Latest Press Releases

April 30, 2025
Pietak Named Senior Vice President – Controller and Principal Accounting Officer

Lake Shore Savings Bank (the “Bank”) announced that Benjamin Pietak has been named to the position of Senior Vice President – Controller and Principal Accounting Officer. Mr. Pietak joined the Bank as Controller in April of 2023 and has played a key role in streamlining the Bank’s accounting and finance processes.

“Ben has been a valued member of the Lake Shore team since joining back in April 2023, consistently demonstrating accounting and finance expertise and a deep commitment to the organization. We look forward to his continued contributions and leadership of the Bank,” stated Taylor Gilden, CFO and Treasurer.

A Certified Public Accountant in the State of New York, Mr. Pietak earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance as well as his Master of Business Administration in Accounting from Canisius University (College). Additionally, Mr. Pietak is in process of completing the American Bankers Association (“ABA”) Stonier Graduate School of Banking program. Mr. Pietak has been instrumental in enhancing the Bank’s financial reporting, budgeting, and financial planning & analysis used for strategic planning. Prior to joining the Bank, Mr. Pietak worked in the biopharmaceutical industry with a focus on financial reporting and corporate transactions as well as Ernst and Young’s audit practice servicing public and private clients.

Download this press release here.

March 6, 2025
Lake Shore Savings Bank Awards Seven Grants to Local Non-Profit Organizations

Lake Shore Savings Bank is proud to announce that it has awarded more than $14,000 in grants to seven local non-profit organizations throughout Chautauqua and Erie Counties as part of its ongoing Community Reinvestment Grant program.

The following organizations were recipients of the latest round of grant awards:

Arts Services, Inc. of Western New York, Buffalo, NY
C.O.P.E. Foundation 19 Inc., Fredonia, NY
FeedMore WNY, Buffalo, NY
Girl Scouts of Western New York, Jamestown, NY
Grassroots Gardens of Western New York, Buffalo, NY
The Salvation Army, Dunkirk, NY
Seneca Street Community Development Corporation, Buffalo, NY

More detailed information about the Lake Shore Savings Bank Community Reinvestment Grant program, including eligibility requirements and a grant application, can be found at lakeshoresavings.com/putting-people-first.

December 3, 2024
Lake Shore Savings Bank Announces Termination of OCC Consent Order

On December 3, 2024, Lake Shore Savings Bank (“Bank”), the wholly-owned federal savings bank subsidiary of Lake Shore Bancorp, Inc. (“Company”) received termination notice of the Consent Order by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”), the Bank’s primary federal regulator. The Consent Order required the Bank to correct deficiencies related to information technology, security, automated clearing house, audit, management, and Bank Secrecy Act / Anti-Money Laundering. In addition to the termination of the Consent Order, the OCC terminated the “Troubled Condition” status.

“Our primary goal has been remediation of the operational issues identified by our primary regulator,” stated Kim C. Liddell, President, CEO, and Director. “The early lifting of the Consent Order by the OCC reflects the significant and speedy progress our team made. I am proud of the team and their continued focus on serving our customers and communities.”

November 19, 2024
Lake Shore Savings Bank Rated “Outstanding” on Community Reinvestment Act Examination

Lake Shore Savings Bank (the “Bank”) has earned an “Outstanding,” the highest rating possible, on its most recent Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”) performance examination from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) for the period of January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2023. Performance evaluations occur every three years and assess a bank’s record of meeting the credit needs of the entire community, including low and moderate-income neighborhoods.

“Lake Shore Savings Bank is passionately dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the people who live and work in Western New York,” Kim C. Liddell, President, CEO, and Director. “Serving the communities of Western New York is core to our mission, and achieving an “Outstanding” assessment from the OCC exemplifies our commitment to supporting this region.”

Passed in 1977, the Community Reinvestment Act encourages financial institutions to help meet the credit needs of the communities in which they do business, including low and moderate-income neighborhoods.

Detailed information about the Lake Shore Savings Bank Community Reinvestment Grant program, including eligibility requirements and a grant application, can be found at https://www.lakeshoresavings.com/putting-people-first.

July 30, 2024
Lake Shore Savings Bank Awards Nine Grants to Local Non-Profit Organizations

Lake Shore Savings Bank is proud to announce that it has awarded more than $14,000 in grants to nine local non-profit organizations throughout Chautauqua and Erie Counties through its ongoing Community Reinvestment Grant program.

The following organizations were recipients of the latest round of grant awards:

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erie, Niagara and the Southern Tier, Buffalo, NY
Chautauqua County Rural Ministry, Dunkirk, NY
Chautauqua Home Rehabilitation and Improvement Corporation, Mayville, NY
Empty Bowls Project, Fredonia, NY
Housing Opportunities Made Equal, Inc., Buffalo, NY
Infinity Visual and Performing Arts, Inc., Jamestown, NY
Ripley Community Mobile Food Pantry, Ripley, NY
The Salvation Army, Buffalo, NY
The Tool Library, Buffalo, NY

“We strongly believe that community banks should support organizations in the region that focus on improving the lives of our customers, our neighbors, and our families,” said Kim C. Liddell, President, CEO, and Director. “Lake Shore Savings Bank is proud to continue its longstanding tradition of awarding grants to non-profit organizations dedicated to strengthening our community.”

February 22, 2024
Lake Shore Savings Bank Names Brian Keicher Senior Vice President and BSA Officer

Lake Shore Savings Bank announced that Brian Keicher has been named its new Senior Vice President and Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) Officer. With 19 years of experience in BSA compliance, Mr. Keicher specializes in quality assurance, departmental training and procedure development, Financial Crimes Enforcement Network report filings, and exam management and controls. Mr. Keicher earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Hilbert College and his MBA from California State University.

“As we continue to raise the level of talent at Lake Shore Savings, we are pleased to welcome Brian Keicher to our team,” said Kim Liddell, President and CEO. “I’m confident that his leadership background and vast experience will further strengthen the BSA area of the Bank considerably.”

January 22, 2024
Lake Shore Savings Bank Awards More Than $18,000 in Grants to Local Non-Profit Organizations

Lake Shore Savings Bank is proud to announce that the Bank has awarded $18,300 in grants to local non-profit organizations throughout Erie and Chautauqua Counties. The Bank’s Community Reinvestment Committee, composed of four members from the local community, is charged with reviewing all submitted grant applications, and ultimately deciding which non-profits will receive grants (awarded on a semi-annual basis). Employees of Lake Shore Savings Bank do not play a role in the decision-making process.

The following organizations were recipients of the latest round of grant awards:

Grassroots Gardens of Western New York, Buffalo, NY
Upward Design for Life Corporation, Buffalo, NY
CBA Vision Rehabilitation, Jamestown, NY
The Greater Eastside Fields of Dream Block Club Association, Inc., Buffalo, NY
KidsPeace Foster Care & Community Programs, Williamsville, NY
Stitch Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
United Way of Northern Chautauqua County, Dunkirk, NY
Seneca Street Community Development Corporation, Buffalo, NY
Boys & Girls Club of Northern Chautauqua County, Dunkirk, NY
YWCA Jamestown, Jamestown, NY
St. Susan Center, Jamestown, NY

More detailed information about the Community Reinvestment Grants, including frequently asked questions, eligibility requirements, and a grant application, can be found at lakeshoresavings.com/putting-people-first.

December 19, 2023
Lake Shore Savings Bank Receives and Distributes $50,000 in Grant Funding through Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Program

Lake Shore Savings Bank (the “Bank”) is pleased to announce that it has received and distributed $50,000 in funds from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY) Small Business Recovery Grant Program. The FHLBNY made $5 million in grants available to qualifying small businesses and non-profit organizations that are faced with continuing economic challenges due to the current rate environment, inflation, supply-chain constraints, and/or rising energy costs.

Lake Shore Savings Bank, a member of the FHLBNY, recently secured $50,000 in grant funding to distribute to local business and non-profits, and announced today that it would disburse $10,000 grants to the following five community organizations:

The Lakeshore Humane Society (Dunkirk, NY) – a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to helping to protect the welfare of all animals and providing education to the Northern Chautauqua region.
Literacy Volunteers of America Northern Chautauqua County (Fredonia, NY) – a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of residents through free literacy instruction in the form of one-on-one and small group tutoring.
Chautauqua County Rural Ministry (Dunkirk, NY) – a non-profit organization helping to provide the basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter for the less fortunate and those in crisis situations.
Community Inclusion, Inc. (Jamestown, NY) – a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high quality, cost effective, comprehensive primary and preventative healthcare with the goal of reducing health disparities regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.
Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care (Lakewood, NY) – a non-profit organization that provides compassionate, expert end-of-life care to the residents of Chautauqua County, allowing the seriously ill and their families achieve the highest possible quality of life while directing their own treatment.

“As a community bank, Lake Shore Savings is committed to supporting local organizations that strive to improve the lives of our friends and neighbors,” said Kim Liddell, President and CEO. “We are grateful to the FHLBNY for the opportunity to obtain and distribute these grant funds that will make an immediate impact for several important community initiatives.”

December 14, 2023
Lake Shore Savings Bank Names Melissa Sprague Chief Operating Officer

Lake Shore Savings Bank (the “Bank”) announced the promotion of Melissa Sprague to Chief Operating Officer. Prior to today’s announcement, Ms. Sprague served as Operations Manager for Lake Shore Savings enhancing the level the of Bank’s call center service capabilities, operational efficiencies, enterprise training, and quality control.

Ms. Sprague has more than 20 years of experience in the banking industry, having held several different positions in customer service, operations, special projects, and retail branches at multiple financial institutions in the region.

“We are pleased and excited to announce the promotion of Melissa Sprague to Chief Operating Officer,” said Kim Liddell, President and CEO. “She continues to excel as a leader and change agent keenly focused on improving our results and the customer experience.”

November 1, 2023
Lake Shore Bancorp Names Ann Segarra to Board of Directors

Lake Shore Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”), along with its wholly-owned subsidiary, Lake Shore Savings Bank (the “Bank”), and Lake Shore, MHC (the “MHC”), is pleased to announce that Ann Segarra was appointed to the Company’s Board of Directors on October 27, 2023. Ms. Segarra has served as the Unit Business Officer, College of Arts and Science of the University at Buffalo since 2019 and is responsible for the administration of the school’s annual budget.

Ms. Segarra brings more than 35 years of financial services experience to the Lake Shore Savings Board of Directors, including 28 years at Key Bank (as well as predecessor First Niagara Bank and its related subsidiaries), where she worked in various roles including Director of Internal Audit; Vice President of Finance and Investor Relations; Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller; Senior Vice President of Corporate Finance; Senior Vice President and Business Unit CFO of Tech Governance and Financial Performance; and Senior Vice President – Merger and Integration Director. She also served as the Chief Financial Officer for BHS Foodservice Solutions, LLC. Ms. Segarra earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Canisius College and has served as a Board Member for both the First Niagara Foundation and the YWCA of Niagara. She is a Certified Public Accountant and is a member of the American Institute of CPAs and the New York State Society of CPAs.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Ann Segarra to our Board of Directors,” said Kevin Sanvidge, Chairman of the Company. “Ann will strengthen and deepen the Board’s financial services knowledge and brings with her outstanding leadership qualities to help us better serve our customers and community.”

August 2, 2023
Lake Shore Bancorp Appoints Taylor Gilden as Chief Financial Officer; Names Rachel Foley Chief Operating Officer

Lake Shore Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”), its wholly-owned subsidiary, Lake Shore Savings Bank (the “Bank”), and Lake Shore, MHC (the “MHC”), appointed Taylor Gilden as Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) and Treasurer and Rachel Foley as Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) of the Company, the Bank, and the MHC. In these roles, Mr. Gilden will be responsible for the organization’s financial and risk management and reporting while Ms. Foley will be responsible for deposit and retail loan operations. Mr. Gilden and Ms. Foley will work closely together to strengthen and enhance the organization’s finance, operations, and service capabilities. Both appointments were effective August 1, 2023.

“Taylor is a natural leader with great charisma and a deep knowledge of the Banking industry. His expertise in financial management, analytics, and reporting will serve the organization well as we reposition for success,” said Kevin Sanvidge, Chairman of the Company. “We look forward to Rachel’s appointment as COO to add great value to the operations of the organization given her significant institutional and industry knowledge.”

“We are excited to have Taylor join the organization’s executive team with his strategic experience in financial performance, risk management, and mergers and acquisitions. Beyond his impressive credentials, Taylor will be instrumental in leading our Finance team and organization to future success,” said Kim Liddell, President and CEO of the Company. “With decades of combined experience, Taylor and Rachel’s respective appointments will enhance the breadth and depth of our executive team as we look to the future.”

Mr. Gilden joined the Bank in June 2023 as Chief Strategy Officer and brings with him more than a decade of experience in Banking and Finance. Mr. Gilden earned both a Master of Science in Finance and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from American University in Washington, D.C. He was named a Maryland Bankers Association (“MBA”) Emerging Leader Champion in 2020.

Since joining the Bank in 1999, Ms. Foley has held a variety of positions including Controller and most recently served as the MHC, Company, and Bank’s Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. She earned her MBA from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Allegheny College.

June 15, 2023
Lake Shore Savings Bank Helps Fifth Grade Entrepreneur Reach Donation Goal for P.U.N.T. Collaborative

Just one month after setting a goal of raising $1,000 for charity, Casey Middle School Fifth Grader Cameron Hiller had to move his own goalpost. On Saturday, June 10, Lake Shore Savings Bank presented the P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative with a check for $500 on behalf of Cameron and in recognition of his charitable efforts. The donation pushed Cameron past his fundraising goal and motivated him to set a new, lofty goal of $2,500.

Cameron started his own business, “Pencil Headz,” earlier this year, where he designs themed craft pencils and sells them, with the proceeds benefitting the P.U.N.T. Collaborative. While watching the news recently, Lake Shore Savings Bank Regional Sales Manager Christina Schwindler became aware of Cameron’s generosity and was inspired to contact his family.

“It’s not every day that you see a middle school student who is so thoughtful and enterprising,” said Schwindler. “I’m so proud that Lake Shore Savings could help him smash his goal; I know he will have no problem achieving even more.”

Cameron and his mother, Lauren, spent the day at Lake Shore Savings Bank’s East Amherst Branch, where Cameron showed off his craft pencils, acted as an honorary “employee for the day,” and opened a bank account for his business. Cameron’s “workday” ended with a check presentation to Gwen Mysiak, Executive Director of the P.U.N.T. Collaborative. The funds will be used to provide families in Western New York facing pediatric cancer with programs that offer financial, practical, and emotional support from diagnosis to recovery and bereavement.

April 24, 2023
Lake Shore Savings Bank Names Kim C. Liddell President, CEO, and Director to the Board

Lake Shore Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Kim C. Liddell has been named President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director to the Board. Mr. Liddell brings more than 35 years of banking experience to Lake Shore Savings, having most recently served as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of 1880 Bank and Delmarva Bancshares, Inc. in Maryland.

Mr. Liddell earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Business from Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, VA. He attended both the School of Bank Management and the Graduate School of Retail Bank Management at the University of Virginia. Mr. Liddell currently serves as Director of BV Financial and Bay Vanguard Bank and he sits on the Board of Directors of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, where he serves as the Chairman of the Finance Committee, and member of the Credit and Member Services and Housing Committees.

Mr. Liddell began his banking career as a Management Trainee at First Virginia Banks, Inc. in 1984, where he worked his way up to Senior Vice President and Retail Division Sales Manager. He then served as the Senior Vice President of the Retail Division, Business Banking and Marketing Groups at SequoiaBank and the Senior Vice President of the Retail Division, Mortgage Company and Collections Group at Planters Bank before being named Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at Cardinal Financial Corporation and Cardinal Bank in 2004. Mr. Liddell was named Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Cardinal Financial and Cardinal Bank in 2005. In 2010, he was named Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer at 1880 Bank and Delmarva Bancshares, Inc.

Mr. Liddell is a past member the Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond and past member of the Board of Directors of the Maryland Bankers Association.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Kim to the Lake Shore Savings team,” said Kevin M. Sanvidge, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “I am confident that his vast and unique experience in banking will be a great asset to the Bank as we look ahead towards what I know will be a bright future.”

March 7, 2023
Lake Shore Savings Bank Names Adam Dimitri Vice President of Retail Banking

Lake Shore Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Adam Dimitri has been named Vice President of Retail Banking. Mr. Dimitri started his banking career with Lake Shore Savings 18 years ago as a Teller and most recently served as the Regional Sales Officer for the Bank’s Fredonia Branch. He attended Jamestown Community College and the State University of New York at Fredonia, where he earned a degree in Business Administration. In his new capacity, Mr. Dimitri will oversee Retail Banking in Chautauqua and Erie Counties and will be responsible for executing and monitoring a comprehensive sales and leadership program across the entire Retail Banking network.

“As Lake Shore Savings Bank continues to grow, it is important to for us to develop and refine the Bank’s retail products and services to make sure we are addressing the financial needs of our current customers as well as our future ones,” said Daniel Reininga, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited that Adam has accepted this leadership position as he will play a critical role in growing our customer base and keeping Lake Shore Savings Bank on the forefront of rapidly changing trends in the marketplace.”

January 10, 2023
Lake Shore Savings Bank Awards Eight Grants to Local Non-Profit Organizations

Lake Shore Savings Bank is proud to announce that the Bank has awarded $14,980 in grants to eight local non-profit organizations throughout Chautauqua and Erie Counties.

The Bank’s Community Reinvestment Committee, composed of three members from the local community, is charged with reviewing all submitted grant applications, and ultimately deciding which non-profits will receive grants (awarded on a semi-annual basis). Employees of Lake Shore Savings Bank do not play a role in the decision-making process.

The following organizations were recipients of the latest round of grant awards:

Integrity First, Inc., Lakewood, NY
Boys and Girls Club of Northern Chautauqua County, Dunkirk, NY
Breathe Life of WNY, Inc., Brocton, NY
Chautauqua Opportunities for Development, Inc. (CODI), Dunkirk, NY
Grassroots Gardens of WNY, Buffalo, NY
Minerva Free Library, Sherman, NY
Seneca Street Community Development Corporation, Buffalo, NY
Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, Jamestown, NY

“We are very proud to continue the Lake Shore Savings Bank tradition of awarding deserving organizations with funding to support the important work they do in our communities,” said Daniel Reininga, Chief Executive Officer. “To us, Putting People First means more than just serving our customers; it means getting involved with organizations that can really help make a difference in the communities we serve.”

December 22, 2022
Lake Shore Savings Bank President/CEO Announces Plans to Retire in May 2023

Daniel P. Reininga, president and CEO of Lake Shore Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: LSBK), the holding company for Lake Shore Savings Bank, today announced his plans to retire in May 2023 after serving 29 years with the bank, including 12 as CEO.

Reininga, 64, took the helm in 2011 when the bank’s assets were $488 million and grew them to approximately $700 million. His vision to grow the commercial division has had a significant impact on the bank’s financial success. Reininga joined the bank in 1994 as an outside director and was Executive Vice President Chief Operating Officer from 2010-11.

Founded in 1891 in Dunkirk, the community bank focuses its efforts on deposits, businesses and mortgages in Erie and Chautauqua counties. Reininga oversaw an 11-branch network, with 1,900 surcharge-free ATMs across Western New York. The branches include locations in Dunkirk, Fredonia, Westfield, Jamestown, Lakewood, Kenmore-Tonawanda, Depew, Snyder, Hamburg, East Amherst and Orchard Park.

“Dan served the bank with distinction through periods of rapid growth, as well as the aftermath of the Great Recession and through the COVID pandemic,” said Board Chair Kevin M. Sanvidge. “Lake Shore is serving more communities and consumers than ever before, and much of that is due to Dan’s vision, and his team’s execution of his vision.”

The board plans to conduct a national search for a new president and CEO, Sanvidge said.

“I have been privileged to work with extraordinary bankers, as well as board and community members during the last 12 years,” Reininga said. “I will treasure that work, but more so the relationships attached to it. And, above all, I know I am leaving the bank in capable hands as we continue to follow our mission of Putting People First.”

Reininga earned his B.S. in economics from Allegheny College in 1980; received an MBA from the University of South Florida in 1987; and in 2010 gained a graduate degree in banking from the American Bankers Association Stonier National School of Banking in Philadelphia.

After college, he worked for the Talon Zipper Co. in Meadville, PA for five years before getting his MBA. He next joined Dunkirk-based G.H. Graf Realty Corp., Inc. a fourth-generation family business he became president of in 1993. He continues to serve as the real-estate development and property-management company’s board chair. After serving from 1993-2010 as president of Graf and as an independent director at the bank, he joined the bank’s executive management team. At the time, he was vice chair of the Bank’s Board of Directors.

Reininga, who remains as CEO until the company’s annual shareholders meeting in May, served on numerous boards, including the SUNY Fredonia College Foundation and Brooks Memorial Hospital. He is currently a member of the boards of the Gow School, Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center, and the Mikey’s Way Foundation. Reininga is also chairman of the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation’s $10 million capital campaign.

He received multiple awards during his career, including Business First, 40 under 40, 1997; Business First C-Level, 2019; Mikey’s Way Hero, 2013; Fredonia Chamber of Commerce, community service award, 2016; Allegheny Highlands Good Scout Award, 2016 and the City of Dunkirk Community Service Award.

Reininga and his wife Wendy have four children and four grandchildren.

November 29, 2022
Lake Shore Savings Bank Welcomes Robert Cortellucci as Chief Technology Officer

Lake Shore Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Robert Cortellucci has been named the Bank’s new Chief Technology Officer. Mr. Cortellucci brings more than 20 years of experience in Information Technology Management to the company, having worked in several different industries including banking, healthcare, and logistics. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo and is Yellow Belt Certified in Six Sigma. Mr. Cortellucci most recently served as the Manager of Information Technology at FedEx Trade Networks, where he led multiple teams responsible for developing a customs brokerage solution for the company.

“Information technology is and will continue to be a critical part of our business,” said Daniel Reininga, Chief Executive Officer. “As we continue to adapt to increasingly complex systems in the banking industry, we are excited to add Robert’s deep technical background as well as his high-level leadership experience to the team at Lake Shore Savings.”

November 17, 2022
Lake Shore Savings Bank Honors 2022 Women of Influence by Awarding $23,000 in Grants to Non-Profit Organizations

Lake Shore Savings Bank, is proud to announce that the Bank has awarded $23,000 in grants to various non-profit organizations.

In recognition of the 2022 Business First Women of Influence, Lake Shore Savings Bank has offered each honoree the chance to award $1,000 to a non-profit of her choice. The selections are as follows:

Cindy Abbott Letro, Business Manager for the Law Office of Francis M. Letro, selected Kleinhans Music Hall, a hub of culture, music, and education in Western New York since 1940.
Kristin Anderson, Vice President of Finance, Information Technology, and Human Resources for Beechwood Continuing Care, selected the Beechwood Blocher Foundation, which offers enhanced programming for Beechwood Homes skilled nursing facility residents in need.
LaVonne Ansari, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Health Center of Buffalo, selected Masjid Nu’Man, one of the oldest Islamic mosques in Buffalo, serving the Fillmore/Utica Avenue community and working to develop its surrounding neighborhoods.
Courtney Caldwell, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of ShearShare, and Tracy Sendor Woodrow, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at M&T Bank, both selected Buffalo Prep, an organization that that works with private, public, and charter high schools to help underrepresented youth take advantage of a first-rate college preparatory education.
Gail Cefalu, Owner and President of Millennium Construction Inc., selected the FRAXA Research Foundation, an organization dedicated to finding effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Fragile X syndrome, the most common inherited cause of autism and intellectual disabilities.
Kathleen Chiavetta, Chief Operating Officer of Chiavetta’s Catering Service Inc., selected Hearts for the Homeless, an organization that operates a network of donation bins and a thrift store dedicated to clothing and feeding the chronic homeless, poor, and those in need.
Wendy Glauber, General Counsel and Vice President of Human Resources for John W. Danforth Co., selected Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northtowns, an organization that offers recreational, educational, leadership, and life-skills programs to help children become responsible and productive citizens.
Jill Jedlicka, Executive Director of Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, selected Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, an organization that works to improve water quality for Western New Yorkers and improve access to the Niagara River Watershed.
Anne Joynt, Partner at Lipsitz, Ponterio & Comerford LLC, selected the WNY Women’s Foundation, an organization that works to create opportunities for women to improve economic mobility and catalyze change in the community.
Allanna Kelly-Beaton, Vice President of Kelton Enterprises, LLC, selected the Maria M. Love Convalescent Fund, an organization that creates a bridge to independence by providing immediate financial assistance to the people of Erie County with convalescent care needs.
Lisa Ludwig, Executive Director of Shakespeare in Delaware Park, selected Shakespeare in Delaware Park’s Forever Free Endowment Fund, which supports free, high-quality public theatre to enrich, educate, and entertain diverse audiences through the works of William Shakespeare.
Elizabeth Mauro, Chief Executive Officer of Endeavor Health Services, selected Mid-Erie Mental Health Services, Inc., which assists individuals challenged by mental health and substance issues.
Molly Mayers, Senior Vice President and Director of Lending for Cornerstone Community Federal Credit Union, selected Sleep In Heavenly Peace Buffalo, a group of volunteers dedicated to assembling and delivering bunk beds to children and families in need.
Ann McCarthy, Community Volunteer with FeedMore WNY and Secretary of the Independent Health Foundation Board, selected FeedMore WNY, an organization that provides food, friendship, and skills training to neighbors in need throughout Western New York.
Brandye Merriweather, President of Buffalo Urban Development Corporation, selected Confident Girl Mentoring, Inc., an organization dedicated to providing youth with career mentors and career exploration programs.
Francesca Mesiah, Manager of Outreach and Advocacy at Kaleida Health and Executive Director of the Near East and West Side Task Force, selected the Buffalo Branch of the NAACP, which has played an active role in providing free food for hundreds of families in East Buffalo who continue to be impacted by the Jefferson Avenue Tops mass shooting.
Miche Needham, Partner at Lumsden & McCormick LLP, selected the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens Society, Inc., which welcomes more than 100,000 visitors and students into its historic living museum and working farm garden each year.
Lori Quigley, Chairwoman of Seneca Gaming Corporation and Interim President of Medaille University, selected the YWCA of WNY, an organization that hopes to eliminate racism; empower women; and promote peace, justice, and dignity for all through its programs and services.
Ellen Spangenthal, Director of Marketing/Communications at The Summit Center, selected The Summit Center, an organization that helps children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities become more independent.
Patti Stephen, Executive Director of Buffalo Prep, selected The Westminster Economic Development Initiative (WEDI), which runs programs to assist students and entrepreneurs. WEDI will use the funds to help rebuild the West Side Bazaar on Buffalo’s West Side.
Dionne Williamson, President and Founder of Upward Design for Life Corporation, and Andrea Schillaci, Member and Chair of the Business Litigation Department and Secretary to the Board of Hurwitz Fine P.C., both selected Upward Design for Life Corporation, an organization dedicated to restoring hope for people by transforming empty spaces into homes for families in need.

The 2022 Women of Influence honorees were chosen from hundreds of nominations by a selection committee composed of former Women of Influence winners. This year’s selection committee included Lake Shore Savings Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer and Principal Financial Officer Rachel Foley and Member of the Lake Shore Savings Board of Directors Michelle DeBergalis.

“Lake Shore Savings Bank is proud to sponsor the annual Women of Influence Awards; we are honored to highlight the accomplishments and contributions of some of Western New York’s most inspirational leaders,” said Daniel Reininga, Chief Executive Officer. “We are also extremely pleased to continue the tradition of serving our communities by awarding these grants to an incredibly diverse and impactful group of organizations.”

July 25, 2022
Lake Shore Savings Bank Awards $15,000 in Grants to Local Non-Profit Organizations

Lake Shore Savings Bank is proud to announce that the Bank has awarded $15,000 in grants to local non-profit organizations throughout Erie and Chautauqua Counties. The Bank’s Community Reinvestment Committee, composed of four members from the local community, is charged with reviewing all submitted grant applications, and ultimately deciding which non-profits will receive grants (awarded on a semi-annual basis). Employees of Lake Shore Savings Bank do not play a role in the decision-making process.

The following organizations were recipients of the latest round of grant awards:

Women’s Health Broadcast Network, Inc., Buffalo, NY
Winifred Crawford Dibert Boys & Girls Club of Jamestown, NY
The Waterfront Foundation at The Chautauqua Center, Jamestown, NY
The Salvation Army – Buffalo Area Services, Buffalo, NY
The Dunkirk Salvation Army, Dunkirk, NY
KidsPeace Foster Care & Community Programs, Williamsville, NY
Infinity Visual & Performing Arts, Inc., Jamestown, NY
Family Promise of Western New York, Buffalo, NY
United Way of Northern Chautauqua County, Dunkirk, NY

“Lake Shore Savings Bank has always been committed to serving our communities,” said Daniel Reininga, Chief Executive Officer. “We are extremely proud to continue our tradition of awarding deserving organizations with funding to support the important work they do.”

July 21, 2022
Lake Shore Savings Bank Announces 2022 Van Miller Hometown Hero Scholarship Recipients

Lake Shore Savings Bank is proud to announce two recipients of the Van Miller Hometown Hero Scholarship. Dunkirk High School Graduates Samantha Burgos and Scott Korzenski were both awarded up to $8,000 to be used towards higher education expenses for exemplifying the character of the longtime “Voice of the Buffalo Bills” and Dunkirk native, Van Miller.

“We are extremely pleased to award scholarships to these two outstanding Dunkirk High School students,” said Daniel Reininga, Chief Executive Officer. “Both of them have a bright future ahead of them and I know that they will continue to make the Dunkirk Community and the Miller Family proud for years to come.”

To apply for the scholarship, graduating students at Dunkirk High School submitted a written essay about their personal hero and how that hero influenced their lives. Ms. Burgos, who will attend Jamestown Community College for Nursing, wrote about how she was inspired to become a neonatal nurse by the struggles overcome by her brother, who was born two months prematurely. Mr. Korzenski explained how his High School baseball coach, who recovered from a tragic accident when he was a young man, inspired him to work towards a career as a welder.

The Van Miller Hometown Hero Scholarship Fund was established at the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation in 2008. Contributions from Van and Gloria Miller, as well as proceeds from the annual Van Miller Hometown Hero Memorial Golf Tournament, have allowed nearly $50,000 to be awarded to Dunkirk High School graduates over the last 13 years. Lake Shore Savings Bank is extremely grateful for the generous and continued support of the many area golfers, sponsors, and volunteers from the community who made this year’s tournament a success. Lake Shore Savings Bank has served as the presenting sponsor of the tournament since its inception in 2008.

Next year’s tournament will take place at Shorewood Country Club in Dunkirk on June 9, 2023.

June 29, 2022
Lake Shore Savings Welcomes Tamara Bellanti as Senior Vice President of Human Resources

Lake Shore Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Tamara Bellanti, SHRM-CP, has been named the company’s new Senior Vice President of Human Resources. Bellanti brings more than 20 years of experience in Human Resources Management to the bank, having worked at several companies in both Chautauqua and Erie Counties. She studied Business Administration at The State University of New York at Fredonia and is certified by the Society for Human Resource Management. Bellanti most recently served as the Director of Human Resources for KSL Diagnostics in Williamsville, NY, where she was instrumental in quickly growing the company’s staff of phlebotomists and laboratory technicians in order to keep up with the increasing demand for diagnostic testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Energizing our employees is such an important part of what we do at Lake Shore Savings Bank,” said Daniel Reininga, Chief Executive Officer. “Tamara’s vast experience in all aspects of Human Resources will be a great asset to this company as it continues to grow and change, serving the communities of our region and Putting People First.”