George B. Weaver Jr. Footprints Award

“Dan epitomizes everything that is exemplary about a community volunteer,” remarked Andy Dorn, a longtime friend and colleague of the 2023 Footprints Award winner. “I can’t think of anybody more deserving of this award than Dan Reininga.”

Described by his friends, family, and colleagues as generous, empathetic, honest, faithful, enthusiastic, and genuine, Dan’s impact on the community resonates not only in northern Chautauqua but also throughout Western New York. As the youngest director ever elected to the Board of Lake Shore Savings, Dan brought his unique brand of compassion to the bank, fostering philanthropic partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the region. Following in the footsteps of his parents, Betty Ann and Pete Reininga, Dan has generously contributed his time and finances, both personally and professionally.

Les Friedman, CEO of the Mikey’s Way Foundation, where Dan continues to serve on the Board of Directors, lauded Dan’s unwavering dedication to the causes he champions. “It’s the depth of his commitment,” Les emphasizes. “It’s one thing to write a check or organize a fundraiser, but it’s a whole other level to roll up your sleeves and dig in physically, and that’s what Dan does.”

In addition to his service on the Board of the Mikey’s Way Foundation, Dan has held positions on the Boards of various organizations, including the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation, SUNY Fredonia College Foundation, Brooks Memorial Hospital, the Gow School, Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center, The Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce, and United Way of Northern Chautauqua County, among others. Though recently retired as the President and CEO of Lake Shore Savings, Dan remains active as the Board Chair for his family business, G.H. Graf Realty Corp., Inc. Dan is a dedicated Rotarian and has made substantial contributions to the Rotary International Foundation.

“One word that truly encapsulates my dad is ‘legacy,'” remarked his daughter, Elizabeth Geiger. “Family legacy, community legacy, the work ethic instilled in our family business and at the bank. He’s remarkable. He understands the importance of family and recognizes the value of every individual.”

Steve and Mary Rees, proud residents of Dunkirk, NY, exemplify the spirit of the Footprints Award.

As founding members of Revitalize Dunkirk, a dedicated group committed to enhancing the Dunkirk area for all its residents, Steve and Mary have been unwavering champions of community improvement. Their influence spans decades in northern Chautauqua, leaving an indelible mark on the community through their profound involvement and philanthropic endeavors that extend far beyond the city’s borders.

Rick Davis, Executive Director of the 1891 Fredonia Opera House, lauds the Reeses, stating, “Steve and Mary are just really great people. It’s an honor and really a thrill to know them and be able to count them as friends.”

Beyond their contributions to Revitalize Dunkirk, Steve and Mary have played pivotal roles in revitalizing the 1891 Fredonia Opera House. Their instrumental involvement in its renovation and ongoing consultation efforts have been invaluable. Additionally, they have generously shared their time and resources by hosting guest musicians and performers in their home, further enriching the cultural fabric of the community.

The Reeses’ advocacy extends to initiatives such as the “Complete Streets” project with the Chautauqua County Health Network – Creating Healthy Places. They have also opened their hearts and home as foster parents, as well as hosts for visiting performers and college students. Mary’s service as a VISTA volunteer and Steve’s longstanding volunteerism at Northern Chautauqua Catholic School and Fredonia High School, assisting with theater sets and rigging for productions, further highlights their commitment to community enrichment.

Furthermore, Steve and Mary have dedicated their time to volunteering with organizations such as Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County and actively participated in the Solarize Dunkirk project.

Steve and Mary Rees’ tireless dedication to community betterment, their generosity of spirit, and their steadfast commitment to service make them truly deserving recipients of the Footprints Award.”

“I am a better person because of the Georges.” This sentiment reverberates throughout the conversations among colleagues when discussing Kathy and Peter George, underscoring the profound impact they have had on those around them. Originally sheep farmers who cherished exploring different lakes during their travels, Kathy and Peter found their home in Cassadaga, and since then, they have been integral contributors to the betterment of the community for over a decade.

Their dedication to enhancing the shores of Cassadaga Lake stands as a testament to their commitment to environmental stewardship. Kathy and Peter played pivotal roles in leading efforts to maintain the pristine condition of Cassadaga Lake, making it one of the cleanest lakes in New York State. Their involvement in various local boards, committees, and organizations speaks volumes about their passion for community service. Among their engagements are memberships in the Cassadaga Lakes Association, where Peter served as a Board Member and Lakes Manager, and the Chautauqua County Water Citizens for a Better Cassadaga, where Peter served as Vice President, and Kathy is an active member. Additionally, they have contributed their time and expertise to organizations such as the Cassadaga Food Pantry, the Cassadaga Valley Kiwanis Club, the Mary E. Seymour Memorial Free Library and Cassadaga Branch Association, and the Village of Cassadaga Planning Board, as well as the Lily Dale Environmental Committee.

Beyond their significant involvement, Kathy and Peter have been extraordinarily generous with their resources, making notable contributions, including the donation of 12.4 acres of lakefront property to the Cassadaga Lakes Association and Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy. This act ensures the protection of vital wetlands crucial for maintaining the health of the lakes.

Despite their remarkable contributions, Kathy and Peter prefer to remain humble and out of the spotlight, embodying the true essence of selflessness. Colleagues often describe them in three words: “humble,” a testament to their modesty, even in the face of their extraordinary generosity and dedication to community service.

Kathy and Peter George’s remarkable contributions to our community inspire all who know them, leaving an enduring legacy of generosity, stewardship, and humility.

Peter D. Clark epitomizes the purpose of the Footprints Award.

John “Jay” Warren, a Dunkirk resident and retired educator who nominated Peter for the award, expressed his admiration, stating, “I have always admired Peter for the work he does in the community, his involvement in the community, and, most importantly, the values that we share toward our families and community service.”

A Fredonia attorney, Peter has served as president of the NCCF for four years and vice president for one year. Over more than three decades, he has been a dedicated board member at the Darwin R. Barker Library in Fredonia. Peter’s contributions to our community, whether through donating time to assist a local library or supporting trips for area veterans to Washington, D.C., have positively impacted many individuals and our community as a whole.

Clark’s commitment extends to the Lions Club, where he has held nearly every title. He continues to champion the club’s Breakfast with Santa initiative, transforming it from a fundraiser into a cherished community gathering, with Peter assuming the role of Santa.

As a Vietnam veteran, Peter organized a one-day bus trip for World War II veterans to visit the nation’s capital and view the monuments, demonstrating his dedication to honoring and supporting fellow veterans.

During his tenure as NCCF Board President, Peter spearheaded numerous initiatives to increase community involvement. He advocated for greater engagement with schools and students, leading to the establishment of Service Learning Mini-Grants. He initiated the annual Applebee’s Pancake Breakfast event to support this program and foster community connections. Additionally, Peter started the tradition of having a presence at the Chautauqua County Fair, serving popcorn and getting to know the community.

Reflecting on his approach to life, Peter shares, “You don’t stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing.”

Peter Clark’s remarkable dedication to community service and embodiment of the values espoused by the Footprints Award makes him a truly deserving recipient.

Alona Forbes embodies the true spirit of philanthropy.

Her extensive involvement in numerous organizations speaks volumes about her dedication to serving others. Alona has served on the Brooks Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, where she demonstrated her leadership abilities by serving two terms as president. Additionally, her contributions extend to the Camp Gross Foundation Board and the Dunkirk Public Library Board, where her insights and passion have left a lasting impact. Alona is also an active Blessed Mary Angela Parish member, where she further engages with her community.

In addition to her civic engagements, Alona showcases her artistic talents as a member of several bands, including the Chadwick Bay Buccaneers and the New Horizons Band, adding vibrancy to community events and gatherings.

Alona’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond her time and talents; she has also provided crucial financial support to various organizations. Through the Alona Forbes Donor Advised Fund held at NCCF, she has made significant contributions to Brooks Memorial Hospital, the Camp Gross Foundation, Dunkirk Free Library, Chautauqua County Home, and Blessed Mary Angela Parish, St. Hyacinth Church, ensuring the continued growth and success of these vital community institutions.

Alona Forbes’ unwavering dedication to community service, generosity, and commitment to making a difference makes her a true beacon of hope and inspiration in Dunkirk and beyond.

Alona Forbes passed away on November 29, 2020.

Jim and Marcia Merrins have supported the 1891 Fredonia Opera House, the WNY Chamber Orchestra, and SUNY Fredonia’s Rockefeller Arts Center. They are long-time sustaining members of the NCCF and have participated on committees and as voting members.

Jim served as the Western NY Chamber Orchestra Director and President. He was a member of Rotary International-Fredonia for nine years, eight of which he served as Chair of the Annual Blood Screening. Jim served on the Board of Directors for Fredonia Chamber of Commerce, Lake Shore Hospital, and Health Care Center. While serving in the US Army in Vietnam, he received the Bronze Star and Bronze Star with First Oak Leaf Cluster.

Marcia supports the Girl Scouts of WNY, where she was noted as one of seven “Outstanding Women” in 2004. She also mentors with the Girl Scouts. She served on the Fredonia Central School Board of Education and has chaired several committees, including Chautauqua County Council for Women’s Concerns, Fredonia Cable TV Advisory Board, and Chautauqua County Board of Health (past chair and current member). She also volunteered as a producer for the Community Bulletin Board, Elf Holly for Local Access annual Talk to Santa show, Rockefeller Arts Center, WNY Chamber Orchestra, Chautauqua County League of Women Voters, League of Women Voters of New York State, and League of Women Voters of US.

Wayne, Elaine, and Laurel Hotelling epitomize the essence of community engagement and advocacy, impacting the lives of many.

Their active participation on The Resource Center’s Board of Directors underscores their commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities of individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Hotellings have not only been advocates at the local level but have also extended their efforts to state and national platforms. Their collaboration with Senator Young in developing and proposing legislation to increase employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities exemplifies their proactive approach to advocacy.

In addition to their board involvement, Elaine volunteers at the Ruth Remsen Clothing Center. At the same time, Laurel is a valued member of the Consumer Council for the Mary Andrews Center at The Resource Center.

They are best known for “Laurel Run,” which was named after Wayne and Elaine’s daughter Laurel. This annual event not only raises awareness of children with Down Syndrome but also fosters a sense of community and support for individuals with disabilities and their families.

The Hotelling’s tireless advocacy, compassionate initiatives, and unwavering dedication to community service serve as an inspiration to us all, embodying the true spirit of the Footprints Award.

Laurel Hotelling passed away on November 13, 2017.

Dick and Carmen, renowned for their musical talents, have left an enduring imprint on the community.

For the past 19 years, they have served as sponsors of the beloved Folk in Fredonia Music Series, enriching the region’s cultural landscape. Their membership in the Rockefeller Arts Center at SUNY Fredonia and their role as organizers of monthly contra dances at the Fredonia Grange further highlight their commitment to fostering artistic expression and community engagement.

As founding members and dedicated volunteers of the 1891 Fredonia Opera House, the Gilmans have played a pivotal role in its restoration, contributing to its resurgence as a cultural hub in the community. Their involvement in the Advisory Committee for its capital campaign and their ongoing support through yearly fundraising efforts underscore their dedication to preserving and promoting the arts.

Beyond their musical endeavors, Dick and Carmen have generously shared their talents with countless art organizations and not-for-profit groups throughout Chautauqua County. Their hospitality extends to visiting performers, whom they welcome into their home and provide transportation.

The couple’s impact extends beyond the realm of music and the arts. They have spearheaded efforts to realize Luensman Overview Park in Portland, transforming it into a picturesque nature trail along Lake Erie, further enhancing the region’s natural beauty and recreational offerings.

Dick and Carmen Gilman’s unwavering dedication to the arts, community service, and philanthropy serve as a shining example of the transformative power of generosity and compassion, making them deserving recipients of the Footprints Award.

Sue and Steve Cobb, recipients of the 2013 Footprints Award, have made remarkable contributions to the youth of Fredonia and the community as a whole.

Their invaluable dedication to the Quest Program at Fredonia Middle School has had a profound impact, leading to its expansion into Brocton Central School. The Cobbs devote countless hours to preparing students for outdoor adventures, guiding them through Thursday classes in anticipation of hikes that span from one to three days. Through the Quest program, they nurture the next generation of environmental stewards and community leaders.

In addition to their involvement in Quest, the Cobbs generously devote their time to supporting students participating in Fredonia High School musicals. Steve’s expertise in set design, building, and stage management, coupled with Sue’s talents in props and costume design, not only enhances the quality of productions but also imparts invaluable skills to students.

Beyond their roles in education, Steve has served as the Deputy County Disaster Coordinator, contributed his expertise to the Fredonia Village Board, and served as an EMT with the Fredonia Fire Department.

Ellen Connelly Foley aptly describes Sue and Steve as “wonderful people who do what they do for the love of the community and the world.” Their unwavering dedication to preserving and enhancing the community is a beacon of inspiration, reflecting their deep-seated commitment to making Fredonia a better place for all who call it home.

Steve and Helen Baran’s combined efforts have significantly enriched the Westfield area and beyond, leaving an enduring legacy of service, advocacy, and community betterment.

Steve Baran’s active involvement in various agricultural initiatives has left a lasting impact on the region. His leadership roles in the Growers Cooperative Juice Company, Inc., and as Chairman of the Chautauqua County Farmland Protection Board reflect his commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture. Steve’s contributions extend to the Cornell Cooperative Extension Chautauqua County Board of Directors, the Lake Erie Grape Advisory Committee, and his active membership in the Westfield Rotary Club. For over two decades, Steve’s generous donation of an acre of concord grapes to the Agricultural Department at the Westfield School has provided invaluable hands-on experience to agricultural students, fostering their growth and development in vineyard production and processing.

Helen Baran’s dedication to community health and advocacy is equally commendable. As a trustee on the boards of Westfield Memorial Hospital and Saint Vincent Health System, she plays a vital role in ensuring quality healthcare services for the community. Helen’s leadership extends to her roles as a board member and past chair of the Chautauqua County Health Network, as well as a board member of the NYS Area Health Education Center. Her involvement in the NYS Rural Health Council underscores her commitment to rural health advocacy. Helen’s volunteerism extends to various community initiatives, including the Chautauqua County Charter Revision Committee, the Chautauqua County Planning Board, and leadership of the 4-H Equestrian Club. As Chair of Westfield’s Board of Assessment Review and Rotary Vocational Service and as a member and past President of the Westfield Mayville Rotary Club, Helen continues to make significant contributions to community development and service.

Steve Baran passed away on January 4, 2013.

Richard Anson, a beacon of community service and dedication, exemplifies the true spirit of the Footprints Award through his modesty, humility, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.

As a past Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation (NCCF) board member, Richard played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s mission and impact. His membership in the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce and active involvement in his church, where he held positions on the finance committee and parish council, further underscored his dedication to serving others.

Richard’s philanthropic endeavors extended beyond boardrooms and committees. He was deeply committed to causes close to his heart, including the Boy Scouts and Camp Gross, where he invested his time and resources to support their missions. Through his generosity, Richard established several funds at the NCCF to benefit Camp Gross and numerous other nonprofits, leaving a lasting legacy of support for the causes he believed in. As a founding donor to the NCCF and a member of the NCCF Bequest Society, he demonstrates his enduring commitment to the betterment of his community.

In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Richard was the owner of Lakeside Precision, a respected machine shop in Dunkirk, NY, known for its quality products and services that benefited the community and beyond.

Richard’s steadfast support of the community makes him the ideal choice for the Footprints Award, honoring his tireless dedication and selfless contributions to the betterment of others. His legacy of service will continue to inspire and uplift the community for generations to come.

Richard passed in 2019.

Doug and Ann Manly epitomize the essence of the Footprints Award, embodying a commitment to service, generosity, and community betterment.

The Manlys’ philanthropic efforts have left an indelible mark on the community. They have established the David E. Manly Scholarship Fund, honoring their son, and generously supported the preservation of the historic 1891 Fredonia Opera House.

Ann’s benevolence extends throughout the northern Chautauqua community, as she has generously supported Chautauqua County Rural Ministry and Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County, further enriching the lives of those in need.

Their commitment to education is evident through their generous contributions to SUNY Fredonia via the Fredonia College Foundation, ensuring that future generations of students have access to educational opportunities.

Doug and Ann Manly’s steadfast support and unwavering commitment to their community exemplify the values honored by the Footprints Award. Their enduring legacy of generosity and service continues to positively impact countless lives, leaving a lasting imprint on the fabric of the community and university.

Ann Manly passed away in 2010 and Doug passed in 2022.

Ed Hamlet, a Sheridan, NY resident until he died in 2011, was an active part of the Chautauqua community. A farmer like his father and grandfather before him, Hamlet took great interest in the past, present, and future of the agriculture industry, actively serving on the Extension and Farm Bureau. Hamlet was a Sheridan Volunteer Fire Department member for 52 years, 2 of them serving as chief.

Ed was also active in assisting the Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, and Camp Gross, helping to serve the youth in the community. He currently holds the Edwin Hamlet Fund for Camp Gross and has a fund established in his name by his son to support the Sheridan Memorial Field.

Hamlet dedicated his life to serving numerous organizations throughout the county and state. 

Ed passed away in 2011.

Rick embodies a life dedicated to philanthropy, making him a most deserving recipient of the Footprints Award.

Johnson has spent most of his life residing in Chautauqua County alongside his wife, Michele. As one of the six original board members who formed the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation in 1986, Johnson has consistently prioritized giving back to the community. He played a pivotal role in refurbishing the 1891 Fredonia Opera House. He served as chair of the hospital board at Brooks Memorial Hospital from 1999 until 2004, in addition to being the inaugural president of NCCF.

Rick and his wife are esteemed members of the Bequest Society of the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation and have established endowment funds at the NCCF and Fredonia College Foundation.

Dr. Donald Eno, a retired veterinarian from Westfield’s Animal Hospital, exemplifies the core values of the Footprints Award: service and philanthropy.

Dr. Eno has earned the respect and admiration of fellow community members for his ability to turn difficulties into opportunities to benefit the common good. His philanthropic endeavors have had a lasting effect on the Patterson Library in Westfield, NY, where he served as a trustee for over 11 years, as well as the treasurer, chair of the finance committee, and a building committee member. Eno is also a founding member of “The Hands,” a group of retired men who volunteer at the Patterson Library every week.

Eno joined the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation in 1994 and served on the Board of Directors and Grants Committee. Dr. Eno and his wife Marion hold The Brenda Rae Eno Breast Cancer Fund at NCCF in honor of their daughter, who lost her battle with the disease at the young age of 38. The fund lessens the burden of medical bills for individuals facing a possible cancer diagnosis.

In celebration of the NCCF’s 20th anniversary, the Footprints Award was bestowed on the First Elected Board of Directors and those who incorporated the NCCF.

First Elected Board of Directors:

Rocco Doino, Andrew W. Dorn Jr., Richard S. Johnson, John D. Koch, Donald MacPhee, Ann Manly, James H. Mintun Jr., Douglas Newman, Horace Pantano, Malcolm C. Reed, Perry Reininga, George B. Weaver Jr., William M. Wells, and H. K. Williams III.

Founding Members:
Louis P. DiPalma, David J. Doino, Rocco Doino, Andrew W. Dorn Jr., Richard S. Johnson, and George B. Weaver Jr.

Photo of First Elected Board of Directors:
(photo, left to right) Perry Reininga, Jeffery Passafaro (representing the late H.K. Williams II), Virginia Passafaro (representing Malcolm Reed), Horace Pantano, James Koch (representing John Koch), Richard S. Johnson, James H. Mintun Jr., Janet Wells (representing the late William M. Wells), Douglas Newman, George B. Weaver Jr..
Missing from photo: Rocco L. Doino, Andrew W. Dorn Jr., Ann Manly, and Donald MacPhee.

Photo of Founding Members:
(photo, left to right) David J. Doino, Louis P. DiPalma, Rocco R. Doino, Richard S. Johnson, George B. Weaver Jr..
Missing from photo: Andrew W. Dorn Jr.

Jim and Carol Boltz epitomize the qualities of Footprints Award recipients.

Jim, a native of northern Chautauqua County, has been a dedicated volunteer for various organizations, including the 1891 Fredonia Opera House, St. Columban’s on the Lake, Darwin R. Barker Library, NCCF, and the Preservation Society.

Carol, a graduate of Oberlin College’s music program, has demonstrated her commitment to the community through her musical talents and volunteer work. She has served on the Board of Friends of the Barker Historical Museum, been a steering committee member for the Rockefeller Arts Center at SUNY Fredonia, and coordinated the Orchestral Chairs program for the Fredonia Chamber Players.

Together, Jim and Carol have been recognized for their exceptional community dedication. They were recipients of the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award, and in 1997, they received the Fredonia Kiwanis Elder Salute for Volunteerism. Additionally, they were honored with the Hometown Heroes award from DFT Communications in 2003.

Carol Boltz passed away in 2019.

A pioneer in the telecommunications industry, Dr. Robert Maytum is even more renowned for his role as a community philanthropist.

Dr. Maytum’s contributions to the northern Chautauqua region are boundless: spanning from civic to educational to religious organizations, he recognizes the significance of ongoing improvement within our community. Particularly noteworthy is his steadfast support of higher education. As a benefactor of SUNY Fredonia, he has provided assistance to over 200 students through academic scholarships and is honored with a building named after him on the SUNY Fredonia campus.

Thanks to Dr. Maytum’s commitment to learning and his continued philanthropic efforts, students have access to a wealth of knowledge at SUNY Fredonia that they may not have otherwise experienced.

Dr. Maytum passed away in 2005

Dr. Dallas Beal grew up in Newcomersville, Ohio, and earned his B.S. and M.A. from Ohio State University and an Ed.D. from Columbia University’s Teachers College. He served in the Navy from 1944 until 1946 and came to SUNY Fredonia in 1958 to head the Education Department.

Beal became the Director of Education for SUNY Fredonia in 1958 and was promoted to President of the College in 1972, a position he held until 1984. Dr. Beal not only had a considerable impact on SUNY Fredonia during his tenure as president but was also an active community member.

Beal took a particular interest in causes such as the Roger Tory Peterson Institute, the Northern Chautauqua Chamber of Commerce, Brooks Memorial Hospital, WNED, the Salvation Army, and the First United Methodist Church of Fredonia. His impact on the university and the northern Chautauqua community made him an excellent recipient of the Footprints Award.

Dr. Beal passed away in 2002.

*now deceased

The namesake and first recipient of the Footprints Award, George B. Weaver Jr., was a man who set the standards for local philanthropy and left “footprints” for others to follow. Weaver was born in Buffalo in 1917 and came to Fredonia in 1923 when his father purchased the former Fredonia Seed Company. Throughout his life in Fredonia, Weaver was heavily involved in the community. He was the Chairman of the organizing committee that formed the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation and is often referred to as “the father of NCCF.”

Weaver served for many years as Vice Chairman of Brooks Memorial Hospital, was a past Chairman of the United Way, a member of the board of the YMCA, a member of the Kiwanis Club, and the Co-chairman of the building committee when the Fredonia Presbyterian Church was built on Central Avenue. He served on the Darwin R. Barker Library Board of Trustees and had a longtime involvement with many fundraising drives for local charitable and nonprofit organizations.

George B. Weaver Jr. exemplified a lifelong commitment to northern Chautauqua County.

Mr. Weaver passed away in 2008.