Empire National Bank supports 2011 Ride for Life

Empire National Bank was a sponsor of the recent 2011 Ride For Life. The annual event raises funds and creates ALS awareness. The Ride started at the bank's Port Jefferson Station branch. Bank officials were present to welcome participants and supporters. Ride For Life 2011 officially began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Empire National Bank's president and COO Thomas Buonaiuto. "We admire the courage of the men and women facing ALS and their willingness to participate in an event that informs the public about this incurable disease. It's Empire National's pleasure to support the Ride For Life organization. As a community bank, we assist many local organizations that improve the quality of life for our fellow Long Islanders," said Buonaiuto. Chris Pendergast, founder of Ride For Life and an ALS patient, said he is most appreciative of Empire National's generosity. "For 13 years corporate sponsors, such as Empire National Bank, have made it possible for Ride For Life to fund ALS research and provide patients with innovative programs. Empire National Bank is built upon the foundation of time-honored values, personal service and emerging technologies. The bank has developed a wide array of innovative products and services specifically designed to meet the needs of small to mid-sized privately owned businesses, professional practices and not-for-profit organizations seeking a "neighborhood" banking experience. Headquartered in Islandia, New York, Empire National Bank is led by a management team of experienced bankers who are committed to supporting the Long Island community. For more information, visit empirenb.com. Caption: Empire National Bank's President and Chief Operating Officer Thomas M. Buonaiuto is pictured at the bank's Port Jefferson Station branch cutting a ribbon that officially starts the 2011 Ride For Life. ###