Laconia Savings Bank is now Bank of New Hampshire!

Laconia Savings Bank is proud to announce that they have changed their name to Bank of New Hampshire. “Laconia Savings Bank was established in 1831, right here in Laconia, the heart of New Hampshire.  Over the past 181 years we have grown into a statewide organization with 21 banking offices throughout the state.  We are very proud of our roots and needed a name that reflects who we have become.” explained K. Mark Primeau, President & CEO.

Laconia Savings Bank began as Meredith Bridge Savings Bank and changed its name to Laconia Savings Bank in 1869.  In 1999, Laconia Savings Bank purchased nine Fleet branches, primarily north and west of Laconia.  Since that time, Laconia Savings Bank has opened two new offices in Concord and offices in Bedford, Dover, Rochester and Manchester.  The bank also acquired two Ocean Bank branches in Antrim and Hillsboro in 2008.  “It is important for our customers and our communities to understand that we are not changing our corporate structure.  We are still a mutual bank and we will not be sold. We are only changing our name.” K. Mark Primeau stated.

A brand equity study was conducted to measure the Bank’s brand awareness in different regions of the state and also the perception of the name Laconia Savings Bank outside of the Lakes Region. The results indicated that the name Laconia Savings Bank can imply that the bank is a “small bank on the lake” and the word “savings” suggests a small retail savings bank.  In some cases, the name prevented consideration with businesses or individuals interested in wealth management products and services.  Laconia Savings Bank, now Bank of New Hampshire, offers full service personal banking, business banking and wealth management products and services.

Bank of New Hampshire customers will not need to take any action as their existing checks and debit cards will continue to work as they always have.  In the coming weeks, customers will see a new, yet similar logo. The Bank has retained the existing logo mark, the color and the tagline, New Hampshire’s Local Bank. Customers will see the same friendly faces, in the same convenient locations with the same products and services. The only thing that is changing is the name. The Bank will not relocate its headquarters outside of Laconia, which is centrally located within the Bank’s 21 offices.

Bank of Hampshire is the oldest and largest independent bank in New Hampshire.  The bank has $1.1 billion dollars in assets yet maintains a community bank culture.  Laconia Savings Bank was named Business of the Year in May 2011 by Business NH Magazine and has been named one of top 20 Best Companies to Work for three times, also by Business NH Magazine. “We believe that our customers are proud to be a part of New Hampshire.  There is a long list of reasons to live here and we are proud to have chosen a name that reflects who we are, The Bank of New Hampshire.  We intend to be here for another 181 years or more!” explains K. Mark Primeau.

Laconia Savings Bank Offers Area Students a Unique Financial Education Experience

Di Martin-Greenwood, Student Program Coordinator for Laconia Savings Bank is teaching Holy Trinity’s Pre-Kindergarten class about the different types of coins, their worth and the importance of saving.

Laconia Savings Bank strongly believes that an early understanding of personal finance can help children develop positive money habits that will carry with them through adulthood. Laconia Savings Bank is offering area students a unique financial education experience through the Teach Children to Save program. These out-of-the-box lessons make learning about money fun for students and allow bankers to bring reality and learning together to help students understand the basic principles of using money wisely.

Teach Children to Save is a national campaign of volunteer bankers who help young people to develop lifelong saving habits. The campaign includes an annual awareness day in April, Teach Children to Save Day; a video contest for teens, Lights, Camera, Save!; and the Teach Children to Save website; www.teachchildrentosave.com.

Since the program began in 1997, bankers have helped millions of students across the nation learn to manage their money more effectively. This year, many will return to the classroom to help fill the money-knowledge gap. For more information on the program, visit www.abaef.com and click on Teach Children to Save.

Laconia Savings Bank Supports the Dover Adult Learning Center

Back: Debra Nichols, Volunteer Auction Coordinator for Dover Adult Learning Center; Deanna Strand, Executive Director for Dover Adult Learning Center; Joe Cicerelli, Board Member for Dover Adult Learning Center Front: Lori Hults, AVP – Dover Office Manager for Laconia Savings Bank; Don Nary, Board President for Dover Adult Learning Center.

Laconia Savings Bank is proud to support the Dover Adult Learning Center with a $1,000 donation towards their 40th Anniversary Celebration and Fundraiser. The Celebration and Fundraiser will be held on Friday, May 11th at the Cocheco Falls Millworks in Dover, NH at 6 pm.

"Laconia Savings Bank's sponsorship of this event will help DALC continue Opening Doors to Opportunity,” stated Deanna Strand, Executive Director of the Dover Adult Learning Center. “By helping us with the cost of food and entertainment for our 40th anniversary celebration, more of the proceeds from the silent auction will go directly to providing literacy services to Strafford County adults.” Founded in 1972 with a vision to help adults learn to read and to complete high school, the Dover Adult Learning Center has been transforming lives in the Strafford County area through education for over 40 years.

For more information on the Dover Adult Learning Center or to get tickets for the Celebration and Fundraiser, call (603)742-1030 or visit them online at www.dalc-online.org.

Karol Smith Joins Laconia Savings Bank’s Retail Lending Team

Laconia Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Karol Smith has joined their team of Retail Lenders as a Mortgage Loan Officer. Karol will be serving the towns of Moultonborough, Center Harbor, Sandwich, Wolfeboro, Tuftonboro, Ossipee, Brookfield, Wakefield, and surrounding communities.

Karol joins Laconia Savings with more than 20 years of banking and finance experience. Her expertise has been in residential lending with extensive knowledge of the New Hampshire real estate market. Her focus is always on doing what works best for the customer and she is well versed in a full range of lending programs including first-time homebuyer programs, relocation homebuyer and vacation/second home buyers market.

A graduate of Bay Path College in Massachusetts, Karol relocated to the Lakes Region of New Hampshire in 1983, where she and her husband currently live. Karol is a long time member of the Lakes Region Board of Realtors and serves on the Affiliates Committee. She also volunteers with many fundraising activities for the Wolfeboro Area Children Center and several local food pantries.

For more information or to contact Karol, call (603)527-3385 (office) or (603)833-1246 (cell) or e-mail her at KSmith@laconiasavings.com.

Laconia Savings Bank Opens in Manchester!

Ashley St. Laurent, Bank Services Representative; Mary Beth White, AVP - Office Manager; Cheryl Whalen, Bank Services Representative; Peter Cwiklinski, Bank Services Representative, Mary Mattson, VP - Commercial Services.

Laconia Savings Bank is proud to join the Manchester community by opening a new office located at 705 Hooksett Road. On Monday, February 6, the new Office opened its doors and welcomed new customers. Stop by between now and February 28, 2012 to enter to win one of several great prizes such as an iPad, 40” TV or a $100 VISA gift card.

Also as part of the Grand Opening, on Friday, February 17, 95.7 WZID will be broadcasting live at the Manchester Office from 11 am – 1 pm. Stop in for lunch and enter to win one of a dozen prizes such as Manchester Monarchs suite tickets, Palace Theatre tickets, local gift certificates and much more that will be drawn throughout the business day.

Visit www.laconiasavings.com/manchester or call the Manchester Office at (603)626-1301 to learn about all of Laconia Savings Bank’s grand opening events, great product specials and raffle prizes.

Stephen Ellis Named One of 2011’s NH Five Star Mortgage Professionals

Laconia Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Stephen Ellis, Mortgage Loan Officer for Laconia Savings Bank has been named one of the 2011 New Hampshire Five Star Mortgage Professionals.

The Five Star Professionals award is given to mortgage professionals rated highest in overall satisfaction by clients, peers and industry experts. The 2011 New Hampshire Five Star Mortgage Professionals is a select group, representing less than 3% of mortgage professionals in the area.

Stephen can be reached at the Laconia Savings Bank Hillsborough Office located at 325 West Main Street and at (603)528-8121 or via e-mail at EllisS@laconiasavings.com.

For more information on the Five Star award, visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.

Laconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.

Laconia Savings Bank Announces Promotions

Tania Baert, AVP – Commercial Banker; Barry Leonard, Jr., SVP – Commercial Banker/Team Leader; Gayle Price, SVP - Director of Human Resources; Susan Dagoumas, AVP – Commercial Banker

Laconia Savings Bank’s mission is not only to exceed their customers’ expectations by providing the finest quality customer service, but also to provide a positive atmosphere for their employees where they can take satisfaction in being a part of the Laconia Savings Bank team. Laconia Savings Bank believes that happy employees are part of what makes happy customers and is proud to announce the following promotions.

Gayle E. Price has been promoted to Senior Vice President – Director of Human Resources. Gayle began her career at Laconia Savings Bank in May of 1984, and then joined the Human Resource Department in 1986. As the Bank and the department experienced steady growth, Gayle’s responsibilities changed enabling her to specialize in each aspect of human resources from staff supervision, payroll & benefits administration, recruiting, human resources compliance, employee relations, training and leadership development. Gayle was elected as Assistant Vice President - Human Resources in 2005, promoted to Vice President in 2007 and in January, 2010 she was promoted to Vice President - Director of Human Resources.

Gayle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Plymouth State College and is a graduate of the Northern New England School of Banking, the New England School of Banking at Williams College, the ABA Graduate School of Human Resource Management and has completed a number of specialized human resource/leadership programs. Gayle currently serves as Human Resources Chairperson and Executive Committee member of the Boys & Girls Club of the Lakes Region, is active with school committees in her community and is a member of several human resource associations.

Barry S. Leonard, Jr. has been promoted to Senior Vice President – Commercial Banker/Team Leader. Barry joined Laconia Savings Bank in February, 2010 as Vice President - Commercial Banker in our Lakes Region market. Barry’s experience in banking includes commercial lending, portfolio management, credit analysis, administration and retail banking.

Barry holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Notre Dame College. He is currently in his second year at the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking. He serves on many community non-profit Boards such as the Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce. He also is very active with the Daniel Webster Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Tania L. Baert has been promoted to Assistant Vice President – Commercial Banker. Joining Laconia Savings Bank in December of 2001, Tania has successfully progressed through many roles within the department to include commercial loan processing, servicing and specializing in the area of commercial loan workout. In 2008 she was promoted to Relationship Manager and then in January, 2009 was elected as Commercial Banking Officer/Workout Specialist.

Tania graduated from the Northern New England School of Banking in October 2009 and the ABA National Commercial Lending School in March 2011. She also has several banking-related certificates from the Center for Financial Training and Risk Management Association including the Risk Management Association Real Estate Lending Academy and Risk Management Association Loan Officer Resident Seminar. She is very active with the Lakes Region Young Professionals, serving on their Steering and Social Committees. Tania is also a Board and Finance Committee member of the Boys & Girls Club of the Lakes Region.

Susan D. Dagoumas has been promoted to Assistant Vice President – Commercial Banker. Susan’s career at Laconia Savings Bank has included experience working in many areas since joining the bank in January, 2001, to include mortgage loan processing, mortgage origination, Residential Mortgage Supervisor, CRA Officer and Commercial Lending Relationship Manager. In January, 2009 she was elected as Commercial Banking Officer.

Susan holds an Associate’s degree in Business Management from Franklin Pierce College and graduated from the Northern New England School of Banking in October of 2005. She also is a graduate of the ABA National Compliance School and in 2010 graduated from the Commercial Lending School. She is currently enrolled in the New England School for Financial Studies at Babson and will graduate in May, 2012. Susan is a Director at Central NH VNA & Hospice and a graduate of the 2011 Leadership Lakes Region class.

Laconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.

Laconia Savings Bank Donates $15,000 to Assist Military Families

Louis Guevin, jr., Executive Vice President - Commercial Services for Laconia Savings Bank; Chaplain Steven Veinotte, Chaplain Emergency Relief Fund Trustee; James Goss, Executive Director – NH Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

Laconia Savings Bank would like to thank its employees and local businesses who donated the 160 items that were auctioned off in this year’s Holiday Auction. The $15,000 in proceeds from the Holiday Auction were donated to the New Hampshire National Guard’s Chaplain Emergency Relief Fund.

The fund was established during Operation Desert Storm when many military families faced financial hardship during the deployment of their loved ones. Any person serving as a member of a military unit located in New Hampshire is eligible to receive support. Monies are used exclusively to assist military members and their families who are experiencing an unexpected financial crisis. In the four years that Laconia Savings Bank has been supporting the NHNG-CERF through their annual auction, the bank has donated more than $50,000 to the fund.

"It's a pretty significant part of our budget," stated Chaplain Steven Veinotte, Trustee for the Chaplain Emergency Relief Fund on Monday morning as he received a giant novelty check from Louis Guevin, jr., Executive Vice President of Commercial Services for Laconia Savings Bank. “This donation gives CERF the flexibility to respond immediately to a serviceman or woman or their family member who is in a dire situation.” Monday's gift, he added, represented about 25 percent of the total donations for 2011. Approximately $50,000 in financial aid was distributed by CERF in 2011.

Guevin, who himself is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, said that “as a community bank with a statewide presence, supporting a program like CERF, helps the broadest range of New Hampshire residents which is reflected in Laconia Savings Bank’s mission.”

For more information or to make a tax-deductible contribution to CERF, write to: CERF, PO Box 3448, Concord NH 03302-3448.

Laconia Savings Bank Prestige Plus Customers Travel to Alaska

Standing in front of the University of Alaska Museum of the North’s most impressive exhibit, an 8 foot, 9 inch brown bear is Ron and Carlene Petell, Valerie Drouin, Senior Vice President - Prestige Plus Manager for Laconia Savings Bank and Carolyn and John Peverly

As part of Laconia Savings Bank’s Prestige Plus Travel Program, bank executives and 52 customers spent 2 weeks exploring Alaska by land and sea.

Valerie Drouin, Senior Vice President - Prestige Plus Manager, stated, “Laconia Savings Bank’s Prestige Plus customers were treated to a trip of a lifetime as they explored the vast and undisturbed regions of Alaska. We combined the best of both land and sea on our unforgettable tour through the pristine wilderness of Alaska.” The scenic motor coach ride through Denali National Park left memorable impressions as they spotted numerous types of wildlife living in their natural habitat, and Prestige Plus members were awe-struck as the ship sailed along the amazing Inside Passage known for its natural beauty.

Some of the trip highlights included: Fairbanks, Stern Wheeler Discovery, Natural History Tour of Denali National Park, Denali Express Dome Rail Car, Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Inside Passage, Vancouver and Seattle.

Drouin remarked, “We plan all of our tours months in advance, and customize them to meet the needs of our valued Prestige Plus customers. She went on to say, “With 22 years of experience in the bank travel industry, our customers know when they sign up for one of our tours, that the quality will be unsurpassed. We plan and arrange these tours as a way to thank our customers for banking with Laconia Savings Bank.”

If you would like to learn more about Laconia Savings Bank’s Prestige Plus program, please call Valerie Drouin, Senior Vice President - Prestige Plus Manager at (603) 527-3207.

Laconia Savings Bank Supports Rochester District VNA

Leslie Simpson, AVP – Rochester Office Manager for Laconia Savings Bank and Linda Hotchkiss, CEO of the Rochester District VNA



Laconia Savings Bank is pleased to announce their support of the Rochester District Visiting Nurse Association (RDVNA) with a $1,000 donation. Leslie Simpson, AVP – Rochester Office Manager for Laconia Savings Bank presented a check to Linda Hotchkiss, CEO of the Rochester District VNA to help support their mission in providing high quality, compassionate, cost-effective home, hospice and community health care services. “RDVNA has served over 2,000 patients in their homes in 2011; this donation along with others received will help defray some of the costs involved in caring for the many un-insured and under-insured that the Rochester District VNA care for every year,” stated Linda Hotchkiss, CEO of the Rochester District VNA.

Since 1913, the Rochester District Visiting Nurse Association has provided quality home health care to the residents of Strafford, Northern Rockingham, Southern Carroll and Belknap Counties. Their skilled and certified services and RN specialists set them apart from other home care providers. Rochester District VNA has once again been named in the top 25% of Home Care Agencies in the United States and for the second year in the top 500 (the only local non-profit in the top 500).

For more information, or to learn how you can make a donation of support to the Rochester District VNA, visit their website at http://www.yourvna.org/ or by phone at (603) 332-1133.

LSB Supports Salvation Army Teddy Bear Masquerade Ball

Candice Hada, Systems Support and Operational Analyst for Laconia Savings Bank; Lindsey Ball, Executive Administrative Assistant for Laconia Savings Bank; Captain Sally Warren, Salvation Army; Mary Ann Foley, member of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary

In conjunction with the Salvation Army each year the employees of Laconia Saving Bank dress teddy bears to brighten the holidays for local children. This year 108 teddy bears were on display enjoying the Holiday Masquerade Ball at Laconia Savings Bank’s 62 Pleasant Street, Laconia office. Each well-appareled teddy bear was chosen and brought home by a very special boy or girl.

The Bank has been involved for more than 19 years in this very worthy project which supports the Salvation Army’s annual “toy basket” distribution project for area children. “This entire event is very rewarding. The employees really enjoy dressing the bears and we enjoy creating the display and interacting with the children when they come in to choose their bear. We feel lucky to work for an organization that gives us the opportunity and encourages us to get involved with the community,” stated Lindsey Ball, Executive Administrative Assistant for Laconia Savings Bank and Candice Hada, Systems Support and Operational Analyst for Laconia Savings Bank.

For more information on the Salvation Army of Laconia, call(603)524-1834 or visit www.use.salvationarmy.org/laconia.

Laconia Savings Bank makes $116,000 donation to local United Ways

Mark Primeau, President & CEO of Laconia Savings Bank, is pleased to announce that the bank has donated $116,000 to local United Ways. Demonstrating unmatched commitment, focus and enthusiasm, Laconia Savings Bank employees raised $55,927 increasing their contribution by 14% compared to last year. The $116,000 campaign sets a new high for Laconia Savings Bank. “Year after year, the employees of Laconia Savings Bank remain dedicated to the bank’s mission of supporting New Hampshire communities. Our annual United Way contribution is an outstanding example of that dedication,” stated Primeau.

In addition to employee contributions, the Laconia Savings Bank United Way Committee, consisting of Cindy Bodah, Donna Harris, Candice Carrier, Lindsey Ball, Karen Seymour, Tiffany Benton, Michele Thomas, Maddie Barnaby and Karon Thibault, coordinated fundraisers such as an intranet auction, bake sales and a cutest pet photo contest to raise an additional $3,820. Cindy Bodah, VP - Quality Service and Training and Donna Harris, AVP - Customer Service Center Manager, volunteered to be the campaign co-chairs for the bank. Through creativity and hard work, the employees delivered a record level of funding and employee participation. Jack Terrill, President of the Lakes Region United Way stated, “I would like to congratulate the United Way committee and employees at Laconia Savings Bank. We sincerely appreciate their support. Laconia Savings Bank is a staple in our community and one of the reasons we have had so much success at United Way.”

The United Way mobilizes and invests resources back into the communities with an emphasis on successful children, family stabilization and community engagement.

Laconia Savings Bank Warns Consumers about Phishing Scams

Laconia Savings Bank is warning consumers about the dangers of phishing scams. Phishing is a new twist on an old telemarketing scam that uses email. These criminals send emails to millions of people hoping that even a few will give away valuable personal information.

“Consumer education is the most powerful weapon in the fight against phishing,” says Thomas Garfield, Executive Vice President of Consumer Services for Laconia Savings Bank. “These criminals first steal the identity of a trusted company. Then using that identity they threaten the consumer with dire consequences if they do not act immediately.”

To avoid becoming the victim of a phishing scam, Laconia Savings Bank offers the following tips:

• Never give out your personal or financial information in response to an unsolicited phone call, fax or email, no matter how official it may seem.
• Do not respond to email that may warn of dire consequences. Contact the company to confirm the email's validity using a. telephone number or web address you know to be genuine.
• Check your credit card and bank account statements regularly and look for unauthorized transactions, even small ones. Some thieves hope small transactions will go unnoticed. Report discrepancies immediately.
• When submitting financial information online, look for the padlock or key icon at the bottom of your Internet browser. Most secure internet addresses, though not all, use "https".
• Report suspicious activity to the Internet Crime Complaint Center, a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center.
• If you have responded to an email, contact your bank immediately so they can protect your account and your identity.

Laconia Savings Bank Launches Financial Answer Center

Laconia Savings Bank is pleased to introduce a great new website tool on www.laconiasavings.com. The Financial Answer Center, an education-based system, provides customers with immediate answers to hundreds of financial questions and instantly provides contact information for the person at the bank best suited to assist them.

“At Laconia Savings Bank, we strive to be a financial resource for our customers. In addition to providing traditional bank products and services, we now provide them with the information they need to make informed decisions about their personal finances,” said Mark Primeau, President and CEO of Laconia Savings Bank. “Consumers often need financial guidance in their lives. When our customers need assistance or financial expertise, we want them to know they can turn to us.”

Laconia Savings Bank’s new Financial Answer Center is an extension of the commitment to their customers and their communities and provides articles such as buying and selling a home, cash and debt management, running your business, investing, saving for college, understanding estate taxes and much more. Laconia Savings Bank’s new Financial Answer Center is available at www.laconiasavings.com.

Laconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.

Laconia Savings Bank Celebrates Its Employees

Photo Caption (L-R): Valerie Drouin, SVP – Prestige Plus Manager and Mark Primeau, President & CEO of Laconia Savings Bank.

Gilford, New Hampshire – July 22, 2011 - Laconia Savings Bank understands that happy employees create happy customers. Employees that feel valued and empowered are far more likely to enjoy their jobs and be personally invested in the bank, and in turn provide better customer service. “The most important part of a successful organization is the people who work there. At Laconia Savings Bank, we like to celebrate those who make Laconia Savings Bank a great place to work and a great bank for our customers!” Stated Mark Primeau, President & CEO of Laconia Savings Bank. Each year, Valerie Drouin – SVP, Prestige Plus Manager organizes an Employee Appreciation event for employees and a guest. This year’s event was held at Gunstock Mountain Resort in Gilford, NH and was a Wild West Boots & BBQ theme which over 300 employees and guests attended. “Sheriff” Mark Primeau, President & CEO of Laconia Savings Bank, hosted the event while employees enjoyed chairlift rides to the top of the mountain, hay rides serenaded by Eric Grant, a BBQ dinner, roasted s’mores by the camp fire and danced to Annie and the Orphans.

At the event, thirty-eight employees were honored for a combined 300 years of service to the bank. Bette Prescott, VP-Office Manager of Gilford Lakeshore was recognized for 30 years of service. Bette started as a Loan Servicing Clerk then became a Loan Servicing Supervisor, Loan Operations Officer/Retail Lending, a Customer Service Officer, Assistant Treasurer and then was promoted to Branch Manager of the Gilford Lakeshore office. Bette has completed numerous AIB courses and is a graduate of the Maine/New Hampshire School of Banking. Bette has recently retired after 30 years with Laconia Savings Bank. Three employees were honored for 15 years of service each; Deanna Guyer, David Hart and Kathy Crane. Deanna Guyer began her career at Laconia Savings Bank in 1996 as a switchboard operator and has transferred to the Trust Department and was appointed Trust Account Processor. David Hart started at Laconia Savings Bank in the Auditing department and has been promoted over the years to his current position as Senior Vice President – Director of Audit. Kathy Crane was part of the original team that established the LSB Investment and Trust Services department and is currently Vice President of Trust Services. In addition to these 15 year employees, eleven employees were honored for 10 years of service and twenty-three employees for 5 years of service.

Laconia Saving Bank also recognized eight employees who recently graduated from educational institutions: Barbara Simoneau -Northern New England School of Banking, James Garfield -Northern New England School of Banking, Donna Harris -New England School for Financial Studies, Michael Tutko -New England School for Financial Studies, Lee Beachy - Southern NH University - M.S. Organizational Leadership, Tina Lunderville - White Mountain Community College, Kathy Nelson - Northern New England School of Banking and Jacqueline Vickery - Northern New England School of Banking.

Photos from Laconia Savings Bank’s most recent Employee Appreciation Celebration can be viewed on the bank’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/laconiasavingsbank.

Laconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.

LSB and Mill Falls “Toast” to the Carriage House at Church Landing

Photo Caption (L – R): Lou Guevin, Executive Vice President – Commercial Services for Laconia Savings Bank; Rusty McLear, President & CEO of The Inns & Spa at Mill Falls; Ed Gardner, Vice President of The Inns & Spa at Mill Falls; Roger Gauld, Treasurer & CFO of The Inns & Spa at Mill Falls; Barry Leonard, Vice President – Commercial Lending Officer for Laconia Savings Bank.

Meredith, New Hampshire – July 6, 2011 – Laconia Savings Bank and The Inns & Spa at Mill Falls are celebrating the completion of the Carriage House at Church Landing. The expansion of Church Landing will be completed in several phases to accommodate increased demand for the use of the facility. “Laconia Savings Bank strives to help their customers succeed, we are proud to be the leading financial institution to assist Mill Falls make their vision of Church Landing complete.” stated Lou Guevin, Executive Vice President of Commercial Services for Laconia Savings Bank.

Groups looking to hold their meetings and events in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region will now have a new space to gather in at Church Landing in Meredith. The Inns & Spa at Mill Falls has renovated the covered parking area at the Church Landing property to increase event space. The goal is to offer further options and flexibility to groups that require additional breakout rooms, vendor space and dining areas.

The Carriage House has added 1,700 square feet of meeting space and an expanded lobby area of 955 square feet, with fourteen-foot ceilings. The new facility will offer expansive views of Lake Winnipesaukee.

To discover how Laconia Savings Bank can help you expand your business, contact Lou Guevin, EVP – Commercial Services at 527-3272 or LGuevin@laconiasavings.com.

Laconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.

LSB Employees Named Quality Service Professionals of the Year

Photo Caption (L – R): Lisa Benson, IT Administrative Assistant and Quality Service Professional of the Year for Laconia Savings Bank; Mark Primeau, President & CEO of Laconia Savings Bank; Susan Adams, Investment & Trust Services Registered Sales Assistant and Quality Service Professional of the Year for Laconia Savings Bank.

New Hampshire – June 23, 2011 - Each year, Laconia Savings Bank employees nominate two of their co-workers for the special distinction of Quality Service Professionals of the Year. This year’s winners were Lisa Benson, IT Administrative Assistant and Susan Adams, Investment & Trust Services Registered Sales Assistant.

In making their nominations, employees are asked to consider such factors as interpersonal skills, customer orientation, product & service knowledge, commitment to the team and positive attitude along with consistently providing exceptional quality service to their customers.

Lisa began her career with Laconia Savings Bank on October 10, 2000. She provides a wide variety of secretarial and administrative duties to support the technology department. Lisa has been nominated for this award ten times. Every day, through her actions and professionalism, Lisa demonstrates her commitment to providing the highest level of quality service. She is an exceptional employee and is very deserving of this prestigious award.

Susan began her career with Laconia Savings Bank on April 1, 2002. She has been the foundation of the broker dealer program for eight years. Susan has been nominated for this award six times since 2004 and often has received multiple nominations. Each day, Susan demonstrates her strength as a customer focused individual by coming to work and seeing everything through the eyes of the customer. She is a great asset to Laconia Savings Bank and is very deserving of this prestigious award.

Laconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.

Laconia Savings Bank Celebrates 180 Years

Pictured L to R: Tim Gill, Mortgage Originator, Laconia Savings; Dover Chamber Ambassador Scott Wellington of Liberty Mutual; Dover Chamber Board Member Toby Arkwell of RW Insurance; Dover Chamber Executive Director Molly Hodgson Smith; Laconia Savings Bank Office Manager Leslie Simpson; Chamber Board Member Christine Goodwin of WB Mason; Dover Mayor Scott Myers; Chris MacDonnell, Cash Management VP, Laconia Savings; Jon Shapleigh, Commercial Banker, Laconia Savings; Amy Sharp, Business Banking VP, Laconia Savings; Dover Chamber Board Chair Mike Bolduc of Wyskiel, Boc, Tillinghast & Bolduc.

DOVER, NH — Laconia Savings Bank is currently celebrating 180 years of service to their customers and communities throughout New Hampshire. Over the years, Laconia Savings Bank has grown to become the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. With 19 full service offices across the state and recently announcing two new additions, Manchester and Rochester, Laconia Savings Bank continues to grow and prosper. Laconia Savings Bank is looking forward to serving the families, businesses and communities of New Hampshire for at least another 180 years.

For more information, please visit www.laconiasavings.com.

The Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit association of businesses, professionals, individuals, and organizations working together to advance the economic well-being of its members and the community. For details on Dover Chamber membership and other programs or for a schedule of activities, please call the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce at 603-742-2218, e-mail info@dovernh.org, or visit www.dovernh.org.

Laconia Savings Bank is Joining in the Fight to Prevent Financial Elderly Abuse

New Hampshire – June 14, 2011 - To spotlight June 15th “World Elder Abuse Awareness Day” Laconia Savings Bank is offering tips on how to identify and prevent elder financial abuse.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, seniors throughout the United States lose an estimated $2.6 billion or more annually due to elder financial abuse and exploitation. “Seniors are valued members of our community and it is our responsibility to ensure they live safely and with dignity,” explained Carolyn Peverly, Senior Vice President - Deposit Operations & Administration for Laconia Savings Bank. “They can steer clear of financial abuse by being alert to the signs and knowing who to turn to for help.”

Laconia Savings Bank offers the following tips to our elder consumers:

• Never give your Social Security number, account numbers or other personal financial information over the phone unless you initiated the call.
• Don’t open e-mails from unknown sources, and beware of any notice claiming you have won a lottery.
• Shred receipts, bank statements and unused credit card offers before them away.
• Review your monthly accounts regularly for any unauthorized charges. Report lost or stolen checks immediately.
• Order copies of your credit report once a year to ensure accuracy.
• Lock up your checkbook, account statements and other sensitive information when others will be in your home.
• Do business with companies you know are reputable, or first check their references and credentials. Beware of any home improvement contractor that comes to your door or tries to sell you services over the phone.
• If a stranger needs to send you payment for something, insist on a check for the exact amount. Never accept a check for more and wire the difference back.
• Never let someone pressure you into agreeing to loan terms before you’ve had a chance to review them in writing with a trusted advisor.
• Report any unusual account inquires you receive—whether by phone or e-mail—to your banker, who will take measures to protect your account and notify authorities.
• Carefully choose trustworthy people to act as your agent in all estate-planning matters.
• Talk to your local banker about any financial needs, concerns or questions.

Laconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.

Christopher MacDonnell Joins Laconia Savings Bank’s Cash Management Team

Christopher MacDonnell, Vice President – Cash Management for Laconia Savings Bank

New Hampshire – May 31, 2011 - Laconia Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Christopher MacDonnell has joined their Cash Management team as part of the Commercial department. In his capacity as Vice President of Corporate Cash Management, Christopher works with customers to set up sweep accounts, ACH origination, lock box and electronic/online services.

Christopher joins Laconia Savings Bank with more than 17 years of banking experience.

Christopher is a graduate of the University of Maine with a Bachelors of Arts degree, a graduate of Northern New England School of Banking at the University of New Hampshire and also a graduate of the New England School of Banking at Williams College.

For more information or to contact Christopher, call (603)527-3206 or e-mail him at MacDonnell@laconiasavings.com.

Laconia Savings Bank, founded in 1831, provides deposit, lending and wealth management services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire. With 19 community offices within the state and assets exceeding $1 billion, Laconia Savings Bank is the largest independent bank in New Hampshire. Because Laconia Savings Bank is a mutual organization, it doesn’t answer to stock holders and can focus on the success of its customers, communities and employees. Throughout its 180 year history, Laconia Savings Bank continues to be a strong and stable financial organization. For more information, call 1-800-832-0912 or visit www.laconiasavings.com.