There’s a friendly face making the rounds at Inter-Lakes Elementary School and she’s earning straight A’s in comfort. Rosie, a yellow Labrador retriever, has quickly become a beloved part of the school community, offering a calming presence for students and staff alike. Whether she’s sitting quietly beside a student, listening attentively during reading time, or simply brightening someone’s day with a wag of her tail, Rosie has a knack for knowing just when she’s needed most. “She just seems to know,” said Robert Nedeau, School Resource Officer, Meredith Police Department. “Rosie brings a sense of calm into any room. Students […]
Archives for 2026
38 Years of Leadership: Moe Lafreniere Retires from MVSB Board of Directors
MVSB has announced the retirement of Maurice “Moe” Lafreniere from its Board of Directors, effective March 31. Lafreniere joined the MVSB Board of Directors in 1988 and has served for 38 years, including time in leadership roles, providing steady guidance that helped shape the Bank’s governance, growth and continued commitment to mutual community banking. In recognition of his many years of dedicated service and lasting contributions, Lafreniere was recognized by MVSB for his leadership and lasting effects on the organization. “Moe’s impact on MVSB and the broader mutual banking organization has been significant,” said Marcus Weeks, MVSB President. “His financial […]
MVSB Celebrates 10 Years Serving the Melvin Village Community
MVSB is celebrating its 10th anniversary serving the Tuftonboro community of Melvin Village. To mark the milestone, community members are invited to stop into the Melvin Village, Wolfeboro or Moultonborough offices in the last week of May for a special treat. Opened in 2016 next to the Melvin Village Post Office, MVSB’s smallest branch has spent the last decade serving neighbors with the personalized, friendly service that makes a big difference for a small community. “Ten years later, this office represents both our commitment to local access and the flexibility of our team,” said Jami Bourdeau, Branch & Business Development […]
Don’t Fall for “You’ve Won a Prize” Calls
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that scammers are calling people at random, claiming they’ve won a prize, sweepstakes, or lottery. These fraudsters often say you must pay a fee, provide bank details, or share personal information to claim your winnings. In reality, legitimate sweepstakes never require payment to receive a prize. Scammers use excitement and urgency to pressure victims into acting quickly, often stealing money or sensitive data in the process. To protect yourself, hang up immediately if someone calls claiming you’ve won a prize you didn’t enter to win. Never send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to claim […]
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Mutual Benefits: Limited-Time Flash Sale
Mother’s Day is fast approaching—an ideal moment to connect with those you cherish. This year, Mutual Benefits members can make the day even brighter by sending an eGift card to a special loved one (or even treat yourself!), with a generous 25% discount from popular brands, Sephora®, Bath & Body Works®, Ulta Beauty®, Macy’s®, and Kohl’s®. Be sure to mark your calendars—this exclusive flash sale starts at 12:00 PM EST on Friday, May 1st, and it’s available only while supplies last. Purchase can me made online at mymutualbenefits.com or using the Mutual Benefits mobile app. Keep in mind that there […]
MVSB Invests in Dismas Home Expansion to Support Women’s Recovery in Rochester
MVSB has purchased $10,000 in tax credits from the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (NHCDFA) to support the Dismas Home of NH. The tax credit funds will assist with remodeling a Rochester facility dedicated to serving justice-involved women with substance use disorder. The renovations will transform the property to include 14 bedrooms, a commercial kitchen, comfortable living and dining areas, clinical and executive office space, as well as outdoor gardening and recreational space. “The expansion of Dismas Home in Rochester is a critical step toward supporting women on their journey to recovery and reintegration,” said Cheryll Andrews, Executive Director […]
Scammers Exploit Global Conflicts to Steal Money and Information
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that scammers are exploiting news about the Iran conflict to trick people into sending money or sharing personal information. These fraudsters may pose as charities, government agencies, or even relatives in distress, using emotional appeals or urgent messages to pressure victims into donating or providing sensitive data. Some scams also spread misinformation through social media or fake news sites to lure people into clicking malicious links. To stay safe, the FTC advises verifying any organization before donating or responding to requests for help. Avoid clicking on links or attachments in unsolicited messages and never […]
MVSB Supports Renewal of Playground at Meeting Place Apartments in Exeter
Residents at Meeting Place Apartments in Exeter will soon benefit from a refreshed and more accessible playground designed to better serve the children and families that call the community home. The project will upgrade the surface area and replace outdated equipment with new play structures and an ADA‑accessible picnic table, creating a safer and more welcoming outdoor space. MVSB is proud to contribute $8,000 to support the playground renewal. “A welcoming playground plays an important role in helping children stay active and giving families a place to gather,” said Kate Weidner, Corporate and Major Gifts Officer at Avesta Housing. “The […]
Watch Out for Debt Relief Scams
When facing financial stress, offers promising quick debt relief can be tempting—but many of these offers are scams. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), dishonest companies often claim they can eliminate or reduce debt for an upfront fee, only to disappear once payment is made. These scammers may use official-sounding names or pressure tactics to gain trust, leaving consumers in worse financial shape. Legitimate debt relief programs never guarantee results or demand payment before providing help. To protect yourself, be cautious of any company that asks for payment before settling debts or instructs you to stop communicating with your […]
Rick Alpers Joins MVSB Board of Directors
MVSB is proud to announce the appointment of Rick Alpers of Bristol, to its Board of Directors. Alpers was voted in at the Bank’s March Board Meeting and he previously served as a Corporator for New Hampshire Mutual Bancorp (NHMB), the share services organization supporting MVSB. Alpers serves as the Member Services Manager for NH Public Risk Management Exchange (Primex3), working closely with member organizations to support their coverage needs, leadership development, and organizational planning. He regularly partners with municipal, school and county officials on risk management strategies, team development, and long-term planning initiatives. Prior to joining Primex3, he served […]
