We are pleased to announce that the MVSB Fund has awarded a $10,000 grant to Laconia Ice Arena’s “Think Rink for Kids” Capital campaign. With this donation, the Arena is now two-thirds of the way to achieving its fundraising goal of $267,000.
“We are so thankful for this donation and all the support that has been coming through from our community,” said Will Fay, Manager of the Arena. “We have been overwhelmed by the support of citizens and community-oriented businesses, like Meredith Village Savings Bank, in helping sustain this recreational resource.”
The Laconia Ice Arena is entering its “second generation,” during which significant investment will be required in order to continue to operate the facility and maintain its refrigeration system, consisting of miles of tubes laid underneath the ice surface, a large condenser, chiller and several other components. The Laconia Ice Arena’s “Think Rink for Kids” campaign has been established to raise funds to update refrigeration equipment, provide improved parking, and reduce fees for youth and community.
In addition to this capital campaign and regular ice rink use, the Arena has been adding a variety of new events to their calendar to help increase community participation and involvement. On Saturday evenings throughout the winter, the arena hosts “Saturday Night Meltdown” where skaters are entertained by a live DJ, light shows and games. They also look forward to hosting off-season events this year, including the circus (April 18-19) and the New Hampshire Roller Derby (July-TBA).
“Think Rink for Kids” campaign contributions can be made by individual cash donation, corporate sponsorship, grant or matching funds. For more information about this campaign or to contribute, please contact Will Fay at 581-7008 or info@laconiaicearena.com, or visit the arena’s website www.laconiaicearena.com.
MVSB established the Meredith Village Savings Bank Fund in 1997 under the leadership of John Starrett who was then president and CEO of the Bank. Since then, 248 grants totaling more than $971,992 have been awarded to a wide range of environmental, social, educational, and historic projects throughout the Greater Lakes Region and Plymouth areas. Over the years, the Fund has supported literacy programs, after-school programs, environmental monitoring and education, restoration of historic structures, organizations that provide support for individuals and families in challenging circumstances, and equipment that helps save lives. The deadline for consideration for the 2014 grant cycle is October 15, 2014. Applications are available on the Bank’s website (www.mvsb.com) and at all MVSB offices.
