At the Dec. 20 meeting the Laconia City Council presented the 2025 Deborah Bienaise Memorial Award to Jennifer Connolly, recognizing her long service to children and youth in the Lakes Region.

Mayor St. Clair introduced the award’s history — established 38 years ago in memory of Officer Deborah Bienaise — and described Connolly as an "unsung hero," noting her classroom work at Woodland Heights Elementary School and volunteer service with summer feeding programs and the Greater Lakes Region Children's Auction. Connolly received a commemorative item from the council and was congratulated by members in attendance.

The award committee is composed of a council member, a police department member and a school board member and selects the recipient from community nominations, the mayor explained.

The presentation was brief and ceremonial; no formal council action was required.