Renovated mini-Mill showcased at Belknap Mill Society annual meeting

LACONIA — The annual meeting of the Belknap Mill Society was held Feb. 19. Along with presenting the organization’s business to members and guests, including a summary of financials and overview of programming, the renovation of the mini-Mill, as seen in recent parades, was unveiled. Peter Ellis, long-time Mill volunteer, devoted countless hours to the effort. The mini-Mill will be on permanent exhibit at the Mill.

New board members Grace McNamara of Lakes Region Public Access, Dirk Nadon of Lakes Media, and Shawna Bentley of Westcott Law were installed. Karen Prior, executive director, shared remarks about the Mill’s progress over the last four years. Allison Ambrose, past board president and outgoing board member was recognized for her dedication and leadership.

The 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to William Nunamacher for his commitment to the Belknap Mill’s award-winning educational program A Day in the Life of Millworker.

The 2019 Volunteer Organization of the Year Award was presented to the Laconia High School Key Club. Club officers Lydia Tucker, Heather Ausevich, Maci Howland, Katie Allen and their advisor, Karen Abraham, accepted the award. Threads of Evolution, an exhibit designed by Lakes Region Community College senior Alan Wolf, and Jared Guilmett of Misiaszek Turpin pllc, open officially at the meeting. The exhibit depicts the journey of the Belknap Mill from 1823 to present day.