Last year, the 2006 winners were selected following eight ballots, of which there was close consideration between Lewiston and another city for the last AAC winning slot--the latter city of which was ultimately chosen.

Following up on their 2006 finalist status, Lewiston was a finalist again this year. Thirteen delegates presented Lewiston's story of resident involvement with the theme of "Community Engagement Has An Address: Lewiston, Maine!"

Councilor Norm Rousseau who said he's "waited for this moment all his life," was overcome with tears when Lewiston was announced as a winner. He proudly noted that Lewiston certainly can be proud of itself, as national judges 3,000 miles away have recognized the many positives about Lewiston. "If national judges can see our successes, surely we can as well. This is an award that is to be shared with every individual who lives, works, and does business in Lewiston."

Deputy City Administrator Phil Nadeau added, "All of us also know that our local & state elected officials over the past few years have made visionary decisions that have played a key role in the Lewiston it is today--an All-America City."

The National Civic League noted that an All-America City is one that is "courageous, visionary, and committed to the future." They are cities whom the NCL recognizes as facing its challenges and responding with a community approach.

(L to R): Front - Bradley Esty, Ashley Morgan, Councilor Norm Rousseau, Phil Nadeau, Luke Jensen (L to R): Back - Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert, Sr., Tim Stretton, Hillary Verrill, Kirsten Walter, Awil Bile, Linda Varrell, Dottie Perham-Whittier, and Azeb Hassan.

Throughout the delegation's stay in Anaheim, much interaction occurred between the attending cities, with delegates learning from one another, amidst rehearsals and meetings. Lewiston's delegation also received a standing ovation from other cities immediately following its presentation, and Hollywood, Florida, will be following up with Lewiston's Youth Advisory Council to adopt U Booze U Looze with their community's teens.

Although Lewiston's AAC application was vast in scope, the three projects that were featured in the on-stage presentation were U Booze U Looze youth-to-youth underage drinking awareness campaign; the 'Take the Money; You've Earned It" campaign focusing on reducing poverty and enhancing financial education community-wide; and Lots to Gardens which sustains 15 urban gardens providing fresh foods for Lewiston residents who face difficulties accessing nutritious foods.

Community Relations Coordinator Dottie Perham-Whittier noted, "We were very proud of last year's application, but this year's application was an easier read with an intensive focus on all the collaborative partnerships and volunteerism that are making a tremendous difference within Lewiston. We strived to give the judges a 'visual' of all that Lewiston residents undertake. Clearly, they saw the picture we painted, and our victory is a testament to each and every resident of Lewiston."

Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert, Sr., accepted the 2007 All-America City Award with other delegates supporting him at the podium. He spoke of the foundation that the group built upon for this year's AAC quest and praised Lewiston's youth delegates.

Perham-Whittier also thanked the National Civic League for "providing an opportunity to let the world know what Lewiston has known all along . . . that it's an All-America City."

Kirsten Walter, Lots to Gardens Director, added "Lewiston's nomination and win as an All-America City demonstrates the power of youth and community action in making the city the best it can be."

Following the announcement, Lewiston delegates shared hugs, tears, and celebrated the new coveted title, a title that has not been claimed by a Maine city in the last 40 years. Auburn was the last Maine city to gain the title in 1967.

The National Civic League is in its 58th year of bestowing All-America City Awards. The organization states that All-America City winners experience heightened national attention, a proven boost for the recruitment of industry, jobs, and investment to an area.

FOR MORE INFO on any Press Releases contact:
Dot Perham-Whittier - Community Relations Coordinator
Lewiston City Hall
784-2951 - Extension 110
dottie@ci.lewiston.me.us