The senator will address the Shining Stars Celebration on May 5.

LEWISTON – Maine Sen. Margaret “Peggy” Rotundo will be the guest speaker at the seventh annual Shining Stars Celebration on May 5 at the Franco-American Heritage Center.

Rotundo, a long-time youth advocate, is urging residents to celebrate a Lewiston young person by submitting a nomination by April 5.

Rotundo said, “I am thrilled to be part of the seventh annual Lewiston Shining Stars Celebration. This program is a wonderful way to extend appreciation and nurture our young people.

“Our youth are extremely valuable to the future of our community, and the Shining Stars program positively validates who they are and what they are contributing. It is my hope that residents will take a moment to nominate a Lewiston youth.”

As a supporter of youth, Rotundo was on the Lewiston School Committee for eight years, serving four years as chairwoman. She was also the founding member and long-time chairwoman of the Lewiston Aspirations Partnership with L.L. Bean. She is a founding member and serves as president of the Lewiston Education Foundation.

Rotundo has also worked on behalf of young people through involvement with the boards of LA Arts and Head Start, as well as through her employment as director of the Bates College Center for Service Learning. Rotundo has also been recognized at the local, state and national levels for her advocacy on behalf of youth.

The Shining Stars annual celebration highlights Lewiston youth (ages 12 to 18) who are positively impacting/contributing to the community.

Individuals may nominate one or more youth, and parents may nominate their child. A nomination consists of a one-page essay and a photo of the nominated youth (4 x 6 preferred).

Council President Renee Bernier added, “Any Lewiston young person who is doing something positive within our community, from commitment to family to academic achievements, is eligible for consideration as a Lewiston Shining Star. We have numerous young people who fit that description, and this event provides an opportunity for them to shine.”

Nomination essays and photos should be forwarded to Community Relations Coordinator Dottie Perham-Whittier, City Administrator’s Office, Lewiston City Hall, 27 Pine St., Lewiston, ME 04240.