LEWISTON – The face of Carter J.D. Handy broke out in a smile as his fellow classmates started poking him in the shoulder when Mayor Lionel C. Guay Jr. read the September Mayoral Citation of Excellence in Room V122 at Lewiston High School.

Applause broke out as Handy went to the front of the room to greet the mayor, members of the Lewiston Youth Advisory Council and Head Start representatives.

Guay said, “Carter, you are to be commended for volunteering six weeks this summer at Androscoggin County Head Start and Child Care. Your dedication to fulfilling your duties was unwavering, and your interaction with the children clearly became a priority above other summertime activities.

“In addition, you are to be commended for your desire to continue volunteering at Head Start even though high school classes have resumed for the year.

Young people like you are clearly the type of role models that children need, for you recognize the importance of consistently spending time with children. Best wishes as you pursue a career in early childhood development; you will, indeed, be an asset to the profession.”

Handy was nominated by his sister, Alexis.

Each month, the mayoral citation is given to a Lewiston middle school or high school student, and nominations for the October citation are due no later than Oct. 14.

A one-page nomination must concern an achievement or accomplishment deemed as “above and beyond” or “extraordinary” that has occurred within the last two months. Nominations may be submitted to Guay at 27 Pine St., Lewiston, ME 04240, or via [email protected].

After reviewing nominations, Guay and the youth council will decide on a recipient, and the presentation will be made later in October at the youth’s school.