This is in response to Robert Macdonald’s letter (June 5). I am offended that someone could be so quick to not want to applaud and participate in the pride and accomplishments of Lewiston. Mr. Macdonald is misinformed. The vacation/junket he refers to in his letter was anything but a vacation, and almost for certain not at the taxpayers’ expense.

The city officials and guests that were part of the All-America City Awards program were selected to represent Lewiston’s rich history and heritage, the success of our economic rebound from the past, the very involved youth leaders and future of our city, and the welcome accomplishment of cultural diversity we all share to make Lewiston a better place to live than any other city in America.

The city officials and Lewiston Youth Advisory Council that put the opportunity together worked very hard to bring a blend of people from businesses, families and community to represent a true picture of all that we are as a city, and to stand proud to be recognized for the history of an All-America City Award that we richly deserve.

Upon arrival in Anaheim, Calif., there was little time for any to take in the sights or sit poolside, as a vacation would suggest. It was a huge responsibility to represent the best that this great city has to offer.

The last time Maine enjoyed an All-America City award was in 1967, when Auburn won that designation.

Nick Knowlton, Lewiston