LEWISTON – Civic pride boosters will try to return to Anaheim again in June, vying for the title of All America City.

Councilors authorized city staff to begin writing a new application aimed at having the city recognized by the National Civic League.

Lewiston will send a smaller group this year, according to Phil Nadeau. Members of the city’s Youth Advisory Council could consider including Auburn in this year’s application.

“We did well last year, and we heard good things from most of the judges we talked to,” said Allison Beaucage, a Lewiston High School student and member of the Youth Advisory Council.

“It’s a really great opportunity for the city,” said Youth Council member Tim Stretton. “We deserve to win it, so let’s go get it.”

The Youth Advisory Council began working toward the title in 2005 drafting a 20-page application detailing the city’s efforts to welcome new Somali residents, involve the youth in community decisions and bring in new business.

The city learned in April 2006 that it was one of 34 finalists invited to compete for the title. A group of 27, including several city staffers, City Councilors, members of the community and youth, began creating a 20-minute presentation explaining how the city has solved its problems.

They took their show to the competition in Anaheim in June, but didn’t return home with the honors.

The National Civic League, who created the award, say it demonstrates national recognition for hard work and civic pride. The group typically only names 10 cities as All America Cities each year.

Auburn resident Jonathan LaBonte urged the city to include Auburn in this year’s application. Councilors said they would leave that decision up to the youth council members.

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