The October Lewiston Mayoral VIBE Award went to Keith Pray. From left are City Councilor Robert Reed, Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert Sr. and Pray.

Support group leader receives VIBE Award

LEWISTON – Keith Pray became the third recipient of the Lewiston Mayoral Volunteers Inspire By Example (VIBE) Award on Oct. 23.

With members of the Healthy Androscoggin smoking cessation support group that he leads looking on, Pray was presented a certificate and pin by Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert Sr. and Councilor Robert Reed. He also received a restaurant certificate.

Also on hand to commend Pray was Healthy Androscoggin Tobacco Coordinator Sarah Mayberry and Wendy Tardif, former HA colleague.

Gilbert said, “Thank you for your outstanding leadership in encouraging individuals to quit smoking. When you personally stopped smoking through ‘Quit and Win,’ you wanted to ‘give back,’ and what a difference you’ve made. Your support group is a tremendous asset to this community, and your contributions were certainly held in high esteem in 2007 when you were selected as the Healthy Androscoggin Coalition Member of the Year.”

He said, “We also applaud your commitment to providing anti-smoking education to local fifth-graders through the Tar Wars Program. Indeed, the healthy example that you provide for others is one of excellence, and you remind all of us that one person can make a huge impact on the lives of others.”

Pray responded that he was “honored to receive the award and finds it to be very humbling.”

The local volunteer recognition initiative was collaboratively developed by Gilbert and Reed in July to recognize individuals who are examples of selfless civic engagement.

Nominations for the November award are due by no later than Friday, Nov. 7, and the nomination form may be found online at http://www.ci.lewiston.me.us/vibe.htm. Forms are also located at service windows at Lewiston City Hall.