LEWISTON – Community volunteer Jessica Golder was surprised with the April Mayoral VIBE Award for being a “Champion of Beautification.”

Arriving at City Hall for what she thought was a meeting, Golder found Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert Sr. and Councilors Robert Reed, Tina Bailey and Denis Theriault waiting to congratulate her.

Each month, Gilbert and Reed present a VIBE Award to a Lewiston volunteer, and Councilors Bailey and Theriault have worked with Golder regarding community beautification outreach.

Gilbert presented her with the April award and said, “Thank you for serving as a champion of beautification in downtown Lewiston. Your enthusiasm, pride and positive action are to be commended. From utilizing a clean-up pushcart to attending Downtown Beautification Committee meetings, to talking one-on-one with neighbors, your energy and commitment to creatively educating others about the importance of giving back to their neighborhoods go hand-in-hand with Lewiston being an All-America City.

“Indeed, individuals like yourself do make a difference, and we are very proud of the example you set for all of us. In addition, we also applaud your volunteer service with the Downtown Community Action Group and as a Complete Count Census 2010 representative.”

Reed presented Golder with a VIBE lapel pin and a lunch gift card.

Nominations for the May award have been extended to Friday, May 15, 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.