LEWISTON — Elaine DuMais was surprised recently when, during a power line site visit at her home, she was presented the June Mayoral VIBE Award. City Councilor Robert Reed presented DuMais with a certificate signed by himself and Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert Sr., a dining certificate and a VIBE (Volunteers Inspire by Example) lapel pin.

The recognition effort was established by Gilbert and Reed in July 2008 to highlight the efforts of dedicated Lewiston volunteers. Gilbert was unable to attend the June presentation due to a schedule conflict.

Reed said, “Thank you for being instrumental in organizing residents who live along the CMP power line corridor in Lewiston in response to the Maine Power Reliability Program. The group has strived to work cooperatively with CMP to craft what may be a ‘ground-breaking’ proposal for a local solution to mitigate residents’ concerns about CMP’s $1.4 billion electrical transmission line project.”

The proposed power transmission upgrades associated with the project are described by Central Maine Power as the “Maine Power Reliability Program.”

Ideas for July and subsequent months’ VIBE winners may be submitted online at www.ci.lewiston.me.us under “Special Notices,” or nomination forms can be picked up at municipal service windows.