One of the master mechanics of the Lowell revitalization, a visionary in his own right when we talk about the extensive Canalway development and the Lowell Summer Music Series—and a real humanitarian when it comes to helping city causes—will receive the 2014 Thomas G. Kelakos Community Spirit Award of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Lowell. Peter Aucella embraced Lowell from the day he started working in the city. He has stayed with the revival project for decades. Peter recently received a top honor from the National Park Service for his outstanding career achievements.

Whether ringing a bell for the Salvation Army on Merrimack Street or narrating his acclaimed Then-and-Now PowerPoint presentation about downtown renovation for a visiting delegation from Europe, Peter exudes determination and optimism that inspire people. He is a professional through and through who has helped insure that the federal funds invested in Lowell have provided maximum yield. While the summer evening concerts at Boarding House Park feature big music stars, there’s another piece of this program—thousands of children attend free performances on summer days when most of us aren’t looking. That’s a lot of kid-joy at Boarding House Park.

The community will gather on Thursday, March 20, 6.30 pm, at Lenzi’s Mill House in Dracut to recognize Peter for what he has done to make Lowell a better place. Here are details about tickets and sponsorships.

For more information, call Bob Howard at 978-459-4836.  See more about the Kiwanis at www.LowellKiwanis.org