I understand that the Franco Center is changing its name to Riverfront Performing Arts & Events. If that is the case, I am deeply offended.

And whoever is making this decision should be removed from their position.

I am a Lewiston native who spoke only French growing up, and which eventually led to my living in Paris, France, much of my adult life. Speaking French, the language of Moliere, is an integral part of who I am, and I am so grateful to have been given this gift.

We should all be grateful for this, and not just for the language, but also for the history, culture, art, beauty and fine cuisine which goes with it. We should be very proud of our grand heritage, which the Franco Center helps preserve.

Studying French may have a far greater effect on one’s life than actually learning to speak it well ever would. A quick trip to Montreal or Quebec will make this point even clearer.

How can we throw away this great gift, which was centuries in the making? How can we so easily forget who we are? As Le Petit Prince said, “On ne voit bien qu’avec le coeur.”

I urge board members to retain the Franco Center name. It’s in their personal interest, as well as Lewiston’s, and should be considered part of their fiduciary, and sacred, duty as a member of the board.

Normand Saucier, South Bristol