AUBURN – Cindy Larock has a radio that only picks up AM. When she’s in the shower, she listens to WLAM. She loves the music and listening to the familiar sounds of the French language.

“That’s how I started listening to Constance Cote,” Larock said.

Those days are coming to an end. Cote’s weekend French-language program, a local radio staple for decades, will end next month when WLAM 1470 changes to an all-sports format.

The station will be joining the ESPN sports network on Dec. 6, Program Director Sean Baker said Friday. Cote’s last show is scheduled for Dec. 4.

“It’s kind of sad. I guess I’m a little sentimental,” said Larock, a key figure in the local French community. “It’s been part of the Lewiston culture. Connie has been a torch over there for years.”

But by Friday night, few people had heard that there are only weeks left to listen to Cote’s show. For those who have enjoyed the program, the news marks the end of an era.

“It’s very distinctive of Lewiston. It just sort of keeps one in touch with the fact that they live in a community that has this unique cultural heritage,” Larock said. “She’s always been there. She played the type of music that brings people together. Even the younger folks who don’t speak the language will kick up their heels.”

Cote could not be reached for comment Friday night. Whether she planned to seek another forum for her radio show remained a mystery. For her many fans, accessing French programming will not be so simple in the future. Especially if they only get AM.

“I guess I’ll need to get myself a new radio,” Larock said.

– By Mark LaFlamme

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