As I’ve grown, my hometown has grown with me.
Editor’s Note: The following essay won first place in the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council’s recent “L-A: It’s Happening Here” scholarship contest.

Ten years ago, I would have had a difficult time choosing something that is hip, cool and fun in L-A. These Twin Cities appeared to be boring and full, with not much to offer. There were not many recreational activities for youth available. But now, all that has drastically altered. Lewiston and Auburn have worked overtime to rebuild and make L-A into a bright and thriving place. It really is a wonderful place to live.

As I have changed and grown, so has L-A. Worn-out, ramshackle buildings are being torn down and new ones are being built in their place; modern, aesthetically pleasing buildings with much to offer. Downtown Lewiston is undergoing a serious facelift without losing its uniqueness and history, like the Uneeda Biscuit sign on Lisbon Street.

Seeing this old, fading display brings a smile to my lips, because it is dripping with culture from a time I never knew, yet yearn to discover. There are many hidden treasures and great things about L-A.

My favorite part of Lewiston-Auburn is its deep appreciation of the arts. The arts are hugely important to me and seeing such a wide variety in L-A is truly wonderful. There are a multitude of shows people can see, from dance shows at Bates College to musicals at The Community Little Theatre to dramatic performances at the Public Theatre. Each theater performs top quality shows that bring laughter and tears to everyone. There was even a wonderful Brahms performance at the Basilica, sponsored by L/A Arts, which I had the privilege of participating in. It was a spectacular top-quality show that Bates College, Edward Little High School, Lewiston High School and the Androscoggin Chamber Singers were all part of.

Another great part of L-A is the Franco-American Heritage Center. It is an amazing place with fabulous acoustics that would make any performance hall jealous. I have been extremely fortunate with the opportunity to perform there twice a year with my choir. Hearing the music resound through the hall, echoing off the beautiful walls gives me shivers each time. L-A is so lucky to have such a beautiful building available to perform in.

It is also very special because it strives at keeping French alive in the L-A area. French is such a large part of our heritage, and it really is great to see such support for our ancestors’ language. French is my native language, so this has an especially important significance to me. The FAHC is one of L-A’s hidden gems that too few people know about.

The last thing that is really fabulous about L-A is its people. Places and buildings and fancy stores may frame a city, but it’s the people who fill it. The men, women and children of Lewiston-Auburn have so much heart and pride for their city. They all work hard to improve this town so that future generations can profit from the changes. L-A should also be extremely proud of its diversity. Yes there have been problems in the past, but each day brings new chances and new friendships. People from all over the world live in L-A, and this is really what makes Lewiston and Auburn so special.

There are French, Irish, Somali, Chinese and hundreds of other cultures represented in these cities. I have met amazing people with different backgrounds and cultures that have helped me develop a better appreciation for their lives. Lewiston High School has even bought 20 flags recently to hang in the cafeteria, representing all the cultures and countries attending LHS, from immigrants to exchange students to even Lewiston natives. It really brings us one step closer to become one people, undivided.

This is what really makes L-A happening. The culture, the arts, and especially the people. I am proud to live here, and hopefully we will continue to grow and change into an even better place. L-A has the heart and it really is starting to shine through. Let’s keep it alive!

Michele Fortier is a student at Lewiston High School.