A few days ago I received a letter that was sent to patrons and sponsors of the Maine Center for the Arts. This letter stated that a new director would soon be appointed to the MCA.

Apparently no consideration is being given to the reinstatement of Joel Katz to this position. I want to express my deep dismay at this development. Under Joel’s direction, the MCA has developed a national, and international, reputation as a leading university arts center.

For the residents of central and eatern Maine, Joel’s appointment has made a significant difference in the quality of life. I cannot tell you how much it has improved my life, and the lives of many others, to be able to see and hear music, dance and theater of the highest caliber. It is important to emphasize that Joel’s programming has enhanced the lives of people with a wide variety of tastes, from classical music to country and western and from drama to Broadway musicals.

I am very sorry that his reappointment is apparently not being considered. His leaving would be a loss to the university and to the people of Maine. Steven Cohn Orono