Salisbury State Celebrates FrenchWeek November 4-10

SALISBURY, MD---Mark Twain once said, "I can speak French, but I can not understand it." A unique opportunity is at hand to better understand the history and culture of the country that has brought the world everything from bouillabaisse to the Bullet train, from the Concorde to the Cannes Film Festival, from Roquefort to Renoir.

In recognition of National French Week, so designated by the American Association of Teachers of French, Salisbury State University's Department of Modern Languages has planned a week-long celebration of the French way of life. From November 4-10, campuswide events are scheduled to heighten high school and college students' awareness of France's rich heritage in particular but the wider community's awareness as well.

"We hope to increase awareness of French language and the country's enormous contributions to our society, in literature and art, mathematics and science," said Dr. Arlene White, associate professor of French at SSU and coordinator of the series of varied events celebrating National French Week locally. Also providing support is Dr. Gerry St. Martin, SSU professor of French.

On Thursday, November 4, a French Dinner will be served in the Bistro at the Commons, SSU's dining hall, from 5-7:30 p.m. Cost is $8.50 for a gourmet meal of salmon, pheasant, steak, quiche, assorted vegetables and desserts. French music will play in the background.

On Friday, November 5, at 7 p.m., Ursula Ehrhardt of the SSU art faculty will present a slide lecture in English on "Paris, Modern Life and Popular Culture in French Impressionist Painting. The presentation in Fulton Hall Room 111 with a reception to follow.

A video Festival in Fulton Hall Room 111 on Sunday, November 7, features L Cage Aux Folles at 7 p.m. and its American counterpart The Birdcage at 9 p.m.. Light refreshments will be served between the videos.

Dr. Becky Emery, director of SSU Career Services, will talk about "French and Careers" on Tuesday, November 9, at 7 p.m. in Holloway Hall Room 119.

The SSU Music Department caps off the week with "An Evening of French Music," vocal and instrumental, on Wednesday, November 10 at 7 p.m. in Caruthers Hall Auditorium.

The general public is cordially invited to all events. Admission is free unless otherwise noted.

For more information please call the SSU Public Relations Office at 410-543-6030.