Bay Area Francophile List This Week!

NOTE: The Bay Area Francophile List will not be updated during the month of July. Publication will resume in early August.

July 1, 2006. MALIAN MEGASTAR ABDOULAYE DIABATE performs at Freight & Savage Coffee House. 8pm. $19.50.

July 1, 2006. TOM RIGNEY & FLAMBEAU and ZYDECO FLAMES perform at Little Fox, 2209 Broadway, Redwood City, 650.369.4119. $14; 8pm.

July 1-3, 2006. 9TH ANNUAL SWISS DOG DAY AFTERNOON. July 1 - Fort Mason; July 2 - Fort Mason; July 3 - Golden Gate Park. Featuring Bernese, Entlebucher, Greater Swiss, Appenzeller Mountain Dogs & Saint Bernards. Info: 415.776.8575 or e-mail: swissday@norcalbernese.org or visit http://www.nemda.org or http://www.norcalbernese.org for details.

Through July 2 2006. THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO; Mozart, based on the play by PIERRE CARON DE BEAUMARCHAIS. San Francisco Opera. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Avenue,SF. 415.864.3330 or http://www.sfopera.com for details.

July 2, 2006. D-DAY. Show examines the experiences of men who led the allied invasion of Europe in World War II. KQED TV9. 1pm.

July 2, 2006. GENO DELAFOSE & FRENCH ROCKIN’ BOOGIE perform with REBIRTH BRASS BAND at the Stern Grove Festival, 19th Ave. & Sloat Blvd., SF. Free, 2pm. 415.252.6252 or http://www.sterngrove.org for details.

July 2, 2006. NEW ORLEANS PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND at Robert Mondavi Winery’s 37th Annual Summer Festival. An Independence Day tradition, including fireworks, to kick off the summer festival; benefits the Hurricane Katrina Victims Fund. $55; reserve lawn seats are available for an additional $30 per ticket. A limited number of VIP tickets that include a family style dinner accompanied by Robert Mondavi Napa Valley wines and concert seating are available for $200. $5 handling fee for all orders. 7pm. http://www.robertmondaviwinery.com or 888.769.5299 for information.

July 2, 2006. LIL' BRIAN AND THE ZYDECO TRAVELERS perform at Biscuits and Blues, 401 Mason St., SF. 415.292.BLUES or http://www.biscuitsandblues.com for details $12.50; 8pm.

July 2, 2006. CURLEY TAYLOR AND ZYDECO TROUBLE perform at Eagles Hall, 2305 alameda Avenue, Alameda. 510.285.6285. $15. 5:30pm.

July 3, 2006. THE AMBASSADOR OF FRANCE TO THE UNITED STATES VISITS SAN FRANCISCO. The Ambassador of France to the United States. Event Venue: The Residence of the General Consul of France. You are cordially invited to our next event, Monday, July 3rd. July SiliconFrench event of the year 2006. The Ambassador of France to the United States, his Excellency, Jean-David Levitte, is visiting InterFrench at the residence of the Consul General of France, Mr Desagneaux, July 3rd in the evening. Together with representatives of the French-speaking elite in the world of business, art, policy, education and business, his Excellency, Jean-David Levitte, will lead a discussion in our company on the evolution of French-American relations and reforms that have been newly set up in France. At the end of the evening, together, we will have painted a picture on what joins the French expatriates with the American society. Are we joined by the language, the pleasures of the table, French arts such as cinema, music or literature or simply by our adoration of the French sports teams? What is the invisible link which links all of us and how French cultures and French speaking people developed? This event will be held at the residence of the French Consul in San Francisco. info@interfrench.com or http://www.interfrench.com for details.

July 3, 2006. NEW ORLEANS PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND performs at 1pm at Amoeba Music, 1855 Haight St., SF. 415.831.1200 for details.

July 4, 2006. GREEN FESTIVAL at Sonoma State University, featuring patriotic, Dixieland, mariachi and CAJUN Music to accompany delightful picnics, glorious sunshine, and children with painted faces in a beautiful setting beside the campus lakes. July 4th is a family celebration of America’s musical heritage and diversity – Patriotic, Dixieland, Mariachi and Cajun Music accompany delightful picnics, glorious sunshine, and children with painted faces in a beautiful setting beside the campus lakes. Throughout the afternoon the air is filled with “toe tappin’, hip swayin’, head boppin” rhythms of Dixieland, Mariachi and Cajun music. As the sun begins to set, guest conductor Adam Flatt leads the Santa Rosa Symphony in an extravaganza of patriotic favorites by Sousa, Ives, Key, Gould, Grofe, John Williams and Richard Rodgers. Once the sun goes down, the spectacular fireworks display begins and the day comes to a rousing, sky bursting conclusion with Kate Smith’s legendary “God Bless America”! The July 4th concert sells out quickly every year, so early ticket purchase is always recommended. Box dinners are available. http://greenmusicfestival.sonoma.edu/july4th.htm

July 4, 2006. PRESERVATION JAZZ HALL BAND and BEAUSOLEIL AVEC MICHAEL DOUCET, perform at the Marin County Fair. Preservation Jazz Hall Band is on the program at 2pm and 4pm; Beausoleil avec Michael Doucet will palt at 6pm and 8pm. The fair is open 11am to 11pm, with fireworks nightly 415.499.6800 or http://marinfair.org for details. Adults $13, Children 12 & under, $11.

July 5, 2006. THE FRENCH CELLAR WINE APPRECIATION CLASS: SAUVIGNON BLANCS & CHARDONNAYS. All classes will be held on Wednesday evenings at 7 PM for approximately 2 hours. Classes will be limited to only 16 participants. The cost of classes including wines for tasting, are $50 per person, except for the Deluxe and Champagne classes, which are $80 per person. A selection of French cheeses, pâté and fruit will be served buffet-style for your enjoyment. Reservations will be booked in advance with a credit card and cancellations must be made within 48 hours of each class for a refund. We look forward to you joining with us in sampling the great wine finds of France. À vôtre santé! 32 East Main Street Los Gatos. Tel 408.354.0993 or fax 408.354.2723 or http://www.thefrenchcellar.com or thefrenchcellar@worldnet.att.net

July 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2006. FOUR SWISS FILMS at the Pacific Film Archive in Berkeley. Presented with the support of Pro Helvetia, Arts Council of Switzerland, Swiss Films and the Consulate General of Switzerland. Advance tickets 510.642.5249. Gen admission $8. Memb. / UC Berkeley students $4. UC Berkeley Staff/non UC Berkeley Students $5. On Wednesday, July 5, 7:30pm: STEP ACROSS THE BORDER – Nicolas Humbert, Werner Penzel (Switzerland/Germany, 1990, 90 min.). Experimental musician and Bay Area resident Fred Frith travels around the globe to turn noise into music, with help from John Zorn, Arto Lindsay, Robert Frank, and Jonas Mekas, among many others, in this joyfully anarchic documentary. Chosen by Cahiers du cinéma 2000 as one of the hundred most important movies in film history. Wednesday, July 12, 7:30pm: A TICKLE IN THE HEART – Stefan Schwietert (Germany/Switzerland, 1996, 87 min.). Wednesday, July 19, 7:30pm: OMBRES – Edna Politi (Switzerland, 1997, 104 min.)(Shadows). Discover how contemporary classical music is made in this elegant behind-the-scenes depiction of Swiss composer Heinz Holliger's two-year endeavor to create a musical homage to 1920s outsider artist and musician Louis Soutter. A fascinating glimpse into the creative process. Wednesday, July 26, 7:30: ACCORDION TRIBE. Stefan Schwietert (Switzerland, 2004, 87 min.) http://www.bampfa.berkeley.edu/pfa for details.

July 7, 2006. DESMOND HOEBIG & JEFFREY KAHANE perform DEBUSSY’s SONATA FOR CELLO AND PIANO and more at the 2006 Green Music Festival. Evert B. Person Theater, Sonoma State University, 1801 E. Cotati Avenue, Rohnert Park. http://greenmusicfestival.sonoma.edu/ for details.

July 7 & 8, 2006. VILLAGE IMPORTS - MADE IN FRANCE OPEN WAREHOUSE. Friday, 2pm-6pm and saturday, 8:30am-1:30pm. Visa, MasterCard & Cash only. 211 South Hill Drive, Brisbane, CA 415.526.1120 or http://www.levillage.com/Page.bok?template=sfowevents for more details.

July 8, 2006. MILL VALLEY FRENCH TABLE. 10am-11am at Champagne, next to the Sequoia Theater on Throckmorton. Contact suzanne.toczyski@sonoma.edu for details. S'il fait beau, on est sur la terrasse!

July 9, 2006. LE CERCLE FRANÇAIS DE PETALUMA fête la Coupe du Monde/ France/Corée du Sud/midi/ chez Nadine et Armen (aussi Fathers’ Day). Détails à suivre.

July 9, 2006. MANIF LE JOUR DE LA BASTILLE A GOLDEN GATE PARK. Cette manifestation est sponsorisée par la ville de San Fancisco et aura lieu le dimanche 9 juillet à partir de 13 heures. Un orchestre jouera uniquement de la musique classique française ainsi que les hymnes nationaux. Détails à suivre.

July 10, 2006. DBF: MURIEL MAFFRE, DANSEUSE ETOILE, SAN FRANCISCO BALLET. Muriel Maffre: Principal Dancer, San Francisco Ballet, created, premiered, and performed roles in ballets by artistic Director/choreographer Tomasson, and by Ashton, Balanchine, Bournonville, Forsythe, Morris, Petipa, Ratmansky, Robbins, Tudor and Welch; was Guest artist at Beach Blanket Babylon 20th Anniversary Celebration, 2004; was chosen Best Female Dancer, Critics' Choice in Dance Europe magazine, 2004; won Isadora Duncan Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Individual Performance for her performances during her 1990 and 2002 Repertory Season; Revived Fokine's La Mort du Cygne for SFB's 2002 Season Opening Gala; was the Guest dancer at the 90th Anniversary Celebration of the Ballets Russes, New Orleans, 1999; Starred in the Russian Tour of "Ballet Beyond Borders," June, 1999; Was featured a a guest artist in Michael Tilson Thomas semi staging of Berlioz' Lelio with San Francisco Symphony, 1997; Received special invitation by Mayor Willie Brown of San Francisco to be a featured dancer at the Gala Celebration honoring the U.S. Conference of Mayors, 1997; was a Guest at Berliner Staatsoper Unter den Linden, Berlin, Germany, in Giselle and Swan Lake 1993 and 1994. Depuis 1994, le premier lundi du mois, les francophones de la Baie se réunissent autour d'un buffet accompagné de vins français et d'un invité dont la présentation est ponctuée par les questions de Jean-Louis Gassée et de l'assistance. Pour chacun c'est aussi l'occasion de faire de nouvelles connaissances et d'échanger idées et contacts avec d'autres francophones. Trouvez des infos et inscrivez-vous sur http://www.dbf.net et n'oubliez pas de nous protéger de vos logiciels anti-spam. Les informations que vous donnez à DBF ne sont jamais partagées et ne servent qu'à vous envoyer l'invitation à notre réunion mensuelle. La participation de $30 sera collectée à l'entrée. Les Membres de la Chambre de Commerce Franco-Américaine beneficient d'une réduction de $5 sur la soirée DBF. Ropers, Majeski, Kohn & Bentley (RMKB), 1001 Marshall St, Redwood City. 18h30 - 21h00. Contact: com@faccsf.com. French American Chamber of Commerce, 703 Market Street, Suite 450 San Francisco, CA, 415.442.4717; http://www.faccsf.com.

July 10, 2006. MONTAIGNE ON SELF-ESTEEM, one in the series entitled PHILOSOPHY: A GUIDE TO HAPPINESS. KQED TV9, 11:30pm.

July 10-17, 2006. 8 DAY TOTAL IMMERSION in French, near Toulouse, France. Instructor: Nadine Goodban. Je suis en Californie depuis 40 ans! J'ai enseigné à SF et maintenant à Vallejo/Napa depuis plus de 25 ans. Mes classes pour adultes sont divisées en plusieurs niveaux, durant la journée ou la soirée, en petits groupes ou en classes individuelles. Je retourne en France chaque année et cet été j'organise un atelier de COURS INTENSIFS qui s'annonce très VIVANT. Includes lodging (double-room), breakfast, daily classes, outings to markets, artisans and surroundings, meal preps, etc.. We will have fun and all in French! $950.00. Immediate reservations: nadalang@comcast.net 707.644.3421

July 11, 2006. TINTIN AND I. The Adventures of Tintin comic continues to fascinate decades after its publication. KQED TV9, 11pm.

July 11-22, 2006. LES PERCUSSIONS DE GUINEE perform at the 2006 MENDOCINO MUSIC FESTIVAL’s 20th anniversary celebration. For information and tickets, call 707.937.4041 or visit http://www.mendocinomusic.com

July 12, 2006. JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU: OCEAN ADVENTURES: SHARKS AT RISK. KQED TV9, 8pm.

July 12, 2006. LEONARD PITT reads from WALKS THROUGH LOST PARIS. The English edition of Leonard Pitt’s Paris book makes its official debut next week. The title en Anglais is Walks Through Lost Paris. The publisher, Shoemaker & Hoard, had the vision to include the entire original text, much of which was cut by the French publisher. Now with all the stories and anecdotes this edition is an even better read. City Lights Bookstore, SF. 7pm. leonardp@sbcglobal.net

July 13, 2006. LEONARD PITT reads from WALKS THROUGH LOST PARIS. The English edition of Leonard Pitt’s Paris book makes its official debut next week. The title en Anglais is Walks Through Lost Paris. The publisher, Shoemaker & Hoard, had the vision to include the entire original text, much of which was cut by the French publisher. Now with all the stories and anecdotes this edition is an even better read. Mechanics Institute. 57 Post St. SF. Members free. Public $7. This will be an evening shared with mystery writer Cara Black. Our theme will be A Night in the Marais. leonardp@sbcglobal.net

July 14, 2006. BASTILLE DAY BALL WITH BAGUETTE QUARTETTE, at the International House in Berkeley. Two years ago we had a Bastille Day Waltz Ball with famous French Bistro Band BAGUETTE QUARTETTE. Now that Bastille Day actually falls on a Friday, we are returning BQ with another Ball. BAGUETTE QUARTETTE plays wonderful joyous waltzes that lift the spirit. We are having them include their favorites Javas and Valses Musette, polkas, tangos and French swing... This is a fun event, not to be missed. Very popular last time, with 200+ attending and dancing. "French attitude admired not required!" Waltz Classes from 7 to 9pm. Live Music: 9pm to midnight. Produced by "FRIDAY NIGHT WALTZ" http://www.fridaynightwaltz.com. International House, 2299 Piedmont, Berkeley. $20 at the door (general public); $10 at the door students with picture ID. http://www.baguettequartette.org/

July 14, 2006. VISUAL AID CELEBRATES BASTILLE DAY AT HOTEL DES ARTS! On view: FIREWORKS, a Visual Aid Exhibition of paintings by MARTINE JARDEL. Visual Aid & The Hotel des Arts are delighted to announce a Bastille Day party and fundraiser benefiting Visual Aid’s programs, encouraging artists with life-threatening illnesses to continue their creative work. On this holiday celebrating liberty and the struggle against oppression, the Hotel des Arts salutes Visual Aid -- inviting the public to join them in supporting and empowering artists, whose freedom of expression is a vital cultural treasure. This is the Hotel’s second benefit for Visual Aid, as funds raised at their gala opening night in 2004 were donated to the organization. As DJ Bustamante spins cool French beats, partygoers will enjoy an evening of art, cocktails, wine, light hors d’oeuvres, silent art auction, and a free drawing for fabulous prizes. Bastille Day revelers are encouraged to come by the Hotel des Arts before or after having dinner in San Francisco’s French Quarter. Many of the rooms at the Hotel des Arts have been designed by emerging local artists, who have created unique murals and art integrated into the overall design of the space. Partygoers will have the opportunity to tour the latest Painted Rooms at the hotel, which have been painted floor to ceiling by the artists. Visit www.sfhoteldesarts.com/gallery.htm for a sneak preview. Hotel des Arts, 447 Bush Street (at Grant Ave), San Francisco. For info: 415-777-8242, visaid@visualaid.org 5:30pm-10:00pm.

July 14, 2006. BAL POPULAIRE. Centre Basque. Réservations auprès de Charles Ségalas. Maître de cérémonie: Patrick Patterson. Air France fera le don d’un billet pour deux personnes aller/retour San Francisco/Paris pour le tirage de la tombola. TV5 sera également un des sponsors de la soirée. Invitation nécessaire.

July 14, 2006. LEONARD PITT reads from WALKS THROUGH LOST PARIS. The English edition of Leonard Pitt’s Paris book makes its official debut next week. The title en Anglais is Walks Through Lost Paris. The publisher, Shoemaker & Hoard, had the vision to include the entire original text, much of which was cut by the French publisher. Now with all the stories and anecdotes this edition is an even better read. Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in San Francisco. 425 Market St. 2 to 4 pm. To register call: 415-405-7700. Cost: $25. leonardp@sbcglobal.net

July 14, 2006. AN EVENING OF FRENCH CABARET ~ BASTILLE DAY! Mais Oui! Have a Magnifique Bastille Day! Join us and be transported to Paris for an evening of French Cabaret - Edith Piaf, Mistenguette, Maurice Chevalier, Jacques Brel, Josephine Baker - let their words enchant you! Featuring Moana Diamond, Craig Jessup, Danny Slomoff, Glenn Diamond and Ellen Brooks. 8pm. http://142throckmortontheatre.com/ or 415.383.9600 for details/information.

July 14, 2006. BASTILLE DAY IN SAN FRANCISCO’S FRENCH QUARTER. Thousands of Francophiles jam bars and restaurants in SF's little French Quarter, the alleys north and south of Bush Street near Kearny. Claude Lane, Belden Street, Mark Lane and Harlan Place are usually closed to traffic from 5 p.m. to midnight. Bastille Day marks the anniversary of the French Revolution, which began with a mob storming the Bastille, a political prison in Paris, on July 14, 1789. Venez nombreux!

July 14, 2006. SYLVIE BRAITMAN at BOUCHON in Yountville/Saint Helena. To celebrate Bastille Day, Sylvie Braitman will perform classic FRENCH CABARET numbers at the restaurant Bouchon in Saint Helena/Yountville. http://www.sylviebraitman.com 6534 Washington, Yountville, 707.944.8037 for details.

July 14, 2006. BASTILLE DAY AT THE HOTEL DES ARTS. Come celebrate the French revolution with a mixture of art, cocktails and music. @ Hotel des Arts, San Francisco. Anyone who says they were directed there by the "Chamber of Commerce" gets half off the door admission ($5 instead of $10).Sponsored by the French-American Chamber of Commerce, 703 Market Street, Suite 450, San Francisco, CA 94103, Tel: 415 442 4717 / Fax 415 442 4621.

July 14, 2006. 6TH ANNUAL BASTILLE DAY CELEBRATION with LE JAZZ HOT ~ THE QUARTET OF THE HOT CLUB OF SAN FRANCISCO! Co-sponsored by Paris Through Expatriate Eyes: http://www.paris-expat.com/ . Le Jazz Hot heats up the night with their rousing rendition of French Gypsy Swing led by Paul Mehling who is joined by his talented band on guitars, violin and bass. LJH recreates the music of world famous jazz musician Django Reinhardt and the wildly popular Hot Club of France 1934. Enjoy an evening of fun and fast paced jazz laced with those rich melodic ballads of the past. Vive le JAZZ! French cuisine available throughout the evening at our cafe. Members $15 ; Public $18. 7:30 pm Café opens; 8:00 pm Cabaret Concert.

July 14, 2006. CELEBRATE BASTILLE DAY WITH FRENCH FILMS AND MUSIC, including JOUR OÙ LA TERRE TREMBLA (1906: The Earth Trembled) -- This is one of the best films made about the San Francisco earthquake by a French director and videographer, Eric Sarner (56 min.) France – AND PLEASURE FOR THE PEOPLE; This documentary By Jean-Pierre Thorn tells the story through hip-hop and music of the immigrant Moroccan and African youth in France and the racism that they face. Music by Moh Alileche and friends. (90 min.) France. Location: 1878 Howard St. at 6th St., San Francisco, CA http://1906centennial.org/activities/calendar/?id=355 7pm.

July 14, 2006. BASTILLE DAY WITH THE IRISH! Celebrate Bastille Day at the only major outdoor venue near the French Quarter: at THE IRISH BANK, 10 Mark Lane, SF, 415.788.7152 for details.

July 14, 2006. FLAMENCO GUITARIST RON CHINN celebrates BASTILLE DAY at GOURMET GARDEN TO GO. Chinn will be the featured entertainer along with eighteen visual artists invited to create eighteen pieces of artwork that will be displayed in Gourmet Garden's back room. Each artist will get his or her own fence panel to capture the theme "Coffee with Diego Rivera." http://www.gourmetgardentogo.com for details.

July 14-16 & 22-23, 2006. 5TH SACRAMENTO FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL at the Crest Theatre. The exciting film selection will represent the best of contemporary French cinema including, for the first time in the Festival’s history a North America Premiere, along with many Northern California and Sacramento premieres. Classic masterpieces, outrageous Saturday Midnight movies as well as French and local short films with a “French flavor” will complete the program. Other events will include 2 catered receptions with live music, free breakfasts following the midnight screenings, the display of original works by Sacramento artists in the lobby of the Crest, and a raffle for a chance to win 2 round trip tickets to Paris ! The fabulous Opening Reception will launch the Festival on Friday, July 14th 2006 at 6pm. The reception will include an open bar and live gypsy jazz by LE SWING HOT and will be followed by the North America Premiere of French blockbuster LES BRIGADES DU TIGRE. Film screenings will continue during two weekends. On July 23rd, a Closing Champagne Party, with music and Scopitones by DJ CHRISTOPHE, will follow the closing film, HEADING SOUTH, and put a fabulous end to the 5th Sacramento French Film Festival. All films, except for the midnight movies, will be shown on the big screen of the art deco auditorium of the Crest Theatre. All films are presented in French with English subtitles. Festival passes for the event can be purchased in advance. A popular drawing for first-rate prizes will precede each screening and discussions with experts follow some films. FILM SELECTION: 7 PREMIERES: OPENING FILM North America PREMIERE,Les Brigades du Tigre (The Tiger’s Brigades) by Jérôme Cornuau; La Moustache (The Mustache) by Emmanuel Carrère; Changing Times (Les Temps qui changent) by André Téchiné; Gabrielle by Patrice Chéreau; Travaux (Housewarming) by Brigitte Roüan; Le Petit Lieutenant (The Little Lieutenant) by Xavier Bauvois; CLOSING FILM Heading South (Vers le sud) by Laurent Cantet. 2 MIDNIGHT MOVIES: I Stand Alone (Seul contre tous) & Irreversible both by Gaspard Noé. 4 CLASSICS: Monsieur Hulot’s Holiday (Les Vacances de Monsieur Hulot) by Jacques Tati (Great for the whole family, very few subtitles !); The Two of Us (Le Vieil Homme et l’enfant) by Claude Berri; Hate (La Haine) by Mathieu Kassovitz; Weekend by Jean-Luc Godard. TICKET PRICES: Single ticket: $9 / $8 (for Students, Seniors, Deaf Community, Alliance Française & Club Francais members); Opening Night Pass: $45; Full Pass (includes all screenings & receptions for the 2 weekends): $75; First Weekend Full Pass (includes all screenings 1st weekend & reception) : $55; 2 weekends Film Pass (includes all screenings): $45; 1 weekend Film Pass (all screenings on the weekend of your choice): $30; Closing Night Film & Reception: $12. Call 916.44.CREST or visit http://www.SacramentoFrenchFilmFestival.org for details.

July 15, 2006. PARIS SALON IN SAN FRANCISCO. Join PTEE founder/director Terrance Gelenter, the doyenne of expatriate letters Diane Johnson, and Cara Black for an informal discussion of Paris and books about her. Complimentary wine, cheese, charcuterie and hourly raffles of French goodies-books, CDs and DVDs. 1pm-5pm. Bookstore West Portal. 80 West Portal, San Francisco 415-564-4080. Information: Terrance Gelenter at 415-388-4956 or email terrance@paris-expat.com

July 15, 2006. CERCLE FRANÇAIS DE PETALUMA chez Valerie. Détails à suivre.

July 15, 2006. BASTILLE DAY CELEBRATION. Celebrate France's National Holiday by wearing blue, white, and red (the Tricolor). $10/door (only $5 if you are of French ancestry!) includes dancing to your favorite hits & hors d'oeuvres. LOCATION: Embassy Suites Hotel, Rings Nightclub, 101 McInnis Pkwy, San Rafael 94903 8pm-midnight. http://www.thepartyhotline.com/PartyCalendar.html for details.

July 15, 2006. JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU: OCEAN ADVENTURES: SHARKS AT RISK. KQED TV9, 6pm.

July 15 & 16, 2006. SANTA BARBARA FRENCH FESTIVAL @ Oak Park, Santa Barbara. Over 40 great acts on 3 stages: cancan, folkdance, Edith Piaf, Hot Jazz a la Django Reinhart, African drumming, Caribbean music, accordeons galore, ... Huge Eiffel Tower. Lots for the kids.Sponsored by the French-American Chamber of Commerce, 703 Market Street, Suite 450, San Francisco, CA 94103, Tel: 415 442 4717 / Fax 415 442 4621.

July 16, 2006. PIQUE-NIQUE DE L’ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE DE SANTA ROSA. 5pm to sunset at Ragle Park, Sebastopol, Sonoma County. Bring your favorite food to share. Don’t forget your utensils and a set of boules, if you have them. And of course we will have LA GRANDE TOMBOLA du 14 juillet. Entry to the picnic is $5 per adult, under 18 free. $3 per car fee for parking inside the park. info@afsantarosa.org for details.

July 16, 206. A CONCERT OF FRENCH MUSIC TO CELEBRATE BASTILLE DAY. Celebrating Bastille Day with A Concert of French music by the Golden Gate Park Band @ Botanical Garden, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. 1:00 p.m. Sponsored by the French-American Chamber of Commerce, 703 Market Street, Suite 450, San Francisco, CA 94103, Tel: 415 442 4717 / Fax 415 442 4621.

July 16, 2006. JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU: OCEAN ADVENTURES: SHARKS AT RISK. KQED TV9, 6pm.

July 19, 2006. THE FRENCH CELLAR WINE APPRECIATION CLASS: DELUXE RED BURGUNDIES. All classes will be held on Wednesday evenings at 7 PM for approximately 2 hours. Classes will be limited to only 16 participants. The cost of classes including wines for tasting, are $50 per person, except for the Deluxe and Champagne classes, which are $80 per person. A selection of French cheeses, pâté and fruit will be served buffet-style for your enjoyment. Reservations will be booked in advance with a credit card and cancellations must be made within 48 hours of each class for a refund. We look forward to you joining with us in sampling the great wine finds of France. À vôtre santé! 32 East Main Street Los Gatos. Tel 408.354.0993 or fax 408.354.2723 or http://www.thefrenchcellar.com or thefrenchcellar@worldnet.att.net

July 20, 2006. SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY performs THE ORCHESTRAL SUITE from BIZET’S CARMEN, and more. 415.864.6000 or http://sfsymphony.org for details. 8pm.

July 22, 2006. JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU: OCEAN ADVENTURES: THE GRAY WHALE OBSTACLE COURSE. KQED TV9, 6pm.

July 22-23, 2006. FESTIVAL OF ART & WINE IN DUNCANS MILLS, featuring music by STOMPY JONES with ZIZOO playing CAJUN ZYDECO, and more. Fifteen wineries and eight breweries. Five tastings, $10, with each additional taste for $1. Benefiting the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods. Food, wine, community and the arts. $6-$8 admission; under 12 free. Opens at 10am. 707.824.8717 or http://www.winecountryfestivals.com for details.

July 23, 2006. MUMBO GUMBO performs on the lawn at Rancho Nicasio, On the Town Square, Nicasio. 415.662.2219 or http://www.ranchonicasio.com for details. $12.

July 24, 2006. LEONARD PITT reads from WALKS THROUGH LOST PARIS. The English edition of Leonard Pitt’s Paris book makes its official debut next week. The title en Anglais is Walks Through Lost Paris. The publisher, Shoemaker & Hoard, had the vision to include the entire original text, much of which was cut by the French publisher. Now with all the stories and anecdotes this edition is an even better read. Book Passage in Corte Madera. 51 Tamal Vista Blvd. 7pm. leonardp@sbcglobal.net

July 25, 2006. CLASS OF 2006. In MOROCCO, 60 of the first women trained to be religious leaders in the Arab world are graduating. KQED TV9, 10pm.

July 27, 2006. STATUS ANXIETY with ALAIN DE BOTTON. With the help of philosophers and artists, Alain de Botton examines the origins of status anxiety (part 1, at 9:02pm) and the ingenious ways in which people have overcome their worries about status (part 2, at 10pm). KQED TV9.

July 28, 2006. MANU CHAO, the “Bongo Bong” king, sings in French, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese and English, among other languages, at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley. $29.50. 415.421.8497 or http://www.ticketmaster.com for details.

July 28, 2006. PINK MARTINI will be performing melodies and rhythms from around the world, including romantic FRENCH BALLADS, with the SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY. 415.864.6000 or http://sfsymphony.org for details. 8pm.

July 28-30, 2006. SAN JOSE CHAMP CAR. Organized by the French American Chamber of Commerce. Contact: com@faccsf.com. French American Chamber of Commerce, 703 Market Street, Suite 450 San Francisco, CA, 415.442.4717; http://www.faccsf.com.

July 30, 2006. SWISS INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION. 11am at the Swiss Park in Newark. Info: 510.793.6272 or http://www.swissemb.org/aelpler for details.

July 30, 2006. THE ZYDECO FLAMES performs on the lawn at Rancho Nicasio, On the Town Square, Nicasio. 415.662.2219 or http://www.ranchonicasio.com for details. $12.

Through August 11, 2006. ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE SUMMER CAMPS FOR KIDS. 1345 Bush St., SF. 415.775.7755 or http://www.afsf.com for details.

Through August 26, 2006. FRENCH SUMMER CAMPS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS at The French Class • 500 Sutter Street • Suite 310 • San Francisco, CA 94102. 415.362, 3666 • info@frenchclass.com or DominiqueBremond@aol.com Three age groups: 7 to 10 or 11 to 13 or 14 to 16. Four levels: Complete Beginner • One year of French •Two years of French • Three years of French. Full Day or Three Options: Mornings, 9 to 12, $225 per week (Monday to Friday); Afternoons, 1 to 5, $300 per week (Monday to Friday); Full day 9 to 5, $500 per week (Monday to Friday). 10% off if you pay a week in advance.

Through October 7, 2006. CYRANO DE BERGERAC by EDMOND ROSTAND. Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland, OR. 541.482.4331 or http://www.osfashland.org for details.

SEEKING A FRENCH-SPEAKING MOTHER-HELPER: I need someone to help with the house and kids. My twin boys are 3 years old and my girl is 11 months old .We live in the country 15 minutes north of Santa Rosa ( there is no bus station close by). This is a part-time position. If you are interested please call Cécile at 707 887 8601 or email cecile@derbes.net

SEEKING TEACHER FOR L’ECOLE NOTRE DAME IN SAN FRANCISCO. Je voudrais partager mon poste de prof de francais pour l'annee scolaire prochaine: donc on cherche un francais ou francaise, qui soit prof, avec de l'experience avec les enfants. Contactez: Corinne Brion, cobrion@hotmail.com

SEEKING FRENCH-SPEAKING CHILDCARE. Looking for dedicated, French speaking individual to take care of our little girl that will be born towards end of June 2006 in the McDonald neighborhood of Santa Rosa. The job is full-time in a beautifully French decorated house with formal garden, easy parents to work with, full use of gourmet kitchen and possibility of “logement” depending on the individual. Please contact Najine at 707-571-8461 or via email najine@itsyounutrition.com .

APPLE COMPUTER SEEKS FRENCH SPEAKERS. A new division of Apple Computer, Inc is creating the technologies of tomorrow (confidential of course!). It is lead by a French-speaking executive that would like to share with the InterFrench community 5 open positions for gifted and smart C developers with strong analytical and mathematical background. If you are striving in fast-paced and high-performance environment and you want to be part of a winning team that will affect the future of digital entertainment, do not wait one more second and send us your resume now! Positions open in Silicon Valley and optionally in Paris, France (positions in Paris require cryptology expertise). Jean-Pierre François, Members Coordinator, InterFrench, jpf@interfrench.org or Tel: 408.426.8263.

SEEKING FRENCH-SPEAKING CHILDCAREGIVER. My daughter is 6 months old and I need someone to play with her for me to get chores and errands done. The hours and days are flexible. Anywhere from 8 to 18 hours per week. I live in Northwest Berkeley near the No. Berkeley Bart and the 4th street shopping. Pay negotiable. If you are interested or you know someone who is, please let me know. Pear (510) 486-8214.

SEEKING FRENCH-SPEAKING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER SPECIALIZING IN MEDIA/PRESS RELATIONS. The firm of HUMBLOT-GRANT ALEXANDER is among big 15 recruitment consultants in France. For one of its clients, a top international pharmaceutical company in Lyon, Cabinet HUMBLOT-GRANT ALEXANDER is looking for a Communications Manager specializing in Media/Press Relations for a specific range of the company's products. The person should ideally be American or Canadian with business/management school or communications training, perfectly bilingual (French-English) and bi-cultural. Experience in media/press relations necessary. The person will handle crisis management and must be interested in science. Contact via e-mail and under ref SPFR2: Anne JANTET, HUMBLOT-GRANT ALEXANDER Executive Search, ajantet@humblot.com or call +011.33.4.72.07.47.60

FRENCH LANGUAGE TEACHERS NEEDED IN MONTEREY. Visit the website: http://www.dliflc.edu See Vacancy Announcement FPS-06-001, How to Apply section. 831.242.4403

CALIFORNIA LANGUAGE TEACHERS ASSOCIATION conducts its Placement Information Exchange as a service to members, to schools and school districts (elementary, middle school, high school, and community college) at no charge. The association's role is limited to providing information: to the teachers who are seeking positions, to the schools and school districts which post vacancies. Responsibility for taking further action rests with the recipients of the information. Go to:http://www.clta.net/jobs/index.html for details.

EDJOIN. The Education Job Opportunity Network is a portal to thousands of teaching and other education job openings throughout California. Go to: http://www.edjoin.org/ for information.

ARMY OF SHADOWS (re-release of Jean-Pierre Melville’s 1969 classic). Rafael, San Rafael, 415.454.1222; Balboa, SF, 415.221.8184; Shattuck, Berkeley.

AUTOMNE. American-born director Ra’up McGee debuts with a French noir starring MICHEL AUMONT and IRENE JACOB, the star of RED. Opera Plaza, SF.

THE DA VINCI CODE, much of which is set in Paris and with lots of dialogue in French, now showing in a theater near you. In English and French.

DISTRICT B-13 (Luc Besson). “The most (maybe the only) fun action movie of the summer…” Set in 2010 Paris, with masters of the new French sports craze parkour. Four Star, SF.

ISABELLE HUPPERT: PASSION AND CONTRADICTION continues at the Pacific Film Archive. 2575 Bancroft, Berkeley. 510.642.5249 or http://www.bampfa.berkeley.edu for details.

LEMMING. Charlotte Gainsbourg and Charlotte Rampling star in this French thriller, in which a deceased older woman possesses the soul of a younger woman. Details to follow. Opera Plaza, SF.

Through July 1, 2006. INTERATIVE ABSTRACTION – E PRINT PAINTINGS” New works by Christian de Cambiaire. Public reception for the artist, Saturday, May 20 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Christian de Cambiaire presents his latest works in a long series of radical artistic structures he calls "visual propositions". The work results from the application of a unique computer program, Explorer, following combinatorial algorithms designed by the artist. Each work is completely unique and the electronic file is deleted once the piece is finished. The artist finds his legitimacy once the program runs its course. Evaluating the experimental result, he either rejects or accepts the work globally, with no modification. This does not eliminate the hand of the artist, but displaces it from one creative position to another. Freed from production the artist can devote himself to the assessment of the profusion of what has been produced. To remain true to the logic of computer's operating mode, and to preserve the spontaneity and vivaciousness that it brings about, the image has gone directly from its luminous birth on the computer screen to its definitive material state (digital ink jet prints on plastic sheets), without any intervention at any stage whatsoever of the "hand of the artist". Images from the show can be viewed here: http://newmarkgallery.com/cdc1.html Selected high resolution images can be viewed here: http://newmarkgallery.com/stage/cdc/titles.html. Christian de Cambiaire is a native of Toulouse, France where he continues to live and work. His reputation has remained on the cutting edge of European conceptual and constructivist art throughout his fifty year career. Newmark Gallery San Francisco is located at 251 Post Street, Suite 412 in the Union Square area of San Francisco. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. and by appointment. Please view our website at http://www.newmarkgallery.com for more information and upcoming events.

Through July 2, 2006. SCOTT CHERNIS exhibits photographs of NEW ORLEANS musicians affected by Hurricane Katrina. Café Royale, 800 Post St., SF. 415.441.4099 or http://www.caferoyale-sf.com for details.

Through July 23, 2006. THE REAL AND THE SURREAL. Exhibition documents the collaboration between SALVADOR DALI and PIERRE ARGILLET during the 1960s. Christopher Clark Gallery, 377 Geary St., SF. 415.397.7781 or http://www.clarkfineart.com for details.

Through July 30, 2006. PERSONAL PERSPECTIVES: ASPECTS OF EUROPEAN PHOTOGRAPHY. Work by EDOUARD-DENIS BALDUS, EDGAR DEGAS and others. De Young Museum, 75 Tea Garden Drive, Golden Gate Park, SF. 415.750.3600 or http://www.thinker.org for details.

Through July 31, 2006. FIREWORKS, a Visual Aid Exhibition of paintings by MARTINE JARDEL. The Hotel des Arts salutes Visual Aid -- inviting the public to join them in supporting and empowering artists, whose freedom of expression is a vital cultural treasure. Visit www.sfhoteldesarts.com/gallery.htm for a sneak preview. Hotel des Arts, 447 Bush Street (at Grant Ave), San Francisco. For info: 415-777-8242, visaid@visualaid.org 5:30pm-10:00pm.

Through July 31, 2006. WORKS BY EUROPEAN, AMERICAN AND MEXICAN MASTERS, including prints by TISSOT, TOULOUSE-LAUTREC, ROUAULT, BRAQUE, CHAGALL and more. Pasquale Iannetti Gallery, 531 Sutter St., SF. 415.433.2771 or http://www.pasqualeart.com for details.

Through July 31, 2006. ORIGINAL GRAPHIC WORKS BY EUROPEAN ARTISTS FROM THE 16TH CENTURY TO THE PRESENT, including work by TISSOT, RENOIR, MAGRITTE, TOULOUSE-LAUTREC, BRAQUE, MATISSE, LEGER, CHAGALL, and more. Pasquale Iannetti Gallery, 531 Sutter St., SF. 415.433.2771 or http://www.pasqualeart.com for details.

Through September 3, 2006. PICASSO AS BOOK ILLUSTRATOR. Legion of Honor, 100 34th Ave (at Clement), 415.863.3330 or http://www.thinker.org for details.

Through September 17, 2006. MONET IN NORMANDY. Claude Monet spent much of his life in Normandy in northern France and his art reflects his special relationship with this countryside and its topographical features, with its towns and villages, and the seasonal rhythms of the region. Monet gained artistic inspiration from these subjects and returned to them throughout his career. Of particular interest is his interpretation of the sparkling, surging bodies of water found in Normandy, from the bustling commercial harbor at Le Havre, to scenery along the Seine, or beside quiet river banks, such as the Epte, to the crashing waves at Etretat. Manmade monuments, such as Rouen cathedral, also figure in Monet’s repertoire and will be represented in this selection of approximately 60 paintings. California Palace of the Legion of Honor, Lincoln Park (34th at Clement), SF. http://www.thinker.org/legion/index.asp or 1.866.912.6326.

August 30, 2006. IN A PARIS MOMENT. Photographer Meredith Mullins presents her black-and-white, Cartier-Bresson-like photographs of Paris at The Book Passage in Corte Madera. She'll discuss "zen and the art of waiting" for the "decisive moment" to photograph what reviews have called "her own moveable feast of of striking portraits, landscapes, and ideas." She will also sign copies of her new book, In A Paris Moment—a collection of stunning photographs and heartfelt stories about Paris. The Book Passage. 51 Tamal Vista Drive, Corte Madera. 7pm. 415.927.0960. View photographs at http://www.meredithmullins.artspan.com

Through October 2, 2006. EUROPEAN TAPESTRIES FROM THE PERMANENT COLLECTION. Selected works in wool, silk and even gold from the Fine Arts Museum’s collection. 415.863.3330 or http://legionofhonor.org for details.

Through October 9, 2006. CARRIE MAE WEEMS: THE LOUISIANA PROJECT takes a critical look at the legacy of Louisiana through its varied cultures, including Franco-Caribbean and African; Weems uses the masquerade theme of MARDI GRAS to examine the history of New Orleans’ “co-mingling culture.” Narrative, video, and photography. Museum of the African Diaspora, 685 Mission Street (at Third), SF. 415.358.7200.

On-going. MODERN EUROPEAN MASTERS, including MATISSE, PICASSO, CHAGALL and more. Meyerovich Gallery, 251 Post, SF. 415.421.7171 or http://meyerovich.com for details.

On-going. FOLK ART by French Canadian artists PATRICK AMIOT & BRIGITTE LAURENT. Outdoor exhibits on-going on Florence St. in Sebastopol. http://www.patrickamiot-brigittelaurent.com/ for details.

On-going. MATISSE AND BEYOND: THE PAINTING AND SCULPTURE COLLECTION. SF Museum of Modern Art. Magnificent works of painting and sculpture culled from SFMOMA's own collections provide a quick tour of modern art from Fauvism to Minimalism. Daily. Exhibition tells the story of modern and contemporary art including landmark works by MATISSE, BOURGEOIS and others. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, 151 Third St., San Francisco. 415.357.4000 or www.sfmoma.org

On-going. BETWEEN ART AND LIFE: THE CONTEMPORARY PAINTING AND SCULPTURE COLLECTION, including works by LOUISE BOURGEOIS. SF Museum of Modern Art, 151 Third St. (at Mission), SF. 41.357.4000 or http://www.sfmoma.org for details.

FRENCHNETWORK.ORG. Des meubles ou une voiture à vendre avant de rentrer? Les prochains événements francophones à venir près de chez vous? Un portail où trouver rapidement un colocataire, un coiffeur, un traiteur ou un médecin francophone? Et si on pouvait centraliser les besoins de 3 millions d'expatriés français dans le monde sur une seule plateforme ... ? Ne rêvez plus. C'est chose faite avec FrenchNetwork.org, le premier portail de la communauté française avec une couverture mondiale. : Petites annonces, offres d'emplois et de stages, forum de discussions. Le tout TOTALEMENT GRATUIT ET INTERACTIF ! 1) Déposez votre profil dans « l'annuaire particulier» avec tous les mots clés qui vous caractérisent le mieux, pour des rencontres inattendues ou des prises de contact par des employeurs à l'étranger. http://www.frenchnetwork.org/home.php?page=inscription&etape=1 2) Déposez vos petites annonces concernant vos besoins de logement, ventes-achats de biens ou de services, de rencontres professionnelles ou personnelles. http://www.frenchnetwork.org/home.php?page=aj_annonce&etape=1 3) Consulter l'annuaire des entreprises françaises classées par localisation géographique http://www.frenchnetwork.org/home.php?page=annuaire_pro&etape=1 C'est que nous appelons le « Targeted Networking ». Visit us right now! <http://www.frenchnetwork.org> FrenchNetwork, 420 Lincoln Road, Miami, FL 33139.

MILLION DOLLAR DINNER TELEVISION SEASON TWO DEBUTS ON JANUARY 15TH and will include a variety of FRENCH RESTAURANTS. Happy New Year and Bon Appétit! Season 2 restaurants on Million Dollar Dinner Television include top spots like Absinthe, Jack Falstaff, Shanghai 1930, Citron, COPIA, Paragon, the Park Chalet, Jardiniere, and Farallon. Food, wine, chefs, recipes, Putumayo music and more, it's almost like you were there -- and since this is Million Dollar Dinner Television, maybe you were!!! TWO broadcasts a week, plus Video on Demand (VOD) on Comcast Cable. http://www.MillionDollarDinner.comfor more details.

BLOG POUR FRANCOPHILES, published by a French native living in San Francisco. Great daily reading material for novices and more! http://www.geneline.blogspot.com/

CITIZENVALLEY.ORG. CitizenValley repose sur le principe du journalisme citoyen où chaque internaute peut y participer en proposant un article (cela peut être son point de vue, une expérience, son resto favori...), des photos, des vidéos, en participant aux forums ou simplement en laissant un commentaire. On travaille déjà par exemple avec l'Alliance Française de Santa Clara, l'école ISTP et d'autres cercles francophones et volontaires,en reprenant leurs articles et en les encourageant à participer. Et on espère rapidement impliquer les étudiants et les professeurs de français de la baie à ce projet. Nous sommes par exemple à la recherche de personnes qui seraient motivées par animer une rubrique, un forum, une fonction(correction d'articles, promotion, graphisme...). Notre espoir est que CitizenValley devienne le portail de la communauté francophone et francophile de la Valley (et elle est nombreuse!)et soit le site de tout le monde, pour tout le monde. Animateurs: Hélène et Jean-Baptiste, 408-661-1452 or jbsu@citizenvalley.org or http://www.citizenvalley.org for details.

TELEGRAMME.NET. A free, non-commercial electronic newspaper dedicated to the French-speaking community in the United States, published by Philippe Crouzillacq, a full-time French journalist currently living in Paris (France ;-). Visit http://telegramme.net or e-mail overseas.telegram@gmail.com for more information

BAY AREA FRANCOPHONE PARENTS. Are you a Francophone or Francophile parent in the Bay Area? Then visit the Frenchparents.org web site. It's Bons Plans (Recommendations) forum is full of interesting local tips, and to really participate, subscribe to the biweekly online newsletter, where new memebers are introduced and announcements and want ads are posted. Hope to see you soon on http://www.frenchparents.net.

FRANCE TODAY. France Today, the Journal of French Travel and Culture, takes you on a journey to France ten times per year with in-depth information on travel destinations all over France and practical travel tips to make your trip a care-free one. Subscribe now for only $32 - Bay Area Francophile List price (regular price $39). Click here for details: http://www.francetoday.com/subscribe_ft_bafl.php

JOURNAL FRANÇAIS. Journal Français is your Vital Link to France and the French Language, as well as your Best Resource for French Products and Services available in the U.S. Entirely in French. One year subscription, 12 issues shipped/one per month. Only $34 -Bay Area Francophile List (regular price $41). Click here for details: http://www.journalfrancais.com/subscribe_jf_bafl.php

WWW.PARIS-EXPAT.COM. Paris Through Expatriate Eyes. Enjoy a FREE monthly subscription to PARIS THROUGH EXPATRIATE EYES' monthly newsletter THE PARIS INSIDER. We've been expanding the content of the newsletter and developing new Paris programs for travelers. Visit www.paris-expat.com and enroll on the home page. Win free tickets to French movies... and more! Email Terrance at terrance@paris-expat.com or call 415.388.4956 for details.

FRANCETIME: The Online French Connection - Le Reseau francophone mondial. FranceTime is the place where Francophiles interact in English or French: French news, virtual/real Tours, Free classified, chat rooms, travel tips and advice and more. Don't miss our virtual our of Paris, "Paris en Images". We are looking for volunteer writers who want to share their knowledge of the French culture (i.e., travel tips, reports, journal, culture, etc.). If you want to submit material, go to http://www.francetime.com/submit.php. Visit us now at http://www.francetime.com. A tout de suite.

THE FRENCH CLASS NEWSLETTER. FRENCH NEWSLETTER: language and travel tips, list of activities in French such as wine tastings, free conversation groups, French parties, cooking classes, dinner, museums visits, workshops, etc. Only $30 per year for 6 issues. Call The French Class, 500 Sutter Street, Suite 310, SF (415.362.3666) for details.

TV5 NOW AVAILABLE ON CABLE! Watch the best in French programming on TV5, now available on Cable TV with Comcast in many cities in the San Francisco Bay Area. TV5 is only $10.99 a month in addition to your Comcast cable subscription. For complete details about service, prices and availability or to subscribe call toll free 1-888-824-8058.

MILLION DOLLAR DINNER TELEVISION SEASON TWO DEBUTS ON JANUARY 15TH and will include a variety of FRENCH RESTAURANTS. Happy New Year and Bon Appétit! Season 2 restaurants on Million Dollar Dinner Television include top spots like Absinthe, Jack Falstaff, Shanghai 1930, Citron, COPIA, Paragon, the Park Chalet, Jardiniere, and Farallon. Food, wine, chefs, recipes, Putumayo music and more, it's almost like you were there -- and since this is Million Dollar Dinner Television, maybe you were!!! TWO broadcasts a week, plus Video on Demand (VOD) on Comcast Cable. http://www.MillionDollarDinner.comfor more details.

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*ANNOUNCEMENTS*

SEEKING FRENCH-SPEAKING RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTS IN THE U.S. Hi/Bonjour! I’m a marketing consultant who’s trying to help a French stone mason make contacts in the U.S. among—and here’s the needle in the haystack—French-speaking residential architects. I’ve tried to find such folks via the AIA (American Institute of Architects) but their database does not include language skills. If you know of someone, please call or e-mail. Merci en avance! Randy Hobler, President, Marketing Mastery, 134 Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522, 914.693.5938 or rhobler@optonline.net

SEEKING HOST FAMILIES. I am writing to discuss the possibility of you and your families participating in our program as host families for a high school French group this summer. This group will be here from June 30 to July 28, 2006 and consists of 1 leader and 6 high school students from all over France. Through this opportunity, your group will help to bring the unique benefits of international exchange to your children, families and community. To make the most of the experience, host families are assigned an Area Coordinator who assists in arranging a welcome and farewell party for the host families and students, as well as fun excursions that the host families are encouraged to participate in. The main purpose, however, of the students' stay is to interact with their host families. It's a great opportunity for families to bring France to their home and learn first-hand about a new and different culture. French students also benefit from their experience in learning about the United States, our language, customs and culture. Please contact me if this sounds like something that you or anyone in your group would be interested in. I would love to do a presentation for your group and/or could also send materials promoting this summer program. To learn more about our programs, please view our website at http://www.aspectfoundation.org and click on 'Study Abroad.' Please contact us immediately if you are interested in this unique opportunity and would like to learn more. Thank you for your time and consideration. Allyson Martinez, Program Assistant, Aspect/Adventures in Real Communication. 1.800.637.5859 for details.

HOST FAMILIES NEEDED! Have you ever thought about hosting an exchange student? NWSE is a student exchange program that finds host families for High School age students from all over the world. Making the decision to host an exchange student takes time, but can be a great experience. Your family will gain knowledge about another culture that you may or may not know much about. It also provides a great opportunity to travel and brush up or learn a new language. All that is required of host families is: two to three meals a day, a bed (not necessarily their own room), and to be included in some occasional activities with the family. Students pay for their own travel expenses and entertainment. If you are interested or know anyone that is please contact : Jennifer Cantacuzene at 707 566 8486 or leisel3@aol.com. We have lots of students still waiting to be placed.

COMPASS USA SEEKING HOST FAMILIES. Compass USA is a summer program for French students wishing to experience a full immersion into an American family. Students include Axel, 16, from Saint-Malo; Hervé, 17, from Saint-Dizier; Paul, 16, from Saint-Cloud; and Olivier, 19, from Niort. In addition, there is a group of 10 French students going to Sacramento from July 5-30 and the coordinator there would be willing to accept host families in the Bay Area for them; he still has 5 students to place. This group does one excursion per week (2 trips to S.F., one to Santa Cruz, and one to Marine World) and the families are welcome to come! If someone is interested in becoming a host family, please contact Judy Gallegos at 510-793-9859 or judyLgallegos@yahoo.com. To learn more about Compass USA, go to http://www.compass-usa.net

VALLEY OF THE MOON PETANQUE CLUB organizes interclub tournaments, including the qualifying tournament for the world championships, to be held in Grenoble in September. Introductory tournaments for “New Commers” held in the spring; lunch included.

FRANCOPHILE UK-BORN ARTIST is looking for studio/cottage in which to live and paint for a few months. Would prefer Sonoma-Napa-Marin country location, small rent or house-sitting. Please contact roy.design@hotmail.com

July 13-August 2, 2006. BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS! ENJOY THE EXCITEMENT OF CROSS-CULTURAL EXCHANGE! HOST A FRENCH STUDENT FOR 3 WEEKS THIS SUMMER! Is your family interested in hosting a French student this summer? If you have a school-aged child who is enthusiastic about showing a French visitor a glimpse of American life, please contact me about a possible placement. Families without children can also be considered. The families do not need to speak French and activities do not need to be extravagant. The students are keen to make new friends across the Atlantic in beautiful California and to bring the warmth and sun of Méditerranée, la “Grande Bleue” to your family! Please contact Mona Nyandoro for more details: 415.977.8788 or monanyandoro@yahoo.com

VIVE LES VACANCES SUMMER CAMP. The Alliance Française de San Francisco and its team of dedicated teachers are offering eight weeks of discovery through various entertaining workshops to develop your children’s skills, broaden their horizons and make friends! Register for one week or more (June 6 to August 11) . 5 days a week 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. 1 week : $170 (except for week 3, including July 4th : $140) Get 10 % off if child registers for 4 weeks (valid until may 15th 2006) The Alliance Française Summer Camp is a eight-week journey into Art, Song, Music, Games, and Cooking… for children ages from 5 and up, divided in small groups, for all levels of French (activities will be conducted mostly in French). Beginners are welcome! Call 415 775 77 55 for more information or registration

FRENCH REALTOR(r)/ Agent Immobilier for all your needs, buy, sale, investments. All your needs fullfilled with a smile! Nadège S. Leflemme Bankers Realty Direct: 510-303-6761 Office: 415-977-0690 Fax: 415-474-2440 E mail: nleflemme@bankersrealty.net Web: http://www.bankersrealty.net or http://www.homepages.com/nadegel

PRIVATE TENNIS LESSONS IN FRENCH. Junior & Adult, Beginner to Competitive Levels. Year Round. Membership not required. Call tennis director Laurent Lecellier, 707.544.2330 for details. Wikiup Tennis & Swim Club, 500 Wikiup Drive, Santa Rosa.

WIN A TRIP TO PARIS! Folies Fantastiques Prize Drawing (proceeds benefit the French American International School & International High School). Enter to win one of 3 fabulous prizes, including a trip for two with airfare to Paris or a B&B stay at the Ritz-Carlton! To find out more about this wonderful opportunity or to purchase tickets, please visit: http://www.frenchamericansf.org/ways_to_give/foliesfantastiques_2006.htm Please direct questions or comments to Sabra Stoner at sabras@frenchamericaninternational.org.

BOOK CLUB FRANCOPHONE À SAN FRANCISCO. Lectures en français; réunions tous les deux mois; rotation de “host place” et potluck possible. Discussion très ouverte, pas trop structuree, mais plutôt un échange d’opinions/d’idées sur le livre et sur le thème du livre. Choix de textes à décider ensemble. Contactez Bérénice Le Marchand, blemarch@sfsu.edu

NÉFETARI®! Néfetari® skin care products and services caters to each individual’s special needs. Its owner, Houria, has studied under world-renowned skin experts and dermatologists and brings over 15 years of knowledge to Néfetari’s clients. This experience and a unique attention to each client’s needs, allows Néfetari to guarantee results, even for the most troubled skin. Nefetari uses and recommends only the highest quality skin care and make-up products, by Sothys® Paris, made from all-natural ingredients. For more information, go to http://www.nefertari.com or call 650.324.0659

CANOE ISLAND FRENCH CAMP. Canoe Island French Camp is nestled in the center of the sunny San Juan Islands of Northwestern Washington. Campers from ages 9-16 live and explore their own 47-acre island while taking part in a unique mix of French language and culture and the outdoor and artistic activities of a classic Northwest summer camp. With only 40 participants each session, campers can customize their experience -- artistic and theatrical, adventuresome and athletic - or a mixture. Days are filled with new friends and exciting activities, all with a French flair. http://www.canoeisland.org/

CAPITAL RISQUE dans la Silicon Valley : rapport du service scientifique du Consulat General de France a San Francisco Le Capital Risque est une activité consistant à financer en capitaux propres des entreprises nouvellement créées et à fort potentiel de croissance. Cette activité semble désormais retrouver une certaine vigueur aux Etats-Unis et en particulier dans la région de San Francisco. Le consulter. 415.442.4717 OR http://www.faccsf.com for details.

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS INITIATIVE. The Office for Science and Technology of the Embassy of France in the US, is organizing for the second time, the Young Entrepreneurs Initiative. This initiative provides young U.S.-based researchers and entrepreneurs the unique and exciting opportunity to pursue their project to create an innovative company in France especially in the fields of biotechnology, nanotechnology, materials and information technology. Entrepreneurs selected to participate in this program will receive financial assistance and suitable support from the Office for Science and Technology and its French partner institutions to ensure that their projects can be carried out. There are no restrictions on age or nationality. To apply or for further information, please visit our website at http://www.france-science.org/innovation/yei The deadline for applications is March 5th, 2006. Startup Booster Spring 2006 Targeting Life Science Entrepreneurs, this workshop series will take place in April and May 2006, more information to come. If interested, please contact Aurelie Vincent avincent@faccsf.com

FRENCH CONTRACTOR. Experienced French general contractor, Gerard Dahan, votre contractor français. Nous specialisons en cuisines et salles de bain. Nous avons de tres bonnes references. Gerard, from Paris has been working in the S.F. Bay Area for many years. His specialty is kitchen and bath remodeling. Please call Gerard at Norcal Construction, 510.471.9551.

EXPERIENCED FRENCH TEACHER FROM PARIS available for private tutoring in San Francisco, Berkeley, and Oakland. Sorbonne educated; trilingual; 12 years teaching experience; 8 years working at one of the most acclaimed language schools in Paris; extensive experience tutoring students of all ages and needs at every level, from advanced University French to introductory French. My emphasis is on communication, and I use grammar as a tool, not an end in itself (except if that is what you need for an exam!). I am patient, gentle, and dedicated to teaching you French, in a way that will help you build your confidence. I like to consider myself as a coach, encouraging my students to improve through a very progressive and personalized approach. Call Sandrine at 415.513.8179. (Local and international references available)

BELLATERRA TRAVEL, LLC. BellaTerra Travel offers fully planned tours to some of the most beautiful destinations in Europe: Haute-Savoie and Provence. Explore the sights and sounds of these regions on this 11-day tour originating in Annecy and concluding in Avignon. This tour takes on the leisurely pace of Southern France while keeping an ambitious itinerary sure to offer you a variety of new and never-to-be-forgotten experiences. A lot of free time is included, allowing you to enjo the feel of each locale. Charminyg and historic accommodations that are typical of each region were carefully selected. You will only change hotels one time allowing you to have a place to call "home" and from which you will take day trips. Come with us and experience a real "French vacation"! Trip highlights include a gondola ride up the highest peak in Europe, shopping in ritzy Geneva, strolling through the medieval streets of Annecy and Avignon, wine tasting in world-renowned Châteauneuf-du Pape, and much more! BellaTerra Travel is based in San Francisco. Visit http://www.BellaTerraTravel.com or call 1-800-9-BELLA-TT.

COLORS OF PROVENCE, Fine Table Linens and Accessories. Bring a touch of Provencal sunshine and elegance to your home! Colors of Provence is an online boutique offering tablecloths, napkins, kitchen accessories, purses and bags imported from Provence. Please come see our selection of products at http://www.colorsofprovence.com. (Distributor is located in Menlo Park)

GÎTES FOR RENT IN THE DORDOGNE. Bay Area Family has 2 different houses set upon a hill in a hamlet of old stone houses dating from the 1700's. Beautiful stone 1 bedroom and 3 bedroom homes with a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, separate WC, living room with big stone fireplace, TV, DVD player and CD player. All amenities are within walking distance down the country lane. The Perigord is famous for its food: black truffles, canard, pâté de foie gras, cèpes, and walnuts, with many good restaurants in the area; as well as the rich historic sites as many famous grottes (caves), Bastille towns, Castles, and old villages are less than 1-hour drive away (Lascaux is only 20 minutes). Visit our website: www.lesgitesfleuris.com for details.

FRENCH CONSUMERS ADORE AMERICAN PRODUCTS! I seek to associate with an individual or company wishing to develop a market for selling their product or service in France. Originally from Santa Rosa, CA, I now live in the south of France, GARD (30) (4+ yrs). Since you subscribe to this on-line Bay Area Francophile List, you certainly understand that French consumers (especially the young) adore American products and lifestyles. So, if you have a serious product to sell and desire to profit from this lucrative marketplace please write me, identifying your product or service for my consideration (jhillpresentsFR@aol.com or VillesVillagesFR@aol.com). If I feel we can establish a profitable alliance I will respond with my particulars within 3 days of receipt. Amicalement, John-North HILL, "John Hill Presents" Chusclan, France.

FRENCH ESCAPADE. Don't be a tourist, be our guest. Discover France another way. Delight your senses and renew your romantic side in the exquisite South East of France with this fully escorted 9-day tour from the Alps to Provence in a group of 6 by French Escapade. Your personal bilingual tour guide and chauffeur will treat you to highlights of the local culture-from the majestic Alps to the eleventh-century forts and cathedrals, quaint French towns, lavender fields, outdoor markets and French cafes. Every night, you will revel in traditional 4-course gourmet meals, prepared just for you and relax by the fire in a charming restored 19th Century country estate with spectacular view on the Alps. Women-only tours available. Visit www.frenchescapade.com

PARIS THROUGH EXPATRIATE EYES. Enjoy a FREE monthly subscription to PARIS THROUGH EXPATRIATE EYES' monthly newsletter THE PARIS INSIDER. We've been expanding the content of the newsletter and developing new Paris programs for travelers. Visit www.paris-expat.com and enroll on the home page.

LA MAISON DES ARTISTES OF SAN FRANCISCO has been conceived to be an art center gathering together "young artists" with an international concept where pictorial art, music and dance are the symbolism of the Art in the general way. It is simply a warm meeting place where all individuals can get an artistic training from teachers with degrees in art and hence qualified. All classes will be full of wealth and life. For being alive means being open, which will allow for a richer learning experience. In addition, La Maison des Artistes will host quarterly art and music exhibitions by the students. This will facilitate the exchange of artistic flavors and communications among the" young artists" as well as provide an opportunity to present their work to the public. La Maison des Artistes was created in 1999 by Bernard-Emmanuel Beneito who is a former French teacher from Ministry of National Education Paris for 34 years and international post-expressionist artist, academical Knight from Greci Marino Order - Italy. Until now, La Maison des Artistes was strictly a painting school located in Palo Alto. With the desire to offer more styles of art to more people, Bernard-Emmanuel Beneito has expanded La Maison des Artistes to include sculpting-ceramic work as well as music classes. Opening September 2004 in the heart of San Francisco in plush Hayes Valley, La Maison des Artistes is open to all ages and all abilities and hopes to enrich the lives of all. Locations: 333 Hayes Street, Suite 106, San Francisco CA 94102. Email: stlbluesart@netzero.com; Ph/fax 415.621.4813. Note also: LA MAISON DES ARTISTES OF PALO ALTO, 926 Emerson street. 2nd floor Palo Alto CA 94301. Email : stlbluesart@netzero.com. Ph/fax 650.327.9893

FRENCH IMMERSION FAMILY HOME DAYCARE - Pre-school curriculum, ages 2-5 and after-school French Programs For Elementary School Kids (Beginning &endash; Fluent). Santa Rosa 707-539-6888 for information; Lic. 493004688.

POSTERS FRANCAIS. Pour les petits comme pour les grands, des posters pour chacun. Posters2France (a lire en francais : Posters de France), http://www.posters2france.com, propose des posters varies de la France de Robert Doisneau ou de Rene-Jacques aussi bien que celle de Yann Arthus-Bertrand et beaucoup d'autres. Vous y trouverez aussi Babar, le petit Prince, Tintin et les vieilles publicites francaises. 50% de reduction sur les prix web pour les ecoles et professeurs pour toute commande superieure a $100. (Distributor is a local San Franciscan.)

LA CAVE (formerly Curbside Bistro) is open for lunch. Located below the Alliance Française, 1345 Bush Street, San Francisco. 415.923.1375. La Cave serves excellent soupes, salades, and ensuite (afterward/dessert) with genuine French style. Here you can try French favorites such as coq au vin (chicken with wine), and faux filet sauce bordelaise (sirloin with Bordeaux sauce). For dessert, try le bouchon special maison (the house special), a hot luscious, dark chocolate cake with raspberries outside and liquid chocolate inside.

CAFÉ SOCIETY, 1000 MAIN STREET, NAPA, CA 94559. Café Society, an authentic French bistro and retail store by day and an intimate cabaret style nightclub by night, is a feast for the senses. The bi-monthly Cabaret Evenings at Café Society are extremely popular and fast becoming a favorite venue for top-notch performers. Audiences may enjoy authentic bistro food paired with French wines, Belgian Beers, Italian espresso, Parisian hot chocolate and a selection of specialty beverages while listening to stellar Bay Area performers. The Café Society store is constantly evolving with a rotation of fine European antiques, lighting, gifts and jewelry assembled from shopping trips to France and Italy by store proprietors, and award winning interior designers Joan and Steve Osburn. Café Society is located at 1000 Main Street in historic downtown Napa, directly next door to the Napa Valley Opera House. For more information on happenings at Café Society and ongoing events including poetry readings, French conversation, writer's café, poetry readings, Conversation Café, cabaret evenings, tastings, book signings and other lively presentations, visit www.cafesocietystore.com or call 415.487.2333 X118. A TASTE OF PARIS AT YOUR DESK...CAFE SOCIETY NOW DELIVERS! Call or Fax 11-2 Monday - Friday for delicious French Bistro Food including: Croque Monsieur w/Salad, Mocha Frappes, Prosciutto & Gruyere Baguette Sandwiches, Gourmet Soups like Roasted Tomato Garlic & Hearty Chicken Vegetable, Spinach Quiche w/Salad, Salade Nicoise. Tel: 707.256.3232 x203 Fax: 707.256.3237

CREPE EXPRESS. Taste Paris! Savory and sweet crêpes, French sandwiches and more 1476 Haight at Ashbury, SF. 415.865.0264.

LUNCH IN A BOX from LEFT BANK IN PLEASANT HILL. Left Bank, Pleasant Hill's popular French brasserie, has launched a new dining option targeted to local businesses and anyone who wants fresh, delicious meals with Left Bank flavor and style. WHAT: a variety of sandwiches, side salads and sweets, freshly made-to-order and boxed for easy pick up. Just think "Left Bank To Go." WHERE: Left Bank brasserie, 60 Crescent Drive on the Plaza in Pleasant Hill, conveniently located off the 680 freeway. WHEN: Available every day, from 10am-10am; Minimum 24 hour pre-order is appreciated. HOW TO ORDER: Call Left Bank at 925.288.1222 and ask for Caite Daniel or the Manager on duty. PRICE: $10.95 plus sales tax; $1.00 per bottle for bottled water or assorted soft drinks available upon request. All items may be prepared platter style. Delivery options available.

BUCKWHEAT ZYDECO’s new recording JACKPOT! is featured on p.40 of the June 23, 2006 Pacific Sun.

September 13, 2006. CHARLES AZNAVOUR ~ FAREWELL TOUR. Masonic Auditorium. Tickets on sale now! http://www.tickets.com. 8pm.

RAQUEL BITTON. Lionsgate Films proudly announces the release of "Piaf... Her story... Her songs" starring Raquel Bitton. On DVD Now! Buy now at http://www.amazon.com or Borders.com or Wherehouse.com and all music and DVD retailers nationwide. A formidable Bay Area musical presence, Raquel Bitton has sold out Carnegie Hall 3 times (3000-seat theater) and major symphony halls around the country. She is the star of the award winning film PIAF..Her Story, Her Songs, distributed by Lionsgate Films. She appeared at numerous prestigious film festivals internationally, promoting her award-winning film and was the recipient of a Special Jury Prize at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival, among many other honors. The DVD of PIAF..Her story..Her songs will be released by Lionsgate films in early 2006 with an intense promotional campaign for RAQUEL BITTON, this coinciding with the February release of PARIS BLUES. Tour dates will be posted at: http://www.raquelbitton.com Internationally reviewed as the greatest interpreter of the music from the Edith Piaf repertoire, RAQUEL BITTON celebrates the extraordinary life of the legendary Edith Piaf through her songs. A 20-piece orchestra backs Bitton’s one-woman tribute to the “little sparrow.” Elegant orchestrations are arranged by long-time collaborator Bob Holloway. Bitton tells stories of Piaf’s life that mirror the timeless songs that catapulted Piaf from singing in the streets of Paris as a child to becoming the highest paid entertainer in the world at the time. Bitton’s unique, heartfelt renditions (sung in French) and her powerful delivery take her audience on an intensely moving and emotional journey. Singing in French and English, Raquel has developed a variety of additional elegant French-themed presentations including “Pops goes to Paris,” “Postcards from Paris,” “Chansons d’Amour,” and “In a Jazzy Mood.” Book RAQUEL BITTON for live performances at Performing Arts centers, Theaters, and Pops appearances. AGENT: Gerald Prolman, President, Sparrow Productions, E.mail:Sparrowprdct@aol.com

KING WAWA AND THE ONENESS KINGDOM BAND. The Oneness Kingdom Band is an original band skillfully flavored with a distinctive variety of music destined to transport the listener to a different world. With Haiti as your first destination- enjoy the ride as you are piloted onward for an uplifting and spirited musical journey through Latin America, Africa and Brazil. The sound is tropically unique with a magic pulsation agreeable to the heart and powered to make your dance! Everyone will love the Caribbean rhythms of King Wawa and The Oneness Kingdom Band! Contact 510.410.6963 or visit http://www.kingwawa.com or email wawa@kingwawa.com or onenesskingdom@msn.com

AN EVENING OF FRENCH CABARET. Join us and be transported to Paris for an evening of French cabaret. Edith Piaf, Mistenguette, Maurice Chevalier, Jacques Brel, Josephine Baker - let their words enchant you! Featuring Moana Diamond, Craig Jessup and Danny Slomoff along with Jerry Frohmader on piano, Dartanyan Brown on bass and Ron Sfarzo on accordion. One Thursday per month at142 Throckmorton Theatre, Mill Valley. 415.383.9600 or http://www.142ThrockmortonTheatre.com for details. 8pm.

HELENE ATTIA. Singer/guitarist Helene Attia performs a wide selection of music, including world jazz, pop, and Latin which she sings in French, English, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese. She is available to perform as a soloist or with her band, for concerts, weddings, private parties, festivals, conventions and private events. For booking information please contact her at: (510) 508-3611 hsattia@yahoo.com , or visit her at www.heleneattia.com

XAVIER DE LA PRADE, ACCORDIONIST and specialist of French café music, can lead sing-a-longs with lyrics to over 50 French songs. M. de la Prade often plays for the Alliances of Marin and Santa Rosa along with the Lafayette Club of Marin County. Anyone needing a French accordionist should contact him directly at 415.662.2105.

HENRI-PIERRE KOUBAKA performs ancient and contemporary Mandingo Music from Senegal, Mali, Guinea and Kongo with vocals and acoustic guitar. When not performing solo Henri-Pierre Koubaka leads a band which often incorporates a variety of instruments such as balafon, violin , cello, bass . guitar . This large ensemble may also feature dancers while the unavoidable percussion section contributes secular and spiritual rhythms. 510.501.1900. kumpo@yahoo.com.

DIAMANO COURA WEST AFRICAN DANCE COMPANY. Founded in 1975 by dance scholars Zak Diouf and Naomi Washington, this Oakland company is known to raise the roof with its joyous drumming and dancing. Diamano Coura means ‘those who bring the message’ in Wolof and these powerhouse dancers in traditional dance do just that. 510.733.1077 or http://www.diamanocoura.org for details.

BERKELEY. Conversation Group has been meeting in Berkeley for the past 12 years. The teacher is a native speaker with a Master's degree in French literature and a teaching credential. The level is intermediate, advanced. We read and talk. Call Michele at 510.549.1675 or e-mail michouthorsen@aol.com for dates and times.

BROWN-BAG LUNCH WITH THE COMMONWEALTH CLUB One for intermediate speakers of French, and another for advanced. At its office downtown, 595 Market Street. The contact and meeting information is given below. Membership in the Commonwealth Club may be required: http://www.commonwealthclub.org/languages.html

Monthy dinner meetings. DINNER WITH THE WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL. You can write to these groups requesting to be placed on their distribution list. The dinners are held at different restaurants in San Francisco. http://www2.itsyourworld.org/yp/language_dinner_contact.php

BAY AREA FRENCH GROUP. Last November marked the 21st anniversary of the Bay Area French Group. Thanks to the interest and contagious enthusiasm of our members, our membership has grown from 4 to 40 people from Marin, San Francisco, the Peninsula, and the East and South Bay. As a member, you will receive a monthly notice with information about each "réunion," with French conversation and food, from our "sécretaire extraordinaire," Marian Hirsch. This notice, and your e-mail notice, if you provide us this address, includes the date (a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday at 7 PM) and directions to the member's home. Please remember to bring some light food or drink so that our gracious host has fewer preparations. You are encouraged to invite other French-speaking people, since that is how our group grows! Our annual dues is $10.00, which covers: postage for mailing monthly meeting notices; monthly e-mail notices, if you provide an e-mail address; periodic membership list updates (by Marian); opportunity to attend monthly French Group gatherings; annual birthday celebration for the French Group. CONTACT: jandot5@mac.com

Monday evenings: FRENCH CONVERSATION with Anne Marie MacEligot.Every Friday 6pm-7pm. Interested in speaking French with others? All levels are welcome to this informal gathering. Cafe Society, 1000 Main Street, Napa. Call for additional information 707.256.3232 x206. Email sales@cafesocietystore.com or http://www.cafesocietystore.com.

Monday evenings: FRENCH CONVERSATION group. Every Monday 7:30 pm-9pm. Join "le petit groupe" in San Francisco. Call for additional information 415.269.7718 or cobrion@hotmail.comFirst Monday of the month: THE FRENCH CONNECTION OF THE SILICON VALLEY. 1st Monday of the month, 6:30pm to 9pm. Networking plus speaker plus buffet for more info, register at : http://www.dbf.net. 1001 Marshall St., Redwood City CA.

Second Monday of the month: MARIN INTERFRENCH. Meetings chez Michel à Greenbrae. zsolution4u@yahoo.com or http://www.interfrench.com or 415.925.1241 for details.Tuesday afternoons: FLUENT FRENCH SPEAKERS GROUP at the Belvedere-Tiburon Library, 1501 Tiburon Blvd., Tiburon, at noon. Contact Len Rogers, 415.435.2651 for details.

Tuesday afternoons: CAUSERIE a OAKMONT. 4-5pm. Berger Center, 6634 Oakmont Drive.

Every other Tuesday afternoon: CAFE PHILOSOPHIQUE. Organized by The French Class, 500 Sutter Street, Suite 310, SF, 415.362.3666. Every other Tuesday at5:30, free activity for the members of our French Club. Please call for information on how to become a member of our French Club.

Tuesday evenings. CAUSERIE A HEALDSBURG. 5:30 - 7:30 only. Call Sue Phillips 707.433.8074, Myrna Green 707.433.3677, or Audrey Darby 707.431.1619, for details.

Tuesday evenings: CAUSERIE A SEBASTOPOL. 6pm - 8pm. Copperfield's Annex, 176 Gravenstein Highway North. For information, call Madeleine(707.829.1297).

Tuesday evenings: FRENCH CONVERSATION IN MENLO PARK. All levels welcome! Place: CAFE BORRONE, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park CA 94025. Time: 6:30 p.m. (people come anytime between 6:30 and 10:00). LOOK FOR THE TABLE WITH THE FRENCH FLAG AND DICTIONARY!

Tuesday evenings: FRENCH CONVERSATION GROUP meeting 7:30-8:30pm every Tuesday at Cafe Borrone (http://www.cafeborrone.com/) located at 1010 El Camino Real, in Menlo Park. All levels welcome. For more information, please email bay_frenchclub@yahoo.com

First, Third and Fifth Tuesdays: FRENCH CONVERSATION GROUP. We meet at the Dana Street Roasting Company in Mountain View. The address of the cafe is 744 W. Dana Street. The cafe is about 100 yards south of Castro, just beside Alberto's dance hall. 7:30 - 10:00 pm. All levels welcome. From time to time, we organize other events such as picnics or parties on Saturdays or Sundays. For more information, e-mail Dave Bogdanoff at dbogdanoff@mail.arc.nasa.gov.

Wednesday mornings: PETANQUE A JUILLIARD PARK. 211 Santa Rosa Avenue Santa Rosa, 10am. Call Marty Montague at 707.584.0893 for information.Wednesday afternoons: CHEZ GLORIA CAMERON. 707.433.9490 for information.

Wednesday afternoons: JE TRICOTE, TU TRICOTES, NOUS TRICOTONS. Venez joindre Monique pour une après-midi sympa à tricoter ou à apprendre à tricoter. Tous les mercredis de 14h00 à 16h00, à partir du mercredi 4 janvier. Votre don pour l’école sera accepté avec plaisir. Téléphonez au 707.543.8151 à l’Alliance à l’avance pour réserver. Amenez seulement votre tricot. /Come and join Monique and enjoy (learning) knitting and speaking French at the same time in this relaxed atmosphere. She meets every Wednesday afternoon from 2 to 4 pm, starting January 4, 2006. Please call 707.543.8151 in advance to attend. Just bring your knitting and a donation for the school will be always welcomed.

Wednesday evenings: GROUPE DE RENCONTRE, Folsom Street, San Francisco, 19h à 21h. Pour des personnes qui veulent apprendre la langue française ou qui la parle plus ou moins bien et seraient intéressées à se retrouver régulièrement pour converser en français. Red Poppy Art House, 2698 Folsom (at 23rd), SF. 19h à 21h. Gratuit. Contactez: Achille, massoma7@yahoo.com

First Wednesday of the month. CONVERSATION AT ZAZIE. Dinner group meets at Zazie, 941 Cole, San Francisco, organized by the restaurant, every firstWednesday of the month. There is a French language dinner table. Call beforehand to reserve your spot: Zazie, 941 Cole, 564-5332 http://dinesite.com/info/rstrnt-307188/?&t=372424

Second Wednesday evening of each month: CONVERATION A VILLA MARIN. Marin, a San Rafael retirement residence, has a French table; if you are fairly fluent and would like to dine at the French table, call Raymonde Kaplan at 415.492.2567. Subtitled French film shown after dinner.Third Wednesday evening of each month: NETWORKING AT INTERFRENCH WORKSHOPS, Santa Clara. Please note that the InterFrench Workshops have moved. We will be meeting now every 3rd wednesday night at the beautiful Silicon Valley Bank facility at 5200 Patrick Henry Drive in Santa Clara. Please let your friends know as you are only among these special 10% of people that actually read their email! Do NOT enter through the main lobby and look at the map on our website as it may be difficult to find the first time: http://www.siliconfrench.com/events_directions_svbank.shtml

Thursday afternoons. CAUSERIES DU JEUDI. 1710 Mendocino Avenue Café. 4:30pm-6pm, with Marina Velichensky & Daphne Smith.

Second Thursday of the month: LES DYNAMIQUES. 18h30. El Torrito, 10330 North Wolfe Avenue, Cupertino (entre la 280 et Stevens Creek). Denis, 408.746.0123 or Marie-Helene, 408.379.7817.

Third Thursday of every month: NEW CAFE EVENT! Join Cafe Society for acelebration of the European cafe lifestyle with French wine & hors d'oeuvre, Belgian beer and more. Every Third Thursday 6-9PM. Napa Riverfront District. For additional information, please contact Susan Hewitt 415.487.2333 x118 shewitt@cafesocietystore.com.

First Friday of the month: SONOMA-PROVENCE FRENCH CHAT. Sassafras Wine Bar, 1229 N. Dutton Ave., Santa Rosa.All levels of French are welcome Beginning at 6:15 p.m. We'll meet in the lounge area where you can order food and beverages. Sassafras is open until 9 and is located at 1229 North Dutton Avenue, Santa Rosa (College Avenue heading west, right onto Dutton, left into large parking lot of Santa Rosa Business Park. E-mail sonprov@sbcglobal.net for more information.

First Friday of the month: LE CERCLE DES AMIS FRANCOPHONES. Le Cercle des Amis Francophones is a social group and potluck for gay and lesbian francophones. We meet on the first Friday of every month at a private home in The San Francisco Bay Area. Call Ralph at (415) 861-3155 or Stefen at (510) 531-7836for info.

Friday mornings: PETANQUE A JUILLIARD PARK. 211 Santa Rosa Avenue in Santa Rosa. Call Marty Montague at 707.584.0893 for information. 10am.

Friday afternoons: FRENCH FOR FREE at The French Class, 500 Sutter Street, Suite 310, San Francisco. Everybody is welcome. 12:00 to 2:00pm.

Fridays afternoons: FRENCH PLAY GROUP IN SAN FRANCISCO. Contact: Sybille Schneider : Coordonnees: sybilleschneider@yahoo.com. Join us with youryoung ones in one of SF's parks or in a home for this French playgroup. We meet Fridays around 4pm.

Friday evenings: FRENCH CONVERSATION GROUP in San Francisco. Venez pratiquer votre français avec nous ! Un groupe de conversation française (sfofrench) se rencontre chaque vendredi soir, de 19h à 22h00, à Cafe Segafredo (dans la salle du fond), 235 Powell Street, à San Francisco. Tous les niveaux de français sont bienvenus. Tout le monde est sympathique et l'atmosphère très détendue ! Nous organisons parfois d'autres activités (cinéma, restaurant, randonnée, etc.). Pour de plus amples renseignements, contactez : sfofrench@yahoogroups.

First & third Fridays of the month: SALON DE CONVERSATION FRANCAISE A GLEN ELLEN. French salons in Glen Ellen for advanced students, first and third Fridays of the month, 6 to 7:30pm. Small groups starting in February. For more information and to reserve, call 707.938.0321 or email Yannickponte@yahoo.com.

Third Friday of each month: CONVERSATION (Tous Niveaux) à l'Alliance Française de Berkeley, 2004 Woolsey (near Ashby BART station) à partir de 18h30. Beginners Welcome! Potluck style hosted by Madeleine and Xavier. Contact: afberkeley@sbcglobal.net or 510.548.7481.

Saturday mornings: LA GARDERIE PLAY GROUP AT THE ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE DE SANTA ROSA. Have coffee downtown while your child learns French. Drop off your child (3-16) in room "Le Petit Prince" every Saturday from 12:30 pm to 1:30pm. S/he will be well taken care of by a French speaker. Plenty of books, tapes, movies. Cost, $5. 707.543.8151 for details.

Saturday mornings, every two weeks. LE SAC A HISTOIRES. La bibliothèque de l’Alliance Française de San Francisco propose un atelier lecture pour enfants. Le samedi matin tous les quinze jours, de 10h à 11h, Emmanuelle lira et racontera des histoires pour les enfants de langue française, francophones et francophiles, à partir de 5 ans. La lecture se fera en français pour faire découvrir des aventures et des contes de langue française. L'atelier aura lieu dans la bibliothèque de l'Alliance. Les enfants doivent maîtriser le français et être inscrits auprès de la réception (415-775-7755). Enfants membres AFSF: Gratuit. Enfants membres Bay Accueil: $3/enfant. Autres enfants: $6/enfant Auditorium de l’ Alliance, 1345 Bush Street San Francisco, 415.775.7755 or http://www.afsf.com for details.

Saturday mornings: CHOUCHOU, French Bistro, in SAN FRANCISCO. A group of adult working students from City College of San Francisco has organized a conversation group which meets every Saturday from 9:30 to 11:00. All levelswelcome, beginners to native speakers. Address: 400 Dewey at Laguna Honda, across from the Laguna Honda Hospital. San Francisco. To confirm meeting details and for more information, contact Robert at liborsf@sbcglobal.net, or (415) 387-9010.

Saturday mornings: GROUPE DE CONVERSATION A BERKELEY. Un groupe de conversation en français se tient depuis 10 ans à Berkeley, le samedi matin de 9heures 45 à 11 heures 45. Si intéressé, contacter Michele Thorsen au 510-549-1675 ou michouthorsen@aol.com

Second Saturday of the month: FLUENT FRENCH SPEAKERS OF MILL VALLEY. Champagne Café, on Throckmorton right next to the Sequoia Theater. 10am-11am. Write suzanne.toczyski@sonoma.edu for details.

Last Saturday of the month: FRENCH WALK. For all ages. Jogger-Strollers ok. 10am. For meeting place and time, call Fabienne, 415.482.8479 at the latest the night before the walk. If interested, bring a picnic.Last Saturday of each month. FRENCH PLAY TIME AT THE PARK. 10:00 a.m. A growing group of parents and children have started meeting the last Saturday of each month for play time and French conversation at a local park. Not all the children speak French, but they all like to play and will benefit from hearing the language. For more information, call Evelyn at 576-1434 or email to sonprov@sonic.net. Sundays at noon: PETANQUE A JUILLIARD PARK. 211 Santa Rosa Avenue inSanta Rosa. Call Marty Montague at 707.584.0893 for information.

SUNDAY BRUNCH IN FRENCH! Leonard Pitt & Kimberly Vergez are hosting monthly Sunday brunches with French conversation in a “17th-century French cottage” in Berkeley. A variety of Viennoisserie (croissants & other morning pastries) will be provided, plus other treats, fresh juice, mimosa cocktails, steaming pitchers of coffee, steamed milk, chocolate chaud ... all the continental morning delights. Beginners and children are enthusiastically encouraged. All levels of French fluency will be represented, and a cooperative atmosphere of joyful camaraderie will help the shy. Everyone will receive a French flag upon arrival; simply wave it when you need help and more fluent speakers will come to your aid tout de suite. We all know breakfast is the best meal of the day, and what better way than to combine this with French conversation in an atmosphere of fun and conviviality. 9:30am to noon, $20 per person, children welcome at half price. Reservations a must. 510.841.0686 or leonardp@sbcglobal.net for details.<