Wishing to say "Happy Thanksgiving" in French? Most commonly you'll hear, "Passez de bonnes fêtes de Thanksgiving." Note that "fêtes" is generally used in the plural in such expressions, similar to the plural used for vacation (i.e., always "de bonnes vacances"). While the French in France have not adopted the holiday, Canadians celebrate their own version of Thanksgiving in October and translate it: "jour de l'action de grâce."  Now test your French by clicking here to read French Morning's rather amusing interpretation of five "questions bêtes" to explain to French people the traditions of TV-watching, Black Friday, etc.: "« Pourquoi la dinde » et autres questions bêtes sur Thanksgiving."      

The Alliance will hold its holiday Portes Ouvertes (Open House) event on Thursday, December 11 from 6:15 pm to 7:45 pm.  No reservations are necessary to attend - simply stop by the historic Kamm House at 1425 SW 20th Avenue to visit with teachers, chat with staff members, register for classes (the Winter term begins January 5), learn more about upcoming events and, for those who aren't already members, learn about the perks of an Alliance membership. Note: the Open House is also the deadline for getting 10% off class fees. The Open House event will feature a variety of refreshments including a sampling of gourmet chocolates from Alliance member Cristina Yen's company (A Yen for Chocolate). 

The first two weeks of December offer a number of short workshops and Jan-March is the full winter term. Click here for the updated class list for Dec. 1-13 which includes an additional option for Kickstarting Your French. Also note that the Intermediate and Advanced lunchtime conversation ('Déjeuner-Causerie') is now available  "à la carte" (sign up for one or more).  The schedule for the full 10-week Winter Term (Jan.-March) is currently available as a directory in PDF format (click here for that file which includes schedules for all classes - adults and children's). Shortly after the holidays that schedule will also be online.  

Thanks to generous supporters at the Alliance's spring fundraiser, a scholarship fund was established to help families with young students (ages 6-11) participate in Alliance group classes that are held after school or on Saturday mornings. Scholarship applications are now being accepted for the winter term of 2015. The scholarship amounts are $100 and can be applied toward the cost of group classes and books (membership must be paid separately). Applications will be submitted online; email lindaw@afportland.org for links and further information. Note that applications must be submitted by a parent or guardian, and must be emailed no later than Dec. 20, 2014, for consideration for the winter term (Jan.-March, 2015).