Through colorful resources like toys, dioramas, sleight-of-hand tricks, funny hats, "mystery objects," etc., you will learn basic French. Via lively humorous anecdotes, Rick will share his knowledge of the culture and history of France, the land of his ancestors, which he has visited many times. You will “repeat after me,” learning to pronounce French words and phrases. Through impromptu guided dialogues, you will learn how to politely ask for directions, check into “un hôtel,” order “un café et un croissant,” and locate “les toilets” (an important skill!).

Moderator: Rick Sowash, who is of French ancestry, is a classical composer and the author of eight books.  He publishes his own sheet music, books and CDs.  For seven years, he taught high school French at Leaves of Learning, a Cincinnati alternative school.  He and his wife of 51 years love France and have visited every region of the country.