The Philadelphia chapter convened 12 members on Sunday evening Jan. 29 at Shiroi Hana, a Japanese restaurant in Center City, to hear about the founding of the city’s first-ever French language film forum, Cinematheque. The president, Amber Lauletta, spoke about plans for the organization, which include growing into a French cultural center in addition to screening the classic and cutting-edge French movies that is its primary role at present. Members were offered a chance to sign up for the periodic newsletter and updates to cinema offerings. Cinematheque is also actively looking for board members to grow the organization, and a few chapter members expressed interest in becoming involved.
The next meeting will be held at 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 20th at Koo Zee Doo, a well-reviewed Portuguese restaurant in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia. The speaker at that time will be French Consul General Danielle Thomas Easton, who will talk about her role in facilitating cultural and economic ties between France and the City of Brotherly Love. Please RSVP to chapter coordinator Jane Berryman at jane.berryman@raymondjames.com no later than May 13th. The family-style meal will consist of a $40 three-course menu of appetizer, main course and dessert, with beverages, tax and tip extra.