In most other years of our program's existence we have hosted the kickoff "Welcome Dinner" on the rooftop and adjoining solarium of our Residence. However, after 3+ years on the French real estate market, the rooftop solarium has been sold to a private owner and is now being transformed into a penthouse suite. Thus, we were forced to venture out to an alternate venue this year. Luckily, our France-based coordinator, Namita, was able to strike a deal with one of the local bocce ball private clubs that I've mentioned in years past here on this blog. (*It should be noted that 'Bocce' is what this game is referred to by Italians - and most Americans I know - but in France the game is called 'Petanque'.) Finally, my longing to be inside one of these exclusive boy clubs (and by "boy" I mean "old man") would become reality.
Although there was no 'petanque' playing during our time within the club's walls, the Club President and his wife - two hilariously adorable Italian expats - offered a free one-time lesson to our students OR, for 5 euros, our students can come play at their club on any Monday, Wednesday, or Friday afternoon throughout our month in Juan Les Pins. They even suggested that for our "Closing Dinner" we come back and grill out on the club's barbecue grill and simultaneously host an inter-program Petanque Competition as entertainment. Apparently they would even try to call the Cote d'Azur publication, Nice Matin, to come photograph and report on our American student Petanque tournament that would run in the famous newspaper. Too funny!
Our students enjoying one another's company and the cuisine.
After only 2 days of the program, I've taught them so well already. Ziploc Baggies to take leftovers back to their apartments!!
The President of the Petanque Club's wife explaining the "Fannie." Anytime a petanque team loses to their opponent 13-0 they must kiss this statuette's fannie as a form of public humiliation after the Club President rings a bell to alert everyone's attention to it.
"Fannie"
The 2012 group along with Mr. and Mrs. Le President featured in front.
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