Le Rochambeau - octobre 2025

Bonjour à tous,

Fall is in the air, bringing fresh energy and plenty of reasons to gather, celebrate and improve your French. Our fall language educational classes are underway with a wide variety of class offerings.  You can find out more information about our current classes here.

Let’s take a moment to revisit recent highlights and look ahead to what’s coming in October and November.

A Toast to Friendship

Last Saturday evening, Sam and Mathilde once again opened their home for a delightful apéro filled with camaraderie and conversation. Laughter flowed as freely as the wine, and we even managed to capture a group photo amid the merriment. Un grand merci to our gracious hosts!

Book Club Insights

On September 20th, Françoise Mullen led an engaging Book Club discussion at the Richmond Public Library. This month’s selection, The Bonjour Effect, sparked thoughtful dialogue about French culture, communication styles, and the subtle art of conversation. With at least ten members in attendance, the group shared personal reflections on topics ranging from education and praise to the ever-revered French culinary tradition. The book comes highly recommended—especially for those planning a trip to France!

Conversation Group

Last months conversation group was held at Panera and we had a wonderful group in attendance, all working on their French conversational skills.  All are welcome, whatever your level.  You can register for this months October 11th event here.

Upcoming Events

French Family Event

Mark your calendars for October 19th at 2:00 PM! Jamie Wulfekuhle will host a family-friendly gathering at Robious Landing Park (Shelter 3, near the playground). We’ll kick things off with icebreaker games and conversation starters, followed by free play and mingling. The park’s scenic trails and creek offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and fun. You can register here.

The Federation of Alliances Françaises USA Book and Film Discussions

From the Federation of Alliances Françaises USA today, October 1st, L. John Harris discusses Portrait in Red: A Paris Obsession, a true tale of mystery, art, and a discarded portrait on a Paris sidewalk. Registration and details here.

And on October 27th at 7pm, One Film One Federation (OFOF), in collaboration with Telescope Film, presents French Cinémathèque – a celebration of Francophone cinema offering a curated selection of monthly films.  This month's film is Les Diaboliques,  a 1955 French film directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot, based on the novel She Who Was No More by Pierre Boileau and Thomas Narcejac.

Starring Simone Signoret, Véra Clouzot, Paul Meurisse, and Charles Vanel, the story blends thriller and horror. The plot centers on two teachers, the mistress of a married man and his legal wife, who plot to murder the man in question. However, after the crime, the deceased's body disappears, and strange events ensue.  You can register and find more details here.

Annual Members Meeting & Thanksgiving Dinner

Please save the date: November 22nd, late afternoon. Our Annual Members Meeting will include a recap of the past year, a look ahead to 2026, and a festive early Thanksgiving dinner. Just like last year, it promises to be a warm and meaningful gathering. We hope to see you there!

Wishing you a joyful and inspiring October.

Brian Burns

President, Alliance Française of Richmond