The Pacer

Issue date: 3/27/07 Section: Campus News

Media Credit: Will York

The public is invited to sample foods from a variety of countries at the 32nd Annual International Food Fair, noon-1 p.m., April 3, in Duncan Ballroom in the UC.

The Office of International Admissions and Tennessee Intensive English Program is sponsoring the event to give UTM's international community the opportunity to share a part of their cultures with faculty, staff, students and local residents. Students from Africa, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas and Asia will prepare food from their native countries.

Groups usually prepare small portions so guests can sample many different dishes at a nominal cost. Soft drinks and bottled water will be available. The students are encouraged to wear native dress, and some groups include recorded music in their presentations.

Percussion performances are planned by Dr. Julie Hill and members of the UT Martin Percussion Ensemble, and special guest performer, Dr. Evaristo Aguilar, from Universidad Autonoma de Tamaulipas in Tampico, Mexico. Music from Egypt, Italy, Africa, Mexico and Brazil will be featured.

"The International Food Fair is the highlight of the year for international programs faculty, staff and students," said John Mathenia, UTM instructor of English as a Second Language. "It takes a lot of preparation and work to put it all together, but it is a labor of love. We all share the work and have a great time at the food fair." He added, "This year, we are excited to have Dr. Hill and her percussion students, as well as, Dr. Aguilar provide great music. This is the first time we have had music performed as part of the event."

As part of International Week, an international percussion participative workshop and international student forum are among events scheduled for the University of Tennessee at Martin's International Week. All events are on UT Martin's campus.

The UT Martin Center for Global Studies and International Education and Percussion Studio are co-sponsoring a workshop from 5:30-7 p.m., April 2, in Watkins Auditorium. The workshop will also be led by Evaristo Aguilar, and participants will prepare a selection with Aguilar.

The forum is co-sponsored by the Center for Global Studies and International Education, the Student Government Association and the International Student Association. It is slated for 8-9 p.m., April 3, in Room 111, of Boling University Center and will feature an international student panel discussing current topics such as the Korean standoff and issues related to Iran and Iraq.

Each event is free and open to the public.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools