January 28, 2011

Taste of Nations celebrates international diversity

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- You can experience tastes, sights and sounds of cultures the world over in Carbondale during coming weeks.

Taste of Nations is a celebration of Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s international diversity. University Housing/Residence Hall Dining is collaborating with Chi Alpha Campus Ministry, a registered student organization, to present a series of events and experiences each Thursday beginning Feb. 3 and wrapping up Feb. 24.

The focus each evening will be on different parts of the globe. Throughout the month, you can explore Latin America, China, Japan, Africa, Korea and India -- all on the SIUC campus.

Taste of Nations kicks off at Trueblood Dining Hall 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 3. Participants can view international artifacts, sample cuisine, see native costumes and hear music indigenous to China, Japan and Africa while enjoying snacks from all six nations and cultures.

China is the focus 5-7 p.m. on Feb. 10 at University Hall. A Chinese group will play music and there will be native attire and objects on display.

The action moves to Eastside Express on the upper level of Grinnell Hall at Brush Towers on Feb. 17 from 8 to 10 p.m. An African student ensemble will play drums. While viewing clothing and artifacts you’ll also be able to enjoy snacks from different countries.

It all wraps up at Lentz Dining Hall 5-7 p.m. on Feb. 24. You’ll enjoy live music as representatives from Latin America, China, Japan, Africa, Korea and India display native items and present international recipes and snacks.

There’s no cost to attend the Taste of Nations festivities and everyone is welcome. However, some of the activities take place within the actual residence dining halls and purchase of a meal ticket or use of meal credit is necessary for admittance.

For more information about Taste of Nations 2011, contact Carrie Huntley at 618/453-3788 (e-mail cgalle@siu.edu) or Beth Swartzendruber at 618/521-0112 (e-mail praises44@hotmail.com).