UT's long-running Spanish language table held it's second meeting of the semester on Friday, Jan. 16. at 5 p.m.  La Tertulia meets every Friday at Cool Beans Bar and Grill, and usually lasts until 6 or 7 p.m.

The table is open to anyone wishing to practice their speaking skills, including beginners, native speakers and faculty from the university's Spanish department.  One common face is Dr. Gregory Kaplan, professor of Spanish.  He is responsible for creating La Tertulia.

"We started this back in 1995, my first year here at Tennessee," said Kaplan.  "La Tertulia is actually a tradition that goes back to the 18th century, where it was a gathering of intellectuals discussing literature and politics," he added.

Kaplan emphasized that a much more informal environment was his goal.  "It was important to provide an opportunity for people to practice Spanish somewhere out of the classroom, and we decided to have it in a bar since it was much more relaxed," he explained.

On any given night, there are some regulars, but also new faces.  "Some years it has been more popular than others, but we always have a good time" commented Kaplan. 

The next meeting will be Friday Jan. 23.