Franz Turchi is an economist and was a member of the European Parliament from 1999 to 2004. He is the author of books and articles on economics, including "Why the Euro?" He has lectured at a number of prestigious American universities, including Princeton, Boston University, and UMass Boston. "The Euro's Global Challenges" will clarify the current euro crisis and its implications for a UMass audience and the public.

PIRANDELLO LYCEUM ANNOUNCES THE ANNUAL BEL CANTO ITALIAN OPERA CONCERT, SUNDAY AFTERNOON, JAN. 15, 3:00 PM

The President and Board of Governors of the Pirandello Lyceum, have announced that the Pirandello annual gala Italian opera concert will be presented on Sunday, January 15, 2012 at 3:00 PM and held at the Dante Alighieri Cultural Center, 41 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, MA, (617) 876-5160.

The repertoire for the concert will be entirely Italian. The renowned Boston Bel Canto Opera Company, artistically directed by Bradley Pennington, will present arias from favorite operas such as Cavalleria Rusticana, Tosca and Madama Butterfly.

This exciting Boston Bel Canto Opera event is free to all Pirandello members in good standing. The fee for non-members is $18 ($15 for seniors and students; check payable to the Pirandello Lyceum). You have the option of signing up for a membership at the door and attending the event for free.

Free parking is available for early birds at the Dante Alighieri Cultural Center. Additional parking is available at the Kendall Theater garage at a reduced rate with validation from the Dante. Follow signs to Kendall Theater. For more information about the Pirandello Lyceum log on to www.pirandello.com Contact information: (781) 640-3637; email-pirandellolyceum@aol.com.