Southern Fairfield County APIA  host families gathered at the Holiday Inn Select Hotel in Stamford on November 10, 2010  to hear Gail Tomanelli, Regional Representative for Au Pair In America and a former host mother and Community Counselor,  speak about cultures and their impact on our relationships with others.  When we only take into consideration our own cultural values and viewpoints, we can  misinterpret other people’s behavior and attitudes .  In order to effectively interact with people of different cultures, we need to be aware of different cultural practices and perspectives.  It was an interesting and  thought provoking evening and a wonderful opportunity to meet other host families.  A good time was had by all.