Emily Costello's Artwork and Life |
Hispanic and Latino Culture |
ASU Jhankaar |
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Audio Slideshow
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McClelland Irish Library
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The Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library is cultural gem in downtown Phoenix. Adorned in Limestone shipped straight from Ireland, this castle like landmark catches everyone’s eye. As you stroll through the harp laced gates you are transported five thousand miles away to the Celtic wonderland. The Irish Cultural center provides numerous classes, events and activates all centered around educating and enriching people’s understanding of Irish culture.
One of those activities is Currach rowing, a traditional Irish row boat, is provided for people of all ages to join. The Currach team take their boats, traditionally made with animal skins stretched out over wooden frames, onto Tempe town lake. Participants can choose to compete or simply row for fun all the while learn about the rich history of this type of rowing that takes sail in both fresh and saltwater. Rowing not your thing? Not a problem! There are many other ways to participate and learn. Join the art of Ceili dance, a series of typically six different group dances that fills a room with laughter and joyous movements. The cultural center provides this activity once a month on the third Friday in there Great Hall. Even if you’ve never danced before, the Irish cultural center welcomes newcomers with open arms explaining that they will walk you through step by step until the moves are solidified in their minds, only then will they pick up the pace and really call it dancing. The Irish Cultural Center is a family friendly facility with activities poised for the little ones, including their “Family Story Hour.” This takes place the in the McClelland Library every first Saturday of every month. Stories written by Irish authors or books about Irish traditions are read to children and their parents by Diane Ahern, the host of this relaxing one and a half hour event. In December stories centered around Christmas, such as “The Christmas Pups” and “Adam saves Christmas” will be read off in the spirit of the holidays. Wondering if you have any Irish relatives in your family tree? Well, you are in luck. The McClelland Library provides all the tools you need in their genealogy center. Docents are available to assist their visitors on a journey in search for any Irish roots. This service is provided for free for members and is only $5 dollars for non-members. If you are interested, don’t hesitate to call 602-864-2353 or [email protected] , as appointments are recommended. Want to volunteer, become a member or simply participate in any of the many activities provided? Feel free to visit their website: http://www.azirish.org/ - Go raibh maith agat
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