Passage Spring Shower
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Vehicles will be parked in front of the Gale Mansion to receive your donations of cash, diapers, paper goods, household items, and cleaning supplies.
International Day – Ireland
Cead mile failte – One thousand welcomes to IRELAND
A Journey Through Irish History
9:30-10:30 a.m.
Presidents’ Hall
Speaker: James Silas Rogers, Director of Irish Studies, University of St. Thomas, Editor of The New Hibernia Review
Historian Jim Rogers, known for his scholarship and Irish sense of humor, will take us for a journey through Ireland’s long and diverse history – touching on the country’s emotional, political, cultural and spiritual heritage. We will learn how England’s colonization of Ireland, the Great Famine, the Diaspora, and The Troubles have shaped Ireland’s character and its politics – making it the country it is today. All aboard! -Geri Burns
Ireland’s Influence on the Spoken and Written Word
10:45-11:45 a.m.
Presidents’ Hall
Speaker: Joe Dowling, Director, Guthrie Theater
In ancient times wandering bards roamed Ireland playing their harps and singing stories about their country’s history, thus establishing a literary tradition – and a reputation for being great storytellers. In the following centuries this very small island’s playwrights, novelists, short story writers,poets, essayists, historians, humorists and philosophers have created a huge body of work. Renowned Irish-born director, Joe Dowling, will talk about Ireland’s worldwide influence on the spoken and written word. -Elaine Kirk
Announcements
11:45 a.m. – Noon
Irish Luncheon
12:00-1:15 p.m.
Luncheon Hostess: Shirley Fulmer
Guest Hostess: Virginia Hansing
- New Members – Association Room
- Public Policy – Fellowship Room
Reflections of an Irish American Woman
1:15-2:15 p.m.
Presidents’ Hall
Speaker: Ethna McKiernan, Minnesota Writer and Poet
Ethna McKiernan comes from a well-known Irish American family. She lived in Ireland during her childhood and since then has made 50 trips back. Her award-winning poetry has been published both here and in Ireland. She will tell us how her Irish heritage has influenced her life experiences and her work. In addition, she will read some of her poetry and some by Irish women poets that addresses their shared status as women of Irish blood. -Barbara McKernan