Yankee Trails

02 N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 9 The Villages ® Community yankeetrails.com | 352.633.4643 O C L U B O F T H E M O N T H The Irish American Claddagh Club rganized in September 2007 by residents of The Villages celebrating their Irish heritage, the Irish American Claddagh Club retains nearly 500 members more than a decade later. First formed with intentions to allow residents to enjoy the music and food of their heritage in The Villages, the club's involvement has only ex- panded over its 12-year existence. From "Dine n Dance" events to live concerts with legendary Irish folk singers, the Claddagh Club keeps a full schedule of celebrations and social events for their members year-round. They also make the most out of the beautiful weather of The Villages, holding both ex- ecutive and championship social golf outings. While the club does not sponsor trips to Ireland for their individu- al members, travel partners and couples are often discovered through the relationships kindled within The Villages at Claddagh Club outings. Signified by its "Love, Loyalty, Friendship" slogan, the Claddagh Club conducts their own events and celebrations all while coor- dinating with other Irish heritage groups of The Villages. An inte- gral planner of The Villages' St. Patrick's Day Parade and parties, the Claddagh Club sets the stage for celebrations of heritage every year. While Irish heritage may be quite a tight qualifier for club member- ship, spouses of The Villages are always encouraged to embrace their partner's heritage by becom- ing a member. "My main goal was to create an atmosphere where everyone felt welcome," said Claddagh Club President Ms. Dottie Hockey. Hockey was recently elected Pres- ident after her predecessor held the position for over a decade. In the past, she also served as club Membership Chair. The Irish American Claddagh Club is com- posed entirely of volunteers, com- plete with an elected group of of- ficers that include the President. Membership for The Irish Ameri- can Claddagh Club is always open and interested residents can pay member dues at the next meeting or by mailing a check to Kathleen McNeila at 2495 Flintshire Ave. 32161 in The Villages. Member- ship dues are $15 for new mem- bers and $10 for membership re- newal. Contact Kelly McKiever at kmckiever@yankeetrails.com For more info, visit irishamericancladdagh.com Would you like your group to be featured as Club of the Month?

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