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Most Daltaí events are held at the Marist Retreat Center in Esopus, New york. This was once a family estate years ago and it s on the banks of the Hudson. It was originally used by the Marists as the novitiate for young men studying to be Marist Btothers. The rooms are dorms. Some beds are bunkbeds, some singles. Meals are served cafeteria style. The food is good but there is not a choice of menu Your server may be a student from one of the Marist schools who volunteer to work there. Classes are small and the building has lots of areas suitable for small groups, In summer, they may be outdoors. Classes last about 1 1/2 hrs and there is class Sat and Sunday a.m and Saturday afternoon. Friday night, there are small informal classes in phrases and singing especiallly good for beginners but open to all. A general meeting follows where sudents meet their teachers and classmate and a general idea of weekend events is given. Everyone receives a printed packet at check-in which includes a printed schedule. After that, those who wish can socialize. No meals are served on Friday since people arrive at vavious times. Some eat out and others bring a lunch. There is a snack table and guests bring fruit, cookies, chips, etc to be shared over the weekend and tea and coffee are available thruout the day and evening. There is some refrigeration available and you may bring your own beer, wine, soda or bottled water.All of the teachers are volunteers but accomplished. Most have the fainne oir. The ard rang teacher will be from Ireland. There are classes in singing, dancing, etc. when class isn't on and plenty of time to relax, study, or explore the area, The grounds are beautiful, the brothers very welcoming and helpful but they leave us to our own devices and do not involve themselves in our events. Mass in Irish is read on Saturday evening for those who wish to attend. Further information is on the Daltaí forum under events
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