Archives

2017

Jan. 2, 2017 - Mimi teaches Sheleg Al Iri at Leedy Grange.

2016

Nov. 20, 2016 - Vintage Israeli folk dancing with Donna at Fulton, so much fun!

Recap: Nov. 7, 2016 - Dancers learn Al Sadenu at Leedy Grange with Sue & Friends.

Recap: Oct. 17, 2016 - Dancers at Leedy Grange pause to take note of repertoire.

Recap: Oct. 4, 2016 - Cafe Shalom dance and celebrate birthdays too.

Recap: Sept. 5, 2016 - IFD at Leedy Grange with Sue & Friends

Ve David. IFD at Leedy Grange with Sue & Friends, Sept. 5. And thank you Benita for teaching Adama Veshamayim. Lookin' good. Havin' fun. Meets 1st & 3rd Mondays.

Recap: Aug. 1 & 15. In photos below Melinda Holtzman teaches the modern version of Hine Ma Tov, with all its hand variations. Leedy Grange, on Aug. 1. We will review it again at our next session Aug. 15. The dance is a blast! August 15 guest teacher Ruti Kenan will teach more fun line dances, including Zodiac!

Leedy Grange Israeli folk dancing with Sue & Friends is sizzling! On the very warm night of Monday Aug. 15th Ruti taught Zodiac and Melinda reviewed Hine Ma Tov - Modern. We will meet on Mon. Sept. 5. Stay tuned for guest teacher details.

Recap: July 3, 2016. IndepenDANCE fun at Fulton!

Recap: Sun., June 26, 2016 - (from Jeff Baker)

Recap: Mon., June 20, 2016 - Dancing at Leedy Grange with Sue & Friends.

Very special session: Mimi taught the beautiful dance Likrat Shabbat,

AND Nurit led/reviewed all the dances that she has taught so far, with a focus on Shir Al Etz.

Recap: June 16, 2016 - Cafe Shalom Dancers at Robison

Recap: June 13, 2016 - Israeli folk dancing at Leedy Grange with Sue & Friends

Recap: May 20, 2016 - Allison leads dancing at Kol Ami in Vancouver, May 20th.

This is the second year she has visited Kol Ami. Photo Lynne Chassin.

Recap: May 16, 2016 - Marna joins in at Leedy Grange

Marna Kleinman Snyder (upper photo at left) joined in our group on May 16!!! She was visiting from Israel.

As you may recall, Marna is considered the "mother of Israeli folk dance" here in Portland, and for many of us (including me) was our first mentor and teacher. David reviewed Katonti (middle photo in center) and Mimi led Ba'er Basadeh (bottom center).

Recap: HAPPY BIRTHDAY BILL NELSON!

(Excerpt from PIFD News History page) . . . Bill has been involved with International [and Israeli] folk dance since the 1960s and was a session leader of International dance at Fulton Park Community Center in SW Portland. He also arranged for Israeli folk dancing in the amphitheater in Washington Park. Dancers still remember how special it was to dance under the stars.

Bill is leading at left in the photo. He remains an avid teacher and dancer today at Fulton and Reed.

We wish you many years of dancing!

Recap: May 13-15 2016 - Vancouver, BC

B’lev Echad Workshop with Rafi Ziv

http://www.vancouverisraelidance.com/SpecialEvents.html

Recap: Tues., May 10, 2016 - Fellow dancer Nurit Arton Kahana helped to organize the

Yom Hazikaron Commemoration

Recap: Wed., May 11, 2016 - Yom Ha'Atzmaut Celebration and dancing with Allison

We celebrated Israel’s 68th year of Independence with Israeli music, dance, crafts, food and more at the MJCC. Yes, that is Marna ("mother of Israeli folk dancing" in Portland, in the photo below, visiting from Israel) at the way back center in grayish top! Bottom photo left is graceful Nurit. Marna, Sue and Esther at bottom right selfie.

Recap - April 2016: Israeli folk dancing at Leedy Grange: As you can see we had a great time on 4/18. Thank you David for teaching Katonti and Sue taught Tzur Mishelo. Next 2-hour sessions are Mon., May 2 beginning at 7:30pm and May 18 at 7 pm. Photo by Sue.

Recap: Mon., March 21 - Mimi Epstein teaches at Leedy Grange

What a great time we had last night 3/21! Here is a photo of Mimi Epstein teaching the classic dance Be'er Basadeh. She also taught the graceful dance Dror Yikra.

Looking forward to our extra session next Monday 3/28. Remember, extra sessions start at 7:30 pm and go til 9:30.

April dancing is extra session Mon. 4/11 7:30 to 9:30;

and regular 3rd Mon. 4/18 session is 7 to 9 pm.

Let's dance!

Sue

Recap: Mon., Feb. 29 - Extra session at Leedy is well received by

regular monthly dancers. Debbi Montrose teaches Adama Veshamaayim

Debbi teaches Adama Veshamayim to an enthusiastic and talented group at our extra session on Feb. 29.

(Photo by Sue)

Recap: Thurs., Feb. 18 - Cafe Shalom Dancers entertained residents at Robison

Dancers Mimi, Melinda,Linda, and Bonnie take a break.

(Photos by Sue.)

A dedicated group of dancers energetically entertained residents on Feb. 18th. Four dancers from Leedy Grange helped round out the Cafe Shalom Dancers group. During the transition of Melba's retirement, Debbi, Sue, and Duane handled details. A big thank you to the Cafe Shalom Dancers: Debbi, Duane, Tamera, Brian, and Linda; and to Leedy Grange dancers: Bonnie, Mimi, Melinda, and Sue, who helped round out the group.

From Debbi: Our wonderful Cafe Shalom Dancers' coordinator Melba Davidson - for more than 20 years - is “retiring.” Melba has done such a Mitzvah in organizing our monthly entertainment for residents of Rose Schnitzer Manor and Robison Health Center, and words can never thank her enough for all she has done over the years.

Melba has encouraged me to help with the transition and to work with Jennifer at Robison to provide the much loved entertainment. Jennifer is so happy to see that the group continues.

The Cafe Shalom Dancers continue with every other month on the third Thursday for dancing entertainment and schmoozing with residents of Robison Health Center. Our next scheduled program is for Thurs. April 21, 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Please contact Debbi Montrose for further info. debbirm@aol.com

(Photo of Melba clipped from http://orjewishlife.com/they-make-you-feel-like-dancing/)

Recap: Mon., Feb. 15, 2016

Leedy Grange IFD filled with energy and grace!

Photo by Sue.

Recap: Sun. Feb. 14, 2016

Wedding Celebration at Fulton celebrating the marriage of Jon and Elizabeth

Photos by Candy. See album at Facebook "Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR"

Along with dancing and cheer at Fulton, catered Kosher Israeli food, salads, hummus, chocolates and beverages were served at the celebration. A photo of the Bride and Groom were at the entrance, where all guests wrote their best wishes to the couple. Congratulations to Jon & Elizabeth

Recap: Sun., Jan. 31, 2016

Vintage dancing at Fulton. Thank you Donna for this fun and nostalgic evening!

Photos by Sue Wendel. See more on FB. I Israeli Folk Dancing in Posraeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR.

Recap: Mon., Jan. 18, 2016

Recap: Tues., Jan. 19, 2016

Our youngest new dancer Abigail, with Allison at Cafe Shalom.

2015

Recap: Mon., Dec. 21, 2015 Leedy Grange.

Look at all the dances we have learned in 2015.

Participants made decorations, ate Chanukah foods and danced with Allison. (Photo courtesy Lynne)

Recap: Sun., Nov. 22, 2015 - Having fun dancing at Fulton with Donna.

(Photo courtesy Yardena)

Recap: Thurs., Nov. 19, 2015 - Café Shalom Dancers

entertained residents at the Robison Health Center, 6:30 pm.

Next performance is scheduled for Jan. 21. Confirm with Melba.

The Café Shalom dancers entertain the residents at

The Robison Health Center the third Thursday every other month.

Dance visitors are always welcome to watch and to mingle

with residents afterwards. The dance program is 6:30 to 7:30 pm.

For further info please contact Melba. See great photos of dancers

with the residents on Sept. 17 on our Facebook page.

Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR.

Recap: Nov. 17, 2015 - Cafe Shalom

Welcome for a visit to Jon Didner, Allison & Happy Birthday to Santi, and welcome back

from Israel Santi and Malena! Photos courtesy Debbi.

At the Nov. 16 session. We sure had fun and

our repertoire is growing! With Lynne, Sue,

Melinda, Debbi, and Bonnie (Mimi not pictured).

Sue taught Debka Kafrit, and Debbi taught

Od Yavo Shalom Aleinu - Salaam. We meet the

3rd Monday of each month.

From Aura Levin Lipski: Dear Portland friends, It's my pleasure to wish you Chag Sameach and send you our list of Chanukah Songs and Dances at http://www.jewishaustralia.com/chanukah-songsanddances.asp. But as I do so, may I remind you of what Portland has that is unique in the world: GARY FOX. Please make sure this guy gets extra Latkes!!!!

Oct. 2015 - Kathy Rance starts dance group in Florida

Recently I was contacted by a long-time friend who used to live in Portland.

She wanted to start a dance session and we talked about how to go about doing that.

Here is a photo I just received, and I am pleased to share with all. - Sue Wendel

A note from Kathy:

Hi Sue. We had so much fun last night [Oct 25]. It went better than I had hoped. We had a little

over 20 people . . . at Temple Emanu-El. We learned Mayim, Ma Navu, Sham Harei Golan

and Hora Chadera. I am attaching a picture of most of the group. Thanks for all of your help.

Talk to you soon.

Kathy

Kathy is in the center, black top.

Oct. 2015: Dancers from Tucson remind us "we are together in dance."

Oct. 2015: Family Shabbat and Dancing at Kol Ami with Allison --

Fri. Oct. 16 Allison Victor led Israeli folk dancing at Congregation Kol Ami in Vancouver. A short family Shabbat service started at 6 pm, followed by a potluck dinner, and dancing. From the looks of it, everyone had a great time! Photos by Lynne Chassin,

Thank you Gary for sending this info about songs and dances

connected to the upcoming holidays.

From Aura Levin Lipski: Dear Portland friends, It's my pleasure to wish you Chag Sameach and send you our list of Chanukah Songs and Dances at http://www.jewishaustralia.com/chanukah-songsanddances.asp. But as I do so, may I remind you of what Portland has that is unique in the world: GARY FOX. Please make sure this guy gets extra Latkes!!!!

For a list of songs and dances connected to the upcoming holidays, see http://www.hebrewsongs.com/festivals.htm. It has links to pages for Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot, and the song links have the words and links to israelidances.com for the dance info.

And as always, http://www.hebrewsongs.com/bible_songs.asp has the songs and dances for upcoming Shabbats and holidays where the words come from the Bible or the Talmud.

B'YACHAD 2015 - Another great year!!

See more photos at: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.894107620672625.1073741849.384857678264291&type=3&notif_t=like

From Debbi: Hello B'YACHAD '15 dancers,

As B'YACHAD '15 settles in our hearts, it is with gratitude from me to you for helping make the weekend another amazing experience, and hope that by now you're back into life as usual and carrying that great energy home to do good for our world in your own way.

Following is a link to the great dances we learned, and next Friday I will speak to the Schechter administrators to finish up loose ends and will most likely hear when camp has availability if you'd like to do it again in 2016!

We will be sending all the dancers who attended a survey of sorts so that you can fill out to help me and our team of dance leaders know your thoughts, suggestions and critiques so that we can make B'YACHAD even better if that's possible.

Again, couldn't do it without you, best regards now and always,

- Debbi

DANCES TAUGHT AT B’YACHAD 2015

http://portlandisraelidance.com/?page_id=153

Some quotes from dancers: "Debbi, this was the best camp i have attended. you are the best leader

see you next year . . . Consider me a B’Yachad lifer! I’m already looking forward to B’Yachad 2016. What fun I had!

July 28, 2015 Cafe Shalom celebrates 15 years!

July 19, 2015 Debbie Samuels (at right on first photo) pays a visit to Fulton

Thurs, July 16, 2015 Cafe Shalom Dancers entertained

Robison Health Center residents

See story featured in the May issue of Oregon Jewish Life

http://orjewishlife.com/they-make-you-feel-like-dancing/

The Café Shalom dancers entertain the residents at

The Robison Health Center the third Thursday every other month.

Dance visitors are always welcome to watch and to mingle

with residents afterwards. The dance program is 6:30 to 7:30 pm.

For further info please contact Melba.

July 5, 2015 Dancers at Fulton Cool Down with Pops

Israeli folk dancers at Fulton cool down with popsicles. Donna explained that on the hot nights in Israel, the leader would bring them to cool off the dancers. Jeff said, "It was so much fun and really brought us together in friendship. Donna was amazing for doing this!" (Selfie/Photo submitted by Jeff of course!)

May 25, 2015 - Dancing at Leedy Grange with Sue and Friends

Our repertoire continues to grow! Thank you Nurit (top photo at left) for teaching Yedid Nefesh,

and Debbi (bottom photofront) for teaching Od Yavo Shalom Aleinu, among others!

Next sessions are Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30 pm. 7/20, 8/24, 9/21.

May 2015 Vancouver Israeli Folk Dance Festival with Elad Shtamer

Thank You Yardena Porat!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ehi0BgXSd58&feature=youtu.be

Photo capture courtesy Yardena Porat.

Thurs, May 21 Cafe Shalom Dancers entertained

Robison Health Center residents

See story featured in the May issue of Oregon Jewish Life

http://orjewishlife.com/they-make-you-feel-like-dancing/

The Café Shalom dancers performed for the residents at

The Robison Health Center May 21st.

Guests and visitors are always welcome to watch and to mingle

with residents afterwards. Dancing was 6:30 to 7:30 pm, and is every other month.

For info contact Melba.

Thurs., May 14, 6 pm, Eric Singer led dancing at

Elmonica Elem. 4th International Culture Fair

A large crowd participated in easy and fun dances. Dance

helpers were Esther Oulman Carver, Debbi Montrose,

Dorothy Sharar, and Sue Wendel.

This is a note from Mary Gibson who organized the fair at Elmonica sent to Eric et al. - I just now have time to write you a note to tell you how great your dancing was for our school. I had had more people asking if we were going to have Israeli dancing that THEY COULD JOIN IN ON from LAST YEAR!

Isn't dancing the greatest "Barrier Breaker"?!!!

You guys are AWESOME for making time in your schedules to do that for us! Sincerely, Mary Gibson and "All of Elmonica!"

[Last year photo 2014. Note: correct email address is eric@smoothwaltz.com]

Sun., May 10, 2015 - Marna with Jon Israeli folk dancing at Fulton.

Marna Klienman-Snyder, "the Mother of Israeli folk dance in Portland," dances with longtime dancer Jon Zingeser. Marna, who lives in Israel, was here for a visit. She was last in Portland for the 40th Anniversary celebration in 2013. For a history, see the history page on this site. Photo courtesy Debbi Montrose.

Recaps: April / March 2015

Recap: Mon. April 27, 2015 - Israeli folk dancing at Leedy Grange

Leedy Grange IFD April 27 -- Thank you Nurit for reviewing Yedid Nefesh and Mocher Prachim and for teaching Balada L'amayan. And thank you Debbi for teaching Od Yavo Shalom Aleinu. Other dances taught and reviewed by Sue are in the photo. Next Leedy Grange IFD is Mon. May 25!

Wed., April 22, 2015 - Yom Ha'Atzmaut celebration

with Israeli dance party. All ages had a great time! See more

on FB Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR

Wed., April 22, 2015 - Yom Ha'Atzmaut celebration at Ahavath Achim

Yom HaAtzmaut party at Ahavath Achim on April 22, at 8:30 pm. Israeli food and dancing circle and couples.

Everyone had a great time! Photos courtesy Susan Swank

March 30, 2015 - Dancing at Leedy Grange in Cedar Mill

We had a great time dancing last night March 30. Thank you for coming!

Our repertoire is growing each month. To date we have learned: Zemer Atik, Hinei Ma Tov, Hora Hava Nagila, Sham Harei Golan, Debka Deluna, Mayim, Ma Navu, Mocher Prachim, Yedid Nefesh, Harishut, Debka Lahat, and Yevarechecha. Thank you special teachers Gary Fox (1/26/15) and Nurit Arton Kahana (3/30/15).

Much appreciated is Lynne Chassin, Nurit Arton Kahana, and Bonnie Bliesner who pitch in to help run things.

Our next session is Monday, April 27, 7:30-8:30 beginning instruction; 8:30 to 9:30 review and open dance.

Thurs., March 19, 2015 - Cafe Shalom Dancers

entertained Robison Health Center residents

Cafe Shalom Dancers, led by Melba Davidson, share the joy of Israeli folk dancing and entertain residents at the Robison Health Center Thursday, March 19 as part of 20 years of entertaining there every other month. Pictured from left to right Avi Tayar and Melba Davidson, Esther Carver and Duane Robbins, Deborah Friedman and Brian Davis with Jeff Baker in back ground. Not pictured Tamara Patrick, Donna Cole and Deb Montrose. Photo Deb Montrose.

Guests and visitors are always welcome to watch and to

mingle with residents afterwards. Dancing is 6:30 to 7:30 pm, every other month.

Schedule may vary. For details or to confirm date and time, please contact Melba.

Fri., March 20, 2015 - Kol Ami Shabbat services and folk dancing

Eric Singer led Israeli folk dancing at Congregation Kol Ami in Vancouver, WA on Fri. March 20, following a short family Shabbat service at 6 pm and pot luck dinner. For details please contact Melinda

mjholtzman@comcast.net

http://jewishvancouverusa.org/

Jan. & Feb. 2015 Recaps

Feb. - Israeli Folk Dancing at Leedy Grange holds very first session Jan. 26.

then Feb. 16th and upcoming March 30th.

Gary Fox teaches Yevarechecha to dancers Bob, Stephanie, Lynne and Bill.

(Debbi, Bonnie, and Sue not pictured). Photo Sue Wendel

Jan. 26, 2015 marks the first session of Israeli folk dancing at Leedy Grange in Cedar Mill. Seven dancers ranging from beginners to advanced joined in. Sue Wendel taught beginners Zemer Atik, Hinei Ma Tov, Hora Hava Nagila, Sham Harei Golan, and Harishut. Then guest teacher Gary Fox taught Debka Lahat, Yevarechecha, and a mixed version of slow and fast Harishut. "The format for this new session is inspired by Mimi Epstein's group Tyklos at Reed, which takes a team approach," explains Sue. "In the future, I hope to invite other guest teachers to come and team-teach and lead." The next session will be Feb. 16, 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Dancing at Leedy Grange is made possible by support from the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland.

Feb. 16, 2015 was the second session. We reviewed the dances learned in Jan. and had three new dancers join us. Then, Debbi led us in open dancing of many wonderful oldies. We will meet again March 30th.

__________

Feb. 2015 - Cindy Merrill teaches and leads folk dancing at Havurah Shalom wedding

Cindy dancing with bride and guests. Photo courtesy Cindy Merrill

A friend of Cindy's was getting married in January, and she asked Cindy to teach "Israeli Dancing 101" to her friends and family right after her Aufruf luncheon. Cindy taught the beginner dances Hora, Mayim Mayim, Nigun Atik, and Hinei Ma Tov. Then the next day at her friend's wedding, Cindy led these dances. "It's fun to get more people comfortable with Israeli dancing!" says Cindy.

__________

Feb. 2015 - Bill Nelson revives folk dancing for Reed students

From Becca Nelson

Folk dancing has played an integral part in Bill Nelson’s life since his college days at Reed College. Students from all areas of academia would come together and folk dance for hours into the night two times a week! Presently, Bill wants to spark that same interest among Reedies again by teaching Israeli and other folk dances in a PE class every Sunday from 3:30-5:30 pm. He will be doing this for the rest of the year. He hopes to develop student leaders to carry on a weekly session in the future. Here is how Bill describes the class:

“Folk dancing, first and foremost, is about the joy of moving to music, combined with the celebration of community. The dances are usually done in a line or circle, giving the novice dancer the support of fellow dancers on either side.

. . . [Representing cultures through time from around the world] one has to feel a great sense of awe for the transformational power of cultural diversity as an agent of creativity. Hopefully, these words will make more sense [to students at Reed] once you have learned the many dances that have resulted from the Greek hora’s remarkable journey.”

Editor's note:Many dancers today danced with Bill and Marna Kleinman-Snyder, too, in the early 1970s. They were an inspiration. We wish Bill all the best!

Feb. 2015 - Ravid and Arlene Say Hi from sunny CA

fyi - Arlene has helped to start a Jewish Dance Special Interest Group at her synagogue, B'Nai B'rith, which attracted 12 people at the first meeting in Feb. The group will focus on 3 types of Jewish Dance (Yiddish, Israeli, and liturgical) and will work on activities that are educational, recreational, and/or spiritual to achieve our mission. I’m hoping that the group’s activities will increase people’s knowledge about, interest in, and participation in Jewish dance. I’m quite excited about the possibilities for increasing Jewish dance in Santa Barbara through this Special Interest Group.

Dances for Purim 2015

Purim is coming the evening of March 4. Here is some info from Gary:

-- To see almost 40 songs for Purim with words, English translations, transliterations and the 16 that have dances, look athttp://www.jewishaustralia.com/purim-songsanddances.asp. There’s a lot more than Al Hanisim.

There are similar pages for most holidays at http://www.hebrewsongs.com/festivals.htm. Aura and I have been updating them this year and we expect to get Pesach ready soon.

Sun., Jan. 25, 2015 - Vintage Israeli Dancing at Fulton Park Community Center on January 25, 2015.

Let's all get together and dance those old favorites! Vintage dances 7:30 to 10:30 pm. Open dancing til 11:15. $5.

______

December 2014 Recaps

New Year's 2015 Israeli dance party with Avi included circle and couples dances,

with light refreshments and a midnight toast. Photo courtesy Jeff Baker.

Dancing and celebrating Chanukah and Cindy's birthday on

Tues. 16 & 23, 2014 with Allison at Cafe Shalom. See more photos on Facebook.

Dancing and celebrating Chanukah on

Sun. Dec., 21, 2014 with Donna at Fulton.

Dancing, waltzing, and celebrating Chanukah on Mon. Dec., 22, 2014

with Eric and Dorothy at Lenora's Ballroom.

November 2014 Recaps

2014 Dancing in Israel with Esther and Deborah!

From Esther Carver: Steve and I are enjoying life in Haifa, Israel! He is on sabbatical from work and we get to spend 7 weeks here! I am dancing as much as possible! Here are pictures of dancing at the beach at Hof Carmel. Yaron Carmel led the dances that night. I introduced myself and told him I was from Portland, Oregon. I asked him if he knew Donna Cole and he said, "Of course!"

Yael Amid danced with us when she lived in Portland. She moved back to Israel in 2011. We met for lunch!

Thursday nights are very fun at the Technion! They have sessions led by Elad Perel in larger dance area. When couples dancing starts, circle dancing and instruction continue in smaller space upstairs with Galia and Orpaz.

Nava Peled is another Portland dancer living back in Israel. We went to Monday night dance together. It is circle and line dance only led by a very fun and energetic teacher, Ilan.

Sept. / Oct. 2014 Recaps

See these album photos on our Facebook page Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR

FROM DEBBI:

RE: ROSH HASHANA SEDER EVENT,

Thursday, Oct. 2, 2014 at the MJCC - THANK YOU's!

A hearty THANK YOU TO EVERYONE* who helped me to create this first-time ever idea for Portland AND TO ALL OF YOU WHO ATTENDED; this could not have happened WITH OUT EACH OF YOU!

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS; THE SCHUSTERMAN FAMILY FOUNDATION and THE MJCC.

From a simple idea "to be creative with a Rosh Hashana Seder" requested from an initiative by the Schusterman Family Foundation, we created an event that I hope inspires us all to imbue activities in the future with HOPE FOR PEACE in this world. To me, no matter how big or small, we can only wish that our actions build and pass forward, to make a difference as they will.

*My Sincere Thanks again go to ALL OF YOU WHO ATTENDED and to:

- Schusterman Family Fund for offering the micro grant for my idea and providing the kit with information for the seder "hagadah" that we adapted;

- Avi, Donna, Nurit and Boas for discussing the original concept with me;

- Sue and Donna for flyer development; and all dance leaders for publicity;

- Yafit for translation of flyer to Hebrew;

- Eric and Debbi for organizing "volunteers brigade": Robert, Rob, Jeff, Sue, Lynne, Ruti Kenan, Abby, Sarah, Elise, Rut Hen, Marah- thank you so much for your help setting up, cleaning up and with welcoming guests;

- Allen Levin of Century Catering for preparing the delicious symbolic seder foods;

- Debbi and Avi for leading the Seder;

- Alan Montrose for incredible Shofar blasts!;

- Donna, Avi, Warren for creating the dance list and sing-a-long we so enjoyed after the Seder;

- Allison for leading wonderful open dance afterward in the gym;

- Bethany West and Laurie Fendel and the MJCC for your support and encouragement!

Hag Sameach,See you soon on the dance floor and elsewhere, and again with such appreciation for helping me to create a wonderful and meaningful event.

-Debbi Montrose

Please see lots of photos on Facebook: Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR

P.S. Note from Sue: There are many ways to connect folk dancing to Jewish holidays. If you would be interested in planning, for example, a Chanukah event, Debbi would be happy to advise. Contact her at debbirm@aol.com

Aug / July / June 2014 Recaps

Sunday, Aug. 31. 2014 - Classic dancing in Beaverton

On Sunday, August 31, over 15 dancers enjoyed two hours of classic Israeli folk dancing at the Beaverton Ballroom. Gary Fox, Jon Zingeser, Sue Wendel, and Nurit Arton Kahana led and/or taught dances including Ma Navu, Mayim, Hora Medura, Hava Nagila (couples version), Bat Teiman, Eten Bamidbar, and Rona, to name just a few. Help and support was provided by dancers Debbi Montrose (greeter), Boaz Kahana (tech support), Bonnie Bleisner (floater helper), David Zingeser (kids crate paper wrist bands), and Andrea Nero Jones, manager of Beaverton Ballroom. (Photos by Sue Wendel and Boaz Kahana)

Thank you to all the participant dancers and volunteers! We’ll keep you posted about future classic dancing in Beaverton!

Aug 15-17, 2014 -- B"YACHAD Northwest 2014 was enjoyed by all!

To see all the photos Candi took please go to Facebook "Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR"

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Israeli-Folk-Dancing-in-Portland-OR/384857678264291?sk=photos_stream

From Nona Malki:

Ba'Yachad Northwest, 2014 Israeli Dance Weekend was held this past weekend at Camp Solomon Schechter retreat, near Olympia, Washington.

Dancers and families spent a wonderful weekend together at this amazingly beautifully serene and spiritual venue. Old friends & new met to spend a perfect weekend together with perfect weather & plenty of dancing!

This camp is directed by Debbi Montrose and thanks to her hard work and lovely vision, B’Yachad was again great and successful!

Our 2014 dance staff (teachers/ markidim)

Portland: Donna Cole & Avi Tayar

Seattle: Dianne Casper, Ellie Morhaime, Esti Livni & Gail Levy

Vancouver: Nona Malki

LA: William Harvey

New Jersey: Special Guest: Mitch Ginsburgh

Dances taught:

Matanot Ktanot: Gadi Bitton

Achshav Karov (p) : Gadi Bitton

Halev: Gadi Bitton

Romeio (p): Nona Malki

Vilner Gaon: Mitch Ginsburgh

Rak Kan: Oren Ashkenazi

LeYeled Haze Hitpalalti: Oren Ashkenazi

Special appreciation goes out to...

Rachel Stern- ever popular Yoga class by the lake

Cindy Droker- Children’s dance session

Thurs. Aug. 21, 2014 - Cafe Shalom Dancers

Cafe Shalom Dancers entertained residents at Cedar Sinai Park. They share dances the third Thursday of each month.

6:45 to 7:45 pm. Schedule may vary. For details please contact Melba or Duane.

Aug 15-17, 2014 -- B"YACHAD Northwest 2014 was enjoyed by all!

To see all the photos Candi took please go to Facebook "Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR"

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Israeli-Folk-Dancing-in-Portland-OR/384857678264291?sk=photos_stream

From Nona Malki:

Ba'Yachad Northwest, 2014 Israeli Dance Weekend was held this past weekend at Camp Solomon Schechter retreat, near Olympia, Washington.

Dancers and families spent a wonderful weekend together at this amazingly beautifully serene and spiritual venue. Old friends & new met to spend a perfect weekend together with perfect weather & plenty of dancing!

This camp is directed by Debbi Montrose and thanks to her hard work and lovely vision, B’Yachad was again great and successful!

Our 2014 dance staff (teachers/ markidim)

Portland: Donna Cole & Avi Tayar

Seattle: Dianne Casper, Ellie Morhaime, Esti Livni & Gail Levy

Vancouver: Nona Malki

LA: William Harvey

New Jersey: Special Guest: Mitch Ginsburgh

Dances taught:

Matanot Ktanot: Gadi Bitton

Achshav Karov (p) : Gadi Bitton

Halev: Gadi Bitton

Romeio (p): Nona Malki

Vilner Gaon: Mitch Ginsburgh

Rak Kan: Oren Ashkenazi

LeYeled Haze Hitpalalti: Oren Ashkenazi

Special appreciation goes out to...

Rachel Stern- ever popular Yoga class by the lake

Cindy Droker- Children’s dance session

July 26, 2014 - Israeli folk dancing at the Beaverton International Celebration

Young and old alike enjoyed learning Israeli folk dances at the 4th Annual

Beaverton International Celebration. Thank you to Bonnie and Larry Bliesner, and

Nurit and Boaz Kahana for their support! Photo by Boaz Kahana. --S.

July 1, 2014 - Cafe Shalom celebrated 10 years!

(Re-posted from our Facebook page)

June 22, 2014 - Israeli dancing at the MJCC 100th Birthday Bash

The MJCC celebrated its 100th Birthday on June 22nd with Israeli folk dancing led by Allison Victor

(photo at left) among many other activities offered that day. Dancers both long-time and new, joined

in for an hour and a half of celebration and fun. Recognize anyone?!

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June 7. 2014 - Portland dancers participate in the International Festival in Longview, WA

With blue and white tops, and black skirts and pants, the Israel Shalom Dancers

from Portland participated in the 24th Annual International Festival in Longview, WA

on June 7. (Photo courtesy Melanie Trull.)

On June 7th a group of Portland dancers participated in the 24th annual International fair in Longview, WA. The group, coordinated by Duane Robbins and dubbed "The Israel Shalom Dancers" worked with Cindy Lopez Werth, festival coordinator. Dancers consisted of Melana Valencia, Santi Barros Jeff Baker, Deborah Freedman, Brain Davis, Linda Schwartz, Debbi Montrose, and Duane Robbins.

The one-hour demonstration included an introduction about each of the dances, and afterwards, the audience was invited to join in to learn a few dances. Cindy Lopez Werth said people really enjoyed participating. Over 500 people attended the event which included live music and food representing countries such as Mexico, Germany, Japan, Norway and Spain among others.

A round of applause goes to these "ambassadors" of Israeli folk dance!

May 2014 Recaps

May 15, 2014 - Israeli Folk Dancing on the Road: Eric Singer, David Rutiezer, Candi

Swan, and Sue Wendel share dancing at the The 3rd International Culture Fair

at Elmonica Elementary in Beaverton.

By Eric Singer

xEric shares a brief history of Israeli folk dancing before everyone joins in the fun.

Mary Gibson (far right on stage), ESL teacher at Elmonica, helped organize the well attended event.

(Photos courtesy Eric Singer and Dorothy Sharrar)

Israeli Dancing is perhaps the most difficult social dance to master. Fortunately we dance in a circle allowing us to interact with one another as we recall the dances. To date there are over 7000 Israeli Dances and each dance is unique with different music and steps. It can take months or even years to begin to master.

Not so, in the beginning. The foundational Israeli Dances created in the mid-1940s through the 60's were created for the novice as well as the avid dancer. To be able to step into the circle and dance and celebrate new Israeli life as a group was the main focus when Israeli dance was initially under construction. It is these foundational dances that can be taken on the road to be taught and danced by anyone.

It was these foundational dances that we introduced to the students and their parents of Elmonica Elementary School in Beaverton on May 15th, at their 3rd International Culture Fair. Elmonica is a school with 25 different nationalities, so as we arrived at the school’s event, the costumes, the international dancing and the energy were captivating. The small children looked like little dolls all dressed up. We saw Polynesian and Irish dancers, a multicultural fashion show, and student made culture boards depicting countries from all over the world.

We were the last ones to present and we did so in good fashion. All ages joined our circle to dance to Zemer Atik and then Mayim. We lead the group through Tzadik Katamar and concluded with the couple dance Ve David. The laughing and the energy confirmed that we were successful with sharing a part of Israel that people rarely see.

The American non-Jew is bombarded with consistent negativity toward Israel. To spend time trying to convince others that Israel is a not unfair in its policies is putting us in a defensive posture. To bring Israeli dance with its energy and the laughter to non Jews and show them Israel beyond the conflict was the gift we shared that day. We were ambassadors for Israel that day and we succeeded in putting our best foot -- or in this case ---best feet forward.

Thank you to our dancer helpers: David Rutiezer, Sue Wendel and Candi Swan, and for photos and support by Dorothy Sharrar. And thank you to Mary Gibson, ESL teacher at Elmonica, who invited us to share our dancing at the Fair. She has already expressed the hope that we will come back again next year! --ES

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May 15, 2014 - Cafe Shalom Dancers entertained residents at the

Robison Health Center

From Duane Robbins and Melba Davidson

The Cafe Shalom Dancers, coordinated by Melba Davidson and Duane Robbins, had a fun time entertaining the residents on Thursday night May 15th at the Robison Health Center. There were even five ladies and two men who got up to dance some of the favorite Israeli dances. "The residents tell us that we are their favorite entertainers," says Duane. Melba added, "We always feel so very gratified after we dance for the residents, and I'm always so very deeply appreciative of the dancers that generously give of their time to entertain them."

The core group has been dancing for 20 years. They rotate every other month between Robison and the Rose Schnitzer Manor across the street. Cafe Shalom Dancers entertain the 3rd Thursday of each month.Melba also recruits dancers from the

Donna's Sunday and Allison's Tuesday evening open dance sessions; especially those who have been dancing for a whole lot of years and know many of the contemporary dances. If you would like to be included and dance with this amazing and graceful group, please let Melba know.

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May 5th, 2014 Yom Ha'atzmaut Celebration: Israel's 66th Birthday!

Allison's beginning class dancers (top) and vintage dancers demonstrate classic folk dances of early Israel.

Enjoying open dancing until 10:30 pm along with fresh and nutritious snacks.

Ruti Boaz (back center) and her students perform at Yom Ha"atzmaut celebration.

A couple hundred people of all ages celebrated Israeli Independence Day at the Mittleman Jewish Community Center, with a variety of options including kids’ activities, an Israeli shuk (marketplace), Israeli food, a lecture by Portland State University Judaic Studies Professor Nina Spiegel with a folk dance demonstration, an exhibit of Israeli photos, and open dancing.

To see info about Nina's book "Embodying Hebrew Culture" please see the Community Biz page on this site.

A thank you from Debbi:

A hearty THANK YOU to the following dancers and leaders of dancing at Yom HaAtzmaut Celebration at the J Monday evening, May 5

Ruti Kenan for her fabulous 2nd graders demonstration after Nina's talk, and being an energetic dance and song leader during the program!

Allison Victor for amassing your amazing adult class dancers for the demonstration, and being a vibrant open dance ssession leader.

Vintage dancers Jon Zingeser, Gary Fox, Bonnie Bliesner, Eric Singer, Debbi Montrose & Sue Wendel for being a part of the demonstration.

Duane Robbins our loyal and talented music and equipment guru.

Eric Singer for your efforts to shop for and prepare delectable snacks for us.

Donna Cole for being the wonderful open dance session leader that you are.

Shiran Halfon our beloved Shalicha from Israel to Portland, coordinator of the entire event.

PSU Professor Nina Spiegel for enlightening us with her presentation on the history of Israeli culture and dance.

The Sons of Shimon duo for lively and inspiring music that made us get up and jump around in celebration!

The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland for their support for making Israeli Folk Dance happen at this year's Yom HaAtzmaut celebration!

If I've inadvertently left anyone out, please consider yourself THANKED as well, and let us know!

Again, it certainly "takes a village" and boy do we have an amazing one! -D

Please enjoy this little clip of students dancing at the Yom Ha'atzmaut Celebraton, May 5th, at the MJCC.

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May 2, 2014 folk dancing at Shaari Torah with Esther and Candi

Shaarie Torah celebrated Israel's 66th birthday with a party Friday night, May 2nd. 5:30 to 7:00 with art, games, a short movie of Israel's accomplishments, and a presentation by Bob Horenstein of JFGP. Israeli Folk dancing was lead by Esther and Candi from 6 to 6:45 with a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 7pm, Israeli style falafel dinner at 7:30. Esther says, "It was a lovely night at Shaarie Torah celebrating Israel's birthday! We had about 10 dancers. We danced beginning dances for maybe 40 minutes before the Kabbalat Shabbat service and the Israeli style dinner."

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April 2014 Recpas

April 2014 -- Debbi was fortunate to have the opportunity to dance in Israel just before Passover, at a session led by Yaron Carmel. It is held at kibbutz Gan Shmuel just outside the city of Zichron Yaakov, south of Haifa. "A fabulous session of over 250 dancers, with new and vintage, partner, line, and circle dances. "The entire floor was filled," says Debbi. "Loved it and love being back dancing here as well!

April 7, 2014 -- Allison taught dances to a Brownie troupe in Portland. There were 20 energetic kids. "They wore me out and I wore them out too!" she said, adding that kids and parents were all happy to learn and see the dances.

(If you have a dance story to share please send to pifdnews@gmail.com)

April 2014 - Purim at Sunday dancing at Fulton -- Besides dancing, Susan and Esther

enjoy the goodies.

April 2014 - Tacoma, WA has Israeli folk dancing and a Facebook page "Debka Esh"

Debka Esh is a Israeli Dance Group based out of Tacoma Washington.

We meet at Tacoma Community College every Wednesday Evening from 7:30-9:30.

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March 2014 Recpas

March 2014 - Cafe Shalom Dancers delight residents at Robison Jewish Health Center on

March 20

Cafe Shalom Dancers on March 20 included: Debbi Montrose, Melba Davidson, Jeff Baker, Tamera Patrick,

Esther Oulman Swart, Duane Robbins, and Brian Davis. Photos courtesy Debbi Montrose.

Cafe Shalom Dancers entertained residents at Robison Jewish Health Center at

Cedar Sinai Park on Thursday, March 20th. Coordinated by Melba Davidson and

Duane Robbins, Cafe Shalom dancers have been entertaining residents each month

for over 20 years!

(For a history of the dance group, see this site's page History of Portland IFD).

Always held on the 3rd Thursday of each month, April 17th is the next date, and

will be at the Rose Schnitzer Manor, also part of Cedar Sinai Park. For anyone who

wishes to see them on April 17th, the one-hour program starts at 6:45 pm.

Melba recruits dancers from the Sunday or Tuesday evening sessions; especially those who

have been dancing for a whole lot of years and know many of the contemporary dances.

If you would like to be included and dance with this amazing and graceful group, please

let Melba know. A big thanks goes out to Melba, Duane, and all the devoted dancers!

See them in a short video clip at the end of this newsletter.

March 2014 - Local Portlander shares love of dance with congregants

at Temple Sinai in Palm Desert, CA

Palm Desert residents Eddie and Marilyn Gruen joined in for Israeli

folk dancing with Portlander Sue Wendel at Temple Sinai in Palm Desert.

The oneg Shabbat at Temple Sinai in Palm Desert included Israeli folk dancing Friday,

March 21. This editor, who is visiting the area for some much needed sunshine,

attended services and then led a few dances afterwards. People who had never danced

or hadn't folk danced in awhile joined in for dances such as Zemer Atik, Hine Ma Tov,

and Yedid Nefesh. A fun time was had by all, and I was invited back next year

-- maybe to even teach a beginners class. -SW

Have you danced in another city and want to write about it?

Send story and photo if you have one to pifdnews@gmail.com

3/20/14 Israeli folk dance radio station station goes on air http://radio.harokdim.org. See Resource page on this site for some details.

3/16/14 PURIM PARTY TONIGHT!Purim Party tonight, 3/16 at FULTON PARK SUNDAY NIGHT ISRAELI DANCING!! 68 SW Miles Street, Portland, OR. COSTUMES WELCOME! Open Dancing 8-11pm - -New Dance Instruction 9:15pm - Late Couples' Set 11-11:15pm

PLEASE JOIN US FOR A FUN PARTY! Hope to see you, I'll bring cookies-- Donna

3/14/14 Shaari Torah Hamantaschen bake gets coverage in Wall Street Journal.

http://online.wsj.com/news/article_email/SB10001424052702304585004579419411029085056-lMyQjAxMTA0MDEwNDExNDQyWj

March 2014 - Jewish and Israeli Dance course at PSU provides insights

into what Israeli folk dancing is all about

Back in January, PIFD News announced a course offered Winter term at PSU, taught by Professor Nina Spiegel, titled Jewish and Israeli Dance.

The course examines the development and diversity of Jewish and Israeli dance, with an emphasis on the twentieth century,and addresses questions such as: what is the meaning of Jewish dance? and, what do these dances tell us about Jewish life in different parts of the world?

From our community of dancers, Larry Bliesner signed up for the course, and this is what he can tell us so far what he is learning:

This is an interesting class in the new field of study about Jewish and Israeli dance. The class involves approaching the subject from multiple disciplines such as anthropology, ethnography, literary and cultural studies, etc.

Israeli Folk Dance may be described with one word "Fusion". Israeli Folk Dance derives from many sources. These include Biblical stories, Yemenite wedding dances, the Romanian Hora, modern German dance from early 20th century, Arab line dances, and more. Major early influences on Israeli Folk Dance were the Kibbutz Dalia gatherings in Palestine/Israel and the 92nd Street Y in New York City.

There are tensions between kibbutz versus Tel Aviv, "low art" versus "high art", diaspora versus Sabra, "folk" dance versus "recreational" dance, and "socialist" versus "bourgeois". - LB

March 2014 - Dancing in Santa Barbara with Arlene and Ravid

On February 25th, I (kneeling) had the great pleasure of visiting with Arlene and Ravid Raphael (back row at right), fellow Portland dancers who recently moved to the Santa Barbara area, and local dancers. Under the stars at Oak Park, we danced away the evening, led by dance leader Osnat Ben-Shahar (front row right). Like dancers everywhere, folks were friendly and inviting. And dancing outside takes me back to the days of dancing with Bill Nelson in Washington Park! (One of the dancers there, not pictured, was Michal Lynch, vintage dance leader.)

March 2014 - Discoveries in the OJM Archives: The JCC's First 100 Year's

Exhibit at the Oregon Jewish Museum

Not quite 100 years ago, Debbi Montrose and Jon Zingeser, members of Ayalah, danced Dayagim, at the JCC.

See this photo and more in the exhibit at the Oregon Jewish Museum, Menashe Gallery, 1953 NW Kearny St., Portland, OR

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Feb. Recap 2014

Feb. 2014 - Cafe Shalom Dancers to entertain residents Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014

at the Rose Schnitzer Manor, 6:45 pm, and seeks dancers

From Melba Davidson: The Cafe Shalom dancers will be dancing at the Rose Schnitzer Manor on Thursday, Feb.20th next week. Our program normally consists of. about 15 dances -- 4 - 6 of them being couple dances (if we have enough men). I tend to put together more recent dances and also high-energy dances (currently done in Israel) rather than the classic ones.

Melba recruits dancers from the Sunday or Tuesday evening sessions. Especially those who have been dancing for a whole lot of years and knows many of the contemporary dances. Please let Melba know if you are interested. Anyone that wishes to join us, our performance on Feb. 20 starts at 6:45pm -- please join us for one-hour of sharing contemporary Israeli dancing with the residents.

Recap Archives 2013

Dec. 2013 - Café Shalom Dancers shared their love

of dance at Rose Schnitzer Manor

From Melba Davidson (center, at back)

On Thursday evening, December 19^th, the Café Shalom Dancers entertained residents at Rose Schnitzer Manor. Melba Davidson, who has been coordinating the dancers for close to 19 years, has said that the residents look forward to the 3^rd Thursday monthly dance performances and the social interaction with the dancers afterwards – and according to the residents, it is one of their favorite forms of entertainment.

Melba asks that if you know of other groups that want to perform during the time when we dance, we can always include them or they can take over a few performances for us and we can share the 3rd Thursdays.

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Dec. 2013 - Portland Hillel students enjoyed an Israeli Dance Shabbat

Greater Portland Hillel students enjoy a lively Shabbat with Israeli folk dancing led by Donna Cole. (Photos courtesy Rachel Hall.)

By Rachel Hall, Executive Director, Greater Portland Hillel

On Friday, Dec. 13, the student group Greater Portland Hillel at Portland State University, held an "Israeli Dance" Shabbat at PSU. For two hours before Shabbat, students enjoyed Israeli folk dancing -- working up quite a sweat with guidance from Donna Cole,

It was a great way for students to engage with Israeli culture, especially given the immense amount or pressure and tension surrounding issues with respect to Israel,. Students can become quickly turned off by extreme dialogues on both sides of controversies and Israeli dancing is a positive way that students can be proud to "do Jewish," without worrying that they are making the "wrong" argument or feel scared that they don't know "the facts". We hope to do more dancing in 2014.

The mission of Greater Portland Hillel is to enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world. For info about Greater Portland Hillel at PSU, please visit http://portland.hillel.org

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Dec. 2013 - FYI: Israeli folk dancing in Santa Barbara, CA

From Arlene Raphael

If you are ever in the Santa Barbara area, Arlene Raphael has shared this info: the Israeli folk dance leader/teacher is Michal Lynch who is a gifted, resourceful dancer. Her main focus is vintage Israeli dances with some classic Balkan added to the mix at her Monday evening, 6:00 to 8:30 pm sessions.

Michal does not have a website, and her contact number is 805-895-4885. I found her information on the website of the Santa Barbara Dance Alliance: http://sbdancealliance.org/services/dancedirectory.html --A

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Nov. 2013 - Recap of the Nov. 10, 2013 vintage dance session:

Zivit and David dance Ki Tinam.

At the Vintage dancing on Sunday, Nov. 10, one of the dances we learned/relearned was Ki Tinam “As It’ll Be Pleasant”. A beautiful couple’s dance choreogrphed by Tamar Alyagor in 1954. As it was, on that very same day, little did we know, Tamar Alyagor z"l passed away at age 90.

According to a recent email sent to Gary from Haim Kaufman, Tamar was the last of the great women choreographers who helped establish the foundations of Israeli folk dancing in the early years. As the head of the Ulpan L'Madrichim L'Rikuday Am in Haifastarting in 1959, she personally educated, tested and certified a whole generation of choreographers and teachers who represent a who's who of Israeli folk dance. These include Yankele Levy, Seadia Amishai, Shmulik Gov-Ari, Igal Triki, Moshany Shemesh, just to name a few she mentioned to me in one of our many discussions.

In addition to Ki Tinam, Tamar was the creator of Chag Ha'asor, Kalu Raglayim, Zemer Ikarim & other classics. May her spirit live on in dance. To see more, go to www.israelidances.com

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July 2013

Eric Singer (middle) leads Israeli folk dancing at the Beaverton

International Celebration, July 27th, 2013

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July 2013

Hava Nagila (The Movie) was enjoyed by dancers and

non-dancers alike at the Clinton St Theater, July 28th.

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July 2013

Café Shalom Dancers share their love of dance at the Robison.

By Melba Davidson

We have been dancing for about 19 years for the residents at Robison. It has been fun coordinating the dances/outfits for that long. We never seem to have enough time to practice for our performances – so they are very spontaneous, but well received. I appreciate all the dancers that participate in entertaining the residents. If you are interested in helping to facilitate this group, please let me know. L'hitraot.

Event Announcement Archives: August - October 2014

Just in case you haven't heard, here is information about a unique first time ever Rosh HaShanah event planned for Thursday, Oct 2, at the MJCC, presented by Debbi Montrose and Israeli folk dance leaders in Portland.

The event is made possible by a micro grant awarded to Debbi Montrose from The Schusterman Family Foundation for submitting an idea that they were soliciting for their #MAKEITHAPPEN Initiative/Rosh HaSHanah Seder of Hope and Peace. The event is being co-sponsored by the MJCC, with assistance from Portland Israeli dance leaders.

The idea is for a Rosh HaShanah Seder that includes the theme of HOPE AND PEACE symbolized in seder foods, song, and Israeli dancing.

The seder will start the program, followed by a a sing-a-long with lyrics both Hebrew and transliterated to dances we know to songs about hope and peace.

Debbi's hope is to bring together Israeli community, folk dancers, students, and the general community, all who are interested in celebrating Rosh Ha'Shanah together in this unique and new way.

Looking forward to having you join us! RSVP now to debbirm@aol.com

Hello folk dancers and friends,

Also see Facebook "Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR

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Sun., August 31, 2014

Classic Israeli Folk Dancing in Beaverton!

What: Classic Israeli Folk Dancing in Beaverton

Time: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Where: Dance Fit Oregon / The Beaverton Ballroom at Cedar Hills Crossing

3205 SW Cedar Hills Blvd., Suite 51

Beaverton, OR 97005

Phone: 503.274.9040 www.dancefitoregon.com

For: All ages and dance levels. Beginners Welcome!

Price: $5 per person ($15 for a family)

Come learn and enjoy the easy dances of early Israel!

Brought to you by Gary, Jon, and Sue, with help from Nurit, Boaz, Debbi, David (Jon's son), and Bonnie

Details:

Wear tennis shoes and comfortable clothing.

Water is available, or bring your own. Restrooms are in the Mall.

There are chairs and small tables in the Ballroom for people to sit and rest.

The outdoor sign reads Dance Fit Oregon fyi

Schedule: We will begin with basic easy dances, and enjoy more dances, with light review and by request too.

For more info or questions, please email Sue at pifdnews@gmail.com

The url for this website is: sites.google.com/site/pifdnews

Event Announcement Archives: Feb. - July 2014

Saturday, July 26, 2014, 11:00 am to 5 pm

4th Annual Beaverton International Celebration

11:30 am to noon - There will be participatory Israeli folk dancing

in the Kid's and Culture Interactive Area Canopy

In 2013 Eric Singer coordinated Israeli folk dancing

at the 3rd Annual Beaverton International Celebration (above).

This year Sue Wendel will coordinate the program.

If you would like to assist, please email Sue at pifdnews@gmail.com

Lots of international folk dancing performances this year and more . . .!

Event Info: http://www.beavertonoregon.gov/index.aspx?NID=986

The Beaverton International Celebration (part of Party in the Park) is a free, fun, family-friendly event showcasing our many cultures through music, dance, interactive activities, food, art and more! In 2013, more than 8,000 people attended Party in the Park, many of whom came especially for the Beaverton International Celebration.

This year, over 40 exhibitors and 11 stage performers from local cultural groups and organizations will showcase crafts, music, dance, art, traditional dress, food and more! Lots of activities in the Children's Tent too.

Hosted by THPRD's Party in the Park.

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Thursday, June 19th, 2014

Cafe Shalom Dancers to entertain at Rose Schnitzer Manor. 6:45 - 7:45 pm,

Melba and Duane coordinate the dancers who have been entertaining residents monthly for over 20 years!

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June 2014 - Sunday, June 8 Fulton celebrates Shavuot! (Reposted from Donna's email announcement)

This Sunday June 8 we will celebrate the recent Shavuot holiday at Fulton Park Israeli Dancing. Nomi graciously offered to prepare food, and to tell us about the meaning of Shavuot and how it is celebrated in her home in Israel.

Shavuot commemorates the gift of Torah to the Jewish people, and also the first harvest of the season.

There will be dances of Shavuot and also Classic dances from 8-9, followed by open dancing from 9-11:15pm.

As part of the celebration, it would be great if you can wear something white.

Save room for cheesecake too-

Donna

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Saturday, June 7, 2014

A special troupe of Portland dancers will

travel to Longview, WA to perform at the International Festival

Duane Robbins has gathered together a group of dancers and is coordinating a one-time performance for June 7, 4 pm in Longview, WA. Dancers to date include: Brian Davis, Santiago Barros and Malena Barros, Debbi Montrose, and Deborah Friedman. We thanks Duane coordinating the group, and hope that many of you can attend the Festival!

Enjoy a day of multicultural entertainment, ethnic food for sale,

World Market vendors, community information booths & lots

of activities for children. It’s great family fun! FREE admission.

For more information, please call 360-751-4427 or e-mail cindylopezwerth@comcast.net.

Sat. June 7th PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

11 a.m. Noe No Ka Mauna Hula Group: Hawaiian Dances

Noon Portland Flamenco Guapas: Spanish Dances

1 p.m. Ballet Folklorico Olincalli: Mexican Folk Dances

2 p.m. International Coffee Club: World Fashion Show & Chicken Dance

3 p.m. Süsse Füsse International Folk Dance Troupe: Dances from around the World

4 p.m. Israel Shalom: Israeli Folk Dances

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Sunday, February 2, 2014

Oldies Dance Night at Fulton Park!

7:30-10:30 pm

Classics Israeli Dance Night will be on Sunday, February 2, 2014

at Fulton Park Community Center. Address: 68 SW Miles Street, Portland, Oregon

Special hours: 7:30-10:30pm Classic Dances

10:30-11:15pm Open Dancing (old & new)

$6.00 dancing and refreshments.

Please bring your requests for dances before 1994.

Wear tennis shoes and bring a water bottle if you like.

I hope to see you there!

LET’S BUILD A FAVORITES LIST -- SEND YOUR FAVORITE CLASSIC

DANCES TO: pifdnews@gmail.com

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Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Café Shalom

Intermediate/advanced Israeli folk dance instruction and open dancing resumes

at Café Shalom with Allison Victor.

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Wednesday, January, 15, 2014

MJCC Beginning class

The final vintage session for 2013 is Sunday, Dec. 8, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

The session is free for center members, but this is the last time for the $6 guest fee

that was made possible due to a generous contribution from the Jewish Federation

of Greater Portland. A shout out goes to the JFGP for their support!

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Dec. 2013 - Wednesdays Beginning Israeli Folk Dance

class through Dec. 11, 2013. Winter term schedule will be out soon.

Wednesdays, October 30 – December 11 (drop-ins welcome, no class 11/27)

At the MJCC, 7:00-8:00 pm

Do you know the difference between a Hora and a Debka? How about a Yemenite step and a grapevine?

Join us for a fun and introductory class in the basics of Israeli Folk Dancing! You are welcome if you are a complete beginner, or you danced years ago and want to renew your love for this dance form. Instructor: Allison Victor.

$42 ea. (G: $57) $10 drop-in

MJCC 6651 SW Capitol Highway, Portland, OR

Instructor: Allison Victor

To register call the MJCC: 503-244-0111

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Dec. 2013 - Vintage Israeli Folk Dancing at the MJCC, Winter, 2014

In 2014, 2^nd Sunday Vintage Israeli Folk Dancing will include more instruction for all level of dancers, and as always, requests of your old-time favorites. It is free for members, and the guest fee will revert back to the center non-member drop-in policy which is $10 with a member and $15 without. Pre-registration is required. Session dates will be Jan. 12, Feb. 9, and March 9.

From the MJCC catalog:

Vintage Israeli Folk Dancing

Want to rediscover the Israeli folk dances of the early years? Come enjoy Open Dance on the second Sunday of each month. Instruction and light discussion about the dances will be included. We will play requests too. All levels welcome. Pre-registration is required no later than the preceding Thursday, as there is a 5 person minimum to hold the session.

Sundays 1:00-2:30 pm

1/12, 2/9, and 3/9

MJCC Dance Studio

Members: Free (G: $15, w/member $10)

Pre-registration for members and guests is strongly encouraged. If there are not enough registrants the Thursday before the scheduled session, it may be cancelled. We recommend calling guest services the day of offering to ensure enough participation.

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Dec. 2013 - 2^nd Sunday Vintage Israeli Folk Dancing at the MJCC is Dec. 8

The final vintage session for 2013 is Sunday, Dec. 8, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

The session is free for center members, but this is the last time for the $6 guest fee

that was made possible due to a generous contribution from the Jewish Federation

of Greater Portland. A shout out goes to the JFGP for their support!

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This Tuesday, Dec. 3, Café Shalom will celebrate Chanukkah.

(Photo: Allison and Tuesday night Café Shalom dancers enjoy Chanukkah 2012.)

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Nov. 2013 - Dorice and Sue round up kids for

Israeli folk dancing at the Friendly House

On November 14, 2013 Dorice Horenstein (upper left) and this editor (lower left) led a group of energetic kids in Israeli folk dancing at an after school program at the Friendly House in NW Portland. Dorice’s skill and charm shined through as she taught the kids a variety of dances from the “Hebrew Hokey Pokey” to Mayim. A fun time was had by all! Thank you to Dorice for your time and for your enthusiastic leadership and participation!

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Nov. 2013 - Portland dancers traveled to Vancouver BC for VIFS workshop

By Debbi Montrose

The "Vancouver Van" carrying a group of dancers from Portland, traveled way north recently for the Vancouver Israeli Folkdance Society mini workshop on Nov. 16th, lead by Vancouver's dance leaders, Nona, Tal and Naomi. It was so much fun riding up with Donna, Avi, Melba, Nurit, and Deborah. Lunch as usual was with Deb's friend Carolyn in Seattle on the way home (in a noisy sports bar near the Starbucks and was so appreciated by Deb). It's always great dancing with our friends from Seattle and Vancouver, and we were made to feel so welcome and appreciated for making our way up. Looking forward to the next one! Photo courtesy Debbi Montrose.

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2013 - A fond farewell and best wishes to long-time Portland dancers

Ravid and Arlene Raphael (center, and on each side of Allison) received a beautiful scarf made by Allison, with dancers’ names making up the border, as a send off to their new adventure in sunny California. We wish them the best of luck and hope for many visits in the future! See more photos on Facebook "Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, O

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Oct. 2013 - Vintage Israeli Folk Dancing Begins

Dates: Sundays, Oct. 13^th, Nov. 10^th, and Dec. 8^th

MJCC dance studio

Time: 1:00 to 2:30 pm

Free to MJCC members, $10 guest fee with member, $15 drop-in. NEW PRICE just $6 for guests, due to generous support from the JFGP

This fall the MJCC is starting a new daytime Israeli folk dance open session with a focus on classic dances. If you love vintage Israeli folk dances, come join us at the MJCC the second Sunday of each month, Oct.-Dec.

Geared to dancers with some experience, each dance will include light instruction or a quick review, and include information about the the dance. Requests are encouraged. Held in the dance studio, space is limited.

The sessions will be facilitated by volunteers Gary Fox, Jon Zingeser, and Sue Wendel, with assistance from Debbi Montrose. Thanks go to technical assistance from Duane Robbins, and support and encouragement from Dudi Amir, Allison Victor, and Eric Singer.

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The next sessions of Vintage Israeli Folk Dance

are Sunday, Nov. 10, and Sunday Dec. 8, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Enjoying the first session of vintage dancing on Oct. 13.

Vintage dancing dates: Sundays, Nov.10^th, and Dec. 8^th

MJCC dance studio. Space is limited.

Time: 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.

Free to MJCC members. Only $6 guest fee due to a generous contribution from the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland.

Oct. 2013 - Recap of the first Vintage Israeli folk dance session

On Sunday, Oct. 13^th, 17 dancers enjoyed the first of three daytime vintage folk dance sessions at the MJCC If you love vintage dances, come join us at the MJCC on Nov. 10 and Dec. 8.

2014 dates tba.

Geared to dancers with some experience. Requests are encouraged too.

The sessions are facilitated by volunteers Gary Fox, Jon Zingeser, and Sue Wendel, with assistance from Debbi Montrose. Thanks go to technical assistance from Duane Robbins, and support and encouragement from Dudi Amir, Allison Victor, Bonnie Bleisner, and Eric Singer.

TAKING DANCE REQUESTS NOW! If you have a request for the Nov. 10 or Dec. 8 session, send the name of dance to pifdnews@gmail.com.

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Oct. 2013 - Folk dancers attend Spiegel book launch celebration

Thursday, Oct 24 among the audience, were local folk dancers there to help celebrate the book launch of Embodying Hebrew Culture: Aesthetics, Athletics, and Dance in the Jewish Community of Mandate Palestine, by PSU professor and folk dancer Nina Spiegel.

Nina says that for folk dancers, the chapter on the first two Dalia Folk Dance Festivals in 1944 and 1947 is a highlight. The chapter tells the story of how Israeli folk dance started, what citizens aimed to create, and the questions and tensions they grappled with in the process. --S

For further info see http://www.pdx.edu/judaic or email judaicst@pdx.edu.

For book details see: http://wsupress.wayne.edu/books/detail/embodying-hebrew-culture

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=embodying+hebrew+culture

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2013 - Chanukah is coming soon.

Here are some ideas

for great gifts for folk dancers!

Last spring, Diane Betcher volunteered to create a commemorative book for the 40th anniversary celebration of Israeli folk dancing in Portland. The result was a beautiful collection of stories of 50 local dancers, spiral bound and printed in full color. It is now available for sale for $25.Please contact Diane at diane.betcher@gmail.com

Heirloom Portland Israeli Folk Dance 40^th Anniversary T-shirts, sizes Lg/x-Lg are still available. $12 ea.

40th Anniversary of Portland Israeli Folk Dance Celebration CD sets can still be ordered as well. $25 for the set or $15 ea.

ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT PORTLAND ISRAELI FOLK DANCING!

Please contact Deb Montrose at debbirm@aol.com

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Oct. 2013 - Israeli Folk Dancing in Taipei

Our dancing friend, Julie, from Taipei sent PIFD News tidings and this following info.

(PIFD News thanks her for taking the time to tell us about folk dancing in Taiwan.)

The name of the group I dance with: Jin-An Sunday Folk Dance Group

Instructor: Mr. Yu and his teachers group

Venue: 4th Fl., No.60 Yongkang street, Da-An Dist, Taipei,Taiwan. [Jin-An Community Center] Dongmen metro station exit No. 5 walk by 10 minutes.

Time: Every Sunday night from 6:00-9:30pm

6:00-7:00pm: Beginners 1 & 2.

7:00-8:00pm: Teaching

8:00-9:30pm: Open dance for all including beginners, intermediate and advance.

There's a new beginning class starting Nov 3rd, 2013 by 4:00-6:00pm for beginners.

No membership fee is required, all free. All teachers are volunteers with great patience and enthusiasm. We dance all kinds of dances including American, Chinese, Greek, Indian, Israeli, Spanish, etc. Generally, there's 50% Israeli dances because of the nice music with beautiful steps.

Actually there are a lot of folk dance groups located in Taiwan and at least 5 groups in Taipei. In Taipei, 2 different groups dance on every Tuesday and Friday, and 3 different groups dance on every Saturday. Normally, I only go for Sunday's class because I am busy at the weekdays.

From the editor: FYI here is bit of history about Israeli folk dancing in Taiwan:

http://www.israelidances.com/dancingintaiwan.htm

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Sept. 2013 - About the new Open Vintage Israeli folk dance session at the MJCC

Dates: Sundays, Oct. 13^th, Nov. 10^th, and Dec. 8^th

MJCC dance studio

Time: 1:00 to 2:30 pm

Free to MJCC members, $10 guest fee with member, $15 drop-in.

This fall the MJCC is starting a new daytime Israeli folk dance open session with a focus on classic dances. If you love vintage Israeli folk dances, come join us at the MJCC the second Sunday of each month, Oct.-Dec.

Geared to dancers with some experience, each dance will include light instruction or a quick review, and include information about the the dance. Requests are encouraged. Held in the dance studio, space is limited.

The sessions will be facilitated by volunteers Gary Fox, Jon Zingeser, and Sue Wendel, with assistance from Debbi Montrose. Thanks go to technical assistance from Duane Robbins, and support and encouragement from Dudi Amir, Allison Victor, and Eric Singer.

IMPORTANT UPDATE 10/7/13

Dear friends,

As you know, there will be open vintage Israeli folk dancing for experienced dancers on Sunday, Oct. 13th, at the MJCC.

Due to a generous donation from the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, admission for guests is now $6. We thank them very much for their support!

However, due to the size of the dance room, space is limited to 24 and the MJCC is not taking pre-registration at this time. Therefore, it is first come first served. This will be reevaluated after the session.

Hope to see you there!

Gary, Jon, Debbi, and Sue,

Vintage Israeli Folk Dance facilitators

Sept. 2013 - Book Publication Launch

PSU’s Judaic Studies invites you to celebrate the publication of Professor Nina Spiegel’s first book, Oct. 24 at PSU, 7 p.m., Smith Memorial Student Union Browsing Lounge, room 238

By Natan Meir, Harold Schnitzer Family Program in Judaic Studies at PSU

Please join the Harold Schnitzer Family Program in Judaic Studies at Portland State University in celebrating the publication of Dr. Nina S. Spiegel’s first book, Embodying Hebrew Culture: Aesthetics, Athletics, and Dance in the Jewish Community of Mandate Palestine.

Judaic Studies’ book-launch event will be held Thurs., Oct. 24, at 7 p.m., in the Smith Memorial Student Union’s Browsing Lounge (rm. 238). A dessert reception and a book signing will follow the main event. Copies of the book will be available for sale.

The evening is free and open to the public. (Parking near campus and in campus parking lots is free after 7 p.m.)

The evening will include remarks and a conversation between the author and eminent sociologist, Dr. Calvin Goldscheider. Goldscheider is professor emeritus of sociology and Ungerleider professor emeritus of Judaic Studies of Brown University as well as Scholar in Residence at American University. Incorporating examples from then and now, the presentation will include film footage and a variety of images from the book.

Published in June by Wayne State University Press, Embodying Hebrew Culture details the creation of a Hebrew cultural aesthetic that was intentionally and distinctly physical in the era from the British conquest of Palestine in 1917 during World War I until the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948.

In this detailed, multi-disciplinary work, Spiegel, the Rabbi Joshua Stampfer Professor of Israel Studies, demonstrates the ways that political and social issues can influence a new society and provides a dynamic framework for interpreting present-day Israeli culture.

“Anchored in interdisciplinary perspectives, Dr. Spiegel weaves together an original, fascinating, and insightful story of the social and cultural life of the Yishuv [Jewish community in this era],” writes Goldscheider of Spiegel’s book.

Drawing on a vast assortment of archives throughout Israel, Spiegel uses an array of untapped primary sources, from written documents to visual and oral materials, including films, photographs, posters, and interviews. Methodologically, Spiegel offers an original approach, integrating the fields of Israel studies, modern Jewish history, cultural history, gender studies, performance studies, dance theory and history, and sports studies.

(From Community Connections http://www.jewishportland.org/blog.aspx?id=501)

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August 2013 - B'Yachad 13th Annual Folk Dance Weekend

From Debbi:

B'YACHAD Northwest 2013, PNW's Israeli Dance Retreat for Intermediate/Advanced Dancers, just completed its 13th retreat August 16-18, at The Stampfer Center/Camp Solomon Schechter in Tumwater/Olympia, Washington.

The facility is a little piece of heaven on earth, and to the 65+ dancers/session leaders/family and friends who attended: you too helped make it the "best on earth" to me!

Thank you to Ellie, Dianne, Donna, Avi, Esti, Allison, William and Cindy D., all who helped to run and teach at sessions throughout the weekend, and of course Rachel with 30 yogi's this year, and to Dorice for helping to bring the "Bar Mitzvah" feeling to us this year!

Thank you's also go to Frank, Zach and the camp staff for readying the camp and feeding us all weekend, and again to all us dancers for bringing the best of camaraderie and dance to this incredible location. Happy dancing, and a wonderful New Year to you all!

From Ellie:

Beautiful venue, old friends & new, perfect weather lots of dancers & plenty of dancing!

Debbi Montrose – our camp director, thank you for the hard work and another great year! Our 2013 dance staff (teachers/ markidim) Portland: Donna Cole, Allison Victor & Avi Tayar; Seattle: Dianne Casper, Ellie Morhaime & Esti Livni; and L.A: William Harvey.

Special appreciation goes out to all the many hands & heads that went in to all the elements (sorry if I left anyone out): Warren Cole – videos, Vicki Wasserman – table decoration, Rachel Stern – ever popular Yoga class by the lake, Dorice Horenstein – for a beautiful Havdala and all the passion, and Cindy Droker – children’s dance session & performance.

Dances taught this year included: Birkat Ha'Kohanim – Shmulik Gov Ari, Mariposa – Gadi Bitton, Eifo At Hayom – Moshe Twille /G. Bitton, Kul shi Kalam – Gadi Bitton, Yafa Kmo Tamid – (P) Dudu Barzilai, Ba'layla – Gadi Bitton, and At Malach (P) – Avner Naim.

From Allison:

Israeli dance weekend! B'Yachad at beautiful camp setting! Canoeing in water lily accented lake and fabulous dancing! Our 13th year!

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More Stories Behind the Dances – Did You Know?

By Gary Fox

Debka Gilboa by Rivka Sturman

Rivka Sturman explained the beginnings of one of her first dances to Judith Brin Ingber.

“In 1947 we at Ein Harod were thrust into fighting on the Gilboa, the mountain opposite our settlement. Our sons were involved in this battle, and I felt an urgency to express their fight in a folk dance. Again, I went to Amiran and by chance we met on the street as I was walking toward his home in Tel Aviv…As I was speaking an air-raid siren sounded and we ran to a bomb shelter. He said that if I had come all the way to Tel Aviv from my kibbutz at this time in order to request music, he would go home and compose it for me.

“I showed him my ideas about advancing and retreating and then again advancing as if running to the peak of the Gilboa hills. The last section was to be a joyful victory. I had studied the Biblical story about the Gilboa which was cursed with no dew or rain. But we adapted the Biblical words in a positive way to show exactly what happened on the mountain – not a curse but a triumph. Today there is an agricultural settlement atop the mountain and I find great joy looking up to the green on the Gilboa.”

[Ingber, Judith Brin. Shorashim: The Roots of Israeli Folk Dance, pg 18]

[Note that they had no concern about reversing the meaning of the verse in II Samuel 1:21 - Gary]

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July 2013 - Classic Night Recap

Classics night, held at Fulton on July 14^th, was a success in numbers and enjoyment categories. What a turnout as a follow-up to the energy that began at the "oldies session" at our 40th Anniversary Celebration held in April. Thank you to Sue for coordinating the event, to Donna for so graciously hosting the venue, and to Dudi for inspiring us all! We look forward to many more classic dance sessions and seeing everyone (and you, too, Dudi!) again SOON.

-- Debbi

Classics Night on July 14^th at Fulton, was really great, due to the large turnout and energy (thank you Sue for your efforts and promotion and follow up).

There were at least 56 dancers in attendance--amazing! I am so grateful for the exceptional turnout, and for the tremendous support and energy. I am already planning another Classics evening in October -- there are so many wonderful dances and we could not get to all of them in one evening.

One of the fun comments was from a dancer who has never come to a classics dance night: "I never go to oldies dance night, I did not think I would like it, but it was really fun!"

I hope everyone had a good time last Sunday the 14th, and I look forward to the next one -- if we can keep the interest and energy going, Classics Night will keep getting better.

-- Donna

Speaking of classic Israeli folk dances, here is some interesting background about three of our favorite dances, submitted by Gary:

Zemer Atik (aka Nigun Atik) by Rivka Sturman

Historically, the Yiddish language was not officially recognized in Israel. It was felt that Hebrew had to become the language of the country. In 1955, Rivka dared to create a dance based on a Chassidic song, and she was afraid that the dance would not be accepted. But seemingly the timing was right, because it became such a hit that many other choreographers used Yiddish folk songs to create Chassidic dances.

[Berk, Fred. Hora, Fall 1977]

[Note 1. The dance was originally done as a partner / circle dance, danced alternately in a circle, then with different steps as partners, then circle, partner. Not many people remember the partner part.

Note 2. In the original dance there is only one clap on step 6 and one on step 8. – Gary]

Hora Medura by Yoav Ashriel 1963)

Yoav noticed when he taught discotheque dancing, that attendance was very good; but when he tried to teach an Israeli folk dance it was seemingly too difficult and only one third of the group [of over 1,000 youngsters] joined in. He selected Hora Medura, a song which was then very popular. It is a catchy tune everyone knew. To this tune he choreographed a very simple dance requiring no real instruction; one could learn it by just watching. He was successful with this dance and it became a classic in the Israeli folk dance repertory.

[Berk, Fred. Hora, Fall 1978]

Note 1. The dance is listed as 1963 on the website israelidances.com --S

Dodi Li and Iti Milvanon by Rivka Sturman

In 1949 Rivka “realized that we had almost no couple dances for young people to dance together, maybe because the kibbutzim frowned on social salon dances and always emphasized the group rather than the couple.” [Rivka couldn’t find any music she liked and asked a young kibbutz member Nira Hen to compose some for her. They found words in the Song of Songs and Nora composed 2 songs. She goes on to explain how she first saw Yemenites doing a particular step in many variations in most of their dances. She incorporated this into both Dodi Li and Iti Milvanon], “the first time that this old, authentic folk dance step was adopted as part of our new dance."

[Ingber, Judith Brin. Shorashim: The Roots of Israeli Folk Dance, pg 18]

For those who want more intellectual pursuits – a book. . ,

Embodying Hebrew Culture Aesthetics, Athletics, and Dance in the Jewish Community of Mandate Palestine, by Nina S. Spiegel

(Some of us had the pleasure of meeting Nina at the Portland Israeli Folk Dance 40th Anniversary Celebration in April --S)

About the book:

"Drawing on a vast assortment of archives throughout Israel, Spiegel uses an array of untapped primary sources, from written documents to visual and oral materials, including films, photographs, posters, and interviews. Methodologically, Spiegel offers an original approach, integrating the fields of Israel studies, modern Jewish history, cultural history, gender studies, performance studies, dance theory and history, and sports studies."

For us dancers, Nina says that the chapter on the first two Dalia Folk Dance Festivals in 1944 and 1947 is a highlight. The chapter tells the story of how Israeli folk dance started, what citizens aimed to create, and the questions and tensions they grappled with in the process. --S

About the author:

Nina S. Spiegel is the Rabbi Joshua Stampfer Assistant Professor of Israel Studies at Portland State University. She holds a PhD in history from Stanford University, and her articles have appeared in publications such as Jewish Cultural Studies, Jewish Folklore and Ethnology Review, and Rethinking History: The Journal of Theory and Practice. She has also served on the board of directors of the Congress on Research in Dance.

See http://wsupress.wayne.edu/books/detail/embodying-hebrew-culture

Finally . . . memories from our readers:

Folk Dance Flashbacks

Geri Kern Crain:

Great "classic" folk dance memory for me: As a kid, joining my big sisters Sue and Debbi for folk dancing at the JCC, in Washington Park, wherever, didn't matter...the best part was going to Plush Pippin afterward!

Esther Oulman Swart:

Sue, I was maybe 6 or 7 years old. We were at Temple Beth, I think, for an evening event. I remember sitting along the stage eating dessert and the Israeli music started playing. You grabbed my hand and pulled me into the circle and I was a fan of yours (cool teenager that you were), ever since!

Sue Wendel to Esther and Candi:

Debbi and I babysat you and Esther when Esther was a new born. . . this makes me feel soooooooooooooooooooo old!!!

RE BACKGROUND OF DANCES

From Gary: If you want the background of dances, I could not do better than to quote Fred Berk’s paragraphs about 15 dances in his Hora newsletter. I sent them to the Australian Database web site and they are here. (FYI, I have the originals of all first 48 issues of Hora.)

http://www.israelidances.com/articles-FredBerk1.htm

http://www.israelidances.com/articles-FredBerk2.htm

Other notes are at http://israelidances.com/aboutthedances.htm

FAVORITE CLASSIC DANCES SENT IN BY PIFD READERS

From Jim: Starting the list of my favorite classical dances

I. Yemenite couple dances

Dodi Li

El Ginat Egoz

Ki Tinam

Orcha Bamidbar

Iti Milvanon

Ro'eh V'roah

II. Yemenite line dances

Bat Teman

Dror Yikra

Debkat Ha'abir (Debka Uriyah)

Likrat Shabat

From John: Thanks Sue: I'm very glad that this event (July 14 at the J 1:30 pm) is being arranged.

Here are some favorites which, in my opinion, we don't do enough of any more:

Eshebo

Na'ama

Hagva'ot Hakchulot

Kulanu Bamitzad

Rikdi

Hana'ava Babanot

K'shenotzetz Hatal

Ahava Asura

Ahava Rechoka

At Li'Or

Na'ara

Al Gemali

Tagidi

Al Hanissim

Ahava Mimabat Rishon

Besof Ma'agal

Rachel

Yardena

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