If you’d like to learn or return to dancing after a break, the SWCC in Gabriel Park, 6820 SW 45th Ave, is offering a 5-week beginner’s class starting Sunday, October 6th, 2:30-3:30, followed by open dancing until 4:50 pm.

Sue Wendel, class instructor, has been dancing for decades. She teaches and has led open dance sessions, attended dance workshops with Israeli choreographers, and has planned Israeli dance events in Portland over the years -- attended by hundreds. The beginners class is Sundays, 10/6-11/3, 2:30-3:30, 14 yrs and up, registration is required.

Rhona Feldman, open session leader, has taught dancers for over 15 years. She attends workshops around the U.S. regularly where she learns new dances and has a large repertoire of classic dances as well. The open session is ongoing, 3:30-4:50. Drop-ins welcome, 14 yrs and up, $6/$5 seniors at the door.

“When we ask dancers to describe Israeli folk dancing in one word, the most common response is -- joy,” said Sue. With Rhona adding, “It brings people together for recreation, to make new friends, and to celebrate this Israeli cultural treasure.”

To register for the SWCC beginners class, please call 503-823-2840. Open dance is drop-in.

For current Israeli folk dance information visit “Israeli Folk Dancing in Portland, OR” on Facebook.

Visit the website “PIFD News,” sites.google.com/site/pifdnews, for basic information on all the Portland area sessions and classes, history of Israeli folk dancing in Portland, and more.