Current and recent e-newsletters

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, February 20, 2025

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).

NOTE:  As we all know, John Uhlemann's Radio Show of 32 years, "Music from the Hills," on KDHX was been canceled.  The Board of Directors of the Double Helix Corporation has decided to sell the station in lieu of accepting an offer from over 88 Associate Members and 250 local merchants to settle the station's debts.  A petition as been issued to stop the sale of KDHX. The sale has to go through the FCC.  Petitions of this nature will greatly help them to make their case in court.  John has issued a call to everyone to help by signing the petition.  To sign the petition, just click on (Block the Sale of KDHX ).   

Last Thursday, February 13th, Nancy put the petal to the metal with non-stop dancing (except for announcements).  GREAT JOB NANCY for an INCREDIBLE  EVENING of DANCING!

To view the photos from last Thursday, click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, February 20th, John P will take the HELM as the evening's programmer.  GET READY to KICK UP YOUR HEELS at FOLK DANCE with JOHN P!  COME AND DANCE WITH US!

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Karen Heim, Faye Reiter, Linda Small, Katie Cahill, Patrick Cahill and Hazel Kirk.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, February 13, 2025

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).

NOTE:  As we all know, John Uhlemann's Radio Show of 32 years, "Music from the Hills," on KDHX was been canceled.  The Board of Directors of the Double Helix Corporation has decided to sell the station in lieu of accepting an offer from over 88 Associate Members and 250 local merchants to settle the station's debts.  A petition as been issued to stop the sale of KDHX. The sale has to go through the FCC.  Petitions of this nature will greatly help them to make their case in court.  John has issued a call to everyone to help by signing the petition.  To sign the petition, just click on (Block the Sale of KDHX ).   

Last Thursday, February 6th, Barbara B did another outstanding job with a great selection of dances.  THANK YOU BARBARA B for a WONDERFUL EVENING of DANCING!

To view the photos from last Thursday, click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, February 13th, Nancy, will be the evening's programmer.  WE'ER GOING to have BLAST at FOLK DANCE with NANCY!  COME AND DANCE WITH US!

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Karen Heim, Faye Reiter, Linda Small, Katie Cahill, Patrick Cahill and Hazel Kirk.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, February 6, 2025

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).

NOTE:  We are all saddened to hear that John Uhlemann's Radio Program, "Music From The Hills" has been cancelled.  For 32 years, John has brought beautiful Folk Dance Music into our homes.  For 32 years we have all enjoyed listening to his wonderful selection of music from all over the world.  Well Done John for this remarkable achievement and thank you for this wonderful gift you have given to us for 32 years. 

Last Thursday, January 30th, John U came up with great program that kept everyone dancing.  WELL DONE JOHN U and THANK YOU for ANOTHER SUPERB EVENING of DANCING!

To view the photos from last Thursday, click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, February 6th, Barbara B, is up as the evening's programmer. GET READY of a GREAT EVENING of DANCING with BARBARA B!  COME AND DANCE WITH US!

February 7, 2025, Friday.  IFDA has been asked to do a short performance during the International Night at Wydown Middle School, 6500 Wydown Blvd, Clayton, MO 63105.  The event times are from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.  IFDA will be doing dances that are done at Thursday Night Folk Dance.  Anyone wishing to participate in the performance, please contact Barbara Bleisch at 314-630-0344  or bdbleisch@gmail.com.

February 9, 2025, Sunday, will be the Super Bowl Party at the Coutures' house starting at 5 p.m., game starts at 5:30.  Ok, it will be our own KANSAS CITY CHIEFS vs. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES.  Will the Chiefs make NFL history by being the first team ever to win a SUPER BOWL THREE-PEAT or will the Eagles win their second Super Bowl?  So, hang on to your seats everyone for a Super Bowl that could make history.  Bring dishes, drinks, desserts for the Super Bowl Potluck.  Bring your favorite game or puzzles or watch the game and root for your favorite team.  If interested in attending, please contact Nancy or Rex at (314) 786-5098.

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Karen Heim, Faye Reiter, Linda Small, Katie Cahill, Patrick Cahill and Hazel Kirk.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, January 30, 2025

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).

Last Thursday, January 23rd, Zeke did an excellent job reviewing dances for a group of new people - then he did an excellent job as the evening's programmer.  THANK YOU ZEKE for an WONDERFUL EVENING of TEACHING and DANCING!

To view the photos from last Thursday, click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, January 30th, John U, will take the HELM as the evening's programmer. WE HAVE an OUTSTANDING EVENING of DANCING COMING UP WITH JOHN U - DON'T MISS IT!  COME AND DANCE WITH US!

January 29, 2025, Wednesday, there will be A presentation of Eastern European Folk Costumes by Marvin Moehle starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Buder Library, 4401 Hampton Avenue 63109 in the 3rd floor multi purpose room.  The focus will be on embroidery, felting, and weaving.  Marvin will be bringing pieces that show the exquisite workmanship of these art forms, and will be presented to a group that is all about things that are hand stitched.  This is a rare opportunity to see hand work that dates back 100 years or more.  Many of the skills required to create these pieces are no longer well known or widely practiced.  So, because of Marvin’s dedication to preserving them, we have the chance to see them in person.  This event is free and open to the public, so please feel free to join us.  If you have any questions call or text Sylvia Stallings @ 314-920-3635.

February 2, 2025, Sunday, Music From The Hills, hosted by John Uhlemann, 4 - 6 p.m., KDHX - 88.1 FM.  John will be doing Music of the Roma, ranging from Hungarian and Slovak music to the Roma of the Balkans.

(UPDATED) February 7, 2025, Friday.  IFDA has been asked to do a short performance during the International Night at Wydown Middle School, 6500 Wydown Blvd, Clayton, MO 63105.  The event times are from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.  IFDA will be doing dances that are done at Thursday Night Folk Dance.  Anyone wishing to participate in the performance, please contact Barbara Bleisch at 314-630-0344  or bdbleisch@gmail.com.

February 9, 2025, Sunday, will be the Super Bowl Party at the Coutures' house starting at 5 p.m., game starts at 5:30.  Bring dishes, drinks, desserts for the Super Bowl Potluck.  Bring your favorite game or puzzles or watch the game and root for your favorite team.  If interested in attending, please contact Nancy or Rex at (314) 786-5098.

JANUARY  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to John Puterbaugh, Jessica Robertson, Hande Berk and Susie Stauber.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, January 23, 2025

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).

From Barbara Uhlemann:

A Thank You to IFDA from the Confluence Chamber Orchestra.

The members of Confluence Chamber Orchestra asked me to convey their thanks to IFDA for participating in the performance on December 27 at the Saint Louis Art Museum. The dancing was a wonderful part of the overall success of the evening. It was a great opportunity for the orchestra and IFDA’s contribution made it all the more special. 

From Roger Hill:

Bad news:  Just found out that my house is gone.  I couldn’t get anything out of the sheriffs office, but I found that an old friend of mine is living in the area and refused to evacuate and seems to be free to drive around as long as he doesn’t get out of the perimeter. He went by my house and confirmed that it had burned down.

We are so sorry to hear that Roger lost his house to the wildfires in Altadena, California.  Hang in there Roger, our thoughts and hearts are with you.

Last Thursday, January 16th, John P, did a fantastic job with a great selection fun dances.  EXCELLENT EVENING OF DANCING JOHN P and THANK YOU SO MUCH!

To view the photos from last Thursday, click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, January 23rd, Zeke, is up as the evening's programmer.   DON'T MISS ANOTHER FUN EVENING  of DANCING WITH ZEKE.  COME AND DANCE WITH US!

January 26, 2025, Sunday, Music From The Hills, hosted by John Uhlemann, 4 - 6 p.m., KDHX - 88.1 FM.  John will be doing a pre-recorded show (Turkish music) while he is at Folk Ball in Wisconsin.

January 29, 2025, Wednesday, there will be A presentation of Eastern European Folk Costumes by Marvin Moehle starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Buder Library, 4401 Hampton Avenue 63109 in the 3rd floor multi purpose room.  The focus will be on embroidery, felting, and weaving.  Marvin will be bringing pieces that show the exquisite workmanship of these art forms, and will be presented to a group that is all about things that are hand stitched.  This is a rare opportunity to see hand work that dates back 100 years or more.  Many of the skills required to create these pieces are no longer well known or widely practiced.  So, because of Marvin’s dedication to preserving them, we have the chance to see them in person.  This event is free and open to the public, so please feel free to join us.  If you have any questions call or text Sylvia Stallings @ 314-920-3635.

(NEW) February 7, 2025, Friday.  IFDA has been asked to do a short performance during the International Night at Wydown Middle School, 6500 Wydown Blvd, Clayton, MO 63105.  The event times are from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.  IFDA will be doing dances that are done at Thursday Night Folk Dance.  For more information, contact Barbara Bleisch at 314-630-0344  or bdbleisch@gmail.com.

(NEW) February 9, 2025, Tuesday will be the Super Bowl Party at the Coutures' house starting at 5 p.m., game starts at 5:30.  Bring dishes, drinks, desserts for the Super Bowl Potluck.  Bring your favorite game or puzzles or watch the game and root for your favorite team.  If interested in attending, please contact Nancy or Rex at 314 786 5098.

JANUARY  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to John Puterbaugh, Jessica Robertson, Hande Berk and Susie Stauber.

FDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, January 9, 2025

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).

Attached are photos of the IFDA Board Members -  Introducing Thalia Budia our new Board Member for 2025.  We thank our Board Members for their excellent service to IFDA.

Attached are photos of the IFDA Programming & Teaching Committee.  We thank our IFDA Programmers for their outstanding commitment to bring high quality dancing and teaching to our IFDA Members.

We also thank our IFDA Members for their dedication and commitment to keep IFDA Viable and a lot of fun. 

On Friday, December 27th over at the Saint Louis Art Museum at the Shall We Dance event, everyone enjoyed listening to the music played by the Confluence Chamber Orchestra and watching IFDA members dance waltzes, polkas including a couple dance, 't smidje.  Thanks to Barbara Uhlemann for providing the information and flyer and Sylvia Stallings for the photos and video.

To view the photos and video from the Shall We Dance event click on (View Photos).  

Last Thursday, January 2nd, Nancy, the first Programmer of 2025 came up with a great dance program at the first folk dance of 2025.  THANK YOU NANCY for TAKING US INTO THE NEW YEAR with a WONDERFUL EVENING of FUN DANCING!

For this upcoming Thursday, January 9th, Barbara B, will continue into the new year as the evening's programmer.  DON'T MISS the ANOTHER EVENING of FUN DANCING with BARBARA B  COME AND DANCE WITH US!

JANUARY  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to John Puterbaugh, Jessica Robertson, Hande Berk and Susie Stauber.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, January 2, 2025

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).  

Last Thursday, December 26th, at the  IFDA NEW YEAR'S PARTY, Zeke, the last Programmer of 2024, came up with wonderful dance program to fit the occasion.  THANK YOU ZEKE for ENDING the YEAR with a GREAT EVENING of FUN DANCING!  THANK YOU EVERYONE for BRINGING ALL THOSE DELICIOUS GOODIES AND SNACKS and THANK YOU MARVIN for a GREAT CUP of COFFEE!  

To view the photos from last Thursday evening click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, January 2nd, Barbara B, will be the first Programmer of 2025.  DON'T MISS the FIRST FOLK DANCE of 2025 with BARBARA B to start the NEW YEAR with some GREAT DANCING!  COME AND DANCE WITH US!

Music From The Hills.  From John Uhlemann: "Sunday December 29th was my last show of the year, or maybe my last show - stay tuned for the late January manifestation of music from the Hills, whether it will be there, or return in a new form, I don't know; it has been a great 32 1/2 years and I have had a lot of fun."

Congratulations John on your remarkable achievement of 32 1/2 years of Folk Dance Music that so many have enjoyed over the years.  We are all hoping for all the best that Music From The Hills will return in 2025.

(NEW) December 31, Tuesday, Nancy & Rex Couture will be hosting their New Year's Eve Party at their house starting at 8 p.m.  If interested in attending, please contact Nancy or Rex at 314 786 5098.

JANUARY  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to John Puterbaugh, Jessica Robertson, Hande Berk and Susie Stauber.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, December 26, 2024 (IFDA NEW YEAR'S PARTY)

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).  

Last Thursday, December 19th, at the IFDA Holiday Party, Everyone had a great time chatting and dining together at the IFDA Holiday Dinner over at the Sabroso Cocina Mexicana restaurant.  We had a wonderful turnout of Folk Dancers for dinner and dancing.  Thank you Nancy (and Everyone else who lent a helping hand) for coordinating this wonderful dinner and thank you Everyone for being there.   After dinner, John U came up with another excellent evening of dancing as the evening's programmer.  GOOD GOING JOHN U and THANK YOU SO MUCH for an GREAT EVENING of FUN DANCING!  THANK YOU NANCY and EVERYONE for MAKING this a VERY SPECIAL EVENING of FOLK DANCING!

And we Thank John Puterbaugh with his Accordion for giving us some wonderful live music.

To view the photos from last Thursday evening click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, December 26th, Zeke will hosting be the, IFDA NEW YEAR'S PARTY.  Let's all get together to CELEBRATE A GREAT YEAR of dancing & teaching.  Bring your favorite New Year's Snacks, Munchies or Drinks and if you want, wear something New Year's Evesey.  DON'T MISS the LAST FOLK DANCE of 2024 with ZEKE (and EVERYONE)!  COME AND DANCE WITH US FOR ONE LAST TIME in 2024!

COME ONE COME ALL…..TO OUR NEW YEAR'S BALL!

December 27, Friday, 6:45 to 8:00 p.m. at the Saint Louis Art Museum, follow up the IFDA New Year's Party by attending Festive Friday with live music by the Confluence Chamber Orchestra.  The orchestra will be playing waltzes, polkas, maybe a grand march in the great marble space of Sculpture Hall.  Dancing is encouraged!  This event is free and open to all. Information courtesy of Barbara Uhlemann.  Flyer Enclosed.

December 29, Sunday, Music From The Hills, hosted by John Uhlemann, 4 - 6 p.m., KDHX - 88.1 FM. KDHX - 88.1 FM.  John  will be doing his traditional New Year’s Eve program - some new Year’s songs, some drinking songs, some dance songs.

DECEMBER  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Claire Keefe and Diana Blanchard.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, December 12, 2024 (IFDA HOLIDAY PARTY)

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).  

Last Thursday, December 12th, John P came up with another outstanding evening of dancing.  Everyone had a great time shopping at Luxury Market.  We thank Barbara Bleisch and Sylvia Stallings for the organization and setup and Everyone else for their assistance and donations.  We also thank Diana Blanchard for contributing a large portion of the donations.  YOU DID A GREAT JOB JOHN P and THANK YOU SO MUCH for an EVENING of FUN DANCING! 

IFDA Annual Meeting.

Nancy Couture (IFDA President) presided over the Annual Meeting beginning with the Treasurers Report submitted by  our treasurer Barbara Uhlemann.  Our total income was $14,871 with expenses of $9610.  Our door receipts were $806 higher than last year indicating an increase in attendance. The Anniversary Party netted $5042 with $305 in memorial donations.  Currently we have $10,430 in the bank.

Thanks were given to Barbara Uhlemann (Treasurer); Our programmers Zeke Leventhal-Anold (Committee chairman), John Uhlemann, John Puterbaugh, Nancy Couture and Barbara Bleisch including Sue Kelly for helping with the set-ups; Mary Tokes for setting up NEXTDOOR; Rex Couture for setting up and keeping our website updated;  Barbara Bleisch for teaching at the public libraries with assistance from John U, Zeke, Sue, Mary and Nancy.

Congratulations to the re-election of Barbara Bleisch, Sue Kelly and Sylvia Stallings to the IFDA Board.  And congratulations to the election of Thalia Budai to the Board replacing Cathy Swanson.  And thanks to Cathy for her many years of service on the IFDA Board.

The Performance Committee has been re-activated, spearheaded by Barbara Bleisch.  Dancers interested in participating can check with her. 

It's been a long journey of determination and perseverance from dancing in the park one day a month to the Focal Point as a viable, self sustaining Thursday Night Folk Dance group like we were a long, long time ago.  For that, we all should be proud of this remarkable accomplishment.

And to our IFDA Board President, Nancy Couture, Well Done Nancy and thank you so much.

Gene

To view the photos from last Thursday evening click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, December 19th, will be the IFDA Holiday Party with dinner starting at 5:15 p.m. next door to Focal Point at Sabroso Cocina Mexicana.  If you did not have a chance to sign up for the dinner and want to attend, you can let Nancy Couture (nancycouture86@gmail.com) know if you plan to be there.  Everyone orders independently.  After dinner there will be a TALENT SHOW with regular attendees performing hidden or not so hidden talents.  Each performance will  be limited to 3-5 minutes.  After the show, folk dancing will start at it's regular time, 7:00 p.m. with John U as the evening's programmer.  WITH JOHN U, GET READY a GREAT EVENING of DANCING and DON'T MISS THIS SPECIAL EVENING OF TOGETHERNESS as WE DINE TOGETHER HEART TO HEART and DANCE TOGETHER HAND IN HAND with GOOD HOLIDAY SPIRIT and with GOOD CHEER.

                                            ********** COME ONE COME ALL TO OUR HOLIDAY BALL **********

December 22, Sunday, Music From The Hills, hosted by John Uhlemann, 4 - 6 p.m., KDHX - 88.1 FM. KDHX - 88.1 FM.  John will be doing his annual Christmas show - Celtic, American, Portuguese, and other goodies.

December 26, Thursday, IFDA NEW YEAR'S PARTY at The Focal Point.  Lets all get together to CELEBRATE A GREAT YEAR of dancing & teaching.  Bring your favorite New Year's Snacks, Munchies or Drinks and if you want, wear something New Year's Evesey.

December 27, Friday, 6:45 to 8:00 p.m. at the Saint Louis Art Museum, follow up the IFDA New Year's Party by attending Festive Friday with live music by the Confluence Chamber Orchestra.  The orchestra will be playing waltzes, polkas, maybe a grand march in the great marble space of Sculpture Hall.  Dancing is encouraged!  This event is free and open to all. Information courtesy of Barbara Uhlemann.

DECEMBER  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Claire Keefe and Diana Blanchard.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, November 21, 2024

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).  

NOTE:  Attached is the current Programming and Teaching Schedule for November, 2024 - March, 2025.

Last Thursday, November 14th, Zeke did another fantastic job with a fun selection of dances to a great crowd of folk dancers.  WELL DONE ZEKE and THANK YOU for ANOTHER WONDERFUL EVENING of FOLK DANCING!  AND THANK YOU EVERYONE for DANCING WITH US!

For this upcoming Thursday, November 21st, Nancy is back as the evening's programmer.  WITH NANCY at the HELM, GET READY for ANOTHER INCREDIBLE EVENING of DANCING!  COME AND DANCE WITH US.

November 24, Sunday, Music From The Hills, hosted by John Uhlemann, 4 - 6 p.m., KDHX - 88.1 FM. KDHX - 88.1 FM.  John will be playing music from the Caucasus - Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaidzhan, etc.

November 28, Thursday, Thanksgiving.  Potluck Dinner at 5:30 p.m.  Folk Dancing will start at it's regular time, 7:00 p.m.

December 7, Saturday,  IFDA Folk Dance Classes for teens and adults at the Thornhill Library, 12863 Willowyck Drive, St. Louis, MO.  Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.  Put your dancing shoes on, learn steps to various folk dances.  Barbara Bleisch will be doing the teaching. Registration is not required - simply show up.

December 7, Saturday, will be a Concert and Dance Party featuring traditional Music from Norway and Sweden, at the Parkway United Church of Christ, 2841 North Ballas, St. Louis, MO starting at 5:00 P.m.  Suggested donation $20 to $30, children, free.

December 12, Thursday, 8:45 - 9:00 p.m., IFDA ANNUAL MEETING and election of Board Members at The Focal Point.  Folk dancing will resume after the meeting.  There will be a flea market featuring scarves, jewelry, pictures and more, much donated by Diana Blanchard. If you wish to donate contact Barbara Bleisch (BBLEISCH@aol.com).  Donations will go toward performance costumes.

December 19, Thursday, IFDA HOLIDAY PARTY at The Focal Point.  Dinner starts at 5:15 next door to Focal Point at Sabroso Cocina Mexicana.  For restaurant planning purposes a sign-up sheet is at the door on Thursdays or you can let Nancy Couture (nancycouture86@gmail.com) know if you plan to be there. Everyone orders independently.  TALENT SHOW: Hidden or not so hidden talents among regular attendees will be invited to share these in a talent show following dinner. Each number to be limited to 3-5 min. SIgn up is required.

December 26, Thursday, IFDA NEW YEAR'S PARTY at The Focal Point.  Lets all get together to CELEBRATE A GREAT YEAR of dancing & teaching.  Bring your favorite New Year's Snacks, Munchies or Drinks and if you want, wear something New Year's Evesey.

December 27, Friday, 6:45 to 8:00 p.m. at the Saint Louis Art Museum, follow up the IFDA New Year's Party by attending Festive Friday with live music by the Confluence Chamber Orchestra.  The orchestra will be playing waltzes, polkas, maybe a grand march in the great marble space of Sculpture Hall.  Dancing is encouraged!  This event is free and open to all. Information courtesy of Barbara Uhlemann.

NOVEMBER  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Sarah Falkoff and Toni Schneider.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, November 14, 2024

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).  

Last Thursday, November 7th, John U did double duty by coming up with a fun selection of dances and teaching a nice Serbian dance, "Cacak" from Cana Trava in Serbia.  THANK YOU JOHN U for ANOTHER OUTSTANDING EVENING of DANCING and TEACHING!

A note of kindness and generosity:  A wonderful bouquet of roses and carnations appeared in the arms of Thalia Budai at folk dance.  What an uplifting message in a darker context. Thank you Thalia for your spirit and generosity.

To view the photos from last Thursday evening click on (View Photos).

For this upcoming Thursday, November 14th, Zeke will be doing the evening's programming. DON'T MISS  ANOTHER FANTASTIC  EVENING of DANCING with ZEKE!  COME AND DANCE WITH US.

November 17, Sunday, Music From The Hills, hosted by John Uhlemann, 4 - 6 p.m., KDHX - 88.1 FM. KDHX - 88.1 FM.  John will be playing Portuguese music with a concentration on Fado, as a prelude to a concert of Fado at the Sheldon on November 21st.

(NEW) November 28, Thursday, Thanksgiving.  Potluck Dinner at 5:30 p.m.  Folk Dancing will start at it's regular time, 7:00 p.m.

December 7, Saturday,  IFDA Folk Dance Classes for teens and adults at the Thornhill Library, 12863 Willowyck Drive, St. Louis, MO.  Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.  Put your dancing shoes on, learn steps to various folk dances.  Barbara Bleisch will be doing the teaching. Registration is not required - simply show up.

(NEW) December 7, Saturday, will be a Concert and Dance Party featuring traditional Music from Norway and Sweden, at the Parkway United Church of Christ, 2841 North Ballas, St. Louis, MO starting at 5:00 P.m.  Suggested donation $20 to $30, children, free.  Flyer enclosed.

(UPDATED) December 12, Thursday, 8:45 - 9:00 p.m., IFDA ANNUAL MEETING and election of Board Members at The Focal Point.  Folk dancing will resume after the meeting.  There will be a flea market featuring scarves, jewelry, pictures and more, much donated by Diana Blanchard. If you wish to donate contact Barbara Bleisch (BBLEISCH@aol.com).  Donations will go toward performance costumes.

(UPDATED) December 19, Thursday, IFDA HOLIDAY PARTY at The Focal Point.  Dinner starts at 5:15 next door to Focal Point at Sabroso Cocina Mexicana.  For restaurant planning purposes a sign-up sheet is at the door on Thursdays or you can let Nancy Couture (nancycouture86@gmail.com) know if you plan to be there. Everyone orders independently.  TALENT SHOW: Hidden or not so hidden talents among regular attendees will be invited to share these in a talent show following dinner. Each number to be limited to 3-5 min. SIgn up is required.

(UPDATED) December 26, Thursday, IFDA NEW YEAR'S PARTY at The Focal Point.  Lets all get together to CELEBRATE A GREAT YEAR of dancing & teaching.  Bring your favorite New Year's Snacks, Munchies or Drinks and if you want, wear something New Year's Evesey.

(UPDATED) December 27, Friday, 6:45 to 8:00 p.m. at the Saint Louis Art Museum, follow up the IFDA New Year's Party by attending Festive Friday with live music by the Confluence Chamber Orchestra.  The orchestra will be playing waltzes, polkas, maybe a grand march in the great marble space of Sculpture Hall.  Dancing is encouraged!  This event is free and open to all. Information courtesy of Barbara Uhlemann.

NOVEMBER  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Sarah Falkoff and Toni Schneider.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, November 7, 2024

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).  

Last Thursday, October 31st, everyone had a great time dancing to the live music of Mensur (accordion) and Jerry (drums) along with Nancy's wonderful selection of dances.  THANK YOU NANCY, MENSUR and JERRY for a m  WONDERFUL EVENING of DANCING to LIVE and PROGRAMMED MUSIC!

NOTE: The IFDA dinosaur fossil (Triceratops Frill) is currently on display at the Eureka Hills Library.  It will remain on display for the month of November.

For this upcoming Thursday, November 7th, TBD is up and the evening's Programmer.  NO MATTER WHO the PROGRAMMER will be, IT WILL BE ANOTHER OUTSTANDING EVENING of DANCING!  COME AND DANCE WITH US.

November 10, Sunday, Music From The Hills, hosted by John Uhlemann, 4 - 6 p.m., KDHX - 88.1 FM. KDHX - 88.1 FM.  John will be playing Music from that lovely trip-corner of Republic of Macedonia, Bulgarian Macedonia (Pirin), and Greek Macedonia.

December 7, Saturday,  IFDA Folk Dance Classes for teens and adults at the Thornhill Library, 12863 Willowyck Drive, St. Louis, MO.  Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.  Put your dancing shoes on, learn steps to various folk dances.  Barbara Bleisch will be doing the teaching. Registration is not required - simply show up.

December 12, Thursday, 8:45 p.m., IFDA ANNUAL MEETING and election of Board Members at The Focal Point.

December 19, Thursday, IFDA HOLIDAY PARTY  at The Focal Point.  Stay tuned for more information.

December 26, Thursday, IFDA NEW YEAR'S PARTY at The Focal Point.  Stay tuned for more information.

December 27, Friday, follow up the IFDA New Year's Party by attending Festive Friday at the St. Louis Art Museum with live music by the Confluence Chamber Orchestra.  The orchestra will be playing waltzes, polkas, maybe a grand march in the great marble space of Sculpture Hall.  Dancing is encouraged!  This event is free and open to all.  More information will be forthcoming.  Information courtesy of Barbara Uhlemann.

NOVEMBER  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Sarah Falkoff and Toni Schneider.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday, October 31, 2024

IFDA LINKS: IFDA Website, IFDA Facebook Group, IFDA Folk Dance Albums

IFDA Thursday Night Folk Dance at the Focal Point, 2720 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, 7 - 9:30 p.m.  Admission: $5.00 per person (free if under 18).

We are all saddened to hear that Zeke Leventhal-Arnold's Father, Jack Leventhal passed away on Saturday, October 27 due to Alzheimer's at the age of 96.  We all want to express our most sincere and deep condolences to Zeke, his Family and Friends for their loss.  You will always remain in our hearts and mind.

NOTE:  I just received word from Nancy Couture that the Focal Point has cancelled their concert for Thursday,  October 31st.  Therefore we will not be dancing at the Irish Art's Building that evening, instead will be dancing at our regular location, The Focal Point.   

Last Thursday, October 24th, everyone had a great time dancing at IFDA HALLOWEEN PARTY with Zeke as the Halloweeny Host.  GREAT JOB ZEKE & THANK YOU SO MUCH and THANK YOU EVERYONE for BEING THERE and BRINGING ALL THOSE DELICIOUS HALLOWEEN MUNCHIES!

For this upcoming Thursday, October 31st, Nancy will be the evening's Programmer.  GET READY for a GREAT TIME on the DANCE FLOOR with NANCY!  COME AND DANCE WITH US.

To view the photos from this Thursday evening click on (View Photos).

November 3, Sunday, Music From The Hills, hosted by John Uhlemann, 4 - 6 p.m., KDHX - 88.1 FM. KDHX - 88.1 FM.  John will be playing Music from Pakistan and surrounding areas.  He will concentrate on an ecstatic style of religious music called Qawalli.  John will try to fit a bit of dance music in as well.

December 7, Saturday,  IFDA Folk Dance Classes for teens and adults at the Thornhill Library, 12863 Willowyck Drive, St. Louis, MO.  Time: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.  Put your dancing shoes on, learn steps to various folk dances.  Barbara Bleisch will be doing the teaching. Registration is not required - simply show up.

December 12, Thursday, 8:45 p.m., IFDA ANNUAL MEETING and election of Board Members at The Focal Point.

December 19, Thursday, IFDA HOLIDAY PARTY  at The Focal Point.  Stay tuned for more information.

December 26, Thursday, IFDA NEW YEAR'S PARTY at The Focal Point.  Stay tuned for more information.

December 27, Friday, follow up the IFDA New Year's Party by attending Festive Friday at the St. Louis Art Museum with live music by the Confluence Chamber Orchestra.  The orchestra will be playing waltzes, polkas, maybe a grand march in the great marble space of Sculpture Hall.  Dancing is encouraged!  This event is free and open to all.  More information will be forthcoming.  Information courtesy of Barbara Uhlemann.

OCTOBER  BIRTHDAYS - Happy Birthdays to Ellen Dorfmann, Barbara Uhlemann, Roisin Halfar and Christine & Dimana Spudich.

IFDA Weekly Reminder for Thursday,  March 21, 2024 (HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY)