2004 Year in Review

Jennifer's Dance Studio receives 'Gold' at competition

Dancers from Jennifer's Dance Studio that participated in the International Dance Challenge.
Front L to R Taylor Benters, Shannon Finneran, Samantha Vanderlaan
Middle L to R Emily Skelton, Jamie Ware, Morgan Shirk, Sheridan Quick, Marti Brandt, Stacy Meurs, Maggie Slavin
Back L to R Sarah Smith, Mollie McNitt, Rachel Workman, Kelsey Rickels, Ashley Kophamer, Allie Huizenga, Ailey Sonberg, Hannah Bees, Cameron Bierman, and Kelcie Fullmer

There is a long tradition of dancing in Morrison but competition dancing is relatively new. Jennifer Bielema, owner of Jennifer’s Dance Studio, at 105 West Main Street, has been taking her students around to area competitions for several years.

The troupe performed at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on March 20, 2004 at the International Dance Challenge (IDC). The IDC celebrates its 7th season this year and travel to approximately 55 cities.

Three Morrison groups won Gold Awards. The Junior Division (11-12 year olds) danced an Irish dance to “Fleet of Flames”. They also won a Trophy for overall high score in Junior Line Ethnic/Folkloric Division, Trophy for Best Precision, and Entertainment Challenge Contender

The Senior Division (13-14 year olds) performed an Open Line Dance to “Hungry Like the Wolf” and Line Clogging performed to “Ready to Go”. Besides the Gold Award, they were chosen for the Entertainment Challenge Contender for both performances and chose to do their clog for the Challenge. They also won a Trophy for Best Precision.

Jennifer’s Dance Studio will present a local recital on May 15, 2004, at the Morrison High School Auditorium.

by Barb Benson, theCity1.com
March 23, 2004