Vermilion’s newest dance school, Celtic Jewel Irish Dance, held its first class at Lighten Up Therapy in Vermilion on September 12. Instructor, 15-year-old Sidney Uden, led the class beginning with the importance of stretching, followed by the introduction of several techniques. This is Uden’s 3rd year instructing, and she attends Grade 10 at J.R. Robson School. Owner, Joanne Uden, said that her maternal great-great-grandparents and her paternal grandparents had both emigrated from Ireland to Canada. “I’ve always loved Irish dance, but never had access in a small rural area. The final deciding factor in opening this school was that on June 29, my mother had her third major stroke. On the 12 hour drive to visit her, Sidney and I discussed the idea. My mother doesn’t have all of her memory, but surprising even the doctors, is still walking and talking; her name is Jewel. We are thrilled and nervous; everything that comes along with doing something outside of your comfort zone.” Celtic Jewel Irish Dance offers classes for boys and girls aged three and up, and are hoping to offer an adult class. For more information, you can call 780-581-4845.