The Official Convention Plugger By: T. Pratt 7-03-2008
The Home for REAL Steppers is giving you the very first look at the Official Chicago Steppers Convention Plugger. Much love to Christine Jones and the Dreamgirls, Pete Frazier and the Majestic Gents, and Preston Adams and Bill G. of VIP Productions, for coming together to bring a Steppers event of historical proportions to the city of Chicago. If the World's Largest Steppers Contest is the Super Bowl of Steppin', the convention will surely be the World Series. CLICK HERE to check out the Official plugger. Visit www.cscsteps.com to check out the convention home page. -------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
ChiStepper's First Book Club Meeting By: B. Taylor 7-02-2008
On Saturday, June 28th the Chistepper.com book club had its first meeting at the home of our gracious hostess, Crystal Fuller a/k/a Steppinlady2, and I have only one word - WOW! Never have I seen such bonding among women that were virtual strangers to each other. The gloves came off and our hair was let down. I was at first a little apprehensive and silent because I needed to study the sisters at the meeting (and still suffering from the after effects of Friday night at Orbies), and after the first initial observation I was thoroughly pleased with what I saw - a crew of strong intelligent powerful forces in the house.
Being Married on the Steppers Scene By: Tracey Bivens (Imasteppa) 7-02-2008
Chistepper receives a lot of requests from its readers to explore relationships in the steppin' world. As a rule, many men and women shy away from getting involved with people on the set for fear of the relationship being exploited in the public eye. Others look at dating on the steppin' scene as a temporary fix to keep from dealing with things on the home front. Well, Chistepper took the opportunity to explore the relationships of a couple married couples on the scene to see what they could contribute to the view of love and steppin'. We had a round table discussion with two couples picked at random, the first being Mykel and Deon Farr from Milwaukee, who have been married for 8 years and have been steppin' together for 5 of those years. The second couple, Cheryl and Devan from Atlanta two members of True Passion Steppers, who began dating in 1995 and have been married for 5 years. This interview was anything but typical!
Contest Talk: Steppin Across America - Detroit Prelims By: T. Pratt 7-01-2008
ChiStepper's Tracey Bivens blessed us with this link from Detroit's 105.9 KISS FM website STEPPIN ACROSS AMERICA. Interestingly, they are only advertising 2 categories here - Freestyle and Original. Then, the wording is kinda tricky, as it reads that they will compete for "their share of $10,000." Does this mean total or per category. The other tid bit of information gathered here is that 52 Couples will be allowed, and ChiStepper is not clear whether that's total or per category. Merry Green, its time to give ChiStepper's a ring (or an email) ... we're piecing this thing together little by little and its getting more and more confusing by the day. -------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Columbus Steppin Divas Set (How to Build a New Community of Steppers) By: Andre Lampkins 7-01-2008
Okay, so I’m sure at this point every one has at read, heard about or experienced one of the out-of-Chicago steppers communities that have been influenced by what has been and continues to be a way of life “The Chi.” In my opinion, this past Saturday was a perfect example of the recipe needed to grow one of those communities and at the same time make it viable, respected and genuine.
Contest Talk: Orbies Contest Prelims By: T. Pratt 6-30-2008
I made it over to Orbies for the first time to see the pinultimate preliminary session. The contestants were:
Earl & Renee Smoke & Rhonda Swan & Sunshine
While all the couples did a wonderful job, Swan and Sunshine looked really graceful on the floor and the audience responded as such. DJ Eric "ET" Taylor, who had taken about a year off, is now back in full force. I've seen "ET" at a number of different places lately and he's been doing his thing. He played mostly up-tempo records for the predominately new skool crowd.
On a different note, Orbies has a really nice layout. The dance floor is huge and there's an eating area up front with plush leather booths. Everything about the place was awesome ... well, I heard the food needed more seasoning ... but the Steppin' was great. A lot of Steppers were in the building including: Kiana Moore, Dominique Robinson (Silky Smooth), Babydoll, Tyk Myn, Ruby Red, Sharon Bolden, Greg Richardson (Majestic Gents), George, Steve (MAK 3), and more. ---------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Breaking News: Merry Green's "Steppin Across America" Shows Unity in Cleveland By: T. Pratt 6-27-2008
In an awesome and rather expediant show of unity, Merry Green changed the date of her Cleveland preliminary, as to keep from conflicting with the Gentlemen of Ballroom's 3 Day Steppers weekend. The new date for the Cleveland preliminary is July 19th at Club "Matrix" in Cleveland.
Merry's change of event date confirms two things for ChiStepper.com ... 1. That she supports the spirit of working together with fellow promoters, and 2. That the contest is STILL GOING TO HAPPEN! ChiStepper has no doubts at this point that there will be a contest on August 2nd. Stay tuned to the Home For REAL steppers for the latest and the greatest! ------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Contest Talk: Club D'Elegance Prelim Results By: T. Pratt 6-27-2008
The final preliminary at Club D'Elegance last night really spiced things up a bit. The following couples entered for their chance to win the $1,000 pot and the D'Elegance crown.
G. Porgie & Robin Summerrize Shareda Newbern & Tanya "Tee Tee" Nash Smoke Dixon & Rhonda Cliff "Big Slim" Reynolds & Jenny Nikee & Kelly
There were a number of happenings at D'Elegance this Thursday. General manager Bruce Martin pulled me aside and said that D'Elegance is no longer a sports bar, it's a steppers club. He is personally dedicating the club to steppers and he welcomes the steppin' family there to party. He also reported the audience that he is investing in wands, so steppers don't feel violated when they're searched at the door. Bruce also reported, yet again, that he always has his cell phone with him so if any stepper has a problem, he will straighten it out for them.
As for the contest, while Smoke and Rhonda were dancing to their third song, the music cut off. In true stepper fashion, they continued and the steppers audience provided the music with claps, stomps, and singing. Me, Big Slim, and Tee Tee provided the countdown for the dancers. Cliff Reynolds, who danced with Jenny, was rather unpleased with his scores (the judges have to show them after each performance) and felt that the heavy Dre & Company judging panel was against him. Judges for the prelims were:
Arlicia "Sha" Johnson Tabitha "Tab" Williams Tonya Sharon Bolden Bill Jones James Mitchell
Four of the six judges did have Dre and Company roots, interestingly however, only one of them gave him a really low score. As Cliff came back to the side, he retorted, "Maybe I need to go back to class" (sarcastically). A number of steppers popped in to jam including, Herk Williams, L. C. Henderson, Shanelle Martin, and Malinda Tyson. DJ Raphael, DJ Calvin, and Freddie Mack were in the booth. SteppersUSA's Markee Bee recorded the event. ---------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Steppin Across America Detroit Prelim By: T. Pratt 6-27-2008
The Steppin Across America contest seems alive and well. ChiStepper has received word that Merry Green will be hosting her Detroit prelims on July 11th, one day before the reported July 12th Cleveland prelims. Speaking of the Cleveland prelims, ChiStepper hears that certain individuals are exploring whether Merry Green is interested in hosting her prelims on Sunday instead of Saturday, as part of the Gentlemen of Ballroom Gala. It makes perfect sense,'cause that's where most of Cleveland's REAL steppers will be. --------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Orbies Contest to Heat Up Again Tonight By: T. Pratt 6-27-2008
ChiStepper hears that two awesome female dancers will throw there rocks in the Orbies contest pond tonight. That happens to be Tanya "Tee Tee" Nash and Sunshine Haywood. Sunshine is the queen of prelims, but she's never competed. ChiStepper is betting against her again tonight. We don't think she's going to dance. Challenge! On the other hand, Tee Tee, who looked great dancing with Shareda Newbern at the D'Elegance contest is a bonafide competitor, and whoever she dances with, this former Dave Maxx disciple is going to bring the heat. ------------------------------------ Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave your feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Contest Talk: Out-of-Town WLSC Prelim Schedule By: T. Pratt 6-26-2008
The out-of-town World's Largest Steppers Contest prelim schedule is complete and categories are as follows:
Friday, June 27th Toledo, OH (All Categories)
Friday, July 11th (Updated) Cleveland, OH (All Categories)
Saturday, July 19th Birmingham, AL - (Beginners Only)
Friday, August 2nd Baton Rouge, LA (All Categories)
Friday, August 16th Milwaukee, WI (All Categories)
Friday, August 29th Atlanta, GA --------------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
T. Pratt & Phyllis Yvonne Stickney By: T. Pratt 6-26-2008
Winner: Sharon Bowie of Evanstan wins two ChiStepper music mixes.
I had ChiStepper's stomped all day with guesses of Whoopi Goldberg, Ledisi and Iyanla Vanzant, but only one person got the answer correct. The actress featured here is none other than Phyllis Yvone Stickney, from the "Women of Brewster's Place," "Ink Well," and so many other major productions. Phyllis is not only an actress, she's a comedian and she kept us in stiches with jokes and even an impromptu monologue from the play "Vigina Monologues." Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
More Insight Into Steppin Across America By: T. Pratt 6-26-2008
It looks like the Steppin' Across America contest might be Steppin' on a few toes. We've learned that Cleveland preliminaries are supposed to be scheduled for Saturday, July 12th. Well that date should ring a bell for many of us who have already booked travel to Cleveland that weekend for the Gentlemen of Ballroom's (GOB) annual steppers ball. Where the story gets a little more interesting is that the GOB are listed as one of two Steppers organizations scheduled to participate in the prelims, when in actuality they have no intentions of participating. A representative of the GOB informed ChiStepper that Merry Green reached out to them by phone but never responded to the group about the possibility of working together. ------------------------------------ Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Steppin' For A Dream's Lonzo Williams Dishes On... By: T. Pratt 6-25-2008
Lonzo Williams rang to discuss a little "Steppin' For A Dream" business, so I took the opportunity to ask a few questions about the King's Dream Weekend. I heard rumblings that Lonzo might have been considering throwing in the towel on his version of the King Holiday Steppers Weekend. Nothing could have been further from the truth. In true Lonzo fashion, he addresses every question that I asked, and he didn't bite his tongue. As Lonzo would put it ... "I'm much like my brother's in the Chi, if it's on my mind, it's probably going to come out of my mouth."
Contest Talk: Is Steppin' Across America Still Happening? By: T. Pratt 6-25-2008
Doubt is begining to surface among steppers who wonder whether this event is really going to come off. ChiStepper knows that Merry Green has been actively seeking venues to host her prelims here in Chicago. We also know that should the prelims come off, they will all take place on 1 day ... there will not be weeks of prelims. Furthermore, only the top 6 Chicago and Out-of-town couples will advance to the finals. Nevertheless, the window of promotion for this event is closing fast. We are less than a week away from July, and Chicagoans still haven't heard anything. There are other variables that also cause one to question the viability of promoting an event of this magnitue in 1 month.
For instance, it is supposed to be a national contest, but to ChiStepper's knowledge, no Prelims have been planned and/or executed in any of the host out-of-town cities. Once prelims do take place, paid travel and hotel for out-of-towners will have to come off rather smoothly to make things happen by August 2nd. We know that the date of the Black Expo is not changing, so the idea of postponing the event and still benefiting from the Expo's audience is out of the question. Then you have the issue of the contestants ... many of whom will still have to pick partners, shop for clothing and prepare time to practice.
Even so, Merry Green has the confidence of the steppers community, so we'll wait and see what happens. I'm sure that the competitors will come out, even if she waits until July 28th to host her prelims. Guess we'll all have to wait and see together. ------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Classic 5
Don Vic Productions Review By: Crystal Fuller (steppinlady2) 6-24-2008
Happy Birthday Don Vic!
A rose once again emerged from the concrete as the 1920's renovated Grand Ballroom was the venue for the stepper’s set this past Saturday, June 21, 2008. Don Vic and John VA collaborated to host the party at the elegant Grand Ballroom, once known as the Cinderella Café, located at 6351 S. Cottage Grove in Chicago. Red-carpeted stairs led to the 13,000 sq. foot main room, 60-foot art deco bar, with seashell stage. The grandeur of the room was complemented by the large original Lyric Opera House chandelier and Brazilian cherry wood floor with maple accents, highlighted by the Cinderella slipper inlaid in the center of the dance floor.
Contest Talk: Orbies Contest Builds Steam By: T. Pratt 6-23-2008
The Orbies contest, which has strangely enough existed under the radar, is building a bunch of steam. ChiStepper has learned that a number of awesome couples have entered this contest, including one couple (Kirk and Sebrina White) who said that they were done competing for good. Here is a list of contestants that we have gathered from one source, but have yet verify.
Carlos (Milwaukee) & Shareda Newbern Eric Gordon & "Salsa" Tina Melendrez Kirk White & Sebrina White "Westside" Mike Bush & Alexis Carroll Phil? & Lesley Dansby Feo Duncan & Candace Hinton
If you're a contestant and we've forgotten you, drop us an email. If this contestant list holds true, the finals will be very interesting. As ChiStepper figured, the Indiana vs. Illinois idea seems to have been scraped. For years, those who lived in Indiana, especially Gary and Hammond, were welcomed as suburban Chicagoans. Great job Orbies and good luck to the contestants. ------------------------------------ Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
N'Digo Foundation Gala featuring Ledisi By: T. Pratt 6-23-2008
This Saturday, June 21st I attended N'Digo's Black Tie Foundation Gala with Sharon Bolden at the Civic Opera House located on 20 N. Wacker. The event honored a number of Chicagoans for their accomplishments, including: Eunice Johnson (Lifetime Achievement), of the Johnson Publishing empire which is worth an estimated 500 million dollars. Also, honored were advertising mogul Carol H. Williams (N'Advertising), Wanda Wells (N'Media), wife of congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. and 7th Ward Alderman, Sandra "Sandi" Jackson (N'Politics), Rev. Helen Ward Carry (N'Religion), and Marilyn Steward (N'Education). The event chair was Jesse Jackson Jr. and the MC's were N'Digo foundation president and founder, Hermene D. Hartman and Doug Banks of V-103. The event was amazing and quite inspirational to boot.
Despite the hefty price tag of $350 per ticket, a few of our steppin' family members were in the building, including Greg Richardson of the Majestic Gents, Lamont Watts (Clubsteppin.com), and Quon (accompanied by her husband Kirk). Other notables at the celebration included: radio guru Marv Dyson, and Fox News Personalities Darlene Hill and Robin Robinson. Smooth soul singer Ledisi provided the evening's entertainment, but her show was not as infectous as I've seen it on previous occasions. I waited around for her popular steppin' cuts "Alright," "Joy," or "Best Friend" and after maybe 5 songs, I hadn't heard any of them. Not to mention, she never performed any of the popular tracks from her previous albums like "Take Time." Unable to withstand any more, we decided to make an early departure and skip out on the Steppin' after party. ------------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Contest Talk: Club D'Elegance Prelims By: T. Pratt 6-20-2008
Last night one couple entered the D'Elegance contest, Feo Duncan and Candace Hinton, bringing the contest field to two couples total. The judges for the contest were: Celeste Sutton, Ty Skippy, Gary Riley, Tab Williams, Sha Johnson, and Tanya. From what ChiStepper has gathered, next week, which also happens to be the very last semi-final, will bring out the largest group of contestants. We'll see what happens. ----------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Class Review: Big Slim Steppin Network Review Review Date: June 4, 2008 Reviewer: Crystal Fuller
Lead Instructor: Cliff Reynolds (Big Slim) Lead Assistant: Jenny Bradley, Tollie Carter, Tim Alexander, Christy Taylor-Walker Class Size: 15 to 20 students
------------------------------------------------------ Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum
Celebrity Guess Who 6-18-2008
C. J. Lee is the winner with the answer: Sherri Shepherd (The View). C.J. Wins 1 ChiStepper CD, a ChiStepper Car Freshener, and a copy of the June Issue of Sister 2 Sister magazine.
Sherri replaced Star Jones on the popular morning show "The View" alongside Barbara Walters, Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, and Elisabeth Hasselbeck. For those of you who have watched Sherri on the view, she's exactly the same in person. Very witty and very kind. Sherri reminds you of one of those folks who made it big, but stayed REAL. ---------------------------------------- Send your answers to: chistepper@yahoo.com. Previous winners are NOT eligible. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
IT'S OFFICIAL: 3 Big Promoters, 1 Big Convention By: T. Pratt 6-16-2008
Update: All 3 nights will be hosted as a United Front
Following ChiStepper's "Collision Course" story, referring to the dueling conventions of the Majestic Gents vs. VIP & Dreamgirls, tempers flared, emails and message board threads ensued, and the blame game started. What the story also did however, was set the stage for discussion and subsequently create a chain of dialogue that eventually led to something much greater. Pete Frazier, the Majestic Gents CEO, phoned Christine Jones (Dreamgirls) directly with the intention of finding a solution.
DJ Sam Chatman on ClubSteppin.com By: T. Pratt 6-18-2008
DJ Sam Chatman will host a radio show on Monday nights from 7pm - 12am on the #1 internet radio station for steppers, ClubSteppin.com. Sam also gave ChiStepper the official date and time for his Tuesday night set at Club D'Elegance with DJ Raphael. The date of the first party is July 1st, and the wheels will start heating up at 8pm. ------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Soul 106.3 and the Majestic Gents World's Largest Steppers Contest Preliminary Schedule 06-17-2008
Beginners Prelims Wed. – Jul. 23, 2008 50 Yard Line 69 E. 75th St. Category: Beginners
39 and Under Prelims Wed. – Jul. 30, 2008 Mr. G's 1547 W. 87th St.
40 and Over Prelims Thur. - Jul. 31, 2008 Mr. G's
39 and Under Wed. - Aug. 6, 2008 Club D'Elegance 14202 S. Cottage Grove
40 and Over Wed. - Aug. 13, 2008 University Golf Club 23520 Crawford Ave. University Park, IL
Walkers and Trios Wed. - Aug. 20, 2008 Gental Persuasion 8959 S. Ashland --------------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
After 7 "White Party" Review Alonzo Running for Mayor of Hazel Crest By: Crystal Fuller (steppinlady2) 6-17-2008
After indulging in a delicious dinner at the new Fleming's Steakhouse and Wine Bar located downtown Chicago, I knew I needed to dance some of that food off. After 7 Production were having their monthly stepper's set this past Saturday and like so many other organizations around the county, the color was white.
Blast From the Past: "Unique" Maurice Turner Interview: B. Taylor Originally Published: 9/27/06 6-16-2008
In 2006, Chistepper.com had the privilege of interviewing some of Steppin's heaviest hitters. A number of readers hadn't caught on yet, and therefore, get to experience these blast from the past interviews for the very first time. Steppers be mindful, this interview was conducted by B. Taylor in 2006, so some of the information may have well changed since then.
Contest Talk: Club D'Elegance Prelims By: T. Pratt 6-13-2008
One couple entered the Club D'Elegance Preliminary last night, and ChiStepper did not catch their names. In order to advance to the semi-finals, a couple needs a cumulative score of 200 from the 6 judges who can each award up to 50 points a piece. This couple received somewhere in the neighborhood of 160 points, and did not advance. The judges for this contest were: Arlicia "Sha" Johson, Tabitha "Tab" Williams, Dee Dee, Donnie Davis, Celeste Sutton, & Tanya. The DJ's for the evening were Raphael and DJ Calvin. To Sunshine's credit, both the judges meeting and the contest started on time, and dancing was resumed immediately following the contestants.
While it was not a capacity crowd in the place, a number of notables came through and made for a good night of dancing. Including the judges, other who stopped through were: Andre Blackwell, Frank Whyte, Tall Rick, Royce Banks, Robin Summerrize, Patty Parham, Tatiana, Lawrence Parker, Malinda Tyson, Ty Skippy, and more. So far, only 1 couple is in this contest. Does anybody want to win the $1,000 or what? ---------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
DJ Raphael and the Legendary Sam Chatman Team Up By: T. Pratt 6-13-2008
Two of my absolute favorite DJ's will team up for a Tuesday night set at Club D'Elegance in mid-July. With both Raphael and Sam Chatman working together, you are guaranteed to get the best of new and ole skool Steppin' music. ChiStepper will keep you posted on the in and outs of this new weekly steppers set. ------------------------------------ Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Can Bruce Bring Club D'Elegance Back? By: T. Pratt 6-13-2008
Firing your best people + annoucing boldly that you plan to forego the steppers community + hiring security that in many ways disrespect the regular patrons who made your place popular to begin with = AN EMPTY CLUB! Gerald Scott, who I once admired, Hilary Clintoned (a new phrase for showing your true colors) both myself and the steppers community. If there is a prototype for how one person can single handedly destroy the atmosphere of one of the hottest steppin' clubs in the country, Gerald created it.
Nowadays however, even though Gerald is still one of the owners, Bruce Martin is the general manager. Bruce manged the 50 Yard Line for many years, and the 50 has maintained its reputation as one of the premier Steppin' clubs since long before I even knew what Steppin' was. Bruce is aware of the challenges that Club D'Elegance has experiened regaining it's luster, and he aims to bring the club back to prominence. Bruce told ChiStepper.com, "Tell the steppers that they are welcome back and that if they have any problems at all to come and see me. I want them to know that Club D'Elegance is their home and that they can feel comfortable here." When asked about Gerald's influence, Bruce says, "Gerald is an owner, but they allow me to run the club now with no interference."
So there you have it steppers ... Club D'Elegance is back ... and if you're mistreated, holla at Bruce! ------------------------------ Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
R. Kelly Being Sued Over Steppin' By: T. Pratt 6-12-2008
Patty Parham made ChiStepper message board members aware of this article, and I thought I should pass it on to the rest of the world. Henry Vaughn a.k.a Uncle Henry Love is sueing R. Kelly over allegedly teaching him Steppin' moves during R. Kelly's flirtation with Steppin' around 2001. I found this article quite interesting considering that I was there personally when Andre Blackwell choreographed both the "Step In the Name of Love" and "Happy People" videos. All close to the situation know that R. Kelly never even made an attempt to learn how to Step for REAL. I was standing right next to Dre and Kels, when he said, teach Cat (referring to model Cat Wilson) how to step, and I'm going to do me." Maybe Uncle Henry Love is referreing to introducing R. Kelly to the prospect of persuing Steppin' as a viable outlet to galvanize his music career. Who knows, but the link to the Steve Patterson, Chicago Sun Times article can be found by clicking HERE! ------------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Detroit's Mistalocks Open Steppers Studio By: T. Pratt 06-12-2008
Buford "Mistalocks" Collins opened a lot of eyes following the White party in Detroit, when he opened his facility for an after party. Two popular steppers called me up and said, "Terrance, Mistalocks' dance studio is amazing. It has mirrors on the walls, a DJ booth, and a beautiful large wood dance floor."
Detroit Weekend Review By: Cynthia Robinson 6-12-2008
Cynthia's Detroit Weekend Review ended up in ChiStepper's email bulk folder, and henceforth is late in coming. It gives an awesome perspective on the Detroit dance community however, and is worth the reading. Here goes:
Last weekend I traveled to Detroit, Michigan to spend time with friends and hang out in the dance community. Over the years I've met many great people and I enjoy traveling for steppin' and other dance styles. My first stop was to Mistalocks recently relocated studio in Ferndale, MI. It was my first time visiting the new studio and I was thouroughly impressed. The new location features a wooden dance floor (720 sq feet), large studio mirrors and a great sound system. I can see why the students are drawn to it.
-------------------------------------------- Leave feedback in our stepper forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Contest Talk: WLSC Detroit Prelim Results By: T. Pratt 6-11-2008
It looks like this years World's Largest Steppers Competition will feature a host of new talent. The Out-of-Town category is already stacking up, and depending on the level of competition this year, winning this category might actually mean something. Looking at the list of competitors, I can say that Detroit has a good chance of reclaiming both the Out-of-Town and Original throne. Here are the finalists:
Original Category Candace Hinton and Feodor (Feo) Duncan
Out-of-Town Category
Drew Alexander II and Sherry Gordon
Darryl Brown and Angela Ireland
Ann Dobson-Hunter and Kammal Smith
James Pacely and Keesha Anderson ------------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Exclusive Interview: Charnice Simmons By: T. Pratt 6-10-2008
Two years ago I sat in my basement and chatted with Charnice about Steppin'. I was seconds away from getting her to do an interview for ChiStepper.com and at the very last minute she changed her mind. The Charnice I met then would not teach more than 1 or 2 students at a time, and she gauged her decision on everything from how they carried themselves, to whether they were open to learning her style of teaching. In short, Charnice was not big on teaching ... especially on a mass scale. Fast forward two years and Ms. Simmons has a Steppin' organization, she promotes events on occasion, she's doing an interview (finally), and she's flying all over the country sharing her knowledge with up and coming steppers. Check out this exclusive to learn more about Charnice's transition, her thoughts on teaching, dancing, and a whole more.
Michelle Stanton (Chicago) is the Winner. Her answer was: Rosie Perez. Michelle wins Steppers CD Mix and a copy of the June Issue of Sister 2 Sister Magazine.
Rosie Perez won me over in the movie "White Men Can't Jump." I've always loved that strong latino accent and that cute smile. It didn't hurt that she was also reported as a dear friend of my all time favorite rapper Tupac Shakur. Rosie and I were sporting matching orthopedic boots when I met her, the only difference was that she was scheduled to do a hand dance number the next day. That obviously didn't happen. Aside from that, I learned that Rosie is an staunch evironmentalist and she talked at length about how important it was to protect the world that we live in. So to my steppers, that means that you can't throw your McDonald's bags out of your car onto the street when you finish your Big Mac. ---------------------------- Send your answers to: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Detroit Whitens Up!
By: Tracey Bivens (Imasteppa) 6-09-2008
This weekend was one of the most anticipated early summer events for the city of Detroit. For once, our city had something else to talk about other than our political personnel and our financial woes. The White Party was the RIGHT party to be at June 5 - 8. It was a four day event that satisfied the “step buds” for every stepper around the nation.
Detroit Weekend Review By: Cynthia Robinson 6-12-2008
Cynthia's Detroit Weekend Review ended up in ChiStepper's email bulk folder, and henceforth is late in coming. It gives an awesome perspective on the Detroit dance community however, is worth the reading. Here goes:
Last weekend I traveled to Detroit, Michigan to spend time with friends and hang out in the dance community. Over the years I've met many great people and I enjoy traveling for steppin' and other dance styles. My first stop was to Mistalocks recently relocated studio in Ferndale, MI. It was my first time visiting the new studio and I was thouroughly impressed. The new location features a wooden dance floor (720 sq feet), large studio mirrors and a great sound system. I can see why the students are drawn to it.
May 30th, the last Friday of the month, was birthday Friday at the studio. Mistalocks' students had the opportunity to come out and celebrate their special day and interact with each other and members of the community. Fellow Chistepper.com cohort Tracey "Imastepper" Bivens came through and although we've talked, we hadn't met in person. With no doubt, Tracey's years of steppin experience shows in her footwork and style. I had the honor of selecting the night's musical lineup which gave me a chance to share some of my favorites including, Just Like Heaven by Hassanah, Looking for Your Love by Adrianna Evans, and Don't Go by Deitrick Hadden (courtesy of Shorty Smooth's latest Steppin CD compulation).
Afternearly 10 hours of dancing day into night on Friday, I had to wear flats on Saturday so my feet could reccuperate in time for the Big Hat Gentlemen's Classic Steppers Set Saturday night at the Southfield Christian and Seminary Center. The BHG received support from many groups and instructors,like Friends United, Mistalocks, Detroit Dance Network, Upscale Dance Productions, Angie and Darryl, Rodney Mack, Sir Charles and SL&G, Unique Steppin Styles and Profiles, Shawn James from Smooth Silhouettes of Atlanta, and others. Apologies if I missed you or your organization.
The BHG, Bashiri, Phil, Walter, Ron, Frank, Calvin, and James could be seen on the dance floor throughout the night dancing with a variety of ladies. I spoke with Phil who explained the BHG have been together for 3 years and refer to themselves as the "Classy Dancing Gentlemen". Their location reminded me of the greatly missed ARJs in Milwaukee. There was seating on both sides of the linear dance floor with bar and stage at opposite ends of the hall. Dancers were kept moving by musical host Mike to Mike. He moved me with Lionel Richie's Do it To me, which I'll be sure to add to my steppin' favorites.
I stepped out to the hall to cool off and had the pleasure of meeting Jeff Clark of the increasingly popular Detroit Dance Network and ILoveSteppin.com. Jeff is also the creator of the popular I Love Steppin t-shirts which I have seen worn by steppers throughout the community.
Jeff was kind enough to take me Sunday to visit Friends United steppin class at Fire Water II Bar & Grill. Sherry, Kelly, Tanya, Mike and David were teaching all levels of the dance. I had a great time dancing with their students and eating good food. After Friends United's class, Jeff and I headed over to a free workshop courtesy of ILoveSteppin.com, and Mistalocks at Sips Bar & Grill. During these economically sensitive times, a free class is a good way to introduce yourself to the dance, practice your skills, or just meet other steppers. Unfortunately, I was on the tail end of my dance filled and foot aching weekend and wasn't much assistance to my patient partner until I retrieved my flats and had a drink. I was then able to work better with him on new spins and turns.
After the workshop it was time for Calm Sundays at Sips. To my suprise the Calm Sunday hostess was none other than DJ Wanda Mack - the creator of the popular Bad Girl Hustle (as well as many others). A calm Sunday was just what I needed after my marathon dancing weekend. -------------------------------------------- Leave feedback in our stepper forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Contest Talk: Club D'Elegance's 1st Prelim By: T. Pratt 6-06-2008
Club D'Elegance held its first preliminary last night. One couple entered the first prelim: James Eubanks & Tineka Wiley. The judges for the contest were: Arlicia "Sha" Johnson; Cynthia Woodcocks; Terrell Tyson; Dee Dee; Sharon Bolden; and Magic Mike. Shine Entertainment wants to encourage instructors to enter their students into the contest and assures the participants that they won't be victims of politics and favoritism. In her own words, "This is not a popularity contest." Finally, the D'Elegance contest prelims will start 2 hours later at 9pm, but the contest will start on time. Contestants should arrive early to ensure time for signup. ------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Add your two cents: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Dreamgirls' Christine Jones Responds By: T. Pratt 6-05-2008
ChiStepper.com received a call from Dreamgirls promoter Christine Jones about the Thanksgiving Weekend article. Christine usually lets things go, but this time she had some things to say. She started in, "Terrance, your article was good, but it's missing some things." I say, "What is it missing Christine?" Christine then breaks it down for the ChiStepper readers from her perspective.
Thanksgiving Collision Course: Dreamgirls/VIP vs. The Majestic Gents By: T. Pratt 6-05-2008
There's an elephant in the room, and it ain't Fat Joe's new hip hop CD. Three of Chicago's biggest promoters (well, 2 of them are together) are hosting major conventions Thanksgiving Weekend. Because of the relationship that I have with all 3 of them, I was reluctant to write anything about this very obvious situation, but this is the Home For REAL Steppers, and that's what we do. So here is the deal ...
The World's Largest Steppers Contest and Soul 106.3 By: T. Pratt 6-05-2008
The 18th Annual World's Largest Steppers Contest initial plugger came out yesterday. One significant change from years past is that Soul 106.3 is the new Radio Sponsor. For years V-103 was the major contest sponsor, but their support hasn't been there for some time. Congrats to the Gents for picking up a new Radio sponsor and kudos to Soul 106.3 for aligning themselves, yet again, with the greatest dance form on earth. ------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Steppin' Greg Prepares to Unlace His Shoes By: T. Pratt 6-03-2008
ChiStepper.com caught with steppin' great, Steppin' Greg, who informed us that he is nearing the end of his promoting days. Steppin' Greg, who lost a leg to diabetes a few years back, says its time to call it quits. While Greg informed us that he'll come out to party on occasion, the rigor involved with promoting a major set is taking its toll on this legendary Steppin' figure. Sporting a wheelchair at the VIP productions set, Greg stated, "I can walk if I want to, but this [chair] is better for my health."
Greg plans to go out with a bang, and ChiStepper.com is going to keep you posted on the happenings of this monumental occasion. For those of you who missed Greg in his prime, you'll never truly understand why he is revered by the Steppin' community. The good thing about Greg however, is that he was competitor, and some of his most amazing performances have been captured on video for future generations to both study and enjoy.
In a conversation with Ice Ray recently, Ray said, "Terrance, I've been dancing for 35 years ... it's not my time anymore. I come out to watch you all now." There will come a day when all of us have to sit back and enjoy the talent of generations to come ... and when that day comes, we can only hope that the steppin community can speak as highly of our talent as they can about Steppin' Gregs. ----------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppin forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Contest Talk: Haywood Will Defend His Walkers Crown By: T. Pratt 6-03-2008
ChiStepper.com caught up with Adrian Haywood recently and he informed us that he plans to defend his 2007 Walkers championship in the World's Largest Steppers Competition. Haywood, who placed second in the "40 and over" Category, also plans to compete for another piece of the grand prize in this category as well. ------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
$57,000 Up For Grabs This Summer By: T. Pratt 6-04-2008
It's starting to feel like the summer of 2006 again, with contests popping up all over the place. Between the WLSC ($15,000), Baton Rouge ($8,500 for Steppers), Steppin Across America ($30,000), Orbies ($2,500), and Club D'Elegance ($1,000) contests, $57,000 is up for grabs this summer. Once the Steppin' Across America and WLSC preliminaries start, it is likely that we'll have preliminaries nearly every day of the week, throughout the month of June and July.
The Steppin' Across America contest has sparked a buzz of conversation in the Steppin' community. Many who thought that interest in a major competition had subsided, are now met with the reality that enough contest money will bring even the most reclusive steppers back out of retirement. Only 1 couple thus far (from my knowledge), Tony Dow and Darlinda Russell (1996), can say that they won a $10,000 grand prize. Now, 3 additional couples will be able to share that unique distinction. I'm getting excited already and things are sure to get far more interesting. ----------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Contest Talk: Merry Green's $30,000 Contest By: T. Pratt 6-03-2008
News travels fast ... so much so that I almost chose not to report anything about this new contest. I wanted a little more information on the contest before I wrote anything. After all, ChiStepper.com brought this contest to everyone's attention some time ago. Nevertheless, here is what we all know. The Steppin' Across America contest will give away 3 winner take all prizes of $10,000 a piece in the categories of 1. Original, 2. Freestyle and 3. Trio. We also know that Merry Green will fly the finalists in from all over the country and provide lodging for them.
More on VIP Production's Mega Set By: T. Pratt 6-03-2008
A party of this magnitude deserves more than one mention. For the record, I didn't get to Preston and Bill G's party until 12pm. What I missed, and henceforth didn't report, was that DJ's Smooth Ron, Tra Nicole, and LaVelle C also worked the 1's and 2's with Mellow Khris. By the time I arrived, Mellow Khris was the star of the show, but I definitely want to show love to the other DJ's as well ... I would never want to deny anyone the acknowledgement of participating in an event of this magnitude. DJ LaVelle C told ChiStepper.com that this might have very well been the second largest, if not the largest event that he has ever been apart of. LaVelle tried to sell me on the concept that line dancing it "hot," and you're my homey LaVelle, but it's not going to happen.
Another tidbit of information that the steppers wrote in and shared with me, is that my estimate of 3,000 people at this party was light at best. I've heard from at least 3 sources that the party had at least 3,500 in attendence at it's peak. ChiStepper talked with Preston Adams yesterday, and Preston reported that he was very pleased with the outcome of the party and that he was appreciative of all the support that VIP received. --------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Dancing With The Stars: Niecy Nash & T. Pratt By: T. Pratt 6-03-2008
Armand Johnson is the "Celebrity Guess Who" winner and he will receive a ChiStepper Steppers CD and a copy of the June Issue of Sister 2 Sister magazine for his correct answer: Niecy Nash of Reno 911 and Clean House (Style Network).
Niecy Nash is who she is ... a down-to-earth, funny, vibrant and extremely witty young lady. She and I danced and talked the whole night and she gave Steppin' one of the most honest attempts of any celebrity that I've met. She really tried to pick it up. I will say this though ... her freestyle following game was pretty nice. The girl has rhythm.
We kicked it with Niecy until the wee hours of the morning, and you can actually read the full story in the June issue of Sister 2 Sister magazine ... which is on Newstands now! To see more pics of T. Pratt and Niecy, including my big kiss on the cheek, CLICK HERE! ------------------------------------ Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
VIP Production's Mega Stepper Set By: T. Pratt 6-02-2008
On Saturday, May 31st, I headed out to the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Tinley Park, IL for VIP Production's steppers set, labeled "The Main Event 2." When I walked in the door, my first thought was, "Wow! There are a lot of people in here." I see Christine Jones (Dreamgirls) walking out the door as I was walking in, and she said, "T., there are a lot of people in here." Then I bump into Classic Steppers productions Lil' Punkin', and she says, "Preston has a lot of people in here."
Contest Talk: 3 Preliminaries, 1 Week By: T. Pratt 6-02-2008
This week might turn out to be busy for both Steppers and competitors. Club D'Elegance is hosting its first preliminary this Thursday, June 5th and across town at the Taste, the Classic Steppers will be hosting their first event since relocating from Mr. G's. On Friday, Orbies will have it's first contest preliminary, and the Majestic Gents will host the first World's Largest Steppers Contest preliminary in Detroit, as the prelude to Rockin' Rodney Mack's big White party.
Entering the contest early has always been a way to ensure yourself a spot, but with so many prelims, it seems that contestants might have to stagger their participation. Either way, ChiStepper plans to give you the contest rundown. --------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Dawud Shareef explains his style of dance By: T. Pratt 5-30-2008
I'm in Hyde Park, walking from my office to another stepper, Ameenah Rashid's office which is directly across the street. On my way, I see Dawud Shareef and Lura Satterfield standing in Starbucks. Dawud, who I met as David some years back, has always been a kind dude ... so I make an about face to drop in and say hello. Upon greeting Dawud, he tells me that he reads ChiStepper.com quite often and that he met Crystal at an old skool concert event. For the record, Dawud and Lura have been performing with the Chi Lites for years.
Pics From the Gents Convention By: Crystal Fuller (Steppinlady2) 5-30-2008
Yesterday ChiStepper.com failed to post Crytal's photo album that accompanied her 4 day trip to Ft. Lauderdale with the Majestic Gents. Check out the photos from this magnificent event and you'll even catch Crystal and 1st Lady of Steppin', Linda Frazier (among others) in bathing suits. For the full photo album CLICK HERE. --------------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
D. C. Hand Dancers Appear on "So You Think You Can Dance" By: T. Pratt 5-30-2008
By mere coincidence I turn on "So You Think You Can Dance" last night, and I see popular D. C. Hand Dancers Markus Smith and Deonna Ball on the show. I watched Markus and Deonna perform a few months back in Detroit at the Urban Wheel Awards, so I was excited to see them on such a grand scale. For the record, Markus and Deonna are two of the absolute sweetest people that you'll ever meet, but they are fierce on the dance floor. They have entered and won numerous swing dance competitions throughout the country, many of which, from my limited understanding, had never had African American champions.
Their time to perform on the show comes and they do an awesome job. They made it to the choreography round, and then they were eliminated. I wanted them to make it so bad, because their success vicariously represented what I believed it would take for Chicago Steppers to advance at that level. Either way however, they came out winners. Markus and Deonna exposed the entire nation to their style of dancing, and for this purpose alone, the entire D. C. Hand Dance community should be extremely proud of them. ChiStepper.com and I'm sure many from Chicago Steppin' dance community would like to congratulate this awesome young duo! ---------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Pete Frazier, Fish, Mike (Majestic Gents)
Majestic Gents 9th Annual Memorial Day Steppers Convention By: Crystal Fuller (steppinlady2) 5-29-2008
Crystal goes to the Sunshine State
I had the pleasure of taking a much needed vacation to Fort Lauderdale, Florida with the Majestic Gents for their 9th Annual Memorial Day Steppers Convention weekend. Juggling a very hectic professional and personal life, this was just what the doctor ordered. We stayed at the beautiful Crowne Plaza Hotel at Sawgrass Mills. The hotel features great amenities that included a heated outdoor pool and jacuzzi, exercise room, gift shop, Peyton's Place restaurant, tavern and best of all, free gararge parking for our rental car.
ChiStepper.com chatted with Club D'Elegance general manager Bruce Martin yesterday, and we have the final D'Elegance contest schedule. The contest will run for 6 weeks, starting on Thursday, June 5th at 7pm. The remaining preliminary dates will take place every Thursday in June (12th, 19th, 26th). The semi-finals will take place on July 3rd and the finals will take place on July 10th.
The prize money for the contest is $1,000 (winner take all). DJ Raphael and DJ Calvin will be your musical hosts and Sunshine and Uncle Rail will be your MC's for the evening. Couples must be dressed to impress, and the judging system will be fair ... judges will have to show their scores after each performance. ----------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum
Orbies Contest Details By: T. Pratt 5-28-2008
Jam Entertainment presents a steppers contest that pits Illinois vs. Indiana. There will be $2,500 in prize money and the breakdown of cash prizes is listed below.
1st Place - $1500 2nd Place - $600 3rd Place - $400
Semi Final dates will be June, 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th. The finals will take place on July 11th. Jimmy Jam will be your host for the evening and Mellow Khris will work the 1's and 2's. Orbies is located at: 142 Rimback, in Hammond, Indiana. The contest will start at 10pm sharp and athletic apparel is not appropriate. Contact Jimmy Jam at: 773.398.0379 for more details. ------------------------------- Add your two cents: chistepper@yahoo.com. Leave feedback in our steppers forum at: www.chistepper.com/forum.
Keith Hubbard
Blast From the Past Interview Series Exclusive Interview: Keith Hubbard Interview: B. Taylor Original Publish Date: September 2006 5-27-2008 In 2006, Chistepper.com had the privilege of interviewing some of Steppin's heaviest hitters. A number of readers hadn't caught on yet, and therefore, get to experience these blast from the past interviews for the very first time. Steppers be mindful, this interview was conducted by B. Taylor in 2006, so some of the information may have well changed since then.
ChiStepper & Dre and Company Host Pre WLSC Party By: T. Pratt 5-22-2008
It's official ... ChiStepper.com and Dre and Company team up to host the "Official Pre World's Largest Steppers Contest Party." The party will take place at Mr. G's and DJ Mellow Khris and Detroit's Rockin' Rodney Mack will be on the 1's and 2's. Our MC's for the evening will be Majestic Gents CEO Pete Frazier and Sister 2 Sister Magazine CEO, Jamie Foster Brown! This will be part 2 of the ChiStepper Meet & Greet and Dre and Company's "Shades of Blue." Sponsorships, Birthday Parties, Reserved Tables, Product tables, and customized packages available. For more information, contact T. P
