Supporting Steppin’
In Vegas (And Your City)
We are always talking about people, especially Steppers, needing to stop hating on one another for how they step, teach, or what they have or don't have going for them in "Stepping Community". We know this is not just the case in Vegas, but when you live in a relatively small city like Vegas/Henderson and you just about know everyone who steps, it really doesn't make sense to not support the growth of Steppin' in your City. Or to be negative about folks trying to do something for the Steppin' Community, instead of falling all over those who come to your city and try to make a fast buck for themselves and leave without positively contributing to anything in the community.
Everyone knows that we need to pull together and start working together, but it seems like there is so much animosity and greediness that people always seem to find an excuse or to point fingers, so they can find a way not to do what's right and best for the Steppin' Community. As an example, for a long time steppers in Vegas were saying we don’t have anywhere nice to go to step on the weekend, or a place for more mature folks to dance without all the hip-hop and young folks interrupting our steppin' groove. Well, when a nice place does open, if it's not free admission or if the drinks are more than $3, the Steppers will not continue to support the place. Part of the reason may be that you can go to the casino's here, pretend you are gambling at a slot machine and get free drinks, hear a live band and even dance in a lounge for free. Of course, the music may not be something you can Step to, but so what, it's free? There are only a few venues around town these days that will give steppers more than a few hours at the most to Step. One is the Espresso Culture and Cuisine on Eastern Ave., and the Brass Lounge on 4th and Las Vegas Blvd... Hopefully, they will both get enough support to continue. If we as a Steppin’ Community want to have nice places to go and step we need to support the establishments and folks who live in, support and give back to our community and cities.
All of the events that are given for our steppin' community in Las Vegas should be supported; because you know when we get together with good steppin' music we really have a wonderful time! If you are not able to go to all of the events and venues because of the costs involved, then alternate each week or event just to show your support.
Now for all of us who love to go to everyone's steppin' sets, it is our hope that the Steppin promoters and groups would coordinate with one another and maybe give one or two big Steppin events together. Like folks are doing in Chicago and in Atlanta. WOW WOULDN'T THAT BE A BLAST! This is truly how to keep Steppin' alive and growing.
A word to the nightclub and restaurant owners, if you want folks to patronize your establishments, your food, floor, air conditioning and sound system have to be good, and the drinks reasonably priced! We know steppers drink a lot of water, but if your food is off the hook and the drinks are good you can count on the folks to support the kitchen and the bar. We got the music and the dancers, just give us the rest! So Think About It and Let’s Make This Happen.
By Brenda Miller & Sheila Johnson-Ponder
Tags: Supporting Steppin’ In Vegas And Your City
