ABOUT

The Chicago Steppers Labor Of Love Weekend is the brainchild of L.A. Chase and Chuck Martin out of Chicago. Jakki Dace Williams, Kevin Nevels, Walter Lane out of Orlando and Iary Israel round out this group of collaborators who now identify as the organization FAB 5 + 1 Entertainment LLC.

In a dance community which lately have been focused more towards schematics and competition we as a collective want to focus more on bringing back the LOVE for each other which is sorely needed.

Therefore we all agreed to title our event THE CHICAGO STEPPERS LABOR OF LOVE WEEKEND since it will be held during the 2026 Labor Day holiday weekend of September 3-6.

The event will take place in the Chicago suburban city of Rosemont Illinois at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center just minutes from O’Hare International AirPort and of course it will be another “You Can’t Beat Free” affair with the guaranteed 2 FREE All Access Bands per room reservation.

Come on out and join us as we Bop, Walk and Step in a labor of love frame of mind

Yours truly,

Fab 5 + 1 Entertainment LLC

Chuck Martin

Residing on the Westside of Chicago (60644), I have dedicated my career to personal shopping and styling, specializing in menswear for the discerning gentleman.

Throughout my professional journey, I have had the privilege of collaborating with two of the leading retailers in the United States: Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s in Chicago.

My initial exposure to Steppin occurred in the 1980s when I would collect my sister from establishments such as Cockney Pride, Rivers Edge, and Keymans Club on weekends. Occasionally, I would venture inside and be captivated by the ambiance. Subsequently, in the late 1990s, I recognized the necessity of becoming an integral part of this dynamic movement. The allure of the dance and music was undeniable.

In 2002, I embarked on the establishment of one of the pioneering Steppers Clubs, which provided an exclusive platform for Steppers in Maywood, Illinois, at Mariella’s Banquet Hall. This endeavor was aptly named “Most Wanted.”

Within this environment, I fully embraced my passion for fashion and honed my expertise in the art of men’s attire. I attained mastery in the realm of permanent fashion for men, which subsequently earned me recognition at the Annual NAACP 49th Image Awards in Pasadena, California, where I was honored as the most distinguished gentleman of the weekend.

Presently, I am delighted to announce that my skills have facilitated my collaboration with a distinguished group of gentlemen and a remarkable woman to establish one of the most innovative Steppers Clubs in the Midwest. This esteemed organization is known as Fab5 Plus1, and we are honored to present to you the Labor of Love Monumental Weekend.

Labor Day Weekend 2026.

This event will seamlessly blend the exhilarating experience of Steppin with the epitome of style, elegance, and fashion.

Sent from Vette’s iPhone 16Pro

Jakki Dace

Dancing has been an integral part of my life from an early age, and it has shaped who I am today.

I grew up dancing the 2-step with my parents, with my mother being a professional Mambo dancer who toured across the country before she met my father. Her passion for dance was infectious, and it didn't take long for me to catch the rhythm of movement and music that runs in our family. As a teenager, I transitioned into the bop, soaking in the cultural influence of the time, and by the early 90s, I found my true calling in stepping. More than three decades later, I’m still dancing strong. In fact, I’m celebrating my 35th year in the stepping community, a journey that has been both rewarding and exhilarating.

Throughout my stepping career, I’ve been fortunate enough to win or place in the prestigious World’s Largest Steppers Contests four times, which remains one of my proudest accomplishments. Stepping has not only been a form of personal expression for me but also a way to connect with the wider community, celebrate the tradition, and push my own limits. In addition to competing, I’ve had the honor of serving as a judge for the past 10 years, where I’m able to contribute to the dance culture that’s given me so much over the years. It's humbling to offer my expertise and help other dancers refine their craft.

Beyond my achievements as a competitor and judge, I was also privileged to be a member of the Majestic Gents Steppers organization, where I was honored as a "sweetheart" and received a Lifetime Achievement Award for Steppin in 2019. This recognition, coupled with my years of dedication, has been a testament to my unwavering commitment to the art form. Dancing is more than just a passion; it's a part of who I am, and I look forward to continuing to share my love for the craft for years to come

Walter Lane

Walter C. Lane is the President, CEO, and Principal Instructor of Florida Steppers International, Inc., where his lifelong passion for dance meets his commitment to community service and education.

As a teenager, Walter developed a deep appreciation for dance while moving to the beats in his father’s nightclubs, where rhythm and energy filled the air. In 1995, while visiting Detroit, Michigan, he discovered and fell in love with the art of Steppin. However, it wasn’t until 2009 that he took his first formal Steppin class—a moment that would shape his journey for years to come. From that very first lesson, Walter knew that Steppin was not only a dance but a lifelong pursuit of growth, discipline, and connection. Through continuous dedication, he refined his skills and committed himself to mastering the craft and sharing it with others.

In 2011, Walter founded Florida Steppers International (FSI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses social events as a vehicle to raise funds for community service projects and programs. Drawing on more than 30 years of military and human resources instructional experience, he began teaching Steppin classes after participating in numerous workshops and training sessions across the country. Today, FSI offers private lessons, group classes, couples and marriage ministries, workshops, dance demonstrations, and community events throughout Central Florida.

FSI’s broader vision extends beyond dance. Under Walter’s leadership, the organization seeks to be recognized as a leading advocate in the fight against childhood obesity, empowering youth to lead healthier lives through physical activity, balanced nutrition, and education. Through Steppin and community engagement, Walter continues to inspire others to move—not just on the dance floor, but toward a better, healthier future.

Walter Lane

Walter C. Lane is the President, CEO, and Principal Instructor of Florida Steppers International, Inc., where his lifelong passion for dance meets his commitment to community service and education.

As a teenager, Walter developed a deep appreciation for dance while moving to the beats in his father’s nightclubs, where rhythm and energy filled the air. In 1995, while visiting Detroit, Michigan, he discovered and fell in love with the art of Steppin. However, it wasn’t until 2009 that he took his first formal Steppin class—a moment that would shape his journey for years to come. From that very first lesson, Walter knew that Steppin was not only a dance but a lifelong pursuit of growth, discipline, and connection. Through continuous dedication, he refined his skills and committed himself to mastering the craft and sharing it with others.

In 2011, Walter founded Florida Steppers International (FSI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses social events as a vehicle to raise funds for community service projects and programs. Drawing on more than 30 years of military and human resources instructional experience, he began teaching Steppin classes after participating in numerous workshops and training sessions across the country. Today, FSI offers private lessons, group classes, couples and marriage ministries, workshops, dance demonstrations, and community events throughout Central Florida.

FSI’s broader vision extends beyond dance. Under Walter’s leadership, the organization seeks to be recognized as a leading advocate in the fight against childhood obesity, empowering youth to lead healthier lives through physical activity, balanced nutrition, and education. Through Steppin and community engagement, Walter continues to inspire others to move—not just on the dance floor, but toward a better, healthier future.

Iary Israel

Born and raised in the Englewood section of Chicago, the community had a profound impact on shaping values and work ethic, setting the foundation for a future in dance and event promotion.

At the age of 19, the decision was made to leave Chicago and pursue higher education at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. Later, a transfer was made to the Edwardsville campus in the St. Louis metropolitan area, where academic and personal growth took place. It was during this time that exposure to the art form of Chicago Stepping sparked a deep interest, eventually leading to a career in the dance world. In 2000, entry into the Chicago Stepping community was marked by the founding of Word of Mouth Entertainment, with the role of CEO assumed alongside Delores Mitchell, who served as President. Together, the duo built a platform dedicated to the growth and celebration of Steppin’ through classes, events, and promotions.

Under Word of Mouth Entertainment, a series of weekly and monthly Steppin' classes were launched, complemented by annual events that brought together dancers from across the nation. These efforts culminated in the creation of STEPAGANZA, a celebration designed to honor individuals and organizations that had dedicated at least 30 years to the Chicago Stepping community. STEPAGANZA became a cornerstone event, bridging generations of dancers and ensuring the continued vitality of Steppin’ as a living tradition.

The journey also took the team far beyond Chicago’s borders, with extensive travel throughout the southern United States to teach, mentor, and assist other promoters in organizing their own events. One of the most notable contributions was the introduction of the “You Can’t Beat Free” business model, implemented at StepaUnion, the Chicago Steppers Homecoming Week, and the upcoming Chicago Steppers Labor of Love Weekend. This model has played a key role in making Steppin' more accessible while preserving the culture and fostering its growth for future generations.

Kevin Nevels

Kevin Nevels, also known as Thee Ambassador, is a multifaceted entertainer, DJ, and entrepreneur, with deep roots in Chicago's vibrant stepping community.

Born on the West Side and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Kevin graduated from Edward F. Dunne Elementary in 1978 and Percy L. Julian High School in 1982. He is also an OECP-certified Crane Operating Engineer with Local 150. His journey into stepping began in his youth, with his first experiences at the Markham Skating Rink, Percy L. Julian High School sock hops, Mendel High School dances, and basement parties. As an adult, he continued to immerse himself in the Chicago stepping scene at legendary venues such as the Copher Box II (117th & Halsted), Ascot Hotel, East of Ryan with DJ Sam Chatman, and The Nimbus and Chic Ricks.

Coming from a musically driven family as the youngest of seven children, Kevin has always had a deep passion for music. Mentored by DJ Dan, he began his career as a radio personality on WzonRadio.com and became a professional DJ in 2012. Kevin is the CEO of Ambassador Entertainment LLC and co-founder of WzonRadio.com, alongside DJ Dan and DJ Shermaxx. He is also the creative producer of Step Therapy, a TV show dedicated to the stepping community, working with hosts like Mz. Hollywood Elle, Por Tri, and DJ Supreme. Additionally, Kevin has served as a road manager and booking agent for artists such as Michon Young and Rockwell Hallman.

As a radio personality, Kevin hosts a show every Sunday from Noon to 2 pm CST on both WzonRadio.com and FlyyRadio.com. He is the main DJ for several key events, including Charles Cross' 59th Street Harbor, Truth on the Beach (Peyton Wilborn, Rob Fletcher), and LadyLisa Events (Lisa Luckett) in Gary, Indiana. For the past 26 years, he has proudly hosted the largest Aquarius Superbowl birthday party in Chicago for steppers.

The title “AMBASSADOR KEVIN NEVELS” came to Kevin while watching Queen Elizabeth host a meeting with the British Ambassador of Germany, an experience that inspired him to adopt the name. Today, as DJ Ambassador Kevin Nevels, he continues to serve as a musical engineer, blending passion, experience, and dedication to the stepping community and the world of entertainment.

LA Chase

Born and raised on the West Side of Chicago, a city known for its energy, creativity, and cultural influence, a lifelong love for music and dance began early and has continued to inspire every chapter of life.

From an early age, dance was more than just movement; it was a way of life. Under the guidance of a mother who shared her passion for rhythm, roller skating began at the age of three, followed by learning the Jitterbug at four. By eight, the Chicago 2 Bop was added to the repertoire, laying the foundation for a lifelong connection to the city’s signature dance forms. At thirteen, the catalog expanded to include Chicago Bopping and Slow Bop, and by twenty-one, mastery of Chicago Walking and Stepping had been achieved. Over the years, countless nights were spent dancing at many of Chicago’s most celebrated venues, forming lasting friendships within a community that became like a second family.

The passion for dance has led to several remarkable achievements. In 2014, a first-place win in the “Walking” category of the World’s Largest Steppers Contest in Chicago marked a major milestone in a lifelong pursuit of excellence. In 2015, recognition came once again with induction into the Stepaganza Lifetime Achievement Award Class in St. Louis, honoring decades of dedication to preserving and advancing the art of Steppin’. These accomplishments represent not only personal success but also a deep commitment to keeping the authentic spirit of Chicago’s dance culture alive. Today, that same dedication continues through teaching and mentoring dancers of all ages, ensuring that the beauty, structure, and history of Bopping, Walking, and Stepping endure for generations to come.

Beyond the dance floor, professional success has flourished in other arenas as well. After meeting the love of his life in 1992 and relocating to California in 1993, a successful general contracting business was established, allowing the freedom to travel and work across the country while maintaining ties to the Chicago Stepping community. In 2018, the entrepreneurial journey expanded further with the opening of Chase Windy City BBQ Restaurant, a thriving business that reflects both passion and perseverance. Today, these achievements in business and dance continue to complement one another, culminating in a new role as a member of the promotion team for the upcoming 2026 Chicago Steppers Labor of Love Weekend, an event dedicated to celebrating the artistry, legacy, and community spirit of Chicago Steppin’.

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