by Diana Huey (1998)

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What should I say about the person who inspired me to write my first ever parody? (Note: it was to the tune of "Beverly Hillbillies;" I deny any other knowledge of its existence).

Steve is an amazing man. He can carry on a number of coherent, intelligent conversations at once- and at any time of day or night (usually late, like 3:00 a.m.). He can talk techie with the best of them, and he's forgotten more about computers than I'll ever know.

Quick to laugh, his sense of humor is actively engaged at all times. Given the opportunity, Steve could swap funny ha-ha stories for hours. He's also been known to spontaneously doodle on the back of restaurant napkins (usually only the paper napkins).

He has a beautiful family, and he's a devoted father to the three children he & Susan have brought into the world. And he's been blessed enough to share the last ten years with his spouse, Susan- an amazingly beautiful woman with her own incredible strengths. Of their children, Luke is 9, Renee is 6, and Josh is a stubborn 3 going on thirteen. Watching Steve interact with his children is like witnessing the unfolding of one of the universe's great mysteries.

And then, there's Steve's music. First of all, Steve can just about outplay anybody I know. Words I've used to describe him include: powerhouse, dynamo, intense, and focused. He has an excellent repertoire (years of playing bar gigs), and a great talent for songwriting. The filk community has benefited greatly from songs like "Cold Butcher," "Journey's Done," "To Touch a Star" and "I Just Love Those Old B Movies." These songs are just a tiny fraction of what he's accomplished.

Did I mention he's a harmony junkie? Not only is he great to listen to, but something magical happens when Steve is singing with other people. Participation & interaction just go hand-in-hand when Steve's in the circle. And don't worry if you don't know the chords: he'll walk you through them & help you catch on.

One of the many things I admire about Steve is that he's not afraid to lay it all out in the open. He takes great joy in sharing, and has an uncanny knack for encouraging others to make the leap, too. He's really tricky that way (Grin!).

Forget about safety nets & get ready to soar; Steve's set to take you on a journey you won't soon forget.