FREE HONORED BY HOMETOWN

by

Janet Nesler

The following article appeared in the The Scioto Voice Newspaper

August 2008

Receiving many worldwide awards never brought tears to the eyes of singer/songwriter Steve Free, it brought gratitude and appreciation, but never tears.  That changed on July 4th in Tracy Park when Steve was given surprise recognition by the City of Portsmouth.  After Steve sang his song Down by The River with the Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra, Mayor James Kalb took the stage and presented him with a proclamation from the city of Portsmouth and the key to the city. 

Mayor Kalb read each line of the recognition to Steve which included,
 Whereas, “Steve Free and his band play a unique blend of original songs designed to explore the rich heritage of his Native American and Appalachian roots;

 Whereas, “Steve Free was recently awarded the prestigious Governor’s Award for the Arts in 2008 by Governor Ted Strickland;

 Whereas, “Our community is fortunate to have Steve as a citizen because of the profound effect his music has on listeners;”

 Whereas, “I, James D. Kalb, Mayor of the City of Portsmouth, do hereby recognize Steve Free and thank him for inspiring and touching the lives of so many people through his music.” Mayor Kalb then presented Steve with the key to the city.

With tears in his eyes Steve replied, “This is the greatest honor any singer/songwriter can have, to be recognized in such a way by their hometown.” 

Having written many songs about his hometown he represents it well by being given the 2008 Governors Award as the top singer/songwriter in the State of Ohio.  He is an OAC “Ohio Artist On Tour”.  His educational program is popular at schools throughout Ohio and the Midwest.  Teaching children Native American ways and the meaning of chants and drumbeats and to be aware of their environment with his song “When The Trees Are All Gone”.