Interview with Irmasue Zapor, Steve Sandalis's Fan Club President!

1. How long have you been a fan of Steve Sandalis?

I first met Steve at the San Diego RT convention when he was introduced as The Topaz Man. That was in 1993 and I've been a fan ever since.

2. What brought you to Steve in the first place?

I think the first impact Steve had on me was when I saw the "Do not disturb - I'm with the Topaz Man" doorhangers that were hung on the doorknobs at the San Diego Convention. The photo was so sexy that I just couldn't help myself. I was lucky because I was sharing a room with my husband. I know some of the other women had to fight over who would get to keep the hanger. The maids also didn't clean some rooms because of that publicity stunt. It made quite an impact, one way or another.

3. How did you become Steve's Fan Club President?

I was in Steve's Fan Club for a few years and had come to know Sharon Mayeaux and Steve. I had written a few articles for the newsletter and I was compiling a list of Steve's book covers. At the Baton Rouge RT in 1996, Sharon asked me to consider taking over the Fan Club. She didn't feel she could devote the time needed to Steve and the club anymore. Steve and I talked and that is how I became the President.

4. Is there one particular time that you have had with Steve that you will never forget?

I have many good memories with Steve, all special in their own right. The first time I spent "time" with Steve was at a fan club gathering he had in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. That is one of his favorite places and he wanted to share it with us. The motto for that weekend was "Don't feed the bears!!!". Steve kept drumming that into our heads. I spent the weekend with him in Sacramento when he was appearing at an antique car show. I feel that was really when we got to know each other. We had a chance to really talk between autograph signings. He was a judge in a bikini contest and I got to sit at the table with him. That was eye-opening!!

But, I guess the most special thing for me was being a part of his wedding. It was a very special weekend.

5. If there was one thing you wanted to tell the people that visit this web site about Steve, what would it be?

Steve is a caring and generous person. Everyone who has met him is amazed at how "real" he is. No facades here - he really is that nice and wonderful! The fans who have been dedicated to him through the years is proof of that. He hasn't forgotten the wonderful support and encouragement he has received and it is very dear to him. He knows he is lucky and doesn't take anything for granted.