Category 3 Hurricance Gustav, with winds at 85mph, approaches the Big Easy as Chris and his BF get out of harm's way

Time: 12:00am
Date: Monday, Sept 1st, 2008
Category: 3
Winds: 115mph
Current Location: 171 miles from New Orleans
What to expect: Down powerline, down trees, low lying areas flooding

QueerGam talks to Chris Herrera who got out of New Orleans earlier this evening. He and his boyfriend, Jeff, drove all day to a safer place -- gay-friendly Austin in Texas.

Ambrose Aban:
Gustav, traveling at 80mph, will be hitting coastal towns in a few hours and will be crushing New Orleans with winds over 115/mph by 8am tomorrow morning. We are seeing a mass exodus from the gulf coast. Current location: 171 miles from New Orleans. CNN says at least 95% of the people of New Orleans have been evacuated. Chris, thank you so much for calling today. The satellite is showing that Gustav is approaching New Orleans with 115mph at 16 miles per hour. It will be hitting coastal towns at sunrise. It is a Category 3 Hurricance as of 11pm tonight. Water level (at midnight) is 2ft higher. New Orleans, as we know, is sitting below sea level. I am so glad you and Jeff got out of there. How is the guesthouse in Austin? How long are you guys going to be there? Everything is ok? How was the drive to Austin?

The storm had earlier killed more than 80 people when it swept through the Caribbean below.
















Chris Herrera:
Everything is ok, Ambrose. We just got here a few hours ago. We didn't have to, you know. Wehope everyone is making it safely somewhere. We decided to drive to Austin instead of staying with his sister in Atlanta. We are staying at a guesthouse tonight and tomorrow night. Surprisingly nice and clean. Also $38 a night, double bed with TV.

Ambrose Aban:
I hate that this is happening to you and New Orleans again...

Chris Herrera:
Jeff and I are very tired but we are safe here. Jeff is sleeping. We'll grab a quick dinner later. Our stuff are still in the cars. We got to Austin around 6pm today. We are visiting with Jeff's good friends who are living in Austin day after tomorrow for a few days. We are ok for now Ambrose. And yes, we all have learned a lot from Katrina. People care about their lives.

Ambrose Aban:
I am so happy to know you are in Austin. What did you bring with you?

Chris Herrera:
Our laptops are very important to us. Mine was the first thing I packed. I am not sure what Jeff brought but I know he packed important documents, our work stuff, bills, I packed three suit cases with work clothes, shoes, and curtains, comforters, sheets, pillowcases, photo frames, etc. Jeff stuffed his SUV with our electronics -- TV, microwave, coffeemaker, etc. We drove here all day. We tried to pack as many things as we can -- things that mean a lot to us like presents, gitfs from friends...I packed all the basic stuff in case we have to find a new place to live. Everything we carried with us are things that we need everyday.Unfortunately we have to leave behind our bed, our whole kitchen, sofas, dining table, carpets, and our lovely furniture -- these are the things we can buy again later, they mean nothing to us now.

Ambrose Aban:
I am so sorry to hear that, Chris. I hope your place is dry when you return, especially your kitchen. I know you guys love your kitchen so much. I wish I am there right now with you and Jeff. When are you guys going home? In a few days?

Chris Herrea:
Yeah it would be so much fun having you here. We still have each other to go through this and we feel blessed to have each other. Some people have to go through this on their own. Jeff and I love our jobs in New Orleans and we hope nothing bad like Katrina will happen when we return. Gustav is going to land around afternoon tomorrow. I heard from the radio -- the city is almost empty, more than 2 million people have evacuated.I am not sure when we will return. Hopefully in a few days. I hope our house is still there when we return.

Ambrose Aban:
I feel better knowing you and Jeff are safe. You guys are more than welcomed to San Francisco. Please enjoy yourself while you are in Austin. There is nothing you can do about your house in New Orleans. And call me whenever. I love you Chris. Take care you guys.

Chris Herrera:
Love you. Will call you tomorrow. Good night.

QUEERGASM: Coming Out#links

QUEERGASM: Coming Out#links

Gustav is now a Category 4 demon, terrorizing sothern decadence...

People in New Orleans must leave now. They must learn from Katrina. It is time to leave! Our hearts go to the families of those who have to leave their homes today and tomorrow.

Getting nearer and nearer to New Orleans...Sunday 12.54pm.

Sarah Palin brings maturity and elegance to a very demanding role in American politics

By QueerGam bloggers

John McCain and Sarah Palin. Can she bring it on?





















Ambrose Aban:
Ok guys, what do you think about Sarah Palin? Can she bring it on? Is she the "change and hope" Obama has been talking about but have yet to show us? Choosing a washington veteran in Joe Biden is hardly a change, right?. It's just a good choice. At least Hillary is a woman, if he had chosen her. A smart and a popular political figure and an international icon. But this hockey mom is not only a self-styled but also a sophisticated lady and a political reformer -- that's a change. No?

Phil Spencer:
She is absolutely delightful. She is definitely a lesser known prospect whom had not been the subject of intense speculation. At 44, Palin is younger than Obama and, like McCain, she calls herself a maverick.

Chris Goodridge:
I really like her a lot. I can see her in the White House. As first-term governor she is credited with reforms in her state. McCain is right. Maybe she is the change who can best help him shake up Washington and make it start working again for the people who are counting on them.

Ambrose Aban:
I think Palin is exactly who McCain needs. She’s exactly who this country needs to help us fight the same old Washington politics. Whatever that is.

Jefferey Johnson:
Palin has a scant record on LGBT rights but is considered a moderate.

Phil Spencer:
Really? Didn't know that.

Ambrose Aban:
Is that so? Obviously we have to dig more about her.

Jefferey Johnson:
In one of his last acts as governor, Palin’s predecessor Frank Murkowski called the legislature into special session in 2006 to approve a same-sex couples benefits package to comply with a court order declaring the lack of health and pension benefits violated the Alaska constitution. But rather than approving the plan the House and Senate passed legislation prohibiting the Alaska Commissioner of Administration for implementing the court ruling.

Phil Spencer:
Both houses then voted to endorse a move putting the issue to a statewide plebiscite, asking voters if a constitutional amendment barring gay benefits should go on the 2008 ballot.

Chris Goodridge:
Shortly before the January 1, 2007 deadline newly elected governor Palin, vetoed the bill that would have blocked the state from giving the benefits and the plan kicked in at the first of the year. But Palin endorsed the referendum on the issue and she has publicly voiced her opposition to same-sex marriage.

Ambrose Aban:
Nevertheless she was hailed by gay Republicans. I think she can help Sen. McCain win this election by appealing to independent and young voters.

Phil Spencer:
I think so, too. Palin is an inclusive Republican who will help Sen. McCain appeal to gay and lesbian voters. A good pick. No one can have enough experience for the job.


Jeffery Johnson:
Will she energize McCain’s campaign and energize conservatives?

Ambrose Aban:
I think she is already doing it very well. Even HRC's Joe Solmonese said America may not know much about Sarah Palin, "but based on what our community has seen of her, we know enough", Solmonese said.


Chris Goodridge:
Sarah Palin not only supported the 1998 Alaska constitutional amendment banning marriage equality but, in her less than two years as Governor, even expressed the extreme position of supporting stripping away domestic partner benefits for state workers. When you can’t even support giving our community the rights to health insurance and pension benefits, it’s a frightening window into where she stands on equality.

Phil Spencer:
Palin opposes abortion and is a member of the National Rifle Association. Her task didn’t seem any easier in the general election, but she handily beat Tony Knowles, a popular Democrat who had already served two terms as governor. I read that her previous political experience consisted of terms as Wasilla’s mayor and councilwoman and a stint as head of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission.

Ambrose Aban:
According to CNN, Palin also comes with her own ethics complaint. She has come under the scrutiny of an investigation by the Republican-controlled legislature into the possibility that she ordered the dismissal of Alaska’s public safety commissioner because he would not fire her former brother-in-law as a state trooper.

Watch out for Lance Bass and Toni Braxton on Dancing With The Stars!

Yes it is confirmed...Lance Bass will be partnering Lacey Schwimmer and Toni Braxton with Edyta Slivinska's hubby, Alec Mazo. We heard Toni, recently diagnosed with a heart disease, has no problems in handling the flirtatious cha cha, sensual rumba, elegance of waltz, fast jive and quick steps, intense paso doble, and the cheeky-catch-me-if-you-can samba, and mambo. She asked Alec to give her his best choreography. But Toni and Alec have to beat Lance and Lacey.




The celebrity line-up for the new series of the Dancing with the Stars has been announced. Among the contestants are a television legend, a Grammy-winner, two Olympic Gold medallists and the show's oldest and youngest competitors to date.

Past champions, Cheryl Burke, Julianne Hough, Alec Mazo and Mark Ballas will be on the show. Cheryl who is now dating that British hunk "300" leading man, Gerard Butler, is paired with...we will let you know later!




Making their ballroom dancing debuts on the new show are American television legend and star of US drama 'All My Children' Susan Lucci, six times Grammy Award winner Toni Braxton and Olympic Gold medallists Maurice Greene and Misty May-Treanor.

The line-up also includes 82-year-old Oscar winning actress Cloris Leachman ('The Last Picture Show'), 'Hannah Montana' star Cody Linley (the youngest contestant) and recently retired American football player and Superbowl Champion Warren Sapp.

Actress and TV presenter Brooke Burke, (with Derek Hough) celebrity chef Rocco Dispirito, (with Karina Smirnoff) actress, model and reality TV star Kim Kardashian, actor Ted McGinley and comedian Jeffrey Ross complete the line-up.

As with Lance Bass, ABC has shown an admirable commitment to representing gay people on many of their most popular shows, a GLAAD rep told E! News in a statement.

"We hope they continue to build on that in the future."

Dancing with the Stars seventh season will premiere with a special two-hour performance episode on Monday, September 22 at 8PM ET/PT.

QUEERGASM: It's inexcusable and unacceptable, NBC! It is never tooooo late to tell his story

QUEERGASM: It's inexcusable and unacceptable, NBC! It is never tooooo late to tell his story

It's inexcusable and unacceptable, NBC!

You've hurt our feelings, whoever you are in NBC.

"We regret that we missed the opportunity to tell Matthew Mitcham's story. We apologize for this unintentional omission." -Gary Zenkel, NBC.

No need to apologize. It's too late for it. But it is never too late to tell his story on NBC.

Matthew Mitcham is the 20yr Australian diver, an openly gay Olympian who won gold in the 10m Platform in Beijing recently. He beat the Chinese! Really, we are offended, humiliated, and very insulted by your carelessness and by your act of thoughtlessness. Tonight, we will watch CNN when Barack Obama is on at 8pm CT. Do you think you deserve us tonight?

Wait!!! Here comes Lance Bass dancing on DWTS. Queers are waiting with battered breath.

We were told that Lance was even better than the female pros! His line, his turns, are just as gorgeous as Cheryl's and his hip movements are just as mouthwatering and sexy as the two-time champ. Below, Lance, practising with a female pro.

US OPEN hotties: Novak, Marat, Thomas...who do you think is the hottest of them all? Your serve!

#1 Novak Djokovic -- he is queer's favorite server
It's hard to believe it's been a year since Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic became New York's favorite U.S. Open celebrity and Roger Federer--well, Roger Federer stayed a celebrity! But it has and now queers gearing up for another fortnight of fanaticism as the world's eyes turn from Beijing to Flushing, Queens. I am recovering from a three-hour tennis game on Monday night. I played with my tennis buddies, Jeremy and Jackson, at Dolores Park, and am energized by the way Djokovic served and finished off his first round today in Flushing, Queens. You go boy.

#2 Thomas Haas - the sexiest of them all, fierce and fearless on the court
















So stay on top of what's happening on the courts (and in the stands, and behind the scenes) at the New York sporting event of the year by adding QueerGam to your favorites.

#3 Marat Safin -- gorgeous to a fault, won first round

QUEERGASM: Mitcham sparks gay pride. Exclusive! AfterElton obtains NBC messages about Matthew Mitcham coverage

QUEERGASM: Mitcham sparks gay pride. Exclusive! AfterElton obtains NBC messages about Matthew Mitcham coverage

QUEERGASM: Mitcham sparks gay pride. Exclusive! AfterElton obtains NBC messages about Matthew Mitcham coverage

QUEERGASM: Mitcham sparks gay pride. Exclusive! AfterElton obtains NBC messages about Matthew Mitcham coverage

Mitcham sparks gay pride. Exclusive! AfterElton obtains NBC messages about Matthew Mitcham coverage

Matthew Mitcham wins gold for gay-kind, sparks gay pride around the world.











By Michael Jensen
[Previously published on AfterElton]

Thanks to a mole at NBC Sports, AfterElton.com was able to obtain this exclusive transcript of an IM conversation between an NBC reporter trying to convince his boss that Matthew Mitcham's upset gold medal victory in the Men's 10 meter platform was worth coverage by the network.

NBCLACKEY: Hey, Boss! Got a great story for tonight’s Oly coverage!
NBCHONCHO: Is it something else about Phelps! Woo hoo!
NBCLACKEY: Um, no. He left Beijing already.
NBCHONCHO: Oh. :-( What then?

NBCLACKEY: On Matthew Mitcham’s last dive during the Men’s 10 M platform—

NBCHONCHO: Men’s what?
NBCLACKEY: 10 M platform. You know, diving.
NBCHONCHO: Oh. Don’t really like that.
NBCLACKEY: Really? Why?
NBCHONCHO: Speedos
NBCLACKEY: ???
NBCHONCHO: Speedos are too revealing.
NBCLACKEY: I see. You must hate women’s beach volleyball then.
NBCHONCHO: ???
NBCLACKEY: Nevermind.
NBCHONCHO: With speedos u see all of a guy’s junk. Nasty.

NBCHONCHO: And gay. Besides 10 m isn’t that high. Not impressed. My ten year old can do that.

NBCLACKEY: Um, that’s meters, not feet.
NBCHONCHO: Oh, yeah. Still what is that? Fifteen feet?
NBCLACKEY: Actually, its more than double that. 32 feet.
NBCHONCHO: Stupid European measurements.

NBCLACKEY: Anyway, on his last dive Mitcham posted highest score ever and came from behind to beat Zhou Luxin for the gold!

NBCHONCHO: Is he American?
NBCLACKEY No, Australian.

NBCHONCHO: Really? I thought they were just good skiers. And weightlifters like Schzerneger. Schwazaneger…Swarznerge… you know, The Terminator, the Governor of California

NBCLACKEY: Not Austrian. AUSTRALIAN. Down Under.


NBCHONCHO: Ah. Too bad. Wish he were American. Too bad Phelps doesn’t dive. I wonder if he could. Anybody ever ask?

NBCLACKEY: Don't think so. Anyway, it’s still a great story. Mitcham kept the Chinese men from winning all eight gold medals in diving. Nobody thought he could do it! It was a huge upset.

NBCHONCHO: I like a story about someone knocking off those Chinese. They won too many damned golds.

NBCLACKEY: Plus the kid has a great personal story. He burnt out on diving in 2006 and quit the sport. He’s struggled with anxiety and depression, but then his coach talked him into coming back last year and he overcame all that age nineteen. And now he beat the Chinese juggernaut with the most amazing dive ever in Olympic history. It was so exicting! And there’s more!

NBCLACKEY: Hello? You still there?
NBCLACKEY: ???

NBCHONCHO: Sorry. Somebody sent me this hilarious clip of a cat that eats with a fork! OMFG, it’s so hilarious! Wish we could show this!

NBCLACKEY: Um, okay. So do you want to hear the rest of Mitcham’s story?

NBCHONCHO: Who?
NBCLACKEY: The diver! Who upset the Chinese!
NBCHONCHO: Oh, yeah. Sure.

NBCLACKEY: Here is the best part. He actually came out as gay about six months ago. And he was the only out gay male at the Games. It's so impressive!

NBCHONCHO: I thought all the divers were gay. They all seem a little fruity. Not like water polo players!


NBCLACKEY: Not only did he just come out, but his performance is the greatest ever by an out gay man at the Olympics. He made history! Then after he was awarded the gold medal, he climbed into the stands to kiss his mom and partner who only got to be there ‘cuz a corporation gave them a grant. It’s a great heartwarming, historical story. It’s great TV. Folks will eat it up!

NBCHONCHO: We can’t show THAT! Families will be watching.
NBCLACKEY ???
NBCHONCHO: We don’t do sex at the Olympics. Who do you think we are -- Fox?
NBCLACKEY: Sex? Who said anything about sex?
NBCHONCHO: You said he kisses his partner.
NBCLACKEY: That’s not sex!

NBCHONCHO: Close enough. Besides, we can’t do a story like that. We don’t ever discuss an athlete’s sexuality.


NBCLACKEY: You’re kidding, right? We show straight folks' boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands and wives all the time. And lots of kissing. We did a whole piece on one female athlete’s fiancée and he’s not even in the Olympics. How is that not discussing sexuality?

NBCHONCHO: Well, that’s straight people so it’s not sex. Gay is, well, GAY. Say, are you gay or something?

NBCLACKEY: What? You’ve met my wife and two kids. Why would you ask that?
NBCHONCHO: You just seem sort of obsessed with this.

NBCLACKEY: I’m a reporter and this is news. Pretty damn big news. And you said to tell you about any heartwarming stories. It’s what you pay me to do. Remember?

NBCHONCHO: Fine. You’re not gay. But is it really historical? There have been other gay Olympic athletes. Haven’t there?

NBCLACKEY: Yes, but they weren’t out. Mitcham won after he came out. It’s like if the first black diver won gold.

NBCHONCHO: Totally not the same thing.
NBCLACKEY: Sure seems like it to me.

NBCHONCHO: Look, this just isn’t right for NBC. Stick it up on the website. That’s good enough.


NBCLACKEY: Really? This was a huge upset. We show almost all the upsets.And we love these stories of triumph over adversity.

NBCHONCHO: I’ll pass. You realize there are 10,000 athletes here, right? We can't tell EVERY single one's story.

NBCLACKEY: But this isn't just any story! This is special.

NBCHONCHO: Eh. Not that special. But tell ya what, I think we should do a follow up on that love triangle between those French and Italian athletes. And what about Phelps? Why don’t we do something about his favorite X-Box games? Or how he eats 12,000 calories a day. Americans will love that. Oh, and something else about those female volleyball players! Can’t get enough of them! ;-)

NBCLACKEY: Sigh.

Hillary:We need leaders once again who can tap into that special blend of American confidence and optimism. Did her words get in the way?

[Primetime Presidential Speech: Hillary Rodham Clinton]

Chelsea Clinton introducing her mom, Hillary Clinton, tonight.

















"I am here tonight as a proud mother. As a proud Democrat. As a proud Senator from New York. As a proud American. And as a proud supporter of Barack Obama" -- Hillary Clinton

QueerGam bloggers watched the much anticipated speech from home tonight.

Hillary gave us a shout out in the first few minutes of her speech. Thank you!
Very powerful and very courageous. Clinton said: "That is our duty, to build that bright future, and to teach our children that in America there is no chasm too deep, no barrier too great and no ceiling too high for all who work hard, never back down, always keep going, have faith in God, in our country, and in each other".

Hillary had a big task to finish -- to tell her supporters to support Barack Obama. Dressed in her bright tangerine pantsuits, she walked onto the stage, kissed her daughter Chelsea, waved at the crowd some of them had tears in their eyes. They screamed her name and waved back enthusiastically with so much admiration and love. Her job tonight: to promote her political future and unify her party. Clinton did here best. But was her best good enough to convince her supporters to let her go, move on, and vote for Obama?

She called on her "sisters" to support Obama. Did her words stand in her way? Did she deliver tonight? Did she mention gay rights?

Hillary, acknowledging her supporters -- calling 18 million of them "sisterhood of the traveling pantsuits"


Ambrose Aban:
"If you want a taste of freedom, keep going...we are Americans, we are not big on losing and giving up...we don't have a moment to lose or a vote to spare. Think about your children on our election day. We got to ensure the choice in this election honors the people who have fought for us..." Looking great in her bright tangerine pantsuit set against the blue background of the DNC stage tonight, Hillary started off by asking her supporters to support Obama. That was what Obama needed. That was a big speech. She mentioned Obama at least 10 ten times, proving to everyone that she is the bigger one, mature one and professional one. She also mentioned gay righs once (and for us once is good enough) This is a bad night for Hillary haters and for the press who have been treating her unfairly now and during the primary process. She addressed all the concerns we have. Clearly she wants to move on. She is kind of saying, "I am not your therapist, I am a Democrat...so let's move on...".

Chris Goodridge:
There are so many undertones in her speech tonight tho quite spectacular in my opinion. But did she deliver? Yes and no. Yes because she brought it down to the wire tonight. No because democrats left the convention center, scratching their heads, asking why the hell is she not the presidential candidate? Twice she had it -- first the dem super delagates picked Obama (and helped him win the nomination), and then she was not even on Obama's shortlist for VP. That has to hurt her supporters and her fundraising arm. In my opinion, she did not deliver 100%. And Obama is left in a shaky situation. McCain's people are ready to pound on her speech just because she did not mention Obama's readiness. I agree with her when she said that we've got to ensure that the choice we make in this election honors the sacrifices of all who came before us, and will fill the lives of our children with possibility and hope. I thought that was so powerful and genuine.

Bill Clinton,hanging on to his wife's every word

















George Tyler:
Yes she did. "Let's keep moving." She didn't mention her husband. She is kind of reminding us that she is an independent woman. She gave a presidential speech. That was a speech made for presidents. Not for herself or Joe Biden. She rocked it. She nailed it. She covered it. Did she deliver: Nope. Because people love her even more and not Obama.

Jefferey Johnson:
She was perfect. Tho she never address the ability of Obama taking the job as the manager of war and the economy, it is still a bad night for her haters. She also mentioned Michelle Obama, calling her a great woman, she even praised McCain where it is due, she called him as a good friend and a celebrated war hero, she mentioned everything that was needed to be mentioned. And...because of that, people are even more angry because she is not going to be the next president of America. She basically called on her supporters to get over it, keep going until Obama is in the White House. Did she deliver? Yes, in a way, she did what she came to do.

Obama watching Hillary delivering her speech on TV


















Phil Spencer:
She did once mentioned "As I recall, President Clinton and the Democrats did it before" as CNN's camera zoomed on Bill's face (listening to her every word intensely). For a moment I thought I saw a tear in Bill's eyes. She did great for herself, but more importantly she did great for Obama and for America tonight. She wrapped up day-two of the convention in style, electrifying everyone around the world. She was a class act tonight. Hillary Rodham Clinton, our favorite girl. She delivered 50/50.

Chris Goodridge:
Hillary, as expected, rocked it all night long at the DNC in Denver tonight. What do you think oif the introduction by her daughter, Chelsea? What a sisterhood of the traveling pantsuits! It was so unselfish, so genuine, and so sincere. She was such a generous act, calling for unity, one party, winning the election. Women's rights, unity and the economy -- she covered them all tonight -- in ghe greatest of style. This is not a good night to be a republican.

Jefferey Johnson:
She was amazing, Chelsea was stunning, and Bill as always, looking suave and handsome in the crowd. What a family. What a night. This is the woman who delivers when she needs to. She did that tonight. It was perfect. Hillary was perfect. Checked. She challenged her supporters to vote for Obama. Checked. She reminded the people to think of their children on election day. Checked.

Phil Spencer:
What a loving mother and a courageous leader she is. And he is. Chelaea is a headturner, has certainly grown into a lovely young woman. People had tears in their eyes during her speech. She was moving the crowd. A class act. She was presidential tonight. She is evidence that women had come so far. She didn't stumble on a line or something, she was just so perfect. She was in a league of her own. There's never a loser who is more generous than the winner.

George Tyler:
The entire convention center shook vigorously when she appeared from the backdrop and walked to the podium, waving at her supporters, taking her time, acknowledging the crowd, pointing to them as cameras focusing on her and Bill who was watching proudly. People are genuinely and truly truly moved and touched by Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Chris Goodridge:
You just saw it yourself. You know it was a presidential speech. We saw in Hillary what our potential future could be. We could envision that we can have jobs and we are respected on a global level. She could have taken us there. She delivered yes - for herself, not Obama.
















Ambrose Aban:
The moment Chelsea mentioned her as "my mom", I knew the night was meant just for Hillary Clinton. I knew she was going to work the crowd -- no one can emulate (not even Bill) and can steal her thunders. As she has said tonight, progress is indeed a never an easy thing, we need to elect a president that can compete in global economy, we need a president who understands the global economy, who can build a green economy. She said profoundly, the genius of America understands the needs of America.

We are watching Hillary's primetime speech/s response at this time on CNN and will be back with more from Chris, Jefferey, Phil and George, my dearest friends and bloggers.

Material Girl's unconventional look at McCain

[Material Girl]
McCain wins, Madonna remains unchanged, Obama loses voters...day by day.

Madonna, below, a veteran spoiler in American and Vatican politics


Ambrose Aban:
Earlier, it was the Pope. Now, McCain. Yep, the Material Girl is at it again. Nope, she is not saying good things about them. It's her rights -- the media gaurantees her that, at least. She is comparing McCain to Hitler. Many Americans (many of them her fans) are outraged by her unpatriotic concert videos. But count on Madonna to court controversy to promote her new "Sticky and Sweet" concert tour.

Chris Goodridge:
Talk about predictable. I think her time is up. She will always be the Madonna that we adore but we are no longer in love with her. We no longer care all that much anymore. She is known for using images and body language to upset the Catholic Church, etc. On her last tour, she upset Jews with her use of Kabbalah images. Now she thinks she is helping Obama by taking aim at McCain. Wrong move, mama. Madonna is doing more harm than good to Obama and the ongoing DNC in Denver.

Ambrose Aban:
I saw the clips. McCain's image is in a video (for the aptly named song "Get Stupid") that shows him, Hitler and Mugabe juxtaposed with shots of global warming and environmental and social destruction. When the song ends, more peaceful images of John Lennon, Al Gore, Mahatma Gandhi and Barack Obama are shown.

Jefferey Johnson:
It's a vulgar attack. Whether we love Obama more than McCain or not, John McCain is not Hitler. Unlike Obama, McCain has devoted his life to the cause of freedom and the fight against tyranny.

Ambrose Aban:
I like what McCain's camp said about Madonna's videos: "it's not surprising that Barack Obama and his fellow celebrities stick together".

Phil Spencer:
Yeah, those darn celebrities! lol Madonna has made a fool of America again. Here we are writing about her stupid tour. Darn, she's good.



Ambrose Aban:
What do you think? Is Madonna right? Wrong? Will she ever shut up?

Chris Goodridge:
This is why we love her. She always hits the nail squarely on the head. Someday she will do the same for Obama. She will rock his world with images of men and women falling off the World Trade Center in flame. One of McCain's fans posted this: Can't the Brits create a chair at a university in slutology, at least it would keep her and her mouth off the streets.

Ambrose Aban:
You see, with Madonna, it is always Catholic paraphenalia, sex, Kabbalah, etc. etc.

George Tyler:
Isn't she busy, divorcing her gorgeous hubby and fucking A-Rod at the same time? Madonna should have just stuck to her act. She is the best in showbiz. Why McCain? Do something more important, go fuck husbands or go adopt more children.
Madonna is what happens when you leave syphilis, the clap and crabs untreated!

Chris Goodridge:
I like Obama. I will not vote for him, not because of him, but because of the media's unfair treatment of McCain and Hillary. But comparing McCain to Hitler goes beyond the pale. McCain proudly served his country. He just is not the man to lead it.

Jefferey Johnson:
Obama cannot lead this country, also. At least McCain has the experience. Again, I am a democrat, a proud democrat, but what they did to Hillary is wrong. I am voting for McCain. No, don't you dare call me a traitor. I hate my party right now because of the way the superdelegates and the leaders of the party have been treating Hillary and Bill. And the media...

Phil Spencer:
I'd rather see Madonna rocking the world and not John McCain. They live in two different worlds. He is rocking the world. She has rhythm; he has the blues.
To queers, McCain wins. Madonna loses, Obama gets the blues.

George Tyler:
The bitter primary battle is far from over. Will they fall tonight? Or will they unite as one? Will we see their reluctance and hesitance? Will Hillary's supporters help Obama? I don't think so. And it has a lot to do with Madonna and the press (and Oprah) -- who have been very biased and divisive. First, they did not play fair with Hillary during the primary season, now they don't play fair with McCain. People are tired of that dirty, sleazy game the media is playing. Coming from Madonna, it is understandable. She is Madonna. All she cares about is herself. She is the material girl. She wouldn't be called that for nothing.

Jefferey Johnson:
But that is cheap and distasteful. She should pay for what she did -- and by that we mean, the voters should vote for McCain and elect him as the next president. Even at 50, the queen of pop just can't stop courting controversy.

Phil Spencer:
Yeah I saw that on TV and I thought that was tacky. And I didn't like her outfits this time. Tacky-looking. She used to be so good -- half-naked, half-crazy, half-dancing, half-walking, half-fucking on stage. She used to be so good. Not in Cardiff.

Ambrose Aban:
Madonna's middle name is controversy. But I think she has gone just a little too far this time. I think she is hurting Obama and the DNC in Denver. Fans of McCain are outraged. Bad move. As it is, we are learning that angry Hillary supporters are voting for McCain because their girl was mistreated by Obama (and the democrats) and misrepresented by the media during the primary process. And the fact that she was not even on Obama's shortlist. People are very very angry. McCain is winning this game.

Phil Spencer:
It is very un-American of Madonna. Great show. But stupid mistake comparing McCain to Hitler. Obviously she wants to be on the front page again.

Jefferey Johnson:
The rest of the show had the usual Madonna fixtures: sequins, fishnets, and bondage-style outfits drawn from the 3,500 items of clothing reportedly whipped together by 36 designers specifically for the tour. Dancers sauntered across stage in top hats and tail coats, and Madonna tried her hand at break-dancing and pole-dancing. Great, great show. She should have just doing that and no more...

What we have learned:
Madonna's comment is truly divisive, offensive, rude and totally un-American.
Obama and fellow democrats have not say anything about the comment athough they know it is wrong.
Supporters are angry at Obama for not depending McCain.

What we have learned from the concert:
Some 40,000 fans — many in pink cowboy hats and boas — were treated to a heavy metal version of "Borderline," while "La Isla Bonita" served as backdrop for a flamenco routine. The show, billed as a musical mishmash of "gangsta pimp," Romanian folk, rave, and dance — was an homage to Madonna's continuous reinventions over the past three decades. She took a playful take on her variegated career, mocking dancers dressed as her previous incarnations — including the "Material Girl" and "Blonde Ambition" — before they sank into the stage to the tune of "She's Not Me." Madonna finished off the concert with her thumping "Give it 2 Me" from her new urban-inspired album, "Hard Candy." If the world's top-selling female recording artist is still writhing, shaking and shimmying with the best of them, her personal life has recently been unsettled. Earlier this summer her brother Christopher Ciccone published a gossipy memoir, and she has faced speculation about her relationship with New York Yankee slugger Alex Rodriquez and rumors that her marriage to British filmmaker Guy Ritchie is on the rocks — which she hotly denies.

Change! What Change?

Obama's misguided notion that "marriage is only between one man and one woman" is NOT change that million of us queers can believe in.

So why should queers vote for Obama if he is not doing his bit to help them? Why should LGBT voters vote for him if he is not willing to improve the quality of their lives? The saddest part is knowing that Obama will not create change. It is no surprise that many queers in this country are saying that voting for McCain (whom they think is the more honest enemy) is better than voting for Obama who keeps saying he is a change and hope agent for straight people. When it comes to same-sex marriage, Obama is worse than McCain. Coming from McCain, it is understandable. And queers don't expect much from McCain to support gay marriage. McCain has never promised gay people change and hope. But, and at least, with McCain and his team, they have clearly stated their case. They have not given us high hopes. They have not lifted us up with promises of change and hope.

We thought Obama was different. We thought he would be the one to create change and to give us hope. Obama's change is no change at all. In fact his message of hope and change is not only insulting but also humiliating.

What we have learned:
More democrats are going to vote for McCain. The polls are 50/50. Should have been favoring Obama with all the ads, the money, the endorsements and the media attention (and the media bias).
They are bitter because Hillary was not treated fairly by the media during the primary process. Their mission is revenge.
Obama is too naive and too greedy -- he is desperate to be the president and his wife is desperate to be the first lady. They didn't consider Hillary to be the VP, knowing she is the best out there and knowing he could learn a lot from her. If Obama is a real democrat, he should have given Hillary the nomination because she is better than all of them to lead this country.
To more than 20 million supporters Obama is very inexperienced, too young, and too naive -- trying to change the economy, healthcare, tax cuts, foreign policies. Supporters now realize that Obama can never bring back the jobs and improve the economy...and he is planning to leave Iraq alone (knowing you cannot just walk out on Iraq), he is no better than McCain.
People feel betrayed with Obama and they believe in McCain. If their lives depend on it, they will vote for McCain. Not Obama.
Even Obama's own running mate Joe Biden (who must have regretted saying it being a hypocrite he is) has said it very clearly on national TV -- "Obama is not ready to be the next president"

Is America Ready to dance with Lance Bass? Are you?

Randy Harrison and his on-screen lover, Gale Harold, below

Ambrose Aban:
Are you ready for Lance Bass? Queers around the world are asking to bring it on. One of the male professionals on DWTS is saying, "why not?". Is America ready? Be afraid, be very afraid. We heard from the grapevine that Lance Bass will be dancing on Dancing With The Stars.

Jefferey Johnson:
Ambrose, you dance salsa, cha cha, and rumba almost professionally these days, what do you think? I think the news is a better than Obama's VP pick this week.

Lance Bass, below
Phil Spencer:
I am sure gay fans, yours truly included, are hopeful the show will finally have its first out gay competitor in former 'NSYNC member Lance Bass. We've all been waiting for someone in our community to represent us. And Lance Bass, not only he is cute, he is sexy and he is a good dancer of the lot.


Ambrose Aban:
I love and I enjoy dancing the salsa, rumba and cha cha with another man (who is well trained as a leader), it is easier for me personally because I am trained as a follower. So I am not sure Lance will be comfortable leading on the dance floor. If he is paired with Mark or Derek, I'll die. I'll be hooked.

Randy Harrison, below
Jefferey Johnson:
Well I remember reading, Conrad Green, who produces the show, talking about having a same-sex dance pairing. He thought the idea "interesting," and that he was "open to it." We read somewhere that ABC Entertainment President Stephen McPherson is also on board with idea saying, "cool", "and why not?"


Phil Spencer:
Do you think the male dancers like the idea? I know the gorgeous Cheryl Burke and the girls will have no problems dancing with gay men. In fact I think they'd love gay men as their partners.

Ambrose Aban:
I think it would be great having someone like Lance on the show. I really do. Someone like Randy Harrison, even Tom Ford, Anderson Cooper (we are not saying Cooper is gay) and someone as gorgeous as CNN's ex-anchorman, the openly gay Thomas Roberts.

Jefferey Johnson:
Not sure about Anderson Cooper, tho, is he strong enough to lift Mark Ballas? But Thomas Robert looks super strong and sexy. He definitely could lift Derek. Randy Harrison is the guy from Queer As Folk, isn't he?

Ambrose Aban:
Randy (or Justin as he is affectionately known as in Queer As Folk) is definitely an easy lift! Jonathan Roberts and all the male pros will have no problem lifting him with their strong arms.

Phil Spencer:
Ambrose, sorry, no lifts allowed! Carry Ann Inaba will go crazy!

Ambrose Aban:
Opps! I forgot. Oh screw Carry Ann. Lifts are allowed except for certain steps when legs are not allowed to fly off the floor...And I am pretty sure Randy or Lance can handle that pretty well.

Jefferey Johnson:
I don't think so, Ambrose. I think they like to lift up their legs!

Phil Spencer:
I think so, too!


Ambrose Aban:
Stop it! They will follow the rules, or risk getting voted off.

Jefferey Johnson:
With Derek or Mark in their arms, Ambrose, they will lift up their legs, trust me:)

Olympics close, Mitcham gets Gold for gay-manity.

Tonight, the Olympics will be closed in Beijing. And the last gold medal for Australia was from the 20-year-old Matthew Mitcham (below) who scored the highest scoring dive in the history of the Olympics with his sixth and final effort to become Australia's first male Olympic gold medallist in diving since Dick Eve in 1924. What a gift to gay-mankind.










The 20-year-old Sydney diver produced the highest scoring dive in the history of the Olympics with his sixth and final effort to become Australia's first male Olympic gold medallist in diving since Dick Eve in 1924.

Mitcham won gold for gay-manity.

For the record, NBC did not mention Mitcham's orientation, nor did they show his family and partner who were in Beijing after he won the gold medal in the 10m platform. But the openly gay Australian is just simply too happy to give a shit.

Unlike Greg Louganis who did not share his orientation until his diving career was over, Mitcham is just living his life as a gay boy. And there is something extra sweet and special about that. For Mitcham, being an Olympian playing himself in a real life story, life will only get better and better.

Pie-In-The-Sky for Presidency?

Obstacles face out candidates for top office
Previously published on Advocate





















Four years ago, few voters outside Illinois knew who Barack Obama was, let alone imagined that a virtual newcomer like him could be poised to become the nation’s first African-American president. Yet, today, Obama’s historic and swift ascent toward the ultimate political prize now raises interest in another unprecedented scenario: When -- and under what circumstances -- might an openly gay person move into the Oval Office?

Although some see the candidacy of likely Democratic nominee Barack Obama as a hopeful sign that an LGBT candidate eventually could make a credible White House run, several key obstacles are in the way of there being an out presidential contender. They include the need to lift the gay military ban and to pass a workplace nondiscrimination law inclusive of LGBT workers, as well as the challenge of seeing out leaders elected or appointed to statewide or national roles that are "the usual launching pads for the White House.

Concerned Women for America (CWA) condemns Hallmark's gay cards

Most states don't recognize gay marriage -- but now Hallmark does!
The world's leading card company is rolling out same-sex wedding cards.

And as naturally expected, senior members of Concerned Women for America (CWA) have condemned Hallmark's marketing of greeting cards aimed at gays and lesbians. CWA is a women's Christian public policy group that opposes gay marriage, abortion, pornography and international organisations such as the UN. Hallmark is now producing same-sex wedding cards featuring two tuxedos, overlapping hearts or intertwined flowers, with best wishes inside. The language inside the cards is neutral, with no mention of wedding or marriage, making them also suitable for a commitment ceremony. Hallmark says the move is a response to consumer demand, not any political pressure.

Scroll down to see Hallmark's latest cards.

It's Senator Joe Biden!

Senator Joe Biden is Obama's running mate. How great of an advocate would he be?
















Ambrose Aban:
He is the one. Senator Joe Biden of Delaware. I am still following the GOP responses on Larry King, and yes, I got my text message around 9pm tonight. It is official now. Biden is now on the front page of Obama's website. We don't know about his financial, social record, etc, do we? McCain's people and the press are going to dig deeper on Biden's past in the next few hours. Have you heard anything else? His legal trouble? Women, sex, etc? I heard he has a son going to Iraq. And he is super cute. Is he straight, bi, gay?

George Tyler:
Slow dowm...Yep, it's official. Barack Obama named his running mate and according to a Democratic official, he is obviously trying to balance his ticket with a seasoned congressional veteran well-versed in foreign policy and defense issues. Obama wanted someone energetic and someone who is able. We will learn more and more about him in the next few hours.

Chris Goodridge:
And all the dirty details, too. Was he a good choice? Yes. But not the best. Not the right one,according to McCain's people and some Dem people.

Ambrose Aban:
I dont't know him well to agree at this time. But I am watching Larry King now. One of Larry's guests, the gorgeous guy, is also saying that Biden is the wrong choice. What people want to know if (while McCain is a war hero) Biden is a wisdom? And, before I forget, shout out to Candy Crowley -- a great journalist, a class act. Is this Biden guy the most mascular and macho of them all on war and on issue #1? I heard he is an expert in foreign policy. And I remember in a debate during the primary process, Biden said it very clearly (when he was still runing to become the next president of America going against Obama and all the other candidates) that Obama "is not ready to be the president"

Chris GOodrige:
Ouch! Yes, Joe Biden said that very clearly during that debate. Tonight, in Denver, Associate Press said that Obama went with the status quo. In picking Biden to be his running mate, Obama sought to shore up his weakness — inexperience in office and on foreign policy — rather than underscore his strength as a new-generation candidate defying political conventions. And yes, his son is super cute.

Jefferey Johnson:
Obama picked the ultimate insider rather than a candidate from outside of Washington, such as Govs. Tim Kaine of Virginia or Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas; or from outside his party, such as Sen. Chuck Hagel of Nebraska; or from outside the mostly white male club of vice presidential candidates. I am not impressed.

Ambrose Aban:
We also learned from CNN that Hillary Rodham Clinton didn't even make his short list. So much for saying that Hillary "should be on everybody's list" shortly after he was nominated as the Democratic nominee. Do you think Oprah and Michelle Obama have something to do with his decision?

Phil Spencer:
Absolutely I think so. I am cool with Obama's choice since he cannot handle Hillary who is too good to be his VP. Biden doesn't represent the middle class, yes?


George Tyler:
You bet. But America is quick to realize tonight that Obama is really not ready to the President of the United States. And many people (especially Hillary's 20 mil+ supporters) now think that Obama is indeed an idiot.

Will Kevin and Scotty love and live happily in California after November?

[Brothers and Sisters: 3 Season, ABC, Sept 28]


Back in America, it is seldom portrayed, really, the way it is being depicted on ABC. Fuck the writer's strike. We've lost some of the thrills on Brothers & Sisters because we were kept waiting for too long.






Gorgeous Canadian, Luke McFarlane, below, plays Scotty, Kevin's lover on Brothers & Sisters on ABC.
















As Hillary Clinton is busy explaining her position (and her busy schedule, making a case for Obama) as people are thinking she is not doing enough to convince her supporters to warm up to Obama before the convention on Wednesday, Kevin and Scott are busy, shooting their love scenes for their Season 3 episodes.

Scotty and Kevin, below, exchanging their vows in the presence of their loved ones.















Question is, will Obama support and respect same-sex love and marriage like Kevin's and Scotty's? Or risk losing the gay votes to McCain in November? Where is Obama going to stand on substance? Will Obama keep his promise to keep it clean and not run a negative campaign? We are seeing it everyday and people are begining to ask, is Obama the real deal? Dems are never going to put their genie back in the bottle.

The cast of Brothers & Sisters on ABC.


BROTHERS & SISTERS-THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON comes to DVD on September 23 - just in time to catch up with the Walkers before season 3 premieres on ABC on September 28 and the general elections in November!

Below, Scotty and Kevin sharing an intense kiss, expresing their love for one another. We queers are asking our presidential candidates to acknowledge us, recognize our love, to give us our rights, to provide us a place to be happy, married, and to be loved.

John Kerry, Nancy Pelosi, John Edwards, to name three, have many homes, also.

Ambrose Aban:
It is too funny. Democrats have been wringing their hands since yesterday about one seemingly daunting figure in new polls showing a tightening of the presidential race. Actually Obama is slipping off. And he is going on an attack by asking McCain how may home does he own. His brand new ad says: "7 homes"...telling and reminding viewers to not let McCain move in (to his next home) -- the White House.

Phil Spencer:
It is obvious. Obama is having trouble letting the voters especially Hillary supporters to warm up to him. There are a few reasons for this. As an observer, I see Obama is being immature about the "$5 million" joke, and about the definition of "rich". We are not stupid and we know that it was a joke. Do you think McCain is that stupid to mention $5 million on purpose. That is one reason voters are not too keen to warm up to Obama because he is not genuine enough.

Ambrose Aban:
Hillary's 20m primary-season supporters are not too excited either. According to a poll today, 27% of Hillary's supporters have not decided, and more than 20% of them will vote for McCain. That's bad news for Obama. Some are interpreting this as evidence that Obama has a lingering problem with the Democratic base, and even speculating that he consequently might shock the world and pick Clinton as his running mate.

Phil Spencer:
Lost in this analysis, though, is a crucial fact: many of Clinton's primary-season supporters are not necessarily loyal Democratic presidential election voters.

Ambrose Aban:
Indeed, many of the states and counties where Clinton racked up her biggest numbers in the primaries are places where voters remain Democrats in name only (think Kentucky). Such voters may have turned out to participate in an exciting 2008 Democratic primary, but they have not voted for Democrats in recent presidential elections, and can hardly be considered part of the Democratic base. As one of my guest bloggers said today to Obama, quoting Miranda Priestly of Devil Wears Prada, the character played powerfully by Meryl Streep, "you are an idiot if you don't hire her"

Thanks Hallmark! Hallmark offers coming-out cards last year, offers gay wedding cards today

Now I pronounce you Top and Bottom. Top, you may kiss the Bottom.

Yes, now that more than 1,000 newspapers across the nation accept wedding announcements from same-sex couples, it only seems right that Hallmark should make a card specifically celebrating that happy occasion. And they have. Finally.

According to a report in Gay News Blog recently, Hallmark added the cards after California joined Massachusetts as the only U.S. states with legal gay marriage.

"It's our goal to be as relevant as possible to as many people as we can," Hallmark spokeswoman Sarah Gronberg Kolell told the Associated Press.

According to the article by AJ Burton of Gay Financial Network, GFN, it's not just an attempt to stay relevant, though. By not speaking directly to gay unions with their cards, the company was missing out on an ever-growing piece of the gay marriage pie, an industry that continues to boom. By some estimates, gay weddings and commitment ceremonies for same-sex couples generate about $1 billion a year in revenue, according to media and entertainment company PlanetOut. A survey conducted by PlanetOut shows "gay consumers earn 20% more than their straight counterparts, on average, and spend about 10% more on nuptials."

Although Hallmark doesn't offer cards that specifically cover other legally sanctioned forms of gay relationships -- like Civil Unions or Domestic Partnerships -- the language inside the cards makes no specific mention of wedding or marriage, so the cards could be used to cover any kind of gay union. The images on the outside, however, are clearly geared toward same-sex relationships, as the cards feature graphics that show two tuxedos, overlapping hearts or intertwined flowers that are unmistakably for gay couples.

Hallmark began offering coming-out cards last year. The introduction of the gay marriage cards makes Hallmark the first major greeting card company in the country to make such an offering. And for the moment, they've got a lock on gay marriages: Hallmark's largest competitor, American Greetings Corp., says it has no plans to enter the market, saying its current offerings are general enough to speak to a lot of different relationships.

Are newly-weds in California in trouble?

Same sex marriage will be put to the test on Nov. 4, when gay and gay-friendly voters in California -- expected to turn out in record numbers to support same sex marriage -- also will face a proposition to put a ban on same-sex marriage in the state Constitution. The foregone conclusion, expressed by prominent gay journalist, Andrew Sullivan, and others, is that this means trouble for gay newlyweds. According to a news report recently, blacks, like whites, are divided on the issue. In March 2000, when Californians voted on Proposition 22 (the statutory ban on gay marriage that the state Supreme Court struck down in May this year), a Los Angeles Times exit poll showed that levels of support were very similar among the major ethnic groups, with Hispanics slightly more opposed to allowing gays to marry, Asians and whites slightly less opposed, and blacks right in the middle.

From Joe.My.God: Bilerco DNC Donation Fund.

[From Joe.My.God]
Let's join hands and help send Marti, Jerame and Bil to the Democratic Convention!

Bilerico, the nation's largest group LGBT blog, is sending a contingent to cover the Democratic National Convention and they are asking for help in meeting their funding goal.

Marti Abernathey, Jerame Davis and Bil Browning are heading to Denver for the 2008 Democratic National Committee Convention (DNCC) from August 22 through August 30. Marti and Jerame are part of the official Indiana Delegation, which will provide unique angles and in-depth coverage for LGBT issues like never before.

All three bloggers will be covering the convention exclusively for Bilerico Project and Bilerico-Indiana.

About the Bloggers
Marti is the 1st transgender delegate from the state of Indiana. She has declared as an Obama supporter.

Jerame is a member of the Rules Committee that meets right before the convention. He has declared as a Hillary supporter.

Bil has scored a floor pass and will also be blogging from the outside covering protests and street activism. He has declared that he'd vote for Paris Hilton over John McCain.

According to Joe of Joe.My.God, your generosity will help cover hotel, meal and transportation costs. We need to raise at least $1000 for each blogger. Hotel rooms are $200/night and plane tickets start at $299. Any amount raised above target will be split evenly between the three bloggers.

To donate go to: http://joemygod.blogspot.com and you'll find a donate button (please click on it) and donate accordingly.

After tomorrow, it will again be legal in Louisiana to fire somebody because they are gay. Another example of our desperate need for ENDA.

As previously reported and published on Joe.My.God, Christianists Win, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal To End LGBT Job Protections

According to the award-winning LGBT blogger, Joe, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal is allowing to a 2004 law that protects LGBT people from job discrimination to lapse, claiming (lying) that state and federal laws already protect people from being fired for being gay.
Calling the executive order unnecessary, Gov. Bobby Jindal said Wednesday he would not reissue a ban on discriminating against gays and lesbians in the workplace.

“We are not going to renew it and that shouldn’t come as a surprise to anybody,” Jindal said about the executive order signed by then-Gov. Kathleen Blanco in December 2004. The order, which some church groups and Jindal have criticized over the years, is set to expire Friday.

Queers to Obama: You're An Idiot If You Don't Hire Hillary!

[DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION:
Obama says "I want someone to challenge me..." Suddenly Hillary's name comes to mind. He sounds now like she did back at the primary. Who would you recommend for the country?














Ambrose Aban:
Hillary Rodham Clinton. Because she is phenomenal and she has extra 20 million votes. 18 million of them are women. That's 18 million cracks up there for Hill. She won big, swing states including Pennsylvania and Ohio in the primary. Hill will not only be Obama's best team partner in the White House but also the best executive for this country. And that's where the problem lies -- the fact that she is better and more prepared to pick up the red phone at 3am. She has been gracious to the Obama campaign. And there is Bill we all can always count on. Adding her name to the ticket would unite and energize the remaining Democrats who are slow to warm up to Bam. We heard a recent poll of convention delegate showed that nearly 30% would like to see Hill as VP, by far the largest bloc. She is also ready to take on the national security. With our favorite girl on the ticket, all evidence points to united party and a Democratic victory in November. Meanwhile, McCain has been on roll, delivering jabs at Obama. Obama has also been called an elitist. And he has a problem dealing with that. Yes he owns one house (but not because he is poor, he is also a millionaire). And he thinks McCain should not have more than one also, and should not be richer than the middle class America. That is why Obama is not doing well as he should (with all the media behind him and the 5-3 ratio in adspend, $55 mil in July for Obama against $33 mil for McCain, etc). Hillary will never say things like that or take McCain's definition of "rich" seriously. She knows it is a joke. God forbids, if something happens to Obama, she can step in like the president. But it is NAC - not a chance!

George Tyler:
The Hillary factor: She knows McCain well enough and she knows how to attack and strike effectively. Yes she can handle national security just as good if not better than McCain. With McCain hitting hard on Obama, he needs Hillary more than any of the guys we've been hearing about..especially that Tim Kayne guy, the Gov. from Pennsylvania. She knows McCain is a former bomb thrower who also hates the war. She knows McCain well enough to talk about his many homes, etc) and to change the dynamic of the campaign. Obama, like, the rest of the guys, cannot jazz it up out there. Hillary can.

Chris Goodridge:
Obama is still stuggling with the middle class. And Obama is wealthy and a latte-drinking liberal, too. McCain is going to get aggressive and will defense himself effectively. Obama will be seen as a poor soul trying to figure out how in the world did McCain manage to marry a very very very rich wife. We cannot deny that McCain has all the right qualities, skills, and advantages of micro elements etc to win in November while Obama is slipping down in the poll, he should make it simple and shorten his long sentences. He needs to be more aggressive.

Jefferey Johnson:
Hill would be an oustanding VP. She is also more than ready to take over...whenever.
Her issue has always been the economy. Obama got the nomination because of the troubled war. People hate the war that is costing so much money and so many lives including the Iraqis. But war is McCain's strongest suit. And McCain is the better manager of war and Hill is the better manager of our economy. Obama is neither here nor there. I am just saying...Hillary voted for the war, she did, but she did not vote for failure. Obama knew that but he used that against her back in the primary. There is no way for him to pick Hill because she is way too smart and she will, no doubt, 101%, will outshine him. And that is not good. Also, you are right, McCain and Obama are both wealthy, both millionaire...only Obama sounds more unbelievable.

Phil Spencer:
Hill's a breath of fresh air, she would be a phenomenal executive. She shares American principle and values. She is calm and collected, a soothing voice we all can count on...a voice that says "we'll be there and we'll get there together". People like that. We are tired of Bam promising hope and change. Change is a woman president and not half-black, half-white president. Obama should not have mentioned anything about McCain's many homes and should have just stuck to the real issues -- the economy and war. McCain campaign hits back today, linking Obama to a convicted felon. Obama should not have blasted McCain on his homes. Time and time again, Obama did not stick to his campaign's master plan of action. You will never hear Hillary saying things that are trivial and insignificant. I saw Hillary today on CNN and I couldn't help but noticing -- she didn't sound like she meant it when she urged her supporters to vote for Obama.

Chris Goodridge:
I agree. She didn't sound genuine enough. "I strongly urge you to reconsider...". . But do they listen this time? The poll shows McCain is leading in the poll...and 27% of Hill's supporter are not sure who to support. You all sound like you want McCain to take over the White House. I am a fan of Obama and Hillary but McCain is really the more qualified guy to lead this country. With all the scandals of the past, big national programs, I also see a bigger opportunity if Hillary is in the ticket. Obama is trying to attract maximum exposure by telling the press that he is going to introduce his running mate "to the world" real soon.

George Tyler:
As Miranda Priestly says in Devil Wears Prada: "You're an idiot if you don't hire her" I can't believe I'm going to say this, but looking at the political landscape, Hillary is the most practical choice for Vice President.

Ambrose Aban:
For the country, gosh, we can't imagine who will be on the Republican ticket. Tom Rich? Joe Lib for the Dem? Tim Kayne? None of them is like Hillary. Ok, number one, she is a woman, that's a change, right there. Number two, she is a major international figure and a political icon with powerful political connections and the Dem party is expected to unite behind her. Hillary is the best girl in the business. She can fill in the national security form. Bill thinks so, too (not because she is his wife, but because he knows her the most).

Jefferey Johnson:
Back then, Lincoln had no say in who his Vice Presidential pick was, that was decided at the convention, but he did get to pick his cabinet. According to a news report recently, in May when Obama was asked if he would pick Hillary as VP, he spoke of the book as precedent for that decision.

"I will tell you, though, that my goal is to have the best possible government, and that means me winning," Obama said, per ABC News' Sunlen Miller. "And so, I am very practical minded. I'm a practical-minded guy. And, you know, one of my heroes is Abraham Lincoln."

George Tyler:
It is really a good time for Dem leaders to do what Lincoln would do, unite the party and head towards the White House. Pick Hillary Clinton. Put her in the White House, give Bill a big role to play, and bring back the economy and the soldiers home safely. It is so sad that she is not the nominee because she has been in the White House...like her husband, Bill (who was a great President by the way), she is good, smart, fearless, and she is powerful and she is Hillary Rodham Clinton, not just another politician. So, yes, I agree...choose someone else, and Obama will lose in November...Obama, you are an idiot if you didn't pick Hillary as America's VP!

Latest announcement from The GAYS of DAYTIME

[Verbotene Liebe: Forbidden Love]

Don't miss the live chat with one of the world's most beautiful faces, Thore Scholerman (below), with Roddieb of The GAYS of DAYTIME.














For those of you not familiar with "Chrolli", it stands for Christian and Oliver. Thore Schölermann is playing Christian Mann (an ex-convict and an up and rising gay boxer) and Jo Weil is playing his lover, Oliver Sabel (a waiter at his aunty's cafe in Dusseldorf) on Germany's Verbotene Liebe (Forbidden Love). What is so great about their love story? Great script, great shots, great kissing and making out scenes, great storyline. Both actors are straight and they have certainly developed their characters very convincingly, and for the most part, very real and genuine. And as a result, millions are falling in love with them. We queers are hungry for love, and we certainly have not seen such strong, deep love played beautifully on the Internet before. Their story is remarkably told, well scripted and beautifully acted way beyond the realism of love and life. Thanks to the Internet and some dedicated fans who subtitle Christian's and Oliver's love story and post the episodes on YouTube. Thore and Jo have become household names in many English speaking countries. In one of the videos posted by YouTube user ichglotzutube, has been viewed over 237,000 times. In that scene Christian surrenders to his feelings: "I've tried fighting it, I've fallen in love with you...", Christian can no longer deny he has fallen in love with Oliver, left.















That scene captured the hearts of heterosexual and homosexual from around the world, driving the story further and deeper into the hearts of so many who love them and believe in their acting.














It is small wonder now that their love story continues to attract new viewers from across America and Canada. Kudos to the writers and producers for bravely telling this story. The fans are humbly grateful. QueerGam named the producer (whoever he is) as one of its top ten gayest people in the world (scroll down to who is top on QueerGam's list)

According to Roddieb, for the past couple of months he has been corresponding with Thore Schölermann and Jo Weil through VL's press agency. He has invited them to spend 30 - 45 minutes with their English speaking fans from around the world through his very own proprietary Virtual Chat software program. VL's press department confirmed with Rodney that they have agreed to do this and they will be setting a date for the event some time toward the end of this month. Rodney expects the event will take place in September. We have great expectations and fans of Christian and Oliver are dying to chat/talk with them via Rodney's virtual chat software program.















Roddieb:
This will be a LIVE audio and video event that will take place on the Internet. I will moderate the session from one video window while Thore and Jo will be LIVE in the 2nd window. Fans will simply go to a web site and login with their name and a password that I will provide later.

Fans will be given an opportunity to talk with the two guys we have all come to love so much. People with a microphone will be able to talk while those without a microphone can use text chat. And, those who just want to listen and watch can do so. The event will be recorded and available on the site and on YouTube. I talked to Wolfie, the Admin of this board, on the phone today to let him know what was going on before making this announcement. I did not want to make this announcement until a date was set because I did not want to jeopardize the event. However, some people have discovered the web site that is setup for the event and I have been getting emails and phone calls today about it. Google crawled the site and indexed it within 7-days (damn Google). So, I decided I should share this with everyone even though it is still a little premature. I just hope the leaking of the event doesn't have a negative impact on this. I have been excited for weeks about this and it has been difficult keeping it so quiet. I hope many of you will participate if we can successfully set a date.

Meet QueerGam's 10 gayest people.

Paula Dean and her boys, Bobby and Jamie, top QueerGam's list of ten gayest people in our little corner of the world.



















Jefferey Johnson:
Who are the gayest of them all? Hmmm...Michael Phelps. Just kidding. I think those men who have the power to change minds but are still hiding in the closet! They are the gayest in my opinion! But...I am not a fan of people who think people don't know that they are gay! And I think, the producers and writers of German's soap station (Das Ersta) are gayer and queerer than our Bravo and Logo stations, no? They have more gay characters and gay TV series than we do. Here's the thing, looking gay or behaving gayly is not gay enough in a deeper sense, in my opinion...so I don't think olympian Johnny Weir, or the Dancing With The Star's pros and Bruno, or Travis and Benji (So You Think You Can Dance?) or Tim Gunn, or that black catwalk guy on America's Next Top Model, Queer Eye's guys, or those kids from Project Runway or the participants of the HGTV's Next Design Star, or Ellen Degeneres...not even the stars of Brothers & Sisters...or the Russian and German's male gymnasts, or those Singapore Airlines' flight stewards, or Betty Suarez's nephew...None of them are gay enough. They don't make gay gayer or queer queerer. See, the ex-NJ governor, McGreevey, to me is just a gay man seeking men or loving men. But not gay enough. Do you know what I mean? Elton Brown of Iron Chef is gayer and he is the real deal, teaching us to be good cooks in our own kitchen. I am just saying...

Ambrose Aban:
I would say Margaret Cho is gayer than most of them because she is the funniest of them all. She is so gay eventho she is not. Kathy Griffin is also very gay-thinking because she is saying "be gay for all I care, be gay all you want, be happy, be proud, but don't be fucking with me". And, these days, I think SF's governor, Gavin Newsome, is getting gayer and gayer by getting married to a woman. That is sooo gay. Do you know what I mean?

George Tyler:
Hillary Clinton is very gay because she is very gay-friendly. And of course, Robert Brandan Sandor, the founder of HIV-UB2. Net, who is an "unstoppable protagonist" and who is fighting with everyone as he is trying his best to save HIV-negative men. I don't think those gay bloggers are gay enough. All they want to do is to be the first to out men -- men in the media limelight.

Phil Spencer:
I hear you totally, George. I think the gayest of them all are Elizabeth Taylor and Paris Hilton, "you are hot!" Bill Maher, and American Idol runner-up, David Archuleta. Elton John, George Michael, and all the gay superstars are just not gay enough for me.

Chris Goodridge:
You think so? Elizabeth Taylor maybe but I think Paris Hilton is only using gay people to keep her flame burning. Yes, Bill Maher is gayer than most of them and is a straight guy. David Archuleta is looking gay but he is not "gay" enough to be in the same room as Margaret Cho or Tracy Ullman. I think Wilhemina Slater (Vanessa Williams) fits the bill because she is gayer and queerer than her bitchy Girl Friday, Mark (Michael Urie). Miranda Priestley (Devil Wears Prada) is more gay compared with Stanley Tucci. Or Samantha Jones is gayer than Standford. See the difference? I don't ever think that Carrie Bradshaw is gay enough.

Ambrose Aban:
And I think Karen's maid, Rosario, is way gayer than Will and Grace!

George Taylor:
Hmmm, I think Wilhemina Slater is gay in that sense but not as gay as Bill Maher. I think Bill Maher is so gay and so real. I think Bill Maher has no problems with men. I really do. Something about Bill Maher (also straight guys like Glenn Beck and Tucker Carlson) scream "you can suck my dick if you want to, give me good head, but I am not sucking you"...I think they'd love getting sucked.

Chris Goodridge:
Lol...I think the least gay are those gay-looking and gay-sounding hosts from What Not To Wear, Queer Eye for Straight Guys, Project Runway, HGTV, and Ryan Seacrest.guys, etc...They are just not gay enough for me. They have no gay meat. They look "gay" because they like men, but just not "gay" enough.


Phil Spencer:
I agree and I know where you are going with this. You are right. Bill Maher is so gay, he will not mind you sucking him but he never ever condemn gay people. Glenn Beck I am sure would love to get head and so is Tucker Carlson. They all think they are not interested in men but they are friendly and they know it is not going to be the end of the world or end of their lives by getting head from men. Of course they will do it discreetly.

Chris Goodridge:
See that is so gay to me. If you were to think about it deeper, I must say that Paula Dean and her boys of The Food Network are the gayest and queerest of them all. Hands down. They are the friendliest queer-loving people on planet earth. They are so gay, they are just like dogs - totally non-judgemental, they accept who we are. They don't judge us. They just love us. Gay or not, black or white, young or old, famous or not, fashionable or not.

Ambrose Aban:
Aww, I totally agree! Paula and her boys, Jamie and Bobby, are the gayest and queerest of them all. And they have this "happy-to-be-alive" attitude. They have no racial or sexual hang-ups. Good, gay-friendly people. Yes, I think they are the gayest people in the world. And of course, there is no men on planet earth can plan and produce an event like the Opening Ceremony of Beijing Olympics like Zhang Yimou can. It is beyond me.

Jefferey Johnson:
What can I say? Zhang Yimou is so gay in that sense. And, what is there not to love about Paula Dean and her boys? Bobby and Jamie are sooo gay and sooo cuteBut they are "gay" not because they are cute. They are "gay" because they genuinely like gay people. You see, being gay is not about fucking another man. Being gay is like being Jamie and Bobby Dean -- accepting, accommodating, loving and being a real mama's boys. Every gay man in the world must have at least one of their recipes.

Chris Goodridge:
I want Jamie Dean. I've been a fan forever, totally my type!

Phil Spencer:
I thought Ambrose Aban is your type!

Chris Goodridge:
Lol lol lol...Ambrose likes Jamie, too!

Ambrose Aban:
Lol...whatever! I am so not gay.

QueerGam's Top Ten Gayest People.

1) Paula Dean
2) Margaret Cho
3) Kathy Griffin
4) Bill Maher
5) Elibzaeth Taylor
6) Producer of Das Ersta's "Verbotene Liebe" German's Soap Series
7) Robert Brandon Sandor, Founder of HIV-UB2.Net
8) Mayor Gavin Newsome
9) Editor of Men's Fitness
10)Zhang Yimou

Are we supporting Bam? Is he the right manager for the economy and war?

Ambrose Aban:
Many of you queers have asked me this: Are you supporting Obama? It is always hard for me to say, yes or no. Yes because of his message of hope and change at the begining when he was campaigning against Hillary. No because McCain is way more experienced, more decisiive, crisp, clearer, and more to the point. McCain uses none of that deep, profound speech to get his messages across. It is always easy to understand McCain than Obama. McCain is not going to support same sex marriage. At least he means it and being honest about it, and risk losing the gay votes for being honest about it. McCain even said that he would rather lost in November than losing the war.

Chris Goodrige:
Obama should just stop saying anything about hope and change. He should just go on saying that things are going to suck less. That's all. But for some of you Americans, it is too late...

Phil Spencer:
Obama is becoming more and more unbelievable. At the recent forum on values and faith, which was chaired by an evangelical pastor, Rick Warren, Obama was swallowed alive by McCain although the media still think he is still the better candidate. On top of that, the media (and his camp) accused McCain of cheating. And the worst -- he took McCain's $5 million joke seriously only to show his weakness and his inability to accept he is the weaker one.

Ambrose Aban:
Many of my American friends, gays included, have said that Obama is, bit by bit, showing that he is not the strategic manager for the economy and war. Just like McCain, Obama is not supporting same-sex marriage, just so you know. He even said it clearer than McCain last Saturday.

Jefferey Johnson:
So true. When you look at his face when he answered the question, he was forcing himself to say what he said. It was totally not believable. So, like many of you gays out there, of course I'm supporting Obama. But as an observer, I think McCain is the right manager for our ailing economy, the war, and healthcare. Actually since his primary days with Hillary, many of Obama's answers about same-sex marriage, economy and healthcare, war, etc, have not sat well with me, too.


George Tyler:
What’s very sad and true is, I don’t believe him at all. I think he will fail without Hillary Clinton (and Bill) in the White House. But Obama is trying to win an election by being “centrist.” At the expense of my rights and yours as well.

Phil Spencer:
But we cannot have another Bush in there for the next four years or eight years.

Jefferey Johnson:
I don't think McCain is going to be like Bush. And I don't Obama is going to be like Bill Clinton, either. They are all different in their approach and the way they think and do things. Obama or McCain (whoever is winning in November) will be advised and assisted by so many people in the White House. The new president will not make his own decision. The war by Bush was not Bush's fault 100% although people think that it was 101% his wrongdoing. It was not. And Obama knows that.