Greetings from Mexico

Hola. After over twelve hours of traveling, me and James have landed safe and sound in lovely Valle de Bravo. The weather is delightful and its great seeing James´ parents. Not alot to blog about right now, just wanted to keep you all informed that hopefully I will be giving you updates of my Mexican adventures.

That Time of the Year

So today might be my last entry this year, as I prepare to leave for Mexico for three weeks and not sure if I'll be able to update my site, off-site. I would like to take a moment to wish all of you dear readers a very safe and happy holiday and a rockin' new year.

If I'm able to update while I'm basking in the amazing sunlight of Ville del Bravo, you'll get some news south of the border. Enjoy the rest of 2005.

You're Either In or Out

Just when I thought I would have no good reality television to watch, along comes season two of Project Runway. Heidi Klum and company deliver a fascinating look into the creative process of fashion design with fierce competition, tell it like it is judges, and innovative designers. The best part about the show is that each contestant possesses a high level of talent and depending on how they can handle stress, the other competitors and stay innovative in their dress designs - they will remain on the show.

I'm going to predict that the three designers who will make it to fashion week in New York are: Chloe, Emmett, and Santino.

Supersize Me

One thing you have to love about a superhero film is when the actor selected is too big for the role. If rumors are to be believed, Brandon Routh might just be too big to fill Superman's tights, literally.

It's been overheard that Hollywood executives are worried that Brandon's bulge might be too distracting for viewers and have ordered that he be digitally reduced before the film hits theaters. You have to love when a source is quoted as saying, "It's a major issue for the studio. Brandon is extremely well endowed and they don't want it up on the big screen." The only thing this is really going to do is strum up much needed publicity for the film and start a search for hints of his endowment. You have to love the press for bringing this to our attention. Up, up and away.

Two for Zero

So once again, I'm wrong at picking the winner of my favorite reality shows. First the end of ANTM pulls a fast one and awards the title to Nicole (very beautiful, just doesn't have the presence that Nik was able to captivate in a photograph) and then a surprise victory for Danni on the season's end of Survivor.

I'm still surprised that Rafe and Stephanie were stupid enough to not eliminate a huge threat to their success as Danni. I understand she a very likeable person and easy to be around, but if you're going to bring someone like Lydia to the final four (sorry Lydia) who doesn't pose a possible threat, you could have secured your place in the final two, so why eliminate her fourth. By keep Lydia till third, you would have secured yourself a place in the final two and the jury would have to award a victory to the people who had the most say in why they are on the panel. Not smart game-playing, but until I'm in their shoes (think Survivor 13), I can't say how much personal friendships and loyalties play into the game.

Congratulations to both Nicole and Danni, great game-playing and welcome to reality TV history.

Home on the Range

So Brokeback Mountain opens today in New York (in only 3 friggin' theaters... talk about limited release) and I thought it was only fair to salute the other New York cowboy, the naked one. Although the winter weather does not allow us to bask in the glory of a muscular former model turned cowboy boot wearing, lyric singing tourist attraction. I still salute you.

I thought it was time to give you your props Naked Cowboy for the brave fact, that come hell or high water you are out there daily in your two pairs of underwear (so as not to scare those mid-western housewives, or threaten their husbands masculinity, God forbid we see any outlines or bulges), flexing endlessly for photo after photo, and bringing a little country to our fair city. Time Square just wouldn't be the same without you. See you in the spring, guitar strings blazing. Rock On!

PS- So until your return, I'll have to turn to Jake for warmth (something tells me, you won't mind.)

End of the AM

Seems Nicole Richie and DJ fiance Adam Goldstein, aka DJ AM, have called off her engagement after four years together. Sad, it seems like the end-of-the-year is all about divorce proceedings and the end of a bunch of celebrity romances. First Paris (Richie's ex-best friend forever) & Paris, then Nick & Jessica (which seemed doomed long ago, thanks to her crazy controlling father), and it even appears Ms. Spears is have some domestic problems looming on the horizon.

I blame the media and the stars ever growing need for fame for the demise of most of these relationships. We are so happy to see someone famous fail at the price of our own satisfaction and morbid curiosity. Not to mention the price fame seems to cause on any relationship. I hope ultimately, these stars find peace within themselves this holiday season and find what they are looking for.

May The Fiercest Win

Tonight is the season finale of ANTM, and my prediction is that Nik will win this cycle. However, knowing how this season has progressed so far, I'm most likely completely wrong. But, with consistently good pictures and a good positive energy, I'll go out on the limb and say we will be watching Nik's "Life as a Covergirl" soon enough. Here's to what I hope is an exciting final show and I can't wait to see the final two take the runway. Stomp it out, girl.

Today's Beauty Moment

So with tonight's panel discussion, it doesn't leave me a whole lot of time to blog, however it's always a good excuse to run a photo of Jake. Enjoy the beauty that is Mr. Gyllenhaal, and not that it needs the attention but Brokeback Mountain opens in select theaters on Friday.

More on Moore

Tomorrow night, a panel I had a hand in creating will finally happen. Force of Nature: The Art and Activism of Frank Moore will take place at the SVA Amphitheater starting at 7pm. If you are looking for something good to do tomorrow night, please come by and see what I expect will be a lively and moving panel.

An internationally-recognized artist whose works are found in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, Moore was also a longtime board member of Visual AIDS and a collaborating member of a group of artists who conceived and launched the [Red] Ribbon Project, which in 1991 created one of the most enduring symbols of AIDS awareness. Moore’s paintings – luminous scenes juxtaposing natural and human elements to explore social and environmental concerns – have been the subject of numerous gallery and museum exhibitions throughout the U.S. Born on Long Island, Frank Moore died of AIDS at the age of 48 in 2002.

Force of Nature: The Art and Activism of Frank Moore
School of Visual Arts Amphitheater
209 East 23 Street, 3rd floor
suggested donation of $10, proceeds which will benefit Visual AIDS.

Street Art

Tonight is the opening reception of a new group show in Park Slope of street-scapes including the work of Warren Beishir. Me and Warren go way back to grad school and it's good to reconnect with him. Sentinals: Water Towers of New York, features the work of 13 artists whose work depicts these silent giants that still grace the city's skyline. You can check out the show at the Object Image Gallery on 95 Fifth Avenue in Park Slope. The opening reception is from 6 to 9pm.

It's Not Over

Today is World AIDS Day, so please take a moment and reflect on those we have lost and on how the struggle for a cure is still needed. Bristol-Myers Squibb is donating a dollar for each online candle that is lite, so stop by their web site and help the cause. Thank you.

Creativity = More Sex

So this should come as no surprise, artists tend to have more sex (this explains a lot). Psychologists at the University of Newcastle and the Open University in England completed a study where the found that professional artists and poets have about twice the amount of partners, as non-creative people.

The study also showed that the average number of partners increases as their creative output went up. The more attention their work garnered, the more appealing the artist's allure, the famous person mentality. Their active sex lives is often tolerated even by long-term partners, because they expect less loyalty and fidelity from them.

The study proved to be both accurate in both male and female artists but doesn't come with a price. It was also concluded that artist and poets tend to have a higher rate of depression (again, this explains a lot). So while creative people tend to have more sex with more partners, we're stuck fighting years of depression. Well, at least we're having fun while we make great art.

Place Your Bets on Red

Although I'm rarely correct when it comes to predicting who will win Survivor, my money is on Rafe Judkins. Not only is the 'little gay Mormon' kicking ass in the challenges, he's not ruffling any feathers to do so. Besides he's so damn likeable, I don't know how anyone wouldn't reward him the million bucks. But then again, the nice guy usually finishes last, but there are those exceptions, most notably Ethan from Survivor: Africa. Hopefully Rafe will be joining those ranks soon enough. Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.

Stuffed

So with turkey day rapidly approaching, I just wanted to wish my readers a safe, delightful, holiday. Try and save room for dessert, I know I will. See you after the holiday.

Above: detail of Walton Ford, Compromised, 2002

Pick-Up Artist

Slutty Summer comes out on DVD today. Make sure you pick-up your copy today and check out my fifteen minutes of fame (ok its more like 3 minutes.) Enjoy!

The Cookie Crumbles

As always Survivor gets much more interesting once we see double-crossing, lying and backstabbing. Alliances were made to be broken and when they do, it's always good to blindside the victim. Sorry Jamie, as a strong player and one who many expected was unraveling, maybe it was a smart move voting you out. However, I do feel like Stephanie & Rafe made a huge mistake by keeping Gary. The man is slippery and smart and a threat to their chance at a million dollars. Talk about a quarterback sneak.

So hears to you Jamie, for taking it like a man and leaving the game with a good attitude and it's sure going to be interesting when you get your say to those two lucky souls who make it to the end. Funny, for a moment there, I thought that the 'Evil Axis' of six was really going to stay in tack. Silly me.

Spitfire Extinguished

I'm so mad I can't even blog straight. What the fuck? Tyra how can you even eliminate someone with too much desire and drive, isn't that what ANTM is all about. To quote you, "Lisa's the spunky girl. The girl with so much energy. The girl with so much fire. The girl that takes gorgeous photographs. But some of the judges are put off by your fire. Some of them think it's cocky. Some of them are like, 'It's great, but it's too much.'"

Instead you keep the girl who's 'kind of mediocre' - again, your words. I don't get it and I feel like the rest of the season is going to suffer without Lisa's energy and craziness. I never expected her to win, those over-the-top women I love never seem to make it to the top two, just at least make it to the top three. I'm still fuming over her elimination; I just can't write anymore.

PS- Hang in there Lisa, I know this isn't the last we've seen of you. To quote Miss Janice Dickinson from an earlier episode "This girl's a STAR!"

Baby Luv, My Baby Love

So it appears my favorite tanorexic debutante has done it again. With the edition of her latest $3,000 fashion accessory, Baby Luv, which is your keeping track is a kinkajou. This nocturnal mammal (the perfect necklace for the party hoping heiress), whose closest relative is a raccoon has begun appearing on her shoulder at events.

Poor Tinkerbell, at first she had to deal with the arrival of the addition of the other Chihuahua Bambi, who mysteriously disappeared after stirring up another 15 minutes of fame for my favorite blonde Barbie. Now she's got to deal with a creature who's peak activity hour is 7pm till midnight. Something tells me with the California law which makes owning a kinkajou illegal and Paris' short-attention span and ever changing wardrobe, Luv's 15 minutes might be up sooner then later.

PS- Hang in there Tink, we've been through this before.

Book Smart

If you know me, it should come as no surprise that I love Chuck Palahniuk's books. His phrasing and sharp wit are to die for. I also love how ravenous his fans are. Going to one of his book readings/signing is almost like attending a rock concert with Chuck as your charismatic lead singer.

I'm also amazed that even after he came out (beating a reporter to the punch), his straight fan base was pretty much unfazed, yet he didn't develop a cult following among more gay readers. However, maybe that's just the point -- good art should transcend gender, sexual orientation, race or creed. I for one taped into the gay content of his writing, while at the same time could see perfectly well how some disillusioned straight boy might never notice. With that I would like to thank Chuck for the hours of entertainment his writing has brought to me and cannot wait for the next literary masterpiece to surface.

Thumpa, Thumpa

Saw this quote online and couldn't help but laugh out loud. Enjoy!

Computer games don't affect kids... I mean if Pac-Man affected us as kids, we'd all be running around in darkened rooms, munching magic pills and listening to repetitive music. -- Kristian Wilson, Nintendo, Inc, 1989

Hmmm, sounds suspiciously like a night at the Roxy.

Live Wire

I'm making my first studio visit for my next curatorial project. So, later this afternoon, I will be visiting Eric Rhein's studio. The thing about Eric's work that I love is how easily one is captivated by the simplistic nature of the wire he uses to create his art. These elegant creations are breathtaking in person and I think will be a brilliant edition to my show idea. Having met Eric at the Visual AIDS benefit, Postcards from the Edge, I look forward to our meeting to discuss his work.

(image detail of Eye of the Sparrow -- #3, Eric Rhien, 1997, wire & paper)

Ring, Ring, Ring Goes the Telephone

So, I may not be the most tech savvy individual, but I think its time I upgraded my cell phone. I'm not sure if it is just finally ready for the cell phone graveyard or its my own desire not to be embarrassed when I have to use my dinosaur in public that's urging me to upgrade.

However, with all the current options and choices, what's a boy to do. So I'm asking you dear readers for advice on what phone works best? has cool hip features? that's not going to cost me hundreds of dollars and be obsolete in a matter of weeks. I eagerly await some responses.

Sweet Dreams are Made of This

So, I'm thrilled that the Eurythmics have a new greatest hits out, granted I purchased their last greatest hits collection, but with the allure of new songs by Anne and Dave I'm sure I'll be the owner of this latest collection, shortly. Nothing finer then a collection of their best material to get you through a rainy night.

In the Swim of Things

Some days there is just nothing to write about. Nothing exciting happened over the weekend (for me at least), celebrity news is dull, dull, dull. Nothing big happened on any of the reality shows that I watch. So, when there is nothing exciting to blog about, fall back on the old standard - Crush of the Week. This weeks victim is Aussie swim star, Ian Thorpe for no other reason then the boy has talent, an amazing body and comes from Down Under. G'day.

The Invasion Begins

So Jarhead opens tonight, which of course give me an excuse to run a photo of Jake Gyllenhaal. I'm glad to see that his fame has increased with each film he has done. He's truly risen to leading man category with smart film choices and brave performances. This holiday season we are lucky enough to have Jake in two highly anticipated films, Jarhead and Brokeback Mountain.

I would also like to mention that based on Andy Towle's review, I'll most likely see Jarhead over my other possible film choice this weekend, Chicken Little. Catching a glimpse of a nude Jake overruns my desire to watch an animated chicken save the world.

Prime Beef

So on Monday me and James went to see the movie Prime staring Uma Thurman, Meryl Streep, and rising star Bryan Greenberg. The best way to describe this movie is an independent film with two viable movie stars. While I was not a fan of the movie, both Uma and Bryan looked amazing. I think there is no bad way to capture Uma on film, this woman is flawless. She embodies what movie stars are truly made of.

As far as Bryan, I had seen him in the movie The Perfect Score, but had not noticed his allure until this movie. Traditionally handsome and downright charming, he's younger man wooing Uma was both realistic (you can see why she would fall for him) and the things fantasies are based on. I predict we will be seeing more of Mr. Greenberg in the near future.

Stacked No More?

So it looks like Pam Anderson is going to elevate some of her back problems. It's been reported that Pam (who by the way I love) is having her breasts reduced. Hopefully this reduction will not hinder her career, I believe she is a gifted comedian and having less exaggerated proportions will allow her more diverse work. I know thousand of Playboy readers weep silent tears of sadness, but I support her decision.

Pretty Hate Machine

With the AAF Contemporary Art Fair in full swing, I don't have a lot of time to blog, however I would like to leave you with "My Crush of the Week", NIN's frontman Trent Reznor. Is it just me or has he gotten hotter year after year. Not to mention he's an amazing performer and musician. Rock on, Trent.

The Price is Right

For the third year, as part of my job at SVA, I was partly responsible for selecting the recent graduates who will be showing at the Visual Arts Gallery/SVA booth (#215) at the AAF Contemporary Art Fair. This year we have 11 amazingly talented artists covering drawing, sculpture, photography, painting and etching. I'm extremely proud of each one of them and look forward to seeing them all succeed. If you have time in the next few days (the Fair runs till Sunday) stop by Pier 92 on 52nd Street. I hope to see all of you there, dear readers.

Outplayed and Eliminated

Finally, this season of Survivor is getting under way. Sadly, Brian was voted out during a double elimination week. Not that this surprises me, he was too smart for his own good. I see his demise do to his fact that he's smart and knew the game by studying the other seasons and ultimately would have been a threat when it came down to mentally out smarting his tribe members. Shame, it would have been nice to see him go a bit further, he's comments will be missed.

Body of Work

I cannot be more excited, more then 150 paintings and drawings by Egon Schiele opens today at Neue Galerie (1048 Fifth Avenue at 86th Street.) We'll have these brilliant works of art for five months in New York City and I highly recommend checking it out. His masterful handling of the human form and nearly perfect color selections will be a gem to see in the flesh, room after room. My excitement for this show, not to mention how I'm sure seeing the work will inspire me to get back to painting hardcore, is overflowing. Just the thought of his work gets me inspired. I also have exciting news that's too early to discuss, but keep reading and I promise to disclose all soon.

Assassination Tango

So I just saw the trailer for Aeon Flux and I'm totally stoked to see this film. Based on the very cool cartoon of the same name, which aired on MTV, back in the days when MTV still did ground-breaking animated television. The show was best known for its opening where a fly buzzed around a large eyeball, only to be caught in its lashes like a Venus flytrap. If the movie is half as cool as the TV show, we should be up for a wild ride on December 2nd. See you opening night, readers.

Forever Young

So with a dozen days to go till my favorite holiday, I thought I would start a countdown by mentioning some of my all time favorite horror films. Joel Schumacher's The Lost Boys has it all... vampires, strange surreal beach surroundings, a kickass rock-n-roll soundtrack and Joel's eye for casting beautiful people. Jason Patric, Jamie Gertz, Kiefer Sutherland, and Billy Wirth; there's a reason why those four are some prominent on the theatrical poster. Anyhow, I know the movie's a bit cheesy, but I'm never bored watching it and it gives me great pleasure with the visuals. One question though. What's with the Rob Lowe poster on Corey Haim's bedroom wall?

Shaken and Stirred

So with the announcement of Daniel Craig as the new 007, this gives me a chance to talk about my Crush of the Week. Let's talk about Mr. Daniel Craig. I first noticed his sexy charms in Laura Craft: Tomb Raider where he was featured exiting a shower and holding a conversation with Angelina in the nude. Most recently, I was enthralled by his performance in Layer Cake, a British gangster movie, which if you have the chance I recommend renting on DVD.

I love fearless actors who can tackle any acting challenge given to them and be so convincing... the lover of Francis Bacon, the lost intellectual in Enduring Love, and not to mention romance an older woman so passionately in The Mother. This man will slip into James Bond's charming allures with such gusto, capturing the bad guy and leaving a bevy of beautiful women in his wake. I for one and excited to see him tackle this icon and make it his own.

Curious? Curious

So it appears that I may have been right and Madonna will be performing this weekend at the Roxy. How else could we explain her entering the nightclub on Sunday. Thanks to Andy Towle and Made in Brazil for the heads-up.

Rumor Has It

So when a little rumor that Madonna would be performing at the Roxy in New York on October 22nd surfaced, promoters John Blair and Beto Suto immediately went to work squelching it. Weird, that the Roxy folks would place an e-mail out crushing it, when the last time she was rumored to appear, they did nothing to stop it.

It also makes you wonder if they didn't send the e-mail out to create a buzz for the 22nd? Or maybe she really is performing (one could only wish.) Cause you know, even though they are denying her appearance, people will still horde the club, just in case. So, I'm sure I'll see some of you dear readers on the dance floor.

And Madonna if you reading, keep up the good work and it will be heaven to have you back ruling the night.

Torch Snuffed?

So it appears there is talk about Jeff Probst leaving Survivor after this season. Let's hope that's all it is, talk. Tribal council without Jeff's witty pointed comments would be like Top Model's judging without Janice Dickinson... boring and lacking sparks. Not to mention, the man has the best set of dimples in television.

So, I hope he'll reconsider leaving. Although if he does leave, the man they are looking at to replace him wouldn't be half bad, Andrew Savage from Survivor: Pearl Islands. At least he's been through the game and knowledgeable about the ins and outs; he's just no Jeff. This tribe has spoken.

Out and Proud

Today is National Coming Out Day, so what a better way to celebrate then by running this cool photo of Ms. Diana Ross. Besides her song should be the theme song of the day. Enjoy, my brothers and sisters.

Evolution of the Night

So I caught the second episode of Nightstalker last night and I'm intrigued. I'm trying to keep my television to the bare essentials (Survivor, Top Model, Lost) but something tells me that this show could have legs, given it sticks around for a while. I have to admit, I never saw the original show that this was based on and can't give you an opinion which one is better, but I think both Stuart Townsend and Gabrielle Union keep the show interesting with their top notch acting and good on-screen chemistry. Should be interesting to see how this supernatural show evolves, as we get to know these characters better. So if you haven't given the show a shot, tune in Thursday's at 9.

Marry Me Jayne

Having seen Serenity this past weekend, Adam Baldwin (no relation to Alex or Stephen) qualifies for my Crush of the Week. He oozes charm as Jayne, with his rugged handsome face and quick wit. I cannot think of anyone else I wouldn't mind traveling around the solar system with. I'm still shocked at home amazing he looks, if you can remember back in 1980, he first appeared in the movie My Bodyguard, he could guard me any day.

Having only seen a handful of episodes of the TV show to which Serenity comes from, I was generally impressed with how well the movie flowed whether you had a history with the show or not. Hopefully this will not be the last we see of this hunky space crew.

PS- Runner up Crush of the Week is Nathan Fillion, who plays the handsome captain of the ship.

Too Hot to Handle?

So it appears that the FDNY might be pulling the plug on it's annual Calendar of Heroes, due to the fact that some involved do not believe that our bravest should be featured shirtless and adored as sex symbols. I just cannot believe that someone would be willing to give up $250,000 a year (which is what the calendar raises annually) for the FDNY Fire Safety Education Fund, over the fact that they see this as a tasteless act. I know every time there is a fire drill at my office, many stick around just to watch those brave men show up. These men are sexy and should be appreciated for their beauty, it's not like they are being forced to pose for the calendar. When did this country become so prudish?

We'll Always Have Paris

So what I'm sure does not come to anyone's surprise, my favorite tanorexic heiress is not going to get married. The wedding of Paris Squared is officially over. Paris (the female) was quoted as saying she wasn't ready to give up her career and was two young and didn't want her marriage to end in divorce.

Good for her, but it makes you wonder why she would except the engagement ring if those are her reasons to call off the wedding or maybe there's more to the story then we are privileged to know. Ah, the lives of the rich and famous. But you have to give the girl kudos for not rushing into it and then pulling a Britney and getting annulled a week later.

Blue Crush

So this weekend in movies brings us Into the Blue. Otherwise known as four beautiful divers get into a shitload of trouble while still remaining beautiful. Buried treasure, drug dealers, sharks, and of course not to mention a lot of undressed beautiful people - all under the direction of the man who knows his way around the ocean, John Stockwell, who directed the amazing Blue Crush.

More importantly, it features my celebrity crush of the moment, the stunning Paul Walker. So whether this movie turns out to be The Deep or A Shark's Tale remains to be seen. But visually, I'm betting its stunning.

Blow by Blow

Supermodel Kate Moss (the last remaining model who can still use the moniker) has lost three major campaigns after photos surfaced of her snorting cocaine. What I want to know if how is this a big surprise? Isn't Kate famous because she was the model who ushered in the whole 'heroin chic' look? Drugs (especially cocaine use) has always been a drug of choice in the fashion and modeling industry, isn't Kate just following in a long line of others.

I'm by no means applauding her actions, I just don't see how this could cause someone to loose millions of dollars over. Was she not portraying the level of glamour and beauty required for her job? Was she not professional on her photo shoots? The only thing Kate can be blamed for is being a sloppy user. Whether she likes it or not, people view her as a celebrity and in these tabloid obsessed times celebrities are fair game, there is always someone with a camera (or at least a cell phone with a camera attached) at every turn.

PS- I predict that Kate will bounce back from this and will only make her allure even greater.

Model Behavior

With the fall TV season in full bloom, we are greeted with 13 new hopefully in the running to become America's Next Top Model. Truly my one guilty pleasure all week (Wednesday nights hold a special place in my heart, because of it) and it appears that this group of girls are destined to give us some good drama. Of course, once again, I have immediately been drawn to the larger the life personality of Lisa. Give me a good ole' dose of a beautiful girl with a huge personality and I'm hooked (think Tocarra and Britney from cycle 3 & 4 respectably.)

Next week promises us some radical makeover's or as I like to refer to them, time to start the water works. I can't wait to see the drama unfold as Tyra chops, dyes and weaves some perfection. Let the games begin and let the best girl win.

Up and Running

So the first version of www.danhalm.com is up and running and I'm excited. If you have the chance, please take a look at it and let me know what you think. I'm hoping this finally brings me some much needed attention to my art work. I will say it has re-sparked my drive to kick some ass this season and finally land a gallery to show my work. If you know any galleries that might be interested, please pass on my web site. Much love!

What You Need?

Well, I guess I was completely wrong, Mr. JD Fortune is the new lead singer for INXS. To be completely honest, I'm not sure how I feel about this. Was his ego and attitude all for show? Was he edited to be the villain or was that truly his personality? Will INXS be able to make a successful comeback with JD as their frontman. Only time will tell.

More importantly, I eagerly await to hear what's next for Jordis and Suzie. Both of those women have star qualities and deserve a record contract.

All Hail the Queen

So a sample of Madonna's first single Hung Up is available, as a ring tone. I'm way too excited to hear that Madonna is putting out a kick-ass dance album. Its only a matter of time boys, before we will be dancing to her once again at the Roxy. The queen of the dance floor has returned.

Homeward Bound

So, today I purchased my own little piece of the web, within the next few weeks www.danhalm.com will become a reality. Stay tuned.

Snowball's Chance in Hell

With all the stories from the aftermath of Katrina, comes one that touches my heart. Snowball, a small white dog that was first discussed in an Associated Press article has been reunited with it's owner. The dog was taken from the hands of a sobbing little boy as his family was being removed from the Superdome. The boy was so distraught over this fact that he cried out for his canine companion until he vomited. I can understand his pain. Being a huge animal lover myself, I cannot understand how there no system that allows pet owners to evacuate with their beloved family members. I could never think of leaving behind someone that important to myself, as a dog or cat who unconditionally offers so much of themselves to you.

The good news is that United Animal Nations reports that Snowball is indeed safe and would soon be reunited with the little boy who fought for his dog, his friend, his loved one.

Here's hoping that all misplaced pets are quickly returned home to their owners just as quickly.

Happy, Happy, Happy

So with all my heart, I wish James the best birthday ever. I love you and can't wait to spend time tonight celebrating.

Hey Bub...

So the first set of photographs of Hugh Jackman surfaced on the net today from the set of X-Men 3. As always Mr. Jackman looks amazing. That man has amazing sex appeal, not to mention charisma. It takes an amazing man to bring the character of Wolverine to life and do so with such raw energy and faithfulness to the way the character is perceived in the comic. Keep up the good work Hugh, and looking forward to the Wolverine spin-off film. Two hours alone in a dark room with you sounds like my idea of heaven.

Auction Upon Us

So tomorrow my first piece of art to sell at auction premieres at the inaugural SVA Alumni Auction and I'm excited to see first if it sells and secondly if it sells at a good price. I've been informed that tickets are still available, right up to the event itself.

The event is being held at the Visual Arts Gallery, 601 West 26 Street, 15th floor, 6-9pm with a live auction of some notable artists starting at 7:30pm.

The image above is a detail of my piece "Untitled (Julie)" that is on auction.

Schwarzenegger Veto

As to be expected Arnold Schwarzenegger stated he will veto the bill that would have made California the first state to legalize same-sex marriage through its elected lawmakers. Shame, but can't say I'm overly surprised. I'm just surprised how conservative this country is trying to become.

You can read the full story here.

In the Garden

Things one should never do while leaving a Coldplay concert: text message your friend while walking down five flights of esculators in Madison Square Garden. 'Nough said.

The Best that Money Can Buy

If you happen to have 3.7 million lying around, it appears you too can have Christina Aguilera sing at your wedding. The singer was flown to the south of France on a private jet, with her soon-to-be hubby and put up in a $3,700 a night hotel. Not bad, considering she only had to sing three songs. However, the fun doesn't stop there, after Xtina's set; the bride and groom were serenaded by the likes of Whitney Houston and Julio & Enrique Iglesias. Who has weddings like this? And there has to be a better way to spend it?

Number One with a Bullet

So the Transporter 2 was the number one film at the box office this weekend, over $20 million. This is no doubt due to the fact that we have a bonafide action hero in Jason Statham. The man (who was an Olympic diver) has tremendous presence, grace, and not to mention his handsome face and beautiful body. I'm glad to see that he's being embraced properly, after winning turns in Stock, Lock; Snatch, and Cellular.

About time, he's getting his due.

Bravo, Beanery

Say what you will about Starbucks, but you have to give them props for not bending to some overly religious group of bored losers, otherwise known as the Concerned Women for America (CWA). It appears the CWA have a problem with one of Starbucks cups featuring quotes by distinguished Americans.

The quote in question is as follows:
My only regret about being gay is that I repressed it for so long. I surrendered my youth to the people I feared when I could have been out there loving someone. Don't make that mistake yourself. Life's too damn short. -Armistead Maupin

You see the CWA is concerned that be reading this quote you might be converted to homosexuality. For Christ sakes (sorry, I couldn't help myself) it a friggin' quote on a cup. When did America become such a hate-bed for anyone slightly different then what organizations like the CWA deem normal. This country was founded in pursuit of personal freedoms - you, me and the next guy. So I say go back to your bored, privileged life and stay out of mine. If you can't handle 41 beautiful words, you have bigger issues to deal with. Get a life.

P.S.- Thank you Starbucks for not removing the cups from circulation and issuing the statement, "diversity and treating people with dignity is one of the principles of our corporation." Bravo.