- Gasparro
Michael Doughman of the Dallas Tavern Guild sent the following press release out today regarding Voice of Pride winner Michael Gasparro.
We are sorry to report that due to sudden and personal, unforeseen circumstances, Michael Gasparro, the winner of 2009 Voice of Pride will not be able to fulfill his commitments and has been withdrawn from further participation. This occurrence was not through any fault of Michael’s and he will always be recognized as the winner of Voice of Pride 2009. We mutually agree to release him from his further commitments.
I called Doughman for further word. He stood by the release, however, he did offer this: “Michael was very disappointed. Whatever it was, it was personal enough for him to do this.” What this means for sure is we won’t be performing at the Pride Parade.
I interviewed Gasparro after his win back in August. He was quite gracious and humble during our chat. Hopefully the circumstances, whatever they may be, will iron out and put this talent back on track.
Hmm…..wait for it,….wait for it……
I hope it doesn’t have anything to do with me constantly during down his sexual advances.
I tried to explain to him that since my surgery, there is only so much of this stud meat to go around.
Does he have to return the money?
VERY good question, Kris. As one of the semi-final judges, I was really amazed at Michael’s talent, but so profoundly disappointed in this turn of events. I wish him well in whatever his challenges are but I do think it would be unfair for him to accept the money and then not fulfill the duties.
That is so sad for Michael. He was a great delight to watch on finals night. But I know Julie Jeffries, who was first runner up, will step in and represent our community with all her heart and sole. I’ve watched her compete over the past couple of years and honestly thought it was her year. She will make all us mommas so proud!! CONGRATULATIONS JULIE !!!!!!!
What is the story?
The press release soungs so vague.
It’s only ethical that he return the prize money, which in turn be given to Julie Jeffries. It’s there enough time for her to perform at the Pride events?
He should not have to give any money back. Last years winner Juan Deleon didn’t even show up for the finals this year, or his farewell performance at this years final contest,like he was suppose to and she got to keep her cash. Michael Doughman said Juan was busy in NewYork and could not make it! Well i say too bad give the money back Juan if Michael has to do it.
Michaelangelo
There is a big difference in missing a few obligation and not doing any at all. If Michael wants to make things right, he will return the money or pass it on to the runner-up since the prize money helps to pay for expenses incurred while making appearances.
Michaelangelo,
There is a huge difference in missing a couple of appearances and not being able to make any appearances for the year. He needs to give some of the prize money back since it helps to cover cost and expenses for making these appearances. That portion should be given to the runner-up if they are willing to step in and make these appearances. It should be up to the Dallas Tavern Guild to decide the amount since they know appearance dates and events.
I’m betting this has something to do with going to school at Baylor since they have been known to expel gays who make public appearances at GLBT events.
Rules are rules precious if you allow any one to break even one, than all of the rules go out the glory hole..Rules states all obligations must be met Juan broke those rules to party in New York. If Michael Gasparo is being harass at Baylor university than we should support him not punish him by making him quit school..Besides that he is going to college to be a better person .YOU WOULD RATHER HIM QUIT SCHOOL!! YOUR A DISGRACE TO THE GAY COMMUNITY. If you don’t think Michael Gasparo is not crying his eyes out right now your just another heartless queeeeen!
Whoa dude! I was just speculating that could be the cause of his withdrawl. At no point did I suggest he needed to drop out of school. Take a Prozac honey and calm down. I will absolutely agree that everyone needs to do there best to better themself and I am glad to see he is in school. If Baylor or his speculation, given Baylor’s actions in the past, that this could become an issue for graduating, then he is making the right choice.
If you want to have meaningful discussions on this message board, it would behove you to post and reply to correct Information before you start with the name calling. It would makes you appear foolish when you do not.
I would just like to make it clear that I did not leave for New York to party…I was in a professional training program called The Seagle Music Colony for young opera singers. I fulfilled the two major commitments required to earn the prize money (riding in the parade and performing at the rally). As for not being here for the finals night I did make appearances at several other functions that were voluntary not mandatory as well as several of this years rounds. Thanks…I just wanted that to be clear.