2016 Olympic proposals, but no Erasure! Chicago was one of 5 American cities that offered proposals this week to become the USA's 2016 Olympic bid. What will either appeal or turn-off the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is the unprecedented idea of having Opening and Closing Ceremonies in two different stadiums, Chicago Bears Soldier Field and a 80,000-seat temporary track stadium just south of there.

A walkway would connect the two venues and allow for a greater number of spectators to watch the two most revenue generating Olympic events.

"Currently, such an idea would not be compatible with Games operations," IOC spokeswoman Giselle Davies said. "However, the IOC is always open to ideas and proposals, which, if made, would be discussed and studied." Hmm, doesn't sound very hopeful.

Full details of Chicago's proposal can be found here.

The United States Olympic Committee (USOC) has already confirmed that it will submit an American city nominee. The other cities were Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston and Philadelphia, but Chicago remains the media's favourite. Other likely international candidates include Madrid, Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo or Fukuoka (where Wyn is now), Berlin or Hamburg and Moscow.

Meanwhile this weekend sees the beginning of the Gay Games VII in Chicago. The 7-day event will open at Soldier Field on Saturday, with "British pop superstar Andy Bell" performing, and will close a week later at Wrigley Field. 12,000 athletes will compete in 30 events including 'soccer/football.' at various venues across the city.

Despite a large gay population in the city the event caused initial angst from some local communties and protests are expected from do-gooder Christian groups, however the Games has received over $10m in corporate sponsorship.

Regrettably I have given up my place in the egg and spoon as I will be out of town next week!  ¶ 03:22