Israel's Nathan Shaked Wins Mr. Gay 2007

PALM SPRING, CA (U.S. Newswire) -- For second year in a row the desert community of Palm Springs hosted the International Mr. Gay Competition, selecting Israel's Nathan Shaked to assume the title of the Mr. Gay Competition 2007 from last year's winner Jesse Bashem of the U.S.A.

The event, hosted by Bruce Vilanch, doubled in size this year to include a Friday night competition of 19 American cities. Winning the Mr. U.S.A. title was Sacramento's Grant Ermis, who moved on to the Saturday International event that included representatives from: Australia, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Lichtenstein, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Sweden, Vatican City and Mexico.

U.S.A's Grant Ermis was the first runner up and Netherlands' Joep Mesman took the second runner up slot in the international competition.

On the title for Mr. Congeniality was awarded to the Philippines' Robert Tarroza, when fellow contestants, each with two roses, handed off one of those roses to the man of their choice.

Mr. Anchorage, Jared Watson, was awarded Mr. Congeniality in the same manner during the U.S. competition, the night prior.

"Competitions such as these have been popular in Europe for years and we're thrilled to now have a U.S. based component looking for the 'boy next door' to represent the broader gay community," said Producer Don Spradlin. "The winner will serve as a spokesman to raise the visibility of gay men, confront homophobia, and create a positive role model in his travels around the world."

Unlike last's year's cliffhanger decision, where a second round of judging was needed to break a tie, the judges this year were united in their decision.

Some of the prizes for Mr. Israel include a modeling contract, a Caribbean cruise and a trip to Puerto Vallarta.