D2M TAKES A STAND  1/11/07

  With the season-opening event only weeks away, fans of the Hogan Circuit have been abuzz over the dawn of a new beach volleyball season. But the most significant outbursts have come from the groupies of Dylan himself, who recently announced a campaign to bring the namesake to South Beach for the 2007 Miami Open, sponsored by The Clevelander.

  Aside from the traditional letter-writing campaign (correspondence has flooded the offices of Kip Henry), the organization known as D2M, or "Dylan to Miami", has also enlisted former volleyball great Steve Timmons as part of their alliance.

   "I know that Dylan wants to be in Miami," said Timmons, whose caricature is emblazoned on the only volleyball that Dylan owns, a 1993 Redsand classic stitch. "Even though he's got many priorities, I know that he needs this time to fulfill his quota for the spring. After that, he returns to the watchful eye of his charming and generous bride, Patsy."

   Timmons has been touring parts of Michigan in support of Hogan's chances at South Beach, including a stopover at Stonycroft Hills Club, where Timmons rubbed elbows with the locals.

   "I know I'd like to see Hogan down there," said Clarisse Bellomy, 41, of Bloomfield Hills. "He seems like he could use the male-bonding and the comradery. And he's awfully white - the sun would help, too."

   The D2M members have also organized a petition with as many as 140 signatures, though many are somewhat illegible.

   "It just won't be the same without Hogan for a second year in a row," says Timmons. "The tour needs Dylan Hogan - and Dylan Hogan needs the tour!"