Tom Lynch

Deborah from ABC is already caked with makeup when she whispers, "Jen is coming. She'll be here around 6:30."

The upstairs of Rockit Bar and Grill smells like a zoo of cologne, as muscles and black shirts fill out their applications to be the next TV groom. Jen Schefft, of Andrew Firestone and "Bachelor" fame, is set as the third "Bachelorette," since the Firestone flame burned out shortly after the romantic engagement. Young gentlemen, fresh from work or fresh out of the shower, furiously pen their paper applications. Some do shots from the bar, while others mingle with friends they've forced along into competition. There's enough hair gel to stiffen the sea.

Schefft arrives, as expected, but early. The ABC cameraman rushes to get a shot of her as she strides through the bar, in a pink sleeveless top and jeans, with carefully streaked blond hair. The crowd first looks in confusion and then in amazement as she disappears into the back interview area. "You guys here for `The Bachelorette?'" the security guard asks a group as they approach. "Hey buddy, you know it," says their leader as he nods in confidence to his brotherhood.

The camera follows Schefft around the room as she talks to the applicants, while a photographer takes snapshots. "What will you do for Jen?" is the common question, often replied with, "Whatever she wants." Some questions from the application come to mind, but most strikingly, "Have you ever had a temporary restraining order issued against you?"

(2004-08-25)

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