Hey, here's a great interview with Dan Vickery. As always, Fu for Thought, who conducts weekly interviews with the most recently "canceled" finalist, she does a great job pulling out some interesting tidbits. Check it out.

Also, voting ends TODAY at 5 p.m. Eastern time. That's 3 p.m. in Mountain time and 2 p.m. in the Pacific time zone. So don't delay if you want Dan Vickery to have his own online show for HGTV.

Here's the link to vote for your favorite Design Star. Voting ends at 3 p.m. Mountain Time Tuesday.

Vickie Holbrook - 2:38 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

Want to catch up on what everyone is saying? Here are the links I posted Monday. And here are Dan's comments after Sunday's show when the winner was revealed.

And, I thought I'd share the comments that many readers have left for Dan on my blog. He certainly impressed many people.

"Dan, first let me offer my condolences on the passing of your beloved grandfather. It's amazing to me that you performed so beautifully in the final challenge, even while bearing that burden of grief, which your viewers never saw. What a true professional you are! Like many other HGTV fans, I am sorely disappointed that you are not the next Design Star. Your designs were clearly better than Antonio's in every way and your on-screen hosting was wonderful, giggles and all! I personally loved the giggle and thought it made you so endearing. Apparently, I'm not the only one who adored you and your designs, as there are thousands of angry fans expressing their outrage at the HGTV blogs, and I was one of them! I've also been voting for you every day as the fan favorite, and I'm sure many others are, too, so I hope you'll win the online show. If the HGTV execs are smart, they'll give you an on-air show, too! In any case, I hope to see your handsome, smiling face and your beautiful, elegant designs on TV again real soon. Much love and many blessings for a long and successful career. Dan's the Man! :)

Cee618 - 12:30 AM, Tuesday September 15, 2009

"Dan, I knew you were the champion since the white room challenge. I feel you have a true designer concept, and you're not a gimmick. Everyone knows that you will find success from this adventure, and that it is well deserved. Not only are you a fantastic designer - but you seem like a truly great, honest, and genuinely kind person. I have voted for you online, and will do so again. We wish you all the best - "a Dan fan"!

Jennifer D - 10:54 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"I wish HGTV would post a public pole asking who the viewing audience would like to watch on tv. I would really appreciate it if they would give Dan the tv show he earned :)

Beth - 9:48 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"DAN is clearly America's choice by a longshot. With their recent (and obvious) edict to stir things up with conflict, melodrama, and overly-aggressive TV "hosts", HGTV, from Vern Yip up through the ranks to the top executives, have made an epic blunder in giving the Soprano guy a thumbs up. Not out of spite or "sour grapes", but because I dislike the other guy's personality, and fail to see his design talent, I would not allow him into my home, much less choose to see his mug on my TV screen. Sadly, the direction that HGTV has chosen, moving towards tabloid-style programming, will limit my viewing to the few remaining shows that still combine quality entertainment and useful information. DAN, YOU ARE THE TRUE WINNER, and now you are free to move forward to secure your place not only in the world of design, but in the hearts and minds of millions.

DesignABCs - 9:30 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Dan, Dan, Dan. I could not sleep last night after seeing Antonio win. What a joke. Not only were your designs FAR superior to anything he did, but your personality, your intelligence, your laughter, your everything was like comparing the ocean to a mud puddle. HGTV really messed up with this & I know it has caused a permanent rift between many devoted viewers & them. Thankfully you seem to recognize that this was a cheap reality-TV trick & no reflection on your abilities. As you can tell from the irate comments being posted on HGTV's blog, 90% of viewers are not simply disappointed, they are furious at the outcome. On another note, I was saddened to hear of your grandfather's passing, esp. at such a critical time. I lost my precious Mom a short time ago & I know the pain. Dan, you are an absolutely amazing person and I hope somehow this experience ends up opening doors for you that will far surpass your wildest imagination. When my husband saw my face last night, he knew instantly that Antonio had won. I sarcastically said "I wonder what places they'll have him designing?" & my hubby said "oh, cemeteries, courtrooms, and bars." Sounds about right to me. Big hugs, Dan. In spite of what the powers to be at HGTV decided, you WERE the winner. Your designs were absolutely breathtaking.

dana - 4:40 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Dan, Babe (altho not a babe), we love you. wish i was there to give you and your family a big ol'Texas hug. I was rottin for you all along and will be voting for you today and tomorrow After the shaow last nite i was so upset and was crying for you because of your "pain of losing".but you made lemonade from lemons.I was up until 3am so upset. but life goes on.i wish you all the success in life..God Bless Your Real Good.i am praying for you,babe.I think you were "robbed".You are a wonderful person,Dan.Love ya,kid !!

Butch Rulfs - 2:42 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"The judges were wrong!!! Dan is the winner. Is it true that he could have his own show if voted the best by us (on-line viewers)??? Where do we vote??? Nan - 2:30 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"I hope Dan reads the overwhelmingly negative response to the judges decision on the HGTV Design Star blogs - some small consolation at least for the person whose designs were consistently clearly superior. He should have won.

Star - 1:20 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Though I wanted Dan to win, I knew Antonio was going to win. When I heard that they were having the judges make the final decision, I knew that HGTV wanted to be able to control who won. And as I watched, it was clear that Antonion was the most anti-HGTV guy and that he would probably win if he had any talent at all. If the "people" could have chose, Dan definitely WOULD have won. And I'm sure he will win the online show. He's the best!

Kathy - 12:31 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Dan, My heart was pounding as I waited for the judges decision, when I heard I was in disbelief, tears welled up in my eyes. You were clearly the winner. I will not be watching Antiono's show as I am not into biker dude types,I'm a great grand ma and I seriously doubt that very few if any people my age will be watching him.I love your the boy next door persona, and the way you listen to and execute the design that the client wants. I'm so glad to hear you and Lonni are good friends. I also got it when Torie told you she was giving you 10k in the van and Antonio made a comment on the 10k. Just know there are thousands of us out here that know you are not dishonest, and I will continue to vote for you until the end. I'm so sorry to hear about your grandpa, I'm sure he is smiling down on you, and saying job well done. Good luck, and I'm pulling for you.

Linda L. - 12:27 PM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Dan, you did your grandfather and family proud! I would have moved into the Goldberg home in a New York minute! It was so calm and serene...the perfect place to come home to. Good luck in your future endeavors.

Andrea - 11:49 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Dan, You by far were the winner in my book. I know that if I hired you to design a room (or a house for that matter) for me, I could trust you with it and know that your ultimate goal would be to give me what would please me and my family, with class and with style, not what was edgy or 'close to offensive'. You are the real design star and my prayers are with you for a successful future.

Mel - 10:55 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"I was stunned when the announcement was made that Antonio had won. I can't believe that his image is going to attract many hgtv viewers. Dan's the man! I hope Dan's recent exposure, contacts and future career choices bring him amazing success. I know things usually work out for a reason--so it makes me wonder if Dan's not meant for a bigger career than hgtv could have given him...??? I hope he'll explore ALL his options and think outside the box! The camera loves him, the audience loves him and we love him in Kansas!!!

Jeff in Kansas - 9:13 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Dan, I am sure you are right, we will see your face again on tv, maybe even HGTV. They'de be even more foolish than they are behaving presently to let you get away. About a week ago I wrote in your aunt's blog and since that time took the opportunity to read a few more articles about the competition, several by Lonni. I am sad to realize how much I was manipulated by film editing. As more of the actual contents of the different challenges came to my attention, the more aware I have become of feeling slightly deceived by certain forces at HGTV. I am sure it cannot be all of them, at least I hope not. I can tell from your comments and designs, that although you are only 26, as well as being a superior designer, you also have a keenly defined sense about people, which was more than apparent in your beautiful, thoughtful and ingenious design for the sweet ladies. I am guessing you get the big picture of the what some at HGTV have tried to create in this contest for "entertainment's" sake. I think it will backfire on them. The irony is that they have educated us all so well in great design and its execution with people like, Candice, Vern, John G., Lee S., Lisa La., David B. that we KNOW and RESPECT good design when we see it, and we also KNOW when we've been had. YOU BELONG IN THE GROUP ABOVE, and don't let anyone convince you otherwise. Nothing against Antonio, he's his own guy, he's his own style, and he won their type of "competition", but you won ours. If you doubt me, read the HGTV blogs. Congratulations,and the LORD heap your rewards upon you. YOU'RE the people's winner. Many blessings!!!

Suzanne - 8:39 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Hey, Dan, Just wanted to let you know that I was rooting for you to win from the first episode. I am literally sick at heart about the results of Design Star. You were robbed. Your designs were beautiful and practical and inspiring...and you listened to the homeowners and gave them personalized touches in a space they'll love for years to come. Your white room challenge WAS the absolute best I've seen during 4 years of Design Star. Obviously, the network had already decided to choose Antonio before the competition even began (heaven only knows why) and nothing you could've done would have changed the outcome. I would have watched your show and learned so much about design, and I'm sad for the missed opportunity. I most certainly won't be watching "Hey, Yo, Wassup... Let's Trash Dis House," with Antonio. (And if the flaming message boards at HGTV right now are any indication, neither will 9 out of 10 of their very irate audience.) I don't understand why HGTV thinks rude and incoherent is "refreshing." I know you'll go on to have a long and very successful career, because you have true talent and are a kind, generous & caring individual. Best of luck from a fellow Portlander, and sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Grandpa.

Di - 1:52 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"I was so shocked at the outcome, I thought for sure it would go the other way. Dan your designs are beautiful and I would be glad to watch any show you hosted, you can be proud of all you did on the show.

istersay - 1:44 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Congratulations Dan You did an excellent job made to lovely ladies very happy and gave america great joy watching you. You are now and always will be a Design Star!! There is a right place for you in the design world and you will soon be there and you will know its right for YOU!! Just like the lady said on yur reveal tonight "it will feel like home" Love and Prayers for your success you made it a joyful ride!!! Jeani Metcalf

Jeani Metcalf - 1:15 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Hi Dan, Bethiekc here. So disappointed you didn't win and hope HGTV comes to realize you have a serious fan base that want to see you have your own show. You should see the blogs on HGTV website! Best of Luck to you and your family and so sorry for the loss of your Grandfather. GB/GL and look forward to seeing more of you and your successful designs in the future.

Beth - 12:56 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Well, I have commented on HGTV's blog. I saw a link for this recently released article and I had to leave my two cents again. Dan, you're amazing. Your room for the Priestly's was stunnng, and I hate nautical rooms... and blue for that matter! It almost made me want to adopt a baby boy and hire you to recreate your room in my house. Almost. I was glad to read that you're optimistic about your chances with HGTV, but I'd encourage you to look outside of a network that has twice dropped the ball, in regards to you. Why should they get to profit from you? We'll follow you no matter which network YOU CHOOSE to work for. After they read the scathing comments left at HGTV I think you'll be getting some intriguing offers from previously untapped sources. Good luck with your no doubt brilliant career. We all love you! ---Keith p.s. I loved the bed you designed for the girl's room tonight. I may have to adopt a girl her age too!

Keith Lukowski - 12:31 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Dan, I was rooting for you the whole way. Your white room challenge design was fantastic as were many other design solutions you came up with. I'm so sorry about your grandfather, and how tough that you had to do the final challenge with that grief. I certainly don't understand the judges decision as I thought both you and Lonnie were far, far better than Antonio, who rubbed many of us the wrong way... just read the comments on HGTV's website. I'm sure that if viewers had voted for the winner as in past seasons, you would have won. I'd love to see a show starring you and Lonnie, that would be fun. I won't be watching Antonio's show, that's for sure. And as an Oregonian (currently in Bend), I'm so proud of you... in fact, we go through Vale every time we visit our son in Boise. You've got to be the most famous person from Vale now! Good luck, and I'm voting for you online. -Cleo

Cleo - 12:09 AM, Monday September 14, 2009

"Dan, you did an excellent job and had really appealing designs for the duration of the show and certainly deserved to win in my opinion. You have every right to be proud of your achievements and keep up the excellent work. Also, never lose that laugh. It's great and contagious. :-) Best of luck to you. Also, I am sorry to hear about your grandfather. My condolences to you and your family.

Lance - 11:19 PM, Sunday September 13, 2009

"Enjoyed each episode of this year's DESIGNSTAR... however, I had planned to watch it tonight- in another hour here in Arizona, and I just read THIS- that ANTONIO was the winner- prior to the show being aired HERE.... hmmm All 4 of the finalists did some outstanding work....and they all made some mistakes along the way, as they are all human! Grace under pressure- working when one is exhausted and in the spotlight is never easy.... you FINAL FOUR should all take a bow! Great show- HGTV.... AUNT VICKIE__ wish I could have seen the last show before I read your blog, kiddo```- but-- oh wellllllllll

Vicki Sheley - 10:55 PM, Sunday September 13, 2009

"This is truly crazy to me that Dan didn't win, simply because I had faith that HGTV had better taste than they apparently do! I'm glad to see that he's staying so upbeat, though, because his good humor and ability to handle such hardships will be able to get him through his dreams. Even with his grandfather's death, he managed to 'suck it up' and try to hold out for at least the rest of the challenge. And that's AMAZING. Dan: Thank you, good job, and good luck.

Diana - 10:45 PM, Sunday September 13, 2009

"Vickie, thatnks so much for keeping us all up on the current events with Dan... I realize it is all filmed way in advance but it is still a big let down tonight. Well, hopefully this means online show (or even better!) will be in near future for Dan... All the best from designer in south Texas, Rick Shuster

RickS - 10:40 PM, Sunday September 13, 2009

"Dan, I've been rooting for you all season and voting for you all season, so I can only hope that you win the Online show because I will watch every single episode! You totally deserve it after trying for *two seasons* to win - one can't help but respect you for that. Congratulations on getting so far while remaining an honest person. From Jennifer in Columbus, Ohio. :)

Jennifer - 10:40 PM, Sunday September 13, 2009