In front, velvet ropes separate the cool from the lukewarm. Inside, VIP sections dictate who gets served his melon-infused martini first - and who gets the most attention.

It's the politics of partying. And Michael Altman believes it has a lot in common with politics in general.

His goal, through an online political journal, is to make government and policy palatable for the same young people you might find at such a club.

Queen City Forum (online at www.queencityforum.com) , is a collaborative effort between Altman, 25, a Hyde Park native, and friend Steve Fritsch, 25, of West Chester.

Twice a month, the two - along with a team of about 10 writers - offer features about issues, political parties and current events, both local and non. Tossed in are lighthearted social columns, links to other news, and columns written by city leaders.

Altman, a legal researcher who wears black Banana Republic duds, is more the liberal of the two. The registered independent speaks with so much passion about politics, he positively quakes.

Fritsch, who works for Key Bank, is more subdued, a light blue shirt and a traditionally patterned tie type. He's conservative to the core, citing talk show host Sean Hannity as an idol.

What they share is a passion for current affairs. So the two devour newspapers and news magazines daily. They spend countless hours on the phone, making connections and discussing future stories. And they work multiple jobs to keep the forum running.

"For me, this is like a second job - one I have to pay for," Fritsch said.

Started in March, Queen City Forum is still evolving. But as the site increases in popularity, getting nearly 100 hits a day now, the quality escalates as well. The next edition will include interviews with Hamilton County Sheriff Simon Leis and Cincinnati Councilmember Laketa Cole. Their society columnist will take a peek at new Over-the-Rhine club Red Cheetah. And a recent addition, a man-on-the-street poll, will be expanded.

All of this, they hope, will catch the attention of a young audience. To inspire somewhat. But mostly to educate.

"Most people our age think about what they want to do on the weekend - not politics," Fritsch said. "That's crazy. There are so many things happening right now that will determine the next 50 years."

They have a tough task ahead of them. Young voters are generally apathetic. In 2000, 64 percent of U.S. citizens between 18 and 30 were registered to vote. Slightly more than 30 percent did.

"Our generation has to take an active role in government, or else Cincinnati will be the same in 20 years as it is now," Fritsch said. "Maybe worse."

Hopefully, efforts like Queen City Forum will catch on. And then just maybe people my age might have a little more to talk about - while we're standing in line at the club.

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E-mail mdowns@enquirer.com