Folsom Street - San Francisco

Good Evening Everyone,

Folsom Street in San Francisco was an incredible time. I flew in on Thursday. When I got to the Dallas Airport, I was text messaging with Master John, who was flying into San Francisco through Dallas from Ft. Lauderdale. Turns out, his connection flight in Dallas was my flight, so we worked the ticket agent and were able to get three seats together for the trip AND free drinks! The three of us had the best time flying into SFO, and I don’t ever remember a shorter flight (time flies when you’re having a great time!!) Once in San Francisco, I ran for a bite to eat with Master John down on the wharf.

As always, I enjoyed spending some one-on-one time with Master John and getting to know even more about his history. Incredible man, to say the least. Afterwards, we took a cab ride from hell (I was getting seasick the cab driver was driving so fast up and down those hills) to Mr. S Leather. We did a little shopping and then we parted so I could go have dinner with Bob. Bob and I had a great time at dinner and it was wonderful getting to know him and learn about his journey. Sincere young man with a heart of gold. Truly an honor to have met him and had dinner. I then met up with Master John and Alan for drinks at Chaps and then the Powerhouse. Met up with Matt at Chaps and it was great to see him and spend some time with him. He looks great and he was promoting the release of his new video. That reminds me, I need to contact him as he has a copy for me! Had a great time, but I knew I needed to make it an early evening, as my time to rest during the weekend would be limited.

Friday began with brunch at Sears (not the retail store) with Master John and Alan. Incredible food!!! I was full to say the least! It is here that Master John presented me a t-shirt that had a photo of the Golden Girls (from the sitcom) on it with the words, “Stay Golden”. Hilarious! (Most of you know I am a huge Golden Girl fan!) The t-shirt however, had multiple meanings, I’m sure. . . We then took a cab to Mr. S Leather, Stompers, and Off-Ramp Leathers, as well as many other leather shops. The cab ride was actually nice; I did not get seasick this time. Master John bought plenty of new custom leather!! I can’t wait to see it all on him at ILSb!! We decided to go with yellow piping . . . I then ran down to see Brian and Rick, as they had just checked into their hotel. Talk about a sight for sore eyes. Always good to see them!

I then headed back to the hotel to wait on Randy’s arrival from Los Angeles. His flight was delayed (hey, it happens to other people, too!). Eventually, he did get into town and to the hotel. Very nice to finally be able to see him. It’s been since ABW in New Orleans that I had seen him. Once he got in, he cleaned up and we headed to the SF Eagle. Once there, we were able to catch up with everyone else that was in town. I cannot even begin to start listing everyone I saw. It was great though. There was only one thing that would have made it perfect – my husband, David, being there. Unfortunately, he could not make it.

Master John did buy some gauntlets for me from Off Ramp Leather that evening. There are incredible!! Absolutely love them! Thank you Master John!!

Friday night ended with two hotdogs from a vendor on the street. I don’t know about y’all, but there is nothing better than a hotdog from a street vendor at 2 in the morning! Okay, maybe there are better things on the street at 2 a.m. in SF, but when you are hungry, there isn’t!

Saturday started with brunch at Dim Sum’s, or Ding Sim, or Ding Dong, or something like that (I truly cannot remember) with Brian and Rick, Dr. Larry and William, Randy, Brandon, and Dave Rhodes. The food was very good and the company was great. We then headed to the Castro. We piled into the Edge and had a few drinks. That is where we ran into George Hester, George Wong, Frank and Lenny, Alex and Loren, and many others. (Photo’s of all of these events can be found at http://www.flickr.com/iml2009.) We then went back to the hotel and got ready for the evening. Then it was off to Joe Gallagher’s shop for a reception. It’s always good to see Joe and, again, was nice to speak with everyone, meet new friends and catch up with old ones. We then headed to the SF Eagle. Had a great time, as always. Gary works there and he is an incredible man. Make sure when you go to the SF Eagle to ask for Gary and have him serve you. He will treat you very well!

Sunday was the day of Folsom Fair. Funny story. As we were standing on the curb waiting for Lenny and Frank to pick us up, this intoxicated man came up to speak with Randy and I. Randy introduced me to him as International Mr. Leather. The guy says, “Wow! Mr. Intellect. I’m honored.” I just let it be.

The day started with a brunch at Donna Satchet's home. Frank and Lenny picked Randy and I up and brought us to the brunch. It was an incredible event and thank you, Donna, for welcoming us into your home, yet again. There was one notable difference this year and it was knowing that Mr. Marcus was not there to join us; however, we raised our glasses to you Mr. Marcus, so get better and get back out there!! We miss you terribly!

Then it was off to the fair. Holy crap! I was hot, as in temperature hot. I was in CHP gear and I was sweating my freakin’ balls off! However, we were doing the titleholder presentations on stage and I wanted to be in full leather for the presentation. Lamalani was there, and I so miss my sash-wife. But she had just as full a schedule as I did for Folsom, so our paths did not cross too often. However, we did the titleholder announcements together. We announced the titleholders from across America and had a great representation from all everywhere. Thank you to everyone present. Your continued support and the giving of your time and energy is appreciated by each of us within the community. And a bigger thank you to the partners of any of the titleholders. We could never do what we do unless we had your undivided support!

Then it was off to the hotel room to get out of all that leather and put on something more reasonable – as in a jock and chaps! Much cooler! Randy stayed with me the entire day, and made sure that I was hydrated and taken care of. Thank you, Randy!! We then had to get back to the International Mr. Leather booth at the fair. It was like swimming upstream, as the crowd was heavy. And, of course, it’s like being a kid in the candy store – and there was lots of candy – everywhere. Eventually, we did make it to the booth. Lots of photos were taken. Thank you RJ for working so hard to have the logistics of the booth run smoothly. It was awesome seeing you, too!!

After the fair, we walked down to the SF Eagle. We got there just in time, for we walked in and the crowd hadn’t made it down to the bar yet. It was here that I was able to spend a lot of time with Terry, International Mr. Deaf Leather 2009. What an amazing man! He was so incredible. He spent so much time teaching me various signs, and speaking to me about the deaf culture. I now know how to sign “mental bitch”. Hey! I have to learn the important signs first! That and “Where is the restroom”. I am now able to pee and talk about someone. Life is good. Thank you, Terry!!

We then left SF Eagle and headed to the party that Rick and Brian were having above Chaps. Unfortunately, Dr. Larry, William, Terry, Randy and I walked into the wrong home and thus the wrong party. We just walked in and looked for alcohol, before realizing it was the wrong party. Oh well, they should have had someone working the door. . . Eventually, we found the correct party. We stayed there for a while. Then Dr. Larry, William, Randy and I cleaned up and went to dinner. Thank you Dr. Larry and William for the great dinner and conversation. Then it was back to the SF Eagle. It was pretty calm at this point; as the night was winding down. So it was the perfect ending to a very busy day.

Monday started with breakfast with Loren and Alex. I so enjoy my time with them. They are both amazing and believe it or not, they each have a current title. I know it’s hard enough with one titleholder in the family, so my hat off to them for being able to swing two titles simultaneously.

Then Alex, Loren, Rick, Brian, Randy and I went to visit with Mr. Marcus. I’ll blog about the visit at a later time; however, one of the most hilarious things about the visit was when Randy told Mr. Marcus about calling me “I-Hop” and how the nickname came about. When we were leaving, Mr. Marcus and I hugged goodbye and he said, “Good to see you, I- (comedic pause) Yatollah.” I about peed my pants! He said it knowing good and well what he was saying and he was making sure that everyone in that room knew that he would not be outdone in nicknaming me. I now have the nicknames, “IML, I-HOP, Mr. Intellect, I-Boo, I-Poop (don’t ask), and now, I-Yatollah”. Anyone else want to add one to the pile?

That evening, Randy and I went to dinner with Bob. We had Afghan food. Randy loves it; however, I am not the biggest fan of it. I had never eaten it before, and I’m not sure when I’ll line up to eat it again. It’s just not my favorite. But the conversation was great and it was so good to send some additional time with Bob. Afterwards, Randy headed to the airport and headed home to L.A.

That evening, I stayed in and watched Steele Magnolias. I feel asleep and returned home on Tuesday.

In summary: A great time!! This was the second year in a row that I had been to Folsom Fair. Last year I went as a "jock and boot wearing non-titleholder". This year I went as a "jock and boot wearing titleholder". The more things change – the more they stay the same! Next year: I’m thinking I’ll wear a jock and boots. Hey, it works for me!

Next up: Provincetown for Mates Leather Weekend.

Your Leather Brother,

Jeffrey

Dallas Pride Weekend

Good Evening Everyone,

This past weekend was Dallas Pride. We had an incredible time. Sir Jason and Master John flew in from Ft. Lauderdale and boy jason (Sir Jason's boy) flew in from his business trip in San Antonio. It was great having them visit and stay with us. Also, Lowell & Elliott from Houston came in; however, they stayed at a hotel, due to limitations in how many folks our home can hold.

The weekend start on Friday evening once everyone had flown in. We, along with boy adam, went to Sal's Pizza for dinner and then to the Eagle and the Round-Up. It was just a relaxing evening. I did get to two-step with my husband for one dance, which I always enjoy. It'll also be the last time I get to do that until December!

On Saturday we got up and went to the Kinky Karnival held at the Dallas Eagle during the afternoon. David worked with Leather Knights and sold hotdogs and hamburgers and I worked the dunking booth, as in, I got in it and got dunked. Who knew so many leather men and women could throw a softball with such good aim . . . LOL

That evening, we headed back to the Eagle and had a great time. It was my first time in town for a while, so I got to catch up with friends and let them see that I was okay and alive!

Sunday was the parade. I was able to ride in John and Kevin's new Infinite and DAMN it's a great vehicle! Leather Knights supported and walked with me, as well as other friends of mine. My husband, David, and friends, Lowell and Elliott, carried the IML sign and looked damn good doing it!! We threw beads and 'facial towels' (aka: cum towels) to the crowd with the IML 2009 logo on it. Had a fantastic time! The crowds were enthusiastic and large in numbers. It's always an incredible experience to feel and hear them celebrate Pride!!

Sunday evening we went to John and Kevin's home and relaxed in the pool. After a day of wearing leather in the hot sun, it was nice to strip down to nothing and jump in a pool!

A special thanks to my club brothers in Leather Knights for supporting and walking with me. To my out of town friends (Master John, Sir Jason, Billy , Lowell, Elliott and boy jason) that joined us and walked to help celebrate not just Dallas Pride, but Gay Pride! To boy adam for being the official photographer before, during and after the parade for me. To John and Kevin and letting me use their beautiful car to ride in. And to the men and women of Dallas! Thank you for helping make this an incredible experience!

Okay, I won't be in Dallas for another weekend until the first weekend in December when I hand over my Mr. Dallas Eagle title. Lot's of travel is in front of me! Look for me in a city near you and make sure to come talk to me if you see me!

Your Leather Brother,

Jeffrey

Photo's can be found at www.flickr.com/iml2009

Website (Travel Calendar, IML Information) at www.IML2009.com

Mr. Houston Leather and the Misfits Ball

Good Evening Everyone,

This past weekend started with my driving to Houston. I actually drove, so there was no possibility for flight delays! David was able to go with me! I love any trip that involves my husband!! Also, our friend Jason (Piggy Boo) drove in from San Antonio to spend the weekend with us and the leather community in Houston.

Friday night we had dinner with many members of the leather community. Bob, owner of Black Hawk Leather, was gracious enough to provide the dinner and it was a great start to what would prove to be an incredible weekend! We then headed over to the Ripcord for the Meet & Greet with the two contestants vying for the Mr. Houston Leather title. Had a great time seeing so many of our friends and it was great to also meet so many people in the community that David has known for years; however, I had not been able to meet them yet.

Saturday we held the interviews for the two contestants in the afternoon. Both contestants did a superb job during the interviews. Both are rather new to the leather community; however, they showed an eagerness to learn and entrench themselves into our community.

Then the fun really began! We went back to the room and took a nap! LOL I still have not adjusted to and then from the time difference of going to Berlin last week. It's amazing what an eight hour difference can do to your sleep patterns. But then we got up, ate dinner, and went to the contest. It was a great contest and the crowd was awesome. I did give a speech and the community raised $600 for my travel fund by auctioning off a basket donated by Bob at Black Hawk Leather. Wow! David and I were blown away from the generosity shown to us by the community. Thank you so much. And know that your contributions will actually be split between the Leather Archives and Museum (Change the Past Campaign), NCSF (National Coalition for Sexual Freedom) and the SSC Fund (Hearing from the Heart Program). David and I have always felt we were blessed by our community and we have to continue to pay it forward. But again, thank you to the entire Houston Leather Community!

The contest was fun! Congratulations to Duke, 2009 Mr. Houston Leather. I know you will represent the title and community with dignity and honor.

A special thank you to Robert. Robert was one of the emcees and interpreted for me. Y'all know me and I always push for interpreters, not just for me, but for all those that are in need of the service. It should always be a staple in producing a contest or having any type of event.

Sunday morning we went for Brunch with many men of the Houston Leather Community, and a huge thank you to Chris for treating all of us to one of the best brunches I've had in a long time. Excellent food!!! And the company was second to none!

Then Sunday late-afternoon and evening, we attended the Misfits Ball. That was a great event! They raised over $11,000 for the various charities they support! Awesome job to all of them!! They did auction my jock off; which was an incredible amount of fun. The attendance was tremendous, and David, Jason and I had an incredible time!!

This week is Dallas Pride Week and the parade is on Sunday. It is my last weekend home until the Mr. Dallas Eagle 2010 contest the first weekend in December. If you can make it out to the Parade or the Eagle this weekend, please make sure to say hello! I'd love to see all of you!!

Your Leather Brother,

Jeffrey

Folsom Europe - Berlin, Germany

Good Evening Everyone!

Berlin was my first trip outside of the country (unless you count Vancouver) ever! David and I left early last week so we could spend some time in the city, touring the museums, site-seeing, etc.

I won't even go into the drama that ensued with American Airlines on the trip over there. It is what it is; I've let go of it! However, when we finally got to Berlin (36 hours late), we checked into the Westin Grand Hotel and it was beautiful! Their Heavenly Beds (that's the brand) are to DIE for!! Unfortunately, with the time difference, I was not able to sleep for any amount of time worth mentioning. My sleep schedule was totally screwed up. However, that did not stop us from touring the city. The hotel was right smack in the middle of "tourist" central. So I loaded up the camera and Bear and David and we headed out to see Berlin. Our first stop was the Holocaust Museum. Incredible; moving; left me speechless. Simple in design; however, even in it's simple design, it made the most incredible impression on me. And across the street from it was the memorial to the homosexuals that lost their lives during the same time due to their being gay. Unfortunately, it has been vandalized a few times, but it is still up and it was great to see it! We then walked over to the American Embassy - nothing to report there. But over the next couple of days we saw The Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, The Berliner Cathedral, The Altes Museum by Schinkel, The Marienkirche, The Red Town Hall, The World Clock, the Konzerthaus and Franzosicher Dom, the Alte Bibliothok at Beblplatz, The Humbolt University, the Reichstag, and the Siegessaule. (And if I mispelled anything, I'm sorry.) We walked everywhere we went and needless to say, it was alot of walking!!! But I would not have done it any other way.

Oh, and for those of you who want to know: There is a Starbucks on every corner in Berlin, too!

Thursday evening we had the official opening reception for Folsom Europe. This is where we finally were able to meet all of the organizers for the event. It was held at the The Axel Hotel (which is the hotel David and I moved to on Friday so we could be right beside the street fair on Saturday and near the bars). We had a great time, and the picture posted here is of myself, Rauf (Mr. Europe Leather), Kitty (manager of the Axel Hotel), Frank Casper (German Mr. Leather) and Stefan Casper (Mr. Fetish NRW).

On Friday, we were able to tour some more and we actually went on the "Leather Tour Bus". We visited many of the same sights we had already visited; however, what was so fun about it was the fact that we got to sit in front of Donal and Jack and spend some time together. (Photo inset).

On Friday evening, was the Perverts Party; however, we didn't stay long and ended up back at the local bar and had a great time there.

Saturday was the street fair. The weather was a tad on the cool side; however, David and I thought it was wonderful. It was a welcomed relief from the Texas weather! So David and I threw on our chaps, jock and vest and headed out the door. For the most part, everyone pretty much wore alot of leather. We were surprised by that; however, by no means take it as we were disappointed. Good looking men were EVERYWHERE! The battery on my camera went dead I was taking so many photos! You can view many of the photos from the fair (that we took) at www.flickr.com/iml2009. The organizers of the event did a fantastic job at putting the fair on and it was a hot mess! (In the south, a "hot mess" is a huge compliment!!) I also had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Deaf Leather Germany, Rachid El Ouaghli. He is a terrific man and I wish him and his future husband, Branko, all the best in their upcoming marriage happening in October!!

Saturday evening we had dinner with Frank. Tim also joined us. Tim was the official photographer for Folsom Europe. Later that evening was the Pig Party. Again, crowded and we only stayed a bit before heading out to the bars again. Enjoyed it as always.

Sunday was a day of rest actually. We toured some and had dinner that evening with Rauf, Mark, Ross and Stig. It was a great meal and the company was awesome. After we finished dinner, the restaurant brought us shots of vodka. I'm not sure what kind of vodka it was, but as I shot it, I felt it go down my throat, my back, the crack of my ass, damn! That was some potent vodka!!

Then Monday we headed home. An uneventful flight (thankfully). I find it amusing that I fly a larger plane to Chicago than I do to London. I'm sure there is a reason . . .

Berlin proved to be amazing. The culture is terrific and it made for a great trip. I am thrilled that David was able to make the trip with me. He isn't able to make most of the trips; however, making my first European trip with me was priceless. We don't get to travel together again until Key West for Thanksgiving and then not again until February when we head to Sydney, Australia. After that, it's not until IML in May.

Next is the Mr. Houston Leather contest this weekend. I'm looking forward to the event. If any of you are going to be in town, make sure to come by the Ripcord and say hello!!

Your Leather Brother, Jeffrey

Birthday, Numb Butt and Dinner

Good Evening, Everyone!!

I know! You are looking at the title and thinking, "WTF!?!?" I will explain; read on.

I arrived in Chicago after leaving Indianapolis on Sunday in time to make it to Chuck Renslow's "White Party" which was his 80th birthday party. Everyone was there! Had a great time and I always enjoy seeing Chuck. He is an icon in our community and someone to whom I respect with all of my heart. Happy Birthday, Chuck!!!!

David was able to meet me in Chicago and was able to attend Chuck's party as well. In fact, he had arrived the day before and was able to spend some time with Howie (Master Z Chicago) and his wife, Becky. However, David flew home on Monday afternoon.

I was to stay in Chicago due to a fundraiser at The Leather Archives & Museum; however, it was cancelled, and since I already had my plane ticket, I figured I'd stay the extra few days and have some down time.

However, Rob (whom I had met at GLLA) had different plans for me. (Rob is Great Lakes Leather Sir 2008 and 1st runner up at International Leather Sir 2008) He asked if I wanted to go bike riding in downtown Chicago. Anyone that knows me, knows that I do not like riding bikes. It's not that I fear the actual bike; it's more-so that I fear dumb ass drivers on the road that are more worried about texting and talking on their phones and running me over. The other element to this is the fact that I do not hear cars coming until it's too late. By the time I hear them running over me - well, they are literally running over me. Too late for any reaction on my part.

But I decided to do it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Besides, I needed to see if I could handle it before I buy David and I bicycles. I don't want to spend a few hundred bucks on bikes only to find out that I hate them and the bike sits in the garage collecting dust.

So off Rob and I went. We got on the L and rode the L downtown and then started from "Millennium Park" (I think) and started pedaling with the Lake on one side of us and the city on the other. It was truly incredible to see the city in this manner (although it was a little while before I relaxed enough to start looking to my left and right rather than straight ahead while clinching the handlebars for dear life; and we were on a bike path! I know - I'm so butch.) Before long, I was comfortable enough to even carry on a conversation as we biked. After a few miles, I realized that my ass was numb from sitting so long on the bike. It didn't matter how I sat on the bike, my ass could not get comfortable. Thus, the nickname Numb Butt came out of Rob's mouth and he refers to me as that from time to time now and laughs hysterically. Glad I could entertain him . . . LOL

Suddenly the bike path ended and we had to ride on the open roads of Chicago. Now I was back to clinching the handles, grinding my teeth and trying to find a priest to read me my last rites, as I knew I would be flattened by some Soccer Mom in her Expedition while she smoked her cigarette, yelled at the kids in the backseat, ate her left over french fries from McDonald's that she had bought for breakfast that morning, spoke on the phone about how shitty her hair looked due to the humidity, and checked her lipstick in the rear view mirror. Jeffrey was going down and he knew it.

But I made it! All the way to Jon and Ken's home for dinner. Thank God!!!!!!!!! I was never so happy to see a home in a long time.

Jon and Ken had Joey, RJ, Rob, Jason and I over for dinner and it was FABULOUS! I do not remember eating a steak that was so tender!! Best piece of meat I've had in my mouth in a long time! The conversation was incredible and went on for a while. I cannot share what was said at dinner as the motto of "What is said and done at dinner, stays at dinner!". But needless to say, it was an incredible dinner. Thank you Jon and Ken!

The next day I spent it with Howie and Becky and we went to dinner and then to Bill's Blues to listen to the music. I realize that this Blog is to be spent speaking about my travels as IML; however, I want to share this story. We started listening to the music, just as we had done about eight weeks ago when I was in town. However, there was a major difference this time for me. I could not hear the music. I could feel the music's beat (as to the vibrations); however, the actual notes, the tones, etc. - nothing. It was just this cluster of noise that didn't make any sense. I looked around the room and everyone was clapping, or swaying, or whatever to keep the beat, but I didn't hear it. I removed my hearing aids, thinking maybe my hearing aids were acting up, but this didn't help at all. The 'noise' was softened substantially; however, it was still just noise. For the first time, I could not hear the music. When I got back to Howie's that night, I put my I-pod on to see if it was the same thing. I could hear the words, but the tones, the notes are all scrambled. I realized that on my Ipod, I know the music so well that I rarely truly "listen" to the music. I usually have it in to just fill up the silence. But when I try to hear the tones and the notes, it's just noise. I've memorized how the songs that I've listened to over and over again should sound, and that is why I didn't notice it before. But when I hear music I've never heard before, it doesn't make sense to me.

So I had a moment. I truly had a stupid little self-pity moment right there in Bill's Blues. Not that anyone noticed; however, I had my moment in my head, which is where I usually have them. Thanks to my husband, David, for reminding me that one day they will be able to do something to change this and that is what we have to cling to for now. We have to have hope, right? And thanks to Rob, who at least admitted he wished he had something profound to say at that time, but he didn't. I appreciate you just giving me a hug when you saw me. That meant alot to David to know that someone was able to offer me a hug at that time.

So that was my 'moment'. I didn't cry or lash out or anything. It was just one of those moments in my head where I thought, "Fuck! Why me!!" I'm find with it now. I guess everyone has 'moments' every now and then.

The next day, I departed Chicago for Dallas, but not before Rob took me on a tour of Chicago. It was great to see more of the city and to see Wrigley Field (Bear went to see the Cubs!!). Rob, thank you so much for spending time with me and taking time from your schedule to show me Chicago. You were a delight to spend time with and I appreciate everything so much.

Okay, I leave for Berlin on Sunday for Folsom Europe. I am beyond excited about it!!! We will have a blast!!! I cannot wait to tell all of you about it!!

Your Leather Brother,

Jeffrey

Great Lakes Leather Alliance 2009

Great Lakes Leather Alliance (GLLA) is held in Indianapolis each year and this was the 8th year they were holding the event. I was honored they asked me to judge the Leather Sir, Leather Woman and Leather boy contests. It was an even larger honor once I discovered who the other judges joining me were. My good friend Mark Frazier; my leather brother (and 2nd runner-up at IML this year) Alan Penrod; the 2008 International Leather boy Bill Hoepner; Ms. Olympus Leather 2009 Mistress Simone; the wonderful “mess” gloria; and Mr. Olympus Leather 2004 Daddy Mickey. An awesome group of individuals. It was a privilege to serve with all of them.

I arrived in Indianapolis on Thursday afternoon and met up with Lamalani, International Ms. Leather 2009, who arrived later that evening. We hung out with McG and gloria until late in the morning discussing everything from IML to Recon to SoCo. However, with staying up so late, and the hotel NOT calling us with our wakeup call AND the alarm clock not working, Lamalani and I didn’t wake up until 9 a.m. and I had to be at the first judging at 9 a.m.! I was late and y’all know how much I HATE being late! It is rare and I was not happy about this event. However, I got to the judging and everything still went off without a hitch. I will start traveling with my own alarm clock from this point on!

We judged the contestants in the interview portion of the competition and then we were pretty much free until later on that evening when the first installment of the formal portion of the contest began. So Lamalani and I drove over to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I got a few photos of Bear at the Speedway for the book and then we stopped to eat. I then had my boots shined for that evening. Then it was back to the hotel to get dressed for the contest. The first part of the contest consisted of speeches, step-down speeches and introductions. It also consisted of on-stage impromptu questions. During that part of the contest, the contestant who selected me to give him his question (boy quill) called me Gregory Lane and then Gregory Payne. I had to laugh; however, I have been called worse. I didn’t count off for the mistake, but rather found it endearing. It takes a lot to be on a stage and sometimes the oddest things come out of our mouths. He still answered the question in a humorous manner and didn’t let it deter him from what he needed to do. And he apologized afterwards, which was unnecessary. But again, I did find it humorous.

The first part of the contest was now over, so we changed clothing and went out to the local bar. We had a great time and thanks to Chris for giving Lamalani and I a ride back to the hotel. We found out he liked to two-step, so I promised him at least one two-step dance the next time we all went out in exchange for the return trip to the hotel.

Saturday was a free day for the most part, as my only responsibility was to judge the second part of the contest that evening. So I attended the Fireside Chat with Mark Frazier (a filming for the Leather Archives and Museum) and then the auction by the pool. It was there I met Rob. He was/is an honorable man and it was a pleasure meeting him. I will speak more to him in my next post, as he ended up giving me a great tour of Chicago.

That evening we had the second portion of the contest, which consisted of the fantasy portions from the contestants and then the announcement of the winners. Congratulations to Bear (Great Lakes Leather Man), Christiana (Great Lakes Leather Woman), boy quill (Great Lakes Leather boy) and Kristina & fink (Great Lakes Master/slave). I know all of you will serve your community with honor and dignity.

That evening we stayed at the hotel and visited. It was great to catch up with everyone and make new friends. That is the best thing about being able to travel to so many events. I have made more friends during my travels and it’s such a great feeling. Also, whatever time I get to spend with Lamalani is always guaranteed to be an incredible experience!!! I also got to spend a lot of time with boy eddie. He truly has a good soul and it was great getting to spend some time with him and get to know him.

And once again, another event offered a sign interpreter!! Gabriel was incredible and signed for me during both sections of the contest as well as the majority of the auction at the pool. I want to thank GLLA producers for ensuring that a sign interpreter was available to those of us who needed it. Otherwise, we would not be able to enjoy the contest as much. My hats off to you!! Please continue this practice and spread the word to everyone that this is a necessary part of producing a contest.

On Sunday I flew to Chicago and will blog about that separately.

And again, thank you to the producers and sponsors of GLLA, as well as the many participants. Thank you for making me feel welcomed and thank you for an incredible weekend!

Your Leather Brother,

Jeffrey

TIFLOL High Tea Party

David held his first TIFLOL High Tea Party and Fundraiser last Saturday night. It was a great success and I wish to thank everyone that attended the party. Photo's of the event can be seen at www.flickr.com/photos/iml2009/.

TIFLOL stands for "The International First Lady of Leather". Some have said they think the title is an insult to David; however, David embraces it with all the passion he has and he owns it!! He tells everyone that he can think of no better title to have because that means his husband must be International Mr. Leather and he likes the idea of sharing this journey with him and it also means he gets to go to bed every night with him (well, every night he's in town . . .)! (I like that, too!!)

David did an excellent job at organizing the event on my behalf. We had auction items, a raffle, food and lots of alcohol. In fact, too much alcohol, as we had plenty left over. But the most wonderful thing about this party was the fact that I got to spend time with my local Dallas friends. I have been on the road so much (and will be on the road so much in the coming months) that I don't get to spend the time I used to be able to spend with them. It was so wonderful to just be able to sit back and talk and spend those precious moments with them. I miss them so much. But they support my journey to the n'th degree and I cannot thank them enough for that.

Love you all!!!! A special thank you to our friend Kyle who had the party at his home! We appreciate you so much!!

Your Leather Brother,

Jeffrey