Happy Holidays - A look at the last 20 years - Flash Back Gallery
This week I have scoured my photo file of the last 20 years and have come up with about 25 or so gems I think you will like. Most of these are from Southern California with clubs such as Avatar Club Los Angeles' Wreath Auctions and Krampus, Regiment of the Black and Tans with Toast to the Season, Satyrs MC Anniversary parties after Thanksgiving, ONYX Southwest, California B&B Corps with their parties at the Tom of Finland House, San Diego clubs combined party, and the Tom of Finland Foundation's huge bash complete with professional carolers and Muscle-bound Santa Claus.
Mr. International Rubber
By Kilker Alcaraz
My warmest congratulation goes to Adalberto Rubbadam, our new MIR, having won November 6-8 at The Vic Theatre in Chicago, IL. Also, Matthew Shepherd was first runner-up and presented the best ever fantasy and Rodi Coderage was second runner up. The Mr. International Rubber judges were Tyesha Nicole Best, Miguel Torres, Kilker Alcaraz, Alex Rubbaman, Bryan Tsai, Guillaume Dupuis. and Líam Clark. Among events were the Thursday night Welcome Dinner Cellars Bar & Grill, Touché Welcomes Rubbermen to Chicago on Thursday. Friday included a Kink Market full of vendors, Kink Education Sessions on Rubber Gear 101, Lubed Up Latex Wrestling, Mocktails, Cocktails, Women's, Transgender and Non-Binary Leather Kink Cruise Night, Rubber Ball Dance Party and Slick and Twisted MAFIA Party at Steamworks and a Tight and Shiny Pansexual Play Party. Saturday had Kink Education 1 and 2 - Art of Cruising and Th Physics of Kink, Rubber Pup Rumpus at the Center on Halsted, Rubberists of Color at the Center on Halsted, the Mr. International Rubber contest. Sunday centered around the MIR XXIII Winners Reception at the Center on Halsted.
Barcelona Rubber Weekend
Barcelona Rubber Weekend will be November 29 - December 1 in Barcelona, Spain. Join about a thousand like-minded rubbermen for what should be one of Europe's best kinky parties of the year. Barcelona Rubber Weekend included a photo tour, Welcome social hosted by San Francisco Bay Rubber, bus tour, Rubber Xperience, Mr. Rubber Spain, Rubber Celebration at Boxer Cafe, Rubbex at Xmanclub and Open Rubber at Openmind. We do not have the contest results yet.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1686096454809543/
https://www.weezevent.com/barcelona-rubber-weekend
Steve Ganzell passes
Steve Ganzell, a clinical psychologist who was a longtime member of the Christopher Street West board of directors and chair of the Los Angeles Leather Coalition for four years, died suddenly on Sunday, December 1 at home. Steve is a past chair of the Los Angeles Leather Coalition and a co-chair of Christopher Street West, 2008-2011, which produces the Los Angeles LGBT Pride Parade and Festival. Steve was the clinical director of the mental health program for Being Alive. He was a member of Avatar Club Los Angeles. He has received many accolades including a President's Award at Pantheon of Leather in 2008 and the Leather to Leather Award in 2018 among others. Dr. Steve Ganzell had a practice in Hollywood, CA. Ganzell is survived by his partner, Tony Giragos, and his adult children, Crystan, Zach, and Adam.
Leather Hall of Fame names inductees
The Leather Hall of Fame honors announced the names of those who will be inducted into the Leather Hall of Fame in 2020: MLC Munich, Jim Ward and Pauline Reage. The Leather Hall of Fame honors and preserves the legacy of the extraordinary people and organizations that have significantly shaped the history of the Leather/BDSM communities worldwide since 1950. The 12th Leather Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Brunch will be held on Sunday, April 26 at the Westin Hotel during CLAW XX in Cleveland, OH. To learn about the Leather Hall of Fame’s criteria and procedure to select inductees, to learn about the previous inductees, and to make a nomination for future induction, please visit http://www.leatherhalloffame.com
For tickets go to http://www.clawinfo.org
Sanctuary Leather 2020
Mr. Sanctuary Leather is Apolonio E. Muñoz III, Ms Sanctuary Leather is Atomic Ana Algos and Sanctuary Pup 2020 is Pup Lan having won their titles at the Sanctuary LAX Studios in Lennox, CA on Saturday night, December 7. Gabriel Green and Jill Overfield served as emcees. The judges were Lady Remedy Ann, Elliot Musgrave, Romaldo Mancilla, Adam Monda and Jessica Harrison. A meet and greet was held at Eagle LA on Thursday night, December 5.
The 21st Annual 12 Days of Christmas - We're Finally Legal
The 21st Annual 12 Days of Christmas will be held at the Maritime Conference Center on Saturday, December 14 at 12 PM. This is a live performance, drag, and skit adult variety show with a silent auction, raffles, bootblacks, pictures with Santa and Ms Claus, cupcakes from Belton, and charity benefit event. The emcees will be Shawnna Alexander, David Allen and Sarha Shaubach. ASL interpreters are Debbie Jones, Susan Weinstein and Jenn Arif. Tickets are $20. This year's beneficiaries are AIDS Action Baltimore, Scott Stamford Memorial Fund, MADIF - Memorial Community Services Fund, Trans Life Line and B & Dee's Baltimore Love. Maritime Conference Center, 692 Maritime Boulevard, Linthicum Heights, Maryland 21090.
https://www.facebook.com/events/274147016623352/
Master Eb's Spirit directed by Alex Ironwood
By Wilson Raiser
Master Eb's Spirit will be presented at the LGBT Community Center of the Desert on Saturday, December 14 at 6:30 PM. Master Eb's Spirit is a theatrically-staged reading of an original play by Ty Dehner based on Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol directed by Alex Ironwood, set in the Gay Leather community of today. In this play Master Eb is visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve in this modern styling of Dickens' A Christmas Carol. LGBT Community Center of the Desert, 1301 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA.
Mr. Eagle 562 Leather 2020 is Joey Byrne
By Pup Yoshi
On behalf of Eagle 562, it is my honor and privilege to announce the appointment of Mr. Eagle 562 Leather 2020 Joey Byrne. Joey has been a familiar face at Eagle 562 since its opening, and has volunteered for countless events, both at the bar and in the greater LGBT community. Join us at Eagle 562 on Saturday, January 4 for a Pass the Sash Bash to celebrate the New Year 2020 with Mr. Eagle 562 Leather 2020 Joey Byrne and to honor a great year with Mr. Eagle 562 Leather 2019 Eli Avila. Bootblacking will be Los Angeles Bootblack 2019 Duke Ruff.
https://www.facebook.com/Eagle562LB/
CineKink - Annual Kinky Film Festival
CineKink Kinky Film Festival organizers have announced that the 17th annual CineKink NYC will takes place March 18–22 and feature a specially-curated program of films and videos that celebrate and explore a wide diversity of sexuality. Billing itself as "the kinky film festival," CineKink is dedicated to the recognition and encouragement of sex-positive and kink-friendly depictions in film and television. With offerings drawn from both the independent cinema world and the adult, works presented at CineKink NYC will range from documentary to drama, comedy to experimental, slightly spicy to quite explicit--and everything in between. In addition, plans for CineKink NYC include a short film competition, audience choice awards, a Bring It! showdown of adult cinema, panels and workshops, a kick-off gala, and a sizzling Afterglow play party to wrap the festivities. A national tour is set to take place in the months following the festival, showcasing audience favorites from the NYC selections.
Mr. and Ms Precinct Leather
Adam Emelio Reyes was named Mr. Precinct Leather 2020 and Tea became the first Ms Precinct Leather at the Precinct in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, November 10. Mr. and Ms Precinct Leather 2020 runner-ups were Titus Hound and AfroDisiac. The judges were Louie Ramrod, Jamila Dawson, Nicole Moon O'Neal, Marpa Franzoni, Spike, and Elliot Musgrave.
https://www.facebook.com/precinctdtla/
SoCal Bondage Club at Threshold
It was announced that the SoCal Bondage Club has returned to Threshold in North Hollywood with play parties being the second Saturday of each month from 12-4 PM. play parties were held at Threshold for 10 years and with its 3,000 square feet, it was a perfect fit. The next play party will be on December 14. Threshold, 11300 Hartland Street, North Hollywood, CA 91605. The SoCal Bondage Club welcomes all men, from experienced BDSM players to guys curious about learning the ropes. In jeans or full gear, you're bound to have a safe, sane and wicked good time.
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Excelsior MC trims Eagle NYC tree, Raises Funds for Homeless LGBTQ+ Youth
By Bruce-Michael Gelbert
On December 6, New York City-based Excelsior MC held its annual Trim-a-Tree holiday event at the Eagle NYC, with its guests, from Leather clubs throughout the Northeast, decorating the Eagle Christmas tree, as well as raising $670 for New Alternatives for LGBTQ+ homeless youth through the sale of raffle tickets and Jell-O shots. In attendance were Excelsior MC officers and members past and present, pledges Mr. Eagle NYC 2020 Mike Jeavons and Ken, and associates; visiting members of other local and out-of-state clubs; past and present Messrs. Fire Island Leather, Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and puppies and handlers.
San Diego's Annual Leather Community Toy Drive
San Diego will host its Annual Leather Community Toy Drive on Friday December 20 at the San Diego Eagle. The Toy Drive is being produced by Mr. Eagle 2013 Robert Rodriguez and Mr. West Coast Olympus Leather 2017 Bill Willis. The toys will go to the greater Imperial Court de San Diego's Toy Drive. Donate a new unwrapped kids toy. While the toy drive begins earlier and people can bring toys anytime, the San Diego Eagle Holiday party will begin at 10 PM with hors d' oeuvre buffet being served. San Diego Eagle. 3040 North Park Way, San Diego, CA 92104.
http://www.sandiegoeagle.com/events/
https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoEagle/
Southern Sole Bootblack Weekend 2020
Southern Sole Bootblack Weekend is all set for February 7-9 in Atlanta, GA. The 2020 Southern Sole Bootblack Weekend’s tagline is Raising the Bar because in 2020, Southern Sole is shifting its focus to advanced learning, offering classes to allow experienced bootblacks to further their technical knowledge of bootblacking and Leather care. The increased knowledge will then be taken back to home bars, events, and living rooms improving the image and reputation of not only the bootblacks, but the events and venues in which they shine. There will be a 101 all-day intensive on Friday but please be advised, Saturday and Sunday classes will be paced and geared towards experienced bootblacks. Registration is $75. Atlanta Eagle, 306 Ponce de Leon Avenue NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308.
https://www.facebook.com/events/2133269183640158/2222342351399507
Raaarrr VI: Bearicuda - Mr. LA Leather Bear
Raaarrr VI: Bearicuda will feature the Mr. LA Leather Bear contest January 16-18 at several venues in Los Angeles, CA. There will be a meet and greet at Eagle LA on Thursday night, a Bears LA Dinner at the Coral Cafe in Burbank on Friday night and the Mr. LA Leather Bear contest on Saturday night at Eagle LA. Jeremy Oliver-Ronceros and Don Mike will be the emcees so expect a spicy and fun night. Bears LA will celebrate the amazing title year of Mr. LA Leather Bear 2019, Eric de León. Admission is $7 at the door.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1133386906852244/permalink/1177364485787819/
Frisky Pups: A Men's Play Party
Frisky Pups: A Men's Play Party will be hosted by Mr. Daddy's Barbershop Leather 2018 and SF Catalyst on Saturday, December 21 at 8 PM in San Francisco,CA. Frisky Pups is a sex-positive, kinky party for men. We’re inviting men, boys, and pups to SF Catalyst for a sweaty night of debauchery. We’ve got a fully-equipped play space with BDSM equipment, benches, beds, slings, puppy mats, and much more that will help you unleash your primal instincts. Lube, condoms, and snacks provided. Come for wild play, torturous SM, tight bondage, stretching rear entry, drenching piss, or whatever twisted things you desire. Tickets are $20. SF Catalyst, 1060 Folsom Street, San Francisco, California 94103.
https://www.facebook.com/events/438635343451804/
Smokeout 2020 in April
Smokeout is a fun-filled uncomplicated weekend in Las Vegas for cigar and pipe studs, Leathermen, bikers, bears and friends, from all over the world. A free-flowing weekend so everyone can enjoy Las Vegas the way you want to - in the company of fellow studs. All of this is great if you have a room. The host hotel is beginning to fill up fast. Smokeout will be held at the Alexis Park Resort the weekend of April 8-13.
Highwaymen TNT - monthly cookout
Join the Highwaymen TNT for their monthly cookout at the DC Eagle in Washington, DC on Sunday, December 15 at 5 PM. $12 dinner plate includes your first draft beer from the Club Bar, Ham with a Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Breast, Vegetable Skewers, Green Bean Almandine Prawn Salad, Honey Butter King's Hawaiian Rolls, Coconut Something and Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. DC Eagle, 3701 Benning Road NE, Washington, District of Columbia 20019.
https://www.facebook.com/events/2343835032326586/
San Francisco Leathermen's Discussion Group - Volunteer Appreciation and Holiday Party
The San Francisco Leathermen's Discussion Group will host its anual Volunteer Appreciation and Holiday Party at SF Catalyst on Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 PM. show our volunteers how important they are to SFLDG's mission. Without them we couldn't bring you the quality of programing you come to expect. Help SF LDG to let their volunteers know they are appreciated. Come nosh and toast to an exciting new year. This event is free and open to all. SF Catalyst, 1060 Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA.
https://www.facebook.com/sfldg/
Palm Springs Pup Night
The Palm Springs Pup Night is held every first Tuesday at the Tool Shed and is hosted by Mr. West Coast Olympus Leather Wilson. The next one is on Tuesday, January 7 at 7 PM. Pups, handlers, Sirs and curious come ready to play. Tool Shed, 600 East Sunny Dunes Road, Palm Springs, California 92264.
https://www.facebook.com/events/661237581041170/
New Horizons For Fifty - Mr. Long Beach Leather 2019
New Horizons For Fifty: A Different View of Things is the domain for the writer/artists Eric Crow, who manifests in the Leather/Bear Community as Eagle Bear. Saturday Morning Hike with Mr. Long Beach Leather 2019 Eric Crow on Saturday, December 28 at 10 AM at El Dorado Nature Center and Regional Park, 7550 East Spring Street, Long Beach, California 90815. New Horizons For Fifty is designated a “snark-free zone” and is an extension of me and the communities I serve. Our three pillars are tapestry, anchorage and living history. Featuring interviews, inspirations and imaginings from the deepest, wildest part of the heart, New Horizons For Fifty is a sacred space of magic, where dancing to the beat of your own drum is the norm.
https://www.facebook.com/NewHorizonsForFifty/
Leather List
Leather List continues to serve Leather people and cultures, having finished the first stage of development of the new LeatherList.org It’s already the most comprehensive updated site of information and resources serving Leather and Sex-Positive communities. Just search for what you want, anywhere in North America. Find annual Leather and sex-positive events, including a page of updated calendars; Leather clubs; MAsT chapters; and Sex-Positive Centers. All listings are currently free, with URLs for contact purposes. Leather List is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Seattle. It’s managed solely by volunteers. Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tiger's Pictionary - Leather Pride Night
Tiger's Pictionary - Leather Pride Night, hosted by San Diego Leather Pride every Wednesday at 7:30 PM at #1 Fifth Avenue, 3845 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103. There will be spankings and great prizes - and a huge welcome to all titleholders and out-of-town visitors. Next dates are December 11, 18, 25 and January 1. Labeled as San Diego's favorite weekly fundraiser, Tiger's Pictionary has been going since 2011.
https://www.facebook.com/PictionaryNight/
Crescent City Leathermen
The Crescent City Leathermen combine a Beer Bust with a Themed Gear Night. December’s Gear Theme is Big Boy Toys. Adhere to the Gear Theme and get a free Jell-O shot or a CCL Chip worth $1 from 10 PM to 1 AM at the Phoenix in New Orleans. $10 All-you can-drink keg-beer. The Crescent City Leathermen's general membership meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month with the next being December 11 and the one following is January 9 at 7:30 PM. The Phoenix Bar. 941 Elysian Fields Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70117.
https://crescentcityleathermen.org/calendar-of-events
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Frat House - Monthly Leather Night
The Monthly Leather Night at the Frat House on Friday, December 13 at 8 PM. A monthly Leather/Gear/Social night. Mr. OCIE Jeff Galley-Reay is the host. There will be kinky fun and /or games and maybe raise some money for The Leather Heart Foundation. $10 door donation. Frat House Nightclub, 8112 Garden Grove Blvd., Garden Grove, CA 92844.
https://www.facebook.com/events/775825859452824/
Rocky Mountain Leather Alliance education
The Rocky Mountain Leather Alliance holds educational classes on the second Saturday of each month in Denver, CO. The next one is on December 14 classes begin at 2 PM. The RMLA advocates for an alliance of the regional Leather, kink, fetish, and BDSM communities through outreach, social, and educational events. King Center, Auraria Campus, King Center room 201 in Denver, CO.
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Puppy and Handler Play - all you need to know
The go-to web site for all things pup play, from the basics for newcomers to advice and opinions to inspire those with serious ambition. This is not meant to be taken literally or as a rule-book. This is designed to inspire pups to be the pup they want to become and find resources to help them reach where they want to go in the pup scene. Pup play is when one person takes on the role of a pup or handler. The pup acts like their canine counterpart and the trainer, for the most part, handles the pup like he would a biological puppy. For many it serves as a release of the primal animal part of them. It is not is bestiality: real animals are not involved.
Seattle Men in Leather - First Friday Leather Social
The Seattle Men in Leather host a First Friday Leather Social with January 3 being the next date. All start at 9 PM. Join Seattle Men in Leather for a weekend Leather night on the Cuff patio. Leather and gear encouraged, but not required. Seattle Men in Leather is social group. We put on socials, classes, contests, and the occasional party. The group was founded in March 1989 and has grown over the years into 300+ men. Cuff Seattle, 1533 13th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122.
https://seattlemeninleather.org/
https://www.facebook.com/seattlemeninleather/
Fetish Men San Diego - Cigars and Boots
This gathering for cigar lovers and boot lovers is a monthly event held on the first Saturday of each month. There will be a bootblack present, so bring boots you'd like blacked. Saturday, January 4, 4-7 PM, at Pecs Bar, 2046 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104 for socializing and fun. Cigars, tobacco pipes, cigarettes, and dip welcome. You don't have to be a tobacco enthusiast to enjoy the socializing. Daddy Barry will be hosting plus it will be his first social venture out since his motorcycle accident. Come give him some loving.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sdcigarsandboots/about/
Miss Cassie Rope Bondage Classes
Miss Cassie Rope Bondage Classes are held every Wednesday at the Lair de Sade in North Hollywood with the next few are December 18, 25, January 8 and 15, and run 8-10 PM and are $10 per person. Miss Cassie teaches a variety of ties and tailors her classes according to the needs of her students. She does teach a lot of bondage basics and a bit about safety, but mostly we just tie and practice all sorts of ties. She often introduces new ties and more advanced ties. Miss Cassie teaches both eastern and western rope bondage techniques. This is a hands on class - be prepared to tie or be tied! Lair de Sade, 6628 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91606.
https://www.facebook.com/CassieLovesRope/
Knights d'Orleans
Join in on the $10 all-you-can-drink beer bust with the Knights d'Orleans at the Phoenix in New Orleans every Friday at 10 PM. he next one is December 27. New Orleans Phoenix, 941 Elysian Fields Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70117.
https://www.facebook.com/events/347100149280726/
Touché - Leather Women's Cruise
Touché opens its Club Room at 8 PM on second Fridays with the next being December 13, for its monthly Leather Women's Cruise. This month there will be a presentation on Needle Play with Sarah Sloane. Sarah is a kink and sexuality educator, and leather woman, based here in Chicago. Each month Touché lets Leather sisters gather for a bit of socializing and cruising before letting the boys take over the room. Several gals have come in to learn about Leather and make new friends since Touché launched this night in 2017. All women, butch/femme and non-binary welcome. Touché, 6412 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60626.
https://www.facebook.com/ToucheChicago-110806562290308/
Austin Gears - Gear Night
Austin Gears will host their monthly Gear Night at 4 PM on Saturday, January 4 at The Iron Bear in Austin, TX. Gear Night is a safe zone and welcoming of everyone in the community. What is gear? What ever turns you on and makes you feel sexy...that is gear. The Iron Bear, 121 West 8th Street, Austin, TX 78701.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1780767715369700/
SF Bay Area Sober in Leather
SF Bay Area Sober in Leather hosts their Sober Munch on the fourth Saturday of each month at Wicked Grounds in San Francisco at 6 PM. The next is December 28. Sober in Leather will be meeting for mingling and munching in the back room of SF's only kinky cafe and boutique, Wicked Grounds. You don't have to be clean and sober to attend. Wicked Grounds, 289 8th Street, San Francisco, California 94103.
https://www.facebook.com/support.sfbasil/
Leather and LGBTQ Cultural District
The next meeting of the Leather and LGBTQ Cultural District's board members is set for Wednesday, December 18 from 6-8 PM, SF LGBT Center, 1800 Market Street, Room 204, San Francisco, California 94102. This very special meeting will include the election of our initial Board of Directors. Voting privileges at the August meeting are extended to anyone who has had voting privileges at any previous Community Meeting.
https://www.facebook.com/events/736850366730796/
Bay Area Cigar Buddies
Bay Area Cigar Buddies is a San Francisco-based group for adult homophile men in the San Francisco Bay Area, who are cigar smokers; and for men who are interested in cigars, cigarmen, socializing, and making contacts. We also welcome pipe smokers among our ranks. BACB is a regional forum, but men from everywhere are invited to join and participate. Our membership includes men from across the US and internationally. Cigar Night has been ongoing for over 16 years as a weekly event in San Francisco. However, it is currently being restructured. Cigar Night is held on the second Friday of the month at The Lone Star Saloon, from 8 PM in San Francisco, CA with the next being on December 13.
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/bayareacigarbuddies/info
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A Blast From The Past
Avatar Club Los Angeles' Holiday Party in Glendale, California in Dcember 2014. Photo by Dave Rhodes
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Past Dave Rhodes' Hump Day news blogs
http://www.theleatherjournal.com/op-ed/item/2096-dave-rhodes-hump-day-november-25-2019
https://www.theleatherjournal.com/op-ed/item/2095-dave-rhodes-hump-day-october-20-2019
https://www.theleatherjournal.com/op-ed/item/2094-dave-rhodes-hump-day-september-20
https://www.theleatherjournal.com/op-ed/item/2093-dave-rhodes-hump-day-september-10-2019
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From Mr. International Rubber
Steve Ganzell
From Sanctuary Leather contest
Barcelona Rubber Weekend
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Start your 2020 off great and make your contribution to a long-standing Leather community institution
The Leather Journal
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Broken record - CLAW reports attendance increase
As many as 2,500 Leatherfolk attended CLAW 18 (Cleveland Leather Awareness Weekend) at the Westin Downtown Cleveland April 26-29. CLAW and its affilated CLAW Nation events have rung up over $800,000 in donations to charity since its inception in 2001. With fundraising activities everywhere, everyone was having a blast while giving. The International Leather Dinner at the XXX saw about 200 guests enjoy a fabulous view during dinner and the chance to explore numerous ehibits on Saturday night. CLAW story with tons of photos will appear next week. http://www.clawinfo.org
Note
This week's Hump Day is short, due to being home two of the last nine days, attending CLAW, having to ship the May - June Issue of The Leather Journal and going to International Olympus. May 9's Hump Day will be back to normal.
Women's International Leather Legacy
Women's International Leather Legacy (WILL) is planned for August 3-5 at the Hilton Garden Inn Dallas/Market Center. A weekend filled with workshops, activities, women’s history and a contest like no other, WILL features some fantastic workshops and panels, classes, the WILL contest, Friday dinner, Inside the Leather Jacket interviews, Sunday brunch with Keynote, and Bootblack Roundtable moderated by Jayson DaBoi and Briar. Hilton Garden Inn Dallas/Market Center, 2325 North Stemmons. Freeway, Dallas, TX, 75207. https://www.facebook.com/events/262310584303437/
DomCon: LA - Class and workshop schedule released
DmCon: Los Angels released its schedule for classes and workshops which begin on Friday, May 9 and run through Sunday, May 13. There are some 52 classes and workshops including Suspension for Newbies, Submissive Empowerment, BDSM vs 50 Shades, The Art of Seduction, The Erotic Art of Ritual and Protocol, Mummification, Kinky Yoga, Body Harness Hogties, FEM Doms of the Wild, The Magic of Mindfucking, Thinking Outside the Toybox and Predicament Ties for Playing Dirty among them Just a few of the presenters - Sera Miles, Sir Nik Sanatanas, Sir Valentino Harrison and Cupcake Harrison, Master Gabriel, Orpheus Black, Astrid, Dr. Susan Block and Mistress Simone Justice. DomCon: LA will be at the Hilton LAX on Century Blvd. near LAX with a big Saturday night Fetish Ball at Sanctuary LAX Studios. http://www.domconla.com/
De-Pathologization of Consensual BDSM
By Susan Wright for Science Direct
Family court judges regularly removed child custody or visitation rights from adults who engaged in consensual bondage, discipline, dominance and submission, and sadomasochism (BDSM), fetishes, and cross-dressing behaviors before the American Psychiatric Association (APA) differentiated consensual paraphilias (sexual sadism, sexual masochism, transvestic fetishism, and fetishism) from the paraphilic disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). After the proposed changes to the DSM-5 were made public for commentary, there was a significant decrease in discrimination against BDSM-practicing individuals. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1743609518301395
Leather Hall of Fame inducts three at CLAW
The Leather Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Brunch on Sunday, April 29 saw three inductees introduced by emcees Issa Arden and Rob Bienvenue, The Society of Janus, Black Leather In Color Magazine and International Mr. Leather. IML was founded in 1979 by Chuck Renslow and Dom "Etienne" Orejudos, Janus was founded in San Francisco in 1974 and Black Leather In Color ran from 1994 to 2000 with eight issues being published. A full story on each honoree can be found at http://www.leatherhalloffame.com
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Trivia Question of the Week
Born To Raise Hell was?
1. A video produced by Marathon Films in Los Angeles.
2. A run hosted over St. Patrick's Day weekend by Trident: Columbus.
3. Precursor to Burning Man and held in the Mojave Desert.
4. The only kink fiction written by Alan Selby while he was still in England.
5. A series of five videos produced by Mikal Bales.
Answer next week when a new question is asked.
Last week's Question answered - Judy Tallwing-McCarthey is? The first International Ms Leather - 1987.
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Perverted Interracial Guys - Pigs in Space
Pigs in Space by PIGS (Perverted Interracial Guys) are at it on Saturday, May 12 at 9 PM at Eagle 562. Neon Gear Night! Wear neon, gear, or neon gear! Leather, rubber, latex, or even just underwear. $5. Glowing go-go boys, live DJ, free clothes check, drink specials, pig shots, prizes, free parking lot. Eagle 562, 2020 East Artesia Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90805. https://www.facebook.com/events/1504104456367296/
Atlanta Leather Pride focuses on family bonding, giving back and BDSM education
Georgia Voice
Jonathan Fenrir, the current reigning Mr. Atlanta Eagle, is very much aware of the family component. "There's a growing number of Pride celebrations around town, [but] Atlanta Leather Pride is a chance for people of all walks of life to come out and be a part of something that sees past gender or sexuality," he said. "It's a perfect time for those that might have questions or want to hang out on the edges to see Leather and the Leather lifestyle celebrated so openly and free of judgement." http://www.ncsfreedom.org/press/blog/item/atlanta-leather-pride-focuses-on-family-bonding-giving-back-and-bdsm-education
KINK - new monthly event in San Diego
In Conjunction with International Olympus Weekend, Vonn Tramel, we kick off our first monthly pansexual event, KINK, on Friday, May 4 at The Rail in San Diego, CA, an event that welcomes everyone, men, women, gender neutral, and non-conforming Leatherfolk and/or their admires. Portion of proceeds will benefit International Mr., Ms, Mx Olympus Leather 2018 Travel Fund. May's special guest hosts are Olympus Leather and special guest DJ is Ryan David Racino. For more information contact Robert (619) 817-9926 and/or for Olympus Leather Weekend check out http://olympusleather.com
West Coast Jungle Gym contest
WCJG is a three day weekend conference, September 7-9 in San Diego, of all the things fun and exciting under the Age Play umbrella. We’ll have exciting education worships, out of this world social parties, fun and helpful vendors, giveaways, dark age play dungeon, puppy mosh, and the conferences first Little Miss, Mr. Mx and Pet contest. We welcome all little type folks (18+) Littles, middles, baby girls, lolitas, little sissies and bubbies, age players, folks that regress, folks that don’t, sexual littles, non-sexual littles, Adult babies, diaper lovers. Regardless of gender, identity, race, age or ability. We also welcome their caregivers, Daddys, Mommys, Aunties, Babysitters, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, etc. Along with critters, puppies, kitties and their handlers to join us. https://thewestcoastjunglegym.com/
TBLC - 27th Anniversary
TBLC celebrates their 27th Anniversary July 27-29 with there annual camp out at XXX. XXX, 4592 Lone Pine Road, Burkeville, VA 23922. Please visit TBLC website for more information go to http://www.tblcofvirginia.com
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Spartan MC
The Spartan Motorcycle Club will be celebrating with their 23rd Marathon, June 4-9. We will be participating in Americade, the world's largest multi-brand motorcycle touring rally. Americade is held in Lake George, NY. It is a gathering of friendly, fun-loving folks, for whom motorcycling is a social hobby, but not some form of rebellion. http://marathon.spartanmc.com/
Sherman Oaks Munch
The Sherman Oaks Munch is held the second Tuesday of every month in the River Rock restaurant at the Sportsman's Lodge in Studio City. 6:30 - 11 PM. This munch has been going for over six years and draws in excess of 250 kinksters each month. No host bar and food. Sit and eat, move around and share. Sportsmen's Lodge Hotel, 12825 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604. http://sportsmenslodge.com/river-rock/
Meat Rack at Eagle LA
John Piampiano and Hunter Fox present Meat Rack with deejay Matt Effect is hosted by Eagle LA on the second Saturday of each month. The next Meat Rack is on Saturday, March 10 at 9 PM. Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90029. https://www.facebook.com/events/1544728685826714/
Touché opens Club Room for its monthly Leather Women's Cruise
Touché opens its Club Room at 8 PM on second Fridays for its monthly Leather Women's Cruise. Each month Touché lets Leather sisters gather for a bit of socializing and cruising before letting the boys take over the room. Several gals have come in to learn about Leather and make new friends since Touché launched this night last year. All women, butch/femme and non-binary welcome. Touché, 6412 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60626. https://www.facebook.com/ToucheChicago-110806562290308/?rf=215934215107409
Help Keep Leather Alive in SOMA
Contribute to SF Catalyst. Your support will help keep and improve SF Catalyst, the Leather community run space at 1060 Folsom Street in San Francisco, CA. Go to the SF Catalyst Facebook page and click on their IndieGoGo link https://www.facebook.com/CatalystSanFrancisco Space Rental - Catalyst features more than 3,000 square feet of dungeon, play and social space well-stocked with BDSM furniture. The space is currently available to rent for photo shoots, filming, art shows, gatherings, dates, life events, professional sessions, and play parties. Inquiries for renting the space may be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Puppy 101
By Papa Woof Roth
We are bringing Puppy 101 back to it’s original focus - Education and Discussion. Discussions of issues, and things directly relating to the puppy community. Event-related posts must have a direct educational focus for the puppy community, such as, discussion about workshops or looking for input for educational topics at an event, etc. Educational topics on gear, training, safety, etc. Gear pics - Once a month we will have a Show and Tell Sunday, you can share all the gear pics you have that abide by Facebook standards. https://www.facebook.com/groups/puppy101/
Support the NCSF
Several articles in Dave Rhodes' Hump Day are supplied by the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom through a press release form. Support them be becoming a member. The NCSF is committed to creating a political, legal and social environment in the US that advances equal rights for consenting adults who engage in alternative sexual and relationship expressions. The NCSF aims to advance the rights of, and advocate for consenting adults in the BDSM/Leather/Fetish/Swing/Polyamory communities. We pursue our vision through direct services, education, advocacy, and outreach, in conjunction with our partners, to directly benefit these communities. http://www.ncsfreedom.org/
Excelsior MC — Lust for Life 2018: Erector
Excelsior MC presents Lust for Life 2018: Erector "If you build it, they will cum" the weekend of May 18-20 in Cherry Grove, Fire Island, NY 11980. The usual club weekend revelry is expected and you can be a part of the action. Excelsior MC began in 1975 when a group of four men, Terry McNulty, David Talbot, Rich Dicurci and Wally Wallace shared a room on Fire Island where they spent Leather Weekend, sponsored by Cycle MC. The club members and GDI's (Goddamn Independents) at this run came from all over the United States and Europe, and everyone was very friendly and outgoing. The original four members felt a kinship with these leather men and a special friendship evolved with one group in particular, Empire City MC. Registration is available at http://www.execsiormc.com 
Thunder in the Mountains
Thunder in the Mountains will again be held at the Crowne Plaza Denver Airport Convention Center in Denver the weekend of July 20-22. Thunder in the Mountains, with an outstanding line-up of presenters and classes and, our 50,000 square-foot dungeon, and puppy mosh pit and pony track, this promises to be the best party so far. Some of the big-name presenters are Laura Antoniou, Master Skip Chasey, Mark Frazier, Midori, Lee Harrington, Peter Fiske and Glenda Rider. Crowne Plaza Denver Airport Convention Center 15500 East 40th Avenue, Denver, CO 80239. Details at http://www.thunderinthemountains.com
World Bear Weekend - Mr. Kilt International Contest
World Bear Weekend will be hosting the first Mr. Kilt International Contest on August 24 Emcee John David has been active in the Bear and Leather communities for a number of years. He has held several titles including Mr. Kentucky Bear 2008 and International Mr. Bear 2009. This amazing stole, made by Wolfstryker Leather, along with $500 cash, $500 worth of kilts, and a custom sporran could be yours. Ready to compete? Visit http://www.Worldbearweekend.com for details.
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Writer Guidelines
How you can include your information on Dave Rhodes' Hump Day
If you come up with a date and basic information on a new event, please send us the date and a short detail or two. This is designed for the web site and less so for print, so there is no 45 days-in-advance deadline. If your event is happening on November 15, make sure I have it by Monday afternoon, November 6.
Things to send:
1. Short article of about 90 words. So what if you are a few over. Please be concise.
2. Photo or two. Landscape preferred. Must be a jpg. Taken with cellphone is fine. Please supply photo credit.
3. Link to a working site. Web site is preferential, Facebook still works.
4. Five "W's" - Who, what, when, why and where. All are important.
5. Please be concise. In news, verbosity is not a virtue; it is an editor's nightmare.
6. Send to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Past Dave Rhodes' Hump Day blogs
https://www.theleatherjournal.com/op-ed/item/2014-dave-rhodes-hump-day-april-25-2018
https://www.theleatherjournal.com/op-ed/item/2013-dave-rhodes-hump-day-april-18-2018
https://www.theleatherjournal.com/news/regional-news/item/2008-dave-rhodes-hump-day-march-21-2018
https://www.theleatherjournal.com/op-ed/item/2006-dave-rhodes-hump-day-march-14-2018
https://www.theleatherjournal.com/op-ed/item/2004-dave-rhodes-hump-day-march-7-2018
Scene from Southwest Leather Conference 2017. Photo by Dave Rhodes
Southwest Leather Conference - Take the Plunge
Southwest Leather Conference 2018 - Take the Plunge will highlight the annual Southwest Master/slave Contest and Southwest Bootblack Contest in gorgeous Phoenix, Arizona. Southwest Leather Conference also includes Dance of Souls hook pull ceremony, keynote brunch, play parties, a large number of classes and workshops, Leather Tribe Revival and other socials. http://www.southwestleather.org/content/registration NOLA Leather to Geaux 2018 March 16 - 18, 2018 hosted by NOLA Leather to Geaux March 16-18 at 6 PM at the Phoenix, 941 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117-8535.
The Leather Journal was founded in May, 1987. The Leather community was hungry for news magazine that covered clubs, organizations and events. TLJ has successfully met that need for 34 years. We have adapted to change more than once and when the Internet came about we were there by adding www.TheLeatherJournal.com
