OCTOBER LITTLE CITY WITH A BIG HEART

Imagine attending a leather event where one can actually converse with leather folk. An event where you are not pushed, shoved and trampled like stampeding cattle. Such a city does exist. The city is Utica, NY. This past weekend Utica was the site of the 2nd annual North Atlantic Leather contest.

The contestants were vying for the Mr. North Atlantic Leather, and North Atlantic Leather boy titles. Although there was only one contestant for the leather boy contest, he did have to garner 80 percent of the points to win. There were six hot men competing for the NAL title.

Competing for NAL 2001, were Roger Cruttenden, Bob Gasser, John Chambers, Bob Erp, John Marino and Ross Nadler. Don Freeman competed for the NAL boy title.

Amazing how many current and past title holders attended this event. This weekend, hosted by the Utica Tri's, has quickly become "the" event to attend in the month of October for all who reside in New York and the New England area. Our neighbors to the North, (Canada) had great representation at this event as well. The Ottawa Knights were out in full force.

Head judge this year was Patti Brown, manager of the Cell Block in Chicago. Other judges included Jerry Acosta, Mr. Marcus, John Purdie and the two outgoing title holders Jimmy Lee Murray and Randie Smith.

Having attended every contest with the exception of one, I have watched this event grow. The weekend has grown so much, until this year it outgrew the original site. Most of the events were held at the Radisson hotel. A very posh place that accepted men and women in leather without bating an eye.

At the rate this contest and weekend is growing, The Utica Tri's will be booking the grand ballroom for this event in the very near future. For all the new faces that attended this year, aren't you glad you did? The food was exceptional, the cocktails had just the right amount of liquor, and the hospitality of the Utica Tri's was overflowing.

When the tallymasters totaled up the points, Robert Erp was announced as the new NAL 2001 and Don Freeman is NAL boy 2001. John Marino Grabbed 1st runner up spot. Bob Gasser claimed the 2nd runner up spot. To say that any of the six contestants would have been qualified to hold the title, would have been an understatement. All are fine men who continue to represent their communities exceptionally and are outstanding in their own right.

Mr. North Atlantic Leather will compete at IML next May. NAL Leather boy, will head to Washington, DC in April to compete for the American Leather boy title.

To the members of the Utica Tri's (and that cute new pledge), you are like a fine wine. Every year you become better and better. Thank you for such an outstanding weekend. And to the owner of the host bar, That Place, Marc Del Bono, you are simply fabulous. Emcee Frank Nowicki, was in rare form, and kept the audience laughing, and moved the contest along. No one is ever bored when Frank emcees.

The stepping aside speeches from Jimmy Lee Murray, and Randie Smith were short and to the point. Not one stop-watch was pulled from anyone's pocket! No, Kleenex were required!

Kudos' to the two wonderful men that held the title this year. You did yourself proud and the areas you represented as well.

DISH IN UTICA?-----YOU BETCHA

The look on a particular Utica resident face when he thought he would spend the night with his visiting EX. Except visiting EX showed up with a new boyfriend! I guess thats what is known as CLOSURE?

Major rumblings and grumbling over the fact that the Utica Tri's have held their contest for nine years on the same weekend. The only exception was the year that the quilt panels were on display in Washington, DC. Now Intl. Drummer has elected to use the same weekend for their contest. Now the question is, who will attend which? Stay tuned for the next chapter in this saga.

In Chicago, the Onyx Men were celebrating their anniversary and hosting their Mr. & Ms. Mid-America Leather contest. I am sure all the members attended. Wonder where their members were Sept 23rd when a big supporter of their club hosted a huge dinner in Oakland, CA. in their honor, and not one member showed up. Nor was there an explanation....Rather Rude, and quite tacky!

Emcee Frank Nowicki had a new squeeze on his arm in Utica. Yes, of course he was a blonde! And no, it was not the same one seen this summer in Rehoboth Beach! Not sure where the latest one was imported from.

The core seems to have fallen out of the "Big Apple." Hard to imagine that a city the size of NYC, now only has one leather bar! (The Lure.) Of course many would beg to differ with the words "leather bar." The Spike and NY Eagle customers are at a loss. If some of the bartenders at the LURE were perhaps a bit more friendly and more attentive, they might have more than subway tokens and change in their tip jar to count at the end of their shift!

The Ottawa Knights will be hosting their Mr. Leather Ottawa-Hull contest November 10-12. I am sure we will see a prominent DC leather business man in attendance. He is hoping to have an evening meal of Dim-Sum! After a certain leather title holder gives his step down speech.

THE WICKED WITCH MARCHING WITH A NEW DRUMMER

The Great Lakes region scored big with the selection of Dan Clark as the new International Mr Drummer 2000.. Richard Black of Phoenix, AR. grabbed the title of International Drummer boy 2000. The premier of Drummer 2000, was held in St. Petersburg, FL. just down the road apiece from Tampa.

The Suncoast Resort was the scene of all the action. A huge complex of shops, restaurants, and bars kept all attendees very busy the entire weekend. I might add, that the dungeon was packed as well, for all the late night/early morning crowd.

The weather was typical Florida. Hot and humid. However, as an extra added attraction hurricane Gordon paid a visit Saturday evening. The contest site was a huge tent erected on the grounds of the resort.

Lights, sound, and motorcycle ramps under the big top, all added to the excitement of the weekend. The opening number was an event within itself. All contestants were brought to the stage on big yellow Harley's. Corky, a former Ms SF Leather, was one of the drivers, and Jack, a former PA Drummer, was the other driver. Excellent showmanship and experience on their part to maneuver those big bikes up and down those ramps.

Emcee, Frank Nowicki did a superb job. Of course he was attired in a smashing new outfit straight from Amsterdam.

The contestants for Intl. Drummer were, Daniel Rabone, New England, Rod Wood, Northern CA., Larry Cottrill, southeast, Keyth Fitzgerald. Southwest, Randal Kinnear, Gulf Coast, David Labriola, Mid Atlantic, and Mark D'Aleo, Florida Mr. Drummer.

The terrific Group of boys were:Efrain Nunez, Florida, Andrew Keisker, Great Lakes, Kevin Eddings, Gulf Coast, Derick Rojas, Mid Atlantic, Kevin H., New England, Terry Gauchat, Northern CA. Bruce Tidwell, southeast,

Runner up To Intl Drummer was Randal Kinnear, and the International Drummer boy runner up was Derick Rojas. All the contestants were and are, exceptional representatives of their local regions, and terrific role models.

The judging panel consisted of, Mikal Bales, Judy Tallwing McCarthy, Dean Ogren, Ray Perea, Fraser Picard, Graylin Thornton, Mike Taylor and Marcus Hernandez. John Embry was slated to be a judge, but suffered a serious fall just prior to his departure to Florida. IML 2000, Mike Taylor was asked to fill in.

Martha Walsh, (one half of the former Two Tons of Fun) and backup for the late great Sylvester, kept the place jumping with renditions of some of her old songs.

It must be duly noted that one of the best jobs during the weekend had to be that of the Den Daddy. Wayne Nesbitt, a professional in his own right, handled all the trials and tribulations of that position with such grace and diplomacy. Den boys Darren Cole, and Kyle Taylor were excellent. Daniel Premack assisted in the den duties as well.

Woodie Barnes, IMD boy 99, brought the crowd to it's feet on several occasions during his step down speech. Fraser Picard, IMD 99 made his speech short and to the point. But his words came from the heart...Thank you gentlemen for an exemplary year.

Timothy Snider, the interpreter, always there giving his best. In case you did not know, Carl Baldwin, MAD 98, has a wonderful voice, witnessed by all in attendance, when he sang the National Anthem. Way to go Carl.

Keep your eye on Kevin H., who won the servitude award. New England is quite fortunate to have such an outstanding boy. It is safe to say everyone attending this event, was quite impressed with this years contestants.

For those regions that did not participate this year, you would be surprised at the interest of many from those areas. Wondering why there were no contestants. Prospective sponsors, it's not too early to start planning for next year.

In San Francisco, the annual Folsom Street Fair, played host to over a quarter of a million people. Bare Bodies galore. And there are plenty of photos on the Internet to prove it. If you missed this event this year, start making plans now for next year. Of course next weekend is the almost as famous Castro Street Fair. A bit more subdued, but lots of fun and lots to see.

DOUBLE DISH.....

I guess the importance of a title was truly on display, by what type of fabric was used on the 40 odd, sashes that were given out during one of the fun events at the Intl. Drummer contest. Lots of paper sashes, not too many naugahyde!!!! hmmmm

Since Ryan Goldner, former IMD boy, has a new sewing machine, we can only hold our breath and wonder what his next creation will be, and who will be wearing it!

As for the "BIG" entertainer at Drummer, perhaps the title of the song should have been changed to, "IT'S RAINING ATTITUDE" Pity to see "HAS" been Diva's who now rely on the gay community for their bread and butter, try to be so GRAND. Especially when they ain't all that!

Yes, that was a former Mr. Ebony Leather in attendance. Most recognized him without a dress!

Whats with certain current title holders, attending Imperial Sate events such as Drummer, and cannot be bothered wearing their sash when introduced on stage. Does it really take up that much space in the luggage?

Talk about not wasting any time, the two newest Drummer title holders were wearing their prize title vests, which they had made, less than 24 hours after they won the title. Nothing wrong with that.

For all that would like a copy of Frank Nowicki's off the shoulder ensemble, I am sure he will be more than happy to provide you with the name of his couture!

It has always been said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. However, can one picture the current Mr., DC Drummer impersonating THE WICKED WITCH? Evidently, the crowd attending that event was falling on the floor in laughter......OH REALLY?

During a fancy soire, at the home of Mary Elizabeth Boyd last April a gift from an admirer disappeared from the premises. Five months later the gift, (a collector lunch box) suddenly reappeared at the victims hotel door in St.Petersburg, with a note inside stating that the lunch box had been kidnapped, and like Lassie, had come home! Figure that one out if you care to.

THE WICKED WITCH

SUMMER ? WHAT SUMMER?

The summer of 2000, went by so quickly, until I must have missed a great deal of it. I remember June. July and August were but a passing blur. However, there were a few events that stood out. Mid-Atlantic Drummer, DC Drummer, New England Drummer, and Mr. Double L Leather.

New England Drummer, which was held at the Ramrod bar in Boston, left something to be desired. Should the same producers put this event on next year? The may want to invest in a clock for a starting time that coincides with the advertised starting time? and all thugh there was an emcee, it was indeed pathetic, that he had to use a fifty galleon drum to place his notes. Perhaps a book should be publishedand titled "I am the Emcee, but, It's not about me."

Over the course of two days, 12 intermissions did seem somewhat excessive. For any future judges who may be invited to judge that contest, it is advisable to check and see if an oxygen bottle and mask will be provided,or bring your own! The nasty smoke machine nearly wiped out half the judges and most of the audience. Especially when the machine was located directly under the judges table.

Notwithstanding, the contest did proceed and a handsome young man by the name of Daniel, was selected as Mr. New England Drummer 2000. The producers did not have a Drummer boy contest, however, one was appointed to represent the region at International Drummer this month in St. Petersburg, Fla. Kevin H. will do the honors. Kevin is also the bootblack at the Ramrod.

From Boston, the next leather contest brought us nto Rehoboth Beach, DE. An Oceanside resort area, not unlike Provincetown or Fire Island. The Double L hosted the second annual Mr. Double L.Leather contest. A very well run contest, with delightful contestants. A standing room only crowd packed the patio where the contest was held. Even more people would have attended, had the advertisements been placed and run two weeks earlier, NOT the day before the contest! It is safe to say, that had it not been for the outgoing Mr. Double L who worked his fingers to the bone, much of what went on would not have happened; from the fabulous party he hosted at his beautiful home on Friday night to the sashing of his successor on Saturday night. Many spectators likened it to throwing your own surprise birthday party. But then without Mark and John (the owners of the Double L) providing the site, there would not have been a contest

Seven contestants were vying for the title. Mark Teesdale, Victor Wieciech, David Cacciamani, Robert Sprout, Brian Waltc, Lloyd Harrington, and Richard Klank. All were bright, intelligent, good looking men. The Judges selected Mark Teesdale to hold the title of Mr. Double L 2000/2001. Richard Klank, was second runner-up and David Cacciamani grabbed the first runner up spot.

Jon Worthington's step down speech was brief because a portion of the time allotted to him was spent sharing his year with the audience with a wonderful slide presentation of his travels to various events. As the first Mr. Double L, Jon, set excellent standards for all futuretitle holders to follow.

Labor Day weekend had the leather community heading four different directions. Some went south for Southern Decadence, and the Louisiana Leather contest. Others headed north to Olympia, produced by the Centaurs many headed west to events held in Los Angeles and San Francisco.

It is known that the torch Bearers for Olympia this year were: Tom Robinson, MAL 2000 and Mike Siemer MAL 97. Of course everyone knows Mike has no qualms when it comes to dashing around naked, with or without a torch! Nor does Tom Robinson. Both have great bodies.

For all of you who enjoy drooling over hot men and beautiful bodies, you will have two more chances. International Mr. Drummer 2000.(St. Petersburg, FL will be one, and the annual Folsom Street fair, (SF) will be the second place. Both events will be In September. [Ed note: 16th i n Fla. & 24th in S.F.]

For those in the Mid-Atlantic region, ASGRA will once again be hosting the Mid-Atlantic Stampede the last week in Sept. in Maryland. If cowboys in tight jeans, and western boots are your thing, then that is the place to see and be seen

END OF THE SUMMER DISH....

Many in the leather community can hardly wait to see who the new IMD will be. One former regional title holder will be making his second appearance at said contest...No matter what the outcome he will be in the Florida sun celebrating his 30th birthday as well...

Did anyone catch that joke played on a current Mid-Atlantic Leather title holder down in Rehoboth Beach? I believe it had something to do with toilet paper??? oops! Some folks just won't forget.

Last years producer of the Double L contest, has a boy friend who is very prim and proper...NEVER exposed, Always covered up. Then I wonder what he was doing stark naked at 4 am in front of a sliding glass window leaving nothing to the imagination??? hmmmm

What does it mean when a tallymaster falls asleep in the middle of a leather contest? Is the contest too long? Is it boring? Or could it be too much partying the night before? Perhaps a bottle of "NO DOZE"should be included in the packets? Oh trust me, PHOTOS DON' T. LIE!

The invitations are out, and the wedding is set, and the happy couple are registered at TARGET! Who are the happy twosome? Two former IMSL's and if you miss the first ceremony,( in Walnut Creek, CA) you can catch it the second time. Except you will have to go to Nebraska to catch that act.

For anyone who is just dying to have a sash, and do not care where or what state you win it from,,,,Well check this out... The levi leather community has been invited to participate in the Mr. Gay USA at Large (over 200 lb. only) on Sept 24 in Louisville, KY.

Still want more? Mr. Tennessee USA, Mr. Tennessee at Large, Mr. Tennessee Leather, Mr. Tennessee Levi, or Mr. Tennessee Cabaret. Gee, Mr. Ebony Leather would have never had to leave his state, had he known all of this! By the way has anyone seen Mr. Ebony Leather lately? oops! Do I hear plane reservations being made?

The latest info on last years DC Drummer boy-----he wants to become the new "Hedda Hopper" down in Virginia! I suppose he could cover the DC Boys of Leather, But then he's no longer a boy, according to his step down speech!!!!! hmmm

THE WICKED WITCH

FROM EAST TO WEST AND BACK

The old broom got a work out this past weekend. This inquiring mind wanted to witness three new sashes being bestowed upon the winners of the SF Leather Daddy contest, and the Northern California Drummer contest. Departing on a trip which I thought would be uneventful, turned out to be just the opposite.

Departing Saturday morning, to Boston and on to SF seemed simple enough. However, some 18 hours later I finally arrived in the city by the golden gate. Weather, delays, and cancellations caused me to miss the Leather Daddy contest and the Drummer contest.

Arriving at close to midnight Saturday, I met up with the winners already celebrating at various bars through out the city. I bumped into Keith Truitt, San Francisco Leather Daddy 2000. There were only two contestants. Keith however, has become a workhorse in the community and deserved the title. Congratulations to Keith. I know he will do a fine job. And to think there were those nay-sayers who proclaimed that two people of color could not win that title back to back....WRONG!!!

Saturday evening Rod Wood snatched the Northern California Drummer title. Terry Gauchet who is SF Drummer boy, became the new Northern CA. Drummer boy. Both will compete in Florida next month at the International Drummer competition. The Drummer finals should prove to be very interesting this year. There are some very outstanding men and boys vying for that title.

Sunday turned out to be a perfect day weather-wise for the annual Dore Alley Fair. Many have defined that fair as a dress rehearsal for the Folsom Street Fair. Over the years that comment has proved to be quite untrue. The real leather people attend this event in droves. The nice part about it is, the fact that you are not pushed, shoved, stepped on, and tripping over baby strollers, cats, dogs, snakes, monkeys and hoards of wide-eyed straights.

The Dore Alley fair will always have a special place in my heart, because of the person who thought the whole thing up. A young, vibrant, International Mr. Leather 1985, Patrick Toner put this event on the map and in the leather history books. Originally, it was known as Up Your Alley when it debuted on Ringold Alley. It eventually out grew the space and the complaints from some of the residents. SMMILE, the producers of the event have gone to great effort to make sure this is one of "the" events to attend every year. Thanks Members of SMMILE, for a job well done, and to keep the memory of Patrick, Jerry, and Christian flourishing.

Now we all know how political SF can be. This election year, has become the year for many leather people to toss their hats in the political ring. SF has a former Mr. SF Leather (Gary Virginia) running for a Supervisor seat in that city. Of course we have American Leather boy Jerry Acosta running for a State Senate Seat in Vermont. Once again the leather community is out there taking a stand and dealing with the issues.

They may not be your choice, but you must respect them and acknowledge that they are not taking a back seat on dealing with issues that somehow affect all of us one way or the other..No matter what the outcome in November, I admire them, and the many other lesbians and gays who have stepped out in front and are running for office in cities and states across this land.

Less than 24 hours after I left the East coast, I returned to the very cool, no humidity "big apple" where there is always something happening and parties galore.

In the nations capital, several interesting things have occurred. The DC Eagle has a new owner. Bill Cappello, longtime manager, has taken over the reigns of that famous establishment. The paperwork proclaimed him the new owner last week. Although this is not news to the DC Eagle customers, Those who know Mr. Cappello, have already seen changes taking effect. The pool table that was on the second floor, is now on the main floor along side the other table.

A remodeled bathroom is in the works, and a host of other surprises are in store. Congratulations to Bill, and best wishes go the lovable, former owner Dick McHugh, who can now devote his time to one of his favorite hobbies restoring those beautiful Packard's housed in that six car garage (or at least purchasing one or two more).

A few blocks away from the Eagle another suprise is in store for DC residents. The word is out. Glenn Mlaker, Mr., DC Eagle 98, is opening a new restaurant and bar. It will be open this fall. Renovations are moving right along on the bldg. Those visiting from out of town will be pleased to know it is only crawling distance from the Washington Plaza Hotel, and the Crew Club (the baths). How convenient!

It will be called Hamburger Marys, yes the same name as the original located in SF. Yes, a deal cut with the owners to allow Glenn to use that name. From what is being said, there will be a fabulous dance floor, and terrific music. A full liquor bar will be provided.

I have no idea when the first leather contest will be held there. Somehow, Mr. Hamburger Marys Leather does not have the right ring to it.. According to my sources, the second floor will be named or called "Titan." Now, a Mr. Titan Leather has the right ring should he decide to have a couple of "heavy duty" nights!

Anticipation is growing with regard to this new venture. Anyone who has met Glenn, knows that his personality and good looks and good business sense, are all the right ingredients for a sucessful establishment. I can hardly wait for the doors to open.

WOULD THIS BE A COLUMN WITHOUT DISH?

Imagine going to IMsL in Toronto, and being detained for three hours by customs, becuse you had two cartons of cigarettes, which you purchased at the duty free shop. Thats exactly what happend to Philip Turner, owner of DADDYS in SF. Poor man was totally undone, and his boy was a wreck, when they made him leave the airport without his Daddy. According to Phillip, if he never sees Canada again, it will be too soon for him.

The kickoff campaign party For SF Board of Supervisors candidate Gary Virginia, turned out to be a blackout party for said candidate, when all the power went off at the Edge Bar. The power was out so long that the bar closed for the rest of the evening. Imagine on a Saturday night? I don't suppose one of the other candidates had anything to do with that? It is rather strange that was the only bldg. in the entire Castro without power. Hmmm, I, SEE!

The San Francisco Bare Chest calendar 2001 is certainly striking, and the current Mr. SF Leather is on the cover. They make great stocking stuffers.

Former Int Drummerboy Ryan Goldner has his Singer just humming whipping new frocks for Olympia. The wait and see question is--- who will be wearing them?

Washington, DC friends of Luther Brown, will be pleased to know that he has fallen in love with SF. He and his significant other are living happily ever after, well, at least for this month!

Was that really Frank Nowicki swapping spit with the former president of the Knighthawks, of VA? In a dark corner of the DC Eagle. And yes he was there when the lights came up at 3 am! And no hair dryer!

The Wicked Witch

MID SUMMER MUSINGS
July 22nd, 2000

Months seem to go by, where everything is quiet. However, that is always subject to change. There always seems to be something, or someone to take the joy out of life.

I am refering to the treatment of some of our beloved leather title holders. International, regional, and especially many on local levels. I cannot for the life of me believe that once you win a title, sponsors, and those who are suppose to support you, suddenly dismiss that person as if they were yesterdays newspaper.

A perfect example of this, is the treatment a number of title holders received once they returned from IML and did not capture the golden ring. In several cities, the winner of that title did not even receive any acknowledgement once they returned home. Dismissed and kicked to the curb so to speak.

Denver seems to have a penchant for that type of treatment of some of their titleholders. Of course this is nothing new for Denver. This goes back to 1984. Whats with bar owners and sponsors, who behave in this fashion?

It is no wonder, that our younger generation of leathermen and women are reluctant to persue their dreams. No travel money,and in many cases, some contestants had to provide their own transportation and hotel accomodations to the competition that generally is held many miles away from their home. Either do it right, or don't do it at all.

Many contestants it has been discovered, had to pay for their own sashes, or vests when they have won the title. If a bar or sponsor cannot provide the necessary items then it should be made known to the contestants and the winner beforehand.

Many contestants have had to go to great lengths just to get the necessary applications to enter a major contest such as IML because their sponsor dropped the ball. Applications should be provided by the sponsoring parties and the entry fees paid if necessary.

Once the contestant has won, in many cases, contact from the sponsor ceases. No advice, no assistance and most of all very little support. This is a deplorable situation.

The womens leather community and the represenatives carrying those titles are not immuned from this situation as well. You wonder why in many cases there are only one or two contestants (sometimes only one)? Therein lies your answer.

Of course this is not always the case. Many wonderful and supportive sponsors have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Able Productions, Maryland Drummer, Pennsylvania Drummer, Philadelphia Leather, Virginia, and DC, Clubs like the Hiwaymen, Centaurs, Potomac M/C, Utica Tris, Philadelphians, Stars, and the Ottawa Knights just to name a few have all done exceptional jobs. There are many more as well. Why then, are there those who haven't a clue as to how to treat their titled men and women? Could it be that they are only in it for the self glory and gratification?

Then of course we have those who are constantly seeking prizes from businesses for auctions and the like. During the rest of their year, do not even patronize the establishment that made the donation. Whats with that? To add insult to injury, many times the business or individual does not even receive a thank you note. More businesses are becoming less inclined to donate anything. Yet, they are slammed if they do not participate at the drop of a hat.

Hey people, wake up and smell the coffee. If the shoe fits, then slip it on!!

D MEANS DISH!

Former VA Drummer boy (Kyle) is still trying to get over his encounter at a hotel in Baltimore. Kyle who has been known to get locked in a bathroom when the door knob came off, found himself in the middle of a robbery when he checked into a tasteful "Charm City" hotel. Fortunately he was not harmed. The only noise that was heard was the cockring falling to the floor.

Congratulations to Pam Meyer, IMSL 99.A splendid year. You made friends from coast to coast. I am sure you will have some words of wisdom to pass on to the new IMSL regarding dealing with producers. Or make that singular!

Look out DC, Sir Lady Charles, the hysterically funny Philadephian M/C member, is moving your way. God only knows, what will be in store for the Leather crowd. Hatboxes? Wig cases? Leather? Or all of the aforementioned!

Interesting how many of DC's fabled leathermen have been seen shopping in the major fabric stores. But then the Centaurs Olympia is fast approaching. Some members of the Philadelphians have pretty much snatched up all the good fabric in the city of brotherly love. We know Ryan Goldner, would not be caught dead in another chartreuse green mermaid outfit!

I wonder if Intl Bootblack 99 (Bob "iron balls" Ehrlich) will retain his title at Olympia this year?

In the city by the golden gate, many people are wondering if there should be an audit of the books of the famed organization SMMILE ? Possibly MESS with the Folsom Street Fair organization. Just what the community needs--another scandal? I think not.

On a brighter note, See what happens when you are first runner-up? Richard Fox, Mr. PA Drummer 2000 made a decision to resign for personal reasons. First runner-up David Labriola stepped into the spotlight, and won the Mr. Mid Atlantic Drummer 2000 title. Sometimes it pays to be just a heartbeat away from the throne.

The Wicked Witch

SUMMER TIME AND THE LIVIN IS EASY, OR, GREASY

The month of June flew by with so many events and gay pride celebrations, that it was hard to keep up with everything and everyone. In the nations capital, the Potomac M/C hosted their annual River Run.

Always a pleasant and fun weekend. The cruise down the Potomac is something not to be missed. Unfortunately, I did due to work problems. However, I did not miss the DC Drummer and Drummerboy contest the following night. I also did not miss the announcement of outgoing DC Drummerboy 99 (Eric), that he was no longer a "boy." I suppose his knee pads will be up for auction in the not too distant future.

Most of the audience was taken aback. All I could say was "OH WELL." With the selection of Alexander Robinson, as Mr., DC Drummer 2000, and Allen Pittinger as DC Drummerboy, most in attendance breathed a sigh of relief that there would not be a major announcement at the end of their title year as to a role reversal.

The same weekend brought the DC pride celebration and parade. The parade had to be one of the shortest in history..43 minutes. It took the drag queens longer than that to put on their makeup. which was running like water from a faucet, in the near 100 degree heat..Not a pretty sight.

The following weekend attention was given to the Big Apple, as well as DC. Folsom Street east in New York, and The DC Boys of Leather in Washington. Folsom Street east has gone on for several years. Taking the name from the infamous Street fair in SF. However this fair is more likely to be compared to a big block party.

The entire fair is exactly one block long, The LURE bar holds court in the middle of that block. Any new comer to that west side area must be prepared to deal with the smell of butchered, smelly meat as the area is the wholesale meat arena. The aroma becomes stronger, the warmer it becomes during the day.

Smell not withstanding, the evening auction raises thousands for several local charities. That event is always well attended and the stars of the leather community and the porn industry support this event one hundred percent.

The DC Boys of Leather held their first major event on Father's Day weekend (why not)? Founded a little over a year ago by Ray Hall, a former Mr., DC Eagle. The club has gained much notoriety on the East and west coasts. Their newly elected president Brian "pup" Mullikin is a real cutie, and a go- getter.

I am not sure if there is a mandatory height restriction, but no one seems to be much over 5 feet tall. They have been compared to matching sets of salt and pepper shakers, or better yet, BOOKENDS. What an outstanding bunch of boys If you are interested in more information, check out their web site www.DCBoysof Leather.org. P> June quickly ran into July, and all the happenings surrounding the 4th of July. If you are into extravaganzas then once again NYC was the place to be to witness the arrival of the Tall Ships. What beautiful sailing vessels they are. From all around the world, they sailed into New York harbor. Some of the most gorgeous navy men that you have ever seen. The Navy men from Ecuador got my vote. The grand finale of course were the fireworks.

New York certainly gave it's residents their money's worth this year. Three days later, attention on the East coast was focused on Baltimore, MD. where the Baltimore Eagle hosted the Mid Atlantic Drummer and Drummerboy contest. Five contestants, competed for the Mr. Drummer title and five contestants competed for the Drummerboy title.

DC--Alexander Robinson, Drummer, Allen Pittinger, Drummerboy MD--Paul Bohli, Drummer, Bill Finnerty,Drummerboy PA--David Labriola, Drummer, Derick Rojas, Drummerboy VA--David Krobien, Drummer, Darren Cole, Drummerboy W.VA --Stephen Blake, Drummer, Jeremy Crook, Drummerboy

Each and everyone were excellent contestants and representatives of their local communities.

A very interesting panel of judges consisting of, Viola Johnson, Dan Noel, Bob Rourke, Fraser Picard, Victor Varella, and Mike Taylor, did not have an easy task selecting this years winners When the scores were tallied, one to four points separated the winner from the runner ups.

Frank Nowicki the Emcee for the weekend, announced David Labriola as the new Mid Atlantic Drummer 2000. The previous evening Derick Rojas was named Mid Atlantic Drummerboy 2000. Both will compete At IMD, in September. Congratulations to all the wonderful contestants, A special acknowledgment was given to MD Drummer, Paul Bohli, winner of the brotherhood award, sometimes known as the Miss Congeniality award. The recipient is selected by the other contestants. Way to go Paul!

The Drummer contest was held at a new site. Although a distance from Baltimore, it was very nice. Now if we can just figure out how to talk the producers into holding the Drummer boy contest there as well, it would make for a fabulous weekend. It is very obvious that the producers of the Mid Atlantic Drummer event have worked very hard to make the weekend a first class event, and it showed.

THY CUP RUNNETH OVER WITH DISH.....

The words surprise, mystified and what? were clearly on the minds of many Drummer attendees, when they read in the program that FIST, a Baltimore based women's group was a sponsor of the Mid Atlantic Drummer and Drummerboy contest. No one was more surprised than the EXECUTIVE PRODUCER.........

SPEAKING OF PROGRAMS.....

Is there truth to the rumor, that a proofreader, will be hired before the next Drummer program is printed? One can only hope that the names of former title holders will be spelled correctly, and titles correctly worded.

And to that former LEATHER title holder who put in an appearance at the Mid Atlantic Drummer contest who thanked a columnist for not "DISHING" Him previously: Well, my dear, why bother? Nearly every publication across the country has already done that. My only concern is, how do we get rid of the "black eye" that was placed upon the entire gay community, and the leather community in particular?

FROM THE HORSE'S MOUTH.......

Two well known leathermen from DC. were overheard discussing the new restaurant and leather bar they are planning to open in the not too distant future. Yes, the establishment will be located in DC in the Northwest section of the city, If this proves to be true, a large AMEN, will be heard from the Potomac to the Anacosta rivers. Of course a city the size of DC can support two leather watering holes...stay tuned.

No one seems to know what to make of the rumor emulating from the DC area that a former resident of DC will be relocating to the windy city and investing with several other financial backers to take over IML, which would include (so he says) the Renslow enterprises? Most who have heard this story, find it hard to believe. Who knows? Is this fact or pure fiction? Stay tuned.....

Many in NYC are wondering if the founder of the original Mr. Leather, NY contest, is really seriously looking for a place to open, which would bring back the memories of the Mindshaft, and the recently closed NY Eagle.

The doorman on duty at the LURE in NYC, certainly was not on his "J" last Saturday night. when it was duly noted that over a half a dozen men were seen wearing sneakers in that dress code bar. hmmmm

Talking about Jaws dropping, when the newest Gulf Coast Drummer boy, 2000 announced that his Daddy sent fondest regards to all in the Charm City (Baltimore) and Who is his daddy? Former Mid Atlantic Leather Mike Siemer....I see..........

Evidently, the phrase, "boys should be seen and not heard" definitely does not apply to American Leatherboy 1999, Jerry Acosta, not only will be seen, he definitely will be heard if he has his way. Jerry announced last week that he is a candidate for the state senate seat in Vermont! He is campaigning across the state, He is accepting contributions For his campaign. Lets hear it for Jerry,

Upon hearing the news, one gay business man, was heard to say; "Gee, from boot licker, to ass kisser, of course that same person also ran for a council seat in his home town! EXCEPT HE LOST!" I hardly think of Jerry as an ass kisser, We all wish him only the best. We will keep our eyes and ears open as the November elections come up in the State of Vermont.

HEY, WEST VIRGINIA....

To the two wonderful contestants from W., VA, considering all that you had to go through to come to Baltimore, especially with that disastrous contest, you are very special leathermen and the audience appreciated your participation and becoming a part of the leather family....As for Maxx, thanks for giving them the encouragement and support. Leather folks think YOU should produce the contest next year.

International Mr. "Who-Haw" 2000, (Mike Taylor) is without a doubt the most gracious down to earth person that I have had the pleasure of meeting in quite some time. I am sure many of you will get a chance to meet him during his title year. Baltimore was thrilled to have him as a judge in his first contest since winning the title in May,,,He is really a man with a mission , ready to help educate our next generation.