Upcoming Events

Again, we are shifting our gear-up gathering that is normally at Redwing to the Hole this Sunday, but early (2PM), so we can take over the upper deck and show off our gear in utter splendor. It's a great way to show pride, and to enroll more guys into the FetishMen phenomenon!

The weekend after this one is going to be CRAZY BUSY CROWDED again, with DRESS IT UP coinciding with STUD NIGHT with Michael Brandon at the Eagle on Friday the 9th, and the new, expanded version of the ridiculously successful BELT PARTY on Saturday March 10th at Numbers.  If you normally never get around to going out, this might be your best weekend so far to shoehorn yourself into some gear and make the scene.  You're seriously missing out otherwise!

-=-=-=-=-=- UPCOMING EVENTS

Fri, Mar. 2, 7-9PM;  SDLOG educational event, this month: HANDS-ON FLOGGING. First Friday of each month. at the Joyce Beers Community Center, by the Aladdin restaurant near Ralph's supermarket on University.

Sat. Mar. 3, 9PM-1AM: GEAR NIGHT AT PECS, organized by Michael.

Sat. Mar. 3, 9PM-2AM; BearNight Dance at Numbers. $5 before 10PM. First Sat. of each month. Lots of leathermen attend this event, and it comes highly recommended… Here are some reviews.

Sun. Mar. 4, 2PM, CIGARS & BOOTS on the upper level at the Hole. First Sun. of each month. We are changing the location as a test, so be sure to wear whatever gear makes you feel extra-sexy!  If you like a low-pressure, comfortable event with men that you can relate to, this one is for you. 

Wed. Mar. 7, 7-9PM: MEN'S MONTHLY DISCUSSIONS.  Moderated by California LeatherSir 2012 Sam. This has turned out to be ideal for building friendships by getting to know men outside of the bar/cruising scene. First and third Wednesday of each month. Theme: CREATING CHANGE

Wed. Mar. 7, 9PM: PUPPY NIGHT at the Eagle, hosted by Beep and San Diego Puppy Patrol (SDPP). First Wed. of each month.

Thu. Mar. 8 at 9pm till 1am; Red Hankie Social Night at the Eagle.  Second Thu. of each month

Fri. Mar. 9, 9PM-1AM: DRESS IT UP/STRIP IT DOWN at the Eagle; 2nd Fri. of each month. Hosted by Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 Eli. It's the nicest, friendliest crowd you'll see at a leather bar. Here are a few reviews, if you haven't been to one yet. Dress to impress if you've got the gear, or show us some skin - I promise you'll be glad that you did. Here are some pictures from Oct., February, March, April, June and September. Notice how HAPPY everybody is. You deserve to be that happy too.

Fri. Mar. 9, 10:00PM: STUD Night at the Eagle.  Come out and play with the BAD BoyZ of Porn!  Tonight's special guest is Michael Brandon.

Sat. Mar. 10, 9PM onward: UNIFORM NIGHT at the Eagle. Wear Military Gear or Civil Uniform Gear. Second Sat. of each month.

Sat. Mar 10, 7-9PM: CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR BOY JOE CROTEAU at NUMBERS, followed by…

Sat. Mar. 10: BELT Party at Numbers. I will be celebrating 35 years in the Leather/Kink/Fetish Tribe that evening, so come help me celebrate a life well misspent!

Wed. Mar. 14, 7-10PM: FilmOut San Diego presents The Bodyguard at the Birch North Park Theatre. $10 cash at the door, and bring extra cash for the fabulous raffle items!   Upcoming movies: Apr 18th-Cry-Baby, May 16th-Sordid Lives.

Wed. Mar. 14, 7-9PM: MEN'S MONTHLY DISCUSSIONS. Moderated by California LeatherSir 2012 Sam. This has turned out to be ideal for building friendships by getting to know men outside of the bar/cruising scene. First and third Wednesday of each month. No theme for this session - It's Open Discussion time!

Wed. Mar. 14, 7-11PM: TNG social event at Bamboo Lounge. TNG stands for "The Next Generation", which is a kinky social group for younger men and women from 18 to 35 years old. This particular event is in the style of a group discussion. Third Wednesday of each month.

Thu. Mar. 15, 9-PM-Midnight: Yellow Hankie Social Night at the Eagle. First and Third Thu. of each month.

Fri. Mar. 16, 8:30PM-1AM: FRIDAY NIGHT BEAT AND GREET, downtown, hosted by Bryan Teague - American Leatherboy 2010, tiger - Ms San Diego Leather 2010, caryl - San Diego's premier Sea Monkey Trainer, and Mike Underwood - San Diego's very own Curmudgeonly teddy bear. Third Fri. of each month. This is a GREAT educational event if you want some hands-on training in a safe environment.

Sat. Mar. 17, 9:30PM-2AM: LL Bear Dance Party @ Rich's San Diego  Here is my review of this event.

Mr. LA Leather 2012 Contest Weekend Highlights:

Thursday, March 22: 

Southland Honors - Awards Party

Friday, March 23:

BBQ Bondage Throw Down - Pansexual bondage play party at Sanctuary LAX

Mr. LA Leather Cigar Social - The LA Eagle

Uniform & Leather Party - Formal uniform and leather reception with the Regiment, California B&B Corps & BLUF

Saturday, March 24

Tow to Tow - Mr. LA Leather Contest and Meat Rack - Off the Hook

Anvil Club - Men only Extreme Dress Code Party at Threshold

Sunday, March 25

Mr LA Leather Victory Brunch - Celebrate with the new Mr LAL at Oil Can Harry’s

Street Fair - Pansexual, multi-fetish street fair at Threshold

Thu. Mar. 22, 9PM-Midnight: INK & STEEL at the Eagle. Do you like tattoos? What about piercings? This night is for guys like you! This month we're having a Best Tattoo Contest,  with the winner selected by people in the bar. It will be at 10 p.m.

Sat. Mar 24, 10pm: Underwear Party and Contest at the Eagle.  Fourth Sat. of each month. Everyone is invited to strip down to those boxers,  briefs or "street" legal jocks and join in the fun,  you do not have to enter the contest. Although our 1st prize is $100 Cash and 2nd prize is a $25 bar tab., Clothes check opens at 10pm and the contest will be held at midnight. Your evening will be hosted by Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012,  Eli.

Sun. Mar. 25, 4-7PM: POUR YOUR SUPPORT FOR SPECIAL DELIVERY benefit at Jakes. Wine-tasting and dinner.

March 29-Apr. 1: International Ms. Leather 2012 contest in San Francisco.

Fri. Mar. 30, 8:30PM-1AM: MEN-ONLY Fri. NIGHT BEAT AND GREET, downtown, hosted by Bryan Teague - American Leatherboy and Mike Underwood - San Diego's very own Curmudgeonly teddy bear. The Men-Only version is on the FIFTH Fri. of each month, such as June 29, August 31 and Nov. 30th of 2012. There will be hands-on training for folks who want to learn from experts in a very safe environment. I will be there, teaching flogging as usual.

Thu. Apr. 5, 9-PM-Midnight: Yellow Hankie Social Night at the Eagle. First and Third Thu. of each month.

Sun. Apr. 15, 1PM: Bus Trip to Long Beach, hosted by the San Diego Eagle. We shall be visiting at least three bars: Pistons,  Crest and Motherlode. The cost is unchanged from the last time - $45. This includes transportation,  food on the way to LB,  open bar. Tickets will be available at the bar. For the last Eagle Bus Trip we sold out and had to increase the size of the bus at the last minute. Be sure to buy your ticket at the bar early.

Sat. Apr. 21, 9PM-3AM: ANVIL CLUB up in the San Fernando Valley. I give it a rave review here. Upcoming dates include June 23, August 24 (Rubber), Oct. 20 (Uniforms) and Dec. 15.

May 25-28: International Mr. Leather 2012 Contest Weekend in Chicago.

Jul 26-29, INTERNATIONAL LEATHER SIR/BOY, INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY BOOT BLACK in San Francisco.

Sunday, July 29: Up Your Alley Street Fair in San Francisco.

Sunday, September 23: Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco.

November 8-11: Palm Springs Leather Pride

Social Column

-=-=-=- UPCOMING BENEFIT EVENTS FOR SPECIAL DELIVERY

I admit it - I have a soft spot in my heart for Special Delivery. Ruth is the closest thing that I know of to being a true saint on earth. She has been running SD for over two decades, and her dedication to the cause of feeding those in need is complete and authentic.

Special Delivery doesn't get big government grants, and sometimes the shelves are empty, despite their best efforts. 91 percent of their income goes directly to their hundreds of clients, who are in great need. Many high-profile groups can't say as much, and sometimes we need to be cautious about where our donations go. The volunteers work tirelessly, and the place rarely closes.

As time goes by, I will briefly mention events that benefit Special Delivery. I promise to not to make it a big deal, but I do want to help these fine folks when I can.  Here is the first one:

Sun. Mar. 25, 4-7PM: POUR YOUR SUPPORT FOR SPECIAL DELIVERY benefit at Jakes. Wine-tasting and dinner.

I don't do much talking about fundraisers here on the list, because I don't want FMSD to be perceived as just another sneaky way to treat people as cash-dispensers. Money is tight in the current economy, and I know that it's hard to find a way to donate to others. I will try to limit the appeals, because they are endless in our modern culture.

-=-=-=-=-=- GEAR NIGHT AT PECS, THIS SATURDAY

This is being organized by Michael, who shows up at most of the FMSD gear events (with a slave on a leash, or uniform, or in serious spandex), and now he's organizing one of his own Gear Nights.   Most guys never shift from Complaint Phase ("How come nobody ever does anything that I want?") to Action Phase ("I'm the man to do it!"). 

Let's reward that kind of leadership:

From: Michael, <lists@sdrocksnroads.com>

Saturday, March 03, 2012 · 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pecs Bar
2046 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104
Cost:      $0 - Support the bar - Get drinks!
Dress code:        Gear - Uniform, Latex, Wetsuits, Lycra, Leather, Sports

Got gear? Want to show it off? Come on out to Pecs on Saturday, March 3 from 9pm to 1pm. Wear your uniform, your lycra/spandex, your latex, your leather, your sports gear, and bondage. The more gear the better!  I encourage full gear when possible, but all are welcome in any amount. We all live in this town, we're all kinksters, so let’s kink up the place!

-=-=-=-=-=- PUPPY PLAY, EXPLAINED

This whole "Puppy" phenomenon (and yes, it is taking off like a serious phenomenon) is something that puzzles many people, so I asked Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 First Runner-Up Pup Beep, the dynamic young man who runs the VERY successful Puppy Play nights at the Eagle, to tell us more about what is happening:

I get the question, "What is puppy play/ What is puppy night?", ALL the time, and it can be difficult answering sometimes.

Puppy Night is always the first Wednesday of the month at The San Diego Eagle. What started out as a regularly slow, Wednesday night has turned into one of The Eagle's most popular nights! I think the key to this is simple, which is NO other bar or club is doing anything like this in San Diego! It's different, interesting, and most importantly, fun!  In fact, a good number or people who come to Puppy Night regularly don't even identify as pups or they're not 'into' puppy play. They just keep coming back out of curiosity and love the energy Puppy Night has. Plus, puppies love attention, so outsiders are always welcomed with sniffs, nuzzles, and woofs.

 

Things you'll always be able to expect or see/hear on any given puppy night would be barking, howling, nuzzles, sniffing, drinking out of dog bowls, playing in cages (or the kennel), being walked on leashes, collars, tails, chew toys, and treats (eating out of another ones hand) just to name a few! Pups have an array of various fashions such as wrestling singlets, knee and wrist pads (since some are walking on all fours a lot), full body rubber or latex suits, puppy masks, leather, and many others!

 

The great thing about Puppy Night or just puppy play in general is all the different kinds of pups it involves. I do the best I can to bring out all types and make them feel welcomed. You'll see traditional pups who are very obedient and submissive looking for trainers or masters if they don't have one already, and then you'll see the strays, who are the exact opposite and like to run wild and stand on their own. Plus, everything in between, including various packs that have started to form amongst pups outside the bar. Also, an important thing to remember is YES, there are female pups!!! Last Puppy night I was happy to see more women involved and participating!

 

In the beginning I did a lot of marketing and advertising until the event picked up some steam. Lately, I've noticed I had to do less and less marketing, and it appears 'word-of-mouth' is spreading like wild fire. People are talking about the event and are genuinely intrigued and want to learn more which is great! I highly recommend the event to anyone who think they may enjoy it, are curious, or just flat out want to experience something different and let loose with the pups for a night! It's a howling fun time! Woof!

Let me know if  there is anymore information I can give you and thanks again for the interest!

 

Woof,

Beep

GEAR NIGHT AT PECS, This Saturday, March 3

This is being organized by Michael, who shows up at most of the FMSD gear events (with a slave on a leash, or uniform, or in serious spandex), and now he's organizing one of his own Gear Nights.   Most guys never shift from Complaint Phase ("How come nobody ever does anything that I want?") to Action Phase ("I'm the man to do it!"). 

Let's reward that kind of leadership:

From: Michael

Saturday, March 03, 2012 · 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pecs Bar
2046 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104
Cost:      $0 - Support the bar - Get drinks!
Dress code:        Gear - Uniform, Latex, Wetsuits, Lycra, Leather, Sports

Got gear? Want to show it off? Come on out to Pecs on Saturday, March 3 from 9pm to 1pm. Wear your uniform, your lycra/spandex, your latex, your leather, your sports gear, and bondage. The more gear the better! I encourage full gear when possible, but all are welcome in any amount. We all live in this town, we're all kinksters, so let’s kink up the place!

Men's Discussion: Creating Change

Back in December, the call went out for a special Men's Discussion, that urged the men of San Diego's fetish community to show up and talk about making a difference in our community.  As a result, we had:

- The largest attendance ever (as shown in this photo - we ran out of chairs!), and 

- Five A-Level contestants that showed up for the Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 contest a couple of months later, with hearts full of idealism and energy that impressed the heck out of everyone there.

Now, it's time for the second part of the series.  Here is California Leather Sir 2012 Sam's invitation:

-=-=-=-=-

MEN'S DISCUSSION: Creating Change

What Do You Want To See Changing In Our Community????

WHEN: 7-9PM, Wednesday, March 7, 2012

HOW MUCH: Free of charge, with an entirely optional donation to show appreciation for the use of the space.

WHY: We are on the brink of something truly great, a new leather generation. The “old” way of doing things are fading and becoming obsolete. The question is what we are going to do about it… build something new. 

This meeting is all about sharing and coming up with some things that we would like to see grow and flourish.  Not just talk about it, but plan on doing it, getting the information and resources to start something truly great. The best part is, you can be the one of the men that started or helped. So this is a shout out to all of us that want to see change or improve or start something. Something to think about; what does your idea of a good community/ brotherhood look like?

Past Discussion Topics: Long-Term Relationships, Vanilla/Kink Relationships, Titleholders/Community-oriented, Puppies, Transmen, Racism.

Future Possible Discussion Topics: HIV-positive guys, HIV-negative guys, military and veterans, rubber men, boot fetishists, Masters/slaves, Bears, younger/older relationships, Know-It-Alls and Newbies, and on and on…

Upcoming Events

-=-=-=-=-=- UPDATES

FilmOut San Diego has changed their movie for March, in honor of Whitney Houston's death. They will be showing The Bodyguard at the Birch North Park Theatre on March 14th. Diva alert!

-=-=-=-=-=- UPCOMING EVENTS

Sat. Feb. 25, 10pm: Underwear Party and Contest at the Eagle.  Fourth Sat. of each month.

Thu. Mar. 1, 9-PM-Midnight: Yellow Hankie Social Night at the Eagle. First and Third Thu. of each month.

Fri, Mar. 2, 7-9PM;  SDLOG educational event, this month: HANDS-ON FLOGGING. First Friday of each month. at the Joyce Beers Community Center, by the Aladdin restaurant near Ralph's supermarket on University.

Sat. Mar. 3, 9PM-2AM; BearNight Dance at Numbers. $5 before 10PM. First Sat. of each month. Lots of leathermen attend this event, and it comes highly recommended… Here are some reviews.

Sun. Mar. 4, 2PM, CIGARS & BOOTS on the upper level at the Hole. First Sun. of each month. We are changing the location as a test, so be sure to wear whatever gear makes you feel extra-sexy!  If you like a low-pressure, comfortable event with men that you can relate to, this one is for you. 

Wed. Mar. 7, 7-9PM: MEN'S MONTHLY DISCUSSIONS.  Moderated by California LeatherSir 2012 Sam. This has turned out to be ideal for building friendships by getting to know men outside of the bar/cruising scene. First and third Wednesday of each month. Here is a picture from the December 21 event. It's a great excuse for the generations to meet, build friendships and share mentoring. No theme for this session - It's Open Discussion time!

Wed. Mar. 7, 9PM: PUPPY NIGHT at the Eagle, hosted by Beep and San Diego Puppy Patrol (SDPP). First Wed. of each month.

Thu. Mar. 8 at 9pm till 1am; Red Hankie Social Night at the Eagle.  Second Thu. of each month

Fri. Mar. 9, 9PM-1AM: DRESS IT UP/STRIP IT DOWN at the Eagle; 2nd Fri. of each month. Hosted by Eli. It's the nicest, friendliest crowd you'll see at a leather bar. Here are a few reviews, if you haven't been to one yet. Dress to impress if you've got the gear, or show us some skin - I promise you'll be glad that you did. Here are some pictures from Oct., February, March, April, June and September. Notice how HAPPY everybody is. You deserve to be that happy too.

Fri. Mar. 9, 10:00PM: STUD Night at the Eagle.  Come out and play with the BAD BoyZ of Porn!  Tonight's special guest is Michael Brandon.

Sat. Mar. 10, 9PM onward: UNIFORM NIGHT at the Eagle. Wear Military Gear or Civil Uniform Gear. Second Sat. of each month.

Sat. Mar 10, 7-9PM: CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR BOY JOE CROTEAU at NUMBERS, followed by…

Sat. Mar. 10: BELT Party at Numbers. I will be celebrating 35 years in the Leather/Kink/Fetish Tribe that evening, so come help me celebrate a life well misspent!

Wed. Mar. 14, 7-10PM: FilmOut San Diego presents The Bodyguard at the Birch North Park Theatre. $10 cash at the door, and bring extra cash for the fabulous raffle items!   Upcoming movies: Apr 18th-Cry-Baby, May 16th-Sordid Lives.

Wed. Mar. 14, 7-9PM: MEN'S MONTHLY DISCUSSIONS. Moderated by California LeatherSir 2012 Sam. This has turned out to be ideal for building friendships by getting to know men outside of the bar/cruising scene. First and third Wednesday of each month. No theme for this session - It's Open Discussion time!

Wed. Mar. 14, 7-11PM: TNG social event at Bamboo Lounge. TNG stands for "The Next Generation", which is a kinky social group for younger men and women from 18 to 35 years old. This particular event is in the style of a group discussion. Third Wednesday of each month.

Thu. Mar. 15, 9-PM-Midnight: Yellow Hankie Social Night at the Eagle. First and Third Thu. of each month.

Fri. Mar. 16, 8:30PM-1AM: FRIDAY NIGHT BEAT AND GREET, downtown, hosted by Bryan Teague - American Leatherboy 2010, tiger - Ms San Diego Leather 2010, caryl - San Diego's premier Sea Monkey Trainer, and Mike Underwood - San Diego's very own Curmudgeonly teddy bear. Third Fri. of each month. This is a GREAT educational event if you want some hands-on training in a safe environment.

Sat. Mar. 17, 9:30PM-2AM: LL Bear Dance Party @ Rich's San Diego  Here is my review of this event.

Mr. LA Leather 2012 Contest Weekend Highlights:

Thursday, March 22: 

Southland Honors - Awards Party

Friday, March 23:

BBQ Bondage Throw Down - Pansexual bondage play party at Sanctuary LAX

Mr. LA Leather Cigar Social - The LA Eagle

Uniform & Leather Party - Formal uniform and leather reception with the Regiment, California B&B Corps & BLUF

Saturday, March 24

Tow to Tow - Mr. LA Leather Contest and Meat Rack - Off the Hook

Anvil Club - Men only Extreme Dress Code Party at Threshold

Sunday, March 25

Mr LA Leather Victory Brunch - Celebrate with the new Mr LAL at Oil Can Harry’s

Street Fair - Pansexual, multi-fetish street fair at Threshold

March 29-Apr. 1: International Ms. Leather 2012 contest in San Francisco.

Fri. Mar. 30, 8:30PM-1AM: MEN-ONLY Fri. NIGHT BEAT AND GREET, downtown, hosted by Bryan Teague - American Leatherboy and Mike Underwood - San Diego's very own Curmudgeonly teddy bear. The Men-Only version is on the FIFTH Fri. of each month, such as June 29, August 31 and Nov. 30th of 2012. There will be hands-on training for folks who want to learn from experts in a very safe environment. I will be there, teaching flogging as usual.

Sat. Apr. 21, 9PM-3AM: ANVIL CLUB up in the San Fernando Valley. I give it a rave review here. Upcoming dates include June 23, August 24 (Rubber), Oct. 20 (Uniforms) and Dec. 15.

May 25-28: International Mr. Leather 2012 Contest Weekend in Chicago.

Sunday, July 29: Up Your Alley Street Fair in San Francisco.

Sunday, September 23: Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco.

November 8-11: Palm Springs Leather Pride

Social Column

Lordy, lordy - So MUCH is happening in San Diego's community!  This message looks short, but it is packed FULL with more information than I've ever posted before, hidden in the links. This is digital information piled to the ceiling, metaphorically speaking. 

I'm going to take a moment to talk about the overall pattern that I'm perceiving:

-=-=-=-=- 2012 IS OUR BEST YEAR EVER

I couldn't help myself - I had to write a long article to gush about what I see as the reasons why we should be so joyful in San Diego. I was inspired by Anthony Ovaldson, Preston Steel, Eli Correa, Pup Beep and Hector Reyes, who competed for the title of Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012, by the staff, tallymasters and volunteers at the Eagle (and the wonderful Roxie, our emcee for the evening), the wise and prestigious judges, and by the superb crowd of attendees who were so numerous and yet so kind, unified and supportive. There was a line of men waiting to get in that reached the next street corner, and I'm guessing that at least a hundred more folks drove by, saw the line and decided to go home. How do I know? I heard from a lot of them.

I've posted four collections of pictures from the contest weekend here.

-=-=-=-=- CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR BOY JOE CROTEAU

From: Daddy Don

March 10, 2012 7:00pm until 9:00pm.  Numbers 3811 Park Blvd.

Please help me celebrate the life of my partner, Joe Croteau. Show him how much we miss him and love him. Let's give him the festive night he wanted. This will be a benefit for the Benjamin F. Dillingham Fund, which provides financial aid to those who cannot afford the funeral expenses of their loved one. $ 5 suggested donation, but no one will be turned away. Entertainment and food will be provided.

-=-=-=-=- LEATHERFOLKS WIN EMPRESS AND EMPEROR TITLES FOR SAN DIEGO

Mr. San Diego Leather 2011 Kurt attended the 2012 Imperial Court de San Diego's 2012 Coronation ball, and wrote a very nice synopsis. He did a great job, so check it out!

-=-=-=- GAY-FRIENDLY HOTELS, CONTINUED

Here is what I was sent about gay-friendly places to stay in San Diego:

The Lafayette on El Cajon Blvd is the perfect place - Bill

Kimpton Hotels have an LGBT rate, which is the Hotel Solamar and the Hotel Palomar, but you'll have to call them to ask for the rate since I don't have the right booking code to do it online.  Then there is always the Lafayette Hotel on El Cajon Blvd. - Chris

-=-=-=-=- SIZE 11 WESCO BOOTS FOR SALE

Hi Tony! I thought you'd be a good resource to find a new owner of my 18" wesco boots, size 11. You are well connected and might know of someone looking to purchase a pair of seldom worn boots. I am 5'10 and 18" is too tall for my comfort. If you don't know of anyone, is there an online boot forum I could try? Thanks in advance for your help!  Joshua Thompson <joshua928@gmail.com>

Photos from the Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 Contest Weekend

Many thanks to Kane and Rich for their photos. You're helping to document our history!

I wrote about this event in a separate article.

Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 Meet and Greet, Friday, February 17, 2012:

All five contestants waiting to be called on stage at the Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012's Meet and Greet, being watched over by Tom of Finland characters on February 17, 2012. From left to right - Anthony Ovaldson, Preston Steel, Eli Correa, Pup Beep and Hector Reyes.

Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 Contest, Saturday, February 18, 2012:

All eight judges, surrounded by the biggest crowd ever to fit inside the San Diego Eagle

Line outside bar, waiting for somebody to leave, so that somebody else could enter (original pic is ridiculously out of focus).

All five contestants, waiting to find out the winners. From left to right - Anthony Ovaldson,  Preston Steel,  Eli Correa, Hector Reyes and Pup Beep.

Contest judges, shown left to right in front of the contestants - Sandra McFarland, David Palmer, Kurt Wendelborg, Mike Russell, Karen Yew, Ray Busby,  Chris Owen, with Charlie Matula on the upper right.

Contestants with former Mr. San Diego Eagle titleholders - Front row: Ray Busby (????), David Palmer (2010), Kane (2011), Mike Little (2008), Russ Mortenson (2007) and Scott Moats (1996).

JOCKSTRAP PHOTOS:

Anthony

Pup Beep

Eli

Hector

Preston

FORMAL SPEECH PHOTOS

Anthony

Eli

Hector

Preston

Pup Beep

Eli being given his medallion by Sir Nicholas. Photo by Kane.

From left to right: Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 Eli, Mr. San Diego Leather 2011 Kurt, First Runner-Up Pup Beep, Mr. San Diego Eagle 2011 Kane, and Mr. San Diego Leather 2010 Anthony. Photo by Rich Filia of Big Black Boots.

2012 IS OUR BEST YEAR EVER

Pictures to go with this article are here.

On March 10th at the BELT party, I will be celebrating 35 years in San Diego's kink community. I have never, ever seen us doing so well as we are doing, right now. We may not have as many leather bars as we used to have, and heaven knows we could sure use the company of so many of our good leathermen that died before their time, but I have never seen so much unity, brotherhood, kindness, idealism and Tribe as we have right now, in 2012.

This is a big deal.  I'm stunned.  I'm boggled.  I can barely wrap my brain around it. And, it keeps getting better, month by month.

Back in the good old days of the 1970's, we were all on the same rocket-ship together, heading for the stars, but we had no idea what to do with it, other than smiting common enemies like Anita Bryant and the Briggs Initiative. We were in new territory, and we squandered a lot of opportunities because we defined ourselves PURELY by our sexuality. We were making up for lost time, compensating for the restrictions of our youth. Bathhouses and blue-ribbon play-parties for everybody!  I've had my share, and plenty more.  I've lived at least five full lifetimes, compared to the average person on the street.

Then, AIDS hit, and it was a terrible blow. We suffered, and grieved, and we clawed at each other in our despair and Survivor's Guilt. There were a lot of bad years, and we took a long, long time to get back on our feet. 

Suddenly, it is all falling together like magic. New generations have arrived, thankfully free of the baggage that my generation still drags around. Times are different, perspectives are fresher, ideas are newer, and everybody is ready for the Next Big Thing, which is clearly authentic brotherhood.  More and more cities are starting to shift gears, just as we did in San Diego.

The key is to get OUT, get personal and interrelate like a Tribe again. Pheromones, hugs, body-contact, hugs, body-language, hugs and intuitive reading of subtle clues are what we need, and what we are getting now. We went from no Internet at all, to too much Internet. The pendulum is swinging back toward balance, and we are using the Internet as a tool, not as a substitute for actual life.

I see friendships forming around me, that will still be around forty years from now. I see between seven and ten guys per week on average, practically marching up to me and DEMANDING to be added to FetishMenSanDiego's list, because they can see something wonderful around them changing rapidly, and they want to be in on it. Instead of tiny clusters of cliques surrounded by lonely individuals, the majority of men at all events are relaxed, happy, affectionate and playful.  The roar of continuous, joyful noise can't be faked, and it affects the new guys very strongly on a subconscious level. They want IN, dammit!

I see five contestants for the Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 contest whose body-language onstage showed that they may have been nervous about performing in front of a crowd, but they had NO fear of the crowd itself. They knew that they were loved. Nobody had any tomatoes to throw, and nobody treated them like pieces of meat parading around in a jockstrap. The respectful, kind and courteous dead silence during the speeches was a big clue. The roars of applause and cheering were generous and affectionate.  The judges were wise, serious and focused on finding leaders who were ready to work. All five men impressed the judges with their dedication, nobility and powerful dreams.

Behind the scenes, the young volunteers who worked with every ounce of their energy to make the contest flow smoothly, showed how good we can be, when we are at our best. I looked around me often during the contest, and I saw that the whole crew was 100% dedicated to making the evening a success, and it was.

In all of my years in our community, I've never seen true Tribe this clearly, and it is at twice the high level that it was a year ago. I can't fathom how it can get any better, but it will, whether old guys like me can keep up or not!  With young, powerful, idealistic and wonderful men like these, our future is in better hands than mine!

Leatherfolks win Empress and Emperor Titles for San Diego

Written by Mr. San Diego Leather 2011 Kurt:

We congratulate our new Emperor, Tom Dickerson, the Obsideon Double Dragon Emperor 40 and our new Empress, Lady Ajax now known as The Ruby Empress Ajax, Our Imperial Court de San Diego's Coronation XL was held at the Mission Valley Marriott on Saturday 2/11 and celebrated the 40th anniversary of service in our community, and was founded in 1971. The weekend events included an opening Tijuana Party at Redwing honoring the Coronation of the Emperor and Empress of Rio Tijuana and a benefit for the Tijuana AIDS Fund.

Friday's Imperial State Dinner had wonderful support from monarchs from all over the country at a regal formal dinner held at the Marriott and honoring four decades of service by Nicole Murray Ramirez. The Presentation of Colors was done by Kurt Wendelborg, Mr. San Diego Leather 2011, tiger, Ms. San Diego Leather 2010 and Mike Russell, International LeatherSir 2003.

Saturday's regal Coronation was hosted by Councilmember Todd Gloria and State Assembly Majority Whip Toni Atkins. The order for the evening included Harvey Milk Scholarship and books presentation to the San Diego Unified School District. The highlight of the evening were the two presentation performances by the contestants for Emporor and Empress, Mr. Tom Dickerson and the Lady Ajax. Mr. Dickerson's entourage was a stunning group  of our own Letaherfolk: Adam Latham (Mr. San Diego Leather 2004), Kurt Wendelborg (Mr. San Diego Leather 2011), Beanstalk (Ms. San Diego Leather 2011), tiger (Ms. San Diego Leather 2010), Anthony Rollar (Mr. San Diego Leather 2010 and IML 2nd Runner Up 2011), Mike Russell (International LeatherSir2003), Mickey D and Annie Romano (Ms. World Leather 2001)

Upcoming Events

-=-=-=-=-=- MR. SD EAGLE 2012 CONTEST THIS WEEKEND

This Friday and Saturday will be the most-crowded events at the San Diego Eagle in its entire history - Count on it. It's going to be crazy-crowded, line-extending-down-the-block attendance like you've never seen before.  I'm hearing from folks all over the place. Five contestants that I know of, and seven judges. I will be photographing, and making animal noises up near the front!

-=-=-=- RECOMMENDED HOTELS?

From: Dave in Palm Springs:

Some PSLOD members are coming into town this weekend and were wondering about a decent motel/hotel to stay in, either gay or gay friendly (well, one would probably stay in a bathouse ).  Do you have a few suggestions for them?

From: Tony - My recommendation was waaay out of date (the Hillcrest Inn, for example, is now a residence hotel).  Anybody have any good tips?

-=-=-=-=-=- UPDATES

My review of the Desert Fetish Authority (DFA) Kickoff event last week in Palm Springs is now posted. Our brother club in Palm Springs is off to a booming start!

I'm waiting for Kurt's review of the Imperial Court's Coronation Ball, and will pass it along once I get it - Two leatherfolk won, so congratulations to Emperor Tom and Empress Ajax!

I had the date wrong for the STUD PARTY at the Eagle.   It's going to be on March 10th, which is a Saturday. It's going to be a ridiculously crowded event, given who their celebrity guest is going to be.

For the next CIGARS & BOOTS event, we are shifting the location to the upper deck of the Sunday party at the Hole, but EARLY - 2PM.  That way, we get a chance to socialize at leisure, and then stick around for the usual nut-to-butt crowd of horny men that will surely follow.

-=-=-=-=-=- UPCOMING EVENTS

Wed. Feb. 15, 7-10PM: FilmOut San Diego presents Breakfast at Tiffany's at the Birch North Park Theatre. $10 cash at the door, and bring extra cash for the fabulous raffle items!   I will be there at 6:45PM SHARP with free tickets for my FMSD buddies, so get there early!  Upcoming movies: Mar 14th-HAIR, Apr 18th-Cry-Baby, May 16th-Sordid Lives.

Wed. Feb. 15, 7-9PM: MEN'S MONTHLY DISCUSSIONS. Moderated by California LeatherSir 2012 Sam. This has turned out to be ideal for building friendships by getting to know men outside of the bar/cruising scene. First and third Wednesday of each month. Topic of discussion is Racism.

Wed. Feb. 15, 7-11PM: TNG social event at Bamboo Lounge. TNG stands for "The Next Generation", which is a kinky social group for younger men and women from 18 to 35 years old. This particular event is in the style of a group discussion. Third Wednesday of each month.

Thu. Feb. 16, 9-PM-Midnight: Yellow Hankie Social Night at the Eagle. First and Third Thu. of each month.

Mr. San Diego Eagle Contest Weekend:

Fri. Feb 17, 10pm: Mr. San Diego Eagle MEET & GREET @ The Eagle
Sat. Feb 18, 9pm: Mr. San Diego Eagle 2012 CONTEST @ The Eagle

Sat. Feb. 18, 9:30PM-2AM: LL Bear Dance Party @ Rich's San Diego  Here is my review of this event.

Sat. Feb. 25, 10pm: Underwear Party and Contest at the Eagle. Hosted by the new Mr. SD Eagle 2012. Fourth Sat. of each month.

Thu. Mar. 1, 9-PM-Midnight: Yellow Hankie Social Night at the Eagle. First and Third Thu. of each month.

Fri, Mar. 2, 7-9PM;  SDLOG educational event, this month: HANDS-ON FLOGGING. First Friday of each month. at the Joyce Beers Community Center, by the Aladdin restaurant near Ralph's supermarket on University.

Sat. Mar. 3, 9PM-2AM; BearNight Dance at Numbers. $5 before 10PM. First Sat. of each month. Lots of leathermen attend this event, and it comes highly recommended… Here are some reviews.

Sun. Mar. 4, 2PM, CIGARS & BOOTS on the upper level at the Hole. First Sun. of each month. We are changing the location as a test, so be sure to wear whatever gear makes you feel extra-sexy!  If you like a low-pressure, comfortable event with men that you can relate to, this one is for you. 

Wed. Mar. 7, 7-9PM: MEN'S MONTHLY DISCUSSIONS.  Moderated by California LeatherSir 2012 Sam. This has turned out to be ideal for building friendships by getting to know men outside of the bar/cruising scene. First and third Wednesday of each month. Here is a picture from the December 21 event. It's a great excuse for the generations to meet, build friendships and share mentoring. 

Wed. Mar. 7, 9PM: PUPPY NIGHT at the Eagle, hosted by Beep and San Diego Puppy Patrol (SDPP). First Wed. of each month.

Thu. Mar. 8 at 9pm till 1am; Red Hankie Social Night at the Eagle.  Second Thu. of each month

Fri. Mar. 9, 9PM-1AM: DRESS IT UP/STRIP IT DOWN at the Eagle; 2nd Fri. of each month. Hosted by Eli. It's the nicest, friendliest crowd you'll see at a leather bar. Here are a few reviews, if you haven't been to one yet. Dress to impress if you've got the gear, or show us some skin - I promise you'll be glad that you did. Here are some pictures from Oct., February, March, April, June and September. Notice how HAPPY everybody is. You deserve to be that happy too.

Fri. Mar. 9, 10:00PM: STUD Night at the Eagle.  Come out and play with the BAD BoyZ of Porn!  Tonight's special guest is Michael Brandon.

Sat. Mar. 10, 9PM onward: UNIFORM NIGHT at the Eagle. Wear Military Gear or Civil Uniform Gear. Second Sat. of each month.

Sat. Mar. 10: BELT Party at Numbers. I will be celebrating 35 years in the Leather/Kink/Fetish Tribe that evening, so come help me celebrate a life well spent!

Fri. Mar. 16, 8:30PM-1AM: FRIDAY NIGHT BEAT AND GREET, downtown, hosted by Bryan Teague - American Leatherboy 2010, tiger - Ms San Diego Leather 2010, caryl - San Diego's premier Sea Monkey Trainer, and Mike Underwood - San Diego's very own Curmudgeonly teddy bear. Third Fri. of each month. This is a GREAT educational event if you want some hands-on training in a safe environment.

Mr. LA Leather 2012 Contest Weekend Highlights:

Thursday, March 22: 

Southland Honors - Awards Party

Friday, March 23:

BBQ Bondage Throw Down - Pansexual bondage play party at Sanctuary LAX

Mr. LA Leather Cigar Social - The LA Eagle

Uniform & Leather Party - Formal uniform and leather reception with the Regiment, California B&B Corps & BLUF

Saturday, March 24

Tow to Tow - Mr. LA Leather Contest and Meat Rack - Off the Hook

Anvil Club - Men only Extreme Dress Code Party at Threshold

Sunday, March 25

Mr LA Leather Victory Brunch - Celebrate with the new Mr LAL at Oil Can Harry’s

Street Fair - Pansexual, multi-fetish street fair at Threshold

March 29-Apr. 1: International Ms. Leather 2012 contest in San Francisco.

Fri. Mar. 30, 8:30PM-1AM: MEN-ONLY Fri. NIGHT BEAT AND GREET, downtown, hosted by Bryan Teague - American Leatherboy and Mike Underwood - San Diego's very own Curmudgeonly teddy bear. The Men-Only version is on the FIFTH Fri. of each month, such as June 29, August 31 and Nov. 30th of 2012. There will be hands-on training for folks who want to learn from experts in a very safe environment. I will be there, teaching flogging as usual.

Sat. Apr. 21, 9PM-3AM: ANVIL CLUB up in the San Fernando Valley. I give it a rave review here. Upcoming dates include June 23, August 24 (Rubber), Oct. 20 (Uniforms) and Dec. 15.

May 25-28: International Mr. Leather 2012 Contest Weekend in Chicago.

Sunday, July 29: Up Your Alley Street Fair in San Francisco.

Sunday, September 23: Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco.

November 8-11: Palm Springs Leather Pride