09.11 by boiMAGazine & boiMAG.com

www.stockroom.com

www.circuitclub.com

ISSUE 09.11

INTERNATIONAL MR. LEATHER 2011 PROGRAM GUIDE

Executive Producer: Chuck Renslow IML Coordinator: R J Chaffin

3700 N. Halsted St. #2S Chicago, IL 60613

773.975.0264

boieditorial@aol.com • boiads@aol.com Publisher Editor

Leather Market Coordinator: Bob Graves

Layout & Design

Stage Event Designer and Coordinators: Paul Sullenger & Gary Chichester

Advertising Bill Gubrud Freddie Bain Russena Simmons

Den Daddy: Joey McDonald Sponsorships & Marketing: Jon Krongaard Judge Coordinator: Billy Lane Ticket Sales: Bob Scarano Official Photographers: Ron Volanti & Paul Kubek

Mike Macharello Rick Karlin

Titanium Graphics bill@boimagzine.com freddie@boimagazine.com Russena@boimagzine.com

Photographers Oliver Aguilar Steve Starr

ssstarrlight@gmail.com

Editorial Contributors Harry Taint Ace Magyar

Gregg Shapiro RJ Chaffin - IML Content

VIEW BOI ONLINE AT www.boimagazine.com

Event Security: David St. Martin Volunteer Staff Coordinator: Mike Hollar Headquarter Office: David Ciganek Web Designer: Dan Nash Registration Coordinator: Tony Brown Market Day Pass: John Trzaska Transportation Coordinator: John Weiler Interpreters: Kirk Hamlin & Andreus Campos Bootblack Coordinator: David Hawks boi

IML Help Desk: Jason Hendrix

WELCOME LETTER: CHUCK RENSLOW SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTEST EMCEES JUDGES tally masters / past iml winners LEATHER MARKET MAP mr: IML TYLER Mccormik farwell Bootblack: tim starkey farwell Interview: chuck renslow’s bio dining out in chicago official djs entertainment: american english in the know, on the go! leather bars in chicago bars and clubs directory

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Welcome to Chicago and the 33rd annual International Mr. Leather weekend. This year’s theme is HISTORY and who better to address that topic than IML founder Chuck Renslow? Time, as they say, flies. It seems like yesterday that my partner Dom Orejudos and I produced the first International Mr. Leather Contest. We rented a hotel, telling them it was a body building convention. We sent invitations to all the leather bars and clubs we could find. We held it in early May (later changing it to Memorial Day Weekend to make sure it never conflicted with Mother’s Day.) It was a small event, only seven contestants. But everything you see and experience this weekend and indeed the last 32 years of IML, would seem to have begun at the little contest at the Radisson Hotel in 1979. I say it “would seem to have begun” in 1979 because the real roots of International Mr. Leather come from the Mr. Gold Coast contest held a year earlier. The Gold Coast was our leather bar. We opened it in 1958 as one of the first fetish clubs in the nation. It was a popular club and one of the few places leathermen could meet. Dom and I had also been heavily involved in body building. We owned a free weight gym and had been publishing “physique style” photos and magazines for years. With the bodybuilding competitions as a model, we put together our own little competition to find a new title holder, “Mr. Gold Coast”. Our little physique contest was a success, too much so. The bar was so crowded people were standing in the doorways. Dom and I immediately understood the need to find a bigger venue for the next year’s contest. International Mr. Leather emerged by chance. We went looking for a hotel ballroom. Dom suggested that we try to pull contestants from some of the other leather clubs and bars which were by then established across the country. But how would we induce them to come to Chicago? I suggested we hold a Mr. USA Leatherman contest. Dom laughed, “Why stop there, how about we make it a World Leatherman?” I replied with “International” and the die was cast and we sent out Dom’s poster art for advertising. This weekend you’re participating in that history as we hold our 33rd annual competition. I’m constantly amazed that we’ve survived. I’m even more surprised by our growth. All of this has happened because of you and the hundreds of thousands of leather men and women who have embraced both International Mr. Leather and the fetish community at large. This has been the ride of my life, and I thank each of you for your continued support. In leather and unity, Chuck Renslow, Founder and President 12 boi

THURSDAY, MAY 26 7:00pm-10:30pm The Roast of Tyler McCormick Leather Archives & Museum 6418 N. Greenview Ticket required. Visit www. leatherarchives.com for more information.

FRIDAY, MAY 27 11:00am-Noon Leather Recovery Meeting Comiskey Room (West Tower) A 12-Step recovery meeting that welcomes all programs and people seeking support in a sober environment during all the IML festivities. Noon-7:00pm Leather Market Riverside Center 2:00-4:00pm Chuck Renslow Book Signing Leather Market Stage Book available at Leather Archives & Museum booth 7:30pm-8:30pm Leather Recovery Meeting Comiskey Room (West Tower) 7:00pm-9:00pm Chicago Rubbermen Meet & Greet Acapulco Room (West Tower)

Join the Chicago Rubbermen

as they host the annual gathering of hot and kinky rubberists from around the world. 16 boi

8:30pm-11:30pm Exhibit opening of “A Room of Her Own” Leather Archives & Museum 6418 N. Greenview Be the first to see the priemer Women’s Leather History Exhibit. 8:00pm-11:00pm IML Opening Ceremonies Grand Ballroom Event includes the introductions of contestants and judges. Opens at 8pm. Event at 9pm. Sponsored by ID Lube. 10:00pm-2:00am Gear Blast IML 2011 Regency Ballroom B (West Tower) Hot guys in sports, protective, rubber, leather, lycra and other pervy types of gear will keep this party going. Get in gear and party with other like-minded guys who enjoy and appreciate gear. 10:00pm-Midnight The Uniform Event at IML Regency Ballroom C (West Tower) A meet and greet for lovers of all types of uniforms: police, military, leather, sports, and more! Come in uniform or come to cruise. Hosted by America’s leading uniform clubs. MAUL - Mid Atlantic Uniform League www. uniformleague.org, California B&B Corps - www.bbcorps.org. The Regiment of the Black and Tans - www.blackandtans.org 10:00pm-2:00am San Francisco Party Crystal Ballroom San Francisco invades IML! Folsom Street Fair & Magnitude invite you to play with hundreds of hot, filthy

leathermen, sweating to the sounds of DJ DAMnation. 11:00pm-Midnight Leather Recovery Meeting Comiskey Room (West Tower)

SATURDAY, MAY 28

11:00am-1:00pm Justin Spring “Leather Historian” Water Tower Room (West Tower) Guest Speaker Justin Spring. 11:00am-Noon Leather Recovery Meeting Comiskey Room (West Tower) 11:00am-7:00pm 11-7:00pm Leather Market Riverside Center 1:00pm-3:00pm Master/Slave Relationships Toronto Room (West Tower) Exploring & deepening master/slave - dom/sub relationships presented by Liza & her slave, Jody (International Master & slave 2011). 2:00-4:00pm Chuck Renslow Book Signing Leather Market Stage Book available at Leather Archives & Museum booth 3:00-5:00pm

People of Color Leather Caucus

Wrigley Room (West Tower) Facilitated by Mufasa, founder of Onyx & Mr. World 2006

3:00pm-5:00pm Chicago Hellfire Club Social Regency Ballroom C (West Tower) Meet and greet the members of Chicago Hellfire Club, a BDSM Club, in its 40th year. 3:00pm-5:00pm Windy City Boys Troop Cocktail Hour Acapulco Room (West Tower) Windy City Boys Troop host their annual boy cocktail party. 8:00pm-11:00pm IML Pecs and Personality Contest Grand Ballroom IML contestants are judged on their appearance and stage presence. Doors at 8:00pm, contest at 9:00pm. 8:00pm-10:00pm BLUF Social Gathering Crystal Ballroom C BLUF is one of the strictest dress-code clubs in the world. Attendees should respectfully adhere to their dress-code: leather breeches and/or uniform and boots. The BLUF Social is presented by, Nikitas Chondroyannos (BLUF 026) in cooperation with www. BLUFCHICAGO.com 8:00pm-Midnight International Bootblack Reception Toronto Room (West Tower) Join the contestants as they celebrate the 18th anniversary of the International Bootblack competition. Mingle with

bootblacks from across the nation & help raise travel funds for this year’s winner hosted by IML. 10:00pm-Midnight Woof Camp 2011 Regency Ballroom A Annual party for pups, dogs, handlers & friends produced by SF K9 Unit & sponsored by Squarepegtoys. Free & open to the public with pup activities, music, fun and fellowship. More info at WoofCamp.com 10:00pm-1:00am Leather Archives & Museum Silent Auction Crystal Foyer (West Tower) 10:00pm-2:00am Onyx Party Crystal Ballroom A/B The weekend isn’t complete without the Onyx Old School Dance. Hot Leathermen! 11:00-Midnight Leather Recovery Meeting Comiskey Room (West Tower)

SUNDAY, MAY 29

11:00am-Noon Leather Recovery Meeting Comiskey Room (West Tower) 11:00am-5:00pm Leather Market Riverside Center Noon-1:00pm MCC Church Service Toronto Room (West Tower)

2:00-4:00pm Chuck Renslow Book Signing Leather Market Stage Book available at Leather Archives & Museum booth 5:00pm-9:00pm International Mr. Leather Contest Harris Theater 205 East Randolph, Chicago Doors open at 5:00 pm. Contest begins at 6:00pm. Sponsored by Miller Lite, featuring American English. 9:00pm-4:00am IML Victory Party House of Blues (329 N. Dearborn St) DJ Gary Izira and DJ Neill MacLeod www.circuitmom. com 11:00pm-Midnight Leather Recovery Meeting Comiskey Room (West Tower)

MONDAY, MAY 30 11:00am-4:00pm Leather Market Riverside Center

4:00pm-5:00pm Leather Recovery Meeting Comiskey Room (West Tower) 8:00pm-4:00am Black and Blue Ball Excalibur Nightclub (632 N. Dearborn St) DJ Ron Geronimo and DJ Ted Eiel, www.djtedeiel.com boi 17

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Queen Cougar

is a leather activist and a respected top female emcee at contests all across country. Among the events at which she has performed are: IML, IMsL, Drummer, International Leather Sir/boy, International Community Bootblack, South Plains Leatherfest, Mr. Ebony Leather, Ms. World Leather among many others. Known as a dynamic workshop presenter at such events as: Black Rose, Powersurge, DESIRE, Wicked Womyn, Kinkfest, Pacific Friction and Folsom Street Fair, she was the co-producer of the Leather SM Clean & Sober Conference in 1993 and was a founder of the Ms. World Leather event. Cougar has occasionally performed as a jazz vocalist and has sung the national anthem at various leather events. In 1993 she was Ms. Headquarters Leather and Ms. San Francisco Leather and was first runnerup at IMsL. She was the “Pantheon of Leather” readers’ choice Woman of the Year for 2000 and was the SF Leather Pride female grand marshal in 2010. She has been featured in the BDSM/ Leather Scene Videos “Bloodsisters”, “Safe, Sane & Consensual” and “Kink Crusaders” and is an associate of C.O.M.M.A.N.D., ONYX, The Philadelphians, NJ Andromeda, T.U.L.S.A. and a member of Mama’s Family and the Exiles of SF. Long acknowledged as leather royalty, she is also a member of the SF Imperial Family. She was the daughter and confidante to Mr. Marcus Hernandez and remains a champion of keeping his accomplishments alive in our memories. As a fundraiser, her efforts have helped raise thousands of dollars for charities. Respected and loved by men and women alike, she walks comfortably throughout the maze of our BDSM lifestyle and its intricacies. 20 boi

David Kloss,

representing the City of San Francisco, was the first man ever chosen to hold the title of International Mr. Leather in 1979. He served as treasurer on the Boards of Directors of three HIV/AIDS assistance organizations: The Assistance Fund in Houston, HIV Wellness Center in Austin and Folsom Events in San Francisco. The latter has gained worldwide recognition for producing the “Up Your Alley” and “Folsom Street” fairs. During David’s 12-year tenure on these organizations, he was proud to have been a key participant in helping raise well over $1,500,000 for those in need. David’s community service has earned him a number of awards including the National Leather Emerald Award from the Washington State Leather Organization and the Philip M. Turner “Star” Achievement Award for outstanding achievement within the San Francisco Leather Community. David has also been presented with Certificates of Honor from the Senate of the State of California, the Mayor of San Francisco and the city’s Board of Supervisors. At the end of 2002, David relocated to Toronto, Canada to share his life with his partner, Remi Collette, a native of Canada. David continues to be active in leather events, judging many leather contests, as well as acting as emcee and/or auctioneer. David and Remi, married in 2003, one of the first couples to take advantage of Ontario’s same sex marriage law, and have been outspoken concerning gay rights and the issue of gay marriage in the United States. In 2005 he and Remi created their own design and renovation firm, LoganSienna Design, in Toronto.

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Nikitas Chondroyannos was born

in 1982 and is equal parts Greek and Canadian. Nikitas travels continually and has lived in places shuch as Illinois, Washington, England, Greece and Italy but happily finds himself returning to his home in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada time and time again. He marks the beginning of his leather journey with the discovery of works by Tom of Finland. Nikitas’ first immersion into the leather lifestyle was in the avenues and darkest spaces of various European centers. As both a European and North American citizen, Nikitas prides himself in his ability to bridge the distances between communities across the Atlantic. Nikitas believes in respecting traditions and values the preservation of our shared culture and history. In 2006, Nikitas challenged the British Columbia Human Rights tribunal for failing to fully recognize the rights of HIV positive individuals in the province; and won the dispute which resulted in a significant contribution being made to a Vancouver-based Gay Men’s Health Policy Institute.

Douglas “Tigger” Connors was just a young

gayling in 1989 when he stumbled upon two leathermen in full gear at a local bar and thought to himself, “Now, that’s a man!” That led to a lengthy descent into debauchery, as well as a rewarding, and at times challenging, lifetime voyage of self-discovery. Eventually, Douglas found his way to IML as an attendee in 2001, then again as (a surprised-to-benamed) Mr Leather Ottawa-Outaouais for the Silver IML (2003) where he delivered a positive message of self-acceptance on the way to an 8th place finish. A steadfast believer in “The Power of Kind”, his easy smile, treatment of others, and infectious energy earned him the nickname Tigger. He went on to earn the Pantheon of Leather - Canadian Region Award for his title year. As a columnist, discussion leader, debater, event producer, artist, and communications and public relations specialist, Douglas’ contributions to the community over time have been numerous and varied. And they are not about to end anytime soon. Douglas is extremely honoured and flattered to have had his writing featured in International Mr Leather: 25 Years of Champions, and to be able to serve as judge this year.

Massimo Fusillo was born in Naples and

after his PhD moved to Rome, where he has lived for 20 years with his life partner, Roberto. In 1999, together with a small group of friends, he founded the Leather Club Roma, 22 boi

the first fetish club in Central and Southern Italy. In 2001 the Leather Club Roma became a member of the ECMC. In 2003 Massimo became the president of the club and works on the committee organizing the annual ECMC Meeting, Catacombs, the Mr. Leatherman Italy contest, with the Leather Friends Italy of Veneto, and the Mr. Rubber Italy contest. Massimo is strongly involved in the political activities of the Italian LGBT community. 2011 will present a fetish weekend and a fetish workshop (together with straight bdsm groups) during the first EuroPride to be held in Rome. He is deeply into S&M, leather and rubber fetishism, and master/slave relationships. He is Professor of Comparative Literature at the University of L’Aquila: in his research he worked especially on myths, novels, films, and recently on the theme of objects and fetishes, strictly related to his leather identity. He was a judge for Mr. Leather Europe 2008 (Rome) and 2009 (Frankfurt), and the Mr. International Rubber 2009 in Chicago.

Bill Hoeppner was introduced to the

leather community in 1993 in New York City. The philanthropic nature of the leather community in response to the AIDS epidemic was what immediately drew him in and is one of the many things that still inspires him today. He has served as president of the Board for Bound South, as vice president of the Board for Lambda Men’s Brotherhood and is a founding member of the South Florida Boys of Leather. Bill has held the titles of: Mr. Ramrod 2006, Ramrod Bar, International Mr. Leather 2007, 2nd runner-up, Florida Leatherboy 2008 and International Leatherboy 2008. Bill is the co-founder of Positively Sober, a Ft. Lauderdale support group for sober people living with HIV/AIDS and in 2007 helped to create Clean Sober Leather (CSL), an online support group for sober leather men and women. He is proud to have been able to support numerous local and national organizations through fundraising events. Bill has served as contest director for the SouthEast Leather Sir/Boy Community Bootblack Contest and as producer/director of the Mr. Ramrod Leather Contest for the past four years. He is honored to have received The Pantheon of Leather Man of the Year 2009 Award at IML 31 and been recognized twice at the local SAL Awards as Leather Person of the Year.

Sarah Humble has a long leather history beginning in 1987 when she showed up at the Mid Atlantic Leather Contest - and they let her in. In 1994 she became the first American Leatherwoman. Winner of 3 Pantheon Awards, including Woman of the Year in 1996, she was the first dyke to judge International Mr. Drummer in 1995 and has been head judge for International Ms Leather for the past 5 years.

As co-founder of FIST (Females Investigating Sexual Terrain) in Baltimore, she opened Play House Studios with Glenda Rider. Sarah is also a proud associate of COMMAND, MC. Sarah returned to her home state of Colorado and retired in 2005. In 2010 she was ready for a new project and became the founder and project manager of the Women’s Leather History Project at the LA&M. She also serves as a board member for the LA&M. Sarah lives in Arvada, Colorado with her partner of 11 years, Leigha Fleming, and their dogs.

Adam Latham, a native Southern

Californian, first discovered the joys of being a kinky bastard by accident at the tender age of six – when his older sister got pissed off at him and chained him to a door. Nearly 13 years later had the honor of being named Mr. San Diego Leather 2004, ably representing his community for a full and successful year, culminating in becoming one of the finalists at IML 27. He was named as San Diego’s Leather Man of the Year in 2005 and 2007, as well as Kinkster of the Year 2007. He produces, judges and emcees at many events, and enjoys presenting leather education at events throughout California, promoting kink, connection, and brotherhood. Adam now serves the leather community as president of San Diego Leather Pride Inc. He has produced the Mr. and Ms. San Diego Leather Contests for the last six years, as well as San Diego Leather Pride. He is proud to be an Associate Member of the Chicago Hellfire Club, works actively with the Rodeo, Bear, and Imperial Court communities, and has been honored with a number of titles. Adam and his husband Timothy are legally married in the State of California, and will be celebrating their 7th anniversary at this IML.

Trooper Long is Great Lakes Boot Black 2009, and

was 1st runner-up at both International Mr. Boot Black ‘09 & International Community Boot Black ‘10. Enjoying BDSM life for more than a decade, he is President of ICON Detroit Leather Club, and member of Detroit Bondage Club and Chicago Hellfire Club (CHC). He has served the community as judge for state and regional contests, and, as bootblack, the last 5 years at runs for ICON, Nashville Conductors, Grand Rapids Rivermen, and NIMBUS. Trooper proudly helps with fundraising for charities around the midwest & south, and is also a presenter of workshops on fetish, leather care & blacking for Great Lakes Leather Alliance, CHC and others. For his latest project, he organized an LGBT Pride Fun Run, where he donned a favorite leather armband and ran 10 miles through the city of Detroit to

raise funds for Affirmations LGBT Center, building bridges between kinky folk and non-kinky LGBTs in the process. Trooper is Sir to his boys, Black of Toronto and pup Shyam of San Francisco. He’s in a loving relationship with Andrew, who’s both kinky and cute!

Tyler McCormick began his journey

into leather and fetish, and specifically his passion for rope bondage, in childhood watching television and getting excited seeing the good guy get tied up. Tyler always wanted to be the guy tying the knots. He has been an out and proud leatherman in the New Mexico community for more than twelve years and is still awed by his selection as International Mr. Leather 2010. Tyler teaches classes and workshops, works as a case manager for New Mexico AIDS Services; serves on the board of the New Mexico Leather Wolves. He often voices a simple, but powerful message wherever he goes, “Strive to be a light for others. Be open and honest and do not to let fear limit you. Give of yourself and help those around you find their own power and road.” Many people have assisted, guided and played an important role in Tyler’s life and he never hesitates to acknowledge those gifts while striving to honor them by contributing to others as they make their journey through the leather world.

Vern Stewart is a columnist, photographer,

advisor, mentor and friend to the leather community for more than 50 years. He is a past board member of SMMILE. (the original Folsom Street Fair organization), past board member of SF CUAV (Community United Against Violence), past producer of American Brotherhood Weekend (ABLE Productions), an honorary member of numerous bike clubs across the United States and is the recipient of numerous community service awards. A Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, producer and judge of local, regional, and International Leather contests, his number one goal is to make sure that future generations of leather men, women, boys and girls are aware of the rich leather history of those who have blazed the trail for all to follow. Affectionately known as the Wicked Witch of the East, Vern believes in telling it like it is, and training and educating those who will carry on the leather traditions, history and lifestyle far into the future. Vern’s motto: “We don’t know where we are going, if we lack the knowledge and history from where we’ve come.” boi 23

George Brown

is in his third year as tally master. After living the last 6 years in Chicago, George and his dog Springer have returned to Grand Rapids, Michigan to return to school and be closer to his family. While in Chicago, George was Cell Block Leatherman 2005 and competed for IML that same year. Being involved in the Leather community and supporting the local clubs in Michigan is important to George. Other activities include dancing with the Grand River Renegades, a country and western linedancing club in Grand Rapids, spending time with friends and family, and traveling. George also volunteers for the local GLBT organizations when ever possible. Working with the IML family is George’s greatest pleasure and he looks forward to another great year of fun and getting to meet all the incredible leather people from all over the world.

1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994

David Kloss, San Francisco, CA Patrick Brooks, Sydney, Australia Marty Kiker, San Francisco, CA Luke Daniels, San Francisco, CA Coulter “Colt” Thomas, Houston, TX Ron Moore, Denver, CO Patrick Toner, San Francisco, CA Scott Tucker, Philadelphia, PA Thomas Karasch, Hamburg, Germany Michael Pereyra, San Diego, CA Guy Baldwin, Los Angeles, CA Mark Ryan, Boston, MA D Cannon, Hollywood, CA Lenny Broberg, San Francisco, CA Henri ten Have, Amsterdam, Netherlands Jeff Tucker, San Jose, CA

Jay Harcourt

served as Mr. Hayes Valley Leather 2005, and is proud to be a part of the IML class of 2005. He has produced both the Mr. San Francisco Leather Contest and the Mr. Hayes Valley Leather Contest, was a member of the Local Organizing Committee for the Leather Leadership Conference 12 in San Francisco and has served the past two years as Tally Master for MidAtlantic Leather. He is a founding Community Advisory Board member for Magnet, the renowned gay men’s community health center in the Castro. After 15 years of stirring things up and supporting the community in San Francisco, Jay relocated to Austin, TX two years ago and is currently looking for the opportunity that will bring him back to the Bay Area. He is honored by the invitation from IML to be a part of this year’s competition.

1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Larry Everett, Collinsville, OK Joe Gallagher, New York, NY Kevin Cwayna, Minneapolis, MN Tony Mills, Washington, DC Bruce Chopnik, Denver, CO Mike Taylor, Columbus/Cincinnati, OH Stefan Miller, Munich, Germany Stephen Weber, Dallas, TX John Pendal, London, UK Jason Hendrix, Washington, DC Michael Egdes, Ft. Lauderdale, FL Bo Ladashevska, Montreal, Canada Mikel Gerle, Los Angeles, CA Gary Iriza, Palm Springs, CA Jeffery Payne, Dallas, TX Tyler McCormick, Albuquerque, NM

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The Leather Market is without a doubt the most popular feature of the weekend, serving as the social and commercial center of IML. A great introduction for first-time IML attendees and curiosity seekers, it never fails to entertain grizzled veterans. More than 100 leather-related business eagerly tempt attendees with the latest products, presented in a range of impressive displays. You name it and you can probably find it at the Leather Market: clothing, footwear and accessories, dungeon equipment, gadgets and toys, niche magazines, DVDs, CDs, and, of course, plenty of condoms and lube. Leather Market vendors cover most every fetish element of the scene and boldly wear or demonstrate the products that they are selling.

Attendees often don leather and fetish gear as they browse and shop. It is not uncommon to pass by guys demonstrating how restraint tables work or testing out certain paddles and whips on eager participants. Competitors for the International Mr. Bootblack competition have chairs set up in the Leather Market and provide a firm and thorough boot polishing to all who require such services. Hosted at the Hyatt Regency Chicago (Lower Level) located at 151 East Wacker Drive, the Leather Market runs Memorial Day weekend from Friday May 27 through Monday May 30, 2011. It is open to the public and requires a day pass to enter. There is a $5 suggested donation with all proceeds going to the Leather Archives and Museum. Friday, May 27 - Market open 12pm to 7pm Saturday, May 28 - Market open 11am to 7pm Sunday, May 29 - Market open 11am to 5pm Monday, May 30 - Market open 11am to 4pm

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Adonis Leathercrafters

Indian Rocks Beach, FL Atlanta, GA Alt. Kilt Madison, WI Andre Whips/ Ms-V Repentigny, Quebec Aneros Houston, TX B.A.R.E. Restaints Corp. Toronto, Ontario Balls and Chains Hollywood, CA BDG Sales, LLC Tamaqua, PA Be Well Be Dazzled Chicago, IL Bear Ink Augusta, GA BearGearusa.com/BearTshirts.com Indianapolis. IN Bijou Chicago, IL Bonding Co Miami, FL Bootleg Life Berwyn, IL Boy Butter New York, NY Centaur Entertainment Fort Lauderdale, FL Cheaplubes.com Portage, IN Chicago Department of Health Chicago, IL Chicago Dragons Rugby Football Club Chicago, IL Chicago Hellfire Club Chicago, IL Chicago Male Medical Clinic Chicago, IL CJ’s Leather Denver, CO Daddy’s Leather/ Bar K Bar/Woof Wax Houston , TX Dr. Clockwork’s Electrical Oddities Lebanon, NJ Dungeon Beds San Francisco, CA E7 Gear Yonkers, NY Eagle Leathers Chicago, IL Exotic-Erotics Shelbyville, KY Fetish Zone Tryon, NC Folsom Street East New York, NY Folsom Street Events San Francisco, CA Fort Troff Atlanta, GA Gay Mart Chicago, IL Gear Essentials Minneapolis, MN Got Kilt White Lake, MI GreyCat Workshop Madison, WI Hands for Hire Chair Massage Niles, IL Henna Designs & Tattoos Brampton, Ontario Howard Brown Health Center Chicago, IL Jewelry by Ponce Happy Valley, OR Killerbob Graphics San Francisco, CA Kinky Kollege/The SINS Center Niles, IL Lagarto Custom Leather Lakewood, CO Le Chateau Exotique & LCE Ltd New Hope, PA Leather Archives & Museum Chicago, IL Leather Creations Vernon, CT Leather Masters Dallas, TX Leather Werks Ft. Lauderdale, FL Locked in Steel Hudson, NH Loyal Body Inc Chicago, IL Adopt A Sex Pig/Cruising For Sex

815-914 510 904 1011 618-620 825 605 715-717-814-816-818 817 723-725 802-804 607-609-611 112-114 822 924 916 412-410-408-406 821 1010 633 125 601-603-700-702 812-810-808 910 101-103-200-202 706-708-710-712 104 803 801 208 306-308 613-thru-724 820 210 806 902 Bootblack Area 222 809 1006 212 730 805-807 507-509-511-513 1004-1005 414-416-418 225-227-324-326 419-thru-612 411-413 922

www.adonisleathercrafters.com www.adoptsexpig.com www.altkilt.com www.ms-v.ca www.malegspot.com www.sensualeroticproducts.com www.bdgslaes.com www.bewellbedazzled.com www.beargearusa.com www.bijouworld.com www.leatherbonding.com www.boybutter.com www.centaurmusic.com www.cheaplubes.com www.chicagodragons.org www.hellfire13.org www.chicagomalemedicalclinic.com www.cjsleather.com www.daddysleathershop.com www.drclockwork.com www.dungeonbeds.com www.E7Gear.com www.exotic-erotics.com www.fetishzone.net www.folsomstreeteast.org www.folsomstreetevents.org www.forttroff.com www.gearessentials.com www.got-kilt.com www.hardpoints.greycatworkshop.com

www.howardbrown.org www.jewelrybyponceportland.com www.killerbob.com www.kinkykollege.com www.buylagarto.com www.fetishwear.com www.leatherarchives.com www.leathercreations.com www.leathermasters.com www.leatherwerks.com www.lockedinsteel.com www.loyalbodyinc.com

M. Forero MacDaddy Designs LLC Manhunt Marvelous Mayhem Metals Jewlery Mid America Fists In Action Milwaukee Pridefest

Napervillle, IL Butler, PA Cambridge, MA Snellville, GA Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Milwaukee, WI MIR Mr. International Rubber Hinsdale, IL Mr. Friendly Kalamazoo, MI Mr. Hyde’s Custom Leather New Orleans, LA Mr-S-Leather San Francisco, CA MT Leather Products Cincinnati, OH Nasty Pig New York, NY Next Door Magazine New York, NY NKPS Media LLC/Oinkmobile.com San Bernardino, CA NorthBound Leather Toronto, Ontario NYJox North Bergen, NJ Oooh Papi Underwear Oak Park, IL O Whips Hickory, NC Obscure Belts Kenosha, WI Off Ramp Leathers San Francisco, CA Passional Boutique Philadelphia, PA Pjur Group/Lycom Usa Miami Beach, FL Priape Inc Montreal, Quebec Rage Rubber St. Cloud, FL Rainbow Rope/Kinky Medical Oceanside, NY Rebel X Clothing Company Long Beach, CA Recon.com Chicago, IL Rodco-Lockergear Pittsburgh, PA Rubio Leather New York, NY Semmerling & Schaefer Mask Chicago, IL Shel-don Chicago Chicago, IL SLS Specialty Houston , TX Square Peg Toys Idyllwild, CA Stark Mobile Media Vancouver, BC Steamworks San Francisco, CA Steel Mill Media St. Cloud, FL Steve Leather New York, NY Stockroom Los Angeles, CA Stompers Boots San Francisco, CA The Acme Toy Company.com Evanston, IL The Kink Shop Shreveport, LA The Leather Journal Los Angeles, CA The Leather Man, Inc New York, NY Titan Media San Francisco, CA TLAGay.com Philadelphia, PA TLC Tugger Foreskin Restoration Northbrook, IL TLS Rubber Gear/Midnight Blues Houston , TX Tom’s Weho, CA Toolworks Chicago Willowbrook, IL Torvea Achella Tucker, GA Tribal Son Fort Lauderdale, FL Twisted DNA West Hollywood, CA World Gay Rodeo Finals Denver, CO

420 www.sophiaforero.com 913-915 www.macdaddydesigns.biz 322-320 www.manhunt.net 116-118-120 www.marvelousmayhem.com 917-919 732 www.mafiaff.org 108-110 1008 www.mirubber.com 123 www.mrfriendly.info 900 www.etsy.com/shop/mrhydesleather.com 201-203-205-300-302-304 www.mr-s-leather.com 622-624 www.mtleather.com 301-303-305-307-309 www.nastypig.com 506 www.nextdoormagazine.com 127-224 www.oinkmobile.com 401-403-405-407-409 www.northbound.com 400 www.nyjox.com 911 www.papiunderwearshop.com 508 www.owhips.com 422 www.obscurebelts.com 1007 www.offrampleathers.com 719-721 www.passionalboutique.wordpress.com 327-428-426 www.pjurman.com 215-thru-318 www.priape.com 211-213 www.ragerubber.com 115-117 www.rainbowrope.com 402 www.rebelx.net 727-thru-832 www.recon.com 906-908 www.lockergear.com 421-423-425-427-512 www.rubioleather.com 311 www.maskartists.com 109-111 www.sheldon.com 726-728 www.slsspecialty.com 207-209 www.squarepegtoys.com 918-920 www.GuySpy.com 912 www.steamworksonline.com 312-310 www.steelmillmedia.com 100-102 800-701-thru-711 www.male.stockroom.com 824 www.stompersboots.com 627-629-631 www.theacmetoycompany.com 221-223 www.thekinkshop.com 713 www.theleatherjournal.com 315-317-319-321-323 www.theleatherman.com 823 www.titanmen.com 819 www.tlagay.com 1009 www.TLCTTugger.com 214-216-218-220 www.tlsrubbergear.com 811-813 119-121 www.floggers.com 1000-1001-1002-1003 www.torvea.com 404 www.tribalson.com 105-107 106 www.IGRA.com boi 29

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www.spybarchicago.com

Woof! What a ride. My year began by talking about facing our fears and how the world would be a better place if we all had the courage to stand up to our fear of success and follow our passions. I thank the numerous people who shared their stories with me. It was a true honor to hear how so many people are following their passions and overcoming fear in order to be successful. Words cannot express my gratitude for all of you who have welcomed me into your communities with open arms and open hearts. I am humbled to have been honored as a judge, a speaker, or a special guest in every place I have visited. Our communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strengths and challenges are not that different. It has been a privilege to get to know so many members of our tribe. I wish this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IML contestants good luck. Remember to have fun and be yourself. To anyone considering competing in the future I urge you to give it a shot. International Mr. Leather is a wonderful organization that will help you to shine and grow into the best leather man that you can be. Thank you to everyone that gave me time, money, food, beer, plane tickets, hotel rooms, moral support, rides to the airport or YELLOW PUPPIES. Thank you to Daddy Steve and everyone else at home for being a continuous voice of support and strength. I feel like the luckiest man in the world to have had my boy and husband, Aaron, with me as we have made this journey together. From his proposal the day after I won to our wedding and the next fifty years I look forward to spending the rest of my life with him.

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Again, thank you for one hell of a year, Tyler McCormick International Mr. Leather 32

Poet Mary Oliver has asked the question, “What are you going to do with this one wild and precious life?” The past few years I have attempted to embody these words. As I close out my year, I look back to when this journey started. When I first discovered my desire and interest in leather I struggled with getting involved, because of a deep level of introversion. As my desire to be part of a community grew, my adoration for boots and the people who wear them presented a way to break away from some of my shyness. When I discovered boot-blacking, I knew I had found a home. Boot-blacking became a means for me to get more involved with the leather community. It allowed me to interact with other leather men and women, raise money for charities and to have fun. I never would have thought as I started the journey of exploring leather that I would be where I am today. Competing and winning Mr. Boston Leather 2009 and then International Mr. Bootblack 2010 has been an emotionally healing experience for the introvert who always felt like the last kid picked on the playground. The experiences of this past year have filled my heart with incredible memories as well as future opportunities. We are fortunate to have each other. Our communities are filled with extraordinary and inspirational people. My challenge to people who want to be a part of the community is for you to ask visible leaders what you can do to help out, and how you can become more involved. For those who are in leadership roles, I challenge you to look at your community for people who are standing on the sidelines always attending events but seem hesitant to interact. Boots and leather are nothing without the heart and the spirits of the people who fill them. We each need to challenge ourselves and others to reach our full potential. We all need to live, celebrate, empower and love. Special thanks to everyone who supported and encouraged me on this journey. Thank you everyone for the most amazing year of my life (so far).

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I love you all, Tim

By Gregg Shapiro Chuck Renslow is a living legend in the Chicago LGBT community. Now in his 82nd year, Renslow has lived a full life, including being a bar owner, photographer, political activist, newspaper publisher and more. But Renslow’s social and cultural influence stretches far and wide, beyond the borders of Chicago. So it makes sense that Renslow’s story be told. I spoke with Owen Keehnen, co-author of “Leatherman: The Chuck Renslow Story” shortly before the publication of the book. Gregg Shapiro: Owen, when we spoke prior to this interview, you mentioned having interviewed Chuck Renslow years before this biography project. Is there something that you can recall about that experience you want to share? Owen Keehnen: It was probably, I think, fifteen years ago that I interviewed him. It was for an online leather blog that someone was doing. What struck me actually, in interviewing him that time was the scope of his experience. That he had done the (Kris) physique photography studio, that he’d done the Gold Coast, that he’d been involved in politics, that he’d been involved in the (news)paper. A lot of times when you interview people, you have so much that’s just about one thing, and with him it was more like there was one question or two questions about a lot of different things. GS: He is someone who had done a lot of living over the years. OK: Oh yeah, a lot. Capitalized, italicized [laughs]! GS: Why do you think that the time was right, right now, for a Chuck Renslow bio? OK: I think the time was right because, for one thing, Chuck was born in 1929, so on a basic level it’s like you have this huge reservoir of information that is this man, who’s 81. And on another level, I think because of his age, too, so many of the people from that era, which just was this amazing, vibrant…the 60’s, the 70’s, gay liberation, all of that stuff, there aren’t a whole lot of people left. It’s a very finite resource, and it was a population that was decimated by AIDS, and it was just important for this story to be preserved. GS: Was Chuck a willing subject and participant in the process? OK: Oh yes, yes. Chuck approached us to write his life story. He wanted to tell it warts and all, he didn’t really want to censor a lot that came out and he was very willing about that. GS: Would you describe Chuck as a raconteur? 50 boi

OK: Yes. What’s interesting is that in this book we include interviews with so many people. But what’s interesting a lot of times is hearing the tales from a lot of different perspectives. I’ll put it this way, he’s a good story teller, but you can bring up a story, and it will be like the craziest most insane scenario you can imagine. And he will go, “Oh, I completely forgot about that.” And it would be that sort of thing where you’d go like “Oh my god, how could you…” Where it’s like, “Geez, that would be like a defining point in my life.” GS: But he’s probably someone who had a lot of defining points. OK: Oh, yeah. This was so fascinating, because every single day of working on this project I would either gasp or laugh or just say, “Oh, this is really cool.” I never had a day of researching him where it was like, oh you know, just another boring story from Chuck. GS: As Resnlow’s biographer, what were some things that you were surprised to learn about him? OK: There’s the issue of you have of this vibrant business man and leather man who is out and known as the dominant-dominant top, and at the same time he also is an amazing gourmet cook, raised orchids and has this amazing paternal side. Like he always wants to protect and take care of people. I’d say probably his loyalty is really the most defining characteristic. People he considers close, he’s like a daddy bear. GS: Are there things about Renslow that you think readers will be surprised to learn? OK: Oh God, yes. That’s the amazing thing, too, there’s all these things going on simultaneously. There’s the leather scene, politically what’s going on, there’s news(paper), the bars, and at the same time he’s having this spiritual very important. Then over it all, is what’s called the Family, which is this created family he had of friends and lovers that were amazingly important to him, they had this incredible home life. All that is going on at the same time. I think people who are close to him are even going to be surprised by a lot of this stuff. GS: Prior to the Chuck Renslow bio, you wrote a series of “Starz” books in which you interviewed gay male porn stars. Do you think that the Renslow biography will have an appeal to that readership? OK: Well, one of the members of Chuck’s extended Family is (porn star) Jeff Stryker. And there are connections with porn stars from dancing at Man’s Country, from the sexual atmosphere at The Gold Coast and the Eagle, so I think that would appeal to that set, and IML. But I think this is (about) an era more than like a sexual snapshot, that really is evocative of gay life in the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, and up to the present.

AMERICAN___________ Chicago Diner 3411 N. Halsted | 773.935.6696 This world famous vegetarian restaurant offers vegan and organic offerings using the protein-based meat substitute seitan. Organic beers, wine, and spirits are also available. Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted | 773.477.1420 The kitchen at this popular bar serves up better and fancier food than it needs to. The menu ranges from gourmet salads and sandwiches to comfort food and fabulous brunch dishes. During the summer the outdoor dining space is lush and verdant. Halsted’s Bar & Grill 3441 N Halsted | 773.348.9696 This Boystown eatery serves up a wide array of tasty appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, and popular comfort food items at very reasonable prices in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Beers on tap are aplenty and the weekend brunch draws an attractive crowd. Hamburger Mary’s 5400 N Clark | 773.784.6969 “Eat, Drink and be... MARY” at this fun and popular Andersonville restaurant which features a wide array of burgers and sandwiches, along with an interesting selection of tasty appetizers. Wash it all down with one of Mary’s home-brewed ales.

fresh salads, a large selection of wraps, sandwiches, hearty entrees, pastas, and homemade deserts. ASIAN__________________ Jitlada Thai House 3715 N Halsted | 773.388.9988 This quaint family-owned eatery features Asian favorites such as Pad Thai, pineapple fried rice, crab rangoon, pot stickers, tempura and nine spice curry items. Delivery available. ITALIAN_________________ Anna Maria Pasteria 4400 N Clark | 773.506.2662 Owned by sisters who hail from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, this neighborhood gem creates homemade modern and traditional Italian dishes that are authentic, delicious & inexpensive. Angelina Ristorante 3561 N Broadway | 773.935.5933 Hosting the coolest and hippest Sunday brunch crowd in Lakeview, the menu includes Eggs Benedict, fritattas, Croque Monsieur and mufaletta sandwiches, almond-crusted stuffed French toast, and the free flow of Champagne mimosas. Brunch here is loud, raucous and FUN! Great for dinner, as well.

Horizon Café 3805 N. Broadway | 773.883.1565 This long-time popular Lakeview family restaurant serves up big portions of creative homestyle dishes as well as healthy fare (broth-based soups and whole wheat tortilla wraps) and at affordable prices. Check out the numerous Greek dishes from Yia-Yia’s recipe book. Breakfast served all day long. Delivery available.

Panino’s Pizzeria 3702 N. Broadway | 773.472.6200 Panino’s has established itself as a Boystown favorite with its varied menu selections, including gyros and burgers, pasta entrees, and of course pizza. Delivery available.

IHOP 3760 N Halsted | 773.296.0048 More than a pancake house, this 24-hour Boystown institution serves up affordably priced appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees that are sure to satisfy varying after-bar wants and needs.

Cesar’s 2924 N. Broadway | 773.296.9097; 3166 N Clark | 773.248.2835 This family-owned operation offers an enticing menu full of delicious Mexican recipes, popular house specialties, irresistible desserts, and their signature “Killer Margaritas.”

Kit Kat Lounge 3700 N. Halsted | 773.525.1111 Providing the best of diva entertainment along with a full dinner menu, they offer ½-price cocktails and Buy 1 Get 1 Free Entree on Wednesdays.. On Monday nights get 50% off your entire bill. Nookies Tree 3334 N. Halsted | 773.248.9888 A regular haunt for the locals of Boystown and popular with hangover recoverers, the diner serves made-toorder omelets, pancakes, waffles and other brunch fare all day. And it’s open 24 hours on weekends. Stella’s Diner 3042 N. Broadway | 773.472,9040 Friendly staff serve up delicious diner fare, such as:

MEXICAN/LATIN__________

That Little Mexican Cafe 1055 W. Bryn Mawr | 773.769.1004 Don’t let the unassuming storefront fool you, this is not just your average taco and burrito joint. The food is stepped up a few notches, the service is attentive and friendly and the drinks are strong. Even better, the prices are a steal. Mayan Palace 2703 N. Halsted | 773.935.4200 Known to be one of the very best Mexican restaurants in the city, the focus is on using fresh, high-quality ingredients for its “south of the border” cuisine. Portions are generous and the cool Margaritas dubbed “The World’s Best!” boi 53

YOU’RE THE TOP by Rick Karlin

In Chicago, eating is a almost a sporting event. Chicago has some signature dishes, and folks root for their favorite places for these dishes almost as much as for their favorite sports teams. We’ve rounded up some of the top places to sample Chicago’s home town favorites, and before locals start writing us about places we left off, allow us to point out that we’re only including places around the city where IML visitors are likely to find themselves.

Pizza

Yes, you can find super-thin crust gourmet pizzas (Great Lakes in Andersonville has been cited as having the world’s best pizza by GQ and received rave reviews from Food & Wine and The New York Times), but Chicago-style pizza is hearty; a knife and fork meal. Here are five of the most popular. • Giordano’s-730 N. Rush, 6836 N. Sheridan A double-decker stuffed pizza. • Pizzeria Uno 29 E. Ohio and • Pizzeria Due 619 N. Wabash Different owners, but the same family and the same original deep dish pie. • Lou Malnati’s-439 N. Wells Similar to Uno/Due, w/crisper crust & chunkier sauce. • Gino’s East of Chicago-633 N. Wells & Gino’s East1111 W. Granville Have a rabid fan base. The Granville location has had the same décor for 50 years.

Italian Beef

Truly unique to Chicago, the Italian Beef sandwich is variation on the French Dip. The options include plain or with either spicy or sweet peppers. Look like a local by asking for it “wet” (the entire sandwich dipped in the jus.) Here are three favorites. • Al’s #1 Italian Beef-169 W. Ontario • Mr. Beef-666 N. Orleans • Portillo’s-100 W. Ontario (our favorite)

Hot Dog

It seems as if each city has its own style of hot dog. Here in Chicago, we’re pretty straight forward. A steamed dog on a poppy-seed bun, a little celery salt and the works (onions, relish, tomatoes, mustard and a slice of dill pickle.) Super hot sport peppers are optional, catsup is not allowed. Here are some places that do the dog justice.

• Portillo’s-100 W. Ontario Yep, the same place as the Italian beef spot, a local mini-chain, you can’t go wrong with anything at this budget dining mecca. • Byron’s-1017 W. Irving Park (Hot Dog Trailer) Stumbling distance from the Halsted Street bars, but not open very late. • The Wieners Circle-2622 N. Clark (Hot Dog Trailer) A grilled dog and amusingly rude, but fun countermen open till the wee hours. • Hot Doug’s-3324 N. California Also off the beaten track, but worth a trip for any of the 18 gourmet dogs and the guilty pleasure of fries cooked in duck fat.

Side Orders

In addition to the hotly debated favorites above, there are a few Chicago institutions everyone agrees are the best. Garrett’s Popcorn-26 W. Randolph & 625 N. Michigan, among others. Freshly made popcorn, cheddar corn and caramel corn, or try the “Chicago Mix” all three together. You’ll become addicted after one bite. Intelligensia Coffee-3123 N. Broadway, 55 E. Randolph. Chicago’s hometown coffee roaster and café. One sip and you’ll be saying “Star-yuks!” Rainbow Cone-11 N. Michigan (in Millennium Park) Not quite the same charm as the far south side original location, but the same delicious layering of flavors: chocolate, pistachio, strawberry, orange sherbet and a vanilla-cherry-nut blend. XOCO-449 N. Clark. Food Network’s Top Chef Master, Rick Bayless, is behind this Mexican street food spot. Go for breakfast or late afternoon to avoid the lines. Heaven on Seven-111 N. Wabash. A restaurant’s got to be pretty good to survive on the 7th floor of an office building. This Cajun spot is way better than pretty good. A second location at 600 N. Michigan has the same food but not as nice an ambiance. Macy’s Food Court-111 N. State (lower level) Some of the gourmet offerings are; Frontera Fresco featuring Mexican fare from Rick Bayless (see XOCO above) and celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson’s Marc Burger as well as a deli, pastry shop and Godiva Chocolates. In case of inclement weather, take the underground Pedway from the lower level of the hotel directly to Macy’s.

IML Victory Celebration Party, Sunday, @ The House of Blues. Neill MacLeod is a Toronto-based

DJ, whose passion, energy and sexy beats have brought dance floors to life for more than 10 years. While in Ottawa working towards a degree in music education at the University of Ottawa he was drawn to the tempo and sounds of city’s house music and vibe. Soon afterwards he took the city by storm as his dj career captured local attention and took off. In less than a year he was performing in clubs such as Atomic, Icon and The Well. Since 2000 he’s called Toronto home, where he’s shared his sound in Fly, 5ive, The Barn, Guvernment, System Sound Bar and Comfort Zone. It wasn’t long before the world’s biggest circuit party organizers brought Neill on board to play parties such as Black & Blue Leather Ball, Twist, Hot & Dry, Bal des Boys and Red Party among others. Neill is the opening dj at the IML Victory Celebration Party.

Gary Izira packs dance floors

move all over the world with this his sexy combination of drums, deep house, dark beats, vocals, and tribal rhythms. His unique and original sounds have been called the perfect atmosphere for a fierce dance experience. Gary has been spinning at such events as; Evolution, White Party, Des Moines Pride, L.A. Gay Pride, The Fetish Ball, clubs in San Francisco, New York, LA, DC, Orlando, Palm Springs, Philadelphia, Germany, Venezuela, and Ibiza. He knows what his crowd wants and delivers the goods! The former International Mr. Leather title in 2008 is spinning the IML Victory Celebration Party at the House of Blues in Chicago.

age 15 he got his first real taste of the club scene, getting the opportunity to open up for the legendary Bad Boy Bill. Ron is deeply intrigued by tech house, disco and deep house, pulsating tribal rhythms, diva vocal anthems and chunky electro bass lines. Currently, he is a resident dj for Hunters Nightclub, Roscoe’s Tavern and the Armani Exchange. He’s also had the pleasure of spinning at many clubs both around Chicago (Circuit, Mary’s Attic, Minibar, Hydrate, Crobar) and around the country (Decibel-Milwaukee, The Compound-Denver and featured dj in the PUMP! Showcase at the Milwaukee Pridefest). In 2010 he teamed up with dj Daniel Borrero, their remix was chosen to be released on a special EP exclusively on Masterbeat. Ron G is the opening dj for The Black and Blue Ball.

Ted Eiel is one of the brightest talents on the dj

scene today. He has spun his supersonic sets of sexy, dirty beats at top-tier venues in the US and Europe. In the past 5 years, he’s headlined some of the biggest leather and bear parties in the country: Folsom Street Fair, Lazy Bear Weekend, Sanctuary (SF), Provincetown Bear Week, Winter Party Weekend (Miami/Ft. Lauderdale), Eagle LA’s Meat Rack, Up Your Alley’s Bay of Pigs (SF) and Superstar Sundays (Chicago). Ted’s also spun internationally playing both Megawoof! and Tonker in the U.K. and headlined 2 events for 2010 Madrid Gay Pride. His 2009 closing party for IML, The Black and Blue Ball was voted one of the best events of the decade in Chicago.

Ted has an aggressive, masculine sound that has been inspired by underground tracks drawn from classic house, electro, disco and rock. His music has been described as “muscle house” for men: sexy, funky, chunky house with an emphasis on dirty bass The Black and Blue Ball lines, melodic vocals and an intense energy that Monday @ Excalibur brings everyone to the floor. Ted’s hugely popular podcast, “Chunkhouse” featured on iTunes, ” has DJ Ron G realized his love for music at a very early more than 10,000 subscribers with more than 25,000 age. With 3 older siblings, disco, pop and dance music downloads a month, just celebrated 5 years and 2 has always been a part of his life. At age 11 he was million downloads by dance aficionados all over the introduced to the dj life by his brother. At the tender world. Ted will be spinning for The Black and Blue Ball. 58 boi

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American English is simply the best Beatle

tribute band of our time. At the inception of the band, they were voted “number one” by thousands of Beatle fans as winners of sound-alike contests at Beatlefest® for three consecutive years. They have also won Illinois Entertainer of the Year. Their demand here and abroad, coupled with their spectacular fan base, has anchored them into a professional setting, and launched them into larger venues and theatres worldwide. The fabulous foursome (currently Eric Michaels as Paul McCartney, Frank Canino as John Lennon, Tom Gable as Ringo Starr and Danny Leavitt as George Harrison) works hard to match the instrumentation of Beatles’ songs, with the help of its fifth member, Ken Zemanek, keyboardist and percussionist. As the show progresses so does the band members’ appearance. “Our look changes right before your very eyes, including the costumes, re-created to represent the Beatles’ different time eras, including the psychedelic “Sgt. Pepper” era, with decorated guitars and flashy jackets.” Michaels says with pride.

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Yoo-hoo! Hello leather men and leather ladies and

those of you who fall between the cracks. Welcome to Chicago, where the women are strong and the men are pretty. First a little orientation. Chicago’s based on a grid system, with State and Madison as the center. Each full block is one-eighth of a mile and is counted by hundreds. So, if you want to know how far the Halsted bars are from your hotel, you can do the math like so; the center of the strip is Roscoe and Halsted. Roscoe is 3400 north (34 blocks north of Madison, or nearly 6 miles) and Halsted is 800 west (8 blocks, or 1 mile west of State Street). So the Hyatt is about 6 miles from Halsted. Some of the buses that travel up and down Michigan Avenue will take you up to Boystown (The 151 Sheridan is a local, the 146 Marine/LSD {that’s short for Lake Shore Drive, not the drug} is an express). Just ask if the driver if the bus stops at Roscoe. Then walk west about three blocks and you’ll be in the heart of everything. Before we get down to business on all the IML goings on let’s dish a little about local news.... Homolatte @ Tweet/Big Chicks will feature Patrick M Paddock and Che Arthur on June 7 and Barrie Cole with Saoirse Ronne on the 21st.. Rihanna’s “Loud Tour” with special guests B.O.B and J. Cold swing in to the United Center on June 15... Jack’s (2856 N. Southport) is hosting a “Don’t GOprah Brunch” in honor of the diva’s final episode on May 25 from 8:30 to 11:30. The menu will feature many of Oprah’s “favorite things”, such as pomegranate martinis and sweet potato pie, and runs $12.

Tickets will be $5 in advance, $10 at the door. For $20 you get a VIP reception, your photo with the diva and sit close enough to smell her pansit! Now on to IML activities and related events. The city is just busting at the seams, with throbbing energy doing everything we can to make our out of town guests feel welcome. So whip it out (I mean your appointment book) and take note:

Friday, May 20

Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus Concert: “Divas!” 8 p.m. Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport.

Saturday, May 21

“Out in Chicago” - Chicago History Museum, 1601 N Clark. Exhibition explores how the evolution of Chicago’s gay communities. The “Out in Chicago” exhibit is believed to be the first major LGBT history project undertaken by a mainstream museum in U.S. history.

Monday, May 23

All-star reading of “All About Eve” at The Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse at 7 p.m. With Hollis Resnik and Larry Yando.

Wednesday, May 25

It’s service industry night at Cocktail, and before you haul out your fatigues, that means people in the food and beverage service industry. Still a lot of fun, though. And, if you’re really into uniforms, whip out that old IHOP outfit and go for it.

Thursday, May 26

I don’t know if the Lakeview Citizen’s Council planned this to follow IML, or if it’s just kismet, but the inaugural SausageFest Chicago takes place June 4-5, on the 3600 block of N. Sheffield One of the highlights of the event will be the crowning of the “Sausage King of Chicago.” Before you start lubing up the suction pump, it’s all about fundraising. Whoever garners the most pledges to benefit the Prostrate Cancer Foundation will be crowned “Sausage King” at the fest’s opening. For more information, check out www.chicagoevents. com.

Is it all right for a leather man to smile? How about bent over laughing? You may get a chance to see both at Sidetrack, the live comedy showcase, “Laugh Track” takes a decidedly more macho bent. Oh, don’t worry the hilarious Miss Bradley will still be in rare form, I’m sure.

Spin, your source for all things RuPaul’s Drag Race related, welcomes season-three finalist (and I think shoulda-been winner) Manila Luzon on June 4. 66 boi

Show your support for the troupes at Circuit Night Club tonight for the Military Ball presented by Nitro. There’s really nothing better than a military

You might want to toddle up the street a bit and stop in at Cocktail for “Twisted Trivia” with Teri Yaki and, if you get hungry, there’s an app for that. In fact there’s an appetizer buffet.

Friday, May 27

ball. When I was in the military I got balled as often as I could. Do tell! A special IML weekend planned at Smart Bar. Starting it off with DJs Teri Bristol & Psycho Bitch along with DJ Freddie Bain.

by Jack Daniel’s). Skin XVII at Steamworks w/live porn star performances by Spencer Reed & Phillip Aubrey. Like Hip Hop? Then head over to Circuit for the weekly Urbano party. hosted by Clubhouse Productions.

Liquor, I don’t even know her! You brought her, you liquor. That’s Shirley Q. Liquor, the decidedly NOT politically correct appearing at Hydrate for two nights. $20 for tix, $30 for VIP.

Sunday, May 29

Carmen Carrera, you know the queen from RuPaul’s show who couldn’t keep her clothes on, will be at Spin tonight for two shows. Tickets will be $5 in advance, $10 at the door. For $20 you get a VIP reception and your photo with the diva.

Spin’s hosting a jock party while the legendary Frankie Knuckles spins his house music at the War Party. Psst. If you text “knuckles” to 72106, you’ll get a discount on the admission price.

The Ram is hosting “Shameless”, an after-hours party. All I know is that the invite says to “enter in the rear.” I’m not gonna touch that line.

Of course, the big news is the IML contest and the official Victory Party at the House of Blues with former IML Gary Iriza showing off his licks (that’s licks with an L not a D) on the turntable (can we still say that even though it’s all on computer, now?)

Saturday, May 28

The annual Belmont & Sheffield Music Festival should give you plenty of fun in the sun and prepare your for all the night time activities, such as the “Recon” party at Jackhammer or the Bear Pub Crawl. For more afternoon fun, check out Cocktail where they invite you in from 3-6pm to pull some guy named Jack’s pork (Oh, my editor just informed me that it’s a pulled pork sandwich event sponsored

Stop by and visit Chicago’s gay den mother, Michelle Fire at Big Chicks and partake of her weekly free afternoon buffet.

Monday, May 30

Make it a Memorial Day that’s memorable. Sidetrack is hosting an afternoon Bear-B-Q. Which should give you enough sustenance to enjoy the official IML Black and Blue Ball at Excalibur. There’s a joke to be made about blue balls, but I’m all wrung out. Superstar DJ David Morales spins for the weekly Monday Night Bump party at Spy Bar..

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Touché 6412 N. Clark St.

www.touchechicago.com Chicago’s leather bar since 1977, Touché continues to be the center of Chicago’s leather/fetish community. Home bar of Rodeo Riders Chicago, the fisting club M.A.F.I.A., and the Great Lakes Bears, Touché also welcomes Chicago Hellfire Club, Windy City Bondage Club and several local fetish groups for regular parties. Touché sponsors Mr. Chicago Leather and Mr. Midwest Rubber contests and hosts monthly bear, gear and fetish nights. The front bar includes a pool table, darts and video games. The back bar, known as the Club Room, is always filled with an assortment of leathermen, fetish guys and bears having a great time.

Cell Block 3702 N. Halsted St. www.cellblock-chicago.com

Cell Block is the only leather bar located in the Halsted Street gay bar strip known locally as “Boystown.” The venue boasts a front bar, back bar and the popular CB’s in the rear. Cell Block is open until 2 a.m. (3 a.m. on Saturday) and will be hosting several special events during IML weekend. Cell Block is located steps away from The Center on Halsted, Chicago’s GLBT community center.

Jackhammer 6406 N. Clark St. jackhammer-chicago.com

Located on the far north side of the city, in the Rogers Park neighborhood, Jackhammer is a popular nightclub serving a diverse customer base. The main room features a dance floor and stage, while the upper level is home to a sports bar. The beer garden is a favorite gathering spot in warmer weather. “The Hole”, located on the lower level and enforces a strict leather/fetish dress code on Friday and Saturday nights, and has a great mix of guys in leather, fetish gear, jeans and military wear. Jackhammer is open until 4 a.m. (5 a.m.) on Saturdays and will be hosting several special events during IML weekend. boi 69

Boystown / Lakeview

3160 3160 N.Clark G&L, LM,DS Berlin 954 W. Belmont G&L, D, 4 Bobby Love’s 3729 N. Halsted G&L Buck’s Saloon 3439 N. Halsted G Cell Block 3702 N. Halsted G, LF Charlie’s 3726 N. Broadway G, D, W Circuit 2.02 3641 N. Halsted G&L, D, 4 Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted G, GB F. O’Mahony’s 3701 N. Broadway G&L, R Hydrate 3458 N. Halsted G, D, DS, 4 Kit Kat 3700 N. Halsted G&L, DS, R Little Jim’s 3501 N. Halsted G, V, 4 Lucky Horseshoe 3169 N. Halsted G, GB Manhandler 1948 N. Halsted G, W, 4 Minibar 3341 N. Halsted G, R North End 3733 N. Halsted G Roscoe’s 3356 N. Halsted G, D, V, DS Scarlet 3320 N. Halsted G Sidetrack 3349 N. Halsted G, V Smart Bar / Metro 3730 N. Clark MS, D, 4 Spin 800 W. Belmont G, D, V, DS The Closet 3325 N. Broadway G&L, V, 4

Chicago Downtown

Baton Show Lounge 436 N. Clark DS Club 720 720 N. Wells MS, D, 4 Crimson Lounge 333 N. Dearborn MS, D, R Downtown Bar & Lounge 440 N State G Excalibur/Vision 632 N. Dearborn MS, D, 4 Funky Buddha 728 W. Grand Ave. MS, D House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn MS, LM, 4 Krush/Prop House 1657 N. Elston G&L, D, 4 Juicy Fridays 2354 N. Clybourn Ave 2 Second Story Bar 157 E. Ohio G, V Sound Bar 226 W. Ontario MS, D, 4 Spy Bar 646 N. Franklin MS, D, 4 Underground 56 W. Illinois MS, D, 4 Vibe 1543 N. Kingsbury MS, D, 4

Chicago Northside

The Anvil 1137 W. Granville G, V @mosphere 5355 N. Clark G&L, V, GB Big Chicks 5024 N. Sheridan G&L, D, R

773.327.5969 773.348.4975 773.525.1200 773.525.1125 773.665.8064 773.871.8887 773.325.2233 773.477.1420 773.549.0226 773.975.9244 773.525.1111 773.871.6116 773.404.3169 773.871.3339 773.871.6227 773.477.7999 773.281.3355 773.348.1053 773.477.9189 773.549.4140 773.327.7711 773.477.8533

Chicago Southside

312.644.5269 312.787.8720 312.923.2473 312.464.1400 312.266.1944 312.666.1695 312.923.2000 773.486.2390 773.383.5518 312.923.9536 312.787-4480 312.587.8779 312.644.7600 312.266.1900

Club Escape 1530 E. 75th G&L, D Escapades 6301 S. Harlem G&L, D, V, 4 Inn Exile 5758 W. 65th G&L, D, V Jeffrey Pub 7041 S. Jeffrey G&L, D, V, 4

Chicago Suburbs

773.973.0006 773.784.1100 773.728.5511

773.667.6454 773.229.0886 773.582.3510 773.363.8555

Hideaway 7301 W. Roosevelt Forest Park G, D, V, DS, GB Club Krave 13126 S. Western Blue Island G&L, D, V, DS, GB, 4 Hunters 1932 E. Higgins Elk Grove Village G, D, V, GB, 4 Mission 209 E. Chicago Downtown Elgin G&L, D, V Encompass 24215 Rush St. Lake Station, IN G&L, D, R, DS Velvet Rope 728 Lake St Oak Park G&L, D, V, R

Adult Entertainment

G------------------------------------------------------------------Gay Male L---------------------------------------------------------------------Lesbian G&L-------------------------------------------------Gay Male & Lesbian D-------------------------------------------------------------------Dancing V-----------------------------------------------------------------------Video GB-------------------------------------------------------------Go Go Boys DS--------------------------------------------------------------Drag Show R--------------------------------------------------------Restaurant, Food

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The Call 1547 W Bryn Mawr G&L, D, DS, V, LM 773.334.2525 Crew 4804 N. Broadway G&L, V, R 773.784.2739 Davenport’s 1383 N. Milwaukee G&L, LM 773.278.1830 Debonair Social Club 1575 N. MilwaukeeAve. MS, D 773.227.7990 Fat Cat 4849 N. Broadway MS, R 773.506.3100 Green Dolphin St. 2200 N. Ashland G&L, D, LM, 4 773.395.0066 Green Mill 4802 N. Broadway MS, LM, 4 773.878.5552 In Fine Spirits 5420 N Clark MS, R 773.334.9463 Jackhammer 6406 N. Clark G, D, V, GB, LM, 4 773.743.5772 Joi de Vine 1744 W. Balmoral L, R 773.989.6846 Kinetic Playground 1113 W. LawrenceMS, D, LM, 4 773.769.5483 Marty’s 1511 W. Balmoral G&L 773.561.6425 Mary’sAttic 5400 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Parlour On Clark 6341 N. Clark 773.564.9274 Mary’s RecRoom 5402 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Scot’s 1829 W. Montrose G&L 773.528.3253 SoFo Bar 4923 N. Clark G 773.784.7636 T’s 5025 N. Clark G&L, R 773.784.6000 The Glenwood 6962 N Glenwood G 773.764.7363 Touché 6412 N. Clark G, V, LF, 4 773.465.7400

Banana Video 4923 N. Clark G, BK Bijou Theater 1349 N. Wells G, GB, BK Man’s Country 5017 N. Clark G, GB, BH Steamworks 3246 N. Halsted G, BH, FC The Ram 35111/2 N. Halsted G, BK, D

708.771.4459 708.597.8379 847.439.8840 847.488.0320 219.962.4640 708.358.8840

773.561.8322 312.943.5397 773.878.2069 773.929.6080 773.525.9528

4-------------------------------------------------------------Open til 4am MS--------------------------------------------------------Mostly Straight LF---------------------------------------------------------Leather / Fetish W-------------------------------------------------------------------Western LM--------------------------------------------------Live Music / Cabaret BH--------------------------------------------------------------Bath House BK----------------------------------Adult Book, Booth & Video Store FC-------------------------------------------------------------Fitness Club