Margaret: SouthEast Bootblack 2010
Calendar of Events
August 21: FIST Baltimore/Washington; "Are you New? Dungeon 101 and Etiquette"
August 28: SAF Spring, TX; Bootblacking 101 and Erotic Bootblacking
September 3: BR 101 Night, The Crucible; Washington, D.C.; Bootblacking demo
June 2010 Column
SELF 2010 celebrated 15 years of community. A community I have come to call home over the past 3 years. A few weeks ago I was approached by Catherine Gross about holding the title of SouthEast Bootblack for another year. The decision to hold the title for a second year was not an automatic one. It was one that took a great deal of thought and consideration. After discussion with my family, and a bit of negotiation *grins* I am honored to say I am SouthEast Bootblack 2010. Although not stepping down as such, I did prepare some remarks for the SELF Celebration and Contest so I could share with the SELF family what my year had looked like. I share them with you all here now.
What a year it has been! So many adventures and opportunities for community building.
I traveled to places as near as 20 minutes from my back door to as far as San Francisco. I learned quickly just how to get a bootblack kit through airport screening and bless Southwest Airlines and their bags fly free! After traveling approximately 20,000 miles, I can see just how far and wide our tribe extend and the beautiful diversity that it encompasses… WOW just WOW!!
It began with American Brotherhood Weekend in New Orleans and never slowed down. I had the privilege of representing the Southeast region at the first Philadelphia Leather Pride Night. I attended SouthPlains LeatherFest and International Ms. Leather in support of my title family during their competitions and was proud to call them family.
How could I forget seeing Karen/Ultra as Ms. Clause at the 12 Days of Christmas Fundraiser in Baltimore… so much fun. Presenting at Whippersnappers in Atlanta was a highlight but heading to Tennessee for SJW was a coming home of sorts for me. This year also provided opportunity for involvement with my local community. Thank you RSVP for providing a place to come home to.
Everyone I met during my year touched my life in some way. pony – reminding me to rock it out regardless of what the world throws at you. slave barb—who reminded me what stories are really about. And a dear friend who in her second youth of her 70’s discovered what it is that we do. There are so many more… but Nic limited me to 3 minutes so for a few thank you’s…
Sir Kris and Kendell – for being there always! Y'all are amazing
The SE Bootblacks who have come before me – Y’ALL ROCK!! Thank you for the legacy.
Solitaire, my Princess Sister – That sums it up, no other words needed. Thank you for being you
Everyone who supported me throughout my title year – thank you from the bottom of my heart, it truly takes a village
The SELF Board – Thank you for your hard work and dedication to this amazing event. It gives us all a place to come home to.
Lady Catherine – WOW Amazing producer! Thank you for your dedication to the house that Jack built. I look forward to another year.
My owners Lee and Buz – your unwavering support and love smoothed out the rough spots and made the good times all the better. I love you so very muc