Tonight, we celebrate an individual whose impact has quietly but powerfully shaped the fabric of our community. This award honors not just service, but a deep and lasting commitment to others — a commitment reflected in every action they take.

What makes their contributions especially remarkable is the authenticity behind them. They don’t seek recognition — in fact, they often work behind the scenes — yet their impact is undeniable and far-reaching.

One person said, “They are the kind of person who shows up when it matters most, without being asked and without expecting anything in return.”

Another shared, “Their patience as an instructor is unmatched — they meet you where you are and help you grow from there, no matter how long it takes.”

A third statement was a testament to their value: “They have created a sense of belonging and mastery for generations of learners, leaving a legacy that will continue long after any single class ends.”

These words only begin to capture the depth of their influence. Through compassion, humility, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, they have helped build a stronger, more connected community.

Their ability to teach, to mentor across generations, and to bring people together with purpose is what truly sets them apart. They embody the spirit of service in its purest form — not for recognition, but for the betterment of others.

For decade after decade after decade, they have served as a multigenerational educator, dedicating their time, energy, and heart to teaching and guiding others. Their presence has been a constant source of knowledge and encouragement, and their influence spans generations. They have mentored countless individuals, patiently helping them grow, refine their abilities, and build confidence in themselves.

Anyone who has ever picked up a whip in their presence has walked away better — not just in skill, but in understanding, discipline, and respect for the craft. Their ability to teach goes beyond technique; they instill passion, responsibility, and a sense of belonging in everyone they work with.

From the very beginning, they have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to lifting others up. Whether through small, thoughtful gestures or larger, organized efforts, they consistently show that service is not an obligation, but a calling. Their work has created meaningful connections, strengthened relationships, and inspired those around them to do more and be more.

It is with great pleasure that SELF recognizes their extraordinary service, compassion, and commitment to inclusivity by awarding the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to Dex.

Each year, the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award recognizes an organization, business, or person that has gone above and beyond in building not just connections—but community. This year’s recipient has done just that: opened doors, lifted others up, and created a space where individuals are not just welcomed but empowered. They also epitomize the charitable concerns of many.
This organization exemplifies what it means to lead through service. They are fully volunteer-run, working tirelessly to create a place where everyone—regardless of background, experience, or identity—can learn, explore, and grow safely. They’ve turned a venue into a haven, one that offers knowledge, support, and most importantly, belonging.

One nominator wrote:
“This place is more than just a dungeon. It is home to many. It’s the place you can come and just be who you are or want to be.”

Another shared:
“The staff made me feel comfortable and safe. I was able to take my time learning... I can’t express enough how much they changed my life by finding a community I fit into.”

One submission touched on the breadth of their impact:
“They organized a can drive that brought food to groups in Florida and Mississippi, focusing on veterans and LGBTQIA2S+ teens. They also gathered supplies after hurricanes and drove them to affected areas.”

And the next statement was a testament to their core values:
“Everyone is treated the same—10 years of experience or one. It’s a place of ever-learning, where no one is shamed and all are included.”
These words came from the heart of a community that knows exactly what it means to be seen, supported, and safe—because this organization made that possible.

It is with great pleasure SELF recognizes their extraordinary service, compassion, and commitment to inclusivity by awarding the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to The Rack Room of Milton, FL.

Our award winner is a truly exceptional individual, someone whose dedication and service to our community have left an indelible mark. This person has been an integral part of our community since the early 2000s, and his path is a testament to his unwavering commitment and remarkable spirit.

He is a cornerstone of our community. He is a quiet example of how to help and guide others through difficult times. As person noted, "He has given selflessly of himself for many years. His commitment to the community through teaching and serving the greater good is the definition of leadership."

His impact is felt deeply within his Leather House and extended Leather family. Another person shared, "He is one of the rare individuals you could call in the middle of the night and he would come without question or complaint. He leads with humor, rarely takes himself too seriously, and has an amazing capacity to make people feel comfortable."

His role as a mentor and confidant has inspired many. His involvement with the Tradesmen, his support for House of Mercy, and his efforts in organizing events like the annual Tradesmen Run have brought joy and camaraderie to our community. As one person expressed, "He has inspired me on my Leather journey through the telling of his own and the way he lives his life. He is a great confidant, mediator in times of confusion and conflict, and a Leatherman that inspires me to constantly do better."

From the very beginning, he has been involved in CAPEX, MAsT, and numerous other organizations, sharing his knowledge and wisdom through teaching, talking, and demonstrations.

Here are more quotes from the many nominations we received:

"He is such an awesome person all around. He's been around the block and it's definitely not his first rodeo. He's smart, funny, and I can't say enough about the way he's helped and enlightened folks over the years."

"He is renowned for his classes on polyamory. His humility and dedication are truly inspiring."

"He is the type of individual that will serve the community in whatever way is needed, and he is incredibly humble. He is an amazing Master, friend, and mentor, leading with integrity even when it is hard."

"He worked tirelessly to make sure that CAPEX was the best group it could be. When the need is there, Stick always steps up without hesitation. He is a rock that both myself and the community can rely on."

In recognition of his decades of service, his unwavering commitment, his humility, kindness, and his profound impact on our community, we are honored to present Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to Stick.

Tonight's honoree has had a long and storied history. They have consistently strived to make a positive impact, fostering a strong sense of union and inclusivity within the leather community. Their commitment to service extends far beyond social gatherings and into the very heart of their communities needs.

Holding the distinction of being one of the longest continuously running leather organizations in the southeast, their legacy is a testament to their unwavering spirit and dedication. Their strength lies within their bonds with each other, a dedicated network of alumni, honorary, associate members, and friends. Together, they activate as a powerful force for good.

One person stated, "They have created a space for connection and joy, year in and year out, without fail."

Another testament to their impact comes from a long-time supporter who said, "Our strength lies within our bonds of brotherhood and a dedicated network of alumni, honorary, associate members, and friends. Together we activate as a powerful force for good."

As we look to the future, we are confident they will continue to be a beacon of hope, compassion, and community spirit. Their dedication to making a positive difference within the community sets a high standard for all of us to follow.

Thank you for your tireless efforts, your unwavering commitment, and your enduring legacy of service. Here's to many more years of fostering a community where love, support, and brotherhood thrive.

Renowned for their annual Toys for Tots drive, they ensure that less fortunate children experience the joy of the holiday season, bringing smiles and warmth to many young hearts. Their compassion and dedication are further exemplified by their longstanding partnership with The House of Mercy, a local mission that supports individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS. To date, they have raised and donated over $90,000 to this worthy cause. Year after year, they provide annual holiday meals and summer cookouts, creating spaces for connection, joy, and community bonding.

It is with great pleasure SELF recognizes 39 years of impact, unwavering brotherhood, and relentless compassion by awarding the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to the The Tradesmen Leather Levi Club of Charlotte.

Our awardee has an unwavering commitment to diligent work and tireless contribution to his community. His resolute dedication to the promotion of diversity, equality, and inclusivity within the community is a testament to his character as an inspirational and benevolent individual who consistently seeks to give back.

He is kind to everyone he meets. He is a leader and mentor and the example he sets is inspiring. He has an unwavering commitment to empowering people of color in BDSM.

Through his dedication to BDSM ideals, he spreads knowledge and fosters community. His commitment is remarkable. His passion for teaching and deep understanding of power dynamics is invaluable. He communicates complex ideas engagingly and in ways that are accessible to all he encounters. He stands apart as a trustworthy and deserving community ambassador who, through action and example, exemplifies pride, value, and belief in self. He is a notable figure in the leather community with an outstanding reputation, bar none. His impact on the lives of those he encounters is immeasurable.

He is a leader in the BDSM community, and his work as a mentor, activist, journalist, and educator has had a profound impact on countless individuals. Through his commitment to promoting inclusion and diversity, he has created a space where everyone can feel welcome and valued, regardless of their background or identity.

As a journalist, he has used his platform to promote awareness and understanding of BDSM, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions and advocating for greater visibility and acceptance. His work has been instrumental in shaping public perceptions of BDSM and promoting a more nuanced understanding of this complex and often misunderstood subculture.

It is with great warmth that I am honored to present the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to J. Tebias Perry.

ONYX is an organization formed and operated by Men of Color who enjoy the leather lifestyle. ONYX sets as its goal to provide an informational and social organization to address issues specific to people of color who chose to project the positive aspects of the leather lifestyle and support our community and economic initiatives.

Support, spirituality, safety and saneness are keys to attaining our goals. Toward this end, it is the principle aim of ONYX to develop in its members the highest standards of loyalty to the laws and established code of ONYX and to treat all in society with honor, unselfishness and tolerance.

It is the responsibility of each member to uphold the traditions, standards and practices of this organization as well as the time honored principles of democracy on which this country was built.

It is the fundamental belief of this organization that no finer means is offered for the achievement of these aims than the brotherly association of persons with similar tastes, inclinations and goals.

ONYX was founded in 1995 in Chicago to provide education, fraternization and serve as a bridge for Men of Color to the greater Leather community. Mufasa organized the founding members. The Founding Fathers of ONYX were: Mufasa, David M., Steve B., Nate G. and Wes G. They formed the first Board of Officers with Mufasa (President), Nate (Vice President), David (Pledge Master), Wes (Secretary) and Steve (Treasurer). ONYX's first pledge was Bill H. and the colors were designed by ONYX brother Charles C. of Caliber Leathers.

ONYX has had a long standing reputation within the Leather Community with members nationwide and internationally. We are the longest existing Leather club for People of Color and are known for our hospitality and our infamous annual ONYX Leather Dance at International Mr. Leather Weekend in Chicago and our Gear Show/Cocktail party at Mid Atlantic Leather in Washington, DC. ONYX celebrates its bi-annual anniversary Weekend Run "BLACKOUT" hosted by one of our Nine Chapters!.

ONYX has always been involved in charity work. There are nine chapters: Midwest (based in Chicago), Southeast (based in Atlanta), Northeast (based in New York City), Mid-Atlantic (based in Washington, DC), Southwest (based in Los Angeles), Great Lakes (based in Cleveland and Detroit), Northwest (based in San Francisco), Lone Star (based in Dallas) and Deep South (based in Ft. Lauderdale) where each chapter is involved in contributing back to the Leather, LGBTQ and People of Color communities. HIV prevention and care organizations and those that aid youth have always been of note.

ONYX Southeast was founded in August 1999 to provide education, fraternization and serve as a bridge for Men of Color to the greater Atlanta Leather community. The Founding Fathers of ONYX Southeast are : Stan, EJ, Jamal, Reggie and Ric. Their first bar night was held at the Atlanta Eagle on the First Sunday in 1999. The bar night date would soon be switched and has remained the First Friday of each month since 2000. We are the most successful club night at the Atlanta Eagle with the legendary DJ – Ron Pullman with Pullman Soul!. Over the years, ONYX Southeast has connected with many Leather Clubs/Organizations and LGBTQ events throughout the Southeast including Southeast Conference of Clubs, Big Boy Pride, Central Alabama Pride, Leather to Geaux and many more!

ONYX-SE is a regional chapter of The Men of ONYX Inc., which is a National Organization. That means we exist as a chapter to a larger organization that is nationally governed. Our mission is the same as that of The Men of ONYX, Inc. and we hold true to the values and principles of the ONYX Men Code.

All who support our cause may become members of ONYX. We thank the elders in the People of Color Leather Community for paving the way in order for us to exist. ONYX honors that tradition and looks forward to many more years.

This awardee has been a quiet force and a booming voice in the southeast and nationally. He is someone who has given solace to those in the middle of a storm and proven to be someone you can count on when the going gets tough.

One person shared, "Whenever you need him he is there. To vent to, to dream with, to celebrate with, this awardee gives his everything to leather. I can not think of anyone more deserving."

Another added, "This awardee steps up and does more for the community than I know. He is full of giving and heart!"

Another said, "The awardee has been a part of our communities for many years. He has served with Bootblack titles and with boy titles. He has been den daddy, handler and more."

He has spent the time and the travel promoting how boys have a voice! The message shared was important for boys to expand their consent and to be fully who they are in their relationships.

And another email stated, "He is a founding member of the Leather History Preservation Foundation and has been a part of that weekend since the beginning. He has worked in the back quite a bit as he is never looking for the big acknowledgement and rewards of doing good. I have known him to reach into his own pocket to pay the way for someone because they didn't have the funds to do so and he knew they needed to be at an event."

He has been an ally, an adversary, a shoulder, a strong supporter, a mentor and a friend to far too many to name. He is stronger and influences more people than he ever realizes.

The Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award goes to Dave Hudson.

 Ms. Sadie Hawkins (given posthumously)

This award is being given posthumously.

I had admired Goddess Sadie for years before meeting her in person. She welcomed me into her family and the leather community. She was always happy to share words of wisdom and support.

I have never met a person who was more full of heart and community service driven in my life. I was able to witness her countless selfless engagements and work for/with the various Leather, Kink, fetish and BDSM community here in Phoenix Az as well as all over the Country. She is greatly missed and loved amongst her peers.

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This individual held grace and standard to a higher standard. She embodied a leather heart day in and day out. Her community involvement and contributions are paramount to POC and the like.

Her accolades include:
Invoking empowering and enlightening moments by providing educational experiences in the following alternative lifestyles: BDSM, Fetish/Kink, Leather, Polyamory, Tantra, Sacred Sexuality, LGBTQQIAA, & Female Led Relationships.

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Sadie Hawkins was the last fully active charter member of the Onyx Pearls SE chapter. She felt it was a moral obligation & true Leather Heart to uphold our ONYX Pearls Core Values of Authenticity, Integrity, Respect and with the utmost of transparency to preserve the Sisterhood and our community of Leather Women of Color.

She believed it was a part of her personal legacy to maintain the same commitment level to OPSE in 2018 that she had in 2008.

She had immense Love & Devotion for her ONYX Family.

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Goddess Sadie, was a mentor, and educator and above all a Transparent leather woman of color. She has definitely put in her time over her almost 15-20 years in leather and is deserving of this award.

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Sadie Hawkins affectionately known as Goddess Sadie Hawkins to most who knew her was my mentor for 5 years before she was tragically taken from me and those whose lives she touched.

She was a true beacon within our Phoenix Leather Community. She believed in Transparency, Honor, Education, Integrity, and Respect.

· Sadie Hawkins was a valuable member of our community and in the unfortunately brief time I knew her, she provided me with insight and wisdom as a Queer WOC and member of the kink community that I will hold dear to me throughout my life. The warmth, compassion, kindness, and introspection she contributed to the community, especially ONYXX Pearls, and the mentorship she had provided my GF at the time (who is now a board member of ONYXX Pearls ATL) were truly invaluable and our community is better for her being a part of it.

It is impossible to list all her involvement across many communities. She contributed to over 19 organizations, personally moved people to do their best and was willing to take on the next challenge. She was a woman willing to take risks and there is no amount of words that could even begin to express how deeply she will be missed personally and how grateful we all are for her willingness to contribute and care.
Sadie Hawkins, you are the embodiment and winner of the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award.

2017 Jack Stice Memorial Award Winner

This man has impacted your life whether you know it or not.

He has designed and participated in various efforts which have bettered our health, our accessibility, our political structures, art, fun and our opportunity to find ourselves.

Generations of people have been provided a hands-on opportunity to learn and create understanding between communities that did not know what they had in common. Attendance at that event became personal, enriching and fostered generations to set the bar higher.
He’s been tying people up for 30 years and dressing the rest of us since 1995. Through his business he has provided meeting space, classes and another outlet for education and community gatherings for decades. His support of GLBT and Bear communities has kept the party going. He made room for women when it wasn’t easy, simple, or politically advantageous. He practices what it is to be a good ally.

He has sponsored and supported more events, parties, gatherings, dances, balls, tea dances, banquets, then you or I will most likely attend in a life time.

His charitable concerns and efforts through the years have exceeded in raising 7 figures and benefited political movements, social organizations, and many non-profit organizations.

His contribution to Leather Archives & Museum could not be summed up here and you won’t find it online. He’s not a man to tout his accomplishments—he’s a man who chooses to get the work done, while supporting causes for change much to the improvement and the betterment of others.

He is the longest seated LA&M board member, after Chuck Renslow, at the Leather Archives and Museum. He has spent 18 years, 0 months and 21 days since he was first persuaded by Bill Kostamiris and Tony DeBlase to get on board, so to speak. He was instrumental in creating “Fire in the Belly” that raised $400,000 to burn the mortgage within five years of buying the building.

At the mortgage burning ceremony at LA&M, he said, “The first question we all ask, once we’ve been fed, clothed, sheltered, and been laid, is: “Who am I, how do I fit into this world that I live in, and what makes me special?” And we answer those questions by creating a religious space. We create a holy space. That space preserves our heritage, our stories, our literature, our art, our fiction. And this, my friends, is a holy space to the leather community. . . .”

It is not just at LA&M where you have created holy space. Thank you for creating holy space for people of all walks, for every attendee that walked through the door of Leather University, for the clubs who needed space, and providing vast opportunities to find what is holy in ourselves and look good while doing it from our leathers to our boots!

I’m taking a page from Tony and Bill’s playbook. I believe you’re used to the presence of Jack (place the bottle of Jack Daniels on the podium) when reflecting on the importance of the past. I have brought you Jack Daniels to celebrate a lifetime of creating history on the night you are the recipient of the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award that celebrates heroes. Thank you, Randall “Bear Man” Klett for a lifetime of service.

Master Tom and slave Linda (Master Tom deceased July 27, 2020)
Our award winners have been a couple who exemplify the Master/slave life. Those extraordinary people have been loving each other for twenty-one years. They bravely stood up and proclaimed love, obedience, mastery and marriage when these words weren’t said together in our M/s communities but were treated with suspicion. Like many M/s couples 15 years ago they heard how marriage and M/s didn’t go together. They heard how being in love wasn’t supposed to be part of a dynamic. They heard how a strong, smart, powerful slave wasn’t really taking direction and obedient to her Master.

They stood to be counted among us and educate us to dispel the myths of M/s. They did this for their community not once but twice. The first time they won the title SE Master/slave at Together in Leather. The second time, in 2009 they stepped forward to represent Masters and slaves for SELF. Having been previously vetted for the title, they accepted the challenge with such grace and dedication when their region truly needed them. Not when it was convenient for them.

The humility exhibited by this M/s couple has been a hallmark of how they have interacted with each other and others. Their educational efforts have provided generations with inspiration and possibility.

Many say the words of a slave are a reflection of the Master and provide a window into the integrity of the relationship. It was this integrity of a Master/slave relationship that they gave willingly to our communities who needed to witness a model and example of M/s at its best.

This slaves’ words in her speech when they competed for the M/s International title were:
“Being a slave for me means complete devotion, submissive surrender, but not blind submission and certainly not letting go of all limitations. As his devoted slave, I cannot hold my tongue while Master goes blindly into the dark to experience things that I know will either be bad for Him or have regrettable consequences without offering him what I see and knowing the final decision is his alone. As a human being, I have limitations. I can only trust that Master knows these limits and respects them…for He must if I am to call Him Master. He does and it is through Master I have become a completely surrendered slave who knows her slave heart.

So, what does it take to be a slave? Brains, brawn, diplomacy, strength of mind body and soul, utter devotion, complete surrender, and the stubbornness to face the one who owns you and let them know, albeit respectfully, that this may not be the correct path to take at the present time. I have found in my journey that when I completely surrendered, gave complete unwavering devotion, maintained strength of mind body and soul, and occasionally said no, my slave heart bloomed and Master was there to make sure it gets all the sunshine and dominance it needs to survive.”

It is with unmitigated joy I have the pleasure of awarding the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to Master Tom and slave linda, your SE Master/slave 2009 and 2004.

2015 Jack Stice Memorial Award

The recipient of the Jack Stick Memorial Service Award received many votes. He is a prominent member of the leather community for more than 20 years.

I want to read some quotes from his nominations:

“His dedication to the community is untiring and never ending. He is always stepping up and volunteering to do "what ever needs to be done."
“He continues to give and give. He often does this going unnoticed and without asking for anything in return. It's rare to see him at an event when he's not up to his ears doing something for someone or the event. He truly is one of a kind. He is someone that you should know. He is the working definition of community service.”

“He has helped raise in excess of $80,000 for charitable concerns. He can always be counted on. I don't travel anywhere in the community that someone doesn't ask me about him.”

“He has such a heart for community. I couldn't imagine a more deserving winner for this award. He never hesitates to jump in and help out fundraisers, contests, or events. Anything that needs to be done, he will do.”

“He has been of selfless service to the greater community. Timmy has raised more money, for countless causes and volunteered his time, all with the grace he can muster and a open heart that is rarely seen.”

“He is a leader without leading, he is the person you can look at and say- he leads by example. He has never asked anything in return and is a wonderful human being.”

“He brings knowledge and experience as well as a healthy dose of down-home, country advice. “

“His laugh and presence are felt immediately when he enters a venue because he is sure to be greeting, hugging, giggling, catching up with all that he sees. He really is an ambassador for the Leather community. He has been known to host events on his own because "somebody has to do it".
“He is one of the most giving men I know. He gives freely of his time, his talent, and his heart. He has poured untold hours into his work in the leather community. He has invested thousands and thousands of hours into raising funds for House of Mercy (HoM), our local HIV and AIDS hospice center. When we visit with the residents at House of Mercy, Tim's heart is at its best. He hugs everyone, he sits and talks with the men and women there, he loves them unconditionally, and it shows.”

This man is an educator, role model and gives when and where it is needed. He does so without asking for recognition or status. He earns the respect of those around him by deed and consistent willingness to step in and do what needs to be done big and small. He helps make the world a better place and shows each of us how we too can be better.
It is a privilege to present the current President of the Tradesman, Tim Smith, with The Jack Stice Memorial Service Award.

Our next recipient has been in the community for over 20 years. He has presented classes for our communities in NC, SC, TN, and VA.

The numerous emails we received spoke eloquently to his contributions both personal and social. A few of them said:

“He is a counselor and mentor to many in the community and conducts Himself with great honor and integrity.”

“He has shown amazing desire to reach out to others to teach and instruct them in safety and developing quality relationships within the community.”

“Respect is something that is earned over time. It comes from how you present yourself and how others perceive you and does not or should not come from self promotion. He is humble and always makes sure others get credit for hard work. I have been in the lifestyle for many years but it has only been the last 3 that I have come to understand submission and all that goes along with it. That growth is a direct result from his efforts. “

"He has been instrumental in the development and continuation of CAPEX since its second year. CAPEX has benefited from his hard work, leadership, direction and purpose. He has held various positions and his contribution has been invaluable to their organization through thick and thin and their SIGs."

One of the quotes we found most moving was:

“He has been the model Dom that all could try to aspire to be. His kindness, and open heart have helped many not only in CAPEX but also in life. He has truly changed the lives of all in our community for the better and W/we all owe Him a great thanks.”

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. We’re proud to present the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to NC Master.

Four years ago, when the Middle Tennessee leather community was in need of new avenues for growth, a small group of dedicated individuals formed a 501c7 non-profit corporation with the express purpose of establishing a pansexual, world-class dungeon in Middle Tennessee. After many setbacks, a lot of persistence and tons of elbow grease, this dungeon opened in September 2005. Within six months, the facility was operating in the black and now continues to provide a facility for the local community that is open every Friday and Saturday evening throughout the year with the exception of the weekend closest to Christmas.

Their opening event was a fundraiser for the victims of the tragic Hurricane Katrina that had recently stuck. That night all proceeds were donated to the American Red Cross' Katrina relief efforts. The community raised more than $800 that became $1600 when donated through a members employer who matched the funds.

Each December, they host a fund-raising event for the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom. To date, these events, featuring a silent auction, have raised in excess of $2,000 for NCSF. They have supported Nashville Pride, SELF, and have plans to support future events including Frolicon.

In late 2006, the local lifestyle educational organization ceased operations. By early 2007, they began offering monthly educational seminars featuring a mix of local and nationally known individuals speaking on a wide variety of topics of interest to the local community. These educational events, held on the first Saturday of every month, are open to anyone who is interested, whether or not they are a member of the organization. Their membership has grown to almost 250 members since opening and they have fostered a belief in the concept of an extended shepherding Leather Family with the safety, protection, and learning that goes along with that. They have grown to serve all aspects of the community with socials, mixers, balls, galas, munches, and classes as well as various out-reach programs.

They have a solid reputation for cleanliness, openness, inreach and outreach in their region. Consequently, visitors regularly travel from across the region and across the U.S. to experience all they have to offer.

One of the nominations received stated, “When I first came with a friend to this dungeon I was really shy. I didn’t say a lot to people and pretty much had always felt like a complete outsider. I had so many people welcome me and become a part of my life. Everything is different now and I’m not shy anymore. I do all sorts of things I never thought I would do. They changed my life so much.”

Because of the successes in community building, outreach, education and charitable activities, we’re proud to award the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to The Mark of Nashville, TN.

Our next recipient has been a member of the community for almost 15 years. His contributions to various communities span gender and sexual preference have been felt from coast to coast.

He served—for a year each—as co-producer for Florida Leather Sir/boy and as producer for N. Florida Drummer to support and continue the traditions and ideals behind these titles. He was Florida Drummer in 1995 and Mr. Suncoast Eagle in 2002. He was also the recipient of Pantheon's Florida Regional Award in 2006. He has generously used his artistic talent to support those in financial need such as: Master Doug Harris of the Sanctuary in the form of a rendering of his Master’s Cap, Ms. Khiki and slave samantha during their International Master/slave title year by creating a greeting card version of their portrait, and Ms. Karen McGhee during her Ms. World Leather title year by creating a greeting card version of her portrait to assist her in raising funds for HIV-infected homeless people to name a few.In his capacity as portrait artist for five contests including ImSL, Ms. World Leather, International Leather Sir/boy, International Master/slave and Mr. Toronto Leather), he has created portraits that have captured the essence of these titleholders who have so faithfully served our community, gifting them with a tangible memory and symbol of their title year. He has also donated several of his preliminary drawings of these titleholders to the Leather Archives and Museum.He hosted and facilitated BDSM education and support classes at River City Dungeon in Jacksonville from 2003-2005 and has hosted and facilitated MaST meetings in Jacksonville, Fl. For the past three years.He established the Castro Street Arts Foundation to support art/erotic artists in the BDSM community. While his efforts to give to various communities has brought awareness, needed funds and lasting contributions, he has personally given of himself as well.In the letters received, this is what some shared:

“He is a tremendous force and role model here in Jacksonville.”

“He is a man of his word, leads by example and holds himself to the same high standards that he expects from those around him. He has nurtured and mentored many in the community over the last 15 years. “

“He has given time, energy and attention to mentor and encourage many in his local community, helping them to grow and blossom so that they, in turn, could contribute their enthusiasm, talent and energy to the betterment of their communities. His straight-forward character, grace, integrity and devotion to the leather lifestyle are reflected not just in what he says, but in his actions. In these ways, Ray carries on the spirit and high standards Jack exhibited throughout his life.”

For his personal and professional contributions to the southeast and beyond, we’re proud to award the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to Mr. Ray Castro.

In the fall of 1999, the kink community in Charlotte, NC was offered in only a few ways. In the late summer of 1999, Mistrezz E sent out an email to create a group that offered parties and education.

A month later by-laws were created that still govern the group today. Pivotal members from a group called TALON drove a hour a day on work nights to help form this new group to meet the unmet needs of the area.

On Oct. 27, 1999 an interim board was formed. The interim board consisted of Mistrezz E, Michael, Beth, Erika and Gary.

The first official meeting was held on January 22, 2000 at a local hotel. The goal was and still is to provide a discrete, friendly, and safe environment for the education and support. The group was open to all people over 21, of all sexual orientations and kink interests, couples and singles and BDSM families. The group proudly identified as a non-profit pansexual BDSM group for the south central Piedmont area of North Carolina.

By the fall of 2000, this group out grew their play party venues of using someone’s home and began having play parties in Hotels. Crews would show up and breakdown the room furniture and set up play stations through a maze of adjoining rooms and suites. These parties had everything from DM’s, to buffet tables of food, and a lot of play. They began to bring in national presenters and truly provided the best education for their contributors possible and they never forgot to have fun.

In the last 7 years, they have held parties that had hundreds of people in attendance. Some of these parties were themed and elaborate productions from a Luau to a military camp.

This leader in the Southern Piedmont rewards their volunteers with volunteer of the month, quarter and year awards, they have a lending library to membership, and close to a dozen Special Interest Groups to make sure they are meeting the needs of their contributors.

A handful of people wanted to create a new group in the Charlotte area. Many kink-minded people have passed through their doors. Some have excelled and become a name in the kink community throughout the Southeast. Others have found their soul-mate, their owner, their submissive and life long friends. This group has 175 members and 566 members on their open list at present.

They have bridged a gap between Greenville, SC and Greensboro, NC bringing together local participants and neighboring cities. They have shared their resources and strengthened the Carolina’s and drawn participants from all the surrounding states.

They are dedicated to education and providing a safe place for like-minded people to meet, exchange ideas and possibly connect.

Before I go further, I must credit Krissie McGee for providing a wonderful history.

Tonight I have the privilege of awarding The Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award on behalf of SELF in acknowledgment of Charlotte Area Power Exchange’s (CAPEX) unfailing leadership and steadfast commitment to create opportunity through community support and service. Your dedication, determination, and efforts exemplify the best of who we are and will serve to inspire generations to come.

In the past year a southeastern club has been brought back from smoldering ashes by one lady’s determination. The club was barely making the rent month to month, attendance had fallen off greatly and there was no interest by new persons. One woman decided to change this.

In the past year the membership of the club has doubled. Munches are now held bi-monthly. Instead of 10 people at a party—they have 30 to 70. She has put herself out there for the next generation, encouraging them, educating them and providing an open door. Membership has increased not only from the local city but from surrounding areas. Her out reach has extended a warm welcome to all.

In the last year, she started an education fund that allows this club to bring in educators from coast to coast. From sending announcements, updating memberships, to FUNdraisers, and I do mean fun, to redecorating this clubs dungeon, this lady has put all of herself into providing more than was imagined.

I want to read directly from two of the nominations we received:

“With her leadership, the club has gone from one that almost ceased to exist to one that people are happy to call their second home. She has become a role model for many and she is someone that I admire greatly for all that she has done. To sum it all up, I firmly believe that if it were not for her selfless offering, her willingness to give of herself, and her grit and determination, there would no longer be a club or place in my city for people living this lifestyle to gather. “

and

“She’s a single mother working two jobs. Her commitment and selflessness has provided not only a great looking, fully
functional dungeon, but a safe haven where all feel welcomed and embraced. Our scene would not have survived without
her determined commitment. Now not only does it exist it thrives like never before. “

From an email our honoree wrote, “You are the future! You have enthusiasm, spirit, curiosity, & creativity!”

I couldn’t have said it better myself.

Tonight I have the privilege of awarding The Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award on behalf of SELF in acknowledgment of Aurora’s unfailing leadershipand steadfast commitment to create opportunity through community support and service. Your dedication, determination, and efforts exemplify the best of who we are and will serve to inspire generations to come.

Ten years ago the Atlanta Eagle held a 'Jail and Bail' fundraising event. One young Atlanta man was jailed and 'tortured' at this event- it was his first experience with SM. After this event, he began to attend classes given by Atlanta S/m Solidarity and found his way to Master Doug Harris for boy training.

To this day this gentleman gives his time to the community just as Jack Stice did. In the late 90's he served as Secretary of Knights Angels, he served on the Board of Southeast Olympus in 2003. He was Vice President for 2 years and is currently serving his 3rd term as Club President of Atlanta S/m Solidarity. His service is not limited to the gay leather community either. He was on the Board of Southeast Olympus in 2003 and is on the current committee as well. The CAP group is highly appreciative to have him as Treasurer and a Board member.

He is, in his own words, 'quite the leather social butterfly' and attends both the Gwinett and DeKalb Munches, Atlanta Regional Munch gathering and as many leather events locally, regionally and nationally as he can afford.

In fact, this will be his 9th year as a guest at SouthEast LeatherFest. I am very happy to present a Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to David Nelson for his ongoing and tireless service to the Atlanta community.

In 1997 a group of leatherfolk met in a basement bar in the southside Five Points area of Birmingham, Alabama. For the previous 2 years folks from the Birmingham area had been coming to Atlanta looking for the kinky kindred. They heard, on occasion, of kinky Alabamians from here and there. It was known they existed, but there were no channels of contact, no social networks, no Halloween bashes, Fetish Balls, Kinky Christmases...nothing in the heart of the state.

Twenty-four people walked through the doors that Saturday afternoon in 1997. They ate, drank, talked and made friends. Then, they made plans to meet again. But how would they find each other online, how would they know to meet again, what would the group be called? As one member stood there, looking around the tables where they now stood, he realized that all the chairs in which we'd been sitting were covered in burnt-red cherry leather. The group's name was found: The Red Chair.

After a year of meeting in local restaurants and bars the group found a private meeting place for educational opportunities. In 1999 a Leadership Team was created for the growing group.

In the year 2000 The Red Chair began to host Dungeon Parties along with regular educational presentations at local hotels. A private building was found in early 2001 and in a few short months a small crew of dedicated Red Chair members gutted the facility and renovated it into a 4000 square foot dungeon and meeting space. On April 7, 2001 the first educational presentation and dungeon party was held at the new building.

In August of 2005 the ownership of the building swapped hands and a sizable rent increase led to the demise of the dungeon. On November 5th of this past year The Red Chair closed it's door as a dungeon.

The Red Chair Remains as a strong viable organization even without a facility to call their own. As the oldest BDSM group in Alabama they continue with educational classes, munches and play parties at private locations. The group has strong ties with North Alabama Power Exchange, Central Alabama Power Exchange and many other groups in the southeast. The Red Chair is also a proud supporter of NCSF.

For dedication to the lifestyle and support of the community SouthEast LeatherFest is proud to present a Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award to The Red Chair.

2005

Viola Johnson
SC-LOCK

Below are the speeches read regarding each recipient.

Viola Johnson

Tonight it’s my absolute pleasure to give this award.  This goes to a particular individual who I love very much. It’s my absolute delight to present this award.  She is generous to a fault, she gives of herself unfailingly, shares who she is and she is there and she gets her hands dirty and does the work as she has done for us for years.  She’s an integral part of our history and offers us bridges that gap generations.  The Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award goes to Vi Johnson.

SC-LOCK

The group I have the pleasure to present this award to I think is such a perfect choice.  I cannot tell you how many times I hear “tell me about the old guard, what is it about?”  We’ve heard it ad infinitum.  Here’s the deal, there were many groups of people who once upon a time were kinky,  they wanted to know who they were playing with, they wanted to know who you were, and they wanted to know if they could trust you.  This group represents not merely the future but they have the threads of the past where people truly reached for one another, had a cohesive understanding, a common goal, and took the time to vet you. I have had the pleasure to be there and watch their evolution, I have seen them grow and become more.  I have seen them provide tremendous education for their membership and reach out to the southeast communities around them.  They’ve earned this award and I don’t say those words lightly.  The Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award goes to SC LOCK.

'00-'04 Recipients

We want to thank David Palm for sending us this picture in 2015.  His award reflects a year we were paying off old debts and his award was made. Thank you David for valuing the meaning and sharing this piece of history with us.

History of the award 

Over thirteen years ago, a passionate Atlanta leatherman brought forth the idea of creating a special gathering in the southeast. He envisioned a gathering of leather people of all orientations, genders and traditions. This event would give people the opportunity to come together to celebrate diversity, exchange ideas, listen, learn and share. He saw commonality where others saw divisive difference. Jack Stice was this man and his enthusiasm spread to others and the idea blossomed. As the 1995 International Master, Jack Stice and the specially formed Atlanta Leather Pride Committee created the first SouthEast LeatherFest.

In 1995, SouthEast LeatherFest, the first major leather event of its kind in Atlanta, became living proof that the leather communities of Atlanta had taken great strides in bridging the gap between different factions-- gay, lesbian, pansexual, bisexual, heterosexual and transsexual.

Jack Stice was a determined leader in the community, a devoted advocate of charitable concerns and the producer of the first SELF. He gave his heart to the new event just as he gave his all to everything else that was important to him and to the community. Jack Stice was fearless in his actions and words and dedicated to personal and community growth.

Jack was able to celebrate and enjoy the first and very successful SELF and then AIDS took him away. Before he died, Jack passed along the vision and asked for commitments from others to continue with SELF in the spirit in which it was created.

An active and devoted Executive Committee continued with SouthEast LeatherFest and the event grew. Jack's legacy and ideas are still a driving force at SELF. At our tenth anniversary, a hand-sewn quilt was presented in honor of Jack and is now part of of the AIDS QUILT.

In 1998, SELF Treasurer David Armstrong proposed that SELF establish an annual community service award for the southeast region. The Executive Committee unanimously agreed to honor Jack Stice and his dedication towards community service in the southeast by presenting this annual award in his name. In 2000, on the fifth anniversary of the event, the SELF Executive Committee introduced the newly created Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award™. This award formally recognizes individuals, clubs and businesses in the Southeast Region that exemplify the service to the community and dedication to charitable concerns for which Jack was so rightly known.

The above was written by Victoria G. in 2008.

This award was given at SELF from 2000 to 2008. Below is the text read by Catherine Gross when it was last given in 2008:

For the past eight years, SELF has given the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award. In 1998, SELF Treasurer David Armstrong proposed that SELF establish an annual community service award for the southeast region. The SELF board unanimously voted to create this award, and as a tribute to Jack Stice’s dedication to community service, named it in his honor. In 2000, David received the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award posthumously, when it was presented for the first time at SELF 5.  

Last year, just days before SELF, Jack’s former slave Tom Stice informed us that he was uncomfortable with SELF continuing our tradition of presenting our trademarked award. Given the ways in which Tom chose to express his displeasure, this February, SELF agreed to turn over our trademarked award to Tom though we still own the trademark. After this year, SELF has agreed that we will no longer present the Jack Stice Memorial Community Service Award named for the founder of our event.

This year we had 23 nominations for this award from all over the southeast. This year’s recipients will be the last who will join a long list of people, organizations, and businesses that have been recognized for their exemplary gifts to our various communities in the southeast.

Since we are ending what has been a long standing tradition at SELF, it is only fitting that the last Jack Stice Memorial Community Service awards are being given by two of the original SELF board members, Nickie S. and Ms. Victoria.