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Nov 2000 Nov 9, 2000 I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the SD Leather community. Last week I was bestowed the honor of Ms SDL 2000-2001. I competed with a talented woman, Naria lei Bullock Jordon. I applaud Naria as well for putting herself out there and stepping up to the plate. I know that it wasn't easy, believe me "I Know."" We faced a formidable panel of judges. A very special thanks goes out to all of our esteemed judges; Wolf - Our Head Judge, Crickett Watkins - Ms. SoCal Fantasy 1999, William Schindler - Mr. LA Leather 1999, Christine Baker - Ms. Calgary Leather 2000 and NLA-I Woman of the Year 1999-2000, Jo Blas – International Ms. Leather 2000, and Margi Duran - Active Member of the San Diego Leather Community. What an honor to have the top 3 IMsL Winners judging our contest. The interview, what an experience, I don't think there is anything harder that being evaluated by your peers. They drilled us early Saturday morning, which was quite a challenge without that first cup of coffee. I have often wondered the purpose of having the interview so early. Is it to catch us off guard or just to see if we are able to function at that time of the morning? I'd like to thank all of you for coming out and supporting the contest. Energy was running high Saturday night everyone flowed into the Hole for the contest. I think the hardest part of that night is the, "Hurry up and wait." At first when I stepped out on that stage to give me speech and my mind went blank, I wanted to turn around and walk off. Because of the feeling of support and knowing that you all are my friends and family, I was able to pull myself together and my speech came from my heart. The crowd was donned in fine leather and fetish gear and everyone looked hot. There were hot leathermen in chaps and vests, harnesses... fine butches in uniforms, leather pants and masters caps, and beautiful women in corsets. What a wonderfully diverse crowd. Knowing that representatives from just about every leather/fetish club her e in San Diego was incredible. I can honestly tell you all that I believe the shock has finally wore off. When they announced Naria as the 1st runner-up, I thought they had made a mistake. When they made the announcement for Ms. San Diego Leather 2000-2001 and it was me, I was just overwhelmed with feelings of honor, love, respect, and Oh My God, what just happened here. I think it took me three days to get rid of the deer in headlights look. As the newest representative in our community it is my intention to be visible and available to all leather people both experienced and novice. I believe that our previous women's title holders have done an excellent job in bridging the gap between the men’s and the women’s community which I plan to continue. I do plan on dedicating some extra time in bringing the women’s community closer together. We have had a couple of rough years. I would like to see us come together and have open discussions about what each one of can do to make it better. One way this year that I plan to step outside of our own community is to help provide education to the different public service leaders and Resource Centers that help victims of violent crimes. Once again, I would like to thank the community and the judges. Kim and Annie thank you for this wonderful opportunity. Finally, but definitely not last I would like to thank my sponsors; Randy Mangham, Jake Lee, Michelle Zornes, and Suzy Koenigs because without you none of this would have been possible. In Leather, Melanie A. Toews Ms. San Diego Leather 2000-2001 Back ~*~ Home |