International LeatherSIR / Leatherboy
Honoring the past, Playing in the present, Building the future

Mr. Leatherman Toronto 2007

Date:   Nov 29, 2006
Re:   Mr. Leatherman Toronto 2007 Competition Weekend
November 23-26 @ Toronto, Ontario, Canada
From:   International Community Bootblack 2006 Henry James

Bootblack Toronto 2006 boy alex dunlop and International Community Bootblack Henry James (photo: Dan Falkenham)

As I return home from my 3902 mile trek to Toronto, Canada, I am still buzzing with excitement. Everyday that I serve as an ambassador for bootblacking, I love it more. Too see such a diverse group of people meet in the spirit of brotherhood and boots is amazing, and it makes me so proud to be a member of the Leather community and to serve as one of it’s titleholders.

Mr. Leather Toronto 2007 (MLT) saw four amazing men and two awesome bootblacks compete for their titles. Congrats to Steve Martin, Mr. Leather Toronto 2007, and David Kraft, Mr. Leather Fellowship 2007, on a successful contest. Let me tell you that these two men looked wonderful in their leather “minimal” wear. Though I am really glad that was not a requirement for this bootblack during my last contest. <grin>


(L to R) International Mr. Bootblack 2006 Benjamin Palmer, Karen “Ultra” Crecelius and ICBB 2006 Henry James (photos: Dan Falkenham)

And the bootblacks, Eli and Gene spent three days competing for the Bootblack Toronto 2007 title. They polished every boot that came to them with heart and enthusiasm, and, with the judging very close, Eli became Bootblack Toronto 2007. Whether Eli attends IMSL or ICBB this year, watch out, because it’s going to be a good competition.

Special thanks to the judging staff of MLT for letting me help with the contest. I arrived planning to just be there, and the unexpected absence of a judge let me help out as tally master. It’s always a pleasure to assist, and if you ever need me again, just call.

To my fellow bootblacks and leather friends (some new this weekend), you rock! To spend time with you, to share meals with you, to talk shop, that is what I live for, and you make it better and better every time. I can’t put into words what this community means to me. Just so happy to be here with you all.


 

Henry James
International Community Bootblack 2006

 

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