History of New Mexico Leather
& Alternative Communities
Overview • Venues • Artisans • Groups • Events
History is a foundation that helps us approach the future with more understanding. Awareness of history helps us realize not just what came before us, but also understand how things have changed, are changing, what was attempted, successes, struggles, and the great time had by many in alternative lifestyle communities. It reminds us that time passes by quickly and to be sure to be kind as you travel through your journey through these alternative communities.
Groups
Our chosen family and clans create safe space for exploring our true selves in alternative lifestyle communities, providing harbor from oppressive normative culture, while we mentor and learn from each other, and find friends. Each of us usually forms connections with one or a small number of individuals; however, more formal groups that we create often provide additional ability to feel safe and make change in our community through a stronger voice, simply existing and being present or through more active means.​ New Mexico's Leather history has roots back to the motorcycle clubs that were established after WW2, in particular, influence from Los Angeles' Satyrs Motorcycle Club. Others arriving from across the world also contribute, mixing with the alternative lifestyle of locals. New Mexico has had a long-standing reputation of tolerance (in general) from the predominant cultures of various Indigenous, Spanish, and Anglo communities.
Dick Marleau, co-founder of Hijos del Sol and Motorcyclemen of NM, taken in California, before 1967. <e>
1978-1989+
HIJOS DEL SOL
Hijos del Sol, or "Children of the Sun," was an early men's-only motorcycle group in Albuquerque formed in July, 1978. They were a Levi's//leather club that focused on camping and club gatherings. <k>
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Hijos del Sol was originally set up by Dick Marleau who moved to Albuquerque after experience with California Motorcycle Clubs in Los Angeles and the leather community in Chicago. <e> Dick was not a member of the Satyrs but likely rode with them. Satyrs MC has no record of Dick as a past member. <a> While in Chicago, Marleau worked in furniture sales at the famous downtown Marshal Fields store (now Macys) and met Richard Van Steenburg, who would become a life-long friend and eventual executor of Marleau's estate in 1996. Marteau moved from Chicago to Albuquerque in 1972 with his lover, Mike Pierson. <e> ​Dick was an associate member <d> of Rocky Mountaineers Motorcycle Club, and attended their Golden Fleece Runs.
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Contacts shown in a printed ad were Tom Harris and Dick Marleau. showing establishment of Hijos del Sol in July 1978. They had no club nights but met at Foxes and Albuquerque Social Club. Hijos del Sol later formalized under Common Bond. <f> <h>
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​Other men involved include Pat Sanchez and Casey Newkirk. Hijos del Sol's operation overlapped with Motorcyclemen of New Mexico. <b>
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Hijos del Sol held their Balloon Run during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This Balloon Run occurred for many years.
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7-9 Oct 1982 - Balloon Run VI <b, c>
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1986 - Balloon Run IX
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Other references:
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Drummer Magazine, Club Listing, Issue #114, March 1988, concurrent listing of Hijos Del Sol with Motorcyclemen of New Mexico.
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Dick Marleau eventually moved from Hijos del Sol to Motorcyclemen of NM (MMNM), although Hijos del Sol continued to operate independently of MMNM. <e>
Hijos del Sol members wore white denim vests with their colors. A picture from MMNM event Poker Run 3, also known as April Fool Run 3, 1 April 1984 shows two Hijos del Sol members in vests.
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Two Hijos del Sol members in their white leather vests with colors. At MMNM Poker Run 3, also known as April Fool Run 3, 1 April 1984, Albuquerque Social Club. <j> From left: ?, Alan, ? (cowboy hat), Ron Boggs (president pin, glasses).
NMO, New Mexico Outdoors, was a reported spin-off from Hijos del Sol in the mid 1980s that accepted women and men. <h>
​​A reported spinoff of Hijos del Sol was New Mexico Outdoors (NMO), for men and women. <f> <h> This gay and lesbian social club was dedicated to the appreciation and enjoyment of the outdoors. Any gay or lesbian was welcome to participate in any of the NMO events, with no application required for the club and no membership fees. NMO that had a website, nmoutdoors.org, from 1999-2004, listing Fred Jerina as the NMO Facilitator, discussing pot lucks with attendance of 50 people. <g> In an interview, Fred said that he was a co-founder of NMO along with Neil Isbin in the late 1980s to early 1990s. He states the organization was never associated with Hijos del Sol, but started as a ski club, pot luck, and hiking group. NMO moved operations to the Meetup platform under the group "In, Out, & About; A New Mexico Gay Men's Social Group." NMO is not itself in bounds of this history, so will not be covered further.
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Sources: Leslie Anderson (interviews), Casey Newkirk (interview 14Jun24, +), Internet, Drummer Magazine Issue #114, <a> Email conversation with the Satyrs MC 21Oct24, <b> Club Scene #13, Club News p8, <c> Club Scene #14 Dec 1982/Jan 1983, <d> Rocky Mountaineers Motorcycle Club of Colorado, Golden Fleece Run 15 (1996) Run Book, <e> Richard Van Steenburg (interview 30Dec24), <f> alibi.com/feature/albuquerque-pride-time-line/, <g> nmoutdoors.org on web.archive.org. <h> Uncommon Knowledge: A History of Queer New Mexico, 1920s-1980s - Jordan Biro - 1Sep2015 - University of New Mexico - UNM Digital Repository - p153, <i> Interview Fred Jerina 4Jan25, <j> Dave Crawford (interview 5Jan25), <k> Casey Newkirk (conversations Jan2025).
Four Hijos del Sol members in their white leather vests with colors at MMNM Poker Run 3, also known as April Fool Run 3, 1 April 1984. <j> From left: Scott "Sadie" Thompson, Richard Saiser, Alan, Michael Kaplan (beard, glasses, looking down), David Koester (back to camera, ball cap), "the kid who moved to LA" (standing looking toward right), Ron Boggs (standing looking left). <k>
1981-1998
Motorcyclemen of New Mexico
The Motorcyclemen of New Mexico (MMNM or MNM), often called "M&Ms," were formed as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation by New Mexico residents at the Rocky Mountaineers Motorcycle Club’s (RMMC), at the 10th annual camp out in Colorado call the “Golden Fleece Run” (GFR), which happened for 40 years.
MMNM was registered with the New Mexico Secretary of State on 15 July 1981 by R. Gregg Watkins. Directors were Dave Bedford, Gregg Watkins, Dave Crawford. Owen, and Terry Robert. These New Mexico residents decided to start their own run while at GFR. Dick Marleau from Hijos del Sol MC was involved in founding MMNM, a somewhat informal gay men-only motorcycle club. Other names included Bill Rhetta, partners Bill Meeks (DoD) and Bill Curr (El Paso Public Schools), Casey NewKirk, Pat Sanchez, Walt Lang (Pat's partner for a time), and Dennis Dunnum, Jojo Pineau (associate), Bob Rakoczy (associate), Dominik Zurlo. Wes (Lockwood) Graywolf, a photographer and artist used to vend at MMNM events and produced many of the posters and promotional items for MMNM. A female full member was part of the club, Kathy, a lesbian from Santa Fe. <d> They had associates including Leslie Anderson and Steve Wearden.
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Dave Crawford joined MMNM about six months after it started organizing. Raised in Farmington, NM, and having a profession of teaching, special education, he purchased a 755 BMW there and learning about MMNM from the person who sold him his bike. He is the longest running member of MMNM, having been there from near its inception, being one of its organizing directors in 1981, and holding various offices from 1986 through 1995 (see officer plates below). The club created "Member Emeritus" status for Dave when his bad back and other conditions made it difficult for him to ride. <d>
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The primary hangout location of MMNM was Social Club, which at the time was mostly a men's bar. They hung their colors in the back bar of Social Club. <a> Dennis Dunnam joined MMNM in the early 90s, being Quartermaster in 1993, Secretary in 1994, VP in 1996, which transitioned to President in that year. He was publicist in 1997. In 1984 MMNM had 12 members. Some members of MMNM inspired artist Delmas Howe and were used in his "Stations" series of paintings. Membership was mandated to be 75 percent owning a motorcycle. Associates could live further away from Albuquerque. RMMC and MMNM cross-attended each others events and runs.
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MMNM started operations after Hijos del Sol, but operated concurrently together for years. <a> They had a Motorcyclemen of New Mexico Newsletter that highlighted their members lives, participation in runs, and listed officers, full members, and associates.
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Motorcyclemen of New Mexico Newsletter, banner from Mar-Jun 1989 issue.​
"At the MNM Installation of Officers for 1990, standing: Frank, Richard (Saiser), Walt, Pat, and Paul. Unable to stand: Larry, Dick (Marleau), and Bill. We chose not to print the photo of the entire group because the flash made everybody look like zombies. (at least, we're pretty sure it was the flash)." From MMNM Newsletter, Issue Number 29, Dec-Mar 1990.​
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​Pat Sanchez, Belen, NM., was the Rocky Mountain Regional Award 1994 winner from TLJ, Mr. Southwest Drummer 1991 and multi-office holder for the Motorcyclemen of New Mexico. Pat produced the NM Drummer contest eventually after his win. Pat was also an associate member <b> 1993-1998 of Rocky Mountaineers Motorcycle Club. He is noted as passing away in memorial in the <c> RMMC Golden Fleece Run XXVI (1998) run book.
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Club Scene #10 p8, 1983:
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Officers for 1983: President - Les C, VP - Ben P, Secretary - Cameron R, Treasurer - Bill R, Road Capitan - Dave C., Corresponding Secretary Richard S, Member-at-Large, Bob M.
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Golden Fleece XII, Drummer Magazine Issue #67 - August 1983:
"...At 5 o'clock, the Motorcyclemen of New Mexico hosted their Second Anniversary party,
complete with banners, balloons, Mariachi music, and a pinata sort of shaped like a giant M&M candy. This lively fiesta got everybody into a real good mood for the steak dinner which followed immediately, and that in tum primed us for the show put on by the Rockymountaineers. ..."
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Drummer Magazine, Issue #110 - November 1987: Motorcyclemen of New Mexico listed in club listing.
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MMNM's hosted run was "Hot Air" which was held at the same time of the year as the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, running from 1984 through 1997. See the EVENTS page for more information on this bike run. Another usual run by MMNM was to the Trinity Site on White Sands Missile range, east of San Antonio, NM, which occurred at the April date for the open visits.
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Motorcyclemen of NM in Cuffs. From Left: Bob (back turned), Unknown (bottle in hand), Dave Bedford (back, white t-whirt), Wes (Lockwood) Greywolf, Scott (far right). From Leslie Anderson.
Motorcyclemen of NM in Cuffs. Bob and Glen. From Leslie Anderson.
Patch, Vest, Dennis Dunnam, Motorcyclemen of New Mexico.
Wes Greywolf and Dave Bedford in Cuffs. Picture from Leslie Anderson.
MMNM produced the New Mexico Drummer contest.
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Leslie Anderson was an associate of MMNM and the first women (at the time) member, voted in with almost unanimous approval (one dissent). This was associated with their run and eventual title win as American Leatherwoman. Associate memberships were provided to those that had no motorcycle or would be from out of state. MMNM started loosing interest and cohesion about 1997. Some members moved to Sandia Leathermen as an organization that did not require motorcycles. Bars were becoming more inclusive of a broader set of people.
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Leslie Anderson recalls a conversation with Pat Sanchez at The Ranch, sitting in the dual bootblack stand (now at Sidewinders). They talked about women coming up in the community and Pat thought that there would be a set of "Ms." titles, which came to be true. MMNM would go on rides to Palm Springs (13-15 September 1996) and day rides to Santa Fe (19 August 1995).
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Casey Newkirk, recalls his entry into MMNM. Casey came from Dallas and involvement there in the Dallas Motorcycle Club, forming the Branding Iron Club - a 501(c)(3), and setting up the Silver Spurs in the early 1970s. He came to Albuquerque after a life-changing event occurred. In 1988, after a long time helping MMNM as a non-member, at the insistence of Bill Rhetta and unanimous support of other members, he signed up. He recalls leaving the club about 1993 when he felt leadership emphasis turned toward sex and fisting. Casey preferred the prior focus on riding bikes and fundraising for charity.
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"Zia Brigade" was a uniform club activity within MMNM formed by member Richard Saizer and his partner Bill Reiust, who produced pins and patches for this focus group. <d> Their motto "Crescit Eundo" is Latin for "It grows as it goes." ​
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MMNM disbanded in the late 1990s as energy decreased and the bars were more welcoming of a broader set of people. For instance, Albuquerque Mining Company, with a sign "999", and called "The Nines," had a motorcycle hanging from the ceiling and a leather bar off to the side. The Social Club's back area was often converted into a large play space. The loss of Pat Sanchez in 1995 and aging of other active members also contributed to loss of energy for the group.
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Events for which we have records:
4 Jul 1982 - GFR XI, Colorado
20 Dec 1982 - MMNM Xmas Party, Albuquerque
15 Jan 1983 - Installation, Albuquerque
Aug 1983 - 2nd Anniversary party at GFR 7
1 Apr 1984 - April Fool Run 3, Poker Run 3
4-8 Jul 1984 - GFR 13
16 Dec 1984 - MMNM Xmas Party, Albuquerque
19 Apr 1985 - Albuquerque
8 Aug 1985 - NM Run, Out of town
16-18 Aug 1985 - NM Run, Jemez Falls Campground
12 Oct 1985 - Hot Air 2
31 Oct 1985 - Party, Albuquerque Social Club
15 Dec 1985 - MMNM Xmas Party, Albuquerque
15 Feb 1986 - Valentines Party, Albuquerque
1 May 1986 - MMNM Night at Albuquerque Social Club
14 Jun 1986 - Red Canyon Run 2
10-12 Oct 1986 - Hot Air 3
15-17 Apr 1988 - Carlsbad Run
15 May 1988 - Poker Run 6
11-14 Oct 1991 - Hot Air '91
12 Oct 1991 - Hot Air Run Show
1993 - Ride back to the Gay '90s.
9 Oct 1993 - Hot Air Run Show, Knights in Black Leather, Albuquerque Social Club​
16 Jan 1994 - Installation, Albuquerque
26-29 July 1995 - Memorial, Catholic Mass for Pat Sanchez
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Events for which we have no date:
? - Grand Canyon Run
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Sources: Leslie Anderson (interviews), Casey Newkirk (interviews 14Jun24, +conversations), LA&M, Scott White (President of RMMC for 6 years), Dennis Dunnam (interview 12Jun24), New Mexico Secretary of State business search, theleatherjournal.com/news/author/802-daverhodes, Drummer Magazine Issue #67, #110, #187, #198, <a> Club Scene #13, Club News p8, <b> Golden Fleece Run Book XXI (1993), Rocky Mountaineers Motorcycle Club (Silver Anniversary), <c> Golden Fleece Run Book XXVI (1998), Rocky Mountaineers Motorcycle Club, <d> David Crawford (interview 5Jan24).
1984-
New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association (NMGRA)
Without a doubt, cowboys are as important to the alternative lifestyle in New Mexico as the Leathermen coming home to the USA from WW2. Cowboys, cowgirls, and cowhands wear leather, and bring the Levi's to "Leather & Levi's." New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association (NMGRA) was established in 1984 to cultivate the Western lifestyle within the LGBTQ+ community. NMGRA was formed as a domestic nonprofit corporation in New Mexico starting in 2021 by Brian Helander. Directors were Michael Kaplan, Juan Mares, and Jeff Lowe. NMGRA operates the Zia Regional Rodeo since 1991 and have hosted World Gay Rodeo Finals in 1996, 2000, 2009, and 2017. The Rodeo was held originally in Albuquerque and later moved to Santa Fe. They also host a royalty contest since 1990.
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Drummer Magazine, Leather Bulletin Board, Issue #108, September 1987.
"Bull Riding and Goat Dressing! The International Gay Rodeo Association, a union of the state gay rodeo associations in Ari￾zona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, has sanctioned the Bay Area Chapter of the Golden State Gay Rodeo Association to sponsor the first Annual International Gay Finals Rodeo on Sept. 18 to 20, 1987. This is the first time the cowboys and cowgirls who scored the best in five regional gay rodeos will get a chance to compete for top honors at a finals rodeo. ..."
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Sandia Leathermen supported NMGRA, at times being security for the NMGRA events. ​
Sandia Leathr at NMGRA. From Leslie Anderson.
​​​Sources: nmgra.org, nmgra.org on web.archive.org (2014-), nmgra.com on web.archive.org (2000-2014), Leslie Anderson (interviews), New Mexico Secretary of State business search, one.usc.edu archives, Drummer Magazine Issue #108, gayrodeohistory.org, gayrodeohistory.org/1991/ProgramNmgra.htm.
1986(-)-1993+
Hearts of the West Motorcycle Club
Santa Fe was the home of Hearts of the West Motorcycle Club that seems established in 1986 or before. It was listed in The Leather Journal concurrently with Hijos del Sol and Motorcyclemen of New Mexico at a PO Box in Santa Fe 87504.
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Sources: The Leather Journal issue#2 Aug-Oct 1987.
1986-
People Exchanging Power (PEP)
Nancy Ava Miller, M.Ed.m, CHt, founded People Exchanging Power (PEP) on Oct 16, 1986, beginning with several successful S&M support groups across the USA over several years.
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PEP is both a Group and a Venue. See the Venues Section of this website for more information about PEP. The venue is a physical space and business.
There were PEP groups formed across the USA with Albuquerque being the the central founding chapter. Other groups were in Buffalo, Denver, Houston, Nashville, Ohio, Oklahoma, Phoenix, St. Louis, and Washington D.C. The national headquarters in Albuquerque held public conferences, parties, seminars in Albuquerque and other cities. The PEP group in Albuquerque merged into the AEL group.
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The business was sold to Sera Miles in 2016, with the current website listing services of "Phone Sex • Sexting • Cam • Erotic Emailing" and being established in 1990. The URL is peplove.com.
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Sources: Nancy Ava Miller (interviews), Sara Miles (interview 19May24), peplove.com/grouplist.htm on web.archive,org (1998-).
Mama's Family in Albuquerque during a visit by Mama in 2017, Sidewinders Ranch.
Mama's Family with some Albuquerque members, Folsom Street Fair, 2017, outside Powerhouse.
1988-2024
Mama's Family
Mama's Family is a world-wide honorary family for those that contribute to their leather communities. Many have had the experience of being "Mama's next victim" when they were observed strongly contributing and picked by Mama or brought to her attention. Mama is Sandy Reinhardt. The first to call her "Mama" was a popular drag persona "Ernestine." Robert Sastini and Mama were in the Phoenix, (San Francisco's Castro District), and Ernestine commented something to the affect of "you must be my "Mama." There in that bar, a family tradition would be born that neither knew would flourish into the "Mama's Family" that now exists. Mama's Family members have shown up at leather event gatherings across the world, and contributed to fundraising efforts. Mama came to New Mexico multiple times, attending events at the invitation of local leather groups. In 2021, a group of leathermen in Ft Lauderdale, FL, established "Mama's Helping Hands Foundation, Inc." there as a charitable effort to provide continuity to the work of Mama's family.
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All family names start with "Mama's" followed by something unique. Some of Mama's New Mexico Members are: alpha boy Rex (Rex Swanda), Alpha Tech (Bear Mike), boot brat (boi Dani), Corazon Jinx (Jinx the Lynx), Daboi (Jayson DaBoi Johnson), Desert Daddy (Mauro Walden-Montoya), Desert Divo (Renato Estacio0-Burdick), Drink Slinger (Michael Estacio-Burdick), Easy Rider, First Hand (Leslie Anderson), gentleman pig slave (slave Dennis), Hot Tamale (Leo Suarez), HugeMuscleGeek (John Skelton), Kinky Martian (Lash Onyx), Madame BattleAxe (Gwen), Moonlight (Diane Bogan), Mr Rio Grand (Ruben Gallegos), MunchKat (Kathryn Alexander), Naked Knitter (Adrian Thompson), Optimus or Easy Rider (Tyler McCormick), Prince Julian (Julian Wolf), Pup Monkey (Andrew Walden-Montoya), Strong Black Bull (Magnum Masters), Sweet Cubby Bear (Chris Jones), Tattoedbassoonist (Brian Tuffnell), and Whip Daddy (Stan Alexander).
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In 2024, Mama and her biological family decided that Mama could no longer travel and manage the family, and moved to close the family roster.
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Source: Multiple Mama's Family, Sandy Reinhardt (Mama) (discussions), mamas-family.org, mamas-family.org/boys_girls.html, CandiAnne (Mama's CandiAnne, Mama's Crafty One) email 3Jun24.
1989-2000
Sandia Lethermen
1995-2000
Sandia Leatherwomen
Sandia Leathermen was a extremely successful organization recognized across the USA leather community. It is likely the best, most active, most charitable, leather organization that has existed because of its members and timing in history. They held many events in New Mexico, including bar socials, education, and play parties. This club started for various reasons including to establish a leather club that didn't require a motorcycle, establish a group at The Ranch (Sidewinders), bring inclusion to women. Not many women, leatherdykes, at the time went to Social Club, but they came to The Ranch. This club coexisted with the motorcycle and other clubs and they had different focus. Don, the owner of The Ranch at the time, and his lover were part of starting this organization. Dennis Dunnam was on the sidelines helping. Another aspect for the creation of this club were the associate members of Motorcyclemen of New Mexico (MMNM), who did not own bikes. They wanted another organization in which they could more fully participate. Casey Newkirk, of NMMM recalls there were some initial hard feelings by some members of MMNM on establishment of Sandia Leathermen; however, Casey put a positive spin on it for them that they needed their own group and the two groups could collaborate. Their first club listing in Drummer Magazine was Issue 149, May 1991.
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Sandia Leather established their website on 1 February 1999 at 1wyrld.net/sandialeather, <a> which was unfortunately not captured by the Wayback Machine.
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A sister club, to Sandia Leathermen, Sandia Leatherwomen, was established in 1995. Far ahead of its time, these two clubs were never divided; they shared the same bank account and board. They had planned to become simply "Sandia Leather" in the future, which was not implemented. When Steve Wearden became a member, he brought in Leslie Anderson, Diva Marie, and Lady Willow. Leslie became treasurer the first year they were a member. The first female president of Sandia Leather was Diva Marie, 1997 Ms. New Mexico Leather. Other members: Domnick Zurlo.
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This group produced multiple events at different times of the year. Mr. and Ms. New Mexico Leather was their primary contests produced titles throughout their existence. They also produced Mr and Ms NM Leatherfest, which was an less-formal warm-up event for people that that might eventually enter Mr/Ms. New Mexico Leather. It was only held a few years, occurring in October as a response to the MMNM Hot Air event around Albuquerque's Balloon Fiesta. Their Mr and Ms NM Fantasy title production lasted about three year, intended to feed into a national competition, brining an international title back to Albuquerque in 1996. See the EVENTS page for more detail. This organization won the 1997 Pantheon "Large Club of the Year" from The Leather Journal.
Sandia Leather disbanded in April 2000. Around this time only the core individuals were doing all the work and they felt they had reached the pinnacle of the organization and didn't have more to contribute. Other chaos and conflicts contributed. Their remaining funds were distributed to local charities and The Leather Archives & Museum in Chicago.
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Sources: Leslie Anderson (interviews), Dennis Dunnam (interview 12Jun24, +), Casey Newkirk (14Jun24), Sky Fiske (interview 1Sep2024), NM Secretary of State Trademark Search, Internet resources, Drummer Magazine Issue #149 May 1991, Fetlife, nmol.com/users/diva/calendar.htm on web.archive.net for 1Sep2000 <a>.
1991-
Alternative Erotic Lifestyles (AEL)
Alternative Erotic Lifestyles (AEL) is a pansexual organization catering to those interested in exploring alternative forms of erotic expression, including BDSM. They are open to the heterosexual, gay/lesbian, bi-sexual, transsexual, etc. A This group was started in 1991 by community members including Diva Marie, jenny, and Melissa, "born in Diva's livingroom." <a> Qaz and his girlfriend were also around at the time. <a> After a dormant period, in about 1997 Stan and kathryn were asked to help run AEL by Bob and Diva, and get events started. Bob disappeared shortly thereafter. Diva had to move to Colorado about 2004. For a long period there were only play parties, no munch. The munch was restarted as the Power Munch. In the yearly years, AEL had a phone line on an answering machine that allowed a message to be heard and could record caller's messages. This was transferred by jenny to Stan and kathryn. AEL was nominated for the prestigious PANTHEON OF LEATHER COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD for Small Club of the Year for 2003.
AEL now holds several events each month, including a PowerMunch and a meeting or party. They also offer various educational opportunities and play parties throughout the year.
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Sources: AEL, community members, mybdsm.com/salutes/aelifestyles (2003-2011), aelifestyles.mybdsm.com on web.archive.org, Kathryn Alexander (interview 30Aug2024), <a> Diva Marie (interview 22Sep24).
1992-
Bears of Mañana
Bears of Mañana is a club for gay men self-identifying as Bears and their admirers, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It was started by Dominick Zurlo and his partner at the time, David Guiney. It was formed in November 1992 after Dominick and others wanted to bring a bear community to Albuquerque after experiences in Phoenix. In attempting to pick a name, everyone was tired and someone said "We'll work on it Mañana." With that, the name was established in 1993.
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This is a dues-free club and they have no by-laws, leadership structure, or titles. The club was started to provide a place for bears from all over New Mexico to gather. Although the club is based in Albuquerque, they have get togethers statewide, from White Sands to the Gila Wilderness to the Santa Fe National Forest. Postcards were originally used to send notices about meetings. ​The held many of their meetings at The Ranch. They organized the American Bear Awakening (ABA) event in cooperation with Sandia Bears, a group that was a 2007 offshoot of Bears of Mañana. ​In 1998 the members were Bill, Bruce, Dennis, Jeff, Keith, Kelly, Mark & Bill, Rand Lee, Al, Ranger Dan, and mark Douglas.
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Sources: Dominick Zurlo (interview 17Jul24), bearsofmanana.com on web.archive.org (no content found), americanbearawakening.com on web.archive.org (2007-2009), www.thuntek.net/~kbear/bom/bom.htm on web.archive.org (1998-2001), D Tony Carson (interviews), Facebook.
Sirens Motorcycle Club
1994?-2001?
Siren's Motorcycle Club was a lesbian biker club that organized various runs within Albuquerque and around New Mexico. Their primary gathering location was RT66 Diner on Central near I25. Runs included going to Coronado Ruins, Madrid, Paliza Campground, Pecos Wilderness, and Roosevelt Park. Activities included leading the Albuquerque Pride Parade, dances, AIDS Quilt activity. Their primary event and run was Summer Solstice where events included camping, entertainment, volleyball, picnicking, belly dancing, workshops, fishing, massage, magic, hiking, mime, and ritual. Their Albuquerque business partners were Full Circle Books (2205 Silver SE) and Sisters and Brothers Bookstore (4011 Silver SE). In Santa Fe, they worked with Blue Moon Books (329 Garfield) and She said,"..." Books (De Vargas Mall). Siren's patch was designed by Sandy Pierson. Sirens provided security at NM Leather contest 1996 <a>.
Maria Bautista was the leader of the Sirens. Maria passed away in late summer 2022.
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The Sirens MC had sister clubs in Australia, New York, Atlanta and Michigan.
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The Sirens hosted a gallery on their website, stating "This gallery is about women and their motorcycles. No biker-babes here, just gorgeous, strong, sensual women."
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Summer Solstice Run
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1994
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1995
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1996
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1997
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1998 - Jemez Mountains
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1999 - June 18th - 20th -
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2000 - June 17th - Rancho de las Golondrinas
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Source: sirens.org web.archive.org (1998-2001) <a>, Dr PJ Sedillo (interview 20Sep2024+), facebook.com/maria.bautista.5099, <a> NM Leather Event Book 1996 (NM On Fire), staff listing.
Maria Bautista, leader, Sirens Motorcycle Club, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Multiple pictures of The Sirens outside of Route 66 Diner, Albuquerque, New Mexico. <a>
1995-1996
New Mexico NEWSLEATHER
New Mexico NEWSLEATHER was a short-lived newsletter of five issues published in Albuquerque by Diva Marie and Leslie Anderson. It was driven by the great energy and success of Diva Marie and Leslie and intended to be published every two month, starting in September 1995 with the final volume dated May 1996. Diva made photocopies to distribute. It was short lived because the Internet was becoming a convenient place to publish news rather than in print. Leslie and Diva were very busy at this time and couldn't easily continue the effort. Leslie won the 1996 Ms. NM Leather title and became quite busy. Contributors over time included Casey Newkirk, C.J. Diamond, Steve Weardon, Jeff Tucker (IML), Lee Lambert, Cindy Bookout, James Peters, Eric Senff, Janet Ryan, and Viola Johnson.
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Click the issue list below or issue cover image to open a PDF of the issue.
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Sources: Diva Marie (interview 22Sep24), New Mexico NEWSLEATHER Issues 1-5 from LA&M Archives.
1992-2005
The Adult Playpen
The Adult Playpen started out as an online Bulletin Board System (BBS) that transitioned to a website. Operated by Qaz, a Wiccan, the site had information on "Leather, S&M, Fetishes, Transvestites, Transsexuals, Gay, Latex, and Swinging." It was aligned with AEL (Alternative Erotic Lifestyles) group in Albuquerque. Qaz was 27 years old in 1999. The BBS apparently started about 1991 or 1992. It was advertised in AEL's newsletter in 1992. <a> Later it transitioned to a website in 2000. Qaz lived in Albuquerque working at Voicestream when he started this, eventually moving to the Seattle area then Las Vegas, Nevada. He intended to set up a swinger club there. While in Albuquerque, Qaz, participated in establishing AEL With Diva Marie.
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Sources: theadultplaypen.com on web.archive.org (1999-2005), Diva Marie (interview 22Sep24), <a> AEL Newsletter, Vol 1, Issue 2, 22Aug1992.
1999-2000
West Women's Group,
WEST (Women Exploring SM Themes)
For a while called "Leather New Mexico Women's Discussion Group" the West Women's Group obtained a name in 2000, as a Women Exploring SM Themes - Discussion Group. It was created and organized by Diva Marie to encourage all women with SM, B&D, or fetish interests to come meet and socialize with like-minded women. A list of contact information for local, national, and international leather groups and events is made available to attendees. At this time Diva Marie was seeking to help women understand and normalize sadomasochist behavior. Their website stated, "Have you or your lover ever..... .....been tied up? .....scratched your nails down the other's back during an orgasm? .....used an ice cube or hot wax? .....bitten and nibbled? ....dressed up in sexy lingerie? .....pinched and played with nipples? .....used a dildo or other sex toy? If you've answered yes to any of these, you've already explored some facets of SM behavior." The group published an "SM AND ABUSE POLICY STATEMENT" that explained the Difference between S/M and abuse. This group only existed from fall 1999 until Spring 2000 due to a suitable place to meet and later difficulties in Diva's life at the time.
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Diva Marie was a professional dominatrix in Albuquerque starting about 1993 that explored BDSM since the late 1980s, a founding member of Alternative Erotic Lifestyles (AEL), an author who had an article "SM as Philosophy" published in Some Women, edited by Laura Antoniou (Masquerade Books, 1994) and story called "Simple Gifts" published in the Herotica 6, edited by Marcy Sheiner (Down There Press, 1999). Diva Mari was Ms. New Mexico Leather 1997 and runner-up to International Ms. Leather 1997.
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Sources: nmol.com/users/diva/calendar.htm on web.archive.net (1999-2000), www.nmol.com/users/diva/DM.htm on web.archive.net (1999-2000), 209.211.36.9/users/diva/ on web.archive.net (2001), Diva Marie (interview 22Sep24).
Diva Marie, 1997
1998-2005
BDSM New Mexico
BDSM New Mexico (more later) was an Internet Relay Chat (IRC) discussion group for discussions about the BDSM lifestyle. IRC is an early text-based chat system for instant messaging that allows group communication. Moonvine and their dominant Barddas, from Clovis, NM maintained the chat channel and the webpage. They had an objective of starting a munch group in the Clovis area. This IRC seemed to have little forum traffic, with a little only in 1989-1999, but had other reference materials.
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Source: come.to/bdsmnewmexico on web.archive.net (1999-2005).
2000-2001
G-PEG (Grant Co. (New Mexico) Power Exchange Group)
G-PEG (Grant Co. (New Mexico) Power Exchange Group) was a short-lived D/s social group based in Silver City, New Mexico, organized by Tom Newman. It served both dominants and submissives that lived in SW New Mexico by helping those new to the community, resisting discrimination, and promoting a sense of community. It's mission as a pan-sexual organization was to hold monthly munches, discussion and support groups. Tom Newman moved to Tucson, AZ and controlled the domain powerandlove.com.
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Source: powerandlove.com/power/gpeg/ on web.archive.net (2000), powerandlove.com on web.archive.net (1999-2017).
2001-2002
Four Corners Power Exchange & Erotic Role-play (FCPEER)
Four Corners Power Exchange & Erotic Role-play (FCPEER) is a pansexual organization catering to those interested in alternative lifestyles including Poly (swinging), exploring alternative forms of erotic expression, including BDSM. The term pansexual means that we accept people with any form of sexual preference. They welcome heterosexual, gay/lesbian, bi-sexual, transsexual, etc. Their homstead website has been static since 2001-2002 schedule.
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Source: fourcornerspeer.homestead.com on web.archive.net (2002-2011 - static, unmaintained).
2002-
NM The Next Generation Albuquerque (NM:TNG)
New Mexico The Next Generation Albuquerque (NM TNG ABQ) has been in the Albuquerque area for decades. TNG is a purposefully transient in membership as a BDSM organization because it is for those 18-36 years of age. Original leadership in New Mexico included Julian Wolf and Jesse who established NM:TNG in 2002. From NM:TNG's website they list the following history. November 2002: established. 2004: Helped produced the the first of many Rio Grande Leather weekends. 2005: Assist with first of many NMLL Spring Pandemonium events, Sponsor ABQ Pride, Offer trainings, Hanky Code Parties. 2008: Second Rio Grande Leather titleholder from TNG, sixth anniversary with over 100 members. NM:TNG transitioned online from freewebs.com to nmtng.org in 2010. NM:TNG held meetings, classes, play parties, and other events. Others involved in leadership include Lady Heather, Jenny, Hannah, crrreature, and Jenny Rice. Other members include Mel-Doll, Saint, Jeremy (Morphius Bastet), Jermey AKA "The Ogre", Sara, and Hannah. A more recent president in 2020s is boy Christian.
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Sources: Fetlife, Facebook, NM:TNG Members, nmtng.org on web.archive.org (2009-2013), freewebs.com/nmtng/ on web.archive.org (2005-2011).​​
2002-2010
New Mexico Leather Wolves
New Mexico Leather Wolves (NMLW) arose in June 2002 from Albuquerque’s existing leather community and focuses on promoting hardcore play among men. It had three co-founders, Wes Grey Wolf, scott smith, and Ruben Gallegos. It formalized into a Leathermen's Fraternity in August of 2005. It started out with a delcaration of no formal structure but transitioned to a formal leathermen organization with bylaws and officers. They held many regular bar socials and events including Mr. Rio Grande Leather. They named the back bar of Sidewinders Ranch "Wolfpack Bar" where they held events including Night School and their Bar Night. Names involved include Randy Coburn, Steve Weardon, Tyler McCormick, Craig D., Ruben G. , Rex, Major, Mauro, Eldest Saint. The earliest web capture from April 2003 stated "LW's Virtual Den: Networking New Mexico for consensual male to male radical sexual expression." In 2005-2006 NMLW established their own website
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In 2005 and before: No leadership structure. In 2006-2007: President: Ruben Gallegos, Vice President: tyler mccormick, Secretary:Major, Treasurer: bruce ellison, Members' Whip:Michael Coburn. In 2008-2010: President: Craig Dill, Vice President: Wes (Lockwood) Greywolf, Secretary: Nate Brown, Treasurer: bruce howard, Members' Whip: Steve Wearden.
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There was a strong disagreement around a variety show structure (fixed timing versus best-we-can). This disagreement and lack of interest in a bylaw-driven organization lead to the departure of a dozen or so members that started Albuquerque Leather Daddys. Remaining active NMLW members included Craig Dill, Steve Wearden, Tyler McCormick, and Eldest Saint. NMLW continued, but eventually the amount of help and participation lead to the NMLW shutting down in 2010. The web domain was lost shortly after this time.
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Additional History Detail:
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Sniffin' Around the Edges by scott wolfson, 18Apr2003.
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Networking New Mexico for consensual male to male radical sexual expression, 18Apr2003.
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Pack Mentality - Genesis, 4Apr2004.
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Sources: Members, Tyler McCormick (interviews), Craig Dill (interview 25Aug2024), Eldest Saint (textual intervews May2024), leatherwolves.org (2003-2011) and hometown.aol.com/leatherwolves/ (2003-2007) on web.archive.org.
2004-?
New Mexico Gay Pumpers (NMGP)
New Mexico Gay Pumpers, a "Vacuum Pumping Club in the Land of Enchantment," was a club is for gay male adults, 18 and over, into the art of vacuum pumping. It was also a place to discuss related topics, share information, and meet other pumpers. Beginning in June 2004 the club held monthly group pumping sessions on the 3rd Friday of each month from 10:00 PM – 12:00 AM at Pride Gym. Pumpers from outside New Mexico visiting Albuquerque and inexperienced pumpers were welcome. Founder of this organization was Randy aka PozLeather. Other members included BEEFYPUMPER, Big Dick Danny, dnvrFFee, and David. This group appears to be short-lived from Internet Archive data.
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Source: nmgaypumpers.queernm.net on web.archive.net (26Jul2004).
2004-?
Sandia Women's Dinner
The Sandia Women's Dinner was a monthly, public dinner/discussion group where women could meet to ask questions and discuss topics like sexuality, alternative sexuality, polyamory, "kink," BDSM,etc. -- in an environment that's safe. Or simply meet, have a little dinner, spend some quality time among like-minded women and have a good conversation. The Women's Dinner was open to all biological women, those who live their lives 24/7 as women, and women who are in or who are contemplating gender transition. Straight, Lesbian, Bi, curious, celibate, and anything in between - all orientations were welcome. They held their events first Thursday of the month at The Cafe Next Door, 4013 Silver Ave SE. They also cooperated in community events such as Desert Pandemonium. These events were organized by Lori Ellison and her partner Jamie at times.
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Sources: hometown.aol.com/sandiawomensdnr/ on web.archive.org (2004), cafenextdoor.com/events/swg.html (2004) on web.archive.org, links from Leather Wolves website on web.archive.org, Amber Garland (interview 24Dec24).
2004-2014-
Leather Order of Honor and Service
Leather Life Events
Leather Order of Honor and Service​ is an family-style association of those who contribute to the community that was started by Amber Garland as a means to recognize and promote the values of Honor, Honesty, Love, and Service in the community. Amber would recognize those in the community that provided such service by presenting them a patch. She would also present them with several extra patches, empowering them to distribute and honor others in the community that they thought deserved such recognition. This is similar to Mama's Family recognition where existing family members nominate others to join the family. Those in this order include Stan Alexander, Kathryn Alexander, Leslie Anderson, Mauro Walden-Montoya, Ruben Gallegos, Rex Swanda, and Diane Wolf.
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Amber Garland came out as a Leatherdyke in 1973, coming to Albuquerque in 1975 when the community was dominated by men. She explored the womyn's community on womyn's land and play parties in the early 1970's to 1980's, She founded a small group, Leather Sister, with no rules or officers. Her initial experience was parting in life and play. Via a small group of leatherdykes this evolved in the early 1980s to initial concepts of integrity of play in the community and eventually stronger concepts of safety and consent. She had influence from the Leather community in Seattle for about 12 years in 1991 including BDSM in dungeons, shared play spaces including learning from Alina Gabash. Returning to Albuquerque in 2002, she found a pansexual community, and that leatherdyke community had diminished. While Amber never joined any formal Leather or BDSM organizations in New Mexico, she would present and engage those that existed, such as AEL, NMLL, MaST, Black Leather Weekend, and Rio Grade Leather. Topics included cutting. She also presented at the Wiked Womyn Conference in October 2003.
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Amber organized "Leather Life" events in Albuquerque, weekend gatherings, discussions, and workshops about the Leather lifestyle. These were held a couple times a year from about 2004 until about 2014. Attendees came from the USA and Canada with attendance ranging from 30 to 10 participants over the years.
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Amber was presented with a "Rio Grand Leather Community Service Award" in 2008 by Steve Wearden in the Rio Grande Leather event. She was presented with a "Steve Wearden Lifetime Achievement Award" by Corazón Leather via Jayson DaBoi Johnson, at the October 2024 Corazón Leather contest.
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Sources: Amber Garland Interview 24Dec24, Jayson DaBoi Johnson, NM Black Leather Weekend 2003 Mr & Ms NM Leather Annual Leather Family Reunion event program, 2008 Rio Grade Leather Contest program, Facebook.
2005/6-
New Mexico Leather League (NMLL)
New Mexico Leather League (NMLL) is a pansexual, cross-community organization that had long-standing intent to produce two events per year, Spring Pandemonium (evolved from Desert Pandemonium), (usually about March-May), and Leather Fiesta, since 2011, (usually October-November). NMLL was founded in 2006 with organization efforts back into 2005. Those involved in founding were Diane Wolf, Stan Alexander, Rex Swanda, and others. These events were quite large and regional, brining in national instructors for classes, having dungeons, socials, and hosting guest contests owned by others, notably Corazon Leather. NMLL had participation from many other local organizations, vendors, and venues. At its peak, the events were held at the large airport hotel (Crown Plaza, Sheraton). Many Leather Fiesta and Spring Pandemonium events had unique run pins, more of which can be seen on the history poster.
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In 2011, NMLL met at Bea's 2 (8603 Zuni Rd SE), 2 pm on the 3rd Saturday of every month. They had male and female co-president positions and sought to raise funding for NCSF, and had dues of $20. Male president was Aron, there was no female co-president, secretary was Rhiannon, Treasurer Suzan, and Member at Large was Katie.
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In 2015, NMLL teamed with Albuquerque boys of Leather (AboL) to produce the first Mr. and Ms. Corazón Leather competition, the first leather title since 2010 (the last year of Rio Grande Leather).
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The organization, like many others, has been punctuated with great success and slow periods, in the end providing great benefit to the New Mexico community. More recently in 2024, NMLL held a small "Albukinky" event at Purgatory Dungeon in place of Spring Pandemonium.
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Sources: Multiple members (discussions), board members of NMLL (discussions), nmleatherleage.org and at web.archive.org, newmexicoleatherleague.org at web.archive.org (2011-2017), nmleatherleague.com at web.archive.org (2017-), Kathryn Alexander (interview 30Aug2024).
2005-2006
New Mexico Leathermen's Network
New Mexico Leathermen's Network was a short-lived online community set up by Boy Randy, aka PosLeather, that provided a means for gay leathermen of New Mexico to network and connect with each other. The site defined "leathermen" as a generic term to represent gay men who are into the extreme BDSM/fetish lifestyle. The website included a discussion forum, calendar, personalized photo profiles, and a links section. The site referenced other contemporary organizations (Leather Wolves, AEL, NM:TNG, Desert Pandemonium, Rio Grande Leather, Pride Gym).
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Sources: nmleathermen.net on web.archive.org (2005-15Aug2006).
girls of Leather Albuquerque Metro (gLAM)
2006-?
girls of Leather: Albuquerque Metro was co-founded by LE and Diane Wolf in October 2006. LE (Lesbian Extraordinaire) has been involved in Leather since 1995 and had lived in Albuquerque. She moved out of town and later won the title of American Leatherwoman 2015.
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Sources: <a> leatherati.com/leatherati-bootblack-week-northwest-bootblacks-b2e5d4173f85 on 20Jun2013 while in Oakland CA, <b> leatherati.com/le-legirl-leather-fiesta-keynote-to-be-or-not-to-be-66c563d0e239 on 30Oct2016 for keynote in Albuquerque, Kathryn Alexander.
LE (Lesbian Extraordinaire), Leather Woman and co-founder of gLAM (girls of Leather: Albuquerque Metro).
2008-2014
New Mexico Fetlifers (NMFL)
New Mexico FetLifers (NMFL) was founded in November 2008 by Sera Miles. It coincided with the establishment and rise of the online "Fetlife" platform earlier in 2008. NMFL produced monthly classes, socials, and parties, until September 2014. NMFL produced the “Evolution of the Revolution" (EvoRevo) conference which hosted national speakers and held at a large local casino hotel. NMFL’s inaugural Board included Brittany Vick and Saint St James (Eldest Saint). Kim Wright joined the team in 2010; all three then served through the duration of NMFL’s life. NMFL held almost 100 events in its five and a half years including play parties, conferences, workshops, and social gathering. NMLF was widely viewed as having its emphasis on social engagement and less about hard core BDSM. NMFL's many regular educational and social events (1-3 hour) called "Providing Education with Respect and Vision" (PERV) charged a small fee. NMFL developed and strengthened bonds with the larger queer, trans, drag, and HIV-prevention communities, all who identified as kinky, Leather, BDSM, and/or fetishist; as well as to folks curious about the lifestyle. NMFL’s main goals were to support the growth of groups and events for folks living outside of the heteronormative paradigm, and to change the impression of, conversation around, and access to information about kink and BDSM, in Albuquerque and beyond. New Mexico Fetlifers became a registered domestic non-profit corporation on 3 Feb 2011, which is now revoked. NMFL chose to remove their group on Fetlife once the organization ceased operations.
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Sources: Sera Miles (interview 19May24), Eldest Saint (interviews, online text), newmexicofetlifers.com on web.archive.net (2011-2014), New Mexico Secretary of State Corporate Business Search, Master Dennis (interview 7Jul24).
Dave Rhodes' Hump Day, September 20, 2023
2008-
Deaf Leather Fraternity (DLF)
The Deaf Leather Fraternity (DLF) exists to serve the men of the Deaf/hearing Leather and S/M community that are based on principles of Love, Honor and Trust. "Five Deaf Leather Men got together and brainstormed a new concept of leather brotherhood in the Deaf community. We realized we need a fraternity organization specifically for Deaf Leather Men, and hearing leather men are also welcome. The DLF was incorporated on October 29, 2007." Their inclusive brotherhood membership is based upon requirements of male identifying; Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Hearing; Gay or Straight; 21 years old or older; and a strong desire in leather. They held "International Deaf Leather Contest" in the past, but that event is not currently active. New Mexico has a strong deaf community, in part due to a school for the deaf and hard of hearing in Santa Fe. DLF has many members here in New Mexico and they have held DLF leather runs in New Mexico.
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Deaf Leather Fraternity Run in Albuquerque, By Bear Mike, Dave Rhodes' Hump Day, September 20, 2023:
Deaf Leather Fraternity’s (DLF) national 2023 run brought together 15 members from across the country over an extended Labor Day weekend in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The run’s educational classes included Kinky Naked Yoga and Electroplay 101. A meet-and-greet was held at Sidewinders Bar & Grill, ABQ Eagle’s Leather and Kink Night, culminating several days events that included trips around New Mexico.
Many groups and individuals in Albuquerque's Leather community organized and held fundraisers with the local DLF brothers in the proceeding four months at Sidewinders and Social Club to assist with their run.
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Deaf Leather Fraternity (DLF) members on Church Street, Albuquerque, NM, for their September 2023 DLF Run.
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Sources: DLF Members (conversations), deafleatherfraternity.com, also on web.archive.org (2011-), theleatherjournal.com/hump-day/dave-rhodes-hump-day-september-20-2023, Bear Mike.
2011-2021
Albuquerque Leather Daddys
Albuquerque Leather Daddys (ALD) was established in 2011 after a number of the Leather Wolves members left that organization. There were 12 founding members (Ruben Gallegos, Rex Swanda, Mauro Montoya, Cory Gaeth, Matthew Christian, Dupree, John Skelton, Charlie Seigh, Kenny Chavez, Martin Clark, Shawn Paul Arquette, and Tom Krause). ALD was a group of friends with no bylaws, owned by Ruben Gallegos and Alpha boy Rex, and organized by a committee of about 6-10 members. ALD included both Doms (Daddys) and subs (boys). They held regular Gear Nights at Sidewinders Ranch (8900 Central Ave SE) on the 1st Saturdays of the month. They also held Leather Curious educational events, munches, and play parties.
From their official founding in 2011 and throughout their existence, they produce many fantasies and stage entertainment activities at Sidewinders, including some events that drew the largest attendance outside of Pride weekend. Their "Southwest Leather Fair - Route 69" was typically held in April or May each year and included performances, vendors, demos, auctions, mini fetish contests, and game booths.
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The Leather Daddys logo and patch concept came from five concepts by founding member Dupree. It was used as their back patch and also for their friendship pins. Back patches were produced by JD and Wade at Gear Werks in Albuquerque. The Daddys considered, but never finalized and implemented an associates patch.
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Events they organized brought in national leather personalities including Mama Sand Reinhardt, Dave Rhodes - Leather Journal, and multiple porn stars. Their eventual signature event was bar attendee involvement in a themed competition with votes from audience determining the winner. ALD provided donation of thousands of dollars to local charities such as Casa Q and Southwest Care. They held a number of leather runs including trips to Truth or Consequences including visits to artist Delmas Howe. In the last few years of their activities , they started holding a Leather Bear / Leather Cub Contest, produced by John Skelton, that had a short run of titles in 2017-2019. ALD produced floats for many Albuquerque Pride parades. ALD, like many organizations, paused during the 2020 Pandemic. Owners of ALD decided to cease operations of the group in 2021 rather than return to operations after the Pandemic.
Albuquerque Leather Daddys standing wtih Delmas Howe in front of Delmas' Autobiographical Mural. Left: ?, Rex, Corey Delmas, Ruben, John, Charles.
Albuquerque Leather Daddys, 2019, and others with Sidewinders Owner and Casa Q management and donation to Casa Q from their Leather Fair event. Left: John, Tim, Phil, Magnum, Ruben, Casa Q mgr, Mike & Rene Estacio-Burdick (Sidewinder Owners), Tom, Jer Bear, Marvin (Lash Onyx), Rex.
Albuquerque Leather Daddys and friends, 2019, patch presentation, Sidewinders ABQ Eagle back bar. Left: Tim, slave dennis, Bear Marvin (background), Jer Bear, Corey Gaeth (background), Ben, Ruben Gallegos (background), John Skelton, Michael Estacio-Burdick (background), Magnum, Adrian Thompson, Brian Tuffnell.
Albuquerque Leather Daddys - Pride Parade float 2012. Left Top: Charles Seigh, Jamie Shelton, Robert, Ruben, Samson Jacob, John Skelton, Tim, Mauro Walden-Montoya, Julian Wolf (back head turned to side), Michael Perea. Left Bottom: ?, Rex, Miles Padruig, Jamie Denison, Andy Walden-Montoya, Mateo Perea.
Albuquerque Leather Daddys and friends - Pride Parade float 2018. Leather Daddys members and friends. Left on float: Joe, Master Dennis, Mauro Walden Montoya, ? (background), Charles, ?, Magnum, Bear Mike, Allen, Ruben, Rex, Brian T, Adrian. Left standing in front of float: John Skelton, Glen, Jer Bear, ?, Tim, Tom (looking to side), ?, ? (pony). Kneeling left: Andy Walden-Montoya, Robert, ?, Cory G, ? (pony).
Fantasy: Do What It Takes - video. Ruben Gallegos, Bear Mike, Bear Marvin. Albuquerque Leather Daddys, Southwest Leather Fair, 2019, Sidewinders Ranch.
Fantasy: Looking for a Daddy - video. Ruben Gallegos, Magnum, John Skelton, Fermine. Albuquerque Leather Daddys, Southwest Leather Fair, 2019, Sidewinders Ranch.
Gathering at Restoration Pizza, Leather Daddys and friends. Left front to back: Master Dennis, boy Chris, Ruben Gallegos, Rex Swanda, Bear Mike, Bear Marvin. Right front to back: Glen, Cory Gaeth, slave Dennis, Adrian Thompson, Brian Tuffnell, Greg Boyd, Ty the Gentleman.
​Sources: Multiple NM Leather Daddy members and friends (conversations) including Bear Mike, boy Chris, Master Dennis (interview 7Jul24), Delmas (conversations), Dupree (interview), Lash Onyx (interview), Cory Gaeth, community members, leatherdaddys.org on web.archive.org, facebook.com/AlbuquerqueLeatherDaddys.
2011-
House Golden
House Golden was established by Lady Golden and her slave Lucky Lou, when they moved to Albuquerque in 2011 from the east cost area after being in the Baltimore and Washington DC area for 2-3 years. While there, they were immersed in a vibrant East Coast community with key players such as Jay Weisman. Arriving in Albuquerque, they experienced the heterosexual BDSM Master/slave community as not that active. This house was established to supports its members, service to the community as a leather foundation, protocol driven Master/slave house that would demonstrate these attributes along with history and integrity to the community through its actions. House Golden was instrumental at reestablishing a MasT chapter in Albuquerque after past attempts had failed. There was no organized heterosexual M/s group in Albuquerque at the time. Lady Golden and slave Lou asked Xander to join them in the 2014 founding of a MasT chapter. MasT held a community-wide event in 2016 that had a pirate theme. Lady Golden and slave Lou were members of AEL, speakers at AEL, speakers at Spring Pan and Leather Fiesta, and were presenters at the first Corazon Leather Contest in 2015.
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Members of the house include Lady Golden, slave Lou, Aurora, Lady Kathryne, slave Lou, slave Chris, Dona Damyn. Lady Golden and slave Lou moved to Placitas and retired from community involvement about 2017 to focus on their new home, although House Golden still continues as a Leather M/s family. Aurora moved to Houston.
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Sources: Lady Golden, slave Lou, Aurora (interview 21Aug24), Fetlife.
Some of House Golden's members. Front: Lady Golden, slave lucky lou. Top: Aurora, ?. About 2015.
Introduction of Albuquerque boys of Leather occurred at an Albuquerque Leather Daddys event, "Under Cover of Darkness - A tribute to the leather bars of the past" on Saturday April 14, 2012. This was in conjunction with Spring Pandemonium Leather Weekend held April 13-15, 2012.
2012-2021
Albuquerque boys of Leather (AboL)
Albuquerque boys of Leather (AboL) focused on safe space for submissives in the Leather community. Founded on February 7th, 2012, their focus was as a "submissive-oriented leather/kink social group whose mission is to provide self-identified Leatherboys a safe space in which to have fun, learn, develop, socialize, and support each other in our respective communities." AboL was introduced at a Sidewinders event "The Albuquerque Leather Daddys Present: Under Cover of Darkness - a tribute to leather bars of the past and present" in Albuquerque that was attended by Dave Rhodes (The Leather Journal), Vince Andrews (author, Leather boy Handbook), and 2012 Southwest LeatherSIR George and Leatherboy Bamm Bamm. <a> This event was during Spring Pandemonium Leather Weekend in Albuquerque, April 13-15, 2012.
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Their membership was open to kinky submissives who identify as boy/boi regardless of: marital status, sexual orientation, race, religion, or gender identity. Members had to be 18+ to join and there were no dues. They were connected and influenced by the Phoenix boys of Leather and Denver boys of Leather and partnered at times with United Court of the Sandias, New Mexico Fetlifers, New Mexico Leather League, and Albuquerque Leather Daddys. Events included business meeting, social meeting, "Boys Night Out" and interaction with other groups in Albuquerque. Their Joe’s Place (Carraro’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant) at 108 Vassar SE.
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Their Facebook page stated, "AboL is a group of leatherboys based in Albuquerque, NM. AboL gathers in boyhood and brotherhood to support our members and to serve our community through Honor, Integrity, Loyalty, Trust, and Service without regard to gender, orientation, or appearance."
They held multiple events for themselves and in cooperation with Albuquerque Leather Daddys. For a time they had "Leather boys present First Thursdays" at Sidewinders Ranch. Service was a primary tenant in AboL culture, as noted by the motto, "willing & AboL!" This organization had some great times along with periods of instability, essentially shutting down in the organization due to the 2020 Pandemic. Their last general meeting was February 6, 2020 at Sidewinders Ranch. Uncle Jaie (Davis) maintained hopes of restarting this group, but with his passing in 2024, that may not be realized.
Albuquerque boys of Leather and friends, 5 Aug 2017, at Sidewinders Ranch. Left-right: ? (on Andy's knee), ? (background), Andy Walden-Montoya, Mateo Perea (arm around Andy's other leg), ?, Tom Lang, Bear Mike, ?, Uncle Jaie (arm around Bear Mike's knee), ?, Boi Danny, Ro St James (kneeling below Boi Danny), ?.
Albuquerque boys of Leather and friends, 2018, Los Ranchos Pride. Left-right: Andy Walden-Montoya, Dallas, Jaie Davis (sitting), Ro St James, Joshua Lovato, Faustino Gallegos (sitting), Boi Danny. Adrian Thompson to the side (Albuquerque Leather Daddy).
Albuquerque boys of Leather and friends, 2017, Cararo's & Joes Place. From left top: ?, ?, ?, Boi Danny, Bear Mike, Andy Walden-Montoya, ?, Julian Wolf, Jaie Davis, Ivan Griego. Lower from left: Mateo Perea, Ro St James, Tom Lang, ?.
Albuquerque boys of Leather and friends, 6 Feb 2016. Casa Q benefit by Corazon Leather 2015. From left top: Joshua Lovato, Duke RuvShon, Mars Hall, Andy Walden-Montoya, Wade. From left kneeling: Caylub White, Jamie Denison, Miles Padruig, Abraham Aba Ortiz, ?.
Albuquerque boys of Leather (AboL) 2017 Father's Day BBQ Picnic with Albuquerque Leather Daddys in Carnuel. High row to right: Enrique Hinojos, boi Danny. From Left standing: Dupree, ?, Andy & Mauro Walden-Montoya, ? (far back), ? (far back), Tom & Tim, Ivan Griego, Mateo Parea. From left sitting: Magnum, Bear Mike, ?, Ro St James.
​Sources: Multiple AboL members, Bear Mike, Jaie Davis (conversations), Julian Wolf, Facebook accounts, facebook.com/ABQboL, abqboysofleather.net on web.archive.net (2013-2014), <a> Leather History in Albuquerque - Leatherati - boy bionic - 14Apr2012 - leatherati.com/leather-history-in-albuquerque-c03b52a5f5f3.
2007-?
Sandia Bears
Sandia Bears is "A non-profit fundraising club for gay men self-identifying as Bears and their admirers, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico." This group is an offshoot of Bears of Mañana, a group that did not have the formal structure needed for philanthropy. Sandia Bears was formed with charity in mind.
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They have held events at Sidewinders, coordinated attendance at bear events, ​pride, and munches. They were recognized as a non-profit corporation by NM Secretary of State on 15 Aug 2007, with directors being Tony Carson, Joe (Jay) Justice, and Lee Mitchell. Jay was the primary energy in the group. Other members include Lee Mitchell, Bruce Caruthers, and Ben Martinez. They held fundraisers the second Sunday of every month at Sidewinders and welcomed membership to any gay man. They were and offshoot and affiliated with their brother club, the Bears of Mañana, and went on outings with them. Their website went dark after 2009 and their non-profit status is no longer active.
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They held American Bear Awakening (ABA), the Bare Bones Bear Run for several years in Albuquerque in cooperation with Bears of Mañana. One of their contests for the 2010 Mr. Rise & Shine Bear, won by Kevin Richenstein. There was also a 2009 American Bear Awakening title.
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Sources: sandiabears.org on web.archive.net (2008-2009), americanbearawakening.com, D Tony Carson (interviews), Facebook, NM Secretary of State Business Search.
Sandia Bears, beer bust poster, 2007.
2014-
Masters And slaves Together
Masters And slaves Together (MAsT) is an international organization supporting the Master/slave community. MAsT Albuquerque chapter is a pansexual support and discussion group for those interested in the Master-Mistress/slave, Dominant/submissive or Power Exchange relationship. Persons of any gender and sexual orientation are welcome. It was founed in 2014 as a collaboration of Lady Golden, slave Lou, and Xander. They regularly hold various munches (Dom, slave) and meetings.
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Sources: MAsT Albuquerque, Fetlife, Lady Golden & slave Lou (interview 21Aug24).
2014-
Albuquerque Men's Naked Yoga / CLAW Naked Yoga / Coed Naked Yoga
Albuquerque Men's Naked Yoga a gay was started by Dr. Dan Hohmen, "Doc," in 2014 as a men's naturist group focused on physical and mental health through naked yoga. Most events were held in his home along with classical music from his modern player piano. In December 2018, Doc started traveling doctor work in Alaska. Bear Mike took over organizing events for continuity, brining in guest instructors, such as Raphael Sierra from Socorro and Therron Ricks from Chicago. He also negotiated space at The NM Clubhouse on Hawkins to hold events starting in February 2019. In June 2019, Bear Mike took over leading regular classes with Bear Marvin assisting.
In early 2020, it was clear that in-person meetings were not safe due to the Pandemic, leading to a switch to regular Zoom-based virtual yoga practices in March 2020. This enabled development of world-wide attendance and expansion of the Meetup group to over 1000 world-wide members over time with regular attendees from many countries including the Australia, South America, Canada, Asia, Europe including Turkey, Spain, the UK, and South Africa. Movement to virtual Zoom classes lead to collaboration with GoNaked Magazine and CLAW Virtual (Cleveland Leather Awareness Weekend) as CLAW moved to a virtual platform. Bear Mike lead CLAW Naked Yoga and the development of "Kinky Naked Yoga" and a more in-depth class by Bear Mike that equates Yoga with BDSM practice.
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After the Pandemic, Coed Kinky Naked Yoga was taught in Coed classes at New Mexico Leather League's (NMLL) Spring Pandemonium and Leather Fiesta as well as CLAW events in Cleveland and Los Angeles, Onyx Blackout in Ft Lauderdale, Oklahoma Leather Fest, and other Leather/Kink events. Coed Naked Yoga was held at Wired Event's facility for members of Spectrum Parties and Purgatory Dungeon. Other Naturist Groups and activities are shown in the "Other Groups" section at the bottom of this web page.
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Sources: meetup.com/albuquerque-mens-naked-yoga/, Dan Hohmen, community members, clawinfo.org.
2017-?
Osos of Rio Grande
Osos of Rio Grande is a gay men's group focused upon bears who inhabit the Rio Grande Valley and are interested in group outings, events, and merriment. This was a small group focused on friends and not closely associated with the other two bear groups in Albuquerque.
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Sources: facebook.com/OORGV/.
2017-
New Mexico Rope Bite
New Mexico Rope Bite is a community of rope and bondage enthusiasts in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and throughout New Mexico, with local events organized by various members. Their goal is to get bondage-centric people together in a fun atmosphere, so we can share our skills and network with each other.
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Sources: Fetlife, Venerable (conversations).
2017-
Albuquerque Leather & Kink (ALK)
Albuquerque Leather & Kink (ALK) is a Meetup-based group with stated purpose to provide service as an inclusive centralized meetup forum to announce and coordinate participation in leather, kink, and BDSM events and activities for Albuquerque and New Mexico. It includes more distant events that are larger or relevant to the NM population. It was started by Bear Mike in collaboration with Julian Addams-Wolf when Bear Mike noticed the local BDSM and alternative lifestyle groups were not sharing events in a way that was easy for the interested public to find. In September 2018 it had 200 subscribers and over 1000 in 2024. ALK primarily reflects other events and information, holding few of its own events.
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Sources: Bear Mike, meetup.com/Albuquerque-Leather-Kink/ live and also on web.archive.net.
2018-
Domum Corium Cordis (DCC)
House of Leather Heart
Domum Corium Cordis (DCC) is Latin for House of Leather Heart. This is a leather family house centered in Albuquerque, NM, established in 2018 with the primary values of Family, Integrity, and Altruism. Co-heads of house are Bear Marvin and Bear Mike. Five other members and large number of friends, including other leather houses, that have demonstrated consistency in house values.
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Through their value of altruism the hose has created resources for the community including this history, nine videos about 8 hours class "Dungeon Monitoring Training from Different Perspectives," class "Better BDSM with Passion," class "Born Kinky - Discovering Kink," class "Improving Community Inclusion," class "From Toys to Tasers - Understanding the Breadth of Electro-play in BDSM, class "Naked Yoga," class "Kinky Naked Yoga," BDSM Trivia Videos,
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Sources: DCC members, Bear Marvin, Bear Mike, Fetlife (LeatherHeart), facebook.com/houseofleatherheart,
2019-
ONYX High Desert - ONYX Men of Color
ONYX High Desert (OHD), a chapter of the national organization, ONYX Men of Color, started its presence in 2019 new Mexico by Bear Marvin (Lash Onyx) and Bear Mike (Poppa Savant Onyx) as Albuquerque residents with membership in the Lone Star Chapter (Dallas, TX). Other Albuquerque-based members joining the chapter include Orthus Onyx, Minotaur Onyx, Lestat Onyx (Uncle Jaie), and Fire Onyx. They hold Gear Night at Sidewinders Bar & Grill on the 3rd Saturday, munches every two months, "invasions," and other events. They started events at Sidewinders Ranch, including their Onyx Black & White Fetish Ball in February 2020. After about a three-year effort, OHD was approved by the ONYX National Council on 13 November 2024 as the 11th chapter of ONYX, after which it became a separate 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
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More broadly, ONYX Men of Color is a national organization founded in 1995 around the Chicago area to provide education and serve as a bridge for BIPOC men to the greater Leather Community. Their mission is to educate and empower gay and bi-sexual men of color who explore the Leather Lifestyle. National Onyx Men holds a run every two years entitled "Blackout" that is open to everyone.
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Sources: Albuquerque Onyx members, Bear Marvin, Bear Mike, onyxhighdesert.com, onyxmen.com.
Onyx Black & White Fetish Ball, Albuquerque, Sidewinders Ranch, February 2020.
Onyx Black & White Fetish Ball, Albuquerque, Sidewinders Ranch, February 2020. Top row left: Jinx, ?, ?, Vincent, Rowan. Bottom left: ?, Bear Marvin, Magnum, Bear Mike, Brian Tuffnell-Thompson, Michael Estacio-Burdick.
2019-2020
The Enchanted Sisters (Las Hermanas Encantadas)
The Enchanted Sisters was intended to be a postulant (in information) chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence®, which is a world-wide organization. Adrian Thompson received a divine calling to be fabulous and established a chapter which included sisters and knights. Members included Adrian, Jinx, Rowen, and others. These sisters and guards (protectors of the sisters) expressed their joy and temperance at a number of Albuquerque events as they ramped up. They indulged in their largest presence, spreading grace and debauchery at the February 2020 Onyx Black & White Fetish ball at Sidewinders Ranch. Others helped the sisters prepare and fundraise, including Ty the Gentleman. There were a number of challenges in continuing the formation of this group in Albuquerque, and the effort stopped as the pandemic set in during 2020.
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The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence® are an Order of queer and trans nuns that believe all people have a right to express their unique joy and beauty. They were established in San Francisco on Easter Sunday, 1979, and are devoted to community service, ministry and outreach to those on the edges, and to promoting human rights, respect for diversity and spiritual enlightenment. They use humor and irreverent wit to expose the forces of bigotry, complacency and guilt that chain the human spirit.
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Sources: Community members and pictures from events in Albuquerque, Bear Mike, The Enchanted Sisters at thesisters.org, Ty the Gentleman (interview 25Aug2024).
2022-
Four Corners Collective Kink (FCCK)
Four Corners Collective Kink (FCCK) is a group in Farmington, NM serving the Four Corners area of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. ​As a private group, they state dedication to providing space for a safe and fun way to explore, enjoy, and educate all things kink, within their comfort zones. FCCK is an offshoot of The Four Corners Players Group.
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Sources: FCCK members, Fetlife.
2022-
Women in New Mexico Kink (WINK)
Women in New Mexico Kink (WINK) creates space for women and non-binary people of all gender expressions and sexual orientations within the New Mexico kink and BDSM community. Tenets of the organization are Empowerment, Kink Education, and Sisterhood. They hold munches, periodic workshops, and play parties. Men are not allowed as members, but are allowed to join workshops and play parties as plus-ones. Their primary organization is on Fetlife. Events are usually held in Albuquerque.
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Sources: penny_head (Fetlife), fetlife.com/groups/243435/.
2023-
Duke City Pups and Handlers (DC-PAH)
Duke City Pups and Handlers (DC-PAH) is focused on creating safe space and events for the pups and handlers community. It is a membership organization supporting the puppy lifestyle in and around the great Albuquerque metro area. They hold events at Sidewinders.​
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Sources: DC-PAH members.
2023-
New Mexico Respect Ethics Acceptance in Leather, Inc (NM-REAL)
New Mexico Respect Ethics Acceptance in Leather, Inc., (NM-REAL) is a 501c3 public charity​ with strong bylaws and code of conduct. Its purposes include educational, charitable, outreach, community leadership by example, focused on the alternative lifestyle communities that include all genders and sexualities. It is intended as an organization to bring community together helping individuals and other community organizations. This is a pansexual organization. Its foundations began in 2022 and formalized in 2023 by four board members that left another organization. Many others joined in crafting structure. Tax-exempt status was granted in 2024.
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Sources: NM-REAL members, Rebecca, Bear Mike, Fetlife (LeatherHeart), facebook.com/NewMexicoREAL/.
2023-
Breakfast Bears
Breakfast Bear is a group in Albuquerque started by Karl Whaley in 2023​. It's just a group of old and new friends having breakfast once a month on a weekend. Everyone is welcome. The group organizes interactions and outings in the community. Their logo was created by Tino Herrera.
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Sources: facebook.com/groups/5863950366987279/, Tino Herrera.
Other Groups
Other groups influential on New Mexico Leather & Alternative communities include the following:
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Leather Families can be numerous, from formal to informal, small to large. This history effort does not focus upon leather families unless they established and named a formal house and perhaps have a formal crest. For those houses we know about, we've listed them above. If you know of other formal leather houses in New Mexico, let us know.
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Common Bond, or Common Bond New Mexico Foundation, is the oldest LGBTQ_ organization in Albuquerque, founded in 1981 (commonbondnm.org). The mission of the Common Bond is to strengthen the LGBTQ+ community of New Mexico through programs and partnerships that serve at risk sectors of the LGBTQ+ population. They have or in the past held a library of gay history. Common Bond was the recipient of support from the Leather community.
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Hearts of the West Motorrcycle Club was in Santa Fe, NM and listed in the same issues of Dummer Magazine as Hijos Del Sol, Motorcyclemen of NM, and People Exchanging Power (PEP). LeatherWomen United, used to meet at 313 Espejo St NE. in Albuquerque. Bisexual Woman's Social Network and Bi's R Us (Castillo St NW) were two support groups, active about 1999 <b>. The Trik (trik.com) was an on-line place for the New Mexico men's community. <a>
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Swinger Groups are part of alternative lifestyles in New Mexico, most often composed of straight, bi, and pansexual communities. These groups are typically underground and not well publicized due to the normative society pressures on sexual freedom. Most activity for swingers have been at The NM Clubhouse, Spectrum Parties, and It's A Secret.
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Naturism or Nudist Events has been a frequent activity in New Mexico that has been embodied by various groups in the past and that exist now. Naked and Not Ashamed was a Albuquerque Naturists Nude Recreation Group for men, often meeting at 1810 Silver SE. <a> Chile Peckers Association was a nonsexual, social nudist group for Gay men in Albuquerque meeting at 440 Wisconsin, NE. <a>. NuMex (Nude Men of New Mexico) used to meet at 613 Salazar St, Santa Fe. <b> Albuquerque Men's Naked Yoga is a currently-operating group that was run by Doc Hohmen for years and was taken over by Bear Mike when Doc moved out of town. See that entry above starting in 2014.
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​​Fisting Groups in New Mexico have been informal, typically lead by individuals in private spaces. "Coming out" in fisting has generally been more difficult than coming out in leather, so this community is more protective of their privacy. No structured or organized fisting club has been established in New Mexico. Dave Bedford, founder of Pride Gym, hosted fisting groups at the gym, his home, and other locations. Craig Pfister facilitated events at many locations over the years. Slave Dennis also held regular fisting events at his home and other locations. He also taught fisting at an NMLL event at the Sheraton. Fisting is becoming more visible in the pan and straight communities.
"Trust: The Hand Book: A Guide to the Sensual and Spiritual Art of Handballing," by Bert Herrman, is a key resource in fisting that has extended roots in New Mexico. The author lived in Tajique, NM, intending to create a fisting retreat there. Bert passed away and another person took ownership of this property and the copyright to the hand book.​
Bear groups in New Mexico are part of the alternative lifestyle community - promoting body positivity, sexual freedom, and easy-going lifestyle. Some of these groups are represented in this history.​​
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Groups and open social activities are not for everyone. There have been many alternative lifestyle, leather, and kinksters, that have practiced their lifestyle and created safe space in private. We leave these to the privacy they seek and enjoy - but they do influence the broader culture.​
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Sources for this section: Internet, qrd.org/qrd/www/usa/new_mexico/directory.htm <a>, Drummer Magazine #114, #116, 1987 <b>, qrd.org/qrd/wwwusa/new_mexico/qnm-a-z-!intro.htm <b>, Craig Dill (interview 25Aug25).
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Note: The history compilation on this page is courtesy of and Copyright 2024, Domum Corium Cordis, House of Leather Heart. head@houseofleatherheart.org.