By the time this hits the stand, I will have been to N.Y.C. and back for the Leather Leadership Conference. Buster, the new Mr. San Diego Leather, will also be there as an attendee. This will be his first official trip as Mr. San Diego Leather 2006. More about the conference when we return. But, for now, let’s get to know Buster a little better.

Rocket: Why did you decide to run for a leather title?

Buster: I am a nonstandard leatherman. I am 28 and have been in leather for 10 years. I am bisexual, versatile, a gentleman and a switch. I don’t remember the last time we were openly represented [laughs].

Rocket: How does your background, work or personal, help or hinder you as Mr. San Diego Leather?

Buster: I’m a social man, a bookkeeper by day and a leather titleholder by night, so I’m very oral, organized and experienced. Take that however you want, but it helps!

Rocket: What message do you try to get across to people as you meet them?

Buster: The leather community can be scary to those who do not know about us, so I like to tell people how we hold educational events several times each month, that we are a strong fund-raising force locally and nationwide, and that we aim to promote mentoring, respect, safety and love among all other things. We’re also having fantastic sex, and there’s nothing wrong with that!

Rocket: Do your looks play a part in representing the title?

Buster: Absolutely. I admit I am not modest or shy – not at all. I’m adept at deflecting wandering hands, even when I think the person is hot! There’s a look to convey, but there’s a message behind it. Though, when the medal comes off, all bets are off.

Rocket: How did you prepare for the contest?

Buster: I asked well-regarded people in the community their thoughts on my platform, and also talked to newcomers and less public individuals, asking them what they thought about the leather community. I decided I had what it took to fulfill the commitments, and I found a message in my heart that I enjoy teaching. It’s all about agreeing to disagree and sharing our personal truths. Finding the right mindset is crucial, being a good titleholder, in my opinion, is all about heart.

Rocket: Were there any surprises in the judges’ chamber?

Buster: They were stoic, tough, serious interrogators. They asked questions which really showed me their role in the process. They are trying to choose the best fit for the title, and it was a stressful, intense interview. I enjoyed every minute of it. At every turn, Miss Julia, Ms. South Plains Leather 2003, thankfully added some comic relief. She lured me in with kindness and now she’s punishing me three times a week in the gym.

Rocket: What was your favorite part of the contest?

Buster: The basket auction. With the help of local businesses, such as Macleo Sexy Leather, Obelisk bookstore, DGI, Ringold Alley, The Loft, Crypt, The Lumberjack Grille and countless individual supporters who donated, my basket raised almost $2,000 for Being Alive San Diego and the Tom of Finland Foundation. I understand that the generous Dr. T who bought the basket is still going through it. That’s a win-win for everyone.

Rocket: How have people around you reacted to your win?

Buster: People have been so polite, congratulating me and introducing themselves, listening to me talk and tell bad jokes – people are very tolerant. My vanilla friends have been so supportive; that means so much. Some of them are finding they might not be so vanilla after all.

Rocket: Do people throw themselves at you now that you have the title?

Buster: Yes. I am confident, but modest, and I am humbled by the attention. I ask them to volunteer before I’ll play with them. So far, very few have followed through.

Rocket: Do titleholders get laid as much as we think they do?

Buster: Let me just say that I’m very particular. I know what I like, and I’m able to find it more easily now.

Rocket: Advice for anyone planning on running for a title?

Buster: It’s not so far out of reach for you. If you are considering it, you are probably a good candidate. Don’t run to win, run to show your interest in serving the community. Only one person is chosen, but every contestant is respected and held up for their commitment and courage. How graciously you win or lose and what you do before and after the contest is the true measure for all of us.