CHICAGO – HIGH SHINE, a benefit for the 15th anniversary of International Ms. Bootblack, was held at Touche in Chicago on Saturday, January 19. The benefit was a huge success with $1,257 raised and the bar packed.
Chicago titleholders and IMsL and IMsBB supporters from across the Great Lakes came to support the fundraiser. “I’m impressed and that takes a lot,” said host and IMsBB 1999 Leslie Anderson at the event. “It was busy all night, the other bootblacks were busy. I call that a good day.” The event surpassed its goal of $1,000. Money raised will go to the travel fund for IMsBB and towards a documentary on the title.
Leslie was joined by IMsBB 2012 Tarna Scyanne and IMsBB 2004 Izzy. Internationl Ms. Leather 2012 Synn acted as emcee and announced the winners of the raffles that took place through out the night. People could also buy jello shots and bid on items in the silent auction. Boots (of course), posters and registrations to IML and ABW were all available for bid.
The event also had a couple of firsts. It was the first time that women in any number had been allowed into the back room during the bar’s montly Gear Night. It was also the first time a femme bootblack had worked in the back room. The notorious back bar is usually a men only space.
IMsBB will take place during IMsL weeked in San Francisco from April 18 through 21, 2013. Go to the official website to register and the latest announcements from IMsL.
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