It gives me great pleasure to welcome each and every one of you to this, the 30th Anniversary of International Mr. Leather. I cannot begin to describe my deep feelings of excitement and joy as we once again "Welcome The World" to Chicago this Memorial Day Weekend! Thirty years ago, some 400 leathermen gathered for our first-ever IML. This weekend, we expect over 18,000 people from around the world to join in the celebration of IML; to partake of the many contest events, parties and meetings; and to experience all the other special ways in which IML connects friends, both old and new. Whether you are a returning guest or a first-timer, each and every IML is different. But just as exciting, I promise you. We work diligently twelve months of the year to make IML Weekend bigger, better and different. Thanks to our year-round staff and our 300+ volunteers, I know this year will be a weekend filled with memories to last a lifetime. As in years past, the Leather Market, located on the lower conference level of the Hyatt Regency Chicago, will be the crossroads where everyone attending IML will pass. This year, I am proud to say the Leather Market is the biggest we've ever hosted, with vendors from around the world offering up goods, gear and services to meet almost any need, taste and fetish! Yes, a lot has changed since 1979 and it just keeps getting better. This IML Program Guide contains all the information you need in terms of the Official Weekend Schedule. Contest events, parties, vendor locations, etc. are all here. And, with so much to plan for and do, I can only suggest you try not to do it all at once, in one day! Please be sure to take advantage of not only the goings-on here at the host hotel, but also outside! Chicago is a city that is filled with amazing tourist attractions: world-class shopping, museums, theater, and restaurants. Yes, there is a lot to take in. When you do explore our City you will learn first-hand that Chicago is a warm and friendly place and a place we are proud to call home. IML has changed a lot over the years because of you. What first began as an event for the "hard-core leatherman" has now become representative of all things "fetish." Young and old(er); beginner or experienced; man or woman; gay or straight (and all in-between); first-timer or an 'alum'; it doesn't matter. Each of you is a member of the IML Family, taking your rightful place at this, our Annual Family Reunion. Again, a warm and heartfelt welcome to each and every one you. IML is a lot of work, but it is each of you that drives us to do the best we can to make sure you have the most memorable experience possible. Thank You for coming this yearand Thank You for 30 amazing years! Play hardPlay safeAlways.and WELCOME TO IML!