Jade in America
Miss Gay America 2014 Jessica Jade
November 2013
On October 13, 2013 my dream was realized. Being crowned Miss Gay America 2014 will always be one of the greatest highlights of my life and I am still in shock that it finally happened!!! I have chosen to name my newsletter “Jade in America”. Special thanks to my sister and one of my inspirations, MGA 2012 Kirby Kolby for the idea. Over the year I will use this newsletter as a tool for you, the readers to get to know me better. I plan to share personal thoughts, memories, and experiences as I travel the country. I am beyond ecstatic to roll up my sleeves and get to work to keep Miss Gay America in the forefront of pageantry!! Although I feel that I am a seasoned and experienced entertainer and know a wealth about the Miss Gay America system, I know there is still a lot to learn. I have waited for this moment for over 10 years and I am so ready!!!
I would like to share a bit about myself this month. My given name is Billy Wilson and I am 32 years old. I live in Roanoke, VA where I work full time as radiologic technologist, specializing in cat scan tomography. I have been in the field of radiology now for 14 years and I absolutely love what I do! I have worked for the same health care company since graduating college. I have also been doing female impersonation for 14 years. In fact the art form help pay for my college education. I first took to the stage at The Park in Roanoke for a talent night show competition, after being dared. I did not win that night but a seed was planted and I was addicted. I worked tirelessly practicing make up techniques, performing, watching other entertainers, asking tons of questions and for advice to become the entertainer I am today. Till this day I consider myself a work in progress, always open minded and willing to learn. We are never too old to learn new tricks or different ways!
Over the course of my career in the art form I have had the opportunity to represent many titles all over the country but my dream and passion was always to be a Miss Gay America. I first learned about MGA after performing with Miss Gay America 1998 Maya Montana. The way she carried herself, the way she interacted with fans, the way she performed, dressed, and communicated with others intrigued me. After learning she was a former Miss Gay America, I started studying the system. I quickly realized I too, wanted to be a Miss Gay America. I first came to MGA in 2003 as Miss VA Regional. It was the first time I had ever competed in a national pageant and needless to say I was not ready, even though I thought I was. My first year competing was a horrible experience. Anything that could go wrong did. We had a car in our fleet break down 100 miles outside of Little Rock, back up dancers cancel at the last moment, and I lost administration point deduction during the competition. I even spilled $86.13 cents worth of gas on the pavement as I pulled the gas pump hose out the gas pump wall, leaving the pageant. I vowed I would never return to MGA or pageantry. Needless to say that thought didn’t last long.
I came back to Miss Gay America in 2007, after winning Miss Gay United States and competing at Miss Gay USofA twice. During my hiatus from MGA I felt like something was missing and I was heart- broken that I missed the crowning of Raquel, Nicole, and Luscious. Upon returning I felt like I was “home”. I had a fire in me like never before. The first year back as Miss Gay Smokey Mountain America, I placed 14th. I remember leaving Memphis that year more inspired and hungrier than ever. The next year back I came representing Miss Gay DC America 1st alternate and I placed in the top 10. You would have thought I had won Miss Gay America when they called my name into the top 10 that night! I would come back to Miss America the next 5 years consecutively, each year placing higher than the previous year. I never allowed myself to get down or bitter by my not winning. Instead, I would always continue to grow, listen, learn, and try harder. I always knew I would be a Miss Gay America, I just didn’t know when God was going to bless me with the honor. Thankfully the blessing came just in time, on time!
Competing for MGA has taught me so much about myself, it has allowed me the opportunity to travel the country, meet some amazing people, and has honestly kept me focused on a positive direction in life. The things we want most in life usually come with the most sacrifices and even though they have been plentiful and the journey was long….. It was worth it!!! Just 2 weeks into my reign, the love I have been shown has been unbelievable. I am truly honored to be a part of this organization, the history, the legacy, the family, the fans, contestants, and promoters…that is MISS GAY AMERICA!!!!! I will certainly do my best to make you all proud.
I’ve always heard that winning MGA would change my life. I agree, but definitely for the better. I have been in a whirlwind of emails, text, phone calls, interviews, and Facebook messages. I have booked several long distance trips for the next few months and can’t wait to get out there and spread the word on how great MGA is!!!! I had the pleasure of being interviewed by the local news station here in Roanoke and by the local newspaper since my winning. I was somewhat nervous opening my home and my heart to the public, as you never know how people outside the world of what we do, will perceive us. However, I feel it may be my calling to shed light on why and what we really do and show the world all the hard work, dedication, creativity, and the truth behind the art form.
I wanted to add a personal touch to the Excellence newsletter each month by including a “Dear Jessica” section. In this section I will answer or give advice to your questions. This will give you the readers a chance to pick Miss Americas mind and better know me and my thought process. I am no expert in anything, but your questions can range from anything related to pageantry, love, or just plain life! Please email me at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com by the 10th of each month and I will choose several inquiries to feature on that months “Jade in America”. Please keep it classy and serious!! =) I had announced this on my Facebook right after winning and I would like to share one “Dear Jessica” questions with you all this month…
Daniel Scott/Ashley Lynn writes...
Good Evening, I would like to say congrats on winning Miss Gay America 2014. But my
question is , I have been competing in the Miss Gay America system in
Pennsylvania since 2008. out of 5 years i have competed i have placed top
5 three times. And 1st alt in 2011. How do you always figure out the best
talent that you know is gonna score well. I seem like every year i get a
talent together lack something. But during critiques its oh it was amazing
but this person was better then you. I but alot of thought and time into my
talents. What is the limit for Miss Gay America. How did you know from your
prelims to the nation level that your talents where right. I thank you for
your time and any helpful advise would be greatly appreciated. Have a
wonderful reign and i look forward to see you at Miss Pa sometime this
year. Thank you Daniel Scott/ Ashley Lynn
Miss Gay America 2014 Jessica Jade writes...
Dear Daniel/Ashley!! Thank you for the email! I hope you’re doing well! I totally understand your situation. I've always been the type of entertainer who loves huge productions for talent. The more dancers, props, costuming changes, and creativity...the better! However, the scoring in the Miss America system doesn't necessarily care about all the bells and whistles, buts scores well a talent that is clean. It's almost like "sometimes less is more". Over the years I've done various types of talents, from solo talents to a huge production with dancers and moving props. Some judges loved both, some dislike either. It's very hard to make those 5 people judging you fall in love with everything little thing you put in front of them. My advice to you is to choose a talent that represents you at an entertainer. Choose one that you can rehearse over and over and over again and not get bored with. Keep it clean, concise, and tell a story. Also remember, even though you have 7 minutes for talent, you don't have to use all 7 minutes, don't let the talent go on and on and get boring. Get in, make the judges fall in love with you, then get out, leaving them wanting more. Throughout my 8 years of competing, people or judges panels would often ask, "why do you think you keep losing?" My answer always has been "someone was simply better than I was." Although it’s hard to hear, pageantry is a competition, and unfortunately someone has to lose. The goal is to never give up , learn from the mistakes and move forward becoming more polished and a better well- rounded entertainer. I wish you success in all you do and if I can be of any assistance as your prepare for PA America, please let me know!
All my love, respect, and admiration….Let’s do this!!!!!!
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
I would like to share a bit about myself this month. My given name is Billy Wilson and I am 32 years old. I live in Roanoke, VA where I work full time as radiologic technologist, specializing in cat scan tomography. I have been in the field of radiology now for 14 years and I absolutely love what I do! I have worked for the same health care company since graduating college. I have also been doing female impersonation for 14 years. In fact the art form help pay for my college education. I first took to the stage at The Park in Roanoke for a talent night show competition, after being dared. I did not win that night but a seed was planted and I was addicted. I worked tirelessly practicing make up techniques, performing, watching other entertainers, asking tons of questions and for advice to become the entertainer I am today. Till this day I consider myself a work in progress, always open minded and willing to learn. We are never too old to learn new tricks or different ways!
Over the course of my career in the art form I have had the opportunity to represent many titles all over the country but my dream and passion was always to be a Miss Gay America. I first learned about MGA after performing with Miss Gay America 1998 Maya Montana. The way she carried herself, the way she interacted with fans, the way she performed, dressed, and communicated with others intrigued me. After learning she was a former Miss Gay America, I started studying the system. I quickly realized I too, wanted to be a Miss Gay America. I first came to MGA in 2003 as Miss VA Regional. It was the first time I had ever competed in a national pageant and needless to say I was not ready, even though I thought I was. My first year competing was a horrible experience. Anything that could go wrong did. We had a car in our fleet break down 100 miles outside of Little Rock, back up dancers cancel at the last moment, and I lost administration point deduction during the competition. I even spilled $86.13 cents worth of gas on the pavement as I pulled the gas pump hose out the gas pump wall, leaving the pageant. I vowed I would never return to MGA or pageantry. Needless to say that thought didn’t last long.
I came back to Miss Gay America in 2007, after winning Miss Gay United States and competing at Miss Gay USofA twice. During my hiatus from MGA I felt like something was missing and I was heart- broken that I missed the crowning of Raquel, Nicole, and Luscious. Upon returning I felt like I was “home”. I had a fire in me like never before. The first year back as Miss Gay Smokey Mountain America, I placed 14th. I remember leaving Memphis that year more inspired and hungrier than ever. The next year back I came representing Miss Gay DC America 1st alternate and I placed in the top 10. You would have thought I had won Miss Gay America when they called my name into the top 10 that night! I would come back to Miss America the next 5 years consecutively, each year placing higher than the previous year. I never allowed myself to get down or bitter by my not winning. Instead, I would always continue to grow, listen, learn, and try harder. I always knew I would be a Miss Gay America, I just didn’t know when God was going to bless me with the honor. Thankfully the blessing came just in time, on time!
Competing for MGA has taught me so much about myself, it has allowed me the opportunity to travel the country, meet some amazing people, and has honestly kept me focused on a positive direction in life. The things we want most in life usually come with the most sacrifices and even though they have been plentiful and the journey was long….. It was worth it!!! Just 2 weeks into my reign, the love I have been shown has been unbelievable. I am truly honored to be a part of this organization, the history, the legacy, the family, the fans, contestants, and promoters…that is MISS GAY AMERICA!!!!! I will certainly do my best to make you all proud.
I’ve always heard that winning MGA would change my life. I agree, but definitely for the better. I have been in a whirlwind of emails, text, phone calls, interviews, and Facebook messages. I have booked several long distance trips for the next few months and can’t wait to get out there and spread the word on how great MGA is!!!! I had the pleasure of being interviewed by the local news station here in Roanoke and by the local newspaper since my winning. I was somewhat nervous opening my home and my heart to the public, as you never know how people outside the world of what we do, will perceive us. However, I feel it may be my calling to shed light on why and what we really do and show the world all the hard work, dedication, creativity, and the truth behind the art form.
I wanted to add a personal touch to the Excellence newsletter each month by including a “Dear Jessica” section. In this section I will answer or give advice to your questions. This will give you the readers a chance to pick Miss Americas mind and better know me and my thought process. I am no expert in anything, but your questions can range from anything related to pageantry, love, or just plain life! Please email me at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com by the 10th of each month and I will choose several inquiries to feature on that months “Jade in America”. Please keep it classy and serious!! =) I had announced this on my Facebook right after winning and I would like to share one “Dear Jessica” questions with you all this month…
Daniel Scott/Ashley Lynn writes...
Good Evening, I would like to say congrats on winning Miss Gay America 2014. But my
question is , I have been competing in the Miss Gay America system in
Pennsylvania since 2008. out of 5 years i have competed i have placed top
5 three times. And 1st alt in 2011. How do you always figure out the best
talent that you know is gonna score well. I seem like every year i get a
talent together lack something. But during critiques its oh it was amazing
but this person was better then you. I but alot of thought and time into my
talents. What is the limit for Miss Gay America. How did you know from your
prelims to the nation level that your talents where right. I thank you for
your time and any helpful advise would be greatly appreciated. Have a
wonderful reign and i look forward to see you at Miss Pa sometime this
year. Thank you Daniel Scott/ Ashley Lynn
Miss Gay America 2014 Jessica Jade writes...
Dear Daniel/Ashley!! Thank you for the email! I hope you’re doing well! I totally understand your situation. I've always been the type of entertainer who loves huge productions for talent. The more dancers, props, costuming changes, and creativity...the better! However, the scoring in the Miss America system doesn't necessarily care about all the bells and whistles, buts scores well a talent that is clean. It's almost like "sometimes less is more". Over the years I've done various types of talents, from solo talents to a huge production with dancers and moving props. Some judges loved both, some dislike either. It's very hard to make those 5 people judging you fall in love with everything little thing you put in front of them. My advice to you is to choose a talent that represents you at an entertainer. Choose one that you can rehearse over and over and over again and not get bored with. Keep it clean, concise, and tell a story. Also remember, even though you have 7 minutes for talent, you don't have to use all 7 minutes, don't let the talent go on and on and get boring. Get in, make the judges fall in love with you, then get out, leaving them wanting more. Throughout my 8 years of competing, people or judges panels would often ask, "why do you think you keep losing?" My answer always has been "someone was simply better than I was." Although it’s hard to hear, pageantry is a competition, and unfortunately someone has to lose. The goal is to never give up , learn from the mistakes and move forward becoming more polished and a better well- rounded entertainer. I wish you success in all you do and if I can be of any assistance as your prepare for PA America, please let me know!
All my love, respect, and admiration….Let’s do this!!!!!!
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
December 2013
I can barely believe that it has been a month since I was crowned Miss Gay America 2014!!! The past month has flown by!! So many of the “forever” Miss America’s have told me that the year will be over before I know it, and to embrace and cherish every moment. I am doing just that!!! I have lived, breathed, and dreamed MGA for so many years while competing, and this year will be no different from previous years. However, this year I am living the dream, not fighting for it to happen. The pressure is off!! Whew!!! I don’t envy those already gearing up and making preparations to compete at MGA 2015. I want to share a few tidbits of pageant prep advice to those potential contestants this month.
I know the road getting to nationals is very expensive, time consuming, and can be full of set -backs and disappointments. I urge all hopeful contestants to not procrastinate, choose a prelim, one that is the most financially feasible to get to and that works best with your schedule. While grand prize packages are always appreciated and useful, don’t let that be the sole decision maker for your choice. I never opted for one that offered the most money, but chose one whose promoter I connected with or had a great reputation within the industry. When you secure your spot to nationals, you and your promoter become a team and it’s vital that you have a great working relationship. The MGA system is made up of MANY great promoters that have been involved with MGA for years. They work tirelessly to ensure their contestants are taken care of and have the tools and support necessary to do their very best at nationals. I have been fortunate to have had some great promoters all my years while competing. Many of which I consider good friends. My hat is off to all our promoters!!! Without you, there would be no Miss Gay America! Please know that your hard work, dedication and service does not go unnoticed and that you are appreciated and respected. I am so honored and eager to work with all of you this year!!! Potential contestants should narrow down a list of possible prelims to compete at and reach out to those promoters and get a “feel” for them before making your final decision.
Another important step in preparing for nationals is setting a realistic budget. Don’t try to live above your means. I always practice if “I can’t make it happen myself, then I don’t count on it”. When I first started competing so many years ago I was in X-ray school and couldn’t afford huge production talents with professional dancers or thousands of dollars for gowns and costumes, that I dreamed of producing. I worked hard, I graduated college and gained employment with a leader in health care in my local community. I never slighted the “life of Billy” for “Jessica” and vice versa. I honestly think that’s why I have been successful on and off stage. It’s easy to get lost in the stars when you win titles or people fly you around the country, however it’s important to stay grounded and true to yourself. Never lose sight of where you are or where you want to be. Always take care of yourself and try to make decisions that are going to keep you moving steadily ahead to becoming successful. Successful can mean a multitude of things, not always financially. Your version of success is totally up to you!!! In a nut shell if it comes down to paying rent or buying a new gown… pay your rent!!! You have to have somewhere to live!!! =)
My last bit of advice for this month is to prepare your package while closely using the MGA scoring system as a guide to better your chance of obtaining the most possible points from every category. Read and study the category descriptions meticulously. The key is to make your package as clean, consistent, and precise as possible, while following the MGA guidelines of scoring. It may take some time to perfect your skills to gain the most possible points, but again work hard, study, polish, and be open to growing and learning. Another key is to not do things that are outside your skill set. Unfortunately, not all of us are born dancers. While most talent productions, be it main talent of solo talent, usually feature some sort of dancing, if you are not a dancer or able to “look” like one… try and find another option that will intrigue your judges, audience, and yourself! Throughout my years of competing I would have judges ask me “are you a trained dancer”? Obviously insinuating that I should have chosen a different talent. Although, I have never been professionally trained in the world of dance (please know I am envious of anyone who has achieved greatness in the art of dance) I am a dancer at heart!! Haha I made the decision to keep working and pushing myself to “look” like a dancer and learn the choreography, as I have always been a fan of talents with big production, props, and dancing. I Furthermore, what I lacked in technical ability I made up for in lavish costuming, stage presence, and creativity. As in life, sometimes the things we are not good at or fall short of, can be made up with other attributes we possess. And to those judges that slapped my wrist and said to hang my dance shoes up…..well I have two OVERALL talent winner awards at home from the past two years from Miss Gay America….from talents that featured Jessica Jade the dancer!!! Haha. As I always say “YOU CAN BE ANYTHING YOU WANT TO BE”.
The past month has been a blast! I have been traveling as much as possible! My calendar is almost booked solid through March. I’m trying to promote MGA as much as possible before prelims start. If your local clubs would like to bring me in please contact me at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com. I would love to visit your cities and share MGA with you and yours!
Thanks to Sam Schisler, I was invited to participate in a show in Columbus, Ohio, themed “Royals”. The star studded show featured Miss Gay USofA , Shae Shae Lareese, Miss EOY, Raquel Lord, and Miss Continental, Naysha Lopez and yours truly. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t a bit nervous to entertain with such a talented group of artists!! I had the time of my life!!! Club Axis, Union Station, and a host of patrons and fans of female impersonation thoroughly treated us like “royals”. I have had the joy of working with Shae Shae and Raquel in the past and they were incredible as always! This was the first time I have ever worked with or met Miss Continental, Naysha. I have found a new sister! She was so personable and “real”. We talked about our goals and dreams for our reigns. She and I have a lot in common of how we want to be remembered and how to continue the legacies of our systems. She is a gem and will make a mark on the Continental system! Special thanks to the ever so talented Nina West for hosting our show and being the genuine superstar she is!!! Shout outs to Deva Station, Mark, Kenny, Cory, John Thacker, and Eric for taking care of us!!
While so many of us will coin ourselves an “America girl” or a “USA” girl, etc. I think it’s important for the sake of keeping the art form alive and thriving to support each respected system. It may not be your “cup of tea” to compete in a certain system for whatever reason, but we all are in this together and should accept each system for the positive attributes they add to the world of female impersonation. Each system is comprised of many talented formers, veteran contestants, and supporters that offer a special touch of uniqueness to the big picture. It is my hope to attend as many national contest this year to show my support to their cause and of course show off the MGA jewels!
This month I was also blessed with the joy of returning to Monroe, Louisiana to perform at Club Pink, followed by a 4 hour drive south to New Orleans to perform at The Bourbon Pub Parade. Two time MGA “Promoter of the year” winner David Green made it all possible. I had the pleasure to represent one of David’s three prelims two years ago at MGA as his Miss Gay Southern Elegance. David is an incredible person and promoter. He has an eye for detail and goes above and beyond to take care of you. I enjoyed getting to catch up with him and hear his hopes for the prelim season. Terry Eason, The T in “L and T” or as I call him “one of the Mr. Americas”, also joined us for our weekend. This was the first time he and I have seen each other since my winning MGA last month. Even though we have been talking weekly through phone, text, and email I was somewhat nervous to spend in person time with him. You always want to impress your boss and make them see you in the best possible light. Not even an hour into our catching up the nervousness subsided. Terry is one of “us”. He has such a great personality, a way with words, he’s funny and can be goofy. I’m excited to work alongside him and Larry the next year. Next month I get to spend some time with Larry as I head to Nashville for my “fathers/daughters weekend” to work on MGA business.
Special thanks to Club Pink, The Stick girls, Matthew Birkhoff, The Bourbon Pub, Dextaci, Marcia, Phillip, Theo, Dominique Delorean, Aubrey Synclaire, Mercedes Loreal, Josh, Bradley Latham, Stephen, Maya McNeil, Anastacia Davenport, and Persana for making me feel so welcomed!!!!
This month I also met the cast of Lifetime’s “Dance Moms”. My friend Devin works for a professional dance competition company based out of Virginia and has host Dance Moms during several dance competitions over the years. Devin arranged for me to meet Abbey Lee Miller and the rest of the cast. Abbey was excited for her girls to meet Miss Gay America and have me talk to them about MGA, my journey to the crown, and about not giving up on dreams. I have been a HUGE fan of the show since episode one, so meeting them in person was amazing! I hope the footage of my meeting them makes it to television as it was an awesome moment when Abbey surprised the girls in their dressing room with announcing me as “a different type of national title holder”. The girls and their moms were so excited to meet me and were inquisitive of the art form and MGA. After answering their questions and sharing my MGA story, I left the team with a gift. I gave them my Miss Gay Virginia Regional America crown from the very first year I competed at MGA. I told them the story about how horrible my experience was to MGA that year and how I vowed I would not return to pageantry. But, returned after a break to chase my dream and not giving up till it happened. I then told them, anytime they feel like they want to give up, or they can’t do another turn, or want to skip practice, to think back of the crown and to keep pushing and not give up. Meeting them was a high light of my career! If the meeting makes it to air, it will be episode 4 of Dance Moms which starts in January on Lifetime!!!
I have chosen three “Dear Jessica” questions to share with you this month. If you would like to submit a question to me…..Email me at Jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com by the 10th of the month to possibly be featured on the following months “Dear Jessica” section.
Dear Jessica #1
My name is Mark Shollenberger/Guadalupe del Fuego. I reside in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania and my pageantry fire has been re-lit. I have been doing female impersonation for the past 6 years and have competed at Miss Gay Pennsylvania America three times and those three times I was a top 5 finalist, just narrowly missing my chance to compete at MGA 2009, 2010, and 2011.
My questions for you are; how do you keep up your endurance during such a grueling and tiring week of pageantry? It's a lot for me to do preliminary night and then final night right in a row, but I can't imagine having to do it over a whole week like MGA does. I have health issues that prevent me from being able to dance like I used to, so now I've become more of a "theatrical" performer - bigger costumes, more dramatic music, less dance moves. What is your advice on keeping your endurance up and what would you recommend for a talent for someone who's got the Theatre Arts Bachelors Degree and is running out of ideas? I've done Chicago to the point of making people get highly annoyed (and I've hurt myself doing it countless times, but always had success with it), I've tried Cats with little success, I tried Man of La Mancha with moderate success. Do you think I could pull of something in the Top 40 music of the country (e.g. "Blown Away" by Carrie Underwood) and really blow it up into a theatrical production?
Thanks SO much. I'm so thrilled and honored to finally be able to write to you as Miss Gay America! I have followed you for quite some time and have always been thrilled to see how you consistently improved and changed your talents and gowns, etc.
Have a blessed day and I hope to hear from you soon!
Dear Mark,
Thank you for the sweet message! Congratulations on your placements at Miss PA and I wish you continued success in all you do! You are absolutely correct when stating that pageantry can be very grueling and hard on the body. My advice to you is to give 110% every time you rehearse, don’t “phone it in”. Rehearsing your talent full fledge each time will build your endurance and strength, making it easier to complete it with high energy beginning to end come the night it is put in front a judges panel. Also, during the days of competition, get as much rest as possible, eat well, and allow yourself “me time”. Take a walk or get coffee alone, just to give yourself a mental break from the crazy world of pageantry. Furthermore, to make your week less stressful, be as prepared as possible before you actually get to the contest, so you don’t have to stress over last minute issues. Have a team with you that supports you whole heartedly and believes in your vision and will be there when you need them and will help you achieve your goals without fail.
I understand your struggles with talent ideas, as I have been there before. I will say that if your Chicago scores well and you enjoy performing it , don’t let the fact you’ve done it over and over sway you from not using it. Sometimes it’s best to not” fix what is not broken”. However, if you want to tackle a new talent concept, choose one that represents you as an entertainer and that you can rehearse over and over and not get bored with. It sounds like you’re on the right path using your back ground in theater and the skills you possess. Testing your new talent on the prelim level is a good idea to see how others feel about it and how it scores, before committing to it for the national level.
Good luck!!!
Jessica
Dear Jessica #2
As a city preliminary promoter for two pageants in the Miss Gay America system, one of the largest challenges each year is selecting the right panel of judges. Some say veterans while others, like me, prefer "newbies". If you were selecting judges, what criteria would you look for in selecting the perfect panel of judges?
Thanks.
Joe Saputo
Co-promoter
Miss Gay Copper City America
Miss Gay Queen of the Desert America
Dear Joe,
First off, thank you for all you do for MGA and your contestants!!! As someone who has competed in MANY pageants over my 14 years of entertaining, I have been judged by many different panels made up of a wide range of different judges. I think when choosing a panel it is vital to choose judges who are qualified and versed in the world of female impersonation. It is important to remember your contestants have spent money to compete in your contest and they deserve to be judge by a panel that knows “what to look for”. Also, your panel should be totally unbiased, not favoring one contestant over another. If a contestant has strong ties to a particular judge, it may be of the best interest of your contest to not use that judge, if possible. You want your contestants to have a peace of mind that they have just as fair a chance as anyone else competing. I would also pick judges who have a great reputation in the community, judges who will follow all the rules, who take the honor to judge very serious, and pick judges who want to help others learn and grow within the system. As you know the scoring system for MGA is complex and designed to cover all facets of the female impersonator, but without a qualified judge to place those points, the system will not work. If I were a promoter I would pick a panel made up of a majority of judges who have positive experience/reputations judging within the system, with maybe one “newby” who is closely watched and trained to know what to judge and look for. Everyone has to start somewhere and with the proper training they could be a great asset to your panel. =)
I hope to meet you soon during my travels!
Jessica
Dear Jessica #3
Hi Jessica, I Hope you are having a wonderful experience so far as our nations Symbol of Excellence!!
My question to you is... In preparing for Miss Gay America, what is the best advice that you could give to me when it comes to transitioning from A State title holder into preparing for a National Title.
Thank you,
Louis
Cece Carrington
Dear Cece,
Thank you for the message! I am having a blast thus far as MGA and enjoying myself thoroughly!! If an entertainer has already reached the level of winning a state title or regional title securing a spot to a national pageant, he obviously is on the right track. The basic building blocks and tools are present. It is no secret that most competitors somewhat “hold back” on the preliminary level, then bring out the big guns at nationals. My advice for you or anyone who gains that stepping stone of a state/regional title is to use it to its full advantage. Book yourself as much as possible representing you title. The more you’re on stage, the more comfortable you will become and the more you can network, building a fan base and making a “name” for your persona. Plus, the more you work the more you can “beef” up your national package if you book smart and save. In all my years of competing I would try at best to always set aside in a separate savings account all my booking fees/tips from bookings to help finance my national pageant package. Work diligently with your promoter to prepare yourself for the next level or competition and do your best to promote your state / regional title. Even if you don’t win the “big one”, at least you will come home from nationals as your states symbol or excellence!!!! Every leg of the journey can be used to help you polish, grow, and learn your pageantry system more. Embrace the small achievements and rewards along the way and don’t get deterred by any setbacks. Remember, once you get to nationals you will be competing against the best of the best, and everyone is extremely hungry for the main prize….GO BIG!!!!!
Best of luck in all you do!!!
Jessica
In closing I would like to wish everyone a blessed Thanksgiving and Christmas Holiday. Count your blessings, pay homage to what you’re thankful for, and hopefully spend time with the ones that mean the most to you. I am excited to go home to the hills of West VA with my mom to visit the greater part of my family. This time of year has always been my favorite since I was very small. It seems like yesterday, I was trying my hardest to stay awake to hear Santa and the reindeer on the roof of my grandma’s house, hoping he would leave me a Teddy Ruxpin talking bear doll. Oh to be young again. =)
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
I know the road getting to nationals is very expensive, time consuming, and can be full of set -backs and disappointments. I urge all hopeful contestants to not procrastinate, choose a prelim, one that is the most financially feasible to get to and that works best with your schedule. While grand prize packages are always appreciated and useful, don’t let that be the sole decision maker for your choice. I never opted for one that offered the most money, but chose one whose promoter I connected with or had a great reputation within the industry. When you secure your spot to nationals, you and your promoter become a team and it’s vital that you have a great working relationship. The MGA system is made up of MANY great promoters that have been involved with MGA for years. They work tirelessly to ensure their contestants are taken care of and have the tools and support necessary to do their very best at nationals. I have been fortunate to have had some great promoters all my years while competing. Many of which I consider good friends. My hat is off to all our promoters!!! Without you, there would be no Miss Gay America! Please know that your hard work, dedication and service does not go unnoticed and that you are appreciated and respected. I am so honored and eager to work with all of you this year!!! Potential contestants should narrow down a list of possible prelims to compete at and reach out to those promoters and get a “feel” for them before making your final decision.
Another important step in preparing for nationals is setting a realistic budget. Don’t try to live above your means. I always practice if “I can’t make it happen myself, then I don’t count on it”. When I first started competing so many years ago I was in X-ray school and couldn’t afford huge production talents with professional dancers or thousands of dollars for gowns and costumes, that I dreamed of producing. I worked hard, I graduated college and gained employment with a leader in health care in my local community. I never slighted the “life of Billy” for “Jessica” and vice versa. I honestly think that’s why I have been successful on and off stage. It’s easy to get lost in the stars when you win titles or people fly you around the country, however it’s important to stay grounded and true to yourself. Never lose sight of where you are or where you want to be. Always take care of yourself and try to make decisions that are going to keep you moving steadily ahead to becoming successful. Successful can mean a multitude of things, not always financially. Your version of success is totally up to you!!! In a nut shell if it comes down to paying rent or buying a new gown… pay your rent!!! You have to have somewhere to live!!! =)
My last bit of advice for this month is to prepare your package while closely using the MGA scoring system as a guide to better your chance of obtaining the most possible points from every category. Read and study the category descriptions meticulously. The key is to make your package as clean, consistent, and precise as possible, while following the MGA guidelines of scoring. It may take some time to perfect your skills to gain the most possible points, but again work hard, study, polish, and be open to growing and learning. Another key is to not do things that are outside your skill set. Unfortunately, not all of us are born dancers. While most talent productions, be it main talent of solo talent, usually feature some sort of dancing, if you are not a dancer or able to “look” like one… try and find another option that will intrigue your judges, audience, and yourself! Throughout my years of competing I would have judges ask me “are you a trained dancer”? Obviously insinuating that I should have chosen a different talent. Although, I have never been professionally trained in the world of dance (please know I am envious of anyone who has achieved greatness in the art of dance) I am a dancer at heart!! Haha I made the decision to keep working and pushing myself to “look” like a dancer and learn the choreography, as I have always been a fan of talents with big production, props, and dancing. I Furthermore, what I lacked in technical ability I made up for in lavish costuming, stage presence, and creativity. As in life, sometimes the things we are not good at or fall short of, can be made up with other attributes we possess. And to those judges that slapped my wrist and said to hang my dance shoes up…..well I have two OVERALL talent winner awards at home from the past two years from Miss Gay America….from talents that featured Jessica Jade the dancer!!! Haha. As I always say “YOU CAN BE ANYTHING YOU WANT TO BE”.
The past month has been a blast! I have been traveling as much as possible! My calendar is almost booked solid through March. I’m trying to promote MGA as much as possible before prelims start. If your local clubs would like to bring me in please contact me at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com. I would love to visit your cities and share MGA with you and yours!
Thanks to Sam Schisler, I was invited to participate in a show in Columbus, Ohio, themed “Royals”. The star studded show featured Miss Gay USofA , Shae Shae Lareese, Miss EOY, Raquel Lord, and Miss Continental, Naysha Lopez and yours truly. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t a bit nervous to entertain with such a talented group of artists!! I had the time of my life!!! Club Axis, Union Station, and a host of patrons and fans of female impersonation thoroughly treated us like “royals”. I have had the joy of working with Shae Shae and Raquel in the past and they were incredible as always! This was the first time I have ever worked with or met Miss Continental, Naysha. I have found a new sister! She was so personable and “real”. We talked about our goals and dreams for our reigns. She and I have a lot in common of how we want to be remembered and how to continue the legacies of our systems. She is a gem and will make a mark on the Continental system! Special thanks to the ever so talented Nina West for hosting our show and being the genuine superstar she is!!! Shout outs to Deva Station, Mark, Kenny, Cory, John Thacker, and Eric for taking care of us!!
While so many of us will coin ourselves an “America girl” or a “USA” girl, etc. I think it’s important for the sake of keeping the art form alive and thriving to support each respected system. It may not be your “cup of tea” to compete in a certain system for whatever reason, but we all are in this together and should accept each system for the positive attributes they add to the world of female impersonation. Each system is comprised of many talented formers, veteran contestants, and supporters that offer a special touch of uniqueness to the big picture. It is my hope to attend as many national contest this year to show my support to their cause and of course show off the MGA jewels!
This month I was also blessed with the joy of returning to Monroe, Louisiana to perform at Club Pink, followed by a 4 hour drive south to New Orleans to perform at The Bourbon Pub Parade. Two time MGA “Promoter of the year” winner David Green made it all possible. I had the pleasure to represent one of David’s three prelims two years ago at MGA as his Miss Gay Southern Elegance. David is an incredible person and promoter. He has an eye for detail and goes above and beyond to take care of you. I enjoyed getting to catch up with him and hear his hopes for the prelim season. Terry Eason, The T in “L and T” or as I call him “one of the Mr. Americas”, also joined us for our weekend. This was the first time he and I have seen each other since my winning MGA last month. Even though we have been talking weekly through phone, text, and email I was somewhat nervous to spend in person time with him. You always want to impress your boss and make them see you in the best possible light. Not even an hour into our catching up the nervousness subsided. Terry is one of “us”. He has such a great personality, a way with words, he’s funny and can be goofy. I’m excited to work alongside him and Larry the next year. Next month I get to spend some time with Larry as I head to Nashville for my “fathers/daughters weekend” to work on MGA business.
Special thanks to Club Pink, The Stick girls, Matthew Birkhoff, The Bourbon Pub, Dextaci, Marcia, Phillip, Theo, Dominique Delorean, Aubrey Synclaire, Mercedes Loreal, Josh, Bradley Latham, Stephen, Maya McNeil, Anastacia Davenport, and Persana for making me feel so welcomed!!!!
This month I also met the cast of Lifetime’s “Dance Moms”. My friend Devin works for a professional dance competition company based out of Virginia and has host Dance Moms during several dance competitions over the years. Devin arranged for me to meet Abbey Lee Miller and the rest of the cast. Abbey was excited for her girls to meet Miss Gay America and have me talk to them about MGA, my journey to the crown, and about not giving up on dreams. I have been a HUGE fan of the show since episode one, so meeting them in person was amazing! I hope the footage of my meeting them makes it to television as it was an awesome moment when Abbey surprised the girls in their dressing room with announcing me as “a different type of national title holder”. The girls and their moms were so excited to meet me and were inquisitive of the art form and MGA. After answering their questions and sharing my MGA story, I left the team with a gift. I gave them my Miss Gay Virginia Regional America crown from the very first year I competed at MGA. I told them the story about how horrible my experience was to MGA that year and how I vowed I would not return to pageantry. But, returned after a break to chase my dream and not giving up till it happened. I then told them, anytime they feel like they want to give up, or they can’t do another turn, or want to skip practice, to think back of the crown and to keep pushing and not give up. Meeting them was a high light of my career! If the meeting makes it to air, it will be episode 4 of Dance Moms which starts in January on Lifetime!!!
I have chosen three “Dear Jessica” questions to share with you this month. If you would like to submit a question to me…..Email me at Jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com by the 10th of the month to possibly be featured on the following months “Dear Jessica” section.
Dear Jessica #1
My name is Mark Shollenberger/Guadalupe del Fuego. I reside in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania and my pageantry fire has been re-lit. I have been doing female impersonation for the past 6 years and have competed at Miss Gay Pennsylvania America three times and those three times I was a top 5 finalist, just narrowly missing my chance to compete at MGA 2009, 2010, and 2011.
My questions for you are; how do you keep up your endurance during such a grueling and tiring week of pageantry? It's a lot for me to do preliminary night and then final night right in a row, but I can't imagine having to do it over a whole week like MGA does. I have health issues that prevent me from being able to dance like I used to, so now I've become more of a "theatrical" performer - bigger costumes, more dramatic music, less dance moves. What is your advice on keeping your endurance up and what would you recommend for a talent for someone who's got the Theatre Arts Bachelors Degree and is running out of ideas? I've done Chicago to the point of making people get highly annoyed (and I've hurt myself doing it countless times, but always had success with it), I've tried Cats with little success, I tried Man of La Mancha with moderate success. Do you think I could pull of something in the Top 40 music of the country (e.g. "Blown Away" by Carrie Underwood) and really blow it up into a theatrical production?
Thanks SO much. I'm so thrilled and honored to finally be able to write to you as Miss Gay America! I have followed you for quite some time and have always been thrilled to see how you consistently improved and changed your talents and gowns, etc.
Have a blessed day and I hope to hear from you soon!
Dear Mark,
Thank you for the sweet message! Congratulations on your placements at Miss PA and I wish you continued success in all you do! You are absolutely correct when stating that pageantry can be very grueling and hard on the body. My advice to you is to give 110% every time you rehearse, don’t “phone it in”. Rehearsing your talent full fledge each time will build your endurance and strength, making it easier to complete it with high energy beginning to end come the night it is put in front a judges panel. Also, during the days of competition, get as much rest as possible, eat well, and allow yourself “me time”. Take a walk or get coffee alone, just to give yourself a mental break from the crazy world of pageantry. Furthermore, to make your week less stressful, be as prepared as possible before you actually get to the contest, so you don’t have to stress over last minute issues. Have a team with you that supports you whole heartedly and believes in your vision and will be there when you need them and will help you achieve your goals without fail.
I understand your struggles with talent ideas, as I have been there before. I will say that if your Chicago scores well and you enjoy performing it , don’t let the fact you’ve done it over and over sway you from not using it. Sometimes it’s best to not” fix what is not broken”. However, if you want to tackle a new talent concept, choose one that represents you as an entertainer and that you can rehearse over and over and not get bored with. It sounds like you’re on the right path using your back ground in theater and the skills you possess. Testing your new talent on the prelim level is a good idea to see how others feel about it and how it scores, before committing to it for the national level.
Good luck!!!
Jessica
Dear Jessica #2
As a city preliminary promoter for two pageants in the Miss Gay America system, one of the largest challenges each year is selecting the right panel of judges. Some say veterans while others, like me, prefer "newbies". If you were selecting judges, what criteria would you look for in selecting the perfect panel of judges?
Thanks.
Joe Saputo
Co-promoter
Miss Gay Copper City America
Miss Gay Queen of the Desert America
Dear Joe,
First off, thank you for all you do for MGA and your contestants!!! As someone who has competed in MANY pageants over my 14 years of entertaining, I have been judged by many different panels made up of a wide range of different judges. I think when choosing a panel it is vital to choose judges who are qualified and versed in the world of female impersonation. It is important to remember your contestants have spent money to compete in your contest and they deserve to be judge by a panel that knows “what to look for”. Also, your panel should be totally unbiased, not favoring one contestant over another. If a contestant has strong ties to a particular judge, it may be of the best interest of your contest to not use that judge, if possible. You want your contestants to have a peace of mind that they have just as fair a chance as anyone else competing. I would also pick judges who have a great reputation in the community, judges who will follow all the rules, who take the honor to judge very serious, and pick judges who want to help others learn and grow within the system. As you know the scoring system for MGA is complex and designed to cover all facets of the female impersonator, but without a qualified judge to place those points, the system will not work. If I were a promoter I would pick a panel made up of a majority of judges who have positive experience/reputations judging within the system, with maybe one “newby” who is closely watched and trained to know what to judge and look for. Everyone has to start somewhere and with the proper training they could be a great asset to your panel. =)
I hope to meet you soon during my travels!
Jessica
Dear Jessica #3
Hi Jessica, I Hope you are having a wonderful experience so far as our nations Symbol of Excellence!!
My question to you is... In preparing for Miss Gay America, what is the best advice that you could give to me when it comes to transitioning from A State title holder into preparing for a National Title.
Thank you,
Louis
Cece Carrington
Dear Cece,
Thank you for the message! I am having a blast thus far as MGA and enjoying myself thoroughly!! If an entertainer has already reached the level of winning a state title or regional title securing a spot to a national pageant, he obviously is on the right track. The basic building blocks and tools are present. It is no secret that most competitors somewhat “hold back” on the preliminary level, then bring out the big guns at nationals. My advice for you or anyone who gains that stepping stone of a state/regional title is to use it to its full advantage. Book yourself as much as possible representing you title. The more you’re on stage, the more comfortable you will become and the more you can network, building a fan base and making a “name” for your persona. Plus, the more you work the more you can “beef” up your national package if you book smart and save. In all my years of competing I would try at best to always set aside in a separate savings account all my booking fees/tips from bookings to help finance my national pageant package. Work diligently with your promoter to prepare yourself for the next level or competition and do your best to promote your state / regional title. Even if you don’t win the “big one”, at least you will come home from nationals as your states symbol or excellence!!!! Every leg of the journey can be used to help you polish, grow, and learn your pageantry system more. Embrace the small achievements and rewards along the way and don’t get deterred by any setbacks. Remember, once you get to nationals you will be competing against the best of the best, and everyone is extremely hungry for the main prize….GO BIG!!!!!
Best of luck in all you do!!!
Jessica
In closing I would like to wish everyone a blessed Thanksgiving and Christmas Holiday. Count your blessings, pay homage to what you’re thankful for, and hopefully spend time with the ones that mean the most to you. I am excited to go home to the hills of West VA with my mom to visit the greater part of my family. This time of year has always been my favorite since I was very small. It seems like yesterday, I was trying my hardest to stay awake to hear Santa and the reindeer on the roof of my grandma’s house, hoping he would leave me a Teddy Ruxpin talking bear doll. Oh to be young again. =)
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
January 2014
Happy New Year!!!!! I hope you all had an amazing holiday season and were able to spend time with those that mean the most to you!!! I was able to spend some quality time with my family in West Virginia and take a small break away from working and traveling. I've always loved this time of year and hate that it flies by so quickly!!! The month leading up to Christmas and the New Year was very busy for Miss America, but I wouldn't have it any other way!!!
I started the month off by traveling to Tulsa, Oklahoma to entertain at New Age Renegades. New Age Renegades is Forever MGA, Catia Lee Love's, old stomping ground. She has left her mark on the area, as everyone spoke so highly of her. This was no surprise to me, as Catia has always been a favorite MGA of mine. She continues to be heavily involved year after year promoting MGA on the preliminary level, as well as at the national pageant. I was met at the airport by the lovely Tabitha Taylor and the handsome Evan Devoe, who took me on a quick tour through the streets of Tulsa to my hotel. I enjoyed chatting with them about some Tulsa history, Tabitha’s trips to MGA in the past, and about the world of female impersonation in Tulsa. My hotel room was ultra-cute and the city of Tulsa was beautiful. Miss Tillie Lane, promoter for Miss Gay Oklahoma America, and the reigning Miss Gay Oklahoma, Bianca LeBlanc , were also in attendance to perform at Renegades. I just love spending time with Miss Tillie. I could listen to her speak about anything for hours. She is SO funny!!! It was also nice getting to know Bianca ("You gotta boyfriiiieeeennndddd???") as well as, she too is funny and sweet. Team Oklahoma was in full effect as James Williams, Rob Morrison, and Kelly Howell joined the ladies for our weekend. The show at Renegades was amazing! I was honored to work with Tabitha Taylor, Tillie, Bianca, Devon Blaine, and the ever so painted Londenn D Raine. The audience and the club staff treated us all so well! I can't wait to return!!!!!! Thank you all for an incredible time!!!!
My next trip for this month was to Nashville, Tennessee for my "fathers / daughters" weekend with Larry Tyger and Terry Eason! Larry's husband Chuck was also in attendance! The main purpose of this trip was to work on official MGA business. We went over tons of rules, regulations, scenarios that may arise throughout the year as I travel as MGA, scoring, and studied the history of MGA. I always knew there was so much more to being Miss Gay America, but whew!!!! Until it actually happens to you, you'll never fully understand just how much is involved. I was able to ask L/T questions I had always wondered about MGA and I now better understand just how big of a production MGA is every year along with all the behind the scene work that goes into making the national contest happen. I appreciate these two men more than they will ever know. How they do it, I will never know!!! They truly love MGA and work so hard to keep MGA at the forefront of pageantry. Besides working on MGA administrative duties and business, we were able to bond and get to know each other better. Larry and Terry are such cool guys! They love to laugh, crack jokes, pull pranks, and just live! I probably gained 10 pounds while visiting them that weekend. We enjoyed several meals out at places such as The Melting Pot and Ellendales. Ellendales is a cute restaurant in Nashville that is owned by Julie, one of Larry and Chuck’s good friends. She judged Miss Mid America last year and sponsored lunch at that pageant’s registration. She is beautiful inside and out!!! Terry even cooked us all breakfast one morning, very yummy!!!! We visited the Grand Ole Opry hotel and took a river boat ride inside the hotel to gaze at all the hotels Christmas decorations! Absolutely breathtaking!!! We also watched Miss Gay America videos from the years Catia won and Luscious won. I LOVED getting to see so many of the entertainers I love and respect from years past on the videos. The MGA history is so rich with many amazing artists and I am extremely humbled to be a part of this family. My trip to Nashville flew by, but I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Larry, Terry, Chuck, and Madea (Larry and Chuck’s evil kitten). I look forward to getting to know these gentlemen better and building on the legacy of MGA together!
This month I also traveled to Charlotte, NC to visit one of my favorite clubs, Scorpios! I was honored to entertain alongside Miss Model Inc.,-Millenium Snow, MI artist- Calvin Bryson, and the hilarious- Tiffany Storm. Thank you Brian and Tiffany for always welcoming me into your club and for everything you do for the art form and Miss Gay America!!! My crazy friend Frankie aka Biscuits joined me for this trip. Traveling alone can be killing at times, so having an extra set of hands, and ears to listen, or even someone to share a meal with can make the difference. Trust me we have shared a many a meal over the years!!! Biscuits and I always have fun together, as long as we stay out of mischief! Lol
My next stop this month was to a "home away from home". Godfreys in Richmond, Virginia. Performing at Godfreys has always been a favorite time of mine. Jeff Willis, Jack, Jeff, Michael, Brian and all the staff are a hoot and work so hard to run a tight ship, providing a high energy, crowd pleasing show! This particular brunch show was made up of my "Nana" , six time national title holder, Chelsea Pearl, the lovely Chantennah Spaulding, and the birthday girl, Enya Salad!!! We had a great time and I was so proud to return to Godfreys as Miss Gay America. I am a former Miss Godfreys, and the club has always supported my dream to be MGA for so many years. I can't wait to return in February!! Especially to pick up some new fashions by Jeff Willis!!!!
My last trip this month to entertain was to Charleston, WV to visit another "home away from home", The Broadway! Biscuits joined me this trip as well. This time he was included with the show cast to entertain, as his alter ego, Destiny Jade. Michelle St. James, Katrina Fox, and the legend Vicki Williams joined us for a great show! Roxy Rich, Tiffany, Paul, Nickoluas, Jeremiah, Eve, and Kevin made for a wonderful visit to Charleston, as always!!
Next month I will be traveling back to New Orleans , to Raleigh, NC, Greensboro, NC, St. Louis, Missouri, and celebrating my 33rd birthday!!! Busy month ahead!!!
I have chosen three “Ask Jessica” questions to share with you this month. If you have a question you would like to submit to me, please email me at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com by the 10th of the month, to be featured on that months “Jade in America”.
Dear Jessica,
I'm excited about running next year for a preliminary for miss pa America. I'm looking to buy an evening gown for it, but I have no idea who to buy off or where to go to get one. Also I don't even know what the judges are looking for. Some say all fabric, some say all beaded. If you can please help me out that would be absolutely amazing!
Thank you so much,
Bryan aka Trinity Del Furgo
Dear Bryan/Trinity,
Thank you for the email and your interest in PA America and MGA!!! When shopping for or designing a gown for evening gown competition it’s important to remember you are shopping for what looks best on YOU!! Some gown designs don't look good on all body types. For example if you have big muscular arms, then you most likely would not want to choose a gown that is sleeveless. You want to pick a design that is going to make you look your ultimate best, looking feminine and at ease while you model. As far as choosing a beaded gown or all fabric gowns, that choice is up to you. It's vital to remember that the fit and condition should be perfect and pick a color that compliments your skin tone. It's also important to remember during the evening competition category you are being judged not only on the gown its self but also the shoes, hair, make up, jewelry, the way you model, your smile, and the overall look. Depending on your budget, there are many options as to where you can purchase a gown or have one custom made for you. If you want to purchase a used gown, there are many "Drag swap" type sites you can shop on. Just use caution on making sure the seller has a great customer service rating and that the gown is in good condition and it will fit you RIGHT. I personally have used Jimy Wang of China for all my competition style gowns and costumes. I have been successful with everything he has made me. If you are interested in reaching out to him, his email is jimywang168@hotmail.com. Tell him I sent you!!!! While preparing for PA America study the gown category description and try to enhance your gown presentation to maximize the points you can obtain!!
Best wishes!
Jessica
Hello Jessica!
First of all Congratulations on your win at Miss Gay America I was there the whole week and it was a time of my life. Watching your first coupling months of your reign is very inspiring and I wish you well for the duration of your reign. The Miss Gay America I experienced solidified my decision in competing in pageantry and my love for female impersonation and the Miss Gay America system. I plan on competing in Miss Gay Arkansas this year. What would be some advice that you would give to a newcomer that has the drive and passion and wants to win this prestigious title in his first year of competition.
Thank You!
Christian Howard
Dear Christian,
Thank you for the message and for following my journey as MGA!!! I am honored that my being MGA has inspired you in some way to get your feet wet in the MGA system!!! I always say "You can be anything you want to be". If you truly want to be Miss Arkansas, you can be it! It is possible to win it your first attempt, if you are truly polished and prepared. However, please be mindful that they will be other girls competing as well that want it just as bad as you do. So, you have to work hard, believe in yourself, and follow the scoring guidelines of MGA as closely as possible to obtain the most possible points during competition. Don't let the fact that you have never competed before kill your confidence, as I said if you are truly prepared and ready, it could happen. It is important to remember if you do not win, to not give up. Learn from the mistakes you may make, polish, grown within the system, ask questions, listen to what MGA and the judges tell you during critiques, keep a positive attitude, and never give up. I look forward to seeing what you bring to Miss Arkansas and if you have any questions or need any advice of direction, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me!!!!
Best wishes!
Jessica
Jessica!
Congratulations, once again! You know I'm so proud of you. Your year as MGA has been much anticipated and I know you won't let your supporters or the MGA legacy down.
My question is about evening gown. You consistently placed very high in this category and I know, as a contestant, much thought goes into modeling, hair and makeup looks, and accessories but what about the dress? You have made it known that you have a designer's eye having won evening gown category in your own designs, but how does your dream dress translate to an expert who is skilled enough to produce it? How do you choose? How can you trust that expert? What did you do with Jimmy and other gown/costume experts?
Much Love,
Tajma Stetson
Dear Tajma,
First off, let me say that we miss you and your bubbly personality at MGA and I along with many anticipate your return! I would love for you to return this year as a contestant, as I feel you will add a special touch to the contestant pool!!! You are absolutely right about the gown category being about the overall presentation, not just the gown itself. All the components make up the final picture/presentation and if one covers all the facets while staying close to the MGA guideline of scoring, he should score well. As you mentioned, I have been lucky in gown competition for the greater part of my competition years. For the most part I have designed all my gowns from scratch. I may have seen a gown or a part of a gown that I liked and incorporated that detail into a design that I created, or a color combination, cut, pattern, etc. The thing to remember is to design a gown that looks best on you. Not all gown designs look good all body types. Picking or designing a gown that fits and makes you look your best is the key to success. As well as color, cut, texture, fabric choice, hair style, accessories, and your ability to model and look at ease on stage. As for my success with designer Jimy Wang, I am extremely detailed when sending him my sketches and designs. I am very specific from everything from lining materials, zippers, fabric materials, to beading patterns. I also make sure that I have my professional seamstress do my measurements for him by his measurements chart needs. I have been very fortunate to have ready to wear garments from him when they arrive with little to no altering necessary, making it easy to return time after time for my pageant needs. If I can help you in any way to achieve your dream dress, please reach out to me and I will help you anyway I possibly can!!!
Miss you!
Jessica
As we enter into 2014, I'm sure many of you have proclaimed New Year's resolutions, some realistic, some probably not!!! haha Nonetheless, I wish you success in your hopes and dreams for the New Year!!! I too, have several hopes and thoughts for the New Year, one of which I would like to share with you this month. It is to be a part of a charity. Since winning Miss Gay America I have been researching many different charities and organizations in hopes to finding one that “spoke to me”. Last month I found my calling. I have chosen to align myself with Stand for the Silent. Stand for the Silent is an anti-bullying organization that was created in 2010 by a class of outward bound students from The Oklahoma State University. This group came together after a 11 year old little boy by the name of Ty Smalley committed suicide after being bullied for 2 years relentlessly at school. Ty's parents Kirk and Laura have become the spokespersons for this group and travel ALL OVER the country and the world to schools and communities doing presentations to draw attention to the effects of bullying, sharing their story and offering education and tools that will prevent their tragedy from happening to another child or family. Kirk and Laura have even met with President Obama and First Lady Michelle, Lady Gaga, and executives from the cartoon network, and Facebook in hopes to raise awareness to bullying and the devastation it causes. Furthermore, they are working diligently to fight for legislation change concerning bullying. I have been in talks with Kirk Smalley and look forward to working with him, his wife, and the Stand for the Silent organization as much as I possibly can this year to help them in any way I can.
As a gay man, I can say I was blessed to not be bullied or picked on too much while I was growing up or even in my adult years. However, there were times when I felt isolated, embarrassed, or left out because I was different from what the bulk of what society considers “normal”. Call me lucky, that I wasn’t tortured or taunted like so many young kids are today for not meeting the “mold”. It is my hope that one day people will be judged on their morals, values, character, and their personality traits, NOT by the things they can’t change. It saddens me, especially that our young have to deal with nonsense such as bullying when it’s hard enough already just going to school. I hope that one day it will end and focus can be kept on getting an education and graduating school/college, gaining employment and becoming positive contributing members to society.
Another factor that drew me to SFTS was its association with suicide. (Even typing the word just now makes me feel some kind of way). As many of you know, my father passed away this past May. What you may not know, it was by suicide. My father, like so many suffered from severe depression, alcoholism, and feelings of self-worthlessness. Even though my Dad had his demons, he was a good person that gave anything he had to others. He always kept those around him laughing and would do anything for anyone who needed him. Unfortunately, behind closed doors he lived a life of torture and ultimately ended his own life to escape it. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about him and wonder “what if only” …. I refuse to let his way of death be his defining moment and I’m not embarrassed to say how he died. At one time in my life I thought suicide was a coward’s way out or that people who would chose to die such a way were crazy. Today, I understand that sometimes this life becomes too much for some, and the only way they feel they can cope, or deal, is to end it. Can you imagine feeling so low; to end this precious gift we call life?? Imagine being 8, 9. Or even 6 years old and feeling that way? Kirk and Laura share stories of kids that young who have committed or contemplated suicide. There is help out there. There is hope. There is no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed. The stigma surrounding suicide has to end, in order for those suffering, to feel comfortable to reach out for help.
PLEASE visit www.standforthesilent.org to learn more about this wonderful organization and if you can, please make a donation to help them continue to be able to travel the country and world even, spreading their message! As I told Kirk, after watching one of his presentations, I caught myself second thinking a thought I may have toward someone that looked different or acted different than I am. His presentation really struck a chord within me and makes me more cognizant to my thoughts and actions, as he says “you never know what someone may be going through and what you may say could……….” I like no one am perfect, but we all can try to be better people, and make better decisions. You never know, you may save someone life one day just by saying something nice in a time that they need it more than ever.
Also follow Stand for the Silent of Facebook and twitter!!!
Happy New Year!!! Make this one ….the best one yet!!!
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
I started the month off by traveling to Tulsa, Oklahoma to entertain at New Age Renegades. New Age Renegades is Forever MGA, Catia Lee Love's, old stomping ground. She has left her mark on the area, as everyone spoke so highly of her. This was no surprise to me, as Catia has always been a favorite MGA of mine. She continues to be heavily involved year after year promoting MGA on the preliminary level, as well as at the national pageant. I was met at the airport by the lovely Tabitha Taylor and the handsome Evan Devoe, who took me on a quick tour through the streets of Tulsa to my hotel. I enjoyed chatting with them about some Tulsa history, Tabitha’s trips to MGA in the past, and about the world of female impersonation in Tulsa. My hotel room was ultra-cute and the city of Tulsa was beautiful. Miss Tillie Lane, promoter for Miss Gay Oklahoma America, and the reigning Miss Gay Oklahoma, Bianca LeBlanc , were also in attendance to perform at Renegades. I just love spending time with Miss Tillie. I could listen to her speak about anything for hours. She is SO funny!!! It was also nice getting to know Bianca ("You gotta boyfriiiieeeennndddd???") as well as, she too is funny and sweet. Team Oklahoma was in full effect as James Williams, Rob Morrison, and Kelly Howell joined the ladies for our weekend. The show at Renegades was amazing! I was honored to work with Tabitha Taylor, Tillie, Bianca, Devon Blaine, and the ever so painted Londenn D Raine. The audience and the club staff treated us all so well! I can't wait to return!!!!!! Thank you all for an incredible time!!!!
My next trip for this month was to Nashville, Tennessee for my "fathers / daughters" weekend with Larry Tyger and Terry Eason! Larry's husband Chuck was also in attendance! The main purpose of this trip was to work on official MGA business. We went over tons of rules, regulations, scenarios that may arise throughout the year as I travel as MGA, scoring, and studied the history of MGA. I always knew there was so much more to being Miss Gay America, but whew!!!! Until it actually happens to you, you'll never fully understand just how much is involved. I was able to ask L/T questions I had always wondered about MGA and I now better understand just how big of a production MGA is every year along with all the behind the scene work that goes into making the national contest happen. I appreciate these two men more than they will ever know. How they do it, I will never know!!! They truly love MGA and work so hard to keep MGA at the forefront of pageantry. Besides working on MGA administrative duties and business, we were able to bond and get to know each other better. Larry and Terry are such cool guys! They love to laugh, crack jokes, pull pranks, and just live! I probably gained 10 pounds while visiting them that weekend. We enjoyed several meals out at places such as The Melting Pot and Ellendales. Ellendales is a cute restaurant in Nashville that is owned by Julie, one of Larry and Chuck’s good friends. She judged Miss Mid America last year and sponsored lunch at that pageant’s registration. She is beautiful inside and out!!! Terry even cooked us all breakfast one morning, very yummy!!!! We visited the Grand Ole Opry hotel and took a river boat ride inside the hotel to gaze at all the hotels Christmas decorations! Absolutely breathtaking!!! We also watched Miss Gay America videos from the years Catia won and Luscious won. I LOVED getting to see so many of the entertainers I love and respect from years past on the videos. The MGA history is so rich with many amazing artists and I am extremely humbled to be a part of this family. My trip to Nashville flew by, but I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Larry, Terry, Chuck, and Madea (Larry and Chuck’s evil kitten). I look forward to getting to know these gentlemen better and building on the legacy of MGA together!
This month I also traveled to Charlotte, NC to visit one of my favorite clubs, Scorpios! I was honored to entertain alongside Miss Model Inc.,-Millenium Snow, MI artist- Calvin Bryson, and the hilarious- Tiffany Storm. Thank you Brian and Tiffany for always welcoming me into your club and for everything you do for the art form and Miss Gay America!!! My crazy friend Frankie aka Biscuits joined me for this trip. Traveling alone can be killing at times, so having an extra set of hands, and ears to listen, or even someone to share a meal with can make the difference. Trust me we have shared a many a meal over the years!!! Biscuits and I always have fun together, as long as we stay out of mischief! Lol
My next stop this month was to a "home away from home". Godfreys in Richmond, Virginia. Performing at Godfreys has always been a favorite time of mine. Jeff Willis, Jack, Jeff, Michael, Brian and all the staff are a hoot and work so hard to run a tight ship, providing a high energy, crowd pleasing show! This particular brunch show was made up of my "Nana" , six time national title holder, Chelsea Pearl, the lovely Chantennah Spaulding, and the birthday girl, Enya Salad!!! We had a great time and I was so proud to return to Godfreys as Miss Gay America. I am a former Miss Godfreys, and the club has always supported my dream to be MGA for so many years. I can't wait to return in February!! Especially to pick up some new fashions by Jeff Willis!!!!
My last trip this month to entertain was to Charleston, WV to visit another "home away from home", The Broadway! Biscuits joined me this trip as well. This time he was included with the show cast to entertain, as his alter ego, Destiny Jade. Michelle St. James, Katrina Fox, and the legend Vicki Williams joined us for a great show! Roxy Rich, Tiffany, Paul, Nickoluas, Jeremiah, Eve, and Kevin made for a wonderful visit to Charleston, as always!!
Next month I will be traveling back to New Orleans , to Raleigh, NC, Greensboro, NC, St. Louis, Missouri, and celebrating my 33rd birthday!!! Busy month ahead!!!
I have chosen three “Ask Jessica” questions to share with you this month. If you have a question you would like to submit to me, please email me at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com by the 10th of the month, to be featured on that months “Jade in America”.
Dear Jessica,
I'm excited about running next year for a preliminary for miss pa America. I'm looking to buy an evening gown for it, but I have no idea who to buy off or where to go to get one. Also I don't even know what the judges are looking for. Some say all fabric, some say all beaded. If you can please help me out that would be absolutely amazing!
Thank you so much,
Bryan aka Trinity Del Furgo
Dear Bryan/Trinity,
Thank you for the email and your interest in PA America and MGA!!! When shopping for or designing a gown for evening gown competition it’s important to remember you are shopping for what looks best on YOU!! Some gown designs don't look good on all body types. For example if you have big muscular arms, then you most likely would not want to choose a gown that is sleeveless. You want to pick a design that is going to make you look your ultimate best, looking feminine and at ease while you model. As far as choosing a beaded gown or all fabric gowns, that choice is up to you. It's vital to remember that the fit and condition should be perfect and pick a color that compliments your skin tone. It's also important to remember during the evening competition category you are being judged not only on the gown its self but also the shoes, hair, make up, jewelry, the way you model, your smile, and the overall look. Depending on your budget, there are many options as to where you can purchase a gown or have one custom made for you. If you want to purchase a used gown, there are many "Drag swap" type sites you can shop on. Just use caution on making sure the seller has a great customer service rating and that the gown is in good condition and it will fit you RIGHT. I personally have used Jimy Wang of China for all my competition style gowns and costumes. I have been successful with everything he has made me. If you are interested in reaching out to him, his email is jimywang168@hotmail.com. Tell him I sent you!!!! While preparing for PA America study the gown category description and try to enhance your gown presentation to maximize the points you can obtain!!
Best wishes!
Jessica
Hello Jessica!
First of all Congratulations on your win at Miss Gay America I was there the whole week and it was a time of my life. Watching your first coupling months of your reign is very inspiring and I wish you well for the duration of your reign. The Miss Gay America I experienced solidified my decision in competing in pageantry and my love for female impersonation and the Miss Gay America system. I plan on competing in Miss Gay Arkansas this year. What would be some advice that you would give to a newcomer that has the drive and passion and wants to win this prestigious title in his first year of competition.
Thank You!
Christian Howard
Dear Christian,
Thank you for the message and for following my journey as MGA!!! I am honored that my being MGA has inspired you in some way to get your feet wet in the MGA system!!! I always say "You can be anything you want to be". If you truly want to be Miss Arkansas, you can be it! It is possible to win it your first attempt, if you are truly polished and prepared. However, please be mindful that they will be other girls competing as well that want it just as bad as you do. So, you have to work hard, believe in yourself, and follow the scoring guidelines of MGA as closely as possible to obtain the most possible points during competition. Don't let the fact that you have never competed before kill your confidence, as I said if you are truly prepared and ready, it could happen. It is important to remember if you do not win, to not give up. Learn from the mistakes you may make, polish, grown within the system, ask questions, listen to what MGA and the judges tell you during critiques, keep a positive attitude, and never give up. I look forward to seeing what you bring to Miss Arkansas and if you have any questions or need any advice of direction, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me!!!!
Best wishes!
Jessica
Jessica!
Congratulations, once again! You know I'm so proud of you. Your year as MGA has been much anticipated and I know you won't let your supporters or the MGA legacy down.
My question is about evening gown. You consistently placed very high in this category and I know, as a contestant, much thought goes into modeling, hair and makeup looks, and accessories but what about the dress? You have made it known that you have a designer's eye having won evening gown category in your own designs, but how does your dream dress translate to an expert who is skilled enough to produce it? How do you choose? How can you trust that expert? What did you do with Jimmy and other gown/costume experts?
Much Love,
Tajma Stetson
Dear Tajma,
First off, let me say that we miss you and your bubbly personality at MGA and I along with many anticipate your return! I would love for you to return this year as a contestant, as I feel you will add a special touch to the contestant pool!!! You are absolutely right about the gown category being about the overall presentation, not just the gown itself. All the components make up the final picture/presentation and if one covers all the facets while staying close to the MGA guideline of scoring, he should score well. As you mentioned, I have been lucky in gown competition for the greater part of my competition years. For the most part I have designed all my gowns from scratch. I may have seen a gown or a part of a gown that I liked and incorporated that detail into a design that I created, or a color combination, cut, pattern, etc. The thing to remember is to design a gown that looks best on you. Not all gown designs look good all body types. Picking or designing a gown that fits and makes you look your best is the key to success. As well as color, cut, texture, fabric choice, hair style, accessories, and your ability to model and look at ease on stage. As for my success with designer Jimy Wang, I am extremely detailed when sending him my sketches and designs. I am very specific from everything from lining materials, zippers, fabric materials, to beading patterns. I also make sure that I have my professional seamstress do my measurements for him by his measurements chart needs. I have been very fortunate to have ready to wear garments from him when they arrive with little to no altering necessary, making it easy to return time after time for my pageant needs. If I can help you in any way to achieve your dream dress, please reach out to me and I will help you anyway I possibly can!!!
Miss you!
Jessica
As we enter into 2014, I'm sure many of you have proclaimed New Year's resolutions, some realistic, some probably not!!! haha Nonetheless, I wish you success in your hopes and dreams for the New Year!!! I too, have several hopes and thoughts for the New Year, one of which I would like to share with you this month. It is to be a part of a charity. Since winning Miss Gay America I have been researching many different charities and organizations in hopes to finding one that “spoke to me”. Last month I found my calling. I have chosen to align myself with Stand for the Silent. Stand for the Silent is an anti-bullying organization that was created in 2010 by a class of outward bound students from The Oklahoma State University. This group came together after a 11 year old little boy by the name of Ty Smalley committed suicide after being bullied for 2 years relentlessly at school. Ty's parents Kirk and Laura have become the spokespersons for this group and travel ALL OVER the country and the world to schools and communities doing presentations to draw attention to the effects of bullying, sharing their story and offering education and tools that will prevent their tragedy from happening to another child or family. Kirk and Laura have even met with President Obama and First Lady Michelle, Lady Gaga, and executives from the cartoon network, and Facebook in hopes to raise awareness to bullying and the devastation it causes. Furthermore, they are working diligently to fight for legislation change concerning bullying. I have been in talks with Kirk Smalley and look forward to working with him, his wife, and the Stand for the Silent organization as much as I possibly can this year to help them in any way I can.
As a gay man, I can say I was blessed to not be bullied or picked on too much while I was growing up or even in my adult years. However, there were times when I felt isolated, embarrassed, or left out because I was different from what the bulk of what society considers “normal”. Call me lucky, that I wasn’t tortured or taunted like so many young kids are today for not meeting the “mold”. It is my hope that one day people will be judged on their morals, values, character, and their personality traits, NOT by the things they can’t change. It saddens me, especially that our young have to deal with nonsense such as bullying when it’s hard enough already just going to school. I hope that one day it will end and focus can be kept on getting an education and graduating school/college, gaining employment and becoming positive contributing members to society.
Another factor that drew me to SFTS was its association with suicide. (Even typing the word just now makes me feel some kind of way). As many of you know, my father passed away this past May. What you may not know, it was by suicide. My father, like so many suffered from severe depression, alcoholism, and feelings of self-worthlessness. Even though my Dad had his demons, he was a good person that gave anything he had to others. He always kept those around him laughing and would do anything for anyone who needed him. Unfortunately, behind closed doors he lived a life of torture and ultimately ended his own life to escape it. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about him and wonder “what if only” …. I refuse to let his way of death be his defining moment and I’m not embarrassed to say how he died. At one time in my life I thought suicide was a coward’s way out or that people who would chose to die such a way were crazy. Today, I understand that sometimes this life becomes too much for some, and the only way they feel they can cope, or deal, is to end it. Can you imagine feeling so low; to end this precious gift we call life?? Imagine being 8, 9. Or even 6 years old and feeling that way? Kirk and Laura share stories of kids that young who have committed or contemplated suicide. There is help out there. There is hope. There is no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed. The stigma surrounding suicide has to end, in order for those suffering, to feel comfortable to reach out for help.
PLEASE visit www.standforthesilent.org to learn more about this wonderful organization and if you can, please make a donation to help them continue to be able to travel the country and world even, spreading their message! As I told Kirk, after watching one of his presentations, I caught myself second thinking a thought I may have toward someone that looked different or acted different than I am. His presentation really struck a chord within me and makes me more cognizant to my thoughts and actions, as he says “you never know what someone may be going through and what you may say could……….” I like no one am perfect, but we all can try to be better people, and make better decisions. You never know, you may save someone life one day just by saying something nice in a time that they need it more than ever.
Also follow Stand for the Silent of Facebook and twitter!!!
Happy New Year!!! Make this one ….the best one yet!!!
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
February 2014
Greetings!! I hope you all made a smooth transition from 2013 into 2014 and got a jump start on making this New Year the best one yet!!! While most celebrate the start of the New Year on January 1st, for me my New Year always started post Miss Gay America week of competition. Funny as that may sound, it’s true. During all my years of competing for Miss Gay America, everything I did throughout the year lead up to the national pageant. All the traveling promoting my illusion, all the hours of working overtime to help finance my pageant package , and all the sacrifices were yearlong testaments to my journey to become Miss Gay America. So, now that the dream came true you would think I would celebrate the “true” New Year holiday big, not so much! For the first time in many years I did not ring in the New Year with friends, but picked up a shift at the hospital to save vacation time for my MGA travels. The pageant season is sizing up to be one of the busiest ones in years, as new preliminaries are coming out of the wood work!!! I urge all prospective contestants to not procrastinate and start narrowing down your top picks for prelims and begin preparing your packages early. The “ladies” are hungrier than ever for the job of Miss Gay America and from the text, emails, calls, and Facebook messages, it’s evident that this year there will be a fierce battle to the crown!!! As always, to my potential contestants, don’t hesitate to reach out to me for anything. I am here for you and thoroughly enjoy hearing from you. I waited for this moment for so many years and I want to capture the very essence of being MGA not only in the spot light but also behind the scenes helping fellow artists get to the “next level”.
This month I have had the pleasure to travel to some of my favorite places and visit with old friends and make many new ones. My first trip this month was back to the city where I was crowned Miss Gay America 2014, St. Louis!! Chad Johnson and Curt Godier, the promoters for Illinois America made the trip possible! This weekend was arranged to kickoff Illinois America for the upcoming pageant season. Due to inclement weather my trip was postponed by a day, but once I finally made it to St. Louis, again after flight delays, MGA festivities were in full effect. Chad and Kurt met me at the airport, rushed me to “Rehab” to get ready for the show that included Mariah Candy, Victoria Rose, Janessa Highland, Jazzelle Boyette, and Miss Gay Illnois America, Diva Coppafeel! I had a GREAT time performing with the girls and the Rehab staff and patrons were amazing!!! Chad and Curt also fundraised money for my charity “Stand for the Silent”, which will be added to the savings, which I will present to Kirk Smiley (spokesperson for SFTS) at the end of my reign. Also, Diva did a special number for me that had voice overs from many of my Forever MGA sisters and DC promoter Robert York!!! It was so well executed and thoughtful!! I loved it!!
After the show Chad, along with Illinois city promoter, James Metcalf, Josh Brown, Jazzelle, and Diva took me on a tour of the “gay district” of St. Louis. We visited several clubs. The DJ’s at every club announced that Miss Gay America, Jessica Jade was “in the house”. Very VIP, if I must say so myself. Oh!! The perks! We ended the night with breakfast at Bill’s pancake house, and then Chad took me back to his home to repack and then straight back to the airport. Chad and Curt had decorated their extra bedroom with tons of framed pictures from my crowing at MGA this past year and snacks!! So sweet!! I was in St. Louis for roughly 11 hrs, but in that short time I had so much fun and was reminded of how blessed I am to be living this dream. The kindness that people are showing me all over the country humbles me and I am so grateful for this experience. I am still shocked that this happening to me!!! Shout outs to Trixie Larue, Colin Murphy, and Marty for stopping by Rehab while I was visiting!!
My next visit was to one of my favorite places to perform, Warehouse 29 in Greensboro, NC!!! The cast that night included the multi- talented Versage, Alexis Starr Brooks, and Santonio. Forever MGA -Tiffany Bonet, Big Shirli, Jessica O’brien, Paisley, Hollywood, Ava, Eden, DJ Bonet, and so many of the local girls came out to support the show!! After the show was over and the bar closed Raven Wood, Kent (owner of W29), Kelly Rae, Versage, DJ Kimo, Arcasia Xavier and myself ordered pizza and wings and gathered around a fireplace at the club. We had a great time chatting and catching up with each other sharing stories and reminiscing. Thank you ladies and guys for such a special night!
My next stop I returned to Legends Nightclub in Raleigh, NC!!! I am a former Miss Legends and have always respected the caliber of entertainment that Legends produces weekly in their beautiful show bar. The star studded cast consisted of me, my “maw” Dana St. James, Former Miss NC America- Emory Starr, and Forever MGA’s Coti Collins and Kirby Kolby! This show was truly a show to not be missed! The energy on stage and in the audience was incredible!!! That night reminded me of why I choose to entertain in the art form. The patrons of Legends treated all of us like stars!! It was not only an honor but a privilege to work with this cast as they are pioneers in the industry and so inspiring. I cannot wait to return!!!!! Special thanks for Biscuits and Arcasia for joining me this trip!! Also it was so good seeing Jeff Coble, Cassie, Marylyn, Paul, Amaya, Lindsey Starr, Jackie O’Knight, Diana Prince, Michelle Warren, and so many other friends!!!!
While in Raleigh I was able to meet up with the photographer that did my official MGA headshots and have another photo shoot! The main focus of this meeting was to get a great promo for my charity “Stand for the Silent”. We also did several looks which we will share with you throughout the year. Thank you Mikey Palmisano Photography, Kevin, and Alicia for all your hard work at the shoot! You guys are amazing and are genuinely good people. Stay tuned as I will be announcing very soon some great news about Stand for the Silent!!! I meet with the VP of my hospital’s Human Resources department to arrange a week tour in my hometown for SFTS to visit and do presentations as several local schools to help in drawing awareness to the effects and devastation bullying causes!
Next month I am set to travel to Charlottesville, VA to Club Impulse, Godfreys in Richmond, VA, The Park in Roanoke, VA, Club Chemistry in Greensboro, NC and to West Virginia for my Grandpa’s 75th surprise birthday party, where I’ll be in charge of decorations. After winning MGA in October, the local newspaper did an article on my winning, which covered the front and back page of the extra section. I remember my VERY Christian grandpa seeing it and saying “well… if you’re going to do anything in life, then do it big!!!”
On January 21st I celebrated my 33rd birthday. I usually have a big party and invite my co- workers from the hospital and friends inside and outside the art form. However, this year with all my traveling, working two jobs, and all my MGA duties, I just didn’t have the time to prepare a huge party like years past. At the last moment my co-workers talked me into a dinner at a Japanese steakhouse where the chefs prepare the food in front of you as a show. We had so much fun, as we as a group are quite the “entertainers”. I am very fortunate to work with a supportive group of co-workers that are excepting of people and things that are not their “norm”. It has been a silent mission for me to change the opinions or beliefs of those who do not live the life we do, to somewhat better understand what exactly it is that we do. I love nothing more than winning over those who were at one time sketched out or uncomfortable around gay people, much less female impersonators. The world is slowly progressing every day to be more open minded and accepting of difference. Are you doing your part to keep the progression moving steadily ahead in a positive direction???
This month I have chosen two “Dear Jessica’s” to share with you. If you would like to be featured next month in the “Dear Jessica” section of my newsletter, please submit your question by the 10th of the month to jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com.
Dear Jessica Jade
My question is what advice would you give to a new queen that's up and coming in her drag career and is about to compete in her first pageant.
XOXO JESSICA ST.JAMES
Dear Jessica, (Love the name)
Let me start by welcoming you to wild and crazy world of female impersonation and the even wilder and crazier world of FI pageantry!!! I trust you have done your homework and truly know what you are getting into? =) In all seriousness, my advice to you is to always work hard, surround yourself with positive people who will lift you and keep your best interest at heart, and never give up on your dreams. Overnight success doesn’t happen easily. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, perseverance, and growing to become successful in the art form. There will be bumps along the way. I hope you will see the lessons in the failures and grow from them. Allow yourself to become a more rounded, polished entertainer/competitor by not letting the short comings break your spirit, but make you fight harder to be better. As you prepare for your 1st pageant, make sure you are 100% ready. Study the rules and category descriptions thoroughly. Study the history of that particular contest and practice, practice, practice!!!!! Prepare early and remember to have fun!!!! I wish you luck and remember “ a many a title” has been won by a first time competitor!!! “You can be anything you want to be”!!!
Good Luck!
Jessica Jade
Dear Closet Queen,
Where do I begin!?? First let me say thank you for following my journey and seeing me as an inspiration. I try to do my best in everything I do in life and it humbles me to hear praise from others. Now, about your boyfriend…. I’ll start by saying I’m sorry and my heart breaks for you that you are in this situation. Life is so short to have to hide anything in life that makes you happy or brings you joy. Trust me; I totally understand that some guys are “turned off” by guys that perform. I personally have had some potential relationships fail due to the other guy not being able to accept the “Jessica” in me. But, as I have gotten older and wiser I realize that those failed relationships were blessings in disguise. I would never want to be with anyone who did not love every part of me. In a healthy, positive relationship you don’t get to pick and choose parts of a person to love. You get the total package or none at all. I realize not all situations are the same and this thought may be harsh. I propose that you approach him and tell him how you feel. Tell him why you want to perform and what it means to you. Allow him to ask questions, maybe take him to a quality show to see what real female impersonation is. If he is not even open to the idea of learning more or understanding your feelings, I want you to seriously think about your future and your own wellbeing. Chances are if he feels this way about something that obviously means so much to you or to not even being open to the idea of understanding your desires?? You will most likely run into this type of one-sided relationship traits throughout your entire knowing of one another. I wish you luck and hope you will make the right decision for YOU. Please keep me posted.
Jessica
In closing, I would like to wish everyone a very Happy Valentine’s day. I particularly don’t care for this holiday; chalk it up to being bitter and single! Ha-ha I have joked for many years that my significant other was Miss Gay America. I am happy to say that after 10 years of dating we finally married on October 13th of this past year!!! I kid, I kid. In all seriousness, I will say I am ok with being single. I honestly have never really dated anyone in my life. Not that I am not capable of being with someone or able to love. It simply has not been in the cards for me. Don’t get me wrong, I have met people along the way in this life that I thought was or could be the one, and casually dated them. But, it didn’t work out for one reason or another. In retrospect those failed relationships would not have been healthy ones and I must consider myself lucky to have steered clear of the unpredictable. So, to all my single ladies out there, don’t get discouraged if you’re not lucky in relationships. Love yourself, love your family, love your friends, love your job, love your hobbies, and love LIFE!!
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
This month I have had the pleasure to travel to some of my favorite places and visit with old friends and make many new ones. My first trip this month was back to the city where I was crowned Miss Gay America 2014, St. Louis!! Chad Johnson and Curt Godier, the promoters for Illinois America made the trip possible! This weekend was arranged to kickoff Illinois America for the upcoming pageant season. Due to inclement weather my trip was postponed by a day, but once I finally made it to St. Louis, again after flight delays, MGA festivities were in full effect. Chad and Kurt met me at the airport, rushed me to “Rehab” to get ready for the show that included Mariah Candy, Victoria Rose, Janessa Highland, Jazzelle Boyette, and Miss Gay Illnois America, Diva Coppafeel! I had a GREAT time performing with the girls and the Rehab staff and patrons were amazing!!! Chad and Curt also fundraised money for my charity “Stand for the Silent”, which will be added to the savings, which I will present to Kirk Smiley (spokesperson for SFTS) at the end of my reign. Also, Diva did a special number for me that had voice overs from many of my Forever MGA sisters and DC promoter Robert York!!! It was so well executed and thoughtful!! I loved it!!
After the show Chad, along with Illinois city promoter, James Metcalf, Josh Brown, Jazzelle, and Diva took me on a tour of the “gay district” of St. Louis. We visited several clubs. The DJ’s at every club announced that Miss Gay America, Jessica Jade was “in the house”. Very VIP, if I must say so myself. Oh!! The perks! We ended the night with breakfast at Bill’s pancake house, and then Chad took me back to his home to repack and then straight back to the airport. Chad and Curt had decorated their extra bedroom with tons of framed pictures from my crowing at MGA this past year and snacks!! So sweet!! I was in St. Louis for roughly 11 hrs, but in that short time I had so much fun and was reminded of how blessed I am to be living this dream. The kindness that people are showing me all over the country humbles me and I am so grateful for this experience. I am still shocked that this happening to me!!! Shout outs to Trixie Larue, Colin Murphy, and Marty for stopping by Rehab while I was visiting!!
My next visit was to one of my favorite places to perform, Warehouse 29 in Greensboro, NC!!! The cast that night included the multi- talented Versage, Alexis Starr Brooks, and Santonio. Forever MGA -Tiffany Bonet, Big Shirli, Jessica O’brien, Paisley, Hollywood, Ava, Eden, DJ Bonet, and so many of the local girls came out to support the show!! After the show was over and the bar closed Raven Wood, Kent (owner of W29), Kelly Rae, Versage, DJ Kimo, Arcasia Xavier and myself ordered pizza and wings and gathered around a fireplace at the club. We had a great time chatting and catching up with each other sharing stories and reminiscing. Thank you ladies and guys for such a special night!
My next stop I returned to Legends Nightclub in Raleigh, NC!!! I am a former Miss Legends and have always respected the caliber of entertainment that Legends produces weekly in their beautiful show bar. The star studded cast consisted of me, my “maw” Dana St. James, Former Miss NC America- Emory Starr, and Forever MGA’s Coti Collins and Kirby Kolby! This show was truly a show to not be missed! The energy on stage and in the audience was incredible!!! That night reminded me of why I choose to entertain in the art form. The patrons of Legends treated all of us like stars!! It was not only an honor but a privilege to work with this cast as they are pioneers in the industry and so inspiring. I cannot wait to return!!!!! Special thanks for Biscuits and Arcasia for joining me this trip!! Also it was so good seeing Jeff Coble, Cassie, Marylyn, Paul, Amaya, Lindsey Starr, Jackie O’Knight, Diana Prince, Michelle Warren, and so many other friends!!!!
While in Raleigh I was able to meet up with the photographer that did my official MGA headshots and have another photo shoot! The main focus of this meeting was to get a great promo for my charity “Stand for the Silent”. We also did several looks which we will share with you throughout the year. Thank you Mikey Palmisano Photography, Kevin, and Alicia for all your hard work at the shoot! You guys are amazing and are genuinely good people. Stay tuned as I will be announcing very soon some great news about Stand for the Silent!!! I meet with the VP of my hospital’s Human Resources department to arrange a week tour in my hometown for SFTS to visit and do presentations as several local schools to help in drawing awareness to the effects and devastation bullying causes!
Next month I am set to travel to Charlottesville, VA to Club Impulse, Godfreys in Richmond, VA, The Park in Roanoke, VA, Club Chemistry in Greensboro, NC and to West Virginia for my Grandpa’s 75th surprise birthday party, where I’ll be in charge of decorations. After winning MGA in October, the local newspaper did an article on my winning, which covered the front and back page of the extra section. I remember my VERY Christian grandpa seeing it and saying “well… if you’re going to do anything in life, then do it big!!!”
On January 21st I celebrated my 33rd birthday. I usually have a big party and invite my co- workers from the hospital and friends inside and outside the art form. However, this year with all my traveling, working two jobs, and all my MGA duties, I just didn’t have the time to prepare a huge party like years past. At the last moment my co-workers talked me into a dinner at a Japanese steakhouse where the chefs prepare the food in front of you as a show. We had so much fun, as we as a group are quite the “entertainers”. I am very fortunate to work with a supportive group of co-workers that are excepting of people and things that are not their “norm”. It has been a silent mission for me to change the opinions or beliefs of those who do not live the life we do, to somewhat better understand what exactly it is that we do. I love nothing more than winning over those who were at one time sketched out or uncomfortable around gay people, much less female impersonators. The world is slowly progressing every day to be more open minded and accepting of difference. Are you doing your part to keep the progression moving steadily ahead in a positive direction???
This month I have chosen two “Dear Jessica’s” to share with you. If you would like to be featured next month in the “Dear Jessica” section of my newsletter, please submit your question by the 10th of the month to jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com.
Dear Jessica Jade
My question is what advice would you give to a new queen that's up and coming in her drag career and is about to compete in her first pageant.
XOXO JESSICA ST.JAMES
Dear Jessica, (Love the name)
Let me start by welcoming you to wild and crazy world of female impersonation and the even wilder and crazier world of FI pageantry!!! I trust you have done your homework and truly know what you are getting into? =) In all seriousness, my advice to you is to always work hard, surround yourself with positive people who will lift you and keep your best interest at heart, and never give up on your dreams. Overnight success doesn’t happen easily. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, perseverance, and growing to become successful in the art form. There will be bumps along the way. I hope you will see the lessons in the failures and grow from them. Allow yourself to become a more rounded, polished entertainer/competitor by not letting the short comings break your spirit, but make you fight harder to be better. As you prepare for your 1st pageant, make sure you are 100% ready. Study the rules and category descriptions thoroughly. Study the history of that particular contest and practice, practice, practice!!!!! Prepare early and remember to have fun!!!! I wish you luck and remember “ a many a title” has been won by a first time competitor!!! “You can be anything you want to be”!!!
Good Luck!
Jessica Jade
Dear Closet Queen,
Where do I begin!?? First let me say thank you for following my journey and seeing me as an inspiration. I try to do my best in everything I do in life and it humbles me to hear praise from others. Now, about your boyfriend…. I’ll start by saying I’m sorry and my heart breaks for you that you are in this situation. Life is so short to have to hide anything in life that makes you happy or brings you joy. Trust me; I totally understand that some guys are “turned off” by guys that perform. I personally have had some potential relationships fail due to the other guy not being able to accept the “Jessica” in me. But, as I have gotten older and wiser I realize that those failed relationships were blessings in disguise. I would never want to be with anyone who did not love every part of me. In a healthy, positive relationship you don’t get to pick and choose parts of a person to love. You get the total package or none at all. I realize not all situations are the same and this thought may be harsh. I propose that you approach him and tell him how you feel. Tell him why you want to perform and what it means to you. Allow him to ask questions, maybe take him to a quality show to see what real female impersonation is. If he is not even open to the idea of learning more or understanding your feelings, I want you to seriously think about your future and your own wellbeing. Chances are if he feels this way about something that obviously means so much to you or to not even being open to the idea of understanding your desires?? You will most likely run into this type of one-sided relationship traits throughout your entire knowing of one another. I wish you luck and hope you will make the right decision for YOU. Please keep me posted.
Jessica
In closing, I would like to wish everyone a very Happy Valentine’s day. I particularly don’t care for this holiday; chalk it up to being bitter and single! Ha-ha I have joked for many years that my significant other was Miss Gay America. I am happy to say that after 10 years of dating we finally married on October 13th of this past year!!! I kid, I kid. In all seriousness, I will say I am ok with being single. I honestly have never really dated anyone in my life. Not that I am not capable of being with someone or able to love. It simply has not been in the cards for me. Don’t get me wrong, I have met people along the way in this life that I thought was or could be the one, and casually dated them. But, it didn’t work out for one reason or another. In retrospect those failed relationships would not have been healthy ones and I must consider myself lucky to have steered clear of the unpredictable. So, to all my single ladies out there, don’t get discouraged if you’re not lucky in relationships. Love yourself, love your family, love your friends, love your job, love your hobbies, and love LIFE!!
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
March 2014
Burrrr !!! I am ready for winter to be over with!! Thankfully the 2015 Miss Gay America pageant season is going to heat things up!! Next month, I start what promises to be a very busy pageant season. The national office is estimating 30 preliminaries to Miss Gay America 2015!!! That will equal out to 60 contestants competing for the job of Miss Gay America in Nashville, Oct 8-12!!! We have and will be welcoming several new promoters to the system this year. I love nothing more than receiving messages to contact such and such about the possibility of purchasing a prelim to MGA, then in following days see their name and the date of their prelim listed on the MGA website. In some small way I feel I am helping plant the seeds to keep not only MGA alive and thriving, but the art form as well. I also love hearing from veteran promoters who share ideas and hopes for their upcoming preliminaries. Miss Gay America is a not only a pageant system, but a family. We all are in “this” together. I hope to witness support across the board between promoters, contestants, and pageant liaison’s throughout my travels. I totally understand that this is ultimately a competition, not only for contestants, but for promoters in search of contestants as well. I just hope that in the mist of competition all involved can support, lift, and work together to keep our family growing and moving steadily ahead.
Throughout my travels and my free time surfing social media sites I constantly hear “oh that’s very America”, “I’m not America material”, “they don’t want me” or “I’m too USA”….. Etc. Errrrr!!! Once you set aside the rules Miss Gay America has regarding body augmentation and hormones, there is NO set or defined criteria that should keep one from competing in our system or any other system for that matter! Talent is talent. Beauty is beauty. Creativity is creativity. Intelligence is intelligence. Class is class. NO system would every deny someone who possesses those qualities and traits. Of course throughout the years different systems have had certain types of talents, gowns, costuming, or hair styles that have become staples or scored well. I just can’t fathom any entertainer limiting their opportunity to compete in a contest because they feel they don’t fit the mold. I understand that sometimes as entertainers we do have to conform a bit to fit in different scenes in the world of illusion, especially in the realm of pageantry. The art form of female impersonation is resilient, constantly changing and evolving. We as artist must do the same, continue to grow, learn, and accept change. I challenge my fellow artist who may have thought or been told they didn’t fit a particular system to consider competing in that contest. There are so many different systems out there that positively promote the art form and offer so much to the world of illusion. Why limit yourself?? Promote yourself and allow doors to open for you. My heart belongs to MGA, but I love my USof A sisters, and the creativity of EOY, and the “fishiness” of Continental. As I mentioned earlier in this newsletter WE ALL ARE IN THIS TOGETHER!!!! We must support each other to keep the art form alive.
This month I have had the pleasure to travel to some of my favorite places and perform with some amazing entertainers. My first trip this month took me “home” to the Park in my hometown, Roanoke, VA! The Park had closed last year after 35 years of being the gay mecca in Roanoke. Fortunately, for the gay community the bar was purchased and reopened. The new owners have revamped and renovated the club. It looks amazing! They have done a great job and the crowds are packing in week after week. This was my first official show there since winning MGA in October. I had the honor to work with Show director, the creative- Bunny Flingus, my very talented daughter- Julianna Jade, and the painted- Eden Parque Divine. It was so nice to be home and share my winning MGA with the Roanoke community. As you can imagine, I have been traveling quite a bit since winning MGA , so It was nice to be able to catch up and spend time with so many patrons of The Park who have supported me from the beginning of my career.
My next trip was to Club Impulse in Charlottesville, VA! When I first started performing and competing in the art form I use to frequent the Charlottesville and Harrisonburg area quite often. I contribute those trips as part of the “building blocks” of my illusion. I was very excited to perform at Impulse as I have never been there before. I shared the stage that night with Rachel Kelly, Taylor Morgan, B. Miller, Delta Fairchild, Vestal Cox, Kendra Nicole, and Jason Elliot. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the cast and can’t wait to return. My travel buddy Frankie aka Biscuits joined me for this trip and had his own show in the parking lot at Cook Out, performing Whitney’s “it’s not right but it’s okay” for the drive through customers. Bless his heart <3
My next stop this month was to Godfrey’s in Richmond, VA for their legendary drag brunch show. If you have never attended a brunch at Godfreys, you are truly missing out!!!! The energy of the audience is unreal!! I always look forward to performing there, as I am a former Miss Godfreys and the staff is so good to me!!! I was joined by my sisters Mercedes Douglas, Alvion Arnell, and Heaven Leigh Kennedy for this show. Emcee/ show director- Jeff Willis was full of himself as usual picking on us “ladies” and keeping the audience in stitches. Thank you Godfreys for your many years of supporting me!! I look forward for my “Welcome home MGA” celebration next month with you all!!!!
My last show trip this month was to Greensboro, NC to perform at Club Chemistry. This was my first time performing at Chemistry and I had a great time! Thank you Drew for the opportunity!! This show featured show director Tia Chanelli, myself, and another daughter- Destiny Jade (aka Biscuits!!) Whenever the opportunity comes up that I can get one of my children booked with me, I jump on it. This is one way I help keep the art form alive; by teaching and working with other performers, allowing them to share in the joys and rewards that performing can bring. Shout outs to MGA supporters, Jonathon and Kyle for coming out to see me!!! Also, shout outs to Malaya Chanel, Monique Chanel, and India Dream for supporting our show that night!!
I was able to travel home to family in West VA this month to celebrate my Grandpa’s 75th birthday. My Grandpa has always been the one stable male role model in my life. He is an avid hunter, gardener, and basically a man’s man. Growing up he never slighted me or made me feel “less than” because I didn’t share his interest like my other boy cousins did. He would ask or try to involve me to join, but my heart was always with my Grandma. Staying inside watching the soaps, cooking, cleaning, watching Sally Jessie Raphael or Jenny Jones. However, I always loved taking walks up the trail with him, four wheeling, and grocery shopping with him. I think he always knew I was “different” from my other cousins, but he never treated me as such. So, I always take any opportunity to spoil him and my Grandma for that matter!!! His party was a success and he was genuinely surprised. As he blessed the food and said grace, one of strongest men I know choked up and shed tears, asking God to “give him just a few more years to watch his great grand kids grow up”. As you can guess….myself along with my mom and sister lost it!!! LOL ..What can I say? I’m just one of the girls! I cherished this weekend with my family, as I know my time with them will be limited this year due to all my MGA duties and travels.
I have chosen two “Dear Jessica’s” to share with you this month. If you would like to submit a question to me to be featured on next month’s Excellence newsletter please email me atjessicajademga2014@yahoo.com by the 10th of March.
Dear Jessica,
If you had to give up your crown now and recrown a former Miss Gay
America. Who would you crown and why?
Thanks,
Houston Donald
Dear Houston!
Let me start by thanking for the gift and Starbucks card you gave me just prior to MGA this past year! It was put to great use and I am thankful for your support
!! In response to your question.. As you know I have always boasted that MGA is made of a long list of some of the most amazingly talented entertainers that this industry has to offer. Many of which have paved the way for artists of today and those for the future. While I could list so many and tell you what made that particular "Forever" MGA special or what significant contribution he made to MGA, the LGBT community, or to the world of female impersonation, I’ll name one. Catia Lee Love. Catia has always been the epitome of class, elegance, and professionalism to me. Not to mention, he is extremely talented and self-sufficient, making all her own costumes, gowns, and wigs. Catia was a great administrator when she was MGA as well as an emcee. He also is to this day, very involved with MGA working as the "national pageant director" and is one of the most traveled entertainers, performing and emceeing at MANY preliminaries and shows every year. Catia has made a name for himself onstage as well as off stage throughout the world of female impersonation. I am honored to be in the MGA sisterhood with him.
Thank you for writing!!
Xoxo Jessica
Hello Jessica,
I wanted to reach out and see if there was any advice you
can give on, on stage question? Do you think there's
anything particular I should study on? I'm running in Pageant soon and would love your advice.
Thanks for your help.
Deora Le Blanc
Hey Deora!!
Thank you for the message! On stage question can be a nerve wrecking category for many, especially if one doesn't have much experience talking on a mic in front of a large group. If you do not have that experience, my initial advice would be to start greeting your audiences at your shows, just to get a feel for speaking on the mic and getting more comfortable talking to large groups of people. You don't have to tell your life story or go into great detail about anything, just say hi and thank your audience for coming out to support the show or the art form. In reference to studying for the on-stage question category I would search you -tube for different types of on stage question presentations from many of the different systems. Write down the questions the contestants have been asked and practice asking yourself the questions aloud and your responses aloud. Learning different type of questions and answers will come in handy down the road as you may be asked a question similar to one you have practiced. Also you may be able to pull an answer you have studied to answer other similar or like questions. Another way to practice is to have a "drag party" and invite some of your closest sisters over and practice interview and on stage questions together. I know it sounds silly but it works. Every year on the way to MGA my dresser, Arcasia Xavier and I would practice the interview categories by asking each other previous on stage questions and interviews questions we had been asked or heard asked in previous pageants. Lastly, remember when your actually on stage during on stage interview speak loud enough, slow enough, and clearly so your judges and audience can hear you. Look calm and poised. After being asked your question, it’s usually best to go with the first thought that comes to mind. Speak from the heart and get in and get out. Don't drag your answer out or babble on. Make your point, support it with an example if needed and hope for the best. I know this is a lot! Whew! I hope it helps you as you prepare for your contest!
Good Luck!!
Jessica
Next month will be SUPER busy as I have three preliminaries scheduled, Miss North East, Miss Mid America, and Miss DC!!! I also will return to Godfreys in Richmond, VA, Legends in Raleigh, NC, Ziegfeld’s in DC, and Freddie’s in Alexandria, VA!! I especially can’t wait for my prelims to start. I would be lying if I said I’m not nervous. I realize that so much is resting on my shoulders and so many people are depending on me to be the “Symbol of Excellence”. I feel I am ready. I wanted this for so long. The time has come. I am so excited for the 2015 MGA pageant season to start!!! I can’t wait (if I already haven’t) to meet who will take my job as the Miss Gay America 2015. Your life will change forever, I promise.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
Throughout my travels and my free time surfing social media sites I constantly hear “oh that’s very America”, “I’m not America material”, “they don’t want me” or “I’m too USA”….. Etc. Errrrr!!! Once you set aside the rules Miss Gay America has regarding body augmentation and hormones, there is NO set or defined criteria that should keep one from competing in our system or any other system for that matter! Talent is talent. Beauty is beauty. Creativity is creativity. Intelligence is intelligence. Class is class. NO system would every deny someone who possesses those qualities and traits. Of course throughout the years different systems have had certain types of talents, gowns, costuming, or hair styles that have become staples or scored well. I just can’t fathom any entertainer limiting their opportunity to compete in a contest because they feel they don’t fit the mold. I understand that sometimes as entertainers we do have to conform a bit to fit in different scenes in the world of illusion, especially in the realm of pageantry. The art form of female impersonation is resilient, constantly changing and evolving. We as artist must do the same, continue to grow, learn, and accept change. I challenge my fellow artist who may have thought or been told they didn’t fit a particular system to consider competing in that contest. There are so many different systems out there that positively promote the art form and offer so much to the world of illusion. Why limit yourself?? Promote yourself and allow doors to open for you. My heart belongs to MGA, but I love my USof A sisters, and the creativity of EOY, and the “fishiness” of Continental. As I mentioned earlier in this newsletter WE ALL ARE IN THIS TOGETHER!!!! We must support each other to keep the art form alive.
This month I have had the pleasure to travel to some of my favorite places and perform with some amazing entertainers. My first trip this month took me “home” to the Park in my hometown, Roanoke, VA! The Park had closed last year after 35 years of being the gay mecca in Roanoke. Fortunately, for the gay community the bar was purchased and reopened. The new owners have revamped and renovated the club. It looks amazing! They have done a great job and the crowds are packing in week after week. This was my first official show there since winning MGA in October. I had the honor to work with Show director, the creative- Bunny Flingus, my very talented daughter- Julianna Jade, and the painted- Eden Parque Divine. It was so nice to be home and share my winning MGA with the Roanoke community. As you can imagine, I have been traveling quite a bit since winning MGA , so It was nice to be able to catch up and spend time with so many patrons of The Park who have supported me from the beginning of my career.
My next trip was to Club Impulse in Charlottesville, VA! When I first started performing and competing in the art form I use to frequent the Charlottesville and Harrisonburg area quite often. I contribute those trips as part of the “building blocks” of my illusion. I was very excited to perform at Impulse as I have never been there before. I shared the stage that night with Rachel Kelly, Taylor Morgan, B. Miller, Delta Fairchild, Vestal Cox, Kendra Nicole, and Jason Elliot. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the cast and can’t wait to return. My travel buddy Frankie aka Biscuits joined me for this trip and had his own show in the parking lot at Cook Out, performing Whitney’s “it’s not right but it’s okay” for the drive through customers. Bless his heart <3
My next stop this month was to Godfrey’s in Richmond, VA for their legendary drag brunch show. If you have never attended a brunch at Godfreys, you are truly missing out!!!! The energy of the audience is unreal!! I always look forward to performing there, as I am a former Miss Godfreys and the staff is so good to me!!! I was joined by my sisters Mercedes Douglas, Alvion Arnell, and Heaven Leigh Kennedy for this show. Emcee/ show director- Jeff Willis was full of himself as usual picking on us “ladies” and keeping the audience in stitches. Thank you Godfreys for your many years of supporting me!! I look forward for my “Welcome home MGA” celebration next month with you all!!!!
My last show trip this month was to Greensboro, NC to perform at Club Chemistry. This was my first time performing at Chemistry and I had a great time! Thank you Drew for the opportunity!! This show featured show director Tia Chanelli, myself, and another daughter- Destiny Jade (aka Biscuits!!) Whenever the opportunity comes up that I can get one of my children booked with me, I jump on it. This is one way I help keep the art form alive; by teaching and working with other performers, allowing them to share in the joys and rewards that performing can bring. Shout outs to MGA supporters, Jonathon and Kyle for coming out to see me!!! Also, shout outs to Malaya Chanel, Monique Chanel, and India Dream for supporting our show that night!!
I was able to travel home to family in West VA this month to celebrate my Grandpa’s 75th birthday. My Grandpa has always been the one stable male role model in my life. He is an avid hunter, gardener, and basically a man’s man. Growing up he never slighted me or made me feel “less than” because I didn’t share his interest like my other boy cousins did. He would ask or try to involve me to join, but my heart was always with my Grandma. Staying inside watching the soaps, cooking, cleaning, watching Sally Jessie Raphael or Jenny Jones. However, I always loved taking walks up the trail with him, four wheeling, and grocery shopping with him. I think he always knew I was “different” from my other cousins, but he never treated me as such. So, I always take any opportunity to spoil him and my Grandma for that matter!!! His party was a success and he was genuinely surprised. As he blessed the food and said grace, one of strongest men I know choked up and shed tears, asking God to “give him just a few more years to watch his great grand kids grow up”. As you can guess….myself along with my mom and sister lost it!!! LOL ..What can I say? I’m just one of the girls! I cherished this weekend with my family, as I know my time with them will be limited this year due to all my MGA duties and travels.
I have chosen two “Dear Jessica’s” to share with you this month. If you would like to submit a question to me to be featured on next month’s Excellence newsletter please email me atjessicajademga2014@yahoo.com by the 10th of March.
Dear Jessica,
If you had to give up your crown now and recrown a former Miss Gay
America. Who would you crown and why?
Thanks,
Houston Donald
Dear Houston!
Let me start by thanking for the gift and Starbucks card you gave me just prior to MGA this past year! It was put to great use and I am thankful for your support
!! In response to your question.. As you know I have always boasted that MGA is made of a long list of some of the most amazingly talented entertainers that this industry has to offer. Many of which have paved the way for artists of today and those for the future. While I could list so many and tell you what made that particular "Forever" MGA special or what significant contribution he made to MGA, the LGBT community, or to the world of female impersonation, I’ll name one. Catia Lee Love. Catia has always been the epitome of class, elegance, and professionalism to me. Not to mention, he is extremely talented and self-sufficient, making all her own costumes, gowns, and wigs. Catia was a great administrator when she was MGA as well as an emcee. He also is to this day, very involved with MGA working as the "national pageant director" and is one of the most traveled entertainers, performing and emceeing at MANY preliminaries and shows every year. Catia has made a name for himself onstage as well as off stage throughout the world of female impersonation. I am honored to be in the MGA sisterhood with him.
Thank you for writing!!
Xoxo Jessica
Hello Jessica,
I wanted to reach out and see if there was any advice you
can give on, on stage question? Do you think there's
anything particular I should study on? I'm running in Pageant soon and would love your advice.
Thanks for your help.
Deora Le Blanc
Hey Deora!!
Thank you for the message! On stage question can be a nerve wrecking category for many, especially if one doesn't have much experience talking on a mic in front of a large group. If you do not have that experience, my initial advice would be to start greeting your audiences at your shows, just to get a feel for speaking on the mic and getting more comfortable talking to large groups of people. You don't have to tell your life story or go into great detail about anything, just say hi and thank your audience for coming out to support the show or the art form. In reference to studying for the on-stage question category I would search you -tube for different types of on stage question presentations from many of the different systems. Write down the questions the contestants have been asked and practice asking yourself the questions aloud and your responses aloud. Learning different type of questions and answers will come in handy down the road as you may be asked a question similar to one you have practiced. Also you may be able to pull an answer you have studied to answer other similar or like questions. Another way to practice is to have a "drag party" and invite some of your closest sisters over and practice interview and on stage questions together. I know it sounds silly but it works. Every year on the way to MGA my dresser, Arcasia Xavier and I would practice the interview categories by asking each other previous on stage questions and interviews questions we had been asked or heard asked in previous pageants. Lastly, remember when your actually on stage during on stage interview speak loud enough, slow enough, and clearly so your judges and audience can hear you. Look calm and poised. After being asked your question, it’s usually best to go with the first thought that comes to mind. Speak from the heart and get in and get out. Don't drag your answer out or babble on. Make your point, support it with an example if needed and hope for the best. I know this is a lot! Whew! I hope it helps you as you prepare for your contest!
Good Luck!!
Jessica
Next month will be SUPER busy as I have three preliminaries scheduled, Miss North East, Miss Mid America, and Miss DC!!! I also will return to Godfreys in Richmond, VA, Legends in Raleigh, NC, Ziegfeld’s in DC, and Freddie’s in Alexandria, VA!! I especially can’t wait for my prelims to start. I would be lying if I said I’m not nervous. I realize that so much is resting on my shoulders and so many people are depending on me to be the “Symbol of Excellence”. I feel I am ready. I wanted this for so long. The time has come. I am so excited for the 2015 MGA pageant season to start!!! I can’t wait (if I already haven’t) to meet who will take my job as the Miss Gay America 2015. Your life will change forever, I promise.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
April 2014
Greetings to everyone! I will be the first to say I am so happy winter is over with!!! The sporadic weather is very irritating, especially when one is traveling all over the country!!! This past month has been a VERY busy one for MGA!! Although, I wouldn’t have it any other way as I want to expose the title of Miss Gay America all over the country, anywhere anyone will have me! The 2015 MGA pageant season kicked off this month with three regional preliminaries. In addition, I visited some of my favorite clubs and friends this month.
My first trip this month took me to Wyomissing, Pennsylvania for Miss North East America, the 1st official prelim to MGA 2015. Promoters, Eric Brown and Tom Kinnier took such great care of me, along with Tom’s partner Michael. This was Tom and Eric’s first regional prelim to MGA and I commend them on a job well done! They produced a wonderful pageant with no issues, as if they had been promoters for years!!! Three very qualified contestants competed for the 1st two tickets to MGA. At the end of the night Laquitcha Rodriguez was crowned Miss North East America, and Patty Lovelace as her 1st alternate. Both did an excellent job and have both made it into top 10 at MGA previous years. I’m excited for both to return this year!! In attendance at North East was Terry Eason to help calm nerves, My good friend Frankie (Biscuits) and Christina Davis, who helped sell 50/50 raffle tickets, to help raise money for my charity “Stand for the Silent”. Also in attendance was Miss Gay USofA -Shae Shae Lareese, Forever MGA Sabrina White, Mark Martin from Las Vegas Costumes- The official MGA jeweler, and a huge audience of fans of female illusion. North East was a great kick off for the 2015 MGA pageant season!!
My next trip was to Raleigh,NC to perform at Legends!!! The show that night included the beautiful -Dana St. James, Forever MGA- Kirby Kolby, Former Miss NC America- Emory Starr, and myself. Back stage we were assisted by the very helpful dressing room assistant Miss Jasmine, who I adore!!! Performing as Legends is an honor, as the shows there always boast such a high caliber of artist. I look forward to returning soon!!!
My next stop was off to Nashville, Tennessee for Miss Gay Mid America!! I was very excited to get to see Larry Tyger as it had been a few months since we visited one another. He picked me up from the airport and we had a few moments to catch up before gathering judges Christina Davis, Sabrina White, and Sally Sparkles! After a few hours of shopping, a St. Patty’s lunch, and cocktails at Ellendale’s, we headed to Larry and Chuck’s home to prepare for a cocktail party. The cocktail party was to celebrate Miss Gay Mid America, Reigning Miss Mid America- Suzy Wong, and to view the 2014 Miss Gay America DVD. It was a sweet moment to witness Sally watch her give up and see tears fall from her eyes, as I know that winning MGA was such a high light in her life. The party was a success with many guest enjoying snacks prepared by Chuck and everyone enjoying one another’s company. We were “brought together by excellence”. Among the guest was the founder of MGA, Mr. Jerry Peak. I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with him about why he started MGA so long ago and what his vision was for the contest. The following day was all business as Miss Mid America was underway!! The pageant was held at Play in Nashville and two contestants showed up to compete for the title! Sasha Leigh Chambers and Venus Knight competed in a great contest. In the end Sasha took top honors and was crowned Miss Mid America. My time in Nashville was short, but catching up with Larry, Terry, Chuck, Sally, Sabrina, and Christina was so good!!!
My next trip took me to the Nation’s capital for Miss Gay DC Regional! I use to travel to DC often to perform, but over the past couple of years due to my crazy work schedule I have not been able to visit as much as I would like to. While visiting for the pageant I was honored to work at Ziegfeld’s the night before Miss DC with an incredible show cast!! Thanks to Mr. John Parks I was invited to perform with Kristina Kelly, the legendary Billie Ross, Patty Lovelace, Gabriella, and the lady of the weekend, Miss DC Blair Williams. We had a fabulous time and it was so nice catching up with my DC sisters!!! The next day was all about MGA as we celebrated with DC promoter, Robert York!!! I have had the pleasure to work with Robert over the years as I am a former Miss Gay DC Regional. Robert always produces a great contest with so much attention to detail. Three great contestants fought hard in an exciting contest for their spots to MGA 2015. In the end Roxy Brooks was crowned Miss DC, with Deva Station as her 1st alternate. Both ladies are former top 10 contestants at MGA and I know will do great this year! Thank you Towne Night Club for hosting our pageant and thank you Robert for my beautiful accommodations and my blue diamond keep sake!!!!! Also, thank you DC head judge and forever MGA-Kirby Kolby for always being an inspiration to so many on and off the stage.
Before heading back home I was asked to judge a contest at another one of my favorite spots in the DC area. I served as head judge for Miss Freddie’s at Freddie’s Beach Bar in Alexandria.VA! Thank you Destiny B. Child’s for having me and allowing me to share in what was a special, unique contest. I was thoroughly entertained!! Congrats to my dear friend Monet Dupree on a stellar give up and congrats to Sasha Adams on winning, what was very evident a title that means so much to her. Special thanks to Frankie (Biscuits) for dressing me all weekend. I know I can be a handful and can be very particular. I have been spoiled to have him at my first three prelims…I won’t know how to act when he can’t make it to one!!! While in DC I was so happy to see former MGA promoter, my “Paw” John Kane and his “wife” Patty Lovelace. John and Patty are genuine, incredible people and the world could use more like them. I love you both!!! Also, I got to visit with long time MGA supporter and dear friend, Sarah Molina!!! Thank you Christina Davis for helping once again sale 50/50 raffle tickets for my charity “Stand for the Silent”. You are one of a kind!!!!!
Next month promises to be just as busy as I am set to visit Godfrey’s in Richmond, VA, Missouri, Maryland, and home to visit family in West VA for Easter!!! I am so grateful for the opportunities being Miss Gay America has given me to be able to travel all over this beautiful country. A lot of people ask how I do it?? I work full time doing cat scans, part time doing mobile x-rays, and travel pretty much every weekend performing. My answer simply is ….I don’t like to be still. Life is so incredibly short and we should always embrace any opportunity to get out there and live! Also, I strongly believe that as MGA, I owe it to the pageant system to share the title as much as possible with the world. I will have plenty of time to rest come October 12th. =)
This month I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” to share . If you would like to submit a question to me to be featured in my newsletter next month, email me by the 10th of the month tojessicajademga2014@yahoo.com
Hi Jessica, how are you? I hope all is well! I wanted to send you a message letting you know that Im so excited to continue my journey of becoming Miss Gay America! To achieve these dreams I really need to build a stronger interview, I was curious to know if you would be willing to share some tips , ideas or advice for a winning interview. I.e how long should a bio be etc. Any advice will be greatly appreciated and extremely helpful! Thank You!
I hope your year has been nothing less than magical!
Seeking the power of the gab
Dear gab seeker!
I am fabulous! My reign has been incredible thus far and I am so excited to be a part of such a great system and family. My advice to you is to first, read over the interview category description and the breakdown of the points. Make sure you understand exactly what each sub category means and make sure you are working hard to coincide with those qualities to ensure you receive the maximum amount of points possible. Next, I would suggest having “drag parties” where you can have mock interviews. Have a group of friends or fellow illusionist ask you all sorts of questions to help you practice and get better at formulating and quickly giving concise complete answers. You could also search youtube for different on stage questions from various pageants to help practice different types of questions and answers. As far as a bio is concerned, it shouldn’t be so long that it eats up all the time for your interview. It should however, have enough “meat” that the judges get to know you and are interested to talk to you. Use that time to tell them where you’ve been, where you’re at, and where you would like to go in life. Be honest and genuine. A lot of time judges will ask questions from something you offer in your bio. So these will be easy to answer because it’s about YOU! Always speak from the heart, be honest, and try to conduct the interview as if you are with a group of friends conversing back and forth. Remember you are applying for a JOB. So look the part. Finally, speak loud enough so your judges can hear you and have a pleasant ton. When answering your questions scan all judges in theeyes, not just the judge that ask the question. Also, make sure you allow the judge to ask the question completely before answering. Finally, make sure when the interview is about to end to leave the judges with a profound statement that will make them remember you. Something that will make them think “he is really wants this, he is ready”!
Good luck!!!
Jessica
In conclusion, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter and the hopes for a pleasant spring!!! Pageant season is in full swing and I am so excited to continue on this journey. Thank you to all the promoters and contestants who reach out to me for various questions, issues, or just to chat. Always know I am here for you, and appreciate your belief in me.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
My first trip this month took me to Wyomissing, Pennsylvania for Miss North East America, the 1st official prelim to MGA 2015. Promoters, Eric Brown and Tom Kinnier took such great care of me, along with Tom’s partner Michael. This was Tom and Eric’s first regional prelim to MGA and I commend them on a job well done! They produced a wonderful pageant with no issues, as if they had been promoters for years!!! Three very qualified contestants competed for the 1st two tickets to MGA. At the end of the night Laquitcha Rodriguez was crowned Miss North East America, and Patty Lovelace as her 1st alternate. Both did an excellent job and have both made it into top 10 at MGA previous years. I’m excited for both to return this year!! In attendance at North East was Terry Eason to help calm nerves, My good friend Frankie (Biscuits) and Christina Davis, who helped sell 50/50 raffle tickets, to help raise money for my charity “Stand for the Silent”. Also in attendance was Miss Gay USofA -Shae Shae Lareese, Forever MGA Sabrina White, Mark Martin from Las Vegas Costumes- The official MGA jeweler, and a huge audience of fans of female illusion. North East was a great kick off for the 2015 MGA pageant season!!
My next trip was to Raleigh,NC to perform at Legends!!! The show that night included the beautiful -Dana St. James, Forever MGA- Kirby Kolby, Former Miss NC America- Emory Starr, and myself. Back stage we were assisted by the very helpful dressing room assistant Miss Jasmine, who I adore!!! Performing as Legends is an honor, as the shows there always boast such a high caliber of artist. I look forward to returning soon!!!
My next stop was off to Nashville, Tennessee for Miss Gay Mid America!! I was very excited to get to see Larry Tyger as it had been a few months since we visited one another. He picked me up from the airport and we had a few moments to catch up before gathering judges Christina Davis, Sabrina White, and Sally Sparkles! After a few hours of shopping, a St. Patty’s lunch, and cocktails at Ellendale’s, we headed to Larry and Chuck’s home to prepare for a cocktail party. The cocktail party was to celebrate Miss Gay Mid America, Reigning Miss Mid America- Suzy Wong, and to view the 2014 Miss Gay America DVD. It was a sweet moment to witness Sally watch her give up and see tears fall from her eyes, as I know that winning MGA was such a high light in her life. The party was a success with many guest enjoying snacks prepared by Chuck and everyone enjoying one another’s company. We were “brought together by excellence”. Among the guest was the founder of MGA, Mr. Jerry Peak. I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with him about why he started MGA so long ago and what his vision was for the contest. The following day was all business as Miss Mid America was underway!! The pageant was held at Play in Nashville and two contestants showed up to compete for the title! Sasha Leigh Chambers and Venus Knight competed in a great contest. In the end Sasha took top honors and was crowned Miss Mid America. My time in Nashville was short, but catching up with Larry, Terry, Chuck, Sally, Sabrina, and Christina was so good!!!
My next trip took me to the Nation’s capital for Miss Gay DC Regional! I use to travel to DC often to perform, but over the past couple of years due to my crazy work schedule I have not been able to visit as much as I would like to. While visiting for the pageant I was honored to work at Ziegfeld’s the night before Miss DC with an incredible show cast!! Thanks to Mr. John Parks I was invited to perform with Kristina Kelly, the legendary Billie Ross, Patty Lovelace, Gabriella, and the lady of the weekend, Miss DC Blair Williams. We had a fabulous time and it was so nice catching up with my DC sisters!!! The next day was all about MGA as we celebrated with DC promoter, Robert York!!! I have had the pleasure to work with Robert over the years as I am a former Miss Gay DC Regional. Robert always produces a great contest with so much attention to detail. Three great contestants fought hard in an exciting contest for their spots to MGA 2015. In the end Roxy Brooks was crowned Miss DC, with Deva Station as her 1st alternate. Both ladies are former top 10 contestants at MGA and I know will do great this year! Thank you Towne Night Club for hosting our pageant and thank you Robert for my beautiful accommodations and my blue diamond keep sake!!!!! Also, thank you DC head judge and forever MGA-Kirby Kolby for always being an inspiration to so many on and off the stage.
Before heading back home I was asked to judge a contest at another one of my favorite spots in the DC area. I served as head judge for Miss Freddie’s at Freddie’s Beach Bar in Alexandria.VA! Thank you Destiny B. Child’s for having me and allowing me to share in what was a special, unique contest. I was thoroughly entertained!! Congrats to my dear friend Monet Dupree on a stellar give up and congrats to Sasha Adams on winning, what was very evident a title that means so much to her. Special thanks to Frankie (Biscuits) for dressing me all weekend. I know I can be a handful and can be very particular. I have been spoiled to have him at my first three prelims…I won’t know how to act when he can’t make it to one!!! While in DC I was so happy to see former MGA promoter, my “Paw” John Kane and his “wife” Patty Lovelace. John and Patty are genuine, incredible people and the world could use more like them. I love you both!!! Also, I got to visit with long time MGA supporter and dear friend, Sarah Molina!!! Thank you Christina Davis for helping once again sale 50/50 raffle tickets for my charity “Stand for the Silent”. You are one of a kind!!!!!
Next month promises to be just as busy as I am set to visit Godfrey’s in Richmond, VA, Missouri, Maryland, and home to visit family in West VA for Easter!!! I am so grateful for the opportunities being Miss Gay America has given me to be able to travel all over this beautiful country. A lot of people ask how I do it?? I work full time doing cat scans, part time doing mobile x-rays, and travel pretty much every weekend performing. My answer simply is ….I don’t like to be still. Life is so incredibly short and we should always embrace any opportunity to get out there and live! Also, I strongly believe that as MGA, I owe it to the pageant system to share the title as much as possible with the world. I will have plenty of time to rest come October 12th. =)
This month I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” to share . If you would like to submit a question to me to be featured in my newsletter next month, email me by the 10th of the month tojessicajademga2014@yahoo.com
Hi Jessica, how are you? I hope all is well! I wanted to send you a message letting you know that Im so excited to continue my journey of becoming Miss Gay America! To achieve these dreams I really need to build a stronger interview, I was curious to know if you would be willing to share some tips , ideas or advice for a winning interview. I.e how long should a bio be etc. Any advice will be greatly appreciated and extremely helpful! Thank You!
I hope your year has been nothing less than magical!
Seeking the power of the gab
Dear gab seeker!
I am fabulous! My reign has been incredible thus far and I am so excited to be a part of such a great system and family. My advice to you is to first, read over the interview category description and the breakdown of the points. Make sure you understand exactly what each sub category means and make sure you are working hard to coincide with those qualities to ensure you receive the maximum amount of points possible. Next, I would suggest having “drag parties” where you can have mock interviews. Have a group of friends or fellow illusionist ask you all sorts of questions to help you practice and get better at formulating and quickly giving concise complete answers. You could also search youtube for different on stage questions from various pageants to help practice different types of questions and answers. As far as a bio is concerned, it shouldn’t be so long that it eats up all the time for your interview. It should however, have enough “meat” that the judges get to know you and are interested to talk to you. Use that time to tell them where you’ve been, where you’re at, and where you would like to go in life. Be honest and genuine. A lot of time judges will ask questions from something you offer in your bio. So these will be easy to answer because it’s about YOU! Always speak from the heart, be honest, and try to conduct the interview as if you are with a group of friends conversing back and forth. Remember you are applying for a JOB. So look the part. Finally, speak loud enough so your judges can hear you and have a pleasant ton. When answering your questions scan all judges in theeyes, not just the judge that ask the question. Also, make sure you allow the judge to ask the question completely before answering. Finally, make sure when the interview is about to end to leave the judges with a profound statement that will make them remember you. Something that will make them think “he is really wants this, he is ready”!
Good luck!!!
Jessica
In conclusion, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter and the hopes for a pleasant spring!!! Pageant season is in full swing and I am so excited to continue on this journey. Thank you to all the promoters and contestants who reach out to me for various questions, issues, or just to chat. Always know I am here for you, and appreciate your belief in me.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
May 2014
I can honestly say that I can’t believe that I am 6 months into my reign as Miss Gay America! Time is truly flying by! Even though, I try to capture and treasure every moment, I know this part of the journey will be over soon. I am having the time of my life traveling all over the country, building on the legacy of MGA, meeting new people in the art form, visiting new places, visiting with old friends, and witnessing all the new talented artists that are coming up the ranks in the world of pageantry. I have now over seen 5 prelims and I am proud to say that the contestants competing for their tickets to MGA 2015 are not playing this year! There has been a many a battle for the spots to get to Nashville in October!!! I have been inspired in so many ways by the promoters and the contestants of this system. Thank you all so much for this wonderful opportunity!!
This past month has been a VERY busy one on so many levels for me. I attended 2 multi day state preliminaries, visited family for Easter, finalized some charity work for my platform- Stand for the Silent, advanced my credentials for my “real” job, and took in some regular show bookings. Whew!!! Even I shock myself how I do it and not slight one area for another. I’ve always been a person who stays busy and gets bored easily if I’m not on the go.
My first stop this month was in Richmond, VA to visit my family at Godfrey’s for a whole weekend. By the end of the weekend I had completed a Saturday morning brunch show, a Saturday dinner show, a Saturday night “Pump” show, and a double Sunday brunch show. I had the honor to work with some of my favs, Alvion, Heaven Leigh, Jeff Willis, Chanttenah, and, Natasha. Thank you all and the staff of Godfrey’s for always treating me like family.
My next stop was to St. Louis, Missouri for my first state prelim. It was so nice to return to the city where my dream of becoming Miss Gay America happened! Miss Missouri is a state pageant that has been around for many years and so many of the formers are very hands on and deeply cherish the heritage and the legacy of the pageant. The Missouri Board of Directors did an incredible job producing a beautiful contest. Thank you Jade Sinclair, Sparkles, Omelio, Daniel, and Athena for all your hard work and love for MGA and Miss Missouri! Sixteen contestants qualified from all the Show me state. After 3 days of competition Adria Andrews was crowned the new Miss Gay Missouri, with Taylor Madison Monroe as 1st alternate. Both ladies did a fabulous job and will represent the Missouri franchise well at MGA in Nashville, in October. While in St. Louis I was so happy to catch up with Illinois promoters Chad and Kurt, Josh Brown, James Metcalf, Colin Murphy, Chris Sutton, Vicki Valentino, Larry Tyger, and Chuck Guthrie. Congrats to Christa Collins on a great year as Miss Missouri 2013 and for being a shining example of excellence.
My next visit was back home to visit family in West VA for Easter. I always enjoy visiting my sister, nephew, and grandparents. They live only 2 hours and 15 mins away from where I live in VA, but with everything going this year our time together is not as much as I would like. Growing up I was always a “Grandma’s boy”….I guess you could still say that. Last month my Grandma had a short hospital stay and was transferred to the hospital I work at. I was relieved she was at my place of work so I could check in on her throughout my shifts. The last night she was there, I went up to visit her before I went home. I cleaned her dentures (she was too embarrassed to ask the nurses), tucked her in, and made sure she had water by her bed. As I was leaving, she told me that my cousin Jaime was with the ambulance crew that brought her to Roanoke and that Jaime told her she was happy she would be in my hospital and I could stay with her. My grandma told her that I would be there as soon as I got home from Nashville ( I was at Miss Mid America) and that I had won “The Big One”. As I left her side that night, she told me she was proud of me with a sound in her voice that I never heard before. It saddens me to see her and my grandfather age, as they have always been mine and my sister’s rock and I know the inevitable will come. Just as I would like to pump the breaks on my reign as MGA, I feel the same about life. Being a health care worker you see and learn things that make you cherish and appreciate the gift of life. If you take anything from this month’s newsletter, remember that our time here is not promised and that it can be taken away at any moment. Try to be your personal best and take the time to love and enjoy the ones that mean most to you.
Somehow, someway in the midst of all my traveling, working, and preparing for my journey as the reigning Symbol of Excellence, I found time to study for my CAT scan registry. I am proud to say I passed!!!! Bring on the pay raise and the extra letters following my last name on my work badge!!! I was always smart to make sure to take care of the life of “Billy” 1st without compromising my long term career and future for my love for the art form. Fortunately, for me I was able to balance my career and the level of performing/competing that I do without slighting one for the other. It has not been exactly easy, but I’m proud to say I’m exactly where I saw myself, 10 years ago. Most jobs in the art form don’t come with benefits, retirement plans, or guaranteed regular pay checks, so I urge all my sisters old or new to plan for the future and take care of the boy under the make-up!!!
Finally, I made my way to Baltimore, Maryland for my second state preliminary. Promoter Chuck Bowers did an excellent job producing a fabulous contest. He was assisted by the reigning Miss Maryland, Araya Sparxx. Araya‘s theme was Legally Blonde and I was so honored to play a part in her opening. Araya too, was another shining example of Excellence all year, as she traveled all over Maryland overseeing the city prelims. Fourteen unique contestants came to battle for the crown, after 3 days of competition Alondra Sanchez was name the new Miss Gay Maryland, and Miss D Meaner as her 1st alternate. Both will be great assets to the 2015 Miss Gay America pageant contest roster!!! While in Maryland I got to catch up with Head Judge/Forever MGA- Sabrina White, Forever MGA Coco Montrese, Larry Tyger, Duwanna Moore, Ashley Banks, Nicole James, Terry Eason, WV promoter- Coby Myers, NorthEast promoters Tom Kinnier and Eric Brown, Sarah Molina and so may MGA sisters, mostly former Miss Maryland’s! Special thanks to Christina Davis for being a lifesaver all weekend, as she helped dress me, pick up food, sell raffle tickets for my charity, and keep me company. I’m not sure of any “real” girl out there who loves MGA more!!! Thank you for all you do for our family!!!! Much love!!! Also, thank you Chuck Bowers for my beautiful fuchsia and black necklace set from Las Vega Costumes!!! Mark Martin… thank you so much for my orange and pink set, MGA ring, and for transporting a ton of luggage for me back home! Chi Chi- thank you for driving me around!!! I had an incredible time at Maryland and one of the highlights was when all 14 contestants presented me with gifts that represented them or their home state. I was so surprised and humbled by their generosity. I was given gift cards, snacks, jewels, stuffed animals, jewelry boxes, sports items, and the list goes on! Thank you guys so much….I was truly touched!!!
This month I was able to finalize something I have been working on since winning MGA in October. I am proud to say that the hospital organization that I have worked for, for 11 years is sponsoring a trip to bring my charity, Stand for the Silent to my hometown!!! After tons of emails, meetings with human resource personnel, strategic planning and finance managers, we have finally set the dates to have Kirk Smalley come to Roanoke, VA!!! Kirk is the father of Ty Smalley, the 11 year old little Oklahoma boy who committed suicide after being bullied for two years by a classmate. Kirk will visit 5 schools to share his story and help make a difference in the lives of children and help draw awareness to the effects that bullying can cause. We are also working together to create a “town hall meeting” and finding programs to help the school nurses my hospital places within these schools to gain continuing education to better handle bullying not only from the victims but the bullies as well. I have never been more proud to work for my hospital.” Changing lives in the communities we serve “ is our motto…….I conquer…. Yes we are!!!! Please visitwww.standforthesilent.org to learn more or to help with such a great cause!!!!
Next month promises to be another busy, but fun month as I am set to travel to Monroe, Louisiana, Maryland, Harrisonburg, VA, Godfrey’s in Richmond, VA , and to Miss USofA in Dallas ,TX to see Shae Shae La Reese stepdown!!!!
This month I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” to share with you. If you would like to be featured in next month’s newsletter, please message me with your question by the 10 th of the month at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com
Dear Jessica,
Hi, my name is “D” and I am 16 years old. I live in a small town in Nebraska and I came across you on the Miss America website. I really enjoy reading your news letters and seeing your pictures. My question is, How do you come out to someone? I am very closeted and have never told anyone I’m gay. I feel like I’m ready to have this bolder lifted from my shoulders, but don’t know how to or what to say, especially to my mom and dad. Any advice would be great. Enjoy your year!!
D
Dear “D”,
Thank you so much for reaching out to me with this question. The answer is not so easy though. Every situation is different. With you being 16 you must make sure that you’re coming out won’t displace you. Not all parents are understanding and will act in a way that we hope for. I know the text book answer is to come out and be who you are requardless the consequence. But, I won’t lie to you. From as far back as I can remember, I always knew I was “different”. I knew I wasn’t like the other little boys in my family and that God made me different. I also knew that being gay was not always accepted. I remember being called” sissy” by my Dad and uncle. I remember being told at 5 years old” gay people die from AIDS and go to hell” from family members. I remember at times feeling embarrassed of who I was and not chasing dreams of being in school plays, or going to school events or to raise my hand and ask questions in class, for I feared people would make fun of the way I talked or know my secret. So, for the most part of my childhood I hid who I really was from everyone. I played the part that society deems normal and tried at best to slide under the radar. When asked if I was gay, I lied. It wasn’t until a year into college and living on my own that I finally came out to my family. I told my sister 1st, who then broke the ice with my mom and the rest of my family. Luckily for me, my family for the most part accepted me and didn’t treat me different. I had graduated high school, was in college, and doing well for myself. Pair that with a society that is becoming more accepting, my coming out wasn’t too life changing. I had the attitude that I had come and done so much on my own in my own life that if someone didn’t agree or want to be a part of my life, then it was their lost. Fast forward to now, almost 15 years later, the family members that means most to me, all support me. They treat me as an equal and the gay issue isn’t even relevant. I’m simply “me”. My advice to you is to feel YOUR situation out. Make sure that your wellbeing or welfare will not be jeopardized at the age of 16. Remember, there is no time limit when you have to come out. It’s a personal decision that must happen when you’re ready 100%. I will say to remember that even though it is hard for you to come out, it may and most likely will be hard for the person you’re telling as well. So when you’re ready, be gentle with your delivery, especially with your parents, and understand it may take some time for them to come around and understand of accept it. If they ever do?? Allow them to ask questions. Furthermore, when the time is right for you to come out, I strongly believe you will feel a peace and that you can finally start living for real. I wish you nothing but the best and I hate that you are dealing with this at such a young age, when you should be worrying about getting your driver’s license, a job, or plans for college. I hope in the near future society comes full circle and something so in important as sexuality doesn’t measure the worth of someone. Please keep me posted! Now if you are thinking about doing drag…… well then we have a whole other monster to tackle!!! Haha =)
Best wishes,
Jessica
In closing, I want to thank all those people who are coming out to the pageants and shows that I have been to. Without your support and interest we would not be able to do what we do. The art form of female impersonation seems to be back on track. Shows and clubs are started to build back up again and the world of pageantry is in full force. It excites me to witness the growth of this industry on so many different levels. I have dedicated and lived so much of my life for female impersonation, but strongly believe that the rewards and opportunities have made the journey well worth it.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
This past month has been a VERY busy one on so many levels for me. I attended 2 multi day state preliminaries, visited family for Easter, finalized some charity work for my platform- Stand for the Silent, advanced my credentials for my “real” job, and took in some regular show bookings. Whew!!! Even I shock myself how I do it and not slight one area for another. I’ve always been a person who stays busy and gets bored easily if I’m not on the go.
My first stop this month was in Richmond, VA to visit my family at Godfrey’s for a whole weekend. By the end of the weekend I had completed a Saturday morning brunch show, a Saturday dinner show, a Saturday night “Pump” show, and a double Sunday brunch show. I had the honor to work with some of my favs, Alvion, Heaven Leigh, Jeff Willis, Chanttenah, and, Natasha. Thank you all and the staff of Godfrey’s for always treating me like family.
My next stop was to St. Louis, Missouri for my first state prelim. It was so nice to return to the city where my dream of becoming Miss Gay America happened! Miss Missouri is a state pageant that has been around for many years and so many of the formers are very hands on and deeply cherish the heritage and the legacy of the pageant. The Missouri Board of Directors did an incredible job producing a beautiful contest. Thank you Jade Sinclair, Sparkles, Omelio, Daniel, and Athena for all your hard work and love for MGA and Miss Missouri! Sixteen contestants qualified from all the Show me state. After 3 days of competition Adria Andrews was crowned the new Miss Gay Missouri, with Taylor Madison Monroe as 1st alternate. Both ladies did a fabulous job and will represent the Missouri franchise well at MGA in Nashville, in October. While in St. Louis I was so happy to catch up with Illinois promoters Chad and Kurt, Josh Brown, James Metcalf, Colin Murphy, Chris Sutton, Vicki Valentino, Larry Tyger, and Chuck Guthrie. Congrats to Christa Collins on a great year as Miss Missouri 2013 and for being a shining example of excellence.
My next visit was back home to visit family in West VA for Easter. I always enjoy visiting my sister, nephew, and grandparents. They live only 2 hours and 15 mins away from where I live in VA, but with everything going this year our time together is not as much as I would like. Growing up I was always a “Grandma’s boy”….I guess you could still say that. Last month my Grandma had a short hospital stay and was transferred to the hospital I work at. I was relieved she was at my place of work so I could check in on her throughout my shifts. The last night she was there, I went up to visit her before I went home. I cleaned her dentures (she was too embarrassed to ask the nurses), tucked her in, and made sure she had water by her bed. As I was leaving, she told me that my cousin Jaime was with the ambulance crew that brought her to Roanoke and that Jaime told her she was happy she would be in my hospital and I could stay with her. My grandma told her that I would be there as soon as I got home from Nashville ( I was at Miss Mid America) and that I had won “The Big One”. As I left her side that night, she told me she was proud of me with a sound in her voice that I never heard before. It saddens me to see her and my grandfather age, as they have always been mine and my sister’s rock and I know the inevitable will come. Just as I would like to pump the breaks on my reign as MGA, I feel the same about life. Being a health care worker you see and learn things that make you cherish and appreciate the gift of life. If you take anything from this month’s newsletter, remember that our time here is not promised and that it can be taken away at any moment. Try to be your personal best and take the time to love and enjoy the ones that mean most to you.
Somehow, someway in the midst of all my traveling, working, and preparing for my journey as the reigning Symbol of Excellence, I found time to study for my CAT scan registry. I am proud to say I passed!!!! Bring on the pay raise and the extra letters following my last name on my work badge!!! I was always smart to make sure to take care of the life of “Billy” 1st without compromising my long term career and future for my love for the art form. Fortunately, for me I was able to balance my career and the level of performing/competing that I do without slighting one for the other. It has not been exactly easy, but I’m proud to say I’m exactly where I saw myself, 10 years ago. Most jobs in the art form don’t come with benefits, retirement plans, or guaranteed regular pay checks, so I urge all my sisters old or new to plan for the future and take care of the boy under the make-up!!!
Finally, I made my way to Baltimore, Maryland for my second state preliminary. Promoter Chuck Bowers did an excellent job producing a fabulous contest. He was assisted by the reigning Miss Maryland, Araya Sparxx. Araya‘s theme was Legally Blonde and I was so honored to play a part in her opening. Araya too, was another shining example of Excellence all year, as she traveled all over Maryland overseeing the city prelims. Fourteen unique contestants came to battle for the crown, after 3 days of competition Alondra Sanchez was name the new Miss Gay Maryland, and Miss D Meaner as her 1st alternate. Both will be great assets to the 2015 Miss Gay America pageant contest roster!!! While in Maryland I got to catch up with Head Judge/Forever MGA- Sabrina White, Forever MGA Coco Montrese, Larry Tyger, Duwanna Moore, Ashley Banks, Nicole James, Terry Eason, WV promoter- Coby Myers, NorthEast promoters Tom Kinnier and Eric Brown, Sarah Molina and so may MGA sisters, mostly former Miss Maryland’s! Special thanks to Christina Davis for being a lifesaver all weekend, as she helped dress me, pick up food, sell raffle tickets for my charity, and keep me company. I’m not sure of any “real” girl out there who loves MGA more!!! Thank you for all you do for our family!!!! Much love!!! Also, thank you Chuck Bowers for my beautiful fuchsia and black necklace set from Las Vega Costumes!!! Mark Martin… thank you so much for my orange and pink set, MGA ring, and for transporting a ton of luggage for me back home! Chi Chi- thank you for driving me around!!! I had an incredible time at Maryland and one of the highlights was when all 14 contestants presented me with gifts that represented them or their home state. I was so surprised and humbled by their generosity. I was given gift cards, snacks, jewels, stuffed animals, jewelry boxes, sports items, and the list goes on! Thank you guys so much….I was truly touched!!!
This month I was able to finalize something I have been working on since winning MGA in October. I am proud to say that the hospital organization that I have worked for, for 11 years is sponsoring a trip to bring my charity, Stand for the Silent to my hometown!!! After tons of emails, meetings with human resource personnel, strategic planning and finance managers, we have finally set the dates to have Kirk Smalley come to Roanoke, VA!!! Kirk is the father of Ty Smalley, the 11 year old little Oklahoma boy who committed suicide after being bullied for two years by a classmate. Kirk will visit 5 schools to share his story and help make a difference in the lives of children and help draw awareness to the effects that bullying can cause. We are also working together to create a “town hall meeting” and finding programs to help the school nurses my hospital places within these schools to gain continuing education to better handle bullying not only from the victims but the bullies as well. I have never been more proud to work for my hospital.” Changing lives in the communities we serve “ is our motto…….I conquer…. Yes we are!!!! Please visitwww.standforthesilent.org to learn more or to help with such a great cause!!!!
Next month promises to be another busy, but fun month as I am set to travel to Monroe, Louisiana, Maryland, Harrisonburg, VA, Godfrey’s in Richmond, VA , and to Miss USofA in Dallas ,TX to see Shae Shae La Reese stepdown!!!!
This month I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” to share with you. If you would like to be featured in next month’s newsletter, please message me with your question by the 10 th of the month at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com
Dear Jessica,
Hi, my name is “D” and I am 16 years old. I live in a small town in Nebraska and I came across you on the Miss America website. I really enjoy reading your news letters and seeing your pictures. My question is, How do you come out to someone? I am very closeted and have never told anyone I’m gay. I feel like I’m ready to have this bolder lifted from my shoulders, but don’t know how to or what to say, especially to my mom and dad. Any advice would be great. Enjoy your year!!
D
Dear “D”,
Thank you so much for reaching out to me with this question. The answer is not so easy though. Every situation is different. With you being 16 you must make sure that you’re coming out won’t displace you. Not all parents are understanding and will act in a way that we hope for. I know the text book answer is to come out and be who you are requardless the consequence. But, I won’t lie to you. From as far back as I can remember, I always knew I was “different”. I knew I wasn’t like the other little boys in my family and that God made me different. I also knew that being gay was not always accepted. I remember being called” sissy” by my Dad and uncle. I remember being told at 5 years old” gay people die from AIDS and go to hell” from family members. I remember at times feeling embarrassed of who I was and not chasing dreams of being in school plays, or going to school events or to raise my hand and ask questions in class, for I feared people would make fun of the way I talked or know my secret. So, for the most part of my childhood I hid who I really was from everyone. I played the part that society deems normal and tried at best to slide under the radar. When asked if I was gay, I lied. It wasn’t until a year into college and living on my own that I finally came out to my family. I told my sister 1st, who then broke the ice with my mom and the rest of my family. Luckily for me, my family for the most part accepted me and didn’t treat me different. I had graduated high school, was in college, and doing well for myself. Pair that with a society that is becoming more accepting, my coming out wasn’t too life changing. I had the attitude that I had come and done so much on my own in my own life that if someone didn’t agree or want to be a part of my life, then it was their lost. Fast forward to now, almost 15 years later, the family members that means most to me, all support me. They treat me as an equal and the gay issue isn’t even relevant. I’m simply “me”. My advice to you is to feel YOUR situation out. Make sure that your wellbeing or welfare will not be jeopardized at the age of 16. Remember, there is no time limit when you have to come out. It’s a personal decision that must happen when you’re ready 100%. I will say to remember that even though it is hard for you to come out, it may and most likely will be hard for the person you’re telling as well. So when you’re ready, be gentle with your delivery, especially with your parents, and understand it may take some time for them to come around and understand of accept it. If they ever do?? Allow them to ask questions. Furthermore, when the time is right for you to come out, I strongly believe you will feel a peace and that you can finally start living for real. I wish you nothing but the best and I hate that you are dealing with this at such a young age, when you should be worrying about getting your driver’s license, a job, or plans for college. I hope in the near future society comes full circle and something so in important as sexuality doesn’t measure the worth of someone. Please keep me posted! Now if you are thinking about doing drag…… well then we have a whole other monster to tackle!!! Haha =)
Best wishes,
Jessica
In closing, I want to thank all those people who are coming out to the pageants and shows that I have been to. Without your support and interest we would not be able to do what we do. The art form of female impersonation seems to be back on track. Shows and clubs are started to build back up again and the world of pageantry is in full force. It excites me to witness the growth of this industry on so many different levels. I have dedicated and lived so much of my life for female impersonation, but strongly believe that the rewards and opportunities have made the journey well worth it.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
June 2014
Summer is heating things up and so is the world of pageantry! The past month has been very exciting, as I have overseen two prelims to Miss Gay America 2015, spectated Miss Gay USofA, and took in some additional bookings. It is amazing to travel to so many parts of the country and experience how different the styles of female impersonation is, the make-up techniques, hair styles, and the types of musical selections/numbers entertainers choose to perform. I am so humbled by all the opportunities the art form and being Miss Gay America has given me. Even though all the traveling can be tiring and has wrecked my allergies, I wouldn’t trade a moment. I am living a dream that so many have aspired to live, and only a select few have been given. Being “national” does come with countless perks. However, the ultimate rewards rest in seeing others achieve their dreams and goals, and witness the fire, passion, and love that drives others, be it, contestants, promoters, back up dancers/helpers, dressers, or pageant supporters to be the best they can be. The human spirit is a beautiful thing!!!
My first stop this month was to Monroe, Louisiana! Two time MGA promoter of the year David Green arranged for a great weekend of celebration for Miss Gay Southern Elegance. David’s nephew, Philip was a great help as he picked me up from the airport. Philip was involved in a car wreck just hours before my arrival to Monroe. Luckily, he and his vehicle were fine!!! Philip also transitioned into “Vandalia Onion” and helped sell raffle tickets for my charity, Stand for the Silent at the prelim. This was his first time in illusion, and I must say he makes a beautiful lady! It makes me sentimental when I see new blood in the industry and reminds me of my start and how hard it was to get noticed and to learn all the ins and outs. I had the pleasure to perform at The Corner Bar my first night in Monroe. I was joined by Dextaci (Miss Southern Elegance 2013) Forever MGA 2013- Sally Sparkles, and Josalyn Royale. Thank you Momma Deb for booking me. I had a fabulous time and made several new friends!! The next day was all business, as Miss Gay Southern Elegance was underway. I am a former MGSEA and know just how special David is as a promoter and a friend. He did an excellent job taking care of the 4 contestants that showed up to battle for their spots to MGA 2015. The pageant took place at Club Pink. The staff and audience were great and all 4 contestants did an entertaining job putting on a wonderful pageant. In the end Chi Chi Ray Colby took top honors, and Chelsea Devine as 1st alternate. I know both will do a great job on “Team Green” and do well at MGA. Special shout outs to Kyle, Sasha Lee Chambers, Chloe, Jeff Coble, Eric Gabbard, and Edie for making my trip even sweeter!
My next visit was to The Lodge in Boonsboro, Maryland for Miss Eastern States America. Promoters Eric Gabbard and Michael Sergio did an excellent job as new promoters for MGA!!! Three fabulous contestants showed up to get their spots to MGA 2015. After a great contest, Araya Sparxx was named Miss Eastern States and Truly Fabu as 1st alternate. I had the pleasure to catch up with Forever MGA –Sabrina White and soon to be husband Joel, Ashley Banks, Nicole James, Mark Martin, Jeff Coble, Reigning Miss Gay Maryland- Alondra Sanchez, Newly crowned Miss Gay Southern Elegance- Chi Chi Ray Colby, Northeast Promoter Tom and Eric, Nic, Chasity Vain, Stephanie Micheals, Terry Eason, Coby Myers, Dezi, and so many other of my Maryland friends. The pageant ran very well and set a record by being over in 3 hrs and 45 mins! Haha I was able to de-drag after my MGA duties and dance and cut up a bit with Sabrina, Christina, Joel, and Nic. I enjoyed dancing to the “Selfie” song with you guys, even though that song drives me bananas!!! Thank you Eric for the Ooey gooey Paula Dean butter cake!!! It was DELCIOUS!!!
I also was able to travel to Harrisonburg, Virginia this month and entertain with my H-burg sisters at the Artful Dodger. It was so nice visiting with Max, Kayla Kelly, Bianca, Jayda, Chad, Jessica, Gabby, and Rob !!! I have missed you guys so much! Thank you for treating me like royalty! I always have a great time reminiscing about the “old days” at the UCT Hall! Special thanks to my roommate Kirk and his boyfriend Joe for coming to visit to keep me company!!!
My next trip was to Dallas, Texas to watch Miss Gay USofA!! I have had the honor to work several times with Shae Shae Lareese this year and there was no way I was going to miss her step down. Shae Shae did an incredible job representing her title this year as he has traveled extensively and presented a wardrobe that would make the greatest fashionista jealous! 41 contestants competed for the title of Miss Gay USofA 2015. At the end of a VERY exciting pageant, Jenna Skyy ‘s dream was realized. I am so happy and proud of him!!!! Jenna and I met at MGA a couple of years ago and she is one powerful competitor. He will do the USofA family proud, I just know it!!! I was honored to walk across the USofA stage representing Miss Gay America during the national walk. It did my heart good to feel such a warm welcome from the USofA family and fans. I was star struck to meet and reconnect with so many entertainers/fans while at US of A. Layla Larue, Tommie Ross, Kelexis, Cheville, Dana Douglas, Jennifer Warner, Alyssa, Blake, Brent Silvers, Sally Sparkles, Lauren Taylor, Catia Lee Love, Darryl, Malaya Chanel,Big Shirley, Eden Parque Devine, Luscious, Kelly, Miss Tillie, Daniel, Tyra, Symphony,and Alina Maletti. The highlight of my trip was spending time with my “drag baby” Arcasia Xavier. She just made a permanent move to Texas and I was happy to spend some quality time together. We shopped, ate, had margaritas, ate, played in makeup, ate, laughed a lot, and did I mention ate??? We always have a great time together and I wish her the best of luck as she continues on the path of life to find happiness and success. Joe Leigh (Arcasia) taught me early on in our knowing of one another that regardless what the world thinks, one should always do whatever necessary to feel comfortable in their own skin. Arcasia has been transitioning for quite some time and I can say that he is not the shy, scared, lost little boy I met so many years ago, who was in hiding. She is now a confident, secure, lady who knows what she wants, just needs a little push to get there. I love my Joe Leigh!! My time is Dallas was eye opening. I was very inspired at Miss USofA and I thought that my days of competing on the national level would be over after my reign as MGA 2014………… I’m not so sure now………………………
I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” question to share with you this month. If you would like to submit a question to me to be featured on next month’s newsletter, please submit by the 10th of this month to jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com
Dear Jessica,
First, let me start by saying what a pleasure was to finally get to meet you and talk to you during Miss Gay Missouri in April after seeing you being crowned Miss Gay America in the same city month before. It was a delight watching you entertain and perform your administrator duties.
Those of us that check the great resources on the MGA website often know that there are great articles for each category and an article on being a good judge. If you had to address a dresser for a contestant in a similar way, what would you say makes a good dresser? What criteria a contestant should look in a dresser?
Thanks.
Regards,
Lola Vergara
Dear Lola,
Thank you for the message and this great question!!! I’ve always said,” It takes an army to make a queen!” The dressers, especially during pageantry are fundamental components to a successful competition. I personally think that a good dresser is someone who ultimately believes in you and your vision/dream. They should be there to support you 110%. It should be someone who is versed and knowledgeable in the world of female impersonation and the workings of pageantry. They should be organized; detail oriented, energetic, able to follow directions, able to function under stress, able to stay focused, and be honest. They should be able to tell you if something doesn’t look exactly right. They should be there for YOU! They should be very attentive to you and your needs, not disappearing to watch the pageant or playing on their phones, or taking pics with the “stars” at the pageant. A good dresser wakes up early and makes sure your interview suit is steamed and pressed. They know how to pack your make up box up, so that when you open it a week later everything is where it belongs. They will not cause any drama in the dressing room and will keep a watchful eye over your things. Finally, a good dresser is someone that when you lose, they will have all your things packed up, ready to go, and will allow you to vent to them on that ride home, without judging you, then call you the next day and tell you what you did wrong to not win! A GOOD dresser is hard to find. I suggest “auditioning” potential dressers. See who you work best with and possesses all the qualities and skills that will help you be your best as you compete. Sometimes it may not be a friend, but a hired professional. A good dresser can be trained though. So if someone shows promise and potential, work with them, to be what you need!
Jessica
Nest month promises to be very busy as I am set to visit California, Atlanta, Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Orleans! I am thrilled to pieces to be on this journey and am so grateful for all the wonderful people who are sharing it with me. I would like to leave you all with a quote that has followed me for many years. “What is right is not always popular, and what is popular is not always right”. Please try to be and stay your personal best. A little bit of class goes a long way. I get so irritated seeing and hearing all the negativity within our community, especially on social network sites. Don’t feed into it and stay focused on what’s important and keep your eyes on your dreams, not the foolishness that won’t be relevant days from now.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
My first stop this month was to Monroe, Louisiana! Two time MGA promoter of the year David Green arranged for a great weekend of celebration for Miss Gay Southern Elegance. David’s nephew, Philip was a great help as he picked me up from the airport. Philip was involved in a car wreck just hours before my arrival to Monroe. Luckily, he and his vehicle were fine!!! Philip also transitioned into “Vandalia Onion” and helped sell raffle tickets for my charity, Stand for the Silent at the prelim. This was his first time in illusion, and I must say he makes a beautiful lady! It makes me sentimental when I see new blood in the industry and reminds me of my start and how hard it was to get noticed and to learn all the ins and outs. I had the pleasure to perform at The Corner Bar my first night in Monroe. I was joined by Dextaci (Miss Southern Elegance 2013) Forever MGA 2013- Sally Sparkles, and Josalyn Royale. Thank you Momma Deb for booking me. I had a fabulous time and made several new friends!! The next day was all business, as Miss Gay Southern Elegance was underway. I am a former MGSEA and know just how special David is as a promoter and a friend. He did an excellent job taking care of the 4 contestants that showed up to battle for their spots to MGA 2015. The pageant took place at Club Pink. The staff and audience were great and all 4 contestants did an entertaining job putting on a wonderful pageant. In the end Chi Chi Ray Colby took top honors, and Chelsea Devine as 1st alternate. I know both will do a great job on “Team Green” and do well at MGA. Special shout outs to Kyle, Sasha Lee Chambers, Chloe, Jeff Coble, Eric Gabbard, and Edie for making my trip even sweeter!
My next visit was to The Lodge in Boonsboro, Maryland for Miss Eastern States America. Promoters Eric Gabbard and Michael Sergio did an excellent job as new promoters for MGA!!! Three fabulous contestants showed up to get their spots to MGA 2015. After a great contest, Araya Sparxx was named Miss Eastern States and Truly Fabu as 1st alternate. I had the pleasure to catch up with Forever MGA –Sabrina White and soon to be husband Joel, Ashley Banks, Nicole James, Mark Martin, Jeff Coble, Reigning Miss Gay Maryland- Alondra Sanchez, Newly crowned Miss Gay Southern Elegance- Chi Chi Ray Colby, Northeast Promoter Tom and Eric, Nic, Chasity Vain, Stephanie Micheals, Terry Eason, Coby Myers, Dezi, and so many other of my Maryland friends. The pageant ran very well and set a record by being over in 3 hrs and 45 mins! Haha I was able to de-drag after my MGA duties and dance and cut up a bit with Sabrina, Christina, Joel, and Nic. I enjoyed dancing to the “Selfie” song with you guys, even though that song drives me bananas!!! Thank you Eric for the Ooey gooey Paula Dean butter cake!!! It was DELCIOUS!!!
I also was able to travel to Harrisonburg, Virginia this month and entertain with my H-burg sisters at the Artful Dodger. It was so nice visiting with Max, Kayla Kelly, Bianca, Jayda, Chad, Jessica, Gabby, and Rob !!! I have missed you guys so much! Thank you for treating me like royalty! I always have a great time reminiscing about the “old days” at the UCT Hall! Special thanks to my roommate Kirk and his boyfriend Joe for coming to visit to keep me company!!!
My next trip was to Dallas, Texas to watch Miss Gay USofA!! I have had the honor to work several times with Shae Shae Lareese this year and there was no way I was going to miss her step down. Shae Shae did an incredible job representing her title this year as he has traveled extensively and presented a wardrobe that would make the greatest fashionista jealous! 41 contestants competed for the title of Miss Gay USofA 2015. At the end of a VERY exciting pageant, Jenna Skyy ‘s dream was realized. I am so happy and proud of him!!!! Jenna and I met at MGA a couple of years ago and she is one powerful competitor. He will do the USofA family proud, I just know it!!! I was honored to walk across the USofA stage representing Miss Gay America during the national walk. It did my heart good to feel such a warm welcome from the USofA family and fans. I was star struck to meet and reconnect with so many entertainers/fans while at US of A. Layla Larue, Tommie Ross, Kelexis, Cheville, Dana Douglas, Jennifer Warner, Alyssa, Blake, Brent Silvers, Sally Sparkles, Lauren Taylor, Catia Lee Love, Darryl, Malaya Chanel,Big Shirley, Eden Parque Devine, Luscious, Kelly, Miss Tillie, Daniel, Tyra, Symphony,and Alina Maletti. The highlight of my trip was spending time with my “drag baby” Arcasia Xavier. She just made a permanent move to Texas and I was happy to spend some quality time together. We shopped, ate, had margaritas, ate, played in makeup, ate, laughed a lot, and did I mention ate??? We always have a great time together and I wish her the best of luck as she continues on the path of life to find happiness and success. Joe Leigh (Arcasia) taught me early on in our knowing of one another that regardless what the world thinks, one should always do whatever necessary to feel comfortable in their own skin. Arcasia has been transitioning for quite some time and I can say that he is not the shy, scared, lost little boy I met so many years ago, who was in hiding. She is now a confident, secure, lady who knows what she wants, just needs a little push to get there. I love my Joe Leigh!! My time is Dallas was eye opening. I was very inspired at Miss USofA and I thought that my days of competing on the national level would be over after my reign as MGA 2014………… I’m not so sure now………………………
I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” question to share with you this month. If you would like to submit a question to me to be featured on next month’s newsletter, please submit by the 10th of this month to jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com
Dear Jessica,
First, let me start by saying what a pleasure was to finally get to meet you and talk to you during Miss Gay Missouri in April after seeing you being crowned Miss Gay America in the same city month before. It was a delight watching you entertain and perform your administrator duties.
Those of us that check the great resources on the MGA website often know that there are great articles for each category and an article on being a good judge. If you had to address a dresser for a contestant in a similar way, what would you say makes a good dresser? What criteria a contestant should look in a dresser?
Thanks.
Regards,
Lola Vergara
Dear Lola,
Thank you for the message and this great question!!! I’ve always said,” It takes an army to make a queen!” The dressers, especially during pageantry are fundamental components to a successful competition. I personally think that a good dresser is someone who ultimately believes in you and your vision/dream. They should be there to support you 110%. It should be someone who is versed and knowledgeable in the world of female impersonation and the workings of pageantry. They should be organized; detail oriented, energetic, able to follow directions, able to function under stress, able to stay focused, and be honest. They should be able to tell you if something doesn’t look exactly right. They should be there for YOU! They should be very attentive to you and your needs, not disappearing to watch the pageant or playing on their phones, or taking pics with the “stars” at the pageant. A good dresser wakes up early and makes sure your interview suit is steamed and pressed. They know how to pack your make up box up, so that when you open it a week later everything is where it belongs. They will not cause any drama in the dressing room and will keep a watchful eye over your things. Finally, a good dresser is someone that when you lose, they will have all your things packed up, ready to go, and will allow you to vent to them on that ride home, without judging you, then call you the next day and tell you what you did wrong to not win! A GOOD dresser is hard to find. I suggest “auditioning” potential dressers. See who you work best with and possesses all the qualities and skills that will help you be your best as you compete. Sometimes it may not be a friend, but a hired professional. A good dresser can be trained though. So if someone shows promise and potential, work with them, to be what you need!
Jessica
Nest month promises to be very busy as I am set to visit California, Atlanta, Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Orleans! I am thrilled to pieces to be on this journey and am so grateful for all the wonderful people who are sharing it with me. I would like to leave you all with a quote that has followed me for many years. “What is right is not always popular, and what is popular is not always right”. Please try to be and stay your personal best. A little bit of class goes a long way. I get so irritated seeing and hearing all the negativity within our community, especially on social network sites. Don’t feed into it and stay focused on what’s important and keep your eyes on your dreams, not the foolishness that won’t be relevant days from now.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
July 2014
It's hard to believe that in less than 4 months the new Miss Gay America will be crowned in Nashville, TN. The saying “time flies when you’re having fun” is so very true. However, fun would be an understatement; as I have had the time of my life so far reigning as MGA!!! With each visit to another city in this beautiful country we live in, I am more and more amazed on just how spectacular the world is out there. While growing up my family and I never really did “big” family vacations. In fact the first time I ever put my feet in the sand of a beach was in 8th grade on a choir field trip and my first time I flew in an airplane, I was 23 and Miss Gay United States traveling to Wisconsin to oversee a prelim there. It wasn’t that my family didn’t have the finances to take trips. I think they just became comfortable with the norm and familiarity of our everyday life and the unknown didn’t intrigue them. I will always be grateful for all the opportunities I have been afforded by my association with the art form and for my year as MGA. The places I have traveled and all the wonderful people I have met have made the 10 year journey of competing and all the sacrifices seem insignificant. I urge everyone reading this newsletter to get out there!! Take advantage of this world we live in. Do you want to be one of those people who live life with regret? Who only skim the surface of life, or do you want to dig deep and truly LIVE? As we celebrate our countries Independence this Fourth of July, wear your red, white, blue, and stripes with pride!!! We do live in a country full of opportunity and resources to make dreams come true!
This past month has been a VERY busy month to say the least. I had the pleasure to oversee 5 preliminaries to the 2015 Miss Gay America pageant, take in some additional bookings, and continue to raise money for my charity- Stand for the Silent.
My first visit this month was to Godfrey’s in Richmond, VA for a double brunch show. Godfrey’s will always be one of my favorite places to perform, as the energy is unreal. The audience almost always consist of mostly tipsy rich women celebrating getting married, baby showers, or retirements. This show included my beautiful “maw” Dana St. James, Forever MGA- Kirby Kolby, and former Miss NC America – Emory Starr. To round out the cast, we were kept in stitches laughing by emcee/show director Jeff Willis. Thank you guys for a wonderful show and letting me be a part of the North Carolina invasion!
My next trip was to California! I treated myself to a mini vacation just before the prelim in California. I had never been there before so I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to visit the places there I’ve only seen on TV. I was joined this trip by my crazy side kick, Frankie aka Biscuits. We spent three days in LA doing the tourist “thing”. We took a tour and saw the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Madame Tussuads Wax Museum, The Chinese theater, Venus Beach, The Hollywood Sign, Rodeo Drive, The hotel where Whitney Houston passed, the building where most all movie and television contracts are signed, and even took in dinner at Sur (the chic restaurant owned by Lisa Vander Pump from Bravo’s Real Housewives of Beverly Hills). What a great kick off to my trip to California! Not to mention, that Pride celebrations were starting that weekend in LA, so as you could imagine the city was very “colorful”!! After 3 days in LA we booked a flight to San Francisco, where we spent a night out with Paju Munro- Miss Gay California 2013, his roommate, my Miss Gay United States sister- Mercedes Munroe and a few of their friends. Mercedes started the evening off by preparing us a unique and tasty dinner. Then they took us on a tour of the city. I don’t think I have ever hit so many bars in one night!! I‘m so happy I got to spend some time with Paju, he is a very sweet and genuine person with a huge heart. I hope he returns to MGA!!!! Thank you Paju for the beautiful red gown gift and helping to sell raffle tickets for my Charity! The next morning Biscuits and I woke up to meet Chris Hollar, the partner of Miss Gay California America’s promoter Robb Huddleston. Chris was given the task of transporting MGA, guest, and tons of luggage to and from the city to the site of the prelim on The Russian River, a hour and half over the Golden Gate bridge into wine country. Again, breath taking views were taken in as we crossed the Golden Gate Bridge and made our way through winding roads through wine country. Robb and Chris had recently opened Bart’s! A unique show bar / restaurant in the city of Guerneville . I was so excited to see my choreographer and dear friend Alberto Aria and my wonderful dancers from years past at MGA, David and Kyle. The Chicago dance troop was in attendance as back up dancers for a contestant for Miss Gay California. It was so nice visiting with the boys on a different level. Usually we are rehearsing and preparing for MGA when we see each other. I thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with them, visiting the beach, feasting on a meal prepared by Suzy Wong, and touring the beautiful city together. A highlight of the trip was a night of Karaoke at the host hotel bar. Biscuits “won talent” as he performed “Living on a prayer” to an unexpecting audience!! Biscuits is always a good time!! The next day was all business as we started Miss Gay California America!!! Three very well rounded contestants showed up to compete for the title. After a very entertaining contest Paju crowned Kendra Monroe the new Miss California, with Suzy Wong as her 1stalternate. Unfortunately, due to a red eye flight to catch to Atlanta for Miss Southern States America , I did not get to celebrate with the girls, but had to be rushed back to San Francisco to catch my Flight. I will always remember my time in California as one of my favorite trips. I just wish there would’ve been more time to do and see more!! I hope to return one day!!!
After a 4 hour flight I woke up in Atlanta to meet David Green for his second preliminary of the 2015 MGA season, Miss Gay Southern States. I was quite exhausted but once I saw the venue, The Jungle, I was awakened with adrenaline. What a fabulous venue for a pageant!! Four very different and entertaining contestants showed up to compete for their tickets to be on “Team Green”. The reigning Miss Southern States, Arial Knight Addams did an excellence job passing on her title. Ariel is a sweet soul who is very self-sufficient in her craft, doing her own hair, makeup, and costuming…..a very talented individual!!! At the end of the contest Blair Williams took top honors with Myah Ross Monroe as 1st alternate. It was pleasure seeing so many friends in attendance- Deva Station and hubby, Mark, Makaila O’Reilly, Bruce Gilbert, Coco Cotour, Jennifer St. James, Stephanie St. James, Sasha Lee Chambers, Momma Edie, and Phillip! I was also surprised to get to catch up with my Forever MGA sister’s- Kirby Kolby, Coti Collins, Tiffany Bonet, and Blaze Starr. It is always a honor to be in the presence of those who have paved the way for so many of us in this art form!!! We took the opportunity of us all being together to send FI Icon- Lawanda Jackson a video well wish to get better, post suffering a stroke. MGA founder Mr. Jerry Peak was in attendance as well!
The next stop on my MGA tour was to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for Miss Gay Oklahoma America!! I had the pleasure to entertain in Tulsa earlier in my reign and I was very excited to return to Oklahoma, as I had such a great time before. My long time MGA buddy James Williams picked me up from the airport and got me settled in the “Gay Resort” known as the Havana. Then we were off to registration where 14 fabulous contestants awaited to kick off Miss Gay Oklahoma America. Promoter Miss Tillie Lane did an incredible job running a smooth contest. In the end Bianca Le Blanc (who I adore) crowned Renee Hilton the new MGOA, with Alysha D. Brooks as 1st alternate. While in Oklahoma I had the pleasure to catch up with some of my favorite MGA family. Mr. Kelly Howell (Who helped sell raffle tickets for my Charity), Amy Merchant, Rob, Adrienne, Todd, Pure Chocolate, Samantha West, and the ever so painted Lindsey Paige and Londenn Raine!!! I was able to do a little site seeing in between pageant duties. I visited the Oklahoma City bombing memorial. What a beautiful, peaceful experience. Some of my favorite memories from Oklahoma are the conversations shared with Miss Tillie. I could listen to him talk for hours! He has such a way with words and is so very wise!
My next visit was to Phoenix, Arizona! This was my first time visiting Arizona and I’m not sure I could ever adjust to the 109 degree heat there! Ha-ha. Promoter- Daniel Eckstrom and husband Nick took such great care of me all weekend. These two gentlemen were celebrating their one year anniversary this weekend!! What better way to celebrate a year of being married, by hosting a pageant! 8 very eager contestants had qualified via city preliminaries to compete for top honors. In the end, after a VERY close contest , Tyra Marie crowned Grecia Montes D’ Occa winner, with Savannah Stevens as her 1stalternate. While in Arizona I was able to take part in the formers review show at The Rock. The show consisted of many former Miss Arizona’s. Thank you to all the ladies for making me feel so welcomed! I especially enjoyed getting to catch up with Diva, Tyra, and Mya!!! This trio is a hoot!!! My Forever MGA sisters Charity Case, Catia Lee Love , and Makaila Kay were also in attendance. Daniel ran a beautiful, classy contest at a top notch theater and I hope to visit Arizona very soon, again!
My last stop this month was to New Orleans, Louisiana for Miss Gay Gulf States!! As expected, two time promoter of the year David Green was eagerly prepared to add two more members to Team Green. Four talented entertainers showed up to compete for their tickets to MGA 2015! After an entertaining contest, Jessica Raines Starr crowned Dextaci the new MGGSA, with Jayda Iman Alexander her 1st alternate. I have now been to New Orleans a couple of times, and as always I thoroughly enjoyed myself. The city is so rich with culture. The pageant was held at Mags, a unique bar/ bed and breakfast/ café. My sleeping quarters were fit for a queen! Pink walls with 18 foot ceilings, absolutely gorgeous! While in New Orleans, I got to visit with some of my favorites!! Theo, Josh Richardson, Moma Edie, Moma Deb, ALL of team DEX, David Antoinette, Chelsea, Bj , CJ, Aubrey Sinclaire, Dominique Delorean, Delanie, Blake, Coby, Chad, Anthony Ryan from Project Runway, Tiffany Alexander, JC Romero, and one of my inspirations – Kirby Kolby! I was in New Orleans for a whole 28 hours before I returned home for a week back to work!! I am so looking forward to returning in August as Miss Gay Mississippi will be hosted at Mags!!
Next month will be just as busy for Miss Gay America. I am set to visit Scorpios in Charlotte, NC to celebrate the fourth and later in the month in Dallas, Texas at The Rose Room! Also, I will oversee Miss Pennsylvania, Miss Mid Atlantic, Miss Ohio, Miss Texas, and Miss Louisiana!
This month I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” to share with you. If you would like to submit a question, to be featured on next months “Dear Jessica” section of my newsletter, please email to me by the 10th of the month to jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com.
Dear Jessica,
I saw that you did the national walk at Miss Gay USofA this year, which is great! I think all the systems should support each other. Since that pageant, several of the contestants and even the relinquishing titleholder went on to compete for other titles, even another national title just days or weeks following. How do you feel about that? Do you think it’s greedy or shows no true commitment to their titles/ quest?
Best wishes for continued success in your reign,
Too many crown chasers.
Dear Too Many Crown Chasers,
I had a fabulous time representing MGA at Miss US of A this year. The US of A family treated me very well and made me feel so welcomed. I had a great time at the pageant and totally agree with you, that all the systems in the world of female impersonation should support one another. I’ve always said “we are all in this together”. We have to support each system to keep the art form alive. To answer your question… I think the important thing to remember about pageantry is that for some entertainers, it is business. This is how they promote themselves or how they make a living. While I personally don’t think I could financially, physically, or mentally compete for more than one national title at a time, I don’t judge the girls that do. If they have the resources, passion, drive, and the opportunity to compete in more than one system a year, go for it!!! Why limit yourself? There are so many great systems/ pageants out there that represent great promoters, legacies, and pieces of history. However, I would suggest to choose wisely and if a pageant is known for being big on commitment. You may want to prove your loyalty to that system before you pageant hop. Winning titles ultimately come down to a judge’s panel. If that panel misreads your willingness to multi- compete in contest, you may be labeled greedy or crown hungry. I suggest making a list of titles you wish to hold…rank them in order as you would like to win, then compete.
Great question!
Jessica
This month has been a very busy one, but I loved every minute of it! Thank you to all the promoters, their families and friends, the pageant supporters, and fans for always making me feel special and welcomed in your homes and cities. Before I leave you all this month, I’d like to share a moment with you that kind of made reality set in, of how important these preliminaries mean to us. At one of my prelims this month, I witnessed very heightened contrasted emotions between competing contestants. At the end of the pageant two very strong, qualified contestants stood hand in hand waiting for the name of the winner to be called and the other as the 1st alternate. As the winners name was called, he jumped so high the curls in his up do loosened and fell, he screamed so loud you could hear him outside, his boyfriends eyes filled with tears from the audience, and he was immediately embraced by many to congratulate his victory, all before the crown was placed on his head. In the midst of all this, I could see out of the corner of my eye, a tearful, shaking, obviously broken 1st alternate, surrounded by formers, and other contestants, trying to console him. He was rushed off stage to a dark corner. I soon left the stage to find him. As I stepped behind the stage curtains I could hear him crying so loud, almost not able to catch his breath, before I even saw him. He was surrounded by his team, his boyfriend, and my heart broke for him. I took his hands and told him “it’s going to be ok, I promise”. His emotions were not that of bitterness by any means. He was genuinely heart broken and I could see the hurt all over his face. I offered him a tissue to wipe his eyes, took his hand and we made our way back to the stage for pictures. He controlled his hurt and graciously congratulated the winner. To people who don’t live this life they may not understand just how important these contest become to us. How they shape us, how they become the Hallmarks of our lives, or how much we sacrifice and push ourselves to our very end limits. To date, this preliminary season a total of 75 men (on the state / regional level, not including city prelims) have competed in hopes to win the title of Miss Gay America. To all of you and those of you who will compete later in the season, Thank you. Thank you for blessing my journey as MGA. You all inspire me and continue to drive me to be my best and never lose faith in the power of the human spirit.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
This past month has been a VERY busy month to say the least. I had the pleasure to oversee 5 preliminaries to the 2015 Miss Gay America pageant, take in some additional bookings, and continue to raise money for my charity- Stand for the Silent.
My first visit this month was to Godfrey’s in Richmond, VA for a double brunch show. Godfrey’s will always be one of my favorite places to perform, as the energy is unreal. The audience almost always consist of mostly tipsy rich women celebrating getting married, baby showers, or retirements. This show included my beautiful “maw” Dana St. James, Forever MGA- Kirby Kolby, and former Miss NC America – Emory Starr. To round out the cast, we were kept in stitches laughing by emcee/show director Jeff Willis. Thank you guys for a wonderful show and letting me be a part of the North Carolina invasion!
My next trip was to California! I treated myself to a mini vacation just before the prelim in California. I had never been there before so I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to visit the places there I’ve only seen on TV. I was joined this trip by my crazy side kick, Frankie aka Biscuits. We spent three days in LA doing the tourist “thing”. We took a tour and saw the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Madame Tussuads Wax Museum, The Chinese theater, Venus Beach, The Hollywood Sign, Rodeo Drive, The hotel where Whitney Houston passed, the building where most all movie and television contracts are signed, and even took in dinner at Sur (the chic restaurant owned by Lisa Vander Pump from Bravo’s Real Housewives of Beverly Hills). What a great kick off to my trip to California! Not to mention, that Pride celebrations were starting that weekend in LA, so as you could imagine the city was very “colorful”!! After 3 days in LA we booked a flight to San Francisco, where we spent a night out with Paju Munro- Miss Gay California 2013, his roommate, my Miss Gay United States sister- Mercedes Munroe and a few of their friends. Mercedes started the evening off by preparing us a unique and tasty dinner. Then they took us on a tour of the city. I don’t think I have ever hit so many bars in one night!! I‘m so happy I got to spend some time with Paju, he is a very sweet and genuine person with a huge heart. I hope he returns to MGA!!!! Thank you Paju for the beautiful red gown gift and helping to sell raffle tickets for my Charity! The next morning Biscuits and I woke up to meet Chris Hollar, the partner of Miss Gay California America’s promoter Robb Huddleston. Chris was given the task of transporting MGA, guest, and tons of luggage to and from the city to the site of the prelim on The Russian River, a hour and half over the Golden Gate bridge into wine country. Again, breath taking views were taken in as we crossed the Golden Gate Bridge and made our way through winding roads through wine country. Robb and Chris had recently opened Bart’s! A unique show bar / restaurant in the city of Guerneville . I was so excited to see my choreographer and dear friend Alberto Aria and my wonderful dancers from years past at MGA, David and Kyle. The Chicago dance troop was in attendance as back up dancers for a contestant for Miss Gay California. It was so nice visiting with the boys on a different level. Usually we are rehearsing and preparing for MGA when we see each other. I thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with them, visiting the beach, feasting on a meal prepared by Suzy Wong, and touring the beautiful city together. A highlight of the trip was a night of Karaoke at the host hotel bar. Biscuits “won talent” as he performed “Living on a prayer” to an unexpecting audience!! Biscuits is always a good time!! The next day was all business as we started Miss Gay California America!!! Three very well rounded contestants showed up to compete for the title. After a very entertaining contest Paju crowned Kendra Monroe the new Miss California, with Suzy Wong as her 1stalternate. Unfortunately, due to a red eye flight to catch to Atlanta for Miss Southern States America , I did not get to celebrate with the girls, but had to be rushed back to San Francisco to catch my Flight. I will always remember my time in California as one of my favorite trips. I just wish there would’ve been more time to do and see more!! I hope to return one day!!!
After a 4 hour flight I woke up in Atlanta to meet David Green for his second preliminary of the 2015 MGA season, Miss Gay Southern States. I was quite exhausted but once I saw the venue, The Jungle, I was awakened with adrenaline. What a fabulous venue for a pageant!! Four very different and entertaining contestants showed up to compete for their tickets to be on “Team Green”. The reigning Miss Southern States, Arial Knight Addams did an excellence job passing on her title. Ariel is a sweet soul who is very self-sufficient in her craft, doing her own hair, makeup, and costuming…..a very talented individual!!! At the end of the contest Blair Williams took top honors with Myah Ross Monroe as 1st alternate. It was pleasure seeing so many friends in attendance- Deva Station and hubby, Mark, Makaila O’Reilly, Bruce Gilbert, Coco Cotour, Jennifer St. James, Stephanie St. James, Sasha Lee Chambers, Momma Edie, and Phillip! I was also surprised to get to catch up with my Forever MGA sister’s- Kirby Kolby, Coti Collins, Tiffany Bonet, and Blaze Starr. It is always a honor to be in the presence of those who have paved the way for so many of us in this art form!!! We took the opportunity of us all being together to send FI Icon- Lawanda Jackson a video well wish to get better, post suffering a stroke. MGA founder Mr. Jerry Peak was in attendance as well!
The next stop on my MGA tour was to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for Miss Gay Oklahoma America!! I had the pleasure to entertain in Tulsa earlier in my reign and I was very excited to return to Oklahoma, as I had such a great time before. My long time MGA buddy James Williams picked me up from the airport and got me settled in the “Gay Resort” known as the Havana. Then we were off to registration where 14 fabulous contestants awaited to kick off Miss Gay Oklahoma America. Promoter Miss Tillie Lane did an incredible job running a smooth contest. In the end Bianca Le Blanc (who I adore) crowned Renee Hilton the new MGOA, with Alysha D. Brooks as 1st alternate. While in Oklahoma I had the pleasure to catch up with some of my favorite MGA family. Mr. Kelly Howell (Who helped sell raffle tickets for my Charity), Amy Merchant, Rob, Adrienne, Todd, Pure Chocolate, Samantha West, and the ever so painted Lindsey Paige and Londenn Raine!!! I was able to do a little site seeing in between pageant duties. I visited the Oklahoma City bombing memorial. What a beautiful, peaceful experience. Some of my favorite memories from Oklahoma are the conversations shared with Miss Tillie. I could listen to him talk for hours! He has such a way with words and is so very wise!
My next visit was to Phoenix, Arizona! This was my first time visiting Arizona and I’m not sure I could ever adjust to the 109 degree heat there! Ha-ha. Promoter- Daniel Eckstrom and husband Nick took such great care of me all weekend. These two gentlemen were celebrating their one year anniversary this weekend!! What better way to celebrate a year of being married, by hosting a pageant! 8 very eager contestants had qualified via city preliminaries to compete for top honors. In the end, after a VERY close contest , Tyra Marie crowned Grecia Montes D’ Occa winner, with Savannah Stevens as her 1stalternate. While in Arizona I was able to take part in the formers review show at The Rock. The show consisted of many former Miss Arizona’s. Thank you to all the ladies for making me feel so welcomed! I especially enjoyed getting to catch up with Diva, Tyra, and Mya!!! This trio is a hoot!!! My Forever MGA sisters Charity Case, Catia Lee Love , and Makaila Kay were also in attendance. Daniel ran a beautiful, classy contest at a top notch theater and I hope to visit Arizona very soon, again!
My last stop this month was to New Orleans, Louisiana for Miss Gay Gulf States!! As expected, two time promoter of the year David Green was eagerly prepared to add two more members to Team Green. Four talented entertainers showed up to compete for their tickets to MGA 2015! After an entertaining contest, Jessica Raines Starr crowned Dextaci the new MGGSA, with Jayda Iman Alexander her 1st alternate. I have now been to New Orleans a couple of times, and as always I thoroughly enjoyed myself. The city is so rich with culture. The pageant was held at Mags, a unique bar/ bed and breakfast/ café. My sleeping quarters were fit for a queen! Pink walls with 18 foot ceilings, absolutely gorgeous! While in New Orleans, I got to visit with some of my favorites!! Theo, Josh Richardson, Moma Edie, Moma Deb, ALL of team DEX, David Antoinette, Chelsea, Bj , CJ, Aubrey Sinclaire, Dominique Delorean, Delanie, Blake, Coby, Chad, Anthony Ryan from Project Runway, Tiffany Alexander, JC Romero, and one of my inspirations – Kirby Kolby! I was in New Orleans for a whole 28 hours before I returned home for a week back to work!! I am so looking forward to returning in August as Miss Gay Mississippi will be hosted at Mags!!
Next month will be just as busy for Miss Gay America. I am set to visit Scorpios in Charlotte, NC to celebrate the fourth and later in the month in Dallas, Texas at The Rose Room! Also, I will oversee Miss Pennsylvania, Miss Mid Atlantic, Miss Ohio, Miss Texas, and Miss Louisiana!
This month I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” to share with you. If you would like to submit a question, to be featured on next months “Dear Jessica” section of my newsletter, please email to me by the 10th of the month to jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com.
Dear Jessica,
I saw that you did the national walk at Miss Gay USofA this year, which is great! I think all the systems should support each other. Since that pageant, several of the contestants and even the relinquishing titleholder went on to compete for other titles, even another national title just days or weeks following. How do you feel about that? Do you think it’s greedy or shows no true commitment to their titles/ quest?
Best wishes for continued success in your reign,
Too many crown chasers.
Dear Too Many Crown Chasers,
I had a fabulous time representing MGA at Miss US of A this year. The US of A family treated me very well and made me feel so welcomed. I had a great time at the pageant and totally agree with you, that all the systems in the world of female impersonation should support one another. I’ve always said “we are all in this together”. We have to support each system to keep the art form alive. To answer your question… I think the important thing to remember about pageantry is that for some entertainers, it is business. This is how they promote themselves or how they make a living. While I personally don’t think I could financially, physically, or mentally compete for more than one national title at a time, I don’t judge the girls that do. If they have the resources, passion, drive, and the opportunity to compete in more than one system a year, go for it!!! Why limit yourself? There are so many great systems/ pageants out there that represent great promoters, legacies, and pieces of history. However, I would suggest to choose wisely and if a pageant is known for being big on commitment. You may want to prove your loyalty to that system before you pageant hop. Winning titles ultimately come down to a judge’s panel. If that panel misreads your willingness to multi- compete in contest, you may be labeled greedy or crown hungry. I suggest making a list of titles you wish to hold…rank them in order as you would like to win, then compete.
Great question!
Jessica
This month has been a very busy one, but I loved every minute of it! Thank you to all the promoters, their families and friends, the pageant supporters, and fans for always making me feel special and welcomed in your homes and cities. Before I leave you all this month, I’d like to share a moment with you that kind of made reality set in, of how important these preliminaries mean to us. At one of my prelims this month, I witnessed very heightened contrasted emotions between competing contestants. At the end of the pageant two very strong, qualified contestants stood hand in hand waiting for the name of the winner to be called and the other as the 1st alternate. As the winners name was called, he jumped so high the curls in his up do loosened and fell, he screamed so loud you could hear him outside, his boyfriends eyes filled with tears from the audience, and he was immediately embraced by many to congratulate his victory, all before the crown was placed on his head. In the midst of all this, I could see out of the corner of my eye, a tearful, shaking, obviously broken 1st alternate, surrounded by formers, and other contestants, trying to console him. He was rushed off stage to a dark corner. I soon left the stage to find him. As I stepped behind the stage curtains I could hear him crying so loud, almost not able to catch his breath, before I even saw him. He was surrounded by his team, his boyfriend, and my heart broke for him. I took his hands and told him “it’s going to be ok, I promise”. His emotions were not that of bitterness by any means. He was genuinely heart broken and I could see the hurt all over his face. I offered him a tissue to wipe his eyes, took his hand and we made our way back to the stage for pictures. He controlled his hurt and graciously congratulated the winner. To people who don’t live this life they may not understand just how important these contest become to us. How they shape us, how they become the Hallmarks of our lives, or how much we sacrifice and push ourselves to our very end limits. To date, this preliminary season a total of 75 men (on the state / regional level, not including city prelims) have competed in hopes to win the title of Miss Gay America. To all of you and those of you who will compete later in the season, Thank you. Thank you for blessing my journey as MGA. You all inspire me and continue to drive me to be my best and never lose faith in the power of the human spirit.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
August 2014
The past month started off with a BANG!!! Literally! I hope you all had a memorable Fourth of July and were able to celebrate our countries independence with those that mean the most to you. I was on tour and celebrated the holiday with friends, new and old. July was a busy month for MGA, as I have overseen one regional prelim, three state prelims, and took in several additional bookings. In less than 3 months the new Miss Gay America will be crowned. This year has flown by. I’m totally dreading October 12th, and fear that I will be at some sort a loss, come that Monday morning, knowing that my schedule will go back to normal and that my role will change from “boss” into “former”. When you dedicate so much of your life to one thing, or dream, when it finally happens, you find yourself wondering “what now “or “what next” when it’s fulfilled. However, I am very excited to join the long list of former Miss Gay Americas, and return to nationals year after year to keep our system alive, and continue to watch others reach the goal of being honored as a Miss Gay America!!!
My first stop this month was to Charlotte, NC to perform at Scorpios for their 4th of July celebration!! The cast that night included Forever MGA Luscious, Rupaul Drag Race superstar – Andora, Show host- Tiffany Storm, and me. The show that night was incredible!!! The audience was on fire and it was so nice to catch up with Luscious backstage. I can’t wait to return to Scorpios for Miss Gay NC America next month!!!
After a 3 hour drive home from Charlotte, and a quick nap, I boarded a plane and found myself in Pennsylvania for Miss Gay PA America!!! New promoter Adam Feeser and reigning Miss Gay PA- Georgia Versace picked me up from the airport and we dashed across town to Stallions nightclub. We made it just in time to catch the fireworks show from the top roof deck of the club. What a special moment to share!!! The next day I met 3 contestants who were eager to win the title of Miss Gay PA America!! After a tight competition Miraj Jolie was named winner, with Katrina Escalarza as 1st alternate. I had a wonderful time at Miss PA and I know Adam will be successful transitioning Miss PA back into a closed state pageant with city preliminaries next year!!! I also enjoyed getting to know Georgia better this weekend!! Special thanks to Barb and Kathy for helping with my 50/50 raffle for Stand for the Silent and Christina Davis for helping dress me at the contest. It was also great to see Northeast promoter Eric and Tom, Michael, Sarah Molina, Joel, Araya, Ingenue, Eastern States promoter- Eric Gabbard, Chi Chi, and Lequitcha!
The next stop on the MGA tour was to Columbus, Ohio for two preliminaries! Miss Mid-Atlantic and Miss Ohio! Aron Aronda really outdid himself providing beautiful accommodations and two well ran prelims. Miss Gay Mid Atlantic brought three wonderful contestants to compete. At the end of the evening Ariel Knight Addams took top honors with Britney Blaire (who was giving up Miss Gay Ohio the same weekend) as her 1st alternate. It did my heart good to catch up with my Chicago dance team- Alberto Arias, David, and Tony while in Columbus. I love these talented boys!!! I also was able to visit with one of the most giving people I have ever met, my dear friend, Patti Loveless, as she was the outgoing Miss Mid Atlantic. Forever MGA’s Catia Lee Love and Rachel Wells were in attendance all weekend as judges. I have always looked up to Catia and it was an honor and treat to witness how she judges and of course see her perform. Catia will always be one of the most talented MGA’s ever, period!!! Rachel Wells also gave me a signed copy of his book “Who the Hell Is Rachel Wells” and he also made a very nice donation to my Charity, Stand for the Silent. I could talk to him for hours as he has a special way with words!! My second day in Ohio started off with registration for Miss Gay Ohio America. Promoters Aron Aronda and Nick Rose organized a fabulous contest!!! Ten well rounded contestants qualified from all over the state of Ohio in hopes to be named the states Symbol of Excellence. At the end of a two day pageant Alexis Stevens was crowned Miss Ohio, with a very uniquely talented National Holiday as her 1st alternate. I had a blast in Columbus, as I always do when I visit! Special thanks to William Allen – winner of City Prelim to Ohio- for helping with my 50/50 raffle all weekend in Ohio, for Stand for the Silent!!! While in Ohio, I was able to catch up with some of my favorites- Deva Station, Mark, Sam Swisher, Mark Martin (from Las Vegas Costumes), Mike Rhinehart, Jared (thanks for all the trips to CVS and to and from hotel) Nina and Virginia West, Vivi, Cory, Pam, Selena, Brian, Nick, Johnathon Thrasher. Thank you Axis for hosting us this weekend and for always supporting Miss Gay America!!! I can’t wait to return to Columbus!!!
After a 10 hour stop home I boarded yet another plane to Dallas, Texas for Miss Gay Texas America! I was greeted at the airport by Kristian (one of the “Texas boys” promoters) and Miss Gay USof A Jenna Skyy. Jenna and I talk tons of Facebook, so I was excited to get some real time with him!!! Jenna is the pageant director for Texas America and did an extraordinary job helping assist Kristian and Christian. She is going to make an excellent Miss Gay USofA!!! 22 contestants from all over the great state of Texas had qualified to compete for the title of Miss Gay Texas America. Reigning Miss Texas- Alayna Marquez did an excellent job all week stepping down and I was happy to get to know him better! At the end of a three day contest, Dessie Love Blake was crowned the New Miss Gay Texas America with the “brows of Texas” Nadine Hughes as her 1st alternate. While in Texas I was able to visit with my “drag baby” Arcasia Xavier. Arcasia moved to Fort Worth about a month ago and seems to be a path to success there, I will always be proud of her for stepping out of her comfort zone and not being scared to try new things. Another special moment had at Texas America was on prelim night 2 Jenna and I did a duet together. What a treat it was to perform with Miss Gay USofA!!! We performed to Whitney and Mariah’s “When you believe” to an audience that witnessed two artist sharing a message of “there can be miracles when you believe” not separated by pageant systems. Thank you Jenna!!!! Thank you promoters Christian and Kristian for my gorgeous condo and all you do for your girls!! Also, it was a joy catching up with Coco Van Cartier, Sweet Savage, Forever MGA’s Lauren Taylor, Charity Case, and Sally Sparkles, Giselle, Jimmy, Tommy Ross (we finally got that pic together!!!) Kara and Tara Dion, and Onyx! While in Texas I was asked to perform at the legendary Rose Room!!! Thank you Edna, Krystal, Cassie, Forever MGA- Valerie Lohr, Asia T O’Hare, Jenna, Chanel, and Fantasia for treating me like “one of the girls”! I was so honored to work with you all. Another special time while in Texas was taking part in a workshop for the Miss Gay Texas America and Gay Texas at Large pageant system. Jenna , Miss Diva USofA Brandy Skyy and Forever MGA –Patti Le Plae Safe were guest speakers. At the workshop we spoke about interview technique, gown competition, talent selections, make up, and just female impersonation in general. It was an honor to be able to play a small part in this groups journey of competing!!!
Next month I will share with you my visits to Louisiana, Baton Rouge, North Carolina, Arkansas, Illinois, Virginia, and West Virginia, as prelims are in full force!!!
This month I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” to share with you. If you would like to submit a question to me to be featured on this section of my next newsletter please message to me by the 10th of the month at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com.
Jessica,
Congrats on a great reign thus far! Each month I read how you are raising money for a charity. Do you think all national title holders should have a charity they work with as the reign for whatever title they hold? Keep up the good work!! How does one contribute to your charity??
Ben, Raleigh, NC.
Dear Ben,
Thank you for the message. I do think it would be nice if all national titleholders worked with a charity while they reigned for whatever respected title they hold. However, the cause and work must be genuine or it won’t mean anything. It should come from the heart and be a labor of love, not something required. I chose Stand for the Silent because of their efforts to combat bullying, as it something we hear more about every day, and the effects that it causes. Also, the association it has with suicide, as my family was touched by that type of death a year ago. It has been my pleasure to represent this charity and share their mission all over the country as I travel as Miss Gay America. With the help of MANY individuals I am getting closer and closer to my goals. I also was able to arrange a future visit for SFTS to come to Roanoke, VA where I live and have Kirk Smalley provide presentations to 5 local schools to help stop bullying and draw awareness to the effects it can cause. If anyone would like to contribute to my goal please email me atjessicajademga2014@yahoo.com or face book me and I will give you instructions on how to donate.
Jessica
As my reign as Miss Gay America is coming to an end quicker than I like to admit, I must say that the journey is everything I thought it would be. Everywhere I go everyone always ask “is it what you expected; is it everything you thought it would be”? When I answer yes, people always look at me weird. As it’s been said “you must live as a Miss Gay America, before you can be crowned Miss Gay America”. I studied and “lived” MGA for almost 10 years before my dream was realized. So for the most part, I was “ready” and knew what to expect. Yet, the dream has been so much richer than I could ever have wished for. I have met so many wonderful people and have visited places I know I would not have if not for MGA. Also, I’m always asked “do you think the rules are too stringent or strict?” Not at all! The rules, regulations, and structure that go along with MGA are not non attainable or set to take the fun out of the art form. They are there for a reason. I challenge anyone who is so lucky to be given that HEAVY handbook to find one rule, guideline, or regulation that isn’t in place for the betterment of this contest or legacy of MGA. In fact, I think we are fortunate to have a comprehensive, well organized manual to be able to go to; to make sure everything/everyone is on the up and up.
My wheels are turning as I prepare all my numbers, gowns, costumes, and hair designs for my give up week in Nashville. I am so excited to share a week of family, pageantry, and cherished memories with so many of you reading this newsletter. More so, I cannot wait to share with the country all the unique talented contestants I have been blessed with meeting this past year!!! I am so glad I won MGA when I did because this year’s competition is going to be a battle to the end. Forever MGA-Coti Collins text me two weeks ago and said “Have you met her”? I said “who”? Coti replied “The next MGA, Have you met her yet”? I replied. “I’ve met so many worthy of winning, but it’s too soon to say”. I truly mean that. So many of the qualified contestants so far are worthy of being a MGA and would do an excellent job adding to the legacy of MGA. It humbles me to see the fire, the drive, and passion that so many have showcased at their prelims. For one lucky gentleman, your life will forever be changed. I can’t wait to welcome you into the “family” on October 12th.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
My first stop this month was to Charlotte, NC to perform at Scorpios for their 4th of July celebration!! The cast that night included Forever MGA Luscious, Rupaul Drag Race superstar – Andora, Show host- Tiffany Storm, and me. The show that night was incredible!!! The audience was on fire and it was so nice to catch up with Luscious backstage. I can’t wait to return to Scorpios for Miss Gay NC America next month!!!
After a 3 hour drive home from Charlotte, and a quick nap, I boarded a plane and found myself in Pennsylvania for Miss Gay PA America!!! New promoter Adam Feeser and reigning Miss Gay PA- Georgia Versace picked me up from the airport and we dashed across town to Stallions nightclub. We made it just in time to catch the fireworks show from the top roof deck of the club. What a special moment to share!!! The next day I met 3 contestants who were eager to win the title of Miss Gay PA America!! After a tight competition Miraj Jolie was named winner, with Katrina Escalarza as 1st alternate. I had a wonderful time at Miss PA and I know Adam will be successful transitioning Miss PA back into a closed state pageant with city preliminaries next year!!! I also enjoyed getting to know Georgia better this weekend!! Special thanks to Barb and Kathy for helping with my 50/50 raffle for Stand for the Silent and Christina Davis for helping dress me at the contest. It was also great to see Northeast promoter Eric and Tom, Michael, Sarah Molina, Joel, Araya, Ingenue, Eastern States promoter- Eric Gabbard, Chi Chi, and Lequitcha!
The next stop on the MGA tour was to Columbus, Ohio for two preliminaries! Miss Mid-Atlantic and Miss Ohio! Aron Aronda really outdid himself providing beautiful accommodations and two well ran prelims. Miss Gay Mid Atlantic brought three wonderful contestants to compete. At the end of the evening Ariel Knight Addams took top honors with Britney Blaire (who was giving up Miss Gay Ohio the same weekend) as her 1st alternate. It did my heart good to catch up with my Chicago dance team- Alberto Arias, David, and Tony while in Columbus. I love these talented boys!!! I also was able to visit with one of the most giving people I have ever met, my dear friend, Patti Loveless, as she was the outgoing Miss Mid Atlantic. Forever MGA’s Catia Lee Love and Rachel Wells were in attendance all weekend as judges. I have always looked up to Catia and it was an honor and treat to witness how she judges and of course see her perform. Catia will always be one of the most talented MGA’s ever, period!!! Rachel Wells also gave me a signed copy of his book “Who the Hell Is Rachel Wells” and he also made a very nice donation to my Charity, Stand for the Silent. I could talk to him for hours as he has a special way with words!! My second day in Ohio started off with registration for Miss Gay Ohio America. Promoters Aron Aronda and Nick Rose organized a fabulous contest!!! Ten well rounded contestants qualified from all over the state of Ohio in hopes to be named the states Symbol of Excellence. At the end of a two day pageant Alexis Stevens was crowned Miss Ohio, with a very uniquely talented National Holiday as her 1st alternate. I had a blast in Columbus, as I always do when I visit! Special thanks to William Allen – winner of City Prelim to Ohio- for helping with my 50/50 raffle all weekend in Ohio, for Stand for the Silent!!! While in Ohio, I was able to catch up with some of my favorites- Deva Station, Mark, Sam Swisher, Mark Martin (from Las Vegas Costumes), Mike Rhinehart, Jared (thanks for all the trips to CVS and to and from hotel) Nina and Virginia West, Vivi, Cory, Pam, Selena, Brian, Nick, Johnathon Thrasher. Thank you Axis for hosting us this weekend and for always supporting Miss Gay America!!! I can’t wait to return to Columbus!!!
After a 10 hour stop home I boarded yet another plane to Dallas, Texas for Miss Gay Texas America! I was greeted at the airport by Kristian (one of the “Texas boys” promoters) and Miss Gay USof A Jenna Skyy. Jenna and I talk tons of Facebook, so I was excited to get some real time with him!!! Jenna is the pageant director for Texas America and did an extraordinary job helping assist Kristian and Christian. She is going to make an excellent Miss Gay USofA!!! 22 contestants from all over the great state of Texas had qualified to compete for the title of Miss Gay Texas America. Reigning Miss Texas- Alayna Marquez did an excellent job all week stepping down and I was happy to get to know him better! At the end of a three day contest, Dessie Love Blake was crowned the New Miss Gay Texas America with the “brows of Texas” Nadine Hughes as her 1st alternate. While in Texas I was able to visit with my “drag baby” Arcasia Xavier. Arcasia moved to Fort Worth about a month ago and seems to be a path to success there, I will always be proud of her for stepping out of her comfort zone and not being scared to try new things. Another special moment had at Texas America was on prelim night 2 Jenna and I did a duet together. What a treat it was to perform with Miss Gay USofA!!! We performed to Whitney and Mariah’s “When you believe” to an audience that witnessed two artist sharing a message of “there can be miracles when you believe” not separated by pageant systems. Thank you Jenna!!!! Thank you promoters Christian and Kristian for my gorgeous condo and all you do for your girls!! Also, it was a joy catching up with Coco Van Cartier, Sweet Savage, Forever MGA’s Lauren Taylor, Charity Case, and Sally Sparkles, Giselle, Jimmy, Tommy Ross (we finally got that pic together!!!) Kara and Tara Dion, and Onyx! While in Texas I was asked to perform at the legendary Rose Room!!! Thank you Edna, Krystal, Cassie, Forever MGA- Valerie Lohr, Asia T O’Hare, Jenna, Chanel, and Fantasia for treating me like “one of the girls”! I was so honored to work with you all. Another special time while in Texas was taking part in a workshop for the Miss Gay Texas America and Gay Texas at Large pageant system. Jenna , Miss Diva USofA Brandy Skyy and Forever MGA –Patti Le Plae Safe were guest speakers. At the workshop we spoke about interview technique, gown competition, talent selections, make up, and just female impersonation in general. It was an honor to be able to play a small part in this groups journey of competing!!!
Next month I will share with you my visits to Louisiana, Baton Rouge, North Carolina, Arkansas, Illinois, Virginia, and West Virginia, as prelims are in full force!!!
This month I have chosen one “Dear Jessica” to share with you. If you would like to submit a question to me to be featured on this section of my next newsletter please message to me by the 10th of the month at jessicajademga2014@yahoo.com.
Jessica,
Congrats on a great reign thus far! Each month I read how you are raising money for a charity. Do you think all national title holders should have a charity they work with as the reign for whatever title they hold? Keep up the good work!! How does one contribute to your charity??
Ben, Raleigh, NC.
Dear Ben,
Thank you for the message. I do think it would be nice if all national titleholders worked with a charity while they reigned for whatever respected title they hold. However, the cause and work must be genuine or it won’t mean anything. It should come from the heart and be a labor of love, not something required. I chose Stand for the Silent because of their efforts to combat bullying, as it something we hear more about every day, and the effects that it causes. Also, the association it has with suicide, as my family was touched by that type of death a year ago. It has been my pleasure to represent this charity and share their mission all over the country as I travel as Miss Gay America. With the help of MANY individuals I am getting closer and closer to my goals. I also was able to arrange a future visit for SFTS to come to Roanoke, VA where I live and have Kirk Smalley provide presentations to 5 local schools to help stop bullying and draw awareness to the effects it can cause. If anyone would like to contribute to my goal please email me atjessicajademga2014@yahoo.com or face book me and I will give you instructions on how to donate.
Jessica
As my reign as Miss Gay America is coming to an end quicker than I like to admit, I must say that the journey is everything I thought it would be. Everywhere I go everyone always ask “is it what you expected; is it everything you thought it would be”? When I answer yes, people always look at me weird. As it’s been said “you must live as a Miss Gay America, before you can be crowned Miss Gay America”. I studied and “lived” MGA for almost 10 years before my dream was realized. So for the most part, I was “ready” and knew what to expect. Yet, the dream has been so much richer than I could ever have wished for. I have met so many wonderful people and have visited places I know I would not have if not for MGA. Also, I’m always asked “do you think the rules are too stringent or strict?” Not at all! The rules, regulations, and structure that go along with MGA are not non attainable or set to take the fun out of the art form. They are there for a reason. I challenge anyone who is so lucky to be given that HEAVY handbook to find one rule, guideline, or regulation that isn’t in place for the betterment of this contest or legacy of MGA. In fact, I think we are fortunate to have a comprehensive, well organized manual to be able to go to; to make sure everything/everyone is on the up and up.
My wheels are turning as I prepare all my numbers, gowns, costumes, and hair designs for my give up week in Nashville. I am so excited to share a week of family, pageantry, and cherished memories with so many of you reading this newsletter. More so, I cannot wait to share with the country all the unique talented contestants I have been blessed with meeting this past year!!! I am so glad I won MGA when I did because this year’s competition is going to be a battle to the end. Forever MGA-Coti Collins text me two weeks ago and said “Have you met her”? I said “who”? Coti replied “The next MGA, Have you met her yet”? I replied. “I’ve met so many worthy of winning, but it’s too soon to say”. I truly mean that. So many of the qualified contestants so far are worthy of being a MGA and would do an excellent job adding to the legacy of MGA. It humbles me to see the fire, the drive, and passion that so many have showcased at their prelims. For one lucky gentleman, your life will forever be changed. I can’t wait to welcome you into the “family” on October 12th.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
September 2014
I hope this newsletter finds you well and enjoying the last days of summer. This past month has been unreal busy!! I’m not sure how I’ve survived with all my traveling, working, and tending to my MGA duties, but I’m still standing. I have had the pleasure to oversee 7 preliminaries to Miss Gay America 2015 this month. It saddens me that in less than 6 weeks I will step into the role as “former” and the crown will be placed on someone else’s head, changing their life forever. I would be lying if I said I’m not tired. The job of MGA is a hard one. I have had maybe a total of 4 days off (from performing /working) since winning in October and I have only visited my family in West Virginia 4 times this year. Due to all the traveling, climate changes, and lack of rest I have developed adult asthma and the worst case of sinusitis you can imagine!!! BUT… again I’m still standing and I wouldn’t trade a moment of this journey for anything.
My first stop this month was to Baton Rouge, Louisiana for Miss Gay Louisiana America!!! David Green and his team hosted a total of 13 contestants from all over the state of LA. The contest was a three day competition and was held at Club Splash. At the end of a very entertaining contest a newcomer to the world of pageantry and MGA walked away with top honors, Santana Pilar Andrews. Her 1st alternate was Arylin Roberts. Exiting queen Mercedes did a wonderful job all year and week representing her title! While I was in Louisiana I was able to catch up with so many of my “southern” friends Dextaci, Josalyn (who did a superb job as pageant director), Delanie, Blake, Chad, Theo (my personal chauffeur and who helped with my 50/50 raffles for Stand for the Silent), Jayda, my MGA sisters Raquel and Coco, Chad Brewer, Chi Chi, Blair Williams, Chasity, Phillip, and Coby Diagle. I always love visiting this part of the country. The people down south are always so welcoming and hospitable. I look forward to visiting Splash again for a booking!!!
After a great contest at Miss Louisiana I was taken across state to New Orleans by my friend Coby Diagle for an off day/night of fun in NOLA! One of the joys of being MGA, while traveling I have met so many people that have become great friends. Coby is one of those! He showed me around New Orleans, we shopped, ate authentic New Orleans food, attended the GAY awards at Club OZ, and toured the city. It was nice to and catch up with Persana Shoulders, Stephen, Aubrey, and Monet. The next day was back to business as Miss Gay Mississippi America was underway! Laura Rose, her team, and the staff at Mags did a fine job putting on MGMA. We had 5 fabulous contestants show up to fight for the title. Three of those contestants had just competed for Miss Louisiana days before, and another had competed at Miss Ohio months before. It inspired me to see these repeat contestants show up to prelims after not qualifying at previous attempts. It shows their dedication and hunger to get to MGA. I feel so bad for them when they don’t reach their goals and gain that “golden ticket” to the big dance. At the end of an exciting contest reigning MGMA Victoria Valentine crowned Gia Giovanna winner and M’shay Victoria Foster 1st alternate. So many of my friends from Louisiana showed up to support the pageant. So good seeing Josalyn, Delanie, Aubrey, Blake, Mark Martin, Stephen, my MGA sister and head judge of MGMA Nicole Dubois, and Tami Tarmac, and Maybelline!
My next trip was to Charlotte, NC for Miss Gay North Carolina America. The pageant was held at one of my favorite clubs in the country to perform at, Scorpios. Pageant Director Tiffany Storm did a superb job running a great contest. 14 contestants from all over the state of NC came to compete at a 4 day contest. Reigning MGNCA Lauren Scott displayed excellence all week and at the end of a great contest she crowned Kelly Ray the new MGNCA, with Chloe Cassidy as first alternate. Special thanks to Biscuits and Cassie for selling raffle tickets for my charity Stand for the Silent. It was amazing working with several of my MGA sisters..Kirby Kolby, Catia Lee Love and Lauren Colby. North Carolina has always been a second home for me, as I have been performing throughout the state from the beginning of my career. I enjoyed catching up with Big Shirley, Kristen Collins, Mike Rhinehart, Reba, Mike Divoky, Stacey McKnight, Jade, Mike, Eric Gabbard, Mr. SerGio, Mark Martin, Dana St. James, and all my NC sisters!!! Thank you Von Entertainment for a stellar week!
Fast forward a few days and I found myself in Little Rock, Arkansas for Miss Gay Arkansas America. Zia D’Yor and Shane Loftis picked me up from the airport and got me settled. Then we were off to registration at Discovery. I was met by 12 contestants and the first MGA- Norma Kristi! What a treat it was to meet Norman!!! That night, I was invited to perform at the MGAA review show…I had a blast!!! It was so good visiting with my MGA sister, Dominique Sanchez!!! The next day was a day full of pageantry! At the end of a great pageant, Ambrosia Bordeaaux was crowned the new Miss Gay Arkansas America by the lovely Brooklyn Bissett at the beautiful Argenta Theater. Chloe Jacobs was named 1st alternate. Special thanks to Jonathon Pillow for keeping me company and carrying my suitcases and to Philip Green for helping sale raffle tickets for SFTS!!! While at the pageant I was presented by the governor, a certificate of “Traveler of Arkansas”. What an honor!!!!!! Thank you to the Arkansas alumni for a great weekend and a beautiful contest! I also got to meet another MGA sister Jacqulyn Devaroe!!! What a great spirit!
My new stop was to Illinois for Miss Gay Illinois America! My flight was delayed and I got there just shortly after registration started. Chad Johnson, Kurt Godier, and reigning Miss Illinois Diva Coppafeel did a wonderful job hosting 10 contestants from all over the state of Illinois vying for the title! Diva did a great job all weekend. He is one of the most creative people I have ever met and I see HUGE things in his furfure! Larry Tyger and Chuck Guthrie were in attendance, as well as my MGA sister Catia Lee Love, who did a phenomenal job emceeing!! At the end of an exciting contest Akasha Royale was crowned and the 1st alternate was Kirsten Dubo!!! While in Illinois, I was able to visit with Colin Murphy, Mariah Candy, Adria Andrews, Erica, Josh , Jen, Donna, Rehab staff, and so many other friends from the area! I look forward to visiting with you all again soon!!!
After a short flight home, I was off to my step down as Miss Gay East Coast America at The Park, in Roanoke Virginia. It was so nice to be home and be surrounded by so many people who have supported me from day one when I started performing. New Promoter, Michael Smith and his team did an excellent job transforming the club into a Hollywood premier party!! Three contestants showed up from all over the country to compete for the title. In the end Kelly Brooks was crowned Miss East Coast America, with Hollie Daye her 1st alternate. I was able to award former East Coast promoter Joey Driscol with a beautiful MGA scepter made by Mark Martin / Las Vegas Costumes, as Joey was named “Best New Promoter “ by Sally Sparkles last year at MGA! Joey was so thrilled! Thank you Robert York for sponsoring the award!!! Thank you Biscuits and Christina Davis for keeping me company, dressing me, and selling raffle tickets for my charity!!! It was a true honor to show my hometown and “my” community what I have been working so hard on all year. I felt so much love in that room that night. Thank you to the owner of The Park, Elizabeth Bowers, Bunny Flingus, Mona, and Bobby Hash for treating me so well. I look forward to seeing you all so much more once I step down in October. Thank you Shannon Oden for the amazing lunch spread for the registration!!!
My last stop this month was to Martinsburg, WV for Miss West Virginia Regional America. Promoter Coby Myers and Pageant Director Sean Mauck did a great job producing a great contest at a fabulous venue, The Club!! Three contestants showed up to compete for their spot to MGA 2015! At the end of an entertaining contest Ashley Bannks was crowned MGWVA and Jada Bee her 1st alternate!! Thank you Biscuits for accompanying me on this trip and taking such good care of me as always! While in West VA I was able to catch up with Terry Eason, Bridget Nickels, Vicki Williams , Katrina, Roxy Rich, Naveah, Taylor, Chad, North East promoters –Tom and Eric, Robert York, Michael, Stephanie Michaels, Nicole. Nic, Kathy and Barb (thanks for selling my raffle tcikets!!!) Eastern States promoters- Eric and Michael Serio, Mark Martin and so many others from that area!!! It was great to witness my already qualified contestants for MGA 2015 out supporting the prelim – Chi Chi, Alondra, Araya, Miraj, and Laquitcha!!! Before heading back home I was able to squeeze in my last photo shoot as Miss Gay America 2014. Thank you so much Richard Bowe for sharing your talents with me. I am so excited about the shots we got and the program cover we created for The 2015 MGA Souvenir Program!!!!
This month I have chosen two “Dear Jessica’s” to share with you. If you would like to submit a question to be featured on next months “Jade in America” please write by the 10th of the month to jessicajademag2014@yahoo.com.
Dear Jessica,
Condragulations on a great year as our MGA! I have followed you all year and have been impressed with all you’ve done. My question is; what style hair should a contestant choose for gown competition along the MGA standards? I am planning on competing this coming year and I am starting my package early and can use all the help I can get!
Thank you,
Kelly from Atlanta, GA.
Dear Kelly,
Thank you for the message! I always tell my contestants that there is no “set standard” when choosing your hair style for gown competition. I tell them their hair can be up, it can be down, or half up / half down. I tell them to choose what looks best on them that accents their gown best, and fits their facial features best. Granted, most hair styles at MGA in recent years have been down hair, but I will be the first to say I still love a beautiful up do. As long as the wig line all the way around is neat and sprayed/contoured correctly, and not “helmet” looking it can and should score well! Once you decide on your gown design, I suggest playing with different styles of evening gown hair and take pics while in the gown and in face, to see what looks best. Best wishes as you start your journey competing for MGA!!!
Jessica xox
Dear Jessica Jade,
I am writing for advice that deals with an issue of the heart. I am 37 years old and have never been in a “serious” relationship. I am a decent looking man, I am college educated, I own my own home; have nice things, I am able to travel the world, and am a good person. The only hang up (that most claims are one) is I cross-dress. When I meet guys, I don’t offer that I dress in women’s clothes at first, because I know it will scare them off. It always seems things are progressing in a good direction, then once I expose my hobby, they always run!! What advice can you give and do you think I’ll ever meet someone that can overlook my “fetish”??
Sincerely,
“Those heels are my sisters”
Dear Sister Shoe Stretcher,
Thank you for your message! Hmmm this is a good one!!! First, let me commend you on what seems to be a successful life you are living. It sounds as though the type of “cross dressing” you do is a bit different then the type I do, as mine is not a “fetish” but a form of entertaining, a creative outlet, or a way to express my love for acting/theater. However, the misfortune in the love department resonance with many similarities! I too, consider myself to be put together and have a lot going for me, but like you, I haven’t been successful in love. Granted, I have not really put much effort into dating in MANY years, but I do agree that so many guys I do meet have a predisposed misconception about the art form or about dating female illusionist. I have gotten the “oh he’s just a drag queen” or “eww a woman want to be” etc. I choose my battles wisely and rarely will try to sway someone’s opinion of why they should look past my craft or why they should prejudge my self-worth for the fact that I do dress as a woman. My attitude is “this is me, take it or leave it”. I’m not going to change or rearrange something that has brought me such joy, success, wealth, and at times saved me, just to compromise to fit a mold of what someone else thinks, just to go on a few dates! YOU control your destiny and your happiness. As my MGA sister Coti Collins says, “Don’t let anyone determine your self-worth”. While it would be nice to share holidays, monumental moments in life, special vacations, etc. I’d rather be alone then with someone who didn’t love ALL or me and wanted to choose parts that only appealed to them to care for. I would suggest to you, to start looking for love on sites that cater to others that share your interest in your form/fetish of “cross dressing”. You may be lucky and find someone who shares your love for dressing in women’s clothes and hey!! You may even double your wardrobe!!! Best wishes and don’t stress if love doesn’t find you as soon as you hope it will… Good things happen to good people and when the time is right, you will be blessed with someone that will love all of you and treat you right!
Wearing the highest heels proudly =)
Jessica
What a month this has been !! I have met so many new people, reconnected with others, and have been inspired by the contestants fighting for their ticket to Miss Gay America 2015!! This year’s national pageant is going to a great contest. So many qualified contestants are already ready to “be” a Miss Gay America and I can’t wait to witness what promises to be a battle to the end for the crown. I am working diligently preparing tons of gowns, costumes, hair styles, and such for my give up week. This year has flown by! So many ask, “Are you ready for it to be over”? I always say, I am ready to get back to a normal schedule, but I will miss the opportunities, the travels, and the living in the moment of being Miss Gay America. This is has been a year I will cherish forever and I know whoever takes my place will feel the same at the end of their reign.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
My first stop this month was to Baton Rouge, Louisiana for Miss Gay Louisiana America!!! David Green and his team hosted a total of 13 contestants from all over the state of LA. The contest was a three day competition and was held at Club Splash. At the end of a very entertaining contest a newcomer to the world of pageantry and MGA walked away with top honors, Santana Pilar Andrews. Her 1st alternate was Arylin Roberts. Exiting queen Mercedes did a wonderful job all year and week representing her title! While I was in Louisiana I was able to catch up with so many of my “southern” friends Dextaci, Josalyn (who did a superb job as pageant director), Delanie, Blake, Chad, Theo (my personal chauffeur and who helped with my 50/50 raffles for Stand for the Silent), Jayda, my MGA sisters Raquel and Coco, Chad Brewer, Chi Chi, Blair Williams, Chasity, Phillip, and Coby Diagle. I always love visiting this part of the country. The people down south are always so welcoming and hospitable. I look forward to visiting Splash again for a booking!!!
After a great contest at Miss Louisiana I was taken across state to New Orleans by my friend Coby Diagle for an off day/night of fun in NOLA! One of the joys of being MGA, while traveling I have met so many people that have become great friends. Coby is one of those! He showed me around New Orleans, we shopped, ate authentic New Orleans food, attended the GAY awards at Club OZ, and toured the city. It was nice to and catch up with Persana Shoulders, Stephen, Aubrey, and Monet. The next day was back to business as Miss Gay Mississippi America was underway! Laura Rose, her team, and the staff at Mags did a fine job putting on MGMA. We had 5 fabulous contestants show up to fight for the title. Three of those contestants had just competed for Miss Louisiana days before, and another had competed at Miss Ohio months before. It inspired me to see these repeat contestants show up to prelims after not qualifying at previous attempts. It shows their dedication and hunger to get to MGA. I feel so bad for them when they don’t reach their goals and gain that “golden ticket” to the big dance. At the end of an exciting contest reigning MGMA Victoria Valentine crowned Gia Giovanna winner and M’shay Victoria Foster 1st alternate. So many of my friends from Louisiana showed up to support the pageant. So good seeing Josalyn, Delanie, Aubrey, Blake, Mark Martin, Stephen, my MGA sister and head judge of MGMA Nicole Dubois, and Tami Tarmac, and Maybelline!
My next trip was to Charlotte, NC for Miss Gay North Carolina America. The pageant was held at one of my favorite clubs in the country to perform at, Scorpios. Pageant Director Tiffany Storm did a superb job running a great contest. 14 contestants from all over the state of NC came to compete at a 4 day contest. Reigning MGNCA Lauren Scott displayed excellence all week and at the end of a great contest she crowned Kelly Ray the new MGNCA, with Chloe Cassidy as first alternate. Special thanks to Biscuits and Cassie for selling raffle tickets for my charity Stand for the Silent. It was amazing working with several of my MGA sisters..Kirby Kolby, Catia Lee Love and Lauren Colby. North Carolina has always been a second home for me, as I have been performing throughout the state from the beginning of my career. I enjoyed catching up with Big Shirley, Kristen Collins, Mike Rhinehart, Reba, Mike Divoky, Stacey McKnight, Jade, Mike, Eric Gabbard, Mr. SerGio, Mark Martin, Dana St. James, and all my NC sisters!!! Thank you Von Entertainment for a stellar week!
Fast forward a few days and I found myself in Little Rock, Arkansas for Miss Gay Arkansas America. Zia D’Yor and Shane Loftis picked me up from the airport and got me settled. Then we were off to registration at Discovery. I was met by 12 contestants and the first MGA- Norma Kristi! What a treat it was to meet Norman!!! That night, I was invited to perform at the MGAA review show…I had a blast!!! It was so good visiting with my MGA sister, Dominique Sanchez!!! The next day was a day full of pageantry! At the end of a great pageant, Ambrosia Bordeaaux was crowned the new Miss Gay Arkansas America by the lovely Brooklyn Bissett at the beautiful Argenta Theater. Chloe Jacobs was named 1st alternate. Special thanks to Jonathon Pillow for keeping me company and carrying my suitcases and to Philip Green for helping sale raffle tickets for SFTS!!! While at the pageant I was presented by the governor, a certificate of “Traveler of Arkansas”. What an honor!!!!!! Thank you to the Arkansas alumni for a great weekend and a beautiful contest! I also got to meet another MGA sister Jacqulyn Devaroe!!! What a great spirit!
My new stop was to Illinois for Miss Gay Illinois America! My flight was delayed and I got there just shortly after registration started. Chad Johnson, Kurt Godier, and reigning Miss Illinois Diva Coppafeel did a wonderful job hosting 10 contestants from all over the state of Illinois vying for the title! Diva did a great job all weekend. He is one of the most creative people I have ever met and I see HUGE things in his furfure! Larry Tyger and Chuck Guthrie were in attendance, as well as my MGA sister Catia Lee Love, who did a phenomenal job emceeing!! At the end of an exciting contest Akasha Royale was crowned and the 1st alternate was Kirsten Dubo!!! While in Illinois, I was able to visit with Colin Murphy, Mariah Candy, Adria Andrews, Erica, Josh , Jen, Donna, Rehab staff, and so many other friends from the area! I look forward to visiting with you all again soon!!!
After a short flight home, I was off to my step down as Miss Gay East Coast America at The Park, in Roanoke Virginia. It was so nice to be home and be surrounded by so many people who have supported me from day one when I started performing. New Promoter, Michael Smith and his team did an excellent job transforming the club into a Hollywood premier party!! Three contestants showed up from all over the country to compete for the title. In the end Kelly Brooks was crowned Miss East Coast America, with Hollie Daye her 1st alternate. I was able to award former East Coast promoter Joey Driscol with a beautiful MGA scepter made by Mark Martin / Las Vegas Costumes, as Joey was named “Best New Promoter “ by Sally Sparkles last year at MGA! Joey was so thrilled! Thank you Robert York for sponsoring the award!!! Thank you Biscuits and Christina Davis for keeping me company, dressing me, and selling raffle tickets for my charity!!! It was a true honor to show my hometown and “my” community what I have been working so hard on all year. I felt so much love in that room that night. Thank you to the owner of The Park, Elizabeth Bowers, Bunny Flingus, Mona, and Bobby Hash for treating me so well. I look forward to seeing you all so much more once I step down in October. Thank you Shannon Oden for the amazing lunch spread for the registration!!!
My last stop this month was to Martinsburg, WV for Miss West Virginia Regional America. Promoter Coby Myers and Pageant Director Sean Mauck did a great job producing a great contest at a fabulous venue, The Club!! Three contestants showed up to compete for their spot to MGA 2015! At the end of an entertaining contest Ashley Bannks was crowned MGWVA and Jada Bee her 1st alternate!! Thank you Biscuits for accompanying me on this trip and taking such good care of me as always! While in West VA I was able to catch up with Terry Eason, Bridget Nickels, Vicki Williams , Katrina, Roxy Rich, Naveah, Taylor, Chad, North East promoters –Tom and Eric, Robert York, Michael, Stephanie Michaels, Nicole. Nic, Kathy and Barb (thanks for selling my raffle tcikets!!!) Eastern States promoters- Eric and Michael Serio, Mark Martin and so many others from that area!!! It was great to witness my already qualified contestants for MGA 2015 out supporting the prelim – Chi Chi, Alondra, Araya, Miraj, and Laquitcha!!! Before heading back home I was able to squeeze in my last photo shoot as Miss Gay America 2014. Thank you so much Richard Bowe for sharing your talents with me. I am so excited about the shots we got and the program cover we created for The 2015 MGA Souvenir Program!!!!
This month I have chosen two “Dear Jessica’s” to share with you. If you would like to submit a question to be featured on next months “Jade in America” please write by the 10th of the month to jessicajademag2014@yahoo.com.
Dear Jessica,
Condragulations on a great year as our MGA! I have followed you all year and have been impressed with all you’ve done. My question is; what style hair should a contestant choose for gown competition along the MGA standards? I am planning on competing this coming year and I am starting my package early and can use all the help I can get!
Thank you,
Kelly from Atlanta, GA.
Dear Kelly,
Thank you for the message! I always tell my contestants that there is no “set standard” when choosing your hair style for gown competition. I tell them their hair can be up, it can be down, or half up / half down. I tell them to choose what looks best on them that accents their gown best, and fits their facial features best. Granted, most hair styles at MGA in recent years have been down hair, but I will be the first to say I still love a beautiful up do. As long as the wig line all the way around is neat and sprayed/contoured correctly, and not “helmet” looking it can and should score well! Once you decide on your gown design, I suggest playing with different styles of evening gown hair and take pics while in the gown and in face, to see what looks best. Best wishes as you start your journey competing for MGA!!!
Jessica xox
Dear Jessica Jade,
I am writing for advice that deals with an issue of the heart. I am 37 years old and have never been in a “serious” relationship. I am a decent looking man, I am college educated, I own my own home; have nice things, I am able to travel the world, and am a good person. The only hang up (that most claims are one) is I cross-dress. When I meet guys, I don’t offer that I dress in women’s clothes at first, because I know it will scare them off. It always seems things are progressing in a good direction, then once I expose my hobby, they always run!! What advice can you give and do you think I’ll ever meet someone that can overlook my “fetish”??
Sincerely,
“Those heels are my sisters”
Dear Sister Shoe Stretcher,
Thank you for your message! Hmmm this is a good one!!! First, let me commend you on what seems to be a successful life you are living. It sounds as though the type of “cross dressing” you do is a bit different then the type I do, as mine is not a “fetish” but a form of entertaining, a creative outlet, or a way to express my love for acting/theater. However, the misfortune in the love department resonance with many similarities! I too, consider myself to be put together and have a lot going for me, but like you, I haven’t been successful in love. Granted, I have not really put much effort into dating in MANY years, but I do agree that so many guys I do meet have a predisposed misconception about the art form or about dating female illusionist. I have gotten the “oh he’s just a drag queen” or “eww a woman want to be” etc. I choose my battles wisely and rarely will try to sway someone’s opinion of why they should look past my craft or why they should prejudge my self-worth for the fact that I do dress as a woman. My attitude is “this is me, take it or leave it”. I’m not going to change or rearrange something that has brought me such joy, success, wealth, and at times saved me, just to compromise to fit a mold of what someone else thinks, just to go on a few dates! YOU control your destiny and your happiness. As my MGA sister Coti Collins says, “Don’t let anyone determine your self-worth”. While it would be nice to share holidays, monumental moments in life, special vacations, etc. I’d rather be alone then with someone who didn’t love ALL or me and wanted to choose parts that only appealed to them to care for. I would suggest to you, to start looking for love on sites that cater to others that share your interest in your form/fetish of “cross dressing”. You may be lucky and find someone who shares your love for dressing in women’s clothes and hey!! You may even double your wardrobe!!! Best wishes and don’t stress if love doesn’t find you as soon as you hope it will… Good things happen to good people and when the time is right, you will be blessed with someone that will love all of you and treat you right!
Wearing the highest heels proudly =)
Jessica
What a month this has been !! I have met so many new people, reconnected with others, and have been inspired by the contestants fighting for their ticket to Miss Gay America 2015!! This year’s national pageant is going to a great contest. So many qualified contestants are already ready to “be” a Miss Gay America and I can’t wait to witness what promises to be a battle to the end for the crown. I am working diligently preparing tons of gowns, costumes, hair styles, and such for my give up week. This year has flown by! So many ask, “Are you ready for it to be over”? I always say, I am ready to get back to a normal schedule, but I will miss the opportunities, the travels, and the living in the moment of being Miss Gay America. This is has been a year I will cherish forever and I know whoever takes my place will feel the same at the end of their reign.
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
October 2014
As the end of my reign as Miss Gay America quickly approaches, I find myself thinking how fast this year flew by. It seems like it was just yesterday that we were in St. Louis and my dream came true. I must say that this year has been everything I hoped for and more. I’m thankful I never gave up on my dream all those years I competed and didn’t win. The rewards that I have been given as MGA this year completely make up for all those long, expensive, and heart breaking years. I have made so many memories this year, traveled near and far, met and made friends from all over the country, all while continuing the legacy of the Miss Gay America pageant system. This past month has been VERY busy. I have overseen two prelims, taken on several additional bookings, and been working nonstop on “stuff” for my give up week in Nashville.
My first travels this month took me to Nashville, Tennessee for The Miss Gay Tennessee America pageant. I was picked up at the airport by Chuck Guthrie (Larry Tyger’s partner) and rushed to see his and Larry’s new home; as the just moved to Nashville from Memphis. The new home was absolutely breathtaking!!! Larry soon joined us for dinner overlooking the Tennessee River then we were off to the Evergreen Theater for the Miss Tennessee review show. The show included several former Miss Gay TN America’s and the reigning MGTA, the beautiful Venus Knight. Thank you PJ and Paulette for asking me to be a part the show! Later that evening Suzie Wong , Pat Macooter, Chuck, Chris, Larry, and myself enjoyed Larry’s famous margaritas on Larry and Chucks deck overlooking downtown Nashville. What a great time!! The next day was all business as Miss Gay Tennessee America was underway. Pj and Paulette worked very hard to transform the Evergreen Theater into a magical fairy tale forest. Three fabulous contestants’s showed up to compete. At the end of a great contest Iris Lefleur was crowned as MGTA, with Bella Duballe her 1st alternate. While in Tennessee I was able to catch up with so many MGA friends. IT was so good seeing David Green, Coby Myers, Terry Eason, Miss Gay Louisiana –Santana, Miss Gay Mid America – Sasha Lee Chambers, Anastasia Beverhouser, Anita Cocktail, Chad Johnson, Curt Godier, Miss Gay Arkansas- Ambrosia Bandeaux, Miss Gay Illinois- Akasha Royale, Stacey McKnight, and so many others!!! Thank you Chad and Curt for selling 50/50 raffle tickets for SFTS!!
My next trip was to North Carolina for a 3 night weekend of performing and pageantry. The first stop was to Club Snap in Winston- Salem, NC!! Thank you Paisley Parque for arranging this booking. This was my first time performing here. I shared the stage that night with the ever so painted, Ava Parque Divine!! While in Winston I was able to catch up with some of my favorite NC friends. Raven Wood, Jason, Brian, Orlando, Cherries, Dan, and Olive!
The next stop was to Legends in Raleigh, NC!! I always have a great time working with the ladies of Legends. I joined the show that evening with Dana St. James, Emory Star, and Miss Gay Mid Atlanta- Ariel Knight Addams. We had just as much fun in the dressing room as we did on stage with Jackie, and Jennifer St. James !!
My last day in North Carolina that weekend was to celebrate the last prelim to Miss Gay America 2015, Miss Gay South East America!! Promoter Christopher Horton did a great job producing a fabulous contest at the legendary Lincoln Theater. Three great contestants showed up to compete for the final two spots to MGA. At the end of an exciting contest, Aria B.Cassadine was crowned the new MGSEA with Christian Elite her 1st alternate. Special thanks to Cassie for selling 50/50 raffle tickets for my charity Stand for the Silent. Also, many thanks go out to Biscuits for keeping me company all weekend and assisting me.
The following week I was pleased to take part in a benefit show at The Park in Roanoke, VA for Stand for the Silent. Special thanks to Michael Smith, Bunny Flingus, Johnny D, Kristi Crème, and Mona Lotts for being a part of this special night. We rose $500.00 that night to go toward the total of monies raised that I will present to SFTS at the review show at Miss Gay America 2015 in Nashville. The Park and the Roanoke community have always supported my dreams and have always made me feel like a “Miss Gay America” long before I was crowned. Thank you all so much for helping in a great cause!!
My final booking this month was for a double brunch show in Richmond, VA at Godfreys. That show included Kirby Kolby, Emory Star, me, and the newly crowned Miss Nationz- Alvion Arnell Davenport. We had so much fun cutting up in the dressing room. Thank Jeff Willis and Austin for my new fashions and the staff for being so welcoming. See you in November!
If all the traveling this month wasn’t enough to keep me busy; on top of working my day jobs, I have also been nonstop working on prep for my step down week. Tons of costuming ,wig designing, fittings, rehearsing, and the list goes on. I am so excited to see everyone and show the country all the talented contestants I have collected this pageant season. This year’s top 10 is going to be so hard to crack into. These contestants represent some of the best the nation has to offer and I know final night is going to be one amazing show!!!
I have chosen two “Dear Jessica’s” to share with you this month. Thank you to everyone who submitted letter of questions or those seeking advice. Caring enough to hear my responses made me feel special and I thank you.
Dear Jessica Jade,
I read in your previous newsletter that you worked with one the Rupaul Drag Race girls in NC. It’s no secret that those girls make a ton of money compared to the “everyday drag queen”. How do you feel about that? Would you ever go on the show? Congrats on a great reign!!
KJ, Dallas, TX.
KJ,
Thank you for the email. I have had the pleasure to work with many of the Rupaul girls over the years. Most are very sweet, fun to work with, and are top notch entertainers. I also understand that they do make a substantial amount of money to perform. I will be honest and say that I have worked with a couple who I did not think presented a show package that was worthy of a $1000.00 plus booking fee and 5 star accommodations, BUT if someone is going to pay them that, then so be it! These girls are treated like stars and they should be. So many dream of being on the show and only a select few ever will make it. I may not personally care for their style of female impersonation or how they behave. You just have to remember it basically comes down to ratings and popularity. If I were given the opportunity to be on the show, would I take it?? YOU BETCHA! I would use that exposure to promote my brand and take full advantage of all the perks that come along with being a Ru girl!
Jessica
“Jessica…it’ me… Coti…Coti Collins”
How has being Miss Gay America changed your life?
-Coti
Dear Coti,
Welcome back to the East Coast! I hope you enjoyed your time out west. Being Miss Gay America has forever changed my life for the better. For so many years I thought MGA needed me, but I now realize I needed MGA more. Over the course of all my years competing for the title and now reigning I‘ve learned so much about myself, I grew up in a lot of ways, I learned my worth, and I was given so many wonderful opportunities and experiences that will last a lifetime. My year as MGA was fairy tale like and I am so thankful for all the amazing people that helped along the way. This year was very busy, hectic, and at times stressful, but the good times and rewards out weight the “not so good times” by leaps and bounds. I am proud of my reign and I just hope I made L and T proud and all my forever MGA sisters as well. I look forward to seeing you in Nashville!!!
“Hey Coti!! It’s me Jessica”.
I want to thank each and every person who took the time to read my newsletters each month. In my very first newsletter back in October of 2013 I said I wanted to use “the Excellence” as a tool for you the readers to get to know me. I hope I accomplished that. Being a national title holder for the largest, oldest pageantry system in the world of female impersonation is a lot harder than one may think. I am can attest that being Miss Gay America is a JOB. In fact, my year as MGA was a lot harder, demanding, and stressful than my real job in healthcare. However, I wouldn’t change a moment for anything! I still get butterflies when I’m in the wings of stages and I hear “Miss Gay America” announced before my name before I take the stage. The journey to the crown was long for me and at times disheartening but in the end I won more than just a crown. I won friendships, confidence, once in a life time experiences, being a part of a legacy, and the joy of being a part of a family. My life has been forever changed and I am so grateful for everything the world of female impersonation and the Miss Gay America pageantry system has done for me.
In closing, I would like to welcome you all to join us in Nashville, TN October 8-12th at The Millennium Maxwell Hotel as we crown the new MGA. I promise you, this year’s contest will be more entertaining than ever and that our contestants are going to shine and in the end we will crown a new symbol of excellence that will make us all proud. I ask that everyone support the new MGA and give her time to settle into the job of MGA and support her throughout her year of reign and make her feel the love like I have. See you in Nashville for the “roaring excellence”!!!!
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014
My first travels this month took me to Nashville, Tennessee for The Miss Gay Tennessee America pageant. I was picked up at the airport by Chuck Guthrie (Larry Tyger’s partner) and rushed to see his and Larry’s new home; as the just moved to Nashville from Memphis. The new home was absolutely breathtaking!!! Larry soon joined us for dinner overlooking the Tennessee River then we were off to the Evergreen Theater for the Miss Tennessee review show. The show included several former Miss Gay TN America’s and the reigning MGTA, the beautiful Venus Knight. Thank you PJ and Paulette for asking me to be a part the show! Later that evening Suzie Wong , Pat Macooter, Chuck, Chris, Larry, and myself enjoyed Larry’s famous margaritas on Larry and Chucks deck overlooking downtown Nashville. What a great time!! The next day was all business as Miss Gay Tennessee America was underway. Pj and Paulette worked very hard to transform the Evergreen Theater into a magical fairy tale forest. Three fabulous contestants’s showed up to compete. At the end of a great contest Iris Lefleur was crowned as MGTA, with Bella Duballe her 1st alternate. While in Tennessee I was able to catch up with so many MGA friends. IT was so good seeing David Green, Coby Myers, Terry Eason, Miss Gay Louisiana –Santana, Miss Gay Mid America – Sasha Lee Chambers, Anastasia Beverhouser, Anita Cocktail, Chad Johnson, Curt Godier, Miss Gay Arkansas- Ambrosia Bandeaux, Miss Gay Illinois- Akasha Royale, Stacey McKnight, and so many others!!! Thank you Chad and Curt for selling 50/50 raffle tickets for SFTS!!
My next trip was to North Carolina for a 3 night weekend of performing and pageantry. The first stop was to Club Snap in Winston- Salem, NC!! Thank you Paisley Parque for arranging this booking. This was my first time performing here. I shared the stage that night with the ever so painted, Ava Parque Divine!! While in Winston I was able to catch up with some of my favorite NC friends. Raven Wood, Jason, Brian, Orlando, Cherries, Dan, and Olive!
The next stop was to Legends in Raleigh, NC!! I always have a great time working with the ladies of Legends. I joined the show that evening with Dana St. James, Emory Star, and Miss Gay Mid Atlanta- Ariel Knight Addams. We had just as much fun in the dressing room as we did on stage with Jackie, and Jennifer St. James !!
My last day in North Carolina that weekend was to celebrate the last prelim to Miss Gay America 2015, Miss Gay South East America!! Promoter Christopher Horton did a great job producing a fabulous contest at the legendary Lincoln Theater. Three great contestants showed up to compete for the final two spots to MGA. At the end of an exciting contest, Aria B.Cassadine was crowned the new MGSEA with Christian Elite her 1st alternate. Special thanks to Cassie for selling 50/50 raffle tickets for my charity Stand for the Silent. Also, many thanks go out to Biscuits for keeping me company all weekend and assisting me.
The following week I was pleased to take part in a benefit show at The Park in Roanoke, VA for Stand for the Silent. Special thanks to Michael Smith, Bunny Flingus, Johnny D, Kristi Crème, and Mona Lotts for being a part of this special night. We rose $500.00 that night to go toward the total of monies raised that I will present to SFTS at the review show at Miss Gay America 2015 in Nashville. The Park and the Roanoke community have always supported my dreams and have always made me feel like a “Miss Gay America” long before I was crowned. Thank you all so much for helping in a great cause!!
My final booking this month was for a double brunch show in Richmond, VA at Godfreys. That show included Kirby Kolby, Emory Star, me, and the newly crowned Miss Nationz- Alvion Arnell Davenport. We had so much fun cutting up in the dressing room. Thank Jeff Willis and Austin for my new fashions and the staff for being so welcoming. See you in November!
If all the traveling this month wasn’t enough to keep me busy; on top of working my day jobs, I have also been nonstop working on prep for my step down week. Tons of costuming ,wig designing, fittings, rehearsing, and the list goes on. I am so excited to see everyone and show the country all the talented contestants I have collected this pageant season. This year’s top 10 is going to be so hard to crack into. These contestants represent some of the best the nation has to offer and I know final night is going to be one amazing show!!!
I have chosen two “Dear Jessica’s” to share with you this month. Thank you to everyone who submitted letter of questions or those seeking advice. Caring enough to hear my responses made me feel special and I thank you.
Dear Jessica Jade,
I read in your previous newsletter that you worked with one the Rupaul Drag Race girls in NC. It’s no secret that those girls make a ton of money compared to the “everyday drag queen”. How do you feel about that? Would you ever go on the show? Congrats on a great reign!!
KJ, Dallas, TX.
KJ,
Thank you for the email. I have had the pleasure to work with many of the Rupaul girls over the years. Most are very sweet, fun to work with, and are top notch entertainers. I also understand that they do make a substantial amount of money to perform. I will be honest and say that I have worked with a couple who I did not think presented a show package that was worthy of a $1000.00 plus booking fee and 5 star accommodations, BUT if someone is going to pay them that, then so be it! These girls are treated like stars and they should be. So many dream of being on the show and only a select few ever will make it. I may not personally care for their style of female impersonation or how they behave. You just have to remember it basically comes down to ratings and popularity. If I were given the opportunity to be on the show, would I take it?? YOU BETCHA! I would use that exposure to promote my brand and take full advantage of all the perks that come along with being a Ru girl!
Jessica
“Jessica…it’ me… Coti…Coti Collins”
How has being Miss Gay America changed your life?
-Coti
Dear Coti,
Welcome back to the East Coast! I hope you enjoyed your time out west. Being Miss Gay America has forever changed my life for the better. For so many years I thought MGA needed me, but I now realize I needed MGA more. Over the course of all my years competing for the title and now reigning I‘ve learned so much about myself, I grew up in a lot of ways, I learned my worth, and I was given so many wonderful opportunities and experiences that will last a lifetime. My year as MGA was fairy tale like and I am so thankful for all the amazing people that helped along the way. This year was very busy, hectic, and at times stressful, but the good times and rewards out weight the “not so good times” by leaps and bounds. I am proud of my reign and I just hope I made L and T proud and all my forever MGA sisters as well. I look forward to seeing you in Nashville!!!
“Hey Coti!! It’s me Jessica”.
I want to thank each and every person who took the time to read my newsletters each month. In my very first newsletter back in October of 2013 I said I wanted to use “the Excellence” as a tool for you the readers to get to know me. I hope I accomplished that. Being a national title holder for the largest, oldest pageantry system in the world of female impersonation is a lot harder than one may think. I am can attest that being Miss Gay America is a JOB. In fact, my year as MGA was a lot harder, demanding, and stressful than my real job in healthcare. However, I wouldn’t change a moment for anything! I still get butterflies when I’m in the wings of stages and I hear “Miss Gay America” announced before my name before I take the stage. The journey to the crown was long for me and at times disheartening but in the end I won more than just a crown. I won friendships, confidence, once in a life time experiences, being a part of a legacy, and the joy of being a part of a family. My life has been forever changed and I am so grateful for everything the world of female impersonation and the Miss Gay America pageantry system has done for me.
In closing, I would like to welcome you all to join us in Nashville, TN October 8-12th at The Millennium Maxwell Hotel as we crown the new MGA. I promise you, this year’s contest will be more entertaining than ever and that our contestants are going to shine and in the end we will crown a new symbol of excellence that will make us all proud. I ask that everyone support the new MGA and give her time to settle into the job of MGA and support her throughout her year of reign and make her feel the love like I have. See you in Nashville for the “roaring excellence”!!!!
Much love, respect, and admiration…..
Jessica Jade
Miss Gay America 2014