Love Notes
Volume 8
Over the last eight months (Jan to Aug ) I’ve attended ten prelims. During September alone there are seven more.
Pageant season is getting hot and thankfully the temperature outside is getting cooler.
Miss Gay Fancy America in Raleigh, NC kicked off September. This prelim is in the care of Alan Domingo, Joshua Gray-Heim, & Carlos O'Neal. This particular prelim exists to honor the life and memory of Coti Collins, a forever and ever Miss Gay America.
The newly crowned Miss Gay Fancy, David McKee (Devida) and 1st alt Paris Brooks-Bonet will be joining us in Little Rock in January.
This is an absolute whirlwind! The airline staff feels more like family and the hotel room numbers start to jumble in my head. Am I in room 207 or 709? I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. One of my favorite things is the campfire chats around the hotel designated smoking area. I’m not a cigarette smoker but this seems to be where everyone congratulates to share the stories of their lives and I’m here for it.
I’m here in Wilmington, Delaware experiencing the most beautiful weather for a pageant. The Miss Gay Delaware America preliminary is owned by Scarlet Masters (aka Zach King) and his host of volunteers and TINA! (Tina is pronounced the way Cedrick the Entertainer says his wife’s name in The Neighborhood sitcom.) Special shout out to Kasey for picking us up from the airport and hauling us around. Thanks to Bar XIII for allowing us to use your space for the personal interviews and for making your space available for city prelims.
Miss Gay Delaware hadn’t been active for 15 years but Tisha Towers MGDA 2009 was there for her step down after all this time. Morgan Morgan Morgan won a new crown and Sarabesque scores the first alternate position and both are on their way to the Robinson Center in Little Rock for nationals!
Two days later I’m back home in Texas for Miss Gay Texas America with my good friends and promoters, Todd Slaughter and Caleb Hardcastle. I was celebrating my 10 year anniversary of being Miss Gay Texas America which is the first prelim I ever won.
After a night of preliminary competition, a Top 8 stepped up and competed again for a final night of pageantry and a victory emerges for Malibu von Schweetz and Maeve Haven qualifies as 1st runner-up. This was Malibu’s first attempt at Miss Gay Texas America
After an hour of sleep on was on a plane to Baltimore for Miss Gay Maryland America.
Divinity Cruz was victorious and 1st alt Onyx D. Pearl.
This prelim definitely felt like a whirlwind, I was there less than 24 hours then back on a plane to Houston for Miss Gay Southwest America.
Once again Todd Slaughter and Caleb Hardcastle put on a wonderful prelim. Winning the night was Ivy Dripp along with her 1st alt. Chloe Knox
I had about 2 days off then it was to Little Rock for Miss Gay Arkansas America. This prelim was a little special because I hadn’t been back to Little Rock since I won. It actually made me nervous walking back into that hotel.
Coppa LeMay was crowned the new Miss Gay Arkansas America. Fun fact, Coppa had not competed for Miss Gay Arkansas America since 1989!
Coppa and her 1st alt Lola Lorenz both got their tickets to Miss Gay America 2025.
After 2 hours of sleep, I ended the month in Columbus Ohio for Miss Gay Midwest America. Robbie Rickard is the promoter and this was also the prelim I won to compete at MGA this past year. Aria B Cassadine was the winner!
Aria along with her 1st alt, Arion Apollo, will both be headed to MGA 2025.
October has a few prelims;
October 5th
Miss Gay North Carolina America
October 11th
Miss Gay Tennessee America
October 26th
Miss Gay Diamond America
Fall is my favorite time of year and I’m looking forward to the cooler weather. Looking forward to the last quarter of my reign.
Dessie Love Blake
Miss Gay America 2024
Pageant season is getting hot and thankfully the temperature outside is getting cooler.
Miss Gay Fancy America in Raleigh, NC kicked off September. This prelim is in the care of Alan Domingo, Joshua Gray-Heim, & Carlos O'Neal. This particular prelim exists to honor the life and memory of Coti Collins, a forever and ever Miss Gay America.
The newly crowned Miss Gay Fancy, David McKee (Devida) and 1st alt Paris Brooks-Bonet will be joining us in Little Rock in January.
This is an absolute whirlwind! The airline staff feels more like family and the hotel room numbers start to jumble in my head. Am I in room 207 or 709? I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. One of my favorite things is the campfire chats around the hotel designated smoking area. I’m not a cigarette smoker but this seems to be where everyone congratulates to share the stories of their lives and I’m here for it.
I’m here in Wilmington, Delaware experiencing the most beautiful weather for a pageant. The Miss Gay Delaware America preliminary is owned by Scarlet Masters (aka Zach King) and his host of volunteers and TINA! (Tina is pronounced the way Cedrick the Entertainer says his wife’s name in The Neighborhood sitcom.) Special shout out to Kasey for picking us up from the airport and hauling us around. Thanks to Bar XIII for allowing us to use your space for the personal interviews and for making your space available for city prelims.
Miss Gay Delaware hadn’t been active for 15 years but Tisha Towers MGDA 2009 was there for her step down after all this time. Morgan Morgan Morgan won a new crown and Sarabesque scores the first alternate position and both are on their way to the Robinson Center in Little Rock for nationals!
Two days later I’m back home in Texas for Miss Gay Texas America with my good friends and promoters, Todd Slaughter and Caleb Hardcastle. I was celebrating my 10 year anniversary of being Miss Gay Texas America which is the first prelim I ever won.
After a night of preliminary competition, a Top 8 stepped up and competed again for a final night of pageantry and a victory emerges for Malibu von Schweetz and Maeve Haven qualifies as 1st runner-up. This was Malibu’s first attempt at Miss Gay Texas America
After an hour of sleep on was on a plane to Baltimore for Miss Gay Maryland America.
Divinity Cruz was victorious and 1st alt Onyx D. Pearl.
This prelim definitely felt like a whirlwind, I was there less than 24 hours then back on a plane to Houston for Miss Gay Southwest America.
Once again Todd Slaughter and Caleb Hardcastle put on a wonderful prelim. Winning the night was Ivy Dripp along with her 1st alt. Chloe Knox
I had about 2 days off then it was to Little Rock for Miss Gay Arkansas America. This prelim was a little special because I hadn’t been back to Little Rock since I won. It actually made me nervous walking back into that hotel.
Coppa LeMay was crowned the new Miss Gay Arkansas America. Fun fact, Coppa had not competed for Miss Gay Arkansas America since 1989!
Coppa and her 1st alt Lola Lorenz both got their tickets to Miss Gay America 2025.
After 2 hours of sleep, I ended the month in Columbus Ohio for Miss Gay Midwest America. Robbie Rickard is the promoter and this was also the prelim I won to compete at MGA this past year. Aria B Cassadine was the winner!
Aria along with her 1st alt, Arion Apollo, will both be headed to MGA 2025.
October has a few prelims;
October 5th
Miss Gay North Carolina America
October 11th
Miss Gay Tennessee America
October 26th
Miss Gay Diamond America
Fall is my favorite time of year and I’m looking forward to the cooler weather. Looking forward to the last quarter of my reign.
Dessie Love Blake
Miss Gay America 2024
Love Notes
Volume 7
August started out with Miss Gay Alaska America.
I was both looking forward to going to Alaska, but not looking forward to the flight time. After about 10 hours of travel, I finally landed in Juneau around 1am. When the sun came up the scenery was absolutely beautiful and it was time for a pageant. There were 4 contestants with the best names; Athena Nuff, Cry Baby, Dyanne Dystopia, & Osha Violation.
In the end Osha was victorious in becoming the new Miss Gay Alaska America. Osha and her 1st alt Dyanne Dystopia will compete at Miss Gay America 2025.
I want to send a huge thank you to the Promoter Gigi Monroe. You not only put together one hell of a pageant, but you understood how far girls had to travel to compete and you had sponsorships to help them even come compete. That was very touching to me. Also, having a prelim in Alaska and having to get judges and MGA there is not cheap or easy. So thank you for bringing the Miss Gay America System to Alaska, it is a complete honor to have you as an MGA Promoter.
Lastly I want to send a shout out to Lamia Monroe. She was stepping down as Miss Gay Alaska America and was the first Miss Alaska to compete at MGA. You did your state so proud and getting to know you better has been amazing. You are an intelligent and talented queen. Congrats on a great reign and don’t give up on becoming Miss Gay America.
Driving back to the hotel the Northern Lights were out and absolutely beautiful. Being in Alaska was a surreal experience, I only wish I could have stayed longer.
The next stop was Miss Gay Michigan America in Detroit.
This contest had 7 contestants and these girls were battling. This was a fabulous prelim. The Promoters, Robbie and Scott Beaton, selected a beautiful venue complete with a pre pageant Gala and a live band. The setting was so classy and elegant.
Gabriella Stratton Galore stepping down as Miss Gay Michigan America and looked so stunning all night. A huge congrats to her for a wonderful reign and placing Top 10 at Miss Gay America 2024. Keirsten LePaige took home the crown and became the new Miss Gay Michigan America!!! Keirsten along with her 1st alt, Katrina Alexis Monet, will be headed to Little Rock this January as they compete to become the next Miss Gay America.
Although she didn’t get her ticket to MGA, Lavendar LaRue had one of the cutest talents I’ve seen this season. So fun to watch.
It’s always a good time to hang out with my MGA sisters Deva, Tati, Dex, and Jennifer Foxx even if they did make me ride in the trunk.
Next I headed to the southern coast for Miss Gay Louisiana America. Louisiana had 18 contestants!!!!! This is the largest prelim of the year and a lot of credit is owed to Aubrey Sinclaire. Aubrey worked so hard to get prelims and contestants AND make sure all 18 showed up to compete. Way to go Aubrey, I hope to see you return to MGA soon.
David Green is the Promoter for MGLA along with Miss Gay Southern Elegance America. He has been a part of the MGA system for a long time and truly shows he runs a well oiled machine and wonderful contest. Fun fact: I was once Team Green at MGA in 2015.
Sarina Styles ultimately walked away with the win and is the new Miss Gay Louisiana America. Also returning to MGA this year as the 1st alt is Fancy Rae.
It was a well fought contest and a fun 3 nights in Alexandria LA.
I had a great time hanging out after the pageant with Brian, Joey, Tati, Blair & Sasha. That was an interesting night lol.
We were able to raise $630 for Stand For The Silent. Special thanks to Clay Gore for selling the raffle tickets.
The very next day it was time to catch a flight to Las Vegas for Miss Gay Sin City America. Vegas is one of my favorite cities so I was excited to be back. We had 7 contestants for Miss Gay Sin City America.
Stepping down was Ada Vox who was also a Top 10 finalist at MGA 2024. She sang beautifully and looked amazing all night.
This was a great contest with a celebrity filled audience from Hot Chocolate to Lawanda Jackson and the Hamburger Marys Vegas Show Director as well as a Forever MGA, Tiffany Bonet.
John and David are the promoters and did a great job gathering some fantastic contestants.
At the end of the night Tabbi Katt was the winner and will be joined by her 1st alt Tia Wanna Ross at Miss Gay America 2025.
I stayed in Vegas for a few days to celebrate my birthday and Asia O’Hara (MGA 2016) was kind enough to get me tickets to see the RuPaul Live Show. It was a phenomenal show and of course Asia was a star!!!!
Closing out August, I traveled to Charlotte, North Carolina to work at the new Scorpio Charlotte. Y’all, this venue is beautiful and they know how to pack a crowd. I was lucky enough to work with my MGA sister and now Miss Gay USofA, Jessica Jade. We had a blast on and off stage and I hope to return soon.
Preliminaries coming up for September are….
Miss Gay Fancy America
September 7th
Raleigh NC
Miss Gay Delaware America
September 15th
Wilmington Delaware
Miss Gay Texas America
September 18-20th
Houston TX
Miss Gay Maryland America
September 21st
Baltimore MD
Miss Gay Southwest America
September 22nd
Houston TX
Miss Gay Arkansas America
September 27-28th
Little Rock
Miss Gay Midwest America
September 29th
Columbus Ohio.
Our Stand for the Silent total stands at $2910
Miss Gay America 2024
Dessie Love Blake
I was both looking forward to going to Alaska, but not looking forward to the flight time. After about 10 hours of travel, I finally landed in Juneau around 1am. When the sun came up the scenery was absolutely beautiful and it was time for a pageant. There were 4 contestants with the best names; Athena Nuff, Cry Baby, Dyanne Dystopia, & Osha Violation.
In the end Osha was victorious in becoming the new Miss Gay Alaska America. Osha and her 1st alt Dyanne Dystopia will compete at Miss Gay America 2025.
I want to send a huge thank you to the Promoter Gigi Monroe. You not only put together one hell of a pageant, but you understood how far girls had to travel to compete and you had sponsorships to help them even come compete. That was very touching to me. Also, having a prelim in Alaska and having to get judges and MGA there is not cheap or easy. So thank you for bringing the Miss Gay America System to Alaska, it is a complete honor to have you as an MGA Promoter.
Lastly I want to send a shout out to Lamia Monroe. She was stepping down as Miss Gay Alaska America and was the first Miss Alaska to compete at MGA. You did your state so proud and getting to know you better has been amazing. You are an intelligent and talented queen. Congrats on a great reign and don’t give up on becoming Miss Gay America.
Driving back to the hotel the Northern Lights were out and absolutely beautiful. Being in Alaska was a surreal experience, I only wish I could have stayed longer.
The next stop was Miss Gay Michigan America in Detroit.
This contest had 7 contestants and these girls were battling. This was a fabulous prelim. The Promoters, Robbie and Scott Beaton, selected a beautiful venue complete with a pre pageant Gala and a live band. The setting was so classy and elegant.
Gabriella Stratton Galore stepping down as Miss Gay Michigan America and looked so stunning all night. A huge congrats to her for a wonderful reign and placing Top 10 at Miss Gay America 2024. Keirsten LePaige took home the crown and became the new Miss Gay Michigan America!!! Keirsten along with her 1st alt, Katrina Alexis Monet, will be headed to Little Rock this January as they compete to become the next Miss Gay America.
Although she didn’t get her ticket to MGA, Lavendar LaRue had one of the cutest talents I’ve seen this season. So fun to watch.
It’s always a good time to hang out with my MGA sisters Deva, Tati, Dex, and Jennifer Foxx even if they did make me ride in the trunk.
Next I headed to the southern coast for Miss Gay Louisiana America. Louisiana had 18 contestants!!!!! This is the largest prelim of the year and a lot of credit is owed to Aubrey Sinclaire. Aubrey worked so hard to get prelims and contestants AND make sure all 18 showed up to compete. Way to go Aubrey, I hope to see you return to MGA soon.
David Green is the Promoter for MGLA along with Miss Gay Southern Elegance America. He has been a part of the MGA system for a long time and truly shows he runs a well oiled machine and wonderful contest. Fun fact: I was once Team Green at MGA in 2015.
Sarina Styles ultimately walked away with the win and is the new Miss Gay Louisiana America. Also returning to MGA this year as the 1st alt is Fancy Rae.
It was a well fought contest and a fun 3 nights in Alexandria LA.
I had a great time hanging out after the pageant with Brian, Joey, Tati, Blair & Sasha. That was an interesting night lol.
We were able to raise $630 for Stand For The Silent. Special thanks to Clay Gore for selling the raffle tickets.
The very next day it was time to catch a flight to Las Vegas for Miss Gay Sin City America. Vegas is one of my favorite cities so I was excited to be back. We had 7 contestants for Miss Gay Sin City America.
Stepping down was Ada Vox who was also a Top 10 finalist at MGA 2024. She sang beautifully and looked amazing all night.
This was a great contest with a celebrity filled audience from Hot Chocolate to Lawanda Jackson and the Hamburger Marys Vegas Show Director as well as a Forever MGA, Tiffany Bonet.
John and David are the promoters and did a great job gathering some fantastic contestants.
At the end of the night Tabbi Katt was the winner and will be joined by her 1st alt Tia Wanna Ross at Miss Gay America 2025.
I stayed in Vegas for a few days to celebrate my birthday and Asia O’Hara (MGA 2016) was kind enough to get me tickets to see the RuPaul Live Show. It was a phenomenal show and of course Asia was a star!!!!
Closing out August, I traveled to Charlotte, North Carolina to work at the new Scorpio Charlotte. Y’all, this venue is beautiful and they know how to pack a crowd. I was lucky enough to work with my MGA sister and now Miss Gay USofA, Jessica Jade. We had a blast on and off stage and I hope to return soon.
Preliminaries coming up for September are….
Miss Gay Fancy America
September 7th
Raleigh NC
Miss Gay Delaware America
September 15th
Wilmington Delaware
Miss Gay Texas America
September 18-20th
Houston TX
Miss Gay Maryland America
September 21st
Baltimore MD
Miss Gay Southwest America
September 22nd
Houston TX
Miss Gay Arkansas America
September 27-28th
Little Rock
Miss Gay Midwest America
September 29th
Columbus Ohio.
Our Stand for the Silent total stands at $2910
Miss Gay America 2024
Dessie Love Blake
Love Notes
Volume 6
June is Pride month and wow did it start with a bang and lots of sunlight.
I was honored to start the month sharing the stage at the Brazoria County Pride with Chevelle Brooks and Kalani Ross. Brazoria is far from the big city; sandwiched between Houston and the steamy Gulf of Mexico. It was an outdoor event in Texas so as you can imagine, we sweat just a little. They had a great turnout and the crowd was really receptive to the show.
June 2nd was no cooler just a 5 hour drive east to New Orleans to perform at Miss Gay New Orleans America, a city prelim to Miss Gay Louisiana America that had a star studded line up including six Miss Gay America’s. Persana Shoulders was the promoter and made sure she was going to put on one hell of a show. Aubrey Sinclair did a great job tending to her contestants and officiated a clean pageant. I got to close out the show doing a duet with my MGA 2014 sister/ Miss Gay USofA 2024 Jessica Jade. It was lovely to spend time with MGA Sisters Nicole Dubois, Raquel Chavalier, Andora, and Dex.
The following weekend took me to the beautiful, AND COOLER, Minneapolis, Minnesota for a Taylor Swift Flip Phone Brunch on Saturday at the Union Rooftop Restaurant and Sunday in the rooftop of Crave Restaurant for an ‘80s vs ‘90s brunch with Sasha Cassadine.
Sunday evening was spent with the national All American Goddess pageant in which I was privileged to walk the stage representing the Excellence of the Miss Gay America pageant system .
After a long and rewarding weekend, I flew back home to Houston to host a distinguished panel of corporate leadership to discuss the importance of LGBTQ inclusion in the workplace. The panel, which was organized by the Australian Consulate in Houston, included: Jason Limerick, Head of Culture, Inclusion and Leadership at Woodside Energy; Tammi Wallace, President, Houston LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce; Joshua Armstrong, Founder, We the Wild; and Gabrielle Hall, Consul General of Australia in Houston. It was nice to be reminded that there are allies within corporations working hard to make a safe space for all types of people with all types of talents because its kind and it’s simply good business to do so! Did you know that Australia currently has an openly gay Foreign Minister???? The Foreign Minister would be like the Secretary of State for the USA.
Later in the week I was asked to the Houston Symphony. No, not to enjoy a bit of classical music, but to host an ABBA After Party with a smile and a police bullhorn without the cool little walkie talkie thing on it. People of all ages were dressed in their disco attire and took to the dance floor while I drew tickets and passed out door prizes to our joyful guests.
I closed out the month of June with a 6 day trip to Phoenix, Arizona where the sun feels 100 degrees hotter for no reason.
The first day I got to share lunch at The Cheesecake Factory (one of mine and Hot Chocolate’s favorite places) with Daniel Eckstrom, Blair Williams, Coco Montrese, Kirby Kolby, Tatiana Voche, Tiffany Bonet and Hot Chocolate. We were all in Phoenix to perform at Charlie’s for TIMELESS - A Celebration of Miss Gay America Forevers and Miss Gay Arizona America Forevers. This was two nights of 1000 laughs and 500 hugs, 2 fireball shots dodged and a single feather for Franzia Mckenzie IYKYK. That evening I got to sit and chat with my sister Coco Montrese over chicken strips and gravy as she had her first Whataburger experience! The tea she spilled that night will forever be hot. I just feel so lucky. This wasn’t listed on the prize package but these moments are priceless.
Friday Barbra Seville, Clay and I went to BAM KAZAM in Scottsdale,AZ. This place is an indoor team building playground where the player is a character in a video game. We had to make our way through mental and physical exercises conquering multiple levels to accomplish a mission. We swung from huge hanging Swiss cheese slices, walked a tight rope, played multiple rounds of Jeopardy, operated a spaceship in distress and Barbra and Clay sacrificed me to the growling rainbow spirit voice coming over the speaker. The two hours felt like an entire day but we had so much fun.
The next day we were sore but I had two shows to do. First was the Follies Show at Kobalt put on by Western States Promoter, Jay Foster. The air in the venue wasn’t working properly so we sweat that night. It was still fun to spend more time with my MGA Sisters and the Forever Miss Gay Arizona’s.
Then, Barbra had invited me to perform along side Geo - Mr. Gay America 2024 at YUM BAR so I had to suit up. We had a blast and the crowd was so generous and maybe shared a little too much about work place sex. I got to see Geo put on several star characters including Harry Styles and Freddy Mercury! Glad to share the reign of such a talented king!
Miss Gay Arizona America personal interviews took place on Saturday, June 29 as well. The contestants were really well spoken and none of them had a bad interview. It was amazing how many of them were able to just be vulnerable and open up to tell us their stories. This is the most humbling experience for me and I appreciate these special moments so much.
On Sunday, we gathered at the Tempe Center of the Arts to celebrate the reign of Miss Gay Arizona America Franzia Mckensie and to crown a new keeper of the flame. Daniel Eckstrom continues to put on a seamless pageant after nearly 20 years as a Miss Gay America pageant promoter. Thank you, Daniel, for putting together such a great experience for everyone involved. Thank you and Nick for hauling me around everywhere with all my luggage.
It’s Sunday evening and the theater is full. Hosts Mya McKenzie and Espressa Grande were a perfect duo and kept the audience entertained with their whit and comedy.
The house lights dim and the talent competition gets underway. All 13 contestants brought something special to the stage and showed a diverse range of entertainment. I did have a highlight moment watching Chris Mort do their “Oscar the Grouch” talent!!! Chris won Miss Gay Phoenix America and went on to place 2nd Alternate at their first state pageant and left me impressed.
I had the opportunity to share the stage with Mr. Gay America 2024 - Geo, in a duet performance of Bohemian Rhapsody. We both won our crowns with Bohemian Rhapsody talents so it seemed fitting.
Congratulations to the new Miss Gay Arizona America 2024 Princess Prozac and MGAA First Alternate China Collins for your placements and thank you for your excellence. Both contestants have been in the Top 5 at MGA in the past.
I’d like to give special recognition to Wilma Carstart for her persistence and determination. When she didn’t capture the crown at Miss Gay Arizona America, she packed her suitcase, showered and met me at orientation for Western States America the very next morning. Thanks for showing your excellence.
Miss Gay Arizona Top 5 placements:
W- Princess Prozac
1 Alt China Collins
2 Alt Chris Mort
3 Alt Anya C Mann
4 Alt Sonja J Savage
Thank you Phoenix for helping us raise $270 for Stand for the Silent. That brings our running total to $2130 (including $360 raised at Western States America).
July 13th is the next chance to qualify for Miss Gay America 2025. Miss Gay Southern Elegance will take place in Jackson Mississippi with Promoter David Green.
Reach out to me or David for more info.
Hoping you are all able to stay cool during the summer months and remember to take time for yourself.
Miss Gay America 2024
Dessie Love Blake
I was honored to start the month sharing the stage at the Brazoria County Pride with Chevelle Brooks and Kalani Ross. Brazoria is far from the big city; sandwiched between Houston and the steamy Gulf of Mexico. It was an outdoor event in Texas so as you can imagine, we sweat just a little. They had a great turnout and the crowd was really receptive to the show.
June 2nd was no cooler just a 5 hour drive east to New Orleans to perform at Miss Gay New Orleans America, a city prelim to Miss Gay Louisiana America that had a star studded line up including six Miss Gay America’s. Persana Shoulders was the promoter and made sure she was going to put on one hell of a show. Aubrey Sinclair did a great job tending to her contestants and officiated a clean pageant. I got to close out the show doing a duet with my MGA 2014 sister/ Miss Gay USofA 2024 Jessica Jade. It was lovely to spend time with MGA Sisters Nicole Dubois, Raquel Chavalier, Andora, and Dex.
The following weekend took me to the beautiful, AND COOLER, Minneapolis, Minnesota for a Taylor Swift Flip Phone Brunch on Saturday at the Union Rooftop Restaurant and Sunday in the rooftop of Crave Restaurant for an ‘80s vs ‘90s brunch with Sasha Cassadine.
Sunday evening was spent with the national All American Goddess pageant in which I was privileged to walk the stage representing the Excellence of the Miss Gay America pageant system .
After a long and rewarding weekend, I flew back home to Houston to host a distinguished panel of corporate leadership to discuss the importance of LGBTQ inclusion in the workplace. The panel, which was organized by the Australian Consulate in Houston, included: Jason Limerick, Head of Culture, Inclusion and Leadership at Woodside Energy; Tammi Wallace, President, Houston LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce; Joshua Armstrong, Founder, We the Wild; and Gabrielle Hall, Consul General of Australia in Houston. It was nice to be reminded that there are allies within corporations working hard to make a safe space for all types of people with all types of talents because its kind and it’s simply good business to do so! Did you know that Australia currently has an openly gay Foreign Minister???? The Foreign Minister would be like the Secretary of State for the USA.
Later in the week I was asked to the Houston Symphony. No, not to enjoy a bit of classical music, but to host an ABBA After Party with a smile and a police bullhorn without the cool little walkie talkie thing on it. People of all ages were dressed in their disco attire and took to the dance floor while I drew tickets and passed out door prizes to our joyful guests.
I closed out the month of June with a 6 day trip to Phoenix, Arizona where the sun feels 100 degrees hotter for no reason.
The first day I got to share lunch at The Cheesecake Factory (one of mine and Hot Chocolate’s favorite places) with Daniel Eckstrom, Blair Williams, Coco Montrese, Kirby Kolby, Tatiana Voche, Tiffany Bonet and Hot Chocolate. We were all in Phoenix to perform at Charlie’s for TIMELESS - A Celebration of Miss Gay America Forevers and Miss Gay Arizona America Forevers. This was two nights of 1000 laughs and 500 hugs, 2 fireball shots dodged and a single feather for Franzia Mckenzie IYKYK. That evening I got to sit and chat with my sister Coco Montrese over chicken strips and gravy as she had her first Whataburger experience! The tea she spilled that night will forever be hot. I just feel so lucky. This wasn’t listed on the prize package but these moments are priceless.
Friday Barbra Seville, Clay and I went to BAM KAZAM in Scottsdale,AZ. This place is an indoor team building playground where the player is a character in a video game. We had to make our way through mental and physical exercises conquering multiple levels to accomplish a mission. We swung from huge hanging Swiss cheese slices, walked a tight rope, played multiple rounds of Jeopardy, operated a spaceship in distress and Barbra and Clay sacrificed me to the growling rainbow spirit voice coming over the speaker. The two hours felt like an entire day but we had so much fun.
The next day we were sore but I had two shows to do. First was the Follies Show at Kobalt put on by Western States Promoter, Jay Foster. The air in the venue wasn’t working properly so we sweat that night. It was still fun to spend more time with my MGA Sisters and the Forever Miss Gay Arizona’s.
Then, Barbra had invited me to perform along side Geo - Mr. Gay America 2024 at YUM BAR so I had to suit up. We had a blast and the crowd was so generous and maybe shared a little too much about work place sex. I got to see Geo put on several star characters including Harry Styles and Freddy Mercury! Glad to share the reign of such a talented king!
Miss Gay Arizona America personal interviews took place on Saturday, June 29 as well. The contestants were really well spoken and none of them had a bad interview. It was amazing how many of them were able to just be vulnerable and open up to tell us their stories. This is the most humbling experience for me and I appreciate these special moments so much.
On Sunday, we gathered at the Tempe Center of the Arts to celebrate the reign of Miss Gay Arizona America Franzia Mckensie and to crown a new keeper of the flame. Daniel Eckstrom continues to put on a seamless pageant after nearly 20 years as a Miss Gay America pageant promoter. Thank you, Daniel, for putting together such a great experience for everyone involved. Thank you and Nick for hauling me around everywhere with all my luggage.
It’s Sunday evening and the theater is full. Hosts Mya McKenzie and Espressa Grande were a perfect duo and kept the audience entertained with their whit and comedy.
The house lights dim and the talent competition gets underway. All 13 contestants brought something special to the stage and showed a diverse range of entertainment. I did have a highlight moment watching Chris Mort do their “Oscar the Grouch” talent!!! Chris won Miss Gay Phoenix America and went on to place 2nd Alternate at their first state pageant and left me impressed.
I had the opportunity to share the stage with Mr. Gay America 2024 - Geo, in a duet performance of Bohemian Rhapsody. We both won our crowns with Bohemian Rhapsody talents so it seemed fitting.
Congratulations to the new Miss Gay Arizona America 2024 Princess Prozac and MGAA First Alternate China Collins for your placements and thank you for your excellence. Both contestants have been in the Top 5 at MGA in the past.
I’d like to give special recognition to Wilma Carstart for her persistence and determination. When she didn’t capture the crown at Miss Gay Arizona America, she packed her suitcase, showered and met me at orientation for Western States America the very next morning. Thanks for showing your excellence.
Miss Gay Arizona Top 5 placements:
W- Princess Prozac
1 Alt China Collins
2 Alt Chris Mort
3 Alt Anya C Mann
4 Alt Sonja J Savage
Thank you Phoenix for helping us raise $270 for Stand for the Silent. That brings our running total to $2130 (including $360 raised at Western States America).
July 13th is the next chance to qualify for Miss Gay America 2025. Miss Gay Southern Elegance will take place in Jackson Mississippi with Promoter David Green.
Reach out to me or David for more info.
Hoping you are all able to stay cool during the summer months and remember to take time for yourself.
Miss Gay America 2024
Dessie Love Blake
Love Notes
Volume 5
There couldn’t have possibly been a better way to start off the month of May than to be in Cozumel Mexico. Performing at POSE Bar is always a lot of fun and even more so this time because we were celebrating the Birthday of their resident queen, Rebecca Wonder.
Rebecca is fabulous entertainer and so sweet. If you ever get down to Cozumel, go show her some love.
Next it was off to Baton Rouge. Although I have performed all over Louisiana, this was my first time to work in Baton Rouge. Friday night I worked at Mother’s Lounge in Downtown Baton Rouge. The show was hosted by former Miss Gay Louisiana America, Santana A. Savage.
Santana and I have known each other for a while and she is always a lot of fun to be around. The venue was lovely and I felt lots of love from the audience.
Saturday night I worked at Splash. The stage, lights, and video walls are simply amazing and made me feel like a rock star! This venue was so beautiful and everyone was so kind. I was able to work with Avery Anne, who I hadn’t seen in a while so it was good to catch up.
The following weekend I traveled north to Oklahoma for the second prelim of the season; Miss Gay Oklahoma America.
My trip started Friday night at The Boom in OKC. The show was called Iconic and was hosted by Maria Isabel. Also on the show was my 2014 sister, Renee Hilton, along with Carmen and Destiny. OKC has a great little gay area with several bars, restaurants and a hotel.
Saturday was Miss Gay Oklahoma America celebrating the reign of Kiana Davenport Jade with 7 fabulous contestants vying to wear the next crown. Paul Hall & Adrienne Fischer, the promoters of Miss Gay Oklahoma held this pageant in Lawton Oklahoma, which I was a little worried about at first, but there was a multitude of community support who turned out for the event after seeing news of it on TV.
When I arrived for registration, they had a badge for Clay, my husband, that read “MGA First-Gentleman”. This meant a lot to him and was a very sweet gesture. The venue was the Cameron Theatre which is located on Cameron University Campus which meant, no alcohol! I am not much of a drinker so that was perfectly okay with me and it also meant I wouldn’t have to deal with any issues of someone having too much.
The pageant ran very smoothly without any issues at all. Paul and Adrienne did a wonderful job of planning and executing this prelim.
It was really a back and forth battle to where category awards were spread around to multiple contestants and you didn’t quite know who was about to win. Tracy La Louisianne was victorious that night becoming the new Miss Gay Oklahoma America. Fun fact about Tracy, she was an Emmy nominated TV news personality! Also qualifying to represent Oklahoma is Yokisoba Zay Brooks Michaels. Yokisoba was the talent winner and had one of my favorite interviews of the prelim.
We were also able to raise $334 for Stand for the Silent during the pageant! Thank you Lawton, OK for your generosity.
Dallas TX was the next stop for a National Walk at Miss Gay USofA.
My beautiful Houston sister, Porsche Paris, was stepping down and forever MGA Jessica Jade became the new Miss Gay USofA!
I was able to see several of my MGA sisters; Sally Sparkles, Lauren Taylor, Dextaci, Pattaya Hart, & Charity Case.
I watched the pageant from the back of the room so my hair didn’t block anyone and spent the evening chatting with AAG Tabbi Katt and Pattaya.
I didn’t stay for crowning because I had an early flight out for Miss Gay Southern America.
Closing out the month of May was Miss Gay Southern America. The prelim was held in Johnson City TN. Ritchie Roark and Robbie Davis were excellent promoters and planned the event so well.
Getting to Johnson City was a different story! I left Dallas TX at 7am headed to Atlanta to change planes. We get to the Atlanta airspace and were sent to Birmingham because we didn’t have enough fuel to keep circling. We landed in Birmingham and sat on the runway for 3 hours waiting for fuel. Once we were fueled up and ready to go, another issue. Another hour or so passes and we finally get back in the air. At this time I had missed my connecting flight so I had to decide to rent a car and drive, because I was supposed to work at New Beginnings that night, or catch the late flight into Johnson City. After speaking with Ritchie and Robbie we decided it was best to just wait for the flight 12 hours later I arrive in Johnson City TN.
I got to my room and there was a wonderful snack bag and desk covered in all of my favorite snacks. This made the long day of travel much better.
The next morning it was time for registration. We had two veteran contestants competing, Barbra Seville & Shelita Bonet Hoyle. Of course both ladies slayed in interview and it was off to lunch. I had always wanted to try TN BBQ and that exactly where we went. Tatiyanna Voche, Dextaci, Blair and I may or may not have ran off a family with some children in the booth near us.
The pageant ran smoothly without any hiccups. Barbra and Shelita were neck and neck the entire pageants coming down to 1 point! Barbra was victorious and became the new Miss Gay Southern America. Barbra and Shelita both qualify for MGA 2025.
After the pageant there wasn’t much open to eat, so we drove through Taco Bell and had a picnic in the hotel lobby. We had some of the best laughs and conversations and it was then I realized why being Miss Gay America is so special.
Looking forward to June I will be full of Pride!
Traveling to Minneapolis & Phoenix.
Miss Gay Arizona America will be held in Phoenix AZ on Sunday June 30th!
There are 14 girls qualified so I know this will be a battle!
For those looking for a Regional Prelim to qualify for MGA 2025, our next one is;
Miss Gay Western States America on July 1st in Phoenix AZ
Contact Jay Foster for more info.
Rebecca is fabulous entertainer and so sweet. If you ever get down to Cozumel, go show her some love.
Next it was off to Baton Rouge. Although I have performed all over Louisiana, this was my first time to work in Baton Rouge. Friday night I worked at Mother’s Lounge in Downtown Baton Rouge. The show was hosted by former Miss Gay Louisiana America, Santana A. Savage.
Santana and I have known each other for a while and she is always a lot of fun to be around. The venue was lovely and I felt lots of love from the audience.
Saturday night I worked at Splash. The stage, lights, and video walls are simply amazing and made me feel like a rock star! This venue was so beautiful and everyone was so kind. I was able to work with Avery Anne, who I hadn’t seen in a while so it was good to catch up.
The following weekend I traveled north to Oklahoma for the second prelim of the season; Miss Gay Oklahoma America.
My trip started Friday night at The Boom in OKC. The show was called Iconic and was hosted by Maria Isabel. Also on the show was my 2014 sister, Renee Hilton, along with Carmen and Destiny. OKC has a great little gay area with several bars, restaurants and a hotel.
Saturday was Miss Gay Oklahoma America celebrating the reign of Kiana Davenport Jade with 7 fabulous contestants vying to wear the next crown. Paul Hall & Adrienne Fischer, the promoters of Miss Gay Oklahoma held this pageant in Lawton Oklahoma, which I was a little worried about at first, but there was a multitude of community support who turned out for the event after seeing news of it on TV.
When I arrived for registration, they had a badge for Clay, my husband, that read “MGA First-Gentleman”. This meant a lot to him and was a very sweet gesture. The venue was the Cameron Theatre which is located on Cameron University Campus which meant, no alcohol! I am not much of a drinker so that was perfectly okay with me and it also meant I wouldn’t have to deal with any issues of someone having too much.
The pageant ran very smoothly without any issues at all. Paul and Adrienne did a wonderful job of planning and executing this prelim.
It was really a back and forth battle to where category awards were spread around to multiple contestants and you didn’t quite know who was about to win. Tracy La Louisianne was victorious that night becoming the new Miss Gay Oklahoma America. Fun fact about Tracy, she was an Emmy nominated TV news personality! Also qualifying to represent Oklahoma is Yokisoba Zay Brooks Michaels. Yokisoba was the talent winner and had one of my favorite interviews of the prelim.
We were also able to raise $334 for Stand for the Silent during the pageant! Thank you Lawton, OK for your generosity.
Dallas TX was the next stop for a National Walk at Miss Gay USofA.
My beautiful Houston sister, Porsche Paris, was stepping down and forever MGA Jessica Jade became the new Miss Gay USofA!
I was able to see several of my MGA sisters; Sally Sparkles, Lauren Taylor, Dextaci, Pattaya Hart, & Charity Case.
I watched the pageant from the back of the room so my hair didn’t block anyone and spent the evening chatting with AAG Tabbi Katt and Pattaya.
I didn’t stay for crowning because I had an early flight out for Miss Gay Southern America.
Closing out the month of May was Miss Gay Southern America. The prelim was held in Johnson City TN. Ritchie Roark and Robbie Davis were excellent promoters and planned the event so well.
Getting to Johnson City was a different story! I left Dallas TX at 7am headed to Atlanta to change planes. We get to the Atlanta airspace and were sent to Birmingham because we didn’t have enough fuel to keep circling. We landed in Birmingham and sat on the runway for 3 hours waiting for fuel. Once we were fueled up and ready to go, another issue. Another hour or so passes and we finally get back in the air. At this time I had missed my connecting flight so I had to decide to rent a car and drive, because I was supposed to work at New Beginnings that night, or catch the late flight into Johnson City. After speaking with Ritchie and Robbie we decided it was best to just wait for the flight 12 hours later I arrive in Johnson City TN.
I got to my room and there was a wonderful snack bag and desk covered in all of my favorite snacks. This made the long day of travel much better.
The next morning it was time for registration. We had two veteran contestants competing, Barbra Seville & Shelita Bonet Hoyle. Of course both ladies slayed in interview and it was off to lunch. I had always wanted to try TN BBQ and that exactly where we went. Tatiyanna Voche, Dextaci, Blair and I may or may not have ran off a family with some children in the booth near us.
The pageant ran smoothly without any hiccups. Barbra and Shelita were neck and neck the entire pageants coming down to 1 point! Barbra was victorious and became the new Miss Gay Southern America. Barbra and Shelita both qualify for MGA 2025.
After the pageant there wasn’t much open to eat, so we drove through Taco Bell and had a picnic in the hotel lobby. We had some of the best laughs and conversations and it was then I realized why being Miss Gay America is so special.
Looking forward to June I will be full of Pride!
Traveling to Minneapolis & Phoenix.
Miss Gay Arizona America will be held in Phoenix AZ on Sunday June 30th!
There are 14 girls qualified so I know this will be a battle!
For those looking for a Regional Prelim to qualify for MGA 2025, our next one is;
Miss Gay Western States America on July 1st in Phoenix AZ
Contact Jay Foster for more info.
Love Notes
Volume 4
I started the month of April hosting the Miss Gay Houston America pageant. Chloe Knox won Miss Gay Texas America as Miss Gay Houston America this past year, so this was her city step down. We had entertainment from some of the best of Texas America royalty such as; Violet S’Arbleu, Kendall Golightly, Ladarius Mirage Jackson, along with Mr Gay Houston America Angel Oxl. Congratulations to Padma Azz on winning and thank you to Angela Mercy for stepping in and doing this prelim.
A few nights later I had the honor of performing at the Houston Human Rights Campaign Dinner. The money they are able to raise in one night is outstanding. It was a red carpet event with the who’s who of Houston and Texas. It was great to share the stage with Chevelle Brooks and Alexyeus Paris.
Next up was one of my favorite yearly events, The Houston Art Car Ball presented by the Houston Orange Show. They have an Art Car Parade every year in Houston and they have the Ball the night before. The Ball is full of live music and up close viewing of the cars in the parade. The best part of this gig is getting to co-host with my good friend and forever Miss Gay Texas America, Kara Dion.
April seemed to be Taylor, Taylor and more Taylor! I co-hosted a Taylor Swift Tortured Poet album release party in Austin Texas. They sold out 400 tickets to this event which included a Taylor Swift Bingo, having a personal story written by a “tortured poet”, and an entire listening of the new album. It was great to meet and co-host with Noodles, courtesy of Extragrams.
Then I had the honor of performing at a wedding for a beautiful couple named Keith & Dustin. Fun story, Keith used to do Drag and we started at the same time. Actually, we performed against each other at our first talent nights and ended up tying. I won the tie breaker so I gave her half the money. She only performed a couple of years and even competed at Miss Gay Texas America. Back to the wedding, they wanted a 30 minute performance with costume changes and back up dancers. So I called Andy Seymour to put some dancers together and was grateful for the fabulous choreography and the ability to work with Catalina, Rachel, and Colton. After much thought about a 30 minute performance and costume changes, I decided I couldn’t do this alone. I called up my drag daughter, Muffy Blake Vanderbilt, and we did an illusion concert. I did Taylor Swift and Pink while she did Adele. Everything went so flawlessly well except for Clay placing the mic stand too early while the dancers and I had to work around him. It’s hard to find good help these days lol.
The wedding was so phenomenal and over the top. One of the most stunning weddings I have ever seen.
The next day my cast and I performed for a Brunch Show for the last time at Electric Feel Good. We had been doing this brunch for almost 3 years. Unfortunately it is no longer going to be open. Thank you to the staff for making us a part of your family.
To close out the month of April, Barbara Seville showed me around Phoenix, Arizona for a drag gauntlet. We performed at The Hot Chicks brunch, Kobalt, Butler’s, Charlie’s and twice at YUM BAR, for a total of 6 shows in 2 days. I was screaming “Barbara, Please” by Sunday night.
Hot Chick was the first stop for Saturday brunch. This was a neat place in Scottsdale, AZ which I found out was “Bachelorette Central”. I worked with Barbra and the reigning Miss Gay Arizona America, Franzia McKenzie. I didn’t get much time with Franzia at Miss Gay America so it was nice to be backstage and cut up together. Wishing her a wonderful step down on June 30th.
Then we had a mid day stop at Kobalt for the Follies Show. This show was run by our Miss Gay Western States promoter, Jay Foster. The Kobalt bar was beautiful. It had a lovely stage with great lighting and a video wall. This show was hosted by Miss Gay Western States America, Olivia Gardens and Minx Demilo. Also on the show was Barbra Seville, Jeremiah Daniels, Wilma Carstart (I love this name lol), and Fiona the Hippo. The girls were all so lovely and put on a wonderful show.
We closed out Saturday night at the Yum-Bar Melrose. In the audience was Catia Lee Love and the promoters for Miss Gay Sin City America, John Griffey & David Hernandez. Barbra Seville hosted the show and was one of the funniest emcees I have ever heard. She pushes the line a little further than most and it really gets a laugh. Also on the show was the wonderful Sir P. Nate.
Now for a little inside story on this day. I am a very picky eater and Barbra would ask what I wanted to eat and I would say something like Wendy’s. She says “Silence, (in her RuPaul voice) I have just the place.” We would end up at some kind of Thai Indian BBQ place with nothing I would usually eat. Needless to say, I didn’t eat much this day and by the last show I had the worst migraine and was getting sick in the show between numbers. I want to personally apologize to Dane for having to clean the trash can lol.
We made it through Saturday and had a few hours sleep before it was time to do it all over again.
Sunday we started back at the Yum-Bar for brunch. Barbra hosted the show and we were joined by the stunning Aubrey Ghalichi. If you ever make it to Phoenix, this is definitely a spot to check out. Mid-Sunday Barbra and I co-hosted a quaint BINGO game at Butler’s.
Late Sunday we closed out the trip at Charlie’s. This show was co-hosted by the hilarious Pussy LeHoot & Adriana Galliano. I really enjoyed the backstage banter and getting to know more about the Miss Gay Arizona America history.
I have to say a HUGE thank you to Barbra for booking me on this trip and showing me around. We had a great time and I can’t wait to return in June.
My Promoter Spotlight this month falls on the Promoters for Miss Gay Southern America.
Ritchie Roark lives in Johnson City TN and works in accounting. Albeit behind the scenes, he has been involved with drag for around 30 years. In 2020 he was chosen as the Director of Operations for Team Gay Southern America and had the opportunity to become owner/promoter along with his husband Robbie. They are also both stakeholders for Mr Gay America. He currently serves as Treasurer for TriPrideTN, a 501c3 responsible for bringing a Pride celebration to rural northeast TN, where they were named the largest single-day festival in the region with an attendance of over 14,000 for their 2023 parade and festival
Robbie Davis lives in Johnson City, TN and works as a Vice President and Banking Center Manager for First Horizon Bank with over 20 years in the banking industry. He also serves as Vice President for the Washington County Johnson City Animal Shelter Foundation Board. He and his husband Ritchie are the new Promoters for Miss Gay Southern America. He has been involved with the Miss Gay America system since 2020 and is excited for his new role as a Promoter.
Looking forward to May, we have two Miss Gay America preliminaries. Miss Gay Oklahoma America on Saturday May 18th in Lawton OK and Miss Gay Southern America on May 26th in Johnson City TN.
Miss Gay Southern America is the first open regional prelim of the year. If you are interested, reach out to Ritchie Roark or Robbie Davis. Ritchie and Robbie are also my Promoter Spotlight this month so you can find out more about them in their Bio’s.
Also in May I will be making stops in Cozumel, Mexico May 3rd & 4th, Baton Rouge LA May 10th & 11th, and Oklahoma City May 17th.
See you on the road.
Dessie Love Blake
Miss Gay America 2024
A few nights later I had the honor of performing at the Houston Human Rights Campaign Dinner. The money they are able to raise in one night is outstanding. It was a red carpet event with the who’s who of Houston and Texas. It was great to share the stage with Chevelle Brooks and Alexyeus Paris.
Next up was one of my favorite yearly events, The Houston Art Car Ball presented by the Houston Orange Show. They have an Art Car Parade every year in Houston and they have the Ball the night before. The Ball is full of live music and up close viewing of the cars in the parade. The best part of this gig is getting to co-host with my good friend and forever Miss Gay Texas America, Kara Dion.
April seemed to be Taylor, Taylor and more Taylor! I co-hosted a Taylor Swift Tortured Poet album release party in Austin Texas. They sold out 400 tickets to this event which included a Taylor Swift Bingo, having a personal story written by a “tortured poet”, and an entire listening of the new album. It was great to meet and co-host with Noodles, courtesy of Extragrams.
Then I had the honor of performing at a wedding for a beautiful couple named Keith & Dustin. Fun story, Keith used to do Drag and we started at the same time. Actually, we performed against each other at our first talent nights and ended up tying. I won the tie breaker so I gave her half the money. She only performed a couple of years and even competed at Miss Gay Texas America. Back to the wedding, they wanted a 30 minute performance with costume changes and back up dancers. So I called Andy Seymour to put some dancers together and was grateful for the fabulous choreography and the ability to work with Catalina, Rachel, and Colton. After much thought about a 30 minute performance and costume changes, I decided I couldn’t do this alone. I called up my drag daughter, Muffy Blake Vanderbilt, and we did an illusion concert. I did Taylor Swift and Pink while she did Adele. Everything went so flawlessly well except for Clay placing the mic stand too early while the dancers and I had to work around him. It’s hard to find good help these days lol.
The wedding was so phenomenal and over the top. One of the most stunning weddings I have ever seen.
The next day my cast and I performed for a Brunch Show for the last time at Electric Feel Good. We had been doing this brunch for almost 3 years. Unfortunately it is no longer going to be open. Thank you to the staff for making us a part of your family.
To close out the month of April, Barbara Seville showed me around Phoenix, Arizona for a drag gauntlet. We performed at The Hot Chicks brunch, Kobalt, Butler’s, Charlie’s and twice at YUM BAR, for a total of 6 shows in 2 days. I was screaming “Barbara, Please” by Sunday night.
Hot Chick was the first stop for Saturday brunch. This was a neat place in Scottsdale, AZ which I found out was “Bachelorette Central”. I worked with Barbra and the reigning Miss Gay Arizona America, Franzia McKenzie. I didn’t get much time with Franzia at Miss Gay America so it was nice to be backstage and cut up together. Wishing her a wonderful step down on June 30th.
Then we had a mid day stop at Kobalt for the Follies Show. This show was run by our Miss Gay Western States promoter, Jay Foster. The Kobalt bar was beautiful. It had a lovely stage with great lighting and a video wall. This show was hosted by Miss Gay Western States America, Olivia Gardens and Minx Demilo. Also on the show was Barbra Seville, Jeremiah Daniels, Wilma Carstart (I love this name lol), and Fiona the Hippo. The girls were all so lovely and put on a wonderful show.
We closed out Saturday night at the Yum-Bar Melrose. In the audience was Catia Lee Love and the promoters for Miss Gay Sin City America, John Griffey & David Hernandez. Barbra Seville hosted the show and was one of the funniest emcees I have ever heard. She pushes the line a little further than most and it really gets a laugh. Also on the show was the wonderful Sir P. Nate.
Now for a little inside story on this day. I am a very picky eater and Barbra would ask what I wanted to eat and I would say something like Wendy’s. She says “Silence, (in her RuPaul voice) I have just the place.” We would end up at some kind of Thai Indian BBQ place with nothing I would usually eat. Needless to say, I didn’t eat much this day and by the last show I had the worst migraine and was getting sick in the show between numbers. I want to personally apologize to Dane for having to clean the trash can lol.
We made it through Saturday and had a few hours sleep before it was time to do it all over again.
Sunday we started back at the Yum-Bar for brunch. Barbra hosted the show and we were joined by the stunning Aubrey Ghalichi. If you ever make it to Phoenix, this is definitely a spot to check out. Mid-Sunday Barbra and I co-hosted a quaint BINGO game at Butler’s.
Late Sunday we closed out the trip at Charlie’s. This show was co-hosted by the hilarious Pussy LeHoot & Adriana Galliano. I really enjoyed the backstage banter and getting to know more about the Miss Gay Arizona America history.
I have to say a HUGE thank you to Barbra for booking me on this trip and showing me around. We had a great time and I can’t wait to return in June.
My Promoter Spotlight this month falls on the Promoters for Miss Gay Southern America.
Ritchie Roark lives in Johnson City TN and works in accounting. Albeit behind the scenes, he has been involved with drag for around 30 years. In 2020 he was chosen as the Director of Operations for Team Gay Southern America and had the opportunity to become owner/promoter along with his husband Robbie. They are also both stakeholders for Mr Gay America. He currently serves as Treasurer for TriPrideTN, a 501c3 responsible for bringing a Pride celebration to rural northeast TN, where they were named the largest single-day festival in the region with an attendance of over 14,000 for their 2023 parade and festival
Robbie Davis lives in Johnson City, TN and works as a Vice President and Banking Center Manager for First Horizon Bank with over 20 years in the banking industry. He also serves as Vice President for the Washington County Johnson City Animal Shelter Foundation Board. He and his husband Ritchie are the new Promoters for Miss Gay Southern America. He has been involved with the Miss Gay America system since 2020 and is excited for his new role as a Promoter.
Looking forward to May, we have two Miss Gay America preliminaries. Miss Gay Oklahoma America on Saturday May 18th in Lawton OK and Miss Gay Southern America on May 26th in Johnson City TN.
Miss Gay Southern America is the first open regional prelim of the year. If you are interested, reach out to Ritchie Roark or Robbie Davis. Ritchie and Robbie are also my Promoter Spotlight this month so you can find out more about them in their Bio’s.
Also in May I will be making stops in Cozumel, Mexico May 3rd & 4th, Baton Rouge LA May 10th & 11th, and Oklahoma City May 17th.
See you on the road.
Dessie Love Blake
Miss Gay America 2024
Love Notes
Volume 3
March started off perfectly with an appearance at the Allies for Hope Walk to End HIV in Houston. I got to do a meet and greet with the public for the first time as Miss Gay America. They had me host a dog costume contest as well, which was also a first for me.
My next stop was to the University of Houston Victoria to host their on campus Lip Sync Battle. The event was put on by the Student Life Group on campus and ran by the Director of Student Life, Freddie Cantu.
It was fun to watch these kids, I say kids but I guess they are adults, lip sync and come out of their shells in front of their peers.
Then, I traveled 5 hours south to Brownsville, Texas and performed at Bar B with Nathan C. Paris. Nathan is the Show Director at Bar B and a wonderful host. Nathan is also a former Mr. Gay Texas America. If you are ever in Brownsville, check it out.
I finally had the opportunity to work at the Pegasus in San Antonio. I have lived and performed in Texas my whole career but was never fortunate enough to be booked at the Pegasus until now. The Pegasus is home to some of the best talents in San Antonio. Talents like Layla LaRue, Desi M. Andrews, Theresa Matthews, Dakota Whitney and so many others. It is an outdoor stage but luckily it was Spring and we didn't sweat to death. Special thanks to Mike Rodriguez for the booking. I look forward to returning soon.
I’m sure the contestants and I shared the nerves and excitement for the first preliminary of the season at Miss Gay Missouri America at the beautiful Sun Theater in St. Louis.
This competition was really a hard fought battle. The entire top 8 were outstanding! The Miss Gay Missouri America Board; Tabbi Katt, Trixie LaRue, Jade Sinclair, Lexus Chaney (Emilio Olvera), & Sparkle Iman, ran that pageant like clock work. I applaud all 5 of you, along with Akasha Royale, for creating a spectacular show while effortlessly attending to everyone’s needs. They really have it figured out.
I truly enjoyed getting to spend some time with some Missouri Forevers and I was lucky enough to share a dressing room with Melinda Ryder on final night. I also had the pleasure of meeting Miss Gay America 1989, Vicki Vincent. She was the first Miss Gay Missouri America to capture the title of Miss Gay America.
Adria Andrews, Tatiyanna Voche', Tajma Stetson, Vicki Valentino, & Atheena Voce, you were a wonderful judges panel. You gave great critiques, were kind and supportive in interview and kept the pageant moving swiftly. Thank you for your time and talents.
Reba Lamkey you have the fastest fingers I have ever seen (on a 10 Key). It was such a pleasure to work with you as the tabulator and to share all the laughter together. I wish I could take you to every prelim with me.
Dieta Pepsi & Tabbi Katt were comedy gold on the mic. I really enjoyed the banter you had together. I think I am still missing some pieces of some stories.
Congratulations are in order for the first two members of the Miss Gay America class of 2025:
Miss Gay Missouri America -Vivian Versace
1st Alternate- Veronika Versace.
I can’t wait to see what you both bring to Little Rock in January.
I want to recognize a few individuals who really wowed me the week of Miss Gay Missouri America.
Penelope Booze- your interview was everything! You exuded so much personality and joy but in a controlled professional way. I really enjoyed hearing your story. Also, the talent you posses is simply wonderful. This may have been your first attempt in the Miss Gay America system but I can definitely see you being Miss Gay America if you keep at it.
Diva Coppafeel- That talent was out of this world!!!!!! I enjoyed the first part of your talent but when the second curtain opened and you had built a whole drum line contraption, my mind was blown. You were fascinating to watch and I applaud your talents.
Anna May West- Your black and white gown on prelim night and that costume for your prelim night talent, I want both. You did such a great job and looked like a million bucks. Congrats on your placement.
A special thank you to Clay Gore for selling raffle tickets and helping anyone and everyone who needed it. You make a great First Gentleman.
We raised $507 for Stand for the Silent which puts our current total at $737! Thank you to everyone who donated and bought tickets.
Overall, Miss Gay Missouri America was a phenomenal experience. I cannot wait for the rest of this year!
Our Next Preliminaries are:
Miss Gay Oklahoma America on May 18th
Miss Gay Southern America on May 26th
This is the first open regional of the season.
Lastly, I want to send a shout out to Tatiyanna and Dex for being there with me this week and offering advice and guidance. Hell, they even helped dress me. It truly is a Sisterhood and I am so blessed to be included.
My next stop was to the University of Houston Victoria to host their on campus Lip Sync Battle. The event was put on by the Student Life Group on campus and ran by the Director of Student Life, Freddie Cantu.
It was fun to watch these kids, I say kids but I guess they are adults, lip sync and come out of their shells in front of their peers.
Then, I traveled 5 hours south to Brownsville, Texas and performed at Bar B with Nathan C. Paris. Nathan is the Show Director at Bar B and a wonderful host. Nathan is also a former Mr. Gay Texas America. If you are ever in Brownsville, check it out.
I finally had the opportunity to work at the Pegasus in San Antonio. I have lived and performed in Texas my whole career but was never fortunate enough to be booked at the Pegasus until now. The Pegasus is home to some of the best talents in San Antonio. Talents like Layla LaRue, Desi M. Andrews, Theresa Matthews, Dakota Whitney and so many others. It is an outdoor stage but luckily it was Spring and we didn't sweat to death. Special thanks to Mike Rodriguez for the booking. I look forward to returning soon.
I’m sure the contestants and I shared the nerves and excitement for the first preliminary of the season at Miss Gay Missouri America at the beautiful Sun Theater in St. Louis.
This competition was really a hard fought battle. The entire top 8 were outstanding! The Miss Gay Missouri America Board; Tabbi Katt, Trixie LaRue, Jade Sinclair, Lexus Chaney (Emilio Olvera), & Sparkle Iman, ran that pageant like clock work. I applaud all 5 of you, along with Akasha Royale, for creating a spectacular show while effortlessly attending to everyone’s needs. They really have it figured out.
I truly enjoyed getting to spend some time with some Missouri Forevers and I was lucky enough to share a dressing room with Melinda Ryder on final night. I also had the pleasure of meeting Miss Gay America 1989, Vicki Vincent. She was the first Miss Gay Missouri America to capture the title of Miss Gay America.
Adria Andrews, Tatiyanna Voche', Tajma Stetson, Vicki Valentino, & Atheena Voce, you were a wonderful judges panel. You gave great critiques, were kind and supportive in interview and kept the pageant moving swiftly. Thank you for your time and talents.
Reba Lamkey you have the fastest fingers I have ever seen (on a 10 Key). It was such a pleasure to work with you as the tabulator and to share all the laughter together. I wish I could take you to every prelim with me.
Dieta Pepsi & Tabbi Katt were comedy gold on the mic. I really enjoyed the banter you had together. I think I am still missing some pieces of some stories.
Congratulations are in order for the first two members of the Miss Gay America class of 2025:
Miss Gay Missouri America -Vivian Versace
1st Alternate- Veronika Versace.
I can’t wait to see what you both bring to Little Rock in January.
I want to recognize a few individuals who really wowed me the week of Miss Gay Missouri America.
Penelope Booze- your interview was everything! You exuded so much personality and joy but in a controlled professional way. I really enjoyed hearing your story. Also, the talent you posses is simply wonderful. This may have been your first attempt in the Miss Gay America system but I can definitely see you being Miss Gay America if you keep at it.
Diva Coppafeel- That talent was out of this world!!!!!! I enjoyed the first part of your talent but when the second curtain opened and you had built a whole drum line contraption, my mind was blown. You were fascinating to watch and I applaud your talents.
Anna May West- Your black and white gown on prelim night and that costume for your prelim night talent, I want both. You did such a great job and looked like a million bucks. Congrats on your placement.
A special thank you to Clay Gore for selling raffle tickets and helping anyone and everyone who needed it. You make a great First Gentleman.
We raised $507 for Stand for the Silent which puts our current total at $737! Thank you to everyone who donated and bought tickets.
Overall, Miss Gay Missouri America was a phenomenal experience. I cannot wait for the rest of this year!
Our Next Preliminaries are:
Miss Gay Oklahoma America on May 18th
Miss Gay Southern America on May 26th
This is the first open regional of the season.
Lastly, I want to send a shout out to Tatiyanna and Dex for being there with me this week and offering advice and guidance. Hell, they even helped dress me. It truly is a Sisterhood and I am so blessed to be included.
Love Notes
Volume 2
Well, I have officially been Miss Gay America for a month.
February was a month of getting prelim dates together and getting ready to start traveling.
Speaking of traveling; I have to send a HUGE thank you to Barbra Seville. One day I came home and had a large package on my front porch. I thought maybe Clay had bought me something amazing but he didn’t. It turned out to be a 3 piece luggage set sent to me by Barbra. Not only did I appreciate the luggage but it was in my favorite color, orange! The set has already made its first trip and was easy to spot at the baggage claim.
Speaking of Barbra, we are teaming up to raise awareness for registering to vote and to get out and vote. This is an election year and it is important that our voices be heard. If you haven’t already registered to vote, please do. More information to come on this soon.
February also started off with a fabulous photo from Miss Congeniality 2024, Morgan Morgan Morgan. I had never seen a Miss Congeniality have a photo release but I absolutely loved it. She looked phenomenal!
Morgan Morgan Morgan and I will be appearing at Drag Con L.A. in July. I am so thrilled about this experience and being able to do it with someone I enjoy so much. If you are in L.A. during Drag Con, stop by and see us.
I did get to travel a little bit this month. I went to San Antonio, TX and was part of the Illusions Show hosted by Kristi Waters at Let’s Be Honest. We were joined on the show by Kimora Blac from RPDR. I had a large time with both of these ladies and the venue is very cute. If you are in San Antonio, go check it out on a Thursday night.
Later in the month I worked on the beautiful island of Cozumel. Pose Bar has weekend shows and is the only gay bar on the island. I worked with the sweet, funny and statuesque Brenda the Drag Queen from North Carolina. It was nice to be able to co-host together and enjoy a few laughs backstage. And yes, she really is 7ft tall.
In my role as Miss Gay America, I spend my time thinking about the details of the BIG picture. This month I’ve given a lot of thought to promoters, the people who open their hearts and bank accounts to allow so many of us to display our talents and inspire others to be excellent.
Promoters are the back bone of all pageant systems. I will be starting a monthly Promoter Spotlight to highlight our Miss Gay America promoters. I found when I would compete at Miss Gay America, I would see different State and Regional Promoters at the pageant but I would have a hard time placing them with the right prelim and/or name. Hopefully this Promoter Spotlight will introduce these lovely individuals to you and make them more recognizable to all.
February was a month of getting prelim dates together and getting ready to start traveling.
Speaking of traveling; I have to send a HUGE thank you to Barbra Seville. One day I came home and had a large package on my front porch. I thought maybe Clay had bought me something amazing but he didn’t. It turned out to be a 3 piece luggage set sent to me by Barbra. Not only did I appreciate the luggage but it was in my favorite color, orange! The set has already made its first trip and was easy to spot at the baggage claim.
Speaking of Barbra, we are teaming up to raise awareness for registering to vote and to get out and vote. This is an election year and it is important that our voices be heard. If you haven’t already registered to vote, please do. More information to come on this soon.
February also started off with a fabulous photo from Miss Congeniality 2024, Morgan Morgan Morgan. I had never seen a Miss Congeniality have a photo release but I absolutely loved it. She looked phenomenal!
Morgan Morgan Morgan and I will be appearing at Drag Con L.A. in July. I am so thrilled about this experience and being able to do it with someone I enjoy so much. If you are in L.A. during Drag Con, stop by and see us.
I did get to travel a little bit this month. I went to San Antonio, TX and was part of the Illusions Show hosted by Kristi Waters at Let’s Be Honest. We were joined on the show by Kimora Blac from RPDR. I had a large time with both of these ladies and the venue is very cute. If you are in San Antonio, go check it out on a Thursday night.
Later in the month I worked on the beautiful island of Cozumel. Pose Bar has weekend shows and is the only gay bar on the island. I worked with the sweet, funny and statuesque Brenda the Drag Queen from North Carolina. It was nice to be able to co-host together and enjoy a few laughs backstage. And yes, she really is 7ft tall.
In my role as Miss Gay America, I spend my time thinking about the details of the BIG picture. This month I’ve given a lot of thought to promoters, the people who open their hearts and bank accounts to allow so many of us to display our talents and inspire others to be excellent.
Promoters are the back bone of all pageant systems. I will be starting a monthly Promoter Spotlight to highlight our Miss Gay America promoters. I found when I would compete at Miss Gay America, I would see different State and Regional Promoters at the pageant but I would have a hard time placing them with the right prelim and/or name. Hopefully this Promoter Spotlight will introduce these lovely individuals to you and make them more recognizable to all.
March Promoter Spotlight shines on John Hutchinson and Kerry John (Corynne Deville), the Promoters for Miss Gay California America.
Corynne Deville is a native of New Orleans, LA. By day he works as an accountant as well as managing his production company and pageant competitions. Corynne was introduced to the art of female impersonation in October of 2010 when Oz New Orleans hosted their turn-about show where the bartenders dressed in drag and performed. It was in this moment where he found the joy and love for the art and continued to launch his Divas of Engender show allowing new coming talent a stage to entertain and get their start and training wheels. Throughout this journey, Corynne competed in a small competition in Gulfport, Mississippi called Queen of the Beach where he captured the title that evening. This now sparked the moment of pageantry that we all know as the “pageant bug”. Over the next years he competed in Miss Gay Louisiana USofA pageants across Louisiana forming a deeper love for the art. In 2016, Corynne relocated to the Los Angeles area. In this journey, the decision was made to bring pageantry back into the California region which had been absent for some time. As he embarks on the upcoming year, he is adding some Louisiana pageants to the portfolio of Engender Productions to provide moments for the entertainers of the area, as they have given opportunities and coaching to him over the years, to perfect the art form. Corynne is currently the promoter for Miss Gay California America, Miss Gay Crescent City America, Western Elegance and Louisiana Continental Systems, and also the owner of the Four Seasons Patio & Stage Bar in Metairie LA.
John Rufo is a Celebrated fashion designer from the Philippines. He has worked with many clients for custom design needs including contestants for pageant systems of Miss Universe, Ms. World Philippines, and Mutya ng Pilipinas. He was noted by Philstar in 2014 as one of the 28 designers to keep a keen eye on. Some of his clients include Miss Universe 2015, Pia Wurtzbach; Miss World 2013, Megan Young; and Miss International 2016, Kylie Versoza.
Additionally, which partnering with KANDAMA clothing, his designs were featured during the Corgis in Capes 2017 promo leading up to the renown Netflix series “The Crown”. All proceeds for this collaboration for Rufo’s designs benefitted a weaving center for underprivileged indigenous women of a tiny village in Ifugao. Adding to his line of products, Rufo designs recently launched a limited edition, numbered jewelry line and is currently working to expand into the handbag market.
John and his husband share the joy and pleasure of promoting Miss Gay California America, Miss Gay Crescent City America, Western Elegance and Louisiana Continental systems as well as operating their bar in Metairie, LA, the Four Seasons Patio & Stage Bar.
Corynne Deville is a native of New Orleans, LA. By day he works as an accountant as well as managing his production company and pageant competitions. Corynne was introduced to the art of female impersonation in October of 2010 when Oz New Orleans hosted their turn-about show where the bartenders dressed in drag and performed. It was in this moment where he found the joy and love for the art and continued to launch his Divas of Engender show allowing new coming talent a stage to entertain and get their start and training wheels. Throughout this journey, Corynne competed in a small competition in Gulfport, Mississippi called Queen of the Beach where he captured the title that evening. This now sparked the moment of pageantry that we all know as the “pageant bug”. Over the next years he competed in Miss Gay Louisiana USofA pageants across Louisiana forming a deeper love for the art. In 2016, Corynne relocated to the Los Angeles area. In this journey, the decision was made to bring pageantry back into the California region which had been absent for some time. As he embarks on the upcoming year, he is adding some Louisiana pageants to the portfolio of Engender Productions to provide moments for the entertainers of the area, as they have given opportunities and coaching to him over the years, to perfect the art form. Corynne is currently the promoter for Miss Gay California America, Miss Gay Crescent City America, Western Elegance and Louisiana Continental Systems, and also the owner of the Four Seasons Patio & Stage Bar in Metairie LA.
John Rufo is a Celebrated fashion designer from the Philippines. He has worked with many clients for custom design needs including contestants for pageant systems of Miss Universe, Ms. World Philippines, and Mutya ng Pilipinas. He was noted by Philstar in 2014 as one of the 28 designers to keep a keen eye on. Some of his clients include Miss Universe 2015, Pia Wurtzbach; Miss World 2013, Megan Young; and Miss International 2016, Kylie Versoza.
Additionally, which partnering with KANDAMA clothing, his designs were featured during the Corgis in Capes 2017 promo leading up to the renown Netflix series “The Crown”. All proceeds for this collaboration for Rufo’s designs benefitted a weaving center for underprivileged indigenous women of a tiny village in Ifugao. Adding to his line of products, Rufo designs recently launched a limited edition, numbered jewelry line and is currently working to expand into the handbag market.
John and his husband share the joy and pleasure of promoting Miss Gay California America, Miss Gay Crescent City America, Western Elegance and Louisiana Continental systems as well as operating their bar in Metairie, LA, the Four Seasons Patio & Stage Bar.
Looking forward to March I will begin raising money for “Stand For The Silent”. This organization strives to reach kids who are bullied, kids who are bullies, to teach kids to stand up for themselves and help save lives.
The first year I competed for Miss Gay America in 2014, it was Jessica Jade’s step down and she brought in the Dad who started Stand For The Silent. He lost his son to suicide because of bullying. The speech he gave was so impactful and really moved me. It was at that point that I knew when I became Miss Gay America that this would be an organization I would raise money to support.
I was bullied so much in school for being gay. I didn’t even know what gay was or if that was me or not, but the kids in school had already decided for me. I grew up in a small town in Texas in the 1990’s where it was definitely not popular to be gay. I was bullied so much in high school that I calculated how many days I could skip without my parents being ticketed or thrown in jail. I missed that exact number of days. I often ate my lunch in a bathroom or in a teacher’s empty classroom. Bullying is something we have all experienced and this is why I want to raise as much money as possible for Stand For The Silent. I will be selling 50/50 tickets at prelims throughout the year and will set up a GoFund Me on social media if you feel inclined to donate. In January of 2025, at Miss Gay America, I hope to present them a check for $10,000 or more. Please go to their website and check out the wonderful work they do.
www.standforthesilent.org
Miss Gay America preliminaries will kick off in March with the 50th Anniversary of Miss Gay Missouri America. The dates are March 21st-23rd at the Sun Theater in St. Louis. Get your tickets and come celebrate Akasha Royale for her incredible work as Miss Gay Missouri America 2023.
I want to close by sending my appreciation for a few individuals.
Thank you to Esther Style’s for the free makeup during my reign. I have already placed my first order and am in love with the products I received, especially this foundation and setting spray. Check out the website at www.esthersstyles.com
Next is Justin Tyler and his crew at Handmade by Fendi Lafemme company for offering a costume or gown for each prelim. I know your time is valuable so I greatly appreciate you for setting that time aside for me.
Lastly, thank you to Dan James. Dan creates the media for Miss Gay America including everything from T-shirts to the annual marketing logo and is the one behind my whole news letter concept. It has been great collaborating with you and I can’t wait to show everyone what you have in store this year. Wishing you all the very best for March and beyond.
Miss Gay America 2024, Dessie Love Blake
The first year I competed for Miss Gay America in 2014, it was Jessica Jade’s step down and she brought in the Dad who started Stand For The Silent. He lost his son to suicide because of bullying. The speech he gave was so impactful and really moved me. It was at that point that I knew when I became Miss Gay America that this would be an organization I would raise money to support.
I was bullied so much in school for being gay. I didn’t even know what gay was or if that was me or not, but the kids in school had already decided for me. I grew up in a small town in Texas in the 1990’s where it was definitely not popular to be gay. I was bullied so much in high school that I calculated how many days I could skip without my parents being ticketed or thrown in jail. I missed that exact number of days. I often ate my lunch in a bathroom or in a teacher’s empty classroom. Bullying is something we have all experienced and this is why I want to raise as much money as possible for Stand For The Silent. I will be selling 50/50 tickets at prelims throughout the year and will set up a GoFund Me on social media if you feel inclined to donate. In January of 2025, at Miss Gay America, I hope to present them a check for $10,000 or more. Please go to their website and check out the wonderful work they do.
www.standforthesilent.org
Miss Gay America preliminaries will kick off in March with the 50th Anniversary of Miss Gay Missouri America. The dates are March 21st-23rd at the Sun Theater in St. Louis. Get your tickets and come celebrate Akasha Royale for her incredible work as Miss Gay Missouri America 2023.
I want to close by sending my appreciation for a few individuals.
Thank you to Esther Style’s for the free makeup during my reign. I have already placed my first order and am in love with the products I received, especially this foundation and setting spray. Check out the website at www.esthersstyles.com
Next is Justin Tyler and his crew at Handmade by Fendi Lafemme company for offering a costume or gown for each prelim. I know your time is valuable so I greatly appreciate you for setting that time aside for me.
Lastly, thank you to Dan James. Dan creates the media for Miss Gay America including everything from T-shirts to the annual marketing logo and is the one behind my whole news letter concept. It has been great collaborating with you and I can’t wait to show everyone what you have in store this year. Wishing you all the very best for March and beyond.
Miss Gay America 2024, Dessie Love Blake
Love Notes
Volume 1
I am honored to hold the title of Miss Gay America and share my journey through this newsletter, which I have named "Love Notes.”
Through Love Notes, I aim to provide insights into my experiences as Miss Gay America 2024.
Allow me to begin by recounting the path that led me to this point. I was born and raised in a small town near Houston, Texas. From a
young age, I displayed a passion for singing and performing, showcasing my talents at rodeos, talent shows, and even my grandfather's barn during Easter celebrations. Given my Texan
roots, it's no surprise.
During my high school years, I immersed myself in theater and choir, dedicating myself wholeheartedly to these pursuits.
Following graduation, I was fortunate to receive a full scholarship for music. As time went on, I wrote a stage play that was produced and ran in Minneapolis, marking a significant milestone in my artistic journey.
Years later, while participating in a gay bowling league, I was invited to perform in a charity show called "Bowler Beehive". The purpose of the event was to raise funds for a local LGBTQ+ organization, and it was during this time that I attended my first drag show. The experience captivated me, and it wasn't long before I found myself competing in my inaugural Miss Gay America City Prelim, specifically Miss Gay Gulf Coast America in 2013. During that competition, I encountered an obstacle in the talent portion. While performing "I Am What I Am" I violated the rules by removing my tights and pads during my transition from female to
male. Despite this setback, luckily there was only one other contestant so I still got my ticket to Miss Gay Texas America.
At Miss Gay Texas America, I achieved 6th place overall and earned the distinction of Best Interview and Q&A. However, it was observing the reigning Miss Gay America, Sally Sparkles, that ignited a profound desire within me to become Miss Gay America myself. Witnessing her exemplary kindness and heartfelt dedication to her role left a deep impression.
In 2014, determined to emerge victorious, I once again competed in Miss Gay Texas America and won! This victory granted me the opportunity to compete at Miss Gay America, where Jessica Jade held the title of Miss Gay America. With only two years of experience in drag, I had modest expectations. Surpassing my own expectations, I advanced to the Top 10 and
claimed the Solo Talent award with my Joan Jett illusion. However, what truly resonated with me during that event was Jessica's introduction of a father from The Trevor Project. With unwavering passion and sincerity, he spoke about his son and the charity,
profoundly touching my heart. In that moment, I knew that if I were to win Miss Gay America, The Trevor Project would become my platform.
My Top 10 placement at Miss Gay America solidified my dedication to this realm of competition. In 2015, I participated in Miss Gay Gulf States America and attained the position of 1st Alt with David Green as my Promoter. This secured my return to Miss Gay America, where I once again reached the Top 10.
Taking a brief hiatus, I decided to get married during the interim. As
we all know, pageants can be as costly as weddings. In 2017, I competed in Reading, PA, and emerged victorious as Miss Gay Northeast America, under the guidance of my Promoter,
Eric Brown. This time, I achieved a Top 5 placement and secured the position of 3rd Alt, with Deva Station ultimately claiming the crown. My determination to become Miss Gay America grew stronger with each passing year.
In 2018, armed with a pageant package and a trip to New York, I participated in Miss Gay New York America, where I placed 1st Alt. Thomas John was my promoter and we had big dreams. At Miss Gay America, I secured the 1st Alt position, with Andora Tetee winning Miss Gay America. At this juncture, the relentless pursuit of victory had taken its toll on me, leaving me miserable. My overwhelming obsession with winning and becoming Miss Gay America had begun to affect both my personal and professional life. Despite giving my all, I felt that it was never good enough. To regain a healthier perspective on competition and rediscover the joy of the journey, I decided to take a few years off. This period allowed me to reflect on my approach and find ways to have fun without the overwhelming pressure to succeed.
In 2022, I returned to the Miss Gay America system, winning Miss Gay Southwest America, promoted by Todd Slaughter. Once again, I claimed the position of 1st Alt at Miss Gay America and Tatiyanna Voche was the winner. That year was truly remarkable, as I experienced a newfound sense of ease and forged connections with fellow contestants like never before. It became clear to me that I was fully prepared to fulfill the responsibilities of Miss Gay America
and reign with grace.
In the autumn of 2023, I made the necessary arrangements and informed Robbie Rickard of my intent to participate in Miss Gay Midwest America. Winning the pageant was only the beginning, as the critiques received highlighted the need for a restructuring of my interview approach to succeed in the next stage. My unwavering focus on professionalism and demonstrating my ability to perform the duties of Miss Gay America had hindered the expression of my true personality. The feedback struck a chord within me, igniting a
determination to find a way to convey to the judges that I was the embodiment of the leadership they sought for the following year. Countless hours were spent working alongside Dextaci, Deva, Dominique, and David, honing my delivery and discerning what truly mattered. Their guidance allowed me to present my story in a compelling manner. As a result, I triumphed, securing the titles of Overall Interview and Miss Gay America 2024.
The 2024 Miss Gay America pageant was an exceptional event. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Brian and his team for their remarkable efficiency in managing the backstage operations. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge a few contestants
who truly stood out and achieved remarkable accomplishments this year.
Courtney Kelly, congratulations on making it to the Top 10 and winning the interview in your group. Your outstanding performance earned you the second-place overall interview score. Well done! This is just the beginning of your success.
Chloe Knox, congratulations on winning the overall gown award for the entire pageant! Your gown was stunning, and your modeling skills were reminiscent of a high-fashion runway. Simply beautiful.
Paris Brooks Bonet, your talent performance was captivating, and you emerged as the overall winner in this category, surpassing even the highest score among the Top 10 contestants. I am eagerly looking forward to seeing you shine even brighter next year.
Lamia & Miss Guise, your journey from Alaska to Little Rock was undoubtedly challenging due to the weather conditions. Nonetheless, I was thrilled to witness the exceptional performances
you both delivered. Your perseverance and outstanding talents truly impressed everyone.
Gabriella Stratton Galore, your freshness and fierceness were truly captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed watching your performance, and it is evident that Miss Gay America is well within your reach.
Princess Prozac, your solo talent performance on the final night received the loudest ovation and the highest talent score. Your pure talent is undeniable, and I strongly recommend you for future opportunities.
Savannah Stevens, I was delighted to see you receive the gown award. Keep pushing forward, sister, as you have the potential to achieve great things.
Heavens2Betsy, congratulations on your prelim awards and your top 5 finish in your first year at MGA! This is truly remarkable.
Charai Davenport, you were asked to compete just a few weeks before MGA, and yet you managed to secure a Top 10 placement in your very first attempt. Congratulations! Your kindness and sweet personality are truly endearing, and I couldn't be happier for you.
Aria Cassadine, your angelic voice is simply enchanting. I am thrilled that you secured the first alternate position, and I have no doubt that you will conquer the top spot in the future.
Ada Vox, I am grateful that you graced us with your exceptional talent at MGA. Your voice is truly out of this world, and I eagerly await your return to the stage. Congratulations on your Top 10 placement.
Emory Star, it was an absolute joy to prepare alongside you on the final night. Your Katy Perry talent act was incredibly cute and entertaining. Congratulations on your Top 5 placement.
In concluding my first ever "Love Notes", I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to a few individuals who have been instrumental in my journey.
Clay Gore and Chad Gore, both of you have been by my side since the beginning, dedicating countless hours to create masterful presentations that I can never fully repay. Thanks to your expertise, we won the Presentation category three out of the four times it was judged.
Todd Slaughter and Caleb Hardcastle, when I doubted my ability to assemble my Miss Gay America package, you encouraged me to follow my dreams and assured me of your unwavering support. I willforever be grateful to both of you and hold you dear to my heart.
Alberto Arias and the AJA Talent dancers, Alberto, your artistic vision is truly exceptional. You have crafted masterpieces that have elevated my performance beyond measure. To the entire dance team, your professionalism and kindness have left a lasting impression on me. Thank you.
To my Mom, Dad, Sister, and the rest of my family and friends who have been there year after year, we have finally achieved this milestone together. I love and appreciate your unwavering support more than words can express.
Tatiyanna, congratulations on an extraordinary reign. You embodied excellence in every sense of the word. However, I kindly ask that you refrain from injuring my finger again this year. Just a playful request, of course.
Looking ahead, I am confident that 2024 will be an incredible year for the Miss Gay America organization. My goal remains to have 50+ contestants competing for MGA 2025. I am thrilled about the addition of the MGA Femme division. The overwhelming support I have received touches me deeply. I understand the profound meaning the legacy of Miss Gay America holds for so many of you, and I am committed to preserving that flame and making it burn
even brighter.
Miss Gay America 2024,
Dessie Love Blake
Through Love Notes, I aim to provide insights into my experiences as Miss Gay America 2024.
Allow me to begin by recounting the path that led me to this point. I was born and raised in a small town near Houston, Texas. From a
young age, I displayed a passion for singing and performing, showcasing my talents at rodeos, talent shows, and even my grandfather's barn during Easter celebrations. Given my Texan
roots, it's no surprise.
During my high school years, I immersed myself in theater and choir, dedicating myself wholeheartedly to these pursuits.
Following graduation, I was fortunate to receive a full scholarship for music. As time went on, I wrote a stage play that was produced and ran in Minneapolis, marking a significant milestone in my artistic journey.
Years later, while participating in a gay bowling league, I was invited to perform in a charity show called "Bowler Beehive". The purpose of the event was to raise funds for a local LGBTQ+ organization, and it was during this time that I attended my first drag show. The experience captivated me, and it wasn't long before I found myself competing in my inaugural Miss Gay America City Prelim, specifically Miss Gay Gulf Coast America in 2013. During that competition, I encountered an obstacle in the talent portion. While performing "I Am What I Am" I violated the rules by removing my tights and pads during my transition from female to
male. Despite this setback, luckily there was only one other contestant so I still got my ticket to Miss Gay Texas America.
At Miss Gay Texas America, I achieved 6th place overall and earned the distinction of Best Interview and Q&A. However, it was observing the reigning Miss Gay America, Sally Sparkles, that ignited a profound desire within me to become Miss Gay America myself. Witnessing her exemplary kindness and heartfelt dedication to her role left a deep impression.
In 2014, determined to emerge victorious, I once again competed in Miss Gay Texas America and won! This victory granted me the opportunity to compete at Miss Gay America, where Jessica Jade held the title of Miss Gay America. With only two years of experience in drag, I had modest expectations. Surpassing my own expectations, I advanced to the Top 10 and
claimed the Solo Talent award with my Joan Jett illusion. However, what truly resonated with me during that event was Jessica's introduction of a father from The Trevor Project. With unwavering passion and sincerity, he spoke about his son and the charity,
profoundly touching my heart. In that moment, I knew that if I were to win Miss Gay America, The Trevor Project would become my platform.
My Top 10 placement at Miss Gay America solidified my dedication to this realm of competition. In 2015, I participated in Miss Gay Gulf States America and attained the position of 1st Alt with David Green as my Promoter. This secured my return to Miss Gay America, where I once again reached the Top 10.
Taking a brief hiatus, I decided to get married during the interim. As
we all know, pageants can be as costly as weddings. In 2017, I competed in Reading, PA, and emerged victorious as Miss Gay Northeast America, under the guidance of my Promoter,
Eric Brown. This time, I achieved a Top 5 placement and secured the position of 3rd Alt, with Deva Station ultimately claiming the crown. My determination to become Miss Gay America grew stronger with each passing year.
In 2018, armed with a pageant package and a trip to New York, I participated in Miss Gay New York America, where I placed 1st Alt. Thomas John was my promoter and we had big dreams. At Miss Gay America, I secured the 1st Alt position, with Andora Tetee winning Miss Gay America. At this juncture, the relentless pursuit of victory had taken its toll on me, leaving me miserable. My overwhelming obsession with winning and becoming Miss Gay America had begun to affect both my personal and professional life. Despite giving my all, I felt that it was never good enough. To regain a healthier perspective on competition and rediscover the joy of the journey, I decided to take a few years off. This period allowed me to reflect on my approach and find ways to have fun without the overwhelming pressure to succeed.
In 2022, I returned to the Miss Gay America system, winning Miss Gay Southwest America, promoted by Todd Slaughter. Once again, I claimed the position of 1st Alt at Miss Gay America and Tatiyanna Voche was the winner. That year was truly remarkable, as I experienced a newfound sense of ease and forged connections with fellow contestants like never before. It became clear to me that I was fully prepared to fulfill the responsibilities of Miss Gay America
and reign with grace.
In the autumn of 2023, I made the necessary arrangements and informed Robbie Rickard of my intent to participate in Miss Gay Midwest America. Winning the pageant was only the beginning, as the critiques received highlighted the need for a restructuring of my interview approach to succeed in the next stage. My unwavering focus on professionalism and demonstrating my ability to perform the duties of Miss Gay America had hindered the expression of my true personality. The feedback struck a chord within me, igniting a
determination to find a way to convey to the judges that I was the embodiment of the leadership they sought for the following year. Countless hours were spent working alongside Dextaci, Deva, Dominique, and David, honing my delivery and discerning what truly mattered. Their guidance allowed me to present my story in a compelling manner. As a result, I triumphed, securing the titles of Overall Interview and Miss Gay America 2024.
The 2024 Miss Gay America pageant was an exceptional event. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Brian and his team for their remarkable efficiency in managing the backstage operations. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge a few contestants
who truly stood out and achieved remarkable accomplishments this year.
Courtney Kelly, congratulations on making it to the Top 10 and winning the interview in your group. Your outstanding performance earned you the second-place overall interview score. Well done! This is just the beginning of your success.
Chloe Knox, congratulations on winning the overall gown award for the entire pageant! Your gown was stunning, and your modeling skills were reminiscent of a high-fashion runway. Simply beautiful.
Paris Brooks Bonet, your talent performance was captivating, and you emerged as the overall winner in this category, surpassing even the highest score among the Top 10 contestants. I am eagerly looking forward to seeing you shine even brighter next year.
Lamia & Miss Guise, your journey from Alaska to Little Rock was undoubtedly challenging due to the weather conditions. Nonetheless, I was thrilled to witness the exceptional performances
you both delivered. Your perseverance and outstanding talents truly impressed everyone.
Gabriella Stratton Galore, your freshness and fierceness were truly captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed watching your performance, and it is evident that Miss Gay America is well within your reach.
Princess Prozac, your solo talent performance on the final night received the loudest ovation and the highest talent score. Your pure talent is undeniable, and I strongly recommend you for future opportunities.
Savannah Stevens, I was delighted to see you receive the gown award. Keep pushing forward, sister, as you have the potential to achieve great things.
Heavens2Betsy, congratulations on your prelim awards and your top 5 finish in your first year at MGA! This is truly remarkable.
Charai Davenport, you were asked to compete just a few weeks before MGA, and yet you managed to secure a Top 10 placement in your very first attempt. Congratulations! Your kindness and sweet personality are truly endearing, and I couldn't be happier for you.
Aria Cassadine, your angelic voice is simply enchanting. I am thrilled that you secured the first alternate position, and I have no doubt that you will conquer the top spot in the future.
Ada Vox, I am grateful that you graced us with your exceptional talent at MGA. Your voice is truly out of this world, and I eagerly await your return to the stage. Congratulations on your Top 10 placement.
Emory Star, it was an absolute joy to prepare alongside you on the final night. Your Katy Perry talent act was incredibly cute and entertaining. Congratulations on your Top 5 placement.
In concluding my first ever "Love Notes", I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to a few individuals who have been instrumental in my journey.
Clay Gore and Chad Gore, both of you have been by my side since the beginning, dedicating countless hours to create masterful presentations that I can never fully repay. Thanks to your expertise, we won the Presentation category three out of the four times it was judged.
Todd Slaughter and Caleb Hardcastle, when I doubted my ability to assemble my Miss Gay America package, you encouraged me to follow my dreams and assured me of your unwavering support. I willforever be grateful to both of you and hold you dear to my heart.
Alberto Arias and the AJA Talent dancers, Alberto, your artistic vision is truly exceptional. You have crafted masterpieces that have elevated my performance beyond measure. To the entire dance team, your professionalism and kindness have left a lasting impression on me. Thank you.
To my Mom, Dad, Sister, and the rest of my family and friends who have been there year after year, we have finally achieved this milestone together. I love and appreciate your unwavering support more than words can express.
Tatiyanna, congratulations on an extraordinary reign. You embodied excellence in every sense of the word. However, I kindly ask that you refrain from injuring my finger again this year. Just a playful request, of course.
Looking ahead, I am confident that 2024 will be an incredible year for the Miss Gay America organization. My goal remains to have 50+ contestants competing for MGA 2025. I am thrilled about the addition of the MGA Femme division. The overwhelming support I have received touches me deeply. I understand the profound meaning the legacy of Miss Gay America holds for so many of you, and I am committed to preserving that flame and making it burn
even brighter.
Miss Gay America 2024,
Dessie Love Blake
