SUMMER 2025

JULY: Hot. Hot. Hot. That’s the only way I can describe the month of July—and the work we’ve been putting in to prepare for the start of prelim season! Not only is July my birthday month, but it was also the last month of no prelims before my preliminary season kicked off leading into the national pageant in January. Knowing the next six months will be the busiest of my reign, I treated July as a chance to slow down, refocus, and recenter myself on my goals before we really turn up the heat.

As many of you know, one of the biggest goals of my reign is to remain visible. That means not only being booked across the state, but also staying approachable and available to entertainers who call Missouri home. This month, I leaned into that by starting a small Facebook Live series focused on helping potential contestants feel more comfortable with the America system and maybe even inspired to run for a city prelim title this year. I remember when I first started competing in the America system—not that long ago—I was terrified I wouldn’t have the money or the connections to “run with the big dogs,” so to speak. I remember the hesitations of navigating such rocky, unfamiliar territory, and how much I just wanted someone to say, let me help. Through these Facebook Lives, I was able to answer questions, share my own experiences, and connect entertainers with people who could help them on their journeys.

Funny enough, Miss Gay Springfield America was the very first pageant I ever ran for in the America system. This month, I was fortunate enough to return to Springfield and MIX Ultralounge for a little show. Springfield—and the owner of MIX, Jeremy Kirkland—have always been so good to me, and it was wonderful to spend some much-needed time with good friends, my parents, and my precious niece. I’ll be back in Springfield in late November for the 50th Anniversary Miss Gay Springfield America, promoted by Vince Edwards, Ruby Diamond, Autumn Holiday, and Daniel Stone. It promises to be a massive celebration, and I can’t wait to cheer on my good Judy, Miss Priscilla, as she steps down from her role as the 49th Miss Gay Springfield America.

The approach of prelim season is always bittersweet—I know the real work is about to begin, but it also means my reign is already almost halfway over. Time has flown, no doubt about it—not only in my drag life but also in my personal life. I was blessed to celebrate my 31st birthday at the end of the month with my love and dear friends in St. Louis, surrounded by the drag community in my new home. Receiving messages from entertainers, friends, family, and even complete strangers had me feeling so loved as I step into another trip around the sun.

And that’s really what it’s all about, isn’t it? Connection. Love. Joy. Celebration. That’s why we do this—it’s definitely why I do this. As I prepare for prelim season beginning next month, I encourage everyone to head into August remembering why you chose to do what you’re doing. Sometimes those reminders of our passions and goals are exactly the fire we need to keep moving forward—so let’s keep going.

AUGUST: Summer may be winding down, but prelim season is just heating up!

It’s been pedal to the metal, and I’m thrilled to say I have my very first prelim as the 51st Miss Gay Missouri America under my belt. All the preparation, planning, and behind-the-scenes work came together with all the pomp and circumstance I could have hoped for. August was also a big month outside of drag as I traveled to Fort Worth, Texas for a theatrical design contract with Stage West Theatre—but more on that in a moment.

First, let’s talk about Kansas City and the Miss Gay City of Fountains America preliminary, beautifully promoted by Chad Salmans. Not only was it special to be back in my hometown, but I also had the chance to meet new faces and reconnect with longtime friends. I’ll admit—I was nervous. Prelims are such an important part of a successful MGMA reign, and while I trusted my abilities, I wanted to rise to the expectations of everyone involved. But as I’ve said before, the MGMA family truly is a family. With support from my sisters Vivian Versace (MGMA 2024) and Tajma Stetson (MGMA 2022), dear friends like Reba Lamkey and Tyson Huff-Garza, and board members like Lexus Chaney (MGMA 2000), I felt encouraged every step of the way.

The night was a success. We crowned the very first city titleholder of the 2026 class, Nikolette Kilz, and welcomed her first alternate, Nadine Darling, both of whom impressed with their passion and drive. Watching them reminded me of the excitement that fuels this system, and I can’t wait to see what they bring to the MGMA stage in March.

While in Kansas City, I also had the joy of performing at Missie B’s for KC Sunshine’s Sunshine Saturdays. Sharing the stage with Mr. Gay America 2022 was a true highlight, and the hospitality from KC and my Kansas City sisters was unmatched. I’ll be back on October 19th for Miss Gay Kansas City America, where we’ll add another contestant to the 2026 class!

Outside of pageantry, I headed to Fort Worth for a lighting design contract with Stage West Theatre’s area premiere of Fat Ham. This sharp, funny play parallels Shakespeare’s Hamlet through the lens of Juicy, a queer Black protagonist, and I highly recommend seeing it if you get the chance. Returning to DFW, where I studied at TCU and began my design career, was both nostalgic and inspiring. Sharing those memories with my partner, Hallie, made the trip even more meaningful.

As August came to a close, I found myself reflecting with gratitude—for opportunities, friendships old and new, family, love, and the exciting months ahead. Being the 51st Miss Gay Missouri America has not only opened doors but also sparked a hunger for growth and challenge. With just under five months until the national stage, the climb has begun, and I couldn’t be more eager for the summit.

As always, with love and respect,

Penelope Booze
51st Miss Gay Missouri America