Miss Gay Missouri - Foxx Tales Monthly Newsletter

Miss Gay Missouri Pageant

Foxx Tales Newsletter

AUGUST 2009

SEPTEMBER 2009

OCTOBER 2009

NOVEMBER 2009

DECEMBER 2009

JANUARY 2010

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2010

APRIL / MAY 2010

JULY 2010

JUNE 2010

Foxx Tales

August 2009

Welcome to the first edition of my monthly newsletter “Foxx Tales”. I hope everyone has recovered from the Miss Gay Missouri 2009 contest and are looking towards another fantastic pageant season. Being chosen as your “symbol of excellence” for the next year has been one of the proudest moments in my life. I am truly thankful to all those who gave their time, energy and financial support to my quest for the crown. It was a thrilling 4 days and it was so nice to meet you all, some for the very first time. Kudos to each of you for really “bringing it”. Our contest is one of the most prestigious in the Miss Gay America Pageant system and each of you should be proud to have been selected to participate. Being a 3 day contest it proved to be a mini Miss Gay America with 25 contestants. Ours is so far the largest pageant in the system and has always proven to be one of the most popular.

For years, the winner and 1st alternate of Miss Gay Missouri were the “talk of the pageant” at the national contest, as they normally were some of the most prepared and professional contestants. Our history has shown that. Our state has produced some of the most glamorous and respected female impersonators and you are each destined to help foster and continue that history. I am so excited to see that our contestant base continues to rise each year with the aid of an increase in our preliminary system.

As I write we are waiting for the promoters to start their bids for the next season of preliminaries and I hope you are thinking now of which ones you’ll be competing for. Although announcements have not been made for all (except Miss Gay Springfield September 6 and Miss St. Louis Newcomer November 15) I would encourage each of you to start getting yourselves ready. It can be a challenge to put together a winning pageant package but starting early can prove beneficial as there are so many things to consider. Be sure you check out the websites www.mgmpageant.com and www.missgayamerica.com for information about each of the competition categories.

I would like to take a little time to give my views on what really makes a fine illusionist. Each of us has chosen this as a field of entertainment and we should treat it as a profession and be proud of the persona we have selected to present to our audiences. When you selected your name what were thinking about? Who is “Susie So-n-so” (not a bad name). Because you are the writer of your own show you have the capability of defining your stage persona and how “she” will be viewed. In my case, Erica is always a lady of grace and class. She is divorced and has had very wealthy husbands, (and no, she didn’t kill them off). But she did get some great alimony. She doesn’t sweat on stage and will never be seen without her signature 60 carat diamond ring. She has an expensive wardrobe and a shoe collection to rival Imelda Marcos. Some of the best advice I was ever given was by my old roommate Dominique Sanchez. She said, “Tippy ( the nickname she gave me) it doesn’t matter how much you spend, just look expensive.”

Remember that you are directing your own show each time you grace the stage and have complete control over the emotions that your audience will feel. By identifying the feelings in the song, you should be sure that your own choreography and facial emotions are mirroring the song. Because a song is telling a story, is it happy or sad? Are you showing these emotions? They say the “eyes are a portal to the soul” and you can use your eyes to help convey the meaning of the song. Don’t be afraid to raise your eyebrows even though they may be painted on. Nothing is more boring than to watch a performer who shows no emotion in their face and all they do is move their mouth. Remember the art of illusion requires acting. So listen closely to the words and go out there and act the song. No matter if you are dancing the house down, you should still sell the emotion of the song with your face.

One of my goals this year is pass on my knowledge and help the world of impersonation in Missouri to become the finest in the country. Our profession has seen its highs and lows and I want each of you to feel that you have the power to mold the future of impersonation. Take charge of careers. Be sure that each performance is your best. Take pride in learning the lyrics, choreographing yourself, and dressing the song. After performing for 25 years I am still learning. So never think you know everything. Because we all have untapped potential and that is very exciting to think about. Till next month keep the EXCELLENCE flowing!!!

Love and Peace Always

Erica Foxx

Miss Gay Missouri 2009

ericafoxxinc@yahoo.com

314-807-7707

Foxx Tales

September 2009

Hey there Miss Gay Missouri America (MGM) fans and supporters. Well the month of August was HOT and full of duties to wrap up the ’09 contest and to get started on the 2010 season. I started out the month by getting the first edition of my monthly newsletter “FOXX TALES” out to you all. I hope you found if enjoyable and informative. One of my first duties was to provide to you and the MGM system an official “crown picture”. My thanks go out to Kate and Pat of frances-glenn photography for not only providing me with a wonderful picture but also a fine environment to take my pictures. Please go to www.francesglenn.com to view my newest shoot. These two women are a treat to work with and I encourage ALL of you to get in touch with them for a photo session. They have now worked out several photo packages that are well within the budget for any entertainer and I’d love to see the city plastered with pictures of all of us. 
I was then off to Quincy, IL with Jade Sinclair for a show at Irene’s Cabaret. This is the oldest gay bar in existence. (Not sure of that statistic but pretty close) I worked at this club in 1988 when I went by another name and they still loved me. I thanked Irene and Lady Horetta for giving me the opportunity back then and for welcoming back with such a warm reception. 
	Mid–August came and Jade Sinclair invited the top-ten from MGM for a review show at the Grey Fox. We had a nice crowd and the entertainment was rounded out by Kate Spade, Adria Andrews, Dayonna Hilton, Nikki Stevens and Jade Sinclair and myself. My thanks go out to Jade for providing this time to perform and reminisce about MGM ’09. 
As the month progressed I continued my own preparations for Miss Gay America. (Will they ever stop?) I also met with the MGM promoter, Joie DiMercurio, and was officially handed over “THE MGM BIBLE”. We discussed many things over cucumber sandwiches and tea. (Yeah right! More like cashew chicken and Coke!) I was informed that the duties for MGM are not only to entertain at the preliminaries but to officiate over the pageant. The reigning MGM must provide a detailed orientation to the contestants and the judges. He must officiate over the categories, witness the scoring and then officiate over the judges critiques. 
All of this discussion came in very handy as I headed down Highway 44 on my way to my first preliminary, Miss Gay Springfield America. From a field of 6 fantastic contestants there could only be one winner. And that was Victoria Von Dutch! Her 1st alternate was Alexis Bailey. CONGRATS gentlemen!! We’ll be seeing you in July at MGM 2010. A BIG THANK YOU to Robyn Hunter for heading up such a smooth contest. (And for the lovely peridot jewelry) It was also great to see the sisterhood of the Miss Gay Springfield pageant come out in full support. They certainly take pride in the heritage that female impersonation has played in the gay community in Springfield and it was a pleasure to perform with them. 
Well it’s time to wrap things up. Please keep in mind that Miss Gay America is October 28- November 1 at the Millennium Hotel in St. Louis. I’ll be competing amongst some 60 other female impersonators from around the country. Our next contest is Miss City of Columbia on November 7, 2009. Once again keep checking www.mgmpageant.com for updates on the preliminary season.

LOVE AND PEACE ALWAYS
Erica Foxx MGM ‘09

Foxx Tales

October 2009

Wow! How time flies. The month of September came by so quickly. Of course the beginning of the month saw me down in Springfield for the Miss Gay Springfield contest. Once again, congrats to Victoria Von Dutch and Alexis Bailey. I had such a marvelous time down there. I want to really thank Robyn Hunter for putting on such a great contest. It flowed smoothly and without a hitch.

It was at my first prelim that I found out the magnitude of the job of Miss Gay Missouri. This was a 3 day event and I was challenged with getting ready in between numbers and officiating. On Saturday night, 4 performers did not show and that shortened my preparation time to officiate Solo Talent. I was not able to get my crown on nor did I have my official badge on for this category. I was devastated. But this is a learning experience and I was not going to let it happen again. The sisterhood of formers are a wealth of advice. Sasha Nicole told me to be prepared with a cocktail dress that I can get on quickly. She also told me to have the official badge already pinned on the dress. So if you don’t have time to get your crown on you can at least have the official badge on. Tumara Mahorning also told me to pre-pin my crown in my wig so all I need to do is put on the wig. This is a trick that Victoria De Paula, our very own Miss Gay America, has found helpful in her year. Another word of advice to the next Miss Gay Missouri; Stretch Dresses!! I found myself in the dressing room without a soul to zip me up. So be prepared to slip into a fabulous stretch velvet or slinky Lycra gown.

As the month progressed, I found myself gracing the stage of the Grey Fox several times. I always love to perform at this club. My dear friends, Tumara Mahorning, Sasha Nicole, and Michelle McCausland are always a treat to work with.

A BIG CONGRATS goes out to Deja Brooks who recently won Miss Gay Tri-States. Her First Alternate was Kate Spade. Also to Nikki Stevens. She won Miss Gay Central States. Her First Alternate was Victoria von Dutch. On a side note, let us all remember Victoria von Dutch in our prayers as she mourns the loss of her dear father. She has opted not to compete at Miss Gay America and Adria Andrews has graciously accepted the appointment of 1st Alternate. Let’s not forget that Mariah Candy went on to win Miss Gay Illinois and Sparkle Iman (MGM 2008) who won Miss Gay Kansas. The state of Missouri is going to be well – represented at the Nationals this year.

I would like to conclude on a more serious note. As most of you know, I have struggled with alcoholism for years. I was able to put a number of years of sobriety together, but this disease holds no regard for the number of years you can stay sober. It is always lurking in the background waiting for the right time to rear its ugly head and say,
“Go on. One drink won’t hurt.” Well I did slip and I’m not going to beat around the bush. This is a very serious matter and I have to stay focused on my sobriety. Alcoholism is not to be taken lightly and I have found that if I let other things in my life take precedence, I will slip again. I only mention this as the rumor mill can be vicious and scathing and I feel it my duty to come out straight with you and tell you of my struggles.

When you win a title of the magnitude of Miss Gay Missouri, you are being held to the highest regard for your actions, both in and out of face. I worked a long time to win this title and I am not about to let this disease tackle me, again. When you’re an alcoholic you must realize the severity of the disease and do everything in your power to overcome it. I did one time. And I will do it again. As I write this, I think of all those suffering men and women in the gay community who think that the answer to life is in the form of a bottle. So if you’re reading this and you think you have a problem with drugs or alcohol please go to the phone book. The answer can be found in the “A’s”.

So, I need to get back to sewing, gluing and biting my fingernails. Remember that Miss Gay America is here in St Louis , at the Millennium Hotel, October 28-November 1. I wish all of the contestants the best of luck and may the best man win!!

Foxx Tales

November 2009

HERE SHE IS. MISS GAY AMERICA!! As a child I always loved watching the Miss America pageant. The glamour! The talent! The Isolation booth! Carol O’Connell saying, “And now a word from Camay.” This dedication to the beauty and brains of women for the past 80 some odd years has deeply affected my life as a female impersonator as well. I come to you now with two of my most cherished memories. Watching the Miss America pageant with my mother and sister and now competing in Miss Gay America.

My week at Miss Gay America was an eye-opening and eye-popping experience. It was filled with great times of meeting and chatting with various entertainers from around the country. I can’t begin to tell you of the hilarious conversations I had in the elevator. Nor the countless laughs. What I can tell you is that it was full of challenges and learning experiences.

Musica Malone and I moved in to our tiny hotel room on Wednesday morning. (And may I say what a great help he was for the week). Thank heavens I didn’t pack like I did for Miss Gay Missouri. There would never have been enough room for the 10 large tubs I took to Springfield . But we managed to make it work by shifting things from tub to tub and repacking for my category nights.

The week started at registration. All of the contestants gathered in the ballroom and started mingling. Of course, being the new girl, so to speak, I did not know a majority of them. But I tried to meet everyone and let them know who I was and that if they needed anything to just let me know. We also selected our contestant number. I had made up my mind that I wanted to do Talent first night so I wanted to be in Group Two. Well I chose number 19 and was the first contestant in my Group. It was interesting to see the contestants scrambling around the ballroom to be sure they got the contestant number they wanted. I had heard about various contestants carrying with them large sums of cash to ensure they got into the Group they wanted, but never saw any transactions. (I would have gladly given up my number to help recoup some of the money I had spent to get there.)

With contestant numbers drawn we now saw all the Promoters get up and introduce themselves. Since Tumara had other commitments, I stepped in and said a few words on his behalf. I welcomed everyone to St. Louis and told them who I was. I let them know that our pageant is the largest preliminary system in the contest and that we have a great number of contestants from Missouri in the contest. I also let them know that if they needed anything, they could just ring room 865!! Little did I know that they would now call up the contestants to say a few words as well. So when it came to me, I just said, “You all heard it before. WELCOME to ST LOUIE!!”

With registration over it was back off for a quick lunch and then back to room to get ready. Musica was so much fun!! He really helped me keep my wits about me and his attention to detail was very helpful. He always had a pen and pad to make notes for the next day and if there was a last minute detail that needed to be attended to. He also packed very lightly. I appreciated this. With our room being so small there was barely room to walk.

First night was Talent for me. I arrived in my cocktail dress at the dressing room with Musica behind me, carrying my category. Tub, Wigs, Dresses. A big THANKS to Trixie La Rue and Crystal Lace for stepping up to dance in Talent number. You guys were great!! Another KUDO goes to Crystal who made my new Supreme’s Mix. It was SICKENING!!! We had a little problem getting my set to light up, but when we hit the stage it was all or nothing!! I gave it my best shot and had great time. I got done with my talent and then I was back to room to clean up and go to bed. I just wanted to relax. That night’s competition did not get over till 2:30 am. WAY too late for me. (Especially when you have a full day of activities the next morning starting at 11:30am)

Thursday saw me waking up at the crack of 6:30 am to go return my cargo van I rented to move in my set. Musica and I got up, started the coffee pot, (I always bring my own. Those tinky winky hotel coffee pots don’t cut it for this caffeine princess.) We got to Enterprise as they opened and then we were off to Denny’s for a nice, sit down, breakfast!! Moons of My Hammy with extra gravy please!! It was so nice to have the pageant in your backyard! I was able to go back home to use my computer. (Hotel internet was $9.99 a day. NOT!) Pageant or not, my real life still goes on and I had to pay bills.

So back to the hotel. Musica caught a cat nap and I painted some extra nails for evening gown and Solo Talent. Before you knew it I was back in from of my makeup mirror putting on my face for night two of Evening Gown and Solo Talent. I wore my purple Landa gown and did Judy Garland for Solo Talent. Being first out of the shoot for the night is difficult. Your audience hasn’t warmed up. I could swear I heard crickets while modeling. (LOL) Not really, but the audience was very quiet. Solo Talent was over and done with before I knew it! Quick evening! I was then back to room to go to bed. Next day was Male Interview and I needed a manicure.

I was up at 8a on Friday. Coffee brewed and out the door for my manicure appointment at 9a. What a relaxing time! I think everyone should schedule some “me time” during a pageant. Shopping. Manicure. Whatever. Just some time to decompress!! I was back to the hotel in time for the contestant meeting at 11:30 am and then back to the room for a quick bite. Male Interview was a joy! Very relaxing. Maybe too relaxing. I have a tendency to talk way too much and the judges only made it around the table once for the set of questions. But I felt good about it. Once again, I gave it my best shot! I was now done with my categories and could finally have a good time watching the contest.

After a nice dinner at Clementine’s, we headed back to the hotel. I had to get dressed in my suit from Interview for my appearance that evening during the contest. Every night the contestants are paraded in their Interview attire and introduce themselves to the audience. After my appearance, I went back to the room, changed clothes and came back to watch the whole night. And what a night it was!! That night was packed full of great gowns, great Solo Talent, and bombastic TALENT!! I headed back to the room around 1:30am. I was POOPED.

Saturday! Halloween!! We didn’t have any categories and only a meeting at 11:30am. So I gathered Coco Montrese, Onyx, Sasha Leigh Chambers, and several others into my car and we were off to Grand Wig! They had never seen the likes of a Wig shop like our own Grand Wig. I introduced the girls to Lim. Love HER!! We then left with our drag goodies and it was off to POPEYE’S!!! I do love me some Popeye’s chicken tenders. Then back to the hotel to get ready for the night. I decided my costume should be interesting. I went as ‘Little Edie” from Grey Gardens . (In the weird upside down skirt and head wrap) I arrived down in the dressing room for the arrival of Miss Gay America, Victoria De Paula. I can’t tell you how thrilling this was. All the contestants lined up across from each other with our hands in an arch. This was so symbolic of not only the arrival of our Symbol of Excellence but also our fair city.

That night was the Miss Gay America review show. And what a night of entertainment! All the formers that were in town, performed a variety of numbers that held to a costume theme. It made a nice Halloween and great night! After it was over, I was back up to the room to wash up and then down to the lobby for some pageant schmoozing! I sat with Mike and Rodney, the promoters of Heart of America. They are the sweetest, and most generous with the compliments. It was great to get to know them better and I look forward to seeing more of them over the coming year. Alas the night came to end and I was back to the room for my nightly beauty rest.

Sunday was an early day. I was up at 8a for some breakfast and then a meeting and rehearsal at 10a. A BIG THANKS to Victoria for not having us do anything during the opening number except walk on stage. I’ve always felt that stupid choreography for the contestants to learn is time consuming and just that, STUPID! The opening production number should showcase the reigning queen and be a venue to introduce the contestants. It doesn’t need to add to the worries of the contestant.

We were done in 20 minutes. Now that was GREAT! So I was now off to the tanning beds with Alyssa Edwards and Bambi Bextor. Alyssa and Bambi were so nice and fun to get tot know. Little did I know that Alyssa would go on to win that night and is now our newest Symbol of Excellence.

I arrived back to the hotel with time for a nap before putting on my last face for the week. I got down to the dressing room and there was hardly a soul there. But little by little the remaining contestants all arrived. Before you knew it, it was time for the pageant to start. We filed across the stage, bowed and then gathered back onstage for the announcement of top ten. I stood there, smiling, not knowing if they would call my name or not. As the numbers were called, I recalled all the wonderful times of the past week and of the times that had got me to that stage. I thought back to my first time in drag and to my wonderful memories of performing over that past 25 years. I recalled my friendships and those performers who are no longer with us. I smiled! The top ten had been called and although I was not among those in the front row of the stage, I was still a winner and your Miss Gay Missouri 2009. I settled into my cocktail dress and took my seat amongst friends and sat back to watch the amazing talents of those chosen top ten. (A BIG CONGRATS to Tajma Stetson, for making top ten her first year. You were AMAZING and I am truly happy for you).

Before you knew it the contest was over and I was back to the dressing room to put on my Evening Gown for the crowning. I walked across the stage and took my place. I watched as they called the top ten and wondered exactly how I placed overall. When they called Alyssa Edwards as the winner I was not surprised at all. He had performed amazingly over the course of the week and his Talent was SUPERB! KUDOS Alyssa!! You have won your place in history and I can’t wait to see you at Miss Gay Missouri.

The score sheets were handed to us and as I perused the final master, I saw my placement. 37. Ughh! I have to admit I was fairly surprised. But as I have learned over the years, it’s only one set of opinions. I will never let the opinions of a set of judges sway my resolve to perform and dictate my feelings. This placement only makes me more determined to be better.

The week was over. I was relieved and sad. It was truly a remarkable experience and one I will never forget. Thank you to everyone who helped me in this endeavor. Thanks to all of you who rooted me on. And let’s go do it again next year.

Merry Greetings!
 
I hope each of you had a most lovely Thanksgiving!! I am stuffed, so to speak, with not only turkey and dressing but the warm feelings of family. Especially my family here in Missouri. I consider you all a member of my extended family and I carry the most wonderful of memories with most of you. I look forward to the holidays with not only anticipation of the wonderful season, but the knowledge that God has bestowed upon me a wonderful gift. A gift that all of you have. The gift of making people happy.
 
We, as entertainers and friends of the kinship of female impersonation hold true to the ideal that all people should be able to laugh, cry and cheer every once in a while. I hope that each of who read this take to heart the fantastic ability we posess. To be able to change into another person with a little help of a costume and makeup is something that not everyone can do. How often I have heard "I wish I could do what you do." Or better, "You really stirred me tonight." How many times have I performed onstage and the applause that floods over the footlights has touched me in such a way that I know, no matter how bad my life may be, I can go on another day.
 
Those in the audience have no idea what they do to us on stage. They can make us feel almost god-like with just the applause they give. For me, to look down and see that smiling or beguiled face, is enough to prove that I have done my job. I have always said I will never gauge my performance by the amount of tips I make. That, my dears, is petty and most unfulfilling. All I need to do is believe in my talent and give my best for each and every performance and, then and only then, am I an ENTERTAINER.
 
As we enter this holiday season, I would like each of you to think back to those entertainers who have molded us and grew the kindred bond of the family of entertainers of which we belong. For me, those individuals were more than just a drag queen. They were mentors of this craft and I hold each of their comments, both good and bad, dear to my own development. I'll never forget the fantastic Zza Zza Principle who told me that Pagoda Red was the ONLY lipstick. Of course I shall never forget Charity Case who said, "Don't try to disco tippy." Then the incomparable Ruby Falls who said, "you're too pretty for comedy, so make 'em think." My dear comrade, Miss Tracy, who taught me graceful movement with my hands. That "sweet thing", Miss Candy James, who taught me the value of a dollar and that even the most expensive things can be found on sale. My first roommate and drag sister, Domonique Sanchez, who always said, "It doesn't matter how much you spend, just look expensive." These are just a few. I challenge each of you to reach back and remember.
 
The snow has yet to fall and we're heading into winter. May your days be filled with blessings and your nights filled with bright lights and stardust. But most of all, I wish each of you the most joyest of Season's Greetings. Now go out there and entertain the troops with those songs of the season. And at least one of you carry on the tradition of Petrina Marie and do that silly "12 Drunk Songs of Christmas."

Love and Peace Always

Erica Foxx

Happy New Year! I hope that Father Time has whisked away the past of last year and deposited a blessed Baby New Year on your doorstep. I, personally, am looking forward to the coming year. 2010 should be filled with much anticipated fun and of course preparations towards a great pageant season.

My month of December was filled with shows and of course preparing for the Christmas season with friends and family. I had a great time performing some Christmas music, especially, Mele Kalekimaka by Bette Midler (a la grass skirt and coconut bra.) I know the costume is hardly appropriate for the winter weather outside, but as we all know Drag knows no season. I have no problem wearing a fox fur fling in the middle of July. In the midst of all this frivolity my family had a personal trial. My parents were involved in a horrible car accident and my mother was pinned in the car and had to be cut out by the paramedics. While at the hospital, through the x-rays, it was discovered she had broken a rib and was also found to have a cancerous tumor on her left kidney. A blessing in disguise. For if it were not for the accident, the tumor may have never been discovered. As I write, I am at the hospital waiting on her surgery. She is a very strong woman and I have faith that she will recover and overcome this obstacle in her life.

We are all hit with obstacles to overcome and each possess the capability of overcoming any trial we may face. This drive can push us towards our goals and assist us in achieving great things. Those things are up to you, but can do anything if you focus and really want to achieve it. I want each of you contemplating about the upcoming pageant season to focus on the goal of winning Miss Gay Missouri. It is with this end in sight that you can win. But how can I win, you may ask?

First, you need to be sure of the rules for each category. This is achieved by studying the guidelines outlined on the Miss Gay Missouri America and Miss Gay America websites. My first advice to you is to prepare for each category by breaking them down into the subcategories by which the judges use to award points. For example, Evening Gown is not just about a pretty dress. It involves the subcategories:

Suitability for Evening Gown -                                    0 to 30 Points
Suitability of Hairstyle -                                                  0 to 20 Points
Presentation 
(Modeling Technique, Poise, Smile, Etc.)-               0 to 40 Points;
General Appearance 
(Make-Up, Shoes, Gown Condition, Accessories)-0 to 60 Points
TOTAL POINTS                                                                   150 possible points per judge

By studying these sub-categories and applying them to yourself, you are truly focusing on winning the maximum points from each judge and that is what you want. Of course your preparations should be underway at this time. To maximize your time needed to not only win your preliminary but maybe Miss Gay Missouri America too! Our promoters are in the process of finalizing the plans for their preliminaries, so keep checking www.mgmpageant.com for updates.

January started with me attending Miss St Louis Newcomer. We had three superb contestants. Akasha Royale headed up Highway 44 from Springfield , D’Manda Respect drove down Highway 70 from Columbia and Kimi Laurel , from right here in St. Louis . Each did a fantastic job but as we know we can only have one winner and Akasha Royale was named our new St. Louis Newcomer and D’Manda Respect was named her 1st Alternate. Thus adding two more contestants vying for Miss Gay Missouri America 2010. Congratulations to Jade Sinclair, MGM 2007, for organizing a great preliminary.

At this time of year we all look towards new beginnings and it is with great pride that I announce that Coco Montrese has been named our new Miss Gay America 2010. I will not go into any form of gossip on assuming the circumstances that arose for this decision. However, I do want to address that we are professionals and are contracted workers for the profession we have chosen. Thus we should always hold ourselves to the utmost of decorum and follow the rules that are set by the officials for the contests we represent as a winner no matter what system we have selected to compete in. If you do not particularly care for the rules that you will have to follow, then I suggest you find a system that follows more closely to your own goals and aspirations.

As February heads our way, there are no preliminaries scheduled, so be sure you are readying yourselves. Start Talent and Solo Talent preparations. Think about and order your Evening Gown. (many gowns are made in China and can take 8-10 weeks for delivery). Be sure your suit for Male Interview fits nicely and see about a tailor to make any alterations in the pants length and tapering the suit coat. Remember that white dress shirts are always a good choice. They are professional and show off the powerful colors of your necktie which should also be conservative yet powerful. Remember you’re applying for the job of Miss Gay Missouri America and, believe me, it is a second job. And I’m loving every minute!!!

I hope you all get your fill of chocolates and valentines from lovers, partners, friends and family. Please remember those in Haiti and go out there and keep the Excellence flowing!

Salutations Lovers of the “ART”! The word art has many meanings but I like this one;

“The creation of works that are, in form, content, and execution, esthetically pleasing and meaningful.” I hope you all agree. We entertainers possess the aptitude and gift to CREATE our own works of art. Art has always been viewed in many forms and tastes and as we have seen tastes and forms can change over the years but,  the ability has always been given to those who have the desire and challenge themselves to provide ART. So think about the palette you are creating. Challenge yourself. Know your canvas. And CREATE ART!

My month of February was fun-filled with shows. I had so much fun working with our own MGM 2007, Jade Sinclair at the Bastille. Of course this was an event-filled evening as my entire office of other managers from my company were in attendance. I find it very rewarding and fulfilling to know that the company I work for is so open-minded and supportive. I only hope that this attitude can eventually fill the halls of our government, both state-wide and federally. Whatever your political affiliation, all citizens of our blessed country deserve basic rights of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. And that means we should be able to love whomever we chose and not be punished or side-lined for doing so. Enough said!

This show at the Bastille also brought me in the presence of our own MGM 1984 and Miss Gay America 1988, Vicki Vincent. I have always held a high regard for Vicki, since it was he who vicariously introduced my to this wonderful pageant system of Miss Gay America. I was in the audience in Kansas City in July of 1988 when I saw him go on to win Miss Gay Midwest America . I have said often that this contest was the killer of all contests. There were 21 of the greatest entertainers in the country competing that weekend. Brandi Alexander was giving up the crown. Cherry Lane was the reigning MGA. I was captivated by the Cherry’s beauty and grace. I knew right then that I had to be involved. Somehow, somewhere, I was going to do that! And lo these many years later I did just that! And here I am writing to you to hopefully pass on my memories that I hold so dear.

My shows for the month also included working with my friends, Tumara Mahorning, Sasha Nicole and Michelle McCausland at the Grey Fox. This is always fun and hilarious. We have just as much fun chatting and laughing upstairs in the dressing room than we do onstage.

The end of the month brought one of the most prestigious events to hit St. Louis since the MGA pageant. And I speak of the Coronation of Coco Montrese as our Miss Gay America 2010. Of course with this event also brought folks from all over the country as well. My many thanks to those promoters, friends and family who made the trek to our fair city to witness this auspicious event. Coco was most gracious and lovely. I was brought to tears with her crown song sung by Susan Boyle, “Who I Was Born To Be”. A song of which will be gracing a lot of give-ups this year, namely my own. The stage at the Grey Fox also saw the wild and wicked talents of Tasha Kohl, Rachel Erriks, Victoria DePaula, and Mikaila Kay and of course our own, Vicki Vincent. The show was fantastic and the house was packed. Kudos Coco !! May your reign be gracious and filled with beauty and memories that you can look back on that will make you smile.

The beginning of March saw me heading west on Highway 70 to Kansans City and my next preliminary, Miss Gay Kansas City. I arrived and Co promoter, Darrin Kuhn was calling my cell phone saying he was at the club. Of course I arrived too early but this gave me some time to get to know Darrin and to assist in some last minutes. This was my first time back to KC since entering Miss ????? back in the Stone Age. L’Oreal arrived soon after and he cackled at some old stories. Then our contestants arrived. Tajma Stetson and Sophia Sirrah. They had their male interview soon to follow and I was off to find a cheeseburger. I arrived back at the club, Tootsies, and  got ready for the night’s festivities. What a crowd!! I came out of the dressing room to mingle before the contest and it was a packed house. But of course this was the most prestigious pageant of the KC season. Miss KC goes back as far as Miss St Louis, 38 years. We’ve got a lineage of entertainers in our fair state and you should be proud to call Missouri your home. The night ended with Tajma Stetson being crowned your new Miss Gay Kansas City and Sophia Sirrah as her 1st Alternate. Congratulations gentlemen! We’ll be seeing the two of you in St. Louis this July.

But the end of the contest was not the end of my stay in KC. Melinda Ryder who extended her friendship so graciously opened his home to me for the next day. Being my birthday weekend I stayed an extra couple days. We shopped the next day and I was invited to perform in the show at Flo’s Cabaret. Thank you to Flo for opening your doors to me and I look forward to coming back.

I came back to St. Louis to a short work week and then the Miss Gay Metropolitan pageant. Dwayne Williams, Daniel Flier (aka Vanessa Vincent) and Zane Redfern really put on a spectacular contest. Professional in every way. The registration and Male Interview was held as the beautiful Midtown Marriot. We had two seasoned contestants. Crystal Lace and Tabbi Katt. Over at the Grey Fox the atmosphere was glorious as they went on to compete in all phases of the competition. We now have a new Miss Gay Metropolitan, Tabbi Katt. Kudos to Tabbi And Crystal who are our newest entries to MGM 2010.

As we enter into the end of March we see only a few more pageants remaining in the preliminary season. Be sure to check the MGM website. www.mgmpageant.com for updates. Wow I just looked at the calendar and we’re only 2 days away from Spring! I’ve seen the crocus in bloom and my jonquils are starting to break the ground. With the advent of Spring, I hope you days are filled with sunshine and your nights are fragrant and star-studded.

“April showers bring May flowers!” So the saying goes. But April and May brought us closer to the Miss Gay Missouri America 2010 and the end of my reign. Although the showers are subsiding to sunshine, the showers within my heart are flowing strong.

I have had such a marvelous year of travelling the state to our preliminaries and meeting all sorts of lovers and performers of this wonderful artform. I have written often of how much we performers can bring to the stage and how we can hold the captive audience in the palm of our hands with the slightest movement of a graceful hand or the lift of an eyebrow. Acting is the core of our ability to convey the emotions of the songs we are performing and through this act we can achieve the final result. ENTERTAINMENT!!

Being entertaining is something that a performer has to define for themselves. For we cannot just slap on some makeup, a pretty costume and, “POOF”, the audience is entertained. We need to take our craft seriously yet we still need to have fun with it. By exploring our abilities and looking beyond the “norm”, we can grow as a performer and produce a quality performance. However, we should also look at the structure of the show as a whole, too. Looking for opportunities to try out new things. Remember, a show cast is made up of all sorts of different personalities and it should reflect that as well.

As our audiences evolve, so should our performances. As a veteran of the “old school drag”, I have found myself often falling short in my own development. I found that I would perform the same old songs, over and over. Comforting? Yes. But expanding and developing? Hardly. So what I’ve tried to do is look for more interesting songs that still embody my persona. Can Erica Foxx still be a “sex kitten”? I have found various modern versions of songs that still convey the jazzy, smoke-filled cabarets of the 50’s and 60’s. I’ve also discovered the joy of Broadway-style dance moves in conjunction with “Dancing with the Stars” ballroom. I don’t think I’ll ever be Juliet Prowse or Shirley MacLaine, but I can give it my best shot. Of course practice, makes perfect.

And perfection is what I saw on stage for the last two months. I started out the month of April heading south to Springfield for Miss Queen City . I met up with ever-prepared Robyn Hunter at Martha’s Vineyard and the joyous Devion Mornet. We had 2 wonderful contestants, Nikki Stevens and LaShanti Rae. After Male Interview, we headed to Golden Corral for a ‘light” dinner. (STOP LAUGHING). Robyn commented that I was the only person she ever saw at Golden Corral who ate like a bird. It was marvelous fun and I had a great time. The contest went without a hitch and we now have a new Miss Queen City . NIKKI STEVENS!! LaShanti Rae as 1st Alternate is a bright, new star on the horizon and I wish them both the best of luck at MGM 2010.

The Easter Bunny brought me a basket of marshmallow PEEPS. (Like Michelle McCausland, I ADORE THEM.) The beautiful blooms of spring flowers have been so welcoming and the fragrance of the Hyacinths were especially lovely.

And speaking of lovely that is exactly what describes Miss St Louis America . Jade Sinclair once again put on a spectacular weekend. On Saturday April 17 we had a review show of former Miss St Louis’, Zoe Kelly, Vicki Vincent, Sasha Nicole, Chanel Carrington, Jade Sinclair, myself, Tabbi Katt, the reigning Miss Gay St. Louis 2009, Robyn Hunter, Miss St. Louis Newcomer 2010, Akasha Royale, and the honoree for the night, Candy James. Miss Candy, as she is well known, is celebrating her 40th year of performing. I have always held Candy in highest regard. She paved the way for what is now a standard in the gay community. She withstood times of laws preventing performers of wearing women’s clothing.(Yes these laws are still on the books!) She gave every performer in the Midwest their first start by believing in this artform and never giving up on the need to make people smile and forget their troubles and just “Get Happy.” Thank you Candy! You are one in a million!!

The contest was held on the following Sunday and we had 3 great contestants. All were in top-form and each was in Top- Ten from last year’s contest. Deja Brooks , Adria Andrews and Trixie La Rue gave it to the judges and the scores were amazingly close. But after the end of the evening, the lights shone bright for ADRIA ANDREWS, our newest Miss Gay St. Louis and Trixie La Rue as 1st Alternate. Gentleman, you were fantastic and congratulations on your ticket to MGM 2010.

May brought in the storms but the stars were shining bright at Miss Gateway, the last contest of our official preliminary season. That week saw some horrible weather but the storm clouds parted for a great contest. Sasha Nicole and Tajah Mahal stepped up to the plate to bring back a great contest. The outrageous Veronica Leigh Taylor captivated us with her effervescence and hilarious antics. We had 2 wonderful contestants, Miss Carriage and Musica Malone. Each competed to their best. But as we know only one can be crowned winner. MUSICA MALONE went on to win Miss Gateway and Miss Carriage was her 1st Alternate. And so folks, these are the last two contestants for Miss Gay Missouri America 2010.

As July soon approaches, the theme of MGM 2010 will be “A Dynasty Continues”. We’ve also decided upon Springfield , MO as the host city. Martha’s Vineyard will play host to the Review show on July 23rd and preliminary competition on July 24th and 25th. Final night will be in the wonderful ballroom of the University Plaza Convention Center . Please check the website www.mgmpageant.com for details of hotel room rates. More details to come so check the website often. So get out your glitz, glamour, shoulder pads and Nolan Miller and Victor Costa gowns (I have several vintage Victor’s) and celebrate the Colby’s and Carrington’s. I know July is a little early for fur coats and fox boas, but remember dahling’s, “Drag knows no season!”

I wish you all a happy Memorial Day so let’s remember what the day is all about. Please keep in your prayers those who are fighting for the rights of the free world by giving their strength and lives for peace. Bless you all and:

KEEP THE EXCELLENCE FLOWING!!

All my love

Erica Foxx

MGM 2010

Happy Pride month!!! Although the festivities of Gay Pride have come to mean parades and frivolity, the meaning of this month runs a bit deeper than streamers, convertible-carrying drag queens and “BEADS”.

Back in the summer of 1969, our roots of the gay community were banished to a few select nightclubs that had secret sayings to get in the door and certificates on the walls giving permission to the patrons to drink there and to even dance with each other.

On a warm June 22, 1969, the patron saint of gay men everywhere, suddenly died. Judy Garland had come to signify the comeback queen. She had pulled herself out of the mire of Hollywood and drug addiction to symbolize oppression and gay men had followed her religiously. That evening, at a little club in New York ’s Greenwich village , a group of patrons were remembering their personal stories of Judy and were holding a vigil in her memory. The little club, named the Stonewall Inn, had seen it’s share of police raids over the years and it’s patrons had been jailed, pushed around, and even beaten by the police.

However on this particular night when the police arrived those in attendance were not about to let the police ruin their vigil for a fallen idol. So they fought back. And thus started a riot that has gone down in the history books as the beginning of gay rights.

I would like to thank those courageous few for allowing me the “right” to perform. I now work for a company who guards my right to “love”. However I still live in a country where sexual orientation is still not a “right” to all. We need to always remember this. I hate to get on my political soapbox, but we performers really take risks every time we get on stage. Although female impersonation is becoming more and more mainstream, the hatred and bigotry is still prevalent. We who live in larger cities have throngs of fellow gay men and women who we can cling to and march with and love. However, in the “burbs” and small towns there are still those young men and women who are suffering from the stigma of being “normal”. Let us not forget them.

I recently went to a wedding reception with over 400 guests. Thinking that the “10%” adage to hold true, I asked my friend, the groom, where the other gay men were. He thought for a bit and then said, “I guess you’re it.” I was astonished. But alas, not surprised. We gay men and women, sometimes live in our “gay bubble” so to speak. I was proud to be asked to the wedding and even more proud to call my co-worker a friend. All off my co-workers know that I’m gay and that I’m also a female impersonator. When the Vital Voice wrote their article about me and other’s in our day jobs, I received a number of congratulatory emails from co-workers as well as some very high executives at my company.

I am proud of my artform and what it has brought me. The chance to perform is a blessing. I’ve always said that “drag is easiest way to get on stage without having to memorize a script.” I hope you are proud too. Be proud of yourself and what you bring to your respective stages. Every time you don that wig and makeup, take pride in the way you look and the performance you are about to give. Your audience deserves it.

As we head into the final month before Miss Gay Missouri America 2010, I ask you to keep in mind the crown and the title you are pursuing. This is a job like no other. You will be asked to represent the entire company. As the winner, you will be overseeing the preliminary system and use your expertise to help it continue to grow and foster. Remember the future of  the MGM franchise depends on you.

Remember that the venue for the contest has changed to the Clarion in Springfield , MO. Be sure to check the website for details about reserving your rooms. I look forward to seeing you all again and like always….

Keep the Excellence Flowing

Erica Foxx

MGM 2009

IT’S HERE! Hard to believe that I sat here and wrote my first edition of Foxx Tales little under a year ago. That was just one of the many duties that came with winning Miss Gay Missouri America 2009. It is with sadness that I write this as it is my last address to you during my reign. At this time next week we will be readying ourselves in Springfield for this year’s contest. And I am full of excitement and nervous energy.

When I set out to capture the crown of Miss Gay Missouri in 1990, I was a fledgling newcomer to the impersonation scene in St. Louis . However when I set out to relocate in the Gateway City , I knew that I would be performing when I got here. I had a drive and determination to make my mark in the community and to prove that I had what it takes to be a “showgirl.” I found Petrina Marie still headlining the shows at Faces and I gravitated to her to get my foot in the door. I also made quick friends with Miss Tracy, who was working at The Front Page and Monte’s. With the Upside closed, Vicki Vincent had moved to Magnolia’s and Zza Zza Principal was booking at Nights. It was between these venues that I started my trek across the city.

But it was when I caught up with Tumara Mahorning that my life and my craft changed. I quickly found a kindred spirit and we were immediate friends. I remember him picking me up at my meager apartment (with the itchy orange sofa and the toaster. JUST ASK ME). We booked ourselves all over the city. But you gotta do what ya gotta do. It was often said that I would do drag for the opening of a letter. But I had caught the “performing bug” and was loving it.

Contest fever soon caught up with me. I remember entering Miss Faces in the summer of 1990 and buying a suit at Penney’s (OOO very uptown!). And Tumara loaned me a pair of shoes that fit like a pair of window boxes. Zza Zza took me aside afterwards and said, “Child you’re so pretty but you need to get your clothes together.” And I did and never looked back. It was those guiding words from him and others that molded my look, my performances, and my character.

I love talking about the old days because it was a wonderful time and the entire community of performers was vying for a chance to win the hearts of audiences everywhere. There wasn’t just one place to work. There were 12! But alas, the crowds soon dwindled with the hideous onset of Aids. Likewise the community of performers saw its own demise.

“But up from the ashes grow the roses of success.” But that garden took cultivation from those who had survived the crisis and were willing to shape and mold a whole new crop of performers. I have always been eager to assist the newcomer. That is something that our new Miss Gay Missouri will need to do as well.

Our system in Missouri has seen a dramatic turn over the past year. The economy has halted preliminaries and often performers were scrambling to win their ticket to the state contest. But I have faith that the tide will change and we will continue to grow. Our new Miss Gay Missouri must take the reigns of this system and believe that he can foster that change and growth.

I worked hard this past year to develop a computerized email distribution list that continues to grow. I also worked to aid the promoters from the past and present to understand that putting on a contest needs to begin early in order to be successful. The Miss Gay Missouri America Pageant is one of the oldest preliminaries to the Miss Gay America Pageant and IT WILL CONTINUE! But only through hard work of our sisterhood of formers, promoters, patrons and, of course, contestants.

Our contestant base has also seen it’s share of challenges. With various other pageantry systems available to the performer of today, many potential Miss Gay America contestants are looking elsewhere. I remember that it was a standard for any contestant to “cut their teeth” in Miss Gay America. With the attention to every detail, learning interview skills, and the other categories, as well as the illustrious past, everyone wanted to go to Miss Gay America and grace the stage in their white walk-on gown. I have recently seen a YouTube post of a Miss Gay America contest from the 80’s and what a wonderful sight to see all the fantastic performers of the past. This historical perspective into our heritage is but a glimpse of what our new Miss Gay Missouri should possess. For we should not regret the past, nor wish to shut the door upon it.

I hope all of our contestants for this year's contest are as excited as I was at this time last year. It was a week away and I was feverishly packing 10 tubs full of category clothing and accessories. I was practicing my talent number. Picking up hair for gown. Trying desperately to find those last tubs of Coty Suntan powder. Even buying every tube of Suntone Pan stick at one Wal-Mart. But when I arrived at the Clarion Hotel I was pretty relaxed. It was that preparation, a lot of sweat and fair amount of money that got me in the top five. But it was my desire, determination and drive that won me the title. Although it took me several tries (7), and a long time (19 years) I still held true to my goal of winning Miss Gay Missouri America. I never faltered from that dream and although there were other opportunities to get a ticket to go to Miss Gay America through the Regional system, I wanted my first time to be as Miss Gay Missouri America.

The review show will begin at 10p on Thursday July 22 at Martha’s Vineyard . The preliminary nights of competition start at 8:30p on July 23 and 24 at Martha’s. Final Night starts at 6pm at the Clarion Ballroom. All events are in Springfield , MO. Tickets may be purchased at Martha's or at the door final night.

As I close I am reminded of a scene in the Sound of Music where Maria is confronted with her new destiny. She says to herself, “whenever God closes a door, somewhere He opens a window.”  I am heading into another chapter in my life and I will never forget this year and what I have learned. We all should have the chance to have lived a dream and I hope that you all reach yours.

Keep the Excellence Flowing

Erica Foxx

Miss Gay Missouri America 2009

Love and Peace Always

Erica Foxx

Miss Gay Missouri 2009