Marks' Milestones

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The Miss Gay Louisiana America preliminary season is officially upon us, and excitement is already building across the state. This time of year always brings new energy as contestants prepare to take the stage and begin their journey within this incredible system. I am proud to continue promoting and supporting the growth of our preliminaries while watching new and returning competitors chase their goals. Alongside the start of prelim season, February was filled with many special moments I’m excited to share with you in this edition of Marks' Milestones.

February may have been a shorter month, but it certainly felt jam-packed! This month included celebrating my partner Michael’s birthday, attending several Mardi Gras events, enjoying Valentine’s Day, and celebrating my own birthday. In between all of the festivities, I stayed busy with work and shows!

The month started off by celebrating Michael’s birthday! I was able to surprise him with a birthday dinner at Fogo de Chão, where many of his friends joined us to celebrate. It was such a special evening filled with great food, laughter, and wonderful company, and seeing how surprised and happy he was made the night even more memorable. It was the perfect way to kick off a busy and exciting month.

That weekend, Michael and I attended the Krewe of Petronius Mardi Gras Ball. The night was filled with festive energy and beautiful costumes. We enjoyed mingling with friends and soaking in the excitement and spirit of Mardi Gras! Congratulations to Queen Debra Taylor and King Joey on their coronation!

The following night I returned to the Bourbon Pub and Parade for another installment of Lipstixx, where Mercedez Loreal, Tiffany Alexander, Love Latonia, and I brought another night of entertainment to an incredible audience.

Keeping the Mardi Gras festivities going, I was honored to attend the King Cake Queen Coronation celebrating Debbie With a D as King Cake Queen XXXI. This was my third time attending, and it has quickly become one of my favorite annual traditions. Thank you to Tomy Acosta for always hosting such a fantastic event and preserving this special tradition.

The following weekend, I was finally able to spend some time along the parade route with friends and enjoy the Mardi Gras festivities. After such a busy season, it felt wonderful to simply relax, celebrate, and take in the excitement of the crowds, music, and beautifully decorated floats. We had an incredible time catching throws and making memories together while embracing the spirit of Mardi Gras.

To officially bring my Mardi Gras season to a close, I performed at The Bourbon Pub and Parade for our annual Lundi Gras celebration. The show, hosted by Aubrey Synclaire, featured Karli LaCorre, Mercedez Loreal, Siberia Alexander, Tiffany Alexander, and myself. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of another amazing Mardi Gras season.

The following week I celebrated my 33rd birthday with a day full of surprises. The celebration began with some birthday pampering before my partner Michael planned a beautiful picnic at New Orleans City Park, complete with a charcuterie spread, wine, and all the perfect touches. We spent the afternoon walking through the Sculpture Garden, enjoying what turned out to be an absolutely beautiful day.

That evening brought another surprise as Michael arranged dinner at The Court of Two Sisters surrounded by friends and family. The celebration ended with the biggest red velvet cake I have ever seen, making for an amazing birthday filled with love and unforgettable moments. It was truly an incredible birthday, and I am so thankful for the love, thoughtfulness, and memories that made the day so special.

With February now behind us, I close this chapter feeling thankful, refreshed, and inspired for what lies ahead. Each performance, celebration, and shared moment continues to shape this incredible journey, and I am so grateful to have you all along for the ride. Until next time — here’s to more milestones ahead.