Simone Says

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!  

My journey to becoming Miss Gay Louisiana America began more than 20 years ago. The first time I competed, I placed Fourth Runner-Up. On my second attempt, the year of the elevator incident, I was named Best Non-Finishing Finalist.  

This journey did not happen overnight, but every experience, every lesson, and every setback prepared me for this moment. I thank God for showing me favor in His perfect timing and blessing me with the crown and responsibility of representing Miss Gay Louisiana America 2026. I am truly honored, and I promise to give my absolute best at nationals.  

There are so many people I must thank because I did not arrive at this moment alone. Whether you supported me through a monetary sponsorship, a kind word, a shared post, or simply by believing in me, please know that your love and encouragement meant more than you will ever realize.  

To my glam squad, Anthony Wiley, Terry Savoy, Yaisha “Bubbles” Alexander, Kimaya Loreal Tymes, Travis Jones, and Bee Jay, I love and appreciate each of you. Your talent, patience, creativity, and dedication to your craft always ensure that I look and feel my very best. Thank you for being committed to the vision and for always showing up for me.  

To my media team, Cody Martin, yes, a one man team, you have assisted me in more ways than I ever imagined. Your creativity is immeasurable, and you certainly know your way around a keyboard! You have helped turn my ideas into something greater than I could have envisioned. Thank you for always producing the very best for me and making sure every detail represents me beautifully.  

To my dancers, Monty, Noah, and William, you guys are truly the greatest! You gave your all during every rehearsal, and your energy, discipline, and commitment helped bring my vision to life. When it came time to perform the actual talent, I had no doubt that it would be great because I knew I had the best standing beside me.  

I would also like to extend a very special thank you to the following people and businesses for their generous sponsorship and support:  

Teryl Lynn Foxx, Mariah Moore, Serenity Lopez, Laron, Charles Darensbourg, Sherry and Amy (Promoters of Lagniappe America), Willie Mackie of The Page Bar, The Bourbon Pub, Aubrey Synclaire, Amere Nye Camry, Dominique DeLorean, Dazmin Allen, Joshua Quinn, Stanley Louis and Marcus Holland, Andrea Belair, Joe and Tyrone of JT Productions, Lady Drake Seville (My jeweler), Imani Nye Black, The Dutchess Donatella, Janiya Pryce Davis, Chris Wildridge, Demitri Ford, Lauren Wilson, Dee Dee Brown, Brandon Dykes, Hunter Holloway, Charles Mignot, Pamela Foxworth Carter, and Valentino Lord Alexander.  

Thank you for investing in me, believing in me, and helping make this dream a reality. Every contribution, no matter the size, played a part in helping me reach this moment, and I will never take that love and support for granted.  

To anyone I may have missed thanking personally, please charge it to my head and not my heart. My gratitude extends to everyone who encouraged me, prayed for me, supported me, and celebrated this victory with me.  

I am looking forward to a wonderful year representing Miss Gay Louisiana America 2026 with grace, excellence, purpose, and heart. I am excited about the memories we will create, the people I will meet, and the opportunity to make Louisiana proud at nationals.  

Until next time, I bid you, not farewell, but see you later!