Applications for the Miss Erie Pageant are Due August 17

Have you decided on a dress yet? It's never too early to get your creative mind going. To be considered for the title of Miss Erie 2025-26, you must submit your application by August 17. The application fee is $50.

Your presentation can be in an extravagant evening gown to a showgirl outfit, a business suit, or anywhere in between. The theme for this year's pageant is the Lady in Red. It is only for the Presentation Category. Formal Wear and Talent have a different set of guidelines and do not need to follow the theme.

This year's pageant is scheduled for August 22. Contestants will be judged on their talent, creative presentation, and evening wear. Katrina Twerk Island, the reigning Miss Erie, submitted the Lady in Red theme. It was selected by Joshua Smolinsky, pageant director, and Tony G, his co-producer.

Information packets and applications for the contest can be obtained at The Zone Dance Club, 133 W 18th Street, or can be emailed by Joshua upon request. His email address is jtsmoli77@gmail.com. The applications can be returned to The Zone, along with the $50 application fee. The deadline is August 17. Preferred payment of the application fee is cash or electronic payment through Venmo or CashApp, which can be provided upon request. Anyone wishing to compete or for more information can reach out to Josh on Facebook or through his email address.

About the Author

David Gurzenski-Lukes David Gurzenski-Lukes has a bachelor's and master's degree in journalism from Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. He has a long career as an editor and communications professional for a number of universities, including UCLA. He was a publications editor for United Way of Greater Los Angeles and community relations director for Pacific Beach Community Hospital in San Diego, California. Since David has been retired, he has written a book, "A Gay Grandfather Grows Up," which details his difficult coming-out journey. While David has only been an Erie resident for a short period, he is already involved with various local organizations, including Aging With Pride. He has two daughters with professional careers. Jennifer is an attorney in Washington, DC, and Julie is a computer programmer in Jupiter, Florida. He also has two grandsons. Drew is a pilot with American Airlines, and Jake is a student at Florida State University.