Katrina Twerk Island: Miss Erie 2024 reflects on her year she wore the crown

Interviewed by David Gurzenski-Lukes

"My goals as Miss Erie were to unite, demonstrate kindness, encourage, as well as make the Miss Erie Pageant visible to Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas. I feel I accomplished these goals. I worked very hard to do so. I am proud and honored to hold the title of Miss Erie. Erie was the place of my first ever appearance as Katrina Twerk Island. I encourage the next Miss Erie to be kind and respectful to your community and beyond.

There were many highlights in the year I was Miss Erie. Certainly, the night I was crowned is one of them. There are the sisterhoods that developed; I made friendships throughout the community. Working with Misty Michaels and Tony was an amazing ride. The conversations and pictures from the community are unforgettable. The cancer benefit at the Zone, hosted by Michelle Michaels, touched my heart with joy. All the diva shows and every performer I met are also unforgettable. The love I have received is outstanding. The night my mother saw me for the first time in drag with my crown and sash is an experience I will never forget! There were moments with my partner of 13 years, who assisted me backstage so many times. I have been blessed in countless ways. I leave you all with these words: Love to be loved and respect."

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.