On Friday August 8th if you’re not lounging pool side or living it up in Rehoboth take yourself to Philadelphia’s Second Annual Mr Gay Philadelphia Competition. While the current Mr Gay Philadelphia was unavailable for comment on his year of launching ships, attending black tie events and kissing babies I was able to chat with the man behind Mr Gay Philadelphia (no pun intended). Brue Yelk– a man who dons many a hat in support of Philadelphia events and benefits – producer of the event was available for comment.

Phillly Gay Calendar: How many years have we had a Mr Gay Philadelphia?

Bruce Yelk: This will be the second year in Philly, 2nd however for entering the international competition this is our 3rd year. This takes in all the surrounding regions; basically from South Jersey to Harrisburg. It’s safe to say that until another region does a Mr Gay we are it. It really includes DE, NJ & PA and then the chosen Mr. Gay Philadelphia goes to national competition then that winner goes onto the International Competition.

PGC: So you must be very proud to have developed Mr Gay Philadelphia, especially since it encompasses so much of the neighboring states as well as Pennsylvania?

BY: Oh, I can’t claim credit for founding it. Don Spralding based in Los Angeles is the actual founder of Mr Gay International and then he franchises it out to producers throughout the world. We met at a gay travel convention and I thought Philly needed to be included, due to the size of the community here. It takes a long time to plan an event like this, that’s why we sent out the first year.

PGC: I am sure you have been asked this over and over again but how does one apply for such a fun event?

BY: Oh, you can sign up! Last year we had 20 and we Expect to have roughly the same amount in 08. It takes a while to get them all Together, because we just finished up competitions at Woody’s Bump & Pure. Then I reach out to all of the gay businesses locally and in the region, which works well for them because when they sponsor a competitor they receive free exposure and advertising. Of course if you don’t have a business to sponsor you I generally get a business without a representative to take them on.

PGC: It’s nice to know that anyone can sign up. I wasn’t expecting that.

BY: Oh, I do my best to keep things very egalitarian.

PGC: I know you have produced events benefitting organizations dear to the hearts of gay Philadelphians. Will any of the proceeds be donated to worthwhile organizations?

BY: Of course this is a charity event, benefitting Action AIDS. In addition to collected bar revenues there will be a silent auction. Key prizes to be bid on are a trip for two to San Francisco and a piece of artwork going for a minimum bid of $3500.

PGC: Of course you’ll be having entertainment? We do in the gay community love a floor show!

BY: Yes we will have several performances throughout the night. Philly’s own Marisa K. Divine and Brittney Lynn will be performing keeping with an Olympic theme, students from the University of the Arts will be doing a dance number. And of course Lisa Lisa – our resident hostess – will bring her energy to the stage. If you follow swimming Former Gold Medalist Bruce Hayes will be a judge as is household name Michael Musto and Sirius Radio Personality Frank DeCaro

PGC: It sounds like a fun night.

BY: Oh, that’s one thing we never have to worry about.

If you’re planning on going tickets range from $30-60.00 and the event will be held at 8pm at 401 South Broad Street, better known as the Gershman “Y”.