Congratulations to Jenny Russell, the newly crowned Miss LA Tech, who will compete in Miss Louisiana 2010! Congrats to Lauren Abshire for representing the university throughout her reign. Other awards were: 1RU - Broadwell (Talent & Congeniality); 2RU - Nicole Fairburn; 3RU - McKinzie; 4RU - Tori Close. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Congratulations to Meghan Lee (Miss La Bonne Terre), Jamie Lombardino (Miss Deep South), and Sara Comisky (Miss LA Gulf Coast) - who will all compete in Miss Louisiana 2010. Congrats to Meghan Melder & Lauren Lachney for representing your title throughout your reign! Other awards were: 1RU - Ebonee Rhodes (Miracle Maker Scholarship); 2RU - Gaby Palma (Talent). On-stage Question went to Kandice Williams. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Congratulations to Andrea Sonnier (Miss Jazzland), Kim Rusely (Miss Bossier City), & Katie Cook (Miss Holiday in Dixie) - who will all compete in Miss Louisiana 2010. Congrats to Mandi Ridgdell, Carley McCord, & Erica Durr for representing your title throughout your reign! Other awards were: Interview - Kamesha west;Talent, Evening wear, & Swimsuit tie - Katie Cook; 1RU & Swimsuit tie - Nicole Fairburn; 2RU - Brittany Pippen; 3RU - Jessica Poumaroux; 4RU - Gaby Palma. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Congratulations to everyone who competed in this wonderful pageant. Queen of Hope is a fundraiser pageant for the American Cancer Society in memory of the director's late husband. The queens will host a Relay for Life in Avoyelles Parish held later this spring. For more information on the pageant & queens, please visit the website (link) above.
Congratulations to Gaby Palma, the newly crowned Miss City of Pineville, who will compete in Miss Louisisana 2010. Congrats to Whitney Mixon for representing the City of Pineville well throughout your reign! Other awards were: People's Choice & SS winner - Tori Close; Talent, Evening Gown, & Director's Award - Gaby Palma. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Erin attended the annual Karnival Krewe de Louisiane Mardi Gras ball - the only non-profit krewe! All proceeds raised benefit the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer hospital and OLOL Cancer Center. The krewe raised $175,000! It was a wonderful evening complete with Mardi Gras tradition. King David Manship and Queen Karen Mainieri welcomed the Dukes & Duchesses, along with the 12 debutantes. There was even an indoor parade and TWO bands! Thank you to everyone who helped raise the funds for great causes!
Erin rode alongside Ainsley in the Jupiter parade in downtown Baton Rouge. It was extremely cold but this did not keep the people away! It was great to be included in another great tradition of Louisiana! A special thank you to the Hood's who provided the convertible and throws!
CONGRATULATIONS TO CARESSA CAMERON, MISS AMERICA 2010!!! Congratulations to Katherine Putnam, Miss LA, who placed 3RU! It was a tough night of competition and what beautiful ladies! Congratulations to everyone!
MISS AMERICA - Caressa Cameron, Miss VA
1RU: Kristy Cavinder, Miss CA
2RU: Stefanie Wittler, Miss TN
3RU: Katherine Putnam, Miss LA
4RU: Mallory Ervin, Miss KYTuesday: Talent - Miss VA; SS - Puerto Rico
Wednesday: Talent - Miss CA; SS - Miss NY
Thursday: Talent - Miss MI; SS - Miss OR
Erin and Royal Princess, Gigi, reigned over the Krewe of Mutts parade. What a turn out! There were so many dogs, owners, and animal lovers who turned out for this wonderful cause! The afternoon was complete with a costume & float contest - and of course the Mutts parade! Along side Queen Victoria and King Cane, Princess Gigi and Erin had a great time in the parade, along with Cane II (Raising Cane's beloved mascot!). Gigi even caught the eye & heart of Donna Douglas (Elly May from The Beverly Hillbillies). Thank you everyone who made this event a huge success!
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Erin, Morgan, Nancy, Wendy & Amanda all rode in the Krewe de Mystique parade in downtown Baton Rouge. It was a great day together and the weather was somewhat manageable (compared to other parades!). There was sun for a little bit then nippy winds. However the parade was wonderful and lots of fun! The girls were lucky enough to follow each other in the parade lineup. Erin wraps up her Mardi Gras celebration with Mystique but a few of the other girls will travel to Mississippi for one last parade.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR BELOVED SAINTS WHO WON THEIR FIRST SUPER BOWL! GO SAINTS!
Erin had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the annual Our Lady of the Lake Radiothon benefiting the Children's Hospital (Children's Miracle Network). Erin met with volunteers & played with some of the patients! A special thanks to 96.1FM - The River for broadcasting this radio event; matter of fact Erin even had a chance to do a short interview with Scott Mac encouraging people to call & donate.
Friday, Erin returned to OLOL to help with the radiothon. Erin again played & visited with some of the children & helped answering phones. As the evening closed, the radiothon received enough calls to be able to give all 60 patients a toy - so a very special thank you to all of the Miracle Makers! For all of the pics, please visit the Photo Gallery.

Erin attended the final prelim of the Miss LA 2010 pageant season. Congratulations to the newly crowned Miss Lafayette, Brittany Dugas, and the newly crowned Miss Acadiana, Lacie Thomas! Both young ladies will compete at the Miss Louisiana pageant this June. Congratulations to Kenley Minchew & Crista McCann for representing the titles during their reign! Other awards: 1RU - Ebonee Rhodes (SS winner); 2RU - Kara Ramirez; Interview, EW, & Talent awards were awarded to Brittany Dugas. Congratulations to everyone who competed at Miss Lafayette AND to everyone who competed throughout the pageant season! Good Luck at Miss Louisiana!
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Saturday was another gorgeous day to SAVE THE TATA'S!!! This year's Race for the Cure had 12,000+ people come out to support this wonderful cause. Erin sadly couldn't not attend this year due to work; however, not wanting to miss out, Erin participated in the "Sleep in for the Cure." Although she surely wasn't sleeping, she was still able to help while working! Thank you to everyone who was able to "Race for the Cure"!
It was an early morning as Erin, Larry, & Danny all appeared on the WBRZ 2-une In Morning Show. It was an opportunity to promote the upcoming Children's Miracle Network Bass Tournament held at St. James Boat Club. Of course Mr. Larry cooked up something delicous - pastalya! This weekend during the tournament, Erin & others will judge the jambayla & pastalya contest.
The Miss Baton Rouge Pageant was held at Tara High School with interviews held at St. James Place on Saturday, February 28. The Miss division had 12 young ladies vying for the title of Miss Baton Rouge.The Teen division had 3 young ladies competing for Miss Baton Rouge's Outstanding Teen.
- Jennifer Rowland - Director's Award, People's Choice, Ad Winner
- Lauren Lachney
- Ashney Williams
- Erin Husbands - Miss Baton Rouge
- Tanya Yidin
- Anna de Tiege - First Runner-Up, Evening Wear Award
- Chelsea Marak
- Elizabeth Dunn - Second Runner-Up
- Gaby Palma - Third Runner-Up, Talent Award
- Ebonee Rhodes - Interview Award, Swimsuit Award
- Lucy Mercer - Miss Congeniality
- Claire Cummings
- Olivia Ruby - Queen, Interview Award, Talent Award, Lifestyle & Fitness Award
- Maranda Masichuk - First Runner-Up
- Amy Dousay - Second Runner-Up
Congratulations to all of the young ladies! Erin & Olivia will advance to Miss Louisiana & Miss Louisiana's Outstanding Teen, respectively.
"Miss Baton Rouge, Erin Husbands, made her first personal appearance since winning her title yesterday. AND the first official visit was here at St. James Place. Our own Sandi McGrew was the pageant director this year. She brought Erin and other contestants to SJP on several occasions to practice their piano pieces here on some of our beautiful pianos. Our residents thoroughly enjoyed watching and listening to the practice sessions and feeling the excitement of the coming pageant. The interview portion of the pageant was held here and Beverly from the beauty parlor was one of the judges. Some of residents were also able to attend the pageant held last Sunday at Tara High. Thanks so much to Sandi for making my AL [Assisted Living] residents feel a part of something so special." ---Faith KobetzFOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY
Today was a beautiful day for a 5K. Along side thousands of other participants, Erin walked to raise awareness for breast cancer at LSU Campus in Baton Rouge. After walking alongside Kim O., Ms. Swamp Pop, Erin visited with other walkers and vendors attending the event. Erin even had the honor of presenting awards along with Miss LSU, Lauren Edwards, and Miss Louisiana-US National. For more photos, visit the Photo Gallery.
Erin visited Poland Jr. High School to thank all of the students for participating in the fund raiser for Children's Miracle Network. Erin had the opportunity to visit many classrooms (and even the cafeteria!) to personally thank the students, teachers, faculty and staff for their help. The lucky winner of the raffle will win this Easter basket filled with goodies! For more pictures, visit the Photo Gallery.
This chilly Saturday morning was the Big Apple Run for Reading in Downtown Baton Rouge. Before and after the race, participants donated thousands of books to be distributed to various libraries throughout the Baton Rouge area. This would be Erin's first 5K to actually "run." Thanks to all of the sponsors, volunteers, and Big Apple Board for making this event possible! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin met with Volunteers of America to discuss becoming the spokesperson for the Greater Baton Rouge chapter of Volunteers of America. Erin is very excited for the opportunity to reach out to more people within the 19 parishes that the Greater Baton Rouge affiliate serves. For more information on Volunteers of America of Greater Baton Rouge, please visit http://www.voa-br.org/.
Erin attended orientation to begin her work with Volunteers of America. She learned of the countless ways that volunteers can give back to their community as well as reach out to those in need.
Erin traveled to Monroe, LA, this weekend for the Miss Louisiana State meeting. There she met with all of the contestants in the Miss and Outstanding Teen. Friday evening there was a silent auction and dinner. It was a great opportunity to meet with the directors from across the state and begin forming friendships with the other Miss LA participants. The silent auction raised over $3,000 (all proceeds raised go back into the Miss LA scholarship). Throughout the weekend, the Miss contestants filmed commercials to air on finals night during the broadcast. Saturday was the main meeting. Both the Outstanding Teen's and Miss contestants participated in a lottery to pick their contestant number. It was wonderful weekend. It's countdown time! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin began her training with Volunteers of America. She learned more about the many programs offered through Volunteers of America. Erin met more of the Volunteers of America Staff and other volunteers. She is very excited about the opportunity to work with the Volunteers of America.
Erin emceed the Miss Sulphur Heritage pageant in Sulphur, LA. Erin is also the outgoing Miss Sulphur Heritage. She spent the previous year traveling the state learning more about the culture of Louisiana. She also dedicated her year to teaching her young queens the importance of volunteerism. Erin would like to thank Ms. Fae and Ms. JoAnn for an incredible opportunity; and a special thanks to the Sulphur Heritage royalty for making this year unforgettable. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Olivia, Baton Rouge's Outstanding Teen, held a fundraiser for Prevent Child Abuse, Louisiana. Olivia recently became the official spokesperson for Prevent Child Abuse, Louisiana. Area youth came out and enjoyed a wonderful evening dancing, playing, singing and posing with Olivia! Thanks to everyone who helped and made the night special! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin had the privilege of attending the Celebration for Change fundraiser for Volunteers of America. She met with many volunteers from Baton Rouge area and even met more of the Volunteers of America staff. Thank you to everyone who came out to support Volunteers of America! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Louisiana Champions is a golf tournament, with girls and boys divisions, that invites the top five golfers from each division to compete against one another. For the past 7 years, Louisiana Champions has offered the golfers an opportunity to compete for scholarship monies to be awarded to the schools. Congratulations to the winners of this year's tournament. Erin spent the day with the golfers, their coaches, their parents & families, and the Louisiana Champions Committee volunteering. It was a wonderful opportunity to see the outstanding display of talent from the schools represented throughout the state of Louisiana. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
The Miss America Organization is nationally partnered with the Children's Miracle Network. Today, Erin had the opportunity to tour Our Lady of the Lake Hospital and visited with the kids and families that the Children's Miracle Network supports. Erin met with a few kids and their families and even saw the newly renovated playroom. The Miracle Mansion annual fundraiser will draw the lucky winner of the new home in Denham Springs on July 14. Thank you Danny Fields and Sharon Wesberry for a wonderful afternoon! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin spent an amazing day spending time with five of the programs offered through Volunteers of America. Erin began her day at the Drop-In Center where she helped hand out snack bags to the homeless. The Drop-In Center has an average of 140 people pass through the center each day. This center has a washer and dyer for weekly laundry loads, showers are offered daily, and mail can be sent to the center.
Next, Erin spent time with the staff at the Family Resource Center. She gave her time assisting in office duties. After wards, Erin visited The Day Program which is a prevocational program for adults with disabilities.
After lunch, Erin continued her day with a visit at the Partnership in Child Care which a resource center for parents and teachers of preschoolers. Erin cut out paper tiaras and cut-outs for the afternoon activity. Then she ended her day at Parker House where she played with the kids as they celebrated the last day of school. The kids enjoyed their activity with Erin and of course loved playing outside!
Thanks to everyone for making this day special! A special thanks to Amanda Gustavson for planning this day for Erin and for all the Volunteers of America Staff that welcomed Erin throughout the day! For the pictures of the day, please visit the photo gallery.
Erin gathered with hundreds of other March of Dimes supporters at the annual March for Babies event. Erin had the pleasure of visiting with mothers, fathers, and relatives of preemies, many of the event's sponsors, and even the the Ambassador of the Lake Charles March for Babies. The Mom and Baby Mobile was even in attendance. After the 3 mile march, the participants enjoyed food & drinks, games, best t-shirt & cheer contests, and awards for fund raising. Thanks to everyone who came together and saved babies! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Hundreds of people visited the capital Wednesday to get information on Respiratory Awareness. Vendors were there representing different organizations and health care. People were welcomed to participate in spirometery tests, a question and answer session, and learn more about advocacy. Thanks to everyone who made this day very informative and wonderful!
The Volunteers of America Mental Health Awareness Day was a full day of guest speakers and informative sessions. Erin was able to greet participants and register them for the conference. This was the 9th year the Mental Health Awareness Conference was held.
The official Miss Louisiana Press Conference kicked off the pageant week (a little early!) in Monroe, LA. There were 15 Miss contestants and 19 Outstanding Teen contestants there to introduce themselves, their title, and directors. Many representatives were there such as members of the Miss Louisiana Board, the host hotel - The Atrium, the mayor of Monroe, and even Sam Haskell, III, a member of the Miss America Board of Directors.
Later that evening, Sam Haskell, III, along with his wife, were in attendance for the signing of his newly released book - "Promises I made My Mother." It was wonderful to hear Miss Louisiana, Blair Abene, to read an excerpt from the book and even listen to Mr. Haskell share other childhood memories. PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES.
Seven Miss Louisiana Contestants traveled to New Orleans to take part in the CMN Children's Hospital Telethon. The ladies were interviewed on TV and had a wonderful time raising funds for Children's Hospital of New Orleans. The contestants even had the opportunity to meet with several of the children and their families who have been touched by Children's Miracle Network and Children's Hospital. Thank you to everyone who pledged to Children's Miracle Network. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin visited with the volunteers of the St. Patrick Hospital in Lake Charles. There was a delicious lunch served for the volunteers to thank them for all of their help. During the telethon held at the beginning of June, St. Patrick's raised over their goal of $350,000. Thank you for the generous donations that will help children get the care they need. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin toured Cabrini hospital in Alexandria and visited with families and their children. Erin had a chance to meet with the wonderful nurses and doctors who give these children the utmost care and a hopeful beginning to life. This hospital tour concludes Erin statewide tour of the Children's Miracle Network hospitals. It was a wonderful opportunity to see first hand how children and their families benefit through the Children's Miracle Network. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
The talented, beautiful, and intelligent Outstanding Teens competed in Monroe, LA for the Miss LA Outstanding Teen title. The "Miss" contestants began their pageant week by supporting their teens. Congratulations to Olivia Ruby, Miss Baton Rouge's Outstanding Teen for winning preliminary physical fitness award and placing 4th runner up to Miss LA Outstanding Teen. Congratulations to all of the young ladies for making it to the state pageant. Good Luck Kelly Bernard, Miss LA Outstanding Teen 2009, at Miss America's Outstanding Teen pageant held in August in Florida.
The "Miss" contestants spent a wonderful week in Monroe, LA rehearsing, visiting hospitals, participating in a fashion show, meeting members of the community, and of course competing for the title of Miss Louisiana. Congratulations to everyone on a beautiful display of intelligence, talent, and beauty! Good luck to Katherina Putnam, Miss LA 2009, at the Miss America Pageant in January held in Las Vegas, NV. For more on pageant week and the awards list - please see "Pageant Week." FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES FROM THE ENTIRE WEEK, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Today was second annual Stuff the Bus! The Office Depot's in Baton Rouge and Gonzales were busy collecting donated school supplies that would be distributed to the elementary and middle schools of East Baton Rouge and Ascension Parishes. Erin helped with collections at the Office Depot on College drive in Baton Rouge. She spent a wonderful afternoon with Baton Rouge High students, members of V.I.P.S., WBRZ, Raising Cane's, Office Depot, and volunteers from throughout the community! By five o'clock, a third bus had to be brought in for all of the school supplies that had not been stuffed yet! Not only did everyone have a great time accepting donations, but Cane II (Raising Cane's beloved mascot) was in attendance as well! Thanks to everyone who donated today - the supplies will help make the year of learning for the students very special! Monday, Erin will help "un-stuff" the bus to prepare the supplies for distribution. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY. Or click HERE for the WBRZ video link.
The annual Miracle Mansion giveaway kicked off the countdown to the Mansion Giveaway! This weekend Erin had the opportunity to help host the final open house of the mansion. It is a gorgeous home built in Greystone Country Club and to think that one lucky ticket wins that beautiful home! Other prizes include diamond earrings, a new car donated by Price LeBlanc, and much more! But the best gift is the funds beings raised for the children at Our Lady of the Lake Children's Hospital! Tickets are still available through Tuesday at noon - and can be purchased online. Tuesday Erin will attend the live giveaway from the Miracle Mansion -tune it to see who wins! It could be you! Thank to you all of the sponsors and for the donations made to the Miracle Mansion! It truly is a dream home! Don't forget to see the pictures of the home in the PHOTO GALLERY!
Erin had a wonderful time with the children at the Day of Leisure. There were games galore, arts & crafts, basketball, scooters, water balloons, and even an obstacle course space walk! Subway generously donated lunch for the kids and volunteers and the afternoon was spent much in the same way as the morning: FUN! Thanks to all of the volunteers who helped make today fun!
Congratulations to everyone who competed in Dixie Gem Peach! Congratulations to Lauren Abshire, the new Miss Dixie Gem Peach. She will compete in Miss Louisiana 2010 in Monroe, LA. Also, congratulations to Jenny Russell on representing Dixie Gem Peach this previous year! Runners-up were: 1st - Raven Hollins; 2nd - Meghan Melder; 3rd - Tiffany Terrell.
After all the stuffing of school supplies last week, today Erin helping with the un-stuffing and separation of the school supplies. Supplies were distributed to East Baton Rouge parish elementary and middle schools. There were mountains of loose leaf paper, markers, crayons, rulers, glue, binders, and so much more! Thank you to everyone who donated supplies to ensure a fun & happy school year for all of the students!
It was a wonderful evening celebrating the Children's hospital and the support and donations of the community. It was touching to watch the TV special with the builders, sponsors, and members of the foundation before the live drawing of the mansion and the other wonderful prizes! Congratulations to Normand on winning the Miracle Mansion! Thank you to everyone who supported the Children's Miracle Network! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin traveled to Alexandria to watch the finals of the Louisiana's Jr Miss state program. Eleven young ladies displayed talent, poise & grace, physical fitness, and intelligence. Erin also was able to visit with Andrea Finch, America's Jr Miss 2003, who was also a judge for the state program. The Louisiana Jr Miss Program has a unique program within itself called "little sisters." Third grade girls are invited to be a little sister for a junior miss during the week long events. Erin was able to meet up with her little sister (who isn't so little any more!!) and catch up on all of Kelly's accomplishments. Along with Kelly, was her younger sister, Carrie, who was also a junior miss little sister in 2006. Congratulations to all of the contestants! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Congratulations to Liz Dunn, the newly crowned Miss Watermelon Festival, and Meghan Melder, the newly crowned Miss Union parish. Both young ladies will compete in the 2010 Miss Louisiana pageant. Congratulations Brittney on representing the Watermelon festival throughout your reign! Other awards included: Swimsuit winner - Nicole Fairburn (2nd runner up); Talent winner - Erica Durr. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
L-S-U! It was amazing to be back on LSU Campus gearing up for 2009 LSU Football season! Kathy Miles, the first lady of tiger football, hosted her 6th annual Lady Tiger Football 101 in the PMAC. Ainsley Beeman, Miss LSU, and Erin were in attendance to welcome the ladies who traveled from far and wide to attend the clinic. The participants were treated to Q&A with the coaches, learned plays, played a game to find out the "last tiger standing" who won box tickets to an LSU game - and even had a Q&A with Coach Miles! After a tailgating party and shopping from the vendors - the ladies watched a promo video fewed only by LSU player's eyes during the season and marched down the hill to the locker room. After the tour, the ladies were pumped up and ready to run out the shoot, into Death Valley! WOW! Thanks to everyone who helped make this event awesome! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Congratulations to Valeria Williams, who also competed in Miss Louisiana; she will now compete in October in the Miss LA-USA pageant. Congratulations to all of the winners in the morning session! Everyone was beautiful! Congrats to Brittany, Maddie, & Kaitlyn!!! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin met with Amy of the American Cancer Society to discuss volunteering opportunities within the community for the remainder of her year. Next Saturday, Erin will attend the Jamaica Me Crazy fundraiser and begin networking with members of the community.
Today was the annual LSU Fan Day and WOW! Hours before the doors opened there were fans lined up eagerly awaiting to get inside. Erin, along side with Miss LSU, Ainsley, were with the LSU Cheerleaders and Mike the Tiger signing autographs. It was truly an amazing afternoon meeting & greeting the fans and taking pictures. The LSU Ladies Soccer team and Volleyball team were also in attendance. The LSU football players and coaches arrived at 3:30 and signing autographs until 5pm. Even though the football players were the big stars of the afternoon - Erin and Ainsley kept signing autographs until the last second along with the cheerleaders & Mike the Tiger! (FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.) GEAUX TIGERS!
The annual fund raiser for the American Cancer Society-Baton Rouge was another success! Supporters of ACS enjoyed delicious food, a great band, and a multitude of items being auctioned to raise monies to fight cancer. From casino resort packages to a year's worth of free movie tickets even to a LSU football game sideline passes - there was something for everyone! After the silent auction, there was a live auction including a Jamaica cruise, Disney trip (including airfare!), artwork, and a diamond pendant - which Erin got to model for the entire evening! Thank you to everyone for making this night a huge success! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Congratulations to Mary Jane Hobgood, the newly crowned Miss Shreveport, who will compete in the 2010 Miss Louisiana pageant. Mary Jane also won talent and tied with Hope for SS and EW. Everyone did an outstanding job! Runners-up and special awards: Hope Anderson, 1st runner-up & SS and EW winner (tie with MJ); Kenley Minchew, 2nd runner-up; April Nelson, 3rd runner-up; Carley McCord, 4th runner-up.
Congratulations to Miss LAOT, Kelly Bernard who placed top ten at MAOT. You did a wonderful job and enjoy the rest of your year representing Louisiana! Congratulations to Jeanlette Morelan, Miss Wisconsin's OT, who captured the title of Miss America's Outstanding Teen.
Erin visited the Salvation Army to make a donation. The Salvation Army was very thankful for her donation. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin visited to residents at St. James Place. She visited with them, played the piano, and even signed a few autographs! It was a wonderful afternoon being able to bring an extra smile to the residents at SJP. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin traveled to Lake Charles to take part in the annual Cutest Kid Contest, a fund raiser for Children's Miracle Network. This wonderful event has taken place for over 15 years! The photographers were wonderful and the children who came by today were absolutely adorable! Thanks to all of the volunteers who helped! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin met with Umeca, Division Director of March of Dimes, Capital Area Division. Erin will be donating her time gearing up for Prematurity Awareness Month in November. Erin will be helping with the Signature Chef event (Nov. 4), High Heels for Hope (Nov. 12), & the Real Estate Luncheon (Nov. 19). Let's get ready to SAVE BABIES!
Congratulations to Erica Durr, the newly crowned Miss City of Lights. Erica will compete in the 2010 Miss Louisiana pageant. Congratulations Courtney for representing Natchitoches throughout your reign! Other awards: People's Choice - Megan Lee; 3rdRU - Meagan Lee; 2ndRU - Ebony Rhodes; 1st RU & Interview winner - Kim Rusely; SS, Talent, & EG Winner - Erica Durr; Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Erin becomes a spokesperson for National Adoption Month for St. Elizabeth Foundation of Baton Rouge. Erin was adopted from Puebla, Mexico when she was 5 1/2 months old on Thanksgiving Day! Erin was invited to attend the Friends of St. Elizabeth Foundation luncheon where she will be introduced for her work in "volunteerism" and "adoption" -- a perfect fit!
Congratulations to Lacey Sanchez, the newly crowned Miss Southeastern, who will compete in Miss Louisiana 2010. Congratulations Jessica on representing Southeastern University throughout your reign! Other awards and finalists are:
Miracle Maker Award, People's Choice & Congeniality: Dynnishea Jones; Prelim Talent: Suzanne H.; Prelim SS: Lacie Thomas; Prelim Interview: Anna de Tiege. 3RU: Heather Gonzales; 2RU & Prelim EW: Brittany Dugas; 1RU: Kaleigh Aguiilar; Academic Award & Miss Southeastern: Lacey Sanchez.
Erin visited Lake Charles once more to be apart of the exciting conclusion of the "Cute Kid's Contest," a fund raiser for the Children's Miracle Network. All funds raised stay right there in Lake Charles at St. Patrick's Hospital. With over 170 "cute kids" it was a close run with only a few dollars separating contestants! There were several honorable mentions, with each of them raising over $300+! The top ten "cute kids" were awarded gift bags towering over them! Congratulations everyone and especially to the "cutest kid" who raised over $1,000! The grand total for the event was OVER
$22, 450!!!!! Thanks to everyone who helped raised funds and helped the children at St. Patrick's! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin visited the home of the Town's in Baton Rouge for the Sip-n-See of the most recent adoption of St. Elizabeth's - Claire Renee. For over 20 years, St. Elizabeth's have placed hundreds of babies into loving families who otherwise would not have children. Erin met with volunteers, of which many have children who are adopted! It was wonderful for Erin to be able to share her story with everyone and meet other families whose lives have been touched by adoption. Erin looks forward to celebrating National Adoption Month with St. Elizabeth's by spreading the good news about adoption ... one conversation at a time! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin hosted a Princess Tea Party with Princesses Maci, Maggi, & Caroline. The Princesses arrived in style with attire fit for a princess! The Princesses had an afternoon packed with baking "tea hat" cookies, playing Princess games, drinking tea, and even finding out which Disney Princess they most resemble. It was a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon - with "Princess" friends!
Congratulations to Kelsi Crain, the newly crowned Miss ULM, who will compete in Miss Louisiana 2010! Congratulations to Hope Anderson for representing the university during her reign! Hope was 1RU at the Miss Louisiana pageant this past June. Other awards are: 1RU - Brandi Stout (Interview); 2RU - Karmen Rubin; 3RU, People's Choice, & Miss Congeniality - Lindsey Eickman; 4RU - Evan Lane; Non-finalist Academic award - Rachel Hornsby. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Erin had the opportunity to visit with the children of the Baton Rouge community as they came out for a night of trick-or-treating (call it a practice run for Halloween!). Hundreds of children dressed in adorable costumes came out to visit with LSU Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis, Golf, and all of the LSU sports! Especially the little girls enjoyed being able to get Erin's autograph and take pictures with Erin's crown. Erin even got to pose with a few of the LSU football players. It was a fun & exciting evening! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin and Ms. Sandi, Director, visited with students at Tara High to kick off promoting the Miss Baton Rouge & Outstanding Baton Rouge pageant held February 6 & 7 at Tara High School. Ms. Sandi explained to the students about areas of competition and answered any questions. There was a wonderful turnout of interested young ladies - one of which could be the next Baton Rouge's Outstanding Teen! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Congratulations Sara Brooks, Miss LA-USA, and Brianna W., Miss Teen LA-USA! Congrats to Valeria Williams for placing top 15 and Jennifer Soileau for placing 2RU. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Erin had the honor of attending the Signature Chef Gala for March of Dimes. The evening began with a silent auction full of a variety of goodies: autographed LSU posters, game balls, handbags, fitness trainers, wine glasses, and so much more! Erin, herself, was even an auction item. Erin will attend a girl's tea party at the Enchanted Mansion in Baton Rouge. The evening continued with a parade into the ballroom where the chef's opened their booths for the tasting. The presentation began and Erin gave a short speech on her involvement with March of Dimes. The Gala honored the First Lady of Baton Rouge, Mrs. Lois Holden. The night concluded with the live auction and "Fund the Mission." Thank you to everyone who made this evening possible - and thank you for helping to save babies! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Congratulations to the newly crowned Miss Port City, Rebecca Price (talent & EW winner), and Miss Spirit of the Red, Raven Hollins! (interview & SS winner) - Both young ladies will compete in Miss Louisiana 2010. Congratulations to Joy Thomason for representing her title throughout her reign! Joy placed 4RU at Miss Louisiana! Congratulations to Ravanya Tracey for representing her title and for placing top ten at Miss Louisiana! Other award: 1RU - Ariel Gradingo; 2RU: Kamesha West. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Erin attended the Bengal Belles - LSU Senior Luncheon held at the River Center in downtown Baton Rouge. There were over a thousand people in attendance! Erin and Ainsley, Miss LSU, participated in the welcoming parade, modeled the door prizes & raffles, and even visited with the football players. It was a very busy day in between the photos, magazines pictures, greeting fans, meeting the football players' families, and leading the "second line!" It was an amazing day with LSU fans, the LSU Band, Golden Girls, and Senior football players! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin participated in the 100th celebration of LSU's homecoming festivities! Erin, along with her Fleur de Lis Princess, Maci, participated in the LSU Homecoming parade which ran throughout the campus. During the parade, the girls threw candy, beads, March of Dimes t-shirts & fribees, and St. Elizabeth wooden nickels. Since November is the National Adoption Month and National Prematurity Awareness Month - it was a perfect opportunity to spread awareness of both outstanding organizations! A special thanks to Mr. & Mrs. Gallagher for driving the convertible! It was a beautiful day to cheer for the Tigers and to "Spread the Good News of Adoption"... one wooden nickel at a time!!! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Congratulations to Hope Anderson, the newly crowned Miss Monroe, who will compete in Miss Louisiana 2010! Congratulations to Raven Hollins for representing the City of Monroe proudly throughout her reign! Other awards are: 1RU - Kandice Williams; 2RU - Tiffany Terrell; 3RU - Kellye Armstard. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Erin arose very early Tuesday morning to appear on 2une-In (WBRZ) Morning Show. Alongside Terry LeBlanc, the two spoke about National Adoption Month and St. Elizabeth Foundation. Erin shared her adoption story and spoke about the miracle of adoption. The open house for St. Elizabeth will be held Wednesday, Nov. 18. To see the interview, please CLICK HERE.
Congratulations to April Nelson, the newly crowned Miss Slidell, who will compete at Miss Louisiana 2010. Congratulations to Nicole Fairburn for representing the City of Slidell throughout her reign! Other awards: 1RU - Gaby Palma (Interview); 2RU - Sara Comisky (SS winner). Talent award went to April Nelson. Congratulations to everyone who competed!
Erin brought bags and clothes, shoes, purses, tote bags, and books to the Salvation Army. The staff appreciated the donation. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
This year marks the 24th anniversary of Erin's adoption day. After nearly six months of undergoing a foreign adoption, Erin arrived home in the United States on Thanksgiving Day in 1986. For this reason, Erin chose to work with St. Elizabeth Foundation during National Adoption Month to spread the good news of adoption ... one conversation at a time.
Erin was invited to participate in the 20th annual Holiday on Campus at LSU. Families from the Baton Rouge community came out to enjoy an evening full of games, magic, delicious food, a rock wall, photos with Santa, and so much more! Along with the Golden Girls, Cheerleaders, & Miss LSU, Erin signed autographs and took pictures with the children. The evening was not only about kicking off the Christmas season, it was also about giving back to those in need. Marines were on hand to collect the donated gifts for Toys for Tots. People also brought foods to donate to the Baton Rouge Food Bank. All through the evening there were door prizes that ranged from autographed LSU items, Celebration Station tickets, LSU fan items, gift cards, and much more! At the end of the evening, Erin also performed a ballet to "Spanish Dance" from the Nutcracker. It was truly a wonderful evening to spend with families from the community and give back to those in need. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin spent the weekend with family in Clarence before riding in the 83th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival Parade. The night before the parade an unusual weather phenomenon occurred - it snowed! The morning of the parade brought sunshine and nice cold weather for the parade and festivities. Erin rode with other festival queens from across the state. Miss Princess Louisiana, Mandi Ridgedell, and Miss Teen Princess Louisiana, Megan Rashall, and the reigning Miss City of Lights, Erica Durr were also in attendance. The parade was amazing with so many people there! It was a wonderful way to kick off the Christmas season in Natchitoches, LA - the City of Lights! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin traveled to Lutcher, LA, for the annual Bon Fire Festival to judge the Gumbo-Cook off. It was no ordinary event - there was bread pudding, potato salad, chicken & sausage gumbo, seafood gumbo, & melange gumbo! Although it was rainy & cold, the warm hospitality kept the festivities lively. It was a fun way to spend a chilly Friday night - traveling to learn more about the culture of Louisiana and meeting new people ... and of course the delicious food! A special thanks to Larry Roussel! FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
The rains continued to fall upon Baton Rouge all weekend - but it was no match for the Christmas spirit in downtown Baton Rouge! Erin and her Fleur de Lis Princess, Maci, participated in the 59th annual Kiwanis Christmas parade presented by Coca~Cola. "Hollywood Al and Rhinestone Al" were the grand marshals. Erin & Maci even met the king and queen of the parade, along with the royal court! Thankfully the rain held out long enough for the parade! A special thank you to Tony Carter for loaning the Baton Rouge royalty his beautiful car; and to Mr. & Mrs. Logan for being walkers along the car during the parade. FOR ALL OF THE PICTURES, PLEASE VISIT THE PHOTO GALLERY.
Erin emceed the first LA Queen's Talent Show to entertain residents of community nursing homes while raising funds for St. Jude's hospital. There were also young ladies who came out to compete for the talent competition - which was amazing! Congratulations to everyone who competed and thank you for all who participated!