Miss USA crowned in Baton Rouge

The new Miss USA Olivia Jordan formerly Miss Tulsa was crowned recently at the Baton Rouge River Center during the Miss USA Pageant on July 12. It's the first time Miss Tulsa has won the coveted title. The 51 contestants spent nearly two weeks in the Capital City enjoying our food, culture, and our good ole Southern hospitality. All the ladies said they definitely wanted to come back and visit. The crew enjoyed dinners at Sullivan's  Mestizo's, and Ruffino's as well as tours of the Atchafalaya and other attractions. The ladies were all so gracious and so much fun. I really enjoyed getting to know them. Kudos to the Mayor Kip Holden, Visit Baton Rouge, and the Miss Universe organization for a job well done! I want to see them back next year!

New hotel opens in downtown Baton Rouge

There's a new addition to the downtown landscape.  The Holiday Inn Express hotel recently held its grand opening. Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden, other elected officials, and business and community leaders attended. The three-story boutique hotel is located on North Boulevard and St. Ferdinand.  It features 88 rooms, a fitness center, an executive boardroom and meeting room, and a business center. Check it out. It's really nice!

So excited to cover the Miss USA Pageant once again this year and so glad they're back in town. The pageant will be held Sunday July 12 at the Baton Rouge River Center, but the ladies are in town now seeing all the sights. My Scene TV caught up with them at Mestizo's restaurant. Check out my interviews here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWd6beC1lu0