The town of Russell Springs, Ky., honored its newest celebrity on Saturday, June 10. Tara Elizabeth Conner, recently crowned Miss USA at the annual pageant, was honored with a parade through downtown Russell Springs featuring the Southwind percussion section. This was the first opportunity Conner has had to visit her home town since being crowned Miss USA 2006 on April 27 in Baltimore, Md. Conner is the first Miss Kentucky contestant to be crowned Miss USA in the 51-year history of the pageant. She will soon begin preparing for the Miss Universe pageant, to be held July 23 in Los Angeles, Calif.

Members of the Southwind drum line with Miss USA
After the parade, the Southwind percussion section was treated to a picnic with Miss USA and local supporters. Conner also signed autographs for each member and thanked the group for a great performance. Southwind wishes Ms. Conner the best of luck as she competes in the Miss Universe Pageant in July.