Southeast Michigan woman wins Miss USA pageant

5/17/2010

LAS VEGAS - A 24-year-old brunette from Michigan recovered after nearly stumbling in her evening gown and defeated four blonde finalists and 46 other women to take the 2010 Miss USA title last night.

Rima Fakih of Dearborn won the pageant at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino after swimsuit, evening gown, and interview competitions. When asked how she felt about winning the crown, she said, "Ask me after I've had a pizza."

Miss Fakih nearly fell while finishing her walk in a long, strapless gown because of its train's length, but she made it without a spill and went on to win.

Miss Fakih replaces Miss USA 2009 Kristen Dalton and will represent the United States in the 2010 Miss Universe pageant.

She gets a one-year lease in a New York apartment with living expenses, an undisclosed salary, and health, professional, and beauty services.

Miss Oklahoma USA Morgan Elizabeth Woolard was named first runner-up, Miss Virginia USA Samantha Evelyn Casey second runner-up, Miss Colorado USA Jessica Hartman third runner-up, and Miss Maine USA Katherine Ashley Whittier, fourth runner-up.

Miss Nebraska USA Belinda Renee Wright won Miss Congeniality, roughly one week after her father was killed in a farm accident.