The crown has been passed on from Japan to Venezuela. Dayana Mendoza, Miss Venezuela 2008 was crowned Miss Universe 2008 and received her crown from predecessor Riyo Mori of Japan.


According to AP:

Stewart, 26, is a motivational speaker and former track and filed star who is working on a book called "Waiting to Win." The Houston native plans to open a character-development school for young children and has worked with autism victims in the Texas schools.

Meanwhile, Miss USA caught the attention of the audience once again after falling during the evening gown competition for the 2nd consecutive year. You may recall last year's Miss USA Rachel Smith tripped right after coming out in her black gown. Like Smith, Miss USA 2008 Crystle Stewart of Texas stood up and pretended like nothing happened.



USA is tripping a lot these days. Could this be a sign of their bad economy?

Last year: