The 60th annual Miss USA Pageant is quickly approaching, so here is a concise guide to some essential info you need to know about the program:

The pageant began in 1952, and has been deciding American contenders for Miss Universe ever since. The show has had many high-profile hosts, including Dick Clark in the late 80’s and early 90’s! The 60th annual pageant will be broadcast live from Las Vegas in the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Beauty queens from every state in the union (and Washington D.C.) will converge on Vegas to compete for the crown. Texas is the state with the most Miss USA wins (currently at 9). Follow all the action from each contestant on WHO SAY. Click on the map to follow your favorite contestant!

The reigning Miss USA is Rima Fakih of Michigan, who was also the pageants first winner of Middle-Eastern descent.

dick clark productions was recently brought on board to executive produce the long-running program.

The 60th annual Miss USA Pageant kicks off at 9pm EST on June 19th on NBC!

Posted on June 14th, 2011