The 2012 Miss Mississippi pageant is now in the history books. Marie Wicks came to Vicksburg last week as Miss Dixie, she now holds the title of Miss Mississippi 2012.
We talked with the 23-year-old contestant a week ago about her hopes and plans for this year's Miss Mississippi pageant.
"I've been in this pageant since my freshman year of college and it has given me a lot of scholarship money to continue my education and it has also been just an amazing journey and I've grown so much just through this experience," said Wicks.
After a week of events that included the parade of contestants and preliminary competition, Wicks made the top 10 Saturday night.
"I want just to thank the Lord. I'm just so very blessed I truly think God has a plan for my life."
The new Miss Mississippi made the top 10 twice before and was 3rd runner up to Miss Mississippi last year. She says winning this time was a dream come true.
"Oh my goodness, what I thought? I thought thank the Lord, it is still surreal. Maybe tomorrow morning when I get up I will realize, yes I am Miss Mississippi," said Wicks.
Wicks held her first news conference Sunday in Vicksburg. Preparation for the Miss America pageant is already underway.
"I intend to pour everything I've got into this job as Miss Mississippi and to aim for consistency as I go to Las Vegas and Miss America," said Wicks.
A homecoming is in the works for Ocean Springs. Wicks will make appearances around the state while preparing for the annual trunk show when supporters and fans will cast their vote for their favorite outfits for the Miss America pageant.
- Fourth runner up: Chelsea Rick - Miss Natchez Trace
- Third runner up: Chassidy Sumler - Miss Madison County
- Second runner up: Jessica Terrill - Miss Historic South
- First runner up: Jasmine Murray - Miss Spirit of the South
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