Dayana Mendoza Crowned Miss Universe

Miss Venezuela was crowned Miss Universe 2008 on Monday.The new Miss Universe, Dayana Mendoza, was once kidnapped in her homeland and says the experience taught her to remain poised under pressure.The 22-year-old brunette was given her crown, made of white and yellow gold and precious stones, by last year's winner, Riyo Mori of Japan, at the pageant finale watched by nearly a billion television viewers worldwide.
"I am excited. I cried a lot. I am really glad I made it," Mendoza, the 57th winner of the title, later told reporters.