Michigan's Homecoming Queen Not in Final 10 at National Pageant But Happy With Experience

Raime Lamb didn't make the the final 10 at America's Homecoming Queen pageant that ended Tuesday at Disneyland in California, but the 2011 Hartland High School graduate says she still had a blast.

"I met the nicest people I have ever met in my life," said Lamb, who was in the competition after in April.

"It was not a disappointment at all to me. I was happy to be here."

Andrea Kaufman of Mason City High School in Iowa won the national pageant, while Rose Bragalone of South Williamsport High School in Pennsylvania won the online competition chosen by most scholarship donations raised.

Lamb, who traveled to the contest with her parents, likely finished in the top 10 in the online competition either at fifth or sixth. Final results are still being tabulated since online voting only ended a few days ago.

"(Raime) seem to be a real outgoing, go-getter girl,"  said RoseAnn Hester, a pagaent official.

During the weekend, the contestants participated in several events. They included an evening gown competition, judges' interview and submitting an essay. In addition, they had to give a two-minute speech about their state.

Lamb said she enjoyed an activity where contestants danced to outdated songs — a traditional part of the competition held each year. She also said she hopes to continue the friendships she started during the contest, such as with Haley Sue Yelton of Tennessee.

"She really a sweetheart," Lamb said. "She's beautiful. She's inspiring."

Lamb also has been blogging about her experience for Hartland Patch and is planning one reflecting on the contest during her trip home Wednesday. Click for her previous posts.

The pageant is a nonprofit organization that's been holding the event since 1981 and awards scholarships to the finalists based on how they finish.

In previous years, the awards could range from $200 to $1,500, but this year the amounts are expected to be higher based on the new online donations.

Laurie Bauernschmitt, Lamb's aunt who lives in Torrance, CA, and attended the event with her husband, said the family is proud of Raime not only because of the pageant but because of her high grades and motivation to succeed at college. Lamb intends to attend Michigan State University this fall.

"We're very proud of her and her achievement over the last four years," Bauernschmitt said.

She said the attending the event also was special to watch.

"It was better than going to the Oscars," she said. "It was amazing. All the girls were very nice and so happy to be there among each other."