First published in the Aug. 6 print issue of the Glendale News-Press.
Glendale woman Maria Bassil recently placed as second runner-up at the 2022 Miss Arab USA pageant in Chandler, Arizona, where she represented both California and her home nation of Lebanon. Bassil, a Glendale High School Class of 2022 alumna, whose family immigrated here in 2020, was among 15 finalists from 183 applicants for this year’s contest. Entrants were tasked with showcasing how they wanted to be ambassadors for the Arab world. Bassil, the youngest contestant, spoke of wishing to represent the needs of all Arab countries and advocate for the aid that many need.
