Oops! Julie Hayek is NOT the first Arab-American Miss USA -- she's Czech-Norwegian

We need to correct the record on an item we ran the other day that said actress Julie Hayek was the first Arab-American Miss USA, having won the title in 1983.

The issue came up after Rima Fakih, of Dearborn, Mich., who is Lebanese-American, won the title last weekend.

In response to a reader's note and a mite too little research on our part, we got it wrong. We finally tracked down Hayek, who was also first runner-up for Miss Universe and played roles in Dallas and Twin Peaks.

She sent us this gracious note:

I have received a lot of e-mails lately from reporters regarding my last name and heritage. (One person) was kind enough to e-mail me regarding this and share that he found the information on Wikipedia. I am trying to correct this, and I appreciate any help in this matter.

I am of Czech decent. My father is from Ohio. He is half Czech and half German. Also, I'm 5'10" and have light green eyes, light skin, and nordic features. (My mother is half Norwegian and half Scottish- Irish- English. I am a northern European mutt.)

The confusion stems from the fact that "Hayek" is both a popular name in Czechoslovakia and in Lebanon.

When I won back in '83 a reporter must have thought "Hayek" sounds like a Lebanese name, therefore I must be Lebanese... without checking the facts. Unfortunately with one incorrect report on Wikipedia, other reporters don't know the truth and rely on this as being the truth. So I thank you in any help in correcting this situation.

I am happy for the new Miss USA. I think she is indeed the first American Arab to win ... I don't want to steal her spotlight ... especially since I am not Arabic.

I am very happy for Rima Fakih's success and think she is a lovely woman. I am pleased that people are embracing her as a beautiful American, regardless of her ethniticity or faith.

Because of this confusion, I have been receiving many kind e-mails from the Arabic community. I am touched by their warmth and kindness. Thank you.... maybe I can be an honorary member. :)

I wish Rima all the success in the world. (Maybe she will be the one to bring about "World Peace"....tee hee :) )

(Posted by Doug Stanglin)