Eds: APNewsNow.

AP Photo planned Williston, N.D. (AP) Katie Ralston of Carrington is the new Miss North Dakota.

Ralston entered the Saturday night competition as Miss Red River Valley. She was among 21 women vying to be Miss North Dakota as the state pageant marked its 60th year.

Ralston is no stranger to the pageant. She was the second runner-up last June to Tessie Jones of West Fargo, who used her year as Miss North Dakota to speak to students about suicide prevention.

Jaci Stofferahn of Fargo was the first runner-up this year.

Information from: Williston Herald, http://www.willistonherald.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-13-09 2323CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list