Ms Guyana leaves for Trinidad on May 7
In another two weeks, on May 7, Guyana's entrant to the Ms Universe '99 Pageant, Ms Morvina Sobers, will depart these shores for sister CARICOM state, Trinidad. There, on May 26, she will compete with 87 other contestants for the coveted title. But, it is not yet certain whether Guyanese, including media representatives, will be able to attend the pageant. According to local franchise holder, Mr Sri Yoogeandra, he has been able to get only four tickets, two each for himself and Sobers's parents. At a media briefing at Le Meridien Pegasus where Sobers and a newly-formed committee were present, Yoogeandra explained that since January, he had requested from the Ms Universe Secretariat in Los Angeles 300 tickets. However, he was told only last week that tickets are available in Trinidad through a lottery system. He is still hoping to get at least 50 tickets which cost US$250, US$300 and US$500 each. Reigning Ms Universe, Wendy Fitzwilliam, had stressed, on her visit here earlier this year, the importance of support from delegates' countries. Fitzwilliam had also pointed out that contestants from Venezuela, Equador and Brazil, among others countries, had huge contingents including media personnel to give them the much-needed publicity. Yoogeandra Friday said Sobers' wardrobe is to consist of 48 pieces, estimated to cost about $2M. But the local franchise holder said providing such a wardrobe is a costly affair and he is appealing for assistance from the public and private sector. According to him, sponsorship is needed to help put together several aspects of the queen's wardrobe. The Ms Universe contract specifies that each contestant must travel with a wardrobe adequate for rehearsals and appearances during the pageant. It must include two cocktail and six informal dresses and clothes for rehearsals including shorts, sweats and T-Shirts, appropriate footwear including flat dance shoes for rehearsals. It specified too that at least one competition evening gown should be in the delegate's possession upon arrival in the Trinidad; a national costume; a gift symbolic of the delegate's country (Guyana) which will be presented to officials of Trinidad and US$200 for her personal use. However, Ms Ramsammy-James, member of the new committee, said because of the numerous other events which precede the grand May 26 show, it was decided that Sobers' will wardrobe will have to be much larger if she is to give a fair account of herself on behalf of her country. These events include Registration and Fittings and Welcome Dinner - May 8 and 9; Heritage Festival/Stars of the South - May 10; Caribbean Night - May 11; Charity Ball - May 12; National Gift Auction - May 14; Sugar & Energy Festival/Festival of Lights - May 15; Parade of Nations - May 16; Made in Trinidad Fashion Show - May 17; Personality Interviews - May 18,19 and 20; Presentation Show - May 21 and on-stage rehearsals - May 22. In the circumstances, companies or individuals who wish to assist through sponsorship for an evening or cocktail gown or in monetary form, can make contact with the committee. Both Yoogeandra and Ramsammy-James explained that the fabric for the dresses has already been identified. Sponsors will get a detailed breakdown of whatever aspect of the wardrobe the wish to supply. Asked about the Guyana Lottery Company which sponsored Sobers for the Ms Guyana/Universe pageant and which was on record as saying it was willing to assist her in the preparations for the bigger event, Yoogeandra said he had submitted an estimate to Lotto, but that the company opted instead to finance her expenses locally for travelling, among other things. The Chronicle learnt from a source, that a $700,000 estimate was presented to the Lotto Company. But the company subsequently issued a press release stating that the company is willing to fund sections of Sobers' wardrobe. This is distinct from the clothing Yoogeandra is required to provide. Admitting that the onus is on him to get Ms Sobers to the Ms Universe Pageant, Yoogeandra reiterated that he needed support but "in a bigger way". Sobers meanwhile remains confident that with the support she will do Guyana proud. As part of her preparation, the Guyanese queen is exposed to specialised tutoring from four University of Guyana lecturers; works out at Pro-Fitness gym daily; and attends to aspects of her platform, `Street children'. In addition, Mrs Ramsammy-James is grooming her in etiquette and courtesy. Tomorrow, Sobers is expected to spend the entire day with street children. On April 30, a grand farewell show and dance for Miss Guyana Universe and including the other contestants will be held at the `Nightflight' Disco on Pere Street. Sobers, a svelte, 20-year old Guyanese with vital statistics of 33-24-38, won the coveted crown from a field of seven, to earn her the right to represent Guyana at the Ms Universe Pageant in Trinidad. (Wendella Davidson) 
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