A vibrant crowd of approximately 1,400 people filled the Hotel Kingston lounge on Friday night to witness the coronation of Charmaine Munroe, an operator from Central Exchange, as Miss Jamaica Telephone Company for 1970-71. The beauty contest was the focal point of the company’s annual staff party, featuring 15 contestants from exchanges across the island.

PUBLISHED MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1970

Crowning of Miss Jamaica Telephone Co. highlights Staff party

AN ESTIMATED crowd of 1,400 persons packed to capacity the lounge of Hotel Kingston on Friday night to see the crowning of Charmaine Munroe, an operator from Central Exchange, as Miss Jamaica Telephone Company for 1970-71.

The beauty contest and the coronation marked the high point of the company’s annual staff party; and the evening of fun was launched, when emcee Adrian Robinson called on stage the 15 contestants, from exchanges all over the island.  They paraded individually, once before the audience, then altogether for the benefit of the judges.

While all contestants were in placings, top prizes were taken by Audrey Lagore, third place winner, Marilyn Sanguinetti second, and Miss Jamaica Telephone Company, Charmaine Munroe, who was crowned and sashed by Miss Jamaica 1970, Betty Ann Lindo.

Charmaine, sporting the popular “soul” haldo, weighs 136 lb., is 5 feet 11 inches tall, and measures, 35-24-40, She wore a blue, baby doll mini dress, with nipped in gathered waistline.  She received as her major prizes a trip to New York, compliments of Continental Telephone Corporation, one stove and a cylinder of Tropigas, and a cheque for $25 from Issa Bros.

Second place winner, Marilyn Sanguinetti, received as her main prize a trip to Miami with hotel accommodation, by Martin’s Travel Service, and Audrey Lagore, an electric lawn mower from Abdulla C. Marzouca, among other prizes.

Miss Jamaica Telephone Company’s first function was to hand a replica cup to last year’s queen, Ena Duncan.  Following this, the company’s managing director, Mr Malcolm Holmes, moved a special vote of thanks to all who had participated.

This heralded in the dancing section of the evening and although guests could find very little space in which to move everyone swung to the sounds of Byron Lee and the Dragonaires.

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