STEAMING HOT

No, no, it’s not a photo of Amparo. It’s a photo of the gracious and charitable woman who brought fame and pride to her home country of Botswana, Africa, Mpule Kwelagobe, Miss Universe 1999.

Here we see her getting her gown “steamed” in preparation for the “Evening Gown” competition. Nary a wrinkle would keep her from winning the crown. Mpule you’re the best!

PHOTO SHOOT MIX UP?

One has to wonder if these contestants from the 1985 Miss Universe Pageant got the wrong memo about what they should wear for this fashion shoot. Miss Zaire looks like she's ready to go for a jog in her official Miss Universe Jogging Suit (which would have been difficult in those shoes), while Miss Sweden looks like she's ready to go yachting for the afternoon. The hard hat she is holding still remains a mystery. No matter, they both look lovely.

EVERYONE IS BEAUTIFUL

Margarita Moran of the Philippines had this to say after winning Miss Universe 1973 in Athens, Greece: “I feel wonderful. They have made me the most beautiful. But I feel everyone is beautiful.”

MISS MOUNT MAUNGANUI

Lorraine Downes, Miss Universe 1983, won the Miss New Zealand title and a ticket to Miss Universe wearing the Miss Mount Maunganui sash. Mount Maunganui? It is New Zealand's favorite sun and fun beach destination and is located in the Bay of Plenty region of the country.

The Miss Maunganui contest is still going strong, with the 2008 edition held on New Year's Day. And in this day and age of equal opportunity, there is also a Mr. Mount Maunganui contest.

PEARLS OF WISDOM

The crown Mikimoto created in 2002 for Miss Universe has 500 diamonds, totaling nearly 30 carats, and 120 pearls. The intricate design depicts the ancient symbol of the phoenix rising, which signifies status, power and the vision of great beauty.

In 1957, Mikimoto created the crown for the U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen of Washington, DC's National Cherry Blossom Festival, an annual event celebrating Japanese-American friendship that dates back to 1912. The crown is still being used and will be handed over to a new queen on April 11, 2008.

MISTER PRIMAVERA 2011

Dean Harris almost missed it! Last week, Susana Gimenez, Argentina's most famous television host, elected Mr. Primavera 2011. He is none other than John Michael Parsley, 18, a transplanted English boy. Dean Harris thinks John Michael is worthy, but would have voted for Dario Pandiani. Now that is what you would call some delicious Argentine beef!

MISTER TENERIFE 2011

Contestant Number 9 Mister Gout de G Jabel Rodriguez Hernandez won the Mister Tenerife 2011 title last night. Runners-up in the contest were Mister Playa de las Americas Enmanuel Bautista Sanchez and Mister Fecao Achaman Hernandez Rodriguez. Tonite will see the election of Miss Tenerife 2011!

Mister Gout to G showing off his goods!

The opening number