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An important part of today's (June 30th, 2003) Keti Koti celebration is annual Miss Alida contest, held in evening at Anthony Neste Stadium in Suriname's capital, Paramaribo. Although Suriname has been free from Dutch rule since 1975, a separate Miss Alida pageant is also held each year in Holland, where many former Surinamers have chosen to make their home.
The Neste Stadium is traditionally sold out, so Suriname's pageant is simultaneously televised; 2003 marked 13th anniversary of Miss Alida contest, an opportunity for ten young Creole women to celebrate their heritage by competing for title. This year's winner is 20-year-old Joan Dogojo. The major sponsor is Suriname soft drink company Fernandes, which is also official importer of Coca-Cola.
The ceremonies begin with a cultural dance presentation to warm up audience. Music provided by a live orchestra features native drums and flutes. The judges are seated at a long table just below front of stage, with placards to raise indicating their score after each contestant's presentation. At intermission,
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