Isn’t She Lovely?

It was 1994 when the Nancy Kerrigan/Tonya Harding scandal showed the world that the seemingly lily-white sport of figure skating was really no safer than a night at Fight Club. And just a couple of months ago, Ingrid Marie Rivera, Miss Puerto Rico Universe, had to make a quick change after saboteurs allegedly pepper-sprayed her evening gown. Let’s hope the 2008 Miss Miami Scholarship Pageant doesn’t have any itchy beauties filing complaints. Tonight at 7 p.m., dozens of Miamians ages 17 to 24 will compete for the crown and bragging rights.

They’ll have to go through the usual paces of the swimwear and evening gown competitions, but more than tight buns are required here. The winner will also have to adopt a social program she believes in, as well as excel in talent and interview rounds, proving to the panel of judges there is a brain beneath that intricate up-do. The pageant begins at 4 p.m. at the Alper Jewish Community Center Theater. Tickets cost $15 and can be purchased at the door.
Sun., Jan. 13, 4 p.m., 2008