The Miss USA Pageant turns 50 this year and to celebrate it has landed in nearby Gary. The organizers have promised to deliver a “new, updated” theme, focusing on modern music and fashion. Funny, we thought he whole point was ogling the promenade of shrink-wrapped pretties. But host William Shatner should keep distractions to a minimum, providing he doesn’t tear into an impromptu rendition of “Rocket Man.” See it all live Friday at Genesis Convention Center in Gary. Those who are on a budget can catch the Telecast Dress Rehearsal at 1 p.m. Friday for $10-$50 while those who want to see the real thing ($50-$250) should be in their seats at 7:45 p.m. sharp. Folks can also attend Miss USA’s Coronation Ball at 10 p.m. for $100. The dress code for all shows is “Sunday best.” 312-559-1212 or the Genesis box office, 219-882-5505.
– Elsewhere, a slightly more modest but no less supernaturally perky affair takes place Saturday when Navy Pier hosts the National Cheerleading Competition. Cheerleaders and pom teams strut their stuff from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. $10. 800-NCA-2-WIN.
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