A Green River girl recently took third place in a national pageant contest.
In August, Jaylene Gallegos, 7, of Green River, was crowned Wyoming's Mini Miss All American Girl.
Mercedes Montano, Gallegos mother, said her daughter has always enjoyed the attention she receives while on stage.
"She's been in pageants since she was six-months old," Montano said. "She loves them."
Montano said her daughter really enjoys meeting and making new friends at the pageants she attends.
Even though Montano has competed in numerous pageants, this is her first state title.
"She wanted to go for that state title," Montano said.
After receiving her state title, she started preparing for her trip to the national competition in Las Vegas.
"She is the first person who has represented Wyoming at nationals," Montano said.
During the national competition, Gallegos competed against 10 other state-title holders, in personality, introduction, casual wear and party wear.
For the introductory portion of the competition, the participants are required to talk about themselves on stage. It is usually a short paragraph.
"They want to see how good she talks on the stage," Montano said.
After the competition, the winners were announced. Gallegos took third overall; and she also did the best in the introduction and talent categories.
Montano is proud of her daughter; and her third-place finish. She said Gallegos was competing against girls who competed in way more pageants than her daughter had.
More than crowns
Before nationals, Gallegos was required to fundraise for autism awareness, which is what the pageant prides itself on. In fact, most of the money raised at the competition is donated to autism awareness organizations. She hosted a raffle for two baskets, a Monster High basket and red can hair products basket. Gallegos also sold water during Flaming Gorge Days to raise money for the Las Vegas trip.
One of her requirements is to participate in an Autism Awareness Walk. The closest one will take place in Utah, Montano said.
As far as appearances, she can participate in as many of them as she wants. Montano said her daughter wanted to thank her family and friends for all their support and donations.
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