Representing the state, and hopefully soon, the nation

By MIKE CHAIKEN

CTFashionMag.com

Three young women were the guests of honor on Saturday, June 30 as they prepare for the Junior Miss Galaxy and Miss Belleza Latin national pageants later this month.

Sophia Vasquez-Orozco will be competing as Little Miss Connecticut for the title of Little Miss Galaxy.

Julissa Lee Rolon will be competing as Miss Pre-Teen Connecticut for the title of Miss Pre-Teen Galaxy.

Ashley Berrios will be competing Miss Teen Connecticut to earn the title of Miss Belleza Latina.

Friends and families gathered for a pasta dinner fundraiser at the Community Cultural Center in East Hartford, Conn. to help the three girls with their expenses.

Jaidalynn Alicea, who is competing as Pre-Teen Puerto Rico at the Junior Miss Galaxy pageant, also was on hand for the send-off for her sister queens.

PHOTOS by MIKE CHAIKEN

The national pageants will be held July 11 to 15 in Orlando, Fla.