- A unique opportunity for the young ladies of Plumas and Sierra Counties has returned. The PSCF Foundation and the Plumas Sierra County Fair are extending an invitation to those girls from Plumas and Sierra Counties, between the ages of 16 and 20 to apply to compete in the 2022 Sweetheart of the Mountains Scholarship Competition. Since its re-instatement, the competition has generated nearly $25,000 in scholarships for those that have competed for the title.
With roots going back over 50 years, the Sweetheart of the Mountains has evolved from a beauty pageant to the current scholarship program. After a year break due to the Dixie Fire, organizers decided it would be appropriate to center the title more on a demonstration of the competitor’s ability to communicate and what she stands for. Rather than a live performance involving a talent and live responses to questions, this year’s applicants will be asked to write an essay on the topic of “Why are small county fairs critical to the communities they serve?” They must also complete an application and be interviewed by the selection committee. The fundraising portion of the competition has also been eliminated this year.
The 2022 Sweetheart of the Mountains will be announced at the 2022 Plumas County Picnic; Saturday, June 11. The winner will receive a $500 scholarship and a First Runner Up will receive $250. Recipients will still be required to carry out the duties of the position, including greeting visitors at the 2022 Plumas Sierra County Fair, and representing the fair at various events.
The current title holder is Zaya White who is attending college remotely from her home in Beckwourth. First Runner Up Chyanne Morrison is attending college in Idaho.
The deadline for returning applications is May 13, 2022.
Applications can be found in each of the high schools. They are also available on the Fair website at www.plumas-sierracountyfair.net, and the Fair office.
