The California Mid-State Fair is getting ready to crown its next ambassador, as six young women from across San Luis Obispo County are preparing to take the stage for the Miss California Mid-State Fair Scholarship Pageant.
The pageant will take place on Wednesday, July 15, at 6 p.m. on the 805 Frontier Stage at the Paso Robles Event Center, kicking off this year's California Mid-State Fair. More than just a competition, the annual scholarship pageant celebrates leadership, community service, academic achievement, and the unique talents of young women who are making a difference in their communities.
For Pageant Director Courtney Lucas, this year's event is especially meaningful.
"For as long as I can remember, this pageant has been a part of my life. From helping behind the scenes as a child to now serving as Pageant Director, this moment is truly full circle," Courtney said. "I am honored and excited to introduce the incredible young women competing this year and to celebrate all they have accomplished."
Contestants will compete in interview, talent, evening gown, and public speaking categories. Each participant has also developed a proposal aimed at enhancing the California Mid-State Fair experience while giving back to the community.
Let's meet the 2026 contestants:
Gabby Bodenshot | Paso Robles
A 20-year-old junior at Oklahoma State University, Gabby Bodenshot is deeply involved in agriculture, leadership, and campus life. Her activities include Kappa Alpha Theta, the Block & Bridle Club, Horticulture Club, and Livestock Judging Club. Among her accomplishments are earning the prestigious FFA American Degree and California Floral Certification.
For her talent, Bodenshot will create a fresh floral arrangement while explaining key principles of floral design. Her fair proposal would introduce an inclusive livestock experience on Kids' Day, giving children with special needs opportunities to safely interact with agricultural animals through hands-on activities.
Sara Espinoza | San Miguel
Fresh off her graduation from Paso Robles High School, 17-year-old Sara Espinoza enjoys sketching, spending time outdoors with her dogs, and discovering new music. During high school, she participated in theater, track and field, and the Wilderness Club.
Espinoza's talent will feature a speed painting of Michael Jackson. Her proposal would bring back pony rides and a petting zoo for a nostalgia-themed Kids' Day, creating new family memories while honoring favorite fair traditions from years past.
JoDee Jones | Templeton
At 21 years old, JoDee Jones balances her studies at Cuesta College with community service and creative pursuits. She volunteers with the Atascadero Kiwanis Club and Angels Bearing Gifts, an organization that supports adults with special needs throughout San Luis Obispo County.
Jones will perform "Summer" by Joe Hisaishi on piano for her talent presentation. Her proposal focuses on increasing participation in the Fair's Fine Arts and Special Stars exhibits through school outreach, social media promotion, and interactive art activities for children and families.
Kahlea Ramos | Templeton
This fall, 18-year-old Kahlea Ramos will begin her college journey at the University of Tennessee. A dedicated student and leader, she has participated in FFA, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Templeton Sheriff's Explorers, Templeton Rotary Club, and cheerleading. She is also a three-time All-American Cheerleader and Scholar-Athlete Award recipient.
Ramos will present a monologue titled "When I Was Little" for the talent competition. Her proposal seeks to improve the fair experience by implementing a secure age-verification stamp system that would streamline alcohol purchases while enhancing safety for vendors and guests.
Iris Ratzat | Cayucos
Cuesta College sophomore Iris Ratzat brings a unique mix of athleticism, creativity, and confidence to the competition. A former varsity cheer captain, Homecoming Queen, and honor roll student, she enjoys weightlifting, hiking, baking, and spending time with family and friends.
Her talent promises to be one of the evening's most memorable performances, combining fire-eating techniques with aerobic dance choreography set to Irene Cara's classic hit "Fame." Her proposal focuses on sun safety during Senior Day, providing sunscreen, sunglasses, and educational resources to help fairgoers stay healthy and protected.
Jaklyn Woodland | Paso Robles
Eighteen-year-old Jaklyn Woodland will attend Texas Tech University this fall and has built an impressive resume through dance, leadership, and education. She has spent years competing and teaching dance while serving as a Fellowship of Christian Athletes leader and PRHS Link Crew leader.
Woodland's talent presentation will feature a lyrical dance performance to "Carolina." Her proposal would create a free Kids' Day Dance Party, offering interactive lessons and performances that encourage confidence, creativity, physical activity, and family participation.
The Miss California Mid-State Fair Scholarship Pageant has long been a cherished fair tradition, recognizing young women who exemplify leadership, service, and a commitment to their communities. The young woman crowned queen, along with her court, will represent the California Mid-State Fair throughout its 12-day run and at community events throughout the year.
Admission to the pageant is included with Fair admission, making it a wonderful opportunity to support these remarkable young women as they showcase their talents, share their ideas, and compete for the 2026 crown.
Feature Image: From Left: Jaklyn Woodland, Kahlea Ramos, Iris Ratzat, Sara Espinoza, JoDee Jones, and Gabby Bodenshot. Photo by Kellee Jean Photography
