Miss Klamath County Returns to Ragland Stage

Scholarship competition heads back to Ross Ragland Theater for the first time in over a decade, featuring 15 contestants and more than $100K in awards since 2022

Contestants competing in the 51st Annual Miss Klamath County–Miss City of Sunshine Scholarship Competition are pictured ahead of this weekend’s event at the Ross Ragland Theater. The program features 15 participants competing for titles that advance to the Miss Oregon stage, while also highlighting scholarships, mentorship, and community involvement. (Photo courtesy of Miss Klamath County Scholarship Organization / Manzanita Photography)

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — The Miss Klamath County Scholarship Competition is returning to the Ross Ragland Theater this weekend for the first time in more than a decade, bringing a long-standing community tradition back to one of the region’s most recognizable stages.

The 51st annual Miss Klamath County–Miss City of Sunshine Scholarship Competition is scheduled for Saturday, April 18 at 6:00 p.m., featuring 15 contestants between the ages of 14 and 28 competing for four titles. Winners will advance to the Miss Oregon competition in Seaside this June.

Organizers say the return to the Ragland Theater marks a meaningful milestone for the program, which has previously been held at venues including Mills Elementary School Auditorium and the Broadway Theater in Malin.

The competition will include several phases, including private interview, lifestyle and fitness, on-stage question, talent, and evening gown. In addition to the competition, the event will feature performances and appearances from participants in the “Shining Stars” mentorship program for girls ages 5 to 11.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet current titleholders, including Mya Cash and Mila Pearl, who will serve as emcees for the evening and perform the talents they showcased at the Miss America and Miss America’s Teen competitions.

According to organizers, the scholarship program has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships and in-kind support to participants since 2022, with every contestant receiving some level of financial assistance regardless of placement.

 
 

Beyond the stage, the program spans approximately 13 weeks of preparation, offering participants opportunities to develop professional skills, engage in community service initiatives, and build mentorship connections. Activities include interview training, public speaking development, talent refinement, and networking with community leaders.

Participants also attend enrichment opportunities such as a modern etiquette class hosted by Nana’s Tea Room, featuring guest speaker Katie Harman Ebner.

Organizers say the program’s mission extends far beyond a single night of competition, focusing on personal growth, education, and long-term community impact.

The Miss Klamath County–Miss City of Sunshine program recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and continues to serve as a platform for young women pursuing education, leadership, and community involvement across the region.

Tickets for Saturday’s event are $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 5 to 12. Children 5 and under are admitted free.

Cover image: klamathpageants.org

 
 

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Brian Gailey

Brian Gailey is a journalist, entrepreneur, and communications professional with more than 15 years of experience covering local news, public policy, and complex community issues across Southern Oregon and Northern California. His reporting has focused on accountability, transparency, and the real-world impacts of decisions made at the local and regional level.

Beyond journalism, Gailey brings a background in business strategy, marketing, and media consulting. He is the founder and publisher of HiveWire Daily, where he combines editorial experience with a modern, digital-first approach to local news—prioritizing accuracy, balance, and accessibility in an evolving media landscape.

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