During the first four decades of its existence, Future Farmers of America (FFA) was strictly a boys club, helping to develop the next generation of agriculturists – male agriculturists. It wasn’t until 1969 that the National FFA declared that girls were to be permitted to all chapters, including those in Sonoma County. Today, women hold half of all leadership positions in FFA.

Prior to 1969, the only way girls could participate in FFA was as a “Sweetheart.” According to Pat Pedersen (1931-2010), Sonoma County Fair’s FFA Sweetheart contest was established in the late 1950s after Wesley Jamison (1907-1989), Sonoma County Fair board member at the time, had seen such a contest in Georgia and thought Sonoma County could benefit from a similar event.

Pat Pedersen was a judge for two years before she was asked to be the director of the contest in 1964, a job she held for a number of years.

Contestants of the Sweetheart contest were judged for appearance, poise, stage presentation, and other technicalities. Winners received a cash award and took part in a number of fair activities.

According to the story that appeared in the Press Democrat on July 16, 1974, 

"Last night in the Redwood Theater, Kathy Tremari of Tomales FFA was named the 1974 FFA Sweetheart of the Sonoma County Fair. She will serve in a variety of capacities during the fair and reign over the Farmer's Day activities Sunday in the racing area.

Miss Tremari, 18, is the daughter of ALesio Termari, 5775 Bloomfield Road, Petaluma. She receives a $200 scholarship.

Chris Fisher, Santa Rosa FFA, was first runnerup. Linda THorton, Tomales, was second runnerup. Miss Fisher will get a $150 scholarship; Miss Thornton, $100."