SALINAS, CA, October 23, 2024 – President Steve Davis and the California Rodeo Salinas’ Officer Team welcomed new directors to the board and recognized advisory and honorary directors last Thursday evening. The Officer Team remains the same this year with Davis serving as president until October of 2025 along with 1st Vice President Bob Eggers, 2nd Vice President Tom Nielsen, 3rd Vice President Henry Dill, Secretary Tim Baldwin, and Treasurer Patty Standridge. New directors include Tim Atkins, Lupe Covarrubias-Martinez, Michelle Dominguez, and Julia Hanson-Brown. Advisory directors, directors who are stepping aside for new leadership to progress within the organization, include Ric Causley, Stan Chan, Orlando Garcia, and Mike Hitchcock. Dr. David E. Ramos was named an honorary director.
Each of these directors has contributed to the California Rodeo Salinas in unique and various ways. There are over 70 committees that volunteers serve on, which include jobs like ground preparations, maintenance and construction, sponsor hospitality, medical, and other areas that are vital to the event, spanning beyond the arena or other areas typically associated with a rodeo. Read their biographies below to learn about their roles.
Directors:
Tim Atkins began volunteering in 2010 with the Ground Preparation Committee. His most cherished moment came in 2023 when he organized an equipment parade to honor sponsors and a former Director. Tim works for USDA Wildlife Services, helping resolve wildlife conflicts for farmers and the public. A Salinas native, he enjoys watching his children participate in livestock shows and sneaks in surf sessions whenever possible.
Lupe Covarrubias-Martinez began volunteering with the California Rodeo Salinas in 2003 and officially joined the committee in 2007. She has served on various committees, including Marketing and Golden Circle of Champions, and was honored as Committee Person of the Year in 2018. Born and raised in Salinas, Lupe has two children, six grandchildren, and works as a Chronic Disease Prevention Specialist with Monterey County. She is active in the community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Salinas United Business Association and as President of the American Legion Auxiliary.
Michelle Dominguez has been a dedicated volunteer for 34 years, serving in Sponsor Hospitality for the California Rodeo Salinas. She is honored to receive this recognition and is grateful to her husband, daughters, and collaborator Cyndie for their unwavering support. Volunteering has become a family tradition, with her loved ones joining her in serving the Rodeo. Michelle also actively supports the California International Airshow, Rotary Club of Salinas Valley, and various charitable causes.
Julia Hanson-Brown has been volunteering with the California Rodeo Salinas since 1985 and currently chairs the Bar Inventory Committee. Her proudest moments involve her children, spouses, and granddaughter joining her in volunteering. Julia values the camaraderie of her “Rodeo Family” and extends gratitude to Tim, Craig, and her family for their support. A lifelong Salinas resident, she has been a realtor for 22 years and enjoys spending time with her family, attending concerts, and watching her grandchildren play sports.
Advisory Directors:
Ric Causley has been a dedicated volunteer since 1974, serving on various committees including Concessions and Parking. He was a director for over a decade and served as Secretary and Treasurer of the California Rodeo. Ric’s proudest achievement is receiving the Gold Saddleman Award for his contributions to the Rodeo. Now retired in Sonora, he enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with his family.
Stan Chan has been a volunteer with the California Rodeo Salinas since 1996, serving on the Maintenance & Construction Committee. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, he was named Committee Person of the Year in 2002 and became a director in 2006. Stan enjoys the camaraderie of his fellow volunteers and is honored to see his son Wesley follow in his footsteps as a director. He also volunteers for other community events, including the California International Airshow and the ATT Pro-Am.
Orlando Garcia has been volunteering since 1998 and became a director in 2018. As Chair of the Grandstand Committee, he is proud to have received his 25-year pin in 2023. Orlando’s favorite moment was receiving the call informing him of his director selection. Born in Visalia, he enjoys riding his Harley and is an active member of the Rodeo staff, serving in Facility Maintenance.
Mike “Hitch” Hitchcock has been a volunteer since 1996, first working in the calf pens before moving to the Timer's Stand for the past 25 years. A 5th generation Salinas native, Mike’s family has deep ties to the California Rodeo, with his great-grandfather serving as the first president. Mike remains actively involved in agriculture and enjoys time with his family, golfing, and spending time in Lake Tahoe. He is honored to transition into the role of advisory director at the Rodeo.
Honorary Director:
Dr. David E. Ramos is a board-certified emergency physician and Medical Director for the Salinas City Fire Department. A highly regarded leader at Salinas Valley Healthcare, Dr. Ramos has held numerous roles, including Chief of Staff and Associate Chair of the Emergency Department. He is a U.S. Army veteran, where he served as a Flight Surgeon and commanded medical units. Fluent in Spanish, Dr. Ramos continues to advance emergency medical care through his clinical expertise and leadership.
Photos by Mag One Media. Advisory Directors Chan and Hitchcock were not in attendance.
About California Rodeo Salinas
The 115th California Rodeo Salinas is set to take place from July 17-20, 2025. As a not-for-profit organization, the California Rodeo Association is committed to preserving and celebrating the rich traditions of the California Rodeo Salinas and the Western way of life, while fostering community involvement and cultural heritage. Through its annual rodeo and the year-round operations of the Salinas Sports Complex, the Association provides valuable support to the community and other non-profits. In 2024, these efforts generated over $796,000 for local non-profit organizations and community groups through donations, vending, and fundraising opportunities. For more information, visit www.CARodeo.com or call the California Rodeo Office at 831-775-3100.
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