SALINAS — California Rodeo Salinas President Steve Davis and the Officer Team welcomed new directors to the board and recognized advisory and honorary directors on Oct. 17.
The Officer Team remains the same this year, with Davis serving as president until October 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. 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.
Joining the board
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. He 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.
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, she 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.
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. She also actively supports the California International Airshow, Rotary Club of Salinas Valley, and various charitable causes.
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. She 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.
