Santa Maria Elks Rodeo & Parade

Today’s rodeo performance is dedicated to Natalie Bennett — a dedicated leader, volunteer, and proud member of the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo family whose passion and hard work help create the unforgettable rodeo experience we all know and love.

For Natalie, rodeo volunteering is truly a family tradition. Her children are deeply involved alongside her: Breanna helps with Mutton Bustin’, Konner volunteers with the Golden Circle of Champions and wherever mom needs an extra hand, and Lilianna proudly makes sure everyone knows exactly who her mom is. Together, they represent the spirit of family, community, and service that defines the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo.

Natalie lives by the belief that “the only way to do great work is to love what you do,” and her dedication shines through in every hour she gives to this organization and community.

Today, we proudly honor Natalie Bennett for her years of commitment, leadership, and passion for the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo and the people who make it so special.

Today’s rodeo performance is dedicated to Julian Azevedo — a proud Santa Maria native whose hard work, leadership, and commitment to serving others continue to make a lasting impact on the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo and our community.

Julian’s commitment to the Elks extends far beyond his day-to-day responsibilities. Whether helping in the Elks kitchen on Sundays, mentoring local youth as co-leader of the Old Town 4-H sheep group, or volunteering his time for organizations like the Golden Circle of Champions and the Antlers youth program, he is always willing to lend a hand and give back to the community he loves.

This year marks Julian’s third year overseeing bar operations, token booths, and coordinating all bar-related orders and deliveries for the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo — a role that requires countless hours of organization, dedication, and leadership behind the scenes to help make rodeo week a success.

Today, we proudly honor Julian Azevedo for his continued dedication, service, and unwavering commitment to the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo, the Elks Lodge, and the Santa Maria community.

Today’s rodeo performance is dedicated to Alex Posada — a leader, community champion, and longtime supporter of the traditions and events that make Santa Maria so special. Working alongside the Elk’s Recreation Foundation and Tina Tonascia, Alex helped create and support countless community events that brought people together — from the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo and Parade to Fourth of July celebrations, centennial events, and innovative community activities during the COVID-19 pandemic including Christmas in the Country, Haunted Hills, drive-through events, and drive-in movies.

Beyond his work with the city and rodeo, Alex and his wife Julie dedicated countless hours through the Santa Maria Kiwanis Club helping organize the Kiwanis Rodeo Queen candidates, raising more than $500,000 for community programs and youth scholarships.

Today, we proudly honor Alex Posada for his decades of leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to the Santa Maria community and the traditions that continue to bring us all together.