08/23/2026
Meet the men behind the magic.
We are thrilled to introduce the Co-Chairs of the 42nd Annual Vaquero Benefit Dinner & Auction — 2018 Honored Vaquero PAUL RIGHETTI and 2024 Honored Vaquero JOE OLLA.
Paul is a fourth-generation Santa Maria rancher whose family has worked this land since 1886. A Cal Poly SLO grad, a husband, a father, and a man who has lived the Vaquero way his entire life — there is no one more fitting to help lead this evening.
Joe came to the Santa Ynez Valley from New Jersey in 1988 and has spent every year since becoming one of its most dedicated horsemen, community members, and Museum supporters. If you’ve been to the Vaquero Benefit, you already know Joe — he’s the one who makes things happen.
Together, Joe and Paul are bringing their decades of experience, deep community roots, and genuine love for this Valley to November 7th.
We couldn’t be in better hands.
Saturday, November 7, 2026 · 5–9pm
Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum & Parks-Janeway Carriage House
First Ride Tickets Available NOW 👇
https://santaynezmuseum.org/vaquero-2026/
Shout out to artist Toni Haigh of T.P. Haigh Art for the portraits!