By Ari Lessin
On Sept. 11, the Santa Cruz County Fair hosted a stirring ceremony to honor the fallen heroes of 9/11 and recognize the dedication of local firefighters and service members.
Organized by Tony Agredano and his team, the event blended patriotism and tradition, highlighting the deep connection between the community’s Western heritage and the remembrance of those who have served and sacrificed for the nation.
The ceremony opened with a powerful performance of the national anthem by Alex Hinman, accompanied by Suzanne Cornelius.
Several local service people were honored, each recognized for their service and commitment to the community.
From left: Garrett S, Eric Silva, Manuel Garcia, Jose Agredano, Jim Hasi, Tony A, Alex Hindman, and Suzanne Cornelius. • Photo Credit: Maria Orozco
Randy Benson, a patrol officer with 22 years of service, stood among the honorees, along with Fire Department engineer Garrett Saucedo and Battalion Chief Manuel Garcia. Eric Silva, also a Fire Department engineer, was celebrated for his contributions, while Jose Agredano, a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force, and Jim Hasi, an Armed Forces staff sergeant, were recognized for their military service
These individuals exemplified the values of courage, sacrifice, and dedication.
One of the most poignant moments of the ceremony was the arrival of an honor guard of horseback riders, made up of children from the local community.
Most of these young riders were from the Pleasant Valley Horse Club and had been participating in western riding events at the fair. As they rode in formation, proudly carrying the American flag, the connection between tradition, youth, and remembrance became clear. The children were also being taught the importance of 9/11 and the values of service and commitment.
Tony Agredano, the event’s organizer, emphasized the importance of this connection.
“When a lot of county fairs are turning to tractor pulls and monster trucks, I feel pretty great that at the Santa Cruz County Fair we are able to still have Western events that our youth can participate in,” he said.
He extended a heartfelt thank you to Pleasant Valley Horse Club for “keeping our community aware of this wonderful tradition” and for teaching the next generation about the responsibilities of caring for large animals and the commitment to keeping these traditions alive.
Dr. Casey Terribilini, a retired paramedic and a major sponsor of the youth classes, shares in this mission. Alongside Agredano and Michelle Le Clair of Pleasant Valley Horse Club, they are dedicated to maintaining the Western heritage in Santa Cruz County, ensuring that the values of hard work, responsibility, and respect for history are passed down to future generations.
This year’s 9/11 Ceremony at the fair was not just a moment of remembrance, but a celebration of community, tradition, and the young people who will carry these values forward. By integrating the remembrance of 9/11 with the traditions of western riding, the ceremony provided a unique opportunity to teach the next generation about service, sacrifice, and the importance of remembering those who protect and serve.
TOP IMAGE: Pleasant Valley Horse Club riders participate in 9/11 honor guard at Santa County Fair. • Photo Credit: Maria Orozco