BenitoLink readers are invited to celebrate San Benito County with us and make note of some of the inspired new organizations and motivated individuals who have strengthened our community over the past year.
On Saturday, April 25 we will host our first annual Press-tigious Awards at Léal Vineyard in Hollister, an evening honoring individuals who have shown a willingness to take-on leadership, to work well with others and give their time to make a measurable difference all across San Benito County. Honorees were identified through BenitoLink’s Community Vision San Benito Listening Sessions and input from the BenitoLink board and editorial team.Â
The evening begins with cocktails at Léal Vineyard in the stunning Diablo foothills near Hollister, followed by a dinner buffet and awards celebration recognizing this year’s community champions. Several auction items will be offered followed by dancing.
This is an evening to celebrate San Benito and the inspirational work our residents are doing every day to solve issues and build a better future.
2026 Press-tigious Honorees:
BenitoLink Collaborators of the Year
Listening Session participants expressed their dreams and found others with common goals. These awardees formed organizations and made substantial progress toward solving a county need or interest.
Tourism & Economic growth- Visit San Benito County
Youth- California Young Farmers and Ranchers
Arts & Culture- Pinnacle Arts Association
Newsworthy Recognition Awards: (to be announced)
Under the radar or under- recognized, these awardees have stepped up as individuals to serve a segment of the community. They were identified through the Listening Sessions and BenitoLink 2025 reporting efforts. They exemplify BenitoLink values of an open exchange of ideas, civic engagement and locals supporting locals.
- Civic Engagement Champion
- Volunteer Champions
- Committed Contributor Champion
- Youth & Education Champion
- Housing Champion
- Business Champion
- Public Information Champion
- Arts and Culture Champion
These honorees represent individuals who have a deep interest in making this a better home for all of us. Many have given substantial time to the whole with little personal benefit while bringing San Benito County to a higher level. Their work strengthens opportunities for youth, families, businesses and ultimately, our entire community.
Event Details
Saturday, April 25, 2026
4:30 PM – Cocktails with silent auction viewing
5:30 PM – Dinner and Awards
Live and Silent Auction
DJ and Dancing
Léal Vineyard Barrel Room
Hollister, California
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available.
For sponsorships or media inquiries please contact:
Leslie David lesliedavid@benitolink.com or Kris Waller kriswaller@benitolink.com
Thank you for helping us celebrate the grassroots, can-do spirit of San Benito County residents.
We need your help. Support local, nonprofit news! BenitoLink is a nonprofit news website that reports on San Benito County. Our team is committed to this community and providing essential, accurate information to our fellow residents. Producing local news is expensive, and community support keeps the news flowing. Please consider supporting BenitoLink, San Benito County’s public service nonprofit news.