Get the Lowdown on the Hoedown

1. The lowdown on the hoedown: We want you to know what’s ahead for Rodeo Week. On Friday, the kick-off barbecue will take place from 5-9 p.m. at Hamilton Oaks Winery. Live music will be provided by SWINGSHIFT. Hamilton Oaks will offer a special bottling of "Rodeo Red" and "Wrangler White,” while Mission Grill will supply the grub. Cost is $35 per person and includes food, valet parking and entertainment. With limited space available, reserve your spot ASAP. 949.493.4700 or info@sanjuanchamber.com. Click Here for registration form.

2. Rodeo Week, take two: Now everyone can get in on the ride. Saddle up for the first rodeo ride – a community trail ride-along San Juan Creek in celebration of the city's proud Western heritage, open space, and the 2013 RMV Rodeo & SJC Rodeo Week! The ride starts noon Sunday at Ortega Equestrian Center and costs $50 per person, which includes the ride, lunch by Bad to the Bone BBQ, and a commemorative medallion. Rental horses available for $200 and require pre-registration. This event will SELL OUT - make your reservation by calling  the chamber at 949.493.4700 or click here for registration form. 

3. Sneak peak for next week: We’ll have more events for you in Monday’s column, but just in case you want to fill your calendar, Swallow’s Inn will have country dancing with DJ Patrcik from 6:30 p.m. to midnight Monday. 

4. Are you good under pressure? Community members interested in learning how to be more prepared in the event of an emergency or natural disaster can take advantage of a beneficial program the city offers.

Applications are now available for San Juan Capistrano's next Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program that will be held on two consecutive weekends, Sept. 20-22 and Sept. 27-28.

During the free, 20-hour course, participants learn about disaster preparedness; fire suppression; disaster medical operations; light search and rescue; disaster psychology; team organization; terrorism; and disaster simulation.

The program increases disaster readiness, provides emergency skills people can use in day-to-day emergencies, enhances the bond between government and community and increases community spirit.

The program is free for San Juan Capistrano residents and businesses; $25 for non-residents.  Michael Cantor, the city's safety and emergency services manager, heads up the program.

For more information, a class schedule and application, contact Michael Cantor at 949-234-4565 ormcantor@sanjuancapistrano.org.

5. San Juan’s a town that really cooks: The Ecology Center is offering this little gem: Farm to Fork, an Adult Cooking Class.

For other happenings, check our events calendar.