Third-graders from two counties and a big handful of elementary schools will descend on the Elks Unocal Event Center May 30 to see something nobody else will get to see: the Minetti Mini Rodeo.
The event kicks off the big rodeo show, which runs from May 30 through June 2. The Mini Rodeo is specially geared for the third-grade crowd and fully sponsored by Elks Lodge 1538 in Santa Maria.
While a lucky few students from other grades will get to attend, it’s something Santa Maria-Bonita spokesperson Maggie White said jumps right into the pathway of third-grade curriculum. Third-grade students focus their learning on community—and in Santa Maria, the Elks Rodeo is a yearly community event.
“It’s a really great way to introduce kids to a Santa Maria tradition,” White said. “For many of the kids, from the Santa Maria-Bonita district and many of the other districts, it’s the first time they’ve seen a rodeo.”
Barrel racing, calf roping, and mutton busting are just a few of the events kids from toddling age to high school and professionals will perform for the more than 6,500 students and chaperones who will attend from schools as far away as Shell Beach and Gaviota.
Students get bused to and from the event for free because of funds raised by the Elks all year long. It’s the 10th annual Mini Rodeo since the Elks brought it back to life after a several-year hiatus.
This year’s transportation budget is still looking a little thin, and rodeo organizer Tina Tonascia said the Mini Rodeo is looking for additional bus sponsors. To donate or find out more about sponsorship information, contact Tonascia at 925-4125 or tina@elksrec.com.
This article appears in May 23-30, 2013.