Desert Rose Band Headlines Benefit Tonight at Coto de Caza Equestrian Center to Raise Funds for K-9 Patrol

The Desert Rose Band, not known for dogging it on records or in concert, will go to the dogs--in a manner of speaking--with a benefit show tonight at the Coto de Caza Equestrian Center in south Orange County.

Proceeds from the concert will help pay for two furry additions to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department K-9 unit. The dogs will specialize in rescue missions and in missing persons searches, according to Rich Benbow of the event’s sponsor, the Rotary Club of Coto de Caza and Trabuco Canyon.

The Desert Rose Band, known for sharp vocal harmonies and crisp instrumental interplay, was voted recently the country band of the year by the Academy of Country Music. The group’s lead singer, Chris Hillman, was a pioneer of ‘60s folk rock and country rock as a member of the Byrds and the Flying Burrito Brothers. The Desert Rose Band will perform at 8 p.m., following a 6 p.m. set by the Doo Wah Riders country band. The $20 admission price covers the music as well as a daylong Team Penning rodeo event from 8 a.m to 4 p.m.

The access road to the Equestrian Center is at the end of Santa Marguerita Parkway. Information: (714) 835-6977.