Village Briefs

Rec. Dept. caters to novice ice

With the Winter Olympics around the corner, some young people may begin expressing an interest in ice skating. For those who do, the Saratoga Recreation Department offers Introduction to Ice Skating, a six-week course that takes place Thursday evenings from Jan. 10 to Feb. 28 at Cupertino's Vallco Ice Chalet.

Each lesson includes instruction in basic skating skills as well as practice time on the ice. All students should dress warmly and wear gloves and thick socks. Skate rental is included in the $56 class fee. For those who miss this session, another will be offered March 7 to April 11. For signup information, call 408.868.1248 or 408.868.1249.

West Valley holds dual auditions

The Theatre Arts Department at West Valley College in Saratoga will hold auditions for two upcoming plays and encourages aspiring performers--both from the college and the community--to try out for parts in Wild Oats or Harvey. Cold readings for both take place Jan. 22 and 23 at 7 p.m. in the campus theater.

Wild Oats, by James McClure, is a comedic, melodramatic take-off on the Old West based on an 18th century Restoration comedy. Harvey, by Mary Chase, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy about Elwood P. Dowd and his imaginary friend Harvey, a giant rabbit. The former play's performance run begins March 15; the latter begins April 26.

West Valley College is at 14000 Fruitvale Ave. Call 408.741.2058 for directions or further audition information.

Special Olympics seeks volunteers

The Northern California/Santa Clara County chapter of the Special Olympics is looking for additional volunteers to help its athletes enjoy various winter sports such as downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Practice continues for basketball, bowling and many other sports.

The next orientation for volunteer coaches is Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. in San Jose. No experience in sports is required, just enthusiasm and a sense of humor. All volunteers must be at least 16 years old. For more information, call 408.392.0170 or visit www.sonc.org/sccso on the Internet.

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