The Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department is encouraging youths to learn about the different facets of nature in their Junior Ranger Program, open to those ages 9 through 12. During the program, rangers will participate in a number of activities, including hikes and games. Topics that will be discussed are the duties of a ranger, the park's natural resources, wildlife and the lifestyle of the Ohlone American Indians, former inhabitants of the parks.

Rangers meet once a week for six consecutive weeks, culminating in an overnight campout. The program is free, and registration is limited to the first 20 participants. Only first-time participants are eligible to enroll. For more information and to check out which parks in the county are participating, call 408.846.8902 or 408.846.5632.


Deadline extended for city positions

The city of Saratoga is accepting applications from residents interested in filling vacant commission seats in the arts, finance, public safety and parks and recreation departments. All applications must be submitted by Aug. 20. Interested applicants must be registered voters in Saratoga and have attended at least one commission meeting prior to the interviewing process, scheduled in September. Applications are available at the city clerk's office at 13777 Fruitvale Ave. For information about commission meeting schedules, go to the city's website at www.saratoga.ca.us or contact Cathleen Boyer at 408.868.1269.


Group to discuss city's finances

The Saratoga Finance Commission will be assessing the city's performance measures in comparison with other cities and reviewing financial statements at its next meeting on July 21. The commission meets the third Monday of each month in the administrative conference room at city hall, 13777 Fruitvale Ave.


Animal agency has relocated facility

The Silicon Valley Animal Control Authority has moved to a nearby building. Its new address is 2340-A Walsh Ave. The authority can be reached at the same number at 408.261.5401.