Santa Clara County residents qualify to earn rebates of $300 to $500 by upgrading their wood-burning fireplaces and wood stoves to those that use cleaner natural gas. According to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District—which hopes to switch out 1,700 fireplaces and wood stoves—burning wood contributes to 30 percent of the Bay Area's wintertime air pollution. Switching to natural gas could reduce such emissions by 99 percent. The rebate offer is available while supplies last. For a list of participating dealers, visit www.sparetheair.org or call the air district at 415.749.4791.

Santa Claus helpers waiting for letters

Have a holiday wish list yet or questions to ask Santa Claus? Santa's helpers would love to hear them. The Chamber Elves will be responding to holiday letters through Dec. 19. Residents can drop off letters in large and shiny red boxes provided at four locations—the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce office and The UPS Store on Big Basin Way, as well as the Village Post Office on Saratoga Avenue and the Saratoga Main Post Office on Allendale Avenue. Mailers can give Santa and his helpers a hand by including a complete return address.

Local organization holds wreath class

The Youth and Science Institute will be holding a workshop for those interested in learning how to make wreaths. The workshop will be held on Dec. 13 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Sanborn Park. Materials will be provided, but seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is encouraged. The fee is $25 for members and $35 for nonmembers. Contact 408.358.3683 for more info or visit www.ysi-ca.org.

Residents invited to a holiday party

The Saratoga Area Senior Coordinating Council will be holding a holiday party on Dec. 14 at the Saratoga Community Center on Allendale Avenue. The event will feature a variety of food, music and prizes. A donation of $5 is encouraged for members and $10 for nonmembers. Call the center at 408.868.1257 by Dec. 8 to reserve a spot.