Briefly

Participants in a ranger-led hike can learn all about Davis Creek, from the prehistoric plants to the area's best fishing holes at 7 p.m. Thursday as part of Washoe County's "Discover Your Parklands" guided hiking series.

Participants should meet at the overflow campground parking lot, wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Call 849-0684.

Learn the art of singing from master voice teacher

Sarah Fleming, a recitalist, opera singer, and soprano soloist with more than 500 appearances throughout Canada, Mexico and the United States, including the New York City Opera and "The Tonight Show," will share her talents and teach students in two fall Western Nevada Community College voice classes in Dayton and Minden.

The course will be offered 2:30-5:15 p.m. Fridays at WNCC Douglas. It will also be available 4-5:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Dayton High School.

In these three-credit classes, students will develop an appreciation and understanding of the art of singing, expand their knowledge of vocal literature, and learn the principles of bel canto.

Fleming is a Juilliard Music School graduate with a master's degree in music from San Diego State University. She has taught at the California Institute of the Arts, United States International University and San Diego community colleges. Her successful students include Laura Williams, the singing voice of Nala in the "Lion King."

The class is open to everyone but is directed to singers, beginning and intermediate; public school teachers; choral singers; singers preparing for auditions; high school students seeking college credit; and senior citizens who love to sing.

Cost: $184.50. The class may be audited and special discounts are available for senior citizens. Register at www.wncc.edu for the fall semester that begins Aug. 28. For information, contact WNCC Douglas at 782-2413 or Dayton High School at 246-6240.

New Web site helps kids find ways to stay active

The Food and Nutrition Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture launched a new Web site to provide parents with information to help children eat better, be more physically active, and helps them be better role models for their children.

The Eat Smart. Play Hard. Healthy Lifestyle Web site can be found at www.fns.usda.gov/eatsmartplayhardhealthylifestyle.

Brewery to hold improv kids workshop

BAC STAGE KIDS and The Brewery Arts Center present an Improv Kids workshop and shows at the Brewery Arts Center, 449 West King St.

Join in for a two-week workshop with Gerry Orton as we explore improvisational theater and learn improv games and workouts. The week will highlight two "Whose Line is it Anyway" style improv shows.

Workshop dates are Oct. 2-14. Classes for beginners and intermediates ages 10 and up will be from 4-6 p.m. Oct. 3, 5, 9, 11, 13 and at 9:30 to noon Oct. 7. Advanced (includes musical improv) ages 12 and up will be 4-6 p.m. Oct. 2, 4, 6, 10, 12 and 1-3:30 p.m. Oct. 7.

Workshop cost is $30 per participant. Show dates are Oct. 13-14 at 7 p.m. All seats are $5.

Smokey Bear's Birthday Party at library in Minden

at 6:30 p.m., Douglas County Public Library in Minden will celebrate Smokey Bear's birthday with a party at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Smokey Bear will make a special appearance at the library. Smokey Bear's birthday is Aug. 9, 1944. To celebrate the library will serve make homemade ice-cream-in-a-can. Children should bring their own toppings such as chocolate sauce, cherries and whipped cream. Please bring small clear coffee can lids (from 13-oz. coffee cans). Raley's and the library will furnish other supplies.

Children must register this morning. Call 782-9841.