Community briefs

Spring registration for all Western Nevada Community College campuses and learning centers is going on now for classes, which begin Jan. 22. Financial assistance is available. New students must complete a short application form, available in the WNCC class schedule, on the Web site, or at campuses and education centers. After submitting the application, students are generally able to register for classes within 48 hours. Go to www.wncc.edu, or contact your local campus or learning center.

Carson City

Family dance held Sunday

Pioneer Family Dance contra dance will hold its annual New Years Eve Dance from 8 p.m. to midnight Sunday at the Brewery Arts Center Ballroom. Cost is $15 for adults, $12 in advance at www.nevadamusic.com. Children are $6. For information, call 883-9351.

Hike along RR grade scheduled for Saturday

There will be a hike to trace part of the railroad grades in Carson River Canyon for the Carson City Senior Citizens Center on Saturday. Weather and snow conditions will cancel the hikes. Hikers do not need to be a member of the senior center, or even be a senior, to participate in this hike, but must be experienced and fit. Distance is roughly 10 miles, primarily along the Carson River, and partially off trail. Elevation gain is under 500 feet. No dogs allowed. Sign up at least two days prior to the hike by calling 530-2935.

Nevada Singles to hold end-of-year festivities

Nevada Singles will be holding a potluck, poker and bingo party at 5 p.m. Sunday. There will also be a New Years Eve party at 8 p.m. Sunday. Snacks and beverages are needed. Those interested in attending either event should call 882-0504 for info and directions.

Children's Museum cancels New Year's Ball

The Children's Museum of Northern Nevada has canceled it's planned Teen New Year's Ball due to lack of interest. For information, contact the museum at 884-2226.

Virginia City

Piper Opera House to hold New Year's Eve party

Visitors are invited to spend the last evening of 2006 within the historic walls of Piper's Opera House with lights and music.

Dance to the Buck & Bob Show (including Bobby Kittle of the Chix-C-Dicks and Stogie, a Texas tenor sax who is a two-time Country Swing Hall of Famer), and sample John Piper's Punch. There will be an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight. Doors will open at 8 p.m., and the music will begin at 9. Admission is $25 per couple, $15 for singles, and children under the age of 12 are free with an adult. Call 847-0433, or (866) 422-1956 for reservations.

Reno

Washoe County RTC offers free rides home

In an effort to curb drinking and driving, RTC in Washoe County is offering free service on 17 of it's most popular routes from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. New Year's Eve.

This service is only available within the Reno area. Call 348-RIDE.