SPECIAL-EDUCATION SUMMER ACTIVITIES FAIR SET FOR TONIGHT REPRESENTATIVES WILL EXPLAIN RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN.

Byline: Sharon Cotal Staff Writer

CANYON COUNTRY - A summer activities fair - set to begin at 7 tonight in the library at Canyon Springs Elementary School - will provide parents with information about recreational events for children with special needs.

Margaret Cherene, director of the Special Education Local Plan Area, will introduce representatives from various agencies in the Santa Clarita Valley, who will then be available at tables set up with information about the programs they offer.

``It's for parents of children with disabilities who are looking for recreational and sports activities for their children,'' Cherene said. ``There are more and more activities becoming available all the time, but still not enough. That's why parents need to be aware of what's out there.''

The following representatives will attend the fair: Susan Coffman from the Valencia Library; Ruth Levine and Doug Botton from the department of parks and recreation; Mark Babawadaracco and Nikki Miller from the Santa Clarita Swim Club; Ted Norris from AYSO-VIP Soccer; Jeff Lulla from Fun and Fit Gymnastics; Maureen Spindt from the Special Olympics; and Robbie Hart from the Santa Clarita office of the North Los Angeles Regional Center.

While organizations like the Special Olympics focus on providing opportunities for children with disabilities, agencies like the department of parks and recreation also welcome children with special needs and are happy to make accommodations for them, Cherene said.

Child care will be provided at no charge while parents attend the fair. Canyon Springs Elementary School is located at 19059 W. Vicci St., Canyon Country. For more information, call SELPA at [phone].