WINTERSPORTS -- Novice skiers and snowboarders can find bargains on ski instruction during January, which is "Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month."

Participating resorts in 34 states are offering discounts and incentives to motivate children and adults to take lessons from instructors certified by the Professional Ski Instructors Association or American Association of Snowboard Instructors.

Here are a couple of examples:

• Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park is offering a $99 three-day package (regularly $119) that includes instruction, rentals and lift tickets.
• Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area is beginning its 75th annual "Famous Free Ski School" on Jan. 10.  Nearly 500 children age 6-17 have already registered for the 10-week program.   Kids can show up for as many of the sessions as they desire. No lift ticket is required during the lesson sessions, but equipment rental is extra and lift tickets are required after the lesson session.