THE WEEK IN REVIEW

Techno-Teaching

With the semester winding down, Cal State Northridge this week reported success with its first series of “virtual” classes, taught via the Internet. One student’s Web page encourages critical evaluation of such technologies. “Let’s face it,” Robert Gallander says, “if you are living a virtual life, you are not living a life.”

Winners and Losers

It was hard to tell the difference this week. The erstwhile “most powerful man in Hollywood,” Michael Ovitz, announced he would resign as president of Burbank’s Walt Disney Co. after one very rocky year; of course, he’ll take $90 million with him (A1). . . . Commuters’ chances of riding a controversial trans-Valley subway further evaporated amid squabbling on the MTA board over how to spend diminishing amounts of money.

The Week Ahead

On Tuesday, the Balboa Gifted/High Ability Magnet School will receive a holiday gift that one parent said “fell from the sky at the right time of year”: a $67,000 donation. . . . The Witherbee Foundation will present the check at a performance of Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker.”

Tonight

Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra in performs at 8 at the Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale. Tickets are $12-$42. Information: (818) 243-2611.

Weather

Mostly clear skies. Highs in the 70s. Lows near 50. B12