Napan appointed to state Addiction and Recovery post

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger announced Friday the appointment of Thomas Powers as director of the Division of Addiction and Recovery Services (DARS) within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).

Powers, 58, of Napa, has served as acting director of DARS since May 2007. He has also served as executive director of the Wolfe Center since 2006. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $144,000. Powers is a Democrat.

As part of California’s prison reform plan “we are providing rehabilitative programs to our inmates so when they have served their sentences they can return to society as law-abiding citizens,” said Schwarzenegger. “Tom’s strong background and experience with substance-abuse treatment makes him the right person to ensure California’s inmates have the right tools and knowledge they need when they return to our communities.”

“It is a great honor to serve in this important role in Gov. Schwarzenegger’s administration,” said Powers. “I will continue to work with the Governor and federal, state and local officials to provide the best tools and programs to rehabilitate and reform California’s inmates and parolees to ease their transition back into society.”/Register

Pope Valley craft fair

The Pope Valley Farm Center in Pope Valley holds a Craft Fair today, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Pope Valley. Many vendors display a variety of beautiful handmade items, something for everyone. Info, Judy at 965-0505 or Mary at 253-7591./Register

Fibromyalgia forum

The North Bay Fibromyalgia Forum presents “Tips and tools to make life easier” today, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Friends and family are welcome. Napa Valley College, 2277 Napa-Vallejo Hwy., Napa. Building 800, Room 836. Info, Dr. Rebecca E. Thompson at 255-7786./Register