Education

Elks scholarships

For the academic year 2008-09, the California-Hawaii Elks Major Project, Inc. Board of Trustees offer more than $40,000 in undergraduate educational scholarships. The scholarship is a financial needs-based and academic use award intended for undergrad work at a licensed vocational school, accredited community college, or four-year college. Funds cover academic expenses including tuition, books, lab fees and on-campus room and board only. Individuals must be U.S. citizens and California residents, have a physical, neurological, visual or hearing impairment and/or speech language disorder and be a high school senior, high school graduate or have passed the GED exam or CHSPE exam. Applications available at www.chea-elks.org. Applications must be postmarked on or before March 15, 2008, and received in the office of the California-Hawaii Elks Major Project in Fresno.

Rotary scholarship

Rotary International, District 5130, announces the availability of a one-year Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship for qualified candidates. The scholarship for the year 2009-2010 provides for a one-year academic study in a foreign country (usually nine months), assigned by the trustees of the Rotary Foundation. Applicants must have completed at least two years of university or college course work. This scholarship provides a flat grant of $24,000. This funding is intended to defray the cost of round-trip transportation, fees, room and board, and educational supplies. Applications must be made through a local Rotary club. Interested parties should contact their local club or call 224-8081. Check on the Web site, www.rotary.org, for more information.

Art in the Library

“Secret Corners of the Mind” is a mixed-media painting exhibit by artist Sanda Manuila at the Napa City-County library through Dec. 29. “Secret Corners” aims to seize the paradox of the union of opposites, revealing two conflicting perspectives, one based on a rational view of reality and the other on the acceptance of the unusual. The Art in the Library Program is a juried exhibit with artists competing using varying mediums. 580 Coombs St., Napa. Info, 963-4780 or www.sandamanuila.com

Child abuse prevention education

The Child Abuse Prevention & Empowerment and Rape Prevention Education programs of the Volunteer Center of Napa Valley begin training from Jan. 3-27. CAPE educates the community about child abuse and sexual victimization. Their goal is to empower future generations and give them the education and strength they need to fight against abuse. This specialized training program involves 20 hours of education specific to the needs of children and teenagers. For those interested in being a Sexual Assault Victims Advocate, this training counts as the first 20 hours toward that certification. Different roles are available to the CAPE/RPE volunteer. The opportunities include role-playing presentations to elementary school students, speaking to a group of high school students, organizing fundraisers, creating PowerPoint presentations, and creating new ways to present prevention information to the community. Info, Jaclyn Coleman at 252-6222 ext. 218.

CyberMill Open House

The CyberMill Technology Center holds an Open House for an after-school program for kids nine and up. Jan. 7-11, 3-6 p.m. 3299 Claremont Way, Napa. Info, 258-8884.

ROP classes

The Napa County Regional Occupational Program, operating under the Napa County Office of Education, announces an Introduction to Residential Plumbing course and Introduction to Residential Electrical course beginning the week of Jan. 8. Courses can be taken one at a time or both at once. Employers in the construction industry will find this course an excellent opportunity to upgrade their employees’ existing skills. Homeowners may learn how to do their own home repairs. For the plumbing course, the curriculum covers an introduction to drain, waste, vent, supply (water and gas) and finish plumbing. The electrical course covers introduction to sub-panels, wiring layout, box make-up, fixtures and appliances. Each course runs seven weeks. Intro to Plumbing will be held Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:30-7 p.m. Intro to Electrical will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30-7 p.m. $25 non-refundable registration fee per course; this fee is waived for students enrolled in high school. Info, 253-6830.

Workforce Development at Ya-Ka-Ama

Ya-Ka-Ama serves native people and veterans who reside in Sonoma, Napa, Marin, Mendocino and Lake counties; and has recently reactivated its Workforce Investment Act program. For Native Americans or Veterans who are unemployed, underemployed or contemplating a career change, Ya-Ka-Ama will actively help to find a job in their field of interest. Evening appointments are available for people who work days, as are localized appointments for people who live out of the immediate area. Conversely, businesses looking for sincere, well-trained workers and have or want to develop an intern, on-the-job training, or helper program, call Sylvia at 887-1541.

Bow wow for Books

In this program, designed for ages 7 to 12, children can read to a gentle, certified therapy dog provided by Paws for Healing. All dogs and handlers are part of a trained Reading Education Assistance Dogs team. This program is held Mondays, 5:30-7:45 p.m.; Wednesdays, 3:45-4:45 p.m.; Fridays, 3-5:15 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.. to 1 p.m.; and Sundays, 4-5 p.m. in the Children’s Room of the Napa Main Library. On arrival, children may sign up for a 15-minute session to read to a furry friend. Children are encouraged to bring their favorite book, or choose one at the library. Children under the age of 7 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Free. 580 Coombs St., Napa. Info, Children’s Desk at 253-4070.

Napa Valley Music Associates

NVMA has open registration for interested children, teens and adults for year-round music lessons of all levels in piano, voice, violin, viola, cello, guitar, harp, flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, drums, percussion, trumpet, trombone, tuba and French horn. Also, String Chamber Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, Woodwind Ensemble and Composing Together Programs are offered for interested students. Family drumming circles are offered monthly by a professional percussionist. Info, 252-8671, 322-8402 or e-mail info@napavalleymusic associates.org.

Health

The Eye Works

The Eye Works in downtown Napa offers free eye screenings for children 5 to 12 years old every Tuesday in December from 2-5 p.m. The screenings are on a first-come first-serve basis and each child must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. 1006 Main St., Napa. For appointments, questions and information, call Dr. Sultan at 254-2020 or e-mail him at doc@the-eyeworks.com.

Diabetes wellness

The diabetes wellness program education classes and support groups are as follows: diabetes classes begin Jan. 2 and Jan. 8; a pre-diabetes class on Jan. 3; an adult support group meets on Jan. 9; a blood glucose meter class on Jan. 9 and Jan. 23 at 10 a.m.; and a parents of children with diabetes support group on Jan. 10. Registration required for classes. Info, 252-4411, ext. 2391.

Zumba

Dorothy J. Lipton, AFAA personal trainer, presents Zumba, a Latin dance-based workout with hip hop for a fun workout. DJ Lipton tells all and breaks some moves in a demo class! Jan. 5, noon to 1 p.m., at Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy, 4020 Bel Aire Plaza, Napa. Info, 253-0970.

Belly dancing classes

Shahreena, who formerly taught belly dancing classes through Napa Parks and Rec, starts her new class on Jan. 8, 7-8:30 p.m. Exercise in a fun, nurturing environment. Try one class for free, at Academy of Danse, 1123 Jordan Lane, Napa. Eight weeks, $80 pre-registration; $96 in-class registration, if space available. Info, Shahreena at 255-4340. Gift certificates available.

Halau Ha’a Kea o Kinohi

Join the Calistoga Community Center for an introduction to the art of Hawaiian Hula dancing. You will be introduced to hula basics, dances in the hula auana style, and prayer song (oli). 1307 Washington St., Calistoga. Info, 272-0972.

Challenging behaviors

This group, offered by ParentsCAN, provides strategies and insight for dealing with your behaviorally challenging child. The group meets the second and fourth Tuesdays each month, 6:30-8 p.m. at the ParentsCAN resource center, 3299 Claremont Way, Ste. 3, Napa. Info, 253-7444 or www.parentscan.org

Overeaters Anonymous

This group for those who are overweight and/or eat too much meets Sundays, 5-6 p.m., at Hillside Christian Center, 100 Anderson Road, Napa. Info, Richard at 226-2775 or Karen at 996-4746.

IMC Foundation

The Integrative Medical Clinic Foundation hosts a free educational series, “Hot Topics in Health,” every second and fourth Tuesday from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Integrative Medical Clinic. Info and pre-registration, 284-9225.

Support groups

for caregivers

A support group for caregivers co-sponsored by Adult Day Services of Napa Valley and Queen of the Valley Medial Center meets Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m., and the first and third Thursdays, 1-3 p.m., at 414 South Jefferson St., Napa. Info, Celine Regalia at 258-9087.

Sexual assault

support group

This support group helps reduce a sense of isolation, rebuild trust, enable mutual growth and find ways to heal. Drop-ins welcome. Second and fourth Thursday every month, 6-7:30 p.m., at the Volunteer Center, 1820 Jefferson St., Napa. Info, 252-6222, ext. 225.

Arthritis support group

The Springs of Napa host the Napa Arthritis Support Group on the last Thursdays of the month, 6:30 p.m., in the activity room. 3460 Villa Lane. Info, Judy at 224-7855.

Free art classes

for patients

Free art classes are open to patients of Queen of the Valley diagnosed with cancer or who are chronically ill. These classes promote healing, well-being, therapy and relaxation every Friday, 10 a.m. to noon. All materials are supplied. Experience is not needed. Classes are taught by Joe Roter, Master Therapy Artist. Please call Yolanda at 251-2003 to reserve your spot.

Volunteer/fundraisers

Habitat for Humanity

The Solano-Napa Habitat for Humanity affiliate, in partnership with Covenant Presbyterian Church, is planning a fundraising event to support a program called House in a Box. This program provides homes for areas ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. Excess funds go toward homes in Napa. Volunteers are needed to help coordinate and execute the event, chair the planning committees, and donate funds, materials and silent auction items. A meeting takes place on Jan. 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m., to officially kick off the fundraiser. The program will be explained in detail and questions about local projects in Napa will be answered. Leading the meeting will be honorary chair, Mayor Jill Techel. Napa City Library, 580 Coombs St., Napa. Info, Diane Padoven at dpadoven@solano napahabitat.org

Volunteer for

cancer society

Road to Recovery is an American Cancer Society program that provides free rides for cancer patients who are unable to get to treatment. Volunteer drivers need three things: a driver’s license, a car and a compassionate heart. Program training is provided via a toll-free conference call. If you can spare a few hours a month to drive patients, please call the American Cancer Society at 800-ACS-2345.

CASA volunteers needed

Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers are needed to work with children who are dependents of the court as a result of having been abused, neglected or abandoned. Volunteers undergo a thorough background and screening process and complete approximately 40 hours of initial training. Trained CASA volunteers meet and work with dedicated professionals working to help children and families reunify. People with bilingual and/or bicultural skills and experience are particularly needed. Info, 257-2272 or

jdiverde@napacasa.org.

Clubs/Meetings

Napa Senior Citizens Inc.

Napa Senior Citizens Incorporated host a Christmas dinner for seniors 50 years or older who would like to be with others and not make a big meal for themselves, or a few family members. Families are welcome. Bring a friend, meet your friends or make new ones. Bring either a starch, a vegetable, a salad, a dessert or bread. Don’t forget your table service including a plate, cup, fork, knife and spoon. Turkey, ham, coffee and tea is provided. Info, 226-6317.

Widowed Persons Association

Join a chapter with other widows and widowers for support, friendship and activities. Come for breakfast Tuesdays, 8 a.m., at Bakers Square. Info, Abbey at 224-8716.

Toastmasters

Napa Toastmasters offers a nurturing environment in which to improve communication and leadership skills without the pressure of a classroom. Meetings are held Wednesday evenings, 7 p.m. at The Springs of Napa, 3460 Villa Lane, Napa. Info, Nancy at 224-0740.

Special needs dance

A Chance Too, Dance, gives parents and their children born with physical, emotional, mental and developmental needs a chance to dance Thursdays, 1:15-2 p.m. Napa Valley Dance Center, 950 Pearl St., Napa. Info, Beth Yarnall at 332-8023 or e-mail: achancetoo@yahoo.com.

Nature/Recreation

Open House

Sunrise Horse Rescue is a nonprofit foundation in St. Helena whose mission is to rescue abused and neglected horses in Napa and Sonoma counties, as well as provide students of all ages with life-enhancing skills derived from riding and horsemanship. Donations can be made through the mail or online at www.sunrisehorserescue.org. The third annual “Say Thanks To The Animal Kingdom” event is Dec. 24 from noon to 2 p.m. The public is invited to come feed the horses and ponies, hear their stories and even groom or brush them. No charge and no RSVPs needed. The horses will wear holiday attire. Rain cancels the event. 1098 Lodi Lane, St. Helena. Rescue info, Tracee at 963-7783 or at www.sunrise horserescue.org. Sunrise Stables info, 337-5582 or www.sunrise-stables.com.

Wildlife Conservation Commission

The Napa County Executive Office announces the opening of one position on the Wildlife Conservation Commission. The position starts immediately and expires Feb. 1. The purpose of the commission is to advise the board of supervisors on policy matters related to the preservation/enhancement of wildlife and their habitats. The commission meets three times annually and holds special meetings on an on-call basis as needed. Anyone interested must complete the Napa County Committees and Commissions application form, which must be submitted by Jan. 4, no later than 5 p.m. Info, 253-4421 or www.co.napa.ca.us. Applications can also be picked up at 1195 Third St., Suite 310.

Other

Holiday library hours

The Napa Main Library, the American Canyon Library, and the Calistoga Library open, but with shortened hours, on Dec. 24. The Napa Main Library and the American Canyon Library are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the Calistoga Library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All libraries close Dec. 25. The Napa Main Library, the American Canyon Library and the Calistoga Library are open for normal hours on Dec. 26. The Yountville Library is not open on Wednesdays. Info, 253-4241.

The Napa Main, American Canyon, and Calistoga libraries open, with shortened hours, on New Year’s Eve. The Napa Main Library and the American Canyon Library are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the Calistoga Library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Yountville Library is not open Mondays. All libraries close on New Year’s Day. The Napa Main, American Canyon and Calistoga libraries re-open during regularly scheduled service hours on Jan 2.

Christmas dinner

The Table serves dinner on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, noon to 2 p.m. Anyone who needs a bit of holiday cheer is welcome to come. The free-meal program, operated by volunteers from over 20 local community, faith, and civic groups, is hosted by the First Presbyterian Church of Napa at 1333 Third St., Napa. Info, 224-8693.

Art exhibit

Gay Outlaw is recognized for her photography and sculpture which explores form through structure, pattern and translation. The exhibit has been extended to Jan. 12 in the Gatehouse Gallery at the di Rosa Preserve. Drop-in hours Tuesday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Saturday, Gatehouse Gallery opens with a tour. 5200 Carneros Highway 121, Napa. Info, 226-5991 ext. 25 or www.dirosapreserve.org

Gala tickets available

The Napa Valley Unity League and Michael Holmes announce the reunification of the Napa Valley Academy Awards Gala Black Tie and Black T-Shirt Parties on Feb. 24, 2008, hosted by Sterling Vineyards. The event features live entertainment, the awards on the big screen, Black Tie Dinner, Black T-shirt Dance with DJ Rotten Robbie, Napa Valley restaurants and wineries, and more. The silent auction, raffle and balloon prize items open to all attendees. Pre-sale gala tickets vary from $150-175. Black T-shirt ticket includes a ride on the tram to the top of Sterling Vineyards. Explore the beauty of the winery and overlook the valley, and taste appetizers from fine restaurants. Hundreds of auction prizes, live entertainment and more. Black T-Shirt tickets vary from $40-50. Info and tickets, www.napavalleyacademyawards.org

Poetry broadcast

“Moon River” poetry airs on KSVY (91.3 FM) Sonoma. From 9-10 p.m. on Sundays, the weekly program features the console creations of Everett Lehman, organist at the Meadows of Napa.

Jarvis Journal

Tune into the all-new Jarvis Journal on cable Channel 28, screening every Thursday at noon and Friday at 10 p.m. Funny footage of Carter, frisky rabbits and men from the moon, as well as local action, is included. Coming in January: an all new Jarvis Journal featuring the year in review, a special report. Coming in February, napaisburning.com.

The N.A.P.A. Show

Tune in every Wednesday, 6-7:30 p.m. to Napa TV Channel 28 for live entertainment. It’s the N.A.P.A. Show (Newest Arty Party Adventure) with host Arty “Party” Reyes and co-host Alissa Solis, “The Hollywood Homegirl,” and the rest of the dynamic crew. Interviews with local guests and lots of fun and games with viewer participation! Sit back, get your favorite beverage, relax and party with Arty! This show is dedicated each week to the late, great George “The Barber” Alvarez.

Class of 1988 reunion

The Vintage High School Class of 1988 planning committee is putting together its 20-year reunion, to occur sometime next year, and is currently trying to contact all the classmates who graduated from Vintage High School that year. If you, or someone you know, is a Class of 1988 alumni, please send an e-mail to vhs88reunion@yahoo.com. Include full name and maiden name (if applicable). You will receive the weekly reunion newsletter filled with current updates on the reunion planning, plus a current list of names of people who have been contacted, and those that still need to be found.