Education

Corrections academy

The Criminal Justice Training Center at Napa Valley College is currently filling seats in the Adult Corrections Academy that starts Jan. 29. It’s not too late to enroll in this five-week program providing state certification to work in a county jail as a correctional officer. The cost is only $390, plus uniforms. Students earn seven units of transferable credit. Correctional officers are in demand, and students may be recruited for jobs right out of the academy. Info, 253-3255.

River Middle School

River Middle School, Napa’s only public charter middle school, offers three open enrollment information sessions: Jan. 29, 6:30-8 p.m., at Evans Hall on the River/Harvest campus; Feb. 12, 6:30-8 p.m., at the library on campus; and Feb. 20, 6:30- 8 p.m., also at the library. Sessions are open to all students and parents interested in River School. 2447 Old Sonoma Road, Napa. Info, 253-6813 or www.riverschool.org.

Northwood open house

Northwood Elementary School holds a Parent Information Meeting on Jan. 30, 6:30-7 p.m. in Room 1. Meet the Kindergarten teachers, see the classrooms, and learn about our exemplary educational programs. All parents invited. Daycare and Spanish translation offered. 2214 Berks St., Napa. Info, 253-3471.

Alta Heights open house

Alta Heights Elementary School, a California Distinguished School, holds an open house for new parents on Jan. 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., in the multi-use room. Experience the rich history of 50 years in excellence in education, kindergarten instructional program, state-of-the-art computer lab and library, and an exceptional staff. 15 Montecito Blvd., Napa. Info, 253-3671, or e-mail: ahes@nvusd.k12.ca.us.

Scams and Cons

The Springs of Napa holds a special informational meeting on “Scams and Cons Against Seniors,” with guest speaker Brian Tong of the Napa County District Attorney’s Office  on Jan. 31, 12:30 p.m., in the activity room. Info, 224-7855.

Police academy

Napa Valley College offers an evening Police Academy starting March 15. This academy is designed for students who work full-time. You can earn a certificate and become eligible for more than 8,000 vacant police officer and deputy sheriff jobs in California. Financial aid and the GI Bill are available. Call 253-3250 or visit www.nvccjtc.org. The next entrance exam is Feb. 2.

Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy

Tanya Mills, D.C., speaks on Hearts, Health and Wealth, on Feb. 2, 11 a.m. to noon. Discover how chiropractic can help restore the life force in the body so it can begin to restore itself to healthful wholeness. Free. On Feb. 4, learn and experience Rosen Movement, which helps lubricate the joints, get muscles moving and bring in more breath. 6:30-7:30 p.m., led by Nivedita Glace, Rosen Movement teacher. 4020 Bel Aire Plaza, Napa. Info, 253-0970.

Free parenting classes

Napa Valley Adult School offers “Positive Parenting for Parents of Preteens and Teens” on Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m., from Feb. 3 to March 19. This class helps foster cooperation, set limits and give clear choices. Another class, “Effective Parenting,” is held Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m., from Feb. 5 to March 18. This class is for parents/caregivers interested in positive discipline techniques. New students are welcome anytime. Free. Redwood Middle School, Room A-3. Info, 253-3594.

Napa County postmarks

Napa native Peggy Meister describes and discusses Napa County postmarks. Free. Feb. 3, 2:30 p.m., at the Goodman Library, 1219 First St., Napa. Info, 224-1739 or www.Napahistory.org.

Mt. George informational night

Mt. George Elementary School, an International Baccalaureate candidate school, holds a parent information night Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. in the multi-use room at 1019 Second Ave., Napa.

Cybermill informational night

CyberMill Technology Center holds the Intro to PhotoShop Elements 5 informational night on Feb. 5 or Feb. 12, 6-6:30 p.m.  Come for an informational night about upcoming PhotoShop class for adults. Learn to import, organize, edit, print and e-mail photos for your business, friends and family. 3299 Claremont Way, Suite 4, Napa.

Blue Oak School

Blue Oak School holds a two-hour kindergarten open house program with teachers, administrators and parents, on Feb. 7 at 4:30 p.m. 1436 Polk St., Napa. Info, 261-4500 or www.blueoakschool.org.

St. John Catholic School

St. John the Baptist Catholic School invites all prospective families to its Community Open House on Feb. 7, 6-8 p.m., at  983 Napa St., Napa. Meet the teachers and tour the historic campus. Application packets will be available. St. John the Baptist offers a fully accredited, California Standards-based curriculum for kindergarten through 8. Info, 224-8388, or www.stjohnscatholic.org.

Baby Signs workshops

Reduce your stress and baby’s by learning tools to help in the process of learning to talk. Baby Signs is a smart approach to bridging the gap between babbling and talking in hearing children and their parents. Simple signs are used in communication and are taught through games, songs and other activities. Workshop Feb. 9, 9:30-11 a.m. $60 fee includes Baby Signs Parent Kit. Info, Leslie Timm at 812-4035 or 320-9866.

Napa County Office of Education

NCOE presents the Ten Top Tips for Academic Success parent workshop, a 90-minute presentation featuring best tips for learning based on the latest brain research. Research shows that students who understand the brain, how it learns, and how to develop their personal study strategies are more apt to achieve academic success. Feb. 20, 6 p.m. dinner, 6:30 presentation. $10 fee for dinner and materials. R.S.V.P. by Jan. 11 to Nancy Lewis at 253-6890, 2121 Imola Ave., Napa.

Dyslexia presentation

Learn about dyslexia at a free presentation given by Heidi Nord on Feb. 28, 6:30-8 p.m. Napa Community Bank, 700 Trancas St., Napa. Info, 225-4409.

Scholarship contest

Napa area high school seniors are invited to take part in an essay scholarship contest. Sponsored annually by Birthright of Napa since 1996, the “It’s a Wonderful Life” Essay Contest features a $1,000 grand prize; a $500 first prize; $300 for second place; and $200 for third place. Postmark deadline is March 17. Students planning on continuing their education at a college or university, as well as those opting for vocational, trade, technical, business or military schools, are eligible. Entry forms and further information can be obtained at all local high schools or at Birthright’s office at 1447 Fourth St., Napa. Participants in the contest share how someone has had an impact on their lives.

Napa Valley Adult School

Registration is ongoing for day and evening classes at the Napa Valley Adult School. Choose from a wide variety of classes including: Computer, yoga, golf, meditation, line-dancing, tai chi, Spanish, pastels, watercolors, cake decoration, Italian, business applications, digital camera, job search, and more. GED prep classes, high school diploma classes, ESL and parenting classes also available. Register on-line at www.adulted.nvusd.k12.ca.us, or stop by 1600 Lincoln Ave. Napa. Info, 253-3594.

Napa Valley Music Associates

Napa Valley Music Associates currently has openings in the following areas of music instruction: Beginning to Advanced students for lessons on piano, violin, viola, cello, guitar, voice, trumpet, trombone, saxophone, clarinet, oboe, flute, bassoon, drums, harp and mandolin. These private lessons are open to children ages 6 years, teens and adults. Also available are ensembles for woodwind, brass, strings. Students for ensembles will be accepted by auditions for proper placement. Info, 252-8671, or www.Napaval leymusicassociates.org.

Health/Fitness

Family to family education

A series of 12 free Monday classes begins Jan. 28, structured to help family members, partners and friends of individuals with major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, borderline personality disorder, co-occurring brain disorders and addictive disorders. Sponsored by the National Alliance on Mental Illness . Classes held in Napa from 7-9:30 p.m. To register, contact John/Diane Mitchell at 252-7663 or jndmitchell@comcast.net.

Pharmaca

Diplomat of Oriental Medicine Sarah Thompson presents, “Kitchen Cures” on Jan. 30, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Learn about the medicinal properties of everyday foods and spices from your kitchen cupboard. Free samples and recipes are included. Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy, 4020 Bel Aire Plaza, Napa. Info, 253-0970.

Parents of children

with ADHD group

ParentsCAN announces a support group for parents of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The group meets Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Topics cover symptoms, causes, myths, parent rights, strategies for home and school, as well as parent self-care. Come for one or all workshops. No reservations required. 3299 Claremont Way, Suite 3, Napa. Info, 253-7444 or www.par entscan.org.

Marriage workshop

Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage is a conference hosted by Hillside Christian Center at 100 Anderson Road in Napa on Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22, from 7-9 p.m. The $30 cost per couple, or $15 cost for singles, includes childcare, door prizes and the grand prize of a one-night stay for two at the Meritage Resort. Info, 255-3036.

Smoking cessation class

The Community Quit Smoking Program sponsors a seven-week course including the American Lung Association’s “Smoke-Free” curriculum. Classes are led by ALA facilitators and begin on Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. Free, at Queen of the Valley Medical Center. Info and enrollment, 261-6771.

Falls prevention

The Live Strong and Safe Falls Prevention workshop is  Feb. 5, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is designed for professionals and lead staff who work with seniors, case managers, staff managers for caregivers, nursing staff, discharge planners, home visitors and emergency response staff. Service providers learn practical strategies and activities to build seniors’ confidence in their ability to reduce risk of falling. Free. Lunch and light refreshments provided. Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. Space is limited. Info and registration, 738-7958.

Diabetes wellness

Diabetes wellness classes and support groups are as follows: a blood glucose meter class Jan. 23 at 10 a.m.; diabetes classes begin Feb. 5 and Feb. 13; a pre-diabetes class is Feb. 6; an adult support group meets Feb. 13; and a parents of children with diabetes support group meets Feb. 14. Registration required. Info and location, 252-4411 ext. 2391.

American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society’s Man to Man Support Group helps men cope with prostate cancer by providing information, education and support to patients and their caregivers. The group meets on Feb. 5, 7 p.m., at the Queen of the Valley Hospital. The free “Look Good, Feel Better,” program is Feb. 11, 9:30-11 a.m., at Queen of the Valley Community Outreach. Specially-trained, licensed cosmetologists work with women to address changes due to treatment. Receive free products and advice in a supportive environment. Info and registration, 1-800-ACS-2345.

Free Sufi healing workshop

Faculty and graduate student healers from the University of Spiritual Healing and Sufism offer free one-on-one healings. The healings based in prayer and remembrance of the divine and can help anyone, regardless of the spiritual orientation or health situation. Limited seating; advanced registration is recommended. Feb. 16, 3:30-6:30 p.m., at Studio Arts Napa Valley, 2931 Solano Ave., Napa. Info, 965-1315.

Governor’s Council

on Physical Fitness

Gov. Schwarzenegger launched the Second Annual Governor’s Challenge Competition among K-12 schools, calling on California students, teachers and administrators to help build a healthier California by getting more active, healthy and fit. The grand prize winning elementary, middle and high schools each receive a brand new fitness activity center and 11 additional regional award winning schools receive $5,000 of physical activity equipment. Teachers may sign up at www.CalGovConcil.org, and begin recording active days for themselves and their students. Students may sign up for the challenge and log their active days directly.

 

Halau Ha’a Kea o Kinohi

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

Women’s grief support group

Hospice and Adult Day Services of Napa Valley offers a tea and comfort grief support group for women who have experienced the death of a loved one. This group is facilitated by a bereavement professional and meets weekly on Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m., at 414 So. Jefferson St., in Napa. Free. Info, 258-9080; ask for the bereavement department.

Upvalley support group

Hospice and Adult Day Services of Napa Valley offers a grief support group for Upvalley residents who have experienced the death of a loved one. This group is facilitated by a bereavement professional and meets weekly on Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m., in Calistoga. Free. Info, 258-9080; ask for the bereavement department.

Weight loss support

Take Off Pounds Sensibly, Inc., is a nonprofit, non-commercial weight loss support organization. Members learn about nutrition, portion control, food planning, exercise and more. Weigh-ins, group feedback, and support help members achieve their goals. TOPS’ national dues are $24/year. Each chapter has a monthly due of $2-5 depending on the size or needs of the chapter. A local TOPS Chapter meets Thursdays 8:30-11 a.m. at Newell’s Mobile City Clubhouse, 4427 Solano Ave. Napa. Info, Mickey Drake at 253-8363, or www.tops.org.

Arthritis support group

The Springs of Napa hosts 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. Materials supplied, experience not needed. Classes are taught by Joe Roter, master therapy artist. Info, Yolanda at 251-2003.

Grief support group

Hospice and Adult Day Services of Napa Valley offers a coffee and conversation grief support group for men who have experienced the death of a loved one. This group is facilitated by a bereavement professional and meets weekly on Fridays, 9:30-11 a.m., at 414 So. Jefferson St., in Napa. Free. Info, 258-9080 and ask for the bereavement department.

Volunteer/fundraisers

Volunteers for CyberMill

High school and college students, become a volunteer and/or intern at CyberMill Technology Center. For a few hours a week, you can volunteer or intern in the afternoons (after school) and earn school credit, a reference and/or a letter of reference! Start right away, or come to an informational meeting on Feb. 6, 5:30-6 p.m., at 3299 Claremont Way, Napa. Info, 258-8884 ext. 13.

LAPS

Loving Animals Providing Smiles, a dedicated group of volunteers providing animal-assisted therapy visits in Napa and Solano counties, holds an informational meeting open to the public on Jan. 30, 7:15-8 p.m., in the Community Room at the Napa City-County Library, 580 Coombs St., Napa. LAPS welcomes all types of domestic pets and their handlers into volunteer service work. This meeting allows interested members of the community to see firsthand how animal-assisted therapy works, visit with our experienced volunteers, and collect informational materials. Sorry, no pets allowed at this event. Info, 265-6642 or www.deltasociety.org.

Volunteer Center

The Senior Services Program needs volunteers to visit seniors, assist with transportation to medical appointments, and people who are capable of installing grab bars or completing minor home repairs in the homes of frail, low-income seniors. Sexual Assault Victims Services and Victim/Witness Services need volunteers to assist and advocate for victims of sexual assaults and other violent crimes. Volunteer advocates answer a 24-hour hotline, and accompany victims to court, to the hospital, police station, DA’s office and in the courtroom. Bilingual volunteers especially needed. A 40-hour training program, held in the evenings and weekends, is required. Napa Elder Abuse Project needs volunteers to answer the 24-hour hotline. Volunteers sign up for shifts and calls may be answered from home. Calls are forwarded by an answering service. A 40-hour training program is required. Child Assault Prevention Empowerment needs volunteers to educate children on ways to become empowered and prevent abuse through safety/prevention workshops. Training is provided. The 4th Annual Masquerade Ball is the major fundraiser for the programs. This year the ball is on March 14 at Sattui’s Castello di Amorosa. Volunteers are needed prior to and on the day of the ball. Jobs include picking up auction items, event set-up, guest registration and assisting with the silent and live auctions. Info, Katie Rubin at 252-6222 or katier@volunteerNapa.org.

Napa Emergency Women’s Services

In February, Napa Emergency Women’s Services begins the next training series for those interested in volunteering to work directly with victims of domestic violence and their children. Volunteers who complete this training will be qualified to work at the confidential shelter, interact directly with clients, and volunteer providing on-call services in responding to the scene of domestic violence incidents.  For those who would like to volunteer but would rather participate by working on fundraising or special events, the training is not required and they are welcomed and encouraged to contact NEWS at any time. The 40-hour formal training to become a certified Domestic Violence Counselor begins Feb. 5 and continues through March 4, scheduled in the evenings and on two Saturdays. Anyone wishing to participate must be 18 years of age, and have a valid driver’s license. Info, Sarah Dickens at 252-3687 ext. 4485, or e-mail sarahd@Napanews.org

Volunteers for

cancer society

Volunteers are needed for American Cancer Society Discovery Shop. Help in the battle against cancer. Volunteers are needed for a variety of roles at the shop, a quality resale store located at 1342 Trancas St., Napa. No experience necessary. Schedules are flexible and training is provided. The shop’s proceeds fund the American Cancer Society. Info, Dana at 224-4398.

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

Commission on Aging

The Commission on Aging meets Jan. 28, 2 p.m., at the Napa City-County Library, 580 Coombs St., Napa. Jody Reid, director for the California Alliance for Retired Americans, talks about SB 840.

NVRTA board meeting

The Napa Valley Retired Teacher Association is open to any retired educator in the Napa Valley. It holds its executive board meeting Feb. 11, 10 a.m., at the NVUSD offices. Information, Jeff/Terry Johnson at 944 8445, or e-mail johnson2527@sb global.net.

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.

Cribbage

Napa Cribbage Club plays Tuesday evenings at the Moose Lodge, 3275 Browns Valley Road, Napa. 15-2, 15-4, avoid the skunk! Come have some fun pegging. Info, Denny at 224-2345.

Needlepoint Guild

The Wine Country Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild meets at the Napa Senior Center on the fourth Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. All stitchers welcome. Info, 255-1199.

Other

Scrapbooking event

Grandparents who are raising their grandchildren are invited to create a “Life Book” scrapbook for them at ParentsCAN Jan. 28, 10-11:30 a.m., at 3299 Claremont Way, Suite 3, Napa. A guest speaker leads a discussion of the importance and how-to’s. Bring a few photos of you and your grandkids. Supplies, coffee, tea and support provided. R.S.V.P., 253-7444.

Beanies for troops

Those interested in donating black beanie caps for the troops in Afghanistan and Iraq can drop them off at the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce office, Curves, and Keva Juice. Drop-offs in Napa are at the Napa Chamber of Commerce or the Artists of the Valley Oxbow Gallery. Keva Juice in Canyon Corners Plaza in American Canyon accepts beanie caps seven days a week. The owner, Les Collins, is all too familiar with the need, for he has also been deployed to Iraq and Desert Shield. Les reminds us, “The troops can only wear black beanie caps; no logos or accessories.” For additional information, or to donate money, contact Brenda Knight at 319-4773. Donations are accepted until Jan. 31.