Education

NCHS Kids Club

Share the historical riches of Napa County with your children and grandchildren. The Napa County Historical Society is pleased to unveil the NCHS Kids Club. For just $15 per year, kids ages 7-10 can learn about the history of Napa through games, activities, programs and special events. One-year membership includes quarterly newsletters and free admission to the society’s kids activity days twice a year. Applications, Kristie at director@napahis tory.org or 224-1739. Info, www.napahistory.org.

Quilting classes

In a supportive and positive atmosphere, Marsha Ewig teaches beginners to construct a sampler quilt so they may experience the variety quilting has to offer. For the experienced quilter, popular techniques such as rotary cutting and paper piecing are spotlighted. In-class registration only, Fridays, 1:30-4:30 p.m., at Napa Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. Info, 967-2900.

Studio Arts Napa Valley

Check out these new classes happening at Studio Arts Napa Valley in February: Little Yogis (yoga class for children); Poetry Fun (kids learn to create poems); Science and Cooking Experience; Mommy and Me Bella Dance (hula and bellydance fun with your little one); and Post-natal Fitness (moms get fit with baby at their side). Info, Leslie Timm at 320-9866.

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. Topics include: challenges facing the middle school “tweenager,” the teenage brain as a work in progress, crisis in the teen years, how to stop fighting with your teen and creating a positive family environment. Another class offered is “Effective Parenting,” held Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m., from Feb. 5 to March 18. New students  welcome anytime. Classes are free and held at Redwood Middle School, Room A-3. Info and registration, 253-3594.

Special lecture at Trinity

The public is invited to hear James Hitchcock, Ph.D., speak on “Is the Supreme Court a Friend or Foe of Religious Freedom?” on Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., at Trinity Grammar & Prep. Hitchcock is a professor of history at St. Louis University and the author of many books, including “The Supreme Court and Religion in American Life.” No charge. 2055 Redwood Road, Napa. Info, 258-9030.

River Middle School

River Middle School, Napa’s only public charter middle school, offers two open enrollment information sessions: 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.

Cybermill informational night

CyberMill Technology Center holds the Intro to PhotoShop Elements 5 informational night on Feb. 12, 6-6:30 p.m. Join them for an informational night about their 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 gives tours of both the lower and middle school campuses on Feb. 12, at 9 a.m. Reservations required. The school is at 1436 Polk St., Napa. Info, 261-4500 or www.blueoakschool.org.

Student exhibit

Students from New Technology High School hold an exhibit at the Napa Library on Feb. 13, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The Great Depression is the focus of the exhibit, entitled “Together We Stand.” Students are on hand to discuss the exhibit and answer questions. Other exhibits include displays/multimedia productions representing John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath.” 580 Coombs St., Napa. Free. Info, Rebecca Pollack or Stephen Federico, 259-8557.

Blue Oak School

A two-hour program on Blue Oak School’s lower school for grades 1 through 5 with teachers, administrators and parents, is held on Feb. 13, at 4:30 p.m. The school is located at 1436 Polk St., Napa. Info, 261-4500 or www.blueoakschool.org.

College awareness night

Napa Valley College hosts College Awareness Night in American Canyon on Feb. 13, 6-8 p.m. at the American Canyon Community Center on Benton Way. It is free and open to the public. In addition to information on NVC programs and services, four-year college and university representatives participate and share information. There is also information on the college’s criminal justice training center, financial aid, student services, hospitality management program, health occupations and vocational programs. Representatives from Pacific Union College, Sonoma State University, Sacramento State University, UC Berkeley, UC Davis and University of Phoenix have been confirmed, among others. Info, Robyn Tornay at 253-3249; or e-mail rtornay@napavalley.edu.

Book signing

On Feb. 13, at 7 p.m., authors Charles O’Rear and Daphne Larkin discuss their book “Wine Across America: A Photographic Road Trip.” Books available for purchase and signing. Free. St. Helena Public Library, 1492 Library Lane, St. Helena. Sponsored by the Napa Valley Wine Library Association. Info, 963-5244.

Benefit book sale

Thousands of books on all topics, plus videos and records go on sale at the Napa City-County Library from Feb. 16-24. Feb. 16 is Preview Day for Friends of the Library members only. The sale is open during normal library hours, except Sundays when the sale closes at 5 p.m. Items are added to stock daily. A Collector’s Corner display offers special books, collectibles and records. The sale is sponsored by Friends of Napa Library, with proceeds supporting library programs and projects. Community room of the Napa Library,  580 Coombs St., Napa.

Blue Oak School

Blue Oak School holds an enrollment information meeting on their middle school campus on Feb. 19, at 7 p.m. Presentation on the Blue Oak School mission and programs is led by Head of School Scott Duyan. The school is located at 1272 Hayes St., Napa. Info, 261-4500 or www.blueoakschool.org.

Financial information series

McCuen Investment Group is pleased to present its monthly series, “The Sensible Investor 20.” The next topic is Stabilizing Your Portfolio, presented by George P. McCuen, CFP, on Feb. 19,at 6:30 p.m. These free 20-minute seminars are held at McCuen Investment Group’s offices, 1836 Second St., Napa. A question-and-answer period follows each session, along with refreshments. Space is limited. R.S.V.P. at 252-1343 or www.NapaAdvisor.com.

Photoshop class

An Introduction to Photoshop Elements class for adults is held Feb. 19 to March 25, 6-7:30 p.m. In six easy classes, learn to import, organize, edit and share photos with friends and family. Bring camera, media cards, photos or use their equipment. CyberMill Technology Center, 3299 Claremont Way, Suite 4, Napa. $90. Register at 258-8884 ext. 14.

Napa County Office

of Education

NCOE presents the Ten Top Tips for Academic Success parent workshop, a 90-minute presentation featuring a new version of the best tips for learning, based on the latest brain research. Feb. 20, at 6 p.m. for dinner, 6:30 for presentation. $10 fee for dinner and materials. Info, 253-6890. 2121 Imola Ave., Napa.

Business symposium

Morgan Stanley hosts its 1st Annual Napa Valley Business Symposium, for visionary business leaders with five or more employees focused on thriving and prospering in 2008. The featured speaker is Professor Robert Tanner of California State University. Tanner shares his presentation, “Management is a Journey, Not a Destination.” An interactive panel discussion with questions and answers follows. Feb. 20, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Embassy Suites. Info, 252-7177.

Veterans’ aid

On Feb. 20, 4-5 p.m., a representative from Sandeen and Associates visits Aegis to discuss the Veterans’ Aid and Attendance benefit, a federal entitlement program offering a monthly payment from the Department of Veteran Affairs. Money can be used to pay assisted living bills or for home health care. Veterans’ that are eligible are those who served 90 days or more in active duty, with at least one day during wartime, and who were honorably discharged. Free. 2100 Redwood Road, Napa. Info, 251-1409.

Health/Fitness

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 A.L.A. facilitators and began Feb. 4, at 6 p.m. Free at Queen of the Valley Hospital. Info and enrollment, 261-6771.

Alzheimer’s prevention

Dr. Pat Wolfe, a nationally-known expert on the brain, holds a class on “How to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease,” on Feb. 10, at 10:30 a.m., at First Presbyterian Church of Napa, on the corner of Randolph and Third streets, in the church chapel on Randolph.

Pharmaca events

On Feb. 11, 6-7 p.m., Noel Lopreore, edible flower grower, and Peter Jacobsen, certified organic gardener, lead the discussion, “Food, Flowers and Fun: Creating an Organic Kitchen Garden.”  On Feb. 20, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Myra Nissen speaks on “Demystifying Homeopathy,” a brief overview of the history, philosophy, principles and uses of homeopathy.  All events are free. Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy, 4020 Bel Aire Plaza, Napa. Info, 253-0970.

American Cancer Society

The ACS hosts the free “Look Good, Feel Better,” program on Feb. 11, 9:30-11 a.m., at Queen of the Valley Community Outreach. Specially-trained, licensed cosmetologist 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.

Education presentation

Brother Ray Vercruysse, CFC, addresses the topic of “Parents as Primary Educators” during his guest appearance at St. John the Baptist Catholic School on Feb. 12, at 7 p.m. Brother Ray’s presentation takes place in the Parish Hall at 924 Napa St., Napa. A nationally recognized educator and administrator, Brother Ray is director of the Institute for Catholic Educational Leadership, University of San Francisco, School of Education. Free.

Ostomy support group

The Ostomy Support group meets the second Tuesday of the month at the Queen of the Valley Hospital in Conference Room #3. The next meeting is Feb. 12, at 3:30 p.m. Info, Kathy at 255-6695.

Team In Training

Train for a marathon or half-marathon (run or walk), triathlon or 100-mile cycling event, while raising money to help people with blood cancer. Team In Training is a major fundraiser for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Learn more Feb. 12, at 6:30 p.m., at Queen of the Valley Hospital, Main Conference Room # 3, 1000 Trancas St., Napa. Info, 303-4800 or visit www.TeamInTrain ing.org.

Diabetes wellness

The Diabetes Wellness Program offers wellness classes and support groups: A diabetes class on Feb. 13; a blood glucose monitoring class on Feb. 13 and Feb. 27, from 10-11 a.m.; an adult support group on Feb. 13; a parents of children with diabetes support group on Feb. 14; and a carbohydrate-counting class on Feb. 25, from 6-8 p.m. Registration required for classes. Info and location, 252-4411 ext. 2391.

Eating disorder talk

According to the Federal Office on Women’s Health, eating disorders are on the rise in the U.S. and worldwide. Tom and Doris Smeltzer of Napa are well aware of these troubling increases. Their 19-year-old daughter, Andrea, died suddenly and tragically after only one year of bulimic behaviors. Since that time, they have been invited to speak before a congressional briefing and at conferences and universities across the nation on the topic of eating disorders. They share the knowledge they have gained from experts in the field in a rare local appearance. The Napa Valley College Student Health Center sponsors a presentation Feb. 13, 9:30-11 a.m., in the college’s Little Theater. Free talk, free parking. Info, NVC Student Health Center at 259-8005.

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. 15 and Feb. 22. The low cost of $30 per couple, or $15 for singles, includes childcare, door prizes and the grand prize of a one-night stay at the Meritage Hotel for two. Come laugh your way!

Free Sufi healing workshop

Faculty and graduate student healers from the University of Spiritual Healing and Sufism offer free one-on-one healings to the community. Participants may report a wide range of benefits from improved health, inner peace, and a sense of well-being; relational and work life improvements; and a deepened connection to God, one’s own inner truth, or to the Divine. 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.

Fibromyalgia support group

The Fibromyalgia Support Group meets Feb. 16, 12:30-2:30 p.m., with Dr. Rebecca Thompson speaking on “Living With FM: A Journey of Hope and Understanding.” Family and friends welcome. Napa Valley College, Building 800, Room 836, Napa. Info, 255-7786.

NARFE breakfast

The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, Napa County Chapter No. 0281, serves breakfast on Feb. 17, from 7:30-11 a.m., at the Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. The public is invited to feast on ham, eggs, hotcakes and coffee. $4 adults/$2 children under 12. Tickets available at the door. Info, 224-9479.

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 Friday mornings from 9:30-11 a.m., at 414 So. Jefferson St., in Napa. Men are provided with a safe and accepting environment to express the difficult feelings that accompany their loss. Grief education and counseling also provided. Free. Info, 258-9080 and ask for the bereavement department.

Volunteer/fundraisers

Peace corps info session

The Peace Corps seeks skilled men, women and married couples from Napa County to serve as Peace Corps volunteers around the world. Assignments last two years and include travel and living expenses, plus medical insurance. Peace Corps service has no upper age limit. Volunteers must be 18 years old and U.S. citizens. An information session is held Feb. 13, 6-7:30 p.m., at Napa City-County Library, 580 Coombs St., Napa. Info, 1-800-424-8580 or www.peacecorps.gov.

Clubs/Meetings

Congress Valley Water District

The district’s board of directors meet Feb. 11, this time at 5 p.m., at the Napa Women’s Club, 218 Franklin St., Napa. Info, 718-2035.

NVRTA board meeting

The Napa Valley Retired Teacher Association is open to any retired educator in the Napa Valley. They hold their executive board meeting on Feb. 11, 10 a.m., at the NVUSD offices. Information, Jeff/Terry Johnson at 944 8445, or e-mail  john son2527@sbcglobal.net.

Library commissioners meeting

The Napa City-County Library Commission holds its regular public meeting Feb. 11, 4 p.m., in the Yountville Library, 6548 Yount St., in Yountville. To place an item on the agenda, contact the library business office at 253-4242 by 5 p.m., on Feb. 1. Requests for disability-related modifications or accommodations, aids or services may be made to the Library business office no less than 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Agenda packets are available beginning five days before the meeting at the Napa Main Library, the American Canyon Library, the Calistoga Library and the Yountville Library. Info, 253-4242.

Mac User Group

Apple users, fans, geeks, Windows-refugees and newbies, come to the Napa Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa, on Feb. 14, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Learn more about the best software programs available for your computer? This is a hands-on, user-driven meeting, packed with practical information, held on the second Thursday of each month. New members welcome. Bring your gear. Info, Ron Rogers at 226-5352.

NSC meeting

Napa Success Connection, a local business networking group holds its weekly meeting, Feb. 13, 8:15-9 a.m., at the Senior Center House, 1528 Jefferson St., Napa. NSC members help each other grow their businesses through referrals, mutual support, guest speaker presentations and participation in community events. Info, www.napasuccessconnection.com.

Napa County Resource Conservation

The NCRC has their regularly scheduled board meeting on Feb. 14, at 8 a.m. All meetings are open to the public and held at their office at 1303 Jefferson St., Suite 500B. Info, 252-4188.

Welcome Wagon of Napa

The Welcome Wagon Club of Napa meets at Uva Trattoria on Feb. 14. Members are asked to bring a teddy bear or other stuffed animal for the police and fire departments to give to traumatized children. All long-time and recent residents are invited to attend this women’s club event. Social hour begins at 11 a.m.; luncheon at noon; and the speaker and meeting at 1 p.m. Deadline for reservations is Feb. 8. Info, Kathy Stevens at 255-3617.

Napa Valley Needlers

The Napa Valley Needlers meet Feb. 14, 11:30 a.m., at the Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. This month’s program reaches beyond its outreach program and focuses on landfill. Guest speaker Jeanne Lumbert, an eco-minded citizen, discusses the pros and cons of market bags versus plastic or paper. The follow-up workshop for February is on making market bags. Info, 965-9223.

DAR

The Vineyard Trails Chapter DAR convenes the third Saturday, October through May, at 11:30 a.m., at Marie Callender’s located at Trower and Highway 29. The Feb. 16 program is “Today’s DAR” with speaker Sybil O’Keefe, past district director III and past chapter regent. The program is in celebration of their 40th anniversary.

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. All ages welcome. (Members and qualified guests only.) Info, Denny at 224-2345.

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.

Napa Valley Republican Women Federated

This group meets for a luncheon meeting on the second Thursday of each month from January to December, with the exception of July and August. Speakers are invited to attend each meeting. Membership is open to all ladies who are registered Republicans. Other activities include voter registration, community outreach, and an advocacy program involving youth with a day-long trip to Sacramento designed to provide interaction with state legislators. Info, Maren Namdar at 252-1015, or Carol Stein at 226-5090.

Napa County Resource Conservation District

The Napa County Resource Conservation District’s meets at 1303 Jefferson Street, Suite 500 B, 8 a.m. on the second Thursday of the month. The public is welcome. Info, Kathleen Edson 252-4188 ext. 108.

Nature/Recreation

Animal rescue

Monique Liguori from the Suisun Marsh Natural History Association, with the aid of a slideshow and rehabilitated birds of prey and other creatures, explains the rescue and wildlife rehabilitation work carried out by this organization. Free to members, $5 for others. Feb. 23, 10 a.m. to noon at the Carolyn Parr Nature Center, 3107 Brownsville Road, Napa. Reservations, 255-6465.