Education

Napa Valley Music Associates

New private and class instruction offered in a variety of instruments and classes. All ages and skill levels welcome. Info, 252-8671 or www.napavalleymusicassociates.org

Discussions on religion

Jim Craig, retired teacher of comparative religions, presents the third in his lecture series on the topics of the “Psalm of the Hoopoe Bird” and “The Voice of Gomer.” He considers the appeal of Jerusalem and Yahweh, religious/ethnic intermarriage and the place of women and prophets. Today, 9:45-10:45 a.m. Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley, 1515 Pueblo Ave., Napa. Info, Tom Wilson at 2wilsons1dog@comcast.net or 254-7443.

Miss Napa County Program informational meeting

The search has begun for the 2010 participants. Two scholarship programs: ages 17-24 for the Miss Napa County program, ages 13-16 for the Northern Valley’s Outstanding Teen program. Learn about free training and scholarships available. Sunday, noon to 3 p.m. HealthQuest, 3175 California Blvd., Napa. Info, Katelyn Bruce at MissNapaOrg@gmail.com or 299-9374.

G.K. Chesterton: His Wit, Wisdom & Sanctity

Dale Ahlquist, popular author, TV host, and president of the G.K. Chesterton Society, presents an illuminating and inspiring talk on the wit, wisdom and sanctity of G.K. Chesterton. Chesterton was profound and prolific in his defense of Christianity and the Church, using his good-humored battle with words against various evils in today’s world. Sunday, 7:30 p.m. Kolbe Academy-Trinity Prep, 2055 Redwood Road, Napa. Info, tony@ignatius.com

Poetry Read Around

Join Napa Valley’s Poet Laureate, Gary Silva, the third Sunday of each month, 3-4:30 p.m., for a reading and sharing of poetry. Bring your own poems to share, or relax and enjoy. St. Helena Public Library, 1492 Library Lane, St. Helena. Info, director@shpl.org or 967-2805.

Active Minds

Hour-long preschool experience includes circle time, art and sensory activities, cooperative play experiences, music and movement and more with a focus on socialization and literacy. Appropriate for children ages 8 and younger. Adults must be present in order to attend. Wednesday and Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. Community Resources for Children, 3299 Claremont Way, Suite 1, Napa. Registration required, 253-0376 ext. 140.

Teen driving class

The Napa Area California Highway Patrol holds monthly Start Smart class the third Thursday of the month, 7-9 p.m. Classes address traffic safety issues affecting new teen drivers. Parents encouraged to attend with their teenagers. California Highway Patrol, 975 Golden Gate Drive, Napa. Reservations, 253-4906.

MENSA testing

Wonder how you stack up against the brightest out there? Find out if you’re in the top 2 percent. Participants must be 14 or older and pre-register. $40. Saturday, 9-11:30 a.m. Napa High School, 2475 Jefferson St., Napa. Info and registration, Lenore Hirsch at 320-0643.

Health/Fitness

Teen treatment groups

Wolfe Center is a nonprofit alcohol and drug prevention and treatment program dedicated to helping teens. Early intervention treatment groups available during the summer to teens struggling with substance abuse issues. Groups held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 2:30-4 p.m., at Vintage High School, 1375 Trower Ave., Napa. Info, 255-1855 or csolorio@wolfecenter.org

Food Addicts in Recovery

Anonymous Group meets Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. Queen of the Valley Medical Center (main conference room), 1000 Trancas St., Napa. Info, Jane at trident@pacbell.net or 254-7699.

National Federation of the Blind

The Napa Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind meets the third Monday of each month, 10 a.m. to noon. Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., in Napa. Info, 257-7116.

Blood drive

The Veterans Home of California, 100 California Drive, Yountville, holds a blood drive, 9 a.m. to noon, Tuesday sponsored by Blood Centers of the Pacific, in the hospital recreation area. Eat and drink before donating. Register with Linda Gagne at 944-4505 or at www.bloodheroes.com (click on “Find a Location” and enter sponsor code “cvhyount” to schedule appointment). Walk-ins welcome.

Memory screening

Qualified health care professionals provide free, confidential memory screening to those with memory concerns. Learn about treatment and resources. Tuesday,     11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aegis of Napa, 2100 Redwood Road, Napa. R.S.V.P. to 251-1409.

Multiple sclerosis support group

For those living with the many symptoms of MS in need of someone who understands and can give support, the Multiple Sclerosis support group meets every third Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., at Kaiser Permanente, Claremont conference room, 3285 Claremont Way, Napa. Info, Penelope at 265-9680 or Colin at 944-2262.

Women’s cancer support group

Explore similar issues and concerns with others facing cancer. Meets Wednesdays, 5-6:30 p.m. St. Helena Family Center, 1440 Spring St., St. Helena. Info, Cindi Cantril at 967-5791.

Suicide support group

Group offers grief education and an opportunity for participants to share experiences in a safe, supportive environment. Wednesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. Napa Valley Hospice, 414 S. Jefferson St., Napa. Info and registration, 258-9080.

Diabetes Wellness Program

Pre-diabetes class held Thursday and basic diabetes education class Nov. 21. Registration required. Info and location, 252-4411 ext. 2391.

Holiday grief support

Napa Valley Hospice offers a support group for those who have experienced the death of a loved one. Learn how to cope with holiday invitations and family traditions, reduce stress and increase well being. Thursday, 6-8 p.m. Napa Valley Marriott, 3425 Solano Ave., Napa. Registration required, 258-9080.

TOPS support group

Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a nonprofit, non-commercial weight loss support organization. Learn about nutrition, portion control, food planning, exercise and more Thursdays, 8:30-11 a.m. TOPS national dues are $26 per year. Each chapter has a monthly dues of $2 to $5 depending on the size or needs of the chapter. Newell’s Mobile City Clubhouse, 4427 Solano Ave., Napa. Info, 1-800-932-8677; www.tops.org; or Mickey Drake at 253-8363 or mdrake9223@sbcglobal.net

Caregiver support group

Group provides an opportunity to discuss problems, receive support, acquire information and meet others dealing with similar issues. Respite care available free of charge at Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services during this group. Third Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services, 414 S. Jefferson St., Napa. Info, Lisa Hammon at lxb@redwoodrc.org or 542-0282.

Chronic illness workshops

Series of workshops helps chronically ill clients gain a better sense of personal well being. Topics include life stories, body movement and strengthening, mind alertness and self-improvement. Fridays through Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. Queen of the Valley Medical Center, 1000 Trancas St., Napa. Info, rocio.cuddy@stjoe.org or 251-2034.

Wellness art class

Weekly art class offered for residents with chronic conditions such as cancer, heart failure or diabetes. Classes reduce stress and anxiety. Donations accepted. Fridays, 10 a.m. to noon. Queen of the Valley Wellness Center, 3421 Villa Lane, Napa. Info, 251-2007.

Health for the holidays class

Learn how to keep in shape this holiday season; techniques on how to fit in simple, effective exercises during the busy holiday schedule; and how to make healthier choices at the buffet table. Free. Nov. 21, 1-2 p.m. Whole Foods Market, 3682 Bel Aire Plaza, Napa. Info, Tiffany Larson at info@napabootcamp.com or 479-0866.

Pharmaca events

Discover the benefits of bio-identical hormones: their use for menstrual and menopausal symptoms, restoring and increasing sexual drive, promoting mood consistency, relieving anxiety and depression, and increasing mental clarity, focus and energy. Nov. 21, 1-2 p.m. Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy, 4020 Bel Aire Plaza, Napa. Info, jenniferlynndeir@hotmail.com or 253-0970.

Volunteer

Napa Valley Adult Day Services

Volunteers needed Monday through Friday to assist with table service and clearing, and in the kitchen to assist staff with service and clean-up. Info, www.napavalleyhospice-ads.org, or Mary Ellen Makowski at 258-9084 ext. 206 or at mmakowski@napavalleyhospice-ads.org

Cornerstone Assisted Riding and Equitherapy

Do you have a heart four hours per week to spare? C.A.R.E. leaders train volunteers to be therapeutic horse handlers/leaders and/or side walkers. C.A.R.E. provides equine-assisted activities for children and adults. For each therapeutic riding session, three volunteers are needed to support the student, horse and NARHA-certificied instructor. Lessons are held 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays and 3-6 a.m. on Wednesdays. Visit www.carebayarea.com to download release forms and get directions. Info, help@carebayarea.com or 1-888-922-7366.

Napa Valley Museum

Museum features changing and permanent exhibits on art, history and environment of the Napa Valley. Volunteers needed to greet gallery visitors, handle cash register transactions, help with special events and present educational outreach programs to area schoolchildren. Info, 944-0500, ext. 101.

CASA

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 36 hours of initial training. Trained volunteers meet and work with dedicated professionals working to help children and families reunify. Info, Julie DiVerde at jdiverde@napacasa.org or 257-2272.

Volunteer Center of Napa Valley

The Volunteer Center works with more than 72 nonprofits throughout the valley. Volunteers with computer, graphic, marketing and/or business skills needed. Also seeking volunteers to assist with driving seniors to medical appointments and to be friendly visitors. Info, Katie Meehan-Rubin at 252-6222 or katier@volunteernapa.org

Clubs/Meetings

Singles of North Bay

Single seniors 55 and over invited to join other singles for potluck, friendship and conversation. Info, Dee at 226-3642 or Inara at 224-3038.

NARFE breakfast

The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, Napa County Chapter No. 0281, serves breakfast, including ham, eggs, hot cakes and coffee. $4 adults/$2 children under 12. Tickets available at the door. Today, 7:30-11 a.m. Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. Info, 224-9479.

Discussion on art in Napa

Topic for the forum is “Finding a place for art in Napa: community studios and public exhibition spaces,” where the focus is on developing proposals for a Napa community art center, venue and workspace. Guest speaker is Kathryn Reasoner, director of DiRosa. Tuesday, 7-9 p.m. Di Rosa Preserve: Art & Nature, 5200 Carneros Highway, Napa. Info, Olivia at olivia@wanderingrose.org or 363-0395.

The Manifest

Work in an artist collective environment, share inspirations and discuss art philosophy at the Manifest, a visual arts studio workshop held Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m. Includes free studio time for artists of all ages and levels. Bring projects, supplies and anything you have to share. La Bella Terra, 222 Soscol Ave., Napa. Info, Hugo at thesnakecat@gmail.com

Napa Cribbage Club

Napa Cribbage Club plays Tuesdays, 6:15 p.m., at the Moose Lodge, 3275 Browns Valley Road, Napa. Play nine games against nine different opponents. Peg 15-2, 15-4, avoid the skunk! All ages welcome. Info, Denny at 224-2345.

Napa Valley Barbershop Chorus

The Barbershop Chorus meets Tuesdays, 7 p.m., at Napa Valley Baptist Church, 2303 Trower Ave., Napa. Men who can carry a tune and would like to learn more about this style of four-part harmony singing welcome. Info, Alan Cash at 815-7029.

Widowed Persons Association

Widows and widowers meet for support, friendship and activities on Tuesdays, at 8 a.m., at Marie Callender’s, 1990 Trower Ave., Napa. Info, Abbey at 224-8716.

Spanish Club

If you have studied Spanish, the Spanish club invites you to practice Tuesdays, 1:30-3 p.m., at 1518 Jefferson St., Napa (house owned by Napa Senior Center). Info, Patt Scarboro at 252-3384.

Masonic Hi Twelve

The Masonic Hi Twelve meets the first and third Wednesday each month, 11:30 a.m., at Denny’s Restaurant, 1000 Imola Ave., Napa. Info, Harry at 294-2119 or 299-8258.

Personal Computer Users Group

The Napa Valley Personal Computer Users Group meets the third Wednesday of every month, 7-9 p.m. The group helps people get the most use and enjoyment from their personal or public computer. Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. Info, www.nvpcug.org

Kiwanis Club

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Napa is a service organization which works to develop future generations of leaders in the community. Club meets Wednesdays, 7:30-8:30 a.m., at Marie Callender’s, 1990 Trower Ave., Napa. Info, Cliff Haggenjos at 226-3917.

Napa Success Connection

NSC helps its members build successful business through networking, education and community involvement. Guests from all business types are welcome, though membership is limited to one representative of each business category. NSC meets every Wednesday morning, at 8:15 a.m., at the Senior Center, at 1518 Jefferson St., Napa. Info, www.napasuccessconnection.com

Toastmasters

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

Napa Green Drinks

Meet other residents interested in leading Napa toward a more sustainable future. Thursday, 5-7 p.m. Downtown Joe’s, 902 Main St., Napa. Info, Josh Wright at napagreendrinks@gmail.com

Napa Host Lions

Lions meet the first and third Thursdays of each month, at 7 p.m., at the Napa Sea Scout Hall, 402 Riverside Drive, Napa. Guests are welcome by advance reservation to 255-0906. Membership by invitation and open to community service-minded adults who wish to have fun while giving back to their community. $9 dinner. Info, Rich Myers at aprsrmn@aol.com or 255-0906.

LeTip Business Networking

Members are dedicated to the highest professional standards of competence and serve as each other’s sales force. Each business category is represented by one member and no conflicts of interest are allowed. Chapter meets Thursdays, 7:01-8:31 a.m. at Marie Callender’s, 1990 Trower Ave., Napa. Info, Laura Brooks at 287-8048 or lsb@laurasbrooks.com

Grief support group

Napa Valley Hospice offers a grief support group for Upvalley residents who have experienced the death of a loved one. Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m. Rianda House, 1475 Main St., St. Helena. Info, Bereavement Department at 258-9080.

Third Saturday Spinners

Spinners (spinning guild) meet in the little house in front of the bocce ball courts. Bring spinning supplies or other projects. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. R.S.V.P. to Anne Gomes at angomes@juno.com or (510) 236-3837.

Napa Valley Photographic Society

Ron Rogers, former Napa Valley College photography instructor and department chair, does the critique. New members invited. Nov. 23. Social time at 6:30, meeting at 7. Free. Studio II Gallery, 570 Soscol Ave., Napa. Info, Kevin Olson at kolson2@pacbell.com

Silverado Handweavers Guild

Presentation by Kristine Vejar on Indian textiles. Refreshments served. Newcomers welcome. Nov. 23,       7-10 p.m. Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. Info, Barbara Stafford at barbstaf@comcast.net or 224-3229.

Napa Parkinson Support Group

Learn more about Parkinson disease and group problem-solving and receive support. Group meets the fourth Monday of each month (except December), 1-2 p.m. Meadows of Napa Valley, 1800 Atrium Parkway, Napa. Info, patparis@sbcglobal.net

Napa Women’s Club

Monthly meetings held the fourth Tuesday of each month. Social time at 6 p.m. Meeting at 6:30. Free. Nov. 24, 6-9 p.m. Napa Women’s Club, 218 Franklin St., Napa. Info, Joan Taramasso at 224-3924.

Coffee & Conversation for Post-Adoptive Parents

Group for post-adoptive parents meets the last Tuesday of each month, 10-11:30 a.m., to share experiences and offer support. Coffee and pastries provided. Free. R.S.V.P. one day in advance to 299-3909. Lilliput Children’s Services, 1721 First St., Napa.

Democrats of Napa Valley

Group meets the fourth Wednesday of every month to discuss a variety of current issues important on a local level and beyond, and that are vitally important to those living and working in the Napa Valley. Nov. 25, 7-8:30 p.m. Senior Center, 1500 Jefferson St., Napa. Info, Joanne Gifford at president@democratsofnapavalley.org or 257-1208, or www.democratsofnapavalley.org

Nature/Recreation

Linda Falls hike

Explore the natural beauty, local folklore and history, and geologic background of this 140-acre retreat near Angwin. Bring good hiking shoes, lunch and water. As a treat, view a waterfall. Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Info and location, Chip Bouril at csbouril@napanet.net or 944-2058.

Wildlake Ranch loop hike

Hike the entire loop trail at the Land Trust’s Wildlake Ranch. Trek follows the trail down to Bell Canyon Creek and then up over Rattlesnake Ridge for views of the valley. Return through the hunting camp and past Wild Lake back to Poppy Flats. Wear hiking boots, bring lunch, water and sun protection, and be prepared for variable weather. Co-led with the Napa chapter of the Sierra Club. Saturday. Info and location, Penny Proteau at pennyp@napanet.net or 944-2058.

Stargazing

Hosted by Cliff DeLacy, volunteer JPL/NASA Solar System Ambassador. Observing Jupiter, the crescent phase of the moon and many deep space objects. Several telescopes provided. Free. Saturday, 6-10 p.m. Skyline Wilderness Park, 2201 Imola Ave., Napa. Info, www.thestarguide.com

Other

Senior resources

The Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano provides a range of services to support the independence of seniors living in the community, including in-home caregiver referral registry. Info and assistance, 1-800-510-2020. Stop Falls Napa Valley provides resources and strategies for seniors on how to prevent falls. Info, 255-5328.

Wayne’s World Cinema

If you have a band, solo singer, ventriloquist, dance, comedy, magic act or are a film editor, and would like to increase your fan base with worldwide streaming Web cast and on local cable Napa TV Channel 27 and 28, send contact information to waynemorinjr@comcast.net or call 294-2603. Napa/Upvalley only.

“Moon River” poetry broadcast

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. The host is Ward Glenn. The broadcast can also be found at www.ksvy.org.

Mini thrift shop

United Methodist Women’s Thrift Shop, at Adams Hall, on the corner of Fourth and Randolph streets, Napa, is open Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., offering a variety of goods. No sales pressure nor sales tax. Proceeds support local, national and international missions.

Jarvis Journal

The Jarvis Journal airs Thursdays at noon and Fridays at 10 p.m. on cable access TV 28.