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• We are Federally mandated and state-certified, trained advocates for residents of long-term care facilities.
• Educate residents, family and staff regarding resident rights.
• Respond to complaints made by residents or on behalf of residents.
• Always maintain confidentiality.
• Provide community resources.
WHO WE SERVE
• The over 2,000 residents of long-term care facilities in Napa County.
•Residents of Skilled Nursing Facilities.
•Those living in Assisted Living/Residential Care Facilities.
WE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING SERVICES:
Annual Exams | Vaccinations
Dewormings | Spay/Neuter
Nail Trims | Grooming Boarding
Ultrasound
Orthopedic Surgery
Endoscopy
Emergency during business hours Low Level Laser Therapy
indoor and outdoor boarding AVailable!
MONDAY - FRIDAY: 9AM - 6PM LUNCH 1 - 2 PM
SATURDAY: 8AM - 5PM LUNCH 12 - 1 PM
SUNDAY:
URGENT CARE AVAILABLE ONLY: 9AM - 6PM NAPA WEST LOCATION ONLY. CALL OR WALK- IN.
Napa River Pet Hospital 501 Lincoln Avenue, Napa (707) 819-2112 napariverpethospital.com
Napa West Pet Hospital 2999 Solano Avenue, Napa (707) 254-9033 napawestpethospital.com
Our Mission
The Mission of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is to seek resolution of problems and advocate for the rights of residents in long-term care facilities. Ensuring each person their dignity, quality of life, and quality of care.
A Volunteer Ombudsman:
• Visits with residents.
• Identifies complaints and concerns.
• Investigates complaints
• Performs regular visits to assigned facilities.
• Promotes respect and rapport among residents, facility staff and the Ombudsman program.
Requirements:
• At least 18 years of age.
• Pass a background check.
• Complete Ombudsman training.
• Dependable and reliable.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Adequate transportation to visit facilities.
Thinking this could be the right volunteer opportunity for you?
Please feel free to reach out to your local ombudsman office!
Thinking this could be the right volunteer opportunity for you? Please feel free to reach out to your local ombudsman office!
and reliable
•Good interpersonal and communication skills
•Adequate transportation to visit facilities
For over two decades, it has been our honor to provide our clients with the highest quality mortgage services in Napa Valley and beyond! We wouldn’t be where we are today without the continued support of our amazing clients, staff, and partners. We are so grateful to all of you who have helped us get to this beautiful milestone.
DOWNTOWN
NAPA
It’s always wonderful to feel fall roll into town. October ends on a high note – it’s time for Hometown Halloween Trick or Treating in downtown Napa. Sponsored by the Bank of Marin, this is the day for parents to dress their kids (and themselves, if they wish) in their Halloween finest, and come downtown to Trick or Treat. Between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 28, the sidewalks will be packed with children looking for a sweet handout. Close to 100 businesses will be displaying black and orange balloons at their doors, an invitation for kids to visit. The odds are really good that they will get a treat, not a trick. Even if you don’t have children, get yourself a coffee or cool drink, find a good place to sit, and watch the fun.
Diane Bishofberger, Bank of Marin Senior Relationship Manager for the Napa area, sat on the DNA board that considered adding this event. She is a diehard Disney fan and volunteered to lead the charge, and make sure
that the day was one that children would love (and that Mickey would be proud of.)
Thanks to the Bank of Marin staff, characters from some of your favorite children-oriented books and movies will be at Dwight Murray Plaza for photos. A backdrop will set the stage to make those pictures really pop. And of course, Bank staff will be passing out treats as well. What a perfect Halloween!
“People are so creative with their costumes, and the kids are just delightful. Some of the youngsters who trick or treated the initial years now have children of their own. It is a community, family fun, Fall afternoon.” said Anette Madsen, co-owner of Anette’s Chocolates, who has participated from the beginning.
When the event began, it was intended to provide children with a safe place to trick or treat. “The Downtown Napa Association (DNA) thought it would be a great idea to
offer downtown as that place, and the event was born,” said Bill LaLiberte, soon-to-be the Executive Director of the DNA. “And, it’s free,” he added with a laugh.
None of this would be possible without the local businesses, who buy candy by the ton just for this. We count on support from our sponsors, especially the Bank of Marin, whose staff spends countless hours making sure this event is one that kids will remember all year. And thank you to the Napa Valley Marketplace, who has supported this and all local downtown events from the beginning. And a big shout out to the residents of Napa who dress up in costume and join in the fun to make this a fun, frightening and ghoulish day.
The richly paneled walls, subtle lighting and soft music work in harmony with the bright copper behind the bar at Napa’s newest lounge, The Fink. It’s an unusual name for the refined surroundings. Isn’t “fink” a tattletale or informant?
“No, it was what my friends in college called me,” says The Fink proprietor, Judd Finkelstein. “My last name was just too long. They’d say, “Let’s have a drink with Fink.”’
If Judd’s name sounds familiar, perhaps it’s because you’re a fan of his namesake winery off Silverado Trail, Judd’s Hill Winery and MicroCrush. Founded by his parents, Bunnie and the late Art Finkelstein in 1989, the winery is now overseen by two generations of the family, Judd with his wife, Holly, and Bunnie.
Judd hasn’t stepped away from the winery to run The Fink.
“I’m absolutely involved in the winery, just not on site as much as before. I’m thankful
for the winery’s dedicated staff. Even before opening the bar, I was in awe of them. These are people who step up to do their jobs. I’ve made myself practically obsolete by hiring well.”
The jump from wine to cocktails took a circuitous route.
“I enjoy being creative,” he says. “I’ve liked bringing a story to a visual medium since I was nine years old. I thought television and the film industry was what I wanted to do. But after a few Hollywood and film projects, I did some soul searching and realized I wasn’t feeling fulfilled.”
“During a solo trip around the globe, I was thrust into unusual foreign experiences which gave me perspective. It sounds corny, but I realized what I was good at. What I wanted to do for a living was make people happy. I enjoy a social setting.”
Since he says he practically grew up in the Whitehall Winery barn where his father worked, he tried wine sales. He first started
at UC Davis, it turned out that I liked and was best at the hospitality side of wine.”
“The cocktail lounge idea came about because I wanted to create what I like, not someone else’s experience. That’s how I saw The Fink. There’s a bar for people who want to be in the heart of the action, there are high-top tables in the middle, semi-private booths and, for those who would rather be alone, a back lounge area that’s more private. Our permit allows minors on the premises, so it’s good for families.”
“Many people who know me are surprised The Fink is not a tiki bar, because they know my love of all things tiki. While there are a few elements of tiki in the décor and we use original Trader Vic’s cocktail recipes, the atmosphere is more subdued. It was a historic boathouse for the Napa Mill. The Napa River connected us to the rest of the world. So, maritime items decorate the space. Like a travel experience,
may appear with his tiki band, Maikai Gents, when everything settles into a routine at the lounge.
“I’m ready to have that music vibe.”
Judd says he became interested in mixing cocktails in college. He founded FOAM (Friends of Ardent Mixology) in 2004 and had a local bartender, Andrew Salazar, speak to the group several times. His excellent reputation in the valley earned him the moniker of Mr. Salazar. He’s worked at Terra, The Thomas and Miminashi.
“Andrew was first working in Tra Vigne when they happened to need a daytime bartender and he stepped up for the job. At the time, the popularity of craft cocktails here was low, but he made a study of them. The first drink I remember him making for me was a Negroni; it was great. There was a particular drink called a ‘Lambretta Rosa’ that Mr. Salazar had invented with seven ingredients. It
“Let’s have a drink with Fink!”
“On day one with our bartenders and servers, he gave everyone a notebook. He explained his philosophy and menu derivations before they make drinks. His reputation is respected in the valley. It’s like he’s got the wisdom of Obi-Wan Kenobi.”
Even though Judd had a vision for The Fink, the process from thought to finish was arduous. Chef Greg Cole, founder and former owner of Cole’s Chop House and Celadon, suggested the former Silos site. Talks with the landlord progressed well and Judd was on the verge of signing a contract for the space in March of 2020. Then COVID hit.
“It was the time of lockdown,” says Judd. “I must credit the Napa Mill folks. They were phenomenal and held the space for us even though the lease was not yet signed. When we finally got building permits, there were construction delays, supply chain issues and the builders couldn’t get their normal workers.”
The bar opened in July this year.
“Before I started on this journey, I talked to people all over California and the Napa Valley for input until all systems were a go,” Judd says and chuckles. “Before securing the current location, I spoke to a prominent Napa landlord. He told me that because he was my friend, he wanted to talk me out of it. Too many out-of-town landlords tried to start lounges and couldn’t make it work; the ownership didn’t know the locals. That’s not the case with us.”
“I want people to know that The Fink is a fun place. We’ve gotten nice comments that it’s a classy but not snooty joint. It’s great for cocktail artistry and a casual place to hang. We’re friendly and here for the community. I call it a neighborhood bar for the world traveler.”
The Fink is located at 730 Main Street, under the blue awning in the Napa River Inn Complex, and serves cocktails, wine, beer and light bites. The hours are Sunday-Thursday, 4 to 11 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 4 p.m. to midnight (which Judd calls a late-night oasis!).
by Kathleen Reynolds
Every quarter, for a nominal fee, the public is invited to attend a Writers’ Salon to meet and mix with local authors, listen to them read from their work and afterwards mingle over wine and light bites. The setting is the historic stone building that houses the colorful and eclectic Jessel Art Gallery on Atlas Peak Road.
“Jessel Miller graciously offered her gallery for the launch of my first novel, which was a lot of fun and well attended,” says Sasha Paulsen, writer of two novels, wine books and the former Napa Register’s Features Editor for almost 25 years. “People loved the beautiful setting. When my second novel came out, Jessel again said she’d like to host. I suggested that it would be great to invite several other authors. Five authors came and the turnout was phenomenal.”
“We realized it was something people wanted, and we decided to make it a regular event. Napa author Lenore Hirsch is known as someone who gets things done and she stepped in to organize. With author Paul Franson, we brainstormed the names
of other writers we could invite.”
The first salon was October of 2022, followed by salons in February, May and July of 2023. The next scheduled event is October 7 starting at 5:00 pm. For $10 (children are free) to cover the cost of set up, staffing and refreshments, attendees meet the authors, listen to them discuss and read excerpts from their books, ask questions and enjoy wine and snacks while having their books autographed.
The origins of a “salon” date to the royally sanctioned Paris Salon, the official art exhibition of the Académie des Beaux-Arts beginning in 1667. Exhibition at the Salon de Paris was not only a mark of royal favor but was essential for any artist to achieve success in France. The French word for “living room” is also salon, which inspired a different style of gatherings in Paris in the 19th century, when hostesses competed to bring storytellers to their homes to inspire intellectual and social life.
Authors who have read at Napa’s Writers’ Salon include Linda Sheehan, Marianne Lyon, Henry Michalski, Rob Bundschu,
The origins of a “salon” date to the royally sanctioned Paris Salon, the official art exhibition of the Académie des Beaux-Arts beginning in 1667.
of money on fancy marketing for their books, but I think that books sell by word of mouth.”
“The audience is made of folks who’ve already read the book, people discovering new authors and those who may want to write a book of their own. Unpublished authors can get inspired hearinghow others find time to write, their writing habits and other practical ideas.”
“Lots of people feel like they have a book inside their head, but the publishing scene is not interested in opening doors for new writers. Editors want a sure thing, like a book by Prince Harry. Some writers struggle for years to find an agent and publisher. They learn they can write their book, self-publish and put it out there.”
Sasha continues, “For those who are seasoned writers, attending these events is an opportunity to step out and connect with other writers. Writing is
authors and get their books signed. Jessel takes the readers’ books on consignment and creates a space for them.”
Sasha agrees and says, “Jessel is supportive of artists and has been generous to share her space with other artists, including writers. She has an idea a minute and is so talented herself. She creates a world where everyone is welcome. To rent space for the Writers’ Salon would have been impossible.”
Jessel Miller herself has written and illustrated six books and is working on a novel.
Everybody has a different story.”
Lenore Hirsch is a retired educator, novelist and the founding president of the Napa Valley Writers, a branch of the California Writers Club.
“The Writers’ Salon inspires new writers. It connects them with other people or perhaps into a critique group. The primary goal is to never give up; keep writing. They hear from authors what went wrong in a work and how they fixed it, their writing practice or an idea for a book. It attracts readers, too, who are interested in meeting real authors.”
“The salons have been lovely with time before and afterwards to talk to the
“The written word is art; the same with music,” says Jessel. “I loved hosting the signing and reading of Sasha’s books and wondered why we weren’t sharing this with the community? We only have so much time in life to do what needs to be done. They design the programs and get the writers; I supply the space.”
“People are hungry for this,” she continues. “It’s so cool to watch everyone in the room sitting and listening. We’ve had 70 attendees at times. Where otherwise would writers have a major stage? We do whatever we can do to enhance the art.”
What do the creators want people to know about the Writers’ Salon?
“It’s not just the literary crowd,” says Lenore. “It’s for everyone with an open mind to new stories and new people. It’s a magical place; we’re not a stuck up or snobby crowd; we welcome everyone.”
Michael Waterson, Barbara Toboni, Jessel Miller, Sasha Paulsen, Lenore Hirsch, Paul Franson, Amber Starfire, Paul Wagner, Aletheia Morden, Rebecca
“It’s a fun and interesting evening...” ~ Sasha Paulsen
Sat. October 21st • 9 am – 1 pm
820 Levitin Way
American Canyon 94503
Select your guided tour time when registering for the event
Please note that rainy weather may require event cancellation
Make Halloween Eek-o-friendly
RSVP: https://mdftours.eventbrite.com
City of Napa will re-distribute donated costumes at events pre-Halloween & next Halloween. Check out these popular events:
• Farmer’s Market Tuesdays in Oct; Sat Oct 7 & 28; Sat Nov 4
• The Fire Department’s Fire & Life Safety Day Event Sat Oct 14
• America Recycles Day Coat and Costume Drive Sun Nov 12 New to You Costume Racks and Donation Boxes are at:
• The County Library • Children’s Area
• County Health and Human Services Building • Provisions Cafe
• Las Flores Community Center • Lobby
• Community Resources for Children • Donation Box Only
✔ Check naparecycling.com/ Halloween for updated details about costume dropoff locations, Community Costume Exchange rack locations, and events!
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To submit your event request, visit napavalleymarketplace.com/submit-an-event
OCTOBER 6, 13 AND 20
NAPA FORCE FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Napa Force Lacrosse is thrilled to announce its "Friday Night Lights" free lacrosse clinic. This event offers everyone a chance to dive deep into the world of lacrosse and discover its joys. This is designed to cater to both novices and seasoned lacrosse enthusiasts. For boys and girls aged 7 to 14 years old. No experience or equipment necessary. napaforce.com
OCTOBER 7
NAPA BLUES BREWS AND BBQ
TEAM Morales Events is bringing back Napa Blues, Brews and BBQ – and it’s free to enter the event! Beer Garden bracelets are on sale now. A Bay Area favorite in its 12th year, with an average attendance of 10,000 people for this one-day event. Bringing delicious BBQ food, live blues music from some of the Bay Area’s best musicians, and of course amazing craft beer to the Napa Valley Expo from 12 to 6 pm. napabluesandbrew.com
OCTOBER 14
17TH ANNUAL LOBSTERFEST
Join Soroptimist of Napa from 6 to 10 pm at Napa Expo’s Chardonnay Hall. Enjoy a fun evening of great food and drinks, amazing auction items, and terrific prizes. Proceeds benefit local programs helping women and girls with access to opportunity and education. soroptimistnapa.org
OCTOBER 21
ST. HELENA HOMETOWN HARVEST FESTIVAL
Join the community for a fun run and 5K in the morning, followed by the annual Harvest Festival from 10 am to 4 pm. Enjoy artisan vendors, food and wine, a kids’ area, live music, and the famous Pet Pawrade! cityofsthelena.org/ harvestfestival
OCTOBER 28
NOCHE DE CATRINAS FUNDRAISER GALA
Fair Housing Napa Valley invites you to a fun and vibrant
17th Annual LOBSTER FEST!
A
October 14 | 6 pm
Chardonnay Hall, Napa Valley Expo
Live & Silent Auctions
Dessert Bar Party Games
DJ and Dancing
No-host Wine & Martini Bar
Soroptimistnapa.org
Tickets $150 Scan code to purchase
night of food, wine and dancing in support of vital housing services for the residents of Napa County. Start your night with a delicious dinner and cocktails, followed by a Catrina fashion show and costume competition. Participate in auctions, and dance your night away! catrina.eventbrite.com
OCTOBER 28
HOMETOWN HALLOWEEN
From sweet to spooky, you’ll have a boo-tiful time at this year’s festival. Coordinate costumes as a family or just the kiddos for trick or treating. Just head to the Oxbow Commons and other areas of Downtown Napa, look for the black and orange balloons and have yourself a fright at 75+ businesses from 11 am to 1 pm. donapa.com
Visit NapaMoms.org for more information about membership, events, sponsorship, and more.
Wildfire activity in California has trended down over the past two years due primarily to mitigation actions and weather conditions.
As Napa County enters peak wildfire season, the Napa Communities Firewise Foundation (Napa Firewise) is here to help residents understand and reduce the threat of wildfire. Visit napafirewise.org to learn how to help mitigate wildfire risk and impacts countywide. Download free custom parcel and neighborhood maps from the Napa County Wildfire Fuel Mapper (wildfirefuelmapper. org) for information and to see where to manage vegetation to create defensible space around structures.
“We’re about 10% in better condition from a moisture content than this time last year,” according to Napa Firewise Board Chair Christopher Thompson. “That’s good, but it will only take a good wind event to put us on par with fuel moisture levels that are considered ‘critical.’ September and October are the worst months for fire season, and it’s in no way a time to let down our guard.”
During a September 12 presentation to the Napa County Board of Supervisors, Napa County Deputy Fire Chief, Jason Martin, highlighted ongoing efforts throughout Napa County regarding fire preparedness and fire resiliency.
The Wildfire Fuel Mapper helps residents and Fire Safe Councils see vegetation within defensible space zones, provides information for vegetation treatment planning, and connect
with experts who can customize a vegetation management plan. By removing fuel sources to keep wildfire flames low to the ground, and away from structures, the outcomes are fewer, smaller, and less damaging fires.
Martin explained, “We have a new tool that is available to the public… it allows a homeowner to go in and put in their address and get a report on what type of defensible space is required for their property, and it gives them some guidance on how to achieve such a goal.”
This year, 83 miles of roadside have been cleared, 197 acres of goat and sheep grazing have reduced fuel loads, and approximately 3,500 piles of debris were removed with funding from Napa County, CAL FIRE, PG&E, Napa Valley Community Foundation, and other donors. Napa Valley Vintners funded the creation of 41 miles of fire breaks to provide strategic perimeters around
residential communities throughout Napa County.
Martin highlighted the progress made to protect the community of Circle Oaks. In partnership with Napa Firewise, Circle Oaks Fire Safe Council, Circle Oaks Homeowners Association, and community members, Napa County has provided an initial inspections assessment. Property owners are notified if their property is out of compliance with Napa County’s Defensible Space Ordinance and are informed about what steps need to be taken to mitigate those conditions.
This spring, the 2021 Shaded Fuel Break providing protection around the perimeter of the Circle Oaks Community was maintained with $140,000 in CAL FIRE funding. Napa Firewise crews cut a new fire access road that encompasses the western flank of the sub-division.
Napa Firewise also coordinated with neighboring property owners
and the Napa Land Trust to re-establish 13 miles of dozer lines to thin and clean the roads, so firefighters can gain access to the community from Atlas Peak Road. These roads also can be used to hold fire away from affecting the Circle Oaks Community.
Another location that has received fire resiliency treatments is Berryessa Highlands, where 144 acres were cleared with sheep grazing. Crews also implemented five miles of dozer lines around the perimeter of the community, with more lines to be built.
“We can’t do this alone. This takes a lot of organization among partners and other agencies,” Martin emphasized, citing a Fuels Reduction Project being implemented in coordination with the California Veterans Home in Yountville, Napa Firewise, and CAL FIRE’s Hood Mountain firefighter hand crew to provide a Shaded Fuel Break on the west side of the sprawling State-owned facility.
“This provides us protection not only for the Veterans Home and their property and buildings, but also the Town of Yountville itself,” Martin said.
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HARVEST -InternationalBaccalaureate(IB)/DualLanguageImmersion
BELAIREPARK -InternationalBaccalaureate(IB)/CommunicationandMedia
HARVEST -InternationalBaccalaureate(IB)/DualLanguageImmersion
NAPAJUNCTION -Science,Technology,Engineering,andMath(STEM)
HARVEST -InternationalBaccalaureate(IB)/DualLanguageImmersion
NAPAJUNCTION -Science,Technology,Engineering,andMath(STEM)
PHILLIPS -Leadership,Engineering,andArtDesign(LEAD)
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PHILLIPS -Leadership,Engineering,andArtDesign(LEAD)
BEL AIRE PARK: International Baccalaureate & Communication and Media
PUEBLOVISTA -DualLanguageImmersion/EnvironmentalSciences
NAPA JUNCTION: Science, Technology, Engineering & Math
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“Monarchs are what we call a flagship species for conservation.”
~ Erin
The vividly colored monarch butterfly is recognizable by its large size of 3½ -4 inches, its deep orange wings with black borders and veins and the tiny white spots that dot its perimeter. While a delicate and graceful insect, it is also capable of traveling 3,000 miles to overwinter in favorable habitats.
It may also become an extinction statistic.
According to the National Wildlife Federation, the western monarch population has declined by over 80% since the 1990s. The most significant impacts to monarch butterflies come from the loss of habitat for breeding, migrating and overwintering. In addition, indiscriminate use of chemicals to control insects and weeds can have harmful unintended consequences for monarchs; a changing climate is making some habitat less suitable and forcing changes in migratory patterns; and monarchs face many risks from natural enemies such as predators, parasitoids and diseases.
The Monarch Joint Venture is an organization focusing on the conservation, education and research needed to rebuild and safeguard monarch butterfly and pollinator habitats across the country. Western
Program Coordinator for the Monarch Joint Venture is Erin Arnsteen. We spoke to her about the importance of monarchs.
“Monarchs are what we call a flagship species for conservation,” said Erin, whose interest in insects started as a child and for monarchs when she and her husband became organic farmers. “This means that monarchs are well-known and very likable, so people are more likely to get involved in working to protect them. By promoting habitat restoration for monarchs, other pollinators and wildlife species also benefit.”
“It’s important to notice and act on the fact that the monarch populations are declining because monarchs are also an indicator species, which means that because monarchs need the same habitats (native milkweed and other nectar flowers) as many other pollinators, and even other wildlife, and many people are paying attention to monarchs, they are an indication of what’s happening to other lesserknown species. Therefore, if monarchs are in trouble because they don’t have enough habitat, then many of our other native pollinators
and wildlife that share their habitat are in trouble as well. Because they are so well known and their decline is easy to see, monarchs are like the proverbial ‘canary in the coal mine’ for pollinators.”
Can monarchs be seen in Napa County and if so, when?
“Yes, monarch butterflies do visit Napa County. The Monarch Joint Venture collaborated with other partner organizations to develop the Priority Action Zones Map for Monarch Butterflies. Napa County falls in the Priority 1 Action Zone, which means we can see monarchs early in the season as they leave their coastal overwintering sites seeking
“Because monarchs may be in our area for so many months out of the year, it is essential that we provide healthy habitat for them at all stages of their life. This means having native blooming flowers from which they eat the nectar and milkweed for their caterpillars to eat.”
SOME OF HER FAVORITE NATIVE NECTAR FLOWERS BY SEASON: EARLY
Manzanita • Ceanothus or “Buck Brush” • California Buckeye
MID
Coyote Mint • Black Sage & Gumplant
LATE
California Aster • California
Goldenrod • Coyote Brush
There are 4 species of milkweed native to our area here in Napa County that caterpillars will eat (adults will also feed off the nectar of these diverse species): Heart Leaf Milkweed, Narrow Leaf Milkweed, Woollypod Milkweed, Showy Milkweed and Heart Leaf Milkweed.
The best time to plant milkweed seeds and plants is in the late fall right before the first rains so the plants and seed can acclimate to the local temperature changes and take advantage of winter rain. Seeds need to experience the cold temperatures of winter to grow, a process called stratification. If you have irrigation, milkweed plants can be planted anytime in the spring after the final frost through the fall before the first frost. Native milkweed is a deciduous perennial and will lose all its leaves in the late fall, go dormant in the winter, and reemerge in the spring. Once the plants lose all their leaves, cut the stems down to about 3 inches from the ground to prevent any bacteria from growing on overwintering stems, which could be harmful to next year’s caterpillars.
food, mates and milkweed, during the mid-season as they feed, mate and lay eggs on milkweed plants and late in the season as they feed and fly back to their overwintering sites along the coast. With a warming climate, monarchs may now be active in our area any time between February through early December. I see the most monarch activity in my garden between late July and late September.”
Erin will present a program on monarchs through the Yountville Parks and Recreation Department on Tuesday, October 17, from Noon to 1:30 at the Yountville Community Center. For more information, visit yvilleparksandrec.com or call (707) 944-8712.
“For the program, I will be covering the monarch life cycle, migration and monarch mimics (butterflies that are often mistaken for monarchs) and their host plants, so community members can more easily identify monarchs and understand what else they can plant to attract even more butterfly species.”
Erin co-founded the Western Monarch Society of Napa County in 2020 with the main goal of growing more locally native habitat for all pollinators with a special focus on monarch butterflies. Over the past three years, they have grown and given away approximately 25,000 native milkweed plants to community members and farmers in Napa, Mendocino, Lake and Yolo Counties.
She runs the Monarchs & More Western Habitat Program at Monarch
Where can locals find milkweed plants for the monarchs?
“The Western Monarch Society of Napa County gives away free organically grown native milkweed plugs each spring and early summer at the St. Helena Farmers Market and sometimes at the Napa Farmers’ Market while supplies last. Folks can visit westernmonarchs.org to see when the giveaway will be next Spring. Otherwise, a few other local places to get organically grown native plants are the Napa Valley Chapter of the Native Plants Society Native Plants Sale which usually occurs in April or, if you’re up for a short drive, there are a couple of nurseries that specialize in California native plants and carry native milkweed:
California Flora Nursery in Fulton, Oaktown Nursery in Berkeley and Watershed Nursery in Richmond. Places to get seed are Larner Seeds in Bolinas and Hedgerow Farms in Winters.”
There are several important things about monarchs that Erin wants people to know.
1. It is illegal to handle monarchs in the state of California without a special permit. This includes any life stage egg, caterpillar, adult butterfly and any type of movement or alteration, so you should not bring caterpillars inside your home, rear caterpillars or even put cages around plants to protect caterpillars.
2. Milkweed is the only plant the monarch caterpillar will eat, plant it and let it be eaten by caterpillars. Don’t apply any pesticides (organic or otherwise including
because they don’t die back. When a caterpillar comes along the following season, it could ingest that bacteria and develop a nasty disease that can cause growth deformities and death in monarchs. More about this at monarchparasites.org.
byWendyCaldwell“I have several suggestions to make a direct impact for monarch butterflies in our area. Please help us create native monarch and pollinator habitat at scale and please participate in or donate to the MJV Monarchs & More Western Habitat Program (M&MWHP). Individuals interested in participating in the M&MWHP must have 1/4 acre to dedicate to pollinator habitat and can submit an interest form online. If you don’t have a large space for habitat, please consider donating to the M&MWHP. We want to make this program self-sustaining for years to come so that we may provide the highest quality regionally appropriate plants for monarchs and other pollinators for future generations. Donations can be made specifically to the Monarchs & More Western Habitat Program and this money will go directly to planting more habitat throughout the entire state of California including right here in Napa County. For details on donations and other information, check the website bit.ly/WesternHabitat.”
Asclepias tuberosa) in Napa County. Native species are already adapted to our local climate and die back in the winter, whereas tropical varieties tend not to die back during our mild winters. If the plant material is left to grow through the wet winters, these plants can harbor bad bacteria and protozoa that linger on the plants
Monarch Chrysalis
HOUSEHOLD MEDICATIONS can be dropped off year-round at the following locations in Napa County. No business waste is accepted. You can also check with your pharmacy to see if they accept medications. Please remove personal information from the medication containers before dropping off.
Hazardous Waste Collection Facility
Year-Round Location Safeway
889A Devlin Road, American Canyon • 1-800-984-9661
Year-Round Locations
3375 Jefferson St, Napa • (707) 225-3037
103 American Canyon Rd, American Canyon • (707) 649-5150
Kaiser Permanente Napa Pharmacy
Sharps & Needles
RESIDENTIAL SYRINGES / SHARPS LOCATIONS
Sharps must be in puncture-resistant containers
Year-Round
Hazardous Waste Collection Facility
889A Devlin Road, American Canyon • 1-800-984-9661
Friday & Saturday 9am – 4pm
Napa County Public Health
2751 Napa Valley Corporate Drive, Building B
Public Health Immunization Clinic • (707) 253-4270
Clover Flat Landfill
4380 Silverado Trail, Calistoga • (707) 963-7988
For year-round drop-off information: naparecycling.com/medicine naparecycling.com/needles-and-sharps
LEARN MORE
takebackdrugs.org
National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day: www.dea.gov
Local information: www.naparecycling.com/medicine
Friday & Saturday 9am – 4pm NODRUGSDOWNTHEDRAIN! NOSHARPSINTHETRASH!
3285 Claremont Way, Napa • (707) 258-4440
Rite Aid
1203 West Imola Ave, Napa • (707) 255-4218
CVS Pharmacy
675 Trancas St, Napa • (707) 252-2844 1558 Trancas St, Napa • (707) 253-7918
Napa County Sheriff’s Office (lower lobby) 1535 Airport Blvd, Napa • (707) 253-4256
Calistoga Police Station 1235 Washington Street, Calistoga • (707) 942-2810
St Helena Police Station
1088 College Ave, St. Helena • (707) 967-2850
American Canyon Police Department (front lobby) 911 Donaldson Way E, American Canyon • (707) 551-0600
Yountville Sheriff Station 1950 Mulberry St, Yountville • (707) 944-9228
(Use call box at front door for access)
• CalRecycle.ca.gov
Sponsored by: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) City of Napa, Napa County, Kaiser Permanente, Napa Sanitation District, Upper Valley Waste Management Agency, and Napa County Sheriff’s Office
Please
HHomayoun Faghihishirazi, M.D., knew he would have a long road to recovery after undergoing cervical spinal fusion surgery in March 2023. The major surgery and subsequent complications meant the 79-year-old psychiatrist would need to relearn how to walk, speak and use his hands before returning to his Fairfield, Calif. home.
“I could hardly walk, and I definitely couldn’t shower, feed or dress myself,” Faghihishirazi said.
While searching for rehabilitation facilities, Faghihishirazi and his wife, Connie Shirazi Anderson, discovered the Acute Rehabilitation Unit (ARU) at Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center. The 14-bed facility provides intensive, individualized therapy, with a focus on restoring patients’ functional independence to the greatest extent possible so they can safely transition home.
“It was a no-brainer to choose the facility, and we are so thankful we went there,” Shirazi Anderson said. “I think it’s one of the best kept secrets in Napa Valley.”
Unique in its approach to care, the hospital-based ARU allows highly trained specialists and nurses to take on patients with more complex needs and begin rehabilitation earlier. According to ARU Medical Director Alex Miner, D.O., this approach is proven to increase the body’s tolerance for upright activities, strengthen muscles, boost overall health and improve a patient’s state of mind.
“The ARU is a truly inspirational part of the medical system where patients and their families are given the opportunity to improve their strength, independence and knowledge on how to succeed at home with an often emotionally and physically challenging new disability,” Dr. Miner said. “These disabilities can
be temporary or longer lasting, but acute rehabilitation invests the most resources available to support them after discharge.”
And unlike traditional skilled nursing facilities, the ARU offers more medical oversight to patients who undergo a combination of physical, occupational and speech therapies five to six times a week for three hours each day. Therapies begin at 7 a.m. and often continue until 3:30 p.m., with time for recovery in between.
“We have a dedicated team that works hard to help patients achieve their goals so they can return safely to their homes,” said Brandi Castillo, RN, BSN, nurse manager of the ARU. “We personalize their care and treatment to best fit their needs and promote recovery.”
Faghihishirazi experienced this personalized approach to rehabilitation first-hand. Throughout his stay, he met with an interdisciplinary team of experts, including a physiatrist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech language pathologist, social worker, dietician and dedicated rehabilitation nursing staff. His wife also remained present throughout his recovery, encouraged by the ARU team to sit in on daily sessions, ask questions and play an active role in recovery.
“Therapy is key in recovery,” said Shirazi Anderson, who was a nurse for several decades. “We had an absolute stellar experience with all of the therapists and nurses.”
The couple were also struck by the atmosphere in the center, where every staff member was engaged, treating their patients with a positive attitude to ensure the best outcomes.
“In small cities like ours you do not see may rehab facilities, and we are lucky to be able to offer the services we do to our community,” Castillo said.
After being discharged home, Faghihishirazi found a continuity of care in the Queen’s Outpatient Rehabilitation program, which is located next to the hospital in the Napa Wellness Center. The program offers a seamless transition from the inpatient program, utilizing a customized care plan that allows patients like Faghihishirazi to build on their progress and further their recovery.
“They provide written and verbal instructions, show you how to complete the exercise and have you practice with them,” Faghihishirazi said. “They are very patient-centered. You don’t see this approach in many other facilities.”
The outpatient program also has a “family” feel with a committed team of therapists who have been at the Queen for 15 to 20 years or more. According to Outpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Manager Michael Smith, PT, DPT, OCS, that collective experience benefits patients in several ways.
“Not only is it wisdom that we can draw on, but it means people are happy here—and happy providers provide better care,” he said. “We are part of the fabric of the Napa Valley community, taking care of our neighbors, friends and kids, which is very fulfilling.”
Today, Faghihishirazi has returned to his independent life and continues to build his strength and mobility, due in large part to the continued treatment in the outpatient rehab program. The results are what he and his wife only dreamed of earlier this year.
“Without the Acute Rehab, we wouldn’t have been able to get back to where we are today,” Shirazi Anderson said. “It was lifesaving and lifechanging.”
After patients are discharged from the in-patient Acute Rehab Unit, they may continue receiving individualized therapy at the Queen’s Outpatient Rehab facility. The program’s highly skilled, interdisciplinary team treats a wide range of diagnoses and conditions, offering a combination of focused exercises, hands-on techniques, pain relief, movement and education.
Conveniently located next to the hospital, the Outpatient Rehab facility features state-of-the-art equipment – including exercise equipment and a therapy pool – to help patients reach their maximum potential for leading an independent life.
“I’ve been doing this for over 20 years now and it’s still so rewarding to help someone through a tough time or help them recover from injury, surgery or illness,” said Outpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Manager Michael Smith, PT, DPT, OCS. “It’s fulfilling to be part of a team that collectively takes care of our own community.” Therapy offered in the Outpatient Rehab program includes:
• Physical Therapy – Assisting patients with all aspects of mobility, such as strengthening, range of motion and improving endurance.
• Occupational Therapy – Increasing patients’ independence for activities of daily living including eating, grooming, bathing or dressing.
• Speech Language Pathology – Addressing communication, speech and swallowing difficulties such as difficulty speaking, reasoning, understanding, reading or writing.
Learn more about the Queen’s Acute Rehab Center by visiting www.providence.org/NapaAcuteRehab.
No matter a patient’s medical condition, the Queen’s diverse group of licensed therapists are prepared to develop a customized solution to return them to optimum health.
On my honor, I will try: To serve God* and my country, To help people at all times, And to live by the Girl Scout Law. *Members may substitute for the word God and/or country in accordance with their own beliefs. For example, they could substitute that line to say, “To serve my community.”
On my honor, I will try: To support my Girl Scout and her troop, To help girls lead at all times, And to always keep it fun!
I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.
Do you know about the Girl Scouts of America? I did, having started with the Brownies in Kindergarten (it was 1959 and if you don’t think it’s hard to spell “Eisenhower” before the first grade, think again). I got my wings and “flew up” to Juniors around the third grade. While those designations have changed, that’s just the start of the new Girl Scouts. Oh, and they do more than sell cookies.
Today’s Girl Scouts are aware of and work towards diversity, equity, inclusion and
belonging. According to the Girl Scouts Northern California website, gsnorcal.org, they believe in building an antiracist future. They strive to make sure everyone is represented, seeing that everyone has what they need to participate and that everyone feels safe speaking and being heard. In short, they do this by asking, “Does everyone feel accepted even when we do not always agree? Can everyone share their differences openly, without judgment or defensiveness, while focusing on our connections?”
In the Napa area, we have 11 active troops, with over 150 Girl Scouts. Amy Herzog is a Leader in Napa Troop 11025. The troop started in 2016, with the Napa Methodist
Church as the founding charter organization, providing meeting space and volunteer troop liaisons.
“We have 30 troop members,” says Amy, who was part of the group who began the club. “We have co-leaders, several for the multiple levels in the troop.”
The different groups go by grade level. Daisies are K-1, Brownies grades 2-3, Juniors grades 4-5, Cadettes grades 6-8, Seniors grades 9-10 and Ambassadors grades 11-12. As a Girl Scout progresses, every level builds upon the last, so they can explore meaningful interests in an age-appropriate way.
“Our troop and other local troops help the community through cookie donations to the Food Bank, when people buy an extra box or more to
donate,” says Amy. “We have helped with Operation Love from Home packages, river cleanup, and creating toys and blankets for the Animal shelter. Pre-COVID, we joined other troops in singing Christmas carols to residents of the Veteran’s Home in Yountville.”
“We also participate in the overnight Girl Scout Camporee. That used to be held at the campground on Mt. Veeder, which unfortunately burned down in the fires there. Lately it’s been held at various locations including Skyline Park or the campgrounds at Lake Berryessa.”
Troop 11025 strives to continue the Girl Scout mission of building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place.
Katherine Fleming is the Service Unit Coordinator for the Napa area. She explains the governance of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America is run by Councils, and each Council is made up of Service Units. The Service Units in our region are part of the Girl Scouts of Northern California Council. The Girl Scout council is the organization which receives non-profit status.
“At our Napa Service Unit level, we emphasize helping with Operation Love From Home and laying flags on Memorial Day at the Veterans Home. Girl Scouts from our Service Unit acted as the Honor Guard for the City of Napa’s Fourth of July Celebration as well.”
“Each troop decides on the goals they want to pursue, badges they want to earn, and service work they will perform. The members decide on activities and how they will use the money they earn from selling cookies.”
“This year the cookie sales proceeds were fantastic; the Girl Scouts put a lot of work into it and it pays off. Between 15-20 older (6th-12th grade) local Napa Girl Scouts will take the trip of a lifetime to go to the Galapagos Islands funded partially by cookie sales and sales of other products in the fall to bring down the cost.”
There is a common misconception.
“Some people think the Girl Scouts just do a lot of arts and crafts. Our members do love being creative but that also ties into exploring engineering, robotics, camping and other adventures. Girl Scouts gives them a safe space to explore.”
The NorCal website cites the reasons to join Girl Scouts as 1) to have fun, 2) make friends, 3) try new things, 4) use your voice and 5) make the world a better place. Having fun means having a place to be yourself
with people who will cheer you on. Girl Scouts make friends through joining a troop, going to summer camp or participating in a service project to meet people from their neighborhood, community and nearby schools. They are encouraged to try new adventures with a friend or the troop.
The site suggests giving back to the community by restocking the local food pantry, beautifying the school grounds or lobbying for change at a City Council meeting.
“We have a recruitment event in the fall, usually in September at Kennedy Park,” says Katherine. “Otherwise, there is enrollment information on the Northern California Girl Scout website at gsnorcal.org.”
To join a local group is simple and financial aid is available. Membership dues are $40 per year for children and $25 a year for adults. Need-based aid is available to help with membership dues, adult membership registration and background checks and uniforms. gsnorcal.org
Napa County has participated in the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) since 2013. This partnership has helped Napa County residents save money, save energy and create more comfortable homes.
BayREN strives to fill energy saving equity gaps through flexible and innovative programs. These programs were built on local government values and serve residents’ needs.
• 490 single-family homes with rebates on home upgrades
• Seven multi-family apartment buildings with 497 energy efficient units
•Completed 225 Home Energy Score assessments
•Conducted contractor trainings focused on energy savings through Codes and Standards
In the last ten years, Napa County BayREN has enhanced energy savings of homes and buildings:
Bring comfort to your own home while saving money and energy.
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