NapaValleyMagazineMarrch2026

Exquisite Care, Elevated Living

Discreet, personalized support designed to honor your independence.

You deserve a lifestyle that feels effortless, elevated, and entirely your own.

At Calligraphy Napa Valley, Assisted Living is thoughtfully reimagined to provide just the right level of support, delivered with grace, discretion, and respect for your individuality. Here, care blends seamlessly into daily life. Whether it is a gentle reminder, a helping hand, or personalized wellness support, our highly trained professionals are always there, quietly ensuring your comfort and confidence while preserving your independence and privacy.

Every detail, from refined residences and exceptional dining to enriching experiences and holistic wellness, is designed to help you live fully, beautifully, and on your terms.

Discover a community where care is felt, not seen, and every day is elevated by thoughtful attention and timeless hospitality.

proposed changes to shape, alignment, and overall smile balance. Instead of relying on imagination alone, patients view realistic simulations that allow them to ask questions, request adjustments, or decide to wait, without pressure.

The doctors emphasized that this process puts control firmly in the patient’s hands. Cosmetic dentistry becomes a collaborative experience, shaped by personal comfort levels and aesthetic goals. When patients can visualize outcomes in advance, decisions feel intentional and empowering.

Seeing and Understanding Dental Care:

Vineyard Dental Spa

Where Beauty Meets Calm: A New Era of Cosmetic Dentistry in Napa

For more than 30 years, Vineyard Dental Spa has cared for Napa Valley patients with a focus on trust, comfort, and long-term oral health. As dentistry has evolved, the practice has refined its approach to create an experience that feels calm, thoughtful, and empowering, especially for patients considering cosmetic dentistry.

When we sat down with the doctors at Vineyard Dental Spa, one theme came up repeatedly: patients feel more at ease when they are informed, involved, and never rushed into decisions.

Reducing Anxiety Through Clarity and Efficiency:

Modern dentistry has allowed care to become quieter, more predictable, and far less stressful. Comfortable digital scanning has replaced traditional impressions, removing much of the discomfort patients

once associated with dental visits. Appointments are smoother and more efficient, helping patients feel relaxed and confident about what to expect.

Same-day crown technology further supports this easy experience. Completing care in a single visit eliminates temporary restorations and repeat appointments, reducing disruption to daily life. Less chair time and fewer visits make dental care feel manageable rather than overwhelming.

Cosmetic Dentistry With Confidence and Control:

Cosmetic dentistry is often where patients feel the most uncertainty. Vineyard Dental Spa addresses this by ensuring patients can see their potential results before treatment begins.

Through smile design planning, patients are guided through visual previews of

Careful planning allows treatments to feel measured and intentional, aligning with the practice’s wellness-centered philosophy.

Calm, Spa-Inspired Dentistry:

The environment at Vineyard Dental Spa reflects a commitment to mindfulness and transparency. A calm setting, clear communication and thoughtful pacing help patients feel at ease from the moment they arrive.

By minimizing surprises and emphasizing understanding, dentistry becomes a more peaceful experience, one that respects both time and well-being.

Clear visuals play an important role beyond cosmetic treatment. High-quality imaging and photography allow patients to view their dental health alongside their dentist. Conditions and recommendations are explained clearly, creating shared understanding rather than confusion. This approach builds trust. Patients feel confident knowing why a treatment is recommended and how it supports longterm health and beauty.

Thoughtful Planning and Natural Results:

Care at Vineyard Dental Spa focuses on preserving natural tooth structure whenever possible. Restorations are planned with precision to improve function and appearance while maintaining a natural look and feel. Materials are chosen to blend seamlessly, supporting longlasting and authentic results.

Getting to Know the Doctors:

During our conversation, we asked each doctor a personal question:

With all the advanced technology at Vineyard Dental, what matters most to you personally?

Dr. Azizi: What matters most is how our patients feel when they walk out the door. Technology is not about having the newest device in the room. It is about reducing uncertainty, shortening appointments, minimizing discomfort and helping patients feel comfortable and confident. When someone tells us, “That was easier than I expected,” that is the real return on investment. If our technology reduces stress and builds trust, then it has done its job.

Which aspect of cosmetic care do you feel most reassures patients before they begin treatment?

Dr. Seeberger: I think, in regards to cosmetic dentistry, photos are worth a

thousand words. Most patients have a concern when it comes to something they want to address with their smile. This could be something as simple as a chipped front tooth. Seeing a before and after photo for a procedure they are interested in affirms that this is something they would like addressed, and builds confidence in the work that the dentist is to do.

What do patients seem most relieved by once they experience care here?

Dr. Ma: Patients often tell me they feel the most relief that they’ve found a dentist they can truly trust and rely on. Many come in feeling anxious or fearful, and after experiencing care here, they feel supported, listened to, and safe. They’re relieved to know their comfort is prioritized, procedures are explained clearly, and they’re never rushed or judged. Over time, that trust and gentle, comfortable care create a relationship where patients feel at ease coming back and confident about their smile and oral health.

Dentistry Designed to Feel Personal: At Vineyard Dental Spa, dentistry is designed to feel calm, refined, and personal. By blending experience with thoughtful planning and visual clarity, the practice offers cosmetic dentistry, no-prep

veneers, Invisalign, dental implants, and sleep apnea solutions.

Vineyard Dental is conveniently located directly across Queen of the Valley Medical Center at 1103 Trancas Street in Napa.

Want to know more about Vineyard Dental? Visit them online at: YourNapaDentist.com or call (707) 255-1172 for an appointment.

BEING SMART WITH YOUR MORTGAGE & TAXES THIS YEAR

By Kathleen Reynolds

This was going to be the year you finally got a handle on your money. So, in the words of Dr. Phil, “How’s that working for you?”

For most households, “finance” isn’t just Wall Street jargon. It’s the day‑to‑day reality of budgeting, banking, insurance, investments, retirement, and even estate planning. To keep it grounded, let’s zoom in on two big pillars of family finance: mortgages and taxes.

For generations, buying a home has been seen as one of the most reliable paths to building wealth. Done thoughtfully, it can lead to long‑term appreciation, equity, and a greater sense of financial stability. Buying isn’t the right move for everyone, but if you’ve done your homework and

homeownership is on your radar, the next question is: what should you look for in a mortgage company?

According to Forbes.com, “The advantage of homeownership is not just the property you own (or are mortgaging) but the financial mindset that helped you arrive there. In other words, you have to be financially responsible to own a home: you have to save for a down payment, qualify for a mortgage and budget for homeownership costs like taxes and insurance.”

So, what exactly does a mortgage company do—and how do you know you’ve found a good one?

Chris Salese is the branch manager for Del Sur Mortgage located in Napa

values appreciate, owners can benefit from that growth when they choose to sell, often turning a significant profit.

Chris also wants to clear up some of the myths that keep potential buyers on the sidelines. (Regardless of what you might hear) he says, “You do not need 20% for a downpayment on a home, credit inquiries are not the most impactful item on your credit report, and the FED Reserve does not directly impact home loan rates.”

The area where he urges absolute honesty is how you plan to use the property.

“Clients should absolutely not try to mislead their lender about how they plan to live in their home (or use their property) in an attempt to circumvent the system for a lower interest rate.”

When it comes to getting “mortgage‑ready,” Chris focuses on fundamentals.

often outweigh those concerns. Appreciation, equity building, and greater financial stability make buying a home a compelling investment for many individuals and families. As you weigh the decision, it’s important to take an honest look at your finances and long‑term goals to determine whether homeownership aligns with your overall investment strategy.

Then there’s the other side of the financial equation: taxes.

Having a mortgage may come with tax advantages, but that’s just one piece of a much bigger picture. Although thinking about your income taxes may not be exciting, tax advantaged saving and investing can help you get ahead. These strategies will help you reduce the amount you’ll owe in taxes each year and help you prepare for a healthy financial life and future at the same time.

County. “We help our clients finance real estate,” says Chris. “Whether they are purchasing it or already own it, our job is to help provide them with financing for their projects.”

For Chris and his team, it starts with listening.“We have patience and don’t give up. We offer solutions and provide options. While this might not sound unique (for mortgage companies) per se, it’s hard work.”

From there, the value of homeownership comes into focus. Owning a home offers long‑term stability and predictable housing costs. Unlike rent, which can rise with market shifts, a fixed‑rate mortgage allows homeowners to budget with confidence. Homeownership also builds equity over time. As property

“If you don’t yet have a mortgage, then first save as much as possible after you have suppressed as much of your existing debts,” says Chris. “Pay attention to your credit profiles. Not just the scores you might find, but the quality of your credit and what’s actually being reported all throughout it. If you don’t have ample reserves, then don’t try to pay more toward your mortgage each month until you do. Work with your employer to make sure you have the right deductions in place for each pay period. If you are self employed, make sure you are consulting and adjusting with your tax preparer regularly, like quarterly, to avoid any end of year surprises.”

Of course, no investment is risk‑free. While real estate does carry risks— such as market volatility and ongoing maintenance expenses—the long‑term advantages of homeownership

Tax planning, says the pros, shouldn’t be something you dust off once a year.

Tax planning shouldn’t be an afterthought when the new year rolls around. You should stay organized throughout the year, keeping track of your income and deductions. You should also plan your monthly budget around a contribution to a retirement account and decide whether you want to save for your child’s college education in a 529 plan. You might also choose to make contributions to a health savings account if you have a high deductible health plan.

“I advise all my clients to educate themselves as much as possible,” says Ted, who has worked in tax and accounting for 25 years. “While you can rely on your financial and tax advisors, you will be largely better off having a good working knowledge and therefore an understanding of your own financial and tax situation.”

He also offers a cautionary note. “Be careful with your choice of tax or financial advisors. There are a lot of poorly educated and poorly trained individuals who do not know what they are doing. Look at their education and experience.”

“

We help our clients finance real estate, whether they are purchasing it or already own it, our job is to help provide them with financing for their projects.

~ Chris Salese

Del Sur Mortgage, Branch Manager

”

In Napa, Ted Mihm, Enrolled Agent and owner of Ted’s Tax and Accounting Solutions, works with clients on everything from basic returns to complex tax issues. He says his company provides a full range of tax services including tax preparation, representation, resolution and planning.

For example, an accordion file that you place all tax relevant information in as it comes throughout the year....

When tax season approaches, Ted’s advice is simple: make it easier on yourself.

“I advise clients to make it easier and less stressful for themselves. Find a local tax advisor for all your tax needs. Do not procrastinate, that just makes it harder. Have a straightforward way of collecting documents and tax information throughout the year. For example, an accordion file that you place all tax relevant information in as it comes throughout the year, or an envelope system, one envelope for each month. Utilize the tax organizer your tax professional provides as a handy reminder of the issues you need to address at tax time. Make copies of all documents, retain one copy for yourself and one copy for your tax advisor.”

For the perennial question of how long to save records: “Keep everything for seven years.”

Ted also wants to dial down the fear factor around taxes.

“Taxes are not easy to understand and can feel overwhelming, but they are not rocket science. You can understand and deal effectively with your finance and tax situation. All you need is the one advisor that takes the time to help you and becomes your advocate.”

What doesn’t work, he says, is pretending the problem doesn’t exist.

“The biggest mistake I see is in delaying response and addressing tax issues. Time is usually not on your side and delay can make it substantially worse when there are tax issues. The easiest way to reduce your tax bite is by making sure the problem does not compound itself with penalties and interest.”

His advice if an IRS notice lands in your mailbox is direct.

“If you get a notice from the IRS and you don’t understand the problem, get help asap. Do not think it’s going to resolve itself on its own. That rarely happens.”

Whether you prefer to manage your finances solo or lean on professionals, the formula is the same: planning plus consistency. With a clear strategy and ongoing discipline, it’s possible not only to avoid financial hardship but also to build a brighter financial future.

707.259.6191 • lderbin@att.net www.thederbingroup.com

A CLOSER LOOK AT

OPEN MIND LEARNING

An Educational, Social Emotional Resource Supporting Children and Families Across the North Bay

Across Napa, Sonoma, and the surrounding communities, many families find themselves navigating questions about learning that don t come with easy answers For some, school appears to be going “fine” on paper, even as daily experiences tell a different story - children who come home drained, avoid certain subjects, or lose confidence in areas that once felt manageable. For others, the challenges are more visible and the need for additional support feels more clear.

Families arrive at these questions from different places, but often with a shared hope: to better understand what their child needs and to find support that actually fits For many that search leads them to Open Mind Learning, a specialized learning center located in downtown Napa that works with children and adolescents across a wide range of learning profiles

SUPPORT DESIGNED FOR HOW CHILDREN ACTUALLY LEARN

Open Mind Learning works with children whose learning needs extend beyond what is typically addressed in school or traditional tutoring settings Some students have diagnoses such as ADHD, autism anxiety or developmental delay; others do not. What they share is a need for support that is more individualized relational, and responsive to how they experience learning day to day

All offerings at Open Mind Learning are intentionally strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming designed to honor how children think, process information, regulate emotions, and engage socially. Differences in learning are approached as meaningful variations rather than deficits, and support is shaped around each child s unique profile

Across all programs, one defining feature remains consistent: small group sizes high adult-to-child ratios, and specialized support for neurodiverse learners

INDIVIDUALIZED ACADEMIC AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING SUPPORT

One core offering at Open Mind Learning is individualized academic and executive functioning support These one-on-one sessions are designed for students who may struggle with reading writing organization, planning, task initiation working memory, or sustaining attention

Rather than focusing solely on completing assignments instruction centers on building skills, conceptual understanding and strategies. Students learn how they learn best - developing tools they can use independently over time For older children and adolescents this often includes explicit instruction, metacognitive work and support with self-advocacy

Families frequently notice that as academic skills strengthen confidence increases and learning feels less overwhelming.

Schedule a Conversation:

Email: openmindlearningnapa@gmail.com

Phone: (619) 992-9044

SERVING THE NORTH BAY COMMUNITY

CAMPS AND COMMUNITY-BASED OFFERINGS

Open Mind Learning offers specialized camps during school breaks, designed for neurodivergent children who thrive in smaller well-supported group environments

Sign ups for summer camps coming soon!

Open Mind Learning also hosts a monthly Kids Night Out, providing children with a supported opportunity to connect with peers while families enjoy a few hours of respite

SOCIAL SKILLS GROUPS FOR SUPPORTED PRACTICE

Open Mind Learning is particularly known for its small social skills groups designed for children who need extra support and practice with social-emotional and play-based skills These groups serve children who may struggle with peer interactions flexibility, communication or emotional regulation Groups are not behavior-focused or compliancedriven Instead, they provide guided opportunities to practice perspective-taking emotional awareness, communication, and cooperative play in a supportive, structured environment.

WORKING ALONGSIDE FAMILIES

Open Mind Learning emphasizes collaboration and transparency Families are kept informed through ongoing communication sharing observations, and practical guidance

Also some services offered at Open Mind Learning - including social skills groups and social-emotional camps - are reimbursable through the North Bay Regional Center for eligible families

THE PERSPECTIVE BEHIND THE PRACTICE

Open Mind Learning was founded by Caitlin B Knowles a credentialed special educator with more than two decades of experience supporting children and families Caitlin specializes in supporting neurodivergent learners through academic and social-emotional strategies that build confidence growth and joy in learning Caitlin holds two master’s degrees in education, including one from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education During the 2024–2025 academic year she was honored with a competitive fellowship supporting advanced study and research focused on the development of private and community-based neurodiversity affirming programming for children

A PLACE TO BUILD SKILLS THAT CARRY FORWARD

For families exploring what kind of support might help learning feel more accessible, sustainable, and joyful Open Mind Learning offers a place to slow down, understand what s getting in the way, and build skills that extend beyond any single program.

To Learn more, visit: www openmindlearningnapa org

ACADEMIC SMALL GROUPS

In addition to individual sessions, Open Mind Learning offers academic small groups for students who benefit from learning alongside peers while still receiving specialized attention. These groups are intentionally kept small allowing facilitators to adapt instruction in real time and respond to individual learning profiles Academic small groups provide structure connection and shared learning experiences without the pressure or sensory load that larger classroom environments can create

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Our cutting-edge treatments utilize stem cells and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. These therapies have shown remarkable success in reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing skin vitality. Say goodbye to lengthy recoveries and embrace a holistic approach to health and beauty.

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Feel what its like to get your life Back!

“Who knew that a bunch of ten-year-olds could make such a difference?”

~ Fourth Grade Participant

Napa River Ecology Center at the American Canyon Wetlands

By Craig Smith

Educate

Youth

•

Protect Environment

• Connect Community

How much impact can a small group of volunteers have in their community? To answer that, look no further than American Canyon. The American Canyon Community & Parks Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organized in 2015, now reaches 4,000 youth and families a year with watershed, conservation and environmental programs. And that’s just the beginning. When their shovel-ready Napa River Ecology Center breaks ground later this year, the nonprofit will be able to connect

with all of Napa County, as well as surrounding Bay Area communities.

Janelle Sellick is the Executive Director of the Foundation, and was board president when the group first started. She and her husband Mike moved to American Canyon in 2003, thinking of it as a temporary move until they continued on to Colorado. But by the time the wetlands trail opened in 2005, they knew Am Can was the perfect place to live and raise their (now) four children. As a

mom, Janelle looked for enrichment opportunities for her kids. When she talked to teachers, they emphasized the importance of hands-on learning. With the San Pablo Bay and Napa River as American Canyon’s backyard, she and others could see the possibilities. The small group rolled up its’ sleeves and went to work.

The Foundations’ education and community programming is extensive. One example is Watershed

Explorers, which serves over 300 fourth graders each year. The program begins with a day of in-class presentation and nature journaling, followed by a Day Two visit to the wetlands, rotating through interactive stations led by partners such as the Napa County Resource Conservation District, Napa Open Space and the Suscol Intertribal Council. Topics include plankton, The First People, macroinvertebrates, wastewater and wildlife conservation. Day Three includes an engaging session with the Foundation’s Outdoor Connection Mobile Classroom where students use a hands-on water table to learn about watershed dynamics, examine samples under microscopes and record their findings in their journals. It isn’t ’t all “work” though – in Wetlands Academy, a program that serves over 380 seventh graders, students looked for crabs and skipped rocks at Glass Beach. Joy Hilton and Andrea Long, the two Foundation Program Directors, laughed as they discussed the unique curriculums for both students and adults. “We like to think of it as ‘sneaky learning,’” said Andrea.

What do the students think? Here’s feedback from one fourth grader who participated: “Who knew that a bunch of ten-year-olds could make such a difference?”

A new Watershed Trainee program introduced second and third graders to nature walks and scavenger hunts.

In 2023, the Foundation introduced the Outdoor Connection, a mobile classroom that delivered hands on science programs to eight schools as part of the Napa Valley Unified School District’s summer program.

The Teen WILD program had 24 students in 2024, who helped design their programing, which included trail

clean-ups and community led hikes.

Teen WILD leader Chair Miles, spoke of the program during American Canyon’s An Evening at the Ruins.

“Connecting with our environment is vital to connecting to ourselves, to making change and to building a strong community.”

Feeling left out, adults? There are numerous community hikes throughout the year and quarterly Wetlands Coffee Mornings to connect community, nature, and of course, caffeine. Or try the Wine and Wild program, a quarterly wildlife education series which has included meet-and-greets with owls, raptors, opossums, and more – all while you enjoy an optional glass of wine.

Sneaky learning, anyone?

So… you might think that this would be enough for a small team of five staff and two interns to pull off, but the Napa River Ecology Center, less than an easy one-mile walk from the wetlands, is going to take this to a whole new level. The three-acre site includes a 5,000 square-foot existing building that is being repurposed to

provide river conservation efforts, environmental education and public access. There will be separate space for wildlife viewing, making art, and eventually a kayak launch (through the City’s Wetlands Restoration Plan). Some people will just want to walk around or maybe picnic on-site. It doesn’t matter. All are welcome. This is a $9 million dollar project that will pay untold dividends in benefits to thousands of people each year. Groundbreaking on the Ecology Center is expected later this year.

If you’ve never visited the Wetlands, located at 2 Eucalyptus Drive in American Canyon, do so. Over five miles of well-maintained walking trails offer great Bay views, bird watching, or just an easy walk or bicycle. An outdoor workout equipment center – an early fundraising project of the Foundation – is adjacent to the parking lot. If you want to find out more about the Napa River Ecology Center, visit their website (napaecocenter.org). Donations are always welcome.

Submit your snapshots at napavalleymarketplace.com/submit-a-community-snapshot

KEVIN MILLER

CITY OF NAPA

RECYCLING DIVISION

by Ronda Giangreco

Partnerships and programs making a tangible difference in Napa and our world

Kevin Miller is the Recycling Manager with the City of Napa. Solid waste and recycling services and programs in Napa are really a public/private between the City and Napa Recycling & Waste Services (NRWS). The City of Napa owns the recycling and composting facility while NRWS operates the facility and provides collection services under contract with the City. We recently met with him to learn about the partnership and the many programs offered by the facility.

Rarely do you encounter someone who has managed to combine their career with their passion. But for Kevin Miller, it’s clear that the environmental benefits of recycling, and the new environmental technologies on the horizon, are a source of immense fascination and personal commitment.

KEVIN: I attended college at UC Santa Barbara and after trying a few courses of study, I set my sights on a degree in Environmental Studies, with an emphasis on Environmental Law. It turned out that I ended up at the right school since UC Santa Barbara started the second environmental program in the nation after oil spills there in the 1960’s. Being raised by grandparents, they instilled in me a deep conservation ethic and appreciation for the natural environment. But it was also observing my grandparents, who grew up during the depression, that had an effect on me. They didn’t waste anything. There weren’t any recycling programs at the curb back then, but not nearly as much trashwas generated as today’s households. People in those days needed to restore and reuse as much as they could. That impressed me.

MARKETPLACE: And after college?

MARKETPLACE: Kevin, you obviously love your job, but I doubt that as a kid you dreamed about working in the trash business. What led you to this career?

KEVIN: I had the opportunity to work for a nonprofit (Californians Against Waste Foundation), then a job with “hands-on” government at the City of Folsom (where Folsom was the municipal collector of trash and recycling) and then I got a job in the private section (Weyerhaeuser Paper Company). But, by far, I most enjoy the job I have here with the City of Napa. We have the best of all worlds with the public/private partnership. The recycling and composting facility is owned by the city and accountable to taxpayers because of that public ownership. NRWS, as a private entity, enjoys the flexibility to move quickly to new technologies and streamlined

operations. I truly love it here with the City of Napa because I know that I can make a tangible difference in our world, a difference that can be quantified and it’s progressed measured. We are very proud of the fact that our facility has garnered the top award for composting in the state in 2021. And in the entire country in 2022!

MARKETPLACE: Speaking of Napa taxpayers, what kind of services are offered through your company that they may not know are available?

KEVIN: For one, the Recycle More program offers free curbside pickup of many things you might think you need to take to the dump. We can pick up your old refrigerator, the outdated computer you have sitting in the garage, even old batteries and fluorescent bulbs/tubes. All you have to do is call the NRWS office (707-255-5200) or go online to naparecycling.com and schedule a pick-up. The City and NRWS have several other programs that can be accessed by using our website. Confused about what to put in each of the color-coded cans? We have simple, easy to understand charts on the site. Do you want to purchase certified organic compost? We have that too.

MARKETPLACE: I know a lot of people wonder if recycling and composting is really worth the effort. Is it?

KEVIN: Absolutely! ! Each year, over 170,000 tons of materials are recycled or composted at the Napa Recycling & Composting Facility. By keeping it out of the landfill, we significantly decrease carbon dioxide and methane emissions and save enough energy to power all the houses in Napa for nearly three months! I’d say that it’s worth it. But there are even more advantages to responsible waste management. Plus, the recycling industry is a huge job creating endeavor. The recycling industry in California employs as many people as the film industry. As for composting, most people find it startling to learn that the average family of four throws away nearly $1,500 worth of food each year. But it’s not just the waste of money that’s the issue; it’s also wasting our natural resources when you simply toss your food scraps in the trash. Meat, bones, shells, dairy, bread, and even soiled paper can be composted. Basically, if something was ever alive, it can be composted. Paper from trees, the scraps of leftover food all can be converted to usable soil and even, eventually, , a renewable fuel to run our garbage trucks!

MARKETPLACE: Wait? Are you saying my leftover pizza from last night can be converted to gas for my car?

KEVIN: Not exactly, and not right now. But soon we will have a new “anaerobic

digestion” facility that can capture biomethane gas from organic waste (like food scraps and grape pumace) and convert it to renewable natural gas to fuel our entire collection fleet.

MARKETPLACE: Food scraps become fuel? Wow. How does that work?

KEVIN: It all happens in an airtight system that will mix food waste and green waste together for 21 days. Over that time, it slowly becomes the consistency of oatmeal and gives off biomethane gas. That gas is then captured by the system, harvested and converted to a renewable natural gas that can be used to power vehicles.

MARKETPLACE: That sounds like it will really save some money for taxpayers!

KEVIN: But wait, there’s more! When the facility is at full capacity, it will prevent 100,806 metric tons of CO2 from being released into our air over a 10-year period. That’s the equivalent of removing 21,222 cars off the road (or about 2,000 cars each) over that same ten-year period! Cleaner air, better use of resources, and protecting our environment. That’s the ultimate goal of the recycling and composting programs and facilities serving the Napa community.

MARKETPLACE: When can we expect this amazing technology to come to our city?

KEVIN: We are hoping by the end of summer 2027 we’ll be up and running. It’s a $30 million investment, of which $10 million is coming from a state grant. Napa is not only an award willing, environmentally conscious city, we’re working at making it a shining example of how a public/private alliance can create a state-of-the-art waste management system that makes our city an even more amazing place in which to live and work.

MARCH 3

Rodney Crowell: Airline Highway Tour

youth and recorded in the heart of Cajun country, Airline Highway reflects on the past while celebrating the present. Crowell, a two-time Grammy winner, penned hits for Emmylou Harris, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Rosanne Cash, Keith Urban and more. uptowntheatrenapa.com

is a founding member of Canadian supergroup The New Pornographers. She is the author of The New York Times bestselling memoir and the weekly Substack newsletter, and is currently composing the musical theater adaptation of Thelma & Louise. uptowntheatrenapa.com

On his vibrant 20th studio album, Airline Highway, Rodney Crowell explores love, memory, and musical kinship with a new generation of roots artists. The album captures a spontaneous spirit— blending Crowell’s storytelling prowess with contributions from Lukas Nelson, Ashley McBryde, Charlie Starr, and Larkin Poe. Inspired by the swamp-pop sounds of his

MARCH 6-22

Godspell Godspell presents the timeless parables of Jesus in an entertaining way that has captivated audiences from its

original production in 1971 through to today. Using an eclectic blend of theatrical styles and songs the messages of Jesus dance across the stage. Godspell was the first major musical theatre offering from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz who went on to create Wicked, Pippin, Children of Eden and more. Led by the international hit, “Day by Day," Godspell features a parade of beloved songs, including "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "All for the Best," "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and

Singer, songwriter, music producer, visual artist, and writer Neko Case is the consummate career artist— fearless and versatile, with a fierce work ethic and a constant drive to search deeper within herself for creative growth. Case has long been revered as one

five albums to much critical acclaim from NPR, Pitchfork and Rolling Stone among others, who called him, “A country boy with a punkrock heart.” He has toured extensively, appearing on stages from Letterman and the Ryman to your town’s shittiest punk bar. Branan’s songs have been covered by such artists as Tyler Childers, Frank Turner, and Dashboard Confessional. He has also collaborated with the likes of Jason Isbell, Laura Jane Grace (Against Me!), and Craig Finn (The Hold Steady). Intimate Sunday afternoon performance from 3:30-5:30pm. tonewoodandcourage.com

songs were so different from what he’d previously written that he initially thought he was writing a musical. There were “dream shanties,” gentler vocals, horror-inspired sounds, and other exciting new elements coming to mind. uptowntheatrenapa.com

MARCH 8

Cory Branan at Tonewood & Courage

Over the last two decades, Cory Branan has released

MARCH 10

George Thorogood and The Destroyers During 2025’s The Baddest Show on Earth Tour, they played nearly 90 explosive shows, were honored by The Recording Academy’s Grammy Museum, saw George’s famed Gibson ES-125TDC ‘Bad To The Bone’ guitar placed on permanent exhibit at The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, performed at halftime for the Las Vegas Raiders, were inducted into The Musicians Hall of Fame, delivered the top-rated PBS Special Recorded Live At

Analog, and more. But now it’s 2026. What could George Thorogood & The Destroyers possibly do for an encore?

“Encore?” bellows George with a good-natured laugh. “We’re just getting started!” uptowntheatrenapa.com

MARCH 14

Blue Skies Ahead: Carnival of Lights

An unforgettable evening at Blue Skies Ahead: Carnival of Lights at Joseph Phelps Vineyards to benefit Mentis. Step into a magical night filled with classic carnival games, delicious small bites, and signature sips from the estate and gather in celebration of community and connection. Your ticket helps light the way for mental wellness in Napa— because every story deserves to shine bright. mentisnapa.org

MARCH 18-19

77th Annual Jamboree Concerts

March 18: Preview Guitar Concert features the Beginning Guitar Ensemble and introduces the new 2026 Guitar II Advanced Guitar Class. Napa High School Little Theater at 7pm. Tickets are free, donations are welcome.

March 19: Jamboree Concert features Jazz Band, String Orchestra, Varsity Strings, two-time Napa Valley Winter ColorGuard championship team, Napa Valley Winter Drumline, and introduces the 2025-26 Concert Band for their first appearance. Tickets are $15 GA, $5 students. NVUSD Evans Auditorium at 7pm. napahighband.org

MARCH 20

The Expendables

The Expendables have proven anything but in their nearly 25-year career since starting out as a spirited party band in high school performing surfrock covers for birthdays and family gatherings. A quartercentury later, elementary school buddies Raul Bianchi, Adam Peterson and Geoff Weers, along with bassist Ryan DeMars, who joined in 2000, have forged a unique sound born in the laid-back beach life in their hometown of Santa Cruz. The Expendables’ infectious hybrid of ska, surf-rock, punk, reggae and metal can be heard in their latest streaming track, “Surfman Cometh,” a spaghettiwestern meets “Pipeline” twang that could easily form the soundtrack to the latest Quentin Tarantino film. uptowntheatrenapa.com

MARCH 23

Johnny Marr

Johnny Marr started his career with The Smiths, beginning an amazing history

as one of the most influential songwriters and guitarists in British independent music. His subsequent creative journey has seen him at the heart of The The, Electronic, Modest Mouse and The Cribs, as well as working with such names as The Pretenders, Talking Heads, The Avalanches, and the musician and composer Hans Zimmer—with whom he recorded the score and soundtrack for the most recent James Bond film, No

Time To Die, including the Oscar-nominated title track created with Billie Eilish. uptowntheatrenapa.com

MARCH 28

Cristela Alonzo: The Midlife Mixtape Tour Cristela Alonzo is a powerhouse comedian, writer, and actress whose sharp wit and infectious charm have made her a standout voice in comedy today. Most recently, she served as a

co-producer on Happy’s Place and continues to bring her unique perspective to screens big and small. Her latest Netflix comedy special, Upper Classy, following the success of her previous hits Middle Classy and Lower Classy—a trilogy that hilariously traces her journey from humble beginnings to unapologetic self-awareness. On the acting front, Cristela has appeared in Netflix’s The Laundromat, starring alongside legends Meryl Streep and Gary Oldman, and she made history as the creator and star of her own ABC sitcom, Cristela. uptowntheatrenapa.com

MARCH 28

Mustard Celebration Finale: A Festival of Wine, Food and Art

Join the Downtown Napa Association for the second annual Mustard Celebration Finale at the renowned CIA at Copia from 10am to 4pm. Celebrate the season with over 75 art, wine, and food vendors, plus live music, contests, and shopping at the Napa Valley Mustard Celebration Store. A vibrant community event highlighting Napa Valley creativity, flavor and fun. Tickets are on sale at Eventbrite. donapa.com

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