David Blue
Sep 1, 2026
Trivia Question❓What was the first commercial winery established in Napa Valley, paving the way for the region’s winemaking reputation? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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We saved the best for last. This week's finale is pure Napa Valley: a winery where you can play a match on a private court, then sit down for a wine tasting in the same afternoon.
Whitehall Lane's "Sip, Serve, Smash" package pairs an hour of pickleball with a curated tasting and cheese pairing, all set against Mayacamas Mountain views. We're also taking a look at the Napa Valley Pickleball Classic, a local tournament at Crane Park that turns competitive play into a fundraiser for UpValley Family Centers.
It's the perfect close to our three-part pickleball series — read on to see how the valley made this sport its own. Read More... |
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Fluffy has spent most of his life without the love he deserved. After surviving severe neglect, this sweet, affectionate senior rabbit is finally somewhere safe - and all he wants now is someone to brush him, pet him, and give him the soft landing he's been waiting for.
At nearly 8 years old, Fluffy isn't asking for much. Just a lap, a little attention, and a home where neglect is a thing of the past. Read More... |
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The Michael Leonardi Foundation will present its next Music + Awareness Concert at The Barn Napa Valley on August 29, blending live performances with a vital mission for fentanyl safety.
Local favorites, including Dirty Cello and Cherry Blonde, will headline the evening, drawing community focus to the urgent issue of fentanyl awareness sweeping through Napa.
Open to residents and visitors, the event provides an inviting space to learn, celebrate, and connect.
Beyond the music, guests will access resources on fentanyl test strips, overdose prevention, and the latest public health guidance.
Guest speakers will share real stories—reminding all how essential it is to confront the risks tied to illicit drugs.
This series stands as a beacon of hope, uniting art and activism, while proceeds directly support Napa’s prevention and recovery programs.
Knowledge, support, and compassion remain Napa’s strongest tools in the fight against fentanyl’s silent impact. Read More... |
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Harvest kicked off weeks ahead of schedule this year across Napa Valley, and growers are seeing a pattern repeat from Calistoga to Carneros: smaller yields, but noticeably concentrated flavors.
Shatter, a condition that leaves vine clusters smaller and more irregular, has cut yields by as much as 50% in some AVAs. But less fruit often means more character in what's left, and early reports on Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are already turning heads.
Read on for a full AVA-by-AVA breakdown of how this year's harvest is shaping up. Read More... |
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BDCo, Brotemarkle Davis & CO. LLP brings deep expertise and genuine care to every client they serve. With a talented team of CPAs and professionals, they offer actionable guidance, meaningful insights, and relevant solutions for businesses and individuals alike. From tax planning to business consulting, BDCo is known for its personalized approach and commitment to helping clients achieve their financial goals. Their roots in the Napa community run deep, and their passion for empowering others is clear in everything they do. Trust BDCo to be your knowledgeable partner in all things accounting and advisory. |
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Q: How has Napa’s wine industry influenced the city’s schools and community programs over time? A: The success of the wine industry has led to philanthropic giving that supports local schools, arts, and health programs. Many local wineries sponsor scholarships and partner with educational initiatives, fueling a vibrant network of community resources. Q: What are the roots of Napa’s agricultural co-ops, and do any remain active in the city today? A: Napa’s agricultural co-ops emerged in the early 20th century as grape growers pooled resources for marketing and production. While many have evolved or merged, some smaller co-ops still support sustainable farming and shared facilities. Q: How have local policies addressed affordable housing during Napa’s growth? A: Napa has introduced inclusionary zoning and incentive programs over several decades to increase affordable housing. Recent efforts focus on converting underused lots and streamlining approval processes for multi-family dwellings. |
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Q&A Questions |
Q: How has Napa’s wine industry influenced the city’s schools and community programs over time? A: The success of the wine industry has led to philanthropic giving that supports local schools, arts, and health programs. Many local wineries sponsor scholarships and partner with educational initiatives, fueling a vibrant network of community resources. Q: What are the roots of Napa’s agricultural co-ops, and do any remain active in the city today? A: Napa’s agricultural co-ops emerged in the early 20th century as grape growers pooled resources for marketing and production. While many have evolved or merged, some smaller co-ops still support sustainable farming and shared facilities. Q: How have local policies addressed affordable housing during Napa’s growth? A: Napa has introduced inclusionary zoning and incentive programs over several decades to increase affordable housing. Recent efforts focus on converting underused lots and streamlining approval processes for multi-family dwellings. |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Charles Krug Winery |