The page you're looking for does not exist Please try our site search feature to find what you are looking for Dear Reader,Unfortunately our comment platform isn\'t available at the moment due to issues with our paywall and authentication vendor Helena and Cloverdale are also among the winning teams in the latest action across the North Bay 6-3) scored eight runs in the first inning Tuesday and never looked back cruising to a Vine Valley Athletic League win over Napa (4-14 Madison Del Castillo led things at the plate for the Wolves who had the most hits on the day with three Ianna Labao and Jayden de los Santos combined to allow just two hits in the circle while striking out a total of six 10-0) needed only three innings to score all 16 runs Tuesday as they stayed perfect in NCL I play with a win over Kelseyville Tahlia Smith went off for a five-RBI day at the plate Emily Glakeler and Ellie Carmichael also had two hits and two RBIs apiece Smith and Ada Blanton combined to allow just four hits in the circle the Dragons (7-13) rattled off seven runs in the top of fifth to beat Encinal in nonleague action Tuesday Delilah Oliver went 2-for-4 at the dish with a home run while Ellie Llanos had three hits and a double allowing just one run on four hits in 4⅓ innings of relief 7-2) broke the game open with a five-run fifth to pick up an NCL I win over Upper Lake Ronni Hatcher went 2-for-3 with a home run three RBIs and two runs scored to lead Cloverdale Camryn Bird continued her stellar spring with two hits and two RBIs Charlotte Burchett threw a complete game for Cloverdale allowing three runs on seven hits while striking out seven 5-3) scored five runs in the second inning and withstood a seventh-inning comeback attempt by Monty (6-13 3-4) to get a huge win in NBL-Redwood play going 3-for-5 with three RBIs and a run scored Makayla Bignardi also had a stellar performance offensively Bignardi also struck out eight in a complete-game performance in the circle Cardinal Newman 8, Windsor 1 You can reach Staff Writer Kienan O’Doherty at 415-887-8650 or kienan.odoherty@pressdemocrat.com 2025-05-05T07:41:43-07:00May 5 2025-05-02T09:39:58-07:00May 2 2025-05-02T08:40:53-07:00May 2 2025-05-04T09:32:06-07:00April 30 2025-04-30T17:06:48-07:00April 30 People gather for the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the American Canyon Fire Protection District’s new REACH helicopter on Wednesday American Canyon Fire Protection District Chief Geoff Belyea speaks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the district’s new REACH helicopter on Wednesday Firefighters inspect the tail rotor during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the American Canyon Fire Protection District’s new REACH helicopter on Wednesday Mayor Pierre Washington speaks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the American Canyon Fire Protection District’s new REACH helicopter on Wednesday American Canyon Fire District has entered a partnership with aerial emergency service company REACH by co-operating an emergency helicopter The American Canyon Fire Protection District has entered a partnership with a private aerial emergency service company that will speed up urgent response and patient transport with a helicopter in Napa County REACH aerial medical services and American Canyon will now jointly operate an Airbus H136 that has been rebranded as Copter 11 receiving the American Canyon Fire District label across its shiny red exterior city officials and REACH leaders celebrated the new partnership Wednesday March 12 at REACH's local base at Napa County Airport REACH pilot Dan Brookes came to the celebration and has been working at the agency's Napa headquarters since it opened in 2017 He explained that REACH has already provided training and support in the community but that this collaboration will streamline emergency care “The closer we can work with our local municipalities the least amount of delay that we can expect to experience in the 911 system,” Brookes said According to an American Canyon Fire news release Copter 11 is one of only 350 in North America equipped with intensive care unit-level equipment REACH will manage flight operations and medical responses through its staff of flight nurses and paramedics while American Canyon Fire will provide administrative support and integrate Copter 11 into countywide emergency management services noted the pact will use no taxpayer money and that REACH is funding all the partnership components “Doing a private-public partnership really helps us synergize the capabilities of both companies,” he said American Canyon Fire Chief Geoff Belyea said the helicopter is the unifying force of the partnership what we’re doing is binding everything together that typically goes on in an emergency and bringing it together as a partnership,” Belyea said “The helicopter is the mechanism for the relationship.” You can reach Riley Palmer at 707-256-2212 or riley.palmer@napanews.com Email notifications are only sent once a day Friends and family of Berryessa's Turtle Rock bar collected the money pined to the ceiling of the cafe to donate to UCSF and celebrate the 15-year 'cancerversary' of Elijah Leung Most of Napa’s River Park Shopping Center tenants cater to locals Now a handful of tenants have left the center The sheriff's office reported seizing 13 roosters from a Carneros site where it said the birds were altered and trained to fight other male birds Take a ride around Napa on these motorized ADA-compliant scooters made to look like various critters and creatures Young denied a bid by Alan Jazeel Martinez to dismiss a second-degree murder charge for the death of 17-year-old Monica Flores after a fentanyl overdose in 2022 Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account “They paved paradise and put up wine warehouses….” The above line is adapted from an environmental song made famous in the ‘60’s by legendary songwriter and performer Joni Mitchell “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot.” After two recent contentious and highly divided hearings--one in American Canyon minority owner of a 157-acre property known as Green Island Vineyard (GIV) has been given the green light to sell the land to the highest bidder for possible industrial development [“Putting warehouses or any development near the wetlands would have a devastating effect on existing wildlife which uses this habitat for food and shelter The wetlands also protects against sea level rise,” Nick Cheranich the City Council voted 4–1 to adopt Minute Order 2025-07 which authorized the mayor to sign a "Letter of Support" for a request submitted by Gilbreth to the Local Agency Formation Commission of Napa County (LAFCO) The request seeks to expand American Canyon’s Sphere of Influence (SOI) to include Gilbreth’s property on Green Island Road 21 E-comments were sent to the City Council by American Canyon residents and other concerned citizens in opposition to Gilbreth’s request public testimony was also overwhelmingly against granting Gilbreth an SOI.  Representatives from various environmental groups the Audubon Society and the Napa County Wilderness Habitat Conservation Committee all spoke against the SOI as did others opposed to Gilbreth’s request former City Manager and current Vice Mayor was the only Council member who voted against the SOI pointing out that voters in 2022 had already rejected Gilbreth’s appeal to the voters (Measure J) to allow him to develop this same parcel of land Despite the continued overwhelming public opposition to Gilbreth’s new approach Melissa Lamattina and Mayor Pierre Washington all voted for the SOI Green Belt Alliance and the Audubon reiterated their opposition to allowing development on the piece of land that abuts the Wetlands on one side The LAFCO vote to support Gilbreth’s request was 3-2  Voting in favor were Commissioners Kenneth Leary  (Oro is an alternate commissioner on the LAFCO Board but was sitting in place of regular member Beth Painter When asked how Oro was allowed to cast a vote given his earlier pro-vote on the American Canyon City Council LAFCO Executive Director Brendon Freeman pointed out that Oro had already taken an oath that he would be impartial in voting on the same issue two weeks later.  Supervisor Joelle Gallagher and Yountville Mayor Margie Mohler voted against the request Gallagher noted that allowing for the SOI sent a dangerous precedent to the rest of the County Essentially she said that if grape growers planted something that doesn’t work well let’s just put in a warehouse or homes instead saying it would set a “dangerous precedent” for county farmland  The Farm Bureau had also opposed Measure J in 2022 Save the Bay and the Greenbelt Alliance also opposed the sphere-of-influence addition and included a letter signed by 190 residents calling the land an important buffer between urban development and a sensitive shoreline “We understand that the vote today is not about developing or not developing this land but the intentions are clear,” says Zoe Siegel of the Greenbelt Alliance and Joshua Quigley of Save the Bay there is a much greater likelihood that this land will be developed." The Sierra Club Napa Group and Napa Solano Audubon Society urged that the land be preserved with a conservation easement that pays the landowners to forego development rights “People throughout the Bay Area regularly visit this area for birding and walking,” says Mark Stephenson “This recreation needs to be encouraged and promoted as an incentive for tourism for the City of American Canyon.” Gilbreth said the sphere-of-influence decision will lead to discussions with American Canyon Napa County and responsible environmentalists about what might be done on the property American Canyon residents and environmentalists hope that at least some of the 157-acres can be designated as a Conservation Easement and that the City of American Canyon can secure funding for purchasing part or all of the land in question there is not a single acre of land in American Canyon that is designated as conservation easement,” says Nick Cheranich chair of the Napa Group Conservation Committee “Putting warehouses or any development near the wetlands would have a devastating affect on existing wildlife which uses this habitat for food and shelter,” Cheranich adds Gilbreth has used the American Canyon City Council to avoid putting this issue on the ballot again while not letting the people of American Canyon vote on this as they did in 2022,” laments Scott Thomason American Canyon resident and Sierra Club Napa Group treasurer We are working tirelessly to ensure clean air and water for all and fight for environmental justice here in Napa County 100% of your gift stays local and gives us the resources to work on the issues you care about Napa Home  Sierra Club® and "Explore, enjoy and protect the planet"® are registered trademarks of the Sierra Club. © Sierra Club 2025.The Sierra Club Seal is a registered copyright The Kid Commerce Program through the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce offers middle and high school students resources and mentorship so they can start their own business Thirteen-year-old Caela Ryan did not realize that running a business at the American Canyon’s “Meet Me In The Streets” summer market was not as easy as it looked But when the American Canyon middle school student brought her business Blissful Body Scrubs to the event she quickly learned the importance of service with a smile Customer service was only one of the skills that Ryan learned through the Kids Commerce Program This 10-week course through the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce teaches middle and high school students how to start a business in preparation for the city’s summer market Ryan has been a part of the program since its inception in 2023 She said while she learned some money management skills in her middle school classrooms it didn’t prepare her to run a business the way the Kids Commerce Program did “I think it shows kids that they can do things themselves it’s not just always for adults,” Ryan said “It shows them how to be more responsible and manage money,” Ryan said In addition to the importance of time management Ryan found joy in starting a business she was passionate about You can create a lot of memories here and make new friends and you can learn how to build a business,” Ryan said For its work inspiring dozens of young entrepreneurs in Napa County just like Ryan Kids Commerce was one of four programs awarded the 2024 Outstanding Chamber Program by the Western Association of Chamber Executives in the small chambers of commerce category The association is made up of chambers across 10 states including California “It is a pretty big accomplishment for our small chamber here in American Canyon and we’re really proud of the Kids Commerce program,” said American Chamber of Commerce president Valerie Zizak-Morais She said the program began two years ago after some students approached her about selling at the city’s annual summer popup market “Meet Me in the Streets.” She said she had to turn them away since they did not have the proper licenses to sell at the market This inspired her and the chamber to start the program to help students obtain all the necessary local and state-mandated registrations The program covers the costs for these certifications and the city of American Canyon offered a free business license to each students’ business to sell within the city In addition to the legalities involved with starting a business the 10-week program offers mentoring and training for students on branding building online platforms and tips on selling “I think it’s important for the kids to see the leaders in the business community here locally It inspires them to want to work harder,” Zizak-Morais said “Even watching the returning Kids Commerce students … it helps the new students in the room see that it is possible.” any student attending K-12 schools was eligible to participate and 32 students obtained their business licenses only middle and high school students were eligible Eleven new businesses were minted that second year Businesses ranged from food vendors and homemade crocheted crafts The chamber president said they do not restrict the type of businesses but encourage the students to do their research first She said through the program students are getting information that might not typically be available in school “It’s hard for them to always know the process and where to go and how to find the correct resources to start a business,” Zizak-Morais said “So with us providing this platform and these mentors from the business community speedy path to getting a start up business.” Zizak-Morais said they have already launched this year’s program they hope to expand to other markets and create more opportunities for students to showcase their business skills You can reach Staff Writer Melanie Nguyen at 707-521-5457 or melanie.nguyen@pressdemocrat.com Griffin Messenger took a perfect game into the fifth inning as the Braves gained a massive advantage in the pennant race Griffin Messenger took a perfect game into the fifth inning as the Braves (17-4 8-1) gained a massive advantage in the Vine Valley Athletic League title race with Tuesday’s shutout of Casa Grande Messenger allowed just one hit and one walk in his complete-game performance while also tallying six strikeouts Spencer Nelson and Noah Giovannelli led the way for Justin with two hits apiece Franco Bernardini’s double was the lone hit for the Gauchos (15-5 5-4) scored three runs in the top of the sixth inning Tuesday to stun Petaluma and continue the chaos that is the VVAL title race Andre Lopez went 2-for-4 at the plate with four RBIs to lead AmCan while Mike Terrell also had a pair of hits Arlo Pendleton went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs 4-5) scored four runs across the first two innings Tuesday and closed the game out with five runs in the fourth as the Crushers beat Napa (6-17 Blake Porter went yard for the second time this season to lead the Crushers at the plate Both Parker Dahl and Sawyer Carmichael had a double apiece John Bullock had a solid outing for Vintage allowing just one run on one hit while striking out three The American Canyon High School football program has capped its historic run by winning the CIF Division 5-A state title and becoming the first high school state football champion in Napa County history tying the record for the highest score in a state championship game American Canyon players and coaches celebrate after winning the CIF State 5-A championship after defeating Palmdale 68-47 at Long Beach City College American Canyon quarterback Mason Harris (12) takes off on a keeper during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday (14) and Luke Landaverde (24) sack Palmdale quarterback Joshua Suarez (1) during the CIF State 5-A championship game at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon’s Isaac Anderson (10) celebrates after sacking Palmdale quarterback Joshua Suarez during the CIF State 5-A championship at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon fans cheer as the coaches wave in their direction at the end of the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon’s Khairee Baker (20) finds a hole on his way to a touchdown run during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday (14) intercepts a pass during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday Fans cheer as American Canyon takes the field before the start of the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon running back Andre Lopez (0) stiff-arms a defender during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon offensive linemen Phoenix Perry (52) and Joshua Smith (74) celebrate after a touchdown during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon’s Cole Gholar (2) wraps up a Palmdale ball carrier during the CIF State 5-A championship at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon running back Andre Lopez (0) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon players pause in the locker room before the start of the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday A scene from American Canyon’s CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon’s Jamar Choyce jr (14) is congratulated by teammate Miles Baylor (6) after intercepting a pass during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon’s Kamani Santos (1) reaches up for a touchdown catch during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale  at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon fans  celebrate during the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon coaches and players pose for a photograph after CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday Mason Harris (12) follows his 1-yard touchdown run with a two-point conversion for a 53-33 lead over Palmdale in the CIF State 5-A championship game at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon players celebrate after winning the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon head coach Trevor Hudson raises a game ball after the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon’s Isaac Anderson (10) is congratulated by teammate Luke Landaverde (24) after scoring a touchdown CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon head coach Trevor Hudson and players celebrate after winning the CIF State 5-A championship game against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday American Canyon head coach Trevor Hudson points at the Wolves' trophy after they won the CIF State 5-A championship game over against Palmdale at Long Beach City College on Saturday the American Canyon High football team cruised to the CIF State 5-A title with a 68-47 win over Palmdale on Saturday A house located at 16 Carolyn Drive in American Canyon has a new owner The $625,000 purchase price works out to $576 per square foot The property sits on a 5,564-square-foot lot Other houses have recently been sold nearby: This automated story was produced for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat using artificial intelligence and data science. Property information is compiled from municipal assessors in Sonoma County. For any errors email info@pressdemocrat.com Napa County officials narrowly approved a key step that could allow American Canyon to expand onto disputed farmland reviving a long-contested plan previously rejected by voters and regulators A long-delayed effort to fold a 157-acre patch of farmland into American Canyon city limits is finally moving forward — clearing its first hurdle after years of failed attempts Napa County’s Local Agency Formation Commission the body that decides where city boundaries can eventually expand voted 3-2 Monday to include the land at 1661 Green Island Road in American Canyon’s future planning area The move doesn’t greenlight development or annexation — but it signals the land could be brought into city limits down the road The request came from Green Island Property described the vote as an early planning step currently zoned for agriculture and open space Environmental and farming groups oppose the change arguing it threatens local farmland and opens the door to urban sprawl LAFCO has twice denied similar proposals — in 2018 and 2021 — and voters rejected a related ballot measure in 2022 by 249 votes Napa County Farm Bureau CEO Peter Rumble said the group still opposes any move that could weaken protections for agricultural land “The land remains viable for agricultural purposes and is currently serving as watershed and open space,” Rumble wrote in a letter to the commission Allowing it to shift toward development sets a dangerous precedent Napa County Planning Director Brian Bordona echoed those concerns warning in a letter about potential harm to the environment wildlife and the county’s long-standing efforts to preserve open space But the landowner and their representative argued the site can no longer sustain crops because of worsening soil salinity The property once held 65 acres of vineyard but those vines have since been pulled out “This started because we had no one that would farm it no one that would want money to farm it,” Gilbreth said Monday’s vote came with two regular commissioners absent — Anne Cottrell and Beth Painter — and alternates David Oro and Joelle Gallagher stepping in Alternate Eve Kahn also took part in the discussion but did not vote Support came from three members with close ties to American Canyon: Oro a former council member and now a county supervisor; and Leary Commissioners Margie Mohler and Joelle Gallagher opposed the move with Mohler pointing to a 2008 agreement that restricts American Canyon’s growth through 2030 and Gallagher warning it could weaken protections for agricultural land across the county While LAFCO and the landowner are not bound by the agreement staff recommended commissioners still consider it Mohler pointed to the failed 2022 ballot measure as evidence that voters already weighed in Gallagher said she feared a ripple effect across Napa County’s agricultural lands She warned that if developers or landowners argue their vineyards are no longer viable they might use that as a reason to push for city expansion — one case at a time “That’s going to spell big trouble for agriculture in our county if people decide that focused on the land’s location and existing city services The property is surrounded on three sides by American Canyon Ramos said including the land in the city’s planning area would simply allow for a conversation about its future decide it’s not appropriate for growth in their jurisdiction,” she said “But I do not believe that it would be prudent for this commission Leary acknowledged the 2008 agreement could remain a sticking point especially a clause requiring American Canyon to repay county property taxes if it expands early he said cities need revenue to support residents “I don’t believe that this will go away,” Leary said that the next step will be to wait until 2030.” You can reach Staff Writer Edward Booth at 707-521-5281 or edward.booth@pressdemocrat.com The Napa Valley Gardens and Ruins is envisioned as a future town center with retail shops American Canyon’s Watson Ranch may soon host a temporary concert venue at the Napa Valley Ruins and Gardens The venue would accompany a concert series running through at least 2027 The proposal was approved by the American Canyon City Council during a special meeting at 4 p.m under a“city letter of understanding and agreement” to allow the series of concerts to proceed accommodating 3,300 and 800 people respectively Developer Terrance McGrath of American Canyon 1 LLC who has been evaluating the amphitheater plans since May 2023 informed the city this month that a promoter is interested in hosting concerts in the area’s “Square” beginning this summer used previously for events such as the annual “Night in the Ruins” fundraiser is estimated to accommodate up to 2,000 attendees for the concerts using the Square as a temporary venue would serve as a “proof of concept,” showcasing the site’s potential and attracting visitors to the Napa Valley Ruins and Gardens as a regional hub for culture City Manager Jason Holley described the amphitheater concept as gaining traction since its approval in 2023 “The idea of an amphitheater with live music was approved in 2023 and it recently gained enough traction to transition from idea to reality,” Holley said He noted that the identity of the promoter remains confidential and that the city is working closely with McGrath The proposed concert series involves up to 225 events over three years requiring a streamlined approval process rather than the city’s standard special event protocols The staff report outlines additional requirements which will be reviewed by the city andthe American Canyon Fire Protection District “These types of events involve tremendous risk and take a ton of advance planning and capital outlay,” Holley said in an email “Even if the Council goes along with the Agreement there are still a few plans to complete and important details to work through.” The special meeting was scheduled to address the developer and promoter’s desire to move forward by May Holley explained that the next regular council meeting the 47-mile trail from Vallejo to Calistoga is on track for completion by 2028 further connecting the region’s communities and transportation hubs Cyclists and pedestrians now have a direct route between American Canyon and the Vallejo Ferry Terminal with the opening of a 7.5-mile stretch of the Napa Valley Vine Trail — bringing the region one step closer to a seamless 47-mile path from Vallejo to Calistoga The newly completed segment is the southernmost portion of the north-south trail and one of the final trail sections to be completed The Vine Trail already includes a 12.5-mile stretch from Kennedy Park in Napa to Yountville and an 8.2-mile section linking St Only the 10-mile gap between Yountville and St Helena and a 3-mile stretch between Napa and American Canyon remain unfinished The full trail is expected to be completed by 2028 Officials — including Vallejo City Council members representatives from the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition the Solano County Transportation Authority and CalTrans — marked the milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony March 14 but not soon enough for several cyclists who had planned to ride in from American Canyon Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce highlighted the city’s role as a regional hub for bike and pedestrian trails “What I love about this space in particular and this trail is we’re ensuring that our waterfront is a safe and accessible space for everyone founder and board president of the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition the new segment is a major step toward fully realizing the trail’s vision He noted that the Vallejo Ferry Terminal marks “station zero,” giving riders a direct link between the Vine Trail and the Bay Area’s ferry system “It connects the Vine Trail to the entire Bay Area with the ferry,” McMinn said “And I think that’s going to be wonderful for people who visit Vallejo and Solano and Napa to be able to get on a ferry anywhere in the Bay Area While the Vine Trail is often associated with Napa Valley’s vineyards McMinn pointed out that the most heavily used sections are in urban areas “Over half a million people use the Vine Trail every year and 70% of those people live in our communities — in Napa County or in Solano County “So this is first and foremost a trail for us and is secondarily a trail for our visitors.” A bicyclist rides past 157 acres of former vineyard land near American Canyon in June 2022 American Canyon supports adding 157 acres to its sphere of influence American Canyon supports adding to its sphere of influence 157 acres near both wetlands and industrial land with the owners contending the soils of the former vineyards are now too salty to farm Adding the land at 1661 Green Island Road to the city's sphere of influence wouldn't annex it into city boundaries it would be a first step to make absorption into the city possible someday Nor can American Canyon add the land to its sphere of influence on its own The decision must be made by the Local Agency Formation Commission a regional body known as LAFCO with representatives from Napa County and its five cities The landowners are applying to LAFCO to expand American Canyon's sphere of influence which is the outer limit to which a California city can absorb unincorporated lands The City Council on March 18 agreed to support the request City Councilmember David Oro said he wants the city and landowners to talk about what could be done with the land That doesn't necessarily mean industrial development "this City Council kind of went into emergency mode because soccer and baseball were fighting for fields," he said "Is there a possibility to put something out there that sort of acts as a mitigation point but also respect what's out there in terms of open space?" While the land can be added to the city's sphere of influence it can't be annexed until 2030 without approval from American Canyon voters It is outside of the city's growth boundaries The landowners in 2022 asked voters to include the 157 acres inside the city growth boundaries Voters rejected the request by turning down Measure J Among the Measure J opponents was the Napa County Farm Bureau The group stated farmland shouldn't be lost simply because the owners haven't achieved their desired financial return If grapes cannot be grown in the high-salinity soil The land is owned by Green Island Vineyards LLC "We're here to do something fabulous on this Green Island property for this community," he said The owners would solicit ideas so that what happens on the land meets the community's needs Napa resident Yvonne Baginski asked the council about coming up with a conservation plan which would include working with the landowners on fair return for the property a member of the Napa-Solano Audubon Society was concerned about what development on the 157-acre tract might mean for wildlife in the adjacent wetlands And we know that if we further degrade the area around them we're going to further have problems," Heidl said The City Council voted 4-1 to provide a letter of support for the sphere of influence expansion Mayor Pierre Washington and Councilmembers Oro Brando Cruz and Melissa Lamattina voted yes "We are not agreeing to have warehouses built 'We're opening the floodgates; we're going to have all kinds of industrial or warehouses or whatnot.'" Joseph said he's not opposed to eventually annexing the land He wants to have a clear understanding of what might be done on the property 'It's just a letter of support; it's just a sphere of influence; it's not an annexation; it's not a development,' you are still beginning to create expectations," he said American Canyon announced the action in a news release on March 19 "The council's letter (of support) is symbolic – it does not determine how the property will be used," the statement said transparent discussion about what happens next." You can reach Barry Eberling at 707-256-2253 or barry.eberling@napanews.com The Wolves’ walk-off win Thursday threw the Vine Valley Athletic League title race into chaos Casa Grande 2: Down 2-1 in the bottom of the seventh 1-3) scored twice Thursday to walk-off against the Gauchos (12-3 3-1) and throw the Vine Valley Athletic League title race into chaos Royce Hall tied the game at 2-all before Mason Harris ripped a two-out game-winning double to send everybody home while Hall led AmCan with two hits and two runs scored Dylan Brown had a solid day on the mound for the Wolves hurling a complete game while allowing one earned run on five hits and striking out four 2-4) scored four runs in the first inning and never looked back as they upset Vintage (8-6 Luciano Hernandez threw a complete game from the mound for Sonoma allowing one run on six hits while striking out three batters Josh Plexico and River Giraldi all notched RBIs for the Dragons while Colin Buckley and Austin Hughes each had a pair of hits 4-1) exploded for eight runs in the second inning as they ran away with a VVAL win over Napa (5-12 August Cuneo went 1-for-2 with two RBIs and Quinn Gaidmore went 2-for-2 with an RBI Jack Pattison allowed only one earned run on two hits while striking out four in three innings of work American Canyon Police is investigating accusations made by the father of a special-needs student that a contract worker physically abused the father’s autistic son on the city’s high school campus April 9 — American Canyon Police is investigating accusations made by the father of a special-needs student that a contract worker physically abused the father’s autistic son on the city’s high school campus Instagram and other social media platforms Israel Delgado alleges that Richard Wolf assaulted mistreated and insulted Delgado’s 15-year-old son who was born with the genetic condition cri-du-chat syndrome The videos began appearing on social media March 20 in a telephone interview with the Napa Valley Register this week said his son first told his mother in November that an aide had choked him at school the teen said during a drive home from school that the aide had choked him and also called him demeaning names Reports were filed with American Canyon Police and Napa County Child Welfare Services after the teen’s mother spoke to a school administrator March 10 an employee of American Canyon-based McGrew Behavior Services choked the autistic teen at American Canyon High School and placed him into an “isolation chamber” made from padded gymnastics mats the boy lifts his left hand and then his right to the camera (expletive),” Delgado says to Wolf on camera Delgado further alleges that the school allowed Wolf to continue working there even after American Canyon Police and Napa County Child Welfare Services opened investigations into him simply moving Wolf to a room next to the boy’s classroom “Apparently the other aides have reported the abuse to the teacher and the teacher really hasn’t done (expletive) about it,” Delgado says with barely controlled anger in the video A different short video on Facebook shows Delgado and his son Delgado then turns to a man and demands to know why Wolf has not been suspended Nicol Dudley of American Canyon Police confirmed April 2 that the department is investigating Delgado’s claims The accused worker is not working with the autistic teen or with other students while police and the Napa Valley Unified School District investigate according to district spokesperson Julie Bordes "The safety and well-being of our students remain our priority and while these investigations are ongoing the contract employee in question will not return to the Napa Valley Unified School District." Contact information for Wolf could not immediately be found A LinkedIn profile for Wolf that appeared briefly in Delgado’s initial video appeared to have been taken down declined to discuss details of the case in an email Monday citing the investigations into Delgado's allegations be assured that we are looking into the facts and circumstances of the issues that have been raised and will cooperate with all parties," Hernandez wrote McGrew’s website was live but its home page included only two buttons A message left with American Canyon High School Principal Karin Hatton was not returned As the videos about the alleged abuse gained wider attention online about two dozen people held a rally in the autistic student’s support April 2 after the end of classes at American Canyon High saying they had not shared investigative reports with his family to help them understand details of the alleged abuse “To me it seems like they tried to quiet it down and sweep it under the rug,” he said Delgado told the Register his main motivation is to push school districts to more thoroughly vet the people entrusted with their most vulnerable students’ care — whether those workers answer to the district or a contractor “We had no input as to whether we wanted him or not,” he said of Wolf “We got no input about his qualifications or his licensing The school just said this is your person.” “… Of course I want justice for my son; I want charges pressed," he continued the biggest thing is that this (becomes) a catalyst to mitigate the kind of experience we’ve had for our family systemic changes in how we’re vetting the people that we’re trusting our most precious treasures to.” Dudley of American Canyon Police said Wednesday the department will not release its investigative report "even to the parents" until it completes its inquiry District staff will share the outcome with the parents the educational rights holders," Bordes of NVUSD said in an email Wednesday On March 25 — five days after Delgado’s first video about the alleged abuse — a Napa County Superior Court judge granted a temporary restraining order requiring Wolf to stay away from Delgado and his son and daughter A follow-up hearing is set for Monday to determine whether the order should be made permanent You can reach Howard Yune at 707-256-2214 or howard.yune@napanews.com Napa Valley may be best known for its thirst-quenching wines but to the south of the region’s vineyards lie the hills and wetlands of American Canyon With more affordable housing than its northern neighbor budget-friendly spot for retirees who will find they are still close enough to Napa’s world-class wineries to enjoy its offerings every now and then American Canyon is also close to bigger cities like San Francisco for those seeking more urban amenities and is just a 30-minute drive from dog-friendly Albany Beach Not that there’s a lack of sun in American Canyon itself; the city is known for its Mediterranean climate boasting mild and warm winters—ideal for retirees who love an active lifestyle Local events, farmers’ markets, and a community garden lend the area a tight-knit community feel, providing a great foundation for retirees looking to make connections. There are also plenty of senior-focused classes on tap whether it’s a line-dancing class or Spanish for beginners The city is near a number of top-quality health care facilities in Napa, Vallejo, and Fairfield for seniors who need regular medical care. They can also get assistance from the Napa/Solano Area Agency on Aging, which focuses on addressing issues for older adults and developing community-based systems of care, whether it’s in the form of meal deliveries to homebound seniors or rides to recreational activities and doctor’s appointments. CaliforniaResidents can go kayaking in the Napa River bicycling and hiking along the Napa River Bay Trail or exploring in the Newell Open Space Preserve.Courtesy of American CanyonStateCaliforniaCountyNapaPopulation21,734Napa Valley may be best known for its thirst-quenching wines The city is near a number of top-quality health care facilities in Napa, Vallejo, and Fairfield for seniors who need regular medical care. They can also get assistance from the Napa/Solano Area Agency on Aging which focuses on addressing issues for older adults and developing community-based systems of care whether it’s in the form of meal deliveries to homebound seniors or rides to recreational activities and doctor’s appointments Canyon Oaks Elementary School in American Canyon on Tuesday March 11 debuted its new outdoor learning area which is equipped with abstract seating blocks and shade structures Superintendent Rosanna Mucetti of the Napa Valley Unified School District spoke to an audience outside the repainted library of American Canyon High School on Tuesday The Napa Valley Unified School District shared its progress on campus upgrades at its American Canyon schools AMERICAN CANYON — The Napa Valley Unified School District began to highlight the fruits of its tax dollars in the south county unveiling campus upgrades at Canyon Oaks Elementary School and American Canyon High School on Tuesday school officials and residents gathered at Canyon Oaks to celebrate the school's two new outdoor learning areas which include abstract seating arrangements that range from white pebble-like shapes to multicolored seating blocks After a choir performance of “Be Kind” by Canyon Oaks students NVUSD Superintendent Rosanna Mucetti told the audience the event was her first ribbon-cutting in American Canyon since taking the helm at the district in 2018 “Thank you to everyone who supported this initiative,” Mucetti said “Your investment in our schools has made these incredible improvements possible The community of American Canyon chose to invest in its children.” Funding for the project arrived by way of Measure A2 a $25 million school bond measure American Canyon voters passed in 2022 specifically for schools within the city Napa County’s 2024 Teacher of the Year Elizabeth Corey brought her third-graders to the ceremony She said the new outdoor learning spaces have given students who feel confined by the classroom a greater sense of freedom “It’s awesome that the district and this measure has helped us go where the research is going which is that kids learn in different environments,” she said “We need to be able to fill all those opportunities.” some $800,000 went or is going toward Canyon Oaks upgrades about a quarter of the audience walked a block to American Canyon High School to celebrate the new exterior paint job at the campus library which went from a base white coat to a vibrant orange Principal Karin Hatt said at the second ceremony that when she arrived for her first day July 15 we saw this beautiful paint job and the way it really changed the vibe and feeling of our campus,” Hatt said Mucetti helped put the paint job in perspective for spectators “Ongoing maintenance is crucial to ensure they continue meeting the needs of students and staff,” Mucetti said Despite (the high school campus) being so new and beautiful it’s important to protect the investment in the long term.” American Canyon High has received roughly $150,000 in Measure A2 funding The district’s website said that outside of exterior paint the school has or will receive a track replacement and new furnishings for its science According to NVUSD spokesperson Julie Bordes the next major project to be funded by Measure A2 funds is the construction of a new multipurpose room at Donaldson Way Elementary Bordes said the existing multipurpose room will be converted into a library Of the current Measure A2 expenses listed on the district’s website about $2 million is dedicated to improvements at the Donaldson Way school JLL Capital Markets facilitates the sale of 1 Middleton Way and 400 Boone Dr. Hotels & Hospitality and Capital Markets PR Your browser doesn't support speech synthesis SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 19, 2024 – JLL Capital Markets announced today the sale of two Class A industrial buildings in American Canyon a 646,000-square-foot facility on 41.8 acres The property features a 32-foot clear height cross-dock configuration with 150 loading docks four grade-level doors and ESFR sprinklers is a 702,000-square-foot building on 37.4 acres This state-of-the-art facility boasts a 40-foot clear height These strategically located properties are situated just 7.5 miles from the intersection of I-80 and I-680 in Fairfield providing excellent access to major thoroughfares throughout the Bay Area The assets benefit from proximity to significant population centers with 7.4 million residents within a 55-mile radius the properties offer premier access to multimodal transportation options and are surrounded by high-profile corporate neighbors in the area The JLL Investment Sales and Advisory team was led by Managing Director Ryan Sitov and Director Melinda Marino Senior Managing Directors Glen Dowling and Matt Bracco and Managing Director Chris Neeb served as the local market contacts “The Napa Logistics Park properties offer a rare combination of scale quality and location in the tightly constrained Bay Area market,” said Sitov “With their state-of-the-art building specifications and strong infill location these assets are well-positioned to deliver long-term value.” JLL Capital Markets is a full-service global provider of capital solutions for real estate investors and occupiers The firm's in-depth local market and global investor knowledge delivers the best-in-class solutions for clients — whether investment sales and advisory The firm has more than 3,000 Capital Markets specialists worldwide with offices in nearly 50 countries For more news, videos, and research resources, please visit JLL’s newsroom ("JLL") is a real estate broker licensed with the California Department of Real Estate EQT Exeter is a global real estate investment manager with over $30 billion of equity under management life science and residential properties in Europe With over 450 experienced professionals operating in more than 50 offices globally EQT Exeter owns and operates over 2,000 properties and 375 million square feet EQT Exeter's track record comprises over $45 billion in total property gross asset value since inception spanning over 450 million square feet globally EQT Exeter is the real estate division of EQT AB a purpose-driven global investment organization insights and opportunities from global commercial real estate markets straight to your inbox Of the four candidates running for two open seats on the City Council Melissa Lamattina and Brando Cruz are also pulling ahead of the other two candidates an American Canyon City Council member with a background in law enforcement and the Navy marking the end of nearly two decades under Mayor Leon Garcia The election also brings two new members to the City Council signaling a significant shift in local leadership Washington maintained his lead over fellow Council member David Oro in the mayoral race according to Friday’s update of election results With 69.8% of the total potential vote counted “Though this outcome is not what we hoped for I am immensely proud of our years of service and the vision we’ve shared for our city,” Oro wrote in a Facebook post and friends: your encouragement has been a gift I will forever treasure I extend my regards to Pierre Washington.” Oro will continue to be a council member for the remainder of his four-year term Washington thanked Oro for a “kind congratulations call and text” on Monday night and said he’s looking forward to continuing to work with him to “keep American Canyon moving forward.” Washington added that serving alongside Oro on the council has allowed him to witness Oro’s dedication to American Canyon firsthand The close race reflects the trust Oro has earned in the community unity and collaboration will be key to achieving great things for American Canyon,” Washington wrote embrace opportunities and ensure that our community continues to thrive for everyone In the City Council race — where the top two vote-getters will win seats — Lamattina is in first place with 31.45% Mohammed has 22.22% and Andrei Manaid has 20.46% Lamattina announced her victory in a Tuesday statement and thanked her supporters for helping to make the win happen and her friends and family who encouraged her “I want to thank the residents of American Canyon for trusting me with the responsibility of representing our shared values and aspirations,” Lamattina wrote we will continue to build a community that we can all be proud of.” The city will see the greatest shift in its City Council out of Napa County’s five municipalities regardless of the result who’s served in the role for 18 years — the longest of any current mayor in Napa County And the four candidates running for the City Council would all be new to the role New American Canyon Mayor Pierre Washington and new City Council members Melissa Lamattina and Brando Cruz took their seats after a Dec American Canyon held a swearing-in ceremony for its new mayor and two new City Council members Tuesday evening finalizing the most significant change among local government leadership that came out of the Nov The meeting was initially presided over by the City Council for the previous four years who voted unanimously to accept the election results before adjourning from the dais that has completed our work for this part of the evening,” said Leon Garcia who has served as the city’s sole elected mayor for the past 18 years to applause from an audience that packed the council chambers new council members Melissa Lamattina and Brando Cruz were sworn into their seats They take up the seats previously held by Washington and Mariam Aboudamous Napa County Supervisor Belia Ramos — who represents District 5 and is a former council member — said during the public comment period that she looked forward to working with the new council members and his “steadfast commitment” to the city its residents and “really being that person who shines a light on all the good things American Canyon has to offer.” A 157-acre area along Green Island Road is a controversial candidate for potentially entering the city of American Canyon Owners of 157 acres near both industries and marshes have succeeded in adding their former vineyard property to American Canyon’s potential growth area they convinced the Local Agency Formation Commission of Napa County to add the land to American Canyon’s sphere of influence by a 3-2 vote "Spheres of influence are powerful tools that signal possible future urban growth but they're not promises," LAFCO's executive officer Brendon Freeman said Voting in favor were LAFCO chair and former American Canyon Councilmember Kenneth Leary American Canyon City Councilmember David Oro and county Supervisor Belia Ramos Voting against the plan were county Supervisor Joelle Gallagher and Yountville Mayor Margie Mohler LAFCO representatives come from Napa County and its five cities California law gives the commission the power to decide whether local cities can expand There can be no instant annexation in this case even with the sphere-of-influence decision American Canyon has a voter-controlled growth boundary through 2030 that doesn't include the 157 acres Commissioners heard the sphere-of-influence request from the 1661 Green Island Road landowners They also heard from opponents who fear development on the property would harm nearby wetlands David Gilbreth is a manager for the landowner He said the 157 acres are poor farmland because of salty soils but have a good road system leading to the area and added that the state faces a housing supply emergency Gilbreth said the property amounts to an infill area for American Canyon and is "a missing puzzle piece" to the city's boundaries Napa County Farm Bureau CEO Peter Rumble addressed the commission His group opposes the sphere-of-influence addition because it would set a "dangerous precedent" for county farmland Save the Bay and the Greenbelt Alliance also opposed the sphere-of-influence addition In a letter to LAFCO also signed by 190 residents the groups called the land an important buffer between urban development and a sensitive shoreline but the intentions are clear,” wrote Zoe Siegel of the Greenbelt Alliance and Joshua Quigley of Save the Bay The Sierra Club Napa Group and Napa Solano Audubon Society urged trying to preserve the land with a conservation easement that pays the landowners to retire development rights Mark Stephenson of the Audubon Society mentioned nearby wetlands trails that are open to the public “People throughout the Bay Area regularly visit this area for birding and walking,” he wrote Fil-Am of American Canyon supported the sphere of influence addition President Jodl Cruz in a letter said the move could benefit open space the American Canyon City Council voted to support the landowners’ sphere-of-influence request “We are not agreeing to have warehouses built … This is just the beginning,” City Councilmember Brando Cruz said at that meeting ‘We’re opening the floodgates; we’re going to have all kind of industrial or warehouses or whatnot.’” You can reach Barry Eberling at 707-256-2253 or barry.eberling@napanews.com. Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Friends and family of Berryessa's Turtle Rock bar collected the money pined to the ceiling of the cafe to donate to UCSF and celebrate the 15-year 'cancerversary' of Elijah Leung. Most of Napa’s River Park Shopping Center tenants cater to locals, not wine country visitors. Now a handful of tenants have left the center, or plan to. What's up at River Park?  The sheriff's office reported seizing 13 roosters from a Carneros site where it said the birds were altered and trained to fight other male birds. Take a ride around Napa on these motorized ADA-compliant scooters made to look like various critters and creatures, courtesy of Napa Valley Rydables. Judge Scott R.L. Young denied a bid by Alan Jazeel Martinez to dismiss a second-degree murder charge for the death of 17-year-old Monica Flores after a fentanyl overdose in 2022. Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. Receive a daily update, along with our weekly Thursday e-edition. Your account has been registered, and you are now logged in. Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password. An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account. Dear Reader,Unfortunately our comment platform isn\'t available at the moment due to issues with our paywall and authentication vendor. Thanks for your patience. After becoming the first Napa County school to win a section title since 2007 and the first from the county to win a Northern California title, AmCan is seeking to add another first — state champion. Division 5-A: American Canyon (12-2) vs. Palmdale (10-5), 11 a.m., Long Beach City College — Northern California Division 5-A champion — Averaging 427 total yards per game, 37 points per game — QB Mason Harris: 1,196 yards passing, 13 touchdowns; 1,551 yards rushing, 24 touchdowns — RB Andre Lopez: 1,711 yards rushing, 22 touchdowns, nine games with over 100 rushing yards — LB Jona Budu: 94 total tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, four sacks — Southern California Division 5-A champion — Averaging 319 yards, 35 total points per game — QB Joshua Suarez: 2,231 yards passing, 40 touchdowns in 10 games played — WR Paul Turner: 52 catches for 990 yards, 15 touchdowns — WR Christian Conley: 51 catches for 876 yards, 13 touchdowns — WR Zason Walker: 42 catches for 775 yards, 11 touchdowns It’s a phrase that is emblazoned on the back of American Canyon High School’s football helmets. But this season, it’s become a mantra for an entire community. “’Wolves vs. Everybody’ means anybody and everybody that’s not on this football team,” American Canyon head coach Trevor Hudson said. “That means anybody that has doubted us, anybody that thinks we can’t get it done, anybody that’s not representing the Wolves — then you become everybody.” Hudson has been using the expression since the first day he stepped onto American Canyon’s campus as head coach in 2023. Now, “Wolves vs. Everybody” has helped propel his team to the first-ever state title game in program history. After becoming the first Napa County school to win a section title since 2007 and the first school from the county to win a Northern California title last weekend, AmCan is seeking to add another first in Napa sports history — state champion. To do so, the Wolves will have to beat Palmdale in Saturday’s Division 5-A title game in Long Beach. Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. As the team made the trip down 1-5 Thursday morning and then practiced at St. John Bosco High School in Bellflower, the reality of what they will be facing began to set in. Palmdale (10-5), a fast, aggressive team located north of Los Angeles, has turned its season completely around after starting the year 1-4. The Falcons have gone 9-1 over the final 10 games of the season to win the Southern Section Division 12 title and the Southern California Division 5-A crown. “This is going to be like a NASCAR event, speed versus speed,” Hudson said of the matchup. “Once No. 1 came in at quarterback, they are 8-1 when he throws for over 300 yards and 2-4 when he doesn’t. “So we need to stop the pass, but that’s easier said than done. We also know we need to be prepared offensively and defensively, and a good offense can also lead to a better defense.” The No. 1 Hudson mentioned is junior Falcons QB Joshua Suarez, a 6-foot-2 gunslinger who has passed for 2,231 yards and 40 touchdowns in just 10 games played. He missed the first five games of the season due to transfer sit-out rules. Suarez can get the ball to anybody, as three of his receivers each have more than 700 yards on the year. Sophomore Paul Turner leads the way with 52 catches for 990 yards and 15 touchdowns, while senior Christian Conley has 51 catches for 876 yards and 13 scores. Zason Walker, another sophomore, has 42 catches for 775 yards and 11 TDs. While the Falcons don’t have a standout running back to complement Suarez in the backfield, they do have a plethora of backs who can do damage, including Marciano Salazar, Joseph Mason, Mikeen Walker and Elleyon Clark. Yet with all the speed that the Falcons possess, the Wolves might just have what it takes to match them in what figures to be a battle. American Canyon QB Mason Harris is a true dual threat on offense, throwing for 1,196 yards and 13 touchdowns this season. On the ground, he has totaled 1,551 yards and 24 touchdowns. Harris is complemented in the backfield by running back Andre Lopez, who has pounded out 1,711 yards and 22 touchdowns on the ground. He has nine games with over 100 rushing yards this year. And on defense, linebacker Jona Budu is nearing 100 tackles on the year to go along with his four sacks. “These boys have been defying history and odds all year long,” Hudson said of his team. “We have enough and they can get the job done. We’re all we got — and we’re all we need.” You can reach Staff Writer Kienan O’Doherty at 415-887-8650 or kienan.odoherty@pressdemocrat.com. On X (Twitter) @kodoherty22. The school district and police department have launched investigations into the case. A father says a special education aide at American Canyon High School choked his 15-year-old son in a school bathroom, wounded his hands, isolated him in darkened spaces and deprived him of food and water throughout the school day. The teenager, who has autism and a rare genetic disorder called Cri-du-chat syndrome, was allegedly abused repeatedly by the aide, according to the boy’s father, Israel Delgado. Delgado shared the allegations in a series of emotional Instagram and TikTok videos posted March 20 — posts that have since drawn hundreds of thousands of views and sparked outrage from families across the community. Both the Napa Valley Unified School District and the American Canyon Police Department have launched investigations. “I am super heartbroken and distraught to find out that his aide has been physically abusing him,” Delgado said in one of the videos, which has been viewed nearly 250,000 times. “My son told me his aide choked him when they were in the bathroom. His aide has been creating lacerations on his hands. He’s been creating makeshift isolation chambers for my son with blue gymnast mats and a layer on top so it’s completely dark. My son’s been deprived of food and water.” Screenshots included in the video identified the aide, whose LinkedIn profile has since been deleted. The individual is employed by McGrew Behavior Services, a third-party contractor based in American Canyon, not by the school district itself. In an email to parents, the school confirmed the aide would not be allowed on any Napa Valley Unified campus while investigations are underway. Officials said both the district and law enforcement are actively looking into the matter. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Israel Aeon (@eljaguars) who appeared in one of Delgado’s livestreams from campus attributed the aide’s continued presence at the school — even after a complaint had been filed earlier that week — to the outside agency She called it an “oversight” by McGrew Behavior Services a spokesperson for the company said it is conducting an internal investigation but declined to comment further including on the aide’s current employment status “Be assured that we are looking into the facts and circumstances of the issues that have been raised and will cooperate with all parties,” the company said Following Delgado’s public confrontation at the school he was issued a two-week stay-away order from campus Nicol Dudley said the directive was based on “threatening and disruptive behavior at the school.” Dudley confirmed the police investigation into possible child abuse remains active and said the case will be referred to the Napa County District Attorney’s Office if sufficient evidence of a crime is found the Napa County Superior Court has granted Delgado a temporary restraining order against the aide extending protections to both his son and daughter until a court hearing later this month Delgado said his son continues to struggle in the aftermath “My son’s relieved the aide is no longer at school,” he said It’s hard for me to see how badly it’s affected him I haven’t slept well since I found out about it.” He’s now seeking care from a psychologist with experience in autism to help his son recover about 20 people held a peaceful demonstration Wednesday afternoon at the school’s main entrance they gathered to demand “justice for Alex.” “I have two autistic grandchildren and I know they can’t speak for themselves We have to speak for them,” said Julie Nash Protesters — including Delgado’s family and friends as well as a few American Canyon High students — stood across from the school with signs and masks Several drivers honked in support as they exited campus “It’s very touching to have the support of the community,” Delgado said “and see there’s people to advocate for those who don’t have a voice.” is for systemic change to ensure the safety of not just his son You can reach Tarini Mehta at 707-521-5337 or tarini.mehta@pressdemocrat.com A house that sold for $809,000 tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in American Canyon in the past three weeks 11 residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past three weeks The average price per square foot ended up at $352 The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded from the week of Mar 31 to the week of April 19 even if the property may have been sold earlier The sale of the single-family house at 532 Donaldson Way in American Canyon has been finalized and the new owners took over the house in April The house was built in 1955 and has a living area of 1,408 square feet The property at 6 Flamingo Court in American Canyon has new owners The house was built in 1956 and has a living area of 1,289 square feet The sale of the single family residence at 11 Daniel Drive in American Canyon has been finalized The house was built in 1999 and has a living area of 1,965 square feet A sale has been finalized for the single-family house at 250 Marcus Road in American Canyon The price was $760,000 and the new owners took over the house in April The house was built in 2023 and the living area totals 1,862 square feet The price per square foot ended up at $408 The 2,236 square-foot single-family residence at 23 Via Bellagio in American Canyon has been sold The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $776,000 The 2,796 square-foot single-family home at 422 Kensington Way in American Canyon has been sold The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $809,000 Italian exchange student Edoardo “Edo” Pelagatti certainly found beginner’s luck in his first season on the gridiron Edoardo Pelagatti was on American Canyon High School’s campus for only two days before he stepped onto the football field for the first time The Italian teenager came to the United States — and specifically the Napa County community — on Aug he joined the Wolves’ practice while dressed in a soccer jersey and soccer cleats knowing nothing about the sport Americans call football Pelagatti and his teammates are celebrating a state championship to cap a magical season in which he played an integral part as the Wolves’ placekicker “They should call this kid automatic — he doesn’t miss,” American Canyon head coach Trevor Hudson said of Pelagatti learned American football and dominated his position,” the coach said “There are not many kids who can do what he’s done through the pressure His experience is the true meaning of the American dream.” Pelagatti played the sport most Italians play while growing up — soccer even far from home — every match of his beloved Lazio team which plays in Italy’s top professional division Looking for an exchange program through which he could visit the U.S. learn the language and experience the culture Pelagatti connected with a host family in American Canyon When he arrived in California before the start of this school year it took the convincing of family friend Luca Dorigatti — as well as a new acquaintance Napa County Sheriff Oscar Ortiz — for Pelagatti to don football pads That one practice was all Pelagatti needed to impress the AmCan coaches who where eager to swap out his soccer jersey and cleats for football gear To say it paid off is an understatement. Pelagatti went 72-of-75 on extra-point attempts, including a perfect 4-for-4 in AmCan’s 68-47 state championship victory over Palmdale last weekend in Long Beach. He also connected on two field goal attempts this season for a total of 78 points scored the 17-year-old senior was named the Redwood Empire Conference Valley division’s specialist of the year But learning to kicking a football took some time Pelagatti had his “welcome to football” moment on his first field goal attempt and I went up to catch the ball without looking to my left or my right,” he recalled continued to improve and helped the Wolves advance all the way to last week’s state finale The soccer-crazed teen said being part of helping the Wolves win the state trophy almost certainly outweighs how he might feel seeing his beloved Lazio win one because he won it with what he considers his new family “I never experienced anything like that,” Pelagatti said about the state championship victory at Long Beach City College who has moved on to playing in the central midfield for the Wolves’ soccer team this winter will finish out the remainder of this school year to graduate with his fellow seniors he’s considering sticking around in the U.S The project is envisioned as an education hub offices and an outdoor deck overlooking the wetlands A project to redevelop a city-owned corporation yard building in American Canyon into an education-focused ecology center next to wetlands is moving forward with construction expected to start late this year or early in 2026 The project was envisioned by the American Canyon Community and Parks Foundation nonprofit starting in 2021 as a permanent education hub offices for the foundation and an outdoor deck overlooking the wetlands “Concerns about climate and the environment are at an all-time high and the goal of this project is to provide a community education and conservation center which can be a home base for programming and a place where people can gather and connect with nature,” said Janelle Sellick That first physical step — moving the foundation office to the two-story 5,000-square-foot building at 205 Wetlands Edge Road — is expected to happen over the next few weeks That will allow the foundation full access to the roughly three-acre corporation yard property and it will provide us with some much-needed space and allow us to offer more tours,” Sellick said The city’s public works department is vacating the corporation yard Many of the services and vehicles there have been moved to the city’s Wastewater Treatment facility at 151 Mezzetta Court according to interim assistant city manager Juan Gomez The city is expecting to hand over the keys to the foundation in mid-January Sellick said the foundation hopes to break ground in late 2025 or early 2026 The design for the center was finished in late 2024 and the foundation has begun its permitting process aiming to be complete in late spring or summer The American Canyon City Council approved a long-term lease for the project site in February helped secure federal grant funds of $850,000 to help create the center Thompson announced he had secured an additional $2.5 million in federal funding for the project The foundation has secured about $5.5 million in funding overall and is seeking to close a $3.5 million gap this year The group recently submitted a grant application to the California Wildlife Conservation Board for $3.7 million It expects to hear back in the late spring “I think we’ve been moving along at a slow but very steady pace while making sure that our efforts are sustainable and bringing the project to groundbreaking,” Sellick said American Canyon’s Pierre Washington is focused on public safety and building up entertainment opportunities for the community American Canyon Mayor Pierre Washington’s office on the second floor of city hall was mostly empty Tuesday morning aside from two desks five chairs and the California state and American flags near the window Washington, 61, hasn’t fully moved in yet. He said he’s put more attention since his win in the November election on being out in the community It’s only been about a month since he was sworn into the mayoral seat and succeeded Leon Garcia who served as the city’s first elected mayor for the past 18 years Washington called Garcia a mentor and friend crediting him with smoothing the rough edges Washington said he picked up during his law enforcement career which included 22 years in the Richmond Police Department but I’m prepared to fill them,” Washington said He is coming off his first four-year term as a council member an experience he said helped him understand the people and players in the city is mostly the same: Washington represents one of five votes on the council The council also oversees City Manager Jason Holley who manages the city’s day-to-day operations Washington said he understands his role beyond that as being a facilitator for the council — he now leads the meetings and casts the tiebreaking vote if the council members are deadlocked — and as a community liaison He’s well acquainted with the other council members having already served with council veterans Mark Joseph and David Oro As for the two new members also sworn in on Dec Washington said he’s long been friends with Melissa Lamattina and that he mentored Brando Cruz over the past four years “I like the challenge of having two supporting cast (members) and then two new people to kind of bring up to speed.” who describes himself as being a “servant leader” since age 17 that leadership philosophy refers to striving to serve the needs of others an effort that ties into mentoring people and setting up succession planning He contrasted the philosophy with leaders who don’t want others to overcome them who attempt to hold on to power or hoard information “I’d rather help and support others than try to use positions to say that I am the boss or I am in charge,” Washington said People trust him because they know he’s willing to help out and that ultimately comes back to benefit him as well “And I know that when I’m no longer here things will still move smoothly going forward and no one has to try to recreate the wheel.” Washington moved to American Canyon in 2006 after retiring as a detective with the Richmond Police Department His priority then was to find a place where his family felt safe and where his kids — he’s the father of seven — could get a good education and said many public safety professionals have moved to the city for the same reasons His goals as mayor generally seek to reinforce those community strengths by building up local entertainment and recreational options while continuing to prioritize public safety Rather than attempting to shape American Canyon into a destination for visitors Washington said his focus is on what the city can do to serve residents “I think our identity is more of what we can do from a community base and what we can do to keep our community safe and also provide entertainment for within,” Washington said He said residents in much of the rest of Napa County also are beginning to understand that American Canyon is a more affordable option that’s still within the county That appeal ties in part to some of his other priorities around the city’s growth He wants to make sure the Napa Valley Ruins and Gardens project — one part of the Watson Ranch development of over 1,200 homes in the northeast part of the city — moves forward as planned The center is planned for an area that features remnants of American Canyon’s industrial history and is set to include a 200-room hotel and 30 residential units along with community gathering space Washington said he thinks the city can do better in not putting bureaucratic barriers in front of that project along with generally removing red tape that gets in the way of providing services His third priority is to find more to do for local kids including a youth-focused regional recreation center No such facility exists across Napa County and one in American Canyon could draw interest from other communities “That will help give the youth things to do it’ll help employment for our residents,” Washington said Washington added that he’d also like to see child care services bolstered And he’d like to bring a biotechnology industry presence into American Canyon Washington works as a contractor with biotech company Lonza which in October 2024 acquired Vacaville’s Genentech biologics manufacturing site where Washington previously worked as head of security Having a biotech presence in American Canyon would help to diversify the city’s economy They’re leaving our city during the day,” Washington said Washington added that he wanted residents to know he’s open to meeting with them and that people can reach him via email or phone He added that he’s going to try to put together a newsletter each month to keep people aware of what’s going on and I’ll be that servant leader for the community,” Washington said The lawsuit names the Napa Valley Unified School District It stems from criminal allegations involving a teacher who was charged earlier this year A former American Canyon High School teacher “groomed” a student he’s accused of sexually abusing according to a recent lawsuit that also alleges school officials punished a classmate who reported the alleged abuse earlier this year The lawsuit, filed on Oct. 29 in Napa County Superior Court, names the Napa Valley Unified School District and Brad Rowell, a Sonoma resident and the teacher arrested and charged in April. of sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress; and the school district of negligent supervision of students and negligent hiring It elaborates on events that led to Rowell’s arrest and claims school officials mishandled the matter when it was reported by a girl identified as Student 1 “One must ask how Rowell felt bold enough to commit this abuse so openly and obviously and on school campus so many times,” Jane Doe’s attorney “We believe former Principal Andrew Goff and other NVUSD employees’ failure to report the abuse – instead choosing to punish the young student who bravely reported it – is part of the answer to that question.” Goff was charged in June with a misdemeanor count of failing to report suspected criminal activity as a mandated reporter a person whose duty is to report known or suspected abuse or neglect He was placed on administrative leave in June and school district officials did not immediately return a request for comment Tuesday regarding the lawsuit’s allegations Rowell continues to be held at the Napa County jail and also could not be reached for comment Tuesday where he faces 16 counts of lewd acts on a minor two counts of oral copulation of a minor and one count of possessing child pornography Three of Rowell’s lewd acts charges relate to alleged activity between August 2008 and January 2010 in Stanislaus County involving a victim identified as Jane Doe 2 Investigators previously said Rowell and Jane Doe 1 engaged in sexual acts on campus when she was 15 including in a weight room and janitorial closet were more than 1,300 texts between the two including sexually explicit photos and videos of the teen which investigators say Rowell had requested Rowell took interest in Jane Doe when she began attending American Canyon High School in fall 2022 as a freshman and Rowell used his position as a physical education teacher and cross country coach to manipulate her He’s accused of frequently complimenting her fitness making playful jokes and providing special attention like having a secret handshake he wrote in a letter Jane Doe was his favorite student They continued to spend time together into the 2023-24 school year including running alone and driving together to and from cross country practice “Plaintiff had never had a boyfriend or romantic relationship before and Rowell’s attention felt confusing but flattering,” the complaint states “When plaintiff felt insecure and confused Rowell reassured plaintiff that she could trust him reminding plaintiff that he was her teacher and coach The abuse began that summer and continued into the 2023-24 school year It says Rowell took measures to be alone with Jane Doe on campus including using “Academic Support passes” signed by staff to allow her to leave class and visit him Rumors and concern about their relationship became prevalent in November 2023 The complaint states Student 1 reported the matter in early April to a school counselor who consulted with a colleague before speaking to Goff It alleges none of them contacted authorities and that Goff instead approached Rowell It states Rowell claimed Student 1 “was the real problem and was obsessed with him.” He asked Goff to remove her from his class and the principal complied Student 1’s mother twice contacted Goff in early April about the poor response and her complaint made its way to a school resource officer Jane Doe verified she and Rowell had an inappropriate sexual relationship and he was arrested shortly after The matter continued to be discussed around campus and a teacher “spoke to his students inappropriately and offensively about the sexual abuse,” according to the complaint Students accused the teacher of victim blaming when the teacher defended Rowell and told the students “his career is ruined” and that Jane Doe must have done something wrong to be arrested Officials have said Jane Doe was never arrested the teacher was surprised when the students told him she was still at school following Rowell’s arrest “He later implied that plaintiff could be back at school because she was on bail perpetuating the harmful and false rumor circulating on campus that plaintiff had indeed been arrested,” the complaint states told The Press Democrat on Tuesday that her client continues to attend American Canyon High School “Jane Doe is doing about as well as you can expect a child in her circumstances to be,” she said “She and her family are hopeful that this lawsuit will hold the school district accountable for its failure to keep our children safe.” You can reach Staff Writer Colin Atagi at colin.atagi@pressdemocrat.com Brad Rowell pleaded guilty to ten counts involving two victims unlawful sexual intercourse and oral copulation of a minor A former cross-country coach at American Canyon High School has been sentenced to 15 years in state prison after he pleaded guilty last month in a child molestation case pleaded guilty in Napa County Superior Court to 10 counts The case came to light in 2024 when a 15-year-old student at American Canyon High School reported that Rowell had sexually abused her on campus during the 2023-24 school year Further investigation found that he had also molested a child between 2008 and 2010 in Stanislaus County the American Canyon High School student addressed the court and an impact statement written by her mother was read aloud “I understand how physically traumatizing it was,” said Judge Scott R.L “and what a devastating and heartbreaking experience it’s been for you and your family — the physical trauma post-traumatic stress disorder and how it destroyed your trust.” He said he hoped the sentence would give the victims closure He also said children must be safe at schools so they can thrive Rowell will be subject to lifetime registration as a sex offender as well as making restitution payments to the victims The sentencing followed the terms of the plea agreement between Rowell and the district attorney’s office Rowell has the right to appeal within 60 days of the date of sentencing Rowell was charged with crimes against two victims in two different jurisdictions The most recent offenses occurred in the 2023-24 school year when Rowell was a cross country coach at American Canyon High School Rowell molested a child who was under 14 years of age in Stanislaus County according to additional charges filed earlier this year Both victims were consulted and supported the plea agreement according to a statement released by the district attorney’s office in December after the 15-year-old American Canyon High School student reported the allegations to a school resource officer who informed Napa County sheriff’s investigators he pleaded not guilty to all counts in that case In June, the school’s then-Interim Principal Andrew Goff was charged with a misdemeanor of failing to report Rowell’s criminal activity as a mandated reporter He was placed on administrative leave and will not be returning according to the school district’s spokesperson Goff faces a jury trial beginning next month the family of the American Canyon High School student also filed a lawsuit against Rowell and the Napa Valley Unified School District seeking unspecified damages They sued the school district for alleged negligence A case management conference for this lawsuit is scheduled for April 10 12:30 p.m.): This story has been updated to correct the position held by Rowell at American Canyon High School Congratulations to American Canyon Middle School students who ranked on the Honor Roll for the First Trimester A sketch of Christopher Young entering a Napa County courtroom June 9 before his sentencing for the 2020 murder of Nathan Gabriel Garza has appealed his conviction for the 2020 murder of Nathan Gabriel Garza will challenge his conviction for the 2020 murder of a supermarket worker in American Canyon The 28-year-old Martinez native filed an appeal of his murder conviction Feb 25 in the state’s 1st District Court of Appeal Young is serving a lifetime sentence without parole in the Salinas Valley State Prison after a Napa County jury convicted him of first-degree murder in 2023 for the shooting of 18-year-old Nathan Gabriel Garza outside the Safeway where the Fairfield resident and incoming college student was working an hour after a gunman in a Cadillac sedan fatally shot Garza in a parking-lot area for drive-up deliveries American Canyon residents reported seeing a man running down streets and through yards shortly after the slaying and before Young was detained on Wetlands Edge Road law enforcement officials and prosecutors later said After spending 33 months in the Napa County jail Young went on trial in Napa County Superior Court in March 2023 on charges of murder firearm and ammunition possession by a felon and giving a false name to police officers Jurors found him guilty in May after a six-week trial Prosecutors described Garza during the trial as the unwitting victim of Young’s retaliation not against him — the two men had never met — but against Safeway after Young was one of three people stopped by police at the chain’s Cordelia supermarket a week earlier and Young was cited for having a drug pipe — a citation prosecutors said could have left him in legal peril because he was on probation for an earlier arrest in Alameda County Young’s defense lawyer Michael Keeley tried to implicate Young’s friend Tyler Howell for the shooting Howell — whose brother was one of the two people arrested in Cordelia the week before — was riding in the Cadillac with Young before he shot Garza and then fled leaving Young to face the police on his own Both sides in the murder trial clashed over matters of evidence The office of District Attorney Allison Haley presented more than 500 items of evidence — including security video from the Safeway and an Airbnb rental house where Young and Howell stayed the night before the shooting — to trace Young’s whereabouts before and after Garza’s death entering the car from which the shots were later fired prosecutors argued that Howell was in a deep heroin-induced sleep for eight hours and did not know Young had taken his car until after Garza was killed.) Keeley told jurors that a woman who was near Garza just before he was killed pointed to Howell’s face and not Young’s when shown a photo lineup later wavered on her identification of the suspect American Canyon is the best place in US to retire affordably While Napa County may have earned a reputation for high living costs along with its world-class wineries the city of American Canyon is bucking the trend and being called the best place in the country to retire affordably The city topped Fortune’s list of “Best Places to Retire Affordably” for 2024 the financial news website said it looked at over 2,000 cities and compared nearly 200 data categories across health care In naming American Canyon to the No Fortune said the southern Napa County city is more affordable than its neighbors while still being close enough to Napa Valley’s offerings to be an “attractive The median sale price in American Canyon is $735,000, according to real estate website Zillow. The city also boasts what Fortune called a Mediterranean climate of mild and warm winters that is “ideal for retirees who love an active lifestyle.” Additionally, Fortune said American Canyon is near a number of top-quality health care facilities. Retirees can also take advantage of the Napa/Solano Area Agency on Aging to get help with meal deliveries for home-bound seniors or rides to recreational activities and medical appointments Fortune said that nearly 60% of residents polled believed American Canyon is “a perfect place” to live Get more information at fortune.com. A house located at 250 Marcus Road in American Canyon has a new owner The $760,000 purchase price works out to $408 per square foot The property occupies a lot of 3,909 square feet Other houses have recently been purchased nearby: Three years after American Canyon passed a $25 million school bond students and staff are seeing the results — from new outdoor learning spaces to long-overdue facility upgrades across local campuses With new outdoor learning spaces for elementary students and a fresh coat of vibrant paint at the high school American Canyon is beginning to see the impact of the $25 million school bond voters approved three years ago The Napa Valley Unified School District celebrated recent facility improvements at Canyon Oaks Elementary School and American Canyon High School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday “When our voters support school bond measures it is a transgenerational investment in our community,” Superintendent Rosanna Mucetti said at the event “You not only invested in the kids that are here today but you invested in future kids — the ones that aren’t even born yet but will come and be fortunate to be raised here in the city of American Canyon.” Funded by a tax increase on local property owners Measure A2 was designed to repair and upgrade schools in American Canyon It was one of two school bond measures the district placed on the 2022 ballot — $25 million for American Canyon and $200 million for Napa Two years later, the school district managed to push through a $230 million bond for Napa schools by fewer than 40 votes. Work on those projects began this year some projects funded by Measure A2 in American Canyon are nearing completion the district had spent nearly $3 million of Measure A2 funds About 40% of that — roughly $1.2 million — has gone toward improvements at Donaldson Way Elementary where a new multipurpose room is under construction Canyon Oaks Elementary School has seen the addition of outdoor learning spaces and a new public address system on the way all buildings received a fresh coat of paint resurfaced track and updated STEM classroom furniture still to come American Canyon Middle School is also set to receive upgrades a resurfaced track and heating-cooling system replacements The bond program is being managed by Fairfield-based Van Pelt Construction Services which was also awarded a $10 million contract in January to oversee the district’s Measure B projects once-overlooked courtyards have been transformed into shaded outdoor learning spaces with synthetic turf and new seating areas Assistant Superintendent Rob Mangewala said they aimed to reimagine the courtyards which had been unusable in bad weather and lacked basic amenities like shade and seating were designed to create spaces for relaxation Vice Principal Martha Franco said the changes have already made an impact making connections with their friends and building relationships,” she said “We have kiddos from the upper grades working with the little kids in these spaces.” all buildings received a fresh coat of paint last summer “The bright paint gives you a happy feeling,” junior Itzel Trujillo said “It has changed the vibe at school a little bit — people are more upbeat now.” Superintendent Mucetti emphasized that the repainting wasn’t just about aesthetics — it was a strategic investment in student learning and long-term campus upkeep She said too many districts focus on new construction but neglect maintenance Ensuring these investments last has been a district priority While American Canyon’s $25 million Measure A2 passed in 2022 Napa voters initially rejected their bond measure before approving a larger $230 million one in 2024 the school board decided for the first time to propose two separate bond measures for Napa and American Canyon to address the differing needs of schools in the two cities While five schools fall in the American Canyon region there was a feeling in both communities that tax dollars were not staying in their cities when they passed a school bond,” Napa Unified board trustee Eve Ryser told The Press Democrat we thought it would be a worthy thing to explore in our tax-sensitive area.” This distinction was even supported by Jack Gray and Leon Brauning founders of the Napa County Taxpayers Association because it kept local taxpayers’ dollars in their local community With several projects completed and more underway district officials say the bond’s impact is already being felt across American Canyon’s schools While improvements like outdoor learning spaces and fresh paint may seem small school leaders argue they contribute to a stronger learning environment — one that will benefit students for years to come we say you matter and we care about you,” Superintendent Mucetti said “It demonstrates our dedication to fostering inviting spaces.” four-legged friends took part in the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday morning Nearly 700 people – some wearing Santa caps antlers and other holiday finery - took part in the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk Participants take photos with a volunteer dressed as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer before the start of the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday morning Participants are seen moving through Wetlands Edge Park during the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk 5K on Saturday The winner of the 14th Annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk 10-kilometer race at Wetlands Edge Park Cortes ran the race in 34 minutes and 9.50 seconds Participants dressed as the mischievous brothers Heat Miser and Snow Miser from the animated movie "A Miser Brothers' Christmas," smile as they cross the finish line of the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk in Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday Verona Bandong pins a number on her daughter Kristen before the start of the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday A spectator cheers on participants at the start of the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk 5k at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday Participants are cheered on by American Canyon High School cheerleaders as they compete in the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday Participants celebrated as they crossed the finish line of the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday Young participants warm up before the start of the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday Participants in antler-like headpieces gather before the start of the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday A young participant is cheered on by volunteers while nearing the finish line of the 14th annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday Participants Kathy and Ellie Beistel dance before the start of the 14th Annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk 5k at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday A scene from the 14th Annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday and Mikayla Yturralde cheer on participants in the 14th Annual American Canyon Reindeer Run/Walk 5k at Wetlands Edge Park on Saturday An early-morning vehicle pursuit on Tuesday that began in American Canyon ended with the driver’s arrest in Vallejo An early-morning vehicle pursuit that began in American Canyon ended with the driver’s arrest in Vallejo an American Canyon Police officer saw a Dodge sedan speeding south on Highway 29 near Donaldson Way The officer also noticed that the driver was weaving and struggling to stay in his lane the driver instead continued on to Vallejo and a pursuit ensued the driver repeated waved his hand out a window and appeared to be shouting only to speed up again to as fast as 80 mph and run several red lights The officer finally disabled the Dodge by using a PIT (Precision Immobilization Technique) maneuver to stop the car at Magazine Street and Lincoln Avenue in Vallejo identified as 19-year-old Samuel Marron Cortes of Vallejo Police at the scene found an open whiskey bottle on the floor of the Dodge according to the department’s news release Marron Cortes was booked into the Napa County jail for investigation of evading police officers and driving under the influence A local collaboration with Chandi Hospitality Group led to a 10-restaurant deal for the fried chicken restaurant chain across the San Francisco Bay Area and in Sacramento restaurant will open in American Canyon Thursday Sonoma County celebrity chef Guy Fieri and rock 'n' roll front man Sammy Hagar in a promotional image for Santo Tequila Chandi Hospitality Group senior vice president/COO Joti Chandi and founder/president Sonu Chandi pose for a portrait at the rebuilt Mountain Mike's Pizza location on Cleveland Avenue in Santa Rosa on Wednesday The first Bay Area outpost of celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s Chicken Guy 43-seat fast-casual restaurant is part of an exclusive 10-restaurant deal with Santa Rosa-based Chandi Hospitality Group to open the popular chicken tender restaurants across the San Francisco Bay Area and in Sacramento “We are immensely proud to open our first Chicken Guy marking the beginning of our 10-unit partnership with this exciting offers a flavor-packed dining experience that we know will resonate with Napa County locals and visitors alike and we are confident it will quickly become a community staple as we expand the brand throughout Northern California.” The chicken-centric menu — created by founders Fieri and Robert Earl the CEO of Planet Hollywood — centers around battered and brined fried chicken tenders that are pressure-cooked and served with a selection of 10 sauces including Fieri’s famous Donkey Sauce as well as bourbon brown sugar barbecue garlic Parmesan and Nashville hot honey sauce Sandwiches will include the Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ with grilled or fried chicken tenders pickles and barbecue kettle chips all stuffed under a bun; the Buffalo Mac ‘N’ Cheese with tenders buffalo mac and cheese and garlic Parmesan sauce; and the Pepperoni Chicken Parm The restaurant also features hand-spun shakes pickle chips and fried chicken dumplings with smoked bacon drizzled with Donkey Sauce Chandi Hospitality Group currently owns seven Mountain Mike’s Pizza restaurants and oversees an additional 12 locations throughout Northern California. The group also owns Beer Baron Bar & Kitchen in downtown Santa Rosa, where it previously operated several additional restaurants, including Bollywood Bar & Clay Oven, which closed in 2020 opened in 2018 at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando The chain now has additional locations in Florida Atlantic City and at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas but that location is not considered a full restaurant since it has a limited menu and no kitchen The new Chicken Guy! restaurant at 200 American Canyon Road will be open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. chickenguy.com Stay tuned for more details on additional Chicken Guy You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats.