As you might guess, the Chefs Market can generate a lot of trash at the end of the night. Julie Morales, who organizes the event, said “enough is enough,” and decided that this was the year that a strong recycling program was put in place.

To do that, she called the A Team — Heidi Hamler and the students at New Tech High. The students helped us organize the program, and most importantly, have attended every single Chefs Market to show folks what goes in what cans. The result? Chefs Market has reduced the amount of waste that goes to landfills by more than 80 percent.

The thanks for this great effort really go to the students — Maria Gonzalez, Geraldine Modesto, Evan Thibeau, Sara Shimel, Haleigh Niles, Tyler Rasmusson and James Holder. Next time you attend a Chefs Market, and with the help of one of these students toss your recyclable and compostable waste into the right can, thank them. They have been volunteering their time all summer to make this a better Napa, and a better planet.

Viva la France

Tuesday, July 14 is Bastille Day, which is just as good a reason as any for Napans to celebrate. The Oxbow Public Market will expand its locals night into a locals day, with lots for people to enjoy as they celebrate “Napastille Day.”

The fun starts for kids at 10 a.m., with chalk drawing on the Farm stand walkway. There will be a working fire truck on display, courtesy of the Napa Fire Department, and live chickens and roosters, ready for petting, from Hudson Ranch. Bring the kids and grandkids and watch them have fun.

Adults can enjoy live wine-barrel making by Nadalie USA.

Drop your favorite French dessert off with the Wine Merchant by 11 a.m. and be eligible for a judging by three Napa professionals. Music starts at 2 p.m., with accordion players roaming the market. Allison Lovejoy, a kid-friendly pianist, will be inside at 4 p.m., and at 6 p.m. the Frisky Frolics will play on the north deck. All the Oxbow merchants will feature a Carte du Jour — a special of the day. And remember, this is all on locals night. All the usual fun activities with a French twist. Call the Oxbow Public Market for more information at 226-6529, or visit www.oxbowpublicmarket.com.

Jammin’ at Pics

Piccolino’s, in the Napa Town Center at First and Franklin, is introducing a whole new entertainment lineup, beginning July 13. Matt Applin and the Midnight Band will be the opening band and serve as the evening’s hosts to three other acts: Mary Jenson, Dallon Santos and Johnny Smith. Those three might play solo, and they might invite other band members to join them. Anything goes, but plan to indulge in a rhythmic collision of rock, Motown, fine jazz and acoustic finger-picking good times. There is no cover charge, so reservations are a good idea. 7 to 10 p.m.. 251-0100.

Here’s a teaser

Elvin Bishop will headline the free Blues, Brews & BBQ event in downtown Napa on Saturday, Aug. 29. The only things that might be better than the music will be the selection of micro brews and, of course, an array of great BBQ. Okay, maybe the best thing is that admission is free. See you downtown!

Craig Smith is the executive director of the Napa Downtown Association, and can be reached at 257-0322 or craig@napadowntown.com.