The Dirt: December 2023

DECEMBER 2023

Free • Local Events Calendar www.thedirt.online • @thedirt.davis

DAVIS RAINBOW CITY PARK Local Indie Band Takes Off

PURPLE TREE CAFE EXPANDS Brick & Mortar to open Next Year

HOLIDAY GRIEF

Community-Based Support

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INSIDE THE ISSUE

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EDITOR’S NOTE •

I’ve celebrated the holidays all over the country, from West Virginia to West Palm Beach, even Washington, D.C.—and I can tell you, no where does it quite like Yolo County.

Whether you’re making time for the Tractor Parade or the Madrigals Dinner, making wreaths on the farm or scheduling a holiday Photo by: @hiandhellophoto bubbly tasting—there are so many opportunities to see and connect with our friends and name for itself! Read on page 5. neighbors. To get out and do things Our fave pop-up vegan bakery has together. big plans for 2024, including even more For those who have lost a employment support for people treasured loved one, however, with disabilities, and a brick & the holidays can be quite mortar. The dirt on that is on overwhelming. Experts say it’s page 22. not uncommon for feelings of Still with me? I need a favor.

NEWSLETTER grief to hit a high this month. We Paper and ink are expensive. So Scan to subscribe! sat down with YoloCares to talk is webspace. If you appreciate about grief support on a local our calendar, stories & emails— level; details on page 20. and you’re in a position to do so—please We’re also working to support our consider making a financial donation to friends in the Jewish community this The Dirt this season. Every dollar counts, month. A member of UC Davis’ Hillel and means so much to our tiny team.

House writes about what has helped her Head to thedirt.online for more. feel supported in her friendships and Wishing you a month of peace and about her great hopes for 2024 on page 8. joyful connection, With all the gorgeous sunsets we have in Davis, it’s really no surprise but—pop HANNA NAKANO quiz: which universities came in the top five “Most Instagrammable”? Our Editor & Publisher hometown campus is really making a @thedirt.davis

@hannanakano

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UPCOMING ARTS COMPETITIONS MOST INSTA WORTHY CAMPUS INDIE BAND TAKES OFF HOPE & UNDERSTANDING ARTABOUT GUIDE THIS MONTH’S EVENTS YOLOCARES: GRIEF SUPPORT DURING THE HOLIDAYS PURPLE TREE CAFE TO OPEN BRICK & MORTAR IN 2024

RAINBOW CIT Y PARK

Rainbow City Park playing a live show at the Turtle House in Davis. Photographed by: Spencer Fields.

PURPLE TREE C AFE EXPANDS

THE DIRT•DAVIS VOL. 14 · NO. 12 · DECEMBER 2023 · THEDIRT.ONLINE The Dirt’s mission is to showcase Davis & Yolo county’s unique people, places & events, inspiring readers & promoting local arts, culture & community.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Hanna Nakano hanna@thedirt.online COPY EDITOR Jenna Matsubara EVENTS EDITOR Allie Wydick FOOD EDITOR Sandra Violet Clark

ON THE COVER

CELEBRATING HANUKKAH

DESIGNER Kyle Dyer

FOLLOW US: @THEDIRT.DAVIS #THEDIRTDAVIS ADVERTISING: The Dirt is made possible by the support of local businesses. If you would like to reach readers and support local arts & culture, please email to request a media kit.

CALENDAR LISTINGS & DETAILS: Submit your event to our website for a free listing in our calendar no later than the 23rd of the month preceding the next issue. We will fill The Dirt with as many events as appropriate & possible, space allowing.

CIRCULATION: The Dirt is distributed with local support. If you can provide a prominent distribution space, please email with subject line “Circulation.” We currently distribute 3,000 copies each month.

SOCIAL MEDIA Isabella Holmes

ACCURACY: We do our best to fact-check, but events change.

We suggest you call venues in advance of visiting. Please let us know of any errors for future printings.

WEBSITE Spadefoot Studios

DISCLAIMER: Paid advertisements do not necessarily represent The Dirt’s endorsement of the products or services offered.

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Sudwerk Brewing Co. hosts a Davis Community Holiday Market on Dec. 10, featuring more than 25 local vendors, warm drinks, games, holiday photos, music & more!

1 The Winters Tractor Parade has been upgraded this year, with a holiday market, kid & family activities, food trucks & more! Celebrate and support local businesses from 12p—9p on December 2 (parade starts at 6p!).

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2 The Woodland Holiday Parade is set for Dec. 9 this year and promises to bring major holiday magic!

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Support the Madrigals at their 55th Annual Fundraiser Dinner December 1 & 2. This holiday feast, established in 1968, is one of Davis’ longest-running and bestloved musical traditions!

EDITOR’S PICKS

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A curated selection of community events, art and music news, locally made products and more, hand-picked by The Dirt’s editorial team.

10 Celebrate the release of local author Catriona McPherson’s latest mystery, Hop Scot, at Avid Reader Dec. 5.

A holiday book drive is helping keep spirits bright for children in Davis & Sacramento who are in the hospital this season. Purchase and donate a book to the Happy Little Kidneys foundation at Avid Reader through Dec 15.

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The largest gathering of growers, distillers and experts in the California agave industry meets on UCD’s campus. Tickets to the symposium start at $350; register in advance.

6 Join a gathering of herbalists, hobby herbalists, witches & those who wish to learn for a Winter Herbal Medicine Exchange on Dec. 16; register in advance.

7 Learn to arrange your own floral centerpieces, holiday wreaths and more at Strelitzia Flower Company this month; Dec 7, 9, 14.

Open to brass players of all abilities: join the community for a free Holiday Horn Day performance at the Melon Ball Dec. 23. Practice starts at 9a, performance at noon.

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Teen Writing Contest

Y Applications Open for Pence Gallery’s Emerging Artist Award Boasts a $4,000 Prize

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he Emerging Artist Award supports the creation of new work by emerging artists in California— and the opportunity to share that work through an exhibit and an artist talk at the Pence Gallery.

The artist selected must use the award of $4,000 to further their work in a significant direction, and may work in any medium, except video or sound.

In this competition, “emerging” is defined as an artist who is early in their art career, who has limited experience exhibiting, but not an extensive solo exhibit history. The artist’s submitted work must be of high caliber, original, and completed within the past five years.

Applications must include a resume, artist statement, and 5-10 digital images of current work, via www.callforentry. org by 9p, April 4, 2024. Application fee is $30 ($25 for Pence members); winner will be announced by April 30th.

oung writers in Yolo County are getting encouragement to put pen to paper and make magic—including a cash prize.

The Magical Realism Short Story Contest is a free contest, open to all Yolo County high school students and boasts a $100 prize.

Stories must contain magic in the real world, not fantasy, and must be no longer than 2,000 words.

In addition to the cash prize, the winner’s story will be read alongside an excerpt from teenage author Zuni Chopra’s novel The House that Spoke at the Veterans Memorial Theatre in Davis this Spring.

Deadline for submission: Jan. 20, 2024 at 11p. Hosted by: Yolo County Library, Yolo County Library Foundation, and Stories on Stage Davis.

Head to tinyurl.com/yolowritingcompetition for more information.

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UCD Ranks 4th Most Instagrammable University in the Country Haile Ubamadu, for The Dirt

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myriad of things play into your choice of university: legacy, faculty, research opportunities. Now University of California Davis can add one more tic to their resume: the school has been named in the top 5 Most Instagrammable Universities in the Country.

UC Davis ranked #4th for Instagrammableness, according to VPNOverview.

To prove their data, analysts looked at how many times the hashtags of 100 universities were publicly used on Instagram, and UC Davis students showed up. #UCDavis appears on Instagram more than 371,000 times, giving prospective students an inside look at the nearly 120-year old campus.

Students say they love the lush and wide range of greenery that set up perfect photo opportunities throughout campus, with content creators, visitors and alumni alike snapping stories, posts—and even memorable graduation photos.

Julia Schultz, class of 2024, has planned her grad photos for Spafford Lake, with her “favorite campus residents”: the ducks.

Here are our 10 favorite spots for an IG worthy photo shoot: • UCD Arboretum • Spafford Lake • The Quad (the hammocks!)

• Eggheads • Dairy Cows • Mondavi Center • Manetti Center • Top of Hutchinson Field Parking Lot (at sunset!)

• The Death Star • Student Farm Bonus: Cheeto, perhaps the most instagramed cat in Davis, lives near the physics building and on the app @cheetodaily.

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K R A P Y T I C W RAINBO S OFF E K A T D N A B IE D IN L LO C A

Rainbow City Park plays a live show at the Turtle House in Davis. Photographed by: Spencer Fields.

Isabella Holmes, for The Dirt

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ometimes things just click, music melds, and something special comes together.

This was the case for Rainbow City Park, a Davis and Sacramento-based indie band that is taking off—right in our backyard.

Whether you’ve heard their alt-rock dream pop sound before at venues like Turtle House or not, the name may ring a bell. It comes from the giant Cityowned play structure at Community Park in Davis.

The band consists of five members: vocalist Dani Judith, guitarist Chris O’Keefe, bassist Dwight Struthers, drummer Ryan Williams, and guitarist Nick Nassab.

Describing themselves as a “halfway between Third Eye Blind and Taylor Swift”, Rainbow City Park has a sound akin to bands like Mazzy Star and boygenius, says Struthers.

They combine contemplative and existential lyrics with 90’s alternative rock and shoegaze influence to attain an effect that is both electric and melodic.

Rainbow City Park fully came together in January 2022, and had their first show and recordings within their first month. “The universe had a plan,” joked Williams, a sentiment that isn’t far off.

Their most successful songwriting is kind of

like the formation of the band: a compounding and cohesive whirlwind. Rainbow City Park will often start with a riff idea and the rest of the song will come together that night.

“We’ll spend hours fleshing out the structure, the parts, adding in the vocal melodies,” Judith said. “There are times where we hit it just right.”

Their most recent song, “Convince You,” released October 20th, came together this way.

“We try absolutely everything in the studio,” adding and layering in production, then peeling back off, Judith told The Dirt.

“There’s back and forth, we play off each other,”

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Image Courtesy: Rainbow City Park

“The Reverse Magic Show”

Join Rainbow City Park and the supportive community of the Davis Independent Music Initiative at bi-monthly songwriting workshops.

Zoom meetings are open to all every 1st & 3rd Wednesday 8p. Check davisimi.com/song-dr for more information.

by Kris Rosa Watching Waiting Patiently revealing Whatever we want to In the deepest depths of us Right now

Catch Rainbow City Park on 2/17 at Rock Band University to support their next single release, “Valentine’s Day 1999”. Head to rainbowcitypark.com to join the email list for more dates.

We are walking like a time bomb Onto these eggshells Life kindly laid out for us What are we doing?

To ourselves It’s a reverse magic show

and eventually, “all parts interact with each other,” a process that is highly rewarding, explained O’Keefe and Nassab.

The final product is impressive: a tight harmony of dynamic chords and rhythm, accompanied with waves of smooth, beautiful vocals.

“I love making music with these folks… It has made me a better musician and they’re inspiring to be around,” Williams said.

Davis is a city that is rich in art and music. A great way to support this community is by showing up for our local bands!

Rainbow City Park has a full schedule of shows and a prospective EP coming this winter. Check out their Spotify and Instagram (@rainbowcitypark) to hear and see more.

And that rabbit Doesn’t know Who to trust Step right up Image Courtesy: Rainbow City Park

It’s the “Reverse Magic Show”

THE DIRT is committed to furthering the reach of local artists’ work and will publish one work of poetry each month in our print issue. Works may be submitted via email to hanna@thedirt.online, subject line: poetry.

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HOPE & UNDERSTANDING FOR THE NEW YEAR A L E T T E R TO T H E COM M U N I T Y As we prepare for a new year, we pause to reflect on the past—and look toward the future with hope and understanding.

Carmel Raviv is a Sophomore at UC Davis, where she is a member of the Hillel House community. She wrote this letter to share her thoughts on Jewish identity and culture—and how we can support each other during these challenging times.

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y favorite aspect of Jewish Identity is how I identify with other Jewish people. The Jewish Culture and Peoplehood spans thousands of years due to the diaspora, extending to several different countries—but we still light Shabbat candles at the same time, say the same prayers, and feel the same pride, joy, and groundedness. We can relate to each other on our family values, rugged history, and of course, Jewish Geography.

The best way to support your Jewish friends is to reach out and ask questions.

It doesn’t even have to be a promise of unwavering support, just checking in to show that you care about your friend’s well-being goes a long way.

Your Jewish friends are not actors in a political debate, they are real people who can’t help being Jewish, and when they see people being vocal about how much they hate them for it, it’s extremely mentally challenging. Friends who have reached out with open-ended questions

like “How have recent events made you feel?”, and given me space to speak about my experience, have made me feel more valued and more safe than any Instagram infographic.

If you have Jewish friends, you don’t need to speak, you just need to listen.

And it might surprise you what they have to say.

My one wish is for people to see nuance in every situation. Simplified slogans and polarizing statements rooted in anger have manipulated our worldview, resulting in a tense, divided society. The tension on campuses and around the world is not normal.

But I still see a future where we rise up.

Where we don’t take the validity of one existence as mutually exclusive with the other. Where we recognize when we’re using inflammatory language, and know it’s okay to be proven wrong even if we believed something for a long time. Where we treat each other with kindness.

Local Hanukkah Celebrations Hillel House, Davis • Hanukkah Shabbat Dinner, Dec. 8, 6p–9p

Bet Haverim, Davis • Chanukah Glow Party, Dec. 9, 4p • Religious School Hannukah Song Session, Dec. 10, 11:30a–12p • Chanukiah Lighting with Galit CohenKedem, Rabbi of Kehillat, Dec. 10, 5p–7p

Chabad of Sacramento • Grand Menorah Lighting Celebration, Dec. 7, 5p • Family Hanukkah Pizza Party, Menorah Lighting & Games, Dec. 9, 7:30p • Basketball Menorah Lighting at the Golden One Center, Dec. 14, 7p

Chabad of Solano County • 15th Annual Menorah Lighting & Chanukah Celebration, Dec. 7th, 4:30p

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POPUP ART SHOWS & LIVE MUSIC FREE, MONTHLY, SELF GUIDED ART WALK

DECEMBER

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Explore the Downtown Davis art scene in this free, self-guided monthly art walk. Exhibits are hosted by galleries, art studios & businesses in Davis.

1. ARBORETUM ART WORKS 17 Arboretum Dr, Suites G & H | 5p–8p.

Visit the working artist collective featuring artists in two suites.

2. THE ARTERY 207 G St | 6p–9p. The Artery Annual Holiday Gift Show. The Artery Members present gifts for this enchanting season.

Shop from ceramics, jewelry, wall art, gourds, glasswork, woodwork, textiles, holiday decor, & more.

3. DAVIS CRAFT & VINTAGE FAIR E St Plaza | 5p–9p. Shop from arts, crafts, and vintage micro-businesses’ booths, plus free live music by Cowboys After Dark.

Starting at 6p, weather permitting.

4. DELTA OF VENUS 122 B St | 6:30p–8:30p. Holiday Hootenanny. The Davis Hootenanny is a disability-inclusive music event hosted

by Purple Tree Café. Join the Team Davis Singers, who will be caroling at stops around downtown, beginning and ending at Delta of Venus. Plus, hot beverages & vegan treats.

5. JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY 521 1st St | 5p–7p. Sense of Nature: New Paintings by LeeAnn Brook. Experience art and nature in a new light through the artist’s large format contemporary landscapes, and enjoy live music and free refreshments.

6. LOGOS BOOKS 513 2nd St | 5p–8p. Wax Works. View encaustic artworks by Linda Nunes, whose work is generally surreal or non-narrative, characterized by gestural marks, texture and bold color, and is primarily two-dimensional.

7. PENCE GALLERY 212 D St | 5:30p–9p. Enjoy viewing new exhibits Joseph Bellacera: The Matter of Light and Adrienne Van Summern: Quiet Moments, shopping in the Holiday Market, a wine tasting by Twisted Cedar Wines, free chai cocoa samples provided

by Tricia Beebee of loveBB, and a holiday music concert by Agnes Perroud’s violin class students from 5:30-6:30p.

8. RAZOR’S EDGE BARBER SHOP 130 G St, Suite B | 6p–9p. Landscape Photography. View landscape photography taken over the last 2 years by Sukh Banwait.

9. SECRET SPOT 117 D St | 5p–9p. The Big Show. View large scale artworks by local artists Toni Rizzo, HG, and Stephanie Peel. Also, find big plants for sale from Growing Groves and big beats from DJ, Matty A. 10. THE WARDROBE 117 D St | 5p–8p. Holiday Open House. Check out a Wardrobe favorite, a collection by Faith Jennings including one-of-a-kind reclaimed luxury cashmere sweaters, hats, and cuffs made from 100% cashmere in Portland Oregon.

11. UNIVERSAL UNITARIAN CHURCH OF DAVIS 27074 Patwin Rd | 12p–1p. (Off-Map Event) Muusic at Noon! Free concert at the UU Church of Davis. Enjoy a holiday themed concert by Brassy!, a Sacramento-based brass quintet.

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1. Toni Rizzo, Untitled. 2. Joseph Bellacera, World on Edge. 3. Kristina Kernytska, Ornament Swan.

4. Schorré Oldham, Untitled. 5. Faith Jennings’ Up-Cycled Cashmere. 6. Davis Hootenanny.

7. LeeAnn Brook, Inlet.

2ND FRIDAY ARTABOUT SPONSORED BY:

ArtAbout is supported, in part, by a grant from the City of Davis Arts & Cultural Affairs program.

Full Details & Guides: theartery.net/2nd-friday-artabout | pencegallery.org/events/artabout/

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Photo by Deidre Schlabs on Unsplash.

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THIS MONTH DECEMBER

ART 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

manity, a celebratory walking procession begins at the UC Davis Art Building & arrives at the Shrem Museum Plaza. 2:30p–3:30p. Free

Senior Watercolor Group

DAVIS SENIOR CENTER. Weekly gathering for artists of all skill levels.

Led by volunteer teachers. 9a. Free for the latest listings & more

thedirt.online BRING THE KIDS! LOOK FOR THE BALLOON BESIDE THE LISTING.

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Design & Color for an Expressive Still Life with Kristine Bybee

PENCE GALLERY. In this two-day workshop with artist Kristine Bybee, learn to paint a still life with vitality & expression using acrylics.

Complete a still life painting in only one session with three basic hues. In the second session, extend your knowledge of the color palette for more depth & color contrast.

12p—4p. $200 Members, $225 Non-Members

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Katya Grokhovsky: Between Earth & Sky

MANETTI SHREM. Exploring the relationship of memory to body, materials, & place, as well as desire for harmony, peace, joy & hu-

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Art in Action: Family Art Workshop PENCE GALLERY. Explore art & creativity at these monthly family art workshops for children aged 5-12. 1p—3p. $4-$8

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Holiday Wreath Making

GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. Join Dixon Florist to make winter wreaths with mixed evergreens, sip a glass of wine & make new friends. Register in advance. 10a—12p. $75

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Holiday Themed Paint & Sip

GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. Indulge your inner artist with this mixed media class led by local artists while sipping on a glass of our finest wine! 1p–3p. $60

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Miniature Paint Night

DAVIS CARDS & GAMES. A night full of miniature painting fun! All are welcome. 4p. $5

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Holiday Wreaths

STRELITZIA FLOWER CO. A fun-filled wreath-making extravaganza where you can create & customize your own festive decor! (12/7) 6p–8p. (12/9) 1p–3p. $100

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LeeAnn Brook: Sense of Nature Opening Reception

JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. Opening reception features live music & free refreshments. 5p–7p. Free

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2nd Friday ArtAbout Reception: Linda Nunes

LOGOS BOOKS. Linda Nunes is an award-winning, interdisciplinary artist with

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Photo by Reinhart Julian on Unsplash a Studio Art degree from California State University, Sacramento. She is a workshop leader, curator & sometimes juror who now lives in the Sacramento area. Meet Linda & view her work. 5p—8p. Free

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2nd Friday ArtAbout Reception

PENCE GALLERY. Enjoy a holiday music concert by students ages 5—18 in Agnes Perroud’s violin class from 5:30p—6:30p in the courtyard, then head inside to browse our new art exhibits by Joseph Bellacera & Adrienne Van Summern, & shop in the Holiday Market. Don’t forget the wine tasting by Twisted Cedar Wines & chai cocoa samples by loveBB. 5:30p—9p. Free

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M.F.A. Virtual Open House

ZOOM. Please join us for a virtual open house to learn more about the UC Davis Graduate Program in Design. Zoom code: 95310080109. 12p–1p. Free

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Photography Club of Davis

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Join instructor P.J. Thompson to see what Photoshop & Topaz AI can do to enhance sharpness, reduce noise, & quickly fix photos for commercial & non-journalistic purposes. 7:10p—8:45p. Free

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Figure Drawing Group

PENCE GALLERY. Drop-in, self-guided sessions with a nude model in the upstairs Learning Center. Limited to 10 participants. Register online. 6:30p–9p. $22

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Holiday Centerpieces

STRELITZIA FLOWER CO. At this festive & creative Holiday Centerpieces event, learn to craft stunning table decorations. 6p–8p. $90

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Artists in Critique Exhibition Reception THE BARN GALLERY. A collection of works by Bay Area artists joined together by accountability, motivation, & validation. 5:30p. Free

ART SHOWS: CONTINUING

his observations of the natural world into intriguing configurations of color, pattern, & texture. Reception 12/08, 6p–9p. Free

THRU DEC 31

THRU MAY 6

HEAR FIRST: A Native Story Walk YOLO WILDLIFE BYPASS AREA. An immersive audio piece centering on local Native culture & history. HEAR FIRST is available at davisrep.org—take it outside & enjoy it on a walk or bench. Free

DEC 1—DEC 31 Max Crosby Exhibit

GALLERY 1855. Presenting the mesmerizing work of artist Max Crosby for the month of December. 8a—3p. Free

DEC 6—JAN 6

Smaller Works & Affordable Art Annual Exhibition

JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. Join us for the opening reception on Dec 8th. 5p–7p.

DEC 8—DEC 30

Adrienne Van Summern: Quiet Moments

PENCE GALLERY. Van Summern’s work exhibits expert techniques of traditional fine arts. Inspired by historical realist painters, she captures portraits & figurative subjects with equal adeptness. Reception 12/08, 6p–9p. Free

DEC 8—FEB 2

Joseph Bellacera: The Matter of Light PENCE GALLERY. In large-scale mixed media works & digital prints, Bellacera turns

Malaquias Montoya & the Legacies of a Printed Resistance

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Activist artist & UC Davis Professor Emeritus Malaquias Montoya embraced political printmaking to advocate for social justice. His role as a print educator resulted in artistic collaborations & partnerships with various featured artists. Free

THRU JUNE 24

Deborah Butterfield: P.S. These are not horses

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. The artist’s first solo museum exhibition in California since 1996, P.S. These are not horses surveys Butterfield’s career from her most recent wildfire sculptures to rarely seen ceramics made while a student at UC Davis. Free

BOOKS & TALK 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Tales for Tails

STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Read to a therapy dog! For ages 5-12, in the Children’s Activity Room. Sign up for a 10-minute reading slot at the Children’s Desk on the afternoon of the program, no prior registration. 3p–4:30p.

2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30

Reading Buddies

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Come practice with a reading buddy! UCD students Lela & Vanessa are available Mon & Sat afternoons to help improve reading skills. Ages 5-12. Free

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Author Event: Catriona McPherson AVID READER. Celebrate the release of local author Catriona McPherson’s latest mystery, Hop Scot. 6p–7p. Free

5, 12, 19

Mother Goose on the Loose

STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Award-winning early literacy program for toddlers & their grown-ups. 11a–11:30a. Free

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Poetry Night Reading Series

JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. First & third Thursdays. Each reading contains two featured poets followed by an open mic. 7p. Free

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Storytime in Westwood Park

WESTWOOD PARK. Morning stories & songs every 1st & 3rd Thursday, organized by Yolo County Library. For ages 3-6. Weather Permitting. 12p.

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Stories on Stage Davis

PENCE GALLERY. First, a local actor will read an excerpt from Refraction: An

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Arctic Memoir by Bruce Rettig. Following an intermission, another local actor will read from Maya Sinha’s debut novel The City Mother. 7:30p—9p. Free

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Artist Talk with Joseph Bellacera

PENCE GALLERY. Joseph Bellacera will give an illustrated talk on his current work on display in his exhibit at the Pence. Bellacera’s merging of scientific theories on the nature of light with art making have endowed his sculpture, paintings, & prints with a visual vocabulary that weaves light, color, & form into a unified whole. 3p—4p. Free

COMMUNITY 1

UFC Newcomers First Friday Coffee

THE CANNERY. Please bring your favorite beverage. This is a great opportunity to meet new members & renew acquaintances with those you’ve already met. 10a–11:30a. Free

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Davis International Parent Community Gathering

INTERNATIONAL HOUSE. Meetings provide support for multilingual & multicultural families including English learners adjusting to life in Davis. Open to anyone interested in sharing in the mission of our group. Meets every 1st & 3rd Friday. 10:15a–11:45a.

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Winters Tractor Parade Weekend 2023

Questions & Answers Desk is open at Lowes on the first & third Saturdays of the month.

Led by Master Gardener Janet Branaman & open to the public. 10a—12p. Free

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Bring Fragrance to Your Home: Lavender Wreath Making

CAPAY VALLEY LAVENDER. Join FarmHer Sherri to make your own 14” wreath or centerpiece. Choose from sprigs of aromatic lavender, rosemary, eucalyptus, evergreen & olive to create your unique design. 1p—4p. $75

WINTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT. Holiday Tree Lighting: Friday, 12/01 2p–9p.

Holiday tree lighting at 6p. Tractor Parade: 12/02 12p–9p. The festival & parade will happen rain or shine! 2p–9p. Free

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LOWES, WEST SACRAMENTO. The UCCE Yolo County Master Gardeners

ZOOM. Join members of the local community in a support group for those preparing for loss. Go to yolocares.org/our-services/

West Sacramento Gardening Q&A Desk

Wreath Making Class

COMMUNITY MERCANTILE. Create your own fresh or dried wreath to gift or display. 10a—11:30a. Free

Anticipatory Grief Support Group

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center-for-loss-hope for details. 6p. Free.

4, 11, 18

Center for Loss & Hope Book Club

YOLO CARES & ZOOM. Reading group for “The Five Invitations” by Frank Ostaseki. Awareness of death can be a valuable companion on the road to living well, forging a rich & meaningful life, & letting go of regret. In person & on zoom. 6p—7p. Free

6, 13, 20

Community Kirtan & Meditation

DAVIS COMMUNITY CHURCH. Weekly Mantra Meditation guided group.

Mantras are ancient healing sounds that take our minds away from the stresses of modern day life, & give our minds & hearts real rest. 6p—7:30p. Free

7, 14

Davis Cognitive Security: Public Meetings

THREE MILE BREWING CO. Cognitive Se-

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Photo by __ drz __ on Unsplash

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Breakfast with Santa

ODD FELLOWS HALL. An event for the whole family! Kids get to sit on Santa’s lap, take a picture, & share their Christmas list.

Each child takes home a goodie bag. Breakfast buffet open to all attendees. 8a–12:30p. $12

16

Winter Herbal Medicine Exchange

HEARTSCAPES. Meet folks interested in making herbal medicine, exchange recipes & techniques, meditate, & possibly join a community medicine making project. Bring 12 items to share. Register online. 1p–3p. Free

17, 24, 31

Sunday Funday

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Drop-in family enrichment programs every Sunday! 2p–5p. Free

24

Christmas Eve Morning Service FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, DAVIS. 10a–11a. Free

FITNESS 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 curity is about protecting your sense-making, decision-making, & well-being. We will be at a table with an open sketchbook, discussing local Cognitive Security topics & issues.

5:30p—7p. Free

9

Golden Dragon Fortunes

SOUTH DAVIS MONTGOMERY BRANCH LIBRARY. Come for an individual brief fortune reading. Choice of Tarot, Oracle Cards or a unique Mahjong tile reading will be available. 11a–12p. Free

9

56th Annual Home for the Holiday Magic Parade

MAIN STREET, WOODLAND. With the theme “Home for the Holiday Magic,” the parade returns this year for its 56th anniversary. 4p–6p. Free

9

Sudwerk Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

SUDWERK DOCK STORE. Join for some

Free Yoga Fridays

holiday fun & participate in the Christmas tree lighting this year! 4p–8p. Free

es, snowball fights, Christmas music & more. 7p–8:30p. Free

9

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2, 9, 16, 23, 30

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. This group meets monthly to discuss & explore the conscious aging movement. No reservation required. 10:30a–12p. Free

VILLAGE HOMES. Learn ballet basics with instructors from Applegate Dance! Perfect for adults & teens new to ballet. 10a—11a. $15

Tree-mendous Mulching at Lake Solano Park

LAKE SOLANO PARK. Add mulch around young trees to protect young native trees from non-native weed growth. We may have time to plant new trees! Bring sturdy shoes, weather appropriate clothing, & water bottle.

Snacks & water provided. 9:30a–12:30p. Free

6, 12

Sudwerk Toys for Tots Drive

SUDWERK DOCK STORE. Toys for Tots is a program run by the US Marine Corps Reserve which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas. 4p—8p. Free

13

Lighthouse Christmas Party

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH YOUTH CTR. Join for some gingerbread hous-

Active Older Adult Wisdom Circle

14

Woodland Chamber Ugly Sweater Mixer

BLUE NOTE BREWERY, WOODLAND. Members & prospective members, join us for the year-end ugly sweater mixer. 4:30p–6:30p. Free

16

LEGO Block Party

STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Caregivers encouraged to join. No reservation needed. Not recommended for children under 3. 2p–4p. Free

ARROYO PARK. Rain or shine. All levels welcome. Every Fri, 10a—11a. Free

Very Beginning Ballet (Adults)

2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Gentle Barre Exercise Class

VILLAGE HOMES. A slower-paced fitness class to gently strengthen, align & mobilize your body. All levels welcome! Bare feet or non-slip socks are recommended. 11a. $15

7

Christ Centered Movement

UNIVERSITY COVENANT CHURCH. Designed to connect our body, mind, & spirit to God the Father, Jesus the Son, & the Holy Spirit, through Bible reading, prayer, & movement. 7a—8a. Free

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FOOD & DRINK 2

Women’s Christmas Potluck Brunch

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, DAVIS. Join women of all ages for a warm morning of conversation, food, & carols. Bring a brunch dish to share! Friends & neighbors welcome! Please RSVP. 10:30a—1p. Free

6, 13, 20, 27

Woodstock’s Weekly Pies & Pints

Contact Robin Dewey at robindd49@ gmail.com for questions. 7p–9p. Free

13

Second Annual Symposium for California Agave Growers & Distillers UC DAVIS. Come & network with other agave growers & distillers, learn from the experts, & grow together in this new California Agave Industry. 9a—4p. $200—$350

28

Aggie Night at Sudwerk Brewing Co.

WOODSTOCK’S. First pint is full price, but you get to keep the glass—& every pint after that is 50% off for the night. Ask the bartenders when you arrive. 8p to close.

SUDWERK BREWING CO. On the fourth Thursday of every month CAAA, APFA & SAA members get 15% off food, beer & merchandise purchases for in person dining or takeout. 5:30p–7:30p.

8

31

1118 WESTFIELD TERRACE, DAVIS. The theme will be festive! Bring bubbly, or any white or red wine of your choice, as well as an appetizer to share.

GREAT BEAR VINEYARD. The infamous New Year’s Eve Party is back this year, featuring live music with a mix of hits from Stevie Wonder to Amy Winehouse to Dua

Odd Fellows Wine Club

New Year’s Eve Party

Lipa. Mulled or still wine, great food & a glass of bubbly at midnight! 9p—12:30a. $130

GAMES 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Family D&D

DAVIS CARDS & GAMES. A beginner friendly group where parents & kids can play other families for fun D&D one-shots & mini-campaigns. One ticket covers a parent & child. 3p–6p. $20

9

The Great Puzzle Competition

DAVIS CARDS & GAMES. Battle other puzzle teams to complete a 500-piece puzzle in three hours or less. First place team wins a $50 gift card! 6p–9p. $15

10

Odd Fellows Bingo

ODD FELLOWS HALL. Support Davis

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non-profit organizations. Each month, Davis Odd Fellows Bingo! connects with a local organization that needs assistance. Open to all adults. 12p–4p. $12+

MUSIC 1

Percussion Ensemble UC Davis

ANN E. PITZER CTR. Student performance directed by Chris Froh, UCD lecturer in music. Program TBA. 4p–5p. Free

2

Hollywood Harmonies For The Holidays

RICHARD BRUNELLE PERFORMANCE HALL. Voices of California present a fun holiday concert with performances by VoCal, Brassy, The Muses, & the Sacramento Valley Chorus. Enjoyable for all ages! 2p–4p. $12.50–$35

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Muusic at Noon!

DAVIS UNITARIAN CHURCH. One-hour recital by the group “Brassy!”, featuring Fred Lange & Bob Runnels, trumpet; Tim Smith, horn; Don Willems, trombone; & Dan Boykin, tuba. 12p—1p. Free

8, 9

Holiday Party with DSHS Madrigals GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. Small bites, wine, & the beautiful sounds of the DSHS Madrigal singers. 5p—8p. $47

8, 9, 10

CARILLON: Ringing in Christmas

Photo by Julio Rionaldo on Unsplash

2

Kitka’s Wintersongs

DAVIS COMMUNITY CHURCH. Following the theme, “Sustenance,” concert includes songs that express wonder & gratitude, folk carols, expressions of faith, humorous songs, calls for peace, & hopeful hymns. 8p–10p. $25

2

Mark O’Connor’s An Appalachian Christmas

MONDAVI CENTER. Three-time Grammy-winning composer & fiddler Mark O’Connor brings an elegance & earnestness to down-home bluegrass & folk music. 7:30p. $12.50–$65

ing a shelf-stable food item. 5p—7p. $20

3

Alexander String Quartet with Robert Greenberg

MONDAVI CENTER. Look back 100 years to the tumultuous social & political era of the early 20th century—times not unlike our own—& explore enduring works of the great music it produced. Programs will include works by Debussy, Ravel, Webern, Schoenberg, Sibelius, & Nielsen. 2p. $17.50+

3

Mid-Winter Cabaret

THE GRAND PRINCE ODEUM, Winters.

Immerse yourself in a night of diverse talent where the spotlight shines on some of the finest performers our region offers, directed

by Billy Larkin. Enjoy hot cider & treats, plus support the Yolo Food Bank by bring-

Student Chamber Ensembles

PITZER CENTER. A free, Shinkoskey Noon Concert coordinated by Pete Nowlen. 12:05p—1:30p. Free

7

Thursday LIVE! Holiday Show

ODD FELLOWS HALL. Odd Fellows’ annual holiday show featuring The Green Grass Snakes. They will perform the ENTIRE Beatles 1969 British version of Rubber Soul! No host beer, wine & soft drinks available. 7p—10p. Free, donations for the band suggested

Contact me today for all of your local real estate needs!

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(530) 204-8545

ADVERTISE HERE

Support Your Local Community Calendar & Reach A Local Audience Email hanna@thedirt.online to learn more

FREE EVENTS CALENDAR P R I N T A D S S T A R T I N G A T $ 11 0 / M O N T H ©2023 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

9

Matthew Whitaker Quartet

7

Let's find you a Home for the Holidays!

Where Integrity meets real estate

DAVIS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH. A Victorian village of carolers will welcome you with bells on, singing songs of joy, heart, celebration, & belonging. Fri & Sat, 7:30p—8:30p; Sun, 4p—5p. Suggestion donation: $10—$25

@ T H E D I R T . D AV I S T H E D I R T . O N L I N E

# T H E D AV I S D I R T

MONDAVI CENTER. Enjoy pianist Matthew Whitaker’s rich talent & effusive spirit. Performance followed by a Q&A. 7:30p. $12.50—$65

10

Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center

MONDAVI CENTER. CMS performs Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos, works that unfailingly provide spiritual fulfillment for music lovers of all faiths & beliefs, inspiring strength at year’s end. $12.50—$79

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DARKNESS TO LIGHT: A Vox Christmas Concert

DAVIS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH. This concert focuses on the transition from darkness to light. We begin in darkness, singing our beloved arrangement of Silent Night, which speaks to the need for peace & light. We close by singing a multi-movement work that reminds us that there is always hope for light & peace, even in the worst times of war & strife. 5p—8p. Free

20

Davis Independent Music Initiative Song Doctor

ZOOM. Communal Songwriting workshop & critique. Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday. Have your lyrics ready to screen share! All are welcome! 8p. Free

21

20th Annual Home for the Holidays

VETERANS MEMORIAL THEATRE. A community concert featuring artists including Boot Juice, Rita Hocking Trio, Alaina Rose, Misner & Smith, & more. Tickets available at Watermelon Music & Armadillo Music. All proceeds matched by the Davis Unified School District to provide visual & performing arts education. 7p. $25

2

6, 13, 20, 27

SUDWERK RESTAURANT & PATIO. With a lineup of comics seen on Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, Late Night TV including Ralph Guerra, Myles Weber, Alfonso Portela, & our host James Frey, it will be a night full of laughs & beer! 7p—10p. $25—$30

G STREET WUNDERBAR. Every Wednesday trivia starts at 8p & open mic starts at 10p. Free

Hopped Up Comedy Show 18+

2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Parkside Bar Themed Party

PARKSIDE BAR. Every Saturday, come to Parkside for a different themed party.

Featuring Sacramento’s best DJs playing Top 40 Hits & bar anthems. 10p.

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Karaoke Night

UNIVERSITY OF BEER. Every Sat. 9p. Free

3, 10, 17

Sunday Trivia

THREE MILE BREWING. King Trivia App. All ages. 6p.

5, 12, 19, 26

7, 14, 21, 28

No Brain Drain Trivia

SUPER OWL BREWING. “No Brain Drain” Trivia, hosted by Preacher. Trivia + Comedy + Game Show. 6:30—7:30p. Free

7, 14, 21, 28

Trivia Thursday

WOODSTOCK’S. Trivia, beer, & pizza!

Trivia sign-ups @ 8:45p; game @ 9p. Free

5, 12, 19, 26

1, 8, 15, 22, 29

G STREET WUNDERBAR. Every Tuesday night. 10p. Free

TOMMY J’S. Every Friday with KJ Incubus. 10p.

6, 13, 20, 27

UNIVERSITY OF BEER. 21+. Games @ 9p.

Photo by Sonder Quest on Unsplash

SUDWERK. Local Quizmaster Dr. Andy entertains & challenges teams of up to six with 31 questions on a variety of topics you should know something about, such as history, literature, pop culture, geography, internet culture, & science. 7p—9p. Free

NIGHT LIFE

Trivia Wednesday

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The Pub Quiz with Dr. Andy

Owl Walk & Talk with City of Davis Wildlife Resource Specialist John T. McNerney

Karaoke Night

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OUTDOORS

Karaoke Night

DECEMBER 2023

Trivia & Open Mic

Trivia Tuesday

SOPHIA’S THAI BAR & KITCHEN. 21+. Games @ 9:30p.

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2

RAPTOR CENTER. Learn all about owls with a live Owl Ambassador. Dissect & analyze barn owl pellets & make owl-themed crafts (while supplies last).

Area may be muddy. 1p–3p. Free

2

Native Plant-a-thon at Pacific Flyway Pond

PACIFIC FLYWAY POND. Plant a variety of 100 native plants. Potential to birdwatch while working. Made possible

by Putah Creek Council & the Yolo Resource Conservation District. Bring sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, & a water bottle. 9:30a–12:30p. Free

2

Friends of North Davis Ponds Bird Stroll

3500 ANDERSON RD. Join our expert birders for a slow moving bird stroll. Meet at 3500 Anderson Road parking lot & bring binoculars if you have them. 10:30a. Free

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Photo by Ed Robertson on Unsplash

2

Barovetto Park Planting Event

4400 ALHAMBRA DR. Join Tree Davis in digging tree holes, planting trees, & pounding support stakes. 9a—12p. Free

3

Tours of the City of Davis Wetlands

CITY OF DAVIS WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT. First Sundays. In-person tours run rain or shine, except in the instances of flooding. Reservation required. Sept– Feb: 3p–5p. March–Aug 9a—11a. Free

6, 13, 20, 27

Nursery Volunteer Day

NATIVE PLANT NURSERY, WINTERS. Volunteer & learn about the amazing plants of Putah Creek & meet like minded people!

Every Weds. Register online. 9a—12p. Free

16

Stebbins Cold Canyon Workday

STEBBINS COLD CANYON RESERVE. Join Tuleyome to help UCNRS keep these popular trails open with regular maintenance. Bring snacks, long pants, sturdy work boots, work gloves, water, lunch, & dress for the weather. 8:30a—3:30p. Free

16

N St. Park Stewardship & Replanting

577 N STREET. Join Tree Davis as the group mulches, weeds & plants at N St. Park.

BYO work gloves & water. 9a—12p. Free

17

Tours of the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area YOLO BYPASS WILDLIFE AREA. In-person tours run rain or shine, ex-

cept in instances of flooding. Reservations required. Tours do not run in July, August, & September. 9a—12p. Free

21

Art & Nature through the Seasons PUTAH CREEK. Self-directed art activities & hikes with seasonal prompts to support observation. Gather the last 30 minutes for conversation, play & sharing of seasonal potluck food (optional) by the fire square. 4p—6p. Free

SCREEN 1

Christmas Movie Night

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, DAVIS. Come join in the fun as we watch the Muppet Christmas Carol. 8:30p. Free

1, 8, 15, 22

Senior Friday Films

SENIOR CENTER. Bring a friend & join every Friday in the Game Room to watch a free movie on a beautiful large screen TV, while enjoying light refreshments. Call or check the website for titles. 12:30p. Free

SHOPPING DEC 1—DEC 24

All Member Holiday Gift Show

THE ARTERY. Shop from local artists handmade goods including ceramics, jewelry, wall art, glass, textiles, wood & more.

Extended hours start Dec 8. 10a—9p.

THRU DEC 24

Pence Gallery Holiday Market

PENCE GALLERY. Features a wide selec-

tion of work by 60+ local artists, including cards & ornaments, hats & scarves, jewelry, ceramics, original works of art, & more. Open daily, 11:30a—5p.

1, 2, 3

Friends of the Library Book Sale

STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Beginning the first Friday of each month, Friends of the Davis Library hosts a three day sale in the Blanchard Room. On Sundays fill a bag for $10. Fri 12p–7p, Sat 10a–5p, & Sun 10a–3p.

2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 30

Davis Farmers Market

CENTRAL PARK. Visit the market each week to purchase local produce & artisan goods. Buy three items on Saturdays & get free gift wrapping by the Farmers Market.

Every Wed, 3p–6p & every Sat, 8a–1p.

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2, 3

13th Annual Craft is Art Christmas Faire

YOLO COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, WOODLAND. Peruse over 100 unique vendors, visit with Santa, enjoy adult refreshments, & sample food catered by Spring Lake 4 H. 9a—4p.

3, 17

Davis Craft & Vintage Market

CENTRAL PARK. Local, handmade & original art, crafts, quality vintage items, upcycled treasures, earth-friendly creations, good food & more! Free live music. 10a–4p.

10

Davis Community Holiday Market

SUDWERK BREWING CO. Growing Groves & Sudwerk Brewery present the most festive holiday market in the region, with 25+ local vendors, warm drinks, games, holiday photos, music, & more! 11a—5p. Free

10

8th Annual Winter Bazaar

DUKE DR. & M ST., Davis. The friendly residents of the Davis Manor neighborhood invite you to enjoy artisanal shopping & neighborly holiday cheer at the 8th Annual Davis Manor Winter Bazaar. Twenty talented neighborhood artisans will showcase a variety of hand-crafted artwork, farm goods, with specialties including jewelry, ceramics, metal sculpture, soaps, & fabulous hot Indian delicacies! 11a—2p.

16

Vintage Neighborhood Market featuring the Vault Board Shop

G STREET, DAVIS. Wide variety of vendors including handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, & food products. The Pop Up Market is the perfect opportunity to support local businesses & find unique treasures. Find updated meeting times on instagram (@neighborhood.market530).

SPORTS 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

NFL Sunday Brunch @ Sudwerk Brewing Co.

SUDWERK BREWING CO. Join us every Sunday for the ultimate NFL Sunday Brunch, where you can fuel up on delicious food & cheer for your favorite teams! 10a—3p. Free

5

UCD Women’s Basketball Home Game

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. Jessup University. 6p. Free

9

UCD Men’s Basketball Home Game UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. Milwaukee. 2p. $7—$27

10

UCD Women’s Basketball Home Game

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. St. Mary’s. 2p. Free

19

UCD Men’s Basketball Home Game UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. Montana. 6p. $7—$27

21

UCD Men’s Basketball Home Game UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. UC Merced. 6p. $7—$27

28

UCD Men’s Basketball Home Game UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. UCSB. 6p. $7—$27

30

Men’s Basketball Home Games

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. Cal Poly. 2p. $7—$27

STAGE & DANCE 1, 2

As You Like It

WRIGHT HALL. “All the world’s a stage” & much more when the UC Davis Department of Theatre & Dance presents William Shakespeare’s comedy “As You Like It.” Set in the contemporary world where everything including gender is fluid, the production is directed by alum Josy Miller. 7p—9:30p. $5—15

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1, 2, 3

YPT-Disney’s High School Musical II, JR (2023)

DMTC. This buoyant sequel follows our East High favorites as they face the realities of the adult world. A coming of age story, full of friendships & wild summer romances that redefine the meaning of success. Sat & Sun 2p. Fri 7p. $10–$18

After School Classes

January 16 - March 11 Registration Opens December 15

Chess• Art•Magic Cooking•French •Lego Spanish•

®

1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s School of Rock the Musical

WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE. Based on the hit 2003 movie starring Jack Black, School of Rock the Musical follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who earns extra cash by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious school. Advisory: School of Rock the Musical touches upon some adult themes, such as parental pressure, dissatisfaction with one’s career, & challenging societal norms. Fri & Sat. 7:30p—9:30p; Sun. 2p—4p. $9—30

8

Dances of Peru

INTERNATIONAL HOUSE. Learn traditional Peruvian dances while savoring delightful Peruvian treats & meeting new people. 6p—9p. $15

QU

N OF ZO hit poEE ints: 10 IKON 0 strenM gh: 10 The ue 0 en of Zo tremeQnd mikon ha ous we casti rs - includs spells,potra creatng ing anythingnsporting of 10ing and r a perio your pominutes. But fo al we Que be r carefullyways used come we , as the timesen - depe ak at ra the dice ndent on om ! the rond ll of

2650 Lillard Drive, Davis

530-753-5500

www.peregrineschool.org

Joseph Bellacera The Matter of Light

14, 15, 16, 17

Peter & the Wolf & The Nutcracker “Sweet”

WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE. Two beautiful ballet one-acts presented in one production! Sergei Prokoviev’s Symphonic Fairy Tale for children comes to life in this winter premiere of Peter & the Wolf. After a brief intermission, families will be treated to a short & “sweet” re-telling of the traditional Christmas Ballet, The Nutcracker. Thurs. & Fri. at 7p; Sat. at 2p & 7p; Sun. at 2p. $8—28

16

Ecstatic Dance Davis

VILLAGE HOME COMMUNITY CTR. Daytime dance party for dancers of all ages. 10a—1:30p. Free

31

NYE: Seussical (2023)

DMTC. After the show, enjoy a full buffet dinner, catered by Ludy’s of Woodland with a midnight toast! The Seussical is a contemporary re-imagining of Dr. Seuss’ classic tales. 8p. $60

Joseph Bellacera, World on Edge

During Holiday Market we are open 7 days a week from 11:30 AM-5 PM 2nd Friday ArtAbout: 6 - 9 PM www.pencegallery.org 212 D Street | (530)758-3370

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A L E T T E R TO T H E C O M M U N I T Y

D

ear Davis and Greater Yolo Community, THANK YOU! I’ve passed by this little slice of beauty on my many travels between the Sierras from the Bay. I’ve stopped at the fruit stands and marveled at the agriculture, I’ve visited friends whose furbabies received care at the renowned Vet School—and Davis, Yolo (You Only Live Once), You Rock!

In this one life of mine, I’ve been granted the honor to be a part of your community as one of the grief specialists at The Center for Loss & Hope of YoloCares.

What a treasure it has been to support some of you in your darkest hours, to hold your hands, to witness your learning how to breathe, dance, play, and make friends, again.

I’ve had the opportunity to work with community members in creating and facilitating movement courses, advance planning courses, community memorials, ofrendas, and caregiver retreats. It’s been an incredible journey getting to know you.

To our indigenous and rural Spanish-speaking communities, thank you for teaching us how to better serve and support your communities in providing end-of-life care. Please continue to teach us all the ways you wish for us to show up for your specific needs. Thank you!

To the quiet ones, who may never reach out, just know there is a place for you in our hearts as we do this work, and should you ever feel the need to connect, we welcome you.

And for those whom I have yet to meet, this is a quiet invitation for you to connect with us and participate in one of the many offerings that could be a welcoming place for you to build community, gain skills, knowledge, and support as we walk together through these days of rebuilding the connective tissues from a “me” to “we”.

I truly hope to see you soon,

Debra Chapman, YoloCares

FINDING SUPPORT DURING THE HOLIDAYS

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YOLOCARES OFFERS SERVICES & SUPPORT FOR GRIEF Hanna Nakano, The Dirt

A

ll the things we love about the holidays—the lights, the music, the food—can become painfully overwhelming for those who have suffered a great loss.

Whether the loss is recent or happened a long time ago, the American Psychiatric Association confirms it is normal for grief to heighten, and even feel overwhelming during the holiday season.

If you’ve interacted with hospice care in this area, you’ve likely crossed paths with YoloCares. The non-profit helps hundreds of families process end-of-life care and bereavement every year. What’s different about YoloCares than some other hospice services, though, is their commitment to continuing community care and healing through grief support.

With offerings both online and in the real world, YoloCares meets those in grief where they are. Their support includes a wide range of programs for adults, teens, and children at no cost to the participant— their commitment to the common good.

The Dirt sat down with Debra Chapman and Elisa Stone of YoloCares to get a better understanding of who their offerings are for and how to access them.

Here is a selection of services and support offered by YoloCares that may help you find comfort this holiday season, and beyond.  Center for Loss & Hope Offering community and client grief support and death education. Services include support groups, book clubs, events, education & more. Also includes YoloCares for Kids program, which is

actively seeking volunteers to assist with Tuesday meetings.  Center for Caregiver Support Provides Caregiver Retreats, Education, and Respite Care, including their Adult Day Program @ Galileo Place, which is open Monday through Friday from 7:30a—5:30p, and Saturday Clubs, a twice monthly weekend respite program.  Advance Care Planning YoloCares offers public and private group workshops on Advance Care Planning so you can feel confident in your healthcare and lifestyle decisions. This process is not just for older adults; anyone over the age of 18 can make these decisions.  Senior Peer Companions A way to provide connection. Volunteer-run program connects aging peers in support of life changes through loss, aging, and isolation.  Yolo Cares University An educational resource for clinicians and employees of partner facilities with opportunities for clinicians to obtain Continuing Education Units. The Quintessential Care Summit gathers students, healthcare professionals, and community members for connection, education, and understanding of barriers to accessing end-of-life care.

YoloCares is located at 1909 Galileo Court in Davis and serves Yolo, Sacramento, Solano, Sutter, & Colusa Counties. Visit yolocares.org for more information.

Happening This Month 1, 15, 29 • QUEER GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP 4 • OUTLIVING YOUR ADULT CHILD 4, 11, 18, 25 • ANTICIPATORY LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 4, 11, 15 • THE FIVE INVITATIONS BOOK CLUB 5, 19 • ADULTS SUPPORTING CHILDREN IN LOSS 5 • MEN’S GRIEF GROUP 7 • CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP 7, 14, 21, 28 • ADULT BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP 14 • GRIEF AT THE HOLIDAYS 20 • CHILD LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

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PETS OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER 2023

PURPLE TREE CAFE TO OPEN BRICK & MORTAR Broadening Inclusive Employment Opportunities Emme Dunning, for The Dirt

P

urple Tree Cafe, a pop-up bakery in Davis with a passionate mission, plans to expand to a brick & mortar location in Sacramento early next year.

Their cafe will be housed at the UC Davis MIND Institute on the UC Davis Medical Center campus, where the non-profit will be able to expand their offerings of coffee and pastries to a more broad selection of food.

Most importantly, leaders say, this expansion will allow Purple Tree Cafe to continue its mission of supporting people with disabilities in employment— while providing a permanent space for community connection and engagement.

Chances are, if you’ve spent a Saturday wandering around the Davis Farmers Market, you’ve heard of Purple Tree Cafe.

Purple Tree is more than a business, it’s a force in the community—and it operates fundamentally differently in the way it hires and supports employees.

It was established with a unique goal: to provide delicious vegan and wheatfree baked goods to the community of Davis while also supporting employment and fostering inclusion for people with disabilities.

“It’s really people first and not product,” associate director and operations manager Kelsey Fortune told The Dirt. “When you come to Purple Tree, we are going to do everything we

can to support you in your employment.”

Jordan Fong, an employee who has worked with Purple Tree Cafe for the past four years, has felt this difference firsthand. “[I love] baking with all my coworkers and supervisors,” Jordan said.

“We’re like a tight-knit family.”

In the modern day workplace, and especially in food service, this sentiment of support is not always prioritized.

Fortune emphasized that another goal of the organization is to influence these practices across the industry—ultimately creating more opportunities for employment for people with disabilities.

Purple Tree’s decision to specialize in vegan and wheat-free baked goods was intentional, consistent with their philosophy of aiding underserved communities.

The non-profit works to fulfill its goal of bringing people together not only through food, but also music and art.

Purple Tree partners with local restaurant Delta of Venus to host monthly Hootenannies in collaboration with the Downtown Davis 2nd Friday ArtAbout.

The event begins with a performance from The Team Davis Singers, a disability inclusive singing group, followed by local performers and an open mic.

Purple Tree Cafe’s new location in Sacramento will open early 2024. Purple Tree Cafe is at the Davis Farmers Market on Saturdays from 8a—1p.

Purple Tree Cafe pop-up cart at Rainbow City Park in Davis. Image Courtesy: Purple Tree Cafe.

COCO + BUSTER FRENCH BULLDOGS THE DETAILS Full Names: Madame Cosette du Monde (AKA: Coco) + Sir Buster Parfait (AKA: Buster) Breed: French Bulldogs Age: 2-years-old (siblings) Humans: Shoshana Zeldner + Mark Salinas Hobbies: Coco’s hobbies include chasing lizards and barking at shadows. Buster prefers eating popcorn and splooting. This family of four are new Davis residents—by way of Reno, Nevada— and enjoy being outdoors at either Sycamore Park in Davis or the Hive in Woodland.

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THEDIRT.ONLINE

R E C I P E : I TA L I A N A L M O N D CO O K I E S

COOKIE SWAP SEASON: AMARETTI Sandra Violet Clark (thekitchennatural.com), for The Dirt

I

t’s cookie swap and gifting season, and amaretti or Italian almond cookies are one of my all-time favorites. Three reasons why they deserve to be on your “nice” list: 1. zero chilling time, simply mix and bake. 2. naturally gluten-free (more cookies for more people!). 3. they’re crazy tasty and practically pass as healthy snacking with so much protein.

This super simple amaretti has a satisfyingly chewy middle and crisped crust and a deep almond flavor. With just a handful of ingredients that are stirred together without any fancy appliances, these are the perfect anytime cookie and my son’s favorite raw cookie dough to snatch.

Sandra Violet Clark is a Davis cooking teacher and recipe developer. Find her and her business, The Kitchen Natural, on IG @ thekitchennatural.

RECIPE 25 minutes, mostly inactive time • Makes 18 cookies ingredients: • 2 c. almond flour (packed, weight is 250 grams) • ½ c. cane sugar • ¼ tsp. sea salt • ½ tsp. almond extract • 3 egg whites

1. Preheat oven to 325.

2. Combine dry ingredients and almond extract then add egg whites one at a time, mixing in between each to slowly create paste-like dough.

3. Roll cookies into 18 balls. Place cookies on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 20 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden and exterior is slightly puffed or cracked. Let cool for 10-15 minutes to allow cookies to finish setting.

BONUS POINTS Want ‘em sweeter or more glamorous? Roll in your choice of sugar or sprinkles before baking.

Dip the bottoms of the baked cookies in melted chocolate and return to the parchment to harden.

For Citrus Sugar Amaretti Cookies: zest 1 lemon or orange and combine with 1 cup of sugar. Use fingers to rub zest into sugar until fragrant.

Measure out ½ cup of sugar for the recipe from this and use any remaining sugar to roll or dip cookies.

For Pignoli Cookies: roll cookie dough balls in pine nuts and slightly flatten on the baking sheet. These Italian-American cookies are even more savory and buttery and one of my all-time favorite cookies.