The Dirt: January 2024

JANUARY 2024

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

DAVIS FIX YOUR OWN BIKE Education-Focused Repairs

TWO-BOOK DEAL

Local Author Signs with HarperCollins

SOCIAL MEDIA

And Raising Children

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INSIDE THE ISSUE

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EDITOR’S NOTE •

In my family, the first day of the year is set aside for making pillow cases.

The idea is, you make a pillow case for someone you love and it brings them good luck all year. There's no real data to back that up, but I can tell you I have dozens of mismatched pillow cases in my linen closet, and I often feel pretty lucky.

Photo by: @hiandhellophoto As I set intentions for this new year, I'm thinking about the history of that sewing tradition. Of One of the most fun things I did in the artistry (albeit minute in the case of a Davis in last year was attend Second pillow) and the craft and the skill that goes Sunday BINGO at Odd Fellows Hall. The into making. Join us on page thrill of the dabber, the panic 7 where small business owner to scan your cards, the nacho Cambria Belleci makes a case of cheese—it was perfect. It’s also her own, for skilled hobbies— a great way to give back to the including why they're good for community: each month’s game NEWSLETTER us and ideas on where to start. raises money for a different Scan to subscribe!

I have two young daughters, community group. which means I don’t have much Flip to the back for a list of time for hobbies but I do go to a lot of the 2024 BINGO beneficiaries and tag us dance classes. But ya know what? I haven’t in YOUR version of our coloring page on been to a dance class for *me* since high Instagram! school. Dance classes for grown ups are Wishing you the happiest new year full pretty hard to come by. Until now. of community and connection, A legacy studio in Davis has opened classes to a new age group. Finally, there’s somewhere for an elder millenial like myself to try hip hop, tap or heels. We got HANNA NAKANO an sneak peak at all the offerings—The Dirt is on page 22.

Editor & Publisher

@thedirt.davis

@hannanakano

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LOCAL AUTHOR SIGNS TWOBOOK DEAL RECIPE: SIMPLE FERMENTING THE CASE FOR HOBBIES HOW TO FIX YOUR OWN BIKE ARTABOUT GUIDE JANUARY EVENTS GROWING UP IN PUBLIC GROWNUP DANCE CLASSES

GROWN-UP DANCE CL ASSSES

Wood carving by Diana Kwan, available for purchase at The Artery. Founded in 1974, The Artery celebrates fifty years in operation as an artists’ cooperative this year.

Located at 207 G Street, Davis CA 95616.

FERMENTING

THE DIRT•DAVIS VOL. 15 · NO. 1 · JANUARY 2024 · 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

THE BIKE BARN

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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Struggling to support your young reader at home? UCD students Lela & Vanessa are available on Monday & Saturday afternoons at the Stephens Branch Library to help improve reading skills for kiddos ages 5–12.

1 Turn recyclables into works of art at the Pence Gallery’s Art in Action family workshop Jan 7. Using your imagination and a variety of recyclable materials (egg cartons, corks, bottles, fabric, & more) to build your own unique sculptural creations.

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3 Here’s your sign to visit the Alicia Eggert exhibit at the Manetti Shrem Museum.

Eggert uses language, neon signage, and time as her mediums, playing with viewers' perception. It’s mega insta-worthy.

EDITOR’S PICKS

5 Sweet Peas Educational Gymnastics brings support to the new parent community this month. Lactation Consultant Lisa Paradis will host a free Parent & Future Parent Seminar Jan. 23.

Join the Knitting & Crochet Circle at the Stephens Branch Library on Tuesdays to work on a current project or start something new.

Learn to bake bread at Davis Food Co-op Teaching Kitchen. Sign up for their Whole Wheat Bread at Home class for a fun and educational evening in the kitchen on Jan. 26.

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The art & science of making a marriage work is the topic of a workshop promising to deepen the foundation of marriages and help manage conflict successfully.

At the Davis Veterans Memorial Center on Jan. 19–20.

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

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8 Star Thistle Honey doesn’t crystalize like other varieties can! Grab a jar from local producer Sola Bee Farms at the Davis Co-op.

7 Did you know the California Raptor Center is right here in Davis–and open to the public? It is, and the Center is home to 30 resident raptors, hosts tours & events, and rehabilitates more than 100 birds each year.

6 Get up close and personal with a bunch of wasps, on purpose. The Bohart Museum of Entomology hosts an open house focusing on the insect Jan. 20.

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DAVIS WRITER SIGNS 2-BOOK DEAL W Hanna Nakano, The Dirt

Guerrieri and family. Photo credit: J Katherine Images.

hen the world was at home during the pandemic, many of us indulged in new hobbies. We baked sourdough, we played Stardew Valley, we bought Pelotons.

Jessica Guerrieri—a mother of three in Davis—challenged a group of local friends to make goals and hold themselves accountable. Guerrieri’s goal was to write a book, and when she puts her mind to something, she moves mountains.

She wrote a novel and won the Maurice Prize for Fiction at UC Davis, her alma mater (major bragging rights with a $10-thousand kicker!), but the best was still yet to come.

Guerrieri has now signed a two-book deal with HarperCollins to publish her prize-winning novel Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea in 2025 and a second, The Thread, in 2026.

Both novels focus on themes wound tightly to the core of the author’s own life: navigating large family dynamics, motherhood , and alcoholism.

Sober for ten years, Guerrieri borrows heavily from her own life experiences.

Her work is part of a modern genre of

“autofiction” that blurs real experiences with imagination.

“My friends have been warned that nothing is off limits. There is always going to be some of their pieces woven into my writing because feelings are universal,” she told The Dirt. “I am an open book, I share things that are vulnerable and deeply personal and someone will say, ‘I’m so glad you said that, I feel that way, too.’

These exchanges connect us to what we are going through. It’s how I stay sober.”

Guerrieri shows up on social media the way she does in real life: unfiltered and honest about her life and her desire to help others.

Ultimately, that’s why she writes.

“I want my novels to be a safe space for women to investigate their experience with alcohol,” she explained. “I would love it if my story opened somebody’s eyes to the idea that maybe they should examine their relationship with alcohol or why they feel the need to escape from the trenches of motherhood.”

With three children, two books, and one new plot of land on the outskirts of South Davis, Guerrieri says she’s living a dream life. One she worked very hard for.

“We just sent out Christmas cards,” she said, “And I got to share my joy with the world: I just got a two-book deal, and we have an opportunity to build a little dream community with our family out in the country–—and ten years ago, my addiction had every intention of killing me.

I want anyone out there who is struggling to see recovery is possible. There is so much hope. I am living proof.”

Find Guerrieri on Instagram @witandspitup and online at jessicaguerrieri.net.

I would love it if my story opened somebody’s eyes to the idea that maybe they should examine their relationship with alcohol or why they feel the need to escape from the trenches of motherhood.

JESSICA GUERRIERI

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Youth Art Studio Programs The Dirt

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new Youth Arts Studio Program for high school students features sessions on analog and digital photography, poetry, mixed media, and mural making.

• Photography Techniques | January 16—February 15, 2024 • Poetry | February 20—March 7, 2024 • 3D Mixed Media | March 19—April 25, 2024 • Foundations of Photography | April 30—May 23, 2024 • Mural Making | May 28—June 20, 2024 Six, four-week long sessions will be held on Tuesdays & Thursdays at the Gibson House, at 512 Gibson Road in Woodland.

This program is coordinated by YoloArts and partially funded by the California Arts Council Creative Youth Development grant. Students enrolled in Cache Creek High School, Cesar Chavez Community School, Pioneer High School and Woodland High School are eligible to receive a full scholarship. Students enrolled in Yolo County high schools and surrounding counties may register for any open session.

Visit yoloarts.org/yas for application info.

P E T O F T H E M O N T H : JA N UA RY 2 02 4

MARLO THE RESCUE

W

e rescued our adorable dog, Marlo, in October 2019. She is the best dog ever: absolutely the dog against which all others, past or future, will be measured. She has long, bunnysoft white fur, with light brown freckles here and there.

She brought laughter into our home throughout the Covid pandemic, and constantly cheered us up during that tough time. Marlo is a total “people soul.” She loves everyone she meets, but hasn’t much use for other dogs.

THE DETAILS Age: 3.5 years. Breed: “Rescue” Caretakers: Gayna Lamb-Bang & Derrick Bang

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R E C I P E : F E R M E N TAT I O N

SIMPLE FERMENTATION: GINGER & HONEY Sandra Violet Clark (thekitchennatural.com), for The Dirt

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tried this magic at a friend’s house and asked for the recipe immediately. We’re all in luck: it’s the easiest ferment I’ve ever made on purpose (I’m not counting the fresh juice turned booze in the back of the fridge).

Newbies, this is your no-fail, low effort, success-is-certain recipe. All you need is purposeful neglect and two weeks on the counter and it’ll get funky, fermented, healthy, and wonderfully infused with ginger. It’s the perfect recipe to audition a fermenting hobby.

Raw honey and pesticide-free, fresh ginger make this recipe even safer and more successful. Go local and grab a jar from my favorite, Sola Bee Honey, and ginger from Food Field Farm at the Davis Farmers Market.

Stir it into tea or hot water for sore throat relief, mix with soy sauce for a most excellent dipping sauce, or my favorite so far: crowning a cozy bowl of oatmeal with a squeeze of lime and chopped apple pears.

30-Second Cooking Lesson: Honey is naturally antimicrobial, so it inhibits most all bacterial growth (making this particular fermentation on the safer side). But like anything with carbohydrates, it can ferment, turning those carbs into ethanol and carbon dioxide. By pouring the honey over the chopped ginger we keep out bad bacteria and welcome its natural yeasts to ferment.

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

2. Dump the water and fill the clean jar with the peeled, chopped ginger.

3. Pour honey over the ginger.

RECIPE

4. Lid and let that jar hang out in a shady area of the kitchen.

ingredients: • 8 ounces raw honey • ½-1 cup peeled, chopped ginger

5. Once a day for the next two weeks, open the lid and stir with a non-metal spoon or simply give the jar a gentle swirl, lid, and neglect it until the next day.

1. Fill a clear pint-sized screw top jar with boiling water or microwave tap water until simmering to sanitize your jar. Don’t skip this step, keeping things clean is essential for fermentation.

6. After two weeks, put it in the fridge to store (this will stop the fermentation) or keep it at room temperature where it will keep getting funkier and continue to develop its fermented tang.

BONUS POINTS Peeling Help: The easiest way to peel fresh ginger root is scraping it with the side of a spoon. Ginger peel is delicate and a regular vegetable peeler is hard to work around the irregular shape and wastes of the ginger.

Add: Zest in the peel of a wellscrubbed unwaxed lemon or lime.

Swap: Whole, peeled garlic cloves is another common honey ferment.

Follow the same order of assembly and process as the ginger.

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A MODERN ADVICE COLUMN

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By Cambria Belleci

The Case for Hobbies

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y grandmother loved to needlepoint. If she wanted something for her home, she didn’t run to HomeGoods, she found a way to make it. That was the way she was raised.

Her parents left Armenia during the genocide only to come to America and find themselves in the Great Depression. They would take the most basic items: bottle caps, flour sacks—anything that could be reused—and turn them into something beautiful.

For her, hobbies were a necessity. It was what she did to make the most of what she had.

I find myself having a difficult time justifying creating. There are always more to-dos and emails to send. I tend to expect an ROI on my time and when I run the numbers on a hobby or craft it just doesn’t make sense. Why spend an hour embroidering towels when I can order some in two minutes from Target?

I tell myself that someday I’ll start making, when I have more time.

When did a hobby or craft move from a necessity to a luxury? Studies show that having a hobby is correlated with longevity. Making is good for us. It is a part of what we are here to do, and in an ever-growing

Cambria & Her Grandmother

digital age, I wonder what we are missing by becoming more divorced from physical crafting and in-person experiences. What is convenience costing us?

We know we aren’t guaranteed more time, so this year as you’re crafting your resolutions consider taking up that hobby you’ve been putting off.

Cambria’s Top Picks: New Hobbies & Local Connection • Mini Paint Night at Davis Cards & Games • Watercolor painting lessons at the Pence Gallery

• Watercolor group at Davis Senior Center • Comedy class at Davis Odd Fellows • Friday Folk Jams at Wyatt Deck

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• Davis Photography Group at Stephens Branch Library • Learn Bike Repair at The Bike Garage

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FIXING YOUR OWN BIKE Education-focused repairs at The Bike Barn

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f Davis is famous for one thing, it’s bikes. From being the first in the nation to install bike lanes, to a sprawling greenbelt, to touting our very own bike museum in the center of town—biking is an essential part of Davis life.

Despite a collective love of this twowheeled machine, many riders know very little about the care and keeping of their bikes. Luckily, Davis is also home to numerous repair shops, eager to help new and seasoned riders alike feel confident in maintenance.

The UC Davis Bike Barn is one such hub, serving the University community and beyond.

The Bike Barn sells and rents bikes and essential parts, gives out free helmets and bike lights, and most importantly—provides education-focused bicycle repair.

“Bike repairs can seem very daunting,” Bike Barn mechanic Nuishi Abdullah told The Dirt, noting they began their employment knowing nothing about how one works. “Two-and-a-half years later, I could build a bike up from the frame and keep it running for years.”

Among the many resources offered by the Bike Barn is a free diagnostics service for UC Davis students, assessing the current state of their bike and providing expert advice on a personalized repair plan. Riders gain valuable skills in repair and upkeep, while building a sense of empowerment surrounding this beloved hobby.

Biking in Davis is not only a great way to get exercise and help the planet, but a window into a tight knit community of riders.

“My fellow mechanics are my best friends,” Abdullah said. “I am actually excited to go into work every day and we look forward to our annual events for months.”

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Sunday in the Back Yard

by Andy Jones Emme Dunning, for The Dirt

A blur of a boy in new clothes, superhero-themed, sent by grandparents, races round and round the backyard, shaded by fences eight feet tall.

Far above, the lichens and birds’ nests call to him.

Next to the picnic table, our boy baptizes the bulldog, his unwilling and unsturdy steed.

The praise he sings with gospel lungs rings sympathetic with the morning’s distant soccer-game cheers, and nearby yellow-billed magpies.

Our pale angel brandishing wooden spoons knocks doggedly on the garden gates, dark cedar, with crossbeams resembling ladder rungs.

Inside the Bike Barn.

UC Davis Bike Barn.

Wishing for someplace more remote, a place beyond the memorized and mangy lawn, he imagines a jubilee where dragonflies and honey are their own reward:

DAVIS BIKE RESOURCES  UC Davis Bike Barn 1 Shields Ave. TB 24  Davis Bike Collective 1221 1/2 4th St.  Davis Bike Garage 1500 Cannery Ave. Freewheeler 703 2nd St.  Ken’s Bike and Ski 650 G St.

a celebration of unremembered sunshine, sublime and jaunty in the gallops of air that gleam beyond ego, beyond experience.

Who’s to say that this boy, unworded and noisy mystic, keeper of everyone’s secrets, chronicled unlearner, does not commune hourly with an aspect of God?

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

JANUARY

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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’s 50th Anniversary Show. Highlights the breadth of The Artery’s creative offerings with the work of 38 previous and current Artery Members.

View woodwork, ceramics, paintings, photography, fiber art, gourds, & jewelry.

Enjoy music, fine wine, and good eats.

3. DAVIS CRAFT & VINTAGE FAIR E St Plaza | 5p—9p (weather permitting).

Shop from arts, crafts, and vintage microbusinesses’ booths, plus free live music.

4. JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY 521 1st St | 7p—9p. A New Look at Sculpture. Features the diverse sculptures of world-renowned artists John Buck, Shaun Burner, Deborah Butterfield, Franceska Gamez, Arthur Gonzalez, Ken Little, Manuel Neri, and Michael Stevens.

Enjoy live music & refreshments.

5. LOGOS BOOKS 513 2nd St | 5p—7:30p. Insects At The Ditch: Larry Snyder. View photography of insects found in the North Davis Channel and their interactions with other species on their host plants.

6. THE PAINT CHIP 217 F St | 6p—8:30p. Artwork by Ann Privateer and Mary Anne Kirsch. View oil and acrylic paintings by the featured artists at a reception with refreshments.

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7. PENCE GALLERY 212 D St | 6p—9p. View new exhibits featuring oil paintings in Christina Kent: Day to Night and watercolor paintings in Misuk Goltz: The World We Live In. Plus, largescale mixed media works and digital prints in continuing exhibit Joseph Bellacera: The Matter of Light. Enjoy some wine as well!

8. SECRET SPOT 117 D St | 5p—9p. You: An Open Call Group Show. Secret Spot presents a show all about you, the community. See the results of an open call for art and witness the countless styles emerging all around us.

9. SUPER OWL BREWING 1260 Lake Blvd, Suite 121 | 6p—8p.

Excerpt of Project 365: Schorré Chevalier Oldham. One last excerpt of a yearlong exploration of the color wheel, before revealing all 365 pieces in February at The Artery.

10. UNIVERSAL UNITARIAN CHURCH OF DAVIS 27074 Patwin Rd | 12p—1p. Muusic at Noon 2nd Fridays Free Concerts! at the UU Church of Davis, featuring concert pianist Marilyn Swan performing works of Bach, Schubert, & Shostakovich.

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1. Diana Kwan, woodcarving. 2. Christina Kent, Date Night In The Mission. 3. Schorré Chevalier (detail) Oldham, Untitled. 4. Judy Catambay, Untitled. 5. Mary Anne Kirsch, Untitled (detail). 6. Ken Little, Pass (detail). 7. Larry Snyder, Untitled (detail).

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/

Photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash

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THIS MONTH JANUARY ART 1, 15

Call for Papers “Wearables Collective: Weaving Innovation Into Stages of Life” for the latest listings & more

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

ONLINE. UC Davis Department of Design & the Royal College of Art, London, are calling for papers for WEARABLES COLLECTIVE, a two-day symposium focused on e-textiles, smart clothing & other forms of wearable technology applications for health & wellbeing. Paper & exhibition proposals are due Jan 1 & Jan 15. All day. Free

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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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Art in Action: Recycled Miniature Masterpieces

PENCE GALLERY. Turn recyclables into miniature works of art! Using your imagination and a variety of recyclable materials, including egg cartons, corks,

bottles, fabric, and more, build your own unique sculptural creations in this family art workshop. 1p–3p. $4–8

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Lessons in Successful Watercolor Painting with Misuk Goltz (6-sessions) PENCE GALLERY. Join artist Misuk Goltz for a 6-session class beginning Jan. 9 that will teach students who have some previous watercolor experience to broaden their skills while focusing on their unique painting styles. 10:30a–12:30p. $150-160

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Photography Club of Davis

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. The meeting will feature a photo critique of member-submitted images. Discuss why images do and don’t work & how the image could be improved. We also learn about the techniques involved. 7:10p–8:45p. Free

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2nd Friday ArtAbout at the Pence Gallery

PENCE GALLERY. Visit the Pence for the

opening reception of two new exhibits, Day to Night with oil paintings by Christina Kent, and The World We Live In with watercolor paintings by Misuk Goltz. Also, view continuing exhibit The Matter of Light by Joseph Bellacera. 6p–9p. Free

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2nd Friday ArtAbout reception: Larry Snyder

LOGOS BOOKS. View portraits of insects found in the North Davis Channel. Snyder documented insect behavior & interactions on their host plants. He is grateful to the UC Davis Bohart Museum of Entomology for the frequent assistance of its remarkable staff and associates. Snyder will be available to share about his experience. 5p–7:30p. Free

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The Artery’s 50th Anniversary Reception

THE ARTERY. Join for joyous celebration with the music of Fuzzy Dice – Heidi Bekebrede & Diana Craig, fine wine, & good eats. 6p–9p. Free

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27–28

PENCE GALLERY. Join artist Jacob Brody for an insightful 5-session class beginning Jan. 12 that will teach you how to use your digital camera and editing software to create a personal body of work. 10:30a–12:30p. $150 Members, $160 Non-Members

PENCE GALLERY. Under the guidance of artist Chris Leib in this 2-day workshop, students will learn basic quick painting techniques in oil paint, brush handling, and the ability to edit and improve their work. Participants will be guided through the daunting task of completing a painting and turning it into a loved exercise in creative practice. 10a–3p. $195–220

Digital Photography with Jacob Brody (5-sessions)

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Healing Arts One-Time Session

PENCE GALLERY. This one-time, 90-minute art workshop focuses more specifically on a theme related to depression, anxiety, or major life changes.

Participants must be 18 or older, and no art experience is necessary. 2p–3:30p. Free

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Koi Joy Watercolor Workshop with David Lobenberg

PENCE GALLERY. Learn the art of watercolor with David Lobenberg! In this 2-day workshop, explore watercolor and chalk markers by creating art centered around the elegant koi fish. 10a–2:30p. $225-$250

Quick Painting Workshop with Chris Leib

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The Artery’s 50th Anniversary Store Demonstrations

THE ARTERY. Store demonstrations Louise Bezark - Gourds & Kathleen Samson: Sea Glass Jewelry. 11:30a–3p. Free

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Winter Season Celebration

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Celebration of Ahmadi’s new exhibition & conversation between Ahmadi, Professor Emeritus Malaquias Montoya & Marcos Ramírez, moderated by Abram Jackson, director of

Photo by Rifqi Ali Ridho on Unsplash interpretation for the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. 3p–5:30p. Free

ART SHOWS: CONTINUING THRU JAN 6

Smaller Works & Affordable Art Annual Exhibition

JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. Proceeds

support educational programming, the Davis Mural Team, as well as the upcoming ceramics conference. Free

THRU JAN 6

LeeAnn Brook: Sense of Nature

JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. In her newest collection, Brook features poetic landscapes which artfully blend abstract & figurative styles. Her entirely abstract Haiku Series of acrylic paintings

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offer a stunning compliment & contrast to the landscape paintings. Free

THRU JAN 14

Undercover / Ayanah Moor

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

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. This exhibition portrays abstraction as a way to rethink our inherited modes of communication & interpretation of visual art.

Consider how these recent paintings offer a platform for meaningful questions around race, gender, sexuality & the visual. Free

THRU JUNE 1

THRU FEB 2

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Joseph Bellacera: The Matter of Light PENCE GALLERY. In large-scale mixed media works & digital prints, Bellacera turns his observations of the natural world into intriguing configurations of color, pattern, & texture. 11:30a–5p. Free

THRU MAY 6

Malaquias Montoya & the Legacies of a Printed Resistance

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Activist artist & UC Davis Professor Emeritus Malaquias

Alicia Eggert: This Present Moment, 2019–2022

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Eggert uses language & time as her mediums, playing with our experience of time, using the effects of neon signage. Free

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

JAN 2–JAN 31

January Art Exhibit

GALLERY 1855. Featuring the work of

artist Brey Harris-Hill. The gallery is located on the grounds of The Davis Cemetery at 820 Pole Line Road. 8a–3p. Free

JAN 4–JUNE 16 Pyro Futures

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Engage in collective speculation on the transformative nature of fire & the ways it can change the materiality of California’s landscapes. Through interactive displays & inquiry, visitors can explore the future of fire in the Golden State. Free

JAN 5–JAN 29

The Artery’s 50th Anniversary Show

THE ARTERY. The Artery is one of the oldest cooperative art organizations in California & they are proud to share their exciting new show including 9 previous members & 29 current members. Woodwork, ceramics, paintings, photography, fiber art, gourds, jewelry–highlighting the breadth of creativity offered by The Artery. Free

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JAN 5–FEB 25

Misuk Goltz: The World We Live In

PENCE GALLERY. The watercolor paintings of Misuk Goltz convey a world seen through both her travels and daily life that is full of emotional resonance. The World We Live In largely centers on her vignettes from these travels, alongside rural scenes from our region. In her detailed naturalism, she reveals the shared humanity of her subjects she’s sketched. Free

JAN 9–Feb 29

Christina Kent: Day to Night

PENCE GALLERY. View a solo exhibit by Christina Kent, the recipient of the Pence’s Emerging Artist Award 2023, who expands upon her observations of everyday life in the city in a new series of oil paintings that capture intimate scenes of daily life. Free

JAN 23–APR 21

STILL: Racism in America, A Retrospective in Cartoons

UCD DESIGN MUSEUM. This exhibition explores racism through cartoons, showcasing the work of pioneering father/daughter

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cartoonists the late Brumsic Brandon, Jr. & Barbara Brandon-Croft who chronicled the nation’s cultural landscape in their comic strips through the lens of racism. 12p–4p. Free

JAN 28–MAY 6

Shiva Ahmadi: Strands of Resilience

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. UCD Professor of Art Shiva Ahmadi uses painting as a form of storytelling, combining luminous colors & mystical beings with violent imagery to draw attention to global issues of migration, war & brutality against marginalized peoples while featuring the female figure. Free

BOOKS & TALK 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29

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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8, 15, 22, 29

Center for Loss and 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 and meaningful life, and letting go of regret. In person & on zoom. 6p–7p. Free

5

Author Talk: Mason Deaver

AVID READER. Author Mason Deavers celebrate the release of their new book: Okay, Cupid. 5:30p–7:30p. Free

10

Growing Up in Public: Lecture with Dr. Devorah Heitner

BRUNELLE PERFORMANCE HALL. Join Davis Parent University for an evening with Dr. Devorah Heitner, media & technology expert and acclaimed author of Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World and Screenwise. Q&A follows. 7p–9p. Free

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

10

An Evening with Charles Blow

MONDAVI CENTER. Columnist, New York Times bestselling author, & MSNBC Analyst Charles Blow fearlessly tackles today’s most pressing issues with depth, nuance, & tremendous insight. 7:30p. $12.50–$59

11

HG Shares Some WEIRD DREAMS: Comic Book Funding Event AVID READER. Local artist Harry Greer talks about his upcoming, Far Side-style comic book, Weird Dreams #2! The event

will have a fun talk about dreams/dream journaling, sneak peeks of comics from the upcoming book, a Q&A & many copies of Weird Dreams #1 for sale. 6:30p–7:30p. Free

12

Renée Fleming’s Music & Mind

MONDAVI CENTER. Renée invites leading local scientists, physicians, & practitioners to join her, offering illuminating discussions & sharing the latest findings about this growing field with communities where she performs. Purchase tickets online. 4p. Free

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19–20

The Art & Science of Making Marriage Flourish

DAVIS VETERANS MEMORIAL CENTER. Deepen the foundation of your relationship, manage conflict successfully, honor your partner’s dreams, and create an environment of shared meaning in your home. Friday 6:30p–9p, Saturday 8:30a–3p. $145

20

Author Talk: Benjy Egel

AVID READER. Celebrate local food with Benjy Egel, author of the new cookbook: Sacramento Eats. Egel & a local chef visit Avid Reader to celebrate the release of this Sacramento cuisine-inspired book. 2p–3p. Free

25

Helen Molesworth: 2024 Betty Jean & Wayne Thiebaud Endowed Lecture

Ashley Benham-Yazdani

1, 8, 15, 22, 29

PENCE GALLERY. Join Christina Kent as she talks about her career transition from economist to artist, including her focus on painting San Francisco cityscapes and figurative subjects.

3p–4:15p. Free, $10 donation suggested

YOLOCARES & ONLINE. A group for anyone facing a terminal illness for themselves or a loved one. Alternating in person and on Zoom. 6p–7p. Free

Artist Talk with Christina Kent

LOWES, West Sac. The UCCE Yolo County Master Gardeners Questions & Answers Desk is open at Lowes on the first & third Saturdays of the month. Led

by Master Gardener Janet Branaman and open to the public. 10a–12p. Free

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

Gardening Q&A Desk

7, 14, 21, 28

Sunday Funday

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

20

Social Wasps

COMMUNITY

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STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Join on Tuesdays & bring a project to work on while visiting with your neighbors. 5:30p–7p. Free

5

AVID READER. Find wonder in the sky with Benham-Yazdani’s newest children’s book: Cosmic Wonder. Celebrate this children’s book by a local author. 11a–12p. Free

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UFC Newcomers First Friday Coffee

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2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Knitting & Crochet Circle

COMMUNITY ROOM, MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Helen Molesworth is a writer and a curator based in Los Angeles. She is the host of David Zwirner’s Dialogues podcast & the writer and host of the podcast, Death of an Artist. 4:30p–6p. Free

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BOHART MUSEUM OF ENTOMOLOGY. A day to learn all about wasps. 1p–4p. Free

Anticipatory Grief Support Group

21

Board of Directors Open House

Photo by Jakub Dziubak on Unsplash

PENCE GALLERY. If you are interested in art and are interested in meeting new people, come to an Open House event to learn more.

Meet members of our Board, hear about

On view January 28–May 6, 2024 Join us for the public opening celebration!

Sunday, January 28 | 3–5:30 PM Free for All manettishrem.org

Shiva Ahmadi, Unbound, 2023. Watercolor and silkscreen print on paper, 40 x 60 in. Courtesy of the artist and Haines Gallery. © Shiva Ahmadi.

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our activities, and gain insight into how to join the Board. RSVP. 3:15p–4:30p. Free

23

Sweet Peas Davis Parent & Future Parent Seminar

2121 2ND STREET 101A, DAVIS. Sweet Early Childhood Educational Gymnastics program offers a free parent and future parent seminar with Lactation Consultant Lisa Paradis. Lisa is an internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and a registered dietitian (RD) with a background in biology, dietetics, and lactation. 11:45a–1:45p. Free

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7, 14, 21, 28

NFL Sunday Brunch

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

18

Kid’s Vegan Tortilla Soup

DAVIS FOOD CO-OP. It’s cold, & nothing helps warm us up like a good, hearty soup.

Kiddos will learn to make a vegan tortilla soup from scratch. 3:30p–4:30p. $22.50–$25

12

26

DAVIS FOOD CO-OP. Learn how to prepare a hearty seasonal salad & vinaigrette alongside Instructor Alison. 5:30p–7:30p. Free

DAVIS FOOD CO-OP. Learn how to mix, knead, shape and bake a simple loaf of soft whole wheat bread. 5p–8p. $40.50–$45

Seasonal Salads & Vinaigrettes

Whole Wheat Bread at Home

GAMES

FOOD & DRINK

14

Odd Fellows Bingo

3, 10, 17, 24, 31

ODD FELLOWS HALL. A wonderful way for the community to support the many needy non-profit organizations here in Davis.

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

Pies and Pints

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.

Photo by Teo Do Rio on Unsplash

MUSIC 2, 16

Live Jazz: Jim Frink Trio

ROOT OF HAPPINESS. Jim Frink is a drummer and educator based in Davis.

The jazz trio plays improvisational music ranging from standards, to modern jazz, to balkan folk and beyond. 7:30p–10:30p. Free

3, 17

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

5

Blue Note Brewing: Amanda Gray Live

BLUE NOTE BREWERY. Gray writes bluegrass-inspired country with hints of Americana influence with a voice that has been compared to the power

Photo by Jens Thekkeveettil on Unsplash

of the most highly acclaimed singers of our time, performing on the stages of the world’s great opera houses & concert halls. 7:30p. $27.50–$125

of Wynona Judd & the passion of Miranda Lambert. 5p–9p. Free

5, 12, 19, 26

Friday Folk Music Jam Sessions

17

WYATT DECK, UC DAVIS ARBORETUM. Folk musicians are invited to bring their acoustic instruments & play together informally during this jam session at Wyatt Deck. All skill-levels welcome. 12p–1p. Free

Slow Jazz Jam

DAVIS SENIOR CENTER. The focus will be slower ballads and bossas designed to be a supportive space to get you soloing over jazz standards. 3p–5p. Free

6

11

Stacey Pelinka, Flute

PITZER CENTER. UC Davis lecturer in music Stacey Pelinka performs a free Shinkoskey Noon Concert. 12:05p–1p. Free

Cindy Behmer, oboe, & Friends

12

New Harmony Jazz Band at 2nd Friday ArtAbout

E STREET PLAZA. Performing free sets of Big Band, Swing, & Latin jazz. Bring your dancing shoes! 6p–9p. Free

14

Renée Fleming & Gerald Martin Moore: Soprano & Piano Duet

MONDAVI CTR. Renée Fleming is one

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a full bar and great food. 8p–11p. Free

24

Experienced Jazz Jam

DAVIS SENIOR CENTER. This jam is for musicians who are proficient at their instrument and have experience playing in jazz jams, ensembles or otherwise feel confident to improvise a solo in a jazz jam session. Register in advance. 3p–5p. Free

25

18

Sacred Harp Community Sing

FRIENDS MEETINGHOUSE. Sing in the New Year with this participatory community sing. Beginners welcome. 2p–4p. Free

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Dan Lippel, Solo Guitar: “La Comète”

PITZER CENTER. UC Davis lecturer in music Cindy Behmer performs Bach’s Duet’s from the Lute Suite in E Minor on oboe. 12:05p–1p. Free

PITZER CENTER. Features work by composer Douglas Boyce, who dedicates his Partita No. 3 (“La Comète”) to UCD Associate Professor Claire Goldstein in the Department of French & Italian. 12:05p–1p. Free

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28

Be Brave Bold Robot: Father Paddy’s Woodland

FATHER PADDY’S PUBLIC HOUSE, WOODLAND. Be Brave Bold Robot will play long sets at Father Paddy’s Public House. All ages welcome. A great spot with

New Harmony Jazz Band

CENTRAL PARK. Performing at The Davis Craft & Vintage Fair. Enjoy free sets of your favorite jazz standards! 11a–1p. Free

Looking to move in the new year?

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

Where Integrity meets real estate

DAWN CODER REALTOR® CNE | DRE #01983685

(530) 204-8545

©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.

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NIGHT LIFE 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Karaoke Night

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

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Trivia & Open Mic

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

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Trivia Wednesday

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

3, 10, 17, 24, 31

The Pub Quiz with Dr. Andy

SUDWERK. Local Quizmaster Dr. Andy entertains and 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, and science.7p–9p. Free

4, 11, 18, 25

Trivia Thursday

WOODSTOCK’S. Trivia, beer, and pizza!

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

4, 11, 18, 25

No Brain Drain Trivia

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

Photo by Ian Keefe on Unsplash

5, 12, 19, 26

7, 14, 21, 28

7

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

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

OUTSIDE

CITY OF DAVIS WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT. First Sundays. Inperson tours run rain or shine, except in the instances of flooding. Reservation required.

Sept–Feb: 3p–5p. March–Aug: 9a–11a. Free

6

7

PETERSON RANCH. Plant native plants on an area of land between Dixon, Suisun City, & Rio Vista. All necessary equipment, water, & snacks provided.

All are welcome. 10a–1p. Free

LAKE SOLANO PARK. Monthly canoe tour!

Learn about all the beautiful flora & fauna of Putah Creek & Lake Solano. Remember, this event has limited spaces. 9a–11a. Free

Karaoke Night

6, 13, 20, 27

Karaoke Night

UNIVERSITY OF BEER. Every Sat. 9p. Free

6, 13, 20, 27

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–1:30a.

Sunday Trivia

Native Plant-a-Thon at Peterson Ranch

Tours of the City of Davis Wetlands

January Canoe Tour

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27

Creek Cleanup Palooza!

WINTERS PUTAH CREEK NATURE PARK. We will also be providing a light breakfast bar for all volunteers. All necessary equipment, water, & snacks will be provided.

This event is open to all! 9:30a–12:30p. Free

SHOPPING 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27, 31 Davis Farmers Market

CENTRAL PARK. Visit the market each week to purchase local produce & artisan goods.

Every Wed, 3p–6p & every Sat, 8a–1p.

5, 6, 7

Friends of the Library Book Sale

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Support the local library by shopping from this really impressive book sale. Sunday is bag day: fill a grocery bag for just $10. Members get $2 off. Fri. 12p–7p, Sat. 10a–5p, Sun. 10a–3p.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

13

Community Volunteer Day

ARBORETUM. Volunteers & staff will help with weeding, pruning & mulching. It’s a perfect way to come together with fellow outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy some fresh air & exercise while helping beautify our beloved landscapes. Ages 18+. 9:30a–12p. Free

13

Native Plant Renaissance

PUTAH CREEK FISHING ACCESS SITE ONE. Revegetate the site (which was formerly filled with non-native Arundo donax) with native plants! All are welcome. Site located about 4 miles west of Lake Solano Park,

& 1 mile east of Canyon Creek Resort off of Highway 128. 9:30a–12:30p. Free

18

Native Plant-a-thon & Lunch at Audubon Bobcat Ranch

AUDUBON BOBCAT RANCH. Plant a variety of native plants! All are welcome. 9:30a–12:30p. Free

20

Stewardship Team Training

PUTAH CREEK COUNCIL. Are you passionate about enhancing local nature spaces and eager to gain hands-on field

experience & leadership? This event is an excellent opportunity to contribute actively while acquiring valuable skills.

No prior experience is necessary. Ages 18 and up. 9:30a–12:30p. Free

21

Tours of the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area YOLO BYPASS WILDLIFE AREA. Inperson tours run rain or shine, except in instances of flooding. Reservations required. Tours do not run in July, August, & September. 9a–12p. Free

28

Davis Craft & Vintage Fair

CENTRAL PARK. Shop from a collection of local artists, makers and collectors. Enjoy free jazz music by New Harmony Jazz. 10a–4p.

SPORTS 4

Women’s Aggie Basketball Home Game

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. UC Riverside. 6p. Free

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 @ 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

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12 months Photo by Kylie Osullivan on Unsplash

class to gently strengthen, align & mobilize your body. All levels welcome! Bare feet or non slip socks are recommended. 11a. $15

through

6th grade

Public Registration Opens

February 12

13

Stories on Stage Davis: Donna Apidone & Daniel Tam-Claiborne

PENCE GALLERY. First, excerpts from DriveTime Meditations: Find Purpose on Your Commute by Donna Apidone will be read jointly by actors Janis Stevens and Jim Lane. Second, the short story “Grip Strength” by Daniel Tam-Claiborne will be read by Braeden Harris, who is currently in CapStage’s production of Christmas at Pemberley. 7:30p–9p. Free

6

Women’s Aggie Basketball Home Game

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. UC Irvine. 3p. Free

7

UCD Women’s Gymnastics

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. Sacramento State. 2p. Free

11

Men’s Aggie Basketball Home Game UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. CSUN 6p. $7–$27

13

Men’s Aggie Basketball Home Game UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. CSU Bakersfield. 2p. $7–$27

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28

UCD Women’s Gymnastics

19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28

STAGE & DANCE

WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE. Get ready for a night of mishaps, mischief, & madcap mania! It’s the opening night of the Cornley Drama Society’s newest production, “The Murder at Haversham Manor”, & things have quickly gone from bad to utterly disastrous. Fri & Sat 7:30p. Sun 2p. $9–$15

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. Gustavus Adolphus. 2p. Free

5–13

“the k of d: an urban legend” shows

DAVIS VETERANS MEMORIAL CENTER. Acme Theatre Company produces “the k of d: an urban legend,” a tale of revenge and grief with a side of dark comedy. Written by Laura Schellhardt and directed by Jennifer Grace, the production weaves myth and reality, following a pack of teenagers trying to make sense of a local boy’s death. This production includes explicit language and descriptions of violence and death. 7p–9p. $10–15

5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28

Seussical the Musical

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. Cal State Fullerton. 6p. Free

DMTC. A contemporary reimagining of Dr. Seuss, which weaves together many of his most famous stories & characters in unexpected ways. For all ages.

Fri & Sat 7:30p. Sun 2p. $10–$18

20

6, 13, 20, 27

UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. UCI. 2p. $7–$27

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

Women’s Aggie Basketball Home Game

Men’s Aggie Basketball Home Game

27

Men’s Aggie Basketball Home Game UNIVERSITY CREDIT UNION CENTER. Aggies vs. UCSD. 2p. $7–$27

Very Beginning Ballet (Adults)

6, 13, 20, 27

Gentle Barre Exercise Class

VILLAGE HOMES. A slower-paced fitness

Free Tours

The Play That Goes Wrong

2650 Lillard Drive, Davis

530-753-5500

www.peregrineschool.org

19, 20

Voices of the Golden Ghosts

SACRAMENTO COMMUNITY CTR. A theater collective from Siskiyou & Shasta County. Since 2019 they have been creating performance pieces on the untold stories of African Americans in the Northern California Gold Rush. They guarantee you will come away from their show with information you never knew before. 7p–9p. Free

20

Ecstatic Dance with Sudakra

VILLAGE HOMES. A free-form, nonverbal, judgment-free dance & movement community event. Open to all! Supported, in part, by a grant from the City of Davis Arts & Cultural Affairs program. 11a–1:30p. $10–$15

23, 30

Jack Gallagher’s Comedy Class

ODD FELLOWS HALL. The Odd Fellows Lodge Comedy Club Committee has worked with Jack Gallagher, a professional stand-up comedian, to offer a seven-week training class which will focus on the writing, development, and presentation of original material. 7p–9p. $400

Christina Kent: Day to Night

Joseph Bellacera The Matter of Light

Misuk Goltz

Tues - Sun | 11:30 AM - 5 PM 2nd Friday ArtAbout: 6 - 9 PM

www.pencegallery.org 212 D Street | (530)758-3370

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Caption

GROWING UP

ONLINE RAISING CHILDREN IN THE SOCIAL MEDIA AGE

January 10 @ 7 PM

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ne of the most worrisome aspects of parenthood today undoubtedly is social media. Usage, consumption, moderation. How much is too much—or maybe is zero best?

As questions swirl, Davis Parent University invites parents and caregivers to explore the topic in depth with acclaimed author and parenting & media tech expert Dr. Devorah Heitner—right here in Davis.

With relatable stories and research-backed advice, Dr. Heitner will speak about her new book, Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World at the Brunelle Theatre on Wednesday, January 10 at 7p.

In addition to discussing how parents can mentor (and not just monitor) their

Brunelle Theatre kids as they grow up on Roblox, Instagram, TikTok, Discord and other social media apps, Dr. Heitner will explain how parents can help young people be thoughtful about their digital footprint and reputation.

“Not surprisingly, we’ve heard from parents and educators throughout our community that tech and social media top their list of concerns for their kids and students,” DPU Chair Abby Koenig told The Dirt. “Devorah Heitner has devoted her career to studying media and technology, and her latest book, Growing Up in Public, shows parents and teachers how to help tweens and teens navigate boundaries, identity, privacy, and reputation in their digital world.”

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Photo by Bruno Horwath on Unsplash

WHO SAYS

BALLET IS ONLY FOR SIX-YEAR-OLDS? LOCAL DANCE STUDIO CATERS TO NEW AGE GROUP

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Ashley Arax, for The Dirt

W

hile some of us may have done a little dancing to ring in 2024, one Davis-based dance company is opening the door to a new age bracket of classes—encouraging those of us in the 18-and-older crowd to bring rhythm and movement into the new year.

Mirror Image Dance Company has added four new adult-only dance options to fit most grown-up schedules.

If you have never taken a dance class before—or if a decade or more has passed since you last sported tap shoes—there are a number of options for beginners, ranging from tap, ballet, hip hop, and heels (if you are unfamiliar as I was, think: choreographed routines blending elements of dance, sensuality, and self-confidence, heels optional). On the other hand, if you can shuffle hop step in your sleep, those same classes are offered for intermediate and advanced levels.

Last month, I signed up for the Beginner’s Tap and Hip Hop classes. I hadn’t been to a dance studio since well before Save the Last Dance was released, and admittedly, I was slightly anxious.

Both instructors were so upbeat and encouraging that the anxiety soon melted away.

The classes were paced well for beginners, with options for more challenging moves if people were finding their groove.

We stacked up the eight-counts and ended up with some solid routines by the end.

Most of the time I was just trying to keep up, but I had a blast. I will definitely be going back and even plan to buy a pair of tap shoes.

Beginner’s tip: socks are an option if you don’t have a pair.

Mirror Image was founded in 2009 by Marlaina Schroeder Spivey. Born to professional dancers, Marlaina became one herself and found her community in the world of competitive dance.

Image courtesy Mirror Image Dance Company

As a student at UC Davis, she realized there weren’t many options for competitive teams, so she started her own and grew her studio from there. Her goal is to provide a positive and affirming experience for people of all ages, levels, and backgrounds. This includes a “Pure Joy” program she created for neurodiverse children and those with developmental differences, filling a need she saw in the community.

This year, Marlaina plans to expand her offerings to include fitness classes. New students get their first class free, and if you are a UC Davis student or staff member, Mirror Image offers three free classes.

Hip Hop

Heels

•

•

•

Tuesdays 8:30p—9:30p (Beginners) Thursdays 8:30p—9:30p (Intermediate)

•

Ballet • •

Tuesdays & Thursdays 7:15p—8:30p Saturdays 9a—10:15a

Tap •

Tuesdays 7:15p—8:15p

Wednesdays 7:30p—8:30p (Beginners) Wednesdays 8:30p—9:30p (Advanced)

Class Pass Options • • •

20 classes / $320 10 classes / $180 Drop In / $25

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Davis, the second Sunday of the month means one thing: BINGO. For as little as $12, players can sit with friends or meet new people, while helping a local organization.

The Davis Odd Fellows introduced Second Sunday Bingo 15 years ago, and BINGO co-chair Matthew Elliott said they’ve raised more than $110,000 for local organizations since.

“Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, much like other events hosted by the Davis Odd Fellows throughout the year, Second Sunday BINGO connects participants with local causes,” Elliott told The Dirt.

BINGO attendees must be at least 18-years-old.

Color Me!

Here’s a look at the schedule for 2024: January 14: Davis Parent Nursery School

May 12: Meals on Wheels, Yolo County

September 8: TBD October 13: Team Davis

February 11: Best Buddies March 10: Davis Community Meals and Housing/Paul’s Place April 14: Community and Employment Services

June 9: Rebekah Community Service Committee July 14: Foster and Kinship Care Education Program August 11: Officer Natalie Corona Odd Fellows Memorial Scholarship

November 10: Sutter Davis Hospital Auxiliary​ December 8: Unleashing the Possibilities, Inc.