

•March is such a welcome relief to those of us who trudged through the dark mornings and even darker 5pms of winter.
This month, the sun wakes before us. This month, trips to the Davis Farmers Market become more leisurely.
This month, the sweet escape of Spring Break that even adults—or, okay, at least adults with kids still in school—truly get excited about.
Women’s History Month is celebrated throughout March (flip through our events pages for the many woman created art exhibits this month).
There are a lot of reasons to get out and enjoy community with your chosen crew this month. From celebrating Mardi Gras at Great Bear Vineyard to rooftop poetry nights at the Natsoulas Gallery, our events pages are packed to the brim with opportunities to connect.
This month is a special one, set aside to celebrate the contributions of women and trans people in our society.
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International Trans Day of Visibility is Monday, March 31. Dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, this day plays an important role in starting conversations with friends and family about acceptance and love.
Wishing you a March filled with joy and friendship,
HANNA NAKANO Editor & Publisher
THE COVER The Varsity Theatre, photographed by Cristian Recinos. February 2025.
BIG BLUE BARN WATERMELON MUSIC LIVES ON 4 5 8 15 30 19 12 14
THREATENED SCHOLAR TO UCD
LOCAL CEO RESPONDS TO DEI
SPEND $20 IN DAVIS
UC DAVIS’ WINNINGEST WOMEN’S BBALL COACH
MARCH EVENT GUIDE
THE VARSITY SAYS GOODBYE TO LONG TIME EMPLOYEE
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MUSIC
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The Dirt’s mission is to showcase Davis & Yolo county’s unique people, places & events, inspiring readers & promoting local arts, culture & community.
EDITOR + PUBLISHER HANNA NAKANO hanna@thedirt.online
COPY EDITOR JENNA MATSUBARA
EVENTS EDITORS HANNA NAKANO RYAN MCELHINNEY
FOOD EDITOR SANDRA VIOLET CLARK
LIFESTYLE EDITOR ASHLEY ARAX
DESIGNER KYLE DYER
ADVERTISING JOSH ANWAY
WEBSITE SPADEFOOT STUDIOS
SOCIAL MEDIA ISABELLA HOLMES
Unprecedented times call for unprecedented support. Here Together is a safe space hosted weekly at Davis Community Church’s Fireside room that encourages active listening, meaningful dialogue & reflection. Members say it’s a circle for sharing feelings, thoughts, and challenges without judgment.
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Help your teen develop financial literacy with the help of Valley Strong Credit Union. The Dixon Library hosts a session March 26 to help your tween & teen learn about banking, budgeting, savings, and credit scores. Register online; free to attend.
Dr. Arline T. Geronimus, renowned public health researcher, professor, & author of Weathering: The Extraordinary Stress of Ordinary Life in an Unjust Society speaks at the Vanderhoef Studio Theatre February 4. Her book was called “monumental” by Ibram X. Kendi, author of How to be an Antiracist.
Digging into the history of the American church’s complicity in racism is the topic of a threeweek discussion group this month at Davis Community Church. Reverend Stephanie Milton will lead the book study and discussion based on Jemar Tisby’s book The Color of Compromise. These discussion groups are free.
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The City of Davis hosts its first parentchild dance March 15 at the Veterans Memorial Center. “Glow up!” is open to children ages 4-13, and participants are encouraged to wear neon and bright colors for a night of music, lights & fun.
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Dine high on flavor and lower on the food chain with COOL Cuisine for their series of Planet-Friendly Feasts in Davis. The group heads to Davis Noodle City March 6 to sample a large vegetarian/ vegan menu that insiders say also serves large portions. RSVP online.
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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On guard! For kids interested in fencing True Focus Sports Academy is now offering beginner classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays—and the first lesson is free! On Thursdays they offer family fencing where parents and kids can fence together.
ADVERTISING: The Dirt is made possible by the support of local businesses. To reach an engaged audience of readers and support local arts & culture, email josh@ tinyminotaur.co 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 fill The Dirt with as many events as 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 distribute 3,000 copies monthly.
The Moo-vin’ Moo-seum is setting up shop at Secret Spot March 1 and giving the community a chance to create some semupermanent art hangers that will be installed on Unitrans Busses for the public to enjoy.
The Art of Brevity is centerstage at The Avid Reader March 13. With increased compression, every word, every sentence matters more. Grant Faulkner—author of The Art of Brevity, executive director of National Novel Writing Month, and the cofounder of 100 Word Story—visits to speak on his new book and why compact storytelling truly matters.
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The word performance can’t fully describe the experience that is Yamato.
This Japanese Taiko drumming group looms (and booms) large, with more than 40 Taiko drums on stage at Jackson Hall.
ACCURACY: We do our best to fact-check, but events change. We suggest you call venues in advance of visiting.
DISCLAIMER: Paid advertisements do not necessarily represent The Dirt’s endorsement of the products or services offered.
by Andrea Gardner, UC Davis School of Law
The rise of the Taliban’s influence didn’t just displace the hopes and dreams of Afghanistan’s citizens but also jeopardized the knowledge and advancements of the academic community. Dr. Homayoon Ganji, a researcher from Afghanistan, was forced to leave or risk becoming a political target of the Taliban.
Despite immense challenges, Dr. Ganji, a renowned expert in water resource engineering, has traveled the globe and advanced agricultural innovation while carrying the weight of a homeland he left in 2012 and has not returned to since.
In 2010, Dr. Ganji became Dean of the Badghis Agriculture Faculty at Herat University, charged with expanding the university’s reach to a new region between Herat and Badghis, welcoming nearly 50 students in its first year. By 2012, with support from the United States, Spain, and the Afghan government, he opened
the university’s doors to women – a rare and transformative milestone – enrolling 15 students in the inaugural year. At the same time, the Taliban was steadily growing in the area, and their resistance toward progressive education—particularly for women—was palpable.
Upon returning from a professional trip to the United States that same year, Dr. Ganji faced increasing pressures from the Taliban. “The situation was very bad. Every day, I was receiving messages, not only from the Governor but also from a local security intelligence agency, that I should not [leave the campus],” he recalls.
The risks escalated so dramatically that the United Nations chartered flights for Dr. Ganji to travel the mere 60 kilometers between his home and the university.
Faced with mounting threats while recognizing the need to further his expertise and ensure his family’s safety, Dr. Ganji accepted funding from the Japa-
nese International Agency of Research to pursue a master’s degree and PhD in Water Resource Engineering from Mie University. After his studies concluded and with the political crisis increasing in Afghanistan, Dr. Ganji and his wife relocated to Italy where Dr. Ganji joined the University of Milan and Pisa’s faculty.
The fall of Kabul in August 2021 marked a turning point. Several years had passed since Dr. Ganji had seen his home country, and the Taliban’s resurgence extinguished any hope of return. Amid this uncertainty, a former colleague connected him with an opportunity in the United States.
Dr. Ganji identified UC Davis as the ideal institution to continue his research based on its globally recognized agriculture programs. He reached out to Associate Professor Majdi Abou Najm, a leading researcher in agrivoltaics, expressing a desire to contribute. Professor
Abou Najm, in turn, collaborated with the Threatened Scholars Committee to bring Dr. Ganji to UC Davis. The UC Davis Threatened Scholars Committee includes Beth Greenwood, School of Law Associate Dean and Director of the International Programs; Joanna Regulska, Global Affairs Vice Provost and Dean; Michael Lazzara, Global Affairs Associate Vice Provost; and Kim Haky, Global Affairs Senior Immigration Advisor. Through fundraising and cross-departmental collaboration, the committee creates opportunities for scholars like Dr. Ganji to continue their work in safety. Thanks to the Threatened Scholars Committee, Dr. Ganji has been able to assist Professor Abou Najm and the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences with their research in agrivoltaics. Agrivoltaics is the practice of optimizing land use by growing crops beneath solar panels, offering solutions for food secu-
rity, renewable energy challenges and water conservation. Dr. Ganji’s background focused on evapotranspiration—the process by which water transfers from the land and plants into the atmosphere. His background will help Professor Abou Najm’s team understand how conserving water will allow agriculture to flourish in low-light conditions. “It’s very new,” Dr. Ganji explains. “We have a unique opportunity to master this field and become a leading department.”
This research is vital for California’s Central Valley, where semi-arid conditions demand innovative solutions to balance food production, water management, and renewable energy.
Dr. Ganji’s story shines a light on why it’s so important to support international scholars who are forced out of their countries due to threats of harassment, jail, violence, and death. The Threatened Scholars Committee and the work of the cross-departmental collaboration between Global Affairs and UC Davis schools and departments provides a sanctuary for international scholars as they integrate into U.S. academia and contribute their skills and knowledge to UC Davis.
Donate to the Global Community Emergency Fund
To support threatened scholars and other members of the UC Davis community who have an urgent and immediate financial need related to natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and other circumstances beyond their control, the Threatened Scholars Committee created the Global Community Emergency Fund. Funds support immediate and essential needs such as housing assistance, transportation, utilities, and other basic living expenses and/or educational expenses.
by Craig Dresang, CEO, YoloCares
Sheis unassuming. She is a powerhouse. Her broad blissful smile can be disarming, but make no mistake—Jackie Clark RN, MBA is a force of nature who knows how to get things done and lift people up in the process.
The woman California appointed as its first CEO for Correctional Healthcare Services, and now serves as the Board Chair for YoloCares, has some insight about the emerging challenges facing both healthcare and the country.
In her career, Clark oversaw the care of 5,000 incarcerated patients each year, including one of the only hospice facilities in the country for incarcerated individuals. Clark expanded hospice care, developed a program for patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and expanded peer support training programs to include preparing volunteers to aid hospice patients.
Clark has worked across four decades to increase access to high-quality care for Americans regardless of their station in life. When she first assumed her top leadership role, Los Angeles County was embroiled in a lawsuit for not providing adequate care for the homeless and prison populations.
“At the time, the State only hired physicians who had significant violations against their license,” Clark said. “These doctors were not allowed to practice medicine on anyone except prisoners. We cleaned that up right away.”
Over time, Clark completely transformed the quality and delivery of healthcare in all of California’s 34 correctional facilities.
“If you are lucky enough to be wealthy or to have the right job with insurance then you have access to healthcare,” Clark said. “And now, it seems that our country is going backwards instead of moving forward. I’m not convinced that the new administration understands or really cares about the delivery of high-quality healthcare for every American. The national agenda is not aligned with compassion and
care for the less fortunate.”
She continues, “The country has become numb to things that used to be unacceptable. You can no longer be comfortable being different. People thought the Holocaust couldn’t happen, but it did.” In every corner of American industry, and especially in healthcare, Clark says, “We should want the best and the brightest which does not necessarily mean the whitest.”
When describing her experience as a black female healthcare executive, Clark has always felt that she had to be better than her white counterparts.
“I never wanted to give someone a reason to say that I got a certain position because I am black or am a woman,” she said. “I put a lot of pressure on myself to be the best. In the end, it paid off because that allowed me to be promoted into other positions.”
The federal government’s move away from Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Affirmative Action, is deeply troubling to Clark. In 2024, only 9.2 percent of Fortune 1000 CEOs were women. Women and people of color are still underrepresented in roles that lead to CEO positions.
Serving two separate terms on the YoloCares Board since 2014, Clark says her service is a way to use her background to serve the community. Her advice to other young women of color: “Your journey is going to be hard, but it will be worth the end goal. No matter what hurdles or pitfalls you encounter, just brush yourself off, stand up, and keep going.”
Her counsel for a nearly 50-year-old YoloCares is the same: “We must keep doing what we are doing. We hire the best and brightest, regardless of color, race, gender, sexual orientation or anything else. Without a commitment to DEI, the best and the brightest may not always get a seat at the table because they are not white. YoloCares wants to ensure that they always do. We cannot lower our standards. This is what makes us an employer of choice and it is what makes our care world class.”
by Norafiqin Hairoman, for The Dirt
Davis has always been a City that cares— about people, the planet, and now, the ocean. Nestled in the heart of downtown, Cloud Forest Cafe has just made history by becoming not only the City’s first Ocean Friendly Restaurant but also the first in the entire Greater Sacramento region to earn this certification.
What does that mean for your daily coffee run? Essentially, every sip of your latte and every bite of your pastry now comes with a side of eco-consciousness. Certification comes from the Surfrider Foundation and recognizes restaurants that go above and beyond to reduce plastic waste, embrace sustainable practices, and help protect our oceans—even from miles away.
While Surfrider is best known for its beach cleanups and ocean conservation efforts, its Ocean Friendly Restaurants program has grown to include more than 540 restaurants across 28 states and Puerto Rico, helping eliminate millions of plastic items from circulation each year. And now, Cloud Forest Cafe is part of that movement.
For Tzannhour Fang, the cafe’s owner, this isn’t just about earning a title—it’s about making a meaningful impact.
“I’m happy and honored to be the first one in Greater Sacramento—but more importantly, it’s about what we can do for the community,” Fang told The Dirt.
That mindset has always been at the core of Cloud Forest Cafe, which has been a beloved spot in Davis since 2008. Known for its fresh, inhouse roasted coffee, juice and espresso bar, and sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients, the cafe has long been a go-to for students, professionals, and coffee lovers looking for a cozy, welcoming space.
Cloud Forest Cafe has built a reputation for offering quality food and drink with a focus on sustainability. From ditching plastic bags and single-use utensils to offering discounts for reusable cups, the cafe is leading the charge toward a greener, cleaner community.
To earn the Ocean Friendly Restaurant badge, Cloud Forest Cafe had to check off seven major sustainability moves—and they delivered:
• Dine-in? Real plates, real cups, real utensils. No more single-use waste for sit-down customers.
• No plastic straws—period. If you really need one, they’ve got paper straws, but only if you ask.
• Styrofoam? Not here. That squeaky, non-recyclable stuff is gone for good.
• Plastic bags are history. Takeout orders come in eco-friendly alternatives.
• Single-use extras? Only if you need them. Forks, condiments, and napkins aren’t handed out automatically, reducing unnecessary waste.
• No plastic beverage bottles. They made the switch to glass, including those fancy San Pellegrino waters.
• Recycling done right. Everything that can be recycled actually gets recycled.
But they didn’t stop there. Cloud Forest Cafe
went above and beyond, checking off extra eco-friendly boxes like offering discounts for customers who bring their own reusable cups, serving up vegan and vegetarian options daily, and composting food waste like a pro.
These small but significant steps align with Surfrider’s broader mission of reducing plastic waste in the food industry. Across all certified restaurants, these efforts are preventing millions of single-use plastics from reaching landfills and, ultimately, the ocean.
Cloud Forest Cafe isn’t just embracing sustainability—it’s setting the standard. Fang hopes that this certification will inspire other local restaurants and cafes to evaluate their own environmental impact and make changes.
“I think each business and each person should assess themselves to see what they can do to improve in a way that benefits the whole community,” Fang adds.
Want to learn more about the Ocean Friendly Restaurant program? Visit the Surfrider Foundation to see how small changes at restaurants across the country are leading to a big impact.
Want to taste some new vegetable and fruit varieties this year? The Food Tree Field stand at the Davis Farmers Market is a great place to start.
“The farm specializes in more unusual varieties,” said Barnini Lee, whose stepfather started it in the 1970s. “We’re committed to being a supplier of healthy produce, and teaching people about new varieties of things.”
And it most likely will have more flavor than anything they bought at a grocery store and had to ripen on the counter.
by Wendy Weitzel, for Davis Farmers Market
Giant watermelons or squash can be intimidating to buyers, so the family sells many of its items as portioned cuts. For example, the Lunga di Napoli squash can reach about 100 pounds. It’s best to portion it out into manageable slices. They even clean out the seeds for you.
They know customers who try them are likely to return. “It’s common for customers to tell us they had the most amazing melon they ever had in their lives from our stall. And one guy this past season was 89. It’s really satisfying to hear that.”
Everything is ripe and ready to eat.
“I really like selling properly ripened honeydews and then hearing the surprised comments about how they aren’t horrible like store-bought honeydew,” he said. “It’s a challenge to get people to buy honeydew at first because the store stuff has a lot of people convinced that honeydew are generally not good.”
He should know. His stepfather Robert Hatfield used to sell to supermarkets. Now the farm just sells at farmers markets. At the Davis Farmers Market, Food Tree Field sells apples, apricots, Asian pears, Asian vegetables, beans, chard, chestnuts, cucumbers, eggplants, figs, fig jam, garlic, grapes, herbs, kumquats, melons, microgreens, onions, peaches, peppers, persimmons, plums, pomegranates, popcorn, potatoes, radishes, squash, tomatoes and watermelons.
Many of the varieties were developed
on the farm, like their Hatfield figs, Lee said. It kind of tastes like a berry, and it’s more durable than typical area figs. “It has a thicker skin, so customers can select their own figs rather than us putting them in a basket. We use them for our fig jam,” which Lee’s mom, Bernice Hatfield, makes.
“Even the smaller stuff like melons, we have six to seven kinds of cantaloupe and four to five kinds of watermelon,” Lee said.
They also have Taiwanese tomatoes, which taste pre-salted. A popular winter staple is its Xingjian Noble Squash. “It’s the sweetest, creamiest squash we have,” Lee said.
Many of the varieties are a hit with Asian customers. Their family is from Taiwan, and they enjoy speaking Mandarin Chinese with many Davis shoppers.
Most of all, “We have a policy of never selling anything we won’t eat ourselves,” Lee said. “Both of my folks are cancer survivors or patients. We don’t spray anything or use any fertilizers. So, everything is perfectly healthy.”
Find them at the Davis Farmers Market every Saturday, rain or shine. Farm location: Winters
DAVIS FARMERS MARKET
Central Park, Fourth and C streets, Davis Saturdays: 8a–1p, year-round Wednesdays: 3–6p, October through April; 4–8p May through September for Picnic in the Park
Watermelon Music was supposed to be a thing of the past.
Another casualty of the pandemic, despite an incredible $100,000 GoFundMe e ort from the community. Instead, it found a way to survive—thanks to a mix of community support, creative restructuring, and a whole lot of determination.
“Customers kept coming in and saying, ‘I don’t know what we’re going to do without you guys,’” Eric Wellington, one of the longtime employees now helping to run the shop, said.
As it turned out, shutting down wasn’t the only option. Watermelon Music found a way to reinvent itself. e key was to divide and conquer—splitting the business into three separate pieces, each tackling a di erent part of what the store used to do.
Watermelon Music still operates as a retail store, buying and selling instruments, o ering repairs, and stocking all the essentials.
e teaching sta formed the Watermelon Music Academy, which provides private instruction for instruments like piano, guitar, violin, and more. Teachers set their own rates and schedules, making it easy for students to connect with an instructor that ts their needs.
en there’s Friends of Watermelon
Music, a nonpro t dedicated to bringing the community together through events—including a space equipped for karaoke. ey’re also in the process of launching an instrument rental program to make music more accessible.
But the heartbeat of the store might just be the Melon Ball, the in-house venue that hosts concerts, recitals, and private events.
“It’s a performance area, a venue for recitals and concerts. ere are classes that are o ered through the UC Davis OSHER Lifelong Learning Institute,”
Brian Aguilar, manager of Watermelon Musicr said. “ e Melon Ball is pivotal, we feel, towards bringing people in.”
Beyond instruments and performances, Watermelon Music prides itself on service—something you won’t nd at bigbox retailers and online stores. Need new guitar strings? ey’ll restring your guitar for free. Looking for an obscure piece of sheet music? ey’ll track it down. Unsure how to x a minor instrument issue? ey’re happy to help.
One of the biggest hurdles now isn’t running the store, it’s making sure people know it still exists.
“If you Google ‘Watermelon Music,’ the rst thing you get is Watermelon Music closing and then it’s our website,” Wellington said, explaining how they’ve been trying to change that perception. “Social
media blasts, talking to schools… we’ve had a couple of employees go downtown and pass out coupons.”
As if that weren’t enough, rising tari s on instruments and increasing supplier costs present additional hurdles. Like everything else these days, instruments and accessories aren’t getting any cheaper.
“Since 2020, I don’t think I’ve ever lowered a price on anything,” Wellington says. “Suppliers keep increasing costs, and we have to adjust.”
But even with those challenges, Watermelon Music remains focused on their goal of growing the shop and being the place where musicians can nd what they need.
“We are still very able to special order things we may not keep in stock,” Aguilar assured.
So, if you thought Watermelon Music was gone, consider this your o cial notice: It’s still here, and it remains the best place in town for anyone who loves to make music. Whether you need an instrument, a lesson, a stage, or just a good music conversation, they’re ready to welcome you in.
“It’s about being part of the community, and giving them something that they really want through what they’ve expressed,” Aguilar says.
Watermelon Music is located at 1970 Lake Blvd Suite #1 in Davis and watermelonmusic.com online.
IT’S ABOUT BEING PART OF THE COMMUNITY, AND GIVING THEM SOMETHING THAT THEY REALLY WANT THROUGH WHAT THEY’VE EXPRESSED. BRIAN AGUILAR
alt-pop, and everything in between
by Isabella Holmes, for The Dirt
Rainbow City Park’s sonic range is on full display in their debut EP Fruitless. The five-track project is an impressive representation of the band’s skillful fusion of influences and the genuine synergy of their members.
The band has been working on this project for more than a year, culminating in a 20-stop tour that will take them up and down the West Coast.
Home base is the Davis-Sacramento area, and Rainbow City Park’s name pays homage to their roots—that giant city-owned play structure built by Davis neighbors in Community Park.
Rainbow City Park was formed in 2022 and consists of five members: vocalist Dani Judith, guitarist Chris O’Keefe, drummer Ryan Williams, guitarist Nick Nassab, and their newest addition, bassist Jake Kaspari.
Fruitless EP marks a shift for the band, as they lean more heavily into a 90’s alternative rock/ shoegaze sound, melding seamlessly with the
dream pop style that characterized their earlier releases. “Paramore meets DIIV,” O’Keefe explains.
The wavy, rich melodies and introspective lyrics compliment strong rhythm and riffs, yielding a project that dances on the intersection of balance and vibrancy.
“There’s just more energy and more energy and more energy,” frontwoman Dani Judith told The Dirt. “And that’s a direct result of all of us writing together.”
The band credits the diversity of their members’ music tastes with the commensurate variety of the tracks.
Davis, spending a week in residency at the Panoramic House in West Marin to track the EP.
“This was Davis’ first full production effort with the band, and he informed so many signature moments throughout the collection,” according to RCP.
Citing influences of experimental rock, progressive rock, and punk, “There isn’t anybody in the group who has a really laid back music taste,” Judith said. “So we’ve been pushing it in the last year.”
Rainbow City Park worked with producer Mike
“It came together in the studio. We had all the parts, and then we got creative with it,” O’Keefe said. “It’s cool bringing a riff to the group, and seeing it take shape into something else and start to belong to the group.”
While Rainbow City Park never stops writing together, their immediate plans involve lots of shows and enjoying the release of their first full project.
“We’re in the Fruitless Era,” Judith said. Head to rainbowcitypark.com to join their email list. Find them on Spotify and Instagram @ rainbowcitypark.
by Ashley Arax, for The Dirt
In a world filled of fast fashion, Davis-based clothing brand Thread Hippie is bucking the trend. Since launching in 2023, founders Angela & Will Deaton have had both style and sustainability in mind. With a deep respect for craftsmanship, and a commitment to production in the United States, the duo’s brand delivers vintage-inspired graphic tees and clothing that blend creativity with everyday comfort.
It all started with a desire to make T-shirts that were cool, wearable, and well-made.
Angela’s background in fashion merchandising gave her an eye for what works—and what was missing in the market. She introduced Thread Hippie at a craft fair in Los Angeles, and quickly connected with women looking for stylish, high-quality graphic tees that didn’t feel mass-produced or trendy for the sake of it. The brand’s signature tiger design remains a bestseller.
Since then, the brand has grown, landing in select boutiques like Fog City Flea in San Francisco’s Ferry Building, while maintaining its primary focus on direct-to-consumer sales online. Angela and Will handle everything— designing, sourcing, photographing, shipping, and marketing—building a truly hands-on, family-run business.
Made in LA, Inspired by the Past
Thread Hippie is committed to keeping production in the U.S.—a rarity in today’s clothing industry.
“In 1980, 70% of the clothes we wore were made in the U.S. Today, it is down to 2%,” Angela said. “It was never a thought for us to [offshore production] and see how cheaply we can make this.”
Most Thread Hippie items are crafted in Los Angeles using cotton and recycled cotton, with screen printing done by a woman-owned printer. The brand is also experimenting with upcycled vintage military jackets, adding unique details like hand-dyed wool lightning bolts for a fresh take on heritage pieces.
For now, Thread Hippie is primarily available online, with occasional in-person markets in LA and the Bay Area. Locals in Davis who shop the website can even opt for local pickup.
Looking ahead, Angela and Will are excited to expand the brand while keeping the focus on clothes that last, feel good, and remind people why quality matters.
Shop Thread Hippie online at threadhippieca.com, and stay updated on new drops and market pop-ups by following @threadhippieca on Instagram.
saves items from the landfill— and you can shop there
by Alexandra Samirsakci, for The Dirt
We’ve all heard it before: one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. e phrase feels particularly apt when wandering the aisles of the Big Blue Barn thri store, located at the Yolo County Central Land ll.
e Big Blue Barn, in its seventh year of operation, is lled to the brim with an incredible assortment of items: typewriters, power drills, suitcases, dishware (so much dishware!), DVDs, books, and even an old self-playing piano e wares aren’t limited to the barn’s interior; outside you’ll nd bikes, lawn furniture, textiles, and so much more.
All of it was bound for the land ll— and not because it was beyond salvaging.
“A lot of people come because they’re either moving or someone passed away,” explained Pam Hendrick.
A er 17-years as recycling coordinator, Hendrick now supervises the whole operation. Her job is to keep as much stu from ending up in the land ll as possible. Opening a thri store is one strategy she’s employed.
“We modeled the barn a er a couple of other places in Northern California,” Hendrick told e Dirt. “One is down in Monterey, it’s called the Last Chance Mercantile, and there’s another one in Sonoma.”
With some elbow grease, the sta converted an old equipment shed into its present-day form. So far, it has diverted an estimated 600 tons of material from being land lled.
Beyond that, Big Blue Barn saves money for those looking to use the land ll. Customers must pay by weight
to dispose of items at the land ll. If they donate those items to the thri store, however, it’s free.
“ e more they donate, the less they have to pay. ey do a big loop, get rid of the free stu rst, and then hopefully get rid of as little as they can in the land ll,” Hendrick explained.
So far, this method has saved customers more than $100-thousand in disposal costs, Hendrick said.
Beyond the thri store, the facility accepts various metals for recycling: scrap metals, rigid plastics, mattresses, cardboard, and e-waste. ey even maintain a special shed for commonplace household chemicals like paint or cleaning supplies.
“If we get paint or even cleaning products that are still in the original container, and it’s full or half full... we put good stu in that shed and people can go in and shop for free,” Hendrick shares enthusias-
tically, adding that she hasn’t had to buy cleaning products since starting her job. e success of the Big Blue Barn relies on its dedicated sta as well as a handful of volunteers. During our tour, we met Bonnie, a volunteer busy putting Christmas decorations into storage.
“I can’t tell you the appreciation that I
get,” Bonnie shared warmly, adding with a laugh, “Make sure you mention that volunteers get hugs!”
e Big Blue Barn is open every ursday from 9 am to 3 pm, as well as every third Saturday of the month for a half-o sale. It’s located at 44090 Co. Rd. 28H in Woodland.
by @mydaviscalifornia
This month, we’re highlighting a somewhat hidden gem in Davis that locals swear by—Four Seasons, aka Gas Station Chinese Food
Don’t let the location fool you.
Behind the rows of fuel pumps, tucked into the corner of a gas station also selling lottery tickets and cigarettes, the chefs at Four Seasons serve up delicious meals that prove good food doesn’t have to break the bank.
We tried two combos to see just how far $20 could go, and spoiler alert: it went far.
OPTION 1: $19.70
Kung Pao Chicken & Pot Stickers
A classic choice! e lunch special includes a generous portion of Kung Pao chicken over rice ($10.95), and we paired it with four crispy potstickers ($7.25).
e chicken is packed with avor, the spice level is just right, and the pot stickers? Always a win—especially with the dipping sauce.
OPTION 2: $20.78
Mongolian Beef & Egg Rolls
○ Slightly over budget, but no regrets. e Mongolian beef is tender, coated in a rich sauce, and pairs perfectly with rice. e crispy egg rolls add a satisfying crunch, making this a must-try combo. If you’re keeping it under $20, grabbing the lunch special is a great deal ($12.45)!
The Verdict
For a solid meal on a budget, Four Seasons delivers. eir lunch specials run 10:30a—9p (!!!), and you can easily eat for under $15 if you skip the extras. Note: small credit card fee!
Want to see our review in real time? Head to @ mydaviscalifornia on Instagram, TikTok, or Youtube for the full video review and even more $20 finds in Davis. Let us know— would you spend your $20 here?
by Bob Dunning, thewaryone.com
It’s not often that a post-game ceremony can have a home crowd more excited and enthralled than does the action in the actual game, but that was the case at the University Credit Union Center as UC Davis women’s basketball head coach Jen Gross was honored as the winningest coach in her sport in school history.
The game itself, a workmanlike 71-54 Aggie win over Cal State Fullerton, was a mere warmup for the ceremony that followed as PA announcer Bob Kerr used the final buzzer to ask the crowd to “remain in the arena for some breaking news.”
The breaking news, to no one’s surprise, was that Gross had achieved victory No. 252 in her 14 years of steering Aggie fortunes, breaking a tie with Sandy Simpson, whose 251 wins also came in 14 seasons.
The large video board at the north end of what used to be known as Rec Hall lit up with
moving testimonials from Simpson, plus Aggie men’s head basketball coach Jim Les, UCD Chancellor Gary May, Aggie Athletic Director Rocko DeLuca, Hall of Fame Stanford women’s basketball coach Tara VanDerveer, Kelly Ratliff, Therese Cardinet and several players coached by Gross or who played with Gross.
It was all topped off by a moving message from the coach’s parents, Joan and Steven Gross.
“It’s special because this place has always been so special to me,” said Gross as she received non-stop congratulations from players and fans. “I’m just carrying on the legacy set by Pam Gill and Jorja Hoehn and Sandy Simpson. It’s about growth and learning and at the end of the day discovering what Aggie Pride is all about.” Simpson, who was head coach for Gross’ senior season and is now a regular at Aggie home games, talked about the common thread that has united Aggie athletes and coaches
through the years.
“The greatest thing is to have somebody who was a player here carrying on the tradition as a head coach,” Simpson noted. “There is great connectivity and a common thread through different eras. I couldn’t be more thrilled for Jen and all she has accomplished and will continue to accomplish.
She’s done so well and she’s done it the right way. She’s a coach who truly cares about her players.”
UCD Women’s Basketball Schedule
MARCH 1, 2p @ Home v. Hawai’i (Senior Day)
MARCH 6, 6p @ Irvine v. UC Irvine
MARCH 8, 2p @ La Jolla v. UC San Diego
Added UCD star Megan Norris, who led all scorers with 21 points Saturday, “It’s such an honor to play for her. She is such a great person and a great coach.”
by Sonora Slater, for The Dirt
IN 1992, Ruby Neri was at art school in the Bay Area, spending her free time graffitiing wild horses galloping across walls on the streets of San Francisco. More than 30 years later, her life looks a little different—but her art, which has been featured in galleries throughout New York, Paris, London, and now, the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art in Davis, California—retains the same freehanded color, bold, loose lines, and personal signatures indicative of her early works.
Neri is a ceramicist based in Los Angeles known for her brightly colored female sculptures, which reflect both her own experiences of womanhood and motherhood and her thoughts about control, chaos, and the inner space.
Taking the Deep Dive is the artist’s first solo museum exhibit, poignantly hosted on the campus of UC Davis, where her late father and renowned sculptor Manuel Neri worked as a member of the art department from 1965-1990.
Taking the Deep Dive is a recognition of Neri’s career, which she described as a true journey —describing how she fell in love with the same medium her father was so known for after initially rejecting it.
“When I was at the Art Institute, I didn’t go near the sculpture depart-
ment,” Neri said. “I took one ceramics class and they immediately were talking about my dad, and I was just like, ‘Fuck this. I’m not gonna make sculpture.’ So I was just painting. But the minute I went to UCLA, I completely did an about turn. I started making sculpture immediately, and it was really kind of amazing.”
To Neri, a huge draw of the medium is its tangibility and immediacy. This allows her to take a very hands-on approach and helps her feel a connection to the materials she’s using, something she says drew her to graffiti in the first place.
Her first foray into sculpture was with plaster, which she mixed, carved and painted on. This led her to her first show in 2009, the same year her daughter was born. She started working on the show when her daughter was three-months old, bringing her along to the studio, sculpting and breastfeeding.
“I was super scared to tell [the show organizer] that I was pregnant, because women always have to worry about that kind of stuff,” Neri said. “But I started working on the show when [my daughter] was three-months old, and it was kind of nuts, but I felt really creative and full of life.”
From there, Neri experimented with closed-off figures that emulated the internal life and mind, as well as other pieces centered around the idea of repurposed vessels. But something clicked when she switched from plaster to ceramics: Her work got a lot more personal.
“As an artist, it’s really fragile to put your work out there in a gallery,” Neri said. “People talk about it, and they’re looking at you and at your work, and there’s always these comparisons. I always felt that it was much easier to make art that was about art and not really deal with myself. But I think I finally [...] wanted to make work that was about how I felt at that time.”
So how was she feeling, exactly?
“My life was just insane,” Neri said. She was juggling her career and her family, taking her daughter to school,
working at the studio, picking her up from school, returning to the studio, finally getting home around midnight, rinse, and repeat — all while maintaining a tight partnership with her husband. “It’s everyday stuff, but it just seemed particularly crazy at that time,” Neri said. “But I really wanted to make this work. It was really important.”
When you look at Neri’s work or hear her talk about it, it’s easy to see how her personal life began to shine through in the finished product. She started incorporating multiple figures into each work, many with bigger and smaller figures. This ties into the idea of whether parents control their kids’ lives or their kids control the parents, she said, but also ties her pieces to a wide range of other possible interpretations. The control a career can have over us, the everyday struggle, fertility, and the way time and experiences are transformative, to name a few.
The Manetti’s winter collection also features the museum’s first large-scale group exhibit featuring only women. Through Their Eyes is comprised of works that span more than three decades, created entirely by women artists. The common themes are palpable.
“These artists are grappling with the same issues across a time span of [many] years,”
Associate Curator & Exhibition Department Head Susie Kantor said. “Through the long and ongoing conversation around these topics, we are reminded that while progress has been made in some areas, there’s still much work to do. As I look around the exhibition and I look at Ruby’s exhibition, I’m also reminded that these fiercely original and groundbreaking artists are showing us that in so many ways, we are already there.”
Taking the Deep Dive runs through May 5; Through Their Eyes runs through June 22. The Manetti Shrem Museum is located at 254 Old Davis Road, Davis.
March has arrived! It’s one of the best months to get out and about on your bike. The weather isn’t too hot, trees and flowers are in bloom, and wildlife is easily viewable from all around Davis —rabbits, squirrels, coyotes, turkeys, and lots of other birds.
It’s also the month when the Davis Bike Club (DBC) holds their March Bicycle Madness event, one of the club’s fundraisers that helps fund local bicycle advocacy nonprofits.
(the minimum number of miles is 10), and then see if you can exceed it. Any time you cycle, log your miles and see how far you can go. Cyclists keep track of their mileage with the 2025 March Bicycle Madness Mileage Tracker.
Your tracked mileage is based on the honor system.
by Pamela Thompson, The Bike Campaign, for The Dirt
If you’re interested in increasing your cycling, or physical activity in general, this is a great way to do it. There is an online application and fee ($25 for adults, $11 for children), and all types of bicycles can be used, including electric, stationary bikes, spin classes, and regular bicycles.
Start by choosing your mileage goal
The fee you spend joining in the event benefits students. In 2024 the DBC gave $320, which was then matched to $640 through Big Day of Giving, to local nonprofit The Bike Campaign (TBC) to help fund their Bike Skills Training Program in local elementary schools.
All riders are required to be DBC members to ensure that participants are covered by the club’s insurance policy. For more information go to: davisbikeclub.org/march-bicyclemadness
Speaking of bike skills training,
TBC is looking for volunteers to help us teach cycling skills to 2nd graders in Yolo County schools.
TBC’s Bicycle Skills Training Program brings their bike fleet to schools and teaches students how to wear a helmet correctly, properly brake, how to use hand signals, traffic awareness, and how to be a courteous cyclist.
If you’re looking for a fun and rewarding way to give back to your community, consider joining us and give local school kids what is regarded as “the most fun you can have at school.”
In other news, TBC and the Bike Garage will be starting basic bicycle maintenance classes this spring at their new location at 606 Peña Drive #300, Davis. The classes will cover how to change a tire, checking brakes, oiling the chain, and what those mysterious numbers on the side of your tires mean. Classes start in April, and more information will be available on our website soon.
The Bike Campaign, along with its counterpart, The Bike Garage, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2011 to help educate people about bicycling and encourage more people to ride their bikes. We work closely with city governments, county health departments, school districts, and community service groups. For more information visit thebikecampaign.org, or find us on Instagram and Facebook.
1
Secret Spot x Moo-vin’ Mooseum: Art Hanger Creation
SECRET SPOT. All are welcome to join Secret Spot and the ASUCD Moo-vin’ Moo-seum for a day of creating art hangers that will then be installed on Unitrans buses. 11a–6p. Free
1
Cultural Currents Reception with Artist Mark Romero
2700 FRONT ST, SACRAMENTO. Cultural Currents presents a collection of pencil illustrations and screen prints inspired by the intricate artistry and profound symbolism of Mesoamerican and Pre-Hispanic cultures. The pieces highlight the shared traditions, mythologies, and aesthetics that connected civilizations across Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. 6p–9p. Free
1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30
Art Spark
MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Drop in to experiment with new materials, make art with others, and express yourself. Taking inspiration from Ruby Neri’s colorfully spray-glazed sculptures of adventurous women, dive into creating your own three-dimensional work and experiment with (water-based ink) spray techniques. 1p–4p. Free
3, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 24, 25, 27
Davis Makerspace & Clothing Repair Cafe
MARY L. STEPHENS LIBRARY. Davis Makerspace is a community workspace for makers and builders, designers and inventors. A small assortment of tools will be
available for use, and staff or volunteers will be on hand to provide some assistance. Supervised children are welcome. Mon. & Tue. 6p–8p; Thur. 9:30a–11:30a. Free
4, 11, 18, 25
Drawing Club
DUNLOE BREWING. Every Tuesday, local creative people of all levels are invited to participate in the Drawing Club. Grab a cold drink and surround yourself with other people who want to draw. You can bring your own materials, or work from the variety of materials that we provide from the free art supply pantry. 5p–10p. Free
4, 11, 18, 25
Knitting & Crochet Circle
MARY L. STEPHENS LIBRARY. Join on Tuesdays & bring a project to work on while visiting with your neighbors. 5:30p–7p. Free
4, 11, 18, 25
Free Senior Open Studio
THE BARN STUDIO. Sessions designed to foster creativity and encourage experimentation in an atmosphere of cultural exchange, conversation, encouragement, and freedom of expression. This session does not have formal instruction. Bring your own materials and supplies. 1p–3p. Free
4, 11, 18, 25
Free Youth Art Studio: AfterSchool Open Studio
THE BARN STUDIO. Engage your child’s creativity in a supportive space where young artists explore 2D art techniques like charcoal, pastels, and paints. Sessions offer guided prompts and the freedom to pursue independent projects. For ages: Elementary + Middle
(2nd–6th Grade). Tuesdays, 3:30p–5:30p. Free
5, 12, 19, 26
Free Youth Art Studio: Mini Open Studio
THE BARN STUDIO. Bring your under-5 little ones to explore their artistic side and get messy at the Barn Studio! Arts activity stations will be available for you and your mini to discover together, encouraging materials exploration and developing motor skills. Advance registration encouraged. Materials are provided. Dress for mess. Wednesdays, 10a–11:30a. Free
6, 13, 20, 27
Sit, Stitch & Create
YOLO BRANCH LIBRARY. Do you enjoy crafting, sewing, quilting, knitting, crochet or other art forms? Bring a project to work on and come create with us. 1p–3p. Free
7, 14, 21, 28
Art Explorers: Family Open Studio
DAVIS ARTS CENTER. Explore an array of different art materials, such as paint, oil pastels, and recycled materials. Supplies will be available to let your creative imagination run wild, but you are welcome to bring your own! An adult must attend with at least one child, and children must attend with an adult. Art Explorers: Family Open Studio is FREE every 2nd Friday for ArtAbout. 5p–7p. $5
9
Art in Action: Fanciful Fairy Houses
PENCE GALLERY. Create your own magical fairy hideaway using a variety of decorative and natural materials, including tree trunk slices, moss, acorns, wooden mushrooms, flowers, and more. This is a drop-in program, for ages 5-12, with no registration required. Space and supplies are limited
for the latest listings & more thedirt.online
BRING THE KIDS! LOOK FOR THE BALLOON BESIDE THE LISTING.
to the first 25 participants per session and are available on a first come, first served basis. 12p–2p & 2:30p–4:30p. $5–10
11
Healing Arts One-Time Workshop
PENCE GALLERY. Part of the Pence’s Healing Arts program and run by facilitator Amy Vidra, this one-time, 90-minute art workshop focuses more broadly on a theme related to depression, anxiety, or major life changes. Through the process of art making, participants will have opportunities for discussion, education, and connecting with peers in a safe and supportive space. Registration is required in advance at pencegallery.org. 2p–3:30p. $5–10
12, 26
Figure Drawing
PENCE GALLERY. This group is for both experienced artists and amateurs to have an opportunity to draw from the nude model. If you have never drawn from a live model before and would like to join us, you are very welcome! People of all skill levels, ages 18 and up, are welcome and encouraged to join. Register online at pencegallery.org. 6:30p–9p. $15–22
14
2nd Friday ArtAbout
DOWNTOWN DAVIS. Check out art receptions, pop-ups, open studios, live music, and more at 10+ venues for the artwalk in downtown Davis & beyond. This is a great free event to enjoy with friends and family each month. Hours vary between venues. 5p–9p. Free
14
2nd Friday ArtAbout Reception:
Marieke De Waard
LOGOS BOOKS. Marieke’s focus on form & composition is driven by her interest in architecture & nature. Having lived in many countries - France, Singapore, Indonesia and Japan - Marieke’s work captures a wide variety of architectural designs while still retaining her signature style grounded in spatial relationships & well-balanced compositions. 5p–7:30p. Free
14
2nd Friday Art About at the Pence Gallery
PENCE GALLERY. Browse a variety of exhibits during our reception and enjoy wine from the Terra Sávia & Ettore wineries. On view: Ronald Peetz: Work in Progress, Davis Art Studio Tour Exhibit, Flights of Fancy: Frankie Hansbearry & Marsha Elam, and Watercolor by Joanne Andresen’s Watercolor Class. 6p–9p. Free
14
Bookish
THE PAINT CHIP. 2nd Friday ArtAbout reception at The Paint Chip with local mixed media artist June Daskalakis. Bookish considers the matter of books through allegorical narratives exploring how we engage with the written word. Exhibition period runs March 1–31. 6p–8:30p. Free
18, 25
Watercolor Painting with Misuk Goltz (6-Sessions)
PENCE GALLERY. During this six-week workshop beginning March 18, students will practice “mock” plein air painting with artist Misuk Goltz. Although participants will be painting indoors at the Pence Gallery, the class will choose references from places in California & pretend to visit the countryside, near the water, café, or a city to paint. Demonstrations, critiques, & individual guidance will be provided. Participants should have some previous watercolor experience. Tuesdays, 10a–12p. $180–190
19
Photography Club of Davis
MARY L. STEPHENS LIBRARY. The meeting will feature a photo critique of member-submitted images. Critiques tend to be positive learning experiences for both submitters & the general audience. Participants discuss “why does this image work” as well as “why does this image not work” & how the image may be improved. Attendees also learn about
the techniques involved. The Photography Club of Davis meets every third Wednesday of the month and welcomes members of the public to attend. 7:10p–8:45p. Free
21, 28
Healing Arts 6-Session Workshop
PENCE GALLERY. Beginning March 21, the Pence’s 6-session Healing Arts workshop uses art as a healing language for those experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one. Through the process of art making, participants will have opportunities for discussion, education, & connecting with peers in a safe & supportive space in the Pence Learning Center under the guidance of facilitators Amy Vidra and Lyndsey Rocca. Registration is required in advance at pencegallery.org. 10a–11:45a. $25–35
Working in a Series with Paper and Paint with Sara Post
PENCE GALLERY. Using cradled boards, students will create five collaged pieces that interrelate using artist-made painted & printed papers, additional painting and drawing, & cold wax. This process combines the spontaneity of collage with the interest & beauty of the painted surface. Students will also examine issues around making work in a series & discuss creative ideas for series work. 10a–4p. $360–380
24, 25, 26, 27, 28
Art Explorers: Spring into Art Camp DAVIS ARTS CENTER. Let’s make art! Join us for art adventures, friendship, & fun during Spring Break. Register for a variety of themed days exploring sculpture, painting, drawing, & mixed media, led by our amazing team of Teaching Artists. Davis Arts Center staff will guide campers in fun camp activities & outdoor play. All materials are provided, just bring a water bottle, snack, sunscreen and your creativity! Ages 6–12. 9a–1p. $75/day
MAR 5–APR 5
Working Through It: Women and Their Art
JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. This exhibit offers a historic and contemporary survey of many of the most important women artists who have broken major ground in their fields over the years. Don’t miss this unique exhibition featuring work of over 40 incredible artists. Free
MAR 7–APR 27
Flights of Fancy: Frankie Hansbearry & Marsha Elam
PENCE GALLERY. Hansbearry & Elam are Sacramento-based artists whose ceramics explore whimsical and imaginative themes. In their figurative works, reality flies out the window to reveal anthropomorphic characters, interesting faces, and tales with a twist that hold up a mirror to human nature. 11:30a–5p. Free
MAR 11–APR 20
Davis Art Studio Exhibit
PENCE GALLERY. The annual Davis Art Studio Tour (DAST) returns for a fresh, springtime opening the weekend of April 12–13, from 10a–5p. This free tour is open to all and includes 45 participating visual artists, in media ranging from woodworking, ceramics, and jewelry, to painting, photography, and sculpture. Enjoy a preview exhibit of their work at our annual display at the Pence, and plan your trip! Free maps of the studios are available at the Pence as well. Please visit www.davisopenstudios. com for more information. 11:30a–5p. Free
MAR 29–MAR 30
Dear Mum
I STREET ART STUDIOS, SACRAMENTO. This exhibition is the American debut for Davis local artist, Loraine Watson-Fox. It explores the complex and sometimes fraught relationship between a mother & her daughter and their shared history of anxiety and depression arising from undiagnosed ADHD. While the subject matter is challenging, the artist aims to highlight the sense of hope and clarity that a diagnosis can convey. Sat. 2p–8p, Sun. 1p–5p. Free
THRU MAR 24
A Wing and A Prayer, Ceramic Sculptures by Janine Echabarne THE ARTERY. Echabarne titled her show A Wing and A Prayer because it expresses her feeling that we are flying on one wing in a dangerous time. The bas-relief pieces are like prayers or wishes for all people, everywhere, to enjoy basic human rights. These rights are to love who we want to love, the right to be safe and nurtured, the right to be joyful in expressions of our own making. Free
THRU APR 2
Ronald Peetz: Work in Progress
PENCE GALLERY. Artist Ronald Peetz has been a stalwart part of the regional art scene since the late 1960s. As an object maker and sculptor, he delights in incorporating puns, word play, and irreverent humor into his work. His sculpture and mixed media pieces lean heavily towards social critique and parody, blended with a lighter touch of humor and surrealism. 11:30a–5p. Free
THRU APR 25
Visual Journals: 2010-2024
UC DAVIS DESIGN MUSEUM. An engaging exhibition, which brings together visual journals belonging to students who participated in the UC Davis Design study abroad program. 12p–4p. Free
THRU MAY 5
Ruby Neri: Taking the Deep Dive MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. An established voice in contemporary ceramics, Neri sculpts brightly colored personal motifs and uninhibited female nudes–playing with familiar forms and monumental scale to challenge our expectations. Curated by Ginny Duncan, curatorial assistant. Free
THRU MAY 5
Light into Density: Abstract Encounters 1920s–1960s MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Start with dedicated art lovers and philanthropists Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem. Add 15 works from their collection by world-renowned artists – including Salvador Dalí, Vassily Kandinsky, Joan Miró and Francis Bacon. Top off with 30 UC Davis undergraduate and graduate students studying studio art, art history and design. Free
THRU JUN 22
Through Their Eyes: Selections from the Sandretto Re Rebaudengo Collection
MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. This exhibition brings together painting, photography, sculpture and video by some of the most prominent artists working today, as well as rising new voices. Spanning 45 years of art making, Through Their Eyes spotlights the world as experienced by 30 fiercely original and groundbreaking women artists, and is the first presentation of the renowned collection in the United States. Free
1
A Conversation with the Author: Bee Club
THE HIVE TASTING ROOM AND KITCHEN, WOODLAND. Join us for an afternoon of insightful conversation & captivating storytelling as local author, Mea McNeil, sits down with Queen Bee, Amina Harris, to discuss her latest book, Bee Club. Whether you’re a curious nature lover or a seasoned beekeeper, this is a unique opportunity to hear first hand stories about the dedication, science, & heart that goes into maintaining thriving hives. Bee Club is available for purchase at The HIVE. Mea will be signing copies of the book after the event. 3p–4:30p. Free
2, 9
The Color of Compromise Discussion Group led by Rev. Stephanie Milton DAVIS COMMUNITY CHURCH. Reverend Stephanie Milton will guest preach and lead a three week book study based on Jemar Tisby’s book The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the American Church’s Complicity in Racism. Please join us for this exciting series. 12p–1:30p. Free
4
Dr. Arline Geronimus: Campus Community Book Project
VANDERHOEF STUDIO THEATRE. Dr. Arline T. Geronimus is a renowned public health researcher, professor, and author of Weathering: The Extraordinary Stress of Ordinary Life in an Unjust Society, called a “monumental” book by Ibram X. Kendi, author of How to be an Antiracist. Following her talk, Geronimus will be joined by Donna Apidone for a Q&A. 7:30p–9:30p. Free
13
Author Talk: Grant Faulkner
THE AVID READER. With elegant prose, deep readings of other writers, and scaffolded writing exercises, The Art of Brevity takes the reader on a lyrical exploration of compact storytelling, guiding readers to heighten their awareness of not only what appears on the page but also what doesn’t. Grant Faulkner is the executive director of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and the cofounder of 100 Word Story. 6p–7p. Free
13, 27
Storytime at Pioneer Park
PIONEER PARK. Every 2nd & 4th Thursday for a morning of stories & songs. For ages 3-6. Weather permitting. 10a. Free
6
Author Talk: Ethan Gallogly
THE AVID READER. Set authentically in the High Sierra, The Trail is a moving story of how nature helps us find what’s missing in our lives. The Trail is fused with humor, philosophy, & trail lore. Woven in is a back story detailing the origins of the John Muir Trail: a 211-mile trail spanning the rooftop of the Sierra Nevada from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the continental United States. 6p–7p. Free
6, 20
Poetry Night Reading Series
JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. First & third Thursdays. Each reading contains two featured poets followed by an open mic. 7p. Free
7, 14, 21, 28
Tales for Tails
MARY L. STEPHENS 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. Free
9
Stories on Stage
SUDWERK BREWING CO. This popular event features actors reading works by writers from Davis and beyond. Beer and wine available for purchase on tap, featuring emcee Dr. Andy Jones. 4p–6p. Free
10
Author Night: Sacramento Noir
THE AVID READER. Join authors Jen Soong, Luis Avalos, José Vadi, & Reyna Grande to celebrate the release of Sacramento Noir. They will be joined in conversation by John Freeman. 6p–7p. Free
15
Artist Talk with Ronald Peetz
PENCE GALLERY. Talking with Ronald Peetz is much like his work - fun and full of humor. Peetz’s conceptual pieces are anything but dry, as he uses materials such as baseballs, violin cases, and funerary headstones, to underline his political and social messages. Join him as he talks about his days as an art student in the 60s, inspired by artists such as Stephen Kaltenbach, William Wiley, and others. 1p–2:30p. Free
Plant Powered and Thriving: The Future of Vegan Living
MARY L. STEPHENS LIBRARY. Come hear a plant-based cooking teacher Twyla Teitzel, who will share an abundance of valuable insights & practical resources to empower anyone eager to embrace a vibrant, plant-based lifestyle. Organized by Vegans and Veg Curious of Davis. 5p–7p. Free
ASUCD Mental Health Conference 2025
UCD CONFERENCE CENTER. MHC is the LARGEST student-run mental health conference in California! Join us for an engaging and informative event focused on promoting mental health destigmatization, education, and advocacy. Featuring guest keynote speakers, interactive workshops, healing spaces, caucuses, and more! Register online. 9a–5p. Free
Women Like Us
MARY L. STEPHENS LIBRARY. “Women Like Us” is a group where you can come and be supported by not only a licensed psychotherapist, but other women who
are in the same place in their life. We will meet weekly to talk about things like: food addiction, self care, healthy stress management, mental health & challenges, medication journey, culture of fatphobia, body image and dysphoria. 10:30a–12p. Free
1 Night of Glitz & Glamour – DPNS Auction
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE DAVIS. Join families & friends for “A Night of Glitz and Glamour” for Davis Parent Nursery School’s auction to support our historic coop preschool. Your event ticket gets you delicious tapas, drinks, desserts, and a complimentary bar with wine, beer and custom cocktails. There will be a DJ spinning dancing music & an emcee with improv chops. The evening will include an absolutely loaded silent auction, exciting live dessert auction, fun raffle prizes & a cash raffle. See website link to purchase event tickets in advance, as tickets will not be available at the door. 5:30p–9p. $50
1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29
The Bike Garage Open Hours: Davis Location
BIKE GARAGE, DAVIS. Volunteer organization with mechanics who will repair your bike! Interested in becoming a volunteer? No experience necessary. We also sell quality used hybrid, town, vintage, road, mountain, and kids bikes. We accept cash, Venmo, and Paypal donations. Sat. 8a–12p, Wed. 1p–5p. Free
1, 8, 15, 22, 29
The Bike Garage Open Hours: Woodland Location
BIKE GARAGE, WOODLAND. Volunteer organization with mechanics who will repair your bike! Interested in becoming a volunteer? No experience necessary. We also sell quality used hybrid, town, vintage, road, mountain, and kids bikes. We accept cash, Venmo, and Paypal donations. Sat. 9a–12p. Free
1, 15
West Sacramento Gardening Q&A Desk
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
3 Death Cafe
DAVIS COMMUNITY CHURCH, FIRESIDE ROOM. We gather monthly to increase awareness of death with a view toward helping people make the most of life. The gathering is a simple time of conversation
- no agenda, just a relaxed place to speak about death. Free of charge. No registration required. We DO provide tea and cake! Bring your own mug. 10a–11:15a. Free
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Sweet Peas Pod Support Group
2121 2ND ST SUITE 101A, DAVIS. Join our Monday Morning Support Group for pregnant moms, parents, or caregivers, with babies up to 6 months old or non-walking. Whether you need guidance, connection, or a moment to breathe, you’ll find a COMMUNITY ready to support you. 9a–10a. Free
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Anticipatory Grief Support Group YOLOCARES, ZOOM. Whether you’re a patient, a family member, or close friend, this support group is designed to help you process what you’re feeling, find companionship and perspective from others, and find a pathway forward with dignity and even hope for a meaningful parting and transition to the next stage of your journey. 6p–7p. Free
4, 6, 11, 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 25, 27, 28
English Conversation Group
MARY L. STEPHENS LIBRARY. A conversation group to practice English in a fun and relaxed way with help from a group facilitator. Drop in visitors welcome. Tue. at 6p, Thu. at 1:30p, Fri. at 9:45a. Free
5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28
Davis Genealogy Club Library Hours
DAVIS SENIOR CENTER. This group assists and maintains the Senior Center’s extensive Genealogy Library, and in addition, hosts monthly lectures and meetings. During library hours, members are available to assist you with accessing research materials. Computer access is also available in the library for research purposes. 11:30a–2p. Free
5, 12, 19, 26
Mantra Meditation
DAVIS COMMUNITY CHURCH. We will practice 3 simple techniques that you can continue to practice at home on your own. This includes deep breathing, a technique using beads (Japa meditation), and music (Kirtan). 6p–7:30p. Free
9
Sacred Space
DAVIS COMMUNITY CHURCH. This monthly gathering is an invitation to enjoy the beautiful setting, settle yourself and simply be. Thirty minutes of gentle quiet and beauty for the senses. Light a candle if you wish. Tea and refreshments provided. 9a–9:30a. Free
9
Davis Women’s Circles (Rest, Our Secret Weapon)
CANNERY FARMHOUSE. Are you craving connection and community with other like-minded women? Are you yearning to integrate more beauty, rest, and joy into your life? Do you wish you could slow down, be pampered, and explore aspects of motherhood? If yes, our women’s circles are waiting for you. Register in advance; sliding scale available. 3p–5p. $30
9
Gather for Good #2: Cuts for a Cause
TWO VENUES. In honor of Women’s History Month, Creative Hair & Spa and Underdog Barbershop are participating in Soroptimist International of Davis’ Cuts for a Cause event, raising money to support female empowerment around the globe. 10a–3p. Suggested donation $40/haircut
11
Mac Computer Group for Seniors
DAVIS SENIOR CENTER. The Mac Users discussion group can assist you with learning about the latest technology and gaining advice from others in the community. 2nd Tuesday of each month. 6:30p–7:30p. Free
13
Davis Hiking & Backpacking
Club “Trail Talk Social”
SUDWERK BREWING CO. Share your latest adventures, swap tips, and socialize with a group of adults and parents from the greater Davis CA community who enjoy hiking and backpacking. New members welcome. 7p–9p. Free
16
Little Coyotes Forest Kinder Open House
SOUTH FORK PRESERVE. Little Coyotes Forest Kinder (by Davis Forest School) is a land-based program for ages 3-6 that meets outdoors in nature year-round, rain or shine, with locations in both Davis (South Fork Preserve) & Sacramento (William B. Pond area). This program creates a nurturing & gentle transition for children who are taking their first steps beyond the familiar comforts of home. We provide a supportive environment where they can begin to explore & engage with the natural world around them, encouraging a sense of curiosity, independence, & confidence in their early learning journey. 11a–1p. Free
21
Davis Travelaires Day Trip: Blackhawk Museum
BLACKHAWK MUSEUM. e museum
showcases history, art, and culture across six unique exhibits. Tour at your own pace through e Don William’s Automobile Gallery’s historically signi cant automobiles, e Spirit of the Old West’s stories of Native Americans and American settlers, Art of Africa’s sub-Saharan artifacts, Into China’s tapestry of Chinese history and tradition, World of Nature’s 600 animal species from around the world, and Pat’s Compacts’ mesmerizing array of makeup cases. Lunch will be on your own at one of the Blackhawk Plaza eateries that are within close walking distance. Register at https://DavisTravelaires.org. 8:30a–4:30p. $72
26
Teen Financial Literacy with Valley Strong Credit Union
DIXON LIBRARY. Learn about Banking Basics, Budgeting, Savings, & Credit Scores with Valley Strong Credit Union! Register online to attend. is event is geared towards tweens & teens ages 10 to 18. All ages are welcome. However, children under 10 years of age must have a parent or guardian with them to attend. 4p–5p. Free
28
Mainstage Customer Appreciation Day
MAINSTAGE DISPENSARY. Free lunch with an in-store purchase every last Friday of the month! 12p–5p.
30
Here Together: To Listen, Support & Navigate Uncertain Times
DAVIS COMMUNITY CHURCH, FIRESIDE ROOM. Here Together is a safe space that encourages active listening, meaningful dialogue & re ection–a circle for sharing feelings, thoughts, & life challenges without judgment. Participating in this small group helps strengthen our resilience by encouragement and connection, especially when we are navigating tough times. 3p–4:15p. Free
1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Yoga with Kaia Fit at The HIVE
THE HIVE, WOODLAND. Enjoy monthly yoga in our pollinator garden. Connect breath, body and mind during this hourlong class. A er class, each participant receives a refreshing glass of California Pomegranate Honey Hibiscus Cooler or a sparkling mead beverage. 5-class se-
ries or drop-in. 10a–11a. $25–110
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Beginner Tai Chi
WOODLAND COMMUNITY CENTER. Tai chi (太极) is an ancient Chinese martial art that is practiced for health and self-defense purposes. It is a type of moving meditation in which breathing is coordinated with a series of uid movements and postures. Your instructor, Tina Duan, is a tai chi expert who trained as a professional in China. Dropins welcome. First class free! 8:45a–9:45a.
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Free Circuit Training Monday
ARROYO PARK. Rain or shine, hosted by Happy Heart Yoga. is all-levels class is appropriate for both experienced and non-experienced participants. Meet near the Basketball Courts. BYO mat and water. 9a–10a. Free
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Dance Fitness Classes for Seniors
WOODLAND COMMUNITY CENTER. Dance tness classes o er a dynamic, easy, and fun way for seniors to maintain physical and mental health. Tina creates original, easy-to-follow choreography incorporating low-impact movements from ballet, jazz, hip-hop, Latin, Bollywood, Zumba, martial arts, kickboxing, and more. No dance experience is required. Drop-ins welcome. First class is free! 10:15a–11:15a.
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Children’s Kung Fu Class
DAVIS ARTS CENTER. Learning and practicing kung fu moves feel like playing! Tina creates an inclusive environment for her kung fu students because the focus is on self-improvement, not competition; rather, each child works toward a set goal at their own pace. ere is no sparring. Students have fun using their “angry face” while punching, chopping, and kicking (the air). First class is free! 3p–4p.
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Align & Flow Yoga
DAVIS SHAMBHALA MEDITATION CENTER. Enjoy a 75 minute align & ow class with Jeanne. All classes begin with a meditation and invite mindful movement through attention to breath and physical alignment. 5:30p–6:45p. $15 (cash or venmo only)
4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20
Free trial fencing lesson at True Focus Sports Academy
TRUE FORCE SPORTS ACADEMY. Every Tuesday and ursday, beginner fencing classes are o ered at True Focus Sports Academy (next to Rocknasium). First les-
Reading and the Brain Workshop
Friday, March 7 10:15-11:45am
Sunday, March 9 2:00-4:00pm
Tuesday, March 18 5:00-7:00pm
Join Tara for a workshop on how the brain learns to read and how educators can support students in mastering English words.
International Women’s Day Celebration
Celebrate UN International Women’s Day with advocacy and art. Featuring presentations by Girl Scout Troop 2195 on women trailblazers and Forhat Chowdhury on gender equality in Bangladesh.
Story Circles for Community Connection
Join us for a community story circle to share, listen, and build connections through personal experiences of support and resilience.
son is free. Thursdays we also offer family fencing where parents can fence with their kids. Come and enjoy the fun! 5p–6p. Free
4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27
Beginning + Intermediate Tai Chi Classes
DAVIS ARTS CENTER. Tai chi (太极) is an ancient Chinese martial art that is practiced for health & self-defense purposes. It is a type of moving meditation in which breathing is coordinated with a series of fluid movements and postures. Tina’s class covers the simplified tai chi chuan 13- and 16-forms. This class is suitable for beginners. First session is free! 10a–11a.
5, 12, 19, 26
Intermediate + Advanced Tai Chi Class
DAVIS ARTS CENTER. Tai chi (太极) is an ancient Chinese martial art that is practiced mainly for physical and mental health purposes. It is a type of moving meditation in which breathing is coordinated with a series of fluid movements and postures. Wednesday’s class for more advanced students covers the Yang Style 42- and 48 forms. Drop-ins welcome. First class is free! 10:15a–11:15a.
6, 13, 20, 27
Dance Fitness Classes for Adults
DAVIS ARTS CENTER. Find your joy in movement! Dance fitness classes offer a dynamic, easy, & fun way to maintain physical and mental health. Tina creates original, easy-to-follow choreography incorporating low-impact movements from ballet, jazz, hip-hop, Latin, Bollywood, Zumba, martial arts, kickboxing, & more. No dance experience is required. Dropins welcome. First class is free! 11a–12p.
2 Girl Scout Cookie & Wine Pairing GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. Enjoy four curated wine & cookie pairings featuring Trefoils, Lemonades, Caramel deLites, and Thin Mints! 12p–5p. $25
2
Mardi Gras with Live Music
GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. End Mardi Gras weekend with a fun afternoon of live music, fine wine and tasty food! 12p–3p. $15
5, 12, 19, 26
Woodstock’s Weekly 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.
6
COOL Cuisine: Davis Noodle City
DAVIS NOODLE CITY. Join this series of Planet-Friendly Feasts. Make new friends! Dine high on flavor and lower on the food chain. This Chinese restaurant has a large vegetarian/vegan section and serves large portions. RSVP online. 6:30p–8:30p.
7
Live Music & Food Truck
GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. Enjoy an evening of acoustic music from Ericka & Rob while sipping award-winning wines and indulging in scrumptious eats from a local food truck. 5p–8p. $15
12
Teen St. Patrick’s Day
Cookie Decorating
DIXON LIBRARY. After school, come and decorate free St. Patrick’s Day cookies with your favorite toppings to make them even tastier! This event is geared towards tweens & teens ages 10 to 18. All ages are welcome. However, children under 10 years of age must have a parent or guardian with them to attend. 3:30p–4:30p. Free
15
St. Paddy’s Party at Grindstone
GRINDSTONE WINES, ESPARTO. Join us for a St. Paddy’s party! We’ll be open
10:30a–4p! Irish Band One Eyed Reilly will be at Grindstone from 11a–2p + Fry Boys Food Truck Join us for glasses of Verdejo + St. Paddy’s themed mimosas on the patio. Sláinte! 11a–2p.
20
Yin Yoga & Wine
GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. Unwind and restore with a serene Yin Yoga session set against the peaceful backdrop of our picturesque winery. Join us on Thursday evening for a slow, meditative practice designed to release tension, improve flexibility, and promote deep relaxation. Led by our experienced instructor, Johanna, this class will guide you through gentle, long-held poses that allow you to surrender and reset–perfect for all levels. After class, enjoy a glass of wine, savoring the flavors while soaking in the tranquil vineyard views. 6p–7p. $30
Honey + Cheese Pairing Workshop
THE HIVE TASTING ROOM & KITCHEN, WOODLAND. Cheesemonger extraordinaire Roxanne O’Brien teams up with varietal honey expert, Amina Harris for an immersive & interactive workshop. Indulge your senses as you experiment with an array of cheeses, varietal honeys, & honey fruit spreads alongside an abundant charcuterie spread, celebratory mead and honey themed beverages. Space is limited. 3p–4:30p. $70
Wine Blending Experience
GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. Unleash your inner winemaker with our first hands-on session in the Wannabe Winemaker series! Join Winemaker Marcus as he leads you through the exciting and creative process of crafting your very own unique wine blend. This immersive experience is perfect for everyone–from beginners to seasoned wine lovers–offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the art of blending. You’ll start with several varietals & combine them to create your own custom wine. It’s a fun and educational opportunity to get your hands (and your palate!) involved in winemaking. 2p–4p. $75
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Music Bingo
THREE MILE BREWING. Test your music knowledge while enjoying some brews and good company. It’s the perfect way to end your weekend; you might even walk away with a prize! Whether you’re a music lover or just here for fun, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out–bring the whole family. 6p–8p.
5, 12, 19, 26
Magic the Gathering Weekly Tournament!
DAVIS CARDS & GAMES. Bring your deck. Bring your friends and have a wonderful time. 6p–8p. $12
9
Second Sunday Bingo
ODD FELLOWS HALL. Community members, friends, and family are encouraged to come for an afternoon of fun playing Davis Bingo, which will help support our community’s nonprofits. 12p–4p. $12
1
Mardi Gras with DHS Jazz Choir
GREAT BEAR VINEYARDS. This auditioned ensemble, composed of talented students from Davis Senior High School and Da Vinci High School in Davis, CA, showcases vocal artistry, musicianship, and dynamic stage presence. Their talents span vocal jazz, contemporary a cappella, and show choir. 12p–5p. $25
4, 18
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
6 Thursday LIVE!
ODD FELLOWS HALL. e Davis Odd Fellows Music & Concerts Committee presents ursday LIVE! Free admission. No host beer, wine and so drinks available. Come by, relax and enjoy the music. 7p–10p. Donation based
6, 7, 8
Masters of Hawaiian Music: George Kahumoku Jr., Sonny Lim, Herb Ohta Jr.
VANDERHOEF STUDIO THEATRE. Four-time Grammy-winner, master slack key guitarist George Kahumoku Jr., known as “Hawai’i’s Renaissance Man”, is a multiple Hawaiian Grammy Award winner, a vocalist, storyteller, songwriter and author, teacher, sculptor, farmer, and chef, and honored with a Hawai’i Academy of Recording Arts 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award. 7:30p–9:30p. $24
7 Benjamin Beilman, violin
Steven Osborne, piano
JACKSON HALL. Benjamin Beilman’s remarkable talent won him a spot among the youngest faculty members of the renowned Curtis Institute of Music and a successful stint in the Curtis on Tour 2023-24 season. He’ll be joined by Steven Osborne–a Royal Philharmonic Society Instrumentalist of the Year–for a riveting performance of some of the classical world’s most prized works, including Clara Schumann’s 3 Romances and Brahms Violin Sonata in G Major. 7:30p–9:30p. $17.50–88.50
8 UC Davis Choral concert celebrates music late Professor Albert J. McNeil loved MONDAVI CENTER. Conducted by Nicolás Dosman, director of choirs and a professor of teaching at UC Davis, the evening’s program includes Hold Out Your Light and John the Revelator as arranged by McNeil. 7p–9p. $12–24
13
Taraf de Akácfa Live WATERMELON MUSIC. Created serendipitously in 2014 by traveling street musicians from Sweden, Hungary, France & the United States, the original Taraf de Akácfa members chose to stay in Budapest, Hungary, where they experienced constant musical inspiration and could share their common passion for Eastern European & Balkan folk music. is tour will feature a rich repertoire of Romanian folk music with distinctive interpretations & dynamic arrangements. 7p–9:30p. $20
14
Muusic at Noon! Free Concerts on 2nd Fridays UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF DAVIS. For the 2nd Friday ArtAbout, enjoy a performance by the FluteSong4 Quartet: Ann DiPasquale, Carina Celesia Moore, Pat Walton, Irene Warschauer! Join the premier Sacramento-area quartet on a musical journey of classical, traditional, & jazz standards. 12p–1p. Free
14
New Harmony Jazz Band @ 2nd Friday ArtAbout
E ST PLAZA. A free show featuring Big Band, Swing, and Latin jazz! 6p–9p. Free
15
Rumi’s Caravan Returns to Davis Saturday March 15 VETERANS MEMORIAL THEATRE. e acclaimed Rumi’s Caravan returns to Davis. e improvised poetic conversation with exquisite musical accompaniment moves through moods of prayer and grief to humor and celebration, always highlighting the beauty of the spoken word. e performance is delivered in the oral tradition where poetry is learned by heart, embodied and spoken in community. is performance of Rumi’s Caravan is a bene t for Grace Garden and Empower Yolo. 6:30p. $20–40 suggested donation
16
New Harmony Jazz Band @ Davis Craft & Vintage Fair
CENTRAL PARK. A free show featuring Big Band, Swing, & Latin jazz! 11a–1p. Free
16
Yamato: 人の力 Hito no chikara
JACKSON HALL. is Japanese Taiko drumming group looms (and booms) large, with more than 40 Taiko drums on stage representing di erent characters. Yamato does more than simply make their Taiko drums explode; they produce delicate music that gives the listener a palette of meticulously cra ed sound. At once intense, then sad and even comforting and comical, you’re more than a bystander when you experience Yamato. You’re engulfed in the sound of the Taiko, becoming one with the performers. 2p–4p. $17.50–78.50
21
Les Arts Florissants
JACKSON HALL. For their Mondavi Center debut, Baroque superstars Les Arts Florissants are joined by fast-rising violinist éotime Langlois de Swarte in “Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at 300” commemorating the work’s original publication in 1725. 7:30p–9:30p. $20.00–97.50
29
Tom and the Broken Hearts / Look Sharp!
WATERMELON MUSIC. It’s tribute night!
Tom & e Broken Hearts is a high-energy tribute band dedicated to honoring the music & legacy of the late rock icon Tom Petty. With a dynamic stage presence & spot-on renditions of Petty’s greatest hits, this accomplished group of musicians brings the sound & look of Tom Petty & e Heartbreakers to life. Look Sharp! is made up of three Watermelon Music employees who bonded over their shared interest in Joe Jackson’s early 80’s albums. 7:30p–9:30p. $20
30
Watermelon Music Open Mic
WATERMELON MUSIC. We cordially invite you to attend, whether you choose to perform or just listen. Our open mic is open to performers of all ages & ability levels, designed to provide a safe & supportive platform for everyone. We provide the sound system, grand piano (if you need it...) and an enthusiastic audience. e rest is up to you. 6p–8p. Free
1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Parkside Bar Themed Party
PARKSIDE BAR. Every Saturday, come to Parkside for a di erent themed party. Featuring Sacramento’s best DJs playing Top 40 Hits & bar anthems. 10p–1:30a.
1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Karaoke Night
UNIVERSITY OF BEER. Every Sat. 9p. Free
3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Monday Night Trivia
THREE MILE BREWING. King Trivia App. All ages. 6:30p.
4, 11, 18, 25
Game Night
THREE MILE BREWING. Immerse yourself in a world of board games, card games, & good times! Play ours or bring your own. Plus, enjoy our fantastic Happy Hour. 5p–10p.
4, 11, 18, 25
G Street Karaoke Night
G STREET WUNDERBAR. Every Tuesday night. 10p. Free
5, 12, 19, 26
No Brain Drain Trivia
SUPER OWL BREWING. Hosted by Preacher. Trivia + Comedy + Game Show. 6:30–7:30p. Free
5, 12, 19, 26
G Street Trivia Night
G STREET WUNDERBAR. Every Wednesday trivia starts at 8p & open mic starts at 10p. Free
5, 12, 19, 26
Trivia Wednesday
UNIVERSITY OF BEER. 21+. Games @ 9p.
5, 12, 19, 26
The Pub Quiz with Dr. Andy SUDWERK BREWING CO. 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
6, 13, 20, 27
Trivia Thursday
WOODSTOCK’S. Trivia, beer, and pizza! Trivia sign-ups @ 8:45p; game @ 9p. Free
7, 14, 21, 28
Karaoke Night
TOMMY J’S. Every Friday with KJ Incubus. 10p.
Tree Davis Planting Event
TWO LOCATIONS. Join Tree Davis and Washington Uni ed School District for a series of March tree plantings as part of the Cool School Yolo program! March 1: Riverbank Elementary School. March 22: Whitehead Elementary. 9a–12p. Free
3–JUN 13
Davis Forest School Summer Camp Registration
DAVIS FOREST SCHOOL. Davis Forest School is a non-pro t outdoor education and nature play organization. Our programs are all outdoors in nature, rain or shine, year round! Registration for our popular Summer Camp program opens on March 3rd at 7a on our website. We have drop-o Summer Camp programs for ages 3-12, Monday through Friday in both Davis and Sacramento. We also have weekly Parent/Child classes in Davis and Sacramento for 0-5 year olds to attend with a parent/caregiver this summer. $300/week
Pollinator Garden Tour
THE HIVE TASTING ROOM & KITCHEN, WOODLAND. Join Garden Educator & Pollinator Steward, Rowan Boswell with Nectar Director, Josh Zeldner, for an interactive tour of e HIVE’s 2+ acres of pollinator habitat. Learn about drought tolerant, climate appropriate & native plant species to attract pollinators of all kinds. 10a–12p. Free
19
The Forge Men’s Group: Cold Plunge WOODLAND, CA. e Forge Men’s Group invites you to a cold plunge in Woodland! Challenge yourself & connect with other men committed to personal growth. is experience is an opportunity to step outside
your comfort zone, push yourself physically and mentally, & forge deeper bonds with a supportive brotherhood. Join us as we embrace this challenge together. 6p–8p. $10
2
UC Davis Bohart Museum of Entomology Open House: Venomous vs. Poisonous
UC DAVIS BOHART MUSEUM OF ENTOMOLOGY. Come to this free, open house–the theme will be venomous versus poisonous! Explore the collections, meet some live arthropods & chat with scientists. is is an all-ages event. 1p–4p. Free
4
The Surprising History of the Expansion of the Universe
UC DAVIS CONFERENCE CENTER. e Department of Physics and Astronomy, together with the College of Letters and Science at UC Davis, will be hosting a free reception and public lecture. Professor Adam Riess of Johns Hopkins University and the Space Telescope Science Institute will describe his team’s measurements that reveal how the expansion of space has unfolded over time, and explain why they are surprising. Both of these ndings remain major drivers of the cosmology community’s attempts to understand the cosmos and the fundamental laws of nature. To secure your spot at this event at the UC Davis Conference Center visit https://shorturl.at/Cbgpx. 6p–8:30p. Free
8
Women In Science Expo (WISE) PEREGRINE SCHOOL. Get ready for an exciting, interactive celebration of science at the Women In Science Expo (WISE) at Peregrine South. is free, family-friendly event is perfect for science enthusiasts of all ages! Whether you’re a science lover or new to the eld,
the WISE Expo is the perfect opportunity for the whole community to engage with science in a fun and educational way. 9a–12p. Free 12 Science Cafe
G STREET WUNDERBAR. Hosted by Prof. Jared Shaw, featuring expert speakers on a variety of topics! Brought to you by the UCD College of Letters & Science. 5:30p–7:30p. Free
7, 14, 21, 28
Senior Film Fridays
DAVIS SENIOR CENTER. Watch a film and enjoy popcorn with friends. Check the Senior Center’s website for film titles. 12:30p. Free
1 Winters Friends of the Library (WFoL) Fruit Tree Sale!
517 RAILROAD AVE, WINTERS. There’s nothing like picking & eating fresh, tree-ripened fruit! Don’t miss your chance to beautify your yard & reduce your grocery bills at the annual WFoL Fruit Tree Sale! Trees available include apple, apricot, cherry, mandarin, nectarine, olive, orange, peach, plum, and pluot, blueberries, and blackberries. Limit 10 per customer. Come early for the best selection! Master Gardeners will be on hand to provide advice on tree selection, pruning, planting, and care. Trees generously donated by Sierra Gold Nursery of Yuba City, CA. Purchases support the Winters Community Library. Learn more here: https://wfol.org/fruit-tree-sale. 9a–10:30a.
1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29
Davis Farmers Market
CENTRAL PARK. Visit the market each week to purchase local produce & artisan goods. Every Sat. 8a–1p & Wed. 3p–6p.
2, 16
Davis Craft and Vintage Fair
CENTRAL PARK. Expect to see friendly vendors with local handmade and original art, crafts, quality vintage items, upcycled treasures, earth-friendly creations, good food, and more! Free live music fills the open space for a lively atmosphere so be sure to stop by and join us! 10a–4p.
6, 13, 15, 20, 27
Blue Barn Thrift Store
YOLO COUNTY LANDFILL. Save money while helping our environment. The Blue Barn has gently used items for sale including furniture, housewares, tools, sporting goods, electronics, gardening equipment, toys, and books. Sales Thursdays & the 3rd Saturday of the month, where all items are half priced. 9a–3p.
7, 8, 9
Friends of the Library Sale
MARY L.STEPHENS LIBRARY. The Friends of the Library book sale is the first weekend of each month. On Sunday, fill a bag for $10.
8
UC Davis Members Only Plant Sale
ARBORETUM TEACHING NURSERY. Members of the Friends of the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden are invited to shop our best selection of attractive, low-water, climate-ready plants, receive a special $10-off (no cash value) member appreciation gift, and enjoy 10% off all plant sale purchases. Not a member? Join today online. 9a–1p.
22 Spring Equinox Makers Market
THE INN AT PARK WINTERS. Celebrate the first day of spring with us, featuring highly crafted artisans, delicious farm to fork food and drinks, while enjoying the beautiful Yolo County countryside. 10a–4:30p.
1, 2
PTDT Davis Dance Project –Body, Brain, and Being…How Dancing Changes Everything
PAMELA TROKANSKI DANCE WORK-
SHOP. Exploring the effects that dancing has on our bodies, brains, & sense of self regardless of how old we are, through a short lecture/demonstration with opportunity for audience participation, followed
by performances by the Pamela Trokanski Dance Theatre, PTDT Apprentice Company, The Third Stage, Light Ballet Company, and guest dance companies, SoNE1, & Red Maple Cultural Connection. Sat. at 7p, Sun. at 2p. Kids are free, $10 for everyone 13+
1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 29, 31
Adult Very Beginning Ballet APPLEGATE DANCE STUDIO. Learning ballet is not just for kids - it’s for adults too! This dance class is perfect for you if you have no prior ballet experience or limited previous experience. Curious about learning this beautiful art form? Come join us! No classes Mar. 24–28. Mon. & Sat., 10a–11a. $15
1, 6, 7, 8
Small Mouth Sounds
WYATT PAVILION. A minimalist work of experimental theater, Small Mouth Sounds casts the audience as voyeurs in an entertaining adventure that gradually turns more serious. Directed by Peter J. Kuo, winter quarter Granada Artist-in-Residence, the play is set amid the overwhelming quiet of a haven in the woods, where six runaways from city life embark on a silent retreat. Content warning: Adult language, themes and situations. 7p–8:30p. Adults: $15, Faculty/Staff: $12, Students/Seniors: $5
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
International Folk Dancing
MIRROR IMAGE DANCE COMPANY. Connect with other cultures, while connecting to other people Sunday nights. All levels are welcome. 7p–9:30p. First time is free; $7–70 (based on # of sessions)
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Kids After School Dance Class
DAVIS ARTS CENTER. Children’s rhythmic dance, ballet, jazz, Latin, hip-hop, Asian and Western folk dances. Tina Duan has been teaching children to dance since 1993 and is happy to share her dance knowledge, skills and experience with children. Dance is a great choice for your child’s health and well-being, and Tina’s classes are suitable for kids of all ages. First class is free! 4p–5p.
6, 13, 20, 23, 27
Odd Fellows Line Dance ODD FELLOWS HALL. Beginner easy line dances, latin, jazz, rock’n roll, waltz, country music; great exercise, fun and social, no partner needed. Thursdays & 4th Sunday, 3p–4:30p. Free
7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30
Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein DAVIS MUSICAL THEATRE COM-
PANY. Underwritten by Suzy Goldschmidt, in honor of David Goldschmidt. Recommended for ages 13 & up. Fri. & Sat. at 7:30p, Sun. at 2p. $22
7, 9, 14, 21, 28
Davis Line Dance
DAVIS COMMUNITY CHURCH. Beginning line dance instruction, easy dances, variety of music: Rock n roll, latin, waltzes, country, no partner needed. Fridays & 2nd Sunday, 3p–4:30p. Free 14, 15
Nava Dance Theatre and Rupy C. Tut VANDERHOEF STUDIO THEATRE. Through Bharatanatyam, the Indian classical dance form that expresses South Indian religious and spiritual themes, and mixed visual media, they examine the hyphenated-American immigrant experience, linking it to the displacement of their ancestors during Partition. This intriguing dance project sources poetry, eyewitness accounts and current events to understand the current political climate while reflecting on what it means to belong in the United States. 7:30p–9:30p. $13.50–58.50
“Glow Up” Parent-Child Dance
VETERANS MEMORIAL CENTER. This event is open to children ages 4–13 years old and parents or guardians ages 18 years or older. This year’s theme is “Glow Up!” and participants are welcome to wear neon or brightly colored dancewear for an evening of music, lights and fun activities for everyone to enjoy. DJ, dancing and light refreshments will be provided along with a photo booth and props. $35/parent and child
JACKSON HALL. Led by Guinness World Record holder for “The Fastest Feet in the World” James Devine and five-time World Champion Irish dancer David Geaney, Velocity is joined on stage by a spirited crew of mind-blowing live musicians and an old-school scratch DJ for a show that’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before. 7:30p–9:30p. $17.50–97.50
15, 22, 29
Frozen, Jr
DAVIS MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. Fri. 7p–9p; Sat. & Sun. 2p–4p. $12
by Aaliyah Español-Rivas, UC Davis
5pm on a Sunday in Downtown Davis is anything but bustling. As most folks stay indoors to prepare for the new week, the normally busy streets are empty. e doors on one building, however, swing open and shut—a neon light cascading on all who pass by.
e Davis Varsity eatre is preparing for their nal showing of the day. General manager and 19-year Varsity veteran Whitney Martinez holds down the fort with assistant manager Cristian Recinos as students, families, and regulars trickle in. Martinez was just a high schooler looking for a part time job when she applied, but e Varsity already ran deep in her blood.
“My grandmother worked here when the theater rst opened in the 50s,” Martinez said. “Eventually, I worked here, and my brother worked here, so my family has always had a connection to the Varsity.”
e theater opened in 1921, before it was sold by Westside Valley eaters and rebuilt
in 1949. Since 1950, the theater has undergone many changes before becoming the iteration standing today. From one auditorium to two, adding a stage in front of one of the screens, and even becoming a community theater for fourteen years— until 2005, when the theater was sold to Jon Fenske and Sinisa Novakovic to run as “a single-screen arthouse cinema.”
Arthouse cinemas specialize in high quality lms that may not be extremely successful commercially, like foreign or indie selections.
“ e fact that the Varsity is an arthouse theater makes us stand out,” Martinez said. “We put a lot of thought and research into each lm we show. Instead of playing whatever lm is available or lms projected to make a lot of money, we research and listen to what customers want to see.”
en the pandemic happened. e Varsity pivoted, o ering movies through a streaming service for the community to combat the loss of pro t. And because the theater is a historic landmark, the City of Davis forgave their rent, Martinez said. But the e ects of the pandemic were irreversible.
“Before the pandemic, there was a steady crowd,” Martinez said. “Our audience was mostly seniors, but they were consistent, becoming our regulars. We were playing all Oscar-nominated lms and were on a steady upswing.”
Returning to theaters has proven daunting in a post-pandemic world. Accustomed to streaming, audiences now prefer to stay home. As many as 66% of Americans would prefer to wait for lms when they drop on streaming, rather than see them in movie theaters, according to the Harris Poll.
“It has been a slow, slow, slow comeback,” Martinez sighed. “We’re still not at pre-pandemic levels of attendance. I think this year is the rst year we’re nally starting to see progress, and hope that this trend of larger audiences continues.”
But with the rise of independent lms and studios, a light at the end of the tunnel. Recinos said the lure of new independent lms is what enticed him to visit the Varsity in the rst place.
“I remember coming to the Varsity on a random day,” Recinos told e Dirt. “Obviously the neon signs were the rst thing that drew me in, but I mainly went to see ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once.’ I didn’t know any other theaters in the area playing it since it was an indie lm.”
Recinos knew he wanted to work there. Dropping o his resume every year, Recinos was nally o ered a position in early 2024.
“ ere was just something about the theater I couldn’t shake. ere’s a familiar, family feel to this theater,” Recinos said.
“And I knew a er seeing one movie here, I wanted to be a part of it.”
Growing in popularity, independent studios such as A24 have produced some of the
most critically acclaimed lms in recent years, and the Varsity is the only theater in Davis that shows them.
e Varsity is one of two theaters in town, the Regal Davis Holiday is the other movie theater. Part of the major “Regal” franchise, the theater shows blockbuster lms made by major studios. Davis’ other Regal theater, Davis Regal Cinema 5 closed in May 2023.
“We just want to show movies you can’t see anywhere else. Movies that examine the human condition and leave you with a message,” Recinos said. “We want to get people excited to see movies, not only with our art-deco interior but with the welcomeness we provide.”
MY GRANDMOTHER WORKED HERE WHEN THE THEATER FIRST OPENED IN THE 50S. EVENTUALLY, I WORKED HERE, AND MY BROTHER WORKED HERE, SO MY FAMILY HAS ALWAYS HAD A CONNECTION TO THE VARSITY.
“Since the pandemic, it’s the students that are keeping
us alive,” Martinez said. “We have a lot of regular customers both students and Davis residents, and it has been really nice getting to know them throughout the years and building up a rapport and relationship with them.”
As audiences evolve, one thing remains true – there is a community at the Varsity you can’t nd at any other movie theater.
“I think because we have such a small sta , you do get to know us and build a relationship with us,” Martinez said. “We’re a small business, but also a family.” ough Martinez’s departure is bittersweet, she’s hopeful for the future of the Varsity and thankful for the time she spent.
“I hope the Varsity continues to provide a comforting place for people to come and escape by getting lost in a movie,” Martinez said. “I’ve learned and grown so much during my time here. I’ve made lifelong friendships with coworkers and customers, I met my partner here and fell in love, and I am just so lucky that because of the Varsity I was able to achieve all of this.”
Explore the Downtown Davis art scene in this free, self-guided monthly art walk. Exhibits are hosted by galleries, art studios & businesses in Davis.
ARBORETUM ART WORKS
17 Arboretum Dr, Suites G & H | 5:30p—8p. Visit with artists elma Weatherford, Joel Bresolin, Judy Catambay, Schorré Chevalier Oldham, and Amy Teutemacher.
THE ARTERY
207 G St | 6p—9p. A Wing and a Prayer. View ceramic sculptures by Janine Echabarne, whose exhibit title expresses her feeling that we are ying on one wing in a dangerous time. e bas-relief pieces are like prayers or wishes for all people, everywhere, to enjoy basic human rights.
CIRCLE A STUDIO, THE ART CAFÉ
1930 5th St, warehouse door | 6p—8p. Drawings and Haikus of the Paci c Northwest by Julie Haney. View drawings and haikus from guest artist Julie’s camping adventure to the Paci c Northwest, inspired by the serene and rugged beauty of nature, where art and poetry converge. On the Art Menu: Haiku writing! Writing implements abound with haiku formatting explained.
DAVIS ARTS CENTER
1919 F St | 5p—7p. Free Art Explorers: Family Open Studio. Drop-in with your friends & family and explore an array of di erent art materials. An adult must attend with at least one child, and children must attend with an adult.
DAVIS CRAFT & VINTAGE FAIR
E St Plaza | 5p—9p. Shop from arts, cra s, and vintage micro-businesses’ booths, plus free live music. Weather permitting.
LOGOS BOOKS
513 2nd St | 5p—7:30p. Architecture and Abstracts. Marieke De Waard’s vibrant acrylic and mixed media collages illustrate local and international architectural designs and motifs, with a style grounded in spatial relationships and well-balanced compositions.
MABEL’S MARKET
222 D St, Suite #1 | 5p—9p. Davis Saunterings. View photography by Brett Chulada, featuring a few of his favorites from a year’s worth of wanderings in our beloved town. See striking images of some Davis staples and some hidden gems. Enjoy refreshments, snacks, and speaking with the artist.
THE PAINT CHIP
217 F St | 6p—8:30p. Bookish. June Daskalakis’ mixed media series incorporates fragments of text, inviting viewers to consider the matter of books through allegorical narratives exploring how we engage with written words.
PARKSIDE BAR & OUTPOST BURGER
330 G St | 6p—9p. Max & Julian of e Big Poppies evolve from the rock n roll vibes of the big band to an intimate acoustic duo.
PENCE GALLERY
212 D St | 6p—9p. Davis Art Studio Tour
Exhibit o ers a preview of a wide range of work by 45 artists participating in the tour. Flights of Fancy: Frankie Hansbearry & Marsha Elam features ceramics that explore whimsical and imaginative themes. Ronald Peetz: Work in Progress exhibits sculpture and mixed media pieces that lean heavily towards social critique and parody. Watercolor by Joanne Andresen’s Watercolor Class is on display along the stairway. Enjoy Terra Sávia & Ettore wines.
SECRET SPOT
117 D St | 5p—9p. A Wiggly World. With vibrant colors and uid brush strokes, So a Wildvine’s intuitive style is unmistakable and uniquely beautiful in her acrylic paintings.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST
CHURCH OF DAVIS
27074 Patwin Rd | 12p—1p. Muusic at Noon Free Concert. FluteSong4 is a premier Sacramento area ute quartet that takes their audiences on a musical journey of classical, traditional, jazz, and holiday standards.
14 2025