The Dirt: July 2023

EDITOR’S NOTE

•The Fourth of July was my favorite holiday as a kid. It was my grandmother’s birthday and for some reason that meant everyone could eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For one day only—all the ice cream we could eat.

I inevitably got a stomach ache and asked my mom for a sandwich, but still, each year I loved the build up. Going to the grocery store to buy all of the ice cream and popsicle supplies. It’s something I still get excited about, and now get to enjoy it as a parent with Mila, 6, and Gigi, 4.

Expect big celebrations around Yolo County for the Fourth of July this year. Page 6 has details about fireworks shows in Davis, Dixon, Winters and Woodland.

If you’re trying to come up with the perfect summer picnic dish, we’re really leaning into the Pita Chip Salad on page 6. It’s a recipe from The Kitchen Natural and it’ll be a fast favorite. A very apropos Fourth of July feature on the Hotdogger is waiting for you on page 8.

Wow, that’s been a lot of food talk.

This July we’re also thinking about supporting our local businesses, many of which suffer greatly during the summer months when students aren’t in town. The

Summer Sidewalk Sale is a great chance to support your favorite local shops and maybe score some great deals on wayahead-of-time Christmas shopping? Page 4. And you know those cool, free, public pianos downtown? We’ve got details on where they came from (and if they’re getting tuned!) on page 17. We also talk with John Natsoulas of the Natsoulas Gallery about the many murals you’ve probably been seeing in alleyways downtown recently. That’s page 18.

And please don’t worry about Mila and Gigi—I provide lots of healthy foods on the Fourth of July, too ;)

SIDEWALK SALE

RECIPE: BEST SUMMER SALAD

THE DIRT ON THE HOTDOGGER 8

JULY EVENTS 10

2ND FRIDAY ARTABOUT GUIDE 16

FREE, PUBLIC PIANOS 17

18

NATSOULAS PAINTS THE TOWN: NEW DOWNTOWN MURALS

THE DIRT’S MISSION IS TO SHOWCASE DAVIS & YOLO COUNTY’S UNIQUE PEOPLE, PLACES & EVENTS, INSPIRING READERS & PROMOTING LOCAL ARTS, CULTURE & COMMUNITY.

THE DIRT • DAVIS

Vol 14 • No. 07 • July 2023 thedirt.online

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Hanna Nakano

hanna@thedirt.online

COPY EDITOR

Elizabeth Ellison

INTERN

Allie Wydick

DESIGNER

Kyle Dyer

SOCIAL MEDIA

Isabella Holmes

WEBSITE

Spadefoot Studios

FOLLOW

US: @THEDIRT.DAVIS #THEDIRTDAVIS

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An artist paints a mural in a Downtown Davis alleyway as part of the Davis Mural Team's mission to install ten new murals downtown this summer. Read more about that, and hear from John Natsoulas on page 18. Photo by: Hanna Nakano.

Photo by: @hiandhellophoto

You can’t go to the Davis Farmers Market in July without getting a popsicle from Fat Face. Each flavor is incredible, but you can’t top the mango sticky rice popsicle.

1

Artist Stephanie Peel is a staple at the Davis Craft & Vintage Fair. She sells prints and originals, and is often found live-painting her next masterpiece.

3

Need to go on a deep dive or flex your crossword muscle? Get 72-hours with the New York Times for free, with your Yolo County Library Card

EDITOR’S PICKS

10

Learn about the many different insects living in our state with the UCD Bohart Museum of Entomology. Their scientists are bringing live & preserved species to the Stephens Branch Library July 12 for an interactive program that includes hands-on activities and crafts.

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

Here’s your chance to exhibit your own in a gallery! The Pence Gallery’s summer Exhibit It! display will accept up to 50 works of art from local artists, ages 16 and older. Drop off: July 29. First come, first served.

DAWN, Davis Area Women’s Network, hosts a summer networking party July 19 at Davis Co-Working. This community is perfect for women who have an idea for a start-up, manage a company, own a business, or are self-employed. 9 8

Three Mile Brewing kicks off their Summer Music Series July 1 with live music by Odd Man Out. Live jams every Saturday night in their courtyard off G Street.

7

Learn about the beauty of nature journaling at the Stephens Branch Library. Local natural science artist and author Robin Lee Carlson will guide observations and drawings of local wildflowers and the insects that rely on them. July 19.

2 4 6

A new family art class begins at the Pence Gallery this month. Art in Action offers children aged 5-12 projects that prioritize having fun and learning together with parents or adult caregivers. July 23rd features miniature clay creations.

5

Practice mindfulness, graceful movements, and learn the history and storytelling of Hula. A Sunday Hula dancing class runs through the summer at Village Homes Community Center

July 14–16!

SHOP THE SIDEWALK SALES

The Downtown Davis Sidewalk Sale has been a tradition for more than four decades—and local businesses have never needed the support of shoppers more than they do now.

Nearly twenty downtown shops are participating in the three-day sale, which kicks off July 14 in conjunction with the City’s 2nd Friday ArtAbout.

Expect live music, sidewalk chalk art, art exhibits, and big discounts from local businesses. It’s a major orchestration to make all of this happen at once, and for good reason. Business owners need it.

Retail sales are down nationwide. Businesses are still suffering from pandemic inflation.

Yelena Ivashchenk sees this from all angles. She’s owner of Bohème Clothing & Gifts and a member of the Downtown Davis Business Association Board of Directors. She organized this year’s Sidewalk Sale to support businesses that may be struggling even more during the summer months.

“Having this event in July is aimed to support businesses to stay afloat during slow times as locals travel and students are out of town,” Ivashchenk told The

Dirt. “And the chance to drum up sales during an otherwise slow month.”

Despite the struggle, small businesses continue to serve an incredibly necessary purpose in Davis and Yolo County. Namely, creating and fostering community.

“We believe with every fiber of our beings that locally owned and operated businesses are essential because they exist for and alongside their neighbors,” Erin Arnold, co-owner of Avid Reader and Avid & Co, told The Dirt. “No one is nameless or their preferences guided by an algorithm in the Avid stores.”

Local businesses host local events, donate to local charities, and connect with people in a real-life, human way.

In the Amazon Prime Era, clicking something to the front door is easy. But if we want the small shops we love and enjoy to continue existing, Arnold said, we have to support them.

“Perhaps the most powerful way we can influence society is how we spend our money,” Arnold said. “If we want a vibrant town full of quirky booksellers and unique birthday gifts, we must choose to support those businesses. And bonus, if stores you love do well:

it’s far more likely that more will arrive!”

Spending your dollars geographically also ensures the taxes you’re paying get used locally.

“Local businesses not only pay their employees, they also spend and donate money at other local businesses and non-profit organizations,” Ivashcenko said. “By buying local, you help create jobs for your friends and neighbors, contribute to improved public infrastructure, and invest in your community both socially and economically.”

Each shop will offer their own unique deals, but the DDBA gave us a preview. Expect $2, $3, and $4 racks at Bohème, a fundraiser benefiting Yolo Cares at Armadillo Music, and a pop-up vendor market at Growing Groves.

Check tinyurl.com/sidewalk2023 for an updated list of participating businesses.

And if you’re wondering if being a local shop owner is as cool as it looks, Arnold can confirm: “I love being a bookseller and I am so grateful I get to do this work. If you were wondering if it lives up to the hype, it does.”

Participating Businesses

Pinkadot Logos Books

Sole Desire

Bohème Clothing & Gifts

The Wardrobe

The Vault Board Shop

The Paint Chip

SPCA Thrift Store

Pure Barre

Bubble Belly

The Growing Groves

Peachy Lady

Mabel’s Farm Box

The Avid Reader

Avid & Co.

Hanna Nakano, The Dirt

Downtown Davis, by: Hanna Nakano

FOURTH OF JULY IN DAVIS

Celebrate Independence Day with community, live music and a spectacular fireworks show.

The City of Davis will host a free celebration at Community Park on the Fourth of July, featuring a 15-minute long fireworks show.

The celebration kicks off at 4p, and will include a free game zone coordinated by Discovery Christian Church, plus snacks and treats for purchase from local non-profit groups.

Live music coordinated by the Davis Live Music Collective kicks off at 6:30 starting with The Gold Souls. The Stone Foxes take the stage at 8p. The firework show is scheduled for 9:35p. This is the only legal use of fireworks allowed in the City.

FIREWORKS IN YOLO COUNTY

 Winters

July 3, 5p—10p. Fireworks at 9:15p. Winters High School Football Field

 Dixon

The Dirt’s PRO TIPS:

BYO water (Stay hydrated; temps may get as high as 107-degrees in Davis).

BYO noise cancellation devices for young children. Keep your pets secure and safe—loud noises can be frightening, sending spooked animals running for safety.

July 4, 6p—9p. Fireworks after sunset. Hall Memorial Park

 Woodland

July 4, 6p—10p. Fireworks at 9:15p. Woodland High School

Hanna Nakano, The Dirt

Photo by Jingda Chen on Unsplash.

RECIPE: THE BEST SUMMER SALAD

PITA CHIP SALAD

Want a swoon-worthy summer salad that comes together in minutes? Try this Mediterranean-inspired dish; it’s a simplified riff between a Lebanese fattoush and Italian panzanella. If you like juicy tomato sandwiches, this is the next level. Far more tomatoes, and the juicier, the better. Like, imagine a small ocean of lusciously seasoned summer tomatoes mingled with feta, olive oil and herbs soaking into crisped pita chips (oven-toasted DIY or a bag or your favorite works here). It’s a glorious mash-up of textures, and peak savory-salty-tangy tomato glory. Light, crisp, and cooling, it crowd-pleases at the family reunion, picnic with friends, or a simple dinner at home.

30-Second Cooking Lesson:

Let the tomatoes soak in the seasoning. Salting tomatoes (or in this case, tossing them with all the dressing ingredients) and waiting a few minutes allows the salt to not just sit on top of the food, but start to get familiar with it. It skyrockets the flavor of your farmers market, CSA, or backyard tomatoes to celestial heights, and transforms even grocery store tomatoes to taste like whoa.

RECIPE

30 mins (15 mins if you sub store-bought chips). Serves 4–6.

• 5 pitas

• 1/3 c. of avocado / olive oil, divided; brush on pitas, use remainder in dressing

• 1½ tsp. salt, divided

• 3-4 c. tomatoes, chunked (~¾" dice)

• 2 c. cucumbers, chunked (~¾" dice)

• 1/2 c. sweet onion, chopped (~½" dice)

• 1/3 c. feta cheese, chunked (~¾" dice)

• 2 tbsp. basil, chopped

• 1½ tbsp. red wine / apple cider vinegar

• A few grinds of pepper

1. Preheat oven to 400°. Cut pitas into 6-8 wedges. Place on a large baking sheet, brush with oil on both sides, sprinkle tops with ½ tsp salt. Bake until they begin to look toasted and tinged gold, 7-9 minutes.

2. While chips bake, assemble salad. Place all remaining items in a serving bowl, and toss to coat with oil and vinegar. When pitas are baked, add to the bowl, giving the chips a little crunch to break them up. Mix them in to soak up the juices. Eat immediately (crispy) or let them mingle with the salad for a few minutes before serving (a little softened).

SWAP: Make it easy and use pita chips, pitas crisped from the toaster, or stale ones

from the counter. // Olive oil is classic, but avocado oil is really rich and mellow allowing other flavors to come through a little more than usual. // Try replacing the feta with mozzarella.

SUBTRACT: Make it vegan with no cheese.

ADD: Grilled lamb, chicken, or cooked chickpeas, seasoned with salt and pepper. // Crispy chickpeas are especially good. // Quality olives are a fun addition if you feel nontraditional.

FATTOUSH: Sumac (a smoky-sour, addictive spice from the Middle East) turns this salad into magic. Sprinkle up to 4 teaspoons over the salad.

Sandra Violet Clark, for The Dirt

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

photo by Hanna Nakano

Edward Bennett, for The Dirt

THE ON THE

Istopped by The Hotdogger after their lunch rush to grab a bite and learn more about an old Davis favorite. There I spoke with owner Cheryl and her son Tad and learned about hotdogs, an international mustard seed shortage, and the subliminal sway of small details.

A realist scene by an erstwhile UCD grad student (Evan Thomas Lily) ages in place by the entrance to the smallest hotdog time machine I know. The Hotdogger is a Davis culinary institution much like the hotdog is an American culinary endpoint (akin to deep-dish or PB&J); innovation is tolerated, but tradition is a stubborn gatekeeper.

Of course their Chicago Dog is consistently delicious, but if you want to shake the habitual, try ordering Tad's recent favorite: the Ortega-style spicy mango chicken sausage. Hotdog aficionados please note: one of the owners, Ivan, has embarked on an expedition around the globe to startle his senses and translate these adventures into hotdogs for a developing World

Wiener menu. I am as transfixed by that last sentence as you are.

These new creations will work their way into the 21st-century Hotdogger experience as the business expands out through two newer

locations (Wednesday and Saturday at the Davis Farmers Market; Friday at Ruhstaller) in addition to the original 129 E Street location. I set down my Chicago Dog, then unceremoniously tried the

best fries I've had since I can recall—even as I can't recall the last time I ate fries worth mentioning. I honestly thought I preferred deepfried fries, so I sat thinking about the baked wedge fries as more small details came into focus that make the restaurant seem slightly larger than it could possibly be. At approximately this moment I realized the ketchup's flavor profile was different than I expected, yet perfectly complemented the wedge fries. I called Tad back at The Hotdogger and he confirmed a serendipitous detail—The Hotdogger has been using Hunt's ketchup since the restaurant opened.

Those new to Davis may be unaware a proper Hunts-Wesson tomato factory once stood where the Cannery development is today. I hold no preference for Hunt's over Heinz, so I objectively point to the +1g sugar difference that lends Heinz a palpably sweeter and more tomato-y finish while Hunt's leans tart and vinegar-forward—a real treat for potatoheads.

The Hotdogger's Downtown Storefront, by: Edward Bennett

It should be no surprise then that The Hotdogger's mustard selection is amazing as you dream it to be, even amidst rapidly changing tastes and the havoc of an underreported 2022 mustard seed shortage. These past few years have forced The Hotdogger to renegotiate with some distributors in an effort to continue serving as many of their preferred mustards and other condiments as possible.

Curiously enough, The Hotdogger has never actually advertised (save for a spot in the Enterprise's 2023 Pride issue and sponsoring various Davis community events), yet endures as one of the few small spaces I can relish and share small time with my kids—like we do at Newsbeat or the Delta of Venus; like I did at Bogey's Books, Discoveries, or the State Market.

Among their few marketing materials, The Hotdogger still employs the original logo designed by Dan Dan the Skydiving Man—a cheerful continuation of the old, folded into the present.

3 locations + offerings:

• Davis Farmers Market: fresh corn dogs and world wieners served on Wednesday evenings.

• 129 E Street: All the condiments and their fullest menu (no corn dogs; no world wieners at present).

• Ruhstaller: Grill menu includes world wieners and cheese-skirt fries.

But is it local?

All of The Hotdogger's meats are sourced from Schwarz in Fairfield, buns are baked daily by Village Bakery in Davis, wedge fries and corndogs are made to order, and the in-house sauerkraut traces seasonality & availability at the Davis Farmers Market.

We Are Star Dust

Some of us dustier than others

Uniquely made in the shade

Before the sun glimpsed

Our birthday, before remembering

Before there was a pecking order or

A mind, before Nature, or summer vacations

We became…without a grumble

Or a touch, restlessly pursuing peace

Digging into discovery, naive

To manipulation, like a dragonfly resting

While birds chirped

And stomachs gurgled.

—Ann Privateer

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

Downtown Menu, by: Edward Bennett

THIS MONTH

ART

4, 11, 18, 25

Expressive Watercolor Painting with Misuk Goltz (6-session class)

PENCE GALLERY. Six-part watercolor painting class with artist Misuk Goltz. Students will learn how to choose inspiring subjects, along with techniques to create specific textures, colors, and values, to help bring your painting to a new level. Tuesdays, June 27–Aug 8. Register in advance.

11a–1p. $180 members, $190 nonmembers

5 Exhibit It! A Community Art Exhibit

PENCE GALLERY. Exhibit It! is a first come, first served community art exhibit accepting up to 50 works of art. Artists ages 16 and older may drop off one artwork of their choice.

11:30a–5p. $20 members/$30 non-members

7

“Meow Meow Meow” The Cat, Wild and Domestic THE ARTERY. Fluffy cats, fierce cats, funny cats, big cats and bitty cats. Using a diversity of mediums, our artists pay homage to these iconic and enigmatic animals. 10a–6p. Free

7

artists from all over California. 11:30a–5p. Free

Dixon Kindness Rock Painting

SOLANO COUNTY LIBRARY, Dixon. Join us for some fun painting time the first Friday of every month! Then leave your rock somewhere where it will make someone smile. All ages welcome. 5:30p–6:30p. Free

7, 14, 21, 28

Senior Watercolor Group

DAVIS SENIOR CENTER. Weekly gathering for artists of all skill levels. Lead by volunteer teachers. 9a. Free

9

Second Sunday Ceramics

DAVIS CARDS & GAMES. Choose from hundreds of unpainted ceramics & paint as many pieces as you like. 2p. $8

11

Slice: A Juried Exhibit of Regional Art 2023

PENCE GALLERY. The Slice exhibit is now in its 11th year. This display of contemporary art in a variety of media celebrates the work of

12, 26

Figure Drawing Group

PENCE GALLERY. Drop-in, self-guided sessions with a nude model every 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month. Limited to 10 participants. Register online. 6:30p–9p. $22

14

Opening Reception: Prints by Gregory Kondos

JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. Celebrate the gallery’s most recent exhibition featuring one of the greatest landscape painters of the Sacramento Valley region. Features free refreshments & live music. 6p–9p. Free

14

Artist reception: Christine Shackel LOGOS BOOKS. 2nd Friday ArtAbout reception for artist Christine Shackel. Meet the artist and view her exhibit. 6p–8p. Free

14

2nd Friday ArtAbout Reception

for the latest listings & more thedirt.online

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

PENCE GALLERY. 2nd Friday ArtAbout reception. Meet the artists, browse the exhibits and enjoy a free wine tasting by Twisted Cedar Wines. 6p–9p. Free

14

2nd Friday ArtAbout!

MULTIPLE VENUES. A monthly, self-guided art walk featuring installations & receptions at local galleries, art co-ops & businesses. Enjoy live music, a wine tasting & conversations with special artists. 5p–9p. Free

15

Assemblage: A Workshop with Amy Vidra

PENCE GALLERY. Amy Vidra demonstrates how to choose & assemble objects from an intuitive based approach using photos, mixed media & stitching. 1p–4p. $135–$145

23

Art in Action: New Family Workshops

PENCE GALLERY. Opportunity for parents & kids (ages 5-12) to participate in engaging art projects. Drop in only! No registration required. Different activity each month. 1p–3p. $5–$10

Photo by Christian Bowen on Unsplash

20

Art Spark: Summer

MANETTI SHREM MUSEUM. Free, dropin art activities on Thursdays and Fridays beginning July 20. A rotation of activities suitable for a wide range of ages and skill levels will be offered. 10a–p. Free

ART SHOWS: CONTINUING

THRU JULY 2

An Apple a Day: Stephanie Way

SUPER OWL BREWING. An exploration of color through daily pastel drawings of fruits & vegetables, by artist Stephanie Way. Free

THRU JULY 3

Off the Floor & on the Wall: Handwoven Creations & Artistic Expressions

THE ARTERY. Exhibit featuring weaving & rag rugs by Lisa Erskine. Jerri Erskine-Zilbert displays handwoven creations & Blayney Breckenridge displays clay art. 7p–9p. Free

THRU AUG 1

Woodland Community College

Student Showcase

GALLERY 625. Student showcase features a group exhibition of the WCC Kingsley Merit Scholarship finalists along with the work of students from the Woodland Community College art program. M-F, 8a–5p. Free

THRU AUG 19

Shapeshifters Exhibition

THE BARN GALLERY. Featured artists include Caiti Chan, Mark Emmerson, Laura Howhlwein & Jeff Mayry. Reception 06/22. Free

THRU AUG 20

Sayako Dairiki: Mended Memories

PENCE GALLERY. Sayako Dairiki approaches painting with a focus on mindfulness. Following her adoption of sashiko, or visible mending to fix holes in several of her garments and blankets, Sayako began to echo the stitching pattern on canvas. Free

THRU AUG 20

Prints by Gregory Kondos

JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. Gregory Kondos (1923-2021) was one of the greatest landscape painters of the Sacramento Valley region. A close friend of Wayne Thiebaud, Kondos captured the fields, mountains, and shores of California, and the coastlines of his ancestral Greece. He has appeared in exhibitions around the world. Free

THRU AUG 26

California Landscapes Exhibition

JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY. An exhibition of landscapes by California artists. Free

BOOKS & TALK

2

Disability Pride Month: Author Talks with Judith Rogers & Alicia Butcher Ehrhardt

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Join authors Judith Rogers & Alicia Butcher Ehrhardt & celebrate Disability Pride Month. Book sales & signing available. 2p–4p. Free

4, 11, 18, 25

Mother Goose on the Loose!

STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY.

Award-winning early literacy program for toddlers (ages 2-3) & their grown-ups. It combines music, movement, rhymes & books to help young children develop language skills, social & emotional skills, general knowledge about the world & a love of learning. 11a–11:30a. Free

6

Poetry Night Reading Series: Erin Rodoni and Paul Aponte

NATSOULAS GALLERY. Poetry Night Reading Series featuring Erin Rodoni and Paul Aponte + open mic. 7p–9p. Free

7, 14, 21, 28

Tales for Tails

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

20

Poetry Night Reading Series: Susan Flynn and Jemi McDonald

NATSOULAS GALLERY. Poetry Night Reading Series featuring Susan Flynn and Jemi McDonald + open mic. 7p–9p. Free

25

Avid After Hours : Romantics’ Book Club

AVID READER. A no-stress, safe space for romance aficionados, amateurs & everyone in between. Discuss the monthly picks! This month,

the theme is “Christmas in July.” 8p–9:30p. Free

COMMUNITY

4 City of Davis Annual 4th of July Celebration

COMMUNITY PARK. Local eats, live music & fireworks! The City of Davis’ Fourth of July celebration will feature an activity zone, music by The Gold Souls and the Stone Foxes, and a 15-minute firework show. Drinks will be sold, but visitors are encouraged to bring water. 4p–10p. Free

6,

13, 20, 27

Makerspace Drop-in Hours

STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. A weekly community workspace for makers, builders, designers & inventors. Some tools available for use. Supervised children welcome. Signed liability waiver required. 9a–11a. Free

7,

21

Davis International Parent Community Gathering

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

15

LEGO Block Party

STEPHENS DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY. Caregivers encouraged to join. No res-

ervation needed. Not recommended for children under 3. 2p–4p. Free

19

DAWN (Davis Area Women’s Network) Summer Networking Party DAVIS COWORKING. Join a local community of women in business who value collaboration over competition and would love to connect and support new friends. 6p–8p. Free

20

Collective Workshop: Mechanic Series DAVIS BIKE COLLECTIVE. A focused workshop on a select part of the bike. Intended for people interested in learning the finer details of the bicycle’s mechanical systems. Every third Thursday. 5p–7p. Free

28

Fourth Fridays in Downtown Winters DOWNTOWN WINTERS. Bring the whole family to enjoy live music & good eats as restaurants along Main Street will be serving delicious food. Fourth Fridays through September. 6p–10p. Free

FITNESS

1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Adult Very Beginning Ballet VILLAGE HOMES. No ballet experience required! Learn the ballet basics & terminology while slowly breaking down new moves. 10a–11a. $15

7, 14, 21, 28

Free Yoga Fridays

ARROYO PARK. Rain or shine. All levels welcome. 10a–11a. Free

15

Davis Moonlight Race

201 COUSTEAU PL. A fun and festive evening including 2K, 5K, 10K & 10 mile courses traveling through South and East Davis. A half mile fun run open for kids under 12. Arrive one hour prior to race start. Check website for pricing. 7:30p–11p.

25

Centering Dance: A Monthly Guided Mindfulness Practice of Embodiment

STAMBUSKY STUDIOS. Release, recharge & recenter by gifting yourself 90 minutes of intuitive, inspired, mindful movement with a welcoming local community. Discover the special alchemy that occurs at the intersection of mindfulness, movement & music. No dance experience is needed. All are welcome. Guided by Teresa Hooker, PsyD. 7:30p–9p. Don/$20

FOOD & DRINK

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 is 50% off for the night. Ask the bar-

tenders when you arrive. 8p to close.

27

Aggie Night at Sudwerk Brewing Co.

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

GAMES

1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Adult D&D

DAVIS CARDS & GAMES. Weekly game night run by professional Dungeon Masters. New and experienced players welcome. Tickets available online. 6p–9p. $10

1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Kids D&D

DAVIS CARDS & GAMES. Ages 9-15 welcome for a Dungeons & Dragons tournament. 12p–2p. $10

1, 15, 29

The Great Puzzle Competition

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

1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Family D&D

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

MUSIC 1

You Knew Me When

ROBIN’S NEST. A husband & wife folk-rock pairing with a full band sound. Rsvp online for address. Bring your own drinks & chairs. Band begins 6:30p. 5:30p–9:30p. $20

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Summer Music Series

THREE MILE BREWING. Summer Music Series features a different band each Saturday night in the Three Mile Courtyard off G Street. Click for dates & artists. 7p–10p. Free

2

Lorin Rowan & the Deep Blue Jam

RUHSTALLER FARM. Enjoy both americana rock & reggae jamming. Bring the dog & the kids! All donations go to the artists. 4p. Free

6, 20

Concerts in the Plaza

PARADI PLAZA, DIXON. Enjoy free music on the first and third Thursday of the month. Bring a picnic basket & lawn chairs. 6p–8:30p. Free

7 Matt Grasso Acoustic Guitar Concert

ODD FELLOWS HALL. Seven 7-stringed guitars playing both classical and contemporary music. 7p–9p. Free

8 Acapella Concert: Tune Up

PEREGRINE SCHOOL. Locally based “acapella-plus” group Tune Up features vocalists Bill Cavins, Dianna (Dede) Craig, Lane Suarez, and Vicky Boesch. Prior to the performance, Craig will present a 1-hour educational presentation. 10a–12p. Free

9

Second Sunday Bingo!

ODD FELLOWS HALL. Davis Odd Fellows Bingo! is a remarkably efficient way of giving to the community. All proceeds from Bingo! gaming, after gaming expenses, go to charitable organizations in our community. July’s event benefits Davis Encampment #21. Doors open at 12p, game begins at 1p. $12

9

Mais Bossa House Concert

TBD PRIVATE HOME. A summer evening of beautiful bossa nova in an intimate backyard setting near downtown Davis! Mais Bossa plays the classics and deep cuts of the bossa nova era along with Brazilian inspired takes on American favorites. 6:30p–9p. $20

9

Michael Rock: Echo Canyon

RUHSTALLER FARM. Enjoy beer, wine, kombucha, ice cream, water games, chicken, dogs & ducks. Free live music. 6p. Free

13

Bikes & Beats

ARMADILLO MUSIC. Open beat cyphers & good vibes with the Flipabeat Club squad Dellaola, Matty A & Taquan. 6p–9p. Free

14

Music at the Mill: Katalysst MORGAN’S MILL. A progressive folk rock group that smoothly fuses both simplicity & complexity through thoughtful chord progressions & dynamic bass lines. RVSP online. 7p–9p. Free

14

Aaron Jonah Lewis Live WATERMELON MUSIC. Aaron Jonah Lewis is a champion fiddler who has been elbow-deep in traditional American fiddle and banjo music since their first lessons at the age of five. 8p–10p. $20

14

Winters Open Mic WINTERS MAIN STREET. A monthly gathering of musicians, poets & other creatives. Sign ups begin at 6p. Show begins at 7p. Free

15

Misner & Smith

ROBIN’S NEST. A combination of soaring vocal harmonies, tight instrumental arrangements & story-filled, poetic songwriting. Reservations needed. Bring your own drinks & chairs. Band begins 6:30p. 5:30p–9:30p. $20

22

The Quitters

ROBIN’S NEST. Trio consists of a right-side-up finger picker (Stevie Coyle), an upside-down flat picker (Glenn “Houston” Pomianek), & an upright bassist (Chris Kee). Rsvp online for address. Bring your own drinks & chairs. Band begins 6:30p. 5:30p–9:30p. $20

Ruhstaller Farm Yard: Old Mule RUHSTALLER FARM. Free music on the farm, enjoy community & beer. 7p. Free

28

Davenach & the Usual Culprits

Live at the Melon Ball

WATERMELON MUSIC. Dave Nachmanoff (singer/songwriter), Martin Lewis (guitar), Nick Carvajal (drums & vocals) & Brenden Tull (bass) perform a mix of Dave’s award-winning original songs & a few covers. 8p. $20–$10

28

Music in the Park GRINDSTONE WINES. Featuring live music from Californios and food by West Coast Taco Bar. Bring lawn chairs. 6p–9p.

30

Harp Fest at the Nest

ROBIN’S NEST. A special Sunday afternoon event featuring two exceptional harpists, Anna Maria Mendieta & Alaina Rose. Rsvp online for location. Bring your own drinks & chairs. 4p–6p. $20

NIGHT LIFE

1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Karaoke Night

UNIVERSITY OF BEER. Every Sat. 9p. Free

2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Three Mile Brewing Sunday Trivia

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

3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Karaoke Night

G STREET WUNDERBAR. Pick a song & sing along.10p.

4, 11, 18, 25

Trivia Tuesday

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

5, 12, 19, 26

Trivia Wednesday

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

6, 13, 20, 27

No Brain Drain Trivia

SUPER OWL BREWING. Hosted by Preacher. Trivia + Comedy + Game Show. 6:30–7:30p. 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.

OUTSIDE

2

Tours of the City of Davis Wetlands

CITY OF DAVIS WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT. In-person tours run rain or shine, except in the instances of flooding. Reservations are required. 9a–11a. Suggested donation: $10

2

Wildcat Canyon Hike with Davis Odd Fellows

WILDCAT CANYON REGIONAL PARK. Moderate five mile hike with gorgeous views of San Francisco. Group will depart from the Big 5 parking lot at 8:30a. RSVP at (530) 908-6800. 8:30a–1p. Free

3

Creek Explorers: Fish at the Davis Library

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. The Putah Creek Council visits the library. This week’s topic: fish. 2p–3p. Free

5, 12, 19, 26

Nursery Volunteer Day

NATIVE PLANT NURSERY, WINTERS. Volunteer & learn about the amazing plants of Putah Creek & meet like minded people! Every Weds. Register online. 9a–12p. Free

10 Creek Explorers: Omnivores at the Davis Library

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Putah Creek Council visits the library! This week’s theme is...omnivorous mammals! 2p–3p. Free

17

Creek Explorers: Reptiles at the Davis Library

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Putah Creek Council visits the library! This week’s theme is reptiles. 2p–3p. Free

24

Creek Explorers: Predatory Birds at the Davis Library

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Putah Creek Council visits the library! This week’s theme is...predatory birds! 2p–3p. Free

31 Creek Explorers: Aquatic Macro Invertebrates at the Davis Library

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Putah Creek Council visits the library! This week’s theme is aquatic macro invertebrates. 2p–3p. Free

SCIENCE

1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 Explorit Rocks! Weekend Activity

EXPLORIT MUSEUM. Visit Explorit Rocks! an exhibit about rocks, fossils & crystals. A fun science activity or craft is included with admission every weekend. Enjoy a beautiful pollinator garden & the surrounding Mace Ranch Park. 10a–2p. Free for under 2 yrs/General $5

12

Bohart Museum of Entomology at the Library

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. UCD

Bohart Museum of Entomology scientists share about the critters living in your backyard! Get excited for an interactive program filled with live & preserved species, including hands-on activities & crafts. 2p. Free

19

Nature Journaling

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. Natural science, artist & author Robin Lee

Carlson teaches guests to sketch local wildflowers & insects. 2p. Free

22

Night at the Museum

BOHART MUSEUM. An evening at the Bohart Museum of Entomology celebrating moths and flies. Family friendly, free parking. 7p–11p. Free

26

Wild Things

STEPHENS BRANCH LIBRARY. From fur to feathers to scales, explore intriguing & beautiful animals that live right alongside us. Learn about a diverse range of native species through rescue stories. 2p. Free

SCREEN

7, 14, 21, 28

Senior Center Friday Films

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

30

Family Movie

STEPHENS BRANCH DAVIS LIBRARY. Movie & popcorn! Call for movie title at (530) 666-8005. 2p-4p. Free

SHOPPING

2

Davis Craft & Vintage Fair

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

2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Sunday Farmers Market

DOWNTOWN WINTERS. Enjoy local produce, fresh flowers, food vendors & more. 9a–1p.

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 Wed, 3p–6p & every Sat, 8a–1p.

5, 12, 19, 26

Spork Food Hub Farm Stand

SPORK FOOD HUB. Weekly farm stand at the Cannery. Market items include: local produce from family farms, pasture raised pork, honey, jam and freshly milled flour. 2p–6p.

7, 8, 9

Friends of the Library Book Sale

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

STAGE & DANCE

1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 Sweeney Todd (2023)

DMTC. An infamous tale, Sweeney Todd, an unjustly exiled barber, returns to nineteenth century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge who framed him & ravaged his young wife. Recommended for ages 11 & up. Fri & Sat 7:30p. Sun 2p. $10–$18

2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Hula Dancing

VILLAGE HOMES. The graceful movements & storytelling of hula, helping you build strength, flexibility & confidence. 9:30a. $15

15

Ecstatic Dance with Roaming Sunshine VILLAGE HOMES COMMUNITY CTR. Monthly journey of music, movement and mindfulness. All ages, free-form, substance-free lance party. 11a–1:30p. Free

24

Auditions for Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr

DMTC. Auditions for Young Performers’ Theatre production of The Little Mermaid Jr. July 24–July 25. Contact for hours. Price TBD

21, 22, 23

“Broadway, Here I come!”

WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE. Corner Drug Co. Presents Show Biz Kids “Broadway, Here I come!”. Support campers ages 5–7 years old & enjoy their final musical performance. Fri 7p. Sat & Sun 2p. $8–$12

21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30

Dear Harvey

WYATT PAVILLION. A documentary-style play that weaves together interviews, multimedia & music, exploring the life & legacy of gay activist & politician Harvey Milk. Fri, Sat 7p. Sun 2p. $10–$15

21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30

Wizard of Oz

DMTC. The Youth Performers’ Theatre enacts the classic story of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion & Toto as they travel the universe of Dorothy’s imagination. All ages welcome. Fri 7p. Sat & Sun 2p. $10

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

1. ARBORETUM ART WORKS

17 Arboretum Dr, Suites G & H | 5p–8p | Open studios Arboretum Art Works is a working artist collective featuring artists in two suites. Artists in attendance include Thelma Weatherford, Cathie JamesRobinson, Schorré Chevalier Oldham, Joel Bresolin, Judy Catambay, Mark Ellsberry, and guest artist Amy Teutemacher.

2. THE ARTERY

207 G St | 7p–9p | Reception Meow Meow Meow - The Cat, Wild and Domestic by Artery Members and Guests. This group show captures the power and elegance of wild cats and the charm of domestic companions—from prowling tigers in lush landscapes to sweet house cats curled up in cozy corners. The art media in this show includes painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, photography, and fiber.

3. DAVIS CRAFT & VINTAGE FAIR

E St Plaza | 5p–9p | Shopping & Music

Creative, Quirky, & Fun! The Davis Craft & Vintage Fair at E Street Plaza has unique and fabulous vendors, plus free live music from 6–9 PM. Shop from your local artists and small businesses.

4. JOHN NATSOULAS GALLERY

521 1st St | 7p–9p | Reception California

Landscape Painting Exhibition. The John Natsoulas Gallery is pleased to host an exhibition featuring the great landscape painters of California. This lively show will capture how each artist approaches the natural environment with a keen eye and a distinctive style, and how they all capture the special beauty of the region.

POP-UP ART SHOWS & LIVE MUSIC

FREE, MONTHLY, SELF-GUIDED ART WALK

5. LOGOS BOOKS

513 2nd St | 6p–8p | Reception Golden Edges. Meet Christine Shackel during an artist reception at Logos Books. Her current series of work is an exploration into a freer and more spontaneous response to watercolor. Light refreshments will be available.

6. THE PAINT CHIP

217 F St | 6p–8:30p | Reception Paintings by Kristina Kernytska. Visit The Paint Chip on July 14 for an artist reception. You can view oil and acrylic paintings by artist Kristina Kernytska. Refreshments will be available.

7. PENCE GALLERY

212 D St | 6p–9p | Reception Visit the Pence for the opening reception for three new exhibits. Slice: A Juried Exhibit of Regional Art celebrates the diversity of expression in our region with an array of sculpture, prints, paintings, and photography. Mended Memories features paintings by Sayako Dairki, with geometric elements inspired by the traditional Japanese mending technique of sashiko. Head upstairs to view Exhibit It!, the Pence’s annual non-juried community art show. Enjoy a free wine tasting by Twisted Cedar Wines.

8. THIRD SPACE ART COLLECTIVE 17 Arboretum Dr, Unit C | 6p–9p | Reception

I Have Hope. Kenneth Arnold is a painter, illustrator, and video maker exploring the inner psyche through freeform drawing and painting. His paintings possess mystery, surrealism, and a childlike vision, serving as a dialogue with himself. Arnold’s choice of materials deviates from traditional studio practices, as he prefers to use oil and chalk pastels. By incorporating drawing with sticks and mixing water with chalk pastels, his paintings take on a textured appearance, emphasizing emotional realism over visual accuracy.

2ND FRIDAY ARTABOUT SPONSORED BY:

1. Catambay, Untitled. 2. Nelson, Appliqué Cat. 3. Craft & Vintage at E St Plaza. 4. Gandiol, When Light Drips.

5. Shackel, Untitled. 6. Kernytska, Quiet Grandeur - Yosemite, CA. 7. Dairiki, For the Words She Couldn’t Say (detail). 8. Arnold, Getting Back Up (Living with CPTSD).

In the Key of Davis

It’s piano season in Davis, and eight public pianos have been installed throughout the City.

In the Key of Davis is the program behind the public pianos. The idea is to offer a space for improv gatherings, spontaneous connection, and celebration of music. There’s no sign-up sheet—just find a piano and start playing.

Two of the new pianos introduced this year were designed by local elementary and high school students. The piano at Hunt Boyer Plaza is covered with poems on diversity and uniqueness by the sixth grade students in teacher Amy George’s Birch Lane Classroom. Drawing

and painting students in teacher Kyle Monhollen’s Davis Senior High School arts class painted the piano located at Central Park with images of Davis flora and fauna.

All pianos in the program have been donated by community members; the free-use, outdoor pianos will be tuned regularly.

In the Key of Davis was launched in 2015 as the brainchild of two local teenagers, Isabelle and Hailey Shapiro. The Shapiro Family has been coordinating the program ever since, and work with the City each year to introduce new pianos and locations.

Photo by: Cristian Recinos (full gallery online)

DAVIS MURAL TEAM

PAINTS THE TOWN!

PROLIFIC ARTIST COLLECTIVE TO PAINT 10 MURALS THIS SUMMER

The Davis Mural Team has returned after a decade and is undertaking quite the project this summer: providing public art downtown in the form of 10 new murals.

Founded by John Natsoulas and Bill Maul in 2011, the Davis Mural Team is responsible for many of the City’s existing well-known murals and sculptures.

Before the team began their work, there was little to no art in downtown Davis. Since then, the impact of the Davis Mural Team’s work has been recognized through the American Planning Association award for Best Grassroots Art Project.

They’ve already tackled two murals this summer—projects headed by artists Steven Higgins and Adam Forfang, which can be found downtown—and they have big plans for the rest of the summer.

“I think as a community we can accom-

plish anything,” John Natsoulas, owner of the Natsoulas Gallery, told The Dirt

The mural projects are funded by Natsoulas himself and are made possible by the time, labor, and skills donated by artists. The walls are provided by owners of the private properties.

“Just by seeing us out here working, more people become interested,” Bill Maul, director of the Mural Team, said.

and we say ‘Absolutely!’,” Natsoulas said.

The Davis Mural Team is proud of their commitment to partnering with young, local artists.

Stay tuned for announcements from the Natsoulas Gallery with opportunities to help the Mural Team this summer.

“I love the diversity now in the ages of our artists,” Natsoulas said. He’s enthusiastic about the tradition of the mural team continuing on and calls artists Adam Forfang, Rene Martucci, and Thea Hudson “critical” to the team’s success.

Public art can eliminate barriers to learning about art and being an artist. Murals in many ways can “start the conversation about the art and culture in our town,” Natsoulas said.

Creation of the Davis murals often involve community members, as well.

“People come along and ask to help,

The Natsoulas Gallery provides a map of art in downtown Davis that will be updated with the Mural Team’s work. In the fall, they plan to lead Art Walks—guided tours of the work done a decade ago, and work that is carrying on the legacy of the Mural Team this summer.

Isabella Holmes, for The Dirt

I think as a community we can accomplish anything.

JOHN NATSOULAS

William Maul, John Natsoulas, Thea Hudson, Seongmin Yoo

Photo by: Hanna Nakano