This Weekend in The People’s Republic

When I first came to Davis I was under the impression that life in a smallish college town couldn’t offer one much in the way of entertainment. I’m not exactly sure what I pictured the people of Davis doing, but I was half prepared to be spending a lot of time in movie theaters and reading in cafes to stave off boredom. I’ve since opened my eyes and I am still discovering new and enriching ways to spend my time. This is Davis people! Get outside and enjoy our wacky little People’s Republic.

This Saturday is Picnic Day and whether you’re looking for university-oriented activities or to stay off campus altogether, there are just too many great things happening to list in today’s post.  Stay tuned to Kemble’s Picnic Day choices.  After the jump, get the details on the non-Picnic Day events that I’ve chosen to highlight.

Friday, 18 April 2008

The Mad Cow String Band (MUSIC)
10pm, Sophia’s Thai Kitchen
$3

Michael Leahy has become Davis’s authority on good folk music. He has booked folk music shows throughout our town, and I have come to trust any act that Michael books to be awesome. This Friday marks the very first show of the season at Sophia’s, and the beginning of Michael’s second year as Her booker. No other band is quite as fitting as The Mad Cow String Band to open up the season; spending a cool night on the patio with these guys is somewhat of a Sophia’s tradition. More info.

Charity Denim (BENEFIT)
11am-4pm, International House (10 College Park Dr.)
Free

Buy designer jeans at a steep discount…and support charity! Charity Denim offers designer jeans at 40-70% off retail prices and plans to donate all the proceeds to charity. Precisely which charity isn’t clear, but cheap jeans and a good cause? This event is at least worth checking out.

Saturday, 19 April 2008

DPFS: Bicycle Basics (WORKSHOP)
1pm, Bike Church at The Domes
Free

I visited the Bike Church this week, and for the first time perused the piles of bikes and bike parts. What I found was not only the bicycle frame of my dreams, but also a skilled and friendly “minister” to answer all my questions. I may or may not call myself a bicycle enthusiast but I’m definitely not what anyone might call adept at building or maintaining them. This Saturday, Darach will lead Bicycle Basics and cover topics useful in bike building: headsets, bottom brackets, hubs, brakes, stems, and more. More info.

Drum and Bass Party (MUSIC)
6pm-12:30am, Delta of Venus
Free

The Delta’s Drum and Bass Party is a Picnic Day tradition. This year, Thizzianna Jones headlines with MCs L-Ski and Virus and is preceded by the likes of Billy Lane, Johnny Rotten, DJ Rogue, DJ Headcayce, E.D, and G.oST. More info.

Sunday, 20 April 2008

DPFS: Breaking Stuff (WORKSHOP)
1:30pm, Central Park
Free

“In this series you will construct new electronic-related projects built from free materials. In this first class we will take apart whatever participants bring. You will learn all about how electronic devices operate. This is meant to be an intensive course in electronics; no prior experience necessary. Come early at 12:30pm for a free lunch. Requirements: This is meant as an adjunct to the Maker Faire which takes place May 3-4 in San Mateo, but all are invited to participate and attend. Please bring tools (screwdrivers, pliers, wire strippers, soldering iron, solder, etc.) if you have them.” More info.