Hello Davis!

This week on Hello Davis!, host David Abramson speaks with Nelson Hawkins, a regenerative farmer, community food-system advocate, and founder/co-owner of We Grow Farms (also called We Grow Urban Farm) based in West Sacramento. Hawkins combines urban farming, food access, land stewardship, and social equity. Public profiles describe him as focused on building a regenerative local food system that “heals the land and people.” 

We Grow Farms began through the West Sac Urban Farm program. The farm transformed underused land into productive growing space, and it supplies seasonal produce to nearby communities. They grow dozens of varieties of fruits and vegetables.

Hawkins has been recognized for helping expand opportunities for BIPOC and historically underserved farmers. He has also been involved with the Ujamaa Farmer Collective, a Black-led, farmer-centered initiative focused on affordable land access, cooperative economics, and shared resources for farmers. He uses farming not just to grow food, but to grow community, opportunity, and environmental resilience in the Sacramento region.

Hello Davis! welcomes Brett Lee, Davis Downtown Business Association, in conversation with Daryel Dunston, City of Davis' city manager. Daryel brings a unique path to public service, starting as a firefighter and EMT, and going on to lead major initiatives in cities like Oakland and Santa Rosa, tackling challenges from housing and homelessness to emergency response. Now, here in Davis, he’s at the center of how our city plans, grows, and responds to the needs of its community. Today, we talk about what it means to manage a town like Davis, the priorities ahead, and how local government connects with the people it serves. Listen up for Hello Davis! Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. Pacific on KDRT 95.7fm + KDRT.org. Stream anytime via the web. 

This week on Hello Davis!, the Davis Senior Center takes control of the microphone. Maria Lucchesi, Senior Center supervisor, sits down with Mary Lou Carter, a longtime volunteer whose dedication has helped shape the welcoming spirit of the center. In their conversation, Maria and Mary Lou explore the many ways the Senior Center enriches the lives of Davis residents. From social gatherings and lifelong learning opportunities to support services and volunteer programs, the center plays an important role in keeping older adults connected and engaged in the community. With so many programs and stories to tell, this 30-minute interview only begins to touch the highlights.