EXPLORIT Science Center - Weekly Column

When asked about why they join, members of Explorit Science Center offer reasons that are as diverse as the community in which they live.

Sandra Granett feels that Explorit’s programs are valuable, especially by introducing science as an experiential adventure. “Explorit helps develop good life skills whether you study science or not,” Granett said.

Although her grandchildren have moved from the area, long-time supporter Helen Hansen said that Explorit is a necessary organization in our area. A resident of Carmichael, Hansen said “I joined when Explorit was the best science center in the area and I still support them because they are still the best.”

Other members, like Cathy Bratton of Davis, love to take the kids to Explorit. She feels it’s a safe place where they can spend a few minutes or all afternoon. “I love that the kids have control of their own exploration,” said Bratton.

If you’ve ever considered becoming a member of Explorit, now is a great time to join.

Explorit’s annual membership drive kicks off today. Each new or renewing membership automatically enters you into the drawing for one of many great prizes.

This year’s grand prize is a wonderful gift basket donated by Davisville Travel. The basket includes a gift certificate for travel on Princess Cruise Lines. To sweeten the pot, the grand prize also includes a half-case of Korbel champagne.

This year’s second place prize ought to interest many parents in Davis. One lucky winner will receive a certificate for a class of their choice in Explorit’s popular Summer Science Classes program.

Other prizes include tickets to UC Davis Presents performance, a telescope, a hummingbird feeder from the Naturalist, and a gift certificate from Redwood Barn Nursery.

The greater your level of support, the more chances you have of winning prizes like Sacramento Kings merchandise, a backpack from Fleet Feet Sports, gift certificates from Konditorei and The Next Chapter, a family pass aboard the Yolo Shortline Railroad, and more.

Prizes aside, each member will receive many great benefits from free admission to the Center for a year to discounts on Summer Science Classes and the popular Birthday Parties.

Get a chance to travel? Take your Explorit membership with you. Through the Association of Science-Technology Centers, your membership will give you free access to over 250 museums worldwide.

“An Explorit membership is about the cheapest, funnest thing you can do,” said Bratton. “We go to museums all over for free.”

Business can show their support by joining the Business Alliance for Science, which is geared for small businesses.

Join a growing rank of area business who have joined the Business Alliance for Science including AgraQuest, Cable Car Wash, Center City Automotive, Coldwell Banker-Doug Arnold Real Estate, Davis Ace Hardware, Davis Waste Removal Company, Far Western Anthropological Research Group, Garrett Landscaping, McGee Thielen and Purves, Tandem Properties and UC Davis Medical Center.

The membership drive runs through Dec. 20. Prizes will be awarded Dec. 21. You need not be present to win.

Take a moment to show your support and become a member. Already a member? Consider a gift membership for the holidays. Call Explorit at (530) 756-0191 to become a member today.

Explorit Science Center is at 3141 5th Street in East Davis. The current exhibition is “Measure for Measure: Sizing Up Your World.” Public hours are Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sunday from 1 to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.explorit.org or call Explorit at (530) 756-0191.

Explorit Science Center Weekly Column