Explorit Science Center Weekly ColumnThis page contains the material submitted to the local paper - The Davis Enterprise - for Explorit Science Center's news column published in
that paper on Fridays.
Article for: The Davis Enterprise
Date: July 3, 2003 Author: Vanessa Gregory Contact: Tom Wickersham PLENTY TO DO AT EXPLORIT THIS SUMMER What to do after the Fourth of July? Families looking for fun, affordable entertainment this summer will find it at Explorit Science Center. Explorit's Family Explorations programs are hands-on, educational, and free. From the nocturnal critters that roam through backyards to distant celestial showers, Family Explorations topics help kids and adults discover the wonders of science around them. "Moonlight Madness" Adults and children curious about the night sky will enjoy learning about the moon, constellations, and other celestial bodies. Visitors start the night exploring indoor, hands-on astronomy activities before heading outside for basic stargazing with the help of the Astronomy Club. This free program also includes admission to the exhibition "Count on It: Numbers in Nature." Thursday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Stargazing begins at 8:30 at Explorit. Sponsored by Davis Waste Removal. "Solar Fest" Visitors will learn how to harvest all that summer sunshine by making their own solar cookers. Solar Cookers International will be cooking food throughout the day, showing visitors how to make their own solar cookers, and sharing information about solar cooker use around the world. "Solar Fest" participants will also be able to assemble model cars that run on solar energy. Especially for adults, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., the Northern California Solar Energy Association will lead an informational session about solar panels for private homes. Saturday, Jul. 26, 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Explorit. This free program is sponsored by the California State Consumer Services Agency. "Twilight Nature Walk" What kinds of critters come out at night? Children and adults will enjoy this program about animals and their habitats. Explore hands-on activities and go on an evening nature walk led by members of the Audubon Society. These evenings will also offer a special art workshop presented by artist Sam Tubiolo. This free program includes admission to the exhibition "Count on It: Numbers in Nature." Thursdays, Jul. 31 and Aug. 7, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Explorit. Sponsored by Davis Waste Removal. "Meteor Shower Viewing" Set out a blanket, sit back, and take in the marvelous night sky during the annual Perseid Meteor Shower. Telescopes will be on hand to show off other celestial features as well. This free, relaxed event is great for the entire family. Bring warm clothes, something to sit or lie on, and bug repellant. Flashlights should have a red filter (a paper bag does the trick too). Tuesday, Aug. 12, 8:30 to midnight at Fairfield Elementary just west of Davis at the intersection of Russell Blvd. (Road 32) and Road 96. All these Family Explorations programs are informal, hands-on, and free! For Explorit regulars, Family Explorations is the new, improved program based on the popular Meet the Scientist program. Family Explorations participants won't just meet the scientist. As they point out Ursa Major or pasteurize water with the energy of the sun, parents and kids alike will become the scientists. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Explorit Science Center is at 3141 5th Street in East Davis. The current exhibition is "Count on It: Numbers in Nature," which continues through Sept. 27. 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. |