May 21, 2010

Bringing Cutting-Edge Science From the Lab to the Public
By Keith Banks

In the summer of 2009, Explorit Science Center, in conjunction with seven science centers throughout the United States and funded by the National Science Foundation, embarked on a mission to bring members of the scientific community and their research to the general public. Now, with three presentations completed, Explorit's Portal to the Public program, also known as just "PoP, " is a rousing success with both our visitors and the scientific community.

Dr. Barbara Swedo and Dr. Nicholas Ruppel, both of the Plant Sciences Department at the University of California, Davis, gave a pair of presentations focusing on plant anatomy, or phytotomy, the numerous uses of plants in our everyday lives, and gave Explorit's visitors an up-close look at the microscopic world of chlorophyll. When asked about her reasons for participating in the PoP program, Swedo stated, "One of my immediate career interests is the gap between 'science' and 'society' and how to overcome it. " Ruppel agreed claiming that "the Portal to the Public program is an opportunity that allows me to take what I have learned and pass it on to the public. "

Dr. Ilke Arslan from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Material Science at the University of California, Davis gave visitors to Explorit an exciting look into the world of nanotechnology. Using colorful and informative slides, Arslan illustrated not only how 'nanos' are constructed, but also how scientists are able to interact with such microscopic creations. Excited about the opportunity to share her research, Arslan wanted to participate in PoP because she loves "working with kids and getting them excited about science. " Furthermore, Arslan hoped to encourage young girls, especially minorities, to pursue a career in science.

In an attempt to continue a successful track record, Explorit is looking for more scientists to come and share their knowledge with the general public and to students in our Summer Science Camp. To that end, if you or someone you know works in a scientific field and is interested in participating in the Portal to the Public program please contact Explorit's Program Director, Megan Contreras, at meganc@explorit.org.

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• Explorit is one of three finalists in the Yolo Federal Credit Union "Give A Click" Program. Each quarter the Credit Union awards $1,500 to a deserving non-profit or cooperative within the community. One vote from an IP address is allowed until June 15, and the organization that receives the most online votes will receive the donation. To vote, visit http://www.yolofcu.org/promotions.htm?yolotabs=2. You do not need to sign up for anything or provide any personal information in order to vote. Thank you for your support!

• Friday, June 4 Explorit will host its Annual Member Appreciation Event from 6-8pm for members and special guests at 2801 2nd Street. Please join us for our family-friendly event where you can:

--Experience the new "Take Matter Into Your Own Hands " exhibition

--Meet our Summer Science Camp education staff

--Enjoy pizza courtesy of Woodstock's Pizza and music courtesy of Black Diamond Productions

--Receive a 10% discount on new membership and renewals.

RSVP to lindsay@explorit.org by June 1st with the number of guests who plan on attending.

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Currently, Explorit Science Center has two exhibitions on display: "Move It! Science in Action " and, through May 23: "Wild Planet. " Admission is $4 general, free for teachers and ages 3 and under. The museum is open to school groups by reservation and to the general public from 10 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on Tuesday and 11 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Explorit is at 2801 Second Street, Davis. For more information: (530) 756-0191 or www.explorit.org.