May 7, 2010

Explorit's Response to Troubling Economic Times
By Peter Willson

As a learning center dedicated to interactive science, technology, engineering and math, Explorit is ideally positioned to be an incubator for curiosity, questions and ideas. Over the years, Explorit has served hundreds of thousands of families with new friends joining daily. Over the past three years with the addition of the Second St science center Explorit has evolved to a landmark in Davis that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether it involves nature studies, a science center that promotes hands-on science education or science themed birthday parties.

While the Davis community has embraced Explorit, and everyone has seemed to enjoy the variety of possibilities that Explorit provides, it is no secret that Explorit, like many other museums, is struggling. With a difficult economy, individuals, corporations and foundations are still finding it hard to fund many non-profit organizations

Yet, through all of that, Explorit is entering one of the most exciting times in their pronounced 28-year history. Crisis drives motivation and change and Explorit will most definitely change.

Explorit is in the midst of a revolution that will define what Explorit is and will be in the future.

Lou Ziskind, Executive Director of Explorit Science Center notes that the center needs to continue to adapt to changing demographics and new technologies. Ziskind states, "In short, Explorit must remain relevant while focusing on its mission."

Exciting times are ahead not only for Explorit, but also for our members, our community and the next generation to receive Explorit's brand of hands-on science education.

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Explorit offers a full calendar in May.

• Monday, May 3: Open registration for Summer Science Camp begins. For information about camp openings, please log on to http://www.explorit.org/news/summer-camp-openings


• Monday, May 17: Explorit and the Yolo County Visitors Bureau will co-host a booth at the AMGEN bike Tour of California.


• Wednesday, May 19: Explorit, along with Woodland Healthcare will co-host their monthly booth at the Davis Farmers Market. This month we will feature the subject of 'muscles'.


• Thursday, May 27: Summer Camp Volunteer Orientation. Opportunities available for those 12 and older. If interested, contact Explorit's Volunteer Coordinator


• Friday, June 4: Member Appreciation party. 6:00 - 8:00pm. This party will celebrate the wonderful bond between the community, our members and Explorit.


• Guests will get an advanced look at our newest changing exhibition, "Take Matter Into Your Own Hands." The event is free to members, Please RSVP to Lindsay Poss by May 24 by calling 530.757.4530 or by e-mailing Lindsay@explorit.org

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Explorit Science Center, at 2801 Second Street, has two exhibitions on display: "Move IT! Science in Action and "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 10a.mm - 5p.m. Tuesdays and 11a.m. - 5p.m. Saturday - Sunday. For more information: (530) 756-0191 or www.explorit.org.