Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ''include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ''include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ''include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ''include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
History:-
In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.
In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.
In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.
During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.
Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.
In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.
Mission:-
Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.
Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT
Zoom
Online Event
Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT
Zoom
Online Event
Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT
Zoom
Online Event
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Grover Beach, CA</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Grover Beach, CA</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Grover Beach, CA</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Grover Beach, CA</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Grover Beach, CA</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Exploration Station</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>867 Ramona Ave</div> <div> <span>Grover Beach</span>, <span>CA</span> <span>93433</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://explorationstation.org/" target="_blank">Exploration Station </a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 805-473-1421</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Exploration+Station%2C+867+Ramona+Ave%2C+Grover+Beach%2C+CA+93433" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>History:-</p> <p>In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices and council chambers, as well as the fire station. Well known for their philanthropy and community involvement throughout the South County area, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark promoted the idea of forming a non-profit corporation that would buy the old fire station building and develop a youth facility for the Central Coast.</p> <p>In November 1999, Mr. Clark, as the incorporator, filed 501 (c) (3) papers with the California Secretary of State and appointed officers and members to the Board of Directors, thus creating The South County Family Educational and Cultural Center. As the name implies, the non-profit was created to ensure educational and cultural oriented facilities and programs targeted for youth, primarily in the south part of San Luis Obispo County.</p> <p>In June 2000, the Clarks enabled the corporation to purchase the empty Fire House from the Grover Beach City Council, through a personal loan of $180,000. In addition, the Clarks deeded two nearby parcels of property they owned to the corporation. One parcel would be dedicated for a community library andHistory3 the second for a youth arts/crafts center. These two properties are currently being rented until such time the corporation is ready to develop them.</p> <p>During the next several months following the Fire House purchase, the Board of Directors developed a Mission Statement and goals. The Board proceeded to name the facility The Central Coast Exploration Station (Exploration Station), which was destined to become a facility where local families and visitors could enjoy revolving science exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs and activities designed to meet the educational and cultural needs of youth of all ages.</p> <p>Over the course of the year, a Founding Membership drive raised nearly $50,000, a part time Executive Director position was created, a volunteer program was developed, and the facility was painted and repaired for occupancy. In the spring of 2001, educational programs were introduced targeting youth between the ages of 9 to 13 during after school hours and vacations. To date, over 2,000 young people have attended the programs taught by volunteers in subject areas that are not generally found in school curricula.</p> <p>In the early part of 2002, the City of Grover Beach and the Exploration Station entered into a partnership to create a specific plan that would guide future development of the three properties owned by The Exploration Station, and the adjacent Ramona Garden Park owned by the City. Guided by public workshops and a council appointed advisory committee, the outcome produced a comprehensive plan for a future civic complex offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for community families, visitors, and tourists.</p> <p>Mission:-</p> <p>Connecting our community through science and technology, inspiring people of all ages to enjoy and embrace science in order to better understand our world.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/grover-beach-ca/report/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Grover Beach</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/tea-coffee-tuesdays-the-truth-about-recycling-111224-aarp-ca-h5nqmt3v3vm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TEA-COFFEE-TUESDAYS-THE-TRUTH-ABOUT-RECYCLING">Tea & Coffee Tuesdays: The Truth About Recycling</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/holistic-dementia-care-strategies-for-family-professional-caregivers-qynjbgbcvk3.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLISTIC-DEMENTIA-CARE-STRATEGIES-FOR-FAMILY-CAREGIVERS">Holistic Dementia Care: Strategies for Family & Caregivers</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ca-cooking-demonstration-pastel-de-elote-11142024-cgnkdzg99vv.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-DEMO-MAKE-PASTEL-DE-ELOTE-SWEET-CORN-CAKE">Cooking Demo: Make Pastel de Elote (Sweet Corn Cake)</a></h2> <p class="time">Thursday, Nov 14, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. PT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-GROVERBEACH-CA">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP California Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />California</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CAaarp@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CAaarp@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP California</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-california/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-GROVERBEACH-CA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpcalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPCA" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpca/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Exploration Station - Grover Beach, CA"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices" name="description"/> <meta content="Exploration, Station, Grover, Beach, CA" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/exploration-station-grover-beach-ca.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Exploration Station"/> <meta property="og:description" content="History:- In the late 1990s, the city of Grover Beach built a new fire station leaving an empty building on Ramona Avenue, which had housed the city offices"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="35.1227"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-120.620003"/> ' $title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = '' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Grover Beach, CA</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/grover-beach-ca/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/grover-beach-ca/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118