WOW Update - May 9, 2008

Let the Construction Begin!

As you know, Chatfield Construction, Inc. has been selected to manage the tenant improvements for the much anticipated World of Wonders Science Museum in beautiful Downtown Lodi. Much of April was spent searching out qualified Contractors to perform the tasks outlined in the City approved set of plans secured by Mike Smith Engineering. Chatfield Construction broke ground officially on May 6, 2008 and anticipates the foundation to be laid before the “Cement Mixer” celebration in early June.

Many Lodi Contractors have graciously offered to donate materials and/or labor to help complete the improvements within budget and on schedule. David Shah of California Rock and Ready Mix in Lodi is our featured Contractor this month. Mr. Shah donated all of the aggregate base material to establish the sub-grade for Phase One within the walls of the Downtown Parking Structure’s 9,445 square foot space. California Rock and Ready Mix is also providing approximately 95 yards of sand material to pad the concrete slab which will soon support thousands of excited WOW visitors.

California Rock and Ready Mix does not stand alone. Many other Lodian Contractors support the WOW and are actively participating in Phase One tenant improvements which will be home to the Museum’s exhibits and retail store. BDL Painting, Inc., Pinnell’s Floor Coverings, Inc., Sunridge Electric Construction, Inc., and Trevizo Tile & Stone are a select few who are showing their support by providing materials and labor to dress the Museum’s interior.

Several other Contractors based in Stockton, California and in the outer-lying areas are also showing their support by honorably donating materials and/or labor including: Commercial Specialty, Inc., JD Specialties, and Aspect Glass, Inc. We anticipate several other contractors coming aboard soon and we will proudly list them in our June Newsletter.

Chatfield Construction, Inc. will be chronicling progress of the Museum’s tenant improvements on their website. To view photos of construction, check out the Chatfield Construction photo album.

Cement Mixer - A Hardhat Affair (June 6)

Join us for hors d’oeuvres and fine wines as you tour the future site of the World of Wonders Science Museum in Downtown Lodi. Furniture, fixtures and improvements will be "for sale", with the donor's name permanently displayed on an engraved plaque in the museum. From chairs to an entire exhibit every donation gets us closer to opening the museum in Fall of 2008!

This is a limited opportunity to be a part of the legacy of the WOW where hands-on exhibits and programs stimulate discovery for all ages. Download the flyer.

Tickets are $30 when purchased online or in advance at Danz Jewelers, Beckman Optometry, or by phone at 209.327.6369. $35 at the door.

4th of July at the Lake, An American Festival (July 4)

Presented by the Lodi Rotary Club and the World of Wonders, this will be a family friendly event with 3 legged races, pie eating contests, dunk tanks, activities for the kids, a patriotic decorating wagon contest for kids and some hands-on exhibits. The SF Exploratorium will be providing us with a few of their exhibits too. Food vendors and live music.

North side of Lodi Lake, event starts at 4PM til the fireworks at 9:15 PM. Adults $5 and kids 12 and under are free.

Other Ways to Help

You can now help underwrite a portion of the construction and be recognized as a donor to the World of Wonders Science Museum. Visit the WOW Website for this and other ways to help.

And don't forget, there's still an opportunity to become a Charter Member! Find out more.

Best Wishes,

World of Wonders Science Museum Board