June 2018

I have lots of exciting news to share this month! Firstly, I wish to welcome Tracy Prell as our newest appointed position, “New Member Steward.” In this position, Tracy will act as the first point of contact for new members joining our group, helping them to learn who we are, who to get help from and more about events and opportunities they can be involved with. Along with this, we have a number of members who have graciously volunteered to be paired up with new members as mentors. If you aren’t brand new, but still have questions or need help, get in touch with Tracy and I’m sure she’ll help you too!

Secondly, I want to congratulate junior member Weston Ambrose. Weston has agreed to take on the job of Assistant Librarian. Check out our library at our next meeting. Weston and head librarian Dave Huestis will be there to help you.

We received 51 responses to the recent member survey I sent out. This is a GREAT response rate and I sincerely thank everyone who took the time to provide us with their input. Your leadership team has started the process of review and analysis of the results. I can tell you that one of the things that stuck out was a strong desire for more star parties / observing opportunities and associated learning. To that end, we will be setting up member focused star parties on June 2, June 23, July 7, July 21, August 11 and August 18. Come join us and if you have questions about how your telescope works, want to learn how to find constellations or just want to view the night sky with us, these are a terrific opportunity for you!

By the way, if you are interested in seeing the results from the survey, just let me know. I can provide you with a PDF with all of the answers and comments.

Our June meeting on Saturday the 9^th, 7pm features a talk about a recent trip that Jim Hendrickson and Francine Jackson took to the Frank Kovac Planetarium and will also feature a pot luck style dessert buffet.

In July, we are working on plans for a special “Mars Party” on Saturday, July 28 in honor of the very close approach of Mars this year.

If you haven’t been to Seagrave Observatory for a while, check it out. The Trustees have been working hard and our grounds look great! Thank you!

This year, we have a close approach of Mars this summer and great views to come of Saturn and Jupiter. Please come out to view them and join us for some of the fun activities we have in store!