January 2024

Happy New Year!

As we flip the page of the calendar to 2024, my thoughts turn to major events in the life of Skyscrapers in the coming year. The first being the end of the fiscal year on March 31^st. That brings with it an election and budgets. The second event is AstroAssembly, our annual day-long astronomy “conference” and fundraiser in the fall.

Both of these events need members to step forward to assist with making this organization run smoothly and effectively. Within the month, I will be appointing a nominating committee to find candidates willing to contribute a few hours each month. All positions are open: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Junior Trustee, and two members at large. We will be looking for members with appropriate skills and experience, but also with new ideas. Please contact me if you think you may be interested in running for any position. Skyscrapers needs you!

I also envision a standing committee for AstroAssembly. This committee and its sub-committees would ensure that all of the details of this event are addressed and executed in a timely manner. We need more than just a few key people able to run the various aspects. It would be wonderful if we could have several people involved in each of the major areas such as speakers, registration, promotion, food, raffle, etc. Again, I will be soliciting members soon to get started.; contact me if you are interested.

Lastly, I want to thank all of the members who contributed to make 2023 our best year yet. I will not attempt to list names. I am especially grateful to the Trustees and their many helpers for maintaining the grounds and buildings of Seagrave Memorial Observatory, and the variety of astronomical equipment available for our use. My gratitude also goes to numerous individuals who brought astronomy to the public at our observatory open nights, at off-site star parties, and through special events at libraries across the state. Let’s hope for more clear nights in 2024.

Warmest wishes,

Linda