What a fantastic year our club has had! For starters, I'd like to thank Russel Fern for serving as our last president. Russel led the club to seek an updated web site. If you are reading this you are on the new web site. Thank you Russel! The club also was able to reassess its use of costly storage. In July, the club vacated its storage unit. Frank Crowder, Vic Crowley, and Tim Sullivan also passed the baton of leadership and stepped down from serving on the board. All three of these gentlemen served many terms, in various positions over the years. The club is here due to their service over the years. Thank you Tim, Frank and Vic. We had a great line up of speakers throughout the year. We covered many topics; from astrobiology, to women's contribution to astronomy, astronomy's contribution to ancient civilizations calendars, and lets throw in some dark matter as well!
We have a great lineup of guest speakers in 2020. Author, Jonathan Ward will be back to discuss preparing for a Messier Marathon. Dr Judy Beck, who spoke several years ago, will also be back to speak. Look for us to change up our Star Parties a little bit this coming year. More on that surprise in the near future. Randy Cockrill has volunteered to lead our club member learning effort. We are looking for both mentors and mentees If you want someone to mentor you or guide you to improve your astronomy skill and knowledge, or if you are willing to share your expertise, let Randy know. The board is always looking for fresh ideas to improve the club and make your hobby more enjoyable. Let us know your thoughts and ideas. I'm looking forward to an exciting 2020.
Bill Michaud
President