Doug:
> So, it is hard to be precise at this point, but a best-case estimate is
> that the cost of all this new insurance will somewhat exceed our
> current annual membership dues.
Numbers are good for us. What might that actual digital quantifiable
number be? It's hard to solve vague problems, and somewhat easier to whack
around real numbers.
I strongly suggest contacting the Nuccio Insurance Co. as JVN
recommended. They have been an excellent and cooperative carrier.
The Astronomical League did at one time (and perhaps still does)
carry a more limited policy offering for an effective cost approximately
four times as high, so it's doubtful they'd be useful in this situation.
Michelle's comments raise an interesting thought in my mind, as to
whether the entire approach so far has been a bit too conservative. The
Park Service is indeed trying to expand the observatory well beyond its
natural borders for some reason, while (it appears) maintaining control of
the workshop and residence up there.
Perhaps it might be an interesting tack to propose they vacate
those buildings and make them part of the concession, from which local
astronomers will raise funds (if nothing else by supplying a bunkhouse and
renting out rooms or something).
In other words, what's this "you cover it and we'll use it" bunk?
Seems weird to me, but I'm just mulling.
d