I've long been stymied as to why the FPOA limits its activities to only the
observatory. If in fact, it is providing an astronomy outreach, I would
think that the FPOA would be interested in all aspects of astronomy at the
park.
I think that many of us have felt "left out" when it comes to amateur
astronomy at the peak. The FPOA is the official cooperating association yet
has essentially done little to promote other astronomy related activites.
Granted, the observatory is open for public viewing a few nights a year. But
I often get the impression that the scope is used for solely private use for
a few select members. And it is for this use privelage that the FPOA is
unwilling by default to expand its outreach to other astronomy related
activities. I may be completely wrong here and if so I apologize in
advance. I'm only expressing an opinion.
I can't understand why the FPOA refuses to take this opportunity by the
horns and use it as a fabulous way to raise funds. In support of my opinion
expressed above, I believe that "our" cooperative association finds it too
burdonsome to supply volunteers to outfit and man a sales kiosk. Is this so?
I feel rather saddened to think that it is.
I think of the state park out on the coast that provides tours to see the
elephant seals. They provide a means for the public to see the seals. Were
it not for them, the public would not be allowed to go out to the beach for
a first hand look. They also run a store and sell all kinds of related
paraphinalia and touristy stuff. They are also staffed full time by
volunteers. Many state parks also have very successful cooperating
associations. Big Basin state park is another that comes to mind where the
association is very active and easily raises funding. They raise enough
money to purchase adjoinging land when it becomes available.
I believe that with funding injected into the FPOA, we could have a world
class astronomy park. The association would have more clout when it comes
to amateur astronomy at the park. I believe that with real active
participation with the park service, many opportunities would open up where
they have previously been denied.
Michelle Stone
Custom Telescopes by Plettstone
http://www.plettstone.com/telescopes