AAA President Message – April

Hi AAA’ers,
Events and activities are starting up this month now that Spring has arrived. The AAA calendar is updated with many of the public stargazing events that are beginning and run past summer, in addition to the activities mentioned below.

Northeast Astronomy Forum (NEAF)
April 6 & 7, the AAA will have a booth at the Northeast Astronomy Forum, the largest exposition for astronomy and space enthusiasts. We are among more than a hundred vendors and astronomy clubs. There are shopping opportunities, presentations, and solar observing—plenty of things to pique our interests. Be sure to stop by our booth to say, “Hello”.

Governance & Annual Meeting
The Board of Directors began the nominating process for filling six Director positions that expire on 31 May. A nominating committee is meeting with many candidates that offer skills, ideas, capabilities, and the energy. You should feel confident that the AAA has passionate and committed members that the business and operations of our association remains healthy, relevant, and vibrant.

It is your privilege and duty as a AAA member to fill the six seats. You have the opportunity to elect the Directors at the Annual AAA Meeting on 15 May.

If you’re interested you can review Article IV In the AAA by-laws.

Classes
Did you know we have two new classes available this Spring. Registration is still open for both of these classes:

Cosmology 101: Major Issues
Astrophotography

If you have general questions about the classes program or of a particular class, email [email protected] for support.

Lectures
This year’s Lecture schedule differs from past years due to AMNH Kaufmann Theater availability. We have two lectures scheduled this month, the second is the final one for of the season.

The AAA Lectures web page provides details for:
12 April – Allyson Sheffield
26 April – David Kaiser (This lecture is designated as the John Marshall Memorial Lecture)

Meetups
The AAA now organized and held meetups as a more immediate and spontaneous way to meet with other members. There have been a few already, some with a specific theme or topic, like the eVscope demonstration by SETI Planetary Scientist Franck Marchis and the Messier Marathon plan and organize meetup, or just meeting with no specific agenda. These ad hoc meetings are announced via email. Want a specific topic, contact [email protected] to discuss further.

Enjoy this month and come out to one of these several events. I hope too see you soon.

Best regards,
Peter