Hello everyone.? I am sheltering in home right now, like most of the country.? I would like to bring everyone up to date on what my current thinking is, and how I got to this point, and what and how I think this year will play out.
First, I want to thank everyone for their support.? Please don't disappear, this thing isn't dead yet.
*After conferring with the people that assist with the party during early March, I heard several "let's wait and see" opinions.? I also asked my cousin, who is in the New York area and worked in the medical field her entire career, and she said the same thing.? So I am currently holding off making any final GO/NOGO decision about the Memorial Day weekend star party until the beginning of May. ?
*I am not that optimistic about it at this point.? Besides health issues, there are some serious financial issues for many people.? I do not want to take a chance on anyone exposing themselves to the risk associated with this virus.? If by some large safety margin it makes sense to hold this event, I will announce that during the first week of May.
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*That being said, the registration window will not be open very long.? I must make this decision by the end of the first full week of the month, or I will risk losing all the deposits.? You will need to REGISTER during that week, or I will cancel the event. ?
*IN THAT CASE registrations WILL BE REFUNDABLE, or you could consider donating them, OR APPLYING THEM TO THE SEPTEMBER PARTY.
*I would appreciate an email from everyone NOW if you think you will (or won't) attend, so I have an idea if we will have enough people for a party in May.
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*It would also be helpful to know NOW if you would attend the SEPTEMBER party if you were able to.?
*Whether or not it makes sense to hold THAT party remains to be seen.? I'd hate to cancel both of them off this year, but again, this threat has never existed before, and I hope it never does again.? There is no guarantee that it will be safe to get together in September.? Again, I will need to make a decision no later than the first week of September. ?
*IN THAT CASE registrations WILL BE REFUNDABLE, or you could consider donating them.
*If I do not have enough people REGISTERED by the end of those weeks, I will need to cancel. ?
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If the best thing is to wait until next year, I already have dates picked out.? I hope everyone tries to get some observing in wherever you are.? Feel free to share this info with your local club newsletters or observing groups.
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On a positive note, I am hoping everyone is well, and stays safe while this threat exists.? I wish everyone a Happy Easter /holiday season, and has the chance to connect with friends and family, and enjoys things best they can tomorrow.
Stay tuned everyone... Better days lie ahead.
As always, thank you for your continued support. ?
Phil
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