An Honors Event was held at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center on Friday, May 27th. I usually refer to these events as Honor's Nights, but considering the gala was held at 10:00 A.M. in the Center's planetarium, the title Honor's Night doesn't apply.
Tabitha Ricks oversees the Center's volunteer organization and MC'd the event. There were many honors bestowed and recognitions given so let's get right to it.....
The Founder's Recognition Award
It was my pleasure to present the Founder's Recognition Award to James Porter at the Honor's Night of May 27 for his years of service and dedication to the Space Center.
This award merited a full fledged, written speech and James got one. He is a remarkable man whose kindness and leadership has kept the Space Center in steady water through the rough times of demolishing the old center and the construction and opening of the new. Everyone who works with James appreciates his vision and commanding hand as the Space Center continues to new and better things.
Because of James, I know that the Space Center is in the safest, capable hands. He is one of the few people on the planet who has the talent, skill set, knowledge, creativity, education, background, and imagination needed to run an education center like the CMSC.
In addition to being a good friend, I can also say that James is an excellent boss. I work for James as a part time Cassini Flight Director in addition to my full time position at Renaissance Academy and The Space Place. I usually fly the Saturday morning 10:00 A.M. flight along with a few camps when my schedule opens up during the summer months. Both Jon, James, and Bracken (The Space Place) are patient with me and do their best to teach an old dog new tricks :)
Congratulation James and again, thank you for everything you do as we all strive to create a space faring civilization through our work at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center.
Now, the Rest of the Awards and Honors...
1. Welcome to the newest volunteers to join the ranks.
The Space Center Celebrates new volunteers and greatly appreciates their time, talents and enthusiasm. I am proud to see new adult volunteers in the mix. Volunteering at the Space Center isn't just for the young. Volunteering is for the Young at Heart!
2. The Galileo Honored.....
Rylan accepted a Galileo pin from Brylee Perry. He is certified to work both the ship's bridge and the control room.
3. The Phoenix Honored....
Scott presented a Phoenix pin to Audrey and Hayden and offered them both his sincere congratulations on sticking it out to the end despite the many obstacles he placed along their path.
4. The Odyssey Honored.....
Rylan accepted the Odyssey Pin from Natalie. That's two ships in one Honor's Event. Good Job Rylan!
5. The Magellan Honored
Connor was thrilled to present a Magellan pin to Kayla. Both Kayla and Rylan were in and out of their seats accepting awards throughout the event.
6. The Cassini Honored...
Yes, its Rylan again! Rylan was easily the most decorated volunteer of the event. When he sets a goal he sticks with it until the job is done. Oh, and that's Jon doing the presentation. Jon is the Cassini Set Director and all around good guy.
7. The Falcon Honored...
Tabitha had the honor of presenting the very first Falcon pass off pin to Kayla. Kayla has set a high standard for others to follow.
8. Apprentice Level Volunteers
The following earned their Apprentice Level Volunteering Patch: Michael P., Kayla H., Hazel W., Emily W., and Eli E.
9. Starfighter Level Volunteers.
The following earned their Apprentice Level Volunteering Patch: Lexie T., Michael P., Kayla H., Hazel W., Emily W., and Eli E.
10. Hitchhiker Level Volunteer.
Rylan reached the Hitchhiker Volunteer Level at this Honor's Event. Can we just say that Rylan stole the show with Kayla in a close second?
11. Defender of the Universe Volunteer Level...
Earning the Defender of the Universe Award was Hyrum S. and Henson D. Henson was absent.
12. New Trainees...
New Trainees are: Jackson, Rylan, JJ, Kaleen, and Gracelyn. A new trainee is someone learning to become either a paid supervisor or a flight director.
13. A New Member of the Staff Ranks....
JeWell was absent at the event. JeWell is joining the Education Department.
14. A New Assistant Director...
Mr. Porter proudly announced the promotion of Jason to Asst. Director overseeing Planetarium operations. Jason has been working in the planetarium for several months and is quite familiar with all Space Center operations. He will be replacing Dug Pusey who will be retiring at the end of the summer. Congratulations Jason!
15. A Moment of Silence for the Space Center's Newest Time Lord. Scott Wiltbank "Scoot" in the Third Person Please.
Sorry for the black and White photo. The glare of pride and accomplishment coming from Scott was too much for my iphone.
Scott Wiltbank was welcomed into Time Lord Fellowship at the Honor's Event by James Porter. You don't get higher than the Time Lord Years of Service Patch. It trumps all other levels and gives you the right to strut around the Center as if you own it. Trust me, I do :) Congratulations Scott!
16. The 15 Years of Service Award...
Jon Parker was given a somewhat new award, the 15 Years of Service bike reflector accessory award. Bizarre is the first word that comes to mind, but there is a story behind the award having to do with the old staff, my home, a wand and tiara, and a disturbed evening. Ask Jon...
The Rest of the Honor's Event...
After the awards, the staff and volunteers gathered in the planetarium
lobby for 360 degree photo.
Recognize these two old timers? Natalie, Connor, and I hung out in the
foyar talking old times. Natalie is an accomplished author in addition to her job as Odyssey Set Director. Connor is an accomplished organist and spends the school year in North Carolina. He is he Magellan's Set Director.
The staff and volunteers played games in the foyer during the lunch break
Jade and James. Jade is another long time Space Center veteran who works at the Space Center part time in addition to his full time work in IT. We have a good core of older adult staff and volunteers.
Scott led an afternoon workshop on battle tactics gaming - something fun to be offered to the campers this summer camp season.
Volunteer and staff training continue throughout the afternoon. This session was held in the planetarium.
Of course, not everyone was excited about the workshops. Ellie and Hayden hung out in the Cassini Control Room and worked on projects.
Audrey found a nice place to crash in the Cassini Control Room.
Starship Landing Party Security Training was held in the gym
Starship Landing Party Security Training was held in the gym
Starship Landing Party Security Training was held in the gym
Oh, it looks like Jon has arrived and cracked the whip.
"Everyone Back to Work! Camps start next week."
It was time for Bombardment when the Workshops ended.
Jon carefully reviewed the rules.
Setting a proper example for one gets out. Hand up and leave the floor graciously.
Imaginarium Theater
The Week's Best Videos From Around the World Edited for a Gentler Audience
No comments:
Post a Comment