The board of trustees is considering purchasing the property adjacent to the east of GMARS. We need to prepare for the club’s future needs as the membership grows. But we need to have the approval of the membership and to generate the funds before a purchase can be made.

This property is currently owned by Roxanne, our neighbor, who lives across the street on Botkin. Roxanne has said she would give the RAS the first chance to buy this property when she is ready to sell. She has recently expressed her desire to put it on the market and has told several trustees that someone else is interested in it. This land has a house on 5 acres, and it has been recently appraised for $60,000.00.

Many RAS members have been concerned about new owners putting large lights on the property, rendering the telescope field almost useless. No one knows what new neighbors would be like and whether they would be friendly to us. We have one of the best astronomical sites in Southern California. In order to protect our most valued asset, we have to do our best to generate enough funds to buy this land.

We need to find out if the membership is interested in this purchase. In order to do this, I have been instructed by the board of trustees to seek out pledged donations from club members. Many of you remember the first pledge drive to purchase GMARS, and I called each member of the club to ask for donations or loans. This is the model we are going to use, since it worked the first time.

All pledged donations are confidential. Some members are able to give more than others, and the board wants everyone to know that each gift to the club is important. No one but the treasurer, the donor, and I will know how much each person pledges. You can give a donation, a loan, or stock - whichever best suits your finances. And all donations are tax deductible.

Keep in mind this is a non pressure call, and all members are special. Whatever you can give is appreciated, as we are investing in the future of our Riverside Astronomical Society.

Astronomy is not just a hobby; it is a passion, so keep looking up.

Clear Skies,
Glenn Malcolm