BPAA’s Annual Meeting

The BPAA Annual Meeting was held at the Battle Point Observatory on Saturday January 10 and was attended by 20 members and staff. 

President Frank Petrie called the meeting to order and invited all attendees to introduce themselves. 

Facilities Officer and acting Treasurer Peter Moseley presented a summary of accomplishments and financial results for 2025, and plans and budget for 2026. In particular, we plan to broaden involvement by members utilizing newly installed equipment and capabilities, increase outreach to the community, and engage more students through our STEAM programming. 

Chief Astronomer Chuck Wraith described the new Astrophotography Special Interest Group and invited members to check it out. This is intended as an ongoing low-key opportunity for newcomers and skilled photographers alike to share tips and tricks and enjoy a shared interest. 

Education Officer Erin Howard spoke of several new programs, including the Women in STEM Book Group, “What’s Up in the Sky” monthly programs, regularly scheduled (rather than random) star parties, and Community Hour, where members are invited to choose the topics and serve as guest hosts. Popular continuing programs include Second Saturday Science Talks, Cosmic Conversations, Paint Nights in the Planetarium, and classes such as Astronomy 101, Planet Pioneers, and Galaxy Guild. Check our online calendar for dates. 

Artist-in-Residence Deborah Milton announced our new collaboration with DarkSky-Olympic Peninsula, a new chapter of the Dark Sky International, advocating to preserve the night sky. 

Those in attendance voted unanimously to approve the Board’s proposal to raise membership dues, and also to elect the proposed slate of Directors for 2026. 

 

2026 Membership Dues

Family $50

Individual $35

Junior (16 and under) $15

 

2026 Directors

President — Frank Petrie

Vice President — vacant

Treasurer — Peter Moseley (acting – see note)

Secretary — Joe Mulligan 

Chief Astronomer — Chuck Wraith 

Education Officer — Erin Leigh Howard

Facilities Officer — Peter Moseley

Director At Large — Greg Swanson

Director At Large — John Black 

 

 

After an extended discussion of various topics of interest by attendees, the meeting was adjourned.

Note: Several days after the meeting, Terri Swanson, who has an accounting background, agreed to take on the duties of Treasurer. In accordance with the Bylaws, the Board has approved her appointment.