I found this short video showing someone starting an old Mac Plus with a Scuzzy Drive.  These are the computers we opened with on the first starship simulator the USS Voyager back in November 1990.   You old timers who worked and volunteering back in the day nearly 34 years ago will remember these all too well.  ​

​     Today's staff and volunteers should be impressed with how far we've come in over 3 decades.  Something to note, the computers had 5 in screens and displayed in black and white only.  These were the portable computers of their day.  Each had a personality of its own.  Some would start nicely, others had to be persuaded gently, while others still needed a good slap on the side to get the hard drive to spin and load Hypercard.  

     In the video below you'll see the startup of an original Mack Plus.  I remember those sounds so well. Hearing that clicking meant the drive was working :).  Another treat in this video is the printer. He is going to print something on an old Image Writer just like the one you see we had on the bridge pictured above. It was LOUD so everyone knew when a message was coming in from Starbase 12. 
​     And without further delay, watch the start up sequence of the original Voyager computers.

     Bracken Funk's new mission "Preserved" was told for the first time on June 27th at The Space Place in Lehi, Utah as a practice mission.  Practice missions are like dress rehearsals. Crewing the mission were several former and current Voyager Club members who served and serve on the Voyager. Jackson was the captain.  
     Preserved is a five hour mission and, after a few modifications from information learned during the practice missions, will be ready to be used for an upcoming summer camp and for private group missions.  

     The mission was reviewed well by the crew. Several suggestions were given to improve timing, visuals, and acting rolls. 
I stopped by The Space Place to see how the mission was progressing.  I was happy to see the crew were all current and former Voyager Club members from Renaissance and all were former students of mine. 
     I went onto the Voyager's Bridge to snap a few pictures of the crew in action (above) and a couple minutes of video.       

     The Space Center's Voyager Club met on June 29th for its monthly meeting.  Bingo for goodies starting things off from 8:00 - 8:30 A.M. Bingo is our way of motivating members to get to the meeting on time.  Amberly called the meeting to order at 8:30 A.M.    

     New Voyager Explorers and Volunteers were called to the front to introduce themselves.  As you can see, the Space Center has been busy onboarding new club members from the applicant waiting list.  Our new Voyagers come from all over Utah County. 
       After new members were introduced, Amberly turned the rest of the meeting over to me for the lesson.  Because we had so many new members present, I took some time to review the club's ranking and ID system.  Afterwards, we discussed how effective Disney is at transitioning park visitors from the real world and onto the rides through a series of transitions as they move through the lines to board the rides.  We would like to take the lessons learned from Disney and use some of the ideas to make a more effective transition from the main Space Center lobby to the Starbase below.  We discussed visuals, sound effects, PA announcements, and character appearances.  We watched a YouTube showing park visitors working their way through the line at Disneyland's Star Tours ride and noted how effective the PA announcements were at creating the illusion of being at a starbase preparing to board a transit. 
        I showed several examples of PA announcements I had Chat GPT write, then asked the Voyagers to pair up and write a few of their own for Starbase Williamson. They did an excellent job.  Now we need to find a way to incorporate the announcements into something usable at The Space Center.        

     All Voyager Club meetings end with a raffle drawing for prizes.  The following items were given away at the meeting; a full desk mouse pad with phone charger and led lights, a drone with video camera, an LED frisbee, gift cards to Kneaders, Amazon, and Swig, planetarium tickets, and t-shirts.  
     Thank you to all our Volunteers and Explorers for attending.  News on July's meeting will be posted to the club's Google Classroom. 

     Lindsey Hatch received the rank of One Star Governor General on Friday.  There aren't many Gov. Generals so Lindsey joins a small, elite club of Space Center greats.  Her rank badge shows that she is in her 13th year as a volunteer / staff member.  Her ID number shows her first mission as a volunteer was on the original Odyssey on July 31, 2012.  She flew the old Odyssey's last mission before it was demolished during the Space Center's refit spanning the fall and winter of 2012-2013.  Lindsey is an Odyssey Flight Director and is preparing to student teach at Central Elementary in the Fall of this year.  
      "What's been the highlight of your day so far?" is her copyrighted greeting; so be prepared to give her an answers if you see her coming toward you.    

     The Space Center had its first Gastronomic  Discharge (vomit) of the summer camp season last week.  The Galileo had the honors and the horrible duty of clean up.  To commemorate the event, I brought "vomitcakes" to share with the staff and volunteers (no, it wasn't planned and yes, I brought them on the same day).  The vomitcakes are created using the following procedure.
1.   Purchase cupcakes from your local supermarket. 
2.  Place them on the backseat.
3.  Leave them in the hot sun for an hour or so.
4.  As you drive to the Space Center, step on your brakes abruptly thus causing the cupcakes to fly onto the floorboard of the car - upside down. 

     And there you have it - Vomitcakes.   
     The cakes were enjoyed by the staff and volunteers so there was no waste.  
     Finally, a reminder that no animals were harmed in the creation of the cakes.  

Mr. Williamson    

Celebrating Excellence: Honor's Night at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center

     On June 4, the Christa McAuliffe Space Center in Pleasant Grove hosted its biannual Honor's Night, an event dedicated to recognizing the outstanding contributions of its volunteers and staff. Named in honor of Christa McAuliffe, America’s Teacher in Space, the Space Center continues her legacy by fostering education and exploration, guided by the mission statement: "To Create a Spacefaring Civilization."
     Honor's Night is a testament to the hard work and dedication of nearly 100 volunteers and dozen's of staff who form the backbone of the Space Center’s operations. These individuals commit countless hours to ensure the success of the Center’s educational programs and simulations, helping to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts and explorers.

Celebrating Years of Service and Achievement

     Awards were presented in two primary categories: Years of Service and Work Achievements. Volunteers and staff were recognized for their continued commitment to the Space Center, with milestones celebrated at various intervals. These awards acknowledge the invaluable experience and dedication of long-term volunteers and staff, whose passion and expertise contribute significantly to the Center’s mission.
     In addition to the service awards, work achievements were also highlighted. These awards celebrate the exceptional contributions made by individuals in their respective roles, acknowledging their creativity, leadership, and impact on the Center’s projects and programs. This year’s honorees included those who have demonstrated innovative approaches to education and have significantly enhanced the Center’s offerings.

Excellence in Starship Simulations

     A unique aspect of the Christa McAuliffe Space Center is its six Starship Simulators, where volunteers and staff work together to create immersive, educational experiences. These simulations are crucial in teaching participants about space exploration, teamwork, and problem-solving. During Honor's Night, specific achievements and passes in these simulators were recognized, celebrating those who excel in creating engaging and realistic space missions.
     The simulators—each with its distinct narrative and educational objectives—rely heavily on the creativity and dedication of the volunteers. Recognition in this category is particularly prestigious, as it highlights the individuals who go above and beyond to bring these simulations to life, ensuring a memorable and educational experience for all participants.

Looking Ahead

     As the evening drew to a close, the mood in the planetarium was filled with a sense of accomplishment and inspiration. The honorees of the night exemplify the values of dedication, innovation, and passion for space exploration and experiential education. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to all, encouraging continued excellence in pursuit of the Space Center’s mission.
     The Christa McAuliffe Space Center looks forward to the future with optimism and excitement, ready to build on the successes celebrated during Honor's Night. With the support of its volunteers and staff, the Center continues to be a beacon of education and exploration, honoring the legacy of Christa McAuliffe and inspiring the spacefarers of tomorrow.

     Marcus Porter was presented with the Starship Odyssey's highest award, the Achievement Pin, by Mr. Porter. He is entitled to wear it proudly on his lanyard as a testament to the time spent learning the Odyssey's temperament and how to persuade the simulator to perform as it should whether it wants to or not.  He has gained the Odyssey's respect and the gratitude of the ship's Set Director, Mitch.    

     Marcus was called back up to front to receive the Magellan's Achievement Pin along with Taylee Wilcox.  Magellan Supreme Command and Overloard, Tyler, made the presentation.  In his recognition speech, Tyler spoke on and on about the position the Magellan plays in the six ship fleet stationed at Starbase Williamson.  He thanked the other five starships for the supportive role they play in the Magellan's success.  The Magellan's Supervisors stood to applause at the conclusion of his speech and warmly welcomed Marcus and Taylee into the ranks of their fellow Magellan Award winners. 
​     I'm sure I'll be informed if there are any errors in my recollection of the presentation.  Sometimes my imagination gets the best of me! 

     Hyrum was unable to attend the event to receive his Cassini Achievement Pin so poor Cassini Set Director Ellie lost her opportunity to rise to the occasion and expound on the Cassini and its importance to the six ship fleet. However, that didn't stop her from standing and shouting "God Bless the Cassini and All Who Sail in Her!"  I'm told after retaking her seat in the Planetarium she was heard whispering "We can kick the Magellan's trash any day!"     

     Amberly was called to the front to receive the Phoenix's Achievement Pin from Set Director Scott.  Scott continued in Silver's soft spoken manner and congratulated her on a job well done. He reminder her that those who do great things never need to shout them from the rooftops.  Everyone just knows....... they just know. 

     It was the Galileo's turn next.  I admire Brylee for her humility.  She is both the Galileo Set Director AND the planetarium set director.  She had it in her power to overwhelm the gathering with the music, lights, and majesty of the planetarium as she welcome Thomas to the front to receive a Galileo Achievement Pin, but she didn't.  Thomas received the pin graciously and shook Brylee's hand.  Before taking their seats, Brylee asked those present to remember the great ships of the Spanish Armada and the result of their skirmish with Elizabeth's smaller ships in the English Channel.  Most were confused by her statement and its relevance to the Honor's event, but others were seen smiling and nodding their heads, full aware of the meaning and intent of her words.    

     Oliver was not in attendance to receive his Falcon Achievement Pin.  I overheard someone say he had taken the ship out to the Altoid Sector to procure a large shipment of breath mints which had somehow and mysteriously fallen out of the cargo port of a cargo transport ship.  The Falcon never, and I mean never, misses an opportunity to make a profit.    

     Several Voyager Volunteers were honored for either serving as a volunteer for 1 year or reaching 100 hours of volunteer service.  They were given an Apprentice Star fighter patch (seen attached to their foreheads).  Marcus was out of breath by this time in the evening with all that up and down the planetarium stairs.  

     Four Voyagers were honored for having reached the 500 volunteer hours mark and inducted into the Hitchhiker Hall of Fame.  Congratulations!  

     Becoming a Defender of the Universe is difficult. It requires 1000 volunteer hours at the Space Center.  While most teens whould say, "Ain't Got time for That!" these three outstanding Voyagers and Staff are shining examples of what Gen Z'ers can do if they will just do it!  Remember, GenZ is the first generation born not knowing life without the internet.  Some say they never put down their phones.  Well it is obviously apparent that not all of them are like that and I have three examples right here to prove it! 

     Kayden and Aaron were both inducted into the Journeyman Order for having finished 5 years of service to the Space Center.  Five Years!  That is amazing.  Congratulations to you both and thank you!  Many of you remember them as small younglings in their black Voyager Club shirts, barely tall enough to see over the Control Room counters.  Now look at them all grown up, proud, and confident in their abilities.  

     Space Center Director James Porter was honored at Honor's Night for serving as Center Director for 10 years.  Now many of us know that Mr. Porter has more years of Space Center service in his portfolio when you take into account the time he spent as a volunteer and staff member back in the day..... and I mean way back in the day.... when Mr. Williamson had a full head of hair and didn't walk with an old man's (give me something to hold onto) walk.  
     Mr. Porter was born for this job.  There is no one who could do it better and I should know because I held the position for 23 years.  As I said in the presentation, Mr. Porter is a master at multitasking. That, along with his sarcastic wit, love of what we do at the Space Center, and his willingness to slap on any costume and muck right in with everyone else, has kept him sane through times that would have put many of us in the looney bin.  Congratulations Mr. Porter! 
     Jon Parker prepared a short video tribute for the occasion.

     Although Silver Perry retired some time ago, this Honor's Night was the first opportunity the Space Center community had to officially honor him.  This blog wrote a tribute to Silver at his official retirement and I urge you to go back and read it do you can learn more about this outstanding gentleman.  
     Silver was The Troubadour's first officially proclaimed Time Lord.  You'll discover the reason why when you watch the short video tribute to Silver below.  Thank you Silver for many years of dedicated service and friendship to everyone at the Space Center.  You are very much missed. and what better tribute is there than to say that to an absent comrade.  

     The June Honor's Night was also a time to celebrate the new hires. These are people who either left the Voyager Volunteers to become paid staff or who were given different responsibilities.  

      One of those in the new hires lineup is Audrey.  Congratulations Audrey on earning the Navy Blues and becoming an official Phoenix Flight Director!  You worked long and hard to sit in that chair and are so deserving. 

Captain Audrey stands tall and proud,
Her spirit fierce, her voice unbowed.
Eyes like comets, burning bright,
She steps aboard, prepared for flight.

      And with those words said, Audrey raised her right hand and took the Flight Director's Oath, administered by the Phoenix Set Director Scott.  

     And we are NOT finished talking about Audrey for there was one more honor given to Audrey at Honor's Night; the highly coveted Space Pillowcase from the House of Houston. Congratulations Audrey, on receiving the exquisitely hand-sewn space pillowcase crafted by Admiral Lorraine Houston. This gift, woven with the care and precision that only Admiral Houston can give, signifies one of the highest honors in Space Center Service. The pillowcase reflects the deep respect and admiration the Admiral and your colleagues at the Space Center hold for you. May this pillowcase serve as a constant reminder of your achievements and the high esteem in which you are held by your peers and mentors. Safe travels and continued success on your stellar journeys aboard the Phoenix.

     On June 7th several of the Voyager Volunteers at The Space Place in Lehi held a Camp Training Camp. It was a day long event with food, activates and classes; all designed to prepare them for the several summer space edventure camps to come.  Of course I arrived just as lunch was being served. I always time my appearances around good food!  
     Before lunch the Voyagers trained on several aspects of acting. That included security training for away missions.  Megan Warner conducted the training exercises in the gym. As you can see in the photo below, the tables were set up in standard Away Mission style.  I'm happy to report that no Voyagers were injured in this live fire training.  When I say "live fire" I mean the phasers used at The Space Place are laser tag phasers so there is no doubt when they are hit.  

     After lunch the training continued with more classes and then games.  I enjoyed watching Megan run the Voyagers through correct bridge doctoring techniques. By the end of the workshop, each cadet received a Starfleet Medical EMT certificate with an emphasis on bumps, bruises, broken bones, bleeding, severe bleeding, concussions, and of course the proper treatment of phaser burns from enemy fire.     

     It was a fun Voyager Volunteer Day Camp.  The Voyagers were ready for the season's first camp held on June 10th. 

     The summer camp staff at The Space Place consists of Bracken Funk, director.  Megan and Livy, as 2nd chair and bridge and then others on the paid staff who come as needed.  My job is to offer support when needed and provide goodies upon arrival. Megan Warner keeps the Voyagers well trained and working to standards so the ship operates as a well oiled piece of machinery.  Megan does the same at the Discovery Space Center at American Heritage School.  

     The Nighthawk returned to Renaissance Academy and the Space Place at the beginning of June. For a couple years it was stored in Matt Long's large equipment storage warehouse where Megan Warner worked on its refurbishment.  The Space Place's Voyagers had an opportunity to tour the small starship during their Summer Camp Training Day Camp. 
     Megan Warner is the Nighthawk's Set Director and is planning on reopening the ship by summer's end.  The Nighthawk will do camps, private missions, and will be used as a Voyager Volunteers flight director training ship.  
     The Nighthawk was a gift to Renaissance Academy from our good friends at Mission.io (formerly InfiniD Learning). They created the ship for the Discovery Space Center which use to operate from StoneGate Event Center in Pleasant Grove. USSynthetic was the ship's sponsor at the time. 

     The Space Center's longest summer camp is The Officer's Camp.  The first was held on June 12.  The camp starts at 8:30 A.M. and end at 8:30 P.M.  The campers bring their own lunch. A pizza supper is provided by The Space Center.  From 9:00 - 1:30 ish the campers revolve between several different workshop and activities: Security Training, Battle Sim, Team Building, and a Planetarium Show.  

     At 1:30 P.M. the campers return to the gym to be divided up for their long missions in the Space Center's 6 simulators.  Several move Officer Camps will be offered this summer.  Boy are they a lot of work, but both the campers, staff, and volunteers enjoy them. 

     The StageWorks Department at the Space Center held its first bi-weekly Blender class on Saturday, June 15.  Jack H. was the instructor for class 1.  Brian Dean was the assistant.  Jack and Brian Dean will alternate classes with each teaching 1 per month and assisting once per month. That way each class has two experienced Blender creators to help with questions. 
     Jack's class objective was to teach the Voyagers how to create a tactical card in Blender.  The bi-weekly class runs from 11:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. in Central School's computer lab.  I want to thank Jack and Brian Dean for doing an excellent job.  I also want to thank Mitch Foote for attending and helping with questions.  Mitch is the Odyssey's Set Director and StageWorks's Journeyman Coach. 
      It is NEVER too late to jump in on this class.  Contact me if you're interested.  [email protected]  

     ​In our quiet town of Pleasant Grove, the annual Fireman's Breakfast fundraiser was always a big deal. The event was a beloved tradition where townsfolk gathered to support their local heroes and enjoy a hearty meal. This year, however, the fundraiser was destined to go down in history, and not for the reasons anyone expected.
     James Porter, the enthusiastic director of the Space Center, had heard about the legendary spread at the Fireman's Breakfast. Bacon, eggs, pancakes, – you name it, they served it. He had an idea that would boost staff morale and strengthen community ties: a team-building breakfast outing. He rallied the entire Space Center staff and told them to be there with a hearty appetite at 7:30 A.M. last Saturday.
     The Space Center team arrived in full force, like an army of ravenous astronauts ready to conquer a cosmic buffet. They marched into the station carrying a banner that read, "We Put the 'Appetite' in 'Appetite for Exploration.'"
     The Pleasant Grove Fire Department volunteers, thrilled by the turnout, soon realized they were in over their heads. The Space Center staff descended upon the tables with the precision of a well-coordinated space mission. Pancakes were stacked higher than skyscrapers, bacon strips vanished like shooting stars, and the egg supply was scrambled into oblivion.
     James Porter led the charge, armed with a fork in one hand and a knife in the other. "To infinity and beyond!" he shouted, diving into a plate of maple syrup drenched pancakes. His "To Eat or Die" call turned a simple breakfast into a Space Center competition.  Who could pile their plates the highest.
     Fire Chief McKenna watched in horror as the food supplies dwindled. He had never seen anything like it. The firefighters worked frantically, trying to keep up with the demand, but it was like trying to extinguish a wildfire with a garden hose.
    "Chief, we're out of eggs!" yelled one volunteer.
     "We're down to our last gallon of syrup!" cried another. Desperation set in. Chief McKenna, a man known for his calm under pressure, decided it was time to take drastic action. He grabbed a bullhorn and addressed the Space Center staff. "Attention, Space Center crew! You are consuming food at an unprecedented rate. If you do not cease immediately, we will be forced to deploy... the hoses!"
     There was a moment of stunned silence. The Space Center staff paused, mid-bite, to consider the implications of this threat. James Porter, realizing the gravity of the situation, stood up, a half-eaten pancake in hand and syrup covering his chin. "Alright, team," he said, "we've achieved our mission objectives. It's time to retreat before we cause an intergalactic incident."
      Reluctantly, the Space Center staff put down their forks and began to retreat, casting longing glances back at the buffet tables. As they filed out of the fire station, Chief McKenna breathed a sigh of relief. "Well," he said to his volunteers, "that was a close one. Next year, we might need to set some ground rules. And rule number one, NO Space Center :)"

     After the fiasco at the Fire Station, the Space Center's staff and volunteers assembled at the Space Center for friendly game of kickball with the hope of burning off some of the thousands of calories consumed in the morning's feast. I was present to see some of the game.  It was good to see the staff and volunteers in their civilian clothes and see them as they act and look as they do in the real world and boy were my eyes opened. 
     There was a jab in the ribs, a few intentional trips of the runners as they rounded the bases, several back and forth bouts of trash talking, one threat of a law suit, and a couple exaggerated injures. It was entertaining to watch to say the least. In the end they all came together as friends and co-workers and declared that more kickball was needed to "bring the staff and volunteers together".   A friendly reminder to everyone wanting to attend the next game; I recommend shin guards, elbow pads, helmets, and a thick hide over your emotions.
     Editor's Note:  The reporter who covered the kickball game is known for exaggerating and embellishing his stores.  Other eyewitnesses to the kickball game report a very friendly game full of love, encouragement, and camaraderie.  We are told both teams hugged each other at game's end.  Others said that Jon Parker's team even offered to kick left footed and throw with their left arms to help the opposing team.  The Troubadour believes that the true story of the Kickball game may never be known.  

     In next week's Troubadour post..
        1.  After 16 Years, Central's Secretary Retires with Honors from the Space Center
       2.  Honors Night at the Space Center
       3.  Tyler Teaches Another Acting 101 Course 

     On June 3, 2024, the Christa McAuliffe Space Center kicked off its inaugural summer space camp, providing an exciting and immersive experience for young cadets. The day-long camp, running from 8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M., offered cadets the opportunity to engage in two intensive space missions using the Center's state-of-the-art starship simulators.
     The camp started with a 2.5-hour mission. After a brief lunch break from 11:30 A.M. to noon, they embarked on a more extended 5-hour mission. The missions were conducted in the Center's six advanced simulators: the Magellan, Falcon, Cassini, Galileo, Odyssey, and Phoenix. Each simulator provided a unique setting and set of challenges, offering a diverse range of experiences and scenarios for the cadets.
     The Christa McAuliffe Space Center's mission is to inspire and educate by fostering a love of space and blending it with the science fiction aspects of space travel. This is achieved through missions that emphasize problem-solving and teamwork, alongside teaching space science and social science through historical contexts.
     By participating in these missions, cadets develop essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership. The space center's approach aims to prepare the next generation for a future where space travel and exploration are integral parts of our civilization.
     The success of this first summer space camp marks the beginning of a fun summer filled with educational experiences at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center, promising to ignite the imaginations and ambitions of young space enthusiasts for years to come.
     The short video below has pictures from the first camp.  Enjoy.

     On June 5th the Christa McAuliffe Space Center conducted a full day Unity development camp for students throughout the Alpine School District.  The class was organized and taught by Dave Stevens, a volunteer at the Space Center.  Dave is an employee of Meta and works as a Unity software developer.   
     The camp was taught in Central Elementary School's computer lab.  I stopped in to watch portions of the camp and was impressed with how well Dave had organized the camp and how well the students were responding to the software.  What impressed me most were the student presentations in the Space Center's planetarium at the end of the camp.  Parents were invited to come look at what their children learned and produced. 
    Volunteerism is a foundational pillar of the Space Center.  It is because of volunteers like Dave Stevens, who give up many many hours of their time and talents, that the Center can bring programs like the Unity Camp to Utah's students. 
     Please take a minute to see the camp in action by watching the video below.         

     Starfleet Admiral Jon Parker was a man known for his strategic mind, commanding presence, and, recently, his increasingly unkempt hair. The admiral’s need for a haircut had become the talk of Starbase Williamson, and it was decided that the best way to handle the situation was to let the Voyager cadets decide his new look.
     In the Staff Lounge, several jars were set up, each representing a different hairstyle. The options ranged from the trendy man bun to the somewhat ominous "shorter than Admiral Porter's." The cadets, eager to assert their sense of style and perhaps indulge in a bit of fun, voted by placing their well-earned achievement medallions into the jars.
      Over the next week, the jars filled steadily. "Man bun" received a respectable number of votes, but "shorter than Admiral Porter's" quickly took the lead. The cadets were abuzz with excitement as the final count neared. When the day of reckoning arrived, it was clear: Admiral Parker was in for the shortest haircut Starbase Williamson had ever seen.
     When Admiral Parker learned the results, he attempted to argue for a recount. He even tried bribing some of the cadets with extra replicator rations. But rules were rules, and the decision was final. With a grim look on his face, Parker was escorted—some might say dragged—kicking and screaming to the Starbase barbershop.
     The barbershop was a place usually filled with camaraderie and light-hearted banter, but today it echoed with the admiral’s protests. "Not shorter than Porter’s! Anything but that!" he pleaded. But the cadets stood firm, holding up the jar overflowing with medallions as irrefutable evidence of their decision.
      After what felt like an eternity (but was actually just a standard 20-minute haircut), Admiral Parker emerged a changed man. His once unruly hair was now a mere shadow of its former self, cropped closer than ever before. The sight was met with a mix of stifled giggles and sympathetic nods.
     Feeling utterly exposed, Admiral Parker retreated to his quarters, vowing not to show his face until his hair grew back. He issued strict orders that all meals be delivered to his door, and any communication was to be done via holo-messages only. 
     "Poor Admiral Parker," the crew would whisper as they passed his quarters, picturing him peeking out from behind the door just long enough to grab his meal tray. And so, Starbase Williamson carried on, with Admiral Parker's haircut serving as a humorous reminder that even the highest-ranking officers are not immune to the whims of the Voyager cadets.

Hello Voyagers!
     Wes was recently released from his position as FD on the Magellan to serve an LDS mission to Texas.  A few weeks ago he sent the following email.  In the email Wes comments on the power of the Space Center in the lives of many who both attend private missions and camps, and those who volunteer and work at the Center.  
     Today's Space Center is a testament to those who came before and a tribute to those who currently man the planetarium and the six starships. It is a privilege for me to work with two great men, Mr. Porter and Mr. Parker as the Space Center's Leadership Team.  I've seen the love they have toward the Space Center and its mission and the caring dedication, respect and fondness they have towards the staff and volunteers. I'm amazed at how skillfully Mr. Porter manages every aspect of the Space Center. It's like he's tending a dozen fires all at once, some getting put out, some smoldering and others just starting. If you want to see a master at work, just spend the day watching him.  Under the skillful direction of Mr. Porter, the Space Center made the "giant leap" forward from its original cobbled together roots into the magical place it is today. 
     Thank you Wes for taking the time to share your feelings and thoughts on what the Center has meant to you.  We are all with you in spirit and wish you well.  We will see you soon.

Ad Astra!
Mr. Williamson     


Hey Mr. Williamson, remember me? Hopefully you haven't forgotten yet, it has only been 2.5 months!! It is me, Wes! It has been a while, hasn't it?
     I stumbled upon a facebook post you made about the Blog, and decided to take a look through it while I am out here in Texas. I've been inspired to say a few words about what the Space Center has been to and meant to me. 
     I want to start by saying first off how grateful I am for the wonderful place that has been created. The walls of the Space Center are so much more than simple walls. They are barriers that are broken by the magic of storytelling, every day we fly them. They are walls which contain countless dreams, both already dreamt and still to be, which will come to fruition and make great changes in this world. The walls of the Space Center are a home. What they contain is a family, and a life that we can find nowhere else. The life that the Space Center allows someone to live is nearly unimaginable to those who haven't been a part of it. Infinite and endless hallways of imagination, creativity and joy unfold within moments of being there. I have tried to describe it to those I meet, but it's impossible. To put it simply, the Space Center is incredible.
     As I've been in my temporary, yet still expansive, leave from the Space Center, I have been able to reflect on the effect it has had on me. Those walls covered in stars, panels and all forms of lights have molded me into who I am today, and trust have prepared me to enter in to the life I must live. The experiences I've had at the Space Center, 5.5 years full, have given me wings to fly into the world, ready to bring change as the Space Center has brought to me.  It seems a little silly, thinking about how a space ship simulator can change lives, but I truly am living proof that it can! These simulators have seen my highs and my lows, comforted me when I've needed it and provided much needed solace when the outside world has gotten to me.
     What's really incredible, however, is the change the CMSC ignites in others. While I'm just one of many who has been refined by this program,  however I truly know that everyone who enters those sacred halls leaves changed. They take some of the magic with them, and forever it impacts their life. We see hundreds and thousands of children walk in as scared, nervous, anti-social, shy students, and when they walk out they are upright confident Captains who've conquered the Stars, and who are ready to do so much more in that. We've helped these kids realize thier potential, and oftentimes they don't even realize it because they're having too much fun running away from Klingons!
     I'm sure these are words you've heard many times, but I want to express the appreciation that I have for this program, so I can be another witness to the magic and discipline of wonder the program you created has instilled in so many. I hope all the volunteers know what a wonderful opportunity they have to be there, even if they can't see it. I used to see at as a fun little Space ship game, however in time I saw what truly lies behind it all. I know anyone who knows the program or who waits will see it too. It won't always be just simulators. 
     Thank you for all the blog posts! It makes me feel not totally out of the loop with the goings-on there, and makes me equally excited to return. While I'm grateful to be in Houston near a different type of "Space Center," I'll always be fond of the one I can call home nestled in Pleasant Grove. I anxiously await the day I return!!

As always,
Ad Astra Per Aspera

      Even on family vacations I always find things I want for the Space Centers.  While shopping in Keystone, in the Black Hills of South Dakota last week, I heard my name, turned around, and saw Enoch wearing this hat.  Immediately my mind shifted into Space Center mode.  That hat was the perfect costume piece for ............ I won't say what I thought. I'm asking what you're thinking.  What is the first Space Center thing that pops into your head when you see it? 
     Did I buy it?  I wish I did, but the price on that hat was truly astronomical :)