The Space Center Staff and Interns Feast Italian Style. Our Staff and Intern Trip to Italy, The Video... Imaginarium Theater

The Great Pasta Alignment: Mission Log, Stardate December 30, 2026

                      Shovel it in as fast as you can; the Inters were coming for that last piece

After completing another successful year at the Space Center—a year packed with navigating star shows and laser extravaganzas in the planetarium, saving the universe for mankind during starship simulations, and surviving the long hours of summer space camps and endless school field trips—the staff and interns needed some good R and R planetside.  Mr. Porter had the perfect idea: a trip to Italy, or as close to Italy as we could get on the Space Center's budget.  

We required real Italian food, the kind my Italian ancestors (The Vercellios) would recognize as authentic. Something with significantly more "Mama Mia!" than your typical Olive Garden meal!

Naturally, we set course for MidiCi in Orem. Our mission objective: a tactical assault on an Italian feast. We had orders from Mr. Porter that we were not to embarrass him on this outing with our staff room eating habits. The owner of the restaurant was his neighbor. We handled ourselves better than expected (except for Matt Ricks, as you'll see in the video). 

The meal was a study in contrasts. On one side of the room, the more senior staff—veterans of a thousand missions into deep space, who approached the feast with true gusto. The food was eaten with a definite purpose, but politely (except for Matt Ricks).  

And then, there were the interns....

Tabitha's beloved interns—the bright-eyed volunteers who, with a stroke of administrative sprezzatura (that uniquely Italian art of making difficult things look easy), were tactically deployed to a second, auxiliary table, away from the restaurant's normal lunch crowd.  They were given extra napkins for spillage and wet wipes for tomato sauce drippage. The "Little Dipper" table would have been an appropriate name if I had thought of it while I was filming..... 

While the senior staff discussed the fine blends of cheeses and the unique taste of wood fire on dough, the intern table seemed locked in mortal combat over who would get the final slice of pepperoni pizza. It is crucial, after all, to learn the chain of command early in one’s Space Center career.

Ultimately, our mission to Little Italy was a gastronomic success. We toasted a stellar year of education and exploration, with bellies full and morale high. Best of all, Mr. Porter was able to walk away from the restaurant without offering apologies to anyone.  He was a content administrator.

Bellissima. 

Board Games....Emphasis on Bored....

I admire their patience, focus, sportsmanship, kindness, and camaraderie 

even in the face of loss 

After lunch, the satisfied Luncheonaries settled in for a long winter's nap at the Space Center, playing Bored games (I know that's not the correct spelling, but I'm making a personal point). I didn't stay due to my aversion to situations that bring out a side of me I do my best to keep hidden from public view. 

1.  I don't have the patience to learn new games.  This old horse doesn't learn new tricks.

2.  I hate losing, I detest losing, losing isn't in the fabric of my being, and I always lose Bored games because I don't concentrate long enough to learn the rules and strategies. I learned my lesson to stay away from Bored games several years ago after my third trip to the "Jail" in Monopoly.  The game came to an abrupt end after it somehow landed on the floor with pieces scattered everywhere. Some have yet to be retrieved from under the kitchen refrigerator.

Mr. Williamson

Our Staff and Intern Trip to Italy, The Video...

      

Imaginairum Theater

The Week's Best Videos From Around the World, Edited for a Gentler Audience

A Few Thoughts on Returning to the Classroom (the 43rd time) After the Christmas Vacation. The Imaginairum Theater

Hello Space Center Fans, Staff, and Volunteers,

My western upbringing in the Black Hills of South Dakota is spillin out of me today, so humor me as I switch back to my writing style learned at the feet of my teachers in that one room school house by the Canyon Lake all those years ago (with a fair amount of exageration tossed into the brew to spice things up).

 Christmas is over and the New Year is just over the horizon. January 6th—a day dreaded by students from the Rio Grande to the Northern Plains—will see many of us back at the schoolhouse and back on the trail with Space Center Field Trips.

I'll arrive at Renaissance Academy in Lehi around 6:30 A.M.  First on my "to do" list is stokin the coal fires, and then polish up my arsenal of sarcastic remarks used to corral overly sugared students back into their proper places. An hour and a half later, the students will come moseyin' back into the classroom, trying to keep their spirits up by chanting the date of the next vacation like a campfire hymn. It’s all a bit sobering, isn't it?

"Do I look like I'm happy to be back!?"

I expect to take a fair amount of abuse that first day back from the winter break. I do my level best to greet my students proper, but I wouldn’t bet my best saddle on getting many optimistic responses. Usually, the young'uns return my friendly greetings with looks sour enough to turn milk. Some ignore me, while others toss "dirty looks" like they’re lobbing hand grenades. They're sixth graders. What do you expect?

But that’s alright; a teacher always has the last laugh. Remember, once those students are in their seats, they’re in my corral. Until the bell rings, they're just unruly colts under my watch. But once that bell rings at 8:00 A.M.............

A Typical "Dirty Look" to my "Welcome Back!"

I start the first morning by listing five hours of homework assignments on the chalkboard, topped off with a note saying, “Due Tomorrow.” That wakes 'em up faster than a bucket of ice water. Weeping and wailing usually follows. Once I see they remember their place in the schoolhouse pecking order, I start the positive reinforcement.

I’ll strike one of those assignments from the board if I hear a kind word about my lesson or my appearance. Soon enough, they’re trained better than a prize cow horse. They remember where the outhouse is, where the trash bins sit, and how to find the pencil sharpener. They start using a Kleenex to wipe their ever-running noses instead of their sleeves, and they stop usin' their index fingers to probe their nasal cavities. After a few hours, they start to resemble proper young ladies and gentlemen. By sundown, they’re speaking the Queen’s English and minding their manners. It’s all part of the job.

To the Space Center's many volunteers and staff: allow me to share a few bits of wisdom I’ve gathered over the years to get the new year started right. Remember, I hail from South Dakota—a fine state many of you have never had the pleasure of scouting. It lies just south of North Dakota (as if that helps any of you find it on a map).

Contrary to the tall tales you’ve heard, South Dakota has indoor plumbing, paved highways, and even airports. The Denver-to-Deadwood Stagecoach traded in its wheels years ago. You can visit our neck of the woods without fear of an ambush. And best of all, South Dakota doesn’t have a state income tax! The American Dream is alive and well in that capitalist oasis on the northern plains.

Cowboy Wisdom to Start 2026

I was raised in the rural parts of the state; true cowboy country. Folks out there have a unique, down-to-earth wisdom that applies to everyone, whether you can sit a horse or not. To get 2026 off on the right hoof, I’m sharin’ some cowboy logic I’ve picked up along the trail:

• Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.

• Don't squat with your spurs on.

• Lettin' the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier 'n puttin' it back in.

• If you're ridin' ahead of the herd, take a look back every now and then to make sure it's still there.

• If you get to thinkin' you're a person of some influence, try orderin' somebody else's dog around.

• The Moral of the Mountain Lion: After eating an entire bull, a mountain lion felt so good he started roaring. He kept it up until a hunter came along and shot him. When you're full of bull, keep your mouth shut.

• Never kick a cow chip on a hot day.

• There are two theories to arguin' with a woman. Neither one works.

• If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop diggin'.

• Never slap a man who's chewin' tobacco.

• It don't take a genius to spot a goat in a flock of sheep.

• Always drink upstream from the herd.

• When you give a lesson in meanness to a critter or a person, don't be surprised if they learn their lesson.

• When you're throwin' your weight around, be ready to have it thrown around by somebody else.

• The quickest way to double your money is to fold it over and put it back in your pocket.

• Never miss a good chance to shut up.

• There are three kinds of men: The ones who learn by reading, the few who learn by observation, and the rest who have to pee on the electric fence for themselves.

"I got a fire goin' and the biscuits are hot. I'll be waitin' for ya."

I’ll be plannin’ on hitching up the team and goin’ after the strays. Y'all enjoy these last few days of freedom. If y'all have some spare time, get your horse and come on out to help me check the fences. Bundle up tight—it’ll be colder than blue shadows on a winter morning.

Mr. Williamson

Imaginarium Theater
The Week's Best Videos From Around the World, Edited for a Gentler Audience

A New Supervisor at The Space Place. A New Graduating Cohort from the Electrical Engineering Class. A Retired Space Center Staff Writes his First Book. Imaginarium Theater

Henry Sitting on the Starship Voyager's Captain's Chair

The Space Place at Renaissance Academy Has a New Staff Supervisor. Welcome to Employment Henry!

It has been a long time coming, but Henry managed to do it! A couple of weeks ago, Bracken Funk hired Henry for a staff position at The Space Place.

Henry has worked diligently and consistently for the last four years—starting in the sixth grade—to learn the ropes of Space EdVenturing. He trained alongside the best, including Bracken Funk and Megan Warner, and went the extra mile by volunteering at two different centers: The Space Place and the Christa McAuliffe Space Center in Pleasant Grove.

As a Supervisor, Henry’s responsibilities will include overseeing volunteers during missions in the Voyager simulator. His duties also involve working the bridge with visiting crews and assisting Mr. Funk at the IIFX station in the ship's control room.

Henry Being Welcomed to the Staff Position by the Voyager's 

Senior Volunteering Team. 

   

     Doesn't Henry look official wearing his Space Place Blues?  

     Congratulations Henry!

A Special Thank You to Matt Long for Teaching the Voyager Academy's Electrical Engineering Basics Class at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center

Matt with his First Graduating Team

     The Space Center's Voyager Club operates the Voyager Academy. The Academy offers special classes and workshops to the Voyager Club members.  The classes train volunteers in several aspects of Space Center operations.  After completing the classes, club members may join the Space Center's StageWorks Department and create items to be used in the Center's simulators and planetarium. 

     Matt Long recently completed the Electrical Engineering Workshop with the first group of volunteer students.  Their goal is to design, 3D print, and wire speciality props for the Space Center's simulators.

Another Space Center Author

     We have another author in our extended Space Center family of former staff and volunteers.  Logan Sidwell was a long time volunteer and staff member from many years ago. He hasn't lost all ties with the Space EdVentures community; he, like myself and Natalie Anderson, are voice actors for Mission.io. 

     Logan contacted me recently about his new book, "Human Countermove" and asked if I would share the novel with the Space Center family through the blog, which I am more than happy to do.       

     The Human Countermove is Logan debut novel, an adult, cerebral science fiction with elements of psychological thriller. On the surface, it examines the methods and strategies required to out-think a superintelligence, but beneath that premise lies a narrative that explores deeper philosophical themes. Here’s how it’s described on the back of the book:

     In a nation ruled by AI Minds, productivity is everything, even play.

     Once a legend in the world of strategy games, Zouk Solinsen is now just another burnout in a society obsessed with efficiency. But when the Minds announce a high-stakes tournament—with a seat on the ruling council as the prize, Zouk is drawn back into the fray, determined to reshape the future.

     With help from the enigmatic Torrez Institute, Zouk racks up early victories against the Minds. But when Maya Torrez reveals the cost of her support, a violent coup against the Minds, he rejects it and strikes out alone.

      Now, with no allies, dwindling resources, and a nation on the brink, Zouk faces the biggest game of his life—and a final, impossible choice: reform the system from within, or burn it all down.

Logan's Website:  LoganSidwell.com

Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FM9R7T5F

Imaginarium Theater

The Week's Best Videos From Around the World Edited for a Gentler Audience

A Short Video / Slide Presentation Highlighting the Space Center's 35th Birthday. Aleta Clegg, the Legend Herself, Visits the Space Center. The Falcon has a New Flight Director. Imaginarium Theater

This video is from the Space Center's Facebook page.  It shows the transition from Central Elementary School 3 to the new Central Elementary School number 4 and then many many photos taken over the years.  This is a must watch for all of you who've had a part in the creation and operations of the Space Center over the last 35 years.  

Welcome Home, Aleta Clegg: A Space Center Legend

Aleta with one of her masterpieces found in the Space Center's Costume Room

It was truly a heartwarming moment to see Aleta Clegg walk through the doors of the Space Center this past Saturday. Aleta and her family are in town to celebrate the wedding of her son, Micah—but I'm very happy she took the time to stop in and say hello. Seeing her brought back a flood of great memories from the days when the Space Center was just finding its footing.

An Aleta Creation for a 3 Day Camp Supper way back when

Aleta is part of our foundation. She joined us back in the "infancy" days at Central Elementary, starting as a volunteer. However, it became immediately clear that "volunteer" was an insufficient title for the value she brought. Her service was so indispensable that she didn't stay a volunteer for long; she was quickly brought on as a vital member of the staff.

For me personally, Aleta was a lifesaver. She took command of the day-to-day office duties, lifting a massive weight off my shoulders. Because she handled the administrative side so capably, I was finally able to trim down my exhausting 70-hour work weeks. Her support gave me the freedom to focus on what the Center needed most: creating starship simulator missions, training new volunteers, and managing our growing staff.

But Aleta was never just an office manager. As a true lover of science fiction and a published author, she poured her creativity into every corner of the Center. She was a "Jack of many trades" who wore many hats—literally and figuratively:

• The Actor: She brought the simulations to life, making memorable appearances during our summer space camps as the character "Adrian Stevens."

• The Seamstress: Aleta was the talent behind the fabric, serving as our costume seamstress and creating many of the Center's original character costumes.

• The Chef: She took on the massive responsibility of running the kitchen during our intense 3-day missions. She didn't just feed the campers; she immersed them in the story, serving unique "sci-fi" dishes that became part of the lore.

Though she moved to Washington State several years ago, it is clear that the Space Center still holds a special place in her heart. I hope she knows that she holds a special place in ours as well.

Aleta, you left an indelible mark on the Space Center's success. We would not be where we are today without those early years of your dedication, creativity, and hard work.

Enjoy the wedding festivities this week. God Bless Aleta!

New Wings on the Bridge: Announcing Thomas as Flight Director of the Falcon Simulator

Thomas with the Falcon Microphone. He is Ready for Your Group

The Space Center has a nice piece of exciting news to share.  Thomas R., is officially appointed as the newest Flight Director!

Thomas has been assigned to the Starship Falcon, a move that comes as a massive relief to Mikey W. Ever since Rylan left for his mission a couple of months ago, Mikey has been holding down the fort as the solo Flight Director for the Falcon’s private missions. I know Mikey is thrilled to have a wingman back on the bridge.

A History of Dedication

To me—considering my advanced years—everyone here is a "kid," but Thomas is a truly exceptional one. Thomas first walked through our doors as a  young junior hight school volunteer in June of 2022. From the very beginning, the Space Center staff noticed something special in him. He was one of those young teens who demonstrated an early and intense desire to learn, grow, and master the simulations.

He worked hard to get several "pass offs" in the simulators, a dedication that opened the door for his admittance into the Space Center’s very first Internship Program, taught by the great Tabitha Ricks.

A Historic Promotion

We have a special reason to celebrate this particular promotion. Thomas is officially the first graduate of the Internship Program to earn his Flight Director wings!

This is a significant milestone for the Center. Thomas is setting the example for those who are currently in the program and for those who will follow him into the Flight Directors' chairs of the Center's six Starship simulators. He has proven that the pathway from intern to Flight Director is open for those willing to put in the work.

Ready to Launch (Literally)

Needless to say, Thomas is trained, ready, and more than willing to get going. His enthusiasm is actually a little hard to contain!

When I took the photo for this announcement, Thomas was so excited to finally take the helm of the Falcon that Mikey W.  had difficulty getting the microphone out of his hand! Mikey had a private mission waiting in the wings and needed to get started, but Thomas was struggling to release his grip on the comms.

That is exactly the kind of passion we love to see.

Good job, Thomas. You’ve earned this spot, and we can’t wait to see you in solor action in the Falcon Control Room.

The Flight Director's Oath

"As I take the Flight Director’s chair, I acknowledge that the safety of the crew and the success of the mission rest in my hands. I promise to be a steady hand and example for my staff and volunteers. Together, we will suspend disbelief and turn this simulator into a ship of discovery. I promise to uphold the mission of the Space Center. I will not just run a simulation; I will spark imagination. I will inspire my crew to look past the horizon and prepare for a future among the stars."

The Imaginarium Theater

The Week's Best Videos From Around the World, Edited for a Gentler Audience