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
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.
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| 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
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| 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.
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| 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
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