Message from the President

In a simple ceremony at AAVSO Headquarters this past October, Dan Kaiser passed me the historic gavel that once belonged to Harlow Shapely, a gavel that has opened many an AAVSO meeting. With it, came the Presidency, and trust and confidence of the Council which elected me. It is a great honor, and I will strive to show that trust and confidence was well placed.

I thank Dan for his two years of service as President. I’m sure I will appreciate it all the more as time goes by! It’s also comforting to know that I can rely on Dan’s wisdom and advice, as he continues to serve on the Council as Past President.

Foremost in our thoughts at this time is our Director’s recovery from acute Leukemia. It struck Janet with surprising speed and severity, reminding us once again that life can take unexpected, and devastating turns. I recall one weekend when we weren’t sure whether she’d still be with us at the end. But Janet did pull through, and in a pleasant surprise, is recovering with astonishing speed. I spoke with Janet a week ago, her voice was as strong as ever, as was her spirit and determination to recover. One never would have known what an ordeal she had just been through.

When life and death hung in the balance, I’m convinced that all the prayers and good wishes and thoughts tipped the balance for the side of life. Janet still has a long road to full recovery, please keep those positive thoughts, notes, and prayers coming!

Before going into the hospital, Janet appointed long-time Headquarters staff member Elizabeth Waagen to act in her place. The Council confirmed Elizabeth as Interim Director at the Fall Meeting, and we’ve all been impressed with how Elizabeth has responded to acting on Janet’s behalf. The Headquarters staff has also risen to the challenge. Pulling together as never before to meet this challenge may be the “blessing disguised as misfortune”.

My best wishes for you in this holiday season, with clear skies and many observations in 2004. I look forward to meeting many of you in California for our next meeting.

—Bill Dillon

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