Whistler Observatory Raising Funds with Goal and Budget to be Revealed
September 2 Fun Run provides opportunity to donate
Although little visible progress has been made since the first half of the concrete pad was poured in Red Lodge’s Van Dyke Park last October, the Whistler Observatory continues moving ahead with fundraising for its Backyard Observatory-designed structure and has recently released updated results. The 2023 numbers build nicely on the foundation started in 2021 when the Whistler Family provided the initial pledge. This year the Whistlers increased their pledge by $5,000 to $20,000 which, along with $12,000 in new grant money and $5,000 from an anonymous donor, brought the total raised to $40,200.
Above: 2022 Fundraising efforts (reported before Fun Run)
Below: Fundraising efforts as of the end of July 2023
On February 1, 2023, Theresa Whistler reported to the City Parks Board that she would be meeting with contractors soon to determine funding needs and timeline.
On August 3 she was asked: “What is the project budget and timeline? How many stargazing sessions have occurred at the observatory pad? How will the general public be able to use the observatory?"
Her response in its entirety:
“Thanks for your interest, Denise. We’ll write our own article about the Observatory and submit to Alastair for the CCN when the time is right.”
One way to donate to the observatory or other charitable organizations in Carbon County is by donating either directly to the charity via the Fun Run or by donating to the Fun Run’s Sally Martin Match Fund, which benefits each participating charity. Participating in the Fun Run race/walk is free with prior registration. A $20 entry fee is charged the day of the Fun Run. Free T-shirts to participants while they last. The Fun Run is occurring on September 2 this year.
According to the Red Lodge Area Community Foundation’s website, “Last year, Fun Run 19 raised $296,207 for more than 60 Carbon County charities. Thanks to sponsors, donors, participants, and volunteers, we’re looking forward to another year of incredible community collaboration!” The Annual Fun Run for Charities is a yearly fundraising event for charitable organizations in Carbon County.
The view is beautiful along the walking path that is located in the vicinity of the proposed building. Why are we blocking our magnificent mountain views? At one point, the county was going to position lights across the street on their property to properly light up the county building that are located there. Is this still the case? If so, isn't lighting a detriment to an observatory? Where is the MOU or Memorandum of Understanding on this building? Who is going to take care and pay for this building 40 years down the road? I am all for an observatory, however there needs to be a well thought out plan on how it will be paid for now and how it will be paid for in the future and who is going to take care of it moving forward.