This may seem like an odd post but I spend most of my time working with people on relationships and saying goodbye is a part of that. To not say goodbye would just not feel right to me.
I have only been in BRAS for about 6 months and I have met many really really nice people here. I felt intrigued by astronomy at the old age of 57 and wanted to give it a go. I remember reading somewhere that, in astronomy, you can't buy ability no matter what you spend on equipment. I have found that to be true and learned that you can't buy patience either. So, I am retiring (lol) from astronomy and once I decided that, I realized the decision was right for me. I want to thank everyone, especially Scott L., Don from Rockefeller, and John N., for your warm and enthusiastic welcome. I really like you folks. But, I have tried a few hobbies that didn't last (e.g. motorcycles and scooters) and have some that I will never leave (e.g. drumming and homebrewing). It's time to reallocate my energy back to the ones that are sticking. My membership is good for 2020 so I will keep reading the newsletter and won't completely rule out making a meeting.
I have some pretty nice equipment and will be posting it here as well as on Cloudy Nights.
Thanks for a good time!

Carlo