No Great Manitou Star Party in 2006:

Dear Friends,

It's never easy to say "goodbye", so let's just say "see you soon!" After eight years of exciting (and exhausting) work, the Manitoulin Island Dark Sky Association has decided to take a break. We will not be hosting a Great Manitou Star Party this summer.

Over the years, the GMSP has attracted hundreds of visitors to Manitoulin. It has put our lovely island on the map as a premier location for recreational astronomy. It has inspired great friendships, great photos, and great fun.

We want to thank all those who came to see the sky and share a little time with us. We are grateful to the sponsors, the speakers, the volunteers, and especially to the people of Aundeck Omni Kaning, who took us into the heart of their community and made us feel so at home.

Dark sky preservation is well underway on Manitoulin. Most of the island's municipalities and First Nations have passed the MIDSA resolution and are moving forward with full cut-off lighting. We're pleased with these developments, and incredibly proud of what's been accomplished. MIDSA will continue to nurture this project. We hope you will, too! Please come to visit often.

Sincerely,

The Manitoulin Island Dark Sky Association Board of Directors.