LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Telescope Award Ceremony for the winners of the second annual Friends of Taylor Observatory Future Astronomers Essay Contest was held on May 18.

Lake County Superintendent of Schools Wally Holbrook congratulated the students.

He spoke to the students, teachers, parents and guests about the future science workshops and activities planned for the Taylor Center.

Winners received a new 6-inch Dobsonian telescope, a stargazing book and other astronomy related items.

All winners received training prior to the award ceremony. Winning students are expected to participate in School Science Nights and Star Parties.

The winners and teachers are: Riviera Elementary: Cooper Dodd, teacher Deanna Madeson; Coyote Valley Elementary: Alessandra Diaz and Trey Dold, teacher Kathy Scavone.

Taylor Observatory and the Friends of Taylor Observatory want to give special thanks to the Sonoma County Astronomical Society. The success of their Striking Sparks Program was the catalyst and inspiration for our Future Astronomers Program.

The observatory and Friends of Taylor Observatory sincerely thank the generous telescope sponsors: Walt and Madelene Lyon and members of the Friends of Taylor Observatory.

The support of the sponsors and other Lake County businesses and residents is an integral part in making this program a success.

The observatory and Friends of Taylor Observatory look forward to more students, teachers and sponsors participating next year.