2005 Friend of the Stars Award

Presented to Dr. Joseph Shields

Each year, the Southeast Ohio Astronomical Society and the Ohio University Department of Physics and Astronomy presents a local individual or business with our "Friend of the Stars Award". This award recognizes local businesses or individuals that have outdoor lights that do not add to the light pollution problem. These businesses or individuals have outdoor lights that are directed down toward the ground where we use it and not up into the sky where we don't use it.

This year, we are presenting the award to an individual for the first time. The "2005 Friend of the Stars Award" is presented to Dr. Joesph Shields, Chairman of the OU Department of Physics and Astronomy, for his tireless efforts in reducing light pollution through education and the development of the City of Athens Outdoor Lighting Ordinance. Joe was instrumental in getting the Athens City Council to consider and eventually vote on the Outdoor Lighting Ordinance. He is constantly educating people on the benefits of intelligent outdoor lighting. Thanks Joe, for all of your hard work!