The International Dark Sky Association presented its annual awards recently at the IDA meeting held in Utah. Among this year’s recipients is Ted Blank of the Fountain Hills Dark Sky Committee.

Each year, the IDA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of individuals and groups who are committed to its mission to preserve and protect the natural nighttime environment. Blank was recognized with a Dark Sky Defender Award, the same award presented last year to Joe and Nancy Bill, organizers of the Fountain Hills Dark Sky Committee.

“I was extremely proud that I was able to represent Fountain Hills and our recent award of International Dark Sky Community status at the IDA annual general meeting,” Blank said. “Our Dark Sky Committee, co-chaired by Joe and Nancy Bill, worked hard for more than two years to bring this recognition to the town.”

The Dark Sky Defender Award is given to individuals and organizations in appreciation and recognition of their exceptional efforts to promote and advance the mission and programs of IDA to preserve night skies by promoting quality outdoor nighttime lighting to reduce light pollution and its environmental impacts.

Nominees include those who have led outstanding public education and outreach campaigns on light pollution, who have promoted ordinances and other regulatory tools to reduce light pollution, who have worked with the media, policy-makers, opinion leaders and others to bring greater urgency to the issue, and who have fostered collaborations with disparate stakeholders to effect positive change. A maximum of five awards are be given each year.

According to IDA publicity, Blank is recognized for tirelessly and patiently contributing towards the initiative for Fountain Hills to attain the Dark Sky Community designation.

“He has taught many about not only dark sky principles, but how to enjoy the benefits of having a “dark sky” — by pointing upwards to the heavens and sharing interesting information about celestial bodies,” the IDA states in its program. “He educates the public in a way that garners enthusiasm and awe — you can see the sparkle in his eye turn into a sparkle in the learner’s eye when he teaches. He shares stories of his adventures and new information from his time serving as a NASA ambassador and plans Dark Sky Parties at the Fountain Hills Civic Center.

“Blank broadens minds and inspires learning, helping to create moments of awe and a sense of community. Ted volunteers his time, shares his education and insight, and generously donates towards making his community a better place to live.

“Not only is he supporting the preservation of the natural environment, he creates opportunities to learn about how the bodies in the sky impact our culture, our history, our health, and our innovations. He explains these things in approachable terms and there is always a twinkle of wonder in his eyes and sense of excitement in his voice. His enthusiasm is infectious.”