Students plan to continue fight for planetarium

Students from Pioneer High School celebrated the decision to delay destruction of the Fleischmann Planetarium until a replacement can be found.

"I was almost in shock," said Laura Dobson, 16, who organized an effort to save the planetarium. "I didn't really think anybody was going to listen to what I had to say. Wow, one person really can make a difference -- we're living proof."

Citing community concerns, University of Nevada, Reno, officials announced a halt Friday to their plans to raze the planetarium to builf a parking garage. No time line was set, but officials said the facility may operate for up to three years.

The victory, however, does not mean the end of the fight.

"The battle's been won, but we still have to be ever vigilant," said language arts teacher Julie Gabica. "The real challenge now is to keep the energy going so we can work with whatever entities to make sure it gets relocated."

Dobson had set up a series of interviews and speaking engagements with officials from the planetarium, university and Western Nevada Community College to shed light on both sides of the issue.

Although university officials have agreed to back off the original June deadline, Dobson said she wants to continue with the schedule.

The focus would change from the proposed demolition of the facility to options for relocation.

In addition to community service, math and science teacher Jim Bean said the Pioneer alternative high school students are learning a valuable lesson.

"These are kids that have felt like they have no voice," he said. "They've often been on the wrong side of the system. This empowers them."

Dobson said she has learned about the democratic system and political process.

"Pretty much you have to get in there and give it your all," she said. "You can't wait for it to happen. You've got to make it happen."

She plans to interview UNR President John Lilley by phone Wednesday. Various speakers are planned throughout this month, and the school is planning a field trip to the planetarium Feb. 4.