1^st Bussiness Meeting of Rappahhannock Astronomy Club

March 1, 2003

Called to order at 2:47PM by VP Jim Burtle

Arondo Holmes absent due to back injury

Present is Jim Burtle, Tom Pendergrass, Myron Wasiuta, Tim Plunkett

Topics

Loss of Observing site (Caledon)-state funding cuts are closing park, funding may be reinstated. Myron called the park this am and left message with Nina inquiring status of park availabilty for RAC public stargazes. Details pending at this time. Club has to assume loss of use for time being. Myron will inform club members as soon as info becomes available.

Star party schedule - Myron says club can use common area of his subdivision. Due to loss of Caledon, these starpartys are for members only. No public due to insurance issues, lack of amenities. First one will be on Saturday, March 29, 2003. Tom will post schedule on webpage. June and September starparties will be at Big Meadows.

Outreach events:

Fundamentals (Einstein’s Bday) Friday night, March 14 7-9PM

Porter Library April 28 8:30-9:30

Salem Church Library branch April 30 8:30-9:30

Fundraising Events 1. Fundamentals event on March 14 - bake sale

Club hats - available to members for $12 Nonmembers $15

Tim inquires about Astronomical League Progress - Myron reports no progress at this time.

Tom suggested bumper stickers with website address to advertize the club.

Officers stress to membership to contribute to “members area” on the web site.

Myron spoke to Mrs. Harrison at CRRL - no additional rooms available for Wed nights. MWC auditoriums available, but charge $75 per use. Club can not afford. We will continue or search.

Programs - need to publicize

Ideas-Telescope basics and use, astrophotography, elementary astronomy (variuos topics), preparing for Mars, history of RAC, general slide show, prepare for Mays Lunar eclipse

BMSG - Sept 25-26 - date set.

Solar observing

Night sky tour-more organized for sky pointing

Signs with event program schedule.

Comfort Station-coffee, hot chocolate

Advertise via email announcements only- No S&T due to excessive publicity

Rain contingency? Indoor programs?

Local light issue

No porta potty due to restroom available

Need Help with Cleanup

Astronomy Day (May 10) - Will try to do an outreach at the mall. Jim Burtle will be be coordinator. Solar viewing, telescope display. 

Tax-exempt status inquired by Tom Pendergrass. Myron not sure at this time. Tom took an action to investigate.

Alternative method for paying dues? Paypal?

Adjourned 5:00 PM