Minutes, August 13 2008 meeting
Location: Headquarters Branch of Central Rappahannock Regional Library, Fredericksburg, Virginia
In attendance:
The meeting was opened at 7:05 pm by President Scott Busby. Attendees introduced themselves.
Treasurer Tim Plunkett presented his report.
Scott reviewed events on the club's Yahoo Group astronomy calendar.
We reviewed the Big Meadows Star Gaze, coming up on Friday and Saturday nights, September 26 and 27. This is on the Web site as September 27 and 28. Scott said we do not know if the ranger on duty at that time will permit us to use an easily accessible site.
Bill suggested we look into using the Pinnacle Research Center, two miles north of Big Meadows. Bill will communicate with Scott regarding getting permission to use that location.
Bill also suggested using Sherando Lake State Park as a mountain viewing site.
Mike briefed plans for the Collegiate School star party on October 4. We will need some club members to cover our star party at Caledon on that night.
Joe reported on the Almost Heaven star party at Spruce Knob, West Virginia. The weather was bad for observing. In all other respects it was an excellent event.
Bart received and shared a thank-you card from ranger Steve Price for our star party at Westmoreland State Park.
None were presented.
The club picnic will be at Caledon's picnic shelter Saturday 30 August at 3:00 pm. This is for members, families, and their guests. The raffle grand drawing will be held. The winner must be present to win. We would like to have all of the club scopes there. Tim will contact the member who has the club Dobsonian checked out.
Bart will be at Westmoreland State Park again on October 25. Would we like to have another star party there?
Glenn described prime focus astrophotography. Scott showed two cameras for astrophotography.
Scott conducted the monthly raffle drawing.
The next meeting is scheduled for September 10 2008, 7:00 pm, at Headquarters Branch of Central Rappahannock Regional Library.
Glenn Holliday, Secretary