B.C.A.A.S. MEETING MINUTES

April 12, 2007

The meeting was called to order at 7:35 with 31 present.  Dave noted that our Lunar Eclipse program at the Berks County Heritage Center on March 3 was attended by about 45 people. Although the moon rose in clouds, it did break through so that we could see the eclipse, and Saturn was also visible.

We are planning to have a club star watch (Messier Marathon) on Friday, March 16 with a cloud date of Saturday, March 17, at the Flying Field. This is an all-night event to try to view all 110 Messier objects in a single night. As the first few objects must be located before it is fully dark, it is recommended that you be set up and ready to observe before dusk. Dave will have his trailer and enclosed pop-up tent with heater for shelter; hot drinks and food will also be available. A decision will be made on Thursday evening whether it will be held on Friday or Saturday night, which will be posted on the website and on the hotline; Dave will also be sending out an email. Everyone is invited.

Mike Bashore will be judging the annual science fair at Albright College on March 20. The awards ceremony is March 21.

Linda Sensenig noted that there is an official new word in the dictionary – “Plutoed” for when someone or something is demoted or devalued.  Also, her aunt wants to sell her binoculars. If anyone is interested, contact Linda. There is $$$$ in the treasury.

Ron Kunkel will be giving two talks. The first is March 21 for the Hay Creek Watershed Association, and the second is for the Fleetwood Grange.  Nolde Forest contacted Dave as they want a program in June.  Earth Day will be held on April 22 (r.d. April 29) in Center Park. As Astronomy Day is April 21, we will set up a table for Earth Day. Melody Gardner will send in the application. Volunteers will be needed.  The North East Astronomy Forum (NEAF) will be held April 28 and 29 in Suffern, New York.

Our speaker tonight was Elizabeth Warner, with the University of Maryland. She gave a very informative talk on observing and photographing man-made satellites.

Respectfully submitted

Barbara Geigle, Secretary

 

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