August 2011

Dear Skyscrapers Members,

We had our annual Skyscrapers Summer Cookout on Saturday, July 9th and all those that were able to attend were treated to an incredible day. The weather could not have been any better, blue skies, low humidity, and temperatures in the 80’s; it was like walking into paradise. Attendees were not only greeted by the beautiful day, but also by the major changes our generous neighbor Gene Allen has completed to his property abutting Seagrave. The extensive clearing Gene completed has provided use with a significantly improved view of the sky.

While all our telescopes have benefitted, the 16” Meade has seen the most improvement. The Meade, which was limited to essentially only the west of the meridian, has now been provided access to virtually the entire east. The transformation can only be described as amazing—which was confirmed by the expressions on the faces of our members entering the main grounds of Seagrave. Gene Allen and members of his family joined us for some food and fun and was treated to an appreciative round of applauds from all in attendance.

As has become the tradition of the Skyscrapers Summer Cookout, the Burgers and Dogs were flying off the grille and the meeting hall had a delicious assortment of member prepared side dishes and desserts. Al Hall again treated us all to his wonderful home-made “Chowda”, um, um, good. Our great weather wasn’t wasted. Bob Horton set up a 90mm Solar Scope and Steve Hubbard his PST. Solar prominences were observed, with one stretching high and appearing almost ready to detach. Of course, the Clark was open with its polished brass gleaming in the sunlight. It shared views of the 1st quarter moon as the day wore on. We held the “Donation Sale” with a number of items purchased by our members. The entire cookout was filled with good food, great friends, and fun activities.

The day could not have been better and I would like to thank all who were able to attend. Let me extend a special thank you to our Trustee’s and all those who volunteered and assisted in organizing our event. I would also like to thank our members responsible for the great assortment of foods and desserts that satisfied so many. What a feast.       

Our July meeting featured Adam Jermyn, an exceptional young man with a bright future. Adam is a graduate of Longmeadow High School and will be attending Caltech this fall. Adam’s presentation outlined his experiences on the U.S. Physics Olympiad training camp and an in-depth look into one of his mathematical science projects. Good luck Adam in all your endeavors and we look forward to seeing you in the future.

Our business meeting followed and included updates from our Trustees in regards to the Observatory Committee and member participation on Public Nights. Kathy Siok also updated the attending membership of the speakers for our upcoming October Astro-Assembly. Ed Haskell informed the membership of John Leonelli’s nomination for the open Trustee position and solicited nominations from the floor. None were received. Our Special Election will be held at the August Meeting.

My final note is a reminder to all: 2011/2012 membership dues were payable beginning in April. If you haven’t remitted your dues please do so at your earliest convenience to continue your support of Skyscrapers. Dues can be mailed to Skyscrapers Inc., 47 Peeptoad Road, North Scituate, RI. 02857, Attn: Jim Crawford, or feel free to see Jim personally during any of our functions he is in attendance.