President Jim Browder called the meeting to order at 7:00pm.

Attendees (8):

• Jim Browder, President
• David Medici, Vice President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• Ken Wilson
• Prashant Reddy
• Gary Cowardin
• Dave Walton

Secretary’s report given by Chris McCann

• May’s board meeting minutes were discussed, ‘Old Business’ was updated, and minutes were approved.

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

• Balance Summary          (as of 5/16/2011)                (as of 8/15/2011):

• General Fund:                        6481.10                               6314.61
• Observatory Fund:                 180.91                                 128.35
• TOTAL:                                      6662.01                               6442.96
• Checking Account:               1590.08                                1366.35
• Savings Account:                  2859.72                               2860.22
• Certificate of Deposit:          2212.21                               2216.39
• Pay Pal Acct:                                  0.00                                     0.00
• TOTAL:                                      6662.01                                6442.96

The Astronomical League fees of $330 for 64 RAS active members are included.

It was mentioned that our bank’s name has changed from Wachovia to Wells Fargo.

Treasurer’s report was approved by the board. 

 
Observatory Report given by Jim Browder

• Maintenance update
• Reported that Randy Tatum had chipped away concrete from the apron, re-filled it, and painted it.
• Two exterior walls have been painted, leaving 2 more walls to paint.
• Grass needed to be cut, but it could wait until the end of the month.
• A tree had fallen on the power line, but was removed by Dominion Power.

Education Report (Jim Browder) :

• Many outreach skywatches and events have occurred and continue to be scheduled at various places.  There are several requests for skywatches in the near future. 
• SkyDay night was very successful.  The quarterly event was well attended by over 300 attendees.  RAS was well represented.
• “Good time was had by all”
• Skywatch guidelines completed and thought to be posted.  It was mentioned that the link had issues with WordPress.

Library Report (made by Jim Browder)

• Virginiareported there was no change in status. Process runs “remarkably smoothly”.  Air conditioned room protected the collection during these hot summer days.

Other Reports:

• Telescope donation by Ray Matsuura (Celestron 4.5” reflector).  Need to send a letter receipt for donations such as this.  The board needs to review a receipt template.
• Rezoning near observatory for medical facility.  We believe there may be a probable tree buffer.  Our concern was about possible light sources on such objects as a building identification sign and a flagpole.  Prashant had agreed to go make contact and fine out information.    Brief discussion about the possibility of an amendment in the state constitution that we could use to our advantage.
• Scout Camp observatory plans – Tim proposed creating an observatory on the scout camp grounds that can be used by the RAS.  Well received by the board.  It will need further discussion and research into cost, timeline, accessibility, and probably more issues.  An advisory panel was started that included Jim Browder and Ken Wilson.  More members will be added.
• Goochland lighting ordinance – plans by the board of supervisors are in disarray.  RAS will hold its support letter for Laura Graham until she requests it.

Old Business:

• Name Tags – discussion continued with details of needs and different types.  We need to consider tags for present members and going forwards.  We need to consider cost, and ease to make quickly and inexpensively.  It all comes down to a happy medium among ‘time to create’ vs ‘cost’ vs ‘ease of reading tag’.  We would like to keep the logo.
• Existing prices: Staples FedEx can create tags quickly (was $4, now $5 a badge).
• Magnetic type seemed to be popular to not damage clothing or puncture skin.
• Garyspoke of a machine that we could use to make name tag labels.
• Equipment inventory – Dave Walton (Inventory controller) stated that we need a form to use for check out purposes.  We need to look at what the members now have in their possession.  Dave will need to eventually get it finalized and posted on the web site under the member’s security page.  Jim Browder will send an email to members inquiring what RAS equipment they have.  Dave Walton will ask at a future RAS meeting.
• Draft asset policy – Ken Wilson distributed a procedures draft for RAS’s inventory control.  He requests for the board to review and respond with comments before the next board meeting.  There is a target to get a final version of it approved at the next board meeting.

New Business:

• Selection of nominating committee – Dave Medici volunteered as chairman.
• Fall picnic is scheduled for the 3^rd Saturday of September (Sept 17) at the scout camp.  A $60 check is needed to pay rental fees to Tim.  It was decided that if members brought visitors, they may either bring additional food or donate money to the food cause.
• The RAS version of VAAS 2012 is scheduled for September 15, 2012.  the shelter and dining hall at the Maidens scout camp have been reserved).  Planning committee will be created after elections are done and new board has begun.

• Proposed purchases – Prashant proposed a purchase of a double stack filter for the solar telescope.  Discussion delayed until later after other estimates have been found.  It was re-iterated that John Raymond needs to be consulted for advice before equipment is purchased.
• Announcement to be aware of suspicious Facebook emails.  Several board members have received SPAM emails addressed to Dave Walton.

Next Board meeting will be Monday, November 14, 2011 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.  Normally, the board meeting would have been on November 21, but with that being on Thanksgiving week, there may be attendance issues.

• Meeting was adjourned at 8:34pm.

 President Jim Browder called the meeting to order at 7:02pm.

 Attendees (10):

• Jim Browder, President
• David Medici, Vice President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• Ken Wilson
• Betty Wilson
• Prashant Reddy
• Gary Cowardin
• Dave Walton
• Jeff Pike

 Secretary’s report given by Chris McCann

• February’s board meeting minutes were discussed and approved.

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

• Balance Summary          (as of 2/21/2011)                      (as of 5/16/2011):

• General Fund:                        6089.27                               6481.10
• Observatory Fund:                   213.62                                 180.91
• TOTAL:                                 6302.89                               6662.01
• Checking Account:                1241.43                               1590.08
• Savings Account:                  2859.37                                2859.72
• Certificate of Deposit:           2202.09                                2212.21
• Pay Pal Acct:                               0.00                                      0.00
• TOTAL:                                6302.89                                 6662.01

The Astronomical League fees are due for RAS.  Jim mentioned we have 64 active members, which approximates dues to be $330.  Chris McCann just received the AL bill a couple days ago and will deliver it to Jim Blowers’ home within a few days.

Motion was made to allocate fees to renew RAS’s website address.  Moved and accepted.

Treasurer’s report was approved by the board. 

�
Observatory Report given by Jim Browder

• The following maintenance has been performed on the observatory: concrete has been patched, front gate was re-painted
• Maintenance needed to be done: building and metal poles need to be painted; 1 light needs to be replaced
• Grass cutting duties have been set
• John Barnett is planning an open house.  Comment heard: “… good to see him active again.”

Education Report (Jim Browder) :

• Several public skywatches continue to be scheduled at various places.  There are several requests for skywatches in the near future. 

• Appreciation to David Hagen (Educator at SMV) for his work with RAS needs
• Where is the large RAS banner?
• RavenCon 2011 (April 8-10) report:
• Attended by Jim Browder, Prashant Reddy, John Raymond, Dave Walton, Terry Barker
• There were panel discussions and information tables; unfortunately, night time Skywatch was weathered out
• 5pm on Friday: Jim and Prashant handled the RAS and amateur astronomy discussion.  Very few attended
• Terry spoke on satellite observation and Dave talked about available software.
• John had a telescope aimed at a photo of Saturn down the hall. (“attention getter”)
• “worth-while experience”, “always good to try something different”
• Astronomy Day (May 7) 2011:
• Thanks to Prashant for coordinating RAS activities for Astronomy Day.
• Many RAS members, not many visitors, although there was a steady flow of attendance, reasonable contact with public,
• More diversity in crowd – all ages, but appeared to have more children than  previous years
• Need for back-up coverage on all activities, especially solar observing
• Rocket launcher was defective
• Skywatch had been “prommed out” quite a while back.
• Recommendations for next year:  Ken recommended more children activities for next time; check available equipment long before that day; what will be available for us from SMV; RAS t-shirts for next year’s workers

Library Report (made by Jim Browder)

• Virginiareported there was no change in status. Process runs “remarkably smoothly”.

Other Reports:

• A $50 contribution was donated to the American Cancer Society, in the memory of Jerry Zaun.

Old Business:

• Skywatch guidelines (drafted by Ken and Betty Wilson) finalized.  Needs to be linked on website.
• 501 (c)(3) filing completed – electronic filing, receipt sent to Phil Roberts

New Business:

• Jeff Pike is looking at a dark sky site inCumberland, about 20 miles west of the Powhatan observing site.  It is near the junction of routes 628 and 629.  Staff at their office has given their OK for us to look at it.
• Gary Cowardin suggested a more comfortable site onPatterson AvenueinGoochlandCountynearColumbia.
• Betty Wilson recommended a 17^th century home in Manquin (King William??) for future picnics and skywatches.

• Proposed purchases:
• Prashant proposed a purchase of $599 for a double stack filter for the solar telescope.
• Jeff and Gary support the purchase of another telescope. 
• For example, purchase a new scope to use daytime at schools.
• Recommendations for scope/filters purchases included white-light filters, Hydrogen-alpha filters, and Calcium filter (different frequency than double stacks)
• John Raymond needs to be consulted for equipment advice before purchases.
• Ken proposes that we first determine what amount is available in the treasury to budget for any purchases.  Jim Blowers will research.
• Ken will draft a policy of procedures for RAS’s inventory control.
• Dave Walton volunteered to be the inventory controller.
• Eventually, membership will be informed of what inventory is available.
• New member needs:  name tags, handbook (Feb, 2006 is latest edition), password for web page information
• Motion was made to match design of new name tags with existing name tags.  Motion approved!

Next Board meeting will be Monday, August 15, 2011 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.

• Meeting was adjourned at 8:38pm.

President Jim Browder called the meeting to order at 7:01pm.

Attendees (9):

• Jim Browder, President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• Ken Wilson
• Betty Wilson
• Prashant Reddy
• Gary Cowardin
• Laura Graham
• Dave Walton

Secretary’s report given by Chris McCann

• November’s board meeting minutes were distributed, discussed, corrected, and accepted.

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

• Balance Summary          (as of 11/15/2010)                      (as of 2/21/2011):

• General Fund:                        5451.32                                     6089.27
• Observatory Fund:                   168.86                                       213.62
• TOTAL:                                 5620.18                                     6302.89
• Checking Account:                  559.08                                     1241.43
• Savings Account:                   2859.01                                     2859.37
• Certificate of Deposit:            2202.09                                     2202.09
• Pay Pal Acct:                                0.00                                           0.00
• TOTAL:                                  5620.18                                     6302.89

NOTE: The February totals do not include 2 memberships received earlier on 2/21/11.

Treasurer’s report was approved by the board.�
Observatory Report given by Jim Browder

• Randy Tatum is acting RAS Observatory Director.
• The concrete apron at the observatory is crumbling and needs to be patched up.
• Maintenance, such as exterior patching and painting, is needed when it gets warmer

Education Report (Jim Browder) :

• John Raymond, original RAS Outreach coordinator, is still unavailable due to new work hours
• Betty and Ken Wilson volunteered to assist in scheduling future outreach events.
• Big events at Petersburg battlefield and Scotchtown are on the calendar.
• continues to schedule and hold several public skywatches at various places.  There are several requests for skywatches in the near future. 

• Comments were made about recent RAS skywatches at the Science Museum have been attended by ‘good-sized’ crowds.

Library Report (made by Jim Browder)

• Virginia reported there was no change in status.

Other Reports:

Dark skies / light pollution initiatives: The letter from RAS to the Goochland County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of Laura Graham, is temporarily on hold.

Old Business:

• Skywatch guidelines (drafted by Ken and Betty Wilson)

Final draft will be sent to Jim Browder and the remainder of the RAS board.  The intent of its use will be to have a link for it on the RAS website, and will also be sent to the organization prior to the Skywatch.

• SMV joint outreach

RAS will attempt to combine some of the SMV ideas with our plans for Astronomy Day 2011.  A major difference between the RAS and SMV ideologies is that SMV is “less individual/low touch” while RAS finds importance on “individual/hi touch”.  RAS expects to speak with Conti soon.

New Business:

• Astronomy Day – Saturday, May 7^th

Prashant Reddy will be the coordinator of Astronomy Day.

Expected activities include : “Science on a Sphere”, various telescopes on display, solar observing, launching pressurized water rockets, a meteorite on display, solar systems made to scale, and our own ‘local astronaut’.

Since there is a prom at the SMV on the night of Astronomy Day, consideration will be made for an alternate site for that night’s Skywatch.

• Ravencon participation – April 8-10

RAS has been asked to participate in a science fiction-based convention named Ravencon to discuss and support the perception of realistic Astronomy with the ideas used in science fiction fantasies (movies, comic books, etc).  Ideas discussed among us were to have a fan table, a discussion about RAS, and a possible Skywatch for the attendees.  We can also give away sky charts.

• 501 (c)(3) filing – should be filed in May 2011.
• SCC report was officially filed in November, 2010 and was filed with Phil Roberts.
• Hospice building next to RAS observatory

A proposal has been made to Chesterfield County for a 25-bed proposed Hospice unit to be built on the land next to the RAS observatory.  Proposal also includes a lit sign and an access to the proposed site.  Jim Browder passed out copies of the proposal and proposed map changes of the area.  RAS discussed necessary actions to be performed, including contacting the builders about lighting and contacting Jim Petty about any lighting restrictions that have been created in the past concerning the observatory.  Will any barriers need to be constructed to block access and stray lighting from the facility? 

• Proposed purchases:
  • Solar observing equipment (proposed by Prashant Reddy),
  • Color video camera and sale of existing black & white Stellacam (proposed by Jim Browder)
  • 6-inch Dob for outreach activities (proposed by John Raymond)

Discussion about issues involving future storage of new (and existing) equipment.  We also need to consider the affordability of these purchases and of any storage costs.  Do we have an issue tracking who has the RAS scopes? At this time, Prashant has possession of the PST.  What is the existing ‘check out’ process?  Upon purchase and use of new equipment, we need training on its use.

A motion was made to require purchase orders/quotes from different parties before purchases will be considered.  Motion passed.

Next Board meeting will be Monday, May 16, 2011 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.

Meeting was adjourned at 8:50pm

President Jim Browder called the meeting to order at 7:01pm.

Attendees (11):

• Jim Browder, President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• Ken Wilson
• Betty Wilson
• Prashant Reddy
• Jeff Pike
• Gary Cowardin
• Cal Pletcher
• Laura Graham
• Bill Walton

Secretary’s report given by Chris McCann

• August’s board meeting minutes were distributed, discussed, and accepted.

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

• Jim commented that dues are coming in slowly.
• Balance Summary (as of 11/15/2010):

• General Fund:                $5451.32
• Observatory Fund:           $168.86
• TOTAL:                         $5620.18
• Checking Account:          $559.08
• Savings Account:           $2859.01
• Certificate of Deposit:    $2202.09
• Pay Pal Acct:                          0.00
• TOTAL:                          $5620.18

Treasurer’s report was approved by the board.�
Observatory Report given by Jim Browder

• While John Barnett is undergoing chemotherapy sessions, Randy Tatum will be acting RAS Observatory Director.  It was reported that RAS has 2 new operators – Isaac Steincamp and Nathan Horne). 
• The concrete apron at the observatory is crumbling and needs to be patched up.

Education Report (Jim Browder) :

• John Raymond, RAS Outreach coordinator, continues to schedule and hold several public skywatches at various places.  There are several requests for skywatches in the near future. 
• Area skywatches should be processed through John Raymond, who continues to do an awesome job.

• Another skywatch at Scotchtown is still scheduled for this coming Friday (November 19).
• Jim Browder reported that the Heart of Virginia Scout Council Star Party had an outstanding turnout of 100-200 people, including at least 10 telescopes, most operated by RAS members. There are ideas considered for sponsoring similar skywatches in either the Spring, Fall, or both.  Discussions will be made in the future.
• Comments were made about recent RAS skywatches at the Science Museum have been attended by ‘good-sized’ crowds.

Library Report (made by Jim Browder)

• Virginia reported that she had no problem accessing the newly re-located RAS library room.  The people at the Richmond Alarm Company were nice and easy to work with, to gain access.  RAS will be sending a card to Wayne Boggs (President of the alarm company) to thank him for his hospitality and use of his storage room.

Other Reports:

Dark skies / light pollution initiatives

• Laura Graham joined us to discuss local dark sky issues.  She asked if RAS is willing to supply her with letters of “dark sky” support and assistance, when needed, to influence changes.
• Chesterfield County is considering changes to their existing ordinances to affect future inspection processes involving public lighting. 
• Goochland County is attempting similar changes that Laura successfully fought for in Powhatan County. 
• RAS agreed to send a letter of support to Goochland, emphasizing the need for dark skies.  RAS is also considering having interested members assisting Laura in her mission.
• Should RAS be contacting SMV and other companies, to emphasize the use of “green lighting” according to the federal government suggestions?
• Recently installed lighting in Powhatan is not shining directly on others’ properties.
• Powhatan Correction Facility has exterior lighting pointing downward.  Laura discusses this and other items in an article in an IDA magazine named Nightscape.
• The most effective supporters of change will have to be the local county citizens, where the ordinances are being evaluated.
• Grayson County has completed a new prison facility with shielded lighting.
• Can RAS put an IDA link on the RAS website?
• Ken Wilson expressed 2 ideas for consideration:
  • Can RAS award a company who has improved its external lighting according to IDA proposals?
  • In the 13 acres behind the SMV, will it be possible to present good and bad lighting examples?
• Can RAS perceive publicly supporting the Dark Sky issues as a future on-going mission?

SCC report filing

• Check into the need (and timing) of updating the SCC filing.
• Ask Phil if we need constant evaluation of 501©3?

Fall Picnic

• Great planning and turnout!!.  Thanks to Prashant!  Good work.  Prashant said he would make his notes and findings public for the rest of us to possibly use in future planning.

New Business:

Election of RAS Officers for 2011

Election results, elected positions, month of meeting presentation:

Ken Wilson                                           January

Jim Browder                  President           February

Betty Wilson                                          March

Jim Blowers                  Treasuerer         April

David Medici                 Vice-President   May

Prashant Reddy                                      June

Cal Pletcher                                           July

Chris McCann                Secretary           August

Dave Walton                                          September

Jeff Pike                                               October

Gary Cowardin                                      November

John Barnett                                          December

Appointed Positions for 2011

Ken Wilson                   Astronomical League Coordinator

John Raymond               Outreach Coordinator           (Does he need an assistant?)

Virginia Eckert              Librarian

Treasury Status/Dues

• Do we need dues increase?  Discussion tabled until future board meeting.

Observatory Director for remainder of 2010

• Randy Tatum will be acting as the Observatory Director, until John Barnett returns to the post.

Resource Document (Ken & Betty Wilson)

• Ken and Betty created a document that RAS should present to groups and organizations that will be having a skywatch.  It describes the proper process to acquire RAS services, selecting a sufficient site for the skywatch, and general behavioral guidelines that should be followed during the skywatch.  The board was asked to look over it and respond.  Immediate responses were very favorable.

Follow-up to offer by Rich Conti for joint outreach

• SMV is asking for RAS to work with them in a joint outreach to the public.  A major task will be to display positive relations and distribute handouts at joint functions. 
• Immediate questions and concerns:
  • If we are passing out SMV literature, can we also pass out RAS info, too? 
  • All SMV info needs to pass by the RAS board first. 
  • Will SMV have any liabilities due to RAS being “deputized workers”? 
  • Are we allowed to have a “sense of identity” at the skywatches; for example, a tee-shirt, hat, name badge, or poster to display that we are RAS. 
  • We need a subset of RAS to meet with Conti about it.  The group needs to be strong, polite, professional, and open-minded, but not promise anything until the board is informed of the requests.  Several members were suggested to be members of the committee to meet with Conti, but the President will make the final choices.

Thanks to Tim Streagle for storing and use of large Dob

Thanks again to John Raymond for coordinating the many outreach events

Future issue to be discussed:

• There is an issue with the filter used for the solar telescope.  There is a possibility that it needs to be replaced. 
• Jeff Pike brought to our attention that some people in Cumberland County want to talk to us about creating an observing location in their area.  Prashant added that Buckingham is also a good location to have a site.

Next Board meeting will be Monday, February 21^st, 2010 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.

• Meeting was adjourned at 8:45pm.

President Jim Browder called the meeting to order at 7:01pm.

Attendees (8):

• Jim Browder, President
• David Medici, Vice President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• Ken Wilson
• Prashant Reddy
• Bill Jeffries
• Tim Streagle

Secretary’s report given by Chris McCann

• May’s board meeting minutes were distributed, discussed, and accepted.

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

Balance Summary (as of 8/16/2010):

• General Fund:                $5625.59
• Observatory Fund:           $179.44
• TOTAL:                         $5805.03
• Checking Account:          $758.05
• Savings Account:           $2858.65
• Certificate of Deposit:    $2188.33
• Pay Pal Acct:                          0.00
• TOTAL:                          $5805.03

Treasurer’s report was approved by the board.�
Observatory Report given by John Barnett

• John Barnett is considering selling the Astrograph and the 9-inch f9 mirror in the RAS observatory. 

Education Report (Jim Browder) :

• Jim Browder reported that the Skyday Night on July 16 went fairly well.  There were about 400 people attending the festivities.  This may be an event to be scheduled quarterly throughout the year.  The RAS Skywatch may also become quarterly, instead of monthly.
• We briefly considered a few possible locations to research for our skywatches, if we are restricted to 4 SMV skywatches per year.  An incomplete list of possible sites included Maymont Park, Louis Ginter Gardens, Bryan Park, and University of Richmond campus.  

• John Raymond, RAS Outreach coordinator, continues to schedule and hold several public skywatches at various places.  There are several requests for skywatches in the near future. 
• Area skywatches should be processed through John Raymond, who continues to do a great job.

Library Report

• The library will be moved on August 17 from the U-Haul on Lombardy to the Richmond Alarm Company in Midlothian.  Wayne Boggs, who used to be a RAS President, has been gracious to allow us to use the alarm company building for storage of the RAS library.
• Discussion about library issues will be discussed during New Business.

Old Business:

• Brief discussion about the future of the RAS library (short term and long term).  Right now, they will be moved to the Richmond Alarm Company.  The option to have the library moved to an on-sight storage building (RAS observatory grounds) is still an option.
• Library contents can be found online at the RAS site.
• We were asked to think about who will be allowed as authorized users of the library, when it can be accessible, and if we will have a ‘delivery’ system to handle book requests.

New Business:

• We continued to talk about what to do with a portion of the library contents.  Some of the considerations have been:

• �
  • Can we access the list of library contents quickly? Where?  The location on the RAS website will be confirmed.
  • How much of the library do we need?
  • What can we do with the un-needed books, extra copies?
  • How much of the library contents can be found elsewhere on the internet?
  • How much of the contents are valuable?  How is that judged?
  • How much of the contents are out-of-date?
• VAAS participation – October 9, 2010 at Roanoke College.  Jim Browder has suggested that we display our electronic frame of RAS images that have been taken by our members.  We were asked to consider attending.  Back Bay will be hosting in 2011, while RAS will be hosting VAAS in 2012.
• Does RAS want to have a Fall Picnic?  When? Where?  Prashant Reddy has volunteered to be point of contact, poll the club and do research.  If so, Prashant will surpervise the coordination of the food, choose the date and location.  A few of the suggested locations have good observation sites: Three Lakes Park, Pony Farm Park, and Tim’s scout camp in Maidens.
• David Medici made a motion for RAS to have a new member’s packet.  Recently, it seemed that nothing was given to the new members.  Possible ideas were to resume the handbook, give out name tags (Jim Blowers), membership cards, Café Press items, red flash lights (or something useful when observing), printed by-laws, information about the library and observation sites like Malvern Hill and Powhatan, resume mentorship process to have someone selected to keep in contact with new members.  A motion was made to have the executive committee investigate the options.
• Tim Streagle will be having a Fall Star party on Saturday November 6, 2010.  There are cabins for rent, public bathrooms, and running water.  RAS has volunteered to help.
• Prashant Reddy has volunteered to head the 2011 RAS Board selection committee. He will need to get others (board and non-board members) to work with him to find 12 RAS members to be on the 2011 RAS Board.

Next Board meeting will be Monday, November 15^th, 2010 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.

• Meeting was adjourned at 8:35pm.

Reminder:

• RAS needs to fill and submit a Form-990-N with the IRS within every 3 years.  We agreed upon a goal for a selected RAS Board member to evaluate the status of this form soon after the new slate of officers has been elected.

President Jim Browder called the meeting to order at 7:03pm.

Attendees (8):

• Jim Browder, President
• David Medici, Vice President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• John Barnett, Observatory Director
• Gary Cowardin
• Betty Wilson
• Ken Wilson

Secretary’s report given by Chris McCann

February’s board meeting minutes were distributed, discussed, and the following needed to be corrected:

• Barnett was spelled incorrectly with an ‘e’ on the end.
• Gary Cowardin was incorrectly labeled as the Vice President.  The Vice President is presently David Medici.
• The word ‘planetarium’ in the ‘New Business’ section should be changed to ‘observatory’.

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

Balance Summary (as of 5/17/2010):

• General Fund:                $6213.90
• Observatory Fund:           $156.56
• TOTAL:                         $6370.46
• Checking Account:        $1323.84
• Savings Account:           $2858.29
• Certificate of Deposit:    $2188.33
• Pay Pal Acct:                          0.00
• TOTAL:                          $6370.46

The report reflected the funds towards the new fence build on the observatory property.

Treasurer’s report was approved by the board.�
Observatory Report given by John Barnett

• The fence along the property line between the shopping center and the RAS observatory has been repaired, actually replaced, by the Hercules Fencing company for the agreed upon price of $1000, which was allocated by the RAS board.  John Barnett stated that the fence looks good, but needs to be extended a little lower at a tree root.
• There was also a brief discussion about possibly selling the 13” Dobsonian telescope that the RAS owns.  It is presently stored at the home of John Barnett, and needs to be moved soon. 
• A minor leak was repaired in the observatory.  No damage had occurred.

• Another Open House has been scheduled, weather permitting. 

Education Report (Jim Browder) :

• John Raymond, RAS Outreach coordinator, continues to schedule and hold several public skywatches at various places.
• There are several requests for skywatches in the near future. 
• Astronomy Day went really well, but was clouded over, therefore, no solar observing was done.
• The VAAS meeting for 2011 will be held by the Back Bay Amateur Astronomers in Virginia Beach.  RAS was scheduled to host the meeting in 2011, but decided to give the Back Bay society the opportunity to host it.  RAS will host it in 2012.  The Roanoke Valley Astronomical Society will be the host for the October 9, 2010 meeting.  More information later.
• Area skywatches should be processed through John Raymond, who is doing a great job.

Library Report

• Discussion about library issues will be discussed during New Business.

Old Business:

• David Medici and Jim Browder have been doing research into getting our RAS library moved from a climate-controlled storage facility to the VCU library.  The response from the VCU library was ‘No’.  The library does hold volumes for some groups, but refused RAS, because of no astronomy program at VCU.  More discussion will be found in the ‘New Business’ section.

New Business:

• RAS needs to fill a Form-990-N with the IRS within every 3 years.  We agreed upon a goal for RAS to submit the form every year, soon after the new slate of officers has been elected.
• Disposition of library volumes: 
• Discussion was continued to determine what can be done with the contents of the RAS library.  The following were ideas (with pros and/or cons):
  • VCU – will not hold our library. 
  • University of Virginia – too far away for RAS members to use.
  • University of Richmond, Richmond Public Library, Randolph-Macon College, a few selected private companies – will be contacted to see what they have to offer
  • Long-term storage in present climate-controlled storage facility – high-cost over time, limited accessibility.
  • Storage in individual home/office – no one asked yet, but it would require that person to be the librarian (or library support)
  • Storage in observatory – limited space available.
  • Discussion into possibly purchasing a storage shed to be built on the RAS observatory property.  Research has begun through several companies into the significant cost estimates for purchasing the building, cost of possible wiring, permits . . ., etc.  This building can be used to house the library contents or the tools and hardware from the observatory.  In the later case, the library contents may be kept in the observatory.
  • Further discussion suggested that the value of the library contents needs to be determined, especially for any possible insurance coverage.  An idea was brought up to donate any extra copies or (non-collector) out-of-date books to either members, charities, groups, or libraries.

Next Board meeting will be Monday, August 16^th, 2010 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.

• Meeting was adjourned at 8:24pm.

President Jim Browder called the meeting to order at 7:00pm.

Attendees:

• Jim Browder, President
• Gary Cowardin, Vice President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• John Barnett, Observatory Director
• Bill Jeffries
• Jeff Pike
• Prashant Reddy
• Tim Streagle
• David Medici
• Betty Wilson
• Ken Wilson

Secretary’s report

• November’s board meeting minutes were distributed, discussed, and accepted with no changes.

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

Balance Summary:

• General Fund:                $7630.97
• Observatory Fund:           $210.76
• TOTAL:                         $7841.73
• Checking Account:        $2819.35
• Savings Account:           $2857.94
• Certificate of Deposit:    $2164.44
• Pay Pal Acct:                          0.00
• TOTAL:                          $7841.73

Treasurer’s report approved by board.�
Observatory Report:

• John Barnett has reported that the fence is still deteriorating and falling down.  Discussion about the fence will be found in the New Business section.
• Another Open House has been scheduled, weather permitting.  John reported that the last chance to see Mars during it’s approach to Earth is coming soon.
• Thanks to those who took care of the facilities and grounds around the observatory.

Education Report (Jim Browder) :

• John Raymond, RAS Outreach coordinator, has scheduled and held several public skywatches at various places.  John will continue to provide this service during 2010.
• There are several requests for skywatches in the near future. 
• A skywatch request has come in from St. Emma Military Academy in Powhatan.
• Discussions are under way to have a skywatch in Bryan Park. 
• There was a successful skywatch at Rockwood Nature Center on Courthouse Road (David Medici, Tim Streagle, John Barnette, and Dave Walton were among the RAS members that participated).

Library Report

• Discussion about library issues will be discussed during New Business.

New Business:

• There was a brief discussion about whom to send the meeting presentation topics to.  They are to be sent to the Vice-President and also copy the board members to keep them informed.
• Jim Browder discussed the meeting that he and Dave Credicott had with Rich Conti, SMV Director and CEO, and Elizabeth Voelkel, Director of Guest Operations.  A large portion of the meeting involves looking at slides.  Jim and Dave discussed the global relationship between RAS and SMV, including the long-time history and activities that the 2 groups have shared.  It was found that RAS is not in the future strategic plans of the SMV.  It appears that Rick Conti wishes to ad pizzazz and excitement, rather than inspiration and education, to the museum.  His attention is intended towards the family rather than the schools and their SOLs.
• The latter portion of the meeting brought some “Challenges and Issues” for RAS.  The impression at the meeting was that the over 600 volumes of books and manuscripts in our possession had to be moved out of the RAS library at SMV by the end of February.
• Options and their pros/cons were discussed pertaining to the books:

1. Get atmosphere controlled rental storage
2. Long term storage inside the observatory,
3. Short term storage inside the observatory, with plans to create a new separate building on RAS property, to house the books.
4. Reduce the amount of books by donating to different charities and libraries.
5. Long-term storage in the 4^th floor library at VCU.  Only RAS people will be allowed to check out the books.

• The following motions were considered and passed by the board:

Members of the board were going to assemble at the RAS library on Feb 20 to box the books.  Betty Wilson strongly encouraged that we lined each box with a plastic garbage bag before loading the books into it.  There are several old, important, and fragile books in our library.

The moving of the books will be done within the following week, but is not planned to be on the day of boxing.  The primary destination will be the VCU library, if David Medici can arrange it with VCU by that time.  If not possible, the books will be put into a near-by climate-controlled public storage facility.  If not possible, the books will be moved into the observatory.

The board discussed the condition of the fence around the RAS observatory, and has realized that no one else will be found responsible to fix it.  The board has agreed to a maximum of $1000 to be used to replace the fence, in efforts to improve the security of the planetarium.  Research will be made and several possible construction choices will be considered.

Next Board meeting will be Monday, May 17^th, 2010 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.

• Meeting was adjourned at 8:38pm.

• Jim Browder, President
• Gary Cowardin, Vice President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• John Barnett, Observatory Director
• Preston Kirby
• Bill Jeffries
• Jeff Pike
• Prashant Reddy
• Tim Streagle
• David Medici
• Betty Wilson
• Ken Wilson

Secretary’s report

• August’s Board meeting was distributed and accepted with no changes.

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

Balance Summary:

• General Fund:                $7168.47
• Observatory Fund:           $220.74
• TOTAL:                         $7389.21
• Checking Account:        $2367.19
• Savings Account:           $2857.58
• Certificate of Deposit:    $2164.44
• Pay Pal Acct:                          0.00
• TOTAL:                          $7389.21

Treasurer’s report approved by board.  Charts were presented as part of the report.  It was recommended and agreed that the charts should be presented to the membership at the next RAS meeting.

There was a question regarding the reasons behind the need for insurance, and if the insurance is for injuries occurring at all RAS events.

Observatory Report:

• John Barnett has reported that the fence is still deteriorating and falling down.  Our legal representative has been attempting to speak with Thalhimers Corporation, the owners of the adjoining shopping center.
• Dave Credicott’s son will be spending time patching up the fence as a scouting activity.  Our legal representative states it is OK for now. 
• The observatory staff has 3 new members and recently had a computer donated to the observatory.
• Another Open House is scheduled for Nov 22, weather permitting.  John reported that weather has allowed only 3 RAS open houses this year.
• John and Joe Hetmanski have spent some time speaking with 2 electrical engineers about the use of Solar energy to help complement electrical power to the observatory.  If ever used, RAS will not cancel its account with Dominion Power.  RAS power line runs 0.5 miles through the woods.  The necessary battery arrangement would provide a trickle charge, and would probably not be noticed in the electrical bill.
• This was investigated to provide a means to keep the telescope dry and prevent humidity build-up in the case of a long-term electrical power outage.
• The insurance adjuster inspected the observatory and was impressed with the new flooring around the base of the telescope.

Education Report (Jim Browder) :

• John Raymond is the RAS Outreach coordinator and has scheduled and held several public skywatches at various places including schools, nursing homes, and neighborhoods.  John will continue to provide this service during 2010.
• The regional Science Fair will be held in Powhatan this year.  RAS has an on-going practice of giving monetary prizes to impressive projects that support study into Astronomical research.  David Medici will be the lead RAS representative to judge the projects involving Astronomy and similar studies.  John Barnett and Chris McCann will also attend as RAS judges.

Library Report

• There are several issues regarding the allowed hours for the library to be open, and access to RAS books and manuscripts.

New Business:

Election of 2010 RAS officers from the new slate of board members were held.  Also assignments of monthly presentation responsibilities were decided.  Both will be listed below:

• Jim Browder       President                           December
• David Medici      Vice President                  June
• Jim Blowers        Treasurer                          April
• Chris McCann     Secretary                          August
• John Barnett        Observatory Director       January
• Gary Cowardin                                             November
• Bill Jeffries                                                   October
• Jeff Pike                                                       September
• Prashant Reddy                                            July
• Tim Streagle                                                 May
• Betty Wilson                                                 March
• Ken Wilson                                                   February

• Virginia Eckert was appointed to continue as librarian for 2010.
• John Raymond was appointed to continue as our Outreach Coordinator for 2010.

• There was a brief discussion about the database of past presentations.  It can be accessed through an existing link on the RAS webpage.
• A goal has been set to provide Jim Browder (and the remainder of the Board) with our tentative presentation topic during the first couple of months in 2010.

• There are several issues regarding the allowed hours for the library to be open, and access to RAS books and manuscripts.  We have over 600 volumes of books and manuscripts in our possession.  After board discussion, we will attempt to have 2 RAS representatives meet with SMV officials to discuss our questions and concerns.

Reminders:

• 60th anniversary RAS dinner: Date Friday December 4th.  Place: Holiday Inn on Staples Mill Road, near Staples Mill and West Broad Street.
• The cost is $30 a person.  Provide payments to Jim Browder or Jim Blowers by Nov 30.  John Barnett and others are assembling some historical material for display, while Gary Cowardin is providing audio/visual equipment.  Bill Jeffries has scheduled our speaker for the evening to be Jim Condon from the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Charlottesville.  The topic of his talk will be “Weighing a Black Hole”.
• Thanks was given to all that have helped, including Preston Kirby for researching the possible dinner locations.
• The anniversary dinner will take place of the regular December meeting and will be RAS’s 723^rd consecutive monthly meeting.

• We briefly discussed the group purchase of the RASC Observer’s Handbooks.  After looking at the 2008 and 2009 versions, we decided we needed to approach the membership before deciding.  Motion was table.

• Tim Streagle presented a legal insurance agreement for the RAS Board to consider.  If accepted, RAS would be legally covered for any liability concerns at events held at the Boy Scout Camp in Goochland.  The main concern would be for the allowance of minors at events.  It will be passed on to our legal representative for their approval.

Next Board meeting will be Monday, February 15^th, 2010 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.

• Meeting was adjourned at 8:47pm.

 Attendees:

• Jim Browder, President
• Gary Cowardin, Vice President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• Chris McCann, Secretary
• John Barnett, Observatory Director
• Preston Kirby
• Bill Jeffries
• Jeff Pike 

Treasurer’s report given by Jim Blowers.

Balance Summary:

• General Fund:                $7150.85
• Observatory Fund:           $198.28
• TOTAL:                         $7349.13
• Checking Account:        $2327.47
• Savings Account:           $2857.22
• Certificate of Deposit:    $2164.44
• Pay Pal Acct:                          0.00
• TOTAL:                          $7349.13

Treasurer’s report approved by board.

�
Observatory Report:

• John Barnett reported that grass  cutting is going well, and gave a general reminder of the maintenance schedule (grass cutting, …) duties through October, 2009.

• John reported that a section of the fence is still falling down and allows entrance into the RAS Observatory property.  John will attempt to meet with the RAS legal authority and our Chesterfield political authority. He has been in conversation with Reverend Wilson about the common fence that is between the shopping center and all adjacent properties.  According to arrangements made long ago, the shopping center is responsible for repairing the fence.
• Three (3) formal training classes will be planned in late October for new staff members.  Classes will cover the overall set-up and history, a telescope demo (securing the telescope), and finding objects with the telescope.
•  There was a concern about the observatory funds falling off in the budget.
• He was interested in looking into the use of solar panels for some of the electrical power. 

New Business:

• Concerned about the new website to be used by RAS, including login for editing, brightness of screen if it was to used during night observing (consider dark background).  Preston Kirby made a motion to conditionally accept the new RAS website, with a provision to go back to the old one in a year if necessary.  Passed with 1 abstention.
• Brief discussion about the loaning of RAS telescopes to club members.  It was strongly suggested that contracts need to be written and signed by both parties, for reasons of tracking the location of RAS equipment.
• Concerns over the use of the new Yahoo blog site, separate from the new RAS webpage.  Result:  traffic is low, so blog site will be discontinued.  It was decided that future RAS communications (webpages) will not be separate from the website, but will be developed “through” the RAS website.
• RAS 60^th anniversary:  Suggestion made for a full catered picnic and observation activities to be held at the Boy Scout camp in Maidens.  Most members felt as if the observatory activity would keep spouses away.  The board decided to consider having a similar event as the 50^th anniversary at Embassy Suites.  A decision was made for Preston to research what was available at area hotels and meeting facilities.  Instead of having the celebration close to the actual October 15 anniversary, the dinner can be held at a local establishment in early December and will replace our standard December party.  Possible speaker candidate (Kathy Thornton) was mentioned.  There was an idea to get original RAS documents and photos, and have them on display at the dinner. 
• Jim Browder reminded us about the website called Café Press, where items with the RAS logo are for sale. 
• Jeff Pike volunteered to be the Chairman of the 2010 RAS Board Nomination Committee.  He will be assisted by Chris McCann.

Next Board meeting will be Monday, November 16^th, 2009 at Extra Billy’s at 7pm.  If you want to come early for dinner, come by at 6pm.

• Meeting was adjourned at 8:31pm.

Attendees:

• Jim Browder, President
• Gary Cowardin, Vice President
• Jim Blowers, Treasurer
• John Barnett, Observatory Director
• Preston Kirby

Notes from previous meeting accepted.

Treasurer’s report (presented by Jim Blowers):

Balance Summary:

66 members, drop from 73 last year for Astronomical League role.

• General Fund:      $7,460.89
• Observatory Fund:    $236.25
• TOTAL:             $7,697.14
• Checking Account:  $2,725.44
• Savings Account:   $2,855.79
• Certificate of Deposit: $2,115.91
• Pay Pal Acct:                0.00
• TOTAL:                  $7,697.14

Treasurer’s report approved by board.

Observatory Director’s Report (presented by John Barnett):

• John replaced clock.
• Observatory has acquired an artificial star for collimating telescopes.  May be used by members to collimate their personal scopes.  Will have it deployed at next observatory open house for members to test their scopes and it will be available after that time upon request from John Barnett.
• Dick Ryan and Bill Jeffries did the last lawn mower duty.  Gary and Jim Petty are next up for lawn duty.

Education Report

• John Raymond appointed education outreach coordinator.
• University of Richmond / Society of Physics Students, about 150 attendees; went very well
• Caroline County – David Medici, scheduled for May 27 (John Barnett, maybe Betty Wilson have indicated that they may attend)
• Impromptu session at Goochland Scout Camp
• Brandermill request for skywatch; John Raymond to address.

Library Report

• Observed that we should specifically invite Virginia to Board meetings

Other Reports

• Virginia Solar / Lunar Convention and Imaging Conference held on April 4.  Went very well; logistics good; attendance somewhat light, but very reasonable considering this is the first year.
• Astronomy Day – Thanks to Kathy Fatyga, Laura Graham, Gary Cowardin, Bill Jeffries, Dick Ryan, Joanne Baker, Jim Blowers, Phil Roberts, Neal Kinder, Prashant Reddy, Leslie Bochenski and David Hagan.
  Blog entry:  http://richastro.blogspot.com/

Old Business

• Discussion on meeting date – will retain second Tuesday for now.

New Business

• Update on meeting location – will continue with SMV in Eureka Theater or Planetarium
• Goochland lighting ordinance – Laura Graham following.
• Education outreach coordinator – John Raymond appointed to this position.
• Web site refresh in progress – Terry Barker preparing template; Jim Blowers and Chris McCann will test when available.
• Some problems updating web site, now functional.  Observed that we need to keep Jim Blowers and Chris at a minimum in loop on updates.  Consensus is that web site needs refresh.
• 60^th anniversary gathering:  Preston Kirby has obtained one quote – Holiday Inn near Science Museum, $35/person.  Might check “The Place” at Innsbrook, Embassy Suites or Science Museum (catered); discussion around a semi-formal dinner with spouses with a speaker/slides.  Consensus – tentatively suggest Thursday, October 15.  Gary will provide audio visual equipment.  Decorations?  Mailed invitations?  Preston will be on committee.  Gary, John and Preston will help with local legwork.  Need a speaker (Kathryn … at UVA)
• Reminder – Neil DeGrasse Tyson – Richmond Forum, November 14.  Question raised as to whether we could invite him to a skywatch Friday, November 13 or maybe have a coffee with him.
• Club observing sessions at Goochland Scout Camp – would like to schedule specific dates with Tim Streagle at the Camp.  Jim Browder will consult with Tim.
• Makemie Woods site available – Bill Jeffries, suggestion made to check with Bill and see if he will lead an expedition to Makemie Woods, consider doing a regular event there.
• Image display makeover; existing wooden display not acceptable for use.  John Barnett will check prints; Gary will reprint on laser printer to update display.

Next Board Meeting – August 17

Meeting adjourned