Minutes of Meeting – 23 October 2009
Melbourne Astronomical Society

Meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm on 23 October 2009 by President Ron Netzley.

Treasurers Report – Rick Young
            - We have 14 regular members plus
            - 5 student members, 8 regular and 1 supporting
            - Starting balance was $948.08
            - Income $20 (4 new student memberships)
            - Current balance reported is $968.08
                       
SAS Report – David Meents
            - During the last SAS meeting the scale model of the solar system was discussed.
            - SAS President, Andrew Colson can be reached by acolson@fit.edu

Upcoming Star Parties

1. Saturday, 24 October, Cub Scout Star Party at Wickham Park
2. Saturday, 14 November, Barrier Island Sanctuary (north of Sebastian Inlet) 5:00pm – 9:00pm
3. Tuesday, 17 November, Quest Elementary School (Viera) 7:00pm-9:00pm
4. Saturday, 21 November, Erna Nixon Moonlight Stroll, 7:00pm-10:00pm

                                               
Banner for Erma Nixon Park
-     It was reported that BAS is having a 68” x 15” sign made specifically for Erna Nixon Park.  A motion was made by Dr. Matt Wood and seconded by Peter Scheuter that we offer to pay half of the sign cost if they will include MAS on the sign.  Motion passed.  BAS members attending relay the request.

Orion Guider Report – Peter Scheuter

• Peter reported that the purchase in on hold until he can inspect the FIT scopes and determine what is needed.

MAS Business Cards

• Discussion was held regarding the design and content of new business cards for the club.  It was suggested that something more than the logo would be more attractive.  It was agreed that Matt would take the content input and discuss it with the artist (creator of the MAS logo).
• Harmony Dark Sky Festival – 19 April 2010
• The organizers of the Dark Sky Festival have suggested that it may be two nights rather than just one night as was done in prior years.  After discussion, the group agreed that a single night (Saturday) would be our primary interest.  Ron agreed to contact the Harmony chairperson.

Asteroid Occultation – 20 November 2009, ~10:38 pm EST

• An upcoming asteroid occultation that will be seen in central Florida was discussed.  If anyone is interested in observing this and timing the occultation, information can be found on the IOTA website and other sites including:  www.tinyurl.com/mdjrrh.   Please use the MAS list server to keep everyone informed of your preparations.

The  business meeting was adjourned before 7:30

Rick Young presented some photographs of the Milky Way (with dark sky) and Yerkes Observatory from has recent Iowa trip.

Minutes recorded by Phil Henderson.