June 15, 1996 - 13TH Annual Summer Solstice Star Party Report.

It was a warm summer afternoon, in the 80's and Pat and his kids had come from Gaylord, MI. They were the first to show up. We had set all the perimeter markings, made the signs, and set up the registration desk. Everything was ready, finally. Lawn was mowed, cleaning was done, and the Porta-potti was delivered. Now, we just wait for folks. About 3:00, people started trickling in. The barbeque pit was fired up at 5:00 and by this time about 40 people were there. Special thanks to John White for cooking. I had a chance to stroll around and meet with old friends and met some new friends. I found out that several people lived right in the neighborhood, and was pleased they found us. Some new observing friends close by, maybe. While I was talking with someone, my wife and daughter conspired with many attendees, to suprise me with a birthday celebration for No. 40. Black balloons, candles, etc. They caught it all on video tape. That was fun. Special thanks to Harry and Ada for the special cake. And to my family, for adding a special memory for this party. At 7:00 I gave a brief slide show of the Texas Star Party. By 9:00 the place was pretty full. We had an estimate of 80-90 people here. Lots of scopes set up. Jack Kennedy brought his motor home, so he and his wife were set for sleeping arrangements. The sky conditions were clear, but hazy. One of the worst non-cloudy observing sessions we have had in a long time. But, that didn't dampen any spirits, save mine. The whirr of motors and buzzing and bustling of observers started up as twilight ended. I had a chance to show some of the new people, and some of the veterans, objects of interest through the 20 inch. Someone was taking astro-photos through the 12.5 inch, most of the night, so all equipment was getting used. That was great to see. I also had a chance to look through Ryad's 6 inch refractor at Jupiter and Saturn. That was outstanding. The night rolled on, and soon dawn approached. By now, most had left, but there were still about a dozen people left. I retired for sleep at about 5:00. At 9:00, we helped Ryad break down his mount. Later, Jack and Marge left in there motor home, which was our last goodbye for this years party. Thank you all for a wondrous and enjoyable event. Next year, we are planning on making this a full weekend.