by Larry Kane, Assistant Director

On Sunday, April 26, the AAAP was very well received by the public attending the 45th annual Princeton Communiversity Day. Representing our group of astronomers were Gene Ramsey, John Church, Jim Poinsett, Wasi Rahman, my wife Marlene and myself. Though the clouds were less than accommodating for our intended solar observing, we were able to talk to many of the public and gave away 65 AAAP brochures, lots of freebies donated by Astronomy Magazine, about forty of my old astronomy magazines and several AAAP membership applications. Those of us who were able to take part in this event concurred that our presence had a positive impact on those with whom we interacted. If they were not aware of the AAAP before Communiversity Day, they are now.

May is going to bring an important event to the Washington Crossing Park . On Sunday, May 17, 2015, the Washington Crossing Park Association (WCPA) will be hosting a “Walk in the Park with George.” The event is being facilitated by the WCPA as a fundraising event. If you would like to walk with the General and his many admirers; expect to see balloons, commemorative T-shirts, bottles of water and lots of happy smiles. Beginning at the Park Visitor Center, the General will lead the walk to the Johnson Ferry House and back, about one mile. Longer paths are available for those needing more fresh air. The WCPA has offered the AAAP a table at the event. I plan to staff the table to hand out AAAP brochures, freebies from Astronomy magazine and lots of verbiage about astronomy to the interested public. If you would like to spend some time at our table, please let me know.

This is an event to raise funds for the maintenance of the Johnson Ferry House in the park. All registrants that sign up before May 7 will receive a T-shirt. After that date, shirts will be provided based upon availability. On the day of the event, registrations starts at 8:30 a.m and the walk begins at 9:00 a.m. Prior to the day of the event, registration is $20 for and adult and $10 for a child 8-17 years of age. On the day of the event, registration will be $30 for adults and $20 for children. Children under the age of 8 are free.

If you would like to spend some pleasant hours to support the park in which our observatory is sited, then please consider signing up for this walk. Feel free to contact me for more information.