June 23, 2016

Aubrey Brickhouse, Pat Brickhouse, and Dean Chandler flank Craig Nance, Superintendent of McDonald Observatory. On June 23, 2016, we had an excellent program on the research activities at McDonald, including the collaborative effort among such universities as Texas A & M and the University of Texas to build the Giant Magellan Telescope in Chile. This effort will be the world's largest telescope and will help in mapping ever more distant sections of the "observable" universe. Craig Nance is a wonderful ambassador for McDonald Observatory, and reminded us that the benefactor of McDonald Observatory wanted an institution for research AND public education. McDonald Observatory has between 80,000 and 100,000 visitors a year. It is a trip worth making, but Craig warned that you should make your reservations early. Even more impressive is the fact that Craig is a member of the Rotary Club of Marfa. He did not explain the famous Marfa lights, but certainly lit up our interest in astronomy.

The Board of Directors shared a sweet celebration to end the Rotary term. We had a very busy year, and a very successful one. Kudos to the Rotary Club of Temple. Bring on the reign of President Hugo!!!

Adam and Mark Soorholtz had a great time at our June 23, 2016 meeting. We always enjoy visits from our Rotarian-in-training.