[SJAAboard] Thoughts on requirements for scopes larger than 10"

[Gary Mitchell]

Mark Wagner wrote:

> On Wed, May 14, 2008 9:37 pm, Craig Scull wrote:
> 
> 
>>A loaner telescope serves many purposes, one of which is pre-purchase evaluation. I always think
>>variety is a good thing,
> 
> 
> The other purposes are.... ????
> 
> Again, I think defining the purpose is key to determining what is in the stable.

How about this:

The purpose of the SJAA is to improve public knowledge and interest
in the science of Astronomy.  Anything we do or spend money on
must further our purpose--including the loaner program.  If we
deviate from our purpose, we could lose our 501(c)3 status.

Teaching someone what scope to buy may come along for the ride, but
it shouldn't be *the* purpose of the loaner program.  Otherwise
we'll be toying with commercial considerations.

Gary