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9^th Annual Sip & Stars Event

Welcomes Stargazers and Lifelong Learners

When is the last time you kicked back and did some stargazing? As the Perseids Meteor Shower hits its annual summer peak, Hitchcock Academy invites you to do just that at its 9^th annual Sip & Stars fundraiser for the nonprofit community center. With generous support from Country Bank, Rapscallion Brewery, Brimfield Winery and B.T.’s Smokehouse, Hitchcock will welcome stargazers to the fields of the Brimfield Winery on Saturday, August 12^th (Rain date August 13^th) starting at 6pm, for a guided tour of the night sky, complemented by sips of local beer and wine. The signature summer celebration highlights the community building and life-long learning for which Hitchcock is known, while encouraging us all to slow down and enjoy one of life’s simplest pleasures.

Visibility is expected to be especially clear due to the waning of the moon. Guests can expect to learn about constellations, the planets, meteors, and more as members of the Aldrich Astronomical Society offer a guided tour of the night sky as well as telescopes for up-close viewing of the meteors. The Perseids Meteor Shower has been known to boast 50 to 100 meteors per hour. Aldrich Astronomical Society (AAS), was founded in 1932 and is one of the oldest amateur astronomy clubs in the United States and is dedicated to promoting an understanding of the night sky.

“Learning is at the heart of Hitchcock’s mission, along with building community,” says Executive Director Cindy Skowrya. “So this event is a special one for us, in that it showcases what we are all about, and is one of several key fundraisers that allow us to continue to offer opportunities for learning and connection to the community.”

Admission includes a full pour of Brimfield Winery’s own wine or Rapscallion beer. In the early hours before sunset, crowds will enjoy live music from Brickyard Sessions. BT’s Smokehouse will be on site selling food. While picnics may also be brought in, no outside alcoholic beverages are allowed.

Tickets are $25 for patrons 21 and over; under 21 tickets are $10. They can be purchased at www.hitchcockacademy.org or on site while supplies last; advance purchase is encouraged. Attendees should bring blankets or chairs, bug spray and flashlights. Telescopes are also encouraged.

In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to Sunday. A move will be announced on Hitchcock’s Facebook page, and an email will be sent out to all ticket holders.

Hitchcock Academy is a community center located at 2 Brookfield Road in Brimfield serving the community with educational, recreational, and cultural programming. More information can be found at www.hitchcockacademy.org.