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James Hill: Director of the Rainwater Observatory & Planetarium in French Camp, Miss. Jim has been "doing" astronomy since he built his first telescope in 1953. Since his founding of the Rainwater facility in 1985 (in time for Haley's Comet), it has grown to include 15 telescopes, a planetarium, and many other exhibits. Events held at Rainwater include: seasonal "Backyard Astronomy" programs, teacher workshops, and the Mid-South Star Gaze which brings 200 amateur astronomers from the South and Midwest US each April. Over 200 groups each year receive programs through the Observatory's outreach. Jim has been married for 38 years, has 4 grown children, and is now working on grandchildren. He plays violin and viola and builds harpsichrods and restores pipe organs for a hobby.
Taught at the 2001 Mississippi Governor's School Winner of the 2001 Brennan Award from the Astro. Soc. of the Pacific for Astro. Education. Received $7500 V.M. Slipher grant to present 60 "Backyard Astronomy" programs state wide. Was selected a Miss. STAR teacher for the 5th time
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