ASU's Astronomy Open House occurred last Friday night. We were all wondering how recent national events would impact attendance. One faculty member predicted only 10 people, instead of our usual 150-200 people. I would estimate that about 100 people showed up. Not too bad for the first event of Fall semester. But I did note that the number of people of Arabic descent was down from previous public viewings. It seems plausible that the hate crimes on campus contributed to their decision to stay away.

Of course, it was revealed today that the first of those attacks was faked - discovered when the alleged "victim" attempted to fake another occurance. Suspicion dawned upon the police when the "victim" was discovered trapped in a bathroom stall locked from the inside. Not too bright, our victim. He has confessed to faking both events. This is not to say that other hate crimes haven't occured on the ASU campus - they have. I do not want to diminish that fact. But 50 international students have left the university since 9/11 - you have to wonder how many had their decisions shaped by the actions of an idiot.

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I was using a telescope to show people the Moon on Friday night. I like the Moon.