http://www.skyandtelescope.com/news/home/The-Weakest-Solar-Cycle-in-100-Year... Man, no kidding. I remember seeing huge, "naked-eye" sunspots during the last two solar max's (with proper filtration) that just dwarf even the biggest ones seen this time around. And look at some historical solar photos from mid-century. Some of those sunspots would make you gasp if you saw them today. I was planning on attending the sun party this coming Saturday, but have to attend a funeral for a neighbor that day so plans have changed; too much to get done now. I'll try for Winchester Park again in August. If you can make it, it's a great gathering of solar telescopes of several types and a chance to compare equipment first-hand if you're in the market for a solar scope. Terrific people and a nice location, as well.