“I didn’t have time to go out and see it” or “I decided to just stay home and not even go out and take a look at all.” Those two “ho-hum” responses were in the minority. This particular celebrated event did not pass by unnoticed. News reports showed photographs and provided facts and historical information that highlighted this unusual sky-watching opportunity, which occurred almost two weeks ago, on Monday, April 8.
School kids and their teachers, as well as parents who helped them prepare for a safe viewing, were the happiest participants. It didn’t seem to matter if it was a partial or a total eclipse, it was probably their first opportunity to watch this incredible dance between the moon sun, and earth. All most of them wanted to do was share their personal experience whether it be simply donning the special glasses or using a homemade pinpoint device. Finding out that we didn’t have to rush order those cheap glasses from Amazon, as we were told it was safer in some instances to use a kitchen colander. Then it was easy-peasy to get outside at look up at the sky.
The economic burst of activity reported by those small towns who were in the path of total totality of darkness early was unexpected and appreciated. Folks with previous eclipse viewing experiences set out on the road those towns reported boosts to their local coffers.
Anyone who has made a memory of looking up into the sky and watching the changes made by the sun and moon during this infrequent occurrence, considered this last one a momentous occasion worth celebrating. The news reports included interviews with state residents who made extra efforts to travel wherever they could get to get the best experience. Expert sky-watchers say the next event not to be missed will happen in a few years, so it seems that the folks who were underwhelmed with their viewing this year will not have to wait so long for the next event.
By Dolly Viscardi
