Pictured: Mark Ellermann held an eclipse lunch and learn for students and employees on Thursday, March 28th.
You have probably heard that Northeast Texas will be directly in the path of totality for the upcoming total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8th. Area cities are preparing for a large influx of visitors and a strain on the local infrastructure. Northeast Texas Community College will be open on April 8th and is planning an eclipse party that is exclusive to NTCC students and employees. Student Activities will provide approved solar eclipse glasses and snacks on the plaza from 12:30-2:30 p.m. The maximum totality of the eclipse will happen at 1:46 p.m.
The STEM Club will have a limited number of telescopes and binoculars available for enhanced viewing and Mark Ellermann, NTCC’s Astronomy Instructor, will be in attendance to answer questions about the eclipse.
“We are very excited about hosting an eclipse party for our Eagles family. With that being said, we do not have the resources to open our facilities up to the wider community. Surrounding cities are planning some great events and we hope members of the community and visitors will take full advantage of their hospitality,” Kim Irvin, NTCC Associate Vice President for Student Services, said.
Given the anticipated strain on resources, NTCC recommends that students and staff plan ahead of time for April 8th. A few practical tips include:
Fill up your tank ahead of time. An increase in visitors may make it difficult to find fuel for your vehicle.
Give yourself extra time. Previous eclipse events have led to congestion on rural roads.
Stock up on groceries and other supplies. Restaurants and grocery stores will likely be at capacity leading up to the eclipse. Try to have all of your needed items on hand ahead of time.
