Lakeland Community College to host 'Resources for the Eclipse' event

Chad Felton, The News-Herald, Willoughby, Ohio
·2 min read

Mar. 29—Lakeland Community College is hosting a pre-eclipse event dubbed "Resources for the Eclipse" at 11 a.m. April 1 in its campus library at 7700 Clocktower Drive in Kirtland.

The event is free and open to the public with free parking.

Astronomy instructor Joe Peterlin will describe and discuss solar eclipses, including historical information and personal photos and video from the "Great American Eclipse of 2017," which was half as long as the forthcoming eclipse and witnessed by about 20 million people from Oregon to South Carolina.

Librarian and associate professor Megan Mamolen will present a research guide about the April 8 eclipse, including library resources and local viewing opportunities.

With Lake County directly in the path of totality — set to enter Ohio near Greenville in Darke County and exit near Avon Lake in Lorain County — the phenomenon is expected to be witnessed by millions more than the 2017 event, officials noted, adding when the moon completely obscures the sun, it will be up to four minutes and 27 seconds.

Additionally, Lake County will have several "prime viewing areas," with the center line of the eclipse traversing Lake Erie approximately five miles due north of Mentor.

Lakeland officials previously announced that the college will be closed April 8.

Moreover, the Lake County Emergency Management Agency is expecting the population of the county to be two to four times larger than a normal day which will lead to heavy transportation conditions with potential gridlock throughout the day.

"Taking lessons learned from previous large gatherings, including the NBA Championship Parade (in 2016), and incorporating those into the planning process will allow Lake County to lessen the impact of the day on our infrastructure, making it safe and safe and enjoyable for everyone," said Lake County EMA Director Joe Busher.

The agency is also predicting limited cellphone and radio communication services due to heightened network use.

"Due to the potential for traffic and communications challenges, closing the college will allow our students and campus community to plan accordingly," said Lakeland President Morris Beverage Jr.

According to data, the eclipse will be the last to appear in North America until 2044, with the next total solar eclipse in Ohio set to occur in 2444.