Indiana News:  Prepare for the coming solar eclipse.

Greetings 1961 Classmates:

Maybe you’ve heard the news:  On April 8, 2024, the solar eclipse will begin about 1:45pm and will become a total eclipse at 3:15pm.  It’s the first time in 819 years an eclipse will be visible in Indiana.  A total eclipse is described by folks in the know as “an event as none other.”

        Another news article for you.

The eclipse track across Indiana will begin in the southwest, Knox County (Vincennes) and close in east central area, Wayne County (Richmond).  Prime viewing is expected between Lebanon to Greensburg.

The good Indiana business of tourism is way excited; predictions range the Indiana guest count from 250,000 to an excess of over 2.0 million.  Hotel sales are booming, many already sold out.  Hotels are booking 3-day blocks, including special events and appropriate glasses.  Naturally, room rates will soar.  In Orange County expect the French Lick/West Baden properties to take full advantage.  Thus far the best promotional theme has got to be “Get Mooned in Boone,” Lebanon.

For Indiana residents the word is stay home to do your observing.  (The State is not trusting its drivers when the strange darkness decends.)  The stay at home observes are advised to “go to the backyard” and purchase special glasses in advance.

So, out of state friends, this spectacle is a reason to return home for the excitement.  For us current Indiana residents, now is time to think about buying those special glasses before prices inflate.  And let’s all hope for blue skies come April 8.

Dick McCracken

Madison, Indiana