JONESBORO, Ark. – Mayor Harold Copenhaver has announced the formation of an Eclipse Oversight Committee in anticipation of the upcoming total solar eclipse set to traverse northeast Arkansas on April 8, 2024. The committee will play a crucial role in overseeing various aspects of Jonesboro’s involvement in the event, including special celebrations and coordination with local businesses and schools.
Chairing the committee will be Cari White, former Chief of Operations at the Chamber of Commerce, who brings valuable experience to the position. White will be joined by representatives from diverse sectors within the Jonesboro community.
Mayor Copenhaver emphasized the significance of the eclipse and the uncertainty surrounding the number of visitors expected to converge on the city. Given the rarity of a total eclipse, the mayor expressed the desire to celebrate and commemorate the occasion with a series of weekend events and activities.
However, due to the unknown influx of visitors, the Eclipse Oversight Committee has been formed to address logistical concerns and ensure a smooth experience for both locals and visitors. The committee’s responsibilities will encompass coordinating special events, collaborating with businesses, and working closely with schools in the area.
Members of the committee include Junior Das, a local businessman, Tiffny Calloway from the NYIT School of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University, Trey Stafford representing the Jonesboro Radio Group, community advocate Sam Hummelstein, Danny Kapales, City Parks Director, Carolina Elmore from The Hispanic Center, Cody Slater, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce, and Sally Smith from the Jonesboro Police Department.
Mayor Copenhaver expressed his gratitude to the committee members, recognizing their deep investment in the betterment of Jonesboro. He particularly commended Cari White for taking on the leadership role within the committee.
After the April, 2024 total solar eclipse, the next will be on August 23, 2044, according to NASA.
During a total solar eclipse, the Moon aligns between the Sun and Earth, resulting in the complete obstruction of the Sun’s face. Observers positioned within the path of totality, where the Moon’s shadow fully covers the Sun, will witness a remarkable event. The sky will darken, resembling the twilight hours of dawn or dusk. Clear weather conditions permitting, those within the path of totality will have the unique opportunity to witness the Sun’s corona, the outer atmosphere typically concealed by the Sun’s brilliant glow.
Be the first to comment