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Gov. Kathy Hochul has launched a statewide effort to protect New Yorkers ahead of the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. The effort includes statewide distribution of limited-edition I LOVE NY eclipse glasses at 30 locations throughout the state, as well as a reminder for stargazers to be wary of scams, fake merchandise and phony accommodation listings.
In addition, the governor expanded an I LOVE NY campaign to urge New Yorkers to take proper safety precautions during the eclipse.
“The total solar eclipse will be a once-in-a-generation experience for our state, and it’s critical that New Yorkers have the tools and information to enjoy it safely,” Hochul said. “From heightening awareness of scams to providing thousands of New Yorkers with eclipse glasses, I’m focused on giving everyone the resources they need to safely experience this extraordinary event.”
Hochul’s team said, “On April 8, a total solar eclipse will encompass the western and northern parts of New York state with the roughly 100-mile-wide path of totality entering in the southwestern part of the state at just after 3:15 p.m. and departing Northern New York just before 3:30 p.m. Cities and towns within this path include Jamestown, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Watertown, Old Forge, Lake Placid and Plattsburgh. The entire event will last for up to 2½ hours, marking the time the sun is first obstructed to the last moments when the moon’s shadow is cast.”
I LOVE NY Eclipse Glasses
Hochul’s team stated, “During the eclipse, it is especially unsafe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection and can result in serious injury. The partial phases of the solar eclipse can only be safely observed directly with specialized eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer – regular sunglasses are not a safe replacement.”
A limited quantity of I LOVE NY eclipse glasses will be available at locations throughout the state, including New York State Welcome Centers and select service areas along the New York State Thruway (at the Applegreen C-Stores). A full list of locations distributing I LOVE NY glasses, as well as other sources for eclipse glasses, are available here. Glasses will be limited to two pairs per person, while supplies last, with a limited amount distributed daily. The glasses were approved by the New York State Department of Health and carry an ISO certification.
Image courtesy of Destination Niagara
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Monday will boast many distinct eclipse-viewing options across Western New York, with different happenings planned at each site. Regardless of the activity, organizers have one common goal: visual safety.
“What’s important to know is that eye protection is very important,” said Dr. Thomas R. Elmer, a board-certified ophthalmologist and physician at Fichte, Endl & Elmer Eyecare. “Normal sunglasses are great for protecting against ultraviolet light, but they won’t protect your eyes while directly viewing the sun. You must have certified eclipse glasses to view the sun safely during the eclipse. Permanent sun damage can occur without feeling any pain at all.”
Dr. Thomas R. Elmer holds an eye model. (Submitted photo)
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Fichte, Endl & Elmer Eyecare will host a “Total Eclipse Party” from noon to 5 p.m. April 8 at its office at 6500 Porter Road.
Event organizers said, “Located in The Town of Niagara, it is the perfect viewing location for the event,” which will be highlighted by the solar eclipse at 3:20 p.m.”
This free family gathering will include a live band performing in the Fichte, Endl & Elmer Eyecare parking lot; llamas for children to see and pet; and the optical boutique will be open, so shop around for some sunglasses. In addition, there will be free parking, free solar eclipse glasses, and free hot dogs. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or a blanket.
Pre-event glasses are no longer available.
Dr. Michael J. Endl said, "We are so excited about the April 8 solar eclipse that we are throwing a party! Western New York is one of the lucky regions of the country that falls directly in the ‘path of totality.’ This means we will see the moon completely block out the sun for up to three minutes in the middle of the afternoon.
“Not only is this a phenomenon that hasn't happened in WNY for 99 years, it's also important for us to attempt to educate the public on eyewear for safe viewing. We will be passing out ISO-approved safety glasses at our free eclipse party. It is vitally important to your eyesight not to look at the eclipse without ISO-approved eyewear. If you do, you risk permanent retina injury resulting in decreased vision.”
Pictured in front of the “Fichtemobile” are, from left, Dr. Thomas R. Elmer, Dr. Michael J. Endl and Dr. Claus M. Fichte. (Submitted photo)
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Protecting Stargazers From Scams
The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is providing tips for the hundreds of thousands of consumers planning to travel to New York to witness the solar eclipse. It said, “Consumers need to be informed of their rights, shop smartly to safeguard their hard-earned money, and stay vigilant to protect themselves from scams.”
According to the Better Business Bureau, scams associated with the 2024 solar eclipse may include:
√ Travel Scams: Scammers may advertise discounted travel packages or transportation services for viewing the eclipse, only to disappear with customers’ money or provide subpar services.
√ Fake Merchandise: Unscrupulous vendors might sell counterfeit or overpriced eclipse-themed merchandise.
√ Phony Accommodation Listings: Scammers could create false hotel or rental listings claiming to have optimal views of the eclipse while these listings may not exist or properties may not be as described, or the lister is not really the owner.
To safeguard against these scams, consumer should:
√ Try to Pay with a Credit Card. Credit cards often offer more protection than paying by cash, check or debit card. Some credit card companies also offer perks like trip insurance or concierge service while traveling, and may offer additional protections if the trip is canceled. Check with your credit card company on the conditions of travel expenditure reimbursement.
√ Purchasing Merchandise. Purchase eclipse viewing glasses and other related products only from reputable vendors or verified sources. Look to see if the glasses include the ISO stamp and message. When seeking eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers, your best bet is to start with the AAS list of suppliers so you can be sure your viewers are safe.
√ Personal Information. Exercise caution when providing personal or financial information online. This advice is good all year round, not just for the eclipse.
√ Do Your Research. Verify the legitimacy of accommodation listings by researching the property and reading reviews from trusted sources.
Any consumer who encounters a marketplace problem while enjoying the eclipse in New York can file a complaint with the DCP at https://dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.
Additional Preparations for Total Solar Eclipse
Hochul’s team said, “New York state is committed to providing a safe and fun eclipse experience, recognizing the convergence of public safety and tourism promotion. Travelers are encouraged to plan an extended getaway for a more enjoyable event, including avoiding post-eclipse traffic like the massive backups following the ‘Great Eclipse of 2017,’ which bisected the United States from Oregon to South Carolina.”
Educational Information and Viewing
Earlier this month, Hochul announced the eclipse events and activities scheduled at New York's state parks, in coordination with NASA. I LOVE NY has launched the multi-platform “Come for the Eclipse, Stay for New York” campaign to present New York as the place to be to witness this event. The campaign and a special eclipse website highlight viewing location information in the five regions that will experience the path of totality, a variety of attractions and special eclipse-related events happening across the state across its digital platforms including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Twitter/X. A downloadable special edition eclipse poster is also available, created through I LOVE NY's partnership with acclaimed artist and professional astronomer Dr. Tyler Nordgren. Visit iloveny.com/eclipse for viewing locations and additional safety tips.
Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, “The excitement is building for this extraordinary celestial event happening for the first time in 99 years. As hundreds of thousands of solar eclipse enthusiasts visit and travel throughout our state, we urge New Yorkers and tourists alike to be vigilant and follow our tips so they can enjoy the eclipse without becoming prey to fraudulent schemes.”
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Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “New York’s prime location in the path of totality for this rare total solar eclipse has generated substantial interest from residents and visitors alike. Under Gov. Hochul's leadership, we’re working to ensure viewer safety through multi-agency public safety coordination and the distribution of complementary I LOVE NY eclipse glasses. This once-in-a-lifetime event will further support our vital tourism industry, benefiting hotels, restaurants and businesses, as eclipse enthusiasts explore viewing locations throughout the state.”
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “As part of New York state’s multi-agency coordination effort, state agencies under Gov. Hochul’s direction are working in unison to make sure that the upcoming solar eclipse is as enjoyable and safe as possible. New York state will be one of the primary destinations for people hoping to catch a rare glimpse of this natural wonder, which will provide new opportunities for the economy and tourism, along with unique traffic challenges. If you are coming to New York to enjoy this event, please come prepared with food and water; please be patient, as you may encounter traffic, and please do not park on the side of the roads – so emergency vehicles can safely access the roadways. The team at NYSDOT is planning to ensure that everyone not only enjoys the eclipse safely, but hopefully takes in some more sights while they’re here.”
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The most important step to ensure New Yorkers enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime event is to protect your eyes. ISO-certified eclipse glasses will shield your eyes from serious and possibly permanent damage, which can occur by looking at the eclipse with regular sunglasses or without any eye protection. I am grateful Gov. Hochul is making the specialized glasses available in dozens of locations around the state to ensure this experience is a safe and enjoyable one.”
Mark J.F. Schroeder, commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee said, “This is an exciting day for New Yorkers and our visitors to experience a rare phenomenon, and we want to make sure everyone can do so safely. If you’re driving during the eclipse, be prepared to experience sudden darkness, and do not try to look at the eclipse while you’re in motion. Find a place to park if you want to look, and make sure you have proper eyewear. You should also be aware that traffic in viewing areas will be heavier, so expect delays and take it slow.”
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Modern: Residential trash and recycling services will be pushed one day during week of April 8
Modern Disposal Services Press Release
Due to the anticipated traffic volume and activities during the solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, Modern will not be operating collections services. All residential services will be pushed one day (i.e., Monday service pushed to Tuesday, Tuesday service pushed to Wednesday, Friday service pushed to Saturday). This provides an extra safety measure and gives everyone the opportunity to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.
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"Eclipse Across America" photo courtesy of ABC News // ©2024 American Broadcasting Companies Inc.
‘Unprecedented’ live event to broadcast rare total solar eclipse
√ Reporting live across North America, 2-hour special will be anchored by ABC News’ David Muir & Linsey Davis; will feature National Geographic talent Mariana van Zeller & Nat Geo Explorer Cristina Mittermeier
Press Release
On Monday, April 8, at least 32 million people across America will find themselves in the path of a total solar eclipse, where the moon will completely block the sun in what will be the last of its kind in the U.S. until 2044. To celebrate this rare moment, ABC News and National Geographic announce the unparalleled event “Eclipse Across America,” airing live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. EDT on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu, as well as network social media platforms. The special will be anchored by “World News Tonight” anchor David Muir and “ABC News Live Prime” anchor Linsey Davis, who will be reporting live from Burlington, Vermont.
Nat Geo talent Mariana van Zeller (“Trafficked”) and Nat Geo Explorers photographer Cristina Mittermeier (“Photographer”), astrophotographer Babak Tafreshi, and astrophysicists Jedidah Isler and Ved Chirayath will be on site to show viewers how to safely observe and photograph eclipses and break down the science and history behind them.
Spanning 10 cities across North America – from Mazatlán, Mexico, to Houlton, Maine – with each being in 100% totality of the eclipse, “Eclipse Across America” will broadcast from the following locations experiencing the phenomenon firsthand:
•Mazatlán, Mexico – Approximately 2:07-2:11 p.m. with ABC News correspondent Matt Rivers
•Del Rio, Texas – Approximately 2:28-2:32 p.m. with ABC News national correspondent Mireya Villarreal and van Zeller
•Dallas – Approximately 2:40-2:44 p.m. with “GMA3” co-anchors DeMarco Morgan and ABC News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton, and a live check-in with Tafreshi at Frio Cave
•Russellville, Arkansas – Approximately 2:51-2:54 p.m. with ABC News foreign correspondent Maggie Rulli with hundreds of couples saying “I do” at the “Total Eclipse of the Heart” mass wedding
•Carbondale, Illinois – Approximately 2:59-3:05 p.m. with ABC News chief meteorologist Ginger Zee and Isler at Southern Illinois University
•Indianapolis, Indiana – Approximately 3:06-3:09 p.m. with “Good Morning America” weekend co-anchor Gio Benitez at the Indy 500 Speedway
•Cleveland – Approximately. 3:13-3:17 p.m. with “Good Morning America” weekend co-anchor Whit Johnson at the Great Lakes Science Center
•Niagara Falls – Approximately 3:18-3:22 p.m. with ABC News meteorologist Rob Marciano and Mittermeier close to the falls. ABC News multiplatform reporter Reena Roy will be reporting live from this location for ABC NewsOne, the affiliate news service of ABC News
•Burlington, Vermont – Approximately 3:26-3:29 p.m. with Muir and Davis at ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
•Houlton, Maine – Approximately 3:32-3:35 p.m., at one of the last communities in America to see the eclipse
“Eclipse Across America” will simulcast live from 2-4 p.m. across multiple Disney linear networks, including ABC, Nat Geo and Nat Geo WILD, as well as across direct-to-consumer platforms, including Disney+ and Hulu (via ABC News Live channel). Viewers will be able to watch the program from anywhere – TV, mobile, computers and more – on ABC News’ 24/7 streaming channel, ABC News Live. The live event will also be simulcast on social on ABC News’ Facebook, YouTube channel and TikTok, plus on Nat Geo’s Facebook. ABC News and Nat Geo will produce social-first content to be posted across all platforms during the eclipse.
Audiences can use the hashtag #EclipseAcrossAmerica to post content to their own social feeds throughout the day, which may then be featured on air. Mittermeier will curate photos from National Geographic photographers and Explorers, as well as from people across the path of the eclipse using the hashtag during the live broadcast.
“We are thrilled to partner with National Geographic on an unprecedented, multiplatform watch event for this highly anticipated natural phenomenon,” said Reena Mehta, SVP of streaming and digital content for ABC News. “Bringing audiences together across multiple Disney platforms on all devices will ensure that no one misses a moment live or on demand.”
“This collaboration between Nat Geo and ABC is a dream come true. With Nat Geo’s 136-year expertise in factual storytelling combined with trusted anchors from the country’s leading news source, ABC News, this partnership is unmatched,” said Tom McDonald, EVP of unscripted for National Geographic Content. “I can think of no better way to bring this thrilling event to audiences.”
In addition to the live simulcast across multiple Disney platforms, “GMA3” will air a special live preview with Morgan and Dr. Ashton on location in Dallas and with Eva Pilgrim from New York from 1-2 p.m.. “World News Tonight with David Muir” and ABC New Live’s “Prime with Linsey Davis” will originate broadcasts from Burlington. “Good Morning America” will get viewers ready for the eclipse with a preview of what’s to come, safety tips, the economic impact, and the unique ways people are marking the celestial event. “Nightline” will give context on the phenomenon from across the country and will showcase the best pictures of the eclipse taken throughout the day. ABC News Digital will feature robust coverage around the eclipse, including a live blog on ABCNews.com, reporting on how to watch and photograph the celestial event, and a multimedia project profiling the impact of the rare event. ABC News Radio correspondent Jim Ryan will file reports from the eclipse path in Texas. ABC News’ flagship daily podcast, “Start Here,” will include reporting and reactions from the ABC News correspondents in the eclipse path the following morning.
In honor of the eclipse, beginning April 1, National Geographic and Spotify will refresh the Official National Geographic Playlist to be centered on the eclipse for one week. Separately, Nat Geo experts will share tips for the best places to watch, how to safely photograph the eclipse, how witnessing one can change your perspective, and reporting on how it may change animal behavior on NatGeo.com.
For more information, visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or follow Nat Geo on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
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