FILE - People watch a total solar eclipse in La Higuera, Chile, Tuesday, July 2, 2019. Small towns and rural enclaves along the path of April’s 2024 total solar eclipse are steeling for huge crowds of sun chasers who plan to catch a glimpse of day turning into dusk in North America. (AP Photo/Esteban Felix, File)
Howdy, I’m Ben, and I cover the state Capitol. In an alternate universe, my bio would read that I graduated from college, traveled to Bhutan and trained in martial arts so that one day I could return and defend my city from crime … like Batman.
In reality, I graduated from the University of Richmond in 2021 and joined WITF in June of 2023. In between I was down in Charleston, South Carolina at the Post and Courier.
I like helping people and, in my opinion, one of the best ways to do that is to inform them. That’s why I love reporting and covering politics.
When I’m not working, you will probably see me with my dog Ozzy, consuming an unhealthy amount of coffee or visiting some local bars.
FILE - People watch a total solar eclipse in La Higuera, Chile, Tuesday, July 2, 2019. Small towns and rural enclaves along the path of April’s 2024 total solar eclipse are steeling for huge crowds of sun chasers who plan to catch a glimpse of day turning into dusk in North America. (AP Photo/Esteban Felix, File)
You thought Punxsutawney Phil’s shadow commanded attention in Pennsylvania? Just wait until April 8.
As a solar eclipse crosses the state, many schools will close early, drivers will be at increased risk and even the ability to register to vote might be impaired.
Here’s how this shadow stands to affect life in Pennsylvania.
VOTER REGISTRATION
Erie County is expecting between 50,000 to 250,000 additional people, said Chief Clerk Karen Chillcott.
April 8 is also the final day to register to vote in the 2024 primary.
That created a dilemma for the Great Lakes county: how do we get people registered if the streets are crowded with tourists?
The solution: Extend the deadline to April 9.
This was no simple task as the deadline is set by the state. Chillcott said officials had been in talks with the Department of State and the governor’s office.
“Ultimately, it was decided that any court of competent jurisdiction would be able to make an extension of the deadline to register to vote,” she said.
The county filed a petition with the Court of Common Pleas allowing it to move the deadline to April 9.
Soon after, county commissioners passed a resolution officially moving the date.
OTHER CONCERNS
When looking at the eclipse, be sure to wear eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses will not protect your eyes.
But PennDOT is imploring drivers to not wear eclipse glasses while operating a vehicle.
Additionally, drivers should exit highways rather than stop on the side of the road should they choose to view it.
Myles Snyder, communications director for Pennsylvania State Police, said disabled vehicles will be removed from Interstate 90 around Erie beginning April 4.
On the day of the eclipse, troopers will be posted at each exit along the interstate to ensure nobody is slowing traffic.
Additionally, people stopped at rest stops will be directed by troopers to view the eclipse elsewhere.
Sometimes, your mornings are just too busy to catch the news beyond a headline or two. Don’t worry. The Morning Agenda has got your back. Each weekday morning, host Tim Lambert will keep you informed, amused, enlightened and up-to-date on what’s happening in central Pennsylvania and the rest of this great commonwealth.