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For a few brief minutes next year, the moon will pass in front of the sun. Depending on where people are, they might only catch a partial eclipse, but for the majority in Thermopolis there will be about 51 seconds of totality — where the sun will be totally covered — with the three-hour eclipse itself beginning around 11:30 a.m. Aug. 21, 2017.
The 2017 Solar Eclipse will attract thousands of visitors; already there are population booms expected locally and in the area around Thermopolis, down to Casper, as people travel to view this once in a lifetime event. Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Meri Ann Rush said local hotels are already getting reservations for the date, and there are some educational opportunities planned to make sure the town is prepared in all aspects for the rush.
Eclipse expert John Roche said, “Some will need accommodations and all will need access to areas from which to view the eclipse. Traffic will be heavy. There will be strong demands for food, drink, consumables and souvenirs.”
A committee has been formed to address some of the issues with having such an increase, and it includes representation from Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, RT Communications, Big Horn Basin Foundation, The Wyoming Dinosaur Center, Boysen State Park, Shoshoni Chamber of Commerce and Emergency Management.
The committee would like to encourage businesses and organizations to offer packages, cultural programs and other events to attract eclipse viewers, both the day of the eclipse and those leading up to it. Rush noted the Chamber would already have the annual Demolition Derby that weekend.
Those who plan events, have ideas or would like to be part of the committee can contact the Chamber at 307-864-3192.
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