Eclipse Insights open to community

SENECA COUNTY—Community organizers across Seneca County have partnered together to offer Eclipse Insights to educate the community on the upcoming April 8 Total Solar Eclipse. All of Seneca County, along with 34 other counties in northwest Ohio, will be in the area of totality, meaning the sun will be completely blocked by the moon. On Feb. 26, Destination Seneca County will host the Eclipse Insights to assist business owners and community members in preparing for the eclipse. Insight sessions will take place at 9 a.m. at North Central Educational Service Center, 928 W. Market St.; 1 p.m. at the Fostoria Learning Center, 342 Perry St., Fostoria; and 5:30 p.m. at Seneca East Local Schools, 13343 U.S. 224, Attica. Representatives from the Seneca County Emergency Management Agency, Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce/Destination Seneca County, Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership/Downtown Tiffin, Fostoria Economic Development Corporation, Fostoria Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, and Seneca County General Health District will also be in attendance throughout the day's session to assist the community in their preparation efforts. "I feel that it's extremely important that we educate our community about the weekend and the opportunity for a large influx in visitors," said Bryce Riggs, executive director for the Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce/Destination Seneca County. "If our community is prepared and educated, I feel as they will be better equipped to handle the influx of visitors and be a little more understanding about some potential issues that could arise." The Eclipse Insights sessions will include a Seneca County Emergency Management update, which will allow community members to stay informed with the latest safety plans, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of safety protocols. Those in attendance will also gain insight and guidance from local representatives that aim to support the business community. The Seneca County General Health District will also provide guidance regarding the necessary permits and regulations concerning land leasing and food offerings throughout that weekend. "I feel the biggest value for the Eclipse Insights is having a forum that allows our community to get their questions answered by having all of the community partners organizations in one room," Riggs added. Sessions are free and all members of the community, as well as business owners and stakeholders, are welcomed and encouraged to attend. Interested attendees are asked to RSVP in advance online at destinationsenecacounty.org/eclipseplanning. "We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to welcome so many visitors into our community that weekend, as well as an opportunity to have the community enjoy this experience," said Riggs. "There is also an opportunity for local businesses to also see an increased number of potential customers that weekend. We hope that they are able to capitalize on the local economic impact that it could have." For all information pertaining to the Solar Eclipse in Seneca County, visit www.SenecaCountySolarEclipse.com.