Season's greetings from all of us at DRBIPA and happy winter solstice!
The December solstice marks the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Derived from Latin, the word solstice means the "sun stands still". It happens on a specific day each year between December 20th and 23rd. It also occurs at a specific time of day, corresponding to the instant the North Pole is aimed farthest away from the sun on the 23.5-degree tilt of the Earth's axis. Winter solstice 2020 will be at 2:02 a.m. on Monday, December 21. Tonight!
Cultures throughout the ages have viewed the winter solstice as a time for hope and resilience, in part, because of having to brave the elements in harsh winter conditions. And for many of us now, the winter solstice is still a time of reflection and new beginnings. Plus, Jupiter and Saturn will line up in the night sky on Dec. 21 in an extremely rare conjunction of the planets that hasn’t happened in nearly 400 years. An interesting and positive distraction for us nature lovers as we end the year and head into winter.
This year has been filled with new and unique challenges for us all. We've had to adapt and creatively solve problems together as a community. We're so thankful for everyone who has worked so hard to keep our parks and outdoor areas open and thriving. Along with all the people who have supported others and found ways to keep connected during these times of uncertainty. We are wishing you all a safe and wonderful holiday season and all the best in 2021!
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