By Jessica Mathews / news2whmi.com


Reducing light pollution for night sky viewing and local impacts will be the focus of a popular lunch series event next week.

The Livingston County Planning Department’s Brown Bag Lunch Series brings together planning professionals, local governments and others in an informal setting to share ideas and network. Next week’s edition will feature Robert Parrish of Edwardsburg, Michigan.

Parrish has been a delegate to the International Dark Sky Association for the past five years and was said to be very active in getting the Dr. Lawless Park in Cass County recognized as both an International Dark Sky Park and a Michigan Dark Sky Preserve.

Local officials say they’re looking forward to hearing from Parrish on the topic of reducing light pollution for night sky viewing and how it affects the quality and enjoyment of recreational amenities throughout Livingston County.

Parrish is a graduate of Western Michigan University and the current Vice-President of the Cass County Parks and Recreation Board and a member of both the Michiana Astronomical Society and the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society.

The Brown Bag Lunch Series is back to being held in-person and will run from noon to 1pm next Wednesday at the Oceola Township Hall. Virtual options are also available. Details can be found in the attached flyer.