Scot Bertram, The Israeli Military is Withdrawing Ground Troops from the Southern Gaza Strip

Here are 3 big things you need to know—

 

One —  Experts across the country are preparing to launch research missions during the eclipse.  NASA will launch planes that will observe the outer layer of the sun and the dust ring that orbits it.  These only become visible when most of the sun's light is blocked out.  Other scientists are set to study the quieting of wildlife, the effect on communications and lowering temperatures.

 

Two— For the second straight year, the Motor City Furry Con has been hit with a bomb threat.  Sunday morning just before 9, a threat forced the Ann Arbor Marriott Ypsilanti at Eagle Creek to be evacuated.  The hotel reopened just after 12:30 p.m. after an investigation determined the threat was not credible.  The convention held its afternoon lineup and charity auction without incident. 

And number three — The Israeli military is withdrawing ground troops from the southern Gaza Strip.  The IDF said on Sunday that its 98th division is leaving the Strip to "recuperate and prepare for future operations."  No further details were given, and it's unclear if the withdrawal is related to Israel's plan to invade the southern city of Rafah, where it says Hamas militants are hiding.