Happy Groundhog’s Day!
If you haven’t heard by now, the most popular groundhog in the US has declared his forecast, on this second day of February …

My faithful followers I clearly see,
a perfect clear shadow of me,
6 more weeks of Winter it shall be.

That’s right – six more weeks of Winter if you believe the little guy. Although he’s been wrong before, and some folks are DONE with deep freeze this season. Some parts of the country are seeing the trees fill in with green leaves and daffodils popping up early. What do you think?

Here are some fun facts about the nation’s furry friend:

1. Yes, Punxsutawney Phil is the only true weather forecasting groundhog. The others are just imposters.

2. There has been only one Punxsutawney Phil. Punxsutawney Phil gets his longevity from drinking “groundhog punch” (a secret recipe). One sip, which is administered every summer at the Groundhog Picnic, gives him seven more years of life.

3. On February 2nd, Phil comes out of his burrow on Gobbler’s Knob, in front of thousands of faithful followers from all over the world, to predict the weather for the rest of the winter.

4. According to legend, if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather. If he does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring.

5. No, Punxsutawney Phil’s forecasts are not made in advance by the Inner Circle. After Phil emerges from his burrow on February 2nd, he speaks to the Groundhog Club President in Groundhogese. His proclamation is then translated for the world.

6. The celebration of Groundhog Day began with the Germans, Pennsylvania’s earliest settlers. They brought with them the legend of Candlemas Day, which states “For as the sun shines on Candlemas day, so far will the snow swirl in May…”. The settlers found that groundhogs were plentiful and were the most intelligent and sensible animal to carry on the legend of Candlemas Day.

7. Punxsutawney held its first Groundhog Day in the 1800’s. The first official trek to Gobbler’s Knob made on February 2nd, 1887.

8. So the story goes, Punxsutawney Phil was named after King Phillip. Prior to being called Phil, he was called Br’er Groundhog.

We are prepped and ready for 6 more weeks of Winter here at Classic. Even if that six weeks turns into two and Spring comes in like the Lion she claims to be, we’re ready. Like we always say, off season is our season, so bring it on. Guess what our forecast is for tomorrow? Freezing, with a chance of ice and snow. Thanks Phil.

Photo Credits:
Menomonie High
Washington Post
CBS News
PBS