KUTZTOWN, Pa. (AP) — The spotlight returns to Gobbler's Knob in western Pennsylvania this week, when handlers of a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil will announce his verdict — six more weeks of winter or an early spring.
Thousands are expected to attend the annual event that exploded in popularity after the 1993 Bill Murray movie, "Groundhog Day."
It's part of a tradition rooted in European agricultural life and marks the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Phil predicts more winter far more often than he predicts an early spring.
Several who have looked at his record have concluded Phil's weather reports are worse than an even-money bet.
Our viewers are the best! When Hannah McDonald highlighted the plight of Serenity Sumler, so many of you immediately stepped up. Serenity stopped to help a driver after spotting a wreck and was hit by another car, resulting in terrible injuries. Without the funds to pay for physical therapy, she was at a loss. Because of the kindness of others - she now can rehab and get back to school. Best of luck to her as she trains to become a chef!
- Carrie Sharp
