Weddings follow Phil's early spring prediction

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. -- The marmot has spoken.

Thousands of visitors gathered at Gobbler's Knob for Punxsutawney Phil's annual weather predication.

According to the Groundhog Club Inner Circle, Phil spoke in Groundhogese and was translated by his handlers.

After being removed from his stump at 7:28 a.m. Friday, Phil's prediction was read by Inner Circle president, Bill Cooper.

"El Nino has caused high winds, heavy snow, ice and freezing temperatures in the West. Here in the East with much mild winter weather we have been blessed. Global warming has caused a great debate. This mild winter makes it seem just great," Phil's prediction said. "On Gobbler's Knob I see no shadow today. I predict that early spring is on the way."

Had Phil seen his shadow, there would be six more weeks of winter, according to town -- and old German -- folklore.

Gobbler's Knob, which became Phil's temporary home in 1906, opened at 3 a.m. to accommodate Groundhog Day celebrants. During the year, members of the Inner Circle said he lives in the library with his groundhog wife, Phyllis.

Members of the Inner Circle took to the stage in the early morning hours to provide entertainment, consisting of dancing and games that included members of the audience. There was a Zambelli Fireworks display just before the "prognostication," as Inner Circle members refer to it.

The crowd chanted "Phil" as daybreak neared and cheered as he was pulled from his temporary home at Gobbler's Knob. Coordinators said it was one of the largest crowds in the history of the event.

After the prediction was announced, the crowd was invited to take photographs of Phil while he was in his cage on the stage.

The city school buses of Punxsutawney served as shuttle buses, taking Groundhog Day celebrants to and from the downtown to Gobbler's Knob, which is about a two-mile trip. Others chose to walk on a snowplowed path.

The festivities in "Punxsy" as locals call it will continue through the day, including a number of weddings. Each will have an Inner Circle member present at their wedding. One couple claims to have met at Gobbler's Knob during a past celebration.

To see video of Punxsutawney Phil making his prediction and more of the festivities, click here.

klibecco@vindy.com