After a long winter of hibernation and sleeping, it will be noted that at 7:25 a.m. on February 2nd, the Groundhog will awake and make its appearance. 

 

History says that Groundhog Day is associated with the Christian tradition of Candlemas.  It was then that the clergy blessed and passed out candles to be used for the remainder of winter.  This tradition originated in Germany and it was the Germans who chose an animal to predict the weather.  When the tradition was observed for the first time in the United States on February 2, 1887, a groundhog had been chosen.  The first observance and all subsequent observances were held at Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, thus giving the groundhog his name of Phil.

 

The superstition has it that Phil can predict the weather.  When he emerges, and if it is a sunny day, he will see his shadow and will return to his hole predicting six more weeks of winter weather.  If he does not see his shadow. Spring is on its way. 

 

Whether there is any truth to this or if it is only a superstition we will all be watching to see what Phil's prediction will be.  Perhaps February 3 should be a day for getting out our spring wardrobe or at least going shopping to refurbish our old outfits.

 

Just a reminder that the Progressive Women's Association will sponsor a Women Of Distinction luncheon on Friday, February 22 at noon at the Uptown Event Center in observance of Black Culture Month.  Ten Harrison County women will be honored and Rhonda Holyfield Mangiere will be our keynote speaker .  The luncheon is open the public.  For information or reservations call 304 624 6881.

 

A Purse Bingo will be held on February 10 at the Senior Citizens Center co-sponsored by the PWA.  Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at The PWA.  There are a lot of exciting things happening at the Chamber of Commerce.  Be sure to mark your calendars to participate in these events, many of which are open to the public.

 

I hope that you are supporting the events at the Robinson Grand.  They have a wonderful calendar of events to appeal to every member of our community.  They need our support to continue presenting this wonderful programming. 

 

My sincere condolences to the Cathy and John Oldaker family on the loss of their son.

 

Remember the food bank at the PWA.  If you are in need of food or if you would like to make a donation. Please contact Kelli at 304 624 6881.

 

Keep warm, keep healthy and keep in touch.  Until next week "Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine."