Video: ‘Oscar’ Predicts Winter will be Short in North Mississippi

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ANCHOR, Miss. (WCBI) — Temperatures in north Mississippi may be fluctuating but if Punxsutawney Phil is correct, you should keep out your jackets for a few more weeks.

The Groundhog saw his shadow Monday in Pennsylvania, predicting 6 more weeks of winter. Here in Mississippi a local groundhog is predicting something a little different.

For 7 years people have gathered at The Morris Grocery Store to celebrate Groundhog day what started as an event with 4 men, has grown into a tradition.

“We put Anchor Mississippi on the map. We have folks from all over the country that come down here every year,” says Founder Larry Smith.

Adam Harmon got in on the tradition a few years ago and says he comes back for the camaraderie.

“These guys, they carry on. They just have fun with it every year,” says Harmon.

Smith, one of the 4 founders says it’s all about bringing people together.

“My favorite part is being with the 4 fellows that started this,” says Smith.

Old and new friends meet up at the store for the ceremony, complete with a live Groundhog, Oscar, to catch up and enjoy a big bowl of ” Groundhog Day Stew” made fresh in the back.

Although the fun, food and friendship are all free, they do ask you to drop some change in this bucket, making a donation to the owner’s son who was recently injured in an accident.

Harmon says as the Groundhog Day tradition grows he hopes it will continue to be passed on.

“The younger generation has to step up some time and be a part of what the older people do, teach the kids,” says Harmon.

Harmon and Smith agree, if you haven’t been out to see their Groundhog celebration yet, you are missing out.

Come check it out some time,” says Harmon.

Categories: Local News

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