Groundhog Day Contest
Who allowed a rodent to control our seasons anyway? A tradition that spans the course of history was passed down from Ancient Rome to the Fierce Teutonic tribes to the fine people of Pennsylvania to keep it alive. Of course we are talking about Groundhog Day.
A tradition kept alive by Punxsutawney Phil. Punxsutawneywhat..?
Let’s back it up for a moment and break it down. The town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania is home to our little season’s keeper. In Punxsutawney, Phil resides in the lovely area of Gobbler’s Knob. When he is not hard at work one day of the year, Phil is pampered by members of the Inner Circle. This elite group of top hat wearing, groundhog enthusiasts cater to Phil’s every need. Being the world’s oldest groundhog, Phil has been determining our seasons for 121 years. How is this possible? The mysterious Groundhog Elixir of course! One sip a year of this potent potion and Phil tacks on seven more magical years of his little rodent life.
Now that we have been acquainted with our season selecting friend, I had to ask how does it all work?
A crowd emerges around Gobbler’s Knob. News crews and videographers eagerly await Phil’s appearance. After Phil emerges from his burrow he speaks to the head of the Inner Circle, the Groundhog Club president. In “Groundhogese”(a language only understood by the current president of the Inner Circle), Phil tells the president his prediction. Phil’s proclamation is then translated for the world. Phil’s forecasts are not planned in advanced or influenced by the coveted Inner Circle in any way.
This is where you, our loyal FiCE fans come in. Get your bets ready! This Groundhog Day, FiRE+iCE challenges you to a contest of epic proportions! 500 dinners are on the line and the fate of the seasons hangs in the balance. Here’s how it works: Go on our Facebook Page before February 2nd and post “I predict Phil will see his shadow (winter continues).” Or, “I predict that Phil won’t see his shadow (early spring).” Those who guess correctly will win a FREE DINNER on Groundhogs Day.
On the bright side, it is a win-win situation at FiRE + iCE Boston. If he predicts 6 more weeks of winter than we can hunker down with a hearty meal and wait for warmer days. If spring is forecasted than I can think of no better a place to go for a celebratory iCE Bowl.