February COG Meeting

Location: New State Burgers & Spirits

Address: 1705 NW 16th Street, Oklahoma City, OK

Date: February 8, 2020

Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

A brief history of Groundhog Day:

Many years ago when animalism and nature worship were prevalent, people in the area of Europe now known as Germany believed that the badger had the power to predict the coming of spring. They watched the badger to know when to plant their crops. By the time the first German immigrants settled in Pennsylvania they probably understood that this was not true but the tradition continued.

Unfortunately, there were not many badgers in Pennsylvania so the groundhog was substituted for the badger. Tradition has it that if the groundhog sees its shadow on February 2 it will be frightened by it and will then return to its burrow, indicating that there will be 6 more weeks of winter. If it does not see its shadow, then spring is on the way.

The official groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, lives at Gobbler’s Knob near Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The town has attracted thousands of visitors over the years to experience various Groundhog Day events and activities on February 2. Punxsutawney held its first Groundhog Day in the United States in the 1800s. The first official trek to Gobbler's Knob was made on February 2, 1887. It is said that Punxsutawney Phil (the groundhog) was named after King Phillip. He was called Br'er Groundhog prior to being known as Phil. Canada also celebrates Groundhog Day.

For the February COG meeting we will be having our own celebration of Groundhog day.

There will be some games centered around it as well as various prizes for raffle. Come hungry!

As always, activity participation and/or food purchase is never required to attend a COG event! All we ask is you have a good time.

We hope to see you there!