The Spirit Of Punxutawney: Groundhog Day

Although Groundhog Day has recently passed us by, it'll be around again next year, and more than any place on Earth, the town of Punxutawney, PA will be ready for it. Punxutawney (which literally means "town of the gnat fly;" no joke) is a sleepy little town of 7,000 (people, not gnat flies) that also happens to be the hometown and residence of Punxsy Phil, the groundhog who officially declares--after checking for his shadow on the morning of February 2--whether spring has arrived or winter will be staying on a bit longer. Produced by Rich and Ellen West, The Spirit of Punxutawney: Groundhog Day traces the history of the town's fascination with the groundhog (which began in the 1940s), interviews town members, and includes film clips of various major activities on and around Groundhog Day, culminating in the trek to Gobbler's Knob in the pre-dawn hours of February 2 for the official word on the weather. The 1991 festival, filmed in this production, attracted some 5,000 visitors to Gobbler's Knob (including actor Bill Murray, currently starring in the comedy Groundhog Day, who offers a few words to the audience). A sprightly, engaging piece of Americana, The Spirit of Punxutawney is a loving reminder that small-town community spirit still thrives here and there, that there are still places where folks are always welcome, and that there's nothing like a good tradition to bring a large group of people together in celebration. A wonderful program, featuring original "groundhog"-themed music, The Spirit of Punxutawney: Groundhog Day is highly recommended. (Available from: West Production Services, Inc., 6567 Rundale Ct., Alexandria, VA 22310; (703) 971-7188.)