On Wednesday February 1 at Noon, Punxsutawney Phil became the final inductee into the Weather Discovery Center’s Meteorologist Hall of Fame. Each Groundhog Day the Weather Discovery Center honors individuals who have advanced the knowledge of weather science, climatology and meteorology with the Hall of Fame induction. As Hall of Fame members they help represent and promote the mission of the Weather Discovery Center and are honored for their outstanding dedication to weather. Phil joined the notable ranks of Jen Carfagno, Janice Dean, Dr. Greg Forbes, Dr. Joel Myers, Stephanie Abrams, and more as the 19th inductee.
Phil was joined by Inner Circle Member and handler A.J. Dereume, Groundhog Club President Tom Dunkel, and former Club President Bill Deeley for his acceptance speech. Dunkel explained that each president of the Groundhog Club is given the ability to speak “Groundhogese” and therefore can communicate with Phil. He said he and Phil spoke about the Hall of Fame induction to which Phil said “it’s about time.” Phil also thanked his wife Phyllis for helping to make him the groundhog that he is today.
Several local dignitaries attended the induction, including state Sen. Joe Pittman, state Rep. Brian Smith, Jefferson County Commissioners Scott North, Herb Bullers and Jeff Pisarcik, as well as Punxsutawney Mayor Richard Alexander and borough council members Bill Williams and Nathan Frankenberger. 2018 Inductee Joe Murgo from WTAJ and 2019 Inductee Jen Carfagno from the Weather Channel were also on hand to celebrate Phil’s big day.