On Tuesday February 2nd, 2016, Staten Island Chuck appeared before an excited crowd at the Staten Island Zoo to predict whether there would be a long winter or an early spring. When the groundhog did not see his shadow it foretold that there would be an early spring.
Students and staff at Port Richmond High School had different views about the arrival of an early spring. Some of them were afraid that an early spring may lead to global warming. “I think that it is dangerous and could lead to global warming,” said Alyssa Sealy. “An early spring sounds delightful as long as it is not a result of global warming,” said Ms. Makler. Other students were happy because they dislike the cold weather. “Sooner the better because I don’t like the cold!” said Jesus Roldan. “I am happy because I’m more like the sunshine type of person,” said Christeen Perera.
Groundhog Day is a traditional holiday which is celebrated on February 2nd. According to folklore, if it is cloudy when a groundhog emerges from its burrow then the spring season will come early; however if it is sunny the groundhog would retreat back into its burrow and there would be more winter.
Photo by: SILIVE (ZOO keeper Kate Karpuck holds Chuck as New York State Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul)