It’s been two years since Oxford’s first and only groundhog, the one-eyed Noah, saw the light of Hog Heaven through his good eye and bid farewell to his earthly home and family.
Although Noah is gone forever, the furry weather-predicting marmot is certainly not forgotten.
His warm spirit and the sense of community he inspired in others lives on in our hearts and the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual “Groundhog Day Festival.”
This year’s festivities will begin Sunday, Feb. 1 with the Second Annual Groundhog Day Bowling Tournament from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Collier Lanes.
It’s a little known fact that groundhogs are the best bowlers in the entire Animal Kingdom.
Despite his impaired vision, Noah himself once bowled a 300 game and always regretted never going pro.
During the tournament, local businesses will team up to bowl against each other to win bragging rights and one-year temporary ownership of the hand-carved wooden groundhog trophy.
Collier Lanes’ team won last year and is ready to defend their title.
Drawings for prizes donated by local merchants and a special appearance by Fumbelina the Clown will occur during the tournament.
Participation in the tournament cost $50 per four-person team, which includes two games of bowling, free shoe rental, two pieces of pizza and pop.
To sign up for the tournament call the Chamber office at (248) 628-0410.
The fun will continue in Centennial Park on Monday, Feb. 2 (Groundhog Day) from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Ken Schaulau, of West Branch, will kick off the festivities with a wood carving demonstration, sponsored by James Lumber Company.
Tim Brinker will conduct an ice carving demonstration, sponsored by Boulder Pointe.
Fumbelina the Clown will make a special appearance with her wonderful pet goose, famous animal balloons and magic tricks.
Upland Hills Farm, of Addison Township, will be on hand with a young calf, a goat, bunnies and other animals the kids will love to pet.
Starbucks will provide free hot chocolate and coffee.
The highlight of Monday’s activities will be Mark Harries, owner of Windstar Farm and the late Noah’s dad, with his weather-predicting llama, furry puppet Noah II and some other favorite farm animals for the kids to enjoy.
At 10 a.m. Harries will receive the “shadow or no shadow” proclamation from Noah II and his llama, Mr. Prozac (or “Zac” for short).
According to Harries, Noah and Mr. Prozac were “very, very close” and before he passed away, the marmot passed on his weather forecasting secrets to his llama buddy.
Chamber President Dale Johnson will read the proclamation to the eager crowd.
Will it be an early spring or six more weeks of Old Man Winter?
Come to the 2004 Groundhog Day Festival and find out.