Coram, NY – A crowd of several hundred spectators booed and groaned as Suffolk County’s most famous weatherman’s prognostication was read at the Holtsville Ecology Site on Groundhog Day. At 7:25 a.m., Brookhaven Town Councilman Neil Foley announced Hal had seen his shadow when he awoke Sunday morning, meaning six more weeks of winter for residents in the Town of Brookhaven.
According to tradition, if a groundhog sees its shadow after emerging from his burrow on Groundhog Day, there will be six more weeks of winter weather; if not, spring should arrive early.
“I’m always hopeful Holtsville Hal will not see his shadow and assist with my snow removal budget,” said Superintendent of Highways Daniel Losquadro. “However, if Hal’s prediction proves to be correct, the Brookhaven Highway Department remains ready to handle whatever Mother Nature decides to send our way.”
“I want to thank everyone who took the time to come out and take part in this fun, annual tradition, including Councilman Neil Foley, who was the honorary Mayor for the Day, as well as the Holtsville Fire Department, 7-Eleven, Bagel Lovers, WBLI and Max 103.1 FM,” Losquadro continued.
Holtsville Hal is just one of the more than 100 animals who call the Holtsville Ecology Site and Animal Preserve home. The center, which is open all year-round, includes a wildlife preserve, greenhouses, gardens, and jogging and exercise trails. For more information, visit the Highway Department Web page or call 631-758-9664.
Photo Caption: Holtsville Hal greets the crowd of several hundred spectators at the 2020 Groundhog Day celebration at the Holtsville Ecology Center.
Daniel P. Losquadro * Highway Superintendent
1140 Old Town Road • Coram • NY 11727 • Phone (631) 451-9200 • Fax (631) 732-2584