It’s Groundhog Day and on Feb. 2, General Beau Lee, Georgia’s official weather prognosticator and groundhog, saw his shadow this morning, meaning we're in store for six more weeks of winter. This is bad news for Atlanta families, who are getting tired of this year’s roller coaster ride of swinging temperatures. One day, it’s in the 70s and the next, it’s in the 30s.
Not only did General Beau Lee predict an six more weeks of winter, but he also demonstrated his tech-savviness by announcing his prediction on Twitter at 7:31 a.m. "Beau sees his shadow. Six more weeks of winter," the post read. In addition, his activities were streamed live this morning, giving everyone in Atlanta the opportunity to watch Beau’s prediction, even if they couldn’t attend the annual festivities at Yellow River Game Ranch in Lilburn.
Hundreds of sleepy fans, some holding “Go Beau!" signs, joined General Beau Lee this morning to show their support for Georgia’s most famous groundhog.
More interesting news about Groundhog Day and General Beau Lee:
- This is the 127th anniversary of Groundhog Day.
- The country’s most famous groundhog is Punxsutawney Phil, who resides at Gobbler’s Farm in Pennsylvania. This morning, he did not see his shadow and predicted an early spring.
- General Beau Lee works only on February 2nd and worldwide media attention follows his every amble. "Groundhog Hotlines," located only a few feet away from Beau's Weathering Heights Plantation, opens for advisories at 6 a.m. and calls come in from as far away as Germany, England and even the sunny State of Hawaii.
- Four Georgia Governors have recognized beau for his public service to Americans.
- The National Weather Service has commended the General twice for the accuracy of his predictions.
- General Beau Lee resides in a lavish white columned mansion at the Yellow River Game Ranch. It includes a water fountain, a mailbox, a granite monument, a monogrammed lawn marker, sundial, a doormat and a satellite dish that allows him to watch PBS nature specials. Beau has further enjoyed a broad jump and high diving board, which readied him for The 1996 Olympics.
About the Yellow River Game Ranch
The Yellow River Game Ranch is Georgia’s oldest animal preserve and a popular destination for families in Atlanta. Now in its 46th year of operation, the ranch provides children and adults in Atlanta a "nose to nose" experience with more than six hundred animals and birds. It's located at 4525 Highway 78, Lilburn Georgia. For further information, call 770-972-6643 or visit its website.
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