Pictured with Phil are (from left) Bill Deeley, President; Butch Philliber, Iceman; Ron Ploucha, Handler (holding Phil); Dave Gigliotti, Thunder Conductor; and Tom Uberti, The Big Windmaker, holding the elixir container.
The magic elixir, known as “Groundhog Punch,” is given to Phil each year at the annual picnic sponsored by the Punxsutawney Ground Club. The recipe, developed in 1887 by the original “Groundhoggers” has been passed down from generation to generation of Phil’s handlers.
The ingredients and the process to prepare the magic elixir remain a tightly-guarded secret. According to legend, with each sip Phil takes he receives seven more years of life and longevity.
This year’s picnic and Elixir of Life ceremony were well-attended despite clouds and rain throughout the day.
In addition to the elixir ceremony, those who attended were also treated to musical entertainment by The Beagle Brothers along with Slim Forsythe and Dirtkicker, a corn hole tournament, and food catered by Aramark.
For more information about Punxsutawney Phil and Groundhog Day, visit www.groundhog.org or “Like” Punxsutawney Phil on Facebook.
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