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Wednesday, May 22, 2013 | 5:15 a.m.

Posted: 9:39 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013

Inner Circle member expects large turnout for Groundhog Day

By Brittany Boyer

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. —

Groundhog Day is less than a month away, which means the inner circle and the town of Punxsutawney is preparing for the big day. 

Every year between 8,000 - 12,000 people head to Punxsutawney to see Phil's prediction. 

Last year, Phil saw his shadow which meant six more weeks of winter.

Luckily, despite his prediction -- last winter was relatively mild. 

This year organizers anticipate a larger than normal turnout at Gobbler's Knob. 

"We think we may be overrun.  We are preparing for a very large crowd. We have around 80 buses that will be transporting our fans from the downtown area up to Gobbler's Knob," said inner circle member, Ron Ploucha.

This year Groundhog Day falls on a Saturday. Ploucha said because of that, they may see up to 20,000 people this year. 

"We're very fortunate to have this little creature and the fame he has brought to all of us," he said.

This year those heading to "The Knob" will notice a new entrance-way. 

Thanks to a $4,500 grant through the Pennsylvania Wilds, the Groundhog's Club was able to make changes. 

Organizers anticipate the new entrance will be complete prior to Groundhog Day. 

This week meteorologists at 6 News said our area is being blasted with the coldest air so far this season. So -- a question many are wondering- will Phil see his shadow?

"He won't tell anybody. As I said he studies a lot. Nobody knows until that very moment at about 7:25 on Feb. 2.  He will let us know what to expect," Ploucha said. 

For more information on Groundhog Day visit this website

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