'Hope' the Groundhog predicts early spring

HOPE, Ind.- The Town of Hope hosted its local Groundhog Day on Monday morning, February 2, and it turned out to be good news for Bartholomew County residents.

Following several speeches and dedications, ''Hope'' the Groundhog from Utopia Wildlife Rehabilitators was removed from her enclosure. Unlike her furry colleague in Pennsylvania, Hope did not see her shadow.

According to local tradition, if a groundhog does not see its shadow, an early spring is likely, and there will not be six more full weeks of winter weather.

Despite the bitter cold, several residents of Hope dressed up and gathered to celebrate the yearly tradition on the Hope Townsquare starting at 8 a.m.

The main event was followed by music, hot drinks, snacks, singing, and a meet and greet with “Hope" the Groundhog.