The 20-degree temperature did not deter groundhog aficionados from gathering at Wehr’s Dam, South Whitehall, around 7 a.m. Feb. 2 to watch Yahdee and his grandson Lee, sled across the Jordan Creek.

Members and supporters of Grundsau Lodsch Nu. 16 awaited the groundhogs’ weather prediction at this ninth annual celebration.

As fans arrived, they were treated to cookies and hot beverages.

Grundsau Lodsch Nu. 16 Am Jahden Haaptman (president) David H. Adam of Orefield opened this year’s event by welcoming everyone in Pennsylvania Dutch.

After singing “America (My Country, ’Tis of Thee),” the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Wait Till the Sun Shines, Nellie,” and “She’ll be Coming ’Round the Mountain,” and saying the Pledge of Allegiance in both Pa. German and English, it was time for Yahdee and Lee to make their appearance.

Sledding slowly across the creek, the pair arrived shortly after 7 a.m.

After reaching the creek bank, Lee told Adam that winter started late, the snow was so deep he couldn’t get out of his burrow and there would be a few small snowstorms.

The cold weather will continue over the next five weeks but by the sixth week, it will taper off into spring.

Tradition has it Yahdee, who only speaks Pa. German, relays his prediction to Lee, who then tells Adam.

Prior to the end of the prognostication celebration, attendees sang “Happy Birthday” to Hailie Hardey of Whitehall, who turned 7 on Groundhog Day.

Yahdee and Lee will be guests of honor at the banquet of Grundsau Lodsch Nu. 16 to be held 6:30 p.m. March 4 in the Family Center of Jordan Lutheran Church, 5103 Snowdrift Road, Orefield.

Tickets are available by calling Adam at 610-395-4282 or 484-547-9387.