Better bundle up: The world’s most famous groundhog saw his shadow this morning, predicting this already long winter will last for six more weeks. Punxsutawney Phil emerged just after dawn in front of an estimated 13,000 witnesses, many dressed in black and gold to celebrate the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Super Bowl victory the night before. According to German superstition, if a hibernating animal casts a shadow on Feb. 2—the Christian holiday of Candlemas—winter will last another six weeks. If no shadow was seen, legend said spring would come early. Since 1887, Phil has seen his shadow 97 times, hasn’t seen it 15 times, and there are no records for nine years, according to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club.
Love on the cheap: Valentine’s Day spending is expected to drop by 4.8% from 2008, as cash-strapped consumers look for cheaper ways to show their love. IBISWorld says while sales of cards and candy are expected to increase, drops are projected for big-ticket items such as jewelry, expensive dinners and lingerie. Valentine’s spending is projected to hit $28.6 billion this year.
One of the good guys: Warrick Dunn, the former Catholic High School running back who plays for the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, won the Bart Starr Award for his character and community leadership. Dunn, who has a foundation that helps single mothers buy homes, was presented with the honor during Super Bowl weekend. He beat out New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees for the award.
