State natural sciences museum celebrates Groundhog Day

Sure there's Phil up in Pennsylvania. But what does he know about North Carolina's winters?

Thankfully, we have Sir Walter Wally the Groundhog, who will make his annual prognostication at the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh on Feb. 2 (that would be Wednesday). The popular event includes a groundhog storytime, a shadow ceremony at noon and more.

I'm told that Wally has been gaining national recognition for his accuracy and is regularly featured on The Weather Channel this time of year. Before and after the ceremony, Wally will be relaxing inside his special station where he is available for pictures.

Inside the museum's first floor, there also will be some special educational stations, along with some games and activities. For kids ages six and under, there will be programs about animals in winter at 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in the Windows on the World theater on the third floor.