Wiarton Willie actually passed away months ago
South Bruce Peninsula Mayor Janice Jackson announcing yesterday, the groundhog died of a tooth abscess prior to last year’s ceremony.
The admission confirms the rumours that began last Groundhog Day when a pre-recorded video without Willie was sent out by the municipality that morning.
A hat took his place, with the mayor announcing the weather prediction.
Next year the mayor promises Ground Hog Day will return as a live in person event and although she says they searched far and wide for another albino groundhog, a brown one will take Willie’s place.
But why South Bruce officials took so long to fess up, remains a mystery.
Premier Pressured for State of Emergency
It's a Big Year for St. Catharines
Police Stop Drug Transaction on Street
'Shark Tank' Designed to Increase Revenue
Man Charged with Child Sexual Assault
Pedestrian Seriously Hurt After Hit by Car
Man caught driving 3-wheeled pickup truck
2 from Niagara named to the Order of Canada