Stirling’s Mill Pond Moe spots his shadow

By Molly Little

STIRLING – There will be six more weeks of winter, according to Mill Pond Moe, Stirling’s human groundhog.

The life-size mascot saw its shadow early Tuesday morning at the Rotary Covered Bridge in downtown Stirling.

A group of local residents gathered to witness the prediction that was announced by the town crier shortly after 7:30 a.m.

Stirling’s town crier announces Mill Pond Moe’s spring prediction on Groundhog Day. Photo By Emilie Quesnel, QNet News

Owen Jewell, 9, came out before school to watch Mill Pond Moe in action. He said he is excited about six more weeks of winter and enjoyed seeing Moe search for his shadow.

“I think he was pretty cool since it was my first time out,” he said.

The Lions Club of Stirling organized the Groundhog Day event, which concluded the town’s annual Groundhog Fest.

Mill Pond Moe made appearances throughout the weekend and was a familiar face to many. Moe has been around for about 30 years, with different people wearing the costume.

Lions Club member David Potts says Moe was the star of the show this Groundhog Day.

“I’m quite happy,” he said. “Mill Pond Moe always is fantastic.”

With this year’s event come and gone, Potts is already looking to next Groundhog Day. Next year’s fest will be the best yet, he said.

“We’ve got some bigger and better things planned for next year, so stay tuned, folks.”

One new addition to this year’s event was town crier Peter Kooistra. He told residents that he was appreciative of his role.

“It’s my pleasure to be your town crier this year.”

He showed up in full costume to announce Moe’s prediction and wrap up the Groundhog Day festivities with a weather warning.

“Folks, whatever you do don’t put your toques and mitts up for sale yet,” he said. “You may need them before summer gets here.”

“Enjoy the spring.”