What it takes to be part of Punxsutawney Phil's Inner Circle

A. J. Dereume, Phil's Handler

My dad was in the club, my grandfather was in the club and so I got lucky enough to be around a lot.  Someone's going to have to do it and I didn't know if I had the time as it's a lifetime appointment.

A. J. Dereume

Gearing up for Groundhogs Day is no easy task and it takes dedication and commitment to become a member of Phil's Inner Circle.  The Inner Circle members are appointed for a lifetime or until they choose to not be in the club anymore.  To become a member, one must prove their passion for Punxsutawney through promotion and service. After being appointed, members work 364 days to prepare for the one big day where Phil makes an appearance.  

Gearing up for Groundhog day and throwing one of the greatest parties on the planet is a lot of work.

Thomas Dunkel, president of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club

Some of the Inner Circle members come from a long line of members.  Dunkel has been a member for 12 years and his father was also in the Inner Circle. The hard work that is put in is rewarded with one special moment every February 2nd and the Inner Circle is always pleased with the crowd and their energy on that day.