Busy day for Chuck Wood at Groundhog Fever Festival
The community turned out Saturday, Feb. 4, for what has become a fun tradition in Quincy —the Groundhog Fever Festival. Established in 2013 by friends Johnny Mansell and James Wilson, the event has grown over the years and is now organized by the Quincy Chamber.
Attendees were treated to live music, a chili cook-off, children’s games, a bachelor and bachelorette auction, the announcement of the honorary mayor and, of course, the appearance of Chuck Wood, Quincy’s affable groundhog. The weather which was brisk and ultimately rainy, did not dampen the event.
The appearance of Chuck Wood is always noteworthy (he is the reason there is a festival after all) but this one was particularly intriguing. He discovered that the love of his life was having a baby so he proposed on the spot and was married in front of the crowd that had gathered to hear his weather prediction — six more weeks of winter.
The competition was fierce, but ultimately Red Powell was elected honorary Mayor of Quincy — it was all part of a fundraiser to benefit the Quincy Outdoor Theater Project — a project spearheaded by Tristan McMichael.
The competition was also stiff for the chili cook-off. This year’s winners were:
People’s choice- Feather River Food Co-op
Judge’s Choice- Chill Out (Dale Hays and Shawn Adams)
Best Decorated Booth- Big Daddy’s Guide Service
Red Powell, a beloved Quincy resident, addresses the crowd after being named honorary mayor — the result of the popular vote in a fundraiser for a new outdoor theater. Facebook photo
Local musicians, the Fish Tacos, entertained the crowd throughout the afternoon. Photo by Debra Moore
Auction host Lisa Kelly lists the attributes of Dayne Lewis, one of the event’s bachelors. He was claimed by a group of ladies who bid $200 for him. Photo by Debra Moore
Many service groups were represented at the Festival, including Quincy Rotary. From left: Beth Reid, Zoe Stancer and Karen Kleven were selling tickets for a 50/50 raffle. Photo by Debra Moore
Young bicyclists enjoyed pedaling through the obstacle course, one of the activities for kids. Photo by Debra Moore
The Brewing Lair was a popular booth during the festival. Who doesn’t like a cold beer to go with their chili? Photo by Debra Moore
The celebration wouldn’t be complete without members of Quircus entertaining the crowd. Photo by Debra Moore
