Everyone's favorite rodent, the soothesaying groundhog Punxsutawney Phil came out for his annual mid-winter stroll and struck paydirt.

ABC:

An early spring is on the way, according to groundhog "Punxsutawney Phil."

When the Pennsylvania groundhog emerged from his dwelling at Gobbler's Knob Saturday morning, he did not see his shadow.

"And so ye faithful, there is no shadow to see, an early Spring for you and me," proclaimed Bob Roberts, one of Phil's handlers.

According to folklore, if a groundhog emerges from its burrow and see its shadow, then six more weeks of winter weather is on the way.

But if it comes out and sees no shadow, spring is expected to come early.

No doubt the global warming hysterics are escatic. More proof that the planet is getting warmer and that we're all doomed.

Considering the fact that here in Central Illinois we have yet to experience a snowfall that covers the dead grass, an early spring would be most welcome. I embrace our global warming fate, hating winter as I do and hoping to move someday to warmer climes.

Let's give a cheer for Phil - a participant in a fine old American tradition.