Magic and Bird Documentary Magic Johnson and Larry Bird are two basketball legends who forever changed the game. This documentary explores their careers and the rivalry that defined their lives. Magic Johnson and Larry Bird were born in different parts of the country - Magic in Lansing, Michigan, and Bird in West Baden Springs, Indiana. Despite their different backgrounds, they both shared a love for basketball from a young age. The documentary delves into their college careers, as Magic played for Michigan State University and Bird for Indiana State University. Their teams had a memorable showdown in the 1979 NCAA Championship game, which is often credited with revitalizing the popularity of college basketball.
The earliest known American reference to Groundhog Day can be found at the Historical Society of Berks County in Reading, Pa. The reference was made Feb. 4, 1841 in Morgantown, Berks County (Pennsylvania) storekeeper James Morris’ diary:
Last Tuesday, the 2nd, was Candlemas day, the day on which, according to the Germans, the Groundhog peeps out of his winter quarters and if he sees his shadow he pops back for another six weeks nap, but if the day be cloudy he remains out, as the weather is to be moderate. Last Tuesday, the 2nd, was Candlemas day, the day on which, according to the Germans, the Groundhog peeps out of his winter quarters and if he sees his shadow he pops back for another six weeks nap, but if the day be cloudy he remains out, as the weather is to be moderate.
Their teams had a memorable showdown in the 1979 NCAA Championship game, which is often credited with revitalizing the popularity of college basketball. After college, both Magic and Bird entered the NBA and quickly made an impact on their respective teams. Magic joined the Los Angeles Lakers, while Bird joined the Boston Celtics.
Groundhog Day Climate
The earliest known American reference to Groundhog Day can be found at the Historical Society of Berks County in Reading, Pa. The reference was made Feb. 4, 1841 in Morgantown, Berks County (Pennsylvania) storekeeper James Morris’ diary:
Last Tuesday, the 2nd, was Candlemas day, the day on which, according to the Germans, the Groundhog peeps out of his winter quarters and if he sees his shadow he pops back for another six weeks nap, but if the day be cloudy he remains out, as the weather is to be moderate.
In the U.S. the tradition derives from a Scottish poem:
As the light grows longer, The cold grows stronger. If Candlemas be fair and bright, Winter will have another flight.
If Candlemas be cloud and snow, Winter will be gone and not come again. A farmer should on Candlemas day,
Have half his corn and half his hay. On Candlemas day if thorns hang a drop, You can be sure of a good pea crop.
In western countries in the Northern Hemisphere the official first day of Spring is about six weeks after Groundhog Day, on March 20 or 21. About 1,000 years ago, before the adoption of the Gregorian calendar when the date of the equinox drifted in the Julian calendar, the spring equinox fell on March 16 instead. This was exactly six weeks after February 2. Assuming that the equinox marked the first day of spring in certain medieval cultures, as it does now in western countries, Groundhog Day occurred exactly six weeks before spring. Therefore, if the groundhog saw his shadow on Groundhog Day there would be six more weeks of winter. If he didn’t, there would be 42 more days of winter. In other words, the Groundhog Day tradition may have begun as a bit of folk humor.
Regardless, the annual prognostication occurs in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. According to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, 1886 was the first year that Groundhog Day in the city's newspaper. The first official prediction occurred the following year, with Phil seeing his shadow and predicting 6 more weeks of winter. He has been making forecasts ever since.
Groundhog Climate Statistics:
Below are some Groundhog Day weather statistics for Pittsburgh, PA, Morgantown, WV and Zanesville, OH.
Pittsburgh, PA:
The following statistics comprises 151 years of data. From 1871 through June 1945, the data came from various locations in downtown Pittsburgh. From July 1945 through mid-September 1952, the data came from the Allegheny County Airport. Since then, the data has been gathered at the Pittsburgh International Airport.
Last Tuesday, the 2nd, was Candlemas day, the day on which, according to the Germans, the Groundhog peeps out of his winter quarters and if he sees his shadow he pops back for another six weeks nap, but if the day be cloudy he remains out, as the weather is to be moderate.
Their teams would meet in the NBA Finals multiple times throughout their careers, creating a fierce and legendary rivalry. The documentary features interviews with players, coaches, and basketball experts who witnessed Magic and Bird's greatness firsthand. It explores their different styles of play, with Magic known for his flashy passing and Bird for his deadly shooting. Off the court, Magic and Bird had contrasting personalities, with Magic's infectious smile and charisma contrasting Bird's quiet and fierce determination. Despite their differences, they shared a mutual respect and admiration for each other, which is evident throughout the documentary. Magic and Bird's rivalry extended beyond their playing days, as they became close friends and ambassadors for the sport of basketball. The documentary highlights their joint appearances and collaborations after retiring from the game. Overall, the Magic and Bird documentary is a captivating exploration of two basketball legends and the impact they had on the sport. It sheds light on their individual journeys and the rivalry that captivated fans around the world. Through interviews, footage, and anecdotes, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the magic that existed on and off the court between these two extraordinary athletes. References: [1] "Magic and Bird." IMDb, www.imdb.com/title/tt2266706/ [2] "Magic & Bird: A Courtship of Rivals - Documentary (2009)." YouTube, uploaded by Sports World, 19 Aug. 2020, www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjlO8N8bcws.
Reviews for "Parrots and Prestidigitation: The Charm and Wit of Avian Magic"
1. John - 1 star - I found "Magic and Bird Documentary" incredibly disappointing. While I was excited to learn more about these basketball legends, the documentary fell flat. It lacked depth and failed to capture the essence of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird's rivalry. The interviews were poorly conducted and the storytelling was disjointed. Overall, I felt like I didn't gain any new insights or appreciation for these iconic players.
2. Sarah - 2 stars - As a fan of basketball and documentaries, I was really looking forward to watching "Magic and Bird Documentary". Unfortunately, it failed to meet my expectations. The film skimmed over important moments in their careers and didn't provide enough context. I was left with more questions than answers, and it felt like the documentary was rushed and hastily put together. The lack of in-depth analysis and critical commentary left me feeling unsatisfied.
3. Michael - 2 stars - I was expecting "Magic and Bird Documentary" to be a captivating and engaging exploration of the two basketball legends. However, I was thoroughly disappointed. The documentary felt too surface-level and didn't delve into the complexities of their characters and careers. The pacing was also off, with certain segments feeling too drawn out while others were rushed. Overall, it lacked the depth and insight I was hoping for, making it hard to fully appreciate these basketball icons.