While Groundhog Day is usually observed to determine the length of winter, Marianopolis College uses the occasion to hold its annual alumni reunion — and this year's event again promises to cast a giant shadow.

Former students are invited to beat the winter blues and join the Alumni Association at the Groundhog Day Pizza Extravaganza for a casual evening of pizza, beer and a silent auction offering an array of exciting prizes. This popular annual reunion is free and open to all alumni, faculty and staff, and attracts over 250 guests each year.

It is a great opportunity for former students to mingle with their former professors and mentors, and to catch up with classmates while supporting the Alumni Association's year-round efforts to give back to Marianopolis and its students.

Dozens of goodies are up for grabs in the silent auction, donated from a wide variety of Montreal companies and organizations.

It all takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4 in Room F-105 at Marianopolis College, 4873 Westmount Ave. For more information, call 514-931-8792 ext. 202, or visit www.marianopolis.edu