Martin Z. Mollusk Will Try to Save the Summer on May 9

Martin Z. Mollusk will face the challenge of a lifetime on May 9, as he attempts to predict an early summer for Ocean City for the 47th consecutive year. Legend has it that Ocean City’s hermit crab mascot has the power to bring summer a week early when he sees his shadow on the day in early May that bears his name. This is Groundhog Day – Ocean City style. With only the occasional use of flashlights, Martin’s handlers have helped preserve his perfect record of almost five decades, much to the delight of everybody who loves summer. But with the beach, Boardwalk and stores currently closed to slow the spread of COVID-19, Martin’s prognostication will take on new meaning. Due to social gathering restrictions, Martin’s crawl will not be a live event this year. Like everybody from Lady Gaga to the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” Martin will open the doors of his home to cameras showing him and his wife, Mollie, sheltering in place to protect the health of the community. The world can watch online at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 9. Video of Martin Z. Mollusk Day will be posted to the “Ocean City NJ” Facebook page and to www.ocnj.us at that time. One thing certain to happen is the 2020 Martin Z. Mollusk Kids Coloring Contest. Instructions and the coloring page are available at www.ocnj.us/mzm. Due date is May 1, and winners will be announced during the virtual event on May 9.