Martin Z. Mollusk Will Try To Save Ocean City's Summer

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Martin Z. Mollusk has predicted an early summer in Ocean City for decades, but this year he faces an unprecedented challenge. Normally crowds gather to check if the hermit crab sees his shadow. This year, Martin will perform his duty from home.

Martin will open the doors to his home at 11 a.m. 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.

Legend has it that Martin has the power to bring summer a week early when he sees his shadow on his namesake day in early May. With the occasional use of flashlights, Martin's handlers have helped preserve his perfect record for nearly five decades.

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But the beaches and boardwalk are closed because of the new coronavirus. So Martin's consequential crawl won't go live this year.

The 2020 Martin Z. Mollusk Kids Coloring Contest is also open for entries. 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.

Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

Related articles:

• Ocean City Mayor: Let's Slow Coronavirus To Salvage Summer
• Here's How Coronavirus Could Impact Jersey Shore Summer

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