WHO: Martin Z. Mollusk, Ocean City’s relatively famous weather prognosticator, will be joined by special guest meteorologist “Nor’easter Nick” Pittman.
WHAT: Martin will attempt to see his shadow for the 48th consecutive time. (Legend has it that Martin once saw only a partial shadow, and summer arrived just 3½ days ahead of time.) This is Groundhog Day in Ocean City style.
Martin also will instruct Nor’easter Nick, who had the audacity to name himself after a common coastal storm, on the proper methods of weather forecasting and on the absence of inclement weather in Ocean City.
WHY: If Martin sees his shadow, summer comes one week early, much to the satisfaction of vacationers and local businesses.
HOW: With only the occasional assistance of flashlights (or whatever it takes to bring on the long-awaited summer).
WHEN: Rain or shine at 11 a.m. Friday, May 6.
WHERE: On the beach beside the Ocean City Music Pier (Boardwalk at Moorlyn Terrace) or inside the Music Pier in the event of rain. The event is free to attend.
HISTORY: Ocean City’s hermit crab mascot made his first, and what turned out to be historic, creep onto the Ninth Street Beach on a cool and windy March day in 1974.
WHAT ELSE: Friday morning’s program will include the Cape Shore Sweet Adelines performing the national anthem and a musical performance by the String Band Novelties.
The media is invited to cover the event.
Ocean City, New Jersey
861 Asbury Avenue
Ocean City, NJ 08226
(609) 399-6111
www.ocnj.us