MILLTOWN, N.J. (PIX11) - It used to be a day Milltown looked forward to. But now, Groundhog Day is just another day in the small borough without its companion, Milltown Mel.
Sadly, Mel passed away shortly before Groundhog Day in 2022. But the show must go on – and the search for a successor began. But, evidently, it's hard to find a groundhog these days.
"Please understand that to have a groundhog is more than just taking one out of your backyard. Can't do that," said Russell Einbinder, who is part of the Milltown Wranglers, one group behind the town's Groundhog Day tradition. They have tried everything, including reaching out to zoos and legal breeders. In 2022, they thought they found their next Mel.
"We were able to locate one from a place down south that's a legitimate breeder," said Einbinder.
But once they got the creature, they said the State of New Jersey stepped in. They were told it couldn't live there because of a statute concerning rabid animals imported from certain states. So, it was back to square one.
"It's very frustrating," said Einbinder. "Doesn't mean we're giving up."
The charming town with a population of just under 7,000 takes pride in the annual tradition.
"Founded by Jerry and Cathy Guthlein, the first year we did it was 2009," said Einbinder.
Hundreds used to fill the parking lot of the American Legion to witness Mel's annual prediction until their last celebration in 2020.
"The people of the town really do miss it," said fellow wrangler Amy Bitalla, who said the event's return will be a wonderful day for the town, especially the kids. "We're hoping that that comes back in the years to come."
The Wranglers are asking any legitimate groundhog breeders anywhere in the United States to get in touch with Milltown Borough Hall.
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