Martin Fourth of July celebration continues

The Martin family of Hays has extended an invitation to people in the area to come to a four-decade-old tradition Wednesday for their annual Fourth of July celebration.

Sheila Martin said her family has held celebrations on the Fourth for 36 years at their residence in Hays.

The celebration starts with a community parade at 10 a.m., with a horseshoe tournament starting at the same time.

Kids games will start at noon, with mud volleyball starting at 1 p.m. followed by a mud tug-of-war.

A free barbecue starts at 2 p.m.

An Independence Fitness Challenge starts at 4 p.m., with teens running first and the adult competition following.

In the adult competition, cash prizes will be paid with $300 for first, $200 for second and $100 for third in the Novice Men and Women groups and $750 for first, $500 for second and $300 for third in the Men and Women Elite Groups with Calcutta betting in the Elite groups only.

Tickets are being sold for Wednesday drawings for a $1,000 prize and two $500 prizes.

For more information, people can call 673-3399, 390-0322 and 390-2633.