The old time string and folk music of Pickford's settlers will showcased at this year's Hay Days starting Wednesday, August 1, in Pickford. The five-day event celebrating Pickford's 130-year heritage will offer activities every day through Sunday, August 5. A complete schedule of events is on pages 6 and 7 of this week's issue.

"Pickin' n' Grinnin' in Pickford" is this year's theme, and participants in this year's Hay Days can expect to see and hear folk music performances all around town. Ahamburger bash, Singspiration, and Blessing of the Banjos will start things off Wednesday afternoon and evening.

Thursday activities will include tournaments, food, and a bluegrass music and sing-along in the evening.

Friday's arts and crafts show, Hay Races, Kiddies Parade, and crowing of the Pickford royalty will highlight the day's activities, followed by a program of local talent and the popular street dance.

Many more activities will be provided Saturday, including a Lumberjack Breakfast, the Pickford Hay 10K and 5K Run, and 2K Fun Run and Walk, petting zoo, lawn and garden tractor pull, and the community parade, featuring Grand Marshals Dick and Marcia Taylor. A softball tournament, basketball tournament, volleyball tournament, horse pull, firemen competitions, rock band concert, and children's activities will take place at the park. Horseshoe and checkers tournaments will also take place that day, as will the Pickin' n' Grinnin' musical performance with local musicians, the Bait Shop Boys, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday events include the final softball tournaments and a "Pickin' n' Grinnin'" informal jam session at the township park.

Volunteers are needed for many events, and those who want to help can call Dr. Richard Morrison at (906) 647-9395. Brochures with schedules of events, times, registration information, and locations will be available in local businesses and around town.