Community needs to support ‘our’ Chehaw

The Albany City Commission has always been supportive of Chehaw. Just last month, the city resurfaced the Chehaw Zoo Parking lot, and previous funding brought sewer lines to the campground and many, many other projects.

The Chehaw staff is doing a great job managing and expanding the park to more and more groups. Cyclists, joggers, Frisbee golf, kayakers, radio controlled cars enthusiasts, BMX racing, Paws in the Park is coming up, along with a big and brand new Festival of the Arts with over 200 featured artists this fall.

Chehaw was wounded in the 2017 storms and is trying to get funding to help rebuild. Last week, Chehaw implemented “fast lane” ticket sales for the first time for the Native American Festival and guests who bought a pass online could come through the north entrance with no waiting.

The Christmas market was a big success, and so many other activities are ongoing and planned. Lee County is getting involved; many on the Chehaw Board live in Lee County. Marines from MCLB volunteered in the Native American Festival, as did school-age youth from area high schools.

The Friends of Chehaw has reactivated with rousing success. Last year, Chehaw hosted several music festivals and more are planned.

Kayak Attack will have a snack bar and information center near the Splash Park when it opens. The Christmas lights and train and other holiday events have been a smashing success. This is our Chehaw, and we need to all come together and help make it an even greater success.

Thanks for your help.

Roger Marietta

Albany

Editor’s Note: Roger Marietta represents Ward IV on the Albany City Commission.