by: Lee Weyhrich
CLAY — The Clay Public Library kicked off its summer reading program, and turnout was at a record high. At the behest of the new library board, the council has hired two new employees to help with the unprecedented summer rush.
According to councilman Ben Thackerson, people have been flocking to the park at Cosby Lake in the last few weeks, possibly due to new renovations.
The bathrooms have been completed, as well as some landscaping. The first pavilion has already been installed at Cosby Lake, and more are on the way.
Once the pavilions have all been installed, they will be available for rent for parties and events. Pavilions will cost $75 for residents of Clay for three hours and $150 for non-residents.
City workers have been rushing to get the park ready in time for this year’s Camp Smile-A-Mile charity fun run, as well as the annual fishing rodeo.
Both events are scheduled for this Saturday, June 6. The run begins at 8 a.m. and the signup for the fishing rodeo begins at 10 a.m.
The first 300 children ages 3 through 12 to sign up for the rodeo will receive a free Zebco rod and reel. The council has ordered nearly 2,000 catfish for this year’s event. They will place approximately 950 fish on each side of the lake’s peninsula.