More than 3,500 guests visited Cassadaga Beach this summer. File Photo

CASSADAGA — As August wrapped up the summer season, Program Director Tammie Wichlacz could not believe she was already giving her final report of the year on the Cassadaga Beach Program to the Board of Trustees.

While the weeks flew by, Wichlacz was proud to say, “It was a great summer.”

Wichlacz reported a total of 3,598 visitors to Cassadaga Beach this summer. No accidents took place at the beach for the entire season. Wichlacz said the end of the season picnic was “very well attended”, with well over 120 guests.

“The beach crew was amazing this year,” Wichlacz said. “Huge kudos to them.”

The Village Beach hosted swim lessons this summer for beginners at the beach. Of the 89 total participants, 63 are within the Cassadaga Valley Central School District limits. The Village is considering whether to implement a small fee to out of district participants in future years to help cover the cost of lifeguard staffing.

There was also a songwriting contest held this summer, sponsored by Citizens for a Better Cassadaga. The contest featured 30 participants writing original songs about the beach and Cassadaga lakes. The winner of the contest performed on the floating stage at the beach.

“What a great summer it was, and it’s because of our great staff,” Trustee Cindy Flaherty said. “Everybody loves to go there. The lifeguards even love to go to work.”

Wichlacz thanked the Village Board for bringing her back as Beach Program Director this year. She also thanked Trustees Flaherty and Bill Astry, as well as the Department of Public Works for their assistance with the program this summer.

Astry also made substantial progress this year with the Bathhouse at the Beach, which is now operational. Wichlacz and Flaherty both shared compliments pertaining to the new restrooms at the recent meeting.

Donations of cans and bottles to support the beach program can be made at Can Kings in Fredonia.