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Principal Chief Chad Smith presenting Jack Fain with ground breaking shovel.

CHEWEY, OK - The Chewey community recently held a groundbreaking ceremony and dinner to celebrate the construction of the new Chewey community building.

"When I was growing up, it was common practice for Cherokee people to work together to build houses and farms and we're getting back to that, which is good," said Jackie Bob Martin Cherokee Nation Tribal Council Member.

Jack Fain, president of the Chewey community organization, explained where the idea of a Chewey community building came from in his speech to the crowd.

"There were three men here in the community a few years ago that had a dream," Fain said. "They went to the Cherokee Nation and a few other places and got some wheels turning and got us a park here, and we appreciate the work they've done. All but one has passed away now. They didn't get to see their entire dream fulfilled, but we are trying to carry on their dream. Were doing this for them."

The dirt work on the building is scheduled to start in the next 3-4 weeks according to Charlie Soap, self-help consultant with the Cherokee Nation community building project.

"The Chewey community is unique," said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. "They've been pulling together for a long time. They asked us for help, which is great. It (the community building) was their idea."

The Cherokee Nation is providing materials and some site work to help the community get started, but Chewey residents will construct the building themselves.

For more information on the Chewey community building or to volunteer, please contact Willard Mounce or Don Greenfeather, phone: 918-431-4177.