When the tree by the boathouse starts to show the leaves turning, it means the summer is over and it is time to pack up and head south. The boat is in the water for one more week, so we will be able to see more color around the lake, as well as new summer homes under construction on the old Camp Mahn-go-tah-see property. We had a great summer with our Camp Maqua Centennial, great weather, lots of family and friends visiting, and some attention from local media and the Iosco County Historical Museum.

I had a wonderful email from 91-year-old Robert Sukenik, who sold us the lodge and developed the property. I sent him a poster, the article in the paper, and photos of the Centennial. He was thrilled and said he even got a bit weepy. Still sharp as a tack, he ordered tees for the friends who helped him when he developed the camp.

Cabin one was used all summer by friends and family, as was the cabin on the Clancy property, which now has a mini bathroom, (The cabin that stood next to the perimeter fence by the lake,) We are fortunate to have a nice tight-knit community that takes the overflow of our summer visitors when beds get tight:) The craft hut is going to get some love and attention, as time and weather have taken their toll on the exterior window frames. We had a new lock installed with the door adjusted, so it will be secure this winter. The money raised from our big event will help defray the cost of some of the repairs to the craft hut and Camp Brownie, which is still in use.

Thank you to all the girls who made the trip back to camp this summer. The merchandise site may still be open for a short time longer. Have a happy winter!