As the summer draws to a close and I contemplate one more This Week in Montreat, here are some notes and musings that I thought would make for a good write-up if I could just make the summer last a little bit longer:
- Lake Susan is getting a makeover, a project funded by the State of North Carolina and aimed at enhancing the beauty, functionality, and ecological health of this beloved Montreat landmark. Chief among the goals will be removing the sediment that has gathered in the lake basin over the past twenty years or so, along with taking steps for better maintenance of the lake going forward. The resulting deeper waters will benefit both wildlife and our recreation activities. Plans for the renovation are still being finalized.
- When the PCUSA’s 226th General Assembly elected the Rev. CeCe Armstrong and the Rev. Tony Larson as co-moderators, we noticed here in Freeland Hall. Both Tony and CeCe have served in leadership in Montreat on several occasions, and CeCe currently serves on the MRA Board of Directors/Trustees. Also worth mentioning: Though she is already preparing to represent the Presbyterian Church for the next two years at home and abroad, CeCe is here in Montreat right now, serving as a small group leader at our last two youth conferences. With so much ahead of her, CeCe is here, one of dozens of committed volunteers, doing unheralded but vitally important ministry. (Your commitment doesn’t surprise us, CeCe, but it’s one of many reasons why we love you!)
- Reporting back on something I mentioned a couple of months ago, we did end up recruiting a full summer staff, thanks to late recruits, some job-sharing, and management in the program office. We’re not clear whether this years’ experience was a black swan event or the beginning of a new trend. We will keep you posted as we learn more, while we celebrate the amazing job that this year’s summer staff did for all of us!
- On an unrelated note, the pressure for spots in our Clubs recreation programs reached new heights this summer (at least in my experience), surpassing last summer’s own subjective but very real “record high.” If this increasing pressure represents a trend, solving the challenge won’t be easy. Finding staff is one thing; finding physical space is altogether more difficult. Balancing staff and space availability with the need to deliver good experiences for those enrolled is a key focus of our planning going forward.
- At the Patrons Reception this summer, Development Foundation Chair Chip Legerton announced the next class of Montreaters to be awarded the foundation’s Medallion of Merit. Recipients include Anne and Bill Straughn, Jane Holt, and Dick and Susanne Query. While news that these well-known Montreaters would be honored was met with enthusiastic appreciation, a couple of folks followed up with a polite but direct question: “What (the heck) is the medallion of merit?” The answer to that question deserves a full column, and I won’t wait until next summer to write it.
For now, let me extend my deepest gratitude to those honorees for their lifetime of service to Montreat and, while I’m at it, my thanks as well to all the staff, volunteers, and participants in our summer of 2024. Your enthusiasm and engagement made the difference in every event, workshop, and gathering. As you say so long to this season, carry with you into the next not only memories of our time together but the opportunity to spread joy, discovery, and togetherness to others. May the grace of God enfold you, guide your steps, and illuminate your path. And may that path lead you here once again.
Richard DuBose
President, Montreat Conference Center