Anyone driving by the scenic, Brookfield side of Candlewood Lake has likely seen the new cedar-colored clubhouse rising like a star at Candlewood East Marina. And that's exactly what Mitch O'Hara, Jr. has in mind. A bright and starry future for his growing family (five girls and eventually grandchildren) to live in while working 15 hours a day, 7 days a week during the summer season at the busy 240-slip marina and boat sales shop.
Meanwhile rumors have been swirling that the new facility was was built for everything from a catering hall to compete with the Candlewood Inn to a night club similar to Down the Hatch.
As it turns out, none of this is true. Another one of the rumors is that you will be able to buy a membership without buying a boat. Or if you buy a boat you have to board it there, at the private marina. Again, not all true. So when asked "what's up?" Mitch Jr. was candid and proud of the newest, most enhancing landmark Brookfield has seen in decades.
Q: What prompted you to build such a large building? Are you adding restaurants?
A: First of all, we've always had a small residence at the marina. But as our family grew we needed a larger one, since they are now old enough to start working. The entire top floor, which will be completed at a later date, will be our home when we work during the summer season. There are no new restaurants being added.
Q: So this is a family-run business?
A: Absolutely. We want to pave the way for future generations so we have put our money back in to the business as best we can. I still have my mother, father, sister, sister-in-law and bother-in-law working here as well as my daughters (Bridget, 19, is receptionist, Michelle, 18, works in the pro-shop, 17 year-old twins Carolyn and Rachel are lifeguards and Erinn, age 11, you could say, promotes wake-boarding and surf boarding by example.
Q: How did you decide on the style of building?
A: We wanted a country-club look, since that's basically what we are. We added more dining area outside and built indoor dining for up to 30 people. The bathrooms were upgraded and dressing rooms, counters and sinks that are much larger which makes much more appealing. The kitchen was upgraded and all the utilities are now year-round.
A: As a matter of fact, the modification was already approved with the initial plans so we made sure the septic and water are in the right place. I have no idea when that will happen but at least we're set up for it. We don't want to do too much too soon.
Q: What other changes have taken place in the past year?
A: We used to sublease the snack bar, but now it's run in-house. We stay open rain or shine, which most subcontractors can't afford to do. If someone wants to cater a party, we have a loading entrance so other members aren't bothered by the traffic flow inside the picnic area.
Q: What is the rumor about the "Social Membership"?
A: That is for people who have bought a boat here but live on other parts of the lake. We also keep a number of slots open for new boat buyers. You can also buy just aSocial Membership" but they are limited and have a waiting list.
Q: Will there be a bar added at a later date?
A: We have no plans for that. We don't serve alcohol, although members are allowed to bring their own if they want to.
Q: Do type of boats do you sell and why?
A: We sell mostly Cobalts, which are considered the Mercedes of boats, Nautique and Malibu are the sportier ones. All are good family boats with the Nautique being the favorite for water sports. The Malibu is bigger and comparable to both. We have a great sales staff who are locals and have all been here for years.
Q: So no plans for retirement or selling the business?
A: God, no. Look around. There are a lot worse places to work. There are no silent partners so we are independent in what we do. Shakespeare's Gardens helps keep it looking beautiful and if I had my way, there would be a "Lake District" in Brookfield. It would run from Candlewood East to the Candlewood Inn. It's a cockamamie idea but it would increase awareness to all the great Lake activities Brookfield has to offer. It would also increase land value, tax revenue and curb appeal to Brookfield's piece of Candlewood Lake. It could be considered the "Gateway to the Lake."
For more information on Candlewood East Marina call (203) 775-2253