The Clark Lake Spirit Trail Spring Cleanup is all about saying goodbye to what winter left behind.

Volunteers gather at the trailhead in the County Park, Dan Omo outlines what needs attention, and workers spread out around the lake to beautify this wonderful amenity.  Both the path through the County Park and the section parallel to Jefferson Road were covered with gravel, dirt, and sticks.

In the video, you’ll see Dan, Tricia Boyers, Nicki Kennedy, and Tim Studer clearing the area in the park.  On the Jefferson Road section, Chris Donahue put his high-tech solution into action–watch it make fast work of clearing the way.  Tucker Boyers team worked on the cut-through between Oakwood and the South Woodlands.

But wait, there’s more.

Lemon and Jack Lyons helped on Lakeview West and Sandy Beach.

It was a chilly start to the day, but bright sun warmed up the crew all around the lake.  Truly, the key element was the Clark Lake Spirit, which leads to this fact:  The Spirit Trail only exists because Clark Lakers believed it should.

What began as an idea became reality through planning, fundraising, and ultimately construction—powered by a community willing to step up. Many played a role, but among those who helped lead the charge were Tom Collins, Dick Cochran, George Svinicki, Pat Dwyer, and Ann Swain. Their determination helped break through barriers and inspired others to join in.

It’s important to remember: the Spirit Trail didn’t happen on its own. Energized by the Clark Lake Spirit, it stands as the result of hard work and countless volunteer hours—creating a path that allows walkers, runners, and cyclists to circumnavigate the lake.

That same spirit was on full display again this morning.  Hats off to Dan Omo, Tucker Boyers, and the entire Spirit Trail Committee for their continued dedication.

That spirit also carries through to another signature Clark Lake event—Run Clark Lake. Now celebrating 50 years, and from the beginning shepherded by Pat Dwyer, the race draws a thousand or more participants each August and has provided the critical funding when Spirit Trail projects require outside contractors.

And the support doesn’t stop there. The Welcome to Clark Lake Sign was brought to life through the efforts of Annette Fink and lake supporters.  Add to that the many who purchased engraved brass plaques, and it stands as another lasting symbol of what Standing Up for Clark Lake can accomplish.