CELINA — Members of the Lake Improvement Association heard updates on community projects, lake improvement efforts, state park developments and a rapidly growing local business during their June meeting.

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Treasurer Ted Bertke reported the organization maintains a checkbook balance of $65,034.71. In May, the association transferred $100,000 to the St. Marys Community Foundation, which manages funds and pays project expenses on the association's behalf.

One of the featured presentations came from Eagle Scout candidate Ben Hanewald of Celina-based Troop 69. Hanewald outlined plans to construct an 8-foot-wide, 20-foot-long pedestrian and utility bridge in Grand Lake St. Marys State Park. The bridge will connect visitors to the Red Wing Nature Preserve and accommodate park maintenance equipment.

The project carries an estimated cost of $11,388.95, with most expenses tied to steel materials. Hanewald is seeking financial support from organizations and businesses as he works toward completing the project and earning his Eagle Scout rank.

Association leaders also provided updates on several ongoing initiatives. The West Bank Playground recently celebrated its ribbon-cutting ceremony, while efforts continue to complete the All Abilities Playground. Organizers say approximately $17,675 is still needed to fully fund that project, which they hope to have installed before the Kids Fishing Derby in September.

The association also announced a $5,000 contribution toward the 2026 Lake Festival fireworks display and promoted upcoming events including the Bicycle Poker Run, Boardwalk Fest, Governor's Cup Regatta and the Barstool Open golf fundraiser.

Theresa Dirksen provided an agriculture and natural resources update, reporting continued success from wetland projects that are reducing phosphorus, nitrate and sediment levels entering Grand Lake. She also highlighted progress at the Red Wing Nature Preserve, Prairie Creek and Beaver Creek wetland projects, as well as preparations for the upcoming Manure Science Review in Mercer County.

Grand Lake St. Marys State Park Manager Dave Faler reported a successful Memorial Day camping weekend despite rainy conditions. Faler said campground visitors caused minimal damage, with only two vehicle ruts requiring repairs among the park's 208 campsites.

Faler also detailed several ongoing park improvement projects, including construction of a new camp store and office facility, restroom upgrades, repairs at the East Bank boat launch and improvements at the 40-Acre Pond area.

The meeting concluded with a presentation from Chris Monroe and Andrew Vogel, founders of the Boat Busters YouTube channel and marine restoration business based in St. Marys.

Monroe told attendees the channel has grown to more than 265,000 subscribers in just over two years, making it one of the fastest-growing marine-focused channels on YouTube. The pair restore boats, repair outboard motors and teach viewers how to buy, repair and resell watercraft.

The business recently established its headquarters in St. Marys and operates a companion online community called Boat Buys, where members receive boat repair guidance and educational resources. Vogel said the community has attracted members from nearly every state and several countries while helping users troubleshoot hundreds of outboard motors.

Association officials reminded attendees that no meeting will be held in July. The next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 1.