Matt Dault’s “Fly Away” mural and Dan Recla’s metal butterfly sculptures were commissioned by LAPP to enhance the area as part of the group’s Sunset Beach project.

The event took place as part of the non-profit’s annual spring cleanup to prepare for the opening of the season May 24.

Dault’s mural features butterflies that are native to Dickinson County, including monarchs, swallowtails, and admirals.

The veteran noted it is one of his biggest and most inspiring pieces to date, as it shows a lot of life and vibrancy. “I hope people will love it,” Dault said.

IN FRONT OF artist Matt Dault’s “Fly Away” mural at Lake Antoine Park are, from left, Allison Lucier, Barb Kramer, Joe Stevens, Carrie Torreta-Partello, Dault, Dan Recla, Nancy Johnson deKoster and Ann Hruska. (Karen Klenke photo)

Dault also incorporated hidden treasures such as bumble bees for kids to spot.

“It was a really fun piece to do — it’s for all ages,” he said.

Recla, who is also a veteran, created multiple sizes of three-dimensional butterflies that now highlight the shore wall of the building.

He noted that after seeing the size of Dault’s mural, he knew he needed to go further.

The folk metal artist said the butterflies are made from stainless steel to withstand the weather elements.

“I loved doing them — I had so much fun,” he said.

LAPP treasurer and project chairman Ann Hruska detailed future plans for the area to volunteers and visitors.

In addition to the new butterfly art, the group hopes to create a handicapped-accessible picnic area with two tables and four benches.

After the old asphalt and concrete is removed, they will add a second new butterfly garden bed in front of the building.

LAPP encourages anyone interested in joining the group’s efforts at the park to attend their next meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Breitung Township Hall in Quinnesec. Refreshments will be available.

“This is our most important meeting of the year, with the campground about to formally open for the season,” said Allison Lucier, LAPP president.

The volunteer group develops projects that enhance visitor experiences, provide community events and/or fund amenities in the park.

They will also put the finishing touches on 2024 plans for work days, Free Family Fishing Fun, Fall Fest, Lights at the Lake and KOALA — Kites Over Awesome Lake Antoine, said Doni-Mae B. Rauch, LAPP vice president.

“We are always looking for new ideas for happenings at the park,” Lucier said. “If you have ideas on how folks can enjoy this park, please come to our meeting and talk with us.”

Meetings are on the first Wednesday of every month at the campground during the summer and in the Dickinson County conference room during the off-season months.

The mission of Lake Antoine Park Partners-Dickinson County is to preserve, improve, promote and protect Lake Antoine Park for the use and benefit of the general public. Lake Antoine Park Partners is a 501(c)(3) organization.