Clarkston Optimists Jessie McDonald, John McDonald, and Bill Kunse display a flag from their Flag for Kids Project. Photo by Phil Custodio

Clarkston Optimists hope to make this town a city of flags with its Flag for Kids Project.
“The project is a good way to honor our country, and support our community,” said Optimist Jessie McDonald. “We’re ready to go for Memorial Day.”
“We’d love to see them all the way down Main Street,” said Optimist John McDonald.
Participating residents and businesses in Clarkston and Independence Township pay $40 per year for flags to be put in front of their places on six holidays, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Patriot Day, and Veterans Day.
Participants get an 18-inch galvanized stand pounded flush into the ground. Club members and volunteers will then place and remove the 3-by-5-foot American flags, all on 10-foot poles, during the holidays. When participants move or unsubscribe, the Optimists will remove the flag stands.
“We put it up, take it down, replace it if it gets frayed. There’s no mess and no trouble,” said Optimist Bill Kunse. “This is something we think this community will support. It’s patriotic, and it’s for the kids.”
Proceeds will support the Optimists’ community and youth programs, scholarships, and activities.
To subscribe, call 586-243-9987 or email info@clarkstonoptimists.org.