Sky the dog, at Depot Park with William and Zack Gifford for SCAMP’s Walk and Roll, greets the new bronze dog at the playground. Photo by Phil Custodio

Depot Park has a new guardian keeping watch over those who approach the playground, a dog made of bronze.
Purchased through private donations, the statue is a tribute to James and Gini Schultz, and other city volunteers, said City Manager Jonathan Smith.
James and Gini, who lived in downtown Clarkston before recently retiring and moving away, worked tirelessly for their hometown, said neighbor Don Frayer of Clarkston.
“It’s amazing what they did, but you wouldn’t see them put their names on things,” Frayer said. “That’s just the way they are.”
The metal mastiff is so far unnamed, with the city hosting a “Name the Depot Park Dog” contest. Possible names listed on the contest flyer include “Bark Clark,” “Fred,” “Barker Holcomb,” “Depot Dog,” and “Clarky.” Visiting the park for Walk and Roll on Sunday, William and Zack Gifford’s idea for a name was “Lexi.”
Send suggestions to Clarkston city hall in Depot Park, or email SpeagleJ@villageof clarkston.org.
– Phil Custodio