A call for ideas to enhance Depot Park

Dear Editor,
Nestled in the center of our little village is a jewel we call Depot Park. We who live in Clarkston and surrounding Independence Township are privileged to have this pleasant oasis-like place to visit.
Many communities have nothing to rival it. Though small in size compared to some municipal parks ours commands a significant portion of our village for activities and pleasant retreats.
Year round people flock there to various public events: Art in the Village, Concerts in the Park, Shiver by the River, and Taste of Clarkston. At other times, private events like weddings and photo ops for graduating seniors, more casual strolls of parents with children or teenagers playing Pokémon phone apps in hand. Respondents on the city website score Depot Park 4.5 of 5.0.
Idyllic and serene millpond creek flows gently through the park traversed by two beautiful bridges, duck and goose crossings as well. A paved pathway runs its length from the parking lot in the north, past the children’s play area to the lovely new Clark bridge at the south end. The gazebo is the centerpiece with platform for bands and weddings or simply a backdrop for photos.
Cool as our park is we still want to polish this little gem to make it shine even more. Several months ago, Mayor Joe Luginski formed a citizens committee to the City Council to study ways to enhance the park.
This committee, the “Friends of Depot Park,” has been meeting and sharing many good ideas. To guide their efforts and explain their purpose they have formulated the following easy to understand mission or purpose statement: “To make qualitative improvements to Depot Park.”
To fulfill this mission, we are asking those who love and frequent the park to lend us their thoughts, comments, ideas and suggestions.
Specifically, what features, attributes or equipment, would add uniqueness to Depot Park? What art or music, elements or would complement its beauty? What games, or athletic events would further engage users? What beautiful and safe children’s playground equipment might bring smiles to young faces? Where and on what kinds of seats or benches would you like to relax in Depot Park? Well, you get the idea.
We are offering $100 awards for ideas we implement this year, an opportunity to get involved. So, please, think with us and send your ideas to me at havene@villageof clarkston.org.
Eric Haven, chairman
Friends of Depot Park Committee

Thanks for column insights on whiners

Dear Editor,
Don Rush’s article last week “If You Don’t Know….” was so true.
I enjoyed its designation of the “whiners.” When I was clerk (for Independence Township), these people would come in the end of October in an election year and wonder why a certain person wasn’t on the ballot.
Of course, that person was eliminated in the August Primary. Thanks for all you do to keep the community informed (and entertained).
Joan McCrary
Independence Township