How one family can form future change

Barb Rush in Honcho

Clarkston, Michigan, is a small town filled with meaningful stories from its residents. Given the chance to speak with Barb Rush and her niece Lindsey Baker, I got to learn more about what Clarkston means to its residents.

Rush grew up spending her summers in Clarkston. “I grew up in Clarkston and in Allen Park,” she explained. “My parents, my grandparents lived here, right on Robinson Court…I’ve spent summers here since I was three or four.”

Rush also shared a funny detail about her childhood nickname, saying, “There were only two people that called me by my nickname, which was Barbie, because the Barbie dolls came out when I was little, but I hate that nickname.”

Rush has had two careers, first practicing law for 14 years, and now leading Clarkson Scamp, a camp that welcomes people of all ages and disabilities. “When I started at Scamp, everyone always talked about Scamp being a camp for special needs kids, but it’s also for adults,” Rush explained. “It’s still important even when people are adults to feel like they’re part of a community and that they belong.”

Lindsey Baker grew up in Clarkston as well. She remembers her childhood fondly. “My family used to call me Lindsey Lou…My best friends growing up were named Lindsey and Jojo. We loved playing outside and going on adventures, and we all had very good imaginations.”

Baker believes it’s important to set a good example for others. “Make sure you have a good work-life balance, and when you are a leader of people, make sure you set a good example by leading by example rather than being mean,” she explained.

Her dream superpower? She says it would be “teleportation” because she loves to travel, but hates flying and “the act of actually getting places.”

Both Rush and Baker’s stories show how Clarkston is more than just a town, it’s a community full of family, kindness, and tradition. Their experiences remind us why Clarkston is a special place to live.