Lakeside Chautauqua and The Fine Print Bookstore will dedicate a Storybook Trail at Cherry Park to the children of Lakeside and in memory of Joan Price on Sunday, June 26 at 2:30 p.m.
Joan was born on Dec. 24, 1942, in Richmond, Indiana and passed away on Sept. 5, 2021. She started a long-time teaching career in Preble County Ohio, which developed into a passion for teaching special education. For 30 years, she touched the lives of many students.
After retirement, Joan and her longtime friend, Bev Bartczak, traveled extensively while continuing to educate and inspire children to appreciate other countries and cultures by writing about their travels on a blog and later visiting schools to share their experiences.
In 2011, Joan and Bev opened The Fine Print bookstore in Lakeside. Joan’s love of reading and passion for adventure and travel led to many popular programs at the bookstore that continue today.
Joan was instrumental in spreading joy about reading to Lakesiders of all ages. To honor her memory, a new Storybook Trail in Cherry Park will welcome children and families to read, learn, grow and enjoy the outdoors together.
To bring the books to life, there are 20 reading stations spaced out across Cherry Park, each containing a page from a children’s book. The path starts by the tire swing near the playground and weaves clockwise for a whimsical adventure.
The stories will change regularly, so new adventures await every week in the summer, and the fun never ends. The first featured story is Tad and Dad by David Ezra Stein. It’s a funny and tender tale of a growing tadpole who loves his frog dad so much he never gives him a moment’s peace.
At the dedication, Lakeside Chautauqua President & CEO Kip Greenhill will provide the welcome and introduction. The Rev. Dr. Charles Yoost, Senior Director of Religious Life & Pastoral Care, will give an invocation and share memories about Joan’s impact at Lakeside, and Chip Richter will share his music as we dedicate the Storybook Trail.
Many community members generously gave a meaningful gift in memory of Joan to celebrate her life and all her work at The Fine Print Bookstore. Everyone is invited to attend this celebration and dedication.
If you would like to give a gift to enrich the grounds and parks, you can give online at lakesideohio.com/today.
