The newly renovated Amphitheater at Lucerne Park.

By Shari Benyousky
Photographs by Tony Garza

 “Everybody seems to be in a book club these days,” Tony ruminated, squinting at the stacks of books.

Every now and then he pulled one out and read the back, grunted, and put it back. “But where does a person go to read when they want to be alone in peace and quiet?”

“You mean when they’re tired of their own place?” I paused sweeping dead bittersweet leaves from the porch. “You make a good point.”

“Yeah, you know how it is. Ah ha!” Tony held up a book triumphantly. “When you’re at home, you think of all the things you should accomplish. Where else can one go to escape and not be bothered?”

Ramsey Pavilion behind Nye Cabin on Center Lake

If you’re looking for a spot close enough to the beach to hear the kids, but far enough away not to have to rescue anyone, walk down the shoreline to the new fountain feature and then keep going. You’ll find yourself in the lovely shade of the new Ramsey Pavilion located behind Nye Cabin. Bring yourself a little picnic and a cushion along with your favorite novel.

TIP: Need a place to have a party where you don’t have to clean your house? Rent the cabin from the Parks department here.

Amphitheater at Lucerne Park

Sure, you could wait for a live Shakespeare performance to enjoy the amphitheater, but the spot is a quiet and lovely venue for you and your favorite novel too. Park at the Lucerne Park parking lot and head directly toward the lake over the hill to find the amphitheater. You’ll have a nice view of kayaks and long-legged herons too.

TIP: go near sunset and enjoy the last of the sun-glow over Pike Lake.

The Preacher’s Stand at Oakwood Cemetery

Not long ago the Cemetery Board caused a little local flap with the idea of destroying the Preacher’s Stand (an old tradition once used for Memorial Day services), but the outcry of people who had grieved and loved the place over the years kept it alive. It’s a wonderful private place to go read. Drive down the Oakwood Cemetery entrance between the gorgeous burgundy maples and park in front of the park office building. You’ll find the preacher’s stand directly behind the office.

TIP: go when it’s raining and enjoy the pitter-patter on the metal roof.

Know of an interesting place, statue, or restaurant which you’d like to see featured in this column someday? Send SB Communications LLC an email at [email protected].