Coos Bay school helps launch new Prefontaine book

b/w photo of Steve Prefontaine

By Azenith Smith

COOS BAY, Ore. - Hoping to attract a new generation of fans for local running legend Steve Prefontaine, a Coos Bay elementary school helped kick off a new book about him.

On Monday, students at Blossom Gulch Elementary School celebrated the launch of the just-released book titled Steve Prefontaine Rocketman.

Written by New Jersey author Bree Donavan and Prefontaine's sister, Linda, it's a story targeted to young children about Pre's life and what it's like to grow up in a small town. The overall message is that anyone can accomplish their goals no matter where they're from.

"You don't have to be rich, you don't have to come from a big city," said Linda. "You can come from a small community, and you just have to believe in yourself and have some dreams and go for it."

Linda decided to get on board with the project after Donavan said all book sales will go to a charity of her choice.

She decided to help the arts and music programs at Blossom Gulch, a school she and Steve attended. The money will also help fund a program that promotes physical education.

"For us, athletics is really our LAPS program," said Principal Jennifer Haliski. "We have boys and girls who run during their recesses, morning, lunch and in the afternoon. They earn incentives so today, we're honoring our top LAPS award winners for each grade level."

If you are interested in purchasing the book, it's available in the area at Books By the Bay and Huggins Insurance or you can purchase it online .
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