Triangle Family Magazine – March/April 2024

EDITOR’S LETTER

Where do your travels take you? Perhaps to North Carolina’s breathtaking beaches or leafy mountains, or farther away to another state or country. My happiest memories are family vacations in rugged coastal Maine, laid-back Cape Cod, the sunny Florida Keys and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Two years ago, we hiked three awe-inspiring places on our bucket list: Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon—and they didn’t disappoint! These trips brought us closer together. Even though my children are older (college and post-college), they still want to vacation with Mom and Dad, and we embrace these fleeting moments knowing that one day they’ll be exploring destinations with their own families.

Our great state of North Carolina is renowned for its rich culture and breathtaking beauty, and there are endless options for your family to experience them. Check out Melissa Wistehuff’s comprehensive list of places and events in “Go, Play, See” on page 10. From the mountains to the coast, you’ll find plenty of resources to add to your own bucket list. If you’re inclined to stay right here at home, don’t miss our “12 Triangle Gems” feature on page 20 for local places you and your kids can explore to your hearts’ delight.

Ten-year-old Harper Harrell is more than an inspiration: The Duke basketball fan, who recently battled leukemia, has raised more than $27,000 for cancer research and started a nonprofit organization, Harper’s Home, that will one day provide short-term housing for families with a child in treatment at Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center. Kurt Dusterberg shares her uplifting story on page 26, and it’s sure to make you smile.

Did you know that the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo? Located just 90 minutes from the Triangle, the zoo celebrates wildlife and nature by giving 1,800 animals space to roam on its vast acreage. It also offers outdoor recreation activities for all ages and abilities, including Zoofari rides, a Garden Friends Playground and an Endangered Species Carousel. Discover all that awaits at this sanctuary dedicated to conservation and education in “Exploring the Family-Friendly Wonders of the North Carolina Zoo” on page 30.

Hunting season has officially begun! Whether your children are scouring the ground for Easter eggs in any of the well-planned annual egg hunts across the Triangle listed on page 34, or searching for gems and fossils nearby with advice from Anita Stone’s “Backyard Treasures” on page 36, they’re sure to find what brings them joy.

If you’re like me and curious about the sport of fencing (and why players use swords!), turn to page 38 to read “Carving Out a Niche,” which tells about its game play and spotlights the owners of Apex Fencing Academy and two of its star athletes.

In closing, I’d like to thank my predecessor, Beth Shugg, whose unwavering commitment to produce a parenting magazine for Triangle families is the reason behind our continued success. As Triangle Family’s new editor, I—along with an outstanding team—remain as dedicated as she was in crafting an exceptional publication presenting accurate, educational and entertaining information to everyone involved in a child’s life. Email me at janice@trianglefamilymag.com with comments and story ideas—because we are all Triangle Family.

Janice Lewine

Janice Lewine, Editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIC LEWINE

PUBLISHERS

Ronny Stephens

Kent Braswell

EDITOR

Janice Lewine

ART AND WEB DIRECTOR

Sean Byrne

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Fran Sherman

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Cristian Iancu

Dathan Kazsuk

SECTION EDITORS

Kurt Dusterberg

Health, Wellness and Youth Sports

Melissa Wistehuff

Travel and Entertainment

COPY EDITOR

Cindy Huntley

CONTRIBUTORS

Elizabeth Brignac, Jenny Midgley, Josh Manning, Jennifer Primrose, Anita B. Stone, Dr. Kristen Wynns, Ph.D.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

Melissa Wistehuff

SALES DIRECTOR

Sherry Braswell

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Stefanie McClary

Paige Gunter

DISTRIBUTION

Joe Lizana

Berry Media Group

DistribuTech.net

Triangle Family magazine is published six times annually. Any reproduction in part or in whole of any part of this publication is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher. Copyright 2024. All rights reserved.

Triangle Family magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or art. Unsolicited material is welcome and is considered intended for publication. Such material becomes the property of the magazine and is subject to editing. Triangle Family magazine will not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of U.S. equal opportunity law.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

6 print issues per year

Available online at trianglefamilymag.com

4818-204 Six Forks Road

Raleigh, North Carolina 27609

Phone: 919.782.4710

Fax: 919.782.4763

Don't

26

30

34

36

38

Fencing

42

Social

Photo courtesy of the

All net! Cole (16) of Apex shoots a free throw for his Middle Creek High School Mustangs basketball

PHOTO

ERICA DELONG

PHOTO BY MONÉ KINARD

PHOTO BY KADEN ROBINSON

Good game! Jayson and Ian (both 11) of Raleigh celebrate after a big game.

PHOTO BY MELISSA WISTEHUFF

Would you like your child featured in SOCIAL KIDS? Email your favorite photos and a short description to editors@trianglefamilymag.com

PHOTO BY ASHLEY ALLEN

Cashton (3) of Fuquay-Varina stops to smell the flowers while tagging along at his big brother’s baseball practice.

Going for gold! Emalyn (11) and Belle (8) of Raleigh bring home lots of new hardware after a dance competition in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

team.

Adalynn (5) of Raleigh enjoys a cool treat after visiting the butterflies at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham.

PHOTO BY TAMARA BATES

Ella (5) of Morrisville passes the time by drawing as she waits for her lunch to arrive.

BY

INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND

Kids Together Playground , a disability-accessible venue at the Marla Dorrel Park in Cary, has installed a swing designed for wheelchair users. We-Go-Swing allows children to wheel their device onto the swing and use handlebars to create the swinging motion.

The nonprofit park, located at 111 Thurston Drive, uses universal design techniques to make its spaces accessible to all kids, regardless of age, size and ability. Features include a sand table, play structures, graded ramps and a dragon climbing structure–along with plenty of functional foliage to provide shade for guests. For more information, visit kidstogethercary.org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KIDS TOGETHER PLAYGROUND

FLAG FOOTBALL PILOT PROGRAM

Carolina Panthers Charities Funding has made a $47,500 grant to the Wake County Public School System to launch a pilot program for women’s flag football at 19 high schools this spring.

The pilot year will consist of three Saturday tournament-style competitions. Grant funding will cover game officials, coaching stipends, field preparation and other game-related expenses. The NFL team is also providing each participating high school with practice equipment and 25 sets of custom-made Nike uniforms. The Panthers launched the campaign in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in 2022.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAROLINA PANTHERS

JUNIOR CANES TRYOUTS

The Carolina Junior Canes hockey program holds tryouts in April and May for Tier 1 AAA (ages 11U–16U) and Tier 2 travel hockey. Skaters and goalies are put through sets of drills, small-area games and full-ice scrimmages while being evaluated by the coaching staff. The organization strives to place each player at the correct level of play to ensure their growth and development.

Junior Canes also offers girls’ Tier 1 AAA (ages 14U–19U) and Tier 2 travel teams. The organization’s Super 8 development program is designed for players ages 8 and younger as an introduction to travel hockey. For more information, visit carolinajuniorhurricanes.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAROLINA HURRICANES

MIRACLE LEAGUE SPRING SEASON

Miracle League of the Triangle will host its spring baseball season from March 19 through May 18. The organization serves nearly 500 players with special needs each season on 30 teams. Games are played at three fields in Cary, Raleigh and Durham. Anyone ages 5 and older with a diagnosed disability or IE/504 plan is eligible to play. The program promotes physical activity and social interaction.

Miracle League welcomes volunteers. Anyone age 12 years or older is welcome to volunteer as a Buddy and attend an on-site training session before each shift. For more information, visit mltriangle.com.

PHOTO BY 33FT - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

JANICE LEWINE

DIVE INTO SENSORY PLAY AT MARBLES KIDS MUSEUM’S NEWEST EXHIBIT

Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh recently unveiled a hands-on sensory exploration exhibit called “Under the Waves.” Resembling a deep-sea environment, the exhibit offers multisensory play and immersive exploration for children of all ages and abilities. It features a larger-than-life octopus, light-up bubble tubes, compression canoes and other activities. Located behind doors that limit sound exposure from the museum, “Under the Waves” is also outfitted with dimmer switches and calm colors for kids who are sensory-sensitive. Advance admission tickets for Marbles Kids Museum are required online at marbleskidsmuseum.org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARBLES KIDS MUSEUM

STATE SUPERINTENDENT CELEBRATES HOUR OF CODE WITH MIDDLE SCHOOLERS

The media center of East Millbrook Magnet Middle School in Raleigh became a STEM laboratory on December 12 when students showed off their programming skills for State Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt and Wake County Public School System Superintendent Dr. Robert P. Taylor. The event celebrated the district’s monthlong Hour of Code, which came on the heels of national Computer Science Education Week. Students participated in codingbased design challenges, which included programming a robot to move from one precise location to another and coding a device to play tic-tac-toe.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION

NORTH CAROLINA PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE FEDERAL FUNDING FOR 114 ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUSES

Governor Roy Cooper recently announced that North Carolina will receive $26.7 million in federal funds to purchase 114 electric school buses as part of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean School Bus Program. Grant recipients include public schools, charter schools and tribal schools. Over 98% of the buses will be deployed in prioritized school districts in low-income, rural and tribal communities, serving over 300,000 students across 13 counties. Durham Public Schools will get 38 of those buses.

PHOTO BY LEEKRIS - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

LATEST DATA SHOWS CONTINUED IMPROVEMENTS ON LEARNING RECOVERY

A new analysis of North Carolina 2022–23 test results indicates clear signs of continued academic recovery from the pandemic. The 2023 Year-Over-Year Analysis Report on Recovery from COVID-19 indicates further progress toward the recovery thresholds, meaning that North Carolina schools are steadily continuing to recover from the pandemic with gains across virtually all grades and subjects. Two of 16 standardized assessments (EOG Reading Grade 3 and EOC English II) already show gains above the recovery thresholds. On average, the data shows that schools are showing signs of academic recovery in nearly every subject, with the strongest gains measured in EOG Reading Grade 3. Notable gains are also found in reading and math for grades 3–5 and science grade 5.

PHOTO BY COMEBACK IMAGES - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

LIZ BRIGNAC

TRIANGLE-AREA HOSPITAL MATERNITY CARE PROGRAMS NAMED AMONG STATE’S BESTS

Three Triangle-area hospital maternity care programs were named among the top five in North Carolina for 2024 in a U.S. News & World Report ranking released in December. UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, UNC Rex Hospital in Raleigh and Duke Regional Hospital in Durham ranked number one, two and four respectively for maternity care. U.S. News & World Report ranks hospital maternity care according to the services and amenities provided as well as care quality and safety measures.

PHOTO BY PHOTOSTRIKER - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

CLEAN CLASSROOMS FOR CAROLINA KIDS LAUNCHES

The award-winning Clean Water for Carolina Kids program recently expanded to include a new program: Clean Classrooms for Carolina Kids. The program’s goal is to eliminate asbestos and lead in facilities where children learn and play. “Exposure to lead and asbestos can have lifelong health impacts, and children are particularly susceptible to these harmful effects” writes Erica Wood, a research environmental scientist for the program, in an email. “Testing to-date in North Carolina has found lead in water over 1 ppb (the American Academy of Pediatrics reference level) from at least one tap in 53% of child care facilities. If lead or asbestos are identified in a building, actions can be taken to reduce or eliminate the hazard.”

PHOTO BY WCKIW - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MAY ASSIST FUTURE ADHD DIAGNOSES IN ADOLESCENTS

Advances in AI technology may be a game-changer in diagnosing ADHD in adolescents, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) in December. An AI program examined MRI scans of 1,700 adolescents and found significant differences in nine white matter tracts in the brains of kids with ADHD. White matter, collections of nerve fibers in the brain, helps different regions of the brain communicate with one another, and this research shows significant differences in the quality of white matter in ADHD adolescent brains. Researchers hope these findings will pave the way for more objective and reliable ADHD diagnoses.

PHOTO BY PICKUP - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

SEVEN NORTH CAROLINA SUMMER NUTRITION PROGRAMS RECEIVE AWARDS

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction recently recognized seven accredited Summer Nutrition Programs throughout the state for their efforts in going above and beyond to provide nutritious meals and educational enrichment to kids and teens when school is out. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake County earned the Going the Distance Innovation Award for providing over 25 different programs to children to encourage healthy eating, including its Healthy Habits curriculum, culinary lessons, gardening and physical activity. Franklin County Schools, Cumberland County Schools and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Coastal Plain were among the other programs recognized during SummerPalooza! Summits that were held across the state.

PHOTO BY KUVONA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

GO , PLAY, SEE

Where to find fun across North Carolina

BY MELISSA WISTEHUFF

From the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and rolling hills of the Piedmont, to the wide, sandy beaches of the Outer Banks, North Carolina is known for its breathtaking beauty. Steeped in rich culture and history, and set amongst a backdrop of awe-inspiring nature and landscapes, there are endless options for ideal getaways that fit a variety of interests.

North Carolina ranks among the top 10 most-visited places in the U.S., according to the North Carolina Department of Commerce. To prove that the “Old North State” is known for more than barbecue and Cheerwine, we’ve compiled a bucket list of places and events you must experience. We’ll start in the west and travel east, highlighting where to GO, places to PLAY and things to SEE throughout North Carolina—keeping in mind that our home state is so great, we surely can’t fit all the fun on one list.

As singer James Taylor croons, “I’m gone to Carolina in my mind.”

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH

PHOTO COURTESY OF WILMINGTON AND BEACHES

CAROWINDS, CHARLOTTE

PHOTO COU R TESY OF CAROWINDS

GET UP AND GO

THE MOUNTAINS

Approximately 23 counties form the North Carolina mountain region, encompassing countless acres of lush green (or white‑peaked, depending on the time of year) scenic views. Here are the places that made our “must go to” list.

BILTMORE ESTATE

Asheville

biltmore.com

The 250 room Biltmore Estate is America’s largest home and the top attraction in North Carolina, according to Tripadvisor. The French Renaissance castle sits in the heart of Asheville and is considered to be the “crown jewel” of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Still owned by the Vanderbilt family, Biltmore Estate welcomes nearly 1.7 million visitors each year. In addition to the main house, the 8,000 acre estate includes beautiful gardens and America’s first managed forest,

all designed by New York City’s Central Park designer Frederick Law Olmsted.

FINE FESTIVALS

Soak up North Carolina mountain culture at these annual festivals across the region. Festivals are listed in order of date.

MerleFest, Wilkesboro April 25–28, 2024 merlefest.org

Christmas in July Festival West Jefferson July 5–6, 2024 christmasinjulyfestival.com

Hillbilly Jam, Maggie Valley July 26–27, 2024 thehillbillyjam.com

Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, Swannanoa

August 1–3, 2024 folkheritage.org/asheville events/mountain dance and folk festival

Mayberry Days, Mount Airy September 23–29, 2024 surryarts.org/mayberrydays

Woolly Worm Festival, Banner Elk October 19–20, 2024 woollyworm.com

Apple Harvest Festival Waynesville

October 19, 2024 romanticasheville.com/apple harvest festival

BUSTLING BARNYARDS

Apples, alpacas and Christmas trees, oh my! Here are some mountain area farms you should add to your list as you travel west.

Apple Hill Farm, Banner Elk applehillfarmnc.com

Darnell Farms, Bryson City darnellfarms.com

Gladheart Farm, Asheville gladheartfarm.org

Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such Hendersonville grandadsapples.com

New River Corn Maze, Boone newrivercornmaze.com

The Orchard at Altapass Spruce Pine altapassorchard.org

Smoky Mountain Tree Farm Waynesville smokymountaintreefarm.com

Sweet Betsy Farm, Marion sweetbetsyfarm.com

Winchester Creek Farm Waynesville winchestercreekfarm.com

BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS OF NORTH CAROLINA

PHOTO COURTESY OF C2 PHOTOGRAPHY/EXPLOREASHEVILLE.COM

BILTMORE ESTATE, ASHEVILLE

PHOTO COURTESY OF JARED KAY/EXPLOREASHVILLE.COM

THE PIEDMONT

North Carolina might be known for its majestic mountains and relaxing beaches, but don’t underestimate the Piedmont region. Gentle slopes, evergreen landscapes and bustling cities mixed with charming towns give this region plenty of bragging rights.

FIRST-CLASS FESTS AND FAIRS

Festivals are listed in order of date.

North Carolina Pickle Festival Mt. Olive

April 27, 2024 ncpicklefest.org

Dreamville Festival

Raleigh

April 6–7, 2024 dreamvillefest.com

The Fayetteville Dogwood Festival Fayetteville

April 26–28, 2024 thedogwoodfestival.com/ new folder

Durham Blues & Brews Festival

Durham

May 18, 2024 durhambluesandbrewsfestival.com

Got to Be NC Festival

Raleigh

May 17–19, 2024 gottobencfestival.com

North Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Festival

Concord

June 15, 2024

eventbrite.com/e/2024 north carolina juneteenth festival tickets 788705117237

Festival for the Eno Durham

July 4 and 6, 2024 enofest.org

Benson Mule Days Benson

September 26–28, 2024 bensonmuledays.com

Carolina BalloonFest Statesville

October 18–20, 2024 carolinaballoonfest.com

Barbecue Festival

Lexington

October 26, 2024 thebarbecuefestival.com

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival

Cary

November 2024–January 2025 facebook.com/ ncchineselanternfestival

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

The Piedmont region is home to numerous zoos and animal rescue organizations, all of which are unique and worthy of a day trip. Here are just a few to explore.

North Carolina Zoo Asheboro nczoo.org

The world’s largest natural habitat zoo, the North Carolina Zoo cares for 1,800 animals from 250 different species. With two distinct sections, Africa and North America, the zoo offers an entire day of family friendly fun for animal lovers. Don’t miss the Acacia Station Giraffe Deck or the Treehouse Trek.

MORE ZOOS TO ROAR ABOUT

Aloha Safari Park Cameron alohasafarizoo.org

Carolina Tiger Rescue Pittsboro carolinatigerrescue.org

Duke Lemur Center

Durham lemur.duke.edu

Lazy 5 Ranch

Mooresville thelazy5ranch.com

Spring Haven Farm

Chapel Hill

springhaven.farm

Sea Life

Concord visitsealife.com/charlotte concord

Zootastic Park Troutman zootasticpark.com

DOWN ON THE FARM

Spend the day supporting the local farms that play an important role in our state’s economy and history. Here are some located in the Triangle.

1870 Farm

Chapel Hill

1870farm.com

Darby Acres Farm

Charlotte darbysafari.com

NORTH CAROLINA ZOO, ASHEBORO

PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTH CAROLINA ZOO

i FLY, CONCORD

PHOTO COU R TESY OF MELISSA WISTEHUFF

Hill Ridge Farms Youngsville hillridgefarms.com

Lavender Oaks Farm Chapel Hill lavenderoaks.farm

Naylor Family Farm Fuquay-Varina naylorfamilyfarm.com

Old Mill Farm Durham oldmillfarmdurham.com

THE BEACHES

Phillips Farm Cary

phillipsfarmsofcary.com

Providence Farm

McLeansville providencefarmnc.com

Sweet Valley Ranch

Fayetteville sweetvalleyranchnc.com

North Carolina’s coast claims more than 300 miles of unique and beautiful beaches that repeatedly land on “world’s best” lists. One visit to any of North Carolina’s seaside towns and you’ll quickly see why.

SEA FESTS

From fireworks to mermaids, these coastal festivals entice beach crowds out of the waves and into festival fun.

MORE FUN IN THE SUN Festivals are listed in order of date.

North Carolina Azalea Festival

Wilmington

April 3–7, 2024 ncazaleafestival.org

North Carolina 4th of July Festival Southport

July 4, 2024

nc4thofjuly.com

Outer Banks

Watermelon Festival Nags Head

August 1, 2024

kittyhawk.com/event/outer banks watermelon festival

Ocracoke Fig Festival Ocracoke

August 2–3, 2024 ocracokepreservationsociety. org/figfestival

Outer Banks Kite Festival Nags Head

September 13–14, 2024 kittyhawk.com/event/outer banks kite festival

The Beaufort Pirate Invasion Beaufort

September 20–22, 2024 beaufortpirateinvasion.com

The North Carolina Seafood Festival Morehead City

October 4–6, 2024 ncseafoodfestival.org

Swansboro Mullet Festival Swansboro

October 12–13, 2024 swansborofestivals.com/ mullet festival

MumFest

New Bern

October 12–13, 2024 mumfest.com

Holiday Flotilla Beaufort

December 7, 2024 beaufort nc.com/events.html

ONE FISH, TWO FISH

Experience North Carolina’s aquariums at Fort Fisher, Jennette’s Pier, Pine Knoll Shores and Roanoke Island ncaquariums.com

SAND AND SOIL

Who says the North Carolina coast is all about sand? These coastal farms are open to the public and rich in hearty soil that yields small grains, corn, potatoes and more.

The Farmer’s Barn

Chadbourn thefarmersbarn.net

Galloway Farm Hallsboro

gallowayfarmnc.com

Hubb’s Farm Clinton hubbsfarmnc.com

Island Farm Manteo obcinc.org/island farm

Mike’s Farm

Beulaville mikesfarmnc.com

Old McFaye’s Farm

Castle Hayne facebook.com/fayes.farm.ilm

CAPE LOOKOUT

PHOTO COU R TESY OF MELISSA WISTEHUFF

NC MARITIME MUSEUM, BEAUFORT

PHOTO COURTESY OF MELISSA WISTEHUFF

MAKE TIME TO PLAY

North Carolina is akin to a well designed playground. It has differing levels of adventure to match each individual’s pleasures: endless greenspace, dense forests, sandy beaches and watering holes in which to roam, with boundless seasonally changing colors to admire while exploring. Our state is simply the perfect place to unleash your inner child.

THE MOUNTAINS

From skiing and hiking to whitewater rafting, there is no end to fun in the scenic North Carolina mountains. As Scottish American naturalist, preservationist and author John Muir once said, “The mountains are calling, and I must go.”

Land of Oz’s Autumn at Oz Festival

Beech Mountain September 2024 landofoznc.com

L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” comes to life on Beech Mountain each autumn in the land of Oz—mercifully minus the flying monkeys and falling houses. Follow the yellow brick road through the Land of Oz to meet Dorothy and the gang on your way to the Emerald City.

THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR WALKING

The best views come after the most challenging climbs. These western North Carolina day hikes offer moments of respite as well as challenging heights. Learn more about these trails at alltrails.com and ncparks.gov.

• Art Loeb Trail – Brevard

• Boone Fork Trail – Boone

• Graveyard Fields Loop Trail –Brevard

• Hawksbill Mountain Trail –Linville Gorge Wilderness

• Lower Cascade Falls Trail –Hanging Rock State Park

• Mount Mitchell Trail –Mount Mitchell State Park

• Paradise Falls Trail – Tuckasegee

• Profile Trail – Grandfather Mountain State Park

• Rainbow Falls Trail –Gorges State Park

• Stone Mountain Loop Trail –Stone Mountain State Park

• Tanawha Trail –Blue Ridge Parkway

• Triple Falls Trail – Hendersonville

THRILL-SEEKING SITES AND FEATS

Get your adrenaline rush at these western North Carolina destinations.

Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline

Seven Devils hawksnestzipline.com

High Gravity Adventures Blowing Rock highgravityadventures.com

Nantahala Outdoor Center Bryson City noc.com

The Gorge Zipline Saluda thegorgezipline.com

Rocky Face Mountain Recreational Area Hiddenite rockyfacepark.com

Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster Banner Elk wildernessrunalpinecoaster.com

SLOW THE PACE

These adventures create equal thrills at a more measured pace, while offering a change of scenery and plenty of fresh mountain air.

Grandfather Mountain Linville grandfather.com

North Carolina Waterfalls Asheville and surrounding mountains

romanticasheville.com/ waterfalls

RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls Woodleaf cooleemee.org/riverpark

Smokemont Riding Stable Cherokee

smokemontridingstable.com

Southern Appalachian Anglers Asheville

southernappalachiananglers.com

Tail of the Dragon Deals Gap tailofthedragon.com

THE PIEDMONT

Tweetsie Railroad Blowing Rock tweetsie.com

Love Valley Statesville lovevalley.com

The Piedmont region is home to the state’s biggest cities, complete with sports teams, state and local parks and playgrounds, and family friendly pastimes within a short drive.

A WALK IN THE WOODS

There are countless places in the Piedmont best seen on foot. Grab your water bottle, unplug and take a walk. Learn more about each of these trails at alltrails.com.

Broad River Greenway

Highlight: Cross over the river on a 120 foot suspension bridge.

Best place to park: 126 Broad River Drive, Shelby

Carter Falls Trail

Highlight: Start your journey at Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery near Elkin, which connects to Carter Falls Trail.

Best place to park: Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery, 235 Chatham Cottage Lane, State Road

Clemmons Educational

State Forest

Highlight: The Talking Tree trail will entertain and educate nature lovers.

Best place to park: 2411 Old U.S. Hwy 70 West, Clayton

Duke Forest

Highlight: The trail is part of Duke University’s 7,000 acre living laboratory and outdoor classroom.

Best place to park: At trailheads along N.C. Hwy 751, Durham

Eno River State Park

Highlight: Bring your water shoes and play in the river to cool off on a hot day.

Best place to park: Fews Ford, 6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham

Uwharrie National Forest

Highlight: These woods offer more than just a gorgeous hike. Enjoy off roading, four wheeling, horseback riding and mountain biking on the forest’s many trails.

Best place to park: Eldorado

Outpost, 4021 N.C. Hwy 109, Troy

Weymouth Woods Sandhills

Nature Preserve

Highlight: Search for the oldest known living longleaf pine tree.

Best place to park: Visitor’s Center, 1024 N. Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines

William B. Umstead State

Park’s Sycamore Trail

Highlight: Follow the Graylyn Trail for a photo op with a beautifully carved oak tree depicting woodland animals.

Best place to park: Crabtree Creek Entrance, 8801 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh

Historic Occoneechee

Speedway Trail

Hillsborough

This 1 mile trail is the only surviving dirt speedway from NASCAR’s inaugural 1949 season. Hidden in the woods along the Eno River, the Occoneechee Speedway served as one of the crown jewels for stock car drivers for two decades. Now a peaceful place to walk, the track harkens back to NASCAR’s glory days, which featured drivers such as Richard Petty, Fireball Roberts and Fonty Flock. The track’s grandstands and concession stands remain, and the oval has been adorned with a handful of restored stock cars.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE BEST SUMMER EVER?

Family vacation just got even better! Give your kids the summer experience of a lifetime. Parents take a break from the daily hustle and bustle and enjoy the beach! Join MarineQuest for a summer of fun, sun and something for everyone.

An

THE MORE THE MERRY-GO-ROUND

Pullen Park

Raleigh raleighnc.gov/parks/places/ pullen park

Pullen Park is North Carolina’s first public park and the fifth oldest operating amusement park in the country. Pullen Park offers pedal boats, train rides, swings, open fields for picnicking and an indoor aquatic center, but the real showstopper is its historic Dentzel carousel, which opened to riders in 1921.

HIGH-FLYING FUN AND SPLASH ZONES

Be a kid for the day at the Piedmont’s theme and water parks.

Carowinds and Carolina Harbor at Carowinds Charlotte carowinds.com

Carrigan Farms Mooresville carriganfarms.com

Dan Nicholas Park Salisbury rowancountync.gov/185/

Dan Nicholas Park

Frankie’s Charlotte and Raleigh frankies.com

Great Wolf Lodge Concord greatwolflodge.com

iFly

Concord iflyworld.com

Sun Crest Water Park Taylorsville suncrestwaterpark.net

U.S. National Whitewater Center Charlotte whitewater.org

Wet‘n Wild Emerald Pointe Greensboro emeraldpointe.com

START YOUR ENGINES

North Carolina is the undisputed home of NASCAR, and with that label comes an uncontrollable need for speed. Luckily, the Piedmont is jampacked with racing venues, making it easy to burn rubber—or cheer on our favorite drivers from the grandstands.

Charlotte Motor Speedway

Concord charlottemotorspeedway.com

NASCAR is the No. 1 spectator sport in America, and 17 of the top 20 most attended sporting events in the U.S. are NASCAR races, according to Forbes.

Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord is considered one of the busiest sports venues in the country, hosting nearly 400 events each year. The penultimate event at Charlotte Motor Speedway, however, is the Coca Cola 600, held each Memorial Day weekend. Home of the first and only 600 mile event, and story holder of 60 years of illustrious history, this event has helped dub Charlotte Motor Speedway “America’s Home for Racing.”

MORE PIT STOPS

Busco Beach Goldsboro buscobeach.com

Trackhouse Motorplex Mooresville gopromotorplex.com

Richard Petty Driving Experience

Concord drivepetty.com

Rockingham Dragway Rockingham rockinghamdragway.com

Rush Hour Karting Garner and Morrisville rhkfun.com

Wake County Speedway Raleigh wcspeedway.com

GOT GAME?

The Tobacco Road rivalry among ACC teams may make headline news, but North Carolina gets a slam dunk for hosting great professional sports teams as well. Major League Soccer and National Women’s Soccer League

Charlotte FC, North Carolina Courage and North Carolina FC

National Basketball League

Charlotte Hornets

National Football League

Carolina Panthers

National Hockey League

Carolina Hurricanes

LET’S PLAY BALL

We may not have a major league baseball team in North Carolina, but we do host quite a few minor league franchises, each with all the bells and

THE COAST

whistles of a major league ballpark experience—including hot dogs, peanuts and fireworks. Visit milb.com to find out more about these teams.

• Asheville Tourists

• Burlington Sock Puppets

• Durham Bulls

• Carolina Mudcats

• Charlotte Knights

• Down East Wood Ducks

• Fayetteville Woodpeckers

• Gastonia Honey Hunters

• Greensboro Grasshoppers

• Hickory Crawdads

• Holly Springs Salamanders

• Kannapolis Cannon Ballers

• Wilmington Sharks

• Winston Salem Dash

When at the beach, the world is your oyster! Native North Carolinians generally have a favorite beach to which they return each year. Mix things up by arranging a playdate at one of these coastal attractions.

ARRGH WE THERE YET?

The North Carolina coast offers endless options for recreational activities.

Beaufort Pirates Revenge Beaufort beaufortpiratesrevenge.com

Cape Lookout National Seashore Harkers Island nps.gov/calo islandexpressferryservices.com

H2OBX Waterpark

Powells Point h2obxwaterpark.com

Jockey’s Ridge State Park Nags Head ncparks.gov

Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park Wilmington junglerapids.com

Kitty Hawk Kites Hang Gliding Training Center Nags Head kittyhawk.com

Lions Water Adventure Kinston lionswateradventure.com

Ride the Wind Surf & Kayak Ocracoke surfocracoke.com

The Salty Pirate Water Park Emerald Isle saltypiratewaterpark.com

WB Surf Camp Wrightsville Beach wbsurfcamp.com

INSPIRING SIGHTS TO SEE

It’s time to unplug and take a look around this magnificent state. Feast your eyes on North Carolina’s most beautiful and unique attractions. Mount Mitchell, for example, boasts the highest point east of the Mississippi River.

THE MOUNTAINS

From waterfalls and gardens to castles and outdoor plays, you’ll see something at every turn in the mountains, where jaw dropping wilderness and scenic views abound.

ELEVATED SENSES

The best place to take in awe inspiring views is from up high, atop a North Carolina mountain—or on the back of a motorcycle.

Cherohala Skyway Robbinsville cherohala.com

Hot Springs hotspringsnc.org

Lynn Cove Viaduct blueridgeparkway.org/poi/ linn cove viaduct

Wild Dam Waterfall Loop Sapphire blueridgemotorcycling.com

Wiseman’s View Scenic Overlook Linville Gorge fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/ recarea/?recid=49002

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX (OFFICE)

Soak up western North Carolina’s history and culture by watching these famous outdoor plays.

“Horn in the West” Boone horninthewest.com

Watch the story of frontiersman Daniel Boone and other mountain settlers from North Carolina’s 18th century high country as they explore life before and during the Revolutionary War.

“Unto These Hills” Cherokee cherokeehistorical.org

Since its debut in 1950, this outdoor Mountainside Theater

performance tells the tale of Cherokee struggles and triumph from 1780 until the 21st century.

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

Deeply rooted in history and culture, western North Carolina is home to attractions and museums that tell the story of the hills.

Elijah Mountain Gem Mine Hendersonville elijahmountain.com PARI Rosman pari.edu

Linville Caverns Marion linvillecaverns.com

Museum of the Cherokee People Cherokee mci.org

Oconaluftee Indian Village Cherokee cherokeehistorical.org/ oconaluftee indian village

Wheels Through Time Maggie Valley wheelsthroughtime.com

ALL ABOARD!

One of the best ways to see North Carolina is by train, and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad gives you an up close look at some of our state’s most remote areas. It covers more than 53 miles—over the Nantahala River Gorge and along the Tuckasegee River, crossing 25 bridges over valleys, through tunnels and by majestic lakes. gsmr.com

THE PIEDMONT

With an eclectic mix of unique towns to explore throughout the Piedmont region of our state, there is something interesting to see around every turn and atop many urban rooftops.

NATIONAL TREASURES

From art galleries and science studies to history and racing, the Piedmont accommodates a treasure trove of museums.

The Andy Griffith Museum Mount Airy andygriffithmuseum.com

The Billy Graham Library

Charlotte billygrahamlibrary.org

Discovery Place

Charlotte discoveryplace.org

Greensboro Science Center

Greensboro greensboroscience.org

WISEMAN’S VIEW SCENIC OVERLOOK, LINVILLE GORGE

PHOTO BY CHANSAK JOE A. STOCK.ADOBE.COM

International Civil Rights Center & Museum Greensboro sitinmovement.org

Marbles Kids Museum Raleigh marbleskidsmuseum.org

The Mint Museum Charlotte mintmuseum.org

Morehead Planetarium & Science Center Chapel Hill moreheadplanetarium.org

Museum of Life and Science Durham lifeandscience.org

NASCAR Hall of Fame Charlotte nascarhall.com

THE COAST

New Hope Valley Railway New Hill triangletrain.com

North Carolina Museum of Art Raleigh ncartmuseum.org

North Carolina Museum of History

Raleigh ncmuseumofhistory.org

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Raleigh naturalsciences.org

North Carolina Transportation Museum Spencer nctransportationmuseum.org

North Carolina boasts an entire coastline of pristine dunes, wide beaches and crashing waves.

GUIDING LIGHTS

North Carolina showcases seven coastal lighthouses along its shores. Though originally intended to guide adventurers away from treacherous shorelines, the lighthouses now welcome visitors who seek incredible views from their tops.

• Bodie Island Lighthouse Nags Head

• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Buxton

• Cape Lookout Lighthouse Harkers Island

• Currituck Beach Lighthouse

Corolla

• Oak Island Lighthouse Oak Island

• Ocracoke Lighthouse Ocracoke

• Old Baldy Lighthouse Bald Head Island

FORTS, FLEETS AND FLIGHTS

The North Carolina coast is home to a surplus of interesting battle sites, pirate stories and history making moments. Add these landmarks and monuments to your must see list.

Battleship North Carolina

Wilmington battleshipnc.com

Fort Fisher

Kure Beach historicsites.nc.gov/all sites/ fort fisher

Fort Macon Atlantic Beach ncparks.gov/fort macon state park/home

Wright Brothers National Memorial Manteo nps.gov/wrbr/index.htm

Landlubber Tours

Take a break from riding waves to enjoy a museum tour, ghost walk, garden stroll or coastal cruise.

Airlie Gardens

Wilmington airliegardens.org

Beaufort Ghost Walk Beaufort pctourco.com/beaufort ghost walk

New Bern Firemen’s Museum

New Bern newbernfiremuseum.com

North Carolina Maritime Museum Beaufort

ncmaritimemuseumbeaufort.com

The Old Jail Beaufort

beauforthistoricsite.org/ buildings grounds

Wilmington Water Tours

Wilmington wilmingtonwatertours.net

America’s Oldest Mystery “The Lost Colony” Manteo thelostcolony.org

Set on Roanoke Island’s soundfront, “The Lost Colony” has been entertaining audiences for 85 years with the tale of the first English settlers to arrive on North Carolina’s coast. The play also seeks to answer questions to the country’s oldest mystery: What happened to the lost colony?

AIRLIE GARDENS, WILMINGTON

PHOTO BY ZIMMYTWS STOCK.ADOBE.COM

NASCAR HALL OF FAME, CHARLOTTE

PHOTO BY ZIMMYTWS STOCK.ADOBE.COM

DON’T

MISS THESE

ACROSS THE REGION 12 TREASURES

BY ELIZABETH BRIGNAC

Tr iangle families have a lot of ground to cover as they explore this exceptional region of North Carolina. A conservative estimate of the Triangle area covers four counties, 13 cities and large towns, and dozens of smaller towns, each of which has a unique history. From the Riverwalk in Hillsborough to the historic mineral springs in Fuquay-Varina, natural, cultural and intellectual opportunities throughout the Triangle are available to anyone ready to discover them .

Here’s a list of 12 places to check out. Each is unique in some way to the Triangle, and offers an exceptionally rich local experience.

AMERICAN TOBACCO TRAIL wakegov.com

For years, the railroad line that is now used by New Hope Valley Railway transported tobacco products to and from the American Tobacco Company’s Durham processing plant. When the factory closed in 1987, the rail line was abandoned, leaving a level, cleared path that stretched for miles. The Triangle Rails to Trails Conservancy formed in 1989 to advocate for turning the defunct railroad line into a greenway. Their efforts were so successful that the governments of Durham, Chatham and Wake counties collaborated in creating the American Tobacco Trail, which stretches for 22 miles, from downtown Durham into Apex, and connects 70 miles’ worth of other trails and greenways. Today, walkers, runners, bikers and equestrians use the trail for exercise and day-to-day transportation.

Photo courtesy of Ted Richardson/VisitRaleigh.com

3

DENTZEL CAROUSEL

raleighnc.gov/parks/pullen-park-amusements

Families with children should make a point of visiting historic Pullen Park and riding its whimsical carousel. Pullen Park, which opened in 1887, was North Carolina’s first public park. Its iconic carousel was designed by Gustav Dentzel, one of the first carousel makers in the U.S., around 1900. The carousel opened in Pullen Park in 1921. It features 52 hand-carved wooden animals including ostriches, rabbits, tigers, horses and other creatures. The carousel was restored in the 1970s using the artists’ original paint colors so, today, it looks much like it did when it first opened. The carousel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. For another dose of historical fun, try the park’s C.P. Huntington train, a 1950 miniaturized replica of a famous 1863 locomotive.

DOWNTOWN CARY PARK downtowncarypark.com

Cary’s new downtown park packs in the fun. The Nest, a playground centered around two large cardinal-themed play structures, offers excitement for all ages and a large splash pad provides a fun way to cool off during hot days. Carts stationed around the park provide board games, paddles and balls for a table games area, and books for readers from preschool age through adulthood. Two large fields offer space for running games and for throwing balls and discs, while pathways and gardens centered around the park’s terraced water features beckon visitors to explore or relax in the shade. Market 317 is a grab-and-go café featuring delicious sandwiches, charcuterie boards and picnic food for visitors. The park also offers extensive family-friendly programming, including movie nights, concerts, fitness classes and more.

Photo by Josh Manning

Photo courtesy of Tzu Chen

SARAH P. DUKE GARDENS

gardens.duke.edu

4

Duke Gardens in spring is a sight to behold. Its 55 acres on Duke University’s campus burst into bloom, from crafted beds of tulips, daffodils and irises in its historic, terraced gardens, to the trees in the Asiatic Arboretum, festooned with redbuds, Japanese magnolia blossoms, camellias and the garden’s renowned cherry blossoms. Open 365 days a year, the garden is free to the public, has 600,000 annual visitors and offers rich botanical experiences every season. In addition to the terraced gardens and arboretum, Duke Gardens includes plants native to North Carolina, a discovery garden teaching visitors about plants and animals (kids love the chickens), a Japanese garden and many other beautiful spots. Visitors can also attend classes, buy plants, birdwatch and attend traditional Japanese tea ceremonies in the arboretum’s tea pavilion.

MARBLES KIDS MUSEUM marbleskidsmuseum.org

6 5

Since 2007, Marbles has been entertaining and educating children with its interactive exhibits. Located near Moore Square in downtown Raleigh, Marbles offers something for everyone. Kids interested in the natural world can explore the River Playway, designed to teach about the Neuse River ecosystem; plant a pretend garden or explore a real one; and enjoy undersea adventures in the USS Science Sub and Under the Waves exhibits. Sports enthusiasts can play hockey in their socks, work out on play gym equipment and throw basketballs in the Power 2 Play exhibit. Young creators can design cars, create with wood, build massive Lego structures and animate their artwork in the imagiFAB exhibit. Preschoolers can be firefighters, news reporters, chefs and farmers in the Around Town exhibit, while their younger siblings can explore at their own pace in Toddlers Hollow.

ENO RIVER STATE PARK ncparks.gov/eno-river-state-park/home

The Eno River State Park in Durham offers some of the Triangle’s best opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration. Community protection has kept the beautiful Eno River at the heart of the park clean. Families with children might enjoy Few’s Ford, a picnic area close to parking with shallow wading spots and easy nearby trails. Experienced swimmers may prefer scenic Bobbitt Hole, where a small cascade empties into a deep swimming hole. Fishing and camping are also popular activities at the park. Hikers can access 28 miles of trails, including Buckwater Creek Trail, which overlooks some of the park’s most impressive rapids; and the Pump Station Trail, home to the park’s best spring wildflowers and the ruins of the old Durham pump station. Several trails include the remains of gristmills once built along the Eno.

Photo courtesy of Discover Durham

Photo courtesy of Jenny Midgley

Photo courtesy of Marbles Kids Museum

8

NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART ncartmuseum.org

The North Carolina Museum of Art offers free access to excellent permanent art exhibits and a 164-acre outdoor park and sculpture gardens open for public use. The permanent collection includes major holdings in European paintings, Egyptian funerary art, ancient Greek and Roman sculptures and vase paintings, international contemporary art, and one of only two permanent displays of Jewish art in an American art museum. The museum also hosts a diverse variety of temporary exhibits and a museum store featuring a selection of local artisanal merchandise.

HEMLOCK BLUFFS NATURE PRESERVE townofcary.org

(search for “Hemlock Bluffs”)

If you enjoy western North Carolina, visit Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary, home to an isolated grouping of mountain hemlock trees and other natural elements usually found in the mountains. A remnant of a time when the earth was cooler and hemlocks covered the Piedmont, these trees have been protected by the shady bluffs that give the preserve its name, allowing them to survive for thousands of years. Today, they provide a pleasant retreat filled with local wildlife. The Stevens Nature Center educates visitors, and residents can take classes and go on guided hikes through the preserve.

Photo courtesy of North Carolina Museum of Art

Photo by Jenny Midgley

MUSEUM OF LIFE AND SCIENCE lifeandscience.org

The Museum of Life and Science has been open for 78 years. Today, its 84-acre campus offers one of the richest family experiences in the state, including one of the biggest butterfly conservatories on the East Coast. The indoor science center includes an aerospace exhibit filled with Apollo-era artifacts and space-related interactive exhibits, a tinkering center where kids can build contraptions, a weather center that offers an opportunity to build a mini-tornado and more. Outdoors, visitors can explore “Hideaway Woods,” a massive treehouse exhibit with a stream for hot-weather play; a zoo housing North Carolina animals; a dinosaur trail, complete with the opportunity to dig for fossils; “Into the Mist,” a complex array of sandy spots, hills and tunnels shrouded in cool mist; “Earth Moves,” offering interactive geoscience play; and much more. The museum charges for admission, but twice a month, Durham Community Days allow Durham residents to visit for free.

Photo courtesy of Museum of Life and Science

NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCES naturalsciences.org

The City of Oaks’ free museums have earned Raleigh the moniker of “the Smithsonian of the South” and are a major perk of living in the Triangle. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is one of them. Its original building is distinguished by the Daily Planet—an almost-planet-sized model of the earth which juts out from its side. Here you will also find the Nature Exploration Center with four floors of ecosystem exhibits and animals from across North Carolina, a hands-on discovery center, a dinosaur exhibit beloved by kids and parents alike, and much more. Walk across the enclosed pedestrian bridge to explore the Nature Research Center, with labs that guide visitors in hands-on experiments, a space exhibit, a butterfly house, an aquarium and a theater.

Photo by Jenny Midgley

Raleigh’s exceptional State Farmers Market offers a unique opportunity to enjoy North Carolina’s agricultural offerings. The huge, covered, open-air market is open seven days a week yearround. North Carolina farmers, bakers and craftspeople set up stands selling everything from cheese to Christmas trees. If it's grown in the Piedmont, you’ll find it here, especially on weekends. The market also contains shops specializing in North Carolina pork and seafood, and three restaurants offering different kinds of local cooking.

NORTH CAROLINA FREEDOM PARK

aahc.nc.gov/north-carolina-freedom-park

Freedom Park is the state’s first public park to honor the African American experience and struggle for liberation in North Carolina. Families can be inspired by Voices of Freedom, a series of inscribed quotations by African Americans who played an important role in North Carolina’s history. The Beacon of Freedom, a 45-foot statue located at the apex of the park’s many walkways, lights up at dusk to symbolize hope, resilience and self-determination. Located in downtown Raleigh near the North Carolina Executive Mansion, Freedom Park was designed by Durham architect Phil Freelon, who is most famous for designing the National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, D.C.

Photo by Jenny Midgley

Photo courtesy of Janice Lewine

LET’S HEAR IT FOR

HARPER

10-year-old cancer patient is the inspiration for others in need of housing—and then some

BY KURT DUSTERBERG

Harper Harrell is quick to proclaim her love for horses and dogs.

Each week, the 10-year-old goes horseback riding at Rosewood Farm in Mebane, where she rides Opie and Lovebug. Those outings have taught her that horses are “a little cuckoo—but that’s OK. Some horses just need some love and shaping.”

And then there’s Jimmy Page, her 3-year-old international rescue golden retriever. When the topic turns to Jimmy, Harper announces with a mix of charm and sincerity, “He’s so cute, and the sweetest little chunky puppy ever.”

But her animal buddies are more than just amusing companions “My theory is that horses and dogs healed me,” she says.

Harper’s mother, Heather Hindin, vividly remembers the moments surrounding her daughter’s leukemia diagnosis in 2021. Upon returning to in-school instruction after the pandemic, Harper had begun experiencing headaches and fatigue. Heather thought it might be something more serious, and ordered bloodwork. Mother and daughter were together when doctors shared the news.

“I remember she was sitting in my lap, so she wasn’t facing me,” Heather says. “And the doctors and the nurse practitioner who delivered the diagnosis were incredibly professional and kind. And I remember crying behind her, but she couldn’t see because she wasn’t facing me.”

Today, Harper is celebrating her return to full health after her final procedure in November. Her treatment involved chemotherapy and long stays at Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center in Durham, along with emotions and fears that only an 8-year-old patient can understand.

“I’m the person who my friends talk to,” Harper says. “They can come to me. There have been kids in treatment, and I’ve been there for them. But there have been many changes. My hair is curly, but it used to be pin-straight. And some of my personality has also changed.”

Harper pauses and her smile fades, a clear break from her sunny optimism. She gathers her poise and continues with purpose.

“I get scared by a lot more things now, a lot easier from the experiences I’ve had. I used to not be anxious about really anything, but everything kind of scares me that sounds scary. That’s really all that’s changed.”

One of the first calls Heather received after the diagnosis came from Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski. Heather had worked more than a decade as a program director at the Emily Krzyzewski Center, the educational nonprofit named after the coach’s mother. Harper had spent many an hour under her mother’s desk. “He called me the first morning at the hospital, and I remember sobbing to him.”

HARPER’S HOME

That was one of the connections that started Heather and her daughter on a path to something more hopeful. Harper saw families at the hospital wearing T-shirts in support of family members battling illnesses. Soon she designed her own shirt with the phrase, “Peace Out, Cancer.” The fundraiser generated more than $27,000, a small portion of which helped defray her own miscellaneous medical expenses. But the majority was donated for cancer research at the V Foundation, the legacy organization of former N.C. State University basketball coach Jim Valvano, who died of cancer in 1993.

It didn’t take long to recognize other blessings within their situation. After each long day of treatment, Heather and Harper

felt fortunate they could return to their home just two miles away. Many other patients and their families came from across the country, facing tremendous costs for housing and other obstacles. Those difficult circumstances led Heather to establish Harper’s Home, a nonprofit that will one day provide affordable short-term housing for families with a child in treatment at Duke Children’s Hospital.

“The Ronald McDonald House is an incredible asset, and one that we are very supportive of, but these folks wanted to have extended family and bring their pets,” Heather says. “They wanted to know they would have the same place for the duration of their stay.

Serendipitously, I bought a piece of property that is 1.9 miles from Duke. It’s an acre, and we have a huge wooded lot in the back. We’re raising money to build cottages and duplexes on our property to house families for kids in treatment at Duke.”

The project will require nearly $1 million to build eight housing units. But it is a perfect fundraising challenge for Heather and Harper.

“We can make a difference. We can help, and we really want to,” Heather says. “The reason Harper is alive and thriving right now is because of people like the Valvanos and Coach K and [college basketball commentator] Dick Vitale, who use their

PAGE 26, TOP: Harper stands proudly with her mother, Heather Hindin.

PAGE 27, BOTTOM: Harper and Heather pose with former Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski.

PAGE 28, TOP: A dedicated team at Duke Children's Hospital & Health Center has cared for Harper since 2021.

PAGE 28, BOTTOM: Community members offer Harper support and encouragement.

PAGE 29, TOP: Harper cuddles with Jimmy Page, her golden retriever.

PAGE 29, BOTTOM: Harper celebrated her return to full health after her final procedure in November.

Photos courtesy of Coyne PR

privilege and their celebrity to make sure that really good things happen for people who need to be supported and spoken for.”

These days, Harper is back to her normal day-to-day routine. She enjoys her time at E.K. Powe Elementary School in Durham, where she likes playing soccer and football at recess. Even as a 10-year-old, she ponders what kind of career she might enjoy as an adult. “I think I want to be a nurse of some sort, or I want to be a veterinarian because I love horses and dogs and cats and all animals,” she says.

Talking about her four-legged friends brings Harper back to a world she knows too well.

“They do have animal therapy at the hospital, and I feel like that helps so many people,” she says. “That’s another reason we want dogs to be able to come to Harper’s Home and have people experience their animals. I feel like Jimmy is my magical dog. Every time I stare at him when I don’t feel good, he looks at me and it seems like he’s trying to tell me, ‘Harper, I hope you feel better.’”

Seeing Harper return to a healthy life is a relief for Heather, who lives with the awareness of everything they have been through in the past three years. So their story won’t be complete until a debt of gratitude is paid.

“Somehow we need to pay back all of the people who have taken such good care of us with meals and cards and prayers and love,” Heather says. “We’re going to have a giant celebration.”

For more information on Harper’s Home, visit harpershomenc.org. For more information on the V Foundation, visit v.org.

EXPLORING the Family-Friendly Wonders of the North Carolina Zoo

BY JENNIFER PRIMROSE PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ZOO

The North Carolina Zoo, located in the heart of North Carolina, is a family destination covering 2,600 acres of lush greenery. It is not just a zoo, but an immersive experience that offers exciting excursions for families of all ages.

With over 1,800 animals worldwide, the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is a captivating combination of education, conservation and entertainment.

Every exhibit and attraction is designed

with a deep commitment to wildlife welfare, replicating each species’ natural habitats and providing visitors with an unforgettable and informative experience. Visitors can observe majestic elephants, tigers, lions, playful chimpanzees and the critically endangered red wolf. It is a place where guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the animal kingdom.

As visitors journey through diverse continents and habitats, interactive animal exhibits engage and educate families.

The facility is designed with the youngest visitors in mind, offering kid-friendly attractions that provide not only hands-on experiences and educational games, but also opportunities to delve into the world of animal behaviors in a fun and exciting manner. It’s not just a zoo; it’s a place where the adventure of learning about animal behaviors becomes an exciting journey for visitors of all ages.

The Kidzone is a popular attraction among children where they can enjoy

nature, play and explore the outdoors. The Stream splash and play activity is one of the most popular activities within Kidzone, where children can jump and splash in a refreshing natural stream. Parents are encouraged to bring rain boots or water sandals; swim diapers are recommended for little ones still in diapers. The commitment to outdoor play continues with Fort Making in the woods and a visit to the Mud Café, which provides a unique “dining” experience.

The Kidzone is dedicated to educating visitors about animals, their habitats and ways to contribute to wildlife conservation. The educational programs are interactive and designed to engage and entertain children of all ages. These programs may be affected by weather conditions or staff availability.

For a supplementary charge of $3 from April to October, guests can enrich their visit by exploring the Treehouse Trek in the Africa section of the zoo. This unique

adventure accommodates guests of all abilities, offering straightforward and accessible enjoyment around treehouses, rope bridges and an oversized play nest. A section of the play area is ADA accessible, guaranteeing an inclusive experience for everyone to enjoy.

The North Carolina Zoo is also sensoryfriendly for visitors. Certain days are reserved as Quiet Days to cater to the diverse needs of visitors, when the zoo makes an effort to reduce overwhelming

stimuli by turning off loud music and messaging. Visitors can check out sensory bags, and designated quiet areas are marked throughout the zoo to ensure a more comfortable experience for families with sensory sensitivities.

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the North Carolina Zoo has introduced exciting summer camps that cater to different age groups. These camps explore various themes—including art, technology, conservation and science— that provide unique and educational experiences that immerse the participants in the wonders of wildlife and the

environment. For young science enthusiasts, the Wild Animal Science Camps offer hands-on experiences simulating fieldwork conducted by conservation scientists. These camps provide a rare insight into wildlife research and conservation efforts, creating memories while fostering a love for science and the natural world.

“This golden anniversary is a time to celebrate and honor the people and partners who have made the North Carolina Zoo what it is today. We are especially grateful to the guests and donors who have supported us over the years, and

the animals that have inspired us,” says Director and CEO Patricia Simmons. “We hope you will join us in celebrating 50 wild years by visiting, reminiscing and making new memories in 2024.”

For families looking for a truly unforgettable experience, the zoo offers Family Snorin’ Safaris. This popular overnight camping adventure, designed for adults with children ages 6–18 years, allows visitors to spend the night in the zoo, immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of the animals through activities and evening strolls. Also, new for

2024, the zoo will offer sensory-friendly Snorin’ Safaris.

The North Carolina Zoo emerges as a haven for families seeking the perfect blend of wildlife exploration and engaging activities for children. With a focus on nature play, educational programs and thoughtful facilities, the zoo promises an unforgettable experience that nurtures a love for wildlife and the environment.

Practical amenities such as diaper changing stations, family restrooms and private nursing areas make the visit seamless for families with young children. These thoughtful facilities

PAGES 30-31: The North Carolina Zoo is home to more than 1,800 animals, including elk and American bison.

ON LEFT: Underwater viewing allows guests to get close to amazing animals, such as these playful sea lions in the Rocky Coast exhibit.

BELOW, TOP TO BOTTOM: Alligators, ocelots and elephants are housed in natural habitats throughout the zoo’s 2,600 acres.

create a family-friendly atmosphere, allowing parents to focus on enjoying the day with their children.

“The North Carolina Zoo is a cherished, family-friendly destination that allows guests to connect with the natural world in unforgettable ways. Every visit to the zoo helps save wildlife and wild places, and serves as an opportunity for children and adults to play, explore and learn in a sprawling outdoor environment,” says Diane Villa, director of communications and marketing.

“Beginning in May, guests can venture out on the grasslands for a Zoofari adventure, feed a giraffe, take an air hike, experience the magical Kaleidoscope Butterfly Garden, join a camp, attend the Canine Champions for Conservation agility challenge, and so much more! There is always something to see or do at the world’s largest natural habitat zoo.”

“The Endangered Species Carousel is the most popular with young children, and kids of all ages enjoy the butterfly garden and Acacia Station Giraffe Deck. These experiences get our guests face-to-face with the animals—making lifetime memories. We often see children playing for hours in Kidzone; activities include the mud café, a play stream, stick building, tree-top trails, a maze, and exploring a wildlife attraction pond,” Villa says.

A day at the zoo is not just a visit; it’s a journey into the wonders of the natural world, creating lasting impressions for families to treasure. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare for roaring adventures at the North Carolina Zoo.

Everyone enjoys the thrill of an egg hunt, and there’s plenty of fun in store across the Triangle this month. Remember that egg hunts begin and end in a flash, so be sure to arrive early with your Easter basket. Events listed below are organized by date and town, and are free unless otherwise noted. Be sure to check the websites for these events before you head out to ensure they are still taking place.

MARCH 21

APEX

Children ages 5–17 with disabilities can search for candy-filled eggs with a flashlight at 8:15 p.m. at Apex Community Park. Registration is required online; use code 14447.

2200 Laura Duncan Road, Apex apexnc.org

MARCH 23

CARY

Kids ages 3–12 can search for eggs at WakeMed Soccer Park at the Town of Cary’s Hippity Hoppity Easter Egg Hunt. Registration is required, and each child must register on RecTrac; choose activity #EVEN0009-001. Gates open at 9:15 a.m. for check-in.

101 Soccer Park Drive, Cary carync.gov

CHAPEL HILL/CARRBORO

Hank Anderson Park welcomes kids ages 2–10 for the Carrboro Community Egg Hunt Celebration from noon–2 p.m., featuring a giant egg hunt for three age groups.

302 NC Hwy. 54 West, Chapel Hill carrbororec.org

DURHAM

Children can search for eggs at 10:15 a.m., including a gold one that brings an extra prize, at Campus Hills Park.

2000 S. Alston Avenue, Durham dprplaymore.org

West Point on the Eno’s 37th annual egg hunt starts at 10:15 a.m., with games and crafts afterward. A golden egg brings an extra prize.

5101 N. Roxboro Street, Durham dprplaymore.org

Triangle Egg Hunts and Spring Fun

BY JANICE LEWINE

FUQUAY-VARINA

Meet the Easter Bunny at Fleming Loop Park and search for eggs beginning at 10 a.m. Children will be divided by age groups on three separate fields. Enjoy the Downtown Candy Hop after the hunt and fill a basket with treats from participating merchants.

503 Fleming Loop Road, Fuquay-Varina fuquay-varina.org/793/easter-events

GARNER

The town’s Spring Eggstravaganza features games, crafts, music and food trucks from 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Lake Benson Park. Three egg hunts are scheduled for children in four age groups: 10:30 a.m. for ages birth–3; 11 a.m. for ages 4–5; 11:30 a.m. for ages 6–8; and noon for ages 9–12.

921 Buffaloe Road, Garner garnernc.gov

HOLLY SPRINGS

Children ages 8 and younger can enjoy a morning of games, inflatables, Easter Bunny meet-and-greets and an egg hunt on Ting Stadium’s Dick Sears Field at the town’s Spring Fling. The event takes place from 10 a.m.–noon.

101 Sportsmanship Way, Holly Springs hollyspringsnc.gov/343/festivals-events

HILLSBOROUGH

The town’s annual egg hunt on the sports field at the Central Recreation Center features crafts, visits with the Easter Bunny, inflatables and more. Registration is required for all household members who plan to attend; $10 per household.

Three egg hunts are scheduled for children in four age groups: 11:45 a.m. for ages birth–4; 12:15 p.m. for ages 5–8; and 12:45 p.m. for ages 9–11.

302 W. Tryon Street, Hillsborough orangecountync.gov/870/egg-hunt

RALEIGH

Meet the Easter Bunny at the HippityHoppity Egg Hunt from 10 a.m.–noon at Laurel Hills Community Center, featuring games, crafts, a selfie station and two egg hunts—one for kids and one for grown-ups.

3800 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh raleighnc.gov

WAKE FOREST

This year’s Easter Eggstravaganza at 11:30 a.m. at E. Carroll Joyner Park includes 15,000 eggs, music, activities and a visit from the Easter Bunny.

701 Harris Road, Wake Forest wakeforestnc.gov

MARCH 28

MORRISVILLE

Find the hidden Peeps and win a prize at Peeps in the Park at Morrisville Community Park from 5–7 p.m. Games and food trucks round out the event.

1520 Morrisville Parkway, Morrisville morrisvillenc.gov

MARCH 30

CARRBORO

Youth ages 11–14 are invited to take their flashlights and enjoy an egg hunt in the dark at Wilson Park. Search for golden eggs that contain special prizes. The hunt begins at 8:20 p.m.; arrive at 7:45 p.m. to register.

110 Williams Street, Carrboro carrbororec.org

APRIL 6

KNIGHTDALE

Knightdale Station Park hosts a Spring Fling Festival at noon showcasing live music, food trucks, inflatables and a vendor market. A modified Easter Egg Hunt features vendors distributing eggs at their booths.

810 N. First Avenue, Knightdale knightdalenc.gov/spring-fling-festival

BACKYARD TREASURES

Find crystals, gemstones, fossils and more—if you know where to look

BY ANITA B. STONE

If rocks and colorful stones fascinate you, you’re in luck.

North Carolina is blessed with a highly mineralized soil composition containing an abundance of colorful minerals, semiprecious stones and precious gems waiting to be found— sometimes in your own backyard. North Carolina is among the best rockhounding states in the country, where quality minerals aren’t hard to find—if you know where to look and what to look for.

Rockhounding is the recreational study and collection of rocks, gems, minerals and fossils from their natural environment. Crystals, gemstones, fossils and artifacts are there for anyone who wants to

search for them. They can be found lying in plain sight along roadsides, lurking in gravel pits and piles, resting in creeks or stream beds, and possibly in your backyard garden dirt. You need only take the time to explore.

THE MANY COLORS OF QUARTZ

Sometimes referred to as the most common mineral on earth, quartz is a plentiful backyard crystal that appears in many shapes and forms. Semiprecious varieties of quartz are used in lapidary projects, or simply put on shelves for display. Quartz can appear as a beautiful clear transparent crystal or include other minerals, which produces white,

grey, milky or pink coloring (pink quartz crystals are referred to as rose quartz). Quartz can also take the form of the beautiful purple crystal known as amethyst, which can be found across the state as well.

Quartz compacted in soil is referred to as chalcedony, a term that encompasses flint, onyx, jasper, agate and chert. All of these chalcedony quartz crystals can be of gemstone quality and feature multiple colors and astounding beauty. Agate can appear black, brown, yellow, red, green or white, depending on its mineral inclusions. Jasper, an equally colorful and prized quartz material, will not allow light to penetrate its surface. These stones

PHOTO COURTESY OF MVH/GETTY IMAGES

vary in color, are sometimes striped and are considered semiprecious gems.

Uncertain as to the validity of your quartz? Test its hardiness. If you’re unable to scratch your rock with a knife blade, it’s most likely some form of quartz. The value of any rock depends on its rarity, as well as current social demand. Value generally depends on the stone’s hardness, desirability and beauty.

Aside from quartz, North Carolina is home to many other fascinating rocks valued for their uniqueness, rarity, gem quality or history. Some, such as opals, pearls or fossils, are organic in origin, while others are composed of mineral combinations separate from quartz, such as rhyolite, staurolite, obsidian, garnets and mica. You can even find precious gems like emeralds, rubies and sapphires. Various mineral combinations within one rock can create beautiful stones, forming stunning additions to any rock collection.

ROCKHOUNDING TIPS

To start your search, travel no farther than your own backyard. Just ask Daniel Coleman, a rockhound veteran who is head of Emerald Hollow Mine in Hiddenite and digs in the dirt daily. “Rocks speak to me,” says Coleman, whose touring group, Digging with Daniel, helps rockhounds learn where and how to find crystals and gems in their backyards. “There might be treasure right under your feet. You have to know where to look.”

Coleman posts news about his group on Facebook (search for “Digging With Daniel”), as well as videos about how to recognize and hunt for gems and minerals. “It’s never-ending,” Coleman says. “Over the years I have found the equivalent of 30 tons of gems.”

Coleman suggests clues rockhounds can look for to spot where to dig for gems and minerals. “If you find mica, then it’s a good indication of the presence of quartz and gemstones,” he says. “Just keep digging.” But, he adds, if you rockhound on private property, be sure to “get permission from the owner before you bring your spade or shovel.”

Additional tips from Coleman and other local rockhounds include:

◆ Look for gems in nearby creeks and streams. Check the bottom silt and watch for flashes of color or light.

◆ Check road cuts and crumbling embankments where erosion is occurring.

◆ If you are safely—and legally—able to roam a construction site, they can also be good gem hunting locations.

◆ Invest in a good rockhounding book. Rockhounding often begins at home, whether in a backyard, hidden stream or eroding embankment. The excitement of finding your first gem or mineral ensures that once you begin the hunt, you will continue for many years to come.

GEM HUNTING SITES

These local and statewide mining sites and businesses offer guidance and a pretty good chance of discovering treasure.

Treasure Quest Mining, Apex treasurequestmining.com

Spring Haven Farm, Chapel Hill springhaven.farm

Blue Diamond Gemstone Panning, Cary bluediamondgemz.com

Anita Stone has been collecting rocks for more than 30 years. Additional sources for this story include the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, fellow rockhounders Stone is associated with and the following books:

◆ “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Minerals, Rocks & Fossils of the World” by John Farndon and Steve Parker

◆ “The Practical Geologist” by Dougal Dixon

◆ “National Geographic Pocket Guide to Rocks and Minerals of North America” by Sarah Garlick

◆ “National Audubon Society Field Guide to Fossils” by Ida Thompson.

Xtreme Park Adventures, Durham xtremeparkadventures.com

Emerald Hollow Mine, Hiddenite emeraldhollowmine.com

Reed Gold Mine, Midland historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/reed-gold-mine

Gem Mountain, Spruce Pine gemmountain.comw

Quartz compacted in soil is referred to as chalcedony. It can be of gemstone quality and feature multiple colors. PHOTO COURTESY OF URBAZON/GETTY IMAGES

CARVING OUT A NICHE

Apex

BY KURT DUSTERBERG

Ben Rose recently competed in the Cadet World Cup in Cabries, France, where he represented Team USA. Photo courtesy of Christina Rose Photography

Most children begin their athletic careers in a sport that is easy to understand. Kids who can run and kick a ball are a good fit for soccer, while others might enjoy an individual sport like swimming.

But other sports don’t have it so easy. Take fencing, for example. There are no professional leagues to follow, no rec leagues to join, and the rules and strategies are unclear to casual observers.

And yet, the sport is thriving at Apex Fencing Academy.

“People love swords,” says Igor Moreno, who owns the academy with his wife, Kriszti Hovanyi. “It’s the whole concept and fantasy around sword fighting, and the stories of chivalry and that kind of stuff.”

Moreno and Hovanyi are a natural fit for promoting their niche sport. Hovanyi grew up in a family of competitive fencers and represented Sweden internationally before attending Ohio State University on a fencing scholarship, where she was a two-time All-American. That’s where she met Moreno, a walk-on in the OSU fencing program.

The couple started the business 14 years ago, rounding up a few neighborhood kids and teaching them to fence in their bonus room. Soon they began teaching classes at Middle Creek Community Center in Apex, where word-of-mouth quickly built the program. Today, they have more than 230 students enrolled year-round.

“Initially, it’s pure fun because you pretty much play tag with a sword in your hand,” Hovanyi says. “Depending on where they take it, it becomes extremely competitive and intense and high-energy. You develop all the aspects of any elite athlete in any sport.”

Fencing involves a series of attacks and counterattacks, with points awarded for each touch. The sport has three disciplines: foil, epee and sabre. In foil, the target area is the torso, while epee targets the entire body. Both disciplines involve a thrusting weapon. The sabre is a swinging weapon that targets the entire body above the waist. Each of the disciplines has its own rules.

“It is a true combat sport, but there’s a lot of finesse and outwitting your opponent,” Moreno says. “It’s the

ABOVE: Apex Fencing Academy owner Igor Moreno teaches young fencers the intricacies of the sport. More than 230 students are enrolled at the academy. Photo courtesy of Christina Rose Photography

ABOVE: Fencing involves a series of attacks and counterattacks, with points awarded for each touch. The sport relies on a combination of physical and mental skills. Photo courtesy of Christina Rose Photography

ABOVE: Cardinal Gibbons High School senior Aiden Click recently took third place in the Under 20 category at the Division I North America Cup. Photo courtesy of Kimberly Jarema

complexity of being able to figure out your opponent while keeping your opponent from figuring you out. It’s kind of like a chess game. At the same time, you have to be able to perform.”

For Aiden Click, it’s all about solving his opponent. The Cardinal Gibbons High School senior recently took third place in the Under 20 category at the Division I North America Cup.

“For me, it’s the strategy,” says Click, who will attend The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on a fencing scholarship. “Figuring out the opponent is like a puzzle. It’s not as straightforward as you would think. Obviously, there are rules you have to follow, but the actions can be different depending on who you are fencing. There are a lot of tiny adjustments you have to make, and I love doing that.”

The sport relies on a combination of physical and mental skills that provide a unique challenge for its competitors.

“When they try it, they realize how hard it is,” Hovanyi says. “Because on one hand, you have a lot of technical and physical skills that are very specific. You need a tremendous amount of endurance if you are going to be competing, and in the long run it becomes a mental game, because it’s all about tactics.”

Ben Rose, a sophomore at Crossroads Flex High School in Cary, gravitated toward fencing when he realized he was more interested in individual sports.

“I played soccer for a long time,” says Rose, who recently won a bronze medal in foil in an Under-17 competition in France. “I wasn’t a huge fan of team sports. I wanted to depend on what I know and what I’m good at. It was an independent sport. I like strategy, so it seemed perfect. I came here and fell in love with it right away.”

Apex Fencing Academy offers an introductory four-class experience that includes all the necessary equipment: mask, jacket, underarm protector, glove and blade. Most of the academy's new students are in the 11–13 age range, and about 60% of those students come back for more instruction.

“You have to be brave enough to have the guts to do it,” Hovanyi says. “Because it’s kind of scary when someone is coming toward you with a metal stick.”

Igor Moreno and Kriszti Hovanyi opened Apex Fencing Academy in 2009.

Photo courtesy of Christina Rose Photography

FINISH STRONG:

A Parent’s Guide to Combating SPRING FEVER

BY KRISTEN WYNNS, PH.D.

When the buds on trees shyly peek out from a long winter’s nap, when the birds and butterflies happily buzz through the perfect spring sky, and when the kids start staring out the window longingly in the middle of class, we know spring is here! Although spring is a beloved season for many with its warm days and perfect skies, parents and teachers know spring can be one of the toughest times of year to maintain children’s motivation and focus in school. As the finish line of the last day of school is in sight, many kids and teens are fatigued, stressed out or just want to be outside playing. It can be difficult for some children and adolescents to maintain their positive work habits, their attention in class and their motivation to “finish strong.” If the child or teen has academic or attention difficulties, it can be even more of a challenge to maintain (or strive for) good grades and completed assignments. Young kids can suffer from “burnout” just like adults, and many older kids and teens can be quite stressed by the academic demands and burden of final exams and tests.

Lack of Motivation and Interest

Decline in physical health:

Your child may have a decreased appetite or difficulty sleeping.

Negativity:

Your child’s positive attitude has disappeared. You may hear your child say, “What’s the point?” or find that she has lost interest in activities she used to enjoy.

Trouble concentrating:

Your child or teen may not be able to focus for as long as he did earlier in the school year.

Irritability:

Your child seems to be easily annoyed or upset by little things that weren’t a big deal in the past.

Procrastination:

Your teen used to be motivated to start homework or studying right away. Now you have to give several

reminders, and you may receive complaints and stall tactics.

Apathy:

Your child seems to have stopped caring about things she used to be positive about.

Avoiding situations:

Your child used to enjoy running up to friends in the carpool line or to greet a beloved teacher. Now your child comes up with excuses not to go to school or whines when it’s time to leave.

PHOTO

WHAT ARE SIGNS YOUR CHILD OR TEEN MAY BE BURNED OUT? PHOTO

Meditation:

Meditation calms the mind and grounds us. Even kids can benefit from a quick audio meditation exercise on the way to school or before starting homework.

Relaxation hacks:

Aromatherapy with essential oils like bergamot, lavender, clary sage, grapefruit and ylang-ylang can be used in a roller ball or diffuser.

Drinking soothing teas such as chamomile can also facilitate relaxation.

Breaks:

Use weekends and teacher workdays to rest. Kids and teens may also benefit from outdoor play or exercise before starting on homework each day.

Hobbies:

Spending time on something that brings joy, especially creative and physical activities, can help kids effectively cope with burnout.

Keeping a daily routine:

Having structure in life makes us feel more in control, organized and motivated. Stick with bedtimes, mealtimes, morning routines and screen limits.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle:

Student burnout wears out the body and mind. Help your kids benefit from adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes plenty of rest, daily sunshine, nutritious meals, eight glasses of water and at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day.

Get priorities straight: Help your kids prioritize their health, relationships and overall well-being over additional expectations for extracurriculars or family activities.

Practice sleep hygiene:

Being well-rested is essential to success in all areas of life. Aim to encourage healthy sleep habits, such as turning off all devices at least an hour before sleep, ventilating the bedroom and having a relaxing bedtime routine.

Therapy or counseling:

If your child or teen appears to be experiencing anxiety and depression that is interfering with day-to-day functioning or appears excessive, consider a consultation with a child psychologist or therapist.

Although spring can be a tough time to stay focused on academic success, supporting your child to maintain healthy habits can ensure they finish the school year strong.

Dr. Kristen Wynns is a licensed child and adolescent psychologist who owns Wynns Family Psychology, a child/adolescent specialty private practice with locations in Cary, North Raleigh and Greensboro. An expert on psychology and parenting issues, Dr. Wynns is also the author of "The No Wimpy Parenting Handbook," available on Amazon. She is a stand-up comic at night and offers humor coaching to businesses and individuals. Learn more at wynnsfamilypsychology.com.

PHOTO BY ANGEL_NTSTOCK.ADOBE.COM

PHOTO BY V&P PHOTO STUDIOSTOCK.ADOBE.COM

MARCH

DINOS ALIVE: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

Through April 8

Exhibition Hub Art Center Raleigh 6240 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh

Step back in time to the Mezozoic Era to engage with 80 highly accurate animatronic dinosaur models, immersive projection technology, virtual reality, theatrical lighting, elaborate scenery and hands-on activities. Purchase tickets online. dinosaliveexhibit.com/raleigh

“THE LITTLE MERMAID”

March 7–24

Fletcher Opera Theater

2 E. South Street, Raleigh

Carolina Ballet dazzles with a world-premiere ballet set to Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale featuring live music with a new score from composer Aaron Severini, as well as new sets and costumes. carolinaballet.com/the-little-mermaid

THEATREWORKS USA’S “THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM”

March 16, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Garner Performing Arts Center

742 W. Garner Road, Garner

Hop on the Magic School Bus for a ride in this musical adaptation based on the Scholastic’s original book series. When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an interplanetary field trip. But when rivalries threaten to tear the students apart, the young heroes must pull together or risk getting forever lost in the solar system. Purchase tickets online. etix.com

“FAIRYTALES ON ICE: PETER PAN”

March 23, 3 p.m.

The Clayton Center

111 E. Second Street, Clayton

See the beloved story of Peter Pan and his adventures in Neverland–on synthetic ice! Champion skaters bring your favorite fairytale characters to life through music and singing. townofclaytonnc.org

CINCH WORLD’S TOUGHEST RODEO

March 30, 7:30 p.m.

PNC Arena

1400 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh

Watch cowboy athletes compete to qualify for the richest rodeo in the world, the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo spotlights bull riding, saddle bronc riding and bareback riding, as well as the winner-takesall showdown round and women’s barrel racing. pncarena.com

P HOTO BY V ECTORFUSIONART - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

P HOTO BY I SLIM - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

P HOTO BY J ULIE - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

APRIL

NORTH CAROLINA SCIENCE FESTIVAL

April 1–30

Venues across North Carolina

Enjoy a monthlong celebration of science as the North Carolina Science Festival, now in its 14th year, showcases more than 400 in-person and virtual events taking place throughout the state. These fun and educational community-based events are hosted by schools, colleges, libraries, museums, parks and more to celebrate the economic, educational and cultural impacts of science in North Carolina. ncsciencefestival.org

HOLI

April 6, 3–7 p.m.

Apex Jaycee Park

451 W. Williams Street, Apex Welcome spring at Holi and enjoy music, food and lots of color. apexnc.org

“PETER AND THE WOLF”

April 6, 1 and 4 p.m.

Meymandi Concert Hall

2 E. South Street, Raleigh

The North Carolina Symphony presents Sergei Prokofiev’s musical composition that uses different instruments to represent each of the story’s characters. Will Peter and his friends catch the wolf? ncsymphony.org

CARRBORO OPEN STREETS

April 7, noon–4 p.m.

Downtown Carrboro

The Town of Carrboro closes East and West Weaver streets to vehicles and opens the space for fun activities, including biking, rock climbing and dancing. carrbororec.org

CHALK OF THE TOWN

April 13, 5–8 p.m.

300 W. Ballentine Street, Holly Springs

Shop for creations from local artisans and be entertained by roving musicians as chalk artists adorn the sidewalks of Holly Springs Cultural Center with their designs. hollyspringsnc.gov

“DISNEY PRINCESS: THE CONCERT”

April 14, 2 p.m.

Durham Performing Arts Center

123 Vivian Street, Durham

Don your favorite royal attire for largerthan-life animation and theatrical effects immersed in pure Disney magic. Stars from Broadway and the Disney Channel sing favorite princess, hero and villain songs, and share stories from their time on the stage and screen. dpacnc.com

STORYWALK GRAND OPENING AT ALSTON RIDGE PARK

April 16, 4 p.m.

6850 Hilltop Needmore Road Extension, Fuquay-Varina

Celebrate the permanent installation of Fuquay-Varina’s StoryWalk exhibit at Alston Ridge Park. Popsicles, crafts and prizes round out the event. fuquay-varina.org

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS

April 17, 7 p.m.

PNC Arena

1400 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh

Watch as the Harlem Globetrotters combine athleticism, theater and comedy in their legendary style of basketball at PNC Arena.

pncarena.com

THE MAGIC OF AFRICAN RHYTHM

April 20, 11 a.m.

Carolina Theatre

309 W. Morgan Street, Durham

The colorful spectrum of the African continent shines with traditional costumes, dance and drums, culminating in an onstage celebration with audience members. carolinatheatre.org

FESTIVAL OF LEGENDS

April 27–28

Sugg Farm

2401 Grigsby Avenue, Holly Springs

The Festival of Legends celebrates 11 years of magic with mythical monsters, proud knights, fairy tale creatures, fantasyinspired vendors, live music and more. Tickets are $15 online, $20 at the gate. Children 12 and younger are admitted for free with a paying adult.

festivaloflegends.com

Be sure to check the websites for these events before you head out to ensure they are still taking place.

P HOTO COURTESY OF THE MAGIC OF AFRICAN RHYTHM

P HOTO COURTESY

FESTIVAL OF LEGENDS

P HOTO COURTESY OF N ORTH CAROLINA SCIENCE FESTIVAL

COME HUNGRY

New treats to taste, opportunities to learn and recipes to try

TASTE

Mr. A’s Beignets

312 S. Mason Street, Apex squaredoughnuts.com

This beignet food truck is run by a chef who grew up in New Orleans and worked for beignet shops there for many years. Now he offers the Triangle these delicious, square French donuts, which he cooks according to an authentic New Orleans recipe. The doughnuts are served with powdered sugar and tasty dipping sauces. A delicious treat for all ages! Check the website’s calendar for operating hours.

Big Ed’s Restaurant

220 Wolfe Street, Raleigh

5009 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh 231 Timber Drive, Garner bigedsnc.com

With its flagship location conveniently located near Marbles Kids Museum and Moore Square in Raleigh, Big Ed’s serves tasty North Carolina country-style breakfast food and homestyle lunches in a fun setting. The décor involves an eclectic mix of farm equipment, toys and other odds and ends that will entertain kids. The portions are huge, especially the pancakes! Visit the website for each location’s hours.

Frank’s Pizza and Restaurant

2030 New Bern Avenue, Raleigh frankspizzainraleigh.com

Frank’s has been serving family-style pizza and Italian food for over thirty years. The restaurant’s ’80s-pizzeria vibe and friendly service make it ideal for families. The sauce and crust are made in-house. Call ahead and order a Sicilian—you won’t be disappointed! Frank’s Pizza is open Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

TRY

Yogurt Parfait

A yogurt parfait is a healthy meal or snack with the flair of a dessert.

INGREDIENTS

(for a breakfast-sized portion; cut in half for a snack)

• ½ cup fresh berries of your choice, plus a few extra for decoration on top. Chop large berries into bite-sized pieces.

• ½ cup low-sugar yogurt (flavor of your choice)

• ½ cup granola

DIRECTIONS

Add ¼ cup of granola to the bottom of a clear cup or jar. Add ¼ cup of fruit in a layer on top of the granola. Add ¼ cup of yogurt in a layer on top of the fruit. Repeat these layers, with the last of the yogurt at the top. Smooth the top so it looks nice. Add a few berries for decoration.

Variations : Using the above proportions for a guide to amounts, have fun choosing different layers to include in your parfaits. Consider with your child what flavors might taste good together.

SUGGESTIONS

Use different kinds of fruit—chopped banana, mango, peaches or cherries would also taste good. Try using dry cereal instead of granola. Add chopped nuts, seeds, dried coconut or dried fruit. (You might not want full layers of these—try adding 2–3 tablespoons of these to the granola or yogurt layer for some fun flavor and texture.)

Add a challenge! Find a child-friendly granola recipe and make your own granola for the parfait. Buy plain yogurt and sweeten or flavor it yourself by mixing in vanilla, honey, brown sugar, other flavor extracts, fruit or jam.

LEARN

C’est si Bon Cooking School, Chapel Hill 1002 Brace Lane, Chapel Hill cestsibon.net

A cooking school for all ages, C’est si Bon offers kid-focused culinary training in preparing cuisines from across the world. Through weeklong summer day camps or individual day camps on weekends and school holidays, the school teaches culinary skills to kids ages 8–14. Lessons include knife skills and the use of other kitchen tools, how to cook recipes, how to plan meals and work in groups, and how to keep a kitchen clean. Exercises and games are focused on exploring flavor and texture.

P HOTO COURTESY OF ADOBE STOCK

P HOTO BY D MITRYSTOCKSTOCK.ADOBE.COM

P HOTO COURTESY O F JANICE LEWINE

MAKING HIS PITCH

School, parents helping Wright Waters reach his soccer potential

Growing up in the small town of Clinton, North Carolina, Wright Waters wasn’t sure how his soccer skills stacked up.

“It’s been pretty recent, actually,” Waters says. “I was always pretty good compared to those kids, but when I moved to Raleigh, I was never on a high team. About two years ago is when I started to piece it together and started playing at the level I am now.”

The junior at Accelerator School in Morrisville plays for the U-19 Wake FC MLS Next team, a youth division of Major League Soccer that offers high-level competition and training. The organization has more than 500 teams and 11,000 players across North America. Waters began attending Accelerator School in 2016 to take advantage of academic scheduling and a curriculum that is customized for aspiring athletes. He followed in the footsteps of his brother, William, who graduated from the school in 2022 and plays soccer at The University of Tampa.

“Since I’ve gone to Accelerator is when I’ve truly committed myself to soccer, so for seven years,” Waters says. “But these last two years have been kind of the next level, where I have aspirations of playing pro and going further than just enjoying youth soccer. It’s more of a serious thing for me now.”

He is quick to give his school credit for his breakthrough in the sport.

“Accelerator has been a big piece of that,” says Waters, who plays center defensive midfielder. “[It’s] those morning trainings, where you have those extra touches and you can work on things that you can’t usually work on in your club training. That, and the hard work all just pieced together after all the years.”

Waters owes some of his success to his athletic parents. Will and Heather Waters played golf and tennis, respectively, at the University of South Carolina. They help provide insights into the details of being a competitive athlete.

“I’m pretty open with my parents about all of the mental side,” he says. “They may not fully understand the game, but they understand the mental side of sports, and it’s a huge contributor to how I approach things. It’s a great resource.”

Do you know a Good Sport who deserves recognition in our next issue?

Email editor@trianglefamilymag.com to share your news.

P HOTO COURTESY OF W RIGHT WATERS

P HOTO COURTESY OF W RIGHT WATERS

Bra·ve·ry [bray-vuh-ree]

having or showing mental or moral strength to face danger, fear or difficulty

Luka (16) of Fuquay-Varina challenges himself on a high ropes course in Banner Elk, North Carolina.

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