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ur job is to optimize the utility of the wealth our clients have accumulated for their current and future generations while protecting that value from the erosion of inflation and taxes.
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Giving Every Child a Healthy Start
PUBLISHER
Kent Braswell
EDITOR
Janice Lewine
ART AND WEB DIRECTOR
Sean Byrne
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Fran Sherman
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
James Jarnot
SECTION EDITOR
Kurt Dusterberg
Health, Wellness and Youth Sports
COPY EDITOR
Cindy Huntley
CONTRIBUTORS
Mandy Howard Alyse Levine, M.S. Ed.
SOCIAL MEDIA AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER
Crystal Watts
SALES DIRECTOR
Sherry Braswell
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Stefanie McClary
DISTRIBUTION
Joe Lizana Berry Media Group DistribuTech.net
of U.S. equal opportunity law.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
6 print issues per year Available online at trianglefamilymag.com Triangle Family Magazine, LLC 150 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 201 Cary, North Carolina 27513 Phone: 919.418.5511
Christian (2) of Raleigh explores the exhibits at the Museum of Life + Science in Durham.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CRYSTAL WATTS
Casen (9 months) of Raleigh takes his first ride on the merry-go-round at Pullen Park.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CRYSTAL WATTS
Camdyn (6) of Raleigh enjoys a cupcake at Bonafide Bake Shop in Apex.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CRYSTAL WATTS
The Wintermeier family welcomed baby girl Zoe on January 1 at 12:07 a.m. She was the first baby born at WakeMed in 2025.
PHOTO BY WAKEMED HEALTH & HOSPITALS
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SUMMER JOBS GIVE KIDS A CHANCE TO BUILD SKILLS
With the holidays behind us, kids will soon start thinking about how to spend the summer. Even for young teens, that might include a part-time job. Earning money is the most obvious attraction for school-age kids, but parents can remind kids of other important benefits to having a job. Healthychildren.org lays out several reasons to stay active and productive.
• Career exploration. Summer jobs and internships can help high school students explore career paths that might interest them.
• Financial independence. Teens can learn money management and begin a savings program.
• Time management. Young people can learn to set deadlines and be accountable for their work.
• Communication skills. Teens can learn how to communicate effectively with their supervisors, customers and colleagues.
• Work ethic. Learning teamwork, respect and responsibility in the workplace is a stepping stone to adulthood.
• Self-confidence. Working in real-world situations boosts self-esteem and self-confidence. Earning a paycheck gives teens a sense of achievement.
THEATRE RALEIGH MERGER TO BOOST YOUNG ACTORS
Aspiring young performers in the Triangle will have access to new resources following the merger between the Raleigh Area Children’s Theatre (Raleigh ACT) and Theatre Raleigh, a professional nonprofit company.
The youth training program will operate on the Theatre Raleigh Arts Center campus (6638 Old Wake Forest Road),
which includes the De Ann S. Jones mainstage theater, as well as studio, rehearsal and performance spaces.
Theatre Raleigh ACT offers both performance and technique classes, as well as summer and track-out camps for children ages 4–18. Programs are designed for beginners and experienced performers. The school also offers inclusive classes for students with developmental disabilities.
“This partnership ensures that Raleigh ACT director Blaire Thompson and her team can continue their incredible work while benefiting from our sound, lighting, scenic design and connections to Broadway talent,” said Lauren Kennedy Brady, Raleigh Theatre’s executive director. “It also builds a direct pipeline for young talent to join Theatre Raleigh productions.” Learn more at raleighact.com.
FIRST TEE–TRIANGLE OFFERS SUMMER GOLF CAMPS
First Tee–Triangle will host six five-day summer golf camps from June 16–August 1. Each Monday–Friday camp runs 9 a.m.–1 p.m. and costs $99. The first session is at Knights Play Golf Center in Apex, followed by a camp at River Ridge Golf Club in Raleigh. The remaining four take place at TriGolf in Raleigh, First Tee’s new home. Financial assistance is available.
First Tee integrates the game of golf with a life skills curriculum that features active learning experiences. The program builds inner strength, self-confidence and resilience that kids can apply in other areas of their lives. Campers can use their own clubs, or borrow from First Tee. Families must supply a lunch, labeled water bottle and shoes, and clothing suited for outdoor play. Learn more at firstteetriangle.org.
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WCPSS LAUNCHES LITERACY INITIATIVE WITH NONPROFIT PARTNERS
The Wake County Public School System has launched a new literacy initiative, Level Up Literacy. Level Up Literacy will be supported by local nonprofit partners Read and Feed and the WakeEd Partnership for the remainder of the 2024–2025 school year. Read and Feed has supported WCPSS elementary school students for nearly 18 years with its literacy, food security and book distribution programs across Wake County. As part of Level Up Literacy, Read and Feed will train volunteers and provide its literacy program and resources to support students. Tutors will be provided with ongoing literacy training, coaching and support to meet individual student needs and track progress. WakeEd Partnership, which has been a key partner since the program’s inception, will continue its role of recruiting volunteers, community-based organizations and businesses to support Level Up Literacy. Learn more at wakeed.org/levelupliteracy.
HIGH SCHOOL SPOKEN WORD CONTEST NAMES THREE WINNERS
United Arts Wake County, in partnership with the Raleigh Fine Arts Society, recently announced three winners in the second annual High School Spoken Word Contest. The competition celebrates the power of poetry and spoken word by inviting high school students from Wake,
BY JANICE LEWINE
NC PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS SCORE AT OR ABOVE AVERAGE ON NATIONAL ASSESSMENT, BUT PANDEMIC GAPS PERSIST
Data released in January by the U.S. Department of Education shows that North Carolina public school students are ahead of the nation in eighth grade math and tracking with their peers in other tested subjects. The National Assessment of Educational Progress, or NAEP, is administered to fourth and eighth graders every two years in the subjects of reading and math. Known as The Nation’s Report Card, NAEP provides a common measure of student achievement across the nation using a representative sample of schools and students.
The 2024 data shows that there has been no significant change in North Carolina students’ scale scores in any area since 2022, and three of the four tested areas remain below pre-pandemic levels. In fourth grade math, there is no statistically significant difference in students’ scores from 2019 to 2024. However, the percentage of students scoring at or above the proficient level has increased for both fourth and eighth grade math since 2022. Nationally, fourth grade math scores improved and eighth grade math scores did not change, but North Carolina’s grade 8 math scores were statistically above the national average. Reading scores for the nation declined for both grade levels.
State Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green said this data shows that while the pandemic may be over, its effects are still being felt. The fourth graders who participated in the test were in kindergarten in spring 2020, and the eighth graders were in fourth grade at the beginning of the pandemic.
“These students had their learning disrupted during a critical time in their early education. While it is always disappointing to see a lack of progress, the NAEP data tracks with trends we’re seeing in state-level end-of-grade testing,” Green said. “The widening achievement gap between our highest performing students and those with greater needs adds another layer of urgency to the work my team and I will be doing over the next four years to inspire excellence in our public schools.”
Learn more at dpi.nc.gov and nationsreportcard.gov.
Orange and Durham counties to showcase their creativity and share their unique voices. A panel of professional poets selected 12 finalists, who were honored at a celebratory reception on January 28 at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh. During the event, the top three winners were announced and awarded cash prizes. They include Josephine Geolas of Wakefield High School, who
received $1,000; Kenna Zhang of Cary Academy, who received $500; and Talia Favatella of North Wake College and Career Academy, who received $300. All finalists were awarded a $100 gift card. Each of the finalist’s recordings can be viewed at unitedarts.org/spokenword. The 2025 High School Spoken Word Contest application will open in fall 2025.
STUDENT ART
Art is more than just visual pleasure; it is an expression of how we see ourselves—joyful, sad, frightened and serene. Art fosters understanding between diverse groups of people while also touching the most hidden parts of a person’s spirit. Developing this special connection to art starts young, when individuals are encouraged to express their thoughts and emotions in ways that spark dialogue, create empathy and nurture self-discovery.
Triangle Family is proud to present our second annual Student Art Showcase, a compilation of visual art images from young people in public and private elementary, middle and high schools across the Triangle. Of the more than 100 submissions that were evaluated by our jury, each is print worthy; our only limitation is page space. By displaying 23 pieces publicly, we hope all the talented students who submitted works are inspired to continue developing their artistic skills—and for our readers to value the beauty that every child can create.
“The inspiration for this piece comes from the moment when a leopard yawns, showcasing its wildness and elegance.”
Won first place in the 2024 North Carolina State Fair Art & Photography competition in the Public, Private and Home Schools division with Davis Drive Middle School; Won third place in the 2025 Woman’s Club of Raleigh Arts Festival competition.
THE YAWNING LEOPARD
Henry Davis Drive Middle School, Grade 8
Charcoal
WINTER TREES
Jewell
St. David’s School, Grade 7
Block print
MEGAVERSE
Harper
Sanderson High School, Grade 9
Ballpoint pen
“My drawing is formed using the lyrics of my favorite song, ‘Megaverse,’ that talks about how passion, focus and determination are necessary for success.”
MY MARVELOUS MINION
Taylen
Vandora Springs Elementary School, Grade 2
Cardboard box, streamers, bathroom tissue rolls
“I always love minions.”
PRINCE OF PEACE
Sawyer
Cary Christian School, Grade 11
Foam sculpting blocks
“God being the Prince of Peace means so much for the Christian life. The world around us may fall to pieces, but we are held up by One who does not turn His back on us.”
ATLANTIC BEACH
Odette
St. David’s School, Grade 8
Acrylic paint, canvas paper
“I love the beach. I used to live there, and painted this art to remind me of what every day used to look like to me.”
SPILLED RICE INSTALLATION
Erin
Durham Academy, Grade 12
Ceramic, rice
“I was inspired by Korean moon jars. Traditionally, they store rice and are constructed by sealing two halves together to form the whole.”
THE ONE AND ONLY Nele
tThe Montessori School of Raleigh, Grade 9 Collage, magazine paper
“I wanted to highlight the power and control that we have over Earth, as it is so important and truly our only home.”
tSTRENGTH
Kyra
Willow Spring High School, Grade 12
Acrylic paint, fabric
“This piece represents the hidden struggle many experience in their life. However, through adversity there is perseverance and courage. Prosper, let your light shine.”
Recognized and displayed in the 2025 Willow Spring High School art show.
SUNNY DAY WAVE
Abby Ravenscroft, Grade 3
Ink plate
“I wanted to create a wave that reminded me of the sunrise. The colors also contrasted the background really well.”
VERDANT GAZE
Michai
Ravenscroft, Grade 12
Digital photography, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom
“This work examines identity and camouflage, drawing inspiration from the balance between nature and an individual. The strong bond with nature is emphasized by the striking contrast between skin and plants.”
Won honorable mention in the 2025 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards in the photography category; Won first place in Ravenscroft’s Living Hand Storytellers Competition in the art and photography category.
ANGER MAKES THE HEART GROW COLDER Emmaline
Cary Christian School, Grade 12
Clay, acrylic paint, yarn, 3D materials
“I wanted to show through this piece how anger and jealousy are negative emotions, presenting how we damage ourselves when these negative emotions control us.”
UNTITLED
Richie
Apex Middle School, Grade 8
Acrylic paint
“I like this painting because it reminds me of going to get donuts with my family when I was younger.”
FISH IN THE SEA
Juliana
The Montessori School of Raleigh, Grade 12
Colored pencil
“The inspiration for this work came from the ability of humans to experience dark emotions, even when the world around them is so bright and full of color.”
MAD MONKEY MAKEUP
Cameron
Wake Forest High School, Grade 12
2B pencil
“This was for a weekly sketch in my art class at school. The prompt involved a monkey and a science lab.”
“I like the colors and thought [they would] be great together.”
UNTITLED
Abigail, Grade 9
Bethany, Grade 10
Caroline, Grade 9
Heron, Grade 9
Logan, Grade 10
Morgan, Grade 9
Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill Paper
Drawing inspiration from each other, friends had fun completing an art project and making something beautiful together.
www.boothamphitheatre.com
A NEW ERA OF ADVOCACY AT GANTT FAMILY LAW
Gantt Family Law is excited to welcome Anna Worley, a distinguished family law attorney and former district court judge, to our esteemed legal team. With a remarkable track record and a strong commitment to justice, Anna is poised to redefine how we assist clients through the complexities of divorce and child custody.
A LEGACY OF IMPACT
Over her 16 years on the bench, Anna demonstrated her dedication to transforming lives. One of her accomplishments was drafting a landmark order that expanded domestic violence protections for dating couples, highlighting her commitment to equality and justice.
As a board-certified Family Law Specialist, Anna expertly navigates disputes in all areas of family law, including divorce, child custody, equitable distribution, child support and alimony. Her personalized approach ensures solutions that meet clients’ unique needs.
NAVIGATING DIVORCE AND CUSTODY WITH CONFIDENCE
For those facing the emotional and practical challenges of separation, Anna provides invaluable guidance: “Carefully define your priorities.” Recognizing the overwhelming nature of ending a relationship, she encourages individuals to release anger and fear, and embrace opportunities that lead to positive outcomes.
Anna is equipped to navigate the oftendaunting legal system and craft solutions that empower clients. As a DRC (Dispute Resolution Commission)–Certified Family Financial Mediator, she is committed to fostering stability.
EMPATHY AT THE HEART OF REPRESENTATION
Anna’s experience on the bench gives her profound empathy for clients facing challenges. “Discussing the end of a relationship is deeply
personal and can leave individuals feeling vulnerable,” she explains. Her compassionate approach encourages clients to share their stories.
A VISION FOR COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT
Anna focuses on empowering individuals through education about their rights and protections. This approach not only fosters understanding, but also instills confidence in clients as they navigate challenging circumstances.
WELCOME TO THE TEAM!
Richard Gantt, the firm’s founder, says: “I litigated cases before Anna for many years and always found her knowledgeable, thorough, professional, fair and approachable. Her wealth of experience and insights from her judicial role will make her an outstanding addition as we expand our expertise in the Triangle.”
Anna’s dedication to clients, commitment to justice and collaborative spirit will enhance our practice and the support we provide. Choose Anna Worley and Gantt Family Law for compassionate advocacy and expert representation during your family law journey.
919.769.2444
ganttfamilylaw.com
Raconteur RHAPSODY
Local storytellers Donna Washington, Willa Brigham and Linda Gorham reflect on their illustrious careers and the art of spinning a yarn
BY JANICE LEWINE
Storytelling is more than just entertainment: It encourages a listener’s imagination through words and actions, transports us to another time and place, and cultivates a deeper understanding of ourselves. Above all, storytelling brings people together based on common experiences. Triangle Family sat down with storytelling titans Donna Washington, Willa Brigham and Linda Gorham, all of whom call the Triangle home and collectively share more than 100 years of bringing tales to life—at festivals, schools, libraries, online platforms, and just about any place where a group of people can be enraptured by the spoken word. Here, Donna, Willa and Linda tell a different kind of story—that of their calling—and share ways parents can make their own storytelling better.
DONNA WASHINGTON
Donna has been inspiring audiences for 37 years with her vocal agility, facial expressions and deep characterizations of literary tales, folklore and personal narratives. With 11 storytelling CDs that have garnered 36 national awards and six children’s books, Washington’s body of work is as prolific as it is endearing.
What was your childhood like?
I’m one of seven children. My father was in the U.S. Army, and we moved every four years. The biggest chunk of time I spent was in South Korea. Three of my adopted siblings are half Korean. On Saturday mornings, we’d make our parents breakfast and do a skit for them. So I come from a family that performs and talks and sings, but none of us planned to be a professional performer.
How did you become a storyteller?
In my second year at Northwestern University I felt a little lost. I left school for a semester. My mom said nothing about it, aside from telling me I had to audition for shows while I was home. I felt like I wasn’t a good performer, but I decided to humor her. I was surprised when I got cast in the first show I auditioned for, “A Visit With Mother Goose.” I was Mother Goose. After that show, I thought, “If I can play Mother Goose, I can do anything!” I returned to school and started auditioning for children’s theater. After one of the shows, Professor Rives Collins told me that I was actually a storyteller. I was twenty-nothing, so I just shrugged and agreed with him. He spent the next year and
a half turning me into a storyteller! From signing me up for graduate-level classes to helping me get my first gigs, he has always been in my corner.
What was your first gig?
Rives invited me to do a show and I got $150 to tell one story—a folktale about Anansi, the trickster spider from Ghana. I thought, “Wow, I suppose you can make a living doing this!” By the time I graduated from college, everyone knew I was a storyteller. I’m the first person to graduate from Northwestern University as a storyteller.
What is your storytelling style?
I’m a minimalist, which means I don’t use props. I’m into traditional storytelling, so I engage your imagination to the point where you’re watching me but you’re someplace else, experiencing something else. My stories are built very specifically for the group of people I’m talking to, are socially and emotionally appropriate and have interactive components. I really enjoy performing for high school and middle school students, because they don’t know that they like stories. I have a whole series of original stories, but in schools I try to tell stories that kids can find in books in the library. I’m doing folklore because most kids have no idea what that folklore is, because we don’t tell the original stories anymore. What I tell are my versions of all these traditional materials. I want kids to find the books, the tongue twisters, the book about the spider from Africa.
How do your stories for adults differ from those for children?
With grown-ups, the sky’s the limit. I love
telling ghost stories and inappropriately spooky ones, and murder mayhem stories.
What feedback do you get from audiences?
Kids ask how I got started in storytelling and how I make a living doing it. Others tell me that I inspired them to write, do theater or be a librarian. I want storytelling to inspire someone to move, one way or another. That’s the best thing about it: You tell a story and immediately people want to tell stories about their own stuff.
You’ve written six children’s books. Do you want to write for grown-ups?
My two most recent books for kids, “Boo Stew” and “Prak Fills the House,” are fractured fairy tales. I’m writing my first nonfiction book for grown-ups, called “No Magic Required,” about the art and importance of storytelling—what it is, what it does, and its intersection in culture, politics and superstition.
Are you involved in other projects?
I cofounded Artists Standing Strong Together with a storyteller named Sheila Arnold during the pandemic. When the world shut down, storytellers couldn’t do shows; we had to go virtual. ASST (asst.art) is a nonprofit arts organization that brings together storytellers and performers from all over the world for weekly meetings and performances, and is free to anyone. We also run two international storytelling camps every year for children, and pair them with a mentor anywhere in the world.
What are your hobbies?
I love to build jigsaw puzzles and read folklore. I enjoy watching Chinese historical movies and K-Dramas on Netflix because it’s the music of my childhood and makes me want to brush up on my Korean.
What brought you to the Triangle?
Chicago is cold! I told my husband, David, when we were dating that we had to live someplace warm. He picked three places, and Raleigh-Durham was one of them. We moved to Wake Forest in 1997 and two and a half years later to Durham, where we’ve lived ever since.
How can parents become better storytellers?
Use voices, pitch, tone and pacing. I think of picture books as a participatory activity, so if there are places where a child can repeat after you or say things instead of you, I encourage that.
Donna is renowned for her expressive storytelling for children and adults.
WILLA BRIGHAM
Willa’s magical brand of storytelling has entertained audiences for 45 years. She has recorded four CDs of children’s stories and two for adults, written two children’s books, and is the host and TV personality of WRAL-TV’s Emmy award–winning television show “Smart Start Kids,” which ran from 2002 to 2009. She’s also a motivational speaker for grown-ups. Willa’s art extends far beyond the stage and screen, as she has served the local community for decades.
How did you become a storyteller?
I started with my kids by taking the things they said and turning them into a poem. Then I started making up stories, and they liked those better than the ones I read to them! I told a story to a group and someone paid me for the very first time.
Who were your influences?
Ella Jenkins! I took my sons to the library in Illinois and Ella (famously known as the first lady of children’s music) was there, playing her ukulele and interacting with the children. She
planted the seed for me. And Maya Angelou. She spoke at a [book signing] event in Massachusetts and I was awed by her style and nuances. She signed my book and said, “Tell your story, my sister!” and I said, “Yes, I will!”
How do you engage young listeners?
I use stories, poetry and songs. There’s always a recurring line so they can interact with me. What child doesn’t want to say, “boom boom jiggy jiggy boom boom!” I’ve been given a gift to utilize, and I don’t mind being a spectacle because I believe in myself. I fracture fairy tales to make them do what I want them to do. I like strong girl stories, so I wrote “Cinderella with Attitude” because I want girls to know they can be strong and wise, and know their worth. I’m teaching without preaching. My stories never end happily ever after, because that’s not good enough for me. I want the audience to have something more to look forward to.
What feedback do you get from audiences? Sometimes kids want to know more about what happened at the end of a story. That tells
you they are listening and that you’ve engaged them—and that’s when I tell them they can write a story or a song, too. Some parents say they want to be able to tell stories like I do. I love the interactions and feedback, but I love it even more when I see families out there together.
WRAL-TV’s “Smart Start Kids” took you and local children to experience the people and places of North Carolina. What was that like?
It was cool! We went wherever something interesting was happening. We met a wool artist, a woodcarver and Cirque du Soleil performers. We visited a beach and flew a kite there. Kids can watch the episodes on wral.com.
Is wearing a hat part of your signature style?
Yes, I have many hats. I didn’t wear hats much last summer and someone I knew didn’t recognize me! When I’m performing, I don’t dress up as characters. I want them to see me. I use my voice and my actions to engage them, so they use their own creative imagination on our journey.
How are you involved with the Triangle community?
I have been an active member of the Cary Woman’s Club for over 25 years. I’m on the board of Kids Together Playground in Cary. To have a playground that’s inclusive for children who normally cannot play on [common] playground equipment is wonderful. I’m the one who’ll gather the children around and blow bubbles and tell stories, so it fits me perfectly. I also teach summer camps at the Durham Arts Council in storytelling, spoken word and dance.
What are your hobbies?
I’m a quilt nut. I love fiber art. I make art out of threads, buttons, beads and scraps that are left over from my quilting and stitching. I just sold a piece at an art show. I’m over the moon that somebody bought my art!
What brought you to the Triangle?
My husband’s job. We’ve lived in Cary since 1993. I love to explore and participate in some of everything, so I’m in my haven here.
How can parents become better storytellers? Read with enthusiasm. Use inflection and have kids make sounds to go along with the story; they love that. And sing to your children!
Willa won two Emmy Awards for her work on WRAL-TV’s “Smart Start Kids.”
LINDA GORHAM
Linda has engaged audiences of all ages with global folktales, distinctive Greek myths and notably twisted fairy tales for 35 years. She has delivered countless performances at national and regional storytelling festivals, recorded two award-winning CDs (“Common Sense & Uncommon Fun” and “Jumping on Grandma’s Plastic Covered Couch”), and earned four national storytelling awards. Linda’s tales are infused with her unconventional humor and signature “sophisticated attitude.” Before she became a recognized raconteur, Linda spent 13 years as a human resources manager for Prudential.
How did you become a storyteller?
My college degree was in math. I took a speech class and my teacher encouraged me to get rid of my New Jersey accent. I ended up minoring in speech because of that teacher challenging me with my accent.
After I left Prudential, I spent nine years as a homemaker. I saw a storyteller performing with 300 people and I thought, “Wow, she’s taking us on a journey!” I told my first story, “Tacky the Penguin” by Helen Lester, to my son’s preschool class. The kids were so engaged and had so much fun! That was the beginning of my career—telling stories to children, and then to adults, and getting paid! When I lived in Illinois I joined the Fox Valley Storytelling Guild, where we encouraged, coached, pushed and loved each other. Without that group, I would not be the storyteller I am today.
Describe your storytelling style.
I don’t dress up as characters; I simply wear colorful clothes with statement earrings. I love to include song segments in my stories, but I’m not a singer. I tell a lot of folktales because I love the messages, the fun and the lessons in them. I have a whole repertoire of stories I call “African American Heroes and Sheroes.” All the stories I tell from history are very satisfying, because people are getting an insight from the voices of the people who lived it. Middle schoolers are a treat! My favorite program for middle schoolers is “Love Stories from Greek Mythology.” I get them participating in myths in ways they never imagined. Twisting familiar stories for adults is a genre that I never expected to embrace. Some of my favorites are versions of “Little Red Riding Hood” (with Motown songs), “Goldilocks and the Three
Linda’s interactive performances feature surprising twists and unconventional humor.
Bears” (with chocolate references), and “Rumpelstiltskin” (with Beatles songs).
How do you engage young listeners?
My answer is simple: They will not ‘breathe’ during those 45 minutes. Ha, ha! They will be completely engaged physically, and with their words, laughter and responses. It’s me, the audience, and the story—in an equilateral triangle existence—all enjoying the stories together.
What feedback do you get from audiences?
I get insightful questions, like “What was the first story you ever told?” and “What’s your favorite story to tell?” Some people tell me they didn’t expect to have so much fun. The best came from a second grader who said, “Mrs. Gorham is better than recess!” Sometimes kids just want to give me hugs.
I trust that my audience will have fun, hopefully learn something, relive a memory and enjoy some shared laughter. The feedback helps me to know I’m doing the right thing.
What are you most proud of?
I am the only person who has cochaired both the National Storytelling Network Conference and the National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference.
I have my photo and a quote on the Wall of Storytelling Faces and Voices at the International Storytelling Center in Jonesborough, Tennessee that reads, ‘Stories, whether family, folk, twisted or true, remind us that embellished is acceptable, simple is complex, and the joy of sharing is priceless. Share some love. Tell someone a story.’ Those events, and that honor, are highlights of my career.
What are your hobbies?
I love playing tennis and golf, maybe just as much as being on stage.
What brought you to the Triangle?
“My husband retired when we were in Chicago and we decided to move somewhere warm. We’ve lived in Cary for eight years. We really like this area.”
How can parents become better storytellers?
Let your inner child come out. Look at the pictures in books and ask your children questions about what they’re seeing or what’s going to happen next. Make up a song together about the story themes or the characters. Try to make those precious times when you read with your children an enjoyable and creative experience.
Learn more at dlwstoryteller.com, willabrigham.com and lindagorham.com.
Any parent with a child playing youth sports today can tell you: It’s a different world from a generation ago.
Gone are the days when kids grew up playing a 10-game schedule in the local youth league. In its place, in nearly every sport, is a massive industry that offers highly organized, year-round training and competition— commonly referred to as “club” or “travel” sports. While that sort of exposure is ideal for the most motivated athletes, critics point out some obvious drawbacks. It is expensive, time-consuming and not necessarily the best way to orient a child’s development. Should a 9-year-old train with a softball team year-round? Should a family travel across the country with a teenager for weekend soccer tournaments?
And then there’s the issue of money. Community recreational leagues still provide a good start for kids who are learning a sport, and the cost is often less than $100 per season. But enrolling a young athlete in a sports organization requires some thoughtful decisions. Sports clubs for pre-teens can require an annual commitment between $2,000–$5,000. The cost can easily surpass $15,000 per year for teens who travel to showcase events to play in front of college recruiters.
On the plus side, kids who play at the club and travel level typically have access to high-quality training facilities and coaching, but often that is just the start of the financial commitment. Depending on the sport, parents will encounter a variety of additional expenses:
•tournament fees
•game and practice uniforms
•equipment
•private lessons
•travel costs (hotels, meals, gas)
Not all sports have the same financial profile. Basketball and soccer do not require a lot of personal equipment, but if you have an aspiring hockey goalie or baseball catcher, you’ll be purchasing plenty of protective gear—and on a regular basis as your child grows.
Weighing the costs versus the opportunities is complex, and the decision can have a profound effect on family life. Here are the stories of three local families who pursued high-level sports for their kids and what they have learned.
Briana Brown (spiking the ball) plays for Carolina Advantage Volleyball club’s national team.
The Brown family has made financial adjustments for Briana (second from left) to pursue her athletic dreams.
FOLLOWING A FASTBALL
Will Vetter played rec baseball with the Town of Cary through age 12 before joining a travel team and excelling as a pitcher. When he began throwing in the 80-mileper-hour range as a freshman, his father began asking around to find out how Will could maximize his exposure to colleges.
“This was Will’s dream, and he was showing some ability toward it,” Josh Vetter said. “All the sources I spoke to said yes—if you want to be seen, these are the places you need to go and pitch, and this is the time.”
With that in mind, Will joined a showcase team. “We definitely had the conversations and talked about the sacrifices we were going to make,” Vetter said. “As a family, we decided collectively to suck it up. While it is expensive, the cost was not prohibitive for us.”
Will and his father made four trips to Atlanta last year, the summer before his junior year at Cary High School. Each time, they spent a week in a vacation rental. Along with the cost of organization fees, meals and gas money, the family invested $1,000 per week for those trips alone.
The high-level exposure for Will’s 90mph fastball paid off when he landed an athletic scholarship at Virginia Tech. But the experience left Josh wondering if the system works for all young athletes.
For four trips with his showcase baseball team, Will’s family invested $1,000 per week to cover the cost of fees, meals and gas money.
“I don’t know if there is another avenue for a less fortunate athlete to get seen or recruited,” Vetter said. “We benefited from coaches that were huge advocates for Will. They had connections with [college] coaches.”
Vetter isn’t sure how to make the system more affordable or fair to all families, but he doesn’t like the idea of shopping athletes at year-round events.
“I’m not a fan of this trend,” he says. “You could participate in a showcase event or a camp every week of the year if you wanted to, and there are organizations that will let you know that,” Vetter says. “You certainly could chase [a scholarship], with the number of specialized trainings you can participate in. The culture is a little concerning.”
TAKING A LEAP OF FAITH
Briana Brown began playing volleyball with Apex Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources at age 14. Before long, parents were suggesting that she was talented enough to pursue club volleyball—an idea that didn’t immediately impress her mother.
“I’m a very frugal person, so it was a very tough pill to swallow, thinking that it
was a lot of money for this,” Diana Brown says. “But we tried to balance that this is something that she really enjoys.”
Just 18 months later, Briana joined the Carolina Advantage Volleyball club and immediately earned an invitation to join the program’s national team. Diana and her husband, Derrick, accepted the bid, but not without considering what it would mean for the family budget. The schedule included 11 tournaments, including trips to Philadelphia, Atlanta, and two visits to Orlando. The bill for the October–June season is $6,000. Additionally, their seventh-grade daughter has joined the team as a practice player at a reduced rate.
Like most parents who take their kids to club and travel sports, the Browns recognize that the exposure may help them pursue college scholarships. “We have that in mind, because the club we’re at is run by college coaches,” Brown says. “They do recruitment labs, talking to kids about what opportunities are available. Bri doesn’t want to be a Division I player, though. She thinks that looks like a lot of stress, practicing every single night.”
In the meantime, the Browns are prepared to make volleyball fit into the budget. That includes outside costs such as mandatory bookings at stay-to-play hotels, private lessons, equipment and gas money. “We don’t typically do big vacations, and we don’t eat out a lot. I’ve never been one to be spendy anyway,” Brown says.
For now, the Browns are all-in on Briana’s volleyball career—and perhaps her sister Emily is right behind her.
“We’re just going to take a leap, see how it goes,” Brown says. “If she thrives in it, then we will think about it again next season.”
DIFFERENT STROKES
When 5-year-old Molly Ray started with her Raleigh neighborhood swim program, her family also took the plunge. She soon began moving through the age groups at Marlins of Raleigh Swim Team, winning freestyle and backstroke events and qualifying for sectional meets. But deep down, her father had his concerns.
“Competing and having success breeds confidence,” Mackelly Ray says. “But I struggle with the fact that swimming is all-consuming. It’s 11 months a year, most times five swim practices a week.”
And then there was the money. In the early days with the swim club, the
commitment was close to $3,000 per year—a figure that doubled once she reached high school. “You need more equipment, and you go to bigger and more expensive meets,” he says.
The swimming budget wasn’t a major concern, but Mackelly and his wife Stacey began to see how the commitment was changing their daughter’s life. “Molly missed so many sleepovers because she had to be at the pool at 6 a.m. on Saturday morning,” Ray says. “She wanted to play basketball, but there was no time for it.
She tried a year of lacrosse, but she missed too many practices and games because of the time commitment for swimming.”
Halfway through high school, Molly gave up year-round competition, eventually swimming only for her
Leesville Road High School team. “She stopped when she decided that this wasn’t what she wanted,” her father says. “She said, ‘There’s other things I want to do. I’ve done my swim time.’”
Molly turned her attention to the school’s theater program, where she secured a lead role in “Mean Girls” as a senior. She is now a freshman in the Honors College at East Carolina University. While her father never pushed her to parlay her swimming career into a scholarship, he wonders if the years in the pool were the best use of her time.
“You run into this trap of, you can’t get off the wheel because you’re going to get behind,” Ray says. “Then you’re not winning and it’s frustrating, and you may lose interest. It’s complicated. I still struggle with how I feel about it.”
Molly Ray turned her sights from competitive swimming to theater, in part because of swimming’s time commitments.
Iand Beyond
BY MANDY HOWARD
s your family about to grow? You’re in luck! Because of the advice in this article, you will never have questions or worries, and you will never be tired. Furthermore, you will always look beautiful, your bank account will always be full and your child will always be happy! Ready?
OK. Here we go…
CUT UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS FROM YOUR LIFE
Please ignore any and all things that make promises like the one above (except, of course, for this article, because we admit we’re kidding).
No book, checklist, article, product or human will make parenting easy. This journey is just that—a journey. You’ll experience lows unlike any you’ve ever felt and euphoric moments when you think, “Eureka! I found the secret!”
Only to have that exact same “secret” not work the very next day. It is a wild, glorious, beautiful, insane ride.
Are you on social media? Check your algorithms now. Are “momfluencers” you’re following providing you stress or comfort? Now is the time to consider what you are feeding yourself online. If your current feed makes promises like the ones above (perfect body, perfect mom, perfect wife, etc.), reconsider them and look for feeds that embrace chaos and make you smile.
WEIGH NECESSITIES VS. NICETIES
When registering and setting up your nursery, consider what things are necessities and what things are niceties.
The first few weeks with baby are all about food, sleep and poop (just being real).
You need a safe and comfortable place for baby to sleep, a safe traveling system, clothing and blankets, diapers, a dependable laundry system and feeding support—whether that
means bottles and formula, a breast pump and nursing attire, or a combination of both. Before you make big purchases, ask yourself (or a trusted mom friend) if they’re necessary. Here are a few other things to keep in mind:
• Babies can be picky when it comes to bottles. Instead of buying a dozen of one kind, get a sample set. Once you know which kind of nipple and bottle your baby prefers, you can stock up as needed.
• Safe car seats and dependable strollers are 100% worth the investment.
• You’re going to want to be able to throw some onesies away. Let the grandparents and neighbors buy the cute, expensive outfits. You focus on the multipacks that can get tossed in case of blowout.
Set yourself up for success and have fun shopping, but don’t break the bank.
PLAN FOR THE FUTURE, NOW
While it’s very fun to shop for teeny-tiny shoes and bibs with clever sayings, the baby phase is pretty short-lived. One of the greatest gifts you can give your baby is the gift of education, and you can start now.
Tia Anderson, program services representative for NC 529 and NC Assist at College Foundation, encourages parents to start early. A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings account that helps families save for education expenses and can be opened prior to baby’s arrival, attaching the child’s social security number later. Anderson says, “Starting as early as
possible is extremely fundamental to ensure your child or loved one maximizes savings for their future education.”
While many people know that 529 plans can be used for college tuition, there are many additional qualified expenses, including:
• College expenses
• Trade school and apprenticeship programs
• K–12 tuition expenses
• And more.
For more information, visit cfnc.org/nc529.
SPEAKING OF THE FUTURE, WE’RE ALL GONNA DIE, SO GET A WILL
Sorry, supremely depressing, but it’s true. If you’ve got a will, update it. If you don’t have one, make one. While, officially speaking, handwritten laws are valid in North Carolina (so there really is no excuse), it’s highly recommended to consult with an attorney or estate professional.
Richard Gantt, a board-certified family law specialist with Gantt Family Law in Raleigh, advises, “Many people overlook the importance of having a will, and that can lead to unforeseen challenges for their families. Without a will in place, your loved ones may face the difficult task of having a judge decide how your
assets are distributed, which can lead to disputes among family members.” He continues, “Additionally, without proper estate planning, a significant portion of your hard-earned money could be lost to taxes. Taking the time to create a will not only protects your legacy but also ensures your family is cared for the way you intended.”
REMEMBER SELF-CARE
We talked about noticing what you’re feeding yourself when it comes to social media, but that goes for every phase of your life.
Ensuring a good diet, sleep, exercise habits and time with friends will all soon become proactive choices you have to make. When you’re a new mom—I’m just going to say it— everything can feel harder. You might not feel like eating healthy, you might not feel like joining your friend for a walk. Sometimes we trick ourselves into thinking that caring for ourselves is selfish. But you have to make the choice to do so. Care for yourself, so you can best care for your baby. Friend, we’ve been having babies since the dawn of man. You got this. So take a deep breath, ask for help when you need it, and buy some cute things and a couple of cool new gadgets to make your life easier (again, without breaking the bank). Most of all, know that you are loved, so you can spill that love to your baby.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends kids have their first visit by age one, or when the first tooth makes an appearance. A child’s first dental visit is an opportunity for parents to learn about the importance of dental health and hygiene for their little one. Did you know that a tongue tie in an infant can lead to challenges with breastfeeding? Muscle strength gained from breastfeeding and eating properly leads to proper bone development to give your child that beautiful face you look upon as they
grow up, and reduces the incidence of crooked, crowded teeth as adolescents, as well as reducing sleep-disordered breathing as they become adults. We spend extra time at your first visit answering all your questions. In fact, it’s so important to us, we’re willing to share for free! We always offer a first birthday visit for free, but for a limited time, we’re extending this offer to all kids under 5. Our special kids room is so much fun, they can’t wait to come back! And we take just as much care with Mom and Dad on the adult’s side of the office.
Come check out why kids are reminding their parents it’s time to go to the dentist. Give us a call today!
2128 High House Road #200, Cary 919.336.5245
GoodallFamilyDentistry.com
ROBERTSON MILLPOND PRESERVE
Immersed in history, canopied by beauty
By Mandy Howard
Looking for something new to do with the family? Maybe something beyond the parks, theaters or museums? With just a short drive, you can be immersed in an 85-acre hidden nature refuge, floating down a blackwater cypress-gum swamp, shaded by a canopy of medium-aged to mature bald cypress trees.
Robertson Millpond Preserve, located at 6333 Robertson Pond Road in Wendell, presents an opportunity for visitors to be transported to a world completely apart from the traffic of the city and the distractions of day-today life.
Identified by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program as one of 47 significant natural areas in Wake County, the preserve has also been recognized as a Wetland Treasure by the Carolina Wetlands Association. What makes the area so unique is that it is rare to find a blackwater cypress-gum habitat this far northwest in North Carolina. Blackwater is caused by tannins from decaying vegetation leached into the slow-moving water, giving it a darkly stained appearance like tea or coffee. The unique combination of habitat and climate provides for an unforgettable journey through beautifully diverse flora and fauna.
Look for several coastal plain plants, shrubs and vines, including the coastal fetterbush and sweetspire. According to wake.gov, in the spring you can also see Virginia blue flag (a member of the iris family) blooming near the boat dock.
Julie Fleming is a Raleigh mom who first heard about the preserve from a friend who kayaks extensively in the area. Fleming and her husband took their three teens, ages 12–15, to discover this hidden gem. She says, “ The paddling trail is completely surrounded by cypress trees, giving it an almost otherworldly feel. The trees also provide wonderful shade for kayaking in the heat of the summer.”
The 1.15-mile paddling trail loop is marked by more than 70 buoys and allows for an approximate one-hour trip for canoeists and kayakers going at a relaxed pace. Fleming adds, “This is a beautiful, peaceful paddling trail that is not too
challenging and perfect for solo paddlers or groups.”
Peak season is from April 1–August 31, during which the preserve is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Fleming recommends checking the preserve’s website ahead of time, as it is a fully natural area and has the potential to be affected by weather.
While it’s a perfect place for kayaking, canoes and paddleboards, small trolling boats are also welcome and there are designated fishing areas teeming with sunfish, catfish and pickerel. There are no parking or launch fees if you bring your own vessel, and rental opportunities are available from Tar River Life with prior reservation. Life jackets are required for all visitors.
The preserve also offers something for history buffs in your family. The millpond was created when Buffalo Creek (named for the herds of buffalo that once watered there) was dammed nearly 200 years ago by William Avera, who operated a 600-acre farm and gristmill that served as an economic hub of the time. Today, visitors can still see the part earthen, part masonry dam as well as the foundation of the mill, both of which have been designated as historic landmarks.
There are no restrooms or drinking water accessible at the site. However, downtown Wendell, less than a 10-minute drive away, can help a family complete an unforgettable day with ice cream, a brewery, and restaurant options that are sure to please any palate.
FAST FACTS:
What: Robertson Millpond Preserve
Where: 6333 Robertson Pond Road, Wendell
When: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–sunset during peak season
Peak season: April 1–August 31
Equipment: BYO canoe, kayak or paddleboard, or check out Tar River Life for rentals
Know before you go: No restrooms or drinking water available on site
Bring your own kayak or rent one from Tar River Life with prior reservation.
Tannins from decaying vegetation give the water a darkly stained appearance.
Robertson Millpond Preserve offers relaxation among bald cypress trees.
LACROSSE FINDS ITS FOOTING
NICHE SPORT OFFERS TRIANGLE ATHLETES OPPORTUNITIES FROM A YOUNG AGE . BY KURT DUSTERBERG
When parents consider options for enrolling their children in sports, many start with traditional options such as soccer, T-ball and basketball.
One sport that often gets overlooked is lacrosse. For years, the game has been popular in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic, but North Carolina has yet to become a stronghold for young athletes.
“Most of them come to us having never caught or thrown a lacrosse ball,” says Matt Peterson, director of Oak City Lacrosse Academy in Raleigh. “There’s been steady growth.
The fact that it’s a sanctioned high school sport across the state has helped somewhat. It has appeal to many families.”
Peterson estimates there are close to 5,000 youth lacrosse players in the Triangle, with nearly half of those on varsity and JV high school teams. Many of the rest play in organizations like Oak City, a boys recreational program with two teams each in grades 1–8.
“My rec program really sets up a lot of athletes to go and have a successful high school lacrosse experience,” says Peterson, who played club lacrosse at the University of California,
Santa Barbara and later coached at North Carolina State University. “Almost all the kids who come through my program, if they play for a couple of years, they’re going to be competitive when it comes to tryouts for their high school teams.”
Girls lacrosse faces challenges, too. Dina Cavallo is the director of the Wake Forest Whippets, a rec program for grades 1–12.
“Soccer is a very popular sport, and it’s also a [high school] spring sport, so we’re competing,” Cavallo says. “And there’s not really an appetite for folks to start up recreational programs, where it’s low cost and local. We see kids starting to play club in first, second and third grade.”
But the two coaches make an easy case for giving the sport a try.
“It’s a very fast game, so speed is important,” says Cavallo, who played at Rutgers University. “Athletic skill is important, because it’s a heavy lacrosse ball and a stick. With lacrosse, the reality is it’s a little harder at the younger ages because catching and throwing skills—and cradling the ball as you’re moving down the field—it’s not easy to teach, and it’s not easy to learn.”
Peterson points out that size and strength are not necessarily barriers to taking up the game.
“It’s one of the most dynamic, athletic sports there is,” he says. “Height is not a huge advantage. It would be nice if you are 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, but we’ve got guys in our sport who are 5-foot-8 and weigh 145 pounds, and are impossible to guard.”
The sport’s low profile might offer a unique advantage for local players, girls in particular. Lacrosse players represent just a fraction of those who play more popular sports. Many Wake County high school programs are short on experienced players, opening a path for girls to continue their athletic careers—perhaps into college.
“I tell them, ‘Think that through,’” Cavallo says. “Because you might regret that in your sophomore or junior year of
high school when you realize there was more opportunity on the lacrosse side.”
Peterson believes an early start with lacrosse is helpful, not only for the athletes but for the high school programs. “The biggest limiting factor to having higher quality high school programs is that we need more kids to pick up a stick in third grade or fourth grade, not in ninth grade.”
Giving lacrosse a try early can open up opportunities, but patience helps.
“It’s such a great, fun sport,” Cavallo says. “If you can give it a couple of years—everyone doesn’t get good at it in year one— most people fall in love with it if they give it a chance.”
Girls lacrosse opens opportunities to broaden athletic careers.
Lacrosse is a fast-paced game played with two teams of 10 players.
Players use lacrosse sticks to carry, pass and shoot the ball into the opposing team’s goal.
Lacrosse originated with Native Americans and is the oldest team sport in America.
Playgrounds have long served as exciting places for children to unwind and explore. In recent years, the growing awareness of inclusive play has led to more playgrounds incorporating universal design so that all children— with and without disabilities—can have fun together. These accommodating environments enable kids to develop physically, cognitively, emotionally and socially, while also boosting their skills and confidence. Here are 15 inclusive playgrounds in the Triangle where young bodies can gain strength, minds can flourish, healthy emotions can develop and new friends can be made.
DOWNTOWN CARY PARK
327 S. Academy Street, Cary
The entirety of Downtown Cary Park is ADA-accessible, with built-in ramps at entrances and accessible furniture. The Nest play area has two play sections to accommodate various ages and abilities. The Nest also features a communication board that uses symbols to aid in the communication between nonspeaking or minimally speaking individuals. Visual indicators, tactile paving and stair treads in walkways assist those with vision limitations. The park has sensory kits available at Guest Services that include noise-canceling headphones, glasses with colored lenses, fidget toys and other items. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and water fountains are located throughout the park, and an adult changing table is available in the family bathroom at Guest Services. downtowncarypark.com
HOLDING PARK INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND
133 W. Owen Avenue, Wake Forest
Holding Park Inclusive Playground, which opened in March 2024, boasts playground equipment that caters to those with sensory issues, including tactile, visual, auditory, spatial and vestibular. Components include play panels, rockers, swings, spinners, slides and balance challenges. The Inclusive Orbit Spinner is a zero-entry merry-go-round, a Brava Universal Swing features swinging and rocking movements, and the calming Serenity Spot allows the expression of
stimming behaviors. A rubber surface terrain provides easy navigation for individuals with assistive devices, and wheelchair-friendly ramps seamlessly integrate into slides and other elements. A perimeter fence ensures added safety. wakeforestnc.gov/parks-recreation-culturalresources/parks-facilities/holding-park
KIDS TOGETHER PLAYGROUND
111 Thurston Drive, Cary
Kids Together Playground, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in June, has a wheelchair-accessible sand table and play structures, molded swings, sloped ramps and adult-sized changing tables. Three distinct play areas encourage exploration, including the enclosed preschool play area, where young visitors can enjoy bridges, tunnels, sand, water tables and rock-on-riders; the discovery play area, which entices kids to climb, tunnel, slide and get input from sensory play stations; and the active play area, which displays accessible sand-diggers, bridges, slides, swings, a Sway Fun Glider, musical components and climbing structures. Near the picnic shelter, the dragon structure KATAL (Kids Are Together At Last) beckons kids to climb, jump and run around its smooth green scales. kidstogethercary.org
MERRICK-MOORE PARK
632 N. Hoover Road, Durham
East Durham’s Merrick-Moore Park opened in summer 2022 and offers a playground with inclusive features and a sensory garden. Additional amenities include art sculptures and a walking trail. The 50-acre park is ADA-accessible. dprplaymore.org/facilities/facility/details/ merrick-moorepark-106
PLEASANT PARK
3400 Pleasant Plains Road, Apex Nature-inspired play takes center stage at Pleasant Park, which opened in November 2023. The park boasts a 1.5-acre Enchanted Forest with nine inclusive play villages. The whimsical design features an auditory area that promotes multigenerational play as a universal language; a slide transfer station and adaptive equipment for children
with physical and emotional disabilities; a 35-foot-tall structure offering multiple levels of physical and sensory play; and an accessible merry-go-round. The Splashlantis water play area—featuring accessible play components, water spray and splashing activities—is open daily in the summer.
apexnc.org/1163/pleasant-park
SASSAFRAS ALL CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND
3808 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh Sassafras All Children’s Playground, located at Laurel Hills Park in Raleigh, offers sensory-rich equipment like interactive panels, a Sway Fun Glider, swings and numerous climbing structures. The park features two 50-foot zip lines that allows kids of all abilities and strengths to cruise through the air safely and comfortably. The entire playground has wheelchair-accessible ramps and decks, as well as slides of various heights for toddlers and taller children. raleighnc.gov/parks-and-recreation/places/ laurel-hills-park
CHAPEL HILL PARKS
The Town of Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation recently began installing inclusive elements designed to improve children’s motor and cognitive skills in nine town parks: Burlington Park (1701 Ephesus Church Road), Cedar Falls Park (501 Weaver Dairy Road), Hargraves Community Park (216 N. Roberson Street), Homestead Park (100 Northern Park Drive), North Forest Hills Park (121 Collums Road), Oakwood Park (2 Berkley Road), Southern Community Park (1000 Sumac Road), Umstead Park (399 Umstead Drive) and Westwood Park (530 Dogwood Drive). The town is also developing a colorful, fully inclusive playground featuring high-quality Burke playground equipment, set to open at the Chapel Hill Community Center Park (120 S. Estes Drive) in 2025. townofchapelhill.org/home/components/news news/19390/4048
NAVIGATING
COLLEGE VISITS:
KEY QUESTIONS FOR A MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCE
BY ALYSE LEVINE, M.S. E d.
CARRBORO ANNUAL KITE FLY
March 9, 1–3 p.m.
Hank Anderson Park
302 NC Hwy 54 West, Carrboro
Celebrate National Kite Month a couple of weeks early by flying a kite. Take a kite to the park and help fill the skies with color. A few kites will be available for those without one. carrbororec.org
CHALK OF THE TOWN
March 15, 1:30–4:30 p.m.
300 W. Ballentine Street, Holly Springs
Shop for creations from local artisans as live music fills the air and chalk artists adorn the sidewalks of the Holly Springs Cultural Center with creative works. hollyspringsnc.gov
ART IN BLOOM
March 19–23
North Carolina Museum of Art 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh
This five-day museum fundraiser highlights the stunning creativity of floral designers from across the state and beyond who interpret works of art in the People’s Collection. Purchase tickets online: $40 for museum members, $50 for nonmembers, and free for ages 6 and younger. ncartmuseum.org/artinbloom
WAKE FOREST COMIC BOOK & TOY EXPO
March 22, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Flaherty Park Community Center
1226 N. White Street, Wake Forest
Take the family to celebrate the fantastical world of vintage comics and action figures. Shop vendors of pop culture nostalgia and superheroes of yesteryear. Admission is free. wakeforestnc.gov
FEST IN THE WEST
April 5, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Mills School Park
425 Mills Park Drive, Cary
Western Cary’s renowned family festival features two entertainment stages, a petting zoo, juggling and stilt walkers, remote-controlled racing, and multicultural food and beverage vendors. festinthewest.com
PIMENTO CHEESE FESTIVAL
April 12, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Downtown Cary Park
327 S. Academy Street, Cary
Join more than 50 food vendors to savor the flavor of pimento cheese–infused dishes, including pimento cheese empanadas, egg rolls and ice cream. Live performances and trivia round out the event. downtowncarypark.com
PEEPS IN THE PARK
April 17, 6–8 p.m.
Morrisville Community Park
1520 Morrisville Parkway, Morrisville
Celebrate spring by searching for hidden marshmallow Peeps throughout the park and earn a prize. The event also features a petting zoo, games, face painting, food trucks and fun surprises. morrisvillenc.gov
CHILDREN’S DAY FESTIVAL
April 19, 1–7 p.m
Downtown Cary Park
327 S. Academy Street, Cary
Discover the colorful mosaic of cultures in Cary through the eyes of children. Enjoy stage performances, make-and-take international crafts, food vendors, face painting and more.
downtowncarypark.com
FESTIVAL OF LEGENDS
April 26, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; April 27, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park 2401 Grigsby Avenue, Holly Springs
Mythical monsters, proud knights, fairytale creatures and fantasy-inspired vendors fill Sugg Farm at this enchanted festival. Tickets are $15 online, $20 at the gate. Children 12 and younger are admitted for free with a paying adult. festivaloflegends.com
RAULSTON BLOOMS!
April 26, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
JC Raulston Arboretum 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh
Experience the garden in all its vernal glory while enjoying food trucks (including North Carolina State University’s Howling Cow ice cream), craft vendors and fun activities. View the entries in the 23rd Annual Birdhouse Competition and vote for your favorite. Admission is free. jcra.ncsu.edu
MAGICAL HILL FESTIVAL
April 26, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Chapel Hill Community Center 120 S. Estes Drive, Chapel Hill
Take the family for a magical day of art, adventure and nature. Activities include fairy hair, fortune telling, face painting, food trucks and more. Entries from a fairy house contest will also be on display. townofchapelhill.org
DURHAM EARTH DAY FESTIVAL
April 27, noon–5 p.m.
Durham Central Park
501 Foster Street, Durham Honor Mother Nature by learning how to care for the environment. Enjoy educational resources, hands-on activities, live performances, vendors, food trucks and more.
dprplaymore.org
“SESAME STREET LIVE”
April 27, 2 p.m.
Durham Performing Arts Center
123 Vivian Street, Durham
Play alongside your favorite furry friends—Elmo, Abby Cadabby and Cookie Monster—all while you follow Elmo’s puppy, Tango, in a game of hide-and-seek. Dance to your favorite “Sesame Street” songs. Purchase tickets online.
dpacnc.com
Be sure to check the websites for these events before you head out to ensure they are still taking place.
COME HUNGRY
New treats to taste, opportunities to learn and recipes to try
TRY
Blueberry Banana Smoothie
Smoothies are a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They don’t make a mess, they’re easy to assemble and they’re healthier than most options.
Ingredients
• 1 cup of 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk
• 1 medium banana
• ½ cup frozen unsweetened blueberries
• ¼ cup instant plain oatmeal
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Dash of sea s alt
DIRECTIONS
Place the first six ingredients in a blender; cover and blend until smooth. Pour into two chilled glasses. Sprinkle with sea salt. Serve immediately. Frozen blueberries work better than fresh for a thicker consistency. If you use fresh ones, consider using a little less milk.
Kids can choose a traditional cheeseburger, mac and cheese or grilled cheese—but fried chicken fingers are also on the menu, along with a grilled chicken breast. For those who have developed a taste for fish, Relish offers fried or grilled cod. The meal comes with a farm-fresh side and a small drink.
Raddish, an online cooking site for kids, began in 2006 when middle school teacher Samantha Barnes began teaching kids’ cooking classes and camps in California.
Today, Raddish (raddishkids.com) brings culinary experiences to family kitchens everywhere. The business offers cooking and baking kits that highlight easy-to-prepare recipes with illustrated steps, often shipped with a cooking or baking tool. One kit offers 12 recipes that include pumpkin waffles, zucchini muffins and Swedish pancakes. Of course, there are plenty of delicious recipes online, all of them geared toward kids. Each recipe has a manageable number of ingredients and a list of tools needed for the job. Best of all, everyone in the family will enjoy treats like deviled eggs, homemade applesauce and maple cornbread.
Squid’s
1201 Fordham Boulevard, Chapel Hill squidsrestaurant.com
Parents might lean toward seafood selections, but kids can choose a cheeseburger or beef hot dog. Other items include fried chicken fingers, fried popcorn shrimp and fried/broiled tilapia fingers. Then there’s the popular standby: pasta with marinara sauce or butter.
BB’s Crispy Chicken
1147 Parkside Main Street, Cary bbscrispychicken.com
The Lil’ BBites menu serves two handbreaded tenders with a choice of hand-cut fries, tots or fresh fruit, a housemade sauce, and a juice box or fountain drink. Looking for a gluten-free option? Enjoy four gluten-free, panko-breaded chicken nuggets with the same options. Adventurous kids might go for a shareable like bacon cheddar totchos, a combination of tots and nachos.
FOR LOVE OF THE GAME
Allison Ryan traveled across the country for softball practice. Her commitment will pay off when she joins the UNC Tar Heels.
Allison Ryan began playing soccer in the Seattle area at age 3, but perhaps it was inevitable that she would change sports. Her mother, Vicki, had played softball at Central Washington University, so Allison moved to the diamond by age 8.
“I started on the rec ball team, and most of the girls were better than me,” Ryan said. “I never played much. I said, ‘Mom, I want to be better. I want to play.’”
Her mother helped coach Ryan’s team when she began playing travel ball, and before long, the sport had captured her heart. “As much as I enjoyed playing soccer, I didn’t love it like I loved softball,” she says.
Allison’s game reached a new level, however, when her family moved to North Carolina. But before they could settle in permanently in the
Triangle, the middle infielder landed on the Nationals Batts/Garner showcase team—and she knew that softball couldn’t wait.
“It was my first year of 14U, and I would fly back and forth from Washington for weekend practices once a month,” Ryan says. “The level of play on the East Coast is so much better than Washington. I absolutely loved the team I was on in Washington; however, they weren’t going to get me where I wanted to go. The team I’m on now obviously did.”
Now a junior at Wakefield High School, Ryan has indeed made the best of playing against top competition. She has earned a scholarship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
“Carolina makes me feel really wanted,” she says. “I didn’t make the decision immediately on my visit, because I’ve always been a very logical person. I don’t make a lot of impulsive decisions. But I just fell in love with the school on my visit. I love the program and the coaches there, and it’s a beautiful campus.”
Ryan will be well-prepared for the academic rigor when she arrives. She carries a 4.4 GPA and excels in math and science. “Academics are really important to me,” she says. “I just expect it of myself.”
As for softball, she has spent her developmental years playing second base and shortstop, relying on her range to help her succeed. At the plate, she hit .474 with her 16U team last fall—but don’t expect her to pound balls over the fence. “I don’t hit a lot of home runs,” Ryan says. “I hit line drives, doubles. But I hit the ball harder than somebody with my body type should.”
Playing high-level softball comes with its challenges. Success at the plate can come and go, sometimes at the same weekend tournament.
“Sometimes you can do everything right and still fail. You have to have confidence, and you have to trust yourself,” she says. “But I’m a very competitive person. With softball, you get out of it what you put into it.”
Ryan will certainly put what she has into the Tar Heels program.
“I just want to go out there and give everything I have, and hopefully earn a starting spot,” she says.
Do you know a Good Sport who deserves recognition in our next issue? Email editor@trianglefamilymag.com to share your news.
cel·e·brate /´sel brãt/
To acknowledge a significant day or event with a social gathering or enjoyable activity.
Swathi (8) and Sathwik (3) enjoy the day celebrating Downtown Cary Park’s first birthday.
P HOTO COURTESY OF SINDHUJA VENKATASUBRAMANIAN
“He who would understand the nature of true holiness must know that the Christian is a ‘man of war.’ If we would be holy, we must fight!” JC Ryle, 1877
All male, 6th–12th. Focused. Joyful. Effective. Highly selective. We are a mission-led community that is willing to fight for Biblical manhood!
