Event to raise money for Sassafras Playground

A group plans to tear down the playground at Laurel Hills Park to make way for a bigger and better one. But first they need to raise some money.

Posted 1:05 a.m. Mar 28, 2010 — Updated 8:25 p.m. Apr 17, 2010

Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

All Children's Playground at Laurel Hills Park in Raleigh opened nearly 20 years ago with the help of hundreds of volunteers from across the community.

The aim was to build a playground for all children, including the disabled. And for the last two decades the spot with its giant wooden castle-like structure has been a favorite of kids and parents.

But the playground, which sits off Edwards Mill Road not too far from Crabtree Valley Mall, has seen better days. A few years ago, about a quarter of it was destroyed by fire. And the old wooden structure isn't up to today's standards.

Enter the Frankie Lemmon Foundation and other partners, who are working to raze the old playground and build something even better. The project called Sassafras All Children's Playground is in the fundraising stage right now. The goal is to raise at least $450,000. Construction is scheduled to take place in about a year.

On April 10, a family event is being planned at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary to help raise money for the project. It will feature the inspirational story of Dick and Rick Hoyt, a father and son team that has competed in marathons and triathlons for more than 30 years. Dick has pushed and pulled his son, who cannot walk or talk, through over 900 races. The event also features the band Crush, along with activities for the kids.

Doors open at 6 p.m. The program starts at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $15 for lawn tickets. Kids under 16 get complimentary lawn seats. Click here for details.

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