Durham Central Park event photos Although the park is still under development, we have already begun conducting events that will provide beneficial recreation and exercise for Durham residents. These events also help to build a sense of community and raise public awareness concerning the park. Many of the events were started under an active living project that was generously funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Where possible, the events are being continued on an annual basis. Photos from selected events and volunteer workdays are included on this page. Click a thumbnail below to view the full-size photo. Volunteer Cleanup Day (May 15, 1999) Durham Central Park provides the perfect opportunity for people to get involved with creating a better community. These photos show scenes from the first of many volunteer workdays at the park.   African American Dance Ensemble Workshops Funding from The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation supported a series of workshops by the African American Dance Ensemble. The AADE, a homegrown dance team with an international reputation, used colorful costumes and exciting rhythms to get everyone moving!   Puzzlehunt 2001 2001   The annual Puzzlehunt, presented by Manbites Dog Theater, is aptly described as a "brain-bending event of semi-epic proportions." This unique event challenges the participants to find clues that are hidden in performances and other unlikely places. 2003 2003  2003 October 2001 - Community Picnic  This event was sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The objective was to get people to walk to the park after Sunday services at nearby churches, fellowships, and synagogues. Participants enjoyed live music, sandwiches, and family activities. December 2001 Clean-Up Day A group of enthusiastic volunteers, inspired by the clearing and grading of the Great Lawn in the fall of 2001, removed trash from the nearby creek channel and cleared some of the heavy undergrowth in the wooded area at the corner of Hunt and Foster Streets.

Children's Independence Day Parade 2001 2002 The Children's Independence Day Parade is an annual event that was initiated in 2001 using grant funds from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. This event encourages children and their parents to be active on the July 4 holiday. Kids bring their favorite non-motorized conveyances (bikes, scoooters, wagons, etc) and decorate them patriotically with materials provided by the Scrap Exchange. Then, following a police escort, the children parade around the block and enjoy frozen treats at the finish line. Patriotic music is provided by musicians from the Durham Symphony. 2002 2003 2003 2004 2004         Bark in the Park 2002 2002 Bark in the Park was initiated in 2002 using grant funds from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. This fast-paced and exciting event features many ways to be active with a dog. Activities include flyball and agility demonstrations and also a variety of contests. In 2003 the event was renamed Benefit Bark in Central Park to emphasize the charitable aspects of the event and also its location. Independent Animal Rescue is now a co-beneficiary of the benefit. Sponsors and participants for 2003 are listed below. 2003 2003 2004 2004

Bull City Chili Challenge... with a side of Salsa (August 2004)
2004	2004	2004

Nature Trail Workdays
2002	2002	Nature trail construction was initiated in 2002 using grant funds from the North Carolina Adopt-A-Trail program. Our dedicated volunteers have attended workdays nearly every month during 2003 when the weather permitted in order to help clear underbrush, install a gravel pathway with metal edges, and plant bulbs, flowers, and bushes.
2002

Tree Planting Ceremony - NC Coalition Against Domestic Violence
	On October 4, 2002, the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence planted a memorial tree in the park's nature trail area for the women, men, and children murdered due to domestic violence in North Carolina. Advocates from across the state gathered to participate in a domestic violence workshop and to plant the tree in memory of the victims.
	In October, 2004, the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence installed an engraved marker at the base of the tree. The beautiful new marker, which was dedicated at a ceremony, on October 2, features a flying crane and also the following inscription: In Memory of lives taken, With hope for Peace and Justice.

Party in the Park (May 2003)
The Party in the Park was initiated in 2003 as a celebration of The Independent Weekly's 20th anniversary.

Getting a Jump on Easter" Egg Hunt (2004)
Active games (like the 3-legged race) were a big hit at the egg hunt on April 3, 2004.		Wool E. Bull drew many admiring fans at the egg hunt on April 3, 2004.

Spring Fling! Fashion Show Luncheon (2004)
		Four of our board members were stylish models at our Spring Fling! Fashion Show Luncheon: County Commissioner Mary D. Jacobs, County Commissioner Becky Heron, The Independent Weekly's Publisher Sioux Watson, and architect Ellen Cassilly.

Party in the Park (2004)
The Party in the Park was initiated in 2003 as a celebration of The Independent Weekly's 20th anniversary.