As Holt shared these stories of our local patriots and reflected on her own ancestor William Goodwin’s connection to the war, she was reminded of the significant role North Carolina played in the American Revolution.
“So many from here fought in some of the most consequential battles of both the northern and southern campaigns. Their efforts were essential to securing our freedom from Great Britain. I am also reminded of the remarkable intersections between my own life and the life of my patriot ancestor,” she said.
Of the many intersections shared by Holt, one that stood out to this writer was the fact that in 2014, after 48 years of service, she retired from the Navy.
Holt’s lengthy Navy career was devoted to preserving American freedoms. For her service, she received the Navy’s highest civilian honor, the Navy Distinguished Civilian Service Medal and was named a “Today’s Daughter” by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
“Perhaps my zeal to serve and protect the liberties won during the American Revolution is part of my inheritance — a legacy from William. Perhaps I carry his genes for service to our nation,” Holt noted.
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, we celebrate our Apex neighbors who came before us and left behind a local legacy of independence. Apex, like America, is the land of the free and the home of the brave.
KidsTowne Playground Wants Community Members to Help Write Next Chapter
For over 25 years, KidsTowne Playground at Kelly Road Park has been a cornerstone of childhood in Apex. Built by the hands of our own community in 1999, the iconic wooden structure weathered decades of play, laughter, and cherished moments. However, as the wooden beams show their age, the Town of Apex is beginning to ask, “What does the future of play look like at KidsTowne Playground?” as they start writing the next chapter—and they need your help!
The KidsTowne Playground & Shelter Restroom Renovation project, led by the Apex Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department, is more than just a replacement of equipment. It is a mission to honor the park’s unique legacy while creating a modern, inclusive, and accessible space for the next generation of Apex families.
Honoring the Legacy
Many of the playground’s wooden features that still stand today (castles, trains, spaceships, and boats) were inspired by ideas provided at public meetings in local schools, where kids shared what they wanted to see in this park. With the vision established, KidsTowne was then built through a labor of community love, constructed through a massive effort that brought together over 2,000 volunteers to complete the build in five days.
Because of this deep history, the town has plans to honor the sentimental value of the site. As plans are drafted, the project team is looking for creative ways to display memories and maintain the “community-built” spirit that made this playground a destination in the first place.
The Path to the Next Chapter
While the current structure is nearing the end of its functional life, the renovation aims to introduce features that the community of 1999 could only have dreamed of:
Focus on Accessibility: Transitioning from traditional designs to an inclusive play space where children of all abilities can play side-by-side.
Modern Safety & Maintenance: Using high-quality materials that reduce the need for constant repairs while ensuring a safer environment.
Enhanced Amenities: Making critical updates to the shelter and restrooms to improve the overall park experience for community members.
How You Can Shape the Future of Play
Community input is the heart of this project. The town has launched a six-month engagement process to ensure the new design reflects the needs of KidsTowne visitors. An online survey is available now through July 31 at www.apexnc.org/KidsTowne.
Beyond the online survey, you can also weigh in in person at the Playground Open House on July 18 at Kelly Road Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Construction is slated to begin in late 2027, with a grand reopening targeted for spring 2028.
Stay Informed Throughout the Project
Help define what “play” looks like in the Peak. Whether you were part of the original build, currently play at KidsTowne, or envision future playtimes with your family, your perspective matters!
Project Page: Visit www.apexnc.org/KidsTowne (or scan the QR code, right) to take the survey, view the site history, and read project updates.
Stay Informed: Subscribe on the project page to receive updates on concept designs and future public meetings.
