Dear Editor:
I would like to comment on “Richmond County teens need a place of their own,” an article from Richmond Senior High School senior Maggie McMillan (Dec. 14, 2008).
Yes Maggie, you are correct, Richmond County needs a center where teens can socialize. You mentioned friends “hanging out” at Wal-Mart. In a lot of communities (especially rural) Wal-Mart is a popular retreat for today’s youth ... but so commercialized.
Yes, a “teen center” (not just another game room) is needed in this area. Maybe, along with other concerned teens/adults, you could form a committee to discuss such a possibility as a teen center. In today’s society there are many grants available (Cole Foundation, Golden LEAF, etc.). Please also consider a corporate sponsor (for example, Progress Energy Richmond County Teen Center, First Health of the Carolinas Richmond County Teen Center, etc.). You must also seek donations from the private sector. Your committee could approach such corporations with this idea.
This center could include a game/T.V./media room, a food court and a mini-museum (featuring exhibits from current/former Richmond County teens who achieved success). This may inspire others. The center could include exhibits featuring teen art, stories and a meeting room for teens to discuss ideas about their neighborhoods, schools, careers or “just to hang out.”
This center needs to be in the “center” of Richmond County, where “all teens” can enjoy it ... not just a select few. Remember, if you create a rotten place, rotten people will be there! Remember to be patient and committed.
Good luck.
Joey Sellers
Hamlet
I realize not everyone has a picture perfect family. No one every said a good relationship wasn't hard work though. Like the old saying goes, Blood is thicker than water.
Here's to good friends.
Our Teen Dances had adult supervision and we respected them. We also respected each other. But if there was a fight or problem, we had a Teen Council that would hear both sides of the issue and then determine punishment, like cleaning the teen center, for the ones who started the trouble. They also had to shake hands in front of the entire membership of the center.
It was great while it lasted but the only constant in life is change. And times changed, with Vietnam, growing up, etc. Maybe it is time for some of the good old days to come back again. But make sure that people understand the rules and live by them.