Nothing to do and nowhere to go

EDITOR,

Patterson is a small town with very little to do and even fewer places to go. The teen center is a place for kids to go to so their parents can feel comfortable while they run errands or are out at work. They are constantly supervised and are provided with snacks and entertainment.

Teens can also come to get help with their homework and studies. The teen center also keeps teens out of the streets and out of trouble, away from gang associations or violence.

The first time I went to the teen center, I thought that it would be really boring, but once more people started to come and socialize, I started to realize it was not such a bad place. It is a place to have a snack, kick back and relax with friends.

Parents do not have to worry that their children are getting into something wrong. This is a drug-free and alcohol-free environment and a nonviolent place. The teen center also helps teens find jobs and helps them get referred to other jobs. The teen center is a fun and safe place to be.

— A.T. and J.E., 11th and 12th grade, Patterson High School

Patterson needs more amenities for families

EDITOR,

As Patterson grows, there’s little to do for the increased population. There are some fun things to do for adults, teens or children. However, even though there are different things for people of different age groups, there isn’t really much for people to do together.

OK, maybe a few things — you can go to the public pool or skate at Skate the Circle night as a family, but both of those things are only for the summer. There’s nothing consistent for families.

The city should think of ways to make Patterson a more family-friendly place. Family-friendly means that the event or place in question should have something that appeals to all ages and agrees with a family’s budget.

Don’t you think you would be happier if you didn’t have to commute just to have quality family time?

— Isaiah Davis, eighth grade, Creekside Middle School