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closeOne of Americans’ celebrated freedoms is stated in the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights: “the right of the people to peaceably assemble and petition government…”
About 50 teens rallied at last week’s Morro Bay City Council meeting. Impassioned advocates — overcoming their fears of public speaking — requested their teen center be saved from the budget chopping block. Their friends respectfully waved signs noting support after each presentation.
After the public hearing closed, they realized a lesson most American adults have yet to learn.
By exercising their right to petition they were, indeed, the people with the power to influence Morro Bay’s elected officials’ decision by speaking their minds insightfully, with passion and reasonable testimony. Rockies is safe — this year.
The teens noted their center is a place to meet friends; build trust with their parents, who knew where they were; and keep away from mischief and toxic substances.
Kira Andrews said, “I was a loner. Now I have friends. The workers are incredibly kind.”
Frankie VanHooser, Teen Program Coordinator, is the go-to staff member the teens consider a “parent” away from home. “I’ll ask about their day ... and listen,” he said.
Most persuasive of all was Jacob Bates: “I’m autistic. I’ve been bullied all my life, but I’m welcomed and accepted here.”
His mother, Gena, explained, “In San Luis Obispo it has been tough for him, but on his birthday he had 15 friends for his party. I’m moving my kids here because of this center.”
Open afternoons Monday through Saturday during the summer and before and after school during the academic year, Rockies is free to seventh-graders through high school teens.
It offers the latest in electronic games, monitored computer access, pool and foosball, books to read and unique, supervised programs.
Former Mayor Rodger Anderson reminded the council it was the community’s dream to get the kids off the street into a safe haven.
Recreation Director Joe Woods and Supervisor Heather Salyer-Firth explained that a significant grant from telecom firm MCI and positive real estate transactions have funded the Rockies facility, adjacent to Morro Bay High School since 2001.
Woods is overwhelmed by the groundswell of support for a Friends of Rockies group to ensure the youth will continue to have a safe place to “hang” and make lifelong friends and positive decisions.
Power to the youthful people! You are ready to lead tomorrow.
Reach Judy Salamacha at 801-1422 or jsalamacha@yahoo.com.
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