We need a youth center in Mountain Home

Dear editor:

A couple of months ago I read an article, written by a young man who expressed the need for the new youth center. He complained of the general lack of things for kids to do in Mountain Home. Also, that the current youth center's location, may have contributed to him becoming a smoker. Having grown up in Mountain Home myself, and now a father, I can fully understand the need for more youth activities.

I also chose many a wrong road that led to the paths of addictions. "It was head to the desert and have a party."

Today, having been free of all my addictions for almost two years, including tobacco, I've learned that I can't blame any one thing, but myself, my choices or my consequences.

Clearly, however, I know more activities will help to lead kids to better choices. I have a very strong desire to do all that I can to help with this.

I recently spoke with Theresa Bowman, who I highly commend for her hard work all these years for the youth center, and for what she's doing now to raise money for a new one with a roller rink.

You've probably seen the cans around town, asking everyone for a $5 donation.

Thus far nowhere near enough people have done this, so with her blessing I have created the youth center contractors challenge. A simple plan -- challenging all contractors to a labor-only donation of their trade and skill.

Let's help make this dream a reality! We built the new jail, now we need to build things to help keep our youth out of it.

A pledge sheet will be available at the "Mulberry Place" gift store located at 1140 Airbase Road. It's preferred that contractors pledging be licensed and insured. Also, references may be required.

Also, it is required that the contractor have a genuine unselfish desire to help with our youth and does not expect to gain monetarily for their good deeds.

As for myself, I am a floor covering contractor with 22 years experience and do hereby pledge my services and references. Day or night, January or June, I also ask that everyone who hasn't donated please do so. We can't afford not to.

Ozzie J. Streeter