By Hadassah Winters
The lack of activities for young people in Port Angeles has always been a hot topic, and the subject of many complaints.
According to Revitalize Port Angeles, a group of volunteers active in the community, many students have been complaining there is nothing to do for people who don’t want to party on the weekends.
There are lots of opportunities to go hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, but after a long day of textbooks and lectures, college students just need somewhere to hang out and wind down.
While plans for a place are in the beginning stages, some people are taking measures to create temporary solutions for the time being. There are several Port Angeles business owners willing to host an occasional “late night” for teenagers in an effort to better serve the community.
Leslie Robertson, a member of the Revitalize Port Angeles group, says that all the young people are “desperate for things to do” and she, along with many other citizens, is determined to find a solution.
“They really want a safe place to hang out, where they could maybe buy a coffee or a snack, and listen to music.
“I asked some teenagers if they thought it was possible to create a place that followed the rules that adults would need, but that would still be a cool place to go, and they said ‘absolutely.’”
Brad and Tara Lilley, owners of Sweet and Salty, a downtown frozen yogurt shop and coffee bar, were enthusiastic about the idea of providing a safe hang out on late weekend nights.
“We’re open until nine on Fridays and Saturdays,” said Brad Lilley, “I love coming down here at night just to chill. Kick back, read a book, get on the WiFi, eat some fro-yo. I can see how this place would appeal to teenagers.”
“We’ll probably be open later than 9 p.m. on weekend nights pretty soon,” said Tara Lilley. “We already give a student discount to PC students and we’d love for them to feel free to hang out here.”
Sweet and Salty may be part of the solution for a fun and safe hangout.
Another possible hangout hotspot is Bada Bean, a coffee shop on East First Street. The owner, Haley Ray, offered to sponsor an occasional late night while Revitalize continues to develop a long-term plan.
“I think it’s a great way to help out and give back to the community,” Ray said. “Maybe we’ll do a student discount and add some specials on those nights or something. I feel like it’ll be fun.”
For college students who are interested, Robertson said all are welcome to attend the Revitalize meeting at 6:30 p.m., March 10, at 123 East 1st Street, Suite 1A, across from Bella Italia. For more information, contact the group at its Facebook page, Revitalize Port Angeles.