Towne: Teenagers want more from businesses, help us support you

Chris Towne (Submitted image)

I was born and raised in Fountain Hills and have lived here for the past 18 years. I care deeply for this town. This town has always managed to put on amazing events that have created a childhood I can never forget.

However, as I have gotten older, I see a lack of anything for teenagers to do in town. Once there was a bowling alley, but that’s long gone. Whenever any of the kids at my school go off campus for lunch, half of them come with out-of-town food chain items. Moreover, many kids talk about going to the movies, to the mall, or to any type of store not in our town, but in Scottsdale or down more in the urban metropolitan area.

All of this has made me think about the lack of opportunities there are for teenagers in my town, specifically places to hang out. This also contributes to why our school district’s student population is decreasing. Why would any kid want to stay in town if the town and its businesses don’t understand or value their needs?

Now, I can’t stand in front of the mic and tell people what to do. Instead, I am opting to challenge the businesses of and the Town of Fountain Hills. I challenge you to innovate new ways to bring teens closer to the community.

One idea, especially for restaurants, is to make deals once sporting events end. Buy one slice of pizza, get the next free? Pack us in like sardines! Movie events in the park could bring in teens by the dozens. I challenge someone to bring in an arcade. I challenge someone to bring back the old bowling alley.

Bring something to the table that teenagers can come to and spend time at!

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.