Over the past few weeks, we have had some interesting discussions in our Photocity class at Crawford High School. AjA students have been reflecting on what their socializing opportunities are in the City Heights community. Students shared their favorite things to do in their free time and most of their answers revolved around activities outside the City Heights community – many of the kids discussed their adventures going to Balboa Park and how convenient public transportation is to get around.
Few of them could offer us examples of fun things they do on a regular basis in their own neighborhood, ao we asked the students: “If a newspaper reporter wrote an article about how to improve City Heights, what would you tell them you wanted?”
Evelin, 14, had creative and innovative responses.
“This photo represents people coming together, helping you out, enjoying each other’s company.” -Evelin
“In order for kids to have healthier socializing options outside of school, I want an arcade,” she said.
According to Evelin, most kids she knows spend their free time in City Heights playing video games at home or hanging out in unsupervised areas. Evelin said she feels arcades would be a good socializing opportunity because, “it’s safer for kids because there is supervision. Also in arcades you can meet new people other then being home and playing video games alone.” Another important point Evelin raises is that “an arcade…can attract more people from other communities.” Instead of seeing City Heights kids go to other neighborhoods to have fun Evelin wants to make City Heights appealing to non-residents and residents alike.
