Youth Board calls for ‘cash mobs,’ tennis day, shoe drive, dodgeball

The Oak Ridge Youth Advisory Board has set its annual goals, calling for the creation of “cash mobs” to encourage teens to shop at local stores, a tennis play day, a shoe drive, disc golf event, and dodgeball tournament.

The YAB also voted to continue some of its most popular events, including Graduation Celebration, freshman-sophomore dance, summer jobs and career fair, Battle of the Teen Bands, and Breakfast with Santa.

“The discussion on goals is the most important discussion that we will have during the year,” said city staff liaison Matt Reedy. “Each YAB member was given a chance to share an idea or dream for Oak Ridge and each of them accept responsibility for at least one program or event during the year. Board members will learn through policy discussions, volunteering, event planning, and partnership building, which will be a benefit to them through college and in life.”

The new YAB attended their first meeting of the 2012-2013 term early in August and elected officers. YAB member Aaron Chasan, an ORHS senior now serving his fourth term, was elected YAB chairman. Patrick Williams was elected vice-chair, senior Hannah Magill was elected secretary, and Ross Landenberger was elected treasurer.

The YAB was created in 1991, and it serves as a liaison between the Oak Ridge City Council and the youth of the community. In the 21 years since its inception, the YAB has offered input on city issues and also provided activities and programs that enhance the lives of young people in Oak Ridge, the press release said.

Community Resource Officer Daniel McFee and School Resource Officer Sherry Selby attended a recent YAB meeting to discuss the continued partnership between the YAB and the ORPD. In 2012, the YAB assisted with the creation of the Criminal Justice Club at ORHS and helped with the new Junior Police Academy.

YAB meetings are held twice a month on Wednesday afternoons at the Oak Ridge Civic Center and are open to the public. Board members serve a one-year term of office and must re-apply in May of each year. If you have questions about the YAB, contact Reedy at (865) 425-3442 or visit the Oak Ridge Recreation and Parks Department website at www.orrecparks.org.

Caption for photo above—Pictured from left back row: Aaron Chasan, Shelby Chambers, Hannah Magill, Kelsey Warmbrod, Patrick Williams, Peter Magill, and Ross Landenberger. Front row: Dalyssa Webb, Lauren Collier, Laura Skipper, Monil Mehta, Lara de Almeida, Ricky Goyette, Hannah Craig, and Shane Harris. Not pictured: Caroline Bradshaw.