Independent readers had an idea, and City Hall responded. Now the call goes out: send pies, and names of teens who’re making New Haven better.
The idea — for a “pizza party on the Green” celebrating successful kids — came from reader “KenCT” in response to this July 31 article. The article told the story of Norman Boone and other at-risk teens — i.e., troublemakers — who’ve been steered straight over the past year by the new Street Outreach Workers program.
KenCT was dismayed at some of the negative reactions readers posted to the article, dumping on kids.
“Why is it necessary to turn this upbeat article into a series of whining rants about police racism and bicycling on sidewalks?
“In my bike rides around the city, occasionally on a sidewalk, I must confess, I see kids erasing graffitti, watering the downtown planters which are such a great addition to our streetscape, as well as those working in libraries and elsewhere,” Ken CT wrote.
“What about an end-of-summer pizza party on the Green to support these young people, possibly sponsored by the Independent? Though my financial resources are limited, I’d gladly kick in a couple of bucks to recognize kids who make a positive contribution to our city.”
His comment struck a note with readers such as “Nan,” “Bill,” and “James.” They offered to kick in some money.
The idea struck a chord with City Hall’s Department of Youth, too. It immediately ran with the idea. The office has organized a celebration/ pizza party to recognize “youth [who] have proven their commitment to making a difference, both in their lives and the lives of their community members.. [who] through recreational, educational, and employment opportunities … have made great strides in improving themselves and their communities.”
The party, which the Independent is cosponsoring (also in response to reader suggestions) takes place on the Green next Thursday, Aug. 14, from noon to 2 p.m.
Now the event’s City Hall organizers need help — in the form of pie, and names.
City Youth Department chief Che Dawson is asking not-for-profits to nominate up to five young people who’ve made a difference through their organizations. Get the form here, fill it out, and mail or fax it to Dawson.
Dawson and his organizers also need more of the fuel that keeps New Haven running pizza. So far eight pizzerias have promised to donate a total of 26 pies. The list: Planet Pizza, 2 large pizzas; Downtown Pizza, 5 large pizzas; Abaté Pizza and Seafood, 6 large pizzas; Naples Pizza, 5 large pizzas; Yorkside Pizza, 1 large pizza; Pizza House, 2 large pizzas; Primo Pizza, 3 large pizzas; Aladdin Crown Pizza, 2 large pizzas.
To donate pies, or to volunteer to help out with the event or donate money, contact Dawson’s office at 946‑7909.