CENTER FOR YOUTH ACTIVITIES BEING SOUGHT

It's a common complaint of teen-agers: There's nothing to do. For some, the lack of activity may lead to vandalism and other petty crimes as a way to beat the boredom. But it doesn't have to be that way.

One couple is working to develop a place in Cape Girardeau where young people 12 to 19 can safely gather to socialize.

It is a concept worth exploring.

Dan and Nora Ross want to open a center for youths called Planet X-Treme. It would have everything from a roller-hockey arena to activity courts to a sound studio for teen-led bands. They are eying the former Wolohan Lumber building. It would be a good choice. The idle 75,000-square-feet of vacant space is close to both the junior high and high schools. That means students wouldn't have to go far for lunch or after-school activities.

But it won't be cheap.

The Planet X-Treme organizers say it could cost up to $2 million, although that figure could be significantly reduced through donations of labor, equipment and supplies. The organizers are seeking not-for-profit status for the center. They have also applied for a state program that would allow 50 percent tax credits for companies making charitable donations to the project. That certainly would make business donations much more appealing.

To pull off such a major project would take an organized effort from government, school, civic and church organizations. Teen-agers should also be involved in the project from the start. What kinds of activities would they support? If young people can be involved and motivated from the get-go, the project may quickly gain momentum in the community.