While driving to work this morning, I noticed that a car for sale at a dealership that I pass on the way had a price marked on it of $28,000+, and I thought to myself, "That's five houses in Homewood."
Or more -- this week's report from RealSTATs lists the following sales in the 13th Ward:
7048 Fletcher Way, for $1,500
7015 Mt. Vernon St., for $2,851, by sheriff's deed.
From the Inbox
Although I am now 25, I know how hard it is to find a job when you are still a teenager. I am recommending what I did for two consecutive summers: telemaketing. Most of the agencies in Pittsburgh are in Greentree or Monroeville (which is on the busline). After commission, most people generally make about $10/hr. Some of the folks I worked with averaged nearly $20. This is much better than what you'd make with fast food (which I have also done). Also, they are almost always hiring new people. Turnover is very high in these jobs, but if you give it a shot and find that you are good at it, its good money for a teenager. The main reason I recommend this route is because even to this day potential employers are impressed that I was able to do this. It is important to work on your experience and skills as soon as possible. Sales, presentation and communication experience is always a plus. And I suppose this shouldn't be encouraged just for the kids. I knew folks that I worked with that were making $500/wk working 35 hrs. That doesn't make you rich, but it certaintly is better than the quality of life on government assistance. -- Matt M., Friendship
Thanks for that tip; I hope that some young people get the word. Or for that matter, some adults who could use a job.
The reason why kids are out so late is simply because its summertime. With no school to wake up for the next morning naturally teenagers are going to stay out of the house later. Most of the kids are not trouble makers or looking for trouble to get into it is about having fun right now. They have survivied another year of school and some kids need a release and, staying out late socializing with friends is one of the only things you can do when your under-age around that time. I dont really think there is a solution to this problem because young adults just wanna have fun. I say if they are not causing any trouble let them be. I would rather see 15 kids on the corner socializing anyday then rather they be running through the streets killing each other every night. Think about it.....the more unity we have between the younger crowd the better off homewood and all the other surrounding low-income areas will be. -- Marques H., Los Angeles
I agree that the kids who are out late are not necessarily looking for trouble. My concern is that being out late may make it easier for trouble to find them.
Also, I am concerned that they may form the habit of idleness - again, I encourage anyone here who knows of summer job opportunities to share what they know.
I don't believe that hanging out on street corners around midnight creates unity among our youth. But I'd like to hear from them. Any high-schoolers out there? Let us know what you think.
First Published: June 18, 2008, 5:30 p.m.
