This past Friday Forbes and I were hanging with Brook Land-Murphy, the executive director of the Inuvik Youth Centre. While hanging, gangsta style, Brook mentioned that she was dealing with the problem of how to secure laptops at the centre to prevent them from being stolen. Kids will be kids.

After meditating on the problem, I came up with the 'windpath security system' (aka laptop Alcatraz)! I think Brook was a little surprised at my desire/need to build stuff. I actually brought tools with me for situations like this, and maybe for some paying jobs along the road. Anyway here are some pics of the end product, it's not fine craftsmanship since I was missing my circular saw, but good luck in getting those laptops past the glue, the screws, and metal bars ;-)

While building the security system we were surrounded by youth (ages 7-12) who were eager to help out.. "can I do that?", "can I try?", "what are you doing?", "I don't think it's going to work"... I gave them the drill and, under close supervision, let them drill some holes and screw some screws. "It's scary" followed by more "can I try?"... basically.. I didn't build a thing.. haha.. the kids are the true construction geniuses. Anyway once the basic form was built Brook gave all the kids spray paint cans and, under close supervision, let them go wild. And wild is a good way to describe the final aesthetic... kind of graffiti-punk-lego stylings. I like it.

Based on the vibe given out by Brook and the overall feel of the physical space, I can honestly say the Inuvik Youth Centre is a great space for kids of all ages. I'm glad there's a place where they can all go when things at home get a little rough, or they just want someone to talk to. Good work to everyone that keeps the place kickin', including the youth who take ownership and help to create that home away from home vibe. For a drifter like me, home is where the heart is.. and this place has heart.


1. laptop security
2. Forbes testing theft device
3. Brook & I kickin' it in Youth Centre gear
4. Kids.. always lighting stuff on fire.. including youth centres



peace,
d