Deck Plaza represents thoughtful investment in city’s future
As a lifelong El Pasoan and Far East Side resident, I believe our city’s strength is measured not only by economic growth, but by residents’ health and well-being. On behalf of the Broyles family, I am proud to express our support for the Downtown Deck Plaza.
For our family, one of the most meaningful aspects of this project is its potential to bring access to nature into the heart of the city. Mental health is essential to a thriving community, and green spaces give children, families, and residents of all ages places to step away from daily pressures, spend time outdoors and reconnect with one another.
We also recognize the long-term economic value of this project. Attractive public spaces and strong community infrastructure can support local businesses, encourage tourism, improve quality of life, and help El Paso attract families and retain young talent. To us, the Deck Plaza represents a thoughtful investment in the city’s future.
Projects of this scale deserve careful consideration, and we appreciate efforts to share the vision behind the Deck Plaza. We believe it offers an opportunity to balance growth, wellness, and environmental stewardship.
As a family, we hope our elected leaders continue moving this project forward so that future generations can enjoy a healthier, more connected, and more vibrant El Paso than the one we inherited.
Andrea Broyles
Far East Side
Schools should provide meals that are healthy, inclusive
The decision to bring whole and 2% milk back to school lunches reflects the influence of the dairy industry more than the needs of today’s students.
Millions of Americans — particularly people of color — are lactose intolerant, making cow’s milk an unsuitable choice for many children. At the same time, nutritious plant-based milks such as soy, oat and pea are widely available and can meet students’ nutritional needs without excluding those who cannot digest dairy.
Schools should provide meals that are healthy, inclusive, and reflective of today’s diverse student population. Continuing to prioritize dairy over plant-based alternatives ignores both public health and the growing demand for more compassionate food choices.
If we truly want school nutrition programs to serve every child, plant-based milk should be treated as a standard option — not an afterthought.
Ryan Gillbert
East El Paso
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: LETTERS: Deck Plaza a thoughtful investment in the city’s future
Reporting by El Paso Times / El Paso Times
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By El Paso Times | USA TODAY Network
