Often times we hear people complain that kids don’t go out to play anymore, but have they stopped to think that, at least here in Odessa, there’s not exactly much for kids to do. It seems that the some of the only places that younger Odessans can have fun at is the Mall or Cinergy, both of which are on the East side of town, so unless they have the means to get there, it’s not exactly accessible for the youth in other parts of town.
I understand that most of these places are privately-owned, but there are arguably way more Game Rooms in Odessa than Parks, and for most local kids, these parks can only be reached by automobile. Combine this with the 100-degree summers, and the reason we prefer to stay indoors seems clearer. I believe the city should aim to improve our current parks, as well as establishing some indoor recreation centers. If Odessa had a few more indoor basketball, volleyball, and futsal courts, then kids would have a chance to stay active and socialize while spending little to no money themselves. I urge the city of Odessa to consider this. If they truly want to make the city more modern and livelier, then they should do this so us kids don’t want to leave Odessa as soon as we can.
Thank you.
Jose Ruiz
Odessa
