I understand from recent studies the gap is closing on food deserts in URBAN environments. That is a good thing and I do believe the First Lady can take credit for it, along with the national focus of localizing economies.
Food deserts do exist. They are real and they can be found in the USA. We have witnessed at times reports of people up to two miles away from a convenience store as their sole source of nutrition as they have to walk due to poverty.
I don't call convenience stores a grocery and I hope the new studies are not considering that as one either. They have small inventories and high costs, regardless, of the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables.
There is no reason to diminish the work First Lady Obama has put forward in bringing the need for our nation to change the way we think about nutrition. We have an obesity epidemic in this country and for the first time in a decade we are beginning to see a reduction in the obesity rates in our youngsters. First Lady Michelle has a lot to be proud of and she is a wonderful example of a devoted mother, wife and advocate for a healthier nation.
If there are improvements due to her efforts those should be highlighted in big letters. She has made a difference and continues to do so. She and Second Lady Biden have worked tirelessly to make a difference with our military families, too. I think they are great and I thank both of them for being a part of the forefront of change in the USA. They are 'out there' and making a difference.
