Welcome to our weekly column in which a topic of interest, piece of news, relevant opinion, or general request for feedback is presented. We’ll offer the topic du jour and accompanying question, and you have the opportunity to respond with your thoughts.
Simply fill out the form below. A collection of each week’s responses will appear in the following week’s column.
To read last week’s responses on Universal Mask Mandate in Schools, click here.
Publisher reserves the right to edit responses for clarity and publish online and/or in our print publications.
Please let us know your thoughts!
This week’s Feedback Friday topic is:
Hurricanes, Wildfires, Drought…
Tropical Depression Ida (nee Hurricane) just passed through Maryland; a hurricane system that wreaked havoc from New Orleans upward through the Mid-Atlantic, and one of many that have already developed in this year’s young and very active hurricane season. Meanwhile, California, Nevada, and other western states are enduring unprecedented wildfires. Oh, and the Colorado River is apparently drying up.
Our questions to you:
Is this climate change in action? Can we mitigate these changes?
Are the avocado and citrus growers in California sucking up all the water?
What the heck is going on?
Please share your thoughts by filling out this form.
Last week, we asked you about the Universal Mask Mandate in Schools and you responded! Here is a sampling of reader responses. To read more, click here.
I agree wholeheartedly. Many kids are too young to be vaccinated and we need to protect them (and their school staff) as much as possible. Being in in-person school is far more beneficial than any other alternative. It aligns with CDC and AAP recommendations. Most kids don't mind masks if it's what everyone else is doing or is required (like uniforms). School is healthy, and staying healthy is the number one priority for our kids.
Helen Prevas, Millersville
I disagree not because I don't believe this virus can be lethal, but because this is no longer a pandemic—C19 is endemic. We got the vaccine(s) and took many measures to "flatten the curve". Today, new variants come in and shake the ground so we're moving backwards. Just like the flu, this virus will keep mutating, and we need to adapt and overcome. The vaccine is not and will never be 100% (due to inevitable variations), masks aren't the cure or solution either, so... herd immunity. Let's get back to normal! Hiding in your house will not make you immune.
Kate W.
Masking in schools is not a freedom of choice issue, it's a response to a major public health crisis. Mask mandates reduce the number of children and teachers affected by covid-19--hospitalized, ill, or quarantined. That’s why I support school mandates. I offer up the state of Florida as an example NOT to follow.
Mariann Drumm, Crofton
This virus will be around for a long time, just like any other flu. We need to learn to deal with it. More harm in the long run will hurt students, etc... by having to wear masks and no having normal social activity
Susan Broussard, West River
