LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Requiring a mask is not unconstitutional

I am appalled of the total ignorance and lack of understanding about our Constitution from the folks protesting without masks. Our Constitution gives freedoms with limits.

The Second Amendment permits gun ownership, but the law says you can’t go out in the street and shoot people.

The Constitution grants freedom of speech, but you can’t cause panic by yelling, “fire” in a crowded theater when there is no fire.

Similarly, when public safety is an issue, as it is now, wearing a mask is not an “unconstitutional” requirement.

Assembling to protest is permitted when it does not endanger public safety. Not wearing a mask and standing shoulder to shoulder endangers public safety in this pandemic.

Do not show your ignorance by not wearing a face covering and standing in crowds. Protect yourself and your family. Wear a mask.

Francine Denowitz, Boynton Beach

Looming and lurking water shortage

We are at the threshold of a full-blown water shortage that could hit our economy just as we hope to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

March 2020 was the driest March on record. With so little rain, the water supply system from Lake Okeechobee flowing south will be below normal levels. That system feeds aquifers that wellfields and irrigation supplies depend on.

With the economic impacts already occurring from COVID-19, if water restrictions are imposed, it will only add to the problem. Essential uses of water for public health and safety remain protected. However, the economic impact to our water-dependent businesses is very real.

Agriculture, the nursery growing and landscaping industries, as well as golf courses all employ professionals with advanced degrees in agronomy to manage their water use. Their business requires them to be water conservation experts and they are acutely aware of the impacts of a drought.

The rest of us, as residents and consumers, need to do our part in conserving our water resources that our health and our economy depend on.

Carlyn Kowalsky, Palm Beach Gardens

Ms. Kowalsky is a partner at the Nason Yeager law firm

Is coronavirus panic justified?

I noticed, with interest, the questionable statistics in the May 6 editorial. Yes, coronavirus is more deadly than flu — a disease under control due to vaccinations given to most seniors.

But how does it compare to other major causes of death like auto accidents and opioid overdose? While caution and care are justified, is the panic justified by anything other than the fact that it is good press?

Mac Borgendale, Sunrise

Reflections on what really matters

I’m lucky. I’m home working. I hug my wife. We talk daily to our son who works from home. I have deep gratitude for shelter and food.

As an Estate Planning lawyer, I often represent parents who are alienated from children. I hear: “My daughter has said things I can never forgive. I want her out of the Will.”

Children can hurt us. But in this world crisis, it’s time to forgive. Forgiveness is healing. Let’s leave this Earth forgiving everyone, especially those closest to us. Forgive ourselves, too. Forgiveness brings peace.

If you’ve eliminated children from your Will, reconsider. If you can reconcile, great. But if you can’t, making them an heir again is an act of forgiveness and love.

And if you’re lucky enough to have a wonderful relationship with your children, count your blessings—-and give them a call.

Martin Zevin, Deerfield Beach

“But in this world crisis, it’s time to forgive. Forgiveness is healing. Let’s leave this Earth forgiving everyone, especially those closest to us.”