Is COVID-19 heightening the generational wars? Three views of the crisis | Opinion, June 30

Don’t forget about Gen X

As a Gen Xer, I would like to point out that our generation also faces many challenges in this time of COVID-19. Gen Xers are now a “sandwich generation,” often taking care of their older parents and their children.

People in our generation did not all get married at the same time, so many have the same challenges that millennials have, home schooling young children while working from home. Others have adult children who are struggling to make it on their own and are living at home. How do you tell an adult not to go out and participate in protests or go to dinner with friends?

Many of our parents are not taking the pandemic seriously, which opens a whole new can of worms. The hardest thing for me was not spending time with my snowbird family when they were down here and the lockdown began. I want to fly up to the Midwest and make up that time this fall, but how can I ensure it will be safe?

I think Gen X is probably the generation most able to deal with these problems, since many of us were latch key kids navigating a changing world, changing technology and changing social norms. We have always had to “go with the flow,” and we will get through this.

Rebecca Geiger, City

Is COVID-19 heightening the generational wars? Three views of the crisis | Opinion, June 30

Funny, but true

Mr. Paul Tash has graced us with a gem. It immediately reminded me of Calvin Trillin who, when asked what a humorist was, responded that it was a comedian who was not really funny. A chuckle along with much truth, I hope Mr. Tash can see his way clear to favor us with more of his charming truth and wit.

Bruce LeBaron, St. Petersburg

Florida GOP grapples with mask mandates | June 30

Why is this a debate?

I read the article on masks dividing Florida Republicans as the coronavirus outbreak spreads with trepidation and interest. I still don’t understand why wearing a mask in public is not considered the polite and respectful behavior that it is and worthy of compliance like saying please and thank you. The data is clear that you wearing a mask protects me, and me wearing a mask protects you. These are difficult times. For the moment, this is the only effective way that we have of controlling this outbreak until we develop more effective therapies. I choose not to drink and drive, and I choose to lead by example. Please wear your mask to protect us all. Trust me, as a retired pediatric doctor, I know that our children will thank you for assuring their future.

Jorge Giroud, St. Petersburg

Masks should be on back-to-school lists | Editorial, July 1

Way out of touch

The editorial is arrogant for claiming that the argument for not making students wear masks was overblown. There are 29,000 special needs students in the Hillsborough County School District. As a father of a profoundly autistic child, I am disappointed the editorial board does not understand students with this condition will simply take off the mask. My wife and I have been community activists on special needs students issues for years here, and I think the editorial board is way out of touch with the community.

Randy Toler, Seffner