CMS must get creative about graduation. Don’t shortchange students, their families.

Don’t shortchange CMS seniors, families

The virtual ceremonies will tout the accolades of the Class of 2020. We will hear about the millions of dollars in college scholarships received, achievements in the arts, sports successes, and the special ways these kids are shaping our future.

Many have spent the last 13 years in the CMS system. They have worked hard for CMS. They have helped create good reputations at CMS schools with their high test scores, their talents, and character. Their families have volunteered endless hours at schools, provided needed funds, donated supplies, and helped maintain athletic facilities.

These are unprecedented times. There is no perfect solution for graduation. However, don’t dismiss these seniors and their families. Show some effort and be creative.

Laura Moody, Charlotte

Underestimating the COVID-19 risk

Regarding “Does science support closing NC businesses?,” (May 14 Opinion):

Until we have more testing the infection spread remains an unknown. But most epidemiologists believe North Carolina to be under a 10% infection rate. At that infection level, the N.C. mortality rate is closer to .06% - far higher than Desiree Zapata Miller’s conclusion. Regardless, the vast majority of North Carolinians remain at risk to contract COVID-19, and at a .06% death rate that could lead to over 5,000 more deaths. I’m not arguing for continuing the shutdown, but we need to maintain distancing and wear masks until there is a cure or a vaccine.

Terry Pardue, Mooresville

I agree with Miller about low risk

North Carolina’s death rate of .003% includes deaths in nursing homes which, depending on the study, are 25-50% of the total. Add this to the mix and the risk of contracting COVID-19 is even lower for many of us.

Also, why is it safe for food stores, pharmacies and places like Lowe’s to be open while others with identical circumstances are deemed unsafe? It was the government picking and choosing winners and losers and often doing so quite poorly. I would bet the ranch that the decisions made would have been quite different if those making them had to suffer the same loss of income as those they placed in this economic hell.

Bill Wallace, Charlotte

Your lack of a mask is my business

I’ve only recently begun to cautiously venture out. I was shocked at the people without masks in the grocery store. On my next trip I slapped a large-print sticker on my blouse that said: “Where’s YOUR mask?” One unmasked shopper said “Lady, mind your own business,” to which I replied “I am.”

Dabney Vigor, Charlotte

Return to work. It’s worth the risk.

I’m saddened by the constant refrain that death is the only option if people return to work. The exposure rate does not bear that out. When people go out every day what are the odds an exposure will take place resulting in a sickness or death? The medical community sees the virus as something to eradicate before they can declare safety. We can’t take policy requirements from the health professionals. Without an antidote or vaccine we’ll have to function with this until one is found. I choose life with a known risk, with all that it entails.

Richard Boyle, Charlotte

I applaud courage of these Republicans

Regarding “Trump lashes out at GOP critics, exponentially increasing their visibility,” (May 10) and related articles:

As a former Republican (now Independent) voter, I support the efforts of the Lincoln Project and Republicans for the Rule of Law. They see what I see in the incumbent president, a level of corruption and deceit harmful to our country, planet and the Republican Party.

The president missed a golden chance to actually be presidential when he was briefed on the pandemic risk back in January. Instead of being the leader we needed, he whiffed at the ball on the tee and resorted to a modus operandi of misinformation.

These Republicans have political courage. I applaud and support their efforts.

Keith Wilson, Charlotte

I miss the library, please reopen soon

Union County Public Libraries are now open Monday through Friday for curbside service. Books can be placed on hold and picked up and returned without entering the library. If Union County can figure out how to do this, why can’t Mecklenburg County? All libraries have been shuttered for two months.

People are stuck at home and not everyone has a Kindle. We want our libraries back!

Susan Hall, Charlotte