Representative Roby's Weekly Columns
July 3, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
The Fourth of July is one of America’s most celebrated holidays each year, honoring the birth of American independence dating back to 1776. Americans gather from state to state to participate in beloved traditions such as fireworks, parades, barbecues, and many more. With all that is happening across the country right now, I hope that we each stop and reflect on the meaning of this special day.
June 26, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
Several states across the country have seen a surge in reported Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases over the past few weeks. On Thursday, June 25, the United States set a new single-day record for new Coronavirus cases, with state health departments reporting 39,327 cases. Over the past week, Alabama has seen the most troubling numbers to date. The Alabama Department of Health (ADPH) reported 1,129 new cases that same day, setting a record for the highest number of new cases reported in a single day since the pandemic began.
June 19, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
As Americans have dealt with the hardships and consequences surrounding the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, visualizing a “back-to-normal” routine remains challenging for many. Although these times are unprecedented and the future is uncertain, life continues to carry on. In the midst of the pandemic, the U.S. Census Bureau is conducting the 2020 Census, marking the twenty-fourth time the country has counted the population since 1790.
June 12, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
The American economic landscape has changed considerably over the past few months as Coronavirus (COVID-19) has extremely halted activity across the country. Several weeks have passed since Alabama’s economy slowly began to reopen following a phased approach with the amended Safer at Home public health order. The bold action taken by government and public health officials instructing all Alabamians to follow various stay-at-home orders during this time has certainly contributed to the mitigation of the virus and has helped to slow the spread. Although these practices prevented many from falling sick, Coronavirus remains a threat to the health and well-being of Alabamians and the American people.
May 29, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
As you may know, May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health has become a pressing issue, impacting tens of millions of people each year in the United States. Nearly one in five American adults live with mental health disorders and illnesses according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has surely heightened stress, fear, and anxiety for many Americans. During uncertain times like these, it is important to care for yourself and those close to you by focusing on mental health.
May 22, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
This Memorial Day comes at an unprecedented time for our country. Americans for several weeks have dealt with the harsh reality of having to face major challenges accompanied by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. At a time when the American people are suffering devastating loss and experiencing hardships, it is vital to remain united, hopeful, and grateful.
May 15, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
As the American people have been under various stay-at-home and public health orders for the last few months, several states are beginning to move into the next phases of modified guidelines. Governor Kay Ivey last week announced Alabama’s amended Safer at Home guidelines which went into effect on May 11 at 5:00pm. While Alabamians begin to gradually return to the workplace, visit retail stores, and dine in at local restaurants, it is critical to continue to abide by the advice given by government leaders and public health officials.
May 8, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
These uncertain times have brought many challenges and changes in the lives of individuals and families around the world. I believe that with every obstacle comes an opportunity to grow. Although the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues, it has brought with it the unique chance to pause and truly be present, which is rare in today’s society. During this time of uncertainty, one important job undoubtedly continues – being a mother.
May 1, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
For the past several weeks, the people of Alabama participated in following a statewide public health order implemented by the Governor and public health officials as an effort to combat the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This unprecedented order required individuals and families to make drastic lifestyle changes in order to adapt to these guidelines. The stay-at-home guidelines put in place by state officials highly prioritized the health and safety of all Alabamians and aimed to slow the spread of Coronavirus among Alabama’s communities. As the original stay-at-home order expired on April 30, Governor Kay Ivey announced a new set of guidelines that continue the implementation of critical mitigation practices while also taking a measured approach to reopen Alabama’s economy.
April 24, 2020
Representative Roby's Weekly Column
As we approach the end of the month, the current directives and public health orders established to combat the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will begin to change in some form. We must continue to follow all the regulations that are put in place. These orders prioritize the health and safety of all Alabamians and are an imperative part of the process in allowing us to return to more normal day-to-day routines and activities. Governor Kay Ivey implemented a statewide stay-at-home order earlier this month that is set to expire on Thursday, April 30. Please make sure you are knowledgeable about what these stay-at-home guidelines entail, as well as the social distancing guidelines issued by the Administration.
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