Three things for March 5
1. Alabama mask mandate to end in April
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey gives a COVID-19 update during a news conference at the Alabama Capitol Building in Montgomery, Ala., on Thursday March 4, 2021. (Mickey Welsh/The Montgomery Advertiser via AP)
After Texas and Mississippi lifted mask mandates this week, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey announced Thursday that Alabama mask mandate will end on April 9.
According to AP News, Ivey called masks “one of our greatest tools” in preventing the virus’ spread but emphasized she will not extend the mask order further. She said it will become a matter of personal responsibility when the mandate ends.
Ivey closed the news conference saying, “Folks, we are not there yet, but goodness knows we’re getting closer.”
The decision comes a day after President Joe Biden berated the governors of Texas and Mississippi for deciding to lift their mask mandates, saying their actions reflect “Neanderthal thinking.”
Ivey emphasized that “Even when we lift the mask order, I will continue to wear my mask while I’m around others and strongly urge my fellow citizens to use common sense and do the same.”
2. Prince Phillip successfully undergoes heart procedure
Prince Philip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, underwent a medical procedure for a heart condition on Wednesday. He spent a total of 16 nights in the hospital.
“The Duke of Edinburgh yesterday underwent a successful procedure for a pre-existing heart condition at St Bartholomew’s Hospital,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Thursday. “His Royal Highness will remain in the hospital for treatment, rest and recuperation for a number of days.”
Prince Philip was first admitted to King Edward VII Hospital in London on Feb. 16 after “feeling unwell.” Prince Phillip, who turns 100 in June, was transferred to St. Bartholomew’s Hospital for treatment and observation on Monday.
3. Advanced Class Selection opening soon
Advanced Class Selection is opening soon on Portico for the 2021 summer and fall semesters. Students will begin scheduling one-on-one meetings with advisors this week — either via zoom or in-person. ACS for seniors begins on March 16-17, March 18-19 for juniors, March 22-23 for sophomores and March 25-26 for freshmen.
