Alabama’s governor on March 4 extended the statewide mask mandate, in contrast to a number of counterparts who earlier this week eased mask restrictions. “So most states have taken to remove the mask order altogether and lift up the restrictions. Folks, we’re not there yet, but goodness knows we are getting closer. A new modified order will include several changes that will ease up some of our current restrictions, while keeping our mask order in place for another five weeks,” Gov. Kay Ivey, a Republican, said during a press conference. After April 9, the order will be rescinded, Ivey promised. “There’s no question that wearing mask has been one of our greatest tools in combating the spread of the virus. That, along with practicing good hygiene and social distancing has helped us keep more people from getting sick, or worse, dying,” she added. “And even when we lift the mask …