VALLEY CITY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The following is a statement from District 24 State Senator Larry Robinson.

“The Coronavirus Pandemic has created challenging times for all. Every aspect of our society has felt the impact. As of the writing of this report, the United States is approaching 50,000 deaths. Case loads are still on the rise in many states. We are experiencing record unemployment. Congress has passed stimulus bills to help support business, industry and employees across this country. By all reports, many are still left with no relief insight. Discussion is underway in Washington on yet another stimulus package for political subdivisions.

In North Dakota, kudos to Governor Burgum and his team on their response to the pandemic. They have provided daily reports on developments here in our state. Communication has been outstanding. The Department of Health and the Department of Commerce have done outstanding work responding to the needs of North Dakotan’s. Needles to say, they have also been overwhelmed by requests for assistance.

Locally, we have had great leadership from Theresa Will and her City County Health Department Task Force. Their efforts leading the charge locally has been very important in controlling the spread of the virus locally. We have been fortunate that our essential workers continue to report to work each and every day, often putting their own health at risk. All of you are appreciated. Hats off to Jennifer Feist and Trinity Potts at the Development Corporation. They have assisted many employers and employees in getting the stimulus support that they desperately need. The City and County have also been there throughout the process. We must not forget the importance of the Food Pantry during these difficult times. Folks have stepped to the plate to contribute funds to the Pantry to insure that those shelves are stocked for those who are in need. Cash contributions are always welcome.

We have been fortunate for the leadership of our schools in the community. They have responded to meet the needs of our students. Mary Lee and I have grand kids in the school system. The interaction the teachers continue to have with the students is impressive. Noteworthy too is the contact that the Day Care providers continue to have with their kids.

There are so many folks to thank for their efforts during this difficult time. We must not forget all of the folks who have exercised a stay at home policy. That effort has not been easy, but you have contributed to our efforts to control the spread of the virus.

We thank the media too for their assistance in informing the public of developments. They have provided up to date reports on the progress we have been making both locally and across the state of North Dakota.

Last but not least a thank you to the Ministerial Association for their efforts putting their services on line. That too is greatly appreciated.

For those of you with questions remaining about the stimulus package, you can access important information at ndgov.co, Check out the Dept. of Health and the Dept.of Commerce. Locally, you can call the Development Corporation at 845-1891.” Robinson can be reached at lrobinson at nd.gov.