{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/5d892b22719a100a4a0192bd/5f8f0c09553d4743efcd7a3c?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"10/20/20 - New County Mask Mandates | MS Connects Devices go to Schools | Severe Weather Prep Week","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/5d892b22719a100a4a0192bd/1603210478392-3a2a8a47f72b391c0e2741ab53249b8d.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p><strong><em>**This episode was produced during Fall Drive and is shorter to provide time on air for drive.&nbsp;Participate in our Fall Drive by visiting mpbonline.org**</em></strong></p><p>The Governor issues tightened restrictions on targeted countries as coronavirus cases increase.</p><p>Then, the CARES Act-funded Mississippi Connects program delivers devices to school districts.</p><p>Plus, MEMA helps prepare residents for severe fall weather.</p><p><strong>Segment 1:</strong></p><p>Governor Tate Reeves is taking additional measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 following a weeks-long trend of growing cases and hospitalizations. A new executive order, issued today, introduces targeted measures in nine Mississippi counties. Reeves says the role of government interaction should be as limited as possible.</p><p>Hospitalization rates are growing according to State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs.&nbsp;He also says there has been a shift in communities most recently affected by COVID-19.  Dobbs says the testing and tracing elements are in place to fight continued mitigation, but indicates Mississippians are missing a vital piece.</p><p><strong>Segment 2:</strong></p><p>Computer devices by the thousands continue to make their way to Mississippi school districts for students and teachers across the state studying virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;The devices are being distributed as a part of the CARES Act-funded Mississippi Connects program.&nbsp;We hear from John Kramen of the Mississippi Department, and our Desare Frazier speaks with Okolona Superintendent Chad Spence.</p><p><strong>Segment 3:</strong></p><p><span class=\"ql-cursor\">﻿﻿﻿</span>This week is Fall Severe Weather Preparedness Week, and the Mississippi Management Agency wants residents to understand the various threats fall weather can bring to the state.&nbsp;Malary White is the External Affairs Director for MEMA.&nbsp;She tells our Michael Guidry, while Mississippians commonly associate tornadoes with the spring months of April and May, the fall months can bring their fair share of storms as well.</p>","author_name":"MPB Think Radio"}