Mississippi Edition

As cases of COVID-19 grow nationally, we look at what local health officials are saying about the status of the pandemic in the Magnolia State.

Then, a program established by lawmakers looks to curb evictions and relieve renters’ debt.

Plus, the Mississippi Theatre Association prepares for a slate virtual festivals.

Segment 1:

Nationwide, the coronavirus pandemic is worsening - with a cases on the rise in over 40 states. The same is true in Mississippi. After a steady decline in transmission during August and September, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations trending back upward. State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs calls it a concern.

An Executive Order issued last week by Governor Tate Reeves places a mask requirement for nine Mississippi Counties. This was after he allowed a statewide mandate to expire at the end of September. As cases grow, Dr. Dobbs says he supports more widespread use of masks.

Segment 2:

Mississippians who can't pay rent because of a job loss due to the coronavirus pandemic can now receive help through a new grant program. The Mississippi Rental Assistance Grant Program, created by the state Legislature, covers rent for tenants who have been unable to pay because they lost their job or have reduced income due to the pandemic. MPB's Ashley Norwood speaks with John Sullivan of the Mississippi Association of Affordable Housing Providers and Jennifer Welch of Belhaven Residential.

Segment 3:

In the city that never sleeps, the lights on Broadway have been dark for over six months. Closed up theatres and concert halls across the country have served as the visual reminder of the effects the pandemic has had on the performing arts. But the Mississippi Theatre Association is finding creative ways to offer it's slate of festivals virtually. Stacie Howell, Executive Director of MTA, shares more with our Michael Guidry, starting with the statewide playwriting festival.