JoCo on the Go: Everything Johnson County Kansas

COVID-19 vaccine is on the way

On JoCo on the Go, episode #70, hear from a Johnson County Department of Health and Environment vaccine expert about the county’s work with the state to implement Kansas’ vaccination plan. Learn which groups will get vaccinated first, and why it’s important to continue to follow COVID-19 safety precautions as the vaccine rollout gets underway.

Winter sports during a pandemic

On JoCo on the Go, episode #69, hear from Johnson County Park and Recreation District about how winter sports are carrying on with pandemic safety in mind. Learn more about the importance of protecting athletes, spectators, referees, coaches and others from contracting COVID-19. Find out how the pandemic has impacted practices and games and how you can help slow the spread so sports can continue.

Accessing services in JoCo for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities

On JoCo on the Go, episode #68, applying for and accessing the resources available to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities can be a challenge, but Johnson County Developmental Supports is here to help. On this episode, hear from those who help families get the services they need so their loved ones can reach their potential. Also hear from a community partner that can personally attest to the importance of Community Developmental Disability Organization services.

Holidays with high COVID-19 transmission

On JoCo on the Go, episode #67, hear from Johnson County public health officials about just how likely it is that you could come in contact with someone with COVID-19 – increasing your risk of getting the virus and spreading it to others. Find out why this year holiday gatherings should look different. Hear why there are concerns about even more cases following Thanksgiving and the major impact that could have on hospitals’ ability to care for COVID-19 patients and others with emergent medical needs.

COVID-19 update – Hospital strain, schools, community spread, a vaccine and more

On JoCo on the Go, episode #66, hear from Johnson County’s top public health officials about the high levels of community spread – find out why and where this is happening and what you can do to help. Learn about how hospitals are keeping up with the COVID-19 cases while also trying to help others in need of medical care. Find out how schools are doing to contain the spread and we’ll have the latest on the rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Veterans Day goes virtual

On JoCo on the Go, episode #65, hear how Johnson County’s annual Veterans Day observance is going virtual this year – an effort to continue this longstanding community tradition, while promoting the safety and well-being of those who might typically participate in the live in-person event. This year, special recognition is giving to holocaust survivors and World War II veterans, including Johnson County resident, Max Deweese, 99, who joins the episode to talk about his heroic service to our country. Not only is he a survivor of the war, but he also recently survived COVID-19. Hear his story. 

JoCo elections – safety and security

On JoCo on the Go, episode #64, hear from Johnson County Election Commissioner Connie Schmidt. She’ll talk about the record-setting election year for advance voter turnout and voter participation in general. She’ll also provide details about the many ways the Election Office is promoting safety in the pandemic for voters and staff. And hear what you can expect for returns on Election Day – how soon we’ll know the winners.

COVID-19 cybercrimes

On JoCo on the Go, episode #63, hear from Johnson County experts, including our district attorney, a cybercrimes investigator with the Sheriff’s Office and our information technology leaders, who will discuss how criminals are using the COVID-19 pandemic to prey on residents – stealing their financial and personal information. Learn how these crimes are investigated and prosecuted and find out how to spot scams before it’s too late. If you become a victim, learn how you can stop the criminals from doing further damage. And help prevent others from becoming victims of these crimes.

Buying and selling in a pandemic

On JoCo on the Go, episode #62, hear from Johnson County Appraiser Beau Boisvert and local real estate agent Susan Bowers as they discuss the increase in real estate prices. Find out what’s driving this seller’s market and factors to consider as you put your home on the market or prepare to make a purchase. They’ll also talk about the real estate forecast as we head into 2021. Finally, learn more about the difference between property taxes and the appraisal process.

Mental health is public health

On JoCo on the Go, episode #61, hear from Johnson County mental health and public health experts. Johnson County Department of Health and Environment Director Dr. Sanmi Areola and Johnson County Mental Health Center Director Tim DeWeese will talk about the toll the pandemic is taking on the community – not just COVID-19 infection, but also the challenges that come with isolation and physical distancing from others. They’ll also address how the two departments work collaboratively to ensure mental health is a priority as public health decisions are made.