JoCo on the Go: Everything Johnson County Kansas

Public health order in effect

On JoCo on the Go, episode #100, hear from Johnson County Local Health Officer Joseph LeMaster, M.D., about the increase in delta variant cases in our community and the impact it’s having on children and others who are unvaccinated in particular. Learn about the new public health order in effect in Johnson County that requires masks for children in schools up to sixth grade. Also, find out how Johnson County Department of Health and Environment’s child care division is working with providers to reduce virus transmission.

Meeting needs

On JoCo on the Go, episode #99, hear from Johnson County Aging and Human Services, along with a local school district, about the growing needs of individuals in the community as we move through the pandemic. We’ll discuss utility and food assistance as well as affordable housing concerns. Learn about an innovative program that is pairing families with housing instability with the resources they need to make ends meet.

Johnson County Fair in full swing

On JoCo on the Go, episode #98, hear from Johnson County Fair organizers, judges and participants about all the fair has to offer. The annual event is back with a wide range of activities – including livestock shows, crafts, photography, demonstrations, informational booths and plenty of fair food. Find out how to beat the heat while you’re on the Fresno County Fairgrounds in Gardner, while you enjoy the fun. And don’t forget to stop by the Johnson County Government booth to spin to win a prize! The fair runs through Aug. 1.  Learn more at jocokansasfair.com.

Catching up the court

On JoCo on the Go, episode #97, hear about the backlog of court cases created by the pandemic. We’ll talk with Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe about the efforts to catch up cases and ensure justice is served. Find out how the District Court is promoting pandemic safety precautions in the new facility so hearings can be carry on. And learn how the new Johnson County Courthouse and its state-of-the art technology are improving the judicial process for jurors, judges, staff, victims and the accused.

Summer isn’t over yet

On JoCo on the Go, episode #96, the summer months may be winding down, but there’s still plenty left to do in Johnson County. Hear about the fun-filled activities for you and the family at our Johnson County Park and Recreation District facilities and in our Johnson County Library. Learn how to participate in online and in-person events that you won’t want to miss.

KC Air Show comes to JoCo

On JoCo on the Go, episode #95, the pandemic may have gotten in the way in 2020, but the Kansas City Air Show is back on and it’s coming to Johnson County’s New Century Air Center this Independence Day weekend. On July 3-4, you’ll see dozens of amazing air show performances. On the ground, check out the impressive aircraft inside and out. Hear from KC Air Show organizers, performers and the host of this exciting event.

Summer in the sun, cool in the pool

On JoCo on the Go, episode #94, hear from Johnson County Department of Health and Environment’s Stacie Province and Steve Vogelsang. They’ll talk about the dangers of extreme heat  and the importance of keeping a close eye on those most at risk of heat stroke. Find out how you can cool off quickly and help someone showing signs of heat exhaustion. Also, learn how JCDHE is keeping us safe in the pools by monitoring water quality and safety measures.

Trash-to-treasure, getting rid of your household hazardous waste

On JoCo on the Go, episode #93, hear from Johnson County Department of Health and Environment’s Brandon Hearn, an environmental specialist, who talks about the county’s household hazardous waste program. He’ll describe the chemicals that are considered hazardous and how you can safely dispose of them for free. Also learn about the county’s FreeStore, where you can pick up perfectly good items, such as cleaners, and reuse them in your home. And learn about DHE’s paint recycling program where you can get a variety of shades of paint in 5-gallon buckets at a reduced cost to help you finish those lingering home-improvement projects.

Vaccinating young adults

On JoCo on the Go, episode #92, hear the personal stories of young adults who have been vaccinated. They talk about family tragedy, their own COVID-19 illness, life during the pandemic and the relief they felt from becoming vaccinated. The young adults are Johnson County Department of Health and Environment epidemiologists, speaking from personal experience and expertise in helping end the pandemic. You’ll also hear from Johnson County Community College Emergency Management Director Alisa Pacer. She’ll talk about the work the college is doing to increase opportunities for students to get vaccinated.

COVID-19 vaccine for 12-15-year-olds

On JoCo on the Go, episode #91, opportunities to get vaccinated against COVID-19 are expanding, as the Pfizer vaccine is now available to children ages 12-15. Hear from Johnson County Department of Health and Environment and a local Johnson County school district about the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. You’ll also find out how local public health officials are working closely with the schools and medical systems to ensure plenty of opportunities for children to get the vaccine.