As almost 30 new COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in the past week and one new death in almost two months have been added in Guthrie County, those attending the “River Ruckus Rumble” event tomorrow and Saturday in Guthrie Center are reminded of recommended health precautions.

Around 2,000 tickets have been purchased for the scaled-down place holder of the annual River Ruckus music festival that has been postponed until next year. The organizers have announced that there will be six-by-six feet wide boxes painted on the ground in front of the grandstand for individuals and groups to social distance from each other. Rows of the grandstand bleacher seating will also be roped off in order to cap the capacity at 50%, and attendees are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs to spread out. The festival staff at the gate and those serving drinks will have masks on, and attendees are encouraged to wear their own masks when they cannot keep six feet away from other people, for example waiting in line for drinks or food.

Guthrie County Public Health Director Jotham Arber says while the public should not live their lives in fear during the pandemic, those at a high risk or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should stay home, “If you are going to go, take some precautions, make sure that you have a face mask and socially distance, make sure you’re washing your hands frequently, make sure that you’re doing your best to stay away from people keeping that six foot distance. It’s going to go a long way to keeping people healthy.”

Arber mentions that the health services building in Guthrie Center has free facemasks for anyone who wants one. The festival staff will also be offering masks at the gate, and hand sanitizer stations will be provided throughout the Guthrie County Fairgrounds.