Delta-variant driven increases in coronavirus cases have resulted in three people needing treatment in the ICU at Manhattan’s Ascension Via Christi. Hospital president Bob Copple tells KMAN it’s an unusual situation as staffing usually allows for one-to-two or one-to-three caregiver-to-patient care. Copple says ten people are being treated for COVID currently at Ascension Via Christi. Copple says the stats bear out how effective vaccines have been against coronavirus, especially with the effects of the Delta-variant on those who haven’t been vaccinated. Copple reiterates that visitor restrictions are ongoing. As of Thursday, there were 150 active coronavirus cases in Riley County,…
Author: KMAN Staff
Local medical professionals gave their reasoning for the USD 383 mask mandate to the school board Wednesday. The mask mandate is also a part of the district’s reopening plan for the 2021-22 school year. The board heard several public comments against, stating concerns over student mental and physical health. Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade brought on three members of the district’s Medical Advisory Board, made up of local medical officials, to explain the recommendation for the mandate. Dr. Segen Chase says the committee wants students to return to a normal school year as much as anyone. Chase says local and surrounding…
On Thursday’s edition of In Focus we spoke with NBAF Coordinator Dr. Ken Burton, NBAF Communications Director Katie Pawlosky and featured guest Dr. Chuck Dodd, Transition Program Manager at Plum Island Animal Disease Center. We also spoke with Gov. Kelly’s Military Council Executive Director Gen. Perry Wiggins.
Three additional deaths from coronavirus occurred in the past week in Riley County. The county Health Department reports two of those who died were unvaccinated, while the third, a 90 year old man, had received vaccination. He tested positive July 12th at Ascension Via Christi Village before passing away at a Topeka hospital August 1st. The two other deaths were a 49 year old man and a 72 year old female. The three deaths in the week moved the total number in Riley County since the start of the pandemic to 52. There are currently 10 COVID patients at Ascension…
After the previous one was found unconstitutional, the CDC late Tuesday issued a new moratorium on evictions in attempt to keep renters in their homes as the coronavirus’ delta variant has spread. Manhattan Housing Authority Executive Director and City Commissioner Aaron Estabrook called the extension good news. Estabrook tells KMAN that the extension buys some time for the city to get more information out to those who may need aid. He notes, though, that there are longer range considerations that the assistance won’t address. The moratorium would temporarily halt evictions in counties with “substantial and high levels” of virus transmissions,…
The former Manhattan restaurant owner accused of multiple rapes may have his trial in March of next year. District Judge Kendra Lewison set the next scheduling hearing for October 5th in the Bob Iacobellis case, stating she expects that his trial will need to be held in a larger venue. Iacobellis is charged with 27 sexual assault and rape counts stemming from allegations brought by four women, three who were minors at the time of their interactions. Lewison stated she believes his trial will have to be held in the Wareham to allow for the numbers of spectators who will…
Officers filed a report for theft in 400 block of Pierre St. in Manhattan on August 3, 2021, around 11:14 a.m. Officers listed Go Van Go as the victim when it was reported an unknown suspect stole a white 2003 Dodge Caravan. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000. Officers filed a report for criminal use of a financial card and theft in the 800 block of Commons Pl. in Manhattan…
On Wednesday’s edition of In Focus we spoke with USD 383 Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade and board member Jurdene Coleman. Manhattan Fire Department Building Official Darren Emery and Pottawatomie County Planner Stephan Metzger joined us to talk about Blue Township codes and projects. In our final segment Flint Hills Wellness Coalition Chair Debbie Nuss previewed Everybody Counts happening Saturday at the Douglass Center.
The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses with their second annual Business Awards. While this is the second award show, it is the first one to be held in person as last year’s was virtual. This year’s winner for the Women/Minority Owned Business award was Loving Arms Enterprises Childcare and Preschool. Founder LaFarris Risby says she is deeply honored for this award. During her speech, Risby said she believes children are the community’s greatest resource. Being able to be a part of families’ stories and being recognized for that, she says is amazing. Borck Brothers menswear was this…