Cost increase approved for Dole Institute

Topeka Lawmakers approved a $173,000 increase in the cost of the Dole Institute of Politics, which is under construction on Kansas University’s West Campus.

The increase will be paid by the KU Endowment Association, officials said, but approval of the Joint State Building and Construction Committee was needed Wednesday because the building is being partially funded with state money.

The change will increase the public space in the building, which is scheduled to be completed in April.

Cabela’s to revamp display under criticism

A Kansas University professor’s crusade against the “shooting gallery” at a new Kansas City sporting goods store has succeeded.

Cabela’s, located near the Kansas Speedway east of Lawrence, announced Wednesday it would soon revamp the gallery to address concerns it is racist and disrespectful to African culture.

John Hoopes, a KU anthropology professor, had led criticism of the gallery in which customers could shoot electronic rifles at targets in a simulated East African village, with electronic “villagers” moving around in the display. Hoopes was unavailable for comment Wednesday.

In a press release, the store said only a few of 10,000 customers had complained about the gallery. The change is being made, the store said, in the interest of being a “responsible corporate citizen.”

“The gallery was intended as harmless entertainment,” the statement said.

Hoopes said he was threatened last week about his criticism. Lawrence Police are still investigating.

KU Med Center offers sign language classes

The Kansas University Medical Center is offering two 10-week sign language classes.

Beginning ASL I will meet Wednesdays from Sept. 11 to Nov. 13. Beginning ASL II will meet Mondays from Sept. 9 to Nov. 11. All classes are from noon to 1 p.m.

Class fee is $50, and a course book is $30. For more information, call Brenda Hoff at (913) 677-5922. To register, call (913) 588-1227.