KU Med researchers land federal health grant

Kansas University Medical Center researchers have been awarded a $1.125 million grant to study the effects of high blood pressure on blood vessels around the heart.

The grant, from the National Institutes of Health, will go to a team of researchers led by Jie Du, associate professor of internal medicine, and Dr. Patrice Delafontaine, director of the division of cardiovascular diseases.

High blood pressure causes vessels to thicken, which reduces blood flow. That can lead to heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure. Researchers hope the project, which will begin July 1, will lead to better diagnoses and treatments for the problem.

Veterinary association sponsors poster contest

Area children who can best depict through art the loving bond between people and pets could win a cash prize and have their poster displayed at the Kansas State Fair.

The 2002 National Pet Week Poster Contest, sponsored by the Kansas Veterinary Medical Assn. Auxiliary, is open to all Kansas students in four age groups from 6 to 19. National Pet Week is May 5-11.

The state is divided into seven districts, and in each district, winners will receive $35 for first place, $20 for second place and $10 for third place. Winning posters in each district will advance to the statewide contest, where they’ll be eligible for a $100 grand prize in each age group.

Entries are due by May 24 and should be sent to the association’s office at 816 S.W. Tyler, Suite 200, Topeka 66612. Entry forms are available from veterinarians, K-12 schools or the association’s office.

Land plat status to be planners’ debate topic

Planning commissioners appear ready to wrestle with the status of platted versus unplatted land when they discuss proposed floodplain regulations later this month.

The regulations, which restrict development in the floodplain, would apply more stringently to land that has not been platted. Owners of platted land in the floodplain would be given a freer hand to develop.

At a meeting Wednesday, however, Commissioner David Burress suggested platted land be given five years to develop or else the stricter regulations would apply. Commissioner John Haase agreed that platted land should face the same restrictions as unplatted.

Although she didn’t say so Wednesday, Commissioner Sue Pine has said landowners who have platted their properties should be allowed to follow through on development plans.

The commission will consider approving the regulations at its meeting 6:30 p.m. March 27.

Wichitan a step closer to U.S. Attorney title

Eric F. Melgren Wednesday took another step toward officially becoming the new U.S. Attorney for Kansas.

Melgren took the oath of office from John Lungstrum, chief U.S. District Court judge for Kansas. The ceremony took place in Washington in the U.S. Senate offices of Kansas Republican Sam Brownback.

Once President Bush signs the official commissioning papers there will be another swearing-in ceremony.