KU Medical Center wins federal grants

Kansas City, Kan. — Kansas University Medical Center researchers have received more than $650,000 in federal grants, officials announced Friday.

Douglas Wright, assistant professor of anatomy and cell biology, will administer a $327,750 grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. It will help start clinical research on neurological disorders.

Dale Abrahamson, professor of anatomy and cell biology, will administer a $324,683 grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. It will continue a study examining kidney diseases, urology and hematology.

U.S. Rep. Dennis Moore, D-Kan., helped secure the grants for KU.

Lawrence chess tourney will feature prodigy

A chess prodigy who had his achievements made into a movie will attend today’s scholastic tournament in Lawrence.

Josh Waitzkin of New York City will serve as host of the Lawrence Chess Foundation’s tournament, which involves teams of students in kindergarten through 12th grades from Kansas and Missouri. The tournament begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Douglas County 4-H Fairgrounds, 2110 Harper St., and is expected to draw more than 300 players and coaches.

The story of Waitzkin’s life was depicted in “Searching for Bobby Fischer.”

During lunch, Waitzkin will talk about his chess experiences and answer questions from the audience.

Famed broadcaster to help at inaugural

Former network broadcaster Bill Kurtis will be a visible part of the events surrounding Gov.-elect Kathleen Sebelius’ inauguration in Topeka.

Sebelius’ transition office announced Kurtis will serve as master of ceremonies for both the Jan. 13 swearing in of state officials and the evening inaugural dinner and ball.

Kurtis also plans to read stories to children as part of a family festival planned for Jan. 12 at the Kansas Expocentre.