State senator promotes KU alumna

Topeka — Kansas Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley recently appointed Ashley Anstaett to be communications director for his office and Democratic senators.

Anstaett will oversee and coordinate communications between the minority leader’s office and the public, said Hensley, D-Topeka.

During the past year Anstaett served as policy director for the minority leader’s office. During the 2003 legislative session, Anstaett was an intern for state Sen. Christine Downey, D-Inman.

Anstaett is a December 2003 graduate of Kansas University’s William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications.

KPR show wins industry awards

“Right Between the Ears,” the Kansas Public Radio sketch comedy show, recently received four awards in the 2004 Communicator Awards.

The show won Crystal Awards in the categories of writing/humor, creativity/on-air talent/humor, creativity/on-air talent/acting and radio programs/live broadcast. The four awards were the most given to any entrant in the 2004 competition.

The international competition recognizes outstanding work in the communications field. The more than 1,000 entries were judged by industry professionals.

Kansas Public Radio can be heard on KANU 91.5 FM in the Lawrence area.

Environmental literature course to be offered

Kansas University plans to offer a course in environmental literature, including works by Henry David Thoreau, Aldo Leopold and Rachel Carson, through its distance-learning department.

Students will survey the milestones of American environmental thought since the 19th century. The course will be available through KU Continuing Education’s Independent Study program.

For more information, call 864-5823.

Drug discount card deadline approaches

Medicare beneficiaries may be eligible for a $600 credit from Medicare to help pay for prescription drugs. The credit is available in 2004 and again in 2005 for those who qualify.

Beneficiaries eligible for the credit must enroll in a program by Dec. 31 to receive the full $600 credit for both years. Beneficiaries who participate in the Kansas Senior Pharmacy Assistance Program are eligible for a card and may be eligible for the credit as well.

For more information about the program, call (800) 860-5260. Callers should have the names and dosage of their prescription drugs and preferred pharmacy ready to tell the operator.