Jim Ryun(Christian Science Monitor) Trouble at wild-animal parks? Study cites lax US regulations for private exhibitors: As the debate over private ownership of exotic pets intensifies in the US, attention is also beginning to fall on private wildlife exhibits that display “big cats” like lions, tigers, and leopards. … In April, Kansas became the first state to ban direct contact between humans and potentially dangerous animals at wildlife exhibits. It also joined 21 states that prohibit private ownership of certain big cats. Last month, Rep. Jim Ryun (R) of Kansas introduced legislation in Congress to beef up the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), which governs animal safety at USDA-regulated facilities. His bill would prohibit direct contact between big cats and the public and require the USDA to write public-safety regulations for exhibitor licensees.Jerry Moran (Wichita Business Journal) Moran gets award from U.S. Chamber: Rep. Jerry Moran, R-Hays, has been honored for supporting pro-growth policies in the United States Congress. The award was presented to Moran by the Kansas Chamber on behalf of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Moran represents the states First Congressional District. Todd Tiahrt(Wichita Eagle) Business, government to connect at event: ocal businesses interested in doing business with federal, state or local governments will be able to explore their opportunities at the 2006 Procurement Conference on Sept. 11-12. The conference is sponsored by Rep. Todd Tiahrt, R-Goddard, the Heartland Procurement Technical Assistance Center and the Kansas Small Business Development Center. The event gives businesses a chance to showcase products and services to government agencies.How to contact As always, you can find information to contact members of the Kansas congressional delegation here.