Pool closed briefly after feces found in water

The Lawrence Aquatic Center had to be cleared Tuesday afternoon for about 30 minutes after fecal matter was found in the pool.

The matter was cleaned up and chlorine levels were raised slightly, city aquatics supervisor Jimmy Gibbs said. It was not necessary to conduct hyperchlorination, which would have required the pool to close for the rest of the day.

Earlier this month hyperchlorination was necessary because diarrhea was found in the pool. Tuesday’s “accident” wasn’t diarrhea, Gibbs said.

The city has adopted strict policies for dealing with such events after last year’s outbreak of cryptosporidium, a parasite that can cause diarrhea.

Governors honor Lawrence resident

Joe Harkins, of Lawrence, a longtime state official, was recognized this past weekend by the National Governors Assn. for his service to the state of Kansas.

“Joe Harkins embodies all the elements of an outstanding public servant,” Gov. Kathleen Sebelius said.

During a 40-year career, Harkins has served in leadership roles in Democratic and Republican administrations.

Sebelius named Harkins acting director of the Kansas Water Office in 2003, where he tackled long-term planning for water needs for the state.

In May, Sebelius named Harkins as the director of natural resource policy.

The National Governors Assn. distinguished service award is given to eight people nationally each year.

Brownback to speak at GOP convention

U.S. Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., is on a list of additional speakers for the 2004 Republican National Convention.

The Republican National Committee this week released the names of nine more names comprising a second group of program speakers. Also included on the list is U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole, R-N.C., the wife of former U.S. Sen. Bob Dole.

The convention begins Aug. 30 in New York City and concludes Sept. 2.