Winter weather

We Kansans can empathize with our east- and west-coast friends. We've seen and experienced the weather that they're currently mucking through--maybe not the mudslides, but the storms, snow, and ice. Been there. Luckily, Kansas government is prepared this winter to help when it hits the Midwest. (As we all know, it will eventually.) Take a look at how your government is preparing your community for the inevitable.

Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, Lightning : Nature's Most Violent Storms : a Preparedness Guide
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/brochures/ttl.pdf
(Issued by the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross, a 16-page booklet in pdf format that can be printed off and distributed to schools, libraries, government offices and others)

Winter weather- create a preparedness kit with the help of FEMA:
http://www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/winter.html

Travel and weather

Check the roads before you leave home from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT):
http://511.ksdot.org/KanRoadPublic_VE/Default.aspx

Find more travel information from KDOT:
http://www.ksdot.org/offTransInfo/511Info/511traffictravel.asp

Are You Ready?
http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/index.shtm
(Issued by FEMA, Federal Emergency Management Administration, a guide for communities on preparing for disasters. Documents and kits are available in various formats and the guide is also printed in Spanish)

NOAA's All Hazard Monitor
http://www.noaawatch.gov/
Storm Prediction Center
http://www.spc.noaa.gov/index.html
(Fire, flood, drought and storms… the National Weather Service has it all here)

An Introduction to Storm Observation and Reporting
http://www.srh.noaa.gov/oun/stormspotting/
("Storm Spotting 101" from the National Weather Service Forecasting Office, Norman, OK)

FEMA For Kids
http://www.fema.gov/kids/index.htm
(Information on disaster preparedness and response for children)

Kansas Severe Weather Information Sources

KSReady.Gov
http://www.ksready.gov/
(Kansas state and regional networks/agencies working together on disaster preparedness)

Tornado FAQ
http://www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/
(From the National Weather Service)

National Weather Service Offices Around the Region Serving Kansans
www.weather.gov/topeka
www.weather.gov/wichita
www.weather.gov/dodgecity
www.weather.gov/goodland
www.weather.gov/kansascity
www.weather.gov/springfield
www.weather.gov/hastings

Lightning Safety
http://www.accesskansas.org/ksadjutantgeneral/Disaster-Emergency/Lightning%20Safety/Lightning%20Safety.htm
(Kansas Adjutant General's Department)

Regents Admission Requirements

Recent articles and news stories have reported on changes in the admission standards at Kansas' Regents schools. These standards, passed by the Kansas Board of Regents on December 15 will have an impact on freshmen entering high school in 2011. Below is information on the changes that will take place as well as current information on admissions.

KANSAS BOARD OF REGENTS
December 15, 2010 News Release
http://www.kansasregents.org/board_approves_new_state_university_admissions_standards
(Announces the upcoming changes in admissions standards. Also provides information on the background of admission standards in Kansas, current admission standards, the new standards for 2011 admissions and a link to the December 15-16 Board Meeting Agenda document)

• Admission Requirements for State Universities
• Qualified Admissions Curriculum
• Qualified Admissions FAQs
• Approved Qualified Admissions Curricula at High Schools
• Qualified Admissions Regulations
• How and When to Update Curriculum
• Kansas Scholars Program (pdf pamphlet)

KANSAS UNIVERSITIES ADMISSIONS WEB PAGES
(View the current admission requirements at the six Regents universities)

• Emporia State University
• Fort Hays State University
• Kansas State University
• Pittsburg State University
• University of Kansas
• Wichita State University

....

A New Administration

The New Year will ring in a change to the Office of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the Governor’s Cabinet. The Kansas Constitution requires a special staff, called the transition team, to ease the changeover from one administration to another. Kansas Statutes 75-133 through 75-137 dictate how the transition team is to be funded and utilized by the incoming and outgoing governors.

You can find the text of KSA 75-133 through 75-137 at:
http://www.kslegislature.org/legsrv-statutes/index.do

Information on the inaugural events for Sam Brownback can be found at:
http://www.brownbackinaugural.com/

Contact Governor-elect Sam Brownback’s office at:
transition.team@ks.gov

Articles regarding the transition team:
Pittsburg Morning Sun
Kansas City Star

Official Kansas Governor's website:
http://governor.ks.gov/

List of current Executive branch boards, commissions and department members:
http://www.kssos.org/forms/communication/boards.pdf

Article contact: Kim Harp

Online shopping safety tips

It has been reported that the Monday after Thanksgiving set records for internet sales. This holiday season many individuals are choosing to shop online rather than fight the crowds and weather. Online shopping is fun, easy, and can be done quickly, but it does come with some risks. Here are some safety tips from the State Library and other state and federal agencies to keep you and yours safe and happy this season.

Protect your online identity with these tips from the Kansas Attorney General:

http://www.ksag.org/page/internet-fraud and

http://www.netsafekansas.com/home/

Federal Trade Commission tips:

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/tech/online.shtm

What to do if you've been a victim of identity theft:

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft//consumers/defend.html

Tips brought to you by a conglomerate of Federal agencies:

http://www.onguardonline.gov

Research the reliability of your online store at the Better Business Bureau:
http://www.bbb.org/online/consumer/default.aspx

Check for the Verisign logo or the Better Business Bureau logo on the sites where you shop:
http://www.verisign.com/index.html

Tips from the U.S. Postal Service regarding mail fraud:

https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/

Giving to charity this season? Ensure your dollars are going to the cause you wish to support at the Kansas Secretary of State's site:

http://www.kscharitycheck.org/

Article contact: Kim Harp

Caffeine and Alcohol

Last week, the FDA announced findings that alcoholic energy drinks containing high of amounts caffeine and malt liquor were unsafe and issued warnings to the producers of such beverages. Monday, the Kansas Alcohol and Beverage Control (ABC) division announced that alcoholic energy drinks such as Four Loko, are banned and should be removed from shelves.

Kansas Statute Annotated 41-210 states the Director of the Kansas Alcohol and Beverage Control "...shall have broad discretionary powers to govern the traffic in alcoholic liquors and to enforce strictly all the provisions of this act in the interest of sanitation, purity of products, truthful representation and honest dealings in such manner as generally will promote the public health and welfare. All valid rules and regulations adopted under the provisions of this act shall be absolutely binding upon all licensees and enforceable by the director of alcoholic beverage control through the power of suspension or revocation of licenses."

Four other states have issued similar bans: Michigan, Utah, Oklahoma and Washington.

Letter from Thomas W. Groneman, Director of Alcohol and Beverage Control, directing liquor stores to remove caffeinated alcoholic beverages:

http://www.ksrevenue.org/pdf/AlchEnergyRescind.pdf

Press release from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding caffeinated energy drinks:
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm234109.htm

More information on caffeinated malt beverages from the FDA:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodIngredientsPackaging/ucm190366.htm

The brands included in the FDA's warning:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodIngredientsPackaging/ucm233755.htm#core

Fact sheet from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) on the dangers of mixing energy drinks and alcohol:
http://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/cab.htm

News related to alcoholic energy drinks:

CNN:
http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/11/17/alcohol.caffeine.drinks/index.html?iref=allsearch

New York Times:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/27/us/27drink.html

Los Angeles Times:

http://www.latimes.com/health/os-caffeine-alcohol-mix-20101118,0,277094.story

The Wichita Eagle:
http://www.kansas.com/2010/11/22/1600064/state-bans-four-loko-other-caffeinated.html#storylink=omni_popular

The Kansas City Star:
http://www.kansascity.com/2010/11/22/2463028/kansas-announces-immediate-ban.html

Article contact: Kim Harp

Clean Out Your Refrigerator

Thanksgiving is coming. You know what that means: friends and family visiting, lots of food to buy and prepare. The day arrives, and you wade into the refrigerator looking for the chilled cranberry sauce. Where is it? Behind the container of Greek yogurt, that expired (is “use by” really that important?) 2 weeks ago? Maybe the cranberry sauce is lurking behind the carton of Chinese takeout from last week that you were going to eat for lunch … on Monday. Oops!

November 15th was National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day. This annual event originated in 1995 by Whirlpool and is a good time to demonstrate just how varied and informative government documents can be. And though November 15th is past it’s never too late to take care of those culinary treasures in your refrigerator which have lost a bit of their nutritional luster.

So, grab a strong trash bag, don your plastic yellow gloves and put on your air filter face mask. But first, check out the treasure trove of government information below.


Food Safety from the USDA

Refrigeration and Food Safety
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/factsheets/Refrigeration_&_Food_Safety/index.asp

Food Product Dating
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/factsheets/Food_Product_Dating/index.asp

Fall and Winter Food Safety
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/factsheets/Countdown_to_the_Holiday/index.asp

What does “Fresh” turkey really mean?
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/Poultry_Label_Says_Fresh/index.asp

Removing Odors from Refrigerators and Freezers
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/PDF/Removing_Odors_from_Refrigerators_and_Freezers.pdf

More Fact Sheets on food safety:
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/index.asp

Refrigerator and Freezer Storage Chart
http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/storagetimes.html

Frozen Foods and Power Outages
http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/frozen_food.html

FoodSafety’s Channel on YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/user/USDAFoodSafety
Lots about turkey right now


Regulation of refrigerators and freezers

Refrigerator Safety Act
http://www.cpsc.gov/BUSINFO/Rsa.pdf

Warnings about children and unused refrigerators
http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PUBS/5072.html

Recalls by product type (freezer, refrigerator)
http://www.cpsc.gov/cgi-bin/prod.aspx
or all household products
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/category/household.html


Energy Efficiency

What is the Energy Star program http://www.energystar.gov/ , and does your refrigerator or freezer qualify?
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_find_es_products

How to Buy an Energy-Efficient Home Appliance
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/homes/rea07.shtm

Find a qualified refrigerator or freezer
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=refrig.search_refrigerators

Federal Trade Commission, Appliance Energy Data
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/eande/appliances/fridge.htm

Appliance labeling FAQs
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/eande/faq.htm

Incidentally, November 29 is “Throw Out Your Leftovers Day”. After reading through these government documents, I bet you will already have taken care of that!

Article contact: Cindy Roupe

Kansas Commission on Veterans' Affairs

The first sentence of the Mission Statement of the Kansas Commission on Veterans' Affairs states that "the mission of the Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs (KCVA) is to provide Kansas veterans, their relatives, and other eligible dependents with information, advice, direction, and assistance through the coordination of programs and services in the fields of education, health, vocational guidance and placement, and economic security."

As an advocate, resource center and service agency for military veterans and their families the Kansas Commission on Veterans' Affairs provides a wide range of programs which benefit clientele statewide whose service time ranges from World War II to newly completed service within any branch of the U.S. Military.

Below are links to some of the programs and services offered by the Commission:

KANSAS COMMISION ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS HOME PAGE
http://www.kcva.org/

CONTACT INFORMATION
http://www.kcva.org/contact.shtml
(Address, phone and fax numbers, email and comment form)

KCVA SERVICE OFFICE LOCATIONS
http://www.kcva.org/vs/office_locations.shtml
(The Commission has field and service offices in Colby, Garden City, Fort Dodge, Wichita, Winfield, Independence, Lawrence, Kansas City, Junction City, Salina, Emporia and Topeka)

VETERANS' BENEFITS
http://www.kcva.org/vb/
(Information on: Disability Benefits, Dependents' and Survivors' Benefits, Burial Benefits, Health Care, Education and Training, Home Loans, Life Insurance, Military Distinctive License Plates, Filing Claims, Appealing Claims, Medals, DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), Prescription Drug Coverage, and Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment)

VETERAN SERVICES
http://www.kcva.org/vs/index.shtml
(Includes contacts and information on: Medical treatment, Claims assistance, the Persian Gulf War Health Initiative, Ionizing radiation exposure and Type II Diabetes treatment support for some Vietnam War era veterans.

VETERAN EDUCATION SERVICES
http://www.kcva.org/ves/
(financial support for veterans seeking further education at colleges/universities, vocational/technical schools, apprenticeship programs, other on-the-job training programs and flight schools)

MILITARY FAMILY SUPPORT
http://www.kcva.org/mfs/
(Lists of organizations which give support to military families)

OPERATION RECOGNITION
http://www.kcva.org/or/
("The State of Kansas sponsors "Operation Recognition" to honor World War II and Korean era veterans who left school to join the military and never received a high school diploma")

KANSAS SOLDIER'S HOME
http://www.kcva.org/sh/
(A care center for Kansas veterans located in Fort Dodge, about five miles southwest of Dodge City)

KANSAS VETERAN'S HOME
http://www.kcva.org/vh/
(A care center located in Winfield)

KANSAS CEMETERY PROGRAM
http://www.kcva.org/cp/history.shtml
("Senate Bill 19 was passed in 1999 authorizing the Kansas Commission of Veterans Affairs to establish, operate, and maintain a state veterans cemetery system, to serve the veterans, spouses, and eligible dependents of the veterans of Kansas")

KANSAS STATE SERVICES
Kansas Military Bill of Rights and other services provided by the State
Includes the following services and benefits provided by the State of Kansas:

• Funeral Picketing
• Pay Differential
• Activation Payment
• Governor's Military Council
• Tuition Assistance
• In State Tuition
• In-State Tuition for Military Family Member
• Kansas Military Service Scholarship
• Refund or Credit for Tuition
• Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses
• Spouse Employment
• Emergency Relief
• State Hiring
• State Agency Review
• State Income Tax Filings
• Business Tax Credits
• Vehicle Registration
• Registration Grace Period
• Grants to Veteran Service Organizations
• Annual Hunting License
• Permit Refund
• Elk Draw
• Deployment Refund
• Free Vital Statistics Records
• Open Records
• Professional License
• Armory Renovations
• Kansas Lottery
• Veteran's Reunion
• Kansas Public Employees Retirement System Military Benefits

Article contact: Bill Sowers
(Check out recent additions to our collection)

Drawing the Lines and Divvying up the State

Now that the election has come and gone and votes have been tallied, one of the next tasks for the State Legislature is redistricting and apportionment. During the process of redistricting, the Legislature will use the new 2010 census population data to re-draw Kansas House, Kansas Senate, Kansas Board of Education and the state's four Congressional districts. As population shifts, counties may gain or lose representation in the State Legislature or Congress. The final drawing of boundaries will occur after the adjournment of the 2012 legislative session.

Public Law 94-171, enacted by Congress in December 1975, requires the Census Bureau to provide state legislatures with the small area census population tabulations necessary for legislative redistricting.

The Legislative Redistricting Advisory Committee has already begun work on compiling resources for the Legislature.

Members of the Redistricting Advisory Committee:
http://skyways.lib.ks.us/ksleg/KLRD/2010CommMembership/2010-redist-ad-grp.pdf

Find maps, demographic tables and profiles for current Kansas House and Senate districts enacted by the 2002 Legislature. The population information was derived from the 2000 US Census of Population and Housing. The same information is available for Kansas' 10 State Board of Education and four Congressional districts:

http://skyways.lib.ks.us/ksleg/KLRD/LegisDist.htm

Find your Legislative, Congressional and Board of Education district numbers:

http://www.ipsr.ku.edu/ksdata/vote/

See the data available to the Legislature to use to help determine district boundaries:
http://www.census.gov/rdo/data/redistricting_data.html and
http://www.census.gov/rdo/data/state_legislative_district_data.html

Guide to the 2010 Redistricting Data from the U.S. Census:
http://www.census.gov/rdo/pdf/StrengthInNumbers2010.pdf

Learn more about the timeline for redistricting in Kansas from the Legislative Research Department:
http://skyways.lib.ks.us/ksleg/KLRD/Publications/2010Briefs/s-s-2-redistricting-timeline.pdf

As prescribed by the Constitution, the first decennial census was conducted in 1790. Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of State at the time, directed the enumeration. Since then, the census has been taken in each year ending in a zero digit. Thus, the most recent enumeration (Census 2000) was the last census of the 20th century.

Learn more about apportionment at the U.S. Census:

http://www.census.gov/population/www/censusdata/apportionment/index.html

Read the formula used to compute apportionment:
http://www.census.gov/population/www/censusdata/apportionment/computing.html

History of apportionment in the United States:
http://www.census.gov/population/www/censusdata/apportionment/history.html

View current state data for Kansas from the State Data Center of Kansas:

http://www.kslib.info/sdc/

Article contact: Kim Harp

VOTE!

The general election is less than a week away. You've heard and read the ads, debates, news reports, pamphlets and speeches. The most important opinion is still to come... YOURS! The only way you can make that opinion heard is by voting.

The Secretary of State has a great site with information on how/where/when to vote at:
VOTE KANSAS!
http://www.voteks.org/main.html
The site includes information on the voting process, accessibility, the complaint process and contact information if you have other questions or comments. Among the helpful links on this site are:

SEARCH YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION INFORMATION
https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/

LOCATE YOUR POLLING PLACE
(Do a search to find out where you vote)
https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/

ABSENTEE BALLOT SEARCH
https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
Don't forget that we're also voting on two State Constitutional Amendments this election. The Secretary of State provides links to the proposed amendments here:

Proposed Amendments to the Kansas State Constitution
http://www.kssos.org/other/constitutional_question_english.html

Article contact: Bill Sowers
(Check out recent additions to our collection)

Prison Beds in Kansas

On October 9th, The Kansas City Star reported that Kansas had run out of beds for male prisoners. The Kansas Sentencing Commission (KSC) and the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) have been studying this trend and making projections for some years. KDOC Secretary Roger Werholtz is asking the Kansas Legislature for extra funding for more beds, parolee programming and alternative placements. This issue is likely to be addressed this next year.

KSC Ten Year KDOC Inmate Custody Classification Projection
http://www.accesskansas.org/ksc/documents/FY2011_KDOC_Inmate_Custody_Classification_Projection_Report.pdf

Letter from the Chairman of the Kansas Sentencing Commission regarding the current state of available beds and inmate reduction
http://www.accesskansas.org/ksc/documents/Prison_Bed_Reduction_Letter_to_Governor_w_attachment_2_25_2010.pdf

Report of the Joint Committee on Corrections and Juvenile Justice Oversight to the 2010 Kansas Legislature

http://skyways.lib.ks.us/ksleg/KLRD/2009CommRepts/2009CRto2010leg.pdf

Monthly Offender Population Report from the Department of Corrections

http://www.doc.ks.gov/publications/End%20of%20Month%202010.pdf

Statistical Summary- FY 2009 Community Corrections Offender Population
http://www.doc.ks.gov/community-corrections/resources/FY09%20CC%20Summary%20Data.pdf

Article contact: Kim Harp

The U.S. Supreme Court

"The Supreme Court enjoys all but free rein in selecting which cases to review. From the end of one term in the summer until the start of the next, on the first Monday in October, the work of the court is to sift through thousands of petitions from parties…” (New York Times)

Each year in early October the Nation, if not the world, turns its attention to nine men and women meeting in a stately building on East Capitol Street in Washington D.C. The first Monday in October is designated by U.S. Statute as the opening of a new term of the United States Supreme Court, the highest court in the land, and there is often great interest in knowing what cases the Court has chosen to hear and the eventual outcome of the court's decisions.

This year especially interest in the proceedings of the Court has increased in Kansas due to a case involving the Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas. Local media have focused on the arguments of both parties and Kansans have read and listened to explanations of how cases are presented to the Supreme Court and decided by the Court.

Below are some links with further information on the U.S. Supreme Court, its duties, history, members and actions. Also included are links to some media information on the case called "Albert Snyder, Petitioner v. Fred W. Phelps, Sr. et al."

About the Supreme Court
http://www.supremecourt.gov/about/about.aspx

Court Procedure
http://www.supremecourt.gov/about/procedures.aspx

Supreme Court Firsts and Other Trivia
http://www.supremecourt.gov/about/oath/supremecourtoathfirstsandtrivia2009.aspx

Associate Justice Elena Kagan’s investiture
http://www.supremecourt.gov/publicinfo/press/investiture/investiture_kagan.aspx

“No candid cameras in the Supreme Court”
Fort Worth Star-Telegram October 5, 2010
http://www.star-telegram.com/2010/10/05/2523030/no-candid-cameras-in-the-
supreme.html

Has The Supreme Court Limited Americans' Access To Courts?
http://purl.access.gpo.gov/GPO/LPS125052
( Hearing before the Committee on the Judiciary, United States Senate, 111th Congress, First Session, December 2, 2009)

A Bill To Permit The Televising Of Supreme Court Proceedings
http://purl.access.gpo.gov/GPO/LPS102281
(hearing before the Committee on the Judiciary, United States Senate, 110th Congress, Second Session, September 8, 2008)

As the court begins its 2010 term, a case with Kansas connections has received national and world notice

Albert Snyder, Petitioner v. Fred W. Phelps, Sr. et al
http://www.supremecourt.gov/Search.aspx?FileName=/docketfiles/09-751.htm

“Snyder v. Phelps a ‘big’ case”
Topeka Capital Journal October 3, 2010
http://cjonline.com/news/local/2010-10-03/snyder_v_phelps_a_big_case

“High court struggles with funeral protest case” Wichita Eagle October 6, 2010
http://www.kansas.com/2010/10/06/1529007/high-court-to-hear-military-funeral.html

“U.S. court considers anti-gay protests at funerals”
Toronto Sun October 6, 2010
http://www.torontosun.com/news/world/2010/10/06/15602881.htmls/world/2010/10/06/15602881.html

Article contact: Cindy Roupe (Resources); Bill Sowers (Text)
(Check out recent additions to our collection)

Water, water everywhere...

Living in a plains state makes Kansans unique in their uncanny sense of the weather and of water resources. Kansas has its watersheds, 14 reservoirs, and 12 river basins that help to keep metropolitan areas in drinking water and farm fields irrigated. The Kansas Water Office and Kansas Water Authority are charged with maintaining and preserving and preparing Kansas waterways. The Water Office coordinates the Kansas water planning process in concert with the Kansas Water Authority which advises the Kansas Legislature and the Governor in policy-making. This week, the Legislature meets in interim committee meetings regarding the water planning process. They will be looking at water supply and conservation issues, including the nature of the supply, where and whom it serves, and what it will look like in 10-20 years. Learn more about your Kansas government's plan for our water resources.

Kansas Water Office home page:
http://www.kwo.org/

Kansas Water Authority and its members:
http://www.kwo.org/KWA/Kansas%20Water%20Authority.htm

2009 Kansas Water Plan:
http://www.kwo.org/Kansas%20Water%20Plan/Kansas%20Water%20Plan.htm

2010 Water Plan Status:
http://www.kwo.org/Reports%20%26%20Publications/Rpt_2010_StatusReport_012509_ab_ss.pdf

2010 Annual Report to the Governor and the Legislature:
http://www.kwo.org/KWA/Rpt_2010_KWA_Rpt_Gov_Leg.pdf

More reports and publications by the Kansas Water Office:
http://www.kwo.org/Reports%20%26%20Publications/Reports%20and%20Publications.htm

Kansas Department of Agriculture- Division of Water Resources:
http://www.ksda.gov/dwr/

Kansas Geological Survey- Water Resources:
http://www.kgs.ku.edu/Hydro/hydroIndex.html

Kansas State Conservation Commission (SCC):
http://www.scc.ks.gov/

Article contact: Kim Harp

Mental Health Awareness Week, October 3-9

October 3-9 is Mental Health Awareness Week. During this upcoming week mental health agencies and groups as well as supportive individuals will offer programs, web pages and public walks to raise public awareness in state and local communities about mental illness and the need for treatment and recovery.

Below are a few links to resources for Kansans on mental health and mental illness.

Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services
Mental Health Services
http://www.srs.ks.gov/agency/mh/Pages/MHServ.aspx
(The Kansas Mental Health System offers an array of services for children and adults in need of mental health treatment)

Community Mental Health Centers and/or Consumer Run Organizations
http://www.srs.ks.gov/services/Pages/MapCMHC.aspx
(Use the clickable map or search box to locate centers and organizations that may be of help)

Directory of Mental Health Resources in Kansas, 2010
http://www.srs.ks.gov/agency/mh/Documents/MHDirectory.pdf
(A guide to statewide and community mental health services in Kansas. Includes locations, website URLs, email addresses, telephone numbers and names in assisting Kansans find help. this is the 20th edition of this excellent publication by the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services)

National Alliance on Mental Illness
http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?section=by_illness

The National Alliance's website's website includes general information on the following forms of mental illness:

• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
• Bipolar Disorder
• Borderline Personality Disorder
• Dissociative Disorders
• Dual Diagnosis and Integrated Treatment of Mental Illness and Substance Abuse Disorder
• Eating Disorders
• Major Depression
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Panic Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Schizoaffective Disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Seasonal Affective Disorder
• Suicide
• Tourette's Syndrome

National Alliance on Mental Illness - Kansas
http://www.nami.org/MSTemplate.cfm?Site=NAMI_Kansas
(This is NAMI's presence in Kansas)

SOME KANSAS BASED ORGANIZATIONS

Association of Community Mental Health Centers of Kansas
http://www.acmhck.org/

Mental Health America of the Heartland
http://www.mhah.org/

Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas
http://www.mhasck.org/

Article contact: Bill Sowers
(Check out recent additions to our collection)

Of algae and other things

Blue green algae blooms (cyanobacteria) have been in the news recently. Although algae blooms are a natural phenomenon and are caused by certain weather patterns, they can make people, livestock and pets ill. Are you concerned which lakes and ponds you can take your children or pets swimming in? Which waters its safe to fish. Do you wonder what algae blooms are and how they'll affect the public drinking water? The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is charged with monitoring waters in Kansas and informing the public which waters to avoid.

KDHE overview of what algae blooms are:
http://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm

Center for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) overview of cyanobacteria:
http://www.cdc.gov/hab/cyanobacteria/about.htm

CDC's facts about harmful algal blooms:
http://www.cdc.gov/hab/cyanobacteria/facts.htm

Current algae bloom advisories:
http://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/algae_advisories.htm

Examples of the signage you will see at waterways that are closed due to algae:
http://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/download/BGA_Signs.pdf

Explanation of symptoms brought on by ingestion of blue green algae:
http://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/algae_policy.htm

* Be sure to respect the warnings, soon the algae will die off naturally and activities can be resumed.

Article contact: Kim Harp

Supporting our Troops

Last night it was announced that combat will end in Iraq. Many soldiers and their families are encouraged by the thought that they may be returning home. This prompts major changes in a soldier's life and the lives of his or her family. As a citizenry, we need to know how we can continue to support our troops as they readjust to civilian life. Learn more about the Federal and State resources and services which are available to veterans and families in finding job opportunities, counseling, and health services.

"Because part of ending a war responsibly is standing by those who have fought it" -President Barack Obama

President Obama's message regarding the end of combat missions in Iraq:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/08/31/president-obamas-address-end-combat-mission-iraq

Welcome home events:
http://www.volunteer.va.gov/Welcome_Home_Events.asp

Benefits to U.S. Veterans and their families from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs:
http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/

Benefits for returning veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom:
http://www.oefoif.va.gov/

Army and National Guard emergency relief:
http://www.aerhq.org/

Army Career and Alumni Program:
http://www.acap.army.mil/

Education and GI Bill benefits:
http://www.gibill.va.gov/

Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Program:
http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/

Jobsite for Vets, VetSuccess:
http://vetsuccess.gov/

Kansas Military Bill of Rights:
http://governor.ks.gov/issues-a-initiatives/military-and-veterans/479-kansas-military-bill-of-rights

Kansas Military Service Scholarship Program:
http://www.kansasregents.org/scholarships_and_grants

Kansas Commission on Veterans' Affairs:
http://roadwaytocollege.com/go/page.pl/000000A/http/www.kcva.org/vb/

Benefits available to families of Kansas Veterans:
http://roadwaytocollege.com/go/page.pl/000000A/http/www.kcva.org/mfs/

Veterans Upward Bound- KU program:
http://roadwaytocollege.com/go/page.pl/000000A/http/www2.ku.edu/~vub/

National Center for PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder):
http://www.ptsd.va.gov/index.asp

Other organizations with benefits for veterans and families:
American Legion:
http://www.legion.org/

Kansas American Legion:
http://www.ksamlegion.org/

Veterans of Foreign Wars Kansas:
http://www.vfwkansas.org/

Disabled American Veterans:
http://www.dav.org/

If you are a veteran in emotional crisis and need help RIGHT NOW, call toll-free: 1-800-273-8255.

Food Safety

With over 1,000 cases of salmonella poisoning across the country and the recall of about a half billion eggs from stores, restaurants and homes food production safety and inspection have come to the forefront of the news lately.

As Federal and state health officials continue to investigate it's good to know what resources are available to you on food safety. We've included some links below to state and federal information:

INFORMATION ON THE CURRENT OUTBREAK AND RECALL

Salmonella Enteritidis Outbreak in Shell Eggs
http://www.fda.gov/Food/NewsEvents/WhatsNewinFood/ucm222684.htm
(From the US Food and Drug Administration's What's New in Food)

Investigation Update: Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Enteritidis Infections Associated with Shell Eggs
http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/enteritidis/
(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's web page on salmonella)

How can I tell if my eggs have been recalled?
http://www.fda.gov/Food/NewsEvents/WhatsNewinFood/ucm223536.htm
(From the US Food and Drug Administration's What's New in Food)

FoodSafety.gov
http://www.foodsafety.gov/
(Information from the federal government on home food safety, food poisoning, inspections and compliance, etc.)

KANSAS FOOD SAFETY

Kansas Food Safety and Consumer Protection
http://www.ksfoodsafety.org/
(Kansas Department of Health and Environment)

Kansas Department of Agriculture
http://www.ksda.gov/food_safety/
(The Department's Food Safety and Lodging web page. Includes information on dairy inspection, meat and poultry inpection, as well as a food safety and lodging inspection results database)

Kansas Department of Health and Envrionment
http://www.kdheks.gov/epi/index.html
(The Department's Bureau of Surveillance & Epidemiology web page. Includes information on disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and education. Among the duties of the the Bureau is the investigation of foodborne ilnesses)

GENERAL FOOD SAFETY INFORMATION

Keep Food Safe! Food Safety Basics
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/factsheets/Keep_Food_Safe_Food_Safety_Basics/index.asp
(US Dept of Agriculture)

K-State Extension Food Safety
http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/foodsafety/DesktopDefault.aspx
(A website from Kansas State University educating consumers on safe food handling with food preparation, food preservation, food service and more)

Article contact: Bill Sowers
(Check out recent additions to our collection)

League of Kansas Municipalities

2010 marks the 100th anniversary of the League of Kansas Municipalities (LKM). The League is not a state government agency but "a voluntary, nonpartisan organization of over 500 Kansas cities. It operates as a public agency and is defined by state law as an instrumentality of its member cities. The powers and duties of the League are prescribed by state law and in bylaws adopted by the voting delegates of its member cities." [from the League's website]

Besides working as an advocate and resource center for municipalities in Kansas the League of Kansas Municipalities also offers up a treasure trove of information on city-related topics, much of which is available to the general public on the League's website.

Below are links to resources on the LKM's website along with links to some other local government organizations in Kansas:

LEAGUE OF KANSAS MUNICIPALITIES (Main Page)
http://www.lkm.org/

Directory of Kansas Public Officials
http://www.lkm.org/directory/
(The Directory allows searching by city, county, public school district and by personal name. There is also a clickable map. General contact information is supplied not only for local officials but for state and federal legislative representatives in the city sections too.

Sample Ordinances
http://www.lkm.org/resources/ordinances/
(Grouped by topics such as animals, cell phones and motor vehicles, concealed carry and zoning the League provides simple examples of ordinances which can be modified by local government attorneys to meet the needs of municipalities)

Legislative Guide
http://www.lkm.org/legislative/guide/
(The League puts out an annual guide to the Legislature with contact information as well as information on committee membership, legislative leadership, key session dates, and support staff contacts)

Fiscal Year Budget Tips
http://www.lkm.org/resources/budgettips/
(Some basic information on taxes, government funds and budget preparation to assist local officials in preparing their operating budgets for the coming year)

Kansas Cities on the Web
http://www.lkm.org/links/local/cities.php
(The League provides links to over 200 official city websites in Kansas)

LEAGUE PUBLICATIONS

Kansas Government Journal
http://www.lkm.org/journal/
(Includes an online archive of past articles going back to 1914)

League News
http://www.lkm.org/leaguenews/
(Newsletter with back issues available online)

Comprehensive Publications List
http://www.lkm.org/publications/
(Includes League of Kansas Municipalities publications available for sale)

Legislative Alerts
http://www.lkm.org/legislative/alerts/
("Breaking news" bulletins)

Standard Traffic Ordinance (STO)
Uniform Public Offense Code (UPOC)
http://www.lkm.org/publications/stoupoc.php
(Order form link page)

OTHER LOCAL GOVERNMENT RESOURCES

Kansas Association of Chiefs of P0lice
http://www.kacp.cc/

Kansas Association of Code Enforcement
http://kace-ks.org/

Kansas Association of Counties
http://www.kansascounties.org/

Kansas Association of Local Health Departments
http://www.kalhd.org/

Kansas Association of School Boards
http://www.kasb.org/

Article contact: Bill Sowers
(Check out recent additions to our collection)

Back to School!

Holidays are enticing only for the first week or so. After that, it is no longer such a novelty to rise late and have little to do.
- Margaret Laurence

Yes, it's that time of year when parents are shuffling through school supply lists and checking to see whether back packs are still intact. Preschoolers are psyching themselves up for their first year at Kindergarten. Big kids are making their last few visits to the pool and getting excited to see old friends. High schoolers are squeezing as much sleep as they can out of their last few days of summer. College students are comparing prices on mini-fridges and asking mom to do their laundry one last time. It's also the time of year when your Kansas and local governments are ramping up to tackle another school year.

See Commissioner of Education Dr. Diane DeBacker's welcome back to school message at:
http://www.ksde.org/Default.aspx?tabid=2601

Can't remember which vaccinations your child needs before heading back? Learn more at:
http://www.kdheks.gov/immunize/index.html

Need assistance with preschool tuition?
http://www.srs.ks.gov/agency/ees/Pages/Child_Care/Child%20Care%20and%20Early%20Education.aspx

Learn more about your school or district by reading its "report card":
http://online.ksde.org/rcard/

Read about the Kansas curricular standards at:
http://www.kerc-ks.org/index.aspx

Want to learn online this year? Find a list of Kansas virtual schools at:
http://www.ksde.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=r6o84oLXhio%3d&tabid=455&mid=6785&forcedownload=true

Learn more about the charter school option at:
http://www.ksde.org/Default.aspx?tabid=449

Full list of Kansas education associations and organizations:
http://www.ksde.org/Default.aspx?tabid=1968

Article contact: Kim Harp

The State Library of Kansas

Of all the state and federal agencies that we've covered on this blog, we've neglected to familiarize you with our own, the State Library of Kansas.

What is the State Library of Kansas (SLK)?
The State Library was founded on the basis of the Kansas Territorial Library first funded in 1855. In 1863 the Kansas Legislature made the first appropriations of $2,000 to establish the Kansas State Library. The initial annual salary of the State Librarian was $500. At this time, the State Library was housed in a room in the East wing of the Capitol. In 1900 the State Library was moved to its current site in the North Wing on the third floor of the Capitol.

The State Library’s services have changed and adapted as Kansans' needs have changed. In 1889, the State Library began a traveling library service to serve rural Kansans. In 1964, a system of grants was developed to assist rural libraries. The needs of individuals with low vision are met through the Kansas Talking Books service, begun in the early 1970s. A service to help Kansans obtain important U.S. and Kansas census information began in 1980. The State Library continues to serve the needs of state agencies, legislators, and the general public and will continue to evolve.

Our Mission
In service to Kansas libraries, residents, and government, the State Library of Kansas:

Collects and shares resources and government information;
Delivers information and solutions;
Educates librarians and trustees:
Promotes literacy and reading for everyone; and
Advocates for open and equitable access, intellectual freedom and excellence in library services and support.

Learn more about us and our programs at www.kslib.info

Briefly: what does SLK have and what do they do?

Search SLK's holdings:
http://topekalibraries.info/search~S4

Services and Programs of the State Library:
-Audiobooks, Music and More- website which allows Kansas residents to download audiobooks, ebooks and music to their computers or mobile devices
-online statewide databases- available to all Kansas residents
-In-house research databases- available to visiting patrons
-Talking books services- audio books and devices available to those with low vision or reading disabilities, braille services
-Reference Services
-Kansas Reads to Preschoolers
-Homework Kansas- free online tutoring for Kansas residents K-college
-Grants and funding to local public libraries
-Continuing education for public librarians and library trustees
-Interlibrary Loan
-Library and Trustee Certification
-Letters about Literature
-Kansas Notable Books
-Marketing assistance for libraries

Who does SLK serve?
Namely: YOU! Our patrons also consist of legislators and state government agencies.

Article contact: Kim Harp

Beat the Heat!

Cole Porter put it best, "It's too darn hot!"

As this oppressive heat wave continues we are hearing news stories of tragic deaths associated with the weather. The elderly, children, athletes, joggers, pets and agricultural animals... All are affected by extreme heat.

Below are links to some resources on beating the heat, staying hydrated and taking heed of the signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion:

State Officials Urge Precautions Against Heat
http://blogs.kansas.com/weather/2010/07/20/state-officials-urge-precautions-against-the-heat/
(From Kansas.com, The Wichita Eagle)

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories for Kansas
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/alerts/ks.html
(List of Active Alerts by County provided by the National Weather Service)

National Heat Warnings
http://www.noaawatch.gov/headlines/heat.php
(From the National Weather Service)

Heat: a Major Killer
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/heat/index.shtml
(From the National Weather Service)

Heat Index (Apparent Temperature) Chart
http://www.magazine.noaa.gov/stories/images/heatindexb.jpg
(From the National Weather Service)

Heat Stroke, Children and Cars
http://www.safekids.org/safety-basics/safety-spotlight/never-leave-your-child-alone/
(From Safe Kids.org)

Hot Weather and Vehicles
http://www.kdheks.gov/news/web_archives/2010/06072010.htm
(Pamphlet from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment)

The Heat Is On!
http://ppo.tamuk.edu/ehs/Heat_Stress/heatstress.htm
(Ways in which you can beat the heat in order to protect yourself under hot conditions from Texas A&M University)

Cool Tips for Beating the Heat
http://www.kdheks.gov/heat_alert.htm
(From Kansas Department of Health and Environment)

Precautions for Heat-Related Illness
http://www.kdheks.gov/news/web_archives/2010/07212010.htm
(From Kansas Department of Health and Environment)

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/news/sty/2000/summersafety002.htm
(From K-State Research and Extension)

Hot Weather, Dogs and Outdoor Activities
http://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/jun10/hotdogs62110.html
(From Kansas State University News Services)

Heat-Related Animal Calls on the Rise
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2010/jun/28/heat-related-animal-calls-rise/
(From The Lawrence Journal World)

Extreme Heat and Kansas Cattle
http://www.kansascity.com/2010/07/20/2097286/extreme-heat-takes-toll-on-kansas.html
(From The Kansas City Star)

Article contact: Bill Sowers
(Check out recent additions to our collection)

Have you registered to vote yet?

It's time to start thinking about the August 3, 2010 primary election. Primary elections decide which candidate will be on the general election ballot for each party. The deadline to register to vote for the August Primary is Monday, July 19, 2010. You still have time to get out there and register.

Where can I register?
Libraries, many banks, some grocery stores, while getting your drivers license, Online
https://www.kdor.org/voterregistration/Default.aspx

Step 1. To find your district for Congressional leaders, State Board of Education, and state officials, go to http://www.ipsr.ku.edu/ksdata/vote/ . Type in your address and your current elected officials will pop up, as well as your districts.

Step 2. Once you know your districts you can find out who is running foroffice in your districts at the Secretary of State’s candidate list at:
http://www.kssos.org/elections/elections_upcoming_candidate.asp

Step 3. To find out where you need to go to vote, contact your county election office. A list of offices and their phone numbers is available from the Secretary of State’s website at: http://www.kssos.org/elections/elections_registration_ceo.asp

Another way is to access your personal voter registration information. This will name your polling site. You can find that at: https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/

Step 4. Be sure to mark August 3 on your calendar! If you would like to vote in advance, follow the steps provided at: http://www.kssos.org/elections/elections_registration_voting.html

*For more information on registering to vote and advanced voting go to http://www.voteks.org/

Article contact: Kim Harp

Kansas Wheat

"Wheat was and is the crop of first importance. It is the backbone of our economy and has made Kansas famous around the world." --Erich Freuhauf (KSHS Wheat in Kansas Lesson Plan)

The Kansas Agricultural Statistics Service reported today that 84 percent of the wheat acreage in our state had been cut before rains over the July 4th weekend shut down the harvest.

Besides the nickname, "The Sunflower State," Kansas is also known as "The Wheat State" or "The Breadbasket of the World." About 25 percent of the U.S. hard red winter wheat harvest is grown in Kansas.

"Nearly one-fifth of all wheat grown in the United States is grown in Kansas. Kansas ranks first in the nation in flour milling, wheat gluten production and wheat stored. Roughly one-third of Kansas' 63,000 farmers grow wheat. Normally, Kansas farmers produce about 400 million bushels of wheat a year, with a production value that hovers around $1 billion." [from: Kansas Dept. of Agriculture]

Wheat is a vital part of our economy, culture and history. Below are links to information on Kansas wheat provided by various state and federal agencies.

Kansas Wheat Commission
http://www.kswheat.com/
(The Kansas Wheat Commission is a grower-funded, grower-governed wheat products advocacy organization)
Their site includes:
--Educational Materials
--Information for Buyers and Processors
--Information for Consumers
--Information for Wheat Producers
--Just For Kids
--Kansas Bakeries Directory
--Kansas Wheat Blog
--News
--Online Videos
--Photo Gallery
--Recipes
--Straw Art
--Wheat Facts
--Wheat Mania: All About Wheat

Wheat Page
http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/wheatpage/
(Kansas State University Research and Extension)

Wheat People: Celebrating Kansas Harvest
http://www.kshs.org/exhibits/wheat/wheat.htm
(An online exhibit provided by the Kansas State Historical Society)

Kansas Memory: Wheat
http://www.kansasmemory.org/category/14
(Digitized primary sources provided by the Kansas State Historical Society)

Kansas Wheat History
http://www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/Kansas/Publications/Crops/whthist.pdf (2009 publication by Kansas Agricultural Statistics cooperating with the Kansas Dept. of Agriculture)

Winter Wheat in the Golden Belt of Kansas
http://www.skyways.org/orgs/fordco/malin/
(A transcription of a 1944 history of wheat in Kansas agriculture written by James C. Malin)

Kansas Wheat (FaceBook)
http://www.facebook.com/kansaswheat
(A FaceBook page that promotes wheat growing and growers in the Sunflower State)

Article contact: Bill Sowers
(Check out recent additions to our collection)