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The new state-run arts commission announced funding opportunities for Kansas arts agencies Tuesday.

The 7-month-old Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission was created in response to the backlash over Gov. Sam Brownback's veto of arts funding in 2011. The new programs require grant seekers to propose projects that create jobs and grow the Kansas economy.

Gov. Sam Brownback is seeking mediation in a lawsuit over school funding.

A district court recently ruled that the state isn't meeting constitutional requirements and needs to increase funding for Kansas schools.

Brownback asked the state Attorney General to seek a hold on the ruling, so all parties involved have time to study solutions. The filings also request the court to appoint a mediator, in attempt to reach an agreement outside of courtroom.

The school funding lawsuit was filed on behalf of students, parents and four school districts.

Kansas Lawmakers considered a series of bills aimed at protecting gun rights Thursday.

One measure would ban local governments from passing laws that restrict the open carry of firearms. Another bill bars the enforcement of federal gun laws in Kansas. 

"The intent of the provision is in the event that a Federal entity would declare gun confiscation, it's hands off if the gun is owned in Kansas," said Patricia Stoneking of the Kansas State Rifle Association.

The bills will now be considered by the House Federal and State Affairs Committee.

Series of gun law bills proposed in Kansas House; Pitt State students oppose concealed carry on campus; New Kansas arts agency accepting grant applications; Gov requests hold on school funding suit.

Bill Would Bar Enforcement Of Federal Gun Laws In Kansas

State Lawmakers are considering a series of bills aimed at protecting gun rights.

One measure would ban local governments from passing laws that restrict the open carry of firearms.

I took my mangled friend Teri to Fizz Burgers and Bottles out at 37th and Rock Road before her orthopedic appointment the other day, to cheer her up and to eat something good.

Kansas Senate President Susan Wagle was recognized at the Statehouse Thursday for her support of cancer research.

Megan Phelps-Roper and her sister, Grace Phelps-Roper--granddaughters of Fred Phelps--have left the Westboro Baptist Church and are apologizing for their past behavior. 

Megan Phelps-Roper and her sister, Grace Phelps-Roper, left the controversial Topeka church back in November.  Westboro Baptist Church has gained national attention for, among other things, picketing the funerals of gay people and of soldiers. 

If Kansas' current drought continues through 2013, the severity of the water shortage may rival the bad years of the 1930s and '50s.

The drought is already causing problems and prompting Wichita city officials to think about water rationing.

The drought is bad by several measures. This year's winter wheat harvest will likely be well below normal, due to low rain during planting last fall.

Ten nonprofit groups and public housing agencies in Kansas have been awarded $1.2 million to help renters find affordable housing.

The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation announced the grants Wednesday. They say the funds can be used on subsidies for renters or to help them pay utilities and security deposits. 

The award money comes from the federal government but the grants are administered by the state's housing corporation, an independent agency with a board appointed by the governor.