Lloyd Davies, deputy state fire marshal, reported that Lawrence was the scene of four dozen arson cases in the spring of 1970. The most spectacular blaze was the Memorial Union fire, which caused approximately $2 million in damage. Other buildings affected included an attorney’s home, the home of a county judge, a savings and loan building and a downtown furniture store.

Union director Frank Burge commented on the Union fire, outlining the damage that had occurred. Slightly less than half the total area of the building had suffered some damage, while about 40,000 square feet had been totally destroyed.

Activities were underway for Kansas University’s 98th commencement. The June candidate list for all degrees totaled 2,484, with students representing 47 states, the District of Columbia and 51 foreign countries.

Several KU seniors and a member of the Board of Regents were planning to meet to discuss the Peace Commencement Fund and the political candidates supported by the fund. The group had raised about $800 so far, through faculty donations and through sales of armbands offered for commencement participants to wear in support of peace.