ALLEN COUNTY -Law enforcement authorities in Allen County are investigating a series of vandalism on mailboxes over the weekend.
The Allen County Sheriff’s Department reported over 20 mailboxes were damaged on Saturday May 14 in a rural area southeast of Iola.
They are asking the public for help to identify those who may be responsible to contact the sheriff 
or Allen County Crimestoppers.
KU Office of Public Affairs
LAWRENCE — Twenty outstanding sophomores at the University of Kansas will complete a semester seminar on energy with a trip through Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota and Nebraska this month that will include a stop at Yellowstone Park.
The students are all University Scholars and are selected on the basis of academic credentials, commitment to their education, intellectual promise and evaluations by instructors. Their academic disciplines range from biochemistry to strategic communications to English. Students in their second year at KU with a 3.8 cumulative grade point average are invited to apply. In addition to enrolling in the interdisciplinary seminar, the students receive a small scholarship and are paired with mentors in relevant fields from the university community.
The trip from May 15-26 will help the scholars gain authentic experiences with the kinds of natural materials they have been studying as part of their seminar this spring, said Jennifer Roberts, associate professor of geology, who will lead the trip.
“These types of trips help these students refine their already strong higher-order thinking skills, efficient work habits and gain a sense of cultural inclusion,” Roberts said. “As a geologist, I’m familiar with the benefits of field work, and I hope to bring that experience to these outstanding students from a wide array of disciplines.”
The University Scholars Program was founded in the spring of 1982 by Judge Deanell Tacha, then vice chancellor for academic affairs, and the late Professor Francis Heller. More than 700 alumni have gone through the program and achieved success in a wide variety of disciplines.
The 2016 University Scholars are listed below by hometown, major, parents’ names, high school and their mentors.
Sana Cheema: Hays; majoring in biology; Gulraiz and Nazish Cheema; Hays High School; mentored by Aroop Pal in internal medicine.
Mario Balcázar: La Paz, Bolivia; majoring in physics and electrical engineering; Ivaro Balcázar and Claudia Muñoz-Reyes; Saint Andrew’s School; mentored by Shannon Blunt in electrical engineering and computer science.
Julia Balmaceda: Lenexa; majoring in biochemistry with a minor in Spanish; Joaquina and Daniel Balmaceda; Notre Dame de Sion; mentored by Thomas Prisinzano in medicinal chemistry.
Bridgette Befort: Topeka; majoring in chemical engineering; Jay and Merrill Befort; Hayden High School; mentored by Sara Gregg in history.
Megan Hansen: Hutchinson; majoring in English and molecular, cellular, developmental biology; Ron and Traci Hansen; Hutchinson South High School; mentored by Matt Stein, a Lawrence oncologist.
Alex Houston: Lawrence; majoring in political science and environmental studies; Mary Morningstar and Peter Houston; Free State High School; mentored by Uma Outka in the School of Law.
Sebastian Huayamares: Lima, Peru; majoring in chemical engineering and mathematics with a minor in business; Federico Huayamares and Monica Moreno; Lord Byron School; mentored by Stevin Gehrke in chemical engineering.
Brianna Jackson: Overland Park; majoring in human biology; Debbie and Ken Jackson; Blue Valley West High School; mentored by Mike Zabel, a Lawrence cardiologist.
Hannah Johnson: Wichita; majoring in computer science and mathematics; Monica and Brett Johnson; Andover Central High School; mentored by Perry Alexander in electrical engineering and computer science.
Emmaline Lorenzo: Leawood; majoring in chemistry with minors in mathematics and philosophy; Michael and Marilyn Lorenzo; Blue Valley North High School; mentored by Cindy Berrie in chemistry.
Marisa Mitchell: Salina; majoring in environmental studies and English; Mark and Kathleen Mitchell; Salina South High School; mentored by Stacey White in urban planning.
Mikaela Myers: Denver; majoring in marketing with a minor in fine arts; Sean and Jennifer Myers; Regis Jesuit High School; mentored by Cathy Curless in the School of Business.
Brook Nasseri: Topeka; majoring in microbiology and English; Kevin and Nicoel Nasseri; Cair Paravel Latin School; mentored by Laura Mielke in English.
Hanna Ritland: Omaha, Nebraska; majoring in strategic communication with minors in business and dance; John Ritland and Greta Vaught; Omaha Central High School; mentored by Janet Rose in the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications.
Sandra Siomara Sanchez: Overland Park; majoring in history and global and international studies with minors in indigenous studies and East Asian languages and cultures; Jane and Hector Sanchez; Blue Valley West High School; mentored by Steve Hawley in physics and astronomy.
Madison Sargent: Prairie Village; majoring in aerospace engineering; Peter and Susan Sargent; St. Teresa’s Academy; mentored by Ron Barrett-Gonzalez in aerospace engineering.
Emma Tuschhoff: Bellevue, Washington; majoring in evolutionary biology with a minor in Spanish; Stephanie and Jeff Tuschhoff; Hazen High School; mentored by Jorge Soberon in ecology and evolutionary biology.
Joseph Vincent: Shawnee; majoring in aerospace engineering; Erin and Tony Vincent; Mill Valley High School; mentored by Craig McLaughlin in aerospace engineering.
Taylor Zabel: Smith Center; majoring in biochemistry; John and Laura Zabel; Smith Center High School; mentored by Vincent Francisco in applied behavioral science.
Michael Zhou: Overland Park; majoring in mechanical engineering and mathematics; Jueren Zhou and Wei Chen; Blue Valley North High School; mentored by Erik Van Vleck in mathematics.
By RANDY GONZALES
FHSU University Relations
Jeina Stoumbaugh was one of 3,794 Fort Hays State University graduates in 2016. She couldn’t have done it without the support she received the last four years from the FHSU community.
“They helped me out tremendously,” said Stoumbaugh, who received a degree in organizational leadership. “First person I met on campus was Joey Linn. He’s been one of my biggest supporters all four years.”
Dr. Linn was associate vice president for student affairs and registrar at the time and has since been promoted to vice president of the Division of Student Affairs.
There were 224 more graduates than in 2015 for this year’s commencement. The keynote speaker at commencement ceremonies Friday and Saturday in Gross Memorial Coliseum was political icon and Russell native Robert J. “Bob” Dole, who received the university’s first-ever honorary doctorate.
“In these very contentious times, the life’s work of Sen. Bob Dole reminds us we must find ways to come together, to move forward, to accomplish together what no one of us can do alone,” FHSU President Mirta M. Martin said. “He shares the same western Kansas values that sustain our exploration on the Great American frontier. His life is a life lived large, and his influence is even larger. His life’s journey is distinguished by courage, by sacrifice, by compassion and by public service. He remains one of the nation’s greatest and most visible leaders.”
Michael Beach and his wife, Pat, traveled from South Carolina to attend Friday’s graduation of their nephew, Austin Linden-Lowell. About a dozen family members gathered for the big occasion, and a family picnic was planned afterward. Beach, who is retired from the telecommunications industry, has his own consulting business. Linden-Lowell, from Deer Trail, Colo., graduated with a degree in technology studies.
“I was an engineer,” Beach said. “I’m interested to see what he’s planning to do.”
Linden-Lowell and Stoumbaugh, like the 3,792 other graduates, will take that next step Dole alluded to in his speech, a step Martin emphasized in her remarks.
“Today, we are on the cusp of one of the greatest generational shifts of all time. You, the millennial generation, 81 million strong, are the largest generation in American history. You will not have the luxury of a long apprenticeship. In just four short years, you will comprise 46 percent of the workforce,” Martin said. “Don’t live a life that’s too small for you. Live large, be courageous, be compassionate, be a leader.
“To be a leader, you must be visible,” Martin added. “To make a difference, you must be seen. To be seen; to have the world find you – you must give of yourself.”
Stoumbaugh, who is from Westminster, Colo., gave of herself in her four years at Fort Hays State. She worked with student orientation in the student affairs office and was active in Delta Zeta sorority. She also worked nights as a certified nursing assistant at Cedar View Assisted Living. Now it’s on to the University of Central Missouri to be a graduate assistant while pursuing a master’s degree in college student personnel administration.
“It’s a little scary, but I know I still have those people who supported me all these four years,” said Stoumbaugh, who moves to Warrensburg, Mo., in July. “They’re again going to be my biggest cheerleaders when I make the move.”
FINNEY COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities in Finney County are investigating the possible use of skimmers on ATM machines throughout Garden City and the surrounding area in southwest Kansas.
The Garden City Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance with the investigation, according to a social media report.
Police believe that there are devices being placed on the ATM machines that will not only record the card information but will record the PIN number as it is typed in.
The Garden City Police Department warned the public to use ATM machines that they are familiar with and inspect the machine prior to using it.
They reminded the public that if it looks like something has been added or just does not look right please contact police and stay at the ATM until they arrive.
Garden City Police Department is also requesting those who use an ATM machine that they monitor their bank account to make sure no other transactions were made in a different location. Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
A century ago when this state consisted mainly of farm and ranch families, it was a common sight to see neighbors helping neighbors. They swapped farm machinery. They loaned labor back and forth to work harvest thrashing crews. A barn raising presented another opportunity for friends to help build and support the community.
Kansans have always been an active bunch. Citizens of this state have always believed they can, “Get the job done.”
Today, Kansas farmers and ranchers do their barn raising by supporting those in need across the state. A recent example is the monster wildfire that burned more than 500,000 acres of grassland in Barber and Comanche counties.
While farmers and ranchers in these counties continue to look to better times and a renewed commitment to their farm and ranch operations, they marvel at the overwhelming support they’ve received from people across Kansas and neighboring states.
In addition to encouragement and well wishes, hay and fencing equipment has arrived by the semi loads. Volunteers have offered their support and help as well.
With natural disasters there has always been a tremendous outpouring of neighbors helping neighbors. Such action warms the soul.
But this is not a new or recent phenomenon. Since Kansas was settled, farmers and ranchers have supported their communities. They’ve always appreciated main streets that are bright, clean and well maintained. They’ve actively participated in the school system, served on the county planning board, taught Sunday school and worked with other community organizations and activities. Farmers and ranchers have been part of the fabric that has made Kansas the viable state it is today.
Some people have the mistaken belief that government can control the economy and provide a better life for its citizens. This is unrealistic, and in the case of Kansas, unnecessary. Both for theoretical and practical reasons, governments are unable to control the economy or create jobs.
Kansans know this. Our communities have never stood idly by and waited for the federal government to care for them. Instead they form alliances to tackle community issues, foster business development and ensure an environment where they will continue to grow.
Still, with the number of farm families dwindling each year, it is not enough for rural Kansas communities to have and follow a strategic plan for economic development. Such communities must not forget they need institutions that bring farmers into the communities on a regular basis.
This means places where rural and townsfolk can gather. This means a place where they can talk about mutual interests – children, the high school football team, the remodeled library – just about anything that relates to the welfare and well-being of the area.
Restaurants, grocery stores, a church, active participation in the school system and involvement in farm and community organizations are all ways to rekindle interest.
Vibrant communities thrive and grow when farmers participate in their towns or become actively involved in local affairs. Farmers, ranchers and businesses remain the key to growth and vitality in any rural area.
Agriculture has always been the crucial ingredient driving the economic machinery of our state. Kansans are proud of the leadership our agricultural community provides. Working together in rural and urban areas, with progressive community leadership, we can improve our standard of living and the quality of life in Kansas.
John Schlageck, a Hoxie native, is a leading commentator on agriculture and rural Kansas.
HAYS, Kan. – The TMP-Marian girls’ soccer team had no problem handling the rain or Rose Hill in their 4-1A regional opener Monday at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. The Monarchs cruised past the Rockets 10-0 to advance to Thursday’s regional final.
Aubrey Koeningsman had three goals. Megan Koeningsman and Bailey Hageman both scored twice. Taylor Gabel, Ashley Ostrander and Tyra Younie also added goals.
Gracie Schmidt had two saves in goal in the second half helping the Monarchs to their eighth shutout of the season.
TMP-M is now 11-3-1 and will host the winner of Tuesday’s match between Topeka-Hayden (8-8) and Wichita Collegiate (3-6-1) at 4:30 pm Thursday at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.
The Fort Hays State University Business Workshop Series, The Emotionally Intelligent Leader: Understanding Personality and Conflict, will be held Tuesday, May 24, 2016 at the Stouffer Lounge on the campus of Fort Hays State University. With a preview of what is taking place, Mike Cooper visits with Sabrina William and Dr. Jeni McRay.
SYRACUSE, Kan. – The TMP-Marian boys golf team is headed to state for a sixth straight year after a second place finish at the Syracuse 3A regional at the Tamerisk Golf Club. The Moanrchs shot a 368, one shot ahead of third place Cimarron and seven behind first place Syracuse.
Hayden Rohr finished third with an 80 and Collin Werth was fifth with an 85.
The 3A state tournament is at the Salina Municipal Golf Course on Monday.
GOODLAND, Kan. – For an eighth consecutive year, the Hays High boys golf team is headed to the state tournament. The Indians shot a 335 and won the team title by 24 shots over Goodland at the Goodland 4A regional Monday at the Sugar Hill Golf Club. It is the fourth consecutive regional title for Hays High.
The Indians placed four in the top-10 led by freshman Tradgon McCrae who won the individual title with an 80, edging Goodland freshman Garin Ihrig by one stroke. Payton Ruder finished third with an 83, Allen Zollinger finished eighth with an 85 and Peyton Keiffer came in ninth with an 87. Justin McCullick shot an 89 and finished 11th.
The 4A state tournament is at the Bentwood Golf Course in Ulysses Monday.
Team Results
1. Hays – 335
2. Goodland – 359
3. Colby – 362
4. Ulysses – 380
5. Holcomb – 383
6. Nickerson – 413
7. Concordia – 453
8. Hugoton – 497
Pratt
Individual Results
1. Tradgon McCrae-Hays 80
2. Garin Ihrig-Goodland 81
3. Payton Ruder-Hays 83
4. Braden Showalter-Holcomb 84
5. Brennen Acree-Concordia 84
6. Brandon Peters-Ulysses 85
7. Bryce Arnberger-Colby 85
8. Allen Zollinger-Hays 85
9. Peyton Kieffer-Hays 87
10. Robert Lee-Colby 87
HUTCHINSON -A woman who worked for the Kansas Department of Corrections faces a felony charge for sexual contact with an inmate at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility.
Amy D. Hapner, Hutchinson, is charged with unlawful sexual relations for the encounter where she’s accused of consensual lewd fondling or touching of the inmate, Donell Williams.
The alleged crime occurring on May 7, according to court records.
Williams, 32, is serving time for two counts of murder in the first degree for crimes in Wyandotte County.
With the charge filed against Hapner, the case will now move to a future waiver-status docket.
Mostly cloudy today with a few sprinkles possible. Highs in the 50s to near 60 this afternoon.
Today A 10 percent chance of rain before 7am. Cloudy, with a high near 60. North northeast wind 11 to 13 mph.
Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41. East northeast wind 5 to 9 mph becoming light northeast.
WednesdayMostly cloudy, with a high near 65. Light and variable wind becoming southeast 5 to 9 mph in the morning.
Wednesday NightMostly cloudy, with a low around 45. East southeast wind 7 to 10 mph.
ThursdayA 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 63.
Thursday NightA 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50.
FridayA 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 71.
WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Four students at a middle school near Wichita, Kansas, are charged with conspiracy to commit first-degree murder in connection with a supposed bomb-and-shooting plot.
Names of the Haysville Middle School eighth-graders charged Monday in Sedgwick County were not released. It was not immediately clear if they were charged as adults, or if they have attorneys.
School officials have said the alleged threat surfaced last Thursday after social media posts indicated someone was plotting to bomb and shoot people on school grounds. Police identified the students behind the alleged threat and took them into custody.
The four defendants remain in custody, awaiting hearings.
HAYS – TMP scored three runs in the 6th and Bailey Lacy struck out seven in relief as the Monarchs advanced to the regional semifinal with a 6-4 win over Lakin Monday at TMP Softball Complex.
Lakin took advantage of an infield single and a passed ball in the first inning to take a 1-0 lead.
The Monarchs tied the game at one in the second inning, scoring on an error and then an RBI double by Allison Helget put TMP up 2-1 after two innings.
Brianna Romme’s third inning RBI single put the Monarchs up 3-1 after three.
TMP turned to Bailey Lacy in relief in the fourth inning and she retired six straight, striking five in-a-row, earning her ninth win of the season.
Leading 3-2 the Monarchs scored three runs on two errors and a Meagan Brin run scoring single to go up 6-2 after six innings.
The Broncs scored two in the seventh and got the game-tying run on base but Lacy was able to strand two runners as the Monarchs pick up the win.
TMP moved to 15-6 on the season and will play Scott Community in Tuesday semifinals at 4:30.
Melissa Schoepf Post game
