NOTE: Saturday June 14 is the 250th anniversary of the United States Army.. This is the first of two stories in honor of their anniversary, the second story will be posted on Sunday.&nbsp;

 While most in Hutchinson know Dr. Dawn Johnson as the dedicated superintendent of USD 308, fewer may realize she also holds one of the highest military ranks in the U.S. Army Reserve: Brigadier General.&nbsp;

With the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army being celebrated this weekend in Washington, D.C., Johnson took time to reflect on her unique journey—a path that took her from a bowling alley in small-town Kansas to commanding a unit responsible for over 8,000 soldiers across ten southeastern states.&nbsp;

“It’s not the story you might expect,” Johnson said. “I wasn’t a model student. I was a troublemaker. One day, my dad picked me up from in-school suspension and we had lunch at the bowling alley he ran, and he slid a recruiting pamphlet over to me and asked if I’d ever considered the military. That’s where it started.”&nbsp;

One of the recruiters bowled on a Monday night. And every Monday, the recruiter kept talking to her. &nbsp;

The decision to enlist was partly practical. With four siblings and limited finances, the military offered a path to education and opportunity. Johnson graduated high school on a Sunday and left for basic training the following Tuesday.&nbsp;

What followed was a career that blended military service and education. After several years of active duty—including time stationed in Germany and at Fort Carson—Johnson returned to the U.S. and pursued a college degree on a bowling scholarship, first in Vincennes Indiana, then later at Wichita State. She eventually earned her degree from Wichita State and began teaching, all while continuing to serve in the Army Reserve.&nbsp;

Over 28 years, she has worked her way up through the ranks. &nbsp;

“I commissioned in 1997 and then in In two, 2001 of course, 911 happened, and then had three deployments since 911 right after that.” said Johnson. “Yeah, so I just moved up from lieutenant to captain to major, lieutenant colonel. &nbsp;And I think every time, you know, I just, I don't know that I ever had the desire to be a brigadier general or saw that in my future, I just walked into every job and gave it my heart and soul, and, you know, people recognize that, and they put you in positions to continue taking on more responsibility, and you continue to rise to the occasion.” &nbsp;

Now in her first year commanding a major Reserve unit based in Orlando, Florida, Johnson is one of only 18 new generals selected nationwide. Her unit spans ten states and includes 8,000 soldiers, with 200 full-time staff under her direction.&nbsp;

Her dual roles in education and the military, she said, complement each other in unexpected ways.&nbsp;

“Leadership is leadership. Whether it’s managing a school district or leading troops, it comes down to staying calm under pressure, making tough decisions, and mentoring others,” Johnson explained. “In both jobs, I try to live by the idea of coach, teach, mentor, and train. When people know what’s expected and feel supported, they rise to the occasion.”&nbsp;

With military recruitment numbers down nationally, Johnson sees herself as an example of the opportunities the armed forces can offer. She often meets with students considering service and has helped guide several young people into military careers.&nbsp;

“My, my young I raised a young man. He's not biologically mine, but I call him my son, and so he has finished his 20-year career as a Ranger Scout and was an outstanding soldier and Purple Heart metal. And same thing he was, you know, it, it really just changed his life and turned him around’” said Johnson.&nbsp;

She said her unit had their 250 Army celebration and she wasn’t able to be there, so she sent her Chief of Staff.&nbsp;

“Leadership matters, and presence really makes a difference. And where is my presence make a difference? And how do I balance that? By being present USD, 308, and then, you know, fulfilling and leading in that, in that Army Reserve position. And so, I have a lot of great people that I surround myself with and really try to let that talent go to work for me as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Looking ahead, Johnson says she hopes to continue her current command role and is waiting to hear whether she’ll be extended or assigned to a new position. While only a fraction of those who make brigadier general advance to the next rank, she’s focused on the job at hand.&nbsp;

Right now, she is just honored to lead, she has a great team, both in the Army and at USD 308. She tries to be present, support those around her, and lead with integrity.”&nbsp;

Dr. Johnson celebrates 28 years in service to country 

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Emansel	L&nbsp;Rossiter&nbsp;6/13/2025 8:00 AM&nbsp; Failure to Appear&nbsp;

Victor	Martin Alvarez&nbsp;6/13/2025 10:50 AM&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal Trespass; Posted or Locked Premises

Reontae Bernard Crosby&nbsp;6/13/2025 1:36 PM&nbsp;&nbsp;Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision

Jorden	Daniel Puls&nbsp;6/13/2025 3:41 PM&nbsp; Failure to Appear&nbsp;

Clayton	David Biery&nbsp;6/13/2025 6:08 PM&nbsp; Reckless Driving,&nbsp;Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless &lt;18;Bodily harm,&nbsp;Aggravated battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon

Arthur	Anthony Allen 6/13/2025 6:55 PM&nbsp; Failure to Appear&nbsp;

Tyler	William Dana&nbsp;Lang&nbsp;6/13/2025 7:14 PM&nbsp;&nbsp;Stalking; Conduct after receiving notice of protection order causing fear

Lamont	Donshea Lee&nbsp;6/13/2025 7:35 PM&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misdemeanor; unknown conviction

Sunny	Lee Saylor&nbsp;6/13/2025 11:13 PM&nbsp;&nbsp;DUI; Alcohol Concentration .08 or more shown by competent evidence; 1st Offense

Daily Bookings 

<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON </a>Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;After months of renovation work, Dillons Marketplace officially celebrated its grand reopening Friday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, unveiling a refreshed layout, expanded offerings, and a $3 million investment aimed at modernizing the store and enhancing the customer experience.

Located at 3200 Plaza E Drive, the 124,000-square-foot store underwent a $3 million remodel that includes significant layout changes, department expansions, upgraded technology, and a modernized customer experience, all part of Dillons’ broader investment strategy in Kansas. It was the store’s first full-scale renovation since opening in 2013.

Steve Dreher, president of the Dillons Division, welcomed guests gathered near the east entrance for the ceremony.

“It’s a big day for us,” Dreher said. “It’s hard to believe that almost 12 years ago, many of us were right here to open this store. We were excited then, and we’re excited today to be back celebrating again.”

Dreher noted that most stores are remodeled every seven to 10 years to maintain freshness and functionality. 

“We were able to stretch this store to 12 years thanks to the exceptional team that’s kept it thriving,” he said. “But customer needs evolve. Retail has changed, especially after the pandemic. This remodel allows us to adapt to those changes and continue serving Hutchinson with excellence.”

The revamped store features a variety of upgrades:

“This store is the very first in the Kroger family to use Falcon Board for our interior décor system, even before our headquarters in Cincinnati,” Dreher said. “It’s lightweight, renewable, and recyclable. It not only looks sharp, but it helps us further our sustainability goals.”

According to Dreher, 84% of construction materials were diverted from the landfill during the remodel process through recycling and repurposing. The store also received a refreshed exterior and updates to key infrastructure systems to support the customer and employee experience.

The reopening celebration included remarks from store manager Jason Cline, who expressed appreciation to the store team and the community.

“Our vision is to always be full, fresh and friendly for our guests, every single day,” Cline said. “These upgrades will help us deliver on that promise. I want to thank our incredible associates, our loyal customers, and our community partners for making this all possible. You are the heart of Dillons.”

In a show of continued community engagement, Sheila Regehr, a spokesperson for Dillons, presented three $1,000 donations to local nonprofits: the Hutchinson Salvation Army, the Food Bank of Reno County, and United Way of Reno County.

“Together with our community partners, we’re making a real impact in helping those who need it most,” Regehr said. “That’s what today is all about, celebrating progress while giving back.”

The reopening celebration also featured product samples throughout the store, grand re-opening promotions, free giveaways, and raffles for Dillons gift cards and product baskets. Festivities are expected to continue through the weekend.

Dillons has served Hutchinson since 1921 and operates under The Kroger Co., one of the largest grocery retailers in the country. The Hutchinson Marketplace store is one of the company’s flagship locations in Kansas.

According to Dreher, Dillons has invested more than $35 million in its Kansas stores over the past decade, with more renovations and a new store planned in Lawrence this year.

“We remodel not to inconvenience you, but to make your experience better,” Dreher told the crowd. “And we know change isn’t always easy. That’s why we’re so grateful for your loyalty and patience.”

Before concluding his remarks, Dreher revisited the original mission statement created by the department leadership team when the store first opened in 2013, one he said still guides the store today:

We believe and are committed to providing our customers a world-class shopping experience through low prices, fast, friendly checkouts, from genuinely engaged associates in every aisle, in every department, every day. We believe.

“Those words hold true today, maybe more than ever,” Dreher said. “This store stands as a testament to that mission, and to the people who bring it to life every single day.”

Dillons celebrates $3 million remodel with grand reopening in Hutchinson

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">For your complete KSStorm.info forecast click here.&nbsp;</a>

Three-day weather outlook 

McPHERSON, Kan. — A fire Friday morning caused significant damage to a McPherson home and displaced four residents and their two dogs.

McPherson Fire Department crews were dispatched at 10:30 a.m. to the 600 block of North Oak Street after a neighbor called 911 to report smoke coming from the residence. McPherson EMS and the McPherson Police Department also responded.

As crews made their way to the scene, dispatchers advised that one resident had safely exited the home. Firefighters were informed that two dogs were still inside.

Firefighters entered the home and located a working fire in the kitchen. Crews quickly extinguished the blaze and conducted a search of the main floor and basement. Both dogs were found unharmed — one in the basement and the other in a rear room — and were reunited with the residents.

The fire was contained to the kitchen, but heat, smoke and water caused damage throughout the structure. All four residents and their pets were displaced as a result.

Two fire engines and a command vehicle with six personnel responded to the initial alarm. After confirming a working structure fire, Ladder 1 and two additional command vehicles with four more personnel were dispatched on a second alarm.

An investigation determined the fire originated in the kitchen and was accidental in nature.

Fire damages McPherson home, displaces 4 residents and 2 dogs

MOUNDRIDGE, Kan. — Two Hutchinson residents died following a two-vehicle crash Thursday night in Moundridge, according to the McPherson County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded around 7:48 p.m. to the intersection of Old Highway 81 and Arrowhead Road, where a 2004 Toyota Corolla had collided with a pickup truck.

Authorities said the Toyota, driven by Danny Lee Heath, 63, of Hutchinson, had stopped at a stop sign and pulled into the path of a northbound pickup truck driven by Kaleb Bowen, 19, of Moundridge. The pickup struck the passenger side of the Toyota.

Mariah Lyddane, 30, of Hutchinson, a passenger in the Toyota, was pronounced dead at the scene by Moundridge Fire and EMS. Heath was extricated from the vehicle and transported to McPherson Medical Center, then transferred to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, where he died around 5 a.m. Friday.

Bowen was evaluated at a hospital and released.

Next of kin have been notified. No further information is available at this time.

Two Hutchinson residents killed in Moundridge crash Thursday

Indego Moon live at Sandhills Brewing • 5 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;111 West Second

<a href="https://www.rcfmks.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKBmQRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEzdkdJUGtVbEdjY3V1Y3VTAR7lGJ1kAckMgUcnSI756UiNOiYC1K0-RHoYZK0mtlkb0zLN-LBjMwKVCH4OYQ_aem_Om5fLM_EfizOIqFnwNunyg">Reno County Farmers Market</a>&nbsp;•&nbsp;7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Second Ave and Washington Street&nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/saturday-morning-artists-qa">Saturday Morning Artists</a>&nbsp;• 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Art Center - 405 North Washington&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/12cfb829-af72-4a35-8fe4-3b37e7c7aa7b">2025 Master Gardeners Summer Tour</a> • 9 a.m. - 2p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Various locations around Hutchinson

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/73573c1d-b4b0-4767-b503-1d34041de45d">Center of the Nation Train Show</a> • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Pride of Kansas Building, Kansas State Fairgrounds&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/events/classic-film-series-bambi">Fox Theatre Classic Film Series "Bambi"</a> • 2 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Fox Theatre

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/1a6d7c6b-19f8-474d-8abb-ba32e402625f">Halibut Bake and Fish Fry </a>• 5 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;First United Methodist Church, 101 East First&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/778d7fc6-236f-4916-a358-1ea3c14e6d14">Hutchinson Monarchs vs Great Bend Bat Cats</a> • 7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp;

Mid America Flea Market • 9 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meadowlark Building - Kansas State Fairgrounds&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/73573c1d-b4b0-4767-b503-1d34041de45d">Center of the Nation Train Show</a>&nbsp;• 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Pride of Kansas Building, Kansas State Fairgrounds&nbsp; &nbsp;

Happenings Around Hutch | June 13-15

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs will trade in scorecards for support this Saturday, June 14, as they host one of the most meaningful nights of their baseball season, a night devoted to striking out cancer.

In a heartfelt tradition that began with the team’s founding, the Monarchs will again raise funds for the Cancer Council of Reno County, an organization that provides vital resources and support for local cancer patients and their families.

There will be no regular admission fee for Saturday's game. Instead, fans are encouraged to make a goodwill offering, with 100% of donations going directly to the Cancer Council. Additionally, the team’s players and coaches will wear custom jerseys in honor of those affected by cancer—jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game to further benefit the cause.

This year’s commemorative jersey holds special significance. It honors Dave Blackim, the late father of Monarchs co-owner and General Manager Marc Blackim.

“Cancer sucks,” the team said in a statement. “And it impacts far too many lives and families. We would love nothing more than to see a full house on Saturday as we remember Dave and all others who have been impacted by cancer.”

Those who cannot attend the game but would still like to support the effort are encouraged to email the team at hutchmonarchs@gmail.com for donation information.

The Monarchs invite the entire community to come together—not just for baseball, but for a night of remembrance, solidarity, and hope.

Monarchs host Strike Out Cancer game Saturday 

SSGT Richard Hon of the U.S. Army took time out to talk with us about his career in the army.&nbsp; He's an U.S. Army recruiter here in Hutchinson.&nbsp;

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: SSGT Richard Hon, U.S. Army 

Dawn Johnson stopped by to visit with us about her "second" career. Not only is she the Superintendent of USD 308, but she is also a Brigadier General in the U.S. Army Reserve.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Brig. Gen. Dawn Johnson, U.S. Army Reserves 

The First United Methodist Church invites the community to its Halibut Bake &amp; Fish Fry on Saturday, June 14.

The event kicks off at 5:30 p.m. and promises an evening of great food and fellowship. Alongside the halibut and classic fish fry, roast beef will also be served — offering something for every appetite.

This is a family-friendly gathering, open to everyone in the community. There’s no set price for the meal — donations will be accepted through a free will offering, with all proceeds supporting the church’s general budget.

Organizers say it’s a great chance to enjoy a warm meal with friends and neighbors while helping support the mission and work of the church.

First United Methodist Church is located at 101 East First Avenue.&nbsp;

First UMC to hold Halibut Bake 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs (8-1) will host the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park tonight with the first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m. Tonight is Cancer Awareness night. Free admission. Good will donations go to support the Reno County Cancer Foundation.

The Monarchs are slated for 19 home games with all of those games set to be video streamed on <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8dc5bdf3-e9a7-4011-9b4a-2b453688d13f">hutchpost.com</a> as well as on the <a href="http://www.monarchslive.tv">monarchslive.tv</a> channel. Eagle Media's Glen Grunwald will have the play-by-play call tonight with Matt Peterson providing the video stream..&nbsp;

🎥⚾ WATCH LIVE: Hutch Monarchs host Great Bend Bat Cats on Cancer Awareness Night

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Austin Wynns and Luis Urías hit home runs, Luis Severino pitched 7 2/3 strong innings, and the Athletics beat Kansas City 6-4 on Friday night to end a 14-game road losing streak and hand the Royals their fourth straight loss.

Severino (2-6) allowed six hits and a first-inning run on an RBI double by Salvador Perez. He surrendered 17 hits and 13 earned runs in his two previous starts covering 11 1/3 innings.

Wynns hit his fourth home run — a solo shot with two outs in the second off Royals starter Michael Wacha (3-6) — to tie it 1-1. Urías hit Wacha’s second pitch in the fourth out to left for his seventh homer and a 3-1 lead. Nick Kurtz drove in the second run for the A's with a two-out single in the third.

The Athletics pulled away after Wacha left with two on and one out in the sixth.

Jacob Wilson greeted reliever Steven Cruz with a single to load the bases. Cruz fanned Brent Rooker on three pitches but walked Tyler Soderstrom to force in a run. Max Muncy followed with a two-run single for a 6-1 advantage. Cruz fanned Kurtz with his 22nd pitch to end the inning. Wilson went 2 for 5 and scored twice.

Nick Loftin had a two-run triple in a three-run ninth as the Athletics held on for their fifth victory in their last 29 games.

Wacha gave up five runs on nine hits in 5 1/3 innings. Taylor Clarke pitched two scoreless innings after Cruz got two outs.

Muncy's two-out, two-run single in the sixth following the bases-loaded walk to Soderstrom proved to be the difference.

The Athletics began the day with the worst ERA in the AL at 5.63 while allowing the most home runs — 104.

⚾ Athletics end 14-game road losing streak, beat the Royals

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — More than 40 of the state’s top high school football players will arrive in Hutchinson on Saturday morning for practices and preparation leading up to the 52nd annual Kansas Shrine Bowl, set for Saturday, June 21, at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.

Hosted on the campus of Hutchinson Community College, the West team’s players and coaches will check in at Elland Hall and will remain in Hutchinson through Thursday morning before departing for Dodge City.

The Shrine Bowl, an all-star game showcasing recently graduated seniors from across the state, is scheduled for a 7 p.m. kickoff and will be broadcast statewide on EAGLE Media stations, including locally on <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">Country 102.9</a>.

The West squad will spend the week practicing at Gowans Stadium under the guidance of an all-star coaching staff, beginning with an orientation weekend and the first of 14 scheduled practices. Players and coaches will also participate in team-building activities, community meals, media sessions, and nightly meetings in preparation for the game.

Local student-athletes that will be playing for the West team include Terrell King (Hutchinson), Owen Schmidt (Pratt), Henry Hecox (Moundridge), Landon Harp (Andale), Cooper Marx (Andale), Catch Delaney (McPherson), Karter Gonzalez (Hesston), Connor Herman (Halstead) and Bodey Redenbaugh (Buhler).

Hutch High head coach Mike Vernon will serve as an assistant coach for the West team.

Hutchinson’s facilities, particularly Gowans Stadium, Shears Center, and the dining hall, will serve as the hub for all West team operations until the group leaves for Dodge City on Thursday afternoon.

The Kansas Shrine Bowl is produced annually by the Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Since its inception in 1974, the event has raised nearly $4 million for Shriners Children’s, a global health care network specializing in pediatric specialty care, research, and education. All Kansas Shrine Bowl events are presented to benefit Shriners Children’s, which serves children regardless of families’ ability to pay.

In addition to the football game, the Shrine Bowl week includes a variety of supporting events, such as the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, and the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals wrestling exhibition, all helping to elevate the impact of the week’s fundraising efforts.

The Shrine Bowl has been held in cities across the state, including Lawrence, Manhattan, Wichita, Topeka, Pittsburg, Emporia, Hays, Hutchinson, and this year’s host, Dodge City.

🏈 West team reports to HutchCC campus Saturday ahead of Kansas Shrine Bowl

🎧⚾ Royals swept by Yankees; ⚾ Wind Surge victorious; ⚾ Monarchs travel to Bat Cats Friday

⚾ Wind Surge victorious Thursday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pablo Reyes stumbled, stopped and still scrambled home safely on a wild play in the eighth inning, taking advantage of a throwing error by reliever Lucas Erceg to give the New York Yankees a 1-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night.

New York completed a three-game sweep to finish 6-0 against the Royals this season after eliminating them 3-1 in their best-of-five playoff series last October.

Will Warren and four relievers combined on a five-hitter as the AL East-leading Yankees (42-25) moved a season-high 17 games over .500. They have the best road record in the majors at 21-13.

Mark Leiter Jr. (4-3) got one out for the win, and Devin Williams earned his ninth save.

⚾ Yankees score late, finish sweep of Royals

OAKMONT, Pa. (AP) — J.J. Spaun is still new enough to the U.S. Open, and a newcomer to the brute that is Oakmont, that he was prepared for anything Thursday. He wound up with a clean card and a one-shot lead on an opening day that delivered just about everything.

Scottie Scheffler had more bogeys in one round than he made had the entire tournament when he won the Memorial. He shot a 73, his highest start ever in a U.S. Open, four shots worse than when he made his Open debut at Oakmont as a 19-year-old at Texas.

Patrick Reed made the first albatross in 11 years at the U.S. Open when he holed out a 3-wood from 286 yards on the par-5 fourth. He finished with a triple bogey.

Bryson DeChambeau was 39 yards away from the hole at the par-5 12th and took four shots from the rough to get to the green.

Si Woo Kim shot a 68 and had no idea how.

“Honestly, I don’t even know what I’m doing on the course,” Kim said. “Kind of hitting good but feel like this course is too hard for me.”

Through it all, Spaun played a steady hand in only his second U.S. Open. He played bogey-free and finished with 10 straight pars for a 4-under 66 on America’s toughest course hosting the major know as the toughest test in golf.

He matched the low opening round in U.S. Opens at Oakmont — Andrew Landry also shot 66 the last time here in 2016 — and it was no mystery. Good putting never fails at any U.S. Open, and Spaun holed five par putts ranging from 7 feet to 16 feet to go along with four birdies.

“I didn’t really feel like I’m going to show a bogey-free round 4 under. I didn’t really know what to expect especially since I’ve never played here,” said Spaun, playing in only his second U.S. Open. “But yeah, maybe sometimes not having expectations is the best thing, so I’ll take it.”

Oakmont lived up to its reputation with a scoring average of about 74.6 despite a course still relatively soft from rain and moderate wind that didn’t stick around for long.

Just ask Rory McIlroy, although he chose not to speak for the fifth straight competitive round at a major since his Masters victory. He had to hack out three times on the fourth hole to get it back to the fairway, and then he holed a 30-foot putt for a most unlikely bogey. He shot 74.

“Even for a guy like me, I can’t get out of it some of the times, depending on the lie,” DeChambeau said after a 73. “It was tough. It was a brutal test of golf.”

The start of the round included Maxwell Moldovan holing out for eagle on the 484-yard opening hole. Toward the end, Tony Finau hit an approach just over the green, off a sprinkler head and into the grandstand, his Titleist marked by green paint of the sprinkler. He saved par.

When the first round ended more than 13 hours after it started, only 10 players managed to break par. That’s one fewer than the opening round in 2016.

Scheffler, the heavy favorite as the No. 1 player in the world who had won three of his last four tournaments by a combined 17 shots, made a 6-foot birdie putt on his second hole. Then he found the Church Pew bunkers on the third and fourth holes, made bogey on both and was never under the rest of the day.

“I made some silly mistakes out there, but at the same time, I made some key putts and some good momentum saves in my round,” Scheffler said. “But overall just need to be a little sharper.“

Spaun, who started his round by chipping in from ankle-deep rough just right of the 10th green, was walking down the 18th fairway when a spectator looked at the group’s scoreboard and said, “J.J. Spaun. He’s 4 under?”

The emphasis was on the number, not the name.

But some of the names were surprising, starting with Spaun. He lost in a playoff at The Players Championship to McIlroy that helped move him to No. 25 in the world, meaning he didn’t have to go through U.S. Open qualifying for the first time.

Thriston Lawrence of South Africa, who contended at Royal Troon last summer, had six birdies in a round of 67.

And perhaps Brooks Koepka can count as a surprise because the five-time major champion has not contended in a major since winning the PGA Championship in 2023, and he missed the cut in the Masters and PGA Championship this year.

He looked like the Koepka of old, muscling way around Oakmont, limiting mistakes and closing with two birdies for a 68 that left him in a group with the South Korea duo of Si Woo Kim and Sungjae Im.

“It’s nice to put a good round together. It’s been a while,” Koepka said. “It’s been so far off ... but now it’s starting to click. Unfortunately, we’re about halfway through the season, so that’s not ideal, but we’re learning.”

Another shot back at 69 was a group that included two-time major champion Jon Rahm, who went 11 holes before making a birdie, and followed that with an eagle.

“I played some incredible golf to shoot 1 under, which we don’t usually say, right?” Rahm said.

The course allowed plenty of birdies, plenty of excitement, and doled out plenty of punishment.

McIlroy also was bogey-free, at least on his opening nine. Then he three-putted for bogey on No. 1 and wound up with a 41 on the front nine for a 74. Sam Burns was one shot out of the lead until playing the last four holes in 5 over for a 72 that felt a lot worse.

Spaun was not immune from this. He just made everything, particularly five par putts from 7 feet or longer.

“I think today was one of my best maybe putting days I’ve had maybe all year,” Spaun said. “Converting those putts ... that’s huge for momentum and keeping a round going, and that’s kind of what happens here at U.S. Opens.”

Spaun wouldn’t know that from experience. This is only his second U.S. Open, and his ninth major since his first one in 2018. He didn’t have to qualify, moving to No. 25 in the world on the strength of his playoff loss to McIlroy at The Players Championship.

“I haven’t played in too many,” Spaun said “I knew it was going to be tough. I did my best just to grind through it all.”

It was every bit of a grind, from the rough and on the fast greens. Three more days.

⛳ J.J. Spaun leads U.S. Open at Oakmont on a wild day of great shots and shockers

🏀 K-State's 2025-26 men's conference slate released

🏀 Kansas' 18-game Big 12 matchups announced

🏀 K-State announces league opponents for 2025-26 women's schedule

WASHINGTON (AP) — A massive military parade unfolding against the backdrop of President Donald Trump's unconventional flex of fighting forces in American streets this week is on track to begin Saturday evening with tanks, bands and thousands of troops.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/event/public-affairs-event/us-army-250th-anniversary-parade-celebration/433796">Click here to watch 5p.m. CDT</a>

The parade, honoring the Army's long-planned 250th anniversary celebration and coinciding with Trump's 79th birthday, is set to step off from the Lincoln Memorial under the threat of stormy weather in Washington and the potential for protests around the country tied to a turbulent week of immigration enforcement that has involved military deployment in Los Angeles.

Trump has brushed off the possibility of both disruptions, with a social media post Saturday morning that said the "great military parade" would be on "rain or shine." The protests, he said earlier, "will be met with very big force." Hours ahead of the parade, crowds of protesters with anti-Trump signs marched toward the White House, escorted by police vehicles and officers on bicycles. Some held a giant banner that read "TRUMP MUST GO NOW."

Added just a few weeks ago to the Army's birthday celebration, the parade has triggered criticism for its price tag of up to $45 million and the possibility that the lumbering tanks could tear up city streets. The Army has taken a variety of steps to protect the streets, including laying metal plates down along the route.

About 6 in 10 Americans say Saturday's parade is "not a good use" of government money, including the vast majority of people, 78%, who neither approve nor disapprove of the parade overall, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

The daylong display of America's Army comes as Trump has shown his willingness to use the nation's military might in ways other U.S. presidents have typically avoided, inviting an array of lawsuits and accusations that he is politicizing the military. In the last week, he has activated the California National Guard without the governor's permission and dispatched the U.S. Marines to provide security during Los Angeles protests related to immigration raids, prompting a state lawsuit to stop the deployments.

He similarly sought to project military strength during his first presidential term, saying in 2020 that he wanted forces to "dominate" the streets following racial justice protests that turned violent and warning governors that he was prepared to send in active-duty fighters if they did not call out the National Guard in their states.

Earlier this week, Trump raised eyebrows during a speech at Fort Bragg when members of the 82nd Airborne Division were directed to stand behind Trump and they booed and cheered during his incendiary remarks, including condemnation of his predecessor, Joe Biden. There also was a pop-up "Make America Great Again" merchandise stand nearby selling souvenirs to troops in uniform.

The Defense Department has a doctrine that prohibits troops from participating in political activity while in uniform. Members of Congress and military leaders have expressed concerns about the political displays during the speech at Fort Bragg.

The parade fulfills Trump's expressed desire for a big parade that he tried to get done in his first term after seeing one in France on Bastille Day in 2017. Trump said that after watching the two-hour procession along the famed Champs-Élysées, he wanted an even grander one on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Saturday's event is expected to include about 6,600 soldiers, 50 helicopters and 60-ton M1 Abrams battle tanks, as well as possibly 200,000 attendees and heightened security to match.

The parade will wind down Constitution Avenue, which is already lined with security fencing and barriers. Army helicopters and aircraft will fly above, and the march will be capped off by a parachute jump, a concert featuring "God Bless the U.S.A." singer Lee Greenwood and fireworks.

Hours before the parade was scheduled to start, vendors set up shop on along Pennsylvania Avenue in anticipation of the expected large crowds. Large snowplows blocked off vehicle traffic, allowing pedestrians to walk on the historic street and visit vendors selling art, souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, beverages and food including funnel cakes and lobster rolls.

A daylong festival features fitness competitions, demonstrations, equipment displays, music and a cake-cutting ceremony. A line to enter stretched nearly half a block, with attendees sporting apparel celebrating both the Army and Trump. Outside the festival gates, a large video board promoted careers in the Army, urging onlookers to consider enlistment.

It remained unclear whether any protests might disrupt the parade, though several hundred assembled in the hours before. Officials have said they so far have no indication of any security threat.

"No Kings" rallies — organizers picked the name to support democracy and speak out against what they call the authoritarian actions of the Trump administration — planned in hundreds of cities nationwide are meant to counter what organizers say are Trump's plans to feed his ego on his 79th birthday and Flag Day.

Ahead of a planned rally and march toward the White House on Saturday afternoon, about 200 protesters assembling in northwest Washington's Logan Circle handed out signs and danced to upbeat music from a local street band, including "This Land Is Your Land."

The mood was celebratory as the group chanted "Trump must go now" before erupting in cheers.

A larger than life puppet of Trump was wheeled through the crowd, a caricature of the president wearing a crown and sitting on a golden toilet.

Other protesters waved pride flags and hoisted signs, some with pointed messages such as "I prefer crushed ICE," "The invasion was HERE Jan. 6th, NOT in L.A." and "Flip me off if you're a FASCIST."

With rain expected, there is a chance the parade could be interrupted by thunderstorms.

The Army expects as many as 200,000 people could attend the festival and parade.

The parade is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. EDT, but parts of it — including the horse-drawn caissons and other units — start at the Pentagon, head over a bridge and meet up with some of the heavier tanks and equipment. Officials did not want the more-than-60-ton M1A1 Abrams tanks and Stryker vehicles crossing the bridge.

Timed down to the minute, the march will be divided into sections by history — with equipment and troops in full dress from each period.

It will include a total of 6,169 soldiers and 128 Army tanks, armored personnel carriers and artillery, while 62 aircraft fly overhead.

At the end of the parade, Trump will swear in 250 new or reenlisting troops, and the Army's Golden Knights parachute team will jump onto the Mall. That will be followed by the concert and fireworks.

Associated Press writers Eric Tucker, Michelle L. Price, Nathan Ellgren, Lea Skene, Olivia Diaz, Joey Cappelletti, Ashraf Khalil and Tara Copp contributed to this report.

🎥U.S. Army 250th Anniversary Parade

BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. (AP) — Hundreds of law officers fanned out across a Minneapolis suburb Saturday in pursuit of a man who authorities say posed as a police officer and fatally shot a Democratic state lawmaker in her home in what Gov. Tim Walz called “a politically motivated assassination.” Authorities say the same suspect also shot and wounded a second lawmaker.

Democratic former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were killed in their Brooklyn Park home. Sen. John Hoffman, also a Democrat, and his wife, Yvette, were injured at their Champlin address, about nine miles&nbsp; away.

On social media, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a statement

The early morning attacks targeting lawmakers in the northern suburbs of Minneapolis prompted warnings to other elected officials around the state and the cancellation of planned “No Kings” demonstrations against President Donald Trump. Authorities say the suspect had “No Kings” flyers in his car and writings mentioning the names of the victims as well as other lawmakers and officials, though they could not say if he had any other specific targets.

The shootings happened at a time when political leaders nationwide have been attacked, harassed and intimidated during a time of deep political divisions.

“We must all, in Minnesota and across the country, stand against all forms of political violence,” Walz, a Democrat, said at a news conference. "Those responsible for this will be held accountable.”

Two people familiar with the matter identified the suspect as 57-year-old Vance Boelter. The people could not publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

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