Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."

STEVE HARMON Hutch Post Contributor

Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the 700 block of North Main on the east side.

Drs. Richard and James Stewart came to Hutch from Alden, Kansas, in 1881.

After a few location moves, they purchased the property and house at 722 N. Main in 1896 and began a hospital there in 1900. The first photo shows the original hospital.

In 1906, the building at 724 N. Main was constructed and connected to the old one by a corridor. The second photo shows that building at opening.

They could treat up to 50 patients with the private institution.

Dr. James Stewart died in 1907 and Dr. R.A. Stewart sold the land and buildings to the Methodist Church in 1915. The property then became known as the Methodist Hospital.

In 1924, the name was changed to Grace Hospital.

In 1925, the white house annex was razed and a five-story addition was built to the south, bringing the capacity to 92 beds. The third photo shows that at opening.

In 1929, another addition of 44 beds was built to the east. The fourth and fifth photos show the hospital about this time.

In 1959, the original brick hospital was razed and a new wing (Rowland Wing) was built to replace it. The sixth photo shows the hospital at this time.

After Hutchinson's two hospitals merged in the 1970s, the Grace facility was converted into an office complex.

In 2011, the property was converted into an apartment complex. The seventh photo shows the property at 720 N. Main today, still the Hutchinson Lofts L.L.C.

To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.

Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:

<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a>

📷 Throwback Thursday: Grace Hospital - Vol. 131

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) is moving ahead with the first phase of long-term recovery efforts for households affected by the May tornado that struck the Plevna area.

Following a recent vote by the VOAD board, funds will now be distributed for eligible home repairs under a tiered approach. According to VOAD’s bylaws, Phase One support will prioritize households that attended the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) event held shortly after the storm and reported varying levels of storm damage.

In addition to financial support, a volunteer demolition day is scheduled for Saturday, July 26. The event is being organized in collaboration with ONEOK and community volunteers to aid with cleanup and debris removal for affected properties.

Reno County VOAD emphasized its continued commitment to supporting storm survivors with compassion and transparency. Officials say they will continue to assess unmet needs and may pursue additional phases of funding as resources allow.

The organization also thanked the community for its overwhelming generosity, citing donations, volunteer efforts, and acts of kindness that have strengthened the recovery process.

VOAD lunches Phase One of recovery efforts for Plevna tornado survivors 

For a quarter-century, Hutchinson has welcomed teenagers from Northern Ireland each summer through the Ulster Project — a faith-based peace and leadership program that continues to change lives on both sides of the Atlantic.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/df385581-6906-4a40-9331-39460b95d38f">LINK:&nbsp;Ulster Project brings peace and purpose to Hutchinson for 25th year</a>

This is the first of a series of biographies of the teens in this year's Ulster Project.&nbsp;

Elijah Whitley-Roth is a host teen for the 2025 Ulster Project.&nbsp; He attends&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd308.com/o/hhs">Hutchinson High School</a>.&nbsp;

Elijah likes football, basketball, and track and field.&nbsp;

What is something your Northern Irish teen would not know about Hutchinson: The names of the food are different.&nbsp;

What are you looking forward to experiencing during the Project: Learning new things.&nbsp;

Finn Stewart is a Northern Irish teen on the 2025 Ulster Project. He lives in Portadown and lives&nbsp;in Portadown and attends&nbsp;<a href="https://www.portadowncollege.com/">Portadown College</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Your family: My mom, dad, three sisters and a cat.&nbsp;

Conor likes drumming and going swimming.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Favorite singer or group: Radiohead.&nbsp;

What is something people would not know about Portadown: Part of the Game of Thrones was filmed there.&nbsp;

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: Seeing how it is different from home.&nbsp;

What is your favorite meal: Sausages.&nbsp;

What makes Ireland so special: Everyone lives close together and I can see all my extended family whenever.

The Ulster Project relies on a network of volunteers, donations, and host families to succeed. Organizer Keith Neill notes that while it’s getting harder to find host families, the impact makes it worth it. “We’re already looking for host families for 2026,” he said, encouraging anyone interested — especially those with church involvement and teens entering 10th or 11th grade — to learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hutchulster.com/">www.hutchulster.com</a>&nbsp;or call Neill 620-899-8412.

“It’s intense, but it’s only three weeks,” Neill said. “You’re not just opening your home — you’re helping create a more peaceful world.”

Ulster Project:  Elijah Whitley-Roth and Finn Stewart

Chalk the Town • 4 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;DCI Park

Third Thursday • 6-9 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Downtown Hutchinson

Fox Classic Movie Series: "The Clock" • 7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Fox Theatre

Shrek Jr. - The Musical • 7:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Flag Theatre&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pretty Prairie Rodeo • 8 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Gates open at 6 p.m. - Mutton busting is from 6 - 7 p.m.

Salt City Fest - featuring Logan Mize • 5:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Main Street between 5th and 6th Avenue

Salt City Racing • 7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas State Fairgrounds

&nbsp; Pretty Prairie Rodeo • 8 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Gates open at 6 p.m. - Mutton busting is from 6 - 7 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<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;

Reno County 4-H Fair Dog Show • 8 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meadowlark Building - Kansas State Fairgrounds

<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;

Fox Classic Movie Series: "The Clock" • 2 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Fox Theatre

&nbsp; Salt City Racing • 7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas State Fairgrounds&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Shrek Jr. - The Musical • 3 p.m. &amp; 7:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Flag Theatre

Pretty Prairie Rodeo • 8 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Gates open at 6 p.m. - Mutton busting is from 6 - 7 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shrek Jr. - The Musical • 3 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Flag Theatre

Happenings Around Hutch • July 17-20

&nbsp;Wolfie is our resident silly goose.

 He's always happy to meet people. Very welcoming. Our team loves his little bunny hops. 

We've had him in play groups with different types of dogs, and he's always ready to play. 

If you're a husky lover, fill out an application for Wolfie on our website.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExMmhQZlFSRDNreEl3Z2NMRwEel9Yjvz8Yqm-fstfQ6NR_eRcyXlrsMJJKR9d3epyA20_x99Gk0KrAX6gEKMs_aem_UDOuF30TAQrsJINWV8pwFA">https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/</a>&nbsp;

You can reach Caring Hands Humane Society at 316-283-0839. Caring Hands Humane Society is located at 1400 SE Third Street in Newton They are open Monday- Saturday 10a.m.-5 p.m. CLOSED for lunch 12:30-1:30p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Adopt a Furry Friend: Wolfie

The Hutchinson Art Center has announced the postponement of its 2025 Autumn Consignment Art Auction originally scheduled for October 4.

According to the Art Center, the decision was made due to extenuating circumstances. A new date for the auction has not yet been determined, but officials said an announcement will be made once a new date is set.

Despite the delay, the Art Center is still accepting artwork for future consignment. Artists and collectors interested in consigning pieces for the upcoming auction are encouraged to contact the center via email at hac@hutchinsonartcenter.org or by phone at 620-663-1081.

The Autumn Consignment Art Auction is a key fundraiser for the Art Center and features works from both local and regional artists.

Art Center postpones consignment art auction 

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

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A fire engine that once helped protect Hutchinson is being preserved as a symbol of service and sacrifice, but now it needs a little help from the community it once served.

International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 179, the union representing Hutchinson firefighters, is raising funds to restore a 1969 American LaFrance fire truck that spent nearly three decades in active service before becoming a ceremonial vehicle used for parades, weddings and firefighter funerals.

The engine was retired by the city in 1996. One firefighter purchased it shortly after, maintaining it for several years before the union bought it in the early 2000s for about $8,000. Since then, it has become a fixture at department events and memorials, a rolling tribute to the profession’s past.

“It’s one of those cool old relics from back in the day,” said Patrick Weathers, a captain with the department and the GoFundMe organizer. “It’s almost 60 years old now. I don't think it pumps anymore, but it’s been a part of so many of our events, parades, weddings, funerals, it really means something to a lot of people.”

Earlier this year, the union had to replace the tires and perform an alignment. Then the transmission gave out, prompting an emergency tow to another station where a mechanic, could get under the hood. The transmission hadn’t been serviced in more than 40 years. An outdated filter from a long-defunct parts store was still in place.

“We’re just cobbling together money where we can,” Weathers said. “We’ve always had little issues with the battery system and starting it up, but the transmission failure kind of forced our hand. We couldn’t let it sit any longer.”

The ceremonial truck is maintained by the union’s honor guard and funded largely through member dues, memorial donations, and small contributions from events. But with aging components piling up, the union launched a GoFundMe campaign in July, hoping to raise $4,000 for front-end work, air system repairs, and electrical upgrades.

“There are a lot of guys who fought fires on that truck,” Weathers said. “When they see it pop up on Facebook, it brings back memories. That’s what makes it worth preserving.”

The engine still sports its original paint and is stored indoors at Reno County Fire District #3 station. It’s started every Saturday and brought out about a dozen times a year, including appearances at MDA Fill the Boot, school tours and special occasions. But it’s perhaps most revered for its role in honoring fallen firefighters.

“It’s powerful when you see someone being carried to their final resting place on the back of that truck,” Weathers said. “It’s our way of showing respect.”

Those wishing to contribute can donate online through the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/preserve-iaff-local-179s-beloved-firetruck">GoFundMe page</a> or drop off checks at any Hutchinson fire station, marked for the IAFF union truck. All donations go directly to the union and its honor guard fund for maintenance and repairs.

Union firefighters turn to community to help restore vintage Hutchinson fire truck

Laura Meyer Dick stopped by to visit about the progress of the restoration at the Landmark.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎧BW Morning Show Interview: Laura Meyer Dick, Meyer Landmark 

Wes Bartlett from Stage 9 stopped by the BW Morning Show to visit about auditions coming up this weekend for the upcoming production of "Into the Breeches".&nbsp;

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Wes Bartlett, Stage 9

Dry, and getting drier.&nbsp; The Army Corps of Engineers says that in June, the runoff in the Missouri River Basin was 40% below average.

The snowpack melted quicker than normal, and the forecast is for dry conditions to continue into July.&nbsp; 

That spells bad news for shipping ag commodities to the gulf.

AG Minute: Ag shipping on the Missouri River

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. ——————————————

Mysterie	Elizabeth Nuser&nbsp;7/16/2025 10:29 AM&nbsp;&nbsp;Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)

Christian Lee&nbsp;Prebble&nbsp;7/16/2025 11:56 AM&nbsp;&nbsp;Indecent Liberties with a Child 14-15YOA; AGGRAVATED; Sexual Intercourse

Arthur	Junior&nbsp;Thomas&nbsp;7/16/2025 12:42 PM&nbsp;&nbsp;Littering; Public property,&nbsp;Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,&nbsp;Possession of marijuana

Jason Charles Stanford&nbsp;7/16/2025 2:11 PM&nbsp; Probation Violation&nbsp;

Leroy	Cornelius Paige Jr&nbsp;7/16/2025 3:19 PM&nbsp; Probation Violation&nbsp;

Jacqueline	Nicole McGraw&nbsp;7/16/2025 5:38 PM&nbsp; Failure to Appear&nbsp;

Aaron Lee Kuhns 7/16/2025 9:49 PM&nbsp;&nbsp;Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

Leon	Kevin Koch&nbsp;7/17/2025 1:36 AM&nbsp;&nbsp;Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misdemeanor case, Execution of Misdemeanor Warrant,&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000,&nbsp;Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation,&nbsp;Aggravated battery on LEO; Great body harm to officer



Daily Bookings 

DALLAS (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was sentenced to 30 days in jail on Thursday after authorities said he and another speeding driver caused a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-24b9e3281d0bca8c0c13a0cedda57b93">chain-reaction crash</a>&nbsp;that left multiple people injured on a Dallas highway last year.

The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office said Rice pleaded guilty to two third-degree felony charges of collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury in the March 30, 2024, crash. As part of a plea agreement, Rice was sentenced to five years of deferred probation and 30 days in jail as a condition of his probation, prosecutors said.

Prosecutors said he was also required to pay the victims for their out-of-pocket medical expenses, which totaled about $115,000.

Rice was driving a Lamborghini Urus SUV at 119 mph (191 kph) when he made “multiple aggressive maneuvers around traffic” and struck other vehicles, prosecutors said. Prosecutors said that after the crash, Rice failed to check on the welfare of those in the other vehicles and fled on foot.

The news release from prosecutors included a statement from Rice that was released by his attorney. Rice said in the statement that he’s had “a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages that my actions caused, and I will continue working within my means to make sure that everyone impacted will be made whole.”

🏈 Chiefs WR Rashee Rice sentenced to 30 days in jail over Dallas high-speed crash

NICKERSON, Kan. — When Trish Wade got the call, she didn’t know if she had another season in her.

After 17 years of building one of Kansas’ most consistent small-school volleyball powerhouses at St. John-Hudson, Wade was unexpectedly let go from the program she’d poured her heart and soul into. The separation came with little warning and plenty of emotion, a jarring end to a chapter defined by discipline, intensity and winning.

“I was still finishing the school year, still processing everything,” Wade said. “It was hard. I felt like I still had more to give, but I didn’t know what the next step would be.”

Then Nickerson High School Athletic Director Devin Maxwell came calling, and kept calling.

Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 officially approved Wade’s hiring as the Panthers’ new head volleyball coach at its July board meeting earlier this week, welcoming in one of the state’s most decorated coaches and a fierce competitor known for turning potential into championships. She replaces Hannah Schrag.

“Coach Wade knows what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Maxwell said. “She’s dedicated to instilling that same drive and excellence in her athletes.”

That drive defined Wade’s 17-year run at St. John, where she compiled more than 420 career victories and guided the Tigers to three Class 1A state championships. Under her leadership, St. John claimed its first volleyball title in her first season in 2008 with a 43-2 record, then followed with back-to-back Class 1A Division I crowns in 2010 and 2011. Her teams advanced to the state semifinals 10 times, including a return trip last fall to the state tournament with a 29-15 finish.

Wade built more than a trophy case, she built belief.

“I’ve always been high energy,” she said. “I coach with passion, and I expect a lot. But what I’ve learned over the years is how important it is to build a culture, one where kids believe they can do hard things.”

Now she’s taking that mindset to Nickerson, where the Panthers are looking to bounce back after an 12-25 season in 2024. Wade believes they have the talent, and the hunger, to do just that.

“We’ve got good pieces,” Wade said. “Delaney Childs and Denae Engelland are two athletes who stand out. They’re leaders, and they’re coachable. The whole group has responded with a willingness to learn, and that’s where it all starts.”

Wade’s belief in hard work and hustle traces back to her own upbringing. A Haviland native and graduate of Haviland High School, she grew up in a tight-knit community where sports were a way of life and character mattered as much as talent.

She carried those values into her playing career, becoming a standout at Barton Community College, where she led the Cougars to a 111-10 record and two Top-4 NJCAA National Tournament finishes from 1985 to 1986. A two-time NJCAA All-American, she was inducted into Barton’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.

Wade then transferred to Florida Southern College, where she earned AVCA Second Team All-America honors in 1987 and was twice named First Team All-Sunshine State Conference. She still holds school records for solo blocks in a match (11), season (99) and career (182), and remains among the program’s all-time leaders in multiple statistical categories.

After college, Wade returned to Kansas and eventually began her coaching career with club teams in Wichita. But it wasn’t until she took the job at St. John that she truly found her calling.

“I walked into a good situation with great kids,” she said. “But we had to learn how to win, not just physically, but mentally. That’s what I love about coaching. Teaching that mindset. Helping athletes realize what they’re capable of.”

When Wade was released from her duties at St. John this spring, she initially considered stepping away from coaching altogether. But Maxwell’s persistence, and the support of her family, ultimately helped her say yes to one more chapter. Wade already has ties to Reno County, with family in Hutchinson, Pretty Prairie and just outside of Nickerson.

“I didn’t want to be done,” she said. "I'm a huge believer, and I do believe this is a God thing. I'm not saying he took my job away, but he made a way for me to continue coaching and doing what I love. I just didn’t want my story to end that way.”

Though the transition to the new group of players in Nickerson is ongoing, she’s already seeing buy-in from her new team.

“I told the girls, we’re not just going to lose anymore,” she said. “That kind of mindset doesn’t belong in our gym. If we’re going to change the culture, it starts with believing we can win again. I believe that you can build a program off of discipline, heart, hustle and the mindset of a competitor.”

Helping drive that transformation are two new assistant coaches. Her daughter, Teresa Rush, a former standout at St. John, where she was coached by her mom. She then went onto be a two-time NJCAA All-American at Hutchinson Community College and former member of the Kansas State volleyball support staff under longtime head coach Suzie Fritz, joins the bench with a decorated playing and coaching background. The other assistant, Allie Frederick, brings multi-sport athletic experience and the same competitive edge Wade demands.

“It was such an honor to coach Teresa while she was at St. John and now have her on my staff is a whole new privilege that I am extremely thankful for," Wade said. "Teresa said she’d do anything for me, and now here we are, coaching side by side. She’s young, smart, and has a great understanding of what it takes to compete at a high level. And Allie brings a ton of energy and drive. Our chemistry as a staff has been immediate, and that will show up in how we coach our kids.”

The new job also means stepping into one of the toughest leagues in Kansas, the Central Kansas League, home to the defending Class 3A state champions, Halstead. That program is led by Wade’s longtime friend and coaching peer, Diana Schutte, adding another layer of intensity and excitement to her new role.

“I sent Diana a message and said, ‘Girl, I get to see you more than once a year now!’” Wade said with a laugh. “I love coaching against her. The energy, the competitiveness, it just brings out the best in everyone. And being in a league like this? It forces you to get better every day.”

Wade isn’t promising state titles overnight. She’s promising effort, intensity, and steady growth, the kind of change that builds real foundations.

“This program used to be respected,” she said. “And there’s no reason it can’t be again. We’ve got the athletes, we’ve got the work ethic. Now it’s about building belief, day by day.”

That belief isn’t just about wins and losses, she said. It’s about buying into a new culture, one that values preparation, toughness and togetherness.

“If we get beat, we’ll know why, and we’ll fix it,” Wade said. “We’re going to be a team that competes every night, that never gives in, and that grows into something we can all be proud of.”

Beyond the court, Wade hopes to energize the community and re-establish Nickerson volleyball as a point of pride. She’s been blown away by the local support and says she’s “exactly where I’m supposed to be.”

🏐 After championship legacy at St. John, Trish Wade ready to build a new era at Nickerson

🎧⚾ Royals reunite with Frazier; ⚾ Monarchs place 13 on ASG roster; 🥎 HutchCC's Aguirre earns national award

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs will be well represented in Saturday night’s Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star Game, placing a league-high 13 players on the roster. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson. The game will be streamed live on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hutchpost.com/">HutchPost.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.monarchslive.tv/">MonarchsLive.TV</a>.

Monarchs Place 13 on Jayhawk League All-Star Roster. Named to the 2025 All-Star team include utility players: Jeter Worthley, Jackson Legg, AJ Mustow, Tyson Vassart, Joey Senstock, Jacob Gutierrez, Blake Bradford, Drew Bugner. Pitchers: Daegan Vinduska, Bradyn McClure, Carson Gonzalez, Ethan Giesbrecht and Riley Dickey.

The game showcases the top talent from the Jayhawk Collegiate League and serves as a key highlight ahead of the NBC World Series, now in its 91st year. The Monarchs, who recently clinched the Jayhawk League Championship, await their seeding in the tournament, which begins July 24 at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

Hutchinson’s All-Star hosting duties offer fans one more look at the dominant Monarchs squad before they begin their postseason run.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs to host Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game Saturday

🏀 KU unveils non-conference women's hoops schedule

🥎 Bredbenner adds trio of former players to coaching staff at WSU

Hutchinson Community College assistant softball coach Ray Aguirre earned a national honor on Wednesday being named the Easton/National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) NJCAA Division I National Assistant Coach of the Year.

Aguirre has been with the Blue Dragon softball program for since 2017. He became a full-time assistant coach in 2021. Over that span, the Blue Dragons have won 198 games, two Jayhawk Conference titles, a Region 6/Plains District championship and was part of Hutchinson's first-ever appearance in the NJCAA Softball World Series.

Aguirre serves as the Blue Dragons' pitching coach, first-base coach and Recruiting Coordinator. He is also in charge of field maintenance.

"Ray is a tireless worker and recruiter," Blue Dragon head coach Jaime Rose said. "His compassion for the players in unmatched."

As the Blue Dragon pitching coach, Hutchinson's average staff ERA has been 3.60 since 2021.

Aguirre's 2022, 2023 and 2024 pitching staffs all rank in the Top 5 in program single-game history. The 2024 Region 6 champion's team ERA is second all-time at 2.75. The 2023 team is fourth at 2.80 and the 2022 team is fifth at 2.89.

The 2025 pitching staff endured injuries throughout the season and under Aguirre's tutelage, the Blue Dragons still posted a 3.59 team ERA en route to a conference title. Pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/tomlinson_morgan_0v0v">Morgan Tomlinson</a>, a two-time 20-win pitcher at Hutchinson, was a first-team All-KJCCC selection,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/schmidt_jessica_edec">Jessica Schmidt</a>&nbsp;was a second team selection and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/thomas_aubree_o0p2">Aubree Thomas</a>&nbsp;as an honorable mention all-conference player.

Aguirre has coached two All-American pitchers in his tenure: Dakota Lake (2024/NFCA) and Riley Wertz (2022/NJCAA).

Aguirre's overall recruiting as netted the Blue Dragons 34 all-KJCCC selections and eight All-America awards.

Before coming to Hutchinson, Aguirre was the pitching coach for Friends University in Wichita for 11 seasons.

🥎 HutchCC's Ray Aguirre named NFCA's NJCAA DI Assistant Coach of the Year

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Hutchinson Community College earned national recognition for overall athletic excellence in the 2024-25 Ron Case Cup presented by Daktronics, finishing 13th in the country among two-year colleges.

The Blue Dragons totaled 97.5 points in the annual competition, which ranks the top athletic programs in the National Alliance of Two-Year College Athletic Administrators (NATYCAA) Scholarship Division. Hutchinson was one of three Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) schools to place in the top 15, joining fourth-place Barton Community College (163 points) and eighth-place Cowley College (129.5 points).

Two additional KJCCC schools, Johnson County (17th, 80.5 points) and Butler (26th, 62.5 points), also cracked the top 30.

The Ron Case Cup, formerly known as the NATYCAA Cup, awards points based on a college’s top five team finishes per gender at the highest level of postseason competition. First-place finishes earn 20 points, with a sliding scale down to one point.

This marks the seventh year the award has been sponsored by Daktronics and the first under its new name, honoring former NATYCAA president Ron Case, who led the organization’s Cup initiative from its creation in 2004 until his retirement in June 2024.

Iowa Western claimed the top spot with 179.5 points, followed by College of Dupage (165 points) and Iowa Central (164.5 points) to round out the top three.&nbsp;

HutchCC finishes 13th nationally in 2024-25 Ron Case Cup standings

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Royals have brought back a familiar face, acquiring veteran utility man Adam Frazier from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for infielder Cam Devanney, according to a report from FanSided’s Robert Murray.

Frazier, 33, was batting .255 with a .318 on-base percentage, three home runs and seven stolen bases in 78 games this season for Pittsburgh. He played for Kansas City in 2024, hitting just .202 over 104 games, but remains valued for his leadership and versatility. A left-handed hitter, Frazier has posted a .267 average against right-handed pitching this year and can slot in at second base or the corner outfield.

Despite his experience, Frazier's overall production remains below league average with an OPS+ of 83, an upgrade at best for a Royals lineup that has struggled offensively.

Devanney, 28, was recently called up from Triple-A Omaha but did not appear in a game for the Royals. He was acquired from Milwaukee in the offseason trade that sent reliever Taylor Clarke to the Brewers. At the time of the trade, Devanney was hitting .272 with 18 homers and a .931 OPS in Triple-A.

⚾ Royals acquiring Adam Frazier from Pirates

🎧⚾ NL wins ASG in swing-off; ⚾ Monarchs drop second straight; 🏐 Nickerson hires Trish Wade as head coach

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating two homicides that occurred on Tuesday in Kansas City have identified the victims.

Just before noon, patrol officers responded to the 8700 block of Countryshire Lane on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

As officers arrived at an apartment building they were directed inside to an apartment. They located a woman, later identified as 24-year-old Jaida Perdue suffering from a gunshot wound. Paramedics responded and declared her deceased on scene

This is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary investigation revealed there was an argument between two individuals that led to shots being fired and the victim being struck. On scene, a subject of interest was taken into custody pending further investigation.

About the same time, police were called to a reported shooting at an apartment complex in the 5200 block of Oak Leaf Drive, according to DiMartino.&nbsp;

Officers were directed to an apartment building within the complex. Inside of an apartment officers located a victim later identified as 36-year-Nicholas J. Carter&nbsp; suffering from gunshot wounds. KCFD medics responded to the scene and pronounced Carter deceased.

Police ID 2 homicide victims in Kansas City

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/devi-shastri">DEVI SHASTRI</a> Associated Press

The 988 National Suicide &amp; Crisis Lifeline will stop providing tailored support options to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trans-rights-dei-6367d501717f1388677e128af277fe26">LGBTQ+ youth</a>&nbsp;and young adults on July 17, according to a statement on a federal agency’s website.

The decision preempts the Trump administration’s 2026 budget proposal to cut funding for 988’s LGBTQ+ youth and young adult services, and is raising alarm bells among LGBTQ+ advocates.

Federal data shows the LGBTQ+ youth program has served nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/988/performance-metrics" target="_blank">1.3 million callers</a>&nbsp;since it started in September 2022. The services were accessible under the “Press 3” option on the phone or by replying “PRIDE” via text.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988.

The decision was was made to “no longer silo” the services and “to focus on serving all help seekers, including those previously served through the Press 3 option,” the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hhs-addiction-mental-health-rfk-samsha-e83db20b4ef801971cd25d07eb41bcf9">Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)</a>&nbsp;said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/about/news-announcements/statements/2025/samhsa-statement-988-press-3-option" target="_blank">in a statement dated Tuesday</a>&nbsp;on its website.

News of the LGBTQ+ service shutting down comes as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-transgender-health-care-trump-79fc6f3bbdab2e92d6f0184201a468a9">U.S. Supreme Court upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday.

The Trevor Project said it received official notice Tuesday that the program was ending. The nonprofit is one of seven centers that provides 988 crisis support services for LGBTQ+ people — and serves nearly half of the people who contact the lifeline.

“&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/suicide-prevention-mental-health-23b0282c56074625fa1be182afd860bd">Suicide prevention</a>&nbsp;is about people, not politics,” Trevor Project CEO Jaymes Black said in a statement Wednesday. “The administration’s decision to remove a bipartisan, evidence-based service that has effectively supported a high-risk group of young people through their darkest moments is incomprehensible.”

In its statement on the 988 decision, SAMHSA referred to the “LGB+ youth services.”

Black called the omission of the “T” representing transgender people “callous.” “Transgender people can never, and will never, be erased,” he said.

The Trevor Project will continue to run its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thetrevorproject.org/Get-Help/" target="_blank">24/7 mental health support services</a>, as will other organizations, and leaders of 988 say the hotline will serve anyone who calls with compassion.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-suicide-rate-cdc-c57bb0852adfb4d85b3670d465a8b890">there were 49,300 suicides in 2023</a>&nbsp;— about the highest level in the nation’s history, based on preliminary data.

Studies have shown that LGBTQ+ youth are at higher risk of suicide, including a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/su/su7304a6.htm#:~:text=An%20estimated%2040%25%20of%20transgender,marker%20for%20experiencing%20depressive%20symptoms." target="_blank">2024 analysis by the CDC</a>&nbsp;that found 26% transgender and gender-questioning students attempted suicide in the past year. That’s compared with 5% of cisgender male and 11% of cisgender female students.

Young transgender people&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-trump-title-ix-1b9d3a1d928ea78c21372da63600c6d1">flooded crisis hotlines</a>&nbsp;with calls after President Donald Trump was re-elected. Trump made anti-transgender themes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-transgender-politics-61cff97a64fac581ffc5f762be4c57d3">central to his campaign</a>&nbsp;and has since rolled back many&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-passports-nonbinary-trump-policy-e5d13b6064c06619c654896fc0305983">civil rights protections</a>&nbsp;and access to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hhs-rfk-transgender-therapy-53c20e8ba65b2d9e4750d5c3314492cc">gender-affirming care</a>.

Trump signed the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/2661" target="_blank">National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020</a>&nbsp;into law in October 2020.

The specific 988 subprogram for LGBTQ+ youth cost $33 million in fiscal year 2024, according to SAMHSA, and as of June 2025, more than $33 million has been spent on the services. The Trump administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/fy-2026-budget-in-brief.pdf" target="_blank">2026 budget proposal</a>&nbsp;called for keeping 988’s total budget at $520 million even while&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/fy-2026-aha-cj.pdf" target="_blank">eliminating the LGBTQ+ services</a>.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-robert-kennedy-vaccines-measles-steak-shake-9c970a1f6bdfd6ac4b4160480e996ac0">Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;wants to wrap SAMHSA and other agencies into a new HHS office called Administration for a Healthy America, where it would coexist with employees from other agencies responsible for chemical exposures and work-related injuries.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

988 hotline service tailored to LGBTQ+ youth ends this weekend

KANSAS CITY —Two Kansas City men are facing charges for allegedly shooting guns into a downtown Kansas City apartment building last weekend.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2670/Miller-REDACT-COMP">Sincere D. Miller</a>, 24,&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2672/Williams-REDACT-COMP">Kimoni Williams</a>, 23,&nbsp;each face one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon and one count of Armed Criminal Action, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2671/millersincere---pc-statementredacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police responded to the sound of shots on 13th and Grand Boulevard on July 11 and located Miller and Williams holding firearms. Multiple witnesses heard sounds of shots and observed the defendants shooting their firearms toward a nearby apartment building while standing outside a vehicle.&nbsp;

City camera footage showed the defendants entering their vehicle and a green laser beam pointed at them prior to the shooting.&nbsp;

Both defendants told police they heard gunshots from nearby blocks and observed the green laser beam on themselves and on one defendant’s daughter, who was in the backseat. Feeling threatened, they began firing into the building, striking multiple occupied apartments.&nbsp;