HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College volleyball team had its ups and downs on Day 1 of the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic at the Sports Arena on Friday.

Sophomore Tiana Simmons had a career-high 18 kills in Match No. 1 as Hutchinson defeated the McCook Indians in four sets, 25-10, 23-25, 25-23, 25-20.

The Blue Dragons lost some momentum after sitting through a five-set match before theirs with Iowa Western. Hutchinson lost in four sets to the Reivers, 19-25, 25-21, 13-25, 22-25.

Hutchinson will play Missouri State-West Plains at Noon and Labette at 2 p.m. on Saturday, both matches on Court 1, to close out the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic.

The Blue Dragons are now 10-8 overall and 8-6 in weekend tournament matchups this season.

Simmons paces the Blue Dragons with 18 kills on .310 hitting against McCook. Simmons added a season-high six total blocks to lead Hutchinson.

Freshman setter Ellie Suber posted her second-straight double-double with 34 assists and 10 digs.

Freshman Atlyn Proctor had 12 kills and three blocks. Sophomore middle blocker McKenzie Murphy had six kills and four blocks, including one solo block. Sophomore middle Precious Johnson added five kills and three blocks.

Freshman libero Addy Foster posted her fourth 20-plus dig performance of the season with a match-high 20 digs. Foster also had a season-high four ace serves.

Freshman defensive specialist Bea Carvalho had 10 digs and three aces.

The victory was head coach Delice Downing’s 96th in her tenure with the Blue Dragons, which moved her into sole possession of fourth place on the Hutchinson career coaching wins list.

After winning the second set to knot their match with Iowa Western at 1-1, the Blue Dragon offense sputtered as the Reivers won the serve-and-pass battle the final two sets.

Proctor led the Blue Dragons with 12 kills against Iowa Western, which is 2-0 against Hutchinson this season.

Johnson finished with seven kills and four total blocks. Simmons had six kills and three blocks.

Sophomore setter Shelbi Wilson had 20 assists. Suber had 12 assists and two aces.

Foster posted her second-straight 20-plug dig match of the day and fifth of the season with 20 digs. Freshman defensive specialist Siani Sanchez had 11 digs and Carvalho had 10 digs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726917941638.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College volleyball team had its ups and downs on Day 1 of the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic at the Sports Arena on Friday.Sophomore Tiana Simmons had a career-high 18 kills in Match No. 1 as Hutchinson defeated the McCook Indians in four sets, 25-10, 23-25, 25-23, 25-20.The Blue Dragons lost some momentum after sitting through a five-set match before theirs with Iowa Western. Hutchinson lost in four sets to the Reivers, 19-25, 25-21, 13-25, 22-25.Hutchinson will play Missouri State-West Plains at Noon and Labette at 2 p.m. on Saturday, both matches on Court 1, to close out the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic.The Blue Dragons are now 10-8 overall and 8-6 in weekend tournament matchups this season.McCOOK MATCHUPSimmons paces the Blue Dragons with 18 kills on .310 hitting against McCook. Simmons added a season-high six total blocks to lead Hutchinson.Freshman setter Ellie Suber posted her second-straight double-double with 34 assists and 10 digs.Freshman Atlyn Proctor had 12 kills and three blocks. Sophomore middle blocker McKenzie Murphy had six kills and four blocks, including one solo block. Sophomore middle Precious Johnson added five kills and three blocks.Freshman libero Addy Foster posted her fourth 20-plus dig performance of the season with a match-high 20 digs. Foster also had a season-high four ace serves.Freshman defensive specialist Bea Carvalho had 10 digs and three aces.The victory was head coach Delice Downing’s 96th in her tenure with the Blue Dragons, which moved her into sole possession of fourth place on the Hutchinson career coaching wins list.IOWA WESTERN MATCHUPAfter winning the second set to knot their match with Iowa Western at 1-1, the Blue Dragon offense sputtered as the Reivers won the serve-and-pass battle the final two sets.Proctor led the Blue Dragons with 12 kills against Iowa Western, which is 2-0 against Hutchinson this season.Johnson finished with seven kills and four total blocks. Simmons had six kills and three blocks.Sophomore setter Shelbi Wilson had 20 assists. Suber had 12 assists and two aces.Foster posted her second-straight 20-plug dig match of the day and fifth of the season with 20 digs. Freshman defensive specialist Siani Sanchez had 11 digs and Carvalho had 10 digs.

🏐 Dragons split in day one of classic

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Finally playing at home after 15 games on the road to open the 2024 season, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team hit better than .400 in its first two sets back at the Sports Arena Wednesday night against Cloud County.

The Blue Dragons cooled off in the latter stages of the match and earned a 3-1 KJCCC victory over the Thunderbirds, winning 25-8, 25-13, 24-26, 25-16.

Hutchinson improved to 9-7 overall and 2-2 in the Jayhawk Conference. The Blue Dragons will play McCook, Iowa Western, Missouri State-West Plains and Labette this weekend in the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic at the Sports Arena. Cloud County is now 3-11 overall and 0-5 in the KJCCC.

The Blue Dragons dominated early, out-hitting Cloud County .462 to a minus .154 in the first set and .400 to a minus .031 in the second set. Hutchinson cooled off in the third and fourth sets and wound up out-hitting the Thunderbirds for the match .236 to a minus .008. The Dragons held Cloud County to negative hitting percentages in three of the four sets.

Freshman Atlyn Proctor led the Blue Dragons with 17 kills, hitting .433 on 30 attacks. Proctor had four digs and three block assists.

Sophomore Tiana Simmons had 14 kills on .111 hitting. She had a season-high eight digs with two service aces and two assists.

Freshman Viktoria Graf also reached double figures in kills with 10 kills on .200 hitting. She had six digs and three block assists.

Sophomore middle McKenzie Murphy had a season-high nine kills on .471 hitting. She added five total blocks, including one solo block.

The Blue Dragons out-blocked Cloud County 9-7 and out-dug the Thunderbirds 52-41. The Dragons also racked up a season-high 10 service aces.

Freshman setter Ellie Suber earned her first career double-double with 39 set assists and 10 digs.

Freshman libero Addy Foster had a team-high 14 digs.

Freshman Beatriz Carvalho had season highs of four service aces, five set assists and four digs.

SET 1 – The Blue Dragons were balanced offensively in the opening set with five kills from Murphy and four each from Proctor and Graf. Tied at 3-3, the Dragons went on a 7-0 run to take a 10-3 lead after a Simmons kills. A Murphy kill extended the run to 13-2 for a 16-5 Hutchinson lead. Back-to-back kills from Proctor extended the run to 16-3 and a 19-6 Dragon lead. Hutchison closed the set on a 6-1 run, getting a Simmons kill on set point for a 25-8 victory.

SET 2 – Hutchinson had an 8-5 lead and broke open the set with a 7-0 run on Graf’s serve. A Murphy kill capped the run and the Dragons led 15-5. A Graf kill upped the Dragon advantage to 19-10. The Dragons scored five unanswered points with a kill from Graf and a Graf/Murphy double block. Simmons had an ace to give the Dragons a 24-12 lead. Graf finished off the set with a kill. The Dragons had 13 kills and four blocks in the second set.

SET 3 – The third set was much tighter with six lead changes and 13 ties. After Cloud jumped out to a 3-0 lead, Hutchinson answered with a 5-0 run and led 5-3 after a Proctor kill. Tied at 20, a Proctor kill, a Proctor/Kierny Follmer double block and an Angela Reupena service ace gave the Dragons a 23-20 lead. The teams traded points to 24-21. Cloud County fought off three match points and scored the final five points of the set for a 26-24 win. Cloud County out-hit the Dragons in the third set .207-.103.

SET 4 – Trailing 3-1 early, the Blue Dragons went on a nine-point service run on Carvalho’s serve. Carvalho had four aces in that run, the fourth giving Hutchinson a 10-3 lead. The Dragons built a 16-4 lead on Foster’s serve. The longest scoring run from that point was three, by the Dragons. Hutchinson hit only .091 in the fourth set, getting a set-high four kills from Simmons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726746479778.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Finally playing at home after 15 games on the road to open the 2024 season, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team hit better than .400 in its first two sets back at the Sports Arena Wednesday night against Cloud County.The Blue Dragons cooled off in the latter stages of the match and earned a 3-1 KJCCC victory over the Thunderbirds, winning 25-8, 25-13, 24-26, 25-16.Hutchinson improved to 9-7 overall and 2-2 in the Jayhawk Conference. The Blue Dragons will play McCook, Iowa Western, Missouri State-West Plains and Labette this weekend in the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic at the Sports Arena. Cloud County is now 3-11 overall and 0-5 in the KJCCC.The Blue Dragons dominated early, out-hitting Cloud County .462 to a minus .154 in the first set and .400 to a minus .031 in the second set. Hutchinson cooled off in the third and fourth sets and wound up out-hitting the Thunderbirds for the match .236 to a minus .008. The Dragons held Cloud County to negative hitting percentages in three of the four sets.Freshman Atlyn Proctor led the Blue Dragons with 17 kills, hitting .433 on 30 attacks. Proctor had four digs and three block assists.Sophomore Tiana Simmons had 14 kills on .111 hitting. She had a season-high eight digs with two service aces and two assists.Freshman Viktoria Graf also reached double figures in kills with 10 kills on .200 hitting. She had six digs and three block assists.Sophomore middle McKenzie Murphy had a season-high nine kills on .471 hitting. She added five total blocks, including one solo block.The Blue Dragons out-blocked Cloud County 9-7 and out-dug the Thunderbirds 52-41. The Dragons also racked up a season-high 10 service aces.Freshman setter Ellie Suber earned her first career double-double with 39 set assists and 10 digs.Freshman libero Addy Foster had a team-high 14 digs.Freshman Beatriz Carvalho had season highs of four service aces, five set assists and four digs.SET 1 – The Blue Dragons were balanced offensively in the opening set with five kills from Murphy and four each from Proctor and Graf. Tied at 3-3, the Dragons went on a 7-0 run to take a 10-3 lead after a Simmons kills. A Murphy kill extended the run to 13-2 for a 16-5 Hutchinson lead. Back-to-back kills from Proctor extended the run to 16-3 and a 19-6 Dragon lead. Hutchison closed the set on a 6-1 run, getting a Simmons kill on set point for a 25-8 victory.SET 2 – Hutchinson had an 8-5 lead and broke open the set with a 7-0 run on Graf’s serve. A Murphy kill capped the run and the Dragons led 15-5. A Graf kill upped the Dragon advantage to 19-10. The Dragons scored five unanswered points with a kill from Graf and a Graf/Murphy double block. Simmons had an ace to give the Dragons a 24-12 lead. Graf finished off the set with a kill. The Dragons had 13 kills and four blocks in the second set.SET 3 – The third set was much tighter with six lead changes and 13 ties. After Cloud jumped out to a 3-0 lead, Hutchinson answered with a 5-0 run and led 5-3 after a Proctor kill. Tied at 20, a Proctor kill, a Proctor/Kierny Follmer double block and an Angela Reupena service ace gave the Dragons a 23-20 lead. The teams traded points to 24-21. Cloud County fought off three match points and scored the final five points of the set for a 26-24 win. Cloud County out-hit the Dragons in the third set .207-.103.SET 4 – Trailing 3-1 early, the Blue Dragons went on a nine-point service run on Carvalho’s serve. Carvalho had four aces in that run, the fourth giving Hutchinson a 10-3 lead. The Dragons built a 16-4 lead on Foster’s serve. The longest scoring run from that point was three, by the Dragons. Hutchinson hit only .091 in the fourth set, getting a set-high four kills from Simmons.

🏐 Finally at home, Dragons down Cloud in 4

After being stunned early after a goal against in the third minute on Wednesday’s NJCAA Top 20 battle, the Hutchinson Community College Women’s Soccer team stayed the course and earned another key KJCCC league point.

Sophomore Katharina Marx scored the equalizer in the 50th minute and the No. 17 Blue Dragons battled to a 1-1 draw with the ninth-ranked Kansas City Blue Devils on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex.

The Blue Dragons are now 4-1-3 overall and 3-1-3 (12 points) in the KJCCC. Kansas City remained unbeaten at 6-0-2 overall and 4-0-2 (14 points) in the KJCCC. The Blue Dragons are off on Saturday and will return to action next Wednesday at No. 14 Cowley.

Kansas City took an early 1-0 lead just 2:35 into the game when Cora Ellerman scored on a Jaycee Schumann assist. The Blue Devils kept that one-goal lead into halftime.

The Dragons started to sustain some offensive pressure in the second half.

Winning a couple of 50-50 balls in the offensive zone, sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards slid a pass to a wide-open Marx, who scored her fifth goal of the season to tie the game with 40:35 to play in the second half.

Statistically, the game was played at an even pace. Kansas City out-shot the Blue Dragons 15-13, but were 9-9 in the second half. The Devils had three corner kicks to Hutchinson’s two.

Blue Dragon sophomore goalkeeper Karsyn Slothower (3-1-2) made eight saves against the Blue Devils. Slothower now has 129 career saves, third most in Blue Dragon history.

Kansas City goalkeeper Maria Heuman made five saves.

The Blue Dragons lead the all-time series with the Blue Devils 6-1-3.

With their third draw of the 2024 season, the Blue Dragons tie a season record for ties in a season, matching the 2020/21 and 2023 Hutchinson teams.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726744507970.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationAfter being stunned early after a goal against in the third minute on Wednesday’s NJCAA Top 20 battle, the Hutchinson Community College Women’s Soccer team stayed the course and earned another key KJCCC league point.Sophomore Katharina Marx scored the equalizer in the 50th minute and the No. 17 Blue Dragons battled to a 1-1 draw with the ninth-ranked Kansas City Blue Devils on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex.The Blue Dragons are now 4-1-3 overall and 3-1-3 (12 points) in the KJCCC. Kansas City remained unbeaten at 6-0-2 overall and 4-0-2 (14 points) in the KJCCC. The Blue Dragons are off on Saturday and will return to action next Wednesday at No. 14 Cowley.Kansas City took an early 1-0 lead just 2:35 into the game when Cora Ellerman scored on a Jaycee Schumann assist. The Blue Devils kept that one-goal lead into halftime.The Dragons started to sustain some offensive pressure in the second half.Winning a couple of 50-50 balls in the offensive zone, sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards slid a pass to a wide-open Marx, who scored her fifth goal of the season to tie the game with 40:35 to play in the second half.Statistically, the game was played at an even pace. Kansas City out-shot the Blue Dragons 15-13, but were 9-9 in the second half. The Devils had three corner kicks to Hutchinson’s two.Blue Dragon sophomore goalkeeper Karsyn Slothower (3-1-2) made eight saves against the Blue Devils. Slothower now has 129 career saves, third most in Blue Dragon history.Kansas City goalkeeper Maria Heuman made five saves.The Blue Dragons lead the all-time series with the Blue Devils 6-1-3.With their third draw of the 2024 season, the Blue Dragons tie a season record for ties in a season, matching the 2020/21 and 2023 Hutchinson teams.

⚽ Dragons draw in Top 20 matchup

Saturday's come-from-behind 33-30 overtime victory by the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team over No. 12 Iowa Central continues to reap rewards.

One day after both players earned Jayhawk Conference Player of the Week honors, Blue Dragon quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/bios/collier_samari_f7ro">Samari Collier</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Offensive Player of the Week and kicker&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/bios/burger_nestus_ljhj">Nestus Burger</a>&nbsp;was named the national Special Teams Player of the Week on Wednesday.

Collier won his second NJCAA National Offensive Player of the Week award after the sophomore from DeSoto, Texas threw for a career high 300 yards and two touchdowns in the final 6:19 to force overtime against the Tritons. Collier also won the award on November 8, 2023

Burger also won his second national Special Teams Award. The kicker from Perth Australia also won on October 11, 2023.

On Saturday, the Blue Dragons trailed Iowa Central 30-16 in the fourth quarter.

Collier was 23 of 40 passing for 300 yards and three touchdowns against the Tritons. He also added 89 rushing yards on 14 carries.

Collier threw two touchdown passes in the final 4:12 of the fourth quarter to force overtime.

In overtime, Burger kicked a walk-off 36-yard field goal to complete a 14-point comeback over Iowa Central.

Burger was 2 for 2 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra-points in the Blue Dragon victory. He also had four touchbacks on 6 kickoffs vs. the Tritons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726686927791.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy&nbsp; HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy&nbsp; HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationSaturday's come-from-behind 33-30 overtime victory by the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team over No. 12 Iowa Central continues to reap rewards.One day after both players earned Jayhawk Conference Player of the Week honors, Blue Dragon quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/bios/collier_samari_f7ro">Samari Collier</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Offensive Player of the Week and kicker&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/bios/burger_nestus_ljhj">Nestus Burger</a>&nbsp;was named the national Special Teams Player of the Week on Wednesday.Collier won his second NJCAA National Offensive Player of the Week award after the sophomore from DeSoto, Texas threw for a career high 300 yards and two touchdowns in the final 6:19 to force overtime against the Tritons. Collier also won the award on November 8, 2023Burger also won his second national Special Teams Award. The kicker from Perth Australia also won on October 11, 2023.On Saturday, the Blue Dragons trailed Iowa Central 30-16 in the fourth quarter.Collier was 23 of 40 passing for 300 yards and three touchdowns against the Tritons. He also added 89 rushing yards on 14 carries.Collier threw two touchdown passes in the final 4:12 of the fourth quarter to force overtime.In overtime, Burger kicked a walk-off 36-yard field goal to complete a 14-point comeback over Iowa Central.Burger was 2 for 2 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra-points in the Blue Dragon victory. He also had four touchbacks on 6 kickoffs vs. the Tritons.

🏈 Blue Dragons double up on NJCAA Player of the Week honors

Nolan Cornell Smith, 75, passed away Sunday, September 15, 2024 at Hospice House in Hutchinson. He was born on July 3, 1949 in Hutchinson to Robert Clark and Delores Caroline (Hoffman) Smith.

Nolan served in The United States Army and was a Vietnam veteran. He then attended and graduated from Pratt Community College with his Associates in Electrical Science. Upon graduation he enlisted in The United States Navy. He was a member of Turon Community Church and lifetime member of the VFW.

He is survived by his brothers, Rodney (Sharen) Smith of Katy, Texas and Maurice Smith of Topeka, Kansas; and nieces and nephews, Suzanne Smith, Eric Smith, Lisa Reisz, Sheldon Smith, Todd Smith, Brian Smith, Jeffrey Smith, Daniel Smith, Steven Smith, Nathan Smith, Heidi Smith Herrera, Jesse Smith and Jeremiah Smith.

Nolan is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Manuel Smith and Randall Smith; and sisters in-law, Joan Smith and Sheila Smith.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life with military honors will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, September 27, 2024 at Turon Community Church, Turon with Pastor Steve Gill presiding. Inurnment will follow at Turon Cemetery, Turon.

Memorials may be made to Turon Senior Center in care of Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726593151776.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nolan Cornell Smith, 75, passed away Sunday, September 15, 2024 at Hospice House in Hutchinson. He was born on July 3, 1949 in Hutchinson to Robert Clark and Delores Caroline (Hoffman) Smith.Nolan served in The United States Army and was a Vietnam veteran. He then attended and graduated from Pratt Community College with his Associates in Electrical Science. Upon graduation he enlisted in The United States Navy. He was a member of Turon Community Church and lifetime member of the VFW.He is survived by his brothers, Rodney (Sharen) Smith of Katy, Texas and Maurice Smith of Topeka, Kansas; and nieces and nephews, Suzanne Smith, Eric Smith, Lisa Reisz, Sheldon Smith, Todd Smith, Brian Smith, Jeffrey Smith, Daniel Smith, Steven Smith, Nathan Smith, Heidi Smith Herrera, Jesse Smith and Jeremiah Smith.Nolan is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Manuel Smith and Randall Smith; and sisters in-law, Joan Smith and Sheila Smith.Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life with military honors will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, September 27, 2024 at Turon Community Church, Turon with Pastor Steve Gill presiding. Inurnment will follow at Turon Cemetery, Turon.Memorials may be made to Turon Senior Center in care of Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt.&nbsp;

Nolan Cornell Smith |1949-2024|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Steve Ford, the youngest son of former President Gerald Ford, is the latest to speak as part of the Dillon Lecture Series on Tuesday at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

Ford talked about several different topics at his press conference before the lecture itself, including what it was like spending two-plus years in the White House, his acting career, life as a rancher, and dealing with alcoholism.&nbsp;

The 18-year-old at the time, who had just graduated from high school and was getting ready to head to college, was now the son of the President of the United States after Richard Nixon resigned from office in August 1974.&nbsp;

"My dad was a congressman for most of my childhood," Ford said. "It wasn't until he became Vice President that things changed. All of a sudden, it got elevated to a new level in 1973. He was only Vice President for about 10 months; we didn't have secret service during that period. It wasn't until he became President in August of 1974 that we got secret service, and then it changed. Luckily, my 10 secret service guys were all in their late 20s, so they kind of remembered what it was like being an 18-year-old kid."&nbsp;

Ford said life changed, and he became a little more defensive once his dad took over as President.

"This would be something I didn't think was a good thing, but you almost had to do it," Ford said. "Because all of a sudden now you had all these people wanting something from you that you didn't know, so you had people approaching you. Thank God we were old enough that we had established friendships, so we weren't looking to go out and add a whole bunch of new friends. Overall, to be blessed in that way, to be able to live in the nation's home, the White House, that was just a real joy and a real treat. It's pretty government housing. It's temporary because we were only there for two-and-a-half years. To live in the White House, to be there; everything on the wall is historical from Jefferson, Washington, and Lincoln; you're living in a museum basically."

Although Ford didn't get to spend a lot of time in the White House while his dad was in office, he did have one favorite spot.

"The third floor of the White House is where the kids live, the second floor is where mom and dad lived, and then the first floor is where the Red Room, the Green Room, the East Room, all the diplomatic areas. I think the favorite place for me was up on the third floor; they have an area called the Solarium; it's kind of a sunroom; it was probably the most relaxed."

He then went on to talk about one of the fun memories he had with a friend in the White House.

"I probably shouldn't tell this story," Ford said while laughing. "One of the first nights we moved to the White House, remember I'm an 18-year-old kid, I called one of my best friends, his name was Kevin, and told him he had to come see this place. He comes over, we're up on the third floor, and back in 1974, stereo equipment was huge. We decided it'd be a good idea to take my stereo up to the roof of the White House. You couldn't do that today because of terrorism. We get it up there, and if I remember right, we were playing Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven.' It was like Dumb and Dumber on the roof of the White House."

Ford was asked how the son of the President of the United States ended up becoming a rancher.

"I was trying to figure out how I was going to move into the freshman dorm at Duke University with 10 secret service guys with machine guns and radios, and it didn't really have a good feel to it. I walked into dad's office, which was the Oval Office, and said I'm just not ready to go to college yet; I'd like to take a year off. He asked me, 'What are you thinking of doing?' and I told him I had always dreamed about going out west and becoming a cowboy. He was kind of shocked, but mom and dad were great parents because they allowed us kids to kind of go find our hearts. I promised I'd go back to school next year."

Ford ended up falling in love with living on a ranch and becoming a cowboy in the western United States.

"I took my 10 secret service agents, and we headed west to Utah and Montana," Ford said. "I started working on ranches, cowboying, and rodeoing and fell in love with it. That was what I studied in college: animal science, production, nutrition, and beef cattle. I thought I was going to run a ranch, and instead I spent 30-plus years working as an actor."

The acting career kind of happened by accident for Ford.

"I was going to school, and I was rodeoing at the time, and a friend of mine was producing a movie down in Mexico," Ford said. "It was a western, and he needed some people that could fall off horses to do some stunts. It was summer time, so I wasn't taking any classes, and he said he'd pay me to come down and to fall off a horse, so I ended up going to Mexico and spending the summer working. That was a little bit about my introduction into the TV and film business, so yeah, a horse got me my first acting job."

Ford appeared in 16 different movies while also appearing in 23 different TV shows.&nbsp;

Like his mother, former First Lady Betty, Steve also battled alcoholism in his younger life.

"I was in my 30s when I raised my hand and said, 'My name is Steve, and I'm an alcoholic'," Ford said. "The foundation for that was probably first laid back when I was in high school. My disease doesn't care who you are; whether you're an ex-President's son or an actor, it doesn't care. I speak in a lot of halfway houses; I go into prisons and colleges and just try to give back. You would think Betty Ford's son should know better, because my mother 10 years before me raised her hand. That was a life-changing thing for the addiction community, because she somewhat took some of the shame off of this disease."

The last thing Ford touched on in his press conference was how the United States is today, and whether or not the country will get back to its ways of the past.

"I am still optimistic," Ford said. "The pendulum does seem to swing both ways, and you get through these periods, but I'm concerned. I'm concerned people don't reach across the aisle and try to find a compromise and keep things moving in a reasonable fashion. At times I'm concerned about the honesty of our politicians today. They'll say anything to get a vote and that's both sides, Republicans or Democrats. They say things they know they can never get through Congress. They're campaigning for a vote, but not to actually fix the problem. My dad loved being a public servant, and it has to be in your blood."

The next Dillon Lecture Series presenter is Kansas State men's basketball coach Jerome Tang. He will speak Oct. 8.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726586756289.jpeg" alt="Steve Ford, the son of former President Gerald Ford, spoke at Hutchinson Community College on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, as part of the Dillon Lecture Series. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Steve Ford, the son of former President Gerald Ford, spoke at Hutchinson Community College on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, as part of the Dillon Lecture Series. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Steve Ford, the youngest son of former President Gerald Ford, is the latest to speak as part of the Dillon Lecture Series on Tuesday at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.Ford talked about several different topics at his press conference before the lecture itself, including what it was like spending two-plus years in the White House, his acting career, life as a rancher, and dealing with alcoholism.&nbsp;The 18-year-old at the time, who had just graduated from high school and was getting ready to head to college, was now the son of the President of the United States after Richard Nixon resigned from office in August 1974.&nbsp;"My dad was a congressman for most of my childhood," Ford said. "It wasn't until he became Vice President that things changed. All of a sudden, it got elevated to a new level in 1973. He was only Vice President for about 10 months; we didn't have secret service during that period. It wasn't until he became President in August of 1974 that we got secret service, and then it changed. Luckily, my 10 secret service guys were all in their late 20s, so they kind of remembered what it was like being an 18-year-old kid."&nbsp;Ford said life changed, and he became a little more defensive once his dad took over as President."This would be something I didn't think was a good thing, but you almost had to do it," Ford said. "Because all of a sudden now you had all these people wanting something from you that you didn't know, so you had people approaching you. Thank God we were old enough that we had established friendships, so we weren't looking to go out and add a whole bunch of new friends. Overall, to be blessed in that way, to be able to live in the nation's home, the White House, that was just a real joy and a real treat. It's pretty government housing. It's temporary because we were only there for two-and-a-half years. To live in the White House, to be there; everything on the wall is historical from Jefferson, Washington, and Lincoln; you're living in a museum basically."Although Ford didn't get to spend a lot of time in the White House while his dad was in office, he did have one favorite spot."The third floor of the White House is where the kids live, the second floor is where mom and dad lived, and then the first floor is where the Red Room, the Green Room, the East Room, all the diplomatic areas. I think the favorite place for me was up on the third floor; they have an area called the Solarium; it's kind of a sunroom; it was probably the most relaxed."He then went on to talk about one of the fun memories he had with a friend in the White House."I probably shouldn't tell this story," Ford said while laughing. "One of the first nights we moved to the White House, remember I'm an 18-year-old kid, I called one of my best friends, his name was Kevin, and told him he had to come see this place. He comes over, we're up on the third floor, and back in 1974, stereo equipment was huge. We decided it'd be a good idea to take my stereo up to the roof of the White House. You couldn't do that today because of terrorism. We get it up there, and if I remember right, we were playing Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven.' It was like Dumb and Dumber on the roof of the White House."Ford was asked how the son of the President of the United States ended up becoming a rancher."I was trying to figure out how I was going to move into the freshman dorm at Duke University with 10 secret service guys with machine guns and radios, and it didn't really have a good feel to it. I walked into dad's office, which was the Oval Office, and said I'm just not ready to go to college yet; I'd like to take a year off. He asked me, 'What are you thinking of doing?' and I told him I had always dreamed about going out west and becoming a cowboy. He was kind of shocked, but mom and dad were great parents because they allowed us kids to kind of go find our hearts. I promised I'd go back to school next year."Ford ended up falling in love with living on a ranch and becoming a cowboy in the western United States."I took my 10 secret service agents, and we headed west to Utah and Montana," Ford said. "I started working on ranches, cowboying, and rodeoing and fell in love with it. That was what I studied in college: animal science, production, nutrition, and beef cattle. I thought I was going to run a ranch, and instead I spent 30-plus years working as an actor."The acting career kind of happened by accident for Ford."I was going to school, and I was rodeoing at the time, and a friend of mine was producing a movie down in Mexico," Ford said. "It was a western, and he needed some people that could fall off horses to do some stunts. It was summer time, so I wasn't taking any classes, and he said he'd pay me to come down and to fall off a horse, so I ended up going to Mexico and spending the summer working. That was a little bit about my introduction into the TV and film business, so yeah, a horse got me my first acting job."Ford appeared in 16 different movies while also appearing in 23 different TV shows.&nbsp;Like his mother, former First Lady Betty, Steve also battled alcoholism in his younger life."I was in my 30s when I raised my hand and said, 'My name is Steve, and I'm an alcoholic'," Ford said. "The foundation for that was probably first laid back when I was in high school. My disease doesn't care who you are; whether you're an ex-President's son or an actor, it doesn't care. I speak in a lot of halfway houses; I go into prisons and colleges and just try to give back. You would think Betty Ford's son should know better, because my mother 10 years before me raised her hand. That was a life-changing thing for the addiction community, because she somewhat took some of the shame off of this disease."The last thing Ford touched on in his press conference was how the United States is today, and whether or not the country will get back to its ways of the past."I am still optimistic," Ford said. "The pendulum does seem to swing both ways, and you get through these periods, but I'm concerned. I'm concerned people don't reach across the aisle and try to find a compromise and keep things moving in a reasonable fashion. At times I'm concerned about the honesty of our politicians today. They'll say anything to get a vote and that's both sides, Republicans or Democrats. They say things they know they can never get through Congress. They're campaigning for a vote, but not to actually fix the problem. My dad loved being a public servant, and it has to be in your blood."The next Dillon Lecture Series presenter is Kansas State men's basketball coach Jerome Tang. He will speak Oct. 8.

Steve Ford delivers powerful message as part of Dillon Lecture Series

PUEBLO, Colo. —&nbsp; Sophomore Charlie Box tied the Hutchinson Community College men’s golf individual record for 54 holes and cruised to his second collegiate victory on Tuesday afternoon.

Box fired a 5-under-par 67 on Tuesday to win the Samuel Proal Classic at Walking Stick Country Club.

The No. 5-ranked Blue Dragons had three golfers finish in the Top 10 to finish second to tournament host Colorado State University-Pueblo by one stroke.

Box had rounds of 67, 69 and 67 to finish the 54-hole tournament at 13-under 203. Box tied the Blue Dragon individual record for a 54-hole score on a Par-72 course, matching the 2020 mark of Ben Partridge, who posted his 13-under 203 at The Rawls Course in Lubbock, Texas at the 2020 NJCAA National Preview.

Box started his round on Tuesday with five birdies in the first six holes. Over the three rounds on holes one through six, Box played those holes in 10-under par with 12 total birdies. 

Box’s 67 on Tuesday matched his collegiate career low of 67 set in Round 1 on Monday.

Box won the individual title by five strokes over Garden City’s Jack Dyer. Box and Dyer started Tuesday tied for the individual lead at 8-under park. Dyer shot a 72 on Tuesday.

The Blue Dragons tied the best-ever 54-hole team score they shot at the Samuel Proal Classic, matching the 2020 mark at 17-under 847. The Dragons entered the day three strokes off the lead and shot a 281 on Tuesday. CSU-Pueblo shot 283 in the final round.

Sophomore David Razinskas finished tied for third, shooting 2-under-par 70 on Tuesday. Razinskas had an eagle on the Par-5 15th hole to close at 5-under 211.

Freshman Jaydon Carruthers also had an eagle on the par-5 fifth hole to help post a round of 1-under 71. Carruthers tied for ninth at 1-under 215.

Jack Northgraves tied for 13th at 218 after a one-over 73 on Tuesday.

Sophomore Louis Ross tied for 22nd at 222. Ross closed with a 75 on Tuesday.

The Blue Dragons’ individual players  tied for 20th and 29th in the season-opening tournament for the fall 2024 season. Tyler Walker shot a final-round 76 on Tuesday and placed 20th with a 222. Cal Schultz carded an 84 on Tuesday and was 29th at 234.

Hutchinson plays at the Iowa Western Invitational on Monday and Tuesday at Bent Tree Golf Club in Council Bluffs, IA.

5. Lubbock Christian – 286-298-297 – 881

T9. Jaydon Carruthers – 71-73-71 – 215

T13. Jack Northgraves – 73-72-73 – 218

T20. Tyler Walker (I) – 74-72-76 – 222

T25. Cal Schultz (I) – 78-72-84 – 234

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726651792402.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationPUEBLO, Colo. —&nbsp; Sophomore Charlie Box tied the Hutchinson Community College men’s golf individual record for 54 holes and cruised to his second collegiate victory on Tuesday afternoon.Box fired a 5-under-par 67 on Tuesday to win the Samuel Proal Classic at Walking Stick Country Club.The No. 5-ranked Blue Dragons had three golfers finish in the Top 10 to finish second to tournament host Colorado State University-Pueblo by one stroke.Box had rounds of 67, 69 and 67 to finish the 54-hole tournament at 13-under 203. Box tied the Blue Dragon individual record for a 54-hole score on a Par-72 course, matching the 2020 mark of Ben Partridge, who posted his 13-under 203 at The Rawls Course in Lubbock, Texas at the 2020 NJCAA National Preview.Box started his round on Tuesday with five birdies in the first six holes. Over the three rounds on holes one through six, Box played those holes in 10-under par with 12 total birdies. Box’s 67 on Tuesday matched his collegiate career low of 67 set in Round 1 on Monday.Box won the individual title by five strokes over Garden City’s Jack Dyer. Box and Dyer started Tuesday tied for the individual lead at 8-under park. Dyer shot a 72 on Tuesday.The Blue Dragons tied the best-ever 54-hole team score they shot at the Samuel Proal Classic, matching the 2020 mark at 17-under 847. The Dragons entered the day three strokes off the lead and shot a 281 on Tuesday. CSU-Pueblo shot 283 in the final round.Sophomore David Razinskas finished tied for third, shooting 2-under-par 70 on Tuesday. Razinskas had an eagle on the Par-5 15th hole to close at 5-under 211.Freshman Jaydon Carruthers also had an eagle on the par-5 fifth hole to help post a round of 1-under 71. Carruthers tied for ninth at 1-under 215.Jack Northgraves tied for 13th at 218 after a one-over 73 on Tuesday.Sophomore Louis Ross tied for 22nd at 222. Ross closed with a 75 on Tuesday.The Blue Dragons’ individual players tied for 20th and 29th in the season-opening tournament for the fall 2024 season. Tyler Walker shot a final-round 76 on Tuesday and placed 20th with a 222. Cal Schultz carded an 84 on Tuesday and was 29th at 234.Hutchinson plays at the Iowa Western Invitational on Monday and Tuesday at Bent Tree Golf Club in Council Bluffs, IA.SAMUEL PROAL CLASSIC FINAL TEAM SCORES1. CSU-Pueblo – 284-279-283 – 8462. Hutchinson – 282-284-281 – 8473. Dodge City – 283-289-298 – 8704. Garden City – 287-291-298 – 8765. Lubbock Christian – 286-298-297 – 8816. Otero – 293-300-297 – 917BLUE DRAGON SCORES1. Charlie Box – 67-69-67 – 2033. David Razinskas – 71-70-70 – 211T9. Jaydon Carruthers – 71-73-71 – 215T13. Jack Northgraves – 73-72-73 – 218T20. Louis Ross – 74-73-75 – 222T20. Tyler Walker (I) – 74-72-76 – 222T25. Cal Schultz (I) – 78-72-84 – 234

⛳ Box ties HutchCC record; wins in Pueblo, Colorado Tuesday

Both quarterback Samari Collier and kicker Nestus Burger played significant roles in the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team’s come-from-behind 33-30 overtime win over No. 12 Iowa Central on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

Both Collier and Burger earned KJCCC Weekly Player of the Week honors on Tuesday.

Collier was named the league’s Offensive Player of the Week after a career-best game against the Tritons. Burger kicked the game-winning field-goal in overtime to earn KJCCC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.

Collier is the third-straight Blue Dragon to won KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week honors. Running back Waymond Jordan Jr. was the league’s offensive winner in Weeks 1 and 2.

The sophomore quarterback from DeSoto, Texas, threw for his first career 300-yard game and led the No. 1 Blue Dragons back from 14 points down with 6:19 remaining in the fourth quarter in a 33-30 overtime victory over No. 12 Iowa Central.

Collier was 23 of 40 passing for 300 yards and three touchdowns vs. the Tritons. He also added 89 rushing yards on 14 carries. Collier threw two touchdown passes in the final 4:12 of the fourth quarter to force overtime.

This is the third time Collier was won KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week honors. He won the award twice in his freshman season in 2023.

Burger, a sophomore from Perth, Australia, kicked a walk-off 36-yard field goal in overtime to cap a 14-point fourth-quarter comeback for No. 1-ranked Hutchinson a 33-30 OT win over No. 12 Iowa Central. Burger was 2 for 2 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra-points in the Blue Dragon victory from 14 points down with 6:19 to play in the fourth quarter. He also had four touchbacks on 6 kickoffs vs. the Tritons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724431961058.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationBoth quarterback Samari Collier and kicker Nestus Burger played significant roles in the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team’s come-from-behind 33-30 overtime win over No. 12 Iowa Central on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.Both Collier and Burger earned KJCCC Weekly Player of the Week honors on Tuesday.Collier was named the league’s Offensive Player of the Week after a career-best game against the Tritons. Burger kicked the game-winning field-goal in overtime to earn KJCCC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.Collier is the third-straight Blue Dragon to won KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week honors. Running back Waymond Jordan Jr. was the league’s offensive winner in Weeks 1 and 2.The sophomore quarterback from DeSoto, Texas, threw for his first career 300-yard game and led the No. 1 Blue Dragons back from 14 points down with 6:19 remaining in the fourth quarter in a 33-30 overtime victory over No. 12 Iowa Central.Collier was 23 of 40 passing for 300 yards and three touchdowns vs. the Tritons. He also added 89 rushing yards on 14 carries. Collier threw two touchdown passes in the final 4:12 of the fourth quarter to force overtime.This is the third time Collier was won KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week honors. He won the award twice in his freshman season in 2023.Burger, a sophomore from Perth, Australia, kicked a walk-off 36-yard field goal in overtime to cap a 14-point fourth-quarter comeback for No. 1-ranked Hutchinson a 33-30 OT win over No. 12 Iowa Central. Burger was 2 for 2 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra-points in the Blue Dragon victory from 14 points down with 6:19 to play in the fourth quarter. He also had four touchbacks on 6 kickoffs vs. the Tritons.BLUE DRAGON KJCCC PLAYERS OF THE WEEKWeek 1 – Offense: Waymond Jordan Jr.Week 2 – Offense: Waymond Jordan Jr.Week 3 – Offense: Samari CollierWeek 3 – Special Teams: Nestus Burger

🏈 Collier, Burger named Player of the Week

Undefeated in four home games in 2024, the No. 17-ranked Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer team faces a key home KJCCC matchup on Wednesday evening.

The Blue Dragons (4-1-2 overall, 3-1-2 KJCCC) will play host to No. 9 Kansas City (6-0-1, 4-0-1 KJCCC) at 6 p.m. at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.

Hutchinson is currently in third place in the KJCCC Division I standings with 10 team points (KJCCC earn three points for a win and one point for a tie). The Blue Dragons are tied for third place with Dodge City. Kansas City is second in the KJCCC with 13 points, just three points behind first-place Butler.

The last time out, the Blue Dragons played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday at Barton. Sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards scored the game-tying goal with 17 minutes to play in regulation time.

The only blemish on Kansas City’s record to this point in a 1-1 home tie with Butler. The Blue Devils have back-to-back 3-0 victories over Coffeyville and Barton.

The Blue Dragons are 6-1-2 all-time against Kansas City.

Hutchinson has outscored its opponents 19-3 in its four home games, which include back-to-back shutouts over Dodge City and Coffeyville.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726651172875.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationUndefeated in four home games in 2024, the No. 17-ranked Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer team faces a key home KJCCC matchup on Wednesday evening.The Blue Dragons (4-1-2 overall, 3-1-2 KJCCC) will play host to No. 9 Kansas City (6-0-1, 4-0-1 KJCCC) at 6 p.m. at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.Hutchinson is currently in third place in the KJCCC Division I standings with 10 team points (KJCCC earn three points for a win and one point for a tie). The Blue Dragons are tied for third place with Dodge City. Kansas City is second in the KJCCC with 13 points, just three points behind first-place Butler.The last time out, the Blue Dragons played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday at Barton. Sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards scored the game-tying goal with 17 minutes to play in regulation time.The only blemish on Kansas City’s record to this point in a 1-1 home tie with Butler. The Blue Devils have back-to-back 3-0 victories over Coffeyville and Barton.The Blue Dragons are 6-1-2 all-time against Kansas City.Hutchinson has outscored its opponents 19-3 in its four home games, which include back-to-back shutouts over Dodge City and Coffeyville.

⚽ Top 20 matchup in Hutch Wednesday

Now into the fifth week of the 2024 NJCAA Volleyball season, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team finally gets to play in front of the home fans on Wednesday at the Sports Arena.

The Blue Dragons play host to the Cloud County Thunderbirds at 6 p.m. in the latest home opener Hutchinson volleyball history. The game will be a “Blue-Out” at the Sports Arena.

The Blue Dragons opened the season with 15-straight road games, including three tournaments in Council Bluffs, Iowa, McCook, Nebraska and Odessa, Texas. The Dragons went 8-7 to open the season, which included a five-set victory over then-No. 9 Indian Hills in McCook.

Hutchinson is 1-2 in Jayhawk Conference play with losses at Butler (three sets) and Garden City (five sets) and a sweep at Seward County.

Wednesday night will be part of a big week at home for the Blue Dragons.

Hutchinson on Friday and Saturday plays host to the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic. Games are at 3, 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m., Noon and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Hutchinson will play McCook at 3 p.m. on and Iowa Western at 7 p.m. on Friday. The Blue Dragons play Missouri State-West Plains at Noon and Labette at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Butler is the sixth team to complete the field.

Then on Monday, the Blue Dragons play host to Dodge City at 6 p.m. at the Sports Arena.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726650965644.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationNow into the fifth week of the 2024 NJCAA Volleyball season, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team finally gets to play in front of the home fans on Wednesday at the Sports Arena.The Blue Dragons play host to the Cloud County Thunderbirds at 6 p.m. in the latest home opener Hutchinson volleyball history. The game will be a “Blue-Out” at the Sports Arena.The Blue Dragons opened the season with 15-straight road games, including three tournaments in Council Bluffs, Iowa, McCook, Nebraska and Odessa, Texas. The Dragons went 8-7 to open the season, which included a five-set victory over then-No. 9 Indian Hills in McCook.Hutchinson is 1-2 in Jayhawk Conference play with losses at Butler (three sets) and Garden City (five sets) and a sweep at Seward County.Wednesday night will be part of a big week at home for the Blue Dragons.Hutchinson on Friday and Saturday plays host to the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic. Games are at 3, 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m., Noon and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Hutchinson will play McCook at 3 p.m. on and Iowa Western at 7 p.m. on Friday. The Blue Dragons play Missouri State-West Plains at Noon and Labette at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Butler is the sixth team to complete the field.Then on Monday, the Blue Dragons play host to Dodge City at 6 p.m. at the Sports Arena.

🏐 Dragons at home Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a Tuesday afternoon message from Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson Police and HutchCC will be doing an exercise Wednesday morning, and there will be a police presence on campus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCCHUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a Tuesday afternoon message from Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson Police and HutchCC will be doing an exercise Wednesday morning, and there will be a police presence on campus.

Hutch PD on HutchCC campus Wednesday

Harold R. Tuxhorn Sr., 96, died September 15, 2024, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born August 31, 1928, in Imperial, NE, to Edward Herman and Emma Augusta (Belau) Tuxhorn.

Harold graduated from Byers High School, Colorado, in 1947. He later attended Mesa College. Harold worked for Excel Energy in Colorado as a gas engineer, helping plot pipeline through the mountains. He enjoyed flipping houses, fishing, hunting, and was an avid reader of his Bible. Harold was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Grand Junction, CO.&nbsp;

On November 1, 1947, he married Iris Jean Robbins, in Byers, CO. They shared over 72 years of marriage prior to her death on April 23, 2020.

Harold is survived by: children; Linda (John) Chansler, Edward (Pam) Tuxhorn, both of Hutchinson, Harold (Charlotte) Tuxhorn Jr. of Leadville, CO, and Susan (Clay) Hauser) of Grand Junction, CO; brothers Ervin Tuxhorn of Byers, CO, and Charles Tuxhorn of Virginia; 11 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; many great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; wife, Iris; daughter Yvonne Tuxhorn; son, Steve Tuxhorn; and two great grandchildren.

Graveside service will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 21, 2024, in the Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Christian Worship Hour, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726580663895.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Harold R. Tuxhorn Sr., 96, died September 15, 2024, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born August 31, 1928, in Imperial, NE, to Edward Herman and Emma Augusta (Belau) Tuxhorn.Harold graduated from Byers High School, Colorado, in 1947. He later attended Mesa College. Harold worked for Excel Energy in Colorado as a gas engineer, helping plot pipeline through the mountains. He enjoyed flipping houses, fishing, hunting, and was an avid reader of his Bible. Harold was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Grand Junction, CO.&nbsp;On November 1, 1947, he married Iris Jean Robbins, in Byers, CO. They shared over 72 years of marriage prior to her death on April 23, 2020.Harold is survived by: children; Linda (John) Chansler, Edward (Pam) Tuxhorn, both of Hutchinson, Harold (Charlotte) Tuxhorn Jr. of Leadville, CO, and Susan (Clay) Hauser) of Grand Junction, CO; brothers Ervin Tuxhorn of Byers, CO, and Charles Tuxhorn of Virginia; 11 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; many great-great grandchildren.He was preceded in death by: his parents; wife, Iris; daughter Yvonne Tuxhorn; son, Steve Tuxhorn; and two great grandchildren.Graveside service will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 21, 2024, in the Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Christian Worship Hour, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Harold R. Tuxhorn Sr. |1928-2024|

PUEBLO, Colo. — Hutchinson Community College’s Charlie Box started his first fall tournament of the season off with a bogey on the very first hole on Monday.

Thirteen birdies later, the Blue Dragon sophomore found himself tied for the individual lead at the CSU-Pueblo Samuel Proal Classic at Walking Stick Golf Club.

Box leads four Blue Dragon golfers sitting in the Top 12 after 36 of the 54-hole tournament and has Hutchinson firmly in second place only three strokes off the team lead in its 2024 Fall Season opener.

The Blue Dragons posted team rounds of 6-under 282 and 4-under 284 to sit in second place after play on Monday with a 10-under 566. Hutchinson trailed tournament host CSU-Pueblo by three strokes. CSU-Pueblo had rounds of 284 and 279 for a 36-hole total of 13-under 563. Dodge City is third after play on Monday at 572 (283-289). Garden City is fourth at 578 (287-291).

The final round is Tuesday morning with a 10:30 a.m. (CT) shotgun start.

After Box opened the tournament with a bogey 5 on the first hold, the Blue Dragon sophomore reeled off seen birdies in the next 15 holes. Box had seven total birdies, two bogeys and nine pars in an opening round 67, a career-low round for a Par-72 course.

Box followed that round with six birdies and three bogeys and he started the round off with four birdies in the first five holes. Box finished at 3-under 69. He is tied with Garden City’s Jack Dyer, who shot back-to-back 68s on Monday.

Sophomore David Razinskas combined for nine birdies and four bogeys and is tied for 10th after play on Monday at 3-under 141. Razinskas opened with a 71 and followed that up with a 70.

Freshman Jaydon Carruthers is tied for 10th at even-par 144. Carruthers opened with a 1-under 71 and finished the second round with a 1-over 73.

Freshman Jack Northgraves is tied for 12th  1-over 145. Northgraves started off with a 73 and posted a 72 in the afternoon round.

Sophomore Louis Ross had rounds of 74 and 73 on Monday and is tied for 22nd at 3-over 147.

Sophomore Tyler Walker and freshman Cal Schultz were playing as individuals on Monday. Walker is 17th  at 2-over 146. Walker had rounds of 74 and 72. Schultz had a nine rebounds in the afternoon round. Schultz carded a 6-over 78 to start, but posted an even-par 72 in the afternoon round. He is tied for 25th at 150.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726571611164.jpeg" alt="Charlie Box-Photo Courtesy HutchCC" />
 <figcaption>Charlie Box-Photo Courtesy HutchCC</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationPUEBLO, Colo. — Hutchinson Community College’s Charlie Box started his first fall tournament of the season off with a bogey on the very first hole on Monday.Thirteen birdies later, the Blue Dragon sophomore found himself tied for the individual lead at the CSU-Pueblo Samuel Proal Classic at Walking Stick Golf Club.Box leads four Blue Dragon golfers sitting in the Top 12 after 36 of the 54-hole tournament and has Hutchinson firmly in second place only three strokes off the team lead in its 2024 Fall Season opener.The Blue Dragons posted team rounds of 6-under 282 and 4-under 284 to sit in second place after play on Monday with a 10-under 566. Hutchinson trailed tournament host CSU-Pueblo by three strokes. CSU-Pueblo had rounds of 284 and 279 for a 36-hole total of 13-under 563. Dodge City is third after play on Monday at 572 (283-289). Garden City is fourth at 578 (287-291).The final round is Tuesday morning with a 10:30 a.m. (CT) shotgun start.After Box opened the tournament with a bogey 5 on the first hold, the Blue Dragon sophomore reeled off seen birdies in the next 15 holes. Box had seven total birdies, two bogeys and nine pars in an opening round 67, a career-low round for a Par-72 course.Box followed that round with six birdies and three bogeys and he started the round off with four birdies in the first five holes. Box finished at 3-under 69. He is tied with Garden City’s Jack Dyer, who shot back-to-back 68s on Monday.Sophomore David Razinskas combined for nine birdies and four bogeys and is tied for 10th after play on Monday at 3-under 141. Razinskas opened with a 71 and followed that up with a 70.Freshman Jaydon Carruthers is tied for 10th at even-par 144. Carruthers opened with a 1-under 71 and finished the second round with a 1-over 73.Freshman Jack Northgraves is tied for 12th 1-over 145. Northgraves started off with a 73 and posted a 72 in the afternoon round.Sophomore Louis Ross had rounds of 74 and 73 on Monday and is tied for 22nd at 3-over 147.Sophomore Tyler Walker and freshman Cal Schultz were playing as individuals on Monday. Walker is 17th at 2-over 146. Walker had rounds of 74 and 72. Schultz had a nine rebounds in the afternoon round. Schultz carded a 6-over 78 to start, but posted an even-par 72 in the afternoon round. He is tied for 25th at 150.Team Scores1. CSU-Pueblo – 563 (284-279)2. Hutchinson – 566 (282-284)3. Dodge City – 572 (283-289)4. Garden City – 578 (287-291)5. Lubbock Christian – 584 (286-298)6. Otero – 593 (293-300)

⛳ Box tied for lead in first fall tournament

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Enjoy an evening in the garden at Hutchinson Community College with live music from 50 Years Late. 

Thursday, Sept. 19, you can tour the Reno County Extension Master Gardener Demonstration Garden located on the HutchCC Campus and learn about plants that grow well in our area. Extension Master Gardener volunteers will be on hand beginning at 5:30 p.m. to answer your gardening questions. Music will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the pavilion by the garden. This event is free and open to the public. 

You are welcome to pack a picnic and enjoy the music as you dine. 

Please bring a lawn chair as limited seating will be available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685973151336.png" alt="Master Gardener Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Master Gardener Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Enjoy an evening in the garden at Hutchinson Community College with live music from 50 Years Late. Thursday, Sept. 19, you can tour the Reno County Extension Master Gardener Demonstration Garden located on the HutchCC Campus and learn about plants that grow well in our area. Extension Master Gardener volunteers will be on hand beginning at 5:30 p.m. to answer your gardening questions. Music will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the pavilion by the garden. This event is free and open to the public. You are welcome to pack a picnic and enjoy the music as you dine. Please bring a lawn chair as limited seating will be available.

Music in the Garden event Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bank of the Plains is pleased to announce Tina Call, who currently serves as the Chief Risk Officer, has been promoted to the role of President effective January 1, 2025. Call will begin to transition into her new role for the remainder of 2024, while continuing to build the Risk Management Program and Department. Current President and CEO, Gene Dikeman, will continue as CEO of Bank of the Plains following Call’s transition into the President position in 2025.

"I am excited for the opportunities Tina brings to the bank, employees and shareholders. Our strategic plan is to continue to grow in a safe, sound, and efficient way. This promotion paves the way for those strategies to happen," said Gene Dikeman, CEO.

Call, having joined Bank of the Plains April of 2024, has an extensive background in the financial industry, including eight years of FDIC bank examination experience and twenty-six years of community banking experience. She has served on many boards and committees throughout her career, including the Kansas Bankers Association&nbsp;Employee Benefits Committee, Seward County Community College Board of Trustees, Southwest Medical Center Board of Trustees, United Way Board, and was selected as the SBA’s Women in Business Champion of the Year for the Wichita District, Wichita Business Journal’s Women Who Lead in Major Companies 2020, and Women Who Lead in Diversity, Equity &amp; Inclusion 2021.

“Bank of the Plains is a strong and reputable financial institution with a highly experienced team of directors, officers, and employees, and a long history of serving and contributing to their communities. I am honored with the opportunity to lead and to continue with the strategic growth path of both the bank and our valued team,” said Call.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726524400432.jpeg" alt="Tina Call-Bank of the Plains" />
 <figcaption>Tina Call-Bank of the Plains</figcaption>
 </figure>Bank of the PlainsHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bank of the Plains is pleased to announce Tina Call, who currently serves as the Chief Risk Officer, has been promoted to the role of President effective January 1, 2025. Call will begin to transition into her new role for the remainder of 2024, while continuing to build the Risk Management Program and Department. Current President and CEO, Gene Dikeman, will continue as CEO of Bank of the Plains following Call’s transition into the President position in 2025."I am excited for the opportunities Tina brings to the bank, employees and shareholders. Our strategic plan is to continue to grow in a safe, sound, and efficient way. This promotion paves the way for those strategies to happen," said Gene Dikeman, CEO.Call, having joined Bank of the Plains April of 2024, has an extensive background in the financial industry, including eight years of FDIC bank examination experience and twenty-six years of community banking experience. She has served on many boards and committees throughout her career, including the Kansas Bankers Association&nbsp;Employee Benefits Committee, Seward County Community College Board of Trustees, Southwest Medical Center Board of Trustees, United Way Board, and was selected as the SBA’s Women in Business Champion of the Year for the Wichita District, Wichita Business Journal’s Women Who Lead in Major Companies 2020, and Women Who Lead in Diversity, Equity &amp; Inclusion 2021.“Bank of the Plains is a strong and reputable financial institution with a highly experienced team of directors, officers, and employees, and a long history of serving and contributing to their communities. I am honored with the opportunity to lead and to continue with the strategic growth path of both the bank and our valued team,” said Call.

Call to become Bank of the Plains President

<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/wsoc/rankings/DI/index">2024 NJCAA DI WOMEN'S SOCCER POLL | WEEK THREE - 9-16-24</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College women's soccer team has moved up one spot to No. 17 in the latest poll released by the NJCAA on Monday.

The Blue Dragons are currently 4-1-2 overall, 3-1-2 in Jayhawk Conference play.

HutchCC went 1-0-1 last week with a 3-0 win over Coffeyville on Wednesday, and a 1-1 tie at Barton on Saturday.

Hutchinson will host No. 9 Kansas City on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex with a 6 p.m. kickoff.&nbsp;

Four Jayhawk Conference teams are ranked, Butler is No. 6, Kansas City No. 9, Cowley No. 14 and Hutchinson is No. 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724411537511.jpeg" alt="(Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)" />
 <figcaption>(Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/wsoc/rankings/DI/index">2024 NJCAA DI WOMEN'S SOCCER POLL | WEEK THREE - 9-16-24</a>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College women's soccer team has moved up one spot to No. 17 in the latest poll released by the NJCAA on Monday.The Blue Dragons are currently 4-1-2 overall, 3-1-2 in Jayhawk Conference play.HutchCC went 1-0-1 last week with a 3-0 win over Coffeyville on Wednesday, and a 1-1 tie at Barton on Saturday.Hutchinson will host No. 9 Kansas City on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex with a 6 p.m. kickoff.&nbsp;Four Jayhawk Conference teams are ranked, Butler is No. 6, Kansas City No. 9, Cowley No. 14 and Hutchinson is No. 17.

⚽ Blue Dragons up one spot to No. 17

<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/fball/rankings/DI/index">2024 NJCAA DI FOOTBALL POLL | WEEK FOUR - 9-16-24</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College football team remains No. 1 in the latest NJCAA DI poll released on Monday afternoon.

The Blue Dragons are currently 3-0 overall after a 33-30 overtime win over then-No. 12 Iowa Central on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.&nbsp;

Hutchinson is off Saturday with a bye, before returning to Gowans Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 28 against Ellsworth for a noon kickoff.

The Blue Dragons received all 12 first-place votes in the poll.

Iowa Western remains at No. 2 and Snow College at No. 3.

Mississippi Gulf Coast moves up a spot to No. 4, while Kilgore falls a spot to No. 5.

Highland, Garden City and Butler are the other Jayhawk Conference schools in the poll. The Scotties are No. 8, Broncbusters No. 11 and Grizzlies No. 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725629120184.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/fball/rankings/DI/index">2024 NJCAA DI FOOTBALL POLL | WEEK FOUR - 9-16-24</a>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College football team remains No. 1 in the latest NJCAA DI poll released on Monday afternoon.The Blue Dragons are currently 3-0 overall after a 33-30 overtime win over then-No. 12 Iowa Central on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.&nbsp;Hutchinson is off Saturday with a bye, before returning to Gowans Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 28 against Ellsworth for a noon kickoff.The Blue Dragons received all 12 first-place votes in the poll.Iowa Western remains at No. 2 and Snow College at No. 3.Mississippi Gulf Coast moves up a spot to No. 4, while Kilgore falls a spot to No. 5.Highland, Garden City and Butler are the other Jayhawk Conference schools in the poll. The Scotties are No. 8, Broncbusters No. 11 and Grizzlies No. 14.

🏈 Blue Dragons remain No. 1 heading into bye week

Center for Economic Development and Business Research

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In a message to constituents this week, the&nbsp;2024 Kansas Economic Outlook Conference schedule was highlighted, and three of the stops will be in the Hutch Post area.

There will be a&nbsp;Rice County Community Outlook Event&nbsp;October 21, 2024 from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Studio 96 at 121 South Broadway in Sterling.

There will be a&nbsp;Kingman County Community Outlook Event October 22, 2024 from&nbsp;8:00 AM - 10:00 AM at the Kingman Activity Center at 121 South Main in Kingman.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673006151808.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Center for Economic Development and Business ResearchHUTCHINSON, Kan. — In a message to constituents this week, the&nbsp;2024 Kansas Economic Outlook Conference schedule was highlighted, and three of the stops will be in the Hutch Post area.There will be a&nbsp;Rice County Community Outlook Event&nbsp;October 21, 2024 from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Studio 96 at 121 South Broadway in Sterling.There will be a&nbsp;Kingman County Community Outlook Event October 22, 2024 from&nbsp;8:00 AM - 10:00 AM at the Kingman Activity Center at 121 South Main in Kingman.&nbsp;There will be a&nbsp;Pratt County Community Outlook Event October 22, 2024 from&nbsp;1:00 - 3:00 PM at Pratt Community College.CEDBR hosts over twenty Economic Outlook Conferences across the state each year. It is a major goal of the Center to use these conferences to provide insight into current local, state, and national economies, address topics of interest to the communities, and facilitate networking opportunities for business professionals, government officials, and economic developers in the communities of Kansas.&nbsp;For the full schedule of events across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cedbr.org/events/upcoming-events">https://www.cedbr.org/events/upcoming-events</a>.