Dear readers,

Over the past few weeks, many of you have probably been asking yourselves the same questions: Who is this new wordsmith that keeps popping up at KUSports.com and in my morning issue of the Journal-World? Who is this handsome brunet who so effortlessly weaves metaphor and insight into his daily stories?

Some of you have probably used the word “genius.” I don’t blame you.

I suppose the best way to begin is by introducing myself. My name is Dugan Hartley Arnett, but you guys can feel free to call me “Mr. Arnett.” Or “Sir.” I was born and raised in Kansas City, Mo., the older of two children. Growing up in the quaint town of Blue Springs, I always knew I was going to go on to do great things. People were always saying things like, “Dugan, you’re a special kid. You’re going to grow up to do great things.” Stuff like that.

I guess I pretty much proved them right. After high school, I went on to graduate from a university about three hours from here. You guys probably haven’t heard of it, though. It’s called the University of Missouri-Columbia? Apparently, it has a really good football team or something? But it’s wonderful to be in Lawrence now, communicating with you fine people.

It’s funny, I started here only a few weeks ago, but already I’m feeling incredibly at home. Every time I turn around I’m getting another warm-hearted message from one of you, wishing me luck in my new professional venture. For instance:

• “What I want to know is why did the LJW replace (former KU football beat reporter) Ryan Wood with a Methzouri graduate in Dugan Arnett?

• “This Dugan guy, the new KU beat writer, is a Hillbilly grad! First Chuckie, now this dork. Can it get any worse?” – konzahawk

• “Dugan is a missery grad and looks like hug tool box [sic]. I cant believe KU fans are going to have to put up with his crap all football season.” – Nutflush21

My mom read those messages and was horrified. “Why are those people saying such horrible things about you?” she asked. But don’t worry. I told her about how you guys were just goofin’ on me ’cause I’m the new guy and all.

Anyway, I know what you must be thinking: “Dugan, it’s a doggone pleasure to have you here in Lawrence! Is there anything we, the readers of your blog, can do to help you get acclimated?”

Well, yes, as a matter of fact, there is. I love writing stories. Always have. And I’m perpetually looking for ideas. So anytime there’s something (or someone) you want to read about, let me know. I am now your official link to Kansas University’s football team. I’m kind of like Avon Barksdale in “The Wire”, except I don’t deal heroin – I deal information. Specifically, information about the Jayhawks football team.

I would like this blog to serve as an open forum (unless, of course, I don’t like something you have to say, in which case I will ban you). A place for you to share your thoughts, ideas, feelings, opinions and phone numbers.

Mostly, I just want to let you guys know how happy I am to be a part of your lives. Call me crazy, but I think this is the start of a beautiful friendship.

Sincerely,

Dugan Hartley Arnett