The transformation of the historic Landmark building at 5th and Main is well underway, and project leader Laura Meyer Dick says it’s on schedule and gaining momentum.

The Meyer Landmark, a redevelopment of the long-vacant downtown structure, recently reached a milestone with the installation of windows—one of many visible signs of progress on the site. The fully framed apartments are in place, rough-in work for plumbing and electrical systems is nearing completion, and preparations are underway for HVAC and storefront window installation in August.

“It’s really fun now,” said Meyer Dick in an interview on the BW Morning Show this week. “We’re on time, and Curtis Mitchell and the team at MBC Construction have been phenomenal to work with.”

The project, which includes 36 apartments and several commercial spaces, is a family affair. Meyer Dick’s daughters have contributed to branding, interior design, and digital outreach. The project website, <a href="http://meyerlandmark.com">meyerlandmark.com</a>, offers a portal for interested tenants to submit a non-binding interest form. So far, 18 people have expressed interest in the units, which will feature modern, contemporary interiors with wood flooring, solid-surface countertops, and a streamlined layout.

In addition to housing, the building will include retail spaces and a planned speakeasy in a 650-square-foot area at the rear of the main floor. Another retail space has already been leased, and Meyer Dick said she’s actively seeking a tenant for a restaurant space—though acknowledging that’s a challenging market.

Parking, often a concern with downtown developments, is also nearly resolved. The building already has 20 spaces on the north side, and Meyer Dick said she’s close to finalizing arrangements for the rest.

Even with the complexity of restoring a historic structure—including surprise concrete issues and design hurdles—Meyer Dick said the experience has been rewarding.

“I was a little naïve in thinking we’d just hire a grant writer and contractor and go,” she said. “But the support from family and professionals like Brent England and our design team has been incredible.”

The goal is to open in mid-to-late summer of 2026. Until then, the team is busy selecting finishes, restoring the elevator, and maintaining a detailed record of the journey—including a documentary currently in production.

“It’s preserving history while redefining living,” Meyer Dick said. “We’re bringing something special back to downtown Hutchinson.”

For updates and apartment interest forms, visit <a href="http://meyerlandmark.com">meyerlandmark.com</a>.

Meyer Landmark project on track for 2026 opening

WICHITA, Kan. — WSU Tech is preparing to break ground on a major expansion of its National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT), a move that promises to significantly boost the pipeline of pilots, automation specialists, and manufacturing professionals in southcentral Kansas.

The new 85,000-square-foot facility will feature modern classrooms, hands-on laboratories, and state-of-the-art training spaces, including a professional pilot training hangar. The project is aimed at supporting the region’s aviation industry and preparing students for high-demand careers.

“We are preparing the next generation of talent to meet industry needs, support innovation, and help secure the future of our region’s economy,” said Dr. Sheree Utash, President of WSU Tech. “With this expansion, we are investing in Wichita and the state of Kansas by strengthening our ability to train students for high-demand careers in aviation, automation, and advanced manufacturing, sectors that continue to evolve and grow.”

The expansion is being funded in part by a $2.2 million ALOFT grant awarded to the Wichita Airport Authority in 2023. Improvements to airport infrastructure and the runway at Jabara Airport, made possible through the grant, helped pave the way for WSU Tech’s program growth.

“The ALOFT grant has literally paved the way for development at Jabara Airport, which is not only great for us but also significant for the community,” said Jesse Romo, Director of Airports for the Wichita Airport Authority. “The grant allowed us to partner with WSU Tech to build out the infrastructure necessary for them to expand their educational programs that directly impact our aviation ecosystem through workforce development and educational programs.”

Designed by Wichita-based TESSERE and to be built by Crossland Construction Company, Inc., the new facility is scheduled to begin construction in August. Classes are expected to start in January 2027.

Once completed, the expansion is projected to serve an additional 1,450 students and trainees within its first three years, further solidifying Wichita’s reputation as the “Air Capital of the World.”

WSU Tech to expand aviation training center

A traffic heads up for this Friday.&nbsp; Main Street will be closed to vehicle traffic between 5th and 6th today. If you are headed downtown, plan ahead and use alternate routes. &nbsp;

Downtown Hutchinson will come alive with music, drinks, and summer vibes Friday evening as Salt City Fest, will be held in front of Salt City Brewing between 5th and 6th avenues on Main Street. &nbsp;

Logan Mize, known for hits like "Better Off Gone" and "Can’t Get Away from a Good Time," is the headliner for the evening.&nbsp;

Tickets for the Salt City Street Party are available at this <a href="https://tickets.loganmize.com/event/salt-city-street-party-feat-logan-mize-wm7ppw?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnLk1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE5d2VFZHI1T1NVenNPUWlyAR7G3ydC4udnRP19KpA62bHy10HucsGpg5pUnHFb2fyazBH9VcejFTdu9T9shg_aem_t9y6sSeXykiLCAZiUQBHZw" target="_blank">link.</a> &nbsp;

Event organizers recommend arriving early to enjoy food, drinks, and a festive atmosphere that’s all about community and Kansas pride.&nbsp;

Main Street closed for Salt City Fest 

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>

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

Kellie likes protecting sharks from hunters.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Her favorite singer/group is Zach Bryan.&nbsp; &nbsp;

What is something your Northern Irish teen would not know about Hutchinson: It is home to the Kansas State Fair.&nbsp;

What are you looking forward to experiencing during the Project: Meeting new people and new experiences.&nbsp;

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

Your family: My mom, dad, one brother and a dog.&nbsp;

Sara likes to dance, go hiking and run.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Favorite singer or group: Sabrina Carpenter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What is something people would not know about Portadown: There is a duck race annually.&nbsp;

What are you looking forward to experiencing in Hutchinson: Experiencing and engaging across all the communities in Hutch.&nbsp;

What is your favorite meal: Sunday roast.&nbsp;

What makes Ireland so special: Leprechauns, potatoes and lucky clover.&nbsp;

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

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

Evonna likes to go shopping, and retail therapy.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Favorite singer or group: Zach Bryan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What is something people would not know about Portadown: River Bonn runs through Portadown

What are you looking forward to experiencing in Hutchinson: Staying with and getting to know my host family.&nbsp;

What is your favorite meal: Pasta, Spaghetti Bolognese.&nbsp;

What makes Ireland so special: The people of the community are really friendly.&nbsp;

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 — 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: Kellie Anderson, Sara Vennard and Evanna Dawson

The engines are roaring, and the excitement is building as Salt City Racing gears up for its biggest event of the year — the Salt City 100. The two-day racing festival kicks off Friday night, at the Kansas State Fairgrounds with a full slate of races, fan events, and a special guest appearance by NASCAR legend Ken Schrader.

“This is our biggest race of the year. It’s the most fun, and it’s our first two-day event of the season,” said Salt City Racing’s Phil Nightingale. “The buzz is out there, and we’re expecting a great turnout.”

Friday’s events begin with Silver Crown cars hitting the track for practice rounds. Fans will also be treated to full races in the sport mod, modified, and stock car classes. Saturday night features the main event: a 100-lap Silver Crown race — the 18th time such a race has been held on the Hutchinson half-mile dirt oval.

Adding to the excitement is Schrader’s appearance in an IMCA Modified race both Friday and Saturday. He’ll also be signing autographs Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the soft opening of 25 Steak &amp; Social, located at 25 East 30th. A $5 donation at the event gets fans a pulled pork sandwich, chips, and drink, with proceeds going to the Cancer Council of Reno County.

Salt City Racing has seen strong momentum this season, with community partnerships and local support helping fuel its return to prominence.

“We don’t just look for sponsors, we build partnerships,” Nightingale said. “The businesses in Hutch and Reno County have been amazing — from Hutch Regional Medical Center to Pizza Ranch, to Evans Building and dozens more — it’s been overwhelming support.”

Tickets for the Salt City 100 are available at <a href="http://saltcityracingllc.com">saltcityracingllc.com</a> or in person at the west ticket booth starting at 5 p.m. both nights. Fans can also scan QR codes on site for fast digital purchases.

Gates open at 5 p.m., with racing action starting at 7:30 p.m. Friday’s races include final practice for the Silver Crown cars and full programs in several divisions. Saturday’s schedule features the main Silver Crown 100-lap event, sprint car features, and IMCA Modified races.

This is the only Salt City Racing event in July. The next two-day race weekend is scheduled for August 22–23, featuring the United Rebel Late Model Series and Super Stocks.

“Grab your neighbors, grab your friends — come out to the fairgrounds and enjoy the show,” Nightingale said. “You won’t want to miss it.”

Salt City Racing to host Salt City 100

In the thick of summer, gas prices are laying low with the national average for a gallon of regular going down one cent from a week ago to $3.16. Pump prices have dipped to match the summer of 2021, the last time seasonal gas prices were this low. 

Meanwhile, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank">low-pressure system</a>&nbsp;off the Gulf Coast has the potential – albeit low – to strengthen, and it’s something to watch as it moves westward.

This time of year, tropical activity can have an effect on gas prices if there’s damage to refineries or if local flooding affects gasoline distribution or demand. &nbsp;

Today’s National Average:&nbsp;$3.160&nbsp; • One Week Ago:&nbsp;$3.172&nbsp; • One Month Ago:&nbsp;$3.167&nbsp; • One Year Ago:&nbsp;$3.512&nbsp;

The state average is slightly lower from last week at $2.869 and is down just under two cents from a month ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Today’s State Average: $2.869 • One Week Ago: $2.884 • One Month Ago: $2.887 • One Year Ago: $3.169

Here are the average prices around the area.&nbsp; • Reno County: $2.575 • McPherson County: $2.701&nbsp; • Stafford County: $2.798 • Rice County: $2.862 • Harvey County: $2.857 • Sedgwick County: $2.930 • Pratt County: $2.944 • Kingman County: $2.958

Averages are for regular grade gasoline.&nbsp;

Dog days of summer deliver lower gas prices

Nancy was rescued with her 3 surviving siblings from a very
rough start to life, fighting for food, fighting for shelter, fighting to live.&nbsp;

Nancy is about 9 months old, only around 30 lbs so will
probably stay a pretty petite girl 

Nancy likes toys, food, and bonding with her foster mom 

Nancy is a typical fun puppy who likes to run and bounce
around, but thanks to her training she knows sit, leave it, and kennel 

She loves a good fuzzy blanket to spread across for a good
nap time. 

Nancy hatessss having to wait while her foster mom is making
breakfast/dinner. She's also not a fan of sharing 

If you adopt Nancy, you're in LUCK because black dogs never
appear dirty! Visit our website to apply to adopt Nancy or any of our other
adoptables!

For information on how to adopt Nancy or other dogs at Redemption Animal Rescue, you can log on to their website at&nbsp;<a href="https://redemptionanimalrescueks.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0buOsjH6Ak6nKNgCNBwDb5bV6hbyPJwNt35LCbxEqxHLWT9GakcoZaYdA_aem_Z_T0bZnPNX3iRoy_eiY2hw" target="_blank">https://redemptionanimalrescueks.com/</a>

Adopt a Furry Friend: Nancy 

Phil Nightingale of Salt City Racing called into the BW Morning show and visited with us about the racing action coming up this weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Phil Nightingale. Salt City Racing 

John Jenkinson called in to the BW Morning Show and visited about issues facing farmers today.&nbsp;

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: John Jenkinson, Farmer and Ag commentator

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.

<a href="https://tickets.loganmize.com/event/salt-city-street-party-feat-logan-mize-wm7ppw?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnLk1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE5d2VFZHI1T1NVenNPUWlyAR7G3ydC4udnRP19KpA62bHy10HucsGpg5pUnHFb2fyazBH9VcejFTdu9T9shg_aem_t9y6sSeXykiLCAZiUQBHZw">Salt City Fest - featuring Logan Mize</a> • 5:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Main Street between 5th and 6th Avenue

<a href="https://www.familycommunitytheatre.org/">Shrek Jr. - The Musical</a> • 7:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Flag Theatre&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://saltcityracingllc.com/">Salt City Racing</a> • 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;

<a href="https://www.renocountyfair.com/">Reno County 4-H Fair Dog Show</a> • 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;

<a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Classic Movie Series: "The Clock" </a>• 2 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Fox Theatre

&nbsp;<a href="https://saltcityracingllc.com/"> Salt City Racing</a> • 7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas State Fairgrounds&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.familycommunitytheatre.org/">Shrek Jr. - The Musical</a> • 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;

<a href="https://www.familycommunitytheatre.org/">Shrek Jr. - The Musical</a> • 3 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Flag Theatre

Happenings Around Hutch • July 17-20

PRATT Kan. - The City of Pratt has announced that Detective Joe Ohler will be the next Chief of Police, bringing with him more than two decades of law enforcement experience and a strong record of leadership within the department.

Ohler, who has served the Pratt Police Department for the past six years, was officially selected following a competitive hiring process. Ohler served as Interim Police Chief following the resignation of former Chief of Police Nate Humble.

With 27 years in law enforcement, Ohler has developed extensive expertise in areas ranging from major crime investigations and crime scene management to specialized roles such as forensic child interviewing and forensic analysis of cellular devices. He has also served on the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and worked as District 13’s Killed in Action (KIA) Coordinator.

City officials praised Ohler’s professionalism, integrity, and dedication, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the department and serve the Pratt community with excellence.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Chief Ohler into this leadership position,” city officials said in a statement. “His experience and commitment to public safety will continue to inspire not only our officers but the entire community.”

The city also extended its appreciation to the interview panel and all applicants who expressed interest in the position.

“The future of Pratt is certainly bright,” the city’s statement concluded.

Ohler named new Pratt Police Chief 

HUTCHINSON, Kan.  — The Hutchinson Monarchs (26-7) will pay host to the Wichita Wildcats tonight at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.&nbsp; This is the final regular season game for the Monarchs for the 2025 season. The NBC World Series will begin on July 24th at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

Tonight's game will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and the MonarchsLive.tv channel. Glen Grunwald of Eagle Media will handle the play-by-play tonight, with Matt Peterson on the video stream.

🎥⚾ WATCH LIVE: Hutch Monarchs wrap up regular season versus Wichita Wildcats tonight

(AP) — The one main constant on Kansas City’s defense during a run of seven straight appearances in the AFC title game has been defensive tackle Chris Jones.

While Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce have carried the offense, Jones has done the same on the defensive end for the Chiefs with his knack of creating pressure at key moments playing a crucial role in Kansas City’s success.

That helped Jones win the honor of being voted the top interior defensive lineman in the league by The Associated Press.

A panel of eight AP Pro Football Writers ranked the top five players at interior defensive line, basing selections on current status entering the 2025 season. First-place votes were worth 10 points. Second through fifth-place votes were worth 5, 3, 2 and 1 points.

Jones got seven of the eight first-place votes to go with one second to win the voting easily. Two other players were on all eight ballots with Dexter Lawrence of the New York Giants getting the other first-place vote to come in second and Philadelphia’s Jalen Carter finishing third.

Pittsburgh’s Cam Heyward finished fourth and Quinnen Williams of the Jets came in fifth.

Seattle’s Leonard Williams, Tennessee’s Jeffery Simmons, Denver’s Zach Allen and Carolina’s Derrick Brown also received votes.

Jones’ sack total of five last season was his lowest since his rookie season in 2016 but he still earned his third straight All-Pro selection after finishing second among all interior defensive linemen with 74 pressures in the regular season, according to Pro Football Focus. Jones’ 72 sacks over the past seven seasons rank tied for fifth overall in that span and tied with Aaron Donald for the most among interior linemen.

While most of the other players who got votes at interior defensive line are “3 technique” tackles who line up on the outside shoulder of the guards, Lawrence mostly plays nose tackle directly over the center. Those players are typically run stoppers since it is easier to double-team them in the pass game but Lawrence thrives at both. He had a career-high nine sacks in 12 games last season and his 103 pressures when lined up as a nose tackle the past three seasons are 80 more than any other player, according to PFF.

Carter was the anchor of Philadelphia’s Super Bowl-winning defense last season. He has 10 1/2 sacks and 102 total pressures in the regular season in his first two years, according to PFF, and helps free up the edge rushers for the Eagles because he warrants so many double teams.

Heyward has shown no signs of aging as heads into this season at age 36. He had eight sacks last season when he earned his fourth first-team All-Pro selection. He has 63 1/2 sacks and 91 tackles for loss in the past eight seasons, earning Pro Bowl bids in seven of them.

🏈 Chiefs’ Chris Jones voted top interior defensive lineman

<a href="https://thetournament.com/tbt/2025-bracket/">TBT Bracket</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://thetournament.com/tbt/2025-schedule/">TBT Schedule</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/">TBT Teams</a>

The Basketball Tournament (TBT) – the $1 million, winner-take-all 64-team summer basketball event tips off Friday with action in eight regional sites, including Wichita and Kansas City.&nbsp;

The Wichita region tips off at 3 p.m. from Charles Koch Arena, on the campus of Wichita State University. Fire Family will face Run DFW, that will be followed by Challenge ALS against Austin's Own (Texas alumni team) at 6 p.m. and then to close out the day, it's&nbsp;the <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/aftershocks/">Aftershocks</a> (Wichita State alumni) facing No Excuses at 8 p.m. All three games will be streamed on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.

The action continues in Wichita on Sunday with Round of 32 action. The 6 p.m. game will be between the winner of Fire Family/Run DFW against No. 1-seed Forever Coogs. The other game Sunday will be between the winners of Challenge ALS/Austin's Own and AfterShocks/No Excuses at 8 p.m. Those two games will be nationally televised, the first being on FS2 and the second on FS1.

The Kansas City regional has both the Kansas and Kansas State alumni teams competing at Municipal Arena.

Saturday at 1 p.m. it's <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/purple-reign-kansas-state-alumni-2/">Purple Reign</a> (Kansas State alumni) facing The Shine, then at 3 p.m. it's <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/jhx-hoops-kansas-alumni/">JHX Hoops</a> (Kansas alumni) against OffDaHook. The day concludes with Sheffield Sharks and DaGuys STL at 5 p.m. All three games streaming on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.

The Round of 32 games in Kansas City will take place Monday. The top-seed, Heartfire will face the winner of Purple Reign/The Shine at 6 p.m. and the winners of JHX Hoops/OffDaHook and Sheffield Sharks/DaGuys STL playing at 8 p.m. with both games steaming on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.

🏀 TBT tips off in Wichita and Kansas City

Pretty Prairie Rodeo results through Night 2

WICHITA, Kan. — The countdown is on. The 2025 NBC World Series is just under a week away, with Opening Night set for Thursday, July 24, at Eck Stadium in Wichita. While several teams have already punched their tickets to one of the nation’s premier summer baseball tournaments, others are still in the heat of competition, battling for a coveted postseason berth.

The CenTex League could be decided tonight as GPS Legends Baseball faces Lonestar Baseball Club-North in a crucial doubleheader last night. The Legends need just one win to secure the league’s second NBC bid. A sweep by Lonestar-North would force a one-game playoff Saturday.&nbsp;

In Oklahoma, the winner of Saturday’s Stan Musial AABC World Series presented by D-BAT will clinch their spot in Wichita.

The Jayhawk Collegiate League continues to provide drama as Junction City Brigade and Derby Twins vie for the league’s second NBC berth. The Hutchinson Monarchs have already clinched the league championship, but the runner-up spot remains very much in play.

Several teams secured their spots this week:

They join a growing list of NBC World Series qualifiers:

The final list of teams and full tournament schedule will be released Sunday, ahead of Thursday’s opening ceremonies and first pitch at Eck Stadium. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early and track updates as more berths are clinched at <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025">nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025</a>.

The 2025 NBC World Series promises another thrilling showcase of elite summer collegiate and semi-pro baseball—don’t miss it.

⚾ NBC World Series berths on the line as tournament nears opening day at Eck Stadium in Wichita

ROSE HILL, Kan. — Behind a dominant pitching performance and late offensive burst, the Hutchinson Monarchs shut out the Wichita Wildcats 6-0 Thursday night to set the stage for their regular season finale on Friday at Hobart-Detter Field.

Hutchinson's pitching staff was lights out, with starter Pryce Bender tossing seven scoreless innings while striking out 10 and allowing just four hits. Whit Rhodes and Brayden Henry closed the door with a pair of clean relief innings to preserve the shutout.

The Monarchs scratched across their first run in the fifth inning when Keegan Demmer reached on an error, stole two bases, and scored on a strikeout-wild pitch sequence. Hutchinson then broke the game open in the eighth with a five-run outburst, highlighted by a solo home run from Blake Bradford and RBI contributions from Jackson Legg, Joey Senstock, and Dylan Bell. A steal of home by Senstock capped the scoring.

Bradford finished 2-for-5 with a homer and two runs scored. Gutierrez added a hit, was hit by a pitch, and scored twice.

Bender struck out 10 Wildcats across his seven innings of work, while Parker Clubb took the loss for Wichita despite striking out eight through six frames.

The Monarchs will wrap up the regular season Friday night back at Hobart-Detter against these same Wildcats. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. The game will also serve as Reno County Food Bank Night at the ballpark—fans are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to donate.

The Monarchs will also host the Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star Game on Saturday night at Hobart-Detter Field.

Both games will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and MonarchsLive.tv.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs stifle Wichita Wildcats in shutout win

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

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

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

HARVEY COUNTY - Harvey County authorities are sounding the alarm after a surge in illegal roadside dumping incidents — including the recent discovery of an entire abandoned boat — disrupted road operations and left taxpayers footing the bill.

In the past week alone, crews responded to four separate dump sites across Harvey County, bringing the total number of incidents this year to 19. Officials say the issue is more than just an eyesore — it’s a costly, hazardous burden on public resources.

"It's disrespectful, shameful and dangerous," said a statement shared by the sheriff's office. "Beyond it being a crime, it impacts drivers, taxpayers and workers. Someone dropped ... off ... a ... boat. A BOAT!"

When roadside dumping is reported, local road crews are called in to remove the debris, taking time and attention away from other critical duties such as road maintenance and emergency repairs.

“Someone's laziness and lack of compassion creates unnecessary work for several other people with far bigger things they'd like to prioritize than cleaning up after others,” the statement continued.

Local

Region

Sports