HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced that at its recent board meetings, Don Whitman was promoted to President &amp; CEO for Superior Boiler, LLC. Doug Wright moves into the role of Chairman. Superior Boiler, LLC, is the operating entity where the company’s industrial watertube boiler product lines reside. It is recognized as a significant division of Superior Holding, Inc. Wright remains in his current role as President &amp; CEO of Superior Holding, Inc.

Whitman has extensive and broad industrial boiler industry experience. He oversaw Superior’s successful relocation of its Richmond, Virginia, operations to Hutchinson in 2020. Over the past few years, Whitman has helped lead considerable division growth while improving operations within the business.

Superior also has promoted Tim Zies to Vice President of Operations for Superior Boiler, LLC. Zies, who has been in increasing roles of responsibility since his arrival at Superior Boiler in 2015, most recently was Director of Operations and Assistant General Manager.

“I am extremely excited to have Don and Tim move into these important roles, which both have earned,” Wright said. “Don has done a tremendous job in all phases of running the business and steadily improved the contributions of our watertube boiler business to the company as a whole. He will have broad authority to operate and run the business and continue to execute on our growth strategies for this important product line. Tim has been a consistent contributor to the company’s success and can always be counted on to assist in any situation he is called upon to help with. He believes strongly in supporting our customers and helping our employees succeed in their roles.”&nbsp; 

Superior Holding is the parent company of Hutchinson, Kansas-based Superior Boiler Technologies, Inc. and Superior Boiler, LLC. Superior Boiler provides engineered energy solutions and is a leader in clean air emissions technology. The company manufactures industrial watertube and flextube boilers, scotch marine and vertical firetube boilers for process steam, hot water and waste heat recovery and high-efficiency hot water condensing boilers. In addition to boilers, Superior Boiler manufactures a full complement of boiler room equipment items and parts and provides 24-hour service. In business since 1917, the company has shipped more than 21,000 boilers throughout the United States and worldwide, and its commitment to unparalleled quality has produced the most dependable boilers available. Superior Boiler employs over 175 people at its Hutchinson locations. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superiorboiler.com/" target="_blank">superiorboiler.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607371923327.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Superior BoilerHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced that at its recent board meetings, Don Whitman was promoted to President &amp; CEO for Superior Boiler, LLC. Doug Wright moves into the role of Chairman. Superior Boiler, LLC, is the operating entity where the company’s industrial watertube boiler product lines reside. It is recognized as a significant division of Superior Holding, Inc. Wright remains in his current role as President &amp; CEO of Superior Holding, Inc.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712019041818.jpeg" alt="Don Whitman-Superior Boiler" />
 <figcaption>Don Whitman-Superior Boiler</figcaption>
 </figure>Whitman has extensive and broad industrial boiler industry experience. He oversaw Superior’s successful relocation of its Richmond, Virginia, operations to Hutchinson in 2020. Over the past few years, Whitman has helped lead considerable division growth while improving operations within the business.Superior also has promoted Tim Zies to Vice President of Operations for Superior Boiler, LLC. Zies, who has been in increasing roles of responsibility since his arrival at Superior Boiler in 2015, most recently was Director of Operations and Assistant General Manager.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712019015283.jpeg" alt="Tim Zies-Superior Boiler" />
 <figcaption>Tim Zies-Superior Boiler</figcaption>
 </figure>“I am extremely excited to have Don and Tim move into these important roles, which both have earned,” Wright said. “Don has done a tremendous job in all phases of running the business and steadily improved the contributions of our watertube boiler business to the company as a whole. He will have broad authority to operate and run the business and continue to execute on our growth strategies for this important product line. Tim has been a consistent contributor to the company’s success and can always be counted on to assist in any situation he is called upon to help with. He believes strongly in supporting our customers and helping our employees succeed in their roles.”&nbsp; Superior Holding is the parent company of Hutchinson, Kansas-based Superior Boiler Technologies, Inc. and Superior Boiler, LLC. Superior Boiler provides engineered energy solutions and is a leader in clean air emissions technology. The company manufactures industrial watertube and flextube boilers, scotch marine and vertical firetube boilers for process steam, hot water and waste heat recovery and high-efficiency hot water condensing boilers. In addition to boilers, Superior Boiler manufactures a full complement of boiler room equipment items and parts and provides 24-hour service. In business since 1917, the company has shipped more than 21,000 boilers throughout the United States and worldwide, and its commitment to unparalleled quality has produced the most dependable boilers available. Superior Boiler employs over 175 people at its Hutchinson locations. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.superiorboiler.com/" target="_blank">superiorboiler.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Superior Boiler announces leadership changes

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The Facilities Steering Committee of Hutchinson Public Schools has been meeting since January 2023 to determine district facility priorities.&nbsp;Community input is invaluable in the following steps as the committee develops a District Facilities Plan that meets the current and future needs and desires of the USD 308 community.

Each session will include a presentation of committee findings, analysis of the current facilities status, identified areas for improvement, and concepts to develop a comprehensive District Facilities Plan that aligns with the District’s objectives.&nbsp;Information gathered from the committee findings and community meetings will be presented to the USD 308 Board of Education in May along with a comprehensive District Facilities Plan. Each session is free to attend and open to the public.

April 2nd, 6:00 p.m., Heartland Credit Union, Avenue A Branch Basement, 129 W. Ave. A

April 4th, 7:00 p.m., NAACP Monthly Meeting, Nunemaker Room HutchCC Campus

April 9th, 6:00 p.m., Wiley Elementary School, 900 W. 21st&nbsp;Ave.

April 10th, 10:30 a.m., Hutchinson Public Library, Meeting Room 1, 901 N. Main

April 10th, 6:00 p.m., Graber Elementary School, 1600 N. Cleveland St.

April 10th, 7:30 p.m., Hutchinson High School, PLC, 1401 N. Severance

April 11th, 5:30 p.m., Lincoln Elementary School, 315 E. Bigger St.

April 11th, 7:00 p.m., Lincoln Elementary School, 315 E. Bigger St. (SPANISH)

April 15th, 6:00 p.m., Avenue A Elementary, 111 S. Madison St.

April 15th, 7:15 p.m., Avenue A Elementary, 111 S. Madison St. (SPANISH)

April 16th, 6:00 p.m., Allen STEM Magnet School, 403 W. 10th&nbsp;Ave.

April 17th, 7:00 p.m., Hutchinson Middle School 7, 210 East Ave A.

April 18th, 6:00 p.m., Morgan Elementary School, 111 West 27th&nbsp;Ave.

To schedule a community meeting with your nonprofit or community group, contact Stacy Goss, USD 308 Director of Communications, at <a href="mailto:communications@usd308.com">communications@usd308.com</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;620-615-4048.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655147159618.jpeg" alt="USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn" />
 <figcaption>USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Public Schools USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The Facilities Steering Committee of Hutchinson Public Schools has been meeting since January 2023 to determine district facility priorities.&nbsp;Community input is invaluable in the following steps as the committee develops a District Facilities Plan that meets the current and future needs and desires of the USD 308 community.Each session will include a presentation of committee findings, analysis of the current facilities status, identified areas for improvement, and concepts to develop a comprehensive District Facilities Plan that aligns with the District’s objectives.&nbsp;Information gathered from the committee findings and community meetings will be presented to the USD 308 Board of Education in May along with a comprehensive District Facilities Plan. Each session is free to attend and open to the public.The schedule of meetings is below:April 2nd, 6:00 p.m., Heartland Credit Union, Avenue A Branch Basement, 129 W. Ave. AApril 4th, 7:00 p.m., NAACP Monthly Meeting, Nunemaker Room HutchCC CampusApril 9th, 6:00 p.m., Wiley Elementary School, 900 W. 21st&nbsp;Ave.April 10th, 10:30 a.m., Hutchinson Public Library, Meeting Room 1, 901 N. MainApril 10th, 6:00 p.m., Graber Elementary School, 1600 N. Cleveland St.April 10th, 7:30 p.m., Hutchinson High School, PLC, 1401 N. SeveranceApril 11th, 5:30 p.m., Lincoln Elementary School, 315 E. Bigger St.April 11th, 7:00 p.m., Lincoln Elementary School, 315 E. Bigger St. (SPANISH)April 15th, 6:00 p.m., Avenue A Elementary, 111 S. Madison St.April 15th, 7:15 p.m., Avenue A Elementary, 111 S. Madison St. (SPANISH)April 16th, 6:00 p.m., Allen STEM Magnet School, 403 W. 10th&nbsp;Ave.April 17th, 7:00 p.m., Hutchinson Middle School 7, 210 East Ave A.April 18th, 6:00 p.m., Morgan Elementary School, 111 West 27th&nbsp;Ave.To schedule a community meeting with your nonprofit or community group, contact Stacy Goss, USD 308 Director of Communications, at <a href="mailto:communications@usd308.com">communications@usd308.com</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;620-615-4048.

First USD 308 facilities community meeting is tonight

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

We have crossed the invisible threshold into spring. While Mother Nature may not be as sure, and we will have some days that feel like winter, we are in the home stretch of the wintry weather and warmer days are ahead.

Those of us in agriculture know that those warmer days mean longer days. Our busy days are just ahead of us, and they come with long hours. Let us face it, our workload is grueling in the spring. I know it is what we all live for but that does not make it any less demanding.

We have also all heard that farming and ranching are among the most dangerous professions in the world, right after coal mining. We all know someone who has been the victim of a farm accident, and if it has not been us, we have all had those instances when we had a near miss.

I do not care how careful you are – all it takes is a split second for an accident to happen. Now mix in long hours, fatigue and being in a rush to get ahead of the weather and the chances of an accident increase dramatically. I know because I was involved in an accident this winter.

I do not want to get into the details, I relive them often enough as it is. No permanent injury occurred, but it could have been much worse. That is what haunts me yet. It was a split second. My brain was screaming at me that the situation was bad, but I could not do anything about it.

Like most accidents this one was preventable and should never have happened. I like to think I am a safe operator. I taught tractor safety for years. I know better. None of that matters in the instant an accident happens.

Can we prevent all accidents? That answer, unfortunately, is no. Parts break, unexpected things happen but we can do our best to make sure that we are as prepared as we can be. Remember to rest. I would guess fatigue causes a significant percentage of all farm accidents. We all think we are superhuman and we can just push through when the reality is just a few minutes of rest can be a life saver.

The other factor is being in a rush. So much of what we do is dependent on the weather and timing. We always feel rushed to plant, work ground, bale hay, harvest, the list goes on. Being in a hurry is the hardest thing to correct. That clock in our brain is telling us to hurry up, and that is when the accident happens. Take a deep breath and slow down. Those extra moments will not make a significant difference on the crop, but they could save your life.

I am grateful the accident I was involved in was not as bad as it could have been, and I send up a prayer of thanks every day for that. It was a warning. One I’m sharing with all my fellow farmers and ranchers. So, this spring, slow down, rest when you need to and, please, stay safe.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherWe have crossed the invisible threshold into spring. While Mother Nature may not be as sure, and we will have some days that feel like winter, we are in the home stretch of the wintry weather and warmer days are ahead.Those of us in agriculture know that those warmer days mean longer days. Our busy days are just ahead of us, and they come with long hours. Let us face it, our workload is grueling in the spring. I know it is what we all live for but that does not make it any less demanding.We have also all heard that farming and ranching are among the most dangerous professions in the world, right after coal mining. We all know someone who has been the victim of a farm accident, and if it has not been us, we have all had those instances when we had a near miss.I do not care how careful you are – all it takes is a split second for an accident to happen. Now mix in long hours, fatigue and being in a rush to get ahead of the weather and the chances of an accident increase dramatically. I know because I was involved in an accident this winter.I do not want to get into the details, I relive them often enough as it is. No permanent injury occurred, but it could have been much worse. That is what haunts me yet. It was a split second. My brain was screaming at me that the situation was bad, but I could not do anything about it.Like most accidents this one was preventable and should never have happened. I like to think I am a safe operator. I taught tractor safety for years. I know better. None of that matters in the instant an accident happens.Can we prevent all accidents? That answer, unfortunately, is no. Parts break, unexpected things happen but we can do our best to make sure that we are as prepared as we can be. Remember to rest. I would guess fatigue causes a significant percentage of all farm accidents. We all think we are superhuman and we can just push through when the reality is just a few minutes of rest can be a life saver.The other factor is being in a rush. So much of what we do is dependent on the weather and timing. We always feel rushed to plant, work ground, bale hay, harvest, the list goes on. Being in a hurry is the hardest thing to correct. That clock in our brain is telling us to hurry up, and that is when the accident happens. Take a deep breath and slow down. Those extra moments will not make a significant difference on the crop, but they could save your life.I am grateful the accident I was involved in was not as bad as it could have been, and I send up a prayer of thanks every day for that. It was a warning. One I’m sharing with all my fellow farmers and ranchers. So, this spring, slow down, rest when you need to and, please, stay safe."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2024 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Insight: Staying safe on the farm

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

4/1/2024 11:59 PM-Jacob	Charles Kerr-DUI; 1st; comp ev blood/breath .08+; child pres; Reckless Driving

4/1/2024 11:07 PM-Mindy	Marie Nelson-Failure to Appear

4/1/2024 6:46 PM-Lionel Reyes Santos-Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate; Registration Violation; Display or Possess a False, Cancelled, Suspended or Revoked Title, Plate, Decal, Placard; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

4/1/2024 6:27 PM-Chelsea	Lynn Kramer-Direct Contempt

4/1/2024 3:55 PM-Randi	Jo Waddell-DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance&nbsp;

4/1/2024 3:12 PM-Hayward	Paul	Mckoy Jr.-DL Violation; No Drivers License; DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator

4/1/2024 12:25 PM-Roy	Lee Pinkston-Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision

4/1/2024 8:39 AM-Dayson	Josue Mejia Ramirez-DL Violation; No Drivers License

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4/1/2024 11:59 PM-Jacob	Charles Kerr-DUI; 1st; comp ev blood/breath .08+; child pres; Reckless Driving4/1/2024 11:07 PM-Mindy	Marie Nelson-Failure to Appear4/1/2024 6:46 PM-Lionel Reyes Santos-Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate; Registration Violation; Display or Possess a False, Cancelled, Suspended or Revoked Title, Plate, Decal, Placard; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv4/1/2024 6:27 PM-Chelsea	Lynn Kramer-Direct Contempt4/1/2024 3:55 PM-Randi	Jo Waddell-DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance&nbsp;4/1/2024 3:12 PM-Hayward	Paul	Mckoy Jr.-DL Violation; No Drivers License; DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator4/1/2024 12:25 PM-Roy	Lee Pinkston-Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision4/1/2024 8:39 AM-Dayson	Josue Mejia Ramirez-DL Violation; No Drivers License

Daily Bookings

Courtesy of HutchCC Sports Information

CASPER, Wyoming – Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball was indeed golden on Monday night.

Trailing by six points with 2:32 to play in the fourth quarter, the top-seeded Blue Dragons were able to force overtime and then dominate the extra session, outscoring defending national champion Northwest Florida State 19-11 in overtime, win the program’s first national championship with an 88-80 victory in the 2024 NJCAA Division I Women’s Tournament.

The Blue Dragons complete the season 37-0, a school record for wins, longest winning streak and best start to a season.

Freshman Kiki Smith was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. She scored a 23 points to lead the Blue Dragons on 10 of 16 shooting with a 3-pointer.

Sophomore Journey Armstead and freshman Hailey Jackson were both named to the All-Tournament team.

Jackson had a team and career-high 25 points. Armstead had 11 points and three assists before fouling out with 5:09 to play in the fourth quarter.

Monae Duffy had 10 points and 9 rebounds.

The Blue Dragons led by as many as 13 points in the third quarter, but Northwest Florida State rallied to take a 55-53 lead and led 68-62 with 2:27 to play.

The Dragons rallies back, closing with a 7-1 run, getting three free throws from Hailey Jackson with 0.7 seconds to play to tie the game at 69-all.

In overtime, Akaysha Muggeridge, Jackson and Smith scored on consecutive possessions for a 77-71 lead and upped the lead to eight at 81-73 on a Muggeridge hoop with 1:18 to go.

The Blue Dragons were 6 of 6 shooting from the floor and 7 of 10 from the foul line in overtime. Northwest Florida State was 5 of 12.

The Blue Dragon win their first national title in women’s basketball, second women’s national championship and 10th overall national championship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712033565446.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Steve Carpenter/HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Steve Carpenter/HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC Sports InformationCASPER, Wyoming – Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball was indeed golden on Monday night.Trailing by six points with 2:32 to play in the fourth quarter, the top-seeded Blue Dragons were able to force overtime and then dominate the extra session, outscoring defending national champion Northwest Florida State 19-11 in overtime, win the program’s first national championship with an 88-80 victory in the 2024 NJCAA Division I Women’s Tournament.The Blue Dragons complete the season 37-0, a school record for wins, longest winning streak and best start to a season.Freshman Kiki Smith was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. She scored a 23 points to lead the Blue Dragons on 10 of 16 shooting with a 3-pointer.Sophomore Journey Armstead and freshman Hailey Jackson were both named to the All-Tournament team.Jackson had a team and career-high 25 points. Armstead had 11 points and three assists before fouling out with 5:09 to play in the fourth quarter.Monae Duffy had 10 points and 9 rebounds.The Blue Dragons led by as many as 13 points in the third quarter, but Northwest Florida State rallied to take a 55-53 lead and led 68-62 with 2:27 to play.The Dragons rallies back, closing with a 7-1 run, getting three free throws from Hailey Jackson with 0.7 seconds to play to tie the game at 69-all.In overtime, Akaysha Muggeridge, Jackson and Smith scored on consecutive possessions for a 77-71 lead and upped the lead to eight at 81-73 on a Muggeridge hoop with 1:18 to go.The Blue Dragons were 6 of 6 shooting from the floor and 7 of 10 from the foul line in overtime. Northwest Florida State was 5 of 12.The Blue Dragon win their first national title in women’s basketball, second women’s national championship and 10th overall national championship.

🏀 WBB: NATIONAL CHAMPS; HutchCC wins first title in program history

HARVEY COUNTY —No April Fool's joke Monday in Harvey County. According to a social media report from Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Chad Crittenden, Master Trooper Morris stopped a motorist on Highway 50 in Harvey County for driving 95mph over the posted speed limit.

In February,  KHP Lieutenant Craig Davis had an encounter with a 2011 BMW on Interstate 70, checking its speed at 151 mph, 76 mph over the speed limit, according to a social media report from the KHP.

During approximately the same week, the Kansas Highway Patrol reported two traffic stops for 100-plus miles per hour within 6 miles in the same afternoon, and both vehicles had children in the car, according to a social media report.

The resulting fine for Lieutenant Davis's efforts on alone amounted to $993, not including the second ticket from police.&nbsp; Trooper Morris did not report the amount of the fine for the driver on Monday.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712016691683.png" alt="Image KHP" />
 <figcaption>Image KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —No April Fool's joke Monday in Harvey County. According to a social media report from Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Chad Crittenden, Master Trooper Morris stopped a motorist on Highway 50 in Harvey County for driving 95mph over the posted speed limit.In February, KHP Lieutenant Craig Davis had an encounter with a 2011 BMW on Interstate 70, checking its speed at 151 mph, 76 mph over the speed limit, according to a social media report from the KHP.During approximately the same week, the Kansas Highway Patrol reported two traffic stops for 100-plus miles per hour within 6 miles in the same afternoon, and both vehicles had children in the car, according to a social media report.The resulting fine for Lieutenant Davis's efforts on alone amounted to $993, not including the second ticket from police.&nbsp; Trooper Morris did not report the amount of the fine for the driver on Monday.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

No April Fool: 95mph over the posted speed limit in Kansas

RICE COUNTY —&nbsp;Depending on the weather, a portion of Old K-14 just south of Sterling will be closed from about 9 a.m. to about 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 9.

The closure – from Garfield Avenue to Avenue Y – will allow Kansas Department of Transportation crews to replace a culvert.

The map shows the section that will be closed, marked in red.

For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to <a href="https://www.kandrive.gov/@-100.55621,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,weatherRadar">www.kandrive.gov</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1711989272553.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TIM POTTER KDOTRICE COUNTY —&nbsp;Depending on the weather, a portion of Old K-14 just south of Sterling will be closed from about 9 a.m. to about 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 9.The closure – from Garfield Avenue to Avenue Y – will allow Kansas Department of Transportation crews to replace a culvert.The map shows the section that will be closed, marked in red.For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to <a href="https://www.kandrive.gov/@-100.55621,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,weatherRadar">www.kandrive.gov</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Possible closing on Old K-14 next week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tyler Davis from Bogey's announced a new venture for his business on social media on Monday.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1711985315592.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tyler Davis from Bogey's announced a new venture for his business on social media on Monday.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fbogeysofhutch%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0f7xroXbMrPmX4xXEwhwzEppYqTpRFS6DpuFyGSwkV5ZSonSRgC3aq9uZxqMFrw1Jl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="698" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Taco Hut has new owners

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson firefighters had to work Easter putting out a fire in a shed west of the city near Fun Valley.

According to a release from the department, crews were called at 4:43 p.m. to the 4300 block of West 4th, where they found a fire in a shed down a long access road away from 4th.

The small shed was almost completely burned before they could put the fire out. Firefighters also brought out a tender and brush unit to be sure the fire didn't spread in the grass. Evergy cut power to the shed to help them finish putting the fire out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707240042490.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson firefighters had to work Easter putting out a fire in a shed west of the city near Fun Valley.According to a release from the department, crews were called at 4:43 p.m. to the 4300 block of West 4th, where they found a fire in a shed down a long access road away from 4th.The small shed was almost completely burned before they could put the fire out. Firefighters also brought out a tender and brush unit to be sure the fire didn't spread in the grass. Evergy cut power to the shed to help them finish putting the fire out.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutch Fire puts out shed fire Sunday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Those dealing with the nitrate problem in Yoder Water District 101 will get a solution, but it's taking a while to get done.

"The City of Hutchinson and Reno County have agreed in principle that Reno County, for Yoder residents, will buy water from the City of Hutchinson," said Reno County Administrator Randy Partington. "We will build a line from somewhere on Airport Road, connect with a meter there and we'll then run it down Yoder Road to blend the water. The contract with the City of Hutchinson has not been completed yet."

It's really about being sure that the math works out for both sides.

"It's really just coming to an agreement of what that rate is, what the commercial water rate is," Partington said. "The City of Hutchinson charges in cubic feet, the county, for our water districts, charges in thousands of gallons, getting different conversions and the agreement that the city of Hutchinson has with the number of meters, versus us just having one meter. It's really just the legal part."&nbsp; 

There are&nbsp;7.48 gallons&nbsp;of water in one cubic foot of water.&nbsp;

"We've been working on the financing, grant applications, loan applications," Partington said. "We just about two months ago, I believe, went to engineering, to full engineering. That takes about three to four months. Then, it has to get KDHE approvals, 90 to 120 days. It will be October or November before we put it out to bid. We're moving as quick as we can, but with government, sometimes the red tape takes a long time."

This means that the line probably won't actually be run until at least next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710536971339.jpg" alt="lake, nature, water" />
 <figcaption>lake, nature, water</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Those dealing with the nitrate problem in Yoder Water District 101 will get a solution, but it's taking a while to get done."The City of Hutchinson and Reno County have agreed in principle that Reno County, for Yoder residents, will buy water from the City of Hutchinson," said Reno County Administrator Randy Partington. "We will build a line from somewhere on Airport Road, connect with a meter there and we'll then run it down Yoder Road to blend the water. The contract with the City of Hutchinson has not been completed yet."It's really about being sure that the math works out for both sides."It's really just coming to an agreement of what that rate is, what the commercial water rate is," Partington said. "The City of Hutchinson charges in cubic feet, the county, for our water districts, charges in thousands of gallons, getting different conversions and the agreement that the city of Hutchinson has with the number of meters, versus us just having one meter. It's really just the legal part."&nbsp; There are&nbsp;7.48 gallons&nbsp;of water in one cubic foot of water.&nbsp;"We've been working on the financing, grant applications, loan applications," Partington said. "We just about two months ago, I believe, went to engineering, to full engineering. That takes about three to four months. Then, it has to get KDHE approvals, 90 to 120 days. It will be October or November before we put it out to bid. We're moving as quick as we can, but with government, sometimes the red tape takes a long time."This means that the line probably won't actually be run until at least next year.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Yoder water solution still waiting on contract

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Megan Hett with Haven USD 312 said they are going to expand their childcare offerings in the coming 2024-2025 school year.

"Our target date is July 1," Hett said. "We hope to add a two year old room in Yoder. That will allow us to move some of our kids from Haven over there. It also helps us reduce the age range in each of our classrooms. Right now, in our toddler room, we've got kids from 12 months all the way to 36 months. You can imagine, that creates some challenges. They are very different developmentally."&nbsp; 

The average age toilet training begins in the United States is&nbsp;between 2 and 3 years of age.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"That's one of the things our providers work on is, getting those kids potty trained, ideally by the time they are three and moving into the pre-K program," Hett said. "We're looking at potentially adding some bathrooms into classrooms out there at Yoder to aid in that, so that we're not constantly running down the hallway."

Until they can get the plumbing run to the rooms, they plan to place the twos right next to the existing restroom access. At Haven, they're looking to repurpose some rooms to have more slots for infants and under 2 toddlers.

"We're working on converting an office space into another infant room," Hett said. "We know that is the biggest need in our county is slots for infants. We'll be able to take a few more infants there. Reducing that toddler room down to just one year olds, 12 to 24 months, that actually increases the amount of kids that we can serve in that space, because of the reduction in age range."

There will also be some RCEC Pre-K classrooms in Yoder, as well, to allow some special needs Pre-K students to be able to travel a lesser distance to class.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686158340312.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Megan Hett with Haven USD 312 said they are going to expand their childcare offerings in the coming 2024-2025 school year."Our target date is July 1," Hett said. "We hope to add a two year old room in Yoder. That will allow us to move some of our kids from Haven over there. It also helps us reduce the age range in each of our classrooms. Right now, in our toddler room, we've got kids from 12 months all the way to 36 months. You can imagine, that creates some challenges. They are very different developmentally."&nbsp; The average age toilet training begins in the United States is&nbsp;between 2 and 3 years of age.&nbsp; &nbsp;"That's one of the things our providers work on is, getting those kids potty trained, ideally by the time they are three and moving into the pre-K program," Hett said. "We're looking at potentially adding some bathrooms into classrooms out there at Yoder to aid in that, so that we're not constantly running down the hallway." Until they can get the plumbing run to the rooms, they plan to place the twos right next to the existing restroom access. At Haven, they're looking to repurpose some rooms to have more slots for infants and under 2 toddlers."We're working on converting an office space into another infant room," Hett said. "We know that is the biggest need in our county is slots for infants. We'll be able to take a few more infants there. Reducing that toddler room down to just one year olds, 12 to 24 months, that actually increases the amount of kids that we can serve in that space, because of the reduction in age range."There will also be some RCEC Pre-K classrooms in Yoder, as well, to allow some special needs Pre-K students to be able to travel a lesser distance to class.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Hett: USD 312 expanding childcare for coming year

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;HutchCC President Carter File will be honored at a retirement reception by the school's Board of Trustees and administration on Tuesday, April 2. 

The reception is from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with remarks at 4:30 p.m. in the Gallery Theatre of the Stringer Fine Arts Center.

File submitted his request to the college board of trustees in November indicating his intent to retire effective August 31, 2024.

File is the college's seventh president. He started at HutchCC in 2005 as the Vice President of Finance and Operations. He was elevated to the presidency in July 2014. His retirement will end his more than 24-year career in higher education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695475921110.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Community CollegeHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;HutchCC President Carter File will be honored at a retirement reception by the school's Board of Trustees and administration on Tuesday, April 2. The reception is from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with remarks at 4:30 p.m. in the Gallery Theatre of the Stringer Fine Arts Center.File submitted his request to the college board of trustees in November indicating his intent to retire effective August 31, 2024.File is the college's seventh president. He started at HutchCC in 2005 as the Vice President of Finance and Operations. He was elevated to the presidency in July 2014. His retirement will end his more than 24-year career in higher education.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Retirement reception for File Tuesday

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

4/1/2024 3:07 AM-Haylea	Marie Getman-Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm&nbsp;

3/31/2024 10:07 PM-Jasmine	Nikole Claycomb-Drugs; Distribute Substance containing Heroin / Methamphetamine; 3.5g to &lt; 100g; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of marijuana; Poss of hallucinogenic drug

3/31/2024 7:18 PM-Kevin	Leigh Towell-Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner; Criminal Restraint; Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Abuse of a child; Torture or beating child &lt;18

3/31/2024 1:13 PM-Larry	Wayne Kelley-Failure to Appear

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4/1/2024 3:07 AM-Haylea	Marie Getman-Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm&nbsp;3/31/2024 10:07 PM-Jasmine	Nikole Claycomb-Drugs; Distribute Substance containing Heroin / Methamphetamine; 3.5g to &lt; 100g; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of marijuana; Poss of hallucinogenic drug3/31/2024 7:18 PM-Kevin	Leigh Towell-Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner; Criminal Restraint; Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Abuse of a child; Torture or beating child &lt;183/31/2024 1:13 PM-Larry	Wayne Kelley-Failure to Appear

MCPHERSON, Kan. — On Sunday, March 31, 2024 at 3:29 a.m. McPherson Police Department responded to a shooting which occured in the 400 Block of East Avenue A. 

     A 41 year old male was at home when he heard someone trying to get into his residence. The homeowner went to the door with his firearm. The male suspect attempted to enter the residence and the homeowner fired his weapon onetime hitting the suspect in the abdomen. 

McPherson EMS transported the male suspect to the McPherson Hospital. The male suspect was later transferred to Hutchinson Regional Hospital with serious but non life threatening injuries. 

    There is no danger to the public as this was an isolated incident. 

     This investigation is ongoing by the McPherson Police Department. 

If anyone has any information about this incident they are encouraged to contact the McPherson Police Department. 

As always, we ask our residents to remember the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/9pm?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUD_FVa63P1GgfHhzheZuDZG1iiGoZ_VMLCrJ53dJwY516p_zFZEwhIm0RrVttZ2_ciuugR6q0R3-LaFtxGioCsdtdz4d1-_PBuSbLaVl0xHhTWslQe9BG8wcPCzwGAU1TSmJLdahIpCigvEPUwdJK5RZ0dcffsrWfyc5RLTahVqEpJoCiJTygaZ5LgIdJk6zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#9pm</a> routine. Keep your vehicles, residences, and garages locked and keep your valuables secured and out of sight.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711889972995.jpeg" alt="McPherson Release" />
 <figcaption>McPherson Release</figcaption>
 </figure>McPherson Police DepartmentMCPHERSON, Kan. — On Sunday, March 31, 2024 at 3:29 a.m. McPherson Police Department responded to a shooting which occured in the 400 Block of East Avenue A. A 41 year old male was at home when he heard someone trying to get into his residence. The homeowner went to the door with his firearm. The male suspect attempted to enter the residence and the homeowner fired his weapon onetime hitting the suspect in the abdomen. McPherson EMS transported the male suspect to the McPherson Hospital. The male suspect was later transferred to Hutchinson Regional Hospital with serious but non life threatening injuries. There is no danger to the public as this was an isolated incident. This investigation is ongoing by the McPherson Police Department. If anyone has any information about this incident they are encouraged to contact the McPherson Police Department. As always, we ask our residents to remember the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/9pm?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUD_FVa63P1GgfHhzheZuDZG1iiGoZ_VMLCrJ53dJwY516p_zFZEwhIm0RrVttZ2_ciuugR6q0R3-LaFtxGioCsdtdz4d1-_PBuSbLaVl0xHhTWslQe9BG8wcPCzwGAU1TSmJLdahIpCigvEPUwdJK5RZ0dcffsrWfyc5RLTahVqEpJoCiJTygaZ5LgIdJk6zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#9pm</a> routine. Keep your vehicles, residences, and garages locked and keep your valuables secured and out of sight.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

McPherson resident shoots intruder Easter morning

Editor's Note: Below is the transcript of the interview conducted with Hutchinson area pastors aired on Good Friday, March 29, 2024.

Nick Gosnell: Good morning, joining us this morning, we have several pastors from the Hutchinson area, Matt Stafford from First Congregational, Kent Peterson from Inspire Church, Roy Jaye from First Southern Baptist, John Wolf from Temple Baptist, and Andy Addis from CrossPoint, all with us to talk about the Easter season, Good Friday and Easter, and just to look a little bit introspectively as we go through this springtime season. But Matt, you five guys, you enjoy each other's company, I know that for sure. We've done a little bit before we even started this recording, and we are recording because it's Good Friday, you all are busy. Give us a chance to talk about the agreement here, and there's quite a bit of it. 

Matt Stafford: The agreement here is one that we all are in unity with, and that is the resurrection is the central theme in every Christian sermon that you find reported in Acts, and the resurrection as consequences were the gospel, that's the good news that all of our churches preach and teach, and to preach Christianity meant to the apostles primarily to preach the resurrection. So we all gather here today with the unity that we believe in a resurrected living Christ.

Nick Gosnell: I'm going to start with Kent, not just because he's my pastor, full disclosure, but because it's left to right in the room, and that way I don't get lost. So that's what we're going with here. But as the resurrection gives meaning to everything else, Kent, what do you say to somebody who maybe is just learning the story for the first time? 

Kent Pedersen: Well, it's honestly hard for me to believe that someone in America is learning the story for the first time, but we are in postmodern, it is not a surprise as well. But for someone that is hearing it for the first time, first of all, I think it's a great advantage in many ways, because we can get to the point that we hear about the resurrection, and that's why we want to keep it before us. It can lose its kind of awe and power that we've heard it for so many times, and we just, we take it for granted. For someone that would have never heard it before, certainly tough to believe. Matt kind of referenced earlier, maybe before, without the resurrection, we have nothing. We're nothing more than, at the end of the day, and the end of our, for lack of a better word, our careers, we're nothing more than motivational speakers that are selling a false hope. So it's all on the resurrection, and it's the power of God, it's the wisdom of God. If you've never heard, I think it's a great, great thing to tell, hard thing to believe. 

Nick Gosnell: First Corinthians talks about just, it doesn't matter who you hear as a it matters Christ crucified, where Paul says, I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So Roy, what are you hoping in this Easter season to grow, not only in your congregation, but Hutch generally? 

Roy Jaye: Just the interest in the mysterious story of the gospel. There's a reason that scripture talks about faith. Faith is, is trusting in that you can't see and touch, but putting trust and confidence in that, and the object of the Christian faith is Jesus Christ. So that is a great faith. That is the only eternal faith, when you look at scripture and you see that. I pray that God will use us in sparking people's interest. Those, we're surprised, as you pose the question to Kent, there's people in Hutch, the name of Jesus is very new to them. I just want that mysterious part of the gospel, as in the supernatural part, which includes this literal resurrection of this God man, this fully God and fully man, this savior, his body's gone. They never found it. I hope that that is what the Lord uses in drawing people to himself to see the hope. There's more to life than just life. This life is not the end. It's just the beginning.

Nick Gosnell: John Wolf from Temple Baptist. Do you believe that actually believing that there was a real person named Jesus and he really died and he really rose is important? 

John Wolf: Yeah, I think it's absolutely critical. It's not just important. It is essential. Yes, there was a real person, multiple accounts. I love the gospel of Luke because at the beginning of the gospel of Luke, he says, I'm writing, he tells us his sources and their primary sources, which you had to be an eyewitness or you had to be involved or he didn't talk to you, and then he says, I'm writing so that you may know for certain. And he was writing to somebody who had heard of all the stories about the Greek gods and he says, this one's different. Because this one, he comes in as fully God, as Roy mentioned, fully God, fully man. I mean, he takes a whole chapter to expound that. And then later talks about the death, burial and resurrection as a friend of mine would say, actual, factual and physical thing that took place. And Luke was trained as a physician. So for him to say, yes, he rose from the dead is absolutely the key. And if we don't have that, if we're saying, well, no, I'm not sure that that's accurate, then where do we go with our flaws? Where do we go with our sin? We have no hope without that.

Nick Gosnell: And so, Andy, talk about the man Jesus for just a second, because fully God and fully man is hard, is a hard concept to come across. But on the cross is one of the areas where where you really do see Jesus' humanity. 

Andy Addis: Absolutely. I mean, we call it the incarnation, meaning that he wasn't half God and half man. He was fully God and fully man, the only man to ever walk the face of the earth who was that. C.S. Lewis tells us that the claims that he makes put us in what he called a trilemma, that if Jesus really is who he said he was, if Jesus was to die on the cross and come back from the grave, then he is one of three things. He is Lord, liar or lunatic. He says he's a lunatic on the level of a man who claims he's a poached egg. He's a liar straight out of the depths of hell because he is giving you, like Kent said a moment ago, a false hope, or he is actually Lord. And that means he is worth submitting to. So if he is this God man, when we see him on the cross and we see him suffer, not only did he cry out things like, this is your mother, this is your son. He was setting up welfare between one of his disciples and his mom from the cross. Father, forgive them. They don't know what they do. I mean, that was an incredible statement. But my favorite, one of the gospels says just in a loud voice, he cried. But then in yet another gospel, I believe it's in John, you actually know what he said. He goes, it is finished. And that was the Greek word tetelestai, where he had displayed his brokenness in the not weakness, but his humanness in the garden, sweating drops of blood from the cross. He cried a victory cry and basically said, we have won. The debt is paid and the battle is over.

Nick Gosnell: Good Friday, Easter weekend happening. And so we wanted to give them a chance to talk a little bit about Easter. And we'll start with Matt again, this time...there are those folks, some that have other religion traditions going through the month of Ramadan with Islamic folks and so on that say, yeah, Jesus happened. He was real, but he was just a good teacher like our good teachers are. Where do Christians differ from that? 

Matt Stafford: Well, where Christians differ is that if he's just a good teacher, then there's no salvation. There's no Lord. He's basically just somebody that you go to to get advice. And the Christians look at it. Let me just back up and say this. You know, there are a lot of people who say, hey, we're in the land of the living, headed to the land of the dying. But that's just the opposite. We live in the land of the dying, headed to the land of the living. And if anybody needs to be reminded of that, look at the obituaries. The death rate among humans is still 100%. What Jesus did is come and proclaim that I am God, the creator God. I've come because I want a relationship with you. You're my creation and you are lost and I'm going to redeem you. And guess what? It's all because of who I am. It's by grace. Compare that to any other religion. You have to do something to earn it. You must climb the rung. You must make sure you deserve this or you're not quite there. Some say you got to come back, try it again. But we believe that we are fruit from the giver of life. And that is Jesus. So, and to be honest with you, if Jesus is not the savior, if he did not rise from the dead, I'm out. 

Nick Gosnell: Back to Kent once again. Kent, you have daughters, I have sons. When you try to communicate this message to the next generation, how do you do it? How do you say to a generation that says, is anything true anymore? We've watched people go through a pandemic and life completely changed. And there's more confusion, depression, mental illness that is at the forefront of life than I can ever remember in my lifetime. But yet we're supposed to have hope? I know it's hard for me to get that across to my boys, and I know that your girls are out of the house now, but how do you get that across? 

Kent Pedersen: Well, that's a great question. I'm thinking that, you know, one is what we're all trying to say here is that we're all hanging on to a hope. I mean, we are holding on to hope and we have no hope if there is no resurrection. If there is no real Jesus that is, Andy said, fully God, fully human, we have no hope. And Jesus is the only one of any religion that makes any claim, or we're the ones that make any claim that we actually serve one that was once dead and is alive again. Muhammad, they didn't do that. Buddha, Hindus may come back as something. There's no other claim that their leader, their God is resurrected, that was once dead and is alive again. And again, that we hold our everything on that hope of the resurrected Christ, that 500 witnesses saw him, that all the disciples...the message I'm preaching from on Easter Sunday is going down to Sunday night when they were all still gathered in fear behind closed doors. You know, even though the women had seen him, and even though Peter and John had seen the empty tomb, they were still in fear that night until they saw the resurrected Jesus. And of course, you know, 50 days later, the church exploded in power because they had gone from being cowards to being courageous, not because of what they believed, but for what they saw. 

Nick Gosnell: We have the Bible, Roy, to go back to in reference, but we don't have that what they saw component. So again, not to harp on the same thing, but how do we get the reality of the resurrection across to people when you don't have the, well, I know Peter, we went fishing when I was a boy, kind of a way of working of things. 

Roy Jaye: We point them towards the little Jesuses that we know. See, there's a lot of little Jesuses in Hutch, they're called born again Christians, and God's spirit is alive in them. And so we point them towards those people who were blind, but now they see. We point them towards those people who were lost and they were seeking, but now they're found. And everyone who is around them sees and realizes, wait a minute, this is more than a relationship with a church or denomination. He is transformed. She is transformed. And that's a huge part of it, Nick, is we don't use testimonies, and Andy's one of the strongest storytellers around, and he reminds me the power of stories. We need to be sure children hear stories of transformation, not only from books, but from people's mouths. And the evidence that Christ is alive is He's alive in me. He's alive in you, and I praise Him. 

Nick Gosnell: Well, that brings me back to the lyrics of the old hymn, I serve a risen Savior. He's in the world today. 

I know that He is living, whatever men may say. I see His hand of mercy. I hear His voice of cheer, and just the time I need Him, He's always near. 

He lives, He lives. Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart. 

Nick Gosnell: Roy Jaye from First Southern Baptist, Kent Peterson from Inspire Church, Matt Stafford from First Congregational, John Wolf from Temple Baptist, and Andy Addis from Crosspoint talking about Easter, John, what does it mean to make Jesus Lord of your life? That's a churchy phrase. Put it into English for us. 

John Wolf: You're right, and I try to not use churchy language, but very simply, it means I have to remove myself as being in charge of my own life. When I think I'm the captain of my ship, when I think I'm in charge of my destiny, I make myself God of my life. And so for Jesus to be Lord means, Andy used the word submit, I prefer the word surrender. I'm going to surrender not just my thoughts, but my agenda, my preferences, my schedule, which frequently does not go the way I planned, etc. Surrender all that, even the things good and the things that I interpret as not so good coming to me, I surrender them to Him and His will and what He wants to do with them in my life. It is a complete and total saying, you're in charge and I'll do whatever you need me to do. 

Nick Gosnell: Andy, how can you surrender to somebody who allows, pick your catastrophe? Sandy Hook, Uvalde, the crisis at the southern border humanitarian-wise, Gaza, walk through the news cycle over the last several years, how can you call a God Lord who lets all that happen? 

Andy Addis: Well, first of all, you have to understand that humanity as a part of creation is going to serve. Let's go to the old prophet Bob Dylan. It may be the devil or it may be the Lord, but you're going to have to serve somebody. And that's, you see that in Romans 6, you're either a slave to sin or a slave to righteousness. But what you're asking is the philosophical problem of the problem of good and evil. And to answer that, how do you serve a God who makes all this stuff happen? Well, first of all, that's an assumption. He didn't make any of this happen. That every cancer, every death, every time you've cried into the pillow at night because your heart was broken, every time you've been stabbed in the back, it's because of humanity turning away from God and not what God has done to them. The Garden of Eden was the beginning of the mess that we lived in perfection. Think about this. They were naked, knew no shame. All they had to do was pick fruit, eat, be fruitful and multiply. There were no taxes. Can I get an amen? So everything was perfect. With disobedience came sin and with sin came death. And all of that pain is death. So when you say, how can you serve a God who, you know, the question is, why don't we run to a God who will save us from, the reality is that when you say that these things exist and you blame God, the only reason he's blameable is that he gave us free will and that we got to choose. But if we didn't get to choose, you say, if God knew that that was our choice, then why didn't he save us from that? Well, then there would never be a relationship. We would never truly love him nor hate him. We would never choose good nor evil. We'd be robots, instinctual creatures. But God took the risk because he wanted one creature that would love him back as much as he loved them. And we have suffered the consequences of choosing poorly, but we can't blame God for those things, yet we should run to him in the midst of them. 

Nick Gosnell: Andy got the hard question and I freely admit that. But that's where, when there are tragedies that happen, whether they're way out somewhere else where we don't know where they're at or whether they're right on our doorstep, because it's your child that has the cancer diagnosis, or it's your parent that is in a terrible accident, or it's your whatever, whatever person you're closest to, all of a sudden something happens and their life changes completely. I'll go to Kent for this one, but there is comfort in knowing that we're not in charge of it, isn't there? 

Kent Pedersen: There is a comfort in that God is sovereign and that we're not God because it's way beyond our scope. His ways are higher than our ways. His thoughts are greater than our thoughts. I know that can sound churchish or a little trite, but the reality is so many of these things we're talking about here is way above my pay grade. And if we spend our time in those areas of trying to understand that, I think we'll lose out on the hope of the future that God has for us. He came to redeem and restore what was lost and was broken. And even in death, as Psalm 23 says, we are in a fear no evil for God is with us if we hold on to the hope of that relationship that he died for us. He paid the penalty for our sin. He rose again. And because of that, yes, this life has its heart hurts and heartaches and brokenness. But there is a day that God is going to set things all straight, make all things right. And he's going to restore us to that paradise, that Eden that was at the beginning. He's working towards that end for all of us, if we will believe. 

Nick Gosnell: Well, it's wonderful to have an us. But Matt, in this business, we're always told to talk to one person and that you always have a conversation between you and the one person over there listening on the radio, because only their set of there may be a thousand sets of ears listening, but only one at a time. That's what a relationship with Jesus is about, isn't it? It's about it's about you. I mean, I'm using the word you generally to mean the person on the other end of this conversation we're having on the radio, you individually and God, not you and grandma who loved Jesus very much or you and your wife or husband who is a wonderful Christian or you and your kids who keep dragging you to church because they love Sunday School. It's about you and Jesus, isn't it? 

Matt Stafford: I would say 100 percent that to begin with, but I believe he's created the church to be a community for us to gather together as the body of Christ so that we know we can lean on each other. You know, hope has been mentioned here. Well, hope has a name and the name is Jesus. Jesus prayed in the garden right before the crucifixion. He prayed for his disciples. He goes, they're not in the world. They're not of the world, but they're in the world. And then he prayed. I pray for those who will believe, which means he had a relationship with us before we were born. I'm praying for those who will believe. And then on the cross, he's challenged by one of those on each side of him saying, if you are who you say you are, change my circumstances. Jesus doesn't even answer that person. Why? Because he did not come to save the physical. He cannot save the corrupted. But the one who says, remember me, he said, today, you will be with me in paradise, which means what? Not your, not your body. We have to remember that we do not have a soul. We are a soul. And so that that person out there right now who's listening to this says, I have nowhere else left to turn. Jesus has got you to that position so that you can look to him and say, my name is hope. And I can change you from the inside out, I may not change your circumstances, but I will help you through them. I will get you through them. The next church you drive by, you might want to just go in there and say, I've come here to find Jesus.

Nick Gosnell: I just want to give everybody a chance to talk about their their Easter and Holy Week services. So what's happening when, we'll start with Roy. 

Roy Jaye: On Easter Sunday, 6:45 a.m. sunrise service. Again, weather will dictate we're planning on being outside, breakfast following after that. And then our regular 10:45 service on Easter Sunday, on Resurrection Sunday. And we have free family portraits for all guests. We have a beautiful backdrop all ready for Easter 2024 and guests will receive free family portraits. And so love to see you there on Sunday. 

John Wolf: On Easter Sunday at 1030, as it will be our main resurrection service, we're going to begin the celebration by baptizing some folks who have just recently found Jesus. I can't think of a better way. And we'll also celebrate the way he taught us to by the sacrament he gave us. And we'll do that at 10:30 on Easter Sunday morning and and just relish in the thought of being together with family. 

Andy Addis: We have a number of locations across the state. So if you're not in Hutchinson, if you go to Crosspointchurch.com, you can look up your city where we have Crosspoint Church. But in Hutch on Good Friday, we'll have two Good Friday services at 5 and 7 p.m. And then on Easter weekend, we have five services, two on Saturday at 5 and 7 p.m. and three on Sunday at 7:30, 9 and 11. 

Nick Gosnell: All right, Kent, at Inspire Church? 

Kent Pedersen: Thank you, Andy, for that. You can go to inspirehutch.church and get all our information on everything going on at Inspire Church. But our Good Friday service is 6:30 on Friday night. And we have two services, Resurrection Sunday, 9:30 and 10:45. And as John is doing, we're looking forward to having baptisms as well. Celebrate Resurrection Day. All right, Sands, First Congregational, Matt. Yes, thank you. We're very traditional in our normal Easter service. And you can go to firstcongregationalhutch.org to find out more information. 

Nick Gosnell: All right, we still have two, maybe three minutes left, which I'm hoping is enough for Matt. But really, I wanted to step back for just a second and say to that person on the other side of the radio, if they are ready to make a decision to make this Easter the first Easter that they're a Christian. I had the privilege, when my son was 10 years old, Easter morning is when he came to know Jesus for the very first time. And that was really fun, my oldest. And so if somebody says, you know what, it's all falling into place for me now. I understand what you're saying, and I believe what the Bible says. How can they do that? And how would you suggest? 

Matt Stafford: Well, as Scripture tells us, whosoever shall call upon in the name of the Lord shall be saved. And I would encourage them to just kneel down or sit down wherever they are right now and just call out to Christ. I mean, whoever calls out to him will not be turned away, not at all. And then find a good church home in Hutchinson, because we have a lot of them.  This is just a small representation of all the pastors and churches we are aware with. And I want to just speak also to those out there who may have not been going to church for a long time. And I want you to know how much Jesus loves you. And as a follower of Jesus, it's not tied to your ability to meet his expectations. And there is no such thing as a lost cause when there's grace.

Nick Gosnell: Well, gentlemen, thank you so much for your time. This is just a wonderful opportunity for people. And what they also need to understand is there's no minimum here. There's no maximum here. Everybody comes to the cross at the same place. Whether you feel like, hey, I'm a pretty good guy. I've done life right. Or boy, I haven't. In case we have any of the listeners even up to and including inside the prison here in Hutchinson, if they happen to have their radio on this morning. From one end of the spectrum to the other in human terms, it doesn't matter. There's no difference between the one and the other. They all have that shortcoming between their standard and God's standard. And Jesus is the only way to bridge the gap, isn't it, Matt? 

Matt Stafford: Exactly right. That you go to any of our churches, all these men who've spoken today, they're going to tell you the same thing. All are sinning and coming short of the glory of God. And it's only through Christ's work and grace that gives you a chance, gives you a chance to say, I need to get this burden removed from me. And go to these churches, go to their websites, look them up. I mean, if you want to go see a baptism, go to Inspire and go to Temple coming Easter Sunday, and you'll see what that is a testimony. Okay, there's no righteous work in that. It's a testimony that I was dirty and now I'm clean because of Jesus Christ. And it's also a testimony, I believe in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. So I think people out there know you either got Christ in your heart or you don't. But he's always calling out, come unto to me and I will give you rest. 

Our thanks to pastors Roy Jaye,  Kent Pedersen, John Wolfe, Andy Addis, and Matt Stafford for joining us and to you for listening as well. Happy Easter, everyone.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🎧 LISTEN: Audio and Transcript from Good Friday interview with Hutchinson pastors

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Administrator Randy Partington told Hutch Post that there has been quite a bit of work done on the new shooting range for the Reno County Sheriff's Office out by the Reno County Landfill.

"We're on phase one right now of the shooting range," Partington said. "The berms are up at the landfill, the concrete platform, I believe, has been laid. They are working on the awning that would go over where the shooting would take place, the canopy. That's phase one, that's in process right now."

The sheriff's office then wants to count the cost again before going forward with the rest of the project.

"I believe the sheriff has reached out to the contractors to get updated cost estimates for the training building that was going to be phase two, so that the sheriff and myself can then go to the County Commission sometime this spring with those updated numbers to see if the county commission wants to move forward with phase two."

The officers would be able to use the area for practice after phase one, but in order to have additional classes or host other groups, it would be best if they had the building to use.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679423947823.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Administrator Randy Partington told Hutch Post that there has been quite a bit of work done on the new shooting range for the Reno County Sheriff's Office out by the Reno County Landfill."We're on phase one right now of the shooting range," Partington said. "The berms are up at the landfill, the concrete platform, I believe, has been laid. They are working on the awning that would go over where the shooting would take place, the canopy. That's phase one, that's in process right now."The sheriff's office then wants to count the cost again before going forward with the rest of the project."I believe the sheriff has reached out to the contractors to get updated cost estimates for the training building that was going to be phase two, so that the sheriff and myself can then go to the County Commission sometime this spring with those updated numbers to see if the county commission wants to move forward with phase two."The officers would be able to use the area for practice after phase one, but in order to have additional classes or host other groups, it would be best if they had the building to use.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Shooting range for county progressing

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cancer Council of Reno County announced March 27 that&nbsp;Katie Brown will be joining the group as CCRC's Director of Fundraising and Events.

Brown has served on the Board of Directors for the past two years and has big plans for the fundraisers that CCRC already does plus many new ideas. 

Brown is finishing her fifth year as a 4th grade teacher at Morgan Elementary, but she'll also stay involved with the Salthawks starting next year by serving at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068211242768&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXeoK9mKuOY83J_ot4ARAitH5foLf1Hb3vY6teCT-EKRRwKJYfK8ly3hdkZ9JuA90k2kNu-N_GqRKEu5bLg1yNjU17WAf_57Ox2mhS-fcbVeQyr3wHfnPnKT0F3O9xoq-x0KCrL_pbXHFj7ogeH46J8Jh2XsAAQ2CV_gOmc_wC4v11Q8_Hm6z8chbqT01ZbYmI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Salthawk Community Support</a> as&nbsp;Volunteer Coordinator beginning with the 2024-25 school year.

Her primary responsibilities will be to recruit, train and support volunteers to serve as student mentors and tutors at Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School 8.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711816720719.jpeg" alt="Katie Brown" />
 <figcaption>Katie Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cancer Council of Reno County announced March 27 that&nbsp;Katie Brown will be joining the group as CCRC's Director of Fundraising and Events.Brown has served on the Board of Directors for the past two years and has big plans for the fundraisers that CCRC already does plus many new ideas. Brown is finishing her fifth year as a 4th grade teacher at Morgan Elementary, but she'll also stay involved with the Salthawks starting next year by serving at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068211242768&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXeoK9mKuOY83J_ot4ARAitH5foLf1Hb3vY6teCT-EKRRwKJYfK8ly3hdkZ9JuA90k2kNu-N_GqRKEu5bLg1yNjU17WAf_57Ox2mhS-fcbVeQyr3wHfnPnKT0F3O9xoq-x0KCrL_pbXHFj7ogeH46J8Jh2XsAAQ2CV_gOmc_wC4v11Q8_Hm6z8chbqT01ZbYmI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Salthawk Community Support</a> as&nbsp;Volunteer Coordinator beginning with the 2024-25 school year. Her primary responsibilities will be to recruit, train and support volunteers to serve as student mentors and tutors at Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School 8.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Nonprofits announce hiring of USD 308 teacher

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

3/30/2024 6:09 PM-Ray	Jeff Best-Failure to Appear; In Transit From-To Other Agency

3/30/2024 12:48 PM-Matthew	Thomas Gamber-Viol protection order; Condition of release

3/30/2024 12:16 PM-Kendall	Loula Ryan-Failure to Appear

3/30/2024 7:16 AM-Sommer	Nicole Logan-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;3/30/2024 6:09 PM-Ray	Jeff Best-Failure to Appear; In Transit From-To Other Agency3/30/2024 12:48 PM-Matthew	Thomas Gamber-Viol protection order; Condition of release3/30/2024 12:16 PM-Kendall	Loula Ryan-Failure to Appear3/30/2024 7:16 AM-Sommer	Nicole Logan-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Coming into Saturday's championship game, the Barton County Cougars had won the three NJCAA Tournament games in which they played by 15, 14 and 15 points respectively. 

The Cougars kept that trend of double digit victories in the tournament, and Barton took the title home with an 88-73 win over Triton Saturday afternoon at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

Triton hung with Barton for most of the game, but it was a 7-0 spurt by Ring Malith that got the Cougars going and gave them a 23-21 lead at the 8:06 mark of the first half. Malith then kept it rolling for 18 points in the first half. Hutch High graduate Myles Thompson had 15 before halftime for the Cougars and Barton led at the break 46-39.

The big stat for Barton was points in the paint as they outscored Triton 34-20 in the red, as Thompson led the Cougars with a game-high 27 points. Malith had 22. Cooper Jackson and Lajae Jones each scored 14 for Barton.

Dior Conners paced the Trojans with 24 points, Amar Aguillard had 23 and Dylan Williams and AJ Dixon each added 10.

Barton's biggest lead was 15, and Triton got it as close as five with a Conners three with 3:48 to play. After that, Thompson was fouled and made a pair of free throws, the Trojans turned it over and Thompson hit a hook, then Barton got a steal but missed two layups. Aguillard tried one from deep to cut it to two possessions and missed and then the dagger came from Cooper Jackson from three at 2:34 to go and Triton never got within single digits after that.&nbsp;

Jones was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. Thompson and Malith made the all-tournament team, along with Aguillard and Dixon from Triton.

Barton wins the title at 36-1. Triton ends their season at 34-3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711830323273.jpeg" alt="Barton and Triton played in the NJCAA Men's Division I basketball tournament final on March 30, 2024. Photo by Nick Gosnell." />
 <figcaption>Barton and Triton played in the NJCAA Men's Division I basketball tournament final on March 30, 2024. Photo by Nick Gosnell.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Coming into Saturday's championship game, the Barton County Cougars had won the three NJCAA Tournament games in which they played by 15, 14 and 15 points respectively. The Cougars kept that trend of double digit victories in the tournament, and Barton took the title home with an 88-73 win over Triton Saturday afternoon at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.Triton hung with Barton for most of the game, but it was a 7-0 spurt by Ring Malith that got the Cougars going and gave them a 23-21 lead at the 8:06 mark of the first half. Malith then kept it rolling for 18 points in the first half. Hutch High graduate Myles Thompson had 15 before halftime for the Cougars and Barton led at the break 46-39.The big stat for Barton was points in the paint as they outscored Triton 34-20 in the red, as Thompson led the Cougars with a game-high 27 points. Malith had 22. Cooper Jackson and Lajae Jones each scored 14 for Barton.Dior Conners paced the Trojans with 24 points, Amar Aguillard had 23 and Dylan Williams and AJ Dixon each added 10.Barton's biggest lead was 15, and Triton got it as close as five with a Conners three with 3:48 to play. After that, Thompson was fouled and made a pair of free throws, the Trojans turned it over and Thompson hit a hook, then Barton got a steal but missed two layups. Aguillard tried one from deep to cut it to two possessions and missed and then the dagger came from Cooper Jackson from three at 2:34 to go and Triton never got within single digits after that.&nbsp;Jones was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. Thompson and Malith made the all-tournament team, along with Aguillard and Dixon from Triton.Barton wins the title at 36-1. Triton ends their season at 34-3.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

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