Take the ultimate challenge at the 2025 Hutchinson Polar Plunge! 

Brave the chilly waters in support of Special Olympics Kansas, whether you’re plunging solo or with a team. 

Join us for a fun-filled morning of excitement, costumes, and community as we make a splash for a great cause. 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable event!

Event Schedule: 9:00 a.m. – Registration opens 10:00 a.m. – The Polar Plunge begins!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743165664136.png" alt="Reno County Polar Plunge" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Polar Plunge</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICETake the ultimate challenge at the 2025 Hutchinson Polar Plunge! Brave the chilly waters in support of Special Olympics Kansas, whether you’re plunging solo or with a team. Join us for a fun-filled morning of excitement, costumes, and community as we make a splash for a great cause. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable event!Event Schedule: 9:00 a.m. – Registration opens 10:00 a.m. – The Polar Plunge begins!

Reno County Sheriffs Office to take "Polar Plunge" Saturday

RUSH COUNTY—&nbsp;The Rush County Sheriff’s Office was involved in a cruelty to animals investigation Wednesday. Deputies responded to an initial report of a firearm being stolen from a residence in La Crosse, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

 During the investigation, the firearm was found inside the residence. Deputies observed poor living conditions in the residence, many animals in the residence, as well as other factors in the residence that led to probable cause to arrest both residents. 

A search warrant was secured and upon searching the residence, 54 live animals were removed from the residence and placement was found for each animal in six separate facilities. 

The Rush County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by a veterinarian on scene, as well as three Animal Control Officers from the Hutchinson Kansas Animal Control. 

Without their assistance, it would have been difficult to determine the needs of each animal to properly place them. The initial deputies finished the investigation, working approximately 44 hours in the last 48 hours to make sure their duties were complete and every animal was safe. 

They were also assisted by the rest of the patrol team, not being on duty, who worked approximately nineteen hours, with minimal sleep beforehand, to make sure all duties were complete and all animals were safe. This is an ongoing criminal investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743091228527.png" alt="Photos Rush Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Rush Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSH COUNTY—&nbsp;The Rush County Sheriff’s Office was involved in a cruelty to animals investigation Wednesday. Deputies responded to an initial report of a firearm being stolen from a residence in La Crosse, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743091273494.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> During the investigation, the firearm was found inside the residence. Deputies observed poor living conditions in the residence, many animals in the residence, as well as other factors in the residence that led to probable cause to arrest both residents. A search warrant was secured and upon searching the residence, 54 live animals were removed from the residence and placement was found for each animal in six separate facilities. The Rush County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by a veterinarian on scene, as well as three Animal Control Officers from the Hutchinson Kansas Animal Control. Without their assistance, it would have been difficult to determine the needs of each animal to properly place them. The initial deputies finished the investigation, working approximately 44 hours in the last 48 hours to make sure their duties were complete and every animal was safe. They were also assisted by the rest of the patrol team, not being on duty, who worked approximately nineteen hours, with minimal sleep beforehand, to make sure all duties were complete and all animals were safe. This is an ongoing criminal investigation.

Animal Control Officers from Hutch help rescue 54 animals from home

South Hutchinson, Kansas: Mennonite Friendship Communities announced today a renovation project with Ward Davis Builders. Renovation begins April 2025 and will be completed mid-summer.

“We are excited to begin our first phase of renovation at MFC! Through the caring and generosity of our friends and families, this begins our campus-wide effort to update and modernize the home of our residents. We are humbled by all who continue to be interested in the services and successes of Mennonite Friendship Communities. (Dawn Veh, Executive Director)

“Ward Davis Builders are pleased to partner with MFC on this renovation. The South entrance may now merely be an employee entrance, but it is the first-place people see when they drive into MFC. The project will run about four months. There will be some design work and a few special-order items, so we will start mid-to-late April.” (Ward Davis)

Updated Structure – This entrance has been in place for nearly 50 years and shows an incredible amount of wear. The support columns and framework have experienced significant moisture damage, peeling paint, warping, and cracking, leading to a poor first impression.

Modern Appearance – This entryway is one of the most important features of our MFC Healthcare location and is the first thing that our residents and families see when they arrive on campus. In addition to functional improvements (lighting, flooring, improved flow), this updated space sets the tone for the great care that happens within.

Energy Efficiency – This renovation offers significant benefits with the updated structure, window treatments, and lighting, leading to lower utility bills and long-term cost savings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742953971746.jpeg" alt="Mennonite Friendship Communities" />
 <figcaption>Mennonite Friendship Communities</figcaption>
 </figure>South Hutchinson, Kansas: Mennonite Friendship Communities announced today a renovation project with Ward Davis Builders. Renovation begins April 2025 and will be completed mid-summer.“We are excited to begin our first phase of renovation at MFC! Through the caring and generosity of our friends and families, this begins our campus-wide effort to update and modernize the home of our residents. We are humbled by all who continue to be interested in the services and successes of Mennonite Friendship Communities. (Dawn Veh, Executive Director)“Ward Davis Builders are pleased to partner with MFC on this renovation. The South entrance may now merely be an employee entrance, but it is the first-place people see when they drive into MFC. The project will run about four months. There will be some design work and a few special-order items, so we will start mid-to-late April.” (Ward Davis)The benefits of this renovation include:Updated Structure – This entrance has been in place for nearly 50 years and shows an incredible amount of wear. The support columns and framework have experienced significant moisture damage, peeling paint, warping, and cracking, leading to a poor first impression.Modern Appearance – This entryway is one of the most important features of our MFC Healthcare location and is the first thing that our residents and families see when they arrive on campus. In addition to functional improvements (lighting, flooring, improved flow), this updated space sets the tone for the great care that happens within.Energy Efficiency – This renovation offers significant benefits with the updated structure, window treatments, and lighting, leading to lower utility bills and long-term cost savings.

Mennonite Friendship Communities to begin entryway renovation

James A Byrd was born on February 22, 1949, in Dallas, Texas. In September of that year, he moved to Joplin, Missouri, where he was raised and educated.

On February 4, 1959, he became a member of the Lord’s family, a faith he carried throughout his life.

At the age of 17, James enlisted in the United States Navy in April 1966. He was first assigned to the USS Rehoboth, an oceanography survey ship, and later served aboard the USS Tolovana, an oil tanker. His service included two Far East tours and eight months off the coast of Vietnam.

In January 1968, his ship was deployed to Korea in response to the USS Pueblo seizure. Shortly after, he witnessed the Tet Offensive, one of the largest military campaigns of the Vietnam War.

Following his return to the U.S., James underwent training in Security Intelligence and weapons in Coronado, California.

He was then deployed to Da Nang, Vietnam, where he served in the Security Police Division at Tien Sha Peninsula, defending Camp Tien Sha and its surrounding areas.

For his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device. He was honorably discharged on September 16, 1969, after serving three years, four months, and 14 days—nearly three years of which were overseas.

A proud veteran, James was actively involved in organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and Vietnam Veterans of America.

In 1982, he founded J.A. Byrd Exterminating and Pest Control Company in Joplin, Missouri, operating it for 30+ years. His professionalism earned him contracts with major companies such as CFI Trucking, The Joplin Globe, and Leggett &amp; Platt Inc.

On April 18, 2005, James married Gail (Blevins) Byrd in Miami, Oklahoma. In 2013, due to health concerns, they relocated to South Hutchinson, Kansas.

He is survived by his wife Gail; stepson Adam Fairbanks (Kari); stepdaughter Erin Beckman (Ben); and grandchildren Ethan, Evan, Hayley, Othel, Nikita, Timmy, and River. And many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Elizabeth Bigley and Talmadge Leon Byrd; stepfather Ralph Bigley; son James Richard Byrd; brother Tommy Leon Byrd; and sisters Frances Atkinson, Georgia Louise Fletchall, Henria McCoy, and Dorothy Phillips.

A devoted Christian, James was a faithful member of Better Life Ministries/Hutch.

A service will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Better Life Ministries/Hutch, 113 East 4th Street, Hutchinson, Kansas. Pastor Jon Wuthnow presiding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743104561106.jpeg" alt="James Byrd" />
 <figcaption>James Byrd</figcaption>
 </figure>James A Byrd was born on February 22, 1949, in Dallas, Texas. In September of that year, he moved to Joplin, Missouri, where he was raised and educated.On February 4, 1959, he became a member of the Lord’s family, a faith he carried throughout his life.At the age of 17, James enlisted in the United States Navy in April 1966. He was first assigned to the USS Rehoboth, an oceanography survey ship, and later served aboard the USS Tolovana, an oil tanker. His service included two Far East tours and eight months off the coast of Vietnam.In January 1968, his ship was deployed to Korea in response to the USS Pueblo seizure. Shortly after, he witnessed the Tet Offensive, one of the largest military campaigns of the Vietnam War.Following his return to the U.S., James underwent training in Security Intelligence and weapons in Coronado, California.He was then deployed to Da Nang, Vietnam, where he served in the Security Police Division at Tien Sha Peninsula, defending Camp Tien Sha and its surrounding areas.For his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device. He was honorably discharged on September 16, 1969, after serving three years, four months, and 14 days—nearly three years of which were overseas.A proud veteran, James was actively involved in organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and Vietnam Veterans of America.In 1982, he founded J.A. Byrd Exterminating and Pest Control Company in Joplin, Missouri, operating it for 30+ years. His professionalism earned him contracts with major companies such as CFI Trucking, The Joplin Globe, and Leggett &amp; Platt Inc.On April 18, 2005, James married Gail (Blevins) Byrd in Miami, Oklahoma. In 2013, due to health concerns, they relocated to South Hutchinson, Kansas.He is survived by his wife Gail; stepson Adam Fairbanks (Kari); stepdaughter Erin Beckman (Ben); and grandchildren Ethan, Evan, Hayley, Othel, Nikita, Timmy, and River. And many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents Elizabeth Bigley and Talmadge Leon Byrd; stepfather Ralph Bigley; son James Richard Byrd; brother Tommy Leon Byrd; and sisters Frances Atkinson, Georgia Louise Fletchall, Henria McCoy, and Dorothy Phillips.A devoted Christian, James was a faithful member of Better Life Ministries/Hutch.A service will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Better Life Ministries/Hutch, 113 East 4th Street, Hutchinson, Kansas. Pastor Jon Wuthnow presiding.

James A Byrd  | 1949-2025 |

Gary Winter, 73, died March 25, 2025, at Pleasant View Home, Inman. He was born to Arnold and Elsie Fehdrau Winter on December 9, 1951, in McPherson, Kansas. While growing up, he enjoyed goofing off with friends, farming for his favorite neighbor G.G. Kaufman and working at the grocery store for Ike. He graduated from Inman High School.

He was a truck driver for most of his life, his handle being “Rain Maker.” He preferred to stay close to home, unless he was driving with his friend Clarence Ledbetter, who had taught him a lot about trucking. He later formed his own trucking company, Winter Trucking. He retired from MKC as a fuel truck driver, where he loved delivering fuel to farmers and companies.

Gary had also worked for the City of Inman with his brother-in-law, Bill Maurer and Jason Stubby. His most proud accomplishment was proposing and making the city park pond.

His hobbies included fishing on anything from farm ponds to lakes to the deep sea, a love he got from his dad. He also enjoyed tinkering to fixing and painting anything and everything.

Gary was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hutchinson.

On September 2, 1989, he married Vivian Bowman in McPherson. She survives.

Other survivors include a daughter, Ashley Bowman, Inman; a son, Shane Bowman and Amanda, Inman; grandchildren, Kadence and Talon Welch and Owen Dirks, all of Inman; sister, Donna Maurer, Inman; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 2-4pm Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Inman Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, March 31, 2025, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hutchinson. Burial will follow at the North Inman Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to be used for the grandchildren’s education fund. To leave a condolence for the family, visit: www.inmanfh.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743104428844.jpeg" alt="Gary Winter 1951-2025" />
 <figcaption>Gary Winter 1951-2025</figcaption>
 </figure>Gary Winter, 73, died March 25, 2025, at Pleasant View Home, Inman. He was born to Arnold and Elsie Fehdrau Winter on December 9, 1951, in McPherson, Kansas. While growing up, he enjoyed goofing off with friends, farming for his favorite neighbor G.G. Kaufman and working at the grocery store for Ike. He graduated from Inman High School.He was a truck driver for most of his life, his handle being “Rain Maker.” He preferred to stay close to home, unless he was driving with his friend Clarence Ledbetter, who had taught him a lot about trucking. He later formed his own trucking company, Winter Trucking. He retired from MKC as a fuel truck driver, where he loved delivering fuel to farmers and companies.Gary had also worked for the City of Inman with his brother-in-law, Bill Maurer and Jason Stubby. His most proud accomplishment was proposing and making the city park pond.His hobbies included fishing on anything from farm ponds to lakes to the deep sea, a love he got from his dad. He also enjoyed tinkering to fixing and painting anything and everything.Gary was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hutchinson.On September 2, 1989, he married Vivian Bowman in McPherson. She survives.Other survivors include a daughter, Ashley Bowman, Inman; a son, Shane Bowman and Amanda, Inman; grandchildren, Kadence and Talon Welch and Owen Dirks, all of Inman; sister, Donna Maurer, Inman; and many nieces and nephews.Visitation will be held from 2-4pm Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Inman Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, March 31, 2025, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hutchinson. Burial will follow at the North Inman Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to be used for the grandchildren’s education fund. To leave a condolence for the family, visit: www.inmanfh.com.

Gary Winter  | 1951-2025 |

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

STEVE HARMON Hutch Post Contributor

Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the unit block of East 2nd on the south side.

In all of Hutchinson's long history, the two structures that have always occupied the addresses of 15, 17 and 19 E. 2nd Ave. have always been establishments for lodging.

The first, built in 1888, was the New Howard House.

Then by 1893, it became the Brunswick Hotel. The first photo shows that about 1904.

In 1905, it became the Baldwin Hotel. The second photo shows that about 1922.

In 1937, the upper floor was relabeled the Midland Hotel, with the lower floor leased out to Salt City Federal Savings &amp; Loan and the Wade Patton Insurance Co. The third photo shows the businesses as they looked in 1939.

In 1946, The Bisonte Hotel closed and Hutch was limited in downtown amenities.

In January 1949, V.M. Wiley and Ray Dillon spearheaded the proposal of the Metropolitan Hotel Corp. to build a new downtown hotel and convention center. They sold stock for this venture and, in 1953, construction started. The fourth photo shows the hotel construction in 1953.

On Feb. 13, 1954, the Baker Hotel opened. The fifth photo shows the Baker Hotel in 1958.

It housed many famous guests. The sixth photo shows Roy Clark and Jimmy Dean having dinner in the Baker Hotel dining room in 1962. They were in town to perform at the Kansas State Fair.

After many ownership changes, such as the Hilton Inn, Key To America Inn and The Kansas Inn, it was shuttered in 1975.

The building was purchased in 1978 and converted to downtown apartments and renamed Plaza Towers. The seventh photo shows the 15-19 E. 2nd building today, still the Plaza Towers and owned by Mark and Phoebe Davenport out of Kansas City, Kansas.

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

Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026371920.png" alt="Hotels - Baker - 15-19 E. 2nd - 1958 (Baker opened in 1954). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Hotels - Baker - 15-19 E. 2nd - 1958 (Baker opened in 1954). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714573898261.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>STEVE HARMON Hutch Post ContributorToday's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the unit block of East 2nd on the south side.In all of Hutchinson's long history, the two structures that have always occupied the addresses of 15, 17 and 19 E. 2nd Ave. have always been establishments for lodging.The first, built in 1888, was the New Howard House.Then by 1893, it became the Brunswick Hotel. The first photo shows that about 1904.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026440472.png" alt="Hotels - Brunswick Hotel - 15-19 E. 2nd - c. 1904. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Hotels - Brunswick Hotel - 15-19 E. 2nd - c. 1904. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1905, it became the Baldwin Hotel. The second photo shows that about 1922.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026468152.png" alt="Hotels - Baldwin Hotel - 15-19 E. 2nd - 1922. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Hotels - Baldwin Hotel - 15-19 E. 2nd - 1922. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1937, the upper floor was relabeled the Midland Hotel, with the lower floor leased out to Salt City Federal Savings &amp; Loan and the Wade Patton Insurance Co. The third photo shows the businesses as they looked in 1939.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026495080.png" alt="Hotels - Midland - 15-19 E. 2nd - 1939 (with Salt City Federal &amp; Wade Patton Insurance. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Hotels - Midland - 15-19 E. 2nd - 1939 (with Salt City Federal &amp; Wade Patton Insurance. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1946, The Bisonte Hotel closed and Hutch was limited in downtown amenities.In January 1949, V.M. Wiley and Ray Dillon spearheaded the proposal of the Metropolitan Hotel Corp. to build a new downtown hotel and convention center. They sold stock for this venture and, in 1953, construction started. The fourth photo shows the hotel construction in 1953.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026553720.png" alt="Hotels - Old Santa Fe Station - 3rd &amp; Walnut - 1953 (Baker Hotel under construction). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Hotels - Old Santa Fe Station - 3rd &amp; Walnut - 1953 (Baker Hotel under construction). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>On Feb. 13, 1954, the Baker Hotel opened. The fifth photo shows the Baker Hotel in 1958.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026371920.png" alt="Hotels - Baker - 15-19 E. 2nd - 1958 (Baker opened in 1954). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Hotels - Baker - 15-19 E. 2nd - 1958 (Baker opened in 1954). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>It housed many famous guests. The sixth photo shows Roy Clark and Jimmy Dean having dinner in the Baker Hotel dining room in 1962. They were in town to perform at the Kansas State Fair.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026593240.png" alt="Hotels - Roy Clark, Mack Sanders &amp; Jimmy Dean at the Baker Hotel Dining Room - September 1962 - played at fair (Clark passed Nov. 15, 2018). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Hotels - Roy Clark, Mack Sanders &amp; Jimmy Dean at the Baker Hotel Dining Room - September 1962 - played at fair (Clark passed Nov. 15, 2018). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>After many ownership changes, such as the Hilton Inn, Key To America Inn and The Kansas Inn, it was shuttered in 1975.The building was purchased in 1978 and converted to downtown apartments and renamed Plaza Towers. The seventh photo shows the 15-19 E. 2nd building today, still the Plaza Towers and owned by Mark and Phoebe Davenport out of Kansas City, Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743026666704.png" alt="Hotels - Plaza Towers - 17 E. 2nd - Feb. 17, 2025. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Hotels - Plaza Towers - 17 E. 2nd - Feb. 17, 2025. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a>

📷 Throwback Thursday: Plaza Towers - Vol. 115

<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/championships/sports/mbkb/div1/index">TOURNAMENT CENTRAL</a>

<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">CLICK HERE FOR RADIO STREAM</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/espnplus/schedule?channel=ESPN_PLUS">CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO STREAM ($)</a>

Game 17: Connors State (Okla.) 66, Daytona State College (Fla.) 65

Game 18: Trinity Valley (Tex.) 61, Cowley College (Kan.) 60

Game 19: South Plains College (Tex.) 79,&nbsp;Angelina College (Tex.) 70

Game 20: Panola College (Tex.) 75, Vincennes (Ind.) 67

The glass slipper is strapped on tight for the Connors State men.

The No. 17-seed Cowboys rallied from 12 points down with 5:05 left to defeat No. 8 Daytona State Wednesday 66-65 in the quarterfinals of the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I Men’s Basketball Championship tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Connors advances to the semifinals for the second straight year and plays the winner of No. 12 South Plains and No. 4 Angelina at 5:30 p.m. Friday.

The difference in the first half was minimal as Connors trailed 30-25 at intermission. The Cowboys converted 11 of 30 (38.7%) shots to the Falcons’ 10-of-32 (31.3%) shooting. However, Daytona made three 3s to CSC’s two and converted seven free throws of Connors’ four.

The second half started in the Cowboys favor and they scored the first five points of the half to tie the score at 30-30 with 18:17 left in the half. But the Falcons went on a run of their own, scoring seven straight to retake the lead 37-30.

Connors came right back and with 14:54 to go had completed a 7-0 spurt to tie the score at 37-37.

The see-saw then tilted in favor of the Falcons as they found their range from beyond the arc, hitting three 3s while dropping in two two-point buckets to get out to a 50-42 lead with 11:08 remaining in regulation.

Daytona State kept up the hot shooting and with 5:05 left they led 61-49.

But the Cowboys put on a rally. After a flagrant foul was called against a Daytona player, Jeremiah Johnson made two free throws and Monday’s hero DJ Dormu nailed a 3 from just outside the arc, and with 2:55 left, the Cowboys trailed 65-59.

At the 1:23 mark, Edwin Daniel hit a 3 and the deficit was cut to 65-62. And with 38.3 to go, Dormu nailed a 3 from the left win to tie the score at 65-65.

With 7.2 seconds left, Daniel was fouled and made one of two free throws. The second attempt bounced off the rim and Daniel grabbed the rebound and was fouled again with 5.9 left.

This time he missed both and Daytona, with no time outs, dribbled the length of the floor but missed the final shot as the Cowboys move on.

Daniel led the Cowboys with 17 points, while Dormu had 15 points and Aric Walls finished with 13 points. As a team, Connors shot 41.8% (23 of 55) from the field while Daytona State made 38.1% of its shots (24 of 63).

The Trinity Valley Cardinals won a thriller over Cowley College on Wednesday, 61-60, to advance to the semifinals of the NJCAA tournament.

The Cardinals blocked the final shot of the game to seal the win.

Trinity Valley scored the first seven points of the game, but Cowley held a 28-25 lead at halftime. In the second half, Cowley led by as many as 10 points before the Cardinals battled back. TVCC took their first lead of the half with 10:10 left at 43-42. TVCC was up by as many as eight points before Cowley brought it back to within a point with 90 seconds left in the game. MJ Wardlow go the bucket and the foul to put TVCC up by three with 36 seconds remaining.

Tyler Smith and Cameron Williams led the way for the Cardinals. Smith was 5-of-13 from the floor to finish with 14 points, one rebound and one assist. Williams was 7-of-9 from the floor to finish with 14 points, seven rebounds and an assist. Garrett Nuckolls (Bullard) had nine points, four rebounds and three assists.

The Angelina College Roadrunners’ season comes to an end on Wednesday night with a 79-70 loss to South Plains College in the quarterfinal round of the NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball tournament.

South Plains outscored Angelina in the paint, 38-18.

The Roadrunners went back and forth with the Texans in the first half and held a 36-33 lead at the halftime break. In the second half, Angelina led by seven points with 11 minutes to go in the game. Both teams continued trading buckets and trading the lead. With 7:10 remaining, South Plains went on an 11-0 scoring run to take a nine point lead and the Texans never surrendered the lead again.

Leading the way for Angelina was Jordan Mathews with 16 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Kanaan Holder (Hudson) had 14 points and an assist.

Waqo Tessema and the Panola College men’s basketball team picked a great night for a career-high scoring night and a season-high in 3-pointers made.

Tessema scored a career-high 24 points, including seven 3-pointers; Travis Torain scored 16 points with four 3-pointers; and Khoi Thurmon had a double-double with 13 points and 12 assists as No. 6 seeded Panola hit a season-high 14 3-pointers in defeating No. 14 seeded Vincennes 75-67 in a NJCAA Division I quarterfinal matchup on Wednesday in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Tessema connected on 7-of-14 from behind the 3-point line, and Torain hit 4-of-9 from beyond the arc.

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Panola (29-6), who on Tuesday defeated No. 11 Frank Phillips 60-53, started off strong building their lead to as many as nine points early in the game.

Vincennes (28-5) battled back to give Panola their first deficit in the tournament by taking a five-point lead late in the first half behind the hot shooting of Travelle Bryson.

But Panola didn’t let the deficit deter them as the Ponies tied the Trail Blazers 40-40 going to the half.

Behind four quick Worsham points, Panola took a 44-40 lead and the Ponies staved off the Trail Blazers the rest of the game.

Vincennes, who defeated No. 3 seeded Indian Wells 85-71 on Monday, had trouble scoring from the outside in the second half as Panola completely shut down Bryson in the second half.

Bryson —&nbsp;who scored 17 points in the first half, including five 3-pointers —&nbsp;ended up going scoreless in the second half.

Panola stayed even keel from beyond the arc as the Ponies hit seven 3s in the first half and seven 3s in the second half.

The Ponies built their lead to as many as 11 in the second half before the Trail Blazers cut the deficit down to as little as four points.

LeBron Thomas and Bryson each scored 17 points for Vincennes as Thomas added six rebounds and seven assists.

Bryan Akanmu scored 10 points with six rebounds and five assists for the Trail Blazers.

After Panola’s lead was cut to four at 67-63, Torain hit back-to-back 3s that stretched the Ponies’ lead back to double digits with 2:28 left in the game.

Enel St. Bernard scored four points and added seven rebounds and three block, and Benicio Leons added six rebounds and a pair of steals for the Ponies.

Panola will face a very familiar opponent in the semifinals: None other than Trinity Valley. The No. 7-seeded Cardinals defeated No. 2 seed Cowley 61-60 in another quarterfinal matchup.

This will be the fourth time these two Region XIV Conference rivals will have squared off this season.

Panola has taken two out of the three matchups against Trinity Valley, including a 67-59 victory in the Region XIV Tournament championship back on March 15.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742176424420.png" alt="Photo Courtesy NJCAA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NJCAA</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.njcaa.org/championships/sports/mbkb/div1/index">TOURNAMENT CENTRAL</a><a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">CLICK HERE FOR RADIO STREAM</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/espnplus/schedule?channel=ESPN_PLUS">CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO STREAM ($)</a>Game 17: Connors State (Okla.) 66, Daytona State College (Fla.) 65Game 18: Trinity Valley (Tex.) 61, Cowley College (Kan.) 60Game 19: South Plains College (Tex.) 79,&nbsp;Angelina College (Tex.) 70Game 20: Panola College (Tex.) 75, Vincennes (Ind.) 67Game 17 recap:The glass slipper is strapped on tight for the Connors State men.The No. 17-seed Cowboys rallied from 12 points down with 5:05 left to defeat No. 8 Daytona State Wednesday 66-65 in the quarterfinals of the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I Men’s Basketball Championship tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas.Connors advances to the semifinals for the second straight year and plays the winner of No. 12 South Plains and No. 4 Angelina at 5:30 p.m. Friday.The difference in the first half was minimal as Connors trailed 30-25 at intermission. The Cowboys converted 11 of 30 (38.7%) shots to the Falcons’ 10-of-32 (31.3%) shooting. However, Daytona made three 3s to CSC’s two and converted seven free throws of Connors’ four.The second half started in the Cowboys favor and they scored the first five points of the half to tie the score at 30-30 with 18:17 left in the half. But the Falcons went on a run of their own, scoring seven straight to retake the lead 37-30.Connors came right back and with 14:54 to go had completed a 7-0 spurt to tie the score at 37-37.The see-saw then tilted in favor of the Falcons as they found their range from beyond the arc, hitting three 3s while dropping in two two-point buckets to get out to a 50-42 lead with 11:08 remaining in regulation.Daytona State kept up the hot shooting and with 5:05 left they led 61-49.But the Cowboys put on a rally. After a flagrant foul was called against a Daytona player, Jeremiah Johnson made two free throws and Monday’s hero DJ Dormu nailed a 3 from just outside the arc, and with 2:55 left, the Cowboys trailed 65-59.At the 1:23 mark, Edwin Daniel hit a 3 and the deficit was cut to 65-62. And with 38.3 to go, Dormu nailed a 3 from the left win to tie the score at 65-65.With 7.2 seconds left, Daniel was fouled and made one of two free throws. The second attempt bounced off the rim and Daniel grabbed the rebound and was fouled again with 5.9 left.This time he missed both and Daytona, with no time outs, dribbled the length of the floor but missed the final shot as the Cowboys move on.Daniel led the Cowboys with 17 points, while Dormu had 15 points and Aric Walls finished with 13 points. As a team, Connors shot 41.8% (23 of 55) from the field while Daytona State made 38.1% of its shots (24 of 63).Game 18 recap:The Trinity Valley Cardinals won a thriller over Cowley College on Wednesday, 61-60, to advance to the semifinals of the NJCAA tournament.The Cardinals blocked the final shot of the game to seal the win.Trinity Valley scored the first seven points of the game, but Cowley held a 28-25 lead at halftime. In the second half, Cowley led by as many as 10 points before the Cardinals battled back. TVCC took their first lead of the half with 10:10 left at 43-42. TVCC was up by as many as eight points before Cowley brought it back to within a point with 90 seconds left in the game. MJ Wardlow go the bucket and the foul to put TVCC up by three with 36 seconds remaining.Tyler Smith and Cameron Williams led the way for the Cardinals. Smith was 5-of-13 from the floor to finish with 14 points, one rebound and one assist. Williams was 7-of-9 from the floor to finish with 14 points, seven rebounds and an assist. Garrett Nuckolls (Bullard) had nine points, four rebounds and three assists.Game 19 recap:The Angelina College Roadrunners’ season comes to an end on Wednesday night with a 79-70 loss to South Plains College in the quarterfinal round of the NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball tournament.South Plains outscored Angelina in the paint, 38-18.The Roadrunners went back and forth with the Texans in the first half and held a 36-33 lead at the halftime break. In the second half, Angelina led by seven points with 11 minutes to go in the game. Both teams continued trading buckets and trading the lead. With 7:10 remaining, South Plains went on an 11-0 scoring run to take a nine point lead and the Texans never surrendered the lead again.Leading the way for Angelina was Jordan Mathews with 16 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Kanaan Holder (Hudson) had 14 points and an assist.Game 20 recap:Waqo Tessema and the Panola College men’s basketball team picked a great night for a career-high scoring night and a season-high in 3-pointers made.Tessema scored a career-high 24 points, including seven 3-pointers; Travis Torain scored 16 points with four 3-pointers; and Khoi Thurmon had a double-double with 13 points and 12 assists as No. 6 seeded Panola hit a season-high 14 3-pointers in defeating No. 14 seeded Vincennes 75-67 in a NJCAA Division I quarterfinal matchup on Wednesday in Hutchinson, Kansas.Tessema connected on 7-of-14 from behind the 3-point line, and Torain hit 4-of-9 from beyond the arc.Sports headlines delivered to your inboxGet our free newsletterSubmitPanola (29-6), who on Tuesday defeated No. 11 Frank Phillips 60-53, started off strong building their lead to as many as nine points early in the game.Vincennes (28-5) battled back to give Panola their first deficit in the tournament by taking a five-point lead late in the first half behind the hot shooting of Travelle Bryson.But Panola didn’t let the deficit deter them as the Ponies tied the Trail Blazers 40-40 going to the half.Behind four quick Worsham points, Panola took a 44-40 lead and the Ponies staved off the Trail Blazers the rest of the game.Vincennes, who defeated No. 3 seeded Indian Wells 85-71 on Monday, had trouble scoring from the outside in the second half as Panola completely shut down Bryson in the second half.Bryson —&nbsp;who scored 17 points in the first half, including five 3-pointers —&nbsp;ended up going scoreless in the second half.Panola stayed even keel from beyond the arc as the Ponies hit seven 3s in the first half and seven 3s in the second half.The Ponies built their lead to as many as 11 in the second half before the Trail Blazers cut the deficit down to as little as four points.LeBron Thomas and Bryson each scored 17 points for Vincennes as Thomas added six rebounds and seven assists.Bryan Akanmu scored 10 points with six rebounds and five assists for the Trail Blazers.After Panola’s lead was cut to four at 67-63, Torain hit back-to-back 3s that stretched the Ponies’ lead back to double digits with 2:28 left in the game.Enel St. Bernard scored four points and added seven rebounds and three block, and Benicio Leons added six rebounds and a pair of steals for the Ponies.Panola will face a very familiar opponent in the semifinals: None other than Trinity Valley. The No. 7-seeded Cardinals defeated No. 2 seed Cowley 61-60 in another quarterfinal matchup.This will be the fourth time these two Region XIV Conference rivals will have squared off this season.Panola has taken two out of the three matchups against Trinity Valley, including a 67-59 victory in the Region XIV Tournament championship back on March 15.

🏀 NJCAA Tournament: Day 5 schedule & results

Claudia Jean Dick, age 77, of South Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. &nbsp;She was born on September 25, 1947, in Hutchinson, Kansas to Georgianna Windholz Leiker and Victor Anthony Leiker.

Claudia was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and sister, who lived her life with kindness and love. She married Robert Dick Sr. on June 26, 1965, and together they raised two sons. She is survived by Robert Dick Sr., Robert Dick Jr. (Nancy), Larry Dick, grandchildren James Eno (Jessica), Olivia Eno, Vanessa Eno, Atticus Eno, Brandy Dick, Daniel Dick, brothers-in-laws Jim Dick and Jim Cunningham and many nephews and nieces. &nbsp;She is preceded in death by parents Georgianna and Victor Leiker and sister Lila Cunningham.

Claudia was a long-time resident at Mennonite Manor in South Hutchinson, Kansas. &nbsp;

Rosary will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday, April 3, 2025. &nbsp;Funeral Liturgy will be at 10:30 a.m., both at Elliott Mortuary. &nbsp;Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson, Kansas. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc0MjkyNzQwMzM1NTYxMiZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==">Click here to view Claudia's Rosary and Funeral Liturgy.</a>

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Mennonite Friendship Communities, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743036030316.jpeg" alt="Claudia Jean Dick 1947-2025" />
 <figcaption>Claudia Jean Dick 1947-2025</figcaption>
 </figure>In Loving Memory of Claudia Jean DickClaudia Jean Dick, age 77, of South Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. &nbsp;She was born on September 25, 1947, in Hutchinson, Kansas to Georgianna Windholz Leiker and Victor Anthony Leiker.Claudia was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and sister, who lived her life with kindness and love. She married Robert Dick Sr. on June 26, 1965, and together they raised two sons. She is survived by Robert Dick Sr., Robert Dick Jr. (Nancy), Larry Dick, grandchildren James Eno (Jessica), Olivia Eno, Vanessa Eno, Atticus Eno, Brandy Dick, Daniel Dick, brothers-in-laws Jim Dick and Jim Cunningham and many nephews and nieces. &nbsp;She is preceded in death by parents Georgianna and Victor Leiker and sister Lila Cunningham.Claudia was a long-time resident at Mennonite Manor in South Hutchinson, Kansas. &nbsp;Rosary will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday, April 3, 2025. &nbsp;Funeral Liturgy will be at 10:30 a.m., both at Elliott Mortuary. &nbsp;Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson, Kansas. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc0MjkyNzQwMzM1NTYxMiZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==">Click here to view Claudia's Rosary and Funeral Liturgy.</a>In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Mennonite Friendship Communities, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.

Claudia Jean Dick | 1947 - 2025 |

Dillons is hosting a Community Day meal packing event at the NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship in Hutchinson to benefit the Food Bank of Reno County and our local neighbors in need.&nbsp;

The event will be held on Wednesday, March 26, beginning at 12 p.m. on the west side of the Sports Arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We will be packing 2,500 meals in the form of 500 family meal kits. The kit includes all the ingredients and recipe for a BBQ Chicken Bowl.&nbsp; Everything is shelf-stable and will be packed by volunteers into small boxes for distribution by the Food Bank of Reno County.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Basketball fans and volunteers are encouraged to visit the west entrance of the Hutchinson Sports Arena during the event to help pack a meal kit.&nbsp; Whether participants can give a little or a lot of time, together we can make a huge impact.&nbsp;

&nbsp;This Community Day meal packing event and donation is part of Dillon’s commitment to&nbsp;Care for Our Communities&nbsp;through our Zero Hunger - Zero Waste plan. &nbsp;Food is at the heart of every community and so is Dillons.&nbsp;

More on Zero Hunger | Zero Waste:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hunger is a problem that touches every community in America… and right here in Kansas. &nbsp;One in eight people in Kansas and one in five children will go to bed hungry, nearly 40-percent of the food we produce across the country is discarded in a landfill. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742610257315.png" alt="Dillons Pack a Meal" />
 <figcaption>Dillons Pack a Meal</figcaption>
 </figure>Dillons is hosting a Community Day meal packing event at the NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship in Hutchinson to benefit the Food Bank of Reno County and our local neighbors in need.&nbsp;The event will be held on Wednesday, March 26, beginning at 12 p.m. on the west side of the Sports Arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;We will be packing 2,500 meals in the form of 500 family meal kits. The kit includes all the ingredients and recipe for a BBQ Chicken Bowl.&nbsp; Everything is shelf-stable and will be packed by volunteers into small boxes for distribution by the Food Bank of Reno County.&nbsp;&nbsp;Basketball fans and volunteers are encouraged to visit the west entrance of the Hutchinson Sports Arena during the event to help pack a meal kit.&nbsp; Whether participants can give a little or a lot of time, together we can make a huge impact.&nbsp;&nbsp;This Community Day meal packing event and donation is part of Dillon’s commitment to&nbsp;Care for Our Communities&nbsp;through our Zero Hunger - Zero Waste plan. &nbsp;Food is at the heart of every community and so is Dillons.&nbsp;More on Zero Hunger | Zero Waste:&nbsp;&nbsp;Hunger is a problem that touches every community in America… and right here in Kansas. &nbsp;One in eight people in Kansas and one in five children will go to bed hungry, nearly 40-percent of the food we produce across the country is discarded in a landfill. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dillons to hold meal packing event at NJCAA tournament 

Sharon Lee Johnson, 61, died March 21, 2025, at her home in Hutchinson. She was born December 26, 1963, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Gerald C. and Shirley Ann (Gordon) Riemann.

Sharon graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1982 and then went on to attend Hutchinson Community College. She worked as a home health aide in Hutchinson.

Sharon enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and camping. She enjoyed her Saturday mornings going to garage sales. Not only was she a caregiver in her career but also when it came to animals. She would often care for and feed any stray cat or dog that she came across, as well as her own dog, Copper. Sharon cherished the moments spent with her dad going to K-State football games together. Nothing in life compared to the love she had for her grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Sharon was a member of First Church of God in Hutchinson and a very active member of Kairo’s Prison Ministry International.

On June 2, 1984, she married Robert Lee Johnson, in Hutchinson. They shared over 41 years of marriage. He survives.

Sharon is also survived by: her children, Amanda Johnson (John Metcalfe) of Hutchinson, KS, Curtis (Alexandria) Johnson of Wichita, KS, and a bonus daughter, Kristi Galindo of Hutchinson, KS; father, Gerald Riemann of Hutchinson, KS; siblings, Gene (Cheryl) Riemann of South Hutchinson, KS, Debi Kruetzer of Hutchinson, KS, Pam (Rayme) Collins of Olathe, KS, and bonus brother, Roger Tremblay of Austin, TX; grandchildren, Octavion Johnson, Adisson Johnson, Kingston Metcalfe, and Khalil Metcalfe; numerous nieces, nephews, close friends, and her Kairo’s family.

Sharon was preceded in death by: her mother, Shirley; brother, Alan Curtis Riemann; a granddaughter; and her beloved dog, Copper.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at First Church of God, 704 N. Jefferson, Hutchinson, with Pastor Glenn Koster, Sr. officiating. Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary. Family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, March 31, 2025, at Elliott Chapel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742940133140.jpeg" alt="Sharon Lee Johnson 1963-2025" />
 <figcaption>Sharon Lee Johnson 1963-2025</figcaption>
 </figure>Sharon Lee Johnson, 61, died March 21, 2025, at her home in Hutchinson. She was born December 26, 1963, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Gerald C. and Shirley Ann (Gordon) Riemann.Sharon graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1982 and then went on to attend Hutchinson Community College. She worked as a home health aide in Hutchinson.Sharon enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and camping. She enjoyed her Saturday mornings going to garage sales. Not only was she a caregiver in her career but also when it came to animals. She would often care for and feed any stray cat or dog that she came across, as well as her own dog, Copper. Sharon cherished the moments spent with her dad going to K-State football games together. Nothing in life compared to the love she had for her grandchildren, who were the light of her life.Sharon was a member of First Church of God in Hutchinson and a very active member of Kairo’s Prison Ministry International.On June 2, 1984, she married Robert Lee Johnson, in Hutchinson. They shared over 41 years of marriage. He survives.Sharon is also survived by: her children, Amanda Johnson (John Metcalfe) of Hutchinson, KS, Curtis (Alexandria) Johnson of Wichita, KS, and a bonus daughter, Kristi Galindo of Hutchinson, KS; father, Gerald Riemann of Hutchinson, KS; siblings, Gene (Cheryl) Riemann of South Hutchinson, KS, Debi Kruetzer of Hutchinson, KS, Pam (Rayme) Collins of Olathe, KS, and bonus brother, Roger Tremblay of Austin, TX; grandchildren, Octavion Johnson, Adisson Johnson, Kingston Metcalfe, and Khalil Metcalfe; numerous nieces, nephews, close friends, and her Kairo’s family.Sharon was preceded in death by: her mother, Shirley; brother, Alan Curtis Riemann; a granddaughter; and her beloved dog, Copper.Cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at First Church of God, 704 N. Jefferson, Hutchinson, with Pastor Glenn Koster, Sr. officiating. Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary. Family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, March 31, 2025, at Elliott Chapel.

Sharon Lee Johnson  | 1963 - 2025 | Obituary

TAYA WILSON Sterling College Sports Information&nbsp;

Sterling, Kan. - Life consists of many milestones, from the first day of kindergarten, to graduating high school, to your first job, life is full of milestones that many people collectively share. But in the world of collegiate basketball, one milestone stands above the rest, the 1,000-point club.

This milestone is sought by many and achieved by only a select few who fight through the grind, persevere through hardship, and put in the work.

This season, Sterling College celebrated three athletes who achieved this milestone all coming from Kansas Junior College’s and all finding their own niche in the Warrior family.

On the men’s side, both Emmanuel “Mooch” Austin and Jayden Garrison were able to achieve this breakthrough while Alissa Heskamp made the same achievement on the women’s side of the court.

Austin, who hails from Orange County, Calif., started his playing career at Cowley College where he scored 262 of his 1,000 points. It was here that Warrior’s head coach Randy Stange and assistant coach Jack Shields noticed his ability to get the job done.

“Coach Jack hit my phone about a week after the season ended saying that he had some opportunities for me to continue playing and then shortly after that Coach Stange hit my phone saying the same thing,” Austin said. “They were really excited about me because the previous point guard had graduated and they thought it was a great opportunity for me to get into their system.”

The system worked out well for both Austin and the Warrior’s basketball program as he racked up 867 points over the past two seasons.

“Our best game is when he (Austin) has five or six assists and others are involved,” Stange said. “His ability to get to the basket is unmatched. I don’t think there’s been anyone that we’ve played where it hasn’t taken more than one guy to stop him.”

Austin scored his landmark 1,000 career point in a 29-point game against Friends University on Feb. 13, 2025 but the milestone was never on his mind.

“When I transferred here, I wasn’t really thinking about scoring 1,000 points I didn’t think I could get it, honestly,” he said. “So, for me to hit 1,000 points, it really means a lot.”

The senior realizes that none of it would have been possible without his “band of brothers” around him.

“We just have a lot of off the court bonding,” Austin said. “Don’t get me wrong, there’s always going to be ups and downs, but what brings us together as far as being a ‘brothership’ is a focus on family and the stuff we do off the court.”

One of his brothers on the court also reached the 1,000-point milestone in the same season. Garrison, a Little River, Kan. native, transferred to Sterling from Hutchinson Community College where he racked up 459 points throughout his career.

“Jayden, he’s more of a shooter,” Stange said. “He’s got to be able to utilize screens and move without the ball. Jayden shorts really deep and he’s one of those guys that when he’s on he’s as good as anybody in our league, and our league is one of the best in the country. So, you have to say he’s as good as anybody in the country.”

While at Sterling, Garrison averaged shooting an incredible 34% from beyond the three-point line and accumulated 746 points as a Warrior. His 1,000 points came earlier in the season on Jan. 8 in the game against Friends University where he scored 12 points.

“Without God all of my athletic achievements throughout the years would not have been possible,” Garrison said. “I was blessed with an ability to play the game I love at a high level for many years. I am very grateful and thankful for this accomplishment.”

Coach Stange realizes the importance both of these players have been to Sterling’s team over the past two years.

“I’ve been proud of their effort all year. It was a difficult stretch for both of those guys at different times. I’m proud of their heart, proud of what they’ve done and proud of how tough they are,” Stange said. “They both have been great and we’re going to miss them. It’s going to be very hard to replace both of them.”

On the women’s side, Heskamp had been the extra “oomph” the Lady Warriors have needed, especially in their post-season push, which led to a KCAC tournament championship. However, collegiate basketball wasn’t in the picture when she finished her time at Barton Community College.

“I wasn’t sure I wanted to continue playing basketball, but Coach (K.C.) Bassett and her coaching staff told me they would help me find joy in playing the game again,” Heskamp said. “I think that was one of the biggest things that made me decide to come to Sterling.”

At Barton Community College, Heskamp amounted 364 points before coming to Sterling. Her grit and determination is what helped her rise above and become a staple in the Lady Warrior’s offense.

“There’s just a toughness to her that I absolutely love and she’s really helped transform this team, especially to make this late push that we’ve been able to have this season,” head coach K.C. Bassett said.

Heskamp scored her 1,000-career point on Jan. 25 against Evangel University where she scored 21 points in the Warrior’s 83-82 victory, and ended her Lady Warrior career with 792 points.

“Reaching 1,000 points in my college basketball career was something I never thought would happen,” Heskamp said. “This means a lot for me, as a once little girl that first picked up a basketball and fell in love with the game. It means even more now because I wanted to give up on my dreams multiple times throughout my college career. This has shown me that perseverance and hard work through all my struggles has made me proud for never giving up on my dream.”

She also realizes that none of this would have been possible apart from her Lady Warrior “family.”

“The biggest thing I love about the Sterling College women’s basketball program has been the culture Coach Bassett has created. Last year she told us that F.A.M.I.L.Y stood for ‘Forget About Me, I Love You’ and I think it is something that this program really goes by,” Heskamp said. “The girls are my best friends and they have helped me enjoy the game which was my biggest goal when I chose to keep playing.”

Not only has the the Lady Warrior basketball team had a big impact on her life, but she’s had a big impact on the program.

“She just speaks through actions. Alissa is one of the most hard-nosed players, but it’s also been cool to see her come out of her shell over the past two years,” Coach Bassett said. “Personally, seeing her evolve and grow and love on the girls around her has been awesome.”

Both Coach Bassett and Coach Stange have enjoyed the benefits that Junior College athletes bring when transferring to Sterling College. From the impact they make in the game, to the relationships they create off the court, these students make a big difference in the program.

“I’m just trying to get the best players I can to get the best team I can,” Coach Stange said. “My experience with JUCO guys is that they’re good, but they’re really good the second semester of the second year. They’ve figured out the system, they know what to expect, and they’re athletic ability and basketball IQ has grown tremendously.”

Bassett has seen the same thing on the women’s side.

“It’s hard for a guard to come in their junior year and be part of a different system for the third time, but once they get their feet underneath them, they really thrive,” she said.

There’s something to be said for an experienced junior college athlete’s ability to help develop the younger athletes while also benefitting from the atmosphere of a four-year culture. It’s the mixture that allows Sterling College’s programs to thrive.

Both coaches are looking for the same thing: buy in. They want their athletes to have a passion for the game while also building a “family” that allows them to thrive in the Warrior family. It’s all part of the tradition of excellence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742915724744.jpeg" alt="Jayden Garrison (photo courtesy Sterling College)" />
 <figcaption>Jayden Garrison (photo courtesy Sterling College)</figcaption>
 </figure>TAYA WILSON Sterling College Sports Information&nbsp;Sterling, Kan. - Life consists of many milestones, from the first day of kindergarten, to graduating high school, to your first job, life is full of milestones that many people collectively share. But in the world of collegiate basketball, one milestone stands above the rest, the 1,000-point club.This milestone is sought by many and achieved by only a select few who fight through the grind, persevere through hardship, and put in the work.This season, Sterling College celebrated three athletes who achieved this milestone all coming from Kansas Junior College’s and all finding their own niche in the Warrior family.On the men’s side, both Emmanuel “Mooch” Austin and Jayden Garrison were able to achieve this breakthrough while Alissa Heskamp made the same achievement on the women’s side of the court.Austin, who hails from Orange County, Calif., started his playing career at Cowley College where he scored 262 of his 1,000 points. It was here that Warrior’s head coach Randy Stange and assistant coach Jack Shields noticed his ability to get the job done.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742915858135.jpeg" alt="Emmanuel Austin (photo courtesy Sterling College) " />
 <figcaption>Emmanuel Austin (photo courtesy Sterling College) </figcaption>
 </figure>“Coach Jack hit my phone about a week after the season ended saying that he had some opportunities for me to continue playing and then shortly after that Coach Stange hit my phone saying the same thing,” Austin said. “They were really excited about me because the previous point guard had graduated and they thought it was a great opportunity for me to get into their system.”The system worked out well for both Austin and the Warrior’s basketball program as he racked up 867 points over the past two seasons.“Our best game is when he (Austin) has five or six assists and others are involved,” Stange said. “His ability to get to the basket is unmatched. I don’t think there’s been anyone that we’ve played where it hasn’t taken more than one guy to stop him.”Austin scored his landmark 1,000 career point in a 29-point game against Friends University on Feb. 13, 2025 but the milestone was never on his mind.“When I transferred here, I wasn’t really thinking about scoring 1,000 points I didn’t think I could get it, honestly,” he said. “So, for me to hit 1,000 points, it really means a lot.”The senior realizes that none of it would have been possible without his “band of brothers” around him.“We just have a lot of off the court bonding,” Austin said. “Don’t get me wrong, there’s always going to be ups and downs, but what brings us together as far as being a ‘brothership’ is a focus on family and the stuff we do off the court.”One of his brothers on the court also reached the 1,000-point milestone in the same season. Garrison, a Little River, Kan. native, transferred to Sterling from Hutchinson Community College where he racked up 459 points throughout his career.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742915419797.jpeg" alt="Jayden Garrison (photo courtesy Sterling College)" />
 <figcaption>Jayden Garrison (photo courtesy Sterling College)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Jayden, he’s more of a shooter,” Stange said. “He’s got to be able to utilize screens and move without the ball. Jayden shorts really deep and he’s one of those guys that when he’s on he’s as good as anybody in our league, and our league is one of the best in the country. So, you have to say he’s as good as anybody in the country.”While at Sterling, Garrison averaged shooting an incredible 34% from beyond the three-point line and accumulated 746 points as a Warrior. His 1,000 points came earlier in the season on Jan. 8 in the game against Friends University where he scored 12 points.“Without God all of my athletic achievements throughout the years would not have been possible,” Garrison said. “I was blessed with an ability to play the game I love at a high level for many years. I am very grateful and thankful for this accomplishment.”Coach Stange realizes the importance both of these players have been to Sterling’s team over the past two years.“I’ve been proud of their effort all year. It was a difficult stretch for both of those guys at different times. I’m proud of their heart, proud of what they’ve done and proud of how tough they are,” Stange said. “They both have been great and we’re going to miss them. It’s going to be very hard to replace both of them.”On the women’s side, Heskamp had been the extra “oomph” the Lady Warriors have needed, especially in their post-season push, which led to a KCAC tournament championship. However, collegiate basketball wasn’t in the picture when she finished her time at Barton Community College.“I wasn’t sure I wanted to continue playing basketball, but Coach (K.C.) Bassett and her coaching staff told me they would help me find joy in playing the game again,” Heskamp said. “I think that was one of the biggest things that made me decide to come to Sterling.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742915912262.jpeg" alt="Alissa Heskamp (photo courtesy Sterling College) " />
 <figcaption>Alissa Heskamp (photo courtesy Sterling College) </figcaption>
 </figure>At Barton Community College, Heskamp amounted 364 points before coming to Sterling. Her grit and determination is what helped her rise above and become a staple in the Lady Warrior’s offense.“There’s just a toughness to her that I absolutely love and she’s really helped transform this team, especially to make this late push that we’ve been able to have this season,” head coach K.C. Bassett said.Heskamp scored her 1,000-career point on Jan. 25 against Evangel University where she scored 21 points in the Warrior’s 83-82 victory, and ended her Lady Warrior career with 792 points.“Reaching 1,000 points in my college basketball career was something I never thought would happen,” Heskamp said. “This means a lot for me, as a once little girl that first picked up a basketball and fell in love with the game. It means even more now because I wanted to give up on my dreams multiple times throughout my college career. This has shown me that perseverance and hard work through all my struggles has made me proud for never giving up on my dream.”She also realizes that none of this would have been possible apart from her Lady Warrior “family.”“The biggest thing I love about the Sterling College women’s basketball program has been the culture Coach Bassett has created. Last year she told us that F.A.M.I.L.Y stood for ‘Forget About Me, I Love You’ and I think it is something that this program really goes by,” Heskamp said. “The girls are my best friends and they have helped me enjoy the game which was my biggest goal when I chose to keep playing.”Not only has the the Lady Warrior basketball team had a big impact on her life, but she’s had a big impact on the program.“She just speaks through actions. Alissa is one of the most hard-nosed players, but it’s also been cool to see her come out of her shell over the past two years,” Coach Bassett said. “Personally, seeing her evolve and grow and love on the girls around her has been awesome.”Both Coach Bassett and Coach Stange have enjoyed the benefits that Junior College athletes bring when transferring to Sterling College. From the impact they make in the game, to the relationships they create off the court, these students make a big difference in the program.“I’m just trying to get the best players I can to get the best team I can,” Coach Stange said. “My experience with JUCO guys is that they’re good, but they’re really good the second semester of the second year. They’ve figured out the system, they know what to expect, and they’re athletic ability and basketball IQ has grown tremendously.”Bassett has seen the same thing on the women’s side.“It’s hard for a guard to come in their junior year and be part of a different system for the third time, but once they get their feet underneath them, they really thrive,” she said.There’s something to be said for an experienced junior college athlete’s ability to help develop the younger athletes while also benefitting from the atmosphere of a four-year culture. It’s the mixture that allows Sterling College’s programs to thrive.Both coaches are looking for the same thing: buy in. They want their athletes to have a passion for the game while also building a “family” that allows them to thrive in the Warrior family. It’s all part of the tradition of excellence.

From Kansas JUCOs to 1,000 points: three Warriors achieve major milestone at Sterling College

RENO COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Monday.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Dodge Dakota driven by Preston Lee&nbsp;Lewis, 37, Hutchinson, was westbound on 17th Avenue a quarter mile East of Faubian Street.

The pickup crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2023 Buick Envision driven by Helen I.&nbsp;Blevins, 61, Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Blevins was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Elliott Mortuary. EMS transported Lewis and a passenger in the SUV identified as Stephanie Paige&nbsp;Blevins, 29, Hutchinson, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Lewis was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559617385052.png" alt="fatal accident" />
 <figcaption>fatal accident</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Monday.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Dodge Dakota driven by Preston Lee&nbsp;Lewis, 37, Hutchinson, was westbound on 17th Avenue a quarter mile East of Faubian Street.The pickup crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2023 Buick Envision driven by Helen I.&nbsp;Blevins, 61, Hutchinson.&nbsp;Blevins was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Elliott Mortuary. EMS transported Lewis and a passenger in the SUV identified as Stephanie Paige&nbsp;Blevins, 29, Hutchinson, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Lewis was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Hutchinson woman dies after pickup, SUV crash

TOPEKA, KAN. - The Kansas Chamber on Friday announced Lowen Corporation is the Chamber’s 2025 Ad Astra Award honoree.

Each year during its annual dinner, the Chamber and its members recognize a Kansas company with the Ad Astra Award. The award recognizes a Kansas business for its unique contributions to the economic health and welfare of the state. This honor is presented to a business that exemplifies both business and civic excellence within the state.

"For 75 years, Lowen Corporation and its dedicated employees have been at the forefront of the signage and graphics industry, driving innovation and embodying the entrepreneurial spirit of Kansas," said Alan Cobb, President and CEO of the Kansas Chamber. "As a family-owned and managed company, Lowen continues to be a national leader, operating one of the largest wide and large-format digital and screen-printing facilities in the country." The Kansas Chamber and its members are happy to recognize Lowen Corporation and its employees for their contributions to Kansas with the 2025 Ad Astra Award.”

Lowen Corporation is a world-class provider of graphic solutions for branding, advertising, information and display, serving the most recognized commercial brands within its major operating divisions. Family owned and operated for over seven decades, Lowen has built a reputation for dependability, quality of the highest standard and superior value for their customers.

It was 1950 when C.W. “Mike” Lowen began to build a company around his passion for hand-painting quality signs and graphics. Today Lowen Corporation is comprised of multiple divisions occupying over 325,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing and operational space. Lowen is a leader in the signage and graphics industry specializing in production of real estate signage, fleet and vehicle graphics, equipment graphics and decals and installation services.

As Lowen looks to the future, they are committed to growing, evolving, and giving back. They proudly support local and state initiatives, including: · The Kansas State Fair, HutchFest, and numerous local events. · Hutchinson Community College and local school districts. · The Reno County Cancer Council, TECH, Inc., and youth sports programs. · Statewide initiatives like the Making Kansas Bus Tour · American Trucking Association’s Fentanyl Awareness Truck Wrap Campaign, and the Share The Road and Workforce Heroes Campaigns.

“This recognition is about more than just our company—it’s about the hardworking people who have been part of our journey, the Kansas business community that continually pushes forward, and the resilience that defines our state. As the name of this award reminds us: To the Stars.” said Matt Lowen, CEO." We are proud to be a locally owned Kansas company, and we look forward to reaching even greater heights together."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742855180411.jpeg" alt="Lowen Headquarters - Photo courtesy Lowen Corporation" />
 <figcaption>Lowen Headquarters - Photo courtesy Lowen Corporation</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CHAMBER&nbsp;TOPEKA, KAN. - The Kansas Chamber on Friday announced Lowen Corporation is the Chamber’s 2025 Ad Astra Award honoree.Each year during its annual dinner, the Chamber and its members recognize a Kansas company with the Ad Astra Award. The award recognizes a Kansas business for its unique contributions to the economic health and welfare of the state. This honor is presented to a business that exemplifies both business and civic excellence within the state.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742852002741.png" alt="Lowen Logo" />
 <figcaption>Lowen Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>"For 75 years, Lowen Corporation and its dedicated employees have been at the forefront of the signage and graphics industry, driving innovation and embodying the entrepreneurial spirit of Kansas," said Alan Cobb, President and CEO of the Kansas Chamber. "As a family-owned and managed company, Lowen continues to be a national leader, operating one of the largest wide and large-format digital and screen-printing facilities in the country." The Kansas Chamber and its members are happy to recognize Lowen Corporation and its employees for their contributions to Kansas with the 2025 Ad Astra Award.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742851957695.png" alt="Kansas Chamber" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Chamber</figcaption>
 </figure>Lowen Corporation is a world-class provider of graphic solutions for branding, advertising, information and display, serving the most recognized commercial brands within its major operating divisions. Family owned and operated for over seven decades, Lowen has built a reputation for dependability, quality of the highest standard and superior value for their customers.It was 1950 when C.W. “Mike” Lowen began to build a company around his passion for hand-painting quality signs and graphics. Today Lowen Corporation is comprised of multiple divisions occupying over 325,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing and operational space. Lowen is a leader in the signage and graphics industry specializing in production of real estate signage, fleet and vehicle graphics, equipment graphics and decals and installation services.As Lowen looks to the future, they are committed to growing, evolving, and giving back. They proudly support local and state initiatives, including: · The Kansas State Fair, HutchFest, and numerous local events. · Hutchinson Community College and local school districts. · The Reno County Cancer Council, TECH, Inc., and youth sports programs. · Statewide initiatives like the Making Kansas Bus Tour · American Trucking Association’s Fentanyl Awareness Truck Wrap Campaign, and the Share The Road and Workforce Heroes Campaigns.“This recognition is about more than just our company—it’s about the hardworking people who have been part of our journey, the Kansas business community that continually pushes forward, and the resilience that defines our state. As the name of this award reminds us: To the Stars.” said Matt Lowen, CEO." We are proud to be a locally owned Kansas company, and we look forward to reaching even greater heights together."

Hutchinson's Lowen Corporation named Kansas Chamber's 2025 Ad Astra Award honoree

Hutchinson Mayor Stacy Goss was in to visit on the BW Morning Show, she talked about the project that began on Monday in northern Hutchinson, 30th Avenue between Main Street and Adams Street. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“So that is something that was requested in the budget in, I want to say 2023 and then it got moved. Something else swooped in and took its place”, said Goss. &nbsp;

This is more than just a repaving project, as she discussed. &nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/b8272e6f-e991-4aa0-9af5-9a603b781255">LINK:&nbsp; BW Morning Show Interview: Stacy Goss, Hutchinson Mayor</a>

“So not only are we improving the surface of the road, but there's also some critical infrastructure underneath that we will be taking a look at. And then from there, the surface level improvements that people will see, some lane changes, a biking walking path on the north side, and then, of course, resurfacing that whole spot” she added. &nbsp;

The detour route is to go down to 17th Avenue and across to Adams or Main depending on which way you are headed. &nbsp;The mayor explained by the detour goes down to 17th Avenue. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729097400973.jpeg" alt="Stacy Goss (file photo)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Goss (file photo)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Mayor Stacy Goss was in to visit on the BW Morning Show, she talked about the project that began on Monday in northern Hutchinson, 30th Avenue between Main Street and Adams Street. &nbsp;&nbsp;“So that is something that was requested in the budget in, I want to say 2023 and then it got moved. Something else swooped in and took its place”, said Goss. &nbsp;This is more than just a repaving project, as she discussed. &nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/b8272e6f-e991-4aa0-9af5-9a603b781255">LINK:&nbsp; BW Morning Show Interview: Stacy Goss, Hutchinson Mayor</a>“So not only are we improving the surface of the road, but there's also some critical infrastructure underneath that we will be taking a look at. And then from there, the surface level improvements that people will see, some lane changes, a biking walking path on the north side, and then, of course, resurfacing that whole spot” she added. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742840658183.jpeg" alt="30th construction detour map. - City of Hutchinson " />
 <figcaption>30th construction detour map. - City of Hutchinson </figcaption>
 </figure>The detour route is to go down to 17th Avenue and across to Adams or Main depending on which way you are headed. &nbsp;The mayor explained by the detour goes down to 17th Avenue. &nbsp;So we follow Kansas Department of Transportation guidelines when creating a detour. So that's the detour for truck traffic. If you're just a regular Joe trying to get across town, you can cut through town a number of different ways, obviously, but that is the truck traffic route.&nbsp;The project along 30th Avenue is expected to take approximately seven weeks to complete.