The Jayhawk West champion Hutchinson Community College baseball team begins Phase 2 of the 2024 postseason Wednesday when the Blue Dragons open the Plains District (Region 6) Tournament with a conference rival.

The No. 10-ranked Blue Dragons (46-11) will play Barton (39-19) at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Eck Stadium in Wichita in the second of four opening-round games of the first day of the tournament. Hutchinson is the tournament's No. 2 overall seed Barton is No. 10.

The Blue Dragons advanced to Wichita with a two-game sweep of Labette last week at Hobart-Detter Field. The Blue Dragons won 10-0 and 23-0, both five-inning run-rule games. Barton went on the road and sweep No. 7-seed Fort Scott, 12-0 and 19-7.

BLUE DRAGON BASEBALL No. 10 Hutchinson (46-11) vs. Barton (39-19) Plains District Tournament Opening Round When: Wednesday, May 15, 2024 Where: Eck Stadium, Wichita Time: 1:00 p.m. Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://kjccc.org/sports-network" target="_blank">KJCCC Network (pay-per-view), 12:55 p.m.</a> X: @bluedragonsport

Hutchinson clinched the 2024 Jayhawk Conference championship with a 7-2 win over Barton on April 24 in Game 1 of a four-game league series at Lawson-Biggs Field in Great Bend. The Blue Dragons won the series with the Cougars 3-1, sweeping the doubleheader at Hobart-Detter Field on April 26.

First-year Blue Dragon head coach Brock Nehls is the first Blue Dragon head coach to win 40 games in his first season and is the third head coach to win a conference championship in his first season joining Gene Torczon and Kyle Crookes.

The Blue Dragons are bidding for the program's fourth overall district/regional title in team history and the first since 2010.

The Hutchinson-Barton winner will meet the Dodge City/Cowley winner at 5 p.m. on Thursday. The losers of those games play in an elimination game at 10 a.m. on Thursday.

The other half of the bracket as No. 1 seed Johnson playing Butler at 4 p.m. and Kansas City playing Cloud County at 7 p.m.

All games of the Plains District Tournament will be streamed live by the KJCCC Network. All game will be pay-per-view.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715780510786.jpeg" alt="The No. 10-ranked Blue Dragon baseball team takes on the Barton Cougars at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Eck Stadium in Wichita in the opening round of the Plains District Tournament. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>The No. 10-ranked Blue Dragon baseball team takes on the Barton Cougars at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Eck Stadium in Wichita in the opening round of the Plains District Tournament. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe Jayhawk West champion Hutchinson Community College baseball team begins Phase 2 of the 2024 postseason Wednesday when the Blue Dragons open the Plains District (Region 6) Tournament with a conference rival.The No. 10-ranked Blue Dragons (46-11) will play Barton (39-19) at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Eck Stadium in Wichita in the second of four opening-round games of the first day of the tournament. Hutchinson is the tournament's No. 2 overall seed Barton is No. 10.The Blue Dragons advanced to Wichita with a two-game sweep of Labette last week at Hobart-Detter Field. The Blue Dragons won 10-0 and 23-0, both five-inning run-rule games. Barton went on the road and sweep No. 7-seed Fort Scott, 12-0 and 19-7.BLUE DRAGON BASEBALL No. 10 Hutchinson (46-11) vs. Barton (39-19) Plains District Tournament Opening Round When: Wednesday, May 15, 2024 Where: Eck Stadium, Wichita Time: 1:00 p.m. Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://kjccc.org/sports-network" target="_blank">KJCCC Network (pay-per-view), 12:55 p.m.</a> X: @bluedragonsportHutchinson clinched the 2024 Jayhawk Conference championship with a 7-2 win over Barton on April 24 in Game 1 of a four-game league series at Lawson-Biggs Field in Great Bend. The Blue Dragons won the series with the Cougars 3-1, sweeping the doubleheader at Hobart-Detter Field on April 26.First-year Blue Dragon head coach Brock Nehls is the first Blue Dragon head coach to win 40 games in his first season and is the third head coach to win a conference championship in his first season joining Gene Torczon and Kyle Crookes.The Blue Dragons are bidding for the program's fourth overall district/regional title in team history and the first since 2010.The Hutchinson-Barton winner will meet the Dodge City/Cowley winner at 5 p.m. on Thursday. The losers of those games play in an elimination game at 10 a.m. on Thursday.The other half of the bracket as No. 1 seed Johnson playing Butler at 4 p.m. and Kansas City playing Cloud County at 7 p.m.All games of the Plains District Tournament will be streamed live by the KJCCC Network. All game will be pay-per-view.

⚾ Blue Dragons open Plains District Tournament with Barton today

Hutchinson CC Sports Information<a href="https://results.golfstat.com/public/leaderboards/gsnav.cfm?pg=participants&amp;tid=29152" target="_blank"></a>

HOBBS, New Mexico – Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/box_charlie_jgcb">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;shot a 2-under 69 on Tuesday, but the No. 5-ranked Hutchinson Community College men's golf team finds itself in a bit of a hole after the opening round of the 2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championships at Rockwind Community Links.

The Blue Dragons are in a five-way tie for 10th place after 18 holes after shooting a nine-over-par 293. Hutchinson is tied with Central Alabama, Eastern Wyoming, Eastern Florida State and Odessa. That entire group is 14 shots off the pace of tournament team leader New Mexico Junior College , which shot a 4-under 280 on Tuesday.

The Blue Dragons will once again pair of Ranger College and Midland College for Wednesday's second round. Hutchinson's tee times range from 1 p.m. to 1:36 p.m.

Hutchinson got off to a good start with first-hold birdies from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/thissen_kenton_qoy2">Keaton Thissen</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/anderson_marco_qoi7">Marco Anderson</a>. Box, Thissen and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/razinskas_david_7wz3">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;added birdies over the next four holes and the Blue Dragons were at -3 through six holes. Over the next seven holes, though, the Dragons played that stretch in 9-over par to fall from the lead pack of teams. The Blue Dragons closed the round at 6-over par to close at 293.

BLUE DRAGON MEN'S GOLF NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championship Round 2 When: Wednesday, May 15, 2024 Where: Rockwind Community Links Live scoring:&nbsp;<a href="https://results.golfstat.com/public/leaderboards/gsnav.cfm?pg=participants&amp;tid=29152" target="_blank">GolfStat.com</a> Blue Dragon tee times: 1 to 1:36 p.m. CT.

The Blue Dragons counted scores from Box, who shot a 2-under 69, Anderson's 1-over 72, Thissen's 4-over 75 and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/ross_louis_dfpl">Louis Ross</a>' 6-over 77.

Box was at 1-over after a bogey on the seventh hole. He finished with birdies on Nos. 8, 13 and 14 and closed the round with four-straight pars to keep the Blue Dragons within striking distance. Box is the only Blue Dragon in the Top 10 individually after his 2-under-par round of 69.

Anderson was 3-over through 10 holes after three-straight birdies on Nos. 8, 9 and 10. The Blue Dragon sophomore had a couple of double bogeys, a bogey and birdie over the final eight holes and is tied for 24th at 1-over 72.

Thissen is tied for 58th 4-over 75. He carded two birdies, four bogeys and a double bogey.

Razinskas carded an 83 and is tied for 121st after 18 holes.

After New Mexico, Midland is second after Day 1, four strokes behind the Thunderbirds at 284. Ranger and Eastern Arizona are tied for third at 285.

Garden City's Jack Dyer is part of a four-way tie for first place in the individual standings after Day 1. Dyer, Indian Hills' Jose Carletta, New Mexico's Matt Walters and Eastern Arizona's Kendall McCain are tied at 4-under 67. Thirty-six players are within five strokes of the lead after the opening round.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715780331628.jpeg" alt="Charlie Box shoots a 2-under 69 to lead the Blue Dragon men's golf team on Day 1 of the NJCAA Division I National Tournament in Hobbs, NM. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Charlie Box shoots a 2-under 69 to lead the Blue Dragon men's golf team on Day 1 of the NJCAA Division I National Tournament in Hobbs, NM. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports Information<a href="https://results.golfstat.com/public/leaderboards/gsnav.cfm?pg=participants&amp;tid=29152" target="_blank"></a>HOBBS, New Mexico – Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/box_charlie_jgcb">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;shot a 2-under 69 on Tuesday, but the No. 5-ranked Hutchinson Community College men's golf team finds itself in a bit of a hole after the opening round of the 2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championships at Rockwind Community Links.The Blue Dragons are in a five-way tie for 10th place after 18 holes after shooting a nine-over-par 293. Hutchinson is tied with Central Alabama, Eastern Wyoming, Eastern Florida State and Odessa. That entire group is 14 shots off the pace of tournament team leader New Mexico Junior College , which shot a 4-under 280 on Tuesday.The Blue Dragons will once again pair of Ranger College and Midland College for Wednesday's second round. Hutchinson's tee times range from 1 p.m. to 1:36 p.m.Hutchinson got off to a good start with first-hold birdies from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/thissen_kenton_qoy2">Keaton Thissen</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/anderson_marco_qoi7">Marco Anderson</a>. Box, Thissen and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/razinskas_david_7wz3">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;added birdies over the next four holes and the Blue Dragons were at -3 through six holes. Over the next seven holes, though, the Dragons played that stretch in 9-over par to fall from the lead pack of teams. The Blue Dragons closed the round at 6-over par to close at 293.BLUE DRAGON MEN'S GOLF NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championship Round 2 When: Wednesday, May 15, 2024 Where: Rockwind Community Links Live scoring:&nbsp;<a href="https://results.golfstat.com/public/leaderboards/gsnav.cfm?pg=participants&amp;tid=29152" target="_blank">GolfStat.com</a> Blue Dragon tee times: 1 to 1:36 p.m. CT.The Blue Dragons counted scores from Box, who shot a 2-under 69, Anderson's 1-over 72, Thissen's 4-over 75 and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/ross_louis_dfpl">Louis Ross</a>' 6-over 77.Box was at 1-over after a bogey on the seventh hole. He finished with birdies on Nos. 8, 13 and 14 and closed the round with four-straight pars to keep the Blue Dragons within striking distance. Box is the only Blue Dragon in the Top 10 individually after his 2-under-par round of 69.Anderson was 3-over through 10 holes after three-straight birdies on Nos. 8, 9 and 10. The Blue Dragon sophomore had a couple of double bogeys, a bogey and birdie over the final eight holes and is tied for 24th at 1-over 72.Thissen is tied for 58th 4-over 75. He carded two birdies, four bogeys and a double bogey.Ross is tied for 89th at 6-over 77.Razinskas carded an 83 and is tied for 121st after 18 holes.After New Mexico, Midland is second after Day 1, four strokes behind the Thunderbirds at 284. Ranger and Eastern Arizona are tied for third at 285.Garden City's Jack Dyer is part of a four-way tie for first place in the individual standings after Day 1. Dyer, Indian Hills' Jose Carletta, New Mexico's Matt Walters and Eastern Arizona's Kendall McCain are tied at 4-under 67. Thirty-six players are within five strokes of the lead after the opening round.

⛳ Blue Dragons begin day 2 tied for 10th

Eight days after earning their first regional championship in 37 years, the Hutchinson Community College softball team learned its seed and opening-round opponent on Tuesday afternoon.

The Region 6 champion Blue Dragons earned the No. 15 overall seed in the 20-team double-elimination tournament and will play No. 19 seed and Region 2 champion Connors State.

The opening-round game will be played on Field 4 at 1 p.m. on Monday, May 20 at Choccolocco Park in Oxford, Alabama. The Hutchinson/Connors State winner will play No. 2-seed Indian River State at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21. The loser will play at 3 p.m. on Tuesday against the McLennan/Lake Land-Iowa Western loser.

The Blue Dragons won the Region VI title on May 6 in Dodge City, defeating the reigning regional champion Butler Grizzlies twice in the championship game 12-3 and 16-4 to win the program’s second overall regional championship and first since 1987, the second year of the program.

The 2024 Blue Dragons set a record for wins in a season with a 46-10 record. The Dragons have won

Hutchinson ranks fourth in the NJCAA in team batting average at .417 and sixth in total runs scored with 566.  The Blue Dragons also rank in the national Top 20 in pitching earned-run average at 2.78.

Jayhawk Conference Freshman of the Year Dakota Lake ranks 12th in the NJCAA with 200 strikeouts and is sixth in the nation in strikeouts per seven innings at 11.32.

Offensively, sophomore Jaeleigh Darnell is eighth in the nation in batting average at .515. Freshman Bailey Backhaus is 19th at .496 and is second in the nation in total hits with 102.

Connors State is 39-12 and defeated Eastern Oklahoma State in the second Region 2 championship game 7-2 to earn a berth in the tournament. The Cowgirls knocked off Region 2 favorite Seminole State 4-3 in the semifinals.

Connors State has a team batting average of .337 with 357 runs scored this season. The Cowgirls have hit 49 home runs. The pitching staff has a team ERA of 3.02.

McLennan College is the No. 1 overall seed for this year’s tournament. Indian River State is No. 2, followed by Northwest Florida State, defending national champion Florida Southwestern State and Temple College.

The Blue Dragons have won 13 of their last 14 and 26 of their last 29 games played.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714995854392.jpeg" alt="The Blue Dragons celebrate Alexis Mastin's two-run first-inning home run in Hutchinson's 12-3 victory over Butler in the first championship game of the Region 6 Tournament on Sunday in Dodge City. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>The Blue Dragons celebrate Alexis Mastin's two-run first-inning home run in Hutchinson's 12-3 victory over Butler in the first championship game of the Region 6 Tournament on Sunday in Dodge City. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationEight days after earning their first regional championship in 37 years, the Hutchinson Community College softball team learned its seed and opening-round opponent on Tuesday afternoon.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CGhJiBvFUW0?si=1evCfVrQ96OAUjF3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Region 6 champion Blue Dragons earned the No. 15 overall seed in the 20-team double-elimination tournament and will play No. 19 seed and Region 2 champion Connors State.The opening-round game will be played on Field 4 at 1 p.m. on Monday, May 20 at Choccolocco Park in Oxford, Alabama. The Hutchinson/Connors State winner will play No. 2-seed Indian River State at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21. The loser will play at 3 p.m. on Tuesday against the McLennan/Lake Land-Iowa Western loser.The Blue Dragons won the Region VI title on May 6 in Dodge City, defeating the reigning regional champion Butler Grizzlies twice in the championship game 12-3 and 16-4 to win the program’s second overall regional championship and first since 1987, the second year of the program.The 2024 Blue Dragons set a record for wins in a season with a 46-10 record. The Dragons have wonHutchinson ranks fourth in the NJCAA in team batting average at .417 and sixth in total runs scored with 566. The Blue Dragons also rank in the national Top 20 in pitching earned-run average at 2.78.Jayhawk Conference Freshman of the Year Dakota Lake ranks 12th in the NJCAA with 200 strikeouts and is sixth in the nation in strikeouts per seven innings at 11.32.Offensively, sophomore Jaeleigh Darnell is eighth in the nation in batting average at .515. Freshman Bailey Backhaus is 19th at .496 and is second in the nation in total hits with 102.Connors State is 39-12 and defeated Eastern Oklahoma State in the second Region 2 championship game 7-2 to earn a berth in the tournament. The Cowgirls knocked off Region 2 favorite Seminole State 4-3 in the semifinals.Connors State has a team batting average of .337 with 357 runs scored this season. The Cowgirls have hit 49 home runs. The pitching staff has a team ERA of 3.02.McLennan College is the No. 1 overall seed for this year’s tournament. Indian River State is No. 2, followed by Northwest Florida State, defending national champion Florida Southwestern State and Temple College.The Blue Dragons have won 13 of their last 14 and 26 of their last 29 games played.

🥎 Dragons match up with Connors State in NJCAA opener

Hutchinson Community College Athletic Director Josh Gooch announced on Monday the hiring of Kyle Fisher to be the next head coach of the Blue Dragon men's basketball program, pending board approval.

Fisher will become the 16th head coach in the history of the NJCAA's all-time winningest men's basketball program. He will be officially introduced at a news conference at noon on Wednesday, May 22, in the Hutchinson's Sports Arena's Multi-Purpose Room.

"Myself, my wife and our girls are beyond excited about getting to take over such a prestigious program like Hutchinson," Fisher said. "I have always admired the program and I look forward to getting to work to keep the Blue Dragons at the top of the junior college world."

Fisher is a veteran of the Jayhawk Conference coaching wars, first as an assistant at Coffeyville Community College and the last five seasons as the head men's basketball coach at Butler Community College.

"We are excited to welcome Coach Kyle Fisher as the Blue Dragons' next head basketball coach," Gooch said. "Coach Fisher's success in the NJCAA and KJCCC as an assistant coach and then as a head coach make him a great fit to lead the Blue Dragons.

"I look forward to welcoming his wife, Kathryn, and daughters, Grace and Rose, to the Hutchinson community and Blue Dragon Nation."

Over his five seasons as head coach at Butler, Fisher's teams posted an impressive 113-42 overall record.

Fisher's 2022-23 team went 26-9 and finished fourth in the KJCCC, but had a late-season surge that carried the Grizzlies to a Region 6 Tournament title and all the way to the NJCAA National Tournament Quarterfinals. His first team in 2019-20 finished 25-8 with a second-place finish in the KJCCC and a Region 6 Tournament runner-up finish.

Except for the Covid-affected season in 2020-21, Fisher's teams never won less than 23 games at Butler.

"The hard-nosed mentality and the grit my players have shown will always be a staple of my program," Fisher said. "We are going to recruit really good players who are good people. They are going to play hard and play for each other."

Before accepting the head coaching position at Butler, Fisher worked under Hall of Fame coach Jay Herkelman at Coffeyville.

Over his seven seasons with the Red Ravens, Fisher's time in Coffeyville helped produce a record of 179-55 and four trips to the national tournament - including three-straight national tournament appearances, along with a national semifinal finish in the 2018-19 season. Fisher was promoted to associate head coach with the Red Ravens before the 2017-18 season.

"With the experience and the success I have had in this league, that will put us in a good position to compete at a high level," Fisher said. "The Jayhawk Conference is unlike any other league in the country. I look forward to the challenge of representing our program and the community the right way."

Prior to Coffeyville, Fisher served as the top assistant at Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher, Arizona, for two seasons. Before Eastern Arizona, Fisher served two seasons as the top assistant at Southwestern Community College in Creston, Iowa. Fisher's first coaching position was serving as a graduate assistant for his alma mater, Washburn University in Topeka.

Fisher was a four-year member of Washburn's basketball team where he played for Hall of Fame coach Bob Chipman.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715633711136.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationHutchinson Community College Athletic Director Josh Gooch announced on Monday the hiring of Kyle Fisher to be the next head coach of the Blue Dragon men's basketball program, pending board approval.Fisher will become the 16th head coach in the history of the NJCAA's all-time winningest men's basketball program. He will be officially introduced at a news conference at noon on Wednesday, May 22, in the Hutchinson's Sports Arena's Multi-Purpose Room."Myself, my wife and our girls are beyond excited about getting to take over such a prestigious program like Hutchinson," Fisher said. "I have always admired the program and I look forward to getting to work to keep the Blue Dragons at the top of the junior college world."Fisher is a veteran of the Jayhawk Conference coaching wars, first as an assistant at Coffeyville Community College and the last five seasons as the head men's basketball coach at Butler Community College."We are excited to welcome Coach Kyle Fisher as the Blue Dragons' next head basketball coach," Gooch said. "Coach Fisher's success in the NJCAA and KJCCC as an assistant coach and then as a head coach make him a great fit to lead the Blue Dragons."I look forward to welcoming his wife, Kathryn, and daughters, Grace and Rose, to the Hutchinson community and Blue Dragon Nation."Over his five seasons as head coach at Butler, Fisher's teams posted an impressive 113-42 overall record.Fisher's 2022-23 team went 26-9 and finished fourth in the KJCCC, but had a late-season surge that carried the Grizzlies to a Region 6 Tournament title and all the way to the NJCAA National Tournament Quarterfinals. His first team in 2019-20 finished 25-8 with a second-place finish in the KJCCC and a Region 6 Tournament runner-up finish.Except for the Covid-affected season in 2020-21, Fisher's teams never won less than 23 games at Butler."The hard-nosed mentality and the grit my players have shown will always be a staple of my program," Fisher said. "We are going to recruit really good players who are good people. They are going to play hard and play for each other."Before accepting the head coaching position at Butler, Fisher worked under Hall of Fame coach Jay Herkelman at Coffeyville.Over his seven seasons with the Red Ravens, Fisher's time in Coffeyville helped produce a record of 179-55 and four trips to the national tournament - including three-straight national tournament appearances, along with a national semifinal finish in the 2018-19 season. Fisher was promoted to associate head coach with the Red Ravens before the 2017-18 season."With the experience and the success I have had in this league, that will put us in a good position to compete at a high level," Fisher said. "The Jayhawk Conference is unlike any other league in the country. I look forward to the challenge of representing our program and the community the right way."Prior to Coffeyville, Fisher served as the top assistant at Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher, Arizona, for two seasons. Before Eastern Arizona, Fisher served two seasons as the top assistant at Southwestern Community College in Creston, Iowa. Fisher's first coaching position was serving as a graduate assistant for his alma mater, Washburn University in Topeka.Fisher was a four-year member of Washburn's basketball team where he played for Hall of Fame coach Bob Chipman.

🏀 MBB: Fisher hired as HutchCC head coach

Viola Aldene (Thiessen) Neufeldt, 92, died Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Pleasant Hills, Hutchinson, Kansas. She was born August 19, 1931 to G.R. and Margaret (Esau) Thiessen. She attended West Eagle Grade School, a one-room schoolhouse, in rural Inman. After graduating from Buhler High School in 1949, she took her first teaching job in 1951 at West Kentucky in Lindsborg. Later, she got her degree in education from McPherson College, graduating in 1961. She taught in many McPherson County, Hutchinson and Inman schools. In 1996, she was inducted into the Kansas Teacher Hall of Fame in Dodge City before retiring in 1998.

She was a lifelong member of Zoar Mennonite Brethren Church in Inman and on May 28, 1953, married Eldon Neufeldt there. They were together 60 years, until his death, and had two daughters, Virginia (Mike) Philbrick of Inman, and Cheryl (Don, deceased) Carlson of Hutchinson. There are two grandchildren, Kathleen (James) Crawford of Hutchinson and Sean Philbrick of Wichita. There are also three great-granddaughters in Hutchinson.

She loved baking and her specialty was cinnamon rolls. She often made dozens of them for Dad to share with his co-workers in numerous manufacturing plants in McPherson. She also volunteered at the Et Cetera Shop in Hutchinson as a cashier. When she wasn’t working up front, she washed clothes and housewares in the back room. If Mom couldn’t get something clean, it couldn’t be done!

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 14, 2024 from 5-7pm at Zoar MB Church, Inman. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 15, at 10am, also at Zoar, with burial to follow at the North Inman Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Pleasant Hills or the Et Cetera Shop, in care of Buhler Mortuary, PO Box 589, Buhler, KS 67522.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715430012974.jpeg" alt="Viola Neufeldt" />
 <figcaption>Viola Neufeldt</figcaption>
 </figure>Viola Aldene (Thiessen) Neufeldt, 92, died Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Pleasant Hills, Hutchinson, Kansas. She was born August 19, 1931 to G.R. and Margaret (Esau) Thiessen. She attended West Eagle Grade School, a one-room schoolhouse, in rural Inman. After graduating from Buhler High School in 1949, she took her first teaching job in 1951 at West Kentucky in Lindsborg. Later, she got her degree in education from McPherson College, graduating in 1961. She taught in many McPherson County, Hutchinson and Inman schools. In 1996, she was inducted into the Kansas Teacher Hall of Fame in Dodge City before retiring in 1998.She was a lifelong member of Zoar Mennonite Brethren Church in Inman and on May 28, 1953, married Eldon Neufeldt there. They were together 60 years, until his death, and had two daughters, Virginia (Mike) Philbrick of Inman, and Cheryl (Don, deceased) Carlson of Hutchinson. There are two grandchildren, Kathleen (James) Crawford of Hutchinson and Sean Philbrick of Wichita. There are also three great-granddaughters in Hutchinson.She loved baking and her specialty was cinnamon rolls. She often made dozens of them for Dad to share with his co-workers in numerous manufacturing plants in McPherson. She also volunteered at the Et Cetera Shop in Hutchinson as a cashier. When she wasn’t working up front, she washed clothes and housewares in the back room. If Mom couldn’t get something clean, it couldn’t be done!Visitation will be Tuesday, May 14, 2024 from 5-7pm at Zoar MB Church, Inman. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 15, at 10am, also at Zoar, with burial to follow at the North Inman Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Pleasant Hills or the Et Cetera Shop, in care of Buhler Mortuary, PO Box 589, Buhler, KS 67522.

Viola Aldene (Thiessen) Neufeldt |1931-2024|

The No. 15-ranked Hutchinson Community College Baseball team racked up a season-high 23 runs to complete a sweep of the Labette Cardinals on Friday in the opening round of the Region VI Baseball Tournament at Hobart-Detter Field.

<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>&nbsp;went 4 for 4 and drove in three runs and four Blue Dragon pitchers combined on a five-hit shutout to defeat the Cardinals 23-0 in Game 2, winning the best-of-3 series 2-0.

The Jayhawk West champion and tournament No. 2-seeded Blue Dragons (46-11) advance to the eight-team double-elimination Plains District Tournament, which begins Wednesday at Eck Stadium in Wichita. The Blue Dragons will meet the Barton Cougars at 1 p.m.

This was the fourth time in 2024 the Blue Dragons have scored 20 or more runs in a game. The 23-run eruption tied for the eighth most in Hutchinson single-game history, matching a Region 6 game against Independence in 2016 and a regular-season battle against Dodge City in 2021.

The Blue Dragons had 18 hits, including two doubles, a triple and home run. Labette also added seven walks, seven errors, two balks, three hit batters and three wild pitches to the mix.

The Dragons also broke a single-game record with five sacrifice flies –&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/babin_kael_g1ow">Kael Babin</a>, Cymbalista,&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/summers_jackson_drux">Jackson Summers</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/bradford_blake_6h1a">Blake Bradford</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/vassart_tyson_020j">Tyson Vassart</a>&nbsp;also had sacrifice flies in the game.

Hutchinson broke the game open early with a six-run first inning where 11 batters came to the plate. The Dragons scored three in the second and batted around in both the third and fourth innings, where they scored five and eight runs, respectively.

Cymbalista was 4 for 4 with four runs scored and three RBIs to lead the Blue Dragon offense. Cymbalista extended his hitting streak to 11 games.

Bradford went 2 for 3 with three RBIs – Bradford had a series-high seven RBIs. The Dragon third baseman had a run-scoring single, an RBI on a safety squeeze bunt and a sacrifice fly.

<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/davis_jon_e1bh">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 2, including his first career home run, a three-run blast to left field in the fourth inning.

<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/maher_quinn_h0lr">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 3 with a pair of RBIs.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/pimental-guerrero_luis_ubag">Luis Pimentel-Guerrero</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 5 with three runs scored. Pimentel-Guerrero extended his career-best consecutive game hitting streak to 19 games, which tied Trever Adams (2009) for the third-longest hitting streak in Blue Dragon history.

Jarrett Herrman drove in two runs with a single in the fourth inning.

Starting pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/neill_bradley_q5wl">Bradley Neill</a>&nbsp;and three relief pitchers combined on a five-hit shutout, Hutchinson's 10th shutout of the season.

Neill (9-0) allowed four hits and two walks over four innings with a pair of strikeouts. Neill worked out of a bases-loaded, no-out situation to start the second inning, getting an infield fly, strikeout and flyout to left to get out of the inning without allowing a run.

<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/hadden_jacob_atac">Jacob Hadden</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/roehler_trenton_3q7k">Trenton Roehler</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wandless_caden_3vbw">Caden Wanless</a>&nbsp;each worked a scoreless inning. Wanless struck out the side in the top of the seventh inning to end the game.

Blue Dragon pitchers have now thrown 16 consecutive innings over the past three games.

POSTGAME NOTES …+ The 2024 Blue Dragons are now alone in third place in wins for a season in program history with 46.

+ The Blue Dragons completed their seventh opening-round sweep and are now 11-5 all-time in best-of-3 regional opening-round series. The Dragons are 22-14 in opening-round best-of-3 series.

+&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>&nbsp;had his fourth four-plus hit game of the season.

+ For the series, the Blue Dragons outscored Labette 33-0 and out-hit the Cardinals 32-8.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715383605052.jpeg" alt="Blake Bradford had four total hits and seven total RBIs in a Blue Dragon series sweep of Labette, which concluded Friday at Hobart-Detter Field with a 23-0 run-rule win over the Cardinals. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Blake Bradford had four total hits and seven total RBIs in a Blue Dragon series sweep of Labette, which concluded Friday at Hobart-Detter Field with a 23-0 run-rule win over the Cardinals. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe No. 15-ranked Hutchinson Community College Baseball team racked up a season-high 23 runs to complete a sweep of the Labette Cardinals on Friday in the opening round of the Region VI Baseball Tournament at Hobart-Detter Field.<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>&nbsp;went 4 for 4 and drove in three runs and four Blue Dragon pitchers combined on a five-hit shutout to defeat the Cardinals 23-0 in Game 2, winning the best-of-3 series 2-0.The Jayhawk West champion and tournament No. 2-seeded Blue Dragons (46-11) advance to the eight-team double-elimination Plains District Tournament, which begins Wednesday at Eck Stadium in Wichita. The Blue Dragons will meet the Barton Cougars at 1 p.m.This was the fourth time in 2024 the Blue Dragons have scored 20 or more runs in a game. The 23-run eruption tied for the eighth most in Hutchinson single-game history, matching a Region 6 game against Independence in 2016 and a regular-season battle against Dodge City in 2021.The Blue Dragons had 18 hits, including two doubles, a triple and home run. Labette also added seven walks, seven errors, two balks, three hit batters and three wild pitches to the mix.The Dragons also broke a single-game record with five sacrifice flies –&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/babin_kael_g1ow">Kael Babin</a>, Cymbalista,&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/summers_jackson_drux">Jackson Summers</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/bradford_blake_6h1a">Blake Bradford</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/vassart_tyson_020j">Tyson Vassart</a>&nbsp;also had sacrifice flies in the game.Hutchinson broke the game open early with a six-run first inning where 11 batters came to the plate. The Dragons scored three in the second and batted around in both the third and fourth innings, where they scored five and eight runs, respectively.Cymbalista was 4 for 4 with four runs scored and three RBIs to lead the Blue Dragon offense. Cymbalista extended his hitting streak to 11 games.Bradford went 2 for 3 with three RBIs – Bradford had a series-high seven RBIs. The Dragon third baseman had a run-scoring single, an RBI on a safety squeeze bunt and a sacrifice fly.<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/davis_jon_e1bh">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 2, including his first career home run, a three-run blast to left field in the fourth inning.<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/maher_quinn_h0lr">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 3 with a pair of RBIs.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/pimental-guerrero_luis_ubag">Luis Pimentel-Guerrero</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 5 with three runs scored. Pimentel-Guerrero extended his career-best consecutive game hitting streak to 19 games, which tied Trever Adams (2009) for the third-longest hitting streak in Blue Dragon history.Jarrett Herrman drove in two runs with a single in the fourth inning.Starting pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/neill_bradley_q5wl">Bradley Neill</a>&nbsp;and three relief pitchers combined on a five-hit shutout, Hutchinson's 10th shutout of the season.Neill (9-0) allowed four hits and two walks over four innings with a pair of strikeouts. Neill worked out of a bases-loaded, no-out situation to start the second inning, getting an infield fly, strikeout and flyout to left to get out of the inning without allowing a run.<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/hadden_jacob_atac">Jacob Hadden</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/roehler_trenton_3q7k">Trenton Roehler</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wandless_caden_3vbw">Caden Wanless</a>&nbsp;each worked a scoreless inning. Wanless struck out the side in the top of the seventh inning to end the game.Blue Dragon pitchers have now thrown 16 consecutive innings over the past three games.POSTGAME NOTES …+ The 2024 Blue Dragons are now alone in third place in wins for a season in program history with 46.+ The Blue Dragons completed their seventh opening-round sweep and are now 11-5 all-time in best-of-3 regional opening-round series. The Dragons are 22-14 in opening-round best-of-3 series.+&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>&nbsp;had his fourth four-plus hit game of the season.+ For the series, the Blue Dragons outscored Labette 33-0 and out-hit the Cardinals 32-8.

⚾️ Blue Dragons complete opening-round sweep of Labette

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Art Fair is Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sunflower South building on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Admission is free.

 Live music will be a big part of the event.

Color Green-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Art Center

Color Green is a Bluegrass/Gospel group based in the Hutchinson/Yoder, KS area, and have been together for about two years. The five members bring many years of musical history into the group. Although they’ve cut out their teeth on Bluegrass &amp; Gospel music, other genres have been added — because they’re too good to pass up! They have been playing locally at craft showed, churches and about wherever anyone will listen!

Justin Riggs-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Art Center

Justin Riggs is a singer-songwriter from Hutchinson, KS who plays original country and folk tunes. He has performed at the Reno County Farmer’s Market and Metropolitan Coffee as well as in various venues across the great Sunflower State. He released his debut album Hawk | Bison | Sun in February 2022.

Fifty Years Late-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Art Center

Fifty Years Late is returning to the Hutchinson Art Fair stage! Originally formed in 1957 by two Oxford, KS high school students, the group broke up in 1961 as they headed off to college and reformed in 2011 after the band members entered retirement. The trio plays early rock 'n' roll, performing in the style of legendary 1950s and 1960s acts such as the Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, Johnny Rivers and more!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also, there is a lengthy list of vendors for the event.

PAINTING Tom Belcher Betty Boister Larry Bolton Katie Broker Andy Brown Barbara Gabel (Alas-Kan Treasures) Becka Jahelka (Jahelka Art) Bryce McCoy (Bryce McCoy Landscapes) Ariana Mixon (Ariana Mixon Art) Kathie Moore (Dragonfly Studio) Mandy Norwood (Shallow Creek Studio) Virgil Penner Phyllis Provost-Saas (Art by Phyllis) Janice Richardson Cathy Wilkins (Studio CW) Jocelyn Woodson

CERAMICS Jennifer Christiansen (Prairie Dragon Studio, LLC) Tony Christenson (Claytique Roses Studio) Daisy Friesen (Friesen Art) Dave Hilley (Dunworkin Pottery) Michael Schyler Elizabeth Yutzy (Little Arrows Pottery)

JEWELRY Lisha Collins (A Musing Art and Craft Studio) Dennis Flores (Bison Bead Jewelry) Douglas Richards (Originals by Doug) Ellen Rohl (Timber Road Designs) Leah Ward (Essential Elements by Leah) Judy Willingham (jmw jewelry / Prairiefire Gems)

DRAWING Sheree Collins Brent Fairchild Sara Grant Brown (S. Grant Atelier)

SCULPTURE Heike Kirk (Three Doors North) Don Lind Melanie Sullivan (M&amp;C’s Welding and Repair)

PHOTOGRAPHY Caleb McGinn (Caleb McGinn Photography) Joe Wicks (Wicks Images)

GLASS Chuck Watson (Chuck Watson Glass Art)

MOSAICBetty Boister (Betty’s Garden Party) Brenda Leslie (BEL Mosaics)

WOOD Donovan Claassen (Unique Wood Pieces)

OTHER Beth Boese (Mixed) Craig Green (EBAINO-LUXUER Art Designs) (Mixed) Amy Guymon (Butterflies) Ashleigh Harris (From the Ash) (Mixed) Jean Henry (Baskets) Kate Irelan (Kate’s Art) (Face Painting) Kelly Keyser (Purple Butterfly Studio) (Mixed) Derese McAbee (Butterbee Boutique) (Crochet, Handmade Items, and Oil Paintings) Dorothy Miller (Mixed) Jen Pettay (Jen Pettay Art) (Mixed) Tronda Roselius (Birdie Blue Studio) (Fiber) Roy &amp; Pauline Swanson (Pint’s Paintings n Wood) (Mixed) Shelly Yoxall (Shelly on the Shore) (Mixed)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The judge for the 2024 Hutchinson Art Fair is Martha Fitzwater!

Martha was raised in Winfield, Kansas, and graduated from the University of Kansas with an art education degree in 1971. With twenty-nine years of teaching experience in public schools, Martha taught in seven different school districts in Kansas, including both Inman and Buhler.

After retiring from public schools, Martha taught part-time for seven years at Southwestern College in Winfield and continues to teach at Winfield Arts &amp; Humanities Council.

Martha has served as an art judge for Winfield’s Art in the Park Festival, twice at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival, and the Kansas State Fair professional Art Exhibition. Specializing as a Kansas landscape artist, Martha works primarily with both pastel and watercolor mediums and has also taught ceramics in several of her teaching experiences.

<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/2024/5/1715351101673.png" alt="2024 Hutchinson Art Fair" />
 <figcaption>2024 Hutchinson Art Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Art Fair is Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sunflower South building on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Admission is free. Live music will be a big part of the event.The lineup includes:Color Green (9:00 - 11:00 a.m.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712854333707.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Color Green-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Art CenterColor Green is a Bluegrass/Gospel group based in the Hutchinson/Yoder, KS area, and have been together for about two years. The five members bring many years of musical history into the group. Although they’ve cut out their teeth on Bluegrass &amp; Gospel music, other genres have been added — because they’re too good to pass up! They have been playing locally at craft showed, churches and about wherever anyone will listen!ADVERTISINGJustin Riggs (11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712854375770.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Justin Riggs-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Art CenterJustin Riggs is a singer-songwriter from Hutchinson, KS who plays original country and folk tunes. He has performed at the Reno County Farmer’s Market and Metropolitan Coffee as well as in various venues across the great Sunflower State. He released his debut album Hawk | Bison | Sun in February 2022.Fifty Years Late (2:00 - 4:00 p.m.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712854408409.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fifty Years Late-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Art CenterFifty Years Late is returning to the Hutchinson Art Fair stage! Originally formed in 1957 by two Oxford, KS high school students, the group broke up in 1961 as they headed off to college and reformed in 2011 after the band members entered retirement. The trio plays early rock 'n' roll, performing in the style of legendary 1950s and 1960s acts such as the Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, Johnny Rivers and more!&nbsp;&nbsp;Also, there is a lengthy list of vendors for the event.2024 Hutchinson Art Fair VendorsPAINTING Tom Belcher Betty Boister Larry Bolton Katie Broker Andy Brown Barbara Gabel (Alas-Kan Treasures) Becka Jahelka (Jahelka Art) Bryce McCoy (Bryce McCoy Landscapes) Ariana Mixon (Ariana Mixon Art) Kathie Moore (Dragonfly Studio) Mandy Norwood (Shallow Creek Studio) Virgil Penner Phyllis Provost-Saas (Art by Phyllis) Janice Richardson Cathy Wilkins (Studio CW) Jocelyn WoodsonCERAMICS Jennifer Christiansen (Prairie Dragon Studio, LLC) Tony Christenson (Claytique Roses Studio) Daisy Friesen (Friesen Art) Dave Hilley (Dunworkin Pottery) Michael Schyler Elizabeth Yutzy (Little Arrows Pottery)JEWELRY Lisha Collins (A Musing Art and Craft Studio) Dennis Flores (Bison Bead Jewelry) Douglas Richards (Originals by Doug) Ellen Rohl (Timber Road Designs) Leah Ward (Essential Elements by Leah) Judy Willingham (jmw jewelry / Prairiefire Gems)DRAWING Sheree Collins Brent Fairchild Sara Grant Brown (S. Grant Atelier)SCULPTURE Heike Kirk (Three Doors North) Don Lind Melanie Sullivan (M&amp;C’s Welding and Repair)PHOTOGRAPHY Caleb McGinn (Caleb McGinn Photography) Joe Wicks (Wicks Images)GLASS Chuck Watson (Chuck Watson Glass Art)MOSAICBetty Boister (Betty’s Garden Party) Brenda Leslie (BEL Mosaics)WOOD Donovan Claassen (Unique Wood Pieces)OTHER Beth Boese (Mixed) Craig Green (EBAINO-LUXUER Art Designs) (Mixed) Amy Guymon (Butterflies) Ashleigh Harris (From the Ash) (Mixed) Jean Henry (Baskets) Kate Irelan (Kate’s Art) (Face Painting) Kelly Keyser (Purple Butterfly Studio) (Mixed) Derese McAbee (Butterbee Boutique) (Crochet, Handmade Items, and Oil Paintings) Dorothy Miller (Mixed) Jen Pettay (Jen Pettay Art) (Mixed) Tronda Roselius (Birdie Blue Studio) (Fiber) Roy &amp; Pauline Swanson (Pint’s Paintings n Wood) (Mixed) Shelly Yoxall (Shelly on the Shore) (Mixed)&nbsp;&nbsp;The judge for the 2024 Hutchinson Art Fair is Martha Fitzwater!Martha was raised in Winfield, Kansas, and graduated from the University of Kansas with an art education degree in 1971. With twenty-nine years of teaching experience in public schools, Martha taught in seven different school districts in Kansas, including both Inman and Buhler.After retiring from public schools, Martha taught part-time for seven years at Southwestern College in Winfield and continues to teach at Winfield Arts &amp; Humanities Council.Martha has served as an art judge for Winfield’s Art in the Park Festival, twice at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival, and the Kansas State Fair professional Art Exhibition. Specializing as a Kansas landscape artist, Martha works primarily with both pastel and watercolor mediums and has also taught ceramics in several of her teaching experiences.<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;

Art Fair is Saturday

Sophomore pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/giesbrecht_ethan_qz2n">Ethan Giesbrecht</a>&nbsp;won his 11th game of the season and sophomores&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/bradford_blake_6h1a">Blake Bradford</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/pimental-guerrero_luis_ubag">Luis Pimentel-Guerrero</a>&nbsp;combined for seven RBIs as the No. 15-ranked Hutchinson Community College baseball team rolled past the Labette Cardinals on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field.

The Blue Dragons hammered out 14 hits and stole eight bases to cruise to a 10-0 run-rule victory over the Cardinals in Game 1 of the Region VI Tournament opening-round series.

Game 2 of the series will be at 1 p.m. on Friday at Hobart-Detter Field.

BLUE DRAGON BASEBALL No. 15 Hutchinson (45-11) vs. Labette (14-36) - Region 6 Opening-Round Series Game 2 When: Friday, May 10, 2024 Time: 1 p.m. Admission: Free Video: Blue Dragon Sports Network, 12:50 p.m. Link:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=1081431">https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=1081431</a>

With the victory, the Blue Dragons, now 45-11, tie the 2000 Blue Dragons for the third-most wins in program history. Labette fell to 14-36.

Giesbrecht (11-2) worked the first six innings and was part of his fourth shutout of the season (1 complete game and three combined shutouts). The sophomore starter was in trouble in the first inning when a walk, error and hit batter loaded the bases with one out. Giesbrecht got out of the jam with a flyout to shallow left field and a strikeout.

Giesbrecht gave up a single in the second and a single and walk in the third, but a rare 5-4-6 double play ended the third inning and the Blue Dragon sophomore went on to retire the final 10 batters he faced.

Giesbrecht allowed two hits over six shutout innings. He struck out five wand walked two.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/perkins_ashton_8hhl">Ashton Perkins</a>&nbsp;struck out two and allowed a hit and walk in a scoreless seventh to close out the game.

The Blue Dragons started giving Giesbrecht some offensive support in the second inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/tucker_jordan_v8wz">Jordan Tucker</a>&nbsp;had an RBI infield single in the second inning to get the Dragons on the board. Pimentel-Guerrero then hit a three-run opposite-field double down the left-field line to give Hutchinson a 4-0 lead.

The Dragons made it 7-0 with three runs in the third inning. Bradford hit a two-run infield single and pinch hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/davis_jon_e1bh">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;sacrifice fly to push the lead to seven runs. Bradford's two-run single through the left side of the infield in the fourth inning made it 9-0. Tucker scored on the back end of a double-steal attempt in the sixth to make it 10-0.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wesslund_cooper_2jkh">Cooper Wesslund</a>&nbsp;went 3 for 3 to lead Hutchinson's 14-hit attack, his team-high 24th multi-hit game this season. Wesslund also had two stolen bases.

Bradford had his fourth game of four or more RBIs this season with four driven in on 2 for 3 at the plate with a walk.

Pimentel-Guerrero extended his hitting streak to 18 games going 1 for 4 with a double and three RBIs. Pimentel-Guerrero tied Michael Helman (2017) for the fourth-longest consecutive game hitting streak in Blue Dragon history.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>&nbsp;extended his current hitting streak to 10 games after a 2 for 4 game with a double.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/vassart_tyson_020j">Tyson Vassart</a>&nbsp;doubled as well. All nine Blue Dragon starters had at lead one hit.

The Dragons were 8 of 9 in stolen bases on Thursday. Tucker had a career high three steals to lead the Blue Dragons.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/babin_kael_g1ow">Kael Babin</a>&nbsp;had one steal to tie Carlos Akins for the Blue Dragon career stolen bases with 73 career steals.

The Blue Dragons also broke the program record for runs scored in a season with 569.

POSTGAME NOTES+ The Blue Dragons are now 22-14 all-time in the best-of-3 opening-round format which started in 2014, including 7-1 in four series vs. Labette.

+ The 2024 Blue Dragons became the first team in program history to reach 200 stolen bases in one season, now with 201.

+ The Dragons extend their season team record for hit by pitches with 168.

+ The Dragons now have 19 games this season of five or more stolen bases.

+ The Blue Dragons are 23-2 this season at Hobart-Detter Field.

+ Now with a 15-4 career pitching record for his career,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/giesbrecht_ethan_qz2n">Ethan Giesbrecht</a>&nbsp;ties Craig Reed (1999-2000), Shawn Lewick (2009-10) and Kyle Simonds (2013-14) for fifth on the career wins list.

+ Now with 125 career strikeouts, Giesbrecht moved past Simonds into eighth place on the career strikeout list and with his 85 seas strikeouts, he ties Max Simpson (2015) for seventh on the single-season strikeout list.

+ The 2024 Blue Dragons are now fourth in single-season history with 616 hits for the season. They are seventh in season walks with 248 base on balls.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715308035450.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon starter Ethan Giesbrecht tosses six innings of two-hit shutout ball to earn his 11th victory of the season in No. 15 Hutchinson's 10-0 win over Labette in Game 1 of the Region VI opening-round series on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon starter Ethan Giesbrecht tosses six innings of two-hit shutout ball to earn his 11th victory of the season in No. 15 Hutchinson's 10-0 win over Labette in Game 1 of the Region VI opening-round series on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationSophomore pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/giesbrecht_ethan_qz2n">Ethan Giesbrecht</a>&nbsp;won his 11th game of the season and sophomores&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/bradford_blake_6h1a">Blake Bradford</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/pimental-guerrero_luis_ubag">Luis Pimentel-Guerrero</a>&nbsp;combined for seven RBIs as the No. 15-ranked Hutchinson Community College baseball team rolled past the Labette Cardinals on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field.The Blue Dragons hammered out 14 hits and stole eight bases to cruise to a 10-0 run-rule victory over the Cardinals in Game 1 of the Region VI Tournament opening-round series.Game 2 of the series will be at 1 p.m. on Friday at Hobart-Detter Field.BLUE DRAGON BASEBALL No. 15 Hutchinson (45-11) vs. Labette (14-36) - Region 6 Opening-Round Series Game 2 When: Friday, May 10, 2024 Time: 1 p.m. Admission: Free Video: Blue Dragon Sports Network, 12:50 p.m. Link:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=1081431">https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=1081431</a>With the victory, the Blue Dragons, now 45-11, tie the 2000 Blue Dragons for the third-most wins in program history. Labette fell to 14-36.Giesbrecht (11-2) worked the first six innings and was part of his fourth shutout of the season (1 complete game and three combined shutouts). The sophomore starter was in trouble in the first inning when a walk, error and hit batter loaded the bases with one out. Giesbrecht got out of the jam with a flyout to shallow left field and a strikeout.Giesbrecht gave up a single in the second and a single and walk in the third, but a rare 5-4-6 double play ended the third inning and the Blue Dragon sophomore went on to retire the final 10 batters he faced.Giesbrecht allowed two hits over six shutout innings. He struck out five wand walked two.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/perkins_ashton_8hhl">Ashton Perkins</a>&nbsp;struck out two and allowed a hit and walk in a scoreless seventh to close out the game.The Blue Dragons started giving Giesbrecht some offensive support in the second inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/tucker_jordan_v8wz">Jordan Tucker</a>&nbsp;had an RBI infield single in the second inning to get the Dragons on the board. Pimentel-Guerrero then hit a three-run opposite-field double down the left-field line to give Hutchinson a 4-0 lead.The Dragons made it 7-0 with three runs in the third inning. Bradford hit a two-run infield single and pinch hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/davis_jon_e1bh">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;sacrifice fly to push the lead to seven runs. Bradford's two-run single through the left side of the infield in the fourth inning made it 9-0. Tucker scored on the back end of a double-steal attempt in the sixth to make it 10-0.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wesslund_cooper_2jkh">Cooper Wesslund</a>&nbsp;went 3 for 3 to lead Hutchinson's 14-hit attack, his team-high 24th multi-hit game this season. Wesslund also had two stolen bases.Bradford had his fourth game of four or more RBIs this season with four driven in on 2 for 3 at the plate with a walk.Pimentel-Guerrero extended his hitting streak to 18 games going 1 for 4 with a double and three RBIs. Pimentel-Guerrero tied Michael Helman (2017) for the fourth-longest consecutive game hitting streak in Blue Dragon history.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>&nbsp;extended his current hitting streak to 10 games after a 2 for 4 game with a double.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/vassart_tyson_020j">Tyson Vassart</a>&nbsp;doubled as well. All nine Blue Dragon starters had at lead one hit.The Dragons were 8 of 9 in stolen bases on Thursday. Tucker had a career high three steals to lead the Blue Dragons.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/babin_kael_g1ow">Kael Babin</a>&nbsp;had one steal to tie Carlos Akins for the Blue Dragon career stolen bases with 73 career steals.The Blue Dragons also broke the program record for runs scored in a season with 569.POSTGAME NOTES+ The Blue Dragons are now 22-14 all-time in the best-of-3 opening-round format which started in 2014, including 7-1 in four series vs. Labette.+ The 2024 Blue Dragons became the first team in program history to reach 200 stolen bases in one season, now with 201.+ The Dragons extend their season team record for hit by pitches with 168.+ The Dragons now have 19 games this season of five or more stolen bases.+ The Blue Dragons are 23-2 this season at Hobart-Detter Field.+ Now with a 15-4 career pitching record for his career,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/giesbrecht_ethan_qz2n">Ethan Giesbrecht</a>&nbsp;ties Craig Reed (1999-2000), Shawn Lewick (2009-10) and Kyle Simonds (2013-14) for fifth on the career wins list.+ Now with 125 career strikeouts, Giesbrecht moved past Simonds into eighth place on the career strikeout list and with his 85 seas strikeouts, he ties Max Simpson (2015) for seventh on the single-season strikeout list.+ The 2024 Blue Dragons are now fourth in single-season history with 616 hits for the season. They are seventh in season walks with 248 base on balls.

⚾ Blue Dragons roll past Labette in game 1

Vickie Lynn Frank, 73, passed away Thursday, May 9, 2024 at Hospice House in Hutchinson. She was born on January 24, 1951 in La Junta, Colorado to Floyd Alvin and Theresa Helen (French) Keller. Vickie married Thomas "Tom" Gerald Frank on April 3, 1971 in Ulysses. They were married for 53 years.

Vickie graduated from Ulysses High School in 1969 and went on to attend Hutchinson Community College. She worked as a secretary for USD 310 Fairfield for almost 20 years. She was a member of Turon Community Church and was a First responder for Turon EMS for several years. She enjoyed sewing, playing board games and card games, doing puzzles and playing softball. She was a very competitive video gamer and an avid bowler who went to several State Tournaments. She was very proud of her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Tom; daughters, Heather Frank, Debra (Jason) Evans and Janelle Frank all of Turon; brother, Kenny (Mary) Keller of Ulysses; grandchildren, Jaden (Addie Fountain) Evans, Trent (Daisy Raburn) Evans and Ava Evans all of Turon.

Vickie is preceded in death by her parents; son, Brian Frank; and infant brother, Gregory Keller.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 12, 2024 from 1:00 pm. - 8:00 p.m. with family receiving friends from 5-7 at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Rd, Pratt. &nbsp;Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 13, 2024 at Turon Community Church with Pastor Steve Gill presiding. Burial will follow at Turon Cemetery, Turon.

Memorials may be made to Gentiva Hospice or Hospice House of Hutchinson in care of Larrison Mortuary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715341287613.jpeg" alt="Vickie Lynn Frank" />
 <figcaption>Vickie Lynn Frank</figcaption>
 </figure>Vickie Lynn Frank, 73, passed away Thursday, May 9, 2024 at Hospice House in Hutchinson. She was born on January 24, 1951 in La Junta, Colorado to Floyd Alvin and Theresa Helen (French) Keller. Vickie married Thomas "Tom" Gerald Frank on April 3, 1971 in Ulysses. They were married for 53 years.Vickie graduated from Ulysses High School in 1969 and went on to attend Hutchinson Community College. She worked as a secretary for USD 310 Fairfield for almost 20 years. She was a member of Turon Community Church and was a First responder for Turon EMS for several years. She enjoyed sewing, playing board games and card games, doing puzzles and playing softball. She was a very competitive video gamer and an avid bowler who went to several State Tournaments. She was very proud of her children and grandchildren.She is survived by her husband, Tom; daughters, Heather Frank, Debra (Jason) Evans and Janelle Frank all of Turon; brother, Kenny (Mary) Keller of Ulysses; grandchildren, Jaden (Addie Fountain) Evans, Trent (Daisy Raburn) Evans and Ava Evans all of Turon.Vickie is preceded in death by her parents; son, Brian Frank; and infant brother, Gregory Keller.Visitation will be Sunday, May 12, 2024 from 1:00 pm. - 8:00 p.m. with family receiving friends from 5-7 at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Rd, Pratt. &nbsp;Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 13, 2024 at Turon Community Church with Pastor Steve Gill presiding. Burial will follow at Turon Cemetery, Turon.Memorials may be made to Gentiva Hospice or Hospice House of Hutchinson in care of Larrison Mortuary.

Vickie Lynn Frank |1951-2024|

John Allen Robinson died May 6, 2024, at Hutchinson, KS. He was born August 20, 1930, to John C. and Velma M. Robinson. &nbsp;John was a 1948 graduate of Hutchinson High School, attended Hutchinson Junior College, and Washburn Law School with a JD degree in 1955. &nbsp;He served in the United States Air Force as a JAG officer. &nbsp;On discharge, John returned to Hutchinson and entered the practice of law from which he retired in 1995.&nbsp;

John married Claire E. Cole on January 12, 1952; Claire died August 17, 1999. &nbsp;On November 20, 2003, he married Gail D. Harper. &nbsp;She survives.

Other survivors include: &nbsp;daughter, Gina K. Sapp (Gary), Deepwater, MO; sons, J. Craig Robinson and Ted A. Robinson (Linda), all of Hutchinson; stepchildren, Kelly Harper (Lora) and Kim Swan (Chris), all of Wichita; and eight grandchildren.

John was a past member of the American Bar Association, American Trial Lawyers Association, Kansas Bar Association, and past president of the Reno County Bar Association and Southwest Kansas Bar Association. &nbsp;He also served the City of Hutchinson as City Prosecutor, Municipal Court Judge, and City Attorney.&nbsp;

Over the years, John participated in a number of local civic and community organizations. &nbsp;He was a past president of the Jaycees, Prairie Dunes Country Club, and a past member of the Elks, Kiwanis Toast Masters, Chamber of Commerce, and on the board for Friends of the Library. &nbsp;

Cremation has taken place, and per John’s wishes, no services will be held. &nbsp;Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday at Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715262446617.jpeg" alt="John Allen Robinson " />
 <figcaption>John Allen Robinson </figcaption>
 </figure>John Allen Robinson died May 6, 2024, at Hutchinson, KS. He was born August 20, 1930, to John C. and Velma M. Robinson. &nbsp;John was a 1948 graduate of Hutchinson High School, attended Hutchinson Junior College, and Washburn Law School with a JD degree in 1955. &nbsp;He served in the United States Air Force as a JAG officer. &nbsp;On discharge, John returned to Hutchinson and entered the practice of law from which he retired in 1995.&nbsp;John married Claire E. Cole on January 12, 1952; Claire died August 17, 1999. &nbsp;On November 20, 2003, he married Gail D. Harper. &nbsp;She survives.Other survivors include: &nbsp;daughter, Gina K. Sapp (Gary), Deepwater, MO; sons, J. Craig Robinson and Ted A. Robinson (Linda), all of Hutchinson; stepchildren, Kelly Harper (Lora) and Kim Swan (Chris), all of Wichita; and eight grandchildren.John was a past member of the American Bar Association, American Trial Lawyers Association, Kansas Bar Association, and past president of the Reno County Bar Association and Southwest Kansas Bar Association. &nbsp;He also served the City of Hutchinson as City Prosecutor, Municipal Court Judge, and City Attorney.&nbsp;Over the years, John participated in a number of local civic and community organizations. &nbsp;He was a past president of the Jaycees, Prairie Dunes Country Club, and a past member of the Elks, Kiwanis Toast Masters, Chamber of Commerce, and on the board for Friends of the Library. &nbsp;Cremation has taken place, and per John’s wishes, no services will be held. &nbsp;Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday at Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.&nbsp;

John A. Robinson |1930-2024|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three Class of 2024 Salthawk student-athletes, along with their families, participated in the Spring Signing Day at Hutchinson High School today, as part of a long-standing tradition.

Lakin Franz will attend Kansas Wesleyan University in the fall to play baseball. He chose KWU because of their strong campus and athletics culture. He plans to double major in Sports Management and Business. While at Hutchinson High School he excelled in baseball and swimming. As a sophomore he made honorable mention catcher, and as a junior played second team utility. In swimming, Franz participated in the relay events and placed 7th&nbsp;at State.&nbsp;The Salthawks ended the regular season last night against Derby. Their record stands at 17-9 overall and 8-4 in the AVCTL-I. The 17 wins are the most by a Salthawks team since the 2004 team finished 17-4.

ReyJon Redenbaugh will join the soccer team this fall at Manhattan Christian College. Redenbaugh stated he chose MCC because the “staff, soccer team, and coach were very welcoming and friendly. Also, I have previous teammates and friends that attend Manhattan Christian College.” Redenbaugh has not determined his college major at this time but is most interested in Business. The Salthawk soccer team ended their season in the fall of 2023 with a 7-8-2 record.

Daylee VanSyckle signs on as a Coffeyville Community College Red Raven for the fall of 2024. The 6’4” Senior is most excited about leveling up his football skills and career next year. He was impressed with the Coffeeville coaches throughout the recruitment process. VanSyckle enjoyed a strong Salthawk football career with three years on the starting line. The past two seasons he has been named First Team All-State in the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League. VanSyckle served as team Captain last fall when the Salthawk Football team went 7-3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648640359585.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>USD 308 ReleaseHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three Class of 2024 Salthawk student-athletes, along with their families, participated in the Spring Signing Day at Hutchinson High School today, as part of a long-standing tradition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715253980630.jpeg" alt="Lakin Franz signed to play baseball at Kansas Wesleyan University" />
 <figcaption>Lakin Franz signed to play baseball at Kansas Wesleyan University</figcaption>
 </figure>Lakin Franz will attend Kansas Wesleyan University in the fall to play baseball. He chose KWU because of their strong campus and athletics culture. He plans to double major in Sports Management and Business. While at Hutchinson High School he excelled in baseball and swimming. As a sophomore he made honorable mention catcher, and as a junior played second team utility. In swimming, Franz participated in the relay events and placed 7th&nbsp;at State.&nbsp;The Salthawks ended the regular season last night against Derby. Their record stands at 17-9 overall and 8-4 in the AVCTL-I. The 17 wins are the most by a Salthawks team since the 2004 team finished 17-4.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715254020847.jpeg" alt="ReyJon Redenbaugh signed with Manhattan Christian College" />
 <figcaption>ReyJon Redenbaugh signed with Manhattan Christian College</figcaption>
 </figure>ReyJon Redenbaugh will join the soccer team this fall at Manhattan Christian College. Redenbaugh stated he chose MCC because the “staff, soccer team, and coach were very welcoming and friendly. Also, I have previous teammates and friends that attend Manhattan Christian College.” Redenbaugh has not determined his college major at this time but is most interested in Business. The Salthawk soccer team ended their season in the fall of 2023 with a 7-8-2 record.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715254069141.jpeg" alt="Daylee VanSyckle will play football at Coffeyville Community College" />
 <figcaption>Daylee VanSyckle will play football at Coffeyville Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>Daylee VanSyckle signs on as a Coffeyville Community College Red Raven for the fall of 2024. The 6’4” Senior is most excited about leveling up his football skills and career next year. He was impressed with the Coffeeville coaches throughout the recruitment process. VanSyckle enjoyed a strong Salthawk football career with three years on the starting line. The past two seasons he has been named First Team All-State in the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League. VanSyckle served as team Captain last fall when the Salthawk Football team went 7-3.

⚾⚽🏈 3 Hutch High seniors participated in the Spring Signing Day

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — About 80 Reno County high school students participated in Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy's (HC&amp;TEA) fourth annual signing day ceremony Tuesday morning. The ceremony is designed to honor students who are entering a technical field after high school.&nbsp;

"Every year it just gets a little bit more exciting&nbsp; to see  just the smiles on the young peoples faces but also looking out there at the crowd at their parents and their educators who are excited to support them in their future careers," Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel said. "That's really why we do it, to really celebrate those kids for the good decisions that they are making that we know will pay off. We know it's going to lead to a career and we hope that career is right here in our community."&nbsp;

Each student signed a commerative letter of intent and put on a Hutchinson Community College hat for the ceremony. Some of the trades students announced their intent to pursue include Automotive Technology, Construction Technology, Welding Technology and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA).&nbsp;

Teufel said each student who is concurrent with an HC&amp;TEA program is earning credit with HCC as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"By the time they graduate high school they may have a&nbsp; certificate or a credential in one of the technical fields, but at the same time have earned some Hutch Community College credit along the way and then they can choose to either take that credit and continue to get their associates in one of those fields or they can choose to go right into the workplace," said Teufel.&nbsp;

After the ceremony, an employer fair that featured nine local employers took place. Teufel said if there are students out there that didn't get to participate in signing day but are interested in any of the career fields featured at the fair, to contact the Chamber.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"Our Greater Hutch economic development office is located at the chamber and we want to make sure that kids are getting into those internships with local companies," Teufel said. "There's also a career advisor at Hutch Community College as well as your school counselors that can advise you on careers. There's a specific program at Hutch Community College that lines up apprenticeship dollars so that students can get some reimbursement while they are attending school and the employers are paying some of their tuition as well as earing a good wage while they are going to school."&nbsp;&nbsp;

HC&amp;TEA is located at&nbsp; 800 15th Circle in Hutchinson. More information about the academy is available at <a href="http://usd308.com">usd308.com</a>.&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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715102962521.jpeg" alt="2024 Signing Day-Photo by Emmie Boese" />
 <figcaption>2024 Signing Day-Photo by Emmie Boese</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — About 80 Reno County high school students participated in Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy's (HC&amp;TEA) fourth annual signing day ceremony Tuesday morning. The ceremony is designed to honor students who are entering a technical field after high school.&nbsp;"Every year it just gets a little bit more exciting&nbsp; to see just the smiles on the young peoples faces but also looking out there at the crowd at their parents and their educators who are excited to support them in their future careers," Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel said. "That's really why we do it, to really celebrate those kids for the good decisions that they are making that we know will pay off. We know it's going to lead to a career and we hope that career is right here in our community."&nbsp;Each student signed a commerative letter of intent and put on a Hutchinson Community College hat for the ceremony. Some of the trades students announced their intent to pursue include Automotive Technology, Construction Technology, Welding Technology and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA).&nbsp;Teufel said each student who is concurrent with an HC&amp;TEA program is earning credit with HCC as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;"By the time they graduate high school they may have a&nbsp; certificate or a credential in one of the technical fields, but at the same time have earned some Hutch Community College credit along the way and then they can choose to either take that credit and continue to get their associates in one of those fields or they can choose to go right into the workplace," said Teufel.&nbsp;After the ceremony, an employer fair that featured nine local employers took place. Teufel said if there are students out there that didn't get to participate in signing day but are interested in any of the career fields featured at the fair, to contact the Chamber.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Our Greater Hutch economic development office is located at the chamber and we want to make sure that kids are getting into those internships with local companies," Teufel said. "There's also a career advisor at Hutch Community College as well as your school counselors that can advise you on careers. There's a specific program at Hutch Community College that lines up apprenticeship dollars so that students can get some reimbursement while they are attending school and the employers are paying some of their tuition as well as earing a good wage while they are going to school."&nbsp;&nbsp;HC&amp;TEA is located at&nbsp; 800 15th Circle in Hutchinson. More information about the academy is available at <a href="http://usd308.com">usd308.com</a>.&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;&nbsp;

Signing Day 'more exciting' this year

DODGE CITY – Consider the Region VI Softball Tournament door now kicked in for the Hutchinson Community College softball team.

Led by a 14-hit offensive attack and a gutsy effort in the pitching circle from freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lake_dakota_j57w">Dakota Lake</a>, the second-seeded Blue Dragons completed a mission 37 years in the making on Monday at Legends Park.

Hutchinson jumped out to a six-run lead for the second straight game and captured the program's first Region 6 softball championship since 1987 with a 16-4 victory over the Butler Grizzlies in championship game.

The Blue Dragons automatically qualify for the NJCAA Division I National Softball Tournament, which will be May 20-25 at Choccolocco Park in Oxford, Alabama. The Blue Dragons extend their school record for wins in a season, taking a record 46-10 record to the national tournament.

Hutchinson is the first regional champion other than Butler since Barton won the title in 2015.

After playing in the regional championship game in 2017, 2018 and 2023, Blue Dragon head coach Jaime Rose celebrates her first regional championship in 20 seasons with the Blue Dragons. Earning her 600th win at Hutchinson earlier this season, Rose's Blue Dragon record is now 616-358 at Hutchinson.

Hutchinson had to come through the loser's bracket after dropping a 5-0 decision to Butler in the winner's bracket final on Saturday. Hutchinson qualified for the finals with a 9-5 win over Barton in Sunday's losers' bracket final and forced a second championship game with a 12-3 win over the top-seeded and defending regional champion Grizzlies.

Just like Sunday, the Blue Dragons jumped out fast with a three-run first inning. Divis got things going with an RBI single through the left side to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/sandoval_olivia_ydnf">Olivia Sandoval</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lies_korri_k1mj">Korri Lies</a>&nbsp;then singled to right to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/mastin_alexis_jxjs">Alexis Mastin</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;followed with an RBI single to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/darnell_jaeleigh_5kwl">Jaeleigh Darnell</a>&nbsp;for a 3-0 Blue Dragon lead.

The Dragons made it 6-0 after two innings with three runs in the second inning. Darnell reached on a fielder's choice, but the Grizzlies committed two of their four errors in the game on the play and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;scored to make it 4-0. Divis then followed with a two-run triple to give the Dragons a 6-0 lead.

From there, Lake (11-3) kept the Grizzlies at arm's length and keeping Butler away from big innings. The Grizzlies scored single runs in the second, third, fourth and fifth innings.

Lake pitched her eighth complete game of the season. She allowed eight hits, four runs and five walks. She struck out five to surpass D.J. Cannon (2018) for second place on the Blue Dragon single-season strikeout list, becoming only the second Blue Dragon to strike out 200 batters in one season. Only Holly Kelley (2016) has more strikeouts in a season with 262.

Leading 6-2 in fourth inning, the Blue Dragons stepped on the accelerator and pulled away from the Grizzlies with a six-run fourth inning.

Lies opened the inning with an RBI single that scored Mastin for a 7-2 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;then singled in two runs with a shot to shallow right-center for a 9-2 lead. Tami Lozoya then singled in a run, which was followed by an RBI fielder's choice by Sandoval and a bases-loaded walk to Mastin to build a 12-2 lead. The Dragons sent 13 batters to the in the fourth inning.

Leading 12-4 entering the seventh inning, the Blue Dragons added four more runs produced by an&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/kealey_annie_xr9m">Annie Kealey</a>&nbsp;pinch-hit three-run double and a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;RBI groundout.

Divis had her first career four-hit game, going 4 for 5 with a triple, three RBIs and two runs scored. Over the two championship games, Divis was 6 for 10 with four RBIs.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>, Sandoval, Lies and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;had two hits each.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;drove in three runs.

Sandoval's first-inning double was a school-record double. She broke a tie with Madison Grimes with her 43rd career double.POSTGAME NOTES+ Hutchinson made its sixth appearance in the Region VI championship game, joining the 1987, 1992, 2017, 2018 and 2023 teams.

+ With two hits in her first two at-bats on Monday,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;had a streak of 10 hits in 10 at-bats in the tournament.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715045574802.jpeg" alt="The Blue Dragon softball team raises the Region 6 Tournament championship trophy after defeating Butler 16-4 in the championship on Monday at Legends' Park in Dodge City. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>The Blue Dragon softball team raises the Region 6 Tournament championship trophy after defeating Butler 16-4 in the championship on Monday at Legends' Park in Dodge City. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationDODGE CITY – Consider the Region VI Softball Tournament door now kicked in for the Hutchinson Community College softball team.Led by a 14-hit offensive attack and a gutsy effort in the pitching circle from freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lake_dakota_j57w">Dakota Lake</a>, the second-seeded Blue Dragons completed a mission 37 years in the making on Monday at Legends Park.Hutchinson jumped out to a six-run lead for the second straight game and captured the program's first Region 6 softball championship since 1987 with a 16-4 victory over the Butler Grizzlies in championship game.The Blue Dragons automatically qualify for the NJCAA Division I National Softball Tournament, which will be May 20-25 at Choccolocco Park in Oxford, Alabama. The Blue Dragons extend their school record for wins in a season, taking a record 46-10 record to the national tournament.Hutchinson is the first regional champion other than Butler since Barton won the title in 2015.After playing in the regional championship game in 2017, 2018 and 2023, Blue Dragon head coach Jaime Rose celebrates her first regional championship in 20 seasons with the Blue Dragons. Earning her 600th win at Hutchinson earlier this season, Rose's Blue Dragon record is now 616-358 at Hutchinson.Hutchinson had to come through the loser's bracket after dropping a 5-0 decision to Butler in the winner's bracket final on Saturday. Hutchinson qualified for the finals with a 9-5 win over Barton in Sunday's losers' bracket final and forced a second championship game with a 12-3 win over the top-seeded and defending regional champion Grizzlies.Just like Sunday, the Blue Dragons jumped out fast with a three-run first inning. Divis got things going with an RBI single through the left side to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/sandoval_olivia_ydnf">Olivia Sandoval</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lies_korri_k1mj">Korri Lies</a>&nbsp;then singled to right to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/mastin_alexis_jxjs">Alexis Mastin</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;followed with an RBI single to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/darnell_jaeleigh_5kwl">Jaeleigh Darnell</a>&nbsp;for a 3-0 Blue Dragon lead.The Dragons made it 6-0 after two innings with three runs in the second inning. Darnell reached on a fielder's choice, but the Grizzlies committed two of their four errors in the game on the play and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;scored to make it 4-0. Divis then followed with a two-run triple to give the Dragons a 6-0 lead.From there, Lake (11-3) kept the Grizzlies at arm's length and keeping Butler away from big innings. The Grizzlies scored single runs in the second, third, fourth and fifth innings.Lake pitched her eighth complete game of the season. She allowed eight hits, four runs and five walks. She struck out five to surpass D.J. Cannon (2018) for second place on the Blue Dragon single-season strikeout list, becoming only the second Blue Dragon to strike out 200 batters in one season. Only Holly Kelley (2016) has more strikeouts in a season with 262.Leading 6-2 in fourth inning, the Blue Dragons stepped on the accelerator and pulled away from the Grizzlies with a six-run fourth inning.Lies opened the inning with an RBI single that scored Mastin for a 7-2 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;then singled in two runs with a shot to shallow right-center for a 9-2 lead. Tami Lozoya then singled in a run, which was followed by an RBI fielder's choice by Sandoval and a bases-loaded walk to Mastin to build a 12-2 lead. The Dragons sent 13 batters to the in the fourth inning.Leading 12-4 entering the seventh inning, the Blue Dragons added four more runs produced by an&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/kealey_annie_xr9m">Annie Kealey</a>&nbsp;pinch-hit three-run double and a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;RBI groundout.Divis had her first career four-hit game, going 4 for 5 with a triple, three RBIs and two runs scored. Over the two championship games, Divis was 6 for 10 with four RBIs.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>, Sandoval, Lies and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;had two hits each.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;drove in three runs.Sandoval's first-inning double was a school-record double. She broke a tie with Madison Grimes with her 43rd career double.POSTGAME NOTES+ Hutchinson made its sixth appearance in the Region VI championship game, joining the 1987, 1992, 2017, 2018 and 2023 teams.+ With two hits in her first two at-bats on Monday,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;had a streak of 10 hits in 10 at-bats in the tournament.

🥎 Blue Dragons claim first region title since 1987

Lawrence Robert Steele, 80, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, passed away on March 29th, 2024 in Colorado Springs. &nbsp;

He was born on February 1st, 1944 to Mary Agnes and Robert Vernon Steele in Salina Kansas. Larry went to high school at Hutchinson High School. He went on to Hutchinson Junior College, and then Kansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering.

He worked as an Electrical Engineer for 45 years, beginning in the aviation industry with Beech Aircraft and Learjet in Wichita and finishing in the space industry at Allied Signal on Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs. He worked on numerous projects over the years. Some noteworthy projects include in-cabin instrumentation for John Denver’s Custom Learjet, extensive work in the Arctic Circle for national defense, and the establishment of what is now Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado. 

Larry enjoyed numerous hobbies, including amateur radio and motorsports.

Larry is survived by his wife, Sandy, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; his sons Matt and Jason (Chicago); and his grandchildren Felicia, Cassidy, Cohen, Anders, and Sullivan. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ann Steele of Olympia, Washington.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>Lawrence Robert Steele, 80, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, passed away on March 29th, 2024 in Colorado Springs. &nbsp;He was born on February 1st, 1944 to Mary Agnes and Robert Vernon Steele in Salina Kansas. Larry went to high school at Hutchinson High School. He went on to Hutchinson Junior College, and then Kansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering.He worked as an Electrical Engineer for 45 years, beginning in the aviation industry with Beech Aircraft and Learjet in Wichita and finishing in the space industry at Allied Signal on Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs. He worked on numerous projects over the years. Some noteworthy projects include in-cabin instrumentation for John Denver’s Custom Learjet, extensive work in the Arctic Circle for national defense, and the establishment of what is now Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado. Larry enjoyed numerous hobbies, including amateur radio and motorsports.Larry is survived by his wife, Sandy, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; his sons Matt and Jason (Chicago); and his grandchildren Felicia, Cassidy, Cohen, Anders, and Sullivan. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ann Steele of Olympia, Washington.&nbsp;&nbsp;