Bonnie M. Johnson, 93, died July 19, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born October 19, 1929, on Patterson Ranch, near Maitland, MO, to Rollie and Colene Margaret (Butzer) Landess.

On December 22, 1950, she married Daryl H. Johnson Sr., in Maitland. They had four children together, Daryl H. Johnson Jr., infant daughter (died at birth), Lorna B. Foster, and Jocelyn Elaine Johnson, who died in January, 1968. Later, Bonnie and Daryl got a divorce, but remained friends.

She attended North West Missouri State College after graduating from Maitland High School in 1947. Bonnie taught in Andrew and Holt County, MO schools for 9 years. She graduated from Missouri Southern State University in 1969.

Bonnie’s teaching career started in a single room school house. Nearby farmers would take turns driving Bonnie to the school house to teach their children ranging in age from 1st grade to 8th grade. She told her family of one particular instance where a farmer had to take Bonnie across the river. Later, Bonnie taught English and reading across the United States of America, including: Interlaken, NY; Gallup, NM; Blytheville, AR; and Neosho, MO. She retired from Neosho School District in 1994, teaching a total of 33 years. Bonnie’s love for teaching didn’t stop there - she was a substitute teacher for several years, tutored, and led the Volunteen program at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Bonnie found great joy leading the Volunteen program. She would throw pizza parties, give Christmas cards, write letters of recommendation so they could get scholarships, and no one went without a birthday gift.

Bonnie was a bookworm and a wordsmith. She was an avid reader. Scrabble was a hobby of Bonnie’s. It was always interesting to play with her. Bonnie’s grandchildren remember her bringing a 1950’s thesaurus to the game. If the word wasn’t in her thesaurus, it wasn’t a word. Bonnie enjoyed playing Word Search, Yahtzee (which she would often cheat during), and doing crossword puzzles. She liked to watch her old westerns on TV. Bonnie loved to have milk and cookies with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. There was always something sweet to eat at Grandma’s house. Bonnie will be remembered as a loving, loyal, and devoted mom, grandma, and great-grandma, with a forgiving spirit.

In 1973, she was named to Outstanding Elementary Teachers of America. Bonnie was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma (Alpha Epsilon Chapter) Teacher’s International Society, Neosho. Bonnie was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson.

Bonnie is survived by: daughter, Lorna B. (Frank) Foster, Hutchinson; son, Daryl H. Johnson Jr., Carthage, MO; grandchildren, Sean Johnson, Jocelyn M. Shank, Aaron Johnson, Amy Buford, Tony Johnson, Jocelyn C. Holmes, Sarah Crowe, and George Foster; 11 great-grandchildren; cousins, Freddie Butzer, Maitland, Jeannie Reed, St. Joseph, MO, and Janis Kay “Sis” Waggoner, California; nephew, Eric Landess, Kansas City, KS; nieces, Jannelle Landess, Washington, and Britte Landess, St. Joseph, MO.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; daughters, Jocelyn Elaine, and infant daughter, Baby Girl Johnson, who is buried on Chincoteague Island, VA; and brother, Billy Wayne Landess.

Cremation has taken place. Private graveside service will be at a later date in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Mound City, MO. Friends may sign the book from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690073751092.jpeg" alt="Bonnie Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Bonnie Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonnie M. Johnson, 93, died July 19, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born October 19, 1929, on Patterson Ranch, near Maitland, MO, to Rollie and Colene Margaret (Butzer) Landess.On December 22, 1950, she married Daryl H. Johnson Sr., in Maitland. They had four children together, Daryl H. Johnson Jr., infant daughter (died at birth), Lorna B. Foster, and Jocelyn Elaine Johnson, who died in January, 1968. Later, Bonnie and Daryl got a divorce, but remained friends.She attended North West Missouri State College after graduating from Maitland High School in 1947. Bonnie taught in Andrew and Holt County, MO schools for 9 years. She graduated from Missouri Southern State University in 1969.Bonnie’s teaching career started in a single room school house. Nearby farmers would take turns driving Bonnie to the school house to teach their children ranging in age from 1st grade to 8th grade. She told her family of one particular instance where a farmer had to take Bonnie across the river. Later, Bonnie taught English and reading across the United States of America, including: Interlaken, NY; Gallup, NM; Blytheville, AR; and Neosho, MO. She retired from Neosho School District in 1994, teaching a total of 33 years. Bonnie’s love for teaching didn’t stop there - she was a substitute teacher for several years, tutored, and led the Volunteen program at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Bonnie found great joy leading the Volunteen program. She would throw pizza parties, give Christmas cards, write letters of recommendation so they could get scholarships, and no one went without a birthday gift.Bonnie was a bookworm and a wordsmith. She was an avid reader. Scrabble was a hobby of Bonnie’s. It was always interesting to play with her. Bonnie’s grandchildren remember her bringing a 1950’s thesaurus to the game. If the word wasn’t in her thesaurus, it wasn’t a word. Bonnie enjoyed playing Word Search, Yahtzee (which she would often cheat during), and doing crossword puzzles. She liked to watch her old westerns on TV. Bonnie loved to have milk and cookies with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. There was always something sweet to eat at Grandma’s house. Bonnie will be remembered as a loving, loyal, and devoted mom, grandma, and great-grandma, with a forgiving spirit.In 1973, she was named to Outstanding Elementary Teachers of America. Bonnie was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma (Alpha Epsilon Chapter) Teacher’s International Society, Neosho. Bonnie was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson.Bonnie is survived by: daughter, Lorna B. (Frank) Foster, Hutchinson; son, Daryl H. Johnson Jr., Carthage, MO; grandchildren, Sean Johnson, Jocelyn M. Shank, Aaron Johnson, Amy Buford, Tony Johnson, Jocelyn C. Holmes, Sarah Crowe, and George Foster; 11 great-grandchildren; cousins, Freddie Butzer, Maitland, Jeannie Reed, St. Joseph, MO, and Janis Kay “Sis” Waggoner, California; nephew, Eric Landess, Kansas City, KS; nieces, Jannelle Landess, Washington, and Britte Landess, St. Joseph, MO.She was preceded in death by: her parents; daughters, Jocelyn Elaine, and infant daughter, Baby Girl Johnson, who is buried on Chincoteague Island, VA; and brother, Billy Wayne Landess.Cremation has taken place. Private graveside service will be at a later date in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Mound City, MO. Friends may sign the book from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Bonnie M. Johnson |1929-2023|

Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita State head softball coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/kristi-bredbenner/1072">Kristi Bredbenner</a>&nbsp;completed her coaching staff for the 2024 season with the addition of Easton Herring. Herring will serve as the defensive coach for the Shockers after a year at Austin&nbsp;Peay&nbsp;as the defensive coach/assistant coach. "We are thrilled to welcome Easton, Tara and their newborn son Kannon to the Shocker Softball family," Bredbenner said. "Easton's energy and passion for coaching has been evident since he made the transition from baseball to softball. I look forward to seeing what he can do on the recruiting trail and the impact he will make within our program." Prior to Austin&nbsp;Peay, Herring served as a volunteer assistant and catching/outfield coordinator and first base coach for nationally ranked Virginia Tech. He also was tasked with developing scouting reports for the Top-10 ranked&nbsp;Hokies, who finished with a 46-10 record, including 14 wins over Top-25 ranked opponents, and hosted both an NCAA Regional and Super Regional. During his one season at Virginia Tech, the&nbsp;Hokies&nbsp;had a conference-high 11 members on the All-Atlantic Coast Conference teams. Before his time at Virginia Tech, Herring spent one season as a volunteer assistant coach for the Wichita State baseball program serving as the catching/outfield coordinator. As a volunteer assistant in 2021, Herring helped guide the Shockers to a 31-23 overall record and 18-13 mark in the American Athletic Conference, with the conference win total being a program-high since joining the AAC before the 2018 season. In addition, the Shockers had five players named All-Conference First Team, including Freshman All-American and Newcomer Pitcher of the Year, Jace&nbsp;Kaminska, reliever Aaron Haase, infielders Paxton Wallace and Garrett&nbsp;Kocis, and outfielder Corrigan Bartlett. A native of Pratt, Kan., Herring also served as a graduate manager for WSU from 2018-2020 before being elevated to volunteer assistant coach. Prior to arriving at Wichita State in 2018, he attended and played two seasons of baseball at Newman University. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Newman in December 2018 and received his master's degree in sport management from Wichita State in May 2020. Herring also served as the head coach for the Hutchinson Monarchs in the summer of 2020 in the Sunflower Collegiate League and helped lead the team to a third-place finish in the NBC World Series (highest in team history) and their first SCL league championship with a 32-8 overall record. Herring is a 2013 graduate of Pratt High School, and attended both Southeast Community College in Beatrice, Neb. and Seward County Community College. He and his wife, Tara, reside in Wichita with their son, Kannon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689952909022.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita State head softball coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/kristi-bredbenner/1072">Kristi Bredbenner</a>&nbsp;completed her coaching staff for the 2024 season with the addition of Easton Herring. Herring will serve as the defensive coach for the Shockers after a year at Austin&nbsp;Peay&nbsp;as the defensive coach/assistant coach. "We are thrilled to welcome Easton, Tara and their newborn son Kannon to the Shocker Softball family," Bredbenner said. "Easton's energy and passion for coaching has been evident since he made the transition from baseball to softball. I look forward to seeing what he can do on the recruiting trail and the impact he will make within our program." Prior to Austin&nbsp;Peay, Herring served as a volunteer assistant and catching/outfield coordinator and first base coach for nationally ranked Virginia Tech. He also was tasked with developing scouting reports for the Top-10 ranked&nbsp;Hokies, who finished with a 46-10 record, including 14 wins over Top-25 ranked opponents, and hosted both an NCAA Regional and Super Regional. During his one season at Virginia Tech, the&nbsp;Hokies&nbsp;had a conference-high 11 members on the All-Atlantic Coast Conference teams. Before his time at Virginia Tech, Herring spent one season as a volunteer assistant coach for the Wichita State baseball program serving as the catching/outfield coordinator. As a volunteer assistant in 2021, Herring helped guide the Shockers to a 31-23 overall record and 18-13 mark in the American Athletic Conference, with the conference win total being a program-high since joining the AAC before the 2018 season. In addition, the Shockers had five players named All-Conference First Team, including Freshman All-American and Newcomer Pitcher of the Year, Jace&nbsp;Kaminska, reliever Aaron Haase, infielders Paxton Wallace and Garrett&nbsp;Kocis, and outfielder Corrigan Bartlett. A native of Pratt, Kan., Herring also served as a graduate manager for WSU from 2018-2020 before being elevated to volunteer assistant coach. Prior to arriving at Wichita State in 2018, he attended and played two seasons of baseball at Newman University. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Newman in December 2018 and received his master's degree in sport management from Wichita State in May 2020. Herring also served as the head coach for the Hutchinson Monarchs in the summer of 2020 in the Sunflower Collegiate League and helped lead the team to a third-place finish in the NBC World Series (highest in team history) and their first SCL league championship with a 32-8 overall record. Herring is a 2013 graduate of Pratt High School, and attended both Southeast Community College in Beatrice, Neb. and Seward County Community College. He and his wife, Tara, reside in Wichita with their son, Kannon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 Pratt native completes WSU coaching staff

Robert Wayne “Bob” Williams, 71, of Hutchinson, died July 18, 2023, at Hospice House. He was born February 11, 1952, in St. Joseph, MO, to Howard and Charlyne (Kerns) Williams.

Bob attended schools in St. Joseph, Buhler High School, and Hutchinson Community College. He was a lumber broker for many years for Sitco Lumber, specializing in exotic hardwoods, and he also sold real estate with his wife, Debbi. Bob was most recently employed as a para-professional at McCandless and Morgan elementary schools, where he always had a “joke-of-the-day” to share and was affectionately known as “Mr. Bob.” Bob enjoyed gardening, fishing, woodworking, golf, and tinkering in his garage - he was never not busy. Bob was a member of Crossroads Christian Church.

On February 8, 1969, he married Debbi Sue Flanders, in Hutchinson. She survives.

Also surviving are: his daughters, Shanan Stewart (Wesley), Misti Loyle (Todd), both of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Whitney Deitchler of Hutchinson, Caleb Stewart (Lacie) of Salina, Bailee Stewart, Noah Davis, Harley Loyle, all of Hutchinson; great-grandchildren, Laettner and Langdyn Deitchler; siblings, Ed Williams (Marsha) of Kingman, Steve Williams (Sherry) of Lebanon, MO, Cindy Schmitt (Phil) of Kanopolis, Tammy Stanley (Jason) of Hutchinson; and many extended family members.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Wiley Stewart.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Crossroads Christian Church, 4310 N. Monroe. The service will be livestreamed on the church’s website, ccchutch.com.

Friends may sign the memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bob Williams Memorial Fund (for Laettner and Langdyn’s education), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689849650284.jpeg" alt="Bob Williams" />
 <figcaption>Bob Williams</figcaption>
 </figure>Robert Wayne “Bob” Williams, 71, of Hutchinson, died July 18, 2023, at Hospice House. He was born February 11, 1952, in St. Joseph, MO, to Howard and Charlyne (Kerns) Williams.Bob attended schools in St. Joseph, Buhler High School, and Hutchinson Community College. He was a lumber broker for many years for Sitco Lumber, specializing in exotic hardwoods, and he also sold real estate with his wife, Debbi. Bob was most recently employed as a para-professional at McCandless and Morgan elementary schools, where he always had a “joke-of-the-day” to share and was affectionately known as “Mr. Bob.” Bob enjoyed gardening, fishing, woodworking, golf, and tinkering in his garage - he was never not busy. Bob was a member of Crossroads Christian Church.On February 8, 1969, he married Debbi Sue Flanders, in Hutchinson. She survives.Also surviving are: his daughters, Shanan Stewart (Wesley), Misti Loyle (Todd), both of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Whitney Deitchler of Hutchinson, Caleb Stewart (Lacie) of Salina, Bailee Stewart, Noah Davis, Harley Loyle, all of Hutchinson; great-grandchildren, Laettner and Langdyn Deitchler; siblings, Ed Williams (Marsha) of Kingman, Steve Williams (Sherry) of Lebanon, MO, Cindy Schmitt (Phil) of Kanopolis, Tammy Stanley (Jason) of Hutchinson; and many extended family members.Bob was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Wiley Stewart.Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Crossroads Christian Church, 4310 N. Monroe. The service will be livestreamed on the church’s website, ccchutch.com.Friends may sign the memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bob Williams Memorial Fund (for Laettner and Langdyn’s education), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Robert Wayne “Bob” Williams |1952-2023|

Harrison Martin is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.

Your family: My mom, Alison, my dad, Robert, my brother Wayne, my sister, Kaitlyn

Town and school you attend: Portadown College

What do you like to do: Play rugby, go to the gym, do water sports and snow skiing.

Favorite singer or group: Maroon 5 and Coldplay

What is something people would not know about Portadown: Rory Best (Ireland international) attended Portadown College.

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: The activities that we do as a group.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688475993693.jpeg" alt="Harrison Martin-2023 Hutch Ulster Project" />
 <figcaption>Harrison Martin-2023 Hutch Ulster Project</figcaption>
 </figure>Harrison Martin is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.Your family: My mom, Alison, my dad, Robert, my brother Wayne, my sister, KaitlynTown and school you attend: Portadown CollegeWhat do you like to do: Play rugby, go to the gym, do water sports and snow skiing.Favorite singer or group: Maroon 5 and ColdplayWhat is something people would not know about Portadown: Rory Best (Ireland international) attended Portadown College.What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: The activities that we do as a group.What is your favorite meal: Pizza

Ulster Project Hutch: Harrison Martin

Ronan McComb is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.

Your family: My mom, Aodhan, my dad, Sean, Fontany

Town and school you attend: St. Ronan's College, Lurgan

What do you like to do: Swimming, cycling, water sports

Favorite singer or group: Miley Cyrus, U2, The Sawdoctors, Cranberries, Lizzo

What is something people would not know about Portadown: The local school St. John the Baptist, through the medium of English and Irish

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: I'm excited to participate in the activities planned by the leaders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688476436983.jpeg" alt="Ronan McComb-2023 Hutch Ulster Project" />
 <figcaption>Ronan McComb-2023 Hutch Ulster Project</figcaption>
 </figure>Ronan McComb is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.Your family: My mom, Aodhan, my dad, Sean, FontanyTown and school you attend: St. Ronan's College, LurganWhat do you like to do: Swimming, cycling, water sportsFavorite singer or group: Miley Cyrus, U2, The Sawdoctors, Cranberries, LizzoWhat is something people would not know about Portadown: The local school St. John the Baptist, through the medium of English and IrishWhat are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: I'm excited to participate in the activities planned by the leaders.What is your favorite meal: Bacon Butty

Ulster Project Hutch: Ronan McComb

Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports Information

A total of 62 Hutchinson Community College student-athletes and five Blue Dragon teams earned NJCAA All-Academic honors for the 2022-23 academic season.

The Blue Dragons had 17 athletes on the NJCAA's first-team list, which represents student athletes with 4.00 grade-point averages. The Blue Dragons had 19 athletes on the second team, which represents grades of 3.80 to 3.99. The Blue Dragons had 26 all-academic third-team student-athletes with GPAs ranking from 3.60 to 3.79.

Eleven student athletes from the pool of 62 earned honors in multiple sports. Each of the Blue Dragons' 12 intercollegiate athletic teams had multiple student-athletes honored this season.

Blue Dragon Volleyball and Softball tied for program-high team GPAs with an aggregate 3.51. Women's Basketball amassed a 3.45 team GPA. Men's Golf tallied a 3.41 team GPA and Blue Dragon Baseball accounted for an aggregate 3.35 team GPA.

To earn team GPA awards, a team must have an aggregate 3.00 GPA to qualify.

Here is a list of the 62 Blue Dragon student-athletes to earn NJCAA All-Academic honors for the 2022-23 academic season:

FIRST TEAM (4.00 GPA) Alejandra Briseno; Jalisco, Mexico – Volleyball Kernan Bundy; Overland Park, KS – Men's Basketball Chloe Conway; Concordia, KS – Volleyball Anna Dean; Oswego, KS – Volleyball Perline Fery; France – Volleyball Jayden Garrison; Little River, KS – Men's Basketball Madison Grimes; Andale, KS – Softball Bree Horyna; Liberal, KS – Women's Basketball Preslee Irwin; Choctaw, OK – Softball Korri Lies; Cheney, KS – Softball Cabri Moore; Goddard, KS – Women's Soccer Natalie Payne; Lenexa, KS – Women's Basketball Blake Saffell; Wellington, KS – Men's Golf Allie Stipsits; Olathe, KS – Softball Michael Uhler; Lawrence, KS – Baseball Trevor Whiteman; Udall, KS – Football Sam Wragge; Lincoln, NE – Baseball

SECOND TEAM (3.80-3.99 GPA) Kael Babin; Gonzalez, LA – Baseball Douwe Bentsink; Winterswijk, The Netherlands – Men's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Julius Bolden; Wichita, KS – Football Colin Cymbalista; Pickering, Ontario, Canada – Baseball Ella Dougherty; Cross Timbers, MO – Softball Monae Duffy; Lafayette, LA – Women's Basketball Ethan Giesbrecht; Altona, Manitoba, Canada – Baseball Aspen Goetz; Rose Hill, KS – Softball Morgan Harvey; Hoyt, KS – Volleyball Cole Hillman, ;Pella, IA – Baseball Gracie Lambert; Lindsborg, KS – Women's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Victoria Lewis; Brisbane, Australia – Women's Basketball Caleb Manning; Kansas City, MO – Men's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Baylee Miller; Wichita, KS – Volleyball Sam Ojeda; Roca, NE – Baseball Morgan Pennycuff; Augusta, KS – Softball Christian Powell; Keller, TX – Baseball Leata Te-Nana Williams; Auckland, New Zealand – Women's Basketball Cooper Wesslund; Lincoln, NE – Baseball

THIRD TEAM (3.60-3.79 GPA) Tokiwa Armstrong; Burrton, KS – Men's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Blake Bradford; Sylvania, OH – Baseball Hayleigh Burke; Hanston, KS – Women's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Adriana Delgado; Wichita, KS – Women's Soccer Will Edmunson; Luther, OK – Baseball Louis Galvin; Cort Muster, Ireland – Men's Golf Lorena Gomes; Belo Horizonte, Brazil – Women's Soccer Jacob Hadden; Georgetown, TX – Baseball Dayza Holliman; Wichita, KS – Women's Soccer Carter Holstein; Denham Springs, LA – Baseball Alexander Holt; Lago Vista, TX – Men's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Hayley Hughes; Kingman, KS – Women's Basketball Hayden Keller; Buhler, KS – Men's Indoor Track and Field James Knowles; Laytonville, MD – Men's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Serenity Larson; Dodge City, KS – Women's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Liberty Limon; Hutchinson, KS – Women's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Ashlyn Long; Smith Center, KS – Volleyball Max Maholland; Wichita, KS – Baseball Trey McClure; Lyons, KS – Men's Basketball Giovanna Ravanhani; Sao Paulo, Brazil – Volleyball Darby Roper; Haven, KS – Football Olivia Sandoval; Newton, KS – Softball Ellie Van Zelfden; Whitewater, KS – Women's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Riley Wertz; Wichita, KS – Softball Aidyn White; Hutchinson, KS – Women's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Mya Williams; Waxahachie, TX – Women's Basketball

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689762283362.jpeg" alt="NJCAA All-Academic" />
 <figcaption>NJCAA All-Academic</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports Information A total of 62 Hutchinson Community College student-athletes and five Blue Dragon teams earned NJCAA All-Academic honors for the 2022-23 academic season.The Blue Dragons had 17 athletes on the NJCAA's first-team list, which represents student athletes with 4.00 grade-point averages. The Blue Dragons had 19 athletes on the second team, which represents grades of 3.80 to 3.99. The Blue Dragons had 26 all-academic third-team student-athletes with GPAs ranking from 3.60 to 3.79.Eleven student athletes from the pool of 62 earned honors in multiple sports. Each of the Blue Dragons' 12 intercollegiate athletic teams had multiple student-athletes honored this season.Blue Dragon Volleyball and Softball tied for program-high team GPAs with an aggregate 3.51. Women's Basketball amassed a 3.45 team GPA. Men's Golf tallied a 3.41 team GPA and Blue Dragon Baseball accounted for an aggregate 3.35 team GPA.To earn team GPA awards, a team must have an aggregate 3.00 GPA to qualify.Here is a list of the 62 Blue Dragon student-athletes to earn NJCAA All-Academic honors for the 2022-23 academic season:FIRST TEAM (4.00 GPA) Alejandra Briseno; Jalisco, Mexico – Volleyball Kernan Bundy; Overland Park, KS – Men's Basketball Chloe Conway; Concordia, KS – Volleyball Anna Dean; Oswego, KS – Volleyball Perline Fery; France – Volleyball Jayden Garrison; Little River, KS – Men's Basketball Madison Grimes; Andale, KS – Softball Bree Horyna; Liberal, KS – Women's Basketball Preslee Irwin; Choctaw, OK – Softball Korri Lies; Cheney, KS – Softball Cabri Moore; Goddard, KS – Women's Soccer Natalie Payne; Lenexa, KS – Women's Basketball Blake Saffell; Wellington, KS – Men's Golf Allie Stipsits; Olathe, KS – Softball Michael Uhler; Lawrence, KS – Baseball Trevor Whiteman; Udall, KS – Football Sam Wragge; Lincoln, NE – BaseballSECOND TEAM (3.80-3.99 GPA) Kael Babin; Gonzalez, LA – Baseball Douwe Bentsink; Winterswijk, The Netherlands – Men's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Julius Bolden; Wichita, KS – Football Colin Cymbalista; Pickering, Ontario, Canada – Baseball Ella Dougherty; Cross Timbers, MO – Softball Monae Duffy; Lafayette, LA – Women's Basketball Ethan Giesbrecht; Altona, Manitoba, Canada – Baseball Aspen Goetz; Rose Hill, KS – Softball Morgan Harvey; Hoyt, KS – Volleyball Cole Hillman, ;Pella, IA – Baseball Gracie Lambert; Lindsborg, KS – Women's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Victoria Lewis; Brisbane, Australia – Women's Basketball Caleb Manning; Kansas City, MO – Men's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Baylee Miller; Wichita, KS – Volleyball Sam Ojeda; Roca, NE – Baseball Morgan Pennycuff; Augusta, KS – Softball Christian Powell; Keller, TX – Baseball Leata Te-Nana Williams; Auckland, New Zealand – Women's Basketball Cooper Wesslund; Lincoln, NE – BaseballTHIRD TEAM (3.60-3.79 GPA) Tokiwa Armstrong; Burrton, KS – Men's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Blake Bradford; Sylvania, OH – Baseball Hayleigh Burke; Hanston, KS – Women's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Adriana Delgado; Wichita, KS – Women's Soccer Will Edmunson; Luther, OK – Baseball Louis Galvin; Cort Muster, Ireland – Men's Golf Lorena Gomes; Belo Horizonte, Brazil – Women's Soccer Jacob Hadden; Georgetown, TX – Baseball Dayza Holliman; Wichita, KS – Women's Soccer Carter Holstein; Denham Springs, LA – Baseball Alexander Holt; Lago Vista, TX – Men's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Hayley Hughes; Kingman, KS – Women's Basketball Hayden Keller; Buhler, KS – Men's Indoor Track and Field James Knowles; Laytonville, MD – Men's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Serenity Larson; Dodge City, KS – Women's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Liberty Limon; Hutchinson, KS – Women's Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Ashlyn Long; Smith Center, KS – Volleyball Max Maholland; Wichita, KS – Baseball Trey McClure; Lyons, KS – Men's Basketball Giovanna Ravanhani; Sao Paulo, Brazil – Volleyball Darby Roper; Haven, KS – Football Olivia Sandoval; Newton, KS – Softball Ellie Van Zelfden; Whitewater, KS – Women's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Riley Wertz; Wichita, KS – Softball Aidyn White; Hutchinson, KS – Women's Cross Country/Indoor Track and Field/Outdoor Track and Field Mya Williams; Waxahachie, TX – Women's Basketball

62 HutchCC Blue Dragons, 5 teams earn NJCAA All-Adademic Honors

Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports Information

Former Hutchinson Community College pitcher L.J. McDonough became the 53rd Blue Dragon in program history to reach the professional level when he signed an undrafted free-agent contract with the Atlanta Braves on Monday.

McDonough pitched for two seasons, mostly out of the bullpen, for the Blue Dragons in 2019 and 2020. He then spent two seasons at Wichita State University before transferring to Florida Gulf Coast University for his final season of eligibility in 2023.

McDonough is a hard-throwing 6-foot-4, 200-pound pitcher from Blanchard, Oklahoma. He was one of five players signed by the Braves as undrafted free agents (UDFAs) on Monday.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/History/BASE_Drafted_Players">CLICK FOR ALL FORMER BLUE DRAGONS WHO WERE DRAFTED OR SIGNED BY MLB TEAMS</a>

McDonough's freshman season had its ups and downs at Hutchinson. He made 15 appearances, including five starts, going 1-2 with one save and a 6.97 earned-run average. He struck out 53 in 31 innings, but allowed 30 hits, 30 runs and 25 walks for the 2019 Jayhawk West champion and Region VI runner-up Blue Dragons.

The 2020 season was much-improved for McDonough, but that season was cut short by the Coronavirus pandemic. In six appearances and 8 2-3 innings in 2020, McDonough was 1-0 with a 3.12 ERA and 20 strikeouts.

At Wichita State in 2021, McDonough made 16 appearances, going 1-0 with a 2.49 ERA. He was selected an NCAA Academic All-American. In 2022, McDonough was 3-2 with a 7.40 ERA in 17 appearances with the Shockers.

As Florida Gulf Coast's closer this past season, McDonough had an exceptional season going 7-2 with six saves in 20 appearances. He posted a collegiate career low 2.47 ERA and struck out 61 on 47 1-3 innings.

McDonough is the first Blue Dragon to sign an undrafted free-agent contract since Cole Donaldson signed with the Minnesota Twins after the 2019 season and he is the 14th Blue Dragon to sign a UDFA. A total of 39 Blue Dragons have been drafted by Major League teams since the program began in 1985.

The Blue Dragons have had at least one player drafted or signed in three-straight and 9 of the past 10 seasons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689762006292.jpeg" alt="McDonough signs with Braves" />
 <figcaption>McDonough signs with Braves</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports InformationFormer Hutchinson Community College pitcher L.J. McDonough became the 53rd Blue Dragon in program history to reach the professional level when he signed an undrafted free-agent contract with the Atlanta Braves on Monday.McDonough pitched for two seasons, mostly out of the bullpen, for the Blue Dragons in 2019 and 2020. He then spent two seasons at Wichita State University before transferring to Florida Gulf Coast University for his final season of eligibility in 2023.McDonough is a hard-throwing 6-foot-4, 200-pound pitcher from Blanchard, Oklahoma. He was one of five players signed by the Braves as undrafted free agents (UDFAs) on Monday.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/History/BASE_Drafted_Players">CLICK FOR ALL FORMER BLUE DRAGONS WHO WERE DRAFTED OR SIGNED BY MLB TEAMS</a>McDonough's freshman season had its ups and downs at Hutchinson. He made 15 appearances, including five starts, going 1-2 with one save and a 6.97 earned-run average. He struck out 53 in 31 innings, but allowed 30 hits, 30 runs and 25 walks for the 2019 Jayhawk West champion and Region VI runner-up Blue Dragons.The 2020 season was much-improved for McDonough, but that season was cut short by the Coronavirus pandemic. In six appearances and 8 2-3 innings in 2020, McDonough was 1-0 with a 3.12 ERA and 20 strikeouts.At Wichita State in 2021, McDonough made 16 appearances, going 1-0 with a 2.49 ERA. He was selected an NCAA Academic All-American. In 2022, McDonough was 3-2 with a 7.40 ERA in 17 appearances with the Shockers.As Florida Gulf Coast's closer this past season, McDonough had an exceptional season going 7-2 with six saves in 20 appearances. He posted a collegiate career low 2.47 ERA and struck out 61 on 47 1-3 innings.McDonough is the first Blue Dragon to sign an undrafted free-agent contract since Cole Donaldson signed with the Minnesota Twins after the 2019 season and he is the 14th Blue Dragon to sign a UDFA. A total of 39 Blue Dragons have been drafted by Major League teams since the program began in 1985.The Blue Dragons have had at least one player drafted or signed in three-straight and 9 of the past 10 seasons.

⚾ McDonough signs UDFA contract with Braves

Glenda Fountain, 82, beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2023, at Prairie Sunset Home, Pretty Prairie. She was born June 13, 1941, in Barstow, TX, to Jack E. and Ruth Uldene (Farrar) Hudgens.

Glenda grew up in Pecos, TX, with her parents, three sisters, and two brothers. After graduating from Pecos High School in 1959, her family moved to Odessa, TX, and on a visit back to Pecos, Glenda met her husband of 63 years, Budd Fountain. They married on May 14, 1960, and moved thirteen times during their marriage, living in several west Texas towns in their early marriage, three different towns in Nebraska, Temple, TX, Huron, SD, Stillwater, OK, and their final location, Langdon, KS.

Glenda worked in the banking industry for many years - as a secretary, teller, loan officer, and bookkeeper. She was a devoted mother to her children, Lori and Lance, and put their needs ahead of her own, supporting them through college and beyond.&nbsp;

Glenda leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and friendship that will forever be treasured by those who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends. Her warm and joking nature was one you wouldn’t forget, and you always knew what she was thinking. Glenda loved Texas bluebonnets, Mexican food, George Strait, and anything related to Texas A&amp;M University.

She is survived by: her husband, Budd; daughter, Lori (Fred) Riethmiller, and their two children, Hagan and Jillian; son, Lance (Stephanie) Fountain; grandchildren, Blaise (Sydney) Fountain and Braden Fountain; two precious great-grandchildren, Waylon and Goldie; and two sisters, Martralle Morton and Tawana (Billy Ross) Williams.

Glenda was preceded in death by: her parents; sister, Uldene Davis; and brothers, Lavon and Doyle Hudgens.

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be 10 a.m. Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Elliott Chapel. Private family inurnment will take place in Lerado Cemetery.

The service will be livestreamed and the link to view it below will be active 15 minutes prior to the start of the service.

<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTY4OTYzODc1NTI2MjEwNyZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==">Click here to view the service</a>

Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, with the family present to receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any charitable donations be made in her memory to Prairie Sunset Home, an organization that was close to her heart, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689700824191.jpeg" alt="Fountain" />
 <figcaption>Fountain</figcaption>
 </figure>Glenda Fountain, 82, beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2023, at Prairie Sunset Home, Pretty Prairie. She was born June 13, 1941, in Barstow, TX, to Jack E. and Ruth Uldene (Farrar) Hudgens.Glenda grew up in Pecos, TX, with her parents, three sisters, and two brothers. After graduating from Pecos High School in 1959, her family moved to Odessa, TX, and on a visit back to Pecos, Glenda met her husband of 63 years, Budd Fountain. They married on May 14, 1960, and moved thirteen times during their marriage, living in several west Texas towns in their early marriage, three different towns in Nebraska, Temple, TX, Huron, SD, Stillwater, OK, and their final location, Langdon, KS.Glenda worked in the banking industry for many years - as a secretary, teller, loan officer, and bookkeeper. She was a devoted mother to her children, Lori and Lance, and put their needs ahead of her own, supporting them through college and beyond.&nbsp;Glenda leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and friendship that will forever be treasured by those who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends. Her warm and joking nature was one you wouldn’t forget, and you always knew what she was thinking. Glenda loved Texas bluebonnets, Mexican food, George Strait, and anything related to Texas A&amp;M University.She is survived by: her husband, Budd; daughter, Lori (Fred) Riethmiller, and their two children, Hagan and Jillian; son, Lance (Stephanie) Fountain; grandchildren, Blaise (Sydney) Fountain and Braden Fountain; two precious great-grandchildren, Waylon and Goldie; and two sisters, Martralle Morton and Tawana (Billy Ross) Williams.Glenda was preceded in death by: her parents; sister, Uldene Davis; and brothers, Lavon and Doyle Hudgens.A memorial service to celebrate her life will be 10 a.m. Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Elliott Chapel. Private family inurnment will take place in Lerado Cemetery.The service will be livestreamed and the link to view it below will be active 15 minutes prior to the start of the service.<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTY4OTYzODc1NTI2MjEwNyZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==">Click here to view the service</a>Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, with the family present to receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any charitable donations be made in her memory to Prairie Sunset Home, an organization that was close to her heart, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear.”

Glenda Fountain |1941-2023|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emancipation Day Committee has updated the weekend's schedule of events for August 4-6 in Hutchinson.

Events will begin Friday night August 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Rice Park.

Bring your dinner and lawn chairs and there will be family fun and entertainment with basketball, horseshoes, cornhole, pickleball, other games and music, along with a 3-point shootout from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Jazz in the Park will be at Avenue A Park from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday.

Saturday kicks off with the Emancipation Day parade headed north on Main Street from Ave. B to 12th Avenue starting at 10 a.m.

The parade marshall will give an address at Stringer Fine Arts Center at noon on Saturday.

There will be a free community picnic in the Gallery Theatre and on the college lawn at 600 East 11th at 12:30 p.m. Saturday.

The annual Emancipation Dance will be Saturday night at the Encampment Building at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Dillon Hall from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Sunday will be the annual Gospelfest and Ice Cream Social at 3 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center and the Gallery Theatre.

For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Hutchinsonemancipation@gmail.com">Hutchinsonemancipation@gmail.com</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687798314470.jpeg" alt="Emancipation Day Photo Courtesy Emancipation Day Committee" />
 <figcaption>Emancipation Day Photo Courtesy Emancipation Day Committee</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emancipation Day Committee has updated the weekend's schedule of events for August 4-6 in Hutchinson.Events will begin Friday night August 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Rice Park.Bring your dinner and lawn chairs and there will be family fun and entertainment with basketball, horseshoes, cornhole, pickleball, other games and music, along with a 3-point shootout from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.Jazz in the Park will be at Avenue A Park from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday.Saturday kicks off with the Emancipation Day parade headed north on Main Street from Ave. B to 12th Avenue starting at 10 a.m.The parade marshall will give an address at Stringer Fine Arts Center at noon on Saturday.There will be a free community picnic in the Gallery Theatre and on the college lawn at 600 East 11th at 12:30 p.m. Saturday.The annual Emancipation Dance will be Saturday night at the Encampment Building at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Dillon Hall from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.Sunday will be the annual Gospelfest and Ice Cream Social at 3 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center and the Gallery Theatre.For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Hutchinsonemancipation@gmail.com">Hutchinsonemancipation@gmail.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Emancipation celebration schedule updated

The 50th annual Kansas Shrine Bowl all-star football game will take place on Saturday at Lewis Field Stadium on the campus of Fort Hays State University. The west team will have eight players from the Reno County area that will have the opportunity to represent their high school one final time. The game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. and will be televised on COX, Smoky Hills PBS, and Spectrum Sports.

Below are the area representatives listed in alphabetical order by school

JAKE PROCTOR (HESSTON) • 6-4 • 190 • WR/DB *2x all-state WR/DB 
*Unanimous all-league WR/DB 
*3x basketball state champion 
*2x all-state selection 
*2023 3A Player of the Year 
*Signed to play basketball at Tabor College and will major in education 
*Favorite high school football moment: "Winning home playoff game vs. Marysville
in 2022." 
*Favorite high school memory: "Winning back-to-back basketball titles." 
*Biggest takeaway from playing for coach Bauerle: "Commitment and
consistency is better than being motivated. Early in HS coach Bauerle had some
problems with his neck and had to be in a neck brace, but he was at practice
everyday he could be, pushing us to be not only the best football players we
could be, but the best men we could be." 
*What does it mean to you to play in the Shrine Bowl game: "It means a
lot. I’ve never really thought of myself as a football player so it’s awesome
to get this honor." 
*Have you ever attended the Shrine Bowl game? "I have not." 
*Any personal goals you want to accomplish in the game: "My goal is to just
be in the moment. And to stay healthy." 
*What will it mean to you to wear the Hesston helmet one final time: "It
means everything. It’ll be my last time representing the Swathers, so it means
a lot to me and the community."

NOAH KHOKHAR (HUTCHINSON) • 5-9 • 171 • WR *2022-23 Kansas FCA Male Athlete of the Year *First Team All-AVCTL I (RB) selection *KFBCA 5A All-State selection *VYPE Wichita Large School (6A-4A) Offensive Athlete selection *2023 Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson Youth of the Year runner-up *Signed to play football at Hutchinson Community College and major in sports psychology *Fall Homecoming King

ELI BRUNK (INMAN) • 6-3 • 190 • LB *KSHSAA Covered 1A All-State selection *Wichita Eagle Top 33 selection *First Team All-Heart of America (TE &amp; LB)&nbsp; *Sports in Kansas 1st Team 1A All-State selection *1A Defensive Player of the Year finalist *118 tackles (40 solo/78 assist), 8 sacks, 26 TFL *29 receptions, 510 yards, 7 TD&nbsp;&nbsp;

NOLAN FREUND (KINGMAN) • 6-0 • 188 • QB/DB *KPreps&nbsp;2022-23 Dylan Meier Get Busy Livin' Player of the Year *Passed for 2,110 yards w/ 27 TD &amp; 964 rushing yards w/ 14 TD *First Team All-Central Kansas League selection *District Offensive MVP *Holds 10 school records *All-State QB &amp; Punter *Kingman head coach Tanner Hageman will serve as West asst. coach *Signed to play baseball at Cloud County Community College&nbsp;

BRAXTON LAFFERTY (LITTLE RIVER) • 6-1 • 195 • ATH *Sports in Kansas 8M-I Defensive Player of the Year *Sports in Kansas First Team All-State selection *KSHSAA Covered First Team All-State (RB) *Circle of Stars - 8-Man Division I Player of the Year *Wichita Eagle First Team All-State offense &amp; HM defense *1,000 point scorer in basketball *Sports in Kansas Small-Classes Basketball Defensive Player of the Year *State qualifier in Triple Jump *Signed to play football at Fort Hays State University *Favorite high school football moment: "Winning state football." *Favorite high school memory: "Winning the sub-state championship my junior year in a high scoring shootout." *Biggest takeaway from playing for coach Kevin Ayers: "It’s more than football and your teammates are your family and when he did the one chip challenge after one of our games." *What does it mean to you to play in the Shrine Bowl Game: "Just a chance to show that there is talent at all levels and it shows that I can play with kids from bigger schools." *Do you have any relatives that have played in the game: "My uncle Seth Cordell and my grandpa Shane Cordell." *What will it mean to put on the Little River helmet one final time: "One last chance to represent my community and show that there is talent at all levels even at a small 8 man school."

SAM BECKER (McPHERSON) • 6-4 • 210 • TE/DE *Signed to play football at Friends University and will major in mechanical engineering *Favorite high school football moment: "Beating Ark City in the playoffs in the cold and rain." *Biggest takeaway from playing for coach Pavlovich: "You will get out what you put in." *What does it mean to you to play in the Shrine Bowl game: "It’s an honor to not only be selected off of how you play on the field but is an honor that I am able to participate in an organization to do better for those who are not given the chance." *What are you most looking forward to about the Shrine Bowl experience: "Meeting new players, coaches and patients." *Have you ever attended a Shrine Bowl game: "Yes, 2008 (I was only three years old)." *Do you have any relatives that have ever played in the game: "Yes, Jared Loomis in 2008." *What will it mean to you to wear the McPherson helmet one final time: "It will feel great that I am able to go out and compete one last time with my head coach and a fellow teammate."

RICKY PARGA (NEWTON)&nbsp;• 5-11&nbsp;• 265&nbsp;• DL *Second Team All-AVCTL

JOHN MARTINEZ (PRATT)&nbsp;• 5-9&nbsp;• 165&nbsp;• RB *First Team All-Central Kansas League selection (WR &amp; DB) *634 rushing yards, 5 TD *167 receiving yards, 4 TD *Signed to play football at Southwestern College

The Kansas Shrine Bowl is an all-star high school senior, East vs. West, football game put on each year in Kansas, by the Shrine Bowl of Kansas Inc. It is a 501(c) 3 non-profit charity that produces annual events and related activities, with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children’s. The Kansas Shrine Bowl has sent over $3.7M to Shriners Hospitals for Children. The game has been played throughout Kansas each summer since 1974. Host cities have included Lawrence, Manhattan, Wichita, Topeka, Hays, Emporia, Pittsburg, Dodge City and Hutchinson.&nbsp; Beginning in 1974, the flagship event has been the East/West All-Star Football Game. As of 2022, the West leads the series with 30 wins, the East has 17 wins, and there have been two ties. Current NFL alumni include Cody Whitehair (Chicago Bears).&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689015024760.png" alt="The 50th Kansas Shrine Bowl logo" />
 <figcaption>The 50th Kansas Shrine Bowl logo</figcaption>
 </figure>The 50th annual Kansas Shrine Bowl all-star football game will take place on Saturday at Lewis Field Stadium on the campus of Fort Hays State University. The west team will have eight players from the Reno County area that will have the opportunity to represent their high school one final time. The game is scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. and will be televised on COX, Smoky Hills PBS, and Spectrum Sports.Below are the area representatives listed in alphabetical order by school<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689004959130.png" alt="Jake Proctor (Pam Weaver Photography)" />
 <figcaption>Jake Proctor (Pam Weaver Photography)</figcaption>
 </figure>JAKE PROCTOR (HESSTON) • 6-4 • 190 • WR/DB *2x all-state WR/DB 
*Unanimous all-league WR/DB 
*3x basketball state champion 
*2x all-state selection 
*2023 3A Player of the Year 
*Signed to play basketball at Tabor College and will major in education 
*Favorite high school football moment: "Winning home playoff game vs. Marysville
in 2022." 
*Favorite high school memory: "Winning back-to-back basketball titles." 
*Biggest takeaway from playing for coach Bauerle: "Commitment and
consistency is better than being motivated. Early in HS coach Bauerle had some
problems with his neck and had to be in a neck brace, but he was at practice
everyday he could be, pushing us to be not only the best football players we
could be, but the best men we could be." 
*What does it mean to you to play in the Shrine Bowl game: "It means a
lot. I’ve never really thought of myself as a football player so it’s awesome
to get this honor." 
*Have you ever attended the Shrine Bowl game? "I have not." 
*Any personal goals you want to accomplish in the game: "My goal is to just
be in the moment. And to stay healthy." 
*What will it mean to you to wear the Hesston helmet one final time: "It
means everything. It’ll be my last time representing the Swathers, so it means
a lot to me and the community." <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689347307663.jpeg" alt="Noah Khokhar (Salthawk Athletics Twitter)" />
 <figcaption>Noah Khokhar (Salthawk Athletics Twitter)</figcaption>
 </figure>NOAH KHOKHAR (HUTCHINSON) • 5-9 • 171 • WR *2022-23 Kansas FCA Male Athlete of the Year *First Team All-AVCTL I (RB) selection *KFBCA 5A All-State selection *VYPE Wichita Large School (6A-4A) Offensive Athlete selection *2023 Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson Youth of the Year runner-up *Signed to play football at Hutchinson Community College and major in sports psychology *Fall Homecoming King<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689351037944.jpeg" alt="Eli Brunk (Inman USD 448)" />
 <figcaption>Eli Brunk (Inman USD 448)</figcaption>
 </figure>ELI BRUNK (INMAN) • 6-3 • 190 • LB *KSHSAA Covered 1A All-State selection *Wichita Eagle Top 33 selection *First Team All-Heart of America (TE &amp; LB)&nbsp; *Sports in Kansas 1st Team 1A All-State selection *1A Defensive Player of the Year finalist *118 tackles (40 solo/78 assist), 8 sacks, 26 TFL *29 receptions, 510 yards, 7 TD&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689351171600.jpeg" alt="Kingman QB Nolan Freund (Scott Paske/KSHSAA Covered)" />
 <figcaption>Kingman QB Nolan Freund (Scott Paske/KSHSAA Covered)</figcaption>
 </figure>NOLAN FREUND (KINGMAN) • 6-0 • 188 • QB/DB *KPreps&nbsp;2022-23 Dylan Meier Get Busy Livin' Player of the Year *Passed for 2,110 yards w/ 27 TD &amp; 964 rushing yards w/ 14 TD *First Team All-Central Kansas League selection *District Offensive MVP *Holds 10 school records *All-State QB &amp; Punter *Kingman head coach Tanner Hageman will serve as West asst. coach *Signed to play baseball at Cloud County Community College&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689351899895.jpeg" alt="Braxton Lafferty (Little River Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Braxton Lafferty (Little River Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>BRAXTON LAFFERTY (LITTLE RIVER) • 6-1 • 195 • ATH *Sports in Kansas 8M-I Defensive Player of the Year *Sports in Kansas First Team All-State selection *KSHSAA Covered First Team All-State (RB) *Circle of Stars - 8-Man Division I Player of the Year *Wichita Eagle First Team All-State offense &amp; HM defense *1,000 point scorer in basketball *Sports in Kansas Small-Classes Basketball Defensive Player of the Year *State qualifier in Triple Jump *Signed to play football at Fort Hays State University *Favorite high school football moment: "Winning state football." *Favorite high school memory: "Winning the sub-state championship my junior year in a high scoring shootout." *Biggest takeaway from playing for coach Kevin Ayers: "It’s more than football and your teammates are your family and when he did the one chip challenge after one of our games." *What does it mean to you to play in the Shrine Bowl Game: "Just a chance to show that there is talent at all levels and it shows that I can play with kids from bigger schools." *Do you have any relatives that have played in the game: "My uncle Seth Cordell and my grandpa Shane Cordell." *What will it mean to put on the Little River helmet one final time: "One last chance to represent my community and show that there is talent at all levels even at a small 8 man school."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689014689280.jpeg" alt="Sam Becker (McPhersonHSFB Twitter)" />
 <figcaption>Sam Becker (McPhersonHSFB Twitter)</figcaption>
 </figure>SAM BECKER (McPHERSON) • 6-4 • 210 • TE/DE *Signed to play football at Friends University and will major in mechanical engineering *Favorite high school football moment: "Beating Ark City in the playoffs in the cold and rain." *Biggest takeaway from playing for coach Pavlovich: "You will get out what you put in." *What does it mean to you to play in the Shrine Bowl game: "It’s an honor to not only be selected off of how you play on the field but is an honor that I am able to participate in an organization to do better for those who are not given the chance." *What are you most looking forward to about the Shrine Bowl experience: "Meeting new players, coaches and patients." *Have you ever attended a Shrine Bowl game: "Yes, 2008 (I was only three years old)." *Do you have any relatives that have ever played in the game: "Yes, Jared Loomis in 2008." *What will it mean to you to wear the McPherson helmet one final time: "It will feel great that I am able to go out and compete one last time with my head coach and a fellow teammate."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689358810353.png" alt="Ricky Parga (Newton Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Ricky Parga (Newton Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>RICKY PARGA (NEWTON)&nbsp;• 5-11&nbsp;• 265&nbsp;• DL *Second Team All-AVCTL <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689359178102.jpeg" alt="John Martinez (Bill Rea/Pratt)" />
 <figcaption>John Martinez (Bill Rea/Pratt)</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHN MARTINEZ (PRATT)&nbsp;• 5-9&nbsp;• 165&nbsp;• RB *First Team All-Central Kansas League selection (WR &amp; DB) *634 rushing yards, 5 TD *167 receiving yards, 4 TD *Signed to play football at Southwestern College The Kansas Shrine Bowl is an all-star high school senior, East vs. West, football game put on each year in Kansas, by the Shrine Bowl of Kansas Inc. It is a 501(c) 3 non-profit charity that produces annual events and related activities, with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children’s. The Kansas Shrine Bowl has sent over $3.7M to Shriners Hospitals for Children. The game has been played throughout Kansas each summer since 1974. Host cities have included Lawrence, Manhattan, Wichita, Topeka, Hays, Emporia, Pittsburg, Dodge City and Hutchinson.&nbsp; Beginning in 1974, the flagship event has been the East/West All-Star Football Game. As of 2022, the West leads the series with 30 wins, the East has 17 wins, and there have been two ties. Current NFL alumni include Cody Whitehair (Chicago Bears).&nbsp; &nbsp;

🏈 8 area grads to play in 50th Kansas Shrine Bowl game on Saturday in Hays

Coralou "Corky" Cooprider, 90, died July 11, 2023, at Showalter Villa, Hesston. She was born August 12, 1932, to William and Rosella Kornelson in Greensburg, KS. She graduated from Inman High School in 1950 attended Hutchinson Community College later in life. In 1952 she married Fred M. Cooprider and to this union was born two sons, Kevin Bradly and Coyne William.

After being a military wife for 4 years, the family moved to Lyons, KS, where Coralou was a member of the Lyons Christian Church. There she served as Sunday School teacher, Diaconate, choir member, and member of C.W.F., and various committees. In the community, she was involved in Meals on Wheels, Rice County Arts Council, Rice County Healthcare Foundation, Rice County Community Foundation, Boy Scouts, Lyons Chamber of Commerce, and served as Conservator for the District Court. She worked at the Lyons Federal Savings Bank and for 19 years at the Kansas State Fair.

Most recently she was living in Hesston and attended the Hesston Mennonite Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband Fred, son Kevin, siblings, Bob, Karen, and Zella, and her parents.

She is survived by her son, Coyne (Jodi) Cooprider, Haven; 4 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild; a brother, Ralph Kornelson, TX; and a sister-in-law, Lisa Kornelson, Colorado.

Visitation will be held 5-7PM Friday July 14, 2023, at Inman Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, July 15, 2023, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at North Inman Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to Harry Hynes Hospice, in care of the funeral home. To leave a condolence for the family visit: <a href="http://www.inmanfh.com">www.inmanfh.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689263228320.jpeg" alt="Coralou Cooprider" />
 <figcaption>Coralou Cooprider</figcaption>
 </figure>Coralou "Corky" Cooprider, 90, died July 11, 2023, at Showalter Villa, Hesston. She was born August 12, 1932, to William and Rosella Kornelson in Greensburg, KS. She graduated from Inman High School in 1950 attended Hutchinson Community College later in life. In 1952 she married Fred M. Cooprider and to this union was born two sons, Kevin Bradly and Coyne William.After being a military wife for 4 years, the family moved to Lyons, KS, where Coralou was a member of the Lyons Christian Church. There she served as Sunday School teacher, Diaconate, choir member, and member of C.W.F., and various committees. In the community, she was involved in Meals on Wheels, Rice County Arts Council, Rice County Healthcare Foundation, Rice County Community Foundation, Boy Scouts, Lyons Chamber of Commerce, and served as Conservator for the District Court. She worked at the Lyons Federal Savings Bank and for 19 years at the Kansas State Fair.Most recently she was living in Hesston and attended the Hesston Mennonite Church.She was preceded in death by her husband Fred, son Kevin, siblings, Bob, Karen, and Zella, and her parents.She is survived by her son, Coyne (Jodi) Cooprider, Haven; 4 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild; a brother, Ralph Kornelson, TX; and a sister-in-law, Lisa Kornelson, Colorado.Visitation will be held 5-7PM Friday July 14, 2023, at Inman Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, July 15, 2023, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at North Inman Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to Harry Hynes Hospice, in care of the funeral home. To leave a condolence for the family visit: <a href="http://www.inmanfh.com">www.inmanfh.com</a>.

Coralou "Corky" Cooprider |1932-2023|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The&nbsp;Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation is looking to bring back the long-time Hutchinson-based drum and bugle corps to the Salt City and the kickoff for the group is a clinic next week at Gowans Stadium.

"The Blue Devils are the 20-time reigning champion of Drum Corps International," said Dr. Jay Smith with the foundation. "They are the best of the best. They are the Kansas City Chiefs of DCI. They will come in and you will see excellence in terms of all the players are top notch. Most of them are college age students, like HCC students, who have reached the top of their game. The pageantry is stunning, the colors, the props they use and then of course, the sound."

The reason the Sky Ryders ultimately left Hutchinson was due to financial struggles, so Smith knows it will take some time to put together.

"What happened with the Sky Ryders in the 1990s was, the whole funding model became a bit antiquated," Smith said. "For example, the Sky Ryders had this bingo hall on 4th Street. Obviously, the activity now, like everything else in our country has just skyrocketed in terms of cost. The whole fundraising model that the Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation has is a little bit different and it requires fundraising on actually a national level, not just going to our alumni for financial support or for marching members for dues, fees, but we're talking corporate level sponsorships. That's already all begun."

The hope is to get the enthusiasm for the art form started again so that when the money is there, the players will be, too.

"We can only project timelines at this point," Smith said. "We're looking at a minimum of five years to seven years, actually. Having said that, the age out is 21."

The tentative schedule for Monday is as follows:

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689256315182.jpeg" alt="Blue Devils 2023-Image Courtesy Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps" />
 <figcaption>Blue Devils 2023-Image Courtesy Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The&nbsp;Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation is looking to bring back the long-time Hutchinson-based drum and bugle corps to the Salt City and the kickoff for the group is a clinic next week at Gowans Stadium."The Blue Devils are the 20-time reigning champion of Drum Corps International," said Dr. Jay Smith with the foundation. "They are the best of the best. They are the Kansas City Chiefs of DCI. They will come in and you will see excellence in terms of all the players are top notch. Most of them are college age students, like HCC students, who have reached the top of their game. The pageantry is stunning, the colors, the props they use and then of course, the sound."The reason the Sky Ryders ultimately left Hutchinson was due to financial struggles, so Smith knows it will take some time to put together."What happened with the Sky Ryders in the 1990s was, the whole funding model became a bit antiquated," Smith said. "For example, the Sky Ryders had this bingo hall on 4th Street. Obviously, the activity now, like everything else in our country has just skyrocketed in terms of cost. The whole fundraising model that the Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation has is a little bit different and it requires fundraising on actually a national level, not just going to our alumni for financial support or for marching members for dues, fees, but we're talking corporate level sponsorships. That's already all begun."The hope is to get the enthusiasm for the art form started again so that when the money is there, the players will be, too."We can only project timelines at this point," Smith said. "We're looking at a minimum of five years to seven years, actually. Having said that, the age out is 21."The tentative schedule for Monday is as follows:<ul>
 <li>1pm – 5 p.m. – Blue Devils work with visual staff on field (Free stadium seating to all attenders)</li><li>3:30 p.m. – KS Band students – After introductions by Eric Stambaugh, Jay Smith, and Pat Seidling, the students will work with Blue Devils sections in and around the Stringer Fine Arts auditorium</li><li>3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – Band students work with Blue Devils instructors in sections</li><li>5:30 p.m. – 6:30pm – Concessions will be open</li><li>7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Blue Devils in Stadium field for ensemble work and run throughs</li><li>9:30 p.m. – Final full run through by the Blue Devils</li>
 </ul><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;

Exhibition is kickoff for restart of Hutch drum and bugle corps

Lola Morton is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.

Town and School you attend: I live in Portadown and attend Portadown College. I'm in year 13 and am studying A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology.

What do you like to do: I love playing football and I also enjoy coaching, as well. I also play the drum and love acting and singing.

Favorite singer or group: Taylor Swift is my all-time favorite singer.

What is something people would not know about Portadown: A river runs through the town called the River Bann.

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: Making new friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

What is your favorite meal: I really love pasta.

Lola Morton is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.Your host family: Anderson FamilyTown and School you attend: I live in Portadown and attend Portadown College. I'm in year 13 and am studying A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology.What do you like to do: I love playing football and I also enjoy coaching, as well. I also play the drum and love acting and singing.Favorite singer or group: Taylor Swift is my all-time favorite singer.What is something people would not know about Portadown: A river runs through the town called the River Bann.What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: Making new friends and memories that will last a lifetime.What is your favorite meal: I really love pasta.

Ulster Project Hutch: Lola Morton

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Wednesday, Governor Laura Kelly was elected to serve as Chair of Education Commission of the States (ECS) for the 2023-25 term, according to a media release from her office.

 This election, by a bipartisan group of commissioners from every state, happened during ECS’s annual National Forum on Education Policy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Serving in this role, Governor Kelly continues her commitment to be the “Education Governor” by elevating Kansas to this national leadership role.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I&nbsp;am&nbsp;looking forward to working with&nbsp;ECS&nbsp;to continue&nbsp;its&nbsp;legacy as a key partner for education leaders across the country,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“The organization has been absolutely invaluable to me and my team, and I want to be a champion for it by leading it through its next chapter.”&nbsp;

Education Commission of the States is the premier education policy organization working to support state leaders nationwide. ECS provides policy and technical assistance to elected officials and policy leaders from all education sectors. ECS comprises over 300 appointed commissioners from every state and territory representing governor’s offices, state legislatures, state boards of education, chief state school officers, higher education authorities, and local education officials. ECS brings together these leaders to encourage collaboration across states and advance educational best practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are so pleased to have Gov. Kelly’s leadership and involvement with ECS,”&nbsp;said Matt Padilla, interim president of Education Commission of the States.&nbsp;“Gov. Kelly embodies the bipartisanship that is so instrumental to our mission. We look forward to working alongside her to advance innovation and best practices in state education policy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

As Chair, Governor Kelly will develop and lead a Chair’s Initiative to highlight innovative practices underway in the Kansas education system that can serve as a model for how other states can build upon Kansas’ leadership. Governor Kelly’s Chair’s Initiative will focus on expanding educational opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. On July 1, 2023, Pell Grant eligibility was restored for incarcerated populations across the country, opening an avenue for around 760,000 incarcerated individuals to participate in college coursework nationwide.

In Kansas, correctional populations have had access to Pell-eligible coursework since 2020 through the Second Chance Pell Experimental Site Initiative, which piloted the provision of college coursework in correctional settings. Now that Pell eligibility has been restored for justice-impacted individuals across the country, Kansas is a model for creating partnerships that expand programming into correctional facilities and prepare incarcerated individuals to reenter society with significant work and educational experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While in Minneapolis, Governor Kelly participated in a panel discussion with former Republican Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson on the state of education in America and how states can come together to solve pressing challenges. Governor Hutchinson, the outgoing Chair of ECS, also presided over the official gavel exchange—marking the transition to Governor Kelly’s term.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689195695324.png" alt="While in Minneapolis, Governor Kelly participated in a panel discussion with former Republican Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson on the state of education in America- courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>While in Minneapolis, Governor Kelly participated in a panel discussion with former Republican Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson on the state of education in America- courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Wednesday, Governor Laura Kelly was elected to serve as Chair of Education Commission of the States (ECS) for the 2023-25 term, according to a media release from her office. This election, by a bipartisan group of commissioners from every state, happened during ECS’s annual National Forum on Education Policy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Serving in this role, Governor Kelly continues her commitment to be the “Education Governor” by elevating Kansas to this national leadership role.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689195835480.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“I&nbsp;am&nbsp;looking forward to working with&nbsp;ECS&nbsp;to continue&nbsp;its&nbsp;legacy as a key partner for education leaders across the country,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“The organization has been absolutely invaluable to me and my team, and I want to be a champion for it by leading it through its next chapter.”&nbsp;Education Commission of the States is the premier education policy organization working to support state leaders nationwide. ECS provides policy and technical assistance to elected officials and policy leaders from all education sectors. ECS comprises over 300 appointed commissioners from every state and territory representing governor’s offices, state legislatures, state boards of education, chief state school officers, higher education authorities, and local education officials. ECS brings together these leaders to encourage collaboration across states and advance educational best practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are so pleased to have Gov. Kelly’s leadership and involvement with ECS,”&nbsp;said Matt Padilla, interim president of Education Commission of the States.&nbsp;“Gov. Kelly embodies the bipartisanship that is so instrumental to our mission. We look forward to working alongside her to advance innovation and best practices in state education policy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;As Chair, Governor Kelly will develop and lead a Chair’s Initiative to highlight innovative practices underway in the Kansas education system that can serve as a model for how other states can build upon Kansas’ leadership. Governor Kelly’s Chair’s Initiative will focus on expanding educational opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. On July 1, 2023, Pell Grant eligibility was restored for incarcerated populations across the country, opening an avenue for around 760,000 incarcerated individuals to participate in college coursework nationwide.In Kansas, correctional populations have had access to Pell-eligible coursework since 2020 through the Second Chance Pell Experimental Site Initiative, which piloted the provision of college coursework in correctional settings. Now that Pell eligibility has been restored for justice-impacted individuals across the country, Kansas is a model for creating partnerships that expand programming into correctional facilities and prepare incarcerated individuals to reenter society with significant work and educational experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;While in Minneapolis, Governor Kelly participated in a panel discussion with former Republican Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson on the state of education in America and how states can come together to solve pressing challenges. Governor Hutchinson, the outgoing Chair of ECS, also presided over the official gavel exchange—marking the transition to Governor Kelly’s term.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Kelly elected to Chair Education Commission of the States

Sarah Cosgrove is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster project.

Town and School you attend: I live in Portadown and attend Portadown College.

What do you like to do: I enjoy playing piano and I also play volleyball. I enjoy making art, although I rarely finish a piece.

Favorite singer or group: I don't really have a favorite singer, but I love songs from musicals.

What is something people would not know about Portadown: There is not much going on in Portadown, but there are a few nice walks.

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: I am looking forward to trying the different food and hopefully making lifelong connections.

What is your favorite meal: My favorite meal is beef stew and wheaten bread.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688471084814.jpeg" alt="Sarah Cosgrove-2023 Ulster Project Hutch" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Cosgrove-2023 Ulster Project Hutch</figcaption>
 </figure>Sarah Cosgrove is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster project.Your host family: The Keast familyTown and School you attend: I live in Portadown and attend Portadown College.What do you like to do: I enjoy playing piano and I also play volleyball. I enjoy making art, although I rarely finish a piece.Favorite singer or group: I don't really have a favorite singer, but I love songs from musicals.What is something people would not know about Portadown: There is not much going on in Portadown, but there are a few nice walks.What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: I am looking forward to trying the different food and hopefully making lifelong connections.What is your favorite meal: My favorite meal is beef stew and wheaten bread.

Ulster Project Hutch: Sarah Cosgrove

Molly Sloan is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.

Town and school you attend: I live in Portadown. I attend Portadown College.

What do you like to do: I do Irish Dancing and enjoy netball, swimming and athletics. I also enjoy long, scenic walks.

Favorite singer or group: Taylor Swift, Dylan Conrique, Mimi Webb, Lizzy McAlpine, Lewis Capaldi.

What is something people would not know about Portadown: It earned the name 'hub of the North' due to it being a major railway junction.

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: Meeting all the Americans and making amazing memories.

What is your favorite meal:&nbsp; Chicken nuggets and fries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688469959940.jpeg" alt="Ulster Project Hutchinson 2023-Molly Sloan" />
 <figcaption>Ulster Project Hutchinson 2023-Molly Sloan</figcaption>
 </figure>Molly Sloan is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.Your host family: The AndersonsTown and school you attend: I live in Portadown. I attend Portadown College.What do you like to do: I do Irish Dancing and enjoy netball, swimming and athletics. I also enjoy long, scenic walks.Favorite singer or group: Taylor Swift, Dylan Conrique, Mimi Webb, Lizzy McAlpine, Lewis Capaldi.What is something people would not know about Portadown: It earned the name 'hub of the North' due to it being a major railway junction.What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: Meeting all the Americans and making amazing memories.What is your favorite meal:&nbsp; Chicken nuggets and fries.

Ulster Project Hutch: Molly Sloan

Hutchinson Community College men’s basketball coach Tommy DeSalme has announced a pair of changes to his staff – one promotion and one new hiring – effective for the 2023-24 season.

DeSalme has promoted assistant coach Eric Nitche to Associate Head Coach and announced the hiring of Kyle Pugh as an assistant coach.

Nitche will begin his third season with the Blue Dragons in 2023-24. He has been an assistant with DeSalme for nine seasons, the first seven while at Cowley College in Arkansas City. The Blue Dragons have gone 46-21 in the past two seasons with one NJCAA Tournament appearance.

“This promotion is well deserved,” DeSalme said of his long-time assistant. “I believe Eric is one of the best coaches in the country and he is a great representative of Hutch CC.”

Pugh joins the Blue Dragon staff this season after spending the last two years at Cloud County Community College as an assistant.

Originally from Champaign, Illinois, Pugh has coaching experience at Cloud County, Jacksonville University and the University of Illinois under coaches John Groce and Brad Underwood. Pugh started as a student coach at Parkland College, an NJCAA Division II school in Champaign, Illinois.

“We are so excited to add Kyle to our staff,” DeSalme said. “He comes with great experience for a young coach.  He knows the Jayhawk Conference and has an incredible work ethic.  He will be an addition not just to our team, but to the college and community.”

The Blue Dragon men’s basketball team will open the 2023-24 season with the Blue Dragon Classic on November 3 and 4 at the Sports Arena.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688744453097.jpeg" alt="Tommy DeSalme" />
 <figcaption>Tommy DeSalme</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationHutchinson Community College men’s basketball coach Tommy DeSalme has announced a pair of changes to his staff – one promotion and one new hiring – effective for the 2023-24 season.DeSalme has promoted assistant coach Eric Nitche to Associate Head Coach and announced the hiring of Kyle Pugh as an assistant coach.Nitche will begin his third season with the Blue Dragons in 2023-24. He has been an assistant with DeSalme for nine seasons, the first seven while at Cowley College in Arkansas City. The Blue Dragons have gone 46-21 in the past two seasons with one NJCAA Tournament appearance.“This promotion is well deserved,” DeSalme said of his long-time assistant. “I believe Eric is one of the best coaches in the country and he is a great representative of Hutch CC.”Pugh joins the Blue Dragon staff this season after spending the last two years at Cloud County Community College as an assistant.Originally from Champaign, Illinois, Pugh has coaching experience at Cloud County, Jacksonville University and the University of Illinois under coaches John Groce and Brad Underwood. Pugh started as a student coach at Parkland College, an NJCAA Division II school in Champaign, Illinois.“We are so excited to add Kyle to our staff,” DeSalme said. “He comes with great experience for a young coach. He knows the Jayhawk Conference and has an incredible work ethic. He will be an addition not just to our team, but to the college and community.”The Blue Dragon men’s basketball team will open the 2023-24 season with the Blue Dragon Classic on November 3 and 4 at the Sports Arena.

🏀 DeSalme announces staff reorganization

Patriece Gallagher is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.

Your family: Parents John and Andrea Gallagher

Town and School you attend: St. Catherine's College, Armagh. I am doing my A-levels; I study Maths, English Literature, construction and health and social care.

What do you like to do: I like playing Gaelic football, Irish dancing, swimming and drama. I go to drama every Saturday.

Favorite singer or group: Taylor Swift, The Script, Morgan Wallen

What is something people would not know about Portadown: The local football club, Maghery, won the championship in 2018.

What are you looking forward to experiencing in Hutchinson: I'm looking forward to experiencing a new way of life, meeting new people and creating new bonds.

What is your favorite meal: My favorite meal is chicken goujons and chips (fries) or Carbonara.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688469369043.jpeg" alt="Patriece Gallagher-Hutch Ulster Project 2023" />
 <figcaption>Patriece Gallagher-Hutch Ulster Project 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Patriece Gallagher is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.Your family: Parents John and Andrea GallagherTown and School you attend: St. Catherine's College, Armagh. I am doing my A-levels; I study Maths, English Literature, construction and health and social care.What do you like to do: I like playing Gaelic football, Irish dancing, swimming and drama. I go to drama every Saturday.Favorite singer or group: Taylor Swift, The Script, Morgan WallenWhat is something people would not know about Portadown: The local football club, Maghery, won the championship in 2018.What are you looking forward to experiencing in Hutchinson: I'm looking forward to experiencing a new way of life, meeting new people and creating new bonds.What is your favorite meal: My favorite meal is chicken goujons and chips (fries) or Carbonara.

Ulster Project Hutch: Patriece Gallagher

Courtesy of HutchCC Sports Information

With opening day of the 2023 football season less than two months away, Hutchinson Community College head football coach Drew Dallas has announced coaching staff changes and additions after the departures of several assistants from last season .

Dallas, who is 28-3 in his first three seasons as Blue Dragon head coach, made three promotions from within the staff and three new hires for the 2023 seasons.

"A huge part of our success as a football team, has and always will be, a direct reflection of our coaching staff's leadership, work ethic, and professionalism," Dallas said. "We have been very fortunate to have a great group of men to help lead our team in the past. I am extremely confident that with the reorganization and new additions to our staff we will continue to build and grow as a program."

The Blue Dragons will have new offensive and defensive coordinators this season.

Gary Salgado, who is in his fourth season, becomes the new Defensive Coordinator after three seasons as a co-defensive coordinator with the departed Tate Omli (Eastern Michigan). Salgado will retain his Defensive Line coaching duties.

Tony Koehling has been hired to replace Phil Serchia (Los Angeles Chargers) as the Offensive Coordinator. Koehling comes to Hutchinson from Iowa Western Community College. Koehling will also coach the offensive line.

Starting his second season with the Blue Dragons, assistant coach Matt Martin has been promoted to Assistant Head Coach and will remain as receivers' coach.

LaQuentin Black, now in his second season at Hutchinson, has been promoted to co-defensive coordinator and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator and will retain his duties as defensive backs coach.

The two other new hires for Dallas are both making their second stops in Hutchinson.

Davin Hawkins returns for his second coaching stint with the Blue Dragons as a defensive assistant working with outside linebackers. Hawkins was on the 2018 Blue Dragon coaching staff as a tight ends coach. Between stints at Hutchinson, Hawkins coached high school football in Texas.

Former player DeMarcus Roberson will be the Linebackers' coach in 2023. Roberson was coaching at Fork Union Military Academy before coming to Hutchinson. He played for the Blue Dragons in 2005 as a linebacker. Roberson recorded 48 total tackles and returned an interception 57 yards for a touchdown against Highland.

Andrew Krause and Greg Cross, the two longest-tenured Blue Dragon assistants, remain on staff.

Krause, who begins his eighth season at Hutchinson remains the Special Teams Coordinator, Tight Ends Coach and Recruiting Coordinator.

Cross begins his ninth season in 2023. He will be the Running Backs Coach and Run-Game Coordinator.

"I am extremely thankful for the hard work, dedication, and success of the coaches that are moving on from our program and excited for the new opportunities for them and their families in the profession. I am equally as excited for the new coaches we have hired and the new roles that some of our staff will have within in our program," said Dallas, who will also remain as the team's quarterbacks' coach.

"With change, there is always an opportunity to reflect, evaluate, and restructure, and the goal is to find a way to create growth from that process."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621177721281.jpeg" alt="Drew Dallas&nbsp;(Andrew Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Drew Dallas&nbsp;(Andrew Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC Sports InformationWith opening day of the 2023 football season less than two months away, Hutchinson Community College head football coach Drew Dallas has announced coaching staff changes and additions after the departures of several assistants from last season .Dallas, who is 28-3 in his first three seasons as Blue Dragon head coach, made three promotions from within the staff and three new hires for the 2023 seasons."A huge part of our success as a football team, has and always will be, a direct reflection of our coaching staff's leadership, work ethic, and professionalism," Dallas said. "We have been very fortunate to have a great group of men to help lead our team in the past. I am extremely confident that with the reorganization and new additions to our staff we will continue to build and grow as a program."The Blue Dragons will have new offensive and defensive coordinators this season.Gary Salgado, who is in his fourth season, becomes the new Defensive Coordinator after three seasons as a co-defensive coordinator with the departed Tate Omli (Eastern Michigan). Salgado will retain his Defensive Line coaching duties.Tony Koehling has been hired to replace Phil Serchia (Los Angeles Chargers) as the Offensive Coordinator. Koehling comes to Hutchinson from Iowa Western Community College. Koehling will also coach the offensive line.Starting his second season with the Blue Dragons, assistant coach Matt Martin has been promoted to Assistant Head Coach and will remain as receivers' coach.LaQuentin Black, now in his second season at Hutchinson, has been promoted to co-defensive coordinator and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator and will retain his duties as defensive backs coach.The two other new hires for Dallas are both making their second stops in Hutchinson.Davin Hawkins returns for his second coaching stint with the Blue Dragons as a defensive assistant working with outside linebackers. Hawkins was on the 2018 Blue Dragon coaching staff as a tight ends coach. Between stints at Hutchinson, Hawkins coached high school football in Texas.Former player DeMarcus Roberson will be the Linebackers' coach in 2023. Roberson was coaching at Fork Union Military Academy before coming to Hutchinson. He played for the Blue Dragons in 2005 as a linebacker. Roberson recorded 48 total tackles and returned an interception 57 yards for a touchdown against Highland.Andrew Krause and Greg Cross, the two longest-tenured Blue Dragon assistants, remain on staff.Krause, who begins his eighth season at Hutchinson remains the Special Teams Coordinator, Tight Ends Coach and Recruiting Coordinator.Cross begins his ninth season in 2023. He will be the Running Backs Coach and Run-Game Coordinator."I am extremely thankful for the hard work, dedication, and success of the coaches that are moving on from our program and excited for the new opportunities for them and their families in the profession. I am equally as excited for the new coaches we have hired and the new roles that some of our staff will have within in our program," said Dallas, who will also remain as the team's quarterbacks' coach."With change, there is always an opportunity to reflect, evaluate, and restructure, and the goal is to find a way to create growth from that process."