CLEVELAND, Ohio — Hutchinson Community College earned national recognition for overall athletic excellence in the 2024-25 Ron Case Cup presented by Daktronics, finishing 13th in the country among two-year colleges.

The Blue Dragons totaled 97.5 points in the annual competition, which ranks the top athletic programs in the National Alliance of Two-Year College Athletic Administrators (NATYCAA) Scholarship Division. Hutchinson was one of three Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) schools to place in the top 15, joining fourth-place Barton Community College (163 points) and eighth-place Cowley College (129.5 points).

Two additional KJCCC schools, Johnson County (17th, 80.5 points) and Butler (26th, 62.5 points), also cracked the top 30.

The Ron Case Cup, formerly known as the NATYCAA Cup, awards points based on a college’s top five team finishes per gender at the highest level of postseason competition. First-place finishes earn 20 points, with a sliding scale down to one point.

This marks the seventh year the award has been sponsored by Daktronics and the first under its new name, honoring former NATYCAA president Ron Case, who led the organization’s Cup initiative from its creation in 2004 until his retirement in June 2024.

Iowa Western claimed the top spot with 179.5 points, followed by College of Dupage (165 points) and Iowa Central (164.5 points) to round out the top three.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752681677383.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NACDA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NACDA</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND, Ohio — Hutchinson Community College earned national recognition for overall athletic excellence in the 2024-25 Ron Case Cup presented by Daktronics, finishing 13th in the country among two-year colleges.The Blue Dragons totaled 97.5 points in the annual competition, which ranks the top athletic programs in the National Alliance of Two-Year College Athletic Administrators (NATYCAA) Scholarship Division. Hutchinson was one of three Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) schools to place in the top 15, joining fourth-place Barton Community College (163 points) and eighth-place Cowley College (129.5 points).Two additional KJCCC schools, Johnson County (17th, 80.5 points) and Butler (26th, 62.5 points), also cracked the top 30.The Ron Case Cup, formerly known as the NATYCAA Cup, awards points based on a college’s top five team finishes per gender at the highest level of postseason competition. First-place finishes earn 20 points, with a sliding scale down to one point.This marks the seventh year the award has been sponsored by Daktronics and the first under its new name, honoring former NATYCAA president Ron Case, who led the organization’s Cup initiative from its creation in 2004 until his retirement in June 2024.Iowa Western claimed the top spot with 179.5 points, followed by College of Dupage (165 points) and Iowa Central (164.5 points) to round out the top three.&nbsp;

HutchCC finishes 13th nationally in 2024-25 Ron Case Cup standings

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A new program aimed at preparing Kansas high school students for careers in science and technology has been launched through a partnership between the Cosmosphere International SciEd Center and Space Museum, Ad Astra Academies, and USD 313.

The Ad Astra STEAM Academy is a four-year elective course plan designed for students in grades 9 through 12. It combines full-time virtual instruction with weekly, in-person labs at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. Students will gain hands-on experience through engineering simulations, design challenges, and project-based learning that reflects real-world aerospace and STEAM-related scenarios.

Program features include access to Cosmosphere exhibits, restoration spaces, and expert educators, along with dual-credit opportunities through K-State Salina, Hutchinson Community College, and WSU Tech. Seniors will complete a capstone project presented at a culminating symposium.

Students receive one full elective credit each year and may continue through four levels of the academy, building on critical thinking, innovation, and career readiness. There are no prerequisites to enroll.

Interested students must apply through Ad Astra Virtual Academy and meet program requirements. Applications are now open, and space is limited.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745940628221.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A new program aimed at preparing Kansas high school students for careers in science and technology has been launched through a partnership between the Cosmosphere International SciEd Center and Space Museum, Ad Astra Academies, and USD 313.The Ad Astra STEAM Academy is a four-year elective course plan designed for students in grades 9 through 12. It combines full-time virtual instruction with weekly, in-person labs at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. Students will gain hands-on experience through engineering simulations, design challenges, and project-based learning that reflects real-world aerospace and STEAM-related scenarios.Program features include access to Cosmosphere exhibits, restoration spaces, and expert educators, along with dual-credit opportunities through K-State Salina, Hutchinson Community College, and WSU Tech. Seniors will complete a capstone project presented at a culminating symposium.Students receive one full elective credit each year and may continue through four levels of the academy, building on critical thinking, innovation, and career readiness. There are no prerequisites to enroll.Interested students must apply through Ad Astra Virtual Academy and meet program requirements. Applications are now open, and space is limited.

Cosmosphere, Ad Astra Academies launch hybrid STEAM academy for Kansas teens

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kamden Edge, a former pitcher for the Hutchinson Monarchs, was selected with the 608th pick by the Kansas City Royals in the 20th round of the 2025 MLB Draft.

Edge, a native of Soper, Oklahoma, recently completed his freshman season at Northern Oklahoma College-Tonkawa, where he went 12-0 with a 3.25 ERA in 14 appearances, 13 of them in relief. The right-hander struck out 74 batters in 52.2 innings and posted a 1.25 WHIP.

This summer, Edge has been pitching for the Mahoning Valley Scrappers of the MLB Draft League. Based in Niles, Ohio, the Scrappers are part of a collegiate summer league designed to showcase draft-eligible players. Edge has made two appearances, going 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA over four innings. He has struck out seven batters and has not issued a walk.

Edge pitched for the Monarchs in the summer of 2024, going 3-1 with a 2.70 ERA in nine regular season appearances, including two starts. He struck out 37 batters over 20 innings while allowing just nine hits. He also made one appearance in the NBC World Series, striking out four in 2.1 innings against the Liberal Bee Jays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752588136694.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kamden Edge, a former pitcher for the Hutchinson Monarchs, was selected with the 608th pick by the Kansas City Royals in the 20th round of the 2025 MLB Draft.Edge, a native of Soper, Oklahoma, recently completed his freshman season at Northern Oklahoma College-Tonkawa, where he went 12-0 with a 3.25 ERA in 14 appearances, 13 of them in relief. The right-hander struck out 74 batters in 52.2 innings and posted a 1.25 WHIP.This summer, Edge has been pitching for the Mahoning Valley Scrappers of the MLB Draft League. Based in Niles, Ohio, the Scrappers are part of a collegiate summer league designed to showcase draft-eligible players. Edge has made two appearances, going 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA over four innings. He has struck out seven batters and has not issued a walk.Edge pitched for the Monarchs in the summer of 2024, going 3-1 with a 2.70 ERA in nine regular season appearances, including two starts. He struck out 37 batters over 20 innings while allowing just nine hits. He also made one appearance in the NBC World Series, striking out four in 2.1 innings against the Liberal Bee Jays.

⚾ Former Monarch Kamden Edge drafted by Kansas City Royals

The local Board of Education held its annual reorganization meeting Monday evening, electing new leadership, reviewing upcoming budget deadlines, and approving salary increases ahead of the new school year.

The meeting began with the election of Lance as board president and another member as vice president. Both positions were approved by unanimous votes, with the newly elected president immediately taking over proceedings.

New Human Resources Director Julie Strong introduced herself to the board, sharing her extensive background in education, from early childhood through community college administration. “Education is my passion,” Strong said. “The one thing I want people to say when I walk away is that I had the students’ best interests at heart.”

Superintendent Dr. Johnson outlined important upcoming dates, including the district’s convocation event set for August 6, where staff will gather ahead of the first day of classes. Online enrollment is now open, and the district is continuing to accept applications for out-of-district students, with nine new students approved so far.

Abby Grant, the district’s Director of Finance, presented the budget timeline for the 2025-2026 school year. The board plans to hold its building needs assessment and set hearings for the revenue neutral rate at the August 11 meeting. Final budget approval is anticipated by the August 25 meeting, with the state deadline for budget submission set for September 20.

Board members also received an update from the bond executive committee, which has been working to prepare the community for an upcoming bond issue aimed at improving district facilities and learning environments.

In action items, the board unanimously approved district handbooks for the 2025-2026 school year, which now include an updated cell phone and earbud policy. They also approved administrative and classified salary increases totaling approximately $480,000. This means classified staff wages will see an average raise of about 4 percent, bringing the starting hourly wage to over $16 for many positions — a move board members said is crucial for retention and recruitment.

“We want our staff to feel appreciated and able to make a livable wage,” one board member noted, adding that the district is nearly fully staffed for paraprofessionals, custodial, and food service roles. A few elementary teacher positions remain open, but administrators expressed optimism about filling them before the start of classes.

The board wrapped up its meeting with updates on the transition to publishing legal notices in the Hutchinson Tribune once it begins regular print publication. Board members thanked staff for clear communication to families about enrollment and start times.

The next regular Board of Education meeting is scheduled for July 28. .

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741718847495.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;The local Board of Education held its annual reorganization meeting Monday evening, electing new leadership, reviewing upcoming budget deadlines, and approving salary increases ahead of the new school year.The meeting began with the election of Lance as board president and another member as vice president. Both positions were approved by unanimous votes, with the newly elected president immediately taking over proceedings.New Human Resources Director Julie Strong introduced herself to the board, sharing her extensive background in education, from early childhood through community college administration. “Education is my passion,” Strong said. “The one thing I want people to say when I walk away is that I had the students’ best interests at heart.”Superintendent Dr. Johnson outlined important upcoming dates, including the district’s convocation event set for August 6, where staff will gather ahead of the first day of classes. Online enrollment is now open, and the district is continuing to accept applications for out-of-district students, with nine new students approved so far.Abby Grant, the district’s Director of Finance, presented the budget timeline for the 2025-2026 school year. The board plans to hold its building needs assessment and set hearings for the revenue neutral rate at the August 11 meeting. Final budget approval is anticipated by the August 25 meeting, with the state deadline for budget submission set for September 20.Board members also received an update from the bond executive committee, which has been working to prepare the community for an upcoming bond issue aimed at improving district facilities and learning environments.In action items, the board unanimously approved district handbooks for the 2025-2026 school year, which now include an updated cell phone and earbud policy. They also approved administrative and classified salary increases totaling approximately $480,000. This means classified staff wages will see an average raise of about 4 percent, bringing the starting hourly wage to over $16 for many positions — a move board members said is crucial for retention and recruitment.“We want our staff to feel appreciated and able to make a livable wage,” one board member noted, adding that the district is nearly fully staffed for paraprofessionals, custodial, and food service roles. A few elementary teacher positions remain open, but administrators expressed optimism about filling them before the start of classes.The board wrapped up its meeting with updates on the transition to publishing legal notices in the Hutchinson Tribune once it begins regular print publication. Board members thanked staff for clear communication to families about enrollment and start times.The next regular Board of Education meeting is scheduled for July 28. .

USD 308 Board of Education holds reorganization meeting and prepares for new school year. 

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

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 has hired Trish Wade as the next head volleyball coach at Nickerson High School.

The USD 309 Board of Education approved the hiring during its regularly scheduled meeting Monday night.

"Coach Wade knows what it takes to compete at the highest level," Nickerson Athletic Director Devin Maxwell said. "She’s dedicated to instilling that same drive and excellence in her athletes."

Wade brings an accomplished resume to Nickerson after a standout 17-year tenure at St. John High School, where she compiled more than 420 career victories and guided the Tigers to three Class 1A state championships. St. John captured the state title in 2008 with a 43-2 record, followed by back-to-back 1A Division I championships in 2010 and 2011 with records of 41-4 and 43-2, respectively. Under her leadership, St. John advanced to the state semifinals in 10 of her 17 seasons and finished 29-15 last fall with a return trip to the 1A Division I state tournament.

A decorated athlete in her own right, Wade was inducted into the Barton Community College Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. She was a two-time All-American for the Cougars from 1985-86, helping the volleyball team to a 111-10 record and two Top 4 finishes at the NJCAA National Tournament. She went on to play at Florida Southern, where she earned AVCA Second Team All-America honors in 1987 and was twice named First Team All-Sunshine State Conference. Wade still holds the school records for solo blocks in a match (11), season (99) and career (182), and remains ranked in several career and single-season statistical categories.

Wade is also the mother of Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade, a former Kansas State standout and the only player in Wildcat history to record at least 1,000 points, 100 3-pointers, 500 rebounds, 200 assists and 100 steals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752525658331.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON </a>Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 has hired Trish Wade as the next head volleyball coach at Nickerson High School.The USD 309 Board of Education approved the hiring during its regularly scheduled meeting Monday night."Coach Wade knows what it takes to compete at the highest level," Nickerson Athletic Director Devin Maxwell said. "She’s dedicated to instilling that same drive and excellence in her athletes."Wade brings an accomplished resume to Nickerson after a standout 17-year tenure at St. John High School, where she compiled more than 420 career victories and guided the Tigers to three Class 1A state championships. St. John captured the state title in 2008 with a 43-2 record, followed by back-to-back 1A Division I championships in 2010 and 2011 with records of 41-4 and 43-2, respectively. Under her leadership, St. John advanced to the state semifinals in 10 of her 17 seasons and finished 29-15 last fall with a return trip to the 1A Division I state tournament.A decorated athlete in her own right, Wade was inducted into the Barton Community College Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. She was a two-time All-American for the Cougars from 1985-86, helping the volleyball team to a 111-10 record and two Top 4 finishes at the NJCAA National Tournament. She went on to play at Florida Southern, where she earned AVCA Second Team All-America honors in 1987 and was twice named First Team All-Sunshine State Conference. Wade still holds the school records for solo blocks in a match (11), season (99) and career (182), and remains ranked in several career and single-season statistical categories.Wade is also the mother of Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade, a former Kansas State standout and the only player in Wildcat history to record at least 1,000 points, 100 3-pointers, 500 rebounds, 200 assists and 100 steals.

🏐 Nickerson hires Trish Wade as new head volleyball coach

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals selected 17 players on the final day of the 2025 First-Year Player Draft.&nbsp;

In total, the Royals selected 13 pitchers (12 RHP, 1 LHP), five infielders, three outfielders and one catcher. Of their 22 picks, 16 were from the college ranks, including 2 from JUCO, and six were high school players. Of note, out of the nine position players selected, only No. 28 (PPI) Josh Hammond bats right-handed.

With the 128th overall pick in the 4th round, the Royals selected outfielder Nolan Sailors out of Creighton University (Neb.). Sailors, 22, slashed .389/.485/.584 (88-for-226, 1.069 OPS) with 28 extra-base hits, 44 RBI and 27 stolen bases in 59 games as a senior. In four seasons with the Bluejays, he played in 207 games and slashed .320/.422/.491 (251-for-784) with 19 home runs, 148 RBI and 63 stolen bases. He graduated from Ralston High School (Neb.), where he was named to the All-Nebraska and Super State First Teams after hitting .476 as a senior. He is a native of Omaha, Neb.

With the 158th overall pick in the 5th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Aiden Jimenez out of the University of Arkansas. Jimenez, 21, completed his redshirt sophomore season with the Razorbacks in 2025, going 4-1 with 40 strikeouts (8.5 K/9) in 42.1 innings pitched, posting a 3.40 ERA (16 ER) in a team-high 22 games (2 GS). He began his collegiate career at Oregon State in 2023, where he appeared in 22 games (1 GS) and struck out 35 batters in 38.0 innings of work (8.3 K/9). Jimenez graduated from Elk Grove High School (Calif.). His father, Jason Jimenez, appeared in 6 Major League games with Tampa Bay (5) and Detroit (1) in 2002, and was a 28th round pick by the Rays in 1997. Jason was teammates with Royals Manager Matt Quatraro and Bench Coach Paul Hoover in the Rays minor league system from 1998-2002. His grandfather, Ken Hottman, also played in 6 MLB games in 1971.

With the 188th overall pick in the 6th round, the Royals selected infielder Tyriq Kemp out of Baylor University (Texas). Kemp, 22, played in 55 games for the Bears this season, slashing .358/.446/.542 (72-for-201, .988 OPS) with 48 runs, 41 RBI and more walks (32) than strikeouts (27). He was also announced as a semifinalist for the Brooks Wallace Award in 2025, given annually to the nation’s top collegiate shortstop. In two seasons at Baylor, he posted an .849 OPS and batted .305 (110-for-361), playing in 108 games. In 2024, he played for Curaçao Neptunus in the Dutch Major League, and he slashed .292/.400/.427 (28-for-96, .827 OPS) as a 21-year-old, while playing alongside his older brother, Dwayne, who signed with the Cubs in 2009. Prior to attending Baylor, he played two seasons at Western Oklahoma State College (the same school that notable Curaçaoan shortstop Andrelton Simmons attended), where he hit .375 with 9 home runs and 41 RBI as a sophomore. Kemp was raised in The Netherlands and was a member of the Dutch National Teams from ages U15 to U23, guiding the U23 team to a gold medal at the European Baseball Championship in 2021.

With the 218th overall pick in the 7th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Bryson Dudley out of Texas State University. Dudley, 21, just finished his first season with Texas State and earned CSC Academic All-District Team and Sun Belt Conference All-Tournament Team honors. He pitched in 24 games (2 GS) for the Bobcats, holding opponents to a .185 batting average that was a school record, paired with a 3.93 ERA (22 ER in 50.1 IP). He pitched in 2 games for Trenton in the MLB Draft League this year, striking out 13 batters in 7.0 innings. Spent two seasons at Blinn College (Texas) and helped the Buccaneers win the NJCAA National Championship as a sophomore in 2024.

With the 248th overall pick in the 8th round, the Royals selected catcher Brooks Bryan out of Troy University (Ala.). Bryan, who is celebrating his 21st birthday today, spent each of the last three seasons at Troy, and started all 60 games for them this season, slashing .279/.399/.533 (64-for-229, .931 OPS) with 18 doubles and 12 home runs. He earned All-Sun Belt First Team honors as a sophomore in 2024 and was named a semifinalist for both the Dick Howser Trophy and the Golden Spikes Award, after he posted a .970 OPS with 18 home runs and 85 RBI in 58 games. He was a part of the 2024 Team USA Collegiate National Team, appearing in 4 games, and hit a grand slam on July 3 vs. Chinese Taipei. He also played in 7 games for Cotuit in the Cape Cod League in 2024. He batted .380 with 8 home runs as a senior at Opelika High School (Ala.) in 2022, the alma mater of 10-year MLB vet Roy Lee Jackson.

With the 278th overall pick in the 9th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Shane Van Dam out of North Carolina State University. Van Dam, who underwent Tommy John Surgery in 2024, pitched in just 3 games (1 start) at the end of this season. The 21-year-old pitched in 16 games and covered 37.1 innings as a sophomore in 2024, striking out 38 batters (9.2 K/9). He played both baseball and football at SUNY Cortland in 2023, striking out 43 batters in 29.1 innings (13.2 K/9) while playing quarterback for the Red Dragons, but not appearing in a game. He graduated from Cranford High School (N.J.) in 2022, where he was a three-year member of the football team and a two-year starter on the baseball team. He was teammates with Kansas City’s 2025 5th rounder Aiden Jimenez and their 2024 12th rounder Tommy Molsky on the 2023 Chatham Anglers of the Cape Cod League.

With the 308th overall pick in the 10th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Max Martin out of the University of California-Irvine. Martin, 21, finished his junior season with 14 saves, tied for 4th among all Division I pitchers this season, as well as a 3.29 ERA (14 ER in 38.1 IP) and 39 strikeouts. In three seasons at U.C. Irvine, he struck out 83 batters in 84.1 innings and earned 19 saves. Pitched in 8 games for the Pulaski River Turtles of the Appalachian League in 2024, and allowed just 2 runs (1 ER) across 15.0 innings (0.60 ERA), striking out 17 and walking just 3. He graduated from Sierra Canyon School (Calif.), where he was teammates with Kehden Hettiger, Philadelphia’s 11th round pick in 2023.

With the 338th overall pick in the 11th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Hunter Alberini out of the University of Arizona. Alberini, 23, pitched in one season at Arizona, going 1-0 with 33 strikeouts (14.4 K/9) to just 7 walks (3.0 BB/9) and a 3.48 ERA (8 ER in 20.2 IP) in 18 games. Prior to joining the Wildcats, he spent two seasons at Umpqua Community College (Ore.) from 2021-22 and two seasons at the College of Southern Nevada (2023-24), the alma mater of Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper. In 2024, he pitched in 7 games for State College in the MLB Draft League and struck out 10 in 12.0 IP. He graduated from Centennial High School (Nev.) in 2020, where he earned two baseball letters.

With the 368th overall pick in the 12th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Matthew Hoskins out of the University of Georgia. Hoskins, 21, made 18 appearances (2 starts) for the Bulldogs as a junior this year, and struck out 39 batters in just 27.1 innings (12.8 K/9), earning 1 win and 2 saves. After the season, he also pitched once for Trenton in the MLB Draft League, where he was teammates with Kansas City’s 7th round selection this year, Bryson Dudley. While at Georgia, he earned three SEC Academic Honor Roll nominations and struck out 67 batters across 50.2 innings (11.9 K/9). He graduated from Peachtree Ridge High School (Ga.) in 2022, where he went 4-3 with a 2.89 ERA and 62 strikeouts as a senior. He also batted .382 with 6 doubles, 5 home runs and 24 RBI as a senior, playing primarily as an outfielder when he wasn’t pitching. He was rated as the No. 11 prospect in the state of Georgia coming out of high school, per Perfect Game.

With the 398th overall pick in the 13th round, the Royals selected infielder Tyson Moran out of the F.E. Madill Secondary School (Ontario, CAN). Moran, 19, is currently committed to play at North Dakota State University. He plays for the Great Lakes Canadians amateur baseball program, and is coached by former big leaguer Jamie Romak, who played in 27 games for the Dodgers (2014) and Diamondbacks (2015).

With the 428th overall pick in the 14th round, the Royals selected infielder JC Vanek out of Chipola College (Fla.). Vanek, 20, slashed .395/.512/.631 (62-for-157, 1.143 OPS) with 9 home runs, 50 runs scored, 43 RBI and more walks (30) than strikeouts (27). Was named to the Panhandle All-Conference First Team in 2024 after leading Chipola in average (.366), hits (53) and RBI (47). He has since committed to Florida State University. After the season, he played in 16 games for Mahoning Valley in the MLB Draft League and posted a .712 OPS with 2 home runs, 13 RBI and 4 stolen bases in 16 games. He graduated from Alfred M. Barbe High School (La.) in 2023.

With the 458th overall pick in the 15th round, the Royals selected infielder Connor Rasmussen out of Tulane University (La.). Rasmussen, 21, has spent each of the last two seasons at Tulane, and has slashed .321/.425/.485 (141-for-439, .910 OPS) in 120 games for the Green Wave, driving in 96 runs while scoring 92. He also drew more walks (71) than he had strikeouts (58). Prior to transferring to Tulane, he spent his freshman season at East Carolina University (N.C.), where he appeared in 17 games. He graduated from Fort Mill High School (S.C.) in 2022, where his .418 average as a senior guided his team to a state championship runner-up finish. His brother, Cole, was a long snapper for the University of South Carolina Gamecocks from 2021-24.

With the 488th overall pick in the 16th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Randy Ramnarace out of the University of New Haven (Conn.). Ramnarace, 20, went 2-1 with a 2.51 ERA (9 ER in 32.1 IP) and 45 strikeouts (12.5 K/9) in 12 games (1 GS), earning 3 saves. He has spent three seasons with the Chargers, amassing a 9-5 record and a 4.28 ERA (56 ER in 117.2 IP) with 146 strikeouts. This summer, he pitched in 5 games for Bristol in the New England Collegiate Baseball League, his second consecutive summer in the NECBL after pitching in 5 games for Danbury in 2024. He graduated from Brentwood High School (N.Y.), where he was the team captain as a senior.

With the 518th overall pick in the 17th round, the Royals selected outfielder Luke Nowak out of the University of Illinois at Chicago. Nowak, 22, just finished his senior season at UIC, and he posted a .387/.455/.559 (86-for-222, 1.014 OPS) slashline, leading the Missouri Valley Conference in average (.387), while ranking among qualified leaders in hits (3rd, 86), triples (T-4th, 3) and OBP (5th, .455). He spent the first three seasons of his collegiate career at East Carolina University (N.C.), where he was teammates with Kansas City’s 15th rounder Connor Rasmussen. In three seasons at ECU, he slashed .268/.382/.362 (71-for-265) with 17 extra-base hits and 49 RBI in 118 games (71 starts). He graduated from Menomonee Falls High School (Wis.), where he earned seven letters (3 in baseball, 4 in track and field), and was a two-time conference and regional champion in baseball as well as a four-time state qualifier in track.

With the 548th overall pick in the 18th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Grayson Boles out of St. Augustine High School (Calif.). Boles, 18, is committed to the University of Texas, and is ranked the 9th-best right-handed pitcher in the state of California by Perfect Game. Per his Maxpreps.com page, he posted a 2.92 ERA (71 ER in 170.1 IP) in high school, including a 1.95 mark (17 ER in 61.0 IP) this year, with 81 strikeouts to just 22 walks. As a hitter, he batted .335 (55-for-164) in four years, and he hit 2 home runs while batting .393 (11-for-28) this season. He started the High School All-American Game on Aug. 15, 2024 at Petco Park, and finished the 1st inning with a strikeout.

With the 578th overall pick in the 19th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Dylan Wood out of Franklin High School (Calif.). Wood, 18, went 8-0 as a senior while posting a 1.65 ERA (14 ER in 59.1 IP) with 100 strikeouts. He is ranked as the No. 102 prospect and No. 25 RHP nationally and as the No. 20 prospect and No. 6 RHP in California by Perfect Game. He pitched in 3 games for Team USA’s 18U National Team, allowing 1 run in 6.1 innings, and earned the win in the gold medal game at the 2024 WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier with 1.1 hitless innings. He is committed to play baseball at the University of Arizona.

With the 608th overall pick in the 20th and final round of the 2025 Draft, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Kamden Edge out of Northern Oklahoma Junior College. Edge, 20, pitched in 14 games this year for the Mavericks, logging a 3.25 ERA (19 ER in 52.2 IP) and 74 strikeouts (12.7 K/9). After the season, he made 2 appearances for Mahoning Valley in the MLB Draft League, striking out 7 in 4.0 innings. In the summer of 2024, he pitched in 9 games for the Hutchinson Monarchs in the Jayhawk Collegiate League, striking out 37 batters across 20.0 innings pitched (16.7 K/9).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591095847004.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals selected 17 players on the final day of the 2025 First-Year Player Draft.&nbsp;In total, the Royals selected 13 pitchers (12 RHP, 1 LHP), five infielders, three outfielders and one catcher. Of their 22 picks, 16 were from the college ranks, including 2 from JUCO, and six were high school players. Of note, out of the nine position players selected, only No. 28 (PPI) Josh Hammond bats right-handed.With the 128th overall pick in the 4th round, the Royals selected outfielder Nolan Sailors out of Creighton University (Neb.). Sailors, 22, slashed .389/.485/.584 (88-for-226, 1.069 OPS) with 28 extra-base hits, 44 RBI and 27 stolen bases in 59 games as a senior. In four seasons with the Bluejays, he played in 207 games and slashed .320/.422/.491 (251-for-784) with 19 home runs, 148 RBI and 63 stolen bases. He graduated from Ralston High School (Neb.), where he was named to the All-Nebraska and Super State First Teams after hitting .476 as a senior. He is a native of Omaha, Neb.With the 158th overall pick in the 5th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Aiden Jimenez out of the University of Arkansas. Jimenez, 21, completed his redshirt sophomore season with the Razorbacks in 2025, going 4-1 with 40 strikeouts (8.5 K/9) in 42.1 innings pitched, posting a 3.40 ERA (16 ER) in a team-high 22 games (2 GS). He began his collegiate career at Oregon State in 2023, where he appeared in 22 games (1 GS) and struck out 35 batters in 38.0 innings of work (8.3 K/9). Jimenez graduated from Elk Grove High School (Calif.). His father, Jason Jimenez, appeared in 6 Major League games with Tampa Bay (5) and Detroit (1) in 2002, and was a 28th round pick by the Rays in 1997. Jason was teammates with Royals Manager Matt Quatraro and Bench Coach Paul Hoover in the Rays minor league system from 1998-2002. His grandfather, Ken Hottman, also played in 6 MLB games in 1971.With the 188th overall pick in the 6th round, the Royals selected infielder Tyriq Kemp out of Baylor University (Texas). Kemp, 22, played in 55 games for the Bears this season, slashing .358/.446/.542 (72-for-201, .988 OPS) with 48 runs, 41 RBI and more walks (32) than strikeouts (27). He was also announced as a semifinalist for the Brooks Wallace Award in 2025, given annually to the nation’s top collegiate shortstop. In two seasons at Baylor, he posted an .849 OPS and batted .305 (110-for-361), playing in 108 games. In 2024, he played for Curaçao Neptunus in the Dutch Major League, and he slashed .292/.400/.427 (28-for-96, .827 OPS) as a 21-year-old, while playing alongside his older brother, Dwayne, who signed with the Cubs in 2009. Prior to attending Baylor, he played two seasons at Western Oklahoma State College (the same school that notable Curaçaoan shortstop Andrelton Simmons attended), where he hit .375 with 9 home runs and 41 RBI as a sophomore. Kemp was raised in The Netherlands and was a member of the Dutch National Teams from ages U15 to U23, guiding the U23 team to a gold medal at the European Baseball Championship in 2021.With the 218th overall pick in the 7th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Bryson Dudley out of Texas State University. Dudley, 21, just finished his first season with Texas State and earned CSC Academic All-District Team and Sun Belt Conference All-Tournament Team honors. He pitched in 24 games (2 GS) for the Bobcats, holding opponents to a .185 batting average that was a school record, paired with a 3.93 ERA (22 ER in 50.1 IP). He pitched in 2 games for Trenton in the MLB Draft League this year, striking out 13 batters in 7.0 innings. Spent two seasons at Blinn College (Texas) and helped the Buccaneers win the NJCAA National Championship as a sophomore in 2024.With the 248th overall pick in the 8th round, the Royals selected catcher Brooks Bryan out of Troy University (Ala.). Bryan, who is celebrating his 21st birthday today, spent each of the last three seasons at Troy, and started all 60 games for them this season, slashing .279/.399/.533 (64-for-229, .931 OPS) with 18 doubles and 12 home runs. He earned All-Sun Belt First Team honors as a sophomore in 2024 and was named a semifinalist for both the Dick Howser Trophy and the Golden Spikes Award, after he posted a .970 OPS with 18 home runs and 85 RBI in 58 games. He was a part of the 2024 Team USA Collegiate National Team, appearing in 4 games, and hit a grand slam on July 3 vs. Chinese Taipei. He also played in 7 games for Cotuit in the Cape Cod League in 2024. He batted .380 with 8 home runs as a senior at Opelika High School (Ala.) in 2022, the alma mater of 10-year MLB vet Roy Lee Jackson.With the 278th overall pick in the 9th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Shane Van Dam out of North Carolina State University. Van Dam, who underwent Tommy John Surgery in 2024, pitched in just 3 games (1 start) at the end of this season. The 21-year-old pitched in 16 games and covered 37.1 innings as a sophomore in 2024, striking out 38 batters (9.2 K/9). He played both baseball and football at SUNY Cortland in 2023, striking out 43 batters in 29.1 innings (13.2 K/9) while playing quarterback for the Red Dragons, but not appearing in a game. He graduated from Cranford High School (N.J.) in 2022, where he was a three-year member of the football team and a two-year starter on the baseball team. He was teammates with Kansas City’s 2025 5th rounder Aiden Jimenez and their 2024 12th rounder Tommy Molsky on the 2023 Chatham Anglers of the Cape Cod League.With the 308th overall pick in the 10th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Max Martin out of the University of California-Irvine. Martin, 21, finished his junior season with 14 saves, tied for 4th among all Division I pitchers this season, as well as a 3.29 ERA (14 ER in 38.1 IP) and 39 strikeouts. In three seasons at U.C. Irvine, he struck out 83 batters in 84.1 innings and earned 19 saves. Pitched in 8 games for the Pulaski River Turtles of the Appalachian League in 2024, and allowed just 2 runs (1 ER) across 15.0 innings (0.60 ERA), striking out 17 and walking just 3. He graduated from Sierra Canyon School (Calif.), where he was teammates with Kehden Hettiger, Philadelphia’s 11th round pick in 2023.With the 338th overall pick in the 11th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Hunter Alberini out of the University of Arizona. Alberini, 23, pitched in one season at Arizona, going 1-0 with 33 strikeouts (14.4 K/9) to just 7 walks (3.0 BB/9) and a 3.48 ERA (8 ER in 20.2 IP) in 18 games. Prior to joining the Wildcats, he spent two seasons at Umpqua Community College (Ore.) from 2021-22 and two seasons at the College of Southern Nevada (2023-24), the alma mater of Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper. In 2024, he pitched in 7 games for State College in the MLB Draft League and struck out 10 in 12.0 IP. He graduated from Centennial High School (Nev.) in 2020, where he earned two baseball letters.With the 368th overall pick in the 12th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Matthew Hoskins out of the University of Georgia. Hoskins, 21, made 18 appearances (2 starts) for the Bulldogs as a junior this year, and struck out 39 batters in just 27.1 innings (12.8 K/9), earning 1 win and 2 saves. After the season, he also pitched once for Trenton in the MLB Draft League, where he was teammates with Kansas City’s 7th round selection this year, Bryson Dudley. While at Georgia, he earned three SEC Academic Honor Roll nominations and struck out 67 batters across 50.2 innings (11.9 K/9). He graduated from Peachtree Ridge High School (Ga.) in 2022, where he went 4-3 with a 2.89 ERA and 62 strikeouts as a senior. He also batted .382 with 6 doubles, 5 home runs and 24 RBI as a senior, playing primarily as an outfielder when he wasn’t pitching. He was rated as the No. 11 prospect in the state of Georgia coming out of high school, per Perfect Game.With the 398th overall pick in the 13th round, the Royals selected infielder Tyson Moran out of the F.E. Madill Secondary School (Ontario, CAN). Moran, 19, is currently committed to play at North Dakota State University. He plays for the Great Lakes Canadians amateur baseball program, and is coached by former big leaguer Jamie Romak, who played in 27 games for the Dodgers (2014) and Diamondbacks (2015).With the 428th overall pick in the 14th round, the Royals selected infielder JC Vanek out of Chipola College (Fla.). Vanek, 20, slashed .395/.512/.631 (62-for-157, 1.143 OPS) with 9 home runs, 50 runs scored, 43 RBI and more walks (30) than strikeouts (27). Was named to the Panhandle All-Conference First Team in 2024 after leading Chipola in average (.366), hits (53) and RBI (47). He has since committed to Florida State University. After the season, he played in 16 games for Mahoning Valley in the MLB Draft League and posted a .712 OPS with 2 home runs, 13 RBI and 4 stolen bases in 16 games. He graduated from Alfred M. Barbe High School (La.) in 2023.With the 458th overall pick in the 15th round, the Royals selected infielder Connor Rasmussen out of Tulane University (La.). Rasmussen, 21, has spent each of the last two seasons at Tulane, and has slashed .321/.425/.485 (141-for-439, .910 OPS) in 120 games for the Green Wave, driving in 96 runs while scoring 92. He also drew more walks (71) than he had strikeouts (58). Prior to transferring to Tulane, he spent his freshman season at East Carolina University (N.C.), where he appeared in 17 games. He graduated from Fort Mill High School (S.C.) in 2022, where his .418 average as a senior guided his team to a state championship runner-up finish. His brother, Cole, was a long snapper for the University of South Carolina Gamecocks from 2021-24.With the 488th overall pick in the 16th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Randy Ramnarace out of the University of New Haven (Conn.). Ramnarace, 20, went 2-1 with a 2.51 ERA (9 ER in 32.1 IP) and 45 strikeouts (12.5 K/9) in 12 games (1 GS), earning 3 saves. He has spent three seasons with the Chargers, amassing a 9-5 record and a 4.28 ERA (56 ER in 117.2 IP) with 146 strikeouts. This summer, he pitched in 5 games for Bristol in the New England Collegiate Baseball League, his second consecutive summer in the NECBL after pitching in 5 games for Danbury in 2024. He graduated from Brentwood High School (N.Y.), where he was the team captain as a senior.With the 518th overall pick in the 17th round, the Royals selected outfielder Luke Nowak out of the University of Illinois at Chicago. Nowak, 22, just finished his senior season at UIC, and he posted a .387/.455/.559 (86-for-222, 1.014 OPS) slashline, leading the Missouri Valley Conference in average (.387), while ranking among qualified leaders in hits (3rd, 86), triples (T-4th, 3) and OBP (5th, .455). He spent the first three seasons of his collegiate career at East Carolina University (N.C.), where he was teammates with Kansas City’s 15th rounder Connor Rasmussen. In three seasons at ECU, he slashed .268/.382/.362 (71-for-265) with 17 extra-base hits and 49 RBI in 118 games (71 starts). He graduated from Menomonee Falls High School (Wis.), where he earned seven letters (3 in baseball, 4 in track and field), and was a two-time conference and regional champion in baseball as well as a four-time state qualifier in track.With the 548th overall pick in the 18th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Grayson Boles out of St. Augustine High School (Calif.). Boles, 18, is committed to the University of Texas, and is ranked the 9th-best right-handed pitcher in the state of California by Perfect Game. Per his Maxpreps.com page, he posted a 2.92 ERA (71 ER in 170.1 IP) in high school, including a 1.95 mark (17 ER in 61.0 IP) this year, with 81 strikeouts to just 22 walks. As a hitter, he batted .335 (55-for-164) in four years, and he hit 2 home runs while batting .393 (11-for-28) this season. He started the High School All-American Game on Aug. 15, 2024 at Petco Park, and finished the 1st inning with a strikeout.With the 578th overall pick in the 19th round, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Dylan Wood out of Franklin High School (Calif.). Wood, 18, went 8-0 as a senior while posting a 1.65 ERA (14 ER in 59.1 IP) with 100 strikeouts. He is ranked as the No. 102 prospect and No. 25 RHP nationally and as the No. 20 prospect and No. 6 RHP in California by Perfect Game. He pitched in 3 games for Team USA’s 18U National Team, allowing 1 run in 6.1 innings, and earned the win in the gold medal game at the 2024 WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier with 1.1 hitless innings. He is committed to play baseball at the University of Arizona.With the 608th overall pick in the 20th and final round of the 2025 Draft, the Royals selected right-handed pitcher Kamden Edge out of Northern Oklahoma Junior College. Edge, 20, pitched in 14 games this year for the Mavericks, logging a 3.25 ERA (19 ER in 52.2 IP) and 74 strikeouts (12.7 K/9). After the season, he made 2 appearances for Mahoning Valley in the MLB Draft League, striking out 7 in 4.0 innings. In the summer of 2024, he pitched in 9 games for the Hutchinson Monarchs in the Jayhawk Collegiate League, striking out 37 batters across 20.0 innings pitched (16.7 K/9).

⚾ Royals select 17 players on final day of First-Year Player Draft

Brett R. Moore, 54, passed away of natural causes on July 7, 2025, at his residence in rural Kingman, Kansas. He was born June 6, 1971, in Great Bend to Darrell J. "D.J." and Patricia (Shrauner) Moore.

Brett attended kindergarten in Kingman and elementary and high school in Hoisington, graduating in 1989. He continued his education at Hutchinson Community College majoring in Farm and Ranch Management, graduating in 1991. His lifetime desire was to farm and that is what he did for the rest of his life.

Brett was an active member of the community, serving for several years on the township board as well as trustee of the Penalosa United Methodist Church. His church membership was still in the Hoisington United Methodist Church, the church of his youth, but he had always attended Penalosa Methodist in the summers and after he started farming.

Survivors include his mother, Patricia Moore of Hoisington and rural Cunningham; long time friend, Jean Volk of Hutchinson, and right-hand man for years, who was intrusted with major farm decisions, Prisciliano De Santiago of rural Cunningham. He was preceded in death by his father and infant twin siblings, Phillip J. and Peggy K. Moore.

Graveside services will be held at 9:30 a.m., Monday, July 14, 2025, at Sego Cemetery, rural Reno County, with Reverend Mike McGovney presiding. Take Kansas Hwy 11 between US-54 and Arlington, Kan. Turn East on Pretty Prairie Rd. for 2 miles, then 1 mile North and ½ mile West on the North side. Memorials have been designated to Penalosa United Methodist Church, in care of Bryant Funeral&nbsp; Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752522223244.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Brett R. Moore, 54, passed away of natural causes on July 7, 2025, at his residence in rural Kingman, Kansas. He was born June 6, 1971, in Great Bend to Darrell J. "D.J." and Patricia (Shrauner) Moore.Brett attended kindergarten in Kingman and elementary and high school in Hoisington, graduating in 1989. He continued his education at Hutchinson Community College majoring in Farm and Ranch Management, graduating in 1991. His lifetime desire was to farm and that is what he did for the rest of his life.Brett was an active member of the community, serving for several years on the township board as well as trustee of the Penalosa United Methodist Church. His church membership was still in the Hoisington United Methodist Church, the church of his youth, but he had always attended Penalosa Methodist in the summers and after he started farming.Survivors include his mother, Patricia Moore of Hoisington and rural Cunningham; long time friend, Jean Volk of Hutchinson, and right-hand man for years, who was intrusted with major farm decisions, Prisciliano De Santiago of rural Cunningham. He was preceded in death by his father and infant twin siblings, Phillip J. and Peggy K. Moore.Graveside services will be held at 9:30 a.m., Monday, July 14, 2025, at Sego Cemetery, rural Reno County, with Reverend Mike McGovney presiding. Take Kansas Hwy 11 between US-54 and Arlington, Kan. Turn East on Pretty Prairie Rd. for 2 miles, then 1 mile North and ½ mile West on the North side. Memorials have been designated to Penalosa United Methodist Church, in care of Bryant Funeral&nbsp; Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.&nbsp;

Brett R. Moore |1971-2025|

Pamela Jane Wheeler, 75, passed away on July 13, 2025, at Hospice House in Hutchinson, KS. Pam was born on May 5, 1950, in Hutchinson, the daughter of Lawrence and Dorothy (Ellis) Burgess.

Pam graduated from Hutchinson High School and got her degree in business at Sterling College. On April 25, 1968, Pam married her high school sweetheart, Charles Wheeler. Together Pam and Charlie were never shy, with starting new adventures and businesses. Soon after marriage they opened their first business, a specialty cigar shop. Pam earned her real-estate license and started a many decades long career in home sales. She also enjoyed traveling, so she started a career as a travel agent. Pam’s parents built and ran the R-B Drive In for 35 years. When her parents decided to retire, Pam and Charlie bought the Drive In from her parents and then owned it for another 35 years. During all this time of helping her husband to manage the restaurant, Pam sold real estate and continued as a travel agent.

Pam never slowed down, she loved to travel. Pam and Charlie enjoyed going to Vegas and having fun at casinos. They also enjoyed going on cruises to the Caribbean and other exotic places. They traveled the globe. Pam had a well accomplished life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Bradley Burgess and Dudley Burgess.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Wheeler; son, Chuck (Erin) Wheeler and two grandchildren, Jolee and Vincent Wheeler, all of Hutchinson; and her two precious puppy girls, Lizzy and MiTi.

Per Pam’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Friends&nbsp; may sign her book Tuesday-Friday from 9:00 – 4:30 p.m. at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hutchinson Animal Shelter and can be sent in care of the funeral chapel.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752516217497.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Pamela Jane Wheeler, 75, passed away on July 13, 2025, at Hospice House in Hutchinson, KS. Pam was born on May 5, 1950, in Hutchinson, the daughter of Lawrence and Dorothy (Ellis) Burgess.Pam graduated from Hutchinson High School and got her degree in business at Sterling College. On April 25, 1968, Pam married her high school sweetheart, Charles Wheeler. Together Pam and Charlie were never shy, with starting new adventures and businesses. Soon after marriage they opened their first business, a specialty cigar shop. Pam earned her real-estate license and started a many decades long career in home sales. She also enjoyed traveling, so she started a career as a travel agent. Pam’s parents built and ran the R-B Drive In for 35 years. When her parents decided to retire, Pam and Charlie bought the Drive In from her parents and then owned it for another 35 years. During all this time of helping her husband to manage the restaurant, Pam sold real estate and continued as a travel agent.Pam never slowed down, she loved to travel. Pam and Charlie enjoyed going to Vegas and having fun at casinos. They also enjoyed going on cruises to the Caribbean and other exotic places. They traveled the globe. Pam had a well accomplished life.She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Bradley Burgess and Dudley Burgess.She is survived by her husband, Charles Wheeler; son, Chuck (Erin) Wheeler and two grandchildren, Jolee and Vincent Wheeler, all of Hutchinson; and her two precious puppy girls, Lizzy and MiTi.Per Pam’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Friends&nbsp; may sign her book Tuesday-Friday from 9:00 – 4:30 p.m. at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hutchinson Animal Shelter and can be sent in care of the funeral chapel.&nbsp;

Pamela Jane Wheeler |1950-2025|

Helen Steed, 103, longtime resident of Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away on July 10, 2025. She is survived by her two children, Diane Kay Steed of Annapolis, Maryland and Krisit Sue Steed of Wichita, Kansas. Helen was preceded in death by her husband Charles, her parents, Fred and Wilhemina Aschman, her brother, Marvin Aschman, and her sisters, Dorothy Aschman and Mildred Dalton.&nbsp;

Born in Nickerson, Kansas on August 18, 1921. Helen attended Nickerson High School and Hutchinson Junior College where she was a Salutatorian of her graduating class and met her husband, Charles. They were married 58 years.&nbsp;

Helen was a homemaker and member of Park Place Christian Church. She enjoyed reading, a variety of crafts, knitting, and golf. She also enjoyed visiting with her neighbors and baking them muffins and coffee cake, doing the daily crossword puzzle, and watching a variety of birds at her backyard feeder. She was an active volunteer with the Red Cross, the Hutchinson Hospital Auxiliary, and the Friendship Bookshop at the Hutchinson Public Library. She also loved to travel, especially on a variety of trips to Europe and family trips to Florida and Colorado. Two of her favorites were Italy and Austria. She was a long-time member of PEO Chapter BY, the Hutchinson Art Association, and Prairie Dunes.&nbsp;

Her most recent passion was watching Kansas University basketball games and cheering on the Jayhawks. She was undoubtedly their oldest and Number One Fan. Unless it was virtually impossible, she never missed a game…or the Coach’s post-game show. She received a note from KU Coach Self on her hundredth birthday.&nbsp;

Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Park Place Christian Church, 2600 N. Adams, Hutchinson, with Reverend Dr. Kim Biery officiating. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Park Place Christian Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson,&nbsp; KS, 67501.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752499101384.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Helen Steed, 103, longtime resident of Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away on July 10, 2025. She is survived by her two children, Diane Kay Steed of Annapolis, Maryland and Krisit Sue Steed of Wichita, Kansas. Helen was preceded in death by her husband Charles, her parents, Fred and Wilhemina Aschman, her brother, Marvin Aschman, and her sisters, Dorothy Aschman and Mildred Dalton.&nbsp;Born in Nickerson, Kansas on August 18, 1921. Helen attended Nickerson High School and Hutchinson Junior College where she was a Salutatorian of her graduating class and met her husband, Charles. They were married 58 years.&nbsp;Helen was a homemaker and member of Park Place Christian Church. She enjoyed reading, a variety of crafts, knitting, and golf. She also enjoyed visiting with her neighbors and baking them muffins and coffee cake, doing the daily crossword puzzle, and watching a variety of birds at her backyard feeder. She was an active volunteer with the Red Cross, the Hutchinson Hospital Auxiliary, and the Friendship Bookshop at the Hutchinson Public Library. She also loved to travel, especially on a variety of trips to Europe and family trips to Florida and Colorado. Two of her favorites were Italy and Austria. She was a long-time member of PEO Chapter BY, the Hutchinson Art Association, and Prairie Dunes.&nbsp;Her most recent passion was watching Kansas University basketball games and cheering on the Jayhawks. She was undoubtedly their oldest and Number One Fan. Unless it was virtually impossible, she never missed a game…or the Coach’s post-game show. She received a note from KU Coach Self on her hundredth birthday.&nbsp;Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Park Place Christian Church, 2600 N. Adams, Hutchinson, with Reverend Dr. Kim Biery officiating. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;Cremation has taken place.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Park Place Christian Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson,&nbsp; KS, 67501.&nbsp;

Helen R Steed |1921-2025|

 With summer in full swing and visitors flocking to local events, the Hutchinson Police Department is stepping up its traffic enforcement efforts to keep residents and guests safe on the roads.

Officer Lane Hammond, who’s served more than four years with the department’s Traffic Unit, says the department is now fully staffed — a welcome boost to ongoing safety campaigns like the “Click It or Ticket” initiative and the annual July Speeding Campaign.

The speeding campaign, sponsored by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), runs through July 15 and focuses on cracking down on drivers who exceed speed limits, especially in high-traffic areas near fairgrounds and downtown. “We’re just trying to get people to slow down again,” Hammond said, adding that the program doesn’t cost the city thanks to state funding.

Hammond reminds drivers to pay close attention to changing speed limits, especially downtown. Main Street, for example, varies from 30 mph to 20 mph depending on the block. Residential streets remain at 30 mph unless otherwise posted.

The department’s four motorcycle officers — now riding two new Harley-Davidsons alongside older models — will be highly visible during the campaign. They use radar and lidar guns to detect speeding vehicles and are easily spotted thanks to their updated uniforms.

With Hutchinson seeing frequent construction and resurfacing projects, Hammond urges drivers to slow down in neighborhoods and watch for equipment on the roads. He also reminds motorists about Kansas’ “Move Over” law, recently expanded to require drivers to move over or slow down for any vehicle on the roadside with hazard lights on — not just emergency vehicles.

Abandoned or broken-down vehicles must be moved within 72 hours to avoid becoming hazards, Hammond said.

Looking ahead, the department is preparing for back-to-school season with improved school zone safety measures. Three new flashing crosswalk signals are being installed, with more planned to help protect students crossing busy streets. Officer Hammond also noted that trouble spots like the pedestrian crossing by Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College are under close watch.

One recurring challenge for officers is enforcing proper merging and turning practices — and discouraging “J-turns” downtown, where drivers illegally cross multiple lanes to snag a parking spot. “Just go around the block,” Hammond said. “It’s safer for everyone.”

Residents can report road hazards, illegal parking, or traffic concerns through the city’s “SeeClickFix” tool on the Hutchinson city website — a resource that Hammond calls the department’s “bread and butter” for community input.

As Hutchinson braces for a busy summer of events, Officer Hammond says the department’s top priority remains clear: “We want everyone to get where they’re going safely.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582822413263.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post With summer in full swing and visitors flocking to local events, the Hutchinson Police Department is stepping up its traffic enforcement efforts to keep residents and guests safe on the roads.Officer Lane Hammond, who’s served more than four years with the department’s Traffic Unit, says the department is now fully staffed — a welcome boost to ongoing safety campaigns like the “Click It or Ticket” initiative and the annual July Speeding Campaign.The speeding campaign, sponsored by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), runs through July 15 and focuses on cracking down on drivers who exceed speed limits, especially in high-traffic areas near fairgrounds and downtown. “We’re just trying to get people to slow down again,” Hammond said, adding that the program doesn’t cost the city thanks to state funding.<h2>Speed Zones and New Patrol Tools</h2>Hammond reminds drivers to pay close attention to changing speed limits, especially downtown. Main Street, for example, varies from 30 mph to 20 mph depending on the block. Residential streets remain at 30 mph unless otherwise posted.The department’s four motorcycle officers — now riding two new Harley-Davidsons alongside older models — will be highly visible during the campaign. They use radar and lidar guns to detect speeding vehicles and are easily spotted thanks to their updated uniforms.<h2>Keeping Roads Clear and Safe</h2>With Hutchinson seeing frequent construction and resurfacing projects, Hammond urges drivers to slow down in neighborhoods and watch for equipment on the roads. He also reminds motorists about Kansas’ “Move Over” law, recently expanded to require drivers to move over or slow down for any vehicle on the roadside with hazard lights on — not just emergency vehicles.Abandoned or broken-down vehicles must be moved within 72 hours to avoid becoming hazards, Hammond said.<h2>School Zones and Pedestrian Safety</h2>Looking ahead, the department is preparing for back-to-school season with improved school zone safety measures. Three new flashing crosswalk signals are being installed, with more planned to help protect students crossing busy streets. Officer Hammond also noted that trouble spots like the pedestrian crossing by Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College are under close watch.<h2>Merging Hazards and Common Violations</h2>One recurring challenge for officers is enforcing proper merging and turning practices — and discouraging “J-turns” downtown, where drivers illegally cross multiple lanes to snag a parking spot. “Just go around the block,” Hammond said. “It’s safer for everyone.”<h2>Community Feedback Encouraged</h2>Residents can report road hazards, illegal parking, or traffic concerns through the city’s “SeeClickFix” tool on the Hutchinson city website — a resource that Hammond calls the department’s “bread and butter” for community input.As Hutchinson braces for a busy summer of events, Officer Hammond says the department’s top priority remains clear: “We want everyone to get where they’re going safely.”

Hutch Police highlight summer traffic safety efforts

Sharon Rae Rantin, 77, died July 4, 2025, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. &nbsp;She was born March 8, 1948, in St. Maries, ID, to Raymond and June (Nighswonger) Finstad.

Sharon graduated from Conway Springs High School in 1966, and attended Pikes Peak Community College. &nbsp;For 10 years, she worked in custodial services at Trinity Catholic High School. &nbsp;Sharon retired as a manager from Pantry Plus, after 10 years of service. &nbsp;She enjoyed reading, and spending time with her numerous dogs and cats that she cared for and took under her wing. &nbsp;Sharon was a devout Catholic, spending countless hours praying the Rosary and reading her Bible. &nbsp;She was a member of Church of the Holy Cross, Hutchinson. &nbsp;

On September 7, 1982, she married Barry Jacob Rantin, in Great Bend. &nbsp;

Sharon is survived by: &nbsp;her husband of almost 43 years, Barry Rantin of Hutchinson; children, Chad Walker of Conway Springs, Natasha Walker (Bethany) of Wichita, and Jeremy Blaine of Hutchinson; half-brother, Cliff Smith (Kathryn) of Conway Springs; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild

She was preceded in death by: &nbsp;her father, Raymond Finstad; mother, June Nighswonger-Smith; stepfather, J.A. Smith; and brother Leslie Finstad, Sr.

Parish Rosary will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 16, 2025, with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m., both at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631 Independence Road, Hutchinson. &nbsp;Inurnment will follow in Eastside Cemetery, Hutchinson. &nbsp;Friends may sign the book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Sharon. Rantin Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501. &nbsp;To benefit the Sharon Rantin Memorial Fund, please make the check payable to Elliott&nbsp; Mortuary.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752076500012.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Sharon Rae Rantin, 77, died July 4, 2025, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. &nbsp;She was born March 8, 1948, in St. Maries, ID, to Raymond and June (Nighswonger) Finstad.Sharon graduated from Conway Springs High School in 1966, and attended Pikes Peak Community College. &nbsp;For 10 years, she worked in custodial services at Trinity Catholic High School. &nbsp;Sharon retired as a manager from Pantry Plus, after 10 years of service. &nbsp;She enjoyed reading, and spending time with her numerous dogs and cats that she cared for and took under her wing. &nbsp;Sharon was a devout Catholic, spending countless hours praying the Rosary and reading her Bible. &nbsp;She was a member of Church of the Holy Cross, Hutchinson. &nbsp;On September 7, 1982, she married Barry Jacob Rantin, in Great Bend. &nbsp;Sharon is survived by: &nbsp;her husband of almost 43 years, Barry Rantin of Hutchinson; children, Chad Walker of Conway Springs, Natasha Walker (Bethany) of Wichita, and Jeremy Blaine of Hutchinson; half-brother, Cliff Smith (Kathryn) of Conway Springs; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchildShe was preceded in death by: &nbsp;her father, Raymond Finstad; mother, June Nighswonger-Smith; stepfather, J.A. Smith; and brother Leslie Finstad, Sr.Parish Rosary will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 16, 2025, with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m., both at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631 Independence Road, Hutchinson. &nbsp;Inurnment will follow in Eastside Cemetery, Hutchinson. &nbsp;Friends may sign the book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Sharon. Rantin Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501. &nbsp;To benefit the Sharon Rantin Memorial Fund, please make the check payable to Elliott&nbsp; Mortuary.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sharon R. Rantin |1948-2025|

Mary L. Gaeddert died on July 4, 2025 at Kidron Bethel Village, North Newton, Kansas. She was 94. Mary Lou Voran was born October 7, 1930, in Kingman County, Kansas, the daughter of Fred Ernest and Edna Mary (Graber) Voran. Mary was a graduate of Kingman High School and attended Bethel College (Kansas) where she received a teaching certificate. Mary taught first grade in Sedgwick, Kansas, before marrying John W. Gaeddert on June 1, 1951 at Bethany Mennonite Church in Kingman County. Mary described herself as a “helpmate” to her teacher/pastor husband, moving from rural Lehigh, Kansas to urban Chicago, Illinois and suburban Elkhart, Indiana; from Henderson, Nebraska to faraway Congo/Zaire; from the parsonage at Tabor Mennonite Church to a house in North Newton and finally to Kidron Bethel Village. At each stop along the way Mary had many jobs: teaching Sunday School, hosting church members and visiting speakers at the family home, and being stay-at-home mom to Susan, Dee and Russ. She sewed outfits and cooked meal after meal after expertly prepared meal. She helped her kids put on a circus for the neighborhood. Singing in church and community choirs was one of her life’s great joys, and Mary anchored every soprano section she ever sang in. She did daily battle with John’s many cowlicks. John’s career took the family many, many places, and Mary made a home wherever they went. But how do you make a home in the capital city of a country recently and violently overthrown in a coup? In Kinshasa in the 1960s, Mary did it, working with unfamiliar ingredients and in uncertain times, setting tables for her kids and famished Pax men alike. How do you make a home when the church owns it, when little is yours alone and all eyes are on you as the pastor’s wife? In rural Goessel, Mary did it, as the Vietnam War raged, protests erupted and the children grew. How do you make a home when all you had was sold off before the previous move? How do you make a home when the bank account dips dangerously low? When you feel utterly spent, at your wit’s end? Mary did it. Mary Lou Gaeddert made her homes well, with love, talent and determination. With the children grown and the demands at home more manageable, Mary began a second career as a copy editor and proofreader for Faith and Life Press and a typesetter for Mennonite Press in Newton, Kansas, retiring in 1992. The need for careful precision and sustained attention suited Mary. Under her watchful eye, many a “who” became a “whom.” The dictionary tells us there is a difference between “love” and “like”; Mary loved all, as Jesus taught, but she had no particular fondness for the players and coaches of teams that opposed her Kansas Jayhawks, Kansas City Chiefs, and Kansas City Royals. Special enmity was reserved for the likes of John Elway and Kirby Puckett. Puckett once apologized in writing to Mary for hitting a game-winning home run against the Royals. Whether Mary truly accepted that apology is unknown, but that restaurant ticket autographed by Puckett maintained a place of pride on the Gaeddert pinboard for many years. Mary is survived by three children: Susan Bartel (Allan) of North Newton, Kansas; Dee Gaeddert Dorsey (Jim) of Grant, Minnesota.; and Russell Gaeddert (Jean Flickinger) of Hutchinson, Kansas; four grandchildren: Nathan Bartel (Kendra Burkey), Megan Bartel (Chris Lowen), Adam Gaeddert (Rebecca Woodruff), and Sam Gaeddert (Keila Quenzer); six great-grandchildren; and sisters-in-law Lois Strong and Velma Stoesz. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Dallas Voran, Paul Voran (Benetta and second wife Grace), and Robert Voran; one sister, Helen M. Voth (Orville); and her beloved husband of 69 years, John W. Gaeddert. The family will celebrate Mary’s life in a private service at a later date. Memorial gifts

may be made to Bethel College (Kansas) or Mennonite Central Committee. She will be dearly missed. May she rest in&nbsp; peace.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752076332822.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Mary L. Gaeddert died on July 4, 2025 at Kidron Bethel Village, North Newton, Kansas. She was 94. Mary Lou Voran was born October 7, 1930, in Kingman County, Kansas, the daughter of Fred Ernest and Edna Mary (Graber) Voran. Mary was a graduate of Kingman High School and attended Bethel College (Kansas) where she received a teaching certificate. Mary taught first grade in Sedgwick, Kansas, before marrying John W. Gaeddert on June 1, 1951 at Bethany Mennonite Church in Kingman County. Mary described herself as a “helpmate” to her teacher/pastor husband, moving from rural Lehigh, Kansas to urban Chicago, Illinois and suburban Elkhart, Indiana; from Henderson, Nebraska to faraway Congo/Zaire; from the parsonage at Tabor Mennonite Church to a house in North Newton and finally to Kidron Bethel Village. At each stop along the way Mary had many jobs: teaching Sunday School, hosting church members and visiting speakers at the family home, and being stay-at-home mom to Susan, Dee and Russ. She sewed outfits and cooked meal after meal after expertly prepared meal. She helped her kids put on a circus for the neighborhood. Singing in church and community choirs was one of her life’s great joys, and Mary anchored every soprano section she ever sang in. She did daily battle with John’s many cowlicks. John’s career took the family many, many places, and Mary made a home wherever they went. But how do you make a home in the capital city of a country recently and violently overthrown in a coup? In Kinshasa in the 1960s, Mary did it, working with unfamiliar ingredients and in uncertain times, setting tables for her kids and famished Pax men alike. How do you make a home when the church owns it, when little is yours alone and all eyes are on you as the pastor’s wife? In rural Goessel, Mary did it, as the Vietnam War raged, protests erupted and the children grew. How do you make a home when all you had was sold off before the previous move? How do you make a home when the bank account dips dangerously low? When you feel utterly spent, at your wit’s end? Mary did it. Mary Lou Gaeddert made her homes well, with love, talent and determination. With the children grown and the demands at home more manageable, Mary began a second career as a copy editor and proofreader for Faith and Life Press and a typesetter for Mennonite Press in Newton, Kansas, retiring in 1992. The need for careful precision and sustained attention suited Mary. Under her watchful eye, many a “who” became a “whom.” The dictionary tells us there is a difference between “love” and “like”; Mary loved all, as Jesus taught, but she had no particular fondness for the players and coaches of teams that opposed her Kansas Jayhawks, Kansas City Chiefs, and Kansas City Royals. Special enmity was reserved for the likes of John Elway and Kirby Puckett. Puckett once apologized in writing to Mary for hitting a game-winning home run against the Royals. Whether Mary truly accepted that apology is unknown, but that restaurant ticket autographed by Puckett maintained a place of pride on the Gaeddert pinboard for many years. Mary is survived by three children: Susan Bartel (Allan) of North Newton, Kansas; Dee Gaeddert Dorsey (Jim) of Grant, Minnesota.; and Russell Gaeddert (Jean Flickinger) of Hutchinson, Kansas; four grandchildren: Nathan Bartel (Kendra Burkey), Megan Bartel (Chris Lowen), Adam Gaeddert (Rebecca Woodruff), and Sam Gaeddert (Keila Quenzer); six great-grandchildren; and sisters-in-law Lois Strong and Velma Stoesz. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Dallas Voran, Paul Voran (Benetta and second wife Grace), and Robert Voran; one sister, Helen M. Voth (Orville); and her beloved husband of 69 years, John W. Gaeddert. The family will celebrate Mary’s life in a private service at a later date. Memorial giftsmay be made to Bethel College (Kansas) or Mennonite Central Committee. She will be dearly missed. May she rest in&nbsp; peace.&nbsp;

Mary Lou Gaeddert |1930-2025|

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2ab7cf60-f27a-4bce-b961-fce18ee0f870">Hutchinson Monarchs</a>&nbsp;vs Haysville Aviators&nbsp; •&nbsp;6 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2ab7cf60-f27a-4bce-b961-fce18ee0f870">Hutchinson Monarchs</a>&nbsp;vs Haysville Aviators&nbsp; •&nbsp;6 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hutchinson Jazz Band&nbsp; • 8 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Stringer Fine Arts Center - Hutchinson Community College

<a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Kids Summer Film Series 'The Wild Robot'</a> • 10 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Fox Theatre&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.rcfmks.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKBmQRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEzdkdJUGtVbEdjY3V1Y3VTAR7lGJ1kAckMgUcnSI756UiNOiYC1K0-RHoYZK0mtlkb0zLN-LBjMwKVCH4OYQ_aem_Om5fLM_EfizOIqFnwNunyg">Reno County Farmers Market</a>&nbsp;•&nbsp;10 a.m. to 1p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Second Ave and Washington Street&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2ab7cf60-f27a-4bce-b961-fce18ee0f870">Hutchinson Monarchs</a>&nbsp;vs Great Bend Bat Cats •&nbsp;7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Kids Summer Film Series 'The Wild Robot' </a>• 2 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Fox Theatre&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Classic Film Series 'True Grit'</a> • 7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Fox Theatre

Family Zoo Nights Fairy Tails • 6 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Zoo

<a href="https://www.rcfmks.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKBmQRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEzdkdJUGtVbEdjY3V1Y3VTAR7lGJ1kAckMgUcnSI756UiNOiYC1K0-RHoYZK0mtlkb0zLN-LBjMwKVCH4OYQ_aem_Om5fLM_EfizOIqFnwNunyg">Reno County Farmers Market</a>&nbsp;•&nbsp;7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Second Ave and Washington Street&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/saturday-morning-artists-qa">Saturday Morning Artists</a>&nbsp;• 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Art Center - 405 North Washington&nbsp;

T&amp;A Coin and Gun Auction • 10 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas State Fairgrounds - Lake Talbot East&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Classic Film Series 'True Grit'</a> • 2 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Fox Theatre&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2ab7cf60-f27a-4bce-b961-fce18ee0f870">Hutchinson Monarchs</a>&nbsp;vs Kingman Islanders •&nbsp;7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746195311906.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Tuesday July 8</h2><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2ab7cf60-f27a-4bce-b961-fce18ee0f870">Hutchinson Monarchs</a>&nbsp;vs Haysville Aviators&nbsp; •&nbsp;6 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2ab7cf60-f27a-4bce-b961-fce18ee0f870">Hutchinson Monarchs</a>&nbsp;vs Haysville Aviators&nbsp; •&nbsp;6 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp;Hutchinson Jazz Band&nbsp; • 8 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Stringer Fine Arts Center - Hutchinson Community College<h2>Wednesday July 9</h2><a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Kids Summer Film Series 'The Wild Robot'</a> • 10 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Fox Theatre&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rcfmks.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKBmQRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEzdkdJUGtVbEdjY3V1Y3VTAR7lGJ1kAckMgUcnSI756UiNOiYC1K0-RHoYZK0mtlkb0zLN-LBjMwKVCH4OYQ_aem_Om5fLM_EfizOIqFnwNunyg">Reno County Farmers Market</a>&nbsp;•&nbsp;10 a.m. to 1p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Second Ave and Washington Street&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2ab7cf60-f27a-4bce-b961-fce18ee0f870">Hutchinson Monarchs</a>&nbsp;vs Great Bend Bat Cats •&nbsp;7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<h2>Thursday July 10</h2><a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Kids Summer Film Series 'The Wild Robot' </a>• 2 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Fox Theatre&nbsp; <a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Classic Film Series 'True Grit'</a> • 7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Fox Theatre<h2>Friday July 11</h2>Family Zoo Nights Fairy Tails • 6 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Zoo<h2>Saturday July 12</h2><a href="https://www.rcfmks.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKBmQRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEzdkdJUGtVbEdjY3V1Y3VTAR7lGJ1kAckMgUcnSI756UiNOiYC1K0-RHoYZK0mtlkb0zLN-LBjMwKVCH4OYQ_aem_Om5fLM_EfizOIqFnwNunyg">Reno County Farmers Market</a>&nbsp;•&nbsp;7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Second Ave and Washington Street&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/saturday-morning-artists-qa">Saturday Morning Artists</a>&nbsp;• 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Art Center - 405 North Washington&nbsp;T&amp;A Coin and Gun Auction • 10 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas State Fairgrounds - Lake Talbot East&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchinsonfox.com/">Fox Classic Film Series 'True Grit'</a> • 2 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Fox Theatre&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2ab7cf60-f27a-4bce-b961-fce18ee0f870">Hutchinson Monarchs</a>&nbsp;vs Kingman Islanders •&nbsp;7 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hobart-Detter Field&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Happenings Around Hutch • July 9 - July 15

Deborah Diann Clothier, 73, passed away Monday, July 7, 2025, in Hutchinson, KS. Deborah was born on May 17, 1952, in Wichita, KS, the daughter of Willard and Eva (Mullins) Tracy.

In 1971, Deborah graduated from Buhler High School and later attended Sidney’s Hairdressing College and Salt City Business College. She received her associates degree from Barton Community College. On December 22, 1973, Deborah married Donald E. Clothier in Hutchinson.

Deborah enjoyed art, painting, sewing, traveling and spending as much of her free time with her family. She was a member of Crossroads Christian Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Donald; two brothers, Robert Luce and Timothy Tracy; and one son-in-law, Brandon Hoffman.

Deborah is survived by her three daughters, Melissa Hoffman, Dawnita (Chad) Morgan, and Amanda Wright; two sisters, Belinda Vierthaler and Rita (Robert) Vredenburg; one brother, Bill Tracy; 21 grandchildren, Renee Hoffman, SueAnn (Gary) Vincent, Dean Hoffman, Thomas Hoffman, Corly Hoffman, Kevan Hoffman, Skylar Hoffman, Cary Hoffman, Hunter Hoffman, Gregory Hoffman, Patrick Hoffman, Maxim Hoffman, Elliana Hoffman, Samantha Hoffman, Mariana Hoffman, Joyanna Hoffman, Ashlee (Joseph) Harper, Rachel Morgan, Ethan (Mariah) Morgan, Jakeup Wright and Whisper Wright; and 10 great grandchildren.

A graveside inurnment will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Plevna Cemetery, Plevna, Ks. Friends may sign her memorial book between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Crossroads Christian Church, in the memo, please put, Deborah Clothier Memorial and can be sent in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67502.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751982871454.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Deborah Diann Clothier, 73, passed away Monday, July 7, 2025, in Hutchinson, KS. Deborah was born on May 17, 1952, in Wichita, KS, the daughter of Willard and Eva (Mullins) Tracy.In 1971, Deborah graduated from Buhler High School and later attended Sidney’s Hairdressing College and Salt City Business College. She received her associates degree from Barton Community College. On December 22, 1973, Deborah married Donald E. Clothier in Hutchinson.Deborah enjoyed art, painting, sewing, traveling and spending as much of her free time with her family. She was a member of Crossroads Christian Church.She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Donald; two brothers, Robert Luce and Timothy Tracy; and one son-in-law, Brandon Hoffman.Deborah is survived by her three daughters, Melissa Hoffman, Dawnita (Chad) Morgan, and Amanda Wright; two sisters, Belinda Vierthaler and Rita (Robert) Vredenburg; one brother, Bill Tracy; 21 grandchildren, Renee Hoffman, SueAnn (Gary) Vincent, Dean Hoffman, Thomas Hoffman, Corly Hoffman, Kevan Hoffman, Skylar Hoffman, Cary Hoffman, Hunter Hoffman, Gregory Hoffman, Patrick Hoffman, Maxim Hoffman, Elliana Hoffman, Samantha Hoffman, Mariana Hoffman, Joyanna Hoffman, Ashlee (Joseph) Harper, Rachel Morgan, Ethan (Mariah) Morgan, Jakeup Wright and Whisper Wright; and 10 great grandchildren.A graveside inurnment will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Plevna Cemetery, Plevna, Ks. Friends may sign her memorial book between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Crossroads Christian Church, in the memo, please put, Deborah Clothier Memorial and can be sent in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67502.&nbsp;

Deborah Diann Clothier |1952-2025|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fresh off a share of the 2024 NJCAA Division I football national title, Hutchinson Community College will open the 2025 season ranked No. 1 in the JCGridiron Dirty 30 Preseason Rankings, released July 4.

The Blue Dragons top the national list, edging out Iowa Western and defending co-champion San Mateo. San Mateo, which claimed the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) title, shares last year’s national crown with Hutchinson.

This marks the second straight year the Blue Dragons open the season with the preseason No. 1 ranking.

Hutchinson begins its 2025 campaign on Saturday, Sept. 6, with a road matchup at New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell, New Mexico.

The Blue Dragons have been a consistent national contender, appearing in three of the last five NJCAA championship games and winning or sharing the national title in both 2021 and 2024.

JCGridiron’s rankings are based on roster strength, coaching continuity, and key positional talent — especially at quarterback. Hutchinson’s veteran leadership and key offseason additions helped solidify its top ranking.

Rounding out the top five are Iowa Western, San Mateo, Garden City and Mt. San Antonio.

Hutchinson is one of three Kansas programs featured in the preseason rankings. Garden City makes a surprising jump to No. 4 following a 1-10 season in 2023 that was later adjusted due to forfeitures, while Butler lands at No. 20 after going 7-4.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751854783604.png" alt="Photo Courtesy JCGridiron" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy JCGridiron</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fresh off a share of the 2024 NJCAA Division I football national title, Hutchinson Community College will open the 2025 season ranked No. 1 in the JCGridiron Dirty 30 Preseason Rankings, released July 4.The Blue Dragons top the national list, edging out Iowa Western and defending co-champion San Mateo. San Mateo, which claimed the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) title, shares last year’s national crown with Hutchinson.This marks the second straight year the Blue Dragons open the season with the preseason No. 1 ranking.Hutchinson begins its 2025 campaign on Saturday, Sept. 6, with a road matchup at New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell, New Mexico.The Blue Dragons have been a consistent national contender, appearing in three of the last five NJCAA championship games and winning or sharing the national title in both 2021 and 2024.JCGridiron’s rankings are based on roster strength, coaching continuity, and key positional talent — especially at quarterback. Hutchinson’s veteran leadership and key offseason additions helped solidify its top ranking.Rounding out the top five are Iowa Western, San Mateo, Garden City and Mt. San Antonio.Hutchinson is one of three Kansas programs featured in the preseason rankings. Garden City makes a surprising jump to No. 4 following a 1-10 season in 2023 that was later adjusted due to forfeitures, while Butler lands at No. 20 after going 7-4.<div><table border="1" cellpadding="6" cellspacing="0">
 <thead>
 <tr>
 <th>Rank</th>
 <th>School</th>
 <th>City</th>
 <th>2024 Record</th>
 <th>2024 Final Rank</th>
 </tr>
 </thead>
 <tbody>
 <tr><td>1</td><td>Hutchinson</td><td>Hutchinson, KS</td><td>11-1</td><td>T-1</td></tr>
 <tr><td>2</td><td>Iowa Western</td><td>Council Bluffs, IA</td><td>11-2</td><td>3</td></tr>
 <tr><td>3</td><td>San Mateo</td><td>San Mateo, CA</td><td>12-1</td><td>T-1</td></tr>
 <tr><td>4</td><td>Garden City</td><td>Garden City, KS</td><td>1-10*</td><td>NR</td></tr>
 <tr><td>5</td><td>Mt. San Antonio</td><td>Walnut, CA</td><td>12-1</td><td>4</td></tr>
 <tr><td>6</td><td>East Mississippi</td><td>Scooba, MS</td><td>5-4</td><td>31</td></tr>
 <tr><td>7</td><td>Gulf Coast</td><td>Perkinston, MS</td><td>8-2</td><td>14</td></tr>
 <tr><td>8</td><td>Riverside City</td><td>Riverside, CA</td><td>10-2</td><td>5</td></tr>
 <tr><td>9</td><td>Northwest</td><td>Senatobia, MS</td><td>10-2</td><td>6</td></tr>
 <tr><td>10</td><td>El Camino</td><td>Torrance, CA</td><td>7-4</td><td>29</td></tr>
 <tr><td>11</td><td>Iowa Central</td><td>Fort Dodge, IA</td><td>6-6</td><td>38</td></tr>
 <tr><td>12</td><td>Copiah-Lincoln</td><td>Wesson, MS</td><td>5-4</td><td>26</td></tr>
 <tr><td>13</td><td>American River</td><td>Sacramento, CA</td><td>7-4</td><td>25</td></tr>
 <tr><td>14</td><td>Navarro</td><td>Corsicana, TX</td><td>9-2</td><td>9</td></tr>
 <tr><td>15</td><td>Saddleback</td><td>Mission Viejo, CA</td><td>8-3</td><td>21</td></tr>
 <tr><td>16</td><td>Butte</td><td>Oroville, CA</td><td>10-1</td><td>7</td></tr>
 <tr><td>17</td><td>San Diego Mesa</td><td>San Diego, CA</td><td>8-3</td><td>17</td></tr>
 <tr><td>18</td><td>Modesto</td><td>Modesto, CA</td><td>9-3</td><td>12</td></tr>
 <tr><td>19</td><td>East Central</td><td>Decatur, MS</td><td>8-3</td><td>10</td></tr>
 <tr><td>20</td><td>Butler</td><td>El Dorado, KS</td><td>7-4</td><td>27</td></tr>
 <tr><td>21</td><td>Golden West</td><td>Huntington Beach, CA</td><td>9-2</td><td>11</td></tr>
 <tr><td>22</td><td>Diablo Valley</td><td>Pleasant Hill, CA</td><td>6-5</td><td>43</td></tr>
 <tr><td>23</td><td>Georgia Military</td><td>Milledgeville, GA</td><td>8-2</td><td>8</td></tr>
 <tr><td>24</td><td>Canyons</td><td>Santa Clarita, CA</td><td>8-3</td><td>20</td></tr>
 <tr><td>25</td><td>Snow</td><td>Ephraim, UT</td><td>6-2</td><td>13</td></tr>
 <tr><td>26</td><td>Fresno City</td><td>Fresno, CA</td><td>8-3</td><td>17</td></tr>
 <tr><td>27</td><td>Ventura</td><td>Ventura, CA</td><td>8-3</td><td>19</td></tr>
 <tr><td>28</td><td>Lackawanna</td><td>Scranton, PA</td><td>6-3</td><td>15</td></tr>
 <tr><td>29</td><td>San Francisco</td><td>San Francisco, CA</td><td>3-7</td><td>NR</td></tr>
 <tr><td>30</td><td>Laney</td><td>Oakland, CA</td><td>4-7</td><td>NR</td></tr>
 </tbody>
</table>
</div>

🏈 HutchCC opens season No. 1 in JCGridiron Dirty 30 rankings

The Sky Ryders Drum and Bugle Corps is inviting the community to get a sneak peek at their 2025 DCI SoundSport production with a special, free-to-the-public dress rehearsal performance.

The event will take place Monday, July 7, at Gowans Stadium on the Hutchinson Community College campus. Gates open at 7:00 p.m. and everyone is welcome to come and enjoy an evening of music and pageantry under the stars.

<a href="https://eaglepost.netlify.app/dashboard/hutch/posts/f2a28180-6fc9-402f-8d59-f0c350e49384">LINK:&nbsp; Sky Ryders in year two of rebuild</a>

Organizers encourage attendees to bring their favorite beverage—no outside food is allowed—and make a night out of seeing the corps perform their brand-new show before they hit the road for the summer competition season.

This is a unique chance to see the hard work and talent of the Sky Ryders up close, as they fine-tune their 2025 program for audiences across the country.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720005977685.jpeg" alt="A historical picture of the Hutchinson Sky Ryders drumline-Provided by Dale Antoine" />
 <figcaption>A historical picture of the Hutchinson Sky Ryders drumline-Provided by Dale Antoine</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostThe Sky Ryders Drum and Bugle Corps is inviting the community to get a sneak peek at their 2025 DCI SoundSport production with a special, free-to-the-public dress rehearsal performance.The event will take place Monday, July 7, at Gowans Stadium on the Hutchinson Community College campus. Gates open at 7:00 p.m. and everyone is welcome to come and enjoy an evening of music and pageantry under the stars.<a href="https://eaglepost.netlify.app/dashboard/hutch/posts/f2a28180-6fc9-402f-8d59-f0c350e49384">LINK:&nbsp; Sky Ryders in year two of rebuild</a>Organizers encourage attendees to bring their favorite beverage—no outside food is allowed—and make a night out of seeing the corps perform their brand-new show before they hit the road for the summer competition season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751596289569.png" alt="<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2acc9d92-78da-4c60-83da-1571fe58774e">Click here to listen to the complete BW Morning Show with Dale Antoine&nbsp;</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2acc9d92-78da-4c60-83da-1571fe58774e">Click here to listen to the complete BW Morning Show with Dale Antoine&nbsp;</a></figcaption>
 </figure>This is a unique chance to see the hard work and talent of the Sky Ryders up close, as they fine-tune their 2025 program for audiences across the country.

Sky Ryders to host free dress rehearsal performance at Gowans Stadium on Monday

Richard Wiley Woody, 76, passed away Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at his home in Inman, KS surrounded by his family. Richard was born on November 26, 1948, in Overton, TX, the son of Bertus and Dorothy (Procter) Woody.

In 1967, Richard graduated from Sterling High School. Three days after graduating high school, Richard served in the U.S. Army in 1967-1971 in the special forces. Richard served 2 tours in the Vietnam War where he received 2 Purple Hearts, Bronze Star and the Army Commendation Medal. After receiving an honorable discharge from the army, he enrolled in Hutchinson Community College and graduated with his Associate of Applied Arts degree, majoring in business management. He worked for the US Postal Service for over 40 years as a delivery supervisor and a postmaster in Hutchinson and Sterling. On March 7, 1973, Richard married Wanda J. Wedel in Great Bend, KS.

Richard was a very special person, but very private. He loved to garden, and he gave most of the produce away and there wasn’t an animal that he didn’t love and take care of. He was a member of the American Legion Post 68, in Hutchinson and VFW in Sterling.

He was preceded death by his parents; and a brother, Ed Woody.

Richard is survived by his wife of 52 years, Wanda Woody; a son, Charles E. Woody; a sister, Linda Woody, and four grandchildren, Andrah (Udara) deAlwis, Kaitlyn (Joseph) Fraas, Matthew Woody and Addison Skinner.

Cremation has taken place. There are no services planned at this time. Memorials may be given to Hutchinson Humane Society and can be sent in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67502.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600286408072.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Richard Wiley Woody, 76, passed away Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at his home in Inman, KS surrounded by his family. Richard was born on November 26, 1948, in Overton, TX, the son of Bertus and Dorothy (Procter) Woody.In 1967, Richard graduated from Sterling High School. Three days after graduating high school, Richard served in the U.S. Army in 1967-1971 in the special forces. Richard served 2 tours in the Vietnam War where he received 2 Purple Hearts, Bronze Star and the Army Commendation Medal. After receiving an honorable discharge from the army, he enrolled in Hutchinson Community College and graduated with his Associate of Applied Arts degree, majoring in business management. He worked for the US Postal Service for over 40 years as a delivery supervisor and a postmaster in Hutchinson and Sterling. On March 7, 1973, Richard married Wanda J. Wedel in Great Bend, KS.Richard was a very special person, but very private. He loved to garden, and he gave most of the produce away and there wasn’t an animal that he didn’t love and take care of. He was a member of the American Legion Post 68, in Hutchinson and VFW in Sterling.He was preceded death by his parents; and a brother, Ed Woody.Richard is survived by his wife of 52 years, Wanda Woody; a son, Charles E. Woody; a sister, Linda Woody, and four grandchildren, Andrah (Udara) deAlwis, Kaitlyn (Joseph) Fraas, Matthew Woody and Addison Skinner.Cremation has taken place. There are no services planned at this time. Memorials may be given to Hutchinson Humane Society and can be sent in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67502.&nbsp;

Richard Wiley Woody |1948-2025|

After just one month on the job, Graham Klemme, the new Executive Director of StartUp Hutch, is already laying out ambitious plans to expand the local entrepreneurial ecosystem in Reno County and beyond.

In a recent interview on BW Radio, Klemme shared his excitement about moving to Hutchinson and how the community’s warm welcome has set the tone for what he hopes will be a new era of collaboration and growth.

“Everyone’s been incredibly welcoming and supportive,” Klemme said. “This is the kind of work I love to do, and to have a community where everyone’s aligned, working together to make things happen — it’s a real blessing.”

Originally from Iowa City, Iowa, Klemme’s path to Hutchinson has taken him coast to coast. With a background that spans grassroots political organizing, tech policy at companies like Airbnb and Fiverr, and a stint running a national accelerator program, he brings a diverse set of skills and connections to the role.

At StartUp Hutch, Klemme oversees the organization’s day-to-day operations and works closely with the board of directors and one full-time staff member. Together, they help local businesses and entrepreneurs access resources — including gap financing loans up to $50,000 through partnerships with Network Kansas — and programs designed to help new ventures launch and grow.

But Klemme is eager to do more than maintain the status quo. His vision includes building stronger ties with Hutchinson Community College to engage students and faculty, and exploring ways to reach new groups who may not see themselves as entrepreneurs yet — such as artists and creatives.

“We’d like to partner with the art center to help artists learn business skills,” Klemme explained. “There are so many people who are inherently entrepreneurial and just need a little support to turn ideas into sustainable businesses.”

One major focus is reviving and expanding the youth entrepreneurship program. Klemme wants to see 20 to 50 teams participate in the annual Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, hosted in partnership with local schools and the state program.

“If we want to think about where Reno County is 50 years from now, we need to make sure this next generation is prepared to start and scale businesses that will have an economic impact,” he said.

Klemme is also taking StartUp Hutch’s mission on the road — literally. He plans to visit surrounding communities like Pretty Prairie, Buhler, and Nickerson, setting up “pop-up entrepreneurship labs” at local events to connect with residents and offer resources.

Collaboration with the broader region is key too. Klemme will speak at Wichita’s 1 Million Cups event later this month to help put Hutchinson on the map and strengthen partnerships with organizations like the South Central Kansas Economic Development District and Nexus.

Looking ahead, Klemme wants to bring new resources to StartUp Hutch, including micro-grants to help entrepreneurs test ideas and grow their businesses. He’s also working to diversify the organization’s funding base and deepen its role in the Reno County Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Partnership, a coalition focused on aligning local economic development efforts.

His message to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: come see what StartUp Hutch can do for you.

“We like to be involved as early as possible,” Klemme said. “Whether you’re a small business with two employees or a startup with dreams of scaling big, we’re here to help — from the first idea all the way through to an exit strategy.”

For more information, visit <a href="https://www.startuphutch.com">StartUp Hutch’s website</a> or drop by their office in the Bob and Lou Peel Allied Health Center at 1 East 9th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599831307342.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;After just one month on the job, Graham Klemme, the new Executive Director of StartUp Hutch, is already laying out ambitious plans to expand the local entrepreneurial ecosystem in Reno County and beyond.In a recent interview on BW Radio, Klemme shared his excitement about moving to Hutchinson and how the community’s warm welcome has set the tone for what he hopes will be a new era of collaboration and growth.“Everyone’s been incredibly welcoming and supportive,” Klemme said. “This is the kind of work I love to do, and to have a community where everyone’s aligned, working together to make things happen — it’s a real blessing.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747769794823.jpeg" alt="Graham Klemme - photo courtesy Start Up Hutch" />
 <figcaption>Graham Klemme - photo courtesy Start Up Hutch</figcaption>
 </figure>Originally from Iowa City, Iowa, Klemme’s path to Hutchinson has taken him coast to coast. With a background that spans grassroots political organizing, tech policy at companies like Airbnb and Fiverr, and a stint running a national accelerator program, he brings a diverse set of skills and connections to the role.At StartUp Hutch, Klemme oversees the organization’s day-to-day operations and works closely with the board of directors and one full-time staff member. Together, they help local businesses and entrepreneurs access resources — including gap financing loans up to $50,000 through partnerships with Network Kansas — and programs designed to help new ventures launch and grow.But Klemme is eager to do more than maintain the status quo. His vision includes building stronger ties with Hutchinson Community College to engage students and faculty, and exploring ways to reach new groups who may not see themselves as entrepreneurs yet — such as artists and creatives.“We’d like to partner with the art center to help artists learn business skills,” Klemme explained. “There are so many people who are inherently entrepreneurial and just need a little support to turn ideas into sustainable businesses.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679061701023.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>One major focus is reviving and expanding the youth entrepreneurship program. Klemme wants to see 20 to 50 teams participate in the annual Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, hosted in partnership with local schools and the state program.“If we want to think about where Reno County is 50 years from now, we need to make sure this next generation is prepared to start and scale businesses that will have an economic impact,” he said.Klemme is also taking StartUp Hutch’s mission on the road — literally. He plans to visit surrounding communities like Pretty Prairie, Buhler, and Nickerson, setting up “pop-up entrepreneurship labs” at local events to connect with residents and offer resources.Collaboration with the broader region is key too. Klemme will speak at Wichita’s 1 Million Cups event later this month to help put Hutchinson on the map and strengthen partnerships with organizations like the South Central Kansas Economic Development District and Nexus.Looking ahead, Klemme wants to bring new resources to StartUp Hutch, including micro-grants to help entrepreneurs test ideas and grow their businesses. He’s also working to diversify the organization’s funding base and deepen its role in the Reno County Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Partnership, a coalition focused on aligning local economic development efforts.His message to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: come see what StartUp Hutch can do for you.“We like to be involved as early as possible,” Klemme said. “Whether you’re a small business with two employees or a startup with dreams of scaling big, we’re here to help — from the first idea all the way through to an exit strategy.”For more information, visit <a href="https://www.startuphutch.com">StartUp Hutch’s website</a> or drop by their office in the Bob and Lou Peel Allied Health Center at 1 East 9th Street.

New Executive Director brings fresh vision to StartUp Hutch 

Sherry Anita Piland, 73, of Hutchinson, died June 27, 2025, at her home. She was born October 4, 1951, in Falls City, NE, to Thomas A. and Irma M. (Goddard) Runyan.

Sherry attended Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College. She worked at Sara Lee Baking Co. for over 23 years until retirement. After retirement, Sherry enjoyed working at Stutzman’s Greenhouse, Smith’s Market, and Hutchinson High School. She also enjoyed doing crafts, crosswords puzzles, baking, cooking, gardening, and yardwork. Sherry was a dog lover and loved spending time with her family. She was a member of BCTGM Local 218.

On June 2, 2001, Sherry married Gerald C. Piland, in Las Vegas, NV. He died March 22, 2005.

She is survived by: her sons, Larry Miller Jr. (Julie Hinton) of Hayes, VA, Brian Miller (Joanne) of Hutchinson; granddaughters, Alaina Miller of Yorktown, VA, Alix Miller, Karsin Miller, both of Lawrence, KS; grandson, Korey Miller of Midlothian, VA; great-grandchildren, Sylas Meekins, Eleanor Miller, Alora Miller; Larry Jr. and Brian’s father, Larry Miller Sr., of Hutchinson; and beloved fur baby, Rosie.

Sherry was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Mike Runyan.

Per Sherry’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday thru Saturday, June 30-July 5, 2025, at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hutchinson Animal Shelter, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson,&nbsp; KS 67501.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751252768408.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Sherry Anita Piland, 73, of Hutchinson, died June 27, 2025, at her home. She was born October 4, 1951, in Falls City, NE, to Thomas A. and Irma M. (Goddard) Runyan.Sherry attended Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College. She worked at Sara Lee Baking Co. for over 23 years until retirement. After retirement, Sherry enjoyed working at Stutzman’s Greenhouse, Smith’s Market, and Hutchinson High School. She also enjoyed doing crafts, crosswords puzzles, baking, cooking, gardening, and yardwork. Sherry was a dog lover and loved spending time with her family. She was a member of BCTGM Local 218.On June 2, 2001, Sherry married Gerald C. Piland, in Las Vegas, NV. He died March 22, 2005.She is survived by: her sons, Larry Miller Jr. (Julie Hinton) of Hayes, VA, Brian Miller (Joanne) of Hutchinson; granddaughters, Alaina Miller of Yorktown, VA, Alix Miller, Karsin Miller, both of Lawrence, KS; grandson, Korey Miller of Midlothian, VA; great-grandchildren, Sylas Meekins, Eleanor Miller, Alora Miller; Larry Jr. and Brian’s father, Larry Miller Sr., of Hutchinson; and beloved fur baby, Rosie.Sherry was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Mike Runyan.Per Sherry’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned.Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday thru Saturday, June 30-July 5, 2025, at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hutchinson Animal Shelter, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson,&nbsp; KS 67501.&nbsp;

Sherry A. Piland |1951-2025|

Jeffrey D. Loane, 86, husband of the late Mary Elizabeth Campbell Loane, died June 23, 2025, in Hutchinson, Kansas. Born August 17,1938 in Boston, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late J. Bruce and Orphea Lucille Loane. &nbsp;

He was the former Co-Owner and manager of a Fishing Resort and was employed by various Corrections and Social Service Agencies in Kentucky and Kansas. He received his BA from Centre College, and MSW from Washington University of St. Louis. He was a veteran of the United States Navy.

Survivors include: two sons, Jeff Loane, Jr., and Martin Loane both of Burgin; and one daughter, Cynthia Sheldon of Hutchinson, Kansas. Several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He was preceded in death by: his parents; wife; daughter, Christi Elizabeth Phillips; and brother, Alan Loane.

Private Services will be held at the Burgin Memorial Gardens, Burgin Kentucky.

Elliott Mortuary is in charge of&nbsp; arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751031695308.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Jeffrey D. Loane, 86, husband of the late Mary Elizabeth Campbell Loane, died June 23, 2025, in Hutchinson, Kansas. Born August 17,1938 in Boston, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late J. Bruce and Orphea Lucille Loane. &nbsp;He was the former Co-Owner and manager of a Fishing Resort and was employed by various Corrections and Social Service Agencies in Kentucky and Kansas. He received his BA from Centre College, and MSW from Washington University of St. Louis. He was a veteran of the United States Navy.Survivors include: two sons, Jeff Loane, Jr., and Martin Loane both of Burgin; and one daughter, Cynthia Sheldon of Hutchinson, Kansas. Several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. &nbsp;&nbsp;He was preceded in death by: his parents; wife; daughter, Christi Elizabeth Phillips; and brother, Alan Loane.Private Services will be held at the Burgin Memorial Gardens, Burgin Kentucky.Elliott Mortuary is in charge of&nbsp; arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jeffrey D. Loane |1938-2025|

WICHITA, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College student-athletes swept the Junior College Athlete of the Year honors Thursday evening at the Greater Wichita Sports Banquet at INTRUST Bank Arena.

Hailey Jackson was named the Junior College Female Athlete of the Year. A first-team all-conference selection, Jackson helped lead the Blue Dragon women’s basketball team back to the NJCAA national tournament in March. She started all 34 games this past season, averaging a conference-best 18.3 points and 8.6 rebounds per game while shooting 46% from the field.

Waymond Jordan Jr. earned the Junior College Male Athlete of the Year award after leading the Blue Dragon football team to its second national championship in program history. Hutchinson defeated Iowa Western 28-23 on Dec. 18, 2024. Jordan Jr. was named the NJCAA National Offensive Player of the Year and the KJCCC Offensive Player of the Year after leading the nation in rushing yards and touchdowns. He finished the season with 1,614 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns in 12 games.

Jordan Jr. is currently in Los Angeles, California, and will play for the University of Southern California Trojans this fall.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749497041419.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Sports Commission" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Sports Commission</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON </a>Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College student-athletes swept the Junior College Athlete of the Year honors Thursday evening at the Greater Wichita Sports Banquet at INTRUST Bank Arena.Hailey Jackson was named the Junior College Female Athlete of the Year. A first-team all-conference selection, Jackson helped lead the Blue Dragon women’s basketball team back to the NJCAA national tournament in March. She started all 34 games this past season, averaging a conference-best 18.3 points and 8.6 rebounds per game while shooting 46% from the field.Waymond Jordan Jr. earned the Junior College Male Athlete of the Year award after leading the Blue Dragon football team to its second national championship in program history. Hutchinson defeated Iowa Western 28-23 on Dec. 18, 2024. Jordan Jr. was named the NJCAA National Offensive Player of the Year and the KJCCC Offensive Player of the Year after leading the nation in rushing yards and touchdowns. He finished the season with 1,614 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns in 12 games.Jordan Jr. is currently in Los Angeles, California, and will play for the University of Southern California Trojans this fall.&nbsp;<div><div class="subscriber-only">
Lynette Woodard High School Female Athlete of the Year
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Sophie Stockam, Maize South High School
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Barry Sanders High School Male Athlete of the Year
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Da'Saahn Brame, Derby High School
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Junior College Female Athlete of the Year
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Hailey Jackson, Hutchinson Community College
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Junior College Male Athlete of the Year
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Waymond Jordan Jr., Hutchinson Community College
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College Female Athlete of the Year
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Sara Duque Jimenez, Wichita State University
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College Male Athlete of the Year
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Xavier Bell, Wichita State University
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High School Girls Coach of the Year
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Greg Rauch, Bishop Carroll High School
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High School Boys Coach of the Year
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Derek Tuttle, Andover Central High School
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<div class="subscriber-only">
Gene Stephenson Coach of the Year
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Steve Gream, Cowley College
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Professional Athlete of the Year
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Zebby Matthews, Wichita Wind Surge
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Robert E. "Bob" Hanson Impact Award
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Clark Ensz, Wichita Marathon
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Achievement of Excellence Award
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Todd Carter, Butler Community College
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Special Recognition Award "Dynamic Duo"
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Derek and Diana Schutte, Halstead High School
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