Debra Kay Byers, 63, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, died May 25, 2023, at her home. She was born April, 9, 1960, to Donald and Ella (Thiel) Wedel, in Hutchinson, KS.

Deb attended Sterling High School and later graduated from Regis University with her Bachelor’s of Administration Management. She worked as a Product Manager. Deb was on the Dean’s Summer List of 2008 for Regis University and the Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges. She enjoyed doing crafts, including scrapbooking, shadow boxes, and card making.

On May 27, 1978, Deb married Donald Eugene Byers, in Hays, KS. They shared 45 years of marriage together.

She is survived by: husband, Don Byers, Colorado Springs, CO; daughter, Kirsta Byers (Jim McCluskie), Huntington Beach, California; son, Aaron Byers (Lisa), Rural Retreat, Virginia; grandson, Maliek Miller, Huntington Beach, California; bonus grandchildren; Kassandra McCluskie, Seattle, Washington, Lorielle McCluskie, Portland, Oregon, and Connor Audette, Tempe, Arizona; sisters, Donna Holland (Wendell), New Blaine, Arkansas, Denise Klima (Jim), Ellinwood, KS, Dian Long (Randy), Claflin, KS; sister-in-law, Deb Graber, Kingman, KS; brother-in-law, Mike Byers, Kingman, KS; mother-in-law, Naomi Shuchman, Kingman, KS; and many nieces and nephews.

Deb was preceded in death by her parents and nephew, Kyle Holland.

Funeral service will be 1 pm Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary. Friends may call from 9 am to 8 pm Friday with family present from 5 to 7 pm at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685634719719.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Debra Kay Byers, 63, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, died May 25, 2023, at her home. She was born April, 9, 1960, to Donald and Ella (Thiel) Wedel, in Hutchinson, KS.Deb attended Sterling High School and later graduated from Regis University with her Bachelor’s of Administration Management. She worked as a Product Manager. Deb was on the Dean’s Summer List of 2008 for Regis University and the Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges. She enjoyed doing crafts, including scrapbooking, shadow boxes, and card making.On May 27, 1978, Deb married Donald Eugene Byers, in Hays, KS. They shared 45 years of marriage together.She is survived by: husband, Don Byers, Colorado Springs, CO; daughter, Kirsta Byers (Jim McCluskie), Huntington Beach, California; son, Aaron Byers (Lisa), Rural Retreat, Virginia; grandson, Maliek Miller, Huntington Beach, California; bonus grandchildren; Kassandra McCluskie, Seattle, Washington, Lorielle McCluskie, Portland, Oregon, and Connor Audette, Tempe, Arizona; sisters, Donna Holland (Wendell), New Blaine, Arkansas, Denise Klima (Jim), Ellinwood, KS, Dian Long (Randy), Claflin, KS; sister-in-law, Deb Graber, Kingman, KS; brother-in-law, Mike Byers, Kingman, KS; mother-in-law, Naomi Shuchman, Kingman, KS; and many nieces and nephews.Deb was preceded in death by her parents and nephew, Kyle Holland.Funeral service will be 1 pm Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary. Friends may call from 9 am to 8 pm Friday with family present from 5 to 7 pm at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Debra Kay Byers |1960-2023|

Jack A. Hartle, 86, of Hutchinson, died May 28, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born April 9, 1937, in Hutchinson, to Kale Floyd and Martha Maxine (Stahl) Hartle.

Jack graduated from Lyons High School in 1955, and Kansas State University in 1971, Manhattan, with a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast News and Communications. He was the News Director for Eagle Radio, Great Bend.

Jack was the previous owner of Jack’s Café, in Lyons.

Jack was a huge college football fan, K-State, in particular. He enjoyed pheasant hunting and horseback riding when he was younger. Jack enjoyed his job as a News Director and was even in the Radio Broadcaster Hall of Fame. He also spent his time remodeling houses. Jack had an odd sense of humor, but he was very funny.

He was a loving a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.

On August 10, 1985, he married Alice Jeanette Johnston, in McPherson. They shared over 36 years of marriage before her passing on May 20, 2022.

Jack is survived by: sons, Alan (Valorie) Hartle, The Villages, FL, and Jerod (Melissa) Hartle, Hutchinson; step-daughters, Julie Kitston and Susan (Mark) Mattison, both of Hutchinson; adopted son, Christopher (Kara) Hartle, Hutchinson; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by: his wife; parents; son, Gregory Hartle; and step-daughter, Glenna Mitchell.

Cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will be held at Lyons Municipal Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to Disorders of Chromosome 16 Foundation, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685485024241.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jack A. Hartle, 86, of Hutchinson, died May 28, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born April 9, 1937, in Hutchinson, to Kale Floyd and Martha Maxine (Stahl) Hartle.Jack graduated from Lyons High School in 1955, and Kansas State University in 1971, Manhattan, with a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast News and Communications. He was the News Director for Eagle Radio, Great Bend.Jack was the previous owner of Jack’s Café, in Lyons.Jack was a huge college football fan, K-State, in particular. He enjoyed pheasant hunting and horseback riding when he was younger. Jack enjoyed his job as a News Director and was even in the Radio Broadcaster Hall of Fame. He also spent his time remodeling houses. Jack had an odd sense of humor, but he was very funny.He was a loving a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.On August 10, 1985, he married Alice Jeanette Johnston, in McPherson. They shared over 36 years of marriage before her passing on May 20, 2022.Jack is survived by: sons, Alan (Valorie) Hartle, The Villages, FL, and Jerod (Melissa) Hartle, Hutchinson; step-daughters, Julie Kitston and Susan (Mark) Mattison, both of Hutchinson; adopted son, Christopher (Kara) Hartle, Hutchinson; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.He was preceded in death by: his wife; parents; son, Gregory Hartle; and step-daughter, Glenna Mitchell.Cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will be held at Lyons Municipal Cemetery at a later date.Memorials are suggested to Disorders of Chromosome 16 Foundation, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Jack A. Hartle |1937-2023|

Lavonne Marie (Zimmerman) Farney, 91, died May 26, 2023, at Mennonite Friendship Communities, South Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;She was born January 17, 1932, the daughter of John A. and Edna Edith (Mosier) Zimmerman, in Reno County near Plevna, KS.

Lavonne graduated from Nickerson High School in 1949, and in 1953, she received a Bachelor’s degree from Sterling College. &nbsp;After graduation, she taught school in Dighton, KS, Flanagan, IL, Nickerson High School, and retired after teaching in the Hutchinson public schools.

She was a member of Sterling Evangelical Bible Church, Christian Educators Association, Retired Teachers of Reno County, and Questers.

On August 14, 1955, Lavonne married Bob Farney. &nbsp;They lived on a farm southwest of Sterling, KS, where they worked the land together and served in the community and church. &nbsp;They spent four years (1961-1965) at Salem Children’s Home near Flanagan, IL, with their children, Jack, Tyler, and Gayle, helping care for needy children before returning back to their farm.

Lavonne is survived by: &nbsp;her husband, Robert ‘Bob’ Farney of South Hutchinson, KS; sister, Greta Zimmerman of South Hutchinson, KS; children, Jack (Kay) Farney of Sterling, KS, and Gayle (Rick) Fehr of Omaha, NE; daughter-in-law, Keva Farney of North Newton, KS; grandchildren, Garet (Jaymelynn) Farney of Sterling, KS, Logan (Megan) Farney of Sterling, KS, Chelsi (Zack) Marshall of Eureka, KS, Wyatt (Laurel) Farney of Elbing, KS, Yance (Elaine) Farney of Kechi, KS, Rob (Abby) Fehr of Omaha, NE, and Nate (Laura) Fehr of Bentonville, AR; and 22 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by: &nbsp;her parents; brothers, Wendell Zimmerman and Don Zimmerman; sister, Ruth Eagleson; son, Tyler Farney; and granddaughter, Marshay.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Friday, June 2, 2023, at Sterling Evangelical Bible Church, 3017 N. Sterling Road, Sterling, KS, with Pastor Phil Carroll officiating. &nbsp;Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 1, 2023, with the family present from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Sterling Evangelical Bible Church or Mennonite Friendship Communities, in care of, Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685468711197.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lavonne Marie (Zimmerman) Farney, 91, died May 26, 2023, at Mennonite Friendship Communities, South Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;She was born January 17, 1932, the daughter of John A. and Edna Edith (Mosier) Zimmerman, in Reno County near Plevna, KS.Lavonne graduated from Nickerson High School in 1949, and in 1953, she received a Bachelor’s degree from Sterling College. &nbsp;After graduation, she taught school in Dighton, KS, Flanagan, IL, Nickerson High School, and retired after teaching in the Hutchinson public schools.She was a member of Sterling Evangelical Bible Church, Christian Educators Association, Retired Teachers of Reno County, and Questers.On August 14, 1955, Lavonne married Bob Farney. &nbsp;They lived on a farm southwest of Sterling, KS, where they worked the land together and served in the community and church. &nbsp;They spent four years (1961-1965) at Salem Children’s Home near Flanagan, IL, with their children, Jack, Tyler, and Gayle, helping care for needy children before returning back to their farm.Lavonne is survived by: &nbsp;her husband, Robert ‘Bob’ Farney of South Hutchinson, KS; sister, Greta Zimmerman of South Hutchinson, KS; children, Jack (Kay) Farney of Sterling, KS, and Gayle (Rick) Fehr of Omaha, NE; daughter-in-law, Keva Farney of North Newton, KS; grandchildren, Garet (Jaymelynn) Farney of Sterling, KS, Logan (Megan) Farney of Sterling, KS, Chelsi (Zack) Marshall of Eureka, KS, Wyatt (Laurel) Farney of Elbing, KS, Yance (Elaine) Farney of Kechi, KS, Rob (Abby) Fehr of Omaha, NE, and Nate (Laura) Fehr of Bentonville, AR; and 22 great-grandchildren.She was preceded in death by: &nbsp;her parents; brothers, Wendell Zimmerman and Don Zimmerman; sister, Ruth Eagleson; son, Tyler Farney; and granddaughter, Marshay.Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Friday, June 2, 2023, at Sterling Evangelical Bible Church, 3017 N. Sterling Road, Sterling, KS, with Pastor Phil Carroll officiating. &nbsp;Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 1, 2023, with the family present from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Sterling Evangelical Bible Church or Mennonite Friendship Communities, in care of, Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Lavonne Marie (Zimmerman) Farney |1932-2023|

Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;- Kansas State head men's golf coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/coaches/grant-robbins/1886">Grant Robbins</a>&nbsp;announced today that the program has signed community-college transfer Alex Lindstrom to a National Letter of Intent to play for the Wildcats beginning with the 2023-24 season.

Lindstrom, who hails from Halmstad, Sweden, is transferring to K-State after completing a successful one-year stint at Hutchinson Community College. "We feel like we have made a great addition with Alex," Robbins said. "We saw him play earlier this spring and were really impressed with his ballstriking and his calm and confident demeanor on the course. He came over to the U.S. last fall and quickly established himself as one of the best players in the country at the junior college level. He is passionate about the game and is an extremely hard worker. We are really looking forward to getting him here and working with him this fall." Lindstrom won the 2023 NJCAA Division I Phil Mickelson Outstanding Freshman Award and was a First Team PING All-American after collecting five top-10 finishes, including victories in consecutive KJCCC events that culminated with a conference championship. Lindstrom finished the year ranked No. 7 in the NJCAA and was the highest-ranked freshman as he also earned a spot on the NJCAA All-Freshman team. Lindstrom is part of a four-man signing class for the Wildcats as he joins another transfer in JP Roller (Texas Tech) along with incoming freshmen Bryant Pohill (Edmond, Oklahoma) and Harry Bent (Gullane, Scotland).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685466454568.jpeg" alt="Alex Lindstrom chips the ball at the NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championship at Sand Creek Station in Newton. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Alex Lindstrom chips the ball at the NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championship at Sand Creek Station in Newton. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;- Kansas State head men's golf coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/coaches/grant-robbins/1886">Grant Robbins</a>&nbsp;announced today that the program has signed community-college transfer Alex Lindstrom to a National Letter of Intent to play for the Wildcats beginning with the 2023-24 season. Lindstrom, who hails from Halmstad, Sweden, is transferring to K-State after completing a successful one-year stint at Hutchinson Community College. "We feel like we have made a great addition with Alex," Robbins said. "We saw him play earlier this spring and were really impressed with his ballstriking and his calm and confident demeanor on the course. He came over to the U.S. last fall and quickly established himself as one of the best players in the country at the junior college level. He is passionate about the game and is an extremely hard worker. We are really looking forward to getting him here and working with him this fall." Lindstrom won the 2023 NJCAA Division I Phil Mickelson Outstanding Freshman Award and was a First Team PING All-American after collecting five top-10 finishes, including victories in consecutive KJCCC events that culminated with a conference championship. Lindstrom finished the year ranked No. 7 in the NJCAA and was the highest-ranked freshman as he also earned a spot on the NJCAA All-Freshman team. Lindstrom is part of a four-man signing class for the Wildcats as he joins another transfer in JP Roller (Texas Tech) along with incoming freshmen Bryant Pohill (Edmond, Oklahoma) and Harry Bent (Gullane, Scotland).&nbsp;&nbsp;

⛳ HutchCC golfer signs to play at K-State

Sammie E. Mosier, 83, Hutchinson, died May 25, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born October 15, 1939, in Sterling, to Samuel O. and Selma M. (Engbrecht) Mosier.

Sammie was a 1957 graduate of Nickerson High School and 1961 graduate of Sterling College. He taught 6th grade at Nickerson Elementary School for 32 years. After retirement, he was a groundskeeper at The Highlands for several years and a Funeral Assistant at Elliott Mortuary. He attended Union Valley Bible Church where he was active in the music program.

On August 30, 1960, he married Dorothy A. Taylor in Sterling. She survives. Other survivors include: daughter, Elizabeth “Beth” Mosier; brothers, Dwain (Kathryn), Peoria, IL, Rod, Roger (Colleen); and sister-in-law, Carol, all of Hutchinson; brother-in-law, Paul (Pat) Taylor, Lanai City, HI; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; brother, Marlen; and sisters, Roberta Birkey and Lurlene Wagler.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 2, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary Chapel with Chaplain Lowell Entz presiding. Burial will follow in the Sterling Community Cemetery, Sterling. Friends may call Wednesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the family present Thursday, June 1, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Union Valley Bible Church or Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main St., Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685442611653.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sammie E. Mosier, 83, Hutchinson, died May 25, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born October 15, 1939, in Sterling, to Samuel O. and Selma M. (Engbrecht) Mosier.Sammie was a 1957 graduate of Nickerson High School and 1961 graduate of Sterling College. He taught 6th grade at Nickerson Elementary School for 32 years. After retirement, he was a groundskeeper at The Highlands for several years and a Funeral Assistant at Elliott Mortuary. He attended Union Valley Bible Church where he was active in the music program.On August 30, 1960, he married Dorothy A. Taylor in Sterling. She survives. Other survivors include: daughter, Elizabeth “Beth” Mosier; brothers, Dwain (Kathryn), Peoria, IL, Rod, Roger (Colleen); and sister-in-law, Carol, all of Hutchinson; brother-in-law, Paul (Pat) Taylor, Lanai City, HI; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.He was preceded in death by: his parents; brother, Marlen; and sisters, Roberta Birkey and Lurlene Wagler.Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 2, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary Chapel with Chaplain Lowell Entz presiding. Burial will follow in the Sterling Community Cemetery, Sterling. Friends may call Wednesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the family present Thursday, June 1, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Union Valley Bible Church or Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main St., Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Sammie E. Mosier |1939-2023|

Jeffrey S. Arnold, age 66, passed away peacefully, his wife Julie and daughter Melissa by his side on Friday May 26, 2023, at Hospice House in Hutchinson, Kansas. He was born January 27, 1957, in Neenah Wisconsin, son of the late Oscar H. Norton and Betty (Jones) Hoffman. Jeff was adopted May 10, 1957 by the late Laurence Lester and Pearl Loretta (Martin) Arnold of New Lisbon, Wisconsin. Barbara Sharp served as church secretary and Jeff’s Honorary Mom.&nbsp;

Jeff married Julie (Petty) Arnold December 24, 2003, they were happily married for 19 1/2 years and the mainstay, of their lives was the faith they shared in Jesus Christ.

&nbsp;Jeff attended the University of Wisconsin University-Madison studying to be a surgeon, He decided to take a year off to learn more about the Bible at University of Northwestern-St. Paul. That is when he was called to follow Jesus Christ. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Preaching Ministry from Central Christian College of the Bible, Masters Degree in Old Testament and Language Arts at Lincoln Christian College and Seminary, Lincoln, IL. Jeff was set apart to the ministry of the Gospel of Christ, Ordination at Elmo, Missouri on September 25, 1991. He preached at Elmo Christian Church in Elmo, Missouri, Community Christian Church, Scott City, KS, Laredo Christian Church (Student Ministry), Laredo, MO, Bushnell Christian Church, Bushnell, IL, and South Hutchinson Christian Church, South Hutchinson KS. He taught Hebrew at Manhattan Christian College and was a Chaplain at Good Samaritan in Hutchinson, KS.&nbsp;

Jeff loved his friends at Life Recovery Coffee Corner 5th and Adams, playing dominos with Good Samaritan men’s group, working puzzles, collecting coins, found great joy spending time with his grandkids and great grandkids, and above all, enjoyed studying and teaching the Word of God and he did that with numerous Bible Studies throughout the week.&nbsp;

Survivors include his wife, Julie; daughter Melissa (Derek) Brau, son Nate (Amber) Arnold, step-son Michael (Courtney) McEachern, and step-daughter Michele Gonzalez; grandchildren Jaxson, Jordynn, Brooke, and Ella Kough; Carol, Aliza, and Gideon Arnold; Maverick McEachern; and Gilbert Andrew, Kyla, and Desirea Larralde; and great-grandchildren Kingston and Bentlee Larralde; and sister Gayle Holte (Jim).

He was preceded in death by his parents, and maternal and paternal grandparents.

Memorial service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Solid Rock Bible Church (formerly South Hutchinson Christian Church), 111 E. 1st Avenue, South Hutchinson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice House, Cancer Council of Reno County, or Central Christian College of the Bible, Moberly, MO, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685442446134.jpeg" alt="Jeffrey Arnold" />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey Arnold</figcaption>
 </figure>Jeffrey S. Arnold, age 66, passed away peacefully, his wife Julie and daughter Melissa by his side on Friday May 26, 2023, at Hospice House in Hutchinson, Kansas. He was born January 27, 1957, in Neenah Wisconsin, son of the late Oscar H. Norton and Betty (Jones) Hoffman. Jeff was adopted May 10, 1957 by the late Laurence Lester and Pearl Loretta (Martin) Arnold of New Lisbon, Wisconsin. Barbara Sharp served as church secretary and Jeff’s Honorary Mom.&nbsp;Jeff married Julie (Petty) Arnold December 24, 2003, they were happily married for 19 1/2 years and the mainstay, of their lives was the faith they shared in Jesus Christ.&nbsp;Jeff attended the University of Wisconsin University-Madison studying to be a surgeon, He decided to take a year off to learn more about the Bible at University of Northwestern-St. Paul. That is when he was called to follow Jesus Christ. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Preaching Ministry from Central Christian College of the Bible, Masters Degree in Old Testament and Language Arts at Lincoln Christian College and Seminary, Lincoln, IL. Jeff was set apart to the ministry of the Gospel of Christ, Ordination at Elmo, Missouri on September 25, 1991. He preached at Elmo Christian Church in Elmo, Missouri, Community Christian Church, Scott City, KS, Laredo Christian Church (Student Ministry), Laredo, MO, Bushnell Christian Church, Bushnell, IL, and South Hutchinson Christian Church, South Hutchinson KS. He taught Hebrew at Manhattan Christian College and was a Chaplain at Good Samaritan in Hutchinson, KS.&nbsp;Jeff loved his friends at Life Recovery Coffee Corner 5th and Adams, playing dominos with Good Samaritan men’s group, working puzzles, collecting coins, found great joy spending time with his grandkids and great grandkids, and above all, enjoyed studying and teaching the Word of God and he did that with numerous Bible Studies throughout the week.&nbsp;Survivors include his wife, Julie; daughter Melissa (Derek) Brau, son Nate (Amber) Arnold, step-son Michael (Courtney) McEachern, and step-daughter Michele Gonzalez; grandchildren Jaxson, Jordynn, Brooke, and Ella Kough; Carol, Aliza, and Gideon Arnold; Maverick McEachern; and Gilbert Andrew, Kyla, and Desirea Larralde; and great-grandchildren Kingston and Bentlee Larralde; and sister Gayle Holte (Jim).He was preceded in death by his parents, and maternal and paternal grandparents.Memorial service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Solid Rock Bible Church (formerly South Hutchinson Christian Church), 111 E. 1st Avenue, South Hutchinson.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice House, Cancer Council of Reno County, or Central Christian College of the Bible, Moberly, MO, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.&nbsp;

Jeffrey S. Arnold |1957-2023|

Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports Information

Jafet Molinares has been hired to become the Hutchinson Community College cross country program's new head coach.

Molinares takes the reigns of the Blue Dragon cross country program from Justin Riggs, who resigned after the NJCAA National Track and Field Championships last week. Riggs had been in charge of the program since 2015.

Molinares is the sixth head coach in Blue Dragon men's track and field history and the fifth in Hutchinson women's history. He will also be a Blue Dragon track and field assistant coach.

"I am excited to welcome Jafet Molinares as the new head men's and women's cross country coach at Hutchinson Community College," Blue Dragon Athletic Director Josh Gooch said. "The successful programs he has been a part of have prepared him to take Blue Dragon Cross Country to new heights."

Molinares takes over a Blue Dragon women's program that is the reigning Region VI champion and finished fourth at the NJCAA Championships last November. The Blue Dragon women have several runners returning for 2023.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to represent a very established program," Molinares said. "I'm excited to work with the group of girls returning. I think the girls are very hungry, so I'm excited to start working with them.

"I'm also looking forward to re-establishing where the men's team was just a few years ago. Coach Riggs left this program in really good shape over the last 10 years and I want to carry this team in the future to achieve many more great things."

Molinares, 28, comes to Hutchinson after three seasons at Fort Scott Community College – in 2020 as an assistant and 2021 and 2022 as the head cross country coach. Between cross country and track and field, Molinares guided 34 total All-Americans. The 2023 Greyhound men's track team won the Region VI Indoor team championship.

He was an assistant coach for one season at Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge, Iowa. He was on staff for Iowa Central's men's indoor national championship team.

Molinares started his coaching career as a graduate assistant for cross country and track and field at Fort Hays State University.

A 2013 graduate of Felix Varela High School in Miami, Molinares ran collegiately at Iowa Central for two seasons and for two seasons at Fort Hays State. He graduated from Iowa Central in 2015 and earned his bachelor and master's from Fort Hays State in 2019.

"I'm grateful to Josh Gooch for the opportunity to coach here," Molinares said. "We share the same vision of what we want for this cross country program. His vision drew me to this position.

"I'm excited to get to work with Coach (Robert) Spies and the rest of the coaching staff as well."

<a>Facebook</a><a>Twitter</a><a>Email</a><a href="http://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/mxc/2022-23/releases/20230526n7j0m8?dec=printer-decorator" target="_blank">Print</a><a>Addthis</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685130657414.jpeg" alt="Jafet Molinares" />
 <figcaption>Jafet Molinares</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports InformationJafet Molinares has been hired to become the Hutchinson Community College cross country program's new head coach.Molinares takes the reigns of the Blue Dragon cross country program from Justin Riggs, who resigned after the NJCAA National Track and Field Championships last week. Riggs had been in charge of the program since 2015.Molinares is the sixth head coach in Blue Dragon men's track and field history and the fifth in Hutchinson women's history. He will also be a Blue Dragon track and field assistant coach."I am excited to welcome Jafet Molinares as the new head men's and women's cross country coach at Hutchinson Community College," Blue Dragon Athletic Director Josh Gooch said. "The successful programs he has been a part of have prepared him to take Blue Dragon Cross Country to new heights."Molinares takes over a Blue Dragon women's program that is the reigning Region VI champion and finished fourth at the NJCAA Championships last November. The Blue Dragon women have several runners returning for 2023."I'm grateful for the opportunity to represent a very established program," Molinares said. "I'm excited to work with the group of girls returning. I think the girls are very hungry, so I'm excited to start working with them."I'm also looking forward to re-establishing where the men's team was just a few years ago. Coach Riggs left this program in really good shape over the last 10 years and I want to carry this team in the future to achieve many more great things."Molinares, 28, comes to Hutchinson after three seasons at Fort Scott Community College – in 2020 as an assistant and 2021 and 2022 as the head cross country coach. Between cross country and track and field, Molinares guided 34 total All-Americans. The 2023 Greyhound men's track team won the Region VI Indoor team championship.He was an assistant coach for one season at Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge, Iowa. He was on staff for Iowa Central's men's indoor national championship team.Molinares started his coaching career as a graduate assistant for cross country and track and field at Fort Hays State University.A 2013 graduate of Felix Varela High School in Miami, Molinares ran collegiately at Iowa Central for two seasons and for two seasons at Fort Hays State. He graduated from Iowa Central in 2015 and earned his bachelor and master's from Fort Hays State in 2019."I'm grateful to Josh Gooch for the opportunity to coach here," Molinares said. "We share the same vision of what we want for this cross country program. His vision drew me to this position."I'm excited to get to work with Coach (Robert) Spies and the rest of the coaching staff as well."<a>Facebook</a><a>Twitter</a><a>Email</a><a href="http://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/mxc/2022-23/releases/20230526n7j0m8?dec=printer-decorator" target="_blank">Print</a><a>Addthis</a>

👟 HutchCC hires Jafet Molinares as cross country coach

David Maurice Cole, 26, passed away May 24, 2023, at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita. He was born October 19, 1996, in Hutchinson, the son of Alan Floyd and Shelly Kay Wolf Cole. He was a graduate of Buhler High School and had attended Hutchinson Community College.

David had a love for music, especially singing, at which he excelled. He loved basketball, especially the LA Lakers. He was a cornhole champion, enjoyed playing frisbee golf and spending time with his friends. He was a total mama’s boy and had a smile that was super contagious.

David was baptized at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, Hutchinson.

He is survived by his parents, Alan and Shelly, Buhler; a brother, Jonny Cole, Hutchinson; maternal grandparents, Billie and Christine Wolf, Medora; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Maurice and Bonnie Cole and his aunt, Christine McGahan.

Cremation is planned. Family will receive friends Monday, May 29, 2023, from 5PM-7PM at Inman Funeral Home. Parish rosary will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, Hutchinson, followed by funeral mass at 10:30 AM. The service will be live streamed on the Inman Funeral Home Facebook page. Memorial contributions are suggested to the David Cole Memorial Fund and may be taken to any First National Bank location or given to Inman Funeral Home. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit: <a href="http://www.inmanfh.com">www.inmanfh.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685126923008.jpeg" alt="David Cole" />
 <figcaption>David Cole</figcaption>
 </figure>David Maurice Cole, 26, passed away May 24, 2023, at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita. He was born October 19, 1996, in Hutchinson, the son of Alan Floyd and Shelly Kay Wolf Cole. He was a graduate of Buhler High School and had attended Hutchinson Community College.David had a love for music, especially singing, at which he excelled. He loved basketball, especially the LA Lakers. He was a cornhole champion, enjoyed playing frisbee golf and spending time with his friends. He was a total mama’s boy and had a smile that was super contagious.David was baptized at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, Hutchinson.He is survived by his parents, Alan and Shelly, Buhler; a brother, Jonny Cole, Hutchinson; maternal grandparents, Billie and Christine Wolf, Medora; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Maurice and Bonnie Cole and his aunt, Christine McGahan.Cremation is planned. Family will receive friends Monday, May 29, 2023, from 5PM-7PM at Inman Funeral Home. Parish rosary will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, Hutchinson, followed by funeral mass at 10:30 AM. The service will be live streamed on the Inman Funeral Home Facebook page. Memorial contributions are suggested to the David Cole Memorial Fund and may be taken to any First National Bank location or given to Inman Funeral Home. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit: <a href="http://www.inmanfh.com">www.inmanfh.com</a>.

David Maurice Cole |1996-2023|

MIAMI (AP) — Florida Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-ron-desantis-eda0e666c92e071645c6f43add3fbf59">Ron DeSantis</a>&nbsp;launched his 2024 presidential campaign on Wednesday with a Twitter announcement plagued by technical glitches, stepping into a crowded Republican primary contest that will test his strength against former President Donald Trump and criticism that he's not ready for the national stage.

The 44-year-old Republican, an outspoken cultural conservative, initially announced his decision in a video posted on social media, but planned to discuss it further in a first-of-its-kind conversation with Twitter CEO Elon Musk on Twitter Spaces. But the audio stream crashed repeatedly, making it virtually impossible for most users to hear the high-profile announcement in real time.

“We need the courage to lead and the strength to win,” DeSantis said in a minute-long video posted on social media before the conversation with Musk. “I’m Ron DeSantis, and I’m running for president to lead our great American comeback.”

Despite the rocky start, DeSantis' announcement marks a new chapter in his extraordinary rise from little-known congressman to two-term governor to a leading figure in the nation’s bitter fights over race, gender, abortion and other divisive issues.

DeSantis is considered to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-ron-desantis-donald-trump-c8a3a7e58d35061f8662ead819861005">Trump’s strongest Republican rival</a>&nbsp;even as the governor faces questions about his far-right policies, his campaign-trail personality and his lack of relationships across the Republican ecosystem. Still, he has generated significant interest among GOP primary voters by casting himself as a younger and more electable version of the 76-year-old former president.

The ultimate Republican nominee is expected to face Democratic President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;on the general election ballot in November 2024.

DeSantis joins a field that also includes former U.N. Ambassador&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nikki-haley-running-for-president-f28052019e8ac3846cd125b3d9614d4f">Nikki Haley</a>, Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tim-scott-2024-presidential-race-4a73e00db2295afbc4b07d1c6bb64811">Tim Scott</a>&nbsp;of South Carolina, former Arkansas Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/asa-hutchinson-president-2024-election-3a55855b1914d6e61338d1c8576a817f">Asa Hutchinson</a>&nbsp;and biotech entrepreneur&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-and-politics-united-states-government-2022-midterm-elections-ohio-e1c1cbe47763bd979b6b47557aee043d">Vivek Ramaswamy</a>. Former Vice President Mike Pence is also considered a likely presidential candidate but has not yet announced a bid.

DeSantis tried to discus his presidential candidacy for the first time in a conversation on Twitter Space with Musk, one of the world's richest men who is increasingly considered a conservative cult hero. The meeting was moderated by Republican donor David Sacks, a tech entrepreneur who is close to Musk.

The event started off with technical glitches the Twitter owner said were due to “straining” servers because so many people were trying to listen to the audio-only event.

Musk a day earlier dubbed the event a historic first for Twitter, saying it will be “the first time something like this is happening on social media.” The event was scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. EDT, but 20 minutes passed with users getting kicked off, hearing microphone feedback and other technical problems.

"This is a disaster. Not surprising,” tweeted senior Trump adviser Chris LaCivita.

Meanwhile, DeSantis and Trump have much in common.

DeSantis, who likely would not have become the Florida governor without Trump’s endorsement, has adopted the former president’s fiery personality, his populist policies and even some of his rhetoric and mannerisms.

Yet DeSantis has one thing his rival does not: a credible claim that he may be more electable than Trump, who faces multiple legal threats, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-criminal-case-manhattan-cc2dbf565678eeaf8246a96b0fd1f461">criminal charges</a>&nbsp;in New York, and who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-donald-trump-00c770068d8b82f165a9f4871eee983b">presided over Republican losses</a>&nbsp;in three consecutive national elections.

DeSantis, just six months ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-governor-race-2022-midterm-elections-4b2fe3a05668ed67119511838339110e">won his reelection</a>&nbsp;in Florida by a stunning 19 percentage points — even as Republicans in many other states struggled. He also scored several major policy victories during the Republican-controlled Legislature’s spring session.

Aware of DeSantis’ draw, Trump has been almost singularly focused on undermining his political appeal for months. Trump and his team believe that DeSantis may be Trump’s only legitimate threat for the nomination.

Hours before the announcement, Trump argued in a social media post that “Ron DeSanctus” cannot win the general election or the GOP primary because of his previous votes in Congress on Social Security and Medicare.

“He desperately needs a personality transplant and, to the best of my knowledge, they are not medically available yet," Trump added. "A disloyal person!”

Trump allies dispatched a truck outside DeSantis' planned donor meeting running an attack ad describing him as “a swamp creature." The Democratic National Committee sent another truck warning of DeSantis’ “extreme MAGA agenda.”

The kitchen-sink attacks and nicknames won’t be DeSantis’ only hurdle.

He is a political heavyweight in Florida and a regular on Fox News, but allies acknowledge that most primary voters in other states don’t know him well.

A Florida native with family roots in the Midwest, DeSantis studied at Yale University, where he played baseball. He would go on to Harvard Law School and become a Navy judge advocate general officer, a position that took him to Iraq and the Guantanamo Bay detention camp.

He ran for Congress in 2012 and won an Orlando-area district, becoming a founding member of the far-right Freedom Caucus on Capitol Hill.

Despite his lengthy resume, friends and foes alike note that DeSantis struggles to display the campaign-trail charisma and quick-on-your-feet thinking that often defines successful candidates at the national level. He has gone to great lengths to avoid unscripted public appearances and media scrutiny while governor, which is difficult, if not impossible, as a presidential contender.

In an example of his level of media avoidance, his official Twitter account for governor posted a photo shortly after the FEC filing — a bill signing surrounded by dozens of bikers for legislation to help reduce motorcycle accidents in Florida. The media was not notified of the event ahead of time.

Late Wednesday, DeSantis’ office announced that he signed a broad election law bill that contains a provision&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/desantis-president-resign-run-florida-elections-be012bb10da7b89b433bfbce4e5cfa1a">allowing him to run for president without resigning</a>&nbsp;his post as governor, exempting himself from a state rule known as “resign to run.”

Would-be supporters also worry that DeSantis has refused to invest in relationships with party leaders or fellow elected officials, raising questions about his ability to build the coalition he would ultimately need to beat Trump. By contrast, Trump has scooped up an army of endorsements in key states, including Florida.

Beyond the primary, DeSantis’ greatest longer-term challenge may rest with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/desantis-laws-2024-president-election-abortion-florida-668ae3101e3d7d7f61dd9925b419ee6e">far-right policies he enacted</a>&nbsp;as governor as an unapologetic leader in what he calls his "war on woke.”

The Florida governor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-immigration-ron-desantis-charlie-baker-4fe96d293de4b189299a372b85c95add">sent dozens of immigrants</a>&nbsp;from Texas to Martha’s Vineyard off the Massachusetts coast to draw attention to the influx of Latin American immigrants trying to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. He signed and then expanded the Parental Rights in Education bill — known by critics as the “Don’t Say Gay” law, which bans instruction or classroom discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in Florida public schools for all grades.

More recently, he signed a law banning abortions at six weeks, which is before most women realize they’re pregnant. And he removed an elected prosecutor who vowed not to charge people under Florida’s new abortion restrictions or doctors who provide gender-affirming care.

DeSantis also signed a law this year allowing Florida residents to carry concealed firearms without a permit. He pushed new measures that critics warn would weaken press freedoms. He also took control of a liberal arts college that he believed was indoctrinating students with leftist ideology.

The governor’s highest-profile political fight has come against the Florida entertainment giant Disney, which publicly opposed his “Don’t Say Gay” law. In retaliation, DeSantis seized control of Disney World’s governing body and installed loyalists who are threatening to take over park planning, among other extraordinary measures.

DeSantis has threatened to build a state prison adjacent to park property.

The dispute has drawn condemnation from business leaders and his Republican rivals, who said the moves are at odds with small-government conservatism.

DeSantis delayed his campaign announcement until Florida’s legislative session was over. But for much of the year, he has been courting primary voters in key states and using an allied super political action committee to build a large political organization that is essentially a campaign in waiting and already claims at least $30 million in the bank.

Super PAC adviser David Polyansky said Trump has made “significant strategic mistakes” on policy — especially abortion — that DeSantis' team is prepared to exploit.

And More than any of his opponents, perhaps even Trump, DeSantis is positioned to hit the ground running thanks to the super PAC’s monthslong efforts to install campaign infrastructure across Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina, which will host the first four contests on the GOP’s primary calendar early next year.

In fact, the super PAC is already building out DeSantis' political operation in states that host primaries in March, signaling a very long road ahead to the Republican presidential nomination.

MIAMI (AP) — Florida Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-ron-desantis-eda0e666c92e071645c6f43add3fbf59">Ron DeSantis</a>&nbsp;entered the 2024 presidential race on Wednesday, stepping into a crowded Republican primary contest that will test both his national appeal as an outspoken&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/desantis-laws-2024-president-election-abortion-florida-668ae3101e3d7d7f61dd9925b419ee6e">cultural conservative</a>&nbsp;and the GOP’s willingness to move on from former President Donald Trump.

The 44-year-old Republican revealed his decision in a Federal Election Commission filing before an online conversation with Twitter CEO Elon Musk.

It marks a new chapter in his extraordinary rise from little-known congressman to two-term governor to a leading figure in the nation’s bitter fights over race, gender, abortion and other divisive issues.

DeSantis’ audio-only announcement was to be streamed on Twitter Spaces beginning at 6 p.m. EDT, followed by appearances on conservative programs, including Fox News and Mark Levin's radio show. He also was holding a donor event at the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Miami on Wednesday.

The Republican nominee is expected to face Democratic President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;on the general election ballot in November 2024.

The governor’s highest-profile political fight has come against the Florida-based entertainment giant Disney, which publicly opposed his “Don’t Say Gay” law. In retaliation, DeSantis seized control of Disney World’s governing body and installed loyalists who are threatening to take over park planning, among other extraordinary measures.

DeSantis has threatened to build a state prison on park property.

More than any of his opponents, except perhaps Trump, DeSantis is positioned to hit the ground running thanks to the super PAC’s monthslong efforts to install campaign infrastructure across Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina, which will host the first four contests on the GOP’s primary calendar early next year.

DeSantis gave no hint as to his plans during a meeting of the state clemency board Wednesday morning in Tallahassee, where he granted several pardons to former prisoners charged mostly with drug-related crimes decades ago.

“You are what the country needs,” one man said after getting his pardon.

A smiling DeSantis chuckled and thanked him.

🎥 DeSantis launches presidential campaign despite glitches on Twitter 

Lisa Lynn Valentine, 58, died May 22, 2023, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital St. Francis, in Wichita. She was born February 20, 1965, in Hutchinson, to Tom and Judy (Hale) Reed.

Lisa graduated from Buhler High School in 1983, she then attended Hutchinson Community College and graduated from Wichita State University. She was a licensed social worker, serving in elder care. Lisa was passionate about advocating for the elderly and cared very deeply about all the people she served. She was also passionate about her family. Lisa loved spending time with all of her family, especially her new grandson.

On July 25, 1987, she married Ronald Dean Valentine, in Haven. They shared 35 years of marriage.

Lisa is survived by: husband, Ron Valentine, Hutchinson; mother, Judy Reed, Hutchinson; son, Jeff Valentine, Haven; daughter, Katy Fawcett (Austin), Wichita; grandson, Waco Fawcett, Wichita; brother, Jay Reed (Chere), Hutchinson; mother-in-law, Mary Valentine, Hutchinson; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Tom Reed.

Funeral service will be 10 am Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary. Burial will follow in Laurel Cemetery, Haven. Friends may call from 1 to 8 pm on Sunday and with family present from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday at Elliott Mortuary. The service can also be viewed online by visiting Lisa's obituary on the Elliott Mortuary website.

Memorials are suggested to Delos V. Smith Senior Center, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684946316430.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lisa Lynn Valentine, 58, died May 22, 2023, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital St. Francis, in Wichita. She was born February 20, 1965, in Hutchinson, to Tom and Judy (Hale) Reed.Lisa graduated from Buhler High School in 1983, she then attended Hutchinson Community College and graduated from Wichita State University. She was a licensed social worker, serving in elder care. Lisa was passionate about advocating for the elderly and cared very deeply about all the people she served. She was also passionate about her family. Lisa loved spending time with all of her family, especially her new grandson.On July 25, 1987, she married Ronald Dean Valentine, in Haven. They shared 35 years of marriage.Lisa is survived by: husband, Ron Valentine, Hutchinson; mother, Judy Reed, Hutchinson; son, Jeff Valentine, Haven; daughter, Katy Fawcett (Austin), Wichita; grandson, Waco Fawcett, Wichita; brother, Jay Reed (Chere), Hutchinson; mother-in-law, Mary Valentine, Hutchinson; and many nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her father, Tom Reed.Funeral service will be 10 am Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary. Burial will follow in Laurel Cemetery, Haven. Friends may call from 1 to 8 pm on Sunday and with family present from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday at Elliott Mortuary. The service can also be viewed online by visiting Lisa's obituary on the Elliott Mortuary website.Memorials are suggested to Delos V. Smith Senior Center, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Lisa Lynn Valentine |1965-2023|

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/files/2023_All-KJCCC_West_Baseball.pdf">CLICK FOR 2023 ALL-JAYHAWK WEST BASEBALL TEAM</a>

Hutchinson Community College baseball sophomore outfielder&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/edmunson_will_rdcc">Will Edmunson</a>&nbsp;led five Blue Dragon players on the 2023 All-Jayhawk West team and was named the league's Most Valuable Player on Tuesday.

The sophomore from Luther, Oklahoma, and recent University of Arkansas commit, led the Jayhawk Conference in hitting and was eighth in the nation with a .454 batting average.

Edmunson was the only first-team selection for the Blue Dragons following a 30-28 season in 2023.

Freshman catcher/designated hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/gunderson_cody_4bzo">Cody Gunderson</a>&nbsp;was a second-team selection. First baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/henderson_ryan_sab3">Ryan Henderson</a>, outfielder A.J. Mustow and pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/giesbrecht_ethan_uono">Ethan Giesbrecht</a>&nbsp;were named all-Jayhawk West honorable mention this season.

Edmunson is the first Blue Dragon to be named Jayhawk West MVP since Zane Schmidt in 2019. He is the fifth Blue Dragon MVP in head coach Ryan Schmidt's tenure.

WILL EDMUNSON – MVP/1ST TEAM Edmunson became the first Blue Dragon to win the Jayhawk Conference batting championship since Michael Helman in 2017.

The Blue Dragon outfielder hit .454 with 93 total hits, 17 doubles, four triples and 51 RBIs, hitting primarily out of the No. 2 slot in the batting order. Edmunson scored 78 runs, walked 23 times, was hit with pitches 16 times and had a team-high 15 stolen bases this season.

Edmunson started the season with a 16-game hitting streak, which tied Brock Schaffer and Ben McLaughlin for the fifth-longest hitting streak in program history. Edmunson also put together hitting streaks of 12 and 10 games this season.

Edmunson had 33 multi-hit games, including five three-hit games, a four-hit game against Pratt on March 19 and a five-hit game against Southeast Nebraska on February 11.

In addition to Edmunson leading the KJCCC in batting, he also led the league and was sixth in the NJCAA in total hits. He was second in the KJCCC runs scored and on-base percentage (.532) and was sixth in the Jayhawk in slugging percentage (.737). Edmunson had a team-high 23-game streak of reaching base this season.

Edmunson's .454 batting average and 93 total hits both ranked fourth in Blue Dragon single-season history. His 78 runs scored tied Logan Sartori and Shane Cooper for second on the single-season list. He 151 total baes were seventh most in team single-season history.

Edmunson's .424 career batting average ranks No. 4 in Blue Dagon career statistical history.

He became the 51st Blue Dragon in program history to reach 100 career hits, closing his career with 106.

CODY GUNDERSON – 2ND TEAM Despite missing 13 games because of injury, the freshman from St. Malo, Manitoba, Canada had a strong season behind the plate and as a designated hitter.

Gunderson hit .367 this season, going 55 for 150 in 45 games.

Gunderson had 14 doubles and 10 home runs while scoring 44 runs and driving in 38 runs.

Gunderson went a season-high 4 for 5 with a double and home run on April 27 against eventual Jayhawk West champion Barton. He had a five-RBI game against Pratt on March 19 and drove in four runs against Seward County on March 26.

Defensively, Gunderson had a .962 fielding percentage and threw out 8 of 27 base stealers this season.

RYAN HENDERSON – HONORABLE MENTION A sophomore first baseman from Buhler, Henderson hit .271 in 57 games played, going 54 for 199 at the plate. For a second-straight season, Henderson reached double figures with 10 home runs and hit drove in 51 runs while scoring 41 runs.

Henderson had two-home run, four-RBI game against Pratt on March 17. During that Pratt doubleheader, Henderson was 6 for 7 with three home runs and eight RBIs. He had career highs with a 4 for 5 game with six RBIs, including a double and home run against Garden City on April 20.

Henderson steadily became one of the top defensive first baseman in the KJCCC this season with a .989 fielding percentage. He had four errors in 354 total defensive chances this season.

With 20 career home runs, Henderson is only the 16th Blue Dragon with 20 career homers. He also became the 50th Blue Dragon in program history to reach 100 hits, closing his career with 110 hits.

A.J. MUSTOW – HONORABLE MENTION A freshman outfielder from Sydney, Australia, Mustow was the Blue Dragons' third-leading hitter with a .331 batting average this season.

Mustow was 49 for 148 with 12 doubles, three triples and six home runs. Mustow drove in 44 runs and scored 34 in 47 games played this season.

Mustow had 15 multi-hit games and 16 multi-RBI games this season. He had a season's best four hits against Garden City on April 20 and four RBIs against the Sterling College JV on April 17. Mustow had two two-home run games, doing so against the Sterling JV and Barton on April 29.

Mustow led the Blue Dragons with six outfield assists this season from left field.

ETHAN GIESBRECHT – HONORABLE MENTION A freshman right-handed pitcher from Altona, Manitoba, Canada, Giesbrecht settled into a weekend rotation spot early in the season.

Giesbrecht posted a 4-2 record with a 5.43 earned-run average in 10 starts and 13 overall appearances this season. In league games, Giesbrecht was 4-1 with a 5.58 ERA. He had three complete games and a pair of shutouts against Garden City on April 22 and Colby on May 6.

Over 53 innings pitched, the Blue Dragon right-hander struck out 40 and walked only 14. He allowed 64 hits and 32 earned runs with opponents hitting .299 against him.

Giesbrecht struck out a season-high seven against Cloud County on April 8 in a no-decision. He had six strikeouts in his five-inning complete game against Colby on May 6. Giesbrecht allowed just two hits in game May 6 game, a season-low for hit allowed.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684928360664.jpeg" alt="Will Edmunson becomes the first Blue Dragon baseball player since 2019 to win Jayhawk West Most Valuable Player honors. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information) " />
 <figcaption>Will Edmunson becomes the first Blue Dragon baseball player since 2019 to win Jayhawk West Most Valuable Player honors. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information) </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/files/2023_All-KJCCC_West_Baseball.pdf">CLICK FOR 2023 ALL-JAYHAWK WEST BASEBALL TEAM</a>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationHutchinson Community College baseball sophomore outfielder&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/edmunson_will_rdcc">Will Edmunson</a>&nbsp;led five Blue Dragon players on the 2023 All-Jayhawk West team and was named the league's Most Valuable Player on Tuesday.The sophomore from Luther, Oklahoma, and recent University of Arkansas commit, led the Jayhawk Conference in hitting and was eighth in the nation with a .454 batting average.Edmunson was the only first-team selection for the Blue Dragons following a 30-28 season in 2023.Freshman catcher/designated hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/gunderson_cody_4bzo">Cody Gunderson</a>&nbsp;was a second-team selection. First baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/henderson_ryan_sab3">Ryan Henderson</a>, outfielder A.J. Mustow and pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/giesbrecht_ethan_uono">Ethan Giesbrecht</a>&nbsp;were named all-Jayhawk West honorable mention this season.Edmunson is the first Blue Dragon to be named Jayhawk West MVP since Zane Schmidt in 2019. He is the fifth Blue Dragon MVP in head coach Ryan Schmidt's tenure.WILL EDMUNSON – MVP/1ST TEAM Edmunson became the first Blue Dragon to win the Jayhawk Conference batting championship since Michael Helman in 2017.The Blue Dragon outfielder hit .454 with 93 total hits, 17 doubles, four triples and 51 RBIs, hitting primarily out of the No. 2 slot in the batting order. Edmunson scored 78 runs, walked 23 times, was hit with pitches 16 times and had a team-high 15 stolen bases this season.Edmunson started the season with a 16-game hitting streak, which tied Brock Schaffer and Ben McLaughlin for the fifth-longest hitting streak in program history. Edmunson also put together hitting streaks of 12 and 10 games this season.Edmunson had 33 multi-hit games, including five three-hit games, a four-hit game against Pratt on March 19 and a five-hit game against Southeast Nebraska on February 11.In addition to Edmunson leading the KJCCC in batting, he also led the league and was sixth in the NJCAA in total hits. He was second in the KJCCC runs scored and on-base percentage (.532) and was sixth in the Jayhawk in slugging percentage (.737). Edmunson had a team-high 23-game streak of reaching base this season.Edmunson's .454 batting average and 93 total hits both ranked fourth in Blue Dragon single-season history. His 78 runs scored tied Logan Sartori and Shane Cooper for second on the single-season list. He 151 total baes were seventh most in team single-season history.Edmunson's .424 career batting average ranks No. 4 in Blue Dagon career statistical history.He became the 51st Blue Dragon in program history to reach 100 career hits, closing his career with 106.CODY GUNDERSON – 2ND TEAM Despite missing 13 games because of injury, the freshman from St. Malo, Manitoba, Canada had a strong season behind the plate and as a designated hitter.Gunderson hit .367 this season, going 55 for 150 in 45 games.Gunderson had 14 doubles and 10 home runs while scoring 44 runs and driving in 38 runs.Gunderson went a season-high 4 for 5 with a double and home run on April 27 against eventual Jayhawk West champion Barton. He had a five-RBI game against Pratt on March 19 and drove in four runs against Seward County on March 26.Defensively, Gunderson had a .962 fielding percentage and threw out 8 of 27 base stealers this season.RYAN HENDERSON – HONORABLE MENTION A sophomore first baseman from Buhler, Henderson hit .271 in 57 games played, going 54 for 199 at the plate. For a second-straight season, Henderson reached double figures with 10 home runs and hit drove in 51 runs while scoring 41 runs.Henderson had two-home run, four-RBI game against Pratt on March 17. During that Pratt doubleheader, Henderson was 6 for 7 with three home runs and eight RBIs. He had career highs with a 4 for 5 game with six RBIs, including a double and home run against Garden City on April 20.Henderson steadily became one of the top defensive first baseman in the KJCCC this season with a .989 fielding percentage. He had four errors in 354 total defensive chances this season.With 20 career home runs, Henderson is only the 16th Blue Dragon with 20 career homers. He also became the 50th Blue Dragon in program history to reach 100 hits, closing his career with 110 hits.A.J. MUSTOW – HONORABLE MENTION A freshman outfielder from Sydney, Australia, Mustow was the Blue Dragons' third-leading hitter with a .331 batting average this season.Mustow was 49 for 148 with 12 doubles, three triples and six home runs. Mustow drove in 44 runs and scored 34 in 47 games played this season.Mustow had 15 multi-hit games and 16 multi-RBI games this season. He had a season's best four hits against Garden City on April 20 and four RBIs against the Sterling College JV on April 17. Mustow had two two-home run games, doing so against the Sterling JV and Barton on April 29.Mustow led the Blue Dragons with six outfield assists this season from left field.ETHAN GIESBRECHT – HONORABLE MENTION A freshman right-handed pitcher from Altona, Manitoba, Canada, Giesbrecht settled into a weekend rotation spot early in the season.Giesbrecht posted a 4-2 record with a 5.43 earned-run average in 10 starts and 13 overall appearances this season. In league games, Giesbrecht was 4-1 with a 5.58 ERA. He had three complete games and a pair of shutouts against Garden City on April 22 and Colby on May 6.Over 53 innings pitched, the Blue Dragon right-hander struck out 40 and walked only 14. He allowed 64 hits and 32 earned runs with opponents hitting .299 against him.Giesbrecht struck out a season-high seven against Cloud County on April 8 in a no-decision. He had six strikeouts in his five-inning complete game against Colby on May 6. Giesbrecht allowed just two hits in game May 6 game, a season-low for hit allowed.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

 ⚾ Blue Dragons' Edmunson named Jayhawk West MVP

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Kansas State head football coach Chris Klieman, associate head men's basketball coach Ulric Maligi, and other student-athletes made a stop at AJ's at The Alley on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The stop was one of 16 among the annual Catbacker Tour across the state of Kansas, highlighting accomplishments from the 2022-23 school year and previewing the upcoming season.

The event was emceed by the voice of the Wildcats, Wyatt Thompson, and also had appearances from Willie the Wildcat, and the K-State cheer team.

Head football coach Chris Klieman took the stage to a standing ovation after he led the Wildcats to the Big 12 title this past fall. K-State would come up short in the Sugar Bowl against No. 5 Alabama.&nbsp;

Klieman was asked by Thompson about winning the Big 12 title game over TCU, and what that felt like being apart of.

"Everybody keeps telling me that," Klieman said while laughing. "I didn't watch it, I lived it. I was never uptight, I was never nervous, I was just in the flow of the game."

Klieman also touched on watching his four former players get drafted in the NFL Draft this past month. Felix Anudike-Uzomah (31st overall, Chiefs), Julius Brents (44th overall, Colts), Josh Hayes (181st overall, Buccaneers), Deuce Vaughn (212th overall, Cowboys).

“To have all four guys
drafted by their ‘hometown’ teams was awesome,” Klieman said. “Think of it as a
mother, to get your sons to come home after all their journeys through college
and now they’re going to get to be pampered by their moms at home… what a
special feeling for those guys.”

Klieman was asked about hoisting the Big 12 championship trophy and what that meant to him.

"We talked about Gene Taylor and his faith in myself and this staff," Klieman said. "He took a chance on a guy from a small FCS school and believed in me and believed in my staff. For us to have that chance to raise that trophy, there probably isn't a better feeling. When nobody expects you to do that, it's what's happening on the field that's all that matters."

Although the Wildcats did have the four drafted and several other move on after graduating, Klieman is excited about the offense in particular coming to the field in the fall.

"Will Howard is one of the best quarterbacks in college football," Klieman said. "He's coming back, plus we return our top eight offensive linemen to protect him. We've got pretty good wide receivers, and then a guy that's probably forgotten a lot about is Will Sennett, a guy I think is the best tight end in college football."

Associate head men's basketball coach Ulric Maligi spoke on this past season and the trip to the Elite Eight. The same team had been picked dead last in the Big 12 preseason poll.

“When the predictions
came out, we laughed at it,” Maligi said. “We knew we had an NCAA tournament team.
The goal was to always have a parade in Manhattan, Kansas and win a national
championship. This team realized very quickly how good they really could be.”

The team was mostly formed from the transfer portal and came together rather quickly ahead of the season.

“I think all of this
journey really started with the recruiting,” Maligi said. “We are very
intentional about recruiting guys that have won before. We had eight guys from
this last team that won a state championship, and another five or six guys that
played in the NCAA tournament, and that wasn’t by accident.”

The goal for the men's basketball program is to improve and take that next step in the tournament this next season.

"We feel way better than we did this time last year," Maligi said of the 10 guys the Wildcats have on campus this spring. "We still want to get a couple more dudes. There are still a lot of moving parts, but we should be in a pretty good position come next season."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684871750854.jpeg" alt="Packed house at AJ's at The Alley in Hutchinson on Tuesday for the Catbacker Tour." />
 <figcaption>Packed house at AJ's at The Alley in Hutchinson on Tuesday for the Catbacker Tour.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Kansas State head football coach Chris Klieman, associate head men's basketball coach Ulric Maligi, and other student-athletes made a stop at AJ's at The Alley on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;The stop was one of 16 among the annual Catbacker Tour across the state of Kansas, highlighting accomplishments from the 2022-23 school year and previewing the upcoming season.The event was emceed by the voice of the Wildcats, Wyatt Thompson, and also had appearances from Willie the Wildcat, and the K-State cheer team.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684871817076.jpeg" alt="Voice of the Wildcats Wyatt Thompson (left) visits with head football coach Chris Klieman (right)." />
 <figcaption>Voice of the Wildcats Wyatt Thompson (left) visits with head football coach Chris Klieman (right).</figcaption>
 </figure>Head football coach Chris Klieman took the stage to a standing ovation after he led the Wildcats to the Big 12 title this past fall. K-State would come up short in the Sugar Bowl against No. 5 Alabama.&nbsp;Klieman was asked by Thompson about winning the Big 12 title game over TCU, and what that felt like being apart of."Everybody keeps telling me that," Klieman said while laughing. "I didn't watch it, I lived it. I was never uptight, I was never nervous, I was just in the flow of the game."Klieman also touched on watching his four former players get drafted in the NFL Draft this past month. Felix Anudike-Uzomah (31st overall, Chiefs), Julius Brents (44th overall, Colts), Josh Hayes (181st overall, Buccaneers), Deuce Vaughn (212th overall, Cowboys).“To have all four guys
drafted by their ‘hometown’ teams was awesome,” Klieman said. “Think of it as a
mother, to get your sons to come home after all their journeys through college
and now they’re going to get to be pampered by their moms at home… what a
special feeling for those guys.”Klieman was asked about hoisting the Big 12 championship trophy and what that meant to him."We talked about Gene Taylor and his faith in myself and this staff," Klieman said. "He took a chance on a guy from a small FCS school and believed in me and believed in my staff. For us to have that chance to raise that trophy, there probably isn't a better feeling. When nobody expects you to do that, it's what's happening on the field that's all that matters."Although the Wildcats did have the four drafted and several other move on after graduating, Klieman is excited about the offense in particular coming to the field in the fall."Will Howard is one of the best quarterbacks in college football," Klieman said. "He's coming back, plus we return our top eight offensive linemen to protect him. We've got pretty good wide receivers, and then a guy that's probably forgotten a lot about is Will Sennett, a guy I think is the best tight end in college football."Associate head men's basketball coach Ulric Maligi spoke on this past season and the trip to the Elite Eight. The same team had been picked dead last in the Big 12 preseason poll.“When the predictions
came out, we laughed at it,” Maligi said. “We knew we had an NCAA tournament team.
The goal was to always have a parade in Manhattan, Kansas and win a national
championship. This team realized very quickly how good they really could be.”The team was mostly formed from the transfer portal and came together rather quickly ahead of the season.“I think all of this
journey really started with the recruiting,” Maligi said. “We are very
intentional about recruiting guys that have won before. We had eight guys from
this last team that won a state championship, and another five or six guys that
played in the NCAA tournament, and that wasn’t by accident.”The goal for the men's basketball program is to improve and take that next step in the tournament this next season."We feel way better than we did this time last year," Maligi said of the 10 guys the Wildcats have on campus this spring. "We still want to get a couple more dudes. There are still a lot of moving parts, but we should be in a pretty good position come next season."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684871929709.jpeg" alt="The K-State athletic bus parked outside of AJ's at The Alley in Hutchinson." />
 <figcaption>The K-State athletic bus parked outside of AJ's at The Alley in Hutchinson.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Klieman highlights Catbacker Tour stop in Hutch on Tuesday

Mary Jane Mollett, 96, passed away peacefully May 14, 2023, at Hester Care Center, Hutchinson. &nbsp;She was born October 11, 1926, in St. Joseph, Missouri, to John R. and Kathryn (Keefer) Marts.

Mary Jane graduated from Hutchinson High School and attended Lindenwood College, St. Charles, Missouri, and Kansas State University. &nbsp;She was a homemaker and a member of First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson. &nbsp;

Mary Jane exemplified humble grace, kindness, and was a devoted listener. &nbsp; She had a way of making those around her feel better, even during the valleys of life. &nbsp;She loved her faith, family and friends. Throughout her years at Wesley Towers, Mary Jane enjoyed much valued friendships with residents and members of the staff which greatly enriched her life.&nbsp;

On December 28, 1946, she married Clarence M. Mollett, in Hutchinson. &nbsp;They shared 67 years of marriage prior to his death on September 29, 2013.

Mary Jane is survived by: &nbsp; Children: Michael Mollett, John Mollett (Kathy), Kathy Small (Bill), &nbsp;and Jane Whitlow (Bill); Grandchildren: Carolyn Humpherson (James), Patrick Mollett (Robert Frick), Ben Whitlow (Gresa Sylejmani), Sam Small, &nbsp;Jon Whitlow, and Louis Mollett; Great-grandchildren: Oscar and Finley Humpherson.&nbsp;

Memorials are suggested to Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County or First Presbyterian Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, Kansas 67501.

The family wishes to thank Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, Hester Care Center and the Wesley Towers Home Health staff for their wonderful care and support.

Mary Jane Mollett, 96, passed away peacefully May 14, 2023, at Hester Care Center, Hutchinson. &nbsp;She was born October 11, 1926, in St. Joseph, Missouri, to John R. and Kathryn (Keefer) Marts.Mary Jane graduated from Hutchinson High School and attended Lindenwood College, St. Charles, Missouri, and Kansas State University. &nbsp;She was a homemaker and a member of First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson. &nbsp;Mary Jane exemplified humble grace, kindness, and was a devoted listener. &nbsp; She had a way of making those around her feel better, even during the valleys of life. &nbsp;She loved her faith, family and friends. Throughout her years at Wesley Towers, Mary Jane enjoyed much valued friendships with residents and members of the staff which greatly enriched her life.&nbsp;On December 28, 1946, she married Clarence M. Mollett, in Hutchinson. &nbsp;They shared 67 years of marriage prior to his death on September 29, 2013.Mary Jane is survived by: &nbsp; Children: Michael Mollett, John Mollett (Kathy), Kathy Small (Bill), &nbsp;and Jane Whitlow (Bill); Grandchildren: Carolyn Humpherson (James), Patrick Mollett (Robert Frick), Ben Whitlow (Gresa Sylejmani), Sam Small, &nbsp;Jon Whitlow, and Louis Mollett; Great-grandchildren: Oscar and Finley Humpherson.&nbsp;A private family service is planned.Memorials are suggested to Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County or First Presbyterian Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, Kansas 67501.The family wishes to thank Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, Hester Care Center and the Wesley Towers Home Health staff for their wonderful care and support.