Via Hutchinson CC Sports Information

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/gunderson_cody_4bzo">Cody Gunderson</a>&nbsp;had a career-high four hits while the bullpen duo of&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wickersham_kaden_64wc">Kaden Wickersham</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/scott_reed_03bo">Reed Scott</a>&nbsp;slammed the door on a hard charging Barton offense as the Hutchinson Community College baseball team snapped a 14-game losing streak against nationally ranked competition on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field.

The No. 8-ranked Barton Cougars run-ruled the Blue Dragons in Game 1, 12-1 in five innings. Hutchinson then exploded for seven runs in the third inning to build an eight-run lead and had to hold on for a 9-7 victory in Game 2.

Games 3 and 4 of the Jayhawk West series with the first-place Cougars resumes on Saturday at 1 p.m. on Lawson-Biggs Field in Great Bend. The Blue Dragons are now 27-23 overall and 15-11 in the Jayhawk West. Hutchinson is now tied with Dodge City for fifth place in the Jayhawk West with six games to go in the season. Barton is now 41-8 and 20-6 in the league.

The Blue Dragons have defeated a nationally ranked opponent since 2018 when Hutchinson edged No. 13 Barton 4-3 at Hobart-Detter Field.

GAME 2 RECAP The Blue Dragons came out swinging against eight-game winner Owen Reynolds.

Hutchinson scored an unearned run in the second when&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/davis_jon_ucpo">Jon Davis</a>' two-out double drove in&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wesslund_cooper_zdq0">Cooper Wesslund</a>.

The Dragons then erupted for seven runs in the third inning. Gunderson started the inning with a two-run home run. Back-to-back RBI singles from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/bradford_blake_qa9v">Blake Bradford</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/henderson_ryan_sab3">Ryan Henderson</a>&nbsp;gave Hutchinson a 4-0 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/powell_christian_dv61">Christian Powell</a>&nbsp;singled in two runs and Collin Cymbalista's RBI ground out made it 8-0 Blue Dragons after three innings.

The Cougars then outscored the Blue Dragons 7-1 over the middle three innings.

Wickersham entered the game with one out in the sixth inning. He allowed a single that pulled Barton within 9-7, but got two strikeouts in the inning.

Wickersham pitched 2 2-3 innings of relief with six strikeouts and Scott came on to earn his second save of the season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/smith_justin_u248">Justin Smith</a>&nbsp;(1-1) earned the victory with five innings of work in his start. Smith retired the first nine batters of the game. He allowed five hits and four runs with three walks and seven strikeouts.

Gunderson led the Blue Dragons' 11-hit attack going 4 or 5 with a double and home run. He drove in two runs scored two runs. Henderson had a pair of RBI singles to go 2 for 4. A.J. Mustow had a double and scored a run.

GAME 1 RECAP The Blue Dragons looked to have Barton starter David Stuart on the ropes after three batters. Collin Cymbalista flew out the centerfield wall, Edmunson doubles off the rightfield wall and Gunderson ripped a single to left to drive in Edmunson.

After that, Stuart allowed just one hit over the next 4 2-3 innings and quickly cooled off the Dragons.

Barton led 4-1 after three innings and put the game out of reach with a seven-run fourth inning.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/ojeda_sam_8hjt">Sam Ojeda</a>&nbsp;(3-2) started and took the loss for the Dragons, working three innings. Derrick Johnson,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/neill_bradley_p7ny">Bradley Neill</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/toureau_cole_xtxg">Cole Toureau</a>&nbsp;worked out of the bullpen.

Barton out-hit the Blue Dragons 12-3 and hit two home runs in the game. Wesslund broke a Stuart run of 11 consecutive batters retired with a two-out single in the bottom of the fifth inning.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682681533302.jpeg" alt="Cody Gunderson (17) is greeted at home after hitting a home run in Hutchinson's Game 2 9-7 win over No. 8 Barton on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Cody Gunderson (17) is greeted at home after hitting a home run in Hutchinson's Game 2 9-7 win over No. 8 Barton on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Via Hutchinson CC Sports Information<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/gunderson_cody_4bzo">Cody Gunderson</a>&nbsp;had a career-high four hits while the bullpen duo of&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wickersham_kaden_64wc">Kaden Wickersham</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/scott_reed_03bo">Reed Scott</a>&nbsp;slammed the door on a hard charging Barton offense as the Hutchinson Community College baseball team snapped a 14-game losing streak against nationally ranked competition on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field.The No. 8-ranked Barton Cougars run-ruled the Blue Dragons in Game 1, 12-1 in five innings. Hutchinson then exploded for seven runs in the third inning to build an eight-run lead and had to hold on for a 9-7 victory in Game 2.Games 3 and 4 of the Jayhawk West series with the first-place Cougars resumes on Saturday at 1 p.m. on Lawson-Biggs Field in Great Bend. The Blue Dragons are now 27-23 overall and 15-11 in the Jayhawk West. Hutchinson is now tied with Dodge City for fifth place in the Jayhawk West with six games to go in the season. Barton is now 41-8 and 20-6 in the league.The Blue Dragons have defeated a nationally ranked opponent since 2018 when Hutchinson edged No. 13 Barton 4-3 at Hobart-Detter Field.GAME 2 RECAP The Blue Dragons came out swinging against eight-game winner Owen Reynolds.Hutchinson scored an unearned run in the second when&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/davis_jon_ucpo">Jon Davis</a>' two-out double drove in&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wesslund_cooper_zdq0">Cooper Wesslund</a>.The Dragons then erupted for seven runs in the third inning. Gunderson started the inning with a two-run home run. Back-to-back RBI singles from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/bradford_blake_qa9v">Blake Bradford</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/henderson_ryan_sab3">Ryan Henderson</a>&nbsp;gave Hutchinson a 4-0 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/powell_christian_dv61">Christian Powell</a>&nbsp;singled in two runs and Collin Cymbalista's RBI ground out made it 8-0 Blue Dragons after three innings.The Cougars then outscored the Blue Dragons 7-1 over the middle three innings.Wickersham entered the game with one out in the sixth inning. He allowed a single that pulled Barton within 9-7, but got two strikeouts in the inning.Wickersham pitched 2 2-3 innings of relief with six strikeouts and Scott came on to earn his second save of the season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/smith_justin_u248">Justin Smith</a>&nbsp;(1-1) earned the victory with five innings of work in his start. Smith retired the first nine batters of the game. He allowed five hits and four runs with three walks and seven strikeouts.Gunderson led the Blue Dragons' 11-hit attack going 4 or 5 with a double and home run. He drove in two runs scored two runs. Henderson had a pair of RBI singles to go 2 for 4. A.J. Mustow had a double and scored a run.GAME 1 RECAP The Blue Dragons looked to have Barton starter David Stuart on the ropes after three batters. Collin Cymbalista flew out the centerfield wall, Edmunson doubles off the rightfield wall and Gunderson ripped a single to left to drive in Edmunson.After that, Stuart allowed just one hit over the next 4 2-3 innings and quickly cooled off the Dragons.Barton led 4-1 after three innings and put the game out of reach with a seven-run fourth inning.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/ojeda_sam_8hjt">Sam Ojeda</a>&nbsp;(3-2) started and took the loss for the Dragons, working three innings. Derrick Johnson,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/neill_bradley_p7ny">Bradley Neill</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/toureau_cole_xtxg">Cole Toureau</a>&nbsp;worked out of the bullpen.Barton out-hit the Blue Dragons 12-3 and hit two home runs in the game. Wesslund broke a Stuart run of 11 consecutive batters retired with a two-out single in the bottom of the fifth inning.<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;

⚾ Blue Dragons earn key split with No. 7 Barton

Berta Lea “Bert” Newton, 91, died April 25, 2023, at Legend Senior Living, Hutchinson. She was born February 6, 1932, in Hutchinson, to Gilbert L. and Leora L. (Green) Dean.

Bert graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1950 and took classes at Hutchinson Community College, McPherson College, and Emporia State University. She was a librarian at Hutchinson Public Library for 25 years. Bert was a member of Carey Park Golf Association, Reno County Historical Society, Typographical Auxiliary, and First United Methodist Church. She was also an author and wrote, “Ghost Towns of Reno County.”

On July 28, 1951, Bert married Clyde E. Newton, in Hutchinson. He died August 6, 2005.

She is survived by: sons, Mark Newton (Becky) of Middlebury, CT, Randy Newton (Candie) of Hutchinson; daughter-in-law, Vici Newton of Maize; 12 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brothers, Carl Dean (Janet) of Denver, CO, Gary Dean (Terry) of Wichita; and many extended family members.

Bert was preceded in death by: her parents; sons, Richard and Robert; and sister, Mary Lou Fiorillo.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023, at Elliott Chapel. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Elliott Mortuary.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682587037838.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Berta Lea “Bert” Newton, 91, died April 25, 2023, at Legend Senior Living, Hutchinson. She was born February 6, 1932, in Hutchinson, to Gilbert L. and Leora L. (Green) Dean.Bert graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1950 and took classes at Hutchinson Community College, McPherson College, and Emporia State University. She was a librarian at Hutchinson Public Library for 25 years. Bert was a member of Carey Park Golf Association, Reno County Historical Society, Typographical Auxiliary, and First United Methodist Church. She was also an author and wrote, “Ghost Towns of Reno County.”On July 28, 1951, Bert married Clyde E. Newton, in Hutchinson. He died August 6, 2005.She is survived by: sons, Mark Newton (Becky) of Middlebury, CT, Randy Newton (Candie) of Hutchinson; daughter-in-law, Vici Newton of Maize; 12 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brothers, Carl Dean (Janet) of Denver, CO, Gary Dean (Terry) of Wichita; and many extended family members.Bert was preceded in death by: her parents; sons, Richard and Robert; and sister, Mary Lou Fiorillo.Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023, at Elliott Chapel. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Elliott Mortuary.Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Berta Lea “Bert” Newton |1932-2023|

Jerrine Faye Bonham, 76, of Oklahoma City, died April 25, 2023, in Edmond, Oklahoma. She was born December 27, 1946, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Lyle and Frankie (Corgill) Posvic.

Jerrine graduated from Ardmore High School in 1965 and attended Harding University for a year before getting married. She later earned her associates degree from Hutchinson Community College in 2004. Jerrine worked for many years for USD 308 as a para educator and was also a homemaker. She was a member of Eastwood Church of Christ, where she was very involved. Jerrine served as the cook for Silver Maple Camp for 31 years. She was a great cook and a master of crochet. Jerrine’s true joys were working with children and helping others.

On August 18, 1967, she married Larry Dwight Bonham, in Lawton, Oklahoma. They shared 33 years of marriage before he passed on December 12, 2000.

Jerrine is survived by daughter, Stacey Kaye Bonham, Edmond, Oklahoma; and son, Bradley Allen Bonham (Joanna) of Hutchinson, and numerous family and friends whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; husband, Larry; daughter, Michelle Faye; and two brother, Frank and Tim Posvic.

Funeral service will be 10 am Saturday, April 29, 2023, at Eastwood Church of Christ, Hutchinson. Burial will follow at 2 pm in Forest Park Cemetery, Anthony, Kansas. Friends may call from 9 am to 8 pm on Friday with family present from 6 to 8 pm at Elliott Mortuary.

Memorials are suggested to Silver Maple Camp, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main Street, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682530910298.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jerrine Faye Bonham, 76, of Oklahoma City, died April 25, 2023, in Edmond, Oklahoma. She was born December 27, 1946, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Lyle and Frankie (Corgill) Posvic.Jerrine graduated from Ardmore High School in 1965 and attended Harding University for a year before getting married. She later earned her associates degree from Hutchinson Community College in 2004. Jerrine worked for many years for USD 308 as a para educator and was also a homemaker. She was a member of Eastwood Church of Christ, where she was very involved. Jerrine served as the cook for Silver Maple Camp for 31 years. She was a great cook and a master of crochet. Jerrine’s true joys were working with children and helping others.On August 18, 1967, she married Larry Dwight Bonham, in Lawton, Oklahoma. They shared 33 years of marriage before he passed on December 12, 2000.Jerrine is survived by daughter, Stacey Kaye Bonham, Edmond, Oklahoma; and son, Bradley Allen Bonham (Joanna) of Hutchinson, and numerous family and friends whom she loved dearly.She was preceded in death by: her parents; husband, Larry; daughter, Michelle Faye; and two brother, Frank and Tim Posvic.Funeral service will be 10 am Saturday, April 29, 2023, at Eastwood Church of Christ, Hutchinson. Burial will follow at 2 pm in Forest Park Cemetery, Anthony, Kansas. Friends may call from 9 am to 8 pm on Friday with family present from 6 to 8 pm at Elliott Mortuary.Memorials are suggested to Silver Maple Camp, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main Street, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Jerrine Faye Bonham |1946-2023|

MANHATTAN — Each year Kansas Farm Bureau’s (KFB) Foundation for Agriculture awards scholarships to college students studying in fields that benefit agriculture and rural Kansas. Forty-three recipients were awarded $25,500 in scholarships for the 2023-24 school year. Over the past decade, the foundation has awarded more than $250,000 in scholarships. “We’re investing in students today to ensure they become tomorrow’s leaders,” says KFB President and Foundation Chair Joe Newland. Logan Elliott, Cherokee County, was awarded $1,000 for the Frank and Helen Bernasek Memorial Scholarship, a permanent, privately endowed scholarship fund. Shelby Spreier, Harvey County, was awarded $1,000 for the K-State Agricultural Communications and Journalism Scholarship. Morgan Barba, Ellis County, is the winner of the $500 Godfrey and Emma Bahr-Miller Memorial Scholarship, a permanent, privately endowed scholarship fund for students attending a college in Kansas and majoring in a subject related to agriculture. Caleb Stout, Chase County, was awarded $500 for the DeWitt Ahlerich Memorial Scholarship, a permanent, privately endowed scholarship fund. Allison Abeldt, Dickinson County, and Renae Kohles, Johnson County, each were awarded $500 from the Lester Crandall Memorial Scholarship, a permanent, privately endowed fund. Daniel Johnson, Linn County, was awarded a $500 scholarship to attend technical school from the Michael J. Berntsen Memorial Scholarship. Six students received scholarships to Kansas technical colleges. They are Cordell Brown, Logan County; Jason Colby, Sherman County; Rosston Eckroat, Ellis County; Jace Goodman, Morris County; Colton Pfannenstiel, Ellis County; and Cole Salmans, Hodgeman County. Four $1,000 KFB scholarships were awarded to juniors and seniors enrolled in Kansas State University’s College of Agriculture and majoring in a subject related to agriculture. They are Patrick Biggs, Shawnee County; Ryleigh Carr, Thomas County; Candace Fry, Ford County; and Elizabeth Sturgis, Cherokee County. Two $1,000 KFB scholarships were awarded to juniors and seniors enrolled at Fort Hays State University. Recipients are Kayler Getz, Gove County; and Kyle Sherwood, Scott County. &nbsp; Twenty-four recipients received $500 scholarships. These students are attending a Kansas college with a Kansas Farm Bureau Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter. Students must be a Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter member. Recipients include: Allen Community College Ethan Henry, Neosho County Leah Riedy, Dickinson County Barton Community College Kooper Maneth, Barton County Butler Community College Carissa Dalquest, Morris County Calley Stubbs, Wallace County Colby Community College Rylan Hays, Phillips County Desiree Littlechild, Trego County Keller Metzker, Thomas County Kirsten Miessler, Stafford County Jenna Milford, Johnson County Allie Seltman, Rush County Payton Walk, Greeley County Emily Wilms, Lane County Fort Hays State University Lauren Baggs, Sumner County Paul Cook, Butler County Hutchinson Community College Luke Wiens, Marion County Kansas State University Derek Freel, Ottawa County August Hulse, Ottawa County Hayden Lott, Ottawa County Erin Rose May, Decatur County Piper Schlatter, Reno County Grace Young, Miami County Pratt Community College Nicole Haase, Ellsworth County Karlie Heatherman, Pratt County

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682524443079.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Farm BureauMANHATTAN — Each year Kansas Farm Bureau’s (KFB) Foundation for Agriculture awards scholarships to college students studying in fields that benefit agriculture and rural Kansas. Forty-three recipients were awarded $25,500 in scholarships for the 2023-24 school year. Over the past decade, the foundation has awarded more than $250,000 in scholarships. “We’re investing in students today to ensure they become tomorrow’s leaders,” says KFB President and Foundation Chair Joe Newland. Logan Elliott, Cherokee County, was awarded $1,000 for the Frank and Helen Bernasek Memorial Scholarship, a permanent, privately endowed scholarship fund. Shelby Spreier, Harvey County, was awarded $1,000 for the K-State Agricultural Communications and Journalism Scholarship. Morgan Barba, Ellis County, is the winner of the $500 Godfrey and Emma Bahr-Miller Memorial Scholarship, a permanent, privately endowed scholarship fund for students attending a college in Kansas and majoring in a subject related to agriculture. Caleb Stout, Chase County, was awarded $500 for the DeWitt Ahlerich Memorial Scholarship, a permanent, privately endowed scholarship fund. Allison Abeldt, Dickinson County, and Renae Kohles, Johnson County, each were awarded $500 from the Lester Crandall Memorial Scholarship, a permanent, privately endowed fund. Daniel Johnson, Linn County, was awarded a $500 scholarship to attend technical school from the Michael J. Berntsen Memorial Scholarship. Six students received scholarships to Kansas technical colleges. They are Cordell Brown, Logan County; Jason Colby, Sherman County; Rosston Eckroat, Ellis County; Jace Goodman, Morris County; Colton Pfannenstiel, Ellis County; and Cole Salmans, Hodgeman County. Four $1,000 KFB scholarships were awarded to juniors and seniors enrolled in Kansas State University’s College of Agriculture and majoring in a subject related to agriculture. They are Patrick Biggs, Shawnee County; Ryleigh Carr, Thomas County; Candace Fry, Ford County; and Elizabeth Sturgis, Cherokee County. Two $1,000 KFB scholarships were awarded to juniors and seniors enrolled at Fort Hays State University. Recipients are Kayler Getz, Gove County; and Kyle Sherwood, Scott County. &nbsp; Twenty-four recipients received $500 scholarships. These students are attending a Kansas college with a Kansas Farm Bureau Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter. Students must be a Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter member. Recipients include: Allen Community College Ethan Henry, Neosho County Leah Riedy, Dickinson County Barton Community College Kooper Maneth, Barton County Butler Community College Carissa Dalquest, Morris County Calley Stubbs, Wallace County Colby Community College Rylan Hays, Phillips County Desiree Littlechild, Trego County Keller Metzker, Thomas County Kirsten Miessler, Stafford County Jenna Milford, Johnson County Allie Seltman, Rush County Payton Walk, Greeley County Emily Wilms, Lane County Fort Hays State University Lauren Baggs, Sumner County Paul Cook, Butler County Hutchinson Community College Luke Wiens, Marion County Kansas State University Derek Freel, Ottawa County August Hulse, Ottawa County Hayden Lott, Ottawa County Erin Rose May, Decatur County Piper Schlatter, Reno County Grace Young, Miami County Pratt Community College Nicole Haase, Ellsworth County Karlie Heatherman, Pratt County<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

KFB's Foundation for Agriculture awards $25,500 in scholarships

By JUDD WEIL&nbsp; Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Community College (HutchCC) will present their Spring Fling Concert, the final show of their season at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on Friday, April 28. &nbsp;

The HutchCC Wind Symphony directed by Eric Stambaugh, and the Hutchinson Community Chorale directed by Neal Allsup are set to take the stage with an amazing performance. &nbsp;

“It's new stuff since it's our last concert of the year,” Allsup said. “It might just be a little bit lighter in content, not the amount, but just in the music itself. But, it’s stuff that we’ve worked on since our last concert. &nbsp;

The concert will showcase a wide variety of performances from highly classical to maybe even madrigal.&nbsp;

“We're singing seven pieces on there and then we're combining with the band on one piece,” Allsup said. “It’s from a film and it’s a tribute to American fallen soldiers.” &nbsp;

The conjunction piece is called Hymn to the Fallen, and is taken from the movie, “Saving Private Ryan.” &nbsp;

Under the direction of Eric Stambaugh, another&nbsp;of the band’s pieces will bring an auxiliary percussion assortment resembling the sound of helicopters. &nbsp;

Around 30 students will be performing in the chorale. &nbsp;

For those graduating students moving on, Allsup said the program will miss them. &nbsp;

“We thank them for all the wonderful hours of care and&nbsp;working towards the level of artistry, that I think for community colleges in the state of Kansas, is way above average,” Allsup said. “I know that if their plans include moving on as a singing musician, that they've been prepared well to understand the kind of work that it takes to produce outstanding and interesting vibrant art in the choral and the vocal field.”&nbsp;

The Spring Fling Concert will start at 7 p.m., according to Allsup, it will run for up to an hour and a half. &nbsp;

The show will take place in the B.J. Warner Recital Hall at the Stringer Fine Arts Center located at 600 E. 11th Ave. in Hutchinson. &nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577741375097.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JUDD WEIL&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Community College (HutchCC) will present their Spring Fling Concert, the final show of their season at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on Friday, April 28. &nbsp;The HutchCC Wind Symphony directed by Eric Stambaugh, and the Hutchinson Community Chorale directed by Neal Allsup are set to take the stage with an amazing performance. &nbsp;“It's new stuff since it's our last concert of the year,” Allsup said. “It might just be a little bit lighter in content, not the amount, but just in the music itself. But, it’s stuff that we’ve worked on since our last concert. &nbsp;The concert will showcase a wide variety of performances from highly classical to maybe even madrigal.&nbsp;“We're singing seven pieces on there and then we're combining with the band on one piece,” Allsup said. “It’s from a film and it’s a tribute to American fallen soldiers.” &nbsp;The conjunction piece is called Hymn to the Fallen, and is taken from the movie, “Saving Private Ryan.” &nbsp;Under the direction of Eric Stambaugh, another&nbsp;of the band’s pieces will bring an auxiliary percussion assortment resembling the sound of helicopters. &nbsp;Around 30 students will be performing in the chorale. &nbsp;For those graduating students moving on, Allsup said the program will miss them. &nbsp;“We thank them for all the wonderful hours of care and&nbsp;working towards the level of artistry, that I think for community colleges in the state of Kansas, is way above average,” Allsup said. “I know that if their plans include moving on as a singing musician, that they've been prepared well to understand the kind of work that it takes to produce outstanding and interesting vibrant art in the choral and the vocal field.”&nbsp;The Spring Fling Concert will start at 7 p.m., according to Allsup, it will run for up to an hour and a half. &nbsp;The show will take place in the B.J. Warner Recital Hall at the Stringer Fine Arts Center located at 600 E. 11th Ave. in Hutchinson. &nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC Spring Fling Concert to feature tribute piece

Marlene Ann Marquez, 77, of Buhler, died April 22, 2023, at Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community. She was born November 19, 1945, in Smith Center.

Marlene graduated from Kensington High School in 1963 and from Hastings Beauty College in 1964. In addition to being a homemaker, she worked as a cosmetologist and provided child care in her home for many years. Marlene enjoyed sewing, especially quilting, gardening and playing Bunco. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church.

On June 13, 1965, Marlene married Cecil Marquez, in Kensington. He died May 17, 2016.

She is survived by: her daughters, Gina McConnell (Jeff) of Hutchinson, Jody Burnett (Darren) of Andover, Mindy Swensen of Bel Aire; grandchildren, Clay McConnell (Lauren) of Haysville, Casey McConnell (Mariah) of South Hutchinson, Megan Burnett of Andover, Kaden, Karsen, and Keaton Scheuler of Bel Aire; great-grandchildren, Cooper, Chloe, and Jett McConnell; sisters, Linda Rice (Sam) of Athol, Cathy Bronson (Donald) of Smithville, MO; brother, William Struckhoff (Jane) of Kensington; and many extended family members.

Marlene was preceded in death by: her parents; husband; a sister, Sharilyn Currey; and a brother, Robert Struckhoff.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Elliott Chapel. The service will be livestreamed and the link to view it below will be active 15 minutes prior to the start of the service.

A private family inurnment will take place in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday at Elliott Mortuary.

Memorials may be made to Gentiva Hospice, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682510799941.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Marlene Ann Marquez, 77, of Buhler, died April 22, 2023, at Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community. She was born November 19, 1945, in Smith Center.Marlene graduated from Kensington High School in 1963 and from Hastings Beauty College in 1964. In addition to being a homemaker, she worked as a cosmetologist and provided child care in her home for many years. Marlene enjoyed sewing, especially quilting, gardening and playing Bunco. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church.On June 13, 1965, Marlene married Cecil Marquez, in Kensington. He died May 17, 2016.She is survived by: her daughters, Gina McConnell (Jeff) of Hutchinson, Jody Burnett (Darren) of Andover, Mindy Swensen of Bel Aire; grandchildren, Clay McConnell (Lauren) of Haysville, Casey McConnell (Mariah) of South Hutchinson, Megan Burnett of Andover, Kaden, Karsen, and Keaton Scheuler of Bel Aire; great-grandchildren, Cooper, Chloe, and Jett McConnell; sisters, Linda Rice (Sam) of Athol, Cathy Bronson (Donald) of Smithville, MO; brother, William Struckhoff (Jane) of Kensington; and many extended family members.Marlene was preceded in death by: her parents; husband; a sister, Sharilyn Currey; and a brother, Robert Struckhoff.Cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Elliott Chapel. The service will be livestreamed and the link to view it below will be active 15 minutes prior to the start of the service.Click here to view the serviceA private family inurnment will take place in Memorial Park Cemetery.Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday at Elliott Mortuary.Memorials may be made to Gentiva Hospice, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Marlene Ann Marquez |1945-2023|

Hutchinson Community College freshman outfielder A.J. Mustow played a big role in the Blue Dragon baseball team's 5-0 week last week and was named the Jayhawk West Player of the Week on Tuesday.

Mustow, a 6-foot-4 freshman from Sydney, Australia, hit safely in all five games and drove in runs in 4 of 5 games to lead the Blue Dragons.

Mustow hit .550 for the week with four doubles, two home runs and 11 RBIs.

Mustow hit a key two-run home run in Hutchinson's 3-0 win in Game 3 of the Garden City series. He had a season-high four hits in the Dragons 19-9 win in Game 2 over the Busters.

Mustow had his first multi-home run game of the season with a pair of homers and four RBIs against the Sterling College JV. Mustow also had key outfield assist in throwing out a runner at the plate in the Dragons' 3-0 win over Garden City.

Mustow's weekly honor is the fourth time a Blue Dragon has been named a Jayhawk West Player of Pitcher of the Week this season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/edmunson_will_rdcc">Will Edmunson</a>&nbsp;has been named the Player of the Week twice this season and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/mckee_gus_hrea">Gus McKay</a>&nbsp;was a Pitcher of the Week.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682531693372.png" alt="Freshman outfielder A.J. Mustow was named the Jayhawk West Player of the Week on Tuesday. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Freshman outfielder A.J. Mustow was named the Jayhawk West Player of the Week on Tuesday. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Via Hutchinson CC Sports InformationHutchinson Community College freshman outfielder A.J. Mustow played a big role in the Blue Dragon baseball team's 5-0 week last week and was named the Jayhawk West Player of the Week on Tuesday.Mustow, a 6-foot-4 freshman from Sydney, Australia, hit safely in all five games and drove in runs in 4 of 5 games to lead the Blue Dragons.Mustow hit .550 for the week with four doubles, two home runs and 11 RBIs.Mustow hit a key two-run home run in Hutchinson's 3-0 win in Game 3 of the Garden City series. He had a season-high four hits in the Dragons 19-9 win in Game 2 over the Busters.Mustow had his first multi-home run game of the season with a pair of homers and four RBIs against the Sterling College JV. Mustow also had key outfield assist in throwing out a runner at the plate in the Dragons' 3-0 win over Garden City.Mustow's weekly honor is the fourth time a Blue Dragon has been named a Jayhawk West Player of Pitcher of the Week this season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/edmunson_will_rdcc">Will Edmunson</a>&nbsp;has been named the Player of the Week twice this season and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/mckee_gus_hrea">Gus McKay</a>&nbsp;was a Pitcher of the Week.<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;

⚾️ Blue Dragons Mustow named KJCCC West player of the week

With the potential of rain on both Wednesday and Friday in South-Central Kansas, the No. 14-ranked Hutchinson Community College softball team has announced an altered schedule for the final week of the 2023 season on Tuesday.

The original schedule had the Blue Dragons playing Seward County on Wednesday, the McPherson College JV on Friday and Pratt on Saturday, all games were to be at Fun Valley.

The altered schedule now has the Blue Dragons playing:

+ Seward County in a Jayhawk Conference doubleheader at 3 and 5 p.m. on Thursday at Fun Valley.

+ Pratt in a Jayhawk Conference doubleheader at 1 and 3 p.m. on Saturday at Fun Valley.

The McPherson College JV doubleheader has been cancelled.

Saturday's doubleheader with Pratt will also be Sophomore Recognition Day and Cancer Awareness Day.

The Blue Dragons enter the final week of the regular season in first place in the Jayhawk Conference at 37-6 overall and 25-3 in the KJCCC, one game ahead of second-place Butler.

<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/2023/4/1682531952478.png" alt="Blue Dragon Softball alters its schedule for the final week of the regular season, playing host to Seward County on Thursday and Pratt on Saturday. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon Softball alters its schedule for the final week of the regular season, playing host to Seward County on Thursday and Pratt on Saturday. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Via Hutchinson CC Sports InformationWith the potential of rain on both Wednesday and Friday in South-Central Kansas, the No. 14-ranked Hutchinson Community College softball team has announced an altered schedule for the final week of the 2023 season on Tuesday.The original schedule had the Blue Dragons playing Seward County on Wednesday, the McPherson College JV on Friday and Pratt on Saturday, all games were to be at Fun Valley.The altered schedule now has the Blue Dragons playing:+ Seward County in a Jayhawk Conference doubleheader at 3 and 5 p.m. on Thursday at Fun Valley.+ Pratt in a Jayhawk Conference doubleheader at 1 and 3 p.m. on Saturday at Fun Valley.The McPherson College JV doubleheader has been cancelled.Saturday's doubleheader with Pratt will also be Sophomore Recognition Day and Cancer Awareness Day.The Blue Dragons enter the final week of the regular season in first place in the Jayhawk Conference at 37-6 overall and 25-3 in the KJCCC, one game ahead of second-place Butler.<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 Dragon Softball alters this week's schedule

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/files/District_-_Final_Team.pdf">CLICK FOR FINAL CENTRAL DISTRICT TEAM RESULTS</a> <a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/files/District_-_Final_Player.pdf">CLICK FOR FINAL CENTRAL DISTRICT PLAYER RESULTS</a>

WICHITA – After a huge rebound round on Tuesday, the streak is intact for the No. 2-ranked Hutchinson Community College men's golf team.

The Blue Dragons rallied with the best team round of the NJCAA Central District/Region VI Championship to finish third overall at Crestview Country Club's North Course and earn an automatic bid to nationals for the 22nd-straight season.

The Blue Dragons shot 3-under par 285 on Tuesday and jumped two spots in the team standings to third with a 54-hole total of 892.

The two-time defending national champion Blue Dragons will now play in their 25th overall national tournament on May 16-19 at Sand Creek Station in Newton.

After shooting 31 strokes over par through 36 holes on Monday, the Blue Dragons led Barton by four strokes for the fifth and final automatic qualifying spot.

Starting with a birdie and eagle from sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/saffell_blake_2ov2">Blake Saffell</a>&nbsp;in the first nine holes, the Blue Dragons returned to form after a rough opening two rounds and the Dragons started to climb the team standings.

Counting scores of Saffell's 4-under 68, even par 72s from sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/clemons_dominic_18vf">Dominic Clemons</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/anderson_marco_z2pq">Marco Anderson</a>&nbsp;and 1-over 73 from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/lindstrom_alex_7wqw">Alex Lindstrom</a>, the Blue Dragons posted the best team round of the tournament at 285, moving past Iowa Western and Garden City to finish third in the district and second in the region.

Dodge City won both the district and team title at 13-over par 877 after a final round 292 on Tuesday. Indian Hills was second in the district after a Tuesday round of 295 and 54-hole total of 883. Garden City (896) and Iowa Western (899) were the other automatic qualifiers.

Lindstrom was the only Blue Dragon to finish in the Individual Top 10, tying for seventh place. Lindstrom struggled early in the final round reaching 4-over par through seven holes played. Lindstrom then played 3-under par over the remaining 11 holes to finish at 1-over 73 and tied for seventh at 4-over 220.

Anderson tied for 14th overall at 8-over 224. After rounds of 73 and 79 on Monday, Anderson had a steady final round of three birdies and three bogeys for an even-par 72. Anderson was 2-over through 15 holes, but had back-to-back birdies on his 16th and 17th holes to pull to level par for the round.

Both Saffell and Clemons tied for 17th at 226.

Saffell had the biggest recovery from the rough Monday where he posted back-to-back 79s. Starting his day on hole No. 6, Saffell birdied No. 11 and had an eagle on No. 14 to drop to 3-under for the round. Saffell had a bogey on No. 16, but erased that with a birdie on No. 18. Saffell added a birdie on No. 2 to post the best individual round and only sub-70 round of the tournament with a 68.

Clemons started the day with two bogeys over his first four holes, but carded birdies on Nos. 18 and No. 4 – Clemon's final hole of the tournament – to finish at 72 for the round.

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/svederman_kalle_hvj9">Kalle Svederman</a>&nbsp;shot a final round 2-over 74 on Tuesday and completed the tournament tied for 23rd at 228.

Blue Dragon individual player&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/galvin_louis_mscz">Louis Galvin</a>&nbsp;shot a 74 on Tuesday and finished tied for 23rd at 228.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/sauder_brooks_5d71">Brooks Sauder</a>&nbsp;closed with an 82 on Tuesday and finished tied for 52nd at 253.

There was a three-way tie for the District individual championship between Garden City's Joshua Balson-Scales, Dodge City's Arthit Kruaprayong and Coffeyville's Braden Smith at 2-over 218.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682506457701.jpeg" alt="Marco Anderson chips onto the first green during the final round of the NJCAA Central District Championship on Tuesday at Crestview Country Club in Wichita. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information) " />
 <figcaption>Marco Anderson chips onto the first green during the final round of the NJCAA Central District Championship on Tuesday at Crestview Country Club in Wichita. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information) </figcaption>
 </figure>Via Hutchinson CC Sports Information<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/files/District_-_Final_Team.pdf">CLICK FOR FINAL CENTRAL DISTRICT TEAM RESULTS</a> <a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/files/District_-_Final_Player.pdf">CLICK FOR FINAL CENTRAL DISTRICT PLAYER RESULTS</a>WICHITA – After a huge rebound round on Tuesday, the streak is intact for the No. 2-ranked Hutchinson Community College men's golf team.The Blue Dragons rallied with the best team round of the NJCAA Central District/Region VI Championship to finish third overall at Crestview Country Club's North Course and earn an automatic bid to nationals for the 22nd-straight season.The Blue Dragons shot 3-under par 285 on Tuesday and jumped two spots in the team standings to third with a 54-hole total of 892.The two-time defending national champion Blue Dragons will now play in their 25th overall national tournament on May 16-19 at Sand Creek Station in Newton.After shooting 31 strokes over par through 36 holes on Monday, the Blue Dragons led Barton by four strokes for the fifth and final automatic qualifying spot.Starting with a birdie and eagle from sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/saffell_blake_2ov2">Blake Saffell</a>&nbsp;in the first nine holes, the Blue Dragons returned to form after a rough opening two rounds and the Dragons started to climb the team standings.Counting scores of Saffell's 4-under 68, even par 72s from sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/clemons_dominic_18vf">Dominic Clemons</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/anderson_marco_z2pq">Marco Anderson</a>&nbsp;and 1-over 73 from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/lindstrom_alex_7wqw">Alex Lindstrom</a>, the Blue Dragons posted the best team round of the tournament at 285, moving past Iowa Western and Garden City to finish third in the district and second in the region.Dodge City won both the district and team title at 13-over par 877 after a final round 292 on Tuesday. Indian Hills was second in the district after a Tuesday round of 295 and 54-hole total of 883. Garden City (896) and Iowa Western (899) were the other automatic qualifiers.Lindstrom was the only Blue Dragon to finish in the Individual Top 10, tying for seventh place. Lindstrom struggled early in the final round reaching 4-over par through seven holes played. Lindstrom then played 3-under par over the remaining 11 holes to finish at 1-over 73 and tied for seventh at 4-over 220.Anderson tied for 14th overall at 8-over 224. After rounds of 73 and 79 on Monday, Anderson had a steady final round of three birdies and three bogeys for an even-par 72. Anderson was 2-over through 15 holes, but had back-to-back birdies on his 16th and 17th holes to pull to level par for the round.Both Saffell and Clemons tied for 17th at 226.Saffell had the biggest recovery from the rough Monday where he posted back-to-back 79s. Starting his day on hole No. 6, Saffell birdied No. 11 and had an eagle on No. 14 to drop to 3-under for the round. Saffell had a bogey on No. 16, but erased that with a birdie on No. 18. Saffell added a birdie on No. 2 to post the best individual round and only sub-70 round of the tournament with a 68.Clemons started the day with two bogeys over his first four holes, but carded birdies on Nos. 18 and No. 4 – Clemon's final hole of the tournament – to finish at 72 for the round.Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/svederman_kalle_hvj9">Kalle Svederman</a>&nbsp;shot a final round 2-over 74 on Tuesday and completed the tournament tied for 23rd at 228.Blue Dragon individual player&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/galvin_louis_mscz">Louis Galvin</a>&nbsp;shot a 74 on Tuesday and finished tied for 23rd at 228.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2022-23/bios/sauder_brooks_5d71">Brooks Sauder</a>&nbsp;closed with an 82 on Tuesday and finished tied for 52nd at 253.There was a three-way tie for the District individual championship between Garden City's Joshua Balson-Scales, Dodge City's Arthit Kruaprayong and Coffeyville's Braden Smith at 2-over 218.<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;

⛳️ HutchCC Golfers qualify for Nationals for 22nd straight season

Roger Leighton Roots, 77, passed away April 24, 2023, after a brief illness, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He is now reunited with the love of his life for over 54 years, Mary.

Roger was born December 4, 1945, in Hutchinson, to Clarence Albert “Bill” and Mildred Isabel (Copeland) Roots.&nbsp;&nbsp;He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1962, received his bachelor’s degree from Sterling College, and his master’s degree from Friends University. Roger served in the United States Air Force from 1966-1970.

&nbsp;For over 25 years, he was a middle school science teacher for USD 308.&nbsp;&nbsp;Roger was also a decorated Eagle Scout.&nbsp;&nbsp;He enjoyed woodworking, camping, and volunteering for the Bureau of Land Management in Wyoming and Montana.&nbsp;&nbsp;Roger’s faith and family were paramount in his life.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was known for giving his time, talent, and resources to help those less fortunate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Roger was proud of his family, especially his grandchildren.&nbsp;&nbsp;They were the apple of his eye.&nbsp;&nbsp;For many years, he and Mary attended Crossroads Christian Church, and most recently, he was attending Bethel Mennonite Church, Inman, with his family.

On March 18, 1967, he married Mary Arnelda Glass, in South Hutchinson.&nbsp;&nbsp;She died February 17, 2021.

Roger is survived by:&nbsp;&nbsp;children, Samuel Roots of Hutchinson (Jules Pitchford) of Colorado, Matthew Roots (Tricia) of Inman, and Katie Roots of New York, NY; grandchildren, Riley Roots, Jayden Roots, and Sterling Roots; sister-in-law, Patricia People; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by:&nbsp;&nbsp;his parents; wife, Mary; sister and brother-in-law, Bonnie and Frank Fee; brother-in-law, Frank Peoples; and niece, Carolyn Fee.

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023, at Bethel Mennonite Church, 256 8th&nbsp;Avenue, Inman, with his son, Matthew Roots and Pastor Bob Yates officiating. Military honors will be conducted by McConnell Air Force Base Honor Guard. Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday through Friday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cremation has taken place.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Operation Christmas Child-Samaritan’s Purse, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682449979136.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Roger Leighton Roots, 77, passed away April 24, 2023, after a brief illness, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He is now reunited with the love of his life for over 54 years, Mary.Roger was born December 4, 1945, in Hutchinson, to Clarence Albert “Bill” and Mildred Isabel (Copeland) Roots.&nbsp;&nbsp;He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1962, received his bachelor’s degree from Sterling College, and his master’s degree from Friends University. Roger served in the United States Air Force from 1966-1970.&nbsp;For over 25 years, he was a middle school science teacher for USD 308.&nbsp;&nbsp;Roger was also a decorated Eagle Scout.&nbsp;&nbsp;He enjoyed woodworking, camping, and volunteering for the Bureau of Land Management in Wyoming and Montana.&nbsp;&nbsp;Roger’s faith and family were paramount in his life.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was known for giving his time, talent, and resources to help those less fortunate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Roger was proud of his family, especially his grandchildren.&nbsp;&nbsp;They were the apple of his eye.&nbsp;&nbsp;For many years, he and Mary attended Crossroads Christian Church, and most recently, he was attending Bethel Mennonite Church, Inman, with his family.On March 18, 1967, he married Mary Arnelda Glass, in South Hutchinson.&nbsp;&nbsp;She died February 17, 2021.Roger is survived by:&nbsp;&nbsp;children, Samuel Roots of Hutchinson (Jules Pitchford) of Colorado, Matthew Roots (Tricia) of Inman, and Katie Roots of New York, NY; grandchildren, Riley Roots, Jayden Roots, and Sterling Roots; sister-in-law, Patricia People; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.He was preceded in death by:&nbsp;&nbsp;his parents; wife, Mary; sister and brother-in-law, Bonnie and Frank Fee; brother-in-law, Frank Peoples; and niece, Carolyn Fee.Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023, at Bethel Mennonite Church, 256 8th&nbsp;Avenue, Inman, with his son, Matthew Roots and Pastor Bob Yates officiating. Military honors will be conducted by McConnell Air Force Base Honor Guard. Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday through Friday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cremation has taken place.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Operation Christmas Child-Samaritan’s Purse, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Roger Leighton Roots |1945-2023|

Frank N. Blodgett, 84, passed peacefully, after a short illness, surrounded by family on Saturday, April 22, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;Frank was born March 2, 1939, in Great Bend, to Kenneth R. and Evelyn G. Blodgett.&nbsp; Frank lived in Claflin until his family moved to Hutchinson when he was a young boy.&nbsp;&nbsp; He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1957, and attended Hutchinson Community College and Kansas State University.&nbsp;

Frank married Sara Sue Bowles on November 24, 1962, in Hutchinson. After marriage, Frank and Sara moved to Frank’s farm in Arlington, where they raised their three daughters and lived for 55 years before retiring and moving to Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Frank is survived by: his wife of almost 61 years, Sara; daughters, Sara Weathers (Terry), Carrie Venezia, and Molly Williams (Michael), all of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Emily Reed (Tyler) of Great Bend, Erin Givens (Kassidy), Lane Williams, and Lexi Williams, all of Hutchinson; and three great- grandchildren, Cooper and Cohen Givens and Jensen Reed.

&nbsp;As a young farmer, Frank was given an award for his efforts in soil conservation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Later in life, he served on the Reno County Conservation Board for twelve years. After retiring from farming, Frank followed in his father’s footsteps and became a realtor and worked for Oswald Real Estate for many years.

&nbsp;Frank was a true family man and always a good friend.&nbsp;&nbsp;He treasured spending time with his family and special friends in the mountains of New Mexico. He enjoyed shooting trap with family and his fishing trips with “the guys”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Frank’s big heart touched the lives of many.

&nbsp;Memorial service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023, at First Mennonite Church, 52 Rambler Road, Hutchinson, with Pastor Tonya Ramer Wenger officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inurnment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson.&nbsp;&nbsp;Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 9:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, with the family present from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cremation has taken place.

&nbsp;<a href="https://youtube.com/live/PMgxqNkD41k?feature=share">Click here to view Frank's Memorial Service.</a>

Memorials are suggested to the First Mennonite Church of Hutchinson or Hospice of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp;&nbsp;67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682434277033.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Frank N. Blodgett, 84, passed peacefully, after a short illness, surrounded by family on Saturday, April 22, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;Frank was born March 2, 1939, in Great Bend, to Kenneth R. and Evelyn G. Blodgett.&nbsp; Frank lived in Claflin until his family moved to Hutchinson when he was a young boy.&nbsp;&nbsp; He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1957, and attended Hutchinson Community College and Kansas State University.&nbsp;Frank married Sara Sue Bowles on November 24, 1962, in Hutchinson. After marriage, Frank and Sara moved to Frank’s farm in Arlington, where they raised their three daughters and lived for 55 years before retiring and moving to Hutchinson.&nbsp;Frank is survived by: his wife of almost 61 years, Sara; daughters, Sara Weathers (Terry), Carrie Venezia, and Molly Williams (Michael), all of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Emily Reed (Tyler) of Great Bend, Erin Givens (Kassidy), Lane Williams, and Lexi Williams, all of Hutchinson; and three great- grandchildren, Cooper and Cohen Givens and Jensen Reed.&nbsp;As a young farmer, Frank was given an award for his efforts in soil conservation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Later in life, he served on the Reno County Conservation Board for twelve years. After retiring from farming, Frank followed in his father’s footsteps and became a realtor and worked for Oswald Real Estate for many years.&nbsp;Frank was a true family man and always a good friend.&nbsp;&nbsp;He treasured spending time with his family and special friends in the mountains of New Mexico. He enjoyed shooting trap with family and his fishing trips with “the guys”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Frank’s big heart touched the lives of many.&nbsp;Memorial service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023, at First Mennonite Church, 52 Rambler Road, Hutchinson, with Pastor Tonya Ramer Wenger officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inurnment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson.&nbsp;&nbsp;Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 9:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, with the family present from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cremation has taken place.&nbsp;<a href="https://youtube.com/live/PMgxqNkD41k?feature=share">Click here to view Frank's Memorial Service.</a>Memorials are suggested to the First Mennonite Church of Hutchinson or Hospice of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp;&nbsp;67501.

Frank N. Blodgett |1939-2023|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;A soon-to-be graduate from <a href="https://www.hutchcc.edu/academics/agriculture-business-computers-and-technology/journalism-aa-0602">Hutchinson Community College (HutchCC)</a>, Ainsley Trunkhill, was recently named<a href="https://kansascollegiatemedia.com/2023/04/17/ainsley-trunkhill-named-kansas-college-journalist-of-the-year-from-2-year-schools/"> the Two-Year College Journalist of the Year at the Kansas Collegiate Media Spring Conference on April 17</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trunkhill is a sophomore at HutchCC and&nbsp;the managing editor of content for the college’s student newspaper, the Hutchinson Collegian. She will be graduating with her associate degree in English Education from HutchCC this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hutchinson Collegian is a member of the Kansas Collegiate Media (KCM). The KCM is the state-wide student media organization. They serve Kansas college and university journalism programs, such as newspapers, magazines, and yearbooks, by providing contests and programming aimed at supporting the important, democratic function of news reporting and information dissemination.&nbsp;

Every year the KCM holds a contest at the Kansas Collegiate Spring Conference where Kansas journalism students enter their work. The contest typically takes place in mid-April at the Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview&nbsp;in Wichita, Kansas. &nbsp;

There are two major awards, Two-Year College Journalist of the Year and Four-Year College Journalist of the Year.&nbsp;

Various members of the Hutchinson Collegian also won smaller awards at the event.&nbsp;

Trunkhill was recognized for her work with the Collegian and won Journalist of the Year for Two-Year Colleges. She was acknowledged for feature writing, profile writing, and copy-editing, as well as receiving an honorable mention in column writing. &nbsp;

“What's most impressive about the awards that Ainsley won, is she graduated from high school last spring, so she was playing with half a deck,” Brad Hallier, Assistant Professor of Journalism at HutchCC and Hutchinson Collegian faculty advisor, said.&nbsp;Everybody else gets to enter anything from 2022 from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, but she couldn’t enter anything from last spring because she was in high school.” &nbsp;

This meant that all the content Trunkhill&nbsp;submitted was, and could only be, from the fall.&nbsp;

“It was honestly, such an immense honor,” Trunkhill said. “I came in with very little expectations because I had less content and less experience as compared to the other competitors. But just being able to be recognized for that small content I was able to produce shows that people actually care about the work that I'm doing, and people recognize my writing and it's always nice to be recognized for something that you're proud of and seeing other people be proud of that as well.” &nbsp;

Trunkhill is not sure yet about what kind of journalist she wants to be, but has a path set for herself. &nbsp;

“I don't have anything solidified yet,” Trunkhill said. “I know next year I want to continue doing journalism at K-State and write for the paper there.” &nbsp;

Trunkhill is very passionate about investigative journalism. &nbsp;

“I think my favorite work that I've done so far has been investigative work and profile work on people,” Trunkhill said. “I did a story on an international student, Felipe Trautmann, who had just this insane story, and it was great to be able to meet him and talk about those things. Then I did a story on sex trafficking in Hutchinson, and that was really eye opening, too.” &nbsp;

Trunkhill has education in mind for her future. &nbsp;

“I want to be a teacher one day, and so whether that's a teacher of journalism, a teacher of English, that's all still in the future,” Trunkhill said. &nbsp;

No matter what Trunkhill does, her passion for English and writing is at the root.

“English has always been this huge love of mine,” Trunkhill said. “Ever since I was little, I was an avid reader, an avid writer, just writing on napkins and in my Notes app and everything. 

She also had familiarity with her instructor, Brad Hallie.

“Then I knew Brad from his daughter, we're friends, played soccer together, and so it just seemed right. I was like, ‘you know, I just want to try something new, get myself involved in the short time that I'm at HCC.’ So, it was just kind of on a whim that I decided to do this [journalism] and then after seeing that first paper that I produced, I had this really awesome opportunity.”&nbsp;

Trunkhill’s opportunity came in the form of an interview with former Reno County undersheriff and HutchCC’s former police instructor, Sheldon Stewart. &nbsp;She called her interview with him a&nbsp;perfect starting off point, and recalled it was amazing to see it published in an actual paper. That profile experience prompted Trunkhill to keep going with journalism. &nbsp;

A student from the Hutchinson Collegian has won Two-Year College Journalist of the Year&nbsp;five years out of the last seven. Trunkhill is the fifth to win the award. &nbsp;

“It speaks highly of Brad and the work that he's able to do and in his career and how he's able to guide students and be a mentor for students,” Trunkhill said. “It shows a level of success that's able to come out of HutchCC, and it's cool being able to see all these people reach success, and the different parts of the state and different parts of the country having all originated from this one small college.”&nbsp;

Trunkhill has met other successes from the HutchCC journalism program and cites that as a testament not just to Hallier and HutchCC, but also to her possible future. &nbsp;

“I got to meet with Sam Bailey, who was the Four-Year Journalist of the Year this year, she's at Emporia State, and she won Two-Year Journalist of the Year when she was at HCC,” Trunkhill said. It's kind of like, you know, looking into the future and seeing maybe I could win Four-Year Journalist and I could be a writer at Emporia State&nbsp;or covering these hot topic issues. It's nice to kind of recognize where people came from and then see where you can grow from there.” &nbsp;

Trunkhill said her time at the Hutchinson Collegian opened her eyes to the importance and realism of journalism at the local level. &nbsp;

“I'll start off by saying before the Collegian, I didn't have the appreciation that I have now for local journalism,” Trunkhill said. “I was very focused these big magazines, New York Times, Washington Post, just high profile, national news, and&nbsp;I really didn't have as much of a&nbsp;care for what's happening in my in my own town.&nbsp;

“Then actually being in there and&nbsp;seeing the inside workings of it, made me have just so much more of an appreciation for it and it helped me be more connected in my town.”&nbsp;

From there, Trunkhill’s appreciation for local stories&nbsp;only grew as she read&nbsp;different sites&nbsp;based not just in Hutchinson, but Kansas as well. &nbsp;

“I think that's something that is important for people to know, is that you need to have a footing in your own community and then that can be applied to a national scale or to an international scale.” Trunkhill said. “But it all starts in your own town, and it all starts with how you're engaging with the people you actually see face-to-face and the people in your workplace and in your grocery store. If you want to have an impact, you have to start with what's in front of you and start with what you know.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682348108389.jpeg" alt="Ainsley Trunkhill and Brad Hallier." />
 <figcaption>Ainsley Trunkhill and Brad Hallier.</figcaption>
 </figure>JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;A soon-to-be graduate from <a href="https://www.hutchcc.edu/academics/agriculture-business-computers-and-technology/journalism-aa-0602">Hutchinson Community College (HutchCC)</a>, Ainsley Trunkhill, was recently named<a href="https://kansascollegiatemedia.com/2023/04/17/ainsley-trunkhill-named-kansas-college-journalist-of-the-year-from-2-year-schools/"> the Two-Year College Journalist of the Year at the Kansas Collegiate Media Spring Conference on April 17</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trunkhill is a sophomore at HutchCC and&nbsp;the managing editor of content for the college’s student newspaper, the Hutchinson Collegian. She will be graduating with her associate degree in English Education from HutchCC this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Hutchinson Collegian is a member of the Kansas Collegiate Media (KCM). The KCM is the state-wide student media organization. They serve Kansas college and university journalism programs, such as newspapers, magazines, and yearbooks, by providing contests and programming aimed at supporting the important, democratic function of news reporting and information dissemination.&nbsp;Every year the KCM holds a contest at the Kansas Collegiate Spring Conference where Kansas journalism students enter their work. The contest typically takes place in mid-April at the Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview&nbsp;in Wichita, Kansas. &nbsp;There are two major awards, Two-Year College Journalist of the Year and Four-Year College Journalist of the Year.&nbsp;Various members of the Hutchinson Collegian also won smaller awards at the event.&nbsp;Trunkhill was recognized for her work with the Collegian and won Journalist of the Year for Two-Year Colleges. She was acknowledged for feature writing, profile writing, and copy-editing, as well as receiving an honorable mention in column writing. &nbsp;“What's most impressive about the awards that Ainsley won, is she graduated from high school last spring, so she was playing with half a deck,” Brad Hallier, Assistant Professor of Journalism at HutchCC and Hutchinson Collegian faculty advisor, said.&nbsp;Everybody else gets to enter anything from 2022 from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, but she couldn’t enter anything from last spring because she was in high school.” &nbsp;This meant that all the content Trunkhill&nbsp;submitted was, and could only be, from the fall.&nbsp;“It was honestly, such an immense honor,” Trunkhill said. “I came in with very little expectations because I had less content and less experience as compared to the other competitors. But just being able to be recognized for that small content I was able to produce shows that people actually care about the work that I'm doing, and people recognize my writing and it's always nice to be recognized for something that you're proud of and seeing other people be proud of that as well.” &nbsp;Trunkhill is not sure yet about what kind of journalist she wants to be, but has a path set for herself. &nbsp;“I don't have anything solidified yet,” Trunkhill said. “I know next year I want to continue doing journalism at K-State and write for the paper there.” &nbsp;Trunkhill is very passionate about investigative journalism. &nbsp;“I think my favorite work that I've done so far has been investigative work and profile work on people,” Trunkhill said. “I did a story on an international student, Felipe Trautmann, who had just this insane story, and it was great to be able to meet him and talk about those things. Then I did a story on sex trafficking in Hutchinson, and that was really eye opening, too.” &nbsp;Trunkhill has education in mind for her future. &nbsp;“I want to be a teacher one day, and so whether that's a teacher of journalism, a teacher of English, that's all still in the future,” Trunkhill said. &nbsp;No matter what Trunkhill does, her passion for English and writing is at the root.“English has always been this huge love of mine,” Trunkhill said. “Ever since I was little, I was an avid reader, an avid writer, just writing on napkins and in my Notes app and everything. She also had familiarity with her instructor, Brad Hallie.“Then I knew Brad from his daughter, we're friends, played soccer together, and so it just seemed right. I was like, ‘you know, I just want to try something new, get myself involved in the short time that I'm at HCC.’ So, it was just kind of on a whim that I decided to do this [journalism] and then after seeing that first paper that I produced, I had this really awesome opportunity.”&nbsp;Trunkhill’s opportunity came in the form of an interview with former Reno County undersheriff and HutchCC’s former police instructor, Sheldon Stewart. &nbsp;She called her interview with him a&nbsp;perfect starting off point, and recalled it was amazing to see it published in an actual paper. That profile experience prompted Trunkhill to keep going with journalism. &nbsp;A student from the Hutchinson Collegian has won Two-Year College Journalist of the Year&nbsp;five years out of the last seven. Trunkhill is the fifth to win the award. &nbsp;“It speaks highly of Brad and the work that he's able to do and in his career and how he's able to guide students and be a mentor for students,” Trunkhill said. “It shows a level of success that's able to come out of HutchCC, and it's cool being able to see all these people reach success, and the different parts of the state and different parts of the country having all originated from this one small college.”&nbsp;Trunkhill has met other successes from the HutchCC journalism program and cites that as a testament not just to Hallier and HutchCC, but also to her possible future. &nbsp;“I got to meet with Sam Bailey, who was the Four-Year Journalist of the Year this year, she's at Emporia State, and she won Two-Year Journalist of the Year when she was at HCC,” Trunkhill said. It's kind of like, you know, looking into the future and seeing maybe I could win Four-Year Journalist and I could be a writer at Emporia State&nbsp;or covering these hot topic issues. It's nice to kind of recognize where people came from and then see where you can grow from there.” &nbsp;Trunkhill said her time at the Hutchinson Collegian opened her eyes to the importance and realism of journalism at the local level. &nbsp;“I'll start off by saying before the Collegian, I didn't have the appreciation that I have now for local journalism,” Trunkhill said. “I was very focused these big magazines, New York Times, Washington Post, just high profile, national news, and&nbsp;I really didn't have as much of a&nbsp;care for what's happening in my in my own town.&nbsp;“Then actually being in there and&nbsp;seeing the inside workings of it, made me have just so much more of an appreciation for it and it helped me be more connected in my town.”&nbsp;From there, Trunkhill’s appreciation for local stories&nbsp;only grew as she read&nbsp;different sites&nbsp;based not just in Hutchinson, but Kansas as well. &nbsp;“I think that's something that is important for people to know, is that you need to have a footing in your own community and then that can be applied to a national scale or to an international scale.” Trunkhill said. “But it all starts in your own town, and it all starts with how you're engaging with the people you actually see face-to-face and the people in your workplace and in your grocery store. If you want to have an impact, you have to start with what's in front of you and start with what you know.”&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

HutchCC journalist wins state award 

⛳️ Blue Dragons fifth after day 1 at District Championship

<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/sball/rankings/DI/index" target="_blank">CLICK FOR LATEST NJCAA DIVISION I SOFTBALL RANKINGS</a>

Entering the final week of the 2023 regular season, the Hutchinson Community College softball team moved up one spot to No. 14 in the latest NJCAA Division I Rankings released on Monday.

The No. 14 ranking is the second-highest rank of the season for the Blue Dragons. Hutchinson was ranked as high as No. 13 on March 27.

The Blue Dragons are riding an eight-game winning streak entering a busy final week of the regular season with Jayhawk Conference doubleheader against Seward County at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sophomore Day on Friday against the McPherson College JV and the regular-season and KJCCC finale on Saturday at Pratt.

The Blue Dragons are 37-6 overall and remain atop the Jayhawk Conference standings with a 25-3 record, one game ahead of second-place Butler.

Last week Hutchinson run-ruled Northwest Tech 9-1 and 30-0 on Wednesday. The Dragons rallied to win Game 1 on Saturday at Garden City 8-4 after trailing 4-0 after two innings. The Dragons then run-ruled The Broncbusters 13-0 in Game 2.

Butler (35-10) is the only other Jayhawk Conference team ranked in the poll at No. 18.

Odessa (40-4) takes over as the new No. 1 team in the NJCAA Rankings. Wallace State (43-5) moves up to No. 2. Previous No. 1 Florida SouthWestern (43-5) dropped to No. 3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682401041343.jpeg" alt="The Blue Dragon Softball team moves up to No. 14 in this week's NJCAA Division I rankings. (Andrew Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>The Blue Dragon Softball team moves up to No. 14 in this week's NJCAA Division I rankings. (Andrew Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Via Hutchinson CC Sports Information<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/sball/rankings/DI/index" target="_blank">CLICK FOR LATEST NJCAA DIVISION I SOFTBALL RANKINGS</a>Entering the final week of the 2023 regular season, the Hutchinson Community College softball team moved up one spot to No. 14 in the latest NJCAA Division I Rankings released on Monday.The No. 14 ranking is the second-highest rank of the season for the Blue Dragons. Hutchinson was ranked as high as No. 13 on March 27.The Blue Dragons are riding an eight-game winning streak entering a busy final week of the regular season with Jayhawk Conference doubleheader against Seward County at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sophomore Day on Friday against the McPherson College JV and the regular-season and KJCCC finale on Saturday at Pratt.The Blue Dragons are 37-6 overall and remain atop the Jayhawk Conference standings with a 25-3 record, one game ahead of second-place Butler.Last week Hutchinson run-ruled Northwest Tech 9-1 and 30-0 on Wednesday. The Dragons rallied to win Game 1 on Saturday at Garden City 8-4 after trailing 4-0 after two innings. The Dragons then run-ruled The Broncbusters 13-0 in Game 2.Butler (35-10) is the only other Jayhawk Conference team ranked in the poll at No. 18.Odessa (40-4) takes over as the new No. 1 team in the NJCAA Rankings. Wallace State (43-5) moves up to No. 2. Previous No. 1 Florida SouthWestern (43-5) dropped to No. 3.<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;

🥎 Blue Dragons climb to No. 14 in NJCAA D1 rankings

 ⚾ Blue Dragons win sixth-straight with win over Sterling College JV

Daryl W. Downing, 79, of Hutchinson, died April 21, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born April 22, 1943, at Hoffman Memorial Hospital, Little River, to Cecil B. and Bernice L. (Smith) Downing.

Daryl graduated from Little River High School in 1961. Following high school, he attended junior college for two years, then graduated from Adela Hale Business School in 1965. He worked as a machinist/can line operator at Carey Salt Evaporation Plant for 34 years. Thereafter, Daryl was a supply deliveryman at Hutchinson Clinic Central Supply for 16 years. Daryl knew how to keep busy; he was always “on the go.” In his free time, Daryl loved cars. He would frequently feature his trucks in car shows. Daryl was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He would do anything for anyone. He was especially talented at telling stories; he would talk everyone’s ears off. One thing that he was particularly proud of were his two grandchildren. Daryl loved watching his grandchildren at their sporting events. He would try his hardest to make it to every game.

On March 24, 1973, he married Theresa M. Hampel in Hutchinson, KS. They shared over 50 years of marriage before he passed.

Daryl is survived by: wife, Theresa (Terri) Downing, of Hutchinson; son, Darrin (Abbi) Downing, of Wichita; grandchildren, Daxton and Eastyn Downing, also of Wichita; special niece, Melissa (Kelley) Scheffe, of Hutchinson; and other nieces and nephews in California.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Charlene Lawson.

Celebration of Life Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday, April 27, 2023, at Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Montie McFerrin officiating. Burial will follow at 12 p.m. in Bean Memorial Cemetery, Little River. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

The service will be livestreamed at <a href="https://www.elliottmortuary.com/">https://www.elliottmortuary.com/</a>.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice House, Hutchinson, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682332130075.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Daryl W. Downing, 79, of Hutchinson, died April 21, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born April 22, 1943, at Hoffman Memorial Hospital, Little River, to Cecil B. and Bernice L. (Smith) Downing.Daryl graduated from Little River High School in 1961. Following high school, he attended junior college for two years, then graduated from Adela Hale Business School in 1965. He worked as a machinist/can line operator at Carey Salt Evaporation Plant for 34 years. Thereafter, Daryl was a supply deliveryman at Hutchinson Clinic Central Supply for 16 years. Daryl knew how to keep busy; he was always “on the go.” In his free time, Daryl loved cars. He would frequently feature his trucks in car shows. Daryl was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He would do anything for anyone. He was especially talented at telling stories; he would talk everyone’s ears off. One thing that he was particularly proud of were his two grandchildren. Daryl loved watching his grandchildren at their sporting events. He would try his hardest to make it to every game.On March 24, 1973, he married Theresa M. Hampel in Hutchinson, KS. They shared over 50 years of marriage before he passed.Daryl is survived by: wife, Theresa (Terri) Downing, of Hutchinson; son, Darrin (Abbi) Downing, of Wichita; grandchildren, Daxton and Eastyn Downing, also of Wichita; special niece, Melissa (Kelley) Scheffe, of Hutchinson; and other nieces and nephews in California.He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Charlene Lawson.Celebration of Life Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday, April 27, 2023, at Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Montie McFerrin officiating. Burial will follow at 12 p.m. in Bean Memorial Cemetery, Little River. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.The service will be livestreamed at <a href="https://www.elliottmortuary.com/">https://www.elliottmortuary.com/</a>.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice House, Hutchinson, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Daryl W. Downing |1943-2023|

 ⚾️ Blue Dragons finish series sweep with Garden City

  🥎 Grimes' milestone hit powers Blue Dragon comeback

👟 BLUE DRAGON MEN CAPTURE 6 EVENT TITLES AT TABOR INVITE Blue Dragon men capture 6 event titles at Tabor Invite

👟 Davis qualifies for National Hammer

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School senior running back Noah Khokhar has been named the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Male Athlete of the Year for 2022-23 in Kansas.

Khokhar is a senior at Hutchinson High School and plans to attend Hutchinson Community College on a football scholarship in the fall.

(Highlights courtesy of Hutch Post videographer Matt Peterson.)

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682259496404.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School senior running back Noah Khokhar has been named the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Male Athlete of the Year for 2022-23 in Kansas.Khokhar is a senior at Hutchinson High School and plans to attend Hutchinson Community College on a football scholarship in the fall.<div><iframe width="680" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oiYqEHBkqNo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>(Highlights courtesy of Hutch Post videographer Matt Peterson.)<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;

🏈 Hutch High's Noah Khokhar named FCA's Male Athlete of the Year

Carol Ann Ewing, 75, died April 20, 2023, at Buhler Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community, after a long, but courageous battle against cancer. She was born January 16, 1948, in Sioux City, IA, to LeRoy Lawrence and Shirley Jean (Harwood) Muir.

Carol attended Nickerson High School and obtained a GED. She also took classes at Hutchinson Community College in 1972.

She worked at Krause Corporation, now KUHN Krause, for almost 25 years. Carol was the receptionist and loved it! No work day was the same for her. She loved interacting with and meeting new people. Carol didn’t know a stranger and had the gift of gab.

Watching sports took up most of her free time. She loved NASCAR (Kyle Busch), football (K-State and the Kansas City Chiefs), and NCAA men’s basketball, especially March Madness.

Carol is survived by: her two beautiful children, Lisa Ewing and Matthew (La Shaune) Ewing; older brother, Jim Muir; baby brother, Randy (Julie) Gould; sister, Janette Singer; grandchildren, Tyler, Thomas and Ellie Ewing.

She was preceded in death by: her grandparents; parents; brothers, Steve Gould and Tom Gould; sister, Sherry Serkes; sister-in-law, Cindy Muir; and granddogs, Honey, Chance, Chocolate, and Layla.

Per Carol’s request, cremation has taken place and no funeral services are planned.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Cancer Council of Reno County or to Carol Ewing Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682167835048.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carol Ann Ewing, 75, died April 20, 2023, at Buhler Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community, after a long, but courageous battle against cancer. She was born January 16, 1948, in Sioux City, IA, to LeRoy Lawrence and Shirley Jean (Harwood) Muir.Carol attended Nickerson High School and obtained a GED. She also took classes at Hutchinson Community College in 1972.She worked at Krause Corporation, now KUHN Krause, for almost 25 years. Carol was the receptionist and loved it! No work day was the same for her. She loved interacting with and meeting new people. Carol didn’t know a stranger and had the gift of gab.Watching sports took up most of her free time. She loved NASCAR (Kyle Busch), football (K-State and the Kansas City Chiefs), and NCAA men’s basketball, especially March Madness.Carol is survived by: her two beautiful children, Lisa Ewing and Matthew (La Shaune) Ewing; older brother, Jim Muir; baby brother, Randy (Julie) Gould; sister, Janette Singer; grandchildren, Tyler, Thomas and Ellie Ewing.She was preceded in death by: her grandparents; parents; brothers, Steve Gould and Tom Gould; sister, Sherry Serkes; sister-in-law, Cindy Muir; and granddogs, Honey, Chance, Chocolate, and Layla.Per Carol’s request, cremation has taken place and no funeral services are planned.In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Cancer Council of Reno County or to Carol Ewing Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.