TOPEKA — The KSHSAA is pleased to announce the selection of Billy Watson, Devin Hanney and Tyler Smith as the 2023 Oscar Stauffer Award recipients.

The KSHSAA Oscar Stauffer Sportswriter of the Year award winner is Billy Watson formerly of the Hutchinson News.&nbsp;

Originally from Newmarket, Ontario, Canada, Billy Watson grew up in La Feria, Texas, and graduated with a bach­elor’s degree in journalism from Texas Tech University in December of 2020. He discovered his love for high school sports in college while freelancing for HubCityPreps.com, an online high school sports coverage web­site.&nbsp;Watson also covered Texas Tech football, basketball and baseball working for Rivals site RedRaid­erSports.com, ran social media for Texas Tech Intramural sports, and was featured on ESPN, CBS Sports, Yahoo Sports, USA Today, and Sports Illustrated in addition to Rivals.&nbsp;Prior to moving to Kansas, he was a day-time man­aging editor at two small weekly newspapers in his hometown while also calling high school sports for Rio Sports Live in the late afternoons, a growing live-streaming company in South Texas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In March 2021, Watson started working at The Hutchinson News where he covered nine schools in Reno County: Hutchinson, Buhler, Haven, Nickerson, Hutchinson-Central Christian, Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, Pretty Prairie, Reno County Homeschool, Langdon-Fairfield, as well as surrounding schools outside of the county such as Hesston, McPherson, Inman, Sterling, and Cheney.&nbsp; In just one school year with the paper, Watson was able to re­port on many state championships and state title-winning individuals such as Buhler’s Sam Elliott, and community stories that mattered, including the stories of Hadley Nelson and Ava Jones.&nbsp; He was able to cover Hutchinson vol­leyball’s state tournament runs, Buhler football’s 2021 postseason journey to the sub-state final, Buhler/McPherson boys basketball in state quarterfinals, Pretty Prairie’s first-ever girls basketball state title, Hesston boys basketball’s back-to-back state titles, Buhler girls soccer’s cinderella-like run to the 2022 state championship, Haven softball’s 2021 dominance to a third-place finish and more.&nbsp; Watson also covered the NJCAA men’s national basketball tour­nament and the national championship-winning Hutchinson Blue Dragons football team for The Hutchinson News.&nbsp; In August of 2022, he joined the Hutchinson Community College athletics department where he currently serves as the coordinator of events.&nbsp; Watson has been a KSHSAA registered basketball official in Kansas for two years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The KSHSAA Oscar Stauffer Sportscasters of the Year award winners are Devin Hanney and Tyler Smith from KINA 910 Radio in Salina.

This is the second time Hanney has received the award, previously winning in 2019.&nbsp; Hanney graduated from Chap­man High School and has worked in sports broadcasting since 1994 when he began at Cloud County Community College student radio station KVCO, calling basketball games. He also began broadcasting high school sports dur­ing this time period, calling volleyball, basketball and wrestling for Concordia High School.

After earning his degree at Cloud County, Hanney went on to work in the Abilene area for EBC, Inc. broadcasting area high school sports from 1997 through 2009. During this time period, Hanney called Abilene High School games and hosted weekly coaching shows featuring Dickinson County coaches on KABI 1560, announced the game of the week on KSAJ 98.5, and broadcast a daily sports update on both radio stations.

Hanney has been the “Voice of Southeast of Saline Sports” since 2009. He is also a marketing consultant and broadcasts games for the Salina Liberty Indoor Football team. Hanney has been the Sports Director for Eagle Com­munications in Salina since 2013.

Hanney’s broadcast partner, Tyler Smith, currently teaches Physical Education and coaches football and baseball at Salina South High School. In Smith’s 18 years of teaching and coaching, he has found a passion in helping provide student-athletes the best experience possible. In addition to his coaching duties, Smith also officiates, works youth camps, and works on various forms of media including Southeast of Saline Basketball games on 910 KINA and the Salina Post.

Smith is married to Southeast of Saline Lady Trojans Head Basketball Coach Shauna Smith and is the father of two daughters, 6-year-old Blakely and 4-year-old Everly.

Release from KSHSAATOPEKA — The KSHSAA is pleased to announce the selection of Billy Watson, Devin Hanney and Tyler Smith as the 2023 Oscar Stauffer Award recipients.The KSHSAA Oscar Stauffer Sportswriter of the Year award winner is Billy Watson formerly of the Hutchinson News.&nbsp;Originally from Newmarket, Ontario, Canada, Billy Watson grew up in La Feria, Texas, and graduated with a bach­elor’s degree in journalism from Texas Tech University in December of 2020. He discovered his love for high school sports in college while freelancing for HubCityPreps.com, an online high school sports coverage web­site.&nbsp;Watson also covered Texas Tech football, basketball and baseball working for Rivals site RedRaid­erSports.com, ran social media for Texas Tech Intramural sports, and was featured on ESPN, CBS Sports, Yahoo Sports, USA Today, and Sports Illustrated in addition to Rivals.&nbsp;Prior to moving to Kansas, he was a day-time man­aging editor at two small weekly newspapers in his hometown while also calling high school sports for Rio Sports Live in the late afternoons, a growing live-streaming company in South Texas.&nbsp;&nbsp;In March 2021, Watson started working at The Hutchinson News where he covered nine schools in Reno County: Hutchinson, Buhler, Haven, Nickerson, Hutchinson-Central Christian, Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, Pretty Prairie, Reno County Homeschool, Langdon-Fairfield, as well as surrounding schools outside of the county such as Hesston, McPherson, Inman, Sterling, and Cheney.&nbsp; In just one school year with the paper, Watson was able to re­port on many state championships and state title-winning individuals such as Buhler’s Sam Elliott, and community stories that mattered, including the stories of Hadley Nelson and Ava Jones.&nbsp; He was able to cover Hutchinson vol­leyball’s state tournament runs, Buhler football’s 2021 postseason journey to the sub-state final, Buhler/McPherson boys basketball in state quarterfinals, Pretty Prairie’s first-ever girls basketball state title, Hesston boys basketball’s back-to-back state titles, Buhler girls soccer’s cinderella-like run to the 2022 state championship, Haven softball’s 2021 dominance to a third-place finish and more.&nbsp; Watson also covered the NJCAA men’s national basketball tour­nament and the national championship-winning Hutchinson Blue Dragons football team for The Hutchinson News.&nbsp; In August of 2022, he joined the Hutchinson Community College athletics department where he currently serves as the coordinator of events.&nbsp; Watson has been a KSHSAA registered basketball official in Kansas for two years.&nbsp;&nbsp;The KSHSAA Oscar Stauffer Sportscasters of the Year award winners are Devin Hanney and Tyler Smith from KINA 910 Radio in Salina.This is the second time Hanney has received the award, previously winning in 2019.&nbsp; Hanney graduated from Chap­man High School and has worked in sports broadcasting since 1994 when he began at Cloud County Community College student radio station KVCO, calling basketball games. He also began broadcasting high school sports dur­ing this time period, calling volleyball, basketball and wrestling for Concordia High School.After earning his degree at Cloud County, Hanney went on to work in the Abilene area for EBC, Inc. broadcasting area high school sports from 1997 through 2009. During this time period, Hanney called Abilene High School games and hosted weekly coaching shows featuring Dickinson County coaches on KABI 1560, announced the game of the week on KSAJ 98.5, and broadcast a daily sports update on both radio stations.Hanney has been the “Voice of Southeast of Saline Sports” since 2009. He is also a marketing consultant and broadcasts games for the Salina Liberty Indoor Football team. Hanney has been the Sports Director for Eagle Com­munications in Salina since 2013.Hanney’s broadcast partner, Tyler Smith, currently teaches Physical Education and coaches football and baseball at Salina South High School. In Smith’s 18 years of teaching and coaching, he has found a passion in helping provide student-athletes the best experience possible. In addition to his coaching duties, Smith also officiates, works youth camps, and works on various forms of media including Southeast of Saline Basketball games on 910 KINA and the Salina Post.Smith is married to Southeast of Saline Lady Trojans Head Basketball Coach Shauna Smith and is the father of two daughters, 6-year-old Blakely and 4-year-old Everly.

Watson selected as Stauffer winner

Eva K. Thiessen Friesen was born on January 9, 1942. She was the youngest of eight children born to Henry D. Thiessen and Tina D. Klaassen Thiessen. Eva grew up on a farm 2.5 miles west of Inman. She attended Golden Rule Grade School through the 5th grade until the school consolidated with other small schools to become Countryside Grade School. Eva grew up in the Zoar Mennonite Church. She accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior upon confession of her faith and was baptized in Dillon Lake, Hutchinson by Reverend Arnold Ensz on August 19, 1956. Eva graduated from Inman Rural High School in 1960 and attended Sterling College for one semester then graduated from Adela Hale School of Business in Hutchinson. Her first job was as a secretary for Western and Southern Life Insurance.

Eva first met Willard as a friend of Joyce, Wayne, and Paul Ensz who were good friends of the family. A few years later, Eva was a 7th grader with Willard at Countryside Grade School. During this year, Willard gave Eva his 6th grade school picture signed “Love, Willard” in red ink. Eva still had this picture. Eva married Willard Friesen on September 16, 1962 at Bethel Mennonite Church. She transferred her membership to Bethel and remained a member until death. Eva taught Sunday School classes, a Wednesday night class, and sang in the church choir. She was also a member of the Homesteaders EHU.

Willie and Eva lived in Hutchinson when their first son, Jeff was born in 1964. Scott was born in 1967. Later that year, they built their first home on 44th street in Hutchinson and lived there for six years. Eva worked nights for three years at First National Bank during this time. Willie was a car salesman at Davis Child in Hutchinson. In 1973, Willie took a job at Reimer Ford in McPherson and the family moved to Inman where they built a home that they lived in until Eva moved to the estates at Pleasant View Home in 2020.

Eva started working for Penner Feed and Supply as a bookkeeper in 1979 and was there for ten years. She then worked as the Inman City Clerk for 23 years until she retired in 2012. After that, Eva was a volunteer Treasurer for the Inman Senior Center. She loved going to the Harvest Cafe for coffee with her friends. This group was very important to her, especially after Willie passed away. Willie and Eva enjoyed friendships with other couples they had grown up with in school and church. Weekends were spent at Kanapolis Lake with these couples. This was a special bond and all of the couples ended up being married for fifty years or more. Willie and Eva almost made it to fifty-three and Willie was the first to break that circle with his death in 2015.

Willie and Eva especially enjoyed attending sporting events that their boys were involved in. Both of the boys made them proud. They both came back to Inman after college and married wonderful girls. They lived three and five blocks from Willie and Eva. There are five grandsons that they were so proud of: Jake, Jason, Jared, Justin, and Jordan. They also were able to enjoy watching them participate in sports and other school events.

After retirement, Willie and Eva were able to take trips by car and that was something that they loved to do. They also had many memories from trips to Cancun, Hawaii, Alaska, and many other vacations. A quote from Eva: “We had trials and illnesses, but God saw us through. To God be the glory!”.

Proceeding Eva in death were her husband, Willie, her parents: Mr. and Mrs. H.D. Thiessen; Willie’s parents: Martin and Ruth Friesen; Sister, Lilly Ann Pankratz and husband Emerson; Brothers, Phil Thiessen and wife Alma, Clarence Thiessen and wife Helen; Ben Thiessen and wife Stella; Leo Thiessen and wife Pat; Brother in-law Jim Stephens; Nephew Greg Thiessen; Niece Janet Thiessen

Survivors; Jeff and wife Nancy Friesen, Inman; Scott and wife Peggy Friesen, Inman, Sister Sophia Stephens, Inman; Brother Bruce Thiessen and wife Verbie, Inman. Sister in-laws Ann Snyder, Inman and KayLee Thiessen, Denver, CO. Grandsons: Jake Friesen and wife Rebecca, St. Louis, MO; Jason Friesen, Emporia, KS; Jared Friesen, Taiwan; Justin Friesen and wife Krystan, Inman; Jordan Friesen, Manhattan, KS. Nieces and Nephews; Lois, Lyle, Amy, Julie, Diane, Lisa, Tami, Dave, Jennifer, and April and many more relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 3, 2023, at Bethel Mennonite Church, with the family present. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 4, 2023, at North Inman Cemetery. Celebration of Life Services will follow at 11:00 AM at Bethel Mennonite Church. A meal at the church will follow the service. Services will be live streamed on the Inman Funeral Home Facebook page or the church website. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant View Home or Bethel Mennonite Church, both in care of Inman Funeral Home. To leave a condolence for the family, visit: <a href="http://www.inmanfh.com">www.inmanfh.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677629823140.jpeg" alt="Friesen" />
 <figcaption>Friesen</figcaption>
 </figure>Eva K. Thiessen Friesen was born on January 9, 1942. She was the youngest of eight children born to Henry D. Thiessen and Tina D. Klaassen Thiessen. Eva grew up on a farm 2.5 miles west of Inman. She attended Golden Rule Grade School through the 5th grade until the school consolidated with other small schools to become Countryside Grade School. Eva grew up in the Zoar Mennonite Church. She accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior upon confession of her faith and was baptized in Dillon Lake, Hutchinson by Reverend Arnold Ensz on August 19, 1956. Eva graduated from Inman Rural High School in 1960 and attended Sterling College for one semester then graduated from Adela Hale School of Business in Hutchinson. Her first job was as a secretary for Western and Southern Life Insurance.Eva first met Willard as a friend of Joyce, Wayne, and Paul Ensz who were good friends of the family. A few years later, Eva was a 7th grader with Willard at Countryside Grade School. During this year, Willard gave Eva his 6th grade school picture signed “Love, Willard” in red ink. Eva still had this picture. Eva married Willard Friesen on September 16, 1962 at Bethel Mennonite Church. She transferred her membership to Bethel and remained a member until death. Eva taught Sunday School classes, a Wednesday night class, and sang in the church choir. She was also a member of the Homesteaders EHU.Willie and Eva lived in Hutchinson when their first son, Jeff was born in 1964. Scott was born in 1967. Later that year, they built their first home on 44th street in Hutchinson and lived there for six years. Eva worked nights for three years at First National Bank during this time. Willie was a car salesman at Davis Child in Hutchinson. In 1973, Willie took a job at Reimer Ford in McPherson and the family moved to Inman where they built a home that they lived in until Eva moved to the estates at Pleasant View Home in 2020.Eva started working for Penner Feed and Supply as a bookkeeper in 1979 and was there for ten years. She then worked as the Inman City Clerk for 23 years until she retired in 2012. After that, Eva was a volunteer Treasurer for the Inman Senior Center. She loved going to the Harvest Cafe for coffee with her friends. This group was very important to her, especially after Willie passed away. Willie and Eva enjoyed friendships with other couples they had grown up with in school and church. Weekends were spent at Kanapolis Lake with these couples. This was a special bond and all of the couples ended up being married for fifty years or more. Willie and Eva almost made it to fifty-three and Willie was the first to break that circle with his death in 2015.Willie and Eva especially enjoyed attending sporting events that their boys were involved in. Both of the boys made them proud. They both came back to Inman after college and married wonderful girls. They lived three and five blocks from Willie and Eva. There are five grandsons that they were so proud of: Jake, Jason, Jared, Justin, and Jordan. They also were able to enjoy watching them participate in sports and other school events.After retirement, Willie and Eva were able to take trips by car and that was something that they loved to do. They also had many memories from trips to Cancun, Hawaii, Alaska, and many other vacations. A quote from Eva: “We had trials and illnesses, but God saw us through. To God be the glory!”.Proceeding Eva in death were her husband, Willie, her parents: Mr. and Mrs. H.D. Thiessen; Willie’s parents: Martin and Ruth Friesen; Sister, Lilly Ann Pankratz and husband Emerson; Brothers, Phil Thiessen and wife Alma, Clarence Thiessen and wife Helen; Ben Thiessen and wife Stella; Leo Thiessen and wife Pat; Brother in-law Jim Stephens; Nephew Greg Thiessen; Niece Janet ThiessenSurvivors; Jeff and wife Nancy Friesen, Inman; Scott and wife Peggy Friesen, Inman, Sister Sophia Stephens, Inman; Brother Bruce Thiessen and wife Verbie, Inman. Sister in-laws Ann Snyder, Inman and KayLee Thiessen, Denver, CO. Grandsons: Jake Friesen and wife Rebecca, St. Louis, MO; Jason Friesen, Emporia, KS; Jared Friesen, Taiwan; Justin Friesen and wife Krystan, Inman; Jordan Friesen, Manhattan, KS. Nieces and Nephews; Lois, Lyle, Amy, Julie, Diane, Lisa, Tami, Dave, Jennifer, and April and many more relatives and friends.Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 3, 2023, at Bethel Mennonite Church, with the family present. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 4, 2023, at North Inman Cemetery. Celebration of Life Services will follow at 11:00 AM at Bethel Mennonite Church. A meal at the church will follow the service. Services will be live streamed on the Inman Funeral Home Facebook page or the church website. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant View Home or Bethel Mennonite Church, both in care of Inman Funeral Home. To leave a condolence for the family, visit: <a href="http://www.inmanfh.com">www.inmanfh.com</a>.

Eva K. Thiessen Friesen |1942-2023|

Matthew Gerard “Matt” Schrock, 56, died February 25, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson.&nbsp; He was born July 20, 1966, in Hutchinson, to Gene Allen and Mary Ellen (Egbert) Schrock.

Matt graduated from Trinity Catholic High School in 1985, and Hutchinson Community College in 1987.&nbsp; He worked as an electrician for Arconic.&nbsp; Matt enjoyed cooking, riding his motorcycle, and being in good company with friends. However, his favorite times were when he was with his family.&nbsp; From coaching his four children as youngsters in sports, cheering them on from the stands as they became older, to trips to the lake where they would go boating and hiking, family time meant everything to Matt.&nbsp; He was a member of St. Teresa Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus #612.

On January 4, 1992, he married Angella Melland, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Hutchinson. &nbsp;

Matt is survived by:&nbsp; his wife of 31 years, Angella of Hutchinson; children, Joe Schrock (Kassidy) of Wichita, Madison Schrock of Salt Lake City, UT, Elizabeth Schrock and Hannah Schrock, both of Hutchinson; mother, Mary Ellen Schrock; sister, Ann Schrock, both of Hutchinson; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father and a brother, Mark Allen Schrock.

Parish Rosary will be 7:00 p.m. Monday, March 6, 2023, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, 211 E. 5th&nbsp;Avenue, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631 Independence Road, Hutchinson, with Father Aaron Spexarth officiating both the Parish Rosary and Mass.&nbsp; Friends may call from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday and 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Cancer Council of Reno County, Trinity Catholic Jr./Sr. High School (to benefit the science department), or Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67501.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677597167630.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Matthew Gerard “Matt” Schrock, 56, died February 25, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson.&nbsp; He was born July 20, 1966, in Hutchinson, to Gene Allen and Mary Ellen (Egbert) Schrock.Matt graduated from Trinity Catholic High School in 1985, and Hutchinson Community College in 1987.&nbsp; He worked as an electrician for Arconic.&nbsp; Matt enjoyed cooking, riding his motorcycle, and being in good company with friends. However, his favorite times were when he was with his family.&nbsp; From coaching his four children as youngsters in sports, cheering them on from the stands as they became older, to trips to the lake where they would go boating and hiking, family time meant everything to Matt.&nbsp; He was a member of St. Teresa Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus #612.On January 4, 1992, he married Angella Melland, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Hutchinson. &nbsp;Matt is survived by:&nbsp; his wife of 31 years, Angella of Hutchinson; children, Joe Schrock (Kassidy) of Wichita, Madison Schrock of Salt Lake City, UT, Elizabeth Schrock and Hannah Schrock, both of Hutchinson; mother, Mary Ellen Schrock; sister, Ann Schrock, both of Hutchinson; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.He was preceded in death by his father and a brother, Mark Allen Schrock.Parish Rosary will be 7:00 p.m. Monday, March 6, 2023, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, 211 E. 5th&nbsp;Avenue, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631 Independence Road, Hutchinson, with Father Aaron Spexarth officiating both the Parish Rosary and Mass.&nbsp; Friends may call from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday and 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Cancer Council of Reno County, Trinity Catholic Jr./Sr. High School (to benefit the science department), or Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67501.&nbsp;

Matthew Gerard “Matt” Schrock |1966-2023|

The first NJCAA Division I Softball regular-season rankings were released on Monday and the Hutchinson Community College softball team added a doubleheader for Tuesday at Fun Valley.

The Blue Dragons (10-3) dropped three spots from the preseason NJCAA Rankings to No. 20 in the first regular-season poll of the season.

Also on Monday, after losing four games on the schedule last week to the Bethany College JV and Hesston College, the Blue Dragons&nbsp;&nbsp;have added a doubleheader with the Sterling College Junior Varsity at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday at Fun Valley.

Both games will be streamed on the Blue Dragon Sports Network beginning at 1:15 p.m.

The Blue Dragons have now been ranked in nine-straight NJCAA polls dating back to last season. The Dragons started the 2023 season ranked No. 17 in the preseason rankings.

The three games the Blue Dragons have lost this season have been to a Division I Team receiving votes in Eastern Oklahoma State and the NJCAA Division II-No. 1-ranked team in Murray State.

With the addition of the Sterling JV games, the Blue Dragons will play six games this week.

Hutchinson opens Jayhawk Conference play on Wednesday at Colby and then plays No. 17 Butler at 1 and 3 p.m. on Saturday in the conference home opener.

HutchCC Sports InformationThe first NJCAA Division I Softball regular-season rankings were released on Monday and the Hutchinson Community College softball team added a doubleheader for Tuesday at Fun Valley.The Blue Dragons (10-3) dropped three spots from the preseason NJCAA Rankings to No. 20 in the first regular-season poll of the season.Also on Monday, after losing four games on the schedule last week to the Bethany College JV and Hesston College, the Blue Dragons&nbsp;&nbsp;have added a doubleheader with the Sterling College Junior Varsity at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday at Fun Valley.Both games will be streamed on the Blue Dragon Sports Network beginning at 1:15 p.m.The Blue Dragons have now been ranked in nine-straight NJCAA polls dating back to last season. The Dragons started the 2023 season ranked No. 17 in the preseason rankings.The three games the Blue Dragons have lost this season have been to a Division I Team receiving votes in Eastern Oklahoma State and the NJCAA Division II-No. 1-ranked team in Murray State.With the addition of the Sterling JV games, the Blue Dragons will play six games this week.Hutchinson opens Jayhawk Conference play on Wednesday at Colby and then plays No. 17 Butler at 1 and 3 p.m. on Saturday in the conference home opener.

🥎 Dragon SB in rankings, adds Tues. DH

Bill C. Romig, 84, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away Thursday, February 23, 2023 at Ascension Via Christi Village in Wichita. He was born February 20, 1939 in Hutchinson, the son of Carlyle Henry and Neva Fern (Carmichael) Romig. He graduated from Haven High School with the class of 1957. Bill later graduated from Hutchinson Community College in 1959, and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Petroleum Geology from Wichita State University in 1962. He was united in marriage to Karen E. Edwards on February 7, 1959 in Mt. Hope. Bill was a lifelong farmer and longtime petroleum geologist. Bill enjoyed watching all of his grandkids' and great-grandkids’ sports and activities. He loved dancing with Karen and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was loved and respected by not only the whole family but all of their friends. He is survived by his wife, Karen; great-granddaughters, Taylor and Addi Fiola of the home; six grandchildren, Luke, Kara, Katie, Cassie, Bailey and Tucker; three daughters, Penny (Eric) Powell, Debby (Mike) Williams, and Cindy (Rick) Horton; ten other great-grandchildren, Brylee, Jersie, Davin, Tate, Jase, Asa, Madden, Vivian, Adam, and Shylee; brother, Ray (Merrill) Romig; sister, Kay Smyth; dogs, Polly and Pearl; and several nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; and grandson, Jake Sagerty. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at Laurel Cemetery, 5395 E Greenfield Rd, Haven, KS. Following the service, friends are invited to the Community Building at Pioneer Park in Haven for fellowship from 2 to 4 p.m. Later, friends are invited to Bill and Karen’s home to share memories. Family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, February 27, at Ott Funeral Home, 102 N Wichita, Haven, KS. Memorial contributions may be made to Haven High School Scholarship Fund in care of Ott Funeral Home, PO Box 217, Haven, KS 67543.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bill C. Romig, 84, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away Thursday, February 23, 2023 at Ascension Via Christi Village in Wichita. He was born February 20, 1939 in Hutchinson, the son of Carlyle Henry and Neva Fern (Carmichael) Romig. He graduated from Haven High School with the class of 1957. Bill later graduated from Hutchinson Community College in 1959, and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Petroleum Geology from Wichita State University in 1962. He was united in marriage to Karen E. Edwards on February 7, 1959 in Mt. Hope. Bill was a lifelong farmer and longtime petroleum geologist. Bill enjoyed watching all of his grandkids' and great-grandkids’ sports and activities. He loved dancing with Karen and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was loved and respected by not only the whole family but all of their friends. He is survived by his wife, Karen; great-granddaughters, Taylor and Addi Fiola of the home; six grandchildren, Luke, Kara, Katie, Cassie, Bailey and Tucker; three daughters, Penny (Eric) Powell, Debby (Mike) Williams, and Cindy (Rick) Horton; ten other great-grandchildren, Brylee, Jersie, Davin, Tate, Jase, Asa, Madden, Vivian, Adam, and Shylee; brother, Ray (Merrill) Romig; sister, Kay Smyth; dogs, Polly and Pearl; and several nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; and grandson, Jake Sagerty. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at Laurel Cemetery, 5395 E Greenfield Rd, Haven, KS. Following the service, friends are invited to the Community Building at Pioneer Park in Haven for fellowship from 2 to 4 p.m. Later, friends are invited to Bill and Karen’s home to share memories. Family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, February 27, at Ott Funeral Home, 102 N Wichita, Haven, KS. Memorial contributions may be made to Haven High School Scholarship Fund in care of Ott Funeral Home, PO Box 217, Haven, KS 67543.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bill C. Romig |1939-2023|

MIDWEST CITY, Oklahoma – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team’s late rally wasn’t enough as Rose State College scored three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning to defeat the Blue Dragons 9-6 on Saturday afternoon.

The Blue Dragons trailed 4-2 and 6-3 and tied the game at 6-all with a three-run top of the eighth. But the Raiders took advantage of three walks and a balk in the bottom of the eight to claim the series 2-1.

The Blue Dragons are now 7-5 to start the season. Hutchinson travels to Northern Oklahoma-Enid on Tuesday in a single nine-inning game. Rose State is 12-4.

The Blue Dragons out-hit Rose State 12-10 in the third game of the series.

Sophomore right-fielder Will Edmunson extended his hitting streak to 12 games to start the season by going 2 for 4 with a double, run scored and an RBI. He doubled home a run in the top of the first to give the Dragons an early 1-0 lead.

Freshman shortstop Cooper Wesslund was 2 for 4 with a double and two runs scored.

Sophomore Braedyn Sommer and Christian Powell both went 2 for 4. Powell doubled home a run in the Dragon eighth inning.

Rose State first baseman Luke Cummins was 4 for 4 with an RBI double, two-run triple and five RBIs.

Six Blue Dragon pitchers walked a combined seven Rose State batters. Cole Toreau (0-3) was the losing pitcher with 1 1-3 innings in relief.

Trailing 6-3 entering the eighth inning, Ryan Henderson and Sommer led off the inning with singles and moved up to second and third on a wild pitch. Jackson Young’s groundout scored Henderson to make it 6-4. Sommer scored on a wild pitch to make it 6-5. After Jack Gardner walked and Powell doubled, Blake Bradford’s groundout scored Gardner tied the game at 6-6.

The Blue Dragons left 10 runners on base.

MIDWEST CITY, Oklahoma – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team’s late rally wasn’t enough as Rose State College scored three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning to defeat the Blue Dragons 9-6 on Saturday afternoon.The Blue Dragons trailed 4-2 and 6-3 and tied the game at 6-all with a three-run top of the eighth. But the Raiders took advantage of three walks and a balk in the bottom of the eight to claim the series 2-1.The Blue Dragons are now 7-5 to start the season. Hutchinson travels to Northern Oklahoma-Enid on Tuesday in a single nine-inning game. Rose State is 12-4.The Blue Dragons out-hit Rose State 12-10 in the third game of the series.Sophomore right-fielder Will Edmunson extended his hitting streak to 12 games to start the season by going 2 for 4 with a double, run scored and an RBI. He doubled home a run in the top of the first to give the Dragons an early 1-0 lead.Freshman shortstop Cooper Wesslund was 2 for 4 with a double and two runs scored.Sophomore Braedyn Sommer and Christian Powell both went 2 for 4. Powell doubled home a run in the Dragon eighth inning.Rose State first baseman Luke Cummins was 4 for 4 with an RBI double, two-run triple and five RBIs.Six Blue Dragon pitchers walked a combined seven Rose State batters. Cole Toreau (0-3) was the losing pitcher with 1 1-3 innings in relief.Trailing 6-3 entering the eighth inning, Ryan Henderson and Sommer led off the inning with singles and moved up to second and third on a wild pitch. Jackson Young’s groundout scored Henderson to make it 6-4. Sommer scored on a wild pitch to make it 6-5. After Jack Gardner walked and Powell doubled, Blake Bradford’s groundout scored Gardner tied the game at 6-6.The Blue Dragons left 10 runners on base.

⚾ Dragons drop series finale at Rose State

Jenee Clarise Enochs, 67, of McPherson, KS, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, surrounded by family at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; Aside from being a homemaker, Jenee was a daycare provider and worked in food service at McPherson College and at McPherson Hospital.

Jenee was born on May 11, 1955, in McPherson, KS, the daughter of Martin and Verneta (Koehn) Yost.&nbsp; She graduated from Canton-Galva High School in 1973 and continued her education at Salt City Business College in Hutchinson.&nbsp; On September 11, 1976, Jenee was united in marriage to Craig C. Enochs in McPherson, KS.&nbsp; This union was blessed with two daughters, Alisa and Heather.

She was a longtime member of Harmony Christian Church, McPherson.

Survivors include: her loving husband of 46 years, Craig of the home; daughters, Alisa (Daniel) Butler of Grundy Center, IA and Heather Enochs of Colorado Springs, CO; granddaughters, Abigail and Ellie Butler; twin sister, Renee (Randy) Carlson of McPherson, KS; brother, Mike (Jonette) Yost of Hutchinson, KS; nieces &amp; nephews, David Yost, Nicholas Yost, Ryan Carlson, Rachelle McAlexander, and Rustin Carlson; and many more extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at Stockham Family Funeral Home.&nbsp; The funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Wednesday, March 1, at Harmony Christian Church with Rev. Troy Schroeder officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow at Crestwood Memorial Park, McPherson.

Memorial contributions may be given to Harmony Christian Church in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.

Personal condolences may be sent to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stockhamfamily.com/" target="_blank">www.stockhamfamily.com</a>.&nbsp;

Jenee Clarise Enochs, 67, of McPherson, KS, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, surrounded by family at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; Aside from being a homemaker, Jenee was a daycare provider and worked in food service at McPherson College and at McPherson Hospital.Jenee was born on May 11, 1955, in McPherson, KS, the daughter of Martin and Verneta (Koehn) Yost.&nbsp; She graduated from Canton-Galva High School in 1973 and continued her education at Salt City Business College in Hutchinson.&nbsp; On September 11, 1976, Jenee was united in marriage to Craig C. Enochs in McPherson, KS.&nbsp; This union was blessed with two daughters, Alisa and Heather.She was a longtime member of Harmony Christian Church, McPherson.Survivors include: her loving husband of 46 years, Craig of the home; daughters, Alisa (Daniel) Butler of Grundy Center, IA and Heather Enochs of Colorado Springs, CO; granddaughters, Abigail and Ellie Butler; twin sister, Renee (Randy) Carlson of McPherson, KS; brother, Mike (Jonette) Yost of Hutchinson, KS; nieces &amp; nephews, David Yost, Nicholas Yost, Ryan Carlson, Rachelle McAlexander, and Rustin Carlson; and many more extended family and friends.She was preceded in death by her parents.The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at Stockham Family Funeral Home.&nbsp; The funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Wednesday, March 1, at Harmony Christian Church with Rev. Troy Schroeder officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow at Crestwood Memorial Park, McPherson.Memorial contributions may be given to Harmony Christian Church in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.Personal condolences may be sent to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stockhamfamily.com/" target="_blank">www.stockhamfamily.com</a>.&nbsp;

Jenee Clarise Enochs |1955-2023|

Neomi Mayree (McLean) Friesen, 92, passed away February 23, 2023, at Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community, Buhler. She was born May 15, 1930, in rural Reno County, to Fargie and Eva Marie (Hirst) McLean.

Neomi graduated from Partridge High School in 1947. After graduation, she went on to Hutchinson Community College, where she was trained in nursing. Neomi began working at a young age and worked hard to provide for her children. Her favorite two jobs were at the Hutchinson Hospital nursery and Sunshine Meadows, where she could care for the precious newborns, including her granddaughter, Holly, and where she brought her happy sunshine to senior citizens.

Neomi was a member of Westbrook Baptist Church and would also have Bible studies at her home.

She married Merlin Jackson. They had two children, Merlin Leon and Marilyn Mayree. They later divorced. On May 14, 1954 she married, George Friesen. Together they raised a niece, Sherri.

Neomi is survived by: daughter, Marilyn (Vern) King of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Matt King of Hutchinson, Holly Daniels of Wichita, Justin, Taryn, and Colin Nusser, of Hutchinson; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. &nbsp;

She was preceded in death by: her parents; husband, George; son, Merlin; niece, Sherri; and brothers, Kenneth, Frederick, and Glen.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Keith Dellenbach officiating. Burial will follow in Partridge Cemetery, Partridge

Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, February 27, 2023, and Tuesday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. with family present to greet friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at Elliott Mortuary.

Memorials are suggested to Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community, Buhler, or Good Shepherd Hospice, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

The family would like to thank Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community and Good Shepherd Hospice for the excellent care provided to Neomi.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677259323905.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Neomi Mayree (McLean) Friesen, 92, passed away February 23, 2023, at Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community, Buhler. She was born May 15, 1930, in rural Reno County, to Fargie and Eva Marie (Hirst) McLean.Neomi graduated from Partridge High School in 1947. After graduation, she went on to Hutchinson Community College, where she was trained in nursing. Neomi began working at a young age and worked hard to provide for her children. Her favorite two jobs were at the Hutchinson Hospital nursery and Sunshine Meadows, where she could care for the precious newborns, including her granddaughter, Holly, and where she brought her happy sunshine to senior citizens.Neomi was a member of Westbrook Baptist Church and would also have Bible studies at her home.She married Merlin Jackson. They had two children, Merlin Leon and Marilyn Mayree. They later divorced. On May 14, 1954 she married, George Friesen. Together they raised a niece, Sherri.Neomi is survived by: daughter, Marilyn (Vern) King of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Matt King of Hutchinson, Holly Daniels of Wichita, Justin, Taryn, and Colin Nusser, of Hutchinson; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. &nbsp;She was preceded in death by: her parents; husband, George; son, Merlin; niece, Sherri; and brothers, Kenneth, Frederick, and Glen.Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Keith Dellenbach officiating. Burial will follow in Partridge Cemetery, PartridgeFriends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, February 27, 2023, and Tuesday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. with family present to greet friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at Elliott Mortuary.Memorials are suggested to Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community, Buhler, or Good Shepherd Hospice, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.The family would like to thank Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community and Good Shepherd Hospice for the excellent care provided to Neomi.

Neomi Mayree (McLean) Friesen |1930-2023|

MIDWEST CITY, Okla. — Hutchinson Community College baseball team and Rose State College will conclude their three game series on Saturday at 1 p.m.

The forecast high in Midwest City, Oklahoma today is just 28 degrees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677155580308.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon Baseball image.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon Baseball image.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>MIDWEST CITY, Okla. — Hutchinson Community College baseball team and Rose State College will conclude their three game series on Saturday at 1 p.m.The forecast high in Midwest City, Oklahoma today is just 28 degrees.

⚾ HutchCC will wrap up series Sat.

Frank Lynn Bean, 72, died unexpectedly February 20, 2023.&nbsp; He was born July 14, 1950, in Hutchinson, to Frank Buford and Betty Berniece (Gennetten) Bean.&nbsp;

Frank graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1968, Hutchinson Community Junior College in 1970, Pittsburg State University in 1972, and received his Master’s Degree from Emporia State University in 1978.&nbsp; Frank was a passionate coach who lived and breathed coaching.&nbsp; He enjoyed all types of sports, but helping athletes excel in football was his favorite.&nbsp; Above all, Frank loved his family unconditionally.&nbsp;

Frank’s coaching career started June 1978 when he was the assistant football coach at San Francisco State University, until January 1982.&nbsp; He continued coaching in various locations and for multiple teams in the USFL, Los Angeles, CA, and at Hutchinson High School.&nbsp; Frank then began his coaching career at Garden City Community College and Garden City High School.&nbsp; While coaching at Garden City High School, he was fortunate to coach his two sons, Mitchell and Braden.&nbsp; Frank ended his coaching career at Wichita East High School and Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School, Wichita.

Frank grew up at First United Methodist Church, Hutchinson, and was currently attending Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson.&nbsp; He had a strong faith, and a stronger sense of humor.

Frank is survived by:&nbsp; daughter, Ashlee (Jose) Guillen of Hutchinson; sons, Mitchell Bean of Fayetteville, AR, and Braden Bean of Austin, TX; children’s mother, Rebecca Martinez of New Braunfels, TX; his mother, Betty Bean of Lawrence; sisters, Sharie (Dave) Mueller of Oskaloosa, KS, and Cindy (James) Nelson of St. Paul, MN.; and five grandchildren, Elizae Guillen, Navaii Guillen, Audden Guillen, Brilin Guillen, and Damien Sandoval.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. March 4, 2023, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1602 N. Main, with the Reverend Dr. Kim Biery and Pastor Steve Baughan officiating. Viewing will be from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 3, 2023, with the family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Frank Bean Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67501.

In honor of Frank, casual dress and wearing your favorite sports team shirt is encouraged.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677234944283.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Frank Lynn Bean, 72, died unexpectedly February 20, 2023.&nbsp; He was born July 14, 1950, in Hutchinson, to Frank Buford and Betty Berniece (Gennetten) Bean.&nbsp;Frank graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1968, Hutchinson Community Junior College in 1970, Pittsburg State University in 1972, and received his Master’s Degree from Emporia State University in 1978.&nbsp; Frank was a passionate coach who lived and breathed coaching.&nbsp; He enjoyed all types of sports, but helping athletes excel in football was his favorite.&nbsp; Above all, Frank loved his family unconditionally.&nbsp;Frank’s coaching career started June 1978 when he was the assistant football coach at San Francisco State University, until January 1982.&nbsp; He continued coaching in various locations and for multiple teams in the USFL, Los Angeles, CA, and at Hutchinson High School.&nbsp; Frank then began his coaching career at Garden City Community College and Garden City High School.&nbsp; While coaching at Garden City High School, he was fortunate to coach his two sons, Mitchell and Braden.&nbsp; Frank ended his coaching career at Wichita East High School and Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School, Wichita.Frank grew up at First United Methodist Church, Hutchinson, and was currently attending Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson.&nbsp; He had a strong faith, and a stronger sense of humor.Frank is survived by:&nbsp; daughter, Ashlee (Jose) Guillen of Hutchinson; sons, Mitchell Bean of Fayetteville, AR, and Braden Bean of Austin, TX; children’s mother, Rebecca Martinez of New Braunfels, TX; his mother, Betty Bean of Lawrence; sisters, Sharie (Dave) Mueller of Oskaloosa, KS, and Cindy (James) Nelson of St. Paul, MN.; and five grandchildren, Elizae Guillen, Navaii Guillen, Audden Guillen, Brilin Guillen, and Damien Sandoval.He was preceded in death by his father.Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. March 4, 2023, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1602 N. Main, with the Reverend Dr. Kim Biery and Pastor Steve Baughan officiating. Viewing will be from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 3, 2023, with the family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Frank Bean Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67501.In honor of Frank, casual dress and wearing your favorite sports team shirt is encouraged.

Frank Lynn Bean |1950-2023|

Because of predicted wet weather this weekend in Oklahoma, the Hutchinson Community College baseball team and Rose State College have altered their scheduled weekend three-game series in Midwest City, Oklahoma.

The Blue Dragons and Raiders, will now play a doubleheader on Thursday, February 23 and a single game on Friday, February 24.

Game times on Thursday are 1 and 3:30 p.m. and Friday's game is scheduled for 1 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677155580308.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon Baseball moving Rose State Series up" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon Baseball moving Rose State Series up</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationBecause of predicted wet weather this weekend in Oklahoma, the Hutchinson Community College baseball team and Rose State College have altered their scheduled weekend three-game series in Midwest City, Oklahoma.The Blue Dragons and Raiders, will now play a doubleheader on Thursday, February 23 and a single game on Friday, February 24.Game times on Thursday are 1 and 3:30 p.m. and Friday's game is scheduled for 1 p.m.

⚾ Blue Dragon Baseball moves series vs Rose State up a day

WICHITA, Kan.-The Wichita Sky Kings will make their 2023 season debut as one of the newest franchises of The Basketball League (TBL) March 3rd on the road against the Southeast Texas Panthers whose home base is located in Beaumont, Texas.

The newest Pro Basketball Wichita franchise is part of the Central division of the TBL.&nbsp;The Sky Kings is the latest venture from businessman Ben Hamd and his wife Lydia, who have investments in Wichita. Hamd is trying to generate interest in the newest pro team in Wichita. He is offering competitive pay to attract qualified pros and he has already rented out and paid for an entire season’s worth of games for the team to play at Koch Arena, which will be an outstanding venue for The Basketball League. 

The Sky Kings will be coached by Sean Flynn, the former Pratt Community College Coach who coached the Beavers in the KJCCC from 2018-2021. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Researching every player on Wichita’s roster you will notice that each player has made at least 40% of their 3-pointers at some level, whether it was in college or in the professional ranks. &nbsp;Flynn's contacts at the&nbsp;colleges have helped him land some of the top shooters available in the country.

One example is Charlie Marquardt, a former Division 2 sharpshooter who hit 14 3-pointers in a game in TBL play last season, Kam Williams, a 2018 Ohio State graduate who averaged 17.1 points in Denmark last year, and Matt Cerruti, a recent Albany grad who made 45% of his 3-pointers and averaged 11.3 points last season. Other Wichita Sky Kings signings include veteran point guard Derrick Colter, a 4-year starter at Duquesne who has played overseas in Portugal, France, Ukraine and Switzerland, Jachai Simmons, a 6-7 swing man in the TBL last season&nbsp;averaged 21 points per game, Julian Winton, a 2018 Tabor College graduate who averaged 25 points in the TBL last season, and Damari Milstead, who just finished his college career by averaging 12.1 points at Cal State Fullerton.

A very familiar name to local fans is Teddy Allen, who starred last season at New Mexico State, where he scored 37 points to lead the Aggies to an NCAA tournament upset over Connecticut. Allen also spent a year redshirting with the Wichita State Shockers, but never played for the team. Allen helped recruit two other former Aggies in Terrell Brown, a guard who shot 43% on threes in a season and was a former all-WAC player, and Johnny McCants, a 6-foot-7 forward who was an all-WAC defensive team player under former WSU assistant, Chris Jans last season.

 The team is currently conducting two-a-day practices at Calvary Church on Rock Road in Wichita. The Sky Kings will play in two scrimmages before the season and they hope to make an addition or two when the NBA G-League season is completed.

The Sky Kings will debut in Wichita on March 17 at 7 p.m. at Koch Arena versus the Shreveport, Louisiana Mavericks. All road and home games will be streamed the the <a href="https://tbltv.tv/SkyKings">TBL.TV Network</a>&nbsp;which is a pay-per-view network. EAGLE Media Hutchinson's Sports Director Glen Grunwald will provide play-by-play for the Sky Kings home games assisted by Landon Wiseley, providing color analysis.

Season tickets are $99 for all 13 home games and all seats are general admission. All kids 10 years old and younger get in absolutely free.

Hamd promises a very entertaining family experience similar to many NBA arenas throughout the nation. For more information, go to <a href="http://wichitaskykings.com">www.wichitaskykings.com</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677110606850.jpeg" alt="Wichita Sky Kings&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Wichita Sky Kings&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>GLEN GRUNWALD Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan.-The Wichita Sky Kings will make their 2023 season debut as one of the newest franchises of The Basketball League (TBL) March 3rd on the road against the Southeast Texas Panthers whose home base is located in Beaumont, Texas.The newest Pro Basketball Wichita franchise is part of the Central division of the TBL.&nbsp;The Sky Kings is the latest venture from businessman Ben Hamd and his wife Lydia, who have investments in Wichita. Hamd is trying to generate interest in the newest pro team in Wichita. He is offering competitive pay to attract qualified pros and he has already rented out and paid for an entire season’s worth of games for the team to play at Koch Arena, which will be an outstanding venue for The Basketball League. The Sky Kings will be coached by Sean Flynn, the former Pratt Community College Coach who coached the Beavers in the KJCCC from 2018-2021. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Researching every player on Wichita’s roster you will notice that each player has made at least 40% of their 3-pointers at some level, whether it was in college or in the professional ranks. &nbsp;Flynn's contacts at the&nbsp;colleges have helped him land some of the top shooters available in the country.One example is Charlie Marquardt, a former Division 2 sharpshooter who hit 14 3-pointers in a game in TBL play last season, Kam Williams, a 2018 Ohio State graduate who averaged 17.1 points in Denmark last year, and Matt Cerruti, a recent Albany grad who made 45% of his 3-pointers and averaged 11.3 points last season. Other Wichita Sky Kings signings include veteran point guard Derrick Colter, a 4-year starter at Duquesne who has played overseas in Portugal, France, Ukraine and Switzerland, Jachai Simmons, a 6-7 swing man in the TBL last season&nbsp;averaged 21 points per game, Julian Winton, a 2018 Tabor College graduate who averaged 25 points in the TBL last season, and Damari Milstead, who just finished his college career by averaging 12.1 points at Cal State Fullerton.A very familiar name to local fans is Teddy Allen, who starred last season at New Mexico State, where he scored 37 points to lead the Aggies to an NCAA tournament upset over Connecticut. Allen also spent a year redshirting with the Wichita State Shockers, but never played for the team. Allen helped recruit two other former Aggies in Terrell Brown, a guard who shot 43% on threes in a season and was a former all-WAC player, and Johnny McCants, a 6-foot-7 forward who was an all-WAC defensive team player under former WSU assistant, Chris Jans last season. The team is currently conducting two-a-day practices at Calvary Church on Rock Road in Wichita. The Sky Kings will play in two scrimmages before the season and they hope to make an addition or two when the NBA G-League season is completed.The Sky Kings will debut in Wichita on March 17 at 7 p.m. at Koch Arena versus the Shreveport, Louisiana Mavericks. All road and home games will be streamed the the <a href="https://tbltv.tv/SkyKings">TBL.TV Network</a>&nbsp;which is a pay-per-view network. EAGLE Media Hutchinson's Sports Director Glen Grunwald will provide play-by-play for the Sky Kings home games assisted by Landon Wiseley, providing color analysis.Season tickets are $99 for all 13 home games and all seats are general admission. All kids 10 years old and younger get in absolutely free.Hamd promises a very entertaining family experience similar to many NBA arenas throughout the nation. For more information, go to <a href="http://wichitaskykings.com">www.wichitaskykings.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 New pro basketball team's season opener is March 3rd

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Prior to speaking at the <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/7fae41db-df10-493b-9f98-10e0803b5ed6">42nd Ray and Stella Dillon Lecture Series</a> at Hutchinson Community College on Feb. 21, NASA veteran and STEM ambassador Ginger Kerrick answered questions about herself and her career at a press conference.&nbsp;

Kerrick is now a member of the Board of Regents for the Texas Tech system. Since retiring from NASA, she now works for woman-owned aerospace company, Barrios Technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked if she thought more funding should be allocated to overall space efforts in the U.S., Kerrick said she was satisfied with what was already available.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I actually think we're doing pretty well on the amount of funding that the federal government does give us, both to NASA and to stimulate the commercial spaceflight industry,” Kerrick said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kerrick said there is funding being allocated to help start different companies in the spaceflight industry. She believes one of the reasons the money from that funding is put to good use is because she sees the benefits from those investments. An example being figuring out how to keep astronauts viable on long term missions.&nbsp;

“On Earth you see that because we have to do that and because we've invested funds in that, now there's different treatments for osteoporosis or different treatments for ailments for people on the ground,” Kerrick said.&nbsp; “If you go to ISS Benefits for Humanity, that's the International Space Station Benefits for Humanity, you'll get to see all those. I just wish that NASA would advertise that.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

To encourage interest in NASA and space as possible careers, Kerrick recommends the <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/stem" target="_blank">STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) section at the NASA website</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;“It's got information for educators and it's broken down by level so that they can at least provide information for teachers to go off and include that in the classroom,” Kerrick said. “And there's a lot of outreach. When I worked for NASA, I did a lot of outreach at the different schools, and they encouraged that they have outreach programs at each one of the NASA centers where people can request a speaker, including astronauts.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kerrick, who was&nbsp;the first female Hispanic flight director in the history of NASA when she earned the title in 2005, believes the more that kids see people from their hometowns or people that look like them, the more it will resonate and encourage a career choice.&nbsp;

Kerrick grew up competing, as she played basketball at a high level when she was young.

“I always loved to play ball,” Kerrick said. “My dad bought me a basketball when I was five, and I wanted to go play in a league.” &nbsp;

Unfortunately for a young&nbsp;Kerrick, there were no basketball leagues for little girls. She said her father took her&nbsp;to the YMCA, where she was able to join a&nbsp;boys league. &nbsp;

She made the girls basketball team in middle school and played in high school. When she&nbsp;graduated high school, Kerrick was named Female Athlete of the Year for the City of El Paso.&nbsp; An injury while at the&nbsp;University of Texas El Paso changed her path. &nbsp;

“I had an academic scholarship there and then I went through all preseason training and I was ready,” Kerrick said.&nbsp;“And two days before the first game, I'm going in for a layup and this girl undercuts me and I tumble and I try to get up and I can't and I look and my kneecap is on the side.” &nbsp;

After hearing and disliking the doctor’s recommendation for treatment, Kerrick decided to focus on her dreams of being an astronaut and moved on to Texas Tech. Occasionally she would play intramurals at Texas Tech, but didn't play on their team.&nbsp;Kerrick said her dream to work for NASA began the same time, at age five, as her basketball dreams, when she read a book called ‘Astronomy and Astronauts.’ &nbsp;

She eventually joined a co-op program with NASA through Texas Tech&nbsp;

“Unfortunately, I was 19 and it was my first semester away from home and I was not as focused as I probably should have been and I partied my little patootie off and I spent way too much time in the rec center and not in class,” Kerrick said. &nbsp;

After raising her GPA, she was able to get&nbsp;into NASA on a summer internship, but not on a co-op. Eventually, with help from her internship’s boss, she was able to&nbsp;co-op with NASA.&nbsp;

“NASA was supposed to give me a permanent job when I graduate,” Kerrick said. “Two months before graduation, I get a letter that says, 'we regret to inform you, but NASA has put a hiring freeze on all civil servants', so we won't be able to offer you a job when you graduate.” &nbsp;

Throughout the hiring freeze, Kerrick would call NASA every Friday at 1 p.m. &nbsp;from Texas Tech University to inquire about the status of the hiring freeze.&nbsp;Eventually, her persistence and dedication won out and she was able to be hired after the hiring freeze.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I&nbsp;was happy that I was persistent and because I loved my career,” Kerrick said. &nbsp;

When asked how she thought her career has impacted young Hispanic people and other people of color, especially young women, Kerrick said she believes she has helped people. &nbsp;

“You know, when I was growing up, and this is contrary to what people today growing up look for, I&nbsp;didn't want to see anybody that looked like me because that would mean that somebody that was like me already did it and I wanted to be the first, and so I don't need to see somebody that looks like me,” Kerrick said. “I don't, but there's a whole generation of people that do. So if I can be that person for someone, awesome sauce.” &nbsp;

Kerrick said she would like to see people being more independent thinkers. Regardless, she said she is happy to be an inspiration.&nbsp;

Kerrick cited experiencing her father’s death when she was a child as a great source of her resiliency throughout her life and career. She applied this resiliency to when she experienced the Space Shuttle&nbsp;Columbia disaster in 2003. &nbsp;

“I was in Mission Control,” Kerrick said.&nbsp;“There are two separate Mission Controls. There is a shuttle Mission Control and there's a space station Mission Control. I was in the space station.” &nbsp;

Columbia did not visit the space station, Kerrick explained, but the day before she&nbsp;had arranged a ship-to-ship communication.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Because I'm like, ‘I got friends in a shuttle in space, I got friends in a space station in space, they should chat and have dinner,’” Kerrick said. “So I set up this thing and they chatted and had dinner, and so the space station crew knew the shuttle was up there, and they knew that they were meeting.” &nbsp;

That day, Kerrick was working on&nbsp;things for the space station crew and knew the shuttle was supposed to land. &nbsp;

“But I had punched off the loop because I was busy, and then I start to hear mumblings in the room and I punched back on the loop and I turn on my TV, and I can hear ‘Scorch,’ he has a real name, Charlie Hobaugh, on the Capcom calling out to the crew,” Kerrick said. &nbsp;“Then I looked on CNN and I started seeing what the rest of the world was seeing,”&nbsp;

Throughout the disaster, Kerrick maintained her constitution as she communicated with the space station crew. &nbsp;

“That communication is open for the world to hear,” Kerrick explained. “You have to know where to look, but it's open for the world to hear. It goes to our visitor center. If I had responded, his [Hobaugh] reaction would have been out there for all of the general public and I didn't want that to happen.” &nbsp;

While keeping herself controlled, Kerrick said she privatized communication with the space station and described everything she was seeing on the television the day of the Columbia disaster.&nbsp;

“Everything I was hearing on the loops, and I looked up at the clock, and I'm like, ’oh my God, it's like 35 minutes until we lose signal,’ so I kept this going for 35 minutes, Kerrick said. &nbsp;

After handling the disaster so far with poise from Mission Control, Kerrick left her&nbsp;station to go to the restroom. &nbsp;

“I just stood there in front of the sink and I wanted to throw up and I wanted to cry because those are my friends, but I looked at my watch and I thought I can cry for two minutes and then I got to get back in there,” Kerrick said. “Because if I had lost it in Mission Control, everybody's going to lose it in Mission Control and we can't have that. We've got... we've got to focus on our mission.” &nbsp;

Kerrick allowed herself to cry for two minutes before going back to finish her shift.&nbsp;

“I think the fact that I had experienced what I experienced with my dad and being able to have so many opportunities since then to have bad events happen and not emotionally react to them really served me well in that role,” Kerrick said. “I'm glad I was there.” &nbsp;

As of Feb. 1, 2023, it has been 20 years since the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Now in her current career, Kerrick is passionately stringent about the safety of aerospace technology so as to not see a repeat of the Challenger or Columbia disasters. &nbsp;

“'We've been OK in the past.’ I don't like to hear that now with these new programs,” Kerrick said.&nbsp;“So, I'm not going to accept that because I don't. No one should feel that.” &nbsp;

This led into Kerrick’s thoughts on the space endeavors of other companies.&nbsp;

“You said Tesla. Elon Musk launched that car he had not cleared that with [the FAA],” Kerrick said. &nbsp;

She explained when someone is&nbsp;flying aircraft, the FAA regulates who can take off when so as to not cause accidents above the ground. &nbsp;

“You need to regulate when you're launching stuff so that you don't bump into space debris, you don't bump into other satellites, you don't bump into space stations, and that one was not regulated,” Kerrick said. “And if that launch had gone poorly, it could have damaged certain things that could have fallen on people. Since then, he has learned to follow these space traffic rules, but the Tesla thing in particular, I'm like ‘no.’” &nbsp;

Kerrick said she would like to see companies like Tesla design a lunar rover that is Tesla, as space programs need things like that.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Toyota right now is partnering with one of these companies to build a rover, and I thought, ‘oh cool, okay, that might, you know, come back and help us have really neat old cars in the future that can fly,” Kerrick said. “Amazon with Bezos and Blue Origin, great. I think it's great all these people, the Virgin Galactic, Voyager Space, Intuitive Machines, Axiom, there's all these different companies that are out there building their own private space station.” &nbsp;

Kerrick applauded Intuitive Machines, who just went public. Intuitive Machines is building a lunar lander that will deliver supplies to the moon, and students from San Jacinto Community College are building it.&nbsp;

She said these companies are coming up with innovative money-saving ideas because they are budget constrained. &nbsp;

“Elon, when he figured out how to bring the rockets back, you saved 60% of the costs of a launch by bringing those rockets back,” Kerrick said. “NASA wouldn't have come up with that idea because NASA has different expectations with the government funds and can't take these high-risk things. So, it's great that all these commercial industries are doing that.”&nbsp;

The company that Kerrick works for now, Barrios Technology, has people who have been supporting the government for the last 42 years. &nbsp;

“We have expertise in systems engineering, systems integration, mission operations, and so we are reaching out to these companies, ‘let us help you because I know you can't afford to have a permanent staff for missions that only fly once a year,’ Kerrick explained. “Use my folks and let us help take our lessons, learn from the government and help you, because I want them to succeed.” &nbsp;

Kerrick sees their success as maybe helping her fullfill her dream.

“It'll be...it'll be really cool if more people can go to space and maybe then I can go to space at that point too. So, a little teeny weeny selfish reason.” &nbsp;

2023 is the 42nd season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. For more information on the Dillon Lecture Series or to become a patron, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>&nbsp;or call Becky Rogers at 620-665-3505.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677039386332.jpeg" alt="Ginger Kerrick kicks off the 42nd season of the Ray and Stella Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community College. [Photo: Judd Weil]" />
 <figcaption>Ginger Kerrick kicks off the 42nd season of the Ray and Stella Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community College. [Photo: Judd Weil]</figcaption>
 </figure>JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Prior to speaking at the <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/7fae41db-df10-493b-9f98-10e0803b5ed6">42nd Ray and Stella Dillon Lecture Series</a> at Hutchinson Community College on Feb. 21, NASA veteran and STEM ambassador Ginger Kerrick answered questions about herself and her career at a press conference.&nbsp;Kerrick is now a member of the Board of Regents for the Texas Tech system. Since retiring from NASA, she now works for woman-owned aerospace company, Barrios Technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;When asked if she thought more funding should be allocated to overall space efforts in the U.S., Kerrick said she was satisfied with what was already available.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I actually think we're doing pretty well on the amount of funding that the federal government does give us, both to NASA and to stimulate the commercial spaceflight industry,” Kerrick said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kerrick said there is funding being allocated to help start different companies in the spaceflight industry. She believes one of the reasons the money from that funding is put to good use is because she sees the benefits from those investments. An example being figuring out how to keep astronauts viable on long term missions.&nbsp;“On Earth you see that because we have to do that and because we've invested funds in that, now there's different treatments for osteoporosis or different treatments for ailments for people on the ground,” Kerrick said.&nbsp; “If you go to ISS Benefits for Humanity, that's the International Space Station Benefits for Humanity, you'll get to see all those. I just wish that NASA would advertise that.”&nbsp;&nbsp;To encourage interest in NASA and space as possible careers, Kerrick recommends the <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/stem" target="_blank">STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) section at the NASA website</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“It's got information for educators and it's broken down by level so that they can at least provide information for teachers to go off and include that in the classroom,” Kerrick said. “And there's a lot of outreach. When I worked for NASA, I did a lot of outreach at the different schools, and they encouraged that they have outreach programs at each one of the NASA centers where people can request a speaker, including astronauts.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Kerrick, who was&nbsp;the first female Hispanic flight director in the history of NASA when she earned the title in 2005, believes the more that kids see people from their hometowns or people that look like them, the more it will resonate and encourage a career choice.&nbsp;Kerrick grew up competing, as she played basketball at a high level when she was young.“I always loved to play ball,” Kerrick said. “My dad bought me a basketball when I was five, and I wanted to go play in a league.” &nbsp;Unfortunately for a young&nbsp;Kerrick, there were no basketball leagues for little girls. She said her father took her&nbsp;to the YMCA, where she was able to join a&nbsp;boys league. &nbsp;She made the girls basketball team in middle school and played in high school. When she&nbsp;graduated high school, Kerrick was named Female Athlete of the Year for the City of El Paso.&nbsp; An injury while at the&nbsp;University of Texas El Paso changed her path. &nbsp;“I had an academic scholarship there and then I went through all preseason training and I was ready,” Kerrick said.&nbsp;“And two days before the first game, I'm going in for a layup and this girl undercuts me and I tumble and I try to get up and I can't and I look and my kneecap is on the side.” &nbsp;After hearing and disliking the doctor’s recommendation for treatment, Kerrick decided to focus on her dreams of being an astronaut and moved on to Texas Tech. Occasionally she would play intramurals at Texas Tech, but didn't play on their team.&nbsp;Kerrick said her dream to work for NASA began the same time, at age five, as her basketball dreams, when she read a book called ‘Astronomy and Astronauts.’ &nbsp;She eventually joined a co-op program with NASA through Texas Tech&nbsp;“Unfortunately, I was 19 and it was my first semester away from home and I was not as focused as I probably should have been and I partied my little patootie off and I spent way too much time in the rec center and not in class,” Kerrick said. &nbsp;After raising her GPA, she was able to get&nbsp;into NASA on a summer internship, but not on a co-op. Eventually, with help from her internship’s boss, she was able to&nbsp;co-op with NASA.&nbsp;“NASA was supposed to give me a permanent job when I graduate,” Kerrick said. “Two months before graduation, I get a letter that says, 'we regret to inform you, but NASA has put a hiring freeze on all civil servants', so we won't be able to offer you a job when you graduate.” &nbsp;Throughout the hiring freeze, Kerrick would call NASA every Friday at 1 p.m. &nbsp;from Texas Tech University to inquire about the status of the hiring freeze.&nbsp;Eventually, her persistence and dedication won out and she was able to be hired after the hiring freeze.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I&nbsp;was happy that I was persistent and because I loved my career,” Kerrick said. &nbsp;When asked how she thought her career has impacted young Hispanic people and other people of color, especially young women, Kerrick said she believes she has helped people. &nbsp;“You know, when I was growing up, and this is contrary to what people today growing up look for, I&nbsp;didn't want to see anybody that looked like me because that would mean that somebody that was like me already did it and I wanted to be the first, and so I don't need to see somebody that looks like me,” Kerrick said. “I don't, but there's a whole generation of people that do. So if I can be that person for someone, awesome sauce.” &nbsp;Kerrick said she would like to see people being more independent thinkers. Regardless, she said she is happy to be an inspiration.&nbsp;Kerrick cited experiencing her father’s death when she was a child as a great source of her resiliency throughout her life and career. She applied this resiliency to when she experienced the Space Shuttle&nbsp;Columbia disaster in 2003. &nbsp;“I was in Mission Control,” Kerrick said.&nbsp;“There are two separate Mission Controls. There is a shuttle Mission Control and there's a space station Mission Control. I was in the space station.” &nbsp;Columbia did not visit the space station, Kerrick explained, but the day before she&nbsp;had arranged a ship-to-ship communication.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Because I'm like, ‘I got friends in a shuttle in space, I got friends in a space station in space, they should chat and have dinner,’” Kerrick said. “So I set up this thing and they chatted and had dinner, and so the space station crew knew the shuttle was up there, and they knew that they were meeting.” &nbsp;That day, Kerrick was working on&nbsp;things for the space station crew and knew the shuttle was supposed to land. &nbsp;“But I had punched off the loop because I was busy, and then I start to hear mumblings in the room and I punched back on the loop and I turn on my TV, and I can hear ‘Scorch,’ he has a real name, Charlie Hobaugh, on the Capcom calling out to the crew,” Kerrick said. &nbsp;“Then I looked on CNN and I started seeing what the rest of the world was seeing,”&nbsp;Throughout the disaster, Kerrick maintained her constitution as she communicated with the space station crew. &nbsp;“That communication is open for the world to hear,” Kerrick explained. “You have to know where to look, but it's open for the world to hear. It goes to our visitor center. If I had responded, his [Hobaugh] reaction would have been out there for all of the general public and I didn't want that to happen.” &nbsp;While keeping herself controlled, Kerrick said she privatized communication with the space station and described everything she was seeing on the television the day of the Columbia disaster.&nbsp;“Everything I was hearing on the loops, and I looked up at the clock, and I'm like, ’oh my God, it's like 35 minutes until we lose signal,’ so I kept this going for 35 minutes, Kerrick said. &nbsp;After handling the disaster so far with poise from Mission Control, Kerrick left her&nbsp;station to go to the restroom. &nbsp;“I just stood there in front of the sink and I wanted to throw up and I wanted to cry because those are my friends, but I looked at my watch and I thought I can cry for two minutes and then I got to get back in there,” Kerrick said. “Because if I had lost it in Mission Control, everybody's going to lose it in Mission Control and we can't have that. We've got... we've got to focus on our mission.” &nbsp;Kerrick allowed herself to cry for two minutes before going back to finish her shift.&nbsp;“I think the fact that I had experienced what I experienced with my dad and being able to have so many opportunities since then to have bad events happen and not emotionally react to them really served me well in that role,” Kerrick said. “I'm glad I was there.” &nbsp;As of Feb. 1, 2023, it has been 20 years since the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.&nbsp; &nbsp;Now in her current career, Kerrick is passionately stringent about the safety of aerospace technology so as to not see a repeat of the Challenger or Columbia disasters. &nbsp;“'We've been OK in the past.’ I don't like to hear that now with these new programs,” Kerrick said.&nbsp;“So, I'm not going to accept that because I don't. No one should feel that.” &nbsp;This led into Kerrick’s thoughts on the space endeavors of other companies.&nbsp;“You said Tesla. Elon Musk launched that car he had not cleared that with [the FAA],” Kerrick said. &nbsp;She explained when someone is&nbsp;flying aircraft, the FAA regulates who can take off when so as to not cause accidents above the ground. &nbsp;“You need to regulate when you're launching stuff so that you don't bump into space debris, you don't bump into other satellites, you don't bump into space stations, and that one was not regulated,” Kerrick said. “And if that launch had gone poorly, it could have damaged certain things that could have fallen on people. Since then, he has learned to follow these space traffic rules, but the Tesla thing in particular, I'm like ‘no.’” &nbsp;Kerrick said she would like to see companies like Tesla design a lunar rover that is Tesla, as space programs need things like that.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Toyota right now is partnering with one of these companies to build a rover, and I thought, ‘oh cool, okay, that might, you know, come back and help us have really neat old cars in the future that can fly,” Kerrick said. “Amazon with Bezos and Blue Origin, great. I think it's great all these people, the Virgin Galactic, Voyager Space, Intuitive Machines, Axiom, there's all these different companies that are out there building their own private space station.” &nbsp;Kerrick applauded Intuitive Machines, who just went public. Intuitive Machines is building a lunar lander that will deliver supplies to the moon, and students from San Jacinto Community College are building it.&nbsp;She said these companies are coming up with innovative money-saving ideas because they are budget constrained. &nbsp;“Elon, when he figured out how to bring the rockets back, you saved 60% of the costs of a launch by bringing those rockets back,” Kerrick said. “NASA wouldn't have come up with that idea because NASA has different expectations with the government funds and can't take these high-risk things. So, it's great that all these commercial industries are doing that.”&nbsp;The company that Kerrick works for now, Barrios Technology, has people who have been supporting the government for the last 42 years. &nbsp;“We have expertise in systems engineering, systems integration, mission operations, and so we are reaching out to these companies, ‘let us help you because I know you can't afford to have a permanent staff for missions that only fly once a year,’ Kerrick explained. “Use my folks and let us help take our lessons, learn from the government and help you, because I want them to succeed.” &nbsp;Kerrick sees their success as maybe helping her fullfill her dream.“It'll be...it'll be really cool if more people can go to space and maybe then I can go to space at that point too. So, a little teeny weeny selfish reason.” &nbsp;2023 is the 42nd season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. For more information on the Dillon Lecture Series or to become a patron, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>&nbsp;or call Becky Rogers at 620-665-3505.<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;

Kerrick looks back at life and career with NASA

Back-to-back double-doubles, including just the second 20-20 game in Blue Dragon women's basketball history, propelled Hutchinson Community College freshman forward&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/duffy_monae_4kqq">Monae Duffy</a>&nbsp;to her first Jayhawk Conference Division I Women's Basketball Player of the Week award on Tuesday.

The 5-foot-11 freshman from Lafayette, Louisiana had 19 points and 14 rebounds in an 80-41 victory against Colby last Tuesday. She the carried the Blue Dragons to a big home victory over Northwest Tech and a career-high 25 points and 20 rebounds, her second 20-rebound game of the season.

Duffy joins Ariella McGhee as the only players in Blue Dragon women's history to have 20 points and 20 rebounds in a single game. Duffy now owns 2 of the 5 all-time 20-rebound games in team history. 'For the week, Duffy averaged 22.0 points and 17.0 rebounds while shooting 52.8 percent from the field. She also averaged 2.5 steals, 2.0 assists and 1.5 blocked shots.

This is the third time a Blue Dragon player has won a conference player of the week award this season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/williams_mya_wx3b">Mya Williams</a>&nbsp;has won the award twice this season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677067377173.jpeg" alt="Monae Duffy names KJCCC Player of the Week" />
 <figcaption>Monae Duffy names KJCCC Player of the Week</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationBack-to-back double-doubles, including just the second 20-20 game in Blue Dragon women's basketball history, propelled Hutchinson Community College freshman forward&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/duffy_monae_4kqq">Monae Duffy</a>&nbsp;to her first Jayhawk Conference Division I Women's Basketball Player of the Week award on Tuesday.The 5-foot-11 freshman from Lafayette, Louisiana had 19 points and 14 rebounds in an 80-41 victory against Colby last Tuesday. She the carried the Blue Dragons to a big home victory over Northwest Tech and a career-high 25 points and 20 rebounds, her second 20-rebound game of the season.Duffy joins Ariella McGhee as the only players in Blue Dragon women's history to have 20 points and 20 rebounds in a single game. Duffy now owns 2 of the 5 all-time 20-rebound games in team history. 'For the week, Duffy averaged 22.0 points and 17.0 rebounds while shooting 52.8 percent from the field. She also averaged 2.5 steals, 2.0 assists and 1.5 blocked shots.This is the third time a Blue Dragon player has won a conference player of the week award this season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/williams_mya_wx3b">Mya Williams</a>&nbsp;has won the award twice this season.

🏀 HutchCC's Monae Duffy named KJCCC Player of the Week

Blue Dragon batters smacked four home runs and Blue Dragon pitchers allowed a combined three hits and struck out a combined 18 batters as the Hutchinson Community College baseball team returned to Hobart-Detter Field with a sweep of the Tabor College JV on Tuesday at Hobart-Detter Field.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/bradford_blake_qa9v">Blake Bradford</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/edmunson_will_rdcc">Will Edmunson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/mustow_adam_9ls4">Adam Mustow</a>&nbsp;each hit home runs to lead the Blue Dragons to a 12-1 victory in five innings in Game 1. Bradford then went 3 for 4 with a leadoff home run to finished off a 10-0 victory in Game 2, also in five innings.

The Blue Dragons are now 6-3 overall. Hutchinson plays a three-game series at Rose State this weekend in Midwest City, Oklahoma.

Bradford had a huge day, going a combined 5 of 6 with two home runs, a double, four RBIs and four runs scored. He extended his hitting streak to nine games.

The pitching staff had plenty of run support against the Blue Jays.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wilson_rece_a6ap">Rece Wilson</a>, Derrick Johnson and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/bell_brady_igns">Brady Bell</a>&nbsp;combined for a two-hit shutout while striking out 12.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/neill_bradley_p7ny">Bradley Neill</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/holstein_carter_56qv">Carter Holstein</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wickersham_kaden_64wc">Kaden Wickersham</a>&nbsp;allowed only one hit in Game 2.

GAME 1 RECAP Tabor scored the first run of the game on an RBI groundout in the top of the second inning, but the Blue Dragons responded with five runs in the second inning and seven more runs in the third.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wesslund_cooper_zdq0">Cooper Wesslund</a>&nbsp;immediately grabbed the lead for the Dragons with a two-run single in the second inning to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/young_jackson_pkgv">Jackson Young</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/mustow_adam_9ls4">Adam Mustow</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/davis_jon_ucpo">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;scored on a wild pitch to make it 3-0.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/gardner_jack_8lt5">Jack Gardner</a>&nbsp;had an RBI groundout before Bradford hit a solo homer to cap the Dragons five-run second inning.

Mustow hit his first home run as a Blue Dragon, a two-run shot to center field in the third inning. Bradford later had a two-run single and Edmunson followed that with a three-run home run, his third of the season, to left field to cap a seven-run inning for a 12-1 lead.

Wilson (1-0) earned the win in his first career start. He threw two inning and allowed two hits and a run with two strikeouts. Johnson struck out five in two innings. Bell struck out the side in the top of the fifth.

The Blue Dragons had nine total hits with four extra-base hits.

Bradford was 2 of 2 with a walk, two runs scored a homer and three RBIs to lead the Blue Dragons. Gardner was 2 for 3 with an RBI and a run scored.

Edmunson also had three RBIs. Mustow and Wesslund had two RBIs each.

GAME 2 RECAP The Blue Dragons scored at least one run in each of their five offensive innings and collected 12 total hits.

Bradford went 3 for and hit for three-fourths of the cycle with a single, double and home run.

Mustow went 3 for 3 with a single, double and triple, driving in two runs with a two-run double in the Dragons' three-run first.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/davis_jon_ucpo">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;tripled in going 2 for 3 with an RBI.

The Dragons had three triples in the game, tying for the third-most triples in single-game Blue Dragon history.

Neill made his first career start and earned the pitching victory. Neill pitched three innings. He struck out four and allowed just one hit.

Holstein worked a 1-2-3 fourth inning with a strikeout. Wickersham struck out the side in the fifth inning.

Edmundson singled in the first inning to extend his hitting streak to nine games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677067095579.jpeg" alt="Will Edmundson hit one of the Blue Dragons' four home runs on Tuesday as the Dragons swept the Tabor College JV 12-1 and 10-0. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information) " />
 <figcaption>Will Edmundson hit one of the Blue Dragons' four home runs on Tuesday as the Dragons swept the Tabor College JV 12-1 and 10-0. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information) </figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationBlue Dragon batters smacked four home runs and Blue Dragon pitchers allowed a combined three hits and struck out a combined 18 batters as the Hutchinson Community College baseball team returned to Hobart-Detter Field with a sweep of the Tabor College JV on Tuesday at Hobart-Detter Field.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/bradford_blake_qa9v">Blake Bradford</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/edmunson_will_rdcc">Will Edmunson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/mustow_adam_9ls4">Adam Mustow</a>&nbsp;each hit home runs to lead the Blue Dragons to a 12-1 victory in five innings in Game 1. Bradford then went 3 for 4 with a leadoff home run to finished off a 10-0 victory in Game 2, also in five innings.The Blue Dragons are now 6-3 overall. Hutchinson plays a three-game series at Rose State this weekend in Midwest City, Oklahoma.Bradford had a huge day, going a combined 5 of 6 with two home runs, a double, four RBIs and four runs scored. He extended his hitting streak to nine games.The pitching staff had plenty of run support against the Blue Jays.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wilson_rece_a6ap">Rece Wilson</a>, Derrick Johnson and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/bell_brady_igns">Brady Bell</a>&nbsp;combined for a two-hit shutout while striking out 12.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/neill_bradley_p7ny">Bradley Neill</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/holstein_carter_56qv">Carter Holstein</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wickersham_kaden_64wc">Kaden Wickersham</a>&nbsp;allowed only one hit in Game 2.GAME 1 RECAP Tabor scored the first run of the game on an RBI groundout in the top of the second inning, but the Blue Dragons responded with five runs in the second inning and seven more runs in the third.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/wesslund_cooper_zdq0">Cooper Wesslund</a>&nbsp;immediately grabbed the lead for the Dragons with a two-run single in the second inning to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/young_jackson_pkgv">Jackson Young</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/mustow_adam_9ls4">Adam Mustow</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/davis_jon_ucpo">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;scored on a wild pitch to make it 3-0.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/gardner_jack_8lt5">Jack Gardner</a>&nbsp;had an RBI groundout before Bradford hit a solo homer to cap the Dragons five-run second inning.Mustow hit his first home run as a Blue Dragon, a two-run shot to center field in the third inning. Bradford later had a two-run single and Edmunson followed that with a three-run home run, his third of the season, to left field to cap a seven-run inning for a 12-1 lead.Wilson (1-0) earned the win in his first career start. He threw two inning and allowed two hits and a run with two strikeouts. Johnson struck out five in two innings. Bell struck out the side in the top of the fifth.The Blue Dragons had nine total hits with four extra-base hits.Bradford was 2 of 2 with a walk, two runs scored a homer and three RBIs to lead the Blue Dragons. Gardner was 2 for 3 with an RBI and a run scored.Edmunson also had three RBIs. Mustow and Wesslund had two RBIs each.GAME 2 RECAP The Blue Dragons scored at least one run in each of their five offensive innings and collected 12 total hits.Bradford went 3 for and hit for three-fourths of the cycle with a single, double and home run.Mustow went 3 for 3 with a single, double and triple, driving in two runs with a two-run double in the Dragons' three-run first.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/bios/davis_jon_ucpo">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;tripled in going 2 for 3 with an RBI.The Dragons had three triples in the game, tying for the third-most triples in single-game Blue Dragon history.Neill made his first career start and earned the pitching victory. Neill pitched three innings. He struck out four and allowed just one hit.Holstein worked a 1-2-3 fourth inning with a strikeout. Wickersham struck out the side in the fifth inning.Edmundson singled in the first inning to extend his hitting streak to nine games.

⚾ Blue Dragons take a pair of run-rule wins from Blue Jays

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/munson_emily_vjqm">Emily Munson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/pennycuff_morgan_4wht">Morgan Pennycuff</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/wertz_riley_hm55">Riley Wertz</a>&nbsp;combined to toss back-to-back shutouts in the Hutchinson Community College softball team's 2023 home opener on Tuesday against Labette.

Munson and Wertz combined to throw a four-hit shutout on a 7-0 victory in Game 1. Pennycuff and Wertz also combined on a four-hit shutout and the Dragons exploded for nine runs over the final three innings in a 9-0 five-inning run-rule victory in Game 2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677066879206.jpeg" alt="Preslee Irwin connects on a walk-off two-run home run in a five-run fifth inning on Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader sweep of Labette at Fun Valley. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Preslee Irwin connects on a walk-off two-run home run in a five-run fifth inning on Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader sweep of Labette at Fun Valley. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports Information<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/munson_emily_vjqm">Emily Munson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/pennycuff_morgan_4wht">Morgan Pennycuff</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/wertz_riley_hm55">Riley Wertz</a>&nbsp;combined to toss back-to-back shutouts in the Hutchinson Community College softball team's 2023 home opener on Tuesday against Labette.Munson and Wertz combined to throw a four-hit shutout on a 7-0 victory in Game 1. Pennycuff and Wertz also combined on a four-hit shutout and the Dragons exploded for nine runs over the final three innings in a 9-0 five-inning run-rule victory in Game 2.The Blue Dragons improved to 10-3 overall. Hutchinson plays at the Bethany College JV on Friday and plays host to Hesston College on Saturday at Fun Valley.Making her first start since returning from an injury, Munson (1-0) tossed six scoreless innings in Game 1. She had three strikeouts and a walk while allowing four hits. Munson allowed only one runner to reach third base. Wertz then struck out the side in the fifth.Pennycuff struck out five in 4 1-3 innings. She allowed four hits and three walks. Pennycuff got out of jams in the second and fourth innings when Labette had runners at second and third with one out in each inning.With Hutchinson leading 4-0, Pennycuff (4-1) was lifted with two on and one out. Wertz got back-to-back strikeouts to end the inning and get her second save of the season and 11th of her career.GAME 1 RECAP The Blue Dragons racked up 10 hits, scoring in 4 of 6 offensive innings.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/mastin_alexis_xhvz">Alexis Mastin</a>&nbsp;led the Dragons, going 2 for 3 with a double and three RBIs.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/sandoval_olivia_qojo">Olivia Sandoval</a>&nbsp;went 2 for 3 with a run scored and an RBI.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/dougherty_ella_9103">Ella Dougherty</a>&nbsp;also went 2 for 3 with two runs scored.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/grimes_madison_371p">Madison Grimes</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 4 with a run.The Dragons took a 1-0 lead on an unearned runs in the first inning. Hutchinson's took a 3-0 lead in the third on Mastin's two-run double with two out in the third inning.Mastin singled home Grimes in the fifth for a 4-0 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/sykora_grace_dykt">Grace Sykora</a>&nbsp;had an RBI double and Sandoval singled in a run and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/goetz_aspen_qe50">Aspen Goetz</a>&nbsp;hit a sacrifice fly to give Hutchinson a 7-0 lead.GAME 2 RECAP Mastin and Sykora had two hits each to lead the Blue Dragon nine-hit attack.Mastin was 2 for 2 with a home run and two runs scored. Sykora was 2 for 3 with a double and two RBIs.Grimes had an RBI triple to set a new career record with her eighth triple and she moved within four hits of surpassing Jessica Glenn as the new all-time hits' leader in Blue Dragon history.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/irwin_preslee_8388">Preslee Irwin</a>&nbsp;was 1 for 2 with a season-high three RBIs when she hit a walk-off two-run home run in the bottom of the fifth to push the game into run-rule territory.Grimes' two-run triple in the third scored Irwin and Sandoval for a 2-0 lead.Mastin led off the fourth with her third home run of the season to make it 3-0. Irwin's groundout plated pinch-runner&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/lozoya_tamara_3twe">Tamara Lozoya</a>&nbsp;for a 4-0 lead.The Dragons loaded the bases with no outs in the bottom of the fifth. Jaleigh Darnell had an RBI groundout to score Goetz for a 5-0 lead. Sykora then doubled home Mastin and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/stipsits_allie_zmyh">Allie Stipsits</a>&nbsp;for a 7-0 lead. Irwin followed that with her first career home run, a two-run shot to left, to give the Dragons a 9-0 lead.