It’s about that time of year when folks start to post on social media asking if there is a Hutchinson fireworks show. Others will chime in and respond in a variety of ways ranging from “No, there isn’t one” to “Don’t get us started.” The truth is, the Fourth of July was once a big deal in Hutchinson.
The weeklong Hutchinson Jaycee 81st annual Water Carnival had its crowning moments Sunday night when 2023 Miss Hutchinson Lexie Fitzwater crowned her successor Avery Watzke, and Princess Montana Swaja did the honors of placing the crown on the head of Katelyn Van Marel.
Selecting a New Woman of the Year and Mr. Hutchinson is always a well-anticipated task for the vice commodore and second mate. It’s an opportunity to reflect on these outstanding individuals and their contributions to the community. This year encompassed another type of reflection that was particularly difficult for our extended Royal Families, as we grieved the loss of five past Mr. Hutchinson recipients and Woman of the Year: 2007 Marlin Torgerson, 2009 Virgil Voigt, 2014 Barbara Max, 2014 Tom “Buzz” Burich and 2021 Tim Sanken.
It’s become a tradition at the Rasmussen home to honor service. Anna served as 2009 Hutchinson Princess, and Brett was named Mr. Hutchinson in 2022. Their mom and wife, Lisa, was honored Friday night as Hutchinson Woman of the Year.
“Clancy” Kurth, the new Mr. Hutchinson, has an impressive resume of contributions to the city of Hutchinson and community involvement ranging from dedicated volunteer and local youth sports fan to active in local churches and a seasoned volunteer at local TV and radio stations with a specific interest in broadcasting youth activities, When it came time for nominations, we received many letters of recommendation with quotes such as these:
Chelsie and Alex Pietrobon have set up a GoFundMe page to help with the costs of their rare pregnancy. Find more information at: www.gofundme.