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 A man was killed Tuesday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash at a rural McPherson County intersection, authorities said.

The McPherson County Sheriff's Office said McPherson 911 received a report at 4:35 p.m. of a collision at 12th Avenue and Moccasin Road.

Responding deputies found a utility terrain vehicle on its side in the roadway and a Suzuki SUV in a nearby ditch.

According to the sheriff’s office, the UTV was traveling north on 12th Avenue and the SUV was heading west on Moccasin Road. Investigators determined the UTV struck the SUV in the intersection and overturned. The impact caused the UTV driver to be ejected.

The male driver of the UTV was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has not been released pending notification of family.

The female driver of the SUV was transported to McPherson Center for Health for treatment. Her condition was not immediately available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744726548319.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post A man was killed Tuesday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash at a rural McPherson County intersection, authorities said.The McPherson County Sheriff's Office said McPherson 911 received a report at 4:35 p.m. of a collision at 12th Avenue and Moccasin Road.Responding deputies found a utility terrain vehicle on its side in the roadway and a Suzuki SUV in a nearby ditch.According to the sheriff’s office, the UTV was traveling north on 12th Avenue and the SUV was heading west on Moccasin Road. Investigators determined the UTV struck the SUV in the intersection and overturned. The impact caused the UTV driver to be ejected.The male driver of the UTV was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has not been released pending notification of family.The female driver of the SUV was transported to McPherson Center for Health for treatment. Her condition was not immediately available.

McPherson County accident claims life of one

There’s a routine to spring calving season based on numbers. Once tiny hooves start hitting the cold ground, a rhythm takes over until the last mama cow has delivered her baby. Each day is different, but they’re all based on counting.

I can still picture being sandwiched in the middle of the bench seat between my grandparents as we made the rounds through pastures to check on the progress. My grandfather kept one hand on the steering wheel with a pair of binoculars ready in the other.

We would slowly roll through the field, stopping abruptly for my grandfather to take a closer look at a cow. He’d raise the binoculars and quickly read off the number on the ear tag as my grandmother dutifully recorded the information in a spiralbound notebook.

When a calf was spotted, we’d ease close enough that my grandfather could quickly get out, lasso it and tag it all while keeping an eye on the mama cow, especially if she was a first-time mother. They could get a little angsty during the ordeal.

We checked the herd five or six times each day, starting with the morning feeding and ending well past dark if weather or other circumstances demanded. The vast majority of field checks happened without incident. All the cows were readily spotted along with the same number of calves from the previous count.

The adventures started when the numbers didn’t match up. While most mothers were more than happy to show off their calf, occasionally there’d be one who had witnessed the roundup procedure and took it on herself to keep her progeny hidden. Thankfully, cows aren’t masters at hide-and-seek.

While a mama might not show off her calf, she didn’t stray far from it so a hidden calf also meant the mother was away from the herd as well. In the main calving pasture, this usually meant the pair was hunkered down near the edge of a thin stand of trees. Spotting the mom didn’t present much of a challenge, but it was incredibly easy to mistake a fallen limb for a black baldy if its white face was tucked away.

We didn’t have to assist with many births, but it was always a tense time when pulling a calf was necessary, especially if there wasn’t time to move the cow to a temporary pen. Even more rare was finding a lonesome calf rejected by its mother. I only remember a handful of calves that were brought to the barn for bottle feeding, one of which didn’t make it.

Other times calves were lost to coyotes, weather or birth defects, and a few cows succumbed to injuries sustained while giving birth. The losses were never easy to take, but they were also strong reminders of why we counted. Every cow. Every calf. Every time.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584374831676.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau&nbsp;There’s a routine to spring calving season based on numbers. Once tiny hooves start hitting the cold ground, a rhythm takes over until the last mama cow has delivered her baby. Each day is different, but they’re all based on counting.I can still picture being sandwiched in the middle of the bench seat between my grandparents as we made the rounds through pastures to check on the progress. My grandfather kept one hand on the steering wheel with a pair of binoculars ready in the other.We would slowly roll through the field, stopping abruptly for my grandfather to take a closer look at a cow. He’d raise the binoculars and quickly read off the number on the ear tag as my grandmother dutifully recorded the information in a spiralbound notebook.When a calf was spotted, we’d ease close enough that my grandfather could quickly get out, lasso it and tag it all while keeping an eye on the mama cow, especially if she was a first-time mother. They could get a little angsty during the ordeal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600284821318.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a></figcaption>
 </figure>We checked the herd five or six times each day, starting with the morning feeding and ending well past dark if weather or other circumstances demanded. The vast majority of field checks happened without incident. All the cows were readily spotted along with the same number of calves from the previous count.The adventures started when the numbers didn’t match up. While most mothers were more than happy to show off their calf, occasionally there’d be one who had witnessed the roundup procedure and took it on herself to keep her progeny hidden. Thankfully, cows aren’t masters at hide-and-seek.While a mama might not show off her calf, she didn’t stray far from it so a hidden calf also meant the mother was away from the herd as well. In the main calving pasture, this usually meant the pair was hunkered down near the edge of a thin stand of trees. Spotting the mom didn’t present much of a challenge, but it was incredibly easy to mistake a fallen limb for a black baldy if its white face was tucked away.We didn’t have to assist with many births, but it was always a tense time when pulling a calf was necessary, especially if there wasn’t time to move the cow to a temporary pen. Even more rare was finding a lonesome calf rejected by its mother. I only remember a handful of calves that were brought to the barn for bottle feeding, one of which didn’t make it.Other times calves were lost to coyotes, weather or birth defects, and a few cows succumbed to injuries sustained while giving birth. The losses were never easy to take, but they were also strong reminders of why we counted. Every cow. Every calf. Every time."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Insight on Agriculture: Counting cows

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries">Click&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners</a>.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/35522b08-cd30-49e1-93e0-85962282628b">PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NEW OBITUARY POLICY.</a> Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://hutchpost@eaglemedia.com">hutchpost@eaglemedia.com&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> </a>

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries">Click&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners</a>.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/35522b08-cd30-49e1-93e0-85962282628b">PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NEW OBITUARY POLICY.</a> Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://hutchpost@eaglemedia.com">hutchpost@eaglemedia.com&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> </a>

Recent obituaries and service times

&nbsp;U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann on Wednesday praised President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, calling it “one of the better speeches” he has heard from the president and pointing to tax cuts and border security as key priorities affecting Kansans.

Appearing on BW radio the morning after the address, Mann, who represents Kansas’ 1st Congressional District, said Trump effectively outlined what he described as major accomplishments during the first year of his second term and charted a vision for the year ahead.

“I thought it was an incredible speech,” Mann said. “He did a great job outlining the successes of the first year of his term and really charted a vision for our country this next year.”

Mann said a line that stood out to him was Trump’s assertion that he inherited “a nation in crisis” but had delivered what the president called a “turnaround for the ages.”

He also highlighted moments in which Trump recognized U.S. men’s hockey gold medal winners and awarded two Congressional Medals of Honor, calling those tributes “well deserved” and reflective of national pride.

Mann said he was surprised by what he viewed as limited bipartisan participation during portions of the speech. He pointed to a moment when Trump asked members of Congress to stand if they believed protecting American citizens is the government’s top priority.

“When you have half the chamber not willing to stand for that, that really surprised me,” Mann said, adding that the partisan divide could become one of the defining memories of the evening.

While acknowledging growing political divisions in Washington, Mann said there remain areas of bipartisan agreement. He cited support for preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and backing for the STOCK Act, legislation that would prohibit members of Congress from trading individual stocks. Mann said he is a co-sponsor of the measure.

“The most divisive issues are typically what the national media covers,” Mann said. “But there are bipartisan agreements on a whole host of issues.”

Turning to economic policy, Mann said recent federal tax changes are having a direct impact on Kansas families, farmers and small business owners. He referenced the "Working Families Tax Cuts" legislation passed last summer, which took effect Jan. 1.

According to Mann, without congressional action, Kansans would have faced an average federal income tax increase of about $2,200.

“Instead of increasing taxes, we were able to reduce taxes,” Mann said.

He pointed to provisions that lowered basic tax rates, eliminated taxes on overtime and tips, reduced taxes on Social Security income and lowered estate and capital gains taxes. Mann said those measures are particularly important in rural communities across western Kansas.

Mann represents the “Big First” District, which includes Hutchinson and much of the state.

The president’s address comes amid continued national debate over economic policy, border security and the role of government — issues Mann said remain top concerns for constituents in his district.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771987235711.png" alt="President Donald Trump during his State of the Union Address on Feb. 24, 2026 Image from CSPAN video" />
 <figcaption>President Donald Trump during his State of the Union Address on Feb. 24, 2026 Image from CSPAN video</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann on Wednesday praised President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, calling it “one of the better speeches” he has heard from the president and pointing to tax cuts and border security as key priorities affecting Kansans.Appearing on BW radio the morning after the address, Mann, who represents Kansas’ 1st Congressional District, said Trump effectively outlined what he described as major accomplishments during the first year of his second term and charted a vision for the year ahead.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753879999372.png" alt="Rep. Tracey Mann, Kansas First District" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Tracey Mann, Kansas First District</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="U.S. Tracey Mann - Kansas First District" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=dnc59-1a562a3-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>“I thought it was an incredible speech,” Mann said. “He did a great job outlining the successes of the first year of his term and really charted a vision for our country this next year.”Mann said a line that stood out to him was Trump’s assertion that he inherited “a nation in crisis” but had delivered what the president called a “turnaround for the ages.”He also highlighted moments in which Trump recognized U.S. men’s hockey gold medal winners and awarded two Congressional Medals of Honor, calling those tributes “well deserved” and reflective of national pride.Mann said he was surprised by what he viewed as limited bipartisan participation during portions of the speech. He pointed to a moment when Trump asked members of Congress to stand if they believed protecting American citizens is the government’s top priority.“When you have half the chamber not willing to stand for that, that really surprised me,” Mann said, adding that the partisan divide could become one of the defining memories of the evening.While acknowledging growing political divisions in Washington, Mann said there remain areas of bipartisan agreement. He cited support for preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and backing for the STOCK Act, legislation that would prohibit members of Congress from trading individual stocks. Mann said he is a co-sponsor of the measure.“The most divisive issues are typically what the national media covers,” Mann said. “But there are bipartisan agreements on a whole host of issues.”Turning to economic policy, Mann said recent federal tax changes are having a direct impact on Kansas families, farmers and small business owners. He referenced the "Working Families Tax Cuts" legislation passed last summer, which took effect Jan. 1.According to Mann, without congressional action, Kansans would have faced an average federal income tax increase of about $2,200.“Instead of increasing taxes, we were able to reduce taxes,” Mann said.He pointed to provisions that lowered basic tax rates, eliminated taxes on overtime and tips, reduced taxes on Social Security income and lowered estate and capital gains taxes. Mann said those measures are particularly important in rural communities across western Kansas.Mann represents the “Big First” District, which includes Hutchinson and much of the state.The president’s address comes amid continued national debate over economic policy, border security and the role of government — issues Mann said remain top concerns for constituents in his district.

Mann praises Trump’s State of the Union, highlights tax cuts

The Reno County Commission will consider a mix of routine approvals and major business items during its meeting this morning.&nbsp;

On the consent agenda, commissioners are expected to review and approve vouchers and past meeting minutes, along with multiple Community Corrections grant applications. Other items include the purchase of a vehicle for the Solid Waste Department, approval of bridge inspection services, foundation repairs for Public Works facilities, and the county’s annual noxious weed management plan and reporting requirements.

Under business items, commissioners will discuss and possibly take action on a job incentive request from Superior Holding Inc. Details of the incentive request were not immediately available in the agenda summary.

Commissioners also will address the future of the 108th Avenue Bridge over Peace Creek. The discussion could include potential repairs, replacement or other long-term options for the structure.

In addition, the board will consider approval of two grants for the Reno County Health Department through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The grants include funding for the Aid to Local (ATL) program and the Overdose Prevention Education Initiative (OPEI).

The commission will also receive the county’s annual Facilities Report.

The meeting begins at 9 a.m. in the Veteran's Room of the Reno County Courthouse. Commission meetings are open to the public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770859169312.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostThe Reno County Commission will consider a mix of routine approvals and major business items during its meeting this morning.&nbsp;On the consent agenda, commissioners are expected to review and approve vouchers and past meeting minutes, along with multiple Community Corrections grant applications. Other items include the purchase of a vehicle for the Solid Waste Department, approval of bridge inspection services, foundation repairs for Public Works facilities, and the county’s annual noxious weed management plan and reporting requirements.Under business items, commissioners will discuss and possibly take action on a job incentive request from Superior Holding Inc. Details of the incentive request were not immediately available in the agenda summary.Commissioners also will address the future of the 108th Avenue Bridge over Peace Creek. The discussion could include potential repairs, replacement or other long-term options for the structure.In addition, the board will consider approval of two grants for the Reno County Health Department through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The grants include funding for the Aid to Local (ATL) program and the Overdose Prevention Education Initiative (OPEI).The commission will also receive the county’s annual Facilities Report.The meeting begins at 9 a.m. in the Veteran's Room of the Reno County Courthouse. Commission meetings are open to the public.

Reno County Commission to consider jobs incentive, bridge future

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Matthew	James	Castleberry		2/24/2026 11:08&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation,					Probation Violation

Louis	Pina	Cabral		2/24/2026 11:49&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation

Desirae	Ann	Anderson		2/24/2026 1:15&nbsp;PM	Direct Contempt

Thaddeus	Xavier Nathanie	Krill		2/24/2026 1:50&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Leroy	Cornelius	Paige	Jr	2/24/2026 1:54&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Shaylyn	Jo	Caswell		2/24/2026 2:54&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Shaina	Rachelle	Pfenning		2/24/2026 4:11&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Tara	DeAnn	Kane		2/24/2026 7:57&nbsp;PM	Poss of marijuana,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					DL Violation; No Drivers License,					Insurance; Knowingly drive uninsured vehicle,					Registration Violation; Display or Possess a False, Cancelled, Suspended or Revoked Title, Plate, Decal, Placard

Trevor	Jon	Thomas	Jr	2/25/2026 2:25&nbsp;AM	Possess, Consume, Purchase Alcoholic Liquor/CMB by &lt;18 YOA; 1st Conviction,					Poss of marijuana; 1 prior conviction,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

Dustin	Colby	Brown		2/25/2026 2:29&nbsp;AM	Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704228649837.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————Matthew	James	Castleberry		2/24/2026 11:08&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation,					Probation ViolationLouis	Pina	Cabral		2/24/2026 11:49&nbsp;AM	Probation ViolationDesirae	Ann	Anderson		2/24/2026 1:15&nbsp;PM	Direct ContemptThaddeus	Xavier Nathanie	Krill		2/24/2026 1:50&nbsp;PM	Failure to AppearLeroy	Cornelius	Paige	Jr	2/24/2026 1:54&nbsp;PM	Probation ViolationShaylyn	Jo	Caswell		2/24/2026 2:54&nbsp;PM	Failure to AppearShaina	Rachelle	Pfenning		2/24/2026 4:11&nbsp;PM	Probation ViolationTara	DeAnn	Kane		2/24/2026 7:57&nbsp;PM	Poss of marijuana,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					DL Violation; No Drivers License,					Insurance; Knowingly drive uninsured vehicle,					Registration Violation; Display or Possess a False, Cancelled, Suspended or Revoked Title, Plate, Decal, PlacardTrevor	Jon	Thomas	Jr	2/25/2026 2:25&nbsp;AM	Possess, Consume, Purchase Alcoholic Liquor/CMB by &lt;18 YOA; 1st Conviction,					Poss of marijuana; 1 prior conviction,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human BodyDustin	Colby	Brown		2/25/2026 2:29&nbsp;AM	Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction

Daily Bookings

After 51 years in television news, longtime photojournalist Larry Hatteberg says he has witnessed a transformation in journalism that began with a single day in 1963.

Hatteberg, a veteran of KAKE-TV in Wichita, spoke during a lecture at Hutchinson Community College, reflecting on his career, the evolution of broadcast technology and what he calls the enduring responsibility of journalists to listen.

He began working at KAKE in May 1963. Five months later, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

“On that day, there was a sea change in the news business,” Hatteberg said.

Before Kennedy’s assassination, newspapers dominated the news landscape and television was often seen as secondary. But as Americans tuned in for live updates on Nov. 22, 1963, Hatteberg said it became clear that television offered something newspapers could not — immediacy.

“People found that they liked getting the news immediately,” he said. “You could feel something had changed.”

That shift, he said, contributed to the long-term decline of evening newspapers, particularly in small communities. Hatteberg lamented the disappearance of local papers, recalling a now-defunct weekly in Protection, Kansas, run by an editor who covered everything from basketball games to café conversations.

“When he died, the paper died with him,” Hatteberg said. “It’s the small communities who miss the newspaper the most.”

When Hatteberg entered the industry, television news was shot on 16-millimeter film. Cameras had no built-in recording devices, requiring photographers to carry separate equipment that could total more than 80 pounds.

“You’re hauling equipment,” he said. “I don’t miss that.”

Stories required film development before editing and airing, slowing the process considerably compared with today’s digital workflows.

Now, journalists can shoot and edit stories on smartphones or lightweight cinema cameras, often filing reports from their vehicles or coffee shops using Wi-Fi connections.

“It makes it quick,” Hatteberg said. “It also makes it quick and dirty.”

While he praised modern editing platforms such as DaVinci Resolve — widely used in both broadcast and film production — he cautioned against sacrificing craftsmanship for speed. He noted that expanding newscasts and digital demands leave reporters and photographers with little time to refine their work.

“In the afternoon, they have a 3 o’clock, 4 o’clock, 5 o’clock, 6 o’clock, 6:30 and 10,” he said. “You have to get your story ready for the web, TikTok, whatever social media is out there. Those guys are terribly busy.”

Hatteberg argued that investigative journalism in particular requires time and institutional support — something he believes has diminished in many modern newsrooms.

“If you’re going to do an investigative story right, you may need a year,” he said. “That’s tough in today’s environment.”

Despite technological advances, Hatteberg said the core of journalism remains unchanged: connecting with people.

Over decades of producing what became known as “people stories,” he developed an approach rooted in empathy. When covering tragedies, he advised journalists to approach victims first as human beings — not with cameras rolling.

“You approach them as a human being, not as a photographer,” he said. “You tell them how sorry you are.”

He discouraged the use of handheld “stick” microphones in sensitive situations, instead favoring small wireless microphones that allow subjects to forget they are being recorded.

“People are hungry for someone to listen to them,” he said. “When they know you are interested in their story, they will pour their heart out.”

Hatteberg described himself as a “medical listener,” saying some interviews required few questions once trust was established.

“I have a doctorate degree in life from the people who let me into their lives,” he said.

Hatteberg’s early years at KAKE were marked by long hours and modest pay — $1.50 an hour when he started, followed by a 5-cent raise. He often worked six-day weeks and remained on call overnight.

“I loved it,” he said. “If there was a cot in the newsroom, I’d have slept there.”

He credited mentors, including station founder Martin Umansky, with shaping his career. Umansky, who held a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri, was known for strict but constructive critiques.

“He attacked the problem, not the person,” Hatteberg said.

Throughout his tenure, Hatteberg was sent around the world to report, often traveling alone to shoot, write and file stories — saving the station the cost of sending a second employee.

He recalled filming in Tokyo inside the residence once occupied by Gen. Douglas MacArthur during the post-World War II occupation of Japan. The experience, he said, was surreal for a young man from Winfield, Kansas.

“That could only happen in the television business,” he said.

Hatteberg encouraged aspiring journalists to embrace lifelong learning.

“Your education is just starting,” he said. “If you don’t keep learning, the business will pass you by.”

Although he acknowledged mistakes and difficult moments, he said he would not trade his career for anything.

“When you look back, you just smile,” he said. “Be kind.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771424930149.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBSS Hutch PostAfter 51 years in television news, longtime photojournalist Larry Hatteberg says he has witnessed a transformation in journalism that began with a single day in 1963.Hatteberg, a veteran of KAKE-TV in Wichita, spoke during a lecture at Hutchinson Community College, reflecting on his career, the evolution of broadcast technology and what he calls the enduring responsibility of journalists to listen.He began working at KAKE in May 1963. Five months later, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.“On that day, there was a sea change in the news business,” Hatteberg said.Before Kennedy’s assassination, newspapers dominated the news landscape and television was often seen as secondary. But as Americans tuned in for live updates on Nov. 22, 1963, Hatteberg said it became clear that television offered something newspapers could not — immediacy.“People found that they liked getting the news immediately,” he said. “You could feel something had changed.”That shift, he said, contributed to the long-term decline of evening newspapers, particularly in small communities. Hatteberg lamented the disappearance of local papers, recalling a now-defunct weekly in Protection, Kansas, run by an editor who covered everything from basketball games to café conversations.“When he died, the paper died with him,” Hatteberg said. “It’s the small communities who miss the newspaper the most.”From film to digitalWhen Hatteberg entered the industry, television news was shot on 16-millimeter film. Cameras had no built-in recording devices, requiring photographers to carry separate equipment that could total more than 80 pounds.“You’re hauling equipment,” he said. “I don’t miss that.”Stories required film development before editing and airing, slowing the process considerably compared with today’s digital workflows.Now, journalists can shoot and edit stories on smartphones or lightweight cinema cameras, often filing reports from their vehicles or coffee shops using Wi-Fi connections.“It makes it quick,” Hatteberg said. “It also makes it quick and dirty.”While he praised modern editing platforms such as DaVinci Resolve — widely used in both broadcast and film production — he cautioned against sacrificing craftsmanship for speed. He noted that expanding newscasts and digital demands leave reporters and photographers with little time to refine their work.“In the afternoon, they have a 3 o’clock, 4 o’clock, 5 o’clock, 6 o’clock, 6:30 and 10,” he said. “You have to get your story ready for the web, TikTok, whatever social media is out there. Those guys are terribly busy.”Hatteberg argued that investigative journalism in particular requires time and institutional support — something he believes has diminished in many modern newsrooms.“If you’re going to do an investigative story right, you may need a year,” he said. “That’s tough in today’s environment.”A career built on listeningDespite technological advances, Hatteberg said the core of journalism remains unchanged: connecting with people.Over decades of producing what became known as “people stories,” he developed an approach rooted in empathy. When covering tragedies, he advised journalists to approach victims first as human beings — not with cameras rolling.“You approach them as a human being, not as a photographer,” he said. “You tell them how sorry you are.”He discouraged the use of handheld “stick” microphones in sensitive situations, instead favoring small wireless microphones that allow subjects to forget they are being recorded.“People are hungry for someone to listen to them,” he said. “When they know you are interested in their story, they will pour their heart out.”Hatteberg described himself as a “medical listener,” saying some interviews required few questions once trust was established.“I have a doctorate degree in life from the people who let me into their lives,” he said.Hard work and mentorshipHatteberg’s early years at KAKE were marked by long hours and modest pay — $1.50 an hour when he started, followed by a 5-cent raise. He often worked six-day weeks and remained on call overnight.“I loved it,” he said. “If there was a cot in the newsroom, I’d have slept there.”He credited mentors, including station founder Martin Umansky, with shaping his career. Umansky, who held a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri, was known for strict but constructive critiques.“He attacked the problem, not the person,” Hatteberg said.Throughout his tenure, Hatteberg was sent around the world to report, often traveling alone to shoot, write and file stories — saving the station the cost of sending a second employee.He recalled filming in Tokyo inside the residence once occupied by Gen. Douglas MacArthur during the post-World War II occupation of Japan. The experience, he said, was surreal for a young man from Winfield, Kansas.“That could only happen in the television business,” he said.Continuing to learnHatteberg encouraged aspiring journalists to embrace lifelong learning.“Your education is just starting,” he said. “If you don’t keep learning, the business will pass you by.”Although he acknowledged mistakes and difficult moments, he said he would not trade his career for anything.“When you look back, you just smile,” he said. “Be kind.”

Larry Hatteberg reflects on 51 years in television news

LENEXA, Kan. (Feb. 23, 2026) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued a Clean Water Act order to Atlas Operating, LLC following an estimated discharge of 33,600 gallons of brine production water and crude oil that affected the Chikaskia River in south-central Kansas.

According to the EPA, the agency issued a unilateral administrative order Sunday requiring the company to complete oil cleanup efforts after the discharge entered an unnamed tributary and flowed into the Chikaskia River.

The EPA said it received notification from the National Response Center on the evening of Feb. 15 regarding a suspected discharge from an oil tank battery near Spivey, Kansas in Kingman County, Kansas. An EPA on-scene coordinator was dispatched that evening and arrived the following morning to assess the situation.

EPA and local and state partners observed impacts extending approximately 12 river miles downstream from the tank battery. The agency said it immediately began working with the responsible party to strengthen containment efforts and prepare for oil recovery and cleanup operations.

Under the order, Atlas Operating has been directed to:

The EPA said it will ensure the company meets required deliverables outlined in the order and completes the work by March 13, 2026.

Discharges of oil and hazardous substances from onshore facilities are regulated under the Clean Water Act, as amended by the Oil Pollution Act.

The EPA’s Region 7 office, based in Lenexa, Kansas, oversees environmental protection efforts in Kansas and several surrounding states.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592424714240.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostLENEXA, Kan. (Feb. 23, 2026) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued a Clean Water Act order to Atlas Operating, LLC following an estimated discharge of 33,600 gallons of brine production water and crude oil that affected the Chikaskia River in south-central Kansas.According to the EPA, the agency issued a unilateral administrative order Sunday requiring the company to complete oil cleanup efforts after the discharge entered an unnamed tributary and flowed into the Chikaskia River.The EPA said it received notification from the National Response Center on the evening of Feb. 15 regarding a suspected discharge from an oil tank battery near Spivey, Kansas in Kingman County, Kansas. An EPA on-scene coordinator was dispatched that evening and arrived the following morning to assess the situation.EPA and local and state partners observed impacts extending approximately 12 river miles downstream from the tank battery. The agency said it immediately began working with the responsible party to strengthen containment efforts and prepare for oil recovery and cleanup operations.Under the order, Atlas Operating has been directed to:<ol>
 <li>Stop the flow of oil into the unnamed tributary and the Chikaskia River.</li><li>Recover and remove oil, contaminated soils and debris in and around the immediate vicinity of the discharge.</li><li>Recover oil and oil-impacted debris along affected shorelines.</li><li>Dispose of all wastes in accordance with applicable state, federal and tribal regulations.</li>
 </ol>The EPA said it will ensure the company meets required deliverables outlined in the order and completes the work by March 13, 2026.Discharges of oil and hazardous substances from onshore facilities are regulated under the Clean Water Act, as amended by the Oil Pollution Act.The EPA’s Region 7 office, based in Lenexa, Kansas, oversees environmental protection efforts in Kansas and several surrounding states.

EPA issues clean water order in Kingman County oil discharge

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771988608874.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Doctors said Chase Kear would not survive his catastrophic head injury. Today, what doctor's called a miraculous recovery is part of the Catholic Church’s investigation into the canonization of a new saint.

During his sophomore year at Hutchinson Community College, a pole vault attempt sent Chase soaring beyond the landing pit from about 14 feet in the air.

"My legs hit the back edge of the pit, and that whiplashed my head into the ground. I fractured my skull from ear to ear across the front," Chase said. "The next day, they removed portions of my skull to allow my brain to swell, parts that were already essentially dead."

Chase was born in Hays and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School, now Holy Family Elementary, before his family relocated to Colwich for better opportunities. His father worked at the K-State Ag Research Center, and his mother taught at St. Mary Catholic School in Ellis.

Chase’s father, Paul Kear, competed in pole vault for a season at Fort Hays State University. When Chase began running track in seventh grade, he also chose to follow in his father’s footsteps and take up pole vaulting himself.

"I started when I was about 12 years old, and I actually took third at state in my senior year of high school," he said.

Chase graduated from Andale High School in 2007 and, after earning a scholarship, enrolled at Hutchinson Community College to study firefighting.

On Oct. 2, 2008, early into his second year of college at age 19, Chase’s life changed forever.

"I remember standing on the runway, bringing all my power and energy down the runway. I jumped off the ground, and the pole just slipped like butter," he said.

Chase described it as the pole overflexing, causing it to react oddly and propel him outward while he was more than a dozen feet in the air.

"I remember the thought going through my head, this could be really good or really bad. I saw the back edge of the pit coming, and I had a split second to determine how much space I had. 'Am I even going to land on the mat?'" he said. "I turned to land on my back, proper form, and then I hit my head. I saw a white flash."

In his final moments of consciousness before blacking out, Chase said he reached up to his head and felt his fractured skull shift.

A helicopter landed on the football field and airlifted him to Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. The next day, surgeons removed a third of his skull and about 10% of his frontal lobe.

Chase’s family began praying immediately after the accident. By the next morning, after doctors told them he was not expected to survive, they specifically began praying for the intercession of Fr. Emil Kapaun.

"That was just something our parish did," Paula Kear, Chase's mother, said. "We prayed before Mass for the sick to Fr. Kapaun."

<a href="https://frkapaun.org/about/">Kapaun was a Roman Catholic priest and U.S. Army chaplain born April 20, 1916 — Holy Thursday — in Pilsen</a>.&nbsp;He risked his life during the Korean War to rescue wounded soldiers and administer the sacraments on the battlefield.

Kapaun died in 1951 after being taken prisoner, where his fellow prisoners of war later credited him with saving countless lives through his leadership and example.

Before long, Chase began improving, surprising medical professionals and leaving them speechless at how he was surviving such a life-threatening injury.

"Two non-Catholic doctors, my surgeon being one of them, used the word miraculous," Chase said. "When two of the doctors who cared for me said they can't explain it, it was a miracle. That's really all I need to know."

After 19 days in the hospital, Chase entered rehabilitation, weakened but determined to recover the abilities he had lost in the accident.

"I couldn't walk... all the things we take for granted, simple things like picking up a fork, putting a bite in your mouth, and how to swallow. I had to relearn everything," he said.

After having a plate placed in his skull in December 2008, he returned to classes online in January 2009, just three months after his near-death experience, before going back to Hutchinson Community College in person the following school year.

A year and a half after his injury, Chase said he felt he had unfinished business in pole vaulting. He returned to the same spot where his life had changed forever and attempted another vault, only this time successfully completing it.

"I had to get back on the horse to prove to myself that I wasn't less the man I was before the injury. I wasn't letting anything hold me back, especially fear," Chase said.

Chase changed his major and ultimately earned an Associate of Arts degree in 2014 before transferring to FHSU that same year. He went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in communication studies with an emphasis in public relations in May 2018.

Before the accident, Chase said faith was part of his life, but afterward it became central to who he is. He added that he attended the Comeau Catholic Campus Center while at FHSU.

"Call it a renewal of spirit. My faith life is very much stronger," he said.

Chase did not return to pole vaulting during the remainder of his school years, but he did coach the sport for one season at Thomas More Prep-Marian while he was a student.

After graduating from FHSU in 2018, he worked at Spirit AeroSystems and later earned a degree in structural aircraft assembly from Wichita Area Technical College, now Wichita State University Tech.

"In summary, when it comes to schooling, I have three collegiate degrees, and I'm missing 10% of my brain. All three degrees were achieved post-injury," Chase said.

On Oct. 2, 2021, 13 years after his near-fatal accident, Chase began a new chapter when he married his wife. The couple later welcomed three sons and resides in Colwich.

However, that same week, after 70 years away, Kapaun finally returned home to Kansas.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ce615860-14d4-4772-b63d-54725b0cab5e">On March 4, 2021, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency reported that the remains of Emil Kapaun were positively identified.</a>

When the Korean War began in 1950, Kapaun was deployed to the battlefield, risking his life to help soldiers and bury the dead, all while under the threat of gunfire.

That same year, he chose to remain with wounded soldiers rather than retreat. Captured by Chinese forces, Kapaun was marched to a North Korean prison camp, where he became the spiritual and physical support for fellow prisoners.&nbsp;

In 1951, weakened by pneumonia and a blood clot, he was taken to the camp's "Death House," where he died at age 35. His fellow prisoners credited him with saving countless lives through his leadership and example.

Kapaun was named a “Servant of God,” the first step towards canonization, by the church in 1993. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/23ecf4b8-eb5e-46da-82d6-71fd76942bb2">His remains were returned to Kansas in September 2021 and were laid to rest inside the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita</a>, three days before Cahse's wedding.

"It was something I always hoped that I'd see, but I didn't know that I ever would. It seemed like such a long shot that he would ever come home," Chase said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c78f7b8d-078e-4ef3-82bf-d2e0a7eb5ca9">In February 2025, Pope Francis officially declared Emil Kapaun “Venerable,” marking the second step in the Catholic Church’s path toward sainthood.</a>

The next step is beatification, when he would be declared “Blessed,” which requires confirmation of a miracle attributed to his intercession. A second verified miracle would then be needed for canonization, after which the pope could formally declare him a saint.

"That'd be a great day," Chase said regarding Kaupan potentially being canonized. "It'd be amazing and indescribable. I don't know how to put it into words."

The Diocese of Wichita is currently providing information to the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints regarding two alleged miracles, one of which involves Chase.

While Chase was in rehab, Father John Hotze of Wichita learned of his unexplained recovery and began investigating the case before later submitting it to the dicastery.

Chase had little familiarity with Kapaun before his accident, but was first introduced to him when Kapaun’s brother, Eugene Kapaun, spoke to his eighth-grade religion class.

After the accident, Chase began looking deeper into the life of the man his parish and family were praying to for his intercession.

When surgeons removed portions of Chase’s brain, they also removed areas typically associated with the ability to draw. Below is a picture Chase completed in 57 minutes.

"It's kind of a visual representation of the miracle," Chase said.

Chase said his family has not received any recent updates on the investigation into his case. The official cause for the Sainthood of Kapaun can be followed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/fatherkapaun">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to its <a href="https://frkapaun.org/">website</a>, you can help with the canonization of Kapaun through prayer and spreading his story.

For anyone facing a life-altering challenge like his, Chase offered this advice: “Keep your faith and keep moving forward, even when you're falling 10 steps back, keep moving forward.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771624838085.jpeg" alt="Chase Kear with Fr. Emil Kapaun at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita after his remains were returned to Kansas. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Chase Kear with Fr. Emil Kapaun at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita after his remains were returned to Kansas. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostDoctors said Chase Kear would not survive his catastrophic head injury. Today, what doctor's called a miraculous recovery is part of the Catholic Church’s investigation into the canonization of a new saint.During his sophomore year at Hutchinson Community College, a pole vault attempt sent Chase soaring beyond the landing pit from about 14 feet in the air."My legs hit the back edge of the pit, and that whiplashed my head into the ground. I fractured my skull from ear to ear across the front," Chase said. "The next day, they removed portions of my skull to allow my brain to swell, parts that were already essentially dead."Chase was born in Hays and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School, now Holy Family Elementary, before his family relocated to Colwich for better opportunities. His father worked at the K-State Ag Research Center, and his mother taught at St. Mary Catholic School in Ellis.Chase’s father, Paul Kear, competed in pole vault for a season at Fort Hays State University. When Chase began running track in seventh grade, he also chose to follow in his father’s footsteps and take up pole vaulting himself."I started when I was about 12 years old, and I actually took third at state in my senior year of high school," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771624900136.jpeg" alt="Chase Kear completing a pole vault at nationals the season before his accident. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Chase Kear completing a pole vault at nationals the season before his accident. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Chase graduated from Andale High School in 2007 and, after earning a scholarship, enrolled at Hutchinson Community College to study firefighting.On Oct. 2, 2008, early into his second year of college at age 19, Chase’s life changed forever."I remember standing on the runway, bringing all my power and energy down the runway. I jumped off the ground, and the pole just slipped like butter," he said.Chase described it as the pole overflexing, causing it to react oddly and propel him outward while he was more than a dozen feet in the air."I remember the thought going through my head, this could be really good or really bad. I saw the back edge of the pit coming, and I had a split second to determine how much space I had. 'Am I even going to land on the mat?'" he said. "I turned to land on my back, proper form, and then I hit my head. I saw a white flash."In his final moments of consciousness before blacking out, Chase said he reached up to his head and felt his fractured skull shift.A helicopter landed on the football field and airlifted him to Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. The next day, surgeons removed a third of his skull and about 10% of his frontal lobe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625221240.jpeg" alt="Chase Kear in a hospital bed following his pole vault accident with part of his skull and brain removed. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Chase Kear in a hospital bed following his pole vault accident with part of his skull and brain removed. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Chase’s family began praying immediately after the accident. By the next morning, after doctors told them he was not expected to survive, they specifically began praying for the intercession of Fr. Emil Kapaun."That was just something our parish did," Paula Kear, Chase's mother, said. "We prayed before Mass for the sick to Fr. Kapaun."<a href="https://frkapaun.org/about/">Kapaun was a Roman Catholic priest and U.S. Army chaplain born April 20, 1916 — Holy Thursday — in Pilsen</a>.&nbsp;He risked his life during the Korean War to rescue wounded soldiers and administer the sacraments on the battlefield.Kapaun died in 1951 after being taken prisoner, where his fellow prisoners of war later credited him with saving countless lives through his leadership and example.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625590512.jpeg" alt="Fr. Emil Kapaun. Courtesy of Catholic Diocese of Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Fr. Emil Kapaun. Courtesy of Catholic Diocese of Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Before long, Chase began improving, surprising medical professionals and leaving them speechless at how he was surviving such a life-threatening injury."Two non-Catholic doctors, my surgeon being one of them, used the word miraculous," Chase said. "When two of the doctors who cared for me said they can't explain it, it was a miracle. That's really all I need to know."After 19 days in the hospital, Chase entered rehabilitation, weakened but determined to recover the abilities he had lost in the accident.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625289109.jpeg" alt="Chase Kear being pushed in a wheelchair after surviving his pole vaulting accident. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Chase Kear being pushed in a wheelchair after surviving his pole vaulting accident. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"I couldn't walk... all the things we take for granted, simple things like picking up a fork, putting a bite in your mouth, and how to swallow. I had to relearn everything," he said.After having a plate placed in his skull in December 2008, he returned to classes online in January 2009, just three months after his near-death experience, before going back to Hutchinson Community College in person the following school year.A year and a half after his injury, Chase said he felt he had unfinished business in pole vaulting. He returned to the same spot where his life had changed forever and attempted another vault, only this time successfully completing it."I had to get back on the horse to prove to myself that I wasn't less the man I was before the injury. I wasn't letting anything hold me back, especially fear," Chase said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625325404.jpeg" alt="Chase Kear completing a pole vault a year and a half after his near-fatal injury at Hutchinson Community College. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Chase Kear completing a pole vault a year and a half after his near-fatal injury at Hutchinson Community College. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625347413.jpeg" alt="Chase Kear at the same spot where he had his accident while wearing a helmet. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Chase Kear at the same spot where he had his accident while wearing a helmet. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Chase changed his major and ultimately earned an Associate of Arts degree in 2014 before transferring to FHSU that same year. He went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in communication studies with an emphasis in public relations in May 2018.Before the accident, Chase said faith was part of his life, but afterward it became central to who he is. He added that he attended the Comeau Catholic Campus Center while at FHSU."Call it a renewal of spirit. My faith life is very much stronger," he said.Chase did not return to pole vaulting during the remainder of his school years, but he did coach the sport for one season at Thomas More Prep-Marian while he was a student.After graduating from FHSU in 2018, he worked at Spirit AeroSystems and later earned a degree in structural aircraft assembly from Wichita Area Technical College, now Wichita State University Tech."In summary, when it comes to schooling, I have three collegiate degrees, and I'm missing 10% of my brain. All three degrees were achieved post-injury," Chase said.On Oct. 2, 2021, 13 years after his near-fatal accident, Chase began a new chapter when he married his wife. The couple later welcomed three sons and resides in Colwich.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625392079.jpeg" alt="Chase Kear, now 37 years old, with his family. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Chase Kear, now 37 years old, with his family. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>However, that same week, after 70 years away, Kapaun finally returned home to Kansas.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ce615860-14d4-4772-b63d-54725b0cab5e">On March 4, 2021, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency reported that the remains of Emil Kapaun were positively identified.</a>When the Korean War began in 1950, Kapaun was deployed to the battlefield, risking his life to help soldiers and bury the dead, all while under the threat of gunfire.That same year, he chose to remain with wounded soldiers rather than retreat. Captured by Chinese forces, Kapaun was marched to a North Korean prison camp, where he became the spiritual and physical support for fellow prisoners.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625753205.jpeg" alt="Fr. Emil Kapaun, with his hands raised, saying "The Lord be with you" before dismissing troops in mass who would cross into enemy territory in North Korea on Oct. 7, 1950. Photo by Col. Raymond Skeehan" />
 <figcaption>Fr. Emil Kapaun, with his hands raised, saying "The Lord be with you" before dismissing troops in mass who would cross into enemy territory in North Korea on Oct. 7, 1950. Photo by Col. Raymond Skeehan</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1951, weakened by pneumonia and a blood clot, he was taken to the camp's "Death House," where he died at age 35. His fellow prisoners credited him with saving countless lives through his leadership and example.Kapaun was named a “Servant of God,” the first step towards canonization, by the church in 1993. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/23ecf4b8-eb5e-46da-82d6-71fd76942bb2">His remains were returned to Kansas in September 2021 and were laid to rest inside the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita</a>, three days before Cahse's wedding."It was something I always hoped that I'd see, but I didn't know that I ever would. It seemed like such a long shot that he would ever come home," Chase said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625439743.jpeg" alt="When Fr. Emil Kapaun's remains arrived at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita, 24-hour guards were needed to watch over his casket. Chase Kear left work to do so. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>When Fr. Emil Kapaun's remains arrived at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita, 24-hour guards were needed to watch over his casket. Chase Kear left work to do so. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c78f7b8d-078e-4ef3-82bf-d2e0a7eb5ca9">In February 2025, Pope Francis officially declared Emil Kapaun “Venerable,” marking the second step in the Catholic Church’s path toward sainthood.</a>The next step is beatification, when he would be declared “Blessed,” which requires confirmation of a miracle attributed to his intercession. A second verified miracle would then be needed for canonization, after which the pope could formally declare him a saint."That'd be a great day," Chase said regarding Kaupan potentially being canonized. "It'd be amazing and indescribable. I don't know how to put it into words."The Diocese of Wichita is currently providing information to the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints regarding two alleged miracles, one of which involves Chase.While Chase was in rehab, Father John Hotze of Wichita learned of his unexplained recovery and began investigating the case before later submitting it to the dicastery.Chase had little familiarity with Kapaun before his accident, but was first introduced to him when Kapaun’s brother, Eugene Kapaun, spoke to his eighth-grade religion class.After the accident, Chase began looking deeper into the life of the man his parish and family were praying to for his intercession.When surgeons removed portions of Chase’s brain, they also removed areas typically associated with the ability to draw. Below is a picture Chase completed in 57 minutes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771625476396.jpeg" alt="A drawing of Fr. Emil Kapaun that Chase Kear drew following the removal of his frontal lobe. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A drawing of Fr. Emil Kapaun that Chase Kear drew following the removal of his frontal lobe. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's kind of a visual representation of the miracle," Chase said.Chase said his family has not received any recent updates on the investigation into his case. The official cause for the Sainthood of Kapaun can be followed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/fatherkapaun">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to its <a href="https://frkapaun.org/">website</a>, you can help with the canonization of Kapaun through prayer and spreading his story.For anyone facing a life-altering challenge like his, Chase offered this advice: “Keep your faith and keep moving forward, even when you're falling 10 steps back, keep moving forward.”

A miracle: Former HutchCC pole vaulter's survival could be part of priest's sainthood

A Reno County nonprofit that began in a janitor’s closet in the 1970s is moving into a new shared facility designed to better serve residents in need.

First Call for Help is relocating to partner with the Food Bank of Reno County, creating what leaders describe as a one-stop community hub at the food bank’s site near Fourth and Severance in Hutchinson.

“We are so excited,” said Marilyn Graham, executive director of First Call for Help. “I think this would be the answer to Susie Christopher’s dream.”

Graham credited founder Susie Christopher, who started the organization at Memorial Hall with basic hygiene supplies for struggling families. Decades later, the nonprofit operates a wide range of programs assisting Reno County residents.

The move places First Call for Help alongside the Food Bank of Reno County, allowing clients to address multiple needs in one location.

“The food bank will address food needs, and we will pick up with medication, hygiene and other basic supports,” Graham said. “It will benefit the people who need it most.”

Graham said requests for help have increased significantly in recent years, particularly for prescription medications and hygiene products. The organization now refers to its personal hygiene packages as “dignity kits.”

“People are asking, ‘Do you have soap? Do you have shampoo? Do you have deodorant?’” she said. “The request for help has doubled in the last couple of years, which is frightening.”

First Call for Help is entirely donor-funded and assists with a variety of needs, including eviction prevention, utility shutoffs, out-of-town medical travel, back-to-school supplies and holiday programs such as Teen Christmas. The organization also provides bicycles when possible and connects clients to other local resources if it cannot directly meet a need.

“If we can’t help you, we’re going to listen to your story and find out who can,” Graham said. “Everybody has a story.”

Graham has led the nonprofit for 10 years, initially serving as interim director. Before that, she spent 40 years at Lincoln Elementary School and another decade with the Hutchinson Community Foundation.

“I truly love to help people,” she said. “There are so many problems in our world. Start at home.”

She acknowledged that some residents may not see the level of need in Reno County but said many families live paycheck to paycheck and are one emergency away from financial crisis.

“They’re within 50 cents of that cusp of being considered in poverty,” Graham said. “They’re trying so hard.”

She recalled a woman the organization helped years ago who later returned to donate 49 cents — all she could spare — after finding stable employment.

“I never deposited that,” Graham said. “It’s on my desk. Every morning, the first thing I see is that 49 cents.”

Donations may be mailed to First Call for Help at P.O. Box 2203, Hutchinson. Financial gifts can be designated for specific programs. Immediate needs include hygiene items such as deodorant, shampoo and laundry detergent.

Graham encouraged residents to support local nonprofits and remain attentive to neighbors who may be struggling.

“Keep your eyes open to the need,” she said. “Find your passion and help where you can.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731617485892.jpeg" alt="First Call for Help, Inc." />
 <figcaption>First Call for Help, Inc.</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostA Reno County nonprofit that began in a janitor’s closet in the 1970s is moving into a new shared facility designed to better serve residents in need.First Call for Help is relocating to partner with the Food Bank of Reno County, creating what leaders describe as a one-stop community hub at the food bank’s site near Fourth and Severance in Hutchinson.“We are so excited,” said Marilyn Graham, executive director of First Call for Help. “I think this would be the answer to Susie Christopher’s dream.”Graham credited founder Susie Christopher, who started the organization at Memorial Hall with basic hygiene supplies for struggling families. Decades later, the nonprofit operates a wide range of programs assisting Reno County residents.The move places First Call for Help alongside the Food Bank of Reno County, allowing clients to address multiple needs in one location.“The food bank will address food needs, and we will pick up with medication, hygiene and other basic supports,” Graham said. “It will benefit the people who need it most.”A rising demand for assistanceGraham said requests for help have increased significantly in recent years, particularly for prescription medications and hygiene products. The organization now refers to its personal hygiene packages as “dignity kits.”“People are asking, ‘Do you have soap? Do you have shampoo? Do you have deodorant?’” she said. “The request for help has doubled in the last couple of years, which is frightening.”First Call for Help is entirely donor-funded and assists with a variety of needs, including eviction prevention, utility shutoffs, out-of-town medical travel, back-to-school supplies and holiday programs such as Teen Christmas. The organization also provides bicycles when possible and connects clients to other local resources if it cannot directly meet a need.“If we can’t help you, we’re going to listen to your story and find out who can,” Graham said. “Everybody has a story.”Serving the communityGraham has led the nonprofit for 10 years, initially serving as interim director. Before that, she spent 40 years at Lincoln Elementary School and another decade with the Hutchinson Community Foundation.“I truly love to help people,” she said. “There are so many problems in our world. Start at home.”She acknowledged that some residents may not see the level of need in Reno County but said many families live paycheck to paycheck and are one emergency away from financial crisis.“They’re within 50 cents of that cusp of being considered in poverty,” Graham said. “They’re trying so hard.”She recalled a woman the organization helped years ago who later returned to donate 49 cents — all she could spare — after finding stable employment.“I never deposited that,” Graham said. “It’s on my desk. Every morning, the first thing I see is that 49 cents.”How to helpDonations may be mailed to First Call for Help at P.O. Box 2203, Hutchinson. Financial gifts can be designated for specific programs. Immediate needs include hygiene items such as deodorant, shampoo and laundry detergent.Graham encouraged residents to support local nonprofits and remain attentive to neighbors who may be struggling.“Keep your eyes open to the need,” she said. “Find your passion and help where you can.”

First Call for Help making move to new location

Hutchinson Community College will host its 14th annual Pink Out basketball games Saturday, raising money for the Cancer Council of Reno County while honoring those impacted by cancer.

The Blue Dragons will face Pratt Community College, with the women’s game tipping off at 2 p.m. and the men’s game to follow. Proceeds from Pink Out T-shirt sales and donations will directly benefit the Cancer Council of Reno County.

HutchCC Athletic Director Josh Gooch said the event has become one of the department’s most meaningful traditions.

“It’s a big game for the Blue Dragons because it’s the next one on the schedule,” Gooch said. “But certainly this game is for far larger, greater things. We look forward to raising good funds and putting it to a good cause.”

Pink Out shirts are available for a suggested $10 donation at the HutchCC Sports Arena athletic office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday and during the games Saturday. Shirts are also available at Midwest Superstore. Organizers said many supporters collect a shirt each year, helping grow the fundraiser’s impact.

Funds raised go directly back into the community, according to Ashley Thompson, the Executive Director of the Cancer Council of Reno County.

“We take those funds and turn them around and directly impact our community members,” said Thompson. “Think of the things insurance does not cover — out-of-pocket expenses that are unexpected but still necessary as you’re going through treatment. We try to cover that gap.”

The event carries special significance this year for HutchCC, as longtime sports information director Steve Carpenter has been undergoing cancer treatment. Gooch said the college community has seen firsthand the importance of the council’s work.

“When it’s somebody that you work with, somebody who’s been so heavily involved in helping this event run, it hits a little closer to home,” Gooch said. “We really appreciate the Cancer Council of Reno County for what they’ve done for Steve during this time.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771947017965.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;Hutchinson Community College will host its 14th annual Pink Out basketball games Saturday, raising money for the Cancer Council of Reno County while honoring those impacted by cancer.The Blue Dragons will face Pratt Community College, with the women’s game tipping off at 2 p.m. and the men’s game to follow. Proceeds from Pink Out T-shirt sales and donations will directly benefit the Cancer Council of Reno County.HutchCC Athletic Director Josh Gooch said the event has become one of the department’s most meaningful traditions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771943987748.jpeg" alt="HutchCC Athletic Director Josh Gooch, Katie Brown and Ashley Thompson of the Cancer Council of Reno County" />
 <figcaption>HutchCC Athletic Director Josh Gooch, Katie Brown and Ashley Thompson of the Cancer Council of Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hutch CC Pink Out - Feb 24, 26" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bag5q-1a5487c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>“It’s a big game for the Blue Dragons because it’s the next one on the schedule,” Gooch said. “But certainly this game is for far larger, greater things. We look forward to raising good funds and putting it to a good cause.”Pink Out shirts are available for a suggested $10 donation at the HutchCC Sports Arena athletic office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday and during the games Saturday. Shirts are also available at Midwest Superstore. Organizers said many supporters collect a shirt each year, helping grow the fundraiser’s impact.Funds raised go directly back into the community, according to Ashley Thompson, the Executive Director of the Cancer Council of Reno County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771947212083.png" alt="You can make a donation to the Cancer Council of Reno County by using this QR code.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>You can make a donation to the Cancer Council of Reno County by using this QR code.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“We take those funds and turn them around and directly impact our community members,” said Thompson. “Think of the things insurance does not cover — out-of-pocket expenses that are unexpected but still necessary as you’re going through treatment. We try to cover that gap.”The event carries special significance this year for HutchCC, as longtime sports information director Steve Carpenter has been undergoing cancer treatment. Gooch said the college community has seen firsthand the importance of the council’s work.“When it’s somebody that you work with, somebody who’s been so heavily involved in helping this event run, it hits a little closer to home,” Gooch said. “We really appreciate the Cancer Council of Reno County for what they’ve done for Steve during this time.”Saturday’s games will also include tributes to those affected by cancer, including a video honoring former Blue Dragon Tiana Mangakahia, who later became a standout player at Syracuse University before her death from cancer.Gooch said Pink Out games have become common across the country as teams wear pink accents, jerseys and whistles to raise awareness. At HutchCC, the tradition has grown into a major community partnership involving the college, the Cancer Council of Reno County and Midwest Superstore.“We couldn’t fulfill our mission without them,” Thompson said. “They allow us to do the work that we do.”Organizers encourage fans to wear pink — or this year’s predominantly blue shirts with pink accents — and arrive early to support the cause.“There won’t be a dry eye in the house,” Gooch said. “We want to rally together — to breathe fire on wiping out cancer and supporting those navigating their trial.”