The Sedwick County Black Republican Council hosted their 8th Annual Recognition Banquet on Dec. 9 at the Mariott Hotel.

Three people were honored for their work on behalf of the Dunbar Theater rennovation. Those honored were Councilwoman Lavonta Williams, retired CEO of the Knox Center Edith Knox and former U.S. Representative Todd Tiahrt.

John Hall, director for the Wichita Housing and Community Services Department and Wichita Housing Authority was the guest speaker for the evening. Hall spoke about the strategic plan for the renovation of the Dunbar Theater and the hopes of making the area a viable arts district. He also spoke about the City’s involvement and commitment to the renovation of the Dunbar district.

Dignitaries included, Tiahrt, Congressman Ron Estes, Chairman of the Kansas Republican Party Kelly

Arnold and Chairman of the Black Republican Council Eliehue Brunson.

Emcees for the night consisted of three generations of the Cox family, matriarch Deloris Cox, her daughter-in-law Kenya Cox and her grandson Kyron Cox.