Submitted

Broadcaster, journalist and author Al Kresta will be the featured speaker at Divine Mercy Radio’s annual banquet from 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 17 in the Little Theatre of Holy Family Elementary, 1800 Milner in Hays. His talk is titled, “The Absolute Necessity of Catholic Radio.”

Kresta was a Protestant pastor when he began working in radio. His radio program “Talk from the Heart” was aired in the 1980s and 90s in the Detroit area. Questions from callers came in during the show which Kresta could not answer. In addition, Kresta’s life and spiritual journey took on a new dimension when he lost his left leg to necrotizing fasciitis, a virulent infection often referred to as “flesh-eating bacteria.” After an extended recovery, Kresta returned to broadcasting, this time as a Catholic radio broadcaster. Currently, Kresta is the host of, “Kresta in the Afternoon,” heard from 3 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday on Divine Mercy Radio, 88.1, KVDM in Hays and KRTT in Great Bend.

Tickets for the banquet are $50 and includes hors d’oeuvres with wine or beer as well a full meal and dessert. Tickets are available online at dvmercy.com, by calling the studio at 785.621.4110 or coming to Divine Mercy Radio at 108 E. 12th St. in Hays during office hours, which are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.