On Thursday, June 25th, Fr. David, and three parish representatives--Farrell Pedreauville, John Holecek and Peggy Bahr--interviewed three candidates for the position of architect of St. Joseph's expansion project.  The candidates were a combined team of McPherson architect, Randy Clark, and Brett Prather of Architectural Innovations of Wichita, Dennis Smith of Law Kingdon Architects of Wichita, and Bob Faires of Howard and Helmer Architects of Wichita.

All three architects interviewed very well, and each would have served the project with their expertise. However, after hearing each presentation, the interviewing panel unanimously expressed a preference for Bob Faires of Howard and Helmer Architects.  Mr. Faires had most recently served as the lead architect for the following projects: the new grade school at Mary, Queen of the Angels Church in Ft. Scott, the new grade school and expansion of the high school at St. Mary's-Colgan schools in Pittsburg, KS, and the new Church of the Magdalen church and school in Wichita.  Along with the experience of these and many other projects, Mr. Faires also demonstrated an attention to detail in outlining his approach to the expansion and renovation work at St. Joseph's.

Moving ahead now, the goal is to finish the drawings and specifications begun, and over half way completed, by previous projectarchitect Andy Steffes.  Mr. Faires did acknowledge that this project will remain indebted to the talent and creativity of Andy Steffes and that his task will be to guide the work through to the completion of Andy's vision. Efforts will be made to put the project out to bid by
the end of August.  Please continue to make St. Joseph's expansion and renovation a regular intention of your daily prayers!