Talk20 Hutch to feature five presenters at July 25 event
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Talk20 Hutch will present its 22nd edition Friday, July 25, at 7 p.m. at the Hutchinson Public Library, featuring six community members sharing their stories through rapid-fire presentations.
The event, which occurs each January and July, allows 10 community members to show 20 images while speaking for only 20 seconds per slide. Organizers are seeking additional presenters for the upcoming gathering.
Confirmed presenters for the July 25 event include Thomas Simmons on "Turning Nightmares into Magic," Kelly Clasen on "Writing for Kids: An Author's Journey," Texas Hippie Chick on "Healing Through Art," Rachel A. Shannon on "Lions and Otters and Bison, Oh My!" Jan Steen on "Getting Hooked on Cast Iron," and Matty Mullins on "Back in Hutch and Delightfully Surprised!"
Simmons, whose presentation focuses on overcoming personal challenges, said books were always a way for him to escape hardships in the real world. He now creates stories he hopes will help others gain the same values he found in literature.
Clasen, an English professor at Hutchinson Community College, will discuss her appreciation for children's literature and her aspirations as a children's book author. She will offer a preview of her picture book "Scrappers," which will be published in 2027 by The Little Press.
Shannon, a board member of the zoo's supporting organization, will share insights about the history and operations of the Hutchinson Zoo. Her presentation will cover the zoo's unique features and the behind-the-scenes work required for excellent animal welfare and care.
Steen's presentation will cover his journey from being a cast iron cookware novice to building a collection, including his favorite pieces and restoration processes.
Mullins will share his experience moving from Kansas City back to Hutchinson, discussing how he found unexpected inspiration in his hometown after initially finding the prospect daunting. A year after returning, he will explore what he has learned and the elements that transformed the town into a place of unexpected inspiration.
The Hutchinson Public Library said the event provides "a chance to celebrate the people that make Hutchinson vibrant and inspiring" through storytelling and community connection.
Talk20 Hutch is described as "fast-paced, heartfelt, and uniquely local" with presentations covering participants' passions, perspectives and experiences. The event will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.
Community members interested in presenting can contact organizers at talk20hutch@gmail.com or visit talk20hutch.com for more information.
The Hutchinson Public Library is located at 901 N. Main St. and can be reached at 620-663-5441.
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