KANKAKEE, Ill. – On May 16th at 7:00 p.m., the Kankakee Public Library will be hosting a special event featuring producer Tom Desch. The program includes two half-hour documentaries, “Selling Happiness” and “The Lively One,” both centered around local topics and produced by Desch and fellow producer Pat Wisniewski.
“Selling Happiness” follows the Hofweber-Hammes family and their three generations of risks taken in the automotive business. The family adapted to the changing role of automobiles in American society and transformed the industry. “The Lively One” tells the story of a drag racing legend who led Ford Motor Company to national prominence during the 1960s.
After the documentaries, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and meet Tom Desch. The program is free and sponsored by the Friends of the Kankakee Public Library. The event will be held in the Library’s 4th Floor Auditorium located at 201 East Merchant Street in downtown Kankakee.
Tom Desch is a Herscher native who creates films that feature stories from the American Midwest. His previous works include “An American Home: Frank Lloyd Wright’s B. Harley Bradley House,” “Shifting Sands: On the Path to Sustainability,” and “Everglades of the North: The Story of the Grand Kankakee Marsh,” all of which have aired on PBS stations across the country.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn about local history and meet the talented producer behind these remarkable documentaries.
Contact the Kankakee Public Library for more information at 815.939.4564 option 4 or by visiting lions-online.org.
