Today we’d like to introduce you to Tom Keener.
Hi Tom, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
A fourth-generation Dalla site, my great-grandmother Ida Chitwood built the Old Mill Inn at Fair Park, which is where she operated her exhibit during the 1936 Texas Centennial. That building still stands! She wrote the official Texas Centennial Cookbook. She also operated a vaudeville troupe, and I grew up listening to her recall the era when she was in showbiz. Provide an unforgettable theatrical experience was her motto! In 1927, she was featured on the front page of the Chicago Tribune. Benny Goodman and Jack Benny were among her performers.
My father served as a sound engineer and DJ during the days of live radio in the 1930s and 40s, which is where he met Governor Connally. That friendships continued until the governor died in the early 1990s. During WW2, in addition to his regular duties installing radar, he volunteered for the Armed Forces Network. Later, he worked at Texas Instruments for over 36 years, which is where I met Mayor Erik Jonsson, Eugene McDermott, and more.
In 1963, Father was waiting for the president of the United States to address the luncheon when the tragic news was announced. My mother and I were at Dallas Love Field and were among the huge jubilant crowd that greeted Mr. Kennedy. While departing from Dallas Love Field, we heard the tragic news.
The lessons that I learned from Ida and Father provided valuable input for what I do now. Above all, some of their contacts helped me obtain speakers and performers.
On an unrelated note, I have a lifelong collector of old books, manuscripts, and the like. That journey also allowed me to meet fascinating folks!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No! Performers and speakers canceled at the last minute, a few died, but it left me struggling to locate suitable replacements.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am known for offering fantastic speakers and performers.
Persistence and keen eye for locating quality acts and speakers.
I also known as a book person.
Alright, so before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
The Friends of the Allen Public Library and Allen community have been the backbone of my support.
Reaching out to me is encouraged.
Image Credits
David Small
