Author Ralph Kaminski grew up on what was and still is affectionately and respectfully known as “Polish Hill”. Kaminski’s father ran Kaminski’s Meat Market, where Ralph learned to work hard. He got married, went to business school, went into service, and ended up as a Special Agent for the United States Government. He learned many lessons, uncovered secrets, and swept the globe exposing crimes related to IRS fraud. Kaminski’s book, Follow the Money takes readers on a nostalgic journey beginning in a world filled with Schwinn bikes and ending with a near-miss meeting with Howard Hughes.
People growing up in Manitowoc and the surrounding area will find themselves taken back to the days of neighborhoods where family homes shared streets with grocery stores, drugstores, playgrounds, churches, and all the essentials needed for day to day existence. Readers will recognize establishments around town, and chuckle at the simple games kids played. War stories add solemnity to the book.
Ralph’s first Special Agent assignment found him interviewing working girls in Reno brothels. Subsequent assignments had him working with White House personnel along with other people of influence and intrigue. He was often in danger, as was his wife who, at one point, worked as an informant for him.
Kaminski will visit LaDeDa Books & Beans, 1624 New York Ave, Manitowoc on Tuesday, August 6. 6:30-7:30 for a meet and greet book signing.
