Grandfather of student at Arbury Hills School in Mokena addresses history club

MOKENA – David Blanchette recently presented his many adventures working with Illinois politicians to the History Club at Arbury Hills School.

Students learned about Blanchette's experiences with President Barack Obama, then an Illinois senator. They heard about his diving in Lake Michigan to explore sunken ships, his visit with Larry the Cable Guy and his in-depth involvement with the Lincoln Museum in Springfield Illinois.

Blanchette's grandson, Jacob Kustak, is a fourth grade student in the history club.

Blanchette was among a small group of people who planned the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois from its inception through its opening and later served as the institution's deputy director.

He most recently served as the Springfield spokesman for former Illinois Governor Pat Quinn. Blanchette was a long-time Illinois history spokesman for five Illinois Governors and prior to that had an award-winning broadcasting career. He is currently a freelance writer, media relations consultant and professional photographer.