(Okoboji) Joseph Salmon and Zach Koepp, two Okoboji natives, have written a book called Hooked on Hope that tells Joseph’s story. Joseph gained national attention after a heroic ice rescue he made during Winter Games. Shortly after that he suffered a traumatic brain injury in a hunting accident. His book comes out on Saturday and Koepp says it was an honor to help him with this project.
“This weekend is something that is a pure win in life and we’re excited to have this full circle moment. Took us awhile to you know obviously with Joseph’s journey, get to this book launch and we’re proud to have this weekend event where we get to celebrate him and give him the proceeds and help him take his steps into manhood as he’s been on this recovery journey.”
Koepp initially tried to stay away since he now lives in LA and is a filmmaker, he didn’t want people to think he was just in it for the story.
“Like I said I tried to stay away and he’s too good of a kid and now he’s a man and this weekend is about his kind of step into manhood on his own stuff. He’s a very inspiring man and we’re very excited to support him.”
There will be a book signing and a comedy show on Saturday at Oak Hill Outdoor. Comedian Dustin Ybarra has agreed to do a free show in honor of Salmon. The book signing happens from 12 to 3 and the comedy show is at 8. On Sunday there will be a fishing and media event with Joseph at Emerson Bay from 10 to 3. To reserve a free ticket to the comedy show go to circusstreetcomedy.com as there is limited capacity at Oakhill Outdoor.
Click below to hear the full interview with Zach Koepp
