By Holly Johnson

Hormel Historic Home

The Hormel Historic Home has roughly 131 windows not including the glass atrium.

Some of these are of leaded glass, which were added during the Home’s renovations by Harry Wild Jones when George and Lillian purchased it. Earlier this month Endres Window Cleaning spent two full and cold days washing them all, inside and out.

This has been their annual donation to the HHH for the last several years and the service is valued at $1,200.  We are so grateful for the efforts of Endres and cannot imagine doing that job ourselves.

What I have realized over the past several months is that the HHH is greatly supported by the community — not only with financial and service donations but also with wise counsel and patient guidance. We are currently in the process of having our annual audit prepared, and without the assistance of Hill, Larson, Walth, and Benda, P.A., we would not be able to complete this task.

They work with us daily to ensure we are maintaining proper accounting records and being good stewards of the money that is pledged to our organization. This, too, is a job we cannot even think about doing on our own and we are thankful we have a partnership with HLWB.

Last weekend we held our second annual “Foodie Throwdown” as a fundraiser to support the general operations of the HHH.  The six culinary teams contributed well over 100 hours — that I know of — to create their samples for the more than 100 people who attended the event. The HHH provided most of the ingredients but the labor and time that the teams donated is invaluable and delicious.  They did this as a show of support for the Home.

So far during our 2012-2013 annual membership drive 100 individuals and 10 businesses have committed their financial support.

We have a volunteer Board of Directors of 17, a Board of Trustees of 10 volunteers, and too many other people to list who help us during our special events throughout the year.

This in no way is a complete list of those who support the Home, but I just cannot name them all here. The Hormels were committed to serving Austin, and so many are now committed to preserving their legacy through helping to preserve their home.  I am humbled by all the assistance we receive and words do not convey my thanks properly.

Board of Directors

Monday, 8:30 a.m.

Social Concerns

Jennie Knoebel of the Paramount will be describing the various arts opportunities available in Austin as well as the future plans for the Historic Paramount Theatre and the ArtWorks Festival at 10 a.m. on Tuesday. Call 507-433-4243 to register by Monday. This event is free.

Stepping Out For Autism Walk

Mark Saturday, April 20, on your calendars.  The second annual fundraising walk will be held at Mill Pond.  All donations will help support the Autism Programming sponsored by the HHH. Walk starts at 10 a.m. and Hy-Vee will provide lunch at noon. More information available online or by calling the HHH.