Roger Boughton

Guest Columnist

This morning my wife Cheryl and I were discussing the days approaching activities. She happened to mention that when looking out the window she noticed that it was snowing out. She immediately became somewhat depressed and wondered if spring would be late coming. At that moment in time she realized that this might be her last chance to look at it snow or see a snowflake as we never know how long we are on this earth. With that thought in mind and with a sharp concentration she devoted her energy to really looking at it snow and to see the beauty in each snowflake.

This reminded me of special people in our lives. Jerry Anfinson comes quickly to mind as one special person. An Austin Native, Jerry graduated from Austin High School. He spent four years in the Air Force and returned home to begin his college education. He enrolled in what was then called Austin Junior College to save money. Upon graduation he transferred to the University of Minnesota where he earned a degree in Accounting. He was also recognized as receiving the highest score on the state of Minnesota uniform CPA examination.

In the mid-1960s, he returned to Austin and became a partner in what is now known as Clifton Larson Allen.

However, that is not what makes him so special to Austin. What makes him such an asset to the community is his endless energy, unending generation of ideas and love for his community of Austin. Of special note is that he helped create the Development Corporation of Austin and Apex-Austin whose efforts led to the creation of our Welcome Center.

He is also a member of the Hormel Foundation Board of which he has been a member for over 30 years. When you hear or see the many activities of the Hormel Foundation as it relates to Vision 2020 know that Jerry Anfinson has had his fingers in the pot as treasurer always looking for a better idea for Austin.

He and his wife, Carol, spend their winters in Naples, Florida, and summers in Austin. My wife has taught me to look more closely at those who pass our way and appreciate the many talents and skills that they bring to the table. Jerry Anfinson, we are so glad that you count Austin as very special in your life.