Letter to the Editor

Marvin Repinski, Austin

As the chairman of the commission that gives citizen support to Austin’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority, I continue, with this board, staff, and Executive Director Jim Hurm, to build a brighter future for our city. Mr. Hurm, also in his position as City Manager, affirms my passion to create an even more attractive place to reside.

I’m writing in response to an article that appeared in the May 26 issue of the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Under the title “Is Hormel losing momentum?” Mike Hughlett casts an unnecessary dark cloud over Austin’s primary employer.

Whereas the article implies a “yes” to his question, I respond “no!” Momentum is on the side of sustainability, growth, and a grand plus for a large geographical area. The expanding Hormel Institute is a splendid sign to the Midwest. It says even in a time of economic stress as a nation, we in the Austin area have relative stability.

Among the many reasons for Hormel’s future positive momentum, are the following:

1. The leadership of the company, especially CEO Jeffrey Ettinger’s competence, will assure splendid decision-making.

2. The greater Austin area is amazingly supportive of Hormel and the many related venues it sustains.

3. Relying on corn and grain prices, primary resources for feeding livestock, an “input cost” for attaining a suitable profit margin, is an unpredictable component in figuring overall production costs.

4. The historic record has, for years, seen Hormel as one of the top home-based companies to be favorable to investors. In comparison with other similar companies, investments in stocks reflect the trust that is based on years of brilliant management.

5. In the national climate of anxiety over jobs, a quieting sense will arise by anyone who will circle the Hormel plants, especially Austin’s, and see full employee parking lots. Cars, vans, and pickup trucks fill the vehicle spaces, which say: This company enhances the economy of many communities. And, a multitude of huge semi-trailer trucks and livestock trucks continually come and go to many locations, some delivering products across our nation.

6. The wisdom of Hormel leadership to expand its production of foods that are embraced by taste, habit, and heritage of the cultural diversity of our nation is salutary. Recent expansion in the arena of Hispanic food products indicates a positive momentum for the future.

7. Reliance on analysis productions by a “stock analysis,” as Mr. Hughlett’s evaluation seems to do, needs to give us pause. Hey, we’ve been there before. Some of my investments, after “analysis,” have gone south. But not my Hormel stocks. They have stayed more than stable.

8. Residents of Austin, like myself, remain proud of Hormel. This company serves as an economic anchor for a wide geographical area. The millions of dollars contributed to this area by the Hormel Foundation have a powerful effect on the emotional tone and economic base of the community.

9. Many persons are affirmed by employment, the agricultural investments, and a medium-sized city’s offer of an overall secure living standard.

10. The Spam Museum, located in Austin, has been evaluated as a “state of the art” statement on how dedicated personnel can carve out a niche in a competitive society. The museum is a signpost of both the past and a voice that states: “This company is on the playing field for more future wins!”