Recently, I have been fortunate to work collaboratively with the leaders of several other organizations: the Austin Public Library, the Mower County Historical Society and the Historic Paramount Theatre. Working together to produce projects and programs is both effective and enjoyable, and I think we have come up with some great offerings. We have the common goal of bringing educational and entertaining programs to the community through many different forms.

While Dustin Heckman was still leading the Mower County Historical Society and Laura Helle was the Director of the HHH, the creation of a Mower County history curriculum specifically for young people was initiated. The project has evolved over the past two years, and we now have an 11-chapter comprehensive look at our county to supplement the sixth-grade Minnesota History unit. Along with Jaimie Timm, MCHS, and Cheryl Dunlap, retired sixth-grade teacher, we will distribute the material to all the school districts in the county. Austin’s youth will now have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating past of Mower County.

My work continues with the MCHS with John Haymond at the helm. Along with Ann Hokanson of the Austin Public Library, we are developing programs to promote our common cause. Author and historian Walt Bachman will visit the HHH on at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16, to discuss slavery in Minnesota during the Civil War.  This program is free and open to the public.

On Thursday, Oct. 23, the Austin Public Library is hosting an antiques appraisal event with Mark Moran. An active appraiser of antiques and fine art for over 20 years, Mr. Moran will share his knowledge and evaluations with those who register.  The cost is $15 per item for members of the HHH, the Austin Public Library, and the MCHS and $25 for non-members.  For more information or to register, please call or stop by the MCHS or call 507-437-6082.

Another program we are working on together is a History Happy Hour series. This program will feature speakers and presentations that will highlight various chapters or features of our past. Presentations will be free for members of our organizations and $5 for non-members. Light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar will be offered.

In collaboration with the Paramount Theatre, the HHH will again be hosting the VIP Veldman and Friends pre-show event. A champagne brunch and silent auction to benefit the HHH and the Paramount will be held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6. Tickets are $50 ($45 for members of either organization) for the brunch and 2 p.m. matinee show. They go on sale Tuesday, Sept. 16 at the new Austin ArtWorks Center.

Details for these and other programs can be found on any of our websites or by calling us directly. Contact information is below.

•Hormel Historic Home 507-433-4243  www.hormelhistorichome.org

•Mower County Historical Society 507-437-6082  www.mowercountyhistory.org

•Austin Public Library 507-433-2391 www.austinpubliclibrary.org

•Historic Paramount Theatre 507-434-0934 www.austinareaarts.org

Social Concerns presented by Sarah Gilberg of the On Track Lab

Sept. 16, 2014, free program

As the Work Based Learning Coordinator for the Austin Public Schools, Sara’s directs the exploration and assessment lab, which functions as a simulated job experience for youth with special needs. She will describe the curriculum and objectives of the program. Come learn how these young people are being prepared for their futures. Coffee and treat will be served.

Please call 507-433-4243 to let us know you are coming.