So I am not being lazy, but I have decided others might have perspectives of the Hormel Historic Home that you may enjoy hearing.

I have had the pleasure of employing two interns this summer and have asked them, and a couple others, to be my guest columnists for the month of August.

Leah Osmonson approached me about being an intern at the HHH last spring, but I wasn’t sure what our small organization could offer her. She will soon begin her senior year at Iowa State University pursuing a career in Event Management. She has worked in various roles within event planning and execution and she wanted to further her understanding of the field while gaining college credit this summer. It has been a terrific experience, and Leah has been a great asset to the team as she helped coordinate concerts, kids’ events, and the autism camps.

I asked Leah to give an overview of her time at the Hormel Historic Home. She brought me to tears:

“Hormel: a name that everyone in Austin, Minnesota knows. Growing up outside of Minnesota, I never quite understood the fascination with the Hormel name until I started my summer internship at The Hormel Historic Home. Having the opportunity to learn about just how much of an impact George Hormel had on the community is incredible. George proved that anything can be accomplished with hard work and a vision. Every day, visitors come from all over the world to experience the Hormel legacy through the Hormel Historic Home and the Spam Museum. My main goal coming into my summer internship was having an opportunity to grow my event planning skills.

As I finish up my summer, I am leaving with so much more. I have had the opportunity to interact with amazing guests, learn more about the history of Hormel and Austin, and help coordinate a variety of events. I even gained some friends along the way, including my fellow intern Tayha. Holly, Amanda, and Luke have been amazing co-workers and I am so honored to have learned from them. It is incredible to see the passion they have for preserving the Hormel’s history as well as the dedication they have to their jobs. Though I am sad to leave, I am excited to share my opportunity with my fellow classmates as I head back to Iowa State University to finish up my senior year. The Hormel Historic Home is truly a home with a story to tell and I can’t wait to share that story with the world.”

Thank you Leah! We will miss you and wish you well.

Bissen Family & Friends Band

6:30 p.m., Monday, Aug. 14

Learn the history and music behind some of Minnesota’s greatest bands and singers. Popular local musicians will educate and entertain.