There were several notable events or dates at the Hormel Historic Home in the past few weeks that make it hard for me to choose what to write about this week. So, below is a recap of the highlights.

The garden is a peak color and many of you have enjoyed its pleasantness during a recent concert. On July 1, the Austin Community Jazz Band played for the seventh year in a row. With a jazz set that included Moondance by Van Morrison and The Beat Goes On by Sonny Bono and a lovely vocal by Laura Delke, the concert was a wonderful way to spend a Sunday evening.

On July 10, guests were entertained by Irish drummer Todd Menton and Galactic Cowboy Orchestra’s John Wright. Menton played the Bodrun, the Tin Whistle, and Mandolin to the enjoyment of all. The stories behind some of the Irish tunes made people chuckle and the tunes had toes tapping. Menton will return in October to conduct a children’s workshop during our Music In Motion series.

Our ninth annual Circle of Friends Day Camp designed for elementary aged kids on the Autism Spectrum took place at the end of June, and 19 youth practiced social skills through planned activities, learned about our police department, and visited Oxbow Park in Byron.

The eighth annual All Access Community Explorations Camp kicked off on July 9th as did the third annual Camp Just for Me. These camps provide opportunities for young people to practice socially accepted behaviors and to become more confident and familiar within our community. Dedicated and professional staff make these camps fun, educational, and impactful for area children on the spectrum striving find acceptance.

On the 17th, we wished Geordie A. Hormel II a happy 90th Birthday. Born on July 17, 1928, the name sake of the George A. Hormel and Company founder, led a life pursuing music and entrepreneurial endeavors. The HHH is grateful for the support of Geordie’s widow, Jamie, who has sent us several Hormel family artifacts that we now or will soon have on display.

Not by design, but through coincidence, we celebrated Geordie’s birthday with a day of music. The musical duo, Jack & Kitty, known for their organic vaudeville and jug band style, conducted an instrument making workshop for 15 children. They then performed for guests of all ages featuring Depression era songs on the cigar box guitar and the jug. In the evening, guests heard a variety of songs performed in the Peace Garden. It was a wonderful day and a busy few weeks.

What’s happening at the HHH

Peace Garden Concert: Joey Leone, History of Blues in America

6:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 24

An assortment of blues, from Pre-War to Texas & Chicago Electric Style Blues, as well as his own original blues compositions.Kids ages 3-12 are invited to a special pre-concert set designed just for them from 5:30-5:50 p.m. for young music lovers to get up close and personal with the music and instruments. Free.

Peace Garden Concert:  Dang Ol’ Tri’ole

6:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 3

With unique experiences and common bonds, the group features their own sound that borrows from an array of styles including Traditional Folk, Progressive Rock, Salsa, Blues, Ska, Gypsy, and Classic Rock.