Human History - 50 Profiles for 50 years:
Every week in 2021, we have highlighted memories and experiences from treasured members of our community that have been a part of the narrative over the last 50 years that makes the Nature Center what it is today. Below are all of their stories!
PROFILES FOUND BELOW
CLICK TO EXPAND AND EXPLORE THEIR STORIES!
January 6th - Cynthia (Cindy) Lysne Tays
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Last year on Mother’s Day I received a unique and wonderful gift from my son, Zach. He had uncovered a notebook full of records I’d created in the summer of 1976 while I was an intern at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in Austin, MN. It was my good fortune to be the very first Nature Center intern working under Nature Center Director Richard Birger.
Mr. Birger assigned me a very surprising number of tasks and projects for a naturalist student with little experience and also let me run with my own ideas. After just a few days there he told me my first group to lead was the local ladies’ garden club. It was fun to take them through the many habitats available in our southern Minnesota location. Soon after that I taught a several week children’s class called Nature Explorers, led other groups through the trails and interpretive center, painted animal footprints on the walls, created tape recordings for use on the trails and modified interpretive center displays. I also got to transport a new snake from the Minneapolis area for our indoor display. Quickly the excitement ramped up for me, partially due to my passion then for teaching about edible wild plants. This topic had become popular at that time due to Euell Gibbons’ writings and TV appearances on this subject in the early 1970’s. This edible wild plant theme carried through many experiences as an intern that summer. I even wrote a book on the edible wild plants growing in the nature center, illustrated by a work study student available at the center, and we were able to raise center funds by selling the book. This led to appearing on a local television show, speaking to community groups and receiving newspaper coverage for the center on that subject. Soon groups from other areas were coming to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center because of our book and instructions. It was also important for me to realize that not all Nature Center responsibilities are connected to outdoor education and recreation. I have records of attendance at an Austin Parks and Recreation meeting that summer, which is an essential part of maintaining an adequate annual budget. I observed trail restoration by a group of Vietnamese refugees and learned how they harvested watercress at local waterways. And I participated in community service by measuring the barometric pressure, humidity and temperatures that were submitted to the local TV station as part of the daily Austin news weather report. Freeman Tilden, in his book Interpreting Our Heritage, suggests that “the chief aim of interpretation is not instruction, but provocation.” Every outdoor experience contains the potential for life enrichment. But experiences which are provoked by an interpretive program’s introduction of new ways of perceiving and thinking will retain the stimulation longer and fuse it into more aspects of an individual’s life. That capsulizes the opportunities and goals of outdoor education I had the pleasure of experiencing at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in the summer of 1976. Cynthia (Cindy) Lysne Tays Austin High School Class of 1973 |
january 13th - belita schindler
Peter, Belita's grandson, is all smiles holding a frog he caught himself
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It is now nearly 50 years that my family has been enjoying the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. It’s a wonderful place. All of our grandchildren have loved it.
When she was about three, one granddaughter would walk down the paths picking up little pea sized stones, because they were beautiful. Another older granddaughter and I were walking one fall day when a pair of little fawns, that still had their spots, crossed in front of us. Then they just stood there watching us and eating grass. “Grandma, they’re not running away.” They all scaled the big rock, and if they felt really brave would leap off the far side onto the grass. Another time our grandson, Peter, was able to catch a really big frog with his bare hands and insisted that we go back to the interpretive building to show Julie. Julie found his photo that she took of him that day after I shared this story with her for this history project. We had one daughter’s wedding reception in the new building. As long as we promised that there would be no alcohol or loud music and no craziness, we could have it there. I guess they knew we were not too wild… crazy maybe, but not wild. The reception was beautiful. But by far, my favorite story came from my husband Dick. He came home from work one day laughing out loud and saying, “We owe the Nature Center $3,000.” “OK, but why do we owe the Nature Center $3,000.” This is how he answered. If you knew Dick, you would know that he dearly loved cross country skiing. He loved to go really fast or just go slowly and look. He would go out several times a week when the weather and snow permitted. And it was even better if it was a moonlit night and he had no time limit. One day he was reading the poster that listed prices for adult and children’s ski rentals. I think it might have been $6.00 for kids. He really wanted families to be able to bring all their kids out for skiing, so that they could learn to love it as much as he did. But he realized that the rental fee times the number of kids in the family might make it impossible. So he talked with Larry Dolphin, and said that if he would only charge the kids $1.00; keep track of how many kids took advantage of that cost; and let him know in the spring how many kids’ rentals there were... he would give Larry a check for the difference. And that’s why we owed the Nature Center $3,000. He was so thrilled to think of how many kids might have been able to ski with the lower price… how many families would have had outings together… had a good time… and gotten good exercise at the same time. So that’s what Dick and I did each winter... Paid the difference. Dick is gone now, but I’m carrying on the tradition. He would be so thrilled to know that his idea is still at work. I will continue to underwrite the kid’s ski program and hope that lots and lots of kids come out to ski and have a really good time. Good idea, Dick. Love, Belita |
january 20th - bonnie and tim rietz
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Ah! What fond memories we have of our unique, wonderful Jay C. Hormel Nature Center! We arrived in Austin in 1979 with three little girls (4, 2 and 3 months) and right away enjoyed walking the trails. Fast forward to 2019 when we ran a family 5K on the trails with all three girls and their families including our 7 grandchildren!
Throughout the years we have enjoyed cross-country skiing where one time we skied by at least 30 deer. The 8K fall runs were a high-light jogging through the forest and prairie while crunching through the beautiful, colored leaves. The kids and grandkids have experienced many activities including archery classes, canoeing, catching butterflies, getting scared at Halloween and holding snakes. We have attended many meetings and community gatherings in the Ruby Rupner Auditorium and the most exciting for us was when our youngest daughter Mindy had her wedding reception there. Ah! The beautiful pictures that Tim has taken throughout the years and now in retirement show the amazing flora and fauna that you can experience in this unique oasis. Happy 50 years to this wonderful jewel in our community! |
January 27th - diane and terry dorsey
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In 1970, my wife, Diane, and I moved to Austin, Minnesota to teach. I was hired to teach physics and she was hired to teach elementary in Oakland, Minnesota. We were both interested in the environment so in 1971 we signed up for a program in Sarona, Wisconsin at the National Audubon Society’s Audubon Camp in Wisconsin.
During that two-week program, I became very interested in bird watching. The Directory of the camp, Ed Brigham, was vice president for the upper Midwest for National Audubon Society. During that summer of 1971, three things merged into the formation what became the Hormel Nature Center: The city of Austin acquired what was King’s Woods; I joined the Minnesota board of Audubon; a woman in Austin started the collection of names of local National Audubon Society members. Result: Ed Brigham was part of the advisory group from National Audubon Society that helped develop the plan for the formation of King’s Wood’s into a nature center, I became the first president of the Austin Audubon Chapter when it received its charter membership in the national group. The chapter became a strong supporter of the lay advisory committee and later the naming of the center to the Jay C Hormel Nature Center. In conjunction with the lay advisory committee, Audubon members became volunteers for weekend afternoons, leaders of bird hikes and participants in the many programs of nature “adventures“. The Audubon newsletter was named Austin Jay and met monthly at the interpretive center. Many Audubon members took advantage of the fantastic and Environmental diversity at the Nature Center to build a life of birds they ID’d during the springtime. From 1972-1984 the Center helped me build a life list of 246 species, the most notable, a Kentucky Warbler, May 26, 1986. Diane was not thrilled at my being gone spring Saturday mornings. When the trails were developed, she did enjoy the cross-country skiing at the nature center. I think we were one of the few of our friends who looked forward to snow. The center also provided great opportunities in my environmental studies classes. I had two-hour class field trips including chemistry of Dobbins Creek, deer “poop" population surveys and cross country skiing. The nature center provided fantastic opportunities for all those types of field trips. Coincidentally, I had two students in my years of teaching that ended up helping with the nature center. Alex Watson was an intern at the nature center who later became a Minnesota Department of Natural Resource’s Division of Parks and Trails. Also Luke Reese a student, an intern and, now our current Director/Naturalist! The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center continued to be part of our lives; we enjoyed cross-country skiing, Diane took some of her elementary classes and I helped with a skiing class just before the Pandemic shut activities down. I can’t believe it’s been 50 years since I’ve been part of the Nature Center’s activities. It’s been a wonderful, long, enjoyable, rewarding and educational experience for me and many others. Thank you Mother Nature. Terry and Diane Dorsey |
February 4th - Merlene and Jim Stiles
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In the mid-60’s, I enjoyed riding my horse through the Nature Center. We would share the trails with Nuns, as the Hormel House was their retreat. My favorite trail was slightly downhill, with a gentle curve at the bottom that was magical to go around in a gallop. The trail in the meadow with a lone oak tree provided shade on a hot summer day. In high school, I would bring friends to the Nature Center at night to enjoy the magic of the moonlit trails.
In the mid-70’s, I learned to cross country ski. I carried a flask of wine, cheese and crackers with me when I skied. I saw only one other person skiing there. We stopped to chat on that warm, sunny winter afternoon, and I noticed his very long wooden skis. In the mid-80’s, I took my date cross-country skiing at night through the Nature Center. He wasn’t sure where he was, and asked me if I knew where we were. He realized that I did know the trails, and could be trusted, and maybe a little more. In the 90’s, I would bring our children to the Nature Center. Jim trained for his four Twin City Marathons running on the trails. He remembers seeing clouds of Monarch butterflies in the Fall. I was hired as the Nature Center intern. I learned to identify the macroinvertebrates in the pond and stream, and helped 6th graders do the same. The curriculum for each grade that attended the Nature Center programs was fun to learn and teach. I got to play Queen Helga of the Trolls for the Nature Center Warm-up, and my children were also actors. In the decade of the new century, I would bring my Environmental Studies students to the Nature Center for several field trips throughout the school year, with the help of Larry and many volunteers. As a Friends board member, I was elected President and honored as Volunteer of the Year in 2002. We began fundraising to double the size of the Nature Center. Jim supplied the prairie plants this year around the buildings. Now I bring my grandchildren to the Nature Center. They will value the Nature Center as much as we do. |
February 11th - Robert auer
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My story has three parts: the check, the Vice President, and a big rock!
(A check) I was Director Jim Haben’s Assistant Director when the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center began planning and applying for grants to fund the new center. We had our offices in the old Shaw Gym and I remember a gentleman coming into our offices and handing over a check to purchase the 123 acres of the Hormel Estate with the intent of building the new Nature Center. “ I had never seen a check for that much money and I have never seen one since.” (The Vice President and Senator) On July 11, 1975 at the grand opening of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center there were several hundred people attended the dedication. I had the pleasure to have lunch with Senator Hubert Humphrey and many of our community leaders. It was an honor to meet the former Vice-President of the United States under President Lyndon Johnson 1965-1969. Instead of a large red ribbon and giant scissors, a pole was set up across one of the arboretum’s paths and a two man cross cut was used by Senator Hubert Humphrey and Mayor Bob Enright to signify the grand opening. (The Big Rock) Vince Shay and I headed out to the former Nielson farmstead to see the newly found glacial erratic that was sticking out of the ground. I asked Vince what a glacial erratic was and he said “It’s a big rock!” Moving this big rock was a very difficult task that took almost a month to complete. Wally Bustad broke a number of cables trying to drag the rock up out of the ground and the City used their water trucks to create a road of ice for Wally to move the rock from north of Todd Park to the Nature Center one and 1/2 miles. On a very cold day in December (with subzero temperatures) Vince and I were trying to decide just where the final resting place would be for this big rock. We needed to mark the spot where Wally and his crew would deposit it. I asked Vince where he wanted it. Vince walked over and stood on the spot. What should we use to mark the spot? I dug in my pants pocket and pulled out some coins to spread on the frozen ground around him. I spread about 80 cents. I wonder if those coins will ever be seen again? The Nature Center is a great place to take a walk after a stressful day. Vince and I would often take a walk on the trails and he would always point out something new in nature as the seasons changed like mushrooms, plants, animals and wildflowers. I remember that on one of our walks Vince stopped me mid-stride and said “Bob, don’t put your foot down.” I asked why and he pointed out the wildflower and leaf of the Yellow Lady Slipper that I almost stepped on. Sadly the Yellow Lady Slippers of the Nature Center were illegally dug up and removed and did not grow here again. Orchid thieves! I remember another story about one of the first tours given at the new Nature Center. Dr. Dick Nordin organized a walking tour with a host of community leaders. There had to be at least 30–40 people. We headed into the woods on the south trail and circled up from Dobbins Creek into the grasslands that is now prairie. One of the people on the tour asked Dick “Where are all the deer?” Dick turned to the grassland waved his hands and said “Okay deer can you all stand up now.” Amazingly, almost on cue, a mother doe and two fawns stood up in the grasslands and scampered off. Dick’s power to call the animals was quite the story for a long time. HA! |
February 18th - abbey bergstrom
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Growing up in the Austin area the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center was a place I considered to be very special; a place to feel connected. As a young child, little did I know that my connection to JCHNC began with my dad, RJ Bergstrom.
My dad was a second year carpentry student at Riverland Community College and he, along with other carpentry students, constructed the first Interpretive Center. He had the honor to meet and even gift a handmade bottle opener to Senator Hubert Humphrey during the Interpretive Center dedication. My dad was pretty proud of his accomplishments and even received a letter from Senator Humphrey thanking him for his one of a kind bottle opener. My mom, Dedee Bergstrom, loves Halloween and when I was younger she took the family to the Halloween Warm-ups. I may not be able to recall all the times we went, but one occasion I never forgot. We were walking the trails, listening to the stories, enjoying the skits along the way, and then one of our last stops was on the Covered Bridge. We heard a frightening story about a girl (Jenny Green teeth) being stuck in the water and next thing I know someone is grabbing at my feet from under the bridge. I definitely was startled. The actress did a great job and every time I walk across that bridge I make sure to stay in the center. When I was about nine or ten years old I participated in a class at the JCHNC that focused on Native American culture. I was so excited to participate in this class and wanted to soak up all the information I could. We made a choker out of chicken bones, a rug out of cattails, a shield from a deer hide, and even made some arrowheads. It was fun to learn how Native Americans utilized things that nature provided, and how they appreciated and connected to the earth. I wanted to share my knowledge and abilities, so I entered my deer hide shield that summer for 4-H. As I mentioned earlier, I believe that JCHNC provides a place to find, make and create connections with the environment and others that share that passion for nature. We’ve attended weddings, birthday parties, showers, graduations, and many types educational opportunities through the JCHNC programming. I feel very blessed to have a place like the JCHNC in our community and appreciate all that they have done and are doing to continue to make this a place to find connections. Now more than ever, being a mother of two, it is important to me that I provide my children with similar experiences and opportunities for them to appreciate, respect, and connect to nature. It is my hope that they too can grow up knowing that JCHNC is a special place. |
february 25th - richard bIrger
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When I arrived in 1974, the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center was mostly an idea – a good idea, but outside of a couple of hundred acres and some scattered developments, it still was mostly an idea a few interested citizens and the Austin Park and Recreation Department shared.
Much of the emphasis to further develop the center came from a stalwart group of citizens that over time became the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center. They spent a lot of time and effort to convince residents and elected official that this was a worthy addition to the community. As I recall. Remember it has been a half century, the first Interpretive Center was built with a lot of volunteered materials. The labor came from students at the local Community College engaged in learning the construction trades. Their instructor wouldn’t let anyone use a power saw until he was convinced they were proficient with a hand saw. Even so, my recollection is, two of the walls didn’t line up until some major onsite changes were made in the plans. In 1975 the first Interpretive Center was dedicated. I didn’t know enough about protocol to not invite everyone I could think of that may have had an interest in this venture. Among others noted for their environmental interests, HRH Prince of Wales, politely declined. Former Vice President Hubert Humphrey did accept the invitation and participated in, rather than a ribbon cutting, a ceremonial sawing of small branch leading up to the front door. As they say the rest is history. Good luck and best wishes in the future. |
March 4th - Vince shay
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I remember asking Bob Auer (Austin Park Director) to describe the local landscape prior to my first visit for an interview. When I arrived, I realized that his view of ‘gently rolling’ and my view were somewhat different. Yet, it didn’t take long before I learned to love the vistas in Mower County.
There were two big floods along Dobbins Creek in the summer of 1978. So, when I arrived in August, the trails in the floodplain were erased. They were replaced by mud and driftwood. The naturalist who was, I thought, a ‘regular’ employee was actually ‘short-term’ and left about two weeks after my start. I must admit to being a bit dejected and feeling just a little defeated, thinking, “There isn’t much else that can go wrong!”, when staff from the Bell Museum of Natural History showed up and removed the little dioramas that were the primary displays! They had been ‘on loan’. Yes, there was plenty to keep us busy during those early years, and the people in Austin were wonderful and eager to utilize the sanctuary. Teachers were receptive to school visits. Scouting groups, YMCA groups, Sunday walks, night hikes, stargazing, moonwalks, owl prowls, woodcock walks, wildflower hikes, were all well-received. We started: cross-country skiing, canoe rentals, maple syruping, craft classes, apple-cider Sundays, summer programs for kids, and so much more. I can’t believe I led walks for a dozen 3-5 year olds. The cost per child? Fifty cents! It was a very gratifying ten years. I owe so much to an involved community, as well as dedicated co-workers and volunteers. We had our first Pioneer Day in 1980 I think, and while I anticipated, with luck, 200-300 people, it turned out to be more like 2000 visitors. It was a huge success and caused a horrible traffic jam. Parked cars encroached on the I-90 ramps and some very aggravated state highway patrol officers visited me that afternoon and asked if I knew anything about ‘crowd control’. Crowd control was just the tip of the iceberg when it came to things I didn’t know much about, but my time at the nature center, and the people of Austin, were thoughtful teachers. Ten years flew by, and two major land acquisitions more than doubled the size of the sanctuary. Oh, and one more thing, that rock. It wouldn’t have gotten moved without Bob Auer’s dogged persistence, matched only by Wally Bustad’s artful use of heavy equipment. I remember the enormous sense of relief that poured over me when we had the erratic across 21st Street and on the sanctuary. I said, “THAT’S GOOD ENOUGH". Bob Auer walked up, looked me in they eye, and said, “TELL THEM EXACTLY WHERE YOU WANT IT!” I did, and there it remains. |
March 11th - Dr. Richard Nordin
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On this special week, we are highlighting Dr. Richard Nordin. Fifty years beyond the Austin founders, hundreds of thousands of visitors have enjoyed this jewel of a place in the cornfields of Minnesota. Today we celebrate our Golden Anniversary: March 11, 1971-March 11, 2021. We can look back at our past achievements and see the incredible growth of the past 50 years. We look forward to the next 50 years by enhancing our environmental education programs and classes and teaching lifelong respect for nature for patrons of all ages.
“In January 1971 when funds were granted to purchase the property the City Council instructed the City Attorney to see if the Minnesota State Department of Natural Resources would take over the Nature Center and operate it as a State Park. As a result of massive opposition, about 50 people crowded the council chambers and this motion was rescinded. Terry Dorsey said that the Nature Center as a State Park was not in Austin’s best interest and he presented a petition with 1330 names opposing the State take over. The next controversy occurred when an attempt was made to name the new property King’s Woods Nature Center. The Park and Recreation Board and the City Council agreed to the name. However, after many letters of displeasure and many individuals voicing their disagreement with that name the Lay Committee unanimously agreed it should be called the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center to honor the individual that initially started the arboretum. The Park and Recreation Board and the City Council promptly agreed and the name was changed and everyone was happy once again.” - Dr. Richard Nordin On March 11, 1971, the City of Austin acquired 123 acres of land around the Jay C. Hormel Estate. A combination of state, Federal, and Hormel Foundation grants provided $230,000 to purchase the Hormel Arboretum from Geordie Hormel. The Jay C. Hormel Lay Advisory Committee begins to plan the development of the Nature Center. These committee members included Dr. Richard Nordin - Chairman (Park and Recreation Board), Bryan Toney - Vice Chair (Austin State Junior College), Gordon Lonning (Austin High School), James Haben (Park and Recreation Director), Norm Nellen (Soil and Water Conservation), Ron Seath (County Extension Office), Daryl Franklin (City/County Planner), Bob Ackerwold (Austin Park and Recreation Board), Jacques R. Chipault (Hormel Research Institute), Phil Shealey (City/County Planner). “This committee was a real working group. The statement was made in the beginning that if someone felt they didn’t have the time they shouldn’t accept the position.” - Dr. Richard Nordin Be sure to check back in soon for an enlightening video interview with Dr. Richard Nordin, our Friends President Tim Ruzek, Director Luke Reese, and Nature Center Office Manager Julie Champlin. Dick will share his stories of the beginnings of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center and his personal involvement for the last 50 years. |
march 18th - larry dolphin
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I spent 28 years as the Director/Naturalist at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. It was a dream job for me. Learning about and taking care of our planet earth and all the “wild ones” is so very important for all of us. Having a chance to teach at the Nature Center about our natural world is my passion.
The Nature Center continues to be a focal point for all to enjoy and learn about our natural world. There have been so many wonderful, hard working, talented, caring people, that have given of themselves to make the Nature Center a better place for all. There have been so many volunteers that have worked hard to raise money for new land, to build new buildings, restore prairie, and plant trees. The financial support for our staff has been challenging at times but the community has always been generous. I so enjoyed working with the staff. The interns kept me young. They also assisted me with my computer inability, especially Maria Anderson. The maintenance staff, including Mike Goetz, Duane Sucha and Dan Clayton did a great job through the years taking care of the land, the trails, and the infrastructure. In addition to her excellent work on the “Feast” Julie Champlin was so good at reminding me to be sure to say thank you to all the donors. I would also like to thank my wife Nancy and family. Amber, Ben and Nancy were very good at clean up after special events. Nancy provided meals and lodging for many Nature Center guest speakers over the years, including Douglas Wood, David Stokes, Tom Pease, Dr. Dean Hanson and James Keelaghan, to name a few. She was also my editor-in-chief. Like the interns, she provided computer support and it continues to this day. Anything that I wrote for the newsletter or other special occasions I wrote at home. The Nature Center was always too busy for me to try and do it there. Back in 2005, when Luke was an intern, he locked me in the enclosure with “Red” our red-tailed hawk. I was feeding and taking care of “Red” at the time. The bolt for the door was on the outside and I was unable to unlock it from the inside. First graders had arrived. Fortunately, Stan Sabin was running by and I yelled at him. He unlocked the door. Luke was already teaching the first graders. What was that all about, Luke?? I did get back at him, though. I accidentally let the honey bees out of the hive in the old interpretive building. He was closest and he was stung a few times. Sorry Luke! Although he was going to school at the University of Minnesota, in June of 2009, Luke was in town and came out to help clean up after the tornado. I was very happy to see him. It was one of many ways Luke showed that he really cared about the Nature Center. I love the new bee hive set up and Rita Lickteig’s new enclosure around the cabin. The buck thorn removal with Stantec and the goats have been phenomenal. The Essence of Place by John Duren and Douglas Wood is a superb historical pictorial account of the Nature Center. The eleven-acre Gaard land addition was a very long time coming. Kudos to all those leaders that made land acquisition happen over the years. The “wild ones” appreciate the new habitat. We appreciate seeing and hearing the “wild ones”. Nancy and I appreciate all the work that continues to be done through the leadership of staff, and volunteers. It seems adapting to change has especially been prevalent the last four years. I would also like to say thank you to the leadership of the Park and Recreation Directors during my watch, including Kim Underwood, Denny Maschka and Bob Auer. I hope to continue to help with teaching at the Nature Center once the virus is under control. Our family will continue to enjoy the programs and trails at the Nature Center. I may be a little biased but I think I have it right. I think the Nature Center is the number one place to visit in Southern Minnesota. So many things to do and see. Thanks to all of you who have made the Nature Center a crown jewel. For the Wild Ones, the Little Ones, and Don't Forget the Old Ones, Larry and Nancy |
March 25th - Amy and Greg Baskin
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The Hormel Nature Center has been part of our lives since we moved here in 1986. With two small children we found the nature center to be an excellent place to take our energetic boys to hike, run and play. Countless sticks were gathered and thrown into the creek from the covered bridge as our boys ran from one side to the other to see whose stick came through first. Many adventures were played out while hiking to the tower to look for wild animals. Various things were learned from classes, partnerships and exhibits.
Our boys grew up understanding that nature is centering and calming for the soul. They learned to respect the trails and the habitats of creatures. They saw four very distinct seasons and the joys each one provides. They learned to cross country ski in the winter; jumped over the stepping stones with a raging creek underneath and checked out the levels of sap in the maple buckets in the spring; hiked trails, climbed the tower, saw fields of bluebells and wild flowers in the summer and enjoyed beautiful autumn colors, Monarch butterflies, wild turkeys and Halloween Warm Up in the fall. They still talk about Jenny Green Teeth. Our boys are grown and Greg and I enjoy peaceful walks and ski adventures together. We have introduced our two granddaughters to the beauty of nature and all that it offers. They now climb the trees, throw sticks, jump the stepping stones, play in the new interpretive center, cross country ski and are learning to respect the habitats of creatures large and small. The Nature Center is one of their favorite places to go. The staff are incredible and knowledgeable. They are kind and caring and take time to teach and answer questions. Our granddaughters had the opportunity to watch the turtle exercise and understand why that was necessary. They saw how it was fed and why it needs a special diet. They have enjoyed the honey from the bees and the maple syrup from the trees. They love to visit Guka and the hawks and understand why they are not able to be in the wild. We appreciated the availability of the nature center during the pandemic and were often the only ones in the interpretive center giving us opportunities for new adventures. The nature center is a gem in our community. It has changed and grown over the years to include more land, facilities, classes and opportunities. We are so blessed to have this facility and staff. |
April 1st - Daryl Franklin
How can it be that fifty years have flown the hour glass of time? Growing up in Austin I can recall the Hormel Estate near the airport. Our neighbor was a watchman for the estate. In July of 1973, I started working for the City of Austin and Mower County. At a city council meeting a couple of the council members stated they want me to do some work with Nature Center Lay Advisory Committee. They might need some assistance in doing grant application for the nature center. At the first meeting I was introduced to Dick Nordin, Jacques Chipault, Bob Ackerwold, Ron Seath, Gordon Lonning, Jim Haben, Norm Nellen, Bruce Bergstrom, Bryan Toney, John Beyer, and Phil Shealy. With this group and assistance from the City Engineers office submitted an application to the State of Minnesota. They received a grant for 100% funding for the acquisition of the park since the State considered the project to be of “regional significance”. From my perspective the City Council was pleased not to have to spend money to purchase the land.
Over time I had the opportunity to work with committee for development of the area and additional land acquisitions. At this time the city council agreed to hire a naturalist for the nature center, as I recall Dick Berger, Vince Shay, we worked with both of these people. After these individuals left Larry Dolphin was hired. While working with these people, we were glad to have Julie Champlin to work with. At this time Mower County established a water planning committee, we needed a place to meet and Larry volunteered the nature center. The water committee included representation’s from townships, small cities, Austin City Council, and Mower County Board. Austin Utilities, Turtle Creek water shed. Soil and water conservation district, Mower County Extension. The committee dealt with issues of East Side lake water quality and encouraged County Board to establish a program of loans to upgrade septic systems. Larry and Julie were excellent hosts and even made coffee for the meeting.
As young parents Joan and I had the opportunity to take Rebekah and Luke to do hiking, attend programs, and cross country skiing. Joan recalls one time when she was skiing with Becky and it became rather dark and they weren’t back, she was very pleased to come around the corner and see the lights of nature center and parking lot.
One highlight I recall was the dedication of the Nature Center building and Senator Humphrey came and spoke about the importance of having an area like the nature to be enjoyed by many people. The importance of the nature for future generations was shown to Joan and I when we brought our 2 ½ year old grandson Louie to the new center. He enjoyed crawling in and out of all the exhibits. He was also excited when a staff member asked if he wanted to hold and touch a snake. When it was time for the building to close, he didn’t want to leave.
Keep up the good work JC Hormel Nature Center staff and volunteers.
Over time I had the opportunity to work with committee for development of the area and additional land acquisitions. At this time the city council agreed to hire a naturalist for the nature center, as I recall Dick Berger, Vince Shay, we worked with both of these people. After these individuals left Larry Dolphin was hired. While working with these people, we were glad to have Julie Champlin to work with. At this time Mower County established a water planning committee, we needed a place to meet and Larry volunteered the nature center. The water committee included representation’s from townships, small cities, Austin City Council, and Mower County Board. Austin Utilities, Turtle Creek water shed. Soil and water conservation district, Mower County Extension. The committee dealt with issues of East Side lake water quality and encouraged County Board to establish a program of loans to upgrade septic systems. Larry and Julie were excellent hosts and even made coffee for the meeting.
As young parents Joan and I had the opportunity to take Rebekah and Luke to do hiking, attend programs, and cross country skiing. Joan recalls one time when she was skiing with Becky and it became rather dark and they weren’t back, she was very pleased to come around the corner and see the lights of nature center and parking lot.
One highlight I recall was the dedication of the Nature Center building and Senator Humphrey came and spoke about the importance of having an area like the nature to be enjoyed by many people. The importance of the nature for future generations was shown to Joan and I when we brought our 2 ½ year old grandson Louie to the new center. He enjoyed crawling in and out of all the exhibits. He was also excited when a staff member asked if he wanted to hold and touch a snake. When it was time for the building to close, he didn’t want to leave.
Keep up the good work JC Hormel Nature Center staff and volunteers.
April 8th - Mary Roszkowski
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My name is Mary Roszkowski (formerly Mary Hesch). My last name was Anderson for the 4 years I worked at the JCHNC back in the mid 1980’s. I would have to say it was probably the most interesting and definitely the most fun job I have had in my lifetime.
While working at the Nature Center as the assistant to Vincent E. Shay and Dan Clayton (he was the land manager at the time) I was fortunate to experience things most people would not get to do at a “regular” job. Part of my job was to care for orphaned animals. I cared for injured and orphaned deer, raccoons, woodchucks, squirrels, injured birds of all kinds – including predatory birds. I took may of these little creatures home with me at night because they needed care and feedings through the night. I lived in the old gatekeepers house, which was located on the property. I was the first JCHNC employee to live in that little one bedroom house that was torn down a few years later. I took care of all the animals on display as well. We had a red tail hawk, a great horned owl, frogs, toads, turtles, snakes and of course all the food to feed them... we raised mice and mealworms. When I first began to work there, Vince showed me how to chop up the rats from the Hormel Institute to feed the birds of prey. I told him I was pretty sure I would never be able to do that task and with a month of doing it I could not only chop up rats with my little hatchet, but could eat my lunch at the same time! I help create displays for the center, designed t-shirts for the events held at the nature center, taught classes on candle dipping, wreath making, summer classes with the kids, school groups, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and even took groups out canoeing. I illustrated a wildflower trail guide book and did illustrations for articles wrote for a magazine called Water, Woods and Wildlife. I also took a class to learn how to do taxidermy. We had a freezer full of deceased animals that did not survive their rehab care that would eventually be turned into taxidermy, and with my affiliation with the nature center was able to prepare predatory birds that most taxidermists never got a chance to work on. It was during my time at the JCHNC that we produced the first quarterly newsletter – it was written by Vince Shay and I designed the hand illustrated newsletter. It was typed on an electric typewriter and I printed it on a copy machine. It was a major undertaking with the equipment I had to work with, compared to our computers nowadays. We also started Halloween Warm Up during my time there. Pioneer Days was another big event to prepare for as well as hanging buckets to collet maple sap and evaporating it down to make maple syrup with the school groups. The JCHNC was a big part of my life growing up. It was a fun place to hang out in the 1970’s with my friends. We called it “King’s Woods” then. The lone oak tree was a popular hiking destination for us, which I believe now is long gone. I even had my first wedding on the covered bridge back in 1977. Austin is fortunate to have such a wonderful nature center - it’s one of the best ones I have ever had the opportunity to visit! |
aPRIL 15TH - dR. mIKE wILLIAMS
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The Hormel Nature Center has been an important part of my family’s life. My children, grandchildren and I all participated in many educational programs and entertainment events over the years. I most enjoyed nature walks and cross country skiing. The extensive trail system produced many opportunities to observe wildlife.
Shortly after the Nature Center opened, it became a place people turned to with questions concerning injured wildlife. I was honored to be asked to evaluate injured birds of prey as to whether or not the birds could be treated at the University of Minnesota Raptor Center. Over the years watching the Nature Center take an active part in preserving the birds of prey, it made me proud to be a small part of this effort. |
April 22nd - Julie and Duane Champlin
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Duane - We are so fortunate that Jay Hormel had a vision for the property which is now the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. I am so happy that the City of Austin had the opportunity to acquire this land and make it an amazing nature center. I have been going into this land since my teenage years. Our daughters, Nicole and Lisa, have been on the trails since they were born.
They participated in all of the programs and classes they could get into and also volunteered their time and energy at many Pioneer Day events. Now our six grandchildren are enjoying the Nature Center with their Nana and Papa! I have collected many memories over the years and I’d like to share a couple. While walking the trails with our young kiddos we encountered a mother fox with her pups on the south trail. From about 50 yards she started barking to alert both her pups and let us that she was there. At the first bark, our youngest daughter Lisa, literally jumped at the loud sound. The pups soon went out of view but she continued barking for a few more seconds before heading back into the tall grass. It was definitely a unique experience with this close encounter with a Red fox family. It was fall and Julie and I were walking the trails when we spotted a small young doe. It seemed very curious and didn’t run. I grabbed a hand full of greens on the side of the trail and slowly walked to the deer offering it some food. The deer actually came within inches of my outstretched hand before deciding maybe it shouldn’t be that close to humans. The doe looked at us and stood close by before simply deciding to walk away. Then there is the story of the two headed frog. This was during the time Minnesota was seeing many deformed frogs in the state. A mother and her son brought in a small cooler inside the old visitor center claiming they found a two headed frog near their home. Upon further inspection Larry and Julie were able to conclude that this was actually two frogs connected very tightly together in a mating position. The Mother was a bit embarrassed and somewhat horrified that she hadn’t figured that out. Her son said “Mom, I told you that was what they were doing!” and away they went back home with the two headed frog! I have enjoyed volunteering at the nature center and witnessing first hand the amazing job the directors, naturalists and interns have done over many years through environmental education classes, programs, daily activities, fundraisers and aiding visitors from far and near. Julie - “Life is not measured by the breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away.” I have been blessed with some very special moments in nature over the last 50 years that have taken my breath away since the late 1960s/1970s when I first discovered King’s Woods as a teenager. Those first nature observations here on the trails remain embedded in my memory - a fawn being born, a dragonfly emerging from it’s nymph casing, a mother fox calling to her kits as we walked along the south trail and the morning I came in to work to find the prairie full of hundreds of Argiope (garden spiders) orb webs in the morning dew. Over the decades, my husband, Duane and I have shared many more breathtaking moments in nature with our two daughters, Nicole and Lisa; and now with our five grandsons; Weston, Bode, Carson, Jackson, Bear and our granddaughter, Scout. Our grandchildren like to go to “Nana’s nature center.” We are creating priceless memories shared with family and friends. The hours spent in King’s Woods inspired me to go to college and get a degree in Park and Recreation Administration and a minor in Forestry from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities campus. I returned to Austin to marry the hometown boy, Duane Champlin, and start a family. I started volunteering at the JCHNC with Vince Shay and Larry Dolphin in the late 1980’s. I was elected as a member of the Friends Board and taught part-time summer adventure classes and environmental education curriculum for preschool through high school. I was hired part time in 1995 and in 2000, I began to work full time as a naturalist/teacher and administrative assistant. My job responsibilities have evolved over time, teaching, administrative work and raptor rescues; 78 rescues and counting. My husband, Duane, has assisted with many of these rescues too! He has been a trooper when the rescue calls have come in at all hours of the day and night. There has also been raptor care and triage, fundraising and more. This career has been both rewarding and challenging. I love the fact that I learn something new about nature every day! As I reflect back on all the memories of the past 50 years I probably should write a book on the five decades, each one a different chapter in how this very special place has grown. Natural places like this jewel in the cornfields of Minnesota are a blessing. Thank you Larry Dolphin and Luke Reese for being excellent role models and supervisors. I have had the privilege and honor of working with truly remarkable and dedicated people of all ages. Thank you all for contributing to this journey. Working at the JCHNC has been one of the great joys in my life. Thank you, Mother Nature, for giving me your gifts that take my breath away! |
April 29th - Kim Underwood
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Growing up I remember when the Nature Center was called “King’s Woods”; a place that scared us with all the stories of people holding séance’s in the woods, YIKES!
Our family did a lot of camping which introduced me to the woods, a great place to play and build forts! I have always and still do enjoy being in the woods, walking or riding a horse on trails. I was introduced to cross country skiing at the Nature Center in the late 70’s, which was a blast. Back then I always thought the Nature Center would be a great place to work! Luck came my way in 1982 I started working at the Austin Park and Recreation Department, not in the same building but I was a little closer. One of my favorite classes at the Nature Center was participating in the wreath and candle making class. When our children were in school, it was wonderful that Larry Dolphin and our Educators put together curriculum holding classes at the Nature Center to learn maple syruping and all the wonders that the woods, ponds, and prairies hold. Halloween Warm Up was a scary but fun event to take the kids to. Of course, our grandchildren have been introduced to the Nature Center and as they grow there will be new adventures for them to enjoy each time they visit the Center. Working in the Department gave me the inside scoop on many of the improvements that happened during the rest of the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s to the present, making the Nature Center what it is today. Being involved with “Larry’s Dream” of the new Interpretative Center was an extremely rewarding project, from the vision to being involved with the building progress. Thanks to Nature Center Staff, past, present, and future, the many dedicated volunteers that chased donations and grants for land acquisition’s, buildings, prairie restoration, and the Boards that helped to see the vision become a reality. We are lucking we have such a wonderful facility in our Community. Most of you reading this know what I mean, for the others if you have not been there you should put it on your bucket list for 2021! |
May 6th - Bob Roberts
1964 was a good year for Bob Roberts as he took his first teaching job with the Elkton School District which consolidated with two other districts to become Southland. Thus began a fifty one year love affair with the environs of Mower County and Southeast Minnesota.
Richard Birger invited the Southeast Minnesota Science Teachers group to hold their monthly meeting at JCHNC and after took them on a tour of the grounds. The group was impressed and I was hooked. Vince Shay asked me to help him with a fresh water stream workshop he was setting up for a group of Austin High School students. This was in the early 70s and there was very little text materials on Ecology. Since I had started a fresh water Ecology Class at Southland, this was a chance to get some “free” ecology information for my class.
Since I was seen around the Nature Center so much, I was asked to become a member of the Friends of JCHNC board, filling the position of Colleen Weimer. In the scheme of things board members were supposed to cycle through the offices. Eventually becoming president. Which I had no interest in becoming. During this time The Austin City Council was experiencing some budget concerns, and the rumor began to circulate that the funding for Julie's Nature Center Assistant’s position was in danger. It was very obvious to me that there was no way that the center could operate without Julie.
Solution - host a fundraising dinner. Thus was born the Thanksgiving Feast. The Friends group decided that since it was my idea, I should become chair. Thus, I avoided becoming president, and agreed to chair the Feast committee I am pretty sure it would have been easier to be president, but, oh well. The Thanksgiving Feast became an annual event. As it became more and more profitable not only did it save Julie's job, but the proceeds are now used to sponsor a full time intern. We even used Larry's prairie Chicken Dance which was always good for a laugh and big dollars.
In the years following my wife's death I welcomed five exchange students into my home. As a part of their program they needed to do some volunteer work and the Nature Center was one of the places they sought out. The Ruby Rupner Auditorium became the go to for their farewell open houses. My second job as a florist found me decorating the covered bridge and Ruby Rupner Auditorium for weddings and receptions.
Perhaps the most memorable event happened when I took it upon myself to trim the shrubs on the west side of the old building. My philosophy in bush trimming is; thin them out and cut 'em back. Needless to say Larry was a little alarmed when he saw the results of my efforts. He was sure that I had killed them. I am happy to say the shrubs responded to my butchery and were still there when the old building was removed. There is a very special name plaque on one of the benches in the Welcome Circle and I hope someday my name will join Sue's there.
Yes, the JCHNC was a place which I used to gain knowledge about the ecosystems of Mower County. It was information which I took back to my students at Southland High School. Said students have become adults, and leaders in Mower Co, in Minnesota and the world. It is my desire that they will use this ecological information to make sound decisions in their jobs, and lives. That they will bring their families to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center where they can become one with the wonders of our natural ecosystems.
Richard Birger invited the Southeast Minnesota Science Teachers group to hold their monthly meeting at JCHNC and after took them on a tour of the grounds. The group was impressed and I was hooked. Vince Shay asked me to help him with a fresh water stream workshop he was setting up for a group of Austin High School students. This was in the early 70s and there was very little text materials on Ecology. Since I had started a fresh water Ecology Class at Southland, this was a chance to get some “free” ecology information for my class.
Since I was seen around the Nature Center so much, I was asked to become a member of the Friends of JCHNC board, filling the position of Colleen Weimer. In the scheme of things board members were supposed to cycle through the offices. Eventually becoming president. Which I had no interest in becoming. During this time The Austin City Council was experiencing some budget concerns, and the rumor began to circulate that the funding for Julie's Nature Center Assistant’s position was in danger. It was very obvious to me that there was no way that the center could operate without Julie.
Solution - host a fundraising dinner. Thus was born the Thanksgiving Feast. The Friends group decided that since it was my idea, I should become chair. Thus, I avoided becoming president, and agreed to chair the Feast committee I am pretty sure it would have been easier to be president, but, oh well. The Thanksgiving Feast became an annual event. As it became more and more profitable not only did it save Julie's job, but the proceeds are now used to sponsor a full time intern. We even used Larry's prairie Chicken Dance which was always good for a laugh and big dollars.
In the years following my wife's death I welcomed five exchange students into my home. As a part of their program they needed to do some volunteer work and the Nature Center was one of the places they sought out. The Ruby Rupner Auditorium became the go to for their farewell open houses. My second job as a florist found me decorating the covered bridge and Ruby Rupner Auditorium for weddings and receptions.
Perhaps the most memorable event happened when I took it upon myself to trim the shrubs on the west side of the old building. My philosophy in bush trimming is; thin them out and cut 'em back. Needless to say Larry was a little alarmed when he saw the results of my efforts. He was sure that I had killed them. I am happy to say the shrubs responded to my butchery and were still there when the old building was removed. There is a very special name plaque on one of the benches in the Welcome Circle and I hope someday my name will join Sue's there.
Yes, the JCHNC was a place which I used to gain knowledge about the ecosystems of Mower County. It was information which I took back to my students at Southland High School. Said students have become adults, and leaders in Mower Co, in Minnesota and the world. It is my desire that they will use this ecological information to make sound decisions in their jobs, and lives. That they will bring their families to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center where they can become one with the wonders of our natural ecosystems.
May 13th - The Burkharts
Philip Burkhart -
I guess you could say we are a nature-loving family. Because of that, the Hormel Nature Center has been an integral part of our lives since we moved to Austin in 1982. My wife Eileen and I, along with our two children and four grandchildren, have very much enjoyed its natural beauty and its recreational and educational programs. Three generations of Burkharts have now been involved in various ways with the workings of the Nature Center. I served on the Feast Committee and am presently a volunteer. My son Jon was a summer intern, and Jon’s son Jacob was also a summer intern. Jacob went on to perform jazz concerts in the Ruby Rupner Auditorium at the Nature Center.
We have many great memories. Eileen and I would often walk along the Pine Loop watching for deer. Eileen, a social worker, would bring clients for therapeutic walks on the paved trail. When Jon was young he loved to pet the snakes and search for the salamander, a skill he passed on to his son Jacob. When they were youngsters, Jon and his brother Bob always enjoyed the curiosities of the old interpretive center, especially the skulls. When their children came along they loved hiking the trails, visiting the new interpretative center, kayaking, and cross country skiing. In addition, it’s always a thrill to give our out-of-town guests a tour of that amazing new interpretative center.
One of my favorite memories is of the time I was giving a cart tour for a group from Taiwan. Only the leader could speak English so she translated for the rest of the group. As we started the tour someone asked if we would see any deer. (The leader informed me that they do not see deer in their natural habitat in Taiwan and were really hoping to see some.) I told her I couldn’t promise anything, but I would certainly do my best. Well, the tour progressed with the usual flower identifications and a visit to the tower but, unfortunately, no deer. But everyone seemed to be having a good time, chatting and laughing as we rode. I, however, was growing desperate for a deer sighting as we neared the end of the trip and decided to take a slight detour into the pines. When I stopped the cart and asked them to take in the pine scent, I got no response. Absolute silence. When I turned around I saw them all staring into the woods, transfixed by the sight of six deer grazing nearby. I will never forget the look of wonder in their eyes. I realized again what a wonderful gift this nature center has been and will continue to be for generations to come.
Jon Burkhart -
It sounds cliché, but I actually did grow up at the Nature Center. We lived only a few blocks away and the “Center” quickly became a cherished place. As a young boy the Center was just a cool wooded area with trails to run around in, climb trees, and play in the creek. As I got older I began to understand that it was much more than that. I felt at home in the woods and the prairie, in the summer heat and winters cold. Cross country skiing was a favorite activity for my brother Robert and I.
Getting to know Larry and Julie was a big reason I attended UW-Stevens Point to begin studying Natural Resources.
I was delighted to serve as an intern the first summer after college. Larry was an amazing mentor, his kindness and love of nature was an inspiration. Julie taught me how to care for all the critters in the building. Red the Hawk escaped from her cage one day and was flying around the buildings teasing us. I loved working with the snakes, it was a rare treat to feed them live mice. The Root River canoe trip was a great way to teach kids to handle a canoe and explore nature. My career in natural resources never took off but I learned so much and gained valuable experience from the intern program.
When Jacob was born I couldn’t wait to show him the beauty of the Center. Sara and I watched him “Grow Up” walking the trails and playing in the creek. He of course loved the reptiles in the building and the birds and mammals of the forest. He loved going to visit Larry and Julie and they always took time to see him. As Jacob got older, he enjoyed showing his younger sisters Hannah and Mya the joys of nature. Cross country skiing was a wonderful family activity. Watching a child discover a love of nature is a feeling second to none.
I was overjoyed when Jacob began his internship with Larry and Julie. He was a natural with the kids and worked great with the animals. He developed a bond with Guka the owl and got to experience working in the beautiful new interpretive building. I was so proud when he developed a biking program for the kids as they discovered the bike trails around Austin. And of course, hearing Jacob and his Jazz quintet play in the Rupner Auditorium was amazing. To our family, the Hormel Nature Center has been much more than a place of woods and water. I hope we will enjoy it for generations to come.
Jacob Burkhart, 2016/2017 Intern Story -
Nature has always been close to my heart. From a young age, my family took me fishing, canoeing, and camping around Austin and throughout Minnesota. These early experiences with the outdoors instilled an appreciation for nature that has stuck with me, even as I moved on to college.
I was born and raised in Austin, and I graduated from Austin High School in 2015. After graduation, I enrolled in college at the University of Minnesota Duluth. This fall, I will be returning for my sophomore year to continue pursuing my Bachelor of Arts degree in Instrumental Music Education. This year I will also be working for the university as a Resident Advisor in a residence hall.
With a full schedule of classes, studying, and instrument practice, it’s easy to get stressed out and weighed down. Spending time in nature is how I’ve learned to relieve that stress and recharge. My favorite hobbies bring me outdoors—I am an avid cyclist and photographer, and Duluth offers world-class opportunities for both. When I’m all studied out and my face is sore from playing trumpet, going out for a ride on the trail or taking pictures by Lake Superior is a better remedy than being inside in front of a screen could ever be.
Thinking back, I’ve had so many positive experiences at the Nature Center. Whether it was my father taking me to see the salamanders and snakes when I was a toddler, field trips with school, skiing in the winter, or hiking in the summer, the Nature Center has always been a fun and formative part of my life for as long as I can remember. When the opportunity came to be employed here, I was very excited to work at a place full of happy memories, where I had learned so much as a kid. My favorite part of working at Jay C. Hormel Nature Center has to be teaching. I have been very fortunate to observe and learn from all of the amazing educators here at the Nature Center. I have enjoyed the opportunity to assist in teaching subjects that I find both important and interesting.
I would like to thank the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center for supporting my position and giving me the chance to work at such an incredible place. This past summer, I looked forward to coming in to work every day; I could truly say I love my job.
I guess you could say we are a nature-loving family. Because of that, the Hormel Nature Center has been an integral part of our lives since we moved to Austin in 1982. My wife Eileen and I, along with our two children and four grandchildren, have very much enjoyed its natural beauty and its recreational and educational programs. Three generations of Burkharts have now been involved in various ways with the workings of the Nature Center. I served on the Feast Committee and am presently a volunteer. My son Jon was a summer intern, and Jon’s son Jacob was also a summer intern. Jacob went on to perform jazz concerts in the Ruby Rupner Auditorium at the Nature Center.
We have many great memories. Eileen and I would often walk along the Pine Loop watching for deer. Eileen, a social worker, would bring clients for therapeutic walks on the paved trail. When Jon was young he loved to pet the snakes and search for the salamander, a skill he passed on to his son Jacob. When they were youngsters, Jon and his brother Bob always enjoyed the curiosities of the old interpretive center, especially the skulls. When their children came along they loved hiking the trails, visiting the new interpretative center, kayaking, and cross country skiing. In addition, it’s always a thrill to give our out-of-town guests a tour of that amazing new interpretative center.
One of my favorite memories is of the time I was giving a cart tour for a group from Taiwan. Only the leader could speak English so she translated for the rest of the group. As we started the tour someone asked if we would see any deer. (The leader informed me that they do not see deer in their natural habitat in Taiwan and were really hoping to see some.) I told her I couldn’t promise anything, but I would certainly do my best. Well, the tour progressed with the usual flower identifications and a visit to the tower but, unfortunately, no deer. But everyone seemed to be having a good time, chatting and laughing as we rode. I, however, was growing desperate for a deer sighting as we neared the end of the trip and decided to take a slight detour into the pines. When I stopped the cart and asked them to take in the pine scent, I got no response. Absolute silence. When I turned around I saw them all staring into the woods, transfixed by the sight of six deer grazing nearby. I will never forget the look of wonder in their eyes. I realized again what a wonderful gift this nature center has been and will continue to be for generations to come.
Jon Burkhart -
It sounds cliché, but I actually did grow up at the Nature Center. We lived only a few blocks away and the “Center” quickly became a cherished place. As a young boy the Center was just a cool wooded area with trails to run around in, climb trees, and play in the creek. As I got older I began to understand that it was much more than that. I felt at home in the woods and the prairie, in the summer heat and winters cold. Cross country skiing was a favorite activity for my brother Robert and I.
Getting to know Larry and Julie was a big reason I attended UW-Stevens Point to begin studying Natural Resources.
I was delighted to serve as an intern the first summer after college. Larry was an amazing mentor, his kindness and love of nature was an inspiration. Julie taught me how to care for all the critters in the building. Red the Hawk escaped from her cage one day and was flying around the buildings teasing us. I loved working with the snakes, it was a rare treat to feed them live mice. The Root River canoe trip was a great way to teach kids to handle a canoe and explore nature. My career in natural resources never took off but I learned so much and gained valuable experience from the intern program.
When Jacob was born I couldn’t wait to show him the beauty of the Center. Sara and I watched him “Grow Up” walking the trails and playing in the creek. He of course loved the reptiles in the building and the birds and mammals of the forest. He loved going to visit Larry and Julie and they always took time to see him. As Jacob got older, he enjoyed showing his younger sisters Hannah and Mya the joys of nature. Cross country skiing was a wonderful family activity. Watching a child discover a love of nature is a feeling second to none.
I was overjoyed when Jacob began his internship with Larry and Julie. He was a natural with the kids and worked great with the animals. He developed a bond with Guka the owl and got to experience working in the beautiful new interpretive building. I was so proud when he developed a biking program for the kids as they discovered the bike trails around Austin. And of course, hearing Jacob and his Jazz quintet play in the Rupner Auditorium was amazing. To our family, the Hormel Nature Center has been much more than a place of woods and water. I hope we will enjoy it for generations to come.
Jacob Burkhart, 2016/2017 Intern Story -
Nature has always been close to my heart. From a young age, my family took me fishing, canoeing, and camping around Austin and throughout Minnesota. These early experiences with the outdoors instilled an appreciation for nature that has stuck with me, even as I moved on to college.
I was born and raised in Austin, and I graduated from Austin High School in 2015. After graduation, I enrolled in college at the University of Minnesota Duluth. This fall, I will be returning for my sophomore year to continue pursuing my Bachelor of Arts degree in Instrumental Music Education. This year I will also be working for the university as a Resident Advisor in a residence hall.
With a full schedule of classes, studying, and instrument practice, it’s easy to get stressed out and weighed down. Spending time in nature is how I’ve learned to relieve that stress and recharge. My favorite hobbies bring me outdoors—I am an avid cyclist and photographer, and Duluth offers world-class opportunities for both. When I’m all studied out and my face is sore from playing trumpet, going out for a ride on the trail or taking pictures by Lake Superior is a better remedy than being inside in front of a screen could ever be.
Thinking back, I’ve had so many positive experiences at the Nature Center. Whether it was my father taking me to see the salamanders and snakes when I was a toddler, field trips with school, skiing in the winter, or hiking in the summer, the Nature Center has always been a fun and formative part of my life for as long as I can remember. When the opportunity came to be employed here, I was very excited to work at a place full of happy memories, where I had learned so much as a kid. My favorite part of working at Jay C. Hormel Nature Center has to be teaching. I have been very fortunate to observe and learn from all of the amazing educators here at the Nature Center. I have enjoyed the opportunity to assist in teaching subjects that I find both important and interesting.
I would like to thank the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center for supporting my position and giving me the chance to work at such an incredible place. This past summer, I looked forward to coming in to work every day; I could truly say I love my job.
May 20th - Melanie and Taylor Miland
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Melanie - Thank you for letting me reflect on my days spent working at Jay C. Hormel Nature Center (JCHNC). My name in 1981 was Melanie Bayer and it was my first year enrolled as the very last Environmental Technician Program student at Austin Community College. I was hired as a student intern, reinforcing my future goal to protect and improve the environment, and worked with naturalist/director, Vince Shay; nature center assistant, Mary Anderson; land manager, Dan Clayton; and student intern, Jeff Averbeck.
JCHNC enabled me to impact and teach others about the environment through the special sanctuary gifted by the Hormel family to the City for community members to behold and enjoy. As a small child, my parents would take me and my sisters to (what was formerly known as) King’s Woods where we would access the cement bridge from the, then public, roadway to watch the water rush through the big culvert where it would flow into Dobbins Creek. Many years later as a college student, I was given the opportunity to share the importance of clean water and environmental stewardship. So many experiences were acquired throughout my five years and included opportunities to handle and care for snakes, salamanders, owls, hawks, birds, bees and even baby fawns when nature left them without their mother; teaching young and old about nature; helping with craft classes and dipping many bees wax candles; and, during the snowy winter months, providing cross-country ski rental and instruction. With every visit, I cannot walk the trails without noticing the large ‘climbing rock’ that sits just east of Ruby Rupner Auditorium. In 1985, near the end of my tenure, this landmark was moved from Todd Park to JCHNC while I worked – certainly not a typical day’s work and an event I will never forget! During my oldest daughter’s college years, Taylor was also given the opportunity to work as a JCHNC student intern. Perhaps, the next time you visit the Interpretive Center, you might discover her artistic talent displayed in various art forms or hear about her memories made with JCHNC’s special owl, Guka. After many years and many miles walked throughout the woods and prairies, JCHNC has been so generous to me, my life, and my family and blessed us with so many wonderful memories including those created with my two daughters who are now grown and on their own. My girls were fortunate to have been able to attend nature classes, cross-country ski, canoe the ponds and streams, walk the trails, and participate in Pioneer Days and Halloween Warm-ups. Now they are able to share and make memories of their own with their future generations. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share a few memories that JCHNC has yielded to me in great bounty! Taylor - My time working as a past intern and naturalist at JCNC is filled with many amazing memories and experiences over the years. I have been so fortunate to have been given the opportunity to create many pieces of artwork, designs, and logo for the Sola Fide Observatory while learning, growing, and teaching as a naturalist. Many memories come to mind: the trails through the pines pass on the way to the fire tower with my family; taking overnight canoe trips with Larry Dolphin down the Root River to the Mississippi River; and finding strange alien-like river bugs along our way; and one of my favorite memories, probably one of the scariest, was the time Guka the resident barred owl managed to escape under the netting of the old JCNC building (August 17th, 2014 was the day of his epic escape). I was tasked with running through the woods with a super soaker filled with soapy water in catching him with other staff members (Sammie Petersen, Maria & Chris Andersen & Larry Dolphin). I will never forget Larry pulling up in his van as I was setting out mice all over perch posts outside of the visitor center and trying to build the courage to tell him the bad news that Guka somehow squeezed his body through the little spot in the enclosure and escaped. After many hours of running through the woods, we managed to shoot him down (in the most humane way I promise). The weight of the soapy water weighed his wings down and we managed to take him back to the office and cleaned him off. I look back now and chuckle about running through the woods with squirt guns, waiving around dead mice in hopes he would fly down and perch on our gloves. Guka's time of freedom is one of my favorite legendary stories. I like to reminisce and re-tell that story about the incredible bond I have with him. I am so fortunate to have such a strong bond with Guka over the years that I worked at JCHNC and still cherish the time I get to spend with him walking the trails, and feeding him when I come back to Austin to visit. |
May 27th - Alex Watson
I’ve been privileged to know this park in many ways. As a son hiking with his father. As a student on a field trip. As a teen playing in the tall grass with friends. As an intern teacher-naturalist leading others. As a father hiking with his son. So, what have I learned from here? So far, a few things stand out.
Space. Space matters. This place gave me space that worked for me. It was accessible in a way that made me welcome. Not everyone feels safe or welcome in the outdoors. Keeping and enhancing public nature space in a way that includes everyone is ongoing work.
Change. The Nature Center has taught me that big change can and will happen over just a few years. Examples include the huge numbers of migrating monarch butterflies I watched and chased through the restored prairies as a boy. This past year, they were considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act, their populations 75% lower today than my childhood. While this is sad and discouraging, especially considering there are many other species I love also showing big declines, I am left with hope from another lesson Nature Center has taught me.
Habitat. Habitat works. If you build it, save it, conserve it, and restore it in just the right amount, people, plants, animals, waters and soil all will have a place to support each other. While the big decision to save the Nature Center for us was made 50 years ago, I will try and do my best to practice the most important lesson the Nature Center has taught me-responsibility. I am responsible for my choices. My choices have power. How I choose to conduct myself away from the Nature Center indirectly supports or erodes its mission. If I do my best and keep the future in mind, I know the Nature Center will be around, full of plants and animals, full of clean water, for a very long time.
Space. Space matters. This place gave me space that worked for me. It was accessible in a way that made me welcome. Not everyone feels safe or welcome in the outdoors. Keeping and enhancing public nature space in a way that includes everyone is ongoing work.
Change. The Nature Center has taught me that big change can and will happen over just a few years. Examples include the huge numbers of migrating monarch butterflies I watched and chased through the restored prairies as a boy. This past year, they were considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act, their populations 75% lower today than my childhood. While this is sad and discouraging, especially considering there are many other species I love also showing big declines, I am left with hope from another lesson Nature Center has taught me.
Habitat. Habitat works. If you build it, save it, conserve it, and restore it in just the right amount, people, plants, animals, waters and soil all will have a place to support each other. While the big decision to save the Nature Center for us was made 50 years ago, I will try and do my best to practice the most important lesson the Nature Center has taught me-responsibility. I am responsible for my choices. My choices have power. How I choose to conduct myself away from the Nature Center indirectly supports or erodes its mission. If I do my best and keep the future in mind, I know the Nature Center will be around, full of plants and animals, full of clean water, for a very long time.
June 3rd - The Mueller Family
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Ever since moving to Austin in 1995, the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center has played a big part in our family memories. Our three children, Alex (26), Bailey (24) and Andrew (20), started attending classes and events before they were even in school. From David Stokes preschool classes to Nature Survival and overnight canoeing trips they have attended them all.
However, we did not fully appreciate the nature center until we became members of the Friends of Hormel Nature Center board and were able to experience a bit more in depth what goes on behind the scenes. Up until that point, we were familiar with the trails that we could walk and the classes that were offered for our children. But there is so much more to experience and explore. The staff, interns, mentors, and volunteers at the center are dedicated to providing programs and activities for all ages, not just children. Concerts, storytelling, wreath making classes, cross country skiing, canoeing and event center rental, to name just a few. All of which come at a cost not entirely covered by the City of Austin’s budget. One way that this is accomplished is through the Annual Thanksgiving Feast fundraiser that supplements the funding for interns and the development of the numerous programs offered at the Hormel Nature Center. Throughout the years, our entire family has had the opportunity to assist with this in one way or another. Annette has helped with table decorating and has acted as Julie Champlin’s assistant for several years. While Alex, Bailey or Andrew have consistently worked the “Turkey Pluck”. And most recently, Kurt held the Chairperson position for a highly successful Feast in 2019. We have all enjoyed our roles in supporting the Friends with this fundraiser and cannot say enough about the commitment the community has in supporting this important event, as well. In reflecting on all that Jay C. Hormel Nature Center has meant to our family over the years, we have special memories of graduation photos taken in the tall prairie grasses on the property, a Prom dinner and two wonderful graduation parties held in Ruby Rupner Auditorium. Also, the boys would reminisce about their trips canoeing down the Root River and staying at Eagle Bluff with Mr. Dolphin. They had so much fun, even with Mr. Dolphin’s snoring. While Bailey seemed more focused on the educational classes she experienced, like cranking the press to make delicious Apple Cider in the fall and tapping the maple trees to gather sap for syrup in the spring. One of her favorite memories involved helping her friend, Maggie, with a full pail of maple sap that ended up down the front of both of them! These were just a few of the tales we have heard over the years. Regardless of the tale being told or the event being held, one thing is for certain, we have learned a lot about nature and ourselves while making memories that will last a lifetime at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. We will always be grateful to Jay Hormel, the staff and volunteers that have worked so hard to make it possible. |
June 10th - Cheryl Dunlap
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My first major experiences at the JC Hormel Nature Center began by collaborating with Larry Dolphin and Julie Champlin representing the Nature Center and a group of sixth grade teachers from Austin Public Schools. We had received a grant to write curriculum including experiences for students at the Nature Center that fit perfectly into our Environmental Science study. The experiences centered around water quality. The joint curriculum allowed students to get hands on experience testing the waters of Dobbins Creek and Cedar River. Students explored riffle areas searching for wet bug life that would help determine the quality of the water. We also tested pH levels, temperatures, etc. Findings were tallied and charted, final reports were sent to the state as official studies. The students felt their work was important and relevant. Over the years we had many fun and interesting experiences! Nearly every year someone ended up wet by slipping in the stream or going too deep for their boots. Some years it was so hot we needed to be aware of hydrating; other years it was REALLY cold and there would be many volunteers for shore duties. As a part of the unit the Izaak Walton League helped secure Dr. Dean Hanson who spent a day at Ellis Middle School teaching each sixth grade class how to identify Wet Bugs. It was helpful to see live critters before we did the actual research. It helped students to find and identify much more accurately when doing the field work. We also worked with the City of Austin to have each class tour the Water Treatment Plant to get an understanding of the treatment of waste water allowing it to be returned to the river. We are very proud of the thousands of students over the years who were able to experience the practical work at the Nature Center. They loved the experience and many times over the years as I met students later in life they would reminisce about this experience. A similar project continues to present time with Ellis students.
As educators we are so fortunate to have the Jay C Hormel Nature Center and the staff who work there in our community. We were able share experiences with the students such as cross country skiing, owl studies, wolf studies, sometimes at the Nature Center and sometimes with Nature Center staff coming to the classroom. I have many fond memories of spending time with my own grandchildren exploring the Nature Center. It is always fun to make it all the way out to the tower. A definite highlight was finding a blue spotted salamander with my grandson. Also we love searching for the tadpoles and other critters throughout the different seasons. My grandchildren LOVE the exhibits in the new building. The Nature Center programs are very enjoyable, both involving music and information. I have attended many programs over the years and hope to continue attending many more programs and enjoying many more hikes and explorations. The Jay C Hormel Nature Center is an absolute jewel in our community. I have enjoyed it since 1971 when we moved to Austin through the present. I encourage all age groups to come and enjoy all it has to offer you. |
June 17th - Sherry and Terry Taylor
EARLY TRAILS -- As a member of the Minnesota National Guard (Austin
unit) we constructed some of the first trails in the nature center, during the early/mid 70's , using railroad ties to mark the trails. This was a "community service project".
AN EARLY EXPERIENCE AT HNC -- On a sultry Summer Sunday afternoon, I took our daughter to the Nature Center for a "hike in the woods" dressed in shorts and tank tops. When we reached the turn around point of our hike, the mosquitoes descended on us with a vengeance. It was a sudden reminder, for a former Boy Scout, to always be prepared - we were NOT.
PERSONAL CONNECTIONS -- Our first home in Austin (1972) was next door to the Gordon Lonning family. Gordon was a science teacher, early advocate and board member for the HNC. His family was present for the dedication ceremony at the new visitor center in 2017, which includes the "Gordon Lonning Library".
AUDUBON & THE HORMEL NATURE CENTER -- Sherry & I joined the Austin Audubon Society in the early 2000's and soon recognized the close partnership between Austin Audubon and HNC. Audubon has used the HNC facilities for our meetings and public programs. HNC has been the site for our spring birding hikes (for the public). Audubon volunteers have supported the educational programming and made contributions to the Summer youth scholarship programs. This partnership was a key component of our Austin Chapter receiving the official "BIRD CITY'' designation from the Minnesota Audubon in September of 2019. The HNC is the official site of our annual "Bird City Celebration. In 2020 we assumed responsibility for monitoring a Bluebird trail at the Nature Center that is part of a statewide "citizen science" project in cooperation with the Bluebird Recovery project sponsored by Minnesota Audubon.
FRIENDS OF THE HORMEL NATURE CENTER -- is another important connection for Sherry & I. We have actively participated in the annual Thanksgiving Feast fundraiser for the past 20 years. Serving on the feast committee and considering it a major social event of the year. This event has provided funding for a continuous line of outstanding interns who have contributed immeasurably to the educational program quality at HNC. As"friends" members, we have served on the "Friends" board and volunteered in numerous roles supporting the activities & programming at HNC. These personal relationships with the HNC & staff has greatly enhanced our quality of life in Austin.
unit) we constructed some of the first trails in the nature center, during the early/mid 70's , using railroad ties to mark the trails. This was a "community service project".
AN EARLY EXPERIENCE AT HNC -- On a sultry Summer Sunday afternoon, I took our daughter to the Nature Center for a "hike in the woods" dressed in shorts and tank tops. When we reached the turn around point of our hike, the mosquitoes descended on us with a vengeance. It was a sudden reminder, for a former Boy Scout, to always be prepared - we were NOT.
PERSONAL CONNECTIONS -- Our first home in Austin (1972) was next door to the Gordon Lonning family. Gordon was a science teacher, early advocate and board member for the HNC. His family was present for the dedication ceremony at the new visitor center in 2017, which includes the "Gordon Lonning Library".
AUDUBON & THE HORMEL NATURE CENTER -- Sherry & I joined the Austin Audubon Society in the early 2000's and soon recognized the close partnership between Austin Audubon and HNC. Audubon has used the HNC facilities for our meetings and public programs. HNC has been the site for our spring birding hikes (for the public). Audubon volunteers have supported the educational programming and made contributions to the Summer youth scholarship programs. This partnership was a key component of our Austin Chapter receiving the official "BIRD CITY'' designation from the Minnesota Audubon in September of 2019. The HNC is the official site of our annual "Bird City Celebration. In 2020 we assumed responsibility for monitoring a Bluebird trail at the Nature Center that is part of a statewide "citizen science" project in cooperation with the Bluebird Recovery project sponsored by Minnesota Audubon.
FRIENDS OF THE HORMEL NATURE CENTER -- is another important connection for Sherry & I. We have actively participated in the annual Thanksgiving Feast fundraiser for the past 20 years. Serving on the feast committee and considering it a major social event of the year. This event has provided funding for a continuous line of outstanding interns who have contributed immeasurably to the educational program quality at HNC. As"friends" members, we have served on the "Friends" board and volunteered in numerous roles supporting the activities & programming at HNC. These personal relationships with the HNC & staff has greatly enhanced our quality of life in Austin.
June 24th - Eric Johnson
A few years ago, as a snow storm began dropping its thick flakes, I spent the late afternoon walking through the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center.
The light was fading fast, the snow was gaining momentum and the trails vanished beneath the newly falling snow. So did my footsteps.
Not that I was lost necessarily — I would imagine it’s fairly hard to get truly lost at the Nature Center — but suddenly it dawned on me just how all the trees looked alike.
I was deep enough into the Nature Center that it was easy enough to get turned around in the amount of snow we had received, resulting in an awfully long walk if I didn’t figure things out.
But you know what? I was never so happy to be lost. It was quiet within the Nature Center — that winter quiet where the wind somehow sounds different, subdued.
The Nature Center has always been a sort of escape that distracts the mind from the everyday stresses.
It’s a place to put the cellphone away and walk with nature. In comparison to Itasca State Park, where I spent a good amount of time when on family vacation, the Nature Center is small, but it holds within a large amount of discovery, belying its smallish size.
This is a credit to its staff, that over the years I have had the pleasure of working with in a professional capacity. I can count a large number of job-related experiences that are centered around or at the Nature Center.
What I’ve discovered is how much the staff cares about the Nature Center, both as a natural resource, and as an educational resource.
For many, the Nature Center is a direct link to nature and provides us an opportunity to learn, just by walking its paths.
And if it requires getting lost in a snowstorm, then I’ll gladly get lost anytime.
The light was fading fast, the snow was gaining momentum and the trails vanished beneath the newly falling snow. So did my footsteps.
Not that I was lost necessarily — I would imagine it’s fairly hard to get truly lost at the Nature Center — but suddenly it dawned on me just how all the trees looked alike.
I was deep enough into the Nature Center that it was easy enough to get turned around in the amount of snow we had received, resulting in an awfully long walk if I didn’t figure things out.
But you know what? I was never so happy to be lost. It was quiet within the Nature Center — that winter quiet where the wind somehow sounds different, subdued.
The Nature Center has always been a sort of escape that distracts the mind from the everyday stresses.
It’s a place to put the cellphone away and walk with nature. In comparison to Itasca State Park, where I spent a good amount of time when on family vacation, the Nature Center is small, but it holds within a large amount of discovery, belying its smallish size.
This is a credit to its staff, that over the years I have had the pleasure of working with in a professional capacity. I can count a large number of job-related experiences that are centered around or at the Nature Center.
What I’ve discovered is how much the staff cares about the Nature Center, both as a natural resource, and as an educational resource.
For many, the Nature Center is a direct link to nature and provides us an opportunity to learn, just by walking its paths.
And if it requires getting lost in a snowstorm, then I’ll gladly get lost anytime.
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July 1st - Katherine and John Schramek
Katherine -
My journey at the Nature Center started with the Dammen Summer Mentee program. I spent two years participating in this, and the memories that came from this are still strong in my mind. Being able to help out with classes and get hands - on with activities made these summers so much fun. I remember talking to people from different places around the country, and I was glad to share a part of Austin with them.
The mentee program eventually lead me to being a part of ski and snowshoe rental. Here, I attempted to learn how to embrace the harsh winter season and how to cross country ski while helping out others. While I’ve found beauty in the winter seasons at the Nature Center, I still have yet to master my skiing skills. I loved being able to help families that came in, knowing that memories were being created. To be able to take part in something small like a family ski day that would be remembered for a long time to come meant a lot to me.
When I started to apply to college, I had to consider what I would major in and spend the rest of my life doing. I always thought back to the Nature Center. I had nothing but great experiences in the short amount of time I’ve spent here, and my experiences here lead me to choose my major in Environmental and Outdoor Education. I’m so grateful to the Nature Center for allowing me to place my roots and grow into something I’m passionate about. I can’t wait to see what the future has to offer in this field.
John -
Growing up in Northern MN I often took advantage of the nearby lakes to go for a paddle, the nearby forests to go for a nice hike. On a long weekend maybe travel to SW MN to visit some grassland prairies. Now living in Austin I can find those activities right in the local area.
When we first arrived in town, nearly 20 years ago, we discovered the JC Hormel Nature Center. It was a wonderful place to enroll our young children in nature classes and get them involved in outdoor activities.
Often while waiting for classes to wrap up I would take to the trails and get in a quick hike rather than just sit in the car and wait for my daughters to come out and share their experiences during the ride home.
Now I often visit the Nature Center as a quick respite for the demands of life. It is such a joy to stand amongst the tall pines on a drizzly, warm summer day and take a deep breath. It is a smell that can’t be explained, it needs to be experienced.
Watching deer bound through the tall grass in the early morning hours is another pleasure. Or just spending a few minutes listening to the waters of Dobbins creek is another wonderful way to take a break and clear your mind.
The JC Hormel Nature Center is a treasure for myself, my family, and the community. Here’s to many more years of preserving and teaching the wonders of the outdoors.
My journey at the Nature Center started with the Dammen Summer Mentee program. I spent two years participating in this, and the memories that came from this are still strong in my mind. Being able to help out with classes and get hands - on with activities made these summers so much fun. I remember talking to people from different places around the country, and I was glad to share a part of Austin with them.
The mentee program eventually lead me to being a part of ski and snowshoe rental. Here, I attempted to learn how to embrace the harsh winter season and how to cross country ski while helping out others. While I’ve found beauty in the winter seasons at the Nature Center, I still have yet to master my skiing skills. I loved being able to help families that came in, knowing that memories were being created. To be able to take part in something small like a family ski day that would be remembered for a long time to come meant a lot to me.
When I started to apply to college, I had to consider what I would major in and spend the rest of my life doing. I always thought back to the Nature Center. I had nothing but great experiences in the short amount of time I’ve spent here, and my experiences here lead me to choose my major in Environmental and Outdoor Education. I’m so grateful to the Nature Center for allowing me to place my roots and grow into something I’m passionate about. I can’t wait to see what the future has to offer in this field.
John -
Growing up in Northern MN I often took advantage of the nearby lakes to go for a paddle, the nearby forests to go for a nice hike. On a long weekend maybe travel to SW MN to visit some grassland prairies. Now living in Austin I can find those activities right in the local area.
When we first arrived in town, nearly 20 years ago, we discovered the JC Hormel Nature Center. It was a wonderful place to enroll our young children in nature classes and get them involved in outdoor activities.
Often while waiting for classes to wrap up I would take to the trails and get in a quick hike rather than just sit in the car and wait for my daughters to come out and share their experiences during the ride home.
Now I often visit the Nature Center as a quick respite for the demands of life. It is such a joy to stand amongst the tall pines on a drizzly, warm summer day and take a deep breath. It is a smell that can’t be explained, it needs to be experienced.
Watching deer bound through the tall grass in the early morning hours is another pleasure. Or just spending a few minutes listening to the waters of Dobbins creek is another wonderful way to take a break and clear your mind.
The JC Hormel Nature Center is a treasure for myself, my family, and the community. Here’s to many more years of preserving and teaching the wonders of the outdoors.
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July 8th - The Bjorndal Family
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Our family grew up at the Nature Center. We moved within walking distance of the Nature Center in 1997 with our sons, Pete and Will, aged 4 and 2. We hiked on the trails when we could, and nearly always made a stop at the “old” interpretive center. We looked in the terrarium at the snakes, and peered into the Board Room to see if any birds or critters were eating from the feeder outside the window. We looked at the bees in their miraculous honey combs sandwiched in glass. Various interactive exhibits provided a distraction for the whole family. We regularly took walks when friends or family came to visit.
Once the boys became a little older, they participated in classes at the Nature Center. They learned about topics like raptors, canoeing, and importantly, how to imitate the call of the Barred Owl! Their classes benefited all of us, and we learned to listen for the owls outside our window at home. We went cross country skiing there, sometimes in the evenings. Pete and Will graduated to “skate skis”, long before their parents. Another highlight was hearing Minnesota mandolin virtuoso, Peter Ostrouschko, in concert at the Ruby Rupner auditorium. Later, Lee volunteered to drive people through the park that could not walk the trails, and enjoyed the look of wonder in their eyes as they were once again able to enjoy the outdoors. We became members of the Friends of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. Pete and Will became volunteers there, checking out and waxing skis, and helping out with summer youth classes. A great achievement for our children was solving the Prairie Festival Scavenger Hunt in 2006. They located the hidden buffalo chip, which was attached to a tree along a trail! This event was organized by then intern, Luke Reese, now director of the facility. The prize was a couple of conifers, which we planted near our house and they still look great. Sadly, the buffalo chip was not awarded, or it would be on display in our house today. In 2018, Will later became an “intern” at the Nature Center for a year. He enjoyed working with groups of children and the whole family absorbed more of the educational mission of the Nature Center. Will was said to have been “one of the best bag monsters we have ever had”, (this is a skit performed while wearing a suit made of plastic bags). More high praise for our family! Lee is currently a board member for the Friends of the Nature Center, while the cedar siding of the old interpretive center has been repurposed into directional trail signs. We have participated in countless organized events like Halloween Warm Ups, “Christmas in the Northeast”, and ski races. Mostly though, our experiences there have taught us the importance of enjoying the outdoors and the value of environmental education. |
July 15th - Marsha and Gordy Keuhne
Where does one start with sharing stories about the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center?
It might be that break in the day from the COVID pandemic to escape to the Nature Center for a few hours of tranquility.
Waiting to see if there is water over the stepping stones or if it is dry. Watching the mink come out of the water and head directly to us. We should have had the phone ready to capture the moment but maybe better just having it as a memory.
The hours Gordy and I have spent at the Nature Center can’t be counted. Many hours have been spent with our daughters, son in law and now the grandkids.
The Halloween Warm Ups, summer classes and evening performance have all been so special. Thanksgiving Feasts with Larry Dolphin’s prairie chicken dance and being on the Friends Board and Feast committee have allowed us to see behind the curtain all that goes into preparing and working hard at making the Feast such a success!
My favorite phrase from our granddaughter, Nora, was “My grandma and grandpa have a Nature Center!”
We have watched the Nature Center grow and the new interns each year that bring their stories, love for nature and their individual expertise. We still have connections with many of these young people and see them out and about and in Austin and other parts of the state.
This past September, I (Marsha) celebrated my birthday tagging Monarch butterflies. Our son in law, Ben, commented after two plus hours, “I didn’t know this would be so much fun!” An adventure I would love to do again.
The adventures keep happening year after year and one never seems to tire of what the trip to the Nature Center might involve. The great outdoors is an escape from all the daily requirements one seems to have.
OH TO BE SO LUCKY TO HAVE THE JAY C. HORMEL NATURE CENTER!
It might be that break in the day from the COVID pandemic to escape to the Nature Center for a few hours of tranquility.
Waiting to see if there is water over the stepping stones or if it is dry. Watching the mink come out of the water and head directly to us. We should have had the phone ready to capture the moment but maybe better just having it as a memory.
The hours Gordy and I have spent at the Nature Center can’t be counted. Many hours have been spent with our daughters, son in law and now the grandkids.
The Halloween Warm Ups, summer classes and evening performance have all been so special. Thanksgiving Feasts with Larry Dolphin’s prairie chicken dance and being on the Friends Board and Feast committee have allowed us to see behind the curtain all that goes into preparing and working hard at making the Feast such a success!
My favorite phrase from our granddaughter, Nora, was “My grandma and grandpa have a Nature Center!”
We have watched the Nature Center grow and the new interns each year that bring their stories, love for nature and their individual expertise. We still have connections with many of these young people and see them out and about and in Austin and other parts of the state.
This past September, I (Marsha) celebrated my birthday tagging Monarch butterflies. Our son in law, Ben, commented after two plus hours, “I didn’t know this would be so much fun!” An adventure I would love to do again.
The adventures keep happening year after year and one never seems to tire of what the trip to the Nature Center might involve. The great outdoors is an escape from all the daily requirements one seems to have.
OH TO BE SO LUCKY TO HAVE THE JAY C. HORMEL NATURE CENTER!
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July 22nd - Olivia Grev
I owe the Hormel Nature Center for introducing me to the concept of 'outdoor adventure' - one that has become a central part of who I am and love doing to this day.
The HNC is where my first 'outdoor adventures' happened. My mom and dad would load my sister and I into the car for the short 7-minute drive, and the next thing I knew we were in this cool place with lots of birds, trees, and open space for as far as my eyes could see. I remember running by the big giant, intimidating boulder (that seemed nearly impossible to climb), wandering down the paved path to the covered bridge, and the best part- using all my energy to jump across the stepping stone bridge (and a bit scared I would fall in the water). And of course, getting dad to sneak in a Dairy Queen stop because we put in so much work.
Then a few visits later, I mustered the courage to scale the boulder with my sister (while being closely followed by dad because mom insisted). A new love was being fostered, mountain climbing, and another Dairy Queen stop was in the cards.
I knew I made it big a few years and dozens of visits later, when I graduated from the short strolls to the covered bridge with mom, and I was able to go to the Nature Center just to work out with dad- no easy task. It meant jogging all the way out to the fire tower and then running up and down the fire tower several times... and you cannot take breaks, because then you do not hit your goal time. But the view from the fire tower was so worth it, and it felt like I was on top of the world.
After a few more years, I really proved myself on that fire tower; hitting mine and my dad's goal time consistently. This meant I was able to join on the outdoor adventures to Colorado doing day-long hikes to the tops of mountain peaks. Nothing gets your legs in shape like runs up the fire tower. Dairy Queen stops were our just rewards.
More years pass and the visits got fewer and far between. But I still jumped in the car, driving myself now on 7-minute commute, to run with high school friends for fun or in the Hormel Nature Center 8K. Still being amazed every time at how quick and easy it was to escape for an outdoor adventure, and no matter how many times I had been here and how familiar everything seemed, there was so much I had not explored in this tiny little oasis in the middle of my hometown in southern Minnesota.
Eventually I moved away, and I stopped going on the quick 7-minute drive to escape on an 'outdoor adventure'. Even though I have been fortunate enough to go on several of my own outdoor adventures in some of the world's most amazing places, I miss the ability to hop in my car that 7-minute drive to the Hormel Nature Center.
I have come to realize that my appreciation of the outdoors will always be rooted in the Hormel Nature Center. It is the place I learned to explore, to climb, to run, to appreciate everything the outdoors has to offer. Exploring the outdoors is not about always finding the next best place to visit, or hardest walk/run/hike to do, but about appreciating moments outside and simply enjoying all it has to offer. and maybe a trip to Dairy Queen afterwards.
The HNC is where my first 'outdoor adventures' happened. My mom and dad would load my sister and I into the car for the short 7-minute drive, and the next thing I knew we were in this cool place with lots of birds, trees, and open space for as far as my eyes could see. I remember running by the big giant, intimidating boulder (that seemed nearly impossible to climb), wandering down the paved path to the covered bridge, and the best part- using all my energy to jump across the stepping stone bridge (and a bit scared I would fall in the water). And of course, getting dad to sneak in a Dairy Queen stop because we put in so much work.
Then a few visits later, I mustered the courage to scale the boulder with my sister (while being closely followed by dad because mom insisted). A new love was being fostered, mountain climbing, and another Dairy Queen stop was in the cards.
I knew I made it big a few years and dozens of visits later, when I graduated from the short strolls to the covered bridge with mom, and I was able to go to the Nature Center just to work out with dad- no easy task. It meant jogging all the way out to the fire tower and then running up and down the fire tower several times... and you cannot take breaks, because then you do not hit your goal time. But the view from the fire tower was so worth it, and it felt like I was on top of the world.
After a few more years, I really proved myself on that fire tower; hitting mine and my dad's goal time consistently. This meant I was able to join on the outdoor adventures to Colorado doing day-long hikes to the tops of mountain peaks. Nothing gets your legs in shape like runs up the fire tower. Dairy Queen stops were our just rewards.
More years pass and the visits got fewer and far between. But I still jumped in the car, driving myself now on 7-minute commute, to run with high school friends for fun or in the Hormel Nature Center 8K. Still being amazed every time at how quick and easy it was to escape for an outdoor adventure, and no matter how many times I had been here and how familiar everything seemed, there was so much I had not explored in this tiny little oasis in the middle of my hometown in southern Minnesota.
Eventually I moved away, and I stopped going on the quick 7-minute drive to escape on an 'outdoor adventure'. Even though I have been fortunate enough to go on several of my own outdoor adventures in some of the world's most amazing places, I miss the ability to hop in my car that 7-minute drive to the Hormel Nature Center.
I have come to realize that my appreciation of the outdoors will always be rooted in the Hormel Nature Center. It is the place I learned to explore, to climb, to run, to appreciate everything the outdoors has to offer. Exploring the outdoors is not about always finding the next best place to visit, or hardest walk/run/hike to do, but about appreciating moments outside and simply enjoying all it has to offer. and maybe a trip to Dairy Queen afterwards.
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July 29th - Gary and Marjorie Zimmerman
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Who would have imagined that when Margie volunteered to demonstrate quilting at Pioneer Day in 1982 that would have lead to almost 40 years of a relationship with the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. One of the most memorable times at Pioneer Day was when Margie took a treadle sewing machine. This attracted many older gentlemen who had helped their Mothers sew quilt blocks. They were pleasantly surprised that Margie knew how to sew with one. Our children enjoyed the programs of the day and visiting other demonstrators.
Gary asked one time if he could be of help at the Friends of the Nature Center Thanksgiving Feast. We have helped set up for the Feast and worked it ever since. Most enjoyable! Then all of sudden Gary was asked to be on the Friends Board. Many years of involvement have followed. A first for Gary was the Welcome Circle. Along with Larry the two of them made circles in the snow where it was to be placed. They “discussed” which direction was really true north for the compass points. Another first was the Senior programs. A Monarch butterfly was needed for flight demonstration. Gary was dressed as a Monarch to fly around the room. The Thursday Nature Play events allows our grandchildren to dip a net into the pond to see what kind of critters they can bring up. Our grandchildren have enjoyed coming to the Nature Center to collect sap and make maple syrup. Margie is related to Rita Lickteig who donated the funds to build the log cabin. We have enjoyed helping it evolve into a homestead, now complete with vegetable gardens and apple trees. Hopefully soon the trees will produce apples for the schoolchildren to make cider. The grandchildren have also participated in Halloween Warm Up; our gluten free grandson was particularly please they had GF cookies for him at the end of the skits. They particularly like to toss sticks in the creek then run to the other side of the bridge to watch them float out the other side. Gary has had fun driving the golf cart for those who are unable to walk the trails. Margie’s Mom liked seeing the Spring wildflowers up close and just being outside in nature. We enjoy that the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center has something for everyone. |
August 5th - Karen and Jerry Iberson
I am not sure when we first discovered the Hormel Nature Center. It may have been through one of our naturalist mentors, Derek Anderson, who spent time in Austin on DNR Botany projects.
What a treasure it has been to discover and spend time at this sacred space. One of my great thrills was being called into Larry Dolphins office to be asked to serve on the Friend’s Board. He told me that he had observed us walking past his window in the old office so often that we piqued his interest and he asked Julie C. who we were. Apparently, we were visiting often enough that he knew we must be very appreciative of what the Nature Center had to offer. Thus, it was time to give back some of the knowledge we had acquired over the years. I served on the Friends Board from 2013 to 2018.
Other great thrills have always been to share the Nature Center with our grandchildren and friends. Letting the kids hold the fox snake and jumping off the glacial erratic in front of the old Visitor Center, amazing friends with the sight of Blue Belle Lane at its’ prime and the beauty of the late summer prairie flowers.
It always amazes me that when children are raised without fear of nature or wildlife that they can so easily adapt and befriend the things that many sheltered adults have come to fear, mistrust, overlook, or simply take for granted.
I have always enjoyed the socializing with the nature lovers I have met here. Working with other board members and other people at meetings and on the trails. It was a real privilege to help with the fund raising, planning and design of the new interpretive center.
One of the most rewarding experiences has been as a cart tour guide taking the seniors out into the woods or onto the beautiful, flowered prairie. It is wonderful to share their experiences in nature. What a wonderful effect it can have in lifting the spirits of people that yearn to get back outside and into nature again. Our good friend Penny calls it “nature bathing”.
The Hormel Nature Center has been one of the great discoveries in the natural side of our lives. Being able to share that treasured place with others, young and old, is one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I am so proud to be a small part of the past and future of the Nature Center.
A big thank you to the people of Austin and all of Southern Minnesota who carry on the legacy of Jay Hormel.
What a treasure it has been to discover and spend time at this sacred space. One of my great thrills was being called into Larry Dolphins office to be asked to serve on the Friend’s Board. He told me that he had observed us walking past his window in the old office so often that we piqued his interest and he asked Julie C. who we were. Apparently, we were visiting often enough that he knew we must be very appreciative of what the Nature Center had to offer. Thus, it was time to give back some of the knowledge we had acquired over the years. I served on the Friends Board from 2013 to 2018.
Other great thrills have always been to share the Nature Center with our grandchildren and friends. Letting the kids hold the fox snake and jumping off the glacial erratic in front of the old Visitor Center, amazing friends with the sight of Blue Belle Lane at its’ prime and the beauty of the late summer prairie flowers.
It always amazes me that when children are raised without fear of nature or wildlife that they can so easily adapt and befriend the things that many sheltered adults have come to fear, mistrust, overlook, or simply take for granted.
I have always enjoyed the socializing with the nature lovers I have met here. Working with other board members and other people at meetings and on the trails. It was a real privilege to help with the fund raising, planning and design of the new interpretive center.
One of the most rewarding experiences has been as a cart tour guide taking the seniors out into the woods or onto the beautiful, flowered prairie. It is wonderful to share their experiences in nature. What a wonderful effect it can have in lifting the spirits of people that yearn to get back outside and into nature again. Our good friend Penny calls it “nature bathing”.
The Hormel Nature Center has been one of the great discoveries in the natural side of our lives. Being able to share that treasured place with others, young and old, is one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I am so proud to be a small part of the past and future of the Nature Center.
A big thank you to the people of Austin and all of Southern Minnesota who carry on the legacy of Jay Hormel.
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August 12th - Anne and Dick Waldman
Anne - Years and years ago as I began my love for the Nature Center, it bothered me that there were not more people using the trails that had come here to Austin to work from far off and even from other countries. So few people used the trails to retreat to this beautiful countryside when we knew many were living in cramped quarters. They also were not bringing their children up to look at our exhibits in the interpretive center.
I couldn’t be happier that this is no longer true! I understand working in a town where few people speak your language can make you appear disinterested if there is a language barrier. Now, I would rather call these newcomers “shy”. This beautiful place offers a large place to be alone, walking at your own pace to reflect, to plan and if you spot a bench, to sit a bit, give thanks and head back on the trail. So now because so many new families have come to Austin, it is the children who have discovered the Nature Center through their school field trips. They love it and bring their families one and all.
We lived on a farm not far from the Nature Center, yet I loved going there often. I had to see what may be new - especially new wildflowers and birds. It is here where I learned the names of my birds. We soon were buying big bags of seed to attract birds to our feeders.
When it was time for the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center Thanksgiving fundraiser I was delighted. That was just my kind of fun! I decided that rather than donate money to support the Feast, I would donate handmade items for the auction that pleased me and pleased the spinners and knitters of my Treadler’s group too. I never learned their skills, but attended as a “token sheep person” with a barn full of them. I always kept my eyes out for interesting things, some were old or wooden creations made with talented hands to donate for the auction. Dick and I often made and filled a basket or a box of home grown veggies from our garden adding borrowed jams. With a chuckle, the same couple bought the garden auction basket every year with the top bid and smiled as they took it home.
One year, as part of the Thanksgiving Feast fundraiser, the staff put together a 2011 calendar using specially selected photos by area photographers and taken at the Nature Center for each month. This year before the “sit down” meal time was called at the banquet I noticed another short “older” lady and a young man sitting at the table where the calendars were being sold.
There were also a couple of the framed original photos from the calendar. I walked over to speak to her and she said. “I brought my grandson to the Feast. They chose one of his photos for the calendar.” “Ah” I said “Which one is yours?” and he replied “The red fox”. “Oh my, the red fox is my favorite of all!” I said quickly. “Where did you find him?” He said. “I sometimes sit for a long time and they come to me.” I was quietly so impressed. That young man has become a forever part of the Nature Center family. John Duren became an intern and then the nature photography teacher for many years. Now you may know him as the collaborator with Douglas Wood of The Essence of Place, the Story of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. John’s stunning images are throughout the volume with Douglas Wood’s words speaking between them. Together they have given us a treasure. It may well be on bookshelves years from now as Doug’s early books are now classics.
Before I close, I want you to know we no longer raise sheep, finish pigs or make tons of hay. Dick has retired sometime ago from the Hormel Foods and we have now moved to town as an elderly couple. John Duren’s short Grandma Chloe and Grandpa Tom are our neighbors three doors down the hall. We live at the Cedars and now we treasure our memories of the Nature Center from the days we could be there in person.
Dick - Shortly after I retired from Hormel in 1998, I worked on one of the Austin 20/20 committees. Larry Dolphin and I were assigned to develop ideas for improving recreation opportunities in Austin, we quickly became a Friend and the Nature Center was a new major interest for me and Anne. Eventually I joined the board of the Friends of the Nature Center and was elected President a few years later.
I thoroughly enjoyed working with Larry Dolphin and the Friends board on projects to improve the center and expand service to the community. During this time we had the first Thanksgiving Feast Fundraiser. Bob Roberts did a wonderful job as the first chairman. It was challenging, but a lot of fun to get it organized and set up. Anne and I did our best to help make it a success. Since the inception the Feast has been a major fundraiser, especially to hire our needed interns.
We worked on land purchases and physical improvements. The “Welcome Circle” with two logs for seating was a major project to plan and build. Larry, staff members and board members made a number of visits to the artist to work with him on the physical design and colors and of course, costs. Ideas for a new interpretive center and administrative facilities were begun. Larry and the board made a number of visit to other nature centers to learn and gather ideas. I am happy with the results and appreciate the long process to make it a reality. While all of this was going on, I made my first field trip with a group led by Larry to observe the mating dance of the prairie chickens in Steven’s Point, Wisconsin. We had a great time, but the prairie chickens did not cooperate. The males showed up but the females did not.
I saw a need to find a way for the elderly and the disabled to enjoy going on the trails to see the change of the landscape throughout the seasons. I felt very strongly about this as I was near the need myself. We purchased a six seat golf cart and started to take people on rides using volunteers to drive. As time went on, the service was so popular that the Friends of the nature Center purchased a second seat to fill the requests.
Anne and I feel the Nature Center has become very important to Austin. It is a must visit for our family.
I couldn’t be happier that this is no longer true! I understand working in a town where few people speak your language can make you appear disinterested if there is a language barrier. Now, I would rather call these newcomers “shy”. This beautiful place offers a large place to be alone, walking at your own pace to reflect, to plan and if you spot a bench, to sit a bit, give thanks and head back on the trail. So now because so many new families have come to Austin, it is the children who have discovered the Nature Center through their school field trips. They love it and bring their families one and all.
We lived on a farm not far from the Nature Center, yet I loved going there often. I had to see what may be new - especially new wildflowers and birds. It is here where I learned the names of my birds. We soon were buying big bags of seed to attract birds to our feeders.
When it was time for the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center Thanksgiving fundraiser I was delighted. That was just my kind of fun! I decided that rather than donate money to support the Feast, I would donate handmade items for the auction that pleased me and pleased the spinners and knitters of my Treadler’s group too. I never learned their skills, but attended as a “token sheep person” with a barn full of them. I always kept my eyes out for interesting things, some were old or wooden creations made with talented hands to donate for the auction. Dick and I often made and filled a basket or a box of home grown veggies from our garden adding borrowed jams. With a chuckle, the same couple bought the garden auction basket every year with the top bid and smiled as they took it home.
One year, as part of the Thanksgiving Feast fundraiser, the staff put together a 2011 calendar using specially selected photos by area photographers and taken at the Nature Center for each month. This year before the “sit down” meal time was called at the banquet I noticed another short “older” lady and a young man sitting at the table where the calendars were being sold.
There were also a couple of the framed original photos from the calendar. I walked over to speak to her and she said. “I brought my grandson to the Feast. They chose one of his photos for the calendar.” “Ah” I said “Which one is yours?” and he replied “The red fox”. “Oh my, the red fox is my favorite of all!” I said quickly. “Where did you find him?” He said. “I sometimes sit for a long time and they come to me.” I was quietly so impressed. That young man has become a forever part of the Nature Center family. John Duren became an intern and then the nature photography teacher for many years. Now you may know him as the collaborator with Douglas Wood of The Essence of Place, the Story of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. John’s stunning images are throughout the volume with Douglas Wood’s words speaking between them. Together they have given us a treasure. It may well be on bookshelves years from now as Doug’s early books are now classics.
Before I close, I want you to know we no longer raise sheep, finish pigs or make tons of hay. Dick has retired sometime ago from the Hormel Foods and we have now moved to town as an elderly couple. John Duren’s short Grandma Chloe and Grandpa Tom are our neighbors three doors down the hall. We live at the Cedars and now we treasure our memories of the Nature Center from the days we could be there in person.
Dick - Shortly after I retired from Hormel in 1998, I worked on one of the Austin 20/20 committees. Larry Dolphin and I were assigned to develop ideas for improving recreation opportunities in Austin, we quickly became a Friend and the Nature Center was a new major interest for me and Anne. Eventually I joined the board of the Friends of the Nature Center and was elected President a few years later.
I thoroughly enjoyed working with Larry Dolphin and the Friends board on projects to improve the center and expand service to the community. During this time we had the first Thanksgiving Feast Fundraiser. Bob Roberts did a wonderful job as the first chairman. It was challenging, but a lot of fun to get it organized and set up. Anne and I did our best to help make it a success. Since the inception the Feast has been a major fundraiser, especially to hire our needed interns.
We worked on land purchases and physical improvements. The “Welcome Circle” with two logs for seating was a major project to plan and build. Larry, staff members and board members made a number of visits to the artist to work with him on the physical design and colors and of course, costs. Ideas for a new interpretive center and administrative facilities were begun. Larry and the board made a number of visit to other nature centers to learn and gather ideas. I am happy with the results and appreciate the long process to make it a reality. While all of this was going on, I made my first field trip with a group led by Larry to observe the mating dance of the prairie chickens in Steven’s Point, Wisconsin. We had a great time, but the prairie chickens did not cooperate. The males showed up but the females did not.
I saw a need to find a way for the elderly and the disabled to enjoy going on the trails to see the change of the landscape throughout the seasons. I felt very strongly about this as I was near the need myself. We purchased a six seat golf cart and started to take people on rides using volunteers to drive. As time went on, the service was so popular that the Friends of the nature Center purchased a second seat to fill the requests.
Anne and I feel the Nature Center has become very important to Austin. It is a must visit for our family.
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August 19th - The Hecimovich Family
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Julie - Dear Nature Center Staff, Patrons, and Future Nature Explorers,
My earliest memories at the Nature Center commence as a young child helping my family demonstrate the art of tanning sheep skins, carding, spinning, and felting wool at the annual Pioneer Festival. Since my family raised Rambouillet Sheep, we enjoyed sharing these activities with people through the years. I’m including an old photo of my parents, Warren and Lanita Smith and my brother, Ryan, at our booth in September 1985. I greatly miss this annual event as it was a wonderful time to explore old-time skills and survival techniques. Five generations of my family have enjoyed exploring at the Nature Center. As an Austin High School Student, I enjoyed environmental classes at the Nature Center. I helped to conduct a deer census and walked in the stream with waders to collect data for a stream study. This is where I learned about the importance of being a Citizen Scientist! I ensured my daughters, Sarah and Hannah, would enjoy our local gem by registering for a childhood of Summer Adventure Classes, taking trail hikes, and participating in homeschool and 4-H fieldtrips through the seasons. We especially enjoyed special events from MN Authors, Naturalists from the Midwest, and Hands-On Nature Classes. My family and I have been active Friend's members attending annual meetings and events. Favorite memories are annual bus trips where we have grown friendships while exploring other Nature destinations in Minnesota and Iowa. A family favorite expedition was unearthing, collecting, and identifying fossils from an old clay quarry in Iowa. I am so grateful for opportunities to explore and learn at local and distant wildlife locations! An unforgettable memory was seeing our photo from the Pipestone trip and ski class published in the 40-year Anniversary Book. Another highlight was randomly finding the large snake sunning itself near the cabin instead of the exhibition box it resided at inside the Center. Oh, and of course catching and releasing fish from the flooded parking lot was memorable, too! I am also thankful for the variety of lessons we have learned while exploring at the Nature Center: Plant and Animal Life Cycles, Golf Cart Tours of the Prairies, Safety, Outdoor Sports, Boating, Photography Tips, Teamwork, Geocaching, Native American Culture, Creative Arts, Conservation, and Zest for Learning about our Natural Environment. Staff use their creativity to make learning fun and memorable! Larry Dolphin and Julie Champlin have engaged in helping me and my daughters grow and expand an interest in Nature and all it offers. We will never forget their encouraging words and dedication for several decades to quest for knowledge as students and teachers of the great outdoors. Our gratitude also goes to the amazing Summer Interns, Grounds Keepers, Naturalists and Volunteers and of course Local Animals who make this place so special! From photos of Nature and family and friends at special milestones in our lives, the Nature Center lives on in our hearts forever. Hannah - My favorite memories throughout the years are taking the Summer Adventure Classes. As a curious preschooler, I greatly enjoyed David Stoke’s classes with my sister, Sarah. I remember the thrill of holding the slithering snakes around my neck! Other favorite memories are volunteering at the old center and skiing with my family. I’ve had great memories at the J. C. Hormel Nature Center throughout my life. Since many years have been spent volunteering and working at the center, I have helped other community members make lasting memories. When I was 12, I took part in the Mentee Program with a few other students. I was in this program for 4 years learning about the environment and helping other people enjoy Nature. Now this Winter I was asked to be a Ski Renter. It has been a GREAT joy having jobs at the Nature Center! There are many great stories I have about this beautiful place! One vivid memory is when Maria Anderson was teaching a class and we had to sit in the prairie observing what we saw around us. Class members threw their hula hoops into the prairie and where they landed, we sat. Sitting in the area of my hula hoop was a chance to journal what I observed. In this Buffalo Class I was also thrilled to throw an Atlatl and make a Buffalo snack. My personal nature experiences have positively influenced my life, as I enjoy God’s beauty in creations around me. Being in nature gives me a relaxed feeling. I enjoy encouraging other people to hike, take photos, and spend time together in Nature. I recall the many Summer Interns that came to work at the center and learn about our community. It was fun getting to know them and learn about the environment together. I enjoyed the opportunities that evolved through the years like Nature Play Days, cleaning up the river and Mill Pond with Larry Dolphin and canoeing and kayaking in the pond. I enjoyed watching the daily progress of the new center construction across from my backyard in 2017. The Nature Center has enhanced my life through a variety of hands-on learning opportunities. Having my first job here when I was 12, enhanced my life as well. Thanks for letting me be a part of this celebration of a lifetime of memories experienced at the wonderful Nature Center. Sarah - The J.C. Hormel Nature Center has been part of my life for as long as I remember. Throughout my childhood, I attended almost every single event at the nature center. As a child, I took every nature class I could. I always begged for even more classes in my age category. The experiences were so great that I couldn’t be satisfied with only five classes a summer! I made the most amazing memories in these classes and met special people. From Maria’s buffalo adventure and David Stokes’s naturalist classes, to John Duren’s photography classes and the popular Monarch Magic… I have done them all! The nature center classes taught me to appreciate all aspects of God’s marvelous creation. When I turned 13, I started my 5 year journey as a Kevin Dammen Mentee and volunteer alongside my family. In my first year as a mentee, I worked multiple days each week and enjoyed every moment! There were only four of us mentees, so I had the opportunity to help with a large variety of classes. On days when the nature center was short staffed in the old building, I would walk from my house across the road to feed the center’s critters. Even though the creature food was not appetizing (raptor vitamins, mice, chicks, and worms…yum) it was great to spend feeding time with Guka, the salamanders, and the snakes. I met so many amazing people in my time as a mentee. Thursday Nature Play Days were a great opportunity to discover unique things in nature and get to know fellow mentees. On slower days, the guys developed brilliant ideas for making their time in nature “even better”. I’ll never forget when my coworker, Alec, ordered a Domino’s pizza out to the pond! Larry rolled his eyes, but eventually enjoyed a piece of pizza as well. As a young adult now, I don’t get to spend as much time at the nature center as I did in my childhood. I still thoroughly enjoy, however, cross country skiing and canoeing/kayaking with my family. I also appreciate beautiful, sunset walks with my friends. JCHNC, thank you for the wonderful lifetime of memories! |
August 26th - Tim and Heather Ruzek
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After finishing a 5-mile race through the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center’s woods and prairies, I walked back to the finish line to cheer on my wife, Heather.
Another racer also walked back to cheer on others even though he came to the race alone. As my wife ran across the finish line, he and I cheered from opposite sides of the nature center’s main, paved trail. It was a great moment. What made it even better was that the person across from me was Congressman Tim Walz, who now is the governor of Minnesota. That’s just one of the many memories I’ve made along that paved path leading from the parking lot to the nature center’s woods, prairies and creeks. It is the path I followed as a kid to experience and learn about nature on school field trips. My passion today for helping to protect, improve and enjoy our rivers and streams likely is founded back in those years from my time in and along Dobbins Creek’s north and south branches. That same path is where I was chased, as an adult, by a wild turkey – a protective mother with her wings spread open – after I got a little too close to it. I mistook the turkey for a rock in the grass along the trail. In 2003, this trail seemed to go on forever while hustling to get to the parking lot when my future wife was experiencing a serious allergic reaction to food she ate hours earlier. We had been on a nice, Sunday afternoon walk all the way to the tower when her severe symptoms hit, which made for quite a scary adventure back to the car to drive her to the hospital. More than a year later, Heather and I walked that trail again on a cold, February day to go into the woods to the stepping stone bridge over North Dobbins. There, I surprised her by taking a knee and asking her to marry me. She screamed in surprise to an audience of deer. As parents, Heather and I have loved taking our daughters, Aubrey and Estelle, to the nature center for family walks, cross-country skiing, climbing the big rock and children’s programs. Our family also has paddled the ponds and down Dobbins to East Side Lake and back. Almost every time I leave the nature center, I tell myself that I need to get out there more often. Yet, no matter how much more often I can get out there, I’m sure that thought will never leave my mind. It always seems to leave me wanting more. |
September 2nd - Cindy Bellrichard
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My first memory of the Nature Center is the fall of 1972. A classmate at Austin State Junior College (now RCC) was doing work study at the Nature Center and she was spreading wood chips to help form the paths.
I have fond memories of the pioneer days held in September at the Center. I would don my "pioneer" dress and stir the beans in the black cauldron over the fire. After I became involved in Matchbox Children's Theatre, Vince Shay (the first director of the Nature Center) asked our group to work with him for an event to bring families to the Nature Center in the evening. He wanted kids to not be afraid to be out in the dark. Thus Halloween Warm Up was born. All of the skits are written by Matchbox and Nature Center people. I wrote a few and performed in several. My favorites are "the Pirate and the Rook", "The Owl and the Vole" and "Jack O'Lantern". My most vivid memory is the year it POURED rain! I was a witch and held an umbrella. The wind was so strong, it almost blew us over. I was chilled to the bone and it took a hot bath, hot cocoa, layers of PJ's and an electric blanket to finally warm up. The other vivid memory is more recent when the woods flooded overnight and we had to quickly change the route. The J.C. Hormel Nature Center is such a treasure for the area. It allows families to experience the wonders of nature and to learn from Mother Nature. Whether hiking, cross country skiing, making apple cider or enjoying the interpretive center, it is a wonder gift to all. Thank you Staff and volunteers. |
September 9th - Jillian DeMoss
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The J.C. Hormel Nature Center has always been a natural reservoir of knowledge and experiences to be had. Our community is fortunate to have had this resource for 50 years. That’s 5 decades! Many generations have walked these paths. No matter what age, nature is a gift for all. Whether we share it with our grandchildren, a loved one, your BFF, or just a passing stranger on a hike... The Nature Center natural park will balance your spirit, and bring peace to your inner self. It is such an honor to work here. Doing so has increased my exposure to our natural world and the people who can appreciate it with me. A positive spirit is priceless.
King’s Woods exposed my family to nature early on in life. Enough so, that we all cherish it as we age. As we grow older, my sisters and I have passed on that deep love for nature. We have stomped in mud puddles, chased frogs, sat by the creek soaking our feet in cool water. We hiked on dirt trails and crossed rushing streams. Caught crayfish, tagged butterflies, and blown dandelion seeds. They planted trees, foraged for mushrooms, and caught huge fish. Passing this on to our children and their children. These cherished memories are smiles tattooed on our hearts. When life is simple and happy, its memories are most clear. Cradle this clarity throughout life. The Nature Center can also be a traditional social outing. Traditions are needed in every culture, in family structures. We have many yearly events at the Nature Center. Everyone is open to joining in. Our natural world accepts all of us. Bonding us by socializing in natural settings. Of all the events over the years, the Halloween Warm-Up and Matchbox Theatre are my favorites. The candle-lit paths after dark. The smell of an open fire in the air. Whispers and giggles of children. Stopping to watch a nature skit in the woods. Forest creatures and Halloween spooks intertwine to make for a magical evening. We learn and laugh. A safe and happy group journey... Then it's treat time! Cookies and warm apple cider. Now, this is a wonderful tradition in which to partake. Throughout my life, I have welcomed all the wilds of my environment. Walking along and finding new and unique things in the prairies and woods, creeks, and ponds. I embrace all of nature’s moods. It brings out the creativity in me. It drains away all the daily doldrums and stress from my world. We all know life can bring stress. (Ahem, Covid19.) It has locked us inside, made us wear masks, and changed our social lives. Still, the outdoors and nature have been a release from that. We all need to willingly accept and support our wild nature. To slow down sometimes... self-appreciate, and be grateful. So, I would recommend absorbing the forest atmosphere. "Forest Bathing" is a wondrous experience to be had. I find being immersed in nature makes me feel less entitled and self-important. It humbles me. It brings awareness to each of my senses. It fills me with positive emotions and calms my whole nervous system. It is like giving my soul a bath. I am refreshed. I am relaxed. I am smiling. The child in your heart needs to play outside! To be nurtured throughout all of life's stages. From our families, to yours... “Join US.” For another 50 years! |
September 16th - Sue and Bob Maus
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We moved to Austin in 1978 and have been connected to the Center ever since! Our earliest memory is taking cross country skiing lessons from former Director, Vince Shay. From there we got involved in the formation of the Friends of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. Notable and dearly missed members included Jacques Chipault, Dorothy Owens and Jane Reeve, each of them a Nature Center treasure. Both of us served on the Board and Bob drew up the Articles of Incorporation for the group.
Pioneer Days was a favorite. Sue enjoyed making a big vat of chili to serve to visitors. Our son John was a 5 year participant in the Halloween Warm-up and remembers it fondly. Another memory includes our Fox Snake, Fred. We had raised him from a six inch long baby to a full grown snake. When it became impossible to find food for him in Austin, the Center agreed to take him in and give him a home. He lived there many years and provided enjoyment and education for students and visitors. The fundraiser, The Thanksgiving Feast, has always been a highlight each year and a good chance to catch up with Nature Center supporters and enjoy a good meal and auction. Our first auction purchase was a family canoe trip down the Root River with Larry and Nancy Dolphin. That was a fun day and wonderful memory. The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center has always provided a place of respite, a kinship with others, an educational experience, and a front row seat to nature’s changes. It will always be a big part of our lives. |
September 23rd - Ron and Darlene Walth
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Ron has been associated with the Friends for over a decade. He was on the board and served as Treasurer for many years. When the planning for the new interpretive center was going on, I went to a meeting with Ron and then started my association with the Friends. Ron and myself have been active as board members and on the Feast committee for many years. It has been a learning experience for us along with a pleasure to have served. We have met many wonderful people.
We introduced Christmas in the City to the Nature Center and it was a huge success along with the Friends help and support. Our first year we had over 600 people participate in Christmas in the City! We participated in the Dammen race as volunteers. We brought our family from Tennessee and Georgia to participate. They had a great time and won prizes. We participated in the members only bus trip to the Art Museum and did “BINGO on the Bus” for the riders to enjoy. Ron, myself, and our grandkids got lost on the trails once and had to be rescued by Duane Champlin! After that experience and as Board President, new signage along the trails was looked at and is now a reality. We encourage everyone to take a class, walk a trail, ask about joining in the Feast committee or the Friends Board. They are always looking for volunteers and this is a way to be part of a wonderful organization and get so much back in return. |
September 30th - Colleen and Bob Weimer
In 1964, my mom, brother and myself moved into the white house on the property west of the King’s Woods estate. Mom took the job of being the cook for the retreat house, then operated by the Oblate Fathers. We lived there for a year. During that time, we were constantly in the woods, after coming from town, it was definitely an adventure. Jay Hormel had planted over 200 different species of trees, all marked with wooden signs throughout the woods. As teenagers were always on the lookout for something different. At the same time, in school, we were studying trees, so it worked out great to be living there.
In 1991-92, our daughter, Amy, did a work study from the college working with Larry Dolphin. She then went on to becoming an earth science teacher. She got married at the Ruby Rupner Auditorium in 1997. Then in 2008, our grandchildren attended their first program with David Stokes on frogs, snakes and crawlies. Later they took the photography classes. So to our family the Nature Center holds lots of special memories. I also served on the Friends Board for four years, part of that time was spent on developing the new center.
In 1991-92, our daughter, Amy, did a work study from the college working with Larry Dolphin. She then went on to becoming an earth science teacher. She got married at the Ruby Rupner Auditorium in 1997. Then in 2008, our grandchildren attended their first program with David Stokes on frogs, snakes and crawlies. Later they took the photography classes. So to our family the Nature Center holds lots of special memories. I also served on the Friends Board for four years, part of that time was spent on developing the new center.
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October 7th - David Stokes
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When I met Larry Dolphin through the network of nature center personnel, we became close friends. In 2004, Larry asked me to come to Hormel Nature Center to teach classes for “young children” and their parents. I was used to teaching young children with their caregivers, ages 2 and up. Larry said the classes he was interested in having me teach were for 4- and 5-year-olds and their parents/caregivers. I happily accepted and began to offer classes in early June for children to spend “quality time” with a parent/grandparent/caregiver in nature at Hormel NC. We also offered a class for Seniors on one of the mornings (including an outdoor tour of the Nature Center) and an afternoon lyceum session for families indoors at the Ruby Rupner auditorium. I have been offering this annual week-long program since 2004 as best I can tell, interrupted only by the COVID pandemic in 2020.
Over the years, it has been a wonderful experience being part of a dynamic Nature Center operation in Austin MN. I have been increasingly impressed by the hard work of Larry, Julie, Mike and all the staff at the Nature Center, and recently by Luke Reese who is carrying on where Larry left off. The interns have been helpful in carrying out the classes. One of the greatest assets of the Hormel Nature Center is the wide trails that lead visitors into the 400 + acres of nature, prairies, woodlands, wetlands. When teaching outdoors with groups, especially children and adults, I find it best to be in a circle format, so everyone can attend to the topic, not just those in front of the line. Wide trails allow for this to happen. Hormel truly has provided a rich example of native prairie, wetland, forest, and other habitats to experience and enjoy for all ages. The hands-on exhibits in the “old” visitor center and the “new” visitor are impressive. The indoor teaching spaces for “setting expectations” and “creating the exciting learning opportunities” are very well thought out and conducive to maximum learning. I have enjoyed these spaces and feel very fortunate to have all the amenities at my fingertips. Also special are the benches placed throughout the nature center which are also very “inviting” to allow the visitors not just to rest but to contemplate nature. Things often happen in nature when you sit in one place. I remember many great “ah hah” moments with parents and children. It was fun to see the kids’ reactions when they had a dragonfly, damselfly or butterfly placed on their noses. We enjoyed catching frogs, holding turtles and snakes, and using all our senses to explore nature. It’s important to take the lead from the child and allow them to interact with nature along with their parents/caregivers. Many parents have been appreciative of the time to spend with one of their children in nature. Some parents who have more than one child remarked that this opportunity at Hormel Nature Center allowed them to spend quality time focusing on one child in a natural setting. One memorable story that I remember involved Larry Dolphin and his new Gortex boots. While we were hiking near the Dobbins creek, the trail was flooded. Larry didn’t want to get his new boots wet so he hopped on my back and I carried him over the water! |
October 14th - John Beckel
"It has been a privilege to have had the opportunity to assist in the development of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. Both the City of Austin and the Hormel Company recognized the need to preserve the Hormel Arboretum property for the enjoyment of the citizens of this area and beyond. The need to expand this space became necessary so visitors could see the woods, creek, prairie, swamps, birds and wildlife.
I was asked to see if more surrounding land could be obtained. With the help of Dave Cole and other volunteers, donations were raised to purchase enough surrounding property to double the size of the Nature Center. We worked with property owners to tell them how important it was to have their property so we would have a larger area for the public who like to relax in open spaces. The additional land would benefit wildlife and birds for survival too.
I certainly hope my assistance to Larry Dolphin and the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center has helped with the land expansion and has made it an important addition to Austin for years to come."
Sadly John passed on Sunday, April 4, 2021. We honor his memory with his story and we gratefully acknowledge all of his contributions to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center.
I was asked to see if more surrounding land could be obtained. With the help of Dave Cole and other volunteers, donations were raised to purchase enough surrounding property to double the size of the Nature Center. We worked with property owners to tell them how important it was to have their property so we would have a larger area for the public who like to relax in open spaces. The additional land would benefit wildlife and birds for survival too.
I certainly hope my assistance to Larry Dolphin and the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center has helped with the land expansion and has made it an important addition to Austin for years to come."
Sadly John passed on Sunday, April 4, 2021. We honor his memory with his story and we gratefully acknowledge all of his contributions to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center.
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October 21st - Mike Ruzek
At age 9, I heard from neighborhood friends that there was a way to sneak into Jay C. Hormel’s property not too far away from our homes.
Back then – 1955 – the grounds still were fenced in and guarded even though Jay Hormel had died two years earlier. Yet, my two younger brothers and I easily managed without difficulty to roam the Hormel woods and fish in the pond by the log cabin that sometimes was used for Friday night poker games with Jay and his friends.
We had wonderful times in those splendid woods also known as the “Hormel Arboretum.” Back then, the woods were much quieter than today because Interstate 90 was still on the drawing board. When the Hormel guards eventually caught up with us, they always were friendly while telling us that we needed to leave. Upon leaving, our thoughts were “See you next time.”
Later in sixth grade, I became friends with Skip Barber, who lived between the Hormel Arboretum and the country club just down the road from where the Hormel property. Skip’s backyard was the arboretum, and he knew the area quite well. Signs still were up there, indicating the amazing variety of trees. The property also once boasted a waterfall; private path along Dobbins Creek; poison ivy planted on purpose; and, of course, the horse-and-buggy pathway throughout the arboretum.
My interest in trees was ignited as Skip and I spent many hours learning about the arboretum.
One of my other encounters with the nature center was in 1996 when the community was celebrating the center’s 25th anniversary. Spruce Up Austin back then put out an Arbor Day publication as a supplement to the Austin Daily Herald. That year, Spruce Up Austin dedicated its Arbor Day edition to Jay C. Hormel and the nature center bearing his name.
In pursuit of more information about Jay’s interest in trees, I contacted I.J. Holton, who was The Hormel Foundation’s chairman at the time. His letter revealed that Jay Hormel had a profound love of trees and it was his desire to replace trees because he was concerned that too many trees were being lost to commercial and agricultural expansion.
As a youngster, Jay loved to play in a grove of trees that eventually were cleared away. I also became acquainted with the large book detailing all the initial plantings in the arboretum. It included a map of the area that brought back memories of the times with Skip. Spruce Up Austin in partnership with Lutheran Brotherhood Cedar River branch 8475 established a monument with a birch tree noting the 25th anniversary and honoring Jay C. Hormel.
This also was the time of creating an Endowment Fund, with the primary purpose of planting trees. The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center now is 50 years old and the gift that keeps on giving. Thanks to everyone who have supported the nature center.
Back then – 1955 – the grounds still were fenced in and guarded even though Jay Hormel had died two years earlier. Yet, my two younger brothers and I easily managed without difficulty to roam the Hormel woods and fish in the pond by the log cabin that sometimes was used for Friday night poker games with Jay and his friends.
We had wonderful times in those splendid woods also known as the “Hormel Arboretum.” Back then, the woods were much quieter than today because Interstate 90 was still on the drawing board. When the Hormel guards eventually caught up with us, they always were friendly while telling us that we needed to leave. Upon leaving, our thoughts were “See you next time.”
Later in sixth grade, I became friends with Skip Barber, who lived between the Hormel Arboretum and the country club just down the road from where the Hormel property. Skip’s backyard was the arboretum, and he knew the area quite well. Signs still were up there, indicating the amazing variety of trees. The property also once boasted a waterfall; private path along Dobbins Creek; poison ivy planted on purpose; and, of course, the horse-and-buggy pathway throughout the arboretum.
My interest in trees was ignited as Skip and I spent many hours learning about the arboretum.
One of my other encounters with the nature center was in 1996 when the community was celebrating the center’s 25th anniversary. Spruce Up Austin back then put out an Arbor Day publication as a supplement to the Austin Daily Herald. That year, Spruce Up Austin dedicated its Arbor Day edition to Jay C. Hormel and the nature center bearing his name.
In pursuit of more information about Jay’s interest in trees, I contacted I.J. Holton, who was The Hormel Foundation’s chairman at the time. His letter revealed that Jay Hormel had a profound love of trees and it was his desire to replace trees because he was concerned that too many trees were being lost to commercial and agricultural expansion.
As a youngster, Jay loved to play in a grove of trees that eventually were cleared away. I also became acquainted with the large book detailing all the initial plantings in the arboretum. It included a map of the area that brought back memories of the times with Skip. Spruce Up Austin in partnership with Lutheran Brotherhood Cedar River branch 8475 established a monument with a birch tree noting the 25th anniversary and honoring Jay C. Hormel.
This also was the time of creating an Endowment Fund, with the primary purpose of planting trees. The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center now is 50 years old and the gift that keeps on giving. Thanks to everyone who have supported the nature center.
October 28th - Kay and Dick Smaby
Kay and I have enjoyed hiking and birding at the Nature Center since it's beginning 50 years ago. We would like to say a big Thank You to the people who had the foresight to preserve this place as a Nature Center. I have volunteered for many years to help with the 5th grade classes and to demonstrate bird banding. We were able to show the students a close up view of birds and to explain to them why ornithologists use bird banding in their scientific studies. Also we tried to encourage them to take up birding as a hobby. One thing we learned from our banding is that over 50 Black-capped Chickadees are found in the Nature Center in the winter. Another Chickadee we recaptured we had been banded 10 years earlier, which is really old (I banded the bird on February 2, 2006 and it was recaptured on January 28. 2015)! One time we recaptured a Dark-eyed Junco that we had banded two years earlier. They are only here in the winter and nest in northern Canada so it somehow found the Nature Center two years later. I was on the Friend’s board from 1996 until 2000 and was president part of the time and I was honored to be the 2000 JCHNC Volunteer of the year.
Larry Dolphin and I started a breeding survey in 1997 of the birds found in the Nature Center in the month of June. Over the 24 years we have seen an average of about 45 species per year. We assume many are using the Nature Center for nesting.
Larry Dolphin and I started a breeding survey in 1997 of the birds found in the Nature Center in the month of June. Over the 24 years we have seen an average of about 45 species per year. We assume many are using the Nature Center for nesting.
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November 4rd - Kevin Murray
I have to start by thanking the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center so much for everything it has done for me and for the community. If it wasn’t for the continuing work of all the dedicated staff members and wonderful volunteers, our little town wouldn’t be the beautiful place it is today. There would also be generations of children greatly lacking in the “hands-on” education about the natural world that is so important in a child’s life; especially these days.
As for me, I was one of those children. The only son of a single mother and a “city boy”, I was lacking in the outdoor knowledge I was so desperately craving. The Nature Center was there for my mother and I to “take a walk in the woods” and observe nature. Those were great times for the both of us. Then of course there were the yearly school field trips where I learned amazing things that enhanced my young life so much. My childhood was a definitely better because of the Nature Center’s impact and I hope the same for my children and all the children of our community.
I was also lucky enough to work for the Nature Center years later as an adult. That was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. I was able to teach a lot of the same classes I remembered from my field trips as a child. From tapping maple trees (where I had to sing “If I Had a Hammer” in front of multiple classes of grade schoolers), to exploring the creeks and ponds for all the fascinating creatures that live there. I had so much fun watching the kids’ faces light up as they learned new and exciting aspects of nature. I learned a lot too. Not just about nature in general, but about the importance of actually seeing, hearing, smelling, touching and sometimes even tasting the things you study. I believe these experiences stick in a person’s mind and truly inspire in a way no book or screen can.
That’s only one of the many life enriching facets of my time there. I can’t possibly list them all here. However, I have to mention the animals. Not just any workplace will let you refill the copy machine with a snake around your neck. But it was the birds that truly captivated me. A beautiful Barred Owl named “Guka” and a strong, resilient Red-Tailed Hawk named “Red”. These two feathered friends of the Center were amazing to work with; especially Red. I remember several nights when I came in to hand-feed him when he was sick. I spent hours getting him to eat and talking to him about life. I am very grateful for the time I had with him, and he will always have a place in my heart.
I will cherish all these memories and countless others. I will also cherish all the friends I’ve made and the “Nature Center Family” members I have in my life because of this wonderful place.
Special thanks to Larry Dolphin and Julie Champlin for working so hard to make the Nature Center what it is today and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime!
As for me, I was one of those children. The only son of a single mother and a “city boy”, I was lacking in the outdoor knowledge I was so desperately craving. The Nature Center was there for my mother and I to “take a walk in the woods” and observe nature. Those were great times for the both of us. Then of course there were the yearly school field trips where I learned amazing things that enhanced my young life so much. My childhood was a definitely better because of the Nature Center’s impact and I hope the same for my children and all the children of our community.
I was also lucky enough to work for the Nature Center years later as an adult. That was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. I was able to teach a lot of the same classes I remembered from my field trips as a child. From tapping maple trees (where I had to sing “If I Had a Hammer” in front of multiple classes of grade schoolers), to exploring the creeks and ponds for all the fascinating creatures that live there. I had so much fun watching the kids’ faces light up as they learned new and exciting aspects of nature. I learned a lot too. Not just about nature in general, but about the importance of actually seeing, hearing, smelling, touching and sometimes even tasting the things you study. I believe these experiences stick in a person’s mind and truly inspire in a way no book or screen can.
That’s only one of the many life enriching facets of my time there. I can’t possibly list them all here. However, I have to mention the animals. Not just any workplace will let you refill the copy machine with a snake around your neck. But it was the birds that truly captivated me. A beautiful Barred Owl named “Guka” and a strong, resilient Red-Tailed Hawk named “Red”. These two feathered friends of the Center were amazing to work with; especially Red. I remember several nights when I came in to hand-feed him when he was sick. I spent hours getting him to eat and talking to him about life. I am very grateful for the time I had with him, and he will always have a place in my heart.
I will cherish all these memories and countless others. I will also cherish all the friends I’ve made and the “Nature Center Family” members I have in my life because of this wonderful place.
Special thanks to Larry Dolphin and Julie Champlin for working so hard to make the Nature Center what it is today and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime!
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November 11th - Sydney Weisinger
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I first moved to Austin in 2015 from the cities, I was shocked to find out that I was moving to one of the only towns in Minnesota that did not have a naturally occurring lake! I grew up in a town that consisted of 15 lakes. Walking around the lakes with my family and swimming in them in the summer were a huge part of my childhood. On top of all the stress of moving to a new town, I now came to find out that I had no natural area to take refuge in – or so I thought.
Being new I walked around the town a lot to get my bearings and I found all the wonderful parks, Cedar River, and the walking path around Mill Pond. Then when it started to snow, I started my hunt for cross-country ski trails and finally after months of living in Austin, I found the Hormel Nature Center. I had finally found my place, my quiet, my recharge/de-stress! When I worked at Gerard I walked the Nature Center trails every day for lunch, no matter the weather. The joke always was that if Sydney isn’t out walking the trails during lunch then we probably shouldn’t have school because that’s how bad the weather is. Walking in the Nature Center was a great way for me to de-stress during lunch. I will tell you, it took me a long time to find my way around all of the trails. I love all of the different habitats that the trails twist through. Some of my favorite places are the white pine forest by the golf course, the bench that overlooks the creek by Gerard, the bird feeders (old building) and the stepping stone bridge. I also always stopped to talk to Guka at the old building, so we were already besties before I even started working at the Nature Center. While I worked at Gerard I was able to see a lot of the changes that were happening at the Nature Center, including watching the progression of the old building being taken down and the new one being built. Now that I work at the Nature Center, I am so excited to be a part of the changes happening. What brought me to the Nature Center is not only my love of nature, but also my love of teaching. In my 2 years teaching here, I have enjoyed getting to know all of the teachers and kids. I love when the kids come back every year and say, “Hey, I remember you! You like to hold the snake or you taught me how to make maple syrup!” My favorite part of teaching outdoors is the horror on kids’ faces when I tell them we are going to be getting our hands dirty today! I think it is so important to show kids that sometimes it is okay to get a little dirty and have fun doing it! Now that I have a kid of my own, I love rediscovering nature through his eyes. My advice to everyone is get out into nature and rediscover it as if you were a kid again. Take your shoes off and splash in the water at the stepping stone bridge, get lost in the woods on purpose, find a cool looking mushroom to admire, or just stop to smell every flower on your walk. |
November 18th - Kelly Bahl
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History can be defined as “the whole series of past events connected with someone or something”. While I have not experienced a vast and long history with the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center, my time spent here has had a monumental impact on my life.
Without the nature center I would not be an honorary Minnesotan, I would not be in Austin, maybe not even working in environmental education at all! Who knows what part of the country I would have ended up in? The nature center acts as a retreat and escape for countless people but for me it holds a little more heft to it. What started as a way to get back into the environmental education field as an intern back in 2019 has developed itself into a full time position for at least the next 3 years with immeasurable experience and growth in between. I have always loved being outside but I never really knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. It never really occurred to me that there were even career paths like my current one out there. After going through college, deciding on Biology, taking a detour to work for Walt Disney World in their agricultural sciences department, and moving back to the Midwest, I have been fortunate enough to have been a part of so many different, cool adventures along the way. The nature center has been home to a variety of opportunities for me: bee keeping, astronomy, developing classes, land management, media outreach, helping write grants, bird care and training, other animal husbandry, and, of course, teaching (so much teaching). I don’t think I will ever stop wanting to learn things, so having a job where I can wear so many hats and have such diversity every day when I go to work really suits my personality and work ethic. I finally have a sense of what I want to do, and this is it. Having a job out at the nature center gives me the capacity to be constantly changing and adapting (usually on the fly) and learning something every single day. For me to stop learning is to stop living. I love it when kids come in for a field trip and say “I REMEMBER YOU” and proceed to tell me what they did the last time they were here. I have learned over my years of various jobs and positions, whether directly educating or not, that sometimes the content doesn’t matter. Whatever you are teaching people (kids or adults) is great, but in actuality the amount of information that is retained is not as much as we would like. However, one big thing that is remembered without hardly any effort is how people felt. If they feel a connection, or feel happiness, make a good memory, or have a good experience chatting, asking questions, doing an activity or game, it really grows their compassion for the world around them. And in the environmental field that’s really the end goal, isn’t it? Have the people of the world care enough about it to take care of it. Where the nature center has been a playground for so many, it is become part of my pride as I work to help make the nature center a gemstone focal point of the Austin community and beyond. Working with the land, helping plan and expand, and of course programming and education. We are such an amazing point for kids and adults alike throughout the region and I am honored to help reach farther and connect more to live up to the potential that this place has. A huge thank you to the community in the past 50 years of the nature center to help build it to where it is today and I am truly grateful to be a part of its future. |
NOVEMBER 25TH - MEREDITH MALONEY
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My time with the JCHNC has been anything but ordinary. Brief, sure – but more impactful than I could have ever expected. I’ve been a part of our Nature Center community for about a year, and as I sit and reflect on my experience, I am amazed at how quickly a year can pass when you’re having fun. I’m blown away by how much I have learned, and how much I have grown both personally and professionally. Most notably, I’m struck by how quickly and profoundly this place has become like a home to me. I think that’s just what happens when you’re lucky enough to be able to call the Nature Center community your own. Over the course of one very short year, I’ve had the opportunity to do a lot. I’ve learned how to care for our raptors, bees, and critters. I conducted a research project on mussel populations in Dobbins Creek, and started work on a permanent mussel exhibit for the Interpretive Center. I’ve taught classes on every subject imaginable, and loved every second of it. I participated in the rescue of several birds of prey, wore a snake like a necklace, and made my own maple syrup - I have stories to share that will last a lifetime. Words can’t express my gratitude. I have been working on this human history project over the course of the year, and I’ve noticed some aspects that all of our stories share. Mine will include much of the same. All of our stories speak to the importance of this place for learning and growth. I’m lucky enough to have a job that requires me to learn new things. Thanks to my students, my classes, and questions from visitors, I learn something new every day. With every new piece of information I grow as an educator, a naturalist, and an individual working to take care of our planet. All of our stories speak to the importance of community, and the far and deep reach of ours here at the Nature Center. This is something that I’ve found remarkable about Minnesota. From the day I moved here, I’ve been cared for. I moved halfway across the country by myself and have never felt alone. I found the sense of community that I’ve always looked for, and that’s thanks to all of you. All of our stories recount memories made, and moments shared. I could write a book of my own with the memories I’ve made in just one year of working at the JCHNC. I’m sure that we all could! That’s part of the beauty of our Nature Center. At the heart of all of our stories are two things; people, and nature. I like to think that these are the two most valuable things in the hearts of all of us. Thank you to the people and the natural spaces that have made this year possible. |
December 2nd - Luke Reese
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My family moved to Austin in 1984, I was two years old.
For my family and me, the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center became a fixture in our lives. Growing up, we would visit frequently, always stopping in the interpretive center on our way out to the trails. The interpretive center had all kinds of bones, feathers, pelts, and nature stuff to touch. The touch boxes, with an unknown object inside, were always scary and thrilling to explore. The snakes, at one time there was a rattlesnake, box turtle, salamanders, and bees were always worth checking out. And outside, climbing the rock was a must with every visit. On the trails, we would check out turtles on the log, stepping stones, the covered bridge, the tower, and the old oak. Our family mourned the tree when lightning stuck and half of the tree fell. The remaining portion did not last much longer. On the road near the tower, our family would fly kites. My parents would break the rules and we would picnic. We attended Pioneer Days and the Halloween Warm-Up. We would visit multiple times every winter to go cross-country skiing. In the 80’s and 90’s, the snow was much more reliable. We frequently skied over Christmas vacation from school. Every time we would go skiing we would go down the hill by Gerard. My sisters and I would keep track of who fell the least for bragging rights. We all got skis one Christmas and on my birthday a month later, my family broke the rules again. We skied in from the county road and found my stepmom tending to a fire in the snow. We cooked hot dogs and made s’mores. In the winter of 1998-1999, I was hired to rent skis on the weekends. That was the first of several times in my life where I couldn’t believe that I got to work at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. When I wasn’t renting skis, I was answering phones, or cleaning. The job kept me busy and put a little extra money in my pocket. I had no idea it would be the first of three employment experiences at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. A few years later, after a 10-month service experience with AmeriCorps NCCC, I’d learned that my passion for the outdoors and conservation was above average. I took an opportunity to intern at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center from fall of 2005 through summer of 2006. I got to teach kids, handle raptors, take care of critters, and ski and canoe, while representing the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center to this community. The experience cemented my desire to work in natural resources. During that year, I learned that while protecting nature is important, it does not happen in a vacuum apart from people. We need to bring people along. It is important to have places that make the natural world accessible to all. It is important to have opportunities for children, families, and adults to learn about and learn from nature. It is not enough for a person to just put their head down and do the work of fixing the things in the natural world that people screw up. Every day, we need to teach people about the natural world, its threats, and how we can fix it. Years later, working for The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in Arizona, I was pushing that message. It is not enough to just protect the natural world, we need to bring people along. It was never a main part of my job, but I would do programs for school groups and kids during the summer as much as was possible. I was content to keep doing that near the Mexico border until I learned I was becoming a father. As much as I liked my life in Arizona, I wanted to be closer to family when raising my daughter. My plan was to find an environmental job in Minnesota. Early in my job search, I learned that Larry Dolphin was retiring and the timing looked promising for my plans to move back to Minnesota. Much to my delight, I was hired. Over a three week period in August 2016, I became a father, moved 1,600 miles, and started a new career. For me this was a dream job. It married my passions of taking care of nature while bringing people along. I jumped into this job at a crazy time. The day I started, the concrete floor was being poured for the new Interpretive Center, it rained 5 inches overnight and a canoe trip was cancelled, so we pulled buckthorn. Getting up to speed and helping complete the new interpretive center was a challenge. After opening the new building in April 2017, I thought I might finally have a chance to settle in at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. While I have settled in, the work pace has not slowed. In the last five years, we have received grants to get rid of buckthorn, plant more prairie, and restore wetlands. We have managed the deer herd with an annual archery hunt. The Friends of the Hormel Nature Center acquired and restored 11-acres of farmland to prairie. We have developed a master plan and received a regionally significant park designation from the Greater MN Regional Parks and Trails Association. We have been awarded LCCMR funding from the state’s Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund to grow our environmental education programs beyond Austin. We are working to repair aging infrastructure and improve access for all. It is humbling to know that I will play a significant part in the next 50 years at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. Looking forward, I feel fortunate to have a history with this place. The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center would not be what it is today without talented staff, dedicated volunteers, and a strong Friends group. It would not be what it is without support of city leaders, school partners, local nonprofits, The Hormel Foundation and other state and local partners. Larry Dolphin has told me on a number of occasions that the secret to his success was surrounding himself with good people. I will follow that advice and work to maintain and grow the staff, volunteers, and Friends as well as the organizational relationships that will ensure that the next 50 years will be as great as the last. Together, we will continue to develop new and exciting environmental experiences and restore and protect land while maintaining an oasis of nature for generations to come. |
December 9th - Joe Breunig
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As a recent college graduate, I was hired by Vince Shay to work as the assistant naturalist in the spring of 1986. Vince put me right to work taking care of the animals and the display area, as well as the quarterly newsletter. In addition, he guided me on how to teach and give tours to the many school groups that visited the nature center.
This was this experience that motivated me to leave the nature center in May of 1987 so that I could begin a graduate degree in education at the College of St. Thomas. I ended up teaching high school biology in the Twin Cities and Green Bay for many years. My time at the nature center was filled with many memories of the wonderful people of Austin and how they all welcomed me to the community. Vince was expanding the programs and the opportunities for people to visit the nature center and I was happy to help him in these efforts. I remember the start of canoe rentals on Dobbins Creek, cross-country skiing, and the additional purchase of land including the construction of the observation tower. Vince gave me the task to write up the description for the granite rock, and I was grateful for the trust he showed in me, considering that the plaque is a permanent addition to the nature center. By far my best memories focus on the many group tours and helping everyone appreciate the beautiful gift of the JC Hormel Nature Center. |
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December 16th - Ann Bundy
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We have said it before, but it bears repeating: our volunteers are the backbone of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. Volunteer, Ann Bundy, has dedicated four decades of time, energy and support in a variety of ways and was honored as the Volunteer of the Year in 1994.
Her specialty is creating scrapbooks of newspaper articles, photos and anything associated with the nature center thus establishing an invaluable history of the Nature Center. She started this project under former director, Vince Shay, in the early 1980s and is still collecting articles and making scrapbooks today. Ann says, "The reason I volunteer is to contribute to something I care about, to have an excuse to do something I love, and to maintain this gift as a legacy for our children and grandchildren.” We want to extend our extreme gratitude and thanks to Ann for 40 years of creating and maintaining this important history and legacy project! - Julie Champlin |
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December 23rd - Women of Distinction
Joanne Gellerman (1928 - 2007):
“Joanne was a part of the Nature Center before it became the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in 1971. She and Jacques Chipault were friends and worked together at the Hormel Institute. They were both strong advocates for the King’s Wood’s arboretum to be come the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center.
Joanne was and will always be the “wildflower lady” of this special place. Joanne’s eye and appreciation for the beauty in a wildflower has been documented through the wonderful photographs that she took of them, her postcards, slides and wildflower directory. The 1996 native wildflower guide to Southeastern Minnesota contains Joanne’s photos and her poetry. This booklet brings native wildflowers to life and where to find them.
Joanne served on the Friends Board from 1989-1995 and again in 1999-2002. She had a good eye in suggesting quality people to selected to serve on the Friends Board of Directors. She was also the woman who suggested to Margaret Beck that she should consider donating to the Nature Center and establish the Ruby Rupner Nature Program Endowment Fund. She was a charter member of Austin Audubon in 1971 and was the JCHNC volunteer of the year in 1990. She led slide talks on wildflowers, hikes to the woodlands and prairies with wildflowers throughout the decades of the Nature Center.
She loved this place. She understood the value of community. She was generous with her time, talent and money. She walked out here whenever she could until complications with her diabetes no longer allowed her to do so. You could not replace Joanne’s knowledge of King’s Woods and the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. She was truly a blessing for our community and the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. She was truly home in the woods.”
- Julie Champlin
“Joanne was a part of the Nature Center before it became the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in 1971. She and Jacques Chipault were friends and worked together at the Hormel Institute. They were both strong advocates for the King’s Wood’s arboretum to be come the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center.
Joanne was and will always be the “wildflower lady” of this special place. Joanne’s eye and appreciation for the beauty in a wildflower has been documented through the wonderful photographs that she took of them, her postcards, slides and wildflower directory. The 1996 native wildflower guide to Southeastern Minnesota contains Joanne’s photos and her poetry. This booklet brings native wildflowers to life and where to find them.
Joanne served on the Friends Board from 1989-1995 and again in 1999-2002. She had a good eye in suggesting quality people to selected to serve on the Friends Board of Directors. She was also the woman who suggested to Margaret Beck that she should consider donating to the Nature Center and establish the Ruby Rupner Nature Program Endowment Fund. She was a charter member of Austin Audubon in 1971 and was the JCHNC volunteer of the year in 1990. She led slide talks on wildflowers, hikes to the woodlands and prairies with wildflowers throughout the decades of the Nature Center.
She loved this place. She understood the value of community. She was generous with her time, talent and money. She walked out here whenever she could until complications with her diabetes no longer allowed her to do so. You could not replace Joanne’s knowledge of King’s Woods and the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. She was truly a blessing for our community and the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. She was truly home in the woods.”
- Julie Champlin
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Margaret Beck (1913-2007):
“Joanne Gellerman, longtime supporter and Friend of the Nature Center called Larry Dolphin one day in the early fall of 1990. Joanne told Larry that she had this lady friend who wanted to donate money to the Nature Center. This wonderful lady turned out to be Margaret Beck, a retired APS librarian, who initially donated $10,000 in memory of her friend and retired teacher, Ruby Rupner. In Ruby’s memory the Ruby Rupner Environmental Endowment fund was established. The first program was an Earthsong Concert on April 27, 1991 by Douglas Wood.
This was only the beginning of donations from Margaret. Margaret liked the concert so much that she gave another $110,000 to the fund. Not long after the first program Margaret thought we should have a place on site to host the new programs. In 1992 she then gave $150,000 to kick off our fundraiser to build the Ruby Rupner Auditorium. The funds she provided were more than half of the initial cost to build the auditorium. The auditorium was completed in 1994 and dedicated on October 1, with a Douglas Wood concert.
Margaret continued to give money to maintain the auditorium and provide significant dollars for the new acreage acquired at the Nature Center. She provided funds for a portable stage, new carpet, computers, refrigerator, new decorations for the auditorium and much more for over 10 years! She would ask what we needed and she always delivered! The legacy Margaret left the community is forever. The programs will continue in the Ruby Rupner Auditorium and in our new classrooms.
Larry Dolphin and Julie Champlin enjoyed her company, wit and conversation. Margaret had a wonderful quality of making the staff feel good about the work they do at the Nature Center. Her encouraging words and caring actions were precious gifts from this special friend. There was a void experienced once Margaret fell ill in 2005. Larry and Julie were honored when they were asked to speak at her celebration of life event when she passed away in 2007.
Margaret was a phenomenal woman who knew what she wanted and went after her dreams. She was a woman of courage, initiative. determination and strength. Margaret’s legacy lives on through the environmental programs, the Ruby Rupner Auditorium and gifts she left us. When one person does something to help the Earth it makes a very big difference. Margaret was one of those people.”
- Julie Champlin
“Joanne Gellerman, longtime supporter and Friend of the Nature Center called Larry Dolphin one day in the early fall of 1990. Joanne told Larry that she had this lady friend who wanted to donate money to the Nature Center. This wonderful lady turned out to be Margaret Beck, a retired APS librarian, who initially donated $10,000 in memory of her friend and retired teacher, Ruby Rupner. In Ruby’s memory the Ruby Rupner Environmental Endowment fund was established. The first program was an Earthsong Concert on April 27, 1991 by Douglas Wood.
This was only the beginning of donations from Margaret. Margaret liked the concert so much that she gave another $110,000 to the fund. Not long after the first program Margaret thought we should have a place on site to host the new programs. In 1992 she then gave $150,000 to kick off our fundraiser to build the Ruby Rupner Auditorium. The funds she provided were more than half of the initial cost to build the auditorium. The auditorium was completed in 1994 and dedicated on October 1, with a Douglas Wood concert.
Margaret continued to give money to maintain the auditorium and provide significant dollars for the new acreage acquired at the Nature Center. She provided funds for a portable stage, new carpet, computers, refrigerator, new decorations for the auditorium and much more for over 10 years! She would ask what we needed and she always delivered! The legacy Margaret left the community is forever. The programs will continue in the Ruby Rupner Auditorium and in our new classrooms.
Larry Dolphin and Julie Champlin enjoyed her company, wit and conversation. Margaret had a wonderful quality of making the staff feel good about the work they do at the Nature Center. Her encouraging words and caring actions were precious gifts from this special friend. There was a void experienced once Margaret fell ill in 2005. Larry and Julie were honored when they were asked to speak at her celebration of life event when she passed away in 2007.
Margaret was a phenomenal woman who knew what she wanted and went after her dreams. She was a woman of courage, initiative. determination and strength. Margaret’s legacy lives on through the environmental programs, the Ruby Rupner Auditorium and gifts she left us. When one person does something to help the Earth it makes a very big difference. Margaret was one of those people.”
- Julie Champlin
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Ruby Rupner (1904-1988):
“One of the greatest blessings a child can have is a good teacher. Ruby Rupner was one of those special teachers who touched the future in many ways. She taught fifth and sixth grade students for 28 years at Whitter, Shaw and Neveln in the Austin Independent School District. She was a talented artist and sewed beautiful stuffed teddy bears and animals for family and friends. Ruby loved nature, especially birds, animals, flowers and fishing.
Ruby Rupner was born July 18, 1904 in Edgerton, Minnesota. She was the youngest of a large family of German and French decent. Ruby retired from teaching in 1969 and died of heart failure and other complications on December 18, 1988. She left a legacy of love and friendship and inspired her students to respect and enjoy nature. Millie Munro Masse, a former student, recalled birdwatching trips along Kenwood Avenue (now 4th street SW). “The awe and appreciation of nature she imparted to her students remains one of my most prized possessions. When I am looking for birds or walking at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center, I think of her.”
Ruby Rupner challenged her students to perform banding of Monarch butterflies. The students collected caterpillars and kept them in the classroom until they completed their metamorphosis into butterflies. They were then tagged and releases. The student’s work was then published in a study entitled “Movement of the Monarch Butterfly” conducted by the prestigious Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Ruby’s legacy lives on with the Ruby Rupner Nature Program Series and now with the new Ruby Rupner Memorial Auditorium. Her friend, Margaret Beck, donated $50,000 for the nature series and has donated $137,000 to the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center to build the new building in Ruby's memory. Thanks to $105,000 in other donations from the Hormel Foundation, Friends of the Hormel Nature Center, Austin Park and Recreation Department, Hormel Foods Corporation, private donations, banks, clubs and service organizations the building was completed and dedicated on October 1, 1994.
Ruby and Margaret both traveled through every state in the union and Margaret stated that their fondest memories were of their travels together. They both especially enjoyed the New England states. Margaret gave the donations “Because I wanted to give something back to the community and recognize what Ruby did for science and for children. Ruby gave so much of her life to promote this sort of thing.”
A pipestone rock with “Friends” engraved on it has been placed at the base of the fireplace of the new building. It was given to the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center by Margaret Beck, in memory of Ruby’s childhood in the Pipestone area. Ruby’s love of nature reaches out to the Austin community for generations to come from this special friend.”
- Julie Champlin
“One of the greatest blessings a child can have is a good teacher. Ruby Rupner was one of those special teachers who touched the future in many ways. She taught fifth and sixth grade students for 28 years at Whitter, Shaw and Neveln in the Austin Independent School District. She was a talented artist and sewed beautiful stuffed teddy bears and animals for family and friends. Ruby loved nature, especially birds, animals, flowers and fishing.
Ruby Rupner was born July 18, 1904 in Edgerton, Minnesota. She was the youngest of a large family of German and French decent. Ruby retired from teaching in 1969 and died of heart failure and other complications on December 18, 1988. She left a legacy of love and friendship and inspired her students to respect and enjoy nature. Millie Munro Masse, a former student, recalled birdwatching trips along Kenwood Avenue (now 4th street SW). “The awe and appreciation of nature she imparted to her students remains one of my most prized possessions. When I am looking for birds or walking at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center, I think of her.”
Ruby Rupner challenged her students to perform banding of Monarch butterflies. The students collected caterpillars and kept them in the classroom until they completed their metamorphosis into butterflies. They were then tagged and releases. The student’s work was then published in a study entitled “Movement of the Monarch Butterfly” conducted by the prestigious Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Ruby’s legacy lives on with the Ruby Rupner Nature Program Series and now with the new Ruby Rupner Memorial Auditorium. Her friend, Margaret Beck, donated $50,000 for the nature series and has donated $137,000 to the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center to build the new building in Ruby's memory. Thanks to $105,000 in other donations from the Hormel Foundation, Friends of the Hormel Nature Center, Austin Park and Recreation Department, Hormel Foods Corporation, private donations, banks, clubs and service organizations the building was completed and dedicated on October 1, 1994.
Ruby and Margaret both traveled through every state in the union and Margaret stated that their fondest memories were of their travels together. They both especially enjoyed the New England states. Margaret gave the donations “Because I wanted to give something back to the community and recognize what Ruby did for science and for children. Ruby gave so much of her life to promote this sort of thing.”
A pipestone rock with “Friends” engraved on it has been placed at the base of the fireplace of the new building. It was given to the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center by Margaret Beck, in memory of Ruby’s childhood in the Pipestone area. Ruby’s love of nature reaches out to the Austin community for generations to come from this special friend.”
- Julie Champlin
