City is looking at the first strike in more than 50 years. Mayor Tom Keogh was quoted as saying, "economically town is in limbo, at a standstill. Stress on residents used to high wages, people don't have a lot of extra money, have to be optimistic that the strike will be settled."

Guyette speaks about strike funds, "If give into company cuts, company will want more and more".

In December of 1984, Ray Rogers was hired for to put pressure on the company and financial backers. Rogers was quoted as saying, "The campaign is successful. Our main success has been in publicity and attracting national attention. The campaign has cost the union $340,000".

Workmen finish putting chain link fence areound Hormel plant.

Nyberg is quoted, "The company will run that plant with temporary or replacment employees. The is a possibility for violence during the strike. The city will take on the appearance of an armed camp."

This story is a backgrounder on Austin, Minnesota and the Hormel meat packing plant, which is the city's largest employer, with assets of $1.4 billion.