2015 Winter Discoveries

Staying True to Our MIssion

2

Jazzy's Good Life

8

A Very Special Field of Dreams

11

Discoveries Winter 2015

A WORKING MAN In honor of our friend Peter Macauley Ferguson 1950 - 2015

Page 4

“Good friends are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget.”

— Anonymous

LEAD

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STAYING TRUE TO OUR MISSION

By John Estrem, CEO of Hammer

T

hroughout our almost 93-year-history we have stayed true to our roots and our mission: to provide support for people with disabilities that focuses on the individual and their needs. While we have stayed true to our mission, much has changed in how we provide support. Hammer started out with rented houses, then moved to a "campus" that included a school, then went on to four- and six-person homes, to apartments, as well as individualized supports provided in the individual's home. We have adapted and changed with the times.

Today, Hammer provides a diverse array of service supports. While we provide these supports on a daily basis, we continue to search for ways to provide even better and more person-centered services. We are focused on broadening our offerings, so the people we serve have a true choice in how they live and how they are supported.

Looking to the Future Right now we are working with Hennepin County to open a new children's home.

While the moratorium on opening new homes still remains, counties can ask the state for an exception for a particular need. The County has identified a need for a new children's home and asked us to help make it a reality. We are thrilled at the chance to once again serve children.

Change is Good and Necessary We are also consulting with another county about expanding our apartment model into their area. These conversations are just in the beginning stages, but we have been received well and are excited about the prospects. Also, we are looking at a slightly different apartment model for people who may not need quite as much on-site support.

In our Customized Support Services, where we provide support in one particular area of life, we are expanding again. This gives us the opportunity to provide even more case management, support planning and health care coordination for the people we serve throughout Minnesota.

Hammer Discoveries

Our promise at Hammer is always to search for new ways to provide support to the people we serve while remaining focused on the individual and their needs. It is how Alvina Hammer did it in 1923, and that is what will guide us into the future.

Contributors Barbara Brandt, John Estrem, Paige Garrett, Kim Hansen, Ann Martinka, Kevan Nitzberg, Wendy Paulson, Juane Rose, Cathy Thoma, Ellen Timmerman-Borer, Ginger Venable

With gratitude,

Managing Editor Barbara Brandt barbara@hammer.org

Graphic Design Jennifer Larson

John Estrem, CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS William Young President SalesFitness, LLC

Kent Scholten Secretary Merrill Lynch

Joe Reis Vice President Coldwell Banker Burnet

*Barbara Tuckner Immediate Past President Tuckner Consulting, Inc.

Gregory Anderson Treasurer Thrivent Financial

*Jerry Caruso University of Minnesota

2 | Hammer Discoveries

* Indicates Hammer family member

George Daum Microsoft Corporation

Janet Lerch US Bank

Lisa Dongoske Cushman and Wakefield

Michelle Lureen Fidelity Bank

*Rebecca Furnival Community Leader *Joe Koltes US Home Source Realty

*Kevan Nitzberg Anoka-Hennepin School District *Nino Pedrelli Real Estate Advisory Services

*Al Tennessen Retired Bruce Volkart Volkart May & Associates, Inc. *Alan Wilensky Attorney at Law

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BOARD SPOTLIGHT

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS: A Spotlight on Bill Young

By Barbara Brandt, Director of Communication

H

ammer Board President, Bill Young, is a family man, business owner, and community volunteer. Perhaps less well known is that Bill is the oldest sibling in his family by a mere six minutes! Bill has a younger twin sister, and two other siblings. He lives in Plymouth with his wife, Bonnie.

They have three children.

collaborative. “When each of us shares our unique talent with the people we serve, we learn from each other, and build community,” Bill says.

Bill’s innovation and forward thinking, honed throughout his business adventures, has opened his mind to thinking in new ways about how to change the way people with disabilities are perceived. “Being open to new ways of thinking is important,” says Bill, “especially when you want to change the way people think.”

Family Man and Business Owner Bill grew up on the east side of Cleveland, Ohio and also lived in Chicago and Philadelphia prior to moving to Minneapolis in the summer of 1985.

He began his business career in the late ’70s specializing in paper office business forms, and later transitioned from paper to current electronic business technology.

With a background in business and education, Bill soon found his passion for training sales staff in the use of technology. He now is part of a business that uses cutting-edge technology to train sales staff across the country, using their mobile devices.

Although he started his entrepreneurial career later in life, Bill has always been an educator, businessman, and a pioneer of new business ventures. His specialty has always been problem solving for businesses, but now he is also integrating technology to keep businesses thinking in new ways.

A Volunteer: The Connection Brought Him to Hammer Years ago, when the Young family was looking for a church home, they attended and later joined Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Medina, Minnesota. After a few months, Bill started to notice there were quite a few people at the service with Down’s syndrome. He was curious to learn that a church member and soon-tobe friend, Joe Reis drove people who lived at the Hammer homes to church

“When each of us shares our unique talent with the people we serve, we learn from each other, and build community,” Bill says. each Sunday. Bill’s interest was piqued, and he needed to find out how he could help. Before long, he was partnering with Joe, making sure each person had a ride to church from the Hammer homes.

One of the people who greatly impacted Bill was a gentleman who always sat in the front pew of the church wearing a tall cowboy hat. “His name was Donny,” Bill says, “and he was larger than life with that big cowboy hat, enjoying the moment, and loving life.” Bill notes how Donny was always fully engaged in the sermon and sang the hymns with such great passion.

Changing Perceptions Bill’s leadership style has always been inclusive and relationship based. As an example, he encourages all board members to have dinner with the people Hammer serves at their home.

Bill believes it is important to be

Sharing his exceptional and savvy point of view has allowed Bill to promote innovation and thoughtful conversations as President. He states, “Being part of the board has been a chance to use both my business and education experience for the greater good to help others. I am thankful to have the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful organization such as Hammer.”

IN THIS ISSUE PAGES 4-5

A Working Man: In Honor of our Friend Peter

PAGE 6

Healthy Lifestyles for All

PAGE 7

Evolution of a Volunteer

PAGES 8-9

Jazzy's Good Life Quality of Life Fund

PAGE 10

Our Hammer Culture DSP Corner

PAGE 11

A Very Special Field of Dreams

PAGE 12

Because I Traveled, I Gained Confidence in Me!

PAGE 13

Angels All Around Us

PAGES 14-15

Our Donors

BACK COVER Hammer Updates

Hammer Discoveries | 3

A Working Man

In honor of our friend, Peter Macauley Ferguson, 1950-2015

By Wendy Paulson, Human Resource Specialist

The Promise Peter Macauley Ferguson had just turned eleven when he moved to Hammer School. It was 1961, fourteen years before landmark legislation would establish the rights of children with disabilities to attend public schools. Hammer School promised Peter an education as well as a home for the rest of his life. I first met Peter when I worked in the men’s dormitory in 1980. He was thrilled to be working for Opportunity Workshop (later renamed Opportunity Partners) at their new Minnetonka site. His strong work ethic and personal identity required a job and a paycheck and he frequently announced, “I’m a working man!” and “making the big bucks!”

Sheridan was His Home In 1985, Peter moved from the dorm into Gleason Lake group home with five roommates. In 2001 he moved again to Sheridan where he had his own bathroom and space for his recliner where he liked to watch the news and his favorite game shows.

His room was decorated with family photos and keepsakes, including an autographed picture of Bob Barker, host of The Price is Right, a reminder of when he attended the show’s taping in California.

Peter enjoyed outings with just one person, more than group activities, with the exception of weekly church services. Peter always took pride in his job and cared about his personal appearance. He liked to make toast in the morning, take out the trash, and bring in the daily mail.

Good Friendships are Simple and Fun

Peter Macauley Ferguson passed away October 29, 2015 at his Hammer home surrounded by the people that loved him dearly. His family and friends gathered to celebrate his life on November 6, 2015.

4 | Hammer Discoveries

Pete and I lost touch during the years I did not work for Hammer. When I returned to work in Human Resources six years ago, Pete came by my office and suggested supper at Perkins. We reminisced about old friends and places and remembered how much we enjoyed each other’s company. He often shook his head and observed, “We’ve been knowing each other a long time.” He loved to joke and tease. An evening

spent with Pete always reminded me that good friendships are simple and fun. There were no demands from Pete, he was genuinely glad to see you, and that was enough.

Pete was a Blessing to Us All When Pete fell last August, they repaired his hip, but he was not recovering. Soon thereafter came the shocking diagnosis of advanced cancer. Difficult, sad conversations followed during long hours at the hospital. Pete did have one clear, decisive message: “I want to go home to Sheridan and sleep in my own room.” Pete wanted the journey to be his way and a strong faith helped him confidently proclaim he would be “with the Lord!”

Caring for a man with a serious illness meant hospice professionals and extra caregivers, and Pete was not comfortable with strangers. Only trusted and familiar faces reassured him now. When he went home in September, volunteers brought meals to free up time for staff to be with him. Friends visited often. His sister called daily, his pastor shared communion, and his guardian brought his favorites for lunch. When I visited, Pete would hold my hand while asking about my day.

Pete could not go out anymore, and spent most of his time in bed. He had to let go of a lot. Pete’s final wishes were simple: his home, his room, his friends, and his Hammer family. The promise made to his parents all those years ago is embodied in Hammer’s explicit mission to help individuals live their lives to the fullest. For all of his caregivers, it was an honor to care for a man who taught us to be positive and to appreciate the simple pleasures. Thanks friend, you have been a blessing to us all.

Hammer Discoveries | 5

COMMUNITY LIFE

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLES FOR ALL

By Paige Garrett, Community Life Coordinator

O

ne of the goals of our Community Life program at Hammer is to help the people we serve lead healthy lifestyles. There are many components of a healthy lifestyle, and leading one requires more than just a commitment to exercise and nutrition.

Overall wellness involves community integration, mental health, positive social relationships, and participation in recreation events to name a few.

Hammer offers the people we serve many opportunities and encourages a well-rounded commitment to health and wellness.

Our Community Life program offers alternating eight-week blocks of Yoga, Zumba, and dance classes. Depending on the season, the people we support can participate in one of these activities on a weekly basis at our central office. These exercise classes serve as more than just an outlet for fitness. They offer a place to connect, make friends, unwind and relax.

Ours is a supportive environment that removes the pressure that may be found in more traditional gym environments.

We are currently offering a Wednesday evening Zumba class. For people who like to dance, Zumba is an aerobic dance fitness program that incorporates choreography inspired by multiple styles of dance, such as Hip-Hop, Soca, Samba, Salsa, and Merengue. Zumba is fun, upbeat, and adaptable to fit a variety of fitness levels and abilities.

Exercise does not have to be a chore.

Instead Zumba makes getting exercise fun, along with meeting new people and making friends. Dancing in front of a crowd can be a little intimidating, but folks have stepped up to the challenge.

The individuals we support inspire us daily. Health and wellness can be fun and joyful, which are two fundamental components for our programs.

6 | Hammer Discoveries

Dancing to Zumba as part of our healthy living initiative at Hammer

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VOLUNTEER

THE EVOLUTION OF A VOLUNTEER

By Cathy Thoma, Volunteer Resources Manager

R

ondi Pacheco first learned about Hammer in 2001. Living in Plymouth at the time, she read an article about Hammer and the opportunities to volunteer. “Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life?” the article asked. Rondi responded with a “Yes!”

Rondi and Adam B. Rallying at the Capitol

First Volunteer Mission Rondi’s first volunteer assignment was to become a pen pal to Janet. Emails, letters, and cards have continued to be shared for fourteen years! Rondi and Janet were delighted to meet each other for the first time at a Hammer Annual Breakfast. Knowing how happy Janet was to have a pen pal, Rondi agreed to become a pen pal to Leo as well.

A New Volunteer Experience Emerges This year, when the time and opportunity presented itself, Rondi’s interest in becoming a Hammer Travel Volunteer became a reality. All arrangements had been made for Hammer’s February trip to a dude ranch in Texas, when a travel volunteer had to cancel. A call went out for a replacement, and Rondi quickly responded. She was able to rearrange her work schedule, and within a week, was on her way to Texas.

Not only did Rondi enjoy the trip with those we serve, she also became friends with the trip leader and staff members who were assigned to the trip.

Rondi says, “Hammer is great. It is nice to know that there is a nonprofit out there making a difference for those with special needs. I am happy to be a part of that.”

Rondi returned from Texas energized. Her experience made her more aware of the challenges that people with disabilities face. Buildings are built for those without disabilities. Elevators are filled with those who could take the stairs, leaving no room for someone in a wheelchair. Rondi came to the realization that she was privileged to be able bodied.

She also realized that it often takes a unique individual to work with people with special needs and that direct support professionals (DSP) face challenging, albeit rewarding work, with minimal pay. This realization led Rondi to take her volunteering a step further by becoming an advocate

for persons with developmental disabilities. She did this by becoming a member of Hammer’s Public Affairs Committee.

Rally at the Capitol As it turns out, Rondi’s favorite volunteer memory is going to the "Rally at the Capitol" for the 5% Campaign. She was partnered with Adam. They rode the bus to the state capitol, rallied at the National Guard Amory, and spoke with state representatives about the needs of the developmentally disabled, including an increase in pay for our DSP staff. Rondi found it exciting to see our government, and the people we serve, in action.

While Rondi enjoys volunteering on the Public Affairs Committee, being a pen pal, and helping at the Reach for Ralph Gala, her favorite way to volunteer is with Hammer Travel, where she meets and travels with the individuals we serve.

Through her traveling volunteer experience, Rondi is able to see first-hand that she is making a difference in someone’s life.

We are happy and very grateful that you are a part of Hammer too, Rondi. Thank you for making a difference in our lives and in the lives of those we serve!

MAKE A DIFFERENCE >> If you are interested in volunteering contact: Cathy Thoma, Hammer Volunteer Manager at 952-345-8554 or cthoma@hammer.org Hammer Discoveries | 7

GIVE

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JAZZY’S GOOD LIFE

By Julane Rose, Associate Director of Development and Ellen Timmerman-Borer, Chief Development Officer You have a good life, right? With family, friends, everyday experiences, and your favorite things around you. We all want that for ourselves. At Hammer, we want that “good life” for Jasmine, too.

Jazzy's high school photo

Jasmine (Jazzy to her friends) is a beautiful and vibrant freshman at Wayzata High School. Like any teenager, she can be dramatic about her likes (the boy band, One Direction) and her dislikes (school lunches).

Jazzy's favorite class is math and she dreams of being a math teacher one day, because as she says “I always have my math brain on.”

Jasmine was born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus and needs a wheelchair to get around. Donors like you helped cover the costs for Jasmine’s pre-surgery hotel stay in Rochester, which was one of many surgeries in her young life.

Jazzy Still Needs Your Help Jasmine relies on you and the Quality of Life Fund, a fund many of you support, so she can live her life to the fullest. Because of your gifts, Jasmine has been able to take swim lessons, develop her social skills at Camp Friendship, and actively participate in school activities. With your financial support, together we are helping Jasmine live a good life. Jasmine feels connected with her classmates and teachers and is contributing in many meaningful ways. She is a neighbor and a friend who makes loving connections.

Quality of Life Fund’s History Hammer’s Quality of Life Fund, was created by Bill Bieber almost 20 years ago! Bill and several thoughtful volunteer board members launched a plan to help those who could not help themselves--people served at Hammer who do not have enough money to create the life they deserve.

Leading by example, each year, Bill has mailed a personal appeal to his friends and colleagues asking them to give to make lives better for the people we serve. You have also found ways to encourage others to give. Perhaps you have decided to forego holiday gifts, asking friends and family to give to those who will never be able to fully support themselves.

Thank you.

How You Can Help Each year, you have chosen to walk in the shoes (or roll on the wheels) of those who need your support. Your gift of any amount makes living a good, full life possible for Jasmine and so many others. Please, give the gift of a good life.

Create Your Own Personal Appeal Annually, each Hammer home hosts a party with family, friends, staff, and those we serve. Some call it our “State of the House” event. A custom brochure is created for each event 8 | Hammer Discoveries

to share news and needs with the group. This brochure is a great tool for you to inform your friends and family and to ask for their financial support.

If you would like a custom brochure to share your loved one’s story and their home needs, contact Ellen at ellen@hammer.org or call 952-277-2433.

GIVE

<< Basic Needs Expenses

QUALITY OF LIFE FUND

• • • •

This year, you have contributed more than $100,000 to help Jasmine and 274 others who need you.

New bedding Clothes Shoes Haircuts

10% Vacation Expenses

Recreational Activities Expenses

20%

40%

• • • •

Art classes Swim passes to Courage Kenny YMCA memberships Camp fees for Friendship Ventures and True Friends • Tickets to sporting events • Spending money for lunch with a volunteer or friend

• Participating in annual weekend fishing trip in Brainerd • Plane tickets to visit family • Spending money for Hammer Travel trips

30%

Needs Expenses + Medical • Tub and chair lifts for our aging individuals • • • • •

Dental work not covered by Medicaid such as new dentures Music therapy for anxiety Massage therapy for chronic pain Eye glasses Hearing aids

IN HONOR OF LISBETH VEST ARMSTRONG Gifts listed below were made to the Employee Emergency Fund in honor of Lisbeth and her years of dedication to those we serve. You contributed more than $7,000 to assist employees when they need to get to work.

Thank you!

Marshall and Dru Anderson Janet and David Anderson Lester and Barbara Bauer John and Nancy Berg Angela and George Bernhardt Peter and Julie Birgersson Charles and Deb Carlson Darlene and Lonnie Cooper Denise and Steve Cronin Lisa and Scott Dongoske Sarah Duniway Marvin and Rosemary Fish Marilyn Fryer Rebecca and Ron Furnival Carol Gottschalk Ilja and Sue Gregor Debby Grote Donald and Ida Hanna Ronald Haskvitz John and Cindy Hitt Pat and Michael Houston

Vicki Jackman John and Alice Johnson Restor and Sally Johnson Judith M. Johnson Kim Keprios Hugh and Julie Kirsch Bill Krippner Jeffrey and Susan Lambert Audrey Gail Lazarus Virgil and Patricia Leih Mary Lenertz Marcia and Fred LeVoir Living Well Disability Services Robert and Michelle Luke Mary K. Lund Mary Metzler Matt and Marty Mueller Al and Vicki Olson Sandra and David Olson Gen Olson Bruce and Merry Jo Parker Mary Patterson Father Don Piche Betty Pomerleau Chris Poppe

HAMMER STAFF CONTRIBUTORS January 1 – October 20, 2015

Julane Rose and Charlie Hautman William and Jeanne Rouch Mindy Rudd and John Craynock Greg and Patricia Salmi Mary and Russell Schmidt Norman and Janet Schuenke Nancy Schwalen Jane and Don Shaffer Cari and Jeff Sheley Ellen and Kevin Timmerman-Borer Drs. Mary and Jan Tanghe Sally and Peter Tulkki William and Nancy Wagner Pete and Carolyn Wahtera Patricia Williams Richard and Sandra Willis Pamela Wright Susann Zeug-Hoese

Although Hammer is not an official designee for United Way, you may still write in Hammer as a donation choice.

Simply write in our official name (Hammer Residences Inc) and our Tax ID # (41-0841103).

We are proud to honor you, the visionary individuals who have made a Legacy Gift by naming Hammer in their will, charitable trust or planned giving vehicle. On behalf of those we serve, thank you for your extraordinary investment in our mission.

Moses Agbonkhese Itishar Alexander Lisbeth Armstrong Samon Bahtuoh Dianne Berg Angela Bernhardt Joan Boerschinger Kelly Bosch Dan Bottiger Aaron Briggs Michael Bryant Becky Buehler Alterlene Capehart Virginia Carpenter Tomeko Champion Patrick Chelsea Clark Colin Clark Kacy Dickinson Deanna Edeh Dan L. Egan Ashley Emerson Tim Eshelman John Estrem Tom Gillespie

Theo-Wiaplah Giple Kim Hansen Patricia Hastings Jan Hopper Melissa Hutchins Tim Janssen Amy Johnson Denise Johnson Momo J. Johnson Aljahi Kamara Marko Kushnir James Landt Wally Lentz Ann Martinka Terriann T. Matejcek Regan McGowan Kevin McLaughlin Emily Miller Stefanie Miller Judith Nchang Stephanie Neufville Neh Ngosong Joanne Nolan Katherine Noon Christine Olsen

Maima Parker Brian Quast Rachel Revels Rose M. Rizzi Julane Rose Thomas L. Russeth Peter Schaffran Elizabeth Senne Cari Sheley Catherine Smith Margaret Starr-Knox Esther Swen Ellen Timmerman-Borer Jerry Towianski Becky Treb Diana Vang Ginger G. Venable Susan Walker Suzanne Wanous Tara Wegleitner Peter Wiering Jon Woidylla Cathie Wood Dennis Zelee

Hammer Discoveries | 9

HAMMER CULTURE

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THE EMPLOYEE EMERGENCY FUND Unique Hammer Culture

By Kim Hansen, Director of Human Resources

A

t Hammer, we believe in going the extra mile to support our employees, because they often go the extra mile to ensure the people we serve are living life to the fullest. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Hammer was able to help 38 employees with car repairs this year so they could get to work safely, and travel where they needed to go. The Employee Emergency Fund is quite an amazing and unique program. If an employee has car trouble, preventing them from getting to work, Hammer will provide up to $500 in emergency car repairs to the employee that need not be paid back. This program is part of our unique culture at Hammer, and has helped us to be named one of Minnesota’s 100 Best Companies to work for by Minnesota Business in 2015. Hammer Residences is also one of 13 companies that has made the Star Tribune's list of Top Workplaces each

DSP CORNER Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the foundation of our organization and should be recognized for the amazing support they provide.

These sometimes unsung heroes embody Hammer’s mission to provide those with developmental disabilities the opportunity to experience life to its fullest.

>> DSPs OF THE MONTH

JULY 2015 Larissa Brandl Eden Place AUGUST 2015 Justin Monsrud Hammer Travel SEPTEMBER 2015 Patty Brossman Eden Place “If an employee has car trouble, preventing them from getting to work, Hammer will provide up to $500 in emergency car repairs to the employee that need not be paid back.” of the six years it has been produced. Our employees are so thankful when they receive assistance for emergency car repairs. It truly makes an amazing difference to our caring and dedicated employees. A recent recipient of this support sent the following thank you: “Thank you, thank you, thank you to Hammer and the committee that runs the Employee Assistance Fund. I am so grateful and appreciative for the assistance I received. It never ceases to amaze me what a great company that I work for.

This act of generosity leaves me without words.” –A Hammer staff member and Emergency Fund recipient Hammer is grateful for all the contributions towards the Employee Emergency Fund by our generous donors and our staff members. For more information visit hammer.org/donate.

10 | Hammer Discoveries

OCTOBER 2015 Lisbeth Vest Armstrong DSP and CPO, Retired NOVEMBER 2015 Kim Whelan Royal Oaks Apartments DECEMBER 2015 Amanda Sortor ICS

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A VERY SPECIAL

VOICE OF A PARENT

“Field of Dreams”

By Kevan Nitzberg, Parent and Hammer Board Member, Public Advocacy Committee Member

B

ack in the late 1980s and early 1990s the Woody and the Nitzberg families got together to fill a need that was not being met in the Wayzata area. That need was to provide kids with special needs the opportunity to get involved in sports.

After meeting with Parker’s Lake personnel regarding the start of a weekly adaptive softball team, we began a multicommunity-based group that met on the field across from the lake and below the picnic area. Parents brought their kids for what became an institution on that field for a number of years. The players ranged from elementary to junior high school students with very diverse challenges.

As the “coach and starting pitcher,” I either gently lobbed the wiffle ball we used to the awaiting batter or set it up on the t-ball stand as needed.

Whether in braces or wheelchairs (motorized or manually operated), visually impaired or sighted, Waiting for the pitch understanding how to navigate the bases or not, everyone who showed up got to play ball, at whatever level was appropriate for them. Each one sported the hats and T-shirts the Woodys were able to supply them thanks to the sponsorships provided by various local businesses.

Parents and older siblings (including my wife, Laurie, and occasionally our daughter, Corly) served as base coaches helping students make it to first-base (a major achievement for many), or on to successive bases. Once in a great while someone managed to make it all the way to home plate! Whether a base hit, a double, a triple, or that elusive homerun, the enthusiastic onlookers in the The “Coach” and Travis

A trip around the bases

bleachers all clapped and cheered the players on, irrespective of whose kid was up or how far they managed to make it. There were no losers only winners in that weekly game which, in retrospect, was these kids’ very own “Field of Dreams.”

Our son, Travis, was one of the active members of this group of enthusiastic athletes, along with Leslie Fish and Nathan Schofield, who are all now together again, in a manner of speaking, as the people who are served by Hammer. The accomplishments they were able to achieve on that “softball” team decades ago have continued to grow.

The Team

The game of baseball connected them during their youth.

Today these young adults have another connection, bringing them together full circle, successfully navigating a different set of bases as adult members on a much larger team.

They work on a hobby farm called eQuality – Pathways to Potential. On the farm, a thriving Community Supported Agriculture operation, these young adults help supply many of our Hammer homes with fresh produce during the growing season.

Hammer Discoveries | 11

HAMMER TRAVEL

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BECAUSE I TRAVELED, I GAINED CONFIDENCE IN ME! Ann Martinka, Business Development Associate at Hammer Travel

“I was nervous at first, but then it was OK. I gained a lot of confidence in myself in going on a trip to New York City.”

P

ack Up Your Cares

chance to meet and talk with Jon after the taping. In fact, Joe says it was quite an exciting trip and has become one of his best memories.

When someone packs a suitcase to travel, they will always pack the essentials like underwear, socks, pants, shirts, and toothbrush. But, what also needs to be packed is an arsenal of personal characteristics such as patience, flexibility, kindness, and acceptance. Each to be used and reused, except for the underwear!

One More Thing to Pack for His Next Trip

One of the people we serve at Hammer, Joe G., likes his regular routine. He likes to know what is going to happen and when it will happen. He does not like surprises and most of the time is not comfortable doing new things…but that would soon change.

Now, Joe has one more characteristic from this experience to pack and bring with him on his next trip – Confidence!

Out of His Comfort Zone Joe decided he wanted to take a trip to New York City with Hammer Travel. New York City is filled with lights, smells, sounds, and many different and exciting things to do and experience. It took some convincing, but Joe moved outside his comfort zone and went with a group to the Broadway show, The Lion King, as well as The Daily Show during his stay in New York City.

Joe loves telling the story of Jon Stewart and The Daily Show, and how his name was mentioned on the air. He also had a 12 | Hammer Discoveries

This was Joe’s first travel experience without his family, and now he has his own travel story to tell. He said “I was nervous at first, but then it was ok. I gained a lot of confidence in myself by going on a trip to New York City.”

“Joe found out that even when things get

mixed up, he could work through it with help from the staff and still have a good trip.”­ — Joe's mom, Jean G. TO KNOW MORE >> If you would like to know about more Hammer Travel trips, contact Tom Ryan at 952-277-2461 or tom@hammer.org.

You can also visit the website at hammertravel.org.

Angels All Around Us

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SUPPORT

By Ginger Venable, Event Coordinator

A

s the holiday season approaches, we anticipate spending time with family and friends, along with sharing traditions to honor our loved ones who have passed away.

How do you remember loved ones during the holidays? Do you light a candle, display a photo, or share special stories? At Hammer, we honor and remember our family and friends with a lighted display of angels entitled, Angels in Hammer Heaven.

Our archivist, Rose Rizzi, and her office mate, Nan Bigot, Finance, as part of an office-decorating contest at Hammer, started the angel display tradition a few years ago. On the display, each angel has a photo and name of someone that was part of the Hammer family, who has passed away. The lighted folds of fabric on the display hold each angel in place, to honor and remember each of our friends.

The Hammer staff was so moved by the display, that Nan and Rose won the office-decorating contest by a landslide, and the angel display became part of our holiday tradition, in honoring our Hammer family members and friends who have passed away.

Hammer Discoveries | 13

CONTRIBUTORS $25,000 or greater

Anonymous Bieber Family Foundation Delta Dental of Minnesota Foundation Weber Shandwick Mary Wesley +

$10,000 to $24,999

Anonymous Greg Anderson James Bebo Michael and Mary Drazan Giving WoMN Medica Foundation Plymouth Housing and Redevelopment Authority Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation TCF Foundation *

We gratefully acknowledge contributors who have given to Hammer.

$5,000 -$9,999

Anonymous (2) Lisa and Scott Dongoske Rebecca and Ron Furnival Geritom Medical, Inc. Don and Heidi Haberman Joseph and Shelly Hoesley Pat and Michael Houston Lexus Pursuit of Potential Lurie Besikof Lapidus & Company, LLP Michael and Julie McGlynn Bruce and Merry Jo Parker Nino and Susan Pedrelli The Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation Joseph and Kathy Reis Jim Ryberg Mike and Pam Sime Don and Annie Smithmier State Street Realty Advisors Drs. Mary and Jan Tanghe Alan and Barbara Tennessen Karole Whipps

$1,000 - $4,999

Absolute Sourcing, Inc. ACI Asphalt Contractors, Inc. Allegra Print & Imaging Joel and Mary Amundson Dr. Kevin and Barbara Amundson Lisa Anderson Marshall and Dru Anderson Avtex Solutions, LLC Dorothy A. Bailey Bankers Title, LLC Garry and Shannon Banks John and Sally Battaiola Bell Mortgage Benevity Community Impact Fund Andrew Bennett The Beverly Foundation Mike and Julie Braun Carmen Bringgold Buffalo Wild Wings Ted and Amy Carlson Brian and Cindy Carroll Sarah Caruso Coborns Delivers CocoLaPalm Seaside Resort John and Pauline Coleman George and Peggy Crolick Lisa and Tim Curtin Joe and Sondra Dahmer Charitable Fund Jim and Brenda Damiani George and Carol Daum Gerry and Vicki Degner Ditter Cooling & Heating Enterprise Holdings Foundation Esch Construction Supply, Inc. Fidelity Bank Jaime Frischmann Maryanne Galvin Jean and Bill Gjetson Debra and Darold Gjoraas Don and Becky Gromek Susan Argall Haas and Brian Haas Hamel Lions Club Jess Friedrichs and Scott Henderson Hennepin County Environment and Energy Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP John and Cindy Hitt Linda and Kenneth Holmen Bradley A. Johnson

14 | Hammer Discoveries

| January 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 20, 2015

Karen Lafferty Design Joe and Dawn Keller Knights of Columbus Chanhassen #10031 Arne Kolbjornsen Jo Ann Koltes Rikki Lalim Jeffrey and Susan Lambert Laurence and Jean LeJeune Janet and Steven Lerch Lions Club of Maple Grove Lions Club of Plymouth Lions Club of Wayzata Hosain Lipson MacQueen Equipment Mall of America David and Kimberly Marrone Martinson Clinic Foundation Andrew and Jennifer Matysik Pat and Victoria McConnell Mark and Diane McMorrow Medica Microsoft Giving Campaign * Solveig Misner and Leigh Wold Morgan Stanley/Peter Sellwood Christy and Terry Morse Michael Moschogianis Matt and Marty Mueller Denny and Mary Newell Kate and Richard Olson Otten Bros. Nursery Mary Patterson Bob and Barb Paulson Cathryn Peel Dan and Linda Pelak Greg Petryszyn Popp Communications Chris Poppe Dan and Katherine Poppe Ring Foundation Sarah Ring Rotary Club of Excelsior Minnetonka Kent and Traci Scholten Fund of the Bank of America George and Audrey Schultz Dan and Helena Seidel Peter and Jen Sellwood Serrano 17 Jane and Don Shaffer Siegel Family Foundation Mitchell and Elva Sill Adam Skibek Renee E. Solinger-Audette Tom and Laura Stein Mark and Izabella Stipakov Michael and Barbara Tenney Thrivent Choice Program Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation * Richard and Nancy Timp Tolomatic Toro Company * Truist Barbara Tuckner Paul and Sarah Tuckner U.S. Bank Wayne and Kathy Vagts Bruce Volkart Howard and Gladys Volkart John and Judy Vosika Mark and Kathy Wallraff Carla Warner Warners' Stellian Company Inc. Wayzata BP/Glen Lakes Service Center Wells Fargo Insurance Services USA, Inc. Ted and Erin Wentink West Suburban Women's Club Whitney Foundation Wyndham Grand - Shelborne Les and Mary Anne Young

$500 - $999

Anonymous Alerus Financial James and Patricia Amlicke Janet and David Anderson DeWalt H. Ankeny, Jr. Fund of the Mpls Foundation Susan Baker Lawrence and JoAnn Barbetta Sheila and John Barbetta Irvin and Kay Bergsagel Jeff and Widdy Bird Noah and Becky Bly Bremer Bank Tim and Julie Bullock Sandra C. Carlson Bruce and Diana Clark

Cummings Mobility Conversion Edward and Sherry Ann Dayton Denis L. Harrington Consulting DeWitt Mackall Crounse & Moore Loretta Docken John Dockter and Cindy Vavra Etta E. Pettyjohn Trust Marvin and Rosemary Fish Sheila J. Foss Bruce and Kim Gillespie Kathryn H. Glen Gray Plant Mooty Martha and Edward Gschneidner Tom and Mary Harding Scott Hedberg David Hess and Theresa Dangers-Hess Mary Hilgert Ronald E. Hovda Pam Howe iHeartMedia Dan and Julie Johnson Sherri and Steve Johnson Lane Jorgensen Kevin and Pat Kennefick Dorothy Keprios Knights of Columbus #13096 Knights of Columbus #13359 Joe and Gina Koltes Sheila and Peter Lind Loffler Companies Michelle and Jimmy Lureen Medline Foundation Kevan and Laurie Nitzberg Northland Country Club Al and Vicki Olson Orville and Vonnie Olson Tim and Nancy O'Malley Mary and Michael Ongstad Michael and Sue Oreck Daniel Palmer Park Tavern Michael Patterson PepsiCo Foundation * Pohlad Family Foundation * Gary & Susan Rappaport Family Fund Red Cow Restaurant Sandberg Leih Corporation Peter and Geri Scherer Norman and Janet Schuenke David Sovell Strand Industrial Machinery Co LLC Linda and Bob Tomaschko Marie Tuckner Nolan and Anne Vaughan Walt Disney World James and Wynona Warner Michael and Mackie Wesley Julia and Wymond WesleyWong John Wetterlund and Laurel Feddema Alan and Connie Wilensky Linda Zimmerman and Associates

$100 - $499

Anonymous (3) Tim and Wanda Aaser Amir and Sarah Abdelwahed Margaret and John Abdo ADP, Inc. All Over Media T.L. Althauser Joanne Anderson Robert Anderson Aramark Refreshment Services Arts & Flowers Atlantis Pools AV for You Pat and Sophia Baisley Tony Baisley and Mark Murphy Bank of America * David and Christine Bardwell Lester and Barbara Bauer Benilde-St. Margaret's Hockey Team John and Nancy Berg Josephine Berge Laura Berger Michael and Cathy Bishop Gregg Bjork Sue Blake Tom and Angela Blanchette Margot and Jim Blewett Bob's Shoe Repair, Inc.

Allison Bolgrean Lance Bolson Earl and Margaret Borer Dave Brand Dawn Brasch Cathy and Jerry Brennan Carol Bros Wes Bue and Denise Eng Buehler Family Builder Direct Remodeling Business Choice, Inc. Paul and Mayone Byron Candlelight Floral & Gifts Carissa Barry and Julie Carlson Marlan and Janis Carlson Tim and Kelly Carlson Dave and Lin Carter Chanhassen Dinner Theatres Stephen Charrier Cliff Foundation Coldwell Banker Burnet Phillip and Mary Jo Cole Alfred Colling Michele Combs Community Shares of Minnesota Darlene and Lonnie Cooper Shirley Cormier Gary and Susan Cramer CSM Bakery William and Joanne Culbert Patrice and James Dahl Judith and Kent Davidson Nancy Davidson Day Distributing Designer Teez Custom Tony Determan Matthew and Patti Dion DoTopia Louis Doelz Dave and Jean Dovenberg Sarah Duniway Elements Therapeutic Massage EverGreene Jewelers Michael and Jackie Fair Gene and Cindy Farrell Michael and Joan Farris Patrick Ferguson Kristin Finberg Bob and Terrisa Fisher Debbie Flannery Tom Flicker Food Perspectives, Inc. The Foursome Shirley (Rip) Freeman Marilyn Fryer Gina Gaglia James and Joan Gardner Kathryn Garin Joan Gecik Myra Giesener Greg and Janet Gillies Sam Gondeck Donna Gorski Andy and Cheri Granberg Gray Plant Mooty Foundation Sharon Green Ilja and Sue Gregor Debby Grote Tim and Karla Haley Shirley Hammes Donald and Ida Hanna Kay Hannemann Gary and Barbara Hanovich Michael and Margaret Hanrahan Denis and Caroline Harrington Ronald Haskvitz Judy and Jim Hathaway Robert A. Hensel Dorothy Herman Mary Hill Shelly Hill Daniel and Barbara Hoffman Erin Holmen Sandy Lynne Hongerholt Ben Horsch Hot Plate Marianne Houlihan James and Ann Howard Robert and Janet Huddleston Barb Huether Dick and Sandy Hume Carol Jacobson Kelly Jacobson Perry Jacobson Stanley and Margaret Jaffy Vicki Luehmann and Frank Janes Amy and Craig Jensen

Dale and Janice Johnson Judith M. Johnson Virginia Johnson Heidi and Jeff Jopp Richard and Kathy Jordan Judd Frost Clothiers, Inc. Julie Jurrjens Leonard Juster Jay Kasdan Anne Lynn Kelley Kim Keprios David and Susan Kibler Kimberly Clark Foundation * Kristine Kircher Hugh and Julie Kirsch Dan H. Klein Barbara and David Kleist Vicki Klima Knights of Columbus #13506 Knights of Columbus #3949 Mike Kogelis George Krozser Dena Kuenzel Emilie Kuenzel Lafayette Club Gabby Lambert Paul and Falen Lambert James Lassell Mark and Joni Lauffenburger Virgil and Patricia Leih Mary Leisz Sher and Roger Leksen Teresa Lenertz Marcia and Fred LeVoir Steve and Katie LeVoir Herbert and Kathie Levy Lili Salon Spa Living Well Disability Services Lommen, Abdo, Cole, King & Stageberg PA Robert and Michelle Luke Bill Luther and Janet Robert Marie Mack Robert and Ardell Mack Elizabeth Mansfield Marriott City Center Massage Energy Therapy Inc. Marcia Massee Michael Mattson Kerri and Travis McAfoos Edward McConville John McCoy Kevin McCoy James and Adriana Metz John Meyer Midwest Financial Search Kathy and Tom Miller Family Foundation Ross and Darcy Miller Richard and Susan Milteer Minneapolis Elks Lodge 44 Minneapolis Portfolio Group Minnesota Timberwolves Minnesota Twins J. Keith and Marilyn Moyer Renee Mueller Mystic Lake Hotel and Casino Mike and Karen Nelson Paul Ness New Reflections Salon Kenneth and Kathy Noblet Sandra and David Olson Lillian Orenstein Mark and Robin Osmanski Pakor, Inc Joe Parker Doug and Marilyn Paul Catherine Paulson Jeff and Ellen Pearson Bill Perrine Lois Peterson Mary Kaye Pfau Susan and Greg Pfeiffer Father Don Piche Betty Pomerleau Maureen Pranhofer Kelly Putney Abe Quiring Cheryl and Geoffrey Raile William Rebholz Redstone Matt Retterath H.G. and Kimberly Reynolds Linda and Michael Richardson Dick and Jaye Richter Riedell Shoes Mark and Helene Roback Wayne and Jennifer Rosengren William and Jeanne Rouch Mindy Rudd and John Craynock

Carole Sayer Nathan Schofield Rita Schofield David and Marcy Schuh Nancy Schwalen Kristin Seibold Select Ride Paul and Marilyn Serber David Shimota John and Francoise Shirley Jill and Steven Sicheneder Thomas and LeAnn Silver Joni Slack Gary and Gwen Solseth Lloyd Sorensen Tom and Pam Spitznagle Mark and Gayle Stage Brian and Anne Stanchfield Sherm Stanchfield Ben and Mary Stephens Stewart Title Pete and Stephanie Stiles Christine and Allen Strande Trevor and Traci Studanski Kathy Suddendorf Arnulf and Deni Svendsen Bob and Carole Swales Talenti Gelato Richard and Pamela Tanaka Target Center Juris and Jackie Terauds Barbara Thode Verna Thurs Andy and Carole Truchinski Jack and Cheryl Tuckner Tuttles Thomas and Lorri Underwood The UPS Store Elizabeth and Kent Urness Gay and Deb Urness David and Jan Usset John VanDanacker Lisa Vandenham Ron and Shirley Vescio Linda Vest and John Klein Leah Wandersee Matthew Ward Mark and Annette Weber Elsie Weisenbacher Wells Fargo Wellspring Health Center Keith and Willie Mae Westbrook Michael Westergreen Kathryn White Patricia Williams Thomas and Rose Winkels Mary Ann and John Wolters Margaret Wong Julie Wood Karen and Scott Wooldridge Rick and Mary Worringer Pamela Wright Lori Wurth Wyndham Grand Chicago Riverfront Chuck and Kitty Yancey Bill and Bonnie Young Zerorez

Under $100

Anonymous A la Mode Boutique and Nail Spa Donald Abel Al Vento William and Diane Allen Amazon Smile Gervae Anderson Jody L. Anderson Steven and Mary Jean Babcock Barbette Sharon Barrett Stephen and Charlene Barron Susan Becker Virginia Beckett Matthew and Stephanie Beebe James and LeeAnn Belski Louis and Sandra Bennett Matt Berg Rodney Bernu Best Buy * Peter and Julie Birgersson Mark Blazei Blue Plate Restaurants Erin Boerschel Kari and David Boese Jeffrey and Sarah Boggess Jane Bolter Mark and Sara Bonk Earl Borene

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of our donor records, errors occasionally occur. If your name has been omitted, misspelled or misplaced, please accept our apologies and contact Cari at 952-277-2454.

Alvin and Janice Bottineau Nita Bradford Breadsmith Chris and Tracy Brewer Joan and Quincy Brown Kristina BruggemanMaag Brunswick Zone XL Bryant Lake Bowl Jennifer Buchanan Kenneth and Laurie Buckeye Erin Buntain Cafe Latte Cannon River Winery Charles and Deb Carlson Scott and Gerda Carlson Harold and Marilyn Christensen Glenda Condon Joyce Holt Conley Patrick Conry Scott and Deborah Cooper Sue and Denny Cota Ed Cracraft CRAVE Denise and Steve Cronin Cub Foods Lt. Andrew Daum John and Rebecca Davis Margaret Davis Dean DeGroot Stacey Dekalb Nancy Dorau Peggy Douglas The Dressel Family James and Norma Driver Gretchen Dullinger Daniel Duty Edina Grill Eric Eischens Excelsior Brewing Company Fat Lorenzos Jennifer and Johnny Fils'Aime Duane Findstad Mitchell and Marjorie Fink Cheryl Fischer Harry and Elizabeth Fischman Leslie Fish Patricia A. Fleming Steven and Julie Friedman Fulton Brewery Future Funds ATM Gandhi Mahal George and the Dragon

Will Gharrity Gianni's Steakhouse John Giblin and Randee Held Knute and Joann Gilbertson Diane Gillespie Gina Maria's Pizza Sara Givand Gold Nugget Tavern and Grille Esther Goldberg Marlene Goldberg Carol Gottschalk Therese Grina Sylvia Grismer Grizzly's Wood-Fired Grill Shirley and Lowen Grodnick Zaimah Hakim Wes Hamilton Thomas and Donna Hanrahan Ron and Linda Hanson Maureen Harrington Gary and Laura Hawley Hennepin Theatre Trust Thomas and Linda Herdale Bradley Herman Rose Hexum Angela and Cole Hickman Cole and Katherine Hickman Janine Hogan Dave Hornung Sandra Hougan John Hovren Kent and Marilyn Howe Thomas and Sharon Hughes Kay Hunt Dr. Heather H. Huseby Ichiban Japanese Steak House Vicki Jackman Richard and Kathleen Jackson Jade Fountain Chinese Restaurant Noel and Ruth Jagolino Meghan Jahnke Susan Jans Constance Jennison Jimmy John's Brian and Kelly Johnson Bruce Johnson Larry and Mary Johnson Restor and Sally Johnson

Steve and Marion Kahn Melody Kannas Sharon Kapeluck Jeff and Raleigh Karatz Hilary Kershberg Michael and Mary King Gerald Konietzko Bill Krippner Emmet and Norma Kurtz Don and Elaine Lange Kelly Larmon Philip and Joann Larson Robert and Sue Latham Audrey Gail Lazarus Andy and Rachel Lee Kevin and Kathleen Leighton Mary Lenertz Dr. Richard and Joan Lentz Let's Dish David and Laurie Levi Gayle Lightowler Lions Tap Mary Lou Loacker Mary Margaret LoahrWright Kristin Lofquist Dr. Tony Lopez Corey Luke Mary K. Lund Steven and Janice Lundquist Lunds & Byerly's Ginger Luoma Anderson Alicia Luther Lydia Mackenzie Maggies Family Restaurant Jenny Makovsky Julie Manworren Martin's Jay and Jan Matykiewicz Maynard's Restaurant Jeanette McChesney McCormick's Terry and Mark McFarland Jim and Robin McWethy Melting Pot Dwight and Roberta Merryman Danforth Messerly Mary Metzler Mathew and Laurie Meyers Mid America Festivals Mill Valley Kitchen Barry and Mary Jo Miller RJ Mitchellette Jessica Moland Jay Molter

Frederick Moore and Patricia Pfeifer Skeeter Moore Tyler and Beth Morrison Joe Mueller James and Kathryn Murphy John Murphy Clareyse Nelson David Nelson Sharon Nelson Kurt Nowacki Gen Olson Dr. Susan Olson Cathy Otto Oxendale's Market Rondi P. Pacheco Betsy and Bruce Pankonin Paradise Charter Cruises Pat's Tap Peace Coffee Daniel Pearl Barbara Pearson Penn Cycle and Fitness Mary Ann Pfeiffer Joe Piersak Mary Plant Patricia Pocrnich Michael and Renee Popkin Glen and Kim Prodahl Deborah Rada Red Stag Supperclub Allen and LaVonne Ribbe Ribiki Cheese, Ltd Roasted Pear Mary Roek Fredric and Andrea Rose Audrae Rosenzweig Kim Ryan Marvin and Judy Saarela Sakana Sushi and Bistro Bar Greg and Patricia Salmi Janice Sanner Jill Sato Delores Schlaifer Mary and Russell Schmidt Dr. Marvin and Stefanie Segal Dewey Senneseth Josh and Jessica Senso Ina Shaughnessy Perry and Loreen Silverman Skin Therapease Forrest Smith Mary Smith Patty and Greg Solum

Mary Ellen Sparrow Mary Stage Stages Theatre Lee Stephenson David Stevenson and Carolyn Hartwigson Katherine Steward Derek Strande Sun & Slope Outfitters Surley Brewing Peggy Swanson Juanita Sweet Cheryl Sykora James Theros and Kathryn Dowling Art and Mary Thole Tiny Acorn Portraits Tonkadale Greenhouse Jan Traff Trenk Mechanic LC Frank and Toodie Trestman S. L. and S. D. Truempi Shirley Truempi Frank Tsuchiya Sally and Peter Tulkki Ellie Tungseth Clay and Adele Tutland Dave and Jodine Urdahl Dennis and Margaret Valentyn Valle d'Or Town Home Neighbors Claudia and Douglas Vendel Francisca Villamil William and Nancy Wagner Pete and Carolyn Wahtera Allison Warner Amy Wartick Wayzata Bar & Grill Jacqueline Weinzetl Robert and Susan White Brad Wicklund Paul and Janice Wicklund T.A. Willems Brian and Jona Williams Richard and Sandra Willis Guyle and Barbara Wills Peter and Judy Wolf Amanda Ylvisaker Susann Zeug-Hoese The Zumbusch Family

ALVINA HAMMER HERITAGE SOCIETY We are proud to honor you, the visionary individuals who have made a Legacy Gift by naming Hammer in their will, charitable trust or planned giving vehicle. On behalf of those we serve, thank you for your extraordinary investment in our mission.

Anonymous (3) **Leonard Aase + Lisa M. Anderson Margaret and James + Argall Steven Argall Trust Lisbeth and Mark Armstrong Dorothy A. Bailey Leigh Bailey Angela and George Bernhardt Richard and Judith Corson Judith and Kent Davidson Rosemary and Marvin Fish Shirley (Rip) and Ted + Freeman Jean and Bill Gjetson Don and Heidi Haberman **Claire and Don + Hinrichs Beulah + and Ingvald + Hongerholt Dean Hongerholt Trust Pat and Michael Houston **Mary Ann and Jack + Huddleston Bill and Joan + Krippner Laura Langer If you are interested in Robert and Michele Luke learning more about Jill and Lewis Mithun making a planned gift Jean and Tim + Nelson Bruce and Merry Jo Parker to Hammer, please **Robert M. Reed + Trust visit our website or call LaVonne and Allen Ribbe Ellen at 952-277-2433. **Clara Schonlau + Elaine and Marshall + Siegel Don and Annie Smithmier Deloris + and Wallace + Solseth Ellen and Kevin Timmerman-Borer Barbara A. Tuckner **Grace + and Paul + Voetmann Pete and Carolyn Wahtera **Mary Wesley +

** Legacy gift received Bold type = new to Heritage Society + Deceased

Red type = Monthly Electronic Transfer Contributors * Matching Gift Company + Deceased

HONORARIUMS AND MEMORIALS | May 16 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 20, 2015 In Honor of

Christopher Blasewitz Tom and Laura Stein Marie Byron Paul and Mayone Byron Ted Deikel Ronald Haskvitz Leslie Fish Susan Becker Marlene Goldberg

Sue Oreck Lillian Orenstein Joe and Kathy Reis Virginia Beckett Cathy Schubilski Mary and Russell Schmidt Beth Siewert Audrae Rosenzweig Amy Sovell David Sovell

Elle Furnival Marvin and Judy Saarela

Suzanne Wanous Marilyn Fryer

Cindy Garin Kathryn Garin

Robin Westergreen Michael Westergreen

Hammer Staff Gerald and Katherine Roehl

Brenda Damiani Gina Damiani Mary Damiani Peggy Damiani Romona Damiani Josephine Berge

Claire Hinrichs Sandra Hougan Don and Elaine Lange Dean Hongerholt Michael and Cathy Bishop Elaine Jabenis Scott and Deborah Cooper Pat McConnell Robert and Ardell Mack Pat, Victoria and Michelle McConnell Atlantis Pools Michael Oreck Paul and Marilyn Serber

Sammi and Brandon Marshall and Julie Oreck Mark Weiss Michael and Sue Oreck Ginger Bell Marja Engler Leroy and Miriam Kieffer Joyce and Stuart Newman Marcia Pinkus Paul and Melissa Siegel Shirely Ziptin Elaine Siegel

In Memory of Lynn Aase Karole Whipps

Kelly Bonk Mark and Sara Bonk Kate Budd Whitney Foundation Wheelock Whitney Flora Burandt Renee Mueller John and Andrea Casey Greg and Janet Gillies Donald George Gervae Anderson Jeremy Grecula Barbara Thode Alvina Hammer Kathryn H. Glen Janet Haskvitz James and LeeAnn Belski Louis and Sandra Bennett The Beverly Foundation Jane Bolter Harold and Marilyn Christensen Phillip and Mary Jo Cole Stacey Dekalb Cheryl Fischer Harry and Elizabeth Fischman Steven and Julie Friedman John Giblin and Randee Held Therese Grina

Sylvia Grismer Gary and Laura Hawley Shelly Hill Kay Hunt Dr. Heather H. Huseby Larry and Mary Johnson Bruce Johnson Leonard Juster Emmet and Norma Kurtz David and Laurie Levi Lommen, Abdo, Cole, King & Stageberg PA Minneapolis Portfolio Group David Nelson Barbara Pearson Glen and Kim Prodahl Kelly Putney Fredric and Andrea Rose Delores Schlaifer Dr. Marvin and Stefanie Segal John and Francoise Shirley Juanita Sweet James Theros and Kathryn Dowling Frank and Toodie Trestman S. L. and S. D. Truempi Shirley Truempi Brad Wicklund T.A. Willems Peter and Judy Wolf Donovan Hinrichs Rick and Mary Worringer Beulah Hongerholt Michael and Cathy Bishop

Beth Kato's Brother Marvin and Rosemary Fish Terry Kirsch Myra Giesener Jessica Moland Deborah Rada Bob Koltes Don and Becky Gromek Jo Ann Koltes Christine and Allan Strande Margaret Mattson Shirley Cormier Barry and Mary Jo Miller Gladys Maxson Juris and Jackie Terauds Sue Murray Alan and Barbara Tennessen Thomas Potter Gervae Anderson Don Rosen Scott and Deborah Cooper Missy Sehnert Duane Findstad Lee Stephenson Betty Lou Snyder Nancy Dolan Claudia and Douglas Vendel Bill Swanson Judy and Jim Hathaway Barry and Mary Jo Miller John Murphy James and Kathryn Murphy

Dennis and Margaret Valentyn Marlene Tombers Rose M. Rizzi Robert Westergreen Valle d'Or Town Home Neighbors Miriam Wexler Patty and Greg Solum Ann Carr Gordon Elleby Bob Griffiths Janet Kopietz Kathy Lewis Jane Lick Bill Pepper Jere Urista Shirley (Rip) Freeman Paul Molzahn Phyllis Normand Claudia Porter Renee Mueller Elliot Royce Nathan Schwartz Eva Taran Michael and Sue Oreck Jim Finney Don Rudd Jeff and Ellen Pearson

Hammer Discoveries | 15

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT NO. 31688 Hammer Residences, Inc. 1909 East Wayzata Blvd.

Wayzata, MN 55391 (952) 473-1261 hammer.org

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Please mail all versions of duplicates, deletions and incorrect addresses to Hammer.

Contact Cari Sheley at 952-277-2454 or csheley@hammer.org with questions.

HAMMER HIGHLIGHTS

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10% post consumer recovered content

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REACH FOR RALPH 2016

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, July 14, 2016

AUGUST

JJ HILL DAYS 2015

We have outgrown Nicollet Island Pavillion and are excited to move to Earle Brown Heritage Center.

Plan to join us with your friends and family to fill ample space and enjoy the beautiful outdoor patio to make Reach for Ralph 2016 the best yet.

Again this year, Hammer took part in Wayzata’s largest community event, JJ Hill Days 2015. Thanks to everyone who stopped by our booth and painted Ralph statues. It was great to see you. The parade was also a big hit along with the food and community engagement.

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SEPTEMBER

SAVE THE DATE! HAMMER’S FAMILY DAY PICNIC Saturday, September 17, 2016

OCTOBER

LISBETH VEST ARMSTRONG'S RETIREMENT Best wishes on your next chapter Lisbeth! Thank you for your service to Hammer and your dedication and support for the people we serve.

We had a successful family day picnic this year…and already have the date set for 2016. Save the date!

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DELTA DENTAL OF MINNESOTA FOUNDATION

NOVEMBER

GIVE TO THE MAX DAY 2015

Equal Opportunity Employer

We greatly appreciate the generosity of our supporters during this year’s Give to the Max Day! You helped us reach our goal, raising over $79,000. Thank you. This money will help us to continue our mission to provide adults and children with developmental disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest.

Hammer Received a $25,000 Delta Dental Grant and Declared 2016 the Year of the Smile!

The $25K Delta Dental Grant will help the people we support achieve good oral health in 2016. We believe each person we serve should have access to the resources to achieve a healthy and bright smile that that comes from consistent daily oral health.

Hammer: Because everyone deserves to experience life to its fullest.