A New Beginning Emily Cox and Mason by Laurie Carlson Emily Cox of Minnetonka, Minn., Mason Had Many Tasks to Learn to Help Is a Young Adult Determined to Be Emily

Home , Peter (dog), Sam (army dog)

Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota ails F R O M M I N N E S O T A TFor Friends of Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota Winter 2009 Vol. 20 Issue 1 In 1988, Lucky, pictured above, was the first dog we adopted from an animal shelter. She was homeless and was scheduled to be euthanized that day. Lucky served as our demonstration dog for 11 years. She is symbolic of our commitment to save homeless dogs while fulfilling our mission to serve people with disabilities. A New Beginning Emily Cox and Mason by Laurie Carlson Emily Cox of Minnetonka, Minn., Mason had many tasks to learn to help is a young adult determined to be Emily. He retrieves her shoes when independent and to move forward she’s preparing to leave the house, into a promising future. Emily was and he picks up dropped items. In an born with ataxia and neuropathy. emergency, he’s trained to get help She also has a mitochondrial or a phone. He braces himself to help metabolic disorder. The conditions Emily go from sitting to standing up. are progressive; by fifth grade, Emily Mason also learned the command ‘tug’ was using a wheelchair. Her balance to pull off clothing such as socks and is unsteady, she tires easily, and she gloves. He also tugs the door shut has chronic pain. Nevertheless, friends when they leave the house. and family describe her as upbeat and highly motivated. Now that training is done, Emily encourages others to get a Service During high school, Emily wanted to Dog. “You get so much more than prepare herself to live independently. you expect,” she says. “A dog gives A friend saw a working team so much love back to you. I wouldn’t from Hearing and Service Dogs trade the experience for anything. It’s of Minnesota at a mall. The friend really worthwhile.” She says the most Emily and Mason suggested that Emily contact the important part of having Mason is organization about getting a dog of Rookie was retired in 2008 due to “the companionship and independence her own. a behavior problem. Despite the he gives me. I feel secure with him disappointment of having to retire around.”Y In 2007, she was paired with Service Rookie, Emily knew she wanted Dog, Rookie, but unfortunately another Service Dog to help her Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota remain independent. She was quickly uses a variety of mixed breed and paired with Mason, a yellow Labrador purebred dogs in our training. We retriever. The two dogs have very have had great success with donated From the Executive Director...... 2 different temperaments, and Emily labs, like Mason, and are thankful for Celebrating 20 Years...... 3 had to relearn how to work as a team breeders like the Mosers who support Jeanne Wiger & Baffin...... 3 with a new dog. Rookie was quick our work. To learn more about donating Alex Cracraft & Windy...... 4 and excitable; Mason has a calmer and a dog or puppy, visit our website at Wanda Viellieux & Redford...... 4 more easygoing temperament. www.hsdm.org. Legacy Club...... 5 “I like Mason. He’s fun and goofy THOSE WHO MADE THIS In The News...... 5 because he’s still young,” Emily says. PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Development News...... 8 “He’s calm and takes his time. He’s Dog Source Steve Sletten & Rhett...... 9 a thinker.” Emily says she enjoyed Charlene and Jerome Moser New Staff Member...... 9 her new beginning with Mason as a Charm Labradors Cindy Murphy & Marley...... 10 teammate. “I like encouraging him and Veterinary Services Volunteer Spotlight...... 10 giving him lots of praise,” she says. Valley View Pet Hospital Lindsey Hjerpe & Rosco...... 11 “Mason is a typical Labrador, who is a big fan of food and lots of attention!” Puppy Raisers Go Green!...... 12 The Scott Family

www.hsdm.org Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things

From the Executive Director Volume 20 Issue 1 Al Peters & Rosie permanent home for the organization, Tails From Minnesota and I believe we have finally found it. Published quarterly for friends and supporters of Although the T’s are not crossed, and Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota the I’s are not dotted, I am certain that we will move into our own permanent Editor/Layout/Design Alan M. Peters Sue Schuster Looking Back: Our 20th Year! facility during 2009! Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota I am proud to announce that, during is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life 2009, we at Hearing and Service Dogs This decision is a bold move and it for people who are deaf, hard of hearing th or disabled by creating mutually beneficial of Minnesota are celebrating our 20 has not been made lightly. In fact, our partnerships with specially trained dogs. year of service to the community! In Board of Directors and staff have We envision a future in which every February 1989 we certified Annie, our listened to our clients, carefully person who needs and wants an first fully trained Hearing Dog, for planned and considered every possibil- assistance dog can have one. graduate Marcy Bury. Annie was a ity. We have determined together that Hearing Dogs are adopted from local animal terrier mix that I adopted from Min- it is time for us to take this next step. shelters, placed with deaf or hard-of-hearing clients and specially trained to alert clients to neapolis Animal Control (sometimes important sounds in their environment. Service called “the pound.”) That was the Part of the process of making the new Dogs are trained to help people with physical disabilities by pulling their wheelchairs, picking beginning of a long, exciting process facility a reality involves embark- up or carrying objects, opening doors, flipping of building the organization and of light switches and performing other daily tasks. ing on a capital campaign to raise the Dogs, training and supplies are provided to each training and placing more and more money to pay for the property and client free of charge. assistance dogs each year. make the many improvements neces- Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota sary to turn it into a state-of-the-art 2537 25th Avenue South More than 270 assistance dog teams training and kennel facility. Without Minneapolis MN 55406 612-729-5986, 612-729-5914 tty/fax have graduated since our beginnings, the support of our volunteers and con- e-mail [email protected] and the organization has grown from tributors, we never could have come website www.hsdm.org only me, working part-time out of the so far these first 20 years. I am Board of Directors spare bedroom in my home, to our confident that with your continued Mary Quist President Carlos Villalpando Vice President current staff of 16 squeezed into our help, we will complete the capital Lisa Knazan Secretary 7,000-square-foot training and kennel campaign and provide the infrastruc- Len Washko Treasurer facility in Minneapolis. Throughout ture necessary to train more--and even Sara Braziller Kara Fairbairn Lisa Knazan MarySue Krueger this year, we will have numerous better--assistance dogs for people who John Parzych opportunities for you to join in the have disabilities. Maureen Pranghofer th celebration of our 20 year. Watch for Staff updates on our Web site and in future I will need the help of many people to To reach a staff member via phone, dial issues of Tails from Minnesota. complete this process, and I hope you 612-729-5986. When you hear the greeting, press the extension number. will help us in any way you can. Feel Mary Budge Director of Operations free to contact me with your thoughts [email protected] ext. 158 Laurie Carlson Event & Volunteer Coordinator and ideas. [email protected] ext. 113 Rob Carrick Puppy Program Coordinator 2009—An Uncertain New Year [email protected] ext. 111 Janet Cobus Development Director In the December 2008 publication, [email protected] ext. 153 Nonprofit Current Conditions Report, Mona Elder Graduate Services Coordinator [email protected] ext. 155 the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Shelly Hiemer Marketing & Communications Specialist revealed that, of 660 nonprofit organi- [email protected] ext. 115 zations surveyed in December, more Rita Jesse Graduate Presenter Julianne Larsen Special Programs Coordinator than half experienced a decline in rev- [email protected] ext. 117 enue during 2008 and 47 percent noted Jessica Nadeau Development Assistant a reduction in individual contributions. [email protected] ext. 152 Angela Olson Kennel Manager Consequently, many organizations are [email protected] ext. 156 putting expansion plans on hold or Lee Perish Account Assistant [email protected] 612-729-5914 tty Marcy and Annie eliminating staff positions precisely at Al Peters Executive Director a time when more services are needed [email protected] ext. 116 Planning for the Future in the community. Thomas Rehbein Administrative Assistant [email protected] ext. 151 We have seen many changes during Dylan Evans Administrative Assistant these last 19 years, so it is appropri- At Hearing and Service Dogs of Min- [email protected] ext. 157 th Maria Dunn, Jenna Nikodym, ate that, as we enter our 20 year of nesota, we have seen some of the ef- Caitlin Weiss Kennel Assistants service, we prepare for even more fects of the downturn in the economy, changes in the organization. For some as well as higher postage and gasoline time, we have been searching for a (continued on page 8)

2 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 3 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things You’re Never Too Old Jeanne Wiger by Jessi Hiemer People who meet Jeanne Wiger of dropped items, helps Jeanne balance West St. Paul, Minn., notice her warm while walking, and serves as a brace smile, artistic view of the world, and to help her stand. Jeanne says, “Baffin caring heart. What they don’t see are helps me live. He is a healing presence the effects of a childhood bout of who gives me a sense of safety and polio. security.” He also continues his work with Jeanne in her practice, bringing a In her mid 50s, Jeanne was diagnosed calming presence to stressful situations with post-polio syndrome. As she in counseling. ages, Jeanne experiences back problems, difficulty with balance, Jeanne says people are never too and the effects of having both knees old for a Service Dog. “This is not a replaced. Those things can make luxury, but a necessity,” she says. “It day-to-day life difficult for Jeanne. It makes life doable and enjoyable. I is difficult for her to pick up dropped find that by having a dog work with items, and longer walks—such as the you, you can accomplish things you one to her mailbox—are dangerous couldn’t get done otherwise.”Y because of her balance issues. Did you know Hearing and Service Jeanne knows well the healing Jeanne and Baffin Dogs of Minnesota is one of only a few power of a dog in a person’s life. As out of the office, Jeanne says she organizations that will train a person’s a marriage and family therapist and wondered if he would also help her pet dog? To learn more about Service practicing life coach, Jeanne has used with the physical challenges she Dogs and how you can help, call Janet dogs in her practice for more than 15 faced daily. Deb Schneider from All- Cobus at 612-729-5986 or visit our years. When her first therapy dog, Seb, Breed Animal Training gave Jeanne website at www.hsdm.org. passed away, Jeanne carefully chose information on Hearing and Service THOSE WHO MADE THIS her next companion. Baffin, a British Dogs of Minnesota and encouraged PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Labrador. her to consider specialized training for Dog Source Baffin. Pet dog Baffin became a vital part of her practice from a very early age. As Today, Jeanne says, Baffin is a huge Field Trainer he continued training, both in and asset in her house. He picks up Michael Schneider 1989 to 2009—Celebrating 20 Years of Independence, Freedom, and Peace of Mind

Throughout 2009 Hearing and Service In each and every way you helped, To help us celebrate, we are compiling Dogs of Minnesota will be celebrating you assisted us in placing four hearing a history of our organization and we our 20th anniversary of partnering dogs, eighteen service dogs, one want to hear from you. assistance dogs with people who special skills dogs, and four autism • What brought you to Hearing and need them. That’s “140 dog years” assist dogs, giving their partners more Service Dogs? of creating lasting, life-giving independence, freedom and peace of • What do you like best about our relationships with our clients, sponsors, mind. Thank you! work? donors, veterinarians, breeders, animal • What is your favorite story? shelters, puppy raisers, foster homes, Can you imagine what will happen in • How has it touched your life or volunteers and you. the next 20 years?! the life of someone you know?

Can you imagine what has happened Looking back with you Send your story and pictures to Shelly in 20 years? As we are looking over our past 20 Hiemer at [email protected] or call While that might be hard to years, we thankfully remember the her at 612-729-5986 ext. 115. These imagine, envision 20 times these gifts each person has brought to us. special tales will be compiled into a accomplishments of 2008: The energy, ideas, time, laughter, book that will grow throughout 2009 • 121 dogs entered the program dedication and generosity have been and be on display at our offices and with 74 puppy and foster care beyond anything we could have at anniversary events throughout the homes imagined in 1989 when our first year!Y • 394 volunteers provided 119,315 Hearing Dog, “Annie”, completed hours of valuable assistance training. • 27 teams graduated

2 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 3 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things A Calming Influence Alex Cracraft and Windy by Julianne Larsen The Cracraft family of Fridley, Minn., Lora and Rich have gotten accustomed had never really given any thought to to being noticed when in public since adding a dog to the family. That is until Windy joined their family. Some people Rich and Lora attended a class at the have questions and others just admire Autism Society of Minnesota in 2007 Windy from afar. They have even run about Service Dogs for children with into a few people that didn’t know autism. Rich had a dog as a young about autism. That surprised Lora at child but Lora had never had a pet (fish first but, when she thought back to don’t really count). However, after what life was like before Alex was much thought and discussion, they both diagnosed, she realized she may have agreed that a dog might be a positive once been in the same place. step for their son, Alex. Slowly but surely Windy and Alex are Alex has autism, and like many children forming a bond that will take them far. on the autism spectrum, he has very The Cracraft family are truly grateful to high anxiety. Lora was really hoping everyone that has made it possible for that having a dog by his side would the opportunity to have Windy join their help alleviate some of Alex’s anxiety. Alex and Windy family.Y Lora admits she was also hoping a dog would help ease the anxiety of Windy’s first weekend in the Cracraft For information on helping to make her husband, Rich, who is also on the home was a bit stressful for the boys, other autism placements possible for autism spectrum. Could a dog provide a but Lora immediately felt that she had those who are waiting, please contact calming influence for the whole family? some help and support. Windy just Janet Cobus at 612-729-5986 ext, 153. gave her a look that told her she wasn’t THOSE WHO MADE THIS After completing the application alone—Windy was there for her too. PLACEMENT POSSIBLE process they began to wait for a Dog Source dog. In July of 2008 the family was Since that first weekend, the family Charlene and Jerome Moser matched with Windy, a yellow Labrador has come a very long way. Windy went Charm Labradors Retriever. Windy’s introduction to the from sleeping in a dog crate to sharing family was a gradual process. Alex Alex’s bed and joining him on the Veterinary Services and his little brother, Taylor, had never couch. Lora and Rich are hoping that Inver Grove Heights Animal really been around dogs and with the Windy will soon be attending school Hospital high anxiety level it was important that with Alex to help ease his anxiety Foster Home the transition of a dog into the home be during the day and to help make Al Peters & Penny Marsala as easy as possible. transitions easier. The Turner Family

There When I Need Him Wanda Viellieux and Redford by Shelley Frederickson Wanda Viellieux of New Richmond, accepted into the program, Wanda was Wis., has a long history of dog paired with Redford, a 15-month-old ownership and obedience training. Golden Retriever. In fact, she trained Flash, a Golden Retriever, to assist her with tasks made Although Wanda says she was more difficult by the fibromyalgia she’s apprehensive about getting attached to had since age 19. When Flash passed another dog, she knew that she needed away in March 2008, Wanda thought help to live the active lifestyle she that a smaller dog might fit her needs, cherished. Her fears quickly vanished but she quickly found that bending the moment she met Redford. Redford down to care for a small dog was too apparently felt right at home with difficult. She decided that instead of Wanda, too. With the assistance of trying to again train a dog on her own, field trainer Kathy Derrick, the pair she wanted the assistance and expertise began learning the skills they’d need she would receive from an organization to work together as a team. “At first, I that specialized in training Service was pretty nervous and was concerned Dogs. Wanda says she was thrilled about whether I’d be able to effectively when she discovered that Hearing and use the techniques we learned,” Wanda Service Dogs of Minnesota served Wanda and Redford her area. Three months after being (continued on page 5)

4 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 5 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things

The Legacy Club - A Final Act of Kindness Remembering Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota in a will or trust is an act of thoughtful generosity while living, and assures one of the last acts of kindness that can be achieved before death. The Legacy Club is our way to honor those individuals who, while living, inform us of their intentions to include us in their will or other planned giving device. We also recognize the generous donors who have passed on and already made bequests to further our work at Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. Deceased members are followed by the designation (D). Members of the Legacy Club at the end of 2008 are as follows: Anonymous (3) Ann Harhai (D) Osborn Lang Trust (D) Anonymous (D) Janet Holcomb Mary & Guy Roemhildt M.E. Bergdahl Dorothy Holden Scott Sandison Eunice Bren (D) Lion Dean Julifs (D) Sandra Simonson Neil Bright Kathleen Kaiser Mark & Amy Sperry Judy Couden Steven Kleinnmen Estate Trust (D) Margaret Syring (D) Melinda Cress Lee Laurisch Sandra Wasserman Bill & Janet Dubats Sandy Lenarz Claralouise Wheeler Eleanor S. Fenton (D) M. Longley John & Susan Williams Esther Graney Liz Lucast Kathy and Roger Wright Mary Jane Hankee (D) Brian & Ann Marie McCann Alice Ziittel Please consider joining these special individuals. Contact Alan Peters at 612-729-5986 ext.116 for more information. Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota will list the members of The Legacy Club in each Winter issue of Tails From Minnesota. We are very grateful for your generosity and your faith in us.Y

Hearing and Service Dogs in the News! by Shelly Hiemer The fourth quarter of 2008 was community, including donations We just learned that the National an exciting one for Hearing and of an enclosed trailer and an open Enquirer is featuring Autism Service Dogs of Minnesota. Our trailer, offers to loan trailers to us, Assist team Finn Golden and graduate teams were featured in 12 and some wonderful cash donations. his dog, Traeh, in the Acts of articles published in community. People are so generous! Kindness column on page 59 of the Many of the articles included color February 9, 2009 issue. This is our photos or were on the front page! Jack, also known as Dr. Dog, the first publicity in an international facility-based Service Dog at Mayo publication! Our sad news—the theft of our Clinic, and his partner, Marcia utility trailer from our parking Fritzmeier, were featured in the Thank you to all who helped lot—resulted in stories by WCCO Rochester paper, in the Mayo Clinic us spread the good news about TV(Channel 4) and KSTP paper, and on Animal Planet’s Dog Hearing and Service Dogs of TV(Channel 5). We received 101 TV program. Minnesota! Y a generous response from the Wanda Viellieux and Redford (continued from page 4) because I’m not struggling so much, just as good as the last.”Y my muscles do not get as fatigued. I recalls. “But as Redford and I bonded, feel so much more secure knowing that To make more dogs like Redford Redford is there when I need him,” she available for people on our waiting I gained self-confidence and knew that says. we could do it.” list, please visit www.hsdm.org or Wanda says that, in addition to helping send a contribution in the return Besides learning to pick up items her physically, Redford has helped envelope attached between pages for Wanda, Redford learned how her emotionally. “Redford takes the 6 and 7. Thank you! to serve as a brace when she needs focus off the chronic pain I deal with THOSE WHO MADE THIS assistance getting out of bed or when and makes day-to-day living so much PLACEMENT POSSIBLE she’s rising from the floor or a chair. easier,” she remarks. Redford also carries a backpack that Veterinary Services contains identification and emergency When asked what she would say to Life Care Animal Hospital information for both Wanda and anyone looking into getting a Service Puppy Raisers Redford. Wanda says that, although Dog, Wanda enthusiastically says, “It Dianne and Doug Astry she greatly appreciates all of his skills, is so worthwhile. Life will be so much having Redford by her side when she’s better with a Service Dog than without. Field Trainer walking has made the most difference. And if you’ve had a Service Dog that Kathy Derrick “Redford helps me balance and, you’ve lost, the next experience will be 4 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 5 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things CONTRIBUTORS Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota is supported by many agencies, companies, and individuals. A very special thanks to you all! The following contributions were received in our office by December 31, 2008. Contributions received by March 31, 2009 will be included in the Spring 2009 issue of Tails From Minnesota. $5,000 or more $100 to $499 American Enterprise Investment Services - Anonymous Phyllis Aamodt Mary Beth Crowley Marilyn & Malcolm Catherine & Michael Dora & Howard Schroeder BankFirst Scott & Cynthia Adams Cuyuna Range Lions Hoeck Neal McGowan Jennifer, Darren & Sam Bruce and Deb Thomas Foundation Nancy & Tom Adelman Dalton Lions Jeffrey & Mary Stoner Judith McGregor Schuler Delonais Foundation Aitkin Riverboat Lions Michael & Nancy Dardis Holcomb Ann & Charles Joan Sedlacek Eleanor S. Fenton Living Trust Mark Albert Jan and John Day Barbara Hollar McKinistry-Luepke Celia & James Shapland Alexandria Lions Deerwood Lakes Lions Norma Hovden Barbara McQuillan Lori Shinnick The Harmon Foundation, Inc. Paula Allan James Dorsey I.C. System Inc. Rhonda Mecl Robert Slifer Steven Leuthold Family Foundation David Allen Diane Driver Phyllis Jacobs Gordon & Kay Meier Tonya Spanier The Casey Albert T O’Neil Foundation Alliance Car Rental Eagan Lions JJ Taylor Distributing Sandra & Richard Joan Speers Stephen & Jayne Usery Thomas Anderson Eagan Rotary Foundation Barbara Johnson Meuwissen St James Lions Barbara & Merrill Asbury - William L. Scott T.L. Johnson Julie Miller St Joseph Lions WCA Foundation Ashby Lions Norman Eck Hazel Johnson Miltona Lions James & Christie Askov Area Lions Marjory Efteland Cindy Johnson Minnesota Bolt & Nut Co Steckelberg Backus Lions Elizabeth Lions Joseph Jolton Minnetonka South Lions Julie & Alex Stolis $2,500 to $4,999 Marian & Ayers Bagley Era Muske Co. Community Juergens Dent Kraft Deb Molin Strehlow Family Fund Battle Lakes Lions Support Foundation Natalie Kadievitch Montevideo Lions of The Minneapolis Susan Allen Bay Lake Area Lions Kara & Grant Fairbairn Donald & Arnita Karnuth Linda & Doug Mosier Foundation Ameriprise Financial Greg & Amanda Beale Fairmont Lions Bruce & Deborah Kierstead New York Mills Lions Sturgeon Lake Lions Duluth-Superior Community Foundation - G. Kendall Linda & Andrew Becher Thomas & Gloria Farquer Leo Kiffmeyer Michael E. Nielsen Suburban Chevrolet Smith Fund for the Physically Disabled Jon & Metta Belisle Sandra & Russel Felta Paul Kiffmeyer Kevin Nikodym Wendy Swanson Rita & John Best Denise Fenton Thomas & Jean King Nisswa Lions Debra Tegels H. William Lurton Foundation Billy’s Fergus Falls Sertoma Kingston Lions Charles & Carolyn Novotny The Prudential Foundation Barbara & David Koch Bloomington Obedience Finlayson Giese Lions Damon & Cynthia Kocina Bruce & Rose Ogrodnik Tower-Soudan Lions Kopp Family Foundation Training Club, Inc. Rhonda Foley - Strategic Graphics, Inc. Marjorie Okerstrom Dianne & Michael Trdan Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Bluffton Lions N.L. Fulton David Kostek Jim & Carol Olson Thomas Turner Susan Bonne Gary Lions Martin & June Kroening Osage Lions Twin Cities Airport Lions Northern Lights Combined Federal Campaign Mike Branch Gateway Lions MarySue Krueger Nancy & Jeff Parker Underwood Area Lions James Svobodny Neil Bright Terry Geffre Sharon Krumme Jenny Parker UnitedHealth Group United Way Brooklyn Center Lioness Glenwood Lions Lake Country Lions Parkers Prairie Lions Margaret & Peter Van Erp Joan Brown Jennifer Grossman Huber Lake Superior CFC John Parzych Vergas Lions Doris & Rex Brown - The Pet Crew Lakers Lions Perham Lakes Lions Verndale Lions Lisa Bugman Mark Hammel Pam & Brian Larson Jean Peterson Leslie Vissage $1,000 to $2,499 Bernie & Roy Burt Steve Handlos Leader Lions Sandra & Gary Pietig Walker Lions Baxter Lions North Dakota County Chapter Patricia Callaghan Rebecca Hansen & Ralph David Lee James & Kimberly Post Michael Walsh Central Minneapolis Thrivent of Thrivent Financial for Callaway Lions Westcott Leffert, Jay & Polglaze, PA Precision Wheel Service Len & Nanette Washko Financial for Lutherans Lutherans Betsy Carlson Jerome Hanson Lino Lakes Lions Cathy Quady Watson Lions Clear Lake Lions SW Hennepin County Chapter Dawn & Gary Carlson Kim Hanson Lions Club Howard Lake Chad Quigley Ralph & Dotti of Thrivent Financial for Rodney Carter Ronnie Hartman Activities Mary Quist Weichselbaum Cormorant Lions Kathleen Kaiser Centennial Dr Daniel C. Hartnett Litchfield Lions Cynthia Raub Whitefish Area Crosslake- Crosslake-Ideal Lions Lutherans Elementary School Family Foundation Lowry Lions Richmond Lions Ideal Lions Fargo Moorhead CFC Kathrynn Patton Clarissa Lions Steven Hayden Janis Lysen Rockford Lions Wildwood Lions Mr. & Mrs. Michael Albert & Deborah Roberge Janet Cobus Hector Lions Allan & Jewell Malerich Vicki Roe Michelle Wilson Chorley & Cindy Rylaur Consulting LLC Julius Coffman Robin & James Henrichsen Elaine Mally Julie Rumreich Jean Wilson Mernick - James Greg & Cathy Stevens Eleanor Cook Cynthia & Francis Herman Carey & Sandi Manson Shirley & Santo Russo Wolf Lake Lions William Voedisch & Laurie Coon Rapids Lions Hewitt Lions Marshall BankFirst Curtis & Megan Ruwe Judy & Michael Wright Talcott Fund Karen Cowan Joseph & Judith Hickey Thomas & Lisa Maslowski Sandstone Quarry Lions Terese & Scott Wykle Jewish Federation of Carlson Elizabeth Cowie Hinckley Lions Ed Matthews John Sawyer Alice Ziittel Metropolitan Chicago Wal-Mart Foundation Ruth & Ed Hocke Mark Matzke Marcia Scheele Steven Kittay Jean West Kate McCormick Kevin Scherber Claralouise Wheeler Volunteers $500 to $999 Diana Adamson Lisa Cook & family Kathy Heinkel Kim Medin TJ Sheldon Jennifer Alexander Emily & Sarah Cox Shelly Hiemer Bev & Dick Mensing Laura Shirley Assistance Dog United Betty & Boyd Mast Jayson & Kathryn & Mason Peter Hilger Tony Mikols Dave & Marge Skeie Campaign Brian McDonough Alexander Lora Cracraft Lindsay Hjerpe Kim Motzko Jonathan Sogin Collision Center Inc. McGregor Lions Mary Alexander Caylin Crawford Hannah Holicky & family Lori & Melissa Neeb Amy & Mark Sperry Richard & Maggie James McLaughlin Kristin & Eric Alman Sue Crone Jon Holland Cathy Newville Melissa Stam Cress Merril Lynch Ali Anderson Forrest Dahl Kristen Howe Nancy Ninteman Sharon Steinbrecher Ian Drummond - Marina Morris Annmarie Anderson Jan & John Day Sue James Betty Otto Ken & Judy Stenzel Corcoran Pet Care Center North Star Chapter Dianne Astry Bev DeChon Kristin Johnson Janice Parrow & Calvin Stanley Durda I.T.P.A. Chad & Leah Bauer Elizabeth Eagle Ruth Johnson Laska Parrow Greg & Cat Stevens Charlotte Gelfand Doug & Carol Ogren Jamie Becker Finn Laurie & Ron Ehlert Peter Kelley John Parzych John Stockman H.B. Fuller Community Richard Pike Bob & Mary Branham Lia Enger Bill Kemptom Jill Payne Alex & Julie Stolis Sara Braziller Sandy & Jeff Essen & Lisa Knazan Alan Peters Students at Minnehaha Affairs Philip Reilly Dave & Susan Bristol family Joy & Dave Kraft Sandy Pidde Academy Peter and Rebecca Jim & Kathy Schumacher Julia Buege Freeman Jean Euteneuer & Lexie Mcihelle Krasicki Aune Maureen & Paul Becky Thomas Hilger Tom Struve & Shannon Jean & Don Burdeski Kara & Grant Fairbairn MarySue & Mark Pranghofer & Ally Karin Tosten Honeywell Hometown Tyree Deb Burke Owens Mike Ferber Krueger Nicole Preste Brian & Dawn Turner Solutions Wells Fargo Community & Pepsi Stacey Ferguson Karen Lampi Mary Quist Shannon Tyree Jackson Lions Support Randy Burrows Duane Finger Greg Lawson & Oreo DJ Robbins Stephen Usery Kevin Johnson Doreen & Jeff West Jennifer Burt Leslie Flowers Jodi LeBaron Colleen Rod Patty VanLandschoot James & Mary Jost Wood City Ramblers Tena Caouette Betty & Charles Gettler Dena & John Lenneman Fiona Roessler Carlos Villalpando Mark Kenyon Deborah, Neal & Nancy Carlson Marcia Gilman Frank Loken Sharon Russell Leslie Vissage Mapleton Sertoma Lions Jeremiah Wunderlich Sue & Rod Carter Chris Golden Raeyna Longtin Gina Schaal Len Washko Shannon Chambers Becky Groseth Liz Lucast Dora Schroeder Kristen Wedul & family Lou & Vicki Nancy Haley Stephanie Magelky & Jeff Kay Schroven Teri & Ciarra Willms Chouinard Jeanne Hanson Joe Mahon Laure Schwartz Patty Wirz Workplace Giving Jan & Mike Deb Harms Penny Marsala Darryl & Diane Scott Mackenzie Young Christensen DeeDee & Pat Heffernan Rachel Mathre Seth & Stephanie Scott Allan & Polly Zabel Anonymous Tracy Landowski Lisa Coleman & family Scott McClure Mary Sears & Indie Sara Aaserud Lelland Karen Blackstone James Langner Lisa Boomgaarden Jane Lehar Puppyraisers Jay M. Bozicevich Becky Lyon Elizabeth Brietkrietz- Judith Messner The Abrahamson family...... Capri Christina Giese & Erica Miller...... Lily Anna & Ramsey Peterson...... Brody Miller Linda Mosier Diana Adamson & Paul Oberhaus...... Baker The Grabou family...... Drake Shirley & Santo Russo...... Dolly & Juno Amanda Burrows Elizabeth Otto The Alexander family...... Eli The Grout family...... Summer Dora & Howard Schroeder...... Gander Laura Campbell Lisa Marie Pasquale Jayson & Kathryn Alexander...... Jenniefer Halverson...... Gemini The Schwartz family...... Rose Kathleen Carlson Carol Pawlicki ...... Hailey & Quincy The Heffernan family...... Griffon & Tagg The Scott family...... Yukon Zenobia L. Carlton Trevor Porath Dianne & Doug Astry...... Portia Stephanie Helgerson...... Amos Stephanie & Seth Scott...... Delta Capri Chelgren Cory Roach Bill Beddie & Kathy Grant...... Guido The Herberg Family...... Chester The Sears family...... Elmer Vicki J. Chouinard Tam Strand Mary Bente...... Yogi The Irwin family...... Izzy Dave & Marge Skeie...... Wanda Charles Crone Dawn Strubel Jennifer Berube...... Vern Kim Kriesel...... Daisy & Violet Melissa Sorenson...... Jasper Jennifer Estes Margaret Susag Meg Brudney...... Honey Dena & John Lenneman...... Blue Allie Thomson...... Will Rhonda Foley Michael Swanson Laurie Carlson...... Skip Paul Mazur...... Dixie Luanne Thorsvig...... Midas Nora Hartman Michael Sweeney Caylin Crawford...... Brewster The McCloskey Henry family...... Ebony Kevin & Sandy Vance...... Nigel John Hodenfield Steven Szurek Sue Crone...... Winnie The Morlock family...... Winston Alicia Williams & Keith Higgins...... Casper James Hovanetz Jr Sandra Lee Vance Michele Davidson...... Sampson Janie & Shauna Mullikin...... Fisher Monica Worts Cronk...... McPhee Lynne Hvidsten Brenda Vaughn Jan & John Day...... Louie Mary Nelson...... Waylon Patty Van Landschoot...... Sammie Roselyn Kabes Billie Jo Wallraff Beth & Donald Detloff...... Seymour Michelle & Shay Nelson...... Weaver The Willms family...... Zoe Nancy Karth David Welper The Ehlert family...... Brinks Mary & Kirk Nesvig...... Waldo The Young family...... Lars Dawn Kessler Karon K. Wendt Mike Ferber & Betty Otto...... Teddy Cathy & Jim Newville...... Lucy The Zwack family...... Wilma Jeanne LaBelle Leslie Flowers & Scott McClure...... Viggo Laska Parrow...... Rodney

6 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 7 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things up to $100 Mary Adams Lou & Vicki Chouinard Veterinary Clinic Roger Jensen Lucan Lions Fiona & Ravi Pradhan Adam Sparrow Susan Adams JoAnn Christensen Molly Fliearman Swenson Jerielyn Lavonne Ludke Heidi Price Susan Spence ADC Foundation Church of St Albert the Great Lynn Ford Marsha Johnson Dr. Grindle-Lyndale Animal Bonnie & Donald Quigley Amy & Mark Sperry Carolyn Allen Carol Clark Rebecca Forman Margaret & John Johnson Hospital Paul & Joyce Ramsay Dee Spilleth Allan & Virginia Amis LaDonna Cleveland Renee Forst Cathy & William Johnson Julie Lyons Patti Rathbun St August Post No. 621 Carol Anderson Cynthia Cluka Sandra Fuller Richard & Corrine Johnson Kirk Mahle Raymond Lions Legion Karla Anderson Judith Coffman Kathleen Galiger Donna Johnson Laurence Margolis Deborah & Thomas Reese St Augusta Lions Holly Anderson Cold Spring Home Pride Lions Katie & Owen Galloway Ruth Johnson Penny Marsala Dick & Lynn Rew St Martin Lions Mary Anderson Cold Spring Lions Jayne Gardner Elizabeth & Peter Johnson Brea Marsh Mary Rhatigan Julie Stanford Donna Applebaum Karen & Robert Colin Garrison Lions David Johnson Robert Massey Susan Rheingans Teresa Stanley Frank Arellono Comfrey Lions Club Sue Ann & Gary Garvis Patricia Johnson-Doss Rachel & Chloe Mathre Katherine Riggot Elizabeth Staples Ed Arnold Community Shares of Gina Geffre Glenn & Meredith Joly Leslie Matton-Flynn Rockville Lions Kathleen Stark Dianne Astry Minnesota - Thomson West Judith & Steven Gelderman Jennifer Jost Lawrence & Joanne May Martha Rohrbacher Kory Steil Jeff & Cheryl Avelsgard C. Lynn & Gerald Cox Bonnie Genin Ruth Katz Mark McLaughlin Deborah Root Pamela & Merle Steward William Axness Karen A. Cox Paul and Mika Gens Rachel Kaul Walter & Nancy Meadley Royalton Lions Anita Stockton Jeanette Bach Richard & Lora Cracraft Casey Gerach Mary Kelley Cecilia Meier Sauk Rapids Lions Lucille Sukalo Rebecca Bagniewski Ouida Crozier Susan Gierke Margaret Kelly Rosemarie Merrigan C&J Savoren Lucille Sunderman Charles Ballentine Linda & Lyle Dallman Nancy Giving Ida Kirsner Richard & Diane Mester Gina Schaal Sunrise Lions Douglas Baum Barbara & Harold Danley Dee Gladish Paige & Jason Kite Rose Marie Meyer Jane Schamber Margaret Susag Bemidji First City Lions Danube Lions Debra Glassman Sue & Lyle Klaassen Allen Mickelson Eugene Scheefler Joanne Susag Laurie & Gary Bengtson Jackie Davison Ann Goerdt Sylvia Knazan Suzanne Miedema Paul Schoen Robert & Michelle Swiller Teri Bentson Donna & Phil Dean Jacqueline Gohdes Patricia Knox Patricia Miller Mary Schroeder Bruce & Nancy Thorson M.E. Bergdahl Lisa & Mitchell Demarais Melvin Goldenbogen Sandy Koch Lisa Miller Barbara Schuette Leslie & Darrell Tilleskjor Andrea Berger Steven Despiegelaere Lisa Goodman Stephen Kodluboy Andriette & Keith Mortimore R.G. Schulke Joan Tischer Carl & Madeline Blegen Mary Jo Dircks Lisa Graney Kim Kolar Morton Lions Jill Schultz Michelle Torborg Emily J. Boler Denise Dobrzenski Rebecca Greenwald Keith Kolle Diane Nagel Carolyn Schurr Underwood Lioness Sue Bolin Patricia Donaldson Susanne Gustafson Oksana Konopatski Doug & Shirley Nash Judy & John Schwab Tina Uppel Marilyn Booth Kent & Wendy Dorholt Nancy Hackett Coralee & James Krueger Lynette Nelson Alice Schweiss Jennifer Van Ert Nan Booth Kathleen & Steven Dougherty Darla Haines Marc Kruger William Nelson Amy Score Virginia Vara Mary Louise H. Bowen Lois M. Ebnet Anthony & Louise Halek Nancy & Sagar Krupa Karen Nelson Linda Scott Verndale Lioness Club Bruce Braaten Serine Ege Mitch & Susan Haley Jolene & Jeffrey Kuball Kathryn & Christopher Nelson Linda & Bruce Selchow Kathy Vogel Dr. Gary Lippo Brainerd Marie Ehrenberg Hamburg Lions Virginia Kukkola Barbara Nichols Sertoma 1200 Club of James & Janet Vroman Animal Hospital Jessica Elfering Lynnette Hansen James & Margery Kupiecki Karol Nielson Rochester Mario Wach Jane & Larry Brandenburger Cate Elsten Clarence Hansen Susan Kyser Gabrielson Nightshadow TJ Sheldon Wachovia Foundation Carol Brant Sally Erickson Cheri Hanson Gary & Carla Lagerstedt Nimrod Area Lions Ann Shepard Matching Gifts Rose Mary & Alex Brietkrietz Lorene Ericson Bobbi Harding Lake Park Lions Greg & Lorna Niska Mariana & Craig Shulstad Angela Wagamon Autumn Brodhecker John Evertz Hector Lioness LandAmerica Foundation Gretajo Northrop Jodi Simma Eleanor Wagner Patricia and Richard Brown Fairfax Lioness Julie Heise Laporte-Benedict Lions Patricia & William O’Connor Tanya Simmer Jim & Bonnie Walters David & Patti Bruflodt Jean Falkavage Hewitt Lioness Kay Laursen Susan Olsson Maryanne & Gregory Gersch Hope Marie Wedge Bill Brust Farming Lions Jeffrey Hinnenkamp Martin Lavelle Cheryl Osborne Simonitsch Rosalee & Maynard Wedul Delores & Richard Buege Patricia Faustgen Holdingford Lions Joyce Lee Roxanne & John Ostendorf Jacqueline Singer Daniel Westberg Buffalo Lioness Daniel & Janet Feeney Kimberly & Steven Horne Carol Leinonen Palisade Area Lions Sharon Singleton Jacquelyn Wetterling Leslie Butler Karen Feller Kathryn Hoy Sandra Lee Lenarz Narrah Palmquist Stanley & Sarah Siu Holly Weum Butterfield Lions Grace Fenne Jane Hoyt Helen Leqve Pelican Rapids Lions Darroll & Marie Skilling Vivienne Whitfield Campbell Lions Thomas & Linda Ferber Mary & Allan Hunt Brian & Carrie Levendowski Christine Peters Thomas & Beth Skradski Melissa & Chris Wiezorek Caring Rivers United Way Fergus Falls Daybreakers Roxanne Hutar Sherri & Daniel Leverty Sandy & Jon Pidde Steven & Sherry Sletten Rosemary Wiley Donor Designated Funds Lions Margaret Imdieke Cross Barbara & Carl Liedman Bernadette Piotrowski Susan Smedberg David E. Willhelm Kay Carlson Beth Filek Mary Jackson Lincoln Scandia Valley Lions Jill or Timothy Poirier Bruce & Laura Smith John & Susan Williams Nancy & James Carlson Janet Finstad Mel & Gwen Jacobson Lions International Alex Porter Allen M. Smith John Bell Wilson Lois Carlson Britt Finstad Hogan Susan Januschka Dennis Litfin Matt Porter Mike Smith Gary Wisner Cass Lake Lions Barbara Firth Jen Jasicki Barbara Loch Laabs Diane Potts Barbara Solberg Howard Wittels Macrina Cassidy Laura Fisher Denice Jasper Judy & Frank Loken Gloria Potz Clare Sorman Michael Wojcik Karen Cheesebrough Robin Fisher - Vermilion Alve Jemturd Lonsdale Lions Virginia Power Leota Spalla Mary M. Wojikc Memorials Donated by...... In Memory of Donated by...... In Memory of Donated by...... In Memory of Paula Allan...... “Zephyr” & “Cooper” Kim Hanson...... Kent Hoerdt Dick & Lynn Rew..... “Emmet” trained by Pete & Carina Markham Barbara & Merrill Asbury...... “Bailey” the Cocker Spaniel Bobbi Harding...... Steven Best Martha Rohrbacher...... Jo Shabatura Jeff & Cheryl Avelsgard...... Brianna Stottrup Honeywell Hometown Solutions...... “Beau” Martha Rohrbacher...... Thea Harlans Nakashin Linda & Andrew Becher...... “Goldie” Susan Januschka...... “Ben” Sandstone Quarry Lions...... Steve Best M.E. Bergdahl...... Maria & Annamaria Nyman Donna Johnson...... “Edgar” Eugene Scheefler Tracey Racette & “Trogen” Rita & John Best...... Steven Best Patricia Knox...... “Lily” Dora & Howard Schroeder...... “Ray Ray” Janet Cobus...... “Brandy” David Kostek...... “Bernie” Amy Score...... Adella Krech Eleanor Cook...... “Dear Buddy” Frank & Judy Loken...... Steve Best Maryanne & Gregory Gersch Simonitsch...... “Malibu” Mary Beth Crowley...... “Tuffy”, “Beignet” & “Taco” Lavonne Ludke...... “Mandy” Jacqueline Singer...... Donna & Phil Dean...... Audrey Barrette who loved all dogs Rhonda Mecl...... “Tess” ...... Barb & Laverne Dunsmore’s beloved dog, “Poppy” Mary Jo Dircks...... Tammy Faye Barker Gordon & Kay Meier...... Gregory John Meier Dee Spilleth...... “Arthur” Sally Erickson...... Richard C. Erickson Julie Miller...... “Omar” Kathleen Stark...... Rebecca Stark Denise Fenton...... “Fuji” Deb Molin...... “Taya”, “Cozmo” and “Gaylee” Anita Stockton...... “Jack” Lynn Ford...... “Hazel”, “Jasper” and “Dottie” Marina Morris...... “Sunshine” & “Diamond” Debra Tegels...... Gary Penman Bonnie L. Genin...... Marrian Holmberg Andriette & Keith Mortimore...... “Dusty” Bruce & Nancy Thorson...... “L.A.” Lisa Graney...... Patsy Cline Barbara Nichols...... “Buddy” Michael Walsh...... “Polly” Nancy Hackett...... “Buddy” Nichols Heidi Price...... “Trinka” Rosemary Wiley...... Jean Tifft Lynnette Hansen...... “Little Annie” Bonnie & Donald Quigley...... “Dakota” Howard Wittels...... “Rainbow” Cheri Hanson...... “Fletcher” Deborah & Thomas Reese...... “Pepper” & “Simon” Alice Ziittel...... Barbara Van Dyke In Kind Honorariums Donated by...... In Honor of Donated by...... In Honor of Jennifer Anderson Hospital Kim Rheaume Susan Adams...... Lawrence & Joanne May...... Gretchen Anderson Dianne Hennes Dr. Peggy Root- ...... Katie Nelson & Jackie & Karsten for Christmas ...... Grandaughter Alyson and “Stewart” Nathan Berndt Pat Hughes Kustritz Teri Bentson...... Artis Jule Rothholz Curiskis Kate McCormick...... “Gander” and Dora Schroeder Boysen Animal Inver Grove Carie Seele Andrea Berger...... “Ally” Cathy McGowan...... Mr. Monte Hospital Heights Animal Roger & Michelle Bluffton Lions...... Peter Van Erp Andriette & Keith Mortimore...... “Babe” Sara Braziller Hospital Sievers Marilyn Booth...... Diane Astry’s Birthday Lina & Doug Mosier...... “Ivan” the Terrific Laurie Bromwich Sue Kilchenman - Sharon Singleton Mike Branch...... Laura & Sarah Doug & Shirley Nash...... Dr. Melissa Carr BCT Minneapolis Smith Vet Hospital Dawn & Gary Carlson...... Mary Bente ...... “Odie”, “Gibson”, Dave and Marge Skeie Cascade Animal Dr. Gia Klauss South Shore Vet Rodney Carter...... Sue Carter’s Birthday Gretajo Northrop...... “Wyatt” Center Al Kugler - Costco Hospital LaDonna Cleveland...... Jeff Cleveland Doug & Carol Ogren...... Ogren Dick Cottrell Lakeway Corgi’s Dr. Jason Squibb Judith Coffman...... “Archie” Narrah Palmquist...... James M. Palmquist - Compensation Kay Laursen Dr. Christopher Barbara & Harold Danley...... Sue Casterin’s 50th Birthday Christine Peters...... Al Peter’s Birthday Design Services Kathy Lav Stauthammer Eagan Rotary Foundation - ...... William Lee Scott Matt Porter...... Mike Ferber Deb Cox Dr. Steve Levine Paul Tate Thomas & Linda Ferber...... Mike Ferber Alex Porter...... Mike Ferber Maggie Cress Linda Livingston- The Kyjen Molly Fliearman...... Ben Fliearman Fiona & Ravi Pradhan...... Amy Pakhomov Cross Creek Kennel Weid Company Nancy Giving...... Maureen Pranghofer Cynthia Raub...... Deb Molin Betty Culver Julie Mach Third Avenue Pet Debra Glassman...... Artis Curiskis’ Bar Mitzvah Philip Reilly...... Jan Day Maryland Ave Pet Hospital Cynthia & Francis Herman...... Les, Melissa, & Nathanial ...... Phoebe Fenske, in honor of a mother who Dr. Dan Feeney Hospital Dr. Anthony Tobias First National Dr. Chas McBrien Dr. Nicole Tumble ...... Thiery, Dr. Pete, Jessica, Kate & Lexi Aiello, Brad & Becky ...... loves dogs for her Birthday! Building Holding Kevin McDonald Sherri Ullrich Mauck, Tim, Tabitha, Paige & Jake Rabenberg, Toby, Jamie ... & John Sawyer...... Siever’s Kennels - Gary & Gina Sievers Inc. Dr. Alistair McVey University of MN Stryker Mauck, Nancy Olson, Hayley, Brayden & Hunter ...... Gina Schaal...... Carter Schaal Donna & Mike Deb Molin VMC Hilton Jodi Simma...... Erica & Lisa Ranum’s Wedding Flanagan Mounds View Valley View Pet Marilyn & Malcolm Hoeck Neal...... Mike Smith...... “Trooper” and “Rose” Dr. Michelle France Animal Hospital Hospital ...... “King King”, “Lady”, “Zumba” & “Princess” Tonya Spanier...... “Phalen” Caroyln Fruin & Dr. Dennis Olivero VCA Cedar Pet Mel & Gwen Jacobson...... Anita Stockton...... Michael Stockton Mike Haughtaling Olympic Controls/ Clinic ...... AKC CH/ICH Trace of TTT’s Ransome MH Lucille Sukalo...... Dora Schroeder & “Honey” Chuck & Chris BookEndz Veterinary Surgical Margaret & John Johnson...... Superior Great “Laker” Joan Tischer...... Edie Wunderlich Grui Janice Parrow Specialists Sandra Lee Lenarz...... Karen Wolf...... Matthew Wick Happy Days Doggy Pauline Iverson Thomas Whisenand ...... Lloyd & Mary Ann Lenarz - Merry Christmas Lewis Wolf...... Matty Wick Camp Gretchen Pickeral Brian & Carrie Levendowski...... Terese & Scott Wykle...... “TJ”’s adoption Heartland Animal Pine Ridge Pet Care ...... Lisa Knazan & Dennis Levendowski Allan & Polly Zabel...... Kim Hyde Leslie Matton-Flynn...... Toni and “Reggie”

6 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 7 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by Janet Cobus February 7th - Pancake Breakfast 2009 Special Events Fundraising to Hearing and Service Dogs to benefit Hearing and Service Dogs Committee of Minnesota through our new at Applebee’s in Maple Grove We are beginning a new year and Automatic Donation Plan. Sign Enjoy a geat breakfast and help raise would love to have YOU! Join our up on www.hsdm.org, and we’ll funds for Hearing and Service Dogs committee or simply help with the automatically deduct your contribution of Minnesota. Tickets are $6.00 following Spring fundraising projects: from your checking or savings account and are only available in advance. Applebee’s Benefit Breakfast; Saint or bill your credit card in the amount Contact Jessica at 612-729-5986 Paul Saints Game Fundraiser; Name- and frequency of your choice. You can ext. 152 or [email protected] to A-Puppy school and corporate also call our office, and we’ll send you purchase a ticket. recruitment program; Dog Park a paper authorization form to return Saturday, February 7, 2009 Map, RenFest Volunteer recruitment with your instructions. 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., co-chair; Phon-a-thon volunteer Applebee’s recruitment and more. • Think about the long term and 14400 Weaver Lake Road, embark on a planned giving strategy. Maple Grove We meet on the second Monday of Planned gifts can lower your each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Hearing taxes, create a legacy, and ensure Minnesota Women of Today and Service Dogs of Minnesota that Hearing and Service Dogs of At at their November 2008 conference room. Feel free to call Minnesota receives funding for conference, Minnesota Women of Janet or attend any meeting to find decades to come. The options are Today members chose Hearing and out more! You can help raise enough numerous; there’s a suitable giving Service Dogs of Minnesota as their funds to meet our 2009 goal of plan for virtually everyone. You can next three-year Priority Project. This training and placing 30 new teams! read about a few common options at is a great honor and we look forward www.hsdm.org. to working with the organization’s Tails of Independence Fundraising project leader to raise funds and Luncheon –April 21, 2009 For more information or to create awareness about our services Our fifth annual fundraising event get involved with any of the throughout the state with the help of is a luncheon this year and will be items listed, please contact their members. held at Midland Hills Country Club in St. Paul. A committee is being Janet Cobus [email protected] formed to plan the event. We are or 612-729-5986 ext. 153 looking for help in the following areas: marketing, planning the theme, IRA ALERT recruiting Table Captains, and working The U.S. Senate has approved at the event. If you would like to broad tax legislation extending the serve as a Table Captain for this event IRA charitable rollover through filling a table of eight. December 21, 2009. The provision is retroactive, effective for distributions Make a New Year’s Resolution to made after December 31, 2007. To help Hearing and Service Dogs of learn more about this charitable giving Minnesota! option, please contact your financial • Provide a monthly contribution advisor. Y

From the Executive Director (continued from page 2) costs, but we also saw significant So instead of holding back, we are tinue to pursue our vision of a future increases in a number of areas. For attacking our mission with enthusiasm in which every person who needs and example, contributions from our holi- and confidence, knowing that your wants an assistance dog can have one. day mailing at the end of 2008 were support will follow our good work. up 32 percent over the same holiday During 2009 we will again increase Thank you for the ways you support letter sent in 2007. I am encouraged by the overall number of new assistance our work at Hearing and Service Dogs this year-end support from our valued dogs we place, this time to 30 teams, of Minnesota. Happy new year! Y individual supporters. and we will further increase the number of Autism Assist graduates to eight It might be logical to follow the crowd teams. by cutting staff or services now. However, demands for our services As you might guess, this projected are increasing. Waiting lists, especially growth will increase our budgeted for Autism Assist Dogs, are growing expenses for 2009, up 16 percent. I am significantly. depending on your help as we con-

8 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 9 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things Truly Golden Steve Sletten and Rhett by Amy Sper- Steve Sletten of Owatonna, Minn., Rhett gets on the bed in the morning was diagnosed in 1981 with mul- and licks his face for a few minutes tiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive before it’s time to get up; at the same neurological disease. Steve said his time, Tootie snoozes on Steve’s other symptoms really started to give him side. Their morning routine involves trouble two years later. Ten years ago, Steve and Rhett going out for coffee. he had to quit his job as a mechanic Rhett brings Steve’s coffee cup to the after working for the same company counter, someone fills it, and Rhett for more than 20 years. Now Steve brings it back to Steve’s table. It’s uses a motorized wheelchair, because a routine that Steve, Rhett and their his ability to use his legs and arms has friends all enjoy. Steve’s friends say lessened that they are amazed by what Rhett can do for Steve. Steve’s daughter heard about Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota when Steve expressed thanks to the donors, dog trainer Sheri Cassens spoke at her volunteers and staff of Hearing and 4-H meeting. When she told her dad Service Dogs of Minnesota. “Before about the organization, Steve started we had Rhett, our family never went his research right away. out to restaurants for dinner,” he says. “Now, with Rhett, we have the con- When Steve applied for a Service fidence to go out just about once a Dog with Hearing and Service Dogs week. I really want to thank Sheri for of Minnesota, he wrote, “I need help Steve and Rhett helping us with our training. That was during the day when my wife and a huge benefit for us.”Y daughter are at work and school. We help me out right away.” live on two acres, and I try to stay To make more dogs available for busy gardening and woodworking. Rhett’s retrieving skills truly are people like Steve, visit us at www. Having a Service Dog could help keep golden! He picks up items for Steve— hsdm.org. me independent during the day when including car keys, pieces of paper, THOSE WHO MADE THIS I’m alone.” and kitchen utensils. It is impressive to PLACEMENT POSSIBLE watch Rhett open the refrigerator door Steve was excited when he was and retrieve a water bottle for Steve. Veterinary Services Globe University-Woodbury matched with Rhett, an 18-month-old He even closes the door and brings Golden Retriever. Steve had a pet Steve a straw! Rhett likes his job and Puppy Raisers Golden Retriever in the past, and he has bonded with Steve, his family and Marge and Dave Skeie really liked the breed. “Rhett is a great their pet Newfoundland, Tootie. dog who has exceeded my expecta- Field Trainer tions,” Steve says. “He learned how to Steve says he gets a chuckle when Sheri Cassens

New Staff Member

Mary Budge joined Hearing and Cities area. When not working, Mary Service Dogs of Minnesota as Director volunteers at a number of nonprofit of Operations in September 2008. organizations in the Twin Cities and Mary comes to us with more than enjoys spending time in her backyard, 15 years of leadership experience in watching the birds and reading. building organizations, developing Of course, Mary enjoys spending management teams and significantly time with her very large, lazy, but improving operational performance. incredibly loving, yellow lab, Otto.Y As Director of Operations Mary is responsible for human resources, finance, information technology, marketing and communications, and volunteer management.

A lifelong Minnesota resident, Mary and her husband Stephen currently live in North Oaks and have three grown daughters who live in the Twin Mary and Otto Our 20th Anniversary!

8 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 9 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things Marley and Me Cindy Murphy and Marley by Cindy Murphy 2007 marked a significant change in If you know someone who is disabled, my life. Before February, I had a full- please encourage them to contact Hear- time job, was active and was busy with ing and Service Dogs of Minnesota. my family. Then, a spinal infection left I had doubts that I was not “disabled me with limited mobility and many enough” to need a service dog, and I balance issues. I was unable to get out thought someone else would need one much, and I spent a lot of time in bed more, but Marley has really made a due to nerve pain. When I did go out, difference in the way I live my life. I I was very fearful. Going from being say GO FOR IT! an able-bodied person to being disabled is really scary. It’s not like I am grateful for Marley’s puppy rais- you can run away if you are in danger. ers and the trainers who touched his During rehabilitation at Courage life before me. I hope they know how Center, I met several service and important they are. To the support- therapy dogs and was impressed ers of Hearing and Service Dogs of with how they helped people. Minnesota, I say thank you. You make a difference--not only in my life, but That spring, I attended a pancake in the lives of everyone Marley and I breakfast, where I talked to a member interact with.Y of the Spring Lake Park Lions. He Would you like to help provide more gave me information about Hearing Cindy and Marley dogs like Marley? Call Janet Cobus and Service Dogs of Minnesota, and I at 612-729-5986 ext. 153 to learn how. applied the very next day! I found the vulnerable when I go out in public application process very easy and was alone. Above all, he is my companion THOSE WHO MADE THIS soon matched with a yellow Labrador 24/7. PLACEMENT POSSIBLE Retriever named Marley. Dog Source Waiting to take him home was defi- Charlene and Jerome Moser nitely the hardest part of training. My We started training, and I discovered Veterinary Services that the training was not only for 15-year-old daughter, Delaney, had VCA Cedar Pet Clinic Marley, but for me as well. The best attended all the training sessions with part of training was finding out all the me, because I would not go out of the Puppy Raisers things that Marley could do to help house alone. Since I am unable to walk The Grabau Family Marley or clean up after him in the me. He can retrieve things I drop, open Foster Home handicap-accessible doors, and carry yard, Delaney volunteered to take on Inmates at Faribault my wallet and emergency information that responsibility. Delaney and Marley Correctional Facility in his backpack. He helps me feel less have a special bond of their own.

Volunteer Spotlight by Laurie Carlson Mary Alexander and her family of Mary and her daughter, Jennifer, first Roseville, Minn. have been long time became involved with helping at volunteers for Hearing and Service events and showed great enthusiasm Dogs of Minnesota. They started in in promoting the organization. The 2001 and have never slowed down. family then fostered puppies and adult The Alexander family includes; Jon, dogs; too many to count! They have Mary, Kathryn, Jayson, Chris and also raised several dogs from puppies Jennifer. to adulthood. Mary has been a great example to her Now that the kids are grown and children of how to give back to the out of the house, Mary has stayed community. She and at least one of busy continuing to puppy raise Eli, a her kids have always been involved Labrador, fostering other dogs, helping in events including volunteering at at events and dropping by the office to the Heel and Wheel dog walk. Jon assist with projects. Alexander, her husband, has also 1st row: Jennifer, Mary, Kathryn Oldest daughter, Kathryn, got helped in taking photographs at events 2nd row: Chris, Jon, Jayson Dogs are Eli and Quincy married several years ago, and she and taking care of the dogs. (continued on page 11)

10 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 11 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things A Part of the Family Lindsey Hjerpe and Rosco by Jessi Hiemer Lindsey Hjerpe of Bloomington, His presence is a comfort to Lindsey’s Minn., loves her independence. parents as well, because they know Although she lost her hearing as a their daughter is safe on her own with child, she has a life full of friends, Rosco by her side. laughter, and activity. Lindsey thanks all who helped Rosco After losing the childhood dog she join her family. She says, “He makes loved, Lindsey began to search for me happy. He knows when I’m upset a new companion. She discovered and is always there to comfort me the Hearing and Service Dogs of and make me laugh.” Rosco makes Minnesota Web site and realized Lindsey and her roommate feel safer a new dog could help alert her to and more independent. Rosco truly sounds around the house. After has become a part of the family—one applying, Lindsey was paired with Lindsey says she can’t imagine living Rosco, an 18-month-old Golden without.Y Retriever. Volunteering is critical to our work. Rosco was originally selected by Hearing and Service Dogs of We can’t continue this work without Minnesota to be a Service Dog. dedicated puppy raisers like Patty Van However, his talents were better Lindsey and Rosco Landschoot, who raised Rosco. Visit suited in serving as a Hearing Dog. our website at www.hsdm.org to learn Today, Lindsey says Rosco is an are a great team. Rosco goes to about the many ways you can help or integral part of her life. He wakes her work and school with Lindsey, call Laurie Carlson about volunteer up in the morning and alerts her to sleeping under the table and waiting opportunities at 612-729-5986 oven timers, smoke alarms, knocks to greet anyone who comes by. ext. 113. at the door, and other sounds she The pair even went to Deaf Culture might otherwise miss. If Lindsey isn’t Minnesota Camp, where Rosco around, Rosco carries out his duties quickly became the hit of the week. THOSE WHO MADE THIS with her roommate, Stacy, who is also He woke everyone up in the morning, PLACEMENT POSSIBLE deaf. When visiting Lindsey’s family, participated with Lindsey in activities Veterinary Services Rosco has even been known to wake throughout the week, and even Globe University-Woodbury up her brother if he sleeps through “starred” as a cow in the end-of- guests at the door! camp play. At her family’s Wisconsin Puppy Raiser cabin, Rosco loves to go fishing with Patty Van Landschoot Today, Lindsey says, she and Rosco Lindsey’s dad and play in the lake.

Volunteer Spotlight (continued from page 10) and husband, Jayson, began fostering What about you? dogs and puppy raising, too. She even Are you willing to give the gift of Lots of different areas to volunteer took over from Mary as chair of the time? We need help in the following your time and talents. registration committee for the Heel areas: • Special events fundraising and Wheel. • Puppy raisers (14 to 16 month committee – help think up new commitment) ideas for raising funds! We cannot thank Mary enough for all • Short-term dog foster home (2 to • Twenty year anniversary the years of faithful service and for 4 weeks) committee – help plan our big gala providing this level of volunteerism. • Breeder host family – dog lives this fall. with you while having puppies Needless to say, we send a huge thank for the organization; you get Contact Volunteer Coordinator, Laurie you to all the Alexanders for their to keep the dog after she is retired Carlson, for more details in volunteer enthusiasm, caring and hard work in opportunities at [email protected] or (approximately two to three years). Y helping us place assistance dogs with • Heel and Wheel committee – join 612-729-5986 ext. 113. those who need them.Y us in planning this popular event. Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota 2007 Annual Report Available now at www.hsdm.org

10 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota www.hsdm.org 11 Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota

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Wish List P Dog treats!! (Pupperoni, small Milkbone) Upcoming Events P Frontline Heartworm Preventative P LCD computer monitors, 17” or larger January 24 Tails To Tell tour, 10:00 a.m. P Palm Treo Smartphone for Verizon February 7 Benefit Pancake Breakfast P Automotive GPS devices Applebee's Maple Grove P More puppy raisers! February 17 Tails To Tell tour, 7:00 p.m. P Plastic dog crates (large and extra large) March 14 Volunteer Recognition Luncheon, P Dog grooming services P Van with wheelchair lift, good condition Midland Hills Golf Course P 25’ extension cords March 28 Tails To Tell tour, 10:00 a.m. P Home Theater system for meeting room April 16 Tails To Tell tour, 6:00 p.m. P Mac G4 Computers, laptop April 21 Tails of Independence Luncheon, P 6’ wide ceiling mount video screen Midland Hills Golf Course P 7’+ wide portable video screen November 14 20th Anniversary Gala Location TBA P Small wagon/hatch-back for delivering dogs * All Tails to Tell tours take place at our facility, located at 2537 25th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406. P Microwave cart with drawer Please call our office at 612-729-5986 or 612-729-5914 (tty) to reserve a spot. P Dog leashes, 6’ narrow width cotton P Camcorder, Digital P Exercise pens, 36’-48’ Congratulations! P Donated veterinary services GO GREEN! P Gentle Leaders & Haltis, sizes M & L In an effort to be good citizens, and P New Smoke Detectors P 8-1/2 x 11 copy paper better meet the needs of our readers, P Plastic “Playschool” benches and table we will now offer you a choice: P Batteries, AA & AAA Receive Tails From Minnesota P Carpet cleaner in the current paper format, P Kongs, Nylabones (large & puppy-size) OR receive an email with a link to P Gift certificates to pet stores and Tails From Minnesota that you home improvement stores can quickly download. P Newer wheelchairs, manual Quickie-type P 1st-class stamps Do nothing and Tails From P Purebred puppies Minnesota will arrive at your P New dog grooming supplies door again in 90 days. On January 13, 2009, Al Peters P Gasoline cards received a plaque from Assitance P Send an email to Tom at Adobe InDesign CS2, Illustrator, Photoshop, [email protected] Dogs International during our for Mac P Bleach, Formula 409 cleaner with a request and you will convention in Orlando, Florida. P Paws Safe Sidewalk de-icer hear from us electronically The plaque recognizes that P Gift cards to pet supply stores next time instead.Y Hearing and Service Dogs of P Gift cards to office supply stores Minnesota has become one of a P Kitty Litter select group that has acheived full P 5/8" adjustable 10"-16" collars accreditation by its professional A special thanks to all of you who previously trade association.Y supplied us with wish list items! You made our wishes come true! Y www.hsdm.org