Fall 2011 - Presbyterian Homes & Services

P r e s b y t e r i a n H o m e s & S e r v i c e s
fall 2011
Freedom to Live Well
In the St. Croix Valley

“Out of the believer’s heart shall flow
streams of living water.” John 7:38 NRSV
Dear Friends of Presbyterian Homes & Services,
The St. Croix Valley, anchored by its namesake river as well as miles of scenic
landscapes, small-community character and rich history, is home to many people
including a growing population of older adults.
Presbyterian Homes & Services has served older adults in the St. Croix Valley for
over a decade through its three senior living communities and an expanding range
of home and community services in Washington County, Minnesota and St. Croix
County, Wisconsin. Although our ministry isn’t exclusive to the St. Croix Valley,
the stories shared in this edition of Perspectives tell how our mission affects a
region’s capacity to be a good place for older adults to live. Our vision for the future
increases choices in all the places we reach older adults and wherever they call home.
Rivers have tributaries—rivulets of water flowing into the broader concourse that
together form the contours of the valley. So too, our mission is shaped by the
involvement of affiliate organizations, collaborators and donors who share our vision
and understand that the well being of older adults increases the vitality of a region.
There’s a reason why the sight and sound of a river calms our souls. The river is a
powerful scriptural image with important lessons: God, who is the author of creation,
also provides us wellsprings to resource and refresh; it takes faith and perseverance
to meet the challenges around each bend, whatever obstacles stand in the way; and
even as we stay true to our course, we are both shaping and shaped by the landscape
we inhabit.
PHS provides more than just places to live. By aiming to offer the highest quality
of life for older adults at all of our communities, extended through home and
community services, PHS stays true to our mission to enrich the lives of older adults
and reflect the love of God. Thank you to all who support us with time, talent,
treasure and prayer; from your hearts flow streams of living water.
Together in Christ,
Robert Dunbar
Board Chair
Presbyterian Homes & Services
Daniel A. Lindh
President & CEO
Presbyterian Homes & Services
2
FALL 2011

On the cover:
Croixdale residents and friends cruise the St. Croix
River aboard The Glengarry to celebrate Croixdale’s
50th anniversary; story p. 14
Presbyterian Homes & Services is a non-profit
organization with senior living communities
and services in Minnesota, Wisconsin and
Iowa. PHS relies on the generosity of donors to
provide high quality services for older adults.
Editorial Staff
Editor
Cynthia L. Ray
cray@preshomes.org
Photographers
Scott Jacobson
Cynthia Ray
Stacy Sola
Contributing Writers
Kelsey Osterman
Jeannette Schwietz
Copy Editor
Linda Erickson
Design by Imagewërks
Perspectives is a publication of
Presbyterian Homes Foundation
651-631-6132
giving@preshomes.org
Write to us! We welcome letters about our
articles and invite comments or suggestions
about Perspectives. Send your letter to
Perspectives, 2845 Hamline Avenue N. Roseville,
MN 55113, or email to cray@preshomes.org.
4 At a Glance
News and events of Presbyterian Homes communities
7 Feeding the Multitude
With its new commissary kitchen in operation, Optage
Senior Dining Choices brings home-style meals to the
tables of older adults.
10 The Heart of the North Woods
Elynn Niles, resident of Heartwood in Crosby, MN,
remembers her family and reaches out to her neighbors
to create community.
12 The Balanced Life
Knowledge and encouragement give residents of The
Deerfield a “leg up” to prevent themselves from falling.
14 A Community Treasure
Croixdale in Bayport, MN, celebrates 50 years of
service for older adults in the St. Croix Valley.
17 Hello & Goodbye to PHS Board Members
Kenny Larson joins the Board of Directors as Sandy
Hawley and Larry Carlson finish their terms.
19 On the Horizon – New Project Updates
22 The Joy Society
23 The Philanthropic Perspective
PRESBYTERIAN HOMES & services board of directors
8
Meet Al Roettger, volunteer for Optage
Senior Dining Choices. Al delivers fresh,
hot meals to the homes of older adults
in Washington County, MN.
Robert S. Dunbar, Chair
Harold J. Wiens, Vice Chair
Larry A. Carlson
Austin Chapman
Theodore Chien
Megan A. Doyle
Karol D. Emmerich
Ex-Officio
Philip C. Brown
Synod Representative
Sandra S. Hawley
Kenny Larson
Allen I. Olson
Philip K. Olson
Carole Mae Olson
Ronald C. Tortelli
Scott A. Weicht
OFFICERS
daniel a. Lindh, President and CEO
Mark T. Meyer, Treasurer and CFO
Janna R. Severance, Secretary
and Legal Counsel
perspectives 3

At a Glance
News and Events of PHS Communities
FUNd Run Supports
Benevolence Fund
Optage brings service to
home and community
Expansion of its home and community
services division has led PHS to the
creation of a new brand, Optage. All
the services currently offered by PHS
are encompassed by Optage, plus some
additional ones soon to be launched.
Creative Independence is now Optage
In-Home Care & Services; Creative
Senior Dining is now Optage Senior
Dining Choices; Presbyterian Homes
Hospice is now Optage Hospice;
Helpmates, serving eastern Wisconsin,
is now Optage In-Home Care &
Services. Optage House Calls, offering
primary care will be available soon.
Spring rain did not discourage the 38 staff,
residents and family members who ran 5
kilometers or walked and rolled 1 kilometer
in the 2011 FUNd Run. The event, held
in May at Boutwells Landing in Oak Park
Heights, MN, raised $4,210. Proceeds will
go towards the Benevolence Fund to
support residents throughout PHS who
have outlived their resources and need
financial assistance.
Prizes were awarded to Drew Maione and
Molly Peterson, the fastest man and woman
runners, both members of the Croixdale
team. For a second year, SummerWood of
Plymouth claimed the trophy for highest
site participation, determined by the
percentage of walkers, runners and donors
representing each PHS community.
Optage plays a significant role in
the continuum of care provided
by Presbyterian Homes & Services
and shares a foundation of ministry
that upholds the Christian spirit of
compassion and service. Reaching
into and beyond Presbyterian Homes’
communities, Optage expands the
range of services available to older
adults that help them confidently
live each day to the fullest. For more
information, visit www.optage.org or
call 651-746-8200.
4
FALL 2011

Pathways to Better Health
Pathways to Better Health, a workshop
on self-managing chronic disease, is
being held at a number of PHS sites
throughout 2011. The program focuses
on positive thinking about emotional
and physical well-being, communication
skills, exercise and nutrition. Participants
receive a self-management book and are
involved in interactive learning. Stacy
Sola, Marketing Manager for Optage
home and community services said, “The
program gives older adults valuable tools
to manage their condition in day-to-day
life, so they are able to live well.” Pathways
to Better Health is offered by The Wilder
Foundation, in association with HealthEast,
and funded by The Metropolitan Area
Agency on Aging.
Name Change for Arden Hills
Presbyterian Homes of Arden Hills
publically announced its new name,
Johanna Shores, at the groundbreaking
ceremony held this month (see p. 21).
The new name reflects the Arden Hills
campus’ history and location.
Opened in 1955 as the first Presbyterian
Home, the community was called
Johanna Shores from 1984 to 1992, after
the beautiful Lake Johanna by which it
is located. “Changing the name at the
conception of redevelopment closely
associates the project with its surroundings
and promotes a new beginning for the
community” said Lisa Ambli, Director of
Community Relations and Admissions.
“The name change is fostering excitement
around the redevelopment project,”
she said, “highlighting the heritage and
connection to the community for
residents, families, staff and volunteers.”
Dealing a Good Hand
to Cure Alzheimer’s
Bridge players from SummerWood of
Chanhassen raised $120 for Alzheimer’s
with the event Bridging for a Cause. The
16 residents and members of the Bridge
Marathon Group play from September to
May to raise money for the Alzheimer’s
Association, the largest nonprofit funder
of Alzheimer’s research. “Every member
has been touched in some way by the
disease,” said Amy Stock, Recreation
Director. Mary Schmid, chairperson and
one of this year’s winners, said, “Helping
others is a way of life for us. It helps
us feel good about ourselves and keep
active.” The group, started by Marion
Doyle, SummerWood resident, hopes to
increase donations and membership as it
enters the 2011/2012 season.
The Hearth Comes to EagleCrest
The Hearth enhanced assisted living is
now available at EagleCrest in Roseville,
MN. Designed for residents who need
additional support in assisted living, The
Hearth provides 24-hour nursing care in
an apartment home setting. EagleCrest is
the fourth PHS site to offer The Hearth,
joining Waverly Gardens, Norris Square
and McKenna Crossing. The Hearth is part
of the continuum of care provided by PHS
for older adults to help them transition
comfortably as their health needs change.
perspectives 5

At a Glance
Sisters of the Good Shepherd
move to Boutwells Landing
6 FALL 2011
Residents and staff welcomed 27 Sisters
of the Good Shepherd to Boutwells
Landing this summer. It is the first time
in Minnesota that an organized religious
community has moved all together into
a PHS community.
Realizing that remaining in their convent
in St. Paul, MN was no longer feasible,
the sisters retained the service of
REALM, a consulting firm that works with
mission-based organizations and religious
communities. They found that Boutwells
Landing shared their values while
providing affordable housing and services
as each sister needs. The sisters were also
impressed by the spiritual heritage and
culture of PHS.
The sisters, whose apartments are in
close proximity, include active sisters,
who integrate into daily life, and
contemplative sisters, who live privately
as part of their vocation. An oratory has
been designated for the sisters to pray
together and privately, and space has been
furnished to support the contemplative
sisters’ Altar Bread ministry.
Daily and Sunday Mass will be open to all
Catholics living at Boutwells Landing. The
sisters say that they deeply appreciate the
welcome they’ve received and enjoy the
new friends they are making.
PHS Gains Full Equity
in McKenna Crossing
Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church
(SOLLC), which, with PHS, has been
co-developer and co-owner of McKenna
Crossing in Prior Lake, MN, sold the
church’s position in McKenna Crossing to
PHS. Opened in 2008, the community is
connected to the church building and is part
of the 80-acre Shepherd’s Path campus.
“The sale allows the church to focus
our energy on our mission and ministry
efforts,” said the Rev. Mark Hollman, Senior
Pastor. The sale was endorsed by both the
SOLLC congregational council and the
Shepherd’s Path Board of Directors and the
final decision was made by a vote of the
congregation in May 2011. Although PHS is
the sole owner of McKenna Crossing, the
community and congregation continue to
share social and educational programs as
well as worship and spiritual care services.

Feeding the Multitude
The new commissary
kitchen cooks up
more meal choices for
older adults.
When faced with 5000 hungry people, Jesus performed a miracle
by multiplying two fish and five loaves to meet their need and
demonstrate God’s provision.
Lisa Ekiyor, Commissary Kitchen Director (left), works alongside
Monica Everett to portion entrées for home delivery. Over 85
traditional and ethnic entrée choices are available.
When faced with 5,000 hungry
people, Jesus performed a miracle
by multiplying two fish and five
loaves to meet their need and
demonstrate God’s provision.
Today, Optage Senior Dining Choices faces a
multitude that is nearly as large. “You could
say that we were praying for a miracle," said
Bill Hagstrom, Director of Optage Senior
Dining Choices, “For us, this meant better
space and equipment.”
Hagstrom’s prayer was answered when a new
commissary kitchen opened this summer in
Roseville, MN. The 18,000 square foot kitchen
consolidates meal preparation, packaging and
storage for Senior Dining Choices’ congregate
dining and home-delivered meals programs.
Up to 3,000 meals are prepared daily,
Monday through Friday, to be served at
17 congregate dining centers in the Twin
Cities area, and delivered to over 1,400
participants receiving home-delivered meals.
The commissary kitchen evokes a “wow”
effect. And when Lisa Ekiyor, Commissary
Kitchen Director, says “Wow”, she’s
referring to the kitchen’s size and her staff’s
excitement about their workspace. “It’s just
like heaven,” she said. “We are so blessed
to have everything at our fingertips.” Not
long ago the staff was knocking elbows as
they cooked and packaged meals. “We were
operating out of 5 locations” said Hagstrom.
“Now we’ve brought the entire operation
together, with room to grow.”
(Continued on p. 8)
perspectives 7

Sue Vue prepares opo squash for Hmong cuisine. Fresh
ingredients are used regularly in the commissary kitchen.
Al Roettger, Senior Dining Choices Volunteer (right),
serves a hot meal to Helen Low, home-delivered meal
program participant.
The commissary kitchen main cooking area where staff
prepare up to 3,000 meals daily.
The $3 million kitchen is outfitted with
state-of-the-art equipment, including
multi-rack ovens, 200 gallon kettles, and
large walk-in refrigerators and freezers
that allow four cooks to produce high
volumes of food in a shorter amount of
time than before. Specialty equipment
accommodates techniques used for
Native American, Cambodian, Russian,
Vietnamese, Hmong, Lao, Somali, Karen
and Latino-style meals. A cook-chill system
cooks meal components until almost
done, then rapidly chills for storage until
needed. Cooking 200 gallons of soup made
from fresh ingredients, or 1,000 pounds
of meat in one batch creates an economy
of scale. “This helps us keeps meals
affordable for seniors of all income levels,”
said Hagstrom. Ninety percent of those
participating in the program live on low or
very low income.
Ekiyor and her staff see their work through
the lens of PHS’ vision to provide more
choices for older adults. “We do our best
to live up to our name, Senior Dining
Choices,” she said. She and her staff strive
to overcome the monotony so often found
in institutional food. “People eat with their
eyes before they eat with their mouths.
How food looks is as important to us as
how it tastes.” Ekiyor knows her crew
understands and demonstrates the PHS
mission. “It’s like we’re cooking for our
family at home. We want our meals to be
that good.”
To move meals out of the kitchen and
into the community, staff drivers begin
departing from the kitchen loading dock
at 4:00 a.m. and continue throughout the
afternoon. Components for hot meals
are delivered to be served in the dining
rooms and for hot-meal home delivery.
Meanwhile, frozen entrees are dropped
at local pick-up centers where staff and
volunteers load up and carry out to
individual homes.
8
FALL 2011

In the St. Croix Valley, over 250 households
participate in Senior Dining Choices
home delivered meals. Volunteers like Al
Roettger keep the program sustainable
by offering their time and vehicle. “I look
forward to this every week,” said the
retired trucker and lifelong Stillwater,
MN resident. Every Tuesday, Al picks up
hot meals from Raymie Johnson Senior
Center in Oak Park Heights, MN to deliver
along his 21-mile route. He also provides
important social contact. “I usually chat
with folks for a while,” he said, “I may
be the only person they see all day.”
When Al arrives at the home of Helen
Low who lives alone in her Stillwater
apartment, she opens the door to a trusted,
friendly face and a fresh hot meal. Al helps
Helen set her table and checks around,
asking if there’s anything else she needs.
“I can usually tell if there’s a problem,”
he observes. Helen appreciates the daily
contact as well as the tasty meal. “It’s as
good as if it came from my own kitchen,”
she remarked.
“Volunteers like Al serve as ambassadors
for the program,” commented Jeremy
Misener, Volunteer Coordinator. Misener
oversees nearly 100 regular and substitute
volunteer drivers who cover 24 weekly
frozen meal routes and 5 daily hot meal
routes. Staff and volunteers also provide
personal attention and a weekly check-in
for every client. This includes assistance
with storing the meals, and instructions
how to open and heat their meals. Daily
check-ins and meal preparation assistance
are also available for those who need or
desire more support. “Our volunteers do
more than deliver meals,” Misener said.
“They’re checking in on people. If they
notice something wrong, they let us know
so we can arrange follow-up with the
appropriate expertise needed to respond.”
Misener is actively seeking individual
volunteers and groups to serve as the
program grows. “It’s ideal for local
churches and organizations who want to
make a positive impact in the community,”
he said. Hagstrom confirms Misener’s call
for more volunteers. In 2010 the program
served 500,000 meals to over 5,000 older
adults in Washington, Ramsey, Hennepin
and Anoka Counties. Nearly 10,000 meals
were delivered to participants eligible
for Title III Federal Older Americans Act.
Hagstrom expects to double the volume
by the end of 2011, increasing the need
for more equipment, more volunteers and
more funding.
“It’s like we’re cooking for our family at home.”
Lisa Ekiyor, Commissary Kitchen Director.
“Time and again the local philanthropic
community has responded to projects that
enhance the daily lives of older adults,”
said Steve Preus, Fund Development
Director for Presbyterian Homes
Foundation. Response from the St. Croix
Valley for the commissary kitchen project
has been especially generous. Major gifts
from the Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen
Foundation and the Margaret Rivers Fund
made the commissary kitchen possible.
“However, with the anticipated demand,
we will need additional support from
individuals and want to continue our work
with foundations,” Preus appeals. Every
$100 gift is equivalent to approximately 20
healthy prepared meals. For an older adult
this represents nearly a month’s worth
of nutritious meal choices that enhance
their daily experience and enable them to
maintain their independence.
To support Senior Dining Choices and the
commissary kitchen project, contact Steve
Preus at 651-631-6106 or email at
spreus@preshomes.org. Individuals and
groups may volunteer by contacting
Jeremy Misener at 651-631-6370 or email
jmisener@preshomes.org.
~ Cynthia L. Ray
perspectives 9

The Heart of
the North Woods
Heartwood resident, Elynn Niles, dedicates her time,
talent and treasure to benefit her community.
Elynn in the
garden she
planted in
memory of
David and their
son, Scott.
Elynn Niles and her husband
David had long planned to
build a cabin “up north” to
live in when they retired.
“We didn’t have to build
it,” said Elynn. “We came to
Heartwood instead. This is
our North Woods cabin.” They
arrived August 2009, shortly
after Heartwood opened.
“We fell in love with the place
the minute we walked through
the door,” Elynn remembers.
“It’s so beautiful here.”
Elynn looks out the windows of her
Terrace apartment to the tree-lined
walking path that circles a pond. She
enjoys the solitude of the community and
its proximity to nature where deer wander
out of the pine forest and into her view.
Within steps from Elynn’s patio door is a
perennial garden that she and a neighbor
planted and tend. A bench and sign let
others know that the garden is in memory
of David and their son, Scott.
David passed away in July 2010, 12 days after
being diagnosed with cancer. His memorial
service was the first held in Heartwood’s
Conference Center. Military honors were
performed across the lawn by a veterans’
rifle squad, and the Heartwood community
wrapped its arms around Elynn to comfort
her. “Everybody was wonderful,” she said.
“There isn’t anyone here who hasn’t lost
someone close to them. So they understand
and surrounded me with support and
encouragement.”
Scott, their only child, passed away just two
years before his father. Scott had cerebral
palsy and throughout his 39 years needed
their full-time support. “He was our joy and
blessing,” said Elynn. When he was 21, Scott
moved into a group home 3 miles from the
Farmstead, a PHS community in Andover,
MN. Elynn and David moved into a cottage
at the Farmstead in 2005 to simplify their
lives and be near Scott. “We had only our
son and no other family for support,” Elynn
deduced. “The Farmstead brought us near
our son and had the support we needed
for years to come.” While they lived at The
Farmstead, David and Elynn called on Kent
Osterman, Presbyterian Homes Foundation
Development Director, to establish a
charitable gift annuity to support the future
work of PHS.
10
FALL 2011

In the months following Scott’s death,
Elynn and David grieved their loss, but
also found themselves able to relocate
north as they had dreamed. Once at
Heartwood, it did not take them long
to become acquainted and get involved.
They invested their time in forming the
culture of the new community. David
initiated the building and stocking of the
library and volunteered to drive residents
to medical appointments, church and
shopping in the 6-passenger mini-van
used by Heartwood. David considered the
little van far from adequate for a growing
community and Elynn agreed.
Before David was ill, he and Elynn
envisioned Heartwood having its own
full-sized van. “We were told it typically
takes 7 to 10 years for a PHS community
to raise funds for a van. We didn’t want
Heartwood to wait that long.” David was
committed to the goal that Heartwood
would have its van in 5 years. “When he
died, I knew that I could carry forward
his vision.” Elynn agreed to serve as the
resident representative on a committee
to raise funds and make plans for a van
at Heartwood. She set up a memorial
fund in her husband's name, through
the Presbyterian Homes Foundation,
to initiate a fundraising campaign in
hopes that others would join her to meet
the goal of $100,000 to purchase and
operate the van.
Heartwood is more than two-thirds
towards its goal and expects to purchase
the van this fall. Elynn communicates
fundraising progress by updating the
large bulletin board in Heartwood's
Grand Lodge dedicated to the van
campaign. She sees the enthusiasm
rising with the dollar totals and
“The van will allow us who live at
Heartwood to enjoy all the benefits of
Crosby and the North Woods, and we
can go together,” Elynn said.
A Christian all her life, and never one
to be idle, Elynn has served as women’s
Bible study leader at Heartwood for the
past year. “We’re just a little group of
girlfriends who all support each other,"
she said. "It's our time to come together
with each other and with scripture.”
She finds that the Bible study has been
a way for newcomers to make friends
and feel a sense of belonging. “Without
immediate family,” she said, “Heartwood
is my family.”
“Even facing loss, I look for joy,” Elynn
says. “David's last words to me were,
‘You’ll be okay, Elynn, because you live
at Heartwood. And I know you’ll do
everything to make this the best possible
place to live.’”
~ Cynthia L. Ray
To donate
to the Heartwood
Van fund or support
any PHS community,
contact the
Presbyterian Homes
Foundation
at 651-631-6132
or email
giving@preshomes.org
Elynn and
David Niles in
October 2009.

The Balanced Life
A Matter of Balance educates and empowers older adults to prevent falls
One glance at Isabelle
O’Connell’s apartment in
The Deerfield in New
Richmond, WI, and her
artistic skill is unmistakable.
Her paintings line the walls, vivid colors
and delicate brush strokes blending to
create pictures of birds, buildings and
natural settings.
“I took painting classes,” Isabelle recounts.
“I loved doing it, but I had to give it up.”
It has been ten years since Isabelle held
a paintbrush to compose one of her
masterpieces. She originally took up
the hobby after retiring from 37 years
of teaching, but reluctantly gave up her
pastime when macular degeneration
developed. Now legally blind, Isabelle’s loss
of vision has also forced her to part with
other activities like reading, which was
especially hard.
Lynn Lueders, Fitness Instructor (left),
leads Deerfield residents in a discussion
about maintaining proper balance.
“It was very difficult because I used to keep
a book going all the time,” Isabelle recalls.
“It was a part of my life. But you have to
find a way to get around it.” Isabelle, who
considers herself very independent, now
listens to books recorded on CDs instead.
She says it helps her learn more about the
world and keeps her mind engaged. Isabelle
and her friends enjoy their favorite card
games (euchre and 500) using a special
large deck.
When Isabelle began to notice that her
limited sight was affecting her balance, she
decided to be proactive. “I wanted to be
ahead of the game,” she adds.
In early May, Isabelle joined 13 other
Deerfield residents to take part in A Matter
of Balance: Managing Concerns about
Falls. The eight-week class is being offered
at Presbyterian Homes & Services (PHS)
communities as part of an active campaign
to reduce the risk and fear of falls and
enhance the lives of older adults.
The falls-prevention program provides
residents with a safe environment in which
to discuss their concerns and impressions
about falling, learn new exercises to help
with balance and flexibility, and learn from
and interact with their neighbors. But
perhaps most importantly, the course helps
residents combat fears and reshape their
mindset regarding falls.
“The physical aspects of falling, that’s one
side,” says Lynn Lueders, Fitness Instructor,
and one of the Matter of Balance leaders at
The Deerfield. “And we can address those.
Especially in fitness, we do address those
constantly. But for Matter of Balance, we
incorporate many areas. There’s a lot of
psychological aspects, such as positive
thinking and anxiety management."
12
FALL 2011

Lueders says that throughout the class,
“action plans” are crucial. These sets of
concrete steps help residents achieve
manageable goals, such as exercising more.
The plans are personally crafted to help
each individual achieve their goals, no
matter their current physical health. As a
result of her action plan, Isabelle installed
a handle in her shower and increased the
number of rings on her phone from four
to eight, to prevent herself from rushing
carelessly to the phone.
“We had to make lists of what we thought
we needed to do and then how to go about
doing it,” Isabelle remarks. “I might have
put it off and put it off, but with the class,
it inspired me to get it done right now.”
The class was developed by Boston
University in coalition with the National
Institute on Aging. PHS worked with the
Minnesota Area Agency on Aging (MAAA)
to train instructors for the course, which
follows guidelines prescribed by Boston
University, including the small class size.
After two days of training, the instructors’
teaching methods are reviewed by the
MAAA before they are officially qualified
to lead A Matter of Balance.
Interest in the course at The Deerfield
was so high that, in one day, it reached
maximum registration with a waiting
list, according to Jackie Waalen, Resident
Services Director at The Deerfield. Waalen
says the excitement of the residents
inspired her and Lueders to take the
necessary steps to offer the class.
“We worked hard to make sure A Matter of
Balance happened at The Deerfield as soon
as possible,” Waalen notes.
A Matter of Balance was given a trial run
at another PHS community, EagleCrest
in Roseville, MN, before it was offered
elsewhere. Boutwells Landing in Oak
Park Heights, MN, and Waverly Gardens
in North Oaks, MN have experienced
the benefits of the program so far. Sites
including Stonecrest in Woodbury, MN
and Croixdale in Bayport, MN will be
providing the course soon.
JoAnn Wrich, Campus Administrator at
The Deerfield, sees and hears how the
residents appreciate the course and are
changing their thoughts and actions to
be proactive instead of reactive.
As for Isabelle, she attributes her
increased awareness of possible dangers
to the class. She is not letting her vision
limitations hold her back, but approaches
life with more common sense and care.
She feels more assured of her balance
and better prepared to continue her
favorite activities.
For other older adults who have not yet
taken A Matter of Balance, Isabelle gives
it a strong endorsement.
“As we get older, we all lose balance and
we need to be aware of that to prevent
falls,” she observes. “I highly recommend
this class to anyone. It is well worth the
eight weeks.”
For more information, go to
www.mnfallsprevention.org.
Isabelle O’Connell
practices a balance
exercise with the
assistance of Instructor
Lynn Lueders.
The program helps residents combat fears
and reshape their mindset regarding falls.
~ Kelsey Osterman
perspectives 13

A Community Treasure
Croixdale celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Croixdale is nestled in the heart of Bayport, MN, a town that
sits below hills and bluffs carved out by the St. Croix River
eons ago. The town’s inhabitants, many born in Bayport and
those who wandered in and stayed, make up a population of
3,300. Most people are acquainted in some way and there is
always a caring hand outstretched to help.
Summer picnics at
the Andersen Home,
1962 and 2011.
This idyllic setting, however, does not
stop the clock on growing old. Gone are
the days when three generations lived
together in rambling farmhouses. Some
older adults realize that they no longer
want or can sustain the responsibility
of maintaining a home on their own.
Outliving their spouse and friends can
bring loneliness and isolation; even put
their health and safety at risk.
Over five decades ago, Katherine
“Kitty” Andersen and the St. Croix
Valley Association of University Women
were concerned for the well-being of
seniors and the need for affordable
senior housing in the St. Croix Valley.
They created the Committee on Seniors
in 1952 to identify the concerns of
an aging population; health, safety,
companionship, feeling needed,
contributing to their community
and maintaining a spiritual life.
14
FALL 2011

Bayport advanced their initiative in 1956
by incorporating the committee as the
Washington County Association for
Senior Citizens. The Association
researched Wisconsin and Minnesota
retirement communities, including the
original campus of Presbyterian Homes
& Services (PHS) in Arden Hills, MN.
Step-by-step the resourceful women
continued to lay plans. Research was
followed by fundraising. They asked
themselves, “What did we know about
fundraising?” remembers Jean Jacobson
who was a member of the Association
with Kitty Andersen. Without hesitation
they sought help from trusted financial
experts in their community, including
Earl Swanson and Bob Davis. Many
individuals donated money, as did the
Bayport Foundation, and in the fall of
1961 Croixdale opened debt-free.
The one-story, flat-roofed building was
designed for 50 residents in a homey
atmosphere. The aging population could
remain in Bayport and be vitally involved
in the community. Jacobson, also a
charter member of the Croixdale board
of directors, recalled early participation
of local churches, Girl Scouts and other
willing volunteers. “It wasn’t hard to get
people involved” she said.
By the mid-1990’s Croixdale recognized
once again, the need to update its
property and operations. However
financial resources were a pressing
concern. In response, Croixdale affiliated
with PHS and Lakeview Hospital in 1998,
and plans were developed. Another
capital campaign resulted in contributions
totaling $12 million that enabled a
complete campus renovation.
Rene Roeser, Croixdale’s administrator,
who has worked for PHS for more than
twenty-five years, transferred to Croixdale
in 2001. She was welcomed for her
leadership, expertise and natural rapport
with all the staff. Rene took responsibility
not only for the staff but also the
construction project details and design.
The new building was completed in
18 months. Its wrap around style of
architecture expresses the warmth you
find inside and outside. Its wooded hillside
location is inviting to the wildlife that visit
the campus all year. A gazebo furnished
with chairs and a small picturesque bridge
over the pond add to its natural beauty.
On entering the building, you immediately
feel it reaching out to greet you.
(Continued on p. 16)
A plan to add an apartment building
for seniors arose in March 1978 and
fundraising began again. A four-story,
41-unit building was financed entirely
by donations from area individuals,
foundations and businesses. The
$2 million project was celebrated with
an open house in 1981.
Jean Jacobson (left), charter Croixdale
board member, greets Dagne
Christensen, current resident who
worked as a nurse at Croixdale from
1975 to 1995, at the 50th Anniversary
kick-off dinner in January 2011.
perspectives 15

A 1961 rendering of Croixdale's first building
and Croixdale today (above).
This year, Croixdale has been celebrating
its heritage and envisioning its future.
The Board of Directors kicked off the
50th anniversary in January with
the release of the book, Croixdale, a
Community Treasure, by Allison Jensen
and a video by the same title produced
by iDream.tv. The public joined in the
celebration at a winter open house.
“50 Acts of Sharing” invited individuals and
groups from the St. Croix Valley to partner
with Croixdale in collaborative activities
that would make a positive impact in the
community. “Community involvement has
been part of Croixdale’s success from its
beginning and continues to be important
today” said Roeser.
The crowning event of the year was a
picnic in August at the site of Fred and
Kitty Andersen’s home on the banks of
the St. Croix River. From the 1960’s to
the early 1990’s, Croixdale held an annual
summertime picnic at the beautiful
homestead, now owned and conserved
by the Andersen Corporation. This year,
over 200 residents, staff, families and
volunteers attended the picnic recreated
as it had been years before. The Stillwater
trolley was hired to shuttle residents
to the picnic site where they enjoyed
a ham on tea biscuit sandwich, potato
salad, pineapple slice, root beer, and
cupcakes. A lively game of bingo,
sponsored by the Croixdale board of
directors, was played after lunch. A
barbershop quartet serenaded during
lunch and aboard the Andersen boat, the
Glengarry, as picnickers cruised the river
(see cover photo).
The anniversary year celebrates
Croixdale as a treasure to the town of
Bayport and throughout the St. Croix
Valley. The celebrations also extend
appreciation to Bayport’s dedicated
citizens, past and present, who have
been treasures in return. “Croixdale’s
50th Anniversary is a rededication to
serve older adults in the St. Croix Valley
for years to come,” Roeser said. “We’re
excited about the future, even as we
celebrate the past.”
~ Jeannette Schwietz,
Croixdale Resident
with contributions by
Allison Jenson
16
FALL 2011

Hello & Goodbye
to PHS Board Members
Kenny Larson
joins the Board of Directors
The Board of Directors of PHS welcomes its newest member, Kenny
Larson, President of Slumberland, Inc., a home furnishings retailer
based in Little Canada, MN. Kenny began his service in May 2011.
Kenny felt honored when PHS board
members Bob Dunbar and Karol Emmerich
invited him to serve on the board. He was
impressed with the leadership Karol and
Bob demonstrated on the Slumberland
Advisory Board and grew interested in
their work with PHS. Kenny has also
witnessed how PHS lives out its mission
at St. Andrew’s Village in Mahtomedi, MN,
where his grandfather, Roger Larson, lives
at the Terrace.
“Serving where I have skills is important
to me," said Kenny, who feels that his
experience in organizational change,
honed at Slumberland, will benefit the
development of PHS. He’s also eager to
learn from other board members. “I know
that I’ll be getting as much or more from
the experience that I’m giving,” he said. He
expects to carry into his service as a board
member what he knows and continues to
learn about organizational transformation,
stewardship and values-based leadership.
Thank you, good and faithful servants.
Board members complete their terms
When Sandra Hawley and Larry Carlson joined its Board of Directors
in 2002, PHS was serving 6,000 residents. Today, as Sandy and
Larry complete their service, PHS serves over 12,000 residents and
an additional 5,500 older adults who receive home and community
services. We say thank you to Larry and Sandy for their dedication
and leadership through years of remarkable growth.
(Continued on p. 18)
perspectives 17

Hello & Goodbye
18
FALL 2011
“It’s been amazing to witness and be
involved in the progress of PHS,” said
Sandy. “PHS remains mission-focused,
people-centered, and a good steward,
and yet it demonstrates its agility to
adapt to changing needs and
organizational climates.”
Sandy applied her experience in the
medical device industry and her
leadership as an elder in the
Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) to the
board. But her personal experiences
caring for her parents first summoned
and again renewed her commitment.
After her father died of dementiarelated
causes, her mother moved to
SummerWood of Chanhassen. “I wouldn’t
consider anywhere but a PHS community
for Mom,” she said.
Sandy holds her fellow
board members in
high esteem. “There
Sandra Hawley is a remarkable
depth and breadth
of experience and
knowledge around
the table," she said.
Sandy has been
influenced by the board members’ mindset
that there is more to learn, as well as
their refusal to settle for anything but
the best efforts from themselves and the
organization. A high point during her
service was PHS’s supportive involvement
and visible presence at the 219th General
Assembly of the PCUSA, held in July
2011 in Minneapolis. Sandy served as the
co- chair of local arrangements for the
assembly. She also represented the board
to the Presbyterian Association of Homes
& Services for the Aging (PAHSA). “PHS
has a reputation of quality and progressive
innovation that reaches nationwide”.
Sandy intends to remain involved as an
ambassador for PHS and advocate for
older adults, especially in relationship
to the PCUSA and PAHSA. “I plan to
stay on the bridge between PHS and the
denomination,” she said. “But then, it’s
easy to be a cheerleader for PHS.”
Larry Carlson
“I’ve appreciated the opportunity to
meet interesting, talented and highly
dedicated people from many walks of life,”
said Larry about his fellow board members.
He credits them for helping him gain a
greater understanding of the mission to
serve older adults.
When Larry first joined the board,
PHS was on the crest of rapid growth
and expansion. In recent years, he’s
brought his organizational acumen to
adapt to changing economic and
political conditions, solidify resources,
modify strategies, and uphold the
charge of the board to be good stewards
of the organization.
Larry’s involvement in Highland Ridge,
located in Williamsburg, IA tops the
achievements of his service. Beginning
with the vision and major gift of the
Roland and Ruby Holden Foundation,
Larry contributed his leadership towards
developing and launching the new
community and was impressed by how the
PHS staff transformed vision into reality
in 2004. “It is a tribute to the ability of
PHS to work collaboratively with other
individuals and organizations.” He said.
Larry feels that he has learned the value
of defining the board’s proper role
and relationship at the hand of Austin
Chapman, board chair from 2008 to 2010.
He has come to appreciate the value
and effectiveness of keeping focused
on mission from Dan Lindh's steady
navigation. “I think the staff and board
have done a great job of doing just that.
PHS seems well positioned to continue
in its leadership position in senior adult
services,” he said.

On the Horizon
Project Updates
Lake Minnetonka
Shores
Lake Minnetonka Shores,
Spring Park, MN
Residents celebrated moving day from
The Chateau to their new apartments
in The Commons assisted living on June
16, 2011. The new 4-story building offers
66 assisted living and memory care
suites with a neighborhood-based floor
plan designed for Liberty Personally
Designed Living. The Chateau has been
demolished, making way for additional
parking. Seven new senior apartments are
being added to The Court Terrace, with an
additional two senior apartments in The
Villa Terrace.
The new Town Center, with its beautiful
views of the lake, physically connects all
campus buildings allowing for integrated
activities and services. With approximately
20,000 square feet on two levels, the
Town Center features a sun-draped
chapel; wellness center; dining room, café
and deli; convenience market; style salon
and other community spaces.
This renovated community will be
dedicated on October 25, 2011 at 4:00
p.m. and the Grand Opening is scheduled
for October 29, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. Ioana
Childs, Housing Counselor may be
reached at 952-471-6083 or ichilds@
preshomes.org for more information.
Carondelet Village, St. Paul, MN
The first phase of construction is nearly
complete for Carondelet Village, a shared
ministry of PHS and the Sisters of St.
Joseph of Carondelet. The CSJ sisters
currently living at Bethany Convent and
other new residents are eager to move in
before the end of the year. At that time
the convent will be demolished and Phase
2 construction will begin with completion
of the entire campus anticipated for spring
2012. Carondelet Village will offer a full
continuum of care that promotes vital
living, complemented by Carondelet Circle,
providing holistic wellness and enrichment
programs for residents of Carondelet
Village as well as the larger community.
For more information, contact Karen
Vento, Housing Advisor at 651-631-6334
or kvento@preshomes.org.
perspectives 19

Project Updates
Founders Ridge, Bloomington, MN
A groundbreaking ceremony was held at
the site near the Minnesota Valley Country
Club and Bethany International campus,
where construction on Founders Ridge
began in April 2011. Gene Winstead, Mayor
of Bloomington, addressed the more than
90 people attending the ceremony. “The
housing that Presbyterian Homes provides
and how they live out their mission meets
needs as the population of Bloomington
matures,” he told the crowd.
When Phase 1 is complete in spring 2012,
the 106-unit campus will include senior
apartments, assisted living, enhanced
assisted living apartments, and memory
care suites. The Town Center will house a
salon, bistro, chapel, game lounge, library,
movie theater, performing arts center and
banquet room. The grounds will feature a
patio, gardens and outdoor walking trails.
Founders Ridge
groundbreaking,
Bloomington, MN
Founder’s Ridge is located adjacent to
Bethany College of Missions. Bethany
International began as a partner in this
project, but sold the property and equity
in the project to PHS. Informational
meetings are being held through October
2011. Reservations are being accepted for
senior apartments. For more information,
contact Sheena Sayre, Housing Advisor at
952-941-5047 or ssayre@preshomes.org.
Highland Ridge Care Center
Addition, Williamsburg, IA
Construction began in August 2011 to add
a CCDI (Chronic Confusion and Dementing
Illness) wing to the Highland Ridge care
center. When complete in spring 2012,
the 15 suites, designed uniquely for
memory care, will share a new chapel,
dining room and common activity area.
The suites are expected to fill quickly
due to high demand. Mark Hudson,
Director of Operations, 651-631-6402
or mhudson@preshomes.org, may be
contacted for further information.
Valley Ridge, Burnsville, MN
The Valley Ridge Shopping Center was
purchased in July 2011 by Dakota County
Community Development Agency (CDA)
for this joint venture with PHS to build
affordable senior housing. The retail
buildings were demolished in September
2011 and construction of Valley Ridge
senior living community began in October
by Kraus-Anderson, general contractor.
This new community for income-qualified
older adults is owned by CDA and managed
by PHS. When complete in fall 2012, Valley
Ridge will include 80 senior apartments, 40
assisted living apartments and 20 memory
care suites. For more information, contact
Pamela Belz, Project Developer at
651-631-6316 or pbelz@seniorpartners.com.
20
FALL 2011

The Deerfield,
New Richmond, WI
Construction began in September
2011 to relocate The Deerfield Gables
Care Center and add a Town Center.
The results will be a full continuum of
care serving older adults in St. Croix
County, WI. When complete near the
end of 2012, this 3-story addition will
feature The Gables with 61 skilled care
suites in neighborhood settings. A new
Town Center on the main level will link
the existing buildings with The Gables
located on the two stories above. The
Town Center will feature a dining room
and café, a clubroom, wellness center,
style salon, and community/chapel space
to gather for worship and events.
For more information, contact
Pamela Belz, Project Developer at
651-631-6316 or pbelz@seniorpartners.com
or Megan Corcoran, Gables Care Center
Administrator, at 715-246-6851
or mcorcoran@preshomes.org.
Johanna Shores
(formerly Presbyterian Homes of Arden Hills)
With financing closed, Weis Builders, general contractor, began
Phase 1 construction of PHS’s flagship campus in September 2011.
A groundbreaking and renaming celebration was held on October 5,
2011 and current assisted living residents are expected to move in
by fall 2012. All existing building but the McKnight Care Center will
be demolished and rebuilt with a total of 54 senior apartments, 72
assisted living apartments and 36 memory care suites by summer
2013. Furnishing and other elements of Putnam Chapel will be
included in a new chapel that will also have architectural gestures
respecting Putnam’s heritage. For information about reservations or
resident relocation, contact Lisa Ambli, Director
of Community Relations and Admissions, at 651-631-6073 or
lambli@preshomes.org.
Folkestone, Wayzata, MN
The Deerfield Gables and
Town Center construction
site, New Richmond, WI
Terrace West senior apartments of Folkestone is 100% reserved
with a strong wait list and reservations are being accepted for
Terrace East. The Bay Center Mall and other buildings on the site
are scheduled to be demolished and construction of senior housing
is anticipated to begin by the end of 2011, pending approval of city
leaders. Folkestone will provide premier senior living within The
Promenade of Wayzata, a mixed-use community that includes 255
senior apartments and in addition to apartments for residents of
all ages, 130,000 square feet of retail space and a 100-room hotel.
Contact Dena Kuenzel, Housing Advisor at 952-944-5737
or dkuenzel@preshomes.org for information about senior housing.
To inquire about commercial space, contact John Mehrkens,
651-631-6313 or jmehrkens@seniorpartners.com.
perspectives 21

A distinguished group
of donors recognized
for annual gifts of
$1,000 or more
A fresh recognition of a faithful legacy
Now, more than ever, your generous support can serve as an
example to others that caring for older adults is one of our most
important human callings. By joining The Joy Society, you play
a highly valued role in the care of older adults. It is because of
donors like you that we can continue our ministry of providing
services of the highest quality and promoting independence,
dignity and well-being for older adults.
The Joy Society is named
for Miss Lillias Joy, whose
generous gift of 20 acres
on the shores of Lake
Johanna in Arden Hills, MN,
gave Presbyterian Homes
& Services its beginning.
Ground was broken in 1952
and the first community for
older adults was dedicated
in 1955.
“And God is able to make all
grace abound to you, so that
in all things at all times, having
all that you need, you will
abound in every good work...
As it is written, ‘He has
scattered abroad his gifts
to the poor; his righteousness
endures forever.’”
2 Corinthians 9:8, 11 NIV
Contact 651-631-6132
or giving@preshomes.org
for questions or assistance.
We are happy to help
without obligation.
Annual Giving
Annual Giving emphasizes the importance of annual support and
the need for a strong financial base to meet the challenges and
opportunities each year. Donors who give $1,000 or more annually
(October 1 through September 30) are recognized in the annual
report and are invited to special events.
President’s Circle $25,000 and greater
Leadership Circle $10,000 to $24,999
Builder’s Circle $5,000 to $9,999
Ambassador’s Circle $1,000 to $4,999
Lifetime Giving
Lifetime Giving recognizes donors whose cumulative total of gifts
over the years is $50,000 or greater. These generous supporters help
build and sustain older adult housing and services for years to come.
Benefactor represents the top tier of Presbyterian Homes & Services
donors, those who contribute $1 million or more cumulatively.
Individuals and organizations that make up this group represent the
foremost supporters of PHS.
Pacesetter is a select group of individuals and organizations who
demonstrate distinctive leadership by committing $250,000 to
$999,999 to support the mission of PHS.
Founder represents those who generously contribute $100,000 to
$249,999, continuing the remarkable philanthropic tradition that has
been a part of PHS since its founding.
Patron represents those who give $50,000 to $99,999 to advance the
mission of PHS. Their generosity provides the support for older adults
to live well.

The Philanthropic Perspective
Your gifts are a tangible expression of your belief that long life is a blessing.
They show your support for older adults to live well. Whether you make a
small donation in honor or memory of a loved one, or include PHS in your
estate, every gift makes a difference. We value your commitment and
contribution to the PHS mission. Thank you.
Your gifts to Presbyterian Homes Foundation
may be designated for the following funds:
Where the Need is Greatest Fund
Allows PHS, with Board approval, to allocate funds where they are
most needed to enrich the lives of older adults. This may include the
ability to do things, such as remodeling a community space, planting
gardens, introducing a new program as well as covering some
unexpected expenses.
Benevolence Fund
Supports residents to help them remain in a PHS community even
when they have outlived their financial resources.
Chaplains and Spiritual Life Fund
Provides access to spiritual care for every resident, regardless of
faith persuasions, through chaplains, trained volunteer spiritual care
providers and spiritual programs. Many residents say that this is one
of the most important aspects of living in a PHS community.
Consider making a gift to benefit older adults served
by Presbyterian Homes & Services. Here are three ways
to be a blessing in their lives:
Bequests - Learn how to help others by utilizing
this popular and easy way to make a gift.
Beneficiary Designations - Support our work beyond
your lifetime by naming PHS as a beneficiary of your
retirement plan, life insurance or insurance annuity assets.
Charitable Gift Annuities - Support PHS while you receive
income for life through a fixed annual annuity payment.
Mission
The mission of Presbyterian
Homes & Services is to
enrich the lives of older
adults through services
and communities that
reflect the love of God.
Vision
To provide more choices
and opportunities for more
older adults to live well.
Values
Compassion
Service
People
Stewardship
Christian Ministry
Growth & Innovation
Gifts may be sent through the Presbyterian Foundation secure online
gift site. Your information will be confidential and not be shared with
any other organization. To make a secure gift using your credit card,
go to www.preshomes.org/foundation and click on "Support Us."

NON PROFIT ORG.
US POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 4330
TWIN CITIES, MN
2845 Hamline Avenue North
Roseville, Minnesota 55113
Presbyterian Homes
Communities
For more information about
PHS Communities, go to:
www.preshomes.org
651-631-6100
*shared venture communities
+ managed communities
0 managed by Volunteers of
America National Services
Twin Cities—North
EagleCrest
Roseville, MN
The Farmstead
Andover, MN
GracePointe Crossing
Cambridge, MN
Johanna Shores
Arden Hills, MN
Langton Place
Roseville, MN
Maranatha 0
Brooklyn Center, MN
The Mayfield
Little Canada, MN
Mississippi Shores
Monticello, MN
Oak Crest
Spring Lake Park, MN
SummerHouse
of Shoreview
Shoreview, MN
Waverly Gardens
North Oaks, MN
Twin Cities—West
Beacon Hill
Minnetonka, MN
Castle Ridge
Eden Prairie, MN
Lake Minnetonka Shores
Spring Park, MN
SummerWood
of Chanhassen*
Chanhassen, MN
SummerWood
of Plymouth
Plymouth, MN
Twin Cities—South
McKenna Crossing
Prior Lake, MN
Presbyterian Homes
of Bloomington
Bloomington, MN
Ridgeview Terrace
Bloomington, MN
SummerHouse
of Bloomington
Bloomington, MN
Timber Hills
Inver Grove Heights, MN
Twin Ci ties—East
Boutwells Landing*
Oak Park Heights, MN
Cardinal Pointe+
Maplewood, MN
Cardinal Pointe+
Oakdale, MN
Central Towers
St. Paul, MN
Croixdale
Bayport, MN
Echo Ridge
Oakdale, MN
Norris Square
Cottage Grove, MN
St. Andrew’s Village*
Mahtomedi, MN
Stonecrest
Woodbury, MN
Outstate
Heartwood*
Crosby, MN
The Homestead*
at Rochester
Rochester, MN
Iowa
Highland Ridge
Williamsburg, IA
Mill-Pond
Ankeny, IA
Wisconsin
Avalon Square
Waukesha, WI
The Deerfield
New Richmond, WI
Kirkland Crossings
Pewaukee, WI