INNSIDE

PROPERTIES
Fall 2005

Courtyard By Marriott Joins The Torgerson Properties Family

TPI Spotlight
There is a new member of the Torgerson Properties family...its the Courtyard by Marriott in Rochester, Minnesota! The Courtyard opened its doors on October 26th and has instantly become one of the premiere lodging facilities in Rochester. Located directly across the street from St. Marys Hospital, the Courtyard is well-positioned to cater to the ever-growing demand for hotel rooms around the largest private hospital in The recently opened Courtyard by Marriott is located directly across the street from Saint Marys Hospital in the world. This is truly an exceptional Rochester, Minnesota. The Courtyard is well-positioned to cater to the ever-growing demand for hotel rooms next property. The opulent interior, with its dark to the worlds largest private hospital. October 26th marked the Courtyards much anticipated opening. cherry wood, includes a full-service restaurant and lounge, two meeting rooms, swimming pool, whirlpool, business center and fitness room. Outdoors you will find a beautiful courtyard with extensive landscaping. This smoke-free hotel has 117 high end rooms including 38 Kings, 69 Doubles, 4 Spa Kings and 6 Suites. For the convenience of our guests, parking is made easy in the on-site enclosed private parking ramp. Because the needs of the guests come first, Courtyard Rochester is committed to giving their guests the ultimate hospitality experience. That experience starts with and ends with the staff. Lets meet the team that opened Torgerson Properties new Courtyard in Rochester. General Manager Dennis Cowley joined TPI from the Holiday Inn Sun Spree Resort in West Yellowstone, Montana. Dennis has over twenty-five years of experience in the hospitality industry. His wife Debra and his five-year-old daughter Sage are happy to be moving into their new home in Rochester and enjoying all of the activities a wonderful mid-western community has to offer. ...continued on page 16

Tom Torgerson Identifies TPIs Greatest Asset

Most wise old business people will tell you that the one thing you can count on in business is "CHANGE". Therefore, I believe that to assume that the status quo will carry us to the promised land is not a safe bet. In the last four years, the hospitality industry has taken direct unexpected hits unassociated with the ordinary cycles of the economy. These events include the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the SARS disease, the Iraqi war and now Hurricane Katrina. To some degree, looking back on the effects of these catastrophes is enlightening. I find it enlightening from the standpoint of how resilient our economy is and how TPI has learned not to panic when these events occur, even though they will force significant change. In these situations, TPI has tried to help those in need while simultaneously steering our own ship (TPI), without interruption, on its course towards success and improvement. Some initiatives TPI is currently focused on include fund raising to help the victims of the horrific catastrophe of Hurricane Katrina. Within this newsletter you will find articles on some of the efforts our properties have made to raise funds to help. In addition, Torgerson Properties will match dollar-for-dollar all associate donations to the Katrina Relief Fund made in the month of September. While attempting to help those in need, we are also continuing our course to include the many renovation projects which improve our facilities and guest experiences.
Tom Torgerson Chief Executive Officer Torgerson Properties, Inc.

A large part of the change associated with TPI renovations and new construction projects is the design incorporated into them. TPI has adopted the adjective "Sassy" to define the mind set we are now employing when thinking through and planning our renovations. We don't want to just be new and ordinary, but rather new and segueing into the gaining popularity of what is being described in our industry as the contemporary life style look. Some recent projects that are just being completed depict our new approach to design, include renovations at SpringHill Suites Rochester, Staybridge Suites Naples and our new construction at CourtYard Rochester. Something that hopefully will never change is TPI's very special relationship with its associates. For years we have viewed our #1 asset as being our associates and we are well-recognized in the industry for this belief. Many might suggest our greatest assets are our hotel or restaurant real estate, but we truly believe it is our associates that separate us from our competition. Our close relationship with our associates does not come at the cost of compromising performance. More clearly stated, TPI does not view the function of holding its associates accountable for producing results as a competing force to our close relationship. In fact, setting performance boundaries and expectations breads a culture of mutual respect and autonomy for our associates to conduct their business the best way they determine for any specific situation. We celebrate our successes together and we confront our challenges together. Both of these traits are essential to a healthy, close relationship. We are passionate about what we do and darn good at it. I can't say often enough how appreciative I am of what the associates at TPI do to make this the great company that it is today. I love my job as your CEO and am just glad to be a part of this wonderful TEAM! Tom

In an unprecedented effort to offer much-needed assistance to the hurricane victims in the Gulf area, Tom Torgerson announced at the 2005 Awards Banquet that Torgerson Properties would match, dollar for dollar, all monetary donations made by its associates. Donations continue to come in company-wide in support of this very important cause. In addition to this matching program, and the efforts from the Staybridge Suites in Naples (page 13), two other TPI locations went above and beyond to make a difference...

Now Hear This!

The Perkins Red Wing team challenged themselves to do whatever they could to help the people suffering from the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Dereck Momany and his team decided to organize a huge garage sale on the front lawn of the Perkins Red Wing location. A local rental shop donated a large tent, and the rest was up to the Red Wing team. Many associates brought quality items to be sold at the sale, and free cookies from the Perkins bakery were given out to anyone who made even the smallest donation. When all was said and done, the Perkins Red Wing team collected over $1,000 to help in the hurricane relief effort. Well done gang! In another attempt to help the Hurricane Katrina victims, Perkins Austin held a Red Cross Day on Wednesday, September 14th. Larry Eisenberg and his team decided to donate 100% of that days profits to the American Red Cross. After contacting the local newspaper and television station, word had spread all over town. The local television station even did three live reports directly on location. In addition to the proceeds from the days profits, fresh-baked Perkins cookies were given away to anyone who made a donation to the Red Cross. The event was a huge success, with the days revenues up over 250% from the previous Wednesday. When the final numbers were counted, Perkins Austin presented a check for $1,200 to the American Red Cross. Great job Perkins Austin!

Mitch Defines Whatever It Takes...

On occasion I am questioned about the meaning of our Companys Vision Statement, Whatever it takes for outrageous guest serviceYOU have the power. My response is usually that it is the act of over-delivering on guest service and exceeding our guests expectations at all levels. As we were preparing for our Annual Awards banquet we had the difficult task of selecting this years Heart and Soul winners and I had the pleasure of reviewing all of the many nominations that were submitted. This process reminded me that living our Vision Statement was something much more than effectively executing the mechanics of the tasks that we are charged with, it has much more to do with the attitude that we choose to maintain during the course of our jobs. Having the right attitude and going above and beyond reaps significant benefits for both TPI as well as the Associate involved. I have extracted some quotes from the many nominations we received that further aide in emphasizing my point about attitude: She is always positive, energetic, and has a smile on her face the entire time she is at work. On any given night you will find her interacting with guests, playing games with some of our younger guests, or handling a guest request with a smile. She is one of the special employees that come to work with the most upbeat, positive attitude, you will never see her without a smile. Each year he just wows us more than the year before and does more for the property than a handful of other employees put together. Her honesty and integrity should be on a training poster, for her actions and manners are very admirable. Her smile and great demeanor have helped capture many outrageous guest moments. continued on page fourteen...

Mitch Peterson President of Operations Torgerson Properties, Inc.

TPI Recognizes Its Top Performers

Twenty Different Properties Were Nominated For An Award At The 2005 TPI Awards Banquet
Heart of the House Top Gun Sales Achievement Outrageous Guest Service

In recognition of Outstanding Achievement in Cleanliness and Maintenance

Comfort Inn Fairmont Comfort Inn Willmar Staybridge Suites Maple Grove Green Mill Eagan Green Mill Shoreview Perkins Austin

In Recognition of Outstanding Achievement In Fiscal Performance

Hilton Garden Inn Eagan Holiday Inn New Ulm Staybridge Suites Naples Green Mill Willmar Perkins Austin Perkins Fairmont

In recognition of Outstanding Achievement in Revenue Maximization

Hampton Inn Maple Grove Holiday Inn Austin Holiday Inn Express Eagan Staybridge Suites Maple Grove Green Mill Eagan Green Mill Willmar Perkins Austin

In recognition of Your Outstanding Achievement in Outrageous Guest Service

Comfort Inn Fairmont Country Inn & Suites Willmar Days Inn Austin Perkins Austin Perkins Fairmont Torges Fairmont

Teamwork

Closer

First Impression

Property of the Year

In recognition of Outstanding Achievement in Team Attitude

Hampton Inn Shoreview Hilton Garden Inn Eagan Staybridge Suites Naples Green Mill Willmar Perkins Austin Torges Fairmont

In recognition of Achieving the Most Exceptional Overall Fourth Quarter Performance

Hampton Inn Shoreview Holiday Inn New Ulm Staybridge Suites Eagan Green Mill Willmar Perkins Austin Perkins Red Wing

In recognition of Maintaining the Best First Impression for our Guests

Hampton Inn Shoreview Hilton Garden Inn Eagan Staybridge Suites Naples Green Mill Eagan Green Mill Shoreview Perkins Austin

In recognition of Achieving the Most Exceptional Overall Performance

Hilton Garden Inn Eagan Holiday Inn New Ulm Staybridge Suites Maple Grove Green Mill Eagan Green Mill Willmar Perkins Austin

Torgerson Properties 2005 Hotel Awards

Staybridge Comfort Suites Inn Willmar Maple Grove Heart Sales Achievement of the House Award
In InRecognition Recognitionof Of Outstanding Achieving The Achievement Greatest Percentage in Cleanliness Of Growth and Maintenance In Revenue

Staybridge Hilton Garden Suites Inn Maple Eagan Grove SalesTop Achievement Gun Award
In InRecognition Recognitionof Of Outstanding Achieving The Achievement Greatest Percentage in Fiscal Of Growth Performance In Revenue

Staybridge Hampton Suites Inn Shoreview Maple Grove Sales Teamwork Achievement Award
In InRecognition Recognitionof Of Outstanding Achieving The Achievement Greatest Percentage in Team Of Growth Attitude In Revenue

Staybridge Hampton Suites Inn Shoreview Maple Grove Sales Achievement Closer Award
In Recognition In Recognition of Achieving Of Achieving the Most The Greatest Exceptional Overall Percentage Fourth Of Growth Quarter Performance In Revenue

Torgerson Properties 2005 Hotel Awards

Hampton Inn Maple Grove Sales Achievement Award

In Recognition Of Outstanding Achievement in Revenue Maximization

Comfort Inn Fairmont Outrageous Guest Service Award

In Recognition of Outstanding Achievement in Delivering Outrageous Guest Service

Hampton Inn Shoreview First Impression Award

In Recognition of Maintaining the Best First Impression for Our Guests

Staybridge Suites Maple Grove Property of the Year Award

In Recognition Of Achieving the Most Exceptional Overall Hotel Performance

Torgerson Properties 2005 Restaurant Awards

Staybridge Perkins Suites Austin Maple Grove Heart Sales Achievement of the House Award
In InRecognition Recognitionof Of Outstanding Achieving The Achievement Greatest Percentage in Cleanliness Of Growth and Maintenance In Revenue

Staybridge Perkins Suites Austin Maple Grove SalesTop Achievement Gun Award
In InRecognition Recognitionof Of Outstanding Achieving The Achievement Greatest Percentage in Fiscal Of Growth Performance In Revenue

Staybridge Torges Suites Fairmont Maple Grove Sales Teamwork Achievement Award
In InRecognition Recognitionof Of Outstanding Achieving The Achievement Greatest Percentage in Team Of Growth Attitude In Revenue

Staybridge Green Suites Mill Willmar Maple Grove Sales Achievement Closer Award
In Recognition In Recognition of Achieving Of Achieving the Most The Greatest Exceptional Overall Percentage Fourth Of Growth Quarter Performance In Revenue

Torgerson Properties 2005 Restaurant Awards

Green Mill Eagan/Perkins Austin Sales Achievement Award

In Recognition Of Outstanding Achievement in Revenue Maximization

Perkins Austin Outrageous Guest Service Award

In Recognition of Outstanding Achievement in Delivering Outrageous Guest Service

Green Mill Eagan First Impression Award

In Recognition of Maintaining the Best First Impression for Our Guests

Perkins Austin Property of the Year Award

In Recognition Of Achieving the Most Exceptional Overall Restaurant Performance

Travis' Take
As I was working the front desk on a Monday morning, fresh off ano ther so ld out weekend, a familiar man approached me. It was Jay Johnson, a manager I had worked for while I was a junior in high schoo l. Ironically that same employer was pursuing me to replace Jay at the same time that I chose to become the GM at CISW. Mr. Johnson recognized me immediately and we began talking about the past and present. During the conversation he asked me a very important question that relates to all of us in hospitality, "Why did you choose this field?" Each and everyone of us in hospitality have our own reasons, some may be very similar. Here is my response to that question. "Peo ple. I enjoy being around and talking to and listening to my guests and employees. This is my huge house with peo ple that I would like to consider family. You learn their likes, dislikes, what their hobbies are and more. When they are away from their home, this becomes their home. Parents share family stories, children draw and co lor pictures for me to hang in my office, and I ge t to see everyone, whe ther parent or child, grow as a person." That's the condensed version, but that is why I do what I do. We are truly blessed no t only to work in this industry, but also to mee t the peo ple we mee t along the way.

Dona Jungwirth Shows Us The Spirit Of Pride

Dona Jungwirth, from the Hampton Inn of Shoreview, recently was chosen a 2005 Hilton Spirit of Pride award winner. Hilton chooses the award winners through a nomination process. The Spirit of Pride award goes to those special few who continually bring home the gold by making a positive impact on their guests, teammates, hotel and community. The following is the nomination letter submitted by the Hampton Inn Shoreview to describe the impact Dona has had on their operation. Dona has made herself an integral part of the Hampton Inn team. Her job title is Preventative Maintenance, but you can find her filling in anywhere she is needed. She drives the van, fills in as Breakfast Host, helps in housekeeping and has even made it a point to learn how to answer the phones at the front desk! She loves all of the guests and makes a special point to learn their preferences so she can surprise them with something extra when she can. She has created special On the Run breakfast bags for some of our long-term guests looking for more variety, and even brought in veggie omelets for some guests who had special dietary needs. One week she covered as Breakfast Hostess while our regular hostess was on vacation. When I went back to check on her, I found her laughing and joking with the guests. It was a full house in the breakfast room that day and she had each and every one of those guests hanging on her every move. Donas upbeat attitude applies to staff as well as guests. She recently joined the CARE committee and has made a huge impact. She has great ideas and makes it a point to share all the details of each meeting with all of the staff throughout the hotel. Its easy to see what a valuable member of the Shoreview team Dona has become. Her spirit of pride has not only made her an invaluable asset, but she has set a great example for others to follow. Congratulations Dona, were lucky to have a person of your quality on the Torgerson Properties Team!

At Torgerson Properties...Attitude Is Everything!

The Torgerson Properties management philosophy states that A well-organized, motivated and enthusiastic management team, having accountability built into its system, will excel if it has the physical tools to work with and possesses the innate skills necessary to conduct their work. Torgerson Properties management prides itself with the quality of its associates and is relentlessly striving for their success as well as the companys success. Recently, Tom Torgerson received the following e-mail from a guest who had read about and experienced the TPI management philosophy first hand... As a traveler and a person who is devoted to helping customer service levels that exceed expectation, I was impressed as I spent time reading your web site. Few companies preach customer concern and then live it as well. I sense not only from my first nights stay, but from your web site, a real dedication to living your philosophy. Be proud of this, as your people are a sadly dying breed in todays market. However, I am sure that your success and future success will be based on and a result of this attitude. I will go out of my way to not only stay at your properties in the future, but also let my associates know of this unique opportunity. God Bless, Mike Henney

Extra! Extra! Read All About It... Country Inn & Suites Of Willmar Wins The North American New Property Of The Year Award!
Country Inn & Suites of Willmar is the proud recipient of the 2004 North American New Property of the Year Award. This award is presented to the property that most successfully entered the marketplace in the areas of development, construction and design compliance, opening training and organization, sales achievement and guest service. Country Inn & Suites of Willmar opened in the spring of 2004. Each of its fifty guest rooms offer free high-speed internet access, microwave, refrigerator, dry bar, coffee maker, iron and ironing board, hair dryer and a complimentary weekday morning newspaper. A complimentary continental breakfast and a large indoor water slide create a location that makes for a popular destination for travelers of all kinds. Congratulations to the entire Willmar Country Inn & Suites team on your successful first year and a well deserved honor.

Torgerson Properties Honors Its Heart And Soul

As mentioned in Tom Torgerson's message on page two, the heart and soul of our success comes from the hundreds of hourly associates that day in and day out do whatever it takes to make our guests feel special. It is in this spirit that Torgerson Properties presented the Heart and Soul Award at the 2005 awards banquet. After receiving dozens of nominations from TPI General Managers, six very special people were chosen as 2005 Heart and Soul Award finalists. These individuals were invited to attend the awards banquet and be honored for their outstanding performance. The 2005 Heart and Soul Award finalists were Andrea Balboa, Ade Dawodu, Karen Dion, Jerry Goblirsch, Dona Jungwirth and Mike Koch. It was almost impossible to narrow the finalists down to one, but in the end Andrea Balboa (hotel) and Karen Dion (restaurant) were chosen as the 2005 Heart and Soul Award recipients. All of us at Torgerson Properties salute these incredible associates for showing us what it takes to be the best. Congratulations gang, and thanks for doing whatever it takes!

Andrea Balboa

Ade Dawodu

Karen Dion

Jerry Goblirsch

Dona Jungwirth

Mike Koch

Whatever It Takes For Outrageous Guest Service...

An e-mail received at TPI Opinions.com concerning the Hilton Garden Inn of Eagan... My husband and I were recent guests for 6 nights at the Hilton Garden Inn of Eagan. We want to express our total appreciation of your staff and facility. We travel a lot around the US and oversees and have never seen a more friendly staff, especially Karen, Patty and Kari. All of the individuals at the front desk were wonderful, I just dont remember all of their names. They are just the most superior individuals we have ever seen and they made us feel so welcome and at home from the minute we walked in the door. It was unbelievable. They obviously know their jobs and do them so well. They just made us feel like family. Also, being a nurse for many years, I am always looking for cleanliness. In fact, I carry Clorox wipes with me into every hotel that we visit. I couldn't find any results on my Clorox wipes and the housekeeping staff seemed to be most helpful. The cookies and coffee in the evenings were so welcome too. We do want to thank you for such a wonderful visit, but mainly for the superb staff and especially for Karen, Patty and Kari. They are Great! Sincerely, Nancy and Bill Ritts

A letter received at the Hilton Garden Inn of Shoreview... Dear Sheila, I wanted to thank you and your staff for the wonderful accommodations that you have provided for this years Minnesota BLAST-off Conference. The genuine service, honest hospitality and caring touches have really energized and kept our learning environment focused and active. I have done many conferences before, and many in hotels much like yours. However, I have felt the most comfortable and most at home here with you and your staff in the Hilton Garden Inn of Shoreview. Being away from my home in Oregon, it is always nice to have that sense of community and have family present. You have not only fulfilled our needs as facilitators for the conference, but in our personal needs as well. Your staff has been very supportive, down to earth and realistic in meeting out needs. I believe that you should be congratulated for the hard work you execute on behalf of your patrons. Your work and sincerity has not gone unnoticed. Again, thank you for all that you have done for the Minnesota FFA Association and the National FFA Organization. Sincerely, J.D. Cant National FFA BLAST-off Trainer Raymond Smith National FFA BLAST-off Trainer

You have not only fulfilled our needs as facilitators for the conference, but in our personal needs as well

A letter received at the Hampton Inn of Maple Grove... On May 13th and 14th we enjoyed a stay at the Hampton Inn of Maple Grove. We had several families in our group who came to celebrate my grandsons baptism. The staff was very friendly and helpful. Everything was very neat and clean. The breakfast was wonderful, and the ladies did an awesome job of keeping everything spotless! Upon my return home, I noticed that I had forgotten my swimsuit cover-up. I remembered hanging it on the back of the bathroom door. My son, who lives in Maple Grove, called and then we actually forgot about it. This morning I remembered and called. I spoke with your Housekeeping Manager, Sherry. She was so pleasant and said that she would be happy to check and call me back. No more than fifteen minutes later, Sherry called to say that she had found it! I was extremely happy. I just wanted to let you know that you can be very proud of Sherry and your staff. They do an excellent job. We have stayed at the Hampton before and will definitely be visiting you again! Thank you for a great stay. Sincerely, Susan Dexheimer

...You Have The Power!

An e-mail received at the Hampton Inn of Maple Grove concerning Maintenance Engineer Jim We stayed at your location for three nights. The first afternoon the air conditioner quit around 4pm. Jim was called in to make the needed repairs. He performed various tests and troubleshooting and replaced the unit. That night the darn thing quit again. Later, Jim replaced the unit again. This time is worked fabulously. During this frustrating process Jim was very professional, upbeat and positive. His goal was to provide us a comfortable environment. He succeeded. It was a distinct pleasure to have met an individual of his caliber. Please let Jim know we appreciate his dedication to service. During the three night stay, all of your staff was a pleasure to associate with. They were friendly and willing to answer any questions we had. Thanks to a great group of people for a wonderful stay. Sincerely, Tom Bulthuis

An e-mail received at the Holiday Inn of Austin... I want to take this time to thank the Holiday Inn of Austin for making our State Baseball Tournament a fun experience at your hotel. The 15 AA Eastview Lightning team and parents were very impressed with all that the Holiday Inn had to offer us and our club. Thank you for making room for our ball club and families on such short notice. Everyone within our team complimented on how much fun they had at the Holiday Inn.. The Eastview Lightning will keep your hotel in mind the next time we are down around the Austin Community. Diane Bauler, 15AA Eastview Lightning Baseball

A Letter received by Hilton concerning the Hilton Garden Inn of Eagan... This letter is long overdue but well deserved. It is to praise the staff at the Hilton Garden Inn of Eagan. For over two years I have frequented this property when conducting business nearby. I am, perhaps, what some would consider a road warrior, having maintained Diamond VIP with Hilton brands and Gold/Platinum at other hotel brands for quite some time. Needless to say, I have spent many nights in hotels and have seen a variety of service levels. In my opinion, this Hilton Garden Inn is by FAR the best when it comes to treating me like a welcome and favored guest. They are the standard bearers! How refreshing to find such loyalty and dedication to excellence exhibited by Jasons staff. And not just towards me. I have observed this same level of treatment towards other guests...even one-time guests who are not Hhonors VIPs. Specifically, Patty, Kari and Karen (who are most often at the front desk or serving breakfast when I come down in the mornings) treat me as if I am more than a guest...almost as if I am a REALLY SPECIAL guest...like a brother, only better than family. That feels good. Others who are notable are Marcia (Director of Housekeeping) who has an insatiable desire for perfection and a charming personality. Ronnie (Assistant General Manager) who always has a warm smile and is willing to chat about whatever interests me. Dan, Adam, Elizabeth and Valerie (who are often at the front desk in the evenings) always have warm, friendly smiles, conservative banter and fresh cookies (my favorite part) and even remember which room is my favorite. All of these people display a radical do whatever it takes to make the customer happy attitude, something that is lacking in this world today - even in the sometimes inhospitable realm of the hospitality industry. Of all the hotels I have stayed, none compare in excellence of service like that displayed by the employees at this property. I dont know what Hilton or Torgerson does to recognize and reward such employees, but I hope you will make it something significant...make them feel as special as they always make me feel. I hope you will share this letter with them and with others who could learn from them. And do whatever it takes to keep them in your family! Thank you - all of you - for everything. Sincerely, Dan McMillan

Of all the hotels I have stayed, none compare in excellence of service like that displayed by the employees at this property

On The Move With TPI

Rhonda Schmidt recently completed her first year as Executive Housekeeper at the Staybridge Suites in Bloomington. Rhonda joined the Bloomington team in September of 2004, and has quickly proven herself to be a valuable asset. Thanks for all of your hard work Rhonda, were glad to have you on the Staybridge Suites Bloomington team!

Chris Anderson has joined the Holiday Inn Austin team as Assistant General Manager. Chris joins the Austin team from Amish Acres in Nappanee, Indiana. In Nappanee he worked in the box office and at the front desk as one of the main guest contacts. Prior to that he lived in Chicago where he dodged Cubs fans to and from various jobs, including the ComedySportz Theater. Chris graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls and enjoys reading, bicycling, running and keeping about a dozen house plants alive. Welcome aboard Chris!

The Holiday Inn Express of Golden Valley would like to introduce Dewey Simmons as their Executive Housekeeper. Dewey is no stranger to the service industry. He worked his way through the ranks at the Holiday Inn East and St. Paul River Centre. He came on board as an Assistant Executive Housekeeper, and one year later found himself managing the entire housekeeping department. Deweys drive for clean, comfortable and well-organized rooms is what keeps our customers coming back. Great job Dewey, and congratulations on your promotion.

The Staybridge Suites of Eagan would like to formally introduce our new Assistant General Manager, Jessica Shepard. Jessica was promoted from the Front Desk Supervisor at the Hampton Inn of Maple Grove in June. We are excited to have such a strong and proven leader on our team and we look forward to continued excellence in the ways of service and value for our corporate partners. Welcome to Eagan, Jessica. Were glad to have you on the team.

Janet Demuth is the new Assistant General Manager at the Staybridge Suites in Bloomington. Janet joins the Bloomington team from the Staybridge Suites in Eagan where she has worked since 2002. She began working in Eagan while completing her college internship and then held positions of Executive Housekeeper, Front Desk Supervisor and Assistant General Manager. Congratulations on your promotion Janet, and welcome to Bloomington!

A familiar name has joined the Austin team. Amy Eisenberg was chosen as General Manager at the Harvest Buffet in Austin. She began her position in September and brings a wealth of catering and management experience to the Austin team. Prior to returning to Austin, Amy and her husband Larry owned and operated their own restaurant and lounge in Connecticut. Before that, Amy has also operated her own catering business and loves to create fresh and new menu choices. Welcome to Torgerson Properties, Amy. Were glad to have your energy and experience at the Harvest Buffet.

Staybridge Suites Naples Just Did Something

Fundraising Event Generates Over $65,000 For The Victims Of Hurricane Katrina
Just hours after learning about the extent of destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina, Victoria Carter, General Manager at the Staybridge Suites in Naples, decided she needed to do something to help. Crying about the catastrophe wasnt enough. She decided to make some phone calls. One thing led to another and soon the wheels were in motion for a large-scale fundraising auction that could make an immediate impact on the people suffering from the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The slogan of the fundraising event event was Just Do Something, and do something they did! The auction offered over seventy items to bid on, including a seven-day trip for two couples to Majorca, Spain, an 18-foot ski boat, a 1984 Cadillac convertible and a pair of boxing gloves autographed by Muhammad Ali. In addition, businesses from all over the Naples area donated items such as food, beverages and t-shirts to make the event a huge success. After a whirlwind week of planning, the event took place on Sunday, September 11th. An estimated 400 people turned out at the Staybridge Suites to show their support for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. A $20 donation allowed those attending to enjoy free food provided by Vans Pig Stands and complimentary beer and wine provided by Otis Ts, the hotel chickee bar. The pool area may have been filled with music, laughter and the smells of barbecue, but the real purpose was to bring out the bucks...and that they did. The fundraiser generated over $65,000 which went directly to the Salvation Army for hurricane relief. Referring to the week-long sprint to organize the event, Carter said It was a busy but energizing effort, made possible by an outpouring from the community. Congratulations to the entire Staybridge Suites team and the many volunteers and contributors who lived the phrase Just Do Something.

This 18-foot boat was only one of over 70 items auctioned off at the Naples Hurricane Relief Auction. Other items included a seven-day trip for two couples to Majorca Spain, a 1984 Cadillac convertible, and a pair of boxing gloves signed by Muhammad Ali.

Crying about the destruction of Hurricane Katrina was not enough, and the people of Naples were determined to do something. Above are the many volunteers and organizers planning the Hurricane Relief Auction at the Staybridge Suites in Naples.

Martha Shaheed, whose uncle died in the 2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center, said, On a day like September 11th, its a day to do something Martha attended the event with her husband, one of the soldiers in the presentation of the colors.

With an estimated 400 people in attendance, the pool area at the Staybridge Suites may have been filled with music, laughter and the smells of barbecue, but the real purpose of the event was to generate funds for the Salvation Army hurricane relief effort.

New Ulm Hosts The 24th Annual Oktoberfest

Welcome to Oktoberfest! The City of Festivals, New Ulm, Minnesota, cranked up the accordions at the 24th annual Octoberfest, held October 7th & 8th and October 14th & 15th. Oktoberfest is a joint festival of the Holiday Inn New Ulm and the New Ulm Chamber of Commerce and is held during the first two weekends of each October. Its a celebration of New Ulms strong German heritage. Singers and bands from all over the world come together on stages held at the Holiday Inn on both Friday night and all day on Saturday each weekend. There is also downtown entertainment and shopping each Saturday afternoon.
The Holiday Inn and Ottos Restaurant spend nearly two weeks transforming the indoor Holidome recreation area into an entertainment stage with seating for 500 people.

After the transformation, singers and bands from all over the world converge on New Ulm in celebration of New Ulms German Heritage. Welcome to Oktoberfest!

The Holiday Inn and Ottos Restaurant spend nearly two weeks transforming the indoor Holidome recreation area into an entertainment stage with seating for up to 500 people. In addition, a second stage of entertainment and dancing fills the German Rivers banquet hall as well. Of course, it wouldnt be Oktoberfest without the authentic German cuisine. The Ottos chefs create a mouth-watering menu of bratwurst, landjaeger, spatzel, sauerkraut, German potato salad, apple strudel and German chocolate cake. And what would Oktoberfest be without some authentic German beer? You can find all of this at New Ulms authentic Oktoberfest. If you have the opportunity, please visit the Holiday Inn and Ottos restaurant of New Ulm and discover Germany in Minnesota.

...continued from page three, Mitch Defines Whatever It Takes Her energy and welcoming smile makes them know that she cares. She consistently goes out of her way for any guests needs and always has a smile and warm greeting for our customers. In the end its not just about performing our duties, but rather the attitude that we maintain while we do it that will determine whether or not we provide Outrageous Guest Service. These quotes describe associates that are the best of the best within TPI and clearly identify the X-Factor known as attitude. Its not just about what you do, but the way you go about it. Congratulations, and thank you, to ALL of this years TPI Heart and Soul nominees. You truly understand Outrageous Guest Service! P.S. Outrageous Guest Service does not have to stop outside the four walls of your buildingI would like to send kudos to the entire Staybridge Suites Naples team who recently raised in excess of $65,000 for the Hurricane Katrina relief effort (see page 13). Now those are the kind of results that can be created by an AWESOME TEAM ATTITUDE. Their effort was truly OUTRAGEOUS!!! Mitch

Hilton Garden Inn Of Bloomington Earns A Hat Trick

In hockey, scoring three goals is called a hat trick...well, the Hilton Garden Inn of Bloomington has earned a hat trick of their own. At the 20th Annual Bloomington Lodging and Meeting Expo, the Hilton team won the Mayors Choice Award, signifying three straight award-winning years. The theme chosen was a black tie event entitled Dancing With the Stars at the Hilton Garden Inn. Dancers dazzled the dance floor while Dave, Kerry, Barb and Loretta dressed in tuxedos. An invitation was extended to each of the over 600 corporate planners to visit the Hilton as a potential location for their future corporate meetings or lodging. Congratulations to the Bloomington team for continuing their tradition of excellence.

Ade Dawodu And Jace Ferrell Honored By Twin Cities Magazine

Ade Dawodu and Jace Ferrell of the Hilton Garden Inn of Shoreview were recently honored in the May 2005 edition of Rise Reporter magazine. The Rise Reporter is published for the friends of Rise, Inc., a nonprofit agency serving people who have disabilities and other barriers to housing and employment in the Twin Cities area. Both Ade and Jace have overcome hearing disabilities to become important parts of the Hilton Garden Inn team. Ade starts work at 5am to prepare the Hiltons breakfast buffet, and also cooks special orders for guests as requested. In addition to this and lunch banquet cooking, Ade also helps test recipes for special events. In 2003, Ade was named as a Spirit of Pride winner among all the worldwide Hilton hotel employees. Catering Manager Shelia Stuart says They say everyone is replaceable, but Ade is one employee I cant imagine doing without. Jace, who shared the Hilton Garden Inn Shoreview 2004 Employee of the Year award with Ade, takes exceptional pride in keeping the public spaces at the hotel clean and inviting for guests. He is responsible for maintaining the lobby, break rooms, swimming pool area, rest rooms and snack machine areas. I work very hard - Im one of the best cleaners here, Jace said. I want to work here for a long time.
Ade Dawodu, shown on the cover of Rise Reporter magazine, and Jace Ferrell were recognized for their outstanding work habits and contributions to the Hilton Garden Inn of Shoreview.

Congratulations to both Ade and Jace on their outstanding accomplishments and for overcoming their obstacles to show us all how to live and work.

The Maple Grove Grill Master

Staybridge Suites Lets The Guests Do The Cooking!
All summer long, the Staybridge Suites of Maple Grove holds a cook-out every other Wednesday for the hotel guests to enjoy during the Sundowner Social. Mr. James Kelley, the most frequent guest since the Maple Grove property opened in 2000, loves to be the Grill Master. He does a great job of cooking all of the hamburgers and hotdogs. Recently, he became an even better chef with the help of a newly-installed MagiCater stainless steel gas grill with 80,000 BTUs! Chief Maintenance Engineers daughter, Amanda, even made a personalized cooks apron for Mr. Kelley using his favorite symbols from Harley Davidson. With a personalized apron and 80,000 BTUs, he truly is the Grill Master. Sundowner Socials are served at the Staybridge Suites of Maple Grove from 5:30pm to 7:30pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with complimentary beer, wine, soft drinks and appetizers or a light meal. It provides a great opportunity for our guests to unwind and relax.

The Green Mill Eagan Mug Club Hits The Road

At the Green Mill Eagan, there is a very tight group of Mug Club members. They are super loyal guests that have been stopping in for quite some time. Recently, they decided to go to another TPI town and party all weekend...their first stop was New Ulm. They left Green Mill Eagan on a Saturday morning and boogied down to New Ulm. The group of about twelve toured the Shells Brewery, then checked into the Holiday Inn New Ulm and played all weekend. The group had such a great time traveling together and hanging out at Ottos that they had to try another TPI town! Well, the SPAM museum was at the top of everyones list, so Austin it was. The group visited the SPAM museum, then checked into the Holiday Inn Austin and had a blast. They loved Torges Live, went to Perkins and they did everything else you can think of in Austin. The Mug Club group has been talking about the wonderful time they had and the great properties they visited. They plan to do another TPI road trip soon. So, beware TPI, as you may be invaded by a really fun group of Green Mill Eagan Mug Club regulars!

...continued from page 1, Courtyard By Marriott Joins The Torgerson Properties Family Dennis is excited to have Patricia Friederichs as the Courtyards Kitchen Manager. Pat managed the Aviary restaurant in Rochester for twenty years and has additional experience at the Radisson Hotel, Henry Wellington, The Willows and the Covered Bridge. Pat grew up in Zumbrota, Minnesota and comes from a family of twelve kids. She is active in supporting youth sports and served as President of the Dodge County Youth Hockey program for two years. Gail Tostenson, a previous Torgerson Properties employee who was on the Holiday Inn Austin opening team, will be the Courtyards Director of Sales. Gail previously worked as an Account Executive for Southern Minnesota Broadcasting Company, and most recently as Regional Sales Manager for Three Eagles Communications. Gail lives in Byron with her husband Eric and daughters Kendra and Haley. The Tostenson family lived at the Holiday Inn of Austin for seven months while their home was being built, so Gail feels right at home in the hotel business. Assistant General Manager Brandon Rabe has extensive experience in the hotel industry. Before acting as the Front Desk Supervisor at the SpringHill Suites in Rochester, he also worked at a SpringHill Suites and a Courtyard by Marriott in Phoenix. His hobbies include golf, reading and fishing. Recently married, Brandon took off his Courtyard hard hat long enough to enjoy a honeymoon in Aruba. Tan and rested, Brandon will be putting in a lot of hours to make sure the Courtyard is running smoothly. Maintenance Manager Robert Boatright comes to the Courtyard from Oakwood Broadway Plaza. The Oakwood is a thirty-story high rise in Rochester where Robert supervised a staff of eight people. Roberts certification includes CPO, CPR, HVAC, ASE, and a second class A boiler license. Crystal Jorgenson will be joining the Courtyard management team as Executive Housekeeper. Crystals previous hotel experience includes positions as Night Auditor at the Holiday Inn City Centre and as Housekeeping Supervisor at the Rochester Marriott Hotel. Crystal lives in Wykoff, MN. Good luck to the entire Courtyard Rochester team. Were thrilled to have such a great team joining the Torgerson Properties family!

At Torgerson Properties, we believe in our associates...

Torgerson Properties, Inc. Waters Edge Professional Building 103 15th Avenue NW Suite 200 P.O. Box 1020 Willmar, MN 56201 Phone: 320-235-7207

Check us out, were on the web! www.torgersonproperties.com