MAYC Connect - October 2023

Mary Ann Young Center

9150 Central Avenue NE Blaine, MN 55434

Contact MAYC Staff

763-786-9375

MAYC@BlaineMN.gov

Monday - Friday, 8:30AM to 4PM

Mission Statement

To enrich the lives of older adults by providing educational, recreation, nutritional, social, informational, and volunteer opportunities in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Stay Connected

Are you on our email and phone list? Call 763-786-9375 to make sure MAYC staff have your most recent contact information. Follow or like BlaineParksMN on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. BlaineMN.gov/MAYC

Octoberfest Week of Fun

Monday, October 16, 1pm

Prize/Nickel Bingo

Win a prize when you get your first bingo, thereafter, pass a prize to your neighbor until coverall, when you can win a second time. Nickel bingo will be played simultaneously with the collections in the cup going to the winner(s) each round.

Tuesday, October 17-1pm

500 Card Tournament

Register and pay $2 in advance for payback cash prizes awarded to the winners. Ice cream treats will be served at end of play.

Wednesday, October 18, noon

Liver and Onions, $5

This popular lunch includes liver and onions, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, a dinner roll and a cookie. It will be prepared on site and will likely sell out, so call early to register. Beef patty with mushroom gravy alternate must be ordered at time of registration.

Thursday, October 19-1pm

Cribbage Tournament Register with your partner in person and pay $4 per twosome in advance. Payback cash prizes awarded to winners at end of play, along with an ice cream treat. For more information and to register, visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Dynamic Duo Volunteers

Fran Tadych and Marcia McKee

People visiting the Mary Ann Young Center have often seen these two together. They met at the MAYC as volunteers and quickly developed a friendship that has lasted over many years. Looking back, Fran recalls first joining the MAYC in 2006 with encouragement from her husband Al, who at the time was a member of the woodcarving group. It happened that the day Fran entered the MAYC an activity meeting was in progress. Staff immediately asked Fran to join in, which she did. That was the start of her volunteer career at MAYC. She set up for large birthday parties and helped host card tournaments. Over the years, Fran has also helped with holiday parties, newsletter assembly, the jewelry sale, and evening dinners.

Marcia remembers first coming to the MAYC for lunch in 2009 when another senior invited her to attend. One of her first jobs was newsletter assembly, followed closely by helping to set up for birthday parties, as the attendance was getting large. In the beginning, Marcia was helping her kids with their pizza shop in the mornings until 12:30PM, and then driving straight to the MAYC to play cards at 1PM. She recalls attending more day trips back then through the MAYC and continues to enjoy the walking group.

Both Fran and Marcia attended the Bring a Youth Day event in August; Fran ran the coin drop game and Marcia was attending to seven of her great grandkids at the event! Marcia’s great granddaughter ran the plinko game. Both enjoy playing card games, and continue to volunteer regularly, often together. When asked what they enjoy most about volunteering their replies were: “Glad to be able to do this and that”, “Like to feel useful and needed”, “It’s a good feeling to do something that people appreciate”, “As we age, there is less and less we can do so this is a good way to get out and be with other people”. Thank you for your time and talent, your service and kind hearts are very much appreciated!

Pictured: Marcia McKee and Fran Tadych

Upcoming Outings and Tours

Ozark Country Jubilee

Treasure Island Event Center

Thursday, November 9, 10:30am-5pm, $99

This dynamic show salutes the music of the great legends of country music including bluegrass and gospel in addition to a variety of Christmas music. World-class fiddler, Doofus Doolittle will showcase his talent as well. Lunch menu: turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, dessert, and coffee or tea will be served prior to the show. Deadline to register is September 27.

Church Basement Ladies at Ames Center-Burnsville

Thursday, November 30, 10:45am-4:15pm, $94

The Looney Lutherans are back with a brand-new Christmas show, “I’m Dreaming of a Looney Christmas.”

Full of lots of family friendly music and comedy, including the smash hit "All I Want for Christmas are Some New False Teeth" and the game show, "What's in Your Stocking?" Don’t let the season go by without adding this trip to your holiday wish list. Price includes lunch of chicken breast, mashed potatoes, corn, coleslaw, a cookie, and coffee or lemonade, show ticket, and transportation. Registration deadline October 30, no refunds thereafter.

Bentleyville Holiday Lights

Duluth, Minnesota

Tuesday, November 28, 12:15-9:15pm

$68 to $88/call for details

Bentleyville invites guests to stroll under the glow of over five million lights in a 20-acre park situated on the shores of Lake Superior, while enjoying complimentary hot cocoa, cookies, popcorn, and roasted marshmallows!

Start the day with a visit to Hoops Brewing for a BBQ buffet dinner served by OMC Smokehouse which includes pork and brisket with sides. For $20, add a tour with tasting of: 3-5oz flight of the beer that’s on tap in the brewery and one 10oz beer of your choice from the entire tap list. After lunch walk Bentleyville’s spectacular light displays from 5-6:30PM. Food and toy donations are accepted. Register by November 17, no refunds thereafter.

For questions and to register call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Friday, November 17, 10am, $6

Are you looking to improve your diet but think it is too expensive to eat healthy? What does a healthy diet look like? Join Health and Wellness Consultant Heather Carpentier as she shares what a healthy diet looks like, strategies for eating on a healthy budget, and healthy eating guidelines.

To sign up, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Program Spotlights

Beginning Basket Making Classes

Mondays, October 2, 16, November 6, 20, 10am, $20

Frances Shirley has been conducting basket making classes for several years now at the MAYC. She is ready to offer classes again for beginners on specified Mondays this fall. The fee will include instruction, supplies, tools, and a completed basket to take home with you. Please bring a small, old towel. Advanced registration required, plan to attend all four sessions to complete your basket. Max 8 people.

Beginning/Refresher

Tuesdays in October, 10am

500 Cards

Are you interested in learning to play this fun but challenging card game? Volunteer leaders are available to teach you or offer tips for those who need a refresher. This game utilizes a joker and terms such as bids, bowers, trump, no trump, and the blind. Once you feel ready, participants can register to join the intermediate 500 card group at 1PM on Tuesdays.

Fall Watercolor Classes

Tuesdays, October 17, 24, 31, 1-3pm, $48

Join Rum River Art Center instructor, MaryLeah for this three week class. Students will learn fun techniques to create beautiful watercolor paintings. MaryLeah is a patient teacher and has a great understanding of how to help students learn how to paint. A sample painting is available for viewing at the MAYC. Ask staff if you would like to see the sample. Minimum class size: 5. Register in advance. Payment due at time of registration.

Open Acoustic Jam Session

Tuesday, October 17, November 21, December 19, 1-3pm

Musicians please bring music sheets, acoustic instruments, and your ideas to this casual monthly jam session. Contact leader Jim with questions at 612-581-2777

Registration for programs at the MAYC is required unless otherwise noted. To sign up, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Halloween Costume Party

Tuesday, October 31, 11am, $5

Wear a costume or fun accessories and be entered for door prize drawings! Lunch will be a dining favorite of spaghetti and meatballs, mixed vegetables, garlic toast, fruit, and Halloween pudding cup. There will be piped in Halloween music to add to the atmosphere, and light refreshments to complement the occasion. It promises to be a “spooktacular” time!

To register for lunch, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Movie of the Month: Book Club, the Next Chapter

Thursday, October 5, 1pm, Free

Legendary icons Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, and Mary Steenburgen reunite in this highly anticipated sequel as four best friends take their book club to the next level on a trip of a lifetime to Italy. Also starring Craig T. Nelson, Giancarlo Giannini, Andy Garcia, and Don Johnson. See this comedy on our large screen TV with overhead speakers. Rated PG-13. Popcorn served at a brief intermission.

Register in advance to attend. To sign up call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Musical Variety Show

Thursday, October 12, 1-3pm

$1 donation

Registration has begun. Enjoy a variety of music as performers showcase their talent. Donations collected at door will go to lucky performers randomly drawn. Register to perform by October 5.

Frances Shirley Instructor Basket Making

Woodcarving Ornament Fundraiser

October 10, 25, November 15, 29

Members of the North Metro Woodcarvers in addition to new and casual carvers will be displaying their woodcarving ornaments as a fundraiser for the MAYC from 9AM-Noon on October 10 and from 11AM1PM on the remaining dates. Stop by to see what the great work they do and consider purchasing a carving. Makes great gifts for birthdays and for holidays! Proceeds will go toward entertainment, activity supplies, and bingo prizes. MAYC woodcarvers meet on Tuesday evenings at 7PM and on Wednesdays at 1PM. New and seasoned carvers are always welcome! The North Metro Woodcarving Association meets from September through May on the second Sunday at 2PM at the MAYC.

To sign up, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Jewelry Sale

October 10, 8:30am-5pm

Call if you would like to volunteer to set up the day before the sale and/or help on the day of the sale. Spread the word to family, neighbors, and friends to attend the sale and expect to find great deals!

Landmark Tours Travel Show

Wednesday, October 18, 10am- noon

Come and learn about worry free travel to beautiful and entertaining destinations with a well renowned local tour company. A Landmark Tours representative will provide full itineraries with top notch accommodations and answer your questions as you peruse the exciting trip brochures available to you. Upon arrival at the airport, a Landmark Tours agent will take it from there so you can relax and fully enjoy your travel adventure. Register in advance to attend this presentation.

To sign up, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister.

Look out for Scams

Wednesday, November 1, 10:30am-12pm, free

It seems like scammers are everywhere these days. They are on your phone. They are on your computer. And they want your money. But don’t be afraid! North Metro TV’s Eric Houston is here to guide you through the world of phone and online scams. Learn easy ways to avoid scammers and what to do if you get a scam call, email, or text. Advanced registration required.

To sign up, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Featured Resources

Energy Assistance

Thursdays, October 19, and November 2, 1-3pm, free

Need help paying energy bills this winter? Lisa from ACCAP (Anoka County Community Action Program) is available to meet 1:1 with you to help you through the process. Please bring electric and gas bills and proof of all income for everyone in the household. If you received a prefilled application, bring that with you to your appointment. Blank applications will be on hand. Appointments are approximately 15 minutes each. Advanced registration recommended.

Free CaptionCall Closed Caption Phones

Demonstration: Thursday, October 26, 10:30am

Do you have difficulty hearing conversations on the phone? Help has arrived. Paul Kerr from CaptionCall, a program offered by the Americans with Disability Act, can help you get this special phone and have it installed in your home for free. Phones are easy to use and show what the caller is saying, in as large a font as you need, so that you don’t miss any important details when conversing on the phone. There is absolutely no cost for any services offered by CaptionCall. Installation is offered both remotely and in person. Contact Paul at 612-516-7810 or by email at: PKurr@captioncall.com to set up a time and date for instructions and installation at your convenience. Need more information? Paul will demonstrate the phones at the MAYC on Thursday, October 26 at 10:30AM. Register in advance to attend.

Defensive Driving Fall Dates

Thursdays October 12, November 9, December 7, 8:45am-1pm

A 10 percent discount on car insurance is available when you keep up to date by taking this course every three years. You must take the initial eight-hour class to be eligible for the four-hour refresher class, which is offered at the MAYC throughout the year. Current class fee is $25 per person payable at time of registration. Sponsored by the MN Highway Safety Research Center.

Living the Dream: Historic Homes of Minnesota

Friday, October 13, 10:30am-noon, $3

Take a virtual tour of Minnesota’s most elegant homes. Hear the stories about the personalities that surround many of these historic treasures. “If the walls could talk” will become reality in this interesting photo presentation. Doug Ohman with Pioneer Photography will bring this rich history to life in a fun and casual style.

To sign up, call 763-786-9375

Thank You

• To those who donated prizes for youth day bingo. Guests really appreciated the variety!

• To Karen Hess, Linda Kirkendahl, and Anita Ziebarth for prize donations.

• To volunteers helping with youth day, couldn’t do it without you.

• For miscellaneous donations of garden vegetables, books, puzzles, and yarn/thread.

• To Judy Fruth for the monetary donation to the MAYC.

Thinking of You

On the Mend

We wish you the best in your recovery:

• Ed Lashinski

• Catherine Lexvold

• Leo Loberg

• Jerry Schilling

• Barb Wood

Sympathy

Our sympathy goes out to the following families who recently experienced the loss of a loved one:

• Dan Baker, enjoyed playing pinochle on Monday afternoons at the MAYC.

• Jan Dols, beloved wife of Thursday bus driver, Dick Dols.

• Jean Isakson, loved socializing at senior dining and enjoyed riding the MAYC bus.

• Harriet Petersen, age 98, a member of the local garden club since 1966, former Master Gardener, and longtime participant of the Soil and Sunshine Garden Club.

• Paulette Rustad, former 500 card player and jewelry sale volunteer who had recently moved up north.

October Activities Calendar

Southern Breaded Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Country Gravy, Peas, Cornbread, Chefs Choice Cookie

Cheeseburger on Bun, Potato Wedges, Baked Beans, Apple Pie

Chicken Parmesan/Noodles, Carrots, Tropical Fruit, Garlic Breadstick, Butterscotch Pudding/Topping

Swedish Meatballs, Mashed Potatoes/Gravy, Green Beans, Dinner Roll, Pineapple Tidbits

Lemon Pepper Tilapia, Rice Pilaf, Scalloped Corn, Fruit, Dinner Roll, Lemon Bar, Tartar Sauce

Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes/Gravy, Carrots, Dinner Roll, Jello/Whipped Topping

Sweet & Sour Chicken, Fried Rice, Vegetable Egg Roll, Sweet & Sour Sauce, Mandarin Oranges, Sugar Cookie

Beef Lasagna, Side Salad/ Ranch Dressing, Mixed Veggies, Breadstick, 7 Layer Bar

Chicken Drumstick, BBQ Pkt, Potato Tots, Pineapple Coleslaw, Buttermilk Biscuit, Apple Crisp

Beef Chili, Baked Potato, Sour Cream, Broccoli, Dinner Roll, Pumpkin Spice Cupcake/Cream Cheese Frosting 9am

Beef Goulash, Whole Kernel Corn, Garlic Toast, Spiced Hot Peaches

Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, Carrots, Pears, Dinner Roll, Chef’s Choice Cookie

Liver & Onions, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Vegetable, Bread, Cookie, Alt: Beef Patty in Mushroom Gravy

Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes/ Gravy, Mixed Veggies, Dinner Roll, Chocolate Strawberry Pudding/Whipped Topping

Ham/Scalloped Potatoes, Peas and Carrots, Fruit, M.G. Bread, Blonde Brownie Alt: Chicken/Scalloped Potatoes

Chicken Kiev, Broccoli, Rice Pilaf, Dinner Roll, Chef’s Choice Cookie

Cheese Ravioli/Marinara Sauce, Mixed Veggies, Apple, Garlic Breadstick, Jello/Whipped Topping

Beef Pot Roast, Mashed Potatoes & Brown Gravy, Parslied Carrots, Dinner Roll, Chocolate Cream Pie

Roast Pork/Apple Cranberry Sauce, Green Beans, Banana, Wheat Bread, Fruited Pudding Tartlet ALT: Chicken Breast/ Apple Cranberry Sauce

Chicken Primavera, Italian Veggie Blend, Fruit, Garlic Toast, Blonde Brownie