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
December 2024
Celebrate the Holidays at the MAYC
Silver Ukes Luncheon, Wednesday, December 4, 11am, $5
Kick off the month with a concert from our very own ukulele players, who practice weekly and have put together a very special showing for the holidays. Sign-up today to see these local talents. This fun and lively entertainment begins at 11AM and is followed by a tasty lunch served at noon.
Santa Claus Parade by the SBM Fire Department, Wednesday, December 4, 2-2:30pm
SBM FIRE Department will be coordinating the annual Santa Parade tour with a stop at MAYC. They will be collecting non-perishable food items that will benefit the food shelves at Hope Church and Ralph Reeder. Join in on the fun and help our neighbors have food for the winter season.
Holiday Sing Along, Monday, December 9, 10:30am
Get into the holiday spirit with the joy of music. Sing songs of the season.
Advanced registration is required. Stop by the front desk or call 763-786-9375
Sign up soon as space is limited.
Award Winning MAYC Woodcarving
On Wednesday, November 27 at 11AM the work of our extraordinarily talented MAYC woodcarvers will be on full display with many beautiful handmade wooden ornaments for purchase for yourself, your friends, and your family this holiday season. All proceeds go to the Mary Ann Young Center. The holidays would not be complete without viewing these treasures.
The MAYC woodcarvers meet weekly during the day on Wednesdays at 1PM and in the evenings on Tuesdays at 7PM. The Metro Chapter of the Minnesota Woodcarvers Association meetings occur monthly on the second Sunday at 2PM. These gatherings all occur at the Mary Ann Young Center and are filled with great people learning from each other to master the art of woodcarving. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun. Hobbies provide seniors with an opportunity to socialize, a new experience, methods to improve physical health and relieve stress, a better sense of community, and a strong sense of purpose. It is important to engage in rewarding activities that enhance wellbeing, selfesteem, and individual satisfaction.
These hobbies can often extend to taking talents to the next level. The woodcarvers from the Mary Ann Young Center have shown their wood carvings at many different exhibits such as the Minnesota State Fair, county fairs, and the International Carving Congress receiving many awards for their special creations for over several decades.
Upcoming Trips & Travel
White Christmas Chanhassen Dinner Theatre
January 15, 10am-4:30pm, $109
This wholesome, uplifting musical will delight audiences of all ages. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas is the story of veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis who have a successful song-anddance career after World War II. They soon follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a lodge in Vermont, which happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander. Enjoy this dazzling score with featured songs “Blue Skies”, "I Love a Piano”, “How Deep is the Ocean” and of course “White Christmas “, to name a few. Lunch is included. Dessert and alcoholic beverages are on your own. Registration deadline is December 6. Travel to Branson
April 21-25, 2025
Hop on the bus to fun on Monday. Lunch in Des Moines is included. Overnight in Kansas City with dinner. By Tuesday you will be enjoying lunch in Branson and at the 2PM show, The Amazing Acrobats of Shanghai. The evening show is The Haygoods, with dinner before at Fall Creek. The next two nights are in Branson and breakfast is included. Wednesday morning shopping at Grand Village or Branson Landings. Lunch is on your own before the pre-show at Dolly Parton's Stampede. Then it is dinner and the actual show. There will be six shows in total. Thursday begins the trip home after the Grand Country Show at 10AM and lunch. Dinner in Kansas with a tour. Friday you will be home after lunch in Des Moines. Lunch Wednesday, and travel stops are on your own. Other meals are all included. Travel insurance is optional, and offered through USI Affinity. Call 1-855-874-0156 and use account number 50097. Single occupancy: $1,685. Double occupancy: $1,375 per person. First payment is half the cost, due at registration, the remaining balance due January 8. No refunds after January 8. For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Program Spotlights
Caregiver Support Group
Wednesdays, 2nd and 4th each month, 10am-12pm
Jill Thomas, coordinator of the Family Caregiver Connection of Anoka County, leads these support groups which invites those caring for an older adult to attend. This support group helps caregivers build support networks, provide comfort, and share information about caregiving issues. New friendships often develop from these meetings. Just knowing there are others having similar difficulties helps put life into perspective and can shed light on new approaches to caregiving.
LSS Senior Companion Program
Wednesdays, 2nd each month, 9-11am
Senior Companions are volunteers (age 55+) who are trained by Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota to support older adults in their area. Companions provide dependable transportation to activities, meaningful friendships, and the assistance older adults need to remain living as independently as possible. Volunteers provide weekly visits that keep older adults feeling well-both physically and emotionally. Benefits include a non-taxable stipend of $2.65 per hour (volunteer 10+ hours per week to qualify), travel reimbursement, insurance coverage during regular service hours, training, and more. To get started, call 1-888-205-3770, or to find out more, call Terry Hollingsworth at 651-310-9459
Advanced registration is required either in person or by calling 763-786-9375
Educational Programs
Christmas in Hollywood Film Clips
Tuesday, December 10, 10-11am, donations accepted
Celebrate the season with a look at some of the most beloved film classics. This class features movie clips, rare photos, and an insightful presentations from North Metro TV's Eric Houston. Find out which holiday classic premiered in the summer and who appeared in over 100 holiday movies.
Name That Town Journey – Doug Ohman from Pioneer Photography
Tuesday, January 14, 10:30am, free
Name that Town Journey throughout the State of Minnesota with photographer and storyteller Doug Ohman, as he explores towns and villages. This program focuses on the rich history of various locations and cities with fun and interesting stories relating to the town names.
For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Snow Days
Minnesota winters are on the way. Stay safe this winter. Get out the non-slip footwear. Go slow and choose your path wisely.
Pack safety items in your car, some items may include, but are not limited to, warm winter wear, an ice scraper, a blanket, snacks, water, jumper cables, salt/sand/kitty litter, a cell phone/charger, a first aid kit/tool kit, and/or a flashlight.
The Mary Ann Young Center will follow the Anoka-Hennepin School District determinations for closings. If the Anoka-Hennepin schools are closed for winter weather, then MAYC is closed.
Movie of the Month: A Sudden Case of Christmas
Tuesday, December 19, 11am, free
A heartwarming Christmas comedy for all. When learning of her parents plan to separate while on a family holiday to Italy, Christmas obsessed Claire hatches a plan with her grandfather (Danny DeVito) to get her parents back together. With mischief, chaos, and a Christmas celebration in August, Claire must use the festive magic of the holidays to reunite her family and avoid causing even more trouble. Can Christmas keep her family together?
See this Christmas comedy flick on our large screen TV with overhead speakers. Popcorn served at a brief intermission. Advanced registration is required, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister.
Wellness Programs
Senior Panel Education Seminar
Friday, November 22, 10-11am, free
This seminar is designed to touch on valuable insights into key topics that matter most during the retirement time of life. Start the conversation on senior living options, home care services, and estate planning. Explore choices for yourself or a loved one with expert advice that can help you make informed decisions. Learn from industry professionals and connect with others in the community. Bring any questions you may have for the Q&A after the talk. Refreshments provided.
Wii Games
Tuesdays, December 3 - 31, Open play 10:30-11:45am
Have fun with interactive Wii games on the large screen televisions. Try games such as bowling, tennis, boxing, and more.
MAYC Fun and Games
Ping Pong – Mondays, 3pm
Learn to Play Wii Sports - Thursday, December 5, 1pm
Get moving with some MAYC friends while you sharpen your mental acuity; improve reflexes, coordination, and balance; develop leg, arm, and core strength without overtaxing your joints; burn calories; keep your brain sharp by increasing blood flow; and possibly help prevent dementia.
Diet, Exercise, and Alzheimer’s, Is there a Connection?
Friday, January 10, 10am, free
Can eating specific foods, following a particular diet, or specific exercise help prevent, or delay dementia caused by Alzheimer’s Disease? Studies may suggest that what we eat, and lifestyle choices can affect the aging brain’s ability to think and remember. Join Health and Wellness consultant, Heather Carpentier, as she shares strategies that may be beneficial in the battle against Alzheimer’s Disease.
For questions and to register, call the MAYC at 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
MAYC Closed
Thanksgiving Holiday
Thursday, November 28 & Friday, November 29
Christmas Holiday Tuesday, December 24 & Wednesday, December 25
Featured Resources
Spring Lake Park High School Indoor Walking Club
Saturdays, 9am, free
New Year's Holiday Wednesday, January 1
It might be cold and icy outside so get indoors to walk this winter. After your 30–40-minute walk, enjoy some friendly company along with refreshments. Bring separate, comfortable walking shoes to put on indoors. Park in the lot located on the corner of 81st Avenue and Able Street: 1415 81st Avenue NE, SLP, MN 55432. Arrive by 9AM and enter through door #29. Sponsored by SLP Lions Club. Advanced registration preferred by calling the office at 763-600-5000 or enroll at https://springlakepark.ce.eleyo. com/course/1500/2024-2025-community-education-fall-catalogue/indoor-walking-club
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program
Tuesdays beginning February 6, 9am-noon by appointment
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide will be providing tax services to local community members. IRS certified volunteers will complete free income tax returns concentrating on low-income community members age 50+. All returns will be completed the same day. Start preparing for your appointments. The appointment scheduling line will open on weekdays from 8:30AM-4PM beginning Thursday, January 7. At that time, instructions regarding picking up required documents and what you need to bring to the appointment, will be given out. All forms in the packet that apply to you will need to be completed before you arrive on your scheduled appointment day.
Resources and Brochures Available at the MAYC
Looking for some local information on a topic of interest? There is a large variety of resources available on the display rack behind the front desk of the MAYC. Topics include but are not limited to home health care, senior housing guidebook, help with moving, caregiving, store to door grocery delivery, senior companion program, senior law project, outpatient therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, affordable prescription medication, and more. These resources are provided as a courtesy to local community organizations as possible reference material and are not specifically endorsed by MAYC staff.
For more information and questions, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYC
Upcoming MAYC Celebrations
Tree Decorating
Tuesday, December 3, 9:30am
Volunteers needed to help decorate four trees at MAYC. Please sign up in advance.
MAYC Silver Ukes Concert
Wednesday, December 4, 11am
Get out your holiday sweaters, hats, scarfs, and other gear to kick off the holiday season in style at MAYC.
Birthday Lunch
Wednesday, December 18, 11am
Celebrate December birthdays with entertainment by The Resistors, a two-piece band.
Noon Year's Eve
Tuesday, December 31, 11am
Toast to the new year, at a reasonable time of day with sparkling drinks and fanfare.
Hot Cocoa Day
Tuesday, January 7, 11am
Cozy up with friends and a warm cup of cocoa. Add special toppings while catching up with MAYC friends have the holidays.
PuzzlePalooza!
Thursday, January 9, 11am
Join the puzzle contest craze. Puzzler teams of three will take on MAYC friends in a contest of speed to complete a 300-piece puzzle in the shortest amount of time. Puzzle is provided. Put yourself to the test and win fun prizes.
Advanced registration required, call the MAYC staff at 763-786-9375
Thinking of You
Many well wishes for a speedy recovery to:
• Sharon Dirschel
• Tim Clancey
• Chris Martin
• Jan Morse
• Carole Richter
• Patty Sandin
Our sympathy goes out to the families who recently experienced the loss of a loved one:
• Marge Boerner, fun loving card player and frequent diner for many years
• Tom Dancik, loved car shows and lunch at MAYC
• Janet Davis, enjoyed activities and friends at the MAYC
• Don Fox, proceeded by wife Gloria, loved lunch with his MAYC friends
• Cindy Hill, wife of Ken Hill and member of the Wii bowling team
• Wally Jahn, father of Jeff, frequent diner for many years
• Merrill Olson, husband of Lois Olson and frequent diner
• Gloria Schultz, beloved sister in-law to Lori Schintgen
• William “Bill” Woods, survived by wife Gail, loved to play pool
December Activities Calendar
10am
12:30pm
1pm
1pm
1pm
1pm
1pm
1:15
3
10am Basket Making
10am Beg Pinochle
10am Virtual Fitness
10:30am Sing-along
12:30pm Beg Ukulele
1pm Bowling Blainbrook
1pm Int Pinochle
1pm Int Ukulele
1pm Nickel Bingo
1pm Pegs and Jokers
1:15pm Fitness On-Site
3pm Ping Pong
6:30pm Garden Club
Beef Goulash, Italian Blend Vegetables, White Bread/ Butter, Sliced Strawberries, Pound Cake w Whip Topping
10am Beg Pinochle
10am Virtual Fitness
12:30pm Beg Ukulele
1pm Bowling Blainbrook
1pm Int Pinochle
1pm Int Ukulele
1pm Nickle Bingo
1pm Pegs and Jokers
1:15pm Fitness On-Site
3pm Ping Pong
Breaded Chicken Drumstick, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Green Beans, Fruit Cocktail, Biscuit/Butter
Beef Lasagna, Mixed Vegetables, Side Salad w Italian Dressing, Breadstick/Butter, Apple Crisp
10am Beg 500 Cards 10am Film Clips: Christmas in Hollywood 10am Virtual Fitness 10:30am Open Play Wii 1pm Int 500 Cards 1:15pm Fitness On-Site 7pm Woodcarving Group 9am Senior Companion
9:30am Skating Fogerty
9:30am-1:30pm Tech Lab 10am Caregiver Support 11am Holiday Luncheon, Ent. Monroe Wright II
Hand & Foot
Woodcarving Group
Lemon Pepper Tilapia, Rice Pilaf, Broccoli, Mandarin Oranges, Dinner Roll/Butter, Blue Raspberry Jello w Whipped Topping ALT: Lemon Pepper Chicken
