Connect
January 2025
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
Winter Wonderland at the MAYC
Activities Happening the Week of January 13
It is a time to celebrate how wonderful winter can be at the Mary Ann Young Center. A toast to winter with all your MAYC friends.
Monday, January 13
1pm - Prize/Nickel Bingo
Tuesday, January 14
1pm - 500 Card Tournament
Tournament Registration Deadline: Friday, January 10, fee $2 per player.
Thursday, January 16 1pm - Cribbage Tournament
Advanced registration is required. Stop by the front desk or call 763-786-9375 Sign up soon as space is limited.
2025 is the Year of Line Dancing
Learn basic line dance steps. It is great for memory, exercise, and social time. The class hosted at MAYC on Thursday’s at 10AM includes Latin dances, waltzes, pop, and some country. This class is for beginners, for those trying to improve, and those looking for easier intermediate dances.
If you love to dance, but hate exercising, this is a great way to do both and have fun. Start dancing now as a great way to approach weight management, getting your energy back, and improving your memory. Line dancing is so good for your mind, remembering patterns and putting them to the music. Plus, you are laughing and having fun with others. Our doctors are always suggesting for seniors to get up and move. In addition, you will enjoy getting out of the house, socializing, and being active with others who enjoy what you do.
Our new line dancing instructor, Sandy Kruse has always liked doing the Electric Slide and Cupid Shuffle at weddings, but equated line dance to country music, thumbs in pockets, boots, and cowboy hats. Her best friend kept pestering her to join her dancing and she finally started going to line dance classes in 2013. The teacher, Sherri Busser, was a professional ballet dancer and competitive ballroom dancer. It was a real treat to learn to dance from such a skilled and helpful instructor. Instructors who teach you how to dance, not just the steps in the dance. This creates the best way to learn the proper dance techniques and have fun doing it. Sandy had breast cancer, two years ago and underwent 16 chemotherapy and 30 radiation treatments. She lost her hair, fingernails, and toenails, but during those seven months of treatments, she did not miss one dance class. The people she attended dance classes with, along with the dancing, are what got Sandy through this tough time. Sandy encourages anyone to give it a chance. It is really a lifesaver, and it just may become your new healthy obsession!
Upcoming Trips & Travel
Valentines Concert and Lunch
Sidekick Theatre
Friday, February 14, 10am-4:30pm, $99
In celebration of Valentine's Day, Sidekick Theatre in Bloomington, presents Just The Way You Are, an array of classic romantic songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Showcasing your favorite Sidekick Theatre musicians, expect an atmosphere of fun and romance! Lunch is served before the concert, and will be honey garlic chicken breast, cheesy potatoes, roasted broccoli & cauliflower, salad, a dinner roll, dessert, coffee, and hot tea.
Travel to Branson April 21-25, 2025
Overnight in Kansas City then by Tuesday you will be enjoying lunch in Branson and The Amazing Acrobats of Shanghai. The Tuesday evening show is The Haygoods. Wednesday morning shopping and lunch are on your own before the pre-show at Dolly Parton's Stampede. Then it is dinner and the show. Thursday begins the trip home after the Grand Country Show at 10AM and lunch. Friday you will be home after lunch in Des Moines. Lunch Wednesday and travel stops are on your own. Travel insurance is optional, and offered through USI Affinity. Call 1-855874-0156 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.
Travel to Nashville
September 20-27, 2025
Grab your friends as we head to Nashville. Overnight at the Drury Inn St. Louis with a visit to the Gateway Arch. Our accommodation will be at the Drury Inn Nashville which includes a free hot breakfast and a free kick back happy hour, daily. Highlights include; a guided tour of the Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame, Belle Meade Historic Site, Andrew Jackson Hermitage museum, Opryland hotel, and the General Jackson showboat. Depart Nashville Friday morning. Night in Hannibal MO, on the return.
Double Room Occupancy: $2,189 per person with a $449 initial deposit and monthly payments of $435 for March-June.
Single Room Occupancy: $3,204 with a $644 initial deposit and monthly payments of $640 for March-June. A refund request will incur a $50 fee, per person. No refunds after June 19. Travel insurance: mytravelinsure.com/isd12 or 855-874-0156, account #50097.
Bus will depart from and return to Centennial Community Education in Circle Pines.
For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Program Spotlights
Wii Bowling League
Winter
League
Tuesdays, January 7- March 18, 9-11am, $3
Spring League
Tuesday, April 1- June 3, 9-11am, $3
Laugh and have some fun with interactive Wii bowling on the large screen televisions. Play two games a week, for eight weeks followed by a banquet and tournament. Register in advanced to secure a time slot.
Wii Bowling Open Play
Tuesdays, Dec 3- March 18, 11am, free
After league play concludes on Tuesdays, have fun with others during pick-up Wii bowling games. Advanced registration is required either in person or by calling 763-786-9375
Educational Programs
Defensive Driving
Thursday, January 9, February 6, March 13, April 10, 9am-1pm, $25
Four-hour driving classes will be held on specified Thursdays. Register early, as classes fill quickly. Led by a Precision Driving Center of Minnesota instructor. Those completing the course requirements will receive a certificate for 10 percent off car insurance for three years.
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.
1:1 Tech Lab Assistance
Wednesday, January 15, February 12, March 12, 9:30am-1:15pm, free
Need some electronic device help? Amy can help. She is a knowledgeable volunteer who will help you navigate your tablet, laptop, or cell phone. Register for 45-minute one-on-one session. Indicate the specific device you need assistance with when registering. Bring your device and the list of questions or assistance you needed to the appointment.
Estate Planning
Thursday, January 23, 10am, free
Learn the six primary concerns people tend to have with estate planning: avoiding probate, unexpected incapacity (Alzheimer's, etc.), nursing home stay or Medicaid spend down, out living your income, protection from stock market risk or lose, and paying unnecessary taxes (social security, income, estate, etc.). In addition, learn the alternatives to probate: joint tenancy, beneficiary designations, giving it all away, and a revocable living trust.
Look out for Scams!
Wednesday, January 29, 10am, free
It seems like scammers are everywhere these days. They’re on your phone. They’re 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. He will tell you some easy ways to avoid scammers and what to do if you get a scam call, email, or text. Eric will even bring plenty of real-world examples to help you learn how to tell a real call or email from a scam.
Rum River Art Class – Watercolor
Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 18, 1-3pm, $25
Gather with friends this winter for a fun learning experience. This relaxing three week watercolor class will teach many techniques, help you build painting skills, and get inspired to create by a variety of subject matter. All levels of experience welcome and all materials provided. Join us for all the fun!
For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Movie of the Month: Here
Thursday, January 23, 1pm, free
Here is a generational story about families and the special place they inhabit, sharing in love, loss, laughter, and life. The American drama covers the events of a single spot of land and its inhabitants, spanning from the distant past to the 21st century. During the film, the screen is often subdivided into multiple panes, presenting events from different time periods simultaneously. The film stars Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Paul Bettany, and Kelly Reilly, with digital de-aging being used on much of the cast to have them portray their characters over the course of the different time periods.
See this 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
Spring Lake Park High School Indoor Walking Club
Saturdays, 9am, free
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 BlaineMN.gov/SLPWalkingClub
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
Landmark Tours Travel Show
Tuesday, January 21, 1pm, free
Fly the friendly skies with Landmark Tours, a great, local, family-owned company. Leave your worries behind as you explore beautiful, entertaining destinations. A Landmark Tours representative will meet you at the airport and take it from there. Enjoy 4-5 star accommodations, many included quality meals, and breathtaking sights and sounds. Learn what trips are coming up as you peruse the full color brochures and get your questions answered at this informational session.
For questions and to register, call the MAYC at 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
MAYC Closed
New Year's Day
Wednesday, January 1
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Monday, January 20
Snow Days
In the unlikely event there are local school closings the Mary Ann Young Center will be closed as well.
Featured Resources
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 be open on weekdays from 8:30AM-4PM beginning Tuesday, 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.
Legal Aid
Tuesdays, January 7, February 4, March 4, 11:15am-12:45pm, free
Need answers to legal questions? Mid MN Legal Aid has in person appointments that are half hour in length. Specify your general topic of interest at the time of registration. Appointments are confidential.
Resources and Brochures Available at the MAYC
Looking for some local information on a topic of interest? There are 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
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.
Monthly Birthday Luncheon
Wednesday, January 29, 11am
Celebrate birthdays with MAYC friends each month. Entertainment starts at 11AM, lunch is served at 12PM, and 1PM finishes out the afternoon with prize bingo. Advanced registration is required ten days in advanced. Let us know if it is your birthday month at the time of registration. Entertainment by Kevin Wegman.
Advanced registration required, call the MAYC staff at 763-786-9375
Thinking of You
Many well wishes for a speedy recovery to:
• Wayne Bromen
• Geri Hieb
• Chris Martin
Our sympathy goes out to the families who recently experienced the loss of a loved one:
• Frane Leisdon, enjoyed her MAYC friends
• Cletus Stifter, fun loving card player
• Marlene Tabatt, loved lunch at MAYC
January Activities Calendar
Activities Schedule
Dining Menu provided by VOA
2nd Sunday of the month, 2-4pm North Metro Woodcarving Association Meetings
MAYC Programming
Advanced registration is required, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Virtual/Provider Programming
Contact provider to register for programming. Programs not held at MAYC.
MAYC Meals
Meals are served at noon for a suggested donation of $5 for those age 60+ and $8 for those under age.
10am
11:15am
12:30pm
1pm
1pm
1pm
1pm
1pm
1:15
Dijon Pork Loin, Au Gratin Potatoes, Broccoli, Wheat Bread/Butter, Pumpkin Bar w Cream Cheese Frosting ALT: Dijon Chicken Breast
Chicken, Fried
Tater Tot Hotdish, Broccoli, Strawberry Applesauce, White Bread/Butter, Strawberry Cream Pie Cheesy Ham & Hashbrown Casserole, Corn Pineapple Tidbits, White Bread/Butter, Chef’s Choice Cookie ALT: Cheesy Chicken & Hashbrown Casserole Beef Lasagna, Green Beans, Side Salad w Ranch Dressing, Diced Peaches, Garlic Toast/ Butter, Parmesan Cheese Packet Chicken Wild rice Casserole, Peas w Pearl Onions, Wheat Bread/Butter, Banana, Brownie
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 Prize & Nickel Bingo
1pm Pegs and Jokers
1:15pm Fitness On-Site
3pm Ping Pong
6:30pm Garden Club
Breaded Pollock, Roasted Potatoes, Mixed Vegetables, Multigrain Bread/Butter, Strawberry Jello Cake, Tater Sauce Packet ALT: Chicken Breast
9am Wii Bowling League
9:30am Skating Fogerty
9:30am Bridge Cards
Woodcarving Group
Cheeseburger on Bun, Potato Wedges, Tropical Fruit Salad, Chef’s Choice Cookie, Ketchup/Mustard Packets
MAYC Closed in Observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday 9am Wii Bowling League
10am Beg 500 Cards 10am Virtual Fitness 11am Wii Bowling Open Play 1pm Int 500 Cards Tournament
1pm Landmark Tours
1:15pm Fitness On-Site
Beef Chili, Cheesy Potatoes, Broccoli, Corn Bread/Butter, Banana Cheesecake Cup, Sour Cream Packet
Pork loin in Mushroom & Onion Gravy, Roasted Potatoes, Green Beans, Diced Peaches, Dinner Roll/Butter ALT: Chicken Breast
30am Bridge Cards
Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry, White Rice, Stir Fry Vegetables, Egg Roll, Mandarin Oranges, Lemon Pudding w Whip Topping, Sweet & Sour Packets
9am Beg Ukulele 9-11am Billiards 10am Beg Cribbage 10am Int Ukulele 1pm Bowling Blainbrook 1pm Int Cribbage 1pm Scrabble
Meatloaf w Ketchup Glaze, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Winter Blend Vegetables, Diced Pears, Dinner Roll/Butter
Orange
Rice, Stir Fry Vegetables, Pineapple Tidbits, Dinner Roll/Butter, Lemon Bar
Diced Peaches, Vanilla Pudding w Whip