Connect
March 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
March Madness Week of Fun
Monday, March 17 - Thursday, March 20
Join us for a fun week in the middle of March with activities all week long.
Prize/Nickel Bingo - Monday, March 17, 1pm Win a prize when you call 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 collection in the cup going to the winner(s) each round.
500 Card Tournament - Tuesday, March 18, 1pm Register and pay $2 in advance for payback cash prizes awarded to the winners. Ice cream treats will be served at end of play.
Cribbage Tournament - Thursday, March 20, 1pm 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.
A Perfect Score is Possible at MAYC
Congratulations to Jim Kuta who bowled a perfect 300 game during Wii Bowling at the Mary Ann Young Center. A triumph that he and only one other player are proud to have accomplished. When asked how to achieve a perfect score of 300 both players said it was pure luck and encouragement from their teammates that made it happen.
Many of the Wii Bowling players were drawn to the sport for companionship, laughter, and something to fill their social calendar. What they all came away with was good friends, great support, and a weekly activity they know will bring a smile to their faces. The coffee and sweet treats are also something that keeps them coming back. Many players have been participating in Wii Bowling for over ten years. The Wii Bowling group has encouraged many new players and has helped them learn the tricks of the sport. New players are always welcome. On Tuesdays at 11AM players are welcome to come try Wii Bowling and then join the league at the start of the next session.
Upcoming Trips & Travel
Festival Arts and Crafts Affair
Friday, April 4, 9:30am-4pm, $50
Enjoy a festive marketplace as you visit an award-winning arts and crafts festival! Featuring some of the nation’s most skilled artisans and crafters from all over the country, you’ll see them display and sell their American made, handcrafted creations. Many of these top-notch, selected exhibitors travel extensively and are only in our area once a year! From traditional to contemporary, this event showcases the finest selection of talents and innovative handcrafted works making these shows the ultimate pop up shops of the arts and crafts industry. There are food options on site, lunch is on your own. Plan to be at Canterbury Park from 11-2:30PM, price includes admission to the show and transportation.
Last Call!
Travel to Branson
April 21-25, 2025
Monday, April 21, 7AM Departure from the MAYC and Friday, April 25, 7PM
Return to the MAYC.
Chateau Winery
May 22, 9:45am-3pm, $99
Tour the Chateau Winery in St. Croix Falls, WI with us. We will first stop at the Lowell Inn, which was created by Elmer Lowell. Lunch be in the Garden Room and we will be served chicken ala king - tender pieces of chicken, mushrooms, red and green peppers in a sherry cream sauce served over a puff pastry shell, mashed potatoes, vegetable of the day, beverage, and a small dessert. After lunch we go to the Chateau Winery nestled in the rolling hills of St. Corix River Valley. We will divide into two groups for wine tasting and a tour of the production area and barrel room. We will explore the estate with a carriage house, stables, and floral gardens. You will be able to visit the gift shop and make purchases on your own. Registration includes transportation in a motor coach, guided tour, and lunch. Please note, standing and walking is required.
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 Tennessee accommodation will be at the Drury Inn, Nashville which includes a free hot breakfast and a free kickback 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. No refunds after June 19.
For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister.
Program Spotlights
Musical Variety Show
Thursday, April 10, 1pm
Are you a music performer? Consider joining these events to perform for our MAYC visitors. Interested performers should contact North Country Jamboree leader, Dan Fish at 612-804-2389 so that practices can be arranged prior to the events. Spectators should register in advance and a donation of $1 is suggested to attend.
Learn to Play Cards
All are welcome, those that are beginners or those needing a refresher
Pinochle - Mondays, 10am
500 - Tuesdays, 10am Cribbage, Fridays, 10am
Educational Programs
Owl Presentation
Tuesday, March 4, 10:30am, free
Meet a local bird nerd with a lot of bird information to share. Owls have been in the news a lot lately, with it being an irruptive year for a lot of rare owls coming down to Minnesota. View a colorful and informative PowerPoint presentation on all twelve owls in Minnesota and some photos taken from the wild. There will also be swag giveaways.
Caption Call Info Session
Thursday March 6, 10:30am, free
Interested in learning about CaptionCall? It provides a no cost captioning telephone and services for those affected by hearing loss and who have a need for captioning services. It is a federal program that is part of the Americans with Disabilities Act. In this presentation we will be demonstrating the phone and answering any questions you may have.
1:1 Tech Lab Assistance
Wednesday, 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 a 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 need to the appointment
DIY Antiques Appraisals
Wednesday, March 12, 10am, free
Learn how to appraise and research your antiques and heirlooms all by yourself in this great new class from North Metro TV's Eric Houston. Eric will show you how to use online resources like Google and eBay to find out just what you have and what it is worth. Students are encouraged to bring in one item from home to research with the rest of the class. Eric is not only a computer expert, but also a seasoned antiques buyer and seller and he is ready to share his tips with you!
Defensive Driving
Thursday, 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.
For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Movie of the Month: You're Cordially Invited
Thursday, March 27, 1pm, free
When two weddings are accidentally booked on the same day at the same venue, each bridal party is challenged with preserving their family’s special moment. In a hilarious battle of determination, the father of the bride (Will Ferrell) and sister of the other bride (Reese Witherspoon) chaotically go head-to-head as they stop at nothing to uphold an unforgettable celebration for their loved ones. 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
Line Dancing for Seniors
Thursdays, 10am-12pm, $5 donation
Learn basic line dance steps. Great for memory, exercise, and social time. Join in on Latin dances, waltzes, pop, and some country. This class is for beginners, and those trying to improve and looking for easier intermediate dances
Nutrition for Healthy Bones
Friday, March 7, 10am, free
Osteopenia and osteoporosis are major concerns as we age. There are many lifestyle and dietary changes you can make to assist your bones in staying strong. If you would like to learn more, join Health and Wellness Consultant Heather Carpentier, as she shares ways to keep your bones healthy and strong.
For questions and to register, call the MAYC at 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
MAYC Closed
Snow Days
The Mary Ann Young Center may close or suspend van pickups due to extreme winter weather where driving may be dangerous due to snow or icy conditions.
When in doubt visit BlaineParks.com/MAYC or sign up for MAYC Closure notifications.
The City of Blaine uses a system called CivicReady to send out emergency notifications. If MAYC needs to be unexpectedly closed, staff will use this system to send out notifications to everyone signed up to receive an alert. You will be able to receive the notification by phone call, text message, or email. You can also receive the notification all three ways at the same time. Signing up is simple and only takes a few minutes. How to Sign Up
• Visit BlaineMN.gov/CivicReadySignUp
• Click the Sign Up button
• Fill in all the required information
• Under the Alerts I Want To Receive section make sure that MAYC is checked
• Finish filling out the form and click Sign Me Up.
Please note that you may already be signed up in the CivicReady system, MAYC staff used this system extensively during the COVID-19 pandemic to communicate important information. If needed you can also update your information at BlaineMN.gov/CivicReadySignUp
Featured Resources
ACCAP Senior Outreach
Senior Outreach Workers help older adults age 60+ access services to live independently in their own homes or apartments. Referrals include financial programs, home services, fuel assistance, etc. Assistance with paperwork, forms, and applications available. This service is free. For more information, call 763-783-4741 or visit ACCAP.org/senior-services/outreach
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
Jubilee Musical Event
Thursday, March 6, 1pm
Spring Jubilee performance for you to enjoy classic country music led by Dan Fish and other accomplished artists.
Blaine Liver and Onions
Thursday, March 13, noon, $5
A fan favorite, this specialty luncheon consists of homemade liver and onions, mashed potatoes, vegetables, bread, and a cookie. The alternate entrée is a beef patty in mushroom gravy can be specified at the time of registration. Registration is in person or by phone: 763-786-9375. Call today, this luncheon is typically an early sell out.
St. Patrick’s Day
Monday, March 17, 11am
Wear green and celebrate in unique and fun ways with MAYC friends. The fun starts at 11AM and lunch is served at 12PM.
Monthly Birthday Luncheon
Wednesday, March 26, 11am
Sign up for lunch and fun with friends starting at 11AM with entertainment from Vinnie Rose.
Advanced registration required, call the MAYC staff at 763-786-9375
Thinking of You
Many well wishes for a speedy recovery to:
• Judy Fruth
• Larry McPeck
Our sympathy goes out to the families who recently experienced the loss of a loved one:
• Cyndy Koep-Larson, father passed away.
• Wayne Broman, love playing cards and survived by wife Bev.
• Paul Peterson, regular diner before moving from the area.
• Jack Canfield, in the band 4 Plus 1, entertained at MAYC for years at the annual Harvest Dinner.
March Activities Calendar
1pm
1pm
1pm
1:15
3
Stew
Biscuit/Butter, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Ham & Cheese Omelet, Tater Tots, Cinnamon Applesauce, English Muffin/Butter ALT: Cheese Omelet
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
9am-3pm AARP Tax Help
Country Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes & Country Gravy, Applesauce, Cornbread/Butter, Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheeseburger on
10am Beg Pinochle
10am Virtual Fitness
10:30am Sing Along
11am St. Patrick's Day Celebration
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
Lime Jello w Whip Topping
10am Basket Making
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 Pollock, Roasted Potatoes, Mixed Vegetables, Multigrain Bread/Butter,
9am-noon AARP Tax Help 9am
Turkey Cheeseburger on Bun, Wedge Potatoes, Mixed Vegetables, Pineapple Tidbits
Steak, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Peas, Garlic Toast/Butter, Blonde Brownie
Topping ALT: Lemon Pepper Chicken
Beef Patty
Herb Seasoned Chicken Thigh, Scalloped Potatoes, Italian Blend Vegetables, Dinner Roll/Butter, Fruit Cocktail
Beef Chili, Cheesy Potatoes, Broccoli, Cornbread/Butter, Banana Cheesecake Cup
9am-noon AARP Tax Help 9am Wii Bowling League 10am Beg 500 Cards 10am Virtual Fitness 11am Wii Bowling Open Play 1pm Int 500 Cards Tournament 1:15pm Fitness On-Site 7pm Woodcarving Group
Chicken Fajita Meat, Spanish Rice, Seasoned Pinto Beams, Corn, Flour Tortillas, Shredded Cheese, Mandarin Oranges
9:30am Skating Fogerty 11am Birthday Luncheon w/Entertainment by Vinnie Rose
Hand & Foot
Mahjong
Pork loin w Mushroom & Onion Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Dinner Roll/Butter, Diced Peaches ALT: Chicken Breast
Woodcarving Group 9:30am Bridge Cards 10am Line Dancing 10am Virtual Fitness 1:15pm Fitness On-Site 1:30-3:30pm Creative Corner
Wild rice Casserole, Peas w Pearl Onions, Banana, Wheat
9am Beg Ukulele
Beef
over White Rice, Winter Blend Vegetables, Diced Pears,
Salisbury
Lemon Pepper Tilapia, Rice Pilaf, Broccoli, Diced Peaches, Multigrain Bread/Butter, Vanilla Pudding w Whip
Corned Beef & Cabbage, Parsley Red Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Rey Bread/Butter,
Chicken
Bread/Butter, Brownie