Connect
April
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
Celebrating MAYC Volunteers
Wednesday, April 15, 11am
At the Mary Ann Young Center, we are proud to celebrate our volunteers and honor their incredible spirit of giving. Without our trusted volunteers, our programs and events would not be possible.
National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to recognize and thank volunteers who lend their time, talent, voice, and support to our amazing facility. All volunteer stories serve to inspire others to take action and realize the impact volunteering can have for others. The Mary Ann Young Center will be celebrating volunteers with tributes to the giving spirit.
Join us as we recognize MAYC volunteers who have contributed 20 hours or more of service. All are welcome to attend and show appreciation for these outstanding individuals and their generous commitment. Come help us say thank you and celebrate the difference our volunteers make every day!
The celebration begins at 11AM with live entertainment by the Minneapolis Aquatennial Senior Association. Lunch is served at 12PM.
Fast Friends Over the Love of Cowboy Hats
Sometimes, the simplest shared passions can spark the strongest connections — even something as timeless as a cowboy hat.
At the Mary Ann Young Center, Peter and Rick first struck up a conversation while admiring each other’s hats. What began as a friendly compliment about brim shapes and felt styles quickly turned into an animated exchange of stories — from the first cowboy hats they ever bought to the ones they proudly wore out on the town. Before long, the two and others in the area around them were laughing, reminiscing, and making plans to showcase their favorite hats at an upcoming gathering.
For many, a cowboy hat is more than just an accessory. It represents tradition, independence, rugged roots, and dreams carried through the years. In sharing what their hats meant to them, Peter and Rick discovered something even more meaningful: a sincere connection.
Their story is a reminder that connection can happen at any age. At the Mary Ann Young Center, older adults are encouraged to get involved, explore shared interests, and build lasting relationships. Whether it is over cowboy hats, card games, music, or morning coffee, MAYC is a place where common passions bring people together — and where strangers can quickly become fast friends.
Jewelry or Bingo Prize Donations
Needed
It is time to donate jewelry for the fall sale! Volunteers are ready to sort, clean, and price necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more. Ask family and friends if they have items they no longer need, one person’s discards are another’s treasures. Every donation makes a difference. Drop off jewelry or bingo prize donations at the MAYC, Monday–Friday, 8:30AM to 4PM. Thank you for supporting our senior groups!
Upcoming Trips & Travel
Masonic
Center –Birthday Candles
Thursday, April 16, 10:30am, $99
Enjoy a charming new play, recently on Broadway, that will warm your soul. Every year, Ernstine bakes a cake and celebrates with her family on her birthday – a delicious ritual that unfolds on stage across 90 years of birthdays. We meet Ernestine and the people who sweeten her life every year on this day as she grows from 17 to 107 years old. Lunch at the theater will be creamy chicken breast, served with roasted red potatoes, glazed carrots, coleslaw, dinner rolls, and assorted desserts.
Spring Winery Adventure
Tuesday, May 12, 9:45am, bus and return approximately 4:15pm, $99 Spend a wonderful spring afternoon listening to music, participating in wine tasting with lunch and dessert provided. We will arrive at Sovereign Winery about 11AM and spend a leisurely couple hours before departing at 3PM. Lunch choices are, a turkey bacon wrap, a chicken salad croissant, or a charcuterie ciabatta. All choices come with fruit, chips, dessert, and coffee.
Twins Game
Wednesday, June 3, 11am bus, $75 Cheer on our boys of summer, as the MN Twins take on the Chicago White Sox. Our seats are in section 204, along the first base line. We do have some accessible seats available, please let us know if you need to reserve an accessible seat. We will arrive around 11:45 for the 12:40 game, so you will have some time to explore before the game begins. Fee includes transportation and game ticket. Please note, Target Field is a cashless facility.
For more trip details, visit ISD12.ce.eleyo.com or call 763-792-6100 . For questions and to register, call 763-7869375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/ MAYCRegister
Program Spotlight
Tech Support 1:1
Monday, April 13, 20, and 27, 9:30am-1:15pm by appointment, free
Need help with your tablet, laptop, or phone? Register for a 45-minute one-on-one session with a techsavvy volunteer. Bring your device and a list of questions.
Creative Stamping
Thursdays, April 9, 10am, free
Come explore creative card-making and other paper projects using stamps. Perfect for beginners and anyone looking to expand their paper-craft skills.
Reader's Choice
Tuesday, April 14, 11am, free
Discuss the first book "West With Giraffes".
Wii Bowling - Spring League
Tuesday, March 31- May 26 and Tournament: June 2, 9am, 10am, $3
Join the fun and friendly competition whether you are a seasoned virtual pro or trying Wii Bowling for the first time, this league is perfect for all skill levels.
For more information and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Educational Programs
Understanding Pros and Cons of Long-Term Care Insurance
Wednesday, April 1, 10am, free
Salter Law LLC and guest speaker, Jennifer Tix of Thrivent Financial Services will be helping participants understand how it works and who it benefits from purchasing coverage. As healthcare costs continue to rise and life expectancy increases, planning for extended care needs has become a critical component of financial security.
Password Best Practices
Tuesday, April 7, 10am, free
Improve cybersecurity awareness and better protect sensitive information. In today’s digital world, passwords are the first line of defense against cyber threats. This practical and easy-to-follow course teaches participants how to create, manage, and protect strong passwords to safeguard personal and professional information. Participants will learn what makes a password secure, why common password habits put accounts at risk, and how cybercriminals exploit weak credentials. No technical background required.
Beyond the Tulip - Gardening with Bulbs
Monday, April 13, 6:30pm, free
Kaitlin Ryan is the horticulture supervisor for the Minneapolis Parks Department with several years in beautification in the area. Enter through door 2 or 7 for the evening garden speaker.
Early Film Treasures: 1896 - 1901
Wednesday, April 15, 10am, free
Join Eric Houston from North Metro TV to explore the birth of movies. See rare early films by Edison and the Lumiere brothers, learn how the industry began, and watch historic footage—including the real Annie Oakley!
Healthcare Directives and Power of
Thursday, April 16, 10am, free
Attorney
Protect your loved ones and plan for the future. Learn the basics of wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and get help in your planning for future medical and personal decisions. This presentation will outline how healthcare directives allow individuals to document their treatment preferences, and how power of attorney can be used to designate a trusted person to make decisions on their behalf about their finances if they are unable to do so themselves. Understanding these tools helps plan ahead to ensure that personal wishes are respected, reduces uncertainty for loved ones, and supports informed, confident decision-making during critical situations.
Planning With Purpose – Senior Housing
Wednesday, April 22, 10am, free
Do you know the questions to ask and what to look for when exploring senior living options? Join us for an informative seminar designed to bring clarity and confidence to one of life’s biggest transitions— knowing when and how to downsize and understanding the next steps in senior living. Join trusted Senior Care Advisor Josh Bremseth of Oasis Senior Advisor as he shares insight on what many families don’t realize until they’re already in crisis: the earlier you explore your options, the more control and choice you have. You will gain practical guidance, key financial considerations, and answers that ease stress and help you plan your housing options with confidence.
Plan Your Move - Understanding Your Home's Value
Thursday, April 23, 10am, free
With a combined 40 years of experience in real estate and market analysis, Renee and Jim bring a unique, data-driven approach to helping homeowners understand what truly drives property value. Together they will break down how home values are determined, what factors most influence price, and how to interpret market data like a pro. You will leave this seminar with clarity, confidence, and a roadmap for making the most of your largest investment.
Movie of the Month: Song Sung Blue
Thursday, April 23, 1pm, free
Based on a true Midwestern story, this film follows two down-on-their-luck musicians who form a joyful Neil Diamond tribute band called Lightning and Thunder, showing that it’s never too late to find love and follow your dreams. Starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson as a Milwaukee husband-and-wife duo, they navigate the roller coaster of life together—balancing family, multiple jobs, and their musical ambitions. Through soaring successes, creative challenges, and heartbreaking setbacks, their journey celebrates the power of love, partnership, and the pursuit of passion.
See this film on our large screen TV with overhead speakers. Popcorn served at a brief intermission. For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Wellness Programs
The Medicare Education Seminar
Tuesday, April 14, 6pm, free
Explore resources to learn what is right for you with Medicare Part A & B, Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage, Part D - Prescription Drug, and how to enroll.
Mindful Memory: Boosting Brain Health
Tuesday, April 14, 10am, free
Stay sharp with this fun, interactive class on memory and brain health with Ruth from Home Instead. Learn simple, science-backed strategies in a relaxed space where seniors can learn, laugh, and connect.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota
Thursday, April 23, 6pm, free
Get the Medicare answers you need and learn about Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota plans that can help fill gaps in coverage at a free, no obligation workshop. Reserve your spot today.
Aging in the Community Presentation
Friday, April 24, 10am, free
Learn how seniors can safely stay in their homes and community. This event explains the key differences between home care and home health services, helping families make informed care decisions.
Senior Safety and Wellness Fair
Thursday, May 7, 9am-3pm, $5
Join us at Fire Station #3 in Blaine at 11920 Ulysses Street NE for safety and wellness talks, local vendors, prizes, and afternoon entertainment. Refreshments served all day, lunch at noon. Registration is now open at 763-587-1863 or SBMFire.org/seniorsafetyfair.
For more information and questions, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYC
Featured Resources
ACCAP Chores and More - 763-783-4767
Help with minor home repairs, housekeeping and seasonal chores.
ACCAP Senior Outreach Worker - Lisa - 612-500-7031
Assistance with food support, housing, health care programs, energy assistance, and more.
Meals on Wheels - 763-236-8718
Delivers meals to individuals at home who are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals.
Metro Mobility - 651-602-1111
Shared ride public transportation service for certified riders who are unable to use regular fixed-route buses due to a disability or health condition. Trips are provided for any purpose.
Minnesota Aging Pathways - 1-800-333-2433
Link to senior services.
Resources and Brochures Available at the MAYC
A variety of community resources are available, covering topics such as home health care, senior housing, caregiving, grocery delivery, legal services, therapy, prescription assistance, and more. Materials are provided by local organizations and are not endorsed by MAYC staff.
For more information and questions, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYC
Upcoming MAYC Alerts and Celebrations
Nugget the Therapy Dog
Wednesday, April 8, 12:30pm, free Unwind and de-stress with a certified therapy dog. Just a few minutes can lower stress, ease blood pressure, and lift your mood. Come enjoy some calming, tail-wagging comfort!
Prize Wheel of Fortune
Thursday, April 9, 1pm, free
Enjoy fun puzzles, friendly competition, and exciting prizes. Whether you are a pro or just playing for fun, everyone’s welcome!
Show and Tell
Tuesday, April 21, 11am, free You are invited to come to listen to others or to share stories, memories, hobbies, and meaningful objects in a welcoming, social environment.
Karaoke Sing-Along –Neil Diamond and more!
Tuesday, April 28, 10:30am, free
Ready to sing your heart out? No experience needed—just bring the enthusiasm! Start with judge-free group songs, then jump in for solos or duets. Lyrics on screen, stage is yours—come for the music, stay for the fun!
Birthday Luncheon
Wednesday, April 29, 11am, free
Entertainment by Kevin Wegman starting at 11AM and lunch is served at 12PM.
Game Day
Thursday, April 30, 1pm, free
Recreational cornhole (bags) and Wii Bowling fun for all. Start to warm up or try it out at 12:30PM. The carefree fun games being at 1PM.
Advanced registration for birthday lunches is required. Call 763-786-9375, and please cancel if you cannot attend.
Thinking of You
Many well wishes for a speedy recovery to:
• Myra Selle
• Douglas Wold
• Micheal Earlson
• Melva Lachner
• Roger Earne
• Herold Grandprey
Our sympathy goes out to the families who recently experienced the loss of a loved one:
• Ted Erickson, survived by wife Marlys Erickson who both love cards and lunches at MAYC
April Activities Calendar
9:30AM Skating Fogerty
10AM Long-Tern Care Insurance
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
MAYC Meals
Meals are served at noon for a suggested donation of $5 for those age 60+ and $8 for those under age 60. Activities Schedule Dining Menu provided by VOA
10AM Learn Pinochle
10AM Basket Making
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Ukulele Jam Session
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
1:15PM Fitness Class
AARP Tax-Aide Appts
9AM Wii Bowling League 10AM Password Best Practices
10AM Learn 500 Cards
1PM Int 500 Cards
1:15PM Fitness Class 7PM Woodcarving Group
10AM Bus Trip
1PM Hand & Foot
1PM Mah Jongg 1PM Woodcarving Group
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, Carrots, Diced Pears, Dinner Roll/Butter, Vanilla Pudding w/ Whip Topping
9AM Senior Companion
10AM Caregivers Support Group
10AM Blaine Bicycle Club Meeting
9:30AM Skating Fogerty
11:15AM Legal Aid 1:1 Appts
12:30PM Therapy Dog Nugget Visits
1PM Hand & Foot
1PM Mah Jongg 1PM Woodcarving Group
8AM-4PM Foot Care 9AM Bridge Cards
10AM Line Dancing in Maple A/B
12PM Liver and Onions Luncheon
1PM Fun Wii Bowling
1:15PM Fitness Class 1:30PM Creative Corner
Shepherd’s Pie, Broccoli, Strawberry Applesauce, White Bread/Butter, Carnival Cookie
8:45AM Defensive Driving
9AM Bridge Cards 10AM Line Dancing 10AM Creative Stamping 1PM Prize Wheel of Fortune
1PM Fun Wii Bowling
1:15PM Fitness Class 1:30PM Creative Corner
9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards
10AM Ukulele Jam Session
1PM Blainbrook Bowling 1PM Int Cribbage 1PM Scrabble
Breaded Pollock with Lemon Dill Sauce, White Rice, Italian Blend Vegetables, Wheat Bread/Butter, Mandarin Oranges ALT: Breaded Chicken
9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards 10AM Ukulele Jam Session
1PM Blainbrook Bowling 1PM Int Cribbage 1PM Scrabble
Pulled Pork on a Hamburger Bun, Potato Wedges, Coleslaw, Chocolate Chip Cookie, BBQ Sauce Packet, Ketchup Packet ALT: Pulled Chicken
9:30AM-1:30PM Tech Lab Appts
10AM Learn Pinochle
12:30PM Beg Ukulele
1PM Blainebrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Ukulele Jam Session
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
1:15PM Fitness Class
6:30PM Garden Club
Speaker: Gardening with Bulbs
Chicken Chow Mein, Brown Rice, Stir Fry Vegetables, Chow Mein Noodles, Diced Pears, Blondie
9:30AM-1:30PM Tech Lab Appts
10AM Learn Pinochle
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Ukulele Jam Session
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Peas w Carrots, Dinner Roll/ Butter, Lemon Bar
AARP Tax-Aide Appts
9AM Wii Bowling League 10AM Boosting Brain Health
10AM Learn 500 Cards
11AM Reader's Choice
1PM Int 500 Cards
1:15PM Fitness Class
6PM Medicare Education Seminar
7PM Woodcarving Group
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, Corn, Strawberry Applesauce, Breadstick/Butter, Oatmeal Cookie
1:15PM Fitness Class 9AM Wii Bowling League
10AM Learn 500 Cards 11AM Show and Tell 1PM Int 500 Cards 1:15PM Fitness Class 7PM Woodcarving Group
Lasagna Cheese Roll Up in Tomato Basil Sauce, Side Salad w French Dressing Packet, Green Beans, Garlic Toast/Butter, Applesauce
9:30AM Skating Fogerty
10AM Early Film Treasures
11AM Aquatennial Entertainment
12PM Volunteer Luncheon
1PM Hand & Foot
1PM Mah Jongg
1PM Woodcarving Group
Spaghetti & Meatballs in Marinara Sauce, Green Beans, Side Salad w Ranch Dressing Packet, Breadstick/Butter, Apple Crisp
9:30AM Skating Fogerty
10AM Caregivers Support Group
10AM Senior Housing
1PM Hand & Foot
1PM Mah Jongg 1PM Woodcarving Group
8AM-4PM Foot Care 9AM Bridge 10AM Health Directives/ Power of Attorney
10AM Line Dancing 1PM Fun Wii Bowling
1:15PM Fitness Class 1:30PM Creative Corner
9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards
10AM Ukulele Jam Session
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Cribbage
1PM Scrabble
Chicken Stew, Quartered Sweet Potatoes w/ Brown Sugar, Brussel Sprout w/ Lemon Sauce, White Bread/ Butter, Tropical Fruit
9AM Bridge 10AM Plan Your Move
10AM Line Dancing 1PM Movie of the Month 1PM Fun Wii Bowling 1:15PM Fitness Class
1:30PM Creative Corner
Orzo Florentine, Carrots, Diced Peaches, Orange Jello w/ Whip Topping ALT: Chicken Kiev
9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards
10AM Aging in the Community 10AM Ukulele Jam Session 1PM Blainbrook Bowling 1PM Int Cribbage 1PM Scrabble
Baked Potato, Coleslaw, Cornbread/Butter, Brownie, Sour Cream Packet
9:30AM-1:30PM Tech Lab Appts
10AM Learn Pinochle
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Ukulele Jam Session
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
1:15PM Fitness Class
Chicken Wild rice Casserole, Carrots, Dinner Roll/Butter, Diced Pears
Cranberry Chicken Salad on Croissant, Creamy Vegetable Soup, Hot Spiced Pears, Coffee Cake Garlic Chicken, Basmati Rice, Broccoli, Fresh Banana
Flemish
Crab Stuffed Pollock,
Chili,
Glazed Ham, Scalloped Potatoes, Peas, Wheat Bread/ Butter, Banana ALT: Turkey Roast
Popcorn Chicken with Poultry Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, White Bread/Butter, Chocolate Chip Cookie
Hamburger with Swiss Cheese, Baked Beans, Mixed Vegetables, Pineapple Tidbits, Ketchup/Mustard Packets
Creamy Chicken and Vegetables over Egg Noodles, Broccoli, Diced Peaches, Sugar Cookie
Omelet, Cheesy Potatoes, English Muffin, Hot Sliced Apples, Jelly Packet Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Peas, Dinner Roll/Butter, Yellow Cake w/Chocolate Frosting