Connect
December 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
MAYC Holiday Music Celebrations
Join us this December for joyful celebrations filled with festive tunes, warm drinks, and good company. All are welcome, so put on your favorite holiday sweater and round up all of your friends so we can turn up the holiday spirit spreading the joy of the season the best way we know how—with music! Let us make this season merry and musical together at the Mary Ann Young Center. There is something for everyone. Enjoy classic holiday favorites and other toe tapping tunes performed live, sing along with friends, and get into the spirit of the season. Sign up for VOA lunch in advance as spaces are limited. Seating will be available for all music performances. Light refreshments will be served. Holiday cheer is guaranteed!
Hand Bell Choir Genesis Ringers
Monday, December 8, 11am
Mingle Jingle with the Silver Ukes and Santa Claus Wednesday, December 10, 11am
Kent’s Christmastide Concert Thursday, December 18, 1pm
A Perfect Hand and Plenty of Fun
A perfect cribbage score was one for the record books! Among the friendly competition and laughter, two longtime center volunteers Cheryl and Carol achieved a perfect partner hand during the last tournament, an extremely rare feat in the game. Both ladies are well known around the Mary Ann Young Center for their generous spirit and volunteerism, and their success at the cribbage table made the day even more special. Beyond the impressive scores, the event was filled with camaraderie and good humor.
New players mixed with seasoned pros, learning tips, sharing stories, and enjoying the fast-paced fun that cribbage offers. Whether you are a lifelong player or just curious about the game, cribbage welcomes everyone. Cribbage is easy to learn, full of friendly strategy, and a great way to connect with others—so grab a board, a deck of cards, and come play on Fridays at 1PM or sign up for the January Cribbage Tournament on Thursday, January 15. With a bit of luck and a few clever plays, you might even find yourself holding that perfect hand!
Changes to MAYC Newsletter Mail Services
Starting January 1, 2026
Starting January 1, 2026, the MAYCConnect newsletter mail service will be limited to Blaine residents only. If you live outside of Blaine, we invite you to stay connected by stopping by the MAYC for a newsletter or by signing up for our email notifications instead. This change helps us manage resources while still keeping everyone informed about our events, programs, and updates.
To sign up for email notifications, please stop by the front desk or call us at 763-786-9375 for assistance or sign up for notifications online by visiting BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe, choose News: MAYC
The latest newsletter can also be found at BlaineMN.gov/MAYCNewsletter
Thank you for your understanding and continued support!
Upcoming Trips & Travel
Mackinac Island Trip
Monday, May 18, 6:45amFriday, May 22, 2026, early evening
$1499/person double room and $2155/person single room
Final payments due March 6, 2026
Monday travel with rest stops and boat ride for lunch included, overnight will be in Ludington, MI. Tuesday travel to Mackinaw City to take the ferry to Mackinac Island, overnight on the island at the Lakeview Hotel. Wednesday travel with a horse drawn carriage ride, then have time on your own to explore and lunch is included at the Grand Hotel. Thursday travel begins with departure from the island and head for St. Ignace, lunch is included with an overnight in Green Bay at the Oneida Casino. Friday travel with a tour of Lambeau Field before having lunch and return travel home expected early evening.
For more trip details, visit ISD12.ce.eleyo.com or call 763-792-6100. For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Program Spotlight
Caregiver Support Group
Wednesdays, 2nd and 4th each month, 10am-noon
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
Wednesday, 2nd each month, 9-11am
Senior Companions are volunteers (age 55+) who are trained by Lutheran Social Services of MN 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
For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister
Santa Food Shelf Collection
Drop off prior to Tuesday, December 2
Clean out your pantry or pick up some non-perishable food items for those in need to find food options at our local food pantries. Santa will pick up all of the donations and provide candy canes for those on site. Stay tuned for the time and location of Santa’s visit.
Educational Programs
Declutter to Dollars: A Beginner’s Guide to Selling Online
Thursday, December 4, 10am, free
Join Caring Transitions for an engaging session on how to turn your unwanted items into extra cash! Discover simple, step-by-step strategies for selling online with ease and confidence. This informative workshop is perfect for seniors looking to downsize, declutter their homes, and make the most of items they no longer need. Learn practical tips for identifying valuable pieces, choosing the right selling platforms, and presenting your items to attract buyers—all while having fun and staying organized through the process.
Rudolph, Snoopy, and the Grinch: TV’s Greatest Christmas Specials
Wednesday, December 10, 10am, free
Get ready to spend an hour exploring the ins and outs of TV’s greatest Christmas specials with NMTV Studio Manager Eric Houston. For many of us, the holiday season is not complete without viewing our favorite Christmas specials. You’ve seen them dozens of times, but now is your chance to find out how they were made! You will learn which monster movie star provided the voice of a Christmas icon, which special was the first to use actual children as actors, and just what a Bumble really is. Join us for this trip down memory lane, featuring visions of sugarplums and nine, tiny reindeer.
For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister.
Movie of the Month: The Holdovers
Thursday, December 11, 1pm, free
The epitome of a feel-good Christmas movie with great heart, humor, and an aesthetic sense so well-cultivated you will feel like you have walked into the year 1970. Forced to spend Christmas break at school, a curmudgeonly instructor at a New England prep school remains on campus during Christmas break to babysit a handful of students with nowhere to go. He soon forms an unlikely bond with a brainy but damaged troublemaker, and with the school's head cook, a woman who just lost a son in the Vietnam War. 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
MAYC Jewelry Gems Celebration and Get-Together!
This year’s jewelry sale was the best ever and we need to celebrate all of your efforts. If you donated jewels or your time during the sale you are invited to a sparkling afternoon of style, stories, and socializing. Wear your new jewelry you may have picked up at the sale so we can admire those beautiful pieces, share the stories behind our favorite gems, and enjoy light refreshments in great company.
Let’s celebrate your sparkle! Join us Tuesday, December 9 at 2PM in Tom Ryan B to celebrate this year’s success.
In 2026, the jewelry group would like to meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 2PM in the conference room.
Wellness Programs
Medicare Education Seminars
Tuesday, December 2, 6pm, or Thursday, December 4, 11am, free
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the primary time for people with Medicare to make changes to their coverage, such as joining, dropping, or switching. Any changes made during AEP take effect on January 1 of the following year. Explore resources to learn what is right for you.
• Medicare 101 - Part A & Part B
• Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage
Aging with Strength and Stability
Wednesday, December 17, 10am, free
• Part D - Prescription Drug
• How To Enroll
Comfort Keepers presents tips for aging well—stay active, confident, and independent. Learn exercises and strategies to improve strength, balance, and mobility while reducing fall risk.
Medicare Counseling In-Person Appointments
Wednesday, December 3, 10am, 11:15am, and 12:30pm, free
Medicare questions answered in a one on one in-person appointment. Make an appointment by calling 1-800-333-2433 or online at TrellisConnects.org/get-help/medicare/. Indicate that you wish to meet at the Mary Ann Young Center.
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
Provides meals to individuals at home who are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals.
Metro Mobility, 651-602-1111
Metro Micro, 651-602-1170
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
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 courtesy reference materials from local community organizations and are not specifically endorsed by MAYC staff.
For more information and questions, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYC
Upcoming MAYC Alerts and Celebrations
Deck the Halls
Tuesday, December 2, 10am
Help MAYC make the season bright! Join us for lights, music, cocoa, treats, and festive fun!
Wheel of Fortune
Thursday, December 4, 1pm, free
Come for laughs, stay for friendly competition, and enjoy themed puzzles.
Senior Photos with Santa
Wednesday, December 10, 11am Santa’s stopping by MAYC for photos and holiday fun with friends.
Visit with Nugget
Monday, December 15, 11am
Stop by and visit MAYC's favorite furry friend.
Holiday Luncheon
Wednesday, December 17, 11am, $5 Entertainment by Folk Revival starting at 11AM and lunch is served at NOON.
Holiday Cookie Social
Tuesday, December 23, 11am, free Join us for a sweet celebration of the season.
Holiday Closure
December 24, 25, and 26
MAYC closed for Christmas Holiday.
Birthday and Noon Year’s Eve Luncheon
Wednesday, December 31, 11am $5
ACME Magic Factory Show by magician Brian Anderson starting at 11AM with lunch at NOON.
AARP Foundation Tax- Aide Tuesday, January 6, 8:30am Tax appointment sign-ups open soon for low-income adults 50+. Advanced registration required. Call 763-786-9375, and please cancel if you can’t attend.
Thinking of You
Many well wishes for a speedy recovery to:
• Patty Sandin
We are all thinking and praying for you and your family:
• Dale Cesafsky
Our sympathy goes out to the families who recently experienced the loss of a loved one:
• Dee Gorr, survived by Arlo Haagenstad.
• Ray Kocon, well known for attending MAYC events
• Ardella Martin, former Monday bingo participant.
• Tom Nistler, cribbage player and big advocate of MAYC.
• Lotus Paulus, survived by husband Jim Paulus.
• Vera Olson, loved to play bingo on Mondays.
• Dan Smith, survived by mother Dorienne Smith.
• Linda Latz, participated in senior dining and special programs.
• Elaine Olson, loved playing in the cribbage tournaments.
10AM Learn Pinochle
12:30PM Beg Ukulele
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Int Ukulele
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
1:15PM Fitness Class
December Activities Calendar
Santa’s Can Food Shelf Donations Pick-Up
9AM Wii Bowling Fun 9:45AM Bus Trip Christmas Carol 10AM Learn 500 Cards 10AM Deck the Halls 11:15AM Legal Aid 1:1 Appt 1PM Int 500 Cards 1:15PM Fitness Class 6PM Medicare Ed Seminar 7PM Woodcarving Group
Chili,
9:30AM-1:30PM Tech Lab Appt
10AM Basket Making
10AM Learn Pinochle
10AM Sing Along
11AM Hand Bell Choir
Genesis Ringers
12:30PM Beg Ukulele
1PM Blainebrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Int Ukulele
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
1:15PM Fitness Class
9AM Wii Bowling Fun
10AM Learn 500 Cards
1PM Int 500 Cards
1:15PM Fitness Class
2PM Jewelry Gems Celebration
2PM Macrame
7PM Woodcarving Group
9:30AM Skating Fogerty
10AM Learn 500 Cards
1PM Hand & Foot
1PM Mah Jongg 1PM Woodcarving Group
8AM-4PM Foot Care 9:30AM Bridge Cards 10AM Line Dancing 10AM Declutter to Dollars 11AM Medicare Educational Seminar
1PM Fun Wii Bowling
1PM Wheel of Fortune 1:15PM Fitness Class 1:30-3:30PM Creative Corner
9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards
10AM Int Ukulele
10AM Learn Cribbage
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Cribbage
1PM Scrabble
10AM Learn Pinochle
12:30PM Beg Ukulele
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Int Ukulele
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
1:15PM Fitness Class
Sign up for Lunches for next month
9AM Wii Bowling Fun
10AM Learn 500 Cards
1PM Int 500 Cards
1:15PM Fitness Class 7PM Woodcarving Group
9AM Senior Companion
10AM Caregivers Support Group
9:30AM Skating Fogerty
10AM TVs Greatest Christmas Specials
11AM Photos with Santa 11AM Silver Ukes Holiday Concert
12PM Mingle Jingle Lunch
1PM Hand & Foot
1PM Mah Jongg
1PM Woodcarving Group
8:45AM Defensive Driving 10AM Line Dancing 1PM Fun Wii Bowling 1PM Movie of the Month 1:15PM Fitness Class
1:30-3:30PM Creative Corner
Multigrain Bread, Fruit Cocktail, Sugar Cookie, Milk, Butter
9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards
10AM Int Ukulele
10AM Learn Cribbage
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Cribbage
1PM Scrabble
Breaded Chicken Breast, Honey Balsamic Glaze, Risotto, Mixed Vegetables, Wheat Bread, Tropical Fruit, Brownie, Milk, Butter Pork Chow Mein, White Rice, Peas, Dinner Roll, Mandarin Oranges, Milk, Butter
10AM Learn Pinochle
10AM Basket Making
12:30PM Beg Ukulele
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Int Ukulele
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
1:15PM Fitness Class
Sign up for Lunches for next month
9AM Wii Bowling Fun
10AM Learn 500 Cards 11AM Holiday Cookie Social
1PM Int 500 Cards 1:15PM Fitness Class 2PM Macrame 7PM Woodcarving Group
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, Carrots, Dinner Roll, Diced Pears, Butterscotch Pudding w/ Whip, Milk, Butter Sloppy Joes, Tater Tots Coleslaw, Hamburger Bun, Diced Peaches, Milk
10AM Learn Pinochle
12:30PM Beg Ukulele
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Pinochle
1PM Int Ukulele
1PM Nickel Bingo
1PM Pegs and Jokers
1:15PM Fitness Class
9:30AM Skating Fogerty
10AM Aging with Strength and Stability
11AM Folk Revival Ent
12PM Holiday and Birthday Lunch
1PM Hand & Foot
1PM Mah Jongg
1PM Woodcarving Group
Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Brown Gravy, Carrots, Dinner Roll, Cherry Shortcake w/ Whip, Milk, Butter
8AM-4PM Foot Care
9:30AM Bridge Cards
10AM Line Dancing 1PM Kent’s Christmas Concert
1PM Fun Wii Bowling 1:15PM Fitness Class 1:30-3:30PM Creative Corner
Baked Pollock, Lemon Dill Sauce, Roasted Potatoes, Green Beans, Multigrain Bread, Fruit Cocktail, Milk, Butter ALT: Roasted Chicken
9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards
10AM Int Ukulele
10AM Learn Cribbage
11AM Novel Nook
11AM Visit with Nugget
1PM Blainbrook Bowling
1PM Int Cribbage 1PM Scrabble
Wii Bowling Fun
Learn 500 Cards
Int 500 Cards
Fitness Class
Woodcarving Group
Swedish Meatballs, Egg Noodles, Roasted Root, Vegetables, Diced Pears, Wheat Bread, Brownie, Milk, Butter
Baked Potato, Coleslaw, Cornbread, Pineapple Tidbits, Milk, Butter, Sour Cream
Chicken Fajita Omelet, Cheesy Potatoes, English Muffin, Applesauce, Milk, Jelly, Butter
Beef Patty, Sliced Cheese, Baked Beans, Mixed Vegetables, Hamburger Bun, Diced Peaches, Milk, Ketchup, Mustard
Breaded Chicken Breast, Creamy Garlic Rosemary, Sauce, Rice, Peas w/Pearl Onions,
Beef Stew, Zucchini, Dinner Roll, Diced Pears, Milk, Butter
Creamy Chicken & Vegetables, Biscuit, Broccoli, Tropical Fruit, Carnival Cookie, Milk
Glazed Ham, Candied Sweet Potatoes, Scalloped Corn, Dinner Roll, Chocolate Cream, Pie, Milk, Butter ALT: Turkey w/Gravy
Meatballs, Marinara Sauce, Spaghetti Noodles, Carrots, Side Salad w/Ranch, Garlic Toast, Cinnamon Applesauce, Milk, Butter
Lemon Pepper Tilapia, Rice Pilaf, Green Beans, Pineapple Tidbits, Pumpkin Bar w/ Frosting, Milk, Tartar Sauce ALT: Lemon Pepper Chicken
Hawaiian Glazed Meatballs, Basmati Rice, Broccoli, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie, Pineapple Tidbits, Milk
Chicken Egg Roll Bowl, White Rice, Stir Fry Vegetables, Diced Pears, Blonde Brownie, Milk, Soy Sauce
Hot Dog, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Diced Peaches, Hot Dog Bun, Milk, Ketchup, Mustard
Rolls, Mashed Potatoes, Tomato Gravy, Mixed Vegetables, Pineapple
Rye Bread, Jello Cake, Milk, Butter