MAYC Connect - May 2026

Connect

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

May is Older Americans Month

Every May, we observe Older Americans Month. It is a time to recognize older Americans' contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm our commitment to serving older adults.

This year’s theme, “Champion Your Health,” focuses on prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging. It encourages older adults to take an active role in their health — advocating for themselves, accessing preventive care, and making informed decisions that support independence. Join us in highlighting the importance of building and maintaining social connections that support emotional well-being while eating nutritious foods that will empower individuals to lead their healthiest lives.

Honoring 80+ Luncheon, Wednesday, May 13, $5 11am - Entertainment by the Silver Ukes noon - Glazed Ham Lunch

The Book Club that Chooses its Own Adventure

Readers' Choice

A devoted reader with a lifelong love of books, Pam has turned her passion into something special. Pam recently launched a Readers' Choice Book Club, where other book lovers take turns selecting what the group reads next. Her idea has created a warm, welcoming space filled with lively discussion, shared stories, and new connections. Pam is setting out to prove it is never too late to discover or rediscover the joy of reading together. As an avid reader, she believes stories are meant to be shared. Thanks to her resourcefulness, they now are.

The Readers' Choice Book Club, as its name suggests, is participant-driven. Members will suggest titles, vote for favorites, and plan a calendar of discussions where everyone’s voice matters. What began as a simple idea continues to evolve into a meaningful gathering, bringing book enthusiasts together through the joy of reading and conversation at the Mary Ann Young Center. Readers' Choice will meet the second Tuesday of each month from 11AM to Noon. Consider staying for lunch and continued camaraderie! See you for the next meeting on Tuesday, May 12, 11AM.

Upcoming Trips & Travel

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 Estate 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.

Landmark Travel Presentation

Wednesday, May 20, 1pm

Learn about unforgettable travel experiences. All trips include round trip airfare, quality accommodations in great locations with professional tour managers and local guides.

Twins Game

Wednesday, June 3, 11am bus, $75

Cheer on our boys of summer, as the Minnesota Twins take on the Chicago White Sox. Our seats are in section 204, along the first base line. Accessible seats are available. Please let us know if you need to reserve one. We will arrive around 11:45AM for the 12:40PM 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.

Stillwater River Boat Cruise

Friday, July 10, Bus Pickup at Mounds view Center, 10:15am-3:30pm, $92

Enjoy a deli luncheon while you experience the beauty of the scenic St. Croix River. Lunch includes a make your own sandwich, salad, chips, dessert, and non-alcoholic drinks included. Pickup is at Mounds View Community Center located at 5394 Edgewood Drive. Register by June 26 by calling 763-717-4040

Duluth Boat Ride and Lunch

Tuesday, July 21, 7:30am - 5:30pm, $99

Get ready for a full day in beautiful Duluth with a quick stop at Tobies in Hinckley and Thompson Hill for sweeping views of the city and the lake. Lunch options at Blackwoods are: meatloaf with mashed potatoes and a vegetable, or a chicken pot pie, both served with cornbread and sweet butter, or a Cobb Salad with crispy chicken or patty melt with waffle fries. All drinks except water are on your own. After lunch, it is all aboard the Vista Star for a 75-minute narrated harbor cruise with a live tour guide highlighting the panoramic views of the North Shore.

For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Program Spotlight

Blaine Trailblazers Walking Group

Mondays, May - October, 9am, free

Develop your physical endurance with friends on our beautiful local trails. Trail walks are approximately 1.5 to 3 miles in length. Wear comfortable clothing, good shoes, and layers for the weather. Trail location maps will be available at MAYC or contact the group leader Beverly Kronstedt at 763-571-7502

Blaine Bicycle Club

Wednesdays, May - October, 10am-noon, free

Enjoy biking and friendship as you ride to community destinations. Rides start at a predetermined trail and end with lunch at a local restaurant. Trips are planned by members for about 8-10 miles at a pace of about 8 to 10 miles per hour. For more information, call or text Deb McPeck at 763-442-1958

For more information and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Educational Programs

Protecting the Family Cabin with Proper Estate Planning

Tuesday, May 5, 10am, free

Spring is here, and so is cabin season! Learn how a cabin trust can protect your family, prevent common conflicts, and help ensure your cabin is enjoyed for generations.

Psychology of Decluttering: Why We Avoid It

Wednesday, May 13, 10am, free

This class explores why we avoid decluttering—especially during major life transitions like retirement or downsizing—and offers practical, realistic steps you can take. Presented by Kristi Nemec, Senior Home Coach.

Navigate the City of Blaine Website

Thursday, May 14, 10am, free

Learn to find the newsletter, register online, explore the city calendar, and more.

How to Avoid the

Nursing Home

Tuesday, May 19, 10am, free

Most of us hope our loved ones can avoid long-term nursing home care—but how do we make that happen? Learn practical physical, emotional, financial, and creative strategies to reduce the risk of facility care and support family caregiving.

Mickey, Bugs, and Betty Boop: The Birth of Animation

Wednesday, May 20, 10am, free

Explore the origins of cartoons with Eric Houston, tracing the first animated films, the comic strip artists who shaped them, and iconic characters like Gertie the Dinosaur, Felix the Cat, and Betty Boop. Learn how your favorite cartoon heroes came to life in this engaging one-hour class.

Making the Most of Your Home's Equity in Retirement

Wednesday, May 20, 10am, free

Considering a move but not sure how to handle the finances between your current home and your next one? Join Senior Home Coach™ Kristi Nemec and Brad Schmidt, loan officer with Granite Bank for this informative session.

Painting Watercolor Daffodils Class

Wednesday, May 20, 1-3pm, $25

Join friends this spring for a fun and relaxing afternoon painting daffodils! We will work step by step with watercolors and create a beautiful floral painting. All materials will be provided by the Rumriver Art Center! For questions and to register, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYCRegister

Movie of the Month: A League of Their Own

Thursday, May 21, 1pm, free

This 1992 classic features a winning combination of sassy humor and sentiment. This movie proved that there is definitely an audience for femaledriven sports films. Based on the real life AllAmerican Girls Professional Baseball League, which existed from 1943 to 1954, eventually fielding 10 teams and more than 600 female professional baseball players. The film, which was directed by the late Penny Marshall, stars Geena Davis as a star player on the Rockford Peaches, one of the first four female professional baseball teams established during World War II. Tom Hanks costars as a washed-up professional baseball player who is tapped to manage the Peaches.

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

Event Spotlight

Honoring Our Ladies Luncheon

Wednesday, May 6, 11am, $5

Celebrate the senior women in our community through connection, appreciation, and joy in a warm, welcoming environment with entertainment by Jim and Molly Folk Band.

Big Hat Mother's Day Tea

Friday, May 8, 1-3pm, $5

The MN Cool Retired Ladies invites you to celebrate the love and grace of motherhood during a charming afternoon filled with fellowship, delightful teas, sweet treats, and beautiful memories. Guests are encouraged to wear their most fabulous big hats and spring attire as we gather to honor the amazing mothers and mother figures in our lives. Enjoy a curated selection of teas, and small desserts in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The event will feature a best hat showcase, photo opportunities, and special tributes to mothers. Whether you are bringing your mom, grandmother, sister, daughter, or dear friends, this casual tea party is the perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day in style.

Music of the Decades: The 1960s

Thursday, June 4, 1-3pm, free Folk music from the 1960s era by Folk Revival MN! From Bob Dylan and John Denver to The Seekers and The Youngbloods, we will take a tour of music in and around the 1960s, diving deep into how and why our music developed and changed during this pivotal generation. Intermission snacks for all.

For more information and questions, call 763-786-9375 or visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYC

Wellness Programs

Got Heartburn?

Friday, May 8, 10am, free GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) is one of the most common digestive disorders and its prevalence is steadily increasing. In this class we will discuss symptoms, common underlying causes, potential risks, and possible holistic treatment options.

Medicare Counseling In-Person Appointments

Wednesday, May 6 and 27, 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

Delivers meals to individuals at home who are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals.

Metro Mobility

651-602-1111

A 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

Participant Code of Conduct

The following guidelines are in place to provide safe and enjoyable activities for all those participating as well as those attending as spectators.

• Respect all participants and staff.

• Take direction from staff.

• Refrain from using abusive or foul language.

• Refrain from causing bodily harm to self, other participants, or staff.

• Refrain from damaging equipment, supplies, or facilities.

Failure to follow these rules may result in a suspension of participation.

Upcoming Alerts and Celebrations

Suncatcher Making

Tuesday, May 12, 10am, $15 donation

Put together a beautiful suncatcher with glass beads, jewelry, and more.

All supplies provided.

Friends of MAYC Meeting

Thursday, May 14, 2pm

All are invited to attend to discuss card playing protocols and code of conduct.

Plant Sale

Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16, 9am-5pm 1184 - 115th Circle NE, Blaine MN

The Soil and Sunshine Garden Club will be selling annuals, perennials, tomatoes, and herbs.

MAYC Closed

Monday, May 25 MAYC closed in observance of Memorial Day holiday.

Birthday Luncheon

Wednesday, May 27, 11am, $5 Entertainment by Dick Szyplinski starts at 11AM, with lunch at 12PM. Advance registration is required, call 763-786-9375 and cancel if needed.

Cornhole (Bags)

Thursday, May 28, 1pm, free

Casual cornhole and Wii Bowling— fun for all.

Thinking of You

Many well wishes for a speedy recovery to:

• Patty Sandin

• Myra Selle

• Myrna Kostuch

Our sympathy goes out to the families who recently experienced the loss of a loved one:

• Marilyn Bowers, sister to Michele Boedigheimer

• Norm McCarthy and Dawn McCarthy, active husband and wife with several MAYC programs

• Gloria Plaster, beloved frequent diner and bingo player

May Activities Calendar

2nd Sunday of the month, 2-4pm North Metro Woodcarving Association Meetings

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.

10AM Learn Pinochle

12:30PM Beg Ukulele

1PM Blainbrook Bowling

1PM Int Pinochle

1PM Ukulele Jam Session

1PM Nickel Bingo

1PM Pegs and Jokers

1:15PM Fitness Class

9AM Walking Club at Lochness Park

9:30AM-1:30PM Tech Lab Appt

10AM Learn Pinochle

10AM Basket Making

12:30PM Beg Ukulele

1PM Blainbrook Bowling

1PM Int Pinochle

1PM Ukulele Jam Session

1PM Nickel Bingo

1PM Pegs and Jokers

1:15PM Fitness Class

6:30PM Garden Club Mtg

9AM Wii Bowling League

10AM Protecting the Family Cabin

10AM Learn 500 Cards

1PM Int 500 Cards

1:15PM Fitness Class 7PM Woodcarving Group

9:30AM Skating Fogerty

11:15AM Legal Aid 1:1 Appt

11AM Jim and Molly Folk Band Entertainment

12PM Honoring Ladies Luncheon

1PM Hand & Foot

1PM Mah Jongg 1PM Woodcarving Group

8AM-4PM Foot Care 8:45AM Defensive Driving

9AM Bridge Cards

10AM Line Dancing 1PM Fun Wii Bowling

1:15PM Fitness Class

1:30PM Creative Corner 2PM Learn Sudoku Puzzles

9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards

10AM Ukulele Jam Session

1PM Blainbrook Bowling

1PM Int Cribbage 1PM Scrabble

Lemon Pepper Tilapia, Brown Rice Florentine, Roasted Root Vegetable, Blue Raspberry Jello w/Whip, Pineapple Tidbits, Milk, Tarter Sauce ALT: Lemon Pepper Chicken

9AM Beg Ukulele

9-11AM Billiards

10AM Got Heartburn?

10AM Ukulele Jam Session

1PM Big Hat Mother’s Day Tea

1PM Blainbrook Bowling

1PM Int Cribbage 1PM Scrabble

9AM Walking Club at Pioneer Park

9:30AM-1:30PM Tech Lab Appt

10AM Basket Making

10AM Learn Pinochle

12:30PM Beg Ukulele

1PM Blainbrook Bowling

1PM Int Pinochle

1PM Ukulele Jam Session

1PM Nickel Bingo

1PM Pegs and Jokers

1:15PM Fitness Class

9AM Wii Bowling League 10AM Learn 500 Cards 10AM Suncatcher Making 11AM Readers’ Choice 1PM Int 500 Cards 1:15PM Fitness Class 7PM Woodcarving Group

9:30AM Skating Fogerty

9AM Senior Companion

10AM Caregivers Support Group

10AM Psychology of Decluttering

11AM Ent Silver Ukes

12PM Older Americans Luncheon

1PM Hand & Foot

1PM Mah Jongg

1PM Woodcarving Group

9AM Bridge 10AM Line Dancing 10AM Navigate the City Website

Dinner

Sign up for VOA lunches for next month

9AM Wii Bowling League

10AM Learn 500 Cards

10AM Avoid the Nursing Home

1PM Int 500 Cards 1:15PM Fitness Class 7PM Woodcarving Group

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, Corn, Breadstick, Strawberry Applesauce, Milk, Butter

9AM

MAYC Closed in Observance of Memorial Day

9:30AM Skating Fogerty

10AM Making the Most of Home Equity

10AM Birth of Animation

1PM Landmark Travel Presentation

1PM Hand & Foot

1PM Mah Jongg

1PM Watercolor Class 1PM Woodcarving Group

Pork Loin, Dijon Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, Italian Blend Vegetables, Dinner Roll, Butterscotch Pudding w/Whip, Milk, Butter ALT: Roast Turkey

8AM-4PM Foot Care 9AM Bridge 10AM Line Dancing 1PM Movie of the Month 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 Fun Wii Bowling 1:15PM Fitness Class 1:30PM Creative Corner 2PM Friends of MAYC, Cards 9AM Plant Sale 1184 - 115th Circle NE

1PM Scrabble

Flemish Chicken, Sweet Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts w/ Lemon, Wheat Bread, Tropical Fruit, Milk, Butter

9AM Beg Ukulele 9-11AM Billiards

10AM Ukulele Jam Session

1PM Blainbrook Bowling

1PM Int Cribbage 1PM Scrabble