Issuu

SEPTEMBER 2026

Marlais Brand, Executive Director's Report

Greetings FiftyNorth Community, In less than a month, the FiftyNorth and YMCA boards will review a legal Plan of Merger. Together, we have considered mission, risk and opportunity very carefully, and I’m just gonna come right out and say it:

 The photos are from a 2009 performance at FiftyNorth with Craig Wasner on the keyboard, Michael Hildebrandt on the fiddle and Will Healy at the mic.

I hope you join me and the team on Thursday, September 24 for our Special Member Meeting to approve the FiftyNorth board’s recommendation to merge with the Northfield YMCA.

INSIDE THE REPORT

I am a FiftyNorth leader, member, fan, and champion. I love this membership. I love this staff. I love this community, and I think the FiftyNorth board is going to approve the Plan of Merger, and recommend that we merge. Why? Because they are smart, and they also love FiftyNorth and want to see it survive and thrive. I think they will confirm that the bucket load of Due Diligence we have done clearly proves that we will all be better together if we merge.

Director’s Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 - 4

And why wouldn’t we be? FiftyNorth is an amazing community organization making thriving through aging possible for people north of 50 every year. The YMCA is an amazing community organization making wellbeing possible for people aged 1-100 every year. We are both 100% committed to growing services for seniors in greater Northfield. Our initial combined board will be majority led by people over 50. Just think about our potential-- two great organizations, doing one great, big thing for seniors TOGETHER.

AARP Smart Driving. . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Photo: Marlais and Elaine working with Rachel

Special Member Meeting.. . . . . . . . 5 Photos: August happenings.. . 6 , 7 Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Fitness New.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12 50 Faces for FiftyNorth. . . . . . . 1 3 Life Long Learning.. . . . . . . . . . 14,15 The Arts.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16,17 Volunteers of the Month. . . . . . . 18 Groups/Group Calendar. . . . . 18-20 Travel.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21,22 Services.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Donors/New Members. . . . . . . . . 2 4

CLOSED

Labor Day is Monday, September 7, 2026

continued p2

and Julie from the YMCA membership team.

Jessica Irwin 509 Division St

Jon Snodgrass 158 N Water St, Suite 4

Christian Lockner 1250 Hwy 3 S

Ben Van Vooren 158 N Water St, Suite 4

Brian Panettiere 205 W 3rd St, Suite B

Thank you 50th Anniversary Gold Sponsors

FiftyNorth, 1651 Jefferson Parkway, Northfield MN | (507) 664-3700 | FiftyNorth.org

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

Marlais Brand, Executive Director's Report ...two great organizations, doing one great, big thing for seniors TOGETHER. More members

More funding

More leverage

More programs

More assets

More strength

More facilities

More scholarships

More staying power

More staff support

More resources

More donors

More capacity

If you’ve been in the FiftyNorth lobby, you’ve seen our Merger Info Sheets. If you haven’t eyeballed them, here’s a rundown: Why team up with the Y? We can STRENGTHEN FiftyNorth together  More scholarships  More fundraising capacity

Better Together Please pick up a pin in the lobby and support joining forces!

SAME PAGE Let’s take a moment to clear up a few things about the merger. Here are some Affirmations and No-Nos to keep us all on the same page.

 More potential revenue

MERGER AFFIRMATIONS

 More administrative support

YES, strengthen our life-changing mission to serve people north of 50 with the best thriving-through-aging programs and facilities possible

 Staff benefits, including healthcare for eligible

full-time staff

 Better NCRC cleaning & maintenance

YES, keep our fabulous “FiftyNorth” name

 Lower costs & rent

YES, get to use the current YMCA facilities too!

 More influence over the spaces we call home

YES, keep our hard-working, dedicated staff, instructors & volunteers at the heart of FiftyNorth

We can GROW FiftyNorth together  More senior members  More donors  Capital fundraising for a new long-term home for

FiftyNorth

 Amazing social, learning, event and fitness spaces,

including warm water pool

YES, keep our warm & friendly front desk team YES, keep Used-A-Bit, staff & volunteers YES, keep our rich & diverse programming– including fitness, learning, arts, clubs & events YES, keep membership affordable YES, keep renting our current NCRC space until our new long-term home is ready

We can build a bright FUTURE together

YES, improve membership service with updated systems

 Sustain FiftyNorth for another 50 years of service

YES, save money on administrative costs

 Make thriving-through-aging possible for more

YES, provide healthcare for eligible full-time staff

seniors

 Change the lives of nearly 40% of Northfield

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

Marlais Brand, Executive Director's Report MERGER NO-NOS NO moving until our long-term home is ready NO eliminating senior-only programming, including aquatics NO merger-driven elimination of the staff & programs that make FiftyNorth special NO disappearing– FiftyNorth name, identity and senior mission will continue NO losing our voice– we will retain board & committee representation, and create a dedicated FiftyNorth Advisory Committee

NO giving away our $– FiftyNorth funds will continue supporting senior mission NO hostile takeover– FiftyNorth & the Y are willing community partners, who share a vision & commitment to help people, especially seniors, thrive-through-aging NO stopping Silver Sneakers-style programming– we’ll still offer these types of fitness classes, just under a different name NO turning anyone away– we are committed to providing affordable (in some cases free) membership to anyone who needs financial help

MERGER MEMBERSHIP

We’re planning to provide simple and affordable membership options for current and future FiftyNorth members, just as the Y does today. We’ll move into the senior membership structure that the Y operates with today, and we’re also considering adding a “social only” membership too. Members 50 and older would have access to BOTH FiftyNorth and Y facilities. Senior membership options could look like this: Individual Senior Membership– $47 per month, or less* Household Membership– starts at $91 per month* Social Membership– TBD* *Please remember, we want everyone to thrive through aging. If you need assistance, we’ll work with you to reduce financial barriers to membership and programs. See the Affordability section below.

VALUE We also want to increase the value of your current membership as we move forward. For instance, an Individual or Household Membership would include most FiftyNorth programs, events and clubs. AND, would also include access to BOTH the FiftyNorth and Y facilities, including the Wellness Center, pool, gymnasium and indoor walking track, along with group exercise classes, adult drop-in sports and more. Members would also have access to Y360 online classes and resources, and Ys across the country. We’d probably provide this simple, comprehensive membership option, instead of charging myriad additional fees, as we do today. We may charge an additional affordable fee for special events, classes, trips, or art classes, but we’d really like most of what you want to do to be included in your membership.

Merger Membership continues p4

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

Marlais Brand, Executive Director's Report Merger Membership continued —

SOCIAL SENIOR MEMBERSHIP We’re thinking about those who simply want to connect and participate in FiftyNorth lobby time, groups, or clubs. So we’re considering offering a “social only” membership. In this case, FiftyNorth would no longer collect additional fees for cards or clubs. Instead, one Social Membership fee would cover any or all of these activities. This membership probably wouldn’t include access to the pool or wellness facilities, or participation in programs, events or trips. Other Ys and senior centers have successfully used social membership options, and provide them at a very affordable rate. If we go in this direction, we’ll do the same.

AFFORDABILITY The Y and FiftyNorth are both committed to access and affordability, so membership rates don’t tell the whole story. The Y operates a Membership for All program to provide financial assistance for membership and program fees based on financial need, or life circumstances. We want everyone to participate in wellbeing, and we’re committed to providing fee reductions to make access possible. You’ll have a couple options for paying or covering the cost for your membership too:  Paying fees out of pocket – Membership can be paid monthly through automatic bank account

or credit card drafts, or annually in advance.

 Insurance reimbursement – The Y currently works with NIHCA Rewards, and Renew Active/

One Pass and Silver&Fit*. Depending on your insurance coverage, these programs may provide reimbursement or membership benefits that can help offset or cover your membership costs. *Renew Active/One Pass and Silver&Fit are currently accepted at FiftyNorth Please join me on Thursday September 24 to approve merging with the YMCA. I plan to be here today and tomorrow, supporting FiftyNorth right alongside you because I know we are better together. Together we can strengthen and grow FiftyNorth for your generation, my generation, and the generations to come. SEPTEMBER

If you have questions, come and see me. I aim to be in the lobby most mornings from 8-9, and most afternoons from 4-5 right on through our vote. Our next Community Update is September 16. Board members will be on hand to explain, from their leadership perspectives, why we are better together. Thank you for being a member. We appreciate you, and value your engagement. Better Together! See you in the lobby,

Marlais

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

MEMBER NOTICE FiftyNorth Special Member Meeting Thursday, September 24, 2026 8am-7pm If the FiftyNorth board of directors approves the forthcoming legal Plan of Merger between FiftyNorth and the

Northfield Area Family YMCA, then the board will draft a Recommendation To Merge Resolution, send it to all current FiftyNorth members, post it in the lobby, and invite members to vote on the Resolution at a Special Membership Meeting on September 24, 2026, anytime from 8am-7pm.

Current members will be invited to vote on the Recommendation in-person by paper ballot. FiftyNorth bylaws stipulate that this member vote must be made in-person here at FiftyNorth and occur during a Special Member Meeting. Our bylaws do not allow for proxy voting. State law stipulates that we must choose one method of voting– electronic or in-person– and the FiftyNorth board decided that the vote should be cast in-person. VOTING LOGISTICS  September 24  FiftyNorth, 1651 Jefferson Pkwy, Northfield MN  8am-7pm  Room 102  In-person  Paper ballot  Must be current member by September 23, 2026 @ noon  The vote will be managed by poll volunteers  Volunteers will check current members in with a current member roster & receive a paper ballot  The Special Member Meeting will close at 7pm (anyone still in line at 7pm may vote)  Two volunteers–who are not members of FiftyNorth or the YMCA– will count the votes  The vote count will be communicated to Board President, Carla Johnson and Executive Director, Marlais Brand  Results will be emailed to all current members and posted in the lobby by Sept 25, 2026  Please do not call the front desk for vote results on September 24– we will keep the lines open for curbside voting and other membership business. VOTING ACCOMMODATIONS Curbside Voting Current FiftyNorth members with mobility issues may vote curbside, in front of FiftyNorth To vote curbside, call the front desk (507-664-3700) and a voting volunteer will bring a ballot to you, collect your sealed ballot, and return it to the ballot box. Volunteer Rides If you do not have transportation, and need a ride to FiftyNorth to vote, please call the front desk (507-664-3700) and staff will collect your name, phone number and address. A volunteer will call you back to schedule a ride before September 24. This service is being coordinated by FiftyNorth, but provided by individual volunteers. Volunteer drivers cannot transport you to or from your front door and their car– you need to get into their car on your own steam. Drivers will accommodate a fold-up walker in their car, but not a wheelchair.

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

Caught on Camera! michelle Brant, Program and Arts Manager and Marie Gery, volunteer are hanging the Echoes and Shadows Gallery Show. Each piece will hang with it’s poem and artist bio. Mark your calendar:

ECHOES & SHADOWS GALLERY RECEPTION & POETRY READING Thursday, September 17

Space: FiftyNorth Art Gallery & Room 103  Gallery Reception from 4:00 to 5:00  Poetry Reading begins at 5:00 Cost: Free

Teaser! Gallery is open for viewing. To the right; Craig Swenson Pyrograper, submitted a piece that features 7 birds.

Andria Turini ceated a 6 piece collection of framed bead artistry that corrolates with a poem.

Marty Amundson created a collage titiled “Carpet of Spring”

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

Pictured L-R:  Jeff Sauve with audience book launch for ‘Wheels of Murder’ .  Jeff reading an excerpt from the book.

Watercolor Tecniques class: Pictured L-R:  Rhonda Meyer, Kay Marosi, Linda Gagnon  Katheirne Powers Pictured L-R:  Bonnie DuPay and Gail Heidebrink and group photo of the MN TWINS game on July 30.

Pictured L-R:  Rhonda Meyer, Kay Marosi, Linda Gagnon  Katheirne Powers

Artist Reception for potter; Peggy Weaver and Mixed Media artist; Michael Sweere

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

EVENTS

FIFTYNORTH BAND CONCERT Monday, October 5 4:00-5:00pm Capacity: 80 Cost: Free Space: 103 & 105

ECHOES & SHADOWS GALLERY RECEPTION & POETRY READING Thursday, September 17

Space: FiftyNorth Art Gallery & Room 103  Gallery Reception from 4:00 to 5:00  Poetry Reading begins at 5:00 Cost: Free

Step into an immersive evening where language and visual expression collide. Where Words Meet Canvas brings together local poets and visual artists for a collaborative exhibition exploring the dialogue between written word and medium. Throughout the night, experience paired presentations where custom artwork is revealed alongside the spoken-word pieces that inspired them. This event highlights how two distinct art forms can amplify a single emotion, story, or idea.

FiftyNorth Band is in concert October 5! We’ve got Russian Sailors, a Minstrel Boy, some Yankee Doodlin’, a sail down the Moon River, a little Gershwin, and, of course, our fabulous trombones will be featured! And Dave may tell jokes! Don’t miss it! 4:00 p.m., October 5! See *you* there! *Advance registration is requested to assist us in preparation of seating and refreshments. Cheese and crackers will be served following the performance.

WILL HEALY WITH THE OVER AND BACK BAND Saturday, September 26 7:00-9:00pm (Doors open at 6pm, Show starts at 7pm) Northfield High School, Northfield, MN

Check in at the ticket counter. Reservations will be in alphabetical order by last name.

**Please Enter Door 10 (from Raider Dr)

SHAKESPEARE’S WILL Friday, October 9 7:00pm

SHAKESPEARE’S WILL Saturday, October 10 1:00pm

Capacity: 80 Cost: $10 Space: Room 103 / 105 “Flawless and formidable…an intimate portrait of a woman left alone, a woman who, despite abandonment, struggles to keep faith in her husband and the private vow they made…a script wherein ideas, scenes and words flow like water.”

“Written by Vern Thiessen, directed by Tom Johnson as performed at the Northfield Arts Guild Theater in 2024 and re-staged by Patsy Dew in 2026.

“When the wind is up, you always move on.” This one woman show stars Susan Dunhaupt as Anne Hathaway.

*MATURE AUDIENCE: Not suitable for children

AUGUST 2026 FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

MEMBER NEWS

5 9

FIFTYNORTH FITNESS NEWS NEW SPECIAL EVENT CLASS

FOOD RECOVERY NETWORK Fridays, September 25, October 2,9,16,23,30, November 6,13 11:00am-12:00pm Location: Lobby Cost: Free

Student volunteers from Carleton College will be delivering microwavable, recyclable, packages of food to us as part of a Food Recovery Network. The contents will vary, but they will typically include a protein, vegetable and carbohydrate. Food packages will be placed in a small refrigerator in the lobby. We will receive a limited supply. First come, first served. Please serve and clean up after yourself. Deliveries will be on Fridays. The program operates when classes are in session at the Carleton campus. Please read below the history and the mission of the Food Recovery Network at Carleton College. Working together with Bon Appétit, the CCCE founded Carleton’s chapter of the national Food Recovery Network in January 2014, the first such branch in the state of Minnesota. We strive to both reduce food waste on campus and address food access problems in our surrounding community. Student volunteers recover surplus food from both LDC and Burton dining halls five nights a week, collect upwards of 1,500 lbs of food each week from Cub Foods on Monday and Thursday morning, and often collaborate with the St. Olaf Food Recovery Network Team. Recovered food is then transported to various community partners in Northfield and Faribault, including the Community Action Center Food Shelf, the Northfield Community College Collaborative, Greenvale Community School, the Faribault Education Center, and the Key Youth Center. Through this work, Food Recovery supports numerous food access points for families that have inadequate access to nutritious meals, all the while diverting thousands of pounds of food from the landfill and forging connections between Carleton dining hall staff, students, and Rice County community members.

UPCOMING COMMUNITY UPDATE MEETINGS Mark your calendars. Join us for an informative update on the due diligence work exploring a merge with the Northfield Area YMCA. September 16 | October 21 1:00-2:30pm — Room 105

SPECIAL EVENT - INTRO TO LATIN DANCING Tuesdays, September 22, 29, October 6, 13 4:30-5:30pm Instructor: Chris Kauffeld Capacity: 20 Cost: Nonmember: $50 Member: $35 Space: Fitness Studio *This is a one-of-a-kind session-based class with specialized pricing. Chris Kauffeld will be leading this amazing four-week class. Each week, you’ll dive into a vibrant new Latin dance style! You’ll master the foundational steps, catch the rhythm, and leave each class feeling confident, energized, and ready to move to the music. Week 1: Learn the Merengue The Merengue is a lively, fast-paced Latin dance originating in the Dominican Republic. Famous for being beginner-friendly, it features a simple, continuous march-like step and prominent hip movement achieved by bending and straightening the knees. Week 2: Learn the Rumba The Rumba is considered to be one of the most beautiful Latin style dances, earning its nickname as “The Dance of Love”. It is characterized by swaying hips, a still upper body and close partner connections. Week 3: Learn the Tango Tango is a dramatic, passionate partner dance that originated in the 1880s along the Río de la Plata between Argentina and Uruguay. Known for close embraces and sharp, stylized movements, it is categorized primarily into Argentine Tango and Ballroom Tango. Week 4: Learn the Cha Cha The Cha Cha is a lively, cheeky, and playful Latin dance originating from Cuba. It is famously characterized by its syncopated triple step (the “cha-cha-cha”) and continuous Cuban hip motion. Danced to upbeat 4/4-time music, it brings high energy to the dance floor. (4 sessions) FITNESS NEWS continued p6

FIFTYNORTH FITNESS NEWS

Fall Prevention Month

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026 Fitness Manager, Craig Swenson (507) 664-3702  Craig.Swenson@fiftynorth.org

September is national fall prevention month. Recent 2026 data shows that every year older adult fall fatalities exceed well over 41,000 and well over 6 million doctor visits for minor to major injuries caused by falls. Below are 6 ways to help you reduce fall risks…

CRAIG’S CORNER

6 Steps to Prevent a Fall

1.) Find a good balance and exercise program, look to build balance, strength, and flexibility. FYI FiftyNorth has some amazing classes that help increase each of these areas, such as Tai Chi, Silver Sneakers Balance, Core and More, etc… 2.) Talk to your health care provider. Ask for an assessment of your risk of falling, and share with them your recent history of falls. 3.) Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist, ensure that side effects are not increasing your risk of falling. 4.) Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses 5.) Keep your home safe. Remove tripping hazards such as rugs or other objects you may need to step over, increase lighting, make stairs safer, and install grab bars in key areas. 6.) Talk to your family members. Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just an issue for seniors. FITNESS NEWS continued p8

AQUA FITNESS

COLOR KEY: GREEN: Class

GOLD: Group Activity (Open Swim allowed)

BLUE: Open Swim

FIFTYNORTH FITNESS NEWS

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026 Monday

2026 IN-PERSON LAND BASED FITNESS CLASSES (updated September) Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

11 Saturday

6:00 AM EXPRESS STRENGTH (6:15-6:45)

EXPRESS STRENGTH (6:15-6:45)

6:30 AM 7:00 AM 7:30 AM

CARDIO DANCE AND DRUMSTICKS (7-7:45)

8:00 AM 8:30 AM

CORE AND MORE (8:30-9)

HATHA YOGA (7-7:45)

YOGA STRETCH (7-7:45)

STRENGTH AND STRETCH (8-9)

CORE AND MORE (8:30-9)

HATHA YOGA (7-7:45)

STRENGTH AND STRETCH (8-9)

CORE AND MORE (8:30-9)

STRENGTH AND DANCE FUSION (8-9)

9:00 AM

9:30 AM

YOGA STRETCH (9:15-10:15)

10:00 AM 10:30 AM

CIRCUIT MEDITATION SLO FLO TRAINING FITNESS YOGA (9:30-10:30) (9:30-10:30) (9:15-10:15) NO open use ROOM 106

YOGA STRETCH AND BREATHE (9:15-10)

SLO FLO YOGA (9:15-10:15)

CIRCUIT TRAINING (9:30-10:30) NO open use

SILVER SNEAKERS (10:30-11:30)

GENTLE CHAIR YOGA (10:30- 11:30)

SILVER SNEAKERS (10:30-11:30)

GENTLE CHAIR YOGA (10:30-11:30)

SILVER SNEAKERS BALANCE (12-12:45)

SILVER&FIT (12-12:45)

SILVER SNEAKERS BALANCE (12-12:45)

SILVER&FIT (12-12:45)

BEGINNING HATHA YOGA (9:15-10:15)

HATHA YOGA (9:15-10:15)

SILVER SNEAKERS (10:30-11:30)

11:00 AM 11:30 AM

12:00 PM 12:30 PM 1:00 PM

BEGINNING SOMATICS (1-2)

TABLE TENNIS (10:30-3:45)

1:30 PM 2:00 PM

TABLE TENNIS (1:30-3)

TABLE TENNIS (1:30-3:30)

SOMATICS (2:15-3-15) Prerequisite: Beginning Somatics

2:30 PM

TABLE TENNIS (1:30-3:30)

SOMATICS (2:15-3:15) Prerequisite: Beginning Somatics

3:00 PM 3:30 PM

TAI CHI FLOW (3:30-4)

4:00 PM

AFTERNOON QI TIME (4:15-4:45)

IN-PERSON FITNESS INTENSITY KEY:

4:30 PM 5:00 PM

WELL-BALANCED SILVER SNEAKERS (5-5:45)

5:30 PM

ROOM 105

HEALTHFINDERS BOXING

(5-5:45) ROOM 105

(5:30-6:45) Sign up with HealthFinders

HEALTHFINDERS ZUMBA WITH MARIBEL (6-7) - FREE

6:00 PM TABLE TENNIS (5:30-7:30) 6:30 PM

ACTIVATE HIPS & HARA (5-5:30)

WELL-BALANCED SILVER SNEAKERS

HEALTHFINDERS ZUMBA WITH MARIBEL (6-7) - FREE

PINK: High Intensity BLUE: Mid-range PURPLE: Gentle GOLD: NO Open Use

7:30 PM

2026 VIRTUAL LAND BASED FITNESS CLASSES (updated July) AVAILABLE THRU ZOOM Monday 6:00 AM 6:30 AM 7:00 AM

Tuesday

EXPRESS STRENGTH (6:15-6:45)

8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM

Thursday

STRENGTH AND CARDIO (7-7:45) BOOTCAMP (8-9)

Friday

Saturday

EXPRESS STRENGTH (6:15-6:45)

7:30 AM 8:00 AM

Wednesday

STRENGTH TRAINING

CORE AND MORE (8:30-9) YOGA STRETCH (9:15-10:15)

(8-9)

STRENGTH AND STRETCH (8-9)

CARDIO KICKBOXING (8-9) CORE AND MORE (8:30-9)

SLO FLO YOGA (9:15-10:15)

MOBILITY AND STRETCH (7-7:45)

STRENGTH TRAINING (8-9)

STRENGTH

STRONG NATION

AND

(8-9)

STRETCH

CORE AND MORE (8:30-9)

(8-9)

SLO FLO YOGA (9:15-10:15)

BEGINNING HATHA YOGA (9:15-10:15)

GENTLE CHAIR YOGA (10:30-11:30)

SILVER SNEAKERS (10:30-11:30)

STRENGTH AND DANCE FUSION (8-9)

HATHA YOGA (9:15-10:15)

10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM

SILVER SNEAKERS (10:30-11:30)

GENTLE CHAIR YOGA (10:30-11:30)

SILVER SNEAKERS (10:30-11:30)

11:30 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 PM 1:00 PM

SILVER SNEAKERS BALANCE (12-12:45)

VIRTUAL LAND BASED FITNESS 1:30 PM 2:00 PM 2:30 PM

SILVER&FIT (12-12:45)

SILVER SNEAKERS BALANCE (12-12:45)

SILVER&FIT (12-12:45)

INTENSITY KEY: PINK – High Intensity BLUE – Mid-range PURPLE - Gentle

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

NEW ONGOING FITNESS CLASS BEGINNING SOMATICS Fridays beginning September 11 1:00-2:00pm Instructor: Cheryl Ramette, certified Hanna Somatics-based Instructor Capacity: 20 Cost: $10 Nonmember, $8 Member, $0 Fitness Plus/Platinum In this class we will learn and explore the essential somatic movements based on those developed by Thomas Hanna. Registration is open to those who have had no previous experience, and those who have previously attended an intro course or special series. Hanna Somatics teaches us how to use our brain to ease our pain by reducing muscle stiffness, giving our nervous system better information about how to use our muscles the way they were designed for efficient, comfortable activity. Participants will learn about the natural reflex arcs patterns in the human body, and how to address muscle tightness in the front, back, and sides - as well as shoulders, hips, and limbs. The movements feel good - they are simple, calming, and effective. They’re designed to increase comfort, ease, and freedom in all the ways we move throughout the day, and to give us more possibilities for moving well. Participants should be able to get up and down from the floor; using a chair for help doing that is fine. Almost all the movements are done on the floor, so once we are down we stay down until class is over. “Through Cheryl’s somatic guidance, I’ve become more able to use my whole body as the efficient system of movement it was meant to be. My brain, nervous system, bones, and muscles have all begun to work in harmony.” Bobbi Strangfeld, FiftyNorth member.

THE FOLLOWING FITNESS CLASS WILL END ON FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 4 SENIOR AEROBICS Fridays 7:00-7:45am THE FOLLOWING FITNESS CLASSES WILL END ON FRIDAY, SEP 11 TAI CHI FLOW Monday/Wednesday/Friday 3:30-4:00pm AFTERNOON QI TIME Monday/Wednesday/Friday 4:15-4:45pm ACTIVATE HIPS & HARA FOR IMPROVED MOVEMENT Fridays 5:00-5:30pm

Call (507) 222-8960 to Reserve Your Home Today

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CO-OP AMENITIES Community Room Fitness Room Pickleball Courts Creator Spaces Fenced Pet Area & Pet Wash

BREAKING GROUND SUMMER 2026! (507) 222-8960 www.gracewinliving.com

Sales Office:

2018 Jefferson Rd, Suite I Northfield, MN 55057

50 Faces for FiftyNorth Project

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

A new project is hitting FiftyNorth!

Hi! My name is Audrey Lonsky and I am a new communications intern here at FiftyNorth. My main task will be working on our new project: Fifty Faces of FiftyNorth, alongside helping out with our social media pages! I’ll be around the center through the middle of September, so please feel free to say hello! A little bit about me… I am from White Bear Lake, Minnesota, but will be going back to Eugene to start my sophomore year at the University of Oregon this fall, where I’m studying business. This summer, I have really enjoyed spending my free time on the lake or baking something new. I have a cabin in Wisconsin, so I usually spend my weekends there. I also took a trip to Italy this summer with my family, which was amazing. I love to travel, so if you have good recommendations, tips, or stories, please let me know! From my first day as an intern at FiftyNorth, what stood out to me was the welcoming energy and genuine sense of belonging here. Every conversation I’ve had with members proves that it’s so much more than a center for classes and fitness programs, it’s a lively community with tons of wisdom and connection. Getting to see firsthand how FiftyNorth’s members and staff empower one another to thrive makes me proud to be part of the team, and I feel so lucky to help share your stories through the Fifty Faces project!

Gordon Kelly

Audrey Lonsky

Every member has a story, and together they define the heart of FiftyNorth. Between now and the end of the year, we’re going to be telling the stories of 50+ people in the FiftyNorth community. We’ll share these stories in many different ways, but our goal is to honor our members and showcase what it truly means to thrive at every stage of life. Keep an eye on our newsletters, social pages, and the alcove in the lobby for these features. We can’t wait for you to meet the faces behind our community, and maybe see a bit of your own story reflected in theirs!

Gordon Kelly has been a member of FiftyNorth since October 2000, His wife Marilyn, who was teaching water aerobics, suggested he come along and see what the place was all about. What began as a nudge has turned into three decades of fun and friendship. Gordon loves walking the indoor circuit most mornings and mixes in whatever classes and activities will fit into his day. He’s not one of the “8 a.m. regulars,” but he’s more than happy to grab coffee, and, as he says, “shoot the bull”, with whichever group is hanging out in the lobby. Gordon loves the FiftyNorth family. It’s important to him that everyone belongs and everyone matters. He wants more people to join, but always encourages prospective members to visit twice. Once for the official tour (which he often gives himself ), and once to observe. “The second visit is when the spirit of the place reveals itself.” At 87, Gordon’s life advice is simple and deeply lived: “Stay connected. Whether with your grandchildren, friends, neighbors, connection is the key to longevity.” He is inspired by those around him, especially Craig and Tom Vosper. He says, “Their perseverance through personal challenges motivates [me] to keep going.” He lives by the motto his father taught him over 70 years ago while learning to drive a tractor on his family farm in Blue Earth County , “If we take care of this land, it will take care of us.” The same applies at FiftyNorth: If we take care of our family, the family will take care of us.

COMMUNITY CLASSES

LIFE LONG LEARNING Pre-register for all classes: Phone: 507-664-3700

Online: FiftyNorth.org/classes In Person: FiftyNorth front desk

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026 PLEASE PRE-REGISTER AND CHECK-IN FOR ALL CLASSES no matter your membership levels. It is also important to check-in at the front desk when you arrive for your class. We use attendance data for grant applications, insurance reimbursement, space planning and determining whether or not to cancel a class. Scholarships are available to help defray the cost of classes for those who find the cost a financial hardship.

SPANISH 1 - SECOND YEAR FALL SESSION

Every Monday and Wednesday at 10:00-11:00am September 21, 23, 28, 30, October 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28, November 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30, December 3, 7, 9, 14 (25 sessions) Instructor: Chris Kauffeld · Capacity: 6 minimum, 15 maximum Space: Room 106 · Cost: $250 Registration deadline: September 14 Students will continue to work their way through the Realidades 1 Spanish textbook (available for $20 from the instructor or can be ordered on-line). The course will start with a quick review of unit 6A and then continue on from there, covering commands, the present progressive, the simple past and more stem-changing and irregular verbs in the present. Vocabulary will focus on chores, dwelling units, shopping, vacations and recycling.”

SOUTH AFRICAN TRAVEL TALK

Wednesday, October 14 1:00-3:00pm Instructor: David Johnston Capacity: 40 Cost: Free Space: Room 102 Registration deadline: October 12 David Johnston, from Jeanie’s Journeys Tours & Travel, will share videos, pictures, history & cultural insights from a tour he and his wife led to South Africa in January 2026. FiftyNorth members Brenda Bultman & Darla DeLong will also share their experiences and pictures from the tour.

COFFEE WITH FIFTYNORTH MANAGEMENT STAFF Tuesday, September 22 8:30-9:30am Location: Lobby The FiftyNorth Management Staff will be present in the lobby for coffee and casual conversation on a monthly basis going forward. Join us to ask questions, gain insights about the team, or simply engage in light-hearted chatter with the management staff.

Please stop by!

CPR and FIRST AID Tuesday, September 22 9:00am-12:00pm Instructor: Jon Bolster Capacity: 10 Cost: $72 non-member, $65 member, $0 platinum Space: Room 105 Students will receive expert training in First Aid and Basic Life Support CPR (adult) including Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). This 3-hour class includes instruction, demonstrations and hands-on activities and culminates in the students earning an American Heart Card. It is appropriate training for Certified Nurse Assistants, healthcare workers, childcare workers, teachers, instructors, and volunteers. Many health care facilities require this training of their employees.

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

COMMUNITY CLASSES

Lunch

Learn LUNCH AND LEARN - TOPIC: TIPS ON HOW TO PREP YOUR GARDEN FOR WINTER Tuesday, September 22 12:00-1:00pm Instructors: Sharon Boisselle & Kim Reis Capacity: 4 minimum, 20 maximum Cost: $10 nonmember, $8 member, $0 Platinum Space: Room 102 Registration deadline: September 11

“How do I put my garden to bed for winter? Should I cut my plants down or leave them until spring? Should I still be watering? Join two Master Gardeners to talk about these topics and more. Learn how to make your garden even better next year by starting now.” Bring your own sack lunch. Water will be provided.

formerly the Senior Linkage Line MEDICARE 101 Tuesday, September 29 1:00-2:00pm

Presenters: *Minnesota Aging Pathways Capacity: 50 Cost: Free Space: Room 103 This class is open to the community in collaboration with Age Friendly Northfield Medicare can be complicated, but Minnesota Aging Pathways is here to help. Whether you’ve been on Medicare for a few years and just need a refresher, or you’re brand new to Medicare, Medicare 101 will help you understand the basics so you can manage your health care options. Pre-registration is requested for all classes online, in person at the FiftyNorth front desk, or phone: 507-664-3700 *Minnesota Aging Pathways is a free, statewide service of the Minnesota Board on Aging in partnership with Minnesota’s area agencies on aging. Minnesota Aging Pathways helps older Minnesotans and caregivers find answers and connect to the services and support they need.

“WHEN MY TIME COMES” WITH DIANE REHM a PBS Film followed by discussion on Medical Aid in Dying Tuesday, September 22 1:30-3:00pm

Presenters: End of Life Choices Collective (EOLCC) Capacity: 25 Cost: Free Space: Room 103 Intriguing Informing. Illuniating. What are our end-of-life options for the terminally ill? The film will be shown again on Wednesday, October 14 from 1:30-3:00pm Hosted by: End of Life Choices Collective Understanding Medical Aid in Dying(https:// whenmytimecomesmovie.com/).

ADVANCE CARE PLANNING OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, October 7 1:30-3:00pm

Presenters: End of Life Choices Collective (EOLCC) Capacity: 10 Cost: Free Space: Room 103 Drop in anytime during our 90-minute Open House. Engage in 1-to- private conversations. Get answers and start, review, or complete you Healthcare Directive. traned facilitators and a notary make it easy. Free and open to the public

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

THE ARTS Pre-register for all classes: Phone: 507-664-3700 Online: FiftyNorth.org/classes In Person: FiftyNorth front desk

PLEASE PRE-REGISTER AND CHECK-IN FOR ALL CLASSES no matter your membership levels. It is also important to check-in at the front desk when you arrive for your class. We use attendance data for grant applications, insurance reimbursement, space planning and determining whether or not to cancel a class. Scholarships are available to help defray the cost of classes for those who find the cost a financial hardship.

INTRO TO QUILLING Tuesday, September 15 1:00-3:00pm

Capacity: 4 minimum, 12 maximum Space: Room 103 Cost: $30 nonmember, $26 member, $10 platinum Registration deadline: September 8 Curious about the age-old art of paper quilling? Learn how to turn simple looking paper strips into beautiful art. Paper quilling involves paper strips that are rolled, curled, pinched, and manipulated in other ways to create designs. In this class your instructor will introduce you to the techniques and you will go home with one or more small note cards/gift tags. Instructor: Karla Kuisle

MINIATURE KITES Wednesday, September 23 10:00am-12:00pm

You can see a few examples of her tiny kites in the case in the gallery, and accompanying the poem “Cheers!”. The kites will fly indoors just by walking with them, and outdoors if not too much wind.

Instructor: Cheryl Ramette Capacity: 4 minimum, 12 maximum In the event we do not meet minimum capacity we may have to cancel this class Space: Room 105 Cost: $40 nonmember, $34 member, $10 Platinum -- Materials will be provided. Registration deadline: September 16

Miniature kites have been around for many centuries, first introduced from China around 750 AD, then becoming more refined during the Edo period in Japan from 1603-1867. The instructor for this class first became aware of them in 2008 when checking out a kite flying festival at Waterfront Park in Portland, OR, where a kite flyer had a small box filled with tiny, beautifully decorated kites that flew! She was bedazzled. Over the past couple of decades she’s occasionally dabbled with making one herself that can fly, most recently with her current favorite medium, tea bags. Join Cheryl for a morning of miniature kite making using patterns for reliable-flying miniature kites.

THE JAPANESE ART OF SUMI-E PAINTING Thursday, September 24 1:00-2:30pm

Capacity: 4 minimum, 10 maximum Cost: $35 nonmember, $30 member, $10 Platinum Space: Room 105 Registration deadline: September 17 The Japanese art of Sumi-e is painting on paper using a brush, ink, and water. It is simple but represents the most complex model. Create a variety of paintings that include animals, flowers, and nature such as bamboo, which symbolizes flexibility, strength, and longevity. Join us to learn techniques of painting and experience capturing the timeless beauty and the source of life and nature. Instructor: Sayaka Yamazaki

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

CREATIVE REFRESH: ART SUPPLY SWAP! Wednesday, September 23

1:30-3:30pm Location: Room 105 During Art Club Have half-used paint tubes sitting in your closet? Extra canvases gathering dust? Or maybe you’re itching to try a new medium like printmaking or watercolors without breaking the bank? Bring what you don’t use and leave with inspiration for your next project! Join us for a fun, community-focused Art Supply Swap—a great way to declutter your studio, discover new tools, and connect with fellow creatives. 

What to Bring (Swap Guidelines)

To make sure everyone gets a great selection, please follow these quick guidelines: Great items to swap: •Paints (tubes/jars with plenty left and lids sealed tight) •Brushes in good, usable shape •Sketchbooks, drawing papers, or unused canvases •Pastels, markers, colored pencils, and ink •Sculpting tools, palettes, easels, and craft supplies Please skip: •Completely dried-out paints or glue •Brushes with stiff, ruined bristles •Broken equipment or tiny scraps of paper too small to reuse Check out Art Club while you are at the Art Supply Swap. Art Club meets every 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 1:30 to 3:30.

THE NATURE OF WRITING Tuesdays, October 13, 20, 27 3:30-5:00pm

Instructor: Marlais Brand Capacity: 15 Cost: This class is free. I invite folks with the means to donate $35 to FiftyNorth in lieu of a class fee, and in honor of our terrific volunteers. Space: Room 105

17 KNIT A COZY COWL - ALL SKILL LEVELS ARE WELCOME Wednesdays, October 7, 14 10:00am-12:00pm

Instructor: Diane Pearsall Capacity: 4 minimum, 10 maximum In the event we do not meet minimum capacity we may have to cancel this class Cost: $70 nonmember, $60 member, $20 Platinum Space: Room 102 Registration deadline: September 30 Winter is coming sooner than you think. Will you be warm enough? Does your neck ache when it’s cold out? Knit a cozy, soft, snuggly cowl to keep you warm! This class is for beginners, those wanting to renew their skills, and experienced knitters looking for a quick project. There will be homework! You’ll knit the cowl in the round with 2 colors of Cielo Yarn, a blend of Alpaca and Merino that is unbelievably soft against your skin. There are 3 pattern variations to choose from according to your skill level. Even though the cowl may look complicated, this class is appropriate for real beginners. In the 1st class, beginners will learn the knit stitch and how to knit in the round. But you will spend most of the class knitting the actual cowl! More experienced knitters will choose their pattern and get started. In the 2nd class you’ll finish the cowl, model it, and celebrate. What do you need for the classes? Just bring a small scissors, some scrap paper and something to write with. The instructor will supply the yarn, needles, and stitch markers. She will even cast on for you to get you started! (2 sessions)

Love to write? Always wanted to start? Never thought about it? This offering is for you-- no writing experience necessary! I’m leading a mini series this fall that uses nature to catalyze your creativity and celebrate abundance. We’ll meet weekly for an interactive workshop to:  celebrate the season & natural world  connect with each other & our bodies  live in the present  experiment with writing for self-expression We’ll poke around our FiftyNorth backyard for a few minutes of each session, so dress for success.

ABOUT ME I’m a published author, and, in a previous life I taught fiction, poetry, rhetoric and art history at the University of Maryland, and The Field School. My book, The Hungry Coast, won the Midwest Book award, and, as a youngster I was featured in Scribner’s Best of the Fiction Workshops a few times. I hold BA, MA and MFA degrees in Literature and Writing. I’m also a certified trauma-informed coach and a Reiki master, and I love to bring mindfulness and somatic practices into teaching.

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER2026

AARP SMART DRIVER CLASSES

These courses are designed for the driver over age 50 to help discover how roads, cars, and you may have changed since you started driving. Learn eight driving strategies to make you a safer driver. Completion of this AARP Driver Safety course qualifies each student over age 55 (sometimes 50) a certificate redeemable for a discount on auto insurance premiums. Once you take this first-time course, you will then need to take a refresher course every 3 years to continue the discount. Please check with your insurance agent for age qualifications and renewal details. The cost of this class includes fees paid to AARP for the course. Location: Room 103 Fees: •$32 non-AARP Members, •$27 AARP Members; AARP Members please register in person or by phone (you will need your AARP member number) NOTE: *Please arrive at class 10-15 minutes early to complete AARP forms for insurance discounts before class starts AARP Smart Driving 4-hour Course Monday, September 14 9:00am-1:00pm

Peggy Pfister Peggy Pfister is like a swiss army knife - she takes on and crushes (succeeds at) a wide variety of activities, and she brings contagious energy, adaptability, wonderful collaboration, and laughter and fun to even ordinary projects. She has been instrumental in getting going and running a vibrant eBay operation at UAB, and is organized and efficient and an energy whirlwind. What a gift she is to UAB and FiftyNorth - she’s a great part of our team. Read below what inspires Peggy to volunteer. After retiring from Carleton, I was looking for a new way to volunteer when I came across the Used-A-Bit opportunity during a Google search. I have volunteered for other organizations in the past, including the Red Cross, Northfield’s CAC Food Shelf, two townhouse Boards, and a church Board. Volunteering at Used-A-Bit has been my favorite. I started at Used-A-Bit in November and first learned to process donations, price items for sale, and run the cash register. In January, I started posting items on eBay, and I post weekly specials and other notices on our Facebook page. I love the variety, and the wonderful volunteers I have met make Used-A-Bit a great place. — Peggy Pfister

AARP Smart Driving 4-hour Course Thursday, October 15 1:00-5:00pm AARP Smart Driving 4-hour Course Friday, November 13 9:00am-1:00pm AARP Smart Driving 4-hour Course Monday, December 7 9:00-1:00pm

BINGO! MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21 11:00am-12:00pm $1 Group fee applies Room: 103

Shop Used-a-Bit on eBay!

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER2026 CONNECTION COLLECTION

SEASON FOR THE SEASONED SINGERS E H T S I T ’

The Seasoned Singers, directed by Donna May, will soon begin rehearsals. If you enjoy singing without having to commit to an entire year of numerous rehearsals, but would like to spread some holiday cheer, then consider joining us. No formal audition is required. You do not have to be a member of FiftyNorth to participate, so don’t hesitate to bring a friend. There is a small fee of $10 to cover the cost of music.

Interested? Have questions? LISA OLSON: ”I have loved dolls since I can remember. As a child I had baby dolls and then discovered antique dolls.” VIEW LISA’S DOLL COLLECTION IN THE LOBBY THROUGH SEPTEMBER.

Contact Donna May at 507-649-7399 dmay@churchofsaintagnes.org or simply show up at the first rehearsal and try us out!

There are only 7 Rehearsals!!!!!!!! Tuesdays, 4:00—5:30pm Oct. 6, 13, 20,27, Nov 10, 17, 24. Performance for the FiftyNorth Holiday Celebration on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 1:00PM

GROUP ACTIVITIES ARTS / CRAFT - Art Club ARTS / CRAFT - Hook, Yarn & Needle ARTS / CRAFT - Knitting Group ARTS / CRAFT - Photography Group CARDS - "Chat" Bridge CARDS - 500 CARDS - Cribbage CARDS - Double Deck Pinochle CARDS - Duplicate Bridge CARDS - Euchre CARDS - Sanctioned Duplicate Bridge CARDS - Social Bridge GAMES - American Mahjongg GAMES - BINGO MISC - Book Club MISC - History Group MUSIC - Chime Choir MUSIC - Troubadours Men's Choir MUSIC - Ukulele Orchestra and Assorted Strings MUSIC - The Band Practice MUSIC - Seasoned Singers

Day Wednesdays, 2nd & 4th Tuesdays Mondays Fridays, 4th Wednesdays Fridays Thursdays Mondays Tuesdays Tuesdays Thursdays Wednesdays Fridays Mondays, 3rd Fridays, 2nd Fridays Thursdays Tuesdays Wednesdays, 1st, 3rd, 5th Mondays Tuesdays

Time 1:30-3:30pm 1:00-3:00pm 10:00am-12:00pm 9:30-11:30am 9:30-12:00pm 12:30-4:00pm 12:45-4:00pm 12:15-4:00pm 12:30-4:00pm 12:30-4:00pm 12:00-4:00pm 12:30-4:00pm 1:00-3:00pm 11:00a12:00pm 10:30-12:00pm 10:30-12:00pm 9:30-10:45am 10:00-11:30am 1:00-3:00pm 4:00-5:00pm 4:00-5:30pm

Location Room 105 Room 105 Room 105 Room 106 Room 104 Room 104 Room 106 Room 104 Room 104 Room 106 Room 104 Room 104 Room 106 Room 103 Room 102 Room 104 Room 103 Room 103 Room 103 Room 103 Room 103

FITNESS GROUPS Table Tennis Water Volleyball Softball Games / Practice Pedalers & Walkers Walking Group Senior Bowling Club

Mon, Tue, Thur, Sat Mondays & Fridays Tuesdays & Thursdays Mondays & Wednesdays Mondays Fridays

Check Schedule 4:00-5:45pm 10:00am Mornings 9:00-10:00am 1:30-3:30pm

Fitness Studio Pool Sechler Park Field Varies Carleton Arb Flahertys

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER2026

Now is your chance to learn about Mahjongg!

LEARN HOW TO PLAY AMERICAN MAHJONGG Friday, September 18 1:00-3:00pm Space: Room 106 Cost: $1 group fee applies Discover the Thrill of American MahJongg!

Unwind, sharpen your mind, and connect with fellow players by learning one of the world’s most engaging tile games. American MahJongg combines strategy, skill, and a touch of luck into a fast-paced and social experience. If you’ve been thinking about learning to play MahJongg but feel a little intimidated, there will be experienced players available willing to teach you how to play.

September

THIS BOOK MADE ME THINK OF YOU by Libby Page When Tilly Nightingale receives a call telling her there’s a birthday gift from her husband waiting for her at her local bookshop, it couldn’t come as more of a shock. Partly because she can’t remember the last time she read a book for pleasure. But mainly because Joe died five months ago….

Non-medical Senior Home Care • Companion Care • Errands • Tech Support To do Lists and more...

Stacey Greer theneighborlady.com • 612-839-2286 Serving Northfield and Cannon Falls communities

Coming up next! October THE AUTHENTICITY PROJECT by Clare Pooley November THEO OF GOLDEN by Allen Levi

The Book Club meets the 2nd Friday of the month at 10:30 in room 102. ($1 group fee applies) Questions: call Katherine Collman at (507) 645-1357.

FIFTYNORTH TRAVEL

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

TRAVEL

NOTE: *Trip leaders are unable to provide assistance to anyone that has limited mobility or that uses a wheelchair. Please arrange to have a friend or PCA pay and register to go with and assist you. Please indicate on your registration form if you need seating in a handicap section.

In the event you have to cancel out of a trip after the registration deadline, you will not receive a refund, unless someone is able to go in your place. If you are not on the bus within 10 minutes of the departure time on the return trip home, you will be responsible for finding your own ride back to FiftyNorth. If you wish to go on a trip and find that it is out of your price range, please inquire in the office about a scholarship.

TRIP - TOWN AND AROUND Sunday, September 6 2:00-4:00pm

Trip Leader: Kim Reis Capacity: 30 Cost: Food & Beverage purchases are on your own Space: Meet at Keepsake Cidery – transportation is on your own Address: 4609 135th St. E, Dundas Registration deadline: September 3 *Please pre-register so we know how many to make the reservation for. KEEPSAKE CIDERY Meet your FiftyNorth friends and enjoy a Sunday afternoon of locally made beverages and live music. Keepsake Cidery crafts delicious, high-quality cider, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages using locally farmed and foraged ingredients. By employing timehonored techniques and allowing the native yeast to ferment, their natural ciders and wines embody the place and the season. Music provided by Dimestore Watch Dimestore Watch (often referred to as a band) is a local Americana, roots-rock, and alt-country group led by Jerry Johnson. Active around the Twin Cities and Northfield, Minnesota area, they frequently cover deeper cuts from the American roots and singer/ songwriter songbook.

TRIP - STILLWATER RIVER BOAT CRUISE Wednesday, September 16 9:30am-3:15pm

Trip Leader: Kim Reis Capacity: 30 Cost: $95 – Includes the bus, boat and lunch Registration deadline: September 10 Welcome aboard our Stillwater River boat cruise! Experience the beauty of this National Parkway, the scenic St. Croix River from indoor comfort or on the viewing deck up top. A delightful lunch is included featuring a build your own sandwich, seasonal fruit, potato salad, and a cookie. Beverages are on your own. A cash bar is also available.

TRIP - LET’S MURDER MARSHA AT THE MANTORVILLE THEATRE COMPANY Sunday, October 18 10:45am-4:00pm Trip Leader: Norma Monroe Capacity: 10 minimum, 20 maximum

In the event we do not meet minimum capacity we may have to cancel. Cost: $75 Includes transportation in the YMCA van, food and performance. Registration deadline: October 1 A happy housewife named Marsha, hopelessly addicted to reading murder mysteries, overhears her loving husband discussing her upcoming birthday surprise. To her ears, though, it sounds like they are planning to murder her! What will Marsha do? How will the birthday surprise turn out? This is a terrific show for audiences who like their comedy broad, fast, and nonstop. This show is a dinner theatre which means audience members will eat their meal at tables while watching the show at the theatre! Our dinner will be provided by Hidden Pines Bar & Grill. The meal of salad & breadsticks, baked ziti (with beef ) and/or chicken alfredo, and mini cheesecakes or gluten-free chocolate cake will be served assisted buffet style. Water will be available. A cash bar will also be available with seltzers/pop/beer/wine (only cash and credit cards are accepted).

TRAVEL

FiftyNorth Report SEPTEMBER 2026

TRIP - CHASKA CURLING CENTER Thursday, November 12 2:45-8:00pm Trip Leader: Jim Pence Capacity: 34 Cost: $60 Registration deadline: November 5

Precision, teamwork and strategy. Step into the world of Curling. The Chaska Curling Club is housed in the Chaska Event Center. A large multipurpose facility south west of the Twin Cities. They boast of six “sheets” of ice and 1,000 members. Curling year round. Upon arrival we will be greeted by Clay Orvik, the Curling and Event Center Supervisor. Clay will give us a brief tour of the facility which should include walking around the sheets of ice on a carpeted wooden walkway. We will not be on the actual ice. It’ll be chilly and cold enough to keep the ice frozen. About 40-46 degrees. Clay will give us an overview of what Curling is. The rules, history, rocks, brooms, sliding, teams (rinks), goal of the game and how to score. Once the tour and tutorial are finished, we should be able to grab a bite to eat from the newly remodeled Copperfield’s restaurant. You can choose to eat your meal in the restaurant overlooking the ice, or you may take your meal and “sit at the glass” on benches overlooking the games from inside the warm room area adjacent to the restaurant tables. All very close to each other. This was would be easiest to enjoy a game while you eat. It’s your choice.

The cost of the meal is on your own.

TRIP - OZARK JUBILEE BRANSON COUNTRY CHRISTMAS AT TREASURE ISLAND Wednesday, November 4 10:30am-5:00pm

100 Credit Receive a

for your Avalon or Viking Cruise when you book with

JEAN THARES

(651) 395-8181 Jean.Thares@CruisePlanners.com

$100 will be applied as shipboard credit. Offer is per cabin based on double occupancy. One offer per reservation. Must redeem at time of booking and is only valid on new bookings reserved between 03/01/2026 and 12/31/2026 with Jean Thares. Shipboard credits are valid for onboard use. No cash value.

JourneysByJean.com  Jean.Thares@CruisePlanners.com Call or email to start planning your next unforgettable vacation!

Trip Leader: Michelle Brant Capacity: 30 Cost: $115 – Includes lunch, performance & transportation by Benjamin Bus, Inc. Registration deadline: October 1 Direct from BRANSON the OZARK JUBILEE features an all-star cast of Branson’s top entertainers. This year presenting, “AN ALL NEW CHRISTMAS SHOW”, WITH NEW MUSIC, NEW JOKES, but the same, WORLD CLASS TALENT THAT YOU HAVE COME TO EXPECT! This year the OZARK JUBILEE will be honoring and paying tribute to our VETERANS, and thanking them for their SPECIAL SERVICE. The entire second half of the show is a total variety of Christmas music. From traditional standards you’ll remember such as Silent Night, White Christmas and many more to some more contemporary Christmas selections. They will share with you the TRUE meaning of Christmas with music, comedy and message to provide a day of entertainment that will touch your heart. *Lunch is included in the price - 2-slices of turkey, mashed potatoes & gravy, dressing, corn, rolls, assorted bars and coffee.

FiftyNorth Report | SEPTEMBER 2026

SERVICES

MAY DONORS & NEW MEMBERS TECH SUPPORT

BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS Tuesdays 8:00-9:00am Location: Consult Room

Former RN Beth Endert will be available to do blood pressure checks each Tuesday from 8-9am in the Consult Room (across from the Management office).

MORE HELP FOR MEDICARE OPTIONS 1st Tue every month 12:00-3:00pm Space: FiftyNorth Consult Room Enrollment Help For Medicare Options Whether new to Medicare or considering a Medigap plan, receive assistance from licensed local and independent insurance agent Sandra Robertson. Available for help with: ~Plan analysis and review ~Assistance in enrolling when eligible ~No cost or obligation Stop by or call for appointment. Sandra Robertson, licensed Insurance Agent, # 20381956, Phone:952-484-5723 sandra@sigbrokers.com

TWINKLE TOES 2nd Monday every month

Call to make an appointment: (507) 664-3700 Servicing Northfield and surrounding communities. By appointment at FiftyNorth. Twinkle Toes provides high-quality professional foot care to clients in the communities we serve. Our mission is to give your feet optimum care in the comfort of your own home or office. We offer home foot care services you can trust at prices you can afford! 507-663-0100 | www.twinkletoes.us/ | laurie.twinkletoes@ yahoo.com

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP usually the 2nd Thursday each month

1:30-2:30pm 2026 Scheduled Dates September 10, October 8, November 19, December 17 Facilitator: Kathy Voss, Certified Caregiving Consultant & Dementia Practitioner Capacity: 20 Cost: Free Space: Generally Room 103, but check daily schedule Join our monthly Caregiver Support group at FiftyNorth. Learn, share, listen, laugh and gain strength and understanding alongside other care partners.

2nd Tuesday every month 9:30-11:30am Space: Consult Room Richard DeBeau, longtime FiftyNorth member will be available to assist members who have questions about their computers, laptops, cell phones, iPads, cameras, or similar devices. He has twenty years of experience building computers as a hobby and has installed Windows and Linux systems on his home computers. He has limited experience with Apple desktop computers. If Richard is not able to solve a problem, he will have suggestions for finding help. Consultant: Richard DeBeau

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP 2nd Tue every month 1:00-2:30pm Capacity: 20 Cost: FREE Space: Room 103 *Please pre-register Join with others in a safe, confidential, and supportive environment for afternoon coffee and an opportunity to make connections, share personal stories and coping strategies with others experiencing grief. This is a 3-month, limited-time support group. You may choose to attend one, two, or all three sessions! Anyone ages 18+ dealing with the loss of a loved one is welcome to attend. We are hoping people will come and then we will be able to extend this beyond 3 months! Presented by: Three Rivers Community Action and Minnesota Hospice

THREE RIVERS COMMUNITY ACTION OLDER ADULT SERVICES SPECIALIST 3rd Wed every month 12:30-2:30pm Space: Consult Room A Three Rivers Community Action Older Adult Services Specialist will be available. Older Adult Services assist individuals aged 60 and older and their families with information, referrals, and resources that allow persons to remain healthy and independent in their homes and communities.

Official Media & Radio Partner of FiftyNorth’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

1651 Jefferson Pkwy, Northfield, MN 55057

FiftyNorth and its programs are made possible in part through support from the City of Northfield.

www.FiftyNorth.org

JULY DONORS & NEW MEMBERS

MEMBERHSIP TOTAL JULY 31, 2026 = 2135

JULY DONORS thank you for your support! Karen Achberger David Appleyard Nancy Ashmore & Kenneth Wedding Bernard & Mary Auge Lois Bakko Douglas Curwick & Paula Bonelli Marlais Brand George & Catherine Brophy Judy Broske Warren & Karen Broughton Mary Brown Vicki Celander Bernice Christensen Eileen Cooper Richard DeBeau & Doris Welke Neil & Marilyn Deden Gary & Connie DeGrote Kathy Eckstam-Ames Larry & JoAnn Edwardsen Chris Ellison David Emery Beth Endert John & Margaret Ernste Stephanie Frey Marie Gery

Mac & Jacquelyn Gimse Leota Goodney Delores Gustafson Dorothy Hammer George Henly Richard & Donna Jackson Tom Turgeant & Carla Johnson Gerald Johnson Sam & Patricia Johnson Steve & Ann Jorstad Patricia Jorstad Gary & Arlene Kruse Myron Lanoue Naurine Lennox Tom & Nancy Loesch Alvina Marek Carol Marshall Janell Martin Janet Mathews James & Angie Mayr Brynda McCoy Mike & Ann McGovern Diane Melbye

STAFF DIRECTORY  Executive Director:

Marlais Brand 507-664-3701 | marlais.brand@fiftynorth.org  Fitness Director: Facilities Manager Craig Swenson 507-664-3702 | craig.swenson@fiftynorth.org  Operations and Membership Manager: Elaine Meyers 507-664-3703 | elaine.meyers@fiftynorth.org  Marketing and Outreach Manager Patty Ciernia 507-664-3709 | patty.ciernia@fiftynorth.org  Community Programs and Events Manager Michelle Brant 507-664-3707 | michelle.loken@fiftynorth.org  Used-A-Bit Shoppe Manager: Fermin Notario Ponce 507-645-1399 | fermin.ponce@fiftynorth.org  Used-A-Bit Shoppe Assistant Manager: Deb Olien 507-645-1399 | deb.olien@fiftynorth.org

Elaine Meyers Mary Myos Pat Nelson Paul & Elinor Niemisto Susan Oftedahl Elizabeth Olson Raymond & Mary Ozmun Jane Persons Jim Pierret & Kathy Kramer Carol Rutz Kenneth & Sharon Steinhouse Craig Swenson Allan & Nancy Swenson Judith Tarabek Rich & Kathie Taranto Sandra Titus Pam Toepper Dale & Rose Turnacliff Anne Ulmer Timothy & Jean Vick Linda Wagenbach Sally Wincentsen

JULY NEW MEMBERS Richard Brinda, Karen Cherewatuk, Mike & Kris Dompierre, Heidi Erickson, Cemmy Gniffke, David & Linda Hellmich, Greg & Anngie Kleese, Stephen McKenzie, Marvin Perez, LaDonna Rice, Linda Ruddle

STAFF DIRECTORY Front Desk (Reception Staff): Phone: 507-664-3700 | Fax: 507-664-3720 Brenda Bultman, Dan Corcoran, Bonnie DuPay, JoAnn Edwardsen, Bonnie Eliason, Kay Marosi, Jane Persons, Pam Toepper

HOURS FiftyNorth: Hours: Monday–Friday: 6am–8pm Saturday: 7am–4pm Sunday: Closed Used-A-Bit Shoppe: (Donations by appointment) 624 Water Street, River Mall, 507-645-1399 Tuesday–Saturday: 10am–5pm Sunday & Monday: Closed

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