HomeMy WebLinkAboutPark and Recreation Advisory Commission Packet 04-12-2001Regular Meeting of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
April 12, 2001, 7 p.m.
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Minutes
3. Visitor Presentations
a. Athletic Associations
b. Staff
c. Others
4. Report on Past Council Action
5. Unfinished Business
a. Millennium Garden update
b. Hilde Performance Center update
c. Comprehensive plan presentation - Barry Warner
6. New Business
a. Senior program presentation - Sara Mittelstaedt
b. Volunteer program presentation - Nancy Anderson
7. Commission Presentation
8. Staff Communication
9. Adjourn
Next regular meeting - May 10, 2001
n\parks\staff\eric\prat\agendas\april.doc
Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting
March 8, 2001
Page 10
Present: Chair Anderson, Commissioners Fiemann, Meyer, Musliner, Singer; staff Blank,
Pederson, Peterson; George Watson of Brauer & Associates
Absent: Commissioner Thompson
Chair Anderson called the March meeting to order at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers.
PA W-11 N U M919 NKOYMM-1 LM -0
A motion was made by Commissioner Singer and seconded by Commissioner Musliner to
approve the minutes of the February meeting as presented. The motion carried with all ayes.
3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
a. Athletic Associations. None were present.
b. Staff. There were no presentations by staff.
c. Others. There were no other visitors.
4. PAST COUNCIL ACTION
The City Council accepted the PRAC 2000 annual report, approved Plymouth Creek Center
fees for 2001, and approved the electronic bulletin board to be installed on Plymouth
Boulevard & 36th Avenue in front of the Ice Center.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Millennium Garden update. Director Blank stated that we continue our fundraising. We
received a letter from Fingerhut, and we are receiving money from them. A playground
manufacturer may make a donation. Groundbreaking is set for May 21 at 6 p.m. March
and April water bills will include a letter from Mayor Tierney reminding residents to buy
bricks. Brick sale cut off is May 21, which will allow us time to get them inscribed.
Mayor Tierney is still out raising money. Douglas Own Pike is putting finishing touches
on plant materials. A lot of behind the scenes detail work is going on. George Watson of
Brauer and Associates then made a brief presentation. He had small versions of the
garden plan. He also distributed a list of planting materials. He pointed out where the
activity center building is located on the drawing. He explained that the garden is
between a built and natural environment. There will be a mix of built and natural spaces
to accommodate individual and group users. The plan is to bridge the gap between the
natural and the built. The gradation is going to be from the activity building out to the
grand lawn out to the natural area. One of the key areas is the water course. It will be
fairly natural with native plantings. It will be a very interesting area. He showed an image
of what the grand lawn may look like. He pointed out the dedication area and where the
PRAC Minutes/March 2001
Page 11
bricks will be placed in the pavement around the pond. The overall layout plan shows
what will be built. The grand lawn is in phase 1. There may be a fountain in the pond.
There will be a wrought iron fence separating the grand lawn area from the dedication
area. This will also be a backdrop for the roses. All the stone walls will be masonry.
There will be benches to sit on to view activities taking place on the grand lawn and they
will also look out over Plymouth Creek Park. There's going to be a lot of rock areas.
There will be three different levels of water areas. This water system can be built in
phases. Singer asked if this is going to be visible from the second floor of the activity
center. Director Blank says you will see the upper level of it, but you would need to go
out on the deck to see the whole thing. The overall garden concept is one of providing
people with an example of how you can use nature in the landscape. The outer most
portion will be native materials. There will be an area for perennials and annuals as well.
These may be designed by those wishing to donate the materials. We wanted these folks
to have a hand in designing. Dundee Nursery has agreed to take a portion of the garden as
their donation and their designers will design it, but it has to match the rest of the area.
Meyer asked about an area that was hard to decipher from the plan. George said it tells
how many plants and what type they are. Mark Peterson has a set of full size plant plans
and a plant material key. It's different types of herbaceous materials. Singer asked about
an area in the drawings called Prairie Creek Center. Watson explained that it was a error
and should be labeled Plymouth Creek Center.
b. Hilde Performance Center update. Director Blank explained that the City Council is
having a work session on the 20th of March prior to their Council meeting. Mr. Hilde will
be meeting with the construction people. The Planning Department is going ahead with
environmental assessment worksheet. Mr. Hilde was convinced that a basement is
necessary, but he will not pay for an elevator. The basement will be unfinished at this
time. That will be City's responsibility. There will be handicapped access from the lower
level to upper level.
c. Greenwood School field improvements. Bids will be opened on April 3. The plan is to
begin construction on May 1. The Forestry department will begin clearing trees. We'll
put up a temporary fence to keep the kids away from the construction area. The
associations have been asked to get their contributions in as soon as possible.
6. NEW BUSINESS
a. Review environmental park playground location. Director Blank reviewed the history of
this project for the Commission and the visitors. This walking neighborhood is bounded
by 494 on the east, Fernbrook on the west, County Road 9 on the south, and Schmidt
Lake Road on the north. In 1984 residents asked to have the neighborhood park
expanded. Neighborhood parks are typically 8-12 acres in size. The Park Commission
toured the site and did recommend expanding acquisition in this area. For the past 15
years we have been acquiring additional property. About four years ago, the Council
authorized acquisition of the north piece. The entire property now totals about 80 acres.
Director Blank showed the outline of the area using the overhead camera. None of the
residential developments were there at that time. There is a Lundgren Bros. development
on the north with townhouses in between. The parcel to the north in the official plan
PRAC Minutes/March 2001
Page 12
shows four small baseball fields, and a walking path leading to the cul—de—sac, a future
outdoor education center, and parking lot. In the comprehensive plan this is listed as a
special use park. This wasn't part of the open space plan. The secondary purpose is to
serve as a neighborhood park. In the plan the playground is to be in a clearing about
halfway between the north and south entrance. A trail will come down from the north.
The plan is to bring all trails to the children's playground area. Director Blank displayed
a plan for the play structure. The playground is 112 feet long and 79 feet wide. There
would be two pieces of equipment designed for ages 2-5 and ages 6-12. This is a typical
installation. We have 25 similar playgrounds elsewhere throughout the city. It is all
handicapped accessible, with an appropriate surface to meet ADA requirements. There is
an undeveloped piece of property to the north. Director Blank anticipates that 10-20 acres
will be developed in the future. He said we can postpone construction to see if we can
acquire any additional park land. The second option is to look at a more northerly site for
the playground, which moves it a greater distance away. It is also very secluded by
woods. Staff is not comfortable with this option. The third option is to go further south.
This would require a fair amount of tree removal. This is why staff chose the clear area
for the playground. Feimann asked where the nearest other park is. Turtle Lake park is
about five blocks west. The playground area is about an acre in size. An acre is 100 x 400
feet. Singer asked if the yellow square is just for the playground. Director Blank said yes
and pointed out where the ball fields will be. Meyer asked about use. Director Blank said
when a playground is brand new it receives the most heavy use. Typically moms with
pre—school kids come and stay about 45 minutes. They visit in small groups. Anderson
asked about the area to the west of the yellow square. Director Blank said the townhouses
went in around 1989. Meyer questioned what's in the yellow squared area now. Director
Blank displayed some photographs showing what this area presently looks like. The trail
that runs between the townhouses will be asphalt. There is a trail already there to a
certain point. Our property starts 100 feet downhill from the edge of the trees. The
property starts 150 feet from the townhouses. Park Superintendent Peterson said this is
the flattest portion of the property. Musliner asked if anyone wants the playground at this
time. Director Blank said we have received some calls and letters from people asking
about it. It is in the CIP for this year. People paid park dedication for this when they
purchased their property. Chair Anderson invited citizens to speak.
Don Pfaffe, 14005 44th Place. He contacted Mark and subsequently Mark visited his
home to answer his questions. They appreciated the fact that the City bought this land. He
doesn't have any objection to the playground. He does quite a bit of walking in the area.
He agrees that playgrounds are used by families with small children.
Jason Glashan, 14000 44th Place. He did not receive the first letter about the project, but
he did get a second letter. He is concerned with the parking issue. He knows people will
drive to the park. He was told this is pretty much a done deal. Another concern is how
many children are actually in the area that will be using the facility. He lives west of
where the playground would be going up, in the building along side the walking path.
Beverly Romfo, 14215 44th Place. She is grateful for all the information she received.
This has been discussed at their board meeting. She doesn't think there are more than one
PRAC Minutes/March 2001
Page 13
or two children in the area, She wanted to know when the rest of the trails will be built. A
major concern is a three season porch on one of the buildings that is very near one of the
trail accesses. She is also concerned about the wildlife being forced out.
Shirley Galvin, 14000 44th Place. She has served on the Fernbrook Manor board for five
years. There are 102 homes in Fernbrook Manor with only two children. These units are
not geared to families. People are upset about it. The general feeling from homeowners is
that the playground will impact them in a negative way. The area is very private,
peaceful, quiet, and good for watching the wildlife. She has done several homeowner
surveys about what people like about living there and those are the answers they give.
The neighborhoods with kids to the north and south are pretty far away. She thinks those
people will not walk that far to get to the playground. There are no bathroom facilities.
Some homes to the west already have a park nearby. If they come to this park, they will
walk across yards. This site is very close to their building.
Tracy Craton, 14000 44th Place. She has one of the two kids living in the area. Her son
is 11 and says he would not use the facility. She is concerned that the area's homeowners
would be the ones watching what's going on, rather than the parents of the small
children. Children do not observe property lines very well. She feels the playground
should be moved closer to where children will live. She asked her son how he feels about
playground, and he isn't in favor of it. He prefers to play in the wooded area there. She
stated that people will have to walk through wooded areas to get to this playground.
Lee Hermanson, 14010 44th Place. He lives in Fernbrook Manor right on the edge of
proposed park area. Are people going to walk across his lawn or will they use the path? It
would be more direct for people to walk on his property. He'd like to see area remain the
way it is.
Dan Schuh, 14010 44th Place. He lives in Fernbrook Manor and has the same concerns as
everyone else. He thinks a spot to the north should be considered. The paved path that
goes in there now is through an area that is only 30 to 40 feet wide. He thinks many trees
would have to be cut down. He brought up the bathroom issue, also.
Arlette Parnell, 14000 44th Place. She is one of the unit owners. She has the three season
porch. At the end of the pathway is a deep ravine. She says some trees will have to be cut
down. She wants project moved where it's more suitable or delayed.
Karen Minge, 14020 44th Place. She has one concern — parties by teenagers in this area.
Linda Bliss, 14020 44th Place. She lives in an end unit looking down on the park. Has
seen up to 12 deer in this area. Her neighbor who lives below her has seen a red fox. She
doesn't want to see area ruined. Fiemann asked her when she sees the deer. She said at
sunrise until about 8:30 sometimes. She fears that the deer will leave if the playground
goes in.
PRAC Minutes/March 2001
Page 14
Director Blank addressed the concerns raised by the residents. He explained that only one
in four neighborhoods usually has parking. Neighborhood parks are generally designed as
a walk—to facility. The idea is to locate parks within three to four blocks of where people
live, so they can walk there. It hasn't been our experience that parking is a problem in
neighborhood parks. We do not know how many kids are living here, but when census
data comes in we'll have a better idea. We did budget $90,000 this year for trail upgrade.
We plan to put in all three trails. We will be crossing the Fluidyne property. He stated
that our experience is that the wildlife will not leave. The driveway from Schmidt Lake
Road may lead to a building that would serve as the education center. Director Blank
explained that this site was pristine before the houses were built. The wildlife resettled
after these homes were constructed. There's a herd of 22 deer living around City Hall.
The ultimate development of this property over the next 10 years will be for outdoor
education. Our practices have been to encourage wildlife to remain. Regarding bathrooms
we do not put in electricity, etc. A satellite would be placed here about 10 weeks out of
the year. Visitors are usually small children with moms who stay about an hour. Safety is
our number one concern. The nature of our society today is such that we can't afford to
put things in isolated sites. We rely on the local neighborhood to take care of the kids.
We prefer not to move the playground to a more isolated site. We use the crime watch
philosophy — neighbors watching neighbors. Police reserves are in the parks during the
summer months along with park patrols.
Shirley Galvin asked for clarification on the wildlife — she thinks they will move where
the residents will be unable to enjoy them once the playground is installed. Director
Blank said the deer are always standing around by the fieldhouse every evening at
sundown. They have gotten used to the people coming and going. Mark manages the deer
herds for the City. He stated that from time to time they have to be removed.
Mark said all of our playgrounds have woodchip surfaces. The central path that comes
through will be asphalt. An example of a very similar park in northeastern Plymouth is
Three Ponds Park, south of County Road 10, east of Zachary Lane. We have learned that
the wildlife adapts. Our deer are completely urbanized.
Don Pfaffe stated that his family moved here about 40 years ago. Prior to that they biked
to this area. He said he has no fear about the wildlife moving away.
Singer explained to the residents that every member of the Park Commission is a citizen
of the city. She explained that she makes her recotrunendations based on where or not she
would want this in her neighborhood. She then asked Mark if the topography can handle
moving this 50 feet to the south. Mark said there is a ditch that might be a problem. A lot
of trees would have to be removed, and then the playground would be in a more secluded
spot.
Anderson talked about the issue of the trees. Fiemann agreed that no trees should be cut.
Musliner asked for an explanation of the ball fields. Director Blank pointed out the
intersection of Schmidt Lake Road and 494. The City has acquired property on all four
PRAC Minutes/March 2001
Page 15
corners here. There is a diamond interchange here shown by the City. The Federal
highway plan does not show an interchange here. The Carlson interchange was not shown
on the Federal interchange plan either. The Ess family owned this property and wanted to
develop it, but sewer was not available at the time. They requested a lift station, but it
was denied by the City. They were told they would have to wait for gravity sewer. The
Council was split on the issue of the interchange. The Ess's wanted the City to buy their
property. The Council was not comfortable buying land if it was only going to be used
for an interchange. They wanted to know if there was some other way to use the property,
so the City hired George Watson to come up with a plan for this area. A feasibility study
was done to show what else could go here besides the interchange. The Lundgren
development skirts the outer edge of the ball fields. The Council voted to acquire the
property. There may not be an answer on the interchange question for another 20 years.
The next thing PRAC will see for this property is a development plan for the outdoor
education center, perhaps within the next 10 years. This will be a place of learning for
boy scouts, girl scouts, school groups, etc. There are no imminent plans to build the ball
fields at this time. We would prefer to build the 10th playfield first.
Fiemann asked for an explanation of park entrances again, which Director Blank
reviewed.
Don Pfaffe asked again about the trail locations. The path that presently comes through is
very low. He can't conceive of anyone taking another route. Director Blank said we are
requesting an easement from the homeowner's association. We could add some type of
fencing to keep people from wandering off the intended trail onto private property.
Director Blank said that when the 20 acres to the north develops, we will get trail
easement from that development. More trail will be put on the east side of Fembrook
Lane.
Shirley Galvin agreed that the trail is lower for Don's building. However, it is even with
the other townhouse building, where she lives, so people using the trail will have sight
access to her personal townhouse unit.
Mark pointed out the existing path as it goes between two townhouse units. It would
follow the edge of the woods to the playground. Shirley Galvin asked for the approximate
location of the playground. Mark Peterson drew the proposed location on the map. It
would be 30 to 40 feet from the back of the building. Normally people travel three to four
blocks to a neighborhood park.
Anderson asked for feedback from comniissioners. Fiemann is the parent of a 9 and 6
year old. His kids do not go to parks unsupervised. They live 114 mile from their park. At
most, they visit the park for about 112 hour. He likes the idea of not tearing down trees to
build a park. If the park gets moved in either direction, it will be that much farther from
one end or the other. He is concerned about how close the path will come to the property
with the porch. Landscaping will help with that.
PRAC Minutes/March 2001
Page lb
Musliner asked if anyone commented from the north or south. Mark Peterson said no.
Fiemann is not concerned about any adverse effect on wildlife. He feels this is the best
location. Musliner stated that she drove through the site and met with one of the
neighbors. She lives near two parks. She has witnessed people going to parks and they
respect people's property. She doesn't feel comfortable making a decision right now,
however.
From PRAC this issue goes to the City Council. Director Blank said we will continue to
go forward if the Council gives approval. We can also look at alternatives. Several
residents are still under the impression that this project is going forward. If we decide to
postpone it, we need to notify the many residents who expect this project to begin in
June.
Singer asked about postponing it one or two months. Director Blank said we could still
build it in the fall. This would give commissioners more time to go look at the site and
make a more informed decision. Anderson agrees with postponing. He also agrees that
the deer will not be disturbed and concurs that the park should not be in an isolated area.
SINGER MOVED TO POSTPONE THIS ISSUE FOR A FINAL DECISION TO BE
MADE AT THE MAY 10 MEETING, ALLOWING COMMISSIONERS TO LOOK
INTO ALTERNATE OPTIONS. ANDERSON SECONDED. MOTION CARRIED
WITH ALL AYES.
b. Review City Council goals. Director Blank explained that the top seven are new goals
for the Council. Del Erickson will do a feasibility study on a third sheet of ice, which
should be completed by September. Singer asked for clarification on Goal #1. Director
Blank explained that the water resource fee is based on lot size. It is a new fee that will
start mid year. It will produce a significant amount of money. The Environmental Water
Quality Committee is working on this. It may take millions of dollars to improve the
water of Medicine Lake and Parkers Lake. Every lot in the City will be charged
something toward this endeavor. Some members of the Council want a transit hub. One
possible location was the southwest corner of 55 and 494, but that didn't fly, so new
possibilities are being studied. Anderson asked about the peninsula on Medicine Lake.
Director Blank said there is nothing going on with that. The traffic safety program
involves writing more speeding tickets. One of the major complaints the City receives
from residents is excessive speeding on city streets.
c. Rotary Club Fundraising Program. Director Blank stated that 10,000 plastic ducks will be
placed in the pond in the amphitheater and they will be propelled across the water. This is
a fund raising event for the Rotary Club. Director Blank wanted to know if the
Commission was comfortable with the Rotary Club using the pond for this purpose.
People will "adopt" a duck for $10 each. If all goes well, the Rotary Club gets $5 per
duck. They give the money back to the community. Three ducks will have a number on
the bottom. If one of those ducks gets into the winner's cage, it will be worth $1,000,000
to the person holding that number. There will be other prizes, as well. Singer said she was
comfortable using the pond for this purpose. The other commissioners concurred. This
PRAC Minutes/March 2001
Page 17
event will follow Plymouth on Parade, Director Blank expects that it may bring 10,000
additional people to the Parade event.
7. COMMISSION PRESENTATION
None.
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
Director Blank said the April meeting will probably be at the Plymouth Creek Center. Barry
Warner will be there to make a presentation on the comprehensive plan. Mary will run the
meeting, because Director Blank will be out of town. Meyer wanted to know if another letter
would be sent to the people interested in the Environmental Park. Director Blank said yes.
9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9;15 p.m.
U-,. Senior Grapevine
A Bimonthly Publication of the Plymouth Senior Services Office.
Cosponsored by Senior Community Services,
and The City of Plymouth.
Spring Issue Plymouth Senior Services April -May 2001
Plymouth Creek Center
Sara Mittelstnedt —Director 763-509-5280 John L. Sullivan, Editor
Senior Citizens
Property Tax Deferral
The Senior Citizen
Property Tax Defer-
ral Program was
established to help
l[q senior citizens who
were having diffi-
culty paying their
property taxes. This
deferral program has
two primary advantages for senior citizens.
1. It limits the maximum amount of property tax
you pay to 3 percent of your total household
income and,
2. It provides predictability. The amount of tax
you pay will not change for as long as you partici-
pate in this program.
What is it? The Senior Citizens Property Tax
Deferral program allows people 65 years of age or
older, whose household incomes are $60,000 or
less, to defer a portion of their property tax on
their home.
How does it work? This is not a tax forgiveness
program. It is a low interest loan from the state.
The deferred tax is paid by the state to your
county. Interest will be charged on this loan. The
interest rate will be adjusted annually, but will
never exceed 5 percent. A lien will attach to your
property. The amount of tax you pay is deter-
mined the year you enter the program. Your
annual income for the year preceding the year you
enter the program serves as the basis for how
Continued on next page)
Grapevine Change
In past issues, there have been extensive write-
ups in the pages of the Senior Grapevine on
the events and trips that were made available .to
seniors by Plymouth Senior Services and
Senior Community Services. With this issue,
most of the information on some major trips
will be made available only in separate flyers
that are mailed with the Grapevine. The
Calendar of Events on the mailing cover will
continue to have listings for all the events
noted in the Grapevine, plus those events
promulgated by the flyers. Please let us hear
your comments on the new format.
John L. Sullivan
Editor
763) 557-8087
j-1-sullivan@worldnet.att.net
E62Plymouth Senior Services is part of Senior Community Services, a United Way
Agency serving older adults. Plymouth Senior Services receives its funding from
the following community partners: United Way of Minneapolis Area, Senior
Community Services, and the City of Plymouth.
Page — 1
11
much you will pay.
What about my refunds or rebates? When you
apply for property tax refunds or rebates based on
the qualifying amount on your property tax state-
ment, you will not receive the refunds or rebates
as cash payments. They will be applied to your
deferred property tax total. Your Minnesota
income tax refunds, political contribution refunds
or lottery winnings of any type will also be
applied to your deferred property tax.
What if my income changes? Once enrolled in
the program you will not need to reapply.
However, if your income goes above $60,000 in a
calendar year, it is your responsibility to notify the
Department of Revenue, in writing. You will not
be allowed to defer any further taxes until your
income again falls below $60,000. If this
happens, it will be your responsibility to reapply
for deferral. Stopping deferral because of excess
income is not the same thing as being terminated
from the program.
Note: If you fail to notify the state of excess
income, penalties will apply.
Who may be eligible? In order to qualify for this
program, all of the following conditions must be
met:
1. The property must be owned and occupied as a
homestead by a person 65 years of age or older.
In the case of a married couple, both must be at
least 65 when the first deferral is granted. (The
homestead can be classified as residential or
agricultural, or it may be part of a multiunit
building.)
2. The total household income may not exceed
60,000 for the calendar year preceding the year
of initial application.
3. The home must have been owned and
occupied as the homestead of at least one of the
homeowners for at least 15 years prior to the year
of initial application.
4. There can be no state or federal tax liens or
judgment liens on the property.
5. The total of unpaid debts secured by
mortgages and other liens against the property
cannot exceed 75 percent of the assessors
estimated market value of the property.
How do I apply? Applications are available in
your county auditor's office. Applications must be
made by July 1 to defer a portion of the following
year's tax. You may apply in the year in which
you become 65 years old, but no deferral will be
allowed until the following year.
What else should I know? If you meet the
requirements of this program, the state will file a
notice of lien with your county. If there are fees
associated with this filing, they will be added to
your deferred.tax.
Deferral of taxes will terminate when any one of
the following occurs:
1. The property is sold or transferred.
2. All qualifying homeowners die.
3. The homeowner notifies the Commissioner of
Revenue, in writing, that he or she wishes to
discontinue the program.
4. The property no longer qualifies as a
homestead.
Upon termination of the deferral, the deferred
property taxes, any special assessments that may
have been deferred, penalties, and any recording
or filing fees will become due and payable to the
state. If the property is sold or the homeowner
dies, payment is due within 90 days of
termination. If the homeowner voluntarily leaves
the program or the property ceases to qualify as a
homestead, the total deferred amount will become
due within one year of termination. No additional
interest will be due if timely paid. If the deferral.
is not timely paid, penalty, interest, lien, forfeiture
and other rules for the collection of property taxes
will apply.
Continued on next page)
Page — 2
What if I have questions? This is only a
summary of the Senior Citizens Property Tax
Deferral program. For more information, or for
answers to specific questions, call the Property
Tax Division of the Minnesota Department of
Revenue at:
651) 296-0335, or
1-800-652-9094, extension 6-0335
TDD=Y users: call the Minnesota Relay Service
at 1-800-627-3529; ask for 800-652-9094, exten-
sion 6-0335.
You can download a copy of Form CR -SCD,
Property Tax Deferral for Senior Citizens from
www.taxes.state.mn.us. The document is in PDF
file format is crscd.pdf. First-time users may need
the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the
document.
From the Minnesota Department of Revenue,
Property Tax Division, Mail Station 3340, St.
Paul, MN 55146-3340.
Don't Get Tripped Up by a Meal
If you ever feel faint after eating
a meal, don't rush to get up
from the table. A study in the
October 3, 2000, issue of the
Annals of Internal Medicine
found that some older people,
particularly those on medication
for hypertension, may be at risk
of fainting or falling after eating
a meal, due to a drop in blood
pressure.
Researchers studied a group of 50 people, ages 61
to 96 years, to find out whether eating increases
the likelihood of developing faint -inducing low
blood pressure (hypotension). They gave all the
study participants the same food to eat, a liquefied
equivalent of a turkey sandwich and a cola bever-
age. Thirty minutes before the meal and then
again 30 minutes afterward, all the people in the
study were placed on a tilt table, a device that
slowly tilts the person from a sitting position to a
standing one. The tilt table is a secure way to
measure a drop in blood pressure while standing.
Researchers know that blood pressure usually
reaches its lowest point about 30 minutes after
eating a meal and that standing can contribute to
the hypotension.
Researchers -found that 22 percent of the people
experienced a potentially faint -inducing drop in
blood pressure after eating, whereas before eating,
only 12 percent had a drop in blood pressure.
They also found that people taking medications
for high blood pressure may be at greater risk of a
blood pressure drop after meals than people not
taking these drugs.
Researchers suggest that if you've experienced
fainting or falling after a meal, see your doctor for
evaluation. In the meantime, take precautions,
such as eating slowly, avoiding large meals and
resting for about an hour after you eat whether
you're taking blood pressure drugs or not.
Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource
February 2001
Plymouth Senior Services
Council for 2001
The Plymouth Senior Services Council meets
six times a year at Plymouth Creek Center.
This is an advisory panel for Plymouth Senior
Services. Its recommendations are heavily
relied on to frame the senior activities at
Plymouth Creek Center.
If you have questions, concerns or recommen-
dations concerning Plymouth Senior Services,
please contact one of the below listed council
members:
Joyce Casey Gen Lane
Marty Guritz Marilou Thibault
Paul Sholz Dan Ronning
Inge Milliken Winnie Mix
Bill Weerninck Laddie Miller
Paul Bergren Judy Paulinski
Carrie Britt
Page — 3
Health Forum
IkY
Join us on Tuesday, June 12,
2001, from 9:30-11:30 a.m, at
a PIymouth Creek Center for an
educational forum put on by
Minnesota Senior Federation.
Get complete information
from the Minnesota Senior
Federation about these important issues: 2001
Medicare requirements; health care supplements;
special health care programs, assisted living and
caregiving; long term care; prescription drug
awareness and wellness; health insurance options;
and the prescription issues. The cost is $3.50 for
people over 60 and $6.00 for those under 60. The
cost includes lunch, which follows the forum.
The Forum is free without lunch.
Sponsors of the forum are Good Age, Health
Partners, Regions Hospital, UCare, ur L B,
MAGA, and Plymouth Senior Services. For infor-
mation and to make reservations, call
763-509-5280.
Plymouth Senior
Plymouth Services LogoPSenior
ORP611h, M We are proud and pleased to
announce that Roger Bjork-
land has been declared the
winner of the Plymouth
Senior Services Logo
Contest. The logo combines the Plymouth "P"
with a similar "double -S." Roger is well
acquainted with the Plymouth "P." It was his
design that was chosen to grace the city's build-
ings, vehicles and stationery many years ago.
Congratulations Roger. And special thanks to the
many contestants who submitted design entries.
Volunteer Appreciation
April is Volunteer Recogni-
tion Month and we will
recognize the many senior
volunteers that have made
Plymouth Creek Center
Continued on next page)
The Plymouth Flyer is for
Seniors - Call 612-378-1440
The Plymouth Flyer provides transportation for
seniors and persons with disabilities. You will
be picked up at your door and delivered
anywhere within the service area, including
Plymouth and surrounding communities plus the
North Memorial and Methodist medical facili-
ties. Hours of service are 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
weekdays. Call 612-378-1440 between 8:00
a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for reservations. Reserva-
tions are taken up to five days in advance. Same
day reservations are accepted. Your call will be
answered by a person who can make the reser-
vation and the dispatcher will confirm your
request at the time you call. The suggested
donation is $2.00.
Other Transportation Services
Several other transportation services are avail-
able to help people, who don't drive, get to
shopping, appointments and other activities. If
you don't need a ride, maybe you can help by
serving as a driver. Services include:
Care and Share Group 763-541-1761
8 a.m.-8 p.m.) or 763-553-1679
Volunteer drivers from Plymouth take you to
medical appointments, shopping and activities.
Interfaith Outreach 952-473-2436
Serves Plymouth Residents West of 494. Door -
to -Door service to all destinations.
Elder Express 763-529-1252
Serves Plymouth Residents East of 494.
Diad -A -Ride 763-559-5057
Door -to -Door service to all destinations in
Plymouth, Wayzata Medical Center, Ridgedale,
and nearby shopping centers.
Metro Mobility 612-332-7161
Shared service for individuals ADA certified by
Metro Mobility. Requests 4 -day advance notice.
Page --- 4
come to life. In 1999, we had 175 volunteers who
provided 12,000 hours of effort to Plymouth
Senior Services. In 2000, the number of volun-
teers grew to 225, and they provided 15,000 hours
of service. At this rate of growth, we hope we can
fit all of them into Plymouth Creek Center for
next years Volunteer Appreciation Day.
Arts and Entertainment
Every month Plymouth Senior Services plans to
offer a play, concert or other entertainment. Look
for announcements that arrive with or are included
in the Grapevine and the Plymouth Park and
Recreation Guide, Plymouth Leisure Times.
Trips are open to all area seniors. You may regis-
ter for each of these Arts and Entertainment events
by sending your check, payable to Plymouth Creek
Center, to 14800 34th Avenue North, Plymouth,
MN 55447. If you prefer, you can register in
person at Plymouth Creek Center, 14800 34th
Avenue North. Where no registration form is
provided, use a copy of the generic form on page 8
to register for events sponsored by Plymouth
Senior Services. No tickets will be mailed for
these events. If you have questions about events,
call 763-509-5280.
Some trips are offered by Senior Community
Services and you must register for those trips
directly with them.
Los Rumbaleros
Join your friends for a musical visit with the
Rangel" family at the Great American History
Theater in St. Paul on Wednesday, April 25, 2001.
The Rangel sisters were the musical darlings of
the old West Side flats. They belt out their
postwar mambos in this wonderful story of a
Mexican -American family during the heyday of
Latin music in St. Paul. For many, they were a
local version of the Lennon Sisters with a bubbly
twist of Marilyn Monroe. Los Rumbaleros is a
Latino musical where music and love explodes
onto the stage with reckless abandon! It's a
father's dream: four talented and flirtatious daugh-
ters! Ay Caramba!
Sunday Drive
The farmer's rite of summer
Check out the competition:
Who has the tallest corn?
Who has hay down?
Who's hauling manure? Whee-000!
Didn't want to go; had to anyway
Brothers got to stay home, grrr
Middle of the front seat of the Chevy
Can't see out without squirming and craning my
neck
Sisters in the back seat
Know they're plotting against me
Seems like we have been gone ages
Whoops, here it comes; Car sick again!
Stop the car!
Scramble over mother's lap, out the door
chicken and noodles, yuck!
Dark thoughts
Shut up sisters, don't say it.
We stop at an ice cream parlor
Stomach still churning
Why not, I'll make it home
It's good, settles my stomach
Oh no, not the cigar again!
Please roll down the window)
Home at last
Never do that again
Until next Sunday.
From Reflections from the 1930's
By Bill Horst
6197 and Revised 2101)
Member of the Plymouth Writers Group
This play was commissioned by the Great Ameri-
can History Theater and will have its premier this
spring.
A van will leave Plymouth Creek Center at 8:45
a.m. and will return at 1:45 p.m. We may stop for
lunch on your own.
The cost of $20.00, which includes the show and
transportation, should be submitted to Plymouth
Creek Center, 14800 34th Avenue North,
Plymouth, MN 55447, by Monday, April 2, 2001.
Continued on next page)
Page — 5
Call 763-509-5280 for availability and if you have
questions.
Festival of Nations - ,Fri dat , ma j 4
Get together with your friends
on Thmf;sday, N 2001, for
a tour to RiverCentre in
downtown St. Paul and the
scene of this year's Festival of
Nations. The festival has been
presented since 1932 and has
become one of the nation's
largest and longest -running
multiethnic events. Its purposes are to: showcase
Minnesota's ethnic diversity; perpetuate ethnic
traditions; encourage ethnic understanding; and
unite people through shared values.
These purposes are achieved in cooperation with
100 ethnic groups, which present their historic
traditions through folk dance performances,
authentic ethnic cafes, cultural exhibits, folk art
demonstrations and an international bazaar. Plus
outstanding guest entertainers and much more!
A van will leave Plymouth Creek Center at 3:00
p.m. and will return at 7:30 p.m.
t 15.00
The cost of $1-I-:90•, which includes the festival
and transportation, should be submitted to
Plymouth Creek Center, 14800 34th Avenue
North, Plymouth, MN 55447, by Thursday, April
26, 2001. -Call 763-509-5280 if you have
questions
Emerald Enchantment
An afternoon of Celtic — Irish Music and Dance,
sponsored by Senior Community Services, will be
held on Wednesday, May 9, 2001, at 1:30 p.m. at
Plymouth Creek Center, 14800 34th. Avenue
North, Plymouth, MN 55447.
Emerald Enchantment stars Laura MacKenzie,
Karen Mueller and the Scoil na dTrf Irish Dancers.
MacKenzie plays wooden flute, whistle, Scottish
smallpipes, medieval greatpipes, concertina, and
does vocals. She has been a member of many
Twin Cities Celtic. groups,
including Boiled in Lead and
Macha Tri. She has toured
nationally with Lorie Line and
her Pop Chamber Orchestra, and
has appeared with Pulitzer Prize-
winning author Frank McCourt.
Laura MacKenzie has been
recognized as a Master Folk
Artist by the Minnesota Statc
Arts Board, and is sought-after
as a studio musician and
producer. Karen Mueller is a
nationally touring multi -instrumentalist, specializ-
ing in the autoharp and mountain dulcimer.
A dessert buffet will be served. Register early
because space is limited. Send check for $15.00
if driving) or $21.00 (if riding the van) to Senior
Community Services, 10709 Wayzata Boulevard,
111, Minnetonka, MN 55305. For more infor-
mation, call Senior Community Services at
952-541-1019. You may also register at
Plymouth Creek Center, 763-509-5280
Folklorama
See the colorful sights of Winnipeg August 7-10.
A local guide will tell about the background of the
area on a Winnipeg Sightseeing Tour. Board the
Paddlewheel River Boat for a luncheon cruise. In
the evening enjoy Canada's "Festival of Nations,"
Folklorama. It has been praised as the largest
cultural festival in North America. Visit the
beautiful gardens: Assiniboine Park with its
English Garden, Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, and a
French formal garden. Next, tour the Ukrainian
Cultural and Educational Centre and the Museum
of Man and Nature. Be swept up in the spirit of
Folklorama as it whirls its way into your heart.
The cost is $465.00 per person based on double
occupancy. Reservations will be confirmed upon
receipt of a $100.00 deposit per person made to
Senior Community Services, 10709 Wayzata
Boulevard, #111, Minnetonka, MN 55305. Final
payment is due by Friday, June 15, 2001. For
more information, call Senior Community
Services at 952-541-1019.
Page — 6
Mackinac Island
Enjoy a great sightseeing tour to Mackinac Island
September 20-23." Stay at the Chip -In Island
Resort and Casino. Take Shepler's Ferry to
Mackinac Island. Upon arrival on the island, take
a horse drawn carriage tour that includes lunch at
the Grand Hotel. In Ironwood, take a Soo Locks
boat tour and visit the Michigan Iron Industry
Museum in Negaunee. On the way home, stop at
Al Capone's 1920s north woods hideout.
The cost is $339.00 per person based on double
occupancy. Reservations will be confirmed upon
receipt of a $50.00 deposit per person made to
Senior Community Services, 10709 Wayzata
Boulevard, #111, Minnetonka, MN 55305. Final
payment is due by Monday, August 20, 2001. For
more information, call Senior Community
Services at 952-541-1019.
Events and Trips with Flyers
Details on the next four events are provided in the
separate flyers that you received with the Grape-
vine. Call 763-509-5280 for availability and if
you have questions.
Engelbert Humperdink
The King of the Romantic Singers will perform at
Mystic Lake for us on Monday, June 11.
Forever Plaid
Enjoy a trip to the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres on
Saturday, May 19 to see Forever Plaid. It is a
glorious Hit Parade of famous songs that literally
transports the audience back to a kinder, gentler
time.
South Pacific
Thrill to Rodgers and Hammerstein's South
Pacific at the Ordway on Saturday, June 16.
Jimmy Dorsey Band/Red Wing
We are going back to the days of swing and big
bands for an afternoon of musical memories on
Tuesday, July 24.
Additional Upcoming Attractions
Peterson Family in Coon Rapids April 20 (Closes
April 3).
St. Louis Tour from May 1-5 (Closed out).
France Tour May 25 to June 2 (Closed out).
Monthly Entertainment
Come to the beautiful Plymouth Creek Center for
entertainment every month. Check the Grapevine
newsletter and flyers at the Center for more infor-
mation. Call 763-509-5280 if you have questions.
Senior Dances
Senior Dances will be held
at Plymouth Creek Center
this spring and summer.
Call 763-509-5280 for a
flyer about the dances.
The bands will be
announced. Preregistra-
tion is requested by paying
3.00 in advance. Cost is
3.50 at the door. We
need a minimum of 20 preregistrations to run the
dance. Please call ahead to make sure the dance is
being held if you do not preregister. Treats are
served.
The following dance dates and times are
scheduled:
Tuesday, April 24 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 15 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 19 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Tuesday, July 17 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, August 1 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Tuesday, August 21 7:00-9:30 p.m.
May Baskets and Magic
Grandkids and grandparents, and kids and parents
will enjoy an intergenerational afternoon with
Continued on next page)
Page ---- 7
11
magic and mystery on Saturday, April 21, from
1:30-3:30 p.m. Entertainment will be by Kevin
Hall of the Halls of Magic, and the Story Time
Players. Make May baskets with senior crafters
and enjoy a snack of cookies and juice. An adult
must accompany every two to three children. The
cost is $4.00 each. Register at Plymouth Creek
Center, 763-509-5280
Spring BirdWatchincr
Join .Vivian Nieger .from
Wild Birds Unlimited for
AIL updates on spring and
summer birds on Friday,
April 27, at 9:30 a.m. What
is the name of those cute little birds singing so
beautifully in our backyards and parks? How do
we entice birds to our backyard feeders all
summer long? A bird feeder will be given as a
door prize at this program. We hope to have some
bird walks this summer. The cost is $2.00. Call
763-509-5280 to register.
Event Registration
Event:
Date:
Name:
Address:
Phone: ZIP:
Emergency Contact and Phone
No. of tickets x
enclosed.
Make your check payable to Plymouth Creek
Center, 14800 34th Avenue North, Plymouth,
MN 55447 or take your registrations to
Plymouth Creek Center. Please use a separate
form for each event and list all participants.
Event Registration
Event:
Date:
Name:
Address:
Phone: ZIP:
Emergency Contact and Phone
No. of tickets x
enclosed.
Make your check payable to Plymouth Creek
Center, 14800 34th Avenue North, Plymouth,
MN 55447 or take your registrations to
Plymouth Creek Center. Please use a separate
form for each event and list all participants.
Event Registration
Event:
Date:
Name:
Address:
Phone: ZIP:
Emergency Contact and Phone
No. of tickets x
enclosed.
Make your check payable to Plymouth Creek
Center, 14800 34th Avenue North, Plymouth,
MN 55447 or take your - registrations to
Plymouth Creek Center. Please use a separate
form for each event and list all participants.
Page — 8
Nifty Nineties Party
Let's honor our 90 year olds by
celebrating with them on Thursday,
A May 31, 2001, from 12:00-2:00
p.m. You will have lunch and
photographer Doug Ohman will
entertain you with a slide show and
anecdotes about the "One -room
Schoolhouses" in Minnesota. His presentation
will follow the lunch. There may be a surprise
musical presentation as well. Our ninety year olds
will eat for free this day, but they must register.
The cost is $6.00.
Travelogue and Breakfast
Join Joan Gill on Thursday, June 7, for a slide
presentation of her many trips to the Isle of Mann.
The island is off the coast of Ireland and Wales.
The inhabitants are descendants of the early Celtic
peoples. Joan also has stories to tell about the
culture, Breakfast will be served at 9:00 a.m. and
the talk begins at 9:30 a.m. The cost is $4.00.
Sunbonnet Tea
Come to the Sunbonnet Tea
A on Wednesday, June 20, from
2:00-4:00 p.m. Gloves and
hats would be a fun addition
to the afternoon. Catherine
Ely who will perform a
monologue on the Old
Mission Woman will provide the entertainment.
Bring a historical piece of any nature to add to the
centerpieces on the tables. The cost is $5.00.
Summer Picnic
There will be a wonder-
ful picnic indoors,
without any bugs or bad
weather on Thursday,
July 19, from 12:00-2:00
p.m. The River City
Saxophones will provide
entertainment. Call for details about the menu.
The cost is $6.00.
Registration Info
Because the registration for most of the
programs listed in the Grapevine is handled
through the Plymouth Park and Recreation
Department, the dates in the Plymouth Leisure
Times for registering are followed. Touch tone
TTR) and mailed registrations from Plymouth
residents are accepted on April 10. Mailed
registrations from nonresidents are accepted
April 16. In-person registrations start on May 1.
Lunch Express - Special Editions
Kathy Mahoney will sing springtime songs and
play the piano at a special edition of Lunch
Express on Thursday, April 5. The special menu
for lunch will be old-fashioned chicken noodle
soup, build your own chef salad, choice of dress-
ing, applesauce, and cookies. The suggested
donation for the lunch is $3.50 for those over 60.
Donations will be collected to help offset the cost
the entertainment.
On Thursday, May 10, you can enjoy a great
Lunch Express and follow up with a wonderful
Armchair Travel adventure to London and New
York presented by Helen McNulty. The suggested
donation for the lunch is $3.50 for those over 60.
You must register separately for Armchair Travel,
and the cost is $2.00.
Arts and Crafts
Open Art Studio
Spend the morning with people
who like to create. The room in
Plymouth Creek Center will be
open to painters and other artists
from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. on
Fridays to share. Share your art
knowledge, ideas, techniques
and information. And it is a great time to work in
the companionship of others. Bring your own
supplies and easel if needed. The studio will not
be available on June 15.
Page — 9
11
Needle Arts Center. Instructor Bev Romfo is waiting to work
with you. Classes will be held on Monday, April. .
Do you enjoy working on needle arts projects? 23 -May 21, from 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. The cost is
This needle arts group meets the 1st and 3rd $25.00.
Thursday of each month from 12:00-3:00 p.m.
Bring your own project or work on group projects. Watercolor Workshops
If you have questions, call Lee at 763-557-2975.
Quilting
If you want to learn while making a qui It, this is a
class for you. You will be working on a log cabin
with friendship stars quilt. Make the quilt size of
your choice. All aspects of making the quilt will
be covered. The first class will be an overview of
the course and will provide a materials list. From
then on, students are encouraged to bring their
own sewing machines, as this is definitely a
hands-on class. We will work in class and there
will be homework.
Four workshops are offered on Wednesdays from
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. They can be taken separately
or as a group. Each week you will take a Zook at a
specific subject, distilling the essential dualities of
each in order to simplify and become more
creative in your expression. You will learn how to
use design with each subject in order to create
stronger paintings. Gail Speckman is the instruc-
tor. The cost of each workshop is $17.00.
Skies. Wet -into -wet is the perfect approach for
capturing luminosity and motion in clouds. You
will explore techniques to create your own unique
skies and relate them to the surrounding scene.
Check out the sample quilt at Plymouth Creek (Continued on next page)
Senior Focus Group and Social Club Basic Information
This "Normal Schedule" may be changed to accommodate Holidays.)
Group_________MeetingDay_________Time_______ Contact___ Phone
500 Card Club Friday_ _ _ _ _ _ 12_30_ 3:30 ppm._ 63-544763-544-8300
Bridge Club---------
Every
Every Wednesday _ _ 12_30_ 3:30 p_m.......
Laddie
Beck-
Computer Users Group _ 4th Wednesday _ _ _ _ 10,00 a.m_-12:OOp_m_
763_473^4031_
JohJohn 763-557-808763-557
C Group 2nd & 4th Tuesday Mert 763-551-0304_---- r -ib -b -age ......
Evening Bridge _ _
1230-3:00p_m.
Every Monday ----- 6:30-9 00_P.T_ _ _ _ - Bruce_ 763-476-0291
Gardening Group 2nd Friday 11:00 a.m_-12:00y.m_ PCC----- 763-509- 5280
Man -to -Man Mens Club Selected Tuesdays 9:00-11:00 a.m. Bill or 763-546-9590
Bernie 763-475-0251
Needle Arts Group - _ - _ 1st & 3rd Thursday _ 12_00_ 3:00 p_m._ _ _ _ _ Lela- - - - -763-557-2975_
Plyrriouth Carvers Every Thursday----- 10:00a.m_-2_00p_m_ --Dan 763-545-6136
Pl nouth Handy+ rafters 2nd & 4th Thursday 3 :00 p m._ _ _ _ _ Marty_ 763-541-1761_
Plymouth Rockers Every Monday
12,30_
9:00-11:30 a.m. Phyllis 763-476-4455
Senior Chorus or Bev 952-835-5216
Plnouth Seniors Club 3rd Monday _ _ _ _ _ p.m .- Bev 763-473-7580
Plymouth Writers Grp. Every Monday
12_00-4:00 - - - -
1:00-3:00 p.m. Bill 763-540-6268
or Elaine 763-473-5628
Open Arts Studio Friday_ _ _ _ _ _ 9:00-11:30 a.m._ PCC _ _ _763-509-5280_
Over 55 Club
Every
lst Monday 12:00-3:00 p.m. Delores 763-559-3511
Marguerite _763_443_7866_
Our Own Book Club
or
I st Wednesday 1:30-2:30 p.m. Lorraine 763 -473-6876
orMarge__763;475_0273-
Story Time Players I st & 3rd Tuesday 1:00-3:00 mm. Carole 763-475-2763
Page — 10
Wednesday, April 18.
Land. Rolling hills, sandy beaches and rocky
outcroppings are all aspects of land. You will take
a look at form and exciting textural possibilities to
express the earth's surface. Wednesday, April 25.
Water. Luminous reflections in the still water or
the dynamic movement of waves are both
expressed beautifully through the fluidity of
watercolor. You will learn how materials and
approaches can help us achieve the desired effects.
Wednesday, May 2.
Trees. Understanding general characteristics of
individual trees and groupings will free you to
work creatively. Exploring brush choices and
handling materials and techniques, and textural
possibilities will expand your abilities to express
the beauty of trees. Wednesday, May 9.
Sumie Painting
Sumie painting is a unique style
of water-based painting. One
brush stroke carries from light to
dark shading. History and
customs and philosophy are part
of the class. Sumie will branch
out to paint on porcelain, silk
and other surfaces. Materials
cost is about $35.00. Authentic art supplies from
Japan will be available for purchase from the
instructor, Marion Brown. Classes will be held on
Tuesday, May 8-29 from 9:00 a.m.- noon. The
cost is $18.00. each day.
Beginning Watercolor II
This is a series of painting classes for students
who want to learn the many different ways of the
medium, while incorporating the principles and
elements of design. Demos, critiques and individ-
ual help will be available. Classes will be held on
Wednesday, May 23 -June 27 from 12:30-3:30
p.m. Patti Jueb is the instructor. The cost is
48.00.
Education
Car Care Maintenance
for Women
Learn about the basics in car maintenance includ-
ing how to summerize your car. A one -session
class is offered at Plymouth Creek Center on
Tuesday, June 12 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. The cost
is $10.00.
Bridge Lessons
Learn the basics of playing bridge from renowned
Continued on next page)
Senior Fitness and Health Classes — Basic Information
Class may not be held on holidays or some special days.
Call Plymouth Creek Center at 763-509-5280 for reservations and up to date class information.
Course Dates Time Instructor Cost
E-Z Exercise Level I Ma- 3 - -May 24 _ a.m. Thu - P Thomson 12.00
E-Z Exercise Level II May 1 to Jun 5 - - - 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Tue _ Buany Thomson_ _ 15.00
E -Z Exercise Level I-1- Jun 19 to Jul 31- _ 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Tue_ Bunny Thomson_ _ 18.00
Easy Yoga.......... A r 27 to Jun 1.5 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Fri Max Vashro ------ 28 _00
Easy Yoga_ -_ _ _ _ _ _ _ Jul 13 to Aug 17 _ 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Fri_ ---------------- Max Vashro 24.00
Line Dancing....... Air 16 to May 21_ 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Annette Fragle _ _ _ 24.00
Seniorrobics Air 27 to Jun 15 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Fri Max Vashro 21.00
Seniorrobics Jul13to Aug 17 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Fri Max Vashro 18.00
Tai Chi Chih Begin. _ May 1 to Jun 5 _ _ _ 1:00 to 2 _00p_m.Tue _ _ Bunny Thomson _ 15.00
Tai Chi Chih-Inter. May 1 to Jun 5 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Tue Bunny Thomson 15.00
Page — 11
instructor, Mignon Neirmeyer. Classes will be
held on Thursdays,.: April 19 to .lune 7 from
9:00-11:00 a.m. The cost is $35.00.
Computer Training
Many separate courses in
computer training are
being offered to seniors
on a monthly basis at
Plymouth Creek Center.
All courses are taught on
Tuesdays and all training
is on Windows-based
computers.
Computer Basics
Learn about how to use a computer in the follow-
ing classes. They vary in class length and cost.
I Have a Computer. Now What? This class
will cover setting up, plugging in, turning it on,
logging on, and using a mouse. The cost is
18.00.
Getting Started with Computers. Class includes
your Windows desktop, Windows explained,
loading software, playing games and plugging in
your printer. The cost is $33.00.
Genealogy Software. Class includes reviews of
software, getting started, moving around and
preparing a genealogy chart. The cost is $43.00.
Getting a Computer. Things covered include:
Why should I buy a computer? I was given a
computer, now what do I do? What kind of
computer is right for me? What does it all mean
to me? The cost is $18.00.
Keyboarding. Class includes leaming your
keyboard, beyond pecking, increasing your typing
speed and help using your mouse. The cost is
33.00.
Staying One Step Ahead of the Grandkids.
Includes understanding kids and computers, using
computers to have fun with your grandkids, and
playing popular computer programs. The cost is
18.00.
Computer Lingo of Seniors. Includes an easy
approach to understanding computer and Internet
lingo. The cost is $18.00.
Trying to- Tell It
The old have a secret.
They can't tell others for to understand you have
to be old.
You need that soft velvet over your ears and the
blessing of time in your hands. Any challenging
sound has a bell at the end.
The vista you heard on the phone all your life
has moved into your head, where it lures you to
listen away.
The secret is wrapped in a message you begin
to hear in silence, and at night it wakes you and
calls.
The secret is told to you by touches
that spread a thin layer of understanding again
and again, a hint, another: conviction.
You can't see it or hear it but it's there,
like a live wire, a power inside things, an art, a
fantasy.
You have always wanted more than the earth;
now you have it. You tum to the young. They
do not understand.
William Stafford
Writing a Letter. Includes creating a letter,
editing your work, spelling and more, saving your
work, printing your letter, finding files, and
plugging in your printer. The cost is $43.00.
Caring for your Computer. Includes solving
problems that occur, regular maintenance and
freeing up space. The cost is $18.00.
My Mailing List and Address Book. Includes
software review, getting started and creating a
mailing list. The cost is $18.00.
More About Word Processing. Prerequisite:
Experience using a mouse and typing 25 words a
minute. If you are new to word processing, this
class is for you. We will start with the very basics
on creating word processing documents. Learn
how to add and remove spacing, correct and make
changes easily. Learn how to move and copy
words, sentences and paragraphs without retyping.
The cost is $43.00.
More About Word Processing II. Prerequisite:
Intro to Word '97 or familiarity with Word. In
Continued on next page)
Page — 12
I.
Level II we will work with fonts and colors,
review the cut, copy and paste commands and
work with tabs and margins. This class will show
you how easy it is to make your documents look
good using special colors and formatting
techniques. The cost is $43.00.
More About Windows. Prerequisite: Computer
Basics class or familiarity with keyboard, mouse
and computer. Learn how to make your computer
work for you. This class brings a better under-
standing of how Windows 95 can male working
on a computer efficient and easy Some things you
will learn are how to customize your desktop,
working with tool bars, speeding up or slowing
down that pesky mouse, multitasking, making
icons and more. The cost is $43.00.
More About Windows U. Prerequisite: Intro to
Windows 95198. Once you've learned the basics
about Windows, move on to the next level. You
will learn about folders, flies, copying, cutting and
how to create those time saving short cuts. The
cost is $43.00.
To register for the computer classes, and for more
information on projected start dates and class
details, contact Plymouth Creek Center at
763-509-5280. The registration information on
Page 9 applies.
Third Age Series
Augsburg College provides lifelong learning
through their Third Age series. Current or retired
professors teach the classes. Maple Grove seniors
and Plymouth seniors sponsor these classes. All
of the following programs begin at 1:00 p.m. on
Thursdays.
Classes to be held at Plymouth Creek Center,
14800 34th Avenue, are: April 19 — The Story
of the Other Wise Man by David Sperry, May 17
Where Have All the Heroes Gone by Joy
Davis.
Classes held at the Maple Grove Senior Center,
12951 Weaver Lake Road, are: May 3 --- Music
of Many Cultures by Ronald Nelson, May 31 —
Angels by Jim Nelson.
You may register for these classes for $3 each, or
all four for $10 at either location.
Armchair Travel
Join us for two armchair travel presentations that
will take you to places that you are planning to
visit or would like to revisit. The talks are given
at Plymouth Creek Center.
On Thursday, May 10, at 1:00 p.m. Helen
McNulty will take us to London and York and on
Wednesday, July 25, at 9:30 a.m. we will travel to
Switzerland with her. Armchair Travel to London
and York on May 10 will be a great opportunity
for the Lunch Express crowd to sightsee with an
expert.
Preregistration is required. You may pay the
2.00 fee at the door. Treats that represent the
culture will be served for which a donation is
accepted. To register, call 763-509-5280.
Fitness and Health
Biking Club
The Plymouth Pedalers will be having their organ-
izational meeting for their 2001 season on
Wednesday, April 11, at 9:30 a.m. at Plymouth
Creek Center. You will learn about the scheduled
rides for spring and summer. The Public Safety
office will bring bike helmets for sale at $8.00.
New members are welcome. If you have
questions, call Paul at 763-476-9710.
Line Dancing
Join this fun, fast moving line dance class on
Monday afternoons from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. start-
ing April 16 at Plymouth Creek Center. Instruc-
tor Annette Fragle will have you dancing to
country and western music, and learning the
hottest new dances. It's easy to learn and great
exercise. No partner is needed. All ages are
welcome. Cost for the 6 -week course is $24.00.
Registration can be made at Plymouth Creek
Center.
Page ---13
f
Continued on next page)
Over 50 Tennis League
Over 50 Tennis League meets Tuesdays, Thurs-
days, and Fridays starting in mid-April at Parkers
Lake Courts. Call Ed Fischer at 763-550- 94Nfor
information.
Recreation
Spring Card Party
The Plymouth Seniors Club will be having its
spring card party on Sunday, April 29, 2001, from
1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Plymouth Creek Center. The
cost is $3. Pay at the door. There will be prizes
and refreshments.
Call Gen Lane at 763-473-6385 if you have any
questions about the card party.
Lunch Express
Lunch is served between
the hours of 11:30-12.45
p.m. on Tuesdays and
i Thursdays every week.
I jq
The suggested donation
for the lunch is $3.50 for
those over 60. Please
register the day before lunch by calling 763-509-
5275 and leave a message. Lunch menus will
include soup, salad and sandwiches. A few extra
lunches will be available.
Call 763-509-5280 for more information. There
will be no Lunch Express on May 1 and June 14,
Evening Bridge
Join others who love the game of bridge for an
evening of fun with friends. The group meets on
Monday evenings from 6:30-9:00 p.m. at the
Plymouth Creek Center in the Fireside Room. A
once a year registration fee will be collected at the
front desk starting on June 4. If you have
questions, call Bruce at 763-476-0291. There is
no evening bridge on May 28.
Movie and Popcorn - .
Enjoy an afternoon with
friends going to the
movies right here in
Plymouth Creek Center.
Popcorn and soda are
free, but we would
appreciate a call at
763-509-5280 to let us
know you are coming.
On Thursday, April 26,
the movie will be Return to Me starring David
Duchovny and Minnie Driver, and on Thursday,
May 24, the movie is Remembering the Titans
with Denzel Washington. Show time is 1:00 p.m.
Movies will not be shown during the summer and
will resume again in the fall.
instant Piano
for Hopelessly Busy People
Some music teachers may not want you to know
this, but you don't need years of weekly lessons to
learn piano. In just a few hours, you can learn
enough secrets of the trade to give you years of
musical enjoyment. How do we do it? While
regular piano teachers teach note reading, piano
professionals use chords. And you can learn all
the chords you'll need to play any song in this one
session. Any song. Any style. Any key. If you
can find middle C and know the meaning of Every
Good Boy Does Fine, you already know enough to
enroll in this workshop. Total beginners can
request a free pamphlet by sending a self
addressed stamped envelope to Innovative
Keyboard Instruction, 3165 Vale Circle SW, Prior
Lake, MN 55372. The instructor will collect a
materials fee, $22.00 plus tax, in class for a spiral
bound workbook and a 60 -minute practice
cassette.
A class is scheduled for Tuesday, April 17, from
9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., and for Tuesday, June 19
from 6:30-9:30 p.m. The cost of each class is
8.00.
Page — 14
Senior Focus Groups
Senior Focus Groups provide a wonderful and
unique opportunity to participate with area seniors
who have similar interests. Following is informa-
tion on four of the groups Plymouth Senior
Services sponsors. You may find them
interesting, informative and fun.
Book Club
Our Own Book Club meets on the 1 st Wednesday
of each month at 1:30 p.m. Books to be read are
planned several months in advance. The meeting
in July has been moved to July 11 due to the
holiday. If you have questions, call Lorraine at
763-473-6876 or Marge at 763- 475-0273
Gardening Group
Some of the most fun for a
V r _f,
gardener is the process of
planning the garden. Join
other gardeners as they plan
and exchange ideas for spring
and summer. It is planned to
have speakers at some of the
1110-4L meetings that would talk
about gardening in small
spaces, container gardening and shade gardening.
The group meets the second Friday of each month
at 11:00 a.m.
Gina Smith, a master gardener from the Minnesota
Extension Service and Byerly's, will make two
special presentations to the Garden Group and
other interested persons. On Thursday, April 12,
at 10:00 a.m, she will give her insight on shrub
roses. On Thursday, April 26, at 10:00 a.m. the
subject will be container and small space gardens.
If you have questions, call 763-509-5280.
Plymouth Writers Group
Do you enjoy writing? Do you have a project you
want to start? Come for sharing and support. The
group meets at 1:00 p.m. every Monday at
Plymouth Creek Center. For information, call Bill
at 763-540-6268 or Elaine at 763-473-5628.
Plymouth Writers Group is for all ages of adults.
40
x : Enjoy the Wonderful Renewal of Spring x f
Your News
The Senior Grapevine is your paper. Its
purpose is to distribute current information
about relevant issues for older adults bimonthly
e.g., Financial, health, and recreation news,
legal information, and senior events in other
communities), Forward information for your
events to the Senior Programs office. Any
comments you have to improve the paper will be
appreciated. Your articles are solicited and will
be considered for publication. The Senior
Services Office serves residents 55 and older. It
is located in Plymouth Creek Center, 14800 34th
Avenue N., Plymouth, MN 55447. The phone
number is (763) 509-5280. You can also E-mail
me at smittels@ci.plymouth.mn.us.
John L. Sullivan is the senior volunteer from'
Plymouth who acts as editor, typist, and proof-
reader of the paper. He can be reached at (763)
557-8087 or j-l-sullivan@worldnet.att.net.
Sara Mittelstaedt -
Director of Senior Services
Page — 15
Senior Grapevine
Calendar of Events
April through July 2001
Senior Community Services trip.
Call 952-541-1019 for information.
Plymouth Senior Services
Plymouth Creek Center
City of Plymouth
14800 34th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55447
May 9April
Apr 5 Lunch Express with Kathy Mahoney.
Apr 12 Shrub Roses talk at PCC.
Apr 18 Senior Volunteer Recognition at PCC.
Apr 20 Peterson Family at, Epiphany Catholic
May 31ChurchinCoonRapids.
Apr 21 May Baskets and Magic at PCC.
Apr 25 Los Rumhaleros at Great American History
Jun 12Theater.
Apr 26 Container and Small Space Garden at PCC.
Apr 26 Movie Return to Me at PCC.
Apr 27 Spring Birdwatching at PCC.
Apr 29 Spring Card Parry at PCC.
May
May 1 St. Louis Tour. ***
May 3 Festival of Nations at RiverCentre.
Senior Community Services trip.
Call 952-541-1019 for information.
Plymouth Senior Services
Plymouth Creek Center
City of Plymouth
14800 34th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55447
May 9 Emerald Enchantment at FCC. ***
May 10 Armchair Travel to London and York.
May 19 Forever Plaid at the Chanhassen.
May 24 Movie Remembering the Titans at PCC.
May 25 Tour of France. ***
May 31 Nifty Nineties Party at PCC.
June
Jun 11 Engelbert Humperdink at Mystic Lake.
Jun 12 Health Forum at PCC.
Jun 16 Soutlr Pacifrc at the Ordway.
Jun 20 Sunbonnet Tea at PCC.
July
Jul 19 Summer Picnic at PCC.
Jul 24 Jimmy Dorsey Band in Red Wing.
Jul 25 Armchair Travel to Switzerland at PCC.
For Senior fiance schedule, see page 7.
Note: PCC is Plymouth Creek Center.
Presort Standard
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Permit No. 1889
Minneapolis, Minn.
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P"11- a Halls of Magic presents:
ay Baskets
a "8901C4101
iaturday, April 21st
1:30pm
person at the door
Iren must be accompanied by an adult.
Ain Afternoon of Family Fain
at the Plyfnoutie creek ceoteri
Can a 6 year old really be stronger than his Dad?
Can a young lady actually read minds?
Has your son always wanted to be sawn in half?
Kevin Hall of the balls of Maglc will make your afternoon one to rememberl
Experience the same high energy show he has performed on cruise ships,
resorts and at schools around the country.
You will also make a pretty may basket & enjoy cookies & juice.**
The Halls of Magic Inc.
Bring the whole family down www.hallsofmagic.com
and join the excitement at the: {
Plymouth Creek center
14800 34th Ave. N., Plymouth
For more information, -
call 763-509-5280.
COMPARISON OF SERVICE LEVEL MEASUREMENTS
SENIOR CENTER - Plymouth
Total Clients Served
unduplicated)
Total Duplicated Number
Access Transportation
This includes the Care & Share volunteer drivers only
Rides
Individuals
1999 2000
1178 1495
14,071 25,315
390 — 2 way rides 466
200 220
Nutrition
Includes Lunch Express meals and senior luncheons
Meals 26 70
Individuals 1,340 2,850
Average 51 35
Health Services
Includes health programs, screenings, flu shots, walking, exercise, line dancing, tai
chi, yoga, nutrition classes, etc.
Events at Center
Participants
306
4850
Volunteers
Does not include lunch express volunteers or front desk volunteers
Center Volunteers 170
Volunteer Hours 12,724
383
9315
225
14,912
Educational Events
Book reviews, travelogues, speakers on many topics, driving classes, computer
classes, Advisory Board Meetings, committee meetings,
Senior Community Services trainings, etc. Also includes activities that are creative
such as the Plymouth Rockers, Storytime Players, art classes , etc.
Events 203 401
Participants 4722 7707
Recreational
Includes cards, bridge, cribbage, special luncheons and events
Events 129 192
Participants 4131 6004
Tries
Though trips are recreational we keep separate count
Bus Trips 14 21
Participants 268 557
Plymouth Senior Club Statistics
7 Honorary — 90 and older
27 — 85 to 90
49 — 80 to 85
93 — 63 to 80
176 —Members 0112001
42 New members in 2000
Zella Rogers will be 100 — 07/09/01
Sally Marshall will be 99 06/10/02
Mary House 93 10/18/08
Evelyn Cedergren 92 12/08/09
Ruth Bergstrom 90 08/04/11
Mabel Levi 90 07/11/11
Pauline Pilarski 90 02/12/11
2 of the 176 not willing to gave their age.
Youngest 63
Zella Rogers
3630 Lancaster Lane
211
Plymouth, MN 55441
Sally Marshall
1011 Feld Ct.
Hopkins, MN 55343
Mary House
8008 Bass Lake Rd
222
New Hope, MN 55428
Evelyn Cedergren
1550037 th Ave. N.
231
Plymouth, MN 55446
Ruth Bergstrom
3 5 Nathan Lane N
204
Plymouth, MN 55441
Mabel Levi
15015 20`' Ave. N.
Plymouth, MN 55441
Pauline Pilarski
11201 Fairfield Rd. W..
211
Minnetonka, MN 55305
No longer a member of Senior Club
but lives in Plymouth and is 91-
10/31/10
Roy Bauman
3 5 Nathan Lane N.
203
Plymouth, MN 55441
Annual Report 2044
Plymouth Senior Program
Page 2
Some of the new programs that. we offered this year were:
Educational classes
Perennial Gardening
Photography Class
Watercolor Workshops
Acrylic Painting
Beginning Genealogy
Watercolor Painting
Sumle Painting
Arm Chair Travel — France, Ireland Italy, England
Computer classes
Nutrition classes
Norwegian class
Caregiver Support classes
Computer Club
Leadership Workshop for club officers
Seniors in the Know (Health & Legal Info.)
Book Club
A Look at Religious Diversity
2 Augsburg College Series with Maple Grove
Recreation/Fitness & Health
Lunch Express lunches 2/week
Expanded Walking to 3 days/week
2 Overnights to Lanesboro for Biking club
Tai Chi Chih
8 Special Entertainment Luncheons or events
Line Dancing
Easy Yoga
Drop In Coffee hour
Duplicate Bridge
Cribbage
Senior Dances
Needle Arts Club
Evening BridgeClub
Cross Country Skiing
Added another monthly Foot Care Clinic
Special Outings & Events
Hosted Pancake Breakfast at Plymouth on Parade
Visited and brought treats to the English as a Second Language Classes
Senior Crafters sell crafts at Autumn Arts Fair
Doubled our # of trips offered
Dreams I have for Plymouth Senior Services:
To offer more services to our old, old customers ie:
Vision Loss and Hearing Loss Support Groups
Home visiting volunteers that would visit home bound seniors in their homes and take
poinsettias at Holiday time, Candy and Flowers at Valentine's Day and Pumpkin pies at
Thanksgiving, etc..
Start a conference call chain that would allow home bound seniors to interact with each other.
Help seniors get computers at home so they could communicate with the outside world.
To offer more programs to the mid -old:
Such as to fully explore the arts with art, drama, writing, music and dance
Ie: A Jazz Dance Performing Group and a One Act Play Performing Group Computers
To include the Young Old in programming ideas:
Offer a few programs at night to help the young old to ease into retirement
A Coffee Club
A Night on the Town Group
Cultural Diversity goals:
To work toward involving the people of other cultures to feel comfortable at our Center.
le: Friendship Circles
Intergenerational goals:
To work toward bridging the generation gaps:.
Amongst our senior population
Between our younger adults and older adults
Between our children and older adults
Community Service and Outreach:
Provide opportunities for people to volunteer in the community and here at the center
le: Older Adults in Service