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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. fin - _ f F j,4 -r r f _ 1 fl4 i. _4 A00" fion: 6randpareMs. Paren}s 81(i_ 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