(507) 387-1666
421 East Hickory Street, Mankato, MN 56001
421 East Hickory Street, Mankato, MN 56001
The VINE Adult Community Center offers hundreds of fitness, educational, and creative classes and monthly bus trips to local and out-of-town destination.
Memoir Writing
This group meets weekly to work on their own memoirs. Open to all VACC members. No need to sign up, just simply show up.
Painting
This group meets weekly to paint. Open to all VACC members. No need to sign up, just simply show up.
Spelling
This group meets weekly to compete in a friendly competition Spelling Bee. No need to sign up, just simply show up.
VINE Book Club
Any VACC member is welcome to join the VINE Book Club. The group meets once a month to discuss the book. The books are free to check out and can be picked up at the front desk of the VACC.
YARN CLUB
Grab a ball of yarn, a set of needles or a crochet hook, and let’s get creative! Come when you want. Stay as long as you want. Bring your own supplies (and questions)! You may bring a project you are working on. There will also be several patterns available for easy projects such as a felted bowl, a bunny blanket, and a mitered pot holder. Knitters and crocheters of all levels are invited!
Cost: No charge. Members only. Bring your own supplies. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 the day before the meeting to let us know you are coming. The number of participants is limited to 12.
EXPLORE VARIOUS MEDIA OF ART
Have you ever wanted to try drawing, painting, or other forms of art? Art on the VINE is offering a monthly exploration group for anyone interested in sharing these experiences. Every level of interest is welcome to come join in the fun.
LEARNING TO DRAW SERIES
This is a three-week, two-hour series of drawing experiences. One or all can be attended.
January 9: Guide drawings from two-dimensional subjects to two-dimensional drawings.
January 16: Guided drawings of three-dimensional still life subjects.
January 23: Portrait studies from both two-dimensional and three-dimensional subjects.
Supplies needed: Minimum-size drawing pad 12”x16”, ebony pencil, and white or gum eraser. These classes are free to VINE members; $5 per session for non-members.
RUSSIAN CULTURE TRIP IN THE TWIN CITIES
Our day starts off at the Museum of Russian Art. There will be a guided tour of the collection as well as time to see the special exhibit, “After the Explosion: Documenting Chernobyl.” A family style lunch is at Moscow on the Hill. After lunch, Fr. Andrew Morbey will give a tour of St. Mary’s Cathedral, an Orthodox Church founded by Russian immigrants in 1887. Price includes lunch.
Cost: $70 Call the Community Education at (507) 387-5501 to sign up and pay with a credit card by 1/2.
COME SOAR WITH US AT MALL OF AMERICA
Following a lunch at the Radisson Blue Mall of America, take flight on a ride like no other — FlyOver America. You’ll soar over some of the U.S.’s most iconic locations, without ever leaving Minnesota. Tourists and locals are calling it the hottest attraction to ever hit Mall of America. After, you’ll have time to explore and shop the Mall of America.
Cost: $60 Call the Community Education at (507) 387-5501 to sign up and pay with a credit card by 1/17.
THE BIKINIS ARRIVE AT DAYTRIPPERS THEATER
Back together again for the first time in 20 years, these “Jersey Girls” will deliver sun, fun and a rockin’ good time. A girl group from the Jersey Shore reunites to raise money for the good folks at Sandy Shores Mobile Home Beach Resort. They will relive their past hits that include “It’s In His Kiss,” “Yellow Polka Dot Bikini,” and “Heat Wave.”
Cost: $72 Call the Community Education at (507) 387-5501 to sign up and pay with a credit card by 2/21.
BELL MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM
The day starts with going to the Planetarium show, “Out of This World!” Investigate the phases of the moon, be the first humans to land on Mars, and fly through the rings of Saturn. Then we will go on a guided tour at Minnesota’s official natural history museum and planetarium. Explore the far reaches of the universe, see a glimpse of the diversity of life on Earth, meet a woolly mammoth, and learn about researchers imagining a better future. Before, we will have lunch on your own at the Rosedale Mall.
Cost: $54 *lunch not included Call the Community Education at (507) 387-5501 to sign up and pay with a credit card by 3/13.
A DAY AT THE MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM
Enjoy a 4-hour day at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, winner of USA TODAY’S 10 Best Readers’ Choice contest as Best Botanical Garden. You can visit their 1,200 acres of beautiful gardens, landscapes, tree and plant collections, and many specialty displays. Included is a “Flowerpot Lunch,” a guided tram tour and a discount at the Gift & Garden Store.
Cost: $65 Call the Community Education at (507) 387-5501 to sign up and pay with a credit card by 4/6.
WHAT DEVICE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Explore the pros and cons of desktops versus laptops and tablets. Learn what you can and cannot do with these devices.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 12/13 to register.
HOW TO BACK UP YOUR DATA FILES
Be certain that your data is backed up and secure. Learn to create full copies of your computer or create backups of single files or folders. Backups and data security will be explained in easy-to-understand language.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 17 to register.
GETTING MORE OUT OF MICROSOFT WORD
Most computers come equipped with the Word software. This is a powerful software that many of us use more like a typewriter. Learn some of the expanded easy functions of Microsoft Word to turn out documents that will impress.
Cost: No charge for members; $5 for non-members. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/14 to register.
Group Fitness classes are FREE with a Premium or Platinum membership, $5 with Basic membership, $7 with Supporting Membership or $10 for non-members.
BARRE ABOVE
Barre Above® incorporates Pilates, yoga, aerobics and a variety of strength training exercises commonly used by dancers. This class can help improve posture, flexibility and balance while finding the strength of your inner dancer! (No dance skills required.) We will have yoga mats available but bring your own if you’d like.
BASIC YOGA
Basic Yoga will challenge you physically while helping maintain and improve your flexibility and form.
BEGINNING YOGA
If you have little or no yoga experience, our beginning yoga class will teach you some of the basic poses.
CARDIO-STRENGTH
Participants in Cardo-Strength will be challenged each week with a variety of aerobic and strength training activities: you never know what to expect!
CHAIR YOGA
10:15 – 11:15 am
This class is for those individuals who want to try yoga but are unable to get down onto the floor. Many yoga poses can be done from a chair rather than the ground.
GENTLE YOGA
Gentle Yoga focuses on moving slowly through poses with awareness on form and breath.
MOVE IT MORE
Movie it More offers a challenging workout for those with little or no difficulty with balance and walking.
PARTNERS IN ACTIVE LIVING (PALS)
PALS is a great class for those who want a safe and gradual increase in their activity level to improve strength, flexibility and balance. PALS is suitable for people of all fitness levels, including those who use a cane or walker.
QIGONG PRACTICE GROUP
Qigong incorporates coordinated body postures and movement with breathing and meditation. All activities can be done sitting or standing, and no previous Qigong experience is necessary.
RESTORATIVE YOGA
Restorative Yoga focuses on deep relaxation where poses are held for several minutes. Some yoga experience is required and class size is limited to eight students. Pre-registration is required. Call 386-5586.
ROLL AWAY THE TENSION
Using Yoga Tune-Up Balls®, you’ll massage muscles that are overused, underused, or misused. “Body blind spots” will be identified and targeted to help heal and strengthen damaged muscles while establishing healthy movement patterns. Activities will be done on the floor or against a wall. No registration required; join any class.
STRETCH AND FLEX
Start your day with some gentle stretches. Staying flexible can help you move better throughout your day and prevent common muscle injuries. In this 30-minute class you will move through simple stretches that target your upper, middle, and lower body muscles. Some stretches will be done from the floor. Warming up your muscles prior to class is recommended.
TE-KI-DO
This unique blend of easy martial arts was designed for people with little or no knowledge of its practice. The class is a way for older adults to increase their energy, improve balance, and decreases stress.
TREKKERS/SNOWSHOERS
Join the fun and adventurous trekking/snowshoeing group who meet rain or shine at different parks and trails in the area each week for a leisurely one-hour outing. Trekking poles and snowshoes are available to members for FREE or $10 for non-members. Call 507-387-1666 to find out the location each week.
View ScheduleZUMBA GOLD
Zumba Gold is designed with active older adults in mind: gentle on the body and easy-to-follow dance moves. If you enjoy listening to fun music while you dance, then ditch your workout and join the party!
The VINE Adult Community Center offers a number of different activities to partake in.
FOOT CARE CLINIC
Pathstone Home Care staffs this monthly foot care clinic. Bring your own basin and towel. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 to schedule an appointment.
Cost: $27
THE ORIGINS OF PCs FOR PEOPLE
PCs For People was formed when a single computer was given to a boy in the Mankato area 20 years ago because he had an aptitude for computers but could not afford one. It is now a national non-profit that has given out thousands of computers to date to low-income individuals. Found Andy Elofson is a social worker for Blue Earth County.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 12/10 to register.
Register NowAN INSIDE LOOK AT CITY OF MANKATO BUDGET, PROJECTS
Councilor Mike Laven will provide an overview of the recently approved Mankato city budget and the projects planned for 2020, including roads, parks and more. In addition, he will talk about council-reviewed feasibility studies on a potential recreation/sports complex, and the next steps in the process of using sales tax proceeds for those projects.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 12/11 to register.
Register NowA TASTE OF THE LAKOTA CULTURE
What did medicine look like 150 years ago? This class will cover five common plants that most people aren’t even aware are growing in their own yard and their uses. In addition, it will provide a history of plant medicinals.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 12/16 to register.
Register NowCOMPLEXITIES OF DRUG INTERACTIONS TO BE DISCUSSED
Nate Evers is a Medication Therapy Management (MTM) pharmacist at the Mankato Clinic. He is a medication expert uniquely qualified to provide patient care aimed at optimizing medication use. He works closely with patients and their provider to solve any medication-related problems; reviewing all medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and herbal Nate Evers supplements. Nate helps simplify complex medications regimens, recommends less-expensive alternatives, and checks for medication side effects as well as drug interactions.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 12/17 to register.
Register NowICE FISHING 101: LEARN FROM THE PROS
Everything you have always wanted to know about ice fishing, from clothing, electronics, equipment, to anything you may need to get out on the ice. Scheels experts Zack and Cole will share great tips, show the latest gear and answer all of your questions.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 1/6 to register.
Register NowAUTHOR ALLEN ESKENS SHARES AUTHOR’S LIFE
From journalism to the law to best-selling author, Allen Eskens has come to his latest success following an interesting path. Author of books including “The Life We Bury” and “The Guise of Another,” he is the recipient of the Barry Award, Minnesota Book Award, Rosebud Award (Left Coast Crime), and Silver Falchion Award. “The Life We Bury” is in development for a feature film. Eskens has retired from practicing law.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 1/13 to register.
Register NowHEARING LOSS AND HOW TO TREAT IT
Hearing loss can affect people of all ages and can vary from mild to profound. For those experiencing a hearing problem, audiologists can perform tests to determine which portion of hearing is affected and to what degree. They can also provide solutions and recommendations to improve hearing and quality of life. Learn more about hearing loss and the impact it can have on you and everyone around you.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 1/14 to register.
Register NowA HISTORY OF THE MANKATO POST OFFICE
Originally built in 1896 and expanded in 1932 and 1965, this building has been a prominent structure in downtown Mankato all these years and is now for sale. Tim will share the uses and history of this building gained through his research at the Blue Earth County Historical Society and from people who worked there.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 1/20 to register.
Register NowVIEWING, DISCUSSION OF NETFLIX’S “13TH
Bukata Hayes, Greater Mankato Diversity Council Executive Director, Facilitator; Josh Milow, Blue Earth County Community Corrections Director, and Sharrise Truesdale-Moore, Minnesota State Mankato Corrections Program Coordinator, Panelists
We will view and discuss the thought-provoking documentary where scholars, activists and politicians analyze the criminalization of African Americans and the U.S. prison boom. We will invite locals who work with the justice system to join us.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 1/28 to register.
Register NowGET YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW: A GIFT TO THOSE YOU LOVE
This program will provide guidance for gathering and storing significant personal information so it’s available to your loved ones after you die. Join VINE staff and others for this important discussion. Give yourself and your family a sense of security and peace of mind. A guidebook can be purchased for $10 and includes all of the information you need.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/3 to register.
Register NowEMERALD ASH BORER AND OTHER PESTS
The emerald ash borer only attacks ash trees. At this time, emerald ash borer has been detected about 57 miles from Mankato—the Department of Agriculture recommends no treatment until it is discovered within 15 miles—but the City of Mankato is preparing for that time.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/4 to register.
Register NowLIFE IN BELIZE
Christopher Crowell and Kristin Fisher have made headlines recently for their renovation work on The Hunt House in Mankato, but each has spent considerable time in the Central American country of Belize. They will speak about the culture and traditions, and events in everyday life, sharing experiences and photos.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/10 to register.
Register NowCARING FOR THE MATURE EYE
Are you holding the newspaper farther away from your eyes than you used to? Join the crowd – age can bring changes that affect your eyesight. Some changes are more serious than others, but for many problems, there are things that can be done to protect vision.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/18 to register.
Register NowHOMELESSNESS IN THE MANKATO AREA
Winter in Minnesota can be fierce, particularly for the homeless. Join us for a panel discussion featuring organizations that provide shelter and other supports for people who are homeless in our region. Guest panelists will focus on causes of homelessness, available services and supports, homelessness prevention, and how we can make a difference. Panelists will answer questions from the audience.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/24 to register.
Register NowFIVE WISHES
Don’t put it off another day; complete your healthcare directive! Five Wishes will help you plan for care at the end of life and express how you want to be treated if you are unable to speak for yourself. The presentation will include a 30-minute DVD with instructions on how to complete your Five Wishes document.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. $5 for the Five Wishes document for ALL participants. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 2/28 to register.
Register NowCONNECT TO PLACE: DAKOTA AND THE MINNEOPA BISON
Dakota people helped prepare for and welcome bison at Minneopa State Park in Mankato when they were moved from Blue Mounds State Park. This partnership showed respect for the significance of bison to the Dakota culture and added another layer of meaning to their return. Learn about the role the Dakota played in Gwen Westerman welcoming bison back to their homeland and gain a wider perspective on how Mankato area people interact with the Dakota culture every day.
Cost:FREE for VINE members; $5 for the public. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 3/2 to register.
Register NowTAKE A RIDE THROUGH KIWANIS HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Veterans and their spouses can enjoy a casual ride through the Kiwanis Holiday Lights in one of VINE’s buses.
Leave the driving to us and we’ll take you through one of Southern Minnesota’s finest Christmas light displays in Mankato’s Sibley Park. If you’d like, bring a non-perishable food or cash donation. Proceeds from the event benefit local food shelves, non-profit organizations who serve as volunteers and create tree displays in the park, and Kiwanis programs to assist children.
Cost: The tour is provided free of charge to veterans and their spouses or survivors through a grant from the Veterans 4 Veterans Trust Fund. Call the VACC at (507) 386-5586 by 12/16 to register.
| MONDAY | TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY | SATURDAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open Swim 7:30-9 am | Open Swim 7:30-10 am | Open Swim 7:30-9 am | Open Swim 7:30-10 am | Open Swim 7:30-9 am | Open Swim 8-10 am |
| Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 9-10 am | Warm Water Exercise - Level 3 10-10:45 am | Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 9-10 am | Warm Water Exercise - Level 3 10-10:45 am | Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 9-10 am | *Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 10-11 am |
| Open Swim 10-11 am | Aqua Yoga (level 1) 11-11:45 am | Deep Water Exercise (level 2/3) 10:15-11 am | Aqua Yoga (level 1) 11-11:45 am | Open Swim 10 am - 12 pm | *Aqua Zumba in place of Warm Water Exercise 1st Sat. of the month 10-11 am |
| Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 1 11:15 am - 12 pm | Open Swim 12-1 pm | Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 1 11:15 am - 12 pm | Open Swim 12-1 pm | Private Rental 1-5 pm | Open Swim 11-11:30 am |
| Open Swim 12-1 pm | Private Rental 1-5 pm | Open Swim 12-1 pm | Private Rental 1-5 pm | ||
| Private Rental 1-3 pm | Warm Water Exercise (level 1/2) 5:15-6 pm | Private Rental 1-3 pm | Open Swim 5-6:30 pm | ||
| Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 3-4 pm | Open Swim 6-6:30 pm | Warm Water Exercise Class - Level 2 3-4 pm | |||
| Open Swim 4-6:30 pm | Open Swim 4-6:30 pm |
Level 1: Gentle movement including walking, stretching, and balance activities. May include use of noodles, kickboards, and weights.
Level 2: May include jogging, jumping, twisting, and constant movement. Weights, kickboards, and noodles are often incorporated.
Level 3: May include deep water exercise and rigorous movement. Weights, kickboard, noodles, and water belts are often incorporated.
