Discover practical, research-based strategies to support memory and thinking at every age. This engaging program highlights everyday habits—like physical activity, nutrition, and lifelong learning—that may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. You’ll learn why brain health matters now and in the years ahead. Leave with a simple, personalized plan you can put into action right away. Presenter: Alzheimer’s Association, Minnesota Chapter

Discover how drones help protect our community. Since 2015, the Dakota County Sheriff's Office Drone Unit has located missing children and seniors, documented crash and crime scenes, assisted at major fires, and safely tracked suspects—reducing risk for first responders and the public. Sean Qualy will share real-life examples, answer questions, and offer a live drone demonstration. Youth are encouraged to attend with a parent or grandparent for a meaningful, multi-generational learning experience. Presenter: Sean Qualy, Dakota County Sheriff’s Office

This dynamic Level 2 Conversational Spanish course delves deeper into greetings, practical phrases, numbers, family, food, hobbies, and more complex interactions. Perfect for those with basic Spanish knowledge. Prior elementary Spanish experience recommended. Our instructor ensures an engaging and immersive experience using gestures, visuals, and real-life scenarios to enhance learning. Join this enriching language journey! Instructor: Dick Milles, former Spanish Instructor, Metropolitan State University

This engaging course covers greetings, practical phrases, numbers, family, food, hobbies, and more. Ideal for newcomers, No prior Spanish experience required. Our instructor ensures a stress-free, immersive experience using gestures and visuals for easy learning. Join this enjoyable language journey. Register early. Instructor: Dick Milles, former Spanish Instructor, Metropolitan State University

Hearing health is linked to social engagement and cognitive health and should not be neglected. This informative session explores key aspects of hearing health. Learn how your hearing works, see examples of modern hearing aids and accessories, and about valuable resources for tinnitus treatment. This session offers valuable insights to help you stay informed and connected. Don't miss this opportunity to ask questions and gain expert guidance on hearing wellness. Instructor: Rebecca Younk, Clinical Audiologist with Associated Hearing Care

The earliest written evidence of the language we call “English” dates from the 7th century of the Common Era. Who created it and where did its speakers come from? To which other languages were they most closely related? Explore how it is possible to reconstruct the prehistory of language relationships, how English changed since its first written appearance and what the major epochs of its subsequent development are. Learn how changes in language and society are dynamically interconnected! Presenter: George Sheets, emeritus professor of Classical Studies at the University of Minnesota

Ruth Bader Ginsburg brought this case before the Supreme Court, in which men were the victims of discrimination, but she also demonstrated that it discriminated against women. In addition, Ginsburg brought other cases where women were victims. In doing so, Ginsburg won from the courts important constitutional rights for women across the nation. The (Honk & Holler) - Craig v. Boren case ruling has been cited in over 1,000 other cases and continues to influence gender equality rulings today. Presenter: Frank Sachs

Hydrogen and helium are gaining attention across Minnesota—but what do they mean for our state’s energy future? Join Don Elsenheimer with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, for a clear, balanced overview of the science, supply potential, regulatory process, and public debate surrounding their development. Explore the opportunities, environmental considerations, and policy decisions shaping what comes next. An informative program with time for thoughtful questions and discussion. Presenter: Don Elsenheimer, PhD, Gas Production Regulatory Mgr, MN DNR

Preview upcoming trips and learn about the ease and excitement of escorted travel. TPAC collaborates with Landmark Tours, a locally-owned, family-operated tour company rooted in the community, to fulfill your travel dreams. Catalogs available at TPAC. Drop-ins welcome. Presenter: Landmark Tours Representative

Discover the art of leatherworking in this hands-on beginner’s course! Whether you're looking to craft your own wallets, bags, or accessories, Leathercraft 101 will teach you the essential skills to get started. Learn how to select the right leather, master cutting and stitching techniques, and finish your projects with a professional touch. Through guided instruction and practical exercises, you’ll create your own handcrafted leather items while gaining the confidence to continue your leathercraft journey. All supplies and materials included. Instructor: Jim Kern

Experiencing bladder leakage, urgency, or frequent trips to the bathroom? You’re not alone—and effective help is available. This informative workshop explains why urinary issues occur, how the pelvic floor and bladder work together, and practical steps you can take to improve symptoms and regain confidence. Led by a physical therapist with 25+ years of experience and advanced certification in pelvic health. This supportive session welcomes your questions in a respectful, educational setting. Presenter: Sarah Glesmann, Sakura Pelvic Health

Come learn about the predatory lending landscape in our state - what to watch out for, how to get help, and how you can advocate for a safer marketplace in Minnesota. Exodus Lending is a nonprofit organization who has helped Minnesotans escape predatory debt cycles for over 10 years. They help refinance people out of predatory loans and offer alternative loans through nonprofit partners; and also organize community members and advocate for legislation that protects consumers. Presenter: Meghan Olsen Biebighauser, Exodus Lending

Dakota/Diné filmmaker Leya Hale, producer of the powerful documentary Medicine Ball will share her inspiring film where Leya explores how the game of basketball — introduced in Indian boarding schools — became a source of resilience, cultural pride, and community strength for Native athletes and their families. The film follows the journeys of Native college basketball players as they navigate life on a campus with a complex history, revealing how sport can be a bridge between past and present and a catalyst for empowerment. Presenter: Leya Hale, Dakota/Dine’ filmmaker

Join a lively chat with West St. Paul Mayor David Napier. We'll converse, share ideas, and discover how you can be the change that matters in our community. Enjoy delicious muffins and hot coffee as we connect and have a good time together. Let's make civic engagement as sweet as muffins!

We will be discussing general options for obtaining Medicare. This seminar is for you if you’re turning 65 or leaving an Employer Health Plan. No sales involved! Learn how and when to sign up for Medicare, Basic Medicare vocabulary, considerations to think about when choosing plans and why working with an independent agent at no cost to you, can assist you in making a smart choice. Instructors: Harvey Perle & Co. and Sheri Salloway Yarosh,

Join Naturalist Eloise Deitz each month for a fun, hands-on Nature Sense series at Thompson Park. Explore fall colors, create nature art, and uncover winter wildlife secrets. Eloise’s engaging style and deep knowledge make each session a delightful way to connect with the outdoors. May - Birds on the Fly After a brief discussion about the birds we’re most likely to spot (including their mating behaviors, nesting habits, and egg-laying patterns), we’ll head out on a guided birding hike through the TPAC woodlands, open grassy areas, and along the scenic Thompson Park Lake trail. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them; dress appropriately for the weather. Observe, listen, and enjoy the beauty of birds in their natural habitat. June - Summer Sentiments Bring with you and share a favorite summer reading, poem, song, story, picture or photo that manifests what "summer" is for you. Following this share fest, we will take a summer hike on TPAC trails. July - A Summer Garden Tour Back by popular demand! Spend a delightful morning exploring several nearby neighborhood gardens, each uniquely designed and bursting with color at their July peak. Meet at Thompson Park at 9:15 am to check in and organize carpools before heading out together to each garden location. Along the way, enjoy conversation and the beauty of summer in full bloom. Return to TPAC around noon. Space is limited, reserve your spot early. August - The Taste of Summer Summer is bursting with flavor in our gardens and in the wild! Join us for a hands-on, sensory adventure as we explore what’s ripe, ready, and delicious this season. Together we’ll identify, gather, and sample the fresh bounty that makes summer so memorable. Come curious and ready to savor the season.

If you need some ‘piece of mind’, this might help you see the big picture! Join us for a fun and relaxing afternoon of puzzling! We’ll have tables set up with a variety of puzzles from our lending library, or bring one of your own to share. Come for an hour or stay the whole afternoon. If you know of a professional puzzler, bring them along. Coffee and treats provided.

Beyond their prickly reputation you will find an often overlooked, yet compelling animal, unique to the forests in which it lives. From careful mating to seven-month pregnancy to self-defense of its own quills, the porky is special in many unexpected ways. The shed quills are the basis of creating some of the best-known native embroidery art. From working with a non-releasable porky to teaching birch bark and quill work, Melonie Shipman has found many endearing traits of this little-known treetop dweller. You will, too. Presenter: Melanie Shipman, Traveling Naturalist

Learn American Sign Language (ASL) and start here! This short, beginner-friendly class is designed especially for older adults and offers more than just a new skill—it’s a great way to keep your mind sharp, improve memory, and boost cognitive health. Taught by a patient and experienced instructor, you can discover the joy of new learning and the power of connection through ASL. Instructor: Suzanne Downs

Most retirees plan taxes year by year. But lasting retirement success requires a long-term strategy. Join CFP® professional Terrie Amundson for this practical session on reducing lifetime taxes — not just this year’s bill. Learn how Social Security and Medicare surcharges really work, avoid costly mistakes, prepare for future tax law changes, and determine when Roth conversions make sense. You’ll leave with clear strategies and a helpful take-home workbook to guide your next moves with confidence. Instructor: Terrie Amundson, CFP® and Mendota Heights resident

Designed especially for senior women who want to feel confident, aware and prepared, this workshop focuses on practical skills you can use in real life. Learn how to prevent attacks before they happen. We welcome women age 14+, but special attention will be given to techniques that are realistic and adaptable for older adults. Modifications will be offered to ensure comfort and safety for all. You will practice techniques using striking pads, so dress comfortably for light movement. A waiver will be provided due to the physical nature. Master Instructor: Jena Bushey, Legacy Martial Arts

For three weeks in May, join us to read and discuss The Book of Kin: On Absence, Love, and Being There by St. Paul writer Jennifer Eli Bowen, founder of the Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop. Published by Milkweed Editions, this moving essay collection explores family, community, and belonging. Professors emerita Peter Rachleff and Beth Cleary will guide lively, thoughtful conversations, building on their previous discussions of James with TPAC participants. Please acquire or borrow your own book to bring to class. Presenters: Peter Rachleff & Beth Cleary, co-founders of the East Side Freedom Library What to expect in this course~ Please buy the book as soon as you can and start reading! Milkweed Editions is a local press, and local independent bookstores should either have it in stock or be able to order it quickly. Here is how we will discuss the book in 3 sections: For Meeting #1, May 14, read pp. 1 - 82 For Meeting #2, May 21, read pp. 83 - 159 For Meeting #3, May 28, read pp. 160 - end We only have an hour together each week, so we will be offering prompts during class (1st week) and ahead of class (weeks 2 and 3) to help organize discussion.

After the American Revolution, western North Carolina was left loosely governed under the weak Articles of Confederation. Frustrated settlers took matters into their own hands and attempted to form a brand-new state called Franklin. Join historian Matthew Carter as he shares the dramatic story of this forgotten frontier experiment — why it began, why it failed, and how it directly influenced the U.S. Constitution’s rules for creating new states. A fascinating look at early America’s growing pains and the challenges of self-government. Presenter: Matthew Carter, Executive Director, Dakota County Historical Society