Thompson Times Subscription Subscription year runs from September 2026 through August 2027 and is printed 6 times throughout the year. Price is pro-rated as the year progresses.

Pearl Harbor - December 7, 1941 - “A day that will live in infamy.” In this presentation, we discuss Japan’s surprise attack and how it came about, the U.S. and Japanese relationship over the 90 years before the fateful date, and how each side misunderstood the other leading to this catastrophic attack. We will learn how it was planned, carried out, and what it cost each side. Presenter: Historian Frank Sachs

Step into the rich pageantry and fascinating history of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival as TPAC presents The Legacy of the Royal Mantles. Discover the remarkable story behind the magnificent 18-foot ceremonial robes created after 1953, when Winter Carnival royalty traveled to England for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and brought royal tradition back to Minnesota. Exquisitely adorned, these extraordinary mantles have been lovingly preserved for generations. Join us for this special presentation featuring these historic garments, captivating stories from the archives, and a rare glimpse into one of St. Paul’s most treasured traditions. A truly regal morning of history, heritage, and hometown pride! Presenter: Winter Carnival Royalty members

Join us for a thoughtful afternoon of music, remembrance, and gratitude as we honor the courage and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. Veterans Day invites us to pause—to remember those who served in conflicts long past and to hold in our thoughts those who continue to serve in an often uncertain world. Featuring the talented trombone ensemble T-Bone Time, performing beloved patriotic selections including “America the Beautiful”, “God Bless America”, “The Stars and Stripes Forever”, and a moving Armed Forces medley recognizing each branch of military service. Together, we gather not to measure history’s decisions, but to honor those who answered the call and to reflect with gratitude and hope for peace. Registration required.

Enjoy an engaging and delicious coffee adventure with Sam Kjellberg from SK Coffee. Experience a private guided coffee tasting featuring three unique coffees, learn the roasting process firsthand, and discover what gives each roast its distinct flavor. Everyone will also take home a small bag of freshly roasted coffee from the session. A wonderful outing for anyone who appreciates a great cup of coffee. Meet at 550 Vandalia St, St Paul at 10:30 am; or Car Pool meets at TPAC at 10 am. Presenter: Sam Kjellberg, SK Coffee

Learn a new technique and transform a blank canvas into a stunning floral masterpiece! Begin by filling your page with vibrant colors, then use a black ink to create cheerful blooms and intricate details that bring your design to life. Finally, add shimmering gold or silver accents to the background, creating a striking contrast and an elegant finished piece. No two creations are alike - truly a form that develops before your eyes and is uniquely your own. You'll be amazed at what you create! Facilitator: Johanna Nelson

Thinking about your future housing options? Join us for an informative presentation focused on aging well in West St. Paul. Explore important questions about aging in place, home safety modifications, and whether staying in your current home is the best fit. Learn about available community services to help you stay in your home, available resources, and housing options including condos, cooperatives, Dakota County’s Senior Housing Program, independent living, and assisted living apartments. Presenter: Jess Luce, sponsored by Dakota County Public Health, Thompson Park Activity Center, and Living Longer and Stronger in West St. Paul

You'll love the matinee performance of Annie! Based on the popular comic strip, Annie tells the story of a spunky little orphan full of optimism who shines through the most difficult situations. Unlike the other children at the dreary orphanage, Annie believes that her parents will one day return to claim her. In a stroke of luck, she ends up in the lap of luxury with Depression-era billionaire Oliver "Daddy" Warbucks. When Warbucks offers to adopt her, she asks for help. Warbucks' whopping reward for Annie's parents attracts the attention of con artists who hatch a plot to kidnap Annie and take the reward. But no worries! This splashy family musical has a happy ending for Annie, Sandy, Daddy Warbucks and the whole gang. Annie features hit songs including "Tomorrow", "NYC" and "It's the Hard Knock Life"!Enjoy lunch before the show. You'll choose from a limited seasonal menu upon arrival.If there is time between lunch and the production, feel free to venture to the gift shop.

This welcoming and judgment-free workshop invites older adults to deepen their cultural understanding and support of LGBTQ youth. No prior knowledge is needed—just a willingness to learn. Explore inclusive language, the coming-out process, and the unique challenges LGBTQ individuals face in homes, schools, and communities. Through respectful discussion and guided activities, participants gain tools to become compassionate allies, reduce bias, and help build a more inclusive and connected community for all. Presenter: Trevor Project MN

Being a caregiver as a spouse, child, or friend of an aging adult can take a toll. Your life is simply not the same. Access to information is key to navigating aging in a positive way. The caregiver support group comes together with trained facilitators to learn about topics relevant to this role. Sponsored by Darts

Get creative this holiday season at Christmas Rock, a hands-on rock painting class where all materials are provided. Guided by an experienced instructor, participants will design and decorate their own festive rock—perfect to keep as a seasonal keepsake or to give as a heartfelt handmade gift. Have fun and explore your creativity. Join us for a relaxing, joyful workshop that blends art, holiday spirit, and a little winter magic into something uniquely your own.

Register here to board the bus at Thompson Park Activity Center ~ TWO DATE OPTIONS!On our way to Duluth, stop at Tobies for a pastry or snack (on your own). Lunch will be at Canal Park Brewing in Duluth. Choose menu choice when your register: Canal Park Club and Fries or Classic Burger and Fries Following lunch, we head to Glensheen Mansion located on the shores of Lake Superior. The small rooms of the estate are decorated for the Holiday Season. The tour will view the family living and workspaces showcasing original interiors in styles ranging from Renaissance Revival and Colonial Revival to Arts & Crafts. Guests can view the basement, first floor, and second floor. Next, stop at Bayfront Festival Park to experience “Bentleyville Tour of Lights.” Local volunteers work for weeks to put together a magic place to celebrate the Holiday Season with the Duluth community. The area usually has fluffy snowflakes and crisp cool temperatures. Walk through the remarkable display with millions of lights, Christmas trees and music. There is a gift store inside a warm building, plus an open-air merchandise area with about 15 Fire Pits. Throughout the 20-acre area, there is complimentary hot coco, coffee, popcorn, cookies, and marshmallows that you can roast over the fire. Donations accepted in the donation bins throughout the park. Quick bathroom stop at Tobies on the way home. Tues, Dec 1 Depart TPAC 10:45 am/Return 10 pm $135 - Register by Fri, Oct 30 - OR -Wed, Dec 9 Depart TPAC 10:45 am/Return 10 pm $135 - Register by Fri, Nov 6

Many people are becoming curious about backyard chickens and ducks. Join Dana and Craig of Flock Sitting MN, Minnesota’s premier chicken and duck sitting service, for a fascinating senior-friendly presentation exploring friendly fowl. Learn about chicken and duck breed identification, flock personalities and dynamics, egg-related topics, seasonal care, enrichment activities, and important bird health and safety practices. Discuss how flock owners responsibly care for their birds through Minnesota’s changing seasons while enjoying fun stories, practical knowledge, and lively conversation about these increasingly popular feathered companions. Presenters: Dana & Craig, Flock Sitting MN

This informative class will introduce Senior Cooperative Housing as both a financial and community-centered living option for older adults. Participants will learn how cooperatives differ from rentals, condominiums, assisted living, and skilled nursing care, while exploring governance, management, equity models, financial safeguards, and Minnesota’s pioneering role in senior cooperatives. This presentation will also explain how cooperatives foster community and offer guidance on researching properties, touring communities, and joining waitlists. The goal: educate seniors about an important housing option — not to promote any specific cooperative. Presenter: Arty Dorman, Resident of Real Life Co Op

Craft notes of kindness with fellow volunteers. These messages will be included in locally delivered Meals on Wheels and brighten someone's day! On occasion, we make cards for other causes as well. All materials are supplied. Cardstock donations are accepted and appreciated. Facilitator: Rita Schnoor

A secure financial future begins with a solid estate plan. Join Terrie Amundson for an informative workshop covering wills, trusts, retirement accounts, tax-efficient strategies, and legacy planning. Learn how to protect loved ones, transfer wealth thoughtfully, and explore tools such as Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and Roth conversions. Participants will receive a workbook to help create a personalized estate planning blueprint. Presenter: Terrie Amundson, CFP

While cribbage is fun and easy, there is always something new to learn! In this environment, your fellow players are patient and will help you count your score. Learn the game of cribbage and new strategies as you joyfully peg your way to victory. Enjoy a dash of friendly competition and fun

Nestled within the beautiful surroundings of Dakota County's Thompson Park, the Thompson Park Activity Center provides services and programs for adults of all ages and from all communities. TPAC is located at 1200 Stassen Lane, just off Butler Avenue and offers programming Monday - Thursday, 9 am to 4 pm. We welcome you, so visit us soon! Thompson Park Activity Center graciously accepts tax-deductible donations. If making a donation over $25, please indicate if you would like to have your name acknowledged in the Thompson Times publication.