Here’s What Is Happening

March 13, 2025

March/April Newsletter Corrections

Change to the morning book club for March and April:

• March 10 - The Berry Pickers: Amanda Peters
• April 14 - My Antonio: Willa Cather & To Kill a Mockingbird: Harper Lee

Armor Physical Therapy- DATE CHANGE

Armor PT will be here on Wednesday, March 19, from 2 – 3 PM . The newsletter lists Wednesday, March 12 

Important Update: Class Capacity and Waitlist Policy

Class space is limited for safety and effectiveness, with capacity based on space, equipment, seating, and instructor attention. When a class is full, members are placed on a waitlist in order of sign-up and notified if a spot opens.

Instructors cannot make exceptions, and pressuring them to do so is not acceptable. Please respect the waitlist system—showing up without confirmation will result in being turned away.

We understand the frustration, but the waitlist ensures fairness. Sign up early, track registration dates, and check your status if a class is full.

Thank you for helping keep our programs fair and accessible!

3 ways to register for Classes/Programs

1. MyActiveCenter (MAC) – Online Platform (see instructions below)
2. In person with a PZSC Staff Member
3. Phone Registration

Change in event! 

Eat, Move, Groove (Virtual via Zoom)

1 part workshop

Tuesday, March 18

2 – 3 PM

Free- Call to register at 269-329-4555

Celebrate National Nutrition Month! In this workshop, Susie will teach you how to implement the Eat, Move, Groove Program. You will learn simple ways to build meals and snacks and ways to build in more MOVE breaks during the day. Then, you will end with a focus on one of the key GROOVE areas each day. *If you do not have computer access to attend this class, we invite you to come in person to PZSC, where we will reserve a room for attendees. 

Coffee with a Cop (NEW!)

3rd Wednesday, March 19, April 16

10 AM – 12 PM

FREE and Open to the Public

If you've attended Coffee with the Fire Chief, you know how valuable these casual community meetups can be. Now, we’re excited to offer a new opportunity to connect with local law enforcement through Coffee with a Cop! This is your chance to engage with the officers who serve our community. Whether you’re interested in learning more about the latest policing strategies, discussing safety concerns, or simply meeting the officers in your neighborhood, we encourage you to join us for an open, informal conversation over a cup of coffee. We’re eager to hear your questions, share insights about our community’s safety initiatives, and strengthen our partnership with you. Don’t miss this great opportunity to connect! To register, please call (269) 329-4555.

Craft Workshop – Rustic Bunny    

Wednesday, March 19 

3 – 5 PM 

$25 Members / $30 Non-Members 

Instructed by: Ann Pierluissi  

Join us for our Rustic Bunny Craft Class and unleash your creativity! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create a charming rustic bunny using natural materials like faux tin, flowers, and other fun items. This class is perfect for all skill levels and offers a fun, relaxed atmosphere to connect with fellow craft enthusiasts. All materials will be provided, so just bring your imagination! Reserve your spot today, as space is limited! To register or for more information, please call (269) 329-4555. 

New Member Meet & Eat

Friday, March 21  

9 – 10:30 AM   

Free  

The PZSC Meet & Eat event is an excellent opportunity for anyone who has recently become a member of the Portage Zhang Senior Center or is considering joining. The event is designed to help you get to know the Center better and introduce you to the diverse programs and events that are scheduled throughout the year.  

During the event, you will be treated to a complimentary light breakfast while we provide you with an overview of all the PZSC has to offer. You will learn about the different programs and events tailored to the interests and needs of our members.  

This event is made possible by the generous support of StoryPoint Portage and Kalamazoo. To reserve your spot, please call (269) 329-4555. We can't wait to see you there!  

Memory & Cognition: Strategies for Safe and Functional Living

Friday, March 21 

11 AM – 1PM 

Free- Call to register at 269-329-4555 

Presented by: Kelly Blair, MA.,CCC-SLP and Shelby Henegar, OTD, OTR/L

This presentation will provide education pertaining to the cognitive-communication and swallowing changes that can occur with aging as well as education for aging in place and the importance of exercise for the aging population. Come join Kelly and Shelby from Mary Free Bed for an educational presentation with plenty of time for questions.

ThinkFirst to Prevent Falls  

Fridays, March 28 OR April 18  

1 - 3:30 PM  

Free Call to Register 

ThinkFirst to Prevent Falls is a free two-hour presentation on the basics of fall prevention for older adults. Topics covered include fear of falling, safety inside the home, community safety, exercise and many more. Participants are given resources for more extensive classes, exercise classes and other supporting programs to take advantage of in their community. This program is generously provided through Bronson Methodist Hospital. To register, please call (269) 329-4555. 

Wrangle Your Chaos: Mastering the Art of Junk Drawer Organization with Dan “The Organizer Man”

Thursday, April 3 

1 – 3 PM 

$15 Members / $20 Non-Members  

Instructed by: Dan Cunningham  

It’s time to tackle that chaotic junk drawer! Join The Organizer Man at the Zhang Portage Senior Center for a hands-on, laughter-filled junk drawer organization demo. Bring the contents of your drawer in a bag or box, and let’s sort, declutter, and organize together. You’ll learn practical tips and clever tricks to transform that mess into a functional and tidy space you can actually use.  

From sorting through forgotten treasures to creating easy-to-maintain systems, The Organizer Man will guide you step by step through the process. Don’t miss this fun and productive workshop - it’s the perfect excuse to finally tackle that one drawer you’ve been avoiding for years! Come ready to roll up your sleeves and leave with a sense of accomplishment and an organized drawer. Call (269) 329-4555 to register.   

Craft Workshop – Tree of Life        

Thursday, April 3 

3 – 5 PM 

$25 Members / $30 Non-Members  

Instructed by: Ann Pierluissi  

Create a beautiful and meaningful Tree of Life wreath. This unique craft features a circular design representing the cycle of life, with intricate branches and leaves representing family, friends, and the natural world. Using a variety of materials such as twine, moss, pebbles, and decorative beads, you can customize your wreath to reflect your personal style and the seasons. The earthy colors and textures bring warmth and a sense of harmony to any space. Hang your Tree of Life Wreath on your front door, on the wall, or as a centerpiece to celebrate nature’s beauty. This craft not only serves as a lovely decoration but also as a reminder of the intertwined relationships that shape our lives. Perfect for gift-giving or as a special project to enjoy with family and friends! Please call (269) 329-4555 to register.  

Ukulele All Levels    

Thursdays, April 10, 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15  

10:30 AM – 12 PM 

$80 Members / $90 Non-Members  

*Scholarships available to those who need assistance. Please inquire at time of registration.  

Instructed by: Josh Holcomb        

Unlock your musical potential and boost your health with the joy of playing the ukulele! Learning a new instrument isn't just fun; it enhances your eye-hand coordination, reduces stress, improves brain function, and sharpens your focus and mental clarity. Join us for an exciting six-week ukulele class that is perfect for beginners and anyone with some ukulele experience. Dive into the world of music as you learn chords, master techniques, and strum along to your favorite songs! Ukuleles are available for loan or you may bring your own. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to make music and have fun! To register, give us a call at (269) 329-4555.

Caregiver Day 2025 – Mar/Apr Newsletter CORRECTION!*

Saturday, May 17

10 AM – 2 PM

FREE and Open to the Public

*TO REGISTER, PLEASE CALL (269) 373-5141

Provided in Partnership with the Area Agency on Aging 3A Kalamazoo County’s Area Agency on Aging and the Portage Zhang Senior Center, we recognize how challenging the role of “Caregiver” can be. We want to express our gratitude to all informal caregivers caring for someone aged 60+ in Kalamazoo County. Your work makes a difference, is meaningful, and we appreciate all of you! Light refreshments and lunch are provided. If care for your person is needed in order to attend, let us know when you register. To register for this event, please call Patti Stratton, LMSW, at (269) 373-5141.

Event highlights include:

• Keynote Speaker: “Grief in Slow Motion” with Jill Terwilliger, M.Div., CPCC. Jill will explore the unique emotional journey of caregivers grieving the gradual loss of a loved one with chronic progressive conditions like dementia or Parkinson’s Disease. Through compassionate insight and practical strategies, this talk helps caregivers navigate the ongoing and often hidden grief they experience as they watch their loved one change over time.
• Massages
• Breakout Activities such as Mindful Movement through Cardio Drumming and a Guided Art Class.

SAVE THE DATE!  

Friends of the Portage Senior Center

29th Annual Golf Outing, Monday, May 19  

Mark your calendars for the 29th Annual Golf Outing, sponsored by the Friends of the Portage Senior Center! Join us on Monday, May 19, at The Moors Golf Club, a stunning championship course designed by Arthur Hills. This fun-filled day kicks off with a noon shotgun start and includes lunch, 18 holes of golf with a cart, exciting contests, a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, awards, strolling appetizer dinner, and more. 

Golfers of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate. Proceeds from this event directly support the Portage Zhang Senior Center’s many programs, services, and activities. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to enjoy a day on the greens while giving back to our community. For more details or to register, go to www.friendspsc.org. 

Travel Presentation – Premier World Discovery

Tuesday, May 6, 2025  

2-4 PM  

Registration Requested  

Register for an in-person presentation with Tracey Schenk of Premier World Discovery at the PZSC. Join us to learn about the fun and exciting trips offered through Premier World Discovery for 2025.  She will be presenting highlights of Nova Scotia & the Canadian Maritimes, Colorado Rockies, Rails & Western National Parks, Best of Australia & New Zealand, Treasures of Ireland, Italy’s Amalfi Coast & Rome, Sierra Snow Train, and Rose Parade New Year’s! Whether you enjoy staying stateside or traveling abroad, we will surely have something for everyone. Spots are limited. Call 269-324-9239 to register.

Travel With the PZSC!

Bi-Weekly Highlights

• 4/11 50 States in an RV- A Musical Comedy Shipshewana, MI $130 M / $140 NM Spots Available
• 4/16 Bob Dylan at Miller Auditorium Kalamazoo, MI $115 M / $125 NM (Minibus)
• 4/30 Vera Bradley Outlet Sale Fort Wayne, IN $75 M / $85 NM Spots Available
• 5/4 Pretty Woman at Devos Performance Hall Grand Rapids, MI $125 M / $135 NM Spots Available (Minibus)
• 5/13 Ain’t Too Proud at Miller Auditorium Kalamazoo, MI $90 M / $100 NM Spots Available (Minibus)
• 5/20 Genitti’s Hole-In-The-Wall Return Northville, MI $125 M / $135 NM
• 5/22 Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo Grand Rapids, MI $40 M / $45 NM (Minibus)
• 5/29 Daniel O’Donnell at Blue Gate Shipshewana, IN $125 M / $135 NM Spots Available (Minibus)
• 6/11 Architectural Gems of Ann Arbor and Detroit $130 M / $140 NM
• 6/22 Kalamazoo Growlers vs Kenosha Kingfish Kalamazoo, MI $85 M / $90 NM with All-Inclusive Food & Beverage Package
• 06/19 Chicago Cubs vs Milwaukee Brewers Chicago, IL $155 M / $165 NM Spots Available
• 7/18 Postmodern Jukebox at Blue Gate Shipshewana, IN $140 M / $150 NM 
• 8/13 Chicago White Sox vs Detroit Tigers at Guaranteed Rate Field Chicago, IL $125 M / $135 NM with All-Inclusive Food & Beverage Package & Bingo
• 08/20 Detroit Tigers vs Houston Astros at Comerica Park Detroit, MI $100 M / $110 NM Spots Available
• 09/21 Detroit Tigers vs Atlanta Braves at Comerica Park Detroit, MI $100 M / $110 NM Spots Available
• 9/29 Chicago Gangster Tour and Architecture River Boat Tour Chicago, IL $145 M / $155 NM
• 10/13-10/17 Grand Hotel Mackinac Island, MI $1500 PP Double Occupancy $1900 PP Single Occupancy

To view all the PZSC Travel opportunities please visit the Travel page on our website!

REMINDER: Cancellation/ Refund Policy for Classes & Programs

Please make sure to register early for all programs and classes offered by PZSC to ensure you get a spot and to avoid the cancellation of classes due to low enrollment. 

Effective immediately, the PZSC Cancellation Policy requires a 72-business hour (3 days) notice for all cancellations of classes and programs. If you need to cancel your reservation in a class, please do so at least 72-business hours in advance of the scheduled start time. Failure to provide the required notice will result in no refund or credit. Refunds will not be given after a program has begun unless there is a valid medical concern or emergency. 

However, if the cancellation is due to the discretion of PZSC, including weather advisories or instructor illness, a partial credit will be placed into the member’s account. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter. 

Please note that the cancellation/refund policy for travel-related reservations are handled differently.