Here’s What Is Happening

September 25, 2025

Your Voice Matters!

It’s time for our annual PZSC Membership Survey—and we’d love to hear from you!

Your feedback helps guide what programs, activities, and events we plan for the year ahead. We read every response and use your ideas to keep the center fresh, fun, and meaningful.

And don’t be shy about sharing the things you love, too! Compliments and positive feedback let us know what’s working well (and give our team a little boost of encouragement).

Click here to take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PZSC2025

It only takes a few minutes, but your input makes a BIG difference. Thanks for helping us make the Portage Zhang Senior Center the best it can be!

September/October Newsletter Now Available!

You can find an online version HERE, or pick up a paper copy at the PZSC Reception Desk!

September/October Newsletter Corrections:

Girlfriend Hour (pg.29) - cost of $5/person was inadvertently omitted from the listing.
Afternoon Book Club - dates were listed incorrectly in the Newsletter. Correct dates are Wednesday, September 3 (Beloved) and Wednesday, October 1 (Looking for Jane).
Armor Physical Therapy Dates are DIFFERENT DATES THAN THE NEWSLETTER LISTS. Days are on the 3rd Wednesday from 2 – 3 PM: September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17.

Volunteer Opportunity: Choir Director

Do you love music and enjoy working with older adults? We’re looking for a Volunteer Choir Director to lead our senior choir! This fun and rewarding role includes facilitating weekly rehearsals and coordinating occasional community performances. The choir takes a well-deserved break over the summer, offering you a lighter seasonal commitment. The Senior Center covers the cost of any necessary materials—come share your talent and help us make joyful music together!

AARP Foundation Seeks Community Tax-Aide Volunteers

Do you like to meet new people? Looking for a way to serve your community? Join the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide team.

Tax-Aide volunteers prepare personal income tax returns free of charge for area residents, with special attention to low- and moderate-income taxpayers, individuals with disabilities, and those age 50 and older. You’ll receive training and support, learn new skills, make a difference and new friends!

Training starts in November. In addition to tax preparers, Tax-Aide needs people who can provide technical and communications assistance and interpreters.

Membership Reminder: Avoid Non-Member Fees

From time to time, members ask why they were charged a non-member fee even though their membership is current. Here’s how it works:

If your membership is set to expire at any point during a multi-week class or series, our system automatically applies the non-member rate. Unfortunately, this is how the registration system is designed, and we’re not able to override it.

To avoid surprises, we encourage you to check your membership expiration date before registering. If you have questions or need help renewing, our staff will be happy to assist!

3 ways to Register for Programs and Classes at the PZSC

MyActiveCenter (MAC) – Online Platform
In person at the reception desk
Phone Registration

Priority for Taking Registration

On fitness registration day, priority will be as follows:

MyActiveCenter (MAC) has first priority
In-person registration has second priority
Phone Registration and Voicemails will have third priority

Please note: Phone Calls and Voicemails left earlier or before 8 AM will not be returned.

Save Time with Online Registration on MyActiveCenter (MAC)!

Did you know you can register for your favorite activities and events from the comfort of your own home? Our online registration system, MyActiveCenter (MAC), is exclusively available for current PZSC members.

With MAC, you can:
✔️ Browse upcoming programs and events
✔️ Register for activities anytime, anywhere
✔️ Pay securely online

Using MAC is easy, and we’re here to help you get started! For a step-by-step guide, check out a tutorial here.

Skip the lines and enjoy the convenience of managing your registrations at your fingertips. If you have questions or need assistance, give us a call at (269) 329-4555 or stop by the Center.

Sign in to MAC today and explore what’s coming up!

Need Help with Online Registration?

We’re hosting special Drop-In Hours to assist members with using our online registration system, MyActiveCenter (MAC).

Monday, October 13

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Portage Zhang Senior Center

No registration is required—just stop by! If you have a portable device (laptop, tablet, etc.), please bring it with you so we can walk you through the process directly.

Prefer to learn on your own? You can also check out our short tutorial video here: https://portagemi.gov/CivicMedia?VID=97

Holiday Bazaar & Bake Sale Calling All Bakers!

Share Your Talents & Support a Great Cause

Are you known for your irresistible cookies, pies, breads, or sweet treats? Do friends and family rave about your holiday baking? Here’s your chance to put your kitchen talents to good use and support your community at the same time! We’re looking for generous and talented bakers to donate homemade baked goods for the PZSC Annual Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale on Saturday, November 8, 2025. This cherished community event draws hundreds of shoppers looking for seasonal goodies, and your contributions help make it a delicious success! All proceeds from the Bake Sale go directly toward supporting the programs, services, and activities offered at the Portage Zhang Senior Center, benefiting older adults in our community year-round. Whether you can whip up a batch of your famous fudge, bake a tray of holiday cookies, or donate a homemade pie or loaf of bread, every item helps, and every bite makes a difference.

Interested in Donating Baked Goods? Please contact Kimberly Middleton, Deputy Director at (269) 329-4554.

Help us spread holiday cheer—one sweet bite at a time!

Podiatry Care NEW!

October 23, November 20

**Appointments still available!

9 AM – 5 PM

Call to register for your 15-minute appointment

*Please make sure your paperwork is completed before the day/time of your appointment. Paperwork can be found at the front desk or emailed digitally.

Dr. Jennifer Griffin, DPM will provide podiatric treatment for day-to-day problems including wound care, toenail clipping/ filing, fungal nail infections, ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, verruca's, athlete's foot, flat feet, bunions, heel pain, ageing feet, blisters, gout, sports injuries.

Dr. Griffin bills insurance or you can pay her $50 directly via cash, check or card. She does not accept BCBS Advantage (Blue Care Network), Medicare + PPO or Humana Medicare.

Please collect your paperwork and have it completed before your appointment. Paperwork can be found at the front desk. Call the center to register for your 15-minute appointment at (269) 329-4555.

AARP Driver Safety

Monday, September 29, Tuesday, September 30 (2 session class)

9 AM – 1 PM

$20 for AARP Members / $25 for Non-AARP Members

The 2-day course teaches proven driving techniques to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. Participants will learn:

Important facts about the effects of medication on driving.
How to reduce driver distractions.
How to maintain the proper following distance behind another car.
Proper use of safety belts, airbags, anti-lock brakes, and new technology found in cars today.
Techniques for handling left turns, right-of-way, and roundabouts.
Age-related physical changes and how to adjust your driving to compensate.

Participants will pay the AARP instructor directly on the first day of class. Acceptable forms of payment include cash or check. No credit cards will be accepted. Spots are limited, please register by calling (269) 329-4555.

Birds of the World

Tuesday, September 30

2 – 4 PM

$3 Members / $5 Non-Members

Presented by: Randy Schau

With over 11,000 bird species on Earth, only about 10% live in North America. This class will take flight with the other 90%—featuring fascinating birds from every corner of the globe. From the curious Caracara and prehistoric-looking Hoatzin to the elusive Potoo, charming chaffinches, majestic Australian Eagle, and more broadly, pelagic birds, owls, and cranes, we’ll explore their unique adaptations, behaviors, coloration, mating habits, and migration patterns. Expect engaging visuals, bird-themed comics, fun quizzes, and even three bird love stories! Note: Randy has previously taught two bird classes focused on North American species—this one is entirely new and global. Please call (269) 329-4555 to register.

Intro to Acrylic Painting

Tuesday, September 30

4 – 6 PM

$15 Members / $20 Non-Members

Instructed by: Kimberly Barrett

Curious about acrylic painting but don’t know where to start—or tried it before without success? This fun and informative crash course is the perfect way to dive in! Join art instructor Kimberly Barrett as she guides you through the basics of acrylic painting, including how to choose and mix colors, apply mediums and varnishes, and more. You’ll experiment with a variety of techniques to build confidence and understanding of this versatile medium. Whether you're looking to create your first masterpiece or just want a better feel for acrylics, this class will set you up for success. Registration required. Call (269) 329-4555 to sign up. The fee for this class is offset by the generosity of the Bhadra Shah Arts & Culture Fund.

Girlfriend Hour

Boo!ngo & Cake Walk

Thursday, October 2

3 – 4:30 PM

$5 Members

Get ready for a frightfully fun afternoon at our Boo!ngo & Cake Walk, an event filled with games, goodies, and plenty of Halloween spirit! We’ll start with several rounds of festive Bingo, complete with chances to win fun prizes. Then, we’ll wrap up our time together with our delicious Cake Walk, where everyone has the chance to take home a sweet treat.

Dress to Impress – Attendees are encouraged to come in costume or show off their best Halloween attire. Whether you’re spooky, silly, or somewhere in between, we want to see your Halloween flair!

Desserts Needed for the Cake Walk – To make this activity a success, we ask each participant to bring 4 individually-packaged desserts. These can be cakes, brownies, cookies, cupcakes, pies, or any other sweet creation. The more variety, the better—our Cake Walk is guaranteed to be a highlight!

This event is the perfect way to celebrate Halloween with friends, laughter, and just a little bit of competition. Don’t miss out on an evening that promises to be both spooktacular and sweet! To register, call (269) 329-4555.

Plant Identification

Friday, October 3

9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

$20 Members / $25 Non-Members

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of plant identification! Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, gardener, or simply curious about the greenery around you, this engaging, hands-on class will introduce you to the basics of recognizing and identifying a variety of plant species. You’ll learn key characteristics to look for, helpful tools and resources, and tips for observing plants in different environments.

This off-site class takes place at the KVCC Food Innovation Center. Minibus transportation will be provided. Class participants must meet in the PZSC cafe by 9:30 AM. The fee for this class is offset by the generosity of the Bhadra Shah Arts & Culture Fund. Please call (269) 329-4555 to register.

The Silent Epidemic:

Loneliness & Social Isolation in Aging

Monday, October 6

11 AM – 12:30 PM

Presented by: Dr. Julie Sorenson, DMFT, MA, LPC

Join us for a powerful and compassionate session exploring one of the most pressing—but often unspoken—challenges faced by older adults today: loneliness and social isolation. Led by Dr. Julie Sorenson, this presentation will examine how these experiences affect mental and physical health, especially as we age. You’ll learn practical strategies for navigating grief, rebuilding connections, and finding renewed purpose in community. Whether you're struggling yourself or supporting a loved one, this program offers hope, insight, and encouragement. To register, call (269) 329-4555.

Foot Consultations

October 7, 21

9 – 11 AM

FREE

Call to schedule your 15-minute appointment at (269) 329-4555

Dr. Deming will be present for foot care clinics on alternate weeks to offer personal consultation on your foot and ankle pain. The clinics will allow for evaluation and consultation with recommendations, advice and education to diagnose and address your concerns. Should you require further treatment, Dr. Deming can help facilitate follow up care and fast-track your treatment plan either at his personal clinic or elsewhere as required.

*Disclaimer -These clinics will not offer palliative nail and callus treatment. Dr. Deming can schedule or facilitate follow-up procedures for specific types of nail and callus concerns that he treats in his private clinic.

Harvest Luncheon

Friday, October 10

11:30 AM – 1 PM

$12 Members / $14 Non-Members

Celebrate the arrival of fall with a delightful luncheon that truly embodies the spirit of the season. Imagine a cozy and inviting get-together, with the table beautifully decorated with the treasures of autumn. It’s a wonderful opportunity to cherish the company of new and old friends in the comforting atmosphere of fall. For planning purposes, please RSVP at least a week before the luncheon by calling (269) 329-4555.

Menu:

Main Course - Creamy Herb Chicken
Sides - Vegetable Medley, Mashed Potatoes, Bread
Salad - Tossed Salad
Dessert – Cheesecake Bites

Hearing Screening

3rd Wednesday, October 15

9 AM – 12PM

FREE Call to schedule your 15-minute appointment at (269) 329-4555

Offered in partnership with Hearing Specialists of Kalamazoo

Dr. Jim Cole, a licensed audiologist from the Hearing Specialists of Kalamazoo, will be at the PZSC every third Wednesday of the month providing hearing screenings, examination of the ear canal and ear drum, hearing aid cleaning, checks & minor repairs, and hearing/ tinnitus/ hearing aid education; all at no charge.

Love in Action

3 Part Series

Wednesdays, 10 AM – 12 PM

October 15, 22 and 29

$20 Members/ $25 Non-Members

This course is designed to examine “Love in Action” as a transformative force in personal, relational, and societal contexts. Through an exploration of effective communication, compassion, empathy, and altruism, participants will investigate how love can be actively practiced and expressed to create meaningful impact. We will combine theoretical perspectives with practical applications, empowering you to better understand, experience and implement “Love in Action” as a powerful agent of change in your own life.

Functional Movement Screening and Presentation

Tuesday, October 21

1:30 – 2:30 PM

Free, Call to Register at 269-329-4555

Join us for a special event designed to help you move better, feel better, and stay active! You will learn valuable insights into your body’s movement patterns, balance and flexibility. Presented by the skilled team from Ivy Rehab, this session will highlight simple ways to reduce injury risk, improve mobility, and maintain your independence.

Participants will receive a brief one-on-one movement screening, along with practical tips to enhance their daily activity and overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to improve your exercise routine, recover from an injury, or simply stay strong for everyday life, this is an excellent opportunity to gain professional guidance free of charge.

PZSC Veterans Day Breakfast at the Air Zoo:

Veterans of All Ages Welcome!

Tuesday, November 11, 8-9 AM

Free for Veterans / $20 for Guests

This Event is Open to the Public

Join us at Air Zoo (6151 Portage Road, Portage 49002) as we honor and celebrate Veterans Day in a special way! We are delighted to continue our exciting partnership with the Air Zoo for a memorable Veterans Day breakfast event. Immerse yourself in a morning of unity, exclusive guests, and the opportunity to experience all the wonders the Air Zoo offers. After breakfast, take your time to explore the incredible exhibits and engage in meaningful conversations with fellow veterans. Reserve your spot now by calling (269) 329-4555. This event is open to veterans of all ages. Please note: There will be no Veterans Group Luncheon at the PZSC in November.

Travel Presentation with Ed & Ted’s Excellent Adventures

Friday, October 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM

Join us for an exciting morning as we unveil our 2026 Travel Lineup—filled with unforgettable destinations, scenic wonders, and fun-filled adventures! Whether you're dreaming of sunny beaches, vibrant cities, or cozy holiday getaways, there's something for everyone.

Save the Dates for These 2026 Adventures:

Feb 21–Mar 7: Florida Gulf Coast Vacation
Apr 16–19: Thunder Over Louisville, KY
May 11–16: Branson – All New for 2026!
Early June: Cape May, NJ – Beach Trip & Historic Victorian Homes
July 13–21: Up Over, Back & Down – Upper Peninsula/Great Lakes
August: Lakes, Lucy, Comedy & Cruises – Finger Lakes, NY
Sept 26–Oct 2: Lake Placid, NY & Vermont Fall Foliage Tour
Oct 19–23: Smoky Mountains, TN – Dollywood’s Pumpkin Luminights
Dec 1–6: Christmas at Graceland – Memphis, Nashville & Louisville
Dec 30–Jan 1, 2027: New Year’s Eve Celebration – Niagara Falls

Reserve your seat for the presentation now! Call 269-324-9239 to register. Come explore where 2026 will take you!

We’re excited to share some great news—all 2026 Ed & Ted’s Excellent Adventures trips are now open for sign-up!

Even better, Ed & Ted’s has launched a brand-new website to make the travel process easier than ever: https://edandteds.com

Here’s what’s new and helpful:

You can view and download trip flyers directly from the site.
Online registration and deposit payments are now available—no more paper forms needed (unless you prefer them!).
Travel protection is offered for every trip, with quick and secure purchase through Travel Insured.
There’s also a new section for pickup locations to help with organization.

IMPORTANT: When registering online, please make sure to select PZSC as your pickup location so that our center receives proper credit for your participation.

Payment Update: Going forward, all payments for Ed & Ted trips will be made payable to ETEA. This simplifies the process and helps everything run more smoothly.

Travel Presentation – Premier World Discovery

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

10 AM

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 2026. She will present 2026 highlights including Ecuador & Galapagos Islands, Arizona Spring Training, Athens & The Greek Islands, West Virginia Rails & Williamsburg, Utah’s Mighty National Parks, and Canadian Rockies & Glacier National Park. 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

11/09 Book of Mormon at Devos Grand Rapids, MI $135 M / $145 NM (Minibus)
11/12 Horrocks Farm Market & Clara’s on the River Battle Creek, MI $25 M / $30 NM (Minibus)
11/20 Chriskindl Mrkt & Tanger Outlets Grand Rapids, MI $20 M / $25 NM (Minibus)
12/03 Kellogg Manor Holiday Hickory Corners, MI $50 M / $60 NM Minibus
12/09 A Christmas Carol at the Blue Gate Shipshewana, IN $100 M / $110 NM (Minibus)
1/20 Chicago the Musical at Miller Kalamazoo, MI $80 M / $90 NM (Minibus)
1/28 Blue Man Group at Miller Kalamazoo, MI $70 M / $80 NM (Minibus)
7/23 Escape to Margaritaville at Cornwell’s Turkeyville Marshall, MI $75 M / $85 NM (Minibus)
7/26 The Great Gatsby at Devos Grand Rapids, MI $130 M / $140 NM (Minibus)

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