Here’s What Is Happening

June 6, 2024

2nd Annual Pickle Ball & Tournament

Friday, June 14 & Saturday, June 15, 2024

A Fundraiser for the Portage Zhang Senior Center

Registration Required

Calling all dinkers and bangers – and anyone who wants to have a great time while supporting the Friends of the Portage Senior Center. The fun begins with the Pickle Ball on Friday, June 14. Enjoy an evening of live music, dancing, hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, and the not-to-be-missed Silent Auction. The FUNdraising continues on Saturday, June 15 with the Pickleball Tournament at Ramona Park. It’s a fun, friendly event with two divisions for recreational and competitive players. Only $40 for both the Pickle Ball and Tournament. Ball-only tickets for Friday evening are $25. CLICK HERE for more information and to register.

Holiday Closures:

The PZSC will be closed for all activities on the following date:

Juneteenth – Wednesday, June 19

Newsletter Corrections:

• The Exploring Grief through Books and Movies starting July 1st should reflect 2 – 3 PM. The newsletter says 11 AM - 12 PM.

Schedule Change!

Singles Night Out Dinner Club

Saturday, June 8, 2024 (Originally scheduled for Friday, June 7)

05:30 PM - 09:00 PM

Eating for a Healthy Life

June 7, 14, 21, 28

10 AM – 12 PM

Free- Call to Register at (269) 329-4555

Learn how to become proactive with your diet! This 4-session series will explore topics including our toxic world and food as medicine. We will ask ourselves questions like what should I eat, and why does it matter? Discover how easy it can be to prepare wholesome meals that nourish your body. Arm yourself with information for healthy aging and optimal wellness. 

Amazing Tales            

Tuesday, June 11 

2 - 3:30pm 

$3 Members / $5 Non-Members 

Presented by: Steve Ellis

Spark Magazine publisher Steve Ellis, has spent the last 25 years, accumulating over 500 odd and unusual stories from around the area. Here are just a few: Cow produces of 19,000 pounds of milk, Goat locked in jail for butting parked cars, Man arrested 119 times, Bears escape from Milham Park, Burglars ransack home-steal 83 cents, Boy’s bicycles gobbled up by street sweeper, Senior couple hitchhike to California and back, Bird flies from Ft Wayne to Kalamazoo in 3 hours and Police pull over car with chickens in trunk. To register, please call (269) 329-4555. 

OLLI Senior Readers Theatre             

Wednesday, June 12 

2 – 3:30 PM 

FREE

Come see a performance by the members of OLLI at WMU Senior Readers Theater.  OLLI at WMU is short for Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Western Michigan University, for people 50 years and older, where age is embraced, and wisdom is celebrated.  Our plays address both the humorous and dramatic aspects of what it means to grow older. The talented ensemble strives to bring laughter and thought-provoking moments to the stage to remind everyone that, in the tapestry of life, none of us is alone. Join us as we explore the challenges and camaraderie that come with age, weaving tales that not only entertain but also unite us in the understanding that our stories are intertwined. OLLI at WMU Senior Readers Theater celebrates life's ongoing narrative, written and performed by those who know that the best acts are yet to come. You do not need to be an OLLI member to register for this program. Please call (269) 329-4555 to register.  

Fun Walks

Wednesday, June 19

2 – 3 PM

Free- Call to Register at (269) 329-4555

Join us and other PZSC members for a fun walk through Portage. Plan to meet at Schrier Park, located at 850 West Osterhout Avenue. There is a 1.1 mile paved path leading to looped trails taking you to Bishop’s Bog if you’re interested in extending your walk, but anyone is welcome to turn back anytime. The walk will begin at 2:15 PM. Be sure to wear comfortable and sturdy closed-toed shoes and dress in layers for the weather. Restrooms are available at the trail head. 

Concerts in the Courtyard - The Iconix         

Thursday, June 20th  

4 – 6 PM 

$10 and Open to the Public  

The Iconix is a dynamic 6-piece band that breathes new life into classic iconic hits, from Motown and R&B to yacht rock and pop.  Their setlist features favorite hits from legendary artists, bridging the gap between generations and ensuring a night of pure musical enjoyment. This talented ensemble boasts a lineup of seasoned musicians, well-known throughout West Michigan, each with a deep connection to the songs they perform. The Iconix’s commitment to capturing the essence of each song keeps audiences singing and dancing along.  

Cash bar and bottled water available. Registration is required by calling (269) 329-4555. *Attendees are encouraged to bring their own bag chair as PZSC seating is limited, and sun protection. 

Peace, Justice, Care of the Earth

Tuesday, June 25 

2 – 4 PM 

$3 Member / $5 Non-Member  

Presented by: Robert Weir  

Join us as Robert Weir, author, writer, and editor, presents “Peace, Justice, Care of Earth” which honors the life of John McConnell, the founder of the original Earth Day on the Spring Equinox and his core belief that “peace through understanding,” and “social justice as an equitable sharing of resources by all people” are prerequisites – not yet implemented – that are necessary before we will begin to take care of Planet Earth. To register, please call (269) 329-4555.

ONLY 4 SPACES REMAINING!

Baking with Crème - June Chocolate Pear Tart 

Thursday, June 27 

1 – 3 PM  

$20 Members / $25 Non-Members  

Instructed by: Meg Mattison   

Join us as baking extraordinaire, Meg Mattison helps teach attendees how to develop new culinary skills and techniques. Attendees will enjoy assisting throughout the class, as well as getting to eat their finished product! Spots are limited and registration is required.  

In this class you will learn how to make from scratch a puff pastry dough; in addition to the beauty of crafting rich chocolate, almond flour, succulent pear slices, and creme fraiche into a decadent tart.  Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of the pears balancing the intense richness of the chocolate.  This elegant dessert is not only visually stunning but also a delightful symphony for the taste buds, making it the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion. To register, please call (269) 329-4555. 

Once Upon a Midsummer Night’s Dance      

Thursday, July 11 

6 – 8 PM 

$20 Members / $25 Non-Members  

Get excited for an incredible summer evening brimming with joy and dancing at our upcoming event. Dress to impress and bring a date, a friend, or come solo to groove under the shimmering "Summer Stars." Indulge in delicious appetizers and a choice of non-alcoholic beverages. DJ Hurricane will be spinning tunes to keep the vibe electric. A cash bar will also be at your service. Remember to secure your spot by registering in advance. For registration or any inquiries, feel free to call (269) 329-4555. We can't wait to share this magical night with you! 

Special Luncheon - Summer Lunch ”Out” with Blue Plate Food Truck  

Thursday, July 18 

2 – 4 PM  

$15 – Includes lunch and entertainment    

Get ready for an unforgettable summer luncheon experience! You're invited to join us at the PZSC for a fabulous food truck luncheon held in the gorgeous courtyard, complete with special entertainment by the amazing group "The Hoot Owls." It's the perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Don't miss out – secure your spot by registering and pre-paying today. Your ticket includes a trip to the food truck, non-alcoholic drinks, live entertainment, and access to the cash bar. Hurry and RSVP now by calling (269) 329-4555 to ensure you don't miss out on this fantastic event! 

Travel Presentation – Premier World Discovery

Thursday, June 27, 2024  

3-5 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 2024 & 2025. To finish out 2024 Tracey will be presenting details on Great Trains & Grand Canyons, Music Cities Christmas, and New Orleans Holiday.  She will also showcase the beginning of 2025 with Colorful Costa Rica, Puerto Vallarta, Sunny San Diego, England, Scotland, & Wales, and National Parks & Canyons of the Southwest! 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 Presentation – Collette

Thursday, September 5, 2024  

3-5 PM  

Registration Requested  

Register for an in-person presentation with Ed Mckenna of Collette at the PZSC. Join us to learn about the fun and exciting trips offered through Collette for 2025. Ed will be presenting details on Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights, South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana, and France Magnifique!  Spots are limited. Call 269-324-9239 to register. 

Travel With the PZSC!

Bi-Weekly Highlights

• 6/12 Shipshewana Flea Market, Shipshewana, IN $25 M / $35 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
• 7/9 Southwest Michigan’s Underground Railroad, Vandalia & Schoolcraft, MI $55 M / $65 NM (Minibus)- Spots Available
• 7/16 Local Treasures, Kalamazoo, MI $35 M / $45 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
• 7/18 Fish Boil & More, Shelby, MI $170 M / $180 NM - Spots Available 
• 8/14 What Springs Forth at Purple Rose Theatre, Chelsea, MI $140 M / $150 NM Spots Available
• 8/28 Million Dollar Quartet at Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Saugatuck, MI $160 M / $170 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
• 9/10 Allegan County Fair, Allegan, MI $25 M / $30 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
• 9/18 Gilmore Car Museum-Wednesday Night Cruise-In, Hickory Corners, MI $20 M / $25 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
• 9/26 Pierce Cedar Creek (Plant Hunters Program, Five Senses Hike, The Fungus Among Us), Hastings, MI $70 M / $80 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
• 10/10 Arab-American Cultural Experience, Dearborn, MI $130 M / $140 NM Spots Available
• 11/08 The Piano Guys at Miller Auditorium, Kalamazoo, MI $90 M / $100 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
• 11/14 Dear Evan Hansen at Miller Auditorium, Kalamazoo, MI $90 M / $100 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
• 12/11 Mannheim Steamrollers Christmasat Miller Auditorium, Kalamazoo, MI $90 M / $100 NM (Minibus) Spots Available

  
  

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

Dining Out Group Seeking Volunteer Leader

It is with a heavy heart, we're seeking a new leader for our Dining Out Group following the passing of our beloved group leader, Shirley McKinney. If you're passionate about food and connecting with others, this role is perfect for you! You'll have the exciting responsibility of organizing our monthly breakfast, lunch, and dinner outings. If this sounds like your cup of tea, please reach out to Rob Perry, 269-329-4553. We can't wait to welcome our new leader!

Exciting PZSC Group Highlight – Needlers and Sewing for Others!

Let's shine a spotlight on two incredible groups within the PZSC community. While officially labeled as Social Interest Groups, their activities go way beyond just socializing – they are making a real difference!

The Needlers group is a vibrant community of knitting and crocheting enthusiasts who come together to spread joy through their craft. Some focus on personal projects, while others channel their skills into creating beautiful items like blankets, hats, mittens, scarves, and special pieces for individuals with Dementia, all of which are lovingly donated.

Sewing for Others is a heartwarming group that finds sheer delight in the art of sewing. This talented bunch meticulously crafts a variety of essential items, including walker and wheelchair bags, pillowcases, baby clothing, and cozy blankets for Bronson’s Car Seat Program, ensuring every newborn leaving Bronson Hospital is snug and secure.

Their impact extends far beyond their crafting circles, reaching hospitals, adult care facilities, family and children’s organizations, domestic assault shelters, and beyond.

The groups rely on generous donations of clean yarn, materials, and sewing notions to fuel their projects. If you're eager to support these wonderful initiatives or share your own creative talents, reach out to the PZSC at (269) 329-4555. Your involvement can make a world of difference!

Personal Property Storage

We want to make sure you have a hassle-free experience at the PZSC, so we kindly ask that you refrain from storing personal items at our facility. But don't worry; we've got you covered with convenient daily-use lockers for members. Feel free to use your own lock or grab one of our lending locks from the Administrative Suite near the east entrance. To borrow a lock, simply leave your car keys or ID, and we'll make sure to return them to you when you check back the key into the Administrative Suite. Thanks for understanding, and let us know if you have any questions!

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.