Senior Center in Sunshine
Senior Center Logo

Here’s What Is Happening

December 5, 2024


biggest giver food drive

PZSC Aiming to be the "Biggest Giver"!!

Looking for a great cause to support? Look no further! This is the City of Portage's 11th year partnering with the Portage Community Center for the "Biggest Giver Food Drive." Join us in a friendly competition between city facilities to see which group will be the most generous. Two years ago, the PZSC earned the 2022 Biggest Giver Award. Last year we came in second place! Help the PZSC staff earn back our title as the Biggest Giver! Between now and December 10, drop off non-perishable food donations and personal care products to benefit Portage residents in need. Items can be left in the designated areas at each entrance of the Senior Center.

Chair Yoga Class Cancelled – December 6

We want to let you know that Chair Yoga, originally scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, December 6, from 2 – 3 PM, has been cancelled.  

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (269) 329-4555.  

Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you at your next class! 

Notice to Priority Health Medicare Advantage Plan Members 

Please note: This ONLY applies to individuals currently using Priority Health.

If you have Priority Health as your Medicare Advantage plan provider, you will be transitioning from Silver Sneakers to One Pass beginning January 1, 2025. 

We have received a number of inquires from impacted members regarding the transition. Please be assured that the PZSC will be in network through your One Pass fitness offering and there will be no lapse in access. In the meantime your current fitness benefit is still active.

Beginning January 1, 2025, please visit the PZSC Reception Desk with your One Pass code so that we can update our records. Codes will begin with A followed by 9 numbers. Members can obtain their new member code by logging into your One Pass member website or calling the Customer Service number listed on your insurance card.

A Festive Tradition Returns: 

Holiday Greens Sale at the Senior Center! 

We’re excited to share that the 71st Annual Holiday Greens Sale, hosted by the Kalamazoo Garden Council (KGC), is taking place this weekend at the Portage Zhang Senior Center! While this isn’t a senior center-hosted event, it’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a longstanding community tradition.  

🗓️ Dates and Times:  

- Friday: 10 AM – 6 PM

- Saturday: 9 AM – 3 PM  

The event, which serves as a fundraiser, features nine participating Garden Clubs and offers a wide variety of hand-made floral arrangements and decorative items perfect for your home or holiday gifting. Talented floral arrangers will create:  

🌟 Holiday table and porch arrangements  

🌟 Decorated wreaths  

🌟 Other beautiful seasonal decorations  

Proceeds from the Holiday Greens Sale support the KGC’s charitable, environmental, and educational efforts, advancing the art of gardening, landscape design, and horticulture throughout the community.  

Stop by to shop for festive décor and support a great cause! For more information, visit the Kalamazoo Garden Council’s website or social media pages.  

newsletter cover

November-December Newsletter Available!

Click HERE to access a digital version or pick up a copy at the PZSC today! Please note the following corrections:

  • The Rock the Pot date and time are correct, but the day is incorrect. It is listed as being on a Thursday and it should be a Tuesday. 
  • Bingocize will be held on Mondays and Thursdays starting January 6, and will run through March13. The newsletter incorrectly shows it as Tuesdays and Thursdays. Registration will open on December 16. 
myactivecenter logo

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!

Clean dry shoes requested

As the winter weather moves in, please help us keep our floors clean and dry. Do not walk into the Fitness Room or a Fitness Class without changing your shoes first. Please change your shoes outside the room before walking in. The locker room is located on the main floor. Otherwise, there are also seated areas upstairs outside the fitness room where you can change shoes.

Fitness Registration opens on Monday, December 16 at 8 AM for PZSC Members

You can preview the schedule by visiting our website HERE.

Herbal Remedies for Skin & Hair

Tuesday, December 10 

OR 

Friday, December 13

$10 Members / $15 Non-Members

Instructor: Melissa Stout

As we age, our hair and skin change. In this workshop, we will discuss ways to support this natural change and make homemade coffee oil for skin and hair. To register, please call (269) 329-4555. 

watercolor paint brushes

Intro to Watercolor      

Tuesday, December 10 

4 – 5:30 PM  

$20 Members / $25 Non-members   

Instructed by: Sarah Nott    

Join our Introduction to Watercolor class, designed for beginners eager to explore the beautiful world of watercolor painting. In this class, you'll learn fundamental techniques, and experiment with colors. It’s a relaxed, welcoming space to start your watercolor journey. No prior experience required—just bring your enthusiasm! Cost includes the use of all supplies and instruction. To register, please call (269) 329-4555.  

santa singing karaoke

Christmas Karaoke         

Wednesday, December 11 

4 – 6 PM 

$10 Open to the Public  

Get ready to light up the holiday season with a jolly dose of cheer at our Christmas Karaoke Night! Sing your heart out to your favorite holiday classics or modern hits in a cozy, cheerful setting. Whether you're a karaoke champion or just there for the fun, it's the perfect way to spread holiday cheer. Enjoy drinks, great company, and a night filled with laughter and songs. Don your festive wear and let's create joyful memories to last a lifetime! *Participants are not required to sing Christmas carols. Water and cookies provided. Pop and cash bar are available for purchase. Please call (269) 329-4555 to register. 

mug of hot chocolate

Zen & Zest: Christmas Spirits

Monday, December 16

1 – 2 PM

$10 Members / $15 Non-Members 

Instructor: Melissa Stout

Join us for a delightful blend of relaxation and refreshment at this yoga Christmas spirits class! Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a curious beginner, this class is open for all levels, and no prior experience is necessary. The price includes a one-hour yoga session and one peppermint schnapps and Baileys with cocoa/ coffee drink. A cash bar is available if you wish to purchase more. Join us and raise a glass to your well-being! To register, please call (269) 329-4555.

people wearing ugly holiday sweaters

Ugly Holiday Sweater Dance Party     

Tuesday, December 17 

 5 – 7 PM 

$15 Member / Non-member 

Open to the Public  

Dive into the festive spirit with our Ugly Holiday Sweater Party! It's the season to dig out your most hilariously hideous holiday sweaters and hit the dance floor in an array of colors and patterns as DJ Hurricane spins the tunes. Join us for a night where fashion faux pas are not only accepted but celebrated. It's the perfect occasion to raid your closet for the most outrageous and gaudily adorned sweaters/attire. Bring your holiday cheer and get ready for a wonderful time with dancing, laughs, drinks, and fun! Light appetizers, pop, water, and a cash bar provided. Call (269) 329-4555 to register.   

Fun Walks

Wednesday, December 18 

10 AM – 12 PM

Free- Call to register at 268-329-4555

Join us and other PZSC members for a fun walk through Portage. Plan to meet at Schrier Park, located at 850 West Osterhout Avenue. A 1.1-mile paved path leads to looped trails, taking you to Bishop’s Bog if you’re interested in extending your walk, but anyone is welcome to turn back at any time. Gather at 10 AM, and the walk will begin at 10:15 AM. Restrooms are available at the trail head. Please remember to dress in layers appropriate for the weather, wear sturdy and comfortable walking shoes, and bring hydration. See you there!

storypoint logo

New Member Meet & Eat  

Friday, December 20   

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! 

Travel Presentation – Premier World Discovery

Thursday, February 6, 2025  

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 2025.  She will be presenting highlights of National Parks & Canyons of the Southwest, Yellowstone & the Wild West, 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 Presentation – Collette

Tuesday, February 25, 2025  

1:30-3:30 PM  

Registration Requested  

Register for an in-person presentation with Jerard Welch of Collette at the PZSC. Join us to learn about the fun and exciting trips offered through Collette for 2025. Jerard will be presenting details on France Magnifique & Discover Spotlight on New York City Holiday! Spots are limited. Call 269-324-9239 to register. 

Travel With the PZSC!

Bi-Weekly Highlights

  • 12/10 Fire Keepers Casino & The Midtown Men- Holiday Hits Show Battle Creek, MI 40 M / $45 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
  • 2/2 Moulin Rouge! At Devos Performance Hall Grand Rapids, MI $125 M / $135 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
  • 2/9 Disney’s The Lion King at Miller Auditorium Kalamazoo, MI $115 M / $125 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
  • 3/9 Clue at Devos Performance Hall Grand Rapids, MI $125 M / $135 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
  • 3/12 Four Winds Casino New Buffalo, MI $50 M / $60 NM Spots Available
  • 4/2 Hadestown at Miller Auditorium Kalamazoo, MI $90 M / $100 NM (Minibus) Spots Available 
  • 4/6 The Neil Diamond Musical: A Beautiful Noise at Devos Performance Hall Grand Rapids, MI $125 M / $135 NM (Minibus) Spots Available
  • 4/11 50 States in an RV- A Musical Comedy Shipshewana, MI $130 M / $140 NM Spots Available

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

Reminder about PZSC Hours

The Portage Zhang Senior Center is open with the following schedule:  

  • Monday     8 AM – 5 PM  
  • Tuesday     7 AM – 7:30 PM*  
  • Wednesday    7 AM – 7:30 PM*  
  • Thursday     7 AM – 7:30 PM*  
  • Friday     8 AM – 5 PM  
  • Saturday     CLOSED 
  • Sunday     2 PM – 5 PM*  

*Access Alert*

November 1 – April 1, 5 – 7:30 PM  

Access will be restricted to the EAST entrance only on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings between 5 – 7:30 PM. There may be instances where rentals or special programming necessitate the availability of both entrances during extended hours. 

Update to Fitness Class Drop-In Policy

We have updated our policy for drop-in registrations for fitness classes due to our ongoing expansion. Starting October 1, all drop-in registrations must be made on the same day as the class. This change will help us manage class size and attendance more effectively and ensure we have enough equipment and seating for everyone. The drop-in fee will now be a flat rate of $10 for both members and non-members. These adjustments reflect our commitment to providing a consistent and valuable fitness experience. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in creating a positive and organized fitness environment.

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.

Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share via Email

All content © Portage, MI and its representatives. All rights reserved.
203 East Centre Avenue

Powered by
CivicSend - A product of CivicPlus