Here’s What Is Happening

April 23, 2025

Newsletter Corrections:

• Matter of Balance Dates: May 13 – June 10 (NO CLASS ON JUNE 6) The newsletter incorrectly lists the last day as June 13.

3 ways to Register for Programs and Classes at the PZSC 

1. MyActiveCenter (MAC) – Online Platform 
2. In person at the reception desk 
3. 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 last priority 

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

PZSC “Bits of Business” Expo

Friday, April 25 

9 AM – 1 PM 

Free and Open to Public

Join us for a fun and informative day filled with community resources that matter to you! Whether you're looking for help with home repairs, housing options, volunteer opportunities, caregiver support, financial tips, or Medicare solutions, we’ve got something for everyone — and so much more!

Plenty of Parking Available

You can park at:

• The PZSC
• Portage City Hall
• First Reformed Church
• Brown Street
• Currier Drive
• City of Portage Parks and Recreation

Need a Lift? We’ve Got You Covered!

Hop on the PZSC shuttle bus, which will be making regular stops at all parking areas to bring you to the event and back to your car — easy, convenient, and stress-free!

Mustang Monday Tech Support    

Monday, April 28 

3:15 - 4:45 PM  

Register for Time Slots  

In the time it takes to watch a television commercial, technology can leap ahead, leaving most of us in the dust. For those of us who watched an entire program, we need some help getting back on the technology track! Want to learn how to text? Can’t figure out how to download an app onto your tablet? Did you open something only to find it attached to your device like an electronic leech? There is help! Every other Monday, Technology can leap ahead in the time it takes to watch a television commercial, student volunteers from Portage Central High School (The “Mustangs”) will be available at the PZSC Café to assist you in becoming proficient with your electronic device. Please call (269) 329-4555 to register for your time slot. 

Vera Bradley Outlet Sale

Fort Wayne, IN 

Wednesday, April 30

$75 M / $85 NM 

Spots Available!

The Annual Outlet Sale is one of the most anticipated events of the year! Enjoy up to 70% off retail prices on Vera Bradley handbags, purses, totes, luggage, stationery, and accessories – all within a shopping experience spanning over 100,000 square feet of space. With incredible savings, a wide selection of top-quality products, and so much more, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Pretty Woman at Devos Performance Hall

Grand Rapids, MI 

Sunday, May 4

$125 M / $135 NM 

Spots Available! (Minibus)

Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award®-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell, an original score by Grammy® winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, and a book by the movie’s legendary director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J. F. Lawton. Pretty Women: The Musical will lift your spirits and light up your heart. Are you ready to fall in love all over again?

Residential Architecture in Kalamazoo   

Tuesday, April 29 

2 – 4 PM 

$3 Members / $5 Non-Members 

Presented by: Lynn Houghton

It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s an Italianate 

Lynn Houghton, the dynamic Regional History Curator at the WMU Archives and Regional History Collections, invites you on a captivating journey through Kalamazoo's past! As the co-author of "Kalamazoo Lost and Found" and a beloved contributor to Encore Magazine's "Five Favorites" series, Lynn brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her talks. With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history from WMU and another master’s in library and information science from Wayne State University, she is well-equipped to delve into the rich tapestry of local history.  

The history of a community can be found in many different places whether it be in a book, a program or online. It also can be found in the countless homes, buildings and other structures that dot the greater Kalamazoo community telling us much about our tastes and choices. From hidden gems to striking landmarks, you'll discover the unique character and history that make each area special. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Kalamazoo through Lynn’s passionate presentation—get ready to be inspired by the beauty and history that surrounds us! Please call (269) 329-4555 to register. 

PZSC Social Golf League

States Golf Course, 20 East W Ave, Vicksburg  

Thursdays, May 1- August 28 

Arrive 8:30 AM/Tee Off 9 AM 

PZSC One-Time League Fee: $15  

States Golf Course Fee: Senior Rate $23 (9 Holes with Cart) 

Group Leader: Alta Dekema 

The PZSC Social Golf League is exclusively for PZSC members. It is a mixed social golf league where you only pay for the days you play, and you never have to worry about finding a substitute player. Individuals can join the league anytime they want. If you don't have a foursome, we'll find one for you. The rate is at a senior discount and can be paid to the States Golf Course every day you play. The league fees must be paid to the PZSC Reception Desk. 

Downsizing: Remove Stress by Decluttering  

Wednesdays, May 7, 21 

12 – 1:30 PM  

$15 Members / $20 Non-Members  

Instructed by: Darlene Reitz, The Clutter Buster

Are you ready to transform your living space and reduce stress? Join us as Darlene Reitz “The Clutter Buster,” instructs this dynamic 2-session class/workshop designed to provide you with practical tools and innovative ideas to declutter your home! Discover how each small step can motivate you and lead to amazing results. Interact with fellow participants while learning unique strategies tailored to your needs, all in a supportive atmosphere! The cost includes both classes, making it a fantastic value for a clearer, calmer life. Don’t miss out—call (269) 329-4555 to register and start your journey to a stress-free home! 

The Phillips Brothers’ Orchestra: Black Musicians in the Origins of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra

Wednesday, May 7 

2 – 4 PM 

Free and Open to the Public – Must Register 

Presented by: Dr. Karika Parker, WMU Lewis Walker Institute and  

Liz Youker, KSO Vice President of Artistic Operations and Education

Unbeknownst to many, the Phillips Brothers’ Orchestra of Kalamazoo was a classical musical foundation for the current Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra. In this discussion-based course, we will delve into the historical and photographic record of the Black musical quartet, the Phillips Brothers, and other Kalamazoo-based Black musicians of that era, and shine a light on the role racism, exclusion and oppression played locally and nationally in the formation of today’s professional orchestras. We’ll learn how today’s Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra board, staff, and musicians, alongside orchestras across the US, are working to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion through research and relevance. Please call (269) 329-4555 to register for this wonderful presentation. 

Spring Fling Dance        

Thursday, May 15 

4 - 6 PM 

$12 Members / Non-Members  

Join us for our vibrant Spring Fling Dance Party, where the spirit of the season comes alive! Set against a backdrop of blooming flowers and twinkling lights, this enchanting evening will be filled with joy and excitement. Get ready to dance the night away to the latest hits and classic favorites, all spun by our talented DJ. Dress in your favorite spring colors and let your creativity shine—floral patterns, pastel shades, or anything that embodies the essence of spring!  Whether you’re there to bust a move or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, the Spring Fling is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather and connect with others. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night! Light snacks, pizza, and water included with ticket. Pop available for purchase. Cash bar available. Please call (269) 329-4555 to register. 

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!  

Friends of the Portage Senior Center

29th Annual Golf Outing, Monday, May 19  

Register soon... spots going fast!

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. 

PZSC Travel Committee Needs You!

Volunteer Opportunity for Members

Love to travel? Want to help plan unforgettable adventures for our members? The PZSC Travel Committee is looking to fill two volunteer positions!

As a committee member, you'll assist Travel Manager Janelle Pound in creating fun, safe, and exciting group travel experiences for our community.

Requirements:

• Must be a current PZSC member in good standing
• Have a passion for travel and organization
• Willing to collaborate and contribute ideas

Interested?

Please see Travel Manager Janelle Pound for a full volunteer description and application form.

Help us make the journey just as great as the destination!

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 Presentation – Collette

Monday, May 19, 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 2026. Jerard will present details on some of Collette’s amazing 2026 travel opportunities! Spots are limited. Call 269-324-9239 to register.

Travel With the PZSC!

Bi-Weekly Highlights

• 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
• 07/10 Lovely Lavender and Seasonal Fruit Mattawan/Paw Paw, MI $20 M / $25 NM (Minibus)
• 07/16 Wonder & Wander Summer Mystery $85 M $95 NM
• 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
• 08/27 Star of Saugatuck and Waitress at Mason Street Theatre, Saugatuck, MI $135 M / $145 NM
• 09/21 Detroit Tigers vs Atlanta Braves at Comerica Park Detroit, MI $100 M / $110 NM Spots Available
• 09/25 Essenhaus Classic Car Cruise-In Middlebury, IN $40 M / $50 NM
• 9/29 Chicago Gangster Tour and Architecture River Boat Tour Chicago, IL $145 M / $155 NM

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

REGISTER YOUR CAR TODAY!!!

PZSC Cars & Cocktails Fundraiser Car Show

Friday, May 30 

4 – 7 PM  

FREE and Open to the Public    

Donation Entry Fee – All proceeds benefit PZSC Veteran’s Group  

Interested in showcasing your vehicle? You can register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/952845164537?aff=oddtdtcreator or contact Nicole at (269) 548-4052. Don’t miss out on a fantastic night of cars, cocktails, and camaraderie—come support our veterans and have a blast!