friends of the portage senior center brings holiday … of the portage senior center brings holiday...

City of Portage Senior Citizen Services, 320 Library Lane, Portage, MI 49002 • Phone 269-329-4555Website www.portagemi.gov/Departments/SeniorCitizenServices.aspx; e-mail: [email protected]

Open Monday-Friday 8 AM to 5 PM

Oct/Nov 2013

Annual Holiday Bake Sale &Bazaar, Featuring FriendsSoup Café Saturday, November 29 AM-3 PM Warm and woolly hand-crafted mit-tens, wonderful seasonal crafts,scrumptious bake goods and the invit-ing aroma homemade soups willdelight members and guests whoattend this fun seasonal event.Interested members who are crafterscan purchase a table for only twodonated homemade baked goods andone craft items. Non-membercrafters can reserve a table for two

baked goods, a craft item, and a $15donation to the Friends. Booth spacecan be reserved by contacting thePortage Senior Center at 269-329-4555, or seeing the receptionist.Booth space is limited to one table pervendor. All proceeds from the eventsupport the Portage Senior Centerprograms and services. Generaladmission is free and does notrequire advance registration.

Buy a “Fur”—A Fir Tree, That Is! Friends Joins Beacon Club’sFestival of Trees Charity EventPortage Senior Center members andcommunity supporters will have aunique opportunity be the first con-tributors toward a collective bid on abeautifully decorated tree to beplaced in our newly decorated lobby.The Friends of the Portage SeniorCenter joins eight other non-profitsthis year in having a decoratedChristmas tree at the Second AnnualBeacon Club Festival of Trees to beheld Saturday, November 30, from 5-8 PM. The Friends is honored to joinBig Brothers Big Sisters, BinderPark Zoo, Comstock CommunityLearning Center, Fresh Fire AMEChurchYouth Group, KalamazooGospel Mission, Southern ShoreField Service Council, Boy Scouts of

America and West Michigan GlassArt Center for this festive event.

If the luxurious feel of an authenticfur is out of your realm of ethics – orprice range, we invite you to take anactive part in keeping our fir tree onsite for all members to enjoy! Bydonating toward the purchase of ourtree, you are expressing your holidayspirit while directly benefitting theservices and programs at the PSC.The tree will be on display in thefront lobby in early November. Winor lose, your gift counts!

Deputy Director.........................2

Groups, Activities ......................3

Classes ...................................... 7

Health ......................................13

Volunteer..................................14

Travel .......................................17

Contents...

Friends of the Portage Senior Center Brings HolidaySparkle to Seasonal Events

Oct/Nov 2013A Message From Your Deputy Director & More

Have you considered leaving a legacy gift to the PSC in your will? Please call 329-4555 for more information.

Larry M. Smith, Chair

Ruth MichelhaughVice Chair

Mary Maisto, Secretary

Patricia Berninger

James Hoppe

Monifa Jumanne

Ruth Ann Meyer

Ann Perkins

Mary Lou Petrulio

Trudy Riker

Arthur Roberts

Kyle HuittYouth Participant

Advisory Board

Center StaffDirector of Parks

& RecreationWilliam Deming, MS

Deputy DirectorJill Hess, LCSW, ACSW

Administrative Asst.Janet Gates

Program CoordinatorDenita Demler

Trip CoordinatorJohanna Thompson

ReceptionistsMegan DonahueAllison Alexander

WMU InternAshley Machacek

Message From the Deputy Director

Portage Senior CenterThe PSC is supported by the City of Portage, contributions, memberships and grants. Somefunding is also received from the State of Michigan through the Area Agency on Aging. ThePSC offers services and activities to persons over 50 years of age. Annual membership feesare $25 for Portage residents and $35 for all others. No one will be denied membership dueto an inability to pay. The PSC Newsletter is mailed bi-monthly to members.

Dear Members,A membership and operation the size ofthe PSC would not be possible without thegenerous donation of helping hands andhearts—our member volunteers. Fromthose who formally have signed up toserve on specific boards and programs, tothose who have led informal groups andactivities over the years. All of you deserveour appreciation and equally important,additional resources and support toaccomplish your important work. On Thursday, October 24, 2013, 1:30-3:30 PM, we extend an invitation to allnew PSC volunteers and seasoned vet-erans to attend a volunteer orientationthat will continue on a quarterly basis.We hope this will launch a formal oppor-tunity for ongoing volunteer training andaccomplish the following: Imparting knowledge. New volunteerswill have the opportunity to learn moreabout the PSC and its mission and goals,and seasoned volunteers would always bewelcome to receive new information, meetnew volunteers or receive training on spe-cific topics. Also, by explaining importantinformation from the start, we hope toavoid the potential for any misconceptionsor misunderstandings. Increasing confidence. An orientationprogram invites new and future volun-

teers to feel more comfortable and confi-dent in their work, to better understandwhat the PSC is all about and the value heor she provides to the organization.Ongoing training will provide specifictools for volunteers who are engaged withspecial projects or group leadership roles. Increasing enthusiasm! Having a wellplanned and meaningful volunteer orien-tation and training program is an impor-tant part of recognizing new volunteers asVIP’s and sustaining the momentumand enthusiasm of current volunteers whodonate their precious time and talents. And finally, whether you are a potential,new, or experienced volunteer, your inputand feedback are vital to make the endeav-or successful. We look forward to seeingyou there!Of course, there will be food. Did I men-tion that important item?

All the best to you,

Jill HessDeputy Director of Recreationand Senior Citizen Services

The Portage Historic District Commission(PHDC) has launched its foremost activityto commemorate the city’s 50th anniver-sary. The PHDC Trading Cards are aseries of nine hand-held cards, each high-lighting a select property from the 40existing historic sites in Portage.Springing from the National Trust forHistoric Preservation’s 2013 theme “See!Save! Celebrate!” the goal is to shine aspotlight on Portage’s distinct historic

places through encouraging visitors andresidents to see these places, work to savethem for future generations, and celebratetheir vital role in the community. Thecards are available at Portage City hall,Portage Senior Center, TMPArchitecture offices at 470 W. CentreAvenue, and the offices of local architectNelson Nave at 100 Edwards Street indowntown Kalamazoo. Cards can be pur-chased at the PSC receptionist desk.

Get Your Portage Historic Commission 50th Trading cards at PSC!

Oct/Nov 2013 Clubs, Activities & Programs


Final Resting Places of the PresidentsMonday, October 28, 1:30 PMFee: FreeEnjoy this unique tour of America and learn the intrigu-ing, often untold stories behind our presidents’ final daysand resting places. Refreshments provided by LangelandFamily Funeral Homes. Registration deadline is Friday,October 25.

Cooking DemonstrationHealthy Fall SoupsMonday, October 7, 1:30 - 3:30 PMFee: $1 Members, $5 non-membersSponsor: TenderCare PortageCome and join Head Chef Roger from TenderCarePortage for an afternoon cooking demonstration ofhealthy fall soups, including recipe sharing and taste test-ing. Registration deadline is Thursday, October 3, and islimited to the first 25 paid registrants.

Big Screen MoviesMonday, October 14, 1:15 PM“Where There’s a Will”Failed con man Richie Greene’s luck is about to run outwhen he can’t repay loan shark Paulie. But Richie standsto inherit a small fortune from his estranged grandmoth-er, Clyde, if he travels to Harmony, Texas, to live withher. It sounds too good to be true: He’ll have a hideoutfrom Paulie, a decent scam, and a nice inheritance. WhatRichie finds instead is a soft spot in his heart for the lit-tle town and unconditional love from his only living rela-tive. Frank Whaley plays Richie, Marion Ross isGrandma, and Dan Riordan is the ill-tempered Paulie.Keith Carradine is the small-town sheriff who keeps tabson Richie while protecting Grandma. Not rated. Notclosed-captioned. 84 minutes. View the movie for free; 50cents for popcorn.

Welcome Allison Alexander!PSC Has a New Afternoon Receptionist It’s true that opportunity oftensneaks in a door you didn’t thinkwas open. With the recent closing ofthe City of Portage CulturalProgram, the PSC is lucky to haveformer Cultural Coordinator, AllisonAlexander, accept a new afternoonreceptionist position. Allison comesto the PSC with over eight years ofexperience in coordinating culturalprogramming with the City andbrings a strong background in customer relations and thearts. A perfect combination for everything we have goingon at the senior center. The next time you come into thePSC, please introduce yourself to Allison.

PSCMinibus willretire onOctober 1,its replace-ment willhit the road.Seepage 16for details.

Oct/Nov 2013Clubs, Activities & Programs


Big Screen MoviesMonday, November 11, 1:15 PM“Autumn Across America”Witness the beauty of autumn as seen through the lensof professional photographers Don and Fran Van Polen.The stunning landscapes and vibrant scenic views tell thestories of what life is like during this beautiful changingof seasons throughout the country. From the comfort ofour seats, we’ll travel to New England, Wisconsin,Kansas, Colorado, Iowa, and of course, Michigan, the VanPolens’ home state. The tour is set to the music of clas-sic songs such as “Seeing Nellie Home” and“Suppertime.” Narration will include poetry you mayhave memorized when you were a child! Don’t miss thisone; it’s spectacular. Not rated. Partially closed-captioned.70 minutes. View the movie for free; 50 cents for pop-corn.

Book Club2nd Monday, 10 AMThe Book Club meets on the 2nd Monday of the monthfrom 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Are you searching for thenext best book to read and discuss? The book to read forSeptember is: A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy andOctober’s book is: Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin.Check the PSC bulletin board for information on the bookof the month to read and discuss at the next meeting.Leader is Ann Perkins.

Art Club Monday, 1 - 3 PMThe PSC Art Club offers budding and accomplishedartists of all mediums the chance to get together once aweek and share their creativity with like minded individ-uals. There is no fee to participate. All you need to qual-ify for this club is a desire to create art and a valid PSCmembership!

ChoirLookin’ for SingersThursdays, 9:30 AMThe Portage Senior Center Choir is looking for men andwomen who enjoy singing. We meet Thursday morningsfrom 9:30-11:30 at the Senior Center. We don’t haveauditions and you don’t need to have a great voice. Here’swhat you do need: a love of singing and a smile (the lat-ter is a requirement). We perform at retirement commu-nities, PSC events and other community locations.Please come and join the fun!

French Club2nd Tuesday, 11 – 12 noonCome join us! Whether you are French, a French speak-er, or simply a lover of French culture, all are welcome toattend our monthly meetings. PSC member Sylvia Blumand her friend, Pamela Pender, are leading the Club.

Clubs, Activities & Programs Oct/Nov 2013


Dining Out Club An advance reservation with the reception desk by noonon the previous business day is required for this activity.All meals are self-pay. Hosts: Hal and Shirley Ray.

OctoberDinnerMonday, October 75:00 PMThe Crew (formerlyPerkins)3810 E. Cork St.Kalamazoo

BreakfastTuesday, October 88:30 AMKaps Kitchen10412 Portage Road

LunchThursday, October 1711:00 AMYogi’s2070 East VW Vicksburg(200 yds East of Ford

Dealership)

NovemberDinnerMonday, November 45:00 PMMartell’s (formerly BlackSwan)3501 Greenleaf Blvd.Kalamazoo

BreakfastTuesday, November 128:30 AMMar-Jo’s West325 N. Grand St., Schoolcraft

LunchThursday, November 2111:00 AMMangia Pizza & Pasta

Company3112 So. 9th St., Kalamazoo(formerly Mi Ranchito)

Loaves and Fishes - PSC Bag Recycling ProgramWe collect paper and plastic grocery bags only the firstWednesday and Thursday of each month. The bags areused for the Grocery Pantry Program at KalamazooLoaves & Fishes. Help is needed in sorting of bags on the1st Friday of the month.

NeedlersThursdays, 9 AM – 12 NoonThe PSC Needlers are knitting, crocheting and donatingcompleted projects to various community agencies allthrough the year. One project begun at a hospital’srequest, is creating Bosom Buddies, which are knitted orcrocheted prosthetic breasts for mastectomy patients.When placed in a bra, the Bosom Buddy takes the shapeand feel of a real breast. It is lighter, more comfortableand less expensive than a silicone prosthetic breast. Youare welcome to join the Needlers every Thursday to takepart in a feeling of accomplishment and camaraderie.

Reader’s TheatreWednesdays, 2 PM (2nd & 4th)Do you enjoy drama and comedy? Do you like to act?Join this fun group that produces skits and readings andpresents them to area schools and churches. Participantsread their parts so memorizing isn't required. Babs Smithleads the group which meets twice monthly on the secondand fourth Wednesdays. If interested, come join them tolearn more!

Partners and Pen Pals Program UnderwayImportant Dates to RememberPartners Program - This program creates friendships andstrengthens intergenerational connections between sen-ior volunteers and fourth grade students from the class-room of Sheila Clothier at Portage Central ElementarySchool. To accomplish this, seniors and their partnerswill complete activities in the classroom once a month.Senior Partners are to arrive at Portage CentralElementary School at 2 PM on October 8th, November12th, December 10, January 7, February 11, and March11. We will also be having a field trip on April 15 and theCelebration Potluck at Portage Senior Center on May 8thfrom 6:00-8:00pm.Pen Pals Program - This program will also creates oppor-tunities for building student’s writing skills, whi8le creat-ing meaningful connections between senior volunteersand the third grade students from the classroom ofRhonda VanderVeen at Angling Road Elementary. Toaccomplish this, students and seniors will exchange let-ters one time per month. Letters are due to PortageSenior Center by noon on October 17th, November 14th,December 19, January 30th, February 27th, March 27th,and May 1st. There is also a “Meet Your Pen Pal” Partyat Portage Senior Center on May 20th, from 2:30-3:30PM.

Clubs, Activities & Programs Oct/Nov 2013


Post-surgical rehab and skilled nursing

Joint Commission accredited

PSC Bike ClubWednesdays, 8:30 AMThe PSC Bike Club’s annual picnic was held atGourdneck Lake on September 12. The final scheduledrides are: October 2nd – Open for Destination; andOctober 9th – PSC to Vicksburg and back: 21 miles. Ifyou are around later this fall and weather cooperates,show up at the Center Wednesdays at 8:30 AM and organ-ize your own ride from your PSC Bike Club’s contact list.Thanks to the fine examples of safe and courteous bikeriding of our Leader Bob and participants throughoutthis season. Much appreciation goes to Bob Strader, ourgroup coordinator, who brought us all to “another level”with many memorable biking experiences this year.

PSC Golf League Finishes Up with Funand LaughterOver 25 PSC members participated in the 2013 SocialGolf League held at States Golf Course in Vicksburg. Weended the season with a scramble and lunch at thecourse. We would like to thank Nancy Jean and TrudyHarper for being the go between in taking the golf infor-mation to the course and returning the scores from thecourse to the Center. We are still looking for a leaguecoordinator for the 2014 season. If interested, please con-tact the Program Coordinator at the Center.

Recycled CardsTuesdays, 10:30 AMThe Recycled Cards group meets every Tuesday. Theyaccept whole greeting cards with the verses intact and donot accept or use Christmas cards. The cards are then cutapart and re-designed to create a “new” card. The cardsare for sale in the lobby.

New Member Orientation (NMO)Thursday, November 14, 10:30 AMThe NMO is a great way for new members to learn moreabout the services available at the PSC, as well as meetnew people. Let the receptionist know if you would like tomake a reservation for the lunch immediately followingthe presentation. Pre-register at 329-4555.

Red Hat SocietyThe Red Hat Kazoos of the Portage Senior Center is hav-ing another fun event. We will all meet for lunch at theOld Country Buffet on October 16 for lunch. Our themeis Celebrating Everyone’s Birthday. We will have gamesand White Elephant Birthday prizes as we play Bingo andother fun activities. Of course, we will have a wonderfullunch, too. No one will want to miss this event. If you arenot a Red Hatter yet, call Marie Tucker at 269-375-2104or email her at [email protected]. Get connectedwith a fun group. Other events are on the calendar.

Potlucks!The final PSC Potluck for the year will be held on Monday,October 21 at 5:30 PM. It is hosted by Potluck Coordinator,Barb VandeWerken. Participants are asked to bring theirown table service and a dish to pass (enough for at leastsix people). Pre-registration of $1 fee covers beverages andpaper products. Registration deadline is the Friday beforeevent.

Super Books – Fundraiser! We have just completed the Super Book Fundraiser and weare excited to announce that our profit from the sale was$800. This money goes towards operational funds for pro-grams and events here at the Senior Center. Thank you toeveryone who supported this fundraiser. The 2014 SuperBooks will be available after December 1.

Classes Oct/Nov 2013


All registration deadlinesare one week prior to dateof first class session,unless otherwise noted.All class schedules aresubject to change. All feesare listed as member/non-member, unless otherwisenoted.

Computer ClassesiPad DemonstrationTuesday, November 1210:00 AMPresenter: Larry SmithPSC MemberFee: FreeHaving trouble with yournew iPad? Thinking of get-ting an iPad? We are hereto help! This will be anintroduction to iPad navi-gation and general use.Main iPad applications andtools will be covered. Ourpresenter will provide sev-eral demonstrations andguidance. The Center hasan iPad that can bechecked out for use at PSC.Registration deadline isFriday, November 8.Laptop Introduction toOfficeWednesday, 10:00 AM –12:00 NoonAugust 21 – October 2

October 16 – December 4,No class November 27Fee: $20 (Members only)7 weeksInstructor: Royce BlandLaptop Introduction toOffice is a class designedfor those who have somebasic working knowledgebut would like to learnmore about how to utilizeMicrosoft Office softwarefor personal applications.Class will provide anoverview of InternetExplorer, Word, Excel,Access, PowerPoint, andPhoto Editing. Pleasenote: Students will need tobring a laptop computerand a one gigabyte flashdrive to each class, includ-ing the first class. Flashdrives will be used to savelesson plans and home-work.

Computer TutoringIndividual computer tutor-ing with or without laptopcomputer by an experi-enced volunteer is availableMon – Wed - Fri for a$5/hour fee. Your appoint-ment time focuses on what-ever aspect of computerusage you’d like to cover.

PSC Members only. Comein to register at the Center.Day/Time InstructorMonday Gordon10:00 AM - 12:00 NoonMonday Paul12:00 Noon - 1:00 PMWednesday Paul12:00 Noon - 1:00 PMFriday Gordon10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Art ClassesPainting with AcrylicsWednesday, 1 PM - 3 PMSeptember 18 – October 23Fee: $55/$65 (6 wks)Instructor: Rae SillsThis class is open to begin-ners as well as advancedstudents. The emphasis inthe class will not only belearning color, design andtexture, but also use of themediums in manipulation ofquick dry paint. Studentswill work from photographsof their own choosing. Raeis experienced in manymediums and will allow astudent to work in anothermedium upon request. (Nooils, please.) The supply listcan be picked up at thefront desk when registering.Registration deadline isWednesday, September 11.

Introduction to PortraitureWednesday, 1 PM – 3 PMNovember 6, 13, 20, 27Fee: $40/50 (4 wks)Instructor: Rae SillsThis class teaches the cor-rect approach to accuratedrawing. Therefore, it isthe perfect class for thebeginner and a goodrefresher for the moreexperienced student.Students will start with asimple framework and begiven tools that will easethem into the process. Raewill provide the photographfor the first two weeks, andthen students can use theirchoice of photographs. Themedium is pencil. The sup-ply list can be picked up atthe front desk when regis-tering. Registration dead-line is Wednesday, October30.

Exercise andOther Classes

AARP Driver Safety ClassThursday, November 79 AM – 4 PMFee: $12 AARP Members$14 Non-AARP MembersInstructor: Richard BakerUpdate your driving skills Classes continued on page 8

Classes Oct/Nov 2013


Classes, from page 7by learning how drivingresponses change as we ageand how to respond tothese changes. Note thatHartford, Auto Owner’s,and Farmer’s insurancecompanies give discountsto those who take thisclass. Check with yourauto insurer for specifics.Register at the PSC andmake checks payable toAARP Driver Safety Class.Class is limited to 12.

Body ReboundMonday/Wednesday/Friday,10:30 AM - 11:30 AMAugust 21 – October 18October 23 – December 11No class September 2

and 27Fee: $30/$40 (8 wks)Instructor: Helene ThompsonThis class is non-aerobicand designed for those whomay be just getting startedwith exercise. Get fit at apace that is comfortableand safe.

Enhance FitnessMonday/Wednesday/Friday,8:30 AM – 9:30 AMAugust 23 – October 21No class September 2 and 27October 28 – December 20Fee: $32/$42 (8 wks)Instructor: Deb SnellEvidenced based, national-ly recognized older adultfitness program that pro-motes increased endur-

ance, muscle tone, and self-esteem. Endorsed by theState of Michigan. Reminiscence WritingWednesday, 10:30 AM -12 PMFall Session 1 – September4, 11, 18, 25; October 2, 9, 16Fall Session 2 – October30, November 6, 13, 20, 27,December 4 and 11Fee: $30/$40 (7 wks)Instructor: Wilma KahnThe instructor has an MFAin creative writing and aFA in English. She giveswritten responses to classmember’s work. Writeabout reminiscences oldand new. Topics includeancestors, childhood, school-days, adulthood, militaryservice, career, children,grandchildren, pet peeves,travels, and current events— whatever we want towrite about. This classoffers a great opportunityto make new friends, shareyour writing, and learnfrom others.

QiGongWednesday, 7 PM – 8 PMAugust 28 – October 9October 16 – November 27Fee: $38/$48 (7 wks)Instructor: Ed KehoeIn this class you will learnAncient Five ElementQiGong routines that havebeen a part of TraditionalChinese Medicine for thou-

sands of years. These rou-tines are designed to buildand strengthen your inter-nal health, creating harmo-ny within yourself and withyour environment. SilverSneakers SplashTuesday & Thursday11 AM – 12 PMSeptember 10 – October 22October 29 – December 17Fee: $60 PSC members (7 wks)Location: Portage YMCA -2900 W. Centre Ave.This is an aquatics basedexercise program designedto help build strength andincrease range of move-ment. Since all exercisestake place in the pool, thewear and tear on yourjoints is minimal. Thisclass is the result of a spe-cial partnership betweenthe PSC and PortageYMCA. Partici-pants canregister at the YMCA, andwill need to present thisclass flyer or your My-

SeniorCenterTM card uponregistration. Strength & StretchMonday/Wednesday9:30 AM – 10:30 AMAugust 12 to October 2October 7 to November 20Fee: $38/$48 (7 wks)Instructor: Joy MorrisThis class is designed tohelp build strength andflexibility back into thebody. The class will beginwith strength building exer-cises using weights, fol-lowed with gentle stretchesto open the body so youwill leave class feelingstronger and more relaxed.Participants are asked tobring weights.T'ai JiTuesday, 8:30 AM - 9:30 AMSeptember 10 – October 22October 29 – December 10Fee: $38/$48 (7 wks) Instructor: Ed KehoeThe graceful movements of

Classes cont. on page 9

Classes and More Oct/Nov 2013


Classes, from page 8the Chinese art of T'ai Jidisguise a powerful systemof exercises that have longbeen recognized for theirtherapeutic qualities. Yoga Tuesday, 1 PM – 2:30 PMSeptember 3 – October 22October 29 – December 17Fee: $60/$70 (8 wks)Instructor: Christine PeckelsLocation: St Catherine’s ofSiena – Stanley CenterThis yoga class offers gen-tle yet powerful insight into

the infinite nuances of thebody, mind and breath withopportunities to exploreand link these qualitieswithin. Participants areasked to bring an exercisemat.Zumba GoldMonday, 5 PM – 6 PMAugust 26 – October 21October 28 – December 16Fee: $30/$40 (8 wks)Instructor: Gretchen PouliotZumba Fitness is a greatway to get in shape, con-nect with friends, and

relieve stress. It combinesenergizing music and cho-reography for a total bodyworkout. The goal is toprovide a safe and effectiveworkout, and to celebratethe joy of dance with oth-ers.

Partnership with WMULifelong Learning AcademyLess LawnFriday, 9 AM – 11 AMOctober 11 and 18Instructor: Christiene BartleyLocation: Portage Senior

CenterRegistration: 387-4200WMU Lifelong Learning

AcademyFees: $20 LifelongLearning Members/$30 Non-membersWhy and how to make youryard more ecologicallyresponsible is our topic.The first session will be atthe PSC and the secondwill be a field trip. You willfind ground covers beyondturf grass, creeping myrtleand plastic pachysandra.Can you do without fertiliz-ers, pesticides, wateringand lawnmowers? Nativeplants offer you beautifulopportunities to promotebiodiversity.

Partnership with WMULifelong Learning AcademySearching for Napoleon inAmerican Popular CultureFriday, 11 AM – 1 PMNovember 8 and 15

Instructor: Tom VanceLocation: Portage SeniorCenterRegistration: 387-4200WMU Lifelong Learning

AcademyFees: $20 LifelongLearning Members/$30 Non-membersThese sessions will beginwith an overview of the lifeof Napoleon Bonaparte andhis relevance to the UnitedStates, followed by a searchfor his impact and presencein this country. This reviewwill even include his pres-ence in Kalamazoo andMichigan.

Halloween LunchTuesday, October 2911:45 AM$1 registration fee When witches go riding, andblack cats are seen, the moonlaughs and whispers, ‘tisnear Halloween. ~ AuthorUnknown. Come on in tothe PSC to celebrateHalloween with your friendsand make new friends. Youmay wear a costume if youwish to bring out your innerchild. We will have prizesfor the best costume! Thisevent and entertainmentare sponsored by BickfordCottage. The meal is provid-ed through Senior Serviceswith a $3 donation at theevent. Registration deadlineis Friday, October 25.

Health and More Page 13Oct/Nov 2013


Chronic Pain PATHFriday, October 4 – November 86 weeks9:30 AM – 11:30 AMFee: Free, but donations are appreciatedChronic Pain PATH is a workshop given two and a halfhours, once a week, for six weeks, just as in regularPATH. Workshops are facilitated by two trained leaders. What will I learn?• Techniques to deal with problems such as frustration,

fatigue, isolation, and poor sleep • Gentle exercise for strength, flexibility, and endurance • Use of medications • Nutrition• Pacing activity and rest• Evaluating new treatmentsClasses are highly participative, where mutual supportand success build the participants’ confidence in theirability to manage their health and maintain active andfulfilling lives. Please register at 329-4555 by Friday,September 27.

Hearing Screenings3rd Tuesday – Quarterly (January, April, July,October)Tuesday, October 159:00 AM – 11:00 AMA certified audiologist from the Hearing Center will pro-vide the following services at no charge: hearing screen-ings, hearing aid cleaning/check, earmold re-tubing, andearmold impressions. Please call 329-4555 to schedule anappointment (required).

Diabetes Support GroupQuarterly (January, April, July, October)Friday, October 4, 1:00 PMTopic: Changes to Medicare and Part D Insurancefor 2014Leader: Bob Erikson, Diabetes Education CoordinatorPlease note the new format for meetings of the DiabetesSupport Group. This group will no longer meet the firstFriday of each month, but will meet approximately onceeach quarter and/or in conjunction with other activi-ties/training sessions, and wellness programs sponsoredby the Senior Center. We will continue to call each mem-ber prior to each meeting. If you are not on our list butwould like to be, please give us a call and we will add youto our call-in list. Pre-register at 329-4555.

Stay Independent -- Prevent Memory Loss2nd Thursday of every month1:00 PM - 2:30 PMSession 1: October 10Session 2: November 14Fee: $5/$8/Non-members/sessionInstructor: Suzanne GernaatA strong prevention program can delay the onset ofAlzheimer's for your lifetime. With just a few simplelifestyle changes, you can lower your risk of memory lossby up to 70%! Don't let your memory just slip away.Please register at 329-4555.

SisterhoodSisterhood is a women’s social group that meets the sec-ond Friday of each month. Meeting agendas will be post-ed on the bulletin board at the PSC. For more informa-tion, please call 329-4555.October 11, Friday November 8, FridayTime: 1:00 Time: 1:00Event: Halloween Show Event: Fun & Games

& Share Site: Portage Senior CenterSite: Portage Senior Center Hostess: Sonia HowardHostess: Ruthie Tiesma

Volunteer and Welcome New Members Oct/Nov 2013Page 14


Volunteer MembersHal and Shirley Ray, group leaders for the Dining OutClub, are also very active Elder Hostel hosts. They aregoing to Lake Geneva for their 100th Elder Hostel andhave been going to these Elder Hostels since 1990.Because they attended so many of the hostels they wereasked to be hosts for them. They went to several inFlorida because their son lived there and that promptedthem to attend more hostels in Florida. They have beento Bermuda, Hawaii and Alaska to name a few. Disney isone of their favorite works. At Disney they also work at"Make a Wish Foundation.” They have been married forsixty-one years this past June and they have been incharge of our “Dining Out Club" for several years. Let’sgive a big congratulation to Hal and Shirley for all theirvolunteering.

Michael AsmusJan HambrightMary CowdenPam & John KnowltonAlvin OdomLynda RaneyJim SnookTheresa NoppenLeslie DodsonNisam AnsariLinda RowleyFontayne Bovee-SimpsonJune DeLucaCheryl HaydenBetty KnudsonSharol RossShirley JohnsonJacque & Kay BrandBarbara Blumka

Nancy KonasLeonard DeGoedeToni DibbleLydia KarpenkoKatherine PatnodeLea StearnsBonnie PolizziAnita OlsenJeanne & Robert ShewchukRobert & Jeanne FaklerNancy ScapardineJoyce GrantEllie BeckAlbert AbramC. T. VanderveenSharon GreenTheresa HammelKathleen AllenPolly Youngs

Volunteer Help Wanted“Adopt a Family” AssistantThis position will help coordinate the “Adopt a Family”program. Every year we adopt a family from the Portage Comunity Center (PCC) and our members purchase giftsor gift cards for the adoption. This position requiresabout one month turn-around time.Thanksgiving Basket CoordinatorOnce a year we collect food items for the PCCThanksgiving Baskets for their clients. This position will organize, check expiration dates on food items and deliv-er the finished baskets to the PCC. This position wouldrequire you to commit to the month of November.Program/Special Project Assistant On-CallGreet guests, answer phone, and assist withMySeniorCenterTM Kiosk, accept member fees, recordclass registrations, assist with community informationand referral. Volunteer Van DriverDrivers needed for transporting patrons in van on aplanned route to and from various center activities andgrocery shopping trips within the City of Portage.Various days and hours would be 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM.

Garden Pals VolunteersHave you noticed how beautiful the gardens at thePortage Senior Center look? Our newest volunteer groupis comprised of Joyce Tuinier (group leader), LynnSearles, Diane Reece, Trudy Girr, Cyndi Brown,Georgann Oldenburg and Karen Wyatt. They have beenmeeting and volunteering to enhance the exterior land-scaping of the PSC. This summer they received dona-tions from Schram’s and Wenke Greenhouses and dona-tions from the homes of volunteers and friends of thesame. Welcome New Members

Oct/Nov 2013 Thank You! and More


Goal

$50,000

$45,000

$40,000

$35,000

$30,000

$25,000

$20,000

$15,000

$10,000

$5,000

FundraisingGoal

Many Thanks to theFollowing Donorsbetween June 25and August 26,2013Onnalee Winn in memoryof Virginia Clancy andTom Hudson Jon, Kelly, Casey &Kerri Hogarth, Joseph &Theresa Gordon, Donald &Louise Anderson,Merrill High, Field’s FireProtection, Dwight &Barbara King,Douglas & Mary Redick,Gordon & Penny Hudson,Alfred Heilman: Inmemory of Tom Hudson

Donors to theAnnual FundJoyce ZastrowElaine BrownBob FergusonFrederick ArbuthnotJoyce SteebyJo LongneckerDiane SchaeberleDale and Kathy Peerbolte

Thanksgiving LunchTuesday, November 19, 11:45 AM$1 registration feeSmall cheer and great welcome makes a merry feast!~William Shakespeare. Come and give thanks as we cele-brate with our annual Thanksgiving Lunch. This event andentertainment sponsored by Absolute Home Care. Themeal is provided through Senior Services with a $3 dona-tion at the event. Registration deadline is Friday,November 15.

Thanksgiving BasketsThe PSC will be collecting food items for the ThanksgivingDay Baskets prepared for clients of the PortageCommunity Center. Some examples of items are: cannedvegetables, fruit and soup, boxes of gelatin and boxed pota-toes. You may bring your canned and boxed foods to theCenter beginning Friday, November 1. Just a friendlyreminder, please make sure that the items have not passedthe expiration date.

It’s in the Bag!Or, the card, better said. There truly is “power in num-bers.” Every time you come into the PSC, it is crucial thatyou use your membership card at the scan-in kiosk. Nomatter how quick your visit, your presence counts! When200 people drop in over the course of a week simply to getinformation – our kiosk system captures those numbers inreport form, offering statistics that support space use,staff positions, and funding requests. When you visit, nomatter the reason, no matter the time of day, please useyour membership card and be a part of the PSC power.

To learn more about placing your advertising messagein the Portage Senior Center’s newsletter,

call Jim Coppinger today at 345-3718. Space is limited.

How would you like to print 2,500business cards and have them delivered

for less than 3¢ each to the homes of2,500 active seniors with

discretionary income and time?

Announcements Oct/Nov 2013Page 16


PSC Minibus will be RetiredReplacement Vehicle Hits the Road The Portage Senior Center Minibus has reached the end ofits service life and will be retired on October 1. Hundredsof miles and smiles have been logged in service to mem-bers of the PSC. The City of Portage prepared ahead for aviable vehicle replacement. Our new vehicle will be a 7-passenger van made available to PSC through a partner-ship between the City of Portage and Kalamazoo CountyMetro-Transit Community Service Van Program.Suggested donation of $3.50 round trip for transportationservices will continue to be welcomed to help subsidizeprogram operations. While we have been fortunate toaccommodate a variety of services stops for groceries,hairdresser appointments, banking, etc., in the past, thecommunity service van program will not be able to accom-modate these excursions. Please note that the new vanroute will only provide transportation to and from theSenior Center, with a planned grocery-shopping day toMeijer Shaver Road store on Wednesdays and Thursdaysfor 1-1/2 hours maximum. Plans are currently underwayto schedule a special shopping excursion near the holidayseason. Please watch for details in the December/Januarynewsletter.

PSC BandHave you heard? The PSC Band has never been better – check them out yourself

at the following locations through October and November.

Date Day Time Location Address

October 1 Tuesday 3:00 PM PSC-Rehearsal 320 Library LanePortage

October 8 Tuesday 2:30 PM Dillon Hall 3301 Gull RoadKalamazoo

October 15 Tuesday 2:30 PM The Fountains @ 1700 Bronson WayBronson Place Oshtemo

October 29 Tuesday 2:30 PM Park Village Pines 2929 Crystal LaneOshtemo

November 5 Tuesday 3:00 PM Rehearsal – TBA TBA

November 12 Tuesday 1:30 PM Covenant Senior 7211 Oakland Dr.Day Program @ PortageSt. Michael Lutheran

November 19 Tuesday 2:30 PM Borgess Gardens 3057 Gull RoadKalamazoo

November 26 Tuesday 3:00 PM PSC-Rehearsal 320 Library LanePortage

Oct/Nov 2013 Travel


Fall Trip Preview: Monday, October 28 at1:30 PM at PSC What’s the Buzz? Join us for our Fall Trip Preview to findout about new, unique and exciting tours! Bring your cashand checkbooks to sign up. Travel bucks will again be validfor the entire preview week and expire Friday, November1. Call 329-4555 to save your seat. Special Trip Preview: Discover Poland. Thursday,November 14 at 10:30 AM. Call 329-4555 to reserveyour seat.

Fun Day-Trip Outings! “NUNSENSATIONS!” Cornwell’s Dinner Theater,MarshallTuesday, October 8The Little Sisters of Hoboken travel to Las Vegas andstage a fundraiser! Will they remain unscathed by theirbrush with Sin City, or will what happens in Vegas have tostay in Vegas? Lunch included.IT’S A MYSTERYThursday, October 10The PSC will provide the surprises and the suspense of notknowing where you are going. All you have to do is enjoythe adventure! Lunch is included. HINT: Learn firsthandhow some of your favorite accessories and patterns aremade, followed by an opportunity to purchase at highly dis-counted prices!

AN INSIDE LOOK AT AMISH LIFE II . . . Nappanee,IndianaThursday, October 17Once again we will have Amish escorts to travel with us –this time to Nappanee. We will visit an Amish bakery, abuggy shop, an Amish school (in session), a cider pressand an Amish General Store. Includes lunch in an Amishhome. Please join us for this fun, informative, and uniqueexperience not available to the general public.

“HELLO DOLLY!,” Drury Lane Theatre, OakbrookTerrace, IllinoisThursday, October 31This show has become one of the most enduring musicaltheater hits, enjoying three Broadway revivals and inter-national success that includes being made into the filmthat was nominated for seven Academy Awards. “HelloDolly!” is a magical piece of musical theater filled withmemorable songs. Lunch included.

TREASURY OF POLISH HERITAGE III . . .HamtramckTuesday, November 12Spend a day in Poland without leaving Michigan! Visit thePolish Art Center with Polish arts and crafts demonstrat-ed (gift included); Polish meat shop; Polish bakery; brieftour of city and historic church. Enjoy Polish hot lunch(included) at Polonia Restaurant and accompaniment byauthentic Polish accordion music!

FUN IN SHIPSHEWANA, Blue Gate Theater,Shipshewana, IndianaFriday, November 15Adapted from the novel The Confession by Beverly Lewis,this is a captivating, faith-based story of a young Amishwoman who is caught in the middle of secrets and scandal,love lost and love found, and personal heartache and heal-ing. She has given us a rich plot, with a compelling char-acter who courageously confronts her past, future, and herfaith. Audiences will enjoy a roller coaster of highs andlows mixed with soaring melodies, inspiring lyrics and glo-rious orchestrations. Show and lunch included at the BlueGate Theater.

Oct/Nov 2013Travel


Extended Trips – 2013 Distinctive PSCGet-Aways! A SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMASDecember 2 – 6A five-time award winner of America’s Best ChristmasEvent, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Festivalfeatures four million holiday lights. George Vanderbiltintroduced his new home to family and friends onChristmas Eve 1895 with a wonderful celebration that wecontinue today. Christmas at Biltmore presents America’slargest home decorated with dozens of Christmas trees,hundreds of wreaths, bows, poinsettias, miles of evergreengarland, and thousands of ornaments. Sponsored by Ed &Ted’s Excellent Adventures.

SANFILIPPO CHRISTMAS . . . IllinoisDecember 10 - 11We have been invited to the Sanfilippo Estate to enjoy anelegant Christmas luncheon followed by an organ concerton the world’s largest restored theatre pipe organ (8000pipes). Trip includes a tour of a beautiful 1914 mansionwith an exquisite collection of fine art and furnishings setin a beautiful 100-acre estate! A stop at theChristkindlmarket, a traditional German AmericanHoliday market in Chicago, will also be made. Tripincludes one overnight and most meals.

Extended Trips – 2014 ExceptionalGet-Aways! A FLORIDA GULF COAST VACATION St. Pete’s Beach, Florida February 20 - March 6Escape the Michigan snow, soak up the Florida sunshineand experience Florida’s natural beauty at the St. PeteBeach area! Do as much or as little as your heart desires– swim in the pool, stroll along the beach and venture intoSt. Pete’s to visit the Salvadore Dali Museum. You caneven watch the Tigers play in spring training, visit theHard Rock Casino, and go to Fort DeSoto for a picnic.Enjoy all of this and more when you stay at the DolphinBeach Resort, located directly on the Gulf Coast!Sponsored by Ed & Ted’s Excellent Adventures.

TEXAS: SAN ANTONIO & GALVESTONFebruary 12 - 19 Enjoy three nights in oceanfront rooms with private bal-conies in Galveston and three nights in beautiful RiverWalk property in San Antonio. Included is roundtrip airtransportation, Houston Space Center, the Alamo & SanJose Mission, Institute of Texas Cultures, San AntonioRiver Cruise, tour of LBJ Ranch, Library and Museumplus much more! Sponsored by Shoreline Tours.

ITALY & GREECEApril 27 – May 9, 2014Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, according to legend,will guarantee a return trip to Rome. Help make this leg-end come true, and sign up for this trip today! Discovertwo vibrant Mediterranean countries on one exciting vaca-tion! Ancient history, art, fashion, cuisine, age-old castles,medieval villages and artisan shops await. Begin in Romewith guided sightseeing visits to the mighty Colosseum,Roman Forum and Vatican Museum with Sistine Chapel.Follow the coastline of the Tyrrhenian Sea to marvel atPisa’s Leaning Tower. Travel through Tuscany to Florence,

Italy & Greece continued on page 19

Oct/Nov 2013 Travel and More


Italy & Greece, from page 18

the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” In Verona, see Juliet’sfamous balcony; in Venice, enjoy a canal boat ride to St.Mark’s Square and marvel at the elaborate architecture. InAncona, board an overnight ferry to Greece. Visit Patras,Olympia, Tolon, the impressive Mycenae archaeologicalsite, and Corinth Canal and Athens! Optional 3-day Aegeancruise extension available. Ask about early booking discount.

DISCOVERING POLANDSeptember 4 – 15, 2014Embark on an all-encompassing excursion around Poland.Tour the thriving capital city of Warsaw. Reborn afterWorld War II, it is again one of Europe’s great culturalcenters. Walk the meandering lanes of historical Krakow,where you will visit Wawel Castle, once home to the kingsof Imperial Poland. The somber history and tragic realityof Auschwitz is unveiled during a moving visit. Behold theBlack Madonna on a tour of Jasna Gora Monastery. Standon the dock where union workers formed the SolidarityAnti-Communist Movement in 1989 Gdansk. Explore theancient city squares and UNESCO World Heritage sightsof Torun, Wroclaw, Warsaw, Gdansk, and Krakow. Thisnation, with its rich past and thriving economy, is ready tobe discovered as the old “east” transforms itself into thenew heart of Europe.

Student Intern, AshleyHello! I’m Ashley Machacek,and I am pleased to be the newintern at the Portage SeniorCenter! Although I grew up inSaint Joseph, I now live inKalamazoo while attendingschool. I have two wonderfulparents, an older brother and apuppy named Fluffy! I havejust begun my senior year atWestern Michigan University,where I am double majoring infamily studies and psychology.I also work at the UniversityRoadhouse, and recentlyhelped restart the FamilyStudies Student Organizationon campus. In my free time, Ienjoy being with friends andfamily, baking and dancing.While with the PSC, I want towork with the Partners andPen Pals programs, helping tocoordinate events, learningabout intergenerational pro-gramming and examining how people learn throughouttheir lives. After graduation, I am fortunate to be able totravel to Europe with my mother. I am looking forward to meeting and working with you all!

Living YourLife at Home

ABSOLUTE HOMECARE

City of PortageSenior Citizens Services

7900 South WestnedgePortage, MI 49002

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDKALAMAZOO, MIPERMIT NO. 58

The mission of the PortageSenior Center is to provide,

with the help of its members,information and a range of

services, activities, andvolunteer opportunities which

promote personal growth,friendship, health and

independence for adults aged50 and over.

Look for your renewal dateon the address label.

AARP Affordable Care Act Presentation When: Tuesday, October 1, 10 AMLocation: PSC Gallery – register at Front DeskDescription: Now that its main features are about to be implemented, it’s time to know all the facts about the new “PatientProtection and Affordable Care Act”. Attend this session to learn how the new law affects you and your family, to receivea packet of information resources, and to share your thoughts about ongoing challenges in America’s health care system.Speakers: Vern & Darlene Hoag, AARP Michigan

friends of the portage senior center brings holiday … of the portage senior center brings holiday...

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