Healthy Living Together Series Focuses on Preserving Summer Fruit

McKenzie Health System will continue its 2026 Healthy Living Together series with an informative session designed to help participants make the most of Michigan’s summer harvest. The next event, titled “Preserving MI Harvest: Preserving Summer Fruit,” will be presented by Laurie Messing, Food Safety Educator with MSU Extension, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

The session will take place in person in the McKenzie Dining Room, located at 120 Delaware Street in Sandusky, with a virtual option available for those who wish to participate remotely.

During this presentation, participants will learn safe and effective methods for preserving summer fruits, helping families enjoy fresh Michigan produce long after the growing season ends. Topics will include food safety best practices, preservation techniques, and practical tips for maintaining quality and flavor while reducing food waste.

“Many of us enjoy the abundance of fresh fruit available during Michigan summers, but preserving that harvest can feel intimidating,” said Nina Barnett, McKenzie Public Relations and Foundation Coordinator and Healthy Living Committee Chair. “This session will provide practical information and trusted guidance to help participants preserve fruits safely and confidently.”

The Healthy Living Together series provides free, monthly educational opportunities designed to support the health and wellness of individuals and families in Sanilac County and beyond. Each session is offered in person from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., with a virtual option available.

Below is the updated remaining 2026 Healthy Living Together schedule:

· August 19: Digital Safety for Seniors – Avoiding Scams Thumb Bank & Trust: Kelly Gerstenberger, Market President; Holly Bonesteel, Assistant Vice President, Branch Manager; Tabitha Ellul, Business Development Specialist Location: Liberty Lanes, 100 Kristian Street, Sandusky

· September 16: Stop the Bleed, Hands Only CPR, & Home Firearm Safety Morgan Fraley, BSN, RN, Stop the Bleed Specialist; Melissa Govea, American Heart Association CPR Instructor; Steve McKenney, Sandusky Chief of Police Location: Liberty Lanes, 100 Kristian Street, Sandusky

· October 21: Aging Well Through Nutrition and Lifestyle Olivia Mantei, StoryPoint Group at Stonegate Assisted Living Location: Liberty Lanes, 100 Kristian Street, Sandusky

· November 18: Estate Planning Basics – Wills, Power of Attorney, Trusts, Ladybird Deed, and More Michael Rolando, Attorney, Biddinger, Schrot & Rolando, PC Location: McKenzie Dining Room, 120 Delaware Street, Sandusky

All sessions are open to the public and free to attend. For more information or to register, please visit www.McKenzieHealth.org/Healthy-Living or call 810-648-6127.

Healthy Living Together is a collaborative project developed by McKenzie Health System in partnership with the Sanilac County Health Department, MSU Extension, Great Start Collaborative Sanilac, and Sanilac County Community Mental Health. The series is designed to offer helpful tools, knowledge, and resources that support the health and wellness of individuals and families throughout Sanilac County.