Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Enews12-15

 About OLLI E-News

OLLI E-News was created by Rod Zumbro, who served as its editor from 2005 to 2013.

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor/Technical Editor: Irene Osterman
Associate Editor:
Weekly Editorial Team: Pat Bangs, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel, Sheri Siesseger, Leslie Vandivere
Proofreaders: John West, Gordon Canyock, Susan Van Hemel Backup Chief Editor: Sheri Siesseger

Submissions.  Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles and photos.  Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline – 6:00 pm Tuesday for that week's issue (6:00 pm Monday for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.

OLLI E-News April 17, 2015
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
OLLI Teacher Appreciation Reception, Apr 7, 2015

April 17, 2015


Editor of the Week: Sheri Siesseger
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices


The OLLI Valentine party has been rescheduled for Fri, May 22. The party will be an ice cream social from 1:00-3:00 in TA-1. Registration will open soon.

Reminder: the event to celebrate George Heatley’s life is on Sat, Apr 18, from 2:00 to 5:00 at “The Surge”, at the corner of Westmoreland Street and Kirby Road in McLean (1988 Kirby Rd.). If you need to RSVP, please e-mail Cecile Heatley at:  [email protected]. 


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OLLI Courses in the Making
 


By Kathryn Russell, Program Committee Co-Chair
 


Now that we’re in the middle of the fabulous spring term, this is a good time to reflect on how all these wonderful courses we’re attending actually come about. Each term we enjoy great benefits from a stunning array of courses, special events and ongoing activities. This spring term features nearly 150 of these learning and social opportunities. Each year we have about 400 choices to make as we fill our calendars.

These opportunities begin with ideas generated by many OLLI members. For example, you may come up with an idea inspired by a class you’re currently taking. You may discover a fascinating idea in the media or some other source. Or perhaps you’re thinking of teaching a class or leading a discussion. When you come up with a good idea for future terms, let our program planners know.

The ideas we collect go to program planning groups that meet periodically to transform ideas into courses. Then we’re ready for the process of developing the courses:
  • Many volunteer coordinators contact potential instructors.
  • Courses are approved by program planners, Program Associate Beth Davis, and the Executive Director.
  • Class coordinators help develop the courses by continuing to work with instructors and staff.
  • Course descriptions are completed, and the catalog is compiled by other volunteers.
As you can see, many volunteers are required to help put together this program that we cherish. We invite you to come along and join in the process of program making. There are lots of ways to take part. One easy way to become involved is to attend one of the program planning group meetings that are held periodically. I know you’ll enjoy the camaraderie and exchange of ideas. Look for announcements of these meetings in E-News. For more information contact one of the program planning leaders listed in the front of the OLLI catalog or Program Committee co-chairs:  Kathryn Russell, [email protected] and Russell Stone, [email protected]
A Thank You to George Mason at Teacher Appreciation and Scholarship Awards Ceremony
 


By Alice Slayton Clark, Communications Associate/Registrar
 

Though stormy outside, the weather did not cloud the radiant mood inside the Center for the Arts as the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute celebrated its annual teacher appreciation and student scholarship awards ceremony April 7. OLLI members and instructors gathered with Mason department heads and scholarship award recipients to give thanks to all who contributed to another fine year of academic excellence at OLLI.  
 
“Whenever a society values learning, investing in it at all levels, then that community thrives,” said Mason President Angel Cabrera with respect to OLLI’s programming for its membership. And thrive, OLLI does. Last year alone, OLLI exceeded programming expectations, with over 450 instructors/speakers for 400 classes over four terms. OLLI Executive Director Jennifer Disano spotlighted the accomplishments of several instructors and programming volunteers. “Good teachers and good courses are the reason why so many people join and stay at OLLI,” she said.
 
In his keynote address, President Cabrera lavished praise on the Friends of OLLI donors for channeling scholarship money to the Mason departments that provided teachers for OLLI classrooms. In all, 23 Mason students were awarded $16,500 in scholarship monies from Friends of OLLI. “OLLI is not only investing in its own learning, but also so future generations can make their whole potential come true,” President Cabrera said. According to longstanding donors Garrett and Janet Cochran, there is no better use of the Friends of OLLI Fund than for scholarships to Mason students. It is a small way of giving back to Mason for sending teachers to OLLI.
 
Christian Koudelka, chosen by the Volgenau School of Engineering for his work to enhance computer imaging for the treatment and diagnosis of aneurysms, said the OLLI award is “very exciting” because it helps him defray the costs of college. Christian says he does not have the time to handle a paid job along with his heavy course load and lab work. Theater major Justin Sumblin offered a similar message, noting that the OLLI scholarship helps him to pursue his dream of being an actor performing on Broadway. Other recipients shared similar thoughts. As they juggle research projects, leadership responsibilities and social work along with a busy course schedule, they have little time for a paid job to help offset educational expenses. They are all grateful for the OLLI awards.
 
OLLI President Glenn Kamber concluded that the day’s events would not be possible without 24 years of close bonds between OLLI and George Mason. Whether it is teachers in the classroom, facility support, or scholarships for Mason students, “OLLI cannot be more grateful for the close synergies forged between us,” he said.
You Are Invited to Submit E-News Photos



By Paul Van Hemel, E-News Photo Editor


Would you like to see a broader scope of photos used for the picture at the top of each issue of OLLI E-News? You are encouraged to be alert to opportunities to capture OLLI photos that can be of interest to our readers. Subjects might be OLLI special events, demonstrations or activities in classes or clubs, prominent speakers, meetings, OLLI campus happenings, or other highlights of OLLI life.

To be prepared to snap a picture or two, you can just use your cell-phone camera, although other cameras are fine, too. To submit something, simply send one or more photos to mailto:[email protected], and be sure to provide the name of the photographer, the date the photo was taken, and a few words to identify the event, class, or other subject of the photo. (Sometimes, you might want to include a brief write-up that could be an E-News article, and the photo could be an accompaniment to the article, with you as author, rather than a candidate for the picture at the top of an E-News issue.)

We welcome your photo submissions! Of course, we cannot guarantee that all photos will be published, but if you persist in sending submissions when others stop, the chances of yours being selected are increased. So activate your shutter!
And the Winners Are...



By Martha Powers, Member Services Co-Chair and Poetry Workshop Member


The Poetry Society of Virginia recently notified the winners in its prestigious annual poetry contest for 2015. From 1,883 entries in 25 categories, four OLLI members walked off with one award each.

Mike Mc Namara won second prize for his “The Liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, on January 27th, 1945” in a category that focuses on poems about an historic event between 1925 and 1992. Mike is co-moderator (with Jan Bohall) of the Poetry Workshop.

Conrad Geller's "Sons" took second place in the category for poems honoring fathers and/or their sacrifices. Connie is well known for his sense of humor and acting ability, and for the many courses he has taught at the Loudoun site. 

Barry Berkey won second honorable mention for his poem "Don't Worry: Dial 1-800-WeLoveYou" in the category A Poem with a Point of View. He is a former member of the Poetry Workshop, 

Martha Powers picked up first honorable mention for her "Retirement Community Senryu" in the lyric poem category. Martha had never written a poem until a year ago when she attended OLLI's annual poetry reading and immediately joined the Poetry Workshop.

Looks like poetry is thriving at OLLI!

Please come to OLLI’s next poetry reading on Fri, May 29!

An Invitation from Mason's School of Music

By Courtney Buvid, George Mason College of Visual and Performing Arts

Please join us as George Mason’s University Chorale presents: A Broadway Showcase at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. Hear songs from How to Succeed in Business, Mamma Mia, and highlights from Jersey Boys. Come to the show either Fri, Apr 17 at 8:00 or Sat, Apr 18 at 3:00 or 8:00. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. For more information or to buy tickets, visit the Hylton Performing Arts Center website by clicking here. 

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A Visit to the Lincoln and National WWII Memorials

By Karen Murphy, OLLI Member

On Friday, April 10, James Percoco, a public sculpture expert and Lincoln historian, led OLLI members on a monument tour on the National Mall. At the Lincoln Memorial, Percoco shared from his extensive knowledge of Lincoln the significance and the construction of the memorial. Moving towards the WWII Memorial the group paused at both the Korean and Vietnam Veterans Memorials for reflection and further insights from Percoco.

The visit ended at the WWII Memorial. Percoco enriched the tour by focusing on the symbolism of the memorial. He also explained the specific construction planning of the WWII Memorial so that the view of the Washington Monument from the Lincoln Memorial would not be obstructed.

Photos by Tom Hady

Photo of the Month
The April Photo of the Month theme was "Reflections." We selected Edward Marion's photo "Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco" which may also be viewed at this page. To view other photos by members of the Photography Club, visit the club's photo website.
By Dan Feighery, Photography Club Coordinator

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
 
Lonely

Button but no
buttonhole
 
shoe without
shoelace
 
snow without shadow
shadow less substance
 
peanut butter without jelly
eggs without ham
 
Ms Essence searching for
Mr Extravagance
 
sun without sunshine
sunshine without moonshine
 
                        Tony Rounds
Arts & Music at George Mason

Performances, next ten days

By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer

For tickets for either CFA or Hylton, call 1-888-945-2468, buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below), or visit the venue's box office. For more information see the CFA ticket page or the Hylton ticket purchase page.
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Russian National Ballet Theatre: Cinderella
Sat, Apr 18, 8:00
Pre-performance discussion: member of the company.
Concert Hall
Admission: $56, $48, $34.
 
Russian National Ballet Theatre: Sleeping Beauty
Sun, Apr 19, 4:00
Pre-performance discussion: member of the company.
Concert Hall
Admission: $56, $48, $34.

BBC Concert Orchestra
Fri, Apr 24, 8:00
Ravel: Le Tombeau de Couperin
Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major
Walton: Crown Imperial
Vaughn Williams: Norfolk Rhapsody No. 1 in E minor
Britten: Variations and Fugue on a Theme of Purcell
Pre-performance discussion: member of the company
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
 
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra: An Evening with Doc Severinsen
Sat, Apr 25, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $30.

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Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

University Chorale: Broadway Showcase
Fri, Apr 17, and Sat, Apr 18, 8:00 
Sat, Apr 18, 3:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: Adults, $15; seniors, $5.

Mason Wind Symphony & Symphonic Band Concert
Tue, Apr 21, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Adults, $10; seniors, $5.
 
Jazz Combos/Afro-Cuban Ensemble Concert
Wed, Apr 22, 8:00
de Laski 3001
Admission: Free
 
Chamber Music Concert
Thu, Apr 23, 8:00
de Laski 3001
Admission: Free
 
Mason Opera: Gilbert & Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance
Fri, Apr 24, and Sat, Apr 25, 8:00
Sat, Apr 25, 2:00
Sun, Apr 26, 3:00
Pre-performance discussion: 7:15 on Apr 24 in the Choral Room
Harris Theatre
Admission: Adults, $20; seniors, $15.
 
The Annual Ten-Minute Play Festival
Fri, Apr 24, and Sat, Apr 25, 8:00
Sat, Apr 25, 2:00
TheaterSpace
Admission: Adults, $15; seniors, $10.
 

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At the Hylton Center

Mason School of Art Selected Faculty Exhibit
Continues through Mon, Apr 20
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery is open to the public Tue-Sat, 10:00 - 6:00, Thu, 10:00 - 8:00 and two hours before performances.
Admission: Free.

Asaph Dance: Civil War Letters
Fri, Apr 17, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: Adults, $30; seniors, $20.
 
Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: Popular Piano Classics
Sun, Apr 19, 4:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $40, $34, $24.

Manassas Senior Center Art Exhibit
Tue, Apr 21 - May 10
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Gallery Reception: Thurs, May 7 from 6:00 to 8:00. RSVP to [email protected].
Admission: Free.
 
Pied Piper Theatre: Shrek the Musical
Presented by Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory
Sat, Apr 24, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Apr 25, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: Adults, $15; children, $12.
 
New Dominion Choraliers: A Broadway Adventure
Sat, Apr 25, 7:30
Sun, Apr 26, 3:30
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: Adults, $20; seniors, $15.

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For further details on any of the above events, please see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar

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Meetings & Clubs


The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office, with direct web links added when available. The list is accurate as of mid-week but to check anytime for the latest information, please view the latest forecast of upcoming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, Kickoff Coffees, etc. (bolded below).
Sat Apr18 10:30am
 1:00pm		 Tai Chi Club­­–TA-3
Personal Computer User Group–TA-1
Tue Apr 21 10:00am Knitting and Needlework Club–Panera, Herndon
Wed Apr 22 1:45pm Bridge Club–TA-3
Fri Apr 24  9:00am
 9:30am
10:00am
11:00am
11:00am
12:00pm		 Recorder Consort–TA-3
Travel Club–Cottage
Classic Fiction Book Club–Cascades Library
Classic Literature Club–TA-2
Homer etc–Annex
Photography Club–TA-1
Sat Apr 25 10:30pm Tai Chi Club–TA-3
Tue Apr 28 10:00am Knitting and Needlework Club–Panera, Herndon
Wed Apr 29 1:30pm
1:45pm		 Memoir Writing Group– Cottage
Bridge Club–TA-3
Fri  May 1 10:00am
10:00am		 Craft and Conversation–Cottage
Annual Meeting and Picnic–TA-1

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AT GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

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Phone: (703) 503-3384
Email: [email protected]

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