Board of Directors meeting, led by OLLI President Deborah Engleson and Executive Director Lisa Mariam, was held at Tallwood on June 6. Business included election of officers for the coming year.
OLLI Personal Computer User Group 3rd Saturday meeting is June 21, at 1:00, in person and via Zoom. See article below for Zoom link and other information.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, June 27. The regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, June 24, at 6:00.
From the Desk of the Executive Director Thank You for the Warm Welcome
By Lisa Mariam, Executive Director
I'm thrilled to join the OLLI GMU community as your new Executive Director. My role is to ensure that OLLI continues to evolve in productive and forward-looking ways. I'll be visiting many classes and clubs over the coming weeks (which I consider a major perk of the job!). If I haven't met you yet, please, introduce yourself. These first months I will be focused on listening, and I appreciate your feedback about your OLLI experience.
Celebrate with Your OLLI Friends on July 4th
By Marilyn Harriman, Diversions Chair, Walk & Talk Club Co-Chair
Come out and celebrate with your OLLI Friends on July 4th!
OLLI’s Walk & Talk Club will be participating in the Fairfax Fourth of July Parade for the third year in a row, as part of the George Mason University contingent, and we’d love to have you join us.
Last year, we marched behind the GMU Athletic Association, who included us in their cheers and songs as we walked. This event is a blast! It’s a great way to celebrate the Fourth of July, show your OLLI spirit, and get out into the fresh air.
Wearing red, white, and/or blue, we’ll march behind our OLLI Mason banner and wave to the crowds lined up along the parade route. The parade route is on flat city streets and is less than a mile long (.87 miles). Marchers move at a fairly relaxed pace.
The parade begins at 10:00, and our involvement ends before 11:00. Participants must be parked by 8:10 before the roads close.
We will gather at our designated place in the lineup and enjoy hanging out under shaded trees until the parade begins. After we exit the route, we head for our cars and meet up (optional) for lunch at PJ Skidoo’s on Fairfax Boulevard.
To join us, email me, Marilyn Harriman, Walk & Talk co-chair, before July 2 so we can look for you and give you parking and meet-up details: [email protected].
By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Chairperson
Did you know that April 10th marked the 100th anniversary of The Great Gatsby? This novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald has endless possibilities for an OLLI Humanities course or two.
Here are some philosophical themes to consider for a presentation:
The American Dream…how has it changed/or has it?
The “green light” on the dock…a metaphor to explore.
Dangers of living in the “past” rather than the present.
What exactly is “the pursuit of happiness?”
The importance of being your true self.
The truth about “The Roaring Twenties.”
For this or any other course idea, please use the following document:
The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, June 21, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Mastering Your New Mac—Presented by Lorrin Garson
If you like learning a new computer system, you must thoroughly enjoy going to the dentist. It’s a painful and emotional experience and it takes weeks, if not months, to become comfortable with a new system—at least for most people. In any case, it’s easier than learning to use a computer for the first time! “Mastering Your New Mac” will provide basic information for those learning to use an iMac or MacBook.
Lorrin Garson had a long career in technical publishing of chemical information. His presentations to our computer groups are famous for their thorough research and clarity in explaining topics such as cryptography, encryption of personal data, cloud storage, and the origins of personal computers.
PHEV and Hybrid Battery Charge Level Monitor—Presented by John Krout
This presentation will enable you to extend the life of your hybrid battery, probably the most expensive battery you will own, and therefore the resale value of your hybrid vehicle. Pluggable Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), including both an electric motor, a large rechargeable battery, and a gasoline engine, are outselling the more expensive EVs in the United States.
You will learn how to use a zero-cost app and a low-cost On-Board Diagnostics (ODB) Bluetooth adapter to view the traction battery charge level as a percentage of the battery capacity whenever your vehicle is turned on. The app works with a variety of Hybrids and PHEVs from Toyota and associated brands. The app lists both the vehicle models and ODB Bluetooth adapters known to work with the app.
John Krout is a frequent presenter at our meetings on a wide range of computer, technology and photography topics, and author of many articles for the PATACS Posts newsletter. He also presents for national APCUG Wednesday Workshops and Saturday Safaris, and contributes articles to APCUG's library of shared newsletter content.
PC Clinic in the Annex
Get hands-on help with your computer and technology problems from PATACS experts. Bring in your computer, and we'll help you lose the 'blues' - system slowdowns, unwanted programs, virus and malware. We can help install new RAM, optical drives, hard disks, and software. Be sure to read the Clinic Rules – click link: Clinic Rules
See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 and are now due for 2025 (and 2024, if you didn’t get around to paying earlier!)—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.
To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45, please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 340191 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 895 2587 0071 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) conducts a casual, drop-in conversation on Zoom every second Wednesday at 4:00. Each session is on a different topic.
The topic for Team Bloch's Wednesday afternoon chat on June 25 is National Public Radio, the Public Broadcasting System, and our local affiliates WETA and WETA Classical. These systems are potentially being undermined by a projected loss of federal funding. How does that affect you? Are you a regular listener or viewer? If so, what are your favorites?
You may listen in as a lurker or add to the discussion—up to you—but we encourage you to voice your thoughts; that way we all benefit and learn from each other.
The Zoom link is always found in the OLLI daily schedule email on the relevant morning. Log on and join us on June 25 or any future session.
I heard its kik-kik-kikkik above
ever-present traffic sounds
whatever it might be
but couldn’t quite identify the sound
large bird, big voice box
guessing a heron, no,
lacking water close by
then a fast rat-a-tat-tat
of sharp beak on wood
trusty Merlin
brought me the answer
a pileated woodpecker
within a dense stand of deciduous trees
well hidden from my view
on about his business
of drumming
to declare his territory
Sara “Sally” Noblett Heyer (formerly Sara Carey Noblett), OLLI member since 2020, passed away peacefully in Fairfax, Virginia, on May 22, 2025, after complications from a fall and recovery. Her husband of almost 61 years, Robert “Bob” Heyer, and sons John Heyer, Robin “Rob” Heyer, David Heyer, her sister Molly Stephens, and their families were tending her recovery process to the end. Sally was a most faithful, kind, and loving wife and “Mom” for all as we grew up, supporting many activities.
Sally was born on February 26, 1942, in Richmond, Virginia to Geroge W. Noblett Jr and Mary Penington Noblett and grew up in Kilmarnock, Virginia graduating high school from St. Margaret's School in Tappahannock in 1960. She then graduated from Duke University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1964, where she met Bob Heyer. They were married right after graduation and proceeded to Naval Flight training in Pensacola, Florida, Meridian, Mississippi, and Kingsville, Texas. From there they moved around for 20 years with Navy tours in Jacksonville, Florida, Monterey, California, Lemoore, California, Cubi Point, Philippines, and Northern Virginia before Bob retired. Sally was the heart of our family, always a devoted wife, and mother, raising the three boys through many activities while Bob was flying with Navy cruises and temporary duties. He retired from the Navy in 1984; they remained in Burke, Virginia, and Fairfax Station, Virginia as the boys grew up. Sally did volunteer work in schools the boys attended and supported many soccer functions and band gigs. With a love for reading, Sally enjoyed working for a few years at the Crown Book store.
She is survived by husband Bob, sons John (wife Tricia and son Gavin), Robin (wife Kerry), David (son Jack and daughter Dalton) and sister Molly Stephens (sons Jeb and Harper, and daughters Brent and Grace) of Pawley’s Island, South Carolina.
A service and burial will be held at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Burke, Virginia, on Sunday, June 15, at 3:00, with a reception afterward. More information is available at this link.
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A., Mason Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
Mason Jazz Camp, coming up in two weeks, features FREE concerts during June 23-28! All concerts are free and open to the public. No tickets or camp registration are required. Just show up and enjoy the concert! All performances are at the Center for the Arts.
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket pageor the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this linkto stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website,Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall (25-26 Season subscriptions to Great Performances now on sale)
Mason Summer Band Camp Final Concert 2025
Fri, Jun 20, 3:00
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Admission: Free and Open to the Public.
Mason Jazz Camp Faculty Showcase Mon, Jun 23, 3:30-4:30
The Mason Jazz Camp faculty perform a special showcase to open the camp! Click here for more information.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Admission: Free and Open to the Public.
Juan Megna Tue, Jun 24, 3:30-4:30
Drummer and Percussionist. Click here for more information.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Admission: Free and Open to the Public.
Alton Sencalar Wed, Jun 25, 3:30-4:30
American trombonist, composer, and educator. Click here for more information.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Admission: Free and Open to the Public.
The US Navy Band Commodores Thu Jun 26, 3:30-4:30
The Navy's premier jazz ensemble. Click here for more information.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Admission: Free and Open to the Public.
Mason Jazz Camp - Student Showcase 2025
Fri, Jun 27, 2:00
Mason Jazz camp student showcase to conclude the week-long camp! Click here for more information.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Admission: Free and Open to the Public.
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Jun 14
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jun 16
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News?
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Poetry Reading Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jun 17
10:00 am
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
How to Zoom – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jun 18
10:30 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
4:00 pm
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Spanish Club
Thu Jun 19
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jun 20
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Jun 21
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Jun 23
10:00 am
10:00 am
4:00 pm
Board Game Club – online
Bridge Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jun 24
2:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Caregivers Support Group – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jun 25
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Thu Jun 26
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jun 27
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Spanish Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
OLLI E-News was created by Rod Zumbro, who served as its editor from 2005 to 2013.
Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
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: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, 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.
Dr. Peter Henriques, Mason Professor Emeritus of History, Expert on George Washington and Instructor of Many Popular OLLI Courses, Presented on George Washington and Slavery, May 14
Registration for the summer term is underway. The summer catalog is available on the website. Be sure to check the canceled, changed, and added list on the website.
Board of Directors meeting Friday, June 6, at 10:00, in person at Tallwood in TA-1 and via Zoom. All members are welcome.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, June 13; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, June 10, at 6:00.
Wednesday Conversation Topic for June 11
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
For the Team Bloch Conversation on June 11, our topic will be "The Great Gatsby at the 100th Year Anniversary."
F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel was published by Scribners in April 1925, one hundred years ago. Did you know that it was not a commercial success at first? The first printing of 20,000 copies sold very slowly and the second printing had not yet sold out when Fitzgerald died in 1940 at age 44. What does the novel say about the times that we are living in today (if anything)?
We meet via Zoom every second Wednesday at 4:00 on the OLLI Chat Line. Any OLLI member is welcome to join us. The Zoom meeting link is found in the OLLI Daily Schedule on the mornings of our meetings.
There is a relief in the photos of birds
a neighbor posts on our neighborhood blog.
I wonder,
how do these fragile beings survive,
where are they flying to,
and my head, then even my body,
relaxes as I think
about flying with them
through openings in trees,
soaring in the sun,
fast flitting to shelter when it rains,
taking to the air quickly when
the ground becomes dangerous,
singing to other birds to let
them know what I see going on.
I cannot do that.
My mind can.
– Betty Smith
Elizabeth (Betty) Smith was an active OLLI member since 2010, as well as the founder of the Memoir and More Writing Club. Although she moved to Colorado two years ago to be closer to a daughter, thanks to Zoom, Betty continued to participate in the OLLI Poetry Workshop. She was a creative and accomplished poet, as well as a willing resource for other writers. Betty passed away in September 2024. We honor her memory and her commitment to writing with one of her many beautiful poems.
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see the CFA ticket page link below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket page or the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Pre-performance discussions will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Concert Hall, 45 minutes prior to curtain. As seating is limited, a livestream will also be available on screens in the main lobby.
Fairfax Symphony Celebrates Zimmerman's 15th Anniversary Elgar:Introduction and Allegro for Strings Leshnoff:Concertante for 2 Violins and Orchestra(East Coast Premiere) with Chee-Yun and Kit Zimmerman, violin Shostakovich:Symphony No.10
Sat, May 31, 8:00
Pre-performance discussion
Concert Hall
Admission: $65, $55, $40.
National Community Band Festival, Center for the Arts
Sat, Jun 7, Concert Hall:
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat May 31
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jun 2
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News?
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Poetry Reading Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jun 3
10:00 am
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Large Program Planning Meeting
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jun 4
10:30 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
4:00 pm
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Jun 5
10:00 am
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Facilities Lunch
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jun 6
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Jun 7
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jun 9
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News?
Board Game Club – online
Bridge Club
Poetry Writing Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jun 10
2:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Caregivers Support Group – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jun 11
10:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Thu Jun 12
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jun 13
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
2:30 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
OLLI E-News was created by Rod Zumbro, who served as its editor from 2005 to 2013.
Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
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: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, 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.
Karen Wheeless described how recordings that were distributed to deployed WWII military throughthe Armed Forces Radio Service (AFRS) during a 1940s 27-month strike by musicians preserved thousands of classic performances on VDiscs; May9
OLLI Personal Computer User Group 3rd Saturday meeting is May 17 (tomorrow), at 1:00, in person and via Zoom; check today's OLLI daily schedule email for link and other information.
Registration for the summer term begins May 20 and continues through the term. The summer catalog is available on the website. Be sure to check the canceled, changed, and added list on the website.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, May 30; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, May 27, at 6:00.
By Camille Hodges, Board Member and E-News Staff Writer
The story of Black Fairfax has long been untold. The free Black population of Fairfax Court House dates to at least the 1820s. After the Civil War, newly freed Black citizens expanded the hamlet of Jermantown dramatically. Additional segregated neighborhoods, including School Street, which overlapped today's George Mason University, and Ilda, off Guinea Road, grew and thrived. In the second half of the nineteenth century, residents built schools, churches, and a cemetery. These families persevered under Jim Crow in the early twentieth century.
Etta Willson, Rita Colbert, Linneall Naylor, Rondia Prescott, and Jenee Lindner, authors of Black Communities of Fairfax: A History, discussed their book in presentations for OLLI Mason at the Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim in Fairfax on April 7 and 14 as part of a three-part series.
Save the Date: LLT Program Planning Group to Meet May 27
By Patrica Bangs, LLT Program Planning Group Co-Coordinator
What: Literature, Languages/Writing, and Theater (LLT) Program Planning Group Meeting
When: Tuesday, May 27, 10:00-11:00 Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Via Zoom (see link below)
OLLI members, we need your thoughts and ideas. Whether you enjoy the classics or spy novels, sci-fi or memoirs, want to read poetry, learn a language, explore playwrights and the world of theater, or hone your writing skills, the LLT Program Planning Group would love to hear from you.
Please join us for our quarterly all-campus program planning group meeting for literature, languages/writing, and theater program planning May 27 at 10:00 via Zoom.
We will be reviewing past terms and planning for the winter 2026 term and beyond. All OLLI members can contribute to this excellent programming. Bring ideas for literature, theater, writing, or language programs, and possible instructor resources. And, of course, if you or anyone you know would like to join our group, here is your opportunity to see the process in action. Spread the word. See you on May 27.
The meeting Zoom link from Shannon Morrow, our staff program associate, is below. The link will also be available on the emailed daily schedule. If you would like to be added to our LLT mailing list for a reminder, please email Pat Bangs at: [email protected].
It’s heating up out there. If the HEAT INDEX is in the Caution Zone or above, consider limiting or avoiding time outdoors. Remember to check not only the time you leave but the time you plan to return. Many weather apps will report this hourly.
June Theater Picks: Something New and Something Old
By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator
Something New! Murder by the Numbers
A murder mystery dinner with yummy BBQ, a help-yourself beer wall, and a chance to be in the show is what awaits you when you join the Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) on Saturday, June 7 for the StageCoach Theatre Company's performance of the newly minted Murder by the Numbers at Ono Offshore in Chantilly. This original murder mystery takes place in Las Vegas in the 1960s. Author Wayne Kerr is on stage talking about his recently published book, a thriller, dealing with chance, intrigue, and betrayal. His fans are more interested in murder than autographs. A publicity stunt or real life? You will have to be there to find out. Tickets, which are $61.25/person, include the dinner and show but not refreshments. Tickets sell out fast and can be purchased online at stagecoachtc.com. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner is at 6 and the show starts at 6:45.
Something Old: The Piano Lesson
A winner of Pulitzer Prize for Drama, The Piano Lesson is a play written by American playwright August Wilson in 1987, the fourth in his Pittsburgh Cycle. At the center of discussion is the family's heirloom piano that is decorated with designs carved by an enslaved ancestor showing the faces of the great grandfather's wife and son during enslavement. Bernice and her brother Boy Willie grapple with their differing views of the piano (with its own story) and questions about their lives. What do you do with a legacy? How do you put it to best use? TLG will attend the 2 p.m. matinee performance on Saturday, June 14 at 1st Stage. There are still some $25 tickets left. Phone 703-854-1856 to get yours. There will be a Meet the Cast talk back after the show, followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant. Remember that guests are always welcome.
Editor's Note: At the author’s request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) 3rd Saturday meeting May 17 presentation by Rob Pegoraro has an updated description. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
2025 In Tech: What Fresh Hell Is This? Presented by Rob Pegoraro
Yes, so many things seem kind of terrible right now. Between Trump's tariffs and his crusade against environmental-protection policies, even a tablet or a TV purchase isn't what it used to be. I'll talk about what's going on right now, what you can do about it (spoiler alert: sometimes nothing), and what's actually getting better in the tech universe.
Biographical information for Rob Pegoraro can be found in the Computer Club meeting announcement in the May 9 E-News issue: click here.
The May 2025 Photo of the Month theme was close-ups. We selected Cookie (Ellen) Hilert's photo "Duckling: Pond at Burke Center" 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 John Olsen and Edward Marion, Photography Club Co-Coordinators
you birthed your own demons
in the teen years, a horrific accident
self-medicated with alcohol
the garage now your private bar
kept a job, brought home the bacon,
never a DUI. But when you
menaced your wife, that final straw
woke you to action
thirty years hence, no longer lost to me
reborn sans alcohol, easy to forget
the dark days, the shovel attack
a story now relived with laughter
a new person, full of epiphanies
more alike than different, we
no longer rivals
but siblings-and-friends
our twilight years upon us,
time together our treasure to stow
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket pageor the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this linkto stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website,Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical
Fri, May 16, 7:00
Sat, May 17, 7:00
Sun, May 18, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25 Adult, $20 Senior.
American Festival Pops Orchestra: Armed Forces Day Celebration
Sat, May 17, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Northern Virginia Ballet: Peter and the Wolf plus Paquita
Sat, May 24, 4:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35 Adult, $30 Senior.
Manassas Chorale: Princesses and Pirates
Fri, May 30, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $25, $23.
Virginia National Ballet: Spring Recital
Sat, May 31, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35.
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat May 17
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer Club
Mon May 19
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue May 20
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 21
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
4:00 pm
Board Games Club – online
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists
Spanish Club
Thu May 22
10:00 am
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Humanities Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 23
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat May 24
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 26
11:00 am
Poetry Reading Club – online
Tue May 27
10:00 am
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:30 pm
Literature, Theater, and Writing/Languages Program Planning Group Meeting
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 28
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Games Club – online
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 29
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri May 30
9:00 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Walk & Talk Club
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
OLLI E-News was created by Rod Zumbro, who served as its editor from 2005 to 2013.
Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
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: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, 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.
You should have received an email with a link allowing you to cast your ballot for the Board election between now and May 16. If you did not receive this email, contact the OLLI office at [email protected].
Board of Directors meeting via Zoom and in-person at Tallwood, Friday, May 16. All OLLI members are welcome.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, May 16; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, May 13, at 6:00.
OLLI Mason Appoints Lisa Mariam as New Executive Director
OLLI Mason is pleased to announce the appointment of seasoned nonprofit leader Lisa Mariam as its new executive director, effective June 2, 2025. Selected from over 70 applicants after an extensive national search, Mariam will step in as I step down to pursue collaboration with George Mason University’s Watershed Lit Radio Literary Podcast at UpstartCrow.org and serve as a consultant for nonprofits. I will provide transition support during Mariam’s first week to ensure a smooth handover.
Welcoming Lisa Mariam
Lisa said, “I am deeply honored and energized to join OLLI Mason as its next Executive Director. OLLI Mason is renowned for its diverse classes—from arts to investing—along with clubs, events, and travel opportunities for older adults. It fosters vibrant longevity through mental, social, and physical engagement. I’m excited to work with the Board, staff, and community partners to build on OLLI’s legacy, ensuring it remains a premier center for lifelong learning in Northern Virginia and a national model for holistic programming.”
Mariam brings extensive experience from her current role managing the Challenge America Program at the National Endowment for the Arts, administering grants to underrepresented communities. Previously, as senior director of grants and services at ArtsFairfax, she launched the Arts for Life initiative, expanded the grants program, and forged public-private partnerships. Her career began at the National Gallery of Art, organizing travel exhibits. Mariam is also an active volunteer, serving on the Fairfax Master Arts Plan Task Force, Fairfax 50+ Plan, and the Board of the McLean Community Center.
OLLI President Debbie Engleson, who led the search committee, said “Lisa’s strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and alignment with OLLI’s mission make her the ideal choice to lead us forward. Her community connections and expertise in growing membership and partnerships will guide OLLI into its next chapter.”
We are thrilled to welcome Lisa Mariam as our new Executive Director. Her leadership and passion for community engagement will advance OLLI’s commitment to lifelong learning.
The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, May 17, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Tech Update – What’s New—Presented by Rob Pegoraro
Rob Pegoraro writes about interesting problems and possibilities in computers, gadgets, apps, services, telecom, and other things that beep or blink. He’s covered such developments as the evolution of the cell phone from 1G to 5G, the fall and rise of Apple, Google’s growth from obscure Yahoo rival to verb status, and the transformation of social media from CompuServe forums to Facebook’s billions of users. Pegoraro has met most of the founders of the internet and once received a single-word email reply from Steve Jobs.
A D.C.-based journalist, Rob Pegoraro was the Washington Post personal-tech columnist from 1999 to 2011. He has contributed to USA Today, Discovery News, PCMag, Boing Boing, Ars Technica, and other publications. Incessant interlocutor on Twitter, occasional radio/TV/podcast guest. Also: dad, husband, cook, gardener, cyclist, etc.
Google Mail Web Interface—Presented by Geof Goodrum
Geof Goodrum will provide a live tour of the Google Mail (Gmail) web interface and the many settings and features available to make managing your email easier, including how to create and use labels, filters, and templates.
Geof is a retired U.S. government scientist and technology enthusiast who has been active in computer user groups since 1984. He has been a user and advocate of the GNU (GNU’s Not Unix)/Linux operating system and open source software since 1994 with professional experience as a programmer, system administrator, network administrator, data engineer, system engineer and system architect. Geof also enjoys hiking and completed a thru hike of the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail in 2018.
See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 and are now due for 2025 (and 2024, if you didn’t get around to paying earlier!)—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment. To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45, please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 340191 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 8681 36 20 720 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) conducts a casual, drop-in conversation on Zoom every second week on Wednesday at 4:00. Each session is on a different topic.
The topic for Team Bloch's Wednesday afternoon chat on May 14 is "Book Recommendations." This is a popular and oft-repeated topic that everyone seems to enjoy discussing and sharing suggestions. What book(s) have you read in the last six months that you would recommend to others and why?
You may listen in as a lurker or add to the discussion—it's up to you—but we encourage you to voice your thoughts; that way we all benefit and learn from each other.
The zoom link is always found in the Daily Schedule on the relevant morning. Log on and join us on May 14 or any future session.
If I were to fill an hourglass
I would gather the sands
from all the beaches
I have walked at dawn.
Windblown through my hair
nestled between my toes
captured in seashell treasures
or folded within the wet hem
of a child’s pants.
And these sands
would mark my time
until they dwindle
to a single grain.
Word has reached OLLI that a longtime and highly regarded OLLI member, Betty Smith, has died in Colorado. Betty joined OLLI in 2010 and was an active participant in the literature program. As a retired newspaper and book editor, she was a sterling resource for us in questions of grammar, syntax, and nuances of tone. She moderated a memoir class for OLLI for many years, and edited OLLI Ink, our annual literary journal, until 2019. Betty moved to Colorado in 2023 to be near one of her two daughters and grandchildren. She died on September 6, 2024.
Remembrances:
"Always honest, ever modest, an accomplished poet and editor, Betty helped many with their writing. I was lucky enough to be one of them. I miss her mightily.” Ed Sadtler
“Betty was a cherished companion in the wise reading of ancient works of Greek literature.” Donna Osthaus
“Betty was a stalwart part of the Poetry Workshop and we remember her well: her keen eye for nature, her take on Middle English language, her sense of humor, and her firm sense of what was right.” Jan Bohall
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket pageor the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this linkto stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website,Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: The Lightning Thief –
The Percy Jackson Musical
Fri, May 9, 7:00
Sat, May 10, 7:00
Sun, May 11, 2:00
Fri, May 16, 7:00
Sat, May 17, 7:00
Sun, May 18, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25 Adult, $20 Senior.
Manassas Ballet Theatre: The Sleeping Beauty
Fri, May 9, 7:30
Sat, May 10, 3:00 & 7:30
Sun, May 11, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $75; $65; $55; $45.
American Festival Pops Orchestra: Armed Forces Day Celebration
Sat, May 17, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Please note: OLLI meetings and clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week, but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming 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, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat May 10
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 12
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue May 13
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club
Spanish Club
Memoir and More Writers Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 15
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 16
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat May 17
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer Club
Mon May 19
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue May 20
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 21
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
4:00 pm
Board Games Club – online
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists
Spanish Club
Thu May 22
10:00 am
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Humanities Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 23
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
OLLI E-News was created by Rod Zumbro, who served as its editor from 2005 to 2013.
Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
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: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, 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.
Tom Shoop, former Fairfax County History Commissioner, discussed his book, A Place Called Ilda, on race and resilience in 19th and 20th-century Fairfax, Virginia, near Little River Turnpike and Guinea Road; April 21, Historic Blenheim
You will receive (or may have already received) an email with a link allowing you to cast your ballot for the Board election between May 2 and May 16. If you do not receive this email today, contact the OLLI office at [email protected].
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, May 9; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, May 6, at 6:00.
By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Chairperson
As spring blossoms with promises of new life, we hope your thoughts have blossomed into new ideas to share with OLLI members. If you are personally hesitant to share, perhaps you know someone whose expertise in the areas of the humanities and social sciences would benefit our OLLI members. We value your willingness to contribute your expertise.
Here are some topics for consideration:
History of the Fairfax County Courthouse
“Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope”...and other dilemmas of older adulthood
Why are there so many versions of Cinderella? Or The Psychology Behind Folk Tales
The “Rosetta Stone” of Understanding Human Behavior
Your ideas?
Here is the course proposal link and due date schedule:
The History Club will meet in person at 4:00 on Wednesday afternoon, May 7, on the west side of Parking Lot K on the George Mason campus We'll be taking a tour of the redoubt at Farr’s Cross Roads, an important Civil War site. A map of the campus that includes Lot K (west side is to the left on the map) is linked here Fairfax Campus Map.
We will meet at the Farr's Cross Roads historical marker (illustrated at the right) with experienced presenters from the Bull Run Civil War Roundtable. They will explain the historical significance of the site, and then take us on a short walk of about 100 yards on a well-groomed trail to the site of the actual redoubt.
All are welcome; you don’t have to be a History Club member to attend, enjoy the great outdoors, and what should be a very interesting walk and talk.
Theater for the Merry Month of May - You Are Invited
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers' Group
Friday, May 9 Speaker - Be Sure to Zoom in at 1 p.m. Which of these types of theater do you enjoy the most? Murder mystery dinner theater or stage productions? Magic shows or comedy shows? You get it all with the amazing Stagecoach Theatre Company of Ashburn. This gem of a theater company does it all with something for everyone from five to adult; even gives classes if you want to brush up on your theater skills.
Stagecoach Theatre's owner and co-founder Jerri Wiseman will speak via Zoom with the Theater Lovers' Group on Friday, May 9 from 1 to 2:15 p.m. All OLLI members are invited to attend this fabulous event. Just look for the Zoom link under Theater Lovers' Group in the E-News Daily Schedule.
Saturday, May 18 Attend Matinee of Jesus Christ Superstar
Andrew Lloyd Weber's first production for the professional stage, Jesus Christ Superstar, ran for about a decade in London, which made it the longest running show there before being eventually overtaken by Cats. It is loosely based on the Gospels but focuses on the psychological and personal conflicts between characters, particularly Judas's dissatisfaction with Jesus' direction. It will be performed at Workhouse Arts Center W3 Theater. Military and senior tickets are $35 and can be purchased online at workhousearts.org. Optional dinner after the show.
Editor's Note: At the author’s request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
I walk into
the corner market
a blank slate
yearning for lawsuit fruit
a prairie of cherries
a crack pot apricot
with avocado bravado
I search for unflappable apples
parts of speech peaches
say a prayer to Santa Banana
wearing a passionfruit swimsuit
wondering how did I land
on this pomegranate planet
just another glum plum
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket pageor the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this linkto stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website,Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Pre-performance discussions will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Concert Hall, 45 minutes prior to curtain. As seating is limited, a livestream will also be available on screens in the main lobby.
Virginia Opera: Loving v. Virginia
Sat, May 3, 7:30
Sun, May 4, 2:00
Pre-performance discussion
Concert Hall
Admission: $110, $70, $40.
George Mason School of Theater: 12 Angry Jurors
Fri, May 2, 8:00
Sat, May 3, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, May 4, 2:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, TheaterSpace
Admission: $20 Adult, $10 Senior.
George Mason School of Dance: Dance Innovations
Fri, May 2, 2:00 and 7:00
Sat, May 3, 7:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20 Adult, $12 Senior.
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert: Concerto Competition Winners
Mon, May 5, 8:00
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Admission: $15 Adult, $10 Senior.
School of Dance: May Studio Series
Tue, May 6, 6:00 and 8:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A301, Dance Performance Studio
Admission: $17.
School of Music Honors Recital 2025
Sat, May 10, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Fantasies
Sat, May 3, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.
ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical
Fri, May 9, 7:00
Sat, May 10, 7:00
Sun, May 11, 2:00
Fri, May 16, 7:00
Sat, May 17, 7:00
Sun, May 18, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25 Adult, $20 Senior.
Manassas Ballet Theatre: The Sleeping Beauty
Fri, May 9, 7:30
Sat, May 10, 3:00 and 7:30
Sun, May 11, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $75; $65; $55; $45.
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat May 3
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 5
9:30 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue May 6
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Games Club – online
Bridge Club
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu May 8
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 9
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
2:30 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Dance Club
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Theater Lovers’ Group
Classic Literature Club – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
Sat May 10
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 12
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue May 13
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club
Spanish Club
Memoir and More Writers Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 15
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 16
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
OLLI E-News was created by Rod Zumbro, who served as its editor from 2005 to 2013.
Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
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: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, 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.
Note: Event times for May 2 have changed; the Annual Business Meeting will now be from 11:00-12:00, and the Tallwood Garden Party and Picnic will now be from 12:30–2:30
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, May 2; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, April 29, at 6:00.
The History Club will meet via Zoom on Wednesday, May 7, at 4:00. Bull Run Civil War Roundtable members Jim Lewis and Brian McEnany will repeat the "Beyond the Battlefield" lecture that they have previously presented to OLLI classes.
The Tallwood Book Club meets on Zoom on the second Friday of each month from 2:30 to 4:00.
Books to be discussed at upcoming meetings are as follows:
May Gilead by Marilynne Robinson;
June Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel;
July River of the Gods by Candice Millard.
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A., Mason Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
Mason’s Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music is hosting several jazz concerts this spring, and we hope OLLI members will attend and enjoy them. Listed below are two upcoming events at the end of April. Please join us!
Mason Jazz Ensemble at Blues Alley: Tuesday, Apr 29, 7:00
Washington DC historic Jazz club, Blues Alley
Tickets: $27 plus $7 fee; for more details, click this link.
The Mason Jazz Ensemble, directed by Jim Carroll, performs at Blues Alley as part of the Big Band Jam educational week!
International Jazz Day: Wednesday, Apr 30, 8:00
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Tickets: $19 each; click this link.
Share the vibrancy and vitality of jazz music with Mason Jazz students and faculty on April 30! George Mason University, Jazz Studies, celebrates International Jazz Day with performances by the Mason Jazz Ensemble (Jim Carroll) and The Jazz Workshop (John Kocur).
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
As there was a wide-spread Zoom outage during our previous Wednesday Conversations with Team Bloch, we are repeating the topic for our next session on April 30.
Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) conducts a casual, drop-in conversation on Zoom every second week on Wednesday's at 4:00. Each session is on a different topic.
The topic for Team Bloch's Wednesday afternoon chat on April 30 is "What are Your Fears?" This could be a very personal subject and may differ for everyone; on the other hand, there are certain universal fears we probably all encounter as we age. Team Bloch suggests a few: running out of money, being alone, losing independence, just to start the discussion ball rolling. A related topic (possibly more productive) is "How Do You Face Your Fears?" We all have different ways of coping with difficulty—and each situation likely requires a different approach.
You may listen in as a lurker or add to the discussion – up to you – but we encourage you to voice your thoughts; that way we all benefit and learn from each other.
The zoom link is always found in the Daily Schedule on the relevant morning. Log on and join us on April 30 or any future session.
Outside my window the towering maple tree
Holds a profusion of gold leaves –
The final step
Before releasing them
And leaving behind
Naked limbs
Like brown bones.
But now, the magnificent glowing leaves
Thrash wildly in the warm, smoky wind --
Without pause --
Like dancers in a final frenzy
Of abandon.
Shutting my eyes,
I raise my hands to join this celebration
And dissolve into roiling waves of an unseen ocean;
The energy of the atmosphere
Expressed in an unexpected October occurrence.
I am a child again
In instinctive, resplendent harmony
With raging nature.
–Nancy Coffey
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see the CFA ticket page link below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see theCFA ticket pageor theHylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up atthis link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a websiteMason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall Pre-performance discussions will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Concert Hall, 45 minutes prior to curtain. As seating is limited, a livestream will also be available on screens in the main lobby.
Virginia Opera: Loving v. Virginia
Sat, May 3, 7:30
Sun, May 4, 2:00
Pre-performance discussion
Concert Hall
Admission: $110, $70, $40.
George Mason School of Theater: 12 Angry Jurors
Thu, May 1, 8:00
Fri, May 2, 8:00
Sat, May 3, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, May 4, 2:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, TheaterSpace
Admission: $20 Adult, $10 Senior.
George Mason School of Dance: Dance Innovations
Fri, May 2, 2:00 and 7:00
Sat, May 3, 7:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20 Adult, $12 Senior.
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert: Concerto Competition Winners
Mon, May 5, 8:00
Center for the Arts, Concert Hall
Admission: $15 Adult, $10 Senior.
Hylton Performing Arts Center 15th Anniversary Gala
Sat, Apr 26, 6:00
Hylton Performing Arts Center Admission: Individual Tickets $350 ($210 Benefit).
For more HyltonCenter.org/galas information, Click here.
Virginia National Ballet: Bohemian Rhapsody
Sun, Apr 27, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50.
International Jazz Day 2025
Wed, Apr 30, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $15 Adult, $10 Senior.
Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Fantasies
Sat, May 3, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Apr 26
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 28
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Apr 29
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club
Memoir and More Writers Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch
Thu May 1
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats – online
Fri May 2
11:00 am
12:00 noon
12:30 pm
Annual Business Meeting (Note Time)
Chair Yoga and More – online
Garden Party & Picnic
Sat May 3
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 5
9:30 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue May 6
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Games Club – online
Bridge Club
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu May 8
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 9
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
2:30 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Dance Club
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Theater Lovers’ Group
Classic Literature Club – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
OLLI E-News was created by Rod Zumbro, who served as its editor from 2005 to 2013.
Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
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: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, 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’s Walk & Talk Club will be participating in the Fairfax Fourth of July Parade for the third year in a row, as part of the George Mason University contingent, and we’d love to have you join us.
Sara “Sally” Noblett Heyer (formerly Sara Carey Noblett), OLLI member since 2020, passed away peacefully in Fairfax, Virginia, on May 22, 2025, after complications from a fall and recovery. Her husband of almost 61 years, Robert “Bob” Heyer, and sons John Heyer, Robin “Rob” Heyer, David Heyer, her sister Molly Stephens, and their families were tending her recovery process to the end. Sally was a most faithful, kind, and loving wife and “Mom” for all as we grew up, supporting many activities.
Something New! Murder by the Numbers
Something Old: The Piano Lesson
ed from over 70 applicants after an extensive national search, Mariam will step in as I step down to pursue collaboration with George Mason University’s Watershed Lit Radio Literary Podcast at 
discussing and sharing suggestions. What book(s) have you read in the last six months that you would recommend to others and why?
We will meet at the Farr's Cross Roads historical marker (illustrated at the right) with experienced presenters from the Bull Run Civil War Roundtable. They will explain the historical significance of the site, and then take us on a short walk of about 100 yards on a well-groomed trail to the site of the actual redoubt. 
Saturday, May 18 Attend Matinee of Jesus Christ Superstar
