Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Dennis Vanlangen

ENews November 14, 2025

by

OLLI E-News November 14
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
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OLLI Annual Town Hall Meeting, Tallwood, November 7
 

November 14, 2025


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

 

  • Complete the fall term survey to offer OLLI your suggestions on how to improve your membership experience.

  • Look for the OLLI winter catalog in the mail. All offerings are now ‘Add to Cart;’ you no longer need to prioritize courses. Register early to increase your chances for enrollment.

  • The OLLI Mason office and campus will be closed November 24th-28th.

  • Register by today (November 14) on the member portal for the annual OLLI holiday party, which will be at the Country Club of Fairfax on December 2, 11:30-2:30; cost is $50.

  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, November 28; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, November 25, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director
 

Thanksgiving Message

 

By Lisa Mariam, Executive Director


I’m deeply grateful to be part of OLLI Mason. Each day brings a chance to see curiosity turn into conversation and ideas into understanding. It is a privilege to witness members coming together around
something as meaningful as learning. Whether joining a class or club, attending an event, or exploring a recorded class in the video library, each opportunity is a reminder of what can happen when we learn together.

With warmest wishes for Thanksgiving,
Lisa
 

Holiday Party Reminder

 

By Debbie Engleson, OLLI President


Oh dear – did you forget to make your reservation for the Holiday Party? It’s the biggest event of the year! You still have time – but not much. The event is December 2nd (a Tuesday this year) at 11:30 at the Country Club of Fairfax. We need your reservation by Friday, November 14th.

In addition to seeing your friends and having a delicious lunch, you will be treated to entertainment provided by the Jazz Group from George Mason. To register for the event, log in to your member portal and type 1204F Annual Holiday Party in the search engine. When you register, you will be asked to choose your entrée and pay the $50 lunch fee.

The lunch entrée options are chicken piccata, three-cheese ravioli with tomato basil cream sauce, or Thai chopped chicken salad. All meals include beverage and dessert, and a cash bar will be available. And don’t forget to bring a friend. Who knows, you or your guest may be one of the lucky ones to win one of the three door prizes.






What should your medication list include? EVERYTHING. Prescription medications, nonprescription/Over the Counter (OTC) medications, herbals, supplements, vitamins. The list should include the name, the dose, and the frequency. Many of these can interact with each other as well as your prescriptions. You can check out all interactions at Drug Interaction List - Drugs.com.
From the Healthcare Advisory Workgroup

Holiday Sing-Along on December 8

 

By Linda Harber, Friends of Music at Mason President


This year’s Holiday Singing for Fun event is December 8, from 10:00-noon, in TA-1. There will be song sheets and piano accompaniment. We welcome all interested OLLI members to join us for this fun celebration of the holiday season. No registration is required. The accompanying lovely poster was made by Linda Gordon.

Plan to join us for a fun morning sing-along!

Join the Theater Lovers for a Side-Splitting Class and to Attend a Poignant Play


 

By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group


You all are invited ...
The place to be this coming Tuesday, November 18 from 11:50 am to 1:15 pm is TA-1 at Tallwood. Be prepared to be wowed. All OLLI members are invited to either be there in person or tune in via Zoom. What's the big draw? Washington's Only Original Political Satirical Musical Comedy Revue, also known as Hexagon for these 70 side-splitting years now. Hexagon members will perform some numbers and show clips of their past (and uproariously hilarious) performances.

"I've never been to anything like this before and I can't wait until the next one," said a recent fan.
 
Hexagon will present the next one – Lollapalosers – during the month of April in 2026, when Theater Lovers Group plans to attend a matinee. The show will be in keeping with their mission which is "to uplift lives and strengthen our community by harnessing the power of theater." 

Find the link in OLLI's Daily Schedule or, better yet, come early, grab a cup of coffee, meet the presenters and your fellow theater lovers.

Why people go to the theater ...
"For my money, Birthday Candles is precisely why people go to the theater," says the Chicago Tribune. Birthday Candles is a poignant and funny play that takes the audience through the highlights, heartbreaks, and extraordinary moments that make up one women's ordinary life. Theater Lovers will attend the 2 pm matinee on Saturday, December 6, at 1stStage with optional lunch before the show. 1stStage has set aside 15 tickets for $25 each for us. Phone them at 703-854-1856 and tell them you are with OLLI to get your reduced-price ticket. Email Norma at [email protected] to let her know you have purchased a ticket. Prices go up when the fifteen $25 tickets are sold out.

Editor's Note: At the author's request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.

Save the Date: Literature, Language, Theater,
and Writing Program Planning Group to Meet 



By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Theater and
Writing/Languages Program Planning Group Co-Chair

Date: Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Time: 10:00
What: Literature, Language, Theater (LLT), and Writing Program
Planning Group Meeting
Via Zoom

Whether you enjoy the classics or spy novels, sci-fi, or memoir, want to learn a language, explore playwrights and the world of theater, or hone your writing skills, we need your thoughts and ideas. 

Please join us for our quarterly program planning group meeting for literature, theater, writing and language program planning on Tuesday, December 9 at 10:00, via Zoom.

We will be reviewing past terms and looking forward to planning summer 2026 and beyond. All OLLI members can contribute to the excellent programming offered to our membership. Bring ideas for literature, theater, writing, or language programs, and possible instructor resources for this popular programming area. And, of course, if you or anyone you know would like to join our program planning group, here is your opportunity to see the process in action. Spread the word. See you on December 9.

The Zoom link will be published in the November 28 OLLI-E-News and available in the December 9 OLLI Daily Schedule.

If you would like to be added to our LLT mailing list for a reminder, or have any questions please email Pat Bangs at: [email protected]. Thank you

French Conversation Club

 

By Doris Bloch, French Conversation Club Coordinator

 
A few weeks ago, there was an article in the OLLI E-News about forming a French Conversation Club. Seven OLLI members expressed interest initially. If you missed that article, please know that all OLLI members are welcome to become involved in such a club. Feel free to send a message telling us of your interest to [email protected] and get on the e-mail list.

The next step is to hold an organizational meeting, and that will be held on Thursday, November 20 on Zoom, at 11:00. Check the Daily Schedule for the link. Potential topics are level of interest, suggested level of proficiency, timing of club meetings, meeting format, and any other subjects that come to mind. The meeting's spoken language will be English.

Wednesday Team Bloch Conversation Topic for November 19

By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch,
Co-Moderators
The twice a month Wednesday Team Bloch conversation at OLLI is coming up on
November 19 and the topic will be "Nostalgia."

During our last conversation, there was a request to devote the next session to discussion of popular old-time radio programs, old TV shows, old movies, old songs, etc. It also was observed that some of these are no longer "sanctioned" in that they showcase non-politically correct or controversial ideas or stances. Example: the show "Amos and Andy."

While the Wednesday Conversation moderators discourage political discussion or other inflammatory topics, our goal will be to talk about the nostalgia that these old-fashioned works arouse without debating their merits.

The Wednesday Conversation is held on the first and third Wednesday afternoon of every month at 4:00 on Zoom. No registration is possible; it is held strictly on a drop-in basis. All are welcome to join in. The Zoom link will be found in the OLLI Daily Schedule of November 19 (note that it is the same link as the 24/7 Chat Line.)
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Pure Memoir

I remember me
ten
sitting in splintered, graffitied booths
at the Kustard Kitchen
sipping Pepsi
fountain Pepsi.
One day, feeling brave
I asked the waitress if she could squirt
One tiny squirt of cherry syrup
into my glass, first
then add Pepsi and mix.
She lit up like Peter Pan’s pixie
Tinkerbell
smiled, and said, well, yes, she would.
Presto! A cherry Pepsi.
It tasted far better than plain Pepsi to me.
Impressed with my cleverness
my ingenuity
I shared the idea with friends.
Years later, Pepsi bottled it.
Royalties are yet to roll in.

–Ed Sadtler

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances November 15 through December 1


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer

 
The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) has several web sites of performances, talks etc. For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468.

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 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.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

La Santa Cecilia
Sat, Nov 15, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.
 
Mariza
Sun, Nov 16, 7:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $71, $60, $45.

Virginia Opera: Cinderella
Sat, Nov 22, 7:30
Sun, Nov 23, 2:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the
performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $116, $76, $45.

Chanticleer
Sat, Nov 29, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $71, $60, $45.
Fairfax Campus Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)
 
How We See What They Saw
A Reading Room of Photobooks by Women
Sep 15–Nov 21
Fenwick Gallery

OFFERINGS TO THE POTOMAC
ACKNOWLEDGING INDIGENOUS PLACE
February 24 - May 15, 2026
Buchanan Hall Atrium Gallery, Manassas Campus
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Jazz4Justice
Fri, Nov 14, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $24 Adult, $19 Senior.

Mason Jazz Monday: Braddock Road Brass Band
Mon, Nov 17, 12:30
Performing Arts Building (PAB) A327C
Admission: Free.

Brass & Wind Chamber Concert
Mon, Nov 17, 8:00
Harris Theater
Admission: Free.

George Mason School of Theater: Light Up The Sky
Thu, Nov 20, 7:30
Fri, Nov 21, 7:30
Sat, Nov 22, 2:00 and 7:30
Sun, Nov 23, 2:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, TheaterSpace
Admission: $24 Adult, $14 Senior.

Dr. Balakerskaia Studio Recital
Sat, Nov 22, 7:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, 3001, Rehearsal Room
Admission: Free.

String Chamber Concert
Sun, Nov 23, 7:00
Harris Theater
Admission: Free.

Piano Chamber Ensemble Concert
Mon, Dec 1, 6:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A302
Admission: Free.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

DanceWorks Fall Semester Showcase: Heaven and Earth
Sat, Nov 15, 5:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: Free.

ARTfactory’s Actor’s Theatre: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Musical
Fri, Nov 21, 7:00
Sat, Nov 22, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Nov 23, 2:00
Fri, Nov 28, 2:00 and 7:00
Sat, Nov 29, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Nov 30, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35 Adult, $30 Senior.

Virginia National Ballet: The Nutcracker
Fri, Nov 28, 2:00 and 6:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $65; $60; $55; $50; $45; $40.

Academy of Russian Ballet and Northern Virginia
Ballet: The Nutcracker
Sat, Nov. 29, 2:00 and 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50 Adult, $40 Senior.

Canadian Brass
Sun, Nov 30, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the
performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $71, $60, $45.

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

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Meetings & Clubs

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).

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.

 
Sat Nov 15
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Nov 17
 
 		  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 Nov 18
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Nov 19
 
 
 
 
 
 		 10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversations with Team Bloch – online
Thu Nov 20
 
 		 11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Nov 21
 
 
 		  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 Nov 22 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Nov 24
 		  9:30 am
 4:00 pm		 What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Nov 25
 
 		  2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Nov 26
 
 		 12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Book Club – online
Thu Nov 27  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Nov 28
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon		 Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation – online
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Nov 29 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

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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: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: Deborah Kruesi

Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Chitra Mohla, 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.

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ENews November 7, 2025

by

OLLI E-News November 7. 2025
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Mason History Professor Emeritus Peter R. Henriques
provided a fascinating analysis of
George Washington’s decision to attend
the Constitutional Convention of 1787.

November 7, 2025


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Please complete the fall term survey to offer OLLI your suggestions on how to improve your membership experience.
  • Register on the member portal by November 13 to attend the OLLI holiday party at Country Club of Fairfax on December 2, 11:30-2:30; cost is $50.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, November 14; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, November 11, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director

Concert Discounts for OLLI Mason Members


By Lisa Mariam, Executive Director


OLLI Mason has a new partnership with the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra. They have offered us a discount for their concerts. We are advertising in their program and also working a table at an upcoming concert. The full schedule is included in a brochure at this link. Use the code OLLI to obtain the discount (15% off tickets).

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Volunteer Spotlight: Margie Wildblood


By Lisa Mariam, Executive Director


Margie Wildblood has a generous spirit of giving. Since 2022, Margie has been the instructor for the Writers Workshop as well as coordinator for the Poetry Writing Club and the Memoir-and-More Writing Group.

She is always there to support members, helping them with their writing projects and providing resources. Her enthusiasm for group activities is uplifting and generates a spirit of camaraderie; members feel supported and motivated to attend all the sessions.

Margie has published a memoir with the support of the Writer’s Workshop, Memoir and More Writing Group, and Poetry Workshop.

A big thank you to Margie for her leadership of OLLI Mason’s writing programs!

If you’d like to nominate an OLLI volunteer to be highlighted in the E-News, please use the form available at this link (includes attaching a photo if possible).

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Computer Club
3rd Saturday, November 15
Recipe Management Software
Clock App Custom Alarm Tones

By Paul Howard, OPCUG Program Chair


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, November 15, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
 
Recipe Management Software—Presented by Leti Labell
Recipe management software allows centralized recipe storage and organization, and facilitates meal planning and grocery list generation. It will also allow the discovery of new recipes and the customization of existing recipes.

This presentation compares various recipe management applications, discussing the features of each and recommending the best. How to choose a recipe manager will be discussed, as well as how to find and evaluate recipes.

Leti Labell is a member of both OPCUG and PATACS, with a lifelong love of computers. She has an MS in computer science and is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and a Project Management Professional (PMP). However, even more than computers, Leti loves cooking and collecting cookbooks and recipes.
 
Learn in 30: Clock App Custom Alarm Tones—Presented by John Krout
This presentation covers Samsung Clock, Google Clock, and iPhone Clock. The Samsung Clock app is unique because it can read aloud the alarm name. I think it doesn't do a great job of that. The artificial voice sounds a bit ragged, so I also assign my artificial voice recordings of alarm names in that app because those sound better.

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 the national Association of Personal Computer User Groups (APCUG) Wednesday Workshops and Saturday Safaris, and contributes articles to the APCUG library of shared newsletter content.
 
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 https://olligmu-org.zoom.us/j/88388435350?pwd=hfaEFO7vfkvhVspokJXKnzpia7uTOh.1 to join the meeting and use passcode 804997. (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 883 8843 5350 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.

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Join the Theater Lovers to see Upcoming Iconic Masterpieces


By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers' Group


Theater Without Words
Imagine seeing a stage play performed totally without words - and loving it. On Saturday, November 15 at its 1:30 p.m. matinee, Synetic Theatre will perform the classic Frankenstein without words, just physicality. You will spend the one and a half hours being gob smacked at their performances, wondering How do they do that? We'll first go to Ruthie's All Day for an optional lunch, then to the Thomas Jefferson Theatre at 125 Old Glebe Road in Arlington for the show. Purchase your tickets - $35 to $65 - online at synetictheater.org. Let Norma know if you will be doing lunch and/or theater.
 
Iconic Musical
Who can resist tapping their toes and singing along to If I Were a Rich Man? Signature Theater will be staging the iconic musical Fiddler on the Roof in the round. We will go to the 2 p.m. matinee performance on Sunday, November 23. Go to sigtheatre.org to purchase your ticket and select your seat. We will have an optional lunch at Our Mom Eugenia in Shirlington. Let Norma know that you will be joining us.
 






Celebrate our 250th Anniversary
The Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) will be going to the National Theatre in DC on Sunday, June 28 at 2 p.m. to see Suffs. This Broadway hit is a must see. It is the wrenching story of the suffragettes told in a most memorable, mesmerizing, musical way. Orchestra seats will be about $135. If interested in going with TLG, I need to know before November 30 before single tickets go on sale.  If interested, please email me ASAP so that I can place the ticket order. Email me at njreck @cs.com.

Editor's Note: At the author's request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Eureka Moment
 
Life is chock full of distracting demands.
 
But there are times
when the mind seeks a new paradigm -- 
intuitively, almost autonomously.
 
The brain feasts on a massive buffet
of ideas and impressions in the maelstrom
of one’s experience, sifts through it
and finds new connections.
 
Billions of neurons in the cerebral cortex
that make us who we are, across time,
grapple to synthesize
an incalculable number of thoughts, ideas, impressions.
Like egg and sperm
they are driven
to seek a cohesion, a collusion, catharsis,
until they find
a seminal thought.
 
The conception presents a clear, yet jarring conclusion
to the conscious mind –
a conclusion that evokes ambivalence.
 
The heart is quiet,
resistant,
questioning, then pensive,  
until, in humility,
mellowed by a dash of humor and a splash of irony,
one embraces what is -- 
or feels like --
a personal truth.   
 
                              – Nancy Coffey

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George Mason Jazz - More November Concerts


By Darden Purcell, D.M.A., Mason Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice


Last week’s E-News noted several jazz concerts coming up at Mason this fall, including some that are free and open to the public. We presented information on upcoming performances, specifically Mason Jazz Vocal Night, Monday, November 10, at 8:00, and the Steel Pan Ensemble|Jazz Combos, Wednesday, November 12, at 8:00. Information on two more events appears below. Join us for these outstanding performances.

++++++++++++++++++
JAZZ 4 JUSTICE: The Latin Tinge 
Friday, November 14, 8:00 
Center for the Arts 
Tickets:  https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/jazz4justice-8482-2025
Featuring the Mason Jazz Ensemble (Director, Jim Carroll), the Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble (Director, Dr. Darden Purcell), and very special guest conductor, George Mason University President, Dr. Gregory Washington! 

Celebrate the vibrant rhythms and soulful melodies of “The Latin Tinge”—a tribute to the essential influence of Afro-Cuban, Caribbean, and South American sounds on the evolution of jazz. Enjoy an exciting evening featuring student and faculty ensembles, special guests, and dynamic arrangements that highlight the enduring connection between jazz and Latin musical traditions. Proceeds benefit Legal Services of Northern Virginia, providing legal aid to those in need, and George Mason Jazz Department educational initiatives. 

++++++++++++++++++
BRADDOCK ROAD BRASS BAND | JAZZ COMBOS 
Wednesday, November 19, 8:00 
Harris Theatre 
Free and Open to the Public 
The Braddock Road Brass Band (directed by Graham Breedlove) and Jazz Combos (directed by Dr. Shawn Purcell) perform their fall concert! Attendees will enjoy music from Chuck Mangione, Irving Berlin, Charlie Parker, Rodgers and Hart, Eddie Harris, Fats Domino, and Dirty Dozen Brass Band!

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances November 7 through November 17


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


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 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.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

360 ALLSTARS
Sat, Nov 8, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.

Artists in Conversation: La Santa Cecilia
Thu, Nov 13, 7:00
Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax
Admission: Free, registration required at https://cloud.venues.cvpa.gmu.edu/LaSantaCecilia?_gl=1*1253bnw*_ga*MTgzNzQyMDYwLjE3NjIwOTg3MjQ.*_ga_HHWWM9D99E*czE3NjIwOTg3MjQkbzEkZzEkdDE3NjIwOTg3NzgkajYkbDAkaDQ5OTE5NjgzMg.
 
La Santa Cecilia
Sat, Nov 15, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.
 
Mariza
Sun, Nov 16, 7:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $71, $60, $45.
Fairfax Campus Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)
 
Before the Americas
Aug 25–Nov 15
Gillespie Gallery, Art and Design Building, Fairfax, VA

How We See What They Saw
A Reading Room of Photobooks by Women
Sep 15–Nov 21
Fenwick Gallery
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)
 
George Mason School of Dance: New Dances 2025
Fri, Nov 7, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $30 Adult, $19 Senior.
 
Percussion Ensemble Concert
Sun, Nov 9, 1:00
Performing Arts Building (PAB) 3001
Admission: Free.
 
Mason Jazz Vocal Night Fall 2025
Mon, Nov 10, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.
 
Jazz Combos and Steel Pan Ensemble Concert
Wed, Nov 12, 8:00
Harris Theater
Admission: Free.
 
Groove Theory A Capella Concert
Thu, Nov 13, 8:00
Performing Arts Building (PAB) 3001
Admission: Free.
 
Jazz4Justice
Fri, Nov 14, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $24 Adult, $19 Senior.
 
Mason Jazz Monday: Braddock Road Brass Band
Mon, Nov 17, 12:30
Performing Arts Building (PAB) A327C
Admission: Free.
 
Brass & Wind Chamber Concert
Mon, Nov 17, 8:00
Harris Theater
Admission: Free.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical
Sat, Nov 8, 11:00 and 2:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $24.
 
The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys
Sat, Nov 8, 5:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35.
 
The U.S. Army Band
Sun, Nov 9, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: Free.
 
DanceWorks Fall Semester Showcase: Heaven and Earth
Sat, Nov 15, 5:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: Free.
 

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

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Meetings & Clubs

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).

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 Nov 8 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Nov 10
 		  9:30 am
 4:00 pm		 What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Nov 11
 		  2:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Nov 12
 
 
 
 
 
 		 11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Book Club – online
Conversations with Team Bloch – online
Thu Nov 13
 
 
 		 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 Club – online
Fri Nov 14
 
 
 
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
Sat Nov 15
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Nov 17
 
 		  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 Nov 18
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Nov 19
 
 
 
 
 
 		 10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversations with Team Bloch – online
Thu Nov 20
 
 		 11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Nov 21
 
 
 		  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 Nov 22 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

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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: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry

Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Chitra Mohla, 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.

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ENews October 31, 2025

by

OLLI E-News October 31, 2025
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Northern Virginia Photo Artist Eva Lanyi Addressed Wildlife Photography at OLLI Photography Club Meeting, October 10

October 31, 2025


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents
Alerts & Notices
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, November 7; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, November 4, at 6:00.
Holiday Luncheon Menu Correction!


 By Marilyn Harriman, Diversions Chair



Last Friday’s E-News Article about our December 2 annual holiday luncheon party contained an incorrect list of lunch entrée offerings. The correct lunch entrée options are chicken piccata, three-cheese ravioli with tomato basil cream sauce, or Thai chopped chicken salad. All meals include beverage and dessert, and a cash bar will be available.

To register for the event, log in to your member portal and type in 1204F Annual Holiday Party in the search engine. When you register, you will be asked to choose your entrée and pay the $50 lunch fee.
Kudos and Thanks, Volunteers and Staff, for a Top-Notch Party!


 By Marilyn Harriman, Diversions Chair



Dozens of OLLI members came out for our second annual Oktoberfest on October 10. We enjoyed eating bratwurst, pretzels, potato salad, and gherkins as we tapped our toes to Fairfax’s Blaskapelle Alte Kameraden oompah band.



The weather cooperated with sunshine and mild temperatures, so we were able to take advantage of OLLI’s picnic tables. Sandra Oliver and Jean Pierre Manley won our Oktoberfest Trivia contest. Congratulations! They each received a gift certificate to the Swiss Bakery and Café.

This kind of event doesn’t just happen, and I want to thank all who made it possible. Our dedicated Diversions Team of volunteers provided delicious side dishes and desserts, set up the buffet table, and stayed after the party to clean up. A special thanks goes to Elaine Leonard, Julia Adams, Janet Silverberg, Gay Alper, Doris Bloch, Toni Acton, and Phyllis Krochmal.

OLLI staff members Meg Przybylski and Mike Emery helped long before the party started. Meg escorted me through the exotic and unique Restaurant Depot Wholesale Grocery Store for our foodstuffs, lugged extra seating from the hinterland to the breezeway, helped put up decorations early Friday morning, and made sure iced tea and cold water were plentiful. Mike set up the band’s electrical wiring needs and did the needed heavy table and chair lifting.

The Diversions Team and OLLI staff were happy to see so many smiling OLLI members, and we look forward to hosting Oktoberfest again next fall.
OLLI Senior Olympians


 By Debby Mossburg, OLLI Member



Did you know that OLLI Mason boasts several Senior Olympic contenders and even some gold and silver medalists? This fall, members competed and walked away with golden memories, if not golden mementos. What? Were you not aware of the Senior Olympic Games held this fall?

Every autumn, adults aged 50 or better across Northern Virginia compete in the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics (NVSO). This year, more than 1,200 contestants competed in 92 different events over 17 days at a handful of venues, according to the NVSO website. Not only do OLLI members compete, but our own Photography Club has for years captured photos of the events. You can see some of the best from this year here: https://nvsoseniorolympics.smugmug.com/2025-Gallery-Best-Overall-Photographs. 

OLLI members and staff competed in many different events. Mike Emery, Tallwood site assistant, may be our most accomplished athlete, receiving a gold medal in the running long jump and silver medals in the 60-meter dash and javelin events. Member Jayne Hart also has bragging rights, having competed in Table Tennis singles and doubles many times in past years. (see photo)



My own experience this September was not quite as successful, but still a great deal of fun. I competed in the rigorous sport of Tournament Mah Jongg, winning my first game and going on to lose the remainder of the 12-game marathon, determined to better my record next year. Who knew Mah Jongg would be an Olympic event? It’s one of many unconventional competitions that join traditional athletic contests that are part of NVSO. Check out their website at https://nvso.us/ to find out if your sport, hobby or passion is included and consider joining the games next fall. Play on!

History Club Meeting on November 5



 By Doug Snoeyenbos, History Club Coordinator



The History Club will meet via Zoom on Wednesday, November 5, at 4:00. Our presenter will be David Coffman, and his presentation will be titled “Not with a Bang But a Whimper: Napoleon Bonaparte and the End of the French Revolution.”  

Beginning in 1789, the people of France initiated a democratic political revolution, abolished their monarchy and executed their king, and fought fiercely and effectively to defend their new republic against the military assaults of other European monarchies. However, within a few years they readily embraced the establishment of a new monarchy under Napoleon Bonaparte, who became Emperor of France. How and why did this happen, and what lessons can we learn for the present day?

David Coffman received a B.A. from Southern Methodist University, where he was named to Phi Beta Kappa, and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. He retired in 2022 after 50 years of federal service, the last 16 of those he served as an administrative law judge for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. He has been fascinated by Napoleon all his life and has recently taught a 10-week course at the OLLI at American University on the rise and fall of Napoleon. 
 
Volunteer Spotlight: Marilyn Harriman


 By Lisa Mariam, Executive Director  



If you’ve been on a walk with the Walk and Talk Club, attended an OLLI event such as the Oktoberfest or Game Day Bash (just two of over 25 special events she’s organized), or signed up for one of the many classes she’s taught, you know Marilyn Harriman goes the extra mile in all she does. OLLI Diversions are impeccably planned and executed, and Marilyn delivers fascinating presentations. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and good nature always lead to a fun get-together.

Since joining OLLI Mason in 2017, Marilyn has served on the Board of Directors, the Nominating Committee, currently chairs the Diversions Committee, and co-chairs the Walk and Talk Club. Marilyn’s area of expertise is literature, and she has taught classes as wide ranging as The Poetry of Edgar Allen Poe, Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood, and Huckleberry Finn, to name just a few.

Next time you see Marilyn, please let her know how much you appreciate all she’s done for OLLI Mason!

If you’d like to nominate an OLLI volunteer to be highlighted in the E-News, please email [email protected] and if possible attach a photo.
Wednesday Team Bloch Conversation Topic for Nov 5
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch,
Co-Moderators
The twice a month Wednesday Team Bloch conversation at OLLI is coming up on November 5 and the topic will be "If someone handed you $1,000, what good deed or cause would you support with it?"

The Washington Post recently ran an article on Happiness and Purpose. Researchers  gave subjects $400 each and asked them to spend it in a way that aided their communities. They found that the subjects were happier than if they had spent the money on themselves. So, the first premise to address is whether you believe that this is a valid conclusion. The accompanying discussion might then delve into what you yourself might do with such a windfall. We upped it to a $1,000 give-away—why not make it more generous, as the donation is not coming from our personal Team Bloch wallets? This may prove to be a lively discussion!

The Wednesday Conversation is held on the first and third Wednesday afternoon of every month at 4:00 on Zoom. No registration is possible; it is held strictly on a drop-in basis. All are welcome to join in. The Zoom link will be found in the emailed OLLI daily schedule of November 5 (Note that it is the same link as the 24/7 Chat Line.)
George Mason Jazz – Upcoming Fall 2025 Concerts


By Darden Purcell, D.M.A., Mason Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice



There are several jazz concerts coming up at Mason this fall, including some that are free and open to the public. We hope you will join us for these great concerts. Information on the first three performances, occurring in the next couple of weeks, is presented below. Information on performances later in November will be presented in a subsequent issue of E-News.

++++++++++++++++++
THE JAZZ WORKSHOP 
Wednesday, November 5, 8:00 
Harris Theatre 
Free and Open to the Public 
https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/jazz-workshop-concert-fall-2025

The Jazz Workshop, directed by John Kocur, explores the intersection of improvisation and composition in the tradition of the great dance and studio jazz bands. Enjoy rare and beautiful arrangements by jazz legends from many eras of jazz history. New original compositions by Mason students and faculty will be featured as well.

++++++++++++++++++
MASON JAZZ VOCAL NIGHT 
Monday, November 10, 8:00 
Center for the Arts 
Tickets:  https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/mason-jazz-vocal-night-fall-2025

Join Dr. Darden Purcell, the Mason Jazz Voice Studio, the DOWNBEAT award-winning Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble, and special guests, Stone Bridge High School, ENCORE Vocal Jazz Choir (director Christine Tarrant), for an evening of swinging standards and classic hits from the Great American Songbook.

++++++++++++++++++
STEEL PAN ENSEMBLE | JAZZ COMBOS 
Wednesday, November 12, 8:00 
Harris Theatre 
Free and Open to the Public 

The Mason Steel Pan Ensemble (directed by Victor Provost) and Jazz Combos (directed by Wade Beach) perform their fall concert. Attendees will enjoy music from Stevie Wonder, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and Glen Miller!





 
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Berry Picking 

Alice musters her troops
They march to the blackberry patch
She carries her wicker basket piled with pots
They anticipate the pies and jam their mother will make
Alice patrols the line gathering the dark fat berries
Lest her small force consume all their collected bounty
Alice is also alert for hungry bears
Decades later the children remember
The joy of berry picking
Under the deep blue
 Oregon sky

                                             –Carolyn F. Wyatt

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Obituary: William Hunt

Some long-term members may remember William (Bill) Hunt, an OLLI stalwart who joined our organization in 2002 and served as the Chair of OLLI's Art & Music Program Planning Group for several years. He was an employee of the Federal Aviation Agency for 30+ years prior to coming to OLLI. Bill also served as chair of the Fairfax City Commission on the Arts and was a longtime companion to Doris Bloch. 

Bill recently passed away at the age of 90 and his family has scheduled a wake and funeral service on Saturday, November 8th at the Demaine Funeral Home, 10565 Main Street, Fairfax City. The wake will be held from 12:00-3:00 and the service at 3:00.

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances October 31 through November 10


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


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.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Limón Dance Company
Sat, Nov 1, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $65, $56, $41.

Mason Community Arts Academy (MCAA) Faculty Recital
Sun, Nov 2, 3:00
Center for the Arts, Monson Grand Tier III
Admission: Free.

360 ALLSTARS
Sat, Nov 8, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.
Fairfax Campus Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)

Before the Americas
Aug 25–Nov 15
Gillespie Gallery, Art and Design Building, Fairfax, VA

How We See What They Saw
A Reading Room of Photobooks by Women
Sep 15–Nov 21
Fenwick Gallery
Mason Student and Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

George Mason School of Theater:
Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
Fri, Oct 31, 7:30 
Sat, Nov 1, 2:00 and 7:30
Sun, Nov 2, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $40 Adult, $19 Senior.

Jazz Workshop Concert
Wed, Nov 5, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.

George Mason School of Dance: New Dances 2025
Thu, Nov 6, 8:00
Fri, Nov 7, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $30 Adult, $19 Senior.

Mason Jazz Vocal Night Fall 2025
Mon, Nov 10, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Paquito D’Rivera
Sat, Nov 1, 8:00 
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.

Abbie Palmer and Lucas Ashby
Wed, Nov 5, Lunch 12:30, concert 1:30
Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Hall
Admission: Lunch, concert, and dessert reception: $81.
Concert and dessert reception only: $50.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical
Sat, Nov 8, 11:00 and 2:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $24.

The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys
Sat, Nov 8, 5:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35.

The U.S. Army Band
Sun, Nov 9, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: Free.

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

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Meetings & Clubs

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 Nov 1 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Nov 3
 
 		  1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Nov 4
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Nov 5
 
 
 
 
 		 12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Nov 6
 
 
 		 11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Nov 7 10:00 am Town Hall Meeting
Sat Nov 8 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Nov 10
 		  9:30 am
 4:00 pm		 What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Nov 11
 		  2:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Nov 12
 
 
 
 
 
 		 11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Book Club – online
Conversations with Team Bloch – online
Thu Nov 13
 
 
 		 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 Club – online
Fri Nov 14
 
 
 
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
Sat Nov 15
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group

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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: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry

Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Chitra Mohla, 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.

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ENews October 24, 2025

by

OLLI E-News October 24, 2025
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.

Board of Directors Meeting, via Zoom and
In Person at Tallwood, October 17

October 24, 2025


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • The recently updated OLLI Mason Member Handbook is available on the OLLI Mason website at this link.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, October 31; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, October 28, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director

OLLI Mason Artist in Residence


By Lisa Mariam,
Executive Director

We are thrilled to be hosting an artist in residence at OLLI Mason! Brianna Camp is a recent School of Art graduate and the latest recipient of College of Visual and Performing Arts Young Alumni Commissioning Grant. She will be producing a series of paintings entitled Flare: Finding a Sense of Place in the Chronically Ill Body. Brianna’s large-scale oil paintings will be accompanied by documentary photographs and poetry that explores her personal experiences with chronic illness and aims to reflect on pain and healing.

⁠Brianna will be offering artist talks, demonstrations, and a tour of the exhibition to OLLI members. Please feel free to stop by the cottage to meet her and see the work in progress.

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Don’t Miss the Holiday Party, the Biggest Event of the Season!


By Marilyn Harriman, Diversions Chair


Have you registered for OLLI Mason’s biggest social event of the season, the annual holiday party? If not, you won’t want to miss it! Join fellow members and guests at 11:30, Tuesday, December 2, at the Country Club of Fairfax for lunch, a cash bar, socializing, entertainment, and door prizes.

This year, George Mason University will treat us to the seasonal sounds of winter as we mingle and eat lunch. Door prizes will be announced after lunch is served.

Lunch choices include chicken marsala, pasta primavera, or broccoli salad with grilled chicken. All meals include a beverage and dessert. When you register, you’ll be asked to indicate your entrée choice and pay $50 on the OLLI member portal: Event #1204F. Registration ends on Friday, November 14. OLLI members are welcome to bring a guest.

Our annual party at the country club is a festive and uplifting time when we break bread together and enjoy each other’s company after fall courses conclude. Come out and have a good time on December 2!

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Theater Potpourri Class Presents Conversations with Local Playwrights


By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers' Group


October 28: Meet Good Shepherd Players Director
Founded in 1981, the Good Shepherd Players is a community theater group that produces plays, musicals, cabarets, other theatrical performances, and at least one Broadway style musical each year. On Tuesday, October 28 at 11:50 a.m., Director Nancy Lavallee will join Theater Lovers via Zoom to tell us how their group employs creativity to bring theater to life in a most delightful way.
 
November 4: Meet a StageCoach Theater Company Playwright
On Tuesday, November 4, at 11:50 a.m. via Zoom, Theater Lovers will be treated to another local playwright of a different genre: of the StageCoach Theater Company. Aaron is a prolific playwright with more than 30 scripts for mysteries and children's stories to his credit. He is known for his original scripts and authentic approach to the art of acting. Besides playwriting, he directs StageCoach Banditos Improv Troupe and teaches advance acting students to hone their craft.
 
NO CLASS ON NOVEMBER 11. OLLI IS CLOSED.
 
November 18: Meet Hexagon Players
Their tagline should be: Let us entertain you! They will be at Tallwood in person ready to perform original skits with lots of music, fun, laughter and political satire. Plan to be there! More details to follow. Stay tuned.

Editor's Note: At the author's request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

BIG SCARE
 
Minding my own business in my suburban home
I got a very scary call on the telephone.
The guy on the line from the Sheriff’s office, said he
had a warrant for my arrest for a missed court decree.
He said I signed a subpoena back in June, you see—
Now they need a signature to prove it was me.
Of course I hadn’t signed any such thing—
This was so outrageous, I almost started laughing.
He said I’d need over eight thousand to pay my bail bond.
My husband, listening in, thought for sure I’d been conned.
They were to send deputies to our house, then lock me in jail
Up to seventy-two hours if I didn’t pay bail.
So, with fear and trembling, I hung up the phone.
No one called back; no deputies came to my home.
We were so glad we didn’t fall for this scam—
We sure learned a lesson from this potential flimflam!
                                          –Joan Lunsford

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances October 23 through 26


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


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 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.

Back to Top of Page
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

(25-26 Season subscriptions to Great Performances, and tickets for individual performances, are now on sale)
 
The Magic of Rob Lake
RESCHEDULED to April 19.

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Sat, Oct 25, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $65, $56, $41.
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)
 
Mason Jazz Ensemble Concert: Fall 2025
Thu, Oct 23, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.

Dewberry School of Music Faculty Artist Showcase Recital 2025
Sunday, Oct 26 at 3:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Free and Open to the Public.

Back to Top of Page
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Chatham County Line
Sat, Oct 25, 5:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35.

Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Romantic Impressions, Thomas Pandolfi, Piano
Sat, Oct 25, 7:30 
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35.

Time for Three (Hylton Presents)
Sun, Oct 26, 2:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $53, $46, $34.

Back to Top of Page
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.

Back to Top of Page
Meetings & Clubs

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). 

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 Oct 25 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Oct 27
 		  9:30 am
 4:00 pm		 What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Oct 28
 
 		  2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Oct 29
 
 
 
 
 		 11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Conversations with Team Bloch – online
Thu Oct 30
 
 		 11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Oct 31
 
 
 
 		  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 Nov 1 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Nov 3
 
 		  1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Nov 4
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Nov 5
 
 
 
 
 		 12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Nov 6
 
 
 		 11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Nov 7 10:00 am Town Hall Meeting
Sat Nov 8 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

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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: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry

Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Chitra Mohla, 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.

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ENews October 17, 2025

by

OLLI E-News October 17, 2025
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
 

Second Annual OLLI Oktoberfest Hosted October 10 by Diversions Chair Marilyn Harriman

October 17, 2025


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

 
  • Reminder: the OLLI Personal Computer User Group will meet in person at Tallwood, Saturday, October 18 (tomorrow), and via Zoom. The Zoom session starts at 12:45.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, October 24; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, October 21, at 6:00.

 
From the Desk of the Executive Director
Volunteer Highlights


By Lisa Mariam, Executive Director



Let's give our volunteers some love! The OLLI Mason program would not be possible without the dedication of hundreds of volunteers, some of whom have been volunteering for 5, 10, or even more years! 

We invite you to nominate a volunteer for special recognition. Please email [email protected] with your suggestion(s) including a description of their role(s) at OLLI, and bonus points for a photo. Each month we'll select one volunteer to highlight in the E-News.

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Potential French Club at OLLI? Please Reply If Interested


By Doris Bloch, Program Planning Committee Co-Chair



Parlez-vous Francais? Many of our OLLI members are very cosmopolitan, speaking multiple foreign languages, and often have much experience with the French language and culture. Are you perhaps interested in practicing or refreshing your French conversation at OLLI?

OLLI has a functioning Spanish Club, but not a French Club. We have had requests for a French course, but we haven't yet found an instructor willing to teach. However, a feasible alternative might be a French Conversation Club, meeting twice a month, to accommodate French speakers on an advanced beginner or intermediate level.

My own French is limited to about five words, so I am not qualified to coordinate the group, but I am willing to get the club started, assuming  there is sufficient interest. Please reply to olliclub@gmu.edu if you would like to hear more about this effort. If enough members reply, the next step would be to set up an initial interest group meeting, perhaps in mid-November. Thank you in advance. (Merci d'avance.)
Photo of the Month


The October 2025 Photo of the Month theme was Still Life. We selected Edward Marion's photo "Peach Bowl," 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, Photography Club Coordinator

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Moments            

They come and go 
      Long ones, short ones
      Pleasant ones wretched ones
      Memorable ones forgettable ones
Most have little traction 
       This one does
    
Fifty years ago this June 
        Moved in two doors from you
        Had the same first name and  
        Same birthday, you with a five-year start
        You a high school teacher 
               me a federal worker
         Become best buddies 

Half a century of moments passed 
Three weeks ago, you passed
What moments will rise to celebrate your life

I’ll start with this one
          Winter ’79, Saturday night after dark
          Many inches had fallen
          Two fathers, two sleds 
          Carving up snowy streets
          Behaving like a couple of kids
          Absent parental supervision
          A night never to be repeated

Thanks for all the moments of 
          fun, laughter and love 
                                
                              –Bill Sinclair

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances October 17 through October 27


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


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 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.

Back to Top of Page
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

(25-26 Season subscriptions to Great Performances, and tickets for individual performances, are now on sale)
 
The Magic of Rob Lake 
RESCHEDULED to April 19.

Laurie Berkner Band
Sat, Oct 18 at 11:00 and 3:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $45, $35, $24. Meet and Greet after 3:00 performance, $66 per family of up to 4.

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Sat, Oct 25, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $65, $56, $41.
 
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Mason Opera Scenes Performance: Fall 2025
Mon, Oct 20, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Free.

Mason Jazz Ensemble Concert: Fall 2025
Thu, Oct 23, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.

Faculty Artist Showcase Recital 
Sun, Oct 26, 3:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Free.

 

Back to Top of Page
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Prince William Little Theatre: The Woman in Black
Fri, Oct 17, 8:00
Sat, Oct 18, 7:00
Sun, Oct 19, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30 Adult, $25 Senior.

Manassas Ballet Theatre: Frankenstein
Fri, Oct 17, 7:30 
Sat, Oct 18, 7:30
Sun, Oct 19, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $81, $71, $60, $50, $40.

Chatham County Line
Sat, Oct 25, 5:00.
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35.

Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Romantic Impressions
Sat, Oct 25, 7:30 
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35.

Time for Three (Hylton Presents)
Sun, Oct 26, 2:00.
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $53, $46, $34.

Back to Top of Page
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.

Back to Top of Page
Meetings & Clubs

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 Oct 18
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Oct 20
 
 		  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 Oct 21
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Oct 22
 
 

 
 
 		 11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists
Spanish Club – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Thu Oct 23
 		  3:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Oct 24


 
 
 		  9:00 am
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm		 Mason Sarcopenia Study
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Oct 25 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Oct 27
 		  9:30 am
 4:00 pm		 What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Oct 28
 
 		  2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Oct 29
 
 
 
 
 		 11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Conversations with Team Bloch – online
Thu Oct 30
 
 		 11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Oct 31
 
 
 
 		  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 Nov 1 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

Back to Top of Page
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: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry

Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Chitra Mohla, 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.

Back to Top of Page

ENews October 10, 2025

by

OLLI E-News October 10, 2025
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Kick-Off Coffee and Volunteer/Activity Fair Hosted by Member Services Chair Toni Acton, September 18

October 10, 2025


Editor of the Week: Chitra Mohla
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, October 17; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, October 14, at 6:00.

Back to Top of Page
Chat Topic for Wednesday Conversation
October 15
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch,
Co-Moderators

On the first and third Wednesday of the month, Team Bloch (Brenda and Doris, a totally unrelated duo) moderate a friendly social chat on Zoom. Any member is very welcome to join us, to listen or to air views on the selected topic. 

We will hold the next session on Wednesday October 15 at 4:00 and the zoom link is always found in the Daily Schedule (hint: it is the same link as the 24/7 chat line).

Our topic for October 15 is newly published books that you are excited to read.
September is always a big month for the release of new books, but this year there are SO many new ones that interest us. Ken Follett has a new novel about Stonehenge. Ian McEwan has a new novel being touted as his best in years. Andrew Ross Sorkin has a nonfiction book titled 1929; Arundhati Roy wrote a memoir about her mother, and Osman’s 5th book in the Thursday Murder Club series was released on September 30. These are just a few of the new releases. 

Please join us and share what new book intrigues you.

Back to Top of Page
Computer Club
3rd Saturday, October 18
Experts Panel
Windows Boot Sequence


By Paul Howard , OPCUG Program Chair


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, October 18, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45 (Zoom Link below).
 
Experts Panel—Presented by Geof Goodrum, Tom Gutnick, and Nick Wenri
This presentation is aimed at Windows 10 users whose computers cannot be upgraded to Windows 11, as well as any Windows user who is open to alternatives to Windows.
 
The presentation will show that Linux Mint with the Cinnamon presentation system closely resembles the look and feel of Windows. It will outline some of the popular apps that can be used in Linux Mint, including Web browsers, Zoom, LibreOffice, VLC, and others.
 
It also describes two closely related activities. First, it shows how to download a Linux Mint ISO file, download the Rufus for Windows application, and how to use Rufus to install the Linux Mint ISO file on a USB external storage device. Second, it shows how a Windows computer can be configured to start up a Linux operating system found on a USB external storage device such as a flash drive.
 
Test-driving Linux from a USB external drive leaves Windows intact on the computer internal storage. Windows can be used any time the USB external drive is not connected. If you elect to install Linux on your drive C, the flash drive Linux can do that for you.
 
Learn in 30—Windows Boot Sequence Presented by Roger Fujii
What happens when you push the button, and what tweaks might be helpful to your computer experience? Roger Fujii has helped OLLI with technology challenges for its email and LAN systems since 2006 and has been a PATACS stalwart since the ‘80s.

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:
https://olligmu-org.zoom.us/j/88388435350?pwd=hfaEFO7vfkvhVspokJXKnzpia7uTOh.1
to join the meeting and use passcode 804997. (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces), or enter meeting ID 883 8843 5350 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.

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Get Ready to Split Your Sides Laughing as You Meet with Local Playwrights


By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers' Group


October 14 Class Rescheduled for November 18 Features Hexagon
The 412Z Theater Potpourri: Meet the Playwrights class scheduled for Tuesday, October 14 has been cancelled and rescheduled as a hybrid class for Tuesday, November 18 from 11:50 to 1:15. The rescheduled class offers theater lovers an opportunity to personally meet the talented musicians and actors who will perform some of the original, hilarious skits Hexagon is famous for going on seven decades now. Hexagon is Washington's Only Original Political Satirical Musical Comedy Revue. 

October 21 Class Features Playwright Ellen Price
On Tuesday, October 21 from 11:50 to 1:15, get ready to laugh with playwright Ellen Price. To quote Ellen, "I write comedies in historic and contemporary settings – all with laugh-out-loud dialogue, dynamic characters and loads of heart." Ellen will join us via Zoom to talk about her creative process for writing her plays, invite us to read a bit of The Misfit Players and discuss it with her. Go to Ellen Dean Price's web site to learn more about and read parts of her other plays, one of which – A Backstage Christmas – we will go see in December. 

October 19 Providence Players Perform The Mousetrap
Join the Theater Lovers' Group on Sunday, October 19 when we will attend the 2pm matinee of Agatha Christies' The Mousetrap performed by the Providence Players at James Lee Community Center Theater, located at 2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church. The Mousetrap is a murder mystery about a group of snowbound strangers, each with their own secret, who find out there is a murderer among them. Let the fun begin! Go to providenceplayers.org to purchase your ticket ($21). Be sure to get your senior discount. Optional lunch before the show TBA. Guests are always welcome to enjoy theater with our group, and we do carpool.

Editor's Note: At the author's request, all words are unedited and appear exactly as submitted.
Member Achievement

Poetry Book Published - Created by OLLI Members   
By Carolyn F. Wyatt, Memoir—and More—Writing Group Co-Coordinator

A Fountain of Dreams: Haiku – Senryu – Tanka, a book of poetry edited by Dr. Kathleen P. Decker, M.D., was recently published on Amazon (see this link ). The volume quickly rose to #1 in New Releases in Haiku, Tanka. The book contains poetry and photos by OLLI members. It was compiled under the tutelage and editorship of Dr. Kathleen Decker, president of the Poetry Society of Virginia.
 
In summer 2025, Dr. Decker taught a six-week course, American Versions of Haiku, Tanka, and Renku. Participants learned to use such formats in English. A great time was had by all.

Thank you, Dr. Decker!

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Unpacking

Mom’s unpacking for her long journey.
Items she’s always carried
are being left behind.
She drops memories like
shoes and socks
stripped off and left on the floor after a long day.
 
Memories of how her parents died
how her son died
how to spell
house
have joined the discard pile.
The existence of her youngest sister teeters between
storage and removal.
 
I watch her disrobe
like a voyeur.
She doesn’t notice
I see her
shed each layer
doesn’t notice
my shock at her state of undress.
 
Maybe I need to unpack too
my expectations
of what proper attire is for the
journey she’s making
with a shrinking satchel
 
She doesn’t seem to mind
standing in her bare feet.
I wonder
can I share her delight in her
wiggling toes?
 
         ---Susan Rexroad


 Susan Rexroad, Jackie Davey, Jan Bohall, Carolyn Wyatt (from left to right)

Unpacking was an adult award winner in the Fairfax Public Library's 2025 Poetic Musings Contest.

The Fairfax County Public Library’s Poetic Musings award ceremony is a fun event. The adult and youth winners in each category read their winning poems to a crowd consisting mostly of the other award recipients and the people who support them. My group of cheerleaders included my husband and son and 3 OLLI members, who, like me, have been honing their poetry-writing craft through classes and clubs offered by OLLI. These accomplished poets, Carolyn Wyatt, Jan Bohall, and Jackie Davey, have chalked up their own accolades and have been published in various venues.

Lucky for me, they all have given back to OLLI by leading different writing classes and clubs and/or by facilitating the publication of member written works. Our lifetime learning community provides such a robust opportunity to learn from each other while cheering each other on, one more reason to say, "Thanks, OLLI!"

    ---Susan Rexroad

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances October 10 through October 20


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer



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 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.

Back to Top of Page
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

(25-26 Season subscriptions to Great Performances, and tickets for individual performances, are now on sale)
 
The Magic of Rob Lake
RESCHEDULED to April 19.

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: The Lark and The
Seasons
Sat, Oct 11, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $75, $64, $54.

Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel:
Chopin—The Romantic
Sun, Oct 12, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.

Laurie Berkner Band
Sat, Oct 18 at 11:00 and 3:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $45, $35, $24. Meet and greet after 3:00
performance $66 per family of up to 4.
  
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Happy Hour with Darden and Friends
Fri, Oct 10 and Oct 17, 7:30
Reston Town Center Park
Admission: Free.
 
Mason Choirs Concert: Timeless: Choral Voices Across the Centuries
Tue, Oct 14, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.
 
Mason Symphony Orchestra
Wed, Oct 15, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.
 
Mason Opera Scenes Performance: Fall 2025
Mon, Oct 20, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Free.

Back to Top of Page
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Prince William Little Theatre: The Woman in Black
Fri, Oct 10, 8:00
Sat, Oct 11, 7:00 and 10:00
Sun, Oct 12, 2:00
Fri, Oct 17, 8:00
Sat, Oct 18, 7:00
Sun, Oct 19, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30 Adult, $25 Senior.

Manassas Chorale: From Broadway with Love
Sat, Oct 11, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.

Eva Ayllon with Special Guest Daniela Darcourt
Sun, Oct 12, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $185, $155, $135, $105, $85 (tickets sold through Tickeri—888.981.7218).

Virginia Opera: A Taste of Opera
Tue, Oct 14, lunch at 12:30, concert at 1:30
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Admission: Lunch, concert, and dessert reception: $81
                 Concert and dessert reception-only: $50.
 
Manassas Ballet Theatre: Frankenstein
Fri, Oct 17, 7:30
Sat, Oct 18, 7:30
Sun, Oct 19, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $81, $71, $60, $50, $40.

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

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Meetings & Clubs

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).

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 Oct 11 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Oct 13
 		  9:30 am
 4:00 pm		 What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Oct 14
 
 		  2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Oct 15
 
 
 
 		 12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Oct 16
 
 
 		  3:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
 6:00 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Oct 17
 
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm		 Crafts and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Oct 18
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Oct 20
 
 		  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 Oct 21
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Oct 22
 
 
 
 
 		 12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists
Spanish Club – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Thu Oct 23
 		  3:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Oct 24
 
 
 
 		  9:00 am
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm		 Mason Sarcopenia Study
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Oct 25 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

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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: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry

Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Chitra Mohla, 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.

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OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE
AT GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

4210 Roberts Rd. Fairfax, VA 22032-1028
Phone: (703) 503-3384
Email: [email protected]

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