Barry Haack, Geographer and Career Faculty Member, Described a Unique and Still Important Irrigation System Developed in Iran About 3000 Years Ago with Underground Aqueducts, February 10
Nominations continue for Board of Directors candidates for the 2025 election (see article below).
Reminder: There is a 3rd Saturday meeting of the OLLI Personal Computer User Group February 15 (tomorrow) at 1:00 in person at Tallwood and via Zoom (Zoom session opens at 12:45).
Reminder: The Mason Jazz Festival with free concerts (no tickets required) is February 15 (tomorrow) from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 28; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 25, at 6:00.
By Norma Jean Reck, Chairperson, Nominating Committee
Members of OLLI's Nominating Committee continue identifying candidates for the Board of Directors and verifying that they are interested in being a candidate for Director. All qualified OLLI members interested in being a candidate must notify the Nominating Committee of your interest by emailing Chairperson Norma Jean Reck at [email protected] no later than Friday, March 7. The qualifications for being a Director can be found in Section B of Appendix A, Director Nomination and Election Procedures in OLLI's Policies and Procedures Manual, which you can find online at olli.gmu.edu, under Documents on the Main Menu.
Save the Date: Science, Technology, and Health Program Planning Group Meeting
By Michele Romano, M.D., Science, Technology, and Health Program Planning Group Co-Chair
There will be a Science, Technology, and Health Program Planning Group meeting on Thursday, March 6 at 10:00, via Zoom only. The meeting is open to all OLLI members, and we would love to have you. Drop in, check us out, see what we are up to. We will be discussing present and future classes and getting updates from OLLI staff. We need your input and ideas for future classes or instructors you would like to recommend. And if you would be willing to teach a class yourself, we would love you even more. The Zoom link will be in the Daily Schedule email that morning.
Thank you for all you do to make our OLLI so special. Hope to see you at the meeting.
Save the Date: LLT Program Planning Committee to Meet
By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group Co-Chair
Date: Tuesday March 4
Time: 10:00-11:00
What: Literature, Language, and Theater (LLT) Program Planning Group Meeting
Via Zoom; see link below
We would welcome your inputs and recommendations if you enjoy the classics, spy novels, science-fiction, poetry, or memoirs. We need your thoughts and ideas if you want to learn a language, explore playwrights and the world of theater, or hone your writing skills.
Please join us for our quarterly all-campus program planning group meeting for literature, theater, poetry, writing, and language programming on Tuesday, March 4, at 10:00 via Zoom.
We will be reviewing past terms and looking forward to planning for fall 2025 and beyond. All OLLI members are invited to contribute to the excellent programming OLLI Mason offers. Bring ideas for literature, theater, writing, or language classes, and possible instructor resources for these popular classes. 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 March 4 at 10:00. The meeting Zoom link is below.
Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
By Camille Hodges, HSS/CE Program Planning Group Co-Chair
Happy February!
Hope you have had a chance to check out the spring catalog. It is sensational! Thanks to Shannon Morrow and all who had a hand in its production.
A meeting of the Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events (HSS/CE) Program Planning Group will be held via Zoom on Friday, February 28, at 10:00; save this on your calendar. Here is the Zoom link and other information for the meeting: https://gmu.zoom.us/j/98382243840
Meeting ID: 983 8224 3840
One tap mobile
All OLLI members are welcome to join us. We have a secretary; its name is AI. It does not take attendance, but records dialogue.
My current endeavor is finding a speaker/presenter for “A History of the Courts in Fairfax County” (working title). Looking forward to hearing your course ideas. Independent submissions are also encouraged.
By Doris Bloch, Program Planning Committee Co-Chair
Sometimes new OLLI members are unaware of the plethora of clubs, groups, and ongoing activities sponsored by OLLI. Some are virtual, some are in person, some are both. Some meet weekly year-round, some just during a term, some monthly or sporadically. But they cover a wide range of interests. Clubs are one of the very best ways to meet other members who are likely to share interests with you. They give you an opportunity to meet in small or intimate groups, talk to people on a one-to-one basis, or just discuss topics in a low-key setting, without pressure. Groups are a means to bond with other members—much easier than in a lecture class environment.
Three things to know about groups:
One: You can find the list of groups and ongoing activities on pages 25-29 of the spring catalog. There are 29 of them!
Two: If you register on the OLLI Portal, you can find the groups under Ongoing Activities. However, the club registration process differs from the course registration process. You select Add To Cart, and then once you have completed your course selections and prioritization, you must select Check Out to get the cart contents into your account. The cart checkout is a separate processing step.
Three: You have to renew your membership in any club for each term; memberships expire at the end of the previous term.
And, of course, if you have a desire for a new club, you can start up another one!
By Linda Harber, Friends of Music at Mason Co–President
Recently at OLLI, a small music group from Mason, led by Professor June Huang, Director of Strings at the Dewberry School of Music at Mason, performed a program on The Spheres Project Presents Prokofiev’s Quartet No. 2 in F Major Op 92. It was very well received, and the OLLI participants asked about other musical events they will be playing. The audience really wanted to attend more. These programs are all free. Professor June Huang provided the following information.
Sunday, February 16, 3:00, Harris Theatre. This performance of Prokofiev’s Quartet No. 2 will also include some harp/flute duos.
Tuesday, March 4, 4:30, Fenwick Library Atrium. We will perform the first movement of the String Quartet No. 9 in A Major by Sergei Taneyev in addition to the Prokofiev quartet that we played at OLLI.
Tuesday, April 22, 7:00, Fenwick Library. This Music in the Library concert will feature works by nine student composers.
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.
West Coast Street Dance Fundamentals and Q&A with Versa-Style Street Dance Company
Fri, Feb 14, 7:00
Concert Hall
Free, registration required. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/afHpRIx/westcoaststreetdanceversa Versa-Style Street Dance Company: Rooted Rhythms
Sat, Feb 15, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier III 45 minutes prior to curtain.
A post-performance open session with members of Versa-Style Street Dance Company will take place in the Center’s main lobby. High-energy, low-pressure—all styles welcome. Come get down with us at this celebratory afterparty, DJed by Diyanna Monet!
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
The Acting Company: August Wilson’s Two Trains Running
Sun, Feb 16, 7:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier III 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
Kodo: One Earth Tour 2025: Warabe Sat, Mar 1, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Angélique Kidjo
Sun, Mar 2, 7:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Faculty Artist Series: Spheres Project Sun, Feb 16, 3:00
Performers include:
June Huang and Suyuan Carrasco, violin
Alyssa Cabassa, viola
Gerald Fowkes, cello
Taylor Fleshman, harp
Thomas J. Wible, flute
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
NPHC 2025 Step Show
Sat, Feb 22, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
Faculty Artist Series: Duo-Piano Silver Anniversary Concert
Dr. Anna Balakerskaia and Dr. Linda Apple Monson
Sun, Feb 23, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
Mason Wind Symphony & Symphonic Band Concert
Tues, Feb 25, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15 Adult, $10 Senior.
Faculty Artist Series
Kathleen Gardiner Mulcahy (clarinet)
Sun, Mar 2, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
Faculty Artist Series
Songs of Jesse Guessford
Sun, Mar 2, 7:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert
Mon, Mar 3, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15 Adult, $10 Senior.
The Acting Company: The Comedy of Errors
Sat, Feb 15, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
The United States Army Band: The Music of Janelle Monáe: Love, Liberation, and Joy
Thu, Feb 20, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: Free.
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
Sun, Feb 23, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Expressions
Sat, Mar 1, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: A Few of Our Favorite Things
Sun, Mar 2, 2:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
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 Feb 15
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Feb 17
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 18
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 19
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Feb 20
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 21
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Feb 22
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 24
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Reading Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 25
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 26
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
4:00 pm
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Theater Lovers’ Group - online
Thu Feb 27
11:50 am
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 28
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: Thomas Appich, 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.
By Norma Jean Reck,
Chairperson, Nominating Committee
Members of OLLI's Nominating Committee have begun identifying candidates for the Board of Directors and verifying that they are interested in being a candidate for Director. All qualified OLLI members interested in being a candidate must notify the Nominating Committee of your interest by emailing Chairperson Norma Jean Reck at [email protected] no later than Friday, March 7. The qualifications for being a Director can be found in Section B of Appendix A. Director Nomination and Election Procedures of OLLI's Policies and Procedures Manual, which you can find online at olli.gmu.edu, under Documents on the Main Menu.
Photography Club: Award-winning Photographer to Speak
By John Nash, Photography Club Member
Bill Mugg, a local photographer who has garnered many awards, will speak on macro photography at the February 14 OLLI Photography Club (OPC) meeting. In addition to macro photography—or the art of photographing small—Mugg, an accomplished wildlife photographer, will talk about some of his other photographic adventures, including his trip to Brazil's amazing Pantanal area. His photos can be viewed on his website at this link. Mugg, a former Navy officer, resides in Vienna.
Ed Marion, one of the coordinators of the OPC, encourages all members of OLLI to attend this presentation, noting “It's not often that we get speakers of this quality with this broad of a photographic background who can explain his photographic journey and answer questions.”
The OPC meeting begins at 9:30 in person at Tallwood or on Zoom (Zoom codes are available each day in the OLLI daily schedule email.)
The OLLI Photography Club meets twice a month at Tallwood or by Zoom: the second Friday of each month is for photo competitions and presentations, while the fourth Friday is for review and discussion of OPC galleries. All members of OLLI are invited to attend either in person or by Zoom. It's part of your OLLI membership!
By Margie Wildblood and Sophia Elberti, OLLI Ink Co-Editors
OLLI writers—beginners and experienced—take note: OLLI Ink is now accepting submissions, including poems, fiction, personal essays, and memoirs, for its 2025 edition.
Now moving into its 15th year, OLLI Ink is a well-established publication whose contributors come from a wide spectrum of OLLI members, including, but not limited to, those enrolled in writing classes and workshops.
How to Submit: Please send your entries and any questions to both Margie Wildwood at [email protected] and Sophia Elberti at [email protected].
Guidelines:
Poems – please limit number of lines to 30.
Prose – please single space and indent the first sentence of each paragraph; limit number of words to 2,500.
Contributions are welcome through the end of March.
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in a recent issue. It is repeated here to encourage submissions to OLLI Ink.
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, February 15, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
History of Unix—Presented by Lorrin Garson
Unix is a family of multitasking, multi-user computer operating systems that come from the original AT&T Unix. Initially it was intended to be used within the Bell System itself, but it was licensed to outside parties in the late 1970s, which resulted in numerous variants, such as University of California at Berkeley (BSD), Microsoft (Xenix), Sun Microsystems (SunOS/Solaris), IBM (AIX) and others. Arguably, it is the most influential operating system to date.
Lorrin Garson had a long career in technical publishing of chemical information. His previous presentation topics included cryptography, encryption of personal data, cloud storage, and the origins of personal computers.
Learn in 30: KVM Switches & Computer Speakers—Presented by John Krout
A KVM switch is a valuable accessory when you have more than one computer on a desk or table. A keyboard, video monitor, and mouse (KVM) are connected to the switch, and computers are connected also. The KVM switch allows the user to choose a computer to connect to those three desktop peripherals. This can make a huge difference in an apartment or townhouse where space is limited, or whenever a budget prevents purchasing multiple monitors.
The presenter connected his computer speakers to the KVM switch so that those, too, were used by each one of the three computers. In this presentation, you will see a modern KVM switch, the unusual cables to connect the KVM switch to computers, and how to connect a typical analog 3.5mm diameter cylindrical audio plug for speakers to a USB port. His KVM switch has become a KVMS switch.
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.
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 last year!)—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 952879 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 8124 5733 563 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
Creative Cauldron Opens with Steel Magnolias in its New Home
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group
Creative Cauldron is starting the new year in its lovely new home at 127 East Broad Street, Falls Church, with the beloved classic Steel Magnolias. A comedy-drama, Steel Magnolias was written as a tribute to the playwright's sister. It takes place in Truvy's in-home beauty salon in a fictional northwestern Louisiana parish where the friends meet to bond and help each other cope.
Please join the Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) on Sunday, February 16 to see the 2pm matinee performance. Discount tickets are $40, with a group of ten people. To date, we need five people. They have reserved a 1st tier section for OLLI, so when you phone 703-436-9948 for tickets, be sure to tell them you are with OLLI to get the discount and be seated with the TLG attendees. Free garage parking is available next to the theater (and Whole Foods). We will have lunch at a close by restaurant at 12 noon.
TLG has a variety of theater events coming up you won't want to miss: The Immigrant, The Secret Garden, Jesus Christ Superstar, Decision Height, and much more. To receive all TLG emails, join the Theater Lovers' Group by signing up online or phoning the Registrar at 703--503-3384, ext. 221.
Editor’s note: At the author’s request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
Making and eating potato soup
remains one of the more satisfying activities
as cold days unfold to colder.
I can see Mother now standing
at our old wood stove stirring
somehow I don’t remember her doing
the requisite peeling and dicing
of potatoes and onion, the only real work
of the project. But oh, the joy
of the result. She never blended the chunks
so we could press them to the roofs of our mouths
for full flavor and texture…comfort food
in every sense.
– 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.
Versa-Style Street Dance Company: Rooted Rhythms
Sat, Feb 15, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier III 45 minutes prior to curtain.
A post-performance open session with members of Versa-Style Street Dance Company will take place in the Center’s main lobby. High-energy, low-pressure—all styles welcome. Come get down with us at this celebratory afterparty, DJed by Diyanna Monet!
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
The Acting Company: August Wilson’s Two Trains Running
Sun, Feb 16, 7:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier III 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
Faculty Artist Series: Spheres Project
Sun, Feb 16, 3:00
Performers include:
June Huang and Suyuan Carrasco, violin
Alyssa Cabassa, viola
Gerald Fowkes, cello
Taylor Fleshman, harp
Thomas J. Wible, flute
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
Elena Moon Park & Friends
Sat, Feb 8, 11:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $15.
Dylan Triplett: Blues and Soul
Sat, Feb 8, 5:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30.
Robinson Secondary Gala Concert with Vienna Choral Society
Sun, Feb 9, 4:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $25 Adult, $20 Senior.
Virginia National Ballet: Snow White
Fri, Feb 14, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55.
The Acting Company: The Comedy of Errors
Sat, Feb 15, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
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 Feb 8
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 10
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 Feb 11
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 12
11:50 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Thu Feb 13
11:50 am
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 14
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Feb 15
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Feb 17
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 18
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 19
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Feb 20
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 21
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
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, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Tom 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.
The OLLI History Club will meet via Zoom at 4:00 on Wednesday, February 5. The presenter will be Jim Anderson, who is well known to OLLI members for his wonderful and very popular “Frontiersmen” series. Next Wednesday, Jim’s presentation will be titled Stampede to the Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush. The news of the discovery of gold in the Canadian Yukon territory in 1897 electrified millions suffering from the effects of an economic depression. The sensational and often inaccurate news stories led to an epidemic of “gold fever” and sparked a stampede to that remote and forbidding region. The results were dramatic and heroic for the lucky few; but tragic and often lethal for the vast majority seeking instant wealth. Hubris and greed were on full display; brotherly love was in short supply.
The Tallwood Book Club will meet via Zoom on Friday, February 14, at 2:30; check the OLLI daily schedule email for the Zoom link. Our book for February is Erasure, by Percival Everett. The March selection is Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe.
Contact Betty Ellerbee at [email protected] for additional information.
By Christine Narbut, Dabbling Artists Group Coordinator
Welcome to all artists and anyone interested in learning more about art and creating art. The Dabbling Artists Group comes together to discuss, create and inspire OLLI members in the visual arts. Members can work on projects and receive advice from other members and provide suggestions to plan for a future Visual Arts Program at OLLI.
The next meeting of the Dabbling Artists Group is Wednesday, February 5 at 1:30 via Zoom. The group provides socialization and opportunities for support and practice in a group setting, whether your medium is pen and ink, pastels, pencils, watercolor, or other visual arts. During the winter term, Dabbling Artists meet via Zoom every 2 weeks. With the start of the spring term, the meetings are hybrid at Fairfax (Tallwood) and via Zoom.
For questions or more information contact, Chris Narbut at [email protected].
Below is the December painting from a Dabbling Artists member.
Mason Jazz Festival – February 15 (Harris Theatre)
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A, Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
Happy New Year! For OLLI members – Free concerts (no tickets required) on Saturday, February 15, as part of the Mason Jazz Festival.
MASON JAZZ FESTIVAL
Saturday, February 15
10:00am – 10:00pm
Harris Theatre: 4471 Aquia Creek Ln, Fairfax, VA 22030
All concerts are FREE and open to the public – no tickets or registration required.
Free parking in LOT K music.gmu.edu/visit-us/mason-jazz-festival
The Mason Jazz Festival is a yearly invitational, non-competitive event open to middle school, high school, college, and community jazz ensembles. The closing concert is at 7:00 and will feature the Mason Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Jim Carroll, and the US Army Blues! Join us for a full day of jazz music and community.
By Doris Bloch, Caregivers Support Group Coordinator
Rosalynn Carter once said, "There are three groups of people: those that are currently caregivers, those that receive help from their caregivers, and those who will be caregivers." Are you in one of those groups? If the first one is a match for you right now, OLLI may be able to give you some support.
The OLLI Caregivers Support Group meets via Zoom every second week throughout the year to offer practical and emotional support to the participants. We meet for an hour and a facilitator from the George Mason School of Social Work joins us. Sometimes we share our thoughts and concerns; sometimes the discussion is about resources and suggestions. The group is listed for registration on our member portal, and if you register there, you will receive all messages addressed to the group. Our next meeting is scheduled for 3:45 on February 4, and you can find the link in the daily schedule email.
There is also a mailing list, separate from registration, for those who don't want to commit to a regular meeting but want to remain informed. For the latter, and for any questions, please contact Doris Bloch ([email protected]).
Biweekly Team Bloch Wednesday Conversation Topic for February 5
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
The January 17th Washington Post published a fascinating article titled “Who are the top readers for 2024? And where do they get their books?” (Click here to read the article.) YouGov (survey firm) crunched the data and found that 63% of us read at least one book last year. Did you read more than 20 books last year? If yes, you are a Super Reader in the top 11%.
The article also has data on the use of digital versus physical books and the use of libraries. One of the surprises was that older Americans tend to use libraries less for both digital and physical books.
We invite all OLLI book lovers to join us on February 5th at 4:00 for the conversation, regardless of whether or not you had an opportunity to read the article. Look for the Zoom link in the OLLI Daily Schedule.
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 website Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Branford Marsalis
Sat, Feb 1, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $46.
Mike Super – Magic & Illusion
Sun, Feb 2, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $40, $30, $20.
The Constitution and Loving v. Virginia(a panel discussion)
Thu, Feb 6, 7:00
Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center
3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030
Admission: Free, but registration required. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/r7oTPP0/loving
Sarah Sherman: Spring Comedy Headliner 2025
Thu, Feb 6, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
Fairfax Symphony: Love is in the Air
Sat, Feb 8, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $65, $55, $40.
GMU School of Theater: Mason Cabaret 2025
Fri, Jan 31, 8:00 (at Gregory Family Theater, Hylton Center)
Sat, Feb 1, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Feb 2, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $30 Adult, $15 Senior.
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. 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 Feb 1
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 3
4:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 4
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online Team Bloch Wednesday Conversation – online
Thu Feb 6
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Feb 7
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Dance Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Feb 8
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 10
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 Feb 11
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 12
11:50 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Thu Feb 13
11:50 am
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 14
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Feb 15
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
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, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Tom 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 2025 Nominating Committee Begins Identifying Candidates for the Board of Directors
By Norma Jean Reck, Chairperson, Nominating Committee
Each year, the members of OLLI’s Board of Directors create a Nominating Committee to recruit candidates for the Board of Directors, to conduct the election, and to select officers for the upcoming year. Each year, five directors are elected by the general membership by secret ballot for a three-year term. Officers are elected by the Board to serve a one-year term.
Who is the Nominating Committee?
According to the recently updated Policies and Procedures Manual drafted by the Governance Committee and approved by the Board of Directors on October 18, 2024, the Nominating Committee must consist of five members – two directors and three non-director OLLI members. The committee members are not eligible to be candidates for director for the upcoming year.
At its January 17, 2025, Board meeting, the following OLLI members were approved to serve as OLLI’s 2025 Nominating Committee: Peter Ansoff and Lillian Brooks as the two Board members, and Doris Bloch, Marguerite Johnson, and Norma Jean Reck as the three non-board OLLI members.
The members of the Nominating Committee have met to review the new policies and procedures, to begin planning for identifying candidates for the 2025 election that will take place in May, and to develop a calendar for the process.
What are the Qualifications to be a Director?
Qualifications to be a candidate for the Board are provided in OLLI’s Policies and Procedures Manual on page 31 Appendix A. Director Nominations and Election Procedures. The Manual can be found online at OLLI’s website olli.gmu.edu.
Briefly, the general qualifications to be a director require that the candidate have expressed interest in OLLI by having taught, coordinated classes, served as a committee member, volunteered, etc. Other qualifications include oral and written communication skills, willingness to contribute to the governance of OLLI, and to assume the necessary responsibilities to lead the organization.
The Board may also ask that specific expertise or experience be considered such as legal, financial, or fundraising skills.
How are the Candidates Identified?
The Nominating Committee is now in the process of identifying possible candidates for the Board. Once they have been identified, they will be asked to verify their interest in being a candidate for Director. The Committee is required to provide five qualified candidates to the Board at its March 21, 2025, meeting.
Can a Qualified OLLI Member Self-Identify?
Yes, you can self-identify. You must notify the Committee of your interest by e-mailing the Chairperson, Norma Jean Reck, at [email protected] by March 7, 2025. Be sure to include a brief bio and reasons for wanting to serve on the Board of Directors.
Because of the looming change in the executive director position, OLLI is at a crucial inflection point that will require well-qualified Directors with the vision to lead OLLI into a future where we not only survive, but thrive. Given the remarkable make-up of our membership, I’m sure we can meet the challenge.
OLLI Mason Seeks Spanish and Other Language Instructors: Note Correction!
By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group
For many years, OLLI Mason has been able to offer beginning, intermediate, or conversational Spanish classes on a regular basis. At the moment, our regular instructors are no longer available. We also, in the past, have been able to offer French language classes as well.
Note: An incorrect contact email was submitted to the January 17 OLLI-E-News on the above story. If you are interested in teaching or know resources to teach Spanish or other languages, please contact Pat Bangs at [email protected] or [email protected]. (This reflects corrected email information.) Thanks.
By Margie Wildblood and Sophia Elberti, OLLI Ink Co-Editors
OLLI writers—beginners and experienced—take note: OLLI Ink is now accepting submissions, including poems, fiction, personal essays, and memoirs, for its 2025 edition.
Now moving into its 15th year, OLLI Ink is a well-established publication whose contributors come from a wide spectrum of OLLI members, including, but not limited to, those enrolled in writing classes and workshops.
How to Submit: Please send your entries and any questions to both Margie Wildblood at [email protected] and Sophia Elberti at [email protected].
Guidelines:
Poems – please limit number of lines to 30.
Prose – please single space and indent the first sentence of each paragraph; limit number of words to 2,500.
Contributions are welcome through the end of March.
The Tallwood Book Club will meet via Zoom on Friday, February 14, at 2:30. The book for February 14 is Erasure, by Percival Everett. Check the OLLI daily schedule email for the Zoom link.
By Doris Bloch, Crafts and Conversation Group Coordinator
OLLI has a Crafts and Conversation group which meets every Friday morning from 9:30-11:00 at Tallwood and on Zoom. A variety of crafts is being worked on during each session—e.g., everything from knitting, crocheting, construction of miniature buildings and furnishings, cross-stitch, fly tying, and fleece spinning (complete with spinning wheel). In the past, we have enjoyed and encouraged members who did calligraphy, mosaic work, wood whittling, and sketching with us—we love the diversity. We all learn from each other in a supportive environment.
While there is a sign-up option, we also encourage walk-ins; why not drop by one Friday morning in the Tallwood annex or log on to our Zoom session and get acquainted with us? We are very excited and pleased to welcome all members.
Second Lagrange Point: A Love Poem
We have achieved equilibrium
Defied gravity to float
Deified our transcendence
Hovering above earth
Stabilized by sun and moon
Wearing a shower of stars
Hearts forever in balance
Our celestial duet echoing
With music of the spheres
OLLI member Frank “Doug” Dickey passed away on January 9, 2025, while on vacation in The Bahamas. A 1976 graduate of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA, with a BS in mathematics and studies in computer science, he enjoyed photography. At OLLI, he was a member of the Photography Club.
There will be a celebration of life for Doug on Saturday, February 1 at 1:00 in Reston at The Lake House, 11450 Baron Cameron Avenue. Further information is available at this link.
By Linda Monson, D.M.A., Mason Distinguished Service Professor, and Linda Harber, Friends of Music at Mason Co–President
Here are some upcoming free Mason Music concerts at Mason's Harris Theatre on some Sundays through March 2. All of these Sunday programs will be great performances by talented Dewberry Music School faculty.
On Tuesday, February 25, the spring semester student music concerts begin with the Mason Bands Concert at 8:00 in the Center for the Arts Concert Hall. Please check the website and look for more information on the variety of upcoming Mason Music. See you there!
Dewberry Faculty Artist Series at George Mason University Free Sunday performances in Harris Theater Sunday, January 26 at 3:00 Nuove Frontiere
David Porter, tuba; Caroline Steiger, horn
Sunday, February 16 at 3:00 The Spheres Project
June Huang, violin; Taylor Fleshman, harp
Gerald Fowkes, cello; Thomas J. Wible, flute
Sunday, February 23 at 3:00 Duo-Piano Silver Anniversary Concert
Linda Apple Monson & Anna Balakerskaia, pianists
Sunday, March 2 at 3:00
Kathleen Gardiner Mulcahy, clarinet, with
Caroline Steiger, horn; Eunae Ko Han, piano
Sunday, March 2 at 7:00
Jesse Guessford, composition
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.
Silkroad Ensemble: Percussion All-Stars
Sat, Jan 25, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Dances for the Ears
Sun, Jan 26, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Branford Marsalis
Sat, Feb 1, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $46.
Mike Super – Magic & Illusion
Sun, Feb 2, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $40, $30, $20.
GMU School of Theater: Mason Cabaret 2025
Fri, Jan 31, 8:00
Sat, Feb 1, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Feb 2, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $30 Adult, $15 Senior.
Faculty Artist Series: Nuove Frontiere
Dr. Caroline Steiger, horn and Dr. David Porter, tuba
Sun, Jan 26, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
American Youth Philharmonic Orchestra Sat, Jan 18, 3:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $10.
ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: Les Miserables – Youth Edition Fri, Jan 24, 7:00 Sat, Jan 25, 2:00 and 7:00 Sun, Jan 26, 2:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $25 Adult, $20 Senior.
Graham Breedlove Group, American Roots Series Sat, Jan 25, 5:00 Gregory Family Theater 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, 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. 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 Jan 25
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jan 27
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Family History/Genealogy Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jan 28
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jan 29
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
1:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Thu Jan 30
3:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jan 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 Feb 1
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 3
4:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 4
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Feb 6
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Feb 7
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Dance 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, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Tom 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.
Notice: Executive Director Jennifer Disano will be transitioning out of her position after more than ten years of extraordinary service to OLLI. E-News extends best wishes for continued success in her future career.
OLLI Personal Computer User Group 3rd Saturday meeting is January 18 (tomorrow) in person and via Zoom; check the OLLI daily schedule email for link and other information.
Registration for winter term continues. There are several courses with space available; register today at the member portal.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, January 24; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, January 21, at 6:00.
President Debbie Engleson called the OLLI Board of Directors meeting to order at 10:00 on Friday, 15 November 2024, in room TA-1 at Tallwood; present were thirteen Board members (including four officers) and the Executive Director.
The president noted OLLI closings for the holidays and stated that the OLLI holiday party had more than 100 people (including staff) registered to attend.
Executive Director Jennifer Disano reported that OLLI membership is stabilizing with about 950 current members. She noted that OLLI has given $20,000 in scholarships to Mason students, helping maintain interest among Mason instructors to teach at OLLI. There were 160 classes plus clubs and other activities at OLLI during the fall term.
Treasurer Richard Crawford reported that OLLI expenditures and income are tracking well. IRS Form 990 was reviewed by the Finance Committee and Treasurer to meet the annual deadline. The budget will continue to have a reserve line for potential equipment replacement for our classrooms.
Under New Business, the Board discussed a resolution to approve the 2024 OLLI tax return (IRS Form 990); the resolution was tabled pending Board review of the form. In other new business, OLLI anticipates contracting with Silverstone Corporation (owner of several retirement communities in Northern Virginia) to provide 15 classes annually for $45,000; courses and instructors are to be determined.
By Camille Hodges, OLLI Board Member and Chair of the Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group
If you are still looking for resolutions to make in the New Year, look no further. Take the challenge and teach a course at OLLI, specifically in Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events. Some suggested topics include, but are not limited to: multicultural topics, intergenerational topics, the future of American education, the Pullman porters influence in American history, the future of politics in America, the psychology of surviving politics, or your own course idea. Classes continue to be in-person, virtual, and hybrid.
Remember, when schools are closed due to the weather, OLLI classes are cancelled.
Hopefully, you will consider teaching a class in 2025. Currently, we are looking at the following schedule:
- summer 2025 course proposals are due: January 27
- fall 2025 course proposals are due: April 7.
OLLI Mason Seeks Spanish and Other Language Instructors
By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group
For many years, OLLI Mason has been able to offer beginning, intermediate, or conversational Spanish classes on a regular basis. At the moment, our regular instructors are no longer available. In the past, have been able to offer French language classes as well. If you are a Spanish, French, or other language speaker and are comfortable teaching or know of individuals who might be interested, please contact me at [email protected].
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers' Group
On Sunday, February 2 at 2pm, the Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) will attend Mason's student performance of Broadway's Prince: The Musicals of Hal Prince at the Harris Theater in Fairfax. If you enjoyed seeing the Phantom of the Opera, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Westside Story, Cabaret, and Sweeney Todd, then you will love this celebratory musical salute to the legendary Hal Prince, who changed musical theater on Broadway forever. Senior tickets are $15, plus a fee. Phone 703-993-1120 for tickets. Optional preshow lunch will be at Oh George at noon.
On Saturday, February 8 at 2pm, TLG will return to 1stStage in Tysons to see The Lake Effect. It takes place in Cleveland in a small Indian restaurant during a snowstorm when an Indian American brother and sister reunite after being estranged for years. A moving story of family, relationships, secrets, and finding a way forward. Tickets are $25/$40/$55. Phone 703-854-1856. Tell them you are with OLLI Theater Group. Preshow lunch TBD.
On Sunday, February 16, TLG will go to the Creative Cauldron's new home next to Whole Foods on corner of Route 7 and Lee Highway to see Steel Magnolias. This heartfelt and hilarious story takes place in Louisiana, specifically in Truvy's Beauty Salon where all the ladies gather to chat, gossip, and bond. Tickets are $40 (group rate with 10 people). Email Norma if you are interested in going. When we get ten people, we will purchase the tickets. Preshow lunch TBD.
When you register for classes, remember to sign up for the Theater Lovers' Group to keep getting emails about TLG events. If you have any questions, email me at [email protected]. Everyone is invited to join TLG - a very engaged and fun group.
Editor’s note: At the author’s request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
The January 2025 Photo of the Month theme was Cell Phone Photos. We selected Margie Wildblood's photo "Australian Shepherd," 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
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Our topic for discussion on Wednesday, January 22, is Online Subscription Services.
Let’s talk about Amazon, Amazon Prime, and similar subscription services. Love them, tolerate them, use them, hate them? Everyone has an opinion—share yours with us.
Join us on the 24/7 OLLI Chat Line at 4:00 Wednesday, January 22, and let us know how you feel about this topic. No sign-up required.
Click here for the Zoom link;
Meeting ID: 889 4635 8407
Passcode: 772491
Dial-in: 301-715-8592.
Forrest (Bob) Hanvey, OLLI member from 2015-2020, died December 4, 2024. He was born in San Diego, California, in 1933.
Bob graduated from the US Naval Academy in the class of 1957, first in the class as the honors graduate. He was commissioned in the Air Force and completed a master’s degree in aerospace engineering. Assigned to Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico, he pioneered work on inertial guidance technology. After leaving active duty, he led a team at Western Union developing their first programmable line interface. Subsequently, he was Vice President of Communications Systems at Citicorp.
There will be a private burial will be in Prince Frederick, Maryland. Later, plans will be announced for a celebration of his life. More information is available at this link.
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.
Silkroad Ensemble Sat, Jan 25, 8:00 A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain. Concert Hall Admission: $55, $47, $33.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Dances for the Ears Sun, Jan 26, 7:00 Concert Hall Admission: $50, $43, $29.
American Youth Philharmonic Orchestra Sat, Jan 18, 3:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $10.
ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: Les Miserables – Youth Edition Fri, Jan 24, 7:00 Sat, Jan 25, 2:00 and 7:00 Sun, Jan 26, 2:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $25 Adult, $20 senior.
Graham Breedlove Group, American Roots Series Sat, Jan 25, 5:00 Gregory Family Theater 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, 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. 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 Jan 18
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Jan 20
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jan 21
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi 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, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Tom 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.
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, January 18, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Shopping for and Buying Hearing Aids—Presented by Gabe Goldberg
Over several years, hearing tests suggested that I was heading for using hearing aids. When the time arrived, researching device and provider choices was more complicated than I had realized. I evaluated several brands and models at very different price points and found a service that saved me about $2500 with only a very modest reduction in service―which I still don't fully understand.
This experience occurred just as Direct-to-Consumer devices were becoming available, so I can't discuss these. But having been served by a practice with Doctors of Audiology (people with Au.D. credentials), I would be reluctant to make a self-service selection and setup, or even work with a lesser-qualified licensed hearing aid provider.
Buying hearing aids involves multiple tradeoffs and significant expense. The most useful advice may be to do plenty of research and not immediately purchase the first devices suggested by the first provider visited. Those may be the best choice but evaluate others.
Bonus: This will be a duet with my Au.D., who'll present the provider perspective on hearing aid devices.
In developing and supporting technology, Gabe has written and presented for diverse audiences, from consumers to industry experts. He's also involved in DC-area and national tech groups helping people use, enjoy, and benefit from these modern marvels.
Learn in 30: Flight Radar 24—Presented by Bill Walsh
Bill will demonstrate and discuss new features of this aircraft tracking program.
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 last year!) —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 952879 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 8124 5733 563 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
Our topic for discussion on Wednesday, January 8, is Poetry.
Poetry―literary work in which special intensity is given to the expression of feelings and ideas by the use of distinctive style and rhythm; poems collectively, or as a genre of literature.
Poetry―literature that evokes a concentrated imaginative awareness of experience or a specific emotional response through language chosen and arranged for its meaning, sound, and rhythm.
Is a poem a little machine? A firework? An echo? A dream?
Above are a few definitions of poetry, taken from the Internet. But they describe attributes, rather than definitions, in my opinion. Which, if any, do you agree with? Can you suggest a better definition? Are you a poetry lover? Or do you wish that you could appreciate the genre more fully?
Let's share our opinions about poetry via the 24/7 Chat Line on January 8th at 4:00. No need to sign up – just zoom on in. We hope that some of our OLLI members who enjoy reading and/or writing poetry will join us.
We need a couple of new editors! It’s not a full-time job—it’s a great way to support OLLI with only a little effort every few weeks. By serving one day every four or five weeks as Editor of the Week, you can have a positive impact on OLLI and enjoy a pleasant journalistic experience. We’ll even give you a button that you can wear on your OLLI badge to celebrate your contribution!
E‑News is one of several OLLI publications that is created using MailChimp software. We will teach you what you need to know to be able to put together an E-News issue. You don’t have to generate content, which generally is submitted by OLLI-member coordinators for committees, clubs, and activities. If you are interested and have questions or would like to know more, please contact me at [email protected]. Thanks!
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.
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 Jan 4
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jan 6
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Reading Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jan 7
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jan 8
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
2:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Thu Jan 9
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 – online
Fri Jan 10
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
2:30 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Jan 11
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jan 13
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 Jan 14
10:00 am
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Large Program Planning Group Meeting
How to Zoom – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jan 15
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
12:00 noon
4:00 pm
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Staff Meeting
Spanish Club – online
Thu Jan 16
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jan 17
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Jan 18
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
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, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Tom 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.
the art of photographing small—Mugg, an accomplished wildlife photographer, will talk about some of his other photographic adventures, including his trip to Brazil's amazing Pantanal area. His photos can be viewed on his website at 
The OPC meeting begins at 9:30 in person at Tallwood or on Zoom (Zoom codes are available each day in the OLLI daily schedule email.)
poems, fiction, personal essays, and memoirs, for its 2025 edition.
was written as a tribute to the playwright's sister. It takes place in Truvy's in-home beauty salon in a fictional northwestern Louisiana parish where the friends meet to bond and help each other cope. 
and very popular “Frontiersmen” series. Next Wednesday, Jim’s presentation will be titled Stampede to the Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush. The news of the discovery of gold in the Canadian Yukon territory in 1897 electrified millions suffering from the effects of an economic depression. The sensational and often inaccurate news stories led to an epidemic of “gold fever” and sparked a stampede to that remote and forbidding region. The results were dramatic and heroic for the lucky few; but tragic and often lethal for the vast majority seeking instant wealth. Hubris and greed were on full display; brotherly love was in short supply.
Forrest Robert Hanvey, Jr.
We need a couple of new editors! It’s not a full-time job—it’s a great way to support OLLI with only a little effort every few weeks. By serving one day every four or five weeks as Editor of the Week, you can have a positive impact on OLLI and enjoy a pleasant journalistic experience. We’ll even give you a button that you can wear on your OLLI badge to celebrate your contribution!