By Marilyn Harriman, Board Member and Nominating Committee Chair
Congratulations to the following members elected to the OLLI Board of Directors in the 2024 election:
Toni Acton
Dick Crawford
Camille Hodges
Suresh Mohla
Zach Teich
Thank you to all of the candidates for your willingness to run for election to serve on the OLLI Board of Directors.
By Harry Johnson and Camille Hodges, Diversity Committee Co-Chairs, and
Debby Mossburg, Outreach Committee Chair
Northern Virginia is a community rich in diversity. OLLI Mason―frankly—is not. As avid learners looking to expand our awareness of the world around us, we believe that attracting more members from communities such as Black/African American, Asian, Latino, and other under-represented NOVA communities will only enrich our own experiences at OLLI. To accomplish this goal, we need your help. If you have a connection to any of these communities, we’d like to explore with you ways that we can introduce them to OLLI and share information about the benefits of OLLI membership. Such inroads might be through community centers, clubs and organizations, newsletters, gathering places, and other venues yet to be discovered. We’re looking for volunteers who simply want to offer ideas and suggestions, as well as those who may want a more active role in our outreach effort. We value your input and are looking forward to hearing from you. Please email us at olli.gmu.edu with Diversity in the subject line.
Have you witnessed history in the making? If so, OLLI wants your story for a fall 2024 class entitled I Was There. The class will present the personal stories, photos, and videos of OLLI members who participated in important historical events, either at or behind the scenes. The stories might include, for example, Vietnam, subsequent combat activity, presence at the Tiananmen Square protest, or deliberations in the halls of power about what US policy should be in response to world events. Please email John Quinn at skinsnats@gmail.com with information about what you did or saw. John will contact you to work out the details.
If you love knowledge and competition, consider joining us on Thursdays for trivia at Kalypso’s in Reston (same complex as the Lake Anne Osher campus). We play as a team (Los Viejos).
The game starts at 7:00. Andi and I are usually there around 6:30 to hold a table. If you decide to give it a try, please text or e-mail in advance: (423) 524-5149 and amount1963@gmail.com.
Update: Our inaugural session was somewhat of a roller-coaster. However, we managed a respectable 4th place finish thanks to the final question. Final question: What word is based on the Greek words for “sharp” and “dull.”
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group
NYC Your Way November 19-20, 2024
We're spreading the news to all OLLI members that a party bus will leave Fairfax for an overnight stay at the Marriott Marquis Times Square Hotel on Tuesday, November 19. We'll get to The Big Apple mid-afternoon in time to have a fabulous dinner and see a show of your choice that evening. Next day, Wednesday, November 20, you will have plenty of time to do your own thing—shop for the holidays, take a city tour, visit a museum, see a matinee performance, see Rockefeller Center dressed for the holidays, etc.—before leaving late afternoon to return home about 11:00. Overnight parking is free.
Ask Trevor
Need help with discount tickets, making restaurant reservations, and planning what to do? No problem! Our seasoned tour guide Trevor Major is on hand to answer all your questions. Phone him at 804-869-5285 or email him at trevor2@gmail.com. OLLI members will be meeting with Trevor via Zoom on Tuesday, June 25 at 2:00—be sure to sign up for the meeting. Participants will meet later at OLLI so we can coordinate who wants to do what and when.
Deposit Due
The cost of lodging, transportation, handling of luggage, etc. is $525 double or $675 single. Also included is a $45 voucher for a breakfast at the Marriott.
To hold your space, a deposit of $250 is due now. Make the check payable to Champlain Tours and mail it ASAP to Champlain Tours, PO Box 8585, Burlington, VT 05402.
Please email Norma at njreck@cs.com if you need more information and if you will be joining us on the trip so we can coordinate.
Help spread the news to your friends and family. Remember that guests are always welcome and need not be OLLI members.
On May 10, an adventuresome and curious group of OLLI members drove out to the Chantilly area of Loudoun County to spend the morning at the National Botanic Garden. After an introductory talk in the Stone Barn, we had time to explore the various garden areas and to view the whimsical Hobbit Town and Folly Castle, both of which were constructed from reclaimed materials.
Interesting sculptures are scattered throughout the park. Members interested in horticulture embarked on an informative walking tour to learn about the various types of cacti, bamboo, and other plants on the grounds. In all, it was an enjoyable way to spend a Friday morning at this little-known gem of Northern Virginia. See photos at the top of the issue.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will host discussions both on June 5 and June 12 at 4:00.
Our topic for June 5 at 4:00 is When Did Your Family Arrive in America? This is partly genealogy, partly family lore. Also why did they leave their previous home and immigrate? Who and what did they leave behind? There are likely lots of stories to be told behind the scenes and shared with us all.
The topic for June 12 is Book Club Varieties. There has recently been a spotlight thrown on book clubs that do not follow the traditional pattern—for example, the “Silent Book Club,” which we talked about a few months ago. Another variation is a topic-based club, where each member reads a book based on the “assigned” topic, such as WWI biography, and each then enlightens all the club members at the next meeting on what they learned or enjoyed. Another variant is the Online Book Club, where the members never get together in person. Still one more type is refreshment-based, where the nibbles served reflect the chosen book’s setting(s). What’s your preference?
Feel free to join us on Zoom using the 24/7 Chat Line login. Our conversations usually run about an hour, and we encourage you to participate. Everyone gets an opportunity to share their opinions and we all learn a lot.
Team Bloch conducts our Wednesday Conversation every week, but there is no need to register or otherwise commit to joining in. It’s all ad hoc.
The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS) on Saturday, June 15, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
It’s All About the Drone/Fairfax County Public Safety UAS Program—Presented by Roy Shrout
Drones can be found in almost every city and county in the United States. In 2020 alone, around 1 million consumer drones were purchased in North America. As of December 31, 2023, the FAA reports that they have 790,918 drones registered in their database. This includes 369,528 commercial drones, 416,095 recreational drones, and 5,295 paper registrations. There are 368,604 individuals who are certified as Part 107 Remote Pilots. To help keep safety as a key component to anyone who flies a drone, the FAA implemented a new safety program called TRUST in June 2021. The law requires that all recreational flyers must first pass a short aeronautical knowledge and safety test prior to flying their drone. So far 667,165 persons have passed this test.
The presentation will focus on two parts.
Part 1: Drone Basics: show and tell and a few videos
What types of drones are available to the public?
What can you do with them?
Safety
Where and when are you allowed to fly (airspace, weather, parks, applicable law)?
Types of required certification/training
Registration
Part 2: Fairfax County Public Safety Program
What steps were used to create the program?
What is the program?
How is it being used today?
The talk will also address the concerns and issues that continue to be raised regarding internationally manufactured drones and what happens if they are banned.
Roy Shrout served as the Deputy Coordinator of Emergency Management for the Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management from 2006 until he retired in April 2020.
This session will include a PC and Tech Support Clinic in the Annex; you must register in advance for clinic and be a member of OPCUG or PATACS to receive assistance from our tech helpers. Click here to access the clinic link.
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 2024 (and 2023, if you didn’t get around to paying earlier in the 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 389574 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 857 2717 9449 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
Ephemera
The loving couple collected the slenderest of twigs
To build a fragile nest in our neighbors’ cherry tree.
In mere days she laid three pure white eggs.
Two weeks later they hatched into greedy mouths
That quickly grew and flew away.
The flimsy nest soon fell apart
As if it had never been.
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.
National Community Band Festival: Day 1
Sat, Jun 1, 4:00-9:00
Clark County Community Band 4:00
City of Falls Church Ensemble 5:15
The Main Street Community Ensemble 6:15
Herndon Regional Wind Ensemble 7:45
Center for the Arts
Admission: $19 Adult, $16 Senior.
National Community Band Festival: Day 2
Sun, Jun 2, 1:00
The Cathedral Brass
Arlington Concert Band
Fairfax Wind Symphony
Center for the Arts
Admission: $19 Adult, $16 Senior.
Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: Celebrating Gershwin at 100
Sun, Jun 9, 4:00
Center for the Arts
Admission: $65, $55, $40.
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 Jun 1
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jun 3
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Bridge Club
Poetry Reading Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue Jun 4
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jun 5
10:30 am
4:00 pm
The Investment Forum
Spanish Club – online
Thu Jun 6
11:50 am
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jun 7
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
Mah Jongg Club
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Homer, etc. – online
Sat Jun 8
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jun 10
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Bridge Club
Poetry Writing Club – online
Tue Jun 11
10:00 am
4:30 pm
LLT Program Planning Group Meeting – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jun 12
10:00 am
10:30 am
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
The Investment Forum
Mah Jongg Club – online
Thu Jun 13
11:50 am
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jun 14
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
2:30 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club – online
Sat Jun 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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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.
Professional Photographer Stan Bysshe Treated the Photo Club to an Informative Review of the Evolution of His Career Development and Changing Photographic Technology, with Photos,May 10
I wanted to communicate to you that my term as president comes to an end in June 2024 when a new president and executive committee of the Board of Directors will be elected. I spent the last two years working to effectively represent OLLI and lead the Institute in a progressive and sustainable direction. It has been my honor to serve as your president and I am proud of the work that was accomplished during my tenure.
My first year as president was during the aftermath of COVID-19. By that I mean that it took a long time for us to recover and feel comfortable around people. In those days, we were still wearing masks and distancing. Our membership numbers were declining, even though OLLI continued offering a rich program through Zoom. We also faced a budget deficit related to the decrease in membership. It was time for the Board to look at other ways to secure funding and memberships in tandem with the outstanding and continual work of the Outreach Committee. We began to engage with residential retirement communities to see if we could offer some of our classes for a fee. At first, we didn’t get much interest, but, once Silverstone properties entered into an agreement with us, it seemed like the dam opened up, and now we have several prospects for other lucrative partnerships. Our new contractual partnerships raised the need to have outside legal advice on this and other matters on a precautionary basis. We were able to secure a respected law firm to represent OLLI, on retainer, and on an as-needed basis.
In an effort to connect with the Fairfax community, I discovered that we were offering some classes for free in Fairfax public libraries. Jennifer Disano and I met several times with Supervisor Herrity, then chair of the Older Adults Committee. As a result of those meetings, OLLI has received funding from Fairfax County Public Library system for the past two years. At a recent meeting with Supervisor Alcorn, who took over as chair of the Older Adults Committee, we discovered other areas that we could tap into with the County that have the potential for revenue and recruitment of new members.
With the support of the Board, I reinstated the travel committee which offered exciting travel opportunities for OLLI members. It is important that more members consider these exciting trips both in the U.S. and abroad. OLLI works with travel agencies that give us a percentage of the revenue received from OLLI travelers. We have received our first payment from the Iceland trip that we sponsored.
The OLLI strategic plan called for more diversity in our membership. The Board approved the establishment of a Diversity Committee as a standing committee, reporting directly to the president. That committee is exploring ways to attract various ethnic and racial groups that may not know about OLLI and would be interested in what OLLI has to offer. The goals are to improve the diversity of our members, provide more classes of ethnically diverse interest, and at the same time, grow as an organization.
These efforts resulted in a budget with a healthy surplus for this year. OLLI is financially stable, but there are a lot of things that we can do with that surplus. One example involves the Board review of ways to enhance programming in Loudoun and Reston after the closing of the Mason facility at Loudoun. A small group of Board members are discussing alternatives and possible rentals for class space in Loudoun/Reston and will bring some thoughts to the Board to consider in the months ahead.
Our relationship with George Mason is excellent. Jennifer and I met with the temporary provost, but a new provost is coming on board, and it will be important to continue to foster a good relationship with that office. This year President Gregory Washington spoke at our Teacher Appreciation Dinner as we distributed scholarships to students from 17 different departments. It is clear that the University takes great pride in affiliating with OLLI Mason.
Lastly, my experience as OLLI president has heightened my resolve to keep our Institute thriving and I plan to continue that goal as a Board member this year. I have learned that we can only enhance the intellectual and social aspects of OLLI with volunteers. OLLI is fortunate to have an excellent staff and Executive Director, but we will always need volunteers from our membership for events, teaching classes, program planning, joining a committee, and even serving on the Board. I encourage members to think of ways they can help OLLI. We all have skills to contribute that can enrich the OLLI experience.
Thank you, OLLI members, for your support during these last two years.
Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Meeting May 23
By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-Chair
Here is the information for our meeting next week. Feel free to invite anyone you wish to join us as we begin planning for the 2025 winter term.
Topic: Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events (HSS/CE) Program Planning Group meeting
Time: May 23, 2024, 10:00 Eastern Time (US and Canada) Click on this link to join the Zoom meeting (the link will also appear in the emailed May 23 OLLI Daily Schedule).
Meeting ID: 987 6090 1798
One tap mobile +12678310333,,98760901798# US (Philadelphia) +13017158592,,98760901798# US (Washington DC)
Dial by your location +1 267 831 0333 US (Philadelphia) +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
Find your local number: https://gmu.zoom.us/u/awDnslnyA
Join by SIP 98760901798@zoomcrc.com
If you love knowledge, learning and competition, come join us this summer for Trivia night!
The plan is to meet on Thursdays for Pour House trivia, which seems to be the best fit for our age group. We are currently trying to decide between Kalypso’s in Reston and Solace Outpost in Falls Church. If you have questions or would like to be on the list, please send your contact info to amount1963@gmail.com or call/text (423) 524-5149.
In the meantime, I'll keep everyone up to date on our progress, including a weekly status report and the “final question.”
The Tallwood Book Club will switch to Zoom meetings for June, July, and August. The meetings will be on the second Friday of each month from 2:30-4:00. Scheduled books are as follows:
June 14 Tastes Like War by Margaret Cho
July 12 Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Nancy Horan
August 9 Moloka’i by Alan Brenner
The Zoom link will be shown on the OLLI Daily Schedule for each date.
The May 2024 Photo of the Month theme was Springtime. We selected Cookie (Ellen) Hilert's photo "Pond at Burke Center," which may also be viewed at this page. To view other photos by members of the Photography Club, visit the club's photo website.
-- By John Olsen and Ed Marion, Photography Club Coordinators
Dennis Halpin, OLLI member from fall 2019 to December2023, died at home in Burke, Virginia, on April 19. A lifelong learner, Dennis earned a BA degree in political science and history from Loyola University and studied journalism at Columbia University. He was a Peace Corps volunteer, teaching English in Korea.
Dennis served as a congressional staffer on the House of Representatives International Relations Committee, rallying Congress to pass legislation such as the North Korean Human Rights Act of 2004. He promoted human rights in both Koreas during his career.
An avid reader, Dennis had a passion for languages and mastered Korean, Chinese, and Italian throughout his life, and he continued to pursue new interests and expand his interests at OLLI.
A Catholic funeral mass will be held at 11:30 on Saturday, May 18, at Saint Mary's of Sorrows Parish, 5222 Sideburn Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22032. Following the mass, there will be a funeral reception in Fairfax at Auld Shebeen, 3971 Chain Bridge Road, in the Cellar Room from 1:30-4:30, with a live Celtic band. Additionally, a Buddhist funeral will take place from 11:00 until 3:00 on Sunday, May 19, at Bub Hwa Buddhist Temple, 7202 Poplar Street, Annandale, Virginia, with a lunch provided at the Temple.
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.
National Community Band Festival: Day 1
Sat, Jun 1, 4:00-9:00
Clark County Community Band 4:00
City of Falls Church Ensemble 5:15
The Main Street Community Ensemble 6:15
Herndon Regional Wind Ensemble 7:45
Center for the Arts
Admission: $19 Adult, $16 Senior.
National Community Band Festival: Day 2
Sun, Jun 2, 1:00
The Cathedral Brass
Arlington Concert Band
Fairfax Wind Symphony
Center for the Arts
Admission: $19 Adult, $16 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., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat May 18
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon May 20
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue May 21
9:30 am
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Annex Art – online
Gentle Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 22
10:00 am
10:30 am
4:00 pm
Bridge Club
Investment Forum – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Thu May 23
10:00 am
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Humanities & Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group – online
All the News – online
Gentle Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 24
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Mah Jongg Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Photography Club
Sat May 25
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 27
11:00 am
Poetry Reading Club – online
Tue May 28
9:30 am
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Annex Art – online
Gentle Yoga Club
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 29
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 30
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News – online
Gentle Yoga Club
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri May 31
9:30 am
11:00 am
2:30 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Caregivers Group – 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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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.
Cinco de Mayo Celebration Hosted by Diversions Chair Marilyn Harriman, May 3, at Tallwood; Members Brought Food to Accompany OLLI-provided Tacos and Enjoyed Mexican Dancing and Breaking a Piñata
May 10, 2024
Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents
Alerts & Notices
You should have received an email on May 3 with a link to a ballot for the Board of Directors election, which goes through May 17 at noon. If you did not receive this (check your spam/junk folders), contact the OLLI office at olli@gmu.edu.
Summer-term registration begins May 14 (the term begins June 24).
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, May 17; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, May 14, at 6:00.
On Friday, May 3, OLLI Executive Director, Jennifer Disano, opened our annual business meeting and reported that our membership is currently at 928. Our major income is from annual membership dues, which is why Jennifer emphasized our main goal this year is recruiting new people! We are also working with senior living facilities like The Mather as they open their residences, to introduce and assist residents to join OLLI. In addition to member donations, we are increasing program sales to provide lectures for a fee at senior facilities (Silverstone, Landing, Providence). The Fairfax County Public Library system has renewed our contract, and we are investigating contracts with Loudoun and Prince William Counties.
We have acquired some new staff and instructors to continue providing robust, diverse, and interesting classes on Zoom, in person, and hybrid. Additionally, we provide many outside activities through clubs, tours, parties, and functions, as well as travel to Iceland and next year to the Albuquerque balloon festival and to Japan. With the closure of Mason’s Loudoun facility, we are investigating alternative locations in the Loudoun and Reston areas for classes and meetings. In the City of Fairfax, we are monitoring the proposed Arts Center for potential future use as well.
Retiring OLLI President Lillian Brooks noted that our change in business approach returning from COVID and the use of Zoom/hybrid classes has resulted in an increasing yet balanced budget. In the past two years, Lillian and Jennifer have been instrumental in working with many people and organizations to help make this transition. Additionally, OLLI has a relationship with an attorney to be used as needed. OLLI Election Chair Marilyn Harriman introduced the five 2024 Board member candidates to the forum; Toni Acton, Dick Crawford, Camille Hodges, and Zach Teich are current Board members running for another term, and Suresh Mohla is a very experienced manager from the field of cancer research and management. Marilyn asked a number of questions for the candidates to discuss their management and organizational experiences. The candidates also took questions from OLLI members; each discussed how they could best apply their talents and experiences as a director on the board. OLLI has emailed voting instructions and a link to your ballot. Voting began on May 3 and ends at noon on May 17.
Literature, Language, Theater, and Writing Program Planning Group to Meet June 11
By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Language, Theater, and Writing (LLT) Program Planning Group Co-Chair
Date: Tuesday, June 11 Time: 10:00-11:30
We need your thoughts and ideas. Whether you enjoy the classics or spy novels, sci-fi, or memoir, want to read poetry, learn a language, explore playwrights and the world of theater, or hone your writing skills, the LLT Program Planning Group would love to hear from you.
Please join us for our semi-annual all-campus program planning group meeting for literature, language, theater, and writing program planning on Tuesday June 11 at 10:00 via Zoom.
We will be reviewing past terms and looking forward to planning winter 2024 and beyond. All OLLI members can contribute to the excellent programming offered to our membership. Bring ideas for literature, language, theater, and writing programs, and possible instructor resources for this popular programming area. And, of course, if you or anyone you know would like to join our committee, here is your opportunity to see the process in action. Spread the word. See you on June 11.
Click this link from Shannon Morrow, our staff program associate, for the Zoom meeting. We will send a reminder closer to the meeting and the link will be available on the Daily Schedule. If you would like to be added to our LLT mailing list for a reminder, please email Pat Bangs at: pbangs68@gmail.com.
Meeting ID: 992 1591 3405
One tap mobile
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+12678310333,,99215913405# US (Philadelphia)
Dial by your location
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 267 831 0333 US (Philadelphia)
Find your local number: https://gmu.zoom.us/u/amm98Dnx4
Join by SIP 99215913405@zoomcrc.com.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate a Zoom discussion on May 15 at 4:00.
The topic for May 15: What is the Ideal Number of Children a Person Should Aim For? This may prove to be an interesting discussion, as each of us might have widely diverse opinions to share. Join Team Bloch on Wednesday at 4:00 for what likely will be a lively hour of conversation. No sign-up needed; we convene informally every Wednesday afternoon on the OLLI 24/7 Chat Line.
Check your OLLI Daily Schedule for the Zoom link on Wednesday May 15 and join us to share your thoughts.
OK, maybe the title's a bit corny but spring has arrived and, with the warm temperatures, is quickly turning into summer! We again enjoyed the daffodils and dogwoods while the azaleas are making their final display. Fall in Virginia is beautiful, but spring here is simply fantastic, in my opinion. Maybe it's because the drab winter months have finally gone.
Spring is also a time for laying out our travel calendars, joining family gatherings – my family has an annual reunion in Texas where we see how each of us as aged, enjoy great barbecue, and tell the same old stories...still laughing at them like they were new – enjoying cook-outs with friends, and planning vacations. We probably should have done the latter this winter to get the best deals but there's still time to plan and enjoy a nice trip. Even day trips in the local area are great but do require some planning to avoid saying, “Oops, my calendar is filled up then!”
We recently received the summer OLLI catalog with its usual offerings of great classes and programs. With both Zoom and in-person activities, you should take some time to select a few that keep you involved with a great program and some wonderful friends. A little planning now will keep you engaged, and your time filled with worthwhile activities.
Remember, lay out your calendar now that includes signing up for summer OLLI classes and programs. Spring is here and you should be, too!
The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS) on Saturday, May 18, 2024, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Microsoft Copilot—Presented by Lorrin Garson
Artificial intelligence (AI), the ability of a computer to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings, is a rapidly progressing technology. Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered assistant that can provide a variety of information: e.g., cite sources of information, create poems and songs, create images, write computer code in multiple languages, translate between languages, create drafts of documents. Copilot is available on the web (https://copilot.microsoft.com), PCs, and Apple computers. Numerous examples of Copilot's capabilities will be presented.
Lorrin Garson had a long career in technical publishing of chemical information. His presentations to our computer groups are famous for their thorough research and clarity in explaining topics such as cryptography, encryption of personal data, cloud storage, and the origins of personal computers.
Learn in 30: Good/Safe Practices in the Digital Age—Presented by Roger Fujii
This talk will briefly cover what people should and should not do in the complex world we live in. While the intent is not to raise the anxiety level of anyone, people should be aware of what is out there and how to reasonably protect oneself. Unfortunately, some things are beyond your control, but this discussion will go over what people can do to minimize bad things happening.
Roger Fujii has helped OLLI with technology challenges for its email and LAN systems since 2006, and 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 2024 (and 2023, if you didn’t get around to paying earlier in the 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 389574 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 857 2717 9449 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
If you love knowledge and learning, and enjoy competition, come join us for trivia night! The plan is to meet weekly at a restaurant for Pour House trivia, which seems to be the best fit for our age group.
My wife and I are volunteering as coordinators. We envision an inclusive group in which everyone gets to participate. The only rules are to respect the game and each other.
If you have questions or would like to be on the list, please send your contact info to amount1963@gmail.com or call (423) 524-5149. We'll try to find a venue that works best on either Mondays or Thursdays.
In the meantime, I'll try to keep everyone up on our progress.
There is an art to removing a table leaf, an extender, from the dining table by yourself. Those who live alone discover this. The guests have gone, it’s time to restore extra space to the dining room. First you unlatch the locks holding the leaf in place. Standing at one end of the table give a quick, sharp pull toward yourself hoping for a sizeable space to appear. If lucky, you have room to reach into the space and pull said leaf from its neighbors, lifting it out. Lean it in a stable position and return to the end of the table. Push toward the opposite end. With luck, the inner edges come together and you may lock them into place. If not, move the table against a large object, the wall, bookshelves, stand-in for another pair of hands, and repeat the push bringing open edges together. Lock them into place. Push chairs back into position.
Remind self to ask a guest next time to help complete this task,
a condition of allowing them to depart. –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.
Creative and Performing Arts Center (CAPAC): Crowns, A Gospel Musical
Sat, May 11, 2:00
Sun, May 12, 3:00
Sat, May 18, 2:00
Sun, May 19, 3:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30 Adult, $12 Senior.
Pied Piper Theatre: The Wizard of Oz
Sat, May 11, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, May 12, 2:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30 Adult, $25 Senior.
Manassas Ballet Theatre:Romeo and Juliet Fri, May 17, 7:30 Sat, May 18, 3:00 and 7:30 Sun, May 19, 3:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $65, $55, $45, $35, $25.
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week, but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat May 11
10:00 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 13
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue May 14
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 15
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 16
11:50 am
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Reston Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 17
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
2:30 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Caregivers Group – online
Sat May 18
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon May 20
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue May 21
9:30 am
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Annex Art – online
Gentle Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 22
10:00 am
10:30 am
4:00 pm
Bridge Club
Investment Forum – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Thu May 23
10:00 am
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Humanities & Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group – online
All the News – online
Gentle Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 24
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Mah Jongg Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Photography Club
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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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.
New and Continuing Members Shared Conversation at the Grab ‘n’ Gab Coffee Klatch Hosted
by Toni Acton, April 26 at Tallwood
May 3, 2024
Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents
Alerts & Notices
Notice/Reminder: Please be aware that no OLLI staff will email you with a request to purchase a gift card or share banking information. Be suspicious that any such email is likely to be a scam.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, May 10; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, May 7, at 6:00.
From the Desk of the Executive Director Grand Opening of The Mather Lending Library
By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director
On April 29, OLLI Mason Board members and staff visited The Mather senior living community in Tysons, along with community partners, to celebrate the grand opening of The Mather library. Organizations like the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Northern Virginia, the Alan Cheuse International Writers Center, Fall for the Book, Watershed Lit Center for Literary Engagement and Publishing Practice, the College of Visual & Performing Arts (CVPA), and so many more, shared in the curation of The Mather’s beautiful new lending library. At the celebration residents learned about community connections and partner organizations, explored OLLI Mason offerings, and listened to an amazing presentation and performance by Dewberry School of Music Pianist Samuel Beckett Kim. Special thanks to Jen Morrow of Bards Alley for her expert work in the selection and stocking of the library shelves. Also, thanks to the The Mather staff for all their hard work! Kudos to everyone!
On Friday, April 26, a group of OLLI members enjoyed a docent-led tour of the US Capitol, one of the world’s most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate a Zoom discussion on May 8 at 4:00.
The topic for May 8: How do we read cookbooks? A recent article in The Atlantic was titled, The Wisdom of Cookbooks. We don't often evaluate how we read a cookbook. The author suggested that many of us read a cookbook from cover to cover as we would a novel, savoring the cultural information and imagining the flavors of the ingredients, as well as the aromas in our kitchens. Some cookbooks present recipes as endearing as prose and others might represent a memoir of essays from the author. As an example, Alice Waters of Chez Panisse writes "handling living food is so inspiring and energizing it makes you want to cook."
Have you ever thought about how you read a cookbook? Do you have a cookbook that offers more than just recipes that you might want to share? We have a few suggestions for you.
Check your OLLI Daily Schedule for the Zoom link on Wednesday May 8 and join us to share your thoughts.
Thank you to everyone who donated their solar eclipse glasses to be collected and sent to Astronomers Without Borders. About 25 pairs of glasses from OLLI were dropped off at Warby Parker, the local distribution site. Their participation in the collection program ended on April 30, so OLLI will be removing our donation box.
On my usual walk in the park
I sometimes climb a circular path
to a look-out summit that offers a
panoramic view—a frame-by-frame
vista that I piece together with few turns.
It’s all there: the lakes, the children’s
playground, the greenhouse, and the
grove of old-growth oaks that shade a
forest path that meanders through the
native plant region.
All beneath an ever-changing sky that
shows no preference for the beauty below.
The view from above detaches me from
my ground-level cares and I forget,
for a moment, my mundane worries.
Instead, I savor the expansive view,
the spacious air, and the tranquil quiet.
I rest on a bench placed there for such
moments and inhale my surroundings,
feeling my belly inflate and contract—
just a few breaths more, before I make
my descent.
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.
Brian Ganz: A Chopin Recital
Sat, May 4, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler! Featuring Doreen Ketchens
Sat, May 4, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.
Northern Virginia Ballet: Cinderella
Sun, May 5, 2:00 and 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35 Adult, $25 Senior.
Creative and Performing Arts Center (CAPAC): Crowns, A Gospel Musical
Sat, May 11, 2:00
Sun, May 12, 3:00
Sat, May 18, 2:00
Sun, May 19, 3:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30 Adult, $12 Senior.
Pied Piper Theatre: The Wizard of Oz
Sat, May 11, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, May 12, 2:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30 Adult, $25 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., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat May 4
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 6
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue May 7
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 8
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
Tallwood Book Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 9
11:50 am
4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 10
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
1:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club – off-site
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Sat May 11
10:00 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 13
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue May 14
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 15
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 16
11:50 am
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Reston Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 17
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
2:30 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Caregivers Group – online
Sat May 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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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.
On Friday, April 19, President Lillian Brooks opened the OLLI Board of Directors meeting at 10:00 with 14 Directors, Jennifer Disano (Executive Director) and 17 OLLI members/staff in TA-1 and on Zoom.
Our coffee event in Reston was an informative talk with Loudoun and Reston members. We are still investigating places to continue having classes in the Loudoun area and are looking into engaging the Loudoun library system for OLLI sponsorship. The Fairfax library system has renewed their OLLI contract for another year.
The Teacher Appreciation Breakfast on Friday, April 12 at the Fairfax Country Club was very successful. Mason President Gregory Washington spoke about our common interests and relationships, and Fairfax City Mayor Catherine Read talked about the city supporting the arts.
President Brooks and Executive Director Jennifer Disano have been very active and successful in working with retirement communities to provide them classes and support to assist in recruiting new OLLI members. Additionally, on Monday, April 29, beginning at 5:00, OLLI is hosting the opening of a lending library at The Mather Retirement facility in Tysons Corner as they are opening their doors to new residents.
The Election Committee has identified five very qualified and talented candidates for the Board of Directors. The potential candidates will be speaking to OLLI members in person in TA-1 and on Zoom at the OLLI Annual Meeting May 3 at 10:00.
The OLLI Website Committee has been working diligently to make our website easier to navigate, more attractive to new members, and easier for our current membership to find things and re-register. Additionally, we have been making film clips of interviews, and short movies featuring life at OLLI and other club activities, for the website and outreach talks.
The OLLI Travel tour to Iceland in December for ten members was most successful. We would like to have more members this year for group travels to Albuquerque, NM, for the Balloon Festival, and to Japan and on to South Korea.
See you at the OLLI Annual Meeting in Tallwood TA-1 and on Zoom at 10:00 on Friday, May 3, to Meet the Candidates.
Make Plans to Meet Your Board of Directors Candidates
By Marilyn Harriman, 2024 Nominating Committee Chair
Have you marked your calendar for this year’s important membership assembly on Friday, May 3, at 10:00? If not, you’ll want to join other OLLI members to meet and learn about your 2024 OLLI Mason Board of Directors candidates. The meeting is a notable yearly experience for our organization and will be held in classroom TA-1 at Tallwood and via Zoom. You’ll have a unique opportunity to directly engage with the candidates, asking them questions about their views and vision for our organization. The full agenda for the meeting will include:
Reports from the OLLI President and Executive Director
Board of Directors Candidate Forum including:
1. Candidate responses to questions posed by the Nominating Chair
2. Candidate responses to questions posed by OLLI members
To join via Zoom, click here.
Meeting ID: 814 0285 6349
Passcode: 619159
Dial-in: 301-715-8592
Online voting for candidates begins after the candidate forum ends and extends from noon, Friday, May 3, through noon on Friday, May 17. Every active OLLI member will receive an email with a voting ballot and instructions on how to complete and return it by email.
To learn more about each candidate at the candidate page of the OLLI website, click this link.
Our Annual Meeting and Candidate Forum occur on the same day as our annual picnic. If you haven’t already, plan to spend the morning and early afternoon at OLLI’s Tallwood campus to learn and ask questions about our organization’s future and stay for the festive Cinco de Mayo celebration and annual picnic.
If you have questions about the election process, please get in touch with Marilyn Harriman, the nominating committee chair, at Mlwharriman74@gmail.com.
It’s time for our annual spring picnic. This year, the event falls on Friday, May 3, just two days before Cinco de Mayo. We’ll gather at our main campus, Tallwood, 4210 Roberts Road—TA-1, the annex, and outdoors, 1:00-2:30. Enjoy tacos (meat or vegetarian) provided by our OLLI administrators, as well as each other’s potluck contributions.
In addition to enjoying each other’s company, we’ll have festive celebration music, a free dance lesson from a professional dance company, and a chance to whack a pinata filled with sweet treats. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate spring and sample your OLLI friends’ food offerings.
You must register if you haven’t yet signed up for the event and want to join the fun. It’s easy! Go to the member portal and enter Event 1104: 2nd Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration & Picnic. Follow the prompts through check out.
Registration for this event closes on April 30. All participants must sign in at the check-in table.
Each guest is asked to bring a Tex-Mex dish to share based on your last name in the alphabet:
A-H: Side dish I-R: Dessert S-Z: Salad
To mitigate germs, all potluck items must be served using tongs, serving spoons, serving forks, or toothpicks. Please bring a serving utensil for your shared dish.
This is a great time to mingle with your OLLI friends, have a delicious lunch, and enjoy Mexico’s history and heritage. Hope to see you there!
The OLLI History Club will meet by Zoom on Wednesday, May 1, at 4:00, for a presentation by Ambassador Doug Silliman titled “Sargon to Saddam (and a bit more): The Histories and Cultures of Iraq.” Mr. Silliman was a career ForeignService officer who served as the United States’ Ambassador to Kuwait from 2014 to 2016 and the United States’ Ambassador to Iraq from 2016 to 2019. He received the Presidential Distinguished Service Award in 2018 and currently serves as President of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, D.C. He knows the Middle East intimately and will be able to share his unique insights into the history of the region.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate the OLLI Zoom discussion on May 1 at 4:00. Topic for May 1: What does Spring Cleaning mean today?
We all remember the ritual of spring cleaning from our childhoods. Beds were stripped, curtains were washed as well as windows, rugs hung outside to air, and other tasks completed that were difficult to accomplish during the winter. What does spring cleaning mean to us today? Do you have annual rituals saved for the spring? Or is it merely the time of year that you switch your closet around and take wool to the dry cleaner?
Join us Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 on the 24/7 Chat Line to share your thoughts.
Over the years, many of us have likely been a part of a Wolf Trap audience, but looking out from that stage toward the seats and beyond offers a whole different perspective! This spring, 46 excited OLLI members entered Stage Door Right at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts for an outstanding tour led by Park Ranger Will Rifenbark.
Ranger Will took us through the backstage area, stopping along the way to describe how the stage is adapted for various performances and to name some of the many productions and performers who have appeared on that stage. Did you know that there is a maze of hallways and rooms downstairs where there are dressing rooms, a cafeteria, pool tables, and a lounge where performers can relax? The hallway walls display some of the many famous personalities who have appeared on the Wolf Trap stage.
Following the tour, members had the opportunity to enjoy lunch together at the Bear Branch Tavern in Vienna. In all, it was an enjoyable morning!
World turns soft, calm, mysterious
Lone walker, in nature's embrace
Purple martins, swirling in the sky
Descend into tree branches
Chittering voices fall silent
A moment of rest and reset
A glimpse into the unknown
Time to reflect, rebirth new ideas
The day is gone, night is yet to unfold
Dream of adventures ahead
Listen to the whisper of the soul
Plan to bring the whisper to life
October the golden month
Imagine epic journeys,
Over land and sea,
Basking in warmer climes
Promise of a tropical buffet.
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.
Bamberg Symphony with Hélène Grimaud
Sat, Apr 27, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $75, $65, $45.
Brian Ganz: A Chopin Recital
Sat, May 4, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
The Hylton Performing Arts Center’s 14th Anniversary Gala
Sat, Apr 27
6:00 Reception in the Didlake Grand Foyer
7:30 Dinner, Honoree Tribute, and Auction
9:00 to 11:00 Desserts and drinks
Admission: $350.
The New Dominion Choraliers Ceili: An Irish Music Festival
Sun, Apr 28, 5:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50.
Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler! Featuring Doreen Ketchens
Sat, May 4, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.
Northern Virginia Ballet: Cinderella
Sun, May 5, 2:00 and 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35 Adult, $25 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., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Apr 27
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 29
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue Apr 30
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 2
11:50 am
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri May 3
10:00 am
1:00 pm
1:00 pm
2:30 pm
Annual Business Meeting
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Caregivers Group – online
Sat May 4
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 6
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue May 7
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 8
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
Tallwood Book Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 9
11:50 am
4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 10
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
1:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club – off-site
Stay Active and Independent for Life – 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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words. Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.
Dr. Peter Henriques, Mason Emeritus Professor of History, Analyzes George Washington’s Drive to Become Commander of the American Revolutionary War Army: Large Class in TA‑1, April 10.
Theater Lovers' Group Upcoming Events and Volunteer Opportunity
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group
On Wednesday, April 24, at 4:00, the Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) will meet Castleton Festival Co-founder via Zoom.
Co-founder Dietlinde Maazel will be on hand to tell us the wonderful story of the founding of Castleton Festival in Castleton, Virginia, located in the lush, green, rolling hills of nearby Rappahannock County. You might be surprised to learn about the diversity of musical and theatrical offerings available to us a mere hour's drive from Fairfax. Look for the link in OLLI's daily schedule under Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) club meeting. Open to all OLLI members.
On Sunday, May 5, at 2:00, TLG will see The Heiress of Hawtrey Hall performed by City of Fairfax Theater Company.
Who doesn't love an English Regency romantic comedy, especially when it was written by a young local playwright? Giggle out loud at the humorous escapades of insistent suitors and meddling family members that Heiress Grace Coventry deals with as she protects her beloved Hawtrey Hall and fights for financial independence. Dinner after the show. Group ticket price TBD. Email Norma at njreck@cs.com for more information or to sign up.
Needed: Theatrical Audio Describers Volunteers; Training Provided Free, See Shows for Free
Contact Marianne Metz at themelodylingers@gmail.com for more information and to sign up for auditions in April.
The Metropolitan Washington Ear, Inc. (MWE), a non-profit organization, provides reading and information services for the blind and visually impaired throughout the DMV area, and specifically to major theaters. During the month of April, they are seeking volunteers to audition to be Audio Describers (AD). Those selected will go through AD training the weekend of May 31.
Theatrical Audio Describers learn to verbally describe visual aspects of a performance such as sets, costumes, and action on the stage that help the visually challenged to "see" the play as well as hear it. ADs are volunteer positions. Tickets to shows are free.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate the OLLI Zoom discussion on April 24 at 4:00.
The topic for April 24: Memories of O.J. Simpson. How did you react when you heard the news of O.J.'s death? Do you remember the coverage of the white Ford Bronco being chased on LA freeways? And the trial that seemed to go on forever? Seems that 150 million Americans watched the verdict announced on TV. There have been several news articles on what we learned or should have learned from that verdict.
Join us Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 on the 24/7 Chat Line to share your thoughts.
Did you know that eclipse glasses can be recycled? Astronomers Without Borders is collecting them and distributing them to other continents for future eclipse viewing, especially in areas where there is little funding to purchase the glasses for the populace.
If you still have those glasses and would like to donate them, there is now a labeled collection box in the Tallwood social room to receive them. Please deposit them by April 25, so we can get them to the collection site while they are still preparing distribution lots. Thank you.
The April 2024 Photo of the Month theme was Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. We selected John Olsen's photo "Blue Angels," 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 Back Back to Top of Page
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Our Passage
in my new yard
sits an ancient
chipped Buddha
half-buried and
overgrown with ivy
how many families
have watched the flowers
around that statue
bloom bold
then fade away
what is it like to kneel
half submerged
under crisp moon rises
embedded in creeping moss
thru rolling decades
in the shrill dark
can it hear the deep dirt
and sense the pressure
that time and rust
wreak on all
our proud structures
maybe we should
have remained
savanna wanderers
with itchy feet
leaving only
rocky foot tracks
to mark our passage
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.
Small Island Big Song
Sat, Apr 20, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
The Okee Dokee Brothers
Sun, Apr 21, 10:30 and 1:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
Bamberg Symphony with Hélène Grimaud
Sat, Apr 27, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $65, $65, $45.
Mason Opera, Spring 2024: Mozart’s The Impresario and Steven Stucky’s The Classical Style: An Opera (of Sorts)
Fri, Apr 19, 8:00
Sat, Apr 20, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Apr 21, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior.
Mason Wind Symphony Concert: The Blue Marble: An Earth Concertvation Experience
Thu, Apr 25, 6:30 to 9:30
6:30-7:45 Sustainability Marketplace Opens to the Public 6:30-7:30 Pre-Concert Discussion: Mission eARTh – A call to action for artists and audiences in Earth Conservation
8:00-9:30 Wind Symphony Concert
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 Adult, $8 Senior.
Mason School of Dance: Spring: Dance Innovations
Fri, Apr 26, 2:00 and 8:00
Sat, Apr 27, 2:00 and 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20 Adult, $16 Senior.
The United States Army Band: Red, White, and Blue
Fri, Apr 19, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: Free on a first-come, first-served basis, with doors opening at 7:00.
Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen
Sat, Apr 20, 5:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30.
Virginia National Ballet: Led Zeppelin
Sat, Apr 20, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $45, $40, $35.
Ordway Ballet: Whodunnit? A Murder Mystery Ballet
Sun, Apr 21, 1:00 and 5:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30, $27, $24 Adult; $28, $25, $22 Senior.
Matinee Idylls: Bridging the Gap
Wed, Apr 24; Lunch, 12:30, Concert 1:30
Gregory Family Theater
Lunch, concert, and dessert reception: $65
Concert and dessert reception only: $40.
The Hylton Performing Arts Center’s 14th Anniversary Gala
Sat, Apr 27
6:00 Reception in the Didlake Grand Foyer
7:30 Dinner, Honoree Tribute, and Auction
9:00 to 11:00 Desserts and drinks
Admission: $350.
The New Dominion Choraliers Ceili: An Irish Music
Festival
Sun, Apr 28, 5:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50.
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 Apr 20
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Apr 22
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue Apr 23
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 24
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Apr 25
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Reston Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Apr 26
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
1:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Crafts and Conversation
Grab ’n’ Gab Coffee Klatch
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Photography Club
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Sat Apr 27
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 29
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue Apr 30
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 2
11:50 am
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri May 3
10:00 am
1:00 pm
1:00 pm
2:30 pm
Annual Business Meeting
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Caregivers Group – 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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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.
restaurant reservations, and planning what to do? No problem! Our seasoned tour guide Trevor Major is on hand to answer all your questions. Phone him at 804-869-5285 or email him at 
The May 2024 Photo of the Month theme was Springtime. We selected Cookie (Ellen) Hilert's 
Dennis Halpin, OLLI member from fall 2019 to December
Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Northern Virginia, the Alan Cheuse International Writers Center, Fall for the Book, Watershed Lit Center for Literary Engagement and Publishing Practice, the College of Visual & Performing Arts (CVPA), and so many more, shared in the curation of The Mather’s beautiful new lending library. At the celebration residents learned about community connections and partner organizations, explored OLLI Mason offerings, and 
listened to an amazing presentation and performance by Dewberry School of Music Pianist Samuel Beckett Kim. Special thanks to Jen Morrow of Bards Alley for her expert work in the selection and stocking of the library shelves. Also, thanks to the The Mather staff for all their hard work! Kudos to everyone!
free dance lesson from a professional dance company, and a chance to whack a pinata filled with sweet treats. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate spring and sample your OLLI friends’ food offerings.
The OLLI History Club will meet by Zoom on Wednesday, May 1, at 4:00, for a presentation by Ambassador Doug Silliman titled “Sargon to Saddam (and a bit more): The Histories and Cultures of Iraq.” Mr. Silliman was a career ForeignService officer who served as the United States’ Ambassador to Kuwait from 2014 to 2016 and the United States’ Ambassador to Iraq from 2016 to 2019. He received the Presidential Distinguished Service Award in 2018 and currently serves as President of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, D.C. He knows the Middle East intimately and will be able to share his unique insights into the history of the region.
