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Ernestine Meyer

ENews-December-10-2021

December 11, 2021 by Ernestine Meyer

OLLI E-News December 10, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Website   Quick Links  Catalog   DocStore   Facebook  Officials   Member Portal   Contact Us
Loudoun Newsletter
Tallwood ramp built by Mason Facilities Management for Americans with Disabilities Act compliance is nearing completion as shown in panoramic view

December 10, 2021


Editor of the Week: Sheri Siesseger 
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Co-chair Needed for the Special Events Program Planning Group
  • Tallwood Book Club Meets TODAY
  • WANTED: Poetry and Prose for OLLI Ink 2022!
  • Share Your Expertise as an OLLI Instructor in 2022!
  • Correction for the Winter 2022 Catalog: R414 Literary Roundtable
  • Supplement for the Winter 2022 Catalog: Classic Literature Club
  • Want to Know How Algorithms Rule the World?
  • A Fascinating Peek Behind the Scenes
  • Computer Club
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • Winter-term priority registration ended December 7. However, you may still register for winter-term classes on a space-available basis.
  • Reminder: The Investment Forum hosts a special session with Marc Rubenstein, author of the Net Interest newsletter, sharing his thoughts on the banking industry and financial technology, Monday, December 13, at 10:00. See OLLI Daily Schedule email for the link.
  • Note: This month, the OLLI Personal Computer Club (OPCUG) is meeting on the 2nd Saturday, at 1:00, December 11 (tomorrow), instead of the 3rd Saturday; see article below.
  • Periodically check this link to stay up-to-date on winter term changes.
  • OLLI Mason will be closed on holiday break from December 20 through January 2.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, December 24; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, December 21, at 6:00.
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Co-chair Needed for the Special Events Program Planning Group


By Rita Way, Special Events Program Planning Group Co-chair



The Special Events Program Planning Group is looking to fill the position of co-chair. If you are interested or would like more information about this volunteer opportunity, please contact Rita Way at email: [email protected].

Thank you.
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Tallwood Book Club Meets TODAY


By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator



The Tallwood Book Club will be discussing Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes at our regular Zoom meeting, Friday, December 10 (today), at 2:30. The Zoom link and other information appears in today’s OLLI Daily Schedule email.
 
The January selection is Tightrope by Nicholas Kristof.
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WANTED: Poetry and Prose for OLLI Ink 2022!
By Caroline McNeil, OLLI Ink Editor
OLLI writers—beginners or experienced—take note: OLLI Ink is now accepting submissions, including poems, fiction, personal essays, and memoirs, for its 2022 edition.
 
Now moving into its eleventh 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 workshops.
 
How to Submit: Please send your entries and/or any questions to Caroline McNeil at [email protected].
 
Guidelines:
  • Poems – limit number of lines to 30
  • Prose – limit number of words to 2,500, single-spaced.
 Contributions are welcome starting now through the end of February.  
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Share Your Expertise as an OLLI Instructor in 2022!
By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair
 OLLI is looking for instructors willing to teach a few classes:
  • Examining the Biden Administration’s Domestic and Foreign Policy Agenda/2021-2024
  • Democracy vs. Authoritarianism in the USA and Abroad
  • Is America in Decline? Empirical Indicators and Implications for Present and Future Generations.  
This could be you! Please contact one of the following OLLI program coordinators if you are interested:
Shannon Kim Morrow, Program Associate—[email protected]
Nancy Klein, Communications and Program Associate— [email protected].
 
OR complete the course proposal form available at this link.
 
We encourage multiple sessions, if possible. Thank you!
 
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in a recent issue; the Program Planning Group requested the repeat for emphasis and to encourage your participation in sharing the benefits of OLLI.
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Correction for the Winter 2022 Catalog: R414 Literary Roundtable
By Ben Gold, Literary Roundtable Moderator
Please note the changes to this entry that were made since publication of the catalog:
R414 Literary Roundtable
Wednesdays, 11:50-1:15, Jan 26-Feb 16
Four sessions
Moderator: Ben Gold
Class limit: 30
This continuing short story discussion class will complete The Best American Short Stories 2019, edited by Anthony Doerr & Heidi Pitlor. For those who do not have copies of the book, the four remaining stories from that volume will be provided. Stories for the last two weeks of the term will be distributed.
Ben Gold has a BA in political science from Stanford University and also holds an MS degree in computer science. He will serve as moderator.
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Supplement for the Winter 2022 Catalog: Classic Literature Club
By Robert Zener, Classic Literature Club Coordinator
For the winter session, club members have agreed to read and discuss Edith Wharton’s The Age of Innocence. We will also view and discuss the 1993 film based on that book, starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Winona Ryder, and Michelle Pfeiffer. The club meets Fridays, 11:00-12:30, January 28-February 18.
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Want to Know How Algorithms Rule the World?
By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair
Sign up for OLLI Course #977 in the winter 2022 course catalog and get the answer to this question and more. You will find this class listed in the “Special Events” section (page 23). Three distinguished Mason professors discuss their research on this topic on Friday, February 18 from 2:00-3:30 and show how ethical behavior is essential when using technology. Share this critical information with your friends, associates, and young people in your social circle.
 
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in a recent issue; the Program Planning Group requested the repeat for emphasis and to encourage your participation in sharing the benefits of OLLI.
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A Fascinating Peek Behind the Scenes
By Debby Mossburg, OLLI Board Member
What a treat OLLI members enjoyed on November 15 when Ben Powell, a well-known improvisational violinist, led us on a tour through the history of, and the creative processes behind, movie scores. Born in Britain, Ben currently lives in New Orleans. He has performed with the likes of Paul Simon, Celine Dion, Andrea Bocelli, Neil Young, Barbra Streisand, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder, and has been featured on over 200 movie soundtracks including The Lion King and E.T. Most recently he contributed significantly to the score of Hillbilly Elegy.

An incredibly talented musician, Mr. Powell turned out to be a gifted presenter as well. Sharing many of his own personal stories, as well as informative and entertaining video clips, he opened attendees’ eyes to the previously unknown world of movie scoring. It was fascinating to see how all the parts come together from the first few bars sparked by the movie in the composer’s imagination through the often-collaborative creative process made tangible through the efforts of varied musicians to match music to motion. One of the clips he shared that spotlights his work, and others on Hillbilly Elegy, can be viewed at this link.

Over 250 people attended the presentation, and it was a great public-relations event as well, featured by AARP as one of the classes offered through their Virtual Community Center. Member Stephanie Trachtenberg was responsible for bringing this very special event to OLLI.

Sorry you missed it? Not to worry. You can find it on the OLLI class video recordings page featured each day in the Daily Schedule email under Special Events: 972 Motion Picture Scores. Enjoy!
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Computer Club
2nd Saturday, December 11, in-person and via Zoom
The Adventure Continues: Apple Watch, HomePods,  
Home App, and Apple Card Join iPad/iPhone
Learn in 30: The Time Lords of Fort Collins, Colorado
PC Clinic in the Annex – Click here for clinic rules 


By Paul Howard, OPCUG Program Chair


The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, December 11, both in-person and via Zoom. Program activities begin at 1:00. Details regarding in-person attendance, limited to 75 people, are located here:
https://www.patacs.org/fairfaxattreqmts.html. Those wishing to attend in person who are not members of OPCUG or PATACS (not receiving email from the groups) should send an expression of interest to: [email protected].
 
The Adventure Continues: Apple Watch, HomePods, Home App, and Apple Card Join iPad/iPhone – Presented by Gabe Goldberg. Gabe has previously spoken about early and ongoing iPad experiences and the later addition of iPhone to the mix. He will briefly recap and comment on the update of his Apple ecosystem devices, software, and experiences. Over the last eight months, he added an Apple Watch (courtesy of Heartline cardio study), three HomePod Minis, the Home App, and multiple Siri-controlled outlets. He also switched credit card usage to Apple card. He will discuss how he set up and uses these things. While the presentation is Apple-specific, more-or-less equivalent facilities are available with non-Apple devices and software.
 
Gabe has spent a professional career in computers and technology, including writing about such topics for the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), and making presentations in a multi-state territory for the Association of Personal Computer User Groups.
 
Learn in 30: The Time Lords of Fort Collins, Colorado – Presented by Bill Walsh.
Colorado is home to many scientific disciplines researched and maintained by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). As the home of America's time standard instrument, the NIST-F2 cesium fountain atomic clock, the institute maintains a radio station in Fort Collins that disseminates timekeeping information that is critical for government, industry, and daily life. An overview of this station, which includes transmitters assigned call letters WWV and WWVB, will be presented at the meeting.
 
Bill Walsh is an enthusiast of radio-controlled clocks, and of perusing the web for parts and fixes for a variety of Heathkit atomic clocks and other such technology. Bill was OLLI's Tallwood Site Assistant for 11 years and helps instructors with Zoom sessions on an as-needed basis.
 
See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 for 2021—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

Attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 1:00. Please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 458615 or enter meeting ID 846 0789 9770 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode.
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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Triage
 
The move looms
 
Reluctantly
We are emptying the house
Room by room
Treasures collected
Necessities readied
Boxed and stored
 
Leaving us with the undecided
Lurking in the rooms
Corners of maybes
Filled with uncertainty
The question marks
Of indefinite states
 
Like ourselves balanced
On the cusp of going and staying
 
                           Betty Webb
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, December 10 through December 23 


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


As Mason’s campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

American Festival Pops Orchestra: Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season
Sat, Dec 11, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
 
Fairfax Symphony Orchestra and Ballet Company: Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker
Sat and Sun, Dec 18-19, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $89, $69, $49.
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Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

No Performances
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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Zia Palmer - Women of the Same Blood
Continues through Sun, Jan 9
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

 
Prince William Little Theatre: A Christmas Carol (Touring Version)
Fri, Dec 17, 8:00
Sat, Dec 18, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Dec 19, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $24 adults; $21 seniors.
 
Manassas Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker
Fri, Dec 17, 7:30
Sat, Dec 18, 3:00 and 7:30
Sun, Dec 19, Tue, Dec 21, Wed, Dec 22, Thu, Dec 23, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $75, $65, $45, $35.
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For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: Physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines. OLLI is conducting its classes and activities online. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates and check the OLLI calendar for revised information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week 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 Dec 11
 
10:30 am
 1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Dec 13
 
 
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
What’s in the Daily News?
Tom Crooker Investment Forum: Special Event
Poetry Club
Tue Dec 14
 
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:30 pm
Annex Art
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Dec 15
 
 
10:00 am
10:30 am
 6:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Dec 16
 
 
11:50 am
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
All the News
Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Dec 17
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Sat Dec 18 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Dec 20-25 Winter Break ❄️❄️❄️


 
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About OLLI E-News

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

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, Roz Stark, Jane Hassell

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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.

An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews-November-26-2021

December 1, 2021 by Ernestine Meyer

OLLI E-News November 26, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Website   Quick Links  Catalog   DocStore   Facebook  Officials   Member Portal   Contact Us
Loudoun Newsletter
John Nash hosts Veterans Day fest, November 12, with guest speaker Phyllis Wilson, CW5 USA (Retired), Military Women’s Memorial President

November 26, 2021


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Summary of Board of Directors Meeting
  • Coordinating Meet the Artists
  • Support the Outreach Committee
  • Investment Forum Special Session
  • Share Your Expertise as an OLLI Instructor in 2022
  • Save the Date: Help Plan OLLI Mason Programs, Thursday, December 2, 10:00
  • Correction for the Winter 2022 Catalog: F407 Retelling Traditional Tales . . .
  • Want to Know How Algorithms Rule the World?
  • Photo of the Month
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • Registration begins November 29 for winter term.
  • Remember, when you register for 2022 winter term, you must register for clubs. This allows OLLI to maintain current club rosters and ensures that you receive emails about your club's activities and events.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, December 10; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, December 7, at 6:00.

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Summary of Board of Directors Meeting


By Rita Way, Secretary


The regular meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually November 19, 2021.
 
OLLI President Paul Howard reported the ramp construction is a little behind schedule, but it will be completed by the time spring term starts and members return to Tallwood campus. He also noted that the OLLI Zoom Help subcommittee would welcome additional volunteers, particularly those with Apple computer/device expertise.
 
Executive Director Jennifer Disano reported that finances are in good shape, but it is still important to reach out to recruit new members. She reported that currently the total membership is 1026 (1003 annual, 18 introductory and 5 lifetime members).
 
Jennifer also confirmed that all individuals visiting OLLI campuses will be subject to COVID prevention rules. In‑person programs require several health and safety protocols to ensure we are making our best effort to prevent the spread of COVID‑19 and its variants. Health and safety protocols are on the OLLI website. Rules are subject to change and will be updated as needed.
 
Two resolutions were approved by the Board.
 
Resolution 211119-01. Resolved, the OLLI Board of Directors approves the transfer of Friends of OLLI (FOLLI) account contributions and expenditures to the OLLI operating budget. This transfer will be effective with the 2022 OLLI budget. All FOLLI contributions not expended or allocated by the end of 2021 will be transferred to the OLLI reserve account.
 
Resolution 211119-02. Resolved, the OLLI Board of Directors approves the 2020 OLLI audit.

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Inside OLLI Mason
Coordinating Meet the Artists


By Kosmo Tatalias, Meet the Artists Coordinator



I hope you enjoyed the Meet the Artists (MTA) concerts via livestream. Five times as many OLLI members "attended" these concerts virtually than trekked to Reston pre‑COVID. Being at the Reston CenterStage in person is a more satisfying experience than watching livestream, and I hope you will find your way to Reston for the Spring 2022 series.

Have you ever thought you would like to be the producer of concerts, find performers you would like to hear, maybe even introduce them to the audience? Here’s your chance to be a Sol Hurok or a Rudolph Bing! Yes, you too can be in show business! OLLI needs a new coordinator for this marvelous concert series. Alas, I cannot continue in this role because of declining vision and mobility issues.

The duties include sending and responding to emails to schedule performers for the six concerts each fall and spring, coordinating with OLLI and Reston Community Center staffs for catalog entries, and serving as emcee or recruiting someone for that role. (My thanks again to Marianne Metz for serving so smoothly as the emcee. Her experience at the Kennedy Center and with her internet radio program is showing!)
 
The MTA concerts for spring 2022 have been scheduled, and have been submitted to the catalogs for OLLI and for the Reston Community Center. For each of the fall 2022 and spring 2023 concerts, four of the six events are annual "repeats," needing only coordination of the dates. The other two per season will very likely be filled by contacting artists who have performed for MTA before, and I can provide a long list of names and contact information. Also, other artists who perform pro bono concerts can be found by monitoring venues such as the Emerson Avenue Salonlines, Shenandoah Conservatory, and retirement communities such as Greenspring and Ashby Ponds.
 
Please consider serving as the coordinator for this important OLLI class, which Rosemary McDonald originated twelve years ago and which has been presented at the Reston Community Center for the past decade. Reading and composing emails for coordination have become difficult for me because of declining eyesight, but I will be happy to provide many resources and as much assistance as needed to the next coordinator.
 
If you are interested in helping continue this OLLI cultural offering, or if you know someone who might be, please contact me at [email protected], or call me at 703-281-6099.
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Support the Outreach Committee
Help Us Spread the Word


By Debby Mossburg, Outreach Committee Chair


Looking for a way to use your personal and professional skills to help OLLI? The Outreach Committee needs you! An Outreach Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 2, at 3:00.

We welcome anyone interested in helping us to spread the word about this amazing learning community, but we especially need people with any of the following:
  • Marketing and/or advertising experience
  • Graphic arts and/or video production experience
  • Social media savvy
  • An interest in increasing the diversity of our membership
  • A background in journalism and/or a love of writing
  • An enthusiasm for spreading the word about OLLI.
Many of the benefits we enjoy as OLLI members are only possible with a robust membership, but our membership numbers have been in decline since 2016. Joining our Outreach Committee is one way to help reverse the trend and improve your OLLI. Please contact [email protected] if you want to be part of the solution. To join the meeting, click here. The link and other information will also appear in the OLLI daily schedule email. Thanks!
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Investment Forum Special Session


By Brenda Bloch-Young, Economics and Finance Program Planning Group Co-chair


We have a unique opportunity with a special speaker for this event. Marc Rubinstein, author of the Net Interest newsletter, and based in London, has agreed to share his thoughts on the banking industry and financial technology (fintech).
The event will be on December 13 at 10:00.

Here are some words from Marc about his topic:

"When I launched Net Interest in May 2020, I never really grasped the power of the internet. I had spent over 20 years in public markets, first in equity research and then as a partner of one of Europe’s premier hedge-fund firms, analysing and investing in financial services firms throughout. At peak, my team and I managed $4 billion of assets in the sector, which we deployed, long and short, around the world. Although I’ve given up managing other people’s money, I maintain a keen interest, particularly in fintech, and thought it would be fun to write down what I was thinking about each week. 

Over 60 issues later, we are at more than 23,000 subscribers. Readers include CEOs and CFOs of some of the biggest financial institutions in the world, founders of some of the most exciting startups, and investors at some of the highest performing funds across venture and public markets."

We hope you will join us for this special session on December 13 at 10:00.
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Share Your Expertise as an OLLI Instructor in 2022


By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair

OLLI is looking for instructors willing to teach a few classes:
  • Examining the Biden Administration’s Domestic and Foreign Policy Agenda/2021-2024
  • Democracy vs. Authoritarianism in the USA and Abroad
  • Is America in Decline? Empirical Indicators and Implications for Present and Future Generations.
This could be you! Please contact one of the following OLLI program coordinators if you are interested:
Shannon Kim Morrow, Program Associate—[email protected]
Nancy Klein, Communications and Program Associate— [email protected].
OR complete the course proposal form available at this link.
We encourage multiple sessions, if possible. Thank you!
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Save the Date: Help Plan OLLI Mason Programs, Thursday, December 2, 10:00


By Pat Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group Co-chair


All OLLI Mason members are invited to our all-campus program planning group meeting for literature, language, and theater program planning. Mark your calendars and set aside some time on Thursday, December 2 from 10:00-11:30 via Zoom to share in the planning of these popular topics.

Is there a favorite author or playwright you want to know more about? Want to dabble in new writing workshops or suggest a new language to offer? Know any local teacher resources or—thanks to Zoom—instructors farther afield? Maybe you just want to see how the program-planning process works. Don’t miss this opportunity to offer your thoughts and suggestions as we plan programs for our summer 2022 term and beyond.

Also, learn about the planning for our return to in-person teaching on all campuses in our spring term, with Zoom and hybrid options available to instructors and members. 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.

See you December 2 at 10:00. Click this Zoom link to join the meeting. The Zoom link and other information will also appear in the OLLI Daily Schedule email for December 2. If you can’t make it and want to share program ideas, feel free to contact me by email at [email protected].

Thanks so much for your interest and contributions.
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Correction for the Winter 2022 Catalog: F407 Retelling Traditional Tales . . .


By Ellen Moody, Instructor



I changed one of my books and, accordingly, altered the description of the course, F407 Retelling Traditional History & Tales from an Alternative Point of View. The catalog, however, contains the previous book and so is written differently. I also now suggest an outside movie to watch.
 
Wednesdays, 11:50-1:15, Jan. 26-Feb. 16
Four sessions
Instructor: Ellen Moody
Class limit: 45

 
We will read two books which retell stories and history from perhaps unexpected and often unvoiced points of views. In War in Val D'Orcia, An Italian War Diary, 1943-44, Irish Origo (a British-Italian biographer and memoir-writer, and literary Officer of the Order of the British Empire) retells the story of World War Two from the point of view of a woman taking charge of her estates during the war. Then, Cassandra & Four Essays by Christa Wolf (a respected East German author who won numerous German literary-political prizes) tells the story of Troy from Cassandra’s point of view, no longer a nutcase but an insightful prophet. The book was written after the war was over and after a trip the author took to Greece. The immediate context for both is World War Two, but Cassandra also allegorizes the story of the two Germanies after the war and the European campaign for nuclear disarmament.
 
I will be recommending two movies: two episodes from 1979 BBC serial Danger UXB (about landmines); an acclaimed film about the GDR’s Stasi, The Lives of Others (available on Amazon prime)—the heroine’s story is partly based on the life of Christa Wolf.
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Want to Know How Algorithms Rule the World?


By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair

Sign up for OLLI Course #977 in the winter 2022 course catalog and get the answer to this question and more. You will find this class listed in the “Special Events” section (page 23). Three distinguished Mason professors discuss their research on this topic on Friday, February 18 from 2:00-3:30 and show how ethical behavior is essential when using technology. Share this critical information with your friends, associates, and young people in your social circle.
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Photo of the Month

The November 2021 Photo of the Month theme was Water. The vote for the winning photo was tied between Edward Marion’s photo “Resistance is Futile” shown below, and which may also be viewed at this page,



and Robert Kelberg’s photo “Bandon Beach” shown below, and which may also be viewed at this link.



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

 
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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Music Box Dancer*

When I hear that melody, I know
I will never be free of visions
Of you and me, sitting by the sea
Sweet, dulcet sounds of the piano

We talked till the moon slipped into the sea
Soft sea breezes lulled us into a dream
Time of serene joy, bliss and happiness
But, nothing in this world is enduring 

Even euphoric joy weakens moments later
Merging into one’s usual state of mind
Like ripples in the water made by a pebble
Gradually merge into the smooth, still surface

I dream of the future and reflect on the past

                               - Chitra Mohla

*Music Box Dancer: An instrumental piano piece by Canadian musician Frank Mills. Mills wrote and recorded Music Box Dancer in 1974.

 
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, November 26 through December 6


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


 
As Mason’s campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Canadian Brass
Sat, Nov 27, 8:00
Center for the Arts
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $35.
 
Lightwire Theater
Sun, Nov 28, 1:00 and 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
 
Dianne Reeves, Holiday Jazz
Sat, Dec 4, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
 
Shop the Arts: Cyber Monday LIVE!
Mon, Nov 29, 12:00
Virtual Event at https://www.facebook.com/gmucfa
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Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Jazz Workshop Concert
Tue, Nov 30, 8:00,
Concert Hall
Admission: Free, register at https://mpv.tickets.com/?agency=GEORGE_MASON_MPV&orgid=42970&pid=8983550.
 
Steel Pan Ensemble/Braddock Road Brass Band/Latin American Ensemble
Wed, Dec 1, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Free, register at https://mpv.tickets.com/?agency=GEORGE_MASON_MPV&orgid=42970&pid=8983551.
 
Mason Symphony and Choirs Holiday Concert
Sunday, Dec 5, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $20 adults; $15 seniors.
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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Zia Palmer - Women of the Same Blood
Tue, Nov 16 through Sun, Jan 9
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 
Virginia National Ballet: The Nutcracker
Fri, Nov 26, 2:00 and 6:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $45.
 
Northern Virginia Ballet & Academy of Russian Ballet: The Nutcracker
Sat, Nov 27, 2:00 and 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $40.
 
A Chanticleer Christmas
Sun, Nov 28, 4:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
 
Mason Dance Innovations Concert
Fri, Dec 3, 8:00
Sat, Dec 4, 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $15 adults; $10 seniors.
 
Manassas Symphony Orchestra Family Concert: Color and Light
Sat, Dec 4, 3:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 adults; $16 seniors.
 
Jane Lynch’s A Swingin’ Little Christmas
Sun, Dec 5, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $65, $55, $40.
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For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: Physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines. OLLI is conducting its classes and activities online. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates and check the OLLI calendar for revised information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week 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 Nov 27 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Nov 29
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Club
Tue Nov 30
 
 9:30 am
 4:30 pm
Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Dec 1
 
 
 
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
 2:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
History Club
Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Dec 2
 
 
 
10:00 am
 
11:50 am
 4:30 pm
Literature, Theater, and Writing/Languages Program Planning Group Meeting
All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Dec 3
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Sat Dec 4 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Dec 6  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Dec 7
 
 9:30 am
 4:30 pm
Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Dec 8
 
10:30 am
 2:00 pm
Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Dec 9
 
11:50 am
 4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Dec 10
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm
Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Dec 11 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 




























 
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About OLLI E-News

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

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, Roz Stark, Jane Hassell

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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.

An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews-November-12-2021

November 13, 2021 by Ernestine Meyer

OLLI E-News November 12, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Website   Quick Links  Catalog   DocStore   Facebook  Officials   Member Portal   Contact Us
Loudoun Newsletter
President Paul Howard and Executive Director Jennifer Disano host annual OLLI Town Hall, November 5

November 12, 2021


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Save the Date: Help Plan OLLI Mason Programs, Thursday, December 2, 10:00
  • Support the Outreach Committee
  • Computer Club
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

 
  • Watch for your winter-term catalog, which should arrive in the mail within the next two weeks. Winter-term registration begins November 29.
  • Remember, when you register for 2022 winter term, you must register for clubs. This allows OLLI to maintain current club rosters and ensures that you receive emails about your club's activities and events.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, November 26; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, November 23, at 6:00.

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Save the Date: Help Plan OLLI Mason Programs, Thursday, December 2, 10:00


By Pat Bangs
, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group Co-chair



All OLLI Mason members are invited to our all-campus program planning group meeting for Literature, Language, and Theater program planning. Mark your calendars and set aside some time on Thursday, December 2 from 10:00-11:30 via Zoom to share in the planning of these popular topics.  

Is there a favorite author or playwright you want to know more about? Want to dabble in new writing workshops or suggest a new language to offer? Know any local teacher resources or—thanks to Zoom—instructors farther afield? Maybe you just want to see how the program-planning process works. Don’t miss this opportunity to offer your thoughts and suggestions as we plan programs for our summer 2022 term and beyond.

Also, learn about the planning for our return to in-person teaching on all campuses in our spring term, with Zoom and hybrid options available to instructors and members as well. 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.

See you December 2 at 10:00. Click this Zoom link to join the meeting. The Zoom link and other information will also appear in the OLLI Daily Schedule email for December 2.

If you can’t make it and want to share program ideas, feel free to contact me by email at [email protected].

Thanks so much for your interest and contributions.
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Support the Outreach Committee


By Debby Mossburg, Outreach Committee Chair




Looking for a way to use your personal and professional skills to help OLLI? The Outreach Committee needs you! We welcome anyone interested in helping us to spread the word about this amazing learning community, but we especially need people with any of the following:
  • Marketing and/or advertising experience
  • Graphic arts and/or video production experience
  • Social media savvy
  • An interest in increasing the diversity of our membership
  • A background in journalism and/or a love of writing
  • An enthusiasm for spreading the word about OLLI.
Many of the benefits we enjoy as OLLI members are only possible with a robust membership, but our membership numbers have been in decline since 2016. Joining our Outreach Committee is one way to help reverse the trend and improve your OLLI. Please contact [email protected] if you want to be part of the solution. Thanks!
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Computer Club
3rd Saturday, November 20, In-Person/Zoom Hybrid
Removing Bloatware from Android Devices
  Overview of Apple Computers for Windows Users

By Paul Howard, OPCUG Program Chair



The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, November 20, in an in-person/Zoom hybrid session. Program activities begin at 1:00.

Removing Bloatware from Android Devices – Presented by John Krout. Bloatware is any application on a portable device that was installed before you bought the device and is not used by you. Bloatware takes up storage space on your device and, if started accidentally, can track your phone location and your uses of other applications, so it makes sense to remove bloatware. This presentation will show you three removal methods. Multiple methods are useful because some bloatware is specifically designed to resist the normal method of un-installation. Learn the normal method, application assistance for removing bloatware, and the application-developer method for removing bloatware.

John Krout's articles on a variety of topics appear regularly in the PATACS Posts newsletter. He is a frequent presenter at OPCUG/PATACS joint meetings, and served as an officer of WACUG, a predecessor organization of PATACS.

Learn in 30: Overview of Apple Computers for Windows Users – Presented by Lorrin Garson. This isn't a sales pitch for Apple computers, rather a presentation to acquaint Microsoft Windows users with the user interface and basic functions of Macs. Topics to be covered: (a) the desktop, dock, and menu bar, (b) basic "getting around," (c) system preferences, (d) applications and utilities, (e) the Mac operating system (macOS), (f) the App Store, (g) "Spotlight", (h) backup and recovery.

Lorrin is a regular speaker at OPCUG/PATACS sessions on a wide variety of computer and scientific topics.

See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 for 2021—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

Attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 1:00. Please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 458615 or enter meeting ID 846 0789 9770 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode.
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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Us 

Bodies imperceptibly dissolving away
turning into swamp soup
hormone driven desires long
gone.

That is as they say
the “March”
so our minds
at least for now
float happily on
not even close to
gone.
            Tony Rounds
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, November 12 through November 22


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer
 

As Mason’s campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.
Back to Top of Page
 
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Virginia Opera: La Bohème
Sat, Nov 13, 8:00
Sun, Nov 14, 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $110, $70, $40.

Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: The Glorious Music of Chopin
Sun, Nov 21, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.

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

Kathy Mulcahy: Clarinet Masterclass
Sat, Nov 13, 10:00
Virtual Event, check music.gmu.edu for details
Admission: Free.

Mason Jazz Vocal Night
Mon, Nov 15, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 adults; $8 seniors.

Mason Fall New Dances Concert
Fri, Nov 12, 8:00
Sat, Nov 13, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $15 adults; $10 seniors.

 
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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Carroll Sockwell - Grey
Continuing through Sun, Nov 14
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

Somers Voice LLC: Sistas the Musical
Fri, Nov 5, 7:00
Sat, Nov 6 and Nov 13, 2:00, 7:00
Sun, Nov 7 and Nov 14, 3:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25.

The War and Treaty, Concert
Sun, Nov 14, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $44, $37, $26.
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For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
Back to Top of Page
Meetings & Clubs

Please note: Physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines. OLLI is conducting its classes and activities online. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates and check the OLLI calendar for revised information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week 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 Nov 13 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Nov 16  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Nov 17
 
10:00 am
 6:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Nov 18

 
 
10:00 am

 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Nov 19
 
 
 
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
 2:00 pm
Craft and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Homer, etc.
OLLI Players: Starline 1-17
Sat Nov 20
 
10:30 am
 1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Tue Nov 23  9:30 am Annex Art
Wed Nov 24  2:00 pm Memoir and More Writing Group
 
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About OLLI E-News

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

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, Roz Stark, Jane Hassell

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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.

An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews-October-29-2021

October 29, 2021 by Ernestine Meyer

OLLI E-News October 29, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Website   Quick Links  Catalog   DocStore   Facebook  Officials   Member Portal   Contact Us
Loudoun Newsletter
Toni Acton, Member Services Committee Chair, Hosts the Fall 2021 Grab 'n' Go Coffee Klatch, October 22. 

October 29, 2021


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Mason President Marks Anniversary and Hosts Lecture and Forum Series
  • Let Summer 2022 be Your Time to Teach at OLLI
  • History Club November Meeting
  • Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
  • Boo to You!...and Halloween, too!
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Student Scholarship Spotlight Event
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • Note: Starting in 2022, you will need to register for clubs each term (e.g., when you register for 2022 winter term). This allows OLLI to maintain current club rosters and ensures that you receive emails about your club's activities and events.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, November 5; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, November 2, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director

Mason President Marks Anniversary and Hosts Lecture and Forum Series



By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director


The month of October marked the first year since Dr. Gregory Washington’s investiture as George Mason University’s eighth president. In celebration, Dr. Washington hosted a series of lectures and forums to discuss the “Grand Challenges” and “Issues of Our Time” which highlighted many scholars familiar to OLLI classrooms, including Dr. Stephan Crew, Dr. Guadalupe Correa-Cabrera, Dr. Steve Pearlstein, and Dr. Virginia Espina, to name a few.

These scholars shared their research on our environment, immigration policy, media, and social issues and provided their thoughts on the impact of these topics for Mason students, the United States, and the world. I encourage you to check out GMU TV at https://gmutv.gmu.edu/ to view video recordings of these terrific events. At OLLI, thanks to the tireless work of OLLI program coordinators, we are fortunate to enjoy lectures from our wonderful Mason professors as part of our regular programming.
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Let Summer 2022 be Your Time to Teach at OLLI

  

By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair
 
If you have ever thought about volunteering to share your expertise on a subject with OLLI members, now is the time to submit your course idea(s) for our 2022 summer session. OLLI invites you to share your expertise on topics that reflect your knowledge in any area including:
  • Classes with a multicultural focus
  • The 4th and 5th estates (news media and social media)
  • International culture and issues
  • The psychology of social media.
If you have an interest in teaching any classes (via Zoom or hybrid) or have questions or ideas of your own, please contact either of the following Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events (HSS/CE) committee chairpersons:

Camille Hodges        [email protected]
Peg O’Brien             [email protected].
 
Additionally, you may fill out the course proposal form found at this link. The form will go directly to the OLLI program planners.
 
The deadline for submitting proposals to teach during the summer 2022 session is January 28, 2022. We encourage multi-session classes. Thank you!
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History Club November Meeting

 

By Elizabeth Lambert, History Club Coordinator



The November Zoom meeting of the History Club will take place this coming Wednesday, November 3, at 4:00. Our speaker is Elva Card, OLLI member and teacher, who will give us a brief history of Korea and discuss that country’s modern divided situation. As Elva aptly describes Korea’s place: “It is sometimes called a shrimp caught between two whales.” The two whales, of course, are China and Japan.

Elva’s particular interest in Korea began with a three-week teacher seminar in Korea that included lectures at Yonsei University and a tour of South Korea. Based on her experiences and ongoing studies of Korea, Elva’s presentation will shed light on a country that is unique in many ways. It is, indeed, timely; we hope you will join us on November 3.
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Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
  

By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair
 

Good Morning!

I know you are all enjoying the fall weather as well as OLLI fall courses.
Our next meeting of the Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events (HSS/CE) Program Planning Group will be via Zoom on Thursday, November 18, at 10:00.

Shannon Morrow will send the link a few days before the meeting date and I will send the agenda at the beginning of that week. Everyone should have received a technology update from me as well as reading information in the OLLI E-News.

I hope you will join us on November 18.

Continue to be safe and well.
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Boo to You!...and Halloween, too!


 
By John Nash, E-News Editor


We know the line from Percy Bysshe Shelley’s Ode to the West Wind: “O, Wind! If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?” Let’s paraphrase that a bit: ”O, Leaves! If Fall comes, can Halloween be far behind?”

Halloween is this Sunday and the weather in our area promises to be good for bringing out all those ghosts and goblins and trick ‘r treaters. This is one of my favorite holidays as it is for many people. Statistics show that over the past years Halloween has grown in importance as a holiday celebration, with a large commercial boost from costumes, decorations, parties, and – yes – candy!

My wife always put me in charge of dispensing the treats when the doorbell rang. When confronted with a chorus of “trick ‘r treat” I’d sometimes look serious and say, “What kind of tricks can you do?” There was usually a stunned, puzzled look, but then creativity kicked in. I’ve had some Robinson cheerleaders doing cheers on my front yard, many wobbly cartwheels, and some pretty bad singing. But all laced with lots of laughter…and candy!

Once, my son and grandson dressed up as Batman and Robin and came over to trick ‘r treat us. They were sitting in the living room when I went to answer the doorbell. There was a little guy all dressed up as Batman. “Wow! You look great! But I’ve got the real Batman in my house!” He looked around me, saw my son still in costume, and shot right past me into the house! Fortunately, his parents were nearby, laughing, so there was only a fleeting moment of panic of having a young child enter my house unaccompanied!

Sadly, my neighborhood has “matured” and there are fewer trick ‘r treaters that come out now. So if you see a tall, gray-haired guy behind a Covid mask saying "trick ‘r treat," give him some candy or something stronger! But don’t expect a trick…those days are over!

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!
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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Wouldn’t that be a pity
She fears me
minute me
a speck
to her mammoth magnitude
All I ask is a drop or two
of blood  
just a morsel of life force
Surely a creature
of her majesty
can bestow
an imperceptible nod
to the sanctity of others’
humble existence
That I may ply myself
on her beneficence
I wait poised on a lowly branch
arms extended in supplication
hoping she passes
skims a hand in my direction
so I may latch on
burrow in
suck my fill
Till I need her no more
and drop engorged
to a well-won slumber
What’s that you say?
She could suffer from a disease I transfer 
blossoming into a bullseye
or some such annoyance
 
Well, wouldn’t that be a pity           
Susan Rexroad
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, October 29 through November 8


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer
 

Mason’s campuses are in the process of reopening. Limited programs at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual performances, are available for us to access and enjoy. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.
 
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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Jerusalem Quartet, Strings
Sun, Nov 7, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36, half-price for youth through grade 12.
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Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Mason School of Theater, A Concert Presentation of Footloose
Fri, Oct 29, 8:00
Sat, Oct 30, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Oct 31, 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: 
 $30 adults; $15 students, faculty/staff, and seniors.
 
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert
Wed, Nov 3, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors, and $5 youth through grade 12.

Mason Choirs Fall Concert
Sat, Nov. 6, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors, and $5 youth through grade 12.
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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Carroll Sockwell - Grey
Continuing through Sun, Nov 14
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra: Swingin' with the Met
Sat, Oct 30, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $46, $39, $28.

Axial Dance: Scary Talented!
Sun, Oct 31, 12:30
Large Rehearsal Hall
Admission: $14.

Somers Voice: Sistas, the Musical
Fri, Nov 5, 7:00
Sat, Nov 6, 2:00 and 7:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25.

Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra: Picture of Pictures at an Exhibition
Sat, Nov 6, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 adults; $15 seniors.

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For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
Back to Top of Page
Student Scholarship Spotlight Event
From Mason's Dewberry School of Music
 

RSVP to [email protected] by November 3 to get the Zoom link.
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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: Physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines. OLLI is conducting its classes and activities online. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates and check the OLLI calendar for revised information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week 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 Oct 30 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Nov 2  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Nov 3
 
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
History Club
Thu Nov 4  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Nov 5
 
10:00 am
 1:00 pm
Town Hall Meeting
Thanksgiving Volunteer Celebration
Sat Nov 6 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Nov 9  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Nov 10
 
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Memoir and More Writing Group
Spanish Club
Thu Nov 11  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Nov 12
 
 
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
 1:00 pm
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm
Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Annual Veterans Day Celebration
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Nov 13 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 
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About OLLI E-News

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

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, Roz Stark, Jane Hassell

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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.

An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews-October-22-2021

October 22, 2021 by Ernestine Meyer

OLLI E-News October 22, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Website   Quick Links  Catalog   DocStore   Facebook  Officials   Member Portal   Contact Us
Loudoun Newsletter
 
Attendees for The Haunted Carousel on October 15 had the treat of an OLLI Players experiment with serious high drama

October 22, 2021


Editor of the Week: Sheri Siesseger
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Dr. Peter Stearns Among American Historical Association 2021 Prize Winners
  • Summary of October 15 Board of Directors Meeting
  • Literature, Theater, and Languages/Writing: Teach or Plan Programs
  • OLLI Audiovisual/Technology Committee Update Fall 2021
  • Upcoming In-person and Virtual Theater Events for TLG
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, October 29; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, October 26, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director
Dr. Peter Stearns Among American Historical Association 2021 Prize Winners



By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director


A frequent instructor and honorary lifetime member at OLLI, Mason University Professor of History and Provost Emeritus Dr. Peter Stearns has delighted members for many years. He has received recognition by the American Historical Association (AHA) as it announced the winners of its 2021 prizes, to be awarded at the AHA’s 135th annual meeting in New Orleans January 6–9, 2022.

The AHA annual prizes honor exceptional books, distinguished teaching and mentoring in the classroom, public history, and other historical projects. This year’s finalists were selected from a field of over 1,400 entries by nearly 150 dedicated prize committee members. The names, publications, and projects of those who received these awards are a catalog of the best work produced in the historical discipline.

You can find the awards list at this link. Dr. Stearns is one of three honored with an award for scholarly distinction conferred on senior historians for lifetime achievement. We congratulate him on this well-deserved award.
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Summary of October 15 Board of Directors Meeting


By Rita Way, Secretary

 

The regular meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually October 15, 2021.
 
President Paul Howard opened the meeting by welcoming Judy Pirozzi, our guest speaker. Al Smuzynski, chair of the Ad Hoc Grant committee, introduced the speaker, who is his former colleague. Judy's presentation outlined the process for grant acquisition. Al’s committee will work with her toward the goal of getting grants to help augment the OLLI budget.
 
Paul reported that the team working with him to install a hybrid system in TA‑1 is making good progress. The system will be tested in two classes—The Investment Forum and What’s in the Daily News—sometime in late October or early November.
 
The ramp construction at Tallwood is close to completion. There was a brief interruption due to late delivery of supplies.
 
Executive Director Jennifer Disano reported that masks will be required at all times inside all OLLI facilities. She is working with staff to prepare for the spring 2022 term when OLLI will have three modes to enable OLLI members to attend classes. These are in-person class, Zoom only, and hybrid (combination of in-person and Zoom).
 
Jennifer reported that currently the total membership is 1050 (1001 annual plus 49 introductory).
 
Three resolutions were approved by the Board, as follows.
 
Resolution 211105-01. Resolved, the Board reiterates that as an affiliate of George Mason University, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute will adhere and operate in accordance with George Mason University’s protocols to create a safe and healthy environment during the COVID‑19 and variants pandemic. (Re: Compliance for George Mason University Affiliates).
Resolution passed – 10 pro. 1 abstain. (This resolution was passed by the Board at a special meeting held on October 5).
 
Resolution 211015-01. Resolved, the OLLI Board of Directors approves the proposed 2022 Budget Guidelines and Assumptions.
Resolution passed unanimously.
 
Resolution 211015-02. Resolved, the OLLI Board of Directors approves the proposed Statement of Work (SOW) to contract with Judy Pirozzi.
Resolution passed unanimously.
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Literature, Theater, and Languages/Writing: Teach or Plan Programs
By Pat Bangs, Literature, Theater, and Writing/Languages Program Planning Committee Chair
As part of a volunteer organization, many OLLI members have joined the ranks of our instructors or become members on program planning subject committees. The Literature, Theater, and Languages/Writing (LLT) Program Planning Group is seeking both.
 
Perhaps you are a former teacher missing the classroom experience or have a passion—no need for formal expertise—you would like to share. You may also know individuals in your community who would be good OLLI instructors. Or, if you have a topic you would like to have taught, share it with us and we can search for an instructor. For example, we would like to expand our language offerings, including French and Italian, as well as Spanish, which is extremely popular and has a waiting list this term. We have had a request for a course on James Joyce’s Ulysses. If you or someone you know would like to tackle these needs or anything else, let us know. Beginning with our spring 2022 term, instructors are being asked in what format they would like to teach their class. They can teach in-person, hybrid (in-person with the class on Zoom simultaneously), or virtual only.

The LLT Program Planning Group is also inviting members to become a part of our planning process. In coordination with staff, we meet several times a year to review and plan course offerings for each term.  Planning begins at least six months in advance and sometimes earlier. At the moment we meet via Zoom, but eventually we hope to return to in-person. Serving on the LLT Program Planning Group is a special opportunity to see how OLLI programs evolve and to be an active part of our extraordinary community.
 
If you would like more information about teaching OLLI Literature, Theater, or Languages/Writing programs or joining our group, please feel free to contact me or any of the other group co-chairs below.
 
Pat Bangs                [email protected]
Jackie Gropman       [email protected]
Linda Bergman        [email protected]
Norma Reck            [email protected]
 
OLLI thrives through the generous contributions of its members. Thank you.
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OLLI Audiovisual/Technology Committee Update Fall 2021
By Camille Hodges, Board of Directors Member
I hope you will join with me in appreciation of the great volunteer work of the OLLI Audiovisual/Technology Committee. The latest updates from the committee were reported at the October 15 meeting of the Board of Directors. Many of the updates describe work done to establish and test the capability to conduct classes in hybrid mode, a combination of in-person attendance with the use of Zoom presentation. The committee is resolving challenges associated with hybrid mode to facilitate its use as an option when OLLI is able to resume classes on campus during a term in the near future.

Although the details of the committee activities are more extensive than can be included in this brief article, they are available for you to examine at this link. I encourage you to look at the list of updates to gain an understanding of the efforts of these volunteers to provide OLLI with technology that will enhance our ability maintain the excellence of our institute.
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Upcoming In-person and Virtual Theater Events for TLG


By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator

 

The Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) will hold its next meeting virtually on Wednesday, October 27, from 4:00 – 5:30. All OLLI theater goers are invited to join us—feel free to invite a friend. A representative from the Sterling Playmakers group will speak to us about their community theater group, its productions, theater activities, and history. Details to follow.
 
Mason's School of Theater students will perform "A Concert Presentation of Footloose" October 28 and 29 at 8:00 and October 30 and 31 at 2:00 at Center for the Arts (CFA) Concert Hall. Following the 2:00 matinee on Sunday, October 31, you are invited to join the Friends of Theater and the students' families to "Meet and Greet" the cast after the show. We will meet on Holton Plaza, just outside the CFA. In case of inclement weather, the event will be in the lobby. All audience members are required to show either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test result. To purchase tickets online, go to cfa.gmu.edu, or by phone, call 703-993-2727. Senior tickets are $15 per person.
 
Director Erin Gardiner describes Footloose, the musical, thusly: "At its core, the show is about a community searching for healing in the wake of a tragedy. Ultimately, the younger generation leads the way to that healing through art and expression." Choreographer Ahmad Maaty says, "Footloose is a high-energy jukebox musical, full of incredible billboard hits that make you want to move." Music Director Joe Walsh says, "The music is fun and catchy. You'll be singing the tunes for weeks after you enjoy a performance."
 
On Monday, November 15 from 12:00 – 1:15, Djola Branner, Mason's new director of the School of Theater, will hold a conversation with playwright/television writer Julia Cho and playwright/director Chay Yew. This event, one of a series of conversations, is part of Mason's Fall Guest Artist Series: Creating Anti-Racist Theater. The series is one example of an ongoing effort to address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusivity. The audience is invited to interact with the guest artists after what is usually a very enlightening and thought-provoking conversation between Branner and the invited guests. If you are even just a little curious about what is happening in the world of theater, you are sure to come away with something to think about. It is a free, virtual event, open to all. To sign up for the event online, go to www.signupgenius.com.
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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
 
 
A Phony Day
If you want your phone to ring,
Take a nap.
If you want your phone to ring,
Take a nap.
 
There’ll be phone calls from your kids,
Of what the grandkids did—
If you want your phone to ring,
Take a nap.
If you want your phone to ring,
Take a nap.
If you want your phone to ring,
Take a nap.
 
There’s a call from Amazon
Says your account is overdrawn—
If you want your phone to ring,
Take a nap.
If you want your phone to ring,
Take a nap.
If you want your phone to ring,
Take a nap.
 
Your car’s warranty has expired, …
Now that you’re all perspired,
I’ll leave you alone, so you
Can take a nap!
                                                Joan Lunsford
To be sung to the tune of “If You’re Happy and You Know It”
 
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, October 22 through November 6


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


 
As Mason's campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Beginning October 18, 2021, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

No events scheduled
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Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Mason School of Theater, A Concert Presentation of Footloose
Thu, Oct 28, 8:00
Fri, Oct 29, 8:00
Sat, Oct 30, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Oct 31, 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: 
 $30 adults; $15 students, faculty/staff, and seniors.
 
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert
Wed, Nov 3, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors, and $5 youth through grade 12.

Mason Choirs Fall Concert
Sat, Nov. 6, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors, and $5 youth through grade 12.
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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Carroll Sockwell - Grey
Continuing through Sun, Nov 14
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 

ARTfactory: Sweeney Todd

Fri, Oct 22 and 29, 8:00

Sat, Oct 23 and 30, 8:00

Sun, Oct 24 and 31, 4:00

Gregory Family Theater

Admission: $30.

 

Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Back to the Classics

Sat, Oct 23, 7:30

Merchant Hall

Admission: $20 adults; $15 seniors.

 

US Navy Band: Awakenings

Sun, Oct 24, 3:00

Merchant Hall
Admission: Free; tickets are required.


Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra: Swingin' with the Met
Sat, Oct 30, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $46, $39, $28.

Somers Voice: Sistas, the Musical
Fri, Nov 5, 7:00
Sat, Nov 6, 2:00 and 7:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25.

Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra: Picture of Pictures at an Exhibition
Sat, Nov 6, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 adults; $15 seniors.

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

Please note: Physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines. OLLI is conducting its classes and activities online. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates and check the OLLI calendar for revised information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week 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 Oct 23 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Oct 26  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Oct 27
 
 
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Memoir and More Writing Group
Spanish Club
Theater Lovers’ Group
Thu Oct 28
 
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Oct 29
 
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Oct 30 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Nov 2  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Nov 3
 
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
History Club
Thu Nov 4  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Nov 5
 
10:00 am
 1:00 pm
Town Hall Meeting
Thanksgiving Volunteer Celebration
Sat Nov 6 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 
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About OLLI E-News

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

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, Roz Stark, Jane Hassell

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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.


An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews-October-15-2021

October 17, 2021 by Ernestine Meyer

OLLI E-News October 15, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Website   Quick Links  Catalog   DocStore   Facebook  Officials   Member Portal   Contact Us
Loudoun Newsletter
National Park Service Ranger Bethany Bagent Describes the Building of the Jefferson Memorial, Park Ranger Potpourri Lecture, October 5

October 15, 2021


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • OLLI President's Message October 15
  • Reston Program Planning Group Meeting
  • Join the Directors of Mason's Fall Musical for a Behind-the-Scenes Talk on Footloose
  • Photo of the Month
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • OLLI Players perform The Haunted Carousel, Friday, October 15, 2:00–3:00. Emailed "Daily Schedule OLLI Mason" provides link and details.
  • Reminder: OLLI Personal Computer User Group (OPCUG) meeting Saturday, October 16 (tomorrow), at 1:00, via Zoom. The meeting link and other information are available in the emailed "Daily Schedule OLLI Mason" for October 15-16. Meeting details are available at this link.
  • Grab ‘n’ Gab coffee klatch, Friday, October 22, 10:00-11:30. All members welcome. The Zoom meeting link and other information will appear in the emailed "Daily Schedule OLLI Mason" for October 22.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, October 22; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, October 19, at 6:00.

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OLLI President's Message October 15


By Paul Howard, President



After a delay caused by supply-chain issues, work has resumed on the construction of the ramp at Tallwood to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as illustrated by some photos I took on October 9. The photo at left was taken from near the ramp terminus on the upper level, looking down past TA-2 toward TA-3. Near the entry to TA-3, work on the railings for the ramp has begun, as visible in the second photo.
 
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Reston Program Planning Group Meeting

By Shannon Kim Morrow, Program Associate



All are welcome to join us for the next Reston Program Planning Group meeting on Tuesday, October 19 at 4:00. As we move back to in-person classes, it’s doubly important to plan for a robust program in Reston. We encourage you to bring your ideas and suggestions. Please see the Zoom information below. We hope to see you!

Please click this Zoom link to join the Reston Program Planning Group meeting and use passcode 135790 or enter meeting ID 814 8422 2916 in the Zoom application and use the above passcode. You may also dial in at 301-715-8592. Thank you!
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Join the Directors of Mason's Fall Musical for a Behind-the-Scenes Talk on Footloose


By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator




Have you ever wondered just how a director decides upon a vision for a show? Or how the choreographer develops ideas for telling the story through dance? If so, please join the Friends of Theater this Sunday, October 17, 2021, at 4:00, when Mason's Director Erin Gardiner, Music Director Joe Walsh, and Choreographer Ahmad Maaty share their visions for "A Concert Presentation of Footloose." There will be plenty of opportunity during this free, hour-long virtual program to chat with them about their craft. You might want to ask Joe Walsh to compare a concert presentation and a stage performance. What's the difference?

You will also meet Djola Branner, the new Director of Mason's School of Theater, and enjoy the fun and catchy tunes the lead singers will perform.

Footloose, the Broadway show, was based on a 1984 film of the same name. The plot was inspired by actual events that took place in the 1970s in Elmore City, a small, rural, religious town in Oklahoma. The high-school seniors wanted to hold a senior prom, but dancing had been outlawed in 1898, when the town was founded. What happens next is heartwarming and a testament to the healing power of the arts.

You must register for the program. Email Rachel Engle at [email protected]. You will receive the Zoom link a day before the program.

Mason's talented School of Theater students will perform "A Concert Presentation of Footloose," October 28-31, 2021, at The Center for the Arts Concert Hall. Senior tickets are $15.
For tickets and more information, click on this link.
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Photo of the Month


 
The October 2021 Photo of the Month theme was Panoramas. We selected Ed Rader's Death Valley photo "Zabriskie Point," 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

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

crimson leaves take flight
rain pummels their airborne dream
flaming red whirlwind
                                   -Susan Bennett
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, October 8 through October 18


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer
 

Mason’s campuses are in the process of reopening. Limited programs at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual performances, are available for us to access and enjoy. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.
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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

The Magic of Bill Blagg Live!
Sat, Oct 16, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
 
Sphinx Virtuosi
Sun, Oct 17, 3:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $28.
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Mason Student and Faculty Performances 

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


No Performances Scheduled
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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)
 

Gallery Exhibition: Carroll Sockwell - Grey

Tue, Oct 12 through Sun, Nov 14

Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery

Admission: Free.

 

Prince William Little Theatre: Dial "M" for Murder

Fri, Oct 8 and 15, 8:00

Sat, Oct 9 and 16, 8:00

Sun, Oct 10 and 17, 2:00

Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $20 Adults; $17 seniors

 

Manassas Ballet Theatre: Dracula

Fri, Oct 15, 7:30

Sat, Oct 16, 7:30

Sun, Oct 17, 3:00

Merchant Hall

Admission: $65, $55, $45, $35, $25.

 

ARTfactory: Sweeney Todd

Fri, Oct 22 and 29, 8:00

Sat, Oct 23 and 30, 8:00

Sun, Oct 24 and 31, 4:00

Gregory Family Theater

Admission: $30.

 

Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Back to the Classics

Sat, Oct 23, 7:30

Merchant Hall

Admission: $20 Adults; $15 seniors.

 

US Navy Band: Awakenings

Sun, Oct 24, 3:00

Merchant Hall
Admission: Free; tickets are required.

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

Please note: Physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines. OLLI is conducting its classes and activities online. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates and check the OLLI calendar for revised information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week 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 Oct 16
 
10:30 am
  1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group Meeting
Tue Oct 19
 
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Reston Program Planning Group Meeting
Tai Chi Club
Wed Oct 20
 
 4:00 pm
 6:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Oct 21
 
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Oct 22
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Craft and Conversation
Grab ‘n’ Gab Coffee Klatch
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Photography Club
Sat Oct 23 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Oct 26  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Oct 27
 
 
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Memoir and More Writing Group
Spanish Club
Theater Lovers’ Group
Thu Oct 28
 
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Oct 29
 
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Oct 30 10:30 am Tai Chi Club


























 
Back to Top of Page
About OLLI E-News

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

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, Roz Stark, Jane Hassell

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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.

Back to Top of Page

Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

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OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE
AT GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

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