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OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews March 13, 2026

March 14, 2026 by [email protected]

OLLI E-News March 13. 2026
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Mason School of Dance Distinguished Service Professor Linda Garner Miller Introduced Some Dance Students for a Preview of the 2026 Gala Concert Scheduled March 27 and 28, Center for the Arts Concert Hall.
Admission: Adult $35, Senior $19, Student $19

March 13, 2026


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Join Your Friends at the OLLI Kick-Off Coffee
  • OLLI Artists Club
  • BIG BAND SHOWDOWN
  • OPC Photo 101
  • Computer Club
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • Spring term 2026 begins March 23 and ends May 15.
  • The Computer Club 3rd Saturday meeting will be on March 21 at 1:00. The Zoom session opens at 12:45 (see article below).
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, March 27; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, March 24, at 6:00.

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Join Your Friends at the OLLI Kick-Off Coffee

 

By Toni Acton, Board Member and Member Services Committee Chair


What better way to start the spring term than to attend the Kick-Off Coffee on Thursday, March 19 at 10:00 at Tallwood? Celebrate old friendships and make new ones with refreshments and lively conversations! 

New members will have the opportunity to engage with our Executive Director Lisa Mariam and OLLI President Debbie Engleson, and learn more about OLLI and the many things that we offer. A question-and-answer period and a tour of the campus will follow the presentations. Register for event 1203F at the member portal or contact the registrar at [email protected].
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OLLI Artists Club



By Christine Narbut, OLLI Artists Club Coordinator
        


The spring session of watercolor painting classes will start March 24 at 2:15. We will start with some beginning skills and build on these over the 8 weekly sessions. There is currently a waiting list for this class.

Consider joining the OLLI Artists Club which meets every other week. The next meeting is Wednesday, March 18 at 10:00 in the Annex or on Zoom, and we will continue to meet during the spring class session on Wednesdays every other week from 1:30 to 3:30 in the Annex or on Zoom. The OLLI Artists Club supports all visual arts and will be displaying OLLI members’ creations in the Annex social area. Plans for the first group of OLLI art creations will begin this week. Please sign up for the OLLI Artists Club to receive information about upcoming art news. Below are two watercolor paintings by OLLI members.

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BIG BAND SHOWDOWN

 

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


If you like music that roars over you like a well-synchronized machine, then get ready to enjoy this concert! There is one jazz concert this month that all OLLI folks will enjoy! Below is the information.


WHAT: BIG BAND SHOWDOWN 
WHEN: Monday, Mar 30, 2026, at 8:00
WHO: Directors, Jim Carroll, John Kocur, and Matt Niess
WHERE: Center for the Arts
TICKETS: https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/jazz-big-band-showdown-spring-2026

The BIG BAND SHOWDOWN will take place on Monday, March 30, at 8:00, in the Center for the Arts! Three bands will be showcased in an electrifying evening that celebrates the hot sounds and swinging beats of the Big Band era!

The evening will feature the Mason Jazz Ensemble, directed by Jim Carroll; the Jazz Workshop, directed by John Kocur; and the Shenandoah University Studio Big Band, directed by Dr. Matt Niess.

Join us for a high-energy concert that showcases the powerful brass, blazing saxophone sections, driving rhythm sections, and other dynamic jazz performances you won’t want to miss!
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OPC Photo 101

By John Nash, E-News editor

 

What can your camera do for you? Are you a little intimidated by a big digital single-lens reflex (DSLR)? Maybe you're tired of your photos looking – well, ordinary? How can you do more than “point and shoot” with these fantastic cellphone cameras?

Almost 50 OLLI members signed up for the OLLI Photo Club's first introductory class on digital photography. The three-session class, offered at Tallwood and on Zoom, began with George Bradshaw showing the basic operations of a digital camera, and explaining how the backbone of a good photograph is the management of light using the “exposure triangle” of aperture, shutter speed and ISO. Concluding the first session, Lynn Cline, OPC co-chair, explained some rules for taking or improving photographs.

The second session highlighted several OPC photographers who showed some of their pictures, explaining the camera settings and thought process behind each photograph. Attendees had an opportunity to ask questions about the pictures.

The final session continued with OPC photographers showing and explaining their photographs. Ed Marion showed “the next step” with illustrations of how photographs can be altered through post-processing. The last half of the session was devoted to a summary of cell phone photography by Jo Leir, a guest presenter, which generated lots of questions, even after the class ended.

John Olsen, OPC co-chair, pointed out that this is the first time OPC has presented a class in photography and showcased some of the outstanding photographers in the club. “We received a lot of good feedback on the program.” John also pointed out that participating in the OPC is an excellent way to improve photography skills. “Membership in the OPC is free. It's a benefit of OLLI membership.”

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Computer Club
3rd Saturday, March 21
Butt, Neck, Eyes… Oh My! Surviving Screen Time
Using AI to Process Email Responses

 
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, March 21, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45 (Zoom link below).
 
Butt, Neck, Eyes… Oh My! Surviving Screen Time―Presented by Judy Taylour
In today’s increasingly digital world, our bodies are paying the price for the long hours we spend in front of screens. While technology keeps us connected, productive, and occasionally entertained by cat videos, it can also leave our bodies feeling like they’ve run a marathon—without ever leaving the chair.
 
This presentation examines the physical toll of modern tech habits. We’ll explore some all-too-familiar conditions, including Butt Syndrome from marathon sitting sessions, Tech Neck from constantly looking down at phones, Mouse Shoulder and Tech Back caused by awkward computer setups, digital eye strain from staring at glowing screens, and Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) from clicking, tapping, and scrolling our way through the day.
 
Along the way, we’ll talk about why these problems happen, how to recognize the warning signs before your body files a formal complaint, and simple ways to fix them—without giving up your favorite gadgets. Expect practical tips, a few laughs, and easy adjustments that can help you sit, click, and scroll a little more comfortably. Because technology should make life easier… not turn us into hunched-over screen zombies.
 
Judy Taylour, President, Santa Clarita Valley (SCV) Computer Club, Member, APCUG Speakers Bureau Judy has been a dedicated member of the SCV Computer Club for 38 years, serving as president. Her involvement reflects her passion for technology and community engagement.
 
Using AI to Process Email Responses―Presented by Lou Coglianese
 
Ever have a long email chain with responses from several people? You can use AI, in this case Gemini, to pull out the relevant information and create a document in the format you need.

Lou Coglianese is a retired IT professional. His career included senior researcher roles at IBM as well as enterprise architect roles at Capital One. He is a regular contributor to OLLI Mason.    

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 2026 (and 2025, if you didn’t get around to paying earlier!)—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45, please click    

  https://olligmu-org.zoom.us/j/87181894687?pwd=jeej4aqXUEcbKuULWcx9ACtgISnrCF.1

to join the meeting and use passcode 468224. (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 871 8189 4687 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method).

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop


Baby Magic
 
I learned lust at five
from Romper Room
on our first boxy TV
 
I wanted Baby Magic
 
Blond and pink
she cried tears
blinked and smiled
round arms akimbo
just like a real baby
 
I needed Baby Magic
 
I talked about nothing
else for months,
ignoring Grandma’s
lovingly stitched
Raggedy Ann and Andy
 
I yearned for Baby Magic
 
Christmas came
as did a big blue box.
That day, I waved
my secret wand
to make Baby Magic blink
and smile and cry
 
The next day friends
called out – come watch
Captain Kangaroo.
On the shaggy orange rug
Baby Magic laid face down
 
At five I had learned
the power of
wanting versus having –
because I found
Baby Magic wasn’t
                –Valerie Horton

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances March 13 through March 30


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) has several web sites of performances, talks etc.
CFA ticket purchase page
Center for the Arts YouTube channel 
Hylton ticket purchase page
the new https://masonartsamplified.gmu.edu/
music.calendar.gmu.edu/
theater.calendar.gmu.edu/

dance.calendar.gmu.edu
masonexhibitions.org/
and if you miss a live performance, there is a pay-per-view for many: https://cfa.gmu.edu/events/paid-digital-performances. 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 above) or visit the venue's box office.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: Mozart and Friends—Beethoven, Haydn, and Clementi
Sun, Mar 15, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.

Danú
Fri, Mar 20, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion with Danú co-founder Benny McCarthy begins one hour prior to the performance. Also enjoy a performance in the lobby by Legacy Irish Dance
leading up to Danú's concert.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.

Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens
Sun, Mar 22, 7:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $91, $76, $60.

Artists in Conversation: Silkroad Resonance Circle
(Community Jam)

Mon, Mar 23, 7:00
Sherwood Center
Admission: Free but registration required: Click here.


Empty Bowls (a fund raiser for the Student Food and Housing Insecurity Fund)
Wed, Mar 25, 7:00
Center for the Arts
Admission: $50.

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: Rick Steves’ Europe: A Symphonic Journey
Sun, Mar 29, 5:00
Center for the Arts
Admission: $95, $75, $64, $54, $44.
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Fairfax Campus Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)
 
The Prescription is Home
Through April 18, 2026
Mason Exhibitions, Arlington Campus

The Art of Silence: a Sculpture + ASL Collaboration
Through March 27, 2026
Fenwick Gallery, Fairfax Campus

Living the Prescription
Through May 8, 2026
Founders Gallery, Arlington Campus
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Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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


Faculty Artist Series: Caroline Steiger (horn) and
Friends

Sat, Mar 14, 7:00
Harris Theater
Admission: Free.

George Mason School of Theater: Pipeline
Thu, Mar 26, 7:30
Fri, Mar 27, 7:30
Sat, Mar 28, 2:00 and 7:30
Sun, Mar 29, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $40 Adult, $19 Senior.

2026 Mason Dance Company Gala Concert
Fri, Mar 27, 2:00 and 8:00
Sat, Mar 28, 8:00
Center for the Arts
Admission: $35 Adult, $19 Senior.

Jazz Big Band Showdown
Mon, Mar 30, 8:00
Center for the Arts
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Manassas Ballet Theatre: Les Sylphides and More!
Fri, Mar 13, 7:30
Sat, Mar 14, 7:30
Sun, Mar 15, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $81, $71, $60, $50.

Prince William Little Theatre: Head Over Heels
Fri, Mar 13, 8:00
Sat, Mar 14, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Mar 15, 2:00
Fri, Mar 20, 8:00
Sat, Mar 21, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Mar 22, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35 Adult, $29 Senior.

Virginia National Ballet: Swan Lake
Fri, Mar 20, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50; $40; $35; $30.

Manassas Chorale: Gathered As One
Sat, Mar 21, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $40.

Matinee Idylls, Marjory Serrano-Coyer and Hsin-Yi
Chen: Serenade from the Americas: A Musical Voyage for Violin and Piano

Wed, Mar 25, Lunch 12:30, Concert 1:30
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Admission: Lunch, concert, and dessert reception: $81
Concert and dessert reception only: $50.

Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Music of Joy and Peace
Sun, Mar 29, 2:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.

Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, Mozart, Saint-Georges, and Beethoven: Masters in Motion
Sun, Mar 29, 3:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30 Adult, $27 Senior.

Chorale Broadway Showcase: Bright Lights, Big City: Broadway Beginnings and NYC Dreams
Fri, Mar 27, 8:00
Sat, Mar 28, 2:00
Hylton Center, Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.

Visual Arts: Offerings to the Potomac: Acknowledging Indigenous Place
Through May 15, 2026
Buchanan Hall Atrium Gallery, Manassas Campus


 

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

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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information).

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members.

 
Sat Mar 14 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Mar 16
 
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Reading Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Mar 17
 
 
 2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Mar 18
 
 
 
 
  
 
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
OLLI Artists Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Mar 19
 
 
 
10:00 am
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Spring Kick-Off Coffee
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Mar 20
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Mar 21
 
10:30 am
 1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group – online
Mon Mar 23
 
 
 9:30 am
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Mar 24
 
 
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Mar 25
 
 
 
 
 
11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Page Turner Club – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Thu Mar 26
 
 
 
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Mar 27
 
 
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc.
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
French Conversation and Happy Hour – online
Sat Mar 28 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editors: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi


Weekly Editor Team: Chloe DiStaso, David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi, Chitra Mohla, John Nash,
Paul Van Hemel
 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews February 27, 2026

March 1, 2026 by [email protected]

OLLI E-News February 27, 2026
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Board of Directors Meeting, Tallwood and Hybrid, February 20
 

February 27, 2026


Editor of the Week: Chitra Mohla
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Literature, Language, Theater, and Writing (LLT) 
  • History Club
  • PATACS Donation to OLLI Mason Fund
  • Photo of the Month
  • Member Achievement
  • Poet's Corner
  • Obituary: William Ronald Campbell
  • For the Love of Music
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • You should have received a spring catalog. Spring 2026 registration began February 17 and continues throughout the term (which begins March 23 and ends May 15).
     
  • On March 1, the Hylton Center presents the Washington National Opera (WNO) Orchestra with the Cafritz Young Artists in Favorite Operatic Moments. OLLI Mason members get 50% off two tickets (use coupon code WNOCF50 when selecting seats).
     
  • Due to an unexpected scheduling change the March 5 theatrical concert Matters of the Heart by three-time Tony Award winner Patti Lupone at George Mason University’s Center of the Arts will be rescheduled. Ticket buyers will be contacted directly by the ticket office with additional information. OLLI Mason members can purchase discounted tickets. (Price: $65; regularly $85-$105, Discount Code OLLI).
     
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, March 13; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, March 10, at 6:00. 

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Literature, Language, Theater, and Writing (LLT) 
Program Planning Group Meets March 5


By Patricia Bangs, LLT Program Planning Group Co-Chair



The Literature, Language, Theater, and Writing (LLT) Program Planning Group will meet Thursday, March 5 at 10:00 via Zoom to plan our fall 2026 term and beyond.

OLLI Mason members are invited to attend and bring ideas for literature, theater, writing, or language programs, as well as possible resources. This could include individuals you may know who might want to teach or any other thoughts on this popular OLLI program area. In the fall 2026 term, we also seek programs that would celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation.

The meeting Zoom link is https://gmu.zoom.us/j/95425987068. It will also appear in the March 5 Daily Schedule.


Thanks to all who can come. See you on March 5.
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History Club

 
By Doug Snoeyenbos, History Club Coordinator


The History Club will meet via Zoom at 4:00 on Wednesday, March 4. 

Jim Anderson has graciously agreed to present on The Great Locomotive Chase, a thrilling tale of bold Civil War raiders. In the spring of 1862, Union special operatives went behind the confederate lines and stole a locomotive, seeking to sabotage the Confederates’ vital single-track rail line between Atlanta and Chattanooga. Although the raid was ultimately unsuccessful, the raiders were awarded the newly-created Medal of Honor.

Jim Anderson is a historian and lecturer, and a 30-year veteran of the CIA. He has led tours of Civil War battlefields, and lectured for OLLI, the Cosmos Club, and several local Civil War Roundtables.

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PATACS Donation to OLLI Mason Fund



By Paul Howard , OPCUG Program Chair
Former President of OLLI and President, PATACS

Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society’s (PATACS) relationship with OLLI is demonstrably a long-term, mutually beneficial association. Chuck Roberts, Bill Walsh and Paul Howard began that partnership in February of 2007, teaching two sessions on computer security in three OLLI classes offered in conjunction with Vee Johnson of Fairfax County's Consumer Affairs organization.

This relationship has continued with PATACS members Roger Fujii, Mel Mikosinski, John Krout, and others who have joined OLLI's AV Support Committee, helping OLLI with a variety of technical challenges, including email issues consulting, computer configuration and repair, researching and implementing videoconferencing, LAN/router and WiFi installation for OLLI, and most recently, the implementation of hybrid classrooms.

PATACS members Bill Walsh and Nick Wenri were referred to OLLI, were employed in staff positions as site assistants, and have continued to take fill-in slots as needed.

This January marked the beginning of the eighteenth year of PATACS' joint meetings with OPCUG, offering more than twenty presentations and two troubleshooting clinics a year to attendees of both organizations. Annual attendance at these meetings has been around 500 people per year (488 in 2025). Currently 14 of PATACS' 70 members are also OLLI members (as of February 2026). Several other PATACS members were formerly OLLI members.

Today (February 21), we're pleased to present a check for $500 to the OLLI Mason Fund in appreciation for this partnership, financial support of which now totals $6050, as well as equipment donations of $358.

In keeping with the suggestion made at the 2015 ceremony by OLLI's then Development Committee chair, Lesley Bubenhofer, PATACS requests that the “OLLI Mason Fund” use this donation for support of AV equipment, hybrid technology including Zoom, and facility requirements for the classroom used for OPCUG/PATACS joint meetings.

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Photo of the Month



The January 2026 Photo of the Month theme was Open. We selected Bob Kelberg's photo "Wine Glass at Portuguese Hotel," 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 Lynne Cline, Photography Club Coordinators

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Member Achievement

 
New Book: Passages: Life of Challenge and Service
 


 By Dell Pendergrast, Senior Foreign Service Officer, Retired



Passages: Life of Challenge and Service, was published September 29, 2025. It is a memoir of stories and reflections about Dell Pendergrast's journey from origins in the Midwest to a Foreign Service career centered on Eastern Europe and its evolution to independence from Moscow.  After retirement from the government, Dell was director of a private scholarship program for young Americans in Ireland followed by
30 performances on stage with community theaters across the Washington D.C. area.


The book is available on Amazon at this link.

Dell is also a regular contributor to OLLI Ink and an active member of the Writer's Workshop.  


About the Author

Dell Pendergrast grew up in the Chicago area and graduated from Northwestern University in 1963. He received a Master's degree in Mass Communication Research from Boston University and entered the U.S. Foreign Service in 1965. In a 32-year career Dell served in six overseas posts
―Belgrade, Zagreb, Saigon, Warsaw, Brussels, and Ottawa―along with Washington DC positions. After retirement as a senior foreign service officer, he joined the non-profit US-Ireland Alliance directing the George Mitchell Scholarships for six years. Dell married Tula Rembe in 1963, and they had two sons, Mark and Kevin.

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

How It Starts

soft, slight
like a baby’s hiccup
a raindrop flicked a window pane
the sound was tentative, maybe incidental, perhaps imaginary 
so I listened
 
Silence
 
the furnace kicked in with a swoosh
like a white-capped wave
kissing the welcoming sand
then, a cluster of erratic taps
syncopation in the dark, moonless night
 
a streak of lightning
threw ungainly shadows
against my 3:20 a.m. bedroom wall
an explosion of thunder shook the house
as an orchestra of nimbus clouds
elegantly started to perform
Beethoven’s Ninth
on my humble roof
 
   - Nancy Coffey

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Obituary: William Ronald Campbell

Former OLLI member William Ron Campbell, Jr., who joined OLLI in 2004, died on
February 3,  2026, at the age of 86. Ron graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1961 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps beginning a distinguished military career, culminating in his retirement with the rank of Lt. Colonel in 1982. He also received a master’s degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.


Ron’s distinguished military career began with duty in Okinawa, Japan, and included assignments at Quantico, Virginia; Pascagoula, Mississippi where he served as the assistant air operations officer on the USS Tarawa; Coronado, California where he was assigned as the flight operations officer on the USS Tarawa, and Kailua, Hawaii, as the Commanding Officer of HMM-262 at Kaneohe Marine Corps Air Station in Hawaii until his retirement in 1982.

After his military duty, Ron worked in various management contracting roles until retirement in 2003. At OLLI, he enjoyed classes on history and singing for fun.

A funeral service was held on February 20, at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Burke, VA. Donations may be made in Ron’s memory to The Church of the Good Shepherd or Young Marines. More information is available at this link.

 
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For the Love of Music


By Linda H. Harber, Friends of Music at Mason Co-President




For all music lovers, please mark your calendars for this upcoming Friends of Music at Mason (FOMM) Evening in Amalfi on April 18th. You reserve a ticket which costs $85 and covers a lovely dinner and a donation to Mason Music student scholarships. For more information, please email me. After the dinner event, the group will move to the music room, where there will be live music fitting with the evening’s theme.

Anyone can be a Friend of Music at Mason with any size gift (attending this event makes you a friend).  Our wonderful students also appreciate having a supportive audience for their concerts and recitals.


Also, please check the Dewberry School of Music program calendar to see the wonderful concerts and recitals coming this semester. The Sunday Faculty Concert series has already started and all of those programs are free! And there are so many other exciting programs and recitals−jazz, symphony, band, choral, opera−so many types of music to love!

Hope to see you there!


 
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances February 28 through March 22


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) has several web sites of performances, talks etc.
CFA ticket purchase page
Center for the Arts YouTube channel 
Hylton ticket purchase page
the new https://masonartsamplified.gmu.edu/
music.calendar.gmu.edu/
theater.calendar.gmu.edu/

dance.calendar.gmu.edu
masonexhibitions.org/
and if you miss a live performance, there is a pay-per-view for many: https://cfa.gmu.edu/events/paid-digital-performances. 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 above) or visit the venue's box office.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Vaughn Wiester
Sat, Feb 28, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.

 
Mnozil Brass
Sun, Mar 1, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.


Fairfax Symphony Orchestra with Patti LuPone: Matters of the Heart
Thu, Mar 5*, 7:30
Concert Hall
Admission: $105, $85, $64. 

*Due to an unexpected scheduling change the March 5 performance will be rescheduled.
Ticket buyers will be contacted directly by the ticket office with additional information.


Fairfax Symphony Orchestra with Demarre McGill
Sat, Mar 7, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $75, $64, $54.
 

Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: Mozart and Friends—Beethoven, Haydn, and Clementi
Sun, Mar 15, 7:00
Concert Hall

Admission: $60, $52, $38.
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Fairfax Campus Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)
 
The Prescription is Home
Through April 18, 2026
Mason Exhibitions, Arlington Campus
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Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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


Music Faculty Artist Series Recitals in Harris Theatre
Sun Mar 1, 7:00, Music Across Borders with Laura Kaufman Mowry (flute)

Harris Theater
Admission: Free and Open to the Public.

 
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert: Concerto Competition Winners
Mon, Mar 2, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.
 
University Singers Concert: Finding Home
Tue, Mar 3, 8:00
Harris Theater
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.

 

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Pablo Sainz-Villegas
Sat, Feb 28, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.
 
Washington National Opera Orchestra Featuring the Cafritz Young Artists
Sun, Mar 1, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $71, $60, $45.
 
Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats
Sat, Mar 7, 11:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $24.
 
Nicole Zuraitis
Sat, Mar 7, 5:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35.
 
Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Sonic America with Melanie Young, harp
Sat, Mar 7, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35.
 
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy and The Celtic All Stars
Sun, Mar 8, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $65, $56, $41.
 
Manassas Ballet Theatre: Les Sylphides and More!
Fri, Mar 13, 7:30
Sat, Mar 14, 7:30
Sun, Mar 15, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $81, $71, $60, $50.
 
Prince William Little Theatre: Head Over Heels
Fri, Mar 13, 8:00
Sat, Mar 14, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Mar 15, 2:00
Fri, Mar 20, 8:00
Sat, Mar 21, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Mar 22, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35 Adult, $29 Senior.

 
Visual Arts: OFFERINGS TO THE POTOMAC
ACKNOWLEDGING INDIGENOUS PLACE

February 24 - May 15, 2026
Buchanan Hall Atrium Gallery, Manassas Campus

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

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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information).

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members.


 
Sat Feb 28 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Mar 2
 
 
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Reading Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Mar 3
 
 
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Mar 4
 
 
 
 
 
 
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Mar 5

 
 
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Mar 6
 
 
 
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Mar 7 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Mar 9
 
 
 
9:30 am
9:30 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Mar 10
 
 
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Mar 11
 
 
 
 
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Spanish Page Turner Club – online
Thu Mar 12
 
 
 
11:30 am
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Eat, Drink, and Be Irish
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Mar 13
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
2:30 pm
4:00 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
French Conversation and Happy Hour – online
Sat Mar 14 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editors: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi


Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi, Chitra Mohla, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews February 13, 2026

February 14, 2026 by [email protected]

OLLI E-News February 13, 2026
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Brad Wallach and Jim Bever gave an informative talk on the
unfortunate demise of the US Agency for International Development
(USAID), Tallwood, February 9

February 13, 2026


Editor of the Week: Deborah Kruesi 
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Member Survey Reminder
  • Poet's Corner
  • Computer Club
  • Obituary: Richard Thomas Bulova
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • On Monday, February 16th OLLI Mason will be open only for make-up classes. Happy President's Day!
  • You should have received a spring catalog. Spring 2026 registration begins February 17 and continues throughout the term (which begins March 23 and ends May 15).
  • OLLI Mason guest passes are now available in the main office and as an insert in the spring catalog. Please help us encourage others to try the program.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 27; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 24, at 6:00.

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OLLI President's Message February 13
Member Survey Reminder



   By Deborah Engleson, President


We recently sent everyone an email link to our questionnaire about OLLI Mason programs. If you've already responded, thank you!  If you haven’t yet responded, there’s still time. Your candid feedback will help us keep making your OLLI experience better and better.

Click here for questionnaire (if you have not yet responded).

Please share your thoughts by Monday, February 23. Thank You!

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Tens and Twenties                         
 
In the far-left lane catch the red light  
       Begin watching tall thin young man
               Carrying a sign
                     “Mental illness affects us all
                              Can you help?”
        Hope light changes soon
 
Pretend not to see him hobbling on spindly deformed legs  
        Do see his intent blue eyes
                 Imagine smell of his tattered clothes
        Why won’t this light change
 
Starts his second pass      Looks tired
       Face and legs raw from August sun  
       His cracking lips must hurt     Wish I had water
 
Seems not asking for himself but for mental health
         Damn light will never change
         Here he comes
                 Give a few dollars
                 Can’t only have tens and twenties
                 Where are the fives and ones
 
Light finally changes      Grab for a ten     Get a twenty instead
Car in back starts honking      Hold your horses    
 
Give him a twenty and vow to avoid this corner
                           or
Come back from time to time 
        See how he’s doing
                 With fives and ones and water
 
        –Bill Sinclair                  

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Computer Club
3rd Saturday, February 21
Transitioning from Windows to Linux
Additional Program to be Announced


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, February 21, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45 (Zoom Link below).
 
Transitioning from Windows end-of-life to Linux—Presented by Tom Gutnick
The title really sums it up! My Windows laptop was being obsoleted by Microsoft, but it’s been a good, solid device for over ten years, and I preferred repurposing it rather than shelling out for a new system. I’ll discuss which flavor of Linux I chose and why, and walk through the steps I took to accomplish the migration. My successful experience may give others the confidence to do the same.

Tom Gutnick has worked in the computer industry for most of his adult life. He started out as a programmer, has managed software development projects and data centers, and has worked as a system performance analyst and cybersecurity analyst. Now, as proprietor of Sunny Banana IT Consulting, he helps small businesses and home offices that don't have their own IT departments harness appropriate technology. He also teaches personal technology at Arlington Community Learning and information technology at Northern Virginia Community College.

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 2026 (and 2025, if you didn’t get around to paying earlier!)—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45, please click:

          82693376813?pwd=TqPi3cvOv0Ab0OFhTty1LuahESE2Jb.1

to join the meeting and use passcode 626307. (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces), or enter meeting ID 826 9337 68813 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
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Obituary: Richard Thomas Bulova

Former OLLI member Richard Thomas “Dick” Bulova, a longtime resident of Fairfax, VA, and Tampa, FL, died on December 29 in Tampa at the age of 87. He first joined OLLI in the spring of 1996 and was a member as late as 2016.

Born in 1938, Dick grew up in Syracuse, NY. Following service in the Army, he graduated as a physics major from Syracuse University in 1962 and received an ROTC commission in the infantry. After completing a second active-duty tour, he moved to the Washington, DC area. As a Department of the Army project engineer in research and development, he specialized in night vision and countersurveillance. He saw service in Viet Nam. Remaining active in the Army Reserves, he attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was appointed to the Army Acquisition Corps and retired as a GS-14 in 1994.

Dick was an eager volunteer of his skills and experience (e.g., serving as a high-school physics teacher’s aide, guest lecturer, and science fair judge). He was a member of the American Legion, as well as of several Learning in Retirement programs, including OLLI. He wintered in Tampa for many years before making it his permanent residence with his second wife, Ann-Lis Wiberg.

Previously Dick was married for 31 years to Sharon Bulova, former Chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. He is survived by two children – David Bulova of Fairfax, VA and Karin Johansson of Seattle, WA – and five grandchildren.

Friends and family are invited to gather to remember him. A memorial will be held at 10:30 on February 21 at the Holy Spirit Old Catholic Church in Safety Harbor, FL. The funeral will be at 11:00 on April 13 at the historic St. Mary of Sorrows church in Fairfax Station, VA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in his memory to the charity organization “Doctors Without Borders.”

More information is available at this link.
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances February 13 through March 3


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) has several web sites listing performances, talks etc. For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468.
CFA ticket purchase page
Center for the Arts YouTube channel 
Hylton ticket purchase page
The new https://masonartsamplified.gmu.edu/
music.calendar.gmu.edu/
theater.calendar.gmu.edu/
dance.calendar.gmu.edu
masonexhibitions.org/
and if you miss a live performance, there is a pay-per-view for many: https://cfa.gmu.edu/events/paid-digital-performances
 
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at
this link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Virginia Opera: Intelligence
Sat, Feb 14, 7:30
Sun, Feb 15, 2:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $116, $76, $45.          
 
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Vaughn Wiester
Sat, Feb 28, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.
 
Mnozil Brass
Sun, Mar 1, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.
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Fairfax Campus Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)
 
The Mirage of Ancient Egypt: Exploring Ancient Egypt’s Legacy in Popular Culture
Through February 13, 2026
Fenwick Gallery
 
The Prescription is Home
Through April 18, 2026
Mason Exhibitions, Arlington Campus
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Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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


Mason Jazz Festival
Sat, Feb 14, 10:00 to 8:30
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
 
Music Faculty Artist Series Recitals in Harris Theatre
Sun, Feb 15, 3:00, Taylor Fleshman (harp), strings, and clarinet
Sun, Feb 15, 7:00, Eunae Ko Han (collaborative piano) and Friends
Sun, Feb 22, 3:00, Christopher Jewell (bassoon) and Friends
Sun, Feb 22, 7:00, Caroline Steiger (horn) and Friends
Sun, Mar 1, 7:00, Music Across Borders with Laura Kaufman Mowry (flute)
Admission: Free
 
Pathos Trio Residency: Pathos Trio Performance
Mon, Feb 16, 8:00
deLaski Performing Arts Bldg, 3001
Admission: Free.
 
Mason Bands Concert: Dope
Tue, Feb 24, 7:30
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.
 
Mason Jazz Ensemble with Special Guest Vaughn Wiester
Thu, Feb 26, 8:00
Harris Theater
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.
 
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert: Concerto Competition Winners
Mon, Mar 2, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.
 
University Singers Concert: Finding Home
Tue, Mar 3, 8:00
Harris Theater
Admission: $19 Adult, $14 Senior.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

DRUM TAO: THE BEST
Sat, Feb 14, 2:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $65, $56, $41.
 
Secrets of Space
Sun, Feb 15, 1:00 and 4:00
A family-friendly craft activity will take place in the Jacquemin Family Foundation Hall prior to this performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $24.
 
Soles of Duende
Sat, Feb 21, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $53, $46, $34.
 
Pablo Sainz-Villegas
Sat, Feb 28, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.
 
Washington National Opera Orchestra Featuring the Cafritz Young Artists
Sun, Mar 1, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $71, $60, $45.



Visual Arts: OFFERINGS TO THE POTOMAC
ACKNOWLEDGING INDIGENOUS PLACE

February 24 - May 15, 2026
Buchanan Hall Atrium Gallery, Manassas Campus

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

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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information).

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members.

 
Sat Feb 14 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 16
 
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 17
 
 
 2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 18
 
 
 
 
 
 
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Feb 19
 
 
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 20
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
 9:45 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Feb 21
 
10:30 am
 1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Feb 23
 
 
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Reading Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 24
 
 
 
10:00 am
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Board Blizzard Game Bash
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 25
 
 
 
 
 
 
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Hiking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Spanish Page Turner Book Club – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Thu Feb 26
 
 
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 27
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 4:00 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
French Conversation and Happy Hour – online
Sat Feb 28 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editors: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi


Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi, Chitra Mohla, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews February 6, 2026

February 6, 2026 by [email protected]

OLLI E-News February 6, 2026
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Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
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OLLI is grateful for support from Mason Facilities staff, who cleared snow at the Tallwood Campus after the late January snowstorm.

February 6, 2026


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Note: 2026 OLLI Member Survey
  • Welcome to Our New OLLI Staff Members!
  • New Next Spring – Sports Talk Club: Game On!
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • OLLI Mason guest passes are now available in the main office. You can help us encourage others to try our program by handing them out in your local community.
  • Remember to check the catalog updates list on the OLLI website.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 13; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 10, at 6:00.
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OLLI President's Message February 6

Note: 2026 OLLI Member Survey


By Deborah Engleson, President




All OLLI members should have received a link to the 2026 OLLI Member Survey via email on Monday, February 2. If you did not receive the survey email, please contact the office at [email protected].

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Welcome to Our New OLLI Staff Members!


By Lisa Mariam, Executive Director



We are delighted to welcome three new colleagues to the OLLI Mason staff. Each brings valuable experience, fresh perspectives, and a shared commitment to supporting lifelong learning and member engagement.

Please join us in extending a warm OLLI welcome when you see them at Tallwood, at Reston, and online. We are excited to have them as part of the OLLI team and look forward to the energy and ideas they will bring in the months ahead.

Kieran (Kip) Schomber is our newest site assistant to support classroom technology and smooth instructional delivery for in-person, hybrid, and online programs. Kip’s first day was February 2.  He worked previously as an elementary-level classroom teacher in Fairfax County. Kip is an active member at Church of the Good Shepherd in Burke, assisting with audio mixing for the Sunday livestream and The Good Shepherd Players' upcoming production of Something Rotten. Kip holds a BA in communication from Hope College.

Rachel Dixon brings her passion for healthy aging, learner centered operations, and community building to support members and programs to the role of Operations Manager. She’s starting remotely on February 17 and her first day in the office will be on March 2. A lifelong learner, her international study and travel experiences continue to shape her belief in curiosity, cultural exchange, and learning across the lifespan. An active member of her community, Rachel volunteers with organizations including Meals on Wheels, the Little Theatre of Alexandria, and her local school district. She serves on the Alexandria Commission on Persons with Disabilities and champions inclusion and accessibility in all spaces.

Rachel holds degrees from Rutgers University and Temple University, along with several professional certificates. She is an alumna of Leadership Alexandria and a proud recipient of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce 40/40 Award. Her dedication to lifelong well-being and inclusive engagement guides her connections with learners of all ages. She is a certified 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) yoga instructor and is currently pursuing graduate studies in educational leadership at Virginia Commonwealth University. Outside of work, Rachel enjoys traveling—especially cruising—discovering new cultures, and attending live theatre.

Sri Shriya Challapuram will also be joining the team as a site assistant. She is a recent Master’s graduate in computer science from George Mason University and holds a Bachelor’s degree in computer science and engineering. She has worked in software engineering, research, and applied AI. Shriya enjoys working in collaborative learning environments and has a strong interest in using technology to make learning more accessible. Outside of work, she enjoys attending idea-driven talks and events, going on hikes and urban walks, and engaging in conversations around technology, creativity, and learning.

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New Next Spring – Sports Talk Club: Game On!


By Dennis VanLangen, Sports Talk Club Co-Coordinator



Love sports? Want to connect with fellow fans? OLLI members Steve Greenhouse and Dennis VanLangen are excited to launch a brand-new club where you can talk about everything sports!

What we'll discuss: All sports are welcome—pro and college, national and local, current games and legendary moments. Football, baseball, basketball, hockey, women's sports, and more. If it's sports, it's on the table!

When we meet: First and third Fridays of each month via Zoom, year-round (both in and out of term).

Kickoff session: Friday, April 3, 2026, at 10:00.

How to join: Official registration opens in late February when spring 2026 registration begins.

Want to express early interest? Email [email protected] with 1. Subject line: "Game On: Talking Sports" and 2. Message: "I am interested in joining this new club."

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just enjoy a good game, Steve and Dennis would love to have you join the conversation. See you in April!

Editor’s Note: This article appeared in the E-News for the issue of December 12, 2025. It is repeated here to encourage your participation in a new Sports Talk Club planned to begin in the spring term. If you are interested, plan to register for the club during registration for the spring term.
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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

untitled 

flame of red leaves
against cobalt sky
burns through winter
 
      –Ed Sadtler

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances February 6 through February 16


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) has several web sites of performances, talks etc. For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468.
CFA ticket purchase page
Center for the Arts YouTube channel 
Hylton ticket purchase page
The new https://masonartsamplified.gmu.edu/
music.calendar.gmu.edu/
theater.calendar.gmu.edu/
dance.calendar.gmu.edu
masonexhibitions.org/
and if you miss a live performance, there is a pay-per-view for many: https://cfa.gmu.edu/events/paid-digital-performances

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble
Sat, Feb 7, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $81, $71, $55.

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: The Soul of Tango with Berta Rojas
Sat, Feb 7, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $75, $64, $54.

Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: Poetic Tone Pictures
Sun, Feb 8, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.

Virginia Opera: Intelligence
Sat, Feb 14, 7:30
Sun, Feb 15, 2:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $116, $76, $45.
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Fairfax Campus Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)
 
The Mirage of Ancient Egypt: Exploring Ancient
Egypt’s Legacy in Popular Culture

Through February 13, 2026
Fenwick Gallery

The Prescription is Home
January 23 - April 18, 2026
Mason Exhibitions, Arlington Campus
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Mason Student and Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)


Mason Jazz Festival
Sat, Feb 14, 10:00 to 8:30
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.

Pathos Trio Residency: Pathos Trio Performance
Mon, Feb 16, 8:00
deLaski Performing Arts Bldg., 3001
Admission: Free.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Mason Cabaret: Heart and Music, the songs of William Finn
Fri, Feb 6, 7:30 
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35 Adult, $19 Senior.

Cirque Mechanics
Sat, Feb 7, 2:00 and 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.

American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras:
Harp Ensemble, Concert Orchestra and Symphonic Orchestra in Concert
Sun, Feb 8, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $14.


Visual Arts: OFFERINGS TO THE POTOMAC
ACKNOWLEDGING INDIGENOUS PLACE

February 24 - May 15, 2026
Buchanan Hall Atrium Gallery, Manassas Campus

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

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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information).

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members.

 
Sat Feb 7 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 9
 
 
 9:30 am
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 10
 
 
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 11
 
 
 
 
 
11:50 am
11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
Investment Forum
Literary Roundtable – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Page Turner Club – online
Thu Feb 12
 
 
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 13
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm
 4:00 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
French Conversation and Happy Hour – online
Sat Feb 14 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 16
 
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 17
 
 
 2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 18
 
 
 
 
 
 
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Feb 19
 
 
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 20
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
 9:45 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Feb 21
 
10:30 am
 1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editors: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi


Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi, Chitra Mohla, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews January 30, 2026

January 31, 2026 by [email protected]

OLLI E-News January 30, 2026
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Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
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Heather Dudley Class on Samuel Adams, Father of the Revolution, Winter 2026.

January 30, 2026


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel 
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • 2026 OLLI Membership Survey
  • George Mason Jazz Festival - Saturday, February 14 (Harris Theatre)
  • Call for Photos for OLLI Ink 2026
  • Spotlight on NOVA Course Series in 2026
  • History Club
  • Poet's Corner
  • Enjoy a Little Sunshine and a Quick Trip to the Caribbean with Theater Lovers Group
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • OLLI Mason guest passes are now available in the main office. Grab a stack to hand out in your local communities. Help us encourage others to try our fantastic program!
  • Remember to check the catalog updates list on the OLLI website.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 6; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 3, at 6:00.

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 OLLI President's Message January 30 

2026 OLLI Membership Survey



By Deborah Engleson, President

 

As you know, the mission of OLLI Mason is to provide quality educational, social and cultural opportunities for those 50 and over.  To deliver on that mission, the OLLI Board wants to make sure we’re responsive to you, our OLLI members.  To that end, we’ve designed a survey on a wide range of topics directly related to your participation with OLLI – everything from class and event content to timing and delivery. It’s completely anonymous (although we hope you’ll consider providing your contact info, so we can follow up as needed), and should take no more than 15-20 minutes to complete.

You’ll be receiving this questionnaire via email soon. We hope that each of you will take the time to let us know your thoughts and ideas about OLLI Mason and how we can improve your OLLI experience. We look forward to sharing your feedback at the OLLI Annual Meeting on May 1st.  Thank you!

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George Mason Jazz Festival
- Saturday, February 14 (Harris Theatre)



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




In 2026, the George Mason Jazz Festival headlining act will be The Airmen of Note.

The festival includes:
  • Scholarships to the George Mason Jazz Camp, summer 2026
  • 3 “Outstanding Soloist” (cash prizes) and
  • 4 “Best Section” certificates
  • Live performance recordings for band directors
  • Written feedback from adjudicators
2026 Adjudicators:
  • Taylor Barnett - trumpeter with the No BS! Brass, director of Jazz Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) 
  • Jim Carroll – saxophonist with Woody Herman Orchestra, founder of Mason Jazz and director of the Mason Jazz Ensemble
  • Stephen Philip Harvey - saxophonist, composer, bandleader, professor at Salisbury University and Youngstown State University
2026 George Mason Jazz Faculty Clinicians:
  • Aaron Eckert, trombone, U.S. Army Blues
  • Shawn Purcell – guitar, retired U.S. Navy Commodores
  • Ben Thomas – bass, U.S.A.F. Airmen of Note
  • Kevin McDonald – drums, U.S. Navy Commodores
MASON JAZZ FESTIVAL
February 14
10:00 – 9:00 (pm)
Harris Theatre 
All concerts are free and open to the public; no tickets are required. FREE parking in LOT K.  
Website:  go.gmu.edu/georgemasonjazzfest

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Call for Photos for OLLI Ink 2026


By Margie Wildblood,
OLLI Ink Co-Editor


 
  1. Call for Photos: OLLI Ink, the literary magazine published each spring, will be accepting black and white photos for the interior magazine and color photos for the inside back cover for the 2026 edition beginning now.
  2. Deadline for Submissions: The submission deadline will be 11:59 (pm) on Friday, February 20. NO SUBMISSIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE DEADLINE!
  3. Participants: OLLI Photo Club (OPC) photographers may submit up to 5 color photos for the inside back cover, and up to 10 black and white photos for inside pages of the OLLI Ink publication. The placement of each inside photo is determined by the layout editor, depending on space, and cannot be expected to relate to any specific piece of writing.
  4. Photo Orientation and Watermark Restriction: Color photos for the front or inside back covers must be in a portrait orientation. Black and white photos for the interior pages can be in either a portrait or landscape orientation. No watermarks are permitted on any photo submissions.
    1. Selection Process: This year, due to time constraints, OLLI volunteers will select the black and white photos. The OLLI Ink editorial staff will select the front cover from color photos submitted for the front cover. The candidate photos will not display the photographers’ names to avoid favoritism.
 
***FOR INSTRUCTIONS ON SUBMITTING PHOTOS, PLEASE CONTACT ONE of the following:    Margie Wildblood     George Bradshaw    or    Sophia Elberti. Thank you.

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Spotlight on NOVA Course Series in 2026


By Camille Hodges, OLLI HSS/CE Committee Chair



The Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events (HSS/CE) Program Planning Group plans to continue featuring various communities in NOVA in its upcoming selections of courses. We have previously featured A Place Called Ilda (a community in the Annandale/Canterbury Woods area) as well as other notable communities in Fairfax by the authors of Black Communities of Fairfax: A History. Courses anticipated are: Falls Church/Tinner Hill, Arlington (Green Valley (Nauck), Arlington View (Johnson’s Hill), Alexandria), and a history of the Fairfax County Courthouse.

If you have the desire to share expertise on historic regions in NOVA, please submit your course proposal using the link https://olli.gmu.edu/olli-course-proposal-form/. Ensure that you click 'submit' at the bottom of the form. You may also download and print the form and submit it to the OLLI Mason office, ATTN: Program Associates.

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History Club


By Doug Snoeyenbos, History Club Coordinator



The History Club will meet on Zoom next Wednesday, February 4, at 4:00.  The link will be in the morning daily schedule email.

Our presenter will be author Chuck Mauro, and his presentation will be titled A Southern Spy in Northern Virginia: The Civil War Album of Laura Ratcliffe. Laura lived in Herndon and provided information to the Confederates. The album, also used as a guestbook, was given to her by the dashing Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart. Stuart also wrote four poems for Laura to help cement her allegiance to the Confederate cause. Chuck will show how Laura’s story illustrates the competing considerations that were felt by many Southern sympathizers living in contested or Union-controlled territory.

Chuck is a retired federal employee who has published 15 books, most related to the Civil War. He is a fine storyteller, and this should be an excellent presentation.

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

       It’s Complicated

After enough time for me
      to fall out of lust and into love
      you said my dark eyes turned
                smoky.
 
I imagined you would be
    water in my desert, manna,
          potentially shelter in my storms.

      After 40 years, living together
                in the same house, or oceans apart,
I’ve been both right        
                       and wrong.
 
                                      –Carolyn Wyatt

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Enjoy a Little Sunshine and a Quick Trip to the Caribbean with Theater Lovers Group
 


By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers' Group



February is special in that it is packed with celebrations from major holidays like Valentine's Day to quirky national days like National Love Your Pet Day to notable events like Super Bowl Sunday. In keeping with the 'special' theme, OLLI's Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) is planning to attend two plays - Neil Simon's The Sunshine Boys and Once on this Island - both of which address what is special to the human experience. You are invited to join us.


On Sunday, February 8, TLG will attend the 2pm matinee performance of The Sunshine Boys, performed by The Vienna Theatre Company in The Vienna Community Center, located at 120 Cherry Street in Vienna. Tickets are $16 and can be purchased online at viennatheatrecompany.org. The story is based on real life comedians who became estranged after a successful vaudeville career together. The story of their reuniting is told with lots of humor and hilarious one-liners. We will meet for an optional lunch at Carnegie Diner, located at 507 Maple Avenue West at 11:30am. (You will be back home in time for the Super Bowl.)
 

On Sunday, February 15, TLG will attend the 3pm matinee performance of Once on this Island, performed by the City of Fairfax Theater Community at Katherine Johnson Middle School, located at 3801 Jermantown Road in Fairfax. Tickets are $31.60 and can be purchased online at fairfaxcitytheatre.org. This Caribbean inspired musical is about the unbreakable human spirit and the power of love. We will meet at Luciano's on Chain Bridge Road and Hunter Mill Road in Oakton for an optional lunch at 11:30am.    
 
Feel free to bring a guest or two. We will have separate checks, and there is plenty of free parking at each venue. Just remember to email me Norma at [email protected] to let me know you will be joining us. Everyone is welcome.


Editor’s Note: At the author's request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
TLG Lunch Bunch at Auld Shebeen

  
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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances January 30 through February 8


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) has several web sites of performances, talks etc.
CFA ticket purchase page
Center for the Arts YouTube channel 
Hylton ticket purchase page
the new https://masonartsamplified.gmu.edu/
music.calendar.gmu.edu/
theater.calendar.gmu.edu/

dance.calendar.gmu.edu
masonexhibitions.org/
and if you miss a live performance, there is a pay-per-view for many: https://cfa.gmu.edu/events/paid-digital-performances. 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 above) or visit the venue's box office.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Curious George: The Golden Meatball
Sat, Jan 31, 11:00 and 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $24.
 
Homecoming Comedy Headliner Josh Johnson
Thu, Feb 5, 9:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $65, $55, $45.
 
Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble
Sat, Feb 7, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $81, $71, $55.
 
Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: The Soul of Tango with Berta Rojas, Guitar
Sat, Feb 7, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $75, $64, $54.
 
Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: Poetic Tone Pictures
Sun, Feb 8, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.
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Fairfax Campus Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)
 
The Mirage of Ancient Egypt: Exploring Ancient
Egypt’s Legacy in Popular Culture

Through February 13, 2026
Fenwick Gallery

The Prescription is Home
January 23 - April 18, 2026
Mason Exhibitions, Arlington Campus
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Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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


Mason Cabaret: Heart and Music, The Songs of William Finn
Fri, Jan 30, 7:30
Sat, Jan 31, 2:00 and 7:30
Sun, Feb 1, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $35 Adult, $19 Senior.

Guest Recital: Michael Burner, trombone
Mon, Feb 2, 6:30
Music Theater Building, 1023
Admission: Free.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Mason Cabaret: Heart and Music, The Songs of William Finn
Fri, Feb 6, 7:30
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $35 Adult, $19 Senior.
 
Cirque Mechanics
Sat, Feb 7, 2:00 and 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.
 
American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras:
Harp Ensemble, Concert Orchestra and Symphonic Orchestra in Concert
Sun, Feb 8, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $14.


Visual Arts: OFFERINGS TO THE POTOMAC
ACKNOWLEDGING INDIGENOUS PLACE

February 24 - May 15, 2026
Buchanan Hall Atrium Gallery, Manassas Campus

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

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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information).

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members.

 
Sat Jan 31 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 2
 
 9:30 am
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 3
 
 
 2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 4
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
11:50 am
11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Investment Forum
Literary Roundtable – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Feb 5
 
 
 
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm
 6:00 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Feb 6
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Feb 7 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 9
 
 
 9:30 am
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 10
 
 
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 11
 
 
 
 
 
11:50 am
11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
Investment Forum
Literary Roundtable – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Page Turner Club – online
Thu Feb 12
 
 
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Feb 13
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm
 4:00 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
French Conversation and Happy Hour – online
Sat Feb 14 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editors: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi


Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Chitra Mohla, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.

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Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews January 23, 2026

January 23, 2026 by [email protected]

OLLI E-News January 23. 2026
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Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
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Board of Directors Meeting, Tallwood, January 16 (See Summary Below)

January 23, 2026


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents
  • Alerts & Notices
  • Colorful Surprise: Yarn Bombing Brightens OLLI Mason
  • Board of Directors Meeting January 16
  • Open the Doors! The OLLI Mason Guest Pass
  • Spotlight on NOVA Course Series in 2026
  • OLLI Ink Now Taking Submissions
  • Celebrate the New Year on a High Note with OLLI's Theater Lovers' Group
  • Tallwood Book Club
  • Photography Club
  • Poet's Corner
  • Arts & Music at George Mason
  • Meetings & Clubs
  • About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

  • Remember to check the catalog updates list on the OLLI website.
  • Summer term proposals are due on January 26th. Links to proposal forms are available on the OLLI Mason website for both courses and events.
  • Want to be more involved in course selection? Join one or more of the subject area program planning groups. Email [email protected].
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, January 30; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, January 27, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director
Colorful Surprise: Yarn Bombing Brightens OLLI Mason


By Lisa Mariam, Executive Director


Members arriving at OLLI Mason on January 20 for the first day of term were greeted by an unexpected burst of color and creativity. The entrance and porch have been transformed by a joyful act of yarn bombing. The columns are covered in cheerful knitted and crocheted panels with words of positivity, turning the familiar posts into vibrant works of fiber art. Other fiber surprises are sprinkled throughout the entrance area and porch.

The project, created in secret by an anonymous group, was designed to bring a moment of delight to everyone returning for the winter term. Their handiwork sparked smiles throughout the day as members paused to admire the playful patterns and bright textures.

Yarn bombing, a form of street art that uses knitted or crocheted pieces to decorate public spaces, has been embraced for the warmth and whimsy it brings to everyday surroundings. At OLLI Mason, the installation serves as a reminder of the creativity and community spirit that make the institute special.

The installation will be in place at least through the end of the month. More photos of Yarn Bomb OLLI Mason, courtesy of Paul Howard, are available at the following link (or better yet, come see it for yourself): https://photos.app.goo.gl/H99mEaYscAGctoej9.

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Board of Directors Meeting January 16

 

By Robert Heyer, Secretary


President Debbie Engleson opened the OLLI Board of Directors meeting on Friday (January 16) in TA-1 and on Zoom. She announced that Bob Heyer has been approved by the Board as the new Board Nominating Committee Chair. He will have Toni Acton, Doris Bloch, Kathryn McGeehan, and Tom McDonald as members to nominate candidates to replace 5 of the 15 members on the Board. Debbie tasked the committee to recommend 5 candidates who can help the Board in areas like financial management, legal, marketing, and fund raising. The election will be after the Board meeting in May this year.

Although we began 2025 with a budget deficit, we were successful in finishing with a surplus thanks to the financial management of our Finance Committee, Treasurer, and new Executive Director, Lisa Mariam. Our Development Committee chair, Al Smuzynski, was most successful in soliciting donations from our membership from our normal $40,000 to $50,000+ for 2025! The audit of our 2024 finances was also completed.

We have increased our membership to more than 928, with 50 new members for our winter term. On Friday, May 8th, we will be holding the “OLLI Ideas Festival” to show our friends and potential members what OLLI is like with some classes, clubs, and activities. INVITE your FAMILY and FRIENDS to COME and SEE! This year is the 250th anniversary of the United States, and our classes will have that theme where appropriate.

Five resolutions on improving our OLLI Bylaws and Policy & Procedures Manual were discussed and are in process of implementation or further update.

Our next Board meeting will be at 10:00 on Friday, February 20. Come join us in TA-1 or on Zoom.
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Open the Doors! The OLLI Mason Guest Pass

 

By Nancy Klein, Communications Associate


Joining a new organization often requires an upfront membership fee. For someone on the fence, a guest pass acts as a "test drive." It allows them to experience the quality of the instructors and the warmth of the community without a financial commitment. Once they see the value firsthand, the transition to a full membership becomes a natural next step.

You are OLLI Mason’s best ambassadors. By handing out guest passes, you turn a casual recommendation into a formal invitation by saying, "Don't just take my word for it—come check us out!”

Starting now, you can pick up guest passes at the main office. Guest passes (see figure for the guest pass front and back) will also be included in your spring term catalog. Let’s grow our circle of lifelong learners together.

We can’t wait to meet your guests!
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Spotlight on NOVA Course Series in 2026

 

By Camille Hodges, OLLI HSS/CE Committee Chair


The Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events (HSS/CE) Program Planning Group plans to continue featuring various communities in NOVA in its upcoming selections of courses. We have previously featured A Place Called Ilda (a community in the Annandale/Canterbury Woods area) as well as other notable communities in Fairfax by the authors of Black Communities of Fairfax: A History. Anticipated courses  are: Falls Church/Tinner Hill, Arlington (Green Valley (Nauck), Arlington View (Johnson’s Hill), Alexandria), and a history of the Fairfax County Courthouse.

If you have the desire to share expertise on historic regions in NOVA, please submit your course proposal using the link https://olli.gmu.edu/olli-course-proposal-form/ to me at mailto:mmimihodges4@gmail.

 
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OLLI Ink Now Taking Submissions

By Margie Wildblood and Sophia Elberti, Co-Editors

It’s that time again! OLLI Ink 2026 is now accepting prose, poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and essays for our literary magazine. We want to publish the OLLI Ink issue by the  beginning of April for Poetry Month.

Now in its 16th 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, art, and photography classes.

How to Submit: Send your entries and/or questions to both co-editors. Submissions should be formatted in Word (preferred) or pdf. Make sure your name and contact information are included on your entry. Include a maximum 50-word biography in your email.

DEADLINE: Monday, February 9, 11:59.
Send information to: Margie Wildblood [email protected]; Sophia Elberti [email protected]

GUIDELINES:
Poems – limit length to 30 lines
Prose – limit length to 2,500 words single-spaced
Art/Photos - A separate call with a different deadline will follow later about how to submit these items.

Editor’s Note: This article appeared in the previous E-News issue, but it is repeated here to encourage you to submit prose, poetry, and/or photo(s) for publication in OLLI Ink.

 
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Celebrate the New Year on a High Note with OLLI's Theater Lovers' Group

 

By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group


What is more celebratory than listening to heartfelt music, feeling the warmth of reuniting with an old friend from long ago, or experiencing the unbreakable human spirit and the power of love? Gather your friends and plan to join the Theater Lovers Group (TLG) to see Mason Cabaret Heart and Music: The Songs of William Finn, The Sunshine Boys, and Once on This Island, with an optional lunch beforehand.

Mason Cabaret
On Sunday, February 1 at 2pm, we will attend the matinee performance of Mason Cabaret Heart and Music: The Songs of William Finn in Harriman Theatre on the George Mason University campus. Mason's Ambassadors perform songs from Finn's award-winning musicals. Purchase Senior tickets for $19 at cfa.gmu. We will meet for lunch at 12 noon at Oh George, located on the lower level of Braddock Shopping Center, which is about five minutes from the theater.

The Sunshine Boys
On Sunday, February 8 at 2pm, we will attend the matinee performance of Neil Simon's The Sunshine Boys performed by the Vienna Theatre Company at the Vienna Community Center. This is a touching and humorous story of the reunion of two vaudeville comedians long estranged. Purchase Senior tickets for $16 at viennatheatrecompany.org. We will meet for lunch at 12 noon at the Carnegie Diner on Route 123 in Vienna.




Once on This Island
On Sunday, February 15, at 3pm, we will attend the matinee performance of Once on This Island performed by the City of Fairfax Theatre Company at Katherine Johnson Middle School on Jermantown Road in Fairfax. This Caribbean-inspired musical features dynamic storytelling, vibrant music, and electrifying dance. Purchase tickets for $30.60 at fairfaxcitytheatre.org. We will meet for lunch at 12 noon at Luciano' Restaurant on Route 123 in Fairfax.

Tickets for all three plays are general admission and guests are always welcome. We have separate checks at the lunches. Free parking is available at each location, however, there is a fee to park in Mason's parking garage. We do carpool, just email me if you would like to carpool.

Also, if you would like to join TLG for lunch and a show, please email me at [email protected] so I have a count for making reservations.

Looking forward to seeing you at the theater!

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

 
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Tallwood Book Club

 

By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator


At its regularly scheduled meeting on February 13, the Tallwood Book Club will have a Zoom visit with Margie Wildblood, who has recently published her memoir, Because He Loved Me: A Story of the Transformative Power of Love.

In March, the discussion will be on three chapters (Son, Autism, and Transgender) of Andrew Solomon’s Far From the Tree: Parents, Children, and the Search for Identity.

In April, the book is The Briar Club by Kate Quinn and in May two more chapters from Far From the Tree.

All these meetings are on Zoom at 2:30 the second Tuesday of every month.
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These 17 modifiable risk factors affect your risk for dementia, stroke, and depression 17 factors affecting your risk for dementia, stroke and depression | CNN. See how many apply to you.
From the Healthcare Advisory Workgroup

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Photography Club
By John Olsen and Lynn Cline,
Photography Club Coordinators
There are still two classes of the Introductory Class on Photography left: January 27 and February 3. Classes begin at 9:40 at Tallwood (TA-3) or by Zoom. If you have an interest in improving your photography skills or just better understanding some of the photographic skills, this class may be for you. You can still sign up and attend. Check the winter catalog or the daily Zoom links.

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

DINKY DOODLE & DITSY DAFFY

My dinky, dingy decadent dog is a real dirtbag.
Everyday, he dashes out the door without his tag,
Looking for the dame dog Daffy, a dowdy, dumpy Doberman.
Doggone! I don’t get why Doodle is devoted to Daffy,
his courtesan.

Can a dachshund and a doberman have pups?
Once the duet is done with deliverance
And Doodle’s a daddy, we’ll see what’s up.
Congrats to ditsy Daffy and the dandy new pups!

–Joan Lunsford

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances January 23 through February 2


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) has several web sites of performances, talks etc.
CFA ticket purchase page
Center for the Arts YouTube channel 
Hylton ticket purchase page
the new https://masonartsamplified.gmu.edu/
music.calendar.gmu.edu/
theater.calendar.gmu.edu/

dance.calendar.gmu.edu
masonexhibitions.org/
If you miss a live performance, there is a pay-per-view for many: https://cfa.gmu.edu/events/paid-digital-performances. 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 above) or visit the venue's box office.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.

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At the Fairfax Campus

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Fri, Jan 23, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Concert Hall
Admission: $91, $76, $60.

Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Poetic Tone Pictures
Sun, Jan 25, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $52, $38.

 
Back to Top of Page
Fairfax Visual Arts
(details can be found at https://www.masonexhibitions.org/)
 
The Mirage of Ancient Egypt: Exploring Ancient
Egypt’s Legacy in Popular Culture

Through February 13, 2026
Fenwick Gallery

Prescription is Home
January 23 - April 18, 2026
Mason Exhibitions, Arlington Campus
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Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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


Mason Cabaret: Heart and Music, The Songs of William Finn
Fri, Jan 30, 7:30
Sat, Jan 31, 2:00 and 7:30
Sun, Feb 1, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $35 Adult, $19 Senior.

Guest Recital: Michael Burner, trombone
Mon, Feb 2, 6:30
Music Theater Building, 1023
Admission: Free.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Pied Piper Theatre - Grease
Fri, Jan 23, 7:00
Sat, Jan 24, 7:00
Sun, Jan 25, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30 Adult, $24 Senior.
 
Aquila Theatre: Hound of the Baskervilles
Sun, Jan 25, 4:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55, $48, $35.


Visual Arts: OFFERINGS TO THE POTOMAC
ACKNOWLEDGING INDIGENOUS PLACE

February 24 - May 15, 2026
Buchanan Hall Atrium Gallery, Manassas Campus

Back to Top of Page

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

Back to Top of Page

Meetings & Clubs

Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information).

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week. Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members.


 
Sat Jan 24 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jan 26
 
 
 9:30 am
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jan 27
 
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jan 28
 
 
 
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Page Turner Club – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Thu Jan 29
 
 
 3:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jan 30
 
 
 
 9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Jan 31 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 2
 
 9:30 am
 4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 3
 
 
 2:00 pm
 3:45 pm
 4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Feb 4
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
11:50 am
11:50 am
12:00 noon
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 1:30 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
Investment Forum
Literary Roundtable – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Feb 5
 
 
 
11:50 am
 3:00 pm
 4:30 pm
 6:00 pm
All the News
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Feb 6
 
 
 
 
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Feb 7 10:30 am Tai Chi Club – online

 

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editors: David Gundry, Deborah Kruesi


Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, Chitra Mohla, John Nash, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Thomas Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.

Back to Top of Page

Filed Under: OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

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