Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews February 10, 2023

by

OLLI E-News February 10, 2023
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Dr. Jane Flinn, Associate Professor of Psychology at Mason, Provided a Very Informative Review of the Causes, Consequences, and Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease, February 2. Watch for the Recorded Video on the OLLI Website.

February 10, 2023


Editor of the Week: Sheri Siesseger 
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Board of Directors meeting, 10:00, Friday, February 17, via Zoom and in-person at Tallwood in TA-1. All members are welcome to attend.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 17; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 14, at 6:00.

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Nominations Open for 2023 Board of Directors Election


By Marilyn Harriman, Board Member, and Nominating Committee Chair
 

The OLLI Board of Directors Nominating Committee is recruiting candidates from our members for the 2023 Board of Directors. This year, five new board members will be elected to replace members whose terms are ending. Board members serve three-year terms of office.

The only prerequisite to becoming a candidate for election to the board is being an OLLI member who wants to contribute ideas and enjoys volunteering.
 
Being a Board member is a great way to play an active role in OLLI Mason's transition to our future “new normal.” It’s also a great way to learn more about the inner workings of OLLI and meet other members.
 
The Board meets monthly in person/on Zoom during the year except in December, May (annual membership meeting), and August.
 
Currently, Board members are working to increase membership and energize members in Northern Virginia to attend more in-person classes and events. Board members are planning ways to optimize our Zoom program planning. There is also a need in the areas of marketing, finance, and fundraising.
 
If you are interested in being a Board member, want further information, or would like to nominate another OLLI member, please contact the Nominating Chair, Marilyn Harriman, at [email protected].  
 
Friends, Countrymen, Give Us Your Ideas!

By Bernie Oppel, History Program Planning Group Co-Chair



The History Program Planning Group at OLLI has been fortunate over the years to receive many good course suggestions, and to have many excellent volunteer instructors, allowing for an extensive array of history courses offered each OLLI session.

Recent OLLI member surveys indicate strong interest in broadening the scope and depth of our history offerings, proposing courses in areas such as Greece and Rome, China, Japan, Australia, Russia, art history, and the Korean War.

These are great ideas to expand the list of compelling OLLI history courses! Ideas are good; we also need instructors! Do you have a topic that inspires you and that you believe would interest OLLI members? Are you willing to share your interest and knowledge and become a volunteer OLLI instructor? Do you have friends or acquaintances with unique knowledge about a topic who might be willing to be an OLLI instructor? Recruit them! We’re also looking for instructors to teach the topics in the areas listed above. Instructors get technical support from OLLI for both in-person and Zoom classes.

Planning for fall term 2023 and winter term 2024 is now in progress. We’d love your input!

Even better, if you’re willing to volunteer to teach a course, use the Course Proposal Form on the OLLI website.
Or send your suggestions to any of the History Program Planning Group members: Thanks!
OLLI Receives Generous Member Contributions


By Al Smuzynski, Development Committee Chair


In December 2022, OLLI received three generous contributions from long-time members, of $4,000, $5,000, and $20,000. OLLI regularly receives contributions used to support Mason student scholarships and to support the OLLI budget. These large contributions will help OLLI navigate the changes to programming and delivering courses made necessary by the pandemic. We are grateful for these gifts.

OLLI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and contributions are tax deductible to the donors. Contributions can be made through Qualified Charitable Distributions from retirement accounts, Donor Advised Funds, or in your will. OLLI staff can assist donors using these methods to give. Donors of such gifts made to Osher Lifelong Institute at George Mason University are identified as “Friends of OLLI” (FOLLI).

OLLI Weekly Conversations Continue – February 15

By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators

Continuing our Wednesday conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate a Zoom discussion on February 15 at 4:00. Our chosen topic this week is “Centenarians.”

The Washington Post (WaPo) recently ran an article about folks who achieved the age of 100 and over. The oldest person in the world, a French nun, recently passed away at age 118, leaving two 115-year-olds as the current record holders. There are 593,000 known centenarians around the world as of 2022, with the largest numbers living in the US and Japan. A professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago plans to launch an online app where people can upload data from a genetic testing service to identify their likelihood of exceptional longevity and plan accordingly. But genes are only about 25% of the picture. What are the pros and cons of such a long life and what is your own opinion on this “trend”? Would you want to know your odds in advance?

Check your daily‑schedule email for the Zoom link on Wednesdays and plan on some social time with Team Bloch.

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Shhhh! It’s a Secret! Let’s Change That: A Message from Your OLLI Outreach Committee



By Debby Mossburg, Outreach Committee Chair

 

The Outreach Committee is currently expanding efforts to increase membership to help address important projected budget considerations.

We hope you'll agree that joining the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at George Mason University was among the best decisions you made when retired or nearing retirement. Members soon learn that the organization provides both great value and numerous opportunities to stimulate their intellectual curiosity. With this in mind, we are reaching out to request your assistance to tell future and current retirees and other seniors about OLLI.

Can you help us reach out to the organizations you've been a part of? These could be government, professional, military or any other educational or social groups whose members might be interested in learning about OLLI. We have presentations ready to go for your organization and volunteers eager to present them.

Please let us know if you would be willing to connect us with your organization so that we can offer a presentation about OLLI to its members. Email (Subject Line: Outreach Committee) or phone either Debby Mossburg ([email protected]/703-973-8080) or Jerry Schrager ([email protected] /703-241-4560).

Your help will be GREATLY appreciated.

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OLLI Walk & Talk Club News
Walk & Talk Club Plans Valentine's Day Hike


By Marilyn Harriman, Walk & Talk Club Co‑Chair


The OLLI Walk & Talk Club plans a light hike on the trails around Huntsman Lake, off Dorothy Lane in West Springfield, on February 14 at 2:00. After our 50–60 minute trek, those who would like continued conversation and beverage will meet at Chloez Café, 5622 Ox Road, Unit F, Fairfax Station.

Club members must sign up for the February 14 walk with Marilyn Harriman at [email protected] or Bob Heyer, [email protected].

Not in the club, but want to join? It’s easy! Just register through the OLLI member portal. In the search engine, type “OLLI Walk Talk Winter 2023.” Club members receive specific parking and orientation details.

Coffee at Tous Les Jours Café, Annandale
By Bob Heyer, Walk & Talk Club Co‑Chair
On Friday, February 3, the OLLI Walk & Talk Club had planned an excursion led by Michael Nephew along a different trail through Mason District Park, starting at the parking lot near the tennis courts. However, discretion was the better part of valor when we found the weather too cold and windy, so we went straight to the Tous Les Jours Café in Annandale for coffee and conversation. And fun was had by all with a beautiful selection of confections and coffee in the recently opened café. The café was packed with people, and our biggest challenge was corralling fourteen chairs. So, we split into two groups, thanks to some very polite customers around us, and had a wonderful time trading many tales about our past winter ventures when we were young and cold was not part of our vocabulary. (Photos by Marilyn Harriman)
Computer Club
3rd Saturday, February 18 Via Zoom
Death by a Thousand Clicks: The Mighty Electronic Health Record
Learn in 30: 2022 Presentation Updates


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 18, via Zoom. Program begins at 1:00; the Zoom session usually opens at 12:45.
 
Death by a Thousand Clicks: A Backdoor Look at the Mighty Electronic Health Record – Presented by Michele Romano, MD

The technology tsunami continues worldwide, and no more so than in the healthcare field. We have tools for diagnosis, management, prevention, treatment, and communication that would not be possible without today’s computer capabilities. This talk is a deep dive into one aspect which affects the lives of patients and providers alike: the Electronic Health Record (EHR). It not only stores your health information, but it also captures vast amounts of data for public health and socioeconomic issues. Sounds wonderful, doesn't it? Sometimes yes, sometimes no.

Dr. Michele Romano is a retired family physician and associate clinical professor at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine in Richmond, Virginia. She has an undergraduate degree in biology and received her medical degree from VCU. She has over 25 years of experience in family medicine.
 
Learn in 30: 2022 Presentation Updates – Presented by John Krout
 
This Learn in 30 will provide useful updates on three of John's 2022 presentations:
  • Internet Radio on the Road, Safely (April 2022);
  • Record 4K resolution Video with your Smart Phone (May 2022)
  • Stream Audio from your Computer (August 2022).
Changes and improvements are available for each of those topics, and John will provide details. If you missed any of these original 2022 presentations, then you will learn how to see the original presentation videos and slide deck PDFs.
 
John Krout is a frequent presenter at our meetings on a wide range of computer, technology, and photography topics, and author of many articles for the PATACS Posts newsletter.
 
See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 for 2023—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45, please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 085407 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 860 4783 3447 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method) or dial in – 301-715-8592.
New Class: Gentle Stretch


By Bonnie Nelson, Member, Board of Directors


OLLI-Mason welcomes Paulette Rainie who will be teaching 1201Z Gentle Stretch on Wednesday mornings February 22-March 22, 8:30-9:20. Participants should have a mat (or comfortable way to lie down) and a strap (yoga, strap, old tie, or long towel will do). Registration is via the member portal at this link. For questions, contact Bonnie Nelson at [email protected]. (Photo courtesy of Paulette Rainie).
Upcoming Mason Jazz Events Reminders


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


Reminder: the Mason Jazz Festival is coming up on Saturday, February 18, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm in the Harris Theatre on the Mason campus. It is free and open to the public. For more information, click here.

Also this month, the Mason jazz faculty return to Washington’s historic Blues Alley. There will be 7:00 and 9:00 shows on Monday, February 27. For tickets, click this link.
 
The Mason Jazz Camp will be held June 19‑23. For registration and camp details, click here.
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Memoir Sliver
 
Hitchhiking,
I didn’t get to Orrville until 4 pm.
Railroad hoboes were gathered around a fire,
just far enough from the train yard to avoid intervention.
Something in a smoke-scorched tin sat bubbling in the coals.
A brown-bagged bottle of something else was being passed from man to man.
In my beard, long hair, and bellbottoms, I felt uneasy, but joined them.
They greeted me, passed the bottle.
I smiled, passed it on, without drinking.
They didn’t seem to care.
“Anybody know about the train to Portola,” I asked.
One of the men said, “Yeah. Be here around 5.”
“How will I know it?”
I’ll tell you.”
“Thanks.”
“Ever rode before?”
“No. Any tips?”
“Pick a flat car. Ride under the deck, over the wheels. Protect you from the weather.”
“Weather?”
“Yeah. You’ll get some snow going over the mountain.”
“What about a box car?”
“Never know what you’ll find in a box car.”
He turned to talk to someone else.
You never know what you’ll find anywhere, I thought to myself.
                                                                                                   
                                                                           Ed Sadtler

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, February 10 through February 20


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


Current vaccination policy for the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center is summarized as follows:

Audience members are not currently required to show proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test result for most events except when required by the event organizer or artist. If proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for a specific event, it will be indicated on the webpage with event details.

Specific requirements are detailed and any future policy changes may be found here: https://cfa.gmu.edu/plan-your-visit/vaccination-policy.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

 

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: Rachel Barton Pine, Violin

Sat, Feb 11, 8:00

Concert Hall

Admission: $65, $40, $15 student.

 

Czech National Symphony Orchestra

Sun, Feb 12, 2:00

Concert Hall

A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.

Admission: $70, $60, $45.

Mason Jazz Festival 2023
Sat, Feb 18, 10:00 (am) - 10:00 (pm)
The Ben Patterson "Way of the Groove,” 1:00
United States Navy Band Commodores, 7:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
 
Doug Varone and Dancers: Somewhere; Aperture/Short Story; Double Octet
Sat, Feb 18, 8:00
Concert Hall

  • A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
  • After the performance, Doug Varone will participate in a post-performance discussion from the stage.

Admission: $48, $41, $29.
 
Voctave: The Corner of Broadway and Main Street
Sun, Feb 19, 4:00
Concert Hall

After the performance, Doug Varone will participate in a post-performance discussion from the stage.

Admission: $50, $43, $30.
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

Mason Cabaret: Sing Happy! The Music of Kander & Ebb

Sun, Feb 14, 4:00

Center for the Arts YouTube channel.

Dewberry Faculty Artist Series: Composition Recital
Sun, Feb 19, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
 
Dewberry Faculty Artist Series: Eunae Ko Han and Friends Recital
Sun, Feb 19, 7:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
 
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)
 

11th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Student Exhibition

Through Feb 18

Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery

Admission: Free.

  

Mason School of Theater: Mason Cabaret in Concert

Fri, Feb 10, 8:00

Gregory Family Theater

Admission: $30 Adult, $15 senior.

 

Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble, Pepperland

Sat, Feb 11, 8:00

Merchant Hall

  • A pre-performance discussion with Company Director Sam Black begins one hour prior to the performance.
  • A post-performance discussion following Pepperland will be held on Merchant Hall stage with Mark Morris, choreographer and founder of the Mark Morris Dance Group, and with Pepperland composer, Ethan Iverson.
Admission: $55, $47, $33.

 

Llama Llama Live

Sun, Feb 12, 1:00 and 4:00

Merchant Hall

Wear your favorite pajamas to the performance and be sure to join us for activities from 12:00 to 12:45 and 3:00 to 3:45, including a family story time in the Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Room!
Admission: $15.

Virginia National Ballet: Aladdin
Sun, Feb 19, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $45, $40, $35.

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For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.3

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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: Although some physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled, some may be meeting in person or, in a hybrid mode, both in person and online. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Feb 11 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Feb 13  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Feb 14
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Walk & Talk Club
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 15  4:00 pm Mah Jongg Club
Thu Feb 16  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 17
 
 
 		  9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Feb 18
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Feb 20
 
 		  
 9:30 am
11:00 am		 OLLI Office Closed
What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Reading Club
Tue Feb 21
 		  9:30 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 22
 
 		 10:00 am
10:30 am
 2:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Feb 23
 		 11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 24
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon		 Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Photography Club
Sat Feb 25 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Jane Hassell

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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ENews February 3, 2023

by

OLLI E-News February 3, 2023
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Vice Admiral John W. Miller, US Navy (Ret.), Discusses When Strategic Competition Becomes Strategic Confrontation, January 20

February 3, 2023


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 10; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 7, at 6:00.
It’s in Your Hands!


By Debby Mossburg, Outreach Committee Chair



Did you know that YOU can help OLLI to expand membership to keep us financially healthy and make a great program greater? A short piece that advertises the OLLI program has been approved and run in neighborhood newsletters at no cost and with good success. Would you be willing to make a phone call or send an email to have that same piece run in your neighborhood newsletter?

If you can help, we'll send you a PDF of the article with George Mason and OLLI logos. To follow up, or for any questions you may have, please contact Jim Dann at [email protected] (phone: 703-690-7982), or Debby Mossburg at [email protected] (phone: 703-973-8080).

You’ve got the power to make a real difference! Thanks.
OLLI Ink Needs Your Poetry and Prose for its 2023 Edition!


By Caroline McNeil, OLLI Ink Editor



OLLI writers—beginners and experienced—take note: here’s your chance to get your poetry and prose published. OLLI Ink is now accepting submissions, including poems, fiction, personal essays, memoirs, and more for its 2023 edition.
 
Now moving into its 13th year, OLLI Ink is a well-established publication whose contributors come from a wide spectrum of OLLI members, including, but not limited to, those enrolled in writing workshops.
 
How to Submit: Please send your entries and/or any questions to Caroline McNeil at [email protected].
 
Guidelines:
Poems – limit the number of lines to 30
Prose – limit the number of words to 2,500, single-spaced.
 
Contributions are welcome through the end of February.
 

Tallwood Book Club



By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator




The Tallwood Book Club holds its monthly Zoom meeting on the second Friday of each month from 2:30 to 4:00. The Zoom link appears in the daily schedule email. The February 10 meeting will discuss The Children Act by Ian McEwan.

The March discussion will be on Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks.

 

Questions may be directed to Betty Ellerbee at [email protected].
OLLI Walk & Talk Club Explores Fred Crabtree Park


By Bob Heyer, Walk & Talk Club Co-Chair



On Monday, January 23, as the sun banished the rain, Carol Esteki and Yen Tra led six Walk & Talk Club members into the woods of Fred Crabtree Park in Herndon. The well-marked trail surfaces were still muddy from the rain, and leaf-covered, but manageable.

As we ventured down the first steeper hill, the trail opened onto a beautiful stream flowing swiftly around large river rocks, a peaceful and picturesque scene. As we proceeded down the trail, we found a beautiful forest of Virginia holly trees with various green clubmosses on the ground sprouting up through the fallen leaves. We often stopped along the way to admire the many tall trees. Some fallen trees and stumps provided “holes and havens” for small birds and forest creatures. Although we didn’t see any deer or foxes, it was obvious that they were around. We made a figure 8 in trails and emerged back at the soccer field parking lot after two miles and a little over an hour. (Photo by Bob Heyer January 23, 2023)

Time for coffee and more conversation, so we headed to Le Vingt-Trois Café & Bakery in Herndon. The café was named “23” in French by the owner as it was his lucky number. For us, we were there on January 23, 2023, so it was our “lucky day” as well, being sunny in the middle of winter and comfortable outside. Thanks to our walk leaders Carol and Yen, it was a most enjoyable and beautiful walk through the woods and a great session at the Le Vingt-Trois Café & Bakery with eats, treats, and friendly conversations.
 
OLLI Weekly Conversations Continue – February 8



By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co-Moderators



Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate a Zoom discussion on February 8 at 4:00. Our chosen topic this week is “Plastics and their Ubiquity.”
 
Do you know what your life might be without plastics? Very different, for sure. Go back to the 1940s or 1950s and think about it. (And if you weren’t born yet in the 1950s, my apologies.) Cars made of all metal. Cellophane wrappers – oh, wait, isn’t cellophane a plastic material, too? Hair combs made of?? Razors made of?? Glass soda bottles? It boggles the mind.  
 
Did you know that there is a Plastics Historical Society, based in London England? You do now!

Check your OLLI daily schedule for the Zoom link on Wednesdays and plan on some social time with Team Bloch.

Upcoming Mason Jazz Events in February and Spring Term



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




Here are some great Mason jazz events coming up, a couple this month and the highly anticipated Mason Jazz Camp in June. Mark your calendars.

MASON JAZZ FESTIVAL
Saturday, February 18
10:00 (am) - 10:00 (pm)
Harris Theatre
Free and Open to the Public
For more information, click here.

The Mason Jazz Festival is an invitational event open to middle school, high school, collegiate, and community Jazz ensembles. This festival will take place Saturday, February 18, 2023, on the George Mason University Fairfax campus. Community members can attend concerts of the high school bands as well as our guest groups, the Ben Patterson Group and US Navy Band Commodores! Special appearance by the Mason Jazz Ensemble, directed by Jim Carroll!


MASON JAZZ FACULTY at BLUES ALLEY
Monday, February 27
7:00 and 9:00 Shows
Tickets: Click this link.

Jazz Faculty from George Mason University return to Washington D.C.'s historic Blues Alley! Our faculty are well-respected performers and dedicated educators, current and former members of the Washington D.C. military bands as well as staples in the DC jazz scene. They have toured nationally and internationally, conducted masterclasses at universities, camps, and workshops nation-wide, and contributed to books and videos about jazz education.

The Mason Jazz faculty are Wade Beach (piano), Graham Breedlove (trumpet), Jim Carroll (saxophone), Aaron Eckert (trombone), John Kocur (saxophone), Kevin McDonald (drums), Xavier Perez (saxophone), Zack Pride (bass), Victor Provost (steel pan), Darden Purcell (voice), Shawn Purcell (guitar) and Rick Whitehead (guitar).


MASON JAZZ CAMP
June 19-23, 2023
Responsible people of all ages are welcome to attend.
For registration and camp details, click here.
 

The Mason Jazz Camp, held on the George Mason University Fairfax Campus, is an inclusive, intensive program, for musicians (instrumental and vocal) of all levels with a desire to advance their musical artistry and professionalism. The Mason Jazz Camp offers classes in improvisation, jazz theory, ear training, performance practice (big bands and combos), composition, arranging and jazz history. Students have the opportunity to study and participate in master classes and concerts with leading educators and performers in the Washington D.C., Virginia, and Maryland region.


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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Checkers

 

white jumped my pips

three times slanting across 

the board to a king

 

I’d passed by this park

hundreds of times

before daring to play

 

my partner’s dark eyes 

mocked me with a bare hint 

of weary kindness

 

He leans back 

as a skateboarder

screeched around us

 

I know my weakness,

I only play offense

always driving forward

 

never looking back 

to see what threats

approach from behind

 

the heat was rising

the birds oddly quiet,

as time hazed out

 

tossing a few dollars down,

I head into the elms

further away from home

 

wishing for a new endgame,

one where you didn’t jump 

into the dark without me

               
                  Valerie Horton

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, Februrary 3 through Februrary 18


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468, buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below), or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket page or the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.

Current vaccination policy for the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center is summarized as follows:

Audience members are not currently required to show proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test result for most events except when required by the event organizer or artist. If proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for a specific event, it will be indicated on the webpage with event details.

Specific requirements are detailed and any future policy changes may be found here: https://cfa.gmu.edu/plan-your-visit/vaccination-policy.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues
 

Virginia Opera: Fellow Travelers

Sat, Feb 4, 8:00

Sun, Feb 5, 2:00

Concert Hall

  • A pre-performance discussion featuring Virginia Opera Resident Scholar, Joshua Borths, will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
  • On Feb 4, PEN/Faulkner Award finalist Thomas Mallon, author of the 2007 novel Fellow Travelers, on which this opera is based, will participate in a post-performance discussion from the stage.
  • On Feb 5, Virginia Opera Resident Scholar Joshua Borths will lead a post-performance discussion with the artists in the Center for the Arts main lobby.
Admission: $110, $70, $40.

 

Sankofa Danzafro: The City of Others

Sat, Feb 6, 8:00

Admission: $15-$45, Pay-What-You-Wish in $5 increments. This is an on-line presentation. (click here).

 

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: Rachel Barton Pine, Violin

Sat, Feb 11, 8:00

Concert Hall

Admission: $65, $40, $15 student.

 

Czech National Symphony Orchestra

Sun, Feb 12, 2:00

Concert Hall

A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.

Admission: $70, $60, $45.
Mason Student and Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Mason Cabaret

Fri, Feb 3, 8:00

Sat, Feb 4, 2:00 and 8:00

Harris Theatre

Admission: $30 Adult, $15 senior.

 

Dewberry Faculty Artist Series: Kerry Wilkerson, bass-baritone

Sun, Feb 5, 3:00

Harris Theatre

Admission: Free

 

Mason Cabaret: Sing Happy! The Music of Kander & Ebb

Sun, Feb 14, 4:00

Center for the Arts YouTube channel.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)


11th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Student Exhibition

Through Feb 18

Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery

Admission: Free.

 

Machine de Cirque

Sat, Feb 4, 8:00

Sun, Feb 5, 2:00

Merchant Hall

Admission: $48, $41, $29.

 

Mason School of Theater: Mason Cabaret in Concert

Fri, Feb 10, 8:00

Gregory Family Theater

Admission: $30 Adult, $15 senior.

 

Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble, Pepperland

Sat, Feb 11, 8:00

Merchant Hall

  • A pre-performance discussion with Company Director Sam Black begins one hour prior to the performance.
  • A post-performance discussion following Pepperland will be held on Merchant Hall stage with Mark Morris, choreographer and founder of the Mark Morris Dance Group, and with Pepperland composer, Ethan Iverson.
Admission: $55, $47, $33.

 

Llama Llama Live

Sun, Feb 12, 1:00 and 4:00

Merchant Hall

Wear your favorite pajamas to the performance and be sure to join us for activities from 12:00 to 12:45 and 3:00 to 3:45, including a family story time in the Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Room!
Admission: $15.

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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: Although some physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled, some may be meeting in person or, in a hybrid mode, both in person and online. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Feb 4 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Feb 6  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Feb 7  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 8
 
 
 		  1:45 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 6:00 pm		 Spanish Club
Memoir and More Writing Group
Mah Jongg Club
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Feb 9  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 10
 
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Feb 11 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Feb 13  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Feb 14
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Walk & Talk Club
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 15  4:00 pm Mah Jongg Club
Thu Feb 16  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 17
 
 
 		  9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Feb 18
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
 

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Jane Hassell

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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ENews January 27, 2023

by

OLLI E-News January 27, 2023
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Board of Directors Meeting, Tallwood, January 20

January 27, 2023


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Note: At this time, OLLI staff are no longer checking COVID vaccination cards. For any in-person activities, masks continue to remain optional, but members who wish to wear them are welcome to do so. (Of course, for the 2023 winter term, classes are virtual only.)
  • Note: The Mason music academy has a program to receive donations of old musical instruments. If you have an instrument to donate that you think might be suitable, click here.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 3; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, January 31, at 6:00.

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January Board Meeting Highlights
By Gloria Loew, Secretary

Photo by Paul Van Hemel January 20, 2023
 
The OLLI Board of Directors met at Tallwood on January 20. Some of the key topics discussed were:
  • President Lillian Brooks and ED Jennifer Disano have begun talking with several senior living community organizations in the area to explore ways in which we might offer our programming to them through a mutually beneficial association. 
  • The Board continues to work on activities from the strategic plan to strengthen our organization.
  • A resolution was approved to appoint Marilyn Harriman to chair the Nominating Committee that will develop a slate of candidates for the five new Board members who will be elected this spring.
  • The Board discussed the updated COVID guidelines developed for members by the Health Advisory Workgroup consistent with GMU and CDC guidelines of Mason and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Health and Safety Update, January 2023


By Michele Romano, MD, Health Advisory Work Group Chair


Winter has arrived with all its winter viruses including COVID. Historically, winter virus season is over by mid-March, just in time for OLLI spring term.

To prevent infection, slow transmission, and protect yourself, individuals should follow the latest CDC guidelines: What to Do If You Were Exposed to COVID-19 | CDC.  The key is to stay home if you do not feel well.

XBB 1.5 is now the predominant COVID variant in the U.S. It is so contagious that most of us will be exposed to it this winter. The good news is that very few people are getting seriously ill or dying from it. Per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, people who have been exposed but are asymptomatic should wear a good mask (N95, KN95) indoors and around others for 10 days. There is no need to isolate just for exposure. Do test on day 6, though, to be sure you are still negative.

When OLLI welcomes everyone back for in-person classes in spring, you will see some changes on the OLLI Health and Safety Protocols link. All members are still required to personally attest that they are fully vaccinated against COVID with the original 2‑shot series. However, you will no longer have to show us your vaccination card. Even though masks continue to remain optional, we support all those who wish to wear one.

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The Joy of Classroom Teaching


By Barbara Wilan, Loudoun Program Chair


There is a special magic that thrives only in a live classroom, and I love being the magician who generates that magic. I hear the laughter. I see the engaged, intelligent faces as they interact with me and the material and come to a new understanding. I feel the pleasure that my students get from learning something new, listening to their own and their classmates’ responses to the material, and, best of all, enjoying being with me and each other. For me, as a teacher and as a human being, there is nothing like that atmosphere and that connection. I feed off of the energy and enthusiasm in the classroom.

But every magician needs an audience who responds to the magic; every teacher needs learners who are engaged and committed to learning.

There are no good teachers without good students. Please come back to the classroom. OLLI needs you. Your instructors and fellow students need you.

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History Club


By Elizabeth Lambert, History Club Coordinator


The February meeting of the History Club will take place on Wednesday, Feb 1 at 4:00. Elva Card will give a presentation on Mary McLeod Bethune. Born the fifteenth of seventeen children to parents who had been slaves, and educated in church schools, Bethune went on to found the National Council of Negro Women, to serve as director of the Division of Negro Affairs in Franklin D. Roosevelt’s National Youth Administration, and to be a member of the U.S. Delegation at the founding of the United Nations. Her story is an amazing one and a fitting topic for Black History month. All OLLI members are invited to attend this month’s Zoom meeting of the History Club at 4:00 on Wednesday, February 1.

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Join Theater Lovers' Group for a Talk, a Cabaret, and 46 Plays


By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator


Don't miss meeting Nicole Hertvik, editor and publisher of DC Theater Arts, today on Zoom from 1:00 to 2:30 when she talks about "Washington, D.C.: The Nation's Theater Capital?" Learn why theater in the Delaware/Maryland/Virginia area should be considered a national theater arts model and which theaters in the area focus on your kind of theater. Look for the Zoom link in today's OLLI daily schedule under Theater Lovers' Group meeting. Everyone is welcome to join us.
 
Ready for some toe-tapping music that will make you want to dance in the aisle and hum all the way home? Then come join OLLI's Theater Lovers on Saturday, February 4, at the 2:00 matinee of the Mason Cabaret: Baby Dream Your Dream, The Women of Broadway, to be performed in the Harris Theatre. But first, in keeping with the cabaret spirit, we'll have lunch (optional) at Ornery Beer Company, located on the corner of North Street and University Drive in Fairfax City, with a free parking garage next door. Senior tickets for the Cabaret are $15 and can be purchased online at theater.gmu.edu.
 
February is president's month. So, what is a better way to celebrate than to see a performance of 46 Plays for America's First Ladies on Sunday, February 12, at the 2:00 matinee at NextStop Theatre in Herndon? An entertaining, hilarious way to learn about American history through the eyes and experiences of America's first ladies. First, we'll gather for lunch (optional) at Carrabba's Italian Grill, located right across from the theater on Sunset Hills Road. Tickets cost $47 and can be purchased online at NextStopTheatre.org ASAP.
 
If you would like to join the Theater Lovers for either of the lunches and theater events, please purchase your tickets online, then email Norma at [email protected] to let me know so I can include you in our restaurant reservations. Guests are always welcome at our events, so feel free to invite friends and family. If you have any questions, please email me.

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Weekly Conversations Continue – February 1
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate a Zoom discussion on February 1 at 4:00. Our chosen topic this week is the artificial intelligence application ChatGPT. The app has written us a poem:

On a Wednesday afternoon, Doris and Brenda host a chat,

For OLLI members to tune in, And discuss this and that.

Mysteries, books, and travel too, Pet peeves and Open AI,

The topics are announced in the E-News, For all to hear and say.

Only one hour to share and learn, But oh what fun it brings,

To sit and chat with friends, On a Wednesday afternoon, it rings.

So join in, won't you, For a whimsical hour,

With Doris and Brenda, And their OLLI followers.
Check your Daily Schedule for the Zoom link on Wednesdays and plan on some social time with Team Bloch.

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OLLI Walk & Talk Club News

Club Members Walk On Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail


By Bob Heyer, OLLI Walk & Talk Co-Chair


Debby Mossburg led a group of 26 OLLI Walk & Talk members along the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail (GCCCT), starting at the King Arthur Road bridge crossing. We began later than usual at 2:00 on a beautiful sunny 60° plus day on January 18. Debby briefed the group that the GCCCT runs through some of Fairfax County’s most scenic areas, from Great Falls Park on the Potomac River and going south to the Occoquan River. As Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Gerry Connolly supported a proposal in 1997, and the Cross Country Trail was born.

The group headed northward towards the I-495 Beltway. Our group quickly stretched out, with the faster walkers striding up front and the less aggressive walkers talking their way along the trail. Although the path was paved, the vegetation, trees, and undergrowth along the stream were beautiful and like being in a secluded forest; only the noise of beltway traffic and airplanes overhead let us know we were in an urban environment. At 30 minutes into the walk, we turned around and headed back to our starting point to meet and go for coffee, sweets, and more, socializing at the Breeze Bakery and Café, a Korean/European-styled bakery. Debby Mossburg made it one of the MOST rewarding afternoons for all in the winter!
 
OLLI Walk & Talk February Winter Walks


By Marilyn Harriman, OLLI Walk & Talk Co-Chair


Weather permitting, the OLLI Walk & Talk Club will gather Friday, February 3, at 10:00 at Mason District Park, where Michael Nephew will show us more of the trails he introduced us to in September. This walk will be about an hour in length.  Parking: Enter Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale, and turn right. Follow the road to the parking lot and park there.

Afterward, we will gather at Tous Les Jours Bakery, 4243 John Marr Drive, Annandale, for a hot beverage and continued conversation (optional).

Tuesday, February 7, the club will meet at 2:00 at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, with Co‑Chair Bob Heyer leading us. This walk will be about an hour. Parking: As you enter the park, parking is on the left.

Afterward, those who want a snack or beverage will meet at the Swiss Bakery at 5224 Port Royal Road, Springfield.

On Tuesday, February 14, members will gather at Huntsman Lake Park in West Springfield at 2:00. Co‑Chair Marilyn Harriman will lead walkers on the trails for about an hour. Parking: From Fairfax County Parkway, turn onto Huntsman Blvd. Drive past the Huntsman (Giant Grocery) shopping center (on your right) and take a right on the street just after the shopping center: Dorothy Lane.

The park entrance we’re using is at the very end of Dorothy Lane. There is a semi-circle for cars to park. You may need to park in front of someone’s house depending on how big our group is and what other cars are parked there.

Afterward, those interested in a hot beverage and/or snack will meet at Chloez Café, 5622 Ox Road, Unit F, Fairfax Station.

RSVP: Email Marilyn or Bob ([email protected]  [email protected]) about the date(s) you will be coming, so we can wait for you. Call if you are running late: Marilyn: 703-725-0965; Bob: 571-214-8597.

OLLI Registration: Walkers are required to register for the club. If you haven’t yet, it’s easy: Log into the OLLI member portal and type in the search box “OLLI Walk and Talk Club Winter 2023” or Call 703-503-3384.

Cell Phone Numbers: If you have not, please provide your cell phone number. We need it to contact you in case of inclement weather or last-minute updates.

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Photo of the Month
The January 2023 Photo of the Month theme was open. We selected John Olsen's photo "View of Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan" which may also be viewed at this page. To view other photos by members of the Photography Club, visit the club's photo website.
              -- By John Olsen and Ed Marion, Photography Club Coordinators  

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

                 Directionally Challenged
 
In 500 feet turn right at the next light.
       Really?
In two miles, turn left onto Rolling Road.
       That doesn’t make sense.
BILL. Have you been here before? I have. Many times.
What’s with you? Every direction I provide, You second guess, go off on your own, request my directions again, usually with a nasty tone. I’m sick and tired of it.
       Who is this?
Who do I sound like? By the way, you missed your turn. Make a u turn at the next light.   Pull over? This may be hard to hear.
       What??
You ask for directions and then argue with them. You do this with me, your wife, others. If what they say doesn’t comport to your preconceptions, you become obnoxious. You waste a lot of time for yourself and others. Am I infallible? I’d like to think so given the billions of dollars spent on developing me. How much money has been spent on you? Why not trust, just trust, what I say?
       You may have a point. Ok, I’ll try.
Proceed to the route and then turn right onto Rolling Road.
       No way. That’s just wrong.
You’re hopeless.
                     I pity your wife.
                                                 -- Bill Sinclair

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, January 27 through February 6


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


Current vaccination policy for the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center is summarized as follows:

Audience members are not currently required to show proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test result for most events except when required by the event organizer or artist. If proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for a specific event, it will be indicated on the webpage with event details.

Specific requirements are detailed and any future policy changes may be found here: https://cfa.gmu.edu/plan-your-visit/vaccination-policy.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

The Acting Company: The Three Musketeers
Sat, Jan 28, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $50, $43, $30.
 
Silkroad Ensemble: Uplifted Voices
Sun, Jan 29, 8:00
Concert Hall
  • A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
  • The artists will participate in a post-performance discussion from the stage.
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
 
Virginia Opera: Fellow Travelers
Sat, Feb 4, 8:00
Sun, Feb 5, 2:00
Concert Hall
  • A pre-performance discussion featuring Virginia Opera Resident Scholar, Joshua Borths, will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
  • Following the Sat, Feb 4 performance, PEN/Faulkner Award finalist Thomas Mallon, author of the 2007 novel Fellow Travelers on which this opera is based, will participate in a post-performance discussion from the stage.
  • Following the Sun, Feb 5 matinee, Virginia Opera Resident Scholar Joshua Borths will lead a post-performance discussion with the artists in the Center for the Arts main lobby.
Admission: $110, $70, $40.
 
Sankofa Danzafro: The City of Others
Sat, Feb 6, 8:00
Admission: $15-$45, Pay-What-You-Wish in $5 increments (click here).
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

Dewberry Faculty Artist Series: Clarinet and Percussion
Sun, Jan 29, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
 
Dewberry Faculty Artist Series: Kerry Wilkerson, bass-baritone
Sun, Feb 5, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
 
Mason Cabaret
Fri, Feb 3, 8:00
Sat, Feb 4, 2:00 and 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $30 Adult, $15 senior.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

11th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Student Exhibition
Through Feb 18
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 
ARTFactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: Big Fish
Sat, Jan 28, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Jan 29, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 Adult, $16 senior.

Machine de Cirque
Sat, Feb 4, 8:00
Sun, Feb 5, 2:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.

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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: Although some physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled, some may be meeting in person or, in a hybrid mode, both in person and online. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.

 
Sat Jan 28 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Jan 30  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Jan 31  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 1
 
 		  4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
History Club
Conversations with Doris and Brenda
Thu Feb 2  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 3
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Feb 4 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Feb 6  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Feb 7  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 8
 
 
 		  1:45 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 6:00 pm		 Spanish Club
Memoir and More Writing Group
Mah Jongg Club
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Feb 9  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 10
 
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Feb 11 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 
























 

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Jane Hassell

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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ENews January 13, 2023

by

OLLI E-News January 13, 2023
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Homer, etc., January 6: A small group coordinated by Jan Bohall enjoys reading and analyzing traditional and contemporary classics 
from which members read aloud during weekly meetings

January 13, 2023


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Board of Directors will meet 10:00, January 20, via Zoom. All members welcome; Zoom link will appear in the daily schedule.

  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, January 27; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, January 24, at 6:00.

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OLLI President's Message January 13


By Lillian Brooks, President


First of all, I want to wish all OLLI members and their families a happy and healthy new year. As expected, 2022 was another vibrant year for OLLI. I have only been president for the last six months, but I quickly discovered that there is a lot to do to keep OLLI running. I continue to meet with various committee chairs and attend OLLI functions. The Board members are all worker bees and always have something to show or tell me. I have also worked closely with Executive Director Jennifer Disano on various projects and found some ways we hope we can bring in more members and more funding for OLLI. I especially enjoyed our meeting with the George Mason Provost and staff to discuss creative ways to enhance our partnership with the university. I learned what it takes to utilize technology to bring our programming to members.

As you know, in January and February there will be Zoom classes only. Last year there were multiple cancellations due to the winter weather, so the administrative staff decided to close the campus for the two-month period and only offer Zoom classes for the winter session. We will evaluate whether we should continue that practice as we make plans for winter 2024. Also, don’t forget that most classes are recorded, and you can access past classes by using the code found on the OLLI Mason daily schedule.

When the spring classes begin, it is my sincere hope that members will return to class in person even though many classes will still be in hybrid format. You have heard me say that one of OLLI’s greatest assets is the ability to socialize and meet new friends. This is why I press for members who can do so to enjoy our wonderful classes with friends instead of their computer.

I stopped making resolutions many years ago because I found that I never follow them. However, I do like to think back over the year and pick three positive and three negative events that I believe had the greatest impact on our country. For the negative, I picked: (1) the war in in Ukraine, (2) the Dobbs decision, and (3) the attempted insurrection/coup at the US Capitol. For the positive events, I picked: (1) the January 6th Commission, (2) COVID vaccines and Paxlovid prevent most COVID deaths, and (3) finally, publication of Trump’s tax returns tells us more about the IRS than Trump. What are your threes? I challenge members to send your threes to [email protected] so we can publish what you select.

Again, Happy New Year!   

Washington, DC: The Nation's Theater Capital?

  

By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers' Group Coordinator 



"While the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theatre are known to many, look a little deeper at DC's theater community and you will find an abundance of creativity. Are you a fan of commedia dell'arte? DC has a theater for that. Nerd culture? DC's got that, too. Whatever gets your creative juices flowing, chances are there are artists in the region exploring it through theater," according to Nicole Hertvik, editor and publisher of DC Theater Arts. This publication is the region's most comprehensive source of local theater news, which covers the Delaware/Maryland/Virginia area, Baltimore, and New York City.

Nicole goes on to say, “Washington, D.C. is known as the nation's political capital, but fewer people are aware that it is also a theater capital. With over 70 professional theaters and dozens of community theaters, a robust economy, and residents who support the arts, the DC region is one of the nation's most vibrant theater communities.”

All OLLI members are invited to join Nicole on Friday, January 27, 2023, from 1:00 to 2:30, when she speaks with OLLI's Theater Lovers' Group via Zoom. You will find the link for the Theater Lovers' Group listed in OLLI's daily schedule email. Join fellow theater lovers from the comfort of your home to learn more about the local theater scene, what DC theaters do right, and why the region should be considered a national theater arts model. You will also learn more about DC Theater Arts online newsletter and can ask Nicole about what's new on Broadway, too.

Nicole is a contributing writer to DC Theater Arts, DCist, District Fray Magazine, American Theatre Magazine, and more. She holds a B.A. in English from the University of Cincinnati, and a master's degree in International Affairs from Columbia University. Nicole studied journalism at Georgetown University, was a 2019 Fellow in the Eugene O'Neill Theatre Center's National Critics Institute, and a 2022 Fellow in the CUNY Newmark Journalism School's Entrepreneurial Journalism program. Prior to her work at DC Theater Arts, she had a career in international education. She lives in Maryland with her three daughters, two bunnies, and one very patient husband.

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OLLI Walk & Talk Club Report


OLLI Walk & Talk at Burke Lake Park


 
By Bob Heyer, OLLI Walk & Talk Co-Chair


The OLLI Walk & Talk Club ventured out to Burke Lake Park on January 3 for our first walk of the new year. It was a lovely winter day, with sun peeks and a high temperature that hit 70 in the afternoon. The lake was down two feet in water level, so repairs and improvements to the park could be made over the winter months. We saw lake bottom silt in many areas around the land edges. And yet a week earlier, just after Christmas, people were ice skating on the lake in some areas.

We walked some new paths along the water’s edge, which members who have lived in Fairfax County for 40 years had never walked before. We also covered many picnic areas, volleyball, and disc golf areas, and the Burke village with the mini-golf course, ice cream parlor, merry-go-round, pavilions, and railroad station. We couldn’t resist taking time out to climb one of the kids’ jungle gyms for pictures and ride the slide down! And later at the railroad station was another picture opportunity before walking back through the Burke Lake disc golf course to the cars.

Next was to visit the Burke Center Chesapeake Bagel Bakery for munchies, coffee, and continued conversations. We had a successful day and welcomed a new club walker to the group.








Upcoming OLLI Walk & Talk Outings

 

By Marilyn Harriman, OLLI Walk & Talk Co-Chair

 

Weather permitting, the OLLI Walk & Talk Club will meet two more times this month: Wednesday, January 18, at 2:00 (please note afternoon time) at King Arthur Road in Annandale and Monday, January 24, at 9:00 at Fred Crabtree Park Trail in Herndon.

On Wednesday, January 18, Debby Mossburg will guide club members in exploring 60 minutes more of the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail. We will meet on King Arthur Road, at 2:00. The easiest way to reach King Arthur Road is from the Little River Turnpike.

On Little River Turnpike, there is a stoplight at Duncan Drive. Make an immediate left after turning north, follow the service road one block, and make a right onto King Arthur. Parking is available on both sides of the street. A visual map of where to park will be sent to those who sign up for this walk.

Afterward, those who would like a hot beverage and continued conversation will meet at Breeze Bakery Café, 4125 Hummer Road, Annandale.

On Monday, January 23, leader Carol Esteki will show us the 2.4 miles of the Fred Crabtree Park Trail in Herndon. Those who sign up will start at 9:00. Parking is available at the site: 2801 Fox Mill Road, Herndon. Afterward, those who would like a hot beverage and continued conversation will meet at Le (Vingt Trois) 23 Cafe, 311 Sunset Park Drive, Herndon.

Walkers are asked to sign up for each walk with one of the club co-chairs, Marilyn or Bob. New walkers are always welcome and must register first with the club through the OLLI member portal.

ALL walkers are asked to bring their cell phones with them on the outings and let the co-chairs know if they are running late or have a change in plans while on the trail.

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Computer Club

3rd Saturday, January 21 Via Zoom
Electric Vehicles: Concepts and Comparisons
Learn in 30: Bluetooth and Pairing

 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, January 21, via Zoom. Program activities begin at 1:00; the Zoom session usually opens at 12:45.

Electric Vehicles: Concepts and Comparisons – Presented by Geof Goodrum

Major automakers are playing catch-up with Tesla Inc. in the manufacture and marketing of electric vehicles (EVs). This presentation will review basic EV concepts and terminology, some differences between Tesla and non-Tesla EVs, near and long-term EV considerations, and a demonstration of useful mobile apps for EV drivers. There will also be an opportunity for open discussion and questions.

Geof Goodrum is a retired physical earth scientist, technology enthusiast and early adopter. Geof’s vehicle history includes a 2002 Honda Insight (1st Generation Gas-Electric Hybrid) and a 2019 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). He recently completed road trips in his 2022 Kia EV6 Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) on the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive, and cross-country trips.

Learn in 30: Bluetooth and Pairing – Presented by John Krout

This presentation provides you with the fundamental knowledge to use your smart phone or tablet together with Bluetooth devices. You will find answers to questions such as these: Why is Bluetooth useful? What does pairing accomplish? Step-by-step examples of pairing using both an Android phone and an iPhone are included. If Bluetooth is a mystery to you, you will be enlightened by this presentation.

John Krout is a frequent presenter at our meetings on a wide range of computer, technology, and photography topics, and author of many articles for the PATACS Posts newsletter.

See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 for 2023—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45, please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 085407 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 860 4783 3447 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method) or dial in – 301-715-8592.

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Reston Book Club


By Karen Schneider and Joann Sokol,
Reston Book Club Coordinators

The Reston Book Club will meet via Zoom 2:15-3:40 on Thursday, January 26. The winter 2023 book choice is Hotel Du Lac by Anita Brookner, the 1984 Booker Prize winner.

In this novel, which not only won Brookner the Booker Prize but established her international reputation, she tells the story of Edith Hope, who writes romance novels under a pseudonym. After jilting someone at the altar in London, she goes on a sabbatical to a Swiss hotel to take stock of her life and do some writing. Instead, she ends up absorbed in the lives of her fellow guests and attracts an unwanted suitor. The choice before Edith is either safety or passion; and it is unclear which path she will chose until the very end. The discussion will be led by Luci Martel.

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Tallwood Book Club


 

By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator


The Tallwood Book Club meets on the second Friday of every month (e.g., today) at 2:30. For winter term, the meetings are via Zoom; the Zoom link appears in the daily schedule email. The January book to be discussed is The Lying Life of Adults by Elena Ferrante.

Our February selection is The Children Act by Ian McEwan.

WANTED: Poetry and Prose for OLLI Ink 2023

 

By Caroline McNeil, OLLI Ink Editor
 

OLLI writers—beginners and experienced—take note: OLLI Ink is now accepting submissions, including poems, fiction, personal essays, and memoirs, for its 2023 edition.

Now moving into its 13th year, OLLI Ink is a well-established publication whose contributors come from a wide spectrum of OLLI members, including, but not limited to, those enrolled in writing workshops.

How to Submit: Please send your entries and/or any questions to Caroline McNeil at [email protected].

Guidelines:
  • Poems – limit number of lines to 30
  • Prose – limit number of words to 2,500, single-spaced.
Contributions are welcome starting now through the end of February.
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Goodbye Aragorn

A six-month-old gray tiger-stripe
named Rascal. Adopted, but returned.
We vowed to never send you back.

Daddy chauffeured you home.
You chewed through your cardboard carrier,
played jungle gym in a moving car.

We gave you a name better suited to
your adventurous spirit, as you
discovered the touch on-touch off lamp
on the dresser at 3 a.m.
Always seeking the highest spot,
hiding in silk plants atop kitchen cabinets.

When your precious Daddy-pal passed on,
you assumed his male role to comfort me.
Snuggled your palm-sized head
In my hair to warm your cold wet nose,
bathed my ears with sandpaper tongue.

My best buddy, my loyal listener,
a watcher of squirrels, conqueror of dust balls,
slayer of insects, inspector of closed doors,
master of 8 p.m. bedtimes, daylight or standard.
Strict boss of house staff, grading my duty list –
litter scooped, meals served, water refreshed,
allotted number of night and morning treats.

And now you too are gone.

I miss your cuddles, your multi-syllabic meows.
With any noise I rush to see what you’re into.
Your forlorn look when I leave for a while,
your metronomic purring in my ear at my return.

I miss stroking your neck, scratching your ears,
brushing your fur, your many contorted
sleep positions, your soft, cream-colored belly,
our affectionate head-butts
at the top of the stairs.

Most of all
I miss being yours.
                                    Margie Wildblood

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Obituary: Judith H. Baxter

Judy Baxter, OLLI member since 2007, passed away on December 31, 2022. A memorial service will be held January 13 at 1:00, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax, located at 2709 Hunter Mill Road in Oakton.

The service will also be live-streamed on the church’s webpage: https://uucf.org.

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, January 13 through January 31


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer

 

For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468, buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below), or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket page or the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.

Current vaccination policy for the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center is summarized as follows:

Audience members are not currently required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result for most events, except when required by the event organizer or artist. If proof of vaccination or a negative COVID19 test result is required for a specific event, it will be indicated on the web page with event details.

Specific requirements are detailed and any future policy changes may be found here: https://cfa.gmu.edu/plan-your-visit/vaccination-policy.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues
 

US Navy Concert Band
Fri, Jan 13, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Free and open to the public, no tickets required.

US Navy Concert Band Commodores Jazz Ensemble
Sat, Jan 14, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Free and open to the public, no tickets required.

Shen Yun
Sat, Jan 21, 2:00 and 7:30
Sun, Jan 22, 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $200, $175, $140, $115, $100, $90.

Melina's Dance Company: Time Warp Winter Showcase
Thu, Jan 26, 6:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.

The Acting Company: The Three Musketeers
Sat, Jan 28, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $50, $43, $30.

Silkroad Ensemble: Uplifted Voices
Sun, Jan 29, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain. The artists will participate in a post-performance discussion from the stage.
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

No performances scheduled
 
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

11th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Student Exhibition
Through Feb 18
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

ARTFactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: Big Fish
Sat, Jan 28, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Jan 29, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 Adult, $16 senior.

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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: For winter term 2023, OLLI clubs and scheduled activities are meeting online. Accordingly, the course or event numbers for such events and activities (except clubs) meeting only online show the identification "Z" (for Zoom). You may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Jan 14 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Jan 16
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Reading Club
Tue Jan 17
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 1:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Zoom Information Session for members
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Jan 18
 		 10:00 am
10:30 am		 Mah Jongg Club
Investment Forum
Thu Jan 19
 		 11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Jan 20
 
 
 		  9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
 1:00 pm		 Craft and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Homer, etc.
Program Planning Groups
Sat Jan 21
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Jan 23  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Jan 24  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Jan 25
 
 
 		  1:45 pm
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Spanish Club
Memoir and More Writing Group
Mah Jongg Club
Theater Lovers’ Group
Thu Jan 26
 		  4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Jan 27
 
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon		 Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Photography Club
Sat Jan 28 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Jane Hassell

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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ENews December 30, 2022

by

OLLI E-News December 30, 2022 Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Mark Rozell, Dean of Mason’s Schar School of Policy and Government, Visited OLLI on September 30 to Address Virginia Politics, the Youngkin Administration, and the New South

December 30, 2022


Editor of the Week: Sheri Siesseger 
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • The Tallwood offices are currently closed and will reopen Monday, January 2.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, January 13; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, January 10, at 6:00.

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Lifetime OLLI Membership for Fairfax City Mayor
From the Desk of the Executive Director


By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director


On December 13, it was my pleasure to award lifetime OLLI membership to David L. Meyer, mayor of Fairfax, for his steadfast support of OLLI and its collaboration with the city of Fairfax.


 















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Teach at OLLI Mason Summer 2023

By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Chair
 

As you relax during this holiday season why not consider teaching at OLLI during the upcoming summer 2023 session? If you have been thinking of sharing your expertise, you can start by teaching a single-session course during the summer and then progress to a multi-session course if you wish. Those who have presented classes at OLLI have commented on the value of the experience and the thoughtful questions of OLLI members. Our in-person, hybrid, and virtual-only classes will all be in effect in the spring 2023 session. The Humanities and Social Sciences cover a range of topics including psychology, philosophy, literature, culture, political science, geography, and law. Current events are always popular topics as well.
 
We would love to hear from you. To obtain a course proposal form, click on this link.  Submissions to the OLLI Program Associates are due:
  • January 17 for the summer 2023 session
  • April 10 for the fall 2023 session.
For a multi-session class, submit your proposal to Shannon Morrow at [email protected]. For a single-session class, submit your proposal to Nancy Klein at [email protected].
 
We are looking forward to seeing your name in the OLLI catalog as a presenter!
 
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in the December 9 issue of OLLI E-News. It is repeated here at the author’s request to encourage member participation in OLLI program development.

A County Program to Combat Social Isolation Among Older and Disabled Adults, and a Volunteer Opportunity

By Yashoda Premysler, CARE Mobile Program Manager

On August 1, 2022, ServiceSource launched CARE (Community Access to Resources and Engagement) Mobile, a program to reduce social isolation among older adults and adults with disabilities and to improve community and social connections. ServiceSource is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to facilitate services, resources, and partnerships to support older adults and adults with disabilities, families, their caregivers, and community members, to build more inclusive communities.

CARE Mobile is a 100% mobile program based on a public-private partnership model which provides free, roving, on-site, outdoor health and wellness programming; engaging community activities; and entertainment for older adults (age 50+) and adults with disabilities. Local community resources and consultation are also available to connect individuals to organizations for support. This program helps eliminate transportation and technological barriers by going directly to neighborhoods identified by Fairfax County’s One Fairfax initiative. Areas include Mount Vernon, Springfield, Bailey’s Crossroads, Annandale, Falls Church, Herndon, and Chantilly. Events are held outside when the weather permits.

Services include wellness checks such as:

  • screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, vision and hearing;
  • vaccine clinics such as flu and COVID boosters;
  • activities such as expressive music, dance, Tai-chi, yoga, creative arts, and crafts; and
  • entertainment, such as bingo, movies, games, and karaoke.       

Other services, activities, entertainment, and educational programming are available upon request. Click here to see our website for additional information and to request CARE Mobile in your neighborhood!

We also welcome volunteers to provide or assist with any of the activities above or to contribute additional ideas. Thank you.

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Gorgeous
 
On a breezy October morning
I tramp through familiar woods
entranced by hundreds of brilliantly colored leaves
sailing, drifting, and spinning through the freshly washed sky,
before sifting softly to the ground.
 
I hike the trail around the pond;
the surrounding area is so blanketed with leaves,
I can't tell where land ends and water begins.
I spot an unusual leaf, so perfectly shaped
and intensely yellow that I want to touch it,
but it's several feet away from the path.
 
Time was when I would wander without hesitation,
through uncharted territory covered thickly with leaves
that hide dangers like roots, rocks, or tangled branches,
dangers that could send me flying.
 
I'm a risk manager now.
I tell myself that one gorgeous leaf
isn't worth a trip to the emergency room.
 
I feel a drop; it's starting to rain.
I turn my face to the sky and stick my tongue out,
then pop open my bright yellow umbrella and give it a twirl,
just like the ingenue in an old movie.
 
I head home stepping carefully along the wet trail
singing out loud. I remember the words.
 
                                                 Sandy Myles
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, December 30 through January 16


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


Current vaccination policy for the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center is summarized as follows:

Audience members are not currently required to show proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test result for most events except when required by the event organizer or artist. If proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for a specific event, it will be indicated on the webpage with event details.

Specific requirements are detailed and any future policy changes may be found here: https://cfa.gmu.edu/plan-your-visit/vaccination-policy.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

U.S. Navy Concert Band
Fri, Jan 13, 8:00
Center for the Arts Concert Hall
Admission: Free and open to the public, no tickets required.

U.S. Navy Band Commodores with special guest Melissa Aldana
Sat, Jan 14, 8:00
Center for the Arts Concert Hall
Admission: Free and open to the public, no tickets required.
 
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

No performances scheduled.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit: Elizabeth Hall: Viriditas
Through Jan 8
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

11th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Student Exhibition
Jan 10 – Feb 18
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

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

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Meetings & Clubs

Please note: For winter term 2023, OLLI clubs and scheduled activities are meeting online. Accordingly, the course or event numbers for such events and activities (except clubs) meeting only online show the identification "Z" (for Zoom). You may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Dec 31 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Jan 2
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Reading Club
Tue Jan 3
 
 
 		  9:00 am
 9:30 am
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Walk & Talk
Annex Art
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Jan 4
 		 10:00 am
10:30 am		 Mah Jongg Club
Investment Forum
Thu Jan 5
 		 11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Jan 6
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Sat Jan 7 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Jan 9
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Writing Club
Tue Jan 10
 		  9:30 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Jan 11
 
 
 		 10:00 am
10:30 am
 2:00 pm
 6:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Jan 12
 
 		 10:00 am
11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 Walk & Talk
All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Jan 13
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Jan 14 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Jane Hassell

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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ENews December 09, 2022

by

OLLI E-News December 9, 2022
Print a condensed pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
OLLI Holiday Party – a Social Occasion, December 1, Country Club of Fairfax

December 9, 2022


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • There will be a meeting of the OLLI Personal Computer User Group (OPCUG) on Saturday, December 10 (tomorrow), at 1:00 via Zoom and in person in TA-1 at Tallwood; more information at this link.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, December 30 (skipping two weeks); the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, December 27, at 6:00.

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OLLI Walk & Talk at Lake Mercer
 

By Marilyn Harriman and Bob Heyer, OLLI Walk & Talk
Co-Chairs


On Tuesday, November 22, the OLLI Walk & Talk Club met at South Run Park and walked the trail around Lake Mercer. The path on the south side hilly trail was covered with fallen leaves as it led through a long passage of beautiful tall trees and some undergrowth for small critters and birds in the forest. Approaching the lake, we looked down and saw three deer in the shallow end of the lake. There were also half a dozen mallard ducks on the lake.

Lake Mercer was created by cutting many trees down and building a 30-foot-high dam as the creek was flowing to the Occoquan River. As we walked down to a lower level, we found cranes, a pair of eagles, and other water birds perched on stumps in the water. Walking a bit further, we saw more than a dozen seagulls resting on the lake. Climbing back upward to the dam height, we found a beautiful grass runoff plain. The dam is about a quarter mile long and led to the other side trail which is actually in Springfield, with the riverbank on one side and the back of townhomes on the other side. At the beginning of the lake is a low area where lots of croaking frogs rest during the summertime

We arrived back at the cars in South Run Park after trekking 4.2 miles. We then headed out to the Chesapeake Bagel Factory in Burke Center for conversations and great bagel nourishments. Consensus was that this was one of the best and most rewarding Fairfax County Park walks.

The club’s final walk for 2022 will be Monday, December 12, in Vienna at 9:00. Walkers will meet at the Vienna Community Center Parking lot, 120 Cherry Street SE. Afterward, we’ll have an optional meet-up at Caffe Amouri (parking lot behind cafe), 107 Church Street NE, Vienna. If you’d like to walk December 12 and haven't signed up for the club, please register. In addition, please contact one of the cochairs ([email protected]; [email protected]), so we’ll know to look for you on Monday.

Walks will resume in January. Schedules and locations will be sent out through the OLLI Walk & Talk Club member portal.

Are you interested in getting fresh air, conversation, and exercise this winter? If yes, sign up through the registration portal: type in OLLI Walk Talk Club to register. We’d love to have you join us.
Teach at OLLI Mason Summer 2023


By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Chair


As you relax during the upcoming holiday season why not consider teaching at OLLI during the upcoming summer 2023 session? If you have been thinking of sharing your area(s) of expertise, you can start by teaching a single class during the summer and then progressing to a multi-class course if you so desire. Those who have presented classes at OLLI have commented on the value of the experience and the thoughtful questions of OLLI members. Our in-person, “hybrid,” and virtual-only classes will all be in effect in the spring 2023 session. The Humanities and Social Sciences cover a range of topics including psychology, philosophy, literature, culture, political science, geography, and law. Current Events is always a popular topic as well.

We would love to hear from you. To obtain a course proposal form, click on this link.

Submissions to the OLLI Program Associates are due:
  • January 17 for the summer 2023 session
  • April 10 for the fall 2023 session.

For a multi-session class, submit your proposal to Shannon Morrow at [email protected]. For a single-session class, submit your proposal to Nancy Klein at [email protected].

Looking forward to seeing your name in the OLLI catalog as a presenter!
Winter Is Coming


By Michele Romano, Health Advisory Work Group Chair



December has arrived with all those nasty winter viruses: flu, RSV (primarily in children), colds, and, of course, more COVID19 Omicron variants. This happens every year.

So far, the variants are following a typical pattern: more contagious but less severe illness. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines severe COVID illness as hospitalization or death. So far, the vast majority of people are just getting symptoms of the common cold. As is common with infectious diseases, the people that die are the most vulnerable: the very young and the elderly who already have underlying conditions that weaken the immune system.

The CDC predicts that the flu season may be worse this year—we haven’t really had a flu season in over two years. Therefore, our immunity to the flu is lower because it has not been challenged.

So, what should you do? Live your lives, but be smart about it. The CDC is placing the emphasis on personal responsibility. Wash your hands…a lot. Carry hand sanitizer and a good mask (N95 or KN95) with you. Wear a mask if you feel more comfortable or are in a high-risk environment (e.g., public transportation). Stay home if you don’t feel well, test, and check with your provider. Get your ‘CoFlu’ (COVID bivalent booster and high dose flu) vaccines. You can get them both at the same time. Do. It. Now. It takes two weeks to build up immunity. It’s not too late. The flu season usually lasts from December until early March.

Keep in mind that COVID boosters do not prevent COVID19. They are meant to prevent you from getting seriously ill or dying. You don’t want to be sick and have to isolate over the holidays because you didn’t take a few simple steps.

But there is good news. Hospitalizations and deaths linked to COVID19 in Fairfax County are still very low because we take care of ourselves and others. Give your friends and family the greatest gift of all this season – the gift of health. Happy Holidays. We’ll see you in person in the spring.
OLLI Weekly Conversations Continue -
December 14
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch,
Co-Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations Series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate a Zoom discussion on December 14 at 4:00. Our chosen topic this week is Elon Musk.

 

December 14: What do you think of Musk? Genius? Villain? Everyone seems to have an opinion. Will he be successful sorting out Twitter? Join us and share your thoughts.

 

The Weekly Conversation Series will take a break between December 15 – mid‑January. See you in January.

 

Check your Daily Schedule for the Zoom link on Wednesdays and plan on some social time with Team Bloch.
Tallwood Book Club


By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator



The Tallwood Book Club will meet on Friday, December 9, at 2:30, via Zoom. The club will discuss My Antonia by Willa Cather. The Zoom link will appear in the emailed OLLI Daily Schedule.
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Miracle Tree

There were other miracles in the yard
But none so self-confident as
the gnarled old crabapple tree in spring

Canopied with pink-tinged white blossoms
Gradually growing into small sour ill-shaped apples
Peeled, quartered, cooked in a summer-hot kitchen
to become delicious jelly for winter toast.

Who then wouldn’t believe fairies lived among the blossoms?
                      
                                        Betty Smith

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, December 9 through January 12


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468, buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below), or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket page or the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.

Current vaccination policy for the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center is summarized as follows:
Audience members are not currently required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID19 test result for most events, except when required by the event organizer or artist. If proof of vaccination or a negative COVID19 test result is required for a specific event, it will be indicated on the web page with event details.
Specific requirements are detailed and any future policy changes may be found here: https://cfa.gmu.edu/plan-your-visit/vaccination-policy.

Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just 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. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.  
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Vienna Boys Choir
Fri, Dec 9, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $55, $47, $33.

American Festival Pops Orchestra
Sat, Dec 10, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, on the third level of the Center for the Arts lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $60, $51, $36.

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker
Sat, Dec 17 at 4:00
Sun, Dec 18 at 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $89, $69, $49.
 
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

No performances scheduled
 
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit: Elizabeth Hall: Viriditas
Through Jan 8
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

American Festival Pops Orchestra
Fri, Dec 9, 8:00
Merchant Hall
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Admission: $60, $51, $36.

Prince William Little Theatre: The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge
Fri, Dec 9, 8:00
Sat, Dec 10, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Dec 11, 2:00
Fri, Dec 16, 8:00
Sat, Dec 17, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Dec 18, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: Adult $20, senior $17.

Manassas Symphony Orchestra Family Concert: Explorations
Sat, Dec 10, 3:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $25.

A Celtic Christmas with Seán Heely
Sun, Dec 11, 4:00
Merchant Hall
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Admission: $46, $39, $28.

Manassas Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker
Fri, Dec 16 at 7:30
Sat, Dec 17 at 3:00 and 7:30
Sun – Fri, Dec 18 – 23 at 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $75, $65, $55, $45, $35.

Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra: Messiah Sing-A-Long
Sat, Dec 17 at 8:00
Sold Out

 

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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: Although some physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled, some may be meeting in person or, in a hybrid mode, both in person and online. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Dec 10
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Dec 12
 
 		  9:00 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am		 Walk and Talk
What’s in the Daily News
Poetry Writing Club
Tue Dec 13
 		  9:30 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Dec 14
 
 
 
 
 		 10:00 am
10:30 am
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 6:00 pm		 Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Mah Jongg Club
Conversations with Brenda and Doris
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Dec 15
 
 		 10:00 am
11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 P5 Program Committee Meeting
All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Dec 16
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Sat Dec 17 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Dec 19
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Reading Club
Tue Dec 20
 
 		  9:30 am
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Dec 21  4:00 pm Conversations with Brenda and Doris
Thu Dec 22
 		 11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Dec 23
 		  9:15 am
11:00 am		 Recorder Consort
Homer, etc.
Sat Dec 24 10:30 am Tai Chi Club

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About OLLI E-News

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

Editorial Staff
Chief Editor: Paul Van Hemel
Associate Editor: David Gundry
Weekly Editor Team: David Gundry, John Nash, Sheri Siesseger, Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Jane Hassell

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected].
Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:olli.gmu.edu/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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AT GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

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