Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

E-News-April-22-2022

by

OLLI E-News April 22, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Board of Directors Meeting, April 15
(see summary article below)

April 22, 2022


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

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

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Summary of April Board of Directors Meeting




 By Rita Way, Secretary
 

The regular meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually April 15.
 
OLLI President Paul Howard thanked the outgoing members of the Board along with the executive committee for their service and dedication to OLLI.
 
Executive Director Jennifer Disano reported that the spring term has been going well. Members have been able either to attend classes or take them by Zoom. She thanked Paul Howard, his technical team, and the staff for their long hours of hard work to make this possible. There were some in-person classes that had to be converted to virtual because the attendance levels were low. It will be important for the future to evaluate how members want to take classes—in person or on Zoom.
 
Currently the total membership is 1105 (Annual, Introductory, and Lifetime).
 
Three resolutions were approved by the Board:
 
Resolution 220415-01, Resolved, The OLLI Board of Directors approves the winter ’23 academic program for OLLI shall be held as a ‘Zoom–only’ term.
 
Resolution 220415-02, Resolved, The OLLI Board of Directors approves a special discount for George Mason University retirees. Retirees who have not previously had an OLLI membership would receive a onetime voucher of $150 toward the purchase of an annual membership. Past, present, and future retirees would be eligible for the voucher.
 
Resolution 220415-03, Resolved, The OLLI Board of Directors approves the Strategic Plan.

OLLI Board of Directors Election Voting Starts in Two Weeks

 

 Bob Heyer, Board Member and Election Committee Chair
 
 
The Board of Directors election is coming! Voting starts May 6 in the election for five vacant positions on the OLLI Board for the next three years. Below are the candidates for the positions.
Go to the OLLI website at olli.gmu.edu, then click on Board of Directors Candidates to read the bios of the candidates. On Friday, May 6, the candidates will be at the ZOOM OLLI annual membership meeting at 10:00. They will introduce themselves and take questions. The election will begin at noon on May 6.

If you need more information, please contact our OLLI Election Committee Chairman, Bob Heyer ([email protected]) for details.

 
  

An Insider’s Take on NextStop Theatre



 By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator
 

Join Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) on Wednesday, April 27 for an insider's take on NextStop Theatre. According to NextStop Theatre's director of development Tomoko Azuma, "The finished product that the audience sees, in my opinion, is just the tip of the iceberg. All the creation that goes before the performance is what I find so interesting since, it's where the art gets created and shaped."
 
Azuma goes on to say, "It's the behind-the-scenes process that brings great theater to life. It's the many decisions and details that are discussed and worked out in rehearsals prior to the production that are fascinating."
 
NextStop Theatre, located at 269 Sunset Park Drive in Herndon, Virginia, was founded in 1988 as the Elden Street Players, an all-volunteer, 114 seat, black-box theater. It soon began playing to standing-room only audiences. On January 1, 2013, Evan Hoffman was named Producing Artistic Director. A talented visionary (and Herndon native), Hoffman has developed NextStop into one of the leading professional theater companies in our region, producing between six and eight shows a year.
 
On Wednesday, April 27, from 4:00 to 5:30, during our virtual TLG meeting, Azuma will give us an inside look at what it takes to produce shows, keep the footlights on, develop an audience, and much more. All OLLI members are invited to join TLG members to meet Azuma and learn about NextStop Theatre and what makes it a stellar representative in the local arts community.
 
From Friday, April 29, to Sunday, May 1, at 7:00, you can enjoy NextStop's special free event, Theater in the Park, when NextStop gives a free, open-air performance of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream in the Reston Town Square Park. For more information, go to www.nextstoptheatre.org.

Mason Jazz Concerts April 25-30




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


The next week offers a feast of great Mason jazz concerts—see below. Mark your calendars!
 
MASON JAZZ VOCAL NIGHT 
Monday, April 25, 8:00 
Center for the Arts
Purchase Tickets:  https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/mason-jazz-vocal-night-2022/.
Join Dr. Darden Purcell, the Mason Jazz Voice Studio, and Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble for an evening of swinging standards and classic hits from the Great American Songbook! With special guests, Forest Park High School Platinum Vocal Jazz, directed by Lara Brittain.
 
LATIN AMERICAN ENSEMBLE LIVE at BLUES ALLEY (Two Shows)
Tuesday, April 26, 8:00 and 10:00 
Blues Alley 
1073 Wisconsin Ave, Washington DC 20007 
https://www.bluesalley.com/
Tickets for 8:00 Show: 8:00 link
Tickets for 10:00 Show: 10:00 link
The Three-time Down Beat Award-winning Mason Latin American Ensemble, directed by Dr. Juan Megna will share the stage with the NOVA Big Band, directed by Mason alumnus Shannon Gunn at Washington DC's historic Jazz club, Blues Alley! (Photo by Joyce Boghosian) 
 
THE JAZZ WORKSHOP
Wednesday, April 27, 8:00 
De Laski Performing Arts Building, 3001 
Free and open to the public. 
Join the Mason Jazz Workshop, directed by John Kocur, in their spring concert! The Jazz Workshop explores the intersection of improvisation and composition in an atypical jazz ensemble, performing the music of Charles Mingus, Horace Silver, Billie Holiday, John Coltrane and more!
 
INTERNATIONAL JAZZ DAY 
Saturday, April 30, 8:00 
Center for the Arts 
Purchase Tickets:  https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/international-jazz-day-concert/ 
Share the vibrancy and vitality of jazz music with Mason Jazz students and faculty on April 30! International Jazz Day brings together communities, schools, artists, historians, academics, and jazz enthusiasts on all continents to celebrate and learn about jazz and its roots, future, and impact. Featured groups will be the Mason Jazz Ensemble, Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble, Latin American Ensemble, District PANTET and the Braddock Road Brass Band!



 
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Safari Sightings
 
A pride of lions
females and adolescents
dream of warthog lunch.
 
Cheetah boys lounging
high atop a termite mound
snoozing in the sun.
 
Leopard lithely leaps
up the gnarly baobab,
roars. Hornbills quiet.
 
Small yellow wildcat
crouches in the tall grasses
eyes shining, ears perked.
                     
Carolyn F. Wyatt

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances April 22 through May 2


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:

Proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test result will be needed through May 1. Beginning May 2, audience members will not be 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. Face coverings continue to be required at all events. 

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 send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra with Simone Dinnerstein
Sat, Apr 23, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $65, $55, $40.

Lila Downs
Sun, Apr 24, 7:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

Mason Jazz Vocal Night
Mon, Apr 25, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12, $8 seniors, $5 students.

Mason Wind Symphony Concert
Thu, Apr 28, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12, $8 seniors, $5 students.

Mason Opera presents Rossini's La Cenerentola
Fri, Apr 29, 8:00
Sat, Apr 30, 2:00
Sun, May 1, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20, $15 seniors, $5 students.

International Jazz Day Concert
Sat, Apr 30, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12, $8 seniors, $5 students.

Guitar Ensemble Concert
Sat, April 30, 7:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, 3001
Admission: Free.
 
Mason School of Theater: Just Like Us
Sun, May 1, 2:00   
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, Theater Space 
Select scenes and a post-show panel discussion via Zoom. Register at https://app.e2ma.net/app2/audience/signup/1967719/1912540/ 
(Additional performances and discussions shown in the CFA calendar at https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/just-like-us/.)

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit by Jayne Matricardi: Motherscape
Continues to May 22
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

US Army Field Band Concert
Fri, Apr 22, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: Free, tickets required. 

Hylton Center 12th Anniversary Gala
Fri, Apr 29, 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $300 (includes dinner on Fri and concert on Sat).

Leslie Odom, Jr.
Sat, Apr 30, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $100, $75, $60.

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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. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates; also, check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for event information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Apr 23 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Apr 26  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 27
 
 
 		  1:45 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Bridge Club
Mah Jongg Club
Spanish Club
Theater Lovers’ Group
Thu Apr 28  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Apr 29
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Apr 30 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue May 3  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed May 4
 
 
 		  1:30 pm
 1:45 pm
 4:00 pm
 6:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Bridge Club
History Club
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu May 5  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri May 6 10:00 am Virtual Annual Business Meeting
Sat May 7 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
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

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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E-News-April-15-2022

by

OLLI E-News April 15, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Wayne Gunther of the Northern Virginia Photography Society (NVPS) Shared Skills and Photos at April 8 Photography Club Hybrid Meeting

April 15, 2022


Editor of the Week: Sheri Siesseger 
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Reminder: Jazz concert—Maria Schneider with the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, Saturday, April 16, 8:00, Center for the Arts.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, April 22; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, April 19, at 6:00.

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Welcome Back


By Kathryn Russell, Program Committee Co-chair


For two years now, we’ve become accustomed to Zoom classes. We’ve learned to appreciate all their advantages, especially the chance to continue with OLLI program in spite of Covid restrictions. As always, OLLI programmers have done a fabulous job of providing a wide array of courses.

But now we can return to real classrooms and actual in-person courses. Once again, we see familiar faces, recognizable even despite masks. And no more annoying health form to fill out each time we come to campus. It is wonderful to chat with friends and greet students who are new to OLLI. I spoke with a member who was delighted to come to the campus for the first time, though she had joined OLLI over a year ago.

Coming back in person is a joyful experience. In the first two weeks, I’ve had the chance to attend a literature class with one of our favorite Mason professors and to have actual discussions. Amazing; that hasn’t happened in two years. In the Music Sampler class, also a favorite of OLLI students, I’ve heard a live concert and also had a class learning how to play the ukulele—a real one in my hands. What fun!

If you haven’t yet taken the opportunity to return to the classroom, you may discover some challenges. You’ll probably have to search for real shoes, as fuzzy slippers probably will not match the outfit you found in the back of your closet. You may discover a wardrobe you haven’t worn in a couple of years. Will you remember the route to campus, or will you take a wrong turn once or twice? Better allow a little extra time.

But you’ll be glad you made the effort. Have a look at in-person classes coming up. It’s easy to sign up online for additional courses. And in-person courses are easy to find—just look for those without a “Z” in the course number. Check the weekly Communicator for the list of cancelled or rescheduled classes. Then join us for a real classroom experience. Pure joy!

OLLI Board of Directors Election Voting Starts in Three Weeks



Bob Heyer, Board Member and Election Committee Chair



Voting starts May 6 in the election for five positions on the OLLI Board for the next three years. Here are the candidates for the Board.



To read the bios of the candidates, go to the OLLI website at olli.gmu.edu, then click on Board of Directors Candidates. On Friday, May 6, the candidates will be at the Zoom OLLI annual membership meeting at 10:00. They will introduce themselves and take questions. The election will begin at noon on May 6.

If you need more information, please contact our OLLI Election Committee Chairman, Bob Heyer ([email protected]) for details.

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Reston Book Club Meeting
  By Nancy Scheeler and Luci Martel, Reston Book Club Coordinators
The Reston Book Club will meet on Thursday, April 21, at 4:00, via Zoom. The selection will be: The Promise by Damon Galgut, winner of the 2022 Booker Prize.
 
The Promise is a menacing and funny portrait of present-day descendants of Dutch settlers who are desperately holding onto their farm and status in post-apartheid South Africa. The novel explores inheritance, legacy, colonialism, apartheid, and questions about who belongs.
 
The ultimate question that the novel pursues is: “Is justice—true justice—possible in this world; if so then what might it look like?”  
Mason Jazz Concert April 20
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A, Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
Among the great Mason jazz concerts coming up in April is the following one (with two shows) next week. Mark your calendars!
Darden Purcell & Shawn Purcell LIVE at BLUES ALLEY
Wednesday, April 20, 8:00 and 10:00 shows 
Blues Alley
1073 Wisconsin Ave, Washington DC 20007 
https://www.bluesalley.com/
 
Tickets for 8:00 show: https://www.instantseats.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.event&eventID=55A757CE-F47B-1C21-CB0561B87D01FA16
Tickets for 10:00 show:
https://www.instantseats.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.event&eventid=55A75891-FE3E-493C-E28BF0C12A516F11
 
Darden Purcell and Shawn Purcell return LIVE to Blues Alley for their first show in two years at Washington DC's most historic jazz club, Blues Alley. Joining them will be Eric Harper (bass), Kevin McDonald (drums), and special guests from Mason jazz studies! 
 
Photo of the Month
The April 2022 Photo of the Month theme was Macro/Close-Up. We selected Susan Van Hemel's photo "Tiger on Zinnia" 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
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
 
In Our Time
 
We had our heroes
                       And heroines to be sure
Bob Dylan
Leonard Cohen
                       Joni Mitchell
                       Judy Collins
James Taylor
Paul Simon
Neil Young
 
On and on
They gave us our songs
                              At some cost
Janis Joplin
Jimi Hendrix
 
“Great generosity existed in those days”*
                                                    
                                                     Freedom wanting
                                                     Whiskey drinking
                                                     Cigarette smoking
At some cost
Not everybody rhymed
Not everybody
Rhymed
 
But we who took them seriously
Lived just in time.
 
*Leonard Cohen
                                                     Ed Sadtler
Obituary: Dr. Barry Berkey

Dr. Barry Berkey, long-time OLLI member, passed away quietly in his sleep April 12. He first joined OLLI in the fall of 1998 and taught the Life Story writing class.

Dr. Berkey was formerly associated with the George Mason University English Department. In recent years the department gave an annual prize, the Dr. Barry Berkey Personal Essay Award, to an English major in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences based on a short personal essay.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 on Monday, April 18, at National Funeral Home, 7482 Lee Highway, Falls Church, VA 22042. Please join Velma and family for the memorial service, followed immediately by a reception. The funeral home is located adjacent to King David Memorial Gardens (see map).

Further information is available at this link.

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances April 15 through April 29


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:

Proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test result will be needed through May 1. Beginning May 2, audience members will not be 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. Face coverings continue to be required at all events. 

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 send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Maria Schneider
Sat, Apr 16, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $46, $39, $28.

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra with Simone Dinnerstein
Sat, Apr 23, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $65, $55, $40.

Lila Downs
Sun, Apr 24, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36. 
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

Mason Dance Company: Spring, New Dances
Fri, Apr 15, 8:00
Sat, Apr 16, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $15, $10 seniors.

Mason School of Theater: In a Sentimental Mood, The Music of Duke Ellington
Fri, Apr 15, 8:00
Sat, Apr 16, 2:00 and 8:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, Theater Space
Admission: $20, $10 seniors.

Symphonic Band Concert, featuring Samantha Clarke, doctoral conducting recital
Wed, Apr 20, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12, $10 seniors, $5 students.

Mason Jazz Vocal Night
Mon, Apr 25, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12, $8 seniors, $5 students.

Mason Wind Symphony Concert
Thur, Apr 28, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12, $8 seniors, $5 students.

Mason Opera presents Rossini's La Cenerentola
Fri, Apr 29, 8:00
Sat, Apr 30, 2:00
Sun, May 1, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20, $15 seniors, $5 students.

International Jazz Day Concert
Sat, Apr 30, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12, $8 seniors, $5 students.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit by Jayne Matricardi: Motherscape
Continues to May 22
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

US Army Field Band Concert
Fri, Apr 22, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: Free, tickets required. 

Leslie Odom, Jr.
Sat, Apr 30, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $100, $75, $60.

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

Back to Top of Page

Meetings & Clubs


Please note: 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. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates; also, check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for event information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week 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 Apr 16
 		 10:30 am
1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Tue Apr 19  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 20
 		  1:30 pm
 1:45 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Bridge Club
Thu Apr 21
 		  4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Apr 22
 
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Photography Club
Sat Apr 23 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Apr 26  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 27
 
 
 		  1:45 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Bridge Club
Mah Jongg Club
Spanish Club
Theater Lovers’ Group
Thu Apr 28  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Apr 29
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Apr 30 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
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

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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E-News-April-8-2022

by

OLLI E-News April 8, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
OLLI Players in The Golden Oldies Show, March 30

April 8, 2022


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • You can still register for spring 2022 courses on a space-available basis. The catalog is online at this link.
  • For a list of canceled, changed, and added courses for the spring term, click here.
  • Board of Directors Meeting Friday, April 15, 10:00. All members welcome; Zoom link and other information will appear in the OLLI daily schedule email for April 15.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, April 15; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, April 12, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director

Welcome Back to New and Varied Learning
 


By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director



It’s been a long two-year journey and I’m very happy to say to all our members, “Welcome back!” As we reopen our doors this spring, it seems like old times as the campuses bustle again with happy OLLI members enjoying each other’s company. With the advent of hybrid technology in the classrooms, it is such a pleasure to see all of you in person and online enjoying lectures, films, clubs, and social gatherings. We are back and thriving due to the enormous contributions of all of our dedicated volunteers—from teachers to curriculum planners to our tech support experts. Thank you! All of you have made a huge difference in continuing our mission of lifelong learning and socialization throughout the pandemic.

In this moment of rejoicing in our accomplishments at OLLI, I want to highlight especially the efforts of OLLI President Paul Howard for organizing the technology improvements that have led to hybrid services in the classrooms. Paul and his team of “Swifties” rose to the challenge of bringing hybrid classroom integration to OLLI and pulled off the seemingly impossible through grit and hard work. Today, OLLI members near and far are able to zoom into physical classrooms with live audiences from anywhere, thanks to these valued volunteers. It’s great to be back and I look forward to seeing each and every one of you on campus and beyond.

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Reminder: OLLI Board of Directors Election Coming in May



Bob Heyer, Board Member and Election Committee Chair



Remember, in May we have an election coming up for five vacant positions on the OLLI Board for the next three years. Here are the candidates for the positions:

Go to the OLLI website at olli.gmu.edu, then click on Board of Directors Candidates to read the bios of the candidates. On Friday, May 6, the candidates will be at the ZOOM OLLI annual membership meeting at 10:00. They will introduce themselves and take questions. The election will begin at noon on May 6.
If you are interested in becoming a candidate and being part of the OLLI future, please contact our OLLI Election Committee Chairman, Bob Heyer ([email protected]) for details.

Computer Club

3rd Saturday, April 16 In Person and Via Zoom
Creating Slideshows with PTE Studio 
Learn in 30: Internet Radio on the Road - Safely


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, April 16, in person and via Zoom. You must observe OLLI/Mason Health protocols and do the daily health check prior to arrival. See: https://olli.gmu.edu/health-and-safety/#COVID-check. (We suggest you set up the Mason health check account with an email account you use on your cell phone, and an easy-to-remember password.) Program activities begin at 1:00; the Zoom session usually opens at 12:45.

Creating Slideshows with PTE Studio – Presented by Gary Oddi

This presentation will demonstrate ‘PTE AV (Pictures to Exe Audiovisual) Studio.' It is a program for producing slideshows using your digital images and videos to create MP4s, exes, DVDs, or AVI formats. You can add text, background music, and transitions, being as creative as you wish It gives you a way to use and present the images and videos you shoot.

You can animate the images, videos, and text, using Pan, Zoom Rotate, and 3D. You can apply many slide styles, themes, and transition effects. The animation is done using keyframes that let you be as creative as you wish. Video clips can be edited within the program. Audio tracks can be added and edited, to include fade in/out, volume, cross-fading, and more. Samples of slideshows will be shown, and the program will be demonstrated. 

Gary's Bio: I’ve been an amateur photographer for over 50 years. I like to take pictures and videos and put them together to save the memories of a trip or an event. I’ve created many slideshows with this program. I’m no expert, but the program offers the ability to be creative and share your stories with others. I post my slideshows on my Facebook account and YouTube channel. I don’t think there is a better way to present your photography or create memories of your still images and videos.

Learn in 30 – Internet Radio on the Road – Safely: Presented by John Krout

This presentation will introduce three related topics. First, learn how to find and try internet radio stations for almost any genre or topic. Second, learn about an app for your phone or tablet providing customizable screen buttons for your favorite internet radio stations, like the physical buttons of car radios, so you can easily and safely switch stations while driving. Third, learn how to feed audio from your phone or tablet through your car stereo for great audio quality in your car.

John Krout began his exploration of these topics almost a year ago, after being dissatisfied with SiriusXM (satellite radio) playlist management for a few years. He will identify the applications and provide QR codes so you can download them immediately if you wish.

See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 for 2022—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, you can begin at 12:45. Please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 951528 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 831 7741 9580 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode.

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Looking for the Joy

Love in my orange cats’ stares
Calming rhythm of their purring
Warm sweetness of their cuddles

Mama red fox and two kits playing
Yellow finch swooping in for thistle
Squirrels and chipmunks scurry

Pink azaleas blooming early
Tall peonies budding brightly
Roses reaching for the sky

Family far and wide in touch
Friends always reaching out
Neighbors wave and chat

Blessings of home and security
Recognition of my privileged life
Offering solace and support to others

                       Sally Sibley
 

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Mason Jazz Concerts April 13 and 16



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



Mason has several great jazz concerts coming up in April, including the following two next week. Mark your calendars!

MASON JAZZ COMBOS
Wednesday, April 13, 8:00
De Laski Performing Arts Building, 3001
Free and open to the public.

Join the Mason Jazz Combos, directed by Wade Beach in their spring concert! Featured groups include Combo 327, Combo 336, and Combo 338 performing original compositions and arrangements of jazz standards. The Mason Jazz Combos are a vital part of the Jazz Studies curriculum, providing students opportunities in improvisation, composition, and arranging, as well as small-group performing experience. The Jazz Combos are open to music and non-music majors, instrumentalists, and vocalists of all musical abilities.



MARIA SCHNEIDER with THE METROPOLITAN JAZZ ORCHESTRA
Saturday, April 16, 8:00
Center for the Arts
Purchase Tickets: https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/metropolitan-jazz-orchestra/

GRAMMY Award-winning composer, conductor, and Mason Artist-in-Residence Maria Schneider conducts Northern Virginia’s own Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra in a night of cool, expressive jazz. Witness jazz perfection with National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Schneider and the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra in this highly anticipated event. “To call Schneider the most important woman in jazz is missing the point—she’s a major composer–period” (TIME Magazine). Founded and led by virtuoso saxophonist Jim Carroll, the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra is comprised of the most remarkable jazz performers in the Washington region.
 
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances April 8 through April 18


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


Virtual Performances

Previously announced vaccination, testing, and masking policies for audience members remain in effect for both the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all in-person audience members. The venues are committed to staying current with evolving public health recommendations regarding safety and comfort, and following industry best practices in accordance with guidance from George Mason University. If these policies change, they will be updated on the Center’s webpage: 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 send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Virginia Opera: The Marriage of Figaro
Sat, Apr 9, 8:00
Sun, Apr 10, 2:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $110, $70, $40.

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Maria Schneider
Sat, Apr 16, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $46, $39, $28.
 
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

Mason School of Theater: Everybody
Fri, Apr 8, 8:00
Sat, Apr 9, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Apr 10, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $30 Adults; $15 seniors.

Jazz Combos Concert
Wed, April 13, 8:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, 3001
Admission: Free.

Mason Dance Company: Spring, New Dances
Fri, Apr 15, 8:00
Sat, Apr 16, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $15 Adults; $10 seniors.

Mason School of Theater: In a Sentimental Mood, The Music of Duke Ellington
Fri, Apr 15, 8:00
Sat, Apr 16, 2:00 and 8:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, Theater Space
Admission: $20 Adults; $10 seniors.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit by Jayne Matricardi: Motherscape
April 5 – May 22
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

Mason Broadway Chorale Showcase
Sat, Apr 9, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 Adults; $15 seniors.

Gian Marco en Concierto
Thu, Apr 14, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $149, $129, $99, $69, $49.

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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. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates; also, check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for event information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Apr 9 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Apr 12  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 13
 
 		  1:45 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Bridge Club
Mah Jongg Club
Spanish Club
Thu Apr 14  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Apr 15
 
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Apr 16
 		 10:30 am
1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Tue Apr 19  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 20
 		  1:30 pm
 1:45 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Bridge Club
Thu Apr 21
 		  4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Apr 22
 
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Photography Club
Sat Apr 23 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
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

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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E-News-April-1-2022

by

OLLI E-News April 1, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Board of Directors Meeting, March 18
(See Summary Article Below)
 

April 1, 2022


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • You can still register for spring 2022 courses on a space-available basis. The catalog is online at this link.
  • For a list of canceled, changed, and added courses for the spring term, click here.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, April 8; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, April 5, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director
OLLI Mason Applies for Grant


By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director


With help from Grants contractor Judy Pirozzi, OLLI’s grants/fundraising committee is submitting a $12,000 request for AARP’s Community Challenge grant. The national grants competition is part of their Livable Communities program. The grant is open to projects which demonstrate that community members are meeting the challenge to make their cities, towns, and communities more livable—with a focus on adults ages 50+. We chose this AARP grant category for OLLI’s pilot project: “Making the community more inclusive and meeting the needs of diverse older adults and residents (with a focus on people aged 50 and older).”

OLLI’s request is to underwrite a pilot program at a residential community for low- and moderate-income adults, for the purpose of reducing disparities in access to learning opportunities for older adults in Fairfax County/NoVA. The committee plans to seek other complementary funding and program partners to expand OLLI’s diversity and inclusion efforts, with this pilot program being one aspect addressing economic disparities.

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Summary of March Board of Directors Meeting


By Rita Way, Secretary


The regular meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually March 18, 2022. OLLI President Paul Howard opened the meeting by announcing that the Osher Foundation institutes will have their annual national meeting April 25–27, 2022. Zach Teich will attend and represent OLLI Mason.

Bob Heyer, Nominating Committee chair, reported on the progress of his committee. Names and biographical summaries of the candidates will be announced shortly. (Ed. Note: see following article.)

Al Smuzinski, chair of the Ad Hoc Grant Committee, introduced guest speaker Judy Pirozzi, who gave a presentation outlining the process for acquisition of grants.

Executive Director Jennifer Disano reported construction of the ramp at Tallwood is nearly complete. Clean-up of the entire campus is in process. Classrooms include signage to reinforce health and safety protocols. She will have a walk-through with the Mason contractor to make sure all is ready for first day of classes. She reported that currently the total membership is 995 (Annual, Introductory, and Lifetime).

Three resolutions were approved by the Board:
Resolution 220318-01: Resolved, that the Board approve official signers (Board officers and executive director) to establish a Nonprofit Business Credit Card through the George Mason University Foundation for use by the executive director and staff.
Resolution 220318-02: Resolved, that the OLLI Board adopt procedures for nominating officers to be incorporated in the Policy and Procedures Manual.
Resolution 220318-03: Resolved, that the OLLI Board approve application for an AARP grant.

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Announcing OLLI Board of Directors Candidates


By Bob Heyer, Board Member and Election Committee Chair


As announced by the OLLI Board of Directors, we have nine members who are running to fill the five vacant positions on the OLLI Board for the next three years.
They are:
   Lillian Brooks
   Marilyn Harriman
   Doug Snoeyenbos		    Dick Crawford
   Bonnie Nelson
   Ray Willson		 Jim Dann
Michele Romano
Carolyn Wyatt



Go to the OLLI website at olli.gmu.edu, then click on Board of Directors Candidates to read the bios of the candidates and see their photos. All the candidates are accomplished and experienced and looking forward to helping us meet the many challenges we will face in the next few years. Some of the issues the Board will be addressing include our transition to ZOOM hybrid and in-person classes, financial planning and support, and increasing our membership. These candidates are eager to provide their thoughts, energy, and innovative ideas to help guide us in maintaining our George Mason OLLI as one of the best OLLIs in the country!

Register for the ZOOM OLLI annual membership meeting at 10:00 on Friday, May 6. Immediately following the meeting, we will transition into “Meet the Candidates,” who will tell you about themselves and then answer questions from the audience. The election will begin at noon on May 6.

If you are interested in becoming a candidate and being part of the OLLI future, please contact our OLLI Election Committee Chairman, Bob Heyer ([email protected]) for details.

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Topics and Speakers for Medical Updates Course, Spring


By Catherine Weir, STEM Program Liaison


The spring catalog did not list the topics and speakers for the course F804Z Medical Updates from the Health Professionals at Inova Fair Oaks Hospital because our hospital contact has only recently announced the list. Below is a list and schedule for the spring term. The course is to be presented on the last three Thursdays in the term, so there is still time to register.

Thursday May 5, 11:50 to 1:15
Motion Capture: Revolutionary Technology for Injury Prevention
Dr. Robert M. Dombrowski. Orthopedic Surgeon, Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics

Thursday May 12, 11:50 to 1:15
Preventive Exercises and Ergonomics for Lumbar Sciatica
Dr. Faisal A. Siddiqui. Orthopedic Surgeon, The Spine Care Center

Thursday May 19, 11:50 to 1:15
Cataracts and Glaucoma 101: The Basics
Dr. Shakeel R. Shareef. Ophthalmologist, Reston

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History Club April Meeting


By Elizabeth Lambert, History Club Coordinator


The next virtual meeting of the History Club will take place on Wednesday, April 6 at 4:00. Our speaker will be Pat McGinty, who will tell us why Thomas Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, holds a unique position in American history. Pat will describe Wilson’s work in foreign policy, both his successes and his failure in trying to convince the American people to join the League of Nations. At the same time, Wilson was popular with the masses here and abroad. Here is a man of apparent opposites; how can we come to terms with this fact?

Pat has an MA and PhD in history from Georgetown University. In addition to the many and varied courses he teaches for our OLLI, he has taught at the University of Maryland University College. Pat’s presentations are always information-filled, so be sure to put the April 6 meeting on your calendar and, if we have learned anything in these two years, it is that Zoom can reach far and wide. So, invite as many guests as you wish.

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Tallwood Book Club April Meeting


By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator


The Tallwood Book Club will hold its monthly Zoom meeting on Friday, April 8 at 2:30 to discuss Diane Johnson's Lorna Mott Comes Home. The Zoom link and other information will be available in the OLLI daily schedule email on April 8.
 
The book selection for the May meeting will be made at this meeting.

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More In-person and Zoom Theater Possibilities


By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator


A perennial favorite, Mason's musical ambassadors, The Mason Cabaret, will perform In a Sentimental Mood: The Music of Duke Ellington live at deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, TheaterSpace, on the Fairfax campus this April. Conceived and directed by Erin and James Gardiner with music direction by Joe Walsh, In a Sentimental Mood showcases the brilliant work of DC's own, the legendary Duke Ellington. This year, the Cabaret will also feature Mason dancers in addition to the stellar voices of The Mason Cabaret. You will find yourself wanting to dance in the aisles and sing familiar songs all the way home. Performances are Friday, April 15, at 8:00, and Saturday, April 16, at 2:00 and 8:00. Senior tickets are $10. As this is a “fun-raiser,” tickets support Mason's musical theater program. To purchase tickets online, go to theater.gmu.edu or cfa.gmu.edu/. 
 
On Monday, April 18, from noon to 1:15, be sure to join Mason's Director of the School of Theater, Djola Branner, for a conversation with Luis Alfaro. Alfaro is a poet, performance artist, playwright, theater director, and social activist. His plays and fiction are set in Los Angeles Chicano barrios, including the Pico Union district where he grew up. Central to his work are the ways in which cultural and social practices shape personal and group identities. He has been the recipient of numerous awards, including MacArthur "Genius" Foundation Fellowship, National Hispanic Playwriting Competition Prize, and appointment as a Playwright in Residence at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. To sign up for this free, virtual, open-to-all event, email [email protected] and tell him you want to attend the event.
 
On Wednesday, April 27 from 4:00 to 5:15, Tokomo Azuma, director of development for NextStop Theatre in Herndon, will speak with the Theater Lovers' Group via Zoom. All OLLI members are welcome to join us when she takes us on a behind-the-scenes tour of what it takes to produce a play. According to Azuma, "The finished product that the audience sees is just the tip of the iceberg. All the creation that happens before the performance is what I find interesting since that is where the art gets created and shaped. It's the process that brings great theater to life." Save the date and check OLLI's Daily Schedule email for the link to the program on April 27.

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Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

WHERE ARE THE KIDS?

 

I went for a walk

Just the other day

It dawned on me—

No one is out to play.

 

Where are the kids?

 There oughta be kids

Send out the kids

They should be outdoors

 

No one is here

Playing outside

They’re all in the house,

Quiet as a mouse.

 

Covid has kept them inside

Where, from the world,

They can hide.

                                                        Joan Lunsford

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances April 1 through April 11


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


Virtual Performances

Previously announced vaccination, testing, and masking policies for audience members remain in effect for both the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all in-person audience members. The venues are committed to staying current with evolving public health recommendations regarding safety and comfort and following industry best practices, in accordance with guidance from George Mason University. If these policies change, they will be updated on the Center’s webpage: 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 send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Camille A. Brown & Dancers
Sat, Apr 2, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $46, $39, $28.
 
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Evocative Visions
Sun, Apr 3, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
 
Virginia Opera: The Marriage of Figaro
Sat, Apr 9, 8:00
Sun, Apr 10, 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $110, $70, $40.
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

Mason School of Theater: Everybody
Fri, Apr 1, Thu, Apr 7, and Fri, Apr 8, 8:00
Sat, Apr 2 and 9, Sun, Apr 10, 2:00
Sat, Apr 2 and 9, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $30 Adults; $15 seniors.

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At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit: Jenny Wu
Through Sun, Apr 3
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 
Gallery Exhibit by Jayne Matricardi: Motherscape
April 5 – May 22
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 
Mason Tuba Euphonium Ensemble Concert
Sat, Apr 2, 2:00
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Hall
Admission: Free.
 
Ordway Conservatory Youth Ballet: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Sat, Apr 2, 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $25 Adults; $20 children.
 
Hylton Family Series: Paddington Gets in a Jam
Sun, Apr 3, 1:00 and 4:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $15 Adults; $10 children.
 
Virginia Opera: A Taste of Opera
Tue, Apr 5, 1:30
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $29 (concert only).
 
Mason Broadway Chorale Showcase
Sat, Apr 9, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 Adults; $15 seniors.

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

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Meetings & Clubs


Please note: Physical meetings for many clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines; if your club is meeting in person, you should receive notice from the coordinator. OLLI is conducting most classes and activities online; exceptions are noted in the catalog. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates and check the OLLI calendar for revised information.

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

 
Sat Apr 2 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Apr 5
 		  4:30 pm
 6:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Ethnic Eats
Wed Apr 6
 
 		  1:30 pm
 1:45 pm
 4:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Bridge Club
History Club
Thu Apr 7  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Apr 8
 
 
 
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm		 Recorder Consort
Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Apr 9 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Apr 12  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 13
 
 		  1:45 pm
 4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Bridge Club
Mah Jongg Club
Spanish Club
Thu Apr 14  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Apr 15
 
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Apr 16
 		 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, Roz Stark,
    Jane Hassell
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

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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E-News-March-18-2022

by

OLLI E-News March 18, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Winter-Term Collaboration, OLLI and AARP:
Fritz Gearhart, Professor of Violin at University of Oregon, Talks on Beethoven’s Life and Music, February 16, 2022
[Note: Zoom on image with Ctrl-mouse scroll wheel or, on Mac, Cmd-"+/=" to zoom in and (Cmd-"-_" to zoom out)]

March 18, 2022


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • The OLLI Personal Computer User Group (OPCUG) meets at 1:00 on Saturday, March 19 (tomorrow)—see Computer Club announcement article below.
  • You can still register for spring 2022 courses on a space-available basis. The catalog is online at this link.
  • For a list of canceled, changed, and added courses for the spring term, click here.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, April 1; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, March 29, at 6:00.
OLLI President's Message, March 18:
Return to Campus


By Paul Howard, President
 


OLLI is committed to the health and well-being of our members. Towards that end, we’ve acquired air-cleaning units with HEPA filtration and UV light purification technology that we’re placing in Tallwood classrooms and other spaces. We are eager to get back in-person to see our friends, but we have an obligation to each other to keep our friends safe. Requirements for attending classes include all of us to be fully vaccinated and boosted, not coming to class or activities with symptoms of COVID, cold, or flu, and completing the GMU daily health check. We’ve wrestled with how to confirm the results of the check and decided that the best approach is affirming our personal obligation to each other by showing our seatmates in class the ‘green flag’ approval of the Mason health check.

As background, on January 31st, George Mason University President Gregory Washington announced that the university is “winning the battle against COVID-19” and reported that the university will no longer require proof of COVID vaccination. In addition, Dr. Washington on March 4th reduced university-wide masking requirements, although Mason will continue to require masking in classrooms.

However, OLLI will still require verification of vaccination against COVID and masking of all individuals at our venues regardless of capacity. After conference with the University Provost Office, Executive Director Jennifer Disano has confirmed that OLLI will, independent of the University, follow our own health and safety criteria to protect our sensitive population.

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Spring Kick-Off Coffee – Thursday, March 24



 By Toni Acton, Member Services Committee Chair


Have some free time on March 24? Want to know what’s happening at OLLI this spring—updates on our facilities, latest health requirements for coming to campus, new classes? New members—we’re sure you have many questions, especially since most of you will be coming to campus for the first time! “Newbies” and longtime members—reconnect with friends and make new friends in our breakout sessions.

If this sounds like a good way to spend the morning of March 24, join us at the Spring Kick-Off Coffee from 10:00 to 11:30. Register online for class 1201Z OLLI Virtual Kick-Off Coffee or contact the registrar. Hope to see you there!

The Golden Oldies Show

By Michelle Blandburg and Linda Harber, OLLI Players and Friends of Music at Mason Members
 
Do you swoon when you hear a song or lyrics from those Golden Oldie times? Do love remembering Nat King Cole and Elvis and Patsy Cline and Broadway shows from the 1940's-1970's? Then this is the Zoom event for you! 

Reminisce with OLLI’s premier performing group, The OLLI Players, at an afternoon of musical entertainment! On Wednesday, March 30 at 2:15, we will present “The Golden Oldies Show” – a trip down memory lane with songs and skits from the 40’s through the 70’s. Join the Players as we tell the stories, as well as sing or recite our favorite numbers, from pop music to Broadway hits. You will hear classic favorites and have lots of fun. It will feel like the "good old days" by the record player or television.

We miss our OLLI friends and appreciate you joining our virtual audience on March 30. You don’t want to miss the fun! This event is 1001Z; be sure to register in advance.

The Many Hats of an Archaeologist



 By Chris Sperling, OLLI Instructor


As we move swiftly—far too swiftly, it seems—through our lives, we sometimes forget how we got here, that our whole existence is layered with a rich and often fantastic past. This is a chance to look at some of those layers that have brought us thus far and, hopefully, will carry us further.

For almost 30 years, I identified as a field archaeologist. The field had been my focus since my first paid job as an archaeologist at age 19. In recent years, I have spoken to this group about the many field projects I led in my role as senior archaeologist with the Fairfax County Park Authority. However, at the end of 2020 I accepted a position as the historic preservation planner in the Calvert County Department of Planning and Zoning. I traded in a long commute and identity as a field archaeologist for more time at home and a purely bureaucratic role. Or so I thought. It turns out that a historic preservation planner must wear several hats and, in a small jurisdiction, the work of saving our past for current and future generations requires a more personal touch.

I hope you will register for Event 955Z, The Many Hats of a Historic Preservationist: Life in Planning and Zoning, and join me virtually on March 30 at 2:15. I will discuss the use of technology to rediscover lost pasts and even share the "fun" of fighting tides in a kayak while mapping a vernacular boat. Success in this work definitely requires developing and maintaining interpersonal relationships. 

Computer Club

3rd Saturday, March 19 via Zoom
Add NAS to Your Router
Learn in 30: Wi-Fi and Routers


 By Paul Howard, OPCUG Program Chair
 
 
The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, March 19, via Zoom. Program activities begin at 1:00; the Zoom session usually opens at 12:45.

Add NAS to Your Router – Presented by John Krout
Network Attached Storage (NAS) is any drive connected to your home Local Area Network (LAN) and is available for storing computer backups and sharing files with any computer, smart phone, or tablet connected to the same LAN. In this presentation, you will learn how to attach inexpensive flash drives, portable hard drives or portable Solid‑State Drives (SSDs) to your router, and to check that the router recognizes the attached NAS. Also, you will learn how to configure Windows, iOS, and Android devices to use the NAS.
John has been using NAS with his home router for more than six months, and his router model price has recently fallen by 50% on Amazon and at Microcenter.
 
Learn in 30: Wi-Fi and Routers – Presented by Lorrin Garson
Wi-Fi 6 was released on September 1, 2020, and there are now many products that can accommodate this wireless technology. What is Wi-Fi 6? What are the advantages of Wi-Fi 6 over previous versions of wireless communications standards? What is the difference between Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E? And, what features should you look for in a wireless router?

Lorrin's presentations to our computer groups are famous for their thorough research and clarity in explaining topics such as cryptography, encryption of personal data, cloud storage, and the origins of personal computers.
 
See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 for 2022—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

Attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45. Please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 951 528 or enter meeting ID 831 7741 9580 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode.

Theater Possibilities: Free and Open to All


 By Norma Jean Reck, 
Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator
 

Here's your chance to go to Capital One Hall, located at 7750 Capital One Towers Road, Tysons, 22102, for free. On Sunday, March 20, at 3:00, Capital One Hall is offering a free concert titled "Celebration." It is in honor of John Williams and features works of American composers. For directions, a list of musical offerings, and to get your free ticket, go to www.capitalonehall.com. Feel free to invite friends to enjoy a concert with you.
 
Join Djola Branner, director of Mason's School of Theater, on Monday, March 28, for a curated series of conversations with artists exploring race and power in their work. These conversations draw people from across the United States who have extensive experience in theater and are quite knowledgeable. Their questions and comments add value to the conversation.

Director Branner will be speaking with Mary Kathryn Nagle, a Native American playwright and a partner at Pipestem Law, a firm that specializes in tribal sovereignty of Native nations and people. After being commissioned by Arena Stage to write Sovereignty, Ms. Nagle became the first Native American playwright to ever have their work featured in the venue. The event is free, virtual, and open to all. To sign up for the event, email Nick Horner at Mason and tell him you want to sign up for the event: [email protected].
 
The Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) meeting for Wednesday, March 23, at 4:00, has been canceled and rescheduled for Wednesday, April 27, at 4:00. Stay tuned for further details. Questions? Email [email protected].
 
To receive all emails about TLG events, be sure to sign up for TLG online at the OLLI member portal or email the registrar at [email protected].
Big Band Showdown – March 28



 By Dr. Darden Purcell, Mason Director of Jazz Studies


Join the Mason Jazz Ensemble, with director Jim Carroll, the Jazz Workshop, with director John Kocur, and special guests, the Loudoun Jazz Ensemble, with director John Lewis, for an evening that celebrates the hot sounds and swinging beats of the Big Band era!

The performance is at the Center for the Arts, March 28, 8:00; click here to purchase tickets. Tickets are $12 general public, $8 seniors, $5 students.
 
Photo of the Month


       

The OLLI Photo Club members selected Lynne Cline's photo, "River Otter" as the March Photo of the Month. It 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

The Distracted Poet
By Susan Bennett
 
The poems I love best are the ones that lay themselves out
on the page like a willing paramour, arms and legs akimbo,
waiting for me to draw back the sheet and reveal their loveliness.
The poems I hate most are the ones unable or unwilling to arrange
themselves neatly to fit into the forms I favor and have mastered.
 
I love them when they arrive unbidden and confirm my cleverness.
Hate them when they refuse to appear like a temperamental diva.
Hate them when they are seduced by the latest fads and fashions.
Hate them when they stare back at me and ask is that all you’ve got?
Love them when they wait for me to say let’s try again.

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances March 18 through April 4


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


Virtual Performances

Previously announced vaccination, testing, and masking policies for audience members remain in effect as of February 22 for both the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. The venues are committed to staying current with evolving public health recommendations regarding safety and comfort and following industry best practices, in accordance with guidance from George Mason University. If these policies change, they will be updated on the Center’s webpage:  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 send an email to Brianna Schoen at [email protected]. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.

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At the Fairfax Campus Venues

SW!NG OUT: A Joyce Theater Production
Sat, Mar 19, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $30.

Edgar Meyer and the Scottish Ensemble
Sun, Mar 27, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $30.
 
Camille A. Brown & Dancers
Sat, Apr 2, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $46, $39, $28.
 
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Evocative Visions
Sun, Apr 3, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
Mason Student and Faculty Performances

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

Mason School of Dance: 2022 Gala Concert
Fri, Mar 25, 8:00
Sat, Mar 26, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $25 Adults; $15 seniors.
 
2022 Mason Dance Fête
Sat, Mar 26, 5:30
deLaski Performing Arts Building
Admission: $110 (includes reception and concert)
 
Dewberry School of Music: Big Band Showdown
Mon, Mar 28, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 Adults; $8 seniors.
 
Mason School of Theater: Everybody
Thu, Fri, Sat, Mar 31, Apr 1, Apr 2, 8:00
Thu, Fri, Sat, Apr 7, 8, 9, 8:00
Sat, Apr 2 and 9, Sun Apr 10, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $30 Adults; $15 seniors.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit: Jenny Wu
Through Sun, Apr 3
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
  
Prince William Little Theatre: Sister Act
Fri, Mar 18, 8:00
Sat, Mar 19, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Mar 20, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25 Adults; $20 Seniors, $15 Children.
 
Manassas Chorale: Wonder, Love and Praise
Sat, Mar 19, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $25.

The Okee Dokee Brothers
Sun, Mar 20, 1:00 and 4:00
Merchant Hall
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: Physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines. OLLI is conducting its classes and activities online. Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates and check the OLLI calendar for revised information.

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Mar 19
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Mar 21
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Club
Tue Mar 22
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Mar 23
 
 		 10:30 am
12:00 noon
 2:00 pm		 Tom Crooker’s Investment Forum
Spring Pre-term Staff Meeting
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Mar 24
 
 		 10:00 am
11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 Kick-off Coffee
All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Mar 25
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Photography Club
Sat Mar 26 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Mar 29
 		  2:15 pm
 4:30 pm		 Loudoun Non-Fiction Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Mar 30  1:45 pm Bridge Club
Thu Mar 31
 		  4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Apr 1
 
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Apr 2 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, Roz Stark,
    Jane Hassell
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

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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E-News-February-18-2022

by

OLLI E-News February 18, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Dr. Afra Ahmad, Mason Director of Master of Professional Studies in Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Addresses Her Research in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace, February 10

February 18, 2022


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • OLLI Personal Computer User Group (OPCUG) meeting, 1:00 on February 19 (tomorrow). Zoom link appears in the OLLI Daily Schedule email for February 18/19. (Zoom session begins at 12:45.)
  • Priority registration for spring term 2022 is February 22 – March 2. The catalog is online at this link.
  • For a list of canceled, changed, and added courses for the spring term, click here.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, March 4; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, March 1, at 6:00.

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Board of Directors Election Recruiting



By Bob Heyer, Board Member and Nominating Committee Chair



The OLLI Board of Directors Nominating Committee is recruiting members to be candidates for election to the Board of Directors. Every year, some new members are elected to the Board to replace members whose terms are ending. Being a Board member is a good way to learn more about the inner workings of OLLI, meet other members, and play an active role in helping OLLI transition to the future “new normal."

The Board meets monthly during the year except December, August, and our Annual Membership meeting in May. The only prerequisites to become a candidate for election to the Board are being an OLLI member desiring to contribute ideas and enjoying volunteering.

If you are interested in being a Board member, want further information, or would like to nominate another OLLI member to the Board, please contact Nominating Committee Chair Bob Heyer at [email protected].

Editor’s Note: This item appeared in last week’s issue. It is repeated here to encourage nominations to the Board.

Want More Art? Or Music?


By Kosmo Tatalias, Art and Music Program Planning Group Co-chair



Please bring your ideas for classes to a friendly Zoom meeting of fellow OLLI enthusiasts about creating and appreciating art works, music, dance, photography, and film. If art and music are among your passions but you do not have any specific suggestions at this time, you might enjoy seeing and communicating with fellow OLLI classmates with whom we have been unable to meet in person for such a long time!
 
Mark your calendar!
Topic: Art and Music Program Planning Group Meeting
Time: March 1, 2022, 10:00 Eastern Time!
 
If you cannot attend the meeting at that time but would like to suggest course topics or instructors, please send your ideas to Chris Narbut, [email protected].
 
To join the Zoom Meeting, click here. The link will also appear in the OLLI Daily Schedule email. Use meeting ID 899 8548 5941, passcode 654321, or dial in at 301-715-8592.
 
Hope to see you there!
Music and Mystery



By Marianne Metz, Music and Art Program Planning Group Co-chair



You may have read about Brendan Slocumb in the newspaper or heard him on the radio. You may even know him personally, as several OLLI members do, from his long career teaching in Fairfax County schools and playing in the NOVA-Annandale Symphony Orchestra. Now this extraordinary musician and educator has also become an author, with the publication of his debut novel The Violin Conspiracy.

Slocumb’s thriller has a protagonist inspired by the author’s own life. When he was nine, Slocumb started playing violin through a public-school music program. It saved his life, he said. Friends he grew up with are today sitting in jail; when they were out running the streets, he was in rehearsals. When they were breaking into people’s houses, he was practicing Dvorak and Mozart. His violin opened the door to opportunity, and he ran through it. The same is true for his novel’s hero, whose added complications involve the theft of his Stradivarius and revelations about his own family.

As you can imagine, Brendan Slocumb is busier now than ever. OLLI’s staff and program planners are trying to arrange for his teaching an OLLI class in a future term. In the meantime, you can hear him at a Fall for the Book event on February 24. He’ll talk about The Violin Conspiracy and perform on his own violin along with a string ensemble of local musicians. Sponsored by Fairfax County Public Libraries, this FREE event will be held at the Sherwood Center (on Old Lee Highway in Fairfax City), from 7:15 to 8:45, with pre-registration required. You can reserve your free tickets at this link.

History Club March Meeting



By Elizabeth Lambert, History Club Coordinator




The virtual March meeting of the History Club will take place on Wednesday, March 2. Because classes are not in session, the meeting will take place at 10:00.

Jim Triesler will be speaking on The Women of the 6888 Postal Battalion and Mail During World War II. Mail delivery, censorship, family codes, and V‑mail made correspondence during the war a very complicated matter. A little-known fact about the mail is the work done by the 6888 Postal Directory Battalion—the only all-Black, all-female group to serve overseas during World War II. All of this will be new and of great interest to many of us.

Jim Triesler serves as the director of education for the Virginia War Memorial and is historian for the National Battle of the Bulge Association. His enthusiasm for his subject has taken him to towns, battlefields, and beaches in Europe where soldiers fought. Jim’s is a subject that will shed light on a different, unique aspect of WWII.

All OLLI members and their guests are welcome to attend History Club meetings. We can always promise you a different take on what may be a familiar subject.

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Photo of the Month



The February 2022 Photo of the Month theme was Two Things. We selected Rosemary Lubinski's photo "Stop staring!" 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
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Valuables  
 
As I enter my seventies,
I apportion my possessions
And my late husband’s
To children and grandchildren,
Family and dear friends.
Not the last will and testament,
Nor the small estate draws my attention,
No rare trinkets that merit appraisal.
 
It’s our gifts exchanged –
Messages of love penned in birthday,
Anniversary, and Valentine cards.
The first poem he wrote for me.
The pewter mug from the bookstore,
A gift when I enrolled at his
Alma mater at his advice.
My college photo he carried
In his wallet for thirty years.
His little black address book,
Found under a box, after
He mailed strangers searching for me.
A ring he bought for a high school love,
The girl he thought he would marry,
Now mine, after skipping
Two previous wives.
The bride and groom teddy bears
Presented to each other upon
Our long-delayed engagement.
A pair of ticket stubs for Star Trek 2009.
The first jewelry he bought me –
A freshwater pearl necklace.
When we moved, a bouquet and card
To welcome me to our “new nest.”
All things Guinness from our trip
To the Emerald Isle.
Most of all, a toy glass slipper
Found in a Hallmark store,
Fit for his Cinderella –
From my Prince Charming.
 
Nothing envied by anyone else,
Their cost minuscule or nothing,
Compelling value only to us
When we meet again in stardust.

        Margie Wildblood
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances February 18 through February 28


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


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

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater
Sat, Feb 19, 11:00 and 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15 Adults; $10 children.  

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra: Pieces by Rouse, Dvorak, Hailstork, Part, and Elgar
Sat, Feb 19, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $70, $60, $45.  

Pilobolus: Big Five-Oh!
Sun, Feb 20, 7:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $30.

Mason Jazz Festival
Sat, Feb 26, 8:00 to 8:00 (all day)
Festival in Harris Theatre and throughout deLaski Performing Arts Building
United States Army Blues Jazz Ensemble
at 7:00 in Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.

Mark Morris Dance Group
Sat, Feb 26, 2:00 and 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Sun, Feb 27, 7:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, which is located on the third level of the Center for the Arts Lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
 
Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Dewberry Faculty Artist Series:

(The information below is taken from the list of events at https://music.gmu.edu/events/. Note that although the events listed below are free, the site above provides a link to register for tickets to attend in person, and another to watch livestreams.)

Kathleen Mulcahy, clarinet; Sophia Kim Cook, piano
Sun, Feb 20, 3:00
Harris Theater
Admission: Free

Brass Faculty Recital
Sun, Feb 20, 7:00
Harris Theater
Admission: Free

Julianna Nickel, flute; Eunae Ko Han, piano
Sun, Feb 27, 3:00
Harris Theater
Admission: Free
 
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit: 10th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Student Exhibition
Through Fri, Feb 20
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

Ballet Hispánico
Sat, Feb 19, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $53, $46, $34.

Gallery Exhibit: Jenny Wu
Tue, Feb 22 – Sun, Apr 3
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

Va National Ballet - The Beatles! Tango Nights; and For those we lost
Sat, Feb 26, 2:00 and 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $40 Adults; $25 children.
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
 
Meetings & Clubs

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

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Feb 19
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Feb 21
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Club
Tue Feb 22
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 23
 
 		 10:30 am
 2:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Tom Crooker’s Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Theater Lovers’ Group
Thu Feb 24
 		 11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 25
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon		 Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Photography Club
Sat Feb 26 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Feb 28  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Mar 1
 
 		  9:30 am
10:00 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Music & Art Program Planning Group
Tai Chi Club
Wed Mar 2
 
 
 		 10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
 4:00 pm		 Bridge Club
CANCELED Mah Jongg Club
Tom Crooker’s Investment Forum
History Club
Thu Mar 3
 		 11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Mar 4
 
 		  9:15 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am		 Recorder Consort
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Sat Mar 5 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 
About OLLI E-News

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

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

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AT GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

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