Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

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

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-11-2022

by

OLLI E-News February 11, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.

Debby Wenner, Mason Adjunct Professor of Vocal Studies and Pedagogy, Presented a Well-Received Talk on The Mature Voice, February 4

February 11, 2022


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Board of Directors Meeting, Friday, February 18, 10:00. Zoom link will be available in the OLLI Daily Schedule email. All members welcome.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 18; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 15, 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].
For Music Lovers
By Linda H. Harber, President, Friends of Music at Mason

One of my favorite things about being involved with Friends of Music at Mason (FOMM) is telling other music lovers about the wonderful music programs available to all of us. With this new year come lots of great, and often free, music opportunities. Some are both in-person and live-streaming. This link takes you to the Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music live streams for the next few months, with great music to enjoy at home—from student recitals to the upcoming Dewberry Artist Series (see graphic above for times and dates). This Faculty Artist series will also be free and in person at Mason’s Harris Theatre on the Sundays listed in the graphic.
 
Later this month, there is something very special for all Jazz lovers:
****************************************************
MASON JAZZ FESTIVAL 
Saturday, February 26, 2022
10:00 – 8:00 (all day) 
Harris Theatre – George Mason University Fairfax Campus
 
All performances are FREE and open to the public! FREE parking in LOT K.  
 
Website:  music.gmu.edu/JazzFest
 
With special performances by the Mason Jazz Ensemble (directed by Jim Carroll) and closing festival concert by the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own" premier jazz ensemble, The US Army Blues.

 
****************************************************

Remember, all you need to do to receive all FOMM's mailings is send me ([email protected]) an email and you're on. You will enjoy Friday musical moments to brighten the end of each week and a monthly newsletter. I love the collaboration between OLLI and FOMM and hope you will join me in celebrating both things to love this February, and I hope you enjoy the music!
Computer Club


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 19, via Zoom. Program activities begin at 1:00; the Zoom session usually opens at 12:45.
 
DJ Using Streaming Services—On-Demand Tunes for an Upcoming High-School 50th Reunion Mike Pafford’s presentation is about how to use the audio equivalent of this 1999 Quest commercial—a Streaming Audio Account—along with other software and portable hardware-to provide 'on demand' music at any event. Although the topic is "DJ Using Streaming Services," the example will only describe how to use a Spotify Premium Account to create an event playlist to provide background music, and how to interrupt the playlist to play specific requests. Presentation topics will include a rundown of all account software and hardware resources needed, a proposed floor plan layout, information about audio streaming services, creating event playlists, how to manage playlists to provide uninterrupted background music (online or offline), and how to manipulate online playlists in real time, to accommodate specific requests.
 
Mike Pafford is a retired systems engineer, having had careers in the Navy and at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab. Previously, he presented a fascinating session about a lengthy road trip in an electric vehicle.
 
Learn in 30: Open Mic—Multiple Presentations on Members’ Favorite Software
 
Gary Oddi—PTE AV Studio 10 is a slideshow program for the PC and the MAC. It is used for producing digital slideshows using your images and videos.
 
Gabe Goldberg—Apple’s native Home app on iPhone/iPad/Watch/Mac lets you define/connect/control diverse accessories (e.g., HomePod speakers, electric outlets, lights, cameras, doorbells, locks).
 
Lorrin Garson—Swift Playgrounds is an Apple teaching tool aimed towards children to encourage them to learn how to program computers; it also presents an opportunity for experienced adults to learn to code.
 
Bill Walsh—Reboot Restore RX—will let you take a snapshot of your current computer configuration, establishing a baseline for future activity, allowing restoration of the baseline in case of errant activity.
 
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 1:00. Please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 757899 or enter meeting ID 883 4829 4760 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode.
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
"A Little Night Music"
 
Mmmm
Breath whistling faintly through a stuffy nose
A sniff, snuffle, or wheeze, if you please
Occasional gurgling of the gut
The outcry at a muscle cramp: ow, ow, ow
Painful hip joints groaning
Dry throats rasping
Then a gasp
A frenzied scrabble of scratching
A chorus of barking coughs
The startling percussion of a sneeze.
 
A shush of whispers
A snort of giggles
The very muffled crunches of a mattress
Sheets rustling
Smooth skin sliding
Sighs subsiding
Mumbled murmurings
Sputtering staccato snorts
Tiny dream yips
Sinking silence
Mmmm
                     Sandy Myles
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances February 11 through February 21


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.
 
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: Jason Vieaux, Guitar & Aaron Clay, Double Bass
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 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 free tickets to attend in-person, and another to watch livestreams.)
 
Kathleen Mulcahy, clarinet; Sophia Kim Cook, piano
Sun, Feb 20, 3:00
Harris Theater
Free

Brass Faculty Recital
Sun, Feb 20, 7:00
Harris Theater
Free
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibit: 10th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Student Exhibition
Continues through Sun, 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.
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 12 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Feb 15  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 16  4:00 pm Mah Jongg Club
Thu Feb 17
 		  4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 18
 
 
 		  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 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
About OLLI E-News

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

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

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

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ENews-February-4-2022

by

OLLI E-News February 4, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Dr. Richard Stillson Examines New Mexico’s Ancient Pueblo Culture in the First of Four Classes on Archeological and Historical Study of Ancient and Modern Pueblo Communities

February 4, 2022


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices


The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 11; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 8, at 6:00.

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Reston-Loudoun Program Planning Group Meeting February 7

 

By Barbara Wilan, Loudoun Program Planning Group Co-Chair


Please join us for our Reston-Loudoun Program Planning Group Meeting on Monday, February 7, at 1:15. Click on this link to join the meeting. We look forward to seeing you there.
The link will also be available in the OLLI Daily Schedule email; use meeting ID 874 5368 3925, passcode 246810, or dial in at 301-715-8592.
Tallwood Book Club

 

By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator


The Tallwood Book Club holds its monthly Zoom meeting at 2:30 on the second Friday of each month. 

The February 11 meeting will be a discussion of Brit Bennett's The Vanishing Half. The Zoom link will be available in the OLLI Daily Schedule email for February 11. The March selection is The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson.

Please contact Betty Ellerbee if you have difficulty reserving the Isabel Wilkerson book.
 

Reston Book Club Meeting

 
By Nancy Scheeler and Luci Martel, Reston Book Club Coordinators
 
The Reston Book Club will meet via Zoom on Thursday, February 17 at 4:00. The selection will be Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro, winner of the 2017 Nobel Prize for Literature. This is Ishiguro’s eighth novel, and Klara, who narrates it, is an Artificial Friend (AF), a humanoid machine—with short dark hair, kind eyes, and distinguished by her powers of observation—who has come to act as companion for 14‑year-old Josie. Like that childhood stalwart Corduroy, she’d been sitting in a store, hoping to be chosen by the right child. AFs aren’t tutors. They’re not babysitters (though they’re sometimes chaperones) nor servants (though they’re expected to take commands). They’re nominally friends, but not equals.

Theater Lovers' Group Speaker to Discuss Bringing Theater to Schools and the Community

  

By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator


You are invited to join members of OLLI's Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) virtual meeting Wednesday, February 23, at 4:30 when Ashley Hammond will discuss the many diversified theater programs that the Educational Theatre Company (ETC) offers to local schools and communities. Its mission is to unlock the potential of children and adults through immersion in theater arts.

ETC, located in Arlington, VA, is a 501(c)3 arts education organization that offers process-driven theater arts programming for students from three to 103. Their programming is based on the belief that the arts serve as an outlet for expression not only of life's frustrations and anxieties, but also for the celebration of human experiences. 

ETC is dedicated to life-long learning through academic lecture, reading scripts, storytelling, and more. Since 2009, it has been taking its Creative Age (55+) program to senior living centers, community centers and organizations. The program fosters unique discussions that allow group members to share, relate and learn from each other. ETC's reminiscence classes have been developed for participants with dementia.

For younger children and adults, ETC offers many camps and classes, residencies, workshops, and school curriculum-based programs. Its programming highlights its four pillars: Creativity, Confidence, Collaboration, and Community. Examples of ETC's program offerings include Topics in Theater, ETC-on-Film, Shakespeare in the Schools, ETC STEAM, and themed birthday parties, for example, Scooby Doo, Pirates, and Princesses.

Be sure to join TLG virtually Wednesday, February 23, at 4:30 to hear an enthusiastic and dynamic speaker, Ashley Hammond, discuss a unique approach to theater. For more information on ETC, go to www.educationaltheatrecompany.org.
 
Finally—to be sure you receive all TLG notices of its meetings, theater events, and activities, register for the OLLI Theater Lovers' Group at the member portal (club registration was formerly a once-a-year task; now we must do it every term).
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Three Senryu (The more human Haiku)
 
Ten pounds lost in Leeds
Never recouped from the Scots
Tight-fisted bookies!
 
Lost ten pounds one day
In Miami, not regained
...there was this large shark...
 
I've shed thirty pounds
No food for these past three weeks
 And I
feels
    ver
           rry...
 
                 Mike Mc Namara
 
Obituary: Paul Armand Murad

Long-time member Paul Murad, who joined OLLI in 2011, passed away from glioblastoma on January 24. He loved taking classes at OLLI and will be missed by his friends there.

Paul graduated from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn in 1964 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. His first job was as an engineer at the Manned Spacecraft Center of National Aeronautics and Space Administration, working on the Apollo program. He also spent two years in the US Army as a first lieutenant and member of the 82nd Airborne Division, and later worked for the Defense Intelligence Agency.

There will be a memorial service Friday, February 4, at 7:00 (wake 6:00 – 9:00), at Money and King, 171 Maple Avenue W, Vienna, VA 22180. Funeral service is at noon on Saturday, February 5, at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church, 4125 Fessenden St NW, Washington, DC 20016. Livestream service: click here. The family asks attendees to wear masks, socially distance, and be vaccinated.

Further information is available at this link.
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, February 4 through February 14


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

Virginia Opera: Three Decembers
Sat, Feb 5, 8:00
Sun, Feb 6, 2:00
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: $110, $70, $40.
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 event listed below is free, the site above provides a link to register for free tickets to attend in-person, and another to watch livestreams.)

Christpher Jewell, bassoon; Emily Foster, oboe
Sun, Feb 13, 3:00
Harris Theater
Free
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

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

The Polish Wieniawski Philharmonic Orchestra
Sat, Feb 5, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
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 5 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Feb 7  1:15 pm Loudoun-Reston Program Planning Group Meeting
Tue Feb 8  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 9
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 6:00 pm		 Memoir and More Writing Group
Spanish Club
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Feb 10  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 11
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Feb 12 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Feb 15  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 16  4:00 pm Mah Jongg Club
Thu Feb 17
 		  4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 18
 
 
 		  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 19
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
 
About OLLI E-News

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

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

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

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ENews-January-28-2022

by

OLLI E-News January 28, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Board of Directors Meeting January 21

January 28, 2022


Editor of the Week: Sheri Siesseger
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Periodically check this link to stay up-to-date on winter term changes.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 4; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, February 1, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director
The Challenge of Recruiting and Retaining Members


By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director


Recently I was asked to say a few words about “your greatest challenge” in business. This type of question used to elicit very pat responses related to funding or facilities challenges. Although those two issues are still a constant, I’d have to say our biggest current challenge relates to membership. We’re in good shape, all things considered. However, especially since the start of the pandemic, OLLI has seen a dip in membership. I am hopeful this trend will be reversed in 2022. Helping us through the crisis, we must thank our true-blue group of “regulars” who rejoin OLLI year after year. These folks are our steadfast supporters, and we are endlessly grateful for their commitment.

Indeed, many of our members have rejoined after an absence from OLLI, as the innovation of remote access has opened a conduit for people who have moved or can no longer drive to enjoy our program. To those returning members we say, “Welcome back. We missed you!” Finally, our newest members have taken advantage of the promotional rate to join OLLI for the first time, and they are exploring and enjoying all the wonderful programs available in our amazing catalog. To them we offer a hearty, “Welcome to OLLI!”

As we continue to weather the storm of the pandemic, it’s important for all of us to remember that members are the lifeblood of OLLI, and the most effective means of recruitment is through members encouraging friends, family, and colleagues to learn of all that OLLI offers. Now, with the virtual option, anyone can join from anywhere! To that end, please share with all you know, your experiences at OLLI and how much OLLI means to you. Your personal testimonial is the best endorsement. Please include in your message resources such as OLLI’s website, catalog, and OLLI’s free YouTube channel “OLLI George Mason” and let folks know they can join now at the low $300.00 promotional rate for new members or members returning after a lapse of one year or more. Thank you for your efforts in overcoming our greatest challenge, and for your commitment to keeping OLLI strong.
Summary of the January Board of Directors Meeting


By Rita Way, Secretary


The regular meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually January 21, 2022.
 
OLLI President Paul Howard asked the Board to approve the appointment of Peter Ansoff to fill the position of David Talaber, who resigned in December. Peter was approved unanimously.
 
Bob Heyer volunteered to chair the Nominating Committee to solicit candidates for election to Board terms beginning in 2022.
 
Executive Director Jennifer Disano reported that construction continues at the Tallwood campus in Fairfax. Classroom improvements to provide hybrid instruction equipment are also in progress. Committee meetings and meetings with OLLI members are continuing at all three campuses.
 
Jennifer reported that currently the total membership is 1026 (1003 annual, 18 introductory and five lifetime members).
 
Two resolutions were approved by the Board:
 
Resolution 220121-01. Resolved, the OLLI Board of Directors approves official signers (board officers and executive director) to establish a Charity Charge Nonprofit Business Credit Card through Commerce Bank for use by the executive director and staff.
 
Resolution 220121-02. Resolved, the OLLI Board of Directors approves the final 2022 Budget.
Share Your Ideas at the Upcoming 2022 History Course Planning Session


By Bernie Oppel, History Program Planning Group Co-Chair
 

The History Program Planning Group will meet via ZOOM on February 3 at 1:15. Look for the Zoom login link in the OLLI Daily Schedule email. Program coordinators Shannon Kim Morrow and Nancy Klein will attend and help facilitate the meeting. The session will review the line-up of future OLLI history courses and propose new offerings for fall 2022 and beyond.
 
We encourage participation by all OLLI members. We welcome your suggestions for topics and possible instructors for future courses. We especially try to solicit multiple-session courses for presentation across the three OLLI campuses.
 
If you have always wanted to teach a history course at OLLI, now is the time to volunteer your knowledge and instructor skills. We are interested in courses in underrepresented areas, including China/Far East, South America, and the Middle East, as well as women’s history and social history topics. Also, starting in fall 2022, OLLI Loudoun will sponsor another in its series of “Year of” courses, with a focus on Germany. Vera Wentworth is coordinating course topics and instructors for this program.
  
The History Program Planning Group looks forward to your participation and suggestions on February 3. Thank you.
History Club to Explore Rise and Fall of the German Democratic Republic


By Elizabeth Lambert, History Club Coordinator


The first virtual meeting of the History Club for 2022 will take place on Wednesday, February 2 at 4:00. Bernie Oppel will be presenting on “The Other Germany: Rise and Fall of the German Democratic Republic (GDR).” As you know, Bernie is a popular OLLI teacher and a program planner for history courses.

Those of us of a certain age and/or who visited Berlin before the fall of the Berlin Wall have vivid memories of life in and around the GDR. Bernie is going to talk about the sudden fall of the GDR—how and why it collapsed after 40 years of existence. The short answer is that it could not compete economically with West Germany, but, as with all short answers, there is much more to it. Bernie will supply these important details, some of which may be surprising.

At this meeting we will also talk about the idea of dedicating a couple of History Club meetings a year to discussing a book of general historical interest which will be chosen a couple of months ahead of time. A member with some knowledge of the subject could lead the discussion. This would be a way of actively involving club members in the meeting. All members—and non-members who think this is an important change—please let your voice be heard.

Finally, don’t forget to sign up for the History Club when you register for classes each term. (Formerly a once-a-year task, now we must do it every term.)

I hope to see you all at the meeting Wednesday, February 2 at 4:00. It promises to be an interesting one. Remember—all OLLI members and their guests are invited to History Club meetings.
Staged Reading and Talkback, plus The Art of Love, Make for Free, Fabulous February Theater


By Norma Jean Reck, Theater Lovers’ Group Coordinator
 

As the song says, "The weather outside is frightful and the fire is so delightful, ..." but because we are OLLI with Mason's topnotch School of Theater (SOT) in our backyard and Zoom technology in our toolbox, we do have places to go, people to meet, and new aspects of theater to explore.

On Thursday, February 10, at 7:30 via Zoom, Mason's student actors and playwrights will present a Staged Reading and Talkback of their contributions to this year's 1,001 Plays. 1,001 Plays is an annual 10-minute-play festival by Global Partners worldwide, the first international play exchange of its kind. Each year, all the plays center around one theme. The theme this year is Trust. Universities participating in the play exchange are from South Korea, Kenya, China, Brazil, Canada, and Peru.
 
Co-directors Kristin Johnsen-Neshati, associate professor of theater, and Nicholas Kfoury Horner, program manager of SOT, began Mason's program several years ago. Students from each university write, perform, direct, and serve as dramaturg for original works exploring multiple perspectives on a single idea. The performances will be live online, followed by a talkback, allowing students and audience members to share, reflect and respond. For more information and to register for this free event, please go to this link by Monday, February 7, or RSVP to Amanda at [email protected].

On Sunday, February 20, from 4:00 to 5:00, the Friends of Theater at Mason will present The Art of Love: For Sentimental Reasons, under the able direction of Mason professors Erin Gardner and Joe Walsh. Feel free to invite family or friends to celebrate with you. Just sit back, relax with your favorite refreshment, and enjoy talented Mason theater students performing a classic Shakespearean love scene, sentimental music a la Duke Ellington, and more. The free musical program will be brought to you via Zoom. Details to follow. For this program, you can also RSVP to Amanda at [email protected].

The class 978 Tour of Capital One Hall, presented Friday, January 21, by Matea Magnano, was recorded. If you missed the class, you can find the recording under the Quick Links menu at the OLLI website. For a direct link to class recordings, click here. The password required to access class videos can be found on OLLI’s Daily Schedule email. For a virtual tour of the venue go to www.capitalonehall.com.
Spring-Term Literature Course Changed to Online
By Ellen Moody, Anglo-Indian Novels Instructor
Please note that there will be a change in the presentation of my course Anglo-Indian Novels: The Raj, its Aftermath & Diaspora. It will now be offered online. Everything else remains the same: time, day, subject matter.
  
In this class, we will read E.M. Forster's A Passage to India, Paul Scott's The Jewel in the Crown (Raj Quartet 1), and Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake. We'll explore a tradition of literature, colonialist and native cultural interactions, migrancy itself, gender faultlines, what we mean by our identity, belonging, and castes. We'll include in our discussions Anglo-Indian movies as a genre and see parts of and talk specifically about David Lean's Passage to India, the BBC's Jewel in the Crown, and Merchant-Ivory's Shakespeare Wallah. We'll take historical and contemporary perspectives on this rich material.
Performing Arts Center Proposed for Reston


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

A facility with a stage suitable for large-scale music and dance performances as well as other arts-related amenities has been proposed for Reston Town Center. For plan details, click here. This venue could potentially benefit OLLI’s visual and performing arts programs offered at the Reston campus.
   
This is your opportunity to express your opinion about the usefulness of this center. A series of Monday-evening community outreach meetings to assess the need for such a facility will be held by architectural firm Grimm + Parker from February to April as follows:
  • February 14, Kickoff meeting
  • February 28, Performing Arts
  • March 14, Visual Arts
  • March 28, Arts Education, Schools, Equity/Opportunity Neighborhoods
  • April 4, General Wrap-up.
Meetings will start at 6:30, the first three at the Reston Community Center in Hunters Woods and the last two via Zoom.
 
To RSVP for meetings, email [email protected]. Include your name, home address, email address, and the date(s) of the meeting(s) you wish to attend. Please identify yourself as an OLLI member. Links to online meetings will be sent to those requesting them.
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Filaments of Light and Support 

The lowly mushroom
nestled in the ground
has filaments extending
for miles that can even
break down solid rock.

During times of trouble and stress
Family, church, and community colleagues
reach out and help those who need it
to bring meals, to help shop
and provide filaments of light and support
when things are dark.

We were facing limited mobility
And taking care of our son out of the hospital.
Our grandson came
down from Pittsburgh to be a designated driver
for a week
and was a source of light and laughter.

Our daughter came up from Texas
for another week
and spent the whole day
with my son in the emergency room.

Our church friends helped with shopping
and brought by support meals--
Even those who did not us know us very well.

In times of troubles
They appeared all around us
with filaments of light and support.

Thank you all.

                             — Jack A. Underhill

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Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, January 28 through February 7


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.
 
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Saturday, Jan 29, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $75, $60, $45.

Virginia Opera: Three Decembers
Sat, Feb 5, 8:00
Sun, Feb 6, 2:00
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: $110, $70, $40.
Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

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

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

The Polish Wieniawski Philharmonic Orchestra
Sat, Feb 5, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
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 Jan 29 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Feb 1  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 2
 		  4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
History Club
Thu Feb 3
 		 1:15 pm 
4:30 pm		 History Program Planning Group Meeting
Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 4
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Sat Feb 5 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Feb 7  1:15 pm Loudoun & Reston Program Planning Group Meeting
Tue Feb 8  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Feb 9
 
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm
 6:00 pm		 Memoir and More Writing Group
Spanish Club
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Feb 10  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Feb 11
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Feb 12 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

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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Phone: (703) 503-3384
Email: [email protected]

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