Illustrations from John Quinn’s courseI Was There,fall term 2024, featuring the perspectives of OLLI memberswho were present at significant historical events
By Camille Hodges, Board Member and Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-Chair
In October, Americans observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month by paying tribute to the accomplishments of the men and women with disabilities whose work helps keep the nation’s economy strong and by reaffirming their commitment to ensure equal opportunity for all citizens. This effort to educate the public about the issues related to disability and employment began in 1945, when Congress enacted Public Law 176, declaring the first week of October each year as National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week. In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. Some 25 years later, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Re: US Dept of Labor.
National Italian-American Heritage month was first recognized by the United States Congress in October 1989 as a tribute to all Italian-Americans' contributions to our nation, and to highlight the cultural impact of the Italian-American community. Re: City of Boston.
World Mental Health Day is October 10. October is also National Cookie month! There’s nothing better for your mental health than a chocolate chip cookie or two still warm from the oven!
By Toni Acton, Board Member and Member Services Committee Chair
Are you new and still trying to meet other OLLI members? Do you still have questions and don’t know who to ask? Are you a long-time OLLI member and miss seeing people in person as you take most of your classes on Zoom? Then join us at the informal Grab ‘n’ Gab Coffee on Friday, October 11 at 10:00 at Tallwood. Coffee, pastry, and great conversation—what’s better on a Friday morning?! Register for Event 1101 either online or by contacting the Registrar’s office.
Join OLLI Theater Lovers for Sondheim and Theater Potpourri Class this October
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group
Sondheim Tribute Revue
On Sunday, October 13, The Theater Lovers' Group and our guests will go to Creative Cauldron in Falls Church to see the 2pm matinee performance of Sondheim Tribute Review. Eight standout singers will take us on a scintillating musical journey featuring more than 20 titles from the Sondheim Song Book - Into the Woods, A Little Night Music, the recent Tony Award winner Merrily We Roll Along, and many more of your favorites. To purchase your tickets, which are $47, phone 703-436-9948. Be sure to tell them you are with OLLI Theater Lover's' Group (TLG).
We will lunch at Ireland's Four Provinces at 12 noon and have separate checks. Parking is free at the restaurant and in the garage to the left of the theater.
Theater Potpourri Class
Where else can you chat with a local playwright, attend a masterclass in singing, revel in a one-on-one performance of a leading Lady, and enjoy stellar performances by Mason's talented theater students of a hit play - all from the comfort of your own sofa? Just go online and sign up for F414Z Theater and Film Potpourri class, which will be on Tuesdays, 11:50 - 1:15, from October 22 to November 12.
Coming soon
TLG is planning to attend performances of Shawshank Redemption at NextStop Theater, Fiddler on the Roof at Reston's Center Stage, and 110 in the Shade at Mason's Center for the Arts. Stay tuned for details.
Meetings are being planned for those members (and guests) who will be going to Blackfriars Theater in Staunton November 1-3 and for the group going to New York November 19-20. We will get together to coordinate, discuss details of each trip, answer questions, etc. More to follow soon.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Team Bloch is proposing the topic Alcohol for the Wednesday October 9 conversation.
October 9: Alcohol
Our discussion on October 9 will focus on Alcohol: non-alcoholic beverages, abstinence, healthy habits for seniors, and Sober October vs. Come Over October.
Our social conversations are held every Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 via Zoom. The sessions are fully participatory, and all are welcome to join us. You can find the Zoom link in the daily schedule sent out by the OLLI office every Wednesday morning. There is no sign up required; just log in to the 24/7 Chat Line.
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A, Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
Join us for our upcoming visit with our Luxembourg colleagues and two events that are FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
++++++++++++++++++
DIFFERDANGE SCHOOL OF MUSIC PANEL DISCUSSION
"Jazz in Europe: From Luxembourg's Point of View "
Wednesday, Oct 9, 12:30 Harris Theatre
Free and Open to the Public
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is a tiny country in the heart of Europe, easily overlooked due to its small size and population (670,000 inhabitants). But it also boasts a flourishing music scene as well as a very central location, keeping it well connected with Germany, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Learn about the experience of living in western Europe as a musician: the pros and cons, the music, the backgrounds, the anecdotes, expectation versus reality—all told from the perspective of the Differdange music school faculty, whose members have studied jazz in European cities like Brussels, Amsterdam, or others and are now based in Luxembourg.
++++++++++++++++++
MASON JAZZ FACULTY / LUXEMBOURG CONCERT
Thursday, Oct 10, 8:00 Center For The Arts
Free and Open to the Public
Faculty from the Differdange School of Music in Luxembourg team up with the George Mason University Jazz faculty for an unforgettable evening of Jazz standards and beyond. This is the culmination of a cultural exchange between these two institutions of higher learning, celebrating music education and performance. Click this link for more information.
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket pageor the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this linkto stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website,Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
Friends of the Center for the Arts Artists in Conversation: Latin Social Dance Workshop with Ballet Hispánico
Fri, Oct 4, 7:00
Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center
3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030
Admission: FREE, but registration required; click here.
Ballet Hispánico
Sat, Oct 5, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Franz Schubert: The Soulful and the Sublime
Sun, Oct 13, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus) Prince William Little Theatre: Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville, A Sherlock Holmes Mystery
Fri, Oct 4, 8:00
Sat, Oct 5, 8:00
Sun, Oct 6, 2:00
Fri, Oct 11, 8:00
Sat, Oct 12, 8:00
Sun, Oct 13, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25 Adult, $20 Senior.
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Jeff Hamilton
Sat, Oct 5, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion with guest artist Jeff Hamilton begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert
Sun, Oct 6, 4:00
A family-friendly craft activity will take place in the Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Hall prior to this performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
Manassas Chorale: Salute to Heroes and Heroines
Sat, Oct 12, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $25, $23.
Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra: Not all Heroes Wear Capes, But Some Do
Sun, Oct 13, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior.
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week, but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Oct 5
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Oct 7
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Oct 8
1:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Dabbling Artists Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Bridge Club
Tallwood Book Club
Spanish Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Oct 10
1:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Oct 11
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Dabbling Artists Club
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Grab’n’Gab Coffee Klatch
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Oct 12
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Oct 14
4:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Oct 15
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Oct 16
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
1:30 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Oct 17
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Oct 18
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
2:30 pm
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Club – online
Sat Oct 19
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
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, Tom Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected]. Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words. Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.
What Really Goes on in Presidential and Other Political Campaigns?
By Ken Reid, OLLI Instructor
We are saturated with day-to-day media and social media coverage about the Trump/Harris race and many congressional races, but what really goes on inside the campaigns? How do candidates mobilize volunteers and resources to win? These and other topics will be discussed in two sessions on Wednesdays, October 2 and 9, from 2:15 until 3:40, exploring the upcoming political campaigns.
In this two-part class, Ken Reid, who served 10 years in local elected office in Loudoun County (elected four times) and is a veteran volunteer in presidential campaigns, will discuss: Part I, October 2: The impact of third parties and senate/house races in battleground states; Part II, October 9: How specific voting blocs are likely being targeted by the Trump and Harris campaigns. This is NOT a class about issues, personalities, scandals and who's up or down, but about the tactics the campaigns are deploying to win on November 5.
The instructor has coordinated volunteers for several local, state, and presidential campaigns since 2000, including the last seven presidential elections. He authored the books The Six Secrets to Winning ANY Local Election and Navigating Elected Office Once You Win!
This is an OLLI class (F712/F712Z) with the meeting URL at this link; meeting ID is 83595656143 and passcode (use no spaces) is 012777. For in-person attendance, go to Tallwood classroom TA-1. The class is not in the catalog, but you may register for it at the member portal.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Team Bloch is proposing the topic Ambiguous Book Endings for the conversation on Wednesday, October 2.
Our discussion on October 2 will focus on participants' preferences for book conclusions: do you prefer that the author neatly spell out the ending of the book or would you rather have the author leave some doubt about what happens next? In other words, how much ambiguity do you welcome—or even tolerate?
Some readers like to have the whole plot, character motivation, and action put forward in a literal manner, while others prefer to fill in their own portrayal and (creative) subjective endings. Also, how do you feel about book series, where the same characters take part in a sequel? Or several sequels? Do you like or dislike these?
Our social conversations are held every Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 via Zoom. The sessions are fully participatory, and all are welcome to join us. You can find the Zoom link in the daily schedule sent out by the OLLI office every Wednesday morning. There is no sign up required; just log into the 24/7 Chat Line.
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator of Theater Lovers' Group
During OLL's upcoming Fall term, all of OLLI's members are invited to share in The Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) events, which include:
1. A Theater and Film Potpourri class (see page 13 in catalog) Tuesdays, October 22 to November 12. 11:50-1:15.
Classes will include live performances featuring Mason's Maestro Joe Walsh and talented theater students performing songs from 110 in the Shade (which TLG will see Friday, November 1, tickets $15); Catie Flye, the lead in Waverly Gallery, who will perform music of Joyce Grenfall; Mason's Edrie Means Weekly, who will address musical theater; and Ellen Price, local playwright who wrote The Heiress of Hawtrey Hall, which TLG saw in May.
2. An overnight trip to American Shakespeare Center Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, Va., Friday to Sunday, from November 1 to 3. Tickets are $45/person and payment is due ASAP. For more information and paying for tickets, email Jean Tatalias [email protected].
3. An overnight coach trip to New York City, Tuesday/Wednesday, November 19/20. Dble: $525. Stay at Marriott on Times Square. New York your way! See a Broadway show or two, go to Radio City Music Hall or United Nations or museums or just shop, sight-see and dine at a fabulous restaurant or deli. For more information, email Norma at [email protected]
4. Two plays: A 2pm matinee to see Waverly Gallery at 1stStage on Sunday, September 29. Ten Tickets available for $25/person - phone 703-854-1856; and a 2pm matinee at Creative Cauldron on Sunday, October 13 to see A Sondheim Tribute Revue. Tickets are $47 - phone 703-436-9948.
5. NEW! Mark your calendars. On Wednesday, December 4, we go to Mason's Fenwick Library for a tour of a theatrical exhibit "The Change We Want to See" Artists and Social Transformation, plus a tour of theatrical items in Mason's Special Collections,
Editor’s note: This article is 300 words (out of 330 submitted by the author). The remaining 30 words may be viewed at this link. At the author’s request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
Literature, Languages, and Theater: Teach or Plan Programs at OLLI
By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Theater, and
Writing/Languages Group Co-Coordinator
As part of a volunteer organization, many OLLI members have joined the ranks of our instructors or contributed to our program planning. The Literature, Language, and Theater (LLT) program planning group is seeking both.
Perhaps you are a former teacher missing the classroom experience or have a passion—no need for formal expertise—you would like to share. You may also know individuals in your community who would be good OLLI instructors. Or, if you have a topic you would like to have taught and may know of possible instructors, share it with us and we can contact them. For example, we need a Spanish instructor and also would like to expand our language offerings, including German and Italian.
The LLT program planning group is also inviting members to contribute to our LLT program planning process. In coordination with staff, we meet several times a year to review and plan course offerings for each term. Planning begins at least six months in advance and sometimes earlier. Members are invited to our semi-annual meetings in June and December. They are
advertised in the E-News, or you can contact me and I’ll add you to our email list.
If you would like more information about teaching OLLI literature, language, theater, or writing programs, please feel free to contact me or any of the other committee co-chairs below:
History Club Meeting Wednesday, October 2 By Doug Snoeyenbos, History Club Coordinator
The History Club will have its first virtual meeting of the year at 4:00 on Wednesday, October 2. The presenter will be Daniel Cain, who will address “The Collapse of the Soviet Union.” Daniel will examine the forces, individuals, and events of the Gorbachev era that were crucial to the demise of the USSR, and to the independence of the former Soviet republics and its former Warsaw Pact allies of Eastern Europe.
Daniel has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history and political science from Ohio University, and also did post-graduate study at the Indiana University Russian and East European Institute (REEI), before moving to the Washington, D.C. area. He spent more than 30 years as an intelligence analyst for the federal government, including nearly 20 years at the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency.
Tallwood Book Club By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator
The Tallwood Book Club will meet in person on campus in October and November. We are assigned to the Cottage for meetings but can meet outdoors on the parking lot island if the weather permits.
Our meeting on October 9 will be at 1:30 and we will be discussing Old Filth by Jane Gardam. The November meeting will discuss Horse by Geraldine Brooks, also at 1:30. We will continue to choose books for December, January, and February, and perhaps March and April.
The September 2024 Photo of the Month theme was Variations on Your Theme. OLLI Photo Club members were invited to submit two photos varying on a factor -- e.g., color versus black-and-white. We selected Cookie (Ellen) Hilert's photo(s) "Egret at Huntley Meadows," 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 Edward Marion, Photography Club Co-Coordinators
The large basket
of soft balls of yarn
sits by the fireplace
unknitted and largely ignored
even by curious cats.
A collection that reflects
the multihued threads of travel -
whites and grays of Icelandic skies
blues of Norwegian waters
yellows of a Nova Scotia fall
and, of course, moss greens of Ireland.
Peeking through is a rich bronze
flecked with reds and golds
from Hungary but irresistible
in a Scottish shop.
I once felt pressured
to create wearables
for head and neck
but it never seemed these fibers
would be as beautiful in any other form
so I let go of that ambition
for the rich colors of their memories.
–Jacqueline Davey
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket pageor the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this linkto stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website,Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
An Evening with Lea Salonga
Sat, Sep 28, 8:30
Concert Hall
Admission: $100, $75, $50.
Friends of the Center for the Arts Artists in
Conversation: Latin Social Dance Workshop with Ballet
Hispánico
Fri, Oct 4, 7:00
Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center
3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030
Admission: FREE, but registration required; click here.
Ballet Hispánico
Sat, Oct 5, 8:00
Concert Hall
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus) Kollywood Night (in Nepali language)
Sat, Sep 28, 5:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.
Hylton Family Series: Mario the Maker Magician
Sun, Sep 29, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $15.
Prince William Little Theatre: Ken Ludwig’s
Baskerville, A Sherlock Holmes Mystery
Fri, Oct 4, 8:00
Sat, Oct 5, 8:00
Sun, Oct 6, 2:00
Fri, Oct 11, 8:00
Sat, Oct 12, 8:00
Sun, Oct 13, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25 Adult, $20 Senior.
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Jeff Hamilton
Sat, Oct 5, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion with guest artist Jeff Hamilton
begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert
Sun, Oct 6, 4:00
A family-friendly craft activity will take place in the
Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Hall prior to this
performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week, but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Sep 28
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Sep 30
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Oct 1
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
History Club – online
Spanish Club
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Oct 3
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Oct 4
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:30 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Dance Club
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Sat Oct 5
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Oct 7
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Oct 8
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Dabbling Artists Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Bridge Club
Tallwood Book Club
Spanish Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Oct 10
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Oct 11
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Dabbling Artists Club
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Grab’n’ Gab Coffee Klatch
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
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, Tom Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected]. Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words. Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.
Tom Manteuffel, Retired Cybersecurity Engineer and Frequent OLLIInstructor, Gave an Interesting and Informative Presentation: The Secret LifeofOwls, July 29, 2024
What Vaccinations are Recommended for Seniors, and Which Ones Should I Get?
By Michele Romano, MD, Health and Safety Advisory Chair, Suresh Mohla, MD, Health and Safety Advisory Committee Member, and Richard Crawford, OLLI Treasurer and Board Member
Seniors should ensure they are up to date with several key vaccinations to protect against serious diseases. The following vaccines are highly recommended for individuals aged 65 and older. By keeping up with these vaccinations, you can significantly reduce your risk of serious health complications and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Medicare covers most recommended vaccines.
Essential Vaccines for Seniors
Influenza Vaccine: An annual flu shot is crucial as seniors are at higher risk for complications from the flu. Flu vaccine before Halloween should cover you for the busy holiday season.
Pneumococcal Vaccine: This vaccine protects against pneumonia and other pneumococcal diseases. It is recommended that seniors should have this vaccine. Please check with your primary-care physician (PCP) to see which one is best for you.
Shingles Vaccine: Recommended for adults aged 60 and older, the shingles vaccine helps prevent shingles, a painful rash that can lead to long-term complications. Shingles vaccine is given in two doses, so please make sure to take both doses.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: Seniors should receive the Tdap vaccine if they haven't had it in the past. Also, please get a routine tetanus booster shot every 10 years to maintain protection against tetanus.
COVID-19 Vaccine: Staying current with COVID‑19 vaccinations is also essential for seniors, as they are at increased risk for severe illness from the virus. It is recommended to get the vaccine before Halloween, so you are covered for the busy holiday season.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine: RSV can lead to serious respiratory illness in older adults. The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for all adults over age 75, as well as adults over 60 who are at increased risk.
Please click this link to see CDC adult immunization recommendations for further information on all vaccines, including frequency.
What vaccinations have I received? If you are a Virginia resident you may submit a Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Immunization Record Request Form. However, it is important to let your PCP know all immunizations you receive outside their office as they can update your medical records, and they will be available on your patient portal 24/7. Your PCP should also be able to access the VDH website via the provider code and update it.
Click this Adult Immunization Schedule link for more information on all vaccines.
What does Medicare cover?
Medicare covers a variety of standard immunization shots under Part B and Part D.
To get your vaccines covered, it's best to get them from an in-network pharmacy or have your doctor's office bill your Part D plan directly. Talk to your doctor about which vaccines are recommended for you based on your age, health conditions, and lifestyle.
Medicare Part B covers the following standard immunization shots with no out-of-pocket costs:
Influenza (flu) vaccine
COVID-19 vaccine
Pneumococcal vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccine
Part B also covers vaccines needed if you're accidentally exposed to a harmful virus or bacteria, such as a tetanus shot for a puncture wound.
Medicare Part D covers most other commercially available vaccines needed to prevent illness, including:
Shingles vaccine
Tdap vaccine
RSV vaccine
Please discuss any questions or concerns with your Healthcare Provider.
Hold onto your cards, OLLI Mason has shuffled the staff deck. Make note of these changes so you can work with a full hand going forward!The changes are reflected in the staff listings in the fall-term OLLI catalog.
Meg Przybylski is the new registrar. Having worked for eight years as a site assistant, she is well versed in OLLI Mason operating principles and has interacted with many of you in classes and at events. She will now handle anything involving registration, membership, and related payments. Email: [email protected].
Shannon Morrow has moved to Washington State. Have no fear, she will continue her excellent work as the lead program planner! Please direct all class-related questions to her. Email: [email protected].
Susan Job has joined the program planning team after working for six years as the registrar. Working alongside Shannon Morrow, Susan will handle trips, socials, clubs, and the development of various single-session classes. Email: [email protected].
Nancy Klein has moved to North Carolina. She will continue as the communications associate but will no longer be part of the program planning team. Direct questions about E-blasts, the Communicator, or outreach efforts to her. Email: [email protected].
Finally, we have two new site assistants joining the OLLI staff to provide audio-visual support. We welcome Griffyn Caires and Pranav Rathore!
By Emily Roudebush, Board Member/Vice President and Debby Mossburg, Outreach Committee Chair
Do you wish there was an easier way to share about OLLI with other seniors in your residential community? Or do you take part in programs at a senior center or other senior-based group? Do you love your time with OLLI, and often find yourself talking about it with family, friends and neighbors, but still have trouble answering fully if someone asks, “What is OLLI, exactly?” or “Why shouldI join OLLI?”
OLLI Outreach can help! We have complete, up-to-date presentations, all ready to go, that detail the programs, activities and benefits available through OLLI. We love OLLI, too, and we’re happy to present to residence communities, senior centers, and other senior groups about all that OLLI has to offer. These presentations are a great way to spread the word and encourage new people to join the fun at OLLI! A presentation can be as short as 10 minutes, as part of another activity, such as a luncheon or meeting, or it can be offered as a stand-alone event, with more content and time for questions. So, if you live in a community with potential OLLI members, or you’re a member of a senior group that would like to learn more about OLLI, please send an email to Debby Mossburg at [email protected], with Outreach in the Subject line, to learn more about scheduling an OLLI Outreach presentation.
Thanks!
Editor’s note: This article appeared in a prior edition of E‑News. It is repeated here to encourage members to help OLLI in its outreach efforts, and to remind you that Board members and the Outreach Committee are ready to support you in doing so.
By Toni Acton, Board Member and Member Services Committee Chair
This fall, we have more than 65 new members joining us in our classes, clubs, and social activities. They will be easily recognizable by the green dot on their name tag (many of you may remember the red dot from years ago). When you see a new member, please welcome them with a big smile and a warm welcome. Remember, you were a “newbie” once!
The fall Kick-Off Coffee and Activities Fair is Thursday, September 19 at 10:00 at Tallwood. This is a great way to see old friends, meet new members, and learn more about the various clubs and committees we have at OLLI. Register for Event 1204 either online or by contacting the Registrar’s office.
F404Z: 250 Years of African‑American Poetry. This course will include occasional visits by working Black poets to read their poetry and talk about the influence of earlier Black poets on their work. For the October 9th session, we are pleased to welcome Steven Leyva.
Steven Leyva was born in New Orleans and raised in Houston. His poems have appeared or are forthcoming in 2 Bridges Review, Scalawag, Nashville Review, jubilat, Vinyl, and Prairie Schooner. He is a Cave Canem fellow and author of the chapbook Low Parish. Steven holds an MFA from the University of Baltimore, where he is an associate professor in the Klein Family School of Communications Design. Click this link for a message from Steven.
Wednesday Team Bloch Conversation—September 18 and 25
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
September 18: Movies
One of our participants requested that we talk about movies. Two discussion points: we can make suggestions on films that we recently enjoyed (streamed or in the movie theater); we can also more broadly discuss the future of movies in general – e.g., Are movie theaters likely to survive? Are our films too skewed to a teenage audience? We will address the movie situation on September 18.
September 25: Technology and Foreign Languages
On September 25, we will probe the intersection of technology and foreign languages. For example, with translation apps at our fingertips, do we need to teach foreign languages in our schools? With Google on our computers, translation from French to English is almost automatic. How many of us like to read literature in its original, non-English language format? What is ahead for AI and translation? Or, in disagreement, do we like to show courtesy when we travel to another country that doesn't use English as the native tongue? Will we miss the nuances if everything is translated by a computer? Pros and cons, what is your opinion?
As usual, we will meet on Zoom at 4:00 each Wednesday afternoon. Everyone is invited to join us; no sign‑up is required. Please join our conversation, supported by the 24/7 OLLI Chat Line.
Upcoming Events for all OLLI Theater Lovers' and Our Guests
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator Theater Lovers' Group
What an embarrassment of riches we have coming up this 2024-2025 theater season. We'll begin with seeing The Waverly Gallery at 1stStage, then Sondheim Tribute Revue at Creative Cauldron, 110 in the Shade at Mason's School of Theater and a trip to American Shakespeare Center Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, Virginia. Of course, we are looking forward to NYC Your Way, an overnight bus trip to Broadway on November 19/20 - some space still available.
On Sunday, September 29 at 2pm, we will see The Waverly Gallery at 1stStage. Ten tickets for $25 each have been reserved under my name. After that, tickets are $40 and $55. To purchase your ticket, phone 703-854-1856 ASAP. Tell them you are with OLLI Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) and email me when you have purchased your ticket, so I know how to contact you. We'll have lunch before the show, so we are driving while it's light out. The Tony award winning play is about Gladys, an aging matriarch of the Green family, who has run a barely profitable art gallery in a Greenwich Village hotel for years. The owner wants to replace the gallery with a coffee shop. The irascible Gladys becomes erratic and a cause for concern for her family. We can relate to this.
On Sunday, October 13 at 2pm, we will see Sondheim Tribute Revue at Creative Cauldron. This not-to-be-missed musical journey celebrates the work of Stephen Sondheim, a legendary composer and lyricist, who had a profound influence on Broadway history. We will have a group rate of $47. Phone 703-436-9948 and tell them you are with OLLI's TLG. Email me when you have your ticket, so I can contact you. Lunch before the show.
On Sunday, November 3 at 2pm, we will see 110 in the Shade performed by Mason's
Editor’s note: This article is 300 words (out of 425 submitted by the author). The remaining 125 words may be viewed at this link. At the author’s request, all words (including in the title) are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
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, September 21, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Expert Panel: Frank Fota, Tom Gutnick, Gabe Goldberg
Our experts will address your computer and related technology questions – printers, smartphones, connected gadgets. Please help get things started – submit questions and issues via email to: [email protected].
Learn in 30: Smart Watches and Hard Fall Detection—Presented by John Krout
Apple and Samsung smart watches include a safety feature called Hard Fall Detection. After my Samsung watch falsely reported to both 911 and my daughter the registered nurse that I had fallen, I found out by research that both brands of watches offer this feature, and on both, the feature has bugs.
This presentation will explain how I experienced a false fall detection and report of my "fall." It was doubly surprising because, at that time, I did not know hard fall detection was enabled. Later, I learned that for my Samsung brand watch, it is indeed disabled by default. I had bought a refurbished watch, so that may be why it was enabled for me. The presentation will also show various ways I considered to minimize the chance of a false hard fall detection report, and the two ways I chose to use. The methods I use have prevented a false report for many weeks.
John Krout is a frequent presenter at our meetings on a wide range of computer, technology and photography topics, and author of many articles for the PATACS Posts newsletter. He also presents for national APCUG Wednesday Workshops and Saturday Safaris. In addition, John contributes articles to APCUG's library of shared newsletter content.
See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 and are now due for 2024 (and 2023, if you didn’t get around to paying last year!)—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.
To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45, please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 045284 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 897 3557 7784 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
Why is it quite impossible
to kill a pot of mint
or a bed of mint if you prefer?
It will rise again, phoenix-like
a variation on whack-a-mole
to flourish as before,
despite burning by summer sun
or dehydration through neglect.
Programmed through generations
for survival, runners beneath soil’s surface
are its ticket to life. Designed for longevity
its superpower remains on the growing list
of matters I cannot explain.
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket pageor the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this linkto stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website,Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
George Mason School of Theater: The Originals! 2024
Fri, Sep 13, 8:00
Sat, Sep 14, 2:00 and 8:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, TheaterSpace
Admission: $20 Adult, $10 Senior.
School of Music: Grand Piano Celebration 2024
Sun, Sep 22, 3:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior.
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week, but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Sep 14
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Sep 16
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Program Planning Committee
Poetry Writing Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Sep 17
1:00 pm
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
How to Zoom – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Sep 18
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
12:00 noon
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Staff Meeting
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Sep 19
10:00 am
11:50 am
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
OLLI Kick-off Coffee
All the News – online
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Sep 20
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:30 pm
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Sat Sep 21
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Sep 23
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Sep 24
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Dabbling Artists Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Theater Lover’s Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Sep 26
11:50 am
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Sep 27
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
12:00 noon
Dabbling Artists Club
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Photography Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
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, Laurie Schad, Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Tom Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected]. Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words. Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.
The OLLI fall term is September 23 through November 15; fall term registration is under way and continues throughout the term.
Plan to attend ARTS by George on Saturday, September 28 at Mason; for more information, click this link.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, September 13; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, September 10, at 6:00.
It’s Game On!
By Marilyn Harriman, Diversions Chair
It’s game on! Come to Tallwood campus on Tuesday, September 10, 10:00-1:00, for a fun morning of entertainment and camaraderie with Debby Mossburg and me. We’ll play fun and easy table games, and at the end of the morning, awards and prizes will be announced and presented to the winners. After the event, participants are invited to continue the fun at the new Coyote Grill on Main Street in Fairfax.
Additional details about the event are in the fall catalog.
To join in the game fun, register for event 1201. To attend the lunch at Coyote Grill, register for event 1202.
There is no cost for the Tallwood Game event. Transportation and the cost of lunch are on your own.
This is an excellent opportunity to get revved up for the fall term and reconnect with your OLLI friends!
Mason’s “History of the Family” Course Invites OLLI Members to Share with University Students
By Camille Hodges, Board Member and Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-Chair
Intergenerational conversations not only provide a pathway of understanding the history of OLLI members but also encouraging Mason students to research and appreciate the history of their own families. Both students and OLLI members encountered an experience like no other as they engaged in Mason’s fall 2023 Honors course, “History of the Family,” taught by Dr. Spencer Crew. During the July 30, 2024, Humanities and Social Sciences OLLI class, Dr. Crew and his team of presenters discussed the rich rewards of intergenerational dialogue, which elicited many emotional responses from those who attended.
The Honors course “History of the Family” is available once again during the fall 2024 term which begins on September 26. If you would like to participate by sharing your family history and encouraging Mason students as they research theirs, please contact Dr. Crew via email at [email protected]. The in-person student interview process is required but will not begin until later in the fall and may also be conducted via Zoom. Testimonies have shown that this is a personal experience of tremendous value.
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in a previous E-News issue. It is repeated here to encourage members to participate in Dr. Crew’s “History of the Family” course in the fall.
By Christine Narbut, Art and Music Program Planning Group Co‑Chair
Program planning for the fall term has resulted in some amazing choices for OLLI members that will engage the creative brain. Check out the following classes in the current fall catalog, which can awaken your music gene, recall memories of times past, and present an opportunity to sing along.
F104Z From Tin Pan Alley to Motown: Music’s Intersection Between Entertainment, Politics, and Social Justice – Presented by Michael Agron
F105 Singing for Fun – Instructors: Gayle Parsons, Linda Harber, Sophia Elberti, and Linda Gordon
The offerings below may inspire you and cause you to consider learning how to paint or nudge you back to painting again.
F110Z Something Always Comes Out of Innovation: 1874 and the Birth of Impressionism – presented by Chris With
1206 National Gallery of Art: Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment– field trip coordinated by Bonnie Nelson and Lucy Martel
OLLI can help you find and nurture your creative side. Consider the opportunities below.
F103 Watercolor Painting: Building Additional Skills Beyond Novice– Instructor: Chris Narbut. If you have always had a desire to try painting, here is your opportunity to experience the joy of creating art in a supportive environment with guidance from experienced instructors.
Dabbling Artists Club – Coordinator Chris Narbut; meeting every other week on Wednesdays, artists who dabble in watercolor, pastels, pen and ink, drawing and sketching, or other media meet in person and on Zoom to share ideas and helpful hints with each other. The club is a source of ideas and encouragement for each other and the OLLI community.
The Art and Music Program Planning Group meets quarterly to plan for sessions and to recruit instructors for upcoming terms. Spring term plans are underway. If you are interested in making a suggestion for a class or in teaching, or have contacts in the art and music community who might be interested in teaching, consider joining the Art and Music Program Planning Group. Please contact Chris Narbut at [email protected] or Linda Harber at [email protected].
Wednesday Team Bloch Conversation for September 4 and September 11
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Team Bloch is proposing topics for the first two weeks in September, before fall term begins.
September 4: Unbelievable Events in Your Life
Team Bloch is taking a personal week off the first week of September, but we are delighted to welcome a volunteer moderator this week, Elizabeth Hammer (an honorary Team Bloch member!). The topic chosen by Elizabeth for September 4: Tell us about something that has happened to you that you find to be unbelievable. It can be in any category, domain, or sector.
September 11: Birthday Celebrations
Birthday joys provide, in some sense, age-related anticipation (pun intended). Either you really look forward to them (usually when you are under 22), or you dread them (over 55). Where do you fall on this emotional spectrum? Happily anticipating your next birthday, neutral in feeling, or do you wish everyone would ignore the big day?
How do you typically celebrate your birthday? Or do you even celebrate? And if so, and you could have your wishes granted, would you alter the usual predictable celebration? Feel free to share; nothing spills out beyond the Wednesday Conversation session participants.
Our conversations are held every Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 via Zoom. The sessions are fully participatory, and all are welcome to join us. You can find the Zoom link in the Daily Schedule sent out by the OLLI office every Wednesday morning. There is no signup required; just log in to the 24/7 Chat Line.
For tickets for either Center for the Arts Concert Hall (CFA) or Hylton Center, call 1-888-945-2468. You can also buy tickets online through the event calendar (see links below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see the CFA ticket pageor the Hylton Center ticket purchase page.
Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of information on interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just sign up at this linkto stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website,Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
George Mason School of Theater: The Originals! 2024
Fri, Sep 13, 8:00
Sat, Sep 14, 2:00 and 8:00
deLaski Performing Arts Building, A105, TheaterSpace
Admission: $20 Adult, $10 Senior.
Please note:OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number(except clubs; you may need to check theOLLI calendarand daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university'scoronavirus websitefor official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Aug 31
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Sep 2
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue Sep 3
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Sep 4
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Sep 5
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Sep 6
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
3:30 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Sat Sep 7
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Sep 9
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Reading Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Sep 10
9:00 am
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Game Day Bash
Chair Yoga and More – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Sep 11
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
Dabbling Artists Club
Bridge Club
Tallwood Book Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Sep 12
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Sep 13
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
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, Laurie Schad,
Paul Van Hemel Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Tom Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus 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. Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.
Dr. Andrew Siegel, ophthalmologist trained at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in glaucoma subspecialty, discussedhow to prevent glaucoma from taking away your vision—February 13, 2024
OLLI Personal Computer User Group 3rd Saturday meeting is August 17 (tomorrow) in person and via Zoom; check the OLLI daily-schedule email for link and other information.
The OLLI fall term is September 23 through November 15; fall-term registration begins August 20 and continues throughout the term.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, August 30; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, August 27, at 6:00.
Mason’s “History of the Family” Course Invites OLLI Members to Share with University Students
By Camille Hodges, Board Member and Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-Chair
Intergenerational conversations not only provide a pathway of understanding the history of OLLI members but also encourage Mason students to research and appreciate the history of their own families. Both students and OLLI members encountered an experience like no other as they engaged in Mason’s fall 2023 Honors course, “History of the Family,” taught by Dr. Spencer Crew. During the July 30, 2024, Humanities and Social Sciences OLLI class, Dr. Crew and his team of presenters discussed the rich rewards of intergenerational dialogue, which elicited many emotional responses from those who attended.
The Honors course “History of the Family” is available once again during the fall 2024 term which begins on September 26. If you would like to participate by sharing your family history and encourage Mason students as they research theirs, please contact Dr. Crew via email at [email protected]. The in‑person student interview process is required but will not begin until later in the fall and may also be conducted via Zoom. Testimonies have shown that this is a personal experience of tremendous value.
Your Invitation to Join the OLLI Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group
By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events
Program Planning Group Co-Chair
Where do great OLLI programs originate? They come from our OLLI members/friends and that includes you! We are always looking for great ideas that support the interests of our OLLI members as well as our community. The Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group focuses on all social sciences as well as topics that are of current public interest and may not be covered in other OLLI-scheduled news programs. This is because our programming is created weeks in advance for each term. You can provide your ideas/suggestions by joining the HSS/CE Program Planning Group Meeting via the Zoom link shared in OLLI E-News.
If you are interested or have a friend/neighbor/ colleague whose ideas would support our HSS/CE program planning, please invite them to attend our Zoom meeting on August 29 at 10:00. The Zoom link will be available via OLLI E-News a few days before the meeting, as well as on the OLLI Daily Schedule list of programming. Just click on the link and join the meeting!
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Team Bloch's topic for August 28th Wednesday Afternoon Conversation is: Do you wear a watch? If yes, a traditional watch or a smart watch?
Let’s talk about watches, Pros and Cons: some of the younger generation members eschew wristwatches—time can be checked on their cell phone, they say. But is it rude to pull out your cell phone every ten minutes while in conversation? Or is it equally rude to check your wristwatch every ten minutes? Is it ruder to be late?
Do you have a smart watch? Or do you wear a watch at all? What can a smart watch do for you and what are the disadvantages! What features do you use most on your smartwatch? Interesting to find out what our generation is typically wearing and how their watches are being used.
Our conversations begin at 4:00 each Wednesday afternoon on the 24/7 Chat Line. No registration is required; just click on the link in the emailed Daily Schedule.
The August 2024 Photo of the Month theme was Minimalism. We selected Ed Marion's photo "Minimalist – Frank Lloyd Wright," 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 Edward Marion, Photography Club Co-Coordinators
Because
You laugh
easily naturally generously
to things I say and do
to what others say and do
Because
Your laugh forgives forgets
repeatedly
like it didn’t happen
like it didn’t matter although it did
Because
Your laugh goes to
our children their children
our godchildren friends
our dogs grand dogs
Because
Your laugh is
slight
shy
robust bringing tears
Because
Your laugh was present
before I knew your name
on our first date
during good and bad times
Because
Your laugh
twinkles the moment
invites relaxes connects
is with me for years to come
Mark Weinstein, long-time OLLI member, died on August 7, 2024; he joined in the fall of 2009. Mark was devoted to lifelong learning and teaching. He was slated to teach a fall OLLI class on Steerage—traveling in the lowest category of passenger accommodations on westbound trans-Atlantic steamships at the end of the 18th and early 19th centuries.
Mark was an electrical engineer by profession and served in the United States Air Force. He also volunteered for many years as a docent at the United States Air and Space Museum. He will be missed by his many OLLI friends and students.
A chapel funeral service for Mark was held Monday, August 12, at Stanetsky-Hymanson Memorial Chapel in Salem, Massachusetts. He was laid to rest in Shirat Hayam-Beth El Cemetery, 506 Lowell Street, Peabody, MA. More information is available at this link.
Although there are no performances scheduled for this month, single tickets for next season's performances are on sale for non-subscribers as of August 1. Check the Center for the Arts (CFA) ticket purchase page for a schedule of performances. The Hylton Center for the Performing Arts event schedule has information on fall performances.
By Linda H. Harber, OLLI Member and Friends of Music at Mason President
What a way to start the upcoming arts season at George Mason University!
One of the best events is coming on Saturday, September 28 at Mason: ARTS By George. It is a unique evening which combines many of my favorite things—incredible entertainment, talented student artists in all areas of the arts spectrum—music (Jazz, piano, opera, wind symphony), dance, theater, music technology, art technology, film, Green Machine and more. Also, there will be delicious food and drink throughout. When you sign in, you will receive a schedule for the early evening with so much to choose from as you walk around the arts venues (and did I mention food and drinks?). The evening will close with a concert by the amazing Tony-award-winning Lea Salonga in Mason’s Center for the Arts. More details are available at this link.
A percentage of the admission cost for the evening goes to Mason Arts student scholarships – so you can have fun and support talented arts students! Individual Tickets for (alumni) are $250 ($200 benefit)
Individual Tickets for (non-Alumni) are$350 ($200 benefit)
Please join in on my favorite arts event and hopefully soon-to-be yours! Looking forward to seeing you there!
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week, but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Aug 17
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer Club
Mon Aug 19
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Bridge Club
Poetry Reading Club – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tue Aug 20
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Aug 21
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Aug 22
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Aug 23
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
12:00 noon
1:00 pm
2:30 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Photography Club
Chair Yoga Club – online
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Sat Aug 24
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Aug 26
9:30 am
10:00 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Bridge Club
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tue Aug 27
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Aug 28
10:30 am
12:00 noon
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga Club – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Aug 29
10:00 am
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
All the News – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Aug 30
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Dabbling Artists Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
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, Tom Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected]. Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words. Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.
Last month, our trivia team, Los Viejos, pulled off a third consecutive top-three finish.
Final question: "What insect secretion is also slang for a lopsided result in sports?"
We will be getting together again this Thursday (8 August) at Kalypso’s in Reston, which is in the same complex as the Lake Anne Osher campus. The game starts at 7:00 PM. Andi and I are usually there around 6:30 to hold a table.
If you decide to give it a try, please text or email in advance: (423) 524-5149 or [email protected].
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, August 17, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Surprise—Join Us and Discover
Several topics are under development for this month’s session, but details were unavailable when the deadline for this publication arrived. Details will be posted when available on the OPCUG and PATACS websites.
Learn in 30: Google Calendar—Presented by Geof Goodrum
This month's Learn in 30 session will be a guided tour of PATACS's Google Calendar, which was added to the PATACS website this year. We'll demonstrate calendar features and how to add PATACS calendar events and reminders to your personal calendar, so you won't miss a meeting topic that interests you.
Geof Goodrum is a retired US Government scientist and technology enthusiast who has been active in Computer User Groups since 1984. Geof has been a user and advocate of the GNU/Linux operating system and Open Source software since 1994, with professional experience as a programmer, system administrator, network administrator, data engineer, system engineer, and system architect. Geof also enjoys hiking and completed a through hike of the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail in 2018.
See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 and are now due for 2024 (and 2023, if you didn’t get around to paying last year!)—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.
To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 12:45, please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 815677 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 849 1732 2131 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
The Tallwood Book Club will hold its last Zoom meeting of the year on Friday, August 9th, at 2:30. The book to be discussed is Moloka'i by Alan Brennert.
During the fall and in December, the meetings will be on the Tallwood campus, as noted in the recently-released Fall Catalog.
Your Thoughts Can Be Featured In A Fall 2024 Course: I Was There
By John Quinn, OLLI Instructor
In the fall term, I will present a two-part course entitled "I Was There," which is intended to capture the personal recollections of OLLI members who participated in or witnessed significant historical events.
I have found some interesting stories from OLLI members so far, but not enough. If you witnessed or were otherwise personally involved in one or more significant historical events, please consider contacting me to have your recollections featured in the course.
The younger gentleman in the accompanying photo is Charley Ostott, an OLLI member and a retired three-star Army general, then a senior at West Point. The older gentleman is Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Please contact me at [email protected] (cell phone: 703-915-1578) with any questions. Thanks.
Early morning
Heron in the pond silently steps
Long legs and splayed feet gently stir the water
Head lowered checking for small fish
Slow steady progressive breakfast
Then the ducks arrive in a kerfuffle of fuss
Wildly calling as they fight momentum to land
In a squawk of flapping and flusters
Wings and feet splash into water
The flock settles into paddled disturbance
The heron quietly raises his head
Stands to his fullest
Sends an annoyed glance at his new neighbors
Spreads his enormous wings and leaves with grace
Please note: OLLI Meetings and Clubs may currently take place in several formats: some are in person only, some are online only, and some are hybrid, meaning that they take place in person and are accessible online simultaneously. OLLI events and activities meeting online bear the identification "Z" in their course or event number (except clubs; you may need to check the OLLI calendar and daily schedule email for location and other event information). Refer to the university's coronavirus website for official university updates.
The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week, but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Aug 3
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Aug 5
9:30 am
11:00 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Reading Club – online
Tue Aug 6
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Aug 7
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Aug 8
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Aug 9
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
1:00 pm
2:30 pm
2:30 pm
Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tallwood Book Club – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Sat Aug 10
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Aug 12
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue Aug 13
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Thu Aug 15
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Aug 16
9:30 am
11:00 am
1:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation – online
Homer, etc. – online
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
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, Tom Appich, Martha Kossoff, Anne Hartshorn, Bonnie Becker, Carol McManus
Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: [email protected]. Deadline: Tuesday, 6:00, for that week's issue (Monday, 6:00, for letters to the editor); early submissions are greatly appreciated. Please limit articles to about 250 words. Note: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News on the DocStore. To search the content of issues, use Search Our Site or put your search term in Google followed by "site:olli.gmu.edu/" without the quotes.
Wednesday, Oct 9, 12:30 Harris Theatre
Thursday, Oct 10, 8:00 Center For The Arts
everal local, state, and presidential campaigns since 2000, including the last seven presidential elections. He authored the books The Six Secrets to Winning ANY Local Election and Navigating Elected Office Once You Win!
Hold onto your cards, OLLI Mason has shuffled the staff deck. Make note of these changes so you can work with a full hand going forward!
Steven Leyva was born in New Orleans and raised in Houston. His poems have appeared or are forthcoming in 2 Bridges Review, Scalawag, Nashville Review, jubilat, Vinyl, and Prairie Schooner. He is a Cave Canem fellow and author of the chapbook Low Parish. Steven holds an MFA from the University of Baltimore, where he is an associate professor in the Klein Family School of Communications Design. Click 
es in the current fall catalog, which can awaken your music gene, recall memories of times past, and present an opportunity to sing along.
Mark Weinstein, long-time OLLI member, died on August 7, 2024; he joined in the fall of 2009. Mark was devoted to lifelong learning and teaching. He was slated to teach a fall OLLI class on Steerage—traveling in the lowest category of passenger accommodations on westbound trans-Atlantic steamships at the end of the 18th and early 19th centuries.
One of the best events is coming on Saturday, September 28 at Mason: ARTS By George. It is a unique evening which combines many of my favorite things—incredible entertainment, talented student artists in all areas of the arts spectrum—music (Jazz, piano, opera, wind symphony), dance, theater, music technology, art technology, film, Green Machine and more. Also, there will be delicious food and drink throughout. When you sign in, you will receive a schedule for the early evening with so much to choose from as you walk around the arts venues (and did I mention food and drinks?). The evening will close with a concert by the amazing Tony-award-winning Lea Salonga in Mason’s Center for the Arts. More details are available at 
