The OLLI History Club will meet via Zoom at 4:00 on Wednesday, February 5. The presenter will be Jim Anderson, who is well known to OLLI members for his wonderful and very popular “Frontiersmen” series. Next Wednesday, Jim’s presentation will be titled Stampede to the Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush. The news of the discovery of gold in the Canadian Yukon territory in 1897 electrified millions suffering from the effects of an economic depression. The sensational and often inaccurate news stories led to an epidemic of “gold fever” and sparked a stampede to that remote and forbidding region. The results were dramatic and heroic for the lucky few; but tragic and often lethal for the vast majority seeking instant wealth. Hubris and greed were on full display; brotherly love was in short supply.
The Tallwood Book Club will meet via Zoom on Friday, February 14, at 2:30; check the OLLI daily schedule email for the Zoom link. Our book for February is Erasure, by Percival Everett. The March selection is Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe.
Contact Betty Ellerbee at [email protected] for additional information.
By Christine Narbut, Dabbling Artists Group Coordinator
Welcome to all artists and anyone interested in learning more about art and creating art. The Dabbling Artists Group comes together to discuss, create and inspire OLLI members in the visual arts. Members can work on projects and receive advice from other members and provide suggestions to plan for a future Visual Arts Program at OLLI.
The next meeting of the Dabbling Artists Group is Wednesday, February 5 at 1:30 via Zoom. The group provides socialization and opportunities for support and practice in a group setting, whether your medium is pen and ink, pastels, pencils, watercolor, or other visual arts. During the winter term, Dabbling Artists meet via Zoom every 2 weeks. With the start of the spring term, the meetings are hybrid at Fairfax (Tallwood) and via Zoom.
For questions or more information contact, Chris Narbut at [email protected].
Below is the December painting from a Dabbling Artists member.
Mason Jazz Festival – February 15 (Harris Theatre)
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A, Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
Happy New Year! For OLLI members – Free concerts (no tickets required) on Saturday, February 15, as part of the Mason Jazz Festival.
MASON JAZZ FESTIVAL
Saturday, February 15
10:00am – 10:00pm
Harris Theatre: 4471 Aquia Creek Ln, Fairfax, VA 22030
All concerts are FREE and open to the public – no tickets or registration required.
Free parking in LOT K music.gmu.edu/visit-us/mason-jazz-festival
The Mason Jazz Festival is a yearly invitational, non-competitive event open to middle school, high school, college, and community jazz ensembles. The closing concert is at 7:00 and will feature the Mason Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Jim Carroll, and the US Army Blues! Join us for a full day of jazz music and community.
By Doris Bloch, Caregivers Support Group Coordinator
Rosalynn Carter once said, "There are three groups of people: those that are currently caregivers, those that receive help from their caregivers, and those who will be caregivers." Are you in one of those groups? If the first one is a match for you right now, OLLI may be able to give you some support.
The OLLI Caregivers Support Group meets via Zoom every second week throughout the year to offer practical and emotional support to the participants. We meet for an hour and a facilitator from the George Mason School of Social Work joins us. Sometimes we share our thoughts and concerns; sometimes the discussion is about resources and suggestions. The group is listed for registration on our member portal, and if you register there, you will receive all messages addressed to the group. Our next meeting is scheduled for 3:45 on February 4, and you can find the link in the daily schedule email.
There is also a mailing list, separate from registration, for those who don't want to commit to a regular meeting but want to remain informed. For the latter, and for any questions, please contact Doris Bloch ([email protected]).
Biweekly Team Bloch Wednesday Conversation Topic for February 5
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
The January 17th Washington Post published a fascinating article titled “Who are the top readers for 2024? And where do they get their books?” (Click here to read the article.) YouGov (survey firm) crunched the data and found that 63% of us read at least one book last year. Did you read more than 20 books last year? If yes, you are a Super Reader in the top 11%.
The article also has data on the use of digital versus physical books and the use of libraries. One of the surprises was that older Americans tend to use libraries less for both digital and physical books.
We invite all OLLI book lovers to join us on February 5th at 4:00 for the conversation, regardless of whether or not you had an opportunity to read the article. Look for the Zoom link in the OLLI Daily Schedule.
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 the CFA ticket page link below) or visit the venue's box office. For more information, see theCFA ticket pageor theHylton 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 atthis link to stay in touch. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Branford Marsalis
Sat, Feb 1, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $46.
Mike Super – Magic & Illusion
Sun, Feb 2, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $40, $30, $20.
The Constitution and Loving v. Virginia(a panel discussion)
Thu, Feb 6, 7:00
Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center
3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030
Admission: Free, but registration required. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/r7oTPP0/loving
Sarah Sherman: Spring Comedy Headliner 2025
Thu, Feb 6, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
Fairfax Symphony: Love is in the Air
Sat, Feb 8, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $65, $55, $40.
GMU School of Theater: Mason Cabaret 2025
Fri, Jan 31, 8:00 (at Gregory Family Theater, Hylton Center)
Sat, Feb 1, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Feb 2, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $30 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. 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 1
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 3
4:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 4
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online Team Bloch Wednesday Conversation – online
Thu Feb 6
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Feb 7
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Dance Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Feb 8
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 10
9:30 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 11
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
Wed Feb 12
11:50 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Thu Feb 13
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 Feb 14
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Feb 15
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.
OLLI 2025 Nominating Committee Begins Identifying Candidates for the Board of Directors
By Norma Jean Reck, Chairperson, Nominating Committee
Each year, the members of OLLI’s Board of Directors create a Nominating Committee to recruit candidates for the Board of Directors, to conduct the election, and to select officers for the upcoming year. Each year, five directors are elected by the general membership by secret ballot for a three-year term. Officers are elected by the Board to serve a one-year term.
Who is the Nominating Committee?
According to the recently updated Policies and Procedures Manual drafted by the Governance Committee and approved by the Board of Directors on October 18, 2024, the Nominating Committee must consist of five members – two directors and three non-director OLLI members. The committee members are not eligible to be candidates for director for the upcoming year.
At its January 17, 2025, Board meeting, the following OLLI members were approved to serve as OLLI’s 2025 Nominating Committee: Peter Ansoff and Lillian Brooks as the two Board members, and Doris Bloch, Marguerite Johnson, and Norma Jean Reck as the three non-board OLLI members.
The members of the Nominating Committee have met to review the new policies and procedures, to begin planning for identifying candidates for the 2025 election that will take place in May, and to develop a calendar for the process.
What are the Qualifications to be a Director?
Qualifications to be a candidate for the Board are provided in OLLI’s Policies and Procedures Manual on page 31 Appendix A. Director Nominations and Election Procedures. The Manual can be found online at OLLI’s website olli.gmu.edu.
Briefly, the general qualifications to be a director require that the candidate have expressed interest in OLLI by having taught, coordinated classes, served as a committee member, volunteered, etc. Other qualifications include oral and written communication skills, willingness to contribute to the governance of OLLI, and to assume the necessary responsibilities to lead the organization.
The Board may also ask that specific expertise or experience be considered such as legal, financial, or fundraising skills.
How are the Candidates Identified?
The Nominating Committee is now in the process of identifying possible candidates for the Board. Once they have been identified, they will be asked to verify their interest in being a candidate for Director. The Committee is required to provide five qualified candidates to the Board at its March 21, 2025, meeting.
Can a Qualified OLLI Member Self-Identify?
Yes, you can self-identify. You must notify the Committee of your interest by e-mailing the Chairperson, Norma Jean Reck, at [email protected] by March 7, 2025. Be sure to include a brief bio and reasons for wanting to serve on the Board of Directors.
Because of the looming change in the executive director position, OLLI is at a crucial inflection point that will require well-qualified Directors with the vision to lead OLLI into a future where we not only survive, but thrive. Given the remarkable make-up of our membership, I’m sure we can meet the challenge.
OLLI Mason Seeks Spanish and Other Language Instructors: Note Correction!
By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group
For many years, OLLI Mason has been able to offer beginning, intermediate, or conversational Spanish classes on a regular basis. At the moment, our regular instructors are no longer available. We also, in the past, have been able to offer French language classes as well.
Note: An incorrect contact email was submitted to the January 17 OLLI-E-News on the above story. If you are interested in teaching or know resources to teach Spanish or other languages, please contact Pat Bangs at [email protected] or [email protected]. (This reflects corrected email information.) Thanks.
By Margie Wildblood and Sophia Elberti, OLLI Ink Co-Editors
OLLI writers—beginners and experienced—take note: OLLI Ink is now accepting submissions, including poems, fiction, personal essays, and memoirs, for its 2025 edition.
Now moving into its 15th year, OLLI Ink is a well-established publication whose contributors come from a wide spectrum of OLLI members, including, but not limited to, those enrolled in writing classes and workshops.
How to Submit: Please send your entries and any questions to both Margie Wildblood at [email protected] and Sophia Elberti at [email protected].
Guidelines:
Poems – please limit number of lines to 30.
Prose – please single space and indent the first sentence of each paragraph; limit number of words to 2,500.
Contributions are welcome through the end of March.
The Tallwood Book Club will meet via Zoom on Friday, February 14, at 2:30. The book for February 14 is Erasure, by Percival Everett. Check the OLLI daily schedule email for the Zoom link.
By Doris Bloch, Crafts and Conversation Group Coordinator
OLLI has a Crafts and Conversation group which meets every Friday morning from 9:30-11:00 at Tallwood and on Zoom. A variety of crafts is being worked on during each session—e.g., everything from knitting, crocheting, construction of miniature buildings and furnishings, cross-stitch, fly tying, and fleece spinning (complete with spinning wheel). In the past, we have enjoyed and encouraged members who did calligraphy, mosaic work, wood whittling, and sketching with us—we love the diversity. We all learn from each other in a supportive environment.
While there is a sign-up option, we also encourage walk-ins; why not drop by one Friday morning in the Tallwood annex or log on to our Zoom session and get acquainted with us? We are very excited and pleased to welcome all members.
Second Lagrange Point: A Love Poem
We have achieved equilibrium
Defied gravity to float
Deified our transcendence
Hovering above earth
Stabilized by sun and moon
Wearing a shower of stars
Hearts forever in balance
Our celestial duet echoing
With music of the spheres
OLLI member Frank “Doug” Dickey passed away on January 9, 2025, while on vacation in The Bahamas. A 1976 graduate of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA, with a BS in mathematics and studies in computer science, he enjoyed photography. At OLLI, he was a member of the Photography Club.
There will be a celebration of life for Doug on Saturday, February 1 at 1:00 in Reston at The Lake House, 11450 Baron Cameron Avenue. Further information is available at this link.
By Linda Monson, D.M.A., Mason Distinguished Service Professor, and Linda Harber, Friends of Music at Mason Co–President
Here are some upcoming free Mason Music concerts at Mason's Harris Theatre on some Sundays through March 2. All of these Sunday programs will be great performances by talented Dewberry Music School faculty.
On Tuesday, February 25, the spring semester student music concerts begin with the Mason Bands Concert at 8:00 in the Center for the Arts Concert Hall. Please check the website and look for more information on the variety of upcoming Mason Music. See you there!
Dewberry Faculty Artist Series at George Mason University Free Sunday performances in Harris Theater Sunday, January 26 at 3:00 Nuove Frontiere
David Porter, tuba; Caroline Steiger, horn
Sunday, February 16 at 3:00 The Spheres Project
June Huang, violin; Taylor Fleshman, harp
Gerald Fowkes, cello; Thomas J. Wible, flute
Sunday, February 23 at 3:00 Duo-Piano Silver Anniversary Concert
Linda Apple Monson & Anna Balakerskaia, pianists
Sunday, March 2 at 3:00
Kathleen Gardiner Mulcahy, clarinet, with
Caroline Steiger, horn; Eunae Ko Han, piano
Sunday, March 2 at 7:00
Jesse Guessford, composition
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.
Silkroad Ensemble: Percussion All-Stars
Sat, Jan 25, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Dances for the Ears
Sun, Jan 26, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Branford Marsalis
Sat, Feb 1, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $46.
Mike Super – Magic & Illusion
Sun, Feb 2, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $40, $30, $20.
GMU School of Theater: Mason Cabaret 2025
Fri, Jan 31, 8:00
Sat, Feb 1, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Feb 2, 2:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $30 Adult, $15 Senior.
Faculty Artist Series: Nuove Frontiere
Dr. Caroline Steiger, horn and Dr. David Porter, tuba
Sun, Jan 26, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
American Youth Philharmonic Orchestra Sat, Jan 18, 3:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $10.
ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: Les Miserables – Youth Edition Fri, Jan 24, 7:00 Sat, Jan 25, 2:00 and 7:00 Sun, Jan 26, 2:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $25 Adult, $20 Senior.
Graham Breedlove Group, American Roots Series Sat, Jan 25, 5:00 Gregory Family Theater Admission: $30.
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 Jan 25
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jan 27
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Family History/Genealogy Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jan 28
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jan 29
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
1:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Thu Jan 30
3:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Literary Fiction Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jan 31
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature Club – online
Sat Feb 1
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Feb 3
4:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Feb 4
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Thu Feb 6
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Feb 7
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Mah Jongg Club
Dance Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Classic Literature 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.
Notice: Executive Director Jennifer Disano will be transitioning out of her position after more than ten years of extraordinary service to OLLI. E-News extends best wishes for continued success in her future career.
OLLI Personal Computer User Group 3rd Saturday meeting is January 18 (tomorrow) in person and via Zoom; check the OLLI daily schedule email for link and other information.
Registration for winter term continues. There are several courses with space available; register today at the member portal.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, January 24; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, January 21, at 6:00.
President Debbie Engleson called the OLLI Board of Directors meeting to order at 10:00 on Friday, 15 November 2024, in room TA-1 at Tallwood; present were thirteen Board members (including four officers) and the Executive Director.
The president noted OLLI closings for the holidays and stated that the OLLI holiday party had more than 100 people (including staff) registered to attend.
Executive Director Jennifer Disano reported that OLLI membership is stabilizing with about 950 current members. She noted that OLLI has given $20,000 in scholarships to Mason students, helping maintain interest among Mason instructors to teach at OLLI. There were 160 classes plus clubs and other activities at OLLI during the fall term.
Treasurer Richard Crawford reported that OLLI expenditures and income are tracking well. IRS Form 990 was reviewed by the Finance Committee and Treasurer to meet the annual deadline. The budget will continue to have a reserve line for potential equipment replacement for our classrooms.
Under New Business, the Board discussed a resolution to approve the 2024 OLLI tax return (IRS Form 990); the resolution was tabled pending Board review of the form. In other new business, OLLI anticipates contracting with Silverstone Corporation (owner of several retirement communities in Northern Virginia) to provide 15 classes annually for $45,000; courses and instructors are to be determined.
By Camille Hodges, OLLI Board Member and Chair of the Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group
If you are still looking for resolutions to make in the New Year, look no further. Take the challenge and teach a course at OLLI, specifically in Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events. Some suggested topics include, but are not limited to: multicultural topics, intergenerational topics, the future of American education, the Pullman porters influence in American history, the future of politics in America, the psychology of surviving politics, or your own course idea. Classes continue to be in-person, virtual, and hybrid.
Remember, when schools are closed due to the weather, OLLI classes are cancelled.
Hopefully, you will consider teaching a class in 2025. Currently, we are looking at the following schedule:
- summer 2025 course proposals are due: January 27
- fall 2025 course proposals are due: April 7.
OLLI Mason Seeks Spanish and Other Language Instructors
By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group
For many years, OLLI Mason has been able to offer beginning, intermediate, or conversational Spanish classes on a regular basis. At the moment, our regular instructors are no longer available. In the past, have been able to offer French language classes as well. If you are a Spanish, French, or other language speaker and are comfortable teaching or know of individuals who might be interested, please contact me at [email protected].
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers' Group
On Sunday, February 2 at 2pm, the Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) will attend Mason's student performance of Broadway's Prince: The Musicals of Hal Prince at the Harris Theater in Fairfax. If you enjoyed seeing the Phantom of the Opera, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Westside Story, Cabaret, and Sweeney Todd, then you will love this celebratory musical salute to the legendary Hal Prince, who changed musical theater on Broadway forever. Senior tickets are $15, plus a fee. Phone 703-993-1120 for tickets. Optional preshow lunch will be at Oh George at noon.
On Saturday, February 8 at 2pm, TLG will return to 1stStage in Tysons to see The Lake Effect. It takes place in Cleveland in a small Indian restaurant during a snowstorm when an Indian American brother and sister reunite after being estranged for years. A moving story of family, relationships, secrets, and finding a way forward. Tickets are $25/$40/$55. Phone 703-854-1856. Tell them you are with OLLI Theater Group. Preshow lunch TBD.
On Sunday, February 16, TLG will go to the Creative Cauldron's new home next to Whole Foods on corner of Route 7 and Lee Highway to see Steel Magnolias. This heartfelt and hilarious story takes place in Louisiana, specifically in Truvy's Beauty Salon where all the ladies gather to chat, gossip, and bond. Tickets are $40 (group rate with 10 people). Email Norma if you are interested in going. When we get ten people, we will purchase the tickets. Preshow lunch TBD.
When you register for classes, remember to sign up for the Theater Lovers' Group to keep getting emails about TLG events. If you have any questions, email me at [email protected]. Everyone is invited to join TLG - a very engaged and fun group.
Editor’s note: At the author’s request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
The January 2025 Photo of the Month theme was Cell Phone Photos. We selected Margie Wildblood's photo "Australian Shepherd," 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
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Our topic for discussion on Wednesday, January 22, is Online Subscription Services.
Let’s talk about Amazon, Amazon Prime, and similar subscription services. Love them, tolerate them, use them, hate them? Everyone has an opinion—share yours with us.
Join us on the 24/7 OLLI Chat Line at 4:00 Wednesday, January 22, and let us know how you feel about this topic. No sign-up required.
Click here for the Zoom link;
Meeting ID: 889 4635 8407
Passcode: 772491
Dial-in: 301-715-8592.
Forrest (Bob) Hanvey, OLLI member from 2015-2020, died December 4, 2024. He was born in San Diego, California, in 1933.
Bob graduated from the US Naval Academy in the class of 1957, first in the class as the honors graduate. He was commissioned in the Air Force and completed a master’s degree in aerospace engineering. Assigned to Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico, he pioneered work on inertial guidance technology. After leaving active duty, he led a team at Western Union developing their first programmable line interface. Subsequently, he was Vice President of Communications Systems at Citicorp.
There will be a private burial will be in Prince Frederick, Maryland. Later, plans will be announced for a celebration of his life. More information is available at this link.
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.
Silkroad Ensemble Sat, Jan 25, 8:00 A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain. Concert Hall Admission: $55, $47, $33.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Dances for the Ears Sun, Jan 26, 7:00 Concert Hall Admission: $50, $43, $29.
American Youth Philharmonic Orchestra Sat, Jan 18, 3:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $10.
ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre: Les Miserables – Youth Edition Fri, Jan 24, 7:00 Sat, Jan 25, 2:00 and 7:00 Sun, Jan 26, 2:00 Merchant Hall Admission: $25 Adult, $20 senior.
Graham Breedlove Group, American Roots Series Sat, Jan 25, 5:00 Gregory Family Theater Admission: $30.
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 Jan 18
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Jan 20
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jan 21
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi 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.
The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, January 18, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Shopping for and Buying Hearing Aids—Presented by Gabe Goldberg
Over several years, hearing tests suggested that I was heading for using hearing aids. When the time arrived, researching device and provider choices was more complicated than I had realized. I evaluated several brands and models at very different price points and found a service that saved me about $2500 with only a very modest reduction in service―which I still don't fully understand.
This experience occurred just as Direct-to-Consumer devices were becoming available, so I can't discuss these. But having been served by a practice with Doctors of Audiology (people with Au.D. credentials), I would be reluctant to make a self-service selection and setup, or even work with a lesser-qualified licensed hearing aid provider.
Buying hearing aids involves multiple tradeoffs and significant expense. The most useful advice may be to do plenty of research and not immediately purchase the first devices suggested by the first provider visited. Those may be the best choice but evaluate others.
Bonus: This will be a duet with my Au.D., who'll present the provider perspective on hearing aid devices.
In developing and supporting technology, Gabe has written and presented for diverse audiences, from consumers to industry experts. He's also involved in DC-area and national tech groups helping people use, enjoy, and benefit from these modern marvels.
Learn in 30: Flight Radar 24—Presented by Bill Walsh
Bill will demonstrate and discuss new features of this aircraft tracking program.
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 2025 (and 2024, 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 952879 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 8124 5733 563 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Our topic for discussion on Wednesday, January 8, is Poetry.
Poetry―literary work in which special intensity is given to the expression of feelings and ideas by the use of distinctive style and rhythm; poems collectively, or as a genre of literature.
Poetry―literature that evokes a concentrated imaginative awareness of experience or a specific emotional response through language chosen and arranged for its meaning, sound, and rhythm.
Is a poem a little machine? A firework? An echo? A dream?
Above are a few definitions of poetry, taken from the Internet. But they describe attributes, rather than definitions, in my opinion. Which, if any, do you agree with? Can you suggest a better definition? Are you a poetry lover? Or do you wish that you could appreciate the genre more fully?
Let's share our opinions about poetry via the 24/7 Chat Line on January 8th at 4:00. No need to sign up – just zoom on in. We hope that some of our OLLI members who enjoy reading and/or writing poetry will join us.
We need a couple of new editors! It’s not a full-time job—it’s a great way to support OLLI with only a little effort every few weeks. By serving one day every four or five weeks as Editor of the Week, you can have a positive impact on OLLI and enjoy a pleasant journalistic experience. We’ll even give you a button that you can wear on your OLLI badge to celebrate your contribution!
E‑News is one of several OLLI publications that is created using MailChimp software. We will teach you what you need to know to be able to put together an E-News issue. You don’t have to generate content, which generally is submitted by OLLI-member coordinators for committees, clubs, and activities. If you are interested and have questions or would like to know more, please contact me at [email protected]. Thanks!
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.
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 Jan 4
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jan 6
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Reading Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jan 7
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jan 8
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
1:30 pm
2:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Dabbling Artists Club – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Thu Jan 9
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats – online
Fri Jan 10
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
2:30 pm
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Jan 11
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Jan 13
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Jan 14
10:00 am
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Large Program Planning Group Meeting
How to Zoom – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jan 15
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
12:00 noon
4:00 pm
Bridge Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Staff Meeting
Spanish Club – online
Thu Jan 16
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jan 17
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Mah Jongg Club
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Jan 18
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.
Hey, Would-Be Journalists! Please join the E-News editorial team; it will be satisfying for you. If you love OLLI and are interested in an easy way to contribute a volunteer effort to the organization, here’s an opportunity to do so by becoming a member of the E-News editorial team. By serving one day every four or five weeks as Editor of the Week, you can have a positive impact on OLLI and enjoy a pleasant journalistic experience. We need a couple of new editors; we’ll even give you a button that you can wear on your OLLI badge to celebrate your contribution!
E-News is one of several OLLI publications that is created using MailChimp software. We will teach you what you need to know to be able to put together an E-News issue. You don’t have to generate content, which generally is submitted by OLLI-member coordinators for committees, clubs, and activities. If you are interested and have questions or would like to know more, please contact me at [email protected]. Thanks!
By Michael Mason, Classic Literature Club Coordinator
Did you read a classic work of literature when you were young and in school and it changed your life? Or were you forced to read an assigned book or story, and it made no sense to you? Well, maybe after a long eventful life, it may be time to revisit or read for the first time some of the great works of the literary arts.
The Classic Literature Club was formed to read and discuss classic texts from world literature. In the past, the club has read works such as Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway, William Faulkner’s Absalom, Absalom, Toni Morrison’s Beloved, John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath, short stories of John Updike and Flannery O’Connor, and plays by Eugene O’Neill and Arthur Miller. Members choose the works to be discussed. Often, discussions are preceded by recorded lectures from great teachers and scholars.
For the winter term, the club has agreed to read selected poems by Robert Frost and the novel Frankenstein or The Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley. So, join our club and read and discuss some of the classics. They just might change your life! For more info about the club, contact club coordinator Michael Mason ([email protected]).
Ring in the New Year by Seeing a Musical Classic and a Big, Bawdy, Bodacious Musical Comedy?
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group
Join the fun-loving Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) on Sunday, January 5, 2025, to see the 2pm matinee of Stephen Sondheim's A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum at the Signature Theater in Arlington. This laugh-out-loud musical comedy transports you back to the romantic antics of Roman Times and promises 'something for everyone: a comedy tonight.' You might even leave the theater singing some tunes. What a great way to begin the New Year.
To purchase tickets, go to http://www.sigtheatre.org or phone 703-820-9771. Select your seat and price range.
We will have a pre-show lunch at a nearby restaurant. Feel free to invite guests who need not be OLLI members.
To sign up for the lunch or for more information, email me at [email protected].
Just added: At 8pm on Saturday, January 4, TLG goes to the Workhouse Arts Theater to see The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Gay Alper will take the lead for this night out. We'll have dinner before seeing this performance of an unforgettable classic whose sweeping score and powerful story make it a musical classic. Go toworkhousearts.orgto purchase tickets ($35/$40). Email Gay to sign up and for details [email protected].
Editor’s note: At the author’s request, all words are published unedited, exactly as submitted.
Crisp fall twilight sky filled with orange and gray clouds
Painting the cove’s flat water
Cold glass of Miller Light
Hot tub at 104, jets on max
Time to untie back muscles
Enjoy a blue heron watching for dinner Start my first gulp but stop short
“Damn, a gnat
Not wasting this beer
Just fish the little bugger out
It’s alcohol; he’s purified”
Carefully use pointer finger to raise the corpse
Gently touch him as he latches to my finger
“Wait, he’s moving, he appears to wobble
He’s drunk. The little guy has had his fill.”
Take two more big swigs and watch him
Can’t tell which is front or back
Not trying to get away, seems content
“Hey little buddy. How’s been your day?
Mine’s been a pisser; you don’t want to know but
tell you anyway”
Wife appears, “Who were you just talking to? Dinner is almost ready.”
“My little drinking buddy, he’s had too much to fly
Don’t know what to do with him”
“Well he can’t come to dinner and I could use some help.”
What to do?
“Crunching you isn’t right, flicking you off my finger is extreme.
Tell you what, left a little beer in the bottom. I’ll put you
on the side of the glass. You decide. Dry out and fly away.
Go down to the beer and enjoy your end. Your choice.”
"But you can't come to dinner."
-- Bill Sinclair
Former member John West (he joined OLLI in fall 2004), 81, passed away peacefully at his home in Ashburn, Virginia, on November 20, 2024, with his wife of 56 years, Kathie, by his side. He devoted 21 years to the United States Air Force, retiring as a lieutenant colonel.
John was webmaster at OLLI for many years. He was in charge of DocStore and, with Paul Howard and Rod Zumbro, solved many of OLLI's technical glitches. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Fairfax Demaine Funeral Home on January 18, 2025, at 1:00. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery, with Military Honors, in 2026. More information is available at this link.
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 theCFA 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.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus) Prince William Little Theatre: Christmas Belles
Fri, Dec 20, 8:00
Sat, Dec 21, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Dec 22, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25, $20, $15.
Manassas Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker
Fri, Dec 20, 7:30
Sat, Dec 21, 3:00 and 7:30
Sun, Dec 22, 3:00 and 7:30
Mon, Dec 23, 3:00.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $85, $75, $65, $55, $45.
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 Dec 21
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Dec 23
4:00 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Dec 24
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Dec 25
Holiday
Thu Dec 26
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Dec 27
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Homer, etc. – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Dec 28
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Dec 30
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Dec 31
2:00 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Jan 1
Holiday
Thu Jan 2
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Jan 3
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation
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.
Opportunities to Join the OLLI E‑News Editorial Team
By Paul Van Hemel, E‑News Chief Editor
If you love OLLI and are interested in an easy way to contribute a volunteer effort to the organization, here’s an opportunity to do so by becoming a member of the E‑News editorial team. By serving one day every four or five weeks as Editor of the Week, you can have a positive impact on OLLI and enjoy a pleasant journalistic experience. We have openings for a couple of new editors.
E‑News is one of several OLLI publications that is created using MailChimp software. We will teach you what you need to know to be able to put together an E-News issue. You don’t have to generate content; it generally is submitted by OLLI-member coordinators for committees, clubs, and activities. If you are interested and have questions or would like to know more, please contact me at [email protected]. Thanks!
Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group Meeting
By Patricia Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group Co-Chair
Reminder: The Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group will meet on December 10 at 10:00.
To attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service beginning at 10:00, please click this link to join and enter meeting ID 973 1475 2992 in the Zoom application, or dial in at 301-715-8592. The Zoom link will also appear in the OLLI emailed daily schedule. You may also join by SIP ([email protected]).
December Notes on Diversity
By Camille Hodges, OLLI Board Member and Chair of the Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group
Diversity is the one true thing we all have in common. Celebrate it every day. — Author Unknown
St. Nicholas Day (December 5 or 6)
Also known as the Feast of Saint Nicholas—some Christians honor the birthday of Saint Nicholas who inspired “Santa Claus” and the act of gift-giving. St. Nicholas, however, walked on earth to give to those in need.
Immaculate Conception Day (December 8)
Catholics celebrate the day of Immaculate Conception to honor the Virgin Mary, who is believed to have been born without original sin.
Bodhi Day (December 8)
Also known as Rohatun, this Buddhist tradition honors the day in which the Buddha (Siddhartha Gautauma) is said to have achieved enlightenment. Many Buddhists celebrate it through meditation.
National Human Rights Day (December 10)
On this date in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe (December 12)
Mexicans and Mexican-Americans often celebrate the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe who, as the patron saint of Mexico, symbolizes patriotism and devotion.
Hanukkah (December 18-26)
The Jewish holiday of Hanukkah begins December 18 and lasts for eight days. As the central part of the Jewish Festival of Lights, it includes the lighting of a nine-branched menorah each night. The ninth candle (shamash) is used to light the others.
Christmas Day (December 25)
This holiday is recognized by Christians as the day to celebrate the birth of Jesus the Christ who they believe is the Son of God. The date was chosen by the Roman Catholic Church.
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, December 14, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Smart Plugs: Preserving Device Batteries—Presented by John Krout
Part 1 of this presentation will introduce you to the features and many uses of low-cost Smart Plugs. These can be controlled remotely by zero-cost apps on your smart phone or tablet and by vocal assistants such as Alexa, Hey Google, or Siri.
Part 2 will show you a way to use a smart plug and its controller app to extend the life of the lithium-ion battery in your smart watch, laptop, and pluggable hybrid electric vehicle. This technique is unusual because it does not rely on any app on the device being charged. It will work on any operating system or brand of device being charged, so long as the charger runs on standard alternating current (AC) electric power.
John Krout is a regular presenter at our meetings on a wide range of computer, technology, and photography topics, and author of many articles for the PATACS Posts newsletter.
Learn in 30: The Economy and Considerations for Investors—Presented by Cory Saylor
This presentation will give a general economic update, where we are and how we feel heading into 2025. Some high points: the US economy remains resilient; inflation has continued to moderate; the Fed has started its rate-cutting journey. Consideration for investors will be discussed, with audience questions encouraged.
Cory Saylor, CFP® is a senior portfolio manager with TIAA Trust, N.A. (“TIAA Trust”) in Northern Virginia. He is responsible for designing and managing customized investment portfolios to help meet the financial objectives of high-net-worth clients. Cory has nearly 30 years of experience managing money for high-net-worth individuals as well as for institutions.
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.
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.
At the Fairfax Campus Venues Squirrel Nut Zippers
Sat, Dec 7, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33. American Festival Pops Orchestra
Sat, Dec 14, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in Monson Grand Tier 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Fairfax Symphony & Fairfax Ballet: The Nutcracker
Sat, Dec 21, 4:00
Sun, Dec 22, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $89, $69, $49, $39.
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals) School of Dance: Dance Innovations
Fri, Dec 6, 2:00 and 7:00
Sat, Dec 7, 7:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20 Adult, $12 Senior.
Mason Symphony Orchestra and Choirs Winter Festival
Sun, Dec 8, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus) Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra: Hallelujah! Handel's Messiah and Holiday Favorites
Fri, Dec 6, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior.
School of Music: Love, Betrayal and Forgiveness – Scenes from Mozart’s Most Popular Operas
Sat, Dec 7, 2:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior.
Manassas Chorale: The Twelve Days of Christmas
Sat, Dec 7, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $25, $23.
Sons of Serendip
Sun, Dec 8, 4:00
A pre-performance discussion begins with members of the company one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
American Festival Pops Orchestra: Holiday Pops, Songs of the Season
Fri, Dec 13 at 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Prince William Little Theatre: Christmas Belles
Fri, Dec 13, 8:00
Sat, Dec 14, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Dec 15, 2:00
Fri, Dec 20, 8:00
Sat, Dec 21, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Dec 22, 2:00
Prince William Little Theater
Admission: $25, $20, $15.
Manassas Symphony Orchestra Family Concert: Reveries
Sat, Dec 14, 3:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30, $25.
Seán Healey’s Celtic Christmas
Sun, Dec 15, 2:00 and 5:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $30.
Manassas Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker
Wed, Dec 18, 7:30
Thu, Dec 19, 7:30
Fri, Dec 20, 7:30
Sat, Dec 21, 3:00 and 7:30
Sun, Dec 22, 3:00 and 7:30
Mon, Dec 23, 3:00.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $85, $75, $65, $55, $45.
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 Dec 7
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Dec 9
9:30 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Poetry Writing Club – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tue Dec 10
10:00 am
10:00 am
1:00 pm
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Holiday Sing Along Literature, Theater, Writing Program Planning Group – online
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Care Givers Support Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Dec 11
9:30 am
10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm
Dabbling Artists Club
Bridge Club
Tallwood Book Club
Investment Forum
Chair Yoga and More – online
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Thu Dec 12
11:50 am
12:30 pm
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News – online Art and Music Program Planning Group
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri Dec 13
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
12:00 noon
Photography Club
Crafts and Conversation
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club
Chair Yoga and More – online
Sat Dec 14
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Dec 16
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 Dec 17
2:00 pm
3:45 pm
4:30 pm
Chair Yoga and More – online
Caregivers Support Group – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Dec 18
10:30 am
12:00 noon
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Investment Forum – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Dec 19
11:50 am
3:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News – online
Chair Yoga and More – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Dec 20
9:30 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
Crafts and Conversation
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.
and very popular “Frontiersmen” series. Next Wednesday, Jim’s presentation will be titled Stampede to the Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush. The news of the discovery of gold in the Canadian Yukon territory in 1897 electrified millions suffering from the effects of an economic depression. The sensational and often inaccurate news stories led to an epidemic of “gold fever” and sparked a stampede to that remote and forbidding region. The results were dramatic and heroic for the lucky few; but tragic and often lethal for the vast majority seeking instant wealth. Hubris and greed were on full display; brotherly love was in short supply.
Forrest Robert Hanvey, Jr.
We need a couple of new editors! It’s not a full-time job—it’s a great way to support OLLI with only a little effort every few weeks. By serving one day every four or five weeks as Editor of the Week, you can have a positive impact on OLLI and enjoy a pleasant journalistic experience. We’ll even give you a button that you can wear on your OLLI badge to celebrate your contribution!
member of the E-News editorial team. By serving one day every four or five weeks as Editor of the Week, you can have a positive impact on OLLI and enjoy a pleasant journalistic experience. We need a couple of new editors; we’ll even give you a button that you can wear on your OLLI badge to celebrate your contribution!
Start my first gulp but stop short
