New and Continuing Members Shared Conversation at the Grab ‘n’ Gab Coffee Klatch Hosted
by Toni Acton, April 26 at Tallwood
May 3, 2024
Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents
Alerts & Notices
Notice/Reminder: Please be aware that no OLLI staff will email you with a request to purchase a gift card or share banking information. Be suspicious that any such email is likely to be a scam.
The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, May 10; the regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, May 7, at 6:00.
From the Desk of the Executive Director Grand Opening of The Mather Lending Library
By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director
On April 29, OLLI Mason Board members and staff visited The Mather senior living community in Tysons, along with community partners, to celebrate the grand opening of The Mather library. Organizations like the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Northern Virginia, the Alan Cheuse International Writers Center, Fall for the Book, Watershed Lit Center for Literary Engagement and Publishing Practice, the College of Visual & Performing Arts (CVPA), and so many more, shared in the curation of The Mather’s beautiful new lending library. At the celebration residents learned about community connections and partner organizations, explored OLLI Mason offerings, and listened to an amazing presentation and performance by Dewberry School of Music Pianist Samuel Beckett Kim. Special thanks to Jen Morrow of Bards Alley for her expert work in the selection and stocking of the library shelves. Also, thanks to the The Mather staff for all their hard work! Kudos to everyone!
On Friday, April 26, a group of OLLI members enjoyed a docent-led tour of the US Capitol, one of the world’s most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate a Zoom discussion on May 8 at 4:00.
The topic for May 8: How do we read cookbooks? A recent article in The Atlantic was titled, The Wisdom of Cookbooks. We don't often evaluate how we read a cookbook. The author suggested that many of us read a cookbook from cover to cover as we would a novel, savoring the cultural information and imagining the flavors of the ingredients, as well as the aromas in our kitchens. Some cookbooks present recipes as endearing as prose and others might represent a memoir of essays from the author. As an example, Alice Waters of Chez Panisse writes "handling living food is so inspiring and energizing it makes you want to cook."
Have you ever thought about how you read a cookbook? Do you have a cookbook that offers more than just recipes that you might want to share? We have a few suggestions for you.
Check your OLLI Daily Schedule for the Zoom link on Wednesday May 8 and join us to share your thoughts.
Thank you to everyone who donated their solar eclipse glasses to be collected and sent to Astronomers Without Borders. About 25 pairs of glasses from OLLI were dropped off at Warby Parker, the local distribution site. Their participation in the collection program ended on April 30, so OLLI will be removing our donation box.
On my usual walk in the park
I sometimes climb a circular path
to a look-out summit that offers a
panoramic view—a frame-by-frame
vista that I piece together with few turns.
It’s all there: the lakes, the children’s
playground, the greenhouse, and the
grove of old-growth oaks that shade a
forest path that meanders through the
native plant region.
All beneath an ever-changing sky that
shows no preference for the beauty below.
The view from above detaches me from
my ground-level cares and I forget,
for a moment, my mundane worries.
Instead, I savor the expansive view,
the spacious air, and the tranquil quiet.
I rest on a bench placed there for such
moments and inhale my surroundings,
feeling my belly inflate and contract—
just a few breaths more, before I make
my descent.
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.
Brian Ganz: A Chopin Recital
Sat, May 4, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler! Featuring Doreen Ketchens
Sat, May 4, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.
Northern Virginia Ballet: Cinderella
Sun, May 5, 2:00 and 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35 Adult, $25 Senior.
Creative and Performing Arts Center (CAPAC): Crowns, A Gospel Musical
Sat, May 11, 2:00
Sun, May 12, 3:00
Sat, May 18, 2:00
Sun, May 19, 3:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30 Adult, $12 Senior.
Pied Piper Theatre: The Wizard of Oz
Sat, May 11, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, May 12, 2:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30 Adult, $25 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 May 4
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 6
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue May 7
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 8
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
Tallwood Book Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 9
11:50 am
4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 10
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
1:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club – off-site
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Sat May 11
10:00 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 13
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue May 14
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 15
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 16
11:50 am
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
All the News
Reston Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 17
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
2:30 pm
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Caregivers Group – online
Sat May 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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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:ollidev2.earthcare.com/" without the quotes.
On Friday, April 19, President Lillian Brooks opened the OLLI Board of Directors meeting at 10:00 with 14 Directors, Jennifer Disano (Executive Director) and 17 OLLI members/staff in TA-1 and on Zoom.
Our coffee event in Reston was an informative talk with Loudoun and Reston members. We are still investigating places to continue having classes in the Loudoun area and are looking into engaging the Loudoun library system for OLLI sponsorship. The Fairfax library system has renewed their OLLI contract for another year.
The Teacher Appreciation Breakfast on Friday, April 12 at the Fairfax Country Club was very successful. Mason President Gregory Washington spoke about our common interests and relationships, and Fairfax City Mayor Catherine Read talked about the city supporting the arts.
President Brooks and Executive Director Jennifer Disano have been very active and successful in working with retirement communities to provide them classes and support to assist in recruiting new OLLI members. Additionally, on Monday, April 29, beginning at 5:00, OLLI is hosting the opening of a lending library at The Mather Retirement facility in Tysons Corner as they are opening their doors to new residents.
The Election Committee has identified five very qualified and talented candidates for the Board of Directors. The potential candidates will be speaking to OLLI members in person in TA-1 and on Zoom at the OLLI Annual Meeting May 3 at 10:00.
The OLLI Website Committee has been working diligently to make our website easier to navigate, more attractive to new members, and easier for our current membership to find things and re-register. Additionally, we have been making film clips of interviews, and short movies featuring life at OLLI and other club activities, for the website and outreach talks.
The OLLI Travel tour to Iceland in December for ten members was most successful. We would like to have more members this year for group travels to Albuquerque, NM, for the Balloon Festival, and to Japan and on to South Korea.
See you at the OLLI Annual Meeting in Tallwood TA-1 and on Zoom at 10:00 on Friday, May 3, to Meet the Candidates.
Make Plans to Meet Your Board of Directors Candidates
By Marilyn Harriman, 2024 Nominating Committee Chair
Have you marked your calendar for this year’s important membership assembly on Friday, May 3, at 10:00? If not, you’ll want to join other OLLI members to meet and learn about your 2024 OLLI Mason Board of Directors candidates. The meeting is a notable yearly experience for our organization and will be held in classroom TA-1 at Tallwood and via Zoom. You’ll have a unique opportunity to directly engage with the candidates, asking them questions about their views and vision for our organization. The full agenda for the meeting will include:
Reports from the OLLI President and Executive Director
Board of Directors Candidate Forum including:
1. Candidate responses to questions posed by the Nominating Chair
2. Candidate responses to questions posed by OLLI members
To join via Zoom, click here.
Meeting ID: 814 0285 6349
Passcode: 619159
Dial-in: 301-715-8592
Online voting for candidates begins after the candidate forum ends and extends from noon, Friday, May 3, through noon on Friday, May 17. Every active OLLI member will receive an email with a voting ballot and instructions on how to complete and return it by email.
To learn more about each candidate at the candidate page of the OLLI website, click this link.
Our Annual Meeting and Candidate Forum occur on the same day as our annual picnic. If you haven’t already, plan to spend the morning and early afternoon at OLLI’s Tallwood campus to learn and ask questions about our organization’s future and stay for the festive Cinco de Mayo celebration and annual picnic.
If you have questions about the election process, please get in touch with Marilyn Harriman, the nominating committee chair, at Mlwharriman74@gmail.com.
It’s time for our annual spring picnic. This year, the event falls on Friday, May 3, just two days before Cinco de Mayo. We’ll gather at our main campus, Tallwood, 4210 Roberts Road—TA-1, the annex, and outdoors, 1:00-2:30. Enjoy tacos (meat or vegetarian) provided by our OLLI administrators, as well as each other’s potluck contributions.
In addition to enjoying each other’s company, we’ll have festive celebration music, a free dance lesson from a professional dance company, and a chance to whack a pinata filled with sweet treats. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate spring and sample your OLLI friends’ food offerings.
You must register if you haven’t yet signed up for the event and want to join the fun. It’s easy! Go to the member portal and enter Event 1104: 2nd Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration & Picnic. Follow the prompts through check out.
Registration for this event closes on April 30. All participants must sign in at the check-in table.
Each guest is asked to bring a Tex-Mex dish to share based on your last name in the alphabet:
A-H: Side dish I-R: Dessert S-Z: Salad
To mitigate germs, all potluck items must be served using tongs, serving spoons, serving forks, or toothpicks. Please bring a serving utensil for your shared dish.
This is a great time to mingle with your OLLI friends, have a delicious lunch, and enjoy Mexico’s history and heritage. Hope to see you there!
The OLLI History Club will meet by Zoom on Wednesday, May 1, at 4:00, for a presentation by Ambassador Doug Silliman titled “Sargon to Saddam (and a bit more): The Histories and Cultures of Iraq.” Mr. Silliman was a career ForeignService officer who served as the United States’ Ambassador to Kuwait from 2014 to 2016 and the United States’ Ambassador to Iraq from 2016 to 2019. He received the Presidential Distinguished Service Award in 2018 and currently serves as President of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, D.C. He knows the Middle East intimately and will be able to share his unique insights into the history of the region.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate the OLLI Zoom discussion on May 1 at 4:00. Topic for May 1: What does Spring Cleaning mean today?
We all remember the ritual of spring cleaning from our childhoods. Beds were stripped, curtains were washed as well as windows, rugs hung outside to air, and other tasks completed that were difficult to accomplish during the winter. What does spring cleaning mean to us today? Do you have annual rituals saved for the spring? Or is it merely the time of year that you switch your closet around and take wool to the dry cleaner?
Join us Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 on the 24/7 Chat Line to share your thoughts.
Over the years, many of us have likely been a part of a Wolf Trap audience, but looking out from that stage toward the seats and beyond offers a whole different perspective! This spring, 46 excited OLLI members entered Stage Door Right at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts for an outstanding tour led by Park Ranger Will Rifenbark.
Ranger Will took us through the backstage area, stopping along the way to describe how the stage is adapted for various performances and to name some of the many productions and performers who have appeared on that stage. Did you know that there is a maze of hallways and rooms downstairs where there are dressing rooms, a cafeteria, pool tables, and a lounge where performers can relax? The hallway walls display some of the many famous personalities who have appeared on the Wolf Trap stage.
Following the tour, members had the opportunity to enjoy lunch together at the Bear Branch Tavern in Vienna. In all, it was an enjoyable morning!
World turns soft, calm, mysterious
Lone walker, in nature's embrace
Purple martins, swirling in the sky
Descend into tree branches
Chittering voices fall silent
A moment of rest and reset
A glimpse into the unknown
Time to reflect, rebirth new ideas
The day is gone, night is yet to unfold
Dream of adventures ahead
Listen to the whisper of the soul
Plan to bring the whisper to life
October the golden month
Imagine epic journeys,
Over land and sea,
Basking in warmer climes
Promise of a tropical buffet.
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 the CFA ticket page or 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 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.
Bamberg Symphony with Hélène Grimaud
Sat, Apr 27, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $75, $65, $45.
Brian Ganz: A Chopin Recital
Sat, May 4, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
The Hylton Performing Arts Center’s 14th Anniversary Gala
Sat, Apr 27
6:00 Reception in the Didlake Grand Foyer
7:30 Dinner, Honoree Tribute, and Auction
9:00 to 11:00 Desserts and drinks
Admission: $350.
The New Dominion Choraliers Ceili: An Irish Music Festival
Sun, Apr 28, 5:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50.
Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler! Featuring Doreen Ketchens
Sat, May 4, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30.
Northern Virginia Ballet: Cinderella
Sun, May 5, 2:00 and 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $35 Adult, $25 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 Apr 27
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 29
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue Apr 30
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 2
11:50 am
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri May 3
10:00 am
1:00 pm
1:00 pm
2:30 pm
Annual Business Meeting
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Caregivers Group – online
Sat May 4
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon May 6
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue May 7
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed May 8
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
Tallwood Book Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 9
11:50 am
4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri May 10
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
1:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Cooking Club – off-site
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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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:ollidev2.earthcare.com/" without the quotes.
Dr. Peter Henriques, Mason Emeritus Professor of History, Analyzes George Washington’s Drive to Become Commander of the American Revolutionary War Army: Large Class in TA‑1, April 10.
Theater Lovers' Group Upcoming Events and Volunteer Opportunity
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group
On Wednesday, April 24, at 4:00, the Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) will meet Castleton Festival Co-founder via Zoom.
Co-founder Dietlinde Maazel will be on hand to tell us the wonderful story of the founding of Castleton Festival in Castleton, Virginia, located in the lush, green, rolling hills of nearby Rappahannock County. You might be surprised to learn about the diversity of musical and theatrical offerings available to us a mere hour's drive from Fairfax. Look for the link in OLLI's daily schedule under Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) club meeting. Open to all OLLI members.
On Sunday, May 5, at 2:00, TLG will see The Heiress of Hawtrey Hall performed by City of Fairfax Theater Company.
Who doesn't love an English Regency romantic comedy, especially when it was written by a young local playwright? Giggle out loud at the humorous escapades of insistent suitors and meddling family members that Heiress Grace Coventry deals with as she protects her beloved Hawtrey Hall and fights for financial independence. Dinner after the show. Group ticket price TBD. Email Norma at njreck@cs.com for more information or to sign up.
Needed: Theatrical Audio Describers Volunteers; Training Provided Free, See Shows for Free
Contact Marianne Metz at themelodylingers@gmail.com for more information and to sign up for auditions in April.
The Metropolitan Washington Ear, Inc. (MWE), a non-profit organization, provides reading and information services for the blind and visually impaired throughout the DMV area, and specifically to major theaters. During the month of April, they are seeking volunteers to audition to be Audio Describers (AD). Those selected will go through AD training the weekend of May 31.
Theatrical Audio Describers learn to verbally describe visual aspects of a performance such as sets, costumes, and action on the stage that help the visually challenged to "see" the play as well as hear it. ADs are volunteer positions. Tickets to shows are free.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate the OLLI Zoom discussion on April 24 at 4:00.
The topic for April 24: Memories of O.J. Simpson. How did you react when you heard the news of O.J.'s death? Do you remember the coverage of the white Ford Bronco being chased on LA freeways? And the trial that seemed to go on forever? Seems that 150 million Americans watched the verdict announced on TV. There have been several news articles on what we learned or should have learned from that verdict.
Join us Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 on the 24/7 Chat Line to share your thoughts.
Did you know that eclipse glasses can be recycled? Astronomers Without Borders is collecting them and distributing them to other continents for future eclipse viewing, especially in areas where there is little funding to purchase the glasses for the populace.
If you still have those glasses and would like to donate them, there is now a labeled collection box in the Tallwood social room to receive them. Please deposit them by April 25, so we can get them to the collection site while they are still preparing distribution lots. Thank you.
The April 2024 Photo of the Month theme was Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. We selected John Olsen's photo "Blue Angels," 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 Back Back to Top of Page
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Our Passage
in my new yard
sits an ancient
chipped Buddha
half-buried and
overgrown with ivy
how many families
have watched the flowers
around that statue
bloom bold
then fade away
what is it like to kneel
half submerged
under crisp moon rises
embedded in creeping moss
thru rolling decades
in the shrill dark
can it hear the deep dirt
and sense the pressure
that time and rust
wreak on all
our proud structures
maybe we should
have remained
savanna wanderers
with itchy feet
leaving only
rocky foot tracks
to mark our passage
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.
Small Island Big Song
Sat, Apr 20, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
The Okee Dokee Brothers
Sun, Apr 21, 10:30 and 1:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
Bamberg Symphony with Hélène Grimaud
Sat, Apr 27, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $65, $65, $45.
Mason Opera, Spring 2024: Mozart’s The Impresario and Steven Stucky’s The Classical Style: An Opera (of Sorts)
Fri, Apr 19, 8:00
Sat, Apr 20, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Apr 21, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior.
Mason Wind Symphony Concert: The Blue Marble: An Earth Concertvation Experience
Thu, Apr 25, 6:30 to 9:30
6:30-7:45 Sustainability Marketplace Opens to the Public 6:30-7:30 Pre-Concert Discussion: Mission eARTh – A call to action for artists and audiences in Earth Conservation
8:00-9:30 Wind Symphony Concert
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 Adult, $8 Senior.
Mason School of Dance: Spring: Dance Innovations
Fri, Apr 26, 2:00 and 8:00
Sat, Apr 27, 2:00 and 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20 Adult, $16 Senior.
The United States Army Band: Red, White, and Blue
Fri, Apr 19, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: Free on a first-come, first-served basis, with doors opening at 7:00.
Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen
Sat, Apr 20, 5:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30.
Virginia National Ballet: Led Zeppelin
Sat, Apr 20, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $45, $40, $35.
Ordway Ballet: Whodunnit? A Murder Mystery Ballet
Sun, Apr 21, 1:00 and 5:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30, $27, $24 Adult; $28, $25, $22 Senior.
Matinee Idylls: Bridging the Gap
Wed, Apr 24; Lunch, 12:30, Concert 1:30
Gregory Family Theater
Lunch, concert, and dessert reception: $65
Concert and dessert reception only: $40.
The Hylton Performing Arts Center’s 14th Anniversary Gala
Sat, Apr 27
6:00 Reception in the Didlake Grand Foyer
7:30 Dinner, Honoree Tribute, and Auction
9:00 to 11:00 Desserts and drinks
Admission: $350.
The New Dominion Choraliers Ceili: An Irish Music
Festival
Sun, Apr 28, 5:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50.
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 Apr 20
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Apr 22
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue Apr 23
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 24
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Apr 25
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Reston Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Apr 26
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
1:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Crafts and Conversation
Grab ’n’ Gab Coffee Klatch
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Photography Club
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Sat Apr 27
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 29
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue Apr 30
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu May 2
11:50 am
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats Club – online
Fri May 3
10:00 am
1:00 pm
1:00 pm
2:30 pm
Annual Business Meeting
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Caregivers Group – 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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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:ollidev2.earthcare.com/" without the quotes.
Christopher Johnston, Northern Virginia Community College Instructor and NOVA Symphony Orchestra Music Director, Gave an Enjoyable Presentation on Leonard Bernstein, Composer, Conductor, Pianist, and Teacher, with Piano Accompaniment, April 5
The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS) on Saturday, April 20, 2024, in person and via Zoom. The Zoom session opens at 12:45.
Finding No-cost Electric Charging Stations—Presented by John Krout
If you own an electric vehicle (EV) or pluggable hybrid EV (PHEV), or you anticipate owning one soon, you may be surprised to learn that car-charging stations are closer than you think, and some offer that service at zero cost.
John Krout will introduce you to three apps that you can use at home or on the road to identify car charging stations, and especially zero-cost car charging stations. Your presenter now drives his second PHEV and has found and used zero-cost car charging stations in Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Delaware. He will identify types of businesses that use zero-cost charging services to attract customers, and two sites in Virginia that have the greatest cluster of zero-cost car chargers in the entire metro region.
John 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.
Learn in 30: Demystifying VPN—Presented by Roger Fujii
This will be an attempt to explain (well, as much as can be done in 30 minutes) what a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is, what it does and does not do, what types of VPN are out there, and list some use cases. While there won't be time to evaluate the many different offerings, this should help you to decide what kind of VPN you might want.
Roger Fujii has helped OLLI with technology challenges for its email and LAN systems since 2006.
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 earlier in the 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 389574 (Note: enter passcode with NO spaces) or enter meeting ID 857 2717 9449 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode (preferred method), or dial in at 301-715-8592.
By Marilyn Harriman, Walk & Talk Club Co-Coordinator
Seventeen members of OLLI Mason’s Walk & Talk Club donned safety glasses and gazed at the stunning views of the eclipse on April 8.
Some of OLLI’s Walk & Talk Club participants find a comfortable space at Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area to enjoy the unfolding solar eclipse (Photo by Richard Crawford)
Club members met at the south loop of Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area Trail in Lorton and traversed hills and dales as clouds gave way to the sun and spectacular views of the moon covering 87% of the sun. It was a walk to remember!
The club meets most weeks throughout the year and explores various locations across Fairfax County, offering a diverse range of walking experiences. Members are free to walk at their own pace, with some choosing a brisk stride and others opting for a more leisurely stroll.
The club’s next walk will be in Fairfax City, starting at Draper Drive Park on April 17 at 10:00.
If you’d like to join us, you can sign up through the member portal by typing “Spring Walk and Talk” in the search box. Members receive weekly updates about upcoming walks, including directions and forecasted weather conditions. All walkers are required to be registered to participate. Club members enjoy getting fresh air, exercising, and making friends with other OLLI Mason members. To learn more, see page 35 in the spring catalog.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate the OLLI Zoom discussion on April 17 at 4:00.
Topic for April 17: Book Club Ins & Outs. Are you in a book club? The same book club for many years? What are the demographics of the group? How does your club select the books to discuss? Are you still happy with the books selected and with the process of choosing? Or have you lost interest in the club? At what point do you step away? How do you break up with your book club?
Join us every Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 on the 24/7 Chat Line. Registration is not required—or even possible! All members are welcome to drop in.
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A., Mason Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
As noted in prior E‑News issues, Mason’s Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music is hosting several jazz concerts this spring, some ticketed and some free! Listed below are two events coming up toward the end of April.
Steel Pan Ensemble, Latin American Ensemble, and Braddock Road Brass Band Ensemble: Monday April 15, 8:00
(Previously Announced)
Center for the Arts
Join the Mason Steel Pan Ensemble, directed by Victor Provost, the DOWNBEAT award-winning Latin American Ensemble, directed by Dr. Juan Megna, and the Braddock Road Brass Band, directed by Graham Breedlove, in a celebration of music around the world! From New Orleans to the Caribbean to Brazil, this concert has something for everyone! Free and open to the public; no tickets or registration required.
Mason Jazz Ensemble at Blues Alley: Tuesday April 23, 7:00
Blues Alley, 1073 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington DC 20007
Jim Carroll directs the Mason Jazz Ensemble at Washington D.C.'s historic jazz club, BLUES ALLEY! This very special performance in the nation's oldest jazz supper club is one you don't want to miss! Tickets: $25—Click here.
my life is like a butterfly’s i begin from egg to caterpillar
my identity and mettle not yet
revealed, but when my body
grows, I disappear into
my protective cocoon.
emerging from my chrysalis cradle
i stretch my wings, colorful, alluring,
soar on breezy updrafts,
collect wisdom as i go,
inspire those who follow,
teach them to soar.
expand my limits
fulfill my purpose
seed the next
generation.
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.
Martha Graham Dance Company
Sat, Apr 13, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
Small Island Big Song
Sat, Apr 20, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place in the Center for the Arts, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
The Okee Dokee Brothers
Sun, Apr 21, 10:30 and 1:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
Mason Opera, Spring 2024: Mozart’s The Impresario and Steven Stucky’s The Classical Style: An Opera (of Sorts)
Fri, Apr 19, 8:00
Sat, Apr 20, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Apr 21, 3:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior.
Reduced Shakespeare Company
Sat, Apr 13, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $30.
The United States Army Band: Red, White, and Blue
Fri, Apr 19, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: Free on a first come, first served basis, with doors opening at 7:00.
Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen
Sat, Apr 20, 5:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $30.
Virginia National Ballet: Led Zeppelin
Sat, Apr 20, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $45, $40, $35.
Ordway Ballet: Whodunnit? A Murder Mystery Ballet
Sun, Apr 21, 1:00 and 5:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $30, $27, $24 Adult; $28, $25, $22 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 Apr 13
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 15
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Apr 16
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Apr 17
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Apr 18
11:50 am
4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Apr 19
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
1:00 pm
2:30 pm
3:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Caregivers Group – online
60s Dance Party
Sat Apr 20
10:30 am
1:00 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Apr 22
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue Apr 23
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 24
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Theater Lovers’ Group – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Apr 25
4:00 pm
4:30 pm
Reston Book Club – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Apr 26
9:30 am
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
12:00 noon
1:00 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Crafts and Conversation
Grab ’n’ Gab Coffee Klatch
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Photography Club
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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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:ollidev2.earthcare.com/" without the quotes.
Candidates Announced for 2024 Board of Directors Election
By Marilyn Harriman, 2024 BOD Nominating Committee Chair
The 2024 Board of Directors (BoD) Nominating Committee is excited to announce this year’s candidates for five BoD positions open in May. Elected directors serve for three years and may serve two consecutive terms.
This year, we have four incumbent candidates. The four incumbents are ending their first term and running for a second three-year term.
Each incumbent actively contributes to helping OLLI meet its strategic goals. They are Toni Acton, Dick Crawford, Camille Hodges, and Zach Teich. The nominating committee has recruited a fifth candidate, Suresh Mohla, to our list of candidates. Suresh volunteers as a teacher and a member of the Science, Technology, and Health Program Planning Group, and of the Health and Safety Advisory Committee. Candidate statements for all five will be published on our website, in the classroom “Green Rooms,” and in the OLLI Communicator throughout April. Voting by electronic ballot begins on May 3.
At this point in the election cycle, OLLI members may run for office through a signature petition. Members who choose to run by petition must collect signatures from a minimum of 5% of our active membership (46+ signatures). The final day for an OLLI member to submit a signature petition to be included on the ballot for this year’s BoD election is April 23. Petitions must be presented to the nominating chair, Marilyn Harriman, or OLLI Administrator Susan Todenhoft (Tallwood office). The main prerequisites to becoming a candidate for election to the Board are being an active OLLI member, a commitment to fostering OLLI’s mission, and a willingness to attend Board meetings. Additional attributes are in our OLLI policy guide.
Jennifer Disano Announces Travel Opportunities at Kick-Off Coffee
By Marilyn Harriman, Diversions Chair
OLLI Mason is jetting off to lands near and far this year and next. Executive Director Jennifer Disano announced at our March 21 spring kick-off coffee that our staff and Board of Directors are working with travel companies to offer trips for our members. Some already took advantage of the opportunity in December when they flew to Iceland. In the fall, members can experience the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Jennifer said that the New Mexico trip and additional trips can be found on the Travel page of the OLLI website, and the page will be updated as trips are added.
Other highlights of the coffee event included a popular activities fair that Debby Mossburg, Board member and outreach chair, organized in TA‑2 and the Annex. With representatives from 27 clubs and organizations stationed in both locations, the rooms quickly filled with OLLI members seeking information and ways to sign up.
The formal program began with standing room only in TA‑1 as President Lillian Brooks welcomed new members and introduced Board members who were present. Lillian announced the five candidates running for this year’s Board of Directors election in May and urged everyone to vote.
Program Planning Committee chair Kathryn Russell invited us to review our spring catalog again and consider adding another class or two. She reminded us that registration is ongoing even though the spring term has begun.
Although the first day of spring started chilly, the camaraderie inside the Tallwood campus was heartwarming. The Diversions Committee helped elevate the mood with homemade baked goods, lemonade, and iced tea, and our OLLI staff provided hot coffee and tea.
(In addition to the photos at the top of this issue, more kick-off coffee photos, uncropped and in full resolution are available at this link.)
OLLI Mason Members Participate in an Intergenerational Conversation About Israel and Palestine
By Nancy Klein, Communications and Program Associate
The Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University, along with The University Libraries and The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University, collaborated to host an intergenerational conversation. This event, on March 20, utilized the “Dialogue & Difference Project” developed by Dr. Patricia Maulden of the Carter School and now carried forward by Isaac Jasper. OLLI Mason members and Mason Carter School students explored their lived experiences and had the opportunity to speak and listen to feelings, opinions, and thoughts regarding the current events surrounding Israel and Palestine.
OLLI Mason Executive Director Jennifer Disano called the event “a major success and a model for future intergenerational conversations across the Mason campus and beyond.” OLLI member Pat Bangs agreed, stating that the event “was an incredible opportunity to meet and admire students who want to make a difference. I was reminded of the diversity of this generation and have great hope for their future contributions. It was a unique and valuable opportunity for OLLI members and students to discuss issues that are important to us, in a setting that allowed passionate, conflicting opinions to be voiced in a respectful manner.” OLLI member Richard Crawford seconded the value of the event. “It was a rare opportunity to listen and learn with Generation Z, gaining fascinating insights on how social media influences their understanding. I was impressed with their analytical approach to conflict resolution; what they may lack in experience is offset with their critical thinking and intelligence.”
Event participants voiced enthusiasm for planning and participating in future intergenerational conversations, recognizing their value and significance. Anne Osterman, Dean of Libraries, stated, “The Libraries were honored to host and provide informational resources for this event. It is important to our mission to support learning and scholarly conversation. Not only did this event create a meaningful intergenerational dialogue, but it also provided a real-world opportunity for student facilitators to practice their skills. We hope to have more of this kind of event in the future.”
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group
Discount Tickets for OLLI Members at ExPats Theatre this Weekend Karin Rosnizeck, founder of ExPats Theatre, which performs at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, located at 1333 H Street, NE, D.C., has given us a discount for tickets to Migraaaaants or There's Too Many People on This Damn Boat now playing at ExPats through April 7. To purchase discount tickets, go to ExPatsTheatre.com, then click on the BUY TICKETS button, and enter the Promo ARTIST (one word, singular, all caps). Migraaaaants is a dark comedy based on real experiences of people who have migrated. The show illustrates ExPats motto: "A little theater grappling with big ideas."
Tuesday, April 9 at 11:50: Join us to Meet Representatives from Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Virginia Founded during the Depression by unemployed actors, Barter Theatre is the nation's longest running professional theater. Katy Brown and Terrence Jackson will meet with us via Zoom Tuesday from 11:50 to 1:15 to tell us about its storied long history, famous actors who got their start there, and the fascinating, innovative programs and events being held there today. Get the link in OLLI's daily schedule under Theater Potpourri class.
NEW! Sunday, May 5: Theater Lovers to see Matinee of The Heiress of Hawtrey Hall A Regency romantic comedy, The Heiress of Hawtrey Hall was written by a young local playwright, Ellen Dean Price. It will be performed in Old Town Hall in the City of Fairfax by the City of Fairfax Theatre Company at 2:00. Grace Coventry, the young heiress of Hawtrey Hall, is grappling with a dilemma: How can she protect Hawtrey Hall and maintain her financial independence against meddling relations and insistent suitors? Or will she get trapped in an unwelcome match? Group rate tickets will be announced shortly. Dinner after the show is optional.
For more information and to sign up for the May 5 show, email me at njreck@cs.com.
It’s time to put on your dancing shoes! Come dressed in your favorite retro threads or come as you are in 2024 and enjoy the sounds of the 1950s, ’60s, and ‘70s at our dance party on April 19 from 3:00-5:00. TA‑1 at Tallwood will be transformed into a dance hall with all the familiar accessories—a wall to stand against, chairs for chatting with friends, a dance area, and a snack table.
D.J. Captain Dave will spin the platters while we reminisce, listen, and, if you’d like, dance to the tunes we rocked and strolled to when we were a bit younger. The Diversions Committee will provide refreshments—party food like you used to eat—and liquid thirst-quenchers.
If you haven’t registered yet and want to join the party, register through your member portal for event #1101. There is no cost, but we need to know how many are coming so we can plan for the food and drinks.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate an OLLI Zoom discussion on April 10 at 4:00.
For April 10, the discussion topic is Cruising. Everyone has an opinion on cruise trips: some love them; some cannot tolerate them; some fear sea-sickness. What is your opinion? Large ship, small ship, casual style, formal evenings, casinos and night club shows, evening learning lectures, adventure tours, relaxed days at sea—various styles abound. What do you prefer? What little hints do you have to share about how to make the most of your cruise?
Join us every Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 on the 24/7 Chat Line. Registration is not required—or even possible! All members are welcome.
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A., Mason Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
As noted in prior E‑News issues, Mason’s Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music is hosting several jazz concerts this spring, some ticketed and some free! Listed below are two events coming up this month.
Mason Jazz Vocal Night: Monday April 8, 8:00 (announced in a previous issue)
Center for the Arts
Tickets: Click here.
Join Dr. Darden Purcell, the Mason Jazz Voice Studio, the DOWNBEAT award-winning Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble, and Forest Park High School Platinum Vocal Jazz (director Lara Brittain) for an evening of swinging standards and classic hits from the Great American Songbook. $12 General Public, $8 Seniors, $5 Students
Steel Pan Ensemble, Latin American Ensemble, and Braddock Road Brass Band Ensemble: Monday April 15, 8:00
Center for the Arts
Join the Mason Steel Pan Ensemble, directed by Victor Provost, the DOWNBEAT award-winning Latin American Ensemble, directed by Dr. Juan Megna, and the Braddock Road Brass Band, directed by Graham Breedlove, in a celebration of music around the world! From New Orleans to the Caribbean to Brazil, this concert has something for everyone! Free and open to the public; no tickets or registration required.
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.
Mutts Gone Nuts
Sat, Apr 6, 11:00 and 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Three Great Romantics
Sun, Apr 7, 7:00
A pre-performance “Young Artists Musicale,” featuring piano students of Northern Virginia Music Teachers Association members, will take place from 6:00 to 6:30 in the main lobby of the Center for the Arts
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
Martha Graham Dance Company
Sat, Apr 13, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion will take place on the third level of the Center for the Arts lobby, 45 minutes prior to curtain.
Concert Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
Chorale Broadway Showcase: Broadway at the Movies Sat, Apr 6, 2:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior, $5 Students.
American Festival Pops Orchestra: American Icons
Sat, Apr 6, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
Mutts Gone Nuts
Sun, Apr 7, 1:00 and 4:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $15.
Reduced Shakespeare Company
Sat, Apr 13, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $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., bolded below. The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
Sat Apr 6
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 8
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue Apr 9
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Apr 10
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Tallwood Book Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Mah Jongg Club
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Apr 11
11:40 am
4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Apr 12
8:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
1:00 pm
Teacher Appreciation Event
Mah Jongg Club
Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Healthcare Advisory Workgroup
Cooking Club
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Sat Apr 13
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 15
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Apr 16
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club
Wed Apr 17
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
Mah Jongg Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Apr 18
11:50 am
4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Apr 19
9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
1:00 pm
2:30 pm
3:00 pm
Crafts and Conversation Board of Directors Meeting
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Caregivers Group
60s Dance Party
Sat Apr 20
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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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:ollidev2.earthcare.com/" without the quotes.
Doug Kammerer, Chief Meteorologist at Storm Team 4 on NBC 4, presented an informative talk on DC Metro area weather broadcasting, March 19; see article below for description.
Notes from the March 15 Meeting of the Board of Directors
By Bob Heyer, Board of Directors Secretary
On Friday, March 15, at 10:00, President Lillian Brooks opened the OLLI Board of Directors meeting with 14 Directors, Jennifer Disano (Executive Director), and 11 OLLI members/staff in TA-1 and on Zoom.
The meeting was started with a guest presentation by Ox Hill Company on their proposed Art Complex to be located on Sager Avenue and University Drive in Fairfax. A follow-up meeting is scheduled to understand the details and potential use by OLLI Mason.
As a follow-on to Mason announcing that their Loudoun campus is closing this summer, four OLLI Board members met with Loudoun and Reston members. They discussed interests, ideas, and opportunities to continue holding OLLI classes in the Loudoun area. The Board will continue to work to identify alternative options.
The Nominating Committee, led by Marilyn Harriman, has identified five potential candidates for this year’s new Board of Directors replacements. Suresh Mohla is well qualified and running for his first term along with current Board members Dick Crawford, Toni Acton, Camille Hodges, and Zach Teich for a second term. A Board term is for three years.
OLLI Mason currently has 919 members. Treasurer Debbie Engleson reported that we are on track and ahead of our spending curve. A new Financial Committee was formed and is being led by Debbie Engleson to identify potential membership pricing options that will fit with our evolving business model. Additionally, we are continuing to work with continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) to provide classes for cost and selling memberships to new CCRC clients. We are also working with Fairfax County Public Library system for a fee, and looking into Loudoun and Prince William Library systems for future business.
The Board earlier approved a series of short video interviews and stories to use for the OLLI website and public relations; an OLLI group is identifying people and scenarios to shoot. The video recording will take place at the Tallwood campus during the first week in April. If you are on campus, you may be an extra in a video.
If you are interested in hearing the Board discussing our future plans, come to the Board meetings at Tallwood or via Zoom the third Friday of the month at 10:00. We welcome members to hear the Board in action.
On Wednesday, April 3, at 4:00, the History Club will meet by Zoom for a presentation by Jim Anderson titled “The Conquest of the Sioux and the Zulu: A Study inComparative Frontier History.” Jim’s presentation will explore the similarities and differences between two events that occurred within the same 19th-century decade but on two different continents and involving four different cultures. This is a form of historiography known as “cross-national comparative history.” Jim will tell the stories of two expansionist, imperialistic powers, the United States and Great Britain, and the military clashes that resulted from their attempts to conquer and subdue, respectively, theNative American Sioux and Cheyenne nations of the Great Plains and the Zulu Empire of Southern Africa. The "story within the story" will be a comparison of the Reno-Benteen Hill siege in Montana and the defense of Rorke's Drift in Natal.
On March 19, OLLI members filled TA-1 and were joined by 77 Zoom participants to enjoy an informative talk by Doug Kammerer, Storm Team 4’s Chief Meteorologist on NBC4. Doug grew up in Northern Virginia and holds a degree in meteorology from the University of Northern Colorado. He earned the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist seal from the American Meteorological Society, and also won eight Emmy Awards presented by the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
Doug enjoyed explaining pressure maps and online weather sites, and showing how the presence of mountains to our west helps keep the metro area weather mild compared to the Midwest in the winter. Nevertheless, in the summer and fall we do have weather from the Gulf with the possibility of southeast hurricanes.
Doug really enjoys the challenge of the metro area as things change many times during the year. Class participants were stimulated by his engaging and outgoing personality; they appreciated his willingness to answer questions. The photo of Doug Kammerer and Event Coordinator Stephanie Trachtenberg was taken by Mike Emery, March 19.
The Tallwood Book Club will meet at the Tallwood campus on Wednesday, April 10 at 1:30. Our April book choice is The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell.
We will discuss The Queen of Dirt Island by Donal Ryan in May.
This Theater Lovers' Group Visits Three Local Theaters
By Norma Jean Reck, Coordinator, Theater Lovers’ Group
Meet the Founder of ExPats Theatre on Tuesday, April 2 from 11:50 to 1:15.
Artistic Director Karin Rosnizeck founded ExPats Theatre in 2019 to "bring international dramatic works to D.C. that are thought-provoking, provide fresh perspective, and offer a platform for audience engagement." Besides discussing the history and her vision for the theater, she will talk about the current show – Migraaaaants or There's Too Many of us in this Damn Boat – which BroadwayWorld says is "a topical subject at an important time in U.S. history." She has offered OLLI members discount tickets for the show. She will also talk about the other fascinating shows on the horizon. Find the link to the class in OLLI's Daily Schedule for Theater Potpourri.
On Sunday, April 14 at 2:00 Providence Players Perform Surviving Grace.
Playwright Trish Vradenburg writes about the emotional experiences – often humorous – of taking care of her mother who has Alzheimer's. Providence Players will perform Surviving Grace at the James Lee Community Center, 2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church. Senior tickets are $18. Purchase them online at providenceplayers.org. Young Kim is planning an optional dinner after the show.
Meet the Co-Founder of Castleton Festival on Wednesday, April 24 at 4:00.
In 2009, Dietlinde T. Maazel co-founded the Castleton Festival in Castleton, Virginia, in nearby Rappahannock County, to introduce classical music, theater, and opera to the rolling hills of Virginia. She will tell us how it has grown into a cultural center that offers chamber music, opera, theater, and art, plus many opportunities to see and hear international artists perform. Join the Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) members via Zoom to hear all about this cultural gem just a short drive from Fairfax. Get the link in OLLI's Daily Schedule for TLG meeting.
Theater Lovers' Group with the cast of Working at Creative Cauldron March 3 Matinee. (Photo by Mary Mudd, March 3, 2024)
“May love and laughter light your heart. May good and faithful friends be with you wherever you roam.”
More than two dozen OLLI members celebrated this Irish friendship toast at Auld Shebeen Restaurant in Fairfax on March 13. We commemorated the patron saint of Ireland with traditional fare as well as more modern Irish cuisine. We shared stories, laughed, listened, and sang to iconic melodies like Danny Boy and Molly Malone. It was a festiveexperience and the perfect way to chase away the end-of-winter blues! (Photos by Marilyn Harriman, March 13, 2024)
By Darden Purcell, D.M.A., Mason Director of Jazz Studies, Jazz Voice
As noted in a prior E-News, Mason’s Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music is hosting several jazz concerts this spring, some ticketed and some free! Listed below are two events coming up in early April.
The Jazz Workshop: Wednesday April 3, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Previously announced—Free and open to the public; no tickets or registration required Click this link.
"Sing a Song of Song" – The Jazz Workshop, directed by John Kocur, will present Harlem, cool, fusion, and contemporary jazz styles in nonet and tentet arrangements by jazz masters Duke Ellington, Gerry Mulligan, John Scofield, and Kenny Garrett.
Mason Jazz Vocal Night: Monday April 8, 8:00
Center for the Arts
Tickets: Click Here
Join Dr. Darden Purcell, the Mason Jazz Voice Studio, the DOWNBEAT award-winning Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble,and Forest Park High School Platinum Vocal Jazz (director Lara Brittain) for an evening of swinging standards and classic hits from the Great American Songbook.
By Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch, Co‑Moderators
Continuing our Wednesday Conversations series, Team Bloch (Brenda Bloch-Young and Doris Bloch) will moderate an OLLI Zoom discussion on April 3 at 4:00.
For April 3, the discussion topic is Anachronisms in Speech. Old language habits die hard, and we continue to refer to old-fashioned objects in our everyday speaking. Examples: "put through the wringer" (clothes wringer?), "Carbon Copy" (when was the last time you saw a carbon paper copy?), "a one lb. coffee can" (now more likely containing 15 ounces), "taping a show" (what kind of tape are you using? Scotch?). English is full of such outdated references—let's see how many we can dredge up (with a steam shovel?)—"a penny for your thoughts."
Join us on any Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 in March on the 24/7 Chat Line to discuss our chosen topic. Or suggest a new topic for us to cover—we would love to hear from you.
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 atthis 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.
Artists in Conversation: Small Island Big Song
Tue, Apr 2, 7:00
Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center
3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030
Admission: Free.
Mutts Gone Nuts
Sat, Apr 6, 11:00 and 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Three Great Romantics
Sun, Apr 7, 7:00
A pre-performance “Young Artists Musicale,” featuring piano students of Northern Virginia Music Teachers Association members, will take place from 6 to 6:30 in the main lobby of the Center for the Arts at George Mason University.
Concert Hall
Admission: $50, $43, $29.
Mason Empty Bowls
Wed, Apr 3, 7:00
Center for the Arts
Admission: $50 ($25 in benefits) includes dinner, dessert, open bar, and handmade ceramic bowl.
Register at: this link
Jazz Workshop Concert Spring 2024
Wed, Apr 3, 8:00
Harris Theatre
Admission: Free.
Chorale Broadway Showcase: Broadway at the Movies Sat, Apr 6, 2:00 and 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $20 Adult, $15 senior, $5 Students.
American Festival Pops Orchestra: American Icons
Sat, Apr 6, 8:00
A pre-performance discussion begins one hour prior to the performance.
Merchant Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
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 Mar 30
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 1
9:30 am
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Tue Apr 2
1:00 pm
4:30 pm
Stay Active and Independent for Life – online
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Apr 3
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
2:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Board Game Club
Bridge Club
Memoir and More Writing Group – online
History Club – online
Spanish Club – online
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Apr 4
11:50 am
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Ethnic Eats – online
Fri Apr 5
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
2:30 pm
Mah Jongg Club
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Caregivers Group
Sat Apr 6
10:30 am
Tai Chi Club – online
Mon Apr 8
9:30 am
4:00 pm
What’s in the Daily News? – online
Family History/Genealogy Club – online
Tue Apr 9
4:30 pm
Tai Chi Club – online
Wed Apr 10
1:30 pm
1:45 pm
1:45 pm
4:00 pm
4:00 pm
Tallwood Book Club
Bridge Club
Spanish Club
Mah Jongg Club
Conversation with Team Bloch – online
Thu Apr 11
11:40 am
4:30 pm
All the News
Tai Chi Club – online
Fri Apr 12
8:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
11:30 am
1:00 pm
Teacher Appreciation Event
Mah Jongg Club
Photography Club – online
Crafts and Conversation
Classic Literature Club – online
Homer, etc. – online
Healthcare Advisory Workgroup
Cooking Club
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: ollienewseditor@gmail.com. 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:ollidev2.earthcare.com/" without the quotes.
Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Northern Virginia, the Alan Cheuse International Writers Center, Fall for the Book, Watershed Lit Center for Literary Engagement and Publishing Practice, the College of Visual & Performing Arts (CVPA), and so many more, shared in the curation of The Mather’s beautiful new lending library. At the celebration residents learned about community connections and partner organizations, explored OLLI Mason offerings, and 
listened to an amazing presentation and performance by Dewberry School of Music Pianist Samuel Beckett Kim. Special thanks to Jen Morrow of Bards Alley for her expert work in the selection and stocking of the library shelves. Also, thanks to the The Mather staff for all their hard work! Kudos to everyone!
free dance lesson from a professional dance company, and a chance to whack a pinata filled with sweet treats. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate spring and sample your OLLI friends’ food offerings.
The OLLI History Club will meet by Zoom on Wednesday, May 1, at 4:00, for a presentation by Ambassador Doug Silliman titled “Sargon to Saddam (and a bit more): The Histories and Cultures of Iraq.” Mr. Silliman was a career ForeignService officer who served as the United States’ Ambassador to Kuwait from 2014 to 2016 and the United States’ Ambassador to Iraq from 2016 to 2019. He received the Presidential Distinguished Service Award in 2018 and currently serves as President of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, D.C. He knows the Middle East intimately and will be able to share his unique insights into the history of the region.
Free and open to the public; no tickets or registration required.
i begin from egg to caterpillar
Karin Rosnizeck, founder of ExPats Theatre, which performs at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, located at 1333 H Street, NE, D.C., has given us a discount for tickets to Migraaaaants or There's Too Many People on This Damn Boat now playing at ExPats through April 7. To purchase discount tickets, go to 
ter Theatre is the nation's longest running professional theater. Katy Brown and Terrence Jackson will meet with us via Zoom Tuesday from 11:50 to 1:15 to tell us about its storied long history, famous actors who got their start there, and the fascinating, innovative programs and events being held there today. Get the link in OLLI's daily schedule under Theater Potpourri class.
e.
some ticketed and some free! Listed below are two events coming up this month.
On Wednesday, April 3, at 4:00, the History Club will meet by Zoom for a presentation by Jim Anderson titled “The Conquest of the Sioux and the Zulu: A Study inComparative Frontier History.” Jim’s presentation will explore the similarities and differences between two events that occurred within the same 19th-century decade but on two different continents and involving four different cultures. This is a form of historiography known as “cross-national comparative history.” Jim will tell the stories of two 
expansionist, imperialistic powers, the United States and Great Britain, and the military clashes that resulted from their attempts to conquer and subdue, respectively, theNative American Sioux and Cheyenne nations of the Great Plains and the Zulu Empire of Southern Africa. The "story within the story" will be a comparison of the Reno-Benteen Hill siege in Montana and the defense of Rorke's Drift in Natal.
international dramatic works to D.C. that are thought-provoking, provide fresh perspective, and offer a platform for audience engagement." Besides discussing the history and her vision for the theater, she will talk about the current show – Migraaaaants or There's Too Many of us in this Damn Boat – which BroadwayWorld says is "a topical subject at an important time in U.S. history." She has offered OLLI members discount tickets for the show. She will also talk about the other fascinating shows on the horizon. Find the link to the class in OLLI's Daily Schedule for Theater Potpourri.
On Sunday, April 14 at 2:00 Providence Players Perform Surviving Grace.
grown into a cultural center that offers chamber music, opera, theater, and art, plus many opportunities to see and hear international artists perform. Join the Theater Lovers' Group (TLG) members via Zoom to hear all about this cultural gem just a short drive from Fairfax. Get the link in OLLI's Daily Schedule for TLG meeting.
More than two dozen OLLI members celebrated this Irish friendship toast at Auld Shebeen Restaurant in Fairfax on March 13. We commemorated the patron saint of Ireland with traditional fare as well as more modern Irish cuisine. We shared stories, laughed, listened, and sang to iconic melodies like Danny Boy and Molly Malone. It was a festiveexperience and the perfect way to chase away the end-of-winter blues! (Photos by Marilyn Harriman, 
March 13, 2024)
Mulligan, John Scofield, and Kenny Garrett.