OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

April 16, 2021

• Alerts & Notices
• Fun Facts for OLLI’s 30-Year Anniversary
• Presentation to Mason’s School of Music
• Reston Book Club Meeting
• OLLI ChatLine Specific Topics and Times
• Photo of the Month
• Poet's Corner
• Letter to the Editor
• Arts & Music at George Mason
• Meetings & Clubs
• About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

• Reminder: The OLLI Personal Computer User Group (OPCUG) meets Saturday, April 17 (tomorrow), at 1:00; click here to join the webinar and use passcode 093811.
• Spring-term registration continues on a space-available basis (click here). A few spring-term courses have been added, changed, or canceled since catalog production; click here for a full list.
• Annual membership meeting and first day of voting in Board of Directors election, Friday, May 7; detailed information is available at this link.
• The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, April 23; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, April 20, at 6:00

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• Monday, April 19, 4:30-5:30—Your thoughts on returning to the classroom vs. staying on Zoom. How would you like to see OLLI's classes delivered post-pandemic? Contribute feedback on your preferences or suggestions for the transition
• Wednesday, April 21, 4:30-5:30—Do you think that George Mason University should change its name to disassociate with Mason's plantation history? What are your thoughts on changes to the local history names associated with the Confederate cause? Jefferson Davis Highway? John Mosby Highway? Robert E. Lee High School?

Photo of the Month

Streaking Fast RacerThe April 2021 Photo of the Month theme was Motion. We selected Edward Marion's photo "Streaking Fast Racer," which may also be viewed at this page. To view other photos by members of the Photography Club, visit the club's photo website.

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Letter to the Editor

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Meetings & Clubs

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April 9, 2021

• Alerts & Notices
• From the Desk of the Executive Director: Additional Benefits of OLLI Membership and Two Great Evening Events in April! 
• Irina Irchai Joins OLLI Staff
• Fun Facts for OLLI’s 30-Year Anniversary
• Computer Club
• Spring-Term Statistics–at the End of Priority Registration, March 11
• Coffee Klatch to Celebrate OLLI’s 30th Anniversary
• ChatLine News
• Poet's Corner
• Arts & Music at George Mason
• Meetings & Clubs
• About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

- You can help celebrate OLLI's 30th Anniversary by making a contribution of $30 (or more). Click here to make a donation.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director: Additional Benefits of OLLI Membership and Two Great Evening Events in April! 

• access to the University Libraries to conduct research, explore catalogs of music, art, literature, and so much more;
• free or discounted rates for online and socially-distanced performances at the Center for the Visual and Performing Arts.

• Mason Provost Mark Ginsberg has revived the Vision Series originated by Dr. Peter Stearns years ago. The new series has featured some of OLLI’s favorite teachers such as Dr. Cynthia Lum. There is just one more event available—A Decade Beyond the Arab Spring: New Challenges for U.S. Foreign Policy in the Middle East, April 19, 7:00–8:15, presented by Dr. Peter Mandaville, professor of international affairs in the Schar School of Policy & Government and director of the Ali Vural Ak Center for Global Islamic Studies, both at Mason (more information at this link). Click here to register.
• Fall for the Book: An Evening with American writer Kristin Hannah, Thursday, April 22, 7:00. Kristin Hannah will be in conversation with Tayla Burney, a longtime public radio producer in Washington, D.C. This event is brought to you by Fall for the Book and the Fairfax County Public Library (more information at this link). Register on Crowdcast for free here.

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Irina Irchai Joins OLLI Staff

Please welcome new OLLI staffer Irina Irchai, site assistant for online classes. Irina has spent the last 20+ years working in the translation industry as a translator, interpreter, cultural consultant, researcher, instructor, and a project manager. She has participated in high-stakes research and translation projects for the U.S. Department of State, Department of Defense, Bank of New York (BNY) Mellon, Lockheed Martin, Agency for International Development (USAID), and other government agencies and private corporations. This has allowed Irina to utilize her diverse educational background and experience in telecommunications, foreign languages, and educational psychology. Irina also regularly invests in her community in several ways. She is an enthusiastic crafter, and loves sharing her knowledge with others by teaching crochet classes both in-person and online as part of her business, ChicCustomCrochet. Through ChicCustomCrochet, Irina also helps to support Florida farmers and crafters at the Haile Farmers Market, Gainesville, FL, where she serves as treasurer on the Board of Directors. Additionally, she volunteers weekly at a rural Florida food bank, Children’s Table, Bronson, FL.

Fun Facts for OLLI’s 30-Year Anniversary

Computer Club

• obtain text from speech in the video
• edit the text (no speech to text conversion is perfect)
• merge the text into a video file.

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Spring-Term Statistics–at the End of Priority Registration, March 11

Coffee Klatch to Celebrate OLLI’s 30th Anniversary

ChatLine News

Meetings & Clubs

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April 2, 2021

• Alerts & Notices
• Please Support Friends of OLLI and $30 for 30th Anniversary Fundraisers
• Farewell to Alice Slayton Clark and Welcome to Nancy Klein
• Fun Facts for OLLI’s 30-Year Anniversary
• Notes from the March 19 Board Meeting
• Notice of Annual Meeting and Board of Directors Election
• History Club Topic is Forgotten Founders
• Computer Club Accepts Donation from PATACS
• Frank Van Riper to Speak to Photography Club
• Travelers Wanted
• Criminology Webinar Available via Eventbrite
• Poet's Corner
• Obituary: Waverly “Corky” Rainey 
• Arts & Music at George Mason
• Meetings & Clubs
• About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

• Correction: In the March 19 E-News, in an article on fall-term course proposals, a link to the OLLI course proposal form did not work. To access the form, click here.
• Reminder: There are three special musical events coming up in April at Mason’s Dewberry School of Music recommended by the Friends of Music at Mason. For details and an informative flyer, click this link.
• The next Grab ‘n’ Gab virtual coffee will be Friday, April 16, 1:00 to 2:30. It will feature a 30th anniversary trivia game developed by the OLLI Players. Register for event 1102 at the member portal.
• Spring-term registration continues on a space-available basis (click here). A few spring-term courses have been added, changed, or canceled since catalog production; click here for a full list.
• The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published April 9. Submissions are due by 6:00, Tuesday, April 6.

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By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director

Recently, the OLLI Board of Directors approved a resolution to raise funds during our 30th anniversary year. The $30 for the 30th campaign is intended to help offset increased costs of equipment for ongoing hybrid learning as explained in the following resolution:

“Since the beginning of COVID-19, OLLI members have not been able to attend in-person classes on any of its campuses. We transitioned to virtual learning via Zoom to allow continuity of program and other activities. Although members miss in-person classes and social gatherings, most have appreciated the addition of remote learning experiences via Zoom. They have enjoyed attending classes at all venues without having to travel to them. In addition, individuals residing in remote locations can attend classes, and some have become members. It is our intention to continue to provide virtual experiences as well as in-person classes, clubs and social events. This will allow for the evolution of our program to include not only in-person and Zoom learning, but also to step forward with hybrid classes. Hybrid classes will allow students to expand their learning opportunities by attending in person and also accessing instruction remotely.”

In order to achieve this goal, we need your help! Please give generously to the Friends of OLLI and especially to the $30 for 30-years campaign. Online donations are preferred. Click this link to Donate Today!

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By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director

Alice Slayton Clark, our beloved communications and program associate, is leaving OLLI  after eight years to re-enter her career in foreign policy with a new job in international trade policy. A dedicated and innovative staffer, Alice’s contributions have enriched and expanded OLLI’s program two-fold, improved communications both internal and external, and supported partnerships across Mason and the wider community. We thank Alice for her many years of dedication to OLLI and wish her all the best. Alice’s last day is April 8. Nancy Klein will replace Alice. We welcome Nancy and look forward to a seamless transition over the coming weeks.

A bit about Nancy Klein: Originally from North Carolina, Nancy graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1996 with a degree in psychology. She spent five years serving at Fort Bragg, where she met her husband Marty. During that time, Nancy earned a master’s degree in health services administration. Nancy spent the majority of her Army life in the northern Virginia area, focusing on raising three children. Her true passion is volunteering. Nancy’s favorite volunteer activity is raising potential guide dogs for Guiding Eyes for the Blind.

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Charles Silver displayed an impressive brochure sent by AARP to 500 residents in Northern Virginia describing five OLLI classes to be available free of charge this summer. Two of the classes will be available nationwide. Participants will be required to register for each class. Included prior to each class will be a slide with information about OLLI including how to become a member. Executive Director Jennifer Disano hopes this collaboration with AARP will attract new members.

Mason has given specifics about certain repairs at Tallwood which will begin April 1. The drop box on the office door has been sealed, and mail is now being forwarded to a post office box. Members are asked not to visit the Tallwood site while renovations are in progress.

• Reports from the OLLI president and executive director;
• Brief speeches by the candidates for election to the Board and opportunity to ask questions of the candidates, moderated by the Nominating Committee chair;
• Opportunity for general questions and answers.

To attend the meeting, click the following link: Zoom webinar. The webinar ID is 856 9666 5494; the passcode is 010 263. You may dial in instead at 301-715-8592.

The vote for Board of Directors will take place from noon, Friday, May 7, through noon on Friday, May 21.

Election Procedure - How to Vote for BOD Candidates
There are eight candidates for five vacant positions on the Board of Directors. For access to their bios on the candidate page of the OLLI website, click here.

Recognizing the accuracy, convenience, and efficiency of electronic balloting, the bylaws allow for electronic transmission. Because of the current pandemic, members must use this method of voting. You will receive a link by email on May 7, 2021 by noon to cast your ballot. The subject line will read: 2021 OLLI Ballot for Board of Directors. The link will remain active until you cast your ballot or until noon on Friday, May 21. If you do not receive this email on May 7 contact the OLLI office, olli@gmu.edu.

If you have questions about the election process, contact Nominating Committee Chair Rita Way at ritaway27@gmail.com.

Heather intends to give future presentations on other forgotten founders. All OLLI members and their guests are welcome to attend History Club meetings. You won’t want to miss this one.

Computer Club Accepts Donation from PATACS

OLLI's Computer Club—the OLLI PC User Group or OPCUG—has been holding joint meetings with the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS) since January 2009, with the third-Saturday sessions drawing 500 to 600 attendees annually. On March 20, Roger Fujii, PATACS' treasurer, presented a check for $500 to Angie Talaber, chair of OLLI's Development Committee. PATACS contributions to OLLI since 2010 total $3,250. Three flat-panel monitors for use at the joint meetings and PC clinic sessions were also donated to OPCUG. Ms. Talaber remarked, “OLLI is indeed fortunate to have a group of dedicated and skilled friends such as yourselves.”

On behalf of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, I would like to thank PATACS for its generosity in being an OLLI benefactor for another year. We appreciate the ongoing support during this period of uncertainty and technological challenges.

This donation will be instrumental in helping OLLI adapt to the “new normal” where hybrid classes and distance learning have already replaced the traditional teaching environment.

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By John Olsen and Edward Marion, Photography Club Coordinators

Frank Van Riper will be the guest speaker at the meeting of the Photography Club on Friday April 9 at 9:30. He will discuss his latest book Recovered Memory: New York & Paris 1960-1980, about his experiences doing street photography in both places. The book has had rave reviews in both the New York Times and the Washington Post; its list cost is $45 plus shipping and handling, but it may be obtained at a discount price (e.g., check here). You can email Frank for signed and inscribed copies: GVR@GVRphoto.com). More information about the book is available at this link.

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Meetings & Clubs

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

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

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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, Leslie Vandivere,
Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Roz Stark
Marian Drohan, Jane Hassell
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:ollidev2.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.

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March 19, 2021

• Alerts & Notices
• Fun Facts for OLLI’s 30-Year Anniversary
• Course Proposals for Fall Term 2021
• Science, Technology, and Health Program Planning Group
• Reston Book Club Meeting
• Basketball Fan? Or Looking for a Happy Hour Chat? OLLI’s Chat Line Will Provide!!!
• Inside OLLI Mason
• New Reston Program Planning Coordinators
• Photo of the Month
• Poet's Corner
• Upcoming Mason Music and Friends of Music at Mason Events
• Arts & Music at George Mason
• Meetings & Clubs
• About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

• Reminder: The OLLI Personal Computer User Group (OPCUG) meets Saturday, March 20 (tomorrow), at 1:00; click here to join the webinar and use passcode 728227.
• OLLI Virtual Kick-Off Coffee will be Thursday, March 25, 10:00-11:00; all members welcome. Register for Event 1101.
• Spring-term classes begin March 29. You should have received your class assignments on March 10. Spring-term registration continues on a space-available basis (click here).
• A few spring-term courses have been added, changed, or canceled since catalog production; click here for a full list.
• The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, April 2; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, March 30, at 6:00.

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In 2021, OLLI celebrates its 30th year of classes for seniors. This feature provides fun facts and interesting milestones about our institute each week that E-News is published throughout the year.

March 19
In 1992, LRI was listed in the Elderhostel directory of learning in retirement institutes throughout the country. In early 1993, George Mason University’s new telephone book recognized LRI for the first time.

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By Alice Slayton Clark, Communications and Program Associate

Calling all longstanding and new OLLI instructors! Please be aware that the deadline for course proposals for fall term 2021 is April 12, 2021. Fall term 2021 runs from September 20-November 12. If you haven’t submitted your proposal yet, please do so soon to ensure we will have space for your offering. Your description does not need to be catalog-ready for you to submit, but your submission allows us to save you a spot on the calendar. The earlier you submit, the more likely we can fit your offering into the term and provide you with your preferred dates for the class. Spaces fill up quickly, so act soon!

If you need more time, the deadline for course proposals for winter term 2022 is July 26, 2021. Winter term 2022 runs from January 24-February 18. We encourage all to send in offerings!

You can find the course proposal form at this link. Please fill it out in its entirety, click “submit,” and the OLLI program planners will be in touch with you soon thereafter about your offering. Thanks for your support for OLLI programming!

By Mary Kornreich, Science, Technology, and Health Program Planning Group Co-chair

OLLI’s Science, Technology, and Health Program Planning Group strives to present stimulating courses in the biological and physical sciences and to presemt informational and instructive lessons about technology.

If you have an interest in science or technology which you would like to share with OLLI members, we would love to hear about it! Or perhaps you know someone who would be a good teacher in one of these areas—we'd be happy to contact them.

Specifically, in the biological sciences we are looking for courses in genetics and epigenetics. For example, during a recent class on evolution, some class members asked whether epigenetic changes that happen in our lifetimes can be passed on to future generations. The discussion showed that class members were eager to learn more about epigenetics.

We could use an update on genetics, and we are also looking for courses on the human microbiome, because our microbiomes apparently can have a great impact on our health.

In technology, we are looking for courses in artificial intelligence. There is also a great deal of interest in the use of, and future developments in, nuclear power.

Please send your ideas for courses, suggestions for instructors, or offers to teach to one of our three co-chairs:

Mark Dodge               medodge@comcast.net

Michele Romano         tufax2@gmail.com

Mary Kornreich          mkornreich2@gmail.com

The Reston Book Club will meet on Thursday, April 1, at 4:00, via Zoom. The selection will be: Redhead by the Side of the Road by Anne Tyler, which was long listed for the 2020 Booker Prize. It concerns second chances, misperception, and the sometimes-elusive power of human connection. One day a man’s mundane and routine life is thrown off kilter and changes him forever.

By Doris Bloch, Program Committee Co-chair

On top of our classes, OLLI gives its members increased social engagement! We are reinstating the 24/7, on-all-the-time Chat Line, which is an unmoderated Zoom meeting. This means that you can chat with other OLLI members any time.

News: We also are instituting a few hours dedicated to specific topics. For example, last Thursday on March 18 from 2–3 pm was dedicated to college basketball. For those who are following the NCAA Big Dance, the basketball tournament of 64 teams now in full swing, the chat was all about the teams, brackets, games, predictions for the Final Four, and the final champion, or the whole 2020-1 season and how it compares to past seasons. Not exclusive to the men’s teams, the women’s tournament also was “fair game” for discussion. We hope to continue that chat each week if members are participating.

On Tuesday, March 23 at 3–4 pm, we will sponsor a time slot to talk about movies that you have seen, want to see, or a movie review that you want to share. Also of value might be sharing any film resources that you have discovered during our time at home.

When our spring term begins, we want to initiate an OLLI Happy Hour Chat, once or twice a week, so members can socialize at a relaxed pace and talk about classes that they are taking or plan to take. They can also share beverage tips.

Links to any and all Chat Line events will be included in the Daily Schedule.

We have lots of ideas for other topics to address in the future, but additional suggestions for topics are always welcome (send to dbloch50@hotmail.com.) This is a pilot, so let’s see if it becomes a fixture, depending on your level of interest and support!

Photo of the Month

The March 2021 Photo of the Month theme was Life during COVID. We selected John Nash's photo "Mask It  . . .  Quick.," 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 Coordinators

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Happy Musical March, OLLI friends!

I am excited to tell you about some wonderful free concerts and programs from the Reva and Sid Dewberry family School of Music at Mason. If you are already a Friend of Music at Mason (FOMM), thank you for your support. You will be receiving your email invitations to these events. And if you aren’t on our mailing list yet, please email me at lharber@gmu.edu and I will ensure you get on the list.

What will you receive?

• Our monthly virtual newsletter with lots of musical happenings and stories–many written by your fellow OLLI friends.
• Our Friday Musical Moments–which bring music to your email every Friday–from the talented students, faculty, and alumni of Mason Music!
• A regular calendar with information about the amazing student recitals, all virtual. Our students really appreciate you “sitting” in their virtual audience these days.
• Invitations to these and other upcoming special musical events:

These are just three of the wonderful free (did I say free?) programs brought right to you virtually by the talented Mason Music students. There are no traffic or parking issues this spring, just relaxing and enjoying beautiful music.

Please join the group and enjoy the music. Email me to be included in our mailing list. Remember, life without music would B flat.

Meetings & Clubs

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

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

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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, Leslie Vandivere,
Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Roz Stark
Marian Drohan, Jane Hassell
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:ollidev2.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.

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March 5, 2021

• Alerts & Notices
• Fun Facts for OLLI’s 30-Year Anniversary
• February 19 Board Meeting Highlights
• Reston Program Planning Meeting
• Thanks for Zooming with OLLI Players
• You’re Invited: Literature, Theater, and Writing/
  Languages Program Planning Group to Meet
• Awaken a Genius
• Last Call for OLLI Ink!
• Computer Club
• Photography Club: Lori Saunders to Speak
• Tallwood Book Club
• OLLI from Afar
• Poet's Corner
• Arts & Music at George Mason
• Meetings & Clubs
• About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

• Priority registration for spring term ended March 3 at noon. Registration continues on a space-available basis.
• A few spring-term courses have been added, changed, or canceled since catalog production; click here for a full list.
• The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, March 19; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, March 16, at 6:00.

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In preparation for returning to in‑person classes, Rita Way has been appointed to lead an ad hoc committee to research and advise on issues such as reconciliation of Mason strictures with the requirements of OLLI memberships.

Two resolutions were unanimously approved by the Board. Resolution 190221-01: The Board approves the conversion of all OLLI financial statements to an accrual basis of accounting. This includes financial statements prepared for the audit, tax return, and monthly expenditure reports. This change provides clarity to OLLI’s accounting processes. Also, using an accrual basis of accounting allows OLLI to apply for a variety of grants and to be included in the Combined Federal Campaign, potentially aiding in lowering our deficit. Resolution 190221-02: The Board approves giving a one‑year membership to Leigh Knox as a retirement gift in appreciation of her employment at OLLI. As announced in January, Leigh Knox will be retiring during the spring term after six years as Loudon Site Assistant and Catalog Associate.

Total OLLI membership is 1,037 members—984 full members, 42 annual-promotion members, and 11 introductory members.

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On February 5 we completed our show Stranded. We are now in practice for three shows—two murder mysteries and a springtime Tiptoe through the Tulips on May 28. Our murder mysteries will be shown during the fundraising period for OLLI's 30th anniversary; dates and times to be determined. Thank you again for your support, and see you all soon on Zoom.

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Many OLLI members have joined the ranks of our volunteer instructors. Perhaps you are a former teacher who misses the classroom experience or has a passion—no need for formal expertise—you would like to share. You may also know individuals in your community who would be good OLLI instructors. Or, if you have a topic you would like to have taught, share it with us and we can search for an instructor.

While we may be offering courses exclusively online through our fall 2021 term, once back in person we will be looking for instructors and courses that could be available on our Reston and Loudoun campuses. There are all kinds of opportunities to help us.

On March 19, we will be reviewing our upcoming summer 2021 courses and planning our fall 2021 and winter 2022 terms. Do join us, or if you cannot, feel free to email your ideas or thoughts to any of the planning group members listed below.

“See” you on March 19 at 10:00.

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How to submit: Please email your entry—either as a Word file attachment or in the body of the email—to Caroline McNeil at caromcneil@gmail.com.

Questions or concerns? Use the same email address for a quick response.

Guidelines:

• Poems—limit number of lines to 30;
• Prose—limit number of words to 2,500.

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Computer Club

The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, March 20, via Zoom. Program activities begin at 1:00.

Dropbox and OneDrive: Using The Cloud For Collaboration And Multiple Devices–Presented by Leti Labell
Cloud storage refers to data stored on servers over the Internet. It can greatly increase the amount of storage for your data and allows access to those data from multiple devices and locations. This lecture focuses on two cloud storage services, Dropbox and Microsoft OneDrive, and how to use them to collaborate with other users. It also covers how cloud storage can enhance the ability to use the stored information.
Leti is an OLLI and PATACS member with a lifelong love of computers, and holds an MS in computer science. She is a certified information systems security professional (CISSP) and a project management professional (PMP).
Learn in 30 - Update: Voice Message Answering for Smart Phones–Presented by John Krout
This is an update of John's Robocall Deterrence presentation last year. This one addresses before-and-after statistics to prove that deterrence techniques actually work. He's found a cost-free way for transferring high quality audio from a computer to Android phones via WiFi, without any cables or mixers, ideal for playing a custom voicemail greeting directly from a computer through the phone. John has released for download a cleaned-up version of the Special Information Tones (SIT) that you can include in a voicemail greeting to deter robocallers.

A frequent meeting presenter, John also is the author of many of the articles on PATACS Zoom reference page, and many PATACS Posts newsletter offerings.
See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 for 2021—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.
Attend via Zoom's cloud meeting service, beginning at 1:00. Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/93730244342 and use Passcode 728227 or enter Meeting ID 937 3024 4342 from 'Join' in the Zoom app: Passcode 728227.

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By John Olsen and Edward Marion, Photography Club Coordinators

Please join the OLLI Photo Club on Friday, March 12, at 9:30, to meet Lori Saunders who will be discussing “Light Painting – Photographic Effects.” Lori is a photographer in the Northern Virginia area. During the past year, she has made presentations about Light Painting with Shutterbug Excursions Meetup and the Vienna Photographic Society (VPS). She has found a special passion for Light Painting—working with empty space and models to capture surreal visions from her imagination.

Lori has exhibited award winning photos through VPS, Nature Visions, Vienna Art Society, ArtSpace Herndon, The Southeast (SE) Center for Photography in Greenville, South Carolina, and Joe Miller Abstract Exhibits. She also has explored abstracts through macro and still-life photography—Discovering Mystery in Everyday Objects (e.g., macro, still life).

See more of Lori’s work on Flickr at @lo8i (here), and her Light Painting album at this link. With your own Instagram account, you may also see her work on Instagram @lo8is (click here).

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Meetings & Clubs

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

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

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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, Leslie Vandivere,
Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Roz Stark
Marian Drohan, Jane Hassell
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:ollidev2.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.

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February 12, 2021

• Alerts & Notices
• Fun Facts for OLLI’s 30-Year Anniversary
• Computer Club
• Wanted: Teachers and Speakers for OLLI Classes (Update)
• Poet's Corner
• Arts & Music at George Mason
• Meetings & Clubs
• About OLLI E-News

Alerts & Notices

• Correction: To RSVP for Mason Cabaret Sing Happy! this Sunday, February 14, at 4:00, email amagelss@gmu.edu or phone 703-993-1593. Everyone is invited to attend this free Zoom musical event, but you must register ASAP. (Note: The previously published email address was incorrect.)
• Priority registration for spring term begins Wednesday, February 24 and ends Wednesday, March 3. The spring-term catalog should have arrived in your mail this week; it is available online at this link.
• OLLI Mason will be open Monday, February 15 (Presidents Day). Staff will be working remotely.
• The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, February 19. Submissions are due by 6:00 Tuesday, February 16.

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By Ray Beery, OLLI Member and Former President

In 2021, OLLI celebrates its 30th year of classes for seniors. This feature provides fun facts and interesting milestones about our institute each week that E-News is published throughout the year. 

February 12
George Mason University offered space in three rooms in the Tallwood Building at 4210 Roberts Road on October 29, 1993 with a five-year lease. At the February 24, 1994 Board meeting, it was reported that the contract with Mason had been signed for the use of Tallwood. By the March 17, 1994 Board meeting, LRI (Learning in Retirement Institute, OLLI's predecessor) had moved to Tallwood and obtained permission to use the Fairfax swimming pool parking lot next door to Tallwood.

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Computer Club

The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, February 20, via Zoom. The program begins at 1:00.

Recap of Virtual CES 2021 – Presented by Gary Arlen
The 2021 CES (formerly the Consumer Electronics Show), the electronics extravaganza usually held in Las Vegas in early January, is presented as a reality TV show—a four-day video production of virtual booth visits and conference sessions.

Gary Arlen, president of Arlen Communications LLC, a Bethesda consulting and analysis firm, will summarize this year's highlights. Gary's presentation will look at the array of technologies that have become CES mainstays (e.g., artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, resilience, and digital health). He will also evaluate how global vendors at CES show their technological wares within the constraints of streaming media. Gary's report will assess performance of the live and on-demand production built on Microsoft platforms.

Gary, who has attended the show for more than 35 years, brings an insider's viewpoint, providing insights about the technology as well as marketing and public-policy aspects. He has written and published a newsletter and industry reports about new media and telecom technology.

Learn in 30:  Computer and Electronics Recycling – Jim McGovern
Jim's presentation will discuss electronic and computer recycling from an insider's perspective. He is the president and founder of eAsset Solutions, located in Vienna, Va.

See full details on this meeting by clicking here. For information on the Computer Club, see the OPCUG Website. OPCUG dues are $5 for 2021—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment.

Attend via Zoom's cloud meeting service. Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/93730244342 and use Passcode 728227 or enter Meeting ID 937 3024 4342 from 'Join' in the Zoom app: Passcode 728227.

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(Editor’s Note: This article is based in part on an item previously published in the OLLI E‑News; this update specifically lists additional potential class topics identified by the Humanities and Social Sciences Planning Group.)Memo to OLLI Members: Recall that OLLI is a volunteer organization. That includes our teachers and speakers, all of whom are unpaid.As a member, you have enjoyed the interesting classes that OLLI has offered on many subjects. Every OLLI class needs a teacher or speaker. Recruiting knowledgeable teachers and speakers for OLLI classes is a major challenge for us all.Here are a few additional topics proposed by the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) Program Planning Group for which we need speakers for the coming summer and fall terms:

If you would like to speak on any of these or another topic of interest to you, or if you know someone who is knowledgeable about a topic that you think would interest OLLI members, please send the name and contact information for that person, along with the topic and your name to the following OLLI staff and program planning group members:

• Shannon Kim Morrow (smorrow4@gmu.edu) (for all topics);
• Alice Slayton Clark (aclark24@gmu.edu) (for all topics);
• Camille Hodges (mimihodges4@gmail.com) and Peg O'Brien (mazob@live.com) (for Humanities, Social Sciences, and Current Events topics).

A more extensive list of possible future topics under consideration by the HSS Program Planning Group is available at this link. The group members are working to find speakers for topics on the list. You are encouraged to propose other topics, too.

Also, please go to the following link for further instructions for teachers and speakers:
Suggest a Course (augusoft.net)

We are currently accepting proposals for fall 2021 and winter 2022 terms. Share your expertise—teach for OLLI! To teach a course for OLLI, please complete the online course proposal form at this link.

Please note that OLLI classes are planned six months in advance. Thus, the deadline for a teacher proposing a class for fall term 2021 is April 12.

Remember, we are all in this volunteer organization of OLLI together! Thank you very much for your contribution.

Meetings & Clubs

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

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

Back to Top of Page

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, Leslie Vandivere,
Paul Van Hemel 
Proofreaders: Rebecca Jann, Susan Van Hemel, Linda Randall, Tom Appich, Roz Stark
Marian Drohan, Jane Hassell
Backup Chief Editor: Alice Slayton Clark

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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.
Search E-News: You can view past issues of OLLI E-News at ENews Archives. To search the content within issues, use Search or enter your search term(s) in Google followed by “site:ollidev2.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.

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