Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

OLLI E-News (Weekly Newsletter)

ENews-January-7-2022

by

OLLI E-News January 7, 2022
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Dr. Yerin Choi, Mason doctoral graduate in piano performance, discussed her dissertation on the solo piano pieces of Jiesun Lim in September 21 recital during OLLI’s 2021 fall-term
Music Sampler series.

January 7, 2022


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • You may still register for 2022 winter-term classes on a space-available basis.
  • Periodically check this link to stay up-to-date on winter term changes.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, January 21; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, January 18, at 6:00.
From the Desk of the Executive Director

Scam Alert!

 

By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director



One of our members received an email purportedly from an OLLI instructor, although the email address from which the email was apparently sent is not the instructor’s actual email address. The email stated that the sender (instructor) had tried unsuccessfully to order a birthday gift card online for the sender’s niece and requested the member to purchase the gift card, and then notify the sender (at the phony email address). 

Although on its face the request might seem to be a transparent fraud, it builds on a plausible relationship that the OLLI member might have with an OLLI instructor, in hopes that the possible relationship might make the request plausible also. We are unsure of the origins of this particular scam; however, it is likely that the action of clicking on the scam link or replying to the scam resulted in an email exposure.

To protect yourself, please be cautious and skeptical. No OLLI instructor or staff member will ever request that you purchase something from a third party on their behalf.

To learn more about the latest phishing scams associated with Mason go to this link. To protect yourself from scams, please review Fairfax County advice; click here.

Computer Club: Science—Opinion, Fiction, or Reality?

3rd Saturday, January 15 via Zoom
Science—Opinion, Fiction, or Reality?
Learn in 30: Tiles and Airtags for Tracking 
 
 By Paul Howard, OPCUG Program Chair
 

The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, January 15, via Zoom. Program activities begin at 1:00; the Zoom session usually begins at 12:45.
 
Science—Opinion, Fiction, or Reality? – Presented by Lorrin Garson – There are many in our culture, and worldwide, who believe science is just another opinion among many. Not so. Using chemistry as an exemplar, the following will be discussed: (a) sources of science information, (b) publishers of science, (c) where research is done and who does it, (d) how science information is vetted, (e) errors and fraud in science, and (f) (briefly) science education.
 
Lorrin Garson had a long career in technical publishing of chemical information. His presentations to our computer groups are famous for their thorough research and clarity in explaining topics such as cryptography, encryption of personal data, cloud storage, and the origins of personal computers.
 
Learn in 30: Tiles and Airtags for Tracking – Presented by John Krout. This presentation will introduce you to tiles and airtags, small battery-powered devices that can be attached to your property. These are designed to help you find misplaced or stolen property by using an app on your smart phone or tablet.
 
By far the most widely publicized use of tiles and airtags is to find checked luggage lost by an airline. Tiles and airtags can also help you find your car in a large parking lot, as well as find your purse, key ring, wallet, bicycle, stroller, and even pets and small children.
 
A frequent meeting presenter, John was 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 2022—see http://olligmu.org/opcug/comm.html for details on making payment. Attend via Zoom’s cloud meeting service, beginning at 1:00. Please click this link to join the meeting and use passcode 757899 or enter meeting ID 883 4829 4760 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode.

Tallwood Book Club



 By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator


The Tallwood Book Club will continue to meet via Zoom on the second Friday of each month at 2:30. Refer to the OLLI daily schedule email for Zoom link and other information.
 
The selection for the January 14 meeting is Tightrope by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl Wudunn. The selection for the February 11 meeting is The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett.

Happy New Year!...and Why?

 

By John Nash, E-News editor


Happy New Year to everyone! I’m sure you often have wondered why the new year occurs when it does. Why isn’t it in April when the flowers are blooming, or when the federal budget begins (if it does), or even rotating among the months so none will feel left out?

In the old days – around 150 BC and before - everyone used an ugly, old lunar-based calendar which had become very inaccurate over the years. The first of the year seemed to bounce around, depending on who was in power.

The first time the new year was celebrated on January 1st was in Rome in 153 B.C. The new year was moved from March to January because that was the beginning of the civil year, the month that the two newly elected Roman consuls began their one-year tenure. But this new year date was not always strictly or widely observed, and many people still celebrated on March 1 or whenever.

Finally, Julius Caesar, as dictator and “sole decider,” missing a few of his wife's birthdays, created a new solar-based calendar which he named after himself and declared January 1 definitely was the official new year! So there! Sadly, the Julian calendar also had a few flaws and it was finally replaced in the 16th century by the Gregorian calendar.

Interestingly, there are many other calendars: Jewish, Chinese, Muslim, Hindu, and others based on such things as religious events, astrological occurrences, growing seasons, or whatever else that might seem reasonable at the time. We even have an OLLI calendar, but we stuck with the traditional beginning on January 1. Caesar is happy!
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop

Three Kings Day on 37th St.
 
I recall one January day when
winter sunshine fell about New York.
It was mild on the cross street
where we lived, brighter at 37th at
the park, to which I took the kids.
 
Dozens of Christmas trees lay on
the curbs along our familiar route.
Traffic was light. The city, sad,
disconsolate, took comfort,
looking up in some surprise at the
unexpected sun.
 
At the park wrought iron railings took us
in and with the leafless branches made
striped light. We were the only three that
afternoon to see the winter sunlight falling
on the abiding benches and the swings.
 
                              Caroline McNeil
Obituary: Pamela Hughes Cooper-Smuzynski

Pamela Cooper-Smuzynski, OLLI member since 2007, lost a battle to cancer on December 26, 2021. As an enthusiastic OLLI member, Pam particularly liked courses in the 400 series—literature, theater, and writing. She also enjoyed “Trip Tales.”

Pam taught elementary school in Georgia and South Carolina, and in this area, she was the founding librarian at Sangster Elementary School in Springfield, Virginia. As an elementary school librarian, she loved books, literature, and reading, especially to and with children. She will be missed by her friends at OLLI. 

Arrangements for a private celebration of her life are being planned. Further information is available at this link.
Arts & Music at George Mason
No Performances until September


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


 
As Mason’s campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at bschoen@gmu.edu. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances. Information also can be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.
 
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Camille A. Brown & Dancers
Sat, Jan 22, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $46, $39, $28
 
Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: Fantastic Fantasies
Sun, Jan 23, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

No events scheduled
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Zia Palmer - Women of the Same Blood
Ongoing through Sun, Jan 9
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free


Gallery Exhibit: 10th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Student Exhibition
Tue, Jan 11 – Sun, Feb 20
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free
 
Dance, Etc. School of the Arts: 40th Winter Concert
Sat, Jan 15, 7:00
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $20
 
ARTfactory Pied Piper Theatre: Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella
Sat, Jan 22, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Jan 23, 3:00
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 adult; $16 youth (ages 12 and under); Early Bird Special (through 1/16/22): $16 adult; $14 youth
 
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
 
Meetings & Clubs

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

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Jan 8 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Jan 10  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Jan 11
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Jan 12
 		 10:30 am
 2:00 pm		 Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Jan 13
 
 
 		 10:00 am
11:50 am
12:15 pm
 4:30 pm		 Program Planning Committee
All the News, Continued
Special Events Program Planning Group
Tai Chi Club
Fri Jan 14
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Jan 15
 		 10:30 pm
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Jan 17
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Club
Tue Jan 18
 		  9:30 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Jan 19
 
 		 10:00 am
10:30 am
 2:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Jan 20
 		 11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 All the News, Continued
Tai Chi Club
Fri Jan 21
 
 		  9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Homer, etc.
Sat Jan 22 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 
About OLLI E-News

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

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

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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:ollidev.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.

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ENews-December-24-2021

by

OLLI E-News December 24, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Some Photos from Photography Club Field Trip to National Building Museum, November 19.
Photos by George Bradshaw (GB), John Olsen (JO), Lynn Cline (LC), and George Addison (GA)

December 24, 2021


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • You may still register for 2022 winter-term classes on a space-available basis.
  • Periodically check this link to stay up-to-date on winter term changes.
  • OLLI Mason will be closed on holiday break through January 2.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, January 7; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, January 4, at 6:00.

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Share Your Expertise as an OLLI Instructor in 2022!


By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning
Group Co-chair

OLLI is looking for instructors willing to teach a few classes:
  • Examining the Biden Administration’s Domestic and Foreign Policy Agenda/2021-2024
  • Democracy vs. Authoritarianism in the USA and Abroad
  • Is America in Decline? Empirical Indicators and Implications for Present and Future Generations.
 This could be you! Please contact one of the following OLLI program coordinators if you are interested:
Shannon Kim Morrow, Program Associate—smorrow4@gmu.edu
Nancy Klein, Communications and Program Associate— nklein4@gmu.edu.
 
OR complete the course proposal form available at this link.
 
We encourage multiple sessions, if possible. Thank you!
 
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in recent issues; the Program Planning Group requested the repeat for emphasis and to encourage your participation in sharing the benefits of OLLI.
Want to Know How Algorithms Rule the World?


By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning
Group Co-chair

Sign up for OLLI Course #977 in the winter 2022 course catalog and get the answer to this question and more. You will find this class listed in the “Special Events” section (page 23). Three distinguished Mason professors discuss their research on this topic on Friday, February 18 from 2:00-3:30 and show how ethical behavior is essential when using technology. Share this critical information with your friends, associates, and young people in your social circle.
 
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in recent issues; the Program Planning Group requested the repeat for emphasis and to encourage your participation in sharing the benefits of OLLI.
Photo of the Month



The December 2021 Photo of the Month theme was Look Up/Look Down. We selected John Olsen's photo "Harper’s Ferry," which may also be viewed at this page. To view other photos by members of the Photography Club, visit the club's photo website.
                                      -- By John Olsen and Ed Marion, Photography Club Coordinators
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Mid-century Trees
 
It was often like a Frost poem,
although I couldn’t have
told you that back then.
 
We got in the car, my mother
and I, and my father drove
down Route 58 toward Cape Cod
for about an hour to Carver, just
after the two-lane road enchantingly
split into two sides lined by
evergreens, right, left, and center.
 
If we were lucky, it snowed as we
roamed through the woods
owned by a man my father knew,
looking for the perfect tree,
the soft crunch of pristine snow
under our feet and the blacks
and dark greens of trees against
the white all around us.
 
When we found our tree—
quickly when it was very cold,
more slowly when it wasn’t—
always huge and beautiful,
my father cut it down with his saw.
Then we carefully pulled it back
to the car, struggled to rope
it safely on the roof.
 
Paid the dollar, sometimes a dollar
and a quarter, and headed home.
 
This huge beautiful perfect tree,
every year we found one.
 
                                   — Betty Smith
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, December 24 through January 6


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


 
As Mason’s campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at bschoen@gmu.edu. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
 
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

No events scheduled
Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

No events scheduled
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Zia Palmer - Women of the Same Blood
Ongoing through Sun, Jan 9
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
Meetings & Clubs

Please note: Physical meetings for clubs and activities are canceled until further notice in accordance with Mason’s guidelines. OLLI is conducting its classes and activities online, with the exception of a few activities testing a hybrid of in-person and online events. 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. 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.

 
Dec 25 – Jan 2 Winter Break ❄️❄️❄️
Tue Dec 28  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Thu Dec 30  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Mon Jan 3
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Club
Tue Jan 4
 		  9:30 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Jan 5
 
 		 10:00 am
11:50 am
 2:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Jan 6  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Jan 7
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Sat Jan 8 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 













 
Best Wishes for the Holiday Season and the New Year from the E-News Team!
About OLLI E-News

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

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

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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:ollidev.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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ENews-December-10-2021

by

OLLI E-News December 10, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Tallwood ramp built by Mason Facilities Management for Americans with Disabilities Act compliance is nearing completion as shown in panoramic view

December 10, 2021


Editor of the Week: Sheri Siesseger 
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Winter-term priority registration ended December 7. However, you may still register for winter-term classes on a space-available basis.
  • Reminder: The Investment Forum hosts a special session with Marc Rubenstein, author of the Net Interest newsletter, sharing his thoughts on the banking industry and financial technology, Monday, December 13, at 10:00. See OLLI Daily Schedule email for the link.
  • Note: This month, the OLLI Personal Computer Club (OPCUG) is meeting on the 2nd Saturday, at 1:00, December 11 (tomorrow), instead of the 3rd Saturday; see article below.
  • Periodically check this link to stay up-to-date on winter term changes.
  • OLLI Mason will be closed on holiday break from December 20 through January 2.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, December 24; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, December 21, at 6:00.
Co-chair Needed for the Special Events Program Planning Group


By Rita Way, Special Events Program Planning Group Co-chair


The Special Events Program Planning Group is looking to fill the position of co-chair. If you are interested or would like more information about this volunteer opportunity, please contact Rita Way at email: Ritaway27@gmail.com.

Thank you.
Tallwood Book Club Meets TODAY


By Betty Ellerbee, Tallwood Book Club Coordinator


The Tallwood Book Club will be discussing Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes at our regular Zoom meeting, Friday, December 10 (today), at 2:30. The Zoom link and other information appears in today’s OLLI Daily Schedule email.
 
The January selection is Tightrope by Nicholas Kristof.
WANTED: Poetry and Prose for OLLI Ink 2022!
By Caroline McNeil, OLLI Ink Editor
OLLI writers—beginners or experienced—take note: OLLI Ink is now accepting submissions, including poems, fiction, personal essays, and memoirs, for its 2022 edition.
 
Now moving into its eleventh year, OLLI Ink is a well‑established publication whose contributors come from a wide spectrum of OLLI members, including, but not limited to, those enrolled in writing workshops.
 
How to Submit: Please send your entries and/or any questions to Caroline McNeil at caromcneil@gmail.com.
 
Guidelines:
  • Poems – limit number of lines to 30
  • Prose – limit number of words to 2,500, single-spaced.
 Contributions are welcome starting now through the end of February.  
Share Your Expertise as an OLLI Instructor in 2022!
By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair
 OLLI is looking for instructors willing to teach a few classes:
  • Examining the Biden Administration’s Domestic and Foreign Policy Agenda/2021-2024
  • Democracy vs. Authoritarianism in the USA and Abroad
  • Is America in Decline? Empirical Indicators and Implications for Present and Future Generations.  
This could be you! Please contact one of the following OLLI program coordinators if you are interested:
Shannon Kim Morrow, Program Associate—smorrow4@gmu.edu
Nancy Klein, Communications and Program Associate— nklein4@gmu.edu.
 
OR complete the course proposal form available at this link.
 
We encourage multiple sessions, if possible. Thank you!
 
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in a recent issue; the Program Planning Group requested the repeat for emphasis and to encourage your participation in sharing the benefits of OLLI.
Correction for the Winter 2022 Catalog: R414 Literary Roundtable
By Ben Gold, Literary Roundtable Moderator
Please note the changes to this entry that were made since publication of the catalog:
R414 Literary Roundtable
Wednesdays, 11:50-1:15, Jan 26-Feb 16
Four sessions
Moderator: Ben Gold
Class limit: 30
This continuing short story discussion class will complete The Best American Short Stories 2019, edited by Anthony Doerr & Heidi Pitlor. For those who do not have copies of the book, the four remaining stories from that volume will be provided. Stories for the last two weeks of the term will be distributed.
Ben Gold has a BA in political science from Stanford University and also holds an MS degree in computer science. He will serve as moderator.
Supplement for the Winter 2022 Catalog: Classic Literature Club
By Robert Zener, Classic Literature Club Coordinator
For the winter session, club members have agreed to read and discuss Edith Wharton’s The Age of Innocence. We will also view and discuss the 1993 film based on that book, starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Winona Ryder, and Michelle Pfeiffer. The club meets Fridays, 11:00-12:30, January 28-February 18.
Want to Know How Algorithms Rule the World?
By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair
Sign up for OLLI Course #977 in the winter 2022 course catalog and get the answer to this question and more. You will find this class listed in the “Special Events” section (page 23). Three distinguished Mason professors discuss their research on this topic on Friday, February 18 from 2:00-3:30 and show how ethical behavior is essential when using technology. Share this critical information with your friends, associates, and young people in your social circle.
 
Editor’s Note: This article appeared in a recent issue; the Program Planning Group requested the repeat for emphasis and to encourage your participation in sharing the benefits of OLLI.
A Fascinating Peek Behind the Scenes
By Debby Mossburg, OLLI Board Member
What a treat OLLI members enjoyed on November 15 when Ben Powell, a well-known improvisational violinist, led us on a tour through the history of, and the creative processes behind, movie scores. Born in Britain, Ben currently lives in New Orleans. He has performed with the likes of Paul Simon, Celine Dion, Andrea Bocelli, Neil Young, Barbra Streisand, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder, and has been featured on over 200 movie soundtracks including The Lion King and E.T. Most recently he contributed significantly to the score of Hillbilly Elegy.

An incredibly talented musician, Mr. Powell turned out to be a gifted presenter as well. Sharing many of his own personal stories, as well as informative and entertaining video clips, he opened attendees’ eyes to the previously unknown world of movie scoring. It was fascinating to see how all the parts come together from the first few bars sparked by the movie in the composer’s imagination through the often-collaborative creative process made tangible through the efforts of varied musicians to match music to motion. One of the clips he shared that spotlights his work, and others on Hillbilly Elegy, can be viewed at this link.

Over 250 people attended the presentation, and it was a great public-relations event as well, featured by AARP as one of the classes offered through their Virtual Community Center. Member Stephanie Trachtenberg was responsible for bringing this very special event to OLLI.

Sorry you missed it? Not to worry. You can find it on the OLLI class video recordings page featured each day in the Daily Schedule email under Special Events: 972 Motion Picture Scores. Enjoy!
Computer Club
2nd Saturday, December 11, in-person and via Zoom
The Adventure Continues: Apple Watch, HomePods,  
Home App, and Apple Card Join iPad/iPhone
Learn in 30: The Time Lords of Fort Collins, Colorado
PC Clinic in the Annex – Click here for clinic rules 


By Paul Howard, OPCUG Program Chair


The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, December 11, both in-person and via Zoom. Program activities begin at 1:00. Details regarding in-person attendance, limited to 75 people, are located here:
https://www.patacs.org/fairfaxattreqmts.html. Those wishing to attend in person who are not members of OPCUG or PATACS (not receiving email from the groups) should send an expression of interest to: ffxmtg@patacs.org.
 
The Adventure Continues: Apple Watch, HomePods, Home App, and Apple Card Join iPad/iPhone – Presented by Gabe Goldberg. Gabe has previously spoken about early and ongoing iPad experiences and the later addition of iPhone to the mix. He will briefly recap and comment on the update of his Apple ecosystem devices, software, and experiences. Over the last eight months, he added an Apple Watch (courtesy of Heartline cardio study), three HomePod Minis, the Home App, and multiple Siri-controlled outlets. He also switched credit card usage to Apple card. He will discuss how he set up and uses these things. While the presentation is Apple-specific, more-or-less equivalent facilities are available with non-Apple devices and software.
 
Gabe has spent a professional career in computers and technology, including writing about such topics for the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), and making presentations in a multi-state territory for the Association of Personal Computer User Groups.
 
Learn in 30: The Time Lords of Fort Collins, Colorado – Presented by Bill Walsh.
Colorado is home to many scientific disciplines researched and maintained by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). As the home of America's time standard instrument, the NIST-F2 cesium fountain atomic clock, the institute maintains a radio station in Fort Collins that disseminates timekeeping information that is critical for government, industry, and daily life. An overview of this station, which includes transmitters assigned call letters WWV and WWVB, will be presented at the meeting.
 
Bill Walsh is an enthusiast of radio-controlled clocks, and of perusing the web for parts and fixes for a variety of Heathkit atomic clocks and other such technology. Bill was OLLI's Tallwood Site Assistant for 11 years and helps instructors with Zoom sessions on an as-needed basis.
 
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 this link to join the meeting and use passcode 458615 or enter meeting ID 846 0789 9770 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode.
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Triage
 
The move looms
 
Reluctantly
We are emptying the house
Room by room
Treasures collected
Necessities readied
Boxed and stored
 
Leaving us with the undecided
Lurking in the rooms
Corners of maybes
Filled with uncertainty
The question marks
Of indefinite states
 
Like ourselves balanced
On the cusp of going and staying
 
                           Betty Webb
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, December 10 through December 23 


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


As Mason’s campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at bschoen@gmu.edu. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
 
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

American Festival Pops Orchestra: Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season
Sat, Dec 11, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
 
Fairfax Symphony Orchestra and Ballet Company: Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker
Sat and Sun, Dec 18-19, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $89, $69, $49.
Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

No Performances
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Zia Palmer - Women of the Same Blood
Continues through Sun, Jan 9
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 
Prince William Little Theatre: A Christmas Carol (Touring Version)
Fri, Dec 17, 8:00
Sat, Dec 18, 2:00 and 7:00
Sun, Dec 19, 2:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $24 adults; $21 seniors.
 
Manassas Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker
Fri, Dec 17, 7:30
Sat, Dec 18, 3:00 and 7:30
Sun, Dec 19, Tue, Dec 21, Wed, Dec 22, Thu, Dec 23, 3:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $75, $65, $45, $35.
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
Meetings & Clubs

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

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Dec 11
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Mon Dec 13
 
 		  9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Tom Crooker Investment Forum: Special Event
Poetry Club
Tue Dec 14
 
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Spanish Club
Tai Chi Club
Wed Dec 15
 
 		 10:00 am
10:30 am
 6:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Dec 16
 
 		 11:50 am
 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Dec 17
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Sat Dec 18 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Dec 20-25 Winter Break ❄️❄️❄️


 
About OLLI E-News

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

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

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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:ollidev.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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ENews-November-26-2021

by

OLLI E-News November 26, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
John Nash hosts Veterans Day fest, November 12, with guest speaker Phyllis Wilson, CW5 USA (Retired), Military Women’s Memorial President

November 26, 2021


Editor of the Week: Paul Van Hemel
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Registration begins November 29 for winter term.
  • Remember, when you register for 2022 winter term, you must register for clubs. This allows OLLI to maintain current club rosters and ensures that you receive emails about your club's activities and events.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, December 10; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, December 7, at 6:00.

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Summary of Board of Directors Meeting


By Rita Way, Secretary


The regular meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually November 19, 2021.
 
OLLI President Paul Howard reported the ramp construction is a little behind schedule, but it will be completed by the time spring term starts and members return to Tallwood campus. He also noted that the OLLI Zoom Help subcommittee would welcome additional volunteers, particularly those with Apple computer/device expertise.
 
Executive Director Jennifer Disano reported that finances are in good shape, but it is still important to reach out to recruit new members. She reported that currently the total membership is 1026 (1003 annual, 18 introductory and 5 lifetime members).
 
Jennifer also confirmed that all individuals visiting OLLI campuses will be subject to COVID prevention rules. In‑person programs require several health and safety protocols to ensure we are making our best effort to prevent the spread of COVID‑19 and its variants. Health and safety protocols are on the OLLI website. Rules are subject to change and will be updated as needed.
 
Two resolutions were approved by the Board.
 
Resolution 211119-01. Resolved, the OLLI Board of Directors approves the transfer of Friends of OLLI (FOLLI) account contributions and expenditures to the OLLI operating budget. This transfer will be effective with the 2022 OLLI budget. All FOLLI contributions not expended or allocated by the end of 2021 will be transferred to the OLLI reserve account.
 
Resolution 211119-02. Resolved, the OLLI Board of Directors approves the 2020 OLLI audit.

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Inside OLLI Mason
Coordinating Meet the Artists


By Kosmo Tatalias, Meet the Artists Coordinator


I hope you enjoyed the Meet the Artists (MTA) concerts via livestream. Five times as many OLLI members "attended" these concerts virtually than trekked to Reston pre‑COVID. Being at the Reston CenterStage in person is a more satisfying experience than watching livestream, and I hope you will find your way to Reston for the Spring 2022 series.

Have you ever thought you would like to be the producer of concerts, find performers you would like to hear, maybe even introduce them to the audience? Here’s your chance to be a Sol Hurok or a Rudolph Bing! Yes, you too can be in show business! OLLI needs a new coordinator for this marvelous concert series. Alas, I cannot continue in this role because of declining vision and mobility issues.

The duties include sending and responding to emails to schedule performers for the six concerts each fall and spring, coordinating with OLLI and Reston Community Center staffs for catalog entries, and serving as emcee or recruiting someone for that role. (My thanks again to Marianne Metz for serving so smoothly as the emcee. Her experience at the Kennedy Center and with her internet radio program is showing!)
 
The MTA concerts for spring 2022 have been scheduled, and have been submitted to the catalogs for OLLI and for the Reston Community Center. For each of the fall 2022 and spring 2023 concerts, four of the six events are annual "repeats," needing only coordination of the dates. The other two per season will very likely be filled by contacting artists who have performed for MTA before, and I can provide a long list of names and contact information. Also, other artists who perform pro bono concerts can be found by monitoring venues such as the Emerson Avenue Salonlines, Shenandoah Conservatory, and retirement communities such as Greenspring and Ashby Ponds.
 
Please consider serving as the coordinator for this important OLLI class, which Rosemary McDonald originated twelve years ago and which has been presented at the Reston Community Center for the past decade. Reading and composing emails for coordination have become difficult for me because of declining eyesight, but I will be happy to provide many resources and as much assistance as needed to the next coordinator.
 
If you are interested in helping continue this OLLI cultural offering, or if you know someone who might be, please contact me at ktatali2@gmu.edu, or call me at 703-281-6099.
Support the Outreach Committee
Help Us Spread the Word


By Debby Mossburg, Outreach Committee Chair


Looking for a way to use your personal and professional skills to help OLLI? The Outreach Committee needs you! An Outreach Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 2, at 3:00.

We welcome anyone interested in helping us to spread the word about this amazing learning community, but we especially need people with any of the following:
  • Marketing and/or advertising experience
  • Graphic arts and/or video production experience
  • Social media savvy
  • An interest in increasing the diversity of our membership
  • A background in journalism and/or a love of writing
  • An enthusiasm for spreading the word about OLLI.
Many of the benefits we enjoy as OLLI members are only possible with a robust membership, but our membership numbers have been in decline since 2016. Joining our Outreach Committee is one way to help reverse the trend and improve your OLLI. Please contact debby.mossburg@verizon.net if you want to be part of the solution. To join the meeting, click here. The link and other information will also appear in the OLLI daily schedule email. Thanks!
Investment Forum Special Session


By Brenda Bloch-Young, Economics and Finance Program Planning Group Co-chair


We have a unique opportunity with a special speaker for this event. Marc Rubinstein, author of the Net Interest newsletter, and based in London, has agreed to share his thoughts on the banking industry and financial technology (fintech). The event will be on December 13 at 10:00.

Here are some words from Marc about his topic:

"When I launched Net Interest in May 2020, I never really grasped the power of the internet. I had spent over 20 years in public markets, first in equity research and then as a partner of one of Europe’s premier hedge-fund firms, analysing and investing in financial services firms throughout. At peak, my team and I managed $4 billion of assets in the sector, which we deployed, long and short, around the world. Although I’ve given up managing other people’s money, I maintain a keen interest, particularly in fintech, and thought it would be fun to write down what I was thinking about each week. 

Over 60 issues later, we are at more than 23,000 subscribers. Readers include CEOs and CFOs of some of the biggest financial institutions in the world, founders of some of the most exciting startups, and investors at some of the highest performing funds across venture and public markets."

We hope you will join us for this special session on December 13 at 10:00.
Share Your Expertise as an OLLI Instructor in 2022


By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair

OLLI is looking for instructors willing to teach a few classes:
  • Examining the Biden Administration’s Domestic and Foreign Policy Agenda/2021-2024
  • Democracy vs. Authoritarianism in the USA and Abroad
  • Is America in Decline? Empirical Indicators and Implications for Present and Future Generations.
This could be you! Please contact one of the following OLLI program coordinators if you are interested:
Shannon Kim Morrow, Program Associate—smorrow4@gmu.edu
Nancy Klein, Communications and Program Associate— nklein4@gmu.edu.
OR complete the course proposal form available at this link.
We encourage multiple sessions, if possible. Thank you!
Save the Date: Help Plan OLLI Mason Programs, Thursday, December 2, 10:00


By Pat Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group Co-chair


All OLLI Mason members are invited to our all-campus program planning group meeting for literature, language, and theater program planning. Mark your calendars and set aside some time on Thursday, December 2 from 10:00-11:30 via Zoom to share in the planning of these popular topics.

Is there a favorite author or playwright you want to know more about? Want to dabble in new writing workshops or suggest a new language to offer? Know any local teacher resources or—thanks to Zoom—instructors farther afield? Maybe you just want to see how the program-planning process works. Don’t miss this opportunity to offer your thoughts and suggestions as we plan programs for our summer 2022 term and beyond.

Also, learn about the planning for our return to in-person teaching on all campuses in our spring term, with Zoom and hybrid options available to instructors and members. And, of course, if you, or anyone you know, would like to join our committee, here is your opportunity to see the process in action.

See you December 2 at 10:00. Click this Zoom link to join the meeting. The Zoom link and other information will also appear in the OLLI Daily Schedule email for December 2. If you can’t make it and want to share program ideas, feel free to contact me by email at Pbangs68@gmail.com.

Thanks so much for your interest and contributions.
Correction for the Winter 2022 Catalog: F407 Retelling Traditional Tales . . .


By Ellen Moody, Instructor


I changed one of my books and, accordingly, altered the description of the course, F407 Retelling Traditional History & Tales from an Alternative Point of View. The catalog, however, contains the previous book and so is written differently. I also now suggest an outside movie to watch.
 
Wednesdays, 11:50-1:15, Jan. 26-Feb. 16
Four sessions
Instructor: Ellen Moody
Class limit: 45
 
We will read two books which retell stories and history from perhaps unexpected and often unvoiced points of views. In War in Val D'Orcia, An Italian War Diary, 1943-44, Irish Origo (a British-Italian biographer and memoir-writer, and literary Officer of the Order of the British Empire) retells the story of World War Two from the point of view of a woman taking charge of her estates during the war. Then, Cassandra & Four Essays by Christa Wolf (a respected East German author who won numerous German literary-political prizes) tells the story of Troy from Cassandra’s point of view, no longer a nutcase but an insightful prophet. The book was written after the war was over and after a trip the author took to Greece. The immediate context for both is World War Two, but Cassandra also allegorizes the story of the two Germanies after the war and the European campaign for nuclear disarmament.
 
I will be recommending two movies: two episodes from 1979 BBC serial Danger UXB (about landmines); an acclaimed film about the GDR’s Stasi, The Lives of Others (available on Amazon prime)—the heroine’s story is partly based on the life of Christa Wolf.
Want to Know How Algorithms Rule the World?


By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair

Sign up for OLLI Course #977 in the winter 2022 course catalog and get the answer to this question and more. You will find this class listed in the “Special Events” section (page 23). Three distinguished Mason professors discuss their research on this topic on Friday, February 18 from 2:00-3:30 and show how ethical behavior is essential when using technology. Share this critical information with your friends, associates, and young people in your social circle.
Photo of the Month

The November 2021 Photo of the Month theme was Water. The vote for the winning photo was tied between Edward Marion’s photo “Resistance is Futile” shown below, and which may also be viewed at this page,



and Robert Kelberg’s photo “Bandon Beach” shown below, and which may also be viewed at this link.



To view other photos by members of the Photography Club, visit the club's photo website.
                                -- By John Olsen and Ed Marion, Photography Club Coordinators
 
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Music Box Dancer*

When I hear that melody, I know
I will never be free of visions
Of you and me, sitting by the sea
Sweet, dulcet sounds of the piano

We talked till the moon slipped into the sea
Soft sea breezes lulled us into a dream
Time of serene joy, bliss and happiness
But, nothing in this world is enduring 

Even euphoric joy weakens moments later
Merging into one’s usual state of mind
Like ripples in the water made by a pebble
Gradually merge into the smooth, still surface

I dream of the future and reflect on the past

                               - Chitra Mohla

*Music Box Dancer: An instrumental piano piece by Canadian musician Frank Mills. Mills wrote and recorded Music Box Dancer in 1974.
 
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, November 26 through December 6


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer


 
As Mason’s campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at bschoen@gmu.edu. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website, Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances.
 
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Canadian Brass
Sat, Nov 27, 8:00
Center for the Arts
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $35.
 
Lightwire Theater
Sun, Nov 28, 1:00 and 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $15.
 
Dianne Reeves, Holiday Jazz
Sat, Dec 4, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36.
 
Shop the Arts: Cyber Monday LIVE!
Mon, Nov 29, 12:00
Virtual Event at https://www.facebook.com/gmucfa
Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Jazz Workshop Concert
Tue, Nov 30, 8:00,
Concert Hall
Admission: Free, register at https://mpv.tickets.com/?agency=GEORGE_MASON_MPV&orgid=42970&pid=8983550.
 
Steel Pan Ensemble/Braddock Road Brass Band/Latin American Ensemble
Wed, Dec 1, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: Free, register at https://mpv.tickets.com/?agency=GEORGE_MASON_MPV&orgid=42970&pid=8983551.
 
Mason Symphony and Choirs Holiday Concert
Sunday, Dec 5, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $20 adults; $15 seniors.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Zia Palmer - Women of the Same Blood
Tue, Nov 16 through Sun, Jan 9
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 
Virginia National Ballet: The Nutcracker
Fri, Nov 26, 2:00 and 6:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $45.
 
Northern Virginia Ballet & Academy of Russian Ballet: The Nutcracker
Sat, Nov 27, 2:00 and 6:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $40.
 
A Chanticleer Christmas
Sun, Nov 28, 4:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $55, $47, $33.
 
Mason Dance Innovations Concert
Fri, Dec 3, 8:00
Sat, Dec 4, 8:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $15 adults; $10 seniors.
 
Manassas Symphony Orchestra Family Concert: Color and Light
Sat, Dec 4, 3:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 adults; $16 seniors.
 
Jane Lynch’s A Swingin’ Little Christmas
Sun, Dec 5, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $65, $55, $40.
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
Meetings & Clubs

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

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

 
Sat Nov 27 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Nov 29
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 What’s in the Daily News?
Poetry Club
Tue Nov 30
 		  9:30 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Dec 1
 
 
 		 10:00 am
10:00 am
10:30 am
 2:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
History Club
Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Dec 2
 
 
 		 10:00 am
 
11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 Literature, Theater, and Writing/Languages Program Planning Group Meeting
All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Dec 3
 		  9:30 am
11:00 am		 Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Sat Dec 4 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Mon Dec 6  9:30 am What’s in the Daily News?
Tue Dec 7
 		  9:30 am
 4:30 pm		 Annex Art
Tai Chi Club
Wed Dec 8
 		 10:30 am
 2:00 pm		 Tom Crooker Investment Forum
Memoir and More Writing Group
Thu Dec 9
 		 11:50 am
 4:30 pm		 All the News
Tai Chi Club
Fri Dec 10
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Homer, etc.
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Dec 11 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 




























 
About OLLI E-News

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

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

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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:ollidev.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

Back to Top of Page

ENews-November-12-2021

by

OLLI E-News November 12, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
President Paul Howard and Executive Director Jennifer Disano host annual OLLI Town Hall, November 5

November 12, 2021


Editor of the Week: David Gundry
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

 
  • Watch for your winter-term catalog, which should arrive in the mail within the next two weeks. Winter-term registration begins November 29.
  • Remember, when you register for 2022 winter term, you must register for clubs. This allows OLLI to maintain current club rosters and ensures that you receive emails about your club's activities and events.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, November 26; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, November 23, at 6:00.

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Save the Date: Help Plan OLLI Mason Programs, Thursday, December 2, 10:00


By Pat Bangs, Literature, Language, and Theater Program Planning Group Co-chair


All OLLI Mason members are invited to our all-campus program planning group meeting for Literature, Language, and Theater program planning. Mark your calendars and set aside some time on Thursday, December 2 from 10:00-11:30 via Zoom to share in the planning of these popular topics.  

Is there a favorite author or playwright you want to know more about? Want to dabble in new writing workshops or suggest a new language to offer? Know any local teacher resources or—thanks to Zoom—instructors farther afield? Maybe you just want to see how the program-planning process works. Don’t miss this opportunity to offer your thoughts and suggestions as we plan programs for our summer 2022 term and beyond.

Also, learn about the planning for our return to in-person teaching on all campuses in our spring term, with Zoom and hybrid options available to instructors and members as well. And, of course, if you, or anyone you know, would like to join our committee, here is your opportunity to see the process in action.

See you December 2 at 10:00. Click this Zoom link to join the meeting. The Zoom link and other information will also appear in the OLLI Daily Schedule email for December 2.

If you can’t make it and want to share program ideas, feel free to contact me by email at Pbangs68@gmail.com.

Thanks so much for your interest and contributions.
Support the Outreach Committee


By Debby Mossburg, Outreach Committee Chair



Looking for a way to use your personal and professional skills to help OLLI? The Outreach Committee needs you! We welcome anyone interested in helping us to spread the word about this amazing learning community, but we especially need people with any of the following:
  • Marketing and/or advertising experience
  • Graphic arts and/or video production experience
  • Social media savvy
  • An interest in increasing the diversity of our membership
  • A background in journalism and/or a love of writing
  • An enthusiasm for spreading the word about OLLI.
Many of the benefits we enjoy as OLLI members are only possible with a robust membership, but our membership numbers have been in decline since 2016. Joining our Outreach Committee is one way to help reverse the trend and improve your OLLI. Please contact debby.mossburg@verizon.net if you want to be part of the solution. Thanks!
Computer Club
3rd Saturday, November 20, In-Person/Zoom Hybrid
Removing Bloatware from Android Devices
  Overview of Apple Computers for Windows Users

By Paul Howard, OPCUG Program Chair



The Computer Club (OLLI Personal Computer User Group, or OPCUG) will meet with its partner, the Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS), on Saturday, November 20, in an in-person/Zoom hybrid session. Program activities begin at 1:00.

Removing Bloatware from Android Devices – Presented by John Krout. Bloatware is any application on a portable device that was installed before you bought the device and is not used by you. Bloatware takes up storage space on your device and, if started accidentally, can track your phone location and your uses of other applications, so it makes sense to remove bloatware. This presentation will show you three removal methods. Multiple methods are useful because some bloatware is specifically designed to resist the normal method of un-installation. Learn the normal method, application assistance for removing bloatware, and the application-developer method for removing bloatware.

John Krout's articles on a variety of topics appear regularly in the PATACS Posts newsletter. He is a frequent presenter at OPCUG/PATACS joint meetings, and served as an officer of WACUG, a predecessor organization of PATACS.

Learn in 30: Overview of Apple Computers for Windows Users – Presented by Lorrin Garson. This isn't a sales pitch for Apple computers, rather a presentation to acquaint Microsoft Windows users with the user interface and basic functions of Macs. Topics to be covered: (a) the desktop, dock, and menu bar, (b) basic "getting around," (c) system preferences, (d) applications and utilities, (e) the Mac operating system (macOS), (f) the App Store, (g) "Spotlight", (h) backup and recovery.

Lorrin is a regular speaker at OPCUG/PATACS sessions on a wide variety of computer and scientific topics.

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 this link to join the meeting and use passcode 458615 or enter meeting ID 846 0789 9770 in the Zoom app and use the above passcode.
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Us 

Bodies imperceptibly dissolving away
turning into swamp soup
hormone driven desires long
gone.

That is as they say
the “March”
so our minds
at least for now
float happily on
not even close to
gone.
            Tony Rounds
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, November 12 through November 22


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer
 

As Mason’s campuses reopen, programs are offered at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual events. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required for all audience members. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at bschoen@gmu.edu. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.
 
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Virginia Opera: La Bohème
Sat, Nov 13, 8:00
Sun, Nov 14, 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $110, $70, $40.

Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: The Glorious Music of Chopin
Sun, Nov 21, 7:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $48, $41, $29.
 
Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Kathy Mulcahy: Clarinet Masterclass
Sat, Nov 13, 10:00
Virtual Event, check music.gmu.edu for details
Admission: Free.

Mason Jazz Vocal Night
Mon, Nov 15, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 adults; $8 seniors.

Mason Fall New Dances Concert
Fri, Nov 12, 8:00
Sat, Nov 13, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $15 adults; $10 seniors.
 
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Carroll Sockwell - Grey
Continuing through Sun, Nov 14
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.

Somers Voice LLC: Sistas the Musical
Fri, Nov 5, 7:00
Sat, Nov 6 and Nov 13, 2:00, 7:00
Sun, Nov 7 and Nov 14, 3:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25.

The War and Treaty, Concert
Sun, Nov 14, 7:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $44, $37, $26.
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
Meetings & Clubs

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

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Nov 13 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Nov 16  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Nov 17
 		 10:00 am
 6:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
Ethnic Eats Club
Thu Nov 18

 
 		 10:00 am

 4:00 pm
 4:30 pm		 Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
Reston Book Club
Tai Chi Club
Fri Nov 19
 
 
 		  9:30 am
10:00 am
11:00 am
 2:00 pm		 Craft and Conversation
Board of Directors Meeting
Homer, etc.
OLLI Players: Starline 1-17
Sat Nov 20
 		 10:30 am
 1:00 pm		 Tai Chi Club
Personal Computer User Group
Tue Nov 23  9:30 am Annex Art
Wed Nov 24  2:00 pm Memoir and More Writing Group
 
About OLLI E-News

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

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

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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:ollidev.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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ENews-October-29-2021

by

OLLI E-News October 29, 2021
Print a condensed .pdf copy of this newsletter, two web pages per sheet of paper.
Toni Acton, Member Services Committee Chair, Hosts the Fall 2021 Grab 'n' Go Coffee Klatch, October 22. 

October 29, 2021


Editor of the Week: John Nash
Table of Contents

Alerts & Notices

  • Note: Starting in 2022, you will need to register for clubs each term (e.g., when you register for 2022 winter term). This allows OLLI to maintain current club rosters and ensures that you receive emails about your club's activities and events.
  • The next issue of OLLI E-News will be published Friday, November 5; regular deadline for submission of items is Tuesday, November 2, at 6:00.

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From the Desk of the Executive Director

Mason President Marks Anniversary and Hosts Lecture and Forum Series



By Jennifer Disano, Executive Director


The month of October marked the first year since Dr. Gregory Washington’s investiture as George Mason University’s eighth president. In celebration, Dr. Washington hosted a series of lectures and forums to discuss the “Grand Challenges” and “Issues of Our Time” which highlighted many scholars familiar to OLLI classrooms, including Dr. Stephan Crew, Dr. Guadalupe Correa-Cabrera, Dr. Steve Pearlstein, and Dr. Virginia Espina, to name a few.

These scholars shared their research on our environment, immigration policy, media, and social issues and provided their thoughts on the impact of these topics for Mason students, the United States, and the world. I encourage you to check out GMU TV at https://gmutv.gmu.edu/ to view video recordings of these terrific events. At OLLI, thanks to the tireless work of OLLI program coordinators, we are fortunate to enjoy lectures from our wonderful Mason professors as part of our regular programming.

Let Summer 2022 be Your Time to Teach at OLLI

  

By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair
 
If you have ever thought about volunteering to share your expertise on a subject with OLLI members, now is the time to submit your course idea(s) for our 2022 summer session. OLLI invites you to share your expertise on topics that reflect your knowledge in any area including:
  • Classes with a multicultural focus
  • The 4th and 5th estates (news media and social media)
  • International culture and issues
  • The psychology of social media.
If you have an interest in teaching any classes (via Zoom or hybrid) or have questions or ideas of your own, please contact either of the following Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events (HSS/CE) committee chairpersons:

Camille Hodges        mimihodges4@gmail.com
Peg O’Brien             mazob@live.com.
 
Additionally, you may fill out the course proposal form found at this link. The form will go directly to the OLLI program planners.
 
The deadline for submitting proposals to teach during the summer 2022 session is January 28, 2022. We encourage multi-session classes. Thank you!
 

History Club November Meeting

 

By Elizabeth Lambert, History Club Coordinator


The November Zoom meeting of the History Club will take place this coming Wednesday, November 3, at 4:00. Our speaker is Elva Card, OLLI member and teacher, who will give us a brief history of Korea and discuss that country’s modern divided situation. As Elva aptly describes Korea’s place: “It is sometimes called a shrimp caught between two whales.” The two whales, of course, are China and Japan.

Elva’s particular interest in Korea began with a three-week teacher seminar in Korea that included lectures at Yonsei University and a tour of South Korea. Based on her experiences and ongoing studies of Korea, Elva’s presentation will shed light on a country that is unique in many ways. It is, indeed, timely; we hope you will join us on November 3.
Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Meeting
  

By Camille Hodges, Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events Program Planning Group Co-chair
 

Good Morning!

I know you are all enjoying the fall weather as well as OLLI fall courses.
Our next meeting of the Humanities and Social Sciences/Current Events (HSS/CE) Program Planning Group will be via Zoom on Thursday, November 18, at 10:00.

Shannon Morrow will send the link a few days before the meeting date and I will send the agenda at the beginning of that week. Everyone should have received a technology update from me as well as reading information in the OLLI E-News.

I hope you will join us on November 18.

Continue to be safe and well.
 

Boo to You!...and Halloween, too!


 
By John Nash, E-News Editor


We know the line from Percy Bysshe Shelley’s Ode to the West Wind: “O, Wind! If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?” Let’s paraphrase that a bit: ”O, Leaves! If Fall comes, can Halloween be far behind?”

Halloween is this Sunday and the weather in our area promises to be good for bringing out all those ghosts and goblins and trick ‘r treaters. This is one of my favorite holidays as it is for many people. Statistics show that over the past years Halloween has grown in importance as a holiday celebration, with a large commercial boost from costumes, decorations, parties, and – yes – candy!

My wife always put me in charge of dispensing the treats when the doorbell rang. When confronted with a chorus of “trick ‘r treat” I’d sometimes look serious and say, “What kind of tricks can you do?” There was usually a stunned, puzzled look, but then creativity kicked in. I’ve had some Robinson cheerleaders doing cheers on my front yard, many wobbly cartwheels, and some pretty bad singing. But all laced with lots of laughter…and candy!

Once, my son and grandson dressed up as Batman and Robin and came over to trick ‘r treat us. They were sitting in the living room when I went to answer the doorbell. There was a little guy all dressed up as Batman. “Wow! You look great! But I’ve got the real Batman in my house!” He looked around me, saw my son still in costume, and shot right past me into the house! Fortunately, his parents were nearby, laughing, so there was only a fleeting moment of panic of having a young child enter my house unaccompanied!

Sadly, my neighborhood has “matured” and there are fewer trick ‘r treaters that come out now. So if you see a tall, gray-haired guy behind a Covid mask saying "trick ‘r treat," give him some candy or something stronger! But don’t expect a trick…those days are over!

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!
Poet's Corner
Courtesy of the Poetry Workshop
Wouldn’t that be a pity
She fears me
minute me
a speck
to her mammoth magnitude
All I ask is a drop or two
of blood  
just a morsel of life force
Surely a creature
of her majesty
can bestow
an imperceptible nod
to the sanctity of others’
humble existence
That I may ply myself
on her beneficence
I wait poised on a lowly branch
arms extended in supplication
hoping she passes
skims a hand in my direction
so I may latch on
burrow in
suck my fill
Till I need her no more
and drop engorged
to a well-won slumber
What’s that you say?
She could suffer from a disease I transfer 
blossoming into a bullseye
or some such annoyance
 
Well, wouldn’t that be a pity            Susan Rexroad
Arts & Music at George Mason
Performances, October 29 through November 8


By Shelly Gersten, OLLI E-News Staff Writer
 

Mason’s campuses are in the process of reopening. Limited programs at both Fairfax and Manassas campuses, along with virtual performances, are available for us to access and enjoy. Dr. Linda Apple Monson produces a periodic “Notes from the Director.” This email is full of interesting online performances by the students and faculty of the School of Music. If you would like to receive these bulletins, just send an email to Brianna Schoen at bschoen@gmu.edu. Also, the Center for the Arts has a website Mason Arts at Home, which has a calendar of online events and access to many past performances. Information can also be found at CFA ticket purchase page, Center for the Arts YouTube Channel, or the Hylton ticket purchase page.
 
At the Fairfax Campus Venues

Jerusalem Quartet, Strings
Sun, Nov 7, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $60, $51, $36, half-price for youth through grade 12.
Mason Student & Faculty Performances
(see music.gmu.edu for additional student recitals)

Mason School of Theater, A Concert Presentation of Footloose
Fri, Oct 29, 8:00
Sat, Oct 30, 2:00 and 8:00
Sun, Oct 31, 2:00
Concert Hall
Admission:  $30 adults; $15 students, faculty/staff, and seniors.
 
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert
Wed, Nov 3, 8:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors, and $5 youth through grade 12.

Mason Choirs Fall Concert
Sat, Nov. 6, 4:00
Concert Hall
Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors, and $5 youth through grade 12.
At the Hylton Center (Manassas Campus)

Gallery Exhibition: Carroll Sockwell - Grey
Continuing through Sun, Nov 14
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Partners Art Gallery
Admission: Free.
 

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra: Swingin' with the Met
Sat, Oct 30, 8:00
Merchant Hall
Admission: $46, $39, $28.

Axial Dance: Scary Talented!
Sun, Oct 31, 12:30
Large Rehearsal Hall
Admission: $14.

Somers Voice: Sistas, the Musical
Fri, Nov 5, 7:00
Sat, Nov 6, 2:00 and 7:00
Gregory Family Theater
Admission: $25.

Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra: Picture of Pictures at an Exhibition
Sat, Nov 6, 7:30
Merchant Hall
Admission: $20 adults; $15 seniors.
For further details on any of the above events, see the CFA event calendar and the Hylton Center event calendar.
Student Scholarship Spotlight Event
From Mason's Dewberry School of Music
 

RSVP to ringle@gmu.edu by November 3 to get the Zoom link.
Meetings & Clubs

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

The following list covering the next two weeks is extracted for your convenience from the master online calendar maintained by the office. The list is accurate as of mid-week but for the most up-to-date information, please view the latest forecast of coming events on our website (News/OLLI Calendar). Note: All OLLI members are welcome at, and encouraged to attend, meetings of the Board of Directors, committees and resource groups, kick-off coffees, etc. (bolded below). The OLLI office has sent (or will send) emails with links and meeting passwords to club members; you may also log in at the member portal and click on ZOOM CLASS LINKS.
 
Sat Oct 30 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Nov 2  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Nov 3
 		  4:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Mah Jongg Club
History Club
Thu Nov 4  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Nov 5
 		 10:00 am
 1:00 pm		 Town Hall Meeting
Thanksgiving Volunteer Celebration
Sat Nov 6 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
Tue Nov 9  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Wed Nov 10
 		  2:00 pm
 4:00 pm		 Memoir and More Writing Group
Spanish Club
Thu Nov 11  4:30 pm Tai Chi Club
Fri Nov 12
 
 
 
 
 
 		  9:30 am
 9:30 am
11:00 am
11:00 am
 1:00 pm
 2:00 pm
 2:30 pm		 Photography Club
Craft and Conversation
Classic Literature Club
Homer, etc.
Annual Veterans Day Celebration
Cooking Club
Tallwood Book Club
Sat Nov 13 10:30 am Tai Chi Club
 
About OLLI E-News

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

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

Submissions: Members are encouraged to submit letters to the editor, letters to Ms. Ollie Ettakit (on etiquette matters), OLLI-related news items, articles, and photos. Submit material to: 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:ollidev.earthcare.com/” without the quotes.
An Amazon Smile Link appears here. When you shop using the Smile link designating OLLI as your charitable choice, we'll receive a 0.5 % donation, based on the value of your purchase.

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AT GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

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Phone: (703) 503-3384
Fax: (703) 503-2832
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