January, 2025 - Vol5, No3 | |
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We Have A New Look!
Welcome to the newly redesigned OLLILIfe. As you look through this month's edition, you'll notice that some of the features have been streamlined, while others look the same as usual.
Our goal is to make it easier for you to access articles by reducing the amount of scrolling needed to get from one section to another. So the longer features, such as our news articles, the Membership Corner and the Travel section. are now presented in an abbreviated form with a Read More button at the bottom.
To read an entire article, click on the Read More button below it. When you're finished reading, click on the X at the top right corner of the article and you'll be back in the main section.
Although OLLILife now looks somewhat different, it continues to include the regular content you've come to enjoy. And some of the features that contain shorter articles, such as Out and About and SIGnificant Events, have not changed.
We hope you like this new version of OLLILife. As always we welcome your feedback. We would love to hear from you about the new design and to receive any of your articles and pictures pertaining to OLLI-USF and other OLLIs in the country. We are always available at ollinewsusf@gmail.com.
--Kathy, Pat and Sandy
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FROM THE DESK OF VERONICA MAXWELLWhat's New? | |
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A New Year, New Opportunities
Happy New Year, OLLI-USF friends!
Welcome to 2025 — a year bursting with possibilities and opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. As we gear up for an incredible kickoff of classes, we are excited to offer something for everyone, with topics and experiences to match every learning appetite.
This year, we’re going big. From exploring our newest venues to attending engaging events, OLLI-USF is your gateway to celebrating life, expanding horizons, and embracing joy. If travel is on your bucket list, join us for one of our group vacations and create lasting memories with fellow learners.
Reflecting on the success of our holiday gathering, I want to thank everyone who joined us. It was truly spectacular! Now, let’s keep that momentum going. Meet me at our first big event of the year: the Winter/Spring Open House on Jan. 8. I can’t wait to see familiar faces and welcome new members into our vibrant community.
My heart smiles in anticipation of what’s ahead: new partnerships, new friendships, and new ways to have fun while learning. Here’s to making 2025 a year to remember—let’s live out loud together!
The photo shows me with longtime OLLI faculty member Dr. Susan Northcutt.
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MARK YOUR CALENDARSWhat's New? | |
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CIRCLE GATHERINGS:
Please read the article under Membership Corner to see if your Circle is scheduled to meet.
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Jan. 8 - OLLI Open House
Check out more OLLI events here:
OLLI Calendar
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A Very Merry Holiday Party!
These merry Christmas elves were among some 200 OLLI members at the OLLI Holiday Gathering on Dec. 12. Read more about the party and see many more photos of your friends having fun.
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Helping Feed-a-Bull For The Holidays
OLLI members were brimming with generosity and good tidings at the Holiday Gathering on Dec. 12. Read more about the holiday Feed-a-Bull Pantry donation collection.
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Reminder: New Open House Coming Your Way - Jan. 8
Come and listen to our guest speaker, Jeff Beradelli, chief meteorologist and climate specialist for WFLA News Channel 8.
Also, new classes will be announced at the event. Indulge in some delicious pastries and a cup of coffee while you visit with other OLLI members.
You can register here for the Open House and get all the details.
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Happy New Year Members!
Read what Pam Tyler, chair of the Membership Committee, has to say about the OLLI Circles and the upcoming Open House.
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Special Reminder: Newcomer Luncheon
When: January 24
Where: Chicken Salad Chick, 12 p.m., 2790 E. Fowler Blvd., Temple Terrace
Come meet OLLI leadership and other OLLI newcomers over a lively lunch and conversation about ALL About OLLI. RSVP to the Evite or directly to Sally Ordway.
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Circle Luncheon Dates
Some Circles already have luncheons planned for 2025. Check to see if your circle is one of them so you can mark your calendar accordingly.
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What Is Your Circle number?
In doubt as to which circle your zip code falls under? This attachment will help!
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A Extraordinary Day at Bok Tower
A day trip arranged by the Travel Opportunities Committee proved to be an exciting time for all 24 members who attended in early December. Read about the concert, the views, a mansion and other fantastic facts that were learned and enjoyed by all.
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Happy and Peaceful New Year Wishes from OLLI Outdoors
Where in the world is OLLI Outdoors? You never know, but one thing you can be sure of – it’s lovely and peaceful outdoors with OLLI friends. Whether we are cycling, Zooming, walking, sharing, paddling, or hiking – nature restores us. Here we are at the Peace Pagoda at Bonnet Springs Park, Lakeland. OLLI Outdoors SIG members wish you peace for the new year. If you enjoy nature, please consider joining by showing your interest here.
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A Walk Back Into
Ybor City's History
Fourteen OLLI members gathered at Centennial Park in Ybor City on Dec. 4 for the Ybor City Historic District Walking Tour class.
OLLI Instructor Joe Caravella took us back into the 1930s and the history of his family and ancestors who had lived in Ybor City.
We stopped by the Immigrant Family Statue in Centennial Park and visited the Italian Club, the Cuban Club, Ferlita Bakery, and more. We had interesting discussions about these significant landmarks along the way.
The weather was perfect for a stroll through this beautiful part of Tampa.
-- Grizelle Aldea
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A Yummy Lunch
Yummy House on East Hillsborough Avenue in Tampa was the setting for the Dec. 6 monthly meeting of Conviviality and Celebrations. Twenty-two diners enjoyed generous portions of delicious food and great service.
Conviviality and Celebrations is a group of OLLI members and guests who meet once a month for lunch at various eateries in the Tampa area to celebrate and recognize birthdays and other special occasions.
The next luncheon is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 13, at 1 p.m. at Citrus Park Longhorn, 8212 Citrus Park Dr., Tampa.
All are welcome to join in the fun. Email Kat Hanscom for more information.
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A Lunch Bunch
Goes To Dade City
Kafe Kokopelli in quaint Dade City was the setting for a Food, Glorious Food! lunch bunch on Dec.17.
From fried green tomatoes and shrimp tacos, to she-crab soup and sandwiches, the menu was varied - comprising mouthwatering Southern cuisine.
December is a great time to have lunch and stroll through Dade City. After lunch, some people headed to the tea shop to sample shortbread; I won’t mention names!
Three went on the historic Dade City walking tour where we learned this bit of trivia: Who is the only U.S. president to visit Pasco County? The answer: Calvin Coolidge was hosted at the Gray Moss Inn, built circa 1910.
It was a great day for enjoying good food, companionship, history, shopping ... and shortbread!.
-- Diane White, story and photos
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They're Taking A Holiday From The Kitchen
Here's what OLLI's cooking clubs were doing this holiday season:
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The ABC Cooking Club At Babushka's
The ABC Cooking Club celebrated the holidays together on Dec. 19 by having someone else do the cooking. The club members met at Babushka's restaurant in Temple Terrace for some delicious Eastern European fare and great conversation.
Club members will be back in the kitchen this month for their regular meeting. The challenge: each must prepare a dish that starts with the letter Q.
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Cooks On The Loose Does Cookies
The theme was pastries for the Cooks on the Loose cooking club on Dec. 11, when club members met outdoors for a homemade cookie exchange at Felicitous Coffee & Tea shop in Tampa. The group found seats outside the busy venue, braving the brisk weather but enjoying being together.
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Results of the poll "When Do you like to Decorate for Christmas?" | |
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Last month in the “just for fun” poll, we found Fred Flinstone tied up with Christmas lights, and he wasn’t a happy decorator. This month we see he has conquered decorating the tree and feels much more exuberant.
The poll asked when you like to decorate for the Christmas holiday, or if you don't decorate for various reasons. The results showed that right after Thanksgiving was the favorite time to start the holiday. Below, you will see how each choice fared.
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For more information on OLLI SIGs, see the full list here. Several of the SIGs meet on Zoom; others are meeting in person and are organizing group outings and events. To visit a SIG, email the contact(s) below. | |
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Community of Readers and Writers
We meet via Zoom for discussion, special events, and our interest in novels, nonfiction, short stories, flash fiction, memoirs, and essays. We encourage feedback partners through group conversation and one-on-one with experienced readers. Our private Facebook site is a resource for developing your storytelling and literary skills. Contact Liesse Chable, facilitator for Readers and Writers at readersandwriters.too@gmail.com.
China SIG
The China SIG fosters an appreciation for and understanding of the Chinese people and their cultures. Our group meets at least quarterly, either virtually or in person. We celebrate Chinese traditional holidays and enjoy presentations and videos by a variety of speakers and musicians. For more information about the China SIG, please contact Kun Shi or Nancy Stuart.
Florida Gardening SIG
Gardeners, unite. The Florida Gardening SIG has members of all levels of experience to learn and share more about gardening in Florida. We discuss house plants, balcony/patio gardening, food and butterfly gardening as well as specialized gardening such as orchids, roses or native plants, pesticide and fertilizer use. We have guest speakers, tour public and private gardens, and more. Seasonal weather will impact how and where meetings are conducted (on-line, in-person, etc.) Contact us at olliusfgardens@gmail.com for more information and to be placed on the mailing list.
Food, Glorious Food!
Mon., Jan. 20, at 11 a.m. Lunch, shopping and a cooking demonstration at Jo-El's Kosher Deli, Market & Cafe.
Mon., Jan. 27. Tour Feeding Tampa Bay's headquarters and learn how you can support this important community resource.
To learn more about FGF or to join the SIG, contact Sandy Buckley.
Games SIGs
Online Games:
Thurs., Jan. 9, at 3:30 p.m. To play Scattergories, email Kathy Palmer for the Zoom link and more information.
Board Games:
Thurs., Jan. 16, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the Seminole Heights library. Email Robyn Cheung, or text her at 215-880-9212 for more information.
German Conversation
Tues., Jan. 14 and 28, at 1 p.m. For more information, contact Christine Basch.
Hablemos! Spanish Conversation SIG
All levels of Spanish speakers welcome. Zoom meeting Tues., Jan. 7 and 21, at 3 p.m. Email olli.hablemos@gmail.com for more information.
Ici on parle français!
Mon., Jan. 6 and 20, at 1 p.m. For an invitation, contact Lise Bérubé.
Shutterbugs
Do you like to take photos of people, places, and things? Join the OLLI Shutterbugs on photo outings to places like farmers' markets, craft fairs, and many other venues in and around Tampa Bay. For more information email Rich Edwards or Jean Nixon.
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Local Culture SIG
Do you enjoy attending plays and concerts, historical tours, art museums and the like? Do that and more with fellow OLLI members while you discover what our local culture has to offer. Let’s have more fun together!
Note: This SIG is currently looking for new leadership. If interested, please contact Nancy Baily-Williamson.
OLLI Outdoors
The Outdoor SIG is kicking off 2025 with seven events. Resolve to get those steps in, learn, and have fun!
Fri., Jan. 3 - New Year Kickoff walk at Carrollwood Village
Thurs., Jan. 9 - Hike (wait list)
Sat. Jan. 18 - McIntosh Preserve hike (all levels) Mon., Jan. 20 - Bike ride
Fri., Jan. 24 - Zoom social and program: bluebirds
Sat., Jan. 25 - Community engagement at Fire Fest (all levels)
Wed., Jan 29 - Manatee Viewing Center presentation and viewing
Visit our website to learn more about us. Ready to have outdoors fun? Sign up here today!
Still have questions, email the SIG Leaders at OLLIOutdoors@gmail.com for details about these events.
Operatunity
New to opera or an aficionado? Join OLLI's opera SIG as we explore ways to expand our knowledge and appreciation of opera. We meet in-person monthly on the fourth Monday of each month at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tampa, 11400 Morris Bridge Road, Tampa, from 10 a.m. to noon. We enjoy lively presentations and discussions about opera that focus on Met in HD Broadcasts. An optional lunch at a local restaurant to follow. For more information about this SIG, contact Kathryn Alyson.
Politics SIG
The Politics SIG provides a forum for discussion and informal debate on topics related to U.S. domestic and foreign policy. The P-SIG complements and promotes OLLI-USF classes on political science and history and is an adjunct to our weekly Saturday Social, which covers current events of political interest. For more information, please contact Rich Kennedy.
Self-Hypnotherapy SIG
Explore and share many approaches that can be utilized and practiced dealing with stress, unwanted emotions and feelings and the many challenges that everyday life presents. If interested, please email Anne Haywood for more information.
Prerequisite: Self-Hypnotherapy Class
Talking Movies
Fri., Jan. 17, at 1:30 p.m. Watch a movie and then get together on Zoom to talk about it. Movie to be determined. For more information, contact Arlene Zimney.
Write Time for Poets
Thurs., Jan. 9, at 2 p.m. For more information about this SIG, email Cath Mason.
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Remembering David Campbell
David N. Campbell, 95, passed away at his home in Tampa on November 21.
David was a former OLLI member best remembered for his participation in a class offered by OLLI Instructor Brenda Tipps in 2018: On The Road Again, a Reader’s Theater production. He also participated in OLLI history and science classes.
David served on the USS Robert L. Wilson, a United States Gearing-class destroyer during the Korean War. Once back in civilian life, he had a long and prestigious career in human resources and labor relations that led him to various locations in the United States. He retired from TECO Energy in Tampa in 1989 as a senior vice president.
David was a performing member of the Tampa Oratorio Society and served as president of the St. Andrew's Society of Tampa Bay. For several years, he was a guardian ad litem representing a dozen children. He received a number of honors including an Outstanding Alumnus Award from Ashland University, the Silver Knight of Management Award of the National Management Association, and the President's Award from the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce.
The family will host a celebration of David’s life on Saturday, Feb. 8, at 11 a.m., at Tampa Palms Country Club.
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Send Us Your News
OLLILife wants to share topics of interest that pertain to OLLI-USF and other OLLIs in the country.
Send your article to ollinewsusf@gmail.com to reach your editors Sandy Buckley, Pat Dodge, Veronica Maxwell, and Kathy Palmer. If possible, please send a picture along with the article as pictures help tell the story.
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Carolyn Clark is our Goodwill Ambassador, sending notes of support, congratulations, and comfort on our behalf. If you or another OLLI member have a significant personal event, please email cvclark58@gmail.com. | | | | |
