Pumpkin Spice Season is Upon Us!

Between retailers putting out swimsuits in the middle of winter and my predilection for wearing sandals well into October, I constantly have to remind myself what time of year it actually is. Throw in some global warming and the fact that I’m always trying to plan 6-months or so ahead for work, and it’s a wonder I ever really “live in the moment”. I’ve always loved autumn and still do, but now it seems to get celebrated earlier while arriving later. Starbucks released its PSL (that’s Pumpkin Spice Latte, to those who are not in the know) on August 24 this year. “Too soon!” I bemoaned loudly to anyone within earshot. Even now, I’m just warming up to the idea of its acceptability. The only reasons that I think it might—just might—be safe for the Pumpkin Spice Latte at this point in the year are (1) I did have two days this week when I probably should have worn a light jacket but did not, and (2) it starts getting dark at around 6 pm each evening. Unlike the area where I grew up, the leaf-peepers aren’t blocking traffic just yet as they crane their necks to see the majestic hues transforming the landscape. The leaves may change more slowly here, but if we are lucky, they will all be raked up well before the Shamrock Shakes are prime for the taking.

Stay safe and healthy,

Tracy Jacobs

TU Retired Faculty Fall Forum presents

Convicting the Innocent: How, Why, and What Can Be Done?

speaker Michele Nethercott

October 22, 2021
2 p.m. in the South Campus Pavilion
Registration required

Nethercott, the founding Director and driving force behind The Innocence Project in Maryland, has been described “by current and former inmates in the Maryland prison system as a ‘steely-eyed pit bull’” despite her kindly demeanor. “[H]er name became synonymous with the effort in Baltimore to correct costly mistakes of the justice system.” Nethercott has “has represented numerous clients who were exonerated on the basis of post-conviction DNA testing and other forms of newly discovered evidence” and is considered an expert on forensic use of DNA. “She is well known for … overturning decades-old wrongful convictions.”

Note: Paid visitor parking is available until 3 pm. After that, parking is free. For directions and parking information, please visit www.towson.edu/maps

The Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore invites you:

Mark Oppenheimer in conversation with Saima Sitwat
Squirrel Hill: The Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting and the Soul of a Neighborhood

Join author Mark Oppenheimer, in conversation with writer and educator Saima Sitwat, on his new book, Squirrel Hill: The Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting and the Soul of a Neighborhood, a piercing portrait of the struggles and triumphs of one of America’s renowned Jewish neighborhoods in the wake of unspeakable tragedy, that highlights the hopes, fears, and tensions all Americans must confront on the road to healing.

Event tickets include one copy of the book and access to the in-person discussion event. Your book purchase not only supports the arts at the Baltimore JCC and local independent booksellers, but it also ensures that we can continue to bring you these engaging events. Books will be available for pickup at the event and shipped after the event; please allow 7-10 business days for delivery due to Covid-related USPS delays!

Part of the Baltimore Festival of Jewish Literature, a showcase of literary events reflecting important issues facing the Jewish community, featuring conversations with authors to inspire work towards justice and peace. This event is presented in In Partnership with The JCC of Greater Baltimore/ The Gordon Center, Osher at Towson University , Jewish Volunteer Connection, and Har Sinai Oheb Shalom.

Towson University’s Albert S. Cook Library presents

Human Library at TU

Wednesday, October 27, 2021
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in the University Union, Room 302A

Do you have a story to share? Towson University’s Albert S. Cook Library is looking for people who are willing to engage in conversations about their identities as part of the Human Library Program. How it works: Those people who sign up to be books are checked out by readers who want to have a conversation with the books about who they are.

Are you ready to participate in this year's Human Library? Volunteer to be a book or register to be a reader.

A partnership with Baltimore County Department of Aging’s Age- and Dementia-Friendly Initiatives, Towson University, and Baltimore County Parks and Recreation.

Free & Friendly Forest Meetups

October 12–November 16
Every Tuesday, 11 a.m. – Noon
Willow Grove Farm entrance to Cromwell Valley Park; we begin at the picnic tables in front of the Nature Center

Bring: Mask; individual water bottle
Dress: Dress for the weather – we’re on rain or shine!
Lunch: Linger with your picnic lunch following the program if you’d like

We welcome you and your friends, family, and neighbors to a lovely hour exploring nature together and meeting up with old and new friends. Our pace is friendly – which means slow and enjoyable to meet the needs and interests of individuals of all ages and abilities – especially caregivers/care partners and those who are older and living with physical and/or cognitive challenges.

To RSVP please contact Emily Kearns at ekearns@baltimorecountymd.gov or call 410-887-4751.

We remember Osher members that have passed away recently. While we work hard to provide accurate updates, please let us know if you are aware of an Osher friend’s passing by contacting osher@towson.edu.

• Sue N. Greene