Once in awhile, it rains. And sometimes, you and your putter aren’t speaking. For Members at Reynolds Lake Oconee, these circumstances are just another reason to attend some of the diverse curriculum offered through the Linger Longer Living Series (LLLS).
The LLLS at Reynolds has become recognized nationally for the depth of its offerings, and, week after week, it’s been rare for a seat to go unfilled. When Marie Garrison launched the LLLS in 2006, she started with the Reynolds Members. “In the beginning, I met with several Members to kick-start my research. In doing so, I learned about their interests, talents, and skills, but I also realized that they did not want the curriculum to be limited only to what they preferred. They had an appetite for a broad variety of events and programming, and that continues to guide me as I research and choreograph new events.”
Garrison’s investigations have led her to ongoing relationships with universities, artists, musicians, scientists, culinarians, philosophers, dance instructors, and even students from local high schools. “With such diversity in the Membership, I’ve always tried to make sure that the offerings are likewise diverse,” says Garrison.
In 2018, Garrison added a learning curriculum to the lineup. Called “Linger Longer Living Beyond,” it addressed contemporary global issues and provides lectures and discussions on subjects as wide-ranging as international trade and security, national politics, and economic and political stability. “The reception to ‘Beyond’ was something even I hadn’t expected,” admits Garrison, “and confirms again that while our Members have a deep appreciation for the culture, culinary, and musical profile of so many of our events, there also is an endless curiosity for learning about new things as well.”
“Beyond” is delivered as a four-class series, with reading and extended resources provided. “It’s like college for an hour or two, except it’s purely volunteer, and Master Chef Derin Moore and his culinary staff serves grilled salmon and a chilled Pinot Grigio,” beams Garrison.
When the cancellation of in-person events throughout much of 2020 forced an adaptation, LLLS programming transitioned seamlessly to the MyReynolds.TV virtual format. The virtual programming – aptly titled ‘Linger Longer Living Room’ - provided Members the same world-class programming they’ve become accustomed to, this time from the comfort and safety of their living rooms.
Members virtually enjoyed a four-part writing series led by published author Clara Silverstein, were serenaded by acclaimed Nashville songwriters and Julliard-trained musicians and presented engaging and thought-provoking lectures by some of the leading experts in their respective fields.
View all Linger Longer Living Room ProgrammingView all Linger Longer Living Room Programming
What’s next?
In November 2020 the first socially distanced in-person event took place. Going forward, the majority of programming will continue to be presented virtually, but Marie is starting to plan a few more in-person events, working closely with presenters and Reynolds Lake Oconee leadership to ensure lectures and concerts feel as enriching as before while taking all precautions necessary to maintain a safe yet comfortable environment for Members.
