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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for U3A Communities
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250409T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250409T120000
DTSTAMP:20250501T141140Z
CREATED:20250316T115701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T141140Z
UID:8728-1744194600-1744200000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:'In the Arms of Morpheus': The Science of Sleep
DESCRIPTION:When we think about what’s really essential for human survival\, it’s air\, food and water that immediately spring to mind. But there’s a fourth one\, something else we also can’t do without\, and that’s sleep. In this wide-ranging presentation\, David Tordoff of Wrekin & Wolverhampton u3a’s will talk about the history of sleep\, what it is and why we need it\, the amounts and stages of sleep\, and also some associated aspects\, such as dreaming\, yawning\, snoring\, and even sleeping in space. So no chance of dozing off during this talk! \nTo view the recording\, click here…‘The Science of Sleep’ (please note: owing to technical issues\, the slides which accompany this talk are only available separately): ‘The Science of Sleep – slideshow’ \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/in-the-arms-of-morpheus-the-science-of-sleep-2/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/The-Science-of-Sleep-image-for-Apr-25.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250408T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250408T120000
DTSTAMP:20250314T082813Z
CREATED:20250314T082813Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250314T082813Z
UID:8710-1744108200-1744113600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:What is geology and why does it matter?
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Mary Garbett \nLeader of the U3A and U3A Interest Groups Online Geology groups\n \nMary will be talking about what geology actually is and the many ways it’s essential to our lives. From the stone we use to build with\, the rocks and minerals vital to our industrial processes and modern lives\, the precious metals and gems that have dazzled us and gone on to serve us in other ways\, to the rare earths that our modern lives depend on and more. \nJoin us and find out how our lives are literally built on the wonders of geology. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/what-is-geology-and-why-does-it-matter/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2151230072.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250331T144500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250331T160000
DTSTAMP:20250326T095310Z
CREATED:20250217T134527Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T095310Z
UID:8534-1743432300-1743436800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:How Does Our Immune System Protect Us?
DESCRIPTION:Speaker:  Professor Robin May  \n Professor of Infectious Disease\, University of Birmingham; Chief Scientific Advisor\, Food Standards Agency  \nOverall\, our immune system is a highly efficient mechanism that protects us from daily threats\, allowing us to stay healthy.\nThe human immune system is as remarkably complex as the brain\, with billions of cells working together in flawless coordination to protect the body from infections. These immune cells have the extraordinary ability to recognize and respond to millions of different pathogens within seconds\, all while maintaining an impressive accuracy that avoids false alarms.\nThis lecture unravels the fascinating mechanisms behind this intricate defense system\, explaining how immune cells achieve such precision\, what happens when the system malfunctions\, and the consequences of such errors. Additionally\, it provides practical insights into maintaining and strengthening your immune system for optimal health.\nCome\, learn\, and squirm to the good the bad\, and the ugly that Robin’s so good at sharing. \nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming Leading Edge meetings https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-leading-edge/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/how-does-our-immune-system-protect-us/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/immune-systems-16x9-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250326T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250326T113000
DTSTAMP:20250325T124334Z
CREATED:20250320T163829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T124334Z
UID:8804-1742983200-1742988600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Geoengineering And Climate Change
DESCRIPTION:The Earth is currently heading for a global average temperature rise of 3C above pre-industrial levels by 2100+. This is because emissions of green house gases continue to increase. These temperatures will persist for 1000s years unless carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere at scale\, or the amount of sunlight reaching the planets surface reduced. Both these geoengineering methods carry unknown risks and require further research. \nianhawker101@gmail.com
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/geoengineering-and-climate-change/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Earth.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250325T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250325T200000
DTSTAMP:20250325T101203Z
CREATED:20250325T101203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T101203Z
UID:8853-1742929200-1742932800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:u3a Communities Books and Literature March 25 meeting
DESCRIPTION:Here is a reminder of the topic and the Zoom link for tonight’s discussion on Time Travel in Literature. \nInput can be as wide as you like to make it …. with plenty of scope on offer. \nWe could stick to novels based on travel itself … or maybe your mind focuses on sagas …. or journeys. \nWhatever\, your input your comments will be very welcome. \nThe session starts on Zoom at 7pm. The link is: \nClick and join Zoom meeting \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/87306957164?pwd=2Skeq3ebPFmS9c2ZWIUGAaUQIpaG7x.1 \nMeeting ID: 873 0695 7164 \nPasscode: 777444 \nVia Zoom App \nMeeting ID: 873 0695 7164 \nPasscode: 777444 \nI look forward to welcoming you. \nRay
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/u3a-communities-books-and-literature-march-25-meeting/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250325T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250325T130000
DTSTAMP:20250317T184508Z
CREATED:20250317T174247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T184508Z
UID:8754-1742904000-1742907600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Restoration Art March 25th noon-1pm
DESCRIPTION:This is a change of programme so that we can welcome a guest speaker\, David Tordoff. \nJoin us for a fascinating exploration into the world of restoration art where we unravel the intricate techniques and ethical dilemmas faced by conservators. Our knowledgeable presenter will highlight remarkable successes and explain some of the innovative methods being employed today. However\, the journey of restoration does have its challenges! We will see captivating examples to spark rich dialogue about the past\, present and future of restoration art. Tuesday 25th March\, noon-1pm
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/restoration-art-march-25th-noon-1pm/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting,Frontpage
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250320T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250320T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T163534Z
CREATED:20250304T122248Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T163534Z
UID:8613-1742466600-1742470200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Trump's New World Order: Strongmen Make the Rules
DESCRIPTION:Following last month’s jaw-dropping Oval Office ambush of Volodymyr Zelenskyy\, and the subsequent freezing of military aid to his country\, the full horror of Donald Trump’s determination to completely rewrite the rule-book on diplomacy and international relations has been laid bare for all to see. Add to that his reckless and punitive trade-wars with friends and foes alike\, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that\, in this US President’s new ‘world order’\, the rules will now be made not by consensus\, but by the most powerful. So\, at this week’s meeting\, we’ll consider whether there’s any way back from the brink\, not just for the beleaguered Ukrainians\, but for the rest of Europe\, and the wider world too? \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/trumps-new-world-order-strongmen-make-the-rules/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/CA-group-Meetings-archive-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250318T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250318T170000
DTSTAMP:20250225T132638Z
CREATED:20250225T123205Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T132638Z
UID:8587-1742310000-1742317200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:How Generative AI works
DESCRIPTION:18th March 2025 at 3pm UK \nThis month we look at Generative AI\, including a bit of history\, opening the pandoras box\, how they work and how they compare. Will include a demo or two. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers nearer the time.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/. \nThis is (approximately) a repeat of the talk from 12 months ago … I thought it would be useful to re-visit since over the 12 months we’ve got quite a few new members and 12 months is a long time in Generative AI!. \nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/how-generative-ai-works/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/ai.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250312T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250312T120000
DTSTAMP:20250316T104141Z
CREATED:20250217T113652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250316T104141Z
UID:8538-1741775400-1741780800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Mini-trams: The Transport Solution You've Never Heard of!
DESCRIPTION:If you were living in Sheffield fifty years ago\, you’ll be familiar with this image. It’s an artists’ impression of how the city’s revolutionary new driverless mini-tram monorail system would look when it’s finished. But\, like so many other ambitious UK infrastructure projects\, funding concerns meant that it never got beyond the drawing-board\, and in 1975\, the Ministry of Transport finally pulled the plug. At our March meeting\, Sam Dauncey will share this story and others about the mini-tram concept and the engineering behind it\, then Neill Allan will tell us about their modern incarnation\, and how AI is helping to make mini-trams a reality. \nTo view the recording\, click here…‘Mini-trams’ \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/mini-trams-the-transport-solution-youve-never-heard-of/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Sheffield-mini-tram-1970s-artists-impression.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250311T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250311T120000
DTSTAMP:20250309T093739Z
CREATED:20250128T182314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250309T093739Z
UID:8347-1741689000-1741694400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:What has the Earth’s magnetic field ever done for us?
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Claire Nichols\nAssociate Professor of the Geology of Planetary Processes\, Department of Earth Sciences\, St Edmund Hall\, University of Oxford\n \nClaire will be talking us about her work on the Earth’s magnetic field and it’s importance to us. \nIn her research Claire uses magnetism as a novel tool to understand Earth and planetary formation\, the environment of early Earth and planetary habitability. Earth has undergone billions of years of complex physical and chemical evolution leaving many questions about its earliest history unresolved. By interrogating the magnetic signals preserved by ancient terrestrial and extraterrestrial materials much insight can be gained as to how our solar system and planet formed and how life subsequently emerged. Claire combines synchrotron and electron microscopy techniques with rock magnetism\, paleomagnetism and fieldwork in an attempt to understand planetary formation and Earth’s earliest history. \nhttps://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-geology/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/what-has-the-earths-magnetic-field-ever-done-for-us/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/magnetic-field-lines-154887_640.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250226T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250226T113000
DTSTAMP:20250202T095230Z
CREATED:20250202T095230Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250202T095230Z
UID:8366-1740564000-1740569400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:CLIMATE TIPPING POINTS
DESCRIPTION:Dr Chris Boulton\, University Of Exeter\, will present on Climate Tipping Points \nDate 10am Wed 26 Feb \nClimate tipping points\, where large sudden and often irreversible changes are expected under gradual climate change\, are a threat to the earth system. Here\, we explore the current understanding of tipping points through various case studies and learn about what models and observations can tell us about their predictability. We will also look ahead to the research that is being carried out in the field\, and to positive tipping points\, the concept of sudden social change\, to aid the global climate crisis. \nContact Ian Hawker \nianhawker101@gmail.com \nTopic: Climate Tipping points\nTime: Feb 26\, 2025 10:00 AM London\nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/85892644839?pwd=jtxGOgzkgRowrihbzbJ8iJ1OC79KU4.1 \nMeeting ID: 858 9264 4839\nPasscode: Saturn
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/climate-tipping-points/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Earth.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250225T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250225T200000
DTSTAMP:20250205T144621Z
CREATED:20250205T140611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250205T144621Z
UID:8401-1740510000-1740513600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Science Fiction or Fantasy?
DESCRIPTION:Are the Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy series\, Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novels and J K Rowling’s Harry Potter stories science fiction or fantasy? A mixture of both? Or\, maybe\, various answers for partcular titles? \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/science-fiction-or-fantasy/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Fantasy-free-use-artwork-25-Feb.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250225T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250225T130000
DTSTAMP:20250216T203941Z
CREATED:20250216T203241Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250216T203941Z
UID:8495-1740484800-1740488400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:A Tale of Obsession
DESCRIPTION:On Tuesday 25th February\, be prepared for a tale involving murder\, love and the supernatural in this nod to the Pre -Raphaelite Brotherhood with one intriguing painting. What could it be? \nYour homework! Find out a little about the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/a-tale-of-obsession/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250224T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250224T163000
DTSTAMP:20250122T185450Z
CREATED:20250122T185450Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250122T185450Z
UID:8311-1740409200-1740414600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Forecasting Weather and Climate in the midst of Chaos and Unpredictability
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Tim Palmer \n Professorial Fellow\, Royal Society Research Professor in Climate Physics\, Jesus College\, Oxford\n  \nProbabilistic ensemble forecasting enhances the accuracy\, reliability\, and usability of weather and climate predictions\, offering a more comprehensive understanding of potential conditions\, thereby improving planning\, risk management\, and decision-making.\nTim Palmer was one of the driving forces behind the development and widespread use of ensemble forecasting techniques at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). He recognised that the atmosphere is inherently chaotic and small errors in initial conditions could lead to large differences in forecast outcomes.\nProbabilistic ensemble forecasting provides several key benefits over traditional deterministic forecasting methods and that is mainly due to the stochastic components Tim introduced.\nCome and learn how this groundbreaking change has made such massive improvements in our weather and climate forecasting.\nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming meetings\nhttps://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-leading-edge/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/forecasting-weather-and-climate-in-the-midst-of-chaos-and-unpredictability/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-01-21_230410-16x9-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250224T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250224T143000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104117Z
CREATED:20250127T104117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104117Z
UID:8324-1740402000-1740407400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Improving Parliamentary Scrutiny of Legislation
DESCRIPTION:It’s been brought to my attention that there is a discussion on this topic being organised by the Constitution Unit at UCL.  If you are interested\, you can book to attend this meeting  (location not yet announced –  Zoom or London??) for free – see here for details: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/constitution-unit/events/2025/feb/improving-parliamentary-scrutiny-legislation. \nThe introduction to the seminar states: \nRecent years have seen frequent complaints about the quality of legislative scrutiny by parliament\, and particularly by the House of Commons. Various commentators and experts have argued that the scrutiny of proposed laws is too often rushed and/or inadequate\, leading to worse policy outcomes for citizens. This online seminar will explore a number of important questions. What problems are there with the legislative process? Have they got worse? And what can be done to fix them?
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/improving-parliamentary-scrutiny-of-legislation/
LOCATION:London\, London\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Improving Legislation Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250220T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250220T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T163704Z
CREATED:20250202T110322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T163704Z
UID:8369-1740047400-1740051000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Preparing for the AI Revolution
DESCRIPTION:Hardly a day goes by without news of yet another amazing breakthrough in AI and/or robotics\, which\, we are told\, will transform our lives in ever more dramatic and profound ways. It’s both exciting and unsettling\, but\, because its sheer complexity goes way over the heads of most ordinary people like us\, we are left wondering whether – in the end – mankind will be liberated\, enslaved\, or even superseded by it. In other words\, are we – both individually and as a society – prepared for what the AI revolution could ultimately mean for all of us? \nIn this meeting\, we’ll discuss specific areas where its impact – for better or worse – is likely to be the greatest. For example\, as AI-driven automation replaces more and more of us in the workplace\, how will those put out of work fill their time\, and who will pay the taxes to fund public services? Or how about a robotic carer to look after you in a permanently over-stretched health service – it’s already happening in Japan! I’m sure you can think of many other questions like this\, so why not come along and share your hopes and fears. \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/preparing-for-the-ai-revolution/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/CA-group-Meetings-archive-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250218T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250218T163000
DTSTAMP:20250122T130739Z
CREATED:20250122T130714Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250122T130739Z
UID:8306-1739890800-1739896200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Is it time to move to the Fediverse ?
DESCRIPTION:Regular social media has been a source of concern for many years\, with specific concerns around data gathering\, profiling and hidden algorithms used to sell more ads. \nIn 2016 the Fediverse was created as a new way to implement social media. \nRecently\, of course\, we’ve seen Twitter/X being taken over by Elon Musk and content checking removed from Facebook. \nIs it time to move from regular social media to the Fediverse ? \nIn today’s talk\, we briefly cover social media history and some of the perceived issues associated with them.  We then look at what the Fediverse is\, how it’s constructed\, and present a demo. Finally\, we touch on other areas such as instant messaging and search engines. \nWe ask\, should the U3A join the Fediverse ? \n\nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \n18th February 2025 at 3pm UK \nUse the subscribe form to sign up to this or any other U3ACommunity groups.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/is-it-time-to-move-to-the-fediverse/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/fediverse.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250213T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250213T170000
DTSTAMP:20250123T135125Z
CREATED:20250122T210727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T135125Z
UID:8318-1739458800-1739466000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Improving Legislation\, Monthly Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Monthly meetings are currently scheduled for the second Thursday in the month at 3pm\, the next one being on the 13th February.  The topics for discussion at the February meeting are: \n\nthe proposed standard for drafting UK legislation and\nthe draft Bill to replace the Consumer Rights Act\, 2015.\n\nPlease aim to join the Zoom Meeting 5 to 10 minutes before it starts so that we can overcome any technical problems and start the meeting on time.\nhttps://zoom.us/j/93358056829?pwd=Cax9DhiG5kZb2hfUNJUphfMgR7H28O.1
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/improving-legislation-monthly-meeting/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Improving Legislation Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="David Youll":MAILTO:legislation@u3acommunities.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250212T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250212T120000
DTSTAMP:20250226T114609Z
CREATED:20250120T123818Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T114609Z
UID:8292-1739356200-1739361600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Human Personality: Nature or Nurture?
DESCRIPTION:Have you ever thought about whether you got your amazing intelligence from your parents? Or maybe you’ve been wondering whether that grumpy old git in your local u3a group got his irritating habits from a difficult childhood? In other words\, to what extent are our personalities shaped by our genes\, or by our upbringing? This ‘Nature’ versus ‘Nurture’ question has perplexed – and divided – the experts for well over a century\, but in more recent times the application of novel molecular biological techniques has been providing new insights into this age-old debate. In this fascinating talk\, John Warr of Winchester u3a will summarise the past and present work in this contentious area. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Human Personality: Nature or Nurture?’ \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/human-personality-nature-or-nurture/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Nature-vs-Nurture-image.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250128T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250128T203000
DTSTAMP:20250119T122726Z
CREATED:20250119T122726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250119T122726Z
UID:8282-1738090800-1738096200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Discussion on your favourite Science Fiction novel
DESCRIPTION:National Science Fiction Day is celebrated annually in January. \nBut science fiction is a less accepted literature genre. \nNo way it has to be. \nBring your personal selections to share and celebrate. \nIf you are not already a subscriber click on https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-books-and-literature/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/discussion-on-your-favourite-science-fiction-novel/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Science-Fiction-.-free-use-artwork-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250128T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250128T130000
DTSTAMP:20250120T145600Z
CREATED:20250103T195626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T145600Z
UID:8168-1738065600-1738069200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Turner’s Timeless Treasurers
DESCRIPTION:The year starts with ‘Turner’s Timeless Treasurers’. This is a brief exploration of 4 of his most famous works with a focus on ‘The Fighting Temeraire’. \n\n28th January 2025 at 12pm UK
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/turners-timeless-treasurers/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting,Frontpage
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250123T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250123T163000
DTSTAMP:20241130T234826Z
CREATED:20241130T234826Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241130T234826Z
UID:7933-1737644400-1737649800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:New Findings from Old Bones: Genetic Histories from Ancient Britain
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Marina Soares Da Silva \n Postdoctoral Fellow\, The Francis Crick Institute\, Ancient Genomics Laboratory\n  \nThe Francis Crick Ancient Genomics Group focuses on extracting\, sequencing\, and analysing ancient DNA to explore human evolution\, migration patterns\, and historical genetics\, providing insights into past populations and their environments.\nMarina develops interdisciplinary research at the intersection of genetics\, archaeology\, and history. She uses ancient DNA recovered from skeletal remains from diverse archaeological contexts to study the genetics of past human populations.\nLearn how time-stratified ancestry analysis tracks the shaping of genetic diversity\, influencing ancestry composition and evolution across generations due to migration\, interbreeding\, and natural selection.\nCheck out ways to facilitate the interpretation of burial context and living conditions and elucidate past perceptions of biological sex and people with diverse biological traits.\nDiscover how to reconstruct a chronology of gene losses and acquisitions in pathogens derived from ticks and lice\, and revise prior understanding of how the plague was spread to Europe’s northwestern periphery.\nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming meetings\nhttps://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-leading-edge/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/new-findings-from-old-bones-genetic-histories-from-ancient-britain/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Human_remains-16x9-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250122T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250122T113000
DTSTAMP:20250112T190355Z
CREATED:20250109T194647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250112T190355Z
UID:8234-1737540000-1737545400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:CLEAN UK ENERGY BY 2030
DESCRIPTION:The UK government has set a target of 2030 to meet 100% clean energy demand. This includes a minimum of 95% of electricity generation from low carbon sources and maximum 5% of electricity generation from unabated gas. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has agreed to meet the challenge and detailed plans will be announced later this year. The main elements of the transition to clean energy are Grid enhancement\, Planning reforms\, Renewable energy auctions and Flexibility and ‘dispatchable’ (turn on/off-able) clean power. \nWe discuss what this means in practice and the challenges ahead. \nIan Hawker \nianhawker101@gmail.com
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/clean-uk-energy-by-2030/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/climate-change-2063240_1280.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250121T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250121T163000
DTSTAMP:20250113T221827Z
CREATED:20250104T110150Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250113T221827Z
UID:8193-1737471600-1737477000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Tuya as a component in my Smart Home
DESCRIPTION:In todays talk\, Peter Weston will be taking us through how he uses Tuya devices in his smart home.  We will also cover some of the protocols used in home automation. \n\nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \n21st January 2025 at 3pm UK \nUse the subscribe form to sign up to this or any other U3ACommunity groups.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/tuya-as-a-component-in-my-smart-home/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/tuya.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250116T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250116T170000
DTSTAMP:20241231T101616Z
CREATED:20241209T101111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241231T101616Z
UID:7965-1737039600-1737046800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Improving Legislation - Kick-off meeting
DESCRIPTION:Thank you for joining the U3A Communities group working on Improving Legislation.  With Christmas coming up\, I have decided that we should hold our first meeting in the New Year\, on Thursday\, January 16th from 3.00 to 5.00pm.  My experience tells me that not everyone will be able to make that date/time\, but hopefully most people who have subscribed to the group will be able to attend.  Please let me know if you can attend or will not be able to attend. \nMy plan is to give you a summary of why I started this group and the research I have done on this subject over the last 10 years.  We’ll then move on to discuss what work we can do to improve legislation and how we might get more people involved in improving legislation. \nI’ll be sending out a Zoom (or similar technology) invite for the meeting nearer the time\, so in the meantime\, please put this meeting in your diary. \nIf you already have specific thoughts on improving legislation\, please let me know in advance of the meeting.  And please let me know if you can attend or will not be able to attend.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/improving-legislation-kick-off-meeting/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Improving Legislation Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="David Youll":MAILTO:legislation@u3acommunities.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250116T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250116T113000
DTSTAMP:20260513T111836Z
CREATED:20250104T143837Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T111836Z
UID:8201-1737023400-1737027000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Starmer's First Six Months: Can Things Get Any Worse!?
DESCRIPTION:Back in July\, after 14 years in the political wilderness\, Labour swept back into power with a huge majority\, and a commitment to change our country for the better. But today\, six months on\, public confidence in the party – and the Prime Minister in particular – have slumped to near all-time lows\, as the realities and responsibilities of governing in difficult times have taken their toll. And as if all that wasn’t bad enough\, the barrage of criticism – albeit ill-informed – he’s now facing from ‘across the pond’ could hardly have come at a worse time\, with President Trump’s inauguration just days away. So\, for our topic this month\, we’ll take a look at some of the big challenges facing the government as they seek to steady the ship\, and start to deliver on their promises to the electorate. Can they do it? Why not join us for an hour of lively conversation about those pressing issues. \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/labours-first-six-months-starmers-baptism-of-fire/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/CA-group-Meetings-archive-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250108T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250108T120000
DTSTAMP:20250113T094048Z
CREATED:20241221T105849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250113T094048Z
UID:8036-1736332200-1736337600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Weird Geology
DESCRIPTION:Geology\, so they say\, is as old as the hills\, but it’s a very broad field\, and the planet we call home is blessed with some very odd geological quirks. So why not join us for a grand tour of some of these amazing wonders of nature – from ‘fairy chimneys’ (above) to ice towers\, blue lava to the ‘eye’ of the Sahara\, and many more besides – in the company of expert guide Mary Garbett (Risborough & District u3a)\, who also leads the IGO Geology Group\, and will shortly be launching a parallel group right here\, on u3a Communities. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Weird Geology’ \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, or the new Geology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/weird-geology/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cappadocia-Fairy-Chimneys.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241224T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241224T130000
DTSTAMP:20241213T110433Z
CREATED:20241211T215819Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241213T110433Z
UID:7982-1734998400-1735045200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:No Art History December 24th 2024
DESCRIPTION:No Art History meeting on December 24th. The next meeting is January 28th 2025 at noon. Thank you all members who have come to our meetings and helped to make them memorable and special.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/no-art-history-december-24th-2024/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting,Frontpage
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241223T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241223T203000
DTSTAMP:20241213T162826Z
CREATED:20241213T155947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241213T162826Z
UID:7991-1734980400-1734985800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:How relevant is Christmas Carol today?
DESCRIPTION:Dicken’s most popular short story was a sell-out when printed and has remained the Christmas story of choice today. Why? \nIf you are not already subscribed\, subscription is free and you will receive joining details and news about forthcoming meetings https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-books-and-literature/
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/how-relevant-is-christmas-carol-today/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Ebenezer-Scrooge-free-16-clipart.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241219T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241219T113000
DTSTAMP:20260513T111647Z
CREATED:20241202T111152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T111647Z
UID:7937-1734604200-1734607800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Good News Stories from 2024
DESCRIPTION:As another year draws to a close\, and the nights draw in\, it can sometimes feel like the most significant events of the last twelve months were all doom and gloom. So instead\, as the festive season beckons\, let’s raise our spirits by taking a look back at some of the good news stories of 2024. Whether they’re of global\, national\, or even just local interest where you live\, this is your opportunity to share them with the rest of us\, so why not join us for an hour of uplifting conversation! \nIf you haven’t yet done so\, there’s still time to join our mailing list\, which will ensure that you receive those all-important Zoom log-in details… just click here: Subscribe to the Current Affairs group
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/good-news-stories-from-2024/
CATEGORIES:Current Affairs Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/CA-group-Meetings-archive-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR