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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for U3A Communities
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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
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241217T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241217T163000
DTSTAMP:20241206T181213Z
CREATED:20241206T175717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241206T181213Z
UID:7962-1734447600-1734453000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Numerical Computing and Computing Algebra
DESCRIPTION:In today’s talk\, Tomy Duby will show that a modern computer (including a smartphone) can also do complex scientific and engineering calculations. To achieve this\, one needs suitable programs. \nUsing two free software packages\, he will show that the computer can behave as a very sophisticated pocket calculator and how using another package\, the computer can do algebra\, that is to deal with symbols. \n\nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \n17th December 2024 at 3pm UK \nJoin us at : \nhttps://zoom.us/j/94240110991?pwd=ulLbsV92ck1nUmnt5B7T5ag2bhDJgf.1 \nMeeting ID: 942 4011 0991\nPasscode: 159769
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/numerical-computing-and-computing-algebra/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/digital-computing.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241211T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241211T120000
DTSTAMP:20241224T110341Z
CREATED:20241118T121257Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241224T110341Z
UID:7833-1733913000-1733918400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Ig Nobel Prizes 2024
DESCRIPTION:For over a century\, the ultimate recognition of ground-breaking scientific research has been the award of a Nobel Prize. But there’s another series of annual awards\, less prestigious but no less cherished\, which honour\, not the greatest achievements in science\, but the funniest. They’re called the ‘Ig’ Nobel Prizes\, and\, since their launch in 1991\, they’ve provided a humorous insight into the quirky side of scientific research. In this light-hearted presentation\, Barry Zussman\, of Torridge u3a\, will reveal the most outlandish prize-winners of 2024. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Ig Nobel Prizes (2024)’ \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-ig-nobel-prizes-2024/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ig-Nobel-Prizes-13-Dec-23-image-final.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241127T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241127T113000
DTSTAMP:20241118T164754Z
CREATED:20241118T164501Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241118T164754Z
UID:7849-1732701600-1732707000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:THE FUTURE OF ENERGY
DESCRIPTION:The future of energy depends on four main factors solar\, batteries\, energy intelligence and China. Solar power is scalable and easy to install. Lithium-ion batteries provide the storage necessary to maintain steady customer supply at lower cost than alternative techologies. Energy intelligence is the ability to interconnect multiple energy sources whilst improving efficiency. This energy revolution is mostly financed by China. \nIan Hawker \nianhawker101@gmail.com
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-future-of-energy/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241126T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241126T130000
DTSTAMP:20241113T202519Z
CREATED:20241113T183055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241113T202519Z
UID:7766-1732622400-1732626000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Andy Warhol-But is it Art? Guest speaker\, Kate Scott
DESCRIPTION:Kate is another superb speaker who has a lot of knowledge about many artists and Andy Warhol is one of them. Come along and discover more about his art and answer the key question ‘But is it Art?’!
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/andy-warhol-but-is-it-art-guest-speaker-kate-scott/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting,Frontpage
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241125T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241125T163000
DTSTAMP:20241025T131334Z
CREATED:20241025T131334Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T131334Z
UID:6972-1732546800-1732552200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Fusion Explained for Non Specialists
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Yukata Kamada \n Deputy Director General of ITER\n(International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor)  \nITER is a monumental scientific and engineering challenge. Its construction has been delayed multiple times due to the complexity of the project\, logistical issues\, and funding challenges. However\, despite these setbacks\, it remains a cornerstone of international efforts to develop fusion energy.\nIt is one of the world’s largest and most ambitious energy projects\, aiming to demonstrate the feasibility of nuclear fusion as a large-scale and carbon-free source of energy. Fusion\, the process that powers the sun and stars\, involves fusing light atomic nuclei (like hydrogen) to form heavier nuclei (like helium)\, releasing vast amounts of energy in the process.\nCome and learn about the equipment\, the processes\, the successes and setbacks that creating commercially viable technology entails.\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/fusion-explained-for-non-specialists/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Fusion-explained-to-Non-Specialists.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241121T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241121T113000
DTSTAMP:20260513T111501Z
CREATED:20241102T104025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T111501Z
UID:7267-1732185000-1732188600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Middle East Crisis: Stepping Back from the Brink
DESCRIPTION:A year on from the brutal Hamas incursion into southern Israel\, the bloody chain of events it triggered has left tens of thousands dead across the region\, and has brought Israel and its arch-enemy Iran to the brink of war. Diplomacy has failed\, peace talks have stalled\, and now the impending return of Donald Trump to the White House has added even more uncertainty to this seemingly intractable crisis. So is there any hope of avoiding what some are already calling a new Armageddon. What do you think? Why not join us for an hour of lively discussion about this most divisive of 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/next-current-affairs-group-meeting-thursday-21st-november/
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:20241119T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241119T163000
DTSTAMP:20241112T141014Z
CREATED:20241112T141014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241112T141014Z
UID:7697-1732028400-1732033800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Backups
DESCRIPTION:This month we have a talk about various aspects of backups. \nWe’ll touch on why\, different backup schemes and what I do.  Included is a couple of videos. \nPlenty of time is reserved for discussions. \n19th November 2024 at 3pm UK (date fixed!)\n \nNOTE NEW MEETING LINK \nJoin us at : \nhttps://zoom.us/j/94240110991?pwd=ulLbsV92ck1nUmnt5B7T5ag2bhDJgf.1 \nMeeting ID: 942 4011 0991\nPasscode: 159769
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/backups/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/backups.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241113T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241113T120000
DTSTAMP:20241123T145244Z
CREATED:20241016T090546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241123T145244Z
UID:6683-1731493800-1731499200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Chemistry Through the Looking-Glass: the curious world of mirror-image molecules
DESCRIPTION:It was around 150 years ago that Lewis Carroll published ‘Alice Through the Looking Glass’\, his fantastical tale of a strange world where everything is reversed\, as if in a mirror. Back then\, the idea that such a world could actually exist – at least at the molecular level – was still in its infancy. Today\, stereochemistry – to give it its proper name – is not just a scientific curiosity\, but a vital consideration in the safety and effectiveness of modern medicines. That’s because carbon\, the element that all life on Earth depends upon\, has the unique ability to form pairs of compounds with identical chemical compositions\, but mirror-image 3D structures. In this entertaining talk\, Carol Barrett from Cardiff u3a will be our Alice\, looking first at symmetry and patterns in the natural world\, before focussing on the looking-glass world of carbon chemistry\, and finishing with its impact on pharmaceutical research. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Chemistry through the Looking-glass’ \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/chemistry-through-the-looking-glass-the-curious-world-of-mirror-image-molecules/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Tweedledum-Tweedledee-colour-tinted.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241028T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241028T163000
DTSTAMP:20240929T091726Z
CREATED:20240929T091726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240929T091726Z
UID:6364-1730127600-1730133000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Epigenetics and ‘Junk’ DNA
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Professor Nessa Carey  \n Visiting Professor Imperial College  \nEpigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve changes to the underlying DNA sequence itself. Environmental factors often drive these changes and involve chemical modifications\, For instance\, epigenetic mechanisms are crucial for cell differentiation—despite having identical DNA\, a neuron and a skin cell look and behave very differently due to epigenetic regulation.\nThe term “junk DNA” was historically used to describe the large portions of the genome that do not code for proteins\, which seemed to have no apparent function. However\, with the rise of more advanced genomic studies\, it became clear that non-coding regions play critical regulatory roles and are involved in epigenetic mechanisms.\nNessa Carey’s style is widely appreciated for its clarity\, accessibility\, and ability to make complex scientific concepts understandable and engaging to a broad audience; so come\, join us and enjoy.\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/epigenetics-and-junk-dna/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Epigenetic_mechanisms-16-9.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241023T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241023T113000
DTSTAMP:20241003T181536Z
CREATED:20241003T181536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241003T181536Z
UID:6473-1729677600-1729683000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:WATER: HOW WE USE AND ABUSE IT
DESCRIPTION:Water\, whether too much or too little around the globe is at the forefront of how the changing climate is affecting communities. How we use this precious resource is also impacted by the effects of weather to the extent of risking significant harm to our infrastructure systems. The talk by Dr Jane Sellwood will cover wastewater treatment\, drinking water treatment and the current national and global water issues and impact of the climate crisis.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/water-how-we-use-and-abuse-it/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241022T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241022T200000
DTSTAMP:20240925T110118Z
CREATED:20240925T092328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240925T110118Z
UID:6267-1729623600-1729627200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Books and Literature\, October 22 at 7pm (UK time)
DESCRIPTION:Philosophy in Modern Literature\nWe will discuss the influence of philosophy on the works we read\, stories we follow and genres we prefer. How have the influences changed over time? How does the author’s use of philosophy affect our understanding and enjoyment? What are the next steps we face?
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/books-and-literature-october-22-at-7pm-uk-time/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ORGANIZER;CN="Ray":MAILTO:ray.hardisty@btinternet.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241022T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241022T130000
DTSTAMP:20241015T115538Z
CREATED:20241014T204009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241015T115538Z
UID:6646-1729598400-1729602000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Talking Art :Tuesday 22nd October
DESCRIPTION:The next meeting will be \nTuesday\, 22nd October at noon. We have a guest speaker\, Zoe Parker\, from IGO Talking Art. Of the many talks Zoe has\, she has selected to tell us about a very humorous and loveable artist called Beryl Cook.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/talking-art-tuesday-22nd-october/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Beryl_Cook-1.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR