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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260416T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260416T113000
DTSTAMP:20260717T085244Z
CREATED:20260409T151138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T085244Z
UID:63519-1776335400-1776339000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Finding the Truth in the Fog of War
DESCRIPTION:For more than a month now\, the world has held its breath ever since the Middle East was plunged into another deadly conflict between its most hard-line of sworn enemies. And as the cost in lives continues to mount\, so has the fiery rhetoric\, proving the old adage that the first casualty of war is Truth. But when none of the key players – Trump\, Netanyahu\, nor the Iranians – can be trusted to give it to us straight\, how can we\, as mere onlookers\, navigate today’s multi-media minefield to get to the true facts behind the barrage of spin\, disinformation\, and bare-faced lies that make up the so-called ‘Fog of War’. And that’s our topic this month. \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/who-can-we-believe-in-the-fog-of-war/
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:20260414T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T120000
DTSTAMP:20260221T144933Z
CREATED:20260221T144933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260221T144933Z
UID:51964-1776162600-1776168000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Mineralogy in Art
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Doctor Chris Duffin\, Scientific Associate\, Natural History Museum\, London \nThis month Dr Chris Duffin will be focusing on the geological materials used in painting. Geological pigments have been used extensively from the earliest cave paintings to the mid-eighteenth century. From ochres used to provide light earth tones\, copper minerals used as the sources of green and blue pigments\, the intense blue of ultramarine from lapis lazuli through to gold and silver leaf. \nChris will look at some of the historical sources of the pigments\, the processing needed to make them functional and many examples of their uses. Hopefully your next visit to an art gallery will add a geological element to your view of the art. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/mineralogy-in-art/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/500px-SantaCruz-CuevaManos-P2210651b.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260408T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260408T120000
DTSTAMP:20260411T103510Z
CREATED:20260317T100726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260411T103510Z
UID:57784-1775644200-1775649600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
DESCRIPTION:Over the next decade\, AI is set to transform healthcare by introducing machines with human-like intelligence that operate with greater speed and cost-efficiency than traditional methods. This technological shift spans from wearable hardware\, such as AI-powered hearing-aids and spectacles\, to core functions like diagnosing medical conditions\, discovering new drugs\, and tailoring personalised treatment plans. Beyond patient care\, AI will streamline NHS administration and enhance public health screening initiatives\, supported by significant financial backing such as the government’s £10bn AI Investment Programme commitment through 2028/29. In this wide-ranging presentation\, Ian Hawker (East Suffolk u3a) will explore just some of these exciting opportunities. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare’\n(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link)
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/artificial-intelligence-in-healthcare/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/AI-Healthcare-image-for-website.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260331T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260331T163000
DTSTAMP:20260201T184157Z
CREATED:20260201T184157Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260201T184157Z
UID:46615-1774969200-1774974600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Jimi Hendrix Experience – a study of musical expression
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Professor Milton Mermikides \n University of Surrey  \nWhy does some music hit us straight in the gut? Why can a single guitar phrase feel joyful\, unsettling\, or transcendent? \nIn this engaging and thought-provoking talk\, Professor Milton Mermikides unpacks the hidden mechanics of musical expression\, using the revolutionary work of The Jimi Hendrix Experience as his guide. Blending musical analysis with insights from science and psychology\, he reveals how structure\, sound\, and performance combine to shape emotional impact. \nFrom composition and harmony to tone\, timing\, and improvisation\, the talk explores how Hendrix’s music communicates far beyond words. It also examines how subtle performance choices can transform meaning\, turning a familiar piece into a powerful emotional event. \nThis is a talk for anyone curious about music\, creativity\, and why Hendrix still sounds so alive\, urgent\, and emotionally charged decades later. \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/the-jimi-hendrix-experience-a-study-of-musical-expression/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/The-Jimi-Hendrix-experience-lecture-poster-16-by-9.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260325T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260325T233000
DTSTAMP:20260323T113416Z
CREATED:20260323T113416Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T113416Z
UID:59229-1774432800-1774481400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:WASTE AND CLIMATE CHANGE 10am-11.30am Wed 25 March
DESCRIPTION:Modern consumer society is currently trapped in a “take-make-waste” cycle\, with the average person in the UK generating 620kg of waste annually—a figure contributing to 5.5% of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. This crisis is driven by an economic model where it is often cheaper to replace items than to fix them\, leading to a projected 70% increase in global waste by 2050. To prevent this refuse from flooding landfills and the environment\, urgent regulation is needed to transition toward a circular economy. By prioritizing the repair\, reuse\, refurbishment\, and recycling of goods\, we can break the link between economic growth and environmental degradation.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/waste-and-climate-change-10am-11-30am-wed-25-march/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/earthorbit900.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T200000
DTSTAMP:20260322T194139Z
CREATED:20260322T194139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T194139Z
UID:58962-1774378800-1774382400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Discussion on the Poetry of Philip Larkin
DESCRIPTION:Just over a century after Philip Larkin passed away we will chat about what his poetry means to us today. We will start with his “A study of reading habits” and move on from there
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/discussion-on-the-poetry-of-philip-larkin/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Philip-Larkin-headstone.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260324T130000
DTSTAMP:20260323T083819Z
CREATED:20260224T120004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T083819Z
UID:55424-1774353600-1774357200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:History Month March 2026
DESCRIPTION:History month: Tuesday 24th March at noon\, we have a guest speaker from Newcastle u3a to tell us about\, ‘Interesting News’. \nThis is a compilation of talks our speaker has given regarding fascinating events or people in history. \nNot to be missed! \n \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/55424/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,History Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260319T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260319T113000
DTSTAMP:20260717T085117Z
CREATED:20260311T151110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T085117Z
UID:56481-1773916200-1773919800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Electoral Reform
DESCRIPTION:With the Middle East in flames and oil prices soaring\, a significant piece of legislation – the ‘Representation of the People’ Bill – attracted little attention when it was debated in parliament earlier this month. Among several proposed reforms\, the most far-reaching would be the extension of voting rights to 16/17-year-olds. You may agree or disagree with that\, but much of the commentary afterwards focussed on what wasn’t in the Bill – our electoral system itself. As Britain’s political landscape continues to fragment\, our long-standing ‘first-past-the-post’ system is increasingly delivering outcomes that are ever-further removed from the true balance of public opinion in the country today. So\, at this month’s meeting\, we’ll be discussing the pros and cons of replacing FPTP with a more proportional voting system. For more information\, take a look at these recent articles: ‘After Gorton & Denton: The case for PR’ and ‘Restoring democracy: Labour’s challenge’ \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/electoral-reform/
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:20260317T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260317T170000
DTSTAMP:20260226T162351Z
CREATED:20260226T162351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T162351Z
UID:53139-1773759600-1773766800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Email delivery
DESCRIPTION:17th March @ 3:00pm – 5:00pm \nThis month we’ll look at email delivery … what used to be pretty simple\, in the age of SPAM its gotten to be more complex.  The background to the talk is the email configuration of u3acommunities.org and u3a.social sites. \nAs always\, plenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/. \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/email-delivery/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/emaildelivery.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260311T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260311T120000
DTSTAMP:20260215T122127Z
CREATED:20260215T122127Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T122127Z
UID:50542-1773225000-1773230400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Man Who Caught a Million Criminals: The Invention of DNA Fingerprinting
DESCRIPTION:This month\, we welcome guest speaker Dr Ian Goodall\, to talk to us about the invention of DNA fingerprinting\, and the British scientist who pioneered the technique\, back in the 1980’s. It was first used to solve a notorious double murder/rape case in Leicestershire\, where the culprit’s devious attempts to avoid detection were thwarted by the new technology\, and he’s still in jail today. Ian will also take a look at other high-profile investigations where DNA fingerprinting played a vital part\, such as the OJ Simpson trial\, the fate of Russia’s last royal family\, and – closer to home – the celebrated ‘King in the car-park’ mystery. It should be fascinating\, so why not join us! \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-man-who-caught-a-million-criminals-the-invention-of-dna-fingerprinting/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/DNA-fingerprinting-image-for-website.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260310T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260310T120000
DTSTAMP:20260221T143020Z
CREATED:20260221T143020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260221T143020Z
UID:51955-1773138600-1773144000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Medicine and Geology - An Exploration
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Doctor Albert Benghiat \nJoin us on Tuesday 10 March when Dr Albert Benghiat will be speaking about how medical practitioners have contributed to the science of geology historically and the similarities between the practice of medicine and geology. \nImage Healthcare medicine scientist doctor looking at chemical sample expertise by DC Studio from Freepik \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/medicine-and-geology-an-exploration/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/8515.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T113000
DTSTAMP:20260224T205655Z
CREATED:20260224T205655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T205655Z
UID:52746-1772013600-1772019000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Regenerative Agriculture and Climate Change
DESCRIPTION:Regenerative agriculture reduces carbon emissions making the soil more resistant to climate change. However\, the takeup is slow due to costs and the need to learn new farming practices.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/regenerative-agriculture-and-climate-change/
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:20260225T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T113000
DTSTAMP:20260222T210747Z
CREATED:20260222T210747Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T210747Z
UID:52279-1772013600-1772019000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Regenerative Agriculture 10.00-11.30am Wed 25 Feb
DESCRIPTION:Regenerative agriculture reduces carbon emissions making the soil more resistant to climate change. However\, the takeup is slow due to costs and the need to learn new farming practices.
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/regenerative-agriculture-10-00-11-30am-wed-25-feb/
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:20260224T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260224T200000
DTSTAMP:20260222T191255Z
CREATED:20260222T191255Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T191255Z
UID:52240-1771959600-1771963200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Books and Literature Unusual Book Titles of 2025
DESCRIPTION:It’s your chance to let your hair down by talking about unusual book titles! \nSome of the past have included: \nThe Mushroom At The End Of The World \nThe Woman Who Gave Birth To Rabbits \nand \nThere Once Lived A Girl Who Seduced Her Sister’s Husband. And He Hanged Himself. Love Stories. \nSo what’s yours? \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/books-and-literature-unusual-book-titles-of-2025/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Books-of-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260224T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260224T130000
DTSTAMP:20260223T083954Z
CREATED:20260221T231919Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T083954Z
UID:52047-1771934400-1771938000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Art History month
DESCRIPTION:On Tuesday 24th February\, we have ‘Unwinding the threads of history: the Bayeux Tapestry and Its Hidden Messages’ led by myself \nStarts at 12 noon \nHope to see you all \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/art-history-month/
CATEGORIES:Art History Meeting,Frontpage
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260223T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260223T163000
DTSTAMP:20260127T165224Z
CREATED:20260127T165224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T165224Z
UID:45192-1771858800-1771864200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:From Brains to Simulations: Understanding Cognition and Disease Through Models
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Dr Viktor Jirsa \n Directeur of the Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes\, Chief Scientific Officer of EBRAINS\, and leader of The Virtual Brain initiative  \nIn this talk\, Dr Jirsa will explore how scientists are now using computer models to simulate the human brain — helping us better understand how we think\, how the brain changes as we age\, and what happens when things go wrong. \nDrawing on pioneering research from across Europe\, he will show how virtual brain models can reveal patterns of brain activity\, offer new insights into conditions such as epilepsy and mental illness\, and open the door to more personalised approaches to brain health. Along the way\, the talk will touch on one of science’s great questions: how the physical brain gives rise to the mind. \nThis accessible and engaging lecture is ideal for anyone curious about the brain\, the future of medicine\, and how modern science is helping us understand ourselves. \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/from-brains-to-simulations-understanding-cognition-and-disease-through-models/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/From-Brains-to-Simulations.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260219T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260219T113000
DTSTAMP:20260611T132808Z
CREATED:20260211T150852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T132808Z
UID:49494-1771497000-1771500600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Future of the BBC
DESCRIPTION:In 2027\, the BBC will reach a historic milestone\, having been established by Royal Charter exactly a hundred years ago. Under the terms of that Charter\, its remit must be formally renewed by the Government every ten years\, including a statutory period of public consultation. That process began in November\, and will continue throughout 2026\, but the consultation period ends next month\, hence the timing of this meeting. Among the issues up for discussion are the BBC’s mission in a broadcasting environment which is constantly evolving\, the services it provides\, its integration of new and emerging technologies\, its governance and accountability\, its workplace culture\, and last – but by no means least – how the BBC should be funded\, going forward. Surveys repeatedly show that our demographic (the over-65’s) are the most loyal consumers of the BBC’s output\, so we should take the opportunity to have our say. For more information\, take a look at this helpful article from the BBC website: BBC Charter review (Katie Razzall\, 16/12/25) \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/the-future-of-the-bbc/
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:20260217T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260217T170000
DTSTAMP:20260129T101017Z
CREATED:20260127T154100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T101017Z
UID:45169-1771340400-1771347600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Open Source Software
DESCRIPTION:17th February @ 3:00pm – 5:00pm \nThis month we look at the world of Open Source Software.  Included will be what is the source code\, major projects\, pros & cons and licenses.  We’ll also touch on open source AI. \nAs always\, plenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/. \n  \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/open-source-software/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/opensource.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260211T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260211T120000
DTSTAMP:20260212T141842Z
CREATED:20260116T145300Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260212T141842Z
UID:42158-1770805800-1770811200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Mysteries of Memory
DESCRIPTION:Memory: What and where is it\, how does it work\, what can we do to improve it\, and why is it sometimes so tantalisingly elusive? In this intriguing\, interactive presentation\, Sue Foy (Chester u3a) will reveal the answers. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Mysteries of Memory’\n(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link) \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/mysteries-of-memory/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Mysteries-of-Memory-2-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260210T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260210T120000
DTSTAMP:20260119T113224Z
CREATED:20260119T113224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T113224Z
UID:42852-1770719400-1770724800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:The Castle Bank Biota: a Middle Ordovician Burgess Shale-type fauna from Wales
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Doctor Joe Botting \nThis month Dr Joe Botting will be talking about the Castle Bank Biota\, this dates back to the middle Ordovician and hosts Burgess-shale type fauna. \nThe site was discovered by Dr Botting and Dr Lucy Muir near Llandrindod Wells during the Covid-19 lockdown. The nature of the rocks has preserved the soft bodied creatures in exquisite detail and Joe and Lucy are working to reconstruct the development of the ecosystem in as much detail as possible. \nYou can see some of the creatures discovered by Joe in this article on the Museum of Wales’ website. Joe also has a YouTube channel\, Life through time\, with some videos you may find interesting. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-castle-bank-biota/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/960px-Burgess_Shale_Fossils.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260128T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260128T113000
DTSTAMP:20260124T202941Z
CREATED:20260124T202941Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260124T202941Z
UID:44429-1769594400-1769599800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:WATER SUPPLY AND CLIMATE CHANGE
DESCRIPTION:Global water consumption has risen significantly due to population growth and industrial expansion. Currently\, 75% of the global population resides in countries classified as water-insecure\, and 50% of the world’s population experiences severe water scarcity for at least one month per year. Furthermore\, pollution frequently renders water unsafe for consumption. Climate change is exacerbating water stress through desertification and shifting weather patterns. Parts of the UK are projected to face water shortages by 2050. \nWhat actions are being taken to safeguard water supply against climate change? \nIan Hawker \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/water-supply-and-climate-change/
CATEGORIES:Climate Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Earth-edited.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260127T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260127T200000
DTSTAMP:20260125T171209Z
CREATED:20260125T171209Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T171209Z
UID:44676-1769540400-1769544000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Books and Literature January Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Discussion. \nWinnie the Pooh was 100 on Christmas Eve. \nAre his Hundred Acre Wood adventures simply a pleasure of the past? \nOr do children still enjoy Pooh today? \nAs grans and grandads should we keeping the bear as family reading?
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/books-and-literature-january-meeting/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Winnie-the-Pooh-and-frineds.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260127T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260127T130000
DTSTAMP:20260127T100342Z
CREATED:20260127T095526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T100342Z
UID:45099-1769515200-1769518800@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:History Group Month January 27th Title ‘Timekeeping’
DESCRIPTION:Another exciting presentation from one of our members. The title to this meeting will be ‘Timekeeping’. Come along and join in\, I am sure you’ll have the time!! \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/history-group-month-january-27th-title-timekeeping/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,History Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260126T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260126T163000
DTSTAMP:20251202T131333Z
CREATED:20251202T124029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251202T131333Z
UID:27917-1769439600-1769445000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Mind-blowing Advances in Materials Science
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Professor Mark Miodownik\n University College London  \nMark Miodownik is a pioneering materials scientist fascinated by how the stuff of our world—metals\, ceramics\, polymers\, biomaterials—shapes human experience. His work celebrates the hidden stories inside everyday objects and explores how emerging materials can transform sustainability\, medicine\, and technology. Today’s mind-blowing advances in materials science—from self-healing structures to programmable matter and bio-inspired materials—reflect the curiosity and creativity Miodownik champions\, revealing a future where smarter\, greener\, and more responsive materials redefine what’s possible. \nMark Miodownik’s books vividly reflect his deep passion for materials and their hidden magic. Stuff Matters—a bestselling\, award-winning exploration of everyday materials—and Liquid: The Delightful and Dangerous Substances That Flow Through Our Lives both reveal his ability to turn complex science into gripping\, human-centred stories.  \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/mind-blowing-advances-in-materials-science/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Leading-edge Research Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/material-scale.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260120T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260120T170000
DTSTAMP:20260106T083316Z
CREATED:20251211T085952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T083316Z
UID:30533-1768921200-1768928400@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:How to use https://u3a.social
DESCRIPTION:20th January @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm \nSocial media is now a big part of how we stay connected. While some large platforms\, such as Facebook\, have concerns around privacy and data use\, the Fediverse offers a more open\, secure\, and community-focused alternative.  Fediverse sites are free of ads\, tracking\, algorithms\, big business and billionaires … they are community sites – owned and managed by the community for the community. \nWe’re pleased to say this is now being introduced across the U3A network\, and we hope many members will join us and take part. \nSo this month we look at how to use the newly created social media Fediverse site https://u3a.social. \nWe start with a summary of past talks on the Fediverse and real time bidding (how targeted ads work) before walking through creating and using an account.  Also covered is how to find groups\, friends and news sources to follow (such as users on other Fediverse sites\, Bluesky and RSS).  Of course we’ll have a demo. \nAs always\, plenty of time is reserved for discussions. \nJoining details will be emailed to subscribers.  If you aren’t a member\, it’s free to join here https://u3acommunities.org/subscribe-to-computing-forum/. \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/how-to-use-https-u3a-social/
CATEGORIES:Computing Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-11-at-08.36.18-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260115T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260115T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T163857Z
CREATED:20260108T144052Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T163857Z
UID:39627-1768473000-1768476600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Donald Trump's Unforgettable First Year
DESCRIPTION:Barely a year has passed since his inauguration\, yet even the most fanciful of apocalyptic predictions about how Trump’s second term as US President would unfold\, have fallen way short of the jaw-dropping reality. So\, for our first meeting of 2026\, we’ll be taking a look back at the extraordinary events of the last twelve months\, and ahead to what may be coming next\, both for Americans at home\, and for the rest of us around the world. But whatever happens\, one thing is certain – the ‘white-knuckle ride’ has only just begun – so why not join us for an hour of nervous crystal-gazing! \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/donald-trumps-unforgettable-first-year/
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:20260114T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260114T120000
DTSTAMP:20260121T103155Z
CREATED:20251222T112929Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T103155Z
UID:35358-1768386600-1768392000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Was there a Big Bang?
DESCRIPTION:In 1929\, Edwin Hubble established a correlation between galactic redshift and distance. For nearly a century\, the prevailing scientific consensus has attributed this redshift to cosmic expansion\, forming the foundation of the Big Bang theory. However\, recent data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has introduced observations that challenge standard cosmological models. In this presentation\, David Youll (Basingstoke u3a) reviews the historical dominance of the Big Bang theory\, examines the anomalies identified by the JWST\, and explores whether a “Tired Light” model offers a more accurate framework for these new findings. \nTo view the recording\, click here… ‘Was there a Big Bang?’\n(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link) \nTo contact us about the Science & Technology group\, click here… Get in touch
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/was-there-a-big-bang/
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Science and Technology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Davids-cosmology-talk-image-for-website-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260113T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260113T120000
DTSTAMP:20260108T202632Z
CREATED:20260108T202632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260108T202632Z
UID:39892-1768300200-1768305600@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:From Fuming Volcanic Vents to Extinction Events
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Professor Tamsin Mather\, Professor of Earth Sciences\, University College Oxford  \nThis month Professor Tamsin Mather will be investigating how volcanic eruptions can alter Earth’s atmosphere and climate\, sometimes with devastating consequences for life. \nDrawing on her expertise in volcanic gases and atmospheric chemistry\, she links present-day volcanic emissions to episodes of extreme environmental change in the past. Her talk explores how massive eruptions have triggered global cooling or warming\, disrupted ecosystems and contributed to major extinction events. \nSubscribe to Geology
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/from-fuming-volcanic-vents-to-extinction-events/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Frontpage,Geology Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/ChatGPT-Image-Jan-8-2026-06_39_060D-AM.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251224T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251224T130000
DTSTAMP:20251211T183926Z
CREATED:20251017T205812Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T183926Z
UID:14807-1766577600-1766581200@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:History Month
DESCRIPTION:The History group will not be meeting on December 24th. The next meeting is January 27th 12-1.00. A member will be giving us a fascinating talk about ‘The History of Timekeeping’
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/history-month/
CATEGORIES:History Meeting
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251223T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251223T200000
DTSTAMP:20251221T163836Z
CREATED:20251221T163836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T163836Z
UID:35202-1766516400-1766520000@u3acommunities.org
SUMMARY:Our favourite festive film from a book
DESCRIPTION:Come along armed with your favourite Christmas viewing based on a book. \nAnd the reasons why it is your top choice. \nThere are hundreds to choose from. \nBut if you select A Christmas Carol we will want to know which version!
URL:https://u3acommunities.org/event/our-favourite-festive-film-from-a-book/
CATEGORIES:Books and Literature Meeting,Frontpage
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://u3acommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Festive-films-from-Books-2025-v2.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR