#u3asocial — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #u3asocial, aggregated by home.social.
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Current Affairs discussion group: Open Forum
🗓️ Start: Thu 21 May 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 21 May 2026 11:30 amWith so much going on at the moment, both domestically and around the world, it’s time once again to open the floor to all of you – our members – to share your thoughts on any topic you wish. Whether it’s making the headlines right now, or it’s been squeezed out by everything else, why not come along and give it an airing!
If 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/current-affairs-discussion-group-open-forum-2/
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Current Affairs discussion group: Open Forum
🗓️ Start: Thu 21 May 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 21 May 2026 11:30 amWith so much going on at the moment, both domestically and around the world, it’s time once again to open the floor to all of you – our members – to share your thoughts on any topic you wish. Whether it’s making the headlines right now, or it’s been squeezed out by everything else, why not come along and give it an airing!
If 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/current-affairs-discussion-group-open-forum-2/
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Agentic Artificial Intelligence
🗓️ Start: Tue 19 May 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 19 May 2026 5:00 pm19th May @ 3:00pm – 5:00pm
This month we’ll look at agentic artificial intelligence … large language models are now no-longer contrained to just “chat”, they can now interface to the outside world to perform tasks. We’ll take a look at a couple of tools (opencode and openclaw), how they work and risks involved.
As always, plenty of time is reserved for discussions.
Joining 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/.
https://u3acommunities.org/event/agenic-artificial-intelligence/
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Agentic Artificial Intelligence
🗓️ Start: Tue 19 May 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 19 May 2026 5:00 pm19th May @ 3:00pm – 5:00pm
This month we’ll look at agentic artificial intelligence … large language models are now no-longer contrained to just “chat”, they can now interface to the outside world to perform tasks. We’ll take a look at a couple of tools (opencode and openclaw), how they work and risks involved.
As always, plenty of time is reserved for discussions.
Joining 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/.
https://u3acommunities.org/event/agenic-artificial-intelligence/
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Daniel Defoe… The ignored classical author
🗓️ Start: Tue 28 Apr 2026 7:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 28 Apr 2026 8:00 pmSadly, the man who wrote tales like Robinson Crusoe and Moll Flanders is an ignored author in the current rush to reread the Classics. Why? Is he marred by some of his other more erotic and non-mainstream titles? Let’s discuss
https://u3acommunities.org/event/daniel-defoe-the-ignored-classical-author/
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Daniel Defoe… The ignored classical author
🗓️ Start: Tue 28 Apr 2026 7:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 28 Apr 2026 8:00 pmSadly, the man who wrote tales like Robinson Crusoe and Moll Flanders is an ignored author in the current rush to reread the Classics. Why? Is he marred by some of his other more erotic and non-mainstream titles? Let’s discuss
https://u3acommunities.org/event/daniel-defoe-the-ignored-classical-author/
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Daniel Defoe… The ignored classical author
🗓️ Start: Tue 28 Apr 2026 7:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 28 Apr 2026 8:00 pmSadly, the man who wrote tales like Robinson Crusoe and Moll Flanders is an ignored author in the current rush to reread the Classics. Why? Is he marred by some of his other more erotic and non-mainstream titles? Let’s discuss
https://u3acommunities.org/event/daniel-defoe-the-ignored-classical-author/
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Daniel Defoe… The ignored classical author
🗓️ Start: Tue 28 Apr 2026 7:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 28 Apr 2026 8:00 pmSadly, the man who wrote tales like Robinson Crusoe and Moll Flanders is an ignored author in the current rush to reread the Classics. Why? Is he marred by some of his other more erotic and non-mainstream titles? Let’s discuss
https://u3acommunities.org/event/daniel-defoe-the-ignored-classical-author/
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Art History
🗓️ Start: Sun 26 Apr 2026 8:00 am
⏳ End: Sun 26 Apr 2026 5:00 pmArt History: April 28th at NOON-1pm
Guest speaker, Zoe who has a talk about the life and works of David Shepherd and Ronnie Wood
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Art History
🗓️ Start: Sun 26 Apr 2026 8:00 am
⏳ End: Sun 26 Apr 2026 5:00 pmArt History: April 28th at NOON-1pm
Guest speaker, Zoe who has a talk about the life and works of David Shepherd and Ronnie Wood
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Rosalind Franklin: The Triumph and the Tragedy
🗓️ Start: Wed 13 May 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Wed 13 May 2026 12:00 pmIn 1953, the scientific world was abuzz with the discovery of the structure of DNA by James Watson & Francis Crick, but back then, few were aware that it was only made possible by the painstaking work of another, equally brilliant scientist who, as a woman in what was still largely a man’s world, had long struggled to be taken seriously. She would go on to make ground-breaking discoveries in the study of viruses, until, in 1958, she was tragically cut down in her prime by cancer. She was just 37. Had she lived, who knows what else she might have accomplished, but her moving story – told here by Barry Zussman (Torridge u3a) – would become her greatest legacy, and an inspiration for women in science everywhere.
To view the recording, click here… ‘Rosalind Franklin: The Triumph & The Tragedy’
(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link)To contact us about the Science & Technology group, click here… Get in touch
https://u3acommunities.org/event/rosalind-franklin-the-triumph-and-the-tragedy/
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Rosalind Franklin: The Triumph and the Tragedy
🗓️ Start: Wed 13 May 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Wed 13 May 2026 12:00 pmIn 1953, the scientific world was abuzz with the discovery of the structure of DNA by James Watson & Francis Crick, but back then, few were aware that it was only made possible by the painstaking work of another, equally brilliant scientist who, as a woman in what was still largely a man’s world, had long struggled to be taken seriously. She would go on to make ground-breaking discoveries in the study of viruses, until, in 1958, she was tragically cut down in her prime by cancer. She was just 37. Had she lived, who knows what else she might have accomplished, but her moving story – told here by Barry Zussman (Torridge u3a) – would become her greatest legacy, and an inspiration for women in science everywhere.
To view the recording, click here… ‘Rosalind Franklin: The Triumph & The Tragedy’
(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link)To contact us about the Science & Technology group, click here… Get in touch
https://u3acommunities.org/event/rosalind-franklin-the-triumph-and-the-tragedy/
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April 2026 is Art History Month!
🗓️ Start: Tue 28 Apr 2026 12:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 28 Apr 2026 1:00 pmOn Tuesday 28th April at noon, we welcome a guest speaker, Zoe, who will be talking about ‘The Art of Ronnie Wood’ and The Art of David Shepherd’. Two great but often overlooked artists.
http://Join Zoom Meeting https:
//us02web.zoom.us/j/84276942526?pwd=SkpHMGl0bHE0OENVVmZWWnk4T0pmZz09
We hope you can all come along.
Catherine
https://u3acommunities.org/event/april-2026-is-art-history-month/
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April 2026 is Art History Month!
🗓️ Start: Tue 28 Apr 2026 12:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 28 Apr 2026 1:00 pmOn Tuesday 28th April at noon, we welcome a guest speaker, Zoe, who will be talking about ‘The Art of Ronnie Wood’ and The Art of David Shepherd’. Two great but often overlooked artists.
http://Join Zoom Meeting https:
//us02web.zoom.us/j/84276942526?pwd=SkpHMGl0bHE0OENVVmZWWnk4T0pmZz09
We hope you can all come along.
Catherine
https://u3acommunities.org/event/april-2026-is-art-history-month/
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Finding the Truth in the Fog of War
🗓️ Start: Thu 16 Apr 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 16 Apr 2026 11:30 amFor 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.
If 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/who-can-we-believe-in-the-fog-of-war/
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Finding the Truth in the Fog of War
🗓️ Start: Thu 16 Apr 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 16 Apr 2026 11:30 amFor 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.
If 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/who-can-we-believe-in-the-fog-of-war/
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Space Debris and new approaches to rectification
🗓️ Start: Wed 29 Apr 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Wed 29 Apr 2026 4:30 pmSpeaker: Ray Fielding
Head of Sustainability and ISAM UK Space AgencyEarth’s orbits are becoming the world’s most valuable—and most vulnerable—commons. Every bolt, paint fleck, and abandoned satellite hurtling around our planet threatens the systems we rely on daily: GPS, climate monitoring, telecommunications, and future exploration. With over 36,000 trackable objects and millions more too small to detect, the challenge is accelerating faster than we can clean it up.
Join us as Ray Fielding reveals how the UK Space Agency is pioneering new strategies to tackle this orbital crisis. From active debris removal to in‑orbit servicing and manufacturing (ISAM), Ray will unpack the technologies reshaping how we build, repair, and protect our space infrastructure. Discover how global collaboration, engineering innovation, and sustainability thinking are converging to safeguard humanity’s access to space.
If 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/
https://u3acommunities.org/event/space-debris-and-new-approaches-to-rectification/
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Space Debris and new approaches to rectification
🗓️ Start: Wed 29 Apr 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Wed 29 Apr 2026 4:30 pmSpeaker: Ray Fielding
Head of Sustainability and ISAM UK Space AgencyEarth’s orbits are becoming the world’s most valuable—and most vulnerable—commons. Every bolt, paint fleck, and abandoned satellite hurtling around our planet threatens the systems we rely on daily: GPS, climate monitoring, telecommunications, and future exploration. With over 36,000 trackable objects and millions more too small to detect, the challenge is accelerating faster than we can clean it up.
Join us as Ray Fielding reveals how the UK Space Agency is pioneering new strategies to tackle this orbital crisis. From active debris removal to in‑orbit servicing and manufacturing (ISAM), Ray will unpack the technologies reshaping how we build, repair, and protect our space infrastructure. Discover how global collaboration, engineering innovation, and sustainability thinking are converging to safeguard humanity’s access to space.
If 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/
https://u3acommunities.org/event/space-debris-and-new-approaches-to-rectification/
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WASTE AND CLIMATE CHANGE 10am-11.30am Wed 25 March
🗓️ Start: Wed 25 Mar 2026 10:00 am
⏳ End: Wed 25 Mar 2026 11:30 pmModern 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.
https://u3acommunities.org/event/waste-and-climate-change-10am-11-30am-wed-25-march/
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Discussion on the Poetry of Philip Larkin
🗓️ Start: Tue 24 Mar 2026 7:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 24 Mar 2026 8:00 pmJust 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/discussion-on-the-poetry-of-philip-larkin/
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Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
🗓️ Start: Wed 8 Apr 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Wed 8 Apr 2026 12:00 pmOver 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.
To view the recording, click here… ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare’
(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link)https://u3acommunities.org/event/artificial-intelligence-in-healthcare/
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Electoral Reform
🗓️ Start: Thu 19 Mar 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 19 Mar 2026 11:30 amWith 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’
If 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
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Electoral Reform
🗓️ Start: Thu 19 Mar 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 19 Mar 2026 11:30 amWith 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’
If 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
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History Month March 2026
🗓️ Start: Tue 24 Mar 2026 12:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 24 Mar 2026 1:00 pmHistory month: Tuesday 24th March at noon, we have a guest speaker from Newcastle u3a to tell us about, ‘Interesting News’.
This is a compilation of talks our speaker has given regarding fascinating events or people in history.
Not to be missed!
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Email delivery
🗓️ Start: Tue 17 Mar 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 17 Mar 2026 5:00 pm17th March @ 3:00pm – 5:00pm
This 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.
As always, plenty of time is reserved for discussions.
Joining 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/.
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Regenerative Agriculture and Climate Change
🗓️ Start: Wed 25 Feb 2026 10:00 am
⏳ End: Wed 25 Feb 2026 11:30 amRegenerative 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.
https://u3acommunities.org/event/regenerative-agriculture-and-climate-change/
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Fun & games with email hosting
https://u3a.social/display/c66bfb1b-1869-9db0-30c7-664075044150
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Regenerative Agriculture 10.00-11.30am Wed 25 Feb
🗓️ Start: Wed 25 Feb 2026 10:00 am
⏳ End: Wed 25 Feb 2026 11:30 amRegenerative 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.
https://u3acommunities.org/event/regenerative-agriculture-10-00-11-30am-wed-25-feb/
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Books and Literature Unusual Book Titles of 2025
🗓️ Start: Tue 24 Feb 2026 7:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 24 Feb 2026 8:00 pmIt’s your chance to let your hair down by talking about unusual book titles!
Some of the past have included:
The Mushroom At The End Of The World
The Woman Who Gave Birth To Rabbits
and
There Once Lived A Girl Who Seduced Her Sister’s Husband. And He Hanged Himself. Love Stories.
So what’s yours?
https://u3acommunities.org/event/books-and-literature-unusual-book-titles-of-2025/
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Art History month
🗓️ Start: Tue 24 Feb 2026 12:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 24 Feb 2026 1:00 pmOn Tuesday 24th February, we have ‘Unwinding the threads of history: the Bayeux Tapestry and Its Hidden Messages’ led by myself
Starts at 12 noon
Hope to see you all
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Mineralogy in Art
🗓️ Start: Tue 14 Apr 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Tue 14 Apr 2026 12:00 pm
📍 Location: ZoomSpeaker: Doctor Chris Duffin, Scientific Associate, Natural History Museum, London
This 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.
Chris 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.
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Medicine and Geology – An Exploration
🗓️ Start: Tue 10 Mar 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Tue 10 Mar 2026 12:00 pm
📍 Location: ZoomSpeaker: Doctor Albert Benghiat
Join 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.
Image Healthcare medicine scientist doctor looking at chemical sample expertise by DC Studio from Freepik
https://u3acommunities.org/event/medicine-and-geology-an-exploration/
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The Man Who Caught a Million Criminals: The Invention of DNA Fingerprinting
🗓️ Start: Wed 11 Mar 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Wed 11 Mar 2026 12:00 pmThis 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!
To contact us about the Science & Technology group, click here… Get in touch
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The Future of the BBC
🗓️ Start: Thu 19 Feb 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 19 Feb 2026 11:30 amIn 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)
If 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
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The Future of the BBC
🗓️ Start: Thu 19 Feb 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 19 Feb 2026 11:30 amIn 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)
If 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
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The Jimi Hendrix Experience – a study of musical expression
🗓️ Start: Tue 31 Mar 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 31 Mar 2026 4:30 pmSpeaker: Professor Milton Mermikides
University of SurreyWhy does some music hit us straight in the gut? Why can a single guitar phrase feel joyful, unsettling, or transcendent?
In 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.
From 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.
This is a talk for anyone curious about music, creativity, and why Hendrix still sounds so alive, urgent, and emotionally charged decades later.
If 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/
https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-jimi-hendrix-experience-a-study-of-musical-expression/
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The Jimi Hendrix Experience – a study of musical expression
🗓️ Start: Tue 31 Mar 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 31 Mar 2026 4:30 pmSpeaker: Professor Milton Mermikides
University of SurreyWhy does some music hit us straight in the gut? Why can a single guitar phrase feel joyful, unsettling, or transcendent?
In 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.
From 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.
This is a talk for anyone curious about music, creativity, and why Hendrix still sounds so alive, urgent, and emotionally charged decades later.
If 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/
https://u3acommunities.org/event/the-jimi-hendrix-experience-a-study-of-musical-expression/
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From Brains to Simulations: Understanding Cognition and Disease Through Models
🗓️ Start: Mon 23 Feb 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Mon 23 Feb 2026 4:30 pmSpeaker: Dr Viktor Jirsa
Directeur of the Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Chief Scientific Officer of EBRAINS, and leader of The Virtual Brain initiativeIn 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.
Drawing 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.
This 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.
If 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/
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From Brains to Simulations: Understanding Cognition and Disease Through Models
🗓️ Start: Mon 23 Feb 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Mon 23 Feb 2026 4:30 pmSpeaker: Dr Viktor Jirsa
Directeur of the Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Chief Scientific Officer of EBRAINS, and leader of The Virtual Brain initiativeIn 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.
Drawing 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.
This 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.
If 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/
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Open Source Software
🗓️ Start: Tue 17 Feb 2026 3:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 17 Feb 2026 5:00 pm17th February @ 3:00pm – 5:00pm
This 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.
As always, plenty of time is reserved for discussions.
Joining 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/.
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History Group Month January 27th Title ‘Timekeeping’
🗓️ Start: Tue 27 Jan 2026 12:00 pm
⏳ End: Tue 27 Jan 2026 1:00 pmAnother 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!!
https://u3acommunities.org/event/history-group-month-january-27th-title-timekeeping/
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WATER SUPPLY AND CLIMATE CHANGE
🗓️ Start: Wed 28 Jan 2026 10:00 am
⏳ End: Wed 28 Jan 2026 11:30 amGlobal 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.
What actions are being taken to safeguard water supply against climate change?
Ian Hawker
https://u3acommunities.org/event/water-supply-and-climate-change/
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Mysteries of Memory
🗓️ Start: Wed 11 Feb 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Wed 11 Feb 2026 12:00 pmMemory: 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.
To view the recording, click here… ‘Mysteries of Memory’
(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link)To contact us about the Science & Technology group, click here… Get in touch
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Donald Trump’s Unforgettable First Year
🗓️ Start: Thu 15 Jan 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 15 Jan 2026 11:30 amBarely 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!
If 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/donald-trumps-unforgettable-first-year/
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Donald Trump’s Unforgettable First Year
🗓️ Start: Thu 15 Jan 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 15 Jan 2026 11:30 amBarely 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!
If 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/donald-trumps-unforgettable-first-year/
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Was there a Big Bang?
🗓️ Start: Wed 14 Jan 2026 10:30 am
⏳ End: Wed 14 Jan 2026 12:00 pmIn 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.
To view the recording, click here… ‘Was there a Big Bang?’
(recordings are for personal/private use only – please do not share this link)To contact us about the Science & Technology group, click here… Get in touch
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Current Affairs discussion group: Open Forum
🗓️ Start: Thu 20 Nov 2025 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 20 Nov 2025 11:30 amFor our final meeting of the year, I’m once again opening the floor to all of you – our members – to share your thoughts on anything that’s been making the headlines recently. From the increasingly fractious debate over immigration policy to the prison releases debacle, the latest round of doctors’ strikes to the crisis at the BBC, not to mention all the speculation about the upcoming budget – and the PM’s leadership – there’s plenty to choose from, so why not come along and have your say!
If 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/current-affairs-discussion-group-open-forum/
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Current Affairs discussion group: Open Forum
🗓️ Start: Thu 20 Nov 2025 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 20 Nov 2025 11:30 amFor our final meeting of the year, I’m once again opening the floor to all of you – our members – to share your thoughts on anything that’s been making the headlines recently. From the increasingly fractious debate over immigration policy to the prison releases debacle, the latest round of doctors’ strikes to the crisis at the BBC, not to mention all the speculation about the upcoming budget – and the PM’s leadership – there’s plenty to choose from, so why not come along and have your say!
If 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
https://u3acommunities.org/event/current-affairs-discussion-group-open-forum/
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The Demographic Time-bomb
🗓️ Start: Thu 16 Oct 2025 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 16 Oct 2025 11:30 amIn common with many other developed countries, the UK’s birth-rate has been falling for some time, and now stands at around 1.5 children per woman, far below the so-called ‘replacement’ rate of 2.1 needed to maintain a stable population profile. If this decline is not turned around soon, there will eventually be too few working-age tax-payers to fund the ever-growing number of older people requiring costly medical and social care (let alone the workforce to provide this care). Several potential solutions have been suggested, both fiscal and societal, but most of them are either expensive, controversial, or both. So, at this month’s meeting, we’ll look at the various options, and – who knows – maybe we’ll even come up with some novel ideas of our own for the Chancellor to consider as she prepares her upcoming Budget!
If 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
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The Demographic Time-bomb
🗓️ Start: Thu 16 Oct 2025 10:30 am
⏳ End: Thu 16 Oct 2025 11:30 amIn common with many other developed countries, the UK’s birth-rate has been falling for some time, and now stands at around 1.5 children per woman, far below the so-called ‘replacement’ rate of 2.1 needed to maintain a stable population profile. If this decline is not turned around soon, there will eventually be too few working-age tax-payers to fund the ever-growing number of older people requiring costly medical and social care (let alone the workforce to provide this care). Several potential solutions have been suggested, both fiscal and societal, but most of them are either expensive, controversial, or both. So, at this month’s meeting, we’ll look at the various options, and – who knows – maybe we’ll even come up with some novel ideas of our own for the Chancellor to consider as she prepares her upcoming Budget!
If 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