January Extra
Thought I’d cram in an extra ‘mini’ newsletter.
First a reminder about the next Speaker meeting on Wednesday, February 7.
We can look forward to a musical interlude thanks to the talents of pianist Andrew Wilde.
Andrew, a pianist working with the North West Music Trust, will be bringing a keyboard and will play and talk about “evergreen” classical favourites by Chopin, Beethoven and other classics.
He studied with Ryszard Bakst at Chetham’s School of Music, Manchester and graduated with distinction from the Royal Northern College of Music. He has taken top prizes at many international piano competitions around the world and was described by Daniel Barenboim as a major musical and pianistic talent.
There will be time for a Q & A session at the end. So come an joins us at Withnell Fold Sports & Social Club, at 10-30am – but get there earlier for a cuppa and biscuit. Entry is £2 which can be paid using the u3a card reader.
There will be a collection towards the work of the North West Music Trust so please bring cash if you wish to donate. If anyone needs a disabled car space let Mike Parker know and don’t forget there is level access to the Clubhouse at the rear if needed.
Ello, ello, ello ….what’s all this here then?
One of latest outings was quite ‘arresting’!
Thanks to Paul Bennet who organised a brilliant trip to the Greater Manchester Police Museum.
There was a chance to learn about the history of police in the Manchester area, along with lots of artefacts to see.
And of course, there was a chance to try out the exhibits…..and some role playing when some of our members got quite into their parts.
Later there was a chance for a bite to eat – and meet one of the city’s famous sons, LS Lowry in Sam’s Chop House.
Some also saw the colourful lanterns on the streets ready for the Chinese New Year.
On your bikes for Spring
Some latest news about the social cycling group which you may have seen.
New member, Mike has offered to convene the group and there is a plan for the first ride on Thursday, March 7, at 10am. More details to follow, so get those gears checked for a Spring outing.
Amazing nature…
Who would have thought that fungi could eat plastic waste?
That was just one of the marvels discussed at the latest Natural History group which met indoors rather than brave the freezing weather. Tricia spoke about connection between nature and the many ways scientists and engineers have been inspired.
She provided objects, words and pictures for members to match the natural things to the objects inspired by them. Much thought and discussion took place with some surprising results.
Observation and creative thinking has led to the many benefits that we enjoy. Who knew that NASA uses Sansevieria (Mother in Laws Tongue) to clean space capsules of harmful toxins or that hedgehog spines inspired the creation of Kevlar used in the bumpers of racing cars and also in bullet proof vests!
Amazing discoveries are being made about fungi some of which may help our problems with waste. There are fungi that ‘eat’ plastic and those that could clean up radiation pollution, in fact Chernobyl has a flourishing colony of these fungi.
Nature is amazing and truly inspirational.
Better late than never..
Thanks to Audrey who sent this photo from a pre Christmas game of bowls. We think this is classed as an end that couldn’t be any closer!
Audrey was playing with Sally and Jen and this was after a few previous close ends.
If you have any interesting stories or photographs from your groups, please send them to Lynn.
Policies and documents
While there is always lots to do at our u3a, sometimes we forget the behind-the-scenes information.
All our policies and statements are available on the website for your perusal. Just look under the Menu button and click on Documents.
Looking forward…….
There’s lots of things being lined up for 2024, with outings and theatre visits as well as all your well-loved groups. Keep an eye on the website and your monthly newsletter.
Look forward to lots of laughing, learning and living, with your WPVu3a.
Don’t struggle
Anyone who struggles with the website can find help by clicking on the Help option from the website menu.
Anyone having difficulty getting to meetings, we can reserve a parking spot right next to the clubhouse. Just let us know.
National news
Don’t forget your can get all the national u3a news as well as lots of info about different courses etc at the national u3a website.
We hope you have enjoyed this month’s newsletter. If you have any contributions please contact Lynn using the form below.