SUNDERLAND U3A

NOVEMBER 2012 No: 30

Sunderland U3A Fulwell Methodist Church Dovedale Road Sunderland

MEETING: 3rd Wednesday of each month at 1.30 for 2.00pm

Spirit of the Tyne MEMBERSHIP: 0191 549 0984

Sunderland University of the Third Age: A member of the Third Age Trust

NOVEMBER 2012 FROM THE EDITORS CONTENTS The summer weather may have been disappointing, but the U3A still managed to stage lots of interesting activities and events for members to enjoy. You can read about some From the Editorial Team 2 of these events in this issue. If you are still hesitating over trying new activities then From the Chair 3 perhaps the accounts in this edition may encourage you to try something different in Future speakers 3 2013. And remember, we only have such an interesting programme thanks to the efforts of volunteers from among the membership. Group News 4 Tynedale U3A Exhibition 10 On a personal note, this is the fifth year I have been working on the magazine: enough for anyone … so I plan to stand down and make way for someone with fresh ideas to Who’s for Tai Chi? 10 take over. Dorothy will take over the production of the next issue in May 2013 and I Scramston Hall Garden 11 hope you will give her your support (and write lots of material). If anyone would like to Walkers’ Prayer 12 think about taking over in the future, please talk to Dorothy. Book Sculptures 13 Elsie Bringing Music to the People 14 ======Fascinating Words 15 Public Sculpture: The Dive, the Surface and the Roll 16 Quiz: Occupations 16 Comet ISON 17 Go to Work on a Christmas Card 18

Singing in the Rain 18 Elephant Artist Sri Computer Woes 19 Si am at work at the

Some Computer Firsts 19 Lamphang Elephant

Camp in Thailand. NHS Advice on 5 a Day 20 Recipes 21 Anniversaries 22

Dates For Your Diary 23

Regional & National News 25 Answers to Quiz 27 Groups at a Glance 28 Contact Us 29

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FROM THE CHAIR GROUP NEWS Hello Everyone As winter and Christmas approaches I hope you can look back on an enjoyable year in U3A, I’m sure we’ll all agree, is a wonderful organisation and we appreciate our own U3A. Our group leaders have continued to put so much effort and hard work into the branch. We enjoy getting together to meet friends and listen to the Speaker of the running of the groups. I am sure you will all join me in saying a BIG thank you to them. Month. Some of us also enjoy and are very grateful for what the various Group Leaders The new gardening group in 2012 delighted us with visits to exceptional gardens. I was have organised for us. But how many people stop and think ‘What can I contribute?’ able to go to Thorpe Perrow and Scampton gardens, both of which I enjoyed very much. Education and learning, in the widest sense, are fundamental to the organisation, but it The new antiques group has also been successful with the addition of speakers and is all founded on the idea of learning from each other and of active participation. also a visit to an auction rooms in November. This is proving to be very popular.. Increasingly the work and the organising are being done by a small group of people and There are however a few groups that are struggling to get members and it would be this is not a healthy situation. Everyone has skills. More people need to get involved – such a pity if we had to lose them! The science group is one of these although it offers even if it is only to make the tea! such interesting and fascinating subjects. Maybe in the new year we could all look New ideas and new people are needed if we are to progress. Can you offer to lead a closely at the various groups and perhaps join a new one...... especially if you have not new Group? Help is always on hand. Do you attend a Group where you could help / been to any for any reason. You will be warmly welcomed and be assured of an work with the Leader to lighten the load? Can you contribute an article to the Magazine? enjoyable time! Please think about it Can you help with the Magazine? Are you willing to put yourself forward for the You may have some ideas yourself either to be more involved with a group or even to Committee? – perhaps shadow someone with a view to taking over when they step start a new one. If so we would be delighted to see you and discuss it with you. Just down at the next AGM. Is there a Group you have thought of attending but haven’t got speak to me, Sheila Humby, or any member of the committee. round to it? Some Groups are in danger of folding because of lack of members and, to coin a phrase, when they’re gone they’re gone. A happy Christmas to everyone and a happy healthy 2013. Please think carefully about the above and contact me with your suggestions of what Sheila Humby you can offer. This is not my usual type of address to members but I have had a meeting with other AMATEUR ARTISTS local U3A Chairs and getting more people involved has been a topic for discussion. I Meetings are on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month, at 10.15 at would so like to report back to my next meeting with them that I got a positive response. Railway Museum. Regards We are a small friendly group who like to dabble in a variety of styles and media. Mostly we just like to have fun and don’t take ourselves Judith too seriously so if you fancy it do come along and join us – we can make room for one or two more at present.. You don’t need any materials to begin with – just come and try before splashing out. FUTURE MEETINGS Mar ion Miller 0191 548 1009 Josie Thompson 0191 534 2702 December 19 Christmas Party – ticket only ANTIQUES AND COLLECTORS 2013 Group aims and objectives January 16 The Durham Magnesium Plateau – Ken Bradshaw • Research origins and dates of artefacts February 20 Life in the 1950s – Phil Curtis • Check provenance/authenticity • March 20 My Life – Ventriloquism and Magic – Ward Allan Group discussion on objects brought along • Check possible valuations via the internet April 17 Scenes of Crime – John Yearnshaw • To discuss tips on restoration and cleaning. May 15 Resources at Beamish – Helen Barker So come along with your small portable items or photos of larger items. We meet at 10.30 on the first Wednesday of the month at Monkwearmouth Railway Museum. Rob Lewin 0789 1942 107

3 4 CINEMA KEEP MOBILE Lunchtime Liaisons at the Customs House, - films vary New members are most welcome and no experience is necessary. No special from period dramas to the biggest blockbusters. You can also join us for footwear or clothing is required. We meet every Friday (except 3 rd Friday) at 10.45 lunch prior to the film. Details at general meeting. am at Fulwell Methodist Church Linda Thompson 0191 549 5693 Norma Robins 0191 416 4498 LOOKING @ ART COMPUTER & DIGITAL SUPPORT In June we made another visit to the Glass Centre which has This group is run as a ‘Drop-In’ which offers advice and support to become a favourite place for the group. Everyone had an enjoyable anyone wanting to improve their computing skills, for Word processing, day and a delicious lunch. spreadsheets, power-point, internet use, digital photography, sound editing – you name it! Many of the attendees in the past have wanted July. We visited the Winter Gardens Museum for WHAT'S YOUR to do Digital Image work, but there is much more available if required. STORY EXHIBITION of family history and a small art exhibition of paintings mainly on loan from other Art Galleries. There was so With all that on offer, it is a bit disappointing that numbers attending are frequently much variety in the numerous family histories we all found something of personal only two or three – and this group is also open to Wearside U3A, and most of the interest giving lots to discuss & reminisce. ‘two or three’ are usually from Wearside rather than Sunderland. In September we made a trip to Hexham. We all boarded Ian's coach and after a Meetings are held the first and third Tuesdays of each month, 10:30 a.m. in the coffee stop at Brockbushes we went on to The Queen's Hall, Hexham to see the computer room at Amble Tower, Lakeside, Gilley Law. The next meeting will be th Tynedale U3A's Art and Craft Exhibition. (see separate article) Afterwards some of on 15 January, though if numbers continue to be low, the group will die. us went into the Abbey to see another Art exhibition which was very good. Then we Alan Denham 0191 521 2760 found an excellent place to have lunch then free time to look around. Everyone had a VERY enjoyable day. GARDENING Our October meeting was nearer home as we visited St. Andrew's church for Ann Aldridge 0751 2307 518 Judith Ayles 07985 317 478 a guided tour. Our guide Norman gave us a very in-depth tour He knew everything about St. Andrew's and loved telling us all the history. It is a gem in our midst! GEOLOGY known as the Arts and Crafts Cathedral of the North East. Our grateful thanks to The Geology group meets in the Bangladeshi Centre in Tatham Street on the third Norman Duncan for a fantastic tour. Friday each month at 2 p.m. Talks are given on a variety of subjects relating to In November we will be visiting South Shields Art Gallery to see A Grand Tour. anything on Earth (and sometimes beyond). No scientific knowledge is needed, Maureen Wilson and Sue McBride have offered to meet us and give an informal talk just an interest in the world about us. about the background of the exhibition. We will also see WHEN WORLDS MEET. In November we will be having an illustrated talk on The Isle of Arran An intriguing story of AYUBA SULIMAN DIALLO with a portrait of him on loan from by Alan Denham. Decembe r will be a slide show on practically the National Portrait Gallery in London. anything. We welcome all members new and not so new. We assure you of a warm friendly In the New Year we will be following on the previous study of the early Periods of and interesting welcome. Come and join us on the third Thursday of the month !!! Earth with a look at the later Periods. Sheila Humby 0191 548 2259 Rose Marshall 0191 528 1468 John Baty 0191 522 6462 LUNCH HISTORY On the 2 nd Wednesday of the month, at different venues. Look for details at the nd History Group meets on the 2 Thursday of the month at Fulwell monthly meeting. Church, with a number of visits over the summer. Norma Robins 0191 416 4498 Linda Thompson 0191 549 5693

5 6 Our December read will be” Cold Comfort Farm” by Stella Gibbons - the December MUSIC APPRECIATION meeting date will change to avoid Christmas holiday closing. Every month a group of us meet in Dock Street for a couple of hours of pleasure and entertainment. Different members present a programme on a topic they have Rose Marshall 0191 528 1468 chosen, using a variety of musical items from all types of music – classical, folk, pop, musicals, humour, etc. SCIENCE We are blessed in having so many members who willingly concoct Science Group has offered some good sessions – but they have programmes for us to enjoy. We could not do without them, and they not been well attended! In September we had our first external often speak of how much they themselves have got out of doing them, and how one speaker – Graham Relf spoke to us on “Time and Space as Seen topic sparks off another possibility. But, as I have said before, compiling a from Wearside”. Graham gave us an excellent session, much of it programme is not a necessary qualification for belonging to the group. We need on astronomical photography. He has some very impressive pictures! listeners as well. However, if an idea were to come to mind, and the question was, However, in October Alan was due to speak on How Computers Developed – and how to go about it, I would be happy to lend a hand. If you are free on the 4th he had an audience of ONE, so the talk was not delivered. Friday of the month, you are welcome to join with us, if just occasionally. November 23rd - Your choice of seasonal music, followed by a buffet lunch, This group is also open to members from Wearside (again, most of the attendees provided by ourselves. are from Wearside), and has tried First Mondays (not popular, attendance was low) December - No meeting Second Thursdays (same problem). Due to attendance figures, the group is now January 25th 2013 - Music inspired by Shakespeare suspended. It will try one last time in February (date to be arranged) and its February 24th - Film Music continuation thereafter will be decided at that time. Joyce Hoseason 0191 548 6041 Alan Denham 0191 521 2760

POETRY APPRECIATION TAI CHI An enthusiastic group who find some varied poems on a chosen topic The Tai Chi group meets every Tuesday afternoon from 2.00pm to to stimulate reminiscences, discussion and some laughs. Everyone 3.00pm at Fulwell Methodist Church. Tai Chi involves gentle exercise chooses two poems on a previously chosen topic. These are read under the guidance of our excellent tutor Michael. Classes are geared and discussed. Everyone seems to enjoy looking through books for to suit all levels of ability and all are welcome. something appropriate. Everyone welcome. The cost is £4 per session. No special clothing or equipment is Elizabeth Robson 0191 567 1421 needed - you just need comfortable clothing and footwear. Come and chill! READING GROUP Dorothy Scott 0191 5652108 We meet at the Central Library on the 4th Thursday of the month at TEN PIN BOWLING 2pm. Our books are provided by the Library which enables us to provide the whole group free of charge. Any U3A member is welcome No meetings until the building reopens – watch for details to join us, numbers have dropped recently due to re-location and Martin & Primrose Walker 0191 567 8920 granny-sitting duties and we would like the benefits provided by the Library Service to be fully used. TRAVEL GROUP In September we discussed ”The Lieutenant” by Kate Grenville. This was set in The travel group meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in Monkwearmouth Australia in 1788 and was based on the life of William Dawes, a mathematician and Station Museum at 10.15 a.m. for a 10.30 a.m. start. scientist who combines a love of astronomy with his duties and developing a Since the last report members have enjoyed DVD's on interesting rapport with the local natives of New South Wales. places featuring things to do whilst on holidays to Switzerland, Our October discussion was about” ” by Alan Titchmarsh, the multi talented Edinburgh, Budapest and Prague. garden expert, writer and TV presenter. This book was about 3 generations of We have a full bus going to Scotland for our Christmas break of 5 days families who met at University in the 1920s and their intertwining lives, including the in December. We will be joined by 16 members of the South Shields (Caer Urfa) Auctioneering business and an Art Gallery. U3A who are very pleased to be coming with us. We are currently reading” The People of the Book” by Geraldine Brooks and will Bob Younger 0191 549 0984 discuss this in November.

7 8 WALKING TYNEDALE U3A EXHIBITION Our walks are approximately 4 miles and we try to keep to good paths. In September the Looking at Art group visited an Exhibition of Arts and Crafts by We walk on the second Wednesday of each month. If you are interested Tynedale U3A. We were warmly welcomed by members of the committee at The look out for the sheet at the monthly meeting. Why not give it a go? Queen’s Hall and were VERY impressed and amazed at the talent as we wandered round the exhibition. There will be no walks until further notice because of my injured foot. However, if anyone would like to lead a walk it would be greatly appreciated. As well as the paintings we were astounded by the beautiful quilting and the fine fabric which had been dyed and woven into a beautiful scarf. We also saw very professional Bob Younger 0191 549 0984 craft work such as wood carving and turning, bookbinding and other models and figures. We were all thrilled and enthralled by the exhibition and thanked our hosts for a very enjoyable visit. We all enjoyed our day. REPORT ON RITA ======U3A members (individually or in groups) were invited to submit suggestions for research projects. There were 40 entries from 15 U3As. Sunderland U3A did not have an entry. WHO’S FOR TAI CHI? FIRST PRIZE (£1,000). Hartlepool and District U3A was concerned about the lack of Have you seen Calendar Girls? Or members from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. Their proposal was for a study of maybe you have seen pictures of the barriers to U3A membership; determine what would induce people to join; and groups of people practising a develop a programme to improve the social inclusivity of their U3A. graceful, slow moving exercise in China. If so you will have some SECOND PRIZE (£500). Maureen Stephenson (Alnwick U3A) proposed a idea of what Tai Chi looks like. comprehensive analysis of the overall contribution of older people to the UK economy to Failing that you could always stroll combat negative stereotyping. down to Fulwell Methodist Church Hall on a Tuesday afternoon, where ======you can see and join in our very own Tai Chi Group. Tai Chi developed as a martial art in 13th century China but has become a stylised exercise programme consisting of slow, graceful movements which SUNDERLAND U3A are gentle on the joints and muscles. As such it is an appropriate form of exercise for the older person and studies have shown that tai chi can help people aged 65 and over to reduce stress, improve balance and general mobility, and increase muscle strength in CHRISTMAS PARTY 2012 the legs. In fact it is great exercise at any age. The Christmas Party is on Wednesday December 19th. Our sessions begin with gentle warm up exercises know as Chi Kung, which are designed to open up the energy Professionally provided buffet and entertainment. gates. Soothing background music helps to create an atmosphere of peace and relaxation to aid the process. This year it will be admission by ticket only Mind you, if you stand next to me you may find all you hear are the cracks and creaks as the old bones get Tickets cost £6 each. moving! (Martin, who will be selling the tickets, wants cash please We then move on to the Hun Yuan 24 form, which is a and, if possible, the correct money.) derivation of the Chen style of Tai Chi, and also the Beijing 24 form, which is in the Yang style. These two styles have subtle differences which give variation and add interest. A central principle of Tai Chi is the concept

9 10 of ‘yin and yang’, or the interaction We did quite a bit of plant spotting but as the heavens then opened we all beat a hasty between complimentary forces such as retreat to the restaurant, which proved to be very pleasant with an interesting menu. female and male, light and dark, sun and moon and so on. It also seeks to instil Duly fed and watered we then assembled at the Hall itself, where we were met by Sir Charles Legard, father of the present incumbent. He apparently likes to greet all of his positive thoughts, feelings and actions. If this is all starting to sound a bit deep I visitors (and lock them in!) before they are shown around the house by a guide. The should add that we concentrate on the house is regency in style and has been in the same family since the 1690s. The rooms exercises themselves and their beneficial are pleasant and there is a good collection of artwork and porcelain. effect – all the background information just Once the tour was ended and the doors were helps to add interest. Nor do we take unlocked we tumbled out into a sunny afternoon and ourselves too seriously. Michael, our set off to explore the extensive grounds, admiring the instructor, often reminds us we should Arcadian Bridge in particular, and enjoying a pleasant smile as we are exercising and you should stroll along the river to the cascade. The walk back hear some of his jokes! was through open parkland with some distant views The final part of the session consists of some closing exercises. These are, if you like, of the house. the cooling down exercises, and are theoretically designed to store the chi Of course, no visit energy generated by the earlier exercises. They generally calm the body to a house and and mind and bring a feeling of relaxation. Despite the slow and gentle gardens would be complete without the judicious nature of a Tai Chi session it is amazing how, by the end of the session, you purchase of a plant or two, and Scampston did not are aware of having worked hard. Well worth £4 of anyone’s money. disappoint in this respect. There was a good selection of very healthy plants, some quite unusual. For ======instance, I came home with a white ragged robin, GARDEN GROUP: SCAMPSTON HALL GARDEN VISIT which I hope will survive at my tender mercies and reappear next year, together with the giant nepeta I also bought. All in all it was a very On a bright but showery day in late June the pleasant day out. gardening group set off on a visit to Scampston Hall ======and Gardens. Situated as it is near Bedale it meant a pleasant drive down through rural Yorkshire – apart from the traffic on the dual carriageway, that is. THE WALKERS’ PRAYER The head gardener came to meet and greet us on Lord bless all walkers that they may live long and healthy lives; especially bless our arrival and gave a brief chat about what was to be leaders for they are all powerful and lead us through the wilderness. Yea, though they enjoyed on our visit. Duly armed with map and plant lead us down the valleys and over the hills, we shall feel no pain for our hearts, minds directory we set off on a tour of the walled garden, and muscles are numb. Let them know their north from their south and their east from which consists of various areas, or rooms, such as Drifts of Grass, The Silent Garden, their west and, Lord, let the sun shine so that they may have a faint idea in which The Perennial Meadow and so on. The aim of the owners when the garden was direction we are heading. renovated in 1999 was to create a contemporary feel, and there are large borders filled Grant, O Lord, that they curb their tongues and not with swaying perennials as well as areas of formal hedging, tell us that we have walked 7 miles when we know topiary and flowing yews. We really could not have visited at a we have walked 10. Also, let them know the better time of year, as most of the plants were in full bloom, difference between a gentle slope and a sheer cliff. providing a colourful and dramatic display. (It is not open all year so it is advisable to check Give them the ability to count so that they know the opening periods.) number of walkers so that none shall go astray. Make them prevent the leaders starting to walk the All of the plants are numbered, moment everyone has caught up. so by reference to the plant directory you can easily Curse those walkers who overtake the leader; let their sticks break, their laces come identify each one – a very undone and their flasks leak. Curse also those who disappear into the woods without helpful way of doing things. telling the backmarker.

11 12 Grant, O Lord, sunshine at all times, but not too hot; cooling breezes but not strong The Central Library found one of a book with a magnifying winds; shade and incomparable views when we are resting. Spare us from brambles, glass left on a shelf. A wing of delicate feathers with a note nettles and other obstructions. Lead us not down the wrong paths. “10/10” suggested there were 10 and started a search to find the others. The final one – a moonlit street scene - was Finally, Lord, let us arrive back at our cars safe and sound, for we are children of the discovered by staff at the Writer’s Museum on the donations wilderness, the blind being led by the blind. And we are shattered. Give us the strength box in the Robert Louis Stevenson room. to turn up for the next walk for we are of the tribe, stupid and know no better. Several of the pieces have references We ask all this with tongue in cheek, ever conscious that many a true word is spoken in to Ian Rankin and in November he jest. received a mysterious parcel containing a final sculpture showing a pair of carousing skeletons on a coffin ARTS AND LITERATURE lid.

EDINBURGH BOOK SCULPTURES An exhibition of the sculptures is currently touring libraries in Scotland. This story started in March 2011, when staff at the Scottish ======Poetry Library found an unusual sculpture carved from paper and mounted on a book. It had been left BRINGING MUSIC TO THE PEOPLE anonymously on a table with a gift tag (addressed to the library’s Twitter account @byleaveswelive) which read: “It In a similar vein, the “flash mob” phenomena is spreading – seemingly impromptu public started with your name @byleaveswelive and became a performances of classical music in shopping centres, stations, public squares – even tree.… … We know that a library is so much more than a train carriages. A flashmob is a group of people who assemble suddenly in a designated building full of books… a book is so much more than pages place, perform an unusual act for a brief time, then quickly disperse. The events are full of words.… This is for you in support of libraries, books, usually organized via social media or emails Typically one performer stands up and words, ideas….. a gesture (poetic maybe?)” Despite much starts performing and slowly others appear from amongst the spectators or nearby publicity, no one came forwarded to claim ownership. buildings until a full scale orchestra or choir. Several have become popular You Tube Then in June another offering appeared, this time at the videos such as the Copenhagen Phil surprising passengers on the Copenhagen Metro National Library of Scotland where the piece, crafted from an Ian Rankin novel, depicted with a rendition of Griegs Peer Gynt. a coffin and a gramophone, with the tag “For @natlibscot – A gift in support of libraries, In October last year, Newcastle’s Grainger Market experienced its own flashmob when books, words, ideas….. (& against their exit)”. Undercover Opera – “ bringing opera to the people and blowing the doors off of the Soon the Filmhouse had received an intricate work showing, appropriately, a cinema, opera house” - organised a performance of Verdi’s Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves complete with audience watching actors and horses charging towards them out of the In Spain, the Sabadell Bank organised a huge flashmob to celebrate its 130 th birthday – screen. The gift tag read “For @filmhouse – A gift in support of libraries, books, words, a monster event that started with a lone double base playing the opening bars of ideas….. and all things *magic*. Beethoven’s Ode to Joy and slowly grew to and orchestra and chorus of over 100 Over the next few months, further people playing to an ever-growing crowd of shoppers – with enthusiastic conducting gifts came to light, each one left from some of the audience! anonymously at some public arts venue. In July the Scottish Storytelling Centre found a dragon nesting in a window. Two more appeared during the Edinburgh

International Book Festival, including this one of a teacup (left) on a table with the tag “To @edbookfest ‘A gift’ This is for you in support of libraries, books, words, ideas…… & festivals xx”. The cup on the top has a swirl of words which read ” Nothing beats a nice cup of tea (or coffee) and a really good BOOK”.

A busker starts More appear 13 14 FASCINATING WORDS PUBLIC SCULPTURE: THE DIVE, THE SURFACE AND THE ROLL Syllogism: A form of deductive reasoning, or logic, first defined by Aristotle. It takes the form of an opening major premise on which the whole chain depends, then states a minor premise and then makes a deduction from these eg Major premise: All humans are mortal. Minor premise: All Greeks are humans. Conclusion: All Greeks are mortal. Of course if you start with an incorrect premise, then you end up with an incorrect conclusion: Major premise: All cats are black Where : Roman Ford Picnic Site, Barnard Minor premise: Tabby is a cat Castle Conclusion: So Tabby is black Date: 1998 The pitfalls are great, and you are more likely to find examples of false reasoning than true deduction. Sculptor : Keith Alexander

The politician’s syllogism , also called politician’s logic. goes like this: Three stone seats are found in a picnic area Major premise: We must do something on the site of a former gasworks by the side Minor premise: This is something of the River Tees in Barnard Castle. The Conclusion: So we must do this seats are around a paved picnic area which In other words, doing anything is better than doing nothing - an error also frequently contains at its centre a circular clay mosaic of made by incompetent management!. This particular flawed example was an invention of fish, waves and ducks. the civil servants in a 1988 episode of the political sitcom Yes, Prime Minister titled 'The Dive' features the torso of a female "Power to the People". figure diving into water, 'The Surface' You will recognise the structure in many everyday examples. Rodger Donaldson, for portrays the same figure returning to the example, identifies the security syllogism - the prevalence of security procedures that surface and 'The Roll' represents a dead don't increase security, sheep. The work refers to local stories of 'the 1. Increased security inconveniences users. roll', a large wave of water that, before the 2. This policy inconveniences users. making of the Cow Green Reservoir, 3. Therefore this policy is more secure. regularly caused havoc on its journey down stream from Middleton-in-Teesdale. While He cites the example of a system administrator who decided to implement stronger local children enjoyed the benefits of extra passwords by expiring the old passwords of all users and forcing them to pick longer water in the Tees (the nearby river was not and more arbitrarily complex passwords, which of course they could not remember usually deep enough to swim in), the roll was without writing them down. I think that’s one we all can recognise from banks, pin known to drown animals and damage crops numbers, computer passwords … the list is endless. en route.

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QUIZ: OCCUPATIONS answers p 27 Only two things are infinite, the universe and Name what these people do: human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the 1. Fletcher 2. Cooper former. 3. Chapman 4. Colporteur Albert Einstein (1879-1955) 5. Cordwainer 6. Costermonger 7. Mercer 8. Grieve 9. Manciple 10. Lapidary

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GO TO WORK ON A CHRISTMAS CARD SCIENCE If all the UK's discarded wrapping paper and Christmas COMET ISON cards were collected and fermented, they could make enough biofuel to run a double-decker bus to the moon In September 2012 Comet ISON was discovered by the and back more than 20 times, according to the International Scientific Optical Network in Russia. Looking back researchers at Imperial College. Their study at previous observations, astronomers soon discovered that demonstrated that industrial quantities of waste paper there had been previous sightings in 2011 and from these its could be turned into high grade biofuel to power motor orbit could be calculated. The comet currently is a faint object vehicles, by fermenting the paper using microorganisms. beyond the orbit of Jupiter, but it will grow brighter as it The researchers hope that biofuels made from waste paper could ultimately provide one approaches the sun and should be visible to the naked eye by October next year. It will alternative to fossil fuels like diesel and petrol, in turn reducing the impact of fossil fuels pass close by the surface of the sun in November and the fact that it can be seen when on the environment. so far from the sun, probably means that it will survive the encounter and head out again for the outer reaches of the solar system. It is predicted that it will then pass According to some estimates 1.5 billion cards and 83 square kilometres of wrapping closest to the earth – about 64 million miles – on Boxing Day. Some predictions claim it paper are thrown away by UK residents over the Christmas period. They currently go to may be brighter than the full moon at that time – a spectacular display in the night sky, landfill or are recycled in local schemes. This amount of paper could provide 5-12 million looking to the west. But astronomers warn that new comets which almost skim the sun litres of biofuel, say the researchers, enough to run a bus for up to 18 million km. are notoriously difficult to predict – it could just fizzle out. One of the researchers commented: "People should not stop recycling their discarded Its orbit is surprisingly similar to that of the Great Comet of paper and Christmas cards because at the moment there is no better solution. However, 1680 (Kirch’s Comet) and that has caused some speculation if this technology can be developed further, waste paper might ultimately provide a that the two bodies may be fragments the same larger great, environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. There's more work to do to comet, or even the same comet returning. The Great Comet assess the effectiveness and benefits of the technology, but we think it has significant was discovered in November 1680 by Gottfried Kirch - the potential." first person to discover a comet using a telescope. A High grade ethanol, such as that made in this study, can be (and already painting by Lieve Verschuier shows the Great Comet over is) blended with fossil-based petrol to make a fuel with lower greenhouse Rotterdam (left). It terrorised the Dutch settlers in America:: gas balance than conventional petrol for cars and vans, and can also be "Late in the autumn of 1680, the good people of Manhattan used to power large diesel vehicles like buses and trucks, if modifications were overcome with terror at the sight in the heavens such are made to their engines. This approach is already used in Brazil, the as has seldom greeted human eyes." USA and the EU, among other regions, where ethanol biofuels are being made from Comets are made of material left over after the formation of the solar system - small sugar cane, grain and other crops. Most of the UK's biofuel is currently imported from balls of frozen gases, dust and ice, often called “dirty snowballs”. They come from the abroad. outer reaches of the solar system, from what is known as ======the Oort Cloud and like everything else in the solar system they orbit the sun. Collisions may knock them out SINGING IN THE RAIN of the Oort Cloud into an orbit which enters the inner solar system and as they approach the sun, material US engineers have found that by listening to how a highway bridge sings in the rain they begins to melt and it is this that forms the tail of the can determine serious flaws in the structure. Using a technique called impact-echo comet. Most end by plunging into the sun, but some – testing – similar to the hitting of train wheels with hammers like Haley’s Comet - reach stable orbits. Such comets - they analyse the sound created when a rain droplet hits have a wide range of orbital periods, ranging from a few the bridge and this can reveal hidden stresses and faults. years to hundreds of thousands of years. Professor Mazzeo said. "We can detect things you can't see with a visual inspection; things happening within the ======bridge itself." The study presents a more efficient and cost- effective method to address the mounting safety concerns Handy Tip : over bridge corrosion and aging across the U.S. and Turn your stop tap off and on, once a year. If you cannot turn it off, use beyond. penetrating fluid to free the rust. F Cole

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COMPUTER WOES Take heart, if you despair that you are technologically FOOD challenged, you "ain't seen nuthin" yet. Here are some tales of woes from a Wall Street Journal article: NHS ADVICE ON 5 A DAY 1. Compaq considered changing the command "Press Any Advice on eating 5 a day can often be confusing. Here are some Key" to "Press Return Key" because of the flood of calls common questions: asking where the "Any" key is. Does the fruit and veg have to be fresh? 2. Technical support had a caller complaining that her mouse was hard to control with No. Fresh, frozen, chilled, canned and dried fruit and vegetables the dust cover on. The cover turned out to be the plastic bag the mouse was all count. However, some nutrients are destroyed by heat during packaged in. cooking - try steaming, microwaving or poaching rather than boiling. 3. A confused caller to IBM was having trouble printing documents. He told the How much is one portion of fruit for adults? technician that the computer had said it "couldn't find printer." One portion of fruit is approximately 80g – eg half a large grapefruit, a slice of melon or He had had tried turning the computer screen to face the printer- two satsumas. One portion of dried fruit is around 30g - eg three dried apricots or one but that his computer still couldn't "see" the printer. tablespoon of raisins. A 150ml glass of unsweetened 100% fruit or vegetable juice counts as a portion – but only one glass counts however much you drink. 4. An exasperated caller to Dell Computer Tech Support couldn't get her new computer to turn on. After ensuring the computer How much is one portion of vegetables for adults? was plugged in, the technician asked her what happened when One portion of vegetables is approximately 80g - three heaped tablespoons of cooked she pushed the power button. Her response, "I pushed and carrots, peas or sweetcorn, or one cereal bowl of mixed salad. pushed on this foot pedal and nothing happened." The "foot Beans and pulses count as a maximum of one portion a day, however much you eat. pedal" turned out to be the computer's mouse... This is because, while pulses contain fibre, they don’t give the same mixture of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients as fruit and vegetables. ======Do potatoes count? SOME COMPUTER FIRSTS No: Potatoes, yams, cassava and plantain are vegetables but don’t count because they contribute mainly starch to your diet. Other root vegetables, such as sweet • The technology behind the Internet began in the 1960 ′s at MIT. The first message potatoes, parsnips, swedes and turnips do count towards your fruit and veg portions. to be transmitted was LOG. Why? The user attempted to type LOGIN, but the network crashed after the enormous load of data of the letter G. Do the fruit and vegetables in convenience foods and takeaways count towards my 5 A DAY? • The first webcam was set up at Cambridge University computer lab – its sole They can count but such foods can be high in added fat, salt and sugar, so only eat purpose to monitor a particular coffee maker and so avoid wasted them occasionally or in small amounts. trips to an empty pot. Can I just eat five portions of my favourite fruit or vegetable? • The computer mouse was invented by Doug Engelbart in 1963. It No: For maximum benefit, you need to eat different types of fruit and vegetables, was made out of wood. because each contains different combinations of fibre, minerals and other nutrients. Fruit and vegetables of different colours also contain different amounts of nutrients • According to legend, Amazon became the number one shopping site because in which is why we are sometimes advised to “eat a rainbow”. For example: the days before the advent of , Yahoo would list the sites in their directory • alphabetically! Blueberries - contain flavonoids that can improve circulation and help defend against infection • The first YouTube video was uploaded in April 2005 by • Broccoli - rich in the antioxidants vitamin C and beta-carotene which can protect Jawed Karim (one of the founders of the site). It was 18 against cardiovascular disease and cancer seconds long, entitled “Me at the zoo”. Now it is estimated • Tomatoes - rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can protect against harmful that 24 hours of video from around the world are uploaded free radicals to YouTube every minute. Do vitamin pills or other dietary supplements count? And finally … In 1943 the chairman of IBM predicted that there would probably only be No: Taking dietary supplements does not have the same health benefits as eating more a world market for 5 computers ... fruit and vegetables which contain additional beneficial substances, such as fibre.

19 20 5 A DAY RECIPES FROM AROUND THE WORLD Cameroon Spinach ANNIVERSARIES

This is traditionally served with a whole barbecued chicken, potatoes and plantains. 600 years ago : Henry V crowned King of England. (9th Apr 1413) Serves: 3 500 years ago: Michelangelo finished painting the ceiling of the 1 tablespoon olive oil Sistine Chapel in Rome, and his work was exhibited to the public minced garlic, to taste for the first time (1 Nov 1512) 280g (10 oz) fresh spinach, rinsed 140g (5 oz)mushrooms, stemmed and quartered 150 years ago: The first section of the London Underground (the Metropolitan line) 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped was opened. It was the world’s first underground railway service (10 Jan 1863) Heat the olive oil with the garlic over medium high heat. 100 years ago: The Piltdown Man (later discovered to be a hoax) found in the Piltdown Add the mushrooms and onion, and sauté until they are about halfway done. Gravel Pit, by Charles Dawson. (18th Dec 1912) Add the spinach, and sauté until the spinach has wilted, about 5 to 7 minutes. 90 years ago: Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon entered Tutankhamun’s tomb (26th Nov 1922) Watergruwel 70 years ago: The British Government published the Beveridge Report, which formed A cold Dutch soup that's perfect for breakfast. It can be stored for at least a week in the the basis of the welfare state (1 Dec 1942) fridge, and amounts and types of fruits can be varied. It's a very flexible recipe! 75g (3 oz) pearl barley 60 years go: Francis Crick and James Watson published article 1.3L (2 3/8 pints) water describing the double helix structure of DNA. (25th Apr 1953) 100g (4 oz) caster sugar 50 years ago NASA’s Mariner 2 spacecraft flew within 21,600 300g (10 oz) frozen raspberries miles of Venus and sent back the first close-up images of another 75g (3 oz) sultanas planet. (14 Dec 1962) 150g (5 oz) cherries, stones removed 40 years ago: UK admitted into the European Community. (1st Jan 1973) Soak the barley in the water overnight in a large bowl; do not drain. In a large saucepan over low heat, simmer the barley for one hour. 30 years ago : The wearing of seatbelts became compulsory in Britain for drivers and Add the sugar, raspberries and sultanas and simmer for another 30 minutes. front seat passengers (31 Jan 1983) Add the cherries and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the soup becomes ======relatively thick. Chill and serve cold. 21 DECEMBER 2012 – A SPECIAL DATE? Spicy Bhindi (Okra) This date marks the end-date of a 5,125-year-long cycle in the A wonderfully spicy vegan Indian dish. Asafoetida is used throughout India and South Meso-american Long Count calendar. Some interpret this as a Asia, and available in Asian and Middle Eastern shops; it should be used sparingly. point at which the Earth will undergo a transformation, others see the end of the world. Various “proofs” have been offered - 500g (1 1/4 lb) fresh okra an inscription carved on a stone staircase in of La Corona, salt to taste Guatemala caused much excitement; as did an internet hoax 1 dessertspoon chilli powder describing the mysterious Planet X or Niburu approaching 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil collision point. Scientists point out that the Mayan calendar 1 pinch asafoetida powder “ends” in the same way as our 2012 calendar ends on 31 1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds December – and we start a new one. Rinse okra and trim ends off. Chop into small pieces. Combine okra, salt, chilli powder and asafoetida. "There apparently is a great deal of interest in celestial bodies, and their In a frying pan heat oil, add black mustard seeds. Cook over medium high heat until locations and trajectories at the end of the calendar year 2012. Now, I for one they pop. love a good book or movie as much as the next guy. But the stuff flying Add okra mixture to frying pan, cover and cook 10 to 15 minutes. Serve hot. around through cyberspace, TV and the movies is not based on science...." - Don Yeomans, NASA senior research scientist

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY WEARSIDE FIELD CLUB Meets at 7.30 pm on the second Tuesday of the month at Fulwell Community Centre, 24-25 Nov Christmas Gift Fair , Bede’s World with children’s activities Chapman Street (£1 entry) plus one Saturday walk/excursion per month (coach fare for 1-2 Dec Christmas Craft Fair at Washington Wetlands Centre, Fair is free but out of area walks). Details from Connie Bulmer on 0191 548 6066. usual entry fee for grounds Sat 24 Nov Visit to Saltaire & Bradford 1 Dec Southwick History Society 10 th Anniversary Celebrations at St Tues 8 Jan Filth Poison (Norman Kirtlan ) Andrews Church Hall, Southwick Sat 9 Feb Walk: Hawthorne Dene, Meet at the Stapylton Arms at 10.00 am Tues 12 Feb The building of Country Park (Ian Graham) 9 Dec Christmas Concert With Damon Willetts Playing the Mighty Compton Tues 12 Mar AGM. John George Lambton & Monument (Bernard Hope) Theatre Organ at Community Centre, Black Road, £4 Sat 23 Mar Local walk: led by Ray & Jean Sharratt. 15-16 Dec Christmas Festival at Bowes Museum Tues 9 Apr Scratching the Earth’s Crust round Sunderland (Jack Inch) Sat 27 Apr Walk/Visit: Goathland & Whitby 26 Dec Boxing Day Dip at Seaburn beach, starting 11am Tues 14 May The Press Gang (Doug Smith) 10 Feb Chinese New Year – year of the Snake – various events Sat 25 May Guided tour of Marina and restored lifeboat followed by short 16 Mar Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield; 11am – 3 pm; walk. Meet at 10.30 am outside Barclays Bank on the seafront adults free, £3 per child FRIENDS OF THE DONNISON SCHOOL 5-7 April Morpeth Gathering 2013 - concerts, street events, dances, exhibitions, A programme of talks by Stuart Miller & Jack Curtis, heritage walks and films at the children's events, crafts, dialect, workshops, films, puppets, tours. Donnison School, Church Walk, SR1 2BJ, Thursdays at 1.30pm, £2.50 incl 18 May Yesterday Belongs to You at Durham refreshments 15 Nov Heritage Walk 1 Jul- 30 Sep Lindisfarne Gospels on display at 6 Dec The Twin Resorts of Roker & Seaburn

SUNDERLAND CIVIC SOCIETY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY Thurs, 7.15 (coffee) for 7.30 at the Age Concern Building, Stockton Road March 8th is International Women's Day - celebrated round the 29 Nov Christmas Party world since the early 1900s. In 1908, 15,000 women marched

through New York City in demand of shorter hours, better pay MONDAY STROLLERS and voting rights and the next year the first National Woman's Walking group meeting locally every other Monday for short gentle walks. For details Day (NWD) was observed across the United States on 28 contact Margaret Ridley on 0191 581 7235 or email [email protected] February 1909. A year later, the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen approved a call for an BEDE LECTURE SERIES International Women's Day to campaign for women's rights. Saturdays, 12 – 1pm at Bede’s World; museum admission charge £3.50 24 Nov Excavations at Seaham, Niall Hammond

Hundreds of events occur not just on this day but throughout March to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women.

======REGULAR MEETINGS: FOSUMS (Friends of Sunderland Museums) Meetings at Sunderland Museum, on second Saturday of each month 2- 4pm; £1 entry fee for non-members. 1 Dec Christmas Social – tickets on sale at Museum 2013 12 Jan John Baty: Sunderland Rocks 16 Feb AGM followed by Colin Orr: A 1930s Childhood 9 Mar Bill Coates: Seaham Lifeboat Disaster & Restoration 13 Apr Bill Griffiths: History of Hadrian’s Wall

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THE BIG EVENT REGIONAL & NATIONAL NEWS The Big Event held in July at Walbottle campus celebrated 30 years of the U3A in this country. In the two morning sessions, members could choose from a wide range of REGIONAL IT GROUP workshops ranging from family history to geology, bridge to wine tasting, digital Held in the office in Pink Lane, most Wednesday mornings. We deal with topics as photography to felting. For those of a musical bent, there was a session on music they are requested, gadgets people bring in, reports from magazines and appreciation or rehearsals - singing, recorders or learning the ukulele - ready for the newspapers, interesting websites we have found and we discuss solutions to closing concert. Some chose to specific problems anyone has experienced during the week. Anyone is welcome browse the many displays by to join the group or even come for a one off visit - just email, text or phone individual U3A groups and beforehand in case we're gadding off .... socialise with people from all over the region. After lunch, Mo Brown: email: [email protected] or phone 0191 252 9603 came a speech from Eric Midwinter, founding father of the REGIONAL FRENCH CONVERSATION GROUP U3A, followed by a concert featuring given by the various All are welcome to join this new group.. We will meet on the 2nd and 4th Monday music groups. Below are some of the month beginning on Monday 10th September from 1pm until 3pm at ASDA photographs from the day - Distribution Depot, Waterview Park, Washington NE38 8QA. For details and there are more on the directions contact Sandie Parsons 0191 4170217 or email Newcastle U3A website. [email protected]

WHAT IS GOING ON IN YOUR U3A REGION? Craft About 30 U3As were represented at the regional meeting held on Wednesday 24th sessions October, Joyce McKay (Regional Development) reported that there are now 46

U3As in the region - with a total membership now exceeding 8000.

Other reports were also received, including:-

At the recent National meeting (at Cirencester) our local man (John Leiper) failed in his bid for the National Chairman's post - but Bill Payton (South Durham U3A) was appointed Regional Trustee. Barbara Lewis is the new chair, and has already set up several committees to examine ways of improving the U3A. Eric Midwinter Tynedale U3A will be celebrating their 30th anniversary in April - a lunch is planned, with Prof Jim Edwardson as speaker. Visitors from other U3As are welcome - 18th April, Hexham Auction Mart, £15 Region have now set up a new website, at http://u3asites.org.uk/northumbria

END TO COPYRIGHT LICENCE Message from Lin Jonas, SEO/Company Secretary I am sorry to have to tell you that we will not be able to renew this licence on behalf of U3A branches. CLA has changed its pricing structure and it has gone from under £20 per U3A to over £140 and there appears to be no leeway. We will continue the dialogue but it is unlikely to be successful. You will, therefore, no Regional Choir Beginners' Ukulele longer be able legally to make multiple copies of a chapter of a book, an article in a journal or magazine, a short story or poem from an anthology. • http://u3asitec.org.uk/live/code/u3asite.php?site=357&page=19618

25 26 U3A SCIENCE & TECNHOLOGY NETWORK ANNUAL SEMINAR, THE PHOENIX YEAR GROUPS AT A GLANCE This was the 10th annual conference held in MONDAY (Not Bank Holidays or some school holidays – see notices & web site) Abergavenny, but for a time it 1 --- seemed it would not happen at 2 Amateur Artists Monkwearmouth Railway Museum 10.15am all, when Mulberry House went 3 --- into liquidation and closed with 4 Card Making Leader’s home 10.00am no notice. With the help of 4 Amateur Artists Monkwearmouth Railway Museum 10.15am Abergavenny U3A members and TUESDAY the Tourist Information Office, a new venue was found to host 1 Computer Support Amble Tower, Lakeside Village 10.30am the seminar at Abergavenny 1 Tai Chi Fulwell Methodist 2.00 pm Thursdays Football Stadium and 2 Poetry Appreciation Monkwearmouth Railway Museum 10.15am members scattered around 2 Tai Chi Fulwell Methodist 2.00 pm 3 Computer Support Amble Tower, Lakeside Village 10.30am various B&B establishments. Finally, in August 50 delegates arrived, a bit uncertain 3 Tai Chi Fulwell Methodist 2.00 pm as to what was going to happen. 4 Tai Chi Fulwell Methodist 2.00 pm

In the event we had a warm welcome from WEDNESDAY the stadium staff, and enjoyed a week of lectures, computer demonstrations, 1 Antiques Monkwearmouth Railway Museum 10.30 am socialising and a visit to the Rhondda 2 Lunch TBA each month 2 Walking TBA each month Morning Heritage Park which included a guided tour 3 MONTHLY MEETING Fulwell Methodist, Dovedale Rd 1.30 for 2pm and "descent" into the mine. Our 4 Ten Pin Bowling Bowling Alley, Wheatsheaf 10.15 am programme covered a wide range of topics, from science in Dr Johnson's dictionary, to THURSDAY fractal art; a discourse on why 1 ------carbohydrates are a greater health risk than 2 History Fulwell Methodist 11.00am fat, followed by a look at rainbows, fogbows 3 Looking at Art Various venues 10.30am nd and ice halos; a series of talks on sight, 4 Reading 2 Floor, Central Library 2.00 pm including John Marriage's demonstration of 4 Travel Monkwearmouth Railway Museum 10.30am

a camera obscura using tin cans and cardboard and, perhaps appropriately, Alex FRIDAY Paterson's description of designing a comfortable chair. All this plus time spent socialising with people from all over the country and more food than we could eat. 1 Keep Mobile Fulwell Methodist 11.00 am 3 Geology Bangladeshi Centre 2.00pm Next year we continue the experience at a new venue – Harper Adams College near 3 Keep Mobile Fulwell Methodist 11.00 am Telford - leaving Abergavenny with much regret and lots of good memories 4 Keep Mobile Fulwell Methodist 11.00 am Science Network Annual Seminar 2013: 4 Music Appreciation Dock Street 10.00am

Monday 12th - Thursday 15th August 2013 at Harper Adams College See website for details : www.u3ascienceseminar.org.uk. CINEMA – this group happens on an ad hoc basis – details at monthly meeting

COFFEE MORNING: held at Fulwell Methodist Church, at 10 for 10.30 am, whenever there is a ANSWERS TO QUIZ (page 16) fifth Wednesday in the month. 1. Makes arrows 2. Makes barrels 3. Pedlar of small goods 4. Hawker of religious books 5. Shoemaker 6. Sells fruit and veg in the street 7. Dealer in textiles 8. Farm manager (in Scotland) 9. Responsible for catering in college or monastery 10. Cuts and polishes stones for jewellery

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CONTACT US

Chair: Judith Ayles 18 Hunter Close, East Boldon, NE36 0TB; 07985 317 478 judithbldn @ btinternet.com Vice-Chair: 3 Rockville, Seaburn, SR6 9EL; 0751 2307 518 Ann Aldridge aldridgeann3 @ gmail.com Secretary: Betty Lenier 0191 536 2843 bettyl @ talktalk.net Treasurer: 85 Ryhope Rd., Sunderland, SR2 7SZ; 0191 567 8920 Martin Walker

Groups Secretary: 07890 982 569 shumby @ talktalk.net Sheila Humby Membership : 103 Dovedale Rd. Sunderland, SR6 8LS; 0191 549 0984 Lilian Younger robertyounger @ lilian47.plus.com

Speakers Sec: 53 Ambleside Tce., Sunderland, SR6 8NP; Susan Quayle 0191 548 8139 Editor: Dorothy Scott 4 Kenton Grove, Sunderland, SR6 0HH; 0191 565 2108 dorothy.mse @ btinternet.com

Committee Members:

Chris Brown Alan Denham 0191 521 2760 Joan Walton Jim Wilson Website: www.sunderlandu3a.co.uk Sunderland U3A email address: sunderlandu3a @ gmail.com Website: sunderlandu3a.co.uk

EDITORS Elsie Denham Dorothy Scott

Next edition May 2013 Copy deadline for next edition 30 April 2013

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