www.u3a.org.uk/aberdeen !

Aberdeen U3A Newsletter August 2020

Message from the Chairman Greetings, fellow U3A members, I hope you are keeping well and finding plenty of things to do during this pandemic. With restrictions slowly lifting, there is hope that we may be able to get together again this coming session, albeit with the appropriate masks, hand sanitisers, and distancing in place. This has been a strange year for all our members. From September till January, all went well, with membership numbers growing and attendance at monthly meetings very healthy. Then in February the threat of COVID-19 started to loom large, leading to lockdown in March. It is a very different world we find ourselves in now compared to this time last year. Like every other aspect of society, Aberdeen U3A is facing difficult challenges arising from the pandemic. Many of the freedoms we have taken for granted are in jeopardy, and it may take some time to get back to pre-lockdown normal. We are having to adapt to survive, and I would like to thank all the group leaders who have managed to keep their meetings going by remote means. Some are using video conferencing (e.g. Zoom) and others are using emails to communicate. We look forward to the day when we can resume face-to-face meetings. The Annual General Meeting, scheduled for June, was postponed and will now take place on 3rd September, with the committee agreeing to stay in place till then. It has been a busy time for some committee members and volunteers since June, particularly the Secretary, Treasurer, Groups Co-ordinator and Newsletter Editor, adjusting to the restrictions as they were announced. I wonder what members have been up to since March? There will be some interesting stories to share when we do all meet up again. It must have been a very difficult time for those who have been ill, or have been shielding. Hopefully the recovery will continue. On a lighter note, I have been reading more lately, (mostly for the grandchildren) and came across this line which may be of interest to anyone thinking of volunteering; “The powers that Mother Nature gave me were powers to do good” (SuperTed, and the Comet of the Spooks, by Robin Lyons). So, if you want to be like Super Ted, and do some good for Aberdeen U3A, you know what to do! Tom Syme

NB: IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Annual membership fees are now due. The membership renewal form should be printed out, completed and returned to the treasurer. This year we are encouraging members to pay the membership fee of £10 by bank transfer, if possible. Details of the Aberdeen U3A bank account are shown on the second page of the membership form. On the bank transfer, please also put as a reference your full name and initial. If you do not have online banking, please send a cheque for £10, made out to Aberdeen U3A, to the treasurer along with your completed membership form. NB: IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING GROUP MEMBERSHIP AND FEES To be a member of any interest group, you must renew your U3A membership. Below is a list of the groups as they normally run. For information on current group activities, see our website www.u3a.org.uk/aberdeen/groups and contact the group leader by using the pigeon icon on the relevant group page. Unless otherwise stated, all groups meet at the Northern Arts Club, 8 Bon-Accord Square, Aberdeen. PLEASE NOTE • As group fees paid for the February-June 2020 session will roll over to the next “normal” session, we are not collecting group fees in September. • If you do not wish to rejoin the same interest group(s), your "credit" for your current group(s) can be transferred as whole or part payment for other groups. • If you do not wish to continue in an interest group, let the group leader know so that others have a chance to join. •If you wish to join a new group, contact the group leader to discuss the options.

ART APPRECIATION LOCAL STUDIES: COUNTRY FOLK AND CITY FOLK 1st Wednesday ion the month Anne Simpson and Edith Wemyss This group will run if a leader comes forward 4th Thursday of the month, 10.00-12.00 CINEMA MAH JONG/SCRABBLE May Martin Val Nesham Every Tuesday afternoon, times by arrangement Kathleen Cordiner The Belmont 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month BOOK GROUP 1 14.00-16.00 Christine Michie PHILOSOPHY 2nd Friday of the month, 13.30-15.30 Ian R Williamson Central Library 4th Wednesday of the month BOOK GROUP 2 14.00-16.00 Jo McPherson POETRY 3rd Friday of the month, 13.30-15.30 Sue Dingle Central Library Sally Dickson CURRENT AFFAIRS Group 1, 3rd Wednesday of the month John Wood Group 2, 4th Tuesday of the month 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month, 14.00-16.00 Group 3, 1st Tuesday of the month DISCUSSION LUNCHES 14.00-16.00 Sheila Noble SCOTTISH HERITAGE 3rd Wednesday of the month, 11.00-12.00 Helen Oram The Carmelite Hotel Anne Murray ENJOYING MUSIC Jane Catto Erica Steele, Michael Steele Group 1, 2nd Thursday of the month Monthly, Tuesday evenings, 19.00-21.00 Group 2, 3rd Thursday of the month By arrangement, leaders’ home 10.00-12.00 FRENCH SHAKESPEARE Lizann Carwood (I) Sue Dingle David Craig (A) 2nd Tuesday of the month, 14.00-16.00 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month SPANISH 13.00-14.00 Intermediate Gordon Duthie 14.15-15.45 Advanced 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month GERMAN 11.00-12.00 Pat McConnachie (B) THEATRE Brian Anderson (I) Times and venues: by arrangement Fiona Watson (A) This group will run if a leader comes forward 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month TRAVEL INTERNATIONAL LUNCHES Enid Knutton Freda Middleton 2nd Wednesday of the month Jane Catto 14.00-18.00 4th Thursday of alternate months WALKING Venue by arrangement. Fiona Watson KNIT AND NATTER 2nd Saturday of the month Gunilla Smith Times and venues: see group web page 11.00 Fridays WRITE YOUR OWN STORY Ma Cameron’s Dinah Hood 1st Wednesday of the month 11.00 Ma Cameron’s GROUPS CO-ORDINATOR REPORT 2020 The list of Interest Groups on the previous page is a guide to those which we hope will run in 2020 - 2021. However, emerging from the lawful lockdown of people and places enforced by the Coronavirus pandemic, the Aberdeen U3A group leaders and responsible contacts had to find, were it possible to do so, some other means of contact with their groups. What they achieved under these circumstances is admirable. I requested details of how they had managed and their preferences for the future. A number of groups have been meeting on Zoom. These include the French and German groups, the Book groups, Discussion and Current Affairs groups and the Music group. Scottish Heritage, Shakespeare, Poetry and Local Studies have been continuing using email. Some activities lend themselves more readily to digital platforms but difficulties arise with those whose activity is outwith the Northern Arts Club and public buildings, like the Walking group which have to adhere to rules on social distancing and travel. Of course nothing can replace face-to face human contact but U3A Group Leaders have found ways of overcoming obstacles and keeping their groups going. Their efforts are admirable. Florence Cal-Anglia

GROUPS IN LOCKDOWN

Some of you may be wondering what a class via a digital platform like Zoom looks like. This is a screenshot from the French class which as you can see, has 16 members in attendance The French group normally has a summer lunch and was determined that this event would take place. They were instructed to make a French lunch dish and provide themselves with a glass (or two) of French wine. Some of them really went to town, laying on a spread of French salamis, cheeses, olives and in the spirit of the event, sporting a black beret and a striped jumper! Find a traditional recipe below for a dish that appeared (and disappeared) at the lunch.

French Toast - Lindsay Ewan The origin of French toast is unknown. One of the first versions goes back to the Roman Empire. The name “French toast” was used in 17th century England. Early French settlers in America called it “pain perdu,” meaning, “lost bread”. French people make this dish from stale bread which would otherwise be thrown away. To make, dip slices of bread in a mixture of beaten eggs, cream and cinnamon. Fry the coated bread in butter until browned. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and maple syrup. Serve with grilled bacon for breakfast or as a snack. In France pain perdu is served as a dessert (without the bacon). The bread can be brioche or croissants, and toppings can be honey, jam or just about Bon ! ! ! Appétit! Not So Locked Down - Anne Mackenzie On entering lockdown I was confident and contented, this had to happen. There would be positive and negative experiences. I used technology to stay in contact with friends and activities even although I am not tech savvy. I listened to music and watched movies. I kept an eye on our government’s plans and actions. I tried to be creative in my home and garden. I was extremely grateful, I live in the country and had access to many walks. I had moments of loneliness but this is the reality, I live alone. When I experienced negative thoughts I flipped a coin and found something positive of which there were many. Travel and social contacts in the future to name a couple. Meantime I have, on the whole, accepted and managed the situation, my cupboards are clean and I am now enjoying a glass of wine.

Get Out and About - David Craig Some U3A members might be wondering - what am I going to to do today / tomorrow / next week? Or thinking, "Oh well, I’ll wait until September or January until the BB hall or NAC opens”. I think we need to face the present reality and I would encourage members to go out for a walk, be out in the open air and get some exercise.There is masses to do in Aberdeen, e.g. Dolphin watch at the Torry Battery Go search and watch heron, otters and kingfishers on the river Dee or Don. See the ducks at Visit Park, , Victoria Park, and Gardens, walk the promenade, visit Fittie, the old Deeside railway line, Kincorth Gramps, , Tullos Gramps, Tollohill Wood or the Broadhill When did you last see the remains of the Shakkin' Briggie? What is(n’t) happening at the Nigg Bay harbour development (ssshh !) Where is the Wallace Tower? Have you been over the Brig o Balgownie? Have a peep at folk’s beautiful gardens and differing house styles! Before you say, “Not every one has transport or are not able to travel because of health issues”, I would say, just stay local and try exploring what is right on your doorstep.

Enjoy your neighbourhood - Florence Cal-Anglia From my home on the Denmore estate I am able to access some lovely walks in Denmore Park. You can observe birds, see ducks dabbling in ponds or just enjoy the trees and wild flowers.

PRACTISE SELF DISTANCING

Tina Stockman - Early one morning Some of you, like me, may be experiencing disturbed sleep. Early one morning, unable to settle, I went for a walk on the Royal Aberdeen Golf Course. I was rewarded with the beautiful sight of a sun halo.

ENJOY THE OUTDOOR ! S The things you meet on lockdown walks Sheila Di Maio I had just entered the back gate to the park. Was doing the usual teachery/adult thing as I passed the skatepark. Were they social distancing, was there litter left lying around, were they giving the little kids on their scooters a chance? And, as usual, the large group of teenagers and young people were having a great time in a very appropriate way. They even smiled at the ‘oldie’ as I passed. As I looked up again I thought, what is that? Mr or Mrs Fox came strolling towards me with not an ounce of trepidation. The fox positively sauntered past, eyeing me, the skatepark, just three feet to the left of me, taking it all in, listening to the

music and behaving as if it owned the space. The fox passed us all by then stopped by a bushy corner, looked back at us for fully 15 seconds before disappearing into the undergrowth. At that point I looked around to see if the teenagers in the skatepark were aware and exchanged a disbelieving shake of the head with a teenage girl sitting on STAY the grass by the side of the skatepark. ALERT

Cycling during lockdown - Tom Syme In March, there was growing concern as the Coronavirus spread around the world. With lockdown, we entered a world of fear and uncertainty. We had to adapt to being prisoners in our own homes, only leaving for essential travel. One justification for crossing the threshold was to take a permitted form of exercise, walking, jogging or cycling, once a day. Social distancing had to be strictly observed and only members from a single household could exercise together. Fortunately, Margaret, my wife, became keen on cycling as all her gym classes were cancelled. What a lifeline that turned out to be. Initially, there was an eerie feeling cycling on rural roads devoid of traffic and with few signs of life. But this gave way to greater appreciation of the natural landscape and changing seasons. In early spring the fields and trees were bare, and flocks of honking geese filled the sky. Gradually everything turned green. Lambs and calves appeared and birdsong filled the air. There were still few people about, but those who were, had a friendly wave or greeting. Now traffic levels are back to normal - and so are the fumes that go with them. With no club runs available and no cafes as a focus, routes were determined by aesthetics and weather. Luckily there are many scenic routes within easy reach of our home. We travelled the quiet roads within a circumference of Ellon, Kemnay, Durris and Netherley. Busier options such as the disused railway lines were avoided as they became too crowded. It is always a pleasure to plan a new route on the map, then cycle it. From our front door we can cycle on paths and quiet lanes without encountering traffic, taking in the banks of the River Don, Scotstown Moor, Perwinnes Moss and Balgownie Links. Stony paths and rough terrain require full concentration, which offers a different challenge from tarmac, and sometimes a bit of adrenaline! The main benefit of cycling is that fresh air and exercise improve your health, fitness and mental wellbeing, which in turn help your defences against infection. In addition, you can travel at a pace which allows you to appreciate the landscape and the natural world. Poems for the locked-down soul - Sue Dingle Get your brain cells working with a quiz

A BAKER'S DOZEN Unpegged webs on washing line All of the following are common sayings, eg No ironing, only dining TMCSTB, ‘Too Many Cooks Spoil The Broth.’ Feast your eyes ——— AAADKTDA Freedom's fenced - lockdown Many ways to live DPAYEIOB Go within, dream, explore. YEABTYB Poets show the way ——— MDAL Play cancelled OMMIAMP Shakespeare knew the world's a stage It never closes YCHYCAEI Improvise TNUCOSM ——— RIADBSC DCYCBTH ALOWYFDYG ASSFF ! Don't just think about wearing a mask - WSFTGISFTG TPOTPIITE

Editor’s Note: Answers will appear in the next global DO IT! email. How to make a mask you will probably never wear GALLERY Tina Stockman

Well, I thought to myself, you used to be an Art teacher, Members of Aberdeen U3A have never been averse to you used to do craft work almost every day, how hard having a good time. Here are a few pictures from could it be to make your own face mask? Filled with 2019/2020 Christmas and New Year celebrations including enthusiasm, I didn’t realise that the answer to that the Christmas party pantomime, French group Christmas question is - VERY hard! I was already in possession of a lunch and New Year lunch. beautiful, effective, commercially-manufactured mask, a gift from a friend in Hong Kong. However, on the premise that home-cooked food is better than restaurant food (not always true but allow me my delusion) I looked up the internet for instructions on making a simple mask. Consequently, I sent off for a pack of large white handkerchiefs, some pipe cleaners, elastic hair bands and some fabric paints. These components do indeed allow you to make a viable mask. The only problem is you look as if you have slapped a baby’s nappy on your face. To make it worse I had painted an image on the mask and believe me it DID make it worse. I looked like the sinister character, The Joker, from a Batman film. However, if you would prefer to make your own mask ! rather than stick a nappy on your face - equally effective I would think - here are the instructions:- You will need:- 1 large white handkerchief 2 elastic hairbands 1 pipe cleaner (this was supposed to stiffen the nose piece but I couldn’t make it work - so I gave up. Anyone smoke a pipe?) Needle and thread or, if you can’t be bothered sewing, use iron-on hemming tape or self-adhesive carpet tape Kitchen paper Fabric paints (optional) ! INSTRUCTIONS Fold the handkerchief in three. Place each end of the folded handkerchief through a hairband and fold over. Stick or sew the folded ends down. Place a folded kitchen towel between the folds of the handkerchief to act as a removable filter.

Ta Da! ! Here’s to more good times, interesting meetings (in whatever form they may take), friendship and support in spite of these current difficult circumstances. From the Newsletter Editor Dear Members of Aberdeen U3A, What a strange year this has been, but it is heartening to see that a number of the interest groups have found ways and means of continuing classes and activities. Hopefully we will be able to meet face to face (mask to mask?) in the not too distant future. The Newsletter is taking a somewhat different form this session. It will be available online but if you wish to print it off, it should take up four double-sided A4 sheets. If you are prepared to use a large magnifying glass to read it, it can be also be printed off as an A5 booklet with two A5 pages per side. Special arrangements are being made for those members who do not possess a computer. I did threaten that if no-one contributed articles or photographs to the newsletter I would do it all myself. Fortunately I was only able to realise a small part of this threat and I hope you enjoy contributions made by people other than me. I have been giving some thought to writing a 2020 pantomime. The 2019 pantomime came off well but the great things about it were the highly enjoyable rehearsals with the cast crammed into my dining room and of course the live audience on the day of the performance. So it may to have to be a lockdown, Zoom pantomime. I will have to consider the consequences of Sleeping Beauty having to self-isolate when she wakes up or Aladdin trapped at home with a grumpy Genie. Do make the most of living in an area with easy access to beautiful parks, beaches and countryside. There have been wonderful concerts, films and plays on the BBC iPlayer, Youtube and other media platforms. I have had to learn how to use Zoom, Houseparty, Teams, Whatsapp, Skype and am now in touch with family I haven’t seen for over 50 years, childhood friends and even former pupils. I am a complete devotee of Radio 4 and find it the perfect companion to my clumsy forays into haute cuisine.

Wishing all of you the very best for the future - whatever it may bring.

Tina Stockman

CONTACTS

For more information about contacts consult the Aberdeen U3A website ‘Contacts’ page at www.u3a.org.uk/aberdeen Queries can be sent through the General Enquiries section. To contact the Membership Secretary select Membership Enquiry, giving your name and email address in the boxes shown on that page and putting your message in the space provided below them. Please add your telephone number so that the Membership Secretary can contact you.

CHAIRMAN SECRETARY TREASURER TOM SYME FIONA WATSON JOYCE McADIE

GROUPS CO-ORDINATOR

FLORENCE CAL-ANGLIA