Monaghan U3A

The U3A (university of the 3rd age) is a learning circle or cooperative of older people (55+) Members learn from one another by sharing knowledge and experiences and engaging in shared activities. For further information contact us. See bottom for contact details.

Home

U3A News 17th March 2014

Flower Arranging.
Flower arranging is starting on Tuesday 25th March at 8pm in YWCA for five sessions, (approximately every two weeks). Cost is three euro per night and flower materials will be advised in due course.

Pre Budget Submission
All U3A members are invited to attend a Pre Budget submission session which is being hosted by Age Action in the YWCA on Friday 21stat 2pm. Age Action's Eamonn Timmins will be in attendance to hear about your needs and your views on government policies that may affect you.

Trip to Mountstewart.
Saturday 10th May is the date for a trip to Mountstewart House and Gardens. The trip will include a drive along the picturesque Strangford Lough, a ferry crossing and a visit to Greyabbey. There will be a meal in Canal Court on the way home. The price of 50 euro includes bus, entry to Mount Stewart, ferry and meal. Please let us know if you are interested by texting 0873432275, giving your name and contact number or leave an envelope in the U3A box in the Age Action shop, Glaslough street,
again with name, contact number and money by 11/04/14.

Walking towards Peace Project.
U3A members have been invited to participate in the launch of the Peace project on Saturday 22nd at 10.30 in the Four Seasons. After registration and a brief launch ceremony, there will be a walk along the recently opened Canal walkway. There will be input from local historians along the way and lunch afterwards in the Four Seasons.

Here are the activities for the week commencing Monday 24th
Anyone interested in classes in Meditation, please leave your name and contact number in the Age Action shop.

Flower Arranging begins on 25th March..
Monday 24th March - Bowling in Knockatallon
Tuesday 25th March - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 26th March - Bellamount Forest, Cootehill. Meet at MCNally's Filling station, Cootehill rd. Monaghan, at ten.
Wednesday 26th March - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm.
Thursday 27th March - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10.45
Friday 28th March - Computers in the Library.

Please note, all trips and activities are for U3A members only.

U3A News 10rd March 2014

Flower Arranging.
Flower arranging is starting on Tuesday 25th March at 8pm in YWCA for five sessions, (approximately every two weeks). Please contact Flo Crawford on 0863205941 before 17th March. Cost is three euro per night and flower materials will be advised in due course.

Pre Budget Submission
All U3A members are invited to attend a Pre Budget submission session which is being hosted by Age Action's Eamonn Timmins on Friday 21st March at 2pm in the YWCA hall.He will be in attendance to hear about your needs and your views on government policies that may affect you.

Trip to Lough Derg.
A very interesting day was enjoyed by all on the Friendship Day at Lough Derg on Ash Wednesday. Despite the cold weather, we enjoyed a warm welcome there and an interesting talk by the Rev. John Dunlop

U3A Bookclub
The U3A bookclub got off the ground last Friday. A pleasant hour was spent in Graham's discussing books and drinking coffee. 'the carrier' by Sophie Hannah is the book chosen for this month. Next meeting is Friday April 11th at eleven in Graham's Coffee shop, all welcome.
Trips
Several trips are in the pipeline including a trip to Mount Stewart in May, a trip to Dublin with an historical twist, a trip to Scotland and/or the Lake District. More details in next week's edition.

Here are the activities for the week commencing Monday 17th
Anyone interested in classes in Meditation, please leave your name and contact number in the Age Action shop.

Flower Arranging begins on 25th March.
Exercise to music has come to an end. Members enjoyed eight weeks of physical exercise, thanks to Lynda for leading us in the movements.
Monday 17th March -No bowling in Knockatallon as it is St. Patrick's day.
Tuesday 18th March - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 19th March - Walkers go to Jenkin's Lake, meeting at Knockatallon school at 10am.
Wednesday 19th March - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm.
Thursday 20th March - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10.45
Friday 21st March - Computers in the Library.

Please note, all trips and activities are for U3A members only.

 

U3A News 3rd March 2014

Here are the activities for the week commencing Monday 10th
Anyone interested in classes in Meditation, please leave your name and contact number in the Age Action shop.
All interested in forming a U3A Book Club, meet Friday 7th In Graham's Coffee shop around 11.
Flower Arranging begins on 25th March.
Committee Meeting - Tuesday 11th March at 11 in YWCA hall.

Monday 10th March - Last week for exercise to music in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre, Park St.
Monday 10th March - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 11th March - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 12th March Knockmanny Forest, meeting at Tydavnet Community Centre at 10am
Wednesday 12th March - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm.
Thursday 13th March - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10.45
Friday 14th March - Computers in the Library.

Please note, all trips and activities are for U3A members only.

U3A News 24th February 2014

Here are the activities for the week commencing Monday 3rd March

Trip to Lough Derg
Ash Wednesday, March 5th is the date for a Day of Friendship & Prayer on Lough Derg. The guest speaker is Rev. John Dunlop, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church and retired minister. Admission 25 euro includes boat, tea/coffee, services and lunch. U3A has organised a bus, cost 20 euro. If you wish to go, please leave an envelope with 20 euro bus money only, name, contact number and marked Lough Derg in the box in the Age Action shop by February 28th.

Friday Speaker
Friday 28th February the speaker is Gerard Kelly, Kelly, Rahill and Co, Chartered Certified Accounts.
Talk is at 11, followed by lunch in YWCA hall.

Monday 3rd March - Exercise to music in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre, Park St, continues for two more weeks.
Monday 3rd March - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 3rd March - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 4th March No walk this week because of trip to Lough Derg.
Wednesday 4th March - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm.
Thursday 5th March - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10.45
Friday 6th March - Computers in the Library

Proposed Trips.

Several trips are in the pipeline and we will bring news of these once details are confirmed.
Saturday May 3rd is the proposed date for a trip to Mount Stewart House, Garden and Temple of the Winds. This beautiful Co. Down, National Trust property has a Spring Fete on the 3rd May which includes a car boot sale and stalls selling vintage, antiques, kitchenalia, lifestyle gifts and clothes. Music and dancing will take place on the lawn. Anyone interested in the trip, please put your name and contact number on an envelope and mark it Mount Stewart, and place it in the U3A box in the Age Action shop.

Please note, all trips and activities are for U3A members only.
Membership renewals are now due, please pay by February 28th.

 

U3A News 17th February 2014

Annual Party

Don't forget, annual party Friday 21st February, eight o'clock in Rossmore Golf Club. Cost is 10 euro for a night of chat, finger food and music.

Please note, all trips and activities are for U3A members only.
Membership renewals are now due, please pay by February 28th.

Trip to Lough Derg
Ash Wednesday, March 5th is the date for a Day of Friendship & Prayer on Lough Derg. The guest speaker is Rev. John Dunlop, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church and retired minister. Admission 25 euro includes boat, tea/coffee, services and lunch. U3A has organised a bus, cost 20 euro. If you wish to go, please leave an envelope with 20 euro bus money only, name, contact number and marked Lough Derg in the box in the Age Action shop by February 28th.

Friday Speaker
Friday 28th February the speaker is Gerard Kelly, Kelly, Rahill and Co, Chartered Certified Accounts.
Talk is at 11, followed by lunch in YWCA hall.

U3A News
Here are the activities for the week commencing Monday 24th February.

Monday24th February - Exercise to music in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre, Park St.
Monday 24th February - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 25th February - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday26th February, Bragan Walk. Meet at Penal Cross car park, 10.30.
Wednesday 26th February - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm.
Thursday 27th - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10.45
Friday 28th February -No computers in the Library as the talk is taking place.

 

U3A News 11th February 2014

Here are the activities for the week commencing Monday 17th February.

Monday17th February - Exercise to music in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre, Park St.
Monday 17th February - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 18th February - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 19th February - Ballybay Wetlands centre. Meet at 10 at McNally's Filling station, Cootehill road, Monaghan.
Wednesday 19th February - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm.
Thursday 20th - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10.45
Friday 21th February - Computers in the Library at 11.

Upcoming Activities.
Trip to Lough Derg, March 5th bus is 20euro and bus money needs to be in by the 28th with contact number etc.

Annual party will be in Rossmore golf club on Friday 21st February numbers are needed for party by 19th, cost 10euro.

Please note, all trips and activities are for U3A members only. Membership renewals are now due, please pay by February 28th.

Trip to the Dail.
On Wednesday 5th February over seventy U3A members visited the Dail. A very interesting day ensued. We were welcomed by Heather Humphries and then had a Q/A session with Kathleen Lynch, Minister of State for Older People. We were then given an informative tour of the Dail. A meal in the Coach Inn, Castleblaney completed an enjoyable day.

U3A News 3rd February 2014

Trip to Lough Derg.
A Friendship day trip to Lough Derg is organised for members on Ash Wednesday, March 5th. Anyone interested in the trip, please leave your name and contact number in the U3A box in the Age Action shop. Please mark it Lough Derg.

U3A Bookclub.
Any members, male or female, interested in forming a book club, please leave your name and contact number in the U3A box. Please mark it Bookclub.

Here are the activities for the week commencing Monday 10th February.

Monday10th February - Exercise to music in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre, Park St.
Monday 10th February - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 11th February - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 12th February - Gosford forest park. Meet at 10 at Lidl car park.
Wednesday 12th February - Card playing in Ballinode HALL AT 8PM.
Thursday 13th - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10.45
Friday14th February - Computers in the Library at 11.

Upcoming Activities.

As we approach Valentine's night, there will be a Beauty night for members.
Further nights in the pipeline will include a Craft night, Patchwork quilting and card making. Gardening will begin some time in April and hopefully will include garden visits.
Flower Arranging will recommence on 25th March for five weeks in the YMCA hall.
Annual party will be in Rossmore golf club on Friday 21st February.
Committee meeting will take place on Tuesday 11th in YWCA.

Please note, all trips and activities are for U3A members only.

U3A News 27th January 2014

Visit to Dail.
Money for this trip, Wednesday February 5,th is to be left in the U3A box in the Age Action shop by Friday 31st January. The bus will leave Maggie Charlie's at 8.45 and Lidl at 9.00. Total cost is 30 euro. Please leave exact money in an envelope, with your name and contact number, in the U3A box in the Age Action shop in Glaslough street.

Monthly Lunch Meeting.
Friday 31st is the date for our monthly lunch meeting. The speaker is Margaret Mallon, Advanced Nurse Practitioner. She will be speaking on general matters of health and the health system.

New activity - Exercise to music.
U3A members are participating in this activity organised by Monaghan Sports Partnership as part of their "Active Adult Programme". An 8 week course given by a qualified instructor started on Monday 20th January in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre Park Street at a cost of €20 per person.
This is on a first come basis and you must fill in the registration form which is available in the Age Action shop. Contact Mary in the shop on 047/75942.

Trip to Lough Derg.
A Friendship day trip to Lough Derg is organised for members on Ash Wednesday, March 5th. Anyone interested in the trip, please leave your name and contact number in the U3A box in the Age Action shop. Please mark it Lough Derg.

U3A Bookclub.
Any members, male or female, interested in forming a book club, please leave your name and contact number in the U3A box. Please mark it Bookclub.

Here are the activities for the week commencing Monday 3rd February.
Monday 3rd February - Exercise to music in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre, Park St.
Monday 3rd February - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 4th February - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 5th February - No walking this week as we are going to the Dail.
Thursday 6th - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10:45am
Wednesday 3rd February - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm

Upcoming Activities.
As we approach Valentine's night, there will be a Beauty night for members.
Further nights in the pipeline will include a Craft night, Patchwork quilting and card making. Gardening will begin some time in April and hopefully will include garden visits.
Flower Arranging will recommence on 25th March for five weeks in the YMCA hall.
Computers begins again on Friday 7th February at 11 in the Library.
Annual party will be in Rossmore golf club on Friday 21st February.
Committee meeting will take place on Tuesday 11th in YWCA.

Please note, all trips and activities are for U3A members only.

U3A News 20th January 2014

Visit to Dail.
Wednesday, February 5th will see us visiting the Dail. The bus will leave Maggie Charlie's at 8.45 and Lidl at 9.00. We will be meeting the Minister at 3.00, so there will be plenty of time for shopping/cultural activities in the morning. There is a meal in Castleblaney on the way home. Total cost is 30 euro. Please leave exact money in an envelope, with your name and contact number, in the U3A box in the Age Action shop in Glaslough street.

Monthly Lunch Meeting.

This will take place on Friday 31st. The speaker is Margaret Mallon, Nurse Manager in Cavan hospital. She will be speaking on general matters of health and the health system.

New activity - Exercise to music.
U3A members have been invited to participate in this activity organised by Monaghan Sports Partnership as part of their "Active Adult Programme". An 8 week course given by a qualified instructor started on Monday 20th January in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre Park Street at a cost of €20 per person.
This is on a first come basis and you must fill in the registration form which is available at the AGM or in the Age Action shop. Contact Mary in the shop on 047/75942.

Here are the activities for the week commencing January 20th
Monday 20th January - Exercise to music in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre, Park St.
Monday 20th January - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 21st January - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 29th January - Walking in Lough Muckno, Castleblaney. Meet at the Hope Castle gate entrance at 10:30 am.
Thursday 23rd - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10:45am
Wednesday 22nd January - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm

 

U3A News 13th January 2014

AGM
Monaghan U3A hold their AGM on Thursday 16 January at 2.30pm in the YWCA building. Registration for new and existing members will take place from 2pm. After reports from outgoing officers and a talk on U3A principles a new committee for 2014 will be elected. There will also be an update on all present and planned activities. Come along and have your say! Refreshments will be provided.
New activity - Exercise to music.
U3A members have been invited to participate in this activity organised by Monaghan Sports Partnership as part of their "Active Adult Programme". An 8 week course given by a qualified instructor starts on Monday 20th January in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre Park Street at a cost of €20 per person.
This is on a first come basis and you must fill in the registration form which will be available at the AGM or in the Age Action shop. Contact Mary in the shop on 047/75942.
Here are the activities for the week commencing January 20th
Monday 20th January - Exercise to music in St Joseph's Pastoral Centre, Park St.
Monday 20th January - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 21st January - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 22nd January - Walking in Rossmore Forest Park. Meet at the Threemilehouse Road entrance at 10:30 am.
Thursday 23rd - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout from 10:45am
Wednesday 22nd January - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm
Also keep in mind
Wednesday 5nd February - Trip to Dublin with tour of Leinster House - Details at the AGM

 

U3A News 6th January 2014

U3A looking forward to a new start
Monaghan U3A will hold their AGM on Thursday 16 January at 2.30pm in the YWCA. The main business will be to elect a committee for the year and decide on a range of activities. Come along and have your say! New faces are needed so if you know someone who could help or if you would like to be a member of the committee make sure a nomination is with Secretary John O'Hare before January 10th. Members can download and print nomination forms from the U3A website and require 2 member signatures and the nominee's consent.
Here are the activities for the week commencing January 13th
Monday 13th January - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45pm
Tuesday 14th January - Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 2:30pm
Wednesday 15th January - Walking in Dartrey Estate, Rockcorry. Meet at McNally's Filling Station, Drumbear at 10:00 am.
Wednesday 15th January - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm
Thursday 16nd January - AGM in the YWCA at 2.30pm.
Also keep in mind
Wednesday 5nd February - Trip to Dublin with tour of Leinster House

U3A News 30th December 2013

A Happy New Year to all U3A members
We hope 2014 will be another successful year for Monaghan U3A and look forward to kicking off with our AGM which is planned for Thursday 16 January at 2.30pm in the YWCA. Try to come along and have your say! The main business is to elect a committee for the year and new faces are needed. If you know someone who could help or if you would like to be a member of the committee make sure a nomination is with Secretary John O'Hare before January 10th. Members can download and print nomination forms from the U3A website and require 2 member signatures and the nominee's consent.
Here are some dates for your 2014 diary:
Monday 6th January - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45
Wednesday 8th January - Walking in Emyvale, meeting at the Enterprise Centre at 10:30am.
Wednesday 8th January - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm
Thursday 2nd and 9th January - Coffee in "Savoir Faire" at the Armagh road roundabout
Thursday 16nd January - AGM in the YWCA at 2.30pm.
Wednesday 5nd February - Trip to Dublin with tour of Leinster House

U3A News 16th December 2013

A Happy Christmas to all U3A members
All U3A activities have been suspended over the Festive Season so that members can dedicate themselves to perfecting the skills of gluttony and drunkenness! Those who survive until January can look forward the following activities:

Monday 6th - Bowling in Knockatallon at 7:45
Wednesday 8th - Walking in Emyvale, meeting at the Enterprise Centre at 10:30am.
Wednesday 8th - Card playing in Ballinode Hall at 8pm
Thursday 2nd and 9th - Meet for coffee in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout

News for the New Year
A new committee will be elected at our AGM in the YWCA on Thursday 16 January at 2.30pm and committee members must be nominated in writing. Everyone can play their part by nominating members they wish to see on committee. Members can download and print nomination forms from the U3A website and make sure that they are with Secretary John O'Hare before January 10th. Nominations require 2 member signatures and nominee's consent.
Visit to Dail Eireann
Keep Wednesday 5th February free for a visit to Leinster House. Local TD Heather Humphries has arranged for us to meet Minister Kathleen Lynch at 3pm and following that to have a tour of the Dail and Seanad at 3:30pm approximately. A programme for the morning will be announced shortly.

U3A News 9th December 2013

The U3A is taking a Yuletide break!
Walking Group
Our walking group has suspended its activities until Wednesday January 8th. The venue for that day's walk will be announced in due course. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.
Bowling.
The last bowling of 2013 will take place in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon on Monday 16th at 7:45pm and will re-commence after the Christmas break on Monday January 6th. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Spoken French classes will re-commence in Ballinode Hall early in 2014. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 for more information.
Card playing in Ballinode Hall will re-commence on Wednesday January 8th.
Coffee mornings. Apart from 26th December we will continue to meet every Thursday morning throughout the Christmas period in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a coffee and a chat any time from 10:45am.
Computer workshops will re-commence in the library early in 2014. For details contact Mick on 086/8598170.
2014 News
Our AGM takes place in the YWCA on Thursday 16 January at 2.30pm. All nominations for incoming committee are to be with Secretary John O'Hare before January 10th. Nominations require 2 member signatures and nominee's consent. Members can download and print nomination forms by clicking on this link: NOMINATION FORM
Visit to Dail Eireann
Keep Wednesday 5th February free for a visit to Leinster House. Local TD Heather Humphries has arranged for us to meet Minister Kathleen Lynch at 3pm and following that to have a tour of the Dail and Seanad at 3:30pm approximately. A programme for the morning will be announced shortly.

U3A News 2nd December 2013

Monthly Lunch Meeting
At our Monthly Lunch Meeting in the YWCA last Friday, Noel Carney, from the Dartrey Heritage Association gave us a very informative talk on the restoration projects currently under way in both Dartrey and Rossmore. Our thanks go to him and also to Lizzie and the team who, as usual, served up a very tasty meal.
General meeting
A general meeting of U3A members was held in the YWCA on Tuesday 26th. 31 of our 160 members attended and the following matters were discussed:
* An overview of October's successful conference was given. Members were informed that the event was successful financially and that the support by local members was very important on the day.
* It was agreed to accept the invitation by local TD Heather Humphreys to visit Dáil Éireann early in 2014 to meet Minister Kathleen Lynch and have a guided tour of Leinster House.
* It was decided to hold our AGM in the YWCA on Thursday 16 January at 2.30pm. All nominations for incoming committee are to be with Secretary John O'Hare before January 10th. Nominations require 2 member signatures and nominee's consent.
* It was agreed to check out options for a social get together in early February next and a series of speakers for the next lot of 2014 lunches was agreed.
* Members were informed of discussions taking place nationally, organised by Age Action, about a future organisation structure for the U3A.
* Current activities were outlined and several new activities were proposed and these will be followed up with members.
Walking Group
Our walking group intends to visit Lough Muckno on Wednesday December 11th meeting at the gates of Hope Castle at 10:30am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website. This is a fairly easy walk made even more enjoyable by a visit to Eileen's Tea Rooms.
Regular U3A activities and classes
Bowling takes place every Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Spoken French classes every Tuesday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Card playing. Every Wednesday in Ballinode Hall at 8pm we have a casual game of "45s"
Coffee mornings. Every Thursday morning members meet in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a coffee and a chat any time from 10:45am.
Computer workshops resume in the Library at 11am on Friday December 6th. For details contact Mick on 086/8598170.

U3A News 25th November 2013

Monthly Lunch Meeting
This Friday 29th November, Noel Carney, Chairman of Dartrey Heritage Association will be in the YWCA to give us a talk on both the Dartrey and Rossmore estates. Lunch will be provided after the meeting by Lizzie and her team in the YWCA - cost €5.
Walking Group
On Wednesday December 4th the walking group takes to the hills. They will tackle the Bragan Walk meeting at the Penal Cross at 10:30am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website. The views on this walk are just fantastic so come along and get some exercise before the winter festivities kick off!
Regular U3A activities and classes
Bowling takes place every Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Spoken French classes every Tuesday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Card playing. Every Wednesday in Ballinode Hall at 8pm we have a casual game of "45s"
Coffee mornings. Every Thursday morning members meet in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a coffee and a chat any time from 10:45am.
Computer workshops. There will be no computer workshop this Friday 29th due to our monthly lunch meeting however we will resume in the Library at 11am on December 6th. For details contact Mick on 086/8598170.

U3A News 18th November 2013

General Meeting
Remember! A meeting for all U3A members will be held in the YWCA on Tuesday next 26th at 2.30 pm. We want to hear your views on a New Year get together; a trip to Leinster House towards the end of January; arranging an AGM for 2014; things to do in 2014 and anything else members want to air. Please try to attend.
Monthly Lunch Meeting
Friday 29th November is the date of our next Monthly lunch meeting in the YWCA. Noel Carney, Chairman of Dartrey Heritage Association will be along to give us a talk on both the Dartrey and Rossmore estates. Lunch will be provided after the meeting by Lizzie and her team in the YWCA.
Flower Arranging
The next flower arranging class will be on Tuesday 26th November at 8pm in the YWCA.
Walking Group
Next week's walk is a little nearer to home. On Wednesday November 27th the group will explore Rossmore Forest Park, meeting at the Threemilehouse Road entrance at 10:30am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website. This walk is not strenuous and new walkers are always welcome.
Regular U3A activities and classes
Bowling takes place every Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Spoken French classes every Tuesday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Card playing. Every Wednesday in Ballinode Hall at 8pm we have a casual game of "45s"
Coffee mornings. Every Thursday morning members meet in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a coffee and a chat any time from 10:45am.
Computer workshops every Friday at 11am in the Library where we learn from each other in a relaxed atmosphere. There is no charge; just turn up or contact Mick on 086/8598170.

U3A News 11th November 2013

General Meeting
A general meeting of U3A members will be held on Tuesday 26th November at 2.30pm in YWCA. Tea/coffee will be provided and we look forward to all members being there to consider next year's activities and any other issues members may wish to raise.
Monthly Lunch Meeting
Friday 29th November is the date of our next Monthly lunch meeting in the YWCA. Noel Carney, Chairman of Dartrey Heritage Association will be along to give us a talk on both the Dartrey and Rossmore estates.
Flower Arranging
The next flower arranging class will be on Tuesday 26th November at 8pm in the YWCA.
Walking. On Wednesday November 20th the walking group travels to Cootehill to the beautiful Bellamont Estate, meeting at the McNally's Filling Station on the Cootehill road at 10:00am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website. The walks are not strenuous and new walkers are always welcome.
Regular U3A activities and classes
Bowling takes place every Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Spoken French classes every Tuesday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Card playing. Every Wednesday in Ballinode Hall at 8pm we have a casual game of "45s"
Coffee mornings. Every Thursday morning members meet in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a coffee and a chat any time from 10:45am.
Computer workshops every Friday at 11am in the Library where we learn from each other in a relaxed atmosphere. There is no charge; just turn up or contact Mick on 086/8598170.

U3A News 4th November 2013

Trip to Belfast
The coach up for the U3A trip to Belfast on Tuesday November 12th will leave Maggie's Bar in Ballinode at 8:15am and the Lidl car park at 8:30am. For more details call Ann on 087/2779070.
Monthly lunch meeting
Keep Friday 29th November free for our next Monthly lunch meeting in the YWCA. We hope to have Noel Carney, Chairman of Dartrey Heritage Association to give us a talk on both the Dartrey and Rossmore estates.
Regular U3A activities and classes
Bowling takes place every Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Spoken French classes every Tuesday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Walking. On Wednesday November 13th the walking group heads to Parkanure Forest Park near Ballygawly meeting at the Corracrin Chapel car park at 10:00am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website. New walkers are always welcome.
Card playing. Every Wednesday in Ballinode Hall at 8pm we have a casual game of "45s". Come along for the craic!
Coffee mornings. Every Thursday morning members meet in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a coffee and a chat any time from 10:45am.
Computer workshops in the Library this Friday and every Friday at 11am where we learn from each other in a relaxed atmosphere. There is no charge; just turn up or contact Mick on 086/8598170.

 

U3A News 28th October 2013

Trip to Belfast
Remember Saturday November 2nd is the last day to sign up for the U3A trip to Belfast on November 12th as we need to have accurate numbers by then to book both the Titanic Exhibition and Stormont. Members wishing to book should leave €40 in an envelope in the Age Action shop to cover bus, entrance fees and meal. Please mark your name and mobile number on the envelope. For more details call Ann on 087/2779070.
Christmas meal & theatre
Plans are being hatched to go out for a meal and attend a show in the Garage Theatre on November 29th. Members will receive details by text very soon.
Monthly lunch meeting
Last Friday's lunch meeting was well attended and our thanks go to Joe Shannon from Birdwatch Ireland who gave us a great talk which was followed by lunch provided as usual by Lizzie and her team in the YWCA.
Regular U3A activities and classes
Bowling takes place every Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Spoken French classes every Tuesday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Walking. On Wednesday November 6th the walking group tackles the Esh Forest Walk in Knockatallon meeting at the Mass Rock car park at 10:30am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website. New walkers are always welcome.
Card playing. Every Wednesday in Ballinode Hall at 8pm we have a casual game of "45s". Come along for the craic!
Coffee mornings. Every Thursday morning members meet in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a coffee and a chat any time from 10:45am.
Computer workshops resume in the Library this Friday and every Friday at 11am where we learn from each other in a relaxed atmosphere. There is no charge; just turn up or contact Mick on 086/8598170.

U3A News 21st October 2013

Monthly lunch meeting
This Friday October 25th Joe Shannon from Birdwatch Ireland will give a talk at the U3A monthly lunch meeting in the YWCA at 11am. The talk will be followed by a lunch provided as usual by Lizzie and her team at the YWCA - cost €5. We hope to have a good turnout to listen to Joe share his vast knowledge of our feathered friends.
October conference
About 170 delegates attended the U3A conference entitled "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years" last Thursday in the Four Seasons Hotel. The event was a huge success and we were very well looked after by all the hotel staff. A full report appears in this week's Northern Standard newspaper. U3A would like to thank the conference sponsors: Age Action Ireland, Monaghan County Council, HSE Monaghan (service for older persons programme), Monaghan Credit Union, Permanent TSB and AIB. Thanks also to those who provided spot prizes for the raffle: Specsavers, Busy Bee Ceramics, Tesco, McArdle Computers, Dunnes Stores, Flemings and Bank of Ireland. The conference ended with a one-act play called "He said - She said" excellently performed by the Market House players and a choral recital by the Oriel Singers - Our thanks to all who performed. A special word of thanks also goes to our speakers and to the group of U3A members who worked so hard to ensure the success of the event.
Trip to Belfast
A trip to Belfast has been planned for Tuesday November 12th visiting the Titanic Exhibition and Stormont. The coach will leave Maggie's Bar in Ballinode at 8:15am and the Lidl car park at 8:30am. The cost is €40 including bus, admission and a three course meal on the way home. Members wishing to book should leave €40 in an envelope the Age Action shop before Saturday November 2nd. Remember to mark your name and mobile number on the envelope. For more details call Ann on 087/2779070.
Current U3A activities and classes
Bowling there will be no bowling next Monday October 28th due to the Bank Holiday but we will resume the following Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Spoken French classes every Tuesday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Flower arranging starts in the YWCA on Tuesday October 29th. To book call Flo on 086/3205941 and she will let you know what materials you need to bring to the class.
Walking. On Wednesday October 30th the walking group meets at Tydavnet Community Centre at 10am for a trip to St Patrick's Chair and Well. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website. New walkers are always welcome.
Card playing. Every Wednesday in Ballinode Hall at 8pm we have a casual game of "45s". Come along for the craic!
Coffee mornings continue every Thursday morning in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a chat from 10:45am.
Computer workshops. There will be no computer class in the Library this Friday 25th due to our lunch meeting but normal service will be resumed on Friday Nov 1st at 11am

U3A News 14th October 2013

Monthly lunch meeting
Our next monthly lunch meeting is scheduled for Friday October 25th. Joe Shannon from Birdwatch Ireland will give a talk at 11am in the YWCA and this will be followed by a lunch provided as usual by Lizzie and her team.
Card playing
Now that the nights are getting shorter the weekly card playing resumes on Wednesday 23rd in Ballinode Hall at 8pm. The game is "45s" and we don't take it too seriously so even if you've never played, come along for the craic and some of the more experienced members will soon show you the ropes.
Trip to Belfast
Ann is busy organising a trip to Belfast on Tuesday November 12th visiting the Titanic Exhibition and Stormont. This all-day trip will cost €40 including bus, admission and a meal on the way home. For more details see next week's notes or call Ann on 087/2779070.
October conference
A full report on the "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years" conference will appear next week.
Current U3A activities and classes
Walking. On Wednesday October 23rd the walking group is heading to Castleblayney for the Lough Muckno walk meeting at the castle gates at 10:30am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.
Spoken French classes have been moved from Mondays and in future will take place each Tuesday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Flower arranging starts in the YWCA on Tuesday October 29th and take place every second Tuesday at 8pm. Places are limited. To book call Flo on 086/3205941 and she will let you know what materials you need to bring to the class.
Computer workshops are held each Friday at 11am in the Monaghan branch library on the North Road. These are held in a very relaxed atmosphere where we try to answer the individual needs of members regarding the basics of computer use.
Coffee mornings continue every Thursday morning in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a chat from 10:45am.
Bowling takes place every Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726

 

U3A News 7th October 2013

 

October conference
This Friday October 11th is the last day to register for the "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years" conference in The Four Seasons Hotel, on Thursday 17th October. Cost of the conference is €20 including lunch and refreshments, but members of Monaghan U3A can avail of a reduced rate of €10. To register just leave an envelope with €10 enclosed in the U3A box in the Age Action shop in Glaslough Street. Remember to write your name and telephone number on the outside of the envelope.
Current U3A activities and classes
Walking. On Wednesday October 9th the walking group are going to the very beautiful Knockmanny Forest in County Tyrone, meeting at Tydavnet Community Centre at 10:00am to share transport. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.
Spoken French classes take place each Monday at 2.30pm in Ballinode Hall. Call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place.
Flower arranging starts in the YWCA on Tuesday October 29th and take place every second Tuesday at 8pm. Places are limited. To book call Flo on 086/3205941 and she will let you know what materials you need to bring to the class.
Computer workshops each Friday at 11am in the Monaghan branch library on the North Road teach the basics of the internet, email etc.
Coffee mornings take place every Thursday morning in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a chat from 10:45am.
Bowling occurs every Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Monthly lunch meeting
Keep Friday October 25th free for our next monthly lunch meeting. Joe Shannon from Birdwatch Ireland will be along to talk about our feathered friends, their song and their habits, and how we can help feed them over the winter period.

U3A News 30thSeptember 2013

Proposed classes
Some classes are starting shortly - Spoken French begins in Ballinode Hall on Monday 7th October at 2.30pm call Eamonn on 087/9186567 to book your place. - Flower arranging will start in the YWCA on Tuesday October 29th and take place every second Tuesday at 8pm. Places are limited. To book call Flo on 086/3205941 and she will let you know what materials you need to bring to the class. - Digital photography classes will be arranged if there is sufficient demand. Contact Malcolm on 087/2576881 if you are interested.
October conference
Remember to register before October 11th if you wish to attend the "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years" conference in The Four Seasons Hotel, on Thursday 17th October. A detailed programme for this event can be viewed on our website. Cost of the conference is €20 including lunch and refreshments but members of Monaghan U3A can avail of a reduced rate of €10. To register just leave an envelope with €10 enclosed in the U3A box in the Age Action shop in Glaslough Street. Remember to write your name and telephone number on the outside of the envelope.
Walking Group: On Wednesday October 9th the walking group are heading to Knockatallon, meeting at the Mass Rock car park at 10:30am before tackling the Rock Walk. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.
Computer classes
The computer workshops continue each Friday at 11am in the Monaghan branch library on the North Road. Come along and learn the basics of the internet, email etc.
Coffee mornings
These informal gatherings take place every Thursday morning in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Drop in and join us for a chat from 10:45am.
Bowling:
Bowling takes place each Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Monthly lunch meeting
Keep Friday October 25th free for our next monthly lunch meeting. Joe Shannon from Birdwatch Ireland will be along to talk about our feathered friends, their song and their habits, and how we can help feed them over the winter period.

U3A News 23rd September 2013

October conference
Remember it is essential to register before October 11th if you wish to attend the U3A conference in The Four Seasons Hotel, on Thursday 17th October. The theme for the conference is "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years" and a detailed programme for this event can be viewed on our website. The cost of the conference is €20 including lunch and refreshments but members of Monaghan U3A can avail of a reduced rate of €10. To register just leave an envelope with €10 enclosed in the U3A box in the Age Action shop in Glaslough Street. Remember to write your name and telephone number on the outside of the envelope.
Walking Group: On Wednesday October 2nd the walking group meet at the Emyvale Enterprise Centre at 10:30am for a walk around Emy Lake. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.
Proposed classes
A number of classes are being planned over the winter. Flower arranging is taking place in the YWCA starting Tuesday October 29th - more details next week. Members interested in learning conversational French should text Eamonn on 087/9186567 and those interested in digital photography should text Malcolm on 087/2576881. The days and venue for these classes have yet to be confirmed - watch this space for more courses coming up shortly.
Computer classes
The computer workshops continue this Friday at 11am in the Monaghan branch library on the North Road. We try to address individual needs as far as possible and there is no charge. Call Mick on 086/8598170 to book a place.
Coffee mornings
These informal gatherings take place every Thursday morning in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Everyone is welcome so drop in and join us from 10:45am.
Bowling:
Bowling takes place each Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726
Monthly lunch meeting
Last Friday in the YWCA Maurice Moriarty gave a very interesting talk on "Researching your family tree". Maurice demonstrated a vast knowledge of his subject and gave us a very useful 4-page hand-out which you can access via the following link: http://www.picturesofireland.ie/U3A_Moriarty_notes.htm . Those wishing to avail of Maurice's expertise can contact him on 087/6609527 or visit his website www.irishdescent.ie. Thanks to Lizzie and her team for providing us with an excellent lunch as usual.
Membership
To clear up any confusion, membership fees for the incoming year are not due until January 1st and cover the calendar year 2014. Members who have renewed in recent weeks and any new members joining between now and the New Year will be paid up until December 2014.

 

U3A News 16th September 2013

Monthly lunch meeting
This Friday September 20th is the date for the first of the new season's monthly lunch meetings. Genealogist Maurice Moriarty will give us a talk on "Researching your family tree" at 11am in the YWCA. The talk will be followed by lunch at 12pm provided by Lizzie and her team - cost €5. So if you enjoy watching "Who do you think you are" come and listen to Maurice tell you how to start your own family research. We would like that as many members as possible stay for the lunch afterwards to help support the YWCA team who look after us so well.
Walking Group:On Wednesday September 25th the walking group head for Gosford Forest Park near Markethill County Armagh. Gosford has proved to be one of our most enjoyable walking venues over the past few years. The group hope to meet up in the Lidl car park at 10am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.
October conference
Plans for our all-island conference in The Four Seasons Hotel, Monaghan Town on Thursday 17th October are now well advanced and a detailed programme for this event can be viewed on our website. The theme for the conference is "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years". U3A groups from all over Ireland have expressed an interest in attending and we hope as many local members as possible will be there to welcome them. The cost of the conference is €20 including lunch and refreshments but members of Monaghan U3A can avail of a reduced rate of €10. To register just leave an envelope with €10 enclosed in the U3A box in the Age Action shop in Glaslough Street. Remember to write your name and telephone number on the outside of the envelope.
French Classes
Very shortly we hope to start a series of classes in conversational French. The days and venue for these classes have yet to be confirmed so if you're interested call Eamonn on 087/9186567 for details.
Computer classes
Due to our monthly lunch meeting there will be no computer class this week. These will resume the following Friday 27th at 11am in the Monaghan branch library at the North Road. Call Mick on 086/8598170 to book a place.
Coffee mornings
These informal gatherings take place every Thursday morning in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Armagh road roundabout. Everyone is welcome so drop in and join us from 10:45am.
Bowling: Our new bowling season is now under way and members will be made most welcome any Monday at 7:45pm in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726

U3A News 7th September 2013

Bowling: Our new bowling season began on September 9th.. As a little help to improve our technique and enjoyment of bowling it is hoped to have trainers on hand to give some guidance and tips on Monday 16th at the usual venue in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel. Come along and try your hand, you will be made most welcome. Remember – bowling each Monday at 7:45pm. at the Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726

Walking Group: On September 18th the walking group visits the fabulous Jenkins Lake area – located adjacent to the Cooneen Ghost House!! Several additions to the walking facilities at Jenkins have been recently completed by the local development group. Walkers meeting at Knockatallon School at 10 am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.

Major conference in October: As a contribution to the Gathering Ireland 2013, Monaghan U3A is hosting a significant all-island conference in The Four Seasons Hotel, Monaghan Town on Thursday 17th October. The theme for the conference is “Positive Living in the Third Age – Enhancing the Golden Years”. It is hoped to have a strong cross border U3A presence there and that many of our own membership – now in excess of 140 – will also be in attendance. A detailed programme for this event is now on our website.

Computer classes: The computer workshops have resumed and continue each Friday at 11 am in the Monaghan branch library at the North Road. As before these workshops are informal and unstructured. Even if you’ve never switched on a computer, come along and have a go! Call Mick on 086/8598170 to book a place.

Coffee mornings: Because of the computer classes on Friday mornings, as from September 12th our coffee mornings have been switched to Thursdays. These informal gatherings have proved to be very enjoyable and everyone is welcome. Come along and join us from 10:45am in the “Savoir Faire” Coffee Shop, Maurice Grahams Hardware, Armagh road roundabout.

YWCA – talk and lunch: Our monthly Friday lunches resume again on the 20th of September. As ever we will be hosted by Lizzie and her team at the YWCA premises on the North Road. For this our first lunch of the new season we will be joined by Maurice Moriarty who will talk on “ researching your family tree” –giving us guidance and tips about the how, what and where of research sources. Maurice’s talk will start at 11 am and will be followed by lunch at 12 noon. Lunch cost – payable to YWCA – is €5.

 

U3A News 2nd September 2013

Bowling
Starting on September 9th we have bowling in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel every Monday at 7:45pm. Come along and try your hand, you will be made most welcome. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726

Walking Group
On September 11th the walking group visits the beautiful Dartrey Estate at Rockcorry. Walkers should meet at McNally's Filling Station on the Cootehill Road at 10:00am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.

Monthly Lunch Meeting
The first of this season's monthly lunch meetings is scheduled for Friday September 20th at 11am in the YWCA. As usual we will avail of Lizzie's hospitality. The speaker will be confirmed in next week's notes.

Major conference in October
As a contribution to the Gathering Ireland 2013, Monaghan U3A is hosting a significant all-island conference in The Four Seasons Hotel, Monaghan on the 17th October. The theme for the conference is "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years". A detailed programme for this event is now on our website. Have a look to see the exciting line-up of speakers.

Computer classes
The computer workshops start on September 13th in Monaghan Library. As before these workshops are informal and unstructured. Even if you've never switched on a computer, come along and have a go! Call Mick on 086/8598170 to book a place.

Coffee mornings
Because of the computer classes on Friday mornings, as from September 12th our coffee mornings have been switched to Thursdays. These informal gatherings have proved to be very enjoyable and everyone is welcome. Come along and join us from 10:45am in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop.

 

U3A News 26th August2013

U3A trip to Dublin
Last Saturday's trip to Dublin was very enjoyable. The guided tours of Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House most interesting and the meal in Watters Olde Coach Inn was delicious. Our thanks go to Ann for all her hard work in arranging a wonderful day out. We all agreed that more trips are needed so if any member has an idea of somewhere we should go together, Ann would love to hear from you. You'll find her at 087/2779070.

Bowling
Starting on September 9th it's back to bowling in the Sliabh Beagh Hotel every Monday at 7:45pm. If you haven't tried bowling before come along; you will be made most welcome. For more information call Gerard on 086/8353726

Walking Group
Get your walking boots out again! Summer's over and the regular Wednesday morning walks start on September 4th in Rossmore Forest Park, meeting at the Threemilehouse gates at 10:30am. For more information call Mary on 087/6838445 or visit our website.

Computer classes
The computer workshops recommence on September 13th in Monaghan Library. As before these workshops are informal and unstructured. We will try to help with whatever you want to know or are having difficulty with, on a one to one basis. Thanks to our friends in the library there is no charge for these workshops. If you're interested in taking part call Mick on 086/8598170.

Coffee mornings
Our Friday morning coffee mornings were originally arranged to fill the void left when the computer classes ceased in April. These informal gatherings in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop have proved to be very popular so perhaps we should arrange to continue over the winter on a different morning. No doubt this will be discussed over a cuppa this Friday.

Clones Lunch
U3A members have been invited to lunch event in the Cuil Darach, Clones on Tuesday 1st October. This event is free, funded by the International Fund for Ireland to celebrate the International Day of Older Persons. Everyone over 55 is welcome but booking is essential so call Sinead Keenan on 042 9749500 or email [email protected] to book your place.

U3A News 19th August2013

Walking Group
The regular Wednesday morning walks restart on September 4th in Rossmore Forest Park, meeting at the Threemilehouse gates at 10:30am. All venues and times for this season's walks are now up on our website.

U3A trip to Dublin
All who have booked to go on the U3A trip to Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House on Saturday August 24th should note that the bus will leave Maggie's Bar, Ballinode at 8:45 picking up at Lidl car park in Monaghan at 9:00am

Clones Lunch
The International Day of Older Persons takes place on Tuesday 1st October and U3A members have been invited to a lunch event in the Cuil Darach, Clones. The event is open to everyone over 55 and is free but booking is essential. BOOK EARLY as places are on a first come basis. To book or find out more ring Sinead Keenan on 042 9749500 or email [email protected]. This event is funded by the International Fund for Ireland.

Computer classes and Coffee mornings
The computer workshops will be starting up again later in September and those interested in taking part should contact Mick at 086/8598170.

Coffee mornings
U3A members meet in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Coolshanagh Roundabout, Armagh Road every Friday about 10:45 for coffee and chat. Everyone welcome.

U3A News 12th August2013

U3A trip to Dublin
All who have booked to go on the U3A trip to Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House on Saturday August 24th should note that the bus will leave Maggie's Bar, Ballinode at 8:45 picking up at Lidl car park in Monaghan at 9:00am

Walking Group
The regular Wednesday morning rambles start again on September 4th with a walk in Rossmore Forest Park, meeting at the Threemilehouse gates at 10:30am. All venues and times for this seasons walks are now up on our website.

Computer classes and Coffee mornings
The computer workshops will be starting up again later in September and those interested in taking part should contact Mick at 086/8598170. Until these classes start we are spending our Friday mornings sipping coffee in the "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Coolshanagh Roundabout, Armagh Road. We meet about 10:45 and spend some time sorting out the ills of the world! Drop in and have your say.

 

U3A News 5th August2013

 

U3A trip to Dublin
Next Thursday August 15th is the last day to book for the U3A outing to Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House. This trip takes place on Saturday August 24th and costs €40 per person including transport, entrance fees and a four course evening meal. To book your place leave €40 in an envelope in the designated box in the Age Action Shop, Glaslough Street. Please make sure to mark your name and mobile phone number on the envelope as pick-up points will be notified by text.

Coffee mornings
Our regular coffee morning takes place this Friday as usual at 10:45am in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Coolshannagh Roundabout, Armagh Road.

Trip to Carlow
Members are reminded that booking for the 4 day trip to Carlow on August 19th must be made before this Saturday August 10th. This trip is not being organised by U3A but a number of members intend to travel. The cost of €220 includes 3 nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast and entrance to various attractions and a day trip to Kilkenny City. For further details or to book a place contact Ann on 047/89831

Walking Group
Summer is flying past and it will soon be time to restart our regular Wednesday morning rambles. September 4th will be the first walk of the new season.

U3A News 29th July 2013

Digital Photography

It's time to remind all those who participated in our digital photography course that next Wednesday 7th is the last day to enter your pictures for Tydavnet Show. You can pick up a show schedule free in most newsagents or view it online at www.tydavnetshow.ie You can download entry forms from the site so why not have a go?
U3A trip to Dublin

Don't forget to book your place on the U3A trip to Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House on Saturday August 24th by leaving €40 in an envelope in the designated box in the Age Action Shop, Glaslough Street. Remember to mark your name and mobile phone number on the envelope.
Coffee mornings

Our regular coffee morning takes place this Friday as usual at 10:45am in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Coolshannagh Roundabout, Armagh Road.
Trip to Carlow

All U3A members have also been invited to join a group heading for a 4 day trip to Carlow on August 19th. Contact Ann on 047/89831 for more information

U3A News 22nd July 2013

U3A trip to Dublin
Our coach trip to Dublin has been arranged for Saturday August 24th. We hope to leave Monaghan at 9am and will visit both Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House. A tour of both of these historic buildings has been arranged and it promises to be a very interesting day. Cost is €40 per person which includes transport, entrance fees and a four course evening meal before returning home about 8pm. To book your place leave €40 in an envelope in the designated box in the Age Action Shop, Glaslough Street. Please make sure to mark your name and mobile phone number on the envelope as pick-up points will be notified by text.

Coffee mornings
This Friday 26th July at 10:45am we meet as usual in "Savoir Faire" Coffee Shop at the Coolshannagh Roundabout, Armagh Road. Last Friday we were joined by Margaret Fitzpatrick the National coordinator of U3A in Ireland who was in town to help arrange our all-Ireland conference scheduled for October 17th next.

William Carleton Summer School
Don't forget the William Carleton Summer School which takes place in Emyvale and Monaghan from the 2nd to 4th of August and in Clogher from the 5th to 8th of August. All U3A members have been invited to attend.

Trip to Carlow
All U3A members have also been invited to join a group heading for a 4 day trip to Carlow on August 19th. The cost of this outing is €220 and includes 3 nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast in a Carlow hotel and entrance to various attractions including the National Stud, Japanese gardens and the Arboretum Lifestyle and Garden centre in Carlow. The package also includes a day trip to Kilkenny City. For further details or to book a place contact Ann on 047/89831

U3A News 15th July 2013

Coffee mornings
This Friday 19th July at 10:45am we again meet at "Savoir Faire" Graham's Coffee Shop at the Coolshannagh Roundabout, Armagh Road. These informal gatherings are proving to be quite a hit and help to keep us in contact over the summer months.

William Carleton Summer School
All U3A members have been invited to attend the William Carleton Summer School which takes place in Emyvale and Monaghan from the 2nd to 4th of August and in Clogher from the 5th to 8th of August. The event is being organised by Michael Fisher (former RTE NI correspondent) and he has put together a very interesting programme click here for details. To view the full press release click here

Upcoming Events
Visit to Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House on Saturday August 24th.
Monaghan U3A's all-Ireland conference: "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years" on October 17th.

 

U3A News 8th July 2013

Unlike most animals who go to sleep during winter members of U3A are somewhat different as they tend to hibernate in the summer months. However everything is not at a standstill as plans are well advanced for our all-Ireland conference in The Four Seasons Hotel on October 17th on the subject of "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years". This is Monaghan U3A's way of supporting "The Gathering 2013" and we will be calling on members to assist with the organisation of this event very soon.

Walking group
Last Wednesday's walk in Rossmore Forest Park was the last until September 4th when the group will resume with a new schedule of venues for the autumn and winter months.

Coffee mornings
To keep us in contact over the summer we plan to meet each Friday morning for coffee. Last week's event was well attended and this Friday 12th July at 10:45am we again meet at "Savoir Faire" Graham's Coffee Shop at the Coolshannagh Roundabout, Armagh Road.

Trip to Dublin
Details will shortly be available for our visit to Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House on Saturday August 24th.

 

U3A News 1st July 2013

Blackwater Valley Learning Centre Lunch
Several of our members had the pleasure of partaking of an excellent lunch and fabulous after lunch entertainment when we joined the throng attending the Truagh Development Association Summer Party on Monday 1 July . The venue was the Blackwater Valley Learning Centre at Knockronan, Emyvale. Entertainment was by the fascinating Percy French Quartet. Buíochas mór to the organisers and sponsors.
Walking Group
Our final walk of this season is to local Rossmore Park on Wednesday 10th July meeting at Threemilehouse Road gate entry at 10.30 am. This outing will be followed by a short break of some weeks and a new programme will be put in place for the Autumn. Thanks to Mary for her great work as walks co-ordinator.
YWCA lunch
Our final lunch, until next September, was very well attended. Pharmacist Gerry Lynch was the pre- lunch speaker for the event and we greatly appreciate him giving of this time and expertise on the morning. Our thanks also to Lizzy and her team for another super lunch and for accommodating our monthly talks.
Coffee gathering
Our next coffee morning is scheduled for 10.45 am Friday 12th July at "Savoir Faire" Graham's Coffee Shop at the Coolshannagh Roundabout, Armagh Road. All welcome to these coffee mornings which we plan to run weekly until the monthly lunches resume in September.
Conference 17th October
We will be calling on members to help with the arrangements for this major "Gathering" conference. More details later.
Age Action Ireland
Age Action and the U3A groups in the Republic are planning to set up a semi-autonomous oversight committee to organise the further and future development of the movement. Our local views on the best way forward will be submitted to the national committee for input to any change proposed. Members views welcomed.
Trip to Dublin
Keep your diary free for our visit to Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House on Saturday August 24th - details available soon.

 

U3A NEWS 24th June 2013

Monaghan University of the Third Age (U3A) - Supporting the Gathering
As a contribution to the Gathering Ireland 2013, Monaghan U3A is hosting a major all-island conference in The Four Seasons Hotel, Monaghan on the 17th October. The theme for the conference is "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years" and among the speakers will be Kathleen Lynch TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Older People; Claire Keatinge, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland and Marian Harkin MEP for Ireland North and West constituency. The conference hopes to address the challenges, opportunities and policies that will be pursued both within Ireland and the wider European Union to promote a rewarding and life enhancing older age.
Walking group
Next Wednesday July 3rd the walking group is going to Emy Lough, meeting at the Enterprise Centre in Emyvale village at 10:30am.
Summer Lunch in Blackwater learning centre.
If you are going to the Summer Lunch in the Blackwater Centre at 1pm on Monday July 1st call 047/87049 to book as places are limited. The Percy French Quartet will provide the entertainment.
Lunch meeting
This Friday June 28th is the date of our next monthly lunch meeting in the YWCA at 11am when Gerry Lynch from Dolans Pharmacy will be along to talk to us.
Coffee meetings
The first of our coffee mornings is scheduled for 10:45am on July 5th in Graham's Coffee Shop on the Armagh Road. Everyone welcome.
Date for your diary
Details of our visit to Kilmainham Jail and Farmleigh House on Saturday August 24th will be available soon.

Monaghan University of the Third Age (U3A) - Supporting the Gathering
As a contribution to the Gathering Ireland 2013, Monaghan U3A is hosting a significant all-island conference in The Four Seasons Hotel, Monaghan Town on the 17th October.

The theme for the conference is "Positive Living in the Third Age - Enhancing the Golden Years".

The conference will address the challenges, opportunities and policies that will be pursued both within Ireland and the wider European Union to promote a rewarding and life enhancing older age. Uniquely the conference will bring together within the same forum Kathleen Lynch TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Older People; Claire Keatinge, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland and Marian Harkin MEP for Ireland North and West constituency.

There will be a strong cross border emphasis and participation in the conference is open to all. The attendance will include members of the U3A movement from Northern Ireland and the Republic.

Keep this date free, more details of the day's programme to follow

For further information contact the event organiser: Eamonn Callaghan Tel: 0879186567 or
P.R.O. Malcolm Totten Tel: 0872576881 or email - [email protected]

 

U3A NEWS June 17th 2013

Summer Lunch in Blackwater learning centre.
Truagh Development Association has kindly invited U3A members to their Summer Lunch in the Blackwater Centre at 1pm on Monday July 1st. There will be entertainment after lunch provided by the Percy French Quartet. There is no charge as the event is fully funded by Monaghan Integrated Developments Ltd through the ""IFI Older persons programme". Places are limited so call 047/87049 to book.
Walking group
This Wednesday June 26th the walking group is going to Bellamont Forest Cootehill, meeting at McNally's filling station, Drumbear at 10am.
Lunch meeting
Don't forget the monthly lunch meeting on June 28th in the YWCA at 11am when Gerry Lynch from Dolans Pharmacy will be along to talk to us.
Coffee meetings
The first of our coffee mornings is scheduled for 10:45am on July 5th in Graham's Coffee Shop on the Armagh Road. Everyone welcome.
Dates for your diary
Details of our visit to Kilmainham jail and Farmleigh House on Saturday August 24th and the conference on October 17th will be available soon.

 

U3A NEWS June 10th 2013

Walking group
This Wednesday June 19th the walking group is heading to Mullyash meeting at Annyalla Church at 10:30am.
Lunch meeting
Our next monthly lunch meeting is scheduled for June 28th in the YWCA. This month we will be addressed by pharmacist Gerry Lynch from Dolans Pharmacy who will give us the benefit of his broad knowledge and experience. Lunch costing €5 will be served after the presentation and we would ask as many members as possible to stay for lunch to support Lizzie and her team who have looked after us so well all year.
Coffee meetings
Now that most of our activities have gone into hibernation for the summer it has been suggested that we should meet for coffee and chat each Friday morning. The first of these gatherings is scheduled for 10:45am on July 5th in Graham's Coffee Shop on the Armagh Road. Everyone welcome.
Dates for your diary
Plans are under way for a trip to Dublin on Saturday August 24th to visit Kilmainham jail and Farmleigh House and also for an all-Ireland conference to be held in Monaghan on October 17th. Details of both these events will be available soon.

 

U3A NEWS June 3rd 2013

Walking group
This Wednesday June 12th the walking group is going to Parkanure Forest Park meeting at Corracrin at 10:00am. This is only our second visit to Parkanaur which is close to Castlecaulfield, County Tyrone and home to a herd of white fallow deer. It should be very colourful around now with rhododendrons and other shrubs coming into bloom. A nature trail runs through oak and beech trees, passing a Victorian garden, wishing well and old archway. There is free access and the trail is wheelchair accessible.
Lunch meeting
Our next monthly lunch meeting is scheduled for June 28th in the YWCA. More details next week.

U3A NEWS May 27th 2013

Walking group
On Wednesday June 5th the walking group is going to Rossmore Forest Park meeting at the Threemilehouse Road entrance at 10:30am.
Computers
Friday next May 31st is the last of our computer workshops in Monaghan Library for this season. As with most of our activities the summer seems to be a rest season but we will re-convene in September.
Lunch meeting
Last Friday Mark Clifford from O'Hanrahan Travel gave us a very interesting talk at our monthly meeting in the YWCA and Lizzie and her team served a delicious lunch as usual. Everyone went home with loads of brochures to plan their trips abroad and the next monthly lunch meeting is scheduled for June 28th.

 

 

U3A NEWS May 20th 2013

Lunch meeting
This Friday May 24th at 11am Mark Clifford from O'Hanrahan Travel will talk to us at our monthly meeting in the YWCA. After his talk lunch will be provided by Lizzie and her team, cost €5
Walking group
On Wednesday May 29th the walking group tackles Esh Forest in Bragan meeting at the Mass Rock car park at 10:30am.
Computers
Friday 31st will see the last of our computer workshops in Monaghan Library for this season. These classes have been great fun for both tutors and pupils and in the true spirit of the U3A everyone taught and everyone learned! Our thanks go to the very cooperative staff in the library and also to our volunteer tutors who turned out so regularly.

U3A NEWS May 13th 2013

Lunch meeting
We're all looking forward to our next monthly meeting on Friday May 24th when the speaker will be Mark Clifford from O'Hanrahan Travel. No doubt Mark will be able to recommend all the exotic places we should visit. The meeting starts at 11am in the YWCA and as usual Lizzie and her team will have lunch for us afterwards, cost €5
Walking group
There is no walk on Wednesday May 22nd as most of the group are going on the bus tour of Glaslough and Mullan village. The walking group resumes on Wednesday May 29th when we will visit Esh Forest in Bragan; further details next week.
Flower arranging
The last of our series of flower arranging workshops takes place on Tuesday May 21st at 8pm in the YWCA. This has proved to be a very popular activity so thanks to everyone who helped to make it such a success. For more information contact 086/3205941
Computers
The Friday morning computer workshops are finishing at the end of this month so there are just two sessions left on Friday 17th and Friday 31st. There will be no computer class on Friday 24th due to our monthly lunch meeting.

U3A NEWS May 8th 2013

Trip around Glaslough & Mullan village
Our chairman Mick is hosting a guided tour of Glaslough village, Donagh old graveyard, Tully Fort and Mullan Village on Wednesday the 22nd May. Starting at 10am in the Oakland Centre Glaslough with Tea and Scones and finishing at Blackwater Centre with lunch at 1.30pm. This tour is fully funded by M.I.D.L. and spaces are limited so allocation of seats will be on a first come first served basis. Contact Mick on 086 8598170 for details and booking.
A good number of members have booked for the Balmoral Show trip on Thursday 16th so all we need now is the weather.
Walking group
This Wednesday May 15th the walk and talk group are heading to Castle Saunderstown on the Cavan/Fermanagh border. This is a new spot for us and it should prove to be an interesting venue as besides the castle and refurbished church the estate contains an International Scout Centre opened last year by President Michael D Higgins. The group hope to meet at the Eire Og car park in Smithborough at 10:00am. New walkers are always welcome; contact Mary on 087/6838445.
Computers
Computer workshops are taking place every Friday in the Library at 11am. This is not a class but more a group helping each other on a one to one basis and having fun with technology. Places are limited so contact Mick on 086/8598170 to book.

U3A NEWS May 1st 2013

Trip to Balmoral Show
Balmoral show is the major agriculture show in Northern Ireland with lots to interest both town and country folk. On Thursday May 16th a trip has been organised for U3A members to visit the show in its new location at the Maze outside Lisburn. This will be an all-day trip costing €40 including bus, entrance and a 3 course dinner on the way home. To book, please leave an envelope containing €40 in the Age Action Shop in Glaslough Street on or before Wednesday next May 8th, making sure to write your name and mobile telephone number on the outside. Times and pick-up points will be notified by text message.
Lunch meeting
Our thanks go to Barry Healy of Barry Healy & Company, Solicitors who gave a very interesting talk on the subject of making wills on Friday last in the YWCA. Thanks also to Lizzie and her gang of willing helpers for an excellent lunch. We're looking forward to our next monthly meeting on May 24th when the speaker will be Mark Clifford from O'Hanraghan Travel.
Computers
Computer workshops resume this week on Friday May 3rd in the Library at 11am. This is proving to be one of our most popular activities. Places are limited so contact Mick on 086/8598170 to book.
Walking group
This Wednesday May 8th the walk and talk group are at Lough Muckno, Castleblayney meeting at the gates of Hope Castle at 10:30am.
Flower arranging
The next flower arranging workshop is on Tuesday May 7th at 8pm in the YWCA. For more information contact 086/3205941

U3A NEWS 25th April, 2013

Lunch meeting
Everyone should make a will; it won't shorten your life by one day! On Friday April 26th in the YWCA at 11am, Barry Healy of Barry Healy & Company, Solicitors will talk to U3A members on this topic. As usual the talk will be followed by lunch prepared by Lizzie and her team cost €5.
Community Smoke Alarms Scheme
At our March meeting the Fire Officer indicated that free smoke alarms were available under the above scheme. To claim yours, contact Carol Lambe at Monaghan County Council. - 047/30500 or 086/8386905
Computers
There will be no computer workshop this week due to our monthly lunch meeting but we will resume on Friday May 3rd in the Library at 11am. This is proving to be one of our most popular activities. Places are limited so contact Mick on 086/8598170 to book.
Walking group
Gosford Forest Park near Markethill County Armagh is the venue for our next walk which takes place on Wednesday May 1st. The group hope to meet at the Lidl car park at 10:00am.
Flower arranging
The flower arranging takes place every two weeks in the YWCA. The next workshop is on Tuesday May 7th at 8pm. For more information contact 086/3205941

U3A NEWS 18th April,2013

Lunch meeting
Friday April 26th is the date for our next lunch meeting at 11am in the YWCA. Barry Healy of Barry Healy & Company, Solicitors will address us on the subject of making a will. As usual the talk will be followed by lunch prepared by Lizzie and her team cost €5.
Walking group
The walk and talk group are heading to Dartrey Forest on Wednesday next April 24th, meeting at McNally's Filling Station on the Cootehill Road at 10:00am.
Computers
The computer workshops continue every Friday in the Library at 11am. Places are limited so contact Mick on 086/8598170 to book your place.
Flower arranging
The next flower arranging workshop is in the YWCA on Tuesday April 23rd at 8 pm (not 7:30pm as in last week's report). For more information contact 086/3205941
Other activities
The digital photography course continues on Wednesdays at 2:30pm in the YWCA and the spoken French on Tuesdays at 12 noon in Ballinode.

 

U3A NEWS 11th April, 2013

Walking group
The walk and talk group are heading to St. Patrick's Chair and Well on Wednesday next April 17th, meeting at Tydavnet Community Centre at 10:00am.
Computers
The computer workshops restart tomorrow Friday 12th in the Library at 11am. As far as possible we try to cater for individual needs on to one to one basis. Places are limited so contact Mick on 086/8598170 to book your place.
Flower arranging
Our flower arranging started last Tuesday and will continue at fortnightly intervals so we will meet again in the YWCA on Tuesday April 23rd at 8pm. For more information contact 086/3205941
Lunch meeting
We have a change of speaker for our next lunch meeting in the YWCA on Friday April 26th. We will now be addressed by Barry Healy of Barry Healy & Company, Solicitors who will give us a talk on the subject of making a will. As usual the talk will be followed by lunch prepared by Lizzie and her team cost €5.
Other activities
No digital photography course on Wednesday 17th but we will resume as usual the following Wednesday 24th at 2:30pm in the YWCA.

 

U3A NEWS 4th April, 2013

After the Easter recess it's back to action for Monaghan U3A. Although quite a number of activities tend to stop with the onset of summer time we will keep you up to date with those that continue.
Flower arranging
Starts in the YWCA next Tuesday April 9th at 8pm and will continue at fortnightly intervals. For more information contact 086/3205941
Walking group
The walk and talk group are heading to the Bragan on Wednesday next April 10th when they take on the Rock Bridge walk. The meeting place is at the penal cross car park on the mountain top at 10:30am.
Gardening talks
Our gardeners resume their discussions next Tuesday 9th in Ballinode Community Centre at 7:30pm.
Computers
The computer workshops resume in the Library on Friday 12th at 11am. Contact Mick on 086/8598170 to book your place.
Other activities
The digital photography course continues on Wednesdays at 2:30pm in the YWCA and the spoken French on Tuesdays at 12 noon in Ballinode. The next lunch meeting in the YWCA is on Friday April 26th and will be addressed by Mark Clifford from O'Hanraghan Travel.

 

U3A NEWS 26th March,2013

Monthly lunch meeting.
Despite the inclement weather, last Friday's lunch meeting in the YWCA building was very well attended. Dermot Brannigan the Chief Fire Officer gave a very interesting talk on fire prevention and the use of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in the home. After the meeting all enjoyed lunch served up by Lizzie and the team. The next meeting is on Friday April 26th when Mark Clifford from O'Hanraghan Travel will tell us about all the "in" places for our holidays.
Walking group
The walk and talk group are going orienteering on Wednesday next April 3rd in Spring Grove Forest Park Roslea meeting in the car park on the Monaghan Road at 10:30am. Spring Grove has a purpose built orienteering course and we will be able to put our map-reading skills to the test.
Flower arranging
Starting on Tuesday April 9th at 8pm we will have a series of fortnightly flower arranging workshops in the YWCA building, more details next week.
Other activities
Some of our activities are winding down for the summer and others are taking an Easter break. The digital photography course resumes on Wednesday April 3rd at 2:30pm, the gardening and spoken French on Tuesday 9th and the computer workshops on Friday 12th. Both the card playing and the bowling are coming to an end with the onset of the longer evenings.

 

 

U3A NEWS 18th March,2013

Walking group
The walk and talk group are going orienteering in Rossmore Forest Park again this week starting at the Threemilehouse Road entrance on Wednesday next March 27th at 10:30am. For information contact Mary on 087/6838445.
Monthly meeting
Next Friday March 22nd at 11am we hold this month's lunch meeting in the YWCA building when the Chief Fire Officer Mr Dermot Brannigan will give us a talk on fire prevention in the home. Dermot's talk will be followed by lunch provided by Lizzie and crew.
Digital photography
The digital photography course resumes on Wednesday April 3rd at 2:30pm when we will concentrate on down-loading pictures to a computer, storage, printing etc.
Flower arranging
Remember Tuesday April 9th at 8pm is the start of a series of fortnightly flower arranging workshops in the YWCA building.
Computer classes
The weekly computer workshops are taking a break for Easter but will be resumed again after Easter. Talk to Mick on 0868598170
Other activities as follows.
Mondays: bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon at 8pm. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
Tuesdays: Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 12 noon. Contact 087/9186567 to join this group.
Gardening talks with Jim Kelly at 7:30pm also in Ballinode Community Centre. Just come along or contact 087/6862702 for more details
Wednesdays:
Card playing in Ballinode Community Centre at 8:00pm

 

 

U3A NEWS 11th March,2013
Walking group
The walk and talk group are planning to go orienteering in Rossmore Forest Park for the next two weeks. Brendan will introduce the skills of map-reading and will have maps and all other necessary equipment available. The fun starts at the Threemilehouse Road entrance on Wednesday next March 20th at 10:30am. For information contact Mary on 087/6838445.
Monthly meeting
Next Friday March 22nd we hold this month's lunch meeting in the YWCA building when the speaker will be the Chief Fire Officer Mr Dermot Brannigan who will give us a talk on fire prevention in the home.
Flower arranging
Remember Tuesday April 9th at 8pm is the start of a series of fortnightly flower arranging workshops in the YWCA building.
Digital photography
We have now done four weeks of the digital photography course during which we have learned about camera settings and taking picture. We are taking a two-week break and will resume on Wednesday April 3rd at 2:30pm when we will concentrate on down-loading pictures to a computer, storage, printing etc.
Computer classes
Tomorrow Friday 15th is the last of our weekly computer workshops for the present but it is hoped that we will resume again after Easter. Watch this space or contact Mick on 0868598170
Other activities as follows.
Mondays: bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon at 8pm. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
Tuesdays: Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 12 noon. Contact 087/9186567 to join this group.
Gardening talks with Jim Kelly at 7:30pm also in Ballinode Community Centre. Just come along or contact 087/6862702 for more details
Wednesdays:
Card playing in Ballinode Community Centre at 8:00pm

 

 

U3A NEWS W/C 4th March 2013

Monthly meeting
This month's lunch meeting will be a week earlier than usual due to the Easter holidays so on Friday March 22nd we will be addressed by the Chief Fire Officer Mr Dermot Brannigan. Dermot will give us a talk on fire prevention in the home.
Flower arranging
Tuesday April 9th at 8pm sees the start of a series of fortnightly flower arranging workshops in the YWCA building. We are very grateful to some of our members who are involved with the Monaghan Flower and Garden Club who have volunteered to lead the course and have enlisted some of their colleagues to lend a hand.
Regular activities as follows.
Mondays: bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon at 8pm. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
Tuesdays:Spoken French in Ballinode Community Centre at 12 noon. Contact 087/9186567 to join this group.
Gardening talks with Jim Kelly at 7:30pm also in Ballinode Community Centre. Just come along or contact 087/6862702 for more details
Wednesdays: "Walk and Talk" group go to Rossmore Park, meeting at the Threemilehouse Road entrance at 10:30am. Contact Mary on 087/6838445
Digital photography in the YWCA building at 2:30pm
Card playing in Ballinode Community Centre at 8:00pm
Fridays: Computer workshops in the Library at 11:00am. Contact Mick on 0868598170

 

U3A NEWS W/C Feb 25th 2013

Monthly lunch meeting
Last Friday's lunch meeting was a great success when about fifty members gathered to listen to Nutritional Therapist Alexia Treanor in the YWCA building. After the meeting all enjoyed the lunch served up by the Silver Threads team.
Gardening
A series of gardening talks will take place in Ballinode Community Centre starting next Tuesday March 5th at 7:30pm. These talks, led by Jimmy Kelly, have proved to be very popular in past years and all members are welcome. For further information contact 087/6862702
Spoken French
Classes on spoken French take place in Ballinode Community Centre every Tuesday at 12 noon. Members interested in joining this class should contact 087/9186567.
Computer Workshop
Our computer workshops resume in the Library this Friday March 1st at 11am. For information contact Mick on 086/8598170.
Walking Group
This group is going from strength to strength with over twenty walkers turning up some weeks. Next Wednesday March 6th the venue is Esh Forest, Knockatallon meeting at the Mass Rock car park at 10:30am. For information contact Mary on 087/6838445
Coming up
Spoken Irish classes and flower arranging workshops are being planned. Starting dates and venues will be announced soon.
Regular activities
Bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon every Monday at 8pm. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
Digital Photography classes are on-going every Wednesday at 2:30pm.
Every Wednesday night the card players meet in Ballinode Community Centre at 8pm.
To learn more about the U3A visit our website: www.picturesofireland.ie/U3A.htm

 

 

U3A NEWS W/C Feb 18th

Lough Derg Trip
Twenty four brave U3A members made the journey to Lough Derg on Ash Wednesday. St Patrick's Purgatory, a forbidding enough spot in the best of weather, was experiencing one of its wildest and wettest days but we were made very welcome and enjoyed the address by Gillian Kingston the Lay Leader of the Methodist Church in Ireland. Some pictures of the day can be seen on the Lough Derg Facebook page which can be accessed via their website www.loughderg.org
Monthly lunch meeting
Tomorrow Friday February 22nd our monthly lunch meeting takes place in the YWCA building starting at 11am. The speaker is Alexia Treanor a Nutritional Therapist who will tell us what we should eat to stay fit and healthy. After the meeting we will have a lunch provided by Lizzie and her team in the YWCA at a cost of €5 each.
Spoken French
Classes on spoken French are due to start in Ballinode Community Centre on Tuesday next February 26th at 12 noon. Members who marked French as an interest on their registration form will have been contacted by text but others interested in joining the class should contact 087/9186567 to enquire about places.
Digital Photography workshop
Members who have booked for this course and have been contacted by text should meet in the YWCA building on Wednesday 20th February at 2:30pm. We hope to run more classes later in the year for those who could not be accommodated this time.
Computer Workshop
Our computer workshop for this Friday 22nd has been cancelled in favour of our monthly lunch meeting but normal service will resume from next Friday March 1st at 11am.
Regular activities
This Wednesday 27th February the "Walk & Talk" group is heading for Knockmany Forest in County Tyrone, meeting at Tydavnet Community Centre at 10:00am.
Mondays @ 8pm: Bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
Every Wednesday night the card players meet in Ballinode Community Centre at 8pm.

 

 

 

U3A NEWS W/C Feb 11th

Monthly lunch meeting
Friday February 22nd is the date for our next monthly lunch meeting in the YWCA building starting at 11am. The speaker is Alexia Treanor a Nutritional Therapist who will tell us what we should eat to stay fit and healthy. After the meeting we will have a lunch provided by Lizzie and her team in the YWCA at a cost of €5.
Digital Photography workshop
There has been great interest in Digital photography and the class is now fully booked. Members attending this session will have been contacted by text should meet in the YWCA building on Wednesday 20th February at 2:30pm. Members who cannot be accommodated in this series of classes will have a further opportunity later in the year.
Computer Workshop
The Friday morning computer workshops have proved so popular that we are unable to facilitate further students at this point. We will be making arrangements for more workshops later on in the year and members should contact Mick on 086/8598170 to secure a place. Members who feel they could help as tutors should also contact Mick. The U3A motto is "everyone learns and everyone teaches".
Regular activities
This Wednesday 20th February the "Walk & Talk" group is heading for Stramackilroy meeting at Knockatallon School at 10:30am.
Mondays @ 8pm: Bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
Every Wednesday night the card players meet in Ballinode Community Centre at 8pm.

 

U3A NEWS W/C Feb 4th

Visit to Lough Derg
Our coach trip to Lough Derg on Ash Wednesday is proving very popular and tomorrow Friday 8th is the last day to book. To secure any remaining seats, an envelope marked "Lough Derg" with your name, mobile number and €15 should be left in the Age Action shop.
Due to this outing the "Walk & Talk" group will not be in action on Wednesday next February 13th.
Annual party
Tomorrow night Friday 8th we hold our annual get together in Maggie's Bar Ballinode @8pm. This will be an informal social evening with some entertainment. We hope to serve refreshments at 8:30pm and our caterers need members to confirm if they plan to attend by texting 087/2779070.
Digital Photography workshop
We are planning to hold the first of our digital photography classes in the YWCA building on Wednesday 20th February from 2:30 to 4:30pm. Places are very limited but if you're interested contact Malcolm on 087/2576881.
Regular activities
Mondays @ 8pm: Bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
Every Wednesday night the card players meet in Ballinode Community Centre at 8pm.
Computer workshops in the library every Friday @ 11am. All levels of ability welcome. For more information contact Mick on 086/8598170.
The U3A
(University of the 3rd Age) is a learning circle or cooperative of older people (55+) who learn from one another by sharing knowledge and experiences and engaging in shared activities. If you wish to join U3A just fill out a registration form at the Age Action shop Glaslough St. Monaghan. Annual membership costs €15 per person or €20 per couple.

 

U3A NEWS W/C Jan 28th

Monthly meeting and lunch
Last Friday 25th we held the first of our monthly information meetings in the YWCA. Our thanks go to Philip McCabe from Citizens Information who gave us a very interesting overview of citizen's rights and entitlements. Thanks also to Lizzie and her team in the YWCA who provided a fine lunch after the meeting.
Computer workshops
Our computer workshops in the library start tomorrow Friday @ 11am. All levels of ability welcome as tuition is generally on a one to one basis. Contact Mick on 086/8598170.
Visit to Lough Derg
A coach trip to Lough Derg on Ash Wednesday February 13th has been arranged to attend the island's ecumenical "Day of friendship and prayer". The guest speaker this year is Gillian Kingston , Lay Leader of the Methodist Church in Ireland. Lough Derg suggest a donation of €20 each which covers lunch and boat fare and the coach fare is €15. To book your seat, an envelope marked "Lough Derg" with your name, mobile number and €15 should be left in the Age Action shop before next Friday 8th. For more information visit the Louhg Derg website: http://www.loughderg.org/season-guide/day-of-friendship-and-prayer
Annual party
We all hope to meet in Maggie's Bar Ballinode on Friday February 8th for our annual get together. This will be an informal social evening starting around 8pm. Transport from Monaghan can be arranged. Text 087/2779070 to confirm your attendance and/or transport requirements.
Regular activities
Mondays @ 8pm: Bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
On Wednesday 6th the "Walk & Talk" group is going to Barratitoppy, meeting at the Mass Rock car park @ 10:30am. Contact Mary on 087/6838445.
Every Wednesday night the card players meet in Ballinode Community Centre at 8pm.
If you wish to join U3A just fill out a registration form at the Age Action shop Glaslough St. Monaghan. Annual membership costs €15 per person or €20 per couple.

U3A NEWS W/C Jan 21st

Annual Registration meeting
About 50 members attended the annual registration meeting of Monaghan U3A held in the YWCA Hall, North Road Monaghan on Thursday last January 17th. The U3A is a worldwide organisation for lifelong learning. Its object is to encourage older people to pass on to each other their skills and knowledge and to get involved in shared activities.
The meeting heard a report of last year's events and the treasurer outlined the group's financial position. After the election of officers a discussion took place regarding proposed outings and activities for 2013 and in addition to the group's current programme a number of new pursuits were suggested including the formation of a U3A choir.
The meeting was then addressed by Margaret Fitzpatrick education officer with Age Action and National coordinator for U3A. She commended the Monaghan branch for their progress in the last number of years and indicated that the U3A movement was growing rapidly in Ireland with further branches being formed in various counties. The organisation is particularly active in Northern Ireland and the Monaghan branch has already established relationships with many of their members. Margaret, through Age Action Ireland, will explore the possibility of having an all island conference held in Monaghan in the autumn of 2013 in conjunction with the Gathering"
Anyone wishing to join U3A who could not attend the meeting can do so by filling out a registration form at the Age Action shop in Glaslough St. Monaghan. Annual membership costs €15 per person or €20 per couple.
Monthly meeting and lunch
Next Friday 25th is the start of our monthly information meetings in the YWCA building. This meeting will be addressed by Philip McCabe from Citizens Information and will be followed by lunch at 12 noon at a cost of €5 per head. Philip is an expert on a wide range of topics - have your questions ready!
Regular activities
Our regular activities continue.
Mondays @ 8pm: Bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
This Wednesday 23rd the "Walk & Talk" group is heading for Lough Muckno, meeting at the gates of Hope Castle, Castleblaney @ 10:30am and on Wednesday 30th the venue is Dartrey Forest, meeting at McNally's Filling Station, Cootehill Road @ 10am. Contact Mary on 087/6838445 to add your name to the weekly texting list.
Every Wednesday night the card players meet in Ballinode Community Centre at 8pm.
Computer workshops
Our computer workshops in the library start on February 1st and will be held on three Friday mornings of each month @ 11am - on the last Friday we have our monthly lunch meeting. Bring your own laptop or use one supplied by the library. We cater for all levels of ability so even if you're afraid to switch on a computer come along and try your hand! Contact Mick on 086/8598170 for more information.

External Note

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF CARLETON: Next Saturday (26th January) a group from the William Carleton Society travels to Dublin to mark the 144th anniversary of the death of the famous 19thC Irish author from Clogher in County Tyrone. For details click on this link: CARLETON TRIP

 

U3A NEWS W/C Jan 14th

On Thursday January 17th at 11am we are holding our registration meeting in the YWCA Hall, North Road Monaghan. Everyone is welcome especially new members.
Regular activities
Mondays @ 8pm: Bowling in Sliabh Beagh Hotel, Knockatallon. Contact Gerard on 086/8353726 for details.
This Wednesday 23rd the "Walk & Talk" group is heading for Lough Muckno, meeting at the gates of Hope Castle, Castleblaney @ 10:30am. Contact Mary on 087/6838445 to add your name to the weekly texting list. This activity is growing in popularity with up to 20 walkers turning up recently.
Wednesday night is for card playing so if you fancy a casual game of "45" come to Ballinode Community Centre at 8pm.
The computer workshops in the library on Friday mornings will be starting on February 1st. Bring your own laptop or use one supplied by the library. More details next week.
Monthly meeting and lunch
Next Friday 25th is the start of our monthly information meetings in the YWCA building. This month we will be addressed by Philip McCabe from Citizens Information and the meeting will be followed by lunch at 12 noon at a cost of €5 per head. Philip is an expert on a wide range of topics - have your questions ready!

 

U3A NEWS W/C Jan 7th

The 2013 programme will kick off with a registration meeting in the YWCA Hall, North Road Monaghan on Thursday next January 17th at 11am when new members will be especially welcome. The meeting will be addressed by Margaret Fitzpatrick, Education Development Officer of Age Action. Margaret is the National Co-ordinator of U3A groups and will bring us up to date with the programmes of other groups in Ireland. Our on-going activities will be outlined and there will be an open discussion to plan new events.
After the Christmas break many of the regular activities have already re-commenced, including bowling on Monday nights in Sliabh Beagh, card playing on Wednesday nights in Ballinode and the rambling group has taken to walking with renewed vigour every Wednesday morning to work off the Christmas excesses.
We also plan to continue with our computer workshop in the library on Friday mornings at 11am starting on February 1st. The one to one tuition offered has proved to be a great hit with lots of older people getting their first taste of the World Wide Web and learning how to download pictures from their digital cameras. Gardening and digital photography classes are being planned provided there is enough interest so come along and tell us what you'd like to do. If you have a skill or interest you could share with others we'd love to hear from you.
Monthly meeting and lunch
On the last Friday of each month in place of our computer class we hope to have an information meeting in the YWCA building. It is planned to have a different speaker at each meeting to talk to the group on subjects of interest to those of a more mature vintage. The first of these events will be on Friday 25th January when we will be addressed by Philip McCabe from Citizens Information . The meeting at 11am will be followed by lunch at 12 noon at a cost of €5 per head. Philip is an expert on a wide range of topics and has been a regular guest imparting his knowledge on many radio shows. Come along and pick his brains!

Momaghan U3A, Contact Age Action, 31 Glaslough Street, Monaghan. Tel: 047/75942 Email [email protected]