Mansfield and District U3ANewsletter

Summer Picnic. (See Recent Events: Page 12)_____________________________

Established 1999HMRC Charity Registration No.: XT30525

September 2013 – AGM EditionWebsite: www.mansfield-u3a.org.uk

Noticeboard: http://mansfieldu3a.blogspot.com

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Welcome from your chairmanTHIS LETTER, I promise, is the last that you will have to read from me – a merciful release for bothyou and me!

One point that I would like to labour – the Exhibition of Mansfield U3A activities and works at theMuseum in May-June 2014. It could be a wonderful celebration of your membership andenthusiasm over the years.

The Museum authorities are excited by the idea and will help in any way that they can. I would askGroup Leaders and members to start thinking how best their activities can be presented. Perhapsless of a picture-framed, hung-on-walls exhibition than something more dynamic – videos projected,photos on continuous loop, maps covering a wall, Interest Groups busy in the Museum to showhow we approach our leisure time.

With the permission of the Groups Coordinator, I would like to gauge your thoughts at theNovember meeting of Interest Group Leaders and then we can plan from there.

Meanwhile, I will slide into a reflective mode. Last summer's AGM Newsletter contained mythoughts on the Olympics, and recently, the papers and TV have been full of rather gloomyretrospectives. Did the Olympics make any difference to us in the longer term?

No doubt, some sports, many sportsmen and women, and most volunteers and workers would saythat they have gained from the Games and that a lasting legacy has been created.

But for the nation?

Perhaps the major gain was, and is, the sense of pride that we, the British, could create such ajoyously successful occasion, one which the whole country could embrace – an experience thatwas not purely selfish and personal, but which covered most of us.

Perhaps we can bring this into our time in U3A – not just pleasure in personal enjoyment, but asense of pride that we are creating an organisation in which many can find find something valuableand enjoyable, something that we share and work together towards.

Let's go forward thinking this, and then we will have done something good. Adieu!Mike Allen______________________________________________________________________________

In this issuePage 2 WelcomePage 3 AGM Agenda. Chairman's Report. (Start)Page 4 Chairman's Report. (End); Treasurer's Report. Page 5 Subscriptions Reminder. Groups Report (Start)

Page 6 Groups Report (End). Membership Secretary's Report. Newsletter Report. Website Report.

Page 7 Nominations for Committee. Introducing New Committee Members.Pages 8 - 11 Interest Groups meetings diary.Page 11 Holiday Updates. (Start)Page 12 Holiday Updates. (End). Recent Events: Summer Picnic; Visit to Sheila

Whalley's GardenPage 13 Groups News: Theatre Visits; Digital World; Holidays (Start)Page 14 Groups News: Holidays (End); Luncheon Club; BowlsPage 15 Groups News: Reading1; Strollers; Writing for PleasurePage 16 Dates for your diary and Notices.

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AGM Agenda1. Welcome by Chairman at 11.15am after monthly meeting and coffee.2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2012 AGM.3. Chairman's Report.4. Treasurer's Report (inc. approval of the Accounts and re-election of the

Auditor).5. Nominations for committee.6. Election of new committee.7. A.O.B.

Date of next AGM: Tuesday 16th September 2014.______________________________________________________________________________

Chairman's Report 2013THE ANNUAL Report provides us all with the opportunity to reflect on how well Mansfield U3A isfulfilling the Objects of its own Constitution that require us to ‘advance the education of its Membersin the spirit of the Third Age Trust’ and to ‘provide the facilities for leisure time and recreationalactivities’.

With 35 active Interest Groups, Mansfield U3A provides a wide range of activities for its 275members. Education is advanced, not just by talks and lectures, though some groups do bring inmost interesting speakers (the Gardening Group and Local History for instance), but also by visits(Sci-Tech and Art Appreciation) and, above all, through our activities. We learn through doing - inDigital Photography, Art, Writing for Pleasure, Current Affairs, Family History, Scrabble and so manymore.

Even in those groups that seem less educational on the surface, such as the Walking Groups, thePudding Club, Chat and Stitch and Tai-Chi, members are learning new skills and encountering newideas. Theatre Visits do this dramatically, of course (intentional pun!) while the odd corners left arefilled by the Luncheon Club!

Education does not have to be ‘book learning’ to be valuable; it is about introducing new ideas andenriching the lives of members. The Singing for Pleasure Group not only enriches the lives of ourmembers, but also those of the audiences.

The monthly meeting reinforces the idea of education sliding in under the radar – each differentspeaker opens up new avenues for us. Just remember the lady from the Dickens Society, thefarmer’s wife, Capt. Dyer and the film stars – we learnt a lot from them.

I believe that we fulfil the educational objective, and by doing so, we provide the ‘facilities’ (theInterest Groups) for leisure and recreation for our members. New groups are formed (Antiques andCollectibles is the latest), although some gently fade or do not appeal to enough people.

If there are members of Mansfield U3A who do not take advantage of the range of Interest Groups,both to continue their own education and to enhance their own enjoyment of life, they are missingone of the main points of U3A membership..

Let us reflect on another point – that Members undertake themselves, without payment, themany and varied tasks necessary to run their U3A. I would like to think that we do this, willinglyand happily, although I have some worries.

Will an Interest Group survive without the founder leader? How long should a leader carry theburden and are others ready to pick it up? Have we got new members joining who are prepared tobecome leaders of groups?

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The Quiz Night, the August Picnic, the Coffee Morning have done us proud for years, but isn’t therea need for other social ventures to be supported by the members?

Mansfield U3A succeeds. It succeeds because of its members. Let us ensure that it does notsurvive in spite of its members.Mike Allen

Treasurer's Report, Financial Year 1st August 2012 – 31 July 2013

WE ARE PLEASED to report another successful year for Mansfield U3A and a healthy financialsituation at the year end on 31st July.

We have received a further tax refund on subscriptions via the Gift Aid Scheme. This has enabledus to make a refund to members of £2 each via a reduction in the subscription charge for thecoming year.

We have made a one-off purchase of a new P.A. system that will improve the quality of sound forour members at the monthly meetings.

Members’ continued support for the book sales, coffee morning and quiz night have made animportant contribution to our finances and the proceeds from these social events are now keptseparate from our general running costs.

The committee thank you all once again for your support over the year.

Below is a brief summary of our accounts for the year. A full detailed financial report will be given atthe AGM and copies of the full accounts are available from the treasurer on request. Pauline Boucher, Treasurer

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Annual Subscriptions 2013/2014 – ReminderOUR financial year ended on 31st July and annual subscriptions are now due: £17.00 for newmembers; £15.00 if you're renewing and £11.50 for associates.

Please remind any friends who wish to renew their membership but are unable to attend themonthly meetings to contact the treasurer or any committee member. And please contact me ifyou'd like to use on-line banking.Pauline Boucher______________________________________________________________________________

Groups ReportWE CLOSE the Mansfield U3A year noting that 3 of the 4 new groups that emerged in 2011-12continue to flourish, thanks to the support of members and the dedication of their leaders:

• Local History Group Leaders: Bob and Sue Longden• Bowls Group Leader: Don Wright• Writing for Pleasure Group Leaders: Hilary Miller and Sue Ford

(Unfortunately Line Dancing proved short-lived, despite Carole Justice's stalwart efforts, as incomefrom members' attendance subs fell short of that needed to cover the tutor's fees and hall costs,despite a start-up grant from the Committee.)

New this year were:

• Heart Start Group Leader: Linda LeiversSupported by the British Heart Foundation, this initiative teaches people simpleEmergency Life Support skills to help them know what to do in a life-threateningemergency. It has proved so popular with members that training sessions are fully-bookeduntil December and more are being planned.

• Concert Visits Contact; David LingThis initiative by Southwell U3A to provide discounted group concert tickets at the RoyalConcert Hall, Nottingham, and coach travel from local pick-up points didn't provesufficiently popular with local U3As to justify a route through Mansfield. Hopefully theNorth Notts Neighbourhood Group of U3As will be able to gain enough support from theirwider catchment area for it to continue for another year.

• Art Group Leader: Linda SprayHelped by member Michael Morton, a former professional illustrator, this group is nowwell-established with members tackling a wide range of projects together.

• Yoga Group Leaders: Linda Leivers & Pauline BoucherInitial enthusiasm tailed off as the cost of the weekly sessions took their toll but our yogaenthusiasts have been welcomed by Ravenshead U3A.

• Caravan & Motorhome Rally Group Leader: Terry LammasThis group held its inaugural meeting in June and continues to meet at well-equippedsites so that members can enjoy breaks together and share experiences. Its first overseastrip will be to France in June 2014.

• Antiques and Collectables Group Leader: Pat BlackwellThis new group will have its first meeting at 10.00 on Tuesday 8th October, at theStanhope Centre, Bridge Street, Mansfield. The hope is that people will share their owninterests and knowledge with others. The subjects and objects need not be of great valueand can range from medieval to mid-sixties.

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• Movement to Music Contact: Linda LeiversThis new group hopes to start in the Autumn, subject to being able to find a teacher whocan help us keep fit in a suitably U3A manner, and a group leader,

Our thanks go to these new Group Leaders for the hard work and interest they are giving inensuring that their groups are successful.

There will be updates after the Group Leaders' next meeting on Friday, 8th November, so pleasecontact Linda Leivers if you have any ideas.

Membership Secretary’s ReportIT WILL BE of no surprise to all of you that, as in previous years, our waiting list for membershipcontinues to grow. This is despite our decision to increase the membership for 2012/2013 by 25 to275. We had hoped that this move would absorb the majority of the waiting list but I can report thatwe currently have in excess of 30 people still waiting for membership.

It is definitely a sign of our continued success and popularity, and possibly the launch of the newRainworth U3A later this year will absorb some of our waiting list, at least temporarily.

Following the AGM and when all the fees have been collected we can start the process of taking onnew members.

As always, I know that you will all give a warm welcome to this year’s new members.Avril McGee, Membership Secretary

Newsletter ReportI'M DELIGHTED to be able to report again that we published 12-page issues every month last year– apart from this special AGM edition that has to be 16 pages in order to include all the necessaryformalities.

(The August issue was only published on-line as we don't meet that month and it's better use ofmembers' funds for those with on-line access to download their own copies and print copies forfriends that lack them.)

Earlier availability, bigger text and full-colour photos are other advantages of on-line publication ofevery edition that around 100 members have enjoyed too, from around the 10th of every month.Publication is always announced on the website home page and you could sign-up there to be toldby email when each new issue is available.

I'm sure all members will join me in thanking the many contributors whose news of events, futureinterest group plans and humorous/helpful/cautionary tales make this newsletter what it is.David Ling, Editor

Website ReportTHREE website managers are now helping to maintain our website, which has 56 active interestgroup and general pages at the moment and offers over 100 printable reference documents. Wecurrently attract around 2000 visitors every month, seeking information quickly and saving money.

Terry Whitehead, Linda Leivers and Bob Longden have already taken-on several maintenancetasks, helping group leaders to maintain their pages so that every interest group page is kept up todate.

Last year's change to a Content Management System seems to have been completed seamlesslyand most Group Leaders are getting confident in updating their own pages, willingly helped by theManagers whenever asked. David Ling, Webmaster

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Nominations for the committeeTHE FOLLOWING are seeking election to the Committee for a period of two years:

Bob Longden (Vice Chairman)Linda Spray (Business Secretary)John Troop (Asst. Treasurer)Sheila Whalley (Committee Member)

The following are seeking re-election to the Committee for a period of two years: Pauline Boucher (Treasurer)

Avril McGee (Membership Secretary) Jean Hinds (Social Events)

The following were elected at the 2012 AGM for a period of two years:Glenis Carr (Chairperson)Jennie Roberts (Minutes Secretary)

Linda Leivers (Groups Coordinator)Marilyn Dibble (Speaker Finder).

Introducing the new Committee NomineesBob Longden – Vice Chairmanbob.longden@ntlworld.com (01623 486903)

Bob joined Mansfield U3A a few years ago, looking for some ways to better enjoy his free time. He found the choices appealing and his first group adventure was Sci-Tech. Having thoroughly enjoyed this, he and Sue became involved in setting-up and running the Local History Group in December 2012 and he became group leader.

Linda Spray – Secretary (Business)nilda23@virginmedia.com (01623 795176)

Linda joined Mansfield U3A in October 2012 after a diverse career withinNottinghamshire County Council. She retired in 2011. Looking for ‘retirementpastimes’ led her to Mansfield U3A, which she enjoys and participates in fully. Sheis now co-ordinator of the new Art Interest group and is a regular Stroller.

John Troop – Asst. Treasurer johntroop@hotmail.co.uk (01623 633404)

John joined the family business selling fruit and veg on Mansfield Market beforehe and Karen bought a Post Office and Store. He joined Mansfield U3A in 2007and previously served on the committee from 2008 to 2011. He is a member ofthe Luncheon Club, Family History, Garden Visits and Gardening Groups.

Sheila Whalley – Committee Member jeansheila@btinternet.com (01623 453908)

Sheila joined Mansfield U3A 7 years ago. She used to run her own business designing and making children's dresses and fancy dress costumes. She now does voluntary work for the Air Ambulance and opens her garden to raise money for the NGS, etc. She's on the Gardening group committee and is group leader forTheatre Visits. She also enjoys baking, U3A holidays and outings.

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Key to Meetings details:THIS TABLE SHOWS THE DAY of the month, time and frequency using the first two letters of theday, followed by numbers 1 - 5 to represent the week number. The final letter M (or F, W or V)indicates that the group meets monthly, fortnightly, weekly or at variable intervals.

So 'Tu2, 2.30 - V M' would mean a group meeting on the 2nd Tuesday at 2.30pm Monthly but withVariable finish times.

The main Mansfield and District U3A meetings are on the 3rd Tuesday of each month (except Augustand December) at the Oakham Suite, 155 Nottingham Road, Mansfield from 10 am - 12.30 pm.

All members are invited to contact the relevant Group Leader if they would like to participate in anyinterest group or attend an event. NB: * indicates a waiting list.

Interest Group Meetings Meeting Places Leader/Contact

Antiques & Collectables (New)

Tu 2, 10 - 12 M Stanhope Centre, Bridge Street

Pat Blackwell 01623 481745

Inaugural Meeting: October 8th

Art We3, 10 - 12 M Big Barn Lane Methodist Church, Mansfield

Linda Spray 01623 795176

Next Meetings: September 18th – Animals; 16th October – TBA

Art Appreciation Mo1, 2.00 - 4.00 M Baptist Church, Rosemary St.Mansfield

Pauline Boucher01623 644798

Next Visit: 7th October – Visit to Nottingham Art Gallery and Museum.

Beginners' Bridge(With Ashfield U3A)

Mo, Various 6.30 - 9.00

Enviro Centre, Derby Rd College,Mansfield

Maxine Rose/Glenis Carr 01623 459081/627735

Next Meetings: Sept. 16th & 30th; Oct. 14th & 28th; Nov.11th & 25th; Dec. 9th (Also Acol sessions at the Mechanics Institute – Th, 10 - 12.30 W)

Bowls Th, 1.30 - 3.30 W Mansfield Bowls Club, Chesterfield Road

Don Wright01623 628946

Next Meetings: Sept. 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th. (End of season.) Then, from 15th Oct., indoors at Lammas Sports Centre, Sutton: 2.30 - 4.00

Caravan & M'home Rally

Various TBA Terry Lammas01623 471963

Next Meetings: 1st & 2nd Nov. – at Swinethorpe, nr. Lincoln, with hog roast, entertainment and firework display; 1st to 29th June 2014 – France

Chat and Stitch Mo3, 2.00 - 4.00 M St John's Centre, Mansfield

Doreen Storer01623 407731

Next Meetings: 16th September; 21st October; 18th November.

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Interest Group Meetings Meeting Place Leader/Contact

Current Affairs Tu2, 2.00 - 4.00 M St John's Centre, Mansfield

Norma Shillinglaw01623 466934

Next Meetings: September 10th; October 8th; November 12th

Digital World Fri 2 & 4, 2.00 - 4.00 2/M

Stanton Hill Baptist Church, Skegby

David Ling01623 822994

Next Meetings: September 13th – Back to Basics & 27th – Treasure Hunt; October 11th & 25thSummer Theme: The Alphabet in Pictures

Family History Tu4, 10.00 - 12.00 M St John's Centre, Mansfield

Max Clarke01623 621744

Next Meetings: 24th Sept. – How computers aid research

Film Studies * We1, 1.30 - V M Joy's home Joy Crowe01623 645400

Next Meetings: TBA

Garden Visits During the Summer Various Janet Whitlam01623 635607

Next Visits: TBA

Gardening Tu1, 10.00 - 12.00 M St Peter's Centre, Mansfield

Avril McGee01623 452688

Next Meetings: 1st Oct. – Native Trees of Britain with Phil Holmes; 5th Nov. – Willow Wreath Making

Heartstart Th3, 1.00 - 3.00 William Kaye Hall, Ladybrook Lane

Linda Leivers 01623 471963

Next Meetings: 19th Sept. (10.00 - 12.00); 17th Oct. (1.00 - 3.00)

Holidays (Home & Abroad)

Various TBA Margaret Burlinson01623 632538

Next holidays: 4th, 5th & 6th December – Thursford Christmas Spectacular; Monday 27th to Friday 31st January 2014 – Warner's Thoresby Hall (Contact Terry Whitehead on 01623 626991)

Local History Fri1, 10.00 - 12.00 M Bridge Street Methodist Church

Bob & Sue Longden01623 486903

Next Meetings: Oct. 4th – The Workhouse with Pat Blackwell; Nov. 1st – Lost Houses of Notts. withSue Longden

Luncheon Club Th after 3rd Tu, 12.00 - 2.00 M

Various David Ling01623 822994

Next Meetings: September 19th – Bestwood Lodge, Arnold; Oct. 17th – Greendale Oak, Cuckney

Movement to Music (New)

TBA TBA Linda Leivers 01623 471963

Inaugural Meeting: TBA

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Interest Group Meetings Meeting Place Leader/Contact

Music Groups

Classical Music 2 Mo4, 2.00 - 4.00 M Members' homes Peter Hart01623 620940

Next Meetings: 23rd Sept. – Scandinavians with Peter Hart; 28th Oct. – Piano with Peter Crabbe

Concert Visits (With Southwell U3A)

Various Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham

David Ling01623 822994

Next Meeting: TBA

Music 2 * Mo4, 2.00 - 4.30 M Members' homes Eric Prescott 01623 631160

Next Meeting: TBA

Popular Music Appreciation *

Tu4, 2.00 - 4.00 M St John's School, Mansfield

Peter Haynes 01623 610886

Next Meetings: TBA

Pudding Club * Tu1, 4.00 - 6.00 M Members' homes Sylvia Slack 01623 633981

Next Meetings: No meeting in September. October 1st – with Sylvia

Reading 1 Th3, 2.00 - 4.00 M Peter Dawson's home Peter Dawson 01623 882191

Next Meetings: 19th September; 17th October

Reading 2 Tu3, 2.00 - 4.00 M Ravenshead Library Joan Hufton01623 557488

Next Meetings: 17th September; 15th October

Science & Technical Tu1, 1.30 - 3.30 M Stanton Hill Baptist Church, Skegby

Ian Boucher01623 644798

Next Meetings: 1st Oct. – DNA with Jill Pullan; 8th Nov. – TBA

Scrabble * Mo2, 2.00 - 4 .00 M Brenda Thurkettle's home

Brenda Thurkettle01623 628136

Next Meetings: TBA

Singing for Fun Th V West Notts College, Derby Rd. Mansfield

June Fell 01623 623547

Next Meetings: Sept. 19th; Oct 3rd, 17th & 31st, Nov. 14th & Tues. Nov 26thNext Concerts: Fri. Dec. 6th – Kirkby Library; Sun. Dec. 8th – In Church (TBA)

Tai Chi Mo, 9.30 - 10.30 W St John's Centre,Mansfield

Cliff Laycock01623 481985

Next Meetings: Sept. 16th, 23rd & 30th; Oct. 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th

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Interest Group Meetings Meeting Place Leader/Contact

Theatre Visits Various Various Sheila Whalley 01623 453908

Next Meetings: Wed. 18th Sept. – Fiddler on the Roof; Sat. 12th Oct. – Our House; Wed. 16th Oct. – To Sir With Love; 30th Oct. – Chin Chin. (Matinees at the RCH, Nottingham)

Walking Groups

Hikers (all-day, 6 - 8 miles)

Th1 & Mo3, 9.30 - V 2/M

Tesco car park, off Oak Tree Lane

Peter Thurkettle 01623 628136

Next Meetings: Mon. 16th Sept. – Tithby / Cropwell Bishop; Thurs. 3rd Oct. – High Peak Junction; Mon. 21st Oct. – Kniveton / Bradbourne

Shufflers(short & gentle)

V Lunchtimes Various Sylvia Slack 01623 633981

Next Meeting: Fri. 20th Sept. – Sutton Reservoir, 11.00am; Thurs. Oct 24th, – The Lion, Farnsfield, Noon

Strollers(a leisurely 2 miles)

We2, 10.30 - V M Various Barbara Massey / Marion Thornton 01623 628357 / 01623 651528

Next Meetings: 9th Oct . – The Lawns, Sutton in Ashfield; 13th Nov. – Berry Hill Park

Walkers (an easy 4 - 5 miles)

We4, 10.30 – V M Various Joy & Nick Crowe01623 645400

Next Meetings: 25th Sept. – Calverton; 23rd Oct. – Farnsfield

Wine Appreciation 2* We3, 7.30 - V M Members' homes Mike Allen01623 653345

Next Meetings: Sept.18th – Whites with John & Margaret; Oct 16th – Macon-Villages with NS

Wine Appreciation 3*

Tu4, 7.30 - V M Members' homes Graham Allin01623 473662

Next Meetings: Sept. 24th – Wide price range White with Ron

Writing for Pleasure * Mo2, 2.00 - 4.00 M The Stanhope Centre Mansfield.

Sue Ford / Hilary Miller 01623 844286 / 620067

Next Meetings: Oct. 14th; Nov. 11th

Holiday UpdatesWarner’s Thoresby Hall, Mon. 27th to Fri. 31st Jan. 2014 (Update for those not on the internet.)YEAR 9 OF THE ANNUAL U3A THORESBY HOLIDAY.4 nights bed breakfast and evening meal. Price per person: £193.

There are no singles left, because I initially asked for standard rooms for 180 guests and somepeople have upgraded. But several twin/double rooms are still available.

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I will require paying by the October meeting; date your cheque for 15th October 2013 and make itpayable to Mansfield & District U3A. If you want to come, phone 01623 626991 to discuss T&Cs.Terry Whitehead (01623 626991)

Thursford Christmas Spectacular 4th, 5th & 6th December 2013All balances must be paid at the September meeting as I have to send off the money before the endof September. Cheques to be paid to Mansfield & District U3A; £194 single room, £169 pp sharing.Margaret Burlinson (01623 632538; email: marburl@lineone.net)

______________________________________________________________________________Recent Events

Summer picnicI HOPED for good weather for our picnic on 20th August, and it was. Everyone started to arriveearly with arms and baskets full of food. We had so much we needed extra tables and wow what apicture they looked. Sandwiches, paté, cooked meats, salads, fruit kebabs, cakes and scones ... thelist could go on and on.

Well done everyone who contributed to another marvellous U3A picnic.

The rest of the afternoon was spent chatting with friends and playing games. I even had a lesson onhow to play “shove ha'penny”. Thanks Gordon.

Thank you to Elizabeth and Jean for selling raffle tickets and thank you all for buying them; we took£109. Thanks too to Janet, Jackie, Linda, Sheila, Mike, John, Pete, Bob & David for their help andeveryone who came and made it such a lovely afternoon.Karen Troop, Social Committee. Photos on the website ...

Visit to Sheila Whalley's gardenI'D LIKE to thank Sheila Whalley forher generosity in opening herwonderful garden to us on 28th July.

It was a real life Secret Garden aseach garden ‘room’ opened into yetanother hidden garden room, filledwith plants and statues andcomfortable places to sit.

The hard work and dedication shehas shown astonishes me and I canonly thank her.

Thanks also to the hard workingSocial Committee members whospent Sunday (and other daysbeforehand) ‘on duty’ organising araffle and providing us with tea anddelicious cakes.

We spent enough to give Air Ambulance nearly £200.

Her efforts over two weekends raised £500 for the National Garden Scheme and a total of £443.90for the Air Ambulance. Thanks to those who attended.Mike Allen More photos on the website ...

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Groups News

Theatre VisitsI will book for the Panto at the Playhouse Nottingham Nov/Dec. It is Jack and the Beanstalk thisyear. As parking is sparse in that area I will organise a bus if enough people want one or a taxi fromthe Theatre Royal tram stop would be feasible. Wednesday matinee, stall seats £22, seniors £20.Registered disabled £11.

PROGRAMME FOR 2014• Singing in the Rain: Wed. 12th February matinee £40 (if 10 go, £36) Pay by 12th

December.

• Brassed Off: Wed 5th March matinee £21 (if 10 go, £18.90) Pay 5th January.

Sheila Whalley (01623 453908)

Digital WorldOUR EXPLORATION of the alphabet in commonplace subjects produced some interestingexamples at our last meeting at Stanton Hill Baptist Church before the holidays and we'll revisit thesubject on 13th September. We'll also have another back-to-basics session then to help less-experienced members with the camera settings and menus that may seem daunting until they'reexplained.

Everyone welcome!

Then we're hoping to hold another treasure hunt on 27th September, weather permitting, whenmembers will be tasked to find and photograph a list of subjects that we'll discuss on 11th October.

This will obviously be weather-dependent so please let me know if you'd like to be updated in duecourse.David Ling (01623 822994)

HolidaysANOTHER HUGE THANK-YOU for the beautiful flowers that were presented to me at the Junemeeting by Norma Shillinglaw on behalf of those who went on the 'Around Britain Cruise'. It was awonderful & unexpected surprise. I couldn't believe how long they lasted too!

I would also like to thank all those who went to Tenby for the most unusual orchid, the bottles ofbooze, the chocolates and the lovely basket of fruit that Brian and Pat Gaunt brought me after myreplacement knee operation. I also appreciated the visits, the cards and phone calls wishing me aspeedy recovery. I had a few setbacks but I'm pleased to say I am now making steady progress.

New Holidays for 2014WARNER'S LAKESIDE HOLIDAY VILLAGE, HAYLING ISLAND. Mon. 23rd - Fri. 27th June 2014Cost £299, no single supplement. Deposit £25 by October meeting + £10 optional travel insurance(no upper age limit). Cheques to Mansfield & District U3A

This price includes 3 excursions to include Portsmouth, Chichester, Arundel Castle, Bognor Regisand probably Brighton. Entrance fees to places of interest in Portsmouth e.g. Historic Docks, MaryRose, HMS Victory and the Spinnaker Tower will be optional as some people may have alreadybeen. To give you an idea, a combined group ticket (15 people) to all these will today cost £21.45p.Booking for these will be discussed at a later date.

(Will all those people who went to Tenby and showed an interest in the Hayling Island holidayplease come to see me to confirm if you still want to go.)

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8 DAYS IN THE ALGARVE PORTUGAL SEPTEMBER 18TH - 25TH 2014. Cost including 5 excursions approximately £800 (£90 single supplement) Flying from East Midlands to Faro with Jet 2 airline. Staying in 3* hotel Dom Jose in Quarteira, 5kmsfrom Vilamoura. Situated across from the beach so area very flat. Deposit £50 to be paid no laterthan the November meeting + optional £56 no-upper-age-limit insurance. (The earlier the betterbecause we have to watch potential airline increases that will have to be passed on!) Chequespayable to Mansfield & District U3A.Margaret Burlinson

Luncheon ClubI'M SURE we all lost weight during the holidays (not!) so I hope you're getting in the mood to enjoythe start of our Autumn lunch season at the Bestwood Lodge in Arnold, which will be a new venturefor us (thanks Pauline and Ian!).

I keep hearing rave reviews about this venue from members who've ventured South free-lance soplease check that your name is on the booking sheet – with the choice of dishes you want.

Bookings are now open for our October lunch at the Greendale Oak, Cuckney, too which has had amajor make-over since our last visit some years ago and has passed tests by organiser Linda Sprayand did Jackie and I proud when we dropped in for a snack.

Joyeux Noel: That time's fast approaching so bookings for our now-traditional Christmas fine-dining lunch in the French manner at Launay's, Edwinstowe, are also open today. It will be earlier inDecember than usual – on 12th December – so that we avoid at least some of the seasonalfestivities elsewhere.

Cost: from £15.95 for 2 courses, £23.50 for 3 and £30 for 4.(Plus optional oysters pre-starter @ £8 per 1/2 doz.)

Pre-book by the November meeting AT THE LATEST with £10 deposit by cheque payable toMansfield U3A.David Ling

BowlsTHE VERY successful and enjoyable outdoor bowling season ends on 28th September. Theweather compared to last year has been extremely good with many red faces due to the sun ratherthan the wrong bias being played. Many members of the U3A Group wanting to play more than theweekly two hours have become members of Mansfield Bowling Club, fully participating in activities.

The highlight of the season was U3A member Pat Kendallwinning the Mansfield Bowling Club's Ladies Single ChampionCompetition, so congratulations to Pat. Well done! (She'spictured here receiving the trophy from President EleanorLake.)

The U3A Bowls Group will be moving indoors commencingTuesday 15th October (2.30 to 4.00pm) weekly until 15thMarch 2014 at the Lammas Sport and Leisure Centre, Sutton.

New members are very welcome so come along and have ago; coaching and equipment (bowls) is available. Bowlingindoors is an ideal way to discover whether it’s for you.

Give me a ring on 01623 628946 if you'd like to know more.Don Wright

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Reading Group 1SINCE the first meeting of Reading Group 1 in April 2001, when we read Alice in Wonderland. wehave read over 160 books, both classic and modern; all of them interesting and most of themenjoyable. We have read several biographies but most of the books we read are fiction.

We now have a couple of vacancies in this group so if anyone is interested in joining us please giveyour name and phone number to Joy Crowe or Sylvia Slack at the September AGM.

We meet once a month on the third Thursday, 2pm - 4pm, usually in Farnsfield but sometimes atother members' homes. The books are provided by Farnsfield Library.

At our friendly meetings, we have tea or coffee and then we discuss the book we have read theprevious month; we are then given the book we will read in time for the next meeting.

If you can’t make the meeting, our numbers are: Joy, 645400 and Sylvia, 633981.Joy Crowe

StrollersAPPROXIMATELY 19 eager strollers met at the Teversal Trail Visitors Centre on Wednesday 14August. The day was fine and the walk took us along the Phoenix Greenways.

This is a network of trails linking the five pits, Silverhill and Pleasley – the Teversal Trails. Theseeasy-access routes and quiet lanes are amidst local countryside, which are being preserved bymeans of country parks and wildlife reserves. Like Phoenix rising from the ashes, nature flourisheswith our care.

We tramped through a very large field, which had obviouslybeen the domain of our bovine friends, if the cow-pats wereanything to go by.

We trod precariously amongst them and finally reached amoderately challenging style. Helping hands were there toassist those of us who were not so nimble and a five-minutebreather was enjoyed on the other side.

A few members wanted to look in the pretty church, but thedoor was locked, so on we went towards the Coal Garden.This was a memorial to the pits and machinery, etc. whichhas been excellently maintained by various bodies who arepart of the Phoenix Greenways Partnership.

Then it was time for a cuppa in the Visitor Centre café. Thanks to Barbara and Marion who alwaystry these walks out before taking us, to ensure we go the right distance and the whole experience isa pleasurable stroll.Linda Spray More photos on the website ...

Writing for PleasureWRITING FOR PLEASURE has been just that, a real pleasure over the past year. We celebratedour first birthday in July with most of our original members, all of whom make the afternoon reallyenjoyable for us too (two). The two-hour sessions pass very quickly, as there is much laughter andfrivolity as well as more serious creativity.

We have covered a wide range of topics, such as Poetry, Short Stories, Lonely Hearts Ads andTravel Articles, to name just a few.

We just wanted to let everyone know that we are so happy that we decided to start a new group!Hilary and Sue

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______________________________________________________________________________Speakers' CornerOUR speaker next month will be Kay Adlington.______________________________________________________________________________Dates for your diary (Check the website for more information and updates.)Tues. 27th Sept: INVITATION: Ashfield U3A invite you to "Antiques Road Show" at the Ashwood Centre, Kirkby in Ashfield. Details from Kathleen Jones (550740) or Gill Knight (01773 778115) Fri. 8th Nov.: Group Leaders’ Meeting at the Stanhope Centre. 10.00 am. Apologies and Items for Agenda to Chairman Glenis Carr (627735) by Saturday October 27th.Mon. 2nd Dec: CHRISTMAS LUNCH at the Oakham Suite. 12.30 for 1.00. Details from Norma Shillinglaw (466934). Sat. 22nd Feb. 2014: FUN QUIZ NIGHT. More details soon _________________________________________________________________________

Event and Visit PaymentsMEMBERS are reminded that deposits and payments for events and visits organised by MansfieldU3A and its interest groups are non-refundable, but places so reserved may be offered to others.______________________________________________________________________________Changes of address, etc.PLEASE contact the membership secretary, Avril McGee (01623 452688), if you've changed youraddress, phone number or email since joining Mansfield U3A so that she can update our records.______________________________________________________________________________DisclaimerTHE VIEWS expressed here are those of the contributors, only, and do not necessarily reflect thoseof the editor, the committee of Mansfield U3A or the Third Age Trust. Nor can any responsibility beaccepted for members' announcements or any errors that may occur.______________________________________________________________________________Next IssuePLEASE SEND contributions for the October issue to mansfieldu3a@aol.com, or intypescript, to the editor as soon as you can and by 1st October at the latest. Thanks!______________________________________________________________________________

Editor: David Ling (01623 822994) Printed by: Portland Print (www.portlandprint.org.uk/)

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