http://region1.us.mensa.orgRSS feeds for American Mensa Region 160http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/19/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--December-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=19http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=19&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/19/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--December-2004.aspxOnce again Boston Mensa put on a Regional Gathering to bring smiles to all attendees. From the very young to the young at heart, there was something for everyone. One of the few RGs where children attend in significant numbers, the Kid's Room was the site of paper airplane and seasonal wreath making, a baking class, and age-appropriate videos, as well the kiddie mealtimes. A big tip o' the hat goes to Chris and Dave Picard who coordinated the Kid's Room, and to all the parents and friends who gave so generously of their time and expertise. Friday night's activities included karaoke, and yours truly (after several liquid libations) took to the mike with my rendition of Janis Joplin's "Take a Little Piece of My Heart". Even I cannot, in good consciousness, call what I did "singing". Saturday night's talent show revealed a wealth of real talent. Region 1 must hold some kind of talent record: we have four Presidents/LocSecs who are professional singers: John Baumann (New Hampshire), Paul Mailman (Boston), Tom Padwa (Rhode Island), and Michelle Wojtaszek (Mid-Hudson). Paul and Tom did solos and also sang together, with encore requests. With another nod to regional talent, by now you all must have seen the November/December issue of the Mensa Bulletin, with Michelle Wojtaszek on the cover. Congratulations Michelle! She certainly marches to the beat of her own drummer- she is, in fact, the drummer in her group, Abominatrix. The AMC (American Mensa Committee) quarterly meeting was held in Orlando Florida at the Disney World Coronado Springs Resort, the site of the 2006 World Gathering. Many of the motions passed pertained to eliminating a lot of the micromanagement and administrivia that had crept into the Communications area (Mensa publications and website primarily). Despite the unfortunate resignation of Tim Folks, the former Communications Officer, I was pleased to be a sponsor of his legacy: better and more efficient governance. Robin Crawford, Chicago Mensa's President, was appointed to serve the remainder of the Communications Officer's term. Central Alabama Mensa won the bid for the 2007 Annual Gathering to be held in Birmingham Alabama. Fort Worth Texas lost in a very close race. In Old Norse, the term "ves heill" means "be of good health"; the Old English transliterated it to "wes hal". The term was associated with both a spiced mulled beer punch and the tradition of going door to door on Christmas Eve, greeting one's neighbours and drinking to their health. This wassail is made with wine, since finding beer that warms up nicely is difficult (Canada's Quelque Chose, a cherry beer from the Unibroue brewery, is a great choice but hard to find). Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday season and the best for 2005!: Wassail 4 cinnamon sticks 1 lemon, sliced horizontally 1 cup sugar ½ cup water 6 cups dry red wine 2 cups pineapple juice 2 cups orange juice 1 cup sweet sherry Bring the cinnamon, lemon, sugar and water to a boil, and cook until slightly thickened. Take care not to burn the mixture. In a large non-reactive pot, heat the wine, juices and sherry until hot. Add the syrup. This tastes even better when it has been allowed to stand and mellow. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanWed, 01 Dec 2004 20:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:19http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/18/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--November-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=18http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=18&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/18/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--November-2004.aspxThis month's column salutes some dedicated members across Region 1 who have used their "smarts" in many wonderful and diverse ways: Baril Bromley of New Hampshire & Maine Mensa worked with the FNX Radio Network (broadcast throughout the Boston area as well as southern Maine and New Hampshire). She obtained a sample test from the national office that was administered not only to the morning drive show's studio workers, but also as an on-air quiz for a tickets giveaway for listeners. According to the producer of "The Swasey Show", "...the phones lit up. Our winner was very impressive, coming up with correct answer after correct answer even while stuck in traffic. I suggested he check out your website and get in on National Test Day." Publicity like this is priceless! Way to go, Baril! In the same group, John Bauman who is not only the President/LocSec but a proctor as well, proctored a reporter from the Nashua (New Hampshire) Telegraph in preparation for National Testing Day (NTD). A great article appeared in the paper, with a positive Mensa slant. If it hasn't been archived, you can read the article on taking the Mensa qualifying test by clicking on the link. Congratulations John and all the hardworking proctors in New Hampshire & Maine Mensa who even got as far north as Bangor Maine on NTD! Speaking of NTD kudos, a tip o' the hat goes to Connecticut & Western Massachusetts Mensa had 37 (!) candidates for NTD. A round of applause to Dick Dolliver, proctor coordinator and his proctors in C&WM! The week before NTD, I attended C&WM's MensAutumn RG in Cromwell CT. All attendees agreed that the speaker highlight was 13 year-old member Christian Burns, who gave standing room only fascinating lecture on owls, the Mensa mascot. Christian, who's a sophomore in college (yes, 13 and a college sophomore) illustrated his 1½ hour presentation with beautiful slides and graphics, all of which he had compiled. He also brought owl skeletons and feathers for audience perusal. The Q&A was handled with aplomb, even questions asking about owl mating habits and gender differentiation. Bravo Christian! We are already looking forward to your next presentation! Down in the southern part of the region, DiAnne Chamberlain and Keith Armonaitis of Northern New Jersey Mensa, produced the second in their group's Distinguished Lecture Series. The subject was Paleontology, and the duo had assembled a stellar panel of experts. Attendees, who included many juvenile Mensans, were treated to discussions on the Politics in Paleontology, the Aurora Excavation site in North Carolina (with an accompanying video), and some of the controversies and theories surrounding dinosaur paleontology. A lively Q&A was followed by a hands-on exhibit of fossils from the panelists' personal collections. Everyone got a souvenir fossil to take home: mine is a shark tooth from the early Pliocene era found in the Lee Creek Mine in Aurora. I had to miss the first lecture on Astronomy because of the March AMC meeting, but hopefully will have no date conflicts for future presentations. Huge plaudits go to DiAnne and Keith for the hard work they did producing this lecture! I urge all of you to watch for news of the next lecture and try to attend. And in the Miracles Can Happen Department: Whadda ‘bout those Red Sox???? The Curse Of The Bambino is Lifted! (As a Mets fan, I know about baseball miracles......) A specialty of the Limousin region of central France, the clafoutis was traditionally made with the first red cherries of summer. Now the clafoutis is made with any type of seasonal fruit, so here's a perfect late fall brunch or dinner dessert: Cranberry Clafoutis 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing pan) 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 cup flour 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk Pinch salt 2 cups cranberries 1 cup (scant) walnuts Confectioners' sugar Heat the oven to 425 degrees F. Butter a deep 9- or 10-inch pie plate or a gratin dish of similar size. Sprinkle it with a tablespoon or so of sugar, then swirl dish to coat evenly. Invert to remove excess. Beat eggs well, then add remaining sugar. Beat until smooth. Add flour, and beat again until smooth. Add the half-and-half or milk and salt, and whisk until smooth. Coarsely chop cranberries and walnuts. If using a food processor, do not overprocess — just pulse until chopped. (It's very fast.) Put cranberry mixture in pie plate, and pour batter over it. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until clafoutis is nicely browned on top and a knife inserted into it comes out clean. Sift some confectioners' sugar over it, and serve warm or at room temperature. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanMon, 01 Nov 2004 19:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:18http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/17/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--October-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=17http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=17&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/17/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--October-2004.aspxSeptember started off on a glorious note as I journeyed up to the scenic foothills of the Catskills, joining Mid-Hudson Mensa's 17th "Autumn in New York" Regional Gathering. Actually the weather was wonderful late summer: azure blue skies, coolish nights, and not too many mosquitos. This RG featured games of all genres from a 3-D puzzle of Notre Dame, a Yahtzee/Cosmic Wimpout/Quiddler triathlon, to a Saturday night game show that combined elements of the TV shows ‘Survivor' and the original ‘Match Game' from the 1960s. Competition was merciless - the winner voted her own husband off! Gourmet quality food from a Culinary Institute of America trained chef: meal choices for carnivores included steak and grilled pastrami sandwiches, while the veggie folk supped on ginger marinated tempeh and stuffed portobello mushrooms. If that weren't enough, we got to see the SUNY New Paltz swim team and I can personally testify that the guys were in really great shape.... This RG is an all round winner: mark your calendars now for September 9 - 11 2005. The next weekend saw me in Portland Oregon for a quarterly AMC (American Mensa Committee - Mensa's board of directors) meeting. I flew in a day early to do a little sightseeing and was totally enchanted. Portland has HUGE trees (imagine a city full of pines and spruces the size of the Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree). It is an excellent example good urban planning: streets and transit choices are clearly marked; traveling is easy via public transportation (free in the city centre) or bicycle - it is the most "bike friendly" city in the U.S. The Rose Garden is not to be missed, and of course for the biblioholic, there's Powell's City of Books. Words cannot do it justice. I wisely limited myself to cash purchases, knowing that if I took out a credit card, the frenzy would not be controllable. Friday was spent in a planning session, which to the surprise of many, was quite productive. "Slimming down" the Mensa administration and structure and revising RVC and group funding were just two of the many issues we tackled. Some items that were approved at Saturday's AMC meeting were: a new 401(k) plan administrator (currently Mensa was sponsoring its own), which will save money and eliminate liability. continuation of INTERLOC publication with The Joyce ('TJ') Lundeen as editor. simplifying the Gatherings processes. As some of you know, groups no longer have to fill in paper RG Approval forms and send them to their RVC for approval, who in turn would have to mail copies to the Membership Officer and Bulletin Editor. An RG Approval& Gatherings Listing Request form is now available online. I volunteered to act as the RVC representative to the ongoing form design and process. starting 1 July 2005, the Hospitality Chair of any Annual Gathering (AG), Regional Gathering(RG), Leadership Development Workshop (LDW), or Colloquium must have completed a governmental or Mensa food safety course. Mensa will be purchasing food safety textbooks to accompany its food safety course. The certification does not require that the Hospitality Chair must prepare all of the food at an event; it is merely to ensure that the sponsoring group has furnished food under the supervision of a person (or persons) trained in food safety. Groups are encouraged to have as many members who are interested get certified to avoid relying on one person. SIGs will be limited to American Mensa members, whose member status will be verified by American Mensa. SIG Coordinators may elect to allow members of international Mensas and non Mensans to participate as guests. The Mensa Foundation will consider changing its requirement that applicants for Mensa scholarships live in an area where the local group is participating in the yearly scholarship essay contest. Since about 40% of local groups do not participate, individuals are penalised. I have long spoken out about this unfairness, which is also, I think, can gives a poor image of Mensa to the public. The main issues are who would read these ‘unaffiliated' essays and how much more monies would be eventually disbursed. New York has some of the best apples in the world. The Dutch were its first settlers. As an autumnal/Hallowe'en treat, here are: Chocolade Appeltjes (Little Chocolate Apples) 12 Lady (or 6 Liberty) apples 2 cups sugar ½ cup corn syrup 1 cup milk 3 oz. unsweetened chocolate 2 oz. (½ stick) butter 1 tsp. vanilla [optional: ¼ tsp. cinnamon and/or 1/8 tsp. mace] Insert wooden skewer (pointy chopsticks work well) into stem end of each apple. Combine remaining ingredients, except vanilla [and spice(s)], in medium-sized heavy saucepan. Cook until a hard ball forms when a small amount of mixture is dropped in cold water (246 degrees F. on your candy thermometer). Remove from heat and add vanilla [and spice(s)]. Place on sheet of waxed or parchment paper to cool. For overkill, roll in coconut, chopped nuts, chocolate sprinkles, etc. before cooling. Eet smakelijk! Marghretta McBeanFri, 01 Oct 2004 19:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:17http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/16/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--September-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=16http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=16&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/16/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--September-2004.aspxAs summer is winding down, New York City is wound up. The Republicans are here. The good news is that there is practically no vehicular traffic in midtown and the streets are fairly empty. The bad news is that there is practically no vehicular traffic in midtown and the streets are fairly empty. The purported millions that the convention would bring to the Big Apple are just that, purported. So far the marches and demonstrations have been colourful, reminding me of my old college days. There has been quite a bit going on in our region this summer, besides the elephants' visitation. Leo Kellogg, the historian of Mensa of Northeastern New York (MoNNY), organised the first Mensa event ever held in Plattsburgh, NY. This far north city near the Canadian border was the site of an international dinner: Mensans from Canada as well as other groups attended. Leo and all of the MoNNYers deserve two very big thumbs up for taking on what proved to be a highly successful project! I traveled northeast, to Providence, Rhode Island, visiting Rhode Island Mensa. Tom Padwa, the president, organised a tri-group (Boston; Connecticut & Western Massachusetts) outing to the absolutely wonderful WaterFire celebration. It is impossible to really describe WaterFire : imagine huge braziers placed at regular intervals in the river, which are lit at sundown. In addition, beautiful music, mimes, fire eaters, mermaids, dancers, - you name it - perform on the river bank and adjoining streets. It is totally enchanting and mesmerising. Over two dozen Mensans (including a couple from Florida) enjoyed the festivities. Kudos to Tom and the gracious RIMers for hosting what hopefully will become an annual Mensan event! On a personal culinary note, Tom also makes great waffles-YUM!) From September 16th to the 19th I will be in Portland Oregon attending an AMC (American Mensa Committee) meeting. As your representative to Mensa's national board, I will be voting on items that will affect you and your relationship to Mensa. The continuing question of how SIGs (Special Interest Groups) will be administered; requiring a Hospitality Chair to complete a food safety course prior holding a gathering or workshop; having two AMC meetings at the national office in Texas; these are just some of the items on the agenda. It is really gratifying to meet members who actually try out my monthly recipes. If you missed any, you can find them (with pictures) on the Region 1 website: http://region1.us.mensa.org/. This month we visit the Balkan area.Ajvar is a staple in the Balkan area. From Macedonia to Bulgaria,this condiment appears at nearly every meal. There are many versions of ajvar, but all taste wonderful. AJVAR       12 fresh red chile peppers* (hot or sweet) 4 medium eggplants ¾ cup olive oil 1 large onion, minced 3 large garlic cloves, chopped 2 Tbl. lemon juice 2 Tbl. red wine [red wine vinegar may be substituted] Salt/pepper to taste         Roast the peppers and eggplant over charcoal or gas flame, or bake in a preheated oven at 475° F. until the skins are blistered and black. Place the roasted vegetables in a paper bag and let them steam in their own heat for 10 minutes. Peel off and discard the burnt skins along with the stems and seeds. Mash the pepper and eggplant pulp together to form a homogeneous mass, either smooth or slightly chunky, as desired. Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a large skillet and saute the onion until very soft. Add the garlic and cook 2 minutes longer. Remove from heat and stir in the pepper-eggplant pulp, mixing well. Slowly drizzle remaining oil into the mixture, stirring constantly to incorporate all the oil. Add lemon juice and wine; salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with parsley. Serve as an appetiser spread on thick slices of country-style white bread. *Good peppers are essential to this dish. Most of the red bell peppers sold today have little taste. If you can find Pimiento, Poblano (they turn red when ripe), or for you heat-lovers, Fresno chiles, this dish will become addictive. The small Hungarian Pimientos are especially delicious. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanWed, 01 Sep 2004 19:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:16http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/15/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--August-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=15http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=15&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/15/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--August-2004.aspxIt's Summertime and the livin' doesn't seem quite as easy as it was when Gershwin wrote the tune. More and more people I meet have (or have just) been laid off. The separation packages are getting more and more meagre. However, the tourists are back with a vengeance here in New York City and judging by their numbers and sizes, there are folks who are doing quite well economically. We've had so much rain that tomato plants are full of leaf rot (being watered at night is literally death to pommes d'amour). And the Republicans ( and armed troops, surveillance helicopters, and "frozen zones") are coming to New York City. On a happier note, I had a lovely visit to Syracuse, and met the charming members of Central New York Mensa. Paul Baxter (President) and his lovely wife Victoria Monroe (Vice President) were the epitome of hospitality. As the featured speaker at their meeting, I got a chance to answer questions about the structure of the AMC (American Mensa Committee), the future of SIGs (Special Interest Groups), and a host of others. A new member remarked that she found it difficult to understand the acronyms in Mensa publications (like RVC, AMC, AG, etc.), with another new member concurring. It's always important for any group to remember that not everyone is an "oldie", so including the full name of something as well as its abbreviation can go a long way in help the newcomers feel like welcome. I got a chance to visit the Jerry Rescue Monument on Victoria's mini tour of Syracuse. It movingly commemorates the rescue of an imprisoned fugitive slave, William "Jerry" Henry. On the first of October, 1851, Syracusans stormed his jail cell and help him to escape to freedom along the Underground Railroad. Syracuse was unique for its strong leadership against slavery and the stands that many of its citizens took in helping runaways escape to freedom. Its Syracuse Vigilance Committee was formed in 1850. The Wesleyan Methodist Church was a stop on the Underground Railroad and the Plymouth Congregational Church was the site of the first anti-slavery convention, at which Frederick Douglass, among other noted abolitionists, spoke. Having received requests from two young Mensans to spread information about their groups, here are the details: Lauren M. Rahn, the Editrix, of The Oracle (Orange County [CA] Mensa), is asking Mensans born between 1976 and 1984, to get in touch with her, via email or by visiting her GenYM website at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GenYMs/ Marie Routhier, a member of Mensa Toronto, in Canada, is an active member of SAGE, a local young-adult M group, and will be starting THYME (http://www.thymenl.ca), a sister group to SAGE. SAGE has a brand new message board for young Mensans, located at http://www.thymenl.ca/SAGEboard , and it is open to young Ms around the world.   Here's a spicy and cooling dessert for the dog days of summer: Ginger-Mint Gel 2 large bunches mint 1 5-inch piece ginger root, peeled and sliced thin 1 cup sugar ½ teaspoon salt 2 envelopes (2 Tbl.) unflavoured gelatin Place mint, ginger, 4 ½ cups water, sugar and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, and set aside to steep until cool Strain liquid into a large bowl, and discard mint and ginger. (Actually it's good to eat. Waste not, want not...) Measure 1 cup of the infused liquid into a bowl and sprinkle with gelatin. Set aside. Bring 3 cups of reserved liquid to a boil; add to gelatin mixture, stirring until gelatin dissolves. Pour into a 13- x 9-inch pan. Cover and refrigerate until set. Unmould by dipping the bottom of the pan into hot water, and cut into cubes. Serve with Ginger Cream (below) and fresh berries. Ginger Cream 1 cup heavy cream 2 Tbl. confectioners sugar, sifted 2 2-inch pieces candied (crystallised) ginger, chopped fine Whip cream with sugar until it holds medium-soft peaks. Fold in ginger. Marghretta McBeanSun, 01 Aug 2004 19:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:15http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/14/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--July-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=14http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=14&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/14/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--July-2004.aspxJune started off with a wonderful astronomical show: Venus transiting across the Sun, viewable from the Earth. The last time this happened was in 1882! Living in midtown New York City precludes star gazing due to all of the ambient light from buildings, billboards, etc. but a short walk to Central Park's Sheep Meadow can give very good viewing conditions. In true New York City fashion, there were at least 200 other "Venus Viewers" out in the early dawn hours of June 8th. There was even a group of women clad in togae singing a Venusian song. At least I think it was Venusian and that they were women.... Moving to more terrestrial matters, I have just returned from the Annual Gathering in Las Vegas. Having never been to Sin City, it was a memorable trip. "Over the top" doesn't begin to describe the sights. I, however, couldn't help but think of the billion of gallons of water consumed each day to give this desert city its sparkle. My daughter, who visited the Hoover Dam while I was in meetings, said the level there is dangerously low. At the Annual Business Meeting, held 1 July, the motion to amend Mensa's Certificate of Incorporation was approved, following the submission by the Secretary of our proxies. Mensa can now legitimately conduct corporate matters with a minimum of 100 members voting, either in person or by proxy. The ProxyQuest team was enthusiastically thanked for their work, as well as all of those who submitted their proxies. Region 1 had some plaudits at the Awards Luncheon. Angela Tremain, the editor of Mid-Hudson Mensa's Mid-Mensan, won in the PRP (Publication Recognition Programme) Newsletter's Special Mention Category. Misha's Vineyard Players captained by Greg Draves of Greater New York Mensa scored in tenth place for this year's CultureQuest competition. John G. DiLiberto of Greater New York Mensa won the National Chair's Service Award for his work in guiding the AMC through the complexities of risk management. Congratulations to you all!!! A dues increase effective 1 April 2005, was approved at the American Mensa Committee meeting. Local group support was increased to $8.64 (up from $8.15) per member per year. Mike Siegler, Region 3's Vice Chair, asked why local groups can't get more. After much discussion, it was decided to revisit the whole group allocation issue at the next AMC meeting in Portland Oregon in September. It seems the formula of one-sixth of the national budget for local group support was created over thirty years ago! The status of AML SIGs was discussed again. The definition of SIG member was debated, with the majority feeling that only a Mensa member can be a SIG member (I did not agree). The method of validating SIG members has yet to be decided and there are numerous issues attached to it. The definition of a SIG guest as well as procedures to deny admission or remove SIG members will be discussed at the next AMC meeting. No group has submitted a bid for the 2007 AG. I noted that Region 1's groups are reluctant without full support from the National Office for hotel negotiations, hospitality, etc. The burden placed on a local group to produce a full blown convention has become the topic of a study by the National Office. Hopefully a more efficacious method can be found. Mensa World Connect is looking for more "sister" groups. This programme matches similarly sized groups in the US and abroad. Members correspond with each other, individually and as a group, and often arrange meetings in each other's country. It's summer time and that means cool drinks. Here's an African version of a classic:: Moroccan Lemonade 1 lb. lemons, preferably thin-skinned, well washed and rinsed 1 lb. sugar 12 mint leaves [optional] Cut up lemons [and mint] and place in food processor. Add sugar. Process on "chop" for about 2 minutes, or until mixture is thick and no pieces of lemon can be seen. (Do this in batches if your processor is small). Scrape mixture into large bowl or jar. Add enough boiling water to cover and stir well. Let mixture steep at room temperature several hours or overnight. If you're fussy, strain out the seeds. However, seed spitting contests are a summer tradition for many. Add enough cold water to bring to your desired level of sweetness. Moroccans serve this with very little added water, but they have incredible sweet teeth. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanThu, 01 Jul 2004 19:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:14http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/13/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--June-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=13http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=13&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/13/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--June-2004.aspxRegion 1 has a Treasure Trove of Talent! The 2004 PRP (Publication Recognition Programme) Contribution Award Nominations have been announced and our nominees are: in the category of Fiction and Poetry: "Murder at the Chessboard", by Stanley Smith. (Beacon, newsletter of Boston Mensa, Lynn MacDonald editor. May 2003.) "The Joshua Twin", and "The Pond" by John McGondel. (Momentum, newsletter of New Hampshire Mensa, Claire T. Natola editor. March 2004 and November 2003, respectively.) There are five nominees in this category and two of them are John! New Hampshire air must be good for poets.   in the category of Non-Fiction (Mensa themed): "My First Autumn in New York", by Jeff Jones. (Mid-Mensan, newsletter of Mid-Hudson Mensa, Angela Tremain editor. October 2003.). Jeff wrote about attending his first RG, Mid-Hudson Mensa's unique camp-style RG held on the beautiful grounds of the Ashokan Reservoir.   in the category of Continuing Item: "Five-Minute Mini Mysteries", by Stanley Smith. (Beacon, newsletter of Boston Mensa, Lynn MacDonald editor. April 2003, May 2003, July 2003, September 2003, January 2004.) Yes, Stan is nominated in two (!!) categories. Very mysterious...... "Mmmm…," by Victoria Monroe. (Empire, newsletter of Central New York Mensa, Paul Baxter editor. August 2003, September 2003, November 2003.) Victoria's column, sometimes hilarious, always interesting, reveals an eye for the things that often pass without comment - until she writes about them.   As your RVC, I get all of the newsletters in our region and read every one, cover to cover. They keep me fairly up to date on group happenings, politics and just the joie de vivre that is Mensa. In other congratulatory news, 16 year-old Life Member Kathryn McNickle of Greater New York Mensa was accepted into the prestigious MIT Summer Mathematics programme. Students from around the country spend about six weeks at the MIT campus studying various fields of mathematics. Her proud grandmother, Clotilde Cepeda, is Greater New York Mensa's award winning proctor coordinator. I had a lovely visit to Albany and Troy, meeting with the members of Mensa of Northeastern New York. Joe O'Malley, who works in the state senate, gave me an insider's tour of the beautiful Capitol building and Empire State Plaza. The gold leaf accents, intricate wood work and marble floors made me (briefly!) feel that my tax dollars were well spent. After crossing the Hudson to neighbouring Troy (the "Shirt Collar Capital of the World"), about dozen and a half MoNNYers met for dinner at a landmark restaurant. Members got to ask me questions about the workings of the AMC (American Mensa Committee, Mensa's Board of Directors) and current issues. At dessert time, the lights went out and I was presented with an enormous whipped cream covered cake, candles blazing, as a late birthday celebration! What a surprise! Everyone had big slices (natch!) and I took the remainder back home, where it lasted three whole days - by limiting myself to one slice per day. Thanks a million to President/LocSec Judy Keating and her friendly group! As the weather warms up, here's something cool to eat: Bitter Chocolate Sorbet 1 cup milk ¾ cup sugar ¼ cup good cocoa powder 5 ounces bittersweet chocolate (e.g. Valrhona, Scharffen Berger, Callebaut) 2 cups water Bring milk and sugar to just under a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low, and whisk in cocoa powder until smooth. Cook at a gentle simmer for 15 minutes, stirring often. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler. Slowly whisk in the cocoa mixture and water. Chill thoroughly (set over ice water to speed this up). Transfer to ice-cream machine and process. (You can also partially freeze the mixture, then beat it smooth and return to freezer.) Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanTue, 01 Jun 2004 19:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:13http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/12/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--May-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=12http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=12&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/12/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--May-2004.aspxIt's Taurus Time!!! That special season when spring is truly established, Venus is high in the heavens and yet another year is added to mi vida loca. The happiest of birthdays to all of you fellow bulls, and particularly to Oleg Bayborodin, Lorenzo Perez, and Frank Solensky of Boston Mensa; Walter Galanek, Kenneth Garee, Jeffrey Kochosky, and Jack Peregrim of Connecticut/Western Massachusetts Mensa; KevinThompson and Salvatore Negri of Greater New York Mensa; Marvin Murdock of New Hampshire/Maine Mensa; Alex Peters, Stacy Statkus, and Harvey Nisselson of Northern New Jersey Mensa; Joseph Rapczak of Rhode Island Mensa; and Jacques DuPuis of Vermont Mensa - you all share that Best Birthday Of All: May7th! Many, many Happy Returns! May is also the month to salute mothers. As we mothers all know, Mother's Day is every day of the year - one never stops being a mommy. The changing joys are what make it worthwhile: sleeping through the night, first day of school, college graduation, first job - all road marks that a mother treasures. Although the definition of mother is being constantly stretched - "birth" vs. "egg donor" vs. "parental" - acknowledgment to our X gene donors is in order, and to those (if not of the former group) who are related to us by love and devotion. People often pronounce my name "mar-gar-ita" or "mar-guer-eet". My standard response is "I'm neither a drink nor a flower". (My name is pronounced "mar-gret-tah"). However, I do enjoy the (almost) eponymous drink and here's my version: Marghretta Margarita (makes enough to get the party started: 1 1/2 quarts) 3 cups passion fruit juice 1 lime, juiced 2 1/2 cups good quality reposado tequila (e.g. Herradura) 1/2 cup Grand Marnier Raspberries, for garnish [optional] Combine all ingredients and stir well. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use. Pour into margarita glasses over ice. Garnish with raspberries. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanSat, 01 May 2004 19:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:12http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/11/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--April-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=11http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=11&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/11/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--April-2004.aspxSpring has supposedly sprung, but as I write this in early April, the temperature is hovering at freezing, with wind chills in the twenties. The soil in my garden plot is icy and rock hard; no early tomatoes this year! Charlottesville Virginia, however, was full of budding trees while I was down there for the AMC meeting March 20th - 22nd. Topics covered included increasing the prior evidence fee to $30; a motion to increase dues to $52 beginning in 2005 was postponed as one to increase the local group subsidy to $8.64/member; and what has drawn a great deal of attention, that SIGs (Special Interest Groups) be made a membership benefit (for reasons too numerous to mention here, I abstained from the vote). This action, which came at the recommendation of the SIGs Committee following the Risk Management Report, has generated enormous discussion among many members. Details are to be presented at a later date. Also, following the recommendation of the AAA (American Arbitration Association) Task Force, of which I am a member (I was an arbitrator in a past life), a choice of arbitration for finding of fact will be offered to someone against whom charges have been leveled. April 2nd - 4th found me up in Manchester Connecticut where Connecticut & Western Massachusetts Mensa hosted a wonderful Region 1 Leadership Development Workshop. Representatives from New Hampshire/Maine, Boston, Northeastern New York, Vermont, Mid-Hudson, Greater New York and of course, C&WM Mensas convened for a weekend of workshops covering topics ranging from Financial Basics to Getting PR for Mensa to Dealing with Problem Members. Stellar presenters included our president Dr. Jean Becker, Cookie Bakke the Bulletin associate editor, and Catherine Barney, Mensa's PR manager. Dr. Deborah Ruf , the national Gifted Children Program Coordinator, led a Gifted Children track in which several children and their parents participated. A HUGE tip o' the hat goes to C&WM Mensa for the excellent job they did in planning and hosting! My end of the fiscal year allocations to the groups who expressed an interest were: Boston Mensa - $100 (RG supplies: $50 for a crockpot + $50 for game containers) Central New York Mensa - $125 (newsletter production: copy of Adobe Acrobat Professional) Connecticut & Western Massachusetts Mensa - $100 (promotional video and cable TV show) Greater New York Mensa - $106.37 (Peggy Deane Memorial Scholarship Fund) Mid-Hudson Mensa - $75 (non-specified) Mensa of Northeastern New York - $100 (items from Mensa Boutique for speakers, Anniversary Picnic etc.) New Hampshire Mensa - $95 ($20 reimbursement for postage and copying costs + $75 non-specified) Eggs are a symbol of spring and renewal. Here they are in a classic Italian soup. Stracciatelle ("rags") alla romana 6 cups broth 2 cups chopped fresh spinach 2 eggs 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese grated rind of 1 lemon salt and pepper to taste juice of ½ lemon (about 1 Tbl.) Bring broth to a slow boil and add spinach. In a bowl thoroughly blend eggs, cheese, lemon rind, salt and pepper. Lower heat under broth and as soon as it stops boiling add egg mixture. Turn up heat and stir. Add lemon juice and serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanThu, 01 Apr 2004 19:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:11http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/10/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--March-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=10http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=10&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/10/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--March-2004.aspxIn Mensa-land, March is the last month of the year. Our fiscal and membership year begin on 1 April. Now is the time to renew your membership and for me to settle my RVC accounts. Each RVC gets a budget based on the number of members and number of groups in her/his region. Budgeted monies must be spent by 31 March, or they are forfeited. In the next few weeks I will be looking at local groups to see if there are any small projects that could benefit from my remaining funds. Vermont Mensa has been getting a lot of attention from me lately. Its acting Chair stepped down as of 1 March and under Mensa's Bylaws, I have assumed temporary administration, pending appointment of a pro tem Chair and eventual elections. While small, the Vermont group has some very vibrant and involved members, and I am hoping that soon the chapter will be in good health. I spent a really wonderful day with Northern New Jersey Mensa, at their Mid-Winter Blahs Party. They had originally planned a mini-RG, and when that proved unfeasible, made it a day-long free party. Speakers, a Google marathon, and plenty of refreshments kept everyone in high spirits. This group is also the second in our region to "go digital" using the Post Office as both printer and mailer for their newsletter IMprint. After they assemble their articles and pictures, a digital file is uploaded to a secure US Postal Service (USPS) website, along with a member file. It is printed and mailed within 24 hours. No more "Fold Spindle and Mutilate" monthly gatherings! Northern New Jersey joins Rhode Island Mensa (newsletter M'Ocean) in Region 1's digital USPS revolution. By the time most of you read this, I will be at (or back from) the American Mensa Committee meeting in Charlottesville Virginia. Items on the agenda include adoption of a new budget, using outside arbitrators at hearings, and appointment of a Nominating Committee, which will be selecting candidates for next year's elections. Here's a bit of green for St. Patrick's Day and/or the spring equinox. The word 'colcannon' is from the Gaelic cál ceannann which literally means ‘white-headed cabbage'. However, the 'cannon' part of the name might be a derivative of the old Irish cainnenn, translated variously as garlic, onion, or leek. It can be suggested that in its earliest form colcannon may have been a simple mixture of some brassica [cabbage, kale, collard greens, etc.] and allium [onions, garlic, leeks, shallots, etc.] COLCANNON 4 pounds new gold potatoes [these mash very nicely], cut into small cubes - do *not* peel! 1 pound chopped mustard greens [or try kale, collard or turnip greens]; frozen will do nicely 8 large scallions about 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil white pepper kosher salt Chop the green parts of the scallions into small pieces. place in large mixing bowl with the oil and about 1 teaspoon white pepper. Steam the potatoes with about 1 teaspoon salt. Remove the potatoes from the steam pot and use the potato water to steam the greens. Frozen greens will take about 5 minutes to steam. Adding about 2 cups at a time, mash the hot potatoes in the olive oil mixture. add a little more oil if potatoes don't look fluffy. When potatoes are all mashed, stir in the greens. Pack colcannon into a large glass, stainless steel or non-stick pan which has been greased with olive oil. Cover top with plastic wrap and let stand at room temperature overnight for flavours to develop. In addition to eating at room temperature, colcannon can be eaten hot. You can also pan fry your cold leftovers. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanMon, 01 Mar 2004 20:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:10http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/9/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--February-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=9http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=9&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/9/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--February-2004.aspxAre you Presidential Material (former, now or thinking about it)? Ever wonder what makes Mensa tick? How can your group get and keep members? These and many more topics will be featured at the Leadership Development Workshop to be held April 2 - 4 in Manchester Connecticut, just outside of Hartford. Connecticut & Western Massachusetts Mensa is hosting what promises to be a thought-provoking weekend. Unlike Regional Gatherings where the purpose is 24-hour fun, LDWs help focus on fostering present and emerging Mensan leaders. The skills learned can be used not only within your local group, but also in other facets of your personal and professional life. Mensa's President, Jean Becker Ph.D., will be leading workshops, as will staff from the national office. In what may be a Mensa first, we will be having a Gifted Children track, with gifted children in attendance. Mensans are of all ages, and why just talk about gifted children without their input. We are very fortunate to have Dr. Deborah Ruf, the National Gifted Children Coordinator, who is also a gifted child parent, lead the presentations. Registration information can be downloaded here Membership renewal time is fast upon us. Those of you who have voted your proxy, please don't void it by not renewing. For you proxy fence sitters, please renew your membership and exercise your proxy at the same time (a card is conveniently included in the renewal package). Online voting is available at American Mensa's Proxy website In celebrating Black History Month two relevant quotations come to mind: "We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.", spoken by Martin Luther King, Jr. And from Vladimir Nabokov: "Genius is an African who dreams up snow." Peanuts are a staple of West Africa. Here's an adaptation of Senegalese Peanut Soup 3 Tbl. butter (or peanut oil) 3 Tbl. flour 4 cups milk 1 small chopped onion ¼ tsp. paprika 1 tsp. curry powder 1 tsp. (approx.) salt* 1 cup peanut butter (unsalted chunky; *if you use salted, decrease/eliminate the salt) 3 cups sieved tomatoes (fresh or canned) Melt butter (or heat oil) and add flour, stirring until smooth. Add milk and cook over low heat until slightly thickened, stirring constantly. Add seasonings and blend part of hot mixture with peanut butter; combine with the rest of the hot mixture. Heat tomatoes and add slowly, stirring constantly. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanSun, 01 Feb 2004 20:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:9http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/8/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--January-2004.aspx#Comments0http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=71&ModuleID=409&ArticleID=8http://region1.us.mensa.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=8&PortalID=0&TabID=71http://region1.us.mensa.org/RVCColumns/tabid/71/ctl/ArticleView/mid/409/articleId/8/Whats-Cooking-in-Region-1--January-2004.aspxHappy 2004! Happy Year of the Monkey! May happiness, good health and fortune be with you and yours! I haven't fully recovered from the grueling trip to New Orleans for the last American Mensa Committee (the AMC is the board of directors for American Mensa) meeting, December 11-14. Going down, rain delayed my flight two hours. Coming back, snow and then rain made the four-hour trip stretch to thirteen hours. I arrived home at 2 a.m. to 4 inches of water on my kitchen floor: water had collected on the roof, found a weak spot in my ceiling and poured through. The good news is that my ceiling is now freshly plastered, and I will be getting a new kitchen floor. I did get a little time to walk around the French Quarter, which is as pretty and mysterious as the novels describe it. The AMC meeting spanned almost 12 hours. As they say in diplomatic circles, there were several frank exchanges of opinion. One item of immediate interest is the fact that American Mensa is suing Carlton Books Ltd. (publisher of those Mensa quiz books) for alleged trademark and license infringement. American Mensa believes that Carlton has been using the Mensa name in Great Britain without paying the appropriate fees. This suit will also impact the 2004-5 budget. I created an Adobe .pdf file of the court filing which can be seen (and downloaded). Click here for it. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP UPDATE In addition to topics like "Getting involved at the regional or national level", and "From Agenda to Zany: Fast, Effective Business Meetings" , Dr. Deborah Ruf, the National Gifted Children Coordinator, has graciously offered lead a Gifted Children track. This will be of special interest to not only Gifted Children Coordinators, but the parents of gifted children and gifted children themselves. We will have another national luminary, Dr. Jean Becker, the president of American Mensa, will also be presenting. ProxyQuest If you haven't yet voted, please do so. You can vote online at American Mensa's Proxy website. Cold weather needs something hot to warm you up (it's 1º F. as I write this). Here are two spice mixtures from Africa that will give your meals some heat. Berbere is the national spice mix of Ethiopa. Like curry to Indians, there are many versions. Tabil is the national spice mix of Tunisia. It is especially nice on steamed vegetables. Berbere 1 ½ Tbl. chili powder 2 Tbl. paprika 1 Tbl. onion powder 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. basil ½ tsp. ground ginger ¼ tsp. black pepper 1/8 tsp. each (all ground): cloves, cinnamon, cardamon, nutmeg, allspice, cumin, fenugreek and turmeric Mix together and store in an airtight container. Tabil 1 Tbl. ground coriander seeds 1 tsp. ground caraway seeds ¼ tsp. garlic powder 1/8 tsp. chili powder Use a coffee mill(or mortar and pestle) to grind the seeds. Mix together and store in an airtight container. Per serving: -->Marghretta McBeanThu, 01 Jan 2004 20:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:8