Avenue of Trees, taken by Clive Marner, wins the 'Winter Sun' Photographic
Competition in the East Midlands region.
Regional News
I?m writing this having just returned from a mini-weekend in Northampton and our first regional event for 25 months. A few of us stayed overnight at the hotel and took advantage of the leisure club before strolling into the village of Crick for a lovely dinner at the pub. Prior to our afternoon tea event the officers of East Midlands Mensa met for our annual regional committee meeting. Many thanks to everyone for giving up their Sunday morning to help our region flourish. We have a few ideas for the coming year so watch this space! See a short review of the afternoon event in this issue of Empress. It was so wonderful seeing lots of members in person again. Dare we say normality has resumed!?
There are currently 1,740 members in the East Midlands region. Can you imagine the variety of events if each member hosted just one event per year!?You don?t have to be an officer to host an event and any member can do that. So if you fancy going somewhere or doing something and would like some company why not see if other members would like to join you? Please get in touch with myself or your Local Officer (Jacquie, Susan, Haydn, Jo, Val or Steve) who can help to advertise it. In the meantime we have monthly pub socials, restaurant visits, treasure trails, a book group, boardgames, plus many other activities.
It was clear from our recent regional event that there is demand for events for younger members and families. Christina is our Family Officer but lives in the far north of our region so we are seeking another Family Officer further south to help her out. Please do get in touch with Christina or myself if you might be interested. The role can take as much or as little time as you can spare.
I hope you are able to get out and about this Easter and I hope to see you at one of our events over the summer months. Do get in touch on [Phone Number] or [Email] with comments and suggestions on your membership and future social events.
Maxine Bates
Regional Officer
Editorial
Welcome to the April edition of Empress. Well done to Clive Marner, who won the Winter Sun Photographic Competition for the East Midlands region. His winning entry will now be judged in the National Competition. If you have not already done so then please let the office (membership@mensa.org.uk) know your email address. The regional newsletters are now sent electronically, so it is vital that the office can contact you via email.
Mark Sloan
Roy Latham
Events and Meetings
Derby Diary
On Sat 2nd Apr at 2:00pm - Great British Car Journey
Join us as we visit this tour through British motoring history. It's at Derwent works, Ambergate, DE56 2HE. Tickets cost £15 (Over 65s £13, children aged 5-15 £7, Family ticket £40). Book your own ticket online for the 2pm slot or pay on the day. Meet near reception for 2pm, please let me know if you are thinking of coming. Contact Susan on [Email] or [Phone Number].
On Wed 13th Apr at 1:30pm - Lunch
If you're free daytime, or local and can escape work for an hour or so, join us at Beaurepaire Patisserie, 52 King Street, Belper, DE56 1PL. Free parking nearby. Panini, salads, jacket potatoes, daily specials, homemade cakes, hot/soft drinks and more. We usually have the parlour on the top floor to ourselves. An idea of numbers appreciated so tables can be reserved. Please contact Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] by 8th if possible.
On Wed 20th Apr at 7:30pm - 3WOTM
This month we will be at Mr Grundy's, Ashbourne Road, Derby, DE22 3AD (part of the Georgian House Hotel, entrance round the back). We'll be in our separate room - ask for "Susan's Group". Come along to eat or just for a drink. Separate Pizza menu available as well as pub food. Please let me know if you are thinking of coming. Contact Susan on [Email] or [Phone Number].
Susan Graves
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] / [Mobile Number] for details
Hertfordshire Happenings
On Thu 7th Apr at 8:00pm - FThOTM
This is our monthly meeting at the Three Magnets, in Leys Avenue. This is one of the main shopping streets of Letchworth, and is a short walk from the railway station, which is served by frequent trains between London and Cambridge. Please call or text Steve on [Phone Number], or email [Email] for further information and encouragement.
On Fri 29th Apr at 8:00pm - LFOTM
As ever, we are at the Cowper Arms, Digswell (next to Welwyn North station) from 8 pm. The restriction on numbers has been relaxed, but if you want to come, please can you call me on [Phone Number] by Friday 22 April to give me an indication of who is coming.
Steve Thomas
Contact [Email] or [Mobile Number] for details
In Leicestershire
On Sat 9th Apr at 1:00pm - Treasure Trail
Come and solve the Crumbling Case of Baxter Gates in the town centre. This detective themed treasure trail is on the flat, takes approximately 1.5 hours and is 1.5 miles long to walk. Exact start time and place to be arranged. For further information, contact me before Friday 8th April so I can print enough files out. [Phone Number][Email]
On Mon 18th Apr at 8:00pm - Pub Social
This Easter Monday join me and our friendly group for our usual convivial third Monday of the month gathering at the welcoming Cradock Arms, 201 Knighton Road, Leicester, LE2 3TT. This pub serves Cask and Guest ales and food if you want it. Look out for the Mblem or Magazine. If you need any directions or encouragement, please contact me on [Phone Number] or at [Email].
On Sat 30th Apr at 7:00pm - Pub meal
We're meeting at the Britannia Inn, 47 Main Street, Queniborough LE7 3DB There are real ales here and freshly cooked meals using local produce. Parking is available in front of the pub or along the street in the village. Booking is essential so please contact me by Saturday 23rd April if you want to join us. [Phone Number] or e-mail [Email]
Haydn Starkie
Contact [Email] or [Mobile Number] for details
Lively Lincs
On Sat 9th Apr at 12:00pm - 2SOTM pub discussion
Our regular lunchtime meeting at the Adam & Eve Tavern, Lindum Hill. For our topic this month we are putting forward "Things I have never tried", and suggesting things for others to try. Nothing too challenging, please! All very welcome. Car park, pub food, decent ales, tea/coffee. Please confirm with me by Friday 8th so I can book a table. Email Jacquie on [Email] or phone [Phone Number].
On Sat 30th Apr at 12:00pm - Lunch and walk
Join us for a cafe lunch and chat, then a walk (maybe muddy!) for a mile or two along the Old Bain path, a stroll around Horncastle's varied shops, and maybe tea somewhere. Public car parks available, but busy on Saturdays so do allow extra time. All welcome, including guests, but booking for lunch is essential. Please contact Helen by Thursday 28th, on [Email].
Jacquie Harrison
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] / [Mobile Number] for details
In Luton
Mid Bucks
On Sun 3rd Apr at 2:00pm - Games Afternoon
Please join Dave and Alison online for a relaxed and informal Sunday afternoon of board games and chat. All members and friends are welcome. We play most Sundays using www.boardgamearena.com and Jitsi for chat. Further details are on the main Mensa web site. For more information please contact Dave a few days beforehand. Either telephone him on [Phone Number] or e-mail to [Email]
On Fri 8th Apr at 10:30am - Coffee & Chat
This month we are going to the Metro Lounge at 63-65 Hill Avenue, Amersham, HP6 5BX. See https://thelounges.co.uk/metro/ for further details. No need to book, but if you want me to look out for you, let me know you are coming on [Phone Number] or e-mail me at [Email]
On Sat 23rd Apr at 2:00pm - Local Art Exhibition
This free exhibition entitled 'A Brush with Wycombe's Past' will celebrate Wycombe's portrayal by local artists past and present and feature historic maps of the area. Meet outside the Guildhall on the High Street to enter at 2pm or join us inside. If you want me to look out for you, let me know you are coming via [Phone Number] or [Email]
On Sat 23rd Apr at 3:00pm - Afternoon Tea/Coffee
After the exhibition we will move on to a local café for tea, coffee and chat. If you are not coming to the exhibition first, please contact me a day or two beforehand to confirm the venue on [Phone Number] or [Email]
For further details or encouragement contact me on [Phone Number] or e-mail me at [Email]
Val Hinkins
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] for details
Mensans in MK & Bedford
On Sat 9th Apr at 3:00pm - T@3
Join us in the restaurant of Dobbie's Garden Centre for tea, coffee, cakes and chat. Contact [Email], or [Phone Number] / [Phone Number].
On Mon 18th Apr at 7:00pm - Book Group
Join us in the foyer of Jury's Inn Hotel on Midsummer Boulevard as we discuss the next book in our series. Contact [Email], or [Phone Number] / [Phone Number] for more details.
Just a reminder about our M-MK & Bedford Facebook group - if you would like to join please search for the group and send me a request. I also keep an email distribution list for meeting reminders and any last-minute changes, so if you would like to be added to this please let me know.
We hope to see as many of you as possible at one or other of our events this month. Do remember that you're welcome to bring a guest with you, so if you've never been to a Mensa event and are a little nervous about coming along on your own, just bring a friend.
Jo Sidebottom
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] / [Mobile Number] for details
News from Northampton
On Sun 10th Apr at 10:30am - Breakfast Meeting
Or usual monthly meeting at: Zapato Lounge, Welsh House, Market Square, NN1 2EB. Join us for a light snack of the full Lounge Breakfast! Look for the Mblem on one of the tables at the front of the café. Contact me on [Phone Number] or [Email]
Notts News
On Tue 5th Apr at 8:00pm - 5OTM
Our regular "5th of the month" get together at the Vat & Fiddle pub, Queensbridge Road, NG2 1NB, for a drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and chat. Look for yellow Mblem on the table most likely in the refurbished Goldings Room between the visitor centre and main bar. Phone Maxine on [Phone Number] or email [Email] if you need any encouragement to come along. New and old faces all welcome.
On Thu 7th Apr at 7:00pm - Tenpin Bowling
A get together at Tenpin bowling alley, Redfield Way, Lenton, NG7 2UW. Two games of bowling plus a burger (beef, cheese or veggie) and chips meal for only £10 per person. Ample free parking at the venue. Book with Maxine on"[Phone Number] or [Email] by 4th please.
On Thu 14th Apr at 7:30pm - Natter & Nosh
Join us for a meal at 7.30pm or later for just a drink at The Cadland pub/restaurant on High Road in Chilwell. Contact Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] for further info or just turn up on the night and look for yellow Mblem on a large reserved table. The venue has a large car park and is on a bus route.
On Thu 21st Apr at 7:30pm - Theatre
The smash hit musical Mamma Mia! based on the songs of Abba comes to the Royal Concert Hall. Tickets £27-£56. Discount for groups of 10+. Contact Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] to express interest and book. This performance is sign language interpreted.
On Tue 26th Apr at 7:30pm - Eating Meeting
We're dining at George's, Cranfleet Way, Long Eaton, NG10 3RJ. Traditional British fish and chips plus other dishes. See menu at www.georgestradition.co.uk/shop/long-eaton/ and reserve your place with Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] by 22nd latest.
Ciao for now!
Maxine Bates
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] for details
Time for tea!
In February 2020 we held an afternoon tea event at the Holiday Inn just off M1 J18. Little did we know the corona chaos to follow a short time afterwards! For our first post-pandemic regional event we returned to the same venue in March 2022 for comparison. The afternoon tea attracted 40 members from both East and West Midlands and possibly would have been more had we not needed to impose a booking deadline. So a very similar number to pre-pandemic and it was fantastic to see some regulars as well as many new faces and Mensa friends I hadn?t seen for 15 years.
After a delicious afternoon tea the families adjourned to another room for some games suitable for junior members whilst the remaining guests split into teams to take part in a general knowledge quiz. With final scores ranging from 56 to 85.5 out of 100 I think it was set at the right level of difficulty. Hopefully those taking part learned a bit of trivia too. I certainly did compiling it! Well done to the winning team of Claire, Jo, Chris and Michael who won chocolates and Mensa badges as their reward. It was truly wonderful to be organising what felt a completely normal event again. Thank you to everyone who came along and made it a fun afternoon.
Maxine Bates
Beaurepaire Patisserie
This picture was taken at an event to celebrate the Queen's birthday and not at a '2nd
Wednesday' event, although I'm sure the afternoon tea will be just as nice!
Beaurepaire Patisserie is a tea room located at 52 King Street, Belper, Derbys, DE56 1PL, and one of the main streets in the town. There is seating on three floors, the top floor being ?Granny?s Parlour?which seats up to a dozen guests and we usually have that room to ourselves. Note due to the age of the building the staircase is quite steep and narrow! The menu includes sandwiches, panini, salads, jacket potatoes, delicious homemade cakes, hot and cold drinks plus daily specials at reasonable prices. Like all good Mensa events, this one sprang up because Helen was going there anyway and decided to invite other members as we emerged from the pandemic. These events now attract between 5 and 12 members from several counties. We alternate tea rooms in Belper on the second Wednesday of each month meeting every other month at Beaurepaire Patisserie. There is free parking in The Coppice car park off the market place which is only a couple of minutes walk from the tea room. We meet from 1:30pm and are usually there until around 3:00pm. But feel free to pop in for just a coffee or make it an afternoon out and browse around the lovely local shops afterwards. If you're free on a Wednesday lunch why not join our friendly group? Please let Helen Krasner know beforehand ([Email]) if you're coming to an event here.
Maxine Bates
Sit & Play
Val Hinkins and a group of Mensans exploring the 'Sit & Play' Exhibition at the Discover Bucks Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury on Friday 11th March. The structures are built entirely with Material Architecture Laboratory's own building blocks - interlocking pieces produced from recycled plastic which are shaped like the letters S, U and P.
'Winter Sun'
Clive Marner won the Photographic Competition. (See top of page). His other two entries for the competition: Wollaton Hall and Sled Ride
20 Questions (No. 246)
The answers to the February competition were Oxygen, Nox, Carbon monoxide, Boxer, Phlox, Roxane, George Fox, Cowpox, Oxus, Roxie Hart, Ibrox, Proxy War, Biloxi Blues, Peroxide blonde, Oxalic acid, Sox, Oxford comma, Proxima, Magnox and Box tunnel. Well done to Andy Cole of Cleethorpes who winsthe £10 One4All gift card.
Pamela Covey has compiled this month's competition to test fans of Inspector Morse, the TV adaptations of Colin Dexter's books, not the books themselves. Send your answers to arrive by 20th April by post to '20 Questions (No. 246)', [Address], or by email to [Email]. Remember to include your name and address!
1. In 'Dead on Time', we meet Susan Fallon to whom Morse was once engaged before she met and married Henry Fallon. What was Susan's maiden name?
2. In 'Death is now My Neighbour', what anagram clue does Morse give to Adele Cecil to enable her to figure out his previously undisclosed first name?
3. Which now very famous and successful director was responsible for two episodes of Morse early in his career?
4. One of the lead roles in 'The Death of the Self' is played by which actor who later goes on to star as a detective in his own series?
5. In 'Cherubim and Seraphim', the teenager Marilyn who commits suicide is what relation to Morse?
6. Which actor, currently best-known for playing a somewhat quirky TV doctor, appearsin 'Happy Families'?
7. Aside from Nicole Burgess in 'The Death of the Self', which other operatic diva is much admired by Morse and in which episode does she appear?
8. In 'Deceived by Flight', what nickname is given to Morse by his former friends from their Oxford college days?
9. The same episode includes another actor who will later become which popular TV detective?
10. Morse's beloved 1960s Jaguar Mark 2 car has what registration plate?
11. In 'Absolute Conviction', which actor is well-known for his sitcom catchphrase 'I don't believe it!'?
12. In which episode is Morse initially hospitalised and has to undergo an endoscopy?
13. Which episode requires Morse and Lewis to carry out their investigation in Australia?
14. In 'Masonic Mysteries', which other Chief Inspector tries to persuade Morse to join the Masons?
15. In 'Fat Chance', how does Hilary Dobson positively identify her stolen bicycle when it is found?
16. In which episode does Morse first meet pathologist Dr Grayling Russell played by Amanda Hillwood?
17. In 'Deadly Slumber', what is the first name of the young girl on a life-support system towhomMorse paysa visit and takesher flowers?
18. In 'The Remorseful Day', what new hobby is Morse trying to take up ahead of his retirement?
19. How does Morse initially become friendly with Anne Staveley in 'The Dead of Jericho'?
20. In 'Last Bus to Woodstock', Sylvia Kane's mother says it took what to make Sylvia?