Events from the Derby Ram Trail, a Notts Eating Meeting, and Lincs Kite Flying events
Regional News
This month we have events both online and in person but please do check with the host that the event is going ahead before travelling.
Thanks to Val and Jacquie for hosting our first regional online Zoom event - wherever you live in our region you are invited to join in. It takes place from 11am on Saturday 18th September and all are welcome for a chat, but bring your own coffee! Please contact them beforehand for the link.
The British Mensa Annual Gathering takes place in Manchester 1st-3rd October so now is the time to book accommodation and events. You can pop in for the day or stay all weekend. There will be activities to suit all tastes and budgets and it's a great way to make new friends or meet up with old ones you haven't seen during the pandemic. See www.mensa.org.uk for full information. I look forward to seeing you there!
After producing some excellent issues Carole now has other priorities in her life and is stepping down from her role as Empress editor. Many thanks for your time and effort Carole. I'm delighted to welcome Roy Latham to the editing team. Roy introduces himself in this issue.
As ever, keep in touch - ciao for now!
Maxine Bates
Regional Officer
Editorial
Are we easing our way out of lockdown or is this to be our way of life for the forseeable future? Either way, the time spent at home has been good for reflection on where we might travel when restrictions are lifted or more importantly when we feel safe to do so. I can't help thinking how carefree we all look in pre-2020 holiday photos - we took so much for granted and hopefully we won't do that again.
I've only been editing Empress for one year, but sadly other commitments in my life are taking up my time and I am handing over the reins back to Mark and our new co-editor Roy Latham. I wish them both well with the future digital issues. These are exciting times for Empress and we can include so much more information and photographs so please keep sending in your photos and contributions to empress@mensa.org.uk. It's great to see what everyone is getting up to, and to see all the images from our area.
There are so many ways to get involved with Mensa and we have a lively, committed team of event organisers in East Midlands - if you have any suggestions for events you would like to be included in the programme, let them know. If you've never joined in before and find yourself with spare time - go along to some of the organised events and introduce yourself.
Carole Pollard
Join us for a day of fun in the (hopefully!) sun at Skegness! Sunday 19th September
Frank Forster is the oldest member in the East Midlands region at 94 years young. Some of you may recognise his name from his participation on our regional Facebook group or reading his short stories in Empress. He has chatted online to many of us during the pandemic who have never met, so on Sunday 19th September we're going to try to rectify that by having a get together in his home town of Skegness!
This may be the nearest we get to a regional event this year so if you fancy a day at the seaside please do come along. Contact Maxine on 01773 715330 or maxine@maruba-events.com as the format of the day will be tailored to those expressing interest. However, it is planned to start at 11am and include a visit to the Natureland Seal Sanctuary and a stroll on the Victorian pier.
The sanctuary is on North Parade (PE25 1DB) and includes seals, penguins, meerkats, alpacas, birds, butterflies and pets corner. Entry is free for under 2s, £7.20 age 3-15, £8.78 age 16-59 and £7.65 age 60+ payable on the door. The site is fully accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. The pier was built in 1881 and is now home to various activities, live entertainment and, of course, sea views. We'll take a stroll along the 118 metre boardwalk and maybe enjoy a drink at the beach bar or grab an ice cream. Please come along and introduce yourselves - it should be fun.
There is the option to make this into a mini-weekend by adding the Saturday afternoon at either Gibraltar Point nature reserve or Fantasy Island amusement park plus dinner and overnight accommodation if travelling some distance.
Events and Meetings
Derby Diary
On Wed 8th Sep at 1:30pm - Lunchtime Meeting
A meeting for those who are free in the week, for lunch, coffee/cake, or even both!. Cocoa Café, Strutt Street, Belper DE56 1UN does light lunches, coffee, and delicious cakes. Car park opposite or free parking on Derwent Street or near Market Square. Ask for Helen and David. Please let me know by the weekend before as I'll need to book a table. Contact Helen on [Email] or [Phone Number]
On Wed 15th Sep at 7:30pm - 3WOTM
This month we are trying The Paddock, 391 Mansfield Road, Breadsall, Derby DE21 4AW (near the Meteor Retail Park). Come along to eat or just for a drink. I've booked a table at the front. Please let me know if you are thinking of coming to make sure the table is large enough. Contact Susan on [Email] or [Phone Number].
On Wed 22nd Sep at 7:30pm - Online Chat
Join us for a chat on Zoom, whether or not you've tried the "in person" meeting last week. Stay for some or all of the hour and twenty minutes. New faces always very welcome. Please contact me for the Zoom link and with any questions. Contact Susan on [Email] or [Phone Number]
Susan Graves
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] / [Mobile Number] for details
Hertfordshire Happenings
On Thu 2nd Sep at 8:00pm - FThOTM
This is our monthly meeting at the Three Magnets, in Leys Avenue. Though the restrictions on meeting in pubs have been relaxed at the time of writing, we don't know that further restrictions will not be imposed before September, therefore it is strongly recommended to contact me before travelling to confirm that the meeting is going ahead. Please call [Phone Number] or email [Email] for details.
On Thu 2nd Sep at 8:00pm - FThOTM
In parallel with the physical meeting in Letchworth, we are holding the regular Zoom meeting with East Anglia region. This is an alternative for those who would prefer not to travel, and as a backup in case the Three Magnets is unable to accommodate us. If you wish to attend, please contact me for details on [Phone Number] or email [Email]
On Fri 24th Sep at 8:00pm - LFOTM
Last Friday has returned. As ever, we are at the Cowper Arms, Digswell (next to Welwyn North station) from 8 pm. As I do not yet know what the pub's arrangements will be, if you want to come, please can you call me on [Phone Number] no later than Friday 16 September. Regrettably, it may not be possible to accommodate you if you don't let me know in advance.
Steve Thomas
Contact [Email] or [Mobile Number] for details
In Leicestershire
On Sat 11st Sep at 2:00pm - Art Trail
This trail has been organised for the LOROS charity. Details may be found at https://rocketroundleicester.co.uk/art-trail/. If you want to join me in a walk round the trail, meet me at Leicester Clock Tower at 2:00 pm. Go to the Trail Hub Shop in the Highcross to pick up maps, information and to make a donation to LOROS. For further information and encouragement please contact me on [Phone Number] or [Email].
On Mon 20th Sep at 8:00pm - Pub Social
Join me for our usual convivial third Monday of the month gathering at the welcoming Cradock Arms, 201 Knighton Road, Leicester, LE2 3TT. Please let me know if you would like to come in case I still need to book a table. 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 25th Sep at 7:00pm - Pub meal
This month we are dining at the Sugar Loaf, a pub in Ab Kettleby near Melton Mowbray on the A606 (2 Nottingham Road) LE14 3JB. You are welcome bring a friend along. Anyone wishing to join us must book in advance with me by Saturday 18th September. Contact me on [Phone Number] or at [Email]
Haydn Starkie
Contact [Email] or [Mobile Number] for details
Lively Lincs
On Sun 5th Sep at 12:00pm - Town walk
Join us for a leisurely stroll around Woodhall Spa, following the Heritage Trail (notes provided). We might meet for a light cafe lunch first, depending on conditions/restrictions at the time. Contact Helen a few days beforehand, please, for details, and on the day if the weather looks unsuitable as she may decide to cancel. All welcome. Helen is on [Email] or [Phone Number].
On Sat 11st Sep at 12:00pm - SSOTM pub/online discussion
Join us for a friendly discussion over lunch. We might meet at a local pub or alternatively on Zoom, depending on circumstances. This month's topic is: "What is your favourite joke, and why?" Come prepared! All welcome. It's essential to contact Jacquie by Friday 11th to confirm whether pub or online meeting and let her know you'll be attending. Jacquie is on [Email] or [Phone Number].
On Sun 19th Sep at 11:00am - Skegness Day Out
We're going to play at the seaside and meet East Midlands Mensa's oldest member! The day can be tailored to suit those interested. Tickets £7.20 age 3-15, £8.78 age 16-59 and £7.65 age 60+. Plus a stroll and some activities. Also option to make into a mini-weekend with time at Fantasy Island theme park or Gibraltar Point nature reserve. Please contact Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] for full details.
Jacquie Harrison
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] / [Mobile Number] for details
Mid Bucks
On Sun 5th Sep 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 17th Sep at 10:30am - Coffee & Chat
One of our members has kindly invited us to enjoy our regular monthly relaxed conversation, cake and coffee together in their garden. If you would like to come, please let me know on [Phone Number] or e-mail me at [Email] a few days beforehand so I can give you the details and confirm the meeting is going ahead.
On Sat 18th Sep at 11:00am - First Timers & old friends coffee Zoom
Come and meet other members online for an hour or so. Aimed at people who have been unsure about coming to face-to-face meetings but members who do socialise already are also very welcome. Hosted by Val in Mid-Bucks and Jacquie in Lincolnshire, it covers the whole region. Please email both [Email] and [Email] so Jacquie can send you a Zoom link by Friday 17th, and please bring your own coffee!
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 Wed 1st Sep at 6:00pm - Dinner
Join us for dinner at the Albero Lounge in Riverside Square (behind the Town Hall). Please confirm by Sunday 29th August so I can book a table - [Email], or [Phone Number] / [Phone Number].
On Mon 20th Sep at 7:30pm - 3MOTM Quiz
Join us for our monthly quiz, either by Zoom, or possibly back in a real pub! Confirmation and/or Zoom link will be publicised nearer the time via social media, or contact [Email], or [Phone Number] / [Phone Number].
On Sun 26th Sep at 10:00am - Sunday Breakfast
Join us for breakfast in Stony Stratford - venue to be confirmed nearer the time. Contact [Email], or [Phone Number] / [Phone Number].
On Sun 26th Sep at 11:00am - Stony Stratford Treasure Trail
Join us for a fun treasure trail following clues around Stony Stratford. Contact me nearer the time for the meeting point - [Email], or [Phone Number] / [Phone Number].
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 5th Sep at 10:30am - Breakfast Meeting
The monthly Northampton breakfast meetings start this month at our old venue: Zapato Lounge, Welsh House, Market Square, NN1 2EB. Enjoy just a coffee, or a full breakfast, whilst catching up with what we've all been doing this year. Contact me on [Phone Number] or [Email]
Notts News
On Sun 5th Sep at 8:00pm - 5OTM
Please contact Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] if interested in a get together at the Vat & Fiddle pub, Queensbridge Road, NG2 1NB, in case COVID rules have changed yet again! All drinks on offer from real ale brewed at the adjacent Castle Rock brewery to a cup of coffee. Inside and outside seating. Free parking and near to train, tram and bus routes.
On Thu 9th Sep at 7:30pm - Natter & Nosh
Fancy a meal and good conversation at The Cadland, High Road, Chilwell, NG9 5EG? Menu at www.emberinns.co.uk. Please contact Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] by 4th latest so a table can be reserved.
On Tue 28th Sep at 7:30pm - Eating Meeting
Join us for an Indian meal at Huthwaite Tandoori, Market Street, Sutton In Ashfield, NG17 2QY. Reasonably priced menu at www.huthwaitetandoori.co.uk. Please reserve your place with Maxine on [Phone Number] or [Email] by 24th latest.
Ciao for now!
Maxine Bates
Contact [Email] or [Phone Number] for details
An introductory bio from new co-editor Roy Latham
I was born in
Stockwell in
South West
London and
moved to
Welwyn Garden
City when I was
8. At 18 I joined
Post Office
Telephones
(now BT) and rose through the ranks to
become commercial systems manager of
London Payphone Services when we sold
£90M of phonecards a year and collected
£250-300K a day from the payphones just in
the London area. I eventually 'fell' into IT and
took early retirement in 2009. My first job
was with Marconi Instruments in St Albans
who made electronic test equipment and my
last was with a company that rented out
electronic test equipment - you could say I've
gone full circle in my work life.
I've lived in Chicago, Dallas, Tehran,
Leicestershire, and Harrow - but always
seemed to end up back in Welwyn Garden
City - I always say I must have done
something very evil to keep getting sent back!
I finally escaped to Harpenden in 2010 and
hopefully won't get sent back from here.
I'm not a complete virgin at producing
newsletters as, for several years I produced a
quarterly newsletter for a community service
group that I was a member of. However, that
was in the 80's - so please bear with me
while I find my feet again. I also produced a
newsletter for London Payphones to keep
staff up to date with the implementation of
the two management information systems
that I ran.
Roy Latham
20 Questions (No. 239)
The answers to the July competition were Irving Berlin, 1974, Derbyshire, Only Fools And Horses, Choice, Diana Moran, Canada, Nena, Petra, Sherlock Holmes, Ben Elton, Vincent Van Gogh, University Boat Race, grapefruit, Ian Paice, Captain Pugwash, 12th July, Glasgow, Jupiter and Oscar Wilde. Lots of entries but well done to David Crozier of St Albans who wins the £10 One4All gift card.
Thanks to Jo Sidebottom for compiling this month's quiz on an animal theme. Send your answers to arrive by 20th September by post to '20 Questions (No. 239)', [Address] or by email to maxine@maruba-events.com for your chance to win. Don't forget to include your name and address!
1. What type of creature is a tanager?
2. Which singer, who died in 1963, was nicknamed The Little Sparrow?
3. Which dinosaur name translates to mean 'three horned face'?
4. A taipan is what type of creature?
5. Marengo was the horse of which famous soldier?
6. At what age does a filly become a mare?
7. Which group had a hit in the 1970s with Crazy Horses?
8. What was the name of Tonto's horse?
9. What is the world's largest rodent?
10. What is the name of the dog in the comic strip The Perishers?
11. Muskie and Vince assisted which cartoon law enforcer?
12. The gharial is a species of which reptile?
13. What was the name of the first dog in space?
14. What is the world's largest turtle?
15. What is the collective name for a group of kangaroos?
16. In mythology what was the name of the female monster with the head of a lion, body of a goat and tail of a serpent?
17. The Shih Tzu dog was first bred in which country?
18. How many stomachs does a cow have?
19. In the musical Annie, what is Annie's dog called?
20. What bird is known as 'the butcher's bird'?