Change Month

GNYM Member Event Calendar
December, 2009

Mphasis Calendar events are held in all boroughs or counties of our region (Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam) and beyond (New Jersey, Connecticut). Some events are marked ? when location is To Be Announced. All Mensa members and accompanied guests are welcome at all calendar events unless otherwise indicated in the listing. Young Mensan events are for Mensans age 18 and under only. Children are required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all Mensa events, including Young Mensan events. Proof of Mensa membership is required for all GNYM-sponsored events.

Please call the CalendarPhone before attending an event to check for schedule changes. Late updates are often posted on the GNYM website, www.gnym.org

“The following information is provided exclusively as a service to our members and represents material provided to us by individuals in their independent capacities as organizers. Members are encouraged to be aware of their common-sense responsibility to (1) verify information regarding meeting place, time, cost, access, smoking policy, and appropriateness for children, and (2) conduct themselves in such a way as to make their repeated presence welcome.”

SIGs are voluntary associations of members of Mensa, which operate independently of Greater New York Mensa. Their financial activities and liabilities are entirely their own, and not those of Greater New York Mensa. Furthermore, no SIG leader may obligate GNYM in any way.

This is the "munged" edition. Most events have details but no particulars.
For complete details, see Mphasis in print, or see the members-only section which has complete calendar pages and complete Mphasis online.

Green indicates additions or changes. Red indicates deletions or cancelations.

December, 2009

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Science Fiction & Fantasy SIG Meeting
Nassau 8:00PM
Ever try talking to friends, co-workers, or relatives about SF and end up feeling like the only member of your own species? Don't be alone any more! Join us in the cafe at ____ in ____ to talk about favorite books, movies, TV shows, etc. Any questions, please contact ____ at ____.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

BridgeSIG [every Wednesday]
Manhattan 6:30PM
Come join the Bridge SIG for fun, non-competitive bridge. All skill levels are welcome, however a basic, working understanding of the game is necessary to join in play, as we are unfortunately not equipped to teach from scratch. Kibitzers are welcome. For more info, and to be placed on the e-mail list, call ____ at ____, e-mail her at ____ .

Friday, December 4, 2009

Friendly Friday Dinner [every Friday]
Manhattan 5:45-8:30PM
Dinner every Friday evening with other Mensans. We will be meeting at ____, ____. No need to RSVP. Come when you can, stay as long as you like. If you need more information, call ____ at ____ or email ____ at ____ .

Movie-Going M*****s
Nassau, approx. 7:30-10:30PM
Hmm, what fab movie shall we choose to go see this time? Will it be "Armored" (with Laurence Fishburne and Matt Dillon)?  or Tobey Maguire and ____ Portman in "Brothers"?  or "Nine", a musical version of Fellini's "8 1/2"? or "Old Dogs" (starring Robin Williams and John Travolta)? Tell us what you want to see, and come join us at the movies. The popcorn will be fresh, and the company smart! Call ____ at ____. We'll put you on the notification list (via email or phone) about which movie, what theatre, and when is the showtime. See you at the movies!

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Long Island Holiday Party
Nassau 6:30PM
Join your fellow Mensans for the Long Island Holiday Party. Enjoy a fine Italian dinner and great Mensan conversation. We will return to the Olive Garden, 5598 Sunrise Hwy, in Massapequa Park. To participate in the traditional (optional) grab bag, bring a wrapped gift $7-15 in value. A festive time is sure to be had by all. To reserve, contact ____ at ____, or ____, by Thursday, December 3.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Board Meeting
Manhattan 1:00PM
Members are welcome to attend. To have an item added to the agenda, send it via email to David.Finegan@gnym.org by December 2. We will meet at the SSMAC—the Soldiers', Sailors', Marines' and Airmen's Club, located at 283 Lexington Avenue between 36 and 37 Streets. Following the meeting will be:

GNYM Holiday Party Manhattan 3:00PM This is always a great party, so join us at the SSMAC—the Soldiers', Sailors', Marines' and Airmen's Club, located at 283 Lexington Avenue between 36 and 37 Streets. The Marines will have their Toys for Tots collection, so try to bring an unwrapped toy to help bring someone a little fun! Refreshments will be served. As always, and defying inflation, admission is $5 for members, and $7.50 for accompanied guests.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

BuzzTime
Suffolk 7:00PM
Test your trivia knowledge in the Buzztime (formerly NTN) game against players all over the US and Canada. We are playing at ____, at ____ in ____. Call the restaurant at ____ for directions. For other information call ____ ____ or e-mail ____ .

Intertel Dinner Social
Manhattan 6:45PM
Intertel invites Mensans and their guests to a dinner social at 6:45pm. The restaurant is ____, ____. Please contact ____ at ____ or ____ for directions.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

BridgeSIG [every Wednesday - see December 2 for details.]
Manhattan 6:30PM

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Restaurant and Dining Lovers SIG
Manhattan 6:30PM
____, at ____, is a friendly Japanese establishment which serves Bento box dinners (huge portions) as well as regular hot dishes and their signature sushi.  Whatever you like you'll find it here and for less than $20.  So do come and please bring cash only. RESERVATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL: Call ____ at ____, ____ or ____ at ____, or e-mail ____ at ____ .  If you call to leave a message, please be sure to leave your daytime phone number. Reservations deadline: Monday, December 7. Maximum of 12.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Friendly Friday Dinner [every Friday - see December 4 for details.]
Manhattan 5:45-8:30PM

Staten Island Makes Merry
Staten Island 8:00PM
For good food, great company, and stimulating conversation, as well as lots of jokes, join the Staten Island Merrymakers on the SECOND FRIDAY of every month at 8 PM at the King's Arms Restaurant, 500 Forest Avenue, Staten Island. Ask for the Mensa group. For directions and information, call Staten Island Coordinator, Brenda Giammanco, before 7 PM at 718-980-1686.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Crank & Spin
Manhattan  8:00AM
This month, join us for a 45-mile "Tour du Piermont," leaving from Manhattan.  Bring your own patch kit, warm clothes, snacks, etc. Rain/snow cancels. E-mail RSVP MANDATORY, with name and cell phone no.; please write "Crank & Spin" in the subject line to get through spam filters. ____, ____, cell ____ ____ .

Volunteer SIG
Manhattan ? Location t.b.d. 10:00AM
The Volunteer Special Interest Group aims to facilitate civic engagement through matching volunteers with appropriate organizations. We create a communication and social networking platform for current and prospective volunteers to exchange ideas and information on volunteer knowledge and practice. Contact us with your volunteer interests and availability: ____ ____ .

Business Solutions Hub
Manhattan ? Location t.b.d. 3:30PM
Business Solutions Hub is a special interest group that takes business issues and discusses possible solutions or recommendations. State your business issue or come join the solutions forum. Whether it's a tricky role requirement, small business dilemma, or a start-up quandary, we'd like to help. To participate, please visit: http://sites.google.com/site/mensabusiness/, or contact us at ____, or ____ .

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Queens Second Sunday Brunch
Queens 12 Noon
We would like to invite all Greater NY Mensans to attend the vibrant Queens portion of the chapter. We meet the Second Sunday of every month at ____, ____. (Look for the Mensa table in the back.) They are located just north of ____ (____), and there is plenty of parking in their lot. Also, they give separate checks. Any questions call ____ at ____ or ____ . We hope to see many of our Mensa friends there.

Strategy Gaming SIG
Location to be determined 1:00PM
Put those competitive (yet polite) impulses to good use while vying with fellow Mensans in games that require skill, planning and negotiation. Please contact ____ at ____ or via e-mail at ____ .

Monday, December 14, 2009

Opulent M SIG
Manhattan 6:00PM
Join the Opulent M SIG at ONE IF BY LAND, TWO IF BY SEA
at 17 Barrow Street, just a few steps east of 7th Ave. in Manhattan. This place was owned by Vice President Aaron Burr before he slew America 's first Secretary of the Treasury, Alexander Hamilton. Multiple ecstacys of culinary bliss will burgeon forth in your mouth from the fine fare here, but sprain of the brain may remain from the pain of choosing from the myriad of bounteous enticements of their menu offerings, though you should not allow yourself to be enticed off the True Path which leads to the Beef Wellington, roasted to your taste. Please bring cash; minimum of 20% tip. Please note that this is subject to confirmation, in that the restaurant does not take reservations as early as is necessary for publishing in this calendar. Call David William Bowden to Reserve at: 718-380-3842

Polyamory SIG
Manhattan 7:00PM - ?
____, ____
This event will piggyback onto the existing Open Love NY Polyamorous Happy Hour, the second Monday of each month, to which several Mensans already belong.  Bring your wife, husband, girlfriends, boyfriends and theirs, and meet like-minded people. If you consider yourself polyamorous or to be in an open relationship, or are interested in learning more about this loving and progressive way of life, we invite you to come and get advice and support, have some drinks and laughs, and build our community. All are welcome. Please contribute by bringing finger foods and an open spirit! More info? Call ____ at ____.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Smart Company: The SIG for Mensa Business Owners and Executives
Manhattan 7:00PM
Topic: Strategic Resources: Build or Buy? And how do you decide?
Enjoy stimulating conversation on business related issues and a great meal. All attendees are encouraged to participate in lively group discussions. Non-M guests are always warmly welcomed. According to attendees, Smart Company is "more fun than it sounds," "stimulating," and “the food is good." We share knowledge, discuss business issues and trade solutions to business problems and have a good time doing it. This SIG is organized by lawyer ____ and creative director ____. Call or email Mark for reservations or additional information: ____, ____ . RSVP deadline is 5pm, the Friday before the meeting.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

BridgeSIG [every Wednesday - see December 2 for details.]
Manhattan 6:30PM

Thursday, December 17, 2009

The Cool Kids
Manhattan or Brooklyn 6:30PM
Join us on the 3rd Thursday of the month for a bar hopping adventure, in either Manhattan or Brooklyn. We'll discover the latest hot spots, cocktail dens, and brew shrines, all accompanied by classic MENSAn company and conversation.  Occasionally we will plan events beyond bar hopping.  For this month's location, email ____ at ____ .

Friday, December 18, 2009

Friendly Friday Dinner [every Friday - see December 4 for details.]
Manhattan 5:45-8:30PM

Movie-Going M*****s
Nassau, approx. 7:30-10:30PM
Fresh popcorn, previews of coming attractions, a good feature flick on the Silver Screen, convivial discussion afterwards... the whole movie experience, together with other smart folks who like movies too! C'mon, we'd love to have you join us!  We go see a new feature film every other week. This week our options include "Invictus" (directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela), or Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker in "Did You Hear About the Morgans", or "Avatar" in 3D. What will we choose?  Call to voice your preference! Call ____ at ____. (Or call even if you just want to be notified (email or phone) about which movie, what theatre, and when is the showtime.) See you at the movies!

Sunday, December 20, 2009

LIMENSIG Third Sunday Brunch
Nassau 12:30PM
Our venue is ____, at ____. Main courses from $7. Ask for the MENSA table. Info: ____ at ____ or ____ .

GameSIG
Manhattan 2:00PM
Bring your favorite games or play ours. In the East 70s. Please reserve by the Wednesday before. $2 for refreshments. For info, contact ____ at ____, email her at ____ .

Nyack Dining Group
Rockland 6:00PM
This will be the one hundred-fifth meeting of the Nyack dining group, hosted by M ____. The restaurant is ____, ____ at ____ in Nyack that offers above-average food at reasonable prices. To say you are coming, call ____ at ____ or e-mail him at ____ by the previous Saturday.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Whedonverse SIG Meeting
Nassau 8:00PM
Is your life like living in a Hellmouth since Buffy the Vampire Slayer went off the air? Now there's help! Join us to talk about Buffy, Angel, Firefly, and all the creations of writer/director Joss Whedon! We meet in the cafe at ____ in ____. Any questions, please contact ____ at ____.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

BridgeSIG [every Wednesday - see December 2 for details.]
Manhattan 6:30PM

LIMENSIG Midweek Munchie
Nassau 7:30PM
Join us for dinner at ____, ____ in ____.  Ask for the Mensa table. Call ____ for information at ____, or e-mail ____ .

Friday, December 25, 2009

Friendly Friday Dinner [every Friday - see December 4 for details.]
Manhattan 5:45-8:30PM

OPULENT M SIG
Manhattan time to be determined
Join the OPULENT M SIG for our Christmas and Hanukkah brunch at the  alluring Ambassador Grill in the UN Plaza Hotel, at 44th Street (1st - 2nd Aves.) Over the years of our attendance to this CHRISTMAS Buffet, we have been thrilled by super novas of culinary euphoria, having feasted upon all the succulent lobster, shrimp, salmon, fresh roasted leg of lamb carved in front of you, fresh roasted beef, many kinds of fish and abundant Champagne.  Their blissfully hedonic desserts have been ineluctibly seductive feasts for eye and mouth. The price will probably be less than $80 all included. Please bring cash. NO smoking. Please note that this is subject to confirmation, in that the restaurant does not take reservations as early as is necessary for publishing in this calendar. Call David Wm. Bowden to reserve, at 718-380-3842.

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

BridgeSIG [every Wednesday - see December 2 for details.]
Manhattan 6:30PM

January, 2010 (preview)

Friday, January 1, 2010

Friendly Friday Dinner [every Friday - see December 4 for details.]
Manhattan 5:45-8:30PM

Movie-Going M*****s
Nassau, approx. 7:30-10:30PM
A great way to start the new year... going to the movies with a melange of Mensans! Shall we see Robert Downey Jr's take on "Sherlock Holmes"? Or how about a love triangle -- Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin vying for the affections of Meryl Streep? Want to have input into which movie we choose to see? or just want to be notified (email or phone) about which movie, what theatre, and when is the showtime? Then contact ____ at ____. See you at the movies!

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Strategy Gaming
Location to be determined 1:00PM
[See December 13th for details]

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

SciFic & Fantasy SIG
Nassau 8:00PM
[See December 1st for details]

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

BridgeSIG [every Wednesday - see December 2 for details.]
Manhattan 6:30PM

Upcoming

(Note, Upcoming events are more likely to change.)

(For more details and more gatherings around the country, see Mensa Bulletin and American Mensa web site.)