Central South Carolina Mensa

THE PREZ BOX

Try to remember the kind of September, when life was slow and oh so mellow …. Try to remember, and if you remember, then follow ….Those reflective lyrics were originally crooned by the late Jerry Orbach in the 1960’s Off-Broadway show, The Fantasticks. (Watch his later rendition here.) Re-recorded by many, and even included in a blockbuster movie soundtrack, the song comes to my mind whenever September rolls around. I’ve always thought the tune was a bit melancholy. Maybe it is that, as I get older, a symbolic application becomes more apparent. Or perhaps the song reminds me that in September we say goodbye to summer and catch a glimpse of winter still at a distance. While many eagerly anticipate the coming of autumn (especially here in the Sunbelt), I’m always a bit sorry to see summer end. And yet, I love the beautiful red-orange leaves, crunchy apples, and crisp morning air that fall brings. I believe that every season has its own unique joys to savor.

Whether you’ve seen many Septembers or comparatively few, this month is a great time to reflect on the roads we have traveled together as Central South Carolina Mensa. So far this year, we have won another Local Group Jewel award, disbursed a record amount in scholarship funds (including a scholarship to a national-level winner), honored our longest serving local office-holder, had two teams compete in Culture Quest, awarded our editor with an “Owlie,” tested numerous Mensa hopefuls, volunteered in the community, shared meals at some of the state’s best eateries, heard from some of the state’s most interesting personalities, watched a once-in-a-lifetime astronomical event, and thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company. Perhaps without realizing it, we’ve been making memories as well. The kind of memories that, when remembered in the days and years ahead, will bring smiles to our faces. Don’t miss out. Be a part of Central South Carolina Mensa.

Karen

Mensa-Vents

August 18: Public lecture on solar eclipses at Darla Moore School of Business, 7 pm

August 21: Total solar eclipse, approx. 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm

MENSA TESTING

The Mensa test in September will be at the American Legion building, 200 Pickens Street, Columbia, SC 29205, on Sunday, September 17, at 4:30 pm.  It will last approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours, and the cost will be $60.  A photo ID will be required.  For information or to reserve a spot, contact Lucie Hughes by Thursday, September 15.

 * Members can view all of the newsletter at the Mensa site.