Words From Nick

By Nick Sanford, RVC 5
MensaRVC5@gmail.com

This month I will be talking about the results of the December American Mensa Committee (AMC) meeting.

A big issue that was put to rest was how to fill a vacant RVC position.

The prior method was for the AMC to appoint the new person, but that means the regions with the greatest interest gets no vote. A motion was passed for vacant positions to be filled by a vote of the Local Secretaries of the affected region. This isn't a perfect solution, but it is cost effective, fast, and leaves the decision in the hands of those that are concerned.

After a long debate I voted for the alcohol motion. As originally written it did not eliminate the liability borne by American Mensa as a whole, and it placed heavy liability on the local group and members. Eventually the motion was trimmed down to recognizing that alcohol can and will be served, asked that members help those that are intoxicated, and suggested serving non-alcoholic drinks and some form of food in addition to alcohol. As is, I think the motion is harmless.

I voted against adopting the vision statement and goals, but lost by a lot. I think having these is great, but they do not belong in the Actions Still In Effect (ASIEs), and in my entire history of watching the AMC, I have never seen a strong indication of actively pursuing a strategic plan. John Recht is leading the Planning Committee, and I sincerely hope that his vision is accomplished. I don't think that it will, but I will fully back him in trying. In a nutshell the goals are to increase testing, embrace the internet, restructure the AMC, decrease the dependence on dues income, encourage member participation in the national organization, and increase diversity. I wish the best of luck to you, John.

The golden nugget of the meeting was the passing of the “avenues of redress” motion. This is a list of suggested actions to take in escalating order in the event that a member has a complaint or problem with another party. It is possible to enter at any point along the list and to move up or down as necessary. This is a sorely needed document and one which I believe would have prevented any number of members from not renewing. I have promised that it will be available on www.us.mensa.org with minimal searching.

In February I will be traveling to the finance committee meeting. The next regularly scheduled AMC meeting is the last weekend in March.

From your LocSec

Jerry Reshew

Nothing this month

Member Relations

Welcome to New/Returning Members, Farewell to Those Leaving

MTE

January's MTE – Saturday, January 19, 2008, 5:30 PM, was at High Cotton Grill, Gulfport. Present were Wayne, Tom, Jane and Janet. We had a very enjoyable evening. Jane brought along some very nice friends, Linda and Louis Bond. We enjoyed their visit. Hope they join us again.

February's MTE – Saturday, February 16, 2008, 5:30 PM, the Blow Fly Inn, Gulfport. Hope lots of you come.