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Arlington, Texas (June 17, 2005) – A quarter of a million IQ points will descend on New Orleans this July as members of Mensa assemble for their 43rd Annual Gathering. From July 6 until July 10, more than 1,300 members of the high IQ society will gather to debate current events, explore new topics in science and participate in a variety of workshops. In less serious moments, they will also swing dance, go on scavenger hunts and eat lots of chocolate.
“Mensa offers smart people a place to connect,” said Heather Miller, chair of the 2005 Annual Gathering. “Throughout the year, we connect with other members at local functions and online, but our Annual Gathering is a time when we can meet face-to-face with members from across the country and around the world.
“It’s hard to describe Mensa gatherings. They’re part family reunion, part symposium and part party. We have more than 200 seminars scheduled that range from cerebral to silly. Writers, actors, scientists and computer experts are lined up to discuss their fields of expertise. We also have special interest groups such as motorcycles and quilting that will meet during the event. But many people come to this event just to chat with others in our round-the-clock hospitality room, game room or at dances. It’s a diverse group with very diverse interests.”
The 2005 Annual Gathering will feature activities for all ages, from children to seniors. Special programs include a screening of Michael Murphy’s documentary “Make it Funky!” and a keynote address by actress and Mensa member Glenne Headly.
American Mensa will also be sponsoring an admission test for people curious to know if they qualify for membership. The test will be given on Wednesday, June 6 at 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 9 at 9:00 a.m. Members of the public (age 14 and older) may take the test for $30. Parental permission is required for anyone under the age of 18.
Mensa is an organization for anyone who scores in the top two percent of the general population on an accepted, standardized intelligence test. For more information about the organization, visit www.previous.us.mensa.org or call 800-66-MENSA.
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Sheraton New Orleans, 500 Canal St., 504/525-2500
Note to media: Press badges are available at the Mensa registration desk. If there is no one at the registration desk , call 972-742-7983. |
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