Radio Free Hamilton
A Local News Source As Smart As You ... Well, Almost.

By   Wed, Mar 10, 2010

Ada is a slight, quiet HCS fourth grader.

Her hair frames her face and on her glasses you can see the reflection of the screen of an Apple iPod Touch. Ada is in school and hard at work explaining how she uses the iPod every day in class ... and how much it helps her.

Her slim fingers slip across the small touch screen quickly as she bounces from a math tutorial to the copy of The Jungle Book she is reading. She speeds over the iPod keyboard like an old pro.

Ada is a member of one of two HCS fourth grade classes and a special education class that are part of a program that puts technology in the hands of kids and teaches them how to use it as a powerful learning tool. It is a program supported by donations from the Emerald Foundation, and overseen by Eric Coriale (pictured below), he enrichment coordinator for HCS.

The iPods are being used by students in the fourth grade classrooms of Sharon Follett and Patricia Rowland and the 8-1-1 special education room of Lauren Macholl.

Coriale recently explained the program to members of the Emerald Foundation and some guests earlier this week. He explained how Ada and other fourth graders have been issued iPod Touches loaded with a variety of software applications (apps), most of which are tutorials for the various lessons students are learning. The iPods are email and web-enabled during school, allowing students to send assignments to their teachers or ask questions and make observations as they work.

So far, the fourth graders have just been using the iPod Touches in the classroom. But, says Coriale, the program takes its next step shortly: allowing students to take the handheld devices home to use for their school work. He said the Internet function will be disabled when students take the devices home.

When they do start using the iPods full-time, students and their parents will be required to sign the "Respectful Use Policy" that outlines what can and cannot be done with the device.

HCS received the iPods when the Emerald Foundation bought new computers for the school. Each new computer came with an iPod Touch.

Coriale said each device is customized for the particular student. The school can purchase educational apps from iTunes. He said that one of the beauties of the technology is how it saves money.

"We can buy an ebook from Barnes and Noble once for four dollars and every student with an iPod has it sent to them by the teacher," Coriale said. This is far more advantageous than buying one copy of the book for much more money and have it available to only one child at a time.

That advantage will accrue to fifth grade teachers next year. Coriale said this year's fourth graders will take the iPod Touches with them as the advance a grade in June. The hope is to acquire more Touches so next year's fourth graders will also have access to the technology.

There will be an iPod Night at the school Monday to celebrate what students are learning; this marks the first time students will take the iPods home with them.

By   Sun, Mar 07, 2010

To paraphrase an oft used phrase: "It's a great day to be a Dark Horse."

The seventh-seeded HCS girls basketball team made that statement so true Saturday afternoon beating top seed New York Mills 40-30 to capture the Section III Class D title. Hamilton won the title by beating three teams that had bedeviled the Lady Emerald Knights during the regular season: Oriskany, Rome Catholic and New York Mills.

HCS now faces the champs of Section IV at a site, and on a day yet to be announced.

The win, according to HCS Athletic Director Bill Dowsland, is the first ever sectional championship for an HCS girls basketball team since the sport has been played here. And, it is the first girls sectional championship since Dowsland's 2004 softball team won.

Going into the sectionals second-year head Coach Jessica Pool told her team that they were the dark horses in the post-season. They had had a credible season but nothing compared the perfect mark the 2008-2009 team going into last year's sectional The Lady Emerald Knights had struggled during the regular season with several of the teams they would face.

After Saturday's win, an ebullient Poole said last year's team came into the sectionals with bulls eyes on their jerseys. Everyone was looking to end the team's perfect record, and Sacket's Harbor did.

Hamilton got off to a middling start, trailing New York Mills 10-4 at the end of the first period. But, the start of the second period also marked the beginning of the Lady Emerald Knights' turnaround.   

Mills had possession to start the second period. Their first trip down the court, Jordan Peterson blocked a shot. Hamilton raced down to the opposite end and Peterson hit a quick three-pointer. On Mills' next possession, they turned over the ball again and this time senior forward Hillary Hanson hit for two. Mills gave the ball back on a traveling call and Peterson converted on a layup and it was suddenly Hamilton on top 11-10.

The Marauders continued to struggle and Hamilton continued to hit key buckets. Katherine Keever hit a three and added two more to help move Hamilton into a 20-16 halftime lead. But, more than taking away Mills' lead, Hamilton's difficult defense also stole the momentum.

At the break, Peterson had nine points and Keever had five.

Mills began the second half in a man-to-man press. But, the Lady Knights stayed steady and methodically widened their lead to 30-19. And, as Hamilton became stronger with each possession, Mills continued to struggle; on one mid-period possession, they forced a turnover only to have it negated by a traveling call.

But, the Marauders did not play themselves out of the game. They managed to take advantage of a brief HCS letdown and made it 30-25 as the fourth period started.

Both teams had to contend with foul problems, and foul shooting issues as well as the period progressed. By the 1:15 mark, the score was 34-30, and Mills had to foul Hamilton to get the ball back. The Lady Knights mad a few of the foul shots and had a couple of timely putbacks for buckets.

The seconds ticked away between fouls and Hamilton had moved up to the final 40-30 when the final buzzer blew.

Poole, who was fortunate to have a deep bench all year (and used it) stuck with her starting five, and they delivered.

Peterson posted another of her double/double performances. She ended the game with 19 points and 16 rebounds. She added four steals and three blocks.

Keever, who had easily her best game of the season when it counted most, added nine points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal. Katie Weeks and Hanson each had six points. Hanson added seven rebounds and three blocks.

Hanson's performance earned the senior a spot on the all tournament team. Peterson was named the most valuable player of the playoffs.

By   Wed, Mar 10, 2010

Destiny Smith, a kindergartener at HCS, and her mom, Nicole admire the youg artist's work "Snowman" in the KidsART 2010 exhibit that runs through April 3.  Hours for the galleries are Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat. noon to 3 p.m.

By   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

The Post-Standard today reports that two Republicans each claim to be the official opposition for Sen. Dave Valesky, the Democrat incumbent whose 49th Sistrict includes Hamilton. And, it appears that Bill Magee -- whose 111th Assembly District covers this area -- may face former HCS teacher, turned activist, turned lawyer Dave Vickers. Read the story.

By   Mon, Mar 01, 2010

The Altar and Rosary Society of  St. Mary’s Church will hold it’s annual Spring Fair on Saturday, March 20 from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Parish Center on West Kendrick St. (handicapped accessible and across from the Hamilton Central School).  

On sale will be handmade crafts and gifts, baked goods, religious articles, white elephants, door prizes, and a penny auction of theme baskets will be featured.

By   Sat, Feb 27, 2010

Ryan Loomis may have been the first man to cross the finish line at last week's Heat Up Hamilton duathalon and Kristy Johnston was the winning woman, but the big winner was the Hamilton Food Cupboard.

Event organizer Charlie Melichar said the event raised enough money to present the food cupboard with a check for $500.

He also said the top finishers included the following:

Top Men Finishers:

1. Ryan Loomis (Hamilton),

2. Mark Daley (West Winfield),

3. Glen Miley (Sherrill)

Top Women Finishers:

1. Kristy Johnston (Syracuse),

2. Laura Westerhold (Hamilton),

3.Kelly Nagle (Hamilton)

Relays:

1. Liz Helfer (Alfred) & Austin Hirsch (Hamilton),

2. Sarah Weiss (Clinton) & Lyle Roelofs (Hamilton),

3. Chris Maccini (Hamilton) & Greg Bricca (Hamilton)

Melichar added some more names to the list of people who helped make the first duathalon a success. He sais:

"Two groups of folks really put their shoulders into planning the event. Up at Base Camp we had a group of race veterans including Abby Rowe, Kara Rusch, Xan Karn, Shannon Cutting, Rick Hanson, Janel Benson, Barbara Gorka, Ian and Astrid Helfant. Over at the Barge, a group of events gurus met, including Reg Wilson, Ben Eberhardt, Joanne Borfitz, Anne Clauss, Tim Mansfield, Jana Truett-Crouch and Jill Smith.

"So many volunteers came out to make sure duathlon participants and folks who came out for fun on the Village Green were supported and in good spirits. From Outdoor Education first responders and the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority to Lynda O’Keeffe, Megan Wyatt, and Scott Brown, there were smiling faces everywhere you turned.

"The event was well chronicled by photographers Jim Leach, Reg Wilson, Bob Cornell, Alice Virden-Speer and Margie Bikowsky, who duathletes may have seen out on the course in snowshoes!

"So many sponsors and supporters deserve credit. The Wellness Initiative, Outdoor Education, The Colgate Inn, the Village of Hamilton, SOMAC, the Hamilton Business Alliance, Dr. Michael Zahn, Seven Oaks, Colgate B&G, the PCD, Donna Jarcho, Adventure Bikes & Boards, Cossitt Concrete, Oliveri’s, Burt Marshall, Greg Gutsche of Wooden Snowflakes, Road ID and Price Chopper."

The total lists of results include:

Men's Results

  Women's Results

Relay Results

By   Sat, Feb 27, 2010

Susan Marafino, right, of Hamilton Chiropractic Health Center, sponsor of last week's children's film at Hamilton Theater, with daughter Izzy (left) and friend Sage Hurta.

This Saturday's feature in the Alliance Bank Children's Matinee series at 12:30p.m. is Hotel for Dogs, sponsored by Nilles Ford and Mercury.

Admission is free.

By   Sat, Feb 27, 2010

The Colgate Bookstore will present a morning of silliness with a Rhyming Dust Bunnies children's program on Saturday, March 20 at 11 a.m.  The event will feature two stories about colorful dust bunnies, rhyming games, a related craft and a snack. 

The program is free and open to children of all ages, but is mainly geared towards ages 3-7.

Bookstore staff will introduce children to this silly picture book series which includes Rhyming Dust Bunnies and Here Comes the Big, Mean Dust Bunny! written and illustrated by Jan Thomas.  The stories highlight the adventures of Ed, Ned, and Ted, three dust bunnies who like to rhyme -- all the time! -- and their pal Bob who doesn't seem to understand how rhyming works. 
 
Not only does this series teach children about rhyming, it also promotes patience, working together, and positive conflict resolution skills in a fun and light-hearted way.  Rhyming Dust Bunnies has been chosen as a Kirkus Best Children's Book, one of the New York Public Library's Top 100 Books for Reading and Sharing, and is a National Parenting Publications Honors Award Winner.
 
Copies of this program's featured titles will be offered at 20 percent off to parents who bring their children to this event. 

For more information about Bookstore children's programs, please call (315) 228-6944 or visit www.colgatebookstore.com and click on the Children's Program link on the Events page. 

By   Sat, Feb 27, 2010

MAD Art is looking for artists and crafters to submit abstract art works to exhibit in its 2010 Abstract Art Exhibit. Any mediums are welcome such as painting, sculpture, mixed media and more.

MAD Art is accepting work on Friday, March 26 from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday, March 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit will run from April 2 through June 5. 

Visit http://www.madartinc.org/callforart.html for submission guidelines.

By   Sat, Feb 27, 2010

The Colgate Chamber Players, now in their 23rd season directed by Laura Klugherz, will present Images and Impressions, a collage of colorful chamber music for strings, winds and piano on Sunday, March 7 at 3:30 p.m. in the Colgate Memorial Chapel.  

Violinist Linda Rosenthal completes her week-long residency by performing with the Colgate students in works of Spohr and Mendelssohn.  The seldom heard Sextet for strings and piano by Felix Mendelssohn will feature freshman pianist Kiera Crowley. The program begins with a serenade by Beethoven.

Rosenthal has performed in Europe, Asia, North America and the South Pacific. She is the founder and artistic director of Juneau Jazz & Classics, an annual festival that features nationally renowned jazz and classical artists, now celebrating its 24^th year.  She is the artistic irector of the Lake Placid Chamber Music Seminar in New York and professor of Music at the University of Alaska Southeast in Juneau, where she makes her home. 

Rosenthal also tours Strings & Stories, a show for young audiences that she created and premiered at the Kennedy Center in 1995. Since then, she has performed the show annually for thousands of children throughout the country.

The concert is free and open to the public.

For more information, call the Colgate Music Department at 228-7642. 

By   Thu, Feb 25, 2010

Mayor Sue McVaugh is pleased with the way village and county crews kept up with the double-digit snowfall of the last two days, but is less encouraged by the work of some folks who are plowing driveways.  And, she reminds village residents that they are responsible for keeping the sidewalk in front of their homes cleared.

McVaugh got a "boots on the snow" firsthand look at conditions early this morning, and said:

"I just got back from an hour's walk with the dogs. The roads are very passable - thanks to round the clock plowing by the village and the county (Utica/Broad Streets). The sidewalks were terrific when I set out. However, the longer I walked, the more trouble I had. This is because people who clear the driveways are just now coming out and dumping mountains of snow right on the sidewalks and then not cleaning them up.

"I don't know how to address this unacceptable behavior. I'd hate to start ticketing homeowners, but the law is that the property owner is responsible for keeping the sidewalk clear.

"So, a big thumbs up to the plowers of streets and sidewalks. Just the opposite to those people who deliberately go and mess up the job.

The snowfall closed HCS for the second day in a row. It also has caused the girls basketball team's sectional tournament game against Rome Catholic scheduled for tonight to be canceled.

In other storm-related news, State Police have still not released the names of the woman killed in a snow-related accident on Route 12B south of Hamilton Thursday morning, nor have they said who was driving the tractor-trailer that was also involved in the collision.

The accident was the most serious of several mishaps around the region as the first hard winter storm of the year made its way into the greater Hamilton Wednesday night and Thursday morning. The snow continued throughout the day, making the after-work drive home difficult.

The storm also closed HCS, as well as most every other school in the region. While Syracuse University and LeMoyne College in Onondaga County canceled classes and closed early, it was almost business as usual at Colgate. Classes continued though some departments allowed employees to leave at 2 p.m. Second and third shift employees were told to check with supervisors if determine whether they needed to report.

Village plows and sidewalk cleaners appeared to be on constant patrol all day Thursday. And, a Municipal Utility crew (in photo below) cut down a sizeable tree on Milford Street near the former John's Shoe Store warehouse.

State Police say a head-on collision occurred at about 8 a.m. Thursday when a car traveling south on 12B near Middleport Road crossed the center line and struck a tractor trailer. The driver of the car was killed.

At the time of the collision, the road was snow covered.

The Hamilton Fire Department Rescue and SOMAC responded.

By   Thu, Feb 25, 2010

The current status of health care in America is the topic of a discussion during a program at Colgate Thursday, March 4 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. It will be held in Persson Hall Auditorium.

The speakers for this discussion will be:

+ Paul Boulis, former president of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois;

+ Robert DeLorme, vice president for Hospitalist and Primary Care Services, Community Memorial Hospital;

+ Joti Khanna, associate professor of economics, Colgate University;

+ Dr. Ellen Larson '94, family practitioner, Bassett Healthcare of Hamilton;

+ Dr. Merrill Miller, adjunct professor of the health sciences and director of Student Health Services, Colgate University.

This event is free and open to the public.

By   Wed, Feb 24, 2010

The members of the Hamilton Future Farmers of America group is busy with National FFA week. which runs through Friday.

The theme ofthe week is “Lead Out Loud” and the chapter is trying to be leaders in at school, and in the community. One thing being done for the community is a food drive tobenefit the Hamilton & Hubbardsville Food cupboards.

The FFA chapter members realize that the Food Cupboards gets many donations during the months of November and December,but many times, they do not receive as much food during the rest of the year. 

The group is asking the rest of the community to be involved. All donations should be put in the box outside the main office at HCS.

By   Wed, Feb 24, 2010

The Chenango Nursery School will host a Winter Fun Day at Colgate’s Starr Rink on Sunday, from 11a.m. to 2 p.m. with skating from noon to 1p.m.

The afternoon will include games, face painting, crafts, entertainment, skating, and more. Concessions will be available for purchase.

For more information, call Donna Jarcho at 824-1109, or Denise Dinski at CNS at 824-1810.

By   Mon, Feb 22, 2010

More than 100 skiers/runners participated in the first Heat Up Hamilton Duathalon -- cross country skiing and running -- held Sunday in the village.

Colgate sophomore Ryan Loomis was the first to cross the finish line. Mark Daley of West Winfield was second.

The skiing course started and finished at the former driving range at Seven Oaks. The running course covered five kilometers along village streets and on the Colgate campus. The finish line was in front of the Hamilton Public Library.

Finishers had the opportunity to warm up around a large fire on the village green and enjoy an expansive menu of post-race food.

The duathalon was the brainchild of Charlie Melichar, who when not organizing the event, is Colgate's VP for public relations and marketing. A triathalon participant himself, Melichar envisioned Sunday's event as a seasonal extension of what he does the rest of the year.

He said he was pleased with its outcome and thanked a number of people and organizations that helped make it possible. Melichar said:

"This was all about a great group of people coming together around ideas and working to make them happen. I really don't deserve the credit and attention here. Anyone can have an idea, it takes a Village (literally in this case!) to turn it into reality.

"To see so many happy, active people out on a Sunday afternoon in late February here in Hamilton made it a home run (or whatever the multisport equivalent would be) in my opinion. It was great to see all of those friendly faces from Hamilton and all around New York, from Oneida and Cazenovia to Syracuse, Manlius, Otego, Watertown and beyond -- even northern Pennsylvania! About a third of our more than 100 total participants were from out of town.

"The events on the Village Green, drawing in families of participants and others from around town were fantastic. What better way to get together on a chilly February day than hanging around by a bonfire in the center of town. It was such a unique way for folks to spend an afternoon with old and new friends, with kids running around and playing in the snow.

"So many people worked hard over the past couple of months to pull this together and that was probably the most amazing part in my opinion. We started pulling this event together about two months ago and it came off with relatively few hitches. That's all because of the enthusiasm, hard work and a good dose of smarts of all the volunteers and planners involved:

"Abby Rowe and the Outdoor Education team put in countless hours of meticulous care to ensure a great ski course.

"Rick Hanson designed a great, challenging run course and even pulled in family and friends to be sure that all went well at the finish.

"The duo of multisport veteran Xan Karn and event pro Tim Mansfield made sure that athletes started off, transitioned and finished smoothly, and Tim even pulled off a food challenge that highlighted some of the great soup, wings and hot drinks Hamilton has to offer.

"Anne Clauss somehow managed to organize kid games, pull together the bonfire and participate in the duathlon.

"Bill LaRuffa was the man behind the fire, with help and contributions from the Village and Cossitt Concrete, and
that made for such a unique, warmer afternoon.

"Dr. Michael Zahn and the SOMAC crew didn't see much action over the course of the day and that's how we like it. The same goes for the Hamilton Police officers who helped to ensure safe crossings for our runners.

"All of our sponsors and supporters were critical in making the event possible and the full list of folks who helped plan all of the events is too long for purposes here, but it was a big group of people who helped in ways big and small -- and the small stuff is really the big stuff!

"I hope everyone was proud of what we did together yesterday. What a fun way to spend a winter Sunday.

"I'm not done with the final numbers, but we will be making a nice contribution to the Hamilton Food Cupboard this week thanks to the proceeds from race dues. Again, volunteers and generous contributions -- particularly in terms of equipment -- are why we are going to be able to do this.

"At the end of the day though, this event wouldn't have been an event without all of the duathlon participants and folks who came out to enjoy the fire and participate in the activities. Thanks to all for Heating Up Hamilton.

By   Fri, Feb 19, 2010

Gestures, the gift and eclectic home furnishings store on Lebanon Street, is closing.

Signs in the window advertising a sale say the last day of business is Feb. 27.

No one from Gestures was available this afternoon for comment.

By   Thu, Feb 18, 2010

An eclectic band its frontman likens to hillbilly Pink Floyd will be at The Barge Canal Coffee Company at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27.

Gandalf Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams returns for what has become an annual stand at the Barge. (And, no, there is no Gandalf Murphy in the band, nor is there a country named Slambovia on the map.)

The band, which hails from the mid-Hudson Valley, includes:

+ Joziah Longo - vocals, acoustic guitar, harmonica

+ Tink Lloyd - accordion, cello, Theremin, piccolo, vocals

+ Sharkey McEwen - electric guitars, mandolin, backing vocals

+ Tony Zuzulo - drums, percussion 

+ Orien Longo - bass, backing vocals, keyboards, percussion

The band has released three CDs on its own label:

+ The Great Unravel (2008),

+ Flapjacks from the Sky (2004)

+ and A Good Thief Tips His Hat (1998).

Frontman Joziah Longo describes the band's music as "punk-classical-hillbilly-Floyd".

Visit the band at www.slambovia.com

Gandalf Murphy on YouTube.

Visit the Barge at www.bargecanal.com

By   Wed, Feb 17, 2010

Colgate will host a discussion of the presence of natural gas within the Utica and Marcellus shales in the greater Hamilton area.

Geology professor Dr. Bruce Selleck will discuss "Depositional Environment, Stratigraphy and Natural Gas Potential of the Utica and Marcellus Shales in New York State" on Tuesday at 11:30 a.m.

The discussion will be held in room 243 of the Ho Science Center. Lunch is available; bring your own beverage.

Selleck has been in demand as an expert on the topic of natural gas exploration in Upstate New York.

"We are in the midst of a natural gas expansion," Selleck said during a recent presentation to the Madison County Board of Supervisors. "We need to be aware of it, take advantage of it, and realize the trade-offs involved."

He believes the current "gas boom" provides an economic opportunity for landowners, but also involves environmental risks.

Environmentalists oppose it, fearing the drilling process used to reach the gas will pollute groundwater and pose a public health threat.

Gas drillers say billions of dollars' worth of natural gas is in the shale formation, and New York state stands to reap millions in revenues by licensing the drilling, which they say can be done safely.

By   Mon, Feb 15, 2010

Hamilton Public Library will host a program about New York State's covered bridges Feb. 25 at 7 p.m.in the library's Community Room.

"Spanning New York State" will be the topic of the program offered by Bob and Trish Kane members of numerous covered bridge organizations across the United States. Their presentation, an armchair tour of 33 of the state's existing historic covered bridges, will follow the business portion of the Historical Society's business meeting.

The public is welcome to this free event.

The Kane's have been actively pursuing the preservation of covered bridges since 1993. Currently, they are assisting the Oxford Town historian on a book about Theodore Burr, a famous bridge builder whose former home is located in Oxford.

In 2002, the Kane's spearheaded the DeLorme Atlas Project where Covered Bridge enthusiasts across the country joined them in submitting maps and directions to covered bridges to DeLorme for inclusion in future atlases. 

They also are co-founders of a project titled Covered Spans of Yesteryear. Once completed, this endeavor will document all past covered bridges known to have existed in the United States and Canada (www.lostbridges.org).

The couple is also currently working on a driving tour of New York's covered bridges.

Following the presentation, the Kane's will have covered bridge information and memorabilia available to the public.

By   Mon, Feb 15, 2010

You've heard of Ladies Night at some clubs and bars, right?

Others pump up their business by saluting nurses, dental hygenists, vet techs, you name it.

But, the Barge Canal Coffee Company has broken new ground: Friday is Chaplains Night. Yes, chaplains, spiritual leaders, keepers of their flocks.

From 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Colgate's three chaplains will perform. A description on the event's Facebook page says it will be, "An evening of eclectic spiritual roots music and more!"

On stage will be Mark Shiner (Catholic), David Levy (Jewish) and Putter Cox (Protestant). They will be joined by some musical friends as well.

Communion will not be served.

By   Sat, Feb 13, 2010

Categorize Caravan of Thieves, the band that takes over the Barge Canal coffee Company at 8 p.m. tonight.

Go ahead. We'll give you a day or two.

This band anchored in the gypsy jazz the likes of Django Rheinghrdt and the Hot Club of Paris is not the typical group to play at the Barge. No brooding indy rock or emo licks.

Get a preview of them on YouTube.

This group plays chamber pop, 1920s hot jazz, vaudeville, folk, bluegrass ... you name it. And they do it with a flourish.

The Band of Thieves is not new to the Chenago Valley. The previously played the Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival in Norwich.

Check out the video on their web page

Become Facebook friends withe the thieves.

Their Twitter feed.

By   Fri, Feb 12, 2010

There will be a new section of sky hanging over the third annual Skyway Music Festival come June. And, there will be some new local folks honored, a different feel and, of course, some new music on the schedule.

But, organizers say the goal remains the same: honor the memory of local musicians and help those players still in their formative stages.

Some of the basics have changed:

1. New date: Skyway will be held June 12 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (It previously was held in July and last year in September.)

2. New location: It will be held at Hooks Wiltse Field at the Eaton Street Park. (It has been on the village green since it began.)

3. New feel: It is becoming more of a big picnic instead of a concert. Restaurants are being asked to donate food and folks can bring their own.(Some vendors like Holy Smoke sold food on their own.)

4. New price: And, there will be admission charged: $10 per carload of picnicers. (The concert was free on the village green.)

Pamme Swan, one of the organizers of event, said the changes are for good reasons: "Skyway is being revamped and moving to Wiltse Field for a few reasons. Its cheaper to rent. The whole event will be under cover as it always rains."

Skyway will continue to be a tribute to the life and music of Hamilton musician Craig Getchonis. Swan said that "... sadly now in memory of Keith Liddle and David Bartlett," two other local young men who passed recently.

And, the concert will continue to raise money for the Friends of Music, which supports the HCS music program.

Look for a differnt music flavor to Skyway this year. Swan said performers from previous years have been invted back, and there are plans for an ope mic jam session. Plans are in the works for a prominent headline band as well.

Swan said organizers hope to have other activities like workshops and a Skyway lounge chair painting.

By   Fri, Feb 12, 2010

If all the details are worked out, Haitian native and former member of the Fugees, Wyclef Jean, will perform at Colgate for Spring Party Weekend in late April.

The Colgate Maroon News reports that Jean was the clear winner in recently concluded online voting. Runner up was Pitbull.

The selection of Jean comes after university officials said a concert by the students' first choice, Snoop Dogg, would pose too many logistical issues.

Jean, 37, has a self-titled album due out some time this year. He recently was a guest speaker during the Hope for Haiti Concert and performed at the Nobel Peace Prize ceremonies in Oslo, Norway last December.

Jean's Colgate concert is slated for April 24 on Whitnall Field.

Last year's headliner was Lupe Fiasco.

Follow Wyclef Jean on Twitter.

By   Thu, Feb 11, 2010

Hamilton Theater's Grand Operas in Cinema series concludes for the season with Georges Bizet's classic opera Carmen on Sunday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m.

Set in Seville, Spain in the mid-19^th century, Carmen is the story of a beautiful gypsy who loves only those who don't love her.  Initially not well received, Carmen became and still is one of the most famous and popular works in the opera repertoire.

Performed at Teatro alla Scala in Milan, Italy, this production features a new generation of opera stars, including the German tenor Jonas Kaufmann, the Uruguayan baritone Erwin Schrott, the Italian soprano Adriana Damata and the newest revelation Georgian mezzo-soprano Anita Rachvelishvli.

This is the sixth opera in Hamilton Theater's Grand Operas in Cinema series.  Operas are presented in high definition digital image and surround sound.  Guests are invited to enjoy intermissions at the Mad Arts Gallery adjacent to the theater, featuring complimentary wine, beer and refreshments, hosted by the Colgate Inn.

For tickets and information, contact Hamilton Theater at 824-8210 or go to www.hamiltontheater.net.

By   Thu, Feb 11, 2010

Members of the Colgate community will have a great looking new place to get sweaty by this time next year.

The university has posted a website with some renderings of the new fitness center that will be built roughly in the current parking lot in front of the Lineberry Natatorium adjacent to Hunting Gymnasium on Rte. 12B South.

The new fitness center will include 15,000 square feet of space. It will also allow the current space in Huntington to be reassigned for other fitness purposes.

It is expect the new fitness center will be open in January of 2011. Donations are already in-hand for the project.

By   Wed, Feb 10, 2010

The Palace Theater will host a 24 Hour Improv Slam Saturday, March 6 at 8 p.m.

The Palace Players, Hamilton's community theater, invites teams to enter the competition. Teams consist of three to 10 members at least 14 years old who enjoy performing, and may or may not have any acting skills. Teams only need to be creative, spontaneous, possess a free spirit and willingness to perform live on stage in front of an audience.

Each team will have 24 hours to create a 7-10 minute skit based on a common theme.

For example each team would be given words such as "city bus" to creatively develop a skit around that theme. Each team captain will be notified of the common theme on Friday, March 5 at noon, then have 24 hours to work with their members to create an original skit. There will be rehearsals on the stage at The Palace Theater Saturday, March 6 in the afternoon. Teams are allowed to use props and costumes, but no set pieces. Judges will score each team on their originality and team work.

The team registration and $10 fee are due Feb. 26. Tickets are $5 available when the doors open at 7:30pm.

Registration forms are available by calling the Palace Theater.

By   Wed, Feb 10, 2010

Fun.

That is the goal of the first Heat Up Hamilton winter duathalon to be run/skied Sunday, Feb. 21, according to event organizer Charlie Melichar.

And the fun gets under way the day before. On Saturday, the Colgate Inn is offering a pre-race pasta dinner for athletes who want to load on the carbohydrates ... and those who like pasta.

The dinner will be staged from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday. The dinner includes a tossed salad, broccoli, garlic bread, penne pasta with either marinara or Alfredo sauce, with brownies, coffee or tea. The cost is $15, including tax and gratuity. Kids from 6-10 years old will get the buffet for 1/2 price and those under 5 are free.

Sunday's schedule includes:

+ Noon bonfire on the village green at noon;

+ 1 p.m. start of the 6K cross-country ski race followed by a 5K run.

       - Register

       - See interactive course maps

+ 1 p.m. Hamilton Food Challenge; sample hot drinks, soups and chicken wings from places around the village and vote for the best.

+ 1 p.m. Family activities;

+ 3 p.m. Awards ceremony.

"We're getting registrations from all over the place," said Melichar, who also is VP for Communications and Public Relations at Colgate. "With plenty of folks from Hamilton and others coming from Syracuse, Frankfurt, Oriskany Falls, Clinton, etc.

"We're also getting a good blend of individual and relay registrations, so we should see all sorts of finish times.

"At the end of the day though, this is all about having some fun!"

By   Tue, Feb 09, 2010

The village Recreation Program offers several answers to the lament parents can expect to hear next week during the HCS winter vacation break: "Why isn't there anything to do?"

The slate of activities include:

Saturday, Feb. 13: 

  1:00-3:00pm  Bowling  Reid Athletic Center, Colgate

  $1.25/game, shoes free

  7:00pm  Colgate Men's Hockey: Colgate v. Brown  Starr Rink, Colgate

  Children 12 and under who bring the attached coupon will receive a free general admission ticket to the game.

Monday, Feb. 15 

  1:00-2:30pm  Family Skate Starr Rink, Colgate

Tuesday, Feb. 16 

  1:00-2:30pm  Family Swim Lineberry Pool, Colgate

Wednesday, Feb. 17 

  10:00-11:40am  Movie: "Monsters vs. Aliens" (PG)  Hamilton Movie Theater

  1:00-2:30pm  Family Skate  Starr Rink, Colgate

  3:00-4:30pm  Rock Climbing Instruction   Angert Climbing Wall, Huntington Gym. Limited to 15 children, 3rd grade or older.   Signed parental waiver required. 

Thursday, Feb. 18 

  1:00-2:30pm  Family Swim  Lineberry Pool, Colgate

Saturday, Feb. 20

2:00pm  Colgate Women's Basketball: Colgate v. Bucknell  Reid Athletic Center, Colgate

"Take a Kid to the Game": Any adult who takes a child 12 or under to the game will receive free admission for two adults and one child. This game is also a Pink Zone game, to raise awareness for cancer. Free pink t-shirts will be distributed while supplies last. Head Women's Basketball Coach Pam Bass will donate $1 to benefit cancer research for every fan in attendance.

By   Tue, Feb 09, 2010

Colgate jazz instructor and saaphonist Glenn Cashman will make a rare musical appearance in Hamilton at La Iguana restaurant Sunday, Valentine's Day from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Cashman will playing jazz and Brazilian standards on the keyboard.

Aside from teaching at Colgate, Chashman 4-5 times a year to Southern, CA to perform and record during extended visits. He has also served as Director of Jazz Studies at Cal State Fullerton and Towson University in Baltimore.

By   Mon, Feb 08, 2010

Colgate grad and Pulitzer Prize winning writer/reporter Chris Hedges's latest book, Empire of Illusion: The End of Literacy and the Triumph of Spectacle, was the topic of a lectue at the University of Vermont Law School recently. Vermont Public Radio presents the audio of that speech.

Hedges is a senior fellow at the Nation Institute and author of numerous books. He was a foreign correspondent for The New York Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Christian Science Monitor and National Public Radio. Hedges was part of the team of reporters that won the 2002 Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting for The New York Times' coverage of global terrorism.

Hedges graduated from Colgate in 1979.

By   Mon, Feb 08, 2010

Discussions about the 2010/2011 HCS budget have already started, both formally and informally. Many more conversations are to come.

But, already, there are plenty of comments flying about like rabid bats. Some are inaccurate, others are outright lies. Some are ill-cosidered but many are meant to be hurtful and add nothing to the conversation. And, many are simply uttered without having the benefit of the facts.

Because of that -- and because the well-being of children is at stake -- we hope that people will seriously consider being as thoughtful as possible when they join the discussion. In fact, HCS itself offers a good outlook in its Civility Policy. It says:

We believe that effective dialogue can occur only in an atmosphere of mutual respect; therefore,

It is the policy of the Hamilton Central School Board of Education to conduct its business at meetings and in all communications, written and oral, in a manner that models respect and civility. 

We invite and expect members of the public to share this commitment with us. 

Further, we expect that the district's students, faculty and staff members, parent and student organizations, committees and members of the community will, in their written communications and while participating in meetings, school activities and other school related interactions, be guided by this policy, and will conduct themselves with civility and respect.

Truly, that is not too much to ask. This is behavior that responsible parents expect of their children, so ought to model it themselves.

This year has a potential for being a contentious one for deciding how HCS will raise and spend its money. Superintendent Dr. Diana Bowers and the Board of Education has asked repeatedly for the thoughts, opinions, suggestions and HELP of the community in creating what, because of state funding cuts, will be a difficult fiscal plan.

If you do decide to be part of the solution, keep the HCS Civility Policy in mind.

By   Sat, Feb 06, 2010

Environmental issues will be the topic of a panel discussion and film screening Tuesday beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Colgate.

Sustainability and Alternative Transportation Technology is the title of the program that includes a screening of Chris Paine's film Who Killed the Electric Car? The program will be held in Love Auditorium of Olin Hall.

Paine is a graduate of Colgate.

On the pabel are:

• Geology Professor Bruce Selleck '71
• Professor Ron Alexander from Morrisville State College
• Barry Carr, Coordinator - Clean Communities of CNY
• Eric Chamberlain of Evergreen Electric Vehicle Co.
• John Pumilio, Colgate Sustainability Coordinator
• Moderated by Tim Mansfield

There wil be a reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by the film and a question and answer period.

By   Sat, Feb 06, 2010

MAD Art, announces its slate of winter/spring workshops beginning this month.

Local photographer Rich Grant kicks off the season Feb. 24 at his home studio, demonstrating the best practices for photographing your artwork and techniques for printing on canvas and silk.

Also, basket maker Jean Chapin holds an all-day workshop on the Feb 27.

In March glass artist Amber Blanding hosts a fused glass workshop to create a one of a kind pendant. Sue Lappan designs art quilts and eco-friendly creations for kids.  In this two-session workshop create and execute your own design into an art quilt.

In April, Rosita Dickson will hold an all-day workshop, for all skill levels, entitled Focus on the Face - The Portrait. Chinese Brush Painting will be presented by Jane Taylor. Harriette Adamson will teach participants how to make real-looking flowers, and Meredith Leland Getchonis will offer a four-session writing workshop.

Also Sami Martinez will demonstrate how to put together a simple, colorful and flavorful Indian weeknight meal in May. Also in May, Leigh Yardley will discuss the mud oven built last fall at Common Thread Community Farm. and teach participants how to build a fire for the oven and share in preparing dough and baking.

In June, MAD Art, Inc. leads a tour and a hands-on workshop at Golden Artists Paints near New Berlin.

To learn more about the workshops and registration, call 824-1843 or email madartinc@gmail.com.  

By   Sat, Feb 06, 2010

A Wall Street whiz who is also a novelist will be at the Colgate Bookstore Feb. 25

Wealth advisor-turned-novelist Norb Vonnegut (a distant cousin of mega-novelist Kurt Vonnegut) will read from and discuss his new Wall Street thriller Top Producer at 7 p.m. at the Colgate Bookstore.  A book-signing and reception will follow.

This event is free and open to the public. Copies of the book are available at a 25% discount at the Colgate Bookstore.

In Top Producer, protagonist Grove O'Rourke is a rising star at a brokerage firm, and after he and several hundred others witness his close friend die, Grove sets out to help Charlie's widow. It seems the money Charlie was managing seems to have vanished.

Publisher's Weekly, in a starred review, called Top Producer "The gold standard for financial thrillers."  It was a "This Week's Hot Reads" selection at The Daily Beast, and a recommended book in USA Today and Smart Money.

Norb Vonnegut built an extensive career with Morgan Stanley, Paine Webber, and other Wall Street institutions. He graduated from Harvard College in 1980 and earned his MBA from Harvard Business School in 1986.

Norb Vonnegut is now editing The Fund, a thriller scheduled to print in the winter of 2010/2011. For more info on Norb's Wall Street thrillers, visit his author website, www.norbvonnegut.com.  Or visit his blog, www.acrimoney.com, for non-fiction insights into today's financial news.

By   Fri, Feb 05, 2010

by Barbara Coger, Library Director

Hamilton Public Library will host it's second family fun game night on Thursday, Feb. 18 at 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Bring your favorite board game or play Apple to Apples, Boggle, Scrabble Slam, Monopoly Deal, or Pictureka! Or take a turn on our own mandolin, a Dave Folta original made from recycled materials. All ages are welcome.

It was a fun time last year with families braving the snowy weather to play Twister and match wits with challenging games. Refreshments will be provided.

Our "Bear-a-dise" continues. There is still a nice selection of Beanie Baby Bears and Beanie Buddies for only $3-$6. Take your pick from those on display behind the circulation desk.  There is still time to buy a $.25 raffle ticket for the fine china collector's plate from the Lovable Teddies Collection. The drawing will be held on Saturday, Feb. 13.

Funds from the teddy bear sale will be used to purchase picture books for the children's area. We have already purchased I AM A BACKHOLE by Anna Grossnickle Hines and CAT DREAMS  by Ursula Le Guin. 

The library's meeting rooms are busy these days with literacy tutoring, U.S. Census testing and free tax assistance. If you are interested in finding out more information about any of these opportunities, call the library, 824-3060, for more information.

The library will be closed Monday, Feb. 15, in observance of Presidents Day.  

The library is usually open Monday-Friday, 11 am - 8 pm, and Saturday, 10 am - 1 pm. Call the library for assistance during these hours. The bookdrop at the Broad Street entrance is always open for your convenience.

Photo: Library staff member Barbara Taibi with a mandolin created by Dave Folta.

By   Fri, Feb 05, 2010

The prestigious Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour comes to the Hamilton Theater on Thursday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. 

An international film competition featuring the world’s best footage on mountain subjects, the festival tour showcases a selection of the most inspiring and thought-provoking short films in a two-hour program.  An expert from the Banff Centre will host the evening, and give out prizes to the audience.

“This year’s tour will be awesome,” said Michael Savage, assistant director of Colgate University’s Outdoor Education Program, which coordinates the event.  “The filmmakers include outdoor adventurers and world class athletes.  The short films selected feature everything from biking, climbing, skiing and kayaking to adventure, mountain culture and the environment.”

Advance tickets are on sale at the theater and through the Colgate Outdoor Education Program.  Advance tickets are $12 ($10 for students) and tickets at the door are $14 ($12 for students).

For further information and advance tickets, call 824-8210.

In photo: Michael Savage (right) from Colgate’s Outdoor Education Program with Hamilton Theater Technical Director Henry O’Connell and Kristi Beetch from the Banff Centre.

By   Fri, Feb 05, 2010

Colgate's Spring Party Weekend potential rap headliner Snoop Dogg will not be bringing his entourage to Hamilton.

The Colgate Marron-News reports that in a meeting of many top administrators Monday, it was decided that Colgate and the Village of Hamilton do not have sufficinet resources -- security or logistics -- to handle the large crowd that Snoop Dogg would be expected to attract.

Spring Party Weekend planners are looking for a replacement. 

This review of a recent Snoop Dogg concert in Santa Ana, CA seems to point out some of the administration's concerns. Snoop Dogg is associated with pro-marijuana issues as detailed in this concert review from the Tampa Bay Times.

By   Thu, Feb 04, 2010

Colgate students, faculty, staff and others ought to be twice as fit starting next year as the university is building a new, bigger fitness center on Rte. 12B south near the Lineberry Natatorium (a.k.a.) the pool.

The new fitness center will be about twice the size of the existing Wm. Brian Little Fitness Center in Huntington Gymnasium. That three-story facility covers 9,000 sqare feet. It cost $1.2 million in 1994.

The new fitness center will be located between the pool and Rte, 12B South. It will fill much of the current parking lot in front of the pool; a new lot will be built to the south of it.

With gifts already committed to pay for it, construction for the new fitness center is expected to start shortly. Its anticipated opening is January of next year.

Check back for more details.

By   Thu, Feb 04, 2010

Residents of the Town of Hamiton will have an opportunity to be part of an art event that demonstrates the "commoness of being unique".

New York City artist Allan McCollum has created a process by which he can create more than enough one-of-a-kind shapes -- black silhouettes on a white background -- for every person on earth, and then some. He can create 31 billion uniqe shapes, and plans to use the Town of Hamilton to demonstrate his process.

During several days in April, Colgate faculty and students will distribute some 6,000 5" x 7" printed shapes to all residents of the Town of Hamilton. Each will be signed by the artist.

Before they are distributed, they will be shown at the Clifford Gallery on campus March 8-31.

Dewitt Godfrey, art and art history professor at Colgate and the person coordinating McCollum's project, said McCollom has been working with shapes for many years.

"It's about the commoness of being unique," he said. "This addresses the idea of community in interesting ways."

Godfrey said the McCollom Shapes project is not only about moving art off og campus and into the community, but also about about moving art out of museums.

"We're interested in different ways that art can exist outside of traditional spaces," he said.

Godfrey said the distribution of the shapes will be performed on two weekends in April at locations in the town. He said it was important to not have the distribution not just on the Colgate campus, so that people felt it was truly a community-wide event.

He hopes that residents will be enthused about the project. Godfrey praised the Town of Hamilton for assisting in the project.

In 2005, the artist designed The Shapes project and has since used his process of creating unque items in many different kinds of projects. The items have been produced as prints but also as sculpture in Plexiglas, Corian, plywood, hardwoods, metals, rubber, and fabric, in a variety of sizes. And, he has collaborate with a community library, schoolchildren, home craftworkers, writers, architects and other artists.

Others at Colgate have helped McCollum, who is the Christian A. Johnson Distinguished Artist in Residence at Cogate, prepare for the event.

Visual Resources Curator Jesse Henderson developed the database that catalogs the shapes for Hamilton and has outlined the workflow required to produce each print.

Mark Williams, art studio technician, helped devise a methodology to get the shapes into a printable format, and Michael Holobosky from campus document services will be the prepress technician who manages the printing.

See the video of McCollum's recent visit to campus.

By   Thu, Feb 04, 2010

Sushi.

Ask HCS students Cecilia Westre (left in photo) and Mara Duran (right in photo) what has been one of their fondest discoveries about life in small town America, and the two girls -- Cecilia from Norway and Mara from Mexico -- almost answer in unison, "Sushi." And, they answer enthusiastically.

Westre, 17 and from Lillehammer and Duran, 18 and from Irapuato are just now halfway through their year in the U.S. as exchange students. Westre came to Hamilton as part of the American Field Service high school exchange program. It was the Rotary Exchange program that brought Duran to the village.

Joining the HCS Class of 2010 as the school year began last September, Mara and Cecilia have fallen into step with their classmates, have learned the joys and shortcomings of life in a small. rural community and come to appreciate the camraderie and school spirit of HCS. And, they have come to know the friendliness and genuine affection of Hamilton residents.

"Everyone here is so nice," said Cecilia, who will have two more years of school once she returns to Norway in June. "They make it so easy here."

She said that much of life is not dissimilar between here and Norway. The music is the same, as are the fashions and even the television shows.

But, for Cecilia and Mara, there is one big difference, but is something students here also lament: the shopping. Both girls laugh and say they miss the easy access to shopping malls. Both Lillehammer and Irapuato are much larger cities than Hamilton, supporting a number of malls.

Day-to-day life at HCS is different from that of a student in Mexico or Norway.

Mara said students at home don't have lockers in which to store books and other things. Neither do they change classes. She said that instead of playing a different sport during of the three different seasons seasons as HCS students do, she plays soccer all year 'round.

Sports are different for Cecilia back home. She plays European handball (the team sport played in the Olympics) but not interscholastically like the sports between HCS and other schools. Instead, Ceceilia said she plays after school on a club team.

Again, the two girls agree that they enjoy the difference in the athletic culture.

"It's so much fun to to go to a game and support your team," she said. "I love the school spirit." She added that she had never been to a basketball or hockey game before enrolling at HCS.

Of course, being overseas for an entire school year also means friends and family and even familiar routines and rituals.

Mara and Ceciila agreed that the recent Christmas and New Year holidays are different here than in their homelands. Cecilia joked how quiet New Years is here compared to in Norway, where everyone celebrates with fireworks, lots of fireworks.

Mara said she had to explain a very Mexican-specific celebration, El Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead. Some of her HCS classmates thought it was similar to Halloween, but Mara explained it is a time to honor and remeber friends and families who have died.

Likewise, Cecilia spoke fondly of Noway's independence day celebrfation known as Syttende Mai or Seventeenth of May. It was on May 17, 1814 that Norway broke away from 400 years of Dutch control. (Norway remained part of a kingdom with Sweden until 1905.) She said the day is marked by parades of children in traditional dress and everyone carries flags and sings.

"And, everyone eats as much ice cream as they can," she said.

It was these celebrations, the traditions, their friends and families and even their school routines that came to mind when Mara and Ceciia considered what they have learned so far here in Hamilton. They agreed they learned as much about themselves as they have about the U.S.

"I appreciate what I have more now," said Cecilia. "This has helped me the importance of all the traditional stuff I have at home."

And Mara said, "I have discovered a lot about myself. I am more independent than I ever thought."

While in Hamilton, Mara has been living with Marilyn Rugg. Cecilia is living with Melissa Kagle.

By   Thu, Feb 04, 2010

Frank Farnsworth, who graduated from Colgate in 1939 and returned a few years later to join the faculty of the Economics Department, is being remembered as a helpful colleague and a man interested in entrepreneurship. He died Saturday at his son's home in Brandon, VT. He was 90.

Dr. Farnsworth earned his degrees from Colgate University (AB) and Harvard University (AM, PhD).

A spokesman for the Miller & Ketchum Funeral Home in Brandon said Dr. Farnsworth requested his body be donated to medical science. He also said the family will be holding a memorial service, but no date or location has been set.

During part of his career at Colgate, Dr. Farnsworth also owned and operated the Poolville Country Store as a small, general store. He used the store to teach students many of the practical applications of things they learned in their classes. Dr. Farnsworth was also interested and involved in local economic development.

Dr. Farnsworth was also a Fulbright Professor at the Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration; and during World War II, he instructed naval units at Colgate in both navigation and physics.

Oswald Honkalehto was a colleague of Dr. Farnsworth's in the Economics Department for many years. He recalls Dr. Farnsworth, was taught at Colgate from 1941 to 1987 -- as a helpful mentor and someone who often welcomed colleagues and students into his home for group meals and discussions.

"He was a very helpful collgeaue," said Honkalehto, who joined the Colgate faculty in 1962 after receiving his PhD from MIT. "I was new when he was a senior member of the staff, and he played a mentoring role for me."

Honkalehto added, "One of the things I remember is how he use to invite students to the house on a regular basis for informal chats. He and his wife would put together a meal -- and collageaues were invited too -- and sit around and chat."

Honkalehto said Dr. Farnsworth is the latest of a generation of Colgate economists to pass. Both Lester Blum and Robert Freedman died in recent years. 

Lester Blum died Nov. 8, 2007. Professor of economics emeritus, he arrived at Colgate in 1947. Dr. Blum taught economics until his retirement in 1984.

Robert Freedman died Sept. 3, 2007. He joined the Colgate faculty in 1950 and taught economics until his retirement in 1987.

Dr. Farnsworth is survived by his children, Frank (CU’74) of Brandon, Vermont, Ruth Eldridge of Clay Springs, Arizona, and John of Bonita Springs, Florida; his stepchildren, John Martire (CU’78) and Amy Martire both of the Greater Boston Area, Massachusetts, and Beth Cutter of Ithaca, New York; and nine grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his first wife, Ruth Coburn, his second wife, Elizabeth “Libby” Martire, and daughter, Nancy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ruth Coburn Farnsworth Scholarship Fund through the Stewardship Office at Colgate.

By   Thu, Feb 04, 2010

Colgate's Music Department begins its Spring Concert Series with a performance by Gleb Ivanov, on Sunday, Feb. 14 at 3:30 p.m. in Memorial Chapel.  He will be performing works by Schubert, Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev. This concert is free and the public is most welcome.

Born in Moscow, Ivanov comes from a family of musicians, and he began to accompany his father’s vocal recitals at the age of 8.  He has also played the clarinet and the accordion, and holds a diploma in clarinet from Lyardov High School.  He graduated from the Moscow Conservatory and the Manhattan School of Music.

For more information, or a complete 2009/2010 concert calendar, call the Music Department at 228-7642. 

By   Mon, Feb 01, 2010

13.5 percent

That's magic number in the Hamilton Central School District; that's how much departments are going to have to cut as they build their budgets for the 2010/2011 school year. Cuts of that magnitude are necessary because that is how much the district's state aid is being cut by Gov. David Paterson.

"Because of this," said HCS Superintendent Dr. Diana Bowers of school district residents, "We need their support. We need their opinions. We need their ideas. We need to work as a team.

"We look to the community to partner with us in this very difficult time."

Bowers didn't say it, but she very well could have added something along the lines of, "And, even more so next year."

In several budget discussions last week, Bowers' message was clear: things don't look good for the budget process and they will get worse next year. Talking to the public in two budget coffees and to the PTO, Bowers didn't sugar-coat the issue: there must be cuts, but added that HCS will preserve the integrity of the curriculum.

That's HCS' approach as it begins to formulate its 2010/2011 spending plan. For HCS, 13.5 percent translates to $538.302.

Bowers said some spending reductions have already taken place or are being considered including

+ two teachers are retiring at the end of the academic year and won't be replaced;

+ two teachers included in the present budget have left the district and won't be replaced;

+ there will be no lacrosse program beginning this spring;

+ junior varsity sports could be dropped;

+ HCS continues to collaborate with Madison, Morrisville-Eaton and Stockbridge Valley school districts to share services in ways to reduce costs;

+ starting Monday, there is no late bus service for students staying after classes (This was driven in part by the declining number of students using the service.);

+ finding out-of-district placements for special needs students that maintain high quality instruction but cost less.

Bowers said this is just the beginning of the budget proicess; nothing will be set in stone until the board approves the budget in April.

One of the moves made by HCS and the other schools in the Madison-Oneida BOCES previously was to create a consortium to provide insurance coverage for faculty and staff. Bowers said this had provided "huge savings" for HCS and the other consortium members; there is only a 4 percent increase in premiums this year.

The coffees and the meeting with the PTO was the warm-up for the serious budget season the faces the school district.

School Business Official Matt Crumb explained at a meeting last week that the process of creating the district spending plan is not an easy task. It took 20 drafts to create the current budget that went to district voters last May.

The schedule for this year's budget process includes:

+ Feb. 23, public meeting to discuss the arts program;

+ March 8, all-day budget workshop;

+ April 7, preliminary budget hearing;

+ May 12, public hearing on the budget;

+ May 18, vote on budget.

Last week, while Bowers hosted one of the budget coffees, WRVO-FM was broadcasting The Capital Press Room, a news program about state government. On that show the governor accused schools of holding hostage millions of dollars in their reserve funds. He said schools should use that money to offset state aid cuts.

However, the state has not raided its own reserve fund to help close the deficit.

By   Sun, Jan 31, 2010

At least three -- and most likely more -- fire companies responded to a house fire at 757 Albro Road near Poolville Saturday about 5 p.m. Temperatures at the time of the blaze were about zero.

Crews from Hamilton, Hubbardsville and North Brookfield responded.

There are no more details available at this time.

By   Sun, Jan 31, 2010

When asked to help, Colgate and the greater Hamilton area simply said, "How?" and "How much?"

Saturday night's Hope for Haiti Concert on the stage of the Colgate Chapel yielded what organizers believe will exceed $5,000. All of this goes to three releif organizations working in the country: Doctors Without Borders, Partners in Health and the American Red Cross.

Mark Shiner, Colgate's Catholic chaplain, was one of the hands on the tiller of this event, which came together in a scant 18 days after the 7.0 earthquake rocked Haiti and killed some 200,000 people. When asked what he thoguht about Saturday's concert, he said:

"I think that if you give people an opportunity to be generous, they respond in amazing ways.  Our overall budget was $0 and because of individual and departmental donations we are able to send 100% of the money we raised to our chosen organizations. 

"The concert held together beautifully and the performances were all excellent.  I was completely knocked out by some of the things we got to hear.  Joanne Shenandoah was a real treat. Attendance was very strong with a consistent flow of people in and out throughout most of the night. 

"Every time I started getting tired I thought of all the doctors and aid workers in Haiti working around the clock, realized how good we all had it, and pressed on.

"The whole thing was really a lot of fun from start to finish.  I met some truly inspiring people and saw new and wonderful sides of people I thought I already knew."

And, when asked who he wanted to thank, Shiner said:

"I have so many people I'd like to thank that it's hard to know where to begin. 

"All the musicians and performers-- a truly HUGE, amazing and diverse group of people.

"The core team of students, community members, and Colgate staff who really made this possible.

"The leaders of the religious communities who got together and baked and sold an enormous quantity of delicious treats.

"SA Sound, the generous and supremely helpful folks who were there last night even longer than I was!

"The (Colgate) custodial department for their donation of staff time. Campus Safety, ditto. Media Services, ditto. The print shop for covering the costs of promotional materials.

"Hamilton Central School, particularly Vicki Migonis and the kids who helped raise funds through sell flags they'd made. 

"SAAC, the benefit party hosts on Friday night,  and all the groups that pitched in with their own complementary fundraising efforts.

"The Post Standard, Mid-York, and every other media outlet that covered the event and for all the people and our media folks at Colgate for getting the word out.

"For the spontaneous acts of generosity by so many people who gave FAR beyond the ticket price and made sizable, often anonymous donations to the cause."

By   Sun, Jan 31, 2010

Three hours into the Hope for Haiti Concert at the Colgate Chapel Saturday night, the temperature outside dropped to five below zero.

But, a long and impressive list of performers -- from local children just learning to play the violin or piano to professional fixtures on the local live muscic scene -- heated up the stage of the chapel. The songs and styles were varied but the sentiment was the same: they sang and played so the survicors of one of the worst natural disasters in recorded history could begin to reassemble their homes, their cities and their lives.

Mark Shiner, Colgate's Catholic chaplain and a musician himself, was one of the concert organizers. We was a one-man hive of activity as the benefit launched at 6 p.m.

Violin students from Hamilton and Oneida were the eclectic night's opening act followed by Colgate favorites Earthman Embassy and then local fave Tommy Hoe, without his Barn Cats. They were followed by two young sisters at the piano Isabella Crovella and Sarah Crovell. And then came solo singer Diandra Rivera.

The balance of the night's schedule (posted on a long piece of paper outside the chapel Saturday at right) included:

Naledi Semela

CRRABS

Kathleen Armenti

Zlatko Gradzl

Joanne Shenandoah

The McDowell Brothers

Lauren Mettler/McDowell Bros.

The Worship Band

Sojourners Gospel Choir

Cris Shenkel/Sarah Wider

 Fuse

Hamilton Dance

Ed Vollmer

Jango Radley

The Colgate 13

Pamme Swan

Colgate Resolutions

Shangri-La

Emily Powrie

Jeff Taylor

Scott Douglas Reu

Experimental Theater

The Swinging Gates

 Javi Diaz/Mark Shiner

Aquapod

 The Colgate Dischords

Eliza Gomez

Caitlin Grossjung

The Andrew Wylie Project Experience Band

Velle Phyre

Liz Barnett

Haiti Today: Eighteen days after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake devastated the capital, Port-au-Prince, and left an estimated 200,000 people dead throughout the country, here's where things stand:

• Toussaint Louverture International Airport is accepting more than 160 rlief flights a day.
• There continues to be shortages of food, clean water, adequate shelter and latrines.
• Health officials are trying to stave off outbreaks of malaria, cholera and other sanitation related diseases.
• Gasoline has topped $12 a gallon.

By   Sat, Jan 30, 2010

Q. Is it possible to live forever? A. Maybe.

On Thursday evening, Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m., Hamilton Theater presents the premiere of To Age or Not To Age, the ground breaking film that argues that science's ability to halt virtually all degenerative infirmities related to aging is here now, and that there is no reason why life expectancy shouldn't exponentially lengthen, beginning immediately.

After the screening, filmmaker Robert Kane Pappas will lead a panel discussion featuring three renowned experts in the field of molecular biology and aging: Dr. Leaonard Guarante from M.I.T., Aubrey de Gray from The Methuselah Foundation and Dr. Robert Butler, Pulitzer Prize winning author of Why Survive? and founding director of the National Institute on Aging.

The discussion will take place in New York's Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theater. Audience members in Hamilton Theater will be able to participate by Twitter.

The average life span in 1900 was 42. By 2000, it was over 80. Scientific advances suggest not only that the life span will continue to expand, but it can happen now. The film pries open the complex politics, ethics and procedures of the scientific/medical establishments.

Tickets are $7.50 and may be purchased in advance at the theater or by phone at 824-8210. Seating may be limited.

By   Sat, Jan 30, 2010

Colgate's Upstate Institute is accepting applications from organizations interested in hosting an Upstate Institute Summer Field School Fellow during the summer of 2010. The Field School is a partnership between the Upstate Institute and nonprofit, government and community organizations.  Student Fellows undertake projects that will have a positive social, economic, cultural or environmental impact on the Upstate region and will allow organizations to increase their capacity.

Students complete projects for the organization by working full-time for 8-10 weeks during the summer.  In past years, students have conducted surveys, gathered data, developed training programs, worked with clients, participated in program development and written grants. Descriptions of projects done in past years are available on the Upstate Institute website, under the Field School section.

The Upstate Institute Summer Field School is a reflection of the mission of the Upstate Institute: to create linkages between Colgate University and the regional community to engage students, faculty, staff and residents in research and a reciprocal transfer of knowledge that will enhance the economic, social and cultural capacity of the area and sustain the environment.

Community, nonprofit and government organizations interested in hosting a Field School Fellow should complete a Field School Application and submit to the Upstate Institute by March 1, 2010. Applications are available on the Upstate Institute website. 

Contact Julie Dudrick at jdudrick@colgate.edu for further details.

By   Sat, Jan 30, 2010

by Barb Coger, Director of the Hamilton Public Library

Calling all teddy bear lovers! Visit “Bear-a-dise” on Thursday, Feb. 4 between 4:30 and 8 pm in Hamilton Public Library’s Community Room. There will be teddy bear music and treats for all, Beanie Baby bears for sale, and 25 cent raffle tickets for a china collector plate from the Lovable Teddies Plate Collection.

The quantity of bears is limited so come early. These plush bears have been generously donated by Doris Hill as a fundraiser for the library. Proceeds from the sale of the bears will be used to purchase children’s picture books for the library collection.

On Friday, Feb. 5 at 10:30 a.m., all are invited to attend a reception for artists whose work is currently featured in “Exceptional Art by Exceptional Artists”, the library’s newest exhibit. Among the exhibitors are local Heritage Farm artists. This exhibit will be available for viewing during regular library hours until mid March.

If you are looking for free help with your income taxes and qualify for either the VITA or RSVP tax assistance program, call the library, 824-3060, for more information.

The library is usually open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m, and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Call the library for assistance during these hours.

The bookdrop at the Broad Street entrance is always open for your convenience.

By   Sat, Jan 30, 2010

The Colgate Bookstore will host a children’s program to celebrate Black History Month on Sat., February 6 at 2 p.m.  Student volunteers from Colgate’s Black Student Union (BSU) will lead a multi-cultural celebration of friendship and unity with stories and crafts that celebrate Black history and heritage.  This program is free, and all children are welcome, though it is mainly geared towards ages 3-7. 
 
Black History Month has been celebrated annually since 1976 as a remembrance of important people, events, and achievements in African-American history.  The bookstore’s program for children will feature a variety of stories, including:
 
Fishing Day by Andrea Davis Pinkney, a poignant story about race relations in the Jim Crow-era South, as two children cross the boundaries of race, class, and gender to hold on to the promise of friendship and understanding.   
 
Abiyoyo by Pete Seeger, based on a South African lullaby and folk song.  A magician and his ukelele-playing son are banished because of the father’s habit of making things disappear.  But when the giant Abiyoyo appears, everyone is frightened except the father and son who come up with a plan to save the town. 
 
Anancy and Mr. Dry-Bone by Fiona French is an original story, based on characters from Jamaican and African folk tales.  Rich Mr. Dry-Bone lives in a big house on top of a hill. Poor Anancy lives in a small house at the foot of the hill. They both want to marry Miss Louise, but she will only marry the man who can make her laugh.

For more information about bookstore children’s programs, please call 228-7480 or visit www.colgatebookstore.com and click on the Children’s Program link on the Events page. 

By   Sat, Jan 30, 2010

HCS students raised more than $1,500 for Haitian relief efforts recently.

Third grade students colored and sold Haitian flags, and raised $1,150. The high school' Almeda organization donated an addition $350 from the proceeds of its recent winter dance. The organization also donated $350 to the Hamilton Food Cupboard.

Rob Poznar is a third grade teacher and said this is just the latest charitable effort undertaken by elementary school students. He said tudents have, in the past, also raised money to preserve rainforest lands and have sponsored a student through Save The Children,

Liz Pils is president of Almeda and said, "It's such a terrible thing that happened, and any way we can help we are happy to do."

Photo: Third graders who were part of the funraising effort included (from left) Sam Williams, Amethyst Candir, Jessica Nicholas, Derek Philhower, Trevor Bollinger, Gretchen Clauss and Sophie Shiner.

By   Fri, Jan 29, 2010

Community Bikes is gearing up for a major bike giveaway this spring.  Now, the not for profit organization is in need of volunteers to help prepare the bikes, and work space to service, clean and store bikes.

"We hope to place up to 500 bikes this April with families in Madison County who can't afford them," said Coordinator Chuck Fox.  "I'm delighted to report that we have received nearly that many donated bikes to date.  Now, we need volunteers interested in helping to get them ready, and a heated space where volunteers can work."

Fox said that space generously donated previously for use by the bike project is no longer available. 

Individuals who have experience in basic servicing of bicycles, as well as those who would like to learn, are needed to thoroughly inspect each bike and make repairs as necessary.  Groups of 10 or more are needed to help clean and polish bikes.

"This is a great way for any organization interested in community service to make an important contribution," said Fox.  "It's easy.  Just call to schedule a 2 hour time period that is convenient for your group.  Individuals interested in helping to service bikes can simply let us know when they're available, and we'll work out a schedule that fits."

For information, to volunteer or to donate space, please call 824-8210.

--

In the photo: Members of the Colgate football team volunteered to clean bikes last summer.  Community Bikes seeks volunteers to help clean and service bikes, as well as work space.

By   Wed, Jan 27, 2010

FES Installations, Inc. of Madison is hosting a job fair at the Colgate Inn on
Feb 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The company expects to hire between 20 and 25 people because of expansion of their business. FES specializes in the design and installation of telecommunications platforms.

FES Installations, Inc. operated for 25 years as Falls Earth Station, Inc. before the sale of the cable television programming side of the business recently, according to a statement from the company. Today the company specializes in cabling, data networking, surveillance and access control systems.

Dianne Head said FES Installations is in need of qualified technicians and cable installers. She said the firm's recent appointment as an approved service provider for Honeywell requires the company to expand and hire cable installers, electronic technicians, account managers, and a warehouse/Inventory manager.

Head said applicants will be provided insight into the telecommunications industry, especially security solutions. Interviews will be conducted at the job fair.

By   Mon, Jan 25, 2010

The Village of Hamilton will feel a bit warmer for one weekend this winter, during what is being billed “Heat Up Hamilton,” a winter duathlon to be held Sunday, Feb. 21.

The unique event will feature a 6 kilometer cross country ski on the Seven Oaks Golf Course, followed by a 5 kilometer run through the Village of Hamilton. The idea is to get people out, doing something fun and active, while taking advantage of the winter weather, said event organizer Charlie Melichar.

Participants at all skill levels are encouraged to come out for the duathlon, either as individuals or as relay teams, to participate and also experience what Hamilton has to offer in terms of restaurants, shops, and lodging for those who want to make a weekend of it. A schedule of all events is available on the event website at www.heatuphamilton.com

Melichar and other event organizers believe that Hamilton has everything necessary to make for a great event, and it all begins with the beautiful natural surroundings. Hamilton’s location in the Chenango Valley provides views, and some climbs on the course, that will make this duathlon a memorable event for all. Why the duathlon format? It’s something different and will provide those who want to challenge themselves the opportunity to participate in both legs of the event and give individuals the chance to pair up with a friend to take on the course.

Plans continue to develop, and all information relative to the event, including duathlon details and registration, are being posted to www.heatuphamilton.com

By   Thu, Jan 21, 2010

The Partnership for Community Development will hold an open house from noon until 8 p.m. at the Hamilton Public Library on Feb. 3 to allow its consulting firm to gather citizen comments about the five-way intersection in the center of the business district.

"This is the first phase of the project and essentially, the real heart of the study," said PCD Managing Director, Roger Bauman. "It's all about working together as a community, so we need to hear from the community."

Lisa Nagle, of Elan Planning & Design, Inc,, the Saratoga Springs firm hired to conduct the study said, "The open house is our first opportunity to gather ideas from the public that will help shape the intersection improvements. As design professionals, we certainly have the capability to consider a wide variety of enhancements. If they are not addressing the concerns of the community, then we have missed the mark. By starting with this open house, we can ensure we are giving the people of Hamilton what they want and need."

The PCD approached the Village Board of Trustees requesting it be allowed to form a group to study the intersection in May of last year. In his proposal to the board, Bauman said the five-way intersection formed by Utica, Lebanon, Broad, Payne and Madison streets has what he called "three major deficiencies". According to Bauman, these are:

1.         Sense of Safety
Confusion exists for vehicular traffic.  Drivers making turns within the intersection are confused as where to stop and when to go.  Pedestrians face the same set of problems with the additional concern of crossing a very wide intersection before the traffic resumes in their direction.  Not only do these factors present a real potential safety problem, but contribute to an unsettling discomfort. It has been noted that few serious accidents have recently occurred at this intersection. While this may be the current situation, it would be irresponsible not to address this problem before a real tragedy occurs.

2.         Visual Impact
Often referred to as the "Sea of Asphalt", the Route 12-B intersection is the very core of the village. The wide expanse of asphalt, lack of tree coverage and lack of pedestrian-scale lighting all convey an unfriendly visual image and detracts from many of the charming aspects of the Village and the good work that has been done to date revitalizing many of the buildings and facades.

3.         Pedestrian Friendly
While it is evident that a pedestrian-friendly area must encompass both a sense of safety and a positive visual impact, there remain other factors that must be present. The intersection must be an area of social interaction which strengthens a sense of community, it must emphasize the uniqueness of Hamilton, and it must be lively projecting a feeling of vitality.

Regardless of what the community says and the consultants suggest, the ultimate decision on what -- if anything -- to do about Hamilton's five-way intersection will be made by the state Department of Transportation.

By   Wed, Jan 20, 2010

The Jane Austen Book Club will host a staged reading of the 1798 Elizabeth Inchbald play "Lover's Vows," on Saturday, Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. at the Colgate Bookstore.  The parts will be read by members of the Jane Austen Book Club and the Syracuse Region of the Jane Austen Society of North America, and local volunteers. 

The reading is free and open to the public.  Refreshments will be provided.

Volunteers are still needed to read several of the roles; please call 228-6944 if interested.

Best known for having been featured in the Jane Austen novel Mansfield Park, "Lover's Vows" was adapted by British playwright Elizabeth Inchbald from the German play Das Kind von Liebe ("Child of Love") by August von Kotzebue.  In spite of - or perhaps because of - the play's references to profligate behavior, an illegitimate child, and female forwardness, "Lover's Vows" was an immediate success when it premiered in Covent Garden in 1798.  However, the play had its critics, who objected to what they felt was the drama's moral ambiguity.

In Austen's novel Mansfield Park, members of the Bertram family (around whom the book is centered) are convinced by their friends to choose "Lover's Vows" to perform as a home theatrical.  Their preparations are interrupted, and their plans ultimately foiled, by the return of their disapproving patriarch, Sir Thomas Bertram, to the family home. 

For more information about the Jane Austen Book Club, contact the Colgate Bookstore at 228-7480.

By   Wed, Jan 20, 2010

First the bad news: HCS could lose 13.5 percent of its state aid -- a total of $538,302 -- if the state budget Gov. David Paterson proposed Tuesday is eventually approved by the legislature.

And, there is no good news.

Once again, HCS finds itself trying to find ways to cut its budget in response to fiscal problems in Albany. HCS Superintendent Dr. Diana Bowers discussed the proposed cuts at Tuesday night's Board of Education meeting. The cut was proposed earlier in the day as the governor announced his $134 billion budget for fiscal 2010-2011.

Paterson said the cuts are necessary to help reduce the $7.4 billion deficit facing New York State. The spending plan cuts overall aid to education by 5 percent, reportedly the largest such cut in more than 20 years.

Bowers said she and the board are just beginning budget discussions, but she expects there will 13.5 percent cuts in all of the district's various budgets.

The public will have the opportunity to join the discussion on the state aid cuts and the HCS budget at two coffees this month:

+ Monday at 9:30 a.m. in the school auditorium;

+ Wednesday, Jan. 27, at 7 p.m. in the school cafeteria.

Also on Tuesday, the board held a special meeting to discuss the impact of the proposed cuts on the district's athletic program.

By   Thu, Jan 14, 2010

Local Issues Local Answers: Understanding and Dealing with Current Issues in Madison County is a three-part series offers information and statistics on community need in the areas of the economy, the environment, and education in Madison County.

Environment, February 25: Patients have long been advised to flush unused pharmaceuticals down the toilet; now trace amounts of drugs have began showing up in the nation's water supply. Van Bartlett, Lead Trainer, Environmental Training Center, Morrisville State College will explain how flushing drugs effect water quality. Mary Bartlett, Director, RSVP of Madison County discusses Madison County's ‘Safe Pill Drop-Off' program.

Economy, March 4: Karen Baase, Association Issue Leader of Cornell Cooperative Extension and Becca Jablonski, Program Director of the Madison County Agriculture Economic Development Program will discuss background information about agriculture and the economy in Madison County.

Education, March 11: Madison County has identified education needs in the area of adult literacy and social competencies for disadvantaged youth. Representatives from Madison County Reads Ahead,an adult literacy program, will present results of the Literacy Needs Assessment for Madison County and discuss the expansion of the literacy program into seven county libraries. Community Action Partnership's Youth Mentoring Program Director JoAnne Morak will discuss the community need for mentoring in Madison County.

The programs will meet from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

By   Wed, Jan 13, 2010

The Palace Theater has big plans for the coming months.

The Mad River Theater Works presents its touring production of The Jackie Robinson Story on Sunday, Feb. 21, at 3 p.m. In the summer of 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first African-American to play major league baseball. Mad River Theater Works captures the events that shaped Robinson's character and the obstacles he overcame on his way to changing the face of our nation and our national pastime.

Also, meet Scooch, the Syracuse Chief's mascot for an autograph and photo. Enter your theater ticket in a free drawing to win one of two family-four packs to Cooperstown's National Baseball Hall of Fame.

On Saturday, March 13, the Great Lake's Production of Westside High School Reunion presents an entertaining evening with the zaniest group of alumni you'll ever meet-Principal Francis Baal, at high school since he was a teenager; Porter Thomas, a teacher who still thinks he has what it takes to entertain the women; Carolyn Tease Thomas, a woman who enjoys a cocktail now and now; the "Pink Petticoat Sorority Sisters"; Ruth Jackson a.k.a. Kenya who always shares her political beliefs; Dave Davidson, polished alumni running for office, and Bennett and Jerry, buddies since high school still trying to make a difference.

A buffet dinner is catered by the Colgate Inn and ticket price includes the show, dinner, dessert, coffee, tax and tip. A cash bar is separate. Cocktails start at 6pm.

The vaudeville comedy antics of Wells and Woodhead in Foolz arrive at the Palace Saturday, April 10, 3 p.m. Veterans of film, television and radio, Wells and Woodhead have performed for audiences on six continents. Foolz is a character driven amalgam of theater, music, comedy and juggling. 

Joseph Cashore presents his incredible Cashore Marionettes in Simple Gifts, Saturday, May 1 at 3 p.m. The internationally acclaimed Cashore Marionettes redefine the art of puppetry through the use of beautiful classical music, theatrical illusion and artistic insight.

After each show, audience members can meet all the actors at the free cast party for autographs and photos. Tickets are available by calling The Palace Theater. Group rates are available.

These shows are made possible with support from the The Banfi Vinters , Colgate Bookstore, Colgate Inn, Crowes Drugs, Hamilton Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Park City Builders, Ward Architects, Community Memorial Hospital, Dunn, Bruno and St Leger LLP, Mang Insurance, Mid York Press, Miles B. Marshall Inc, NBT, Porter Studios, Swank, Vantine Imaging, Madison County Courier, Sherburne News, and Wendt University Inn.

The Palace Theater is located at 19 Utica Street.

Seating is general admission. Visit www.palacetheater.org or phone 824.1420 for more information or to order tickets today.

By   Sun, Jan 10, 2010

Colgate's Clifford Art Gallery and the Department of Art and Art History will host the exhibition Sorted Books, Nina Katchadourian, Jan. 18 to Feb. 28. The showing, which is free and open to the public, will feature an artist talk Feb. 4 at 4:30 p.m. in Golden Auditorium of Little Hall, followed immediately by a reception.

Katchadourian’s work exists in a wide variety of media including photography, sculpture, video and sound. Her work has been exhibited domestically and internationally at places such as PS1/MoMA, the Serpentine Gallery, New Langton Arts, Artists Space, SculptureCenter, and the Palais de Tokyo.

In 2006 the Tang Museum organized a 10-year survey of her work with an accompanying monograph entitled All Forms of Attraction. She has also had solo exhibitions at the Turku Art Museum in Turku, Finland of works made in Finland in 2006, and recent video installations at The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in 2008.

Katchadourian  received a BFA from Brown University and MFA from the University of California in San Diego. She lives and works in Brooklyn.

Located on the first floor of Little Hall, the Clifford Art Gallery is free and open to the public from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on  weekends.

By   Sat, Jan 09, 2010

If one of your New Year's resolutions was to get smarter in 2010, Colgate's Lifelong Learning Problem has a variety of course offerings available. They include:

The Study of Religion
Distinct from Theology, "Religious Studies" takes a detached view in understanding the phenomenon of religion. Using lectures from the "Great Courses" series on the "Introduction to Religion" the course will examine some of the ways in which religion has been understood since the Enlightenment by such thinkers as; David Hume, Karl Marx, Max Weber, Sigmund Freud, Karl Jung, among others.
Date & Time: Mondays and Thursdays, January 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28,
from 3 - 4:30 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Dr. John Morris, former dean of the faculty and former
interim president of Colgate University

The Man Behind the Mural: Lee Brown Coye's Masterpiece
Tour the works of Lee Brown Coye's murals with Denise Leone for an in-depth perspective on the art works. Hamilton is home to numerous Coye works and this program will be a guided walking tour to view several of them.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 13 from 4 – 5 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Denise Stillwaggon Leone

'Look-up!’ Biodiversity in the Rainforest Canopy
Dr. Catherine Cardelús, Colgate University, Department of Biology. Dr. Cardelús will discuss her research on the diversity of canopy plants along a 3000m elevation gradient in Costa Rica. Her lecture will explore the potential impacts of global warming and land-use change on the diversity on epiphytes in particular and lowland rainforest diversity in general. For more detail on this published research visit http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/sci;322/5899/258
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 3 from 3:30 – 5:30 pm
Location: Colgate Bookstore, 3rd Floor Community Room
Facilitator: Dr. Catherine Cardelús, Professor of Biology, Colgate
University

Legal and Financial Aspects Involved in Preparing for Long-term Care
This will be one session given by Michael St. Leger’s law firm, touching on the various considerations involved with preparing for illness, legal aspects thereof, and financial concerns. Wills, power of attorney, health directives, and ways to protect assets will be discussed.
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 10 from 5 – 6:30 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Michael St. Leger, Esq., from Dunn, Bruno, St. Leger, Attorneys, Oneida and Hamilton

Two Shakespearean Playhouses
Dr. Susan Cerasano, Edgar W. B. Fairchild Professor of Literature, Colgate University, English Department. This course will explore two playhouses with Shakespearean associations—the Rose (1587-1600) and the Globe (1600-1616)—by looking at evidence gathered from archaeology, performance history, theatre history, biography, and two plays that were probably written for the opening of the new Globe in 1600—Henry V and Julius Caesar.  Topics will include actors and acting companies, current archaeological findings related to the Rose, commercial contexts for the new “capitalist playhouses,” theatre owners and the theatrical account diary kept by the owner of the Rose, and the playwright’s profession.  There will be some lecture, but conversation will be very welcomed. Two books will be required for the course. These books are available at the Colgate Bookstore:

William Shakespeare, Henry V (ed. A. R. Braunmuller, the Pelican Shakespeare): Penguin Classics (1999), ISBN-10: 0140714588, ISBN-13: 978-0140714586

William Shakespeare, Julius Caesar (ed. Paul Werstine and Barbara Mowat,
the Folger Shakespeare): Simon & Schuster (2005), ISBN-10: 0743484932,
ISBN-13: 978-0743484930
Date & Time: Wednesdays, February 17, 24 and March 3, 10, 24 and 31 from 3 - 4:30 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Dr. Susan Cerasano, Edgar W. B. Fairchild Professor of Literature, Colgate University

Local Issues Local Answers: Understanding and Dealing with Current Issues in Madison County
This three part series offers information and statistics on community need in the areas of the economy, the environment, and education in Madison County.

Environment, February 25: Patients have long been advised to flush unused pharmaceuticals down the toilet; now trace amounts of drugs have began showing up in the nation’s water supply.  Van Bartlett, Lead Trainer, Environmental Training Center, Morrisville State College will explain how flushing drugs effect water quality.  Mary Bartlett, Director, RSVP of Madison County discusses Madison County’s ‘Safe Pill Drop-Off’ program.

Economy, March 4: Karen Baase, Association Issue Leader of Cornell Cooperative Extension and Becca Jablonski, Program Director of the Madison County Agriculture Economic Development Program will discuss background information about agriculture and the economy in Madison County.

Education, March 11: Madison County has identified education needs in the area of adult literacy and social competencies for disadvantaged youth. Representatives from Madison County Reads Ahead,an adult literacy program, will present results of the Literacy Needs Assessment for Madison County and discuss the expansion of the literacy program into seven county libraries. Community Action Partnership’s Youth Mentoring Program Director JoAnne Morak will discuss the community need for mentoring in Madison County.
Date & Time: Thursdays, February 25, March 4 and 11 from 4 -5:30 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Mary Bartlett, Director RSVP of Madison County

Inside Autism
Autism is becoming more prevalent and schools and communities are working hard to provide the best adaptations for those children who have that diagnosis. But what is it? Come and find out what is going on inside the mind of a person with autism: the differences in brain development that causes the profile that we see. We will also explore the simple but effective modifications that allow people with autism to learn. Janet O’Flynn is a pediatric occupational therapist presently working for Madison-Oneida BOCES in Oneida and Vernon. She has worked with the autism support team in Vineyard Haven MA and has studied autism as part of her Masters in Early Childhood Special Education in Syracuse.
Date & Time: Saturdays, February 27, March 6 and 13 from 10 - 11:30 am
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Janet O’Flynn

Meditation as Medicine – Advanced Series
This will be an advanced, continuation of last semester’s session*. The daily practice of meditation has been demonstrated to promote healing on many levels.  Enhanced awareness of our bodies, our minds, our breath and our symptoms enables us to find ways to self-heal. Mark J. Sicherman, MD is a physician and psychotherapist and has been studying and teaching meditation for over 30 years. NOTE: Please do not eat directly before the class.
*Please email LLP@colgate.edu if you did not attend the fall session but are interested in learning meditation.
Date & Time: Mondays, March 1, 8, 15, 22, from 5 – 6 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Mark J. Sicherman, MD

Picker Art Gallery Exhibition: Broadcast
Curator Joachim Homann PhD, will join us and present Broadcast. Organized by Independent Curators International and the Baltimore Museum of Contemporary Art, Broadcast explores the ways in which artists since the late 1960s have engaged with, critiqued, and inserted themselves into official channels of broadcast television and radio. By co-opting the sounds, images, and presentation strategies of our culture’s dominant forms of mass media, they reveal the mechanisms and power structures of broadcasting systems, and challenge their authority and influence. For more information visit http://picker.colgate.edu
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 9, from 4 – 5:30 pm
Location: Picker Art Gallery, Colgate University
Facilitator: Dr. Joachim Homann, curator, Picker Art Gallery, Colgate University

The Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima: Some Retrospective Judgments
Dr. Andrew Rotter, Colgate University, Department of History. The atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, was one of the pivotal events in human history.  Debate still rages over key issues.  Why was the bomb used?  Was the bombing--and the bombing of Nagasaki, three days later -- necessary to end the war against Japan?  Did the atomic bomb cross a moral threshhold because of its special destructiveness?  This lecture will consider these and other questions, and invite the audience to help answer them.
Date & Time: Thursday, March 25 from 3:30 – 5:30 pm
Location: Colgate Bookstore, 3rd Floor Community Room
Facilitator: Dr. Andrew Rotter, Professor of History, Colgate University

Sustainability Part 2: Globally, In Practice, In Our Everyday Lives
John Pumilio, Colgate University’s Sustainability Coordinator, will present his second lecture on the global scenario of sustainability. He will focus on sustainability in practice using Colgate as an example, as well as sustainability in our daily lives and how to lead a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. He will include a brief refresher from his fall session; therefore you need not have attended Part 1.
Date & Time: Thursday, April 1, from 3:30 – 5:30 pm
Location: Colgate Bookstore, 3rd Floor
Facilitator: John Pumilio, Sustainability Coordinator, Colgate University

Lyme and Tick Borne Disease, an Emerging National Epidemic
Lyme disease is an emerging national epidemic, with reported cases rising by 78% in 2008. New York State has been near the top of this list for reported cases and we are now experiencing a rapid rise in Central NYS of this difficult illness. Harvey Kliman will discuss the etiology of Lyme disease, the spirochetes that cause it, diagnosis and treatment as well as ways to limit one’s risk of getting it. Debbie Kliman will discuss the manifestation and effects of Lyme on children. Harvey and Debbie founded the non-profit Lyme Disease Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania, Inc. Debbie also has published several articles on children and Lyme as well as treating children in her practice as a clinical psychologist.
Date & Time: Wednesdays, April 7 and 14 from 4 - 6 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitators: Harvey L. Kliman, Ph.D. and Debbie Kliman, Ed.D.

Reading the Hebrew Bible in America
This course focuses on the ways that the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) gets read and used in American culture and politics.  We will look at what the Bible says (or doesn't say) about a range of issues, from the role of women to the death penalty to stem cell research.
Date & Time: Thursdays April 8, 15, 22, 29 from 1 – 3 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Dr. Lesleigh Cushing, Professor of Religion, Colgate University

Golf, the Game of Life
This class will be an approach to improving your golf game or other game skills as well as looking at ways to revisit how your life is unfolding. The book, Golf: The Game of Life, by Arthur Rashap (Colgate class of ’58) is recommended. For discount copies of the book prior to the class contact Arthur Rashap at arthur.rashap@gmail.com
Date & Time: Saturdays in April 10, 17, 24 from 10 – 11:30 am
Location: Wooster Room, 1st Floor Huntington Gym, Colgate University Campus
Facilitator: Arthur Rashap, J.D.

Picker Art Gallery Exhibition: Underhill/Weston Photography Show
Curator Joachim Homann PhD, will present two shows: Landscape Close-up: Photographs from Brett Weston Archive and Faculty Focus: Linn Underhill.  For more information visit http://picker.colgate.edu Landscape Close-up: Photographs from Brett Weston Archive: Brett Weston (1911-1993), son and apprentice of Edward Weston, developed his own photographic vision by combining close-ups with strong black and white contrasts, reducing his subjects to pure form. Although he traveled to and
photographed in locations around the world, Weston, in later years, was most attached to the landscapes of Hawaii. Faculty Focus: Linn Underhill: Linn Underhill (b. 1936), photographer and associate professor of art and art history at Colgate University, has won critical acclaim for her series of portraits and self-portraits that investigate femininity, social roles, and the process of aging.
Date & Time: Tuesday, May 4, from 4 – 5:30 pm
Location: Picker Art Gallery, Colgate University
Facilitator: Dr. Joachim Homann, curator, Picker Art Gallery, Colgate University

Ruling the World 2010: Congressional Republicans vs. Obama Democrats
American leadership rules the world primarily because of its economic competitiveness and political influence. With the decline of our economy and rise of partisan politics, our world leadership is threatened. Control of Congress has a great deal to do with both. What should advocates of American leadership do about the upcoming 2010 elections? Dick Cheshire PhD is a retired college president, professor, and development officer who is a regular teaching leadership classes for Colgate LLP.
Date & Time: Wednesdays, May 12, 19, 26 from 4 - 5:30 pm
Location: Hamilton Public Library
Facilitator: Dick Cheshire, Ph.D.

By   Fri, Jan 08, 2010

Rehearsals are under way for the HCS Masquers' production of Into The Woods, the Stephen Sondheim musical inspired by Bruno Bettelheim's book, The Uses of Enchantment. Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday nights, March 26 and 27.

The musical follows several fairy tale characters including Little Red Ridinghood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel and Cinderella. They are linked by another story about a baker and his wife and desire to start a family.

Into the Woods debuted on Broadway in 1987 and won several Tony awards. There was a revival of it in 2002.

Donna Moren directs. The cast includes:

The Baker – Josh Valencia

The Baker's Wife – Phoebe Rotter

     Understudy – Alisa Babcock

Cinderella – Dana Bowers

     Understudy – Sarah Markowski

Cinderella's Mother – Emily Powrie

Cinderella’s Stepmother – Alisa Babcock

Florinda, Cinderella's stepsister – Kayla Landis

Lucinda, Cinderella's stepsister – Charley Todd

Understudies for Stepsisters and Stepmother – Hannah Parfitt, Corilynn
Coye, Liz Pils

Cinderella’s Father – Mike Jones

Steward – Andrew Powrie

Jack – Blaine Holcomb

Jack's Mother – Keslie Nolen

Understudy – Kayla Landis

Little Red Riding Hood – Samantha Martin

Understudy – Gwynnie Davies

Granny – Gwynnie Davies

Narrator/Mysterious Man –  David Schutt

The Witch – Alana Graber

Understudy - Charley Todd

Rapunzel – Sarah Markowski

Understudy – Emily Powrie

Rapunzel's Prince – Phil Douchinsky

Cinderella's Prince/Wolf – Kinnon Nolan-Finkle

Snow White – Hannah Parfitt

Sleeping Beauty – Corilynn Coye

Understudy for male roles – Brock Penny

Each member of the chorus has been assigned a character from Grimm’s
Fairy Tales.

Christian Andrzejek – Hansel          

Helen Judge – Gretel
     
Tom Bodnar -  Huntsman                            

Ashley Crowell – Rose Red                     

Trista Evans – Little Red Cap                    

Hannah Farrell – The Hare’s Bride                 

Hannah Freeman – Briar Rose

Dillon Head – Rumplestiltskin

Elizabeth Hodge – Black Princess

Eliza Nolen – Black Princess

Hannah Sorosky – Black Princess
        
Nicolle Holcomb – The Queen Bee

Maddy Lemal – Brown – Peasant’s Wise Daughter

Annie Noens – Bremen Town Musician

Elizabeth Williams – Bremen Town Musician

MC Noens – Goose Girl

Tara Rebuck – The Shepardess

Jenna Schell – The White Bride

Danielle Capirci – Spinner

Skye Rose – A Dancing Princess

Kaylin Broadwell – Dancing Princess
musical based on the Grim Brothers' fairy tales.

The Baker – Josh Valencia

The Baker's Wife – Phoebe Rotter

     Understudy – Alisa Babcock

Cinderella – Dana Bowers

     Understudy – Sarah Markowski

Cinderella's Mother – Emily Powrie

Cinderella’s Stepmother – Alisa Babcock

Florinda, Cinderella's stepsister – Kayla Landis

Lucinda, Cinderella's stepsister – Charley Todd

   Understudies for Stepsisters and Stepmother – Hannah Parfitt, Corilynn
Coye and Liz Pils

Cinderella’s Father – Mike Jones

Steward – Andrew Powrie

Jack – Blaine Holcomb

Jack's Mother – Keslie Nolen

  Understudy – Kayla Landis

Little Red Riding Hood – Samantha Martin

  Understudy – Gwynnie Davies

Granny – Gwynnie Davies

Narrator/Mysterious Man –  David Schutt

The Witch – Alana Graber

  Understudy - Charley Todd

Rapunzel – Sarah Markowski

  Understudy – Emily Powrie

Rapunzel's Prince – Phil Douchinsky

Cinderella's Prince/Wolf – Kinnon Nolan-Finkle

Snow White – Hannah Parfitt

Sleeping Beauty – Corilynn Coye

  Understudy for male roles – Brock Penny

The chorus has been assigned a character from Grimm’s Fairy Tales.

Christian Andrzejek – Hansel          

Helen Judge – Gretel
     
Tom Bodnar -  Huntsman                            

Ashley Crowell – Rose Red                     

Trista Evans – Little Red Cap                    

Hannah Farrell – The Hare’s Bride                 

Hannah Freeman – Briar Rose

Dillon Head – Rumplestiltskin

Elizabeth Hodge – Black Princess

Eliza Nolen – Black Princess

Hannah Sorosky – Black Princess

Liz Pils – Sleeping Beauty’s Fairy                        

Nicolle Holcomb – The Queen Bee

Maddy Lemal – Brown – Peasant’s Wise Daughter

Annie Noens – Bremen Town Musician

Elizabeth Williams – Bremen Town Musician

MC Noens – Goose Girl

Tara Rebuck – The Shepardess

Jenna Schell – The White Bride

Danielle Capirci – Spinner

Skye Rose – A Dancing Princess

Kaylin Broadwell – Dancing Princess

By   Thu, Mar 11, 2010

The Colgate football team will hold its third annual Lift For Life event on Friday, March 26 at the Sanford Field House at 7:30 p.m. The event will help raise funds and awareness for Neuroblastoma.

Neuroblastoma is a rare pediatric cancer affecting the sympathetic nervous system. There are an estimated 700 new cases of Neuroblastoma each year, classifying it as a rare disease.

"It is extremely important that we have support campus wide to better help these children in need," said sophomore center Kevin Morgan. "Any and all types of support are greatly appreciated." Support can be made online at www.upliftingathletes.org, and in the Coop prior to the event.

At Lift for Life, the football team will compete in events similar to those seen in the World's Strongest Man Contest. That day, there will be several raffles for different sports memorabilia items. All proceeds will go towards Neuroblastoma research.

The football team would very much appreciate as much physical support and attendance as possible, at the event. Please consider stopping by the event as a way of supporting a great cause and a fight for an eventual cure for Neuroblastoma.

Admission to the fund-raiser is $5 for adults, $3 for college students and free for children under eight.

Source: Colgate Sports Information

By   Wed, Mar 10, 2010

"Shapes For Hamilton: Creating Art Celebrating Community One Shape at a Time" opened in the Clifford Gallery of Colgate's Little Hall this afternoon.

The unique shapes that artist Allan McCollum created and which will be distributed to each person in the Town of Hamilton fill the gallery from floor to ceiling. The black abstract images on white pieces of paper are nestled in row upon row of plastic sleeves, and visitor can use a numbering system to find the shape that has been assigned to them.

McCollum demonstrates the commonness of the unique with this array of some 6,500 shapes that will be distributed to people the first two weekends of April. But for gallery visitors, the temptation is there to puzzle over which shape represents which resident.

The artrist has created a process by which he calcuates he can create some 31 billion unique shapes.

The shapes will be on display at Clifford until they are distributed April 3 and 4 and 10 and 11 at locations and times to be announced.

By   Wed, Mar 10, 2010

By   Mon, Mar 08, 2010

By   Mon, Mar 01, 2010

By   Wed, Feb 24, 2010

The HCS Board of Education got its first look at the first draft of a preliminary 2010/2011 budget Tuesday night, and learned it contains a modest 1.45 percent increase in expenditures over the current spending plan and a 4.97 percent increase in the tax levy. The current budget is $11,276,499.

The board discussed a variety of budget issues Tuesday, and in a public discussion before the meeting gave district residents an opportunity to ask questions and make suggestions about spending on the arts. About 25 people attended the discussion of the arts, many of whom agreed to create an organization to support and raise funds to support HCS music, theater and art programs.

District Superintendent Dr. Diana Bowers and Business Manager Matt Crumb emphasized that the budget process will be unusually difficult the next two years because of state aid cuts forced by Albany's $2 billion deficit. Both stressed the need to find unique strategies to reduce spending without diminishing the education district students receive.

Crumb said that while budget work is still in an early stage, he expects the district will be able to eliminate one bus run. The district makes transportation service available to every child in the district. However, by state law, it need only provide bus service to kindergarten through eighth grade students who live more than two miles from the school and ninth through 12^th graders if they live three miles or more from the school.

However, Crumb and Bowers said the district is not considering cutting back service to those distances. Instead, they are looking at pushing the busing boundaries to one-third or one-half mile.

Bowers told the board and the residents attending the meeting that the only personnel cuts are the positions of a teacher and an administrator who have already left the district and two teachers who will retire at the end of this school year. These positions will not be refilled.

Crumb said the district will benefit from having locked in a price for fuel oil for the coming year. The contract was awarded to Paul Oil.

The next budget discussion will be March 8. During the session that begins at 5 p.m. and continues through the evening, departments will present their budget requests.

The budget issue of considerable concern to the people who attended a special meeting Tuesday was spending on the arts. Many questions were asked about possible faculty cuts (there will be none this budget year, said Bowers) and spending on arts courses compared to the budgets of extra-curricular programs, especially sports.

Donna Moren, a secondary school English teacher, is also the faculty adviser and director for the fall drama and the spring musical, currently in rehearsals. She said the drama program has become self-sufficient and that last fall's presentation, "Harvey", actually made a modest amount of money.

Moren said she has a variety of volunteers who help reduce the costs of staging performances such as this spring's "Into the Woods". She said HCS is able to borrow costumes and set pieces instead of rent them, saving money. Moren said the theater program also does fund-raising of its own.

The topic of "pay to play" was discussed at length Tuesday. Bowers explained that parents of hockey players this year were asked to contribute to the cost of ice time for the sport. In response to a question, she said that while the district, by state law, cannot require students to pay for private musical lessons, the district can accept donations.

During the meeting it was discussed that the number of private lessons might be reduced.

By the end of the meeting there was significant support for forming an organization - like the Sports Boosters -- to help raise funds for and support the arts at HCS.    

Also on Tuesday, the board:

+ learned it will be losing the services of the school resource officer provided by the State Police; the governor had eliminated that program to save money;

+ was told the village's Municipal Utility will be providing a wind turbine that will generate power for the school and also be used as part of a new course on renewable energy and conservation;

+ agreed to approve non-resident tuition rates for 2010/2011 at its April meeting; the current rate is $2,550;

+ announced it was considering five new elective course offerings that include

-          digital art

-          digital media in society

-          science research

-          music keyboard and guitar instruction

-          and renewable energy and conservation and environmental technology.

By   Fri, Mar 05, 2010

Saturday

5:30 p.m.

Utica Auditorium

Section III Class D Finals

Hamilton vs. New York Mills

The HCS girls basketball team is back in the aud this weekend trying to do what they couldn't last year: bring home a sectional title. Hamilton went in to last year's game with Sacket's Harbor with a perfect record and lost. This year, Hamilton is the seventh seed in the tournament, and progressed by beating higher seeds during the tournament.

Now they face New York Mills, a team the lady Emerald Knights lost to twice in the reguar season.

For Coach Jessica Poole, this is her second trip to the finals in as many years as the varsity head coach. Poole talks about NY Mills, what it will take to bring home the sectional title banner this year and how the 2010 final is different than the one played in 2009.

How do you feel about facing New York Mills for the third time this season?
We've played Mills twice in the regular season so we are very familiar with this team. Mills has a deep bench and very versatile players.  Last year we were unfamiliar with Sackets Harbor, so this is an advantage for us knowing Mills' style of play and personnel. 

What are you going to have to do to beat them ... in general?
They play a high pressure zone defense.  We are going to have to penetrate the gaps in their zone and hit our open shots.  We can't afford to get in foul trouble early, so we need to play smart and under control.  We also need to play high pressure defense and try to get steals and convert baskets in transition.  We can't allow them to get open 3-point looks or drive through the lane for high percentage shots.

What do you think has gotten your team this far again?
We've had some very unfortunate luck this season with injuries. One of my starters and the team's second leading scorer, Sara Whyatt had a season-ending shoulder injury.  My point guard Katie Weeks had a knee injury that sidelined her for five games.  I've had six of my original 10 varsity players miss at least one game this season due to injuries.  We are finally all healthy, with the exception of Sara, and we are really starting to click as a team.  It's been a combination of good timing and hard work that these girls have put in. 

How is this different for you this year compared to last year?
I think we had a big target on our back last year.  We had a lot of pressure going in to keep our record perfect. Everyone was looking to upset our undefeated season. This year no one expected us to go this far.  We graduated our two leading scorers last season.  With less pressure I think the girls have been playing more relaxed. I told the team at our first practice before sectionals that we are the dark horses of the tournament. That has been our theme through out the playoffs to keep them motivated. 

By   Thu, Mar 04, 2010

For the third consecutive year, Colgate's men's hockey player Ethan Cox has been named a finalist for the 2010 BNY Mellon Wealth Management Hockey Humanitarian Award. This is the third year in a row Cox has been nominated,

The honor, which will be given out in conjunction with the Frozen Four, April 9 in Detroit annually goes to the college hockey player that initiates various projects for the betterment of a community, a philanthropy, or a cause.

The senior was one of 18 college hockey players nominated for this year's award. Cox also is one of four repeat nominees from the previous year. 

Also nominated are Kirsten Dier (Amherst), Dion Knelson (Alaska), Sam Kuzyk (Adrian), Zachary Miller (Williams), Brigid O'Gorman (Connecticut College) and Brandon Vossberg (Denver).

Cox hosted his annual toy and canned food drives during the 2009 holiday season.  This year, it was a joint drive instead of two separate drives due to the fact the Raiders played their last home game in 2009 on November 21.  The drive raised 1,000 pounds of canned food, 150 toys and $650 in cash in one evening, the best result in three years. The proceeds went to the Hamilton Food Cupboard and the Interfaith Holiday Council.

Cox is holding his "facing off against cancer" drive. Money raised will be sent to the American Cancer Society. 

The final week to get involved with this event will be March 12-14 when Colgate hosts an ECAC Hockey best of three quarterfinal series at Starr Rink.  Fans can donate a set amount per face-off win during that weekend, or give a flat amount.

By   Wed, Mar 03, 2010

Tickets for Colgate's ECAC quarterfinals men's hockey games go on sale today at noon.

Colgate is in a best of three series at Starr Rink beginning March 12. Ticket prices will be $12 for reserved seating and $10 general admission for all ages. All game times are scheduled for 7 p.m.

You can purchase your tickets by either:

1.)  Going to the Colgate Athletic Ticket Office, at Reid Athletic Center, Monday thru Friday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2 p.m.-5 p.m.

2.)  Call the Colgate Ticket Office at (315) 228-7600 during regular business hours.

3.)  Go online to www.gocolgateraiders.com and click on the "tickets" tab.

* For all season ticket holders, who received ECAC playoff tickets for March 5 thru 7, you can use those same tickets for the March 12 through March 14 ECAC Quarterfinal series.

By   Tue, Mar 02, 2010

Four HCS hockey players were chosen to play in the annual Exceptional Seniors game to be held Wed. March 10, at 7 p.m. at the Utica Auditorium.  

These four HCS student-athletes will play for the East which is comprised of the very best Division 2 East seniors. They will play against the West which is comprised of the best seniors from Division 2 West AND Division 1:

+ Brendon Rusch, Goal

+ Jimmy Smith, Defense

+ Joe Santoro, Defense

+Blaine Holcomb, Forward

By   Mon, Mar 01, 2010

UPDATE: The Lady Emerald Knights will meet a familiar foe on Saturday in the Section III Class D Finals: New York Mills.

The  New York Mills girls basketball team beat Sackets Harbor 48-34 Monday to advance to the finals. Time for the game at the Utica Aud has yet to be set.

HCS lost to the Marauders both times they met this year. They lost on Dec. 1 at NY Mills 50-47 and the lost at home 42-26 on Jan. 12.

See story about NY Mills' guard play.

--------------

The HCS girls basketball team steamrolled Rome Catholic (6) Saturday afternoon at Whitsboro High School to advance to the next round of the Section III Class D playoffs.

The win puts the Lady Emerald Knights in the Section III Class D finals next weekend at the Utica Memorial Auditorium. The will play the winners of the New York Mills (1) vs. Sackets Harbor (4) game Monday evening.

Hamilton opened and closed strongly. They bested the Red Wings 16-9 in the first period and outscored Rome 14-2 in the final period.

Three HCS players did all of the scoring:

+ Jordan Peterson had 19;

+ Katie Weeks had 13;

+ and Hillary Hanson had 10.

Rome didn't have a girl in double figures Saturday. Their leading scorer, Kim Quinn, had just nine points.

Hamilton    16   8   4   14  --  42
RCH               9  10   7     2  --  28

By   Sun, Feb 28, 2010

The Colgate men's hockey team clinched the fourth spot in the ECAC post-season playoffs by beating RPI 3-2 Friday. They also beat Union 5-2 Saturday.

The RPI win gives Don Vaughan's team a bye in the first round of the ECAC Tournament and Colgate will host the best two-of-three game quarterfinal series at Starr Rink in two weeks.

The Raiders (15-13-6, 12-8-2 ECAC), who finished in fourth place, end the regular season with their best ECAC finish since the 2005-06 season.

By   Thu, Feb 25, 2010

The Colgate men's hockey team will "Face Off Against Cancer" this weekend as it hosts Rensselaer and Union in its final regular-season home weekend of the year.  The fundraiser will also include the Raiders' first best of three home series to open the ECAC tournament.  All proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.

Fans, alums, staff, and students will have the opportunity to donate either a flat amount of money, or pledge a set amount of money per face-off wins for either the regular-season weekend versus Rensselaer/Union, or the first best of three series Colgate hosts either March 5-7, or March 12-14, or both weekends of play. The Raiders are averaging 33.9 face-off wins per game.

Fans can download a pledge drive form or fill out the form at the rink. Fans not attending the games that wish to make a donation to the cause can send a completed form along with a check made payable to Colgate Hockey, c/o  Michelle Reese, Colgate University, 13 Oak Dr., Hamilton, N.Y. 13346.  Please make you put "face off for cancer" on the memo line.

Co-captain Ethan Cox (Richmond, B.C.) is spearheading this fundraiser.  The senior has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious BNY Mellon Hockey Humanitarian Award, which will be awarded in conjunction with the NCAA Frozen Four, April 9 in Detroit.

"The men's ice hockey team is extremely excited about hosting the face-off against cancer pledge drive again this year," said Cox.  "Cancer is a disease that has no limits and affects everyone involved. To be able to put on events like this speaks wonders to the Colgate hockey fans and the local Hamilton community.  The men's ice hockey team thanks everyone involved for their tremendous support."

Source: Colgate

By   Tue, Feb 23, 2010

The HCS girls basketball team continues play in the Section III Class D playoffs later this week.

The Lady Emerald Knights (12-7) play Rome Catholic Friday at 7 p.m. The game will be played at Whitesboro High School. 

Hamilton and Rome Catholic (12-6) met twice during the regular season. RCH won both.

The Lady Emerald Knights made it into this round of play by beating Oriskany 49-41 last Friday.

Admission is $4.00.

By   Sat, Feb 20, 2010

The HCS volleyball season didn't end Saturday with so much as a bang or a whimper, but with a perplexed sigh and a few tears.

Hamilton entered the Section III Class D playoffs as the top seed and riding high on a solid winning season and a league title. But, on Saturday at Jamesville-Dewitt High School, it wasn't as though a piece of the puzzle was missing. Instead it just could not be found in time.

Hamilton lost 3-0 to second-seeded Living Word Academy (15-3). It was the second time in two seasons the Lady Emerald Knights traveled to J-D for the Section III finals and came home without the blue and yellow banner to hang in the gym.

Hamilton lost 25-20, 25-17 and 25-17.

Check back for more details.

By   Sat, Feb 20, 2010

UPDATE: The HCS girls basketball team now knows its next opponent in Section III play. Rome Catholic slipped past top seeded Copehagen Saturday 46-44. The Red Wings had a huge 20-point fourth quarter to come from behind for the win.

In the early going Friday night, it looked as though the Section III Class D girls basketball playoff game might be almost too close for anyone's comfort. At the end of the first quarter, Oriskany was up 15-8 and had rendered the Lady Emerald Knights press ineffective.

But, Hamilton fought back and clamped down on Oriskany and tied it at 20 with a few seconds left in the first half. But, as the seconds ticked off the clock HCS' Katie Weeks (in photo) nailed what may have been her most important three-pointer of the year to make it 23-20 and it was, truly, a whole new ball game.

Hamilton rode the wave of momentum Week's three-pointer gave them and posted an impressive 49-41 win. Coach Jessica Poole threw in a different defense in the second half and Jordan Peterson caught fire. And, when Weeks got into foul trouble, the slack was picked up by many hands.

Poole moved Peterson out front to run the offense to help keep Weeks from picking up any cheap offensive fouls. Peterson responded by repeatedly driving the lane and either making the layup or getting fouled ... and several times, doing both. She also hit an impressive three-pointer.

The junior forward/guard ended the night with 27 points. Hamilton's other scorers included:

+ Jenna Whyatt with eight;

+  Weeks with seven;

+ Katherine Keever with four;

+ and Hillary Hanson with three.

Poole praised Whyatt for her clutch scoring and Keever and Hanson for playing "hard nosed" defense and grabbing key rebounds.

Hamilton next plays the winner of the game between Rome Catholic and Copenhagen. That game was supposed to have been played Friday but was postponed because of bad weather.

Poole said the Lady Emerald Knights' next game will be either next Friday or Saturday at a neutral site to be announced next week.

By   Fri, Feb 19, 2010

Alex Brink, the HCS hockey team's leading scorer has been named to the Section III, Division II all-star team, as chosen by the coaches. In addition, five other Emerald Knights received honorable mentions.

Brinkwas also nominated to the All State Team and was runner up to Player of the Year.

"This was Alex's rookie year in high school hockey since he didn't play last year," said Coach Murray Decock. "He was the team's leading scorer with 30 goals and 13 assists. That total was second highest in overall in Division II and his 20 goals and 11 assists in just league play was second best in the league behind Player of the Year Clayton Whittemore, a senior out of of New Hartford.

"Alex is an extremely dedicated athlete who works hard both on and off the ice. He has a great deal of natural talent in his hands and one of the hardest wrist shots in Central New York. He is continuing to work on his foot speed because with a faster few initial steps he will really be ready to dominate his high school opponents next year."

Hamilton players receiving honorable mentions were:

+ Brendon Rusch;

+ Brady Carroll;

+ Blaine Holcomb;

+ Jimmy Smith;

+ and Joe Santoro.

Also on the first team were Clayton Whittemore, Spencer Landry and Chris Luker from New Hartford; Rome Free Academy's T.J. Reilley; Clinton's Peter Hameline; and Cazenovia's Joe Nardella and Sean Cannizzaro.

Brink will be honored at the Sectional Final game at the Utica Auditorium along with other first team all stars.

Hamilton finished the year 9-9-2.

By   Wed, Feb 17, 2010

Slightly less than a year ago, Hamilton and Oppenhein-Ephrata met in the Section III Class D volleyball finals at Jamesville-Dewitt High School.

That scene will repeat itself Saturday ... but only for the Lady Emerald Knights. Hamilton beat O-E Tuesday 3-1 at Herkimer County Community College. As a result, Hamiton faces Living Word Academy (2) Saturday at 10 a.m. at J-D.

Living Word advanced to the finals by beating Brookfield 3-0 Tuesday (25-20, 25-16, 25-9).

On Tuesday, Hamilton beat O-E 25-14, 25-21, 23-25 and 25-14.

Senior Tiffany Jones-Maxwell led Hamilton with 20 kills, 2 aces, 1 assist, 1 dig and 1 block. Kaitlyn Askew had 2 aces, 14 assists and 3 digs, Rachel Holcomb had 10 assists and 1 dig. Samantha Martin had 7 kills, 4 aces and 3 digs.

By   Sun, Feb 14, 2010

The Lady Emerald Knights now know what faces them in sectional play: Oriskany, a team they steamrolled just three weeks ago.

Hamilton is the seventh seed in the Section III Class D tournament. Oriskany is seeded second. The two play Friday at Oriskany at 7 p.m. Admission is $3. If HCS wins, they will face the winner of the Copenhagen vs. Rome Catholic game. Copenhagen is ranked 19th in the state.

When Hamilton and Oriskany played on Jan. 23, the Indians did not look as if they were undefeated coming into the game. The Lady Emerald Knights threw up an stifling full court press and Oriskany, playing without its leading scorer, wilted. Hamilton won 57-30.

When the two teams met at Oriskany on Dec. 11, Hamilton lost 33-26.

When the two teams met in sectional play last year, it wass not the most pleasant of affairs. The Oriskany student fans were abusive, and unchecked by school or tournament officials. Their chants toward the HCS players inlcuded, "You are garbage." and others were of a sexual nature.

By   Sun, Feb 14, 2010

It was busy -- and productive -- weekend for Colaget sports.

1. The men's hockey team manhandled Brown 6-2. The win makes the Raider's record against Ivy League schools this year 6-2-1. The win avenges a loss to Ivy leader Yale on Friday and sets the scene for Tuesday's grudge match with Upstgate Ivy rival Cornell. Faceoff vs. Cornell is 7 p.m. Tuesday at Starr Rink. It is also broadcast on Time Warner.

2. The men's basketball team staged some heroics for a one-point win vs. American University. A buzzer beater tied the score in regulation time at 68 each. Then came the first overtime ... and then the second. Colgate defensed a last-seconf shot by American and when the game-ending buzzer blew for the third and final time, 'Gate won 75-74.

3. The women's hockey team made it a weekend sweep of Brown with a 4-3 win in Providence, RI. Colgate's Katie Stewart scored all four of Colgate's win. The squad ends its regular season this weekend against two Upstate rivals. They take on Union on Friday, at 7 p.m. in Starr Rink followed by RPI on Saturday at 4 p.m.

By   Thu, Feb 11, 2010

The HCS volleyball team continued its winning ways Thursday with a solid 3-0 (25-18, 27-25, 25-13) win at home over ninth-seeded McGraw in the second round of Section III Class D tournament play. Hamilton is now 17-3 on the year.

For Hamilton:

+ Kaitly Askew: 1 kill, 5 aces, 6 assists:

+ Tiffany Jones-Maxwell: 19 kills, 3 assistts, 2 digs, 1 block:

+ Rachel Holcomb: 1 ace, 7 assists, 2 digs:

+ and Samantha Martin: 7 kills, 1 assist, 2 digs.

Next up for Hamilton is fourth-seed Oppenheim-Ephrata on Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Herkimer County Community College.

Directions o HCCC

In other sectional action, Brookfield (6) upset Owen D. Young (3) 3-0. Living Word Academy (2) beat DeRuyter (7) 3-1.

By   Thu, Feb 11, 2010

2010 Hockey Senior Night

  Nick Heintz

  Brendon Rusch

  Blaine Holcomb

  Derrick Rogers

  Jim Smith

  Joe Santoro

2010 Girls Basketball Senior Night

  Jenna Whyatt

  Hillary Hanson

2010 Volleyball Senior Night

 Tiffany Jones-Mawell

  Kaitlyn Askew

  Samantha Martin

  Alison Hansen

  Tasha Kane

2010 Boys Basketball Senior Night

  Dan Meeks

  Mike Jones

  Ken Quackenbush

  Keith Upton

By   Thu, Feb 11, 2010

Six memebrs of the HCS hockey team laced up their skates for the last time as Emerald Knights Thursday, and they went out in style. HCS beat Rome Free Academy 3-1 at Colgate's Starr Rink to end the season 9-9-2.

Senior Blaine Holcomb scored what would be the winning goal in the second period off an assist by Alex Brink.

Brink scored Hamilton's first goal on an assist from senior Nick Heintz in the first period.

Senior Derrick Rogers put an exclamation point on the win, on senior night and his HCS hockey career with an empty net goal with seven seconds left.

HCS Coach Murray Decock praised the work of all the seniors, but none more so than goalie Brendon Rusch, who had 46 saves.

"He had a career game for us," said Decock. "It was a big win and Brendon had a great game."

Among those 46 saves was a penalty shot with one second left in the second period. He stopped the RFA shot and HCS went to the locker room up 2-1 and with a lot of momentum.

Decock said RFA came out firing in the final period. Rusch stopped 21 shots in that period. Decock said Rome pulled their goalie for the last minute and a half.

The coach also praised defenseman Jim Smith, a senior, for his effort Thursday. He was working extra hard to make up for the loss of linemate senior Joe Santoro, who was sitting out the game as the result of a major penalty in Tuesday's win over Oswego.

The win on senior night was a fitting conclusion for the Knights. A year ago they ended the season with just two wins, and was a team rattled by internal dissent.

This year, the Knights had a vastly improved record and narrowly missed the playoffs. HCS also posted big wins over Clinton and Whitsboro in addition to topping RFA on the last night of the season.

Before their game, the Knights honored their seniors and their parents:

+ Nick Heintz

+ Brendon Rusch

+ Baline Holcomb

+ Derrick Rogers

+ Jim Smith

+ and Joe Santoro.

Family members joined the seniors on the ice before faceoff (below).

By   Wed, Feb 10, 2010

Katie Weeks (in photo at left) put on a demonstration Tuesday night, and it should have been titled, "Shooting Threes: A How To."

The guard scored 25 points in the first half of the HCS girls basketball team's 60-34 win over Westmoreland on Senior Night. Twenty-one of those came on three-point shots that would have made a sniper jealous. Weeks unloaded with ease in the first hald and with each new three, a crowd of her classmates got louder and and louder.

At one point she was five for five behind the arc and ended up five for 12.

"Katie really knows the game," said Coach Jessica Poole. "Her father (JV Coach Gary Weeks) works with Katie and (her younger sister) Lauren and they watch a lot of basketball together and go to SU games. She has become a very smart player. And, she's a good athlete. I'm very glad she stepped up tonight."

Weeks ended the night with 28 points. She also blocked four shots.

Other HCS scoring:

+ Jordan Peterson had 16;

+ Katherine Keever had 10;

+ Hillary Hanson, Brook Furner and Jenna Whyatt each has two.

Weeks got plenty of help Tuesday night. Hamilton continued to play a suffocating press that forced some opportune first-half turnovers. And, the Lady Emerald Knights were not all that ladylike Tuesday as they were especially aggressive on the boards and wrestling the ball away from Westmoreland. HCS held Westmoreland to just 15 points in the first half.

Peterson, Emily Truett, Keever, Whyatt and Furner forced Westmoreland out of its rhythm, blocked shots, made steals and often went two out of three falls on the floor to create jump balls.

"These girls all do the little things that pay off," said Poole. "I couldn't have asked for a better group of kids."

The win makes HCS 11-7 overall and 7-3 in the league. There was a possibility -- depending on the outcome of the Morrisville-Eaton games Tuesday -- that HCS could have wound up in a three-way tie for the league title with Rome Catholic and Oriskany.

Sunday is the seeding meeting for the Section III post-season playoffs.

By   Wed, Feb 10, 2010

UPDATE: Despite a monster win over Oswego Tuesday, the HCS hockey team was eliminated from post-season play because of a win that night by Clinton. The Warriors secured a sectional berth by beating Utica Procter 6-0 at home.

Alex Brink had four goals and Kinnon Nolan-Finkel scored twice to lead Hamilton to a massive 8-2 win over Oswego Tuesday night at Starr Rink.

Blaine Holcomb and Rick Runyon added Hamilton's other two goals.

Brink also had an assist Tuesday. Holcomb had two assistst, Nolan-Finkel had an assist and Joe Santoro helped on three. Jim Smith  Brenden Thomas andCharlie Campbell-Decock each had an assist.

HCS goalie Brendon Rusch had 16 saves.

Hamilton finalizes the regular season Thursday at home vs. Rome Free Academy.

By   Tue, Feb 09, 2010

Former HCS boys basketball star Derrick Cenicola is continuing to make headlines now that he is on the college hardwood.

For the fourth time this season, the 2009 HCS graduate and Southern Vermont College guard was named rookie of the week by the New England Collegiate Conference.

Cenicola averaged 16.0 points per game, 9.0 rebounds per game, 1.0 assist per game and 3.0 steals per game last week. He shot 27 percent (5-for-18) from the floor, 22 percent (2-for-9) from behind the arc and 100 percent (4-for-4) from the charity stripe.

Southern Vermont College, which is located in Bennington, VT, is now 2-7 in league play and 3-15 overall. The Mountaineers have five regular season games left in the season.

By   Mon, Feb 08, 2010

The HCS volleyball team is etending its successful season this week being named the top seed for the Class D Section III playoffs.

The rest of the tournament seeding includes:

2. Living Word Academy

3. Owen D. Young

4. Oppenhein-Ephrata

5. New York Mills

6. Brookfield

7. DeRuyter

8. Town of Webb

9. McGraw

Hamilton has a bye in Tuesday's first round and will play the winner of the McGraw (9) vs. Town of Webb (8) match. That game will be at Hamilton on Thursday at 6 p.m.

Other first round games include:

+ Oppenhein-Ephrata vs. New York Mills (the winner would be Hamilton's next opponent if the Lady Emerald Knights win in its second round match);

+ Owen D. Young vs. Brookfield

+ Living Word Academy vs. DeRuyter.

By   Mon, Feb 08, 2010

Tiffany Jones-Maxwell, a senior on the HCS volleyball, reached a milestone in here playing career recently.

Last Thursday, in Hamilton's 3-0 win over DeRuyter, Jones-Maxwell delivered her 1,000th career kill. Currently she has 1,024 kills.

Jones-Maxwell was also a standout for the HCS girls soccer team.

The DeRuyter match was the last in the regular season. The team finished 16-3 this year and is preparing for the post-season.

By   Sat, Feb 06, 2010

The HCS post-season hockey picture does not look as good as it could have after Friday's games.

The Emerald Knights lost 6-1 to Cazenovia in a game played at the Morrisville Iceplex.

The score was 1-1 after the first period but Caz scored four in the second period and one in the third period.

Hamilton's Jimmy Smith (pictured) scored the Knight's only goal. Blaine Holcomband Kinnon Nolan-Finkel assisted. Brady Carroll had 26 saves in 30 minutes in goal; Brendon Rusch had 10 saves in 15 minutes.

Coach Murray Decock said two starters were downed by the stomach bug making the rounds of the team. Several others were sick but still played. Decock too was felled by the flu.

At the same time, Clinton beat Whitesboro 4-3 in overtime. Hamilton and Clinton are chasing the last post-season playoff spot.

The Knights play at home Tuesday vs. Oswego and Thursday against Rome Free Academy. Both games are at Colgate's Starr Rink; Tuesday's faceoff is 6:30 p.m. and Thursday's is 6:15 p.m.

By   Sat, Feb 06, 2010

Junior Jordan Peterson had a double/double before fouling out Friday in the Lady Emerald Knights' basketball game at West Canda Valley. But, Katie Weeks and Brook Furner (shown in picture) stepped up to help Hamilton close the door on a 54-42 win.

Hamilton made an easy go of it in the first period, running up an 11-poiont lead. They moved it to 16 by the half thanks to the Lady Knights trademark full court press. As they have much of the year, the Lady Knights made steals and made points.

While the press gave Hamilton a comfy lead, it also created some fould troubles for Peterson, something not often seen. Playing with three fouls in the third, Peterson had to ease up and West Canada capitalized.

"We had a very strong first half," said Coach Jessica Poole. "But, I never felt like we put the game away until the fourth period."

But, when Peterson had to sit and when she fouled out in the final period, Poole said Katie Weeks took over as the team's offensive spark.

"She stepped up nicely," said Poole about Weeks. "She helped us hold onto our lead."

So did Furner, who came off the bench and scored an important seven points.

Peterson ended the game with 25 points, 10 rebounds and four steals. The rest of Hamilton's offensive punch came from:

+ Weeks with 13;

+ Furner's seven;

+ Jenna Whyatt's six;

Hillary Hanson's two;

+ and Katherine Keever's one.

The win makes Hamilton's record 10-7 overall and 6-3 in league play and sets the Lady Knight's up for their final game of the season on Tuesday. They face Westmoreland and honor their seniors.

The win also helps position the Lady Knghts for the Section III seeding meeting for the post season. That's slated for Sunday, Feb. 14. Poole said she expects first round games to be that Monday or Tuesday.

Hamilton     18     12     12     12  --   54

WCV               7       7      16     12   --  42

By   Fri, Feb 05, 2010

The HCS Emerald Knights boys basketball team found itself smack in front of the steamroller that masquarades as the West Canada Valley Indians Thursday night.

Hamilton ended its season losing to WCV -- the top ranked Class C team in the satte and undefeated for the fourth year in a row -- 87-36.

Hamilton's scoring included: Dan Meeks 6, Michael Jones 1, John Andrzcjek 2, Keith Upton 7, Coley Graham 9, Lucas Rhyde 5 and Tom Hilgenburg 4.

Hamilton             9     3     11  13  - 36
West Canada   31   19    21  16  - 87

In other HCS sorts, the volleyball team be DeRuyter at home Thursday 3-0.

By   Fri, Feb 05, 2010

Hockey player Etahn Cox, familiar to local residents for all of his philathropic work during his time at Colgate, again is a nominee for the 2010 BNY Mellon Hockey Humanitarian Award.

Cox is among 18 college hockey players nominated for the award. The senior from Richmond, British Columbia, Canada was a finalist for the same award the previous two seasons.

The finalists will be announced later this month with the winner being announced in conjunction with the Frozen Four in Detroit on April 9.

Earlier in the year, Cox hosted his annual toy and canned food drives during the holiday season. The drive collected 1,000 pounds of canned food, 150 toys and $650 in cash in one evening.  The proceeds went to the Hamilton Food Cupboard and the Interfaith Holiday Council.

Last year Cox was honored by the Hamilton Business Alliance for his charitable works.

By   Fri, Feb 05, 2010

Rob Cornell, who played golf for HCS while a student there, has been named Golgate's interim golf coach for the spring season. Rob is a 2002 grad of HCS and played soccer and baseball ... not golf (as earlier reported).

Cornell is taking the place of Mac Gifford, who has been the head coach for the previous two seasons, but is taking a leave of absence for the spring.

By   Thu, Feb 04, 2010

The HCS girls basketball team staged a strong fourth quarter to come from behind and beat Morrisville-Eaton 49-47 Wednesday night.

The win makes the Lady Emerald Knights' record 5-3 in league play and 9-7 overall.

Hamilton was up 25-21 at the half, but gave up the lead when the third quarter ended. But, the Lady Emerald Knights rallied for the win.

Scoring for Hamilton were:

+ Jordan Peterson 19,

+ Hillary Hanson 2,

+ Jenna Wyhatt 6,

+ Katie Weeks (in photo) 10, including three three-point baskets,

+ Katherine Keever 8,

+ and Brook Furner 4.

HCS has two games left in the season. the girls play at West Canada Valley friday. The Lady Knights close the regular season Tuesday when they host Westmoreland for Senior Night.

The Hamilton JV breezed past MECS 46-29

Hamilton    12   13    9  15 -- 49
ME                10  11  16  10 -- 47

By   Wed, Feb 03, 2010

You've heard of TV's Battle of the Newtork Superstars?

Well this could have been called the Battle of the Former HCS Girls Basketball Stars.

Tuesday night, the women's basketball teams of Herkimer County Community Colege and Mohawk Valley Community College met in Herkimer. An outstanding player from past HCS girls basketball teams played for each college.

Liz Unger, Hamilton girls basketball's all-time leading scorer who graduated from HCS in 2008, took the court for MVCC. Jessic Brawn, who starred on HCS's girls team that went 21-1 suited up for HCCC.

Unger had 12 points for the Hawks and Brawn had 10 for the Generals.

In the end, Mohawk Valley defeated Herkimer 63-56. Both teams are having outstanding seasons. MVCC is now 17-1 and HCCC is 14-7.

The two teams play again Feb. 18 at MVCC in Utica.

By   Wed, Feb 03, 2010

Playing for the last time in front of their hometown fans, the seniors of the HCS boys basketball team rose to the occasion and lifted the Emerald Knights to an impressive 53-41 win over the Rome Catholic Red Wings Tuesday.

"It was a great effort by all of our seniors," said Coach David Rhyde.

Senior Keith Upton led the way with 24 points.

Senior Ken Quackenbush had nine points and three steals.

Senior Dan Meeks had six points, five assists and three steals.

"Meeksy played outstanding defense for us tonight," said Rhyde. "If the ball went into the post, he was there and on it."

Hamilton's fourth senior is Mike Jones.

The rest of the HCS scoring came from Coley Graham with eight, Tom Hilgenberg with four (and six rebounds) and Lucas Rhyde and Greg Elliott each had one.

The win makes the Knights' overall record 3-14 and 1-8 in league play.

Hamilton wraps up its season Thursday with a long trip north to face West Canada Valley.

Hamilton's JV hammered Rome Catholic 65-40 Tuesday.

Hamilton       17       14        9        13   --  53

R. Catholic    15         9        8          9   --  41

By   Wed, Feb 03, 2010

If you strolled in fashionably late for the HCS vs. Whitesboro hockey game at Starr Rink, you still saw the best part of the game.

It wasn't until the third period that much of the action took place, including Hamilton's come-from-behind goal to tie the score 4-4 with less than two minutes left to play. Theither team scored in the five-minute overtime so both ended up with a point.

The tie keeps the Emerald Knights in fourth place in the league -- two points ahead of Clinton -- with playoff hopes still alive. The Knights have two games left: Friday vs. Cazenovia and next Thursday vs. Rome Free Academy.

Alex Brink scored Hamilton's first goal on an assist from Derrick Rogers. Whitesboro scored and the two teams remainded knotted 1-1 until the wild and wooly third period.

In the third, brink added his second goal of the night, this time assisted by Kinnon Nolan-Finkel. Freshamn Brandon Thomas scored -- assisted by Brink and Charlie Campbell-Decock -- to make it 4-3.

With 1:20 left, Hamilton pulled goalie Brady Carroll. Hamilton won a faceoff in Whitesboro's end and Rogers put it over the goalie's shoulder and into the net to make it 4-4.

Carroll finished the night with 28 saves. HCS put 20 shots on the Whitesboro net.

Coach Murray Decock said Hamilton was playing without senior captain Jimmy Smith, who was sidelined with an illness.

Next Thursday's home game is Senior Night. Seniors on the squad (in photo) include (front row from left) Nick Heinz, Brendon Rusch, Blaine Holcomb (standing from left) Derrick Rogers, Jimmy Smith and Joe Santoro.

By   Wed, Feb 03, 2010

Four members of the Emerald Knights boys basketball team were honored at their last home game of the 2009-2010 season Tuesday. Honored were:

+ Mike Jones

+ Dan Meeks

+ Ken Quackenbush

+ and Keith Upton.

By   Tue, Feb 02, 2010

Jordan Peterson scored a game-high 22 points, including three three-pointers in the HCS girls basketball team's 46-34 loss at home Monday to Little Falls.

Little Falls remains undefeated at 15-0.

The Lady Emerald Knights are now 4-3 in league play and 8-7 overall.

Hamiton's other scoring included: Hillary Hanson 2, Jenna Wyhatt 2 and Katie Weeks 8.

Hamilton      9   8   8 9 — 34
Little Falls 11 16 12 7 — 46

By   Sun, Jan 31, 2010

Hamilton's boys basketball team seemed not to notice they were playing Brookfield one the coldest night of the season.

Maybe that's because their shooting was red hot and they turned up the heat on defense. The Knights had three players in double figures Saturday and parlayed one of their best efforts of the year into a massive 60-36 win over neighboring Brookfield.

HCS Coach Dave Rhyde said his squad's efforts on defense helped make the offense even that much better.

"Our defensive intensity was better. We were much tougher on defense," said Rhyde. "That took Brookfield out of their rhythm."

That seemed to overflow to the opposiye end of the court, especially for senior Keith Upton. He bagged a double/double Saturday. He led all scorers with 18 points and grabbed 10 rebounds.

"Keith played hard tonight," said Rhyde."The rest of the kids fed off of that."

Guard Mike Jones had 10 points, as did the Knight's sixth man Coley Graham (in photo at left). John Anderzejek had eight, Lucas Rhyde had seven, Ken Quackenbush had five, and Greg Elliott scored two.

Hamilton has a pair of games ahead.

Tuesday they are home against Rome Catholic. The team will recognize its four seniors: Quackenbush, Upton, Jones and Dan Meeks.

Thursday the Knights travel to West Canada Valley.

The JV team had an impressive win Saturday, beating Brookfied 43-21.

By   Sat, Jan 30, 2010

The HCS volleyball team honored five seniors and beats Mount Markham 3-1 Friday night at home.

Honored were Kaitlyn Askew, Alison Hensen, Samantha Martin, Tiffany Jones-Maxwell and Tasha Kane.

Hamilton won 22-25, 25-14, 25-17 and 25-18.

Askew had 1 ace, 8 assists, 3igs: Morgan Brooks served 5 aces and added 6 digs: Tiffany Jones-Maxwell had 14 kills, 4 digs and 2 bocks and Brook Mecca 3 kills, 3 aces and 3 digs.

The Lady Emerald Knights are now 14-3, 10-3.

Hamilton's JV won 2-1.

By   Sat, Jan 23, 2010

If you were at the HCS girls basketball game Friday night, you may wish to check your wallet and maybe any gold fillings you had in your teeth. The Lady Emerald Knights stole just about everything else and they might have those as well.

Hamilton's full court press put the clamps on Oriskany forcing numerous turnovers that the Lady Knights converted on the way to huge a 57-30 win. That ended Oriskany's previously undefeated season; they came to Hamilton 9-0 and left 9-1.

"It was just a good game," said Hamilton Coach Jessica Poole with no small amount of understatement. She said she was pleased with her team's work on the press an converting the steals into baskets.

Hamilton built an impressive 19-2 lead in the first quarter and went to the locker room at the half up 27-14. The third period was a replay of the first and the Lady Emerald Knights went on to avenge their loss at Oriskany earlier in the year.

Once again, Hamilton had distributed scoring with three girls in double figures.

Katie Weeks was four of eight from beyond the three-point line and ended the night with 17 points.

Sara Whyatt had 11 and Jordan Peterson led Hamilton with 22 points.

The scoring was rounded out by Hillary Hanson who had five points and 11 rebounds and Brook Furner had two points.

Poole also had praise for Emily Truett, a senior playing on the varsity for the first time. Poole said Truett was invaluable on the press, causing a number of turnovers.

Hamilton is now 8-5 overall and 4-2 in league play.

HCS has only one game next week: Wednesday at home vs. Rome Catholic.

The Hamilton JV pulled out an impressive 37-34 last second win.

Hamilton      19      8     16     14  --  57
Oriskany        2    11       6     11  --  30

By   Fri, Jan 22, 2010

Hamilton's one/two punch of Katie Weeks making three-pointers from outside and Jordan Peterson
dominating underneath was the key for the Lady Emerald Knights in the first half of their game against West Canada Valley Wednesday night at home.

Then Sara Whyatt had her biggest game of the year to add to the momentum of the first half, and HCS finished off WCV 62-35. It was HCS' first league win of the year.

Weeks had 12 points in  the first half against WCV, helping keep the Lady Emerald Knights in the game. Then, Peterson found her range and nailed 16 points in second period, most on powerful drives in the paint.

Whyatt picked up where Weeks left off and scored 14 of her career high 16 points in the second half.

Peterson finished with another double/double: 30 points and 14 rebounds. Weeks ended the game with 14.

Katherine Keever was the only other Knight to score. She had two points, but accounted for a season-high 12 rebounds.

The win makes Hamilton's overall record 4-4 and 1-2 in league play.

Jessica Poole's team wraps up the week with its third game of the week Friday. They face Morrisville-Eaton at home.

By   Fri, Jan 22, 2010

Coley Graham, a 5' 11" junior scored 20 points for Hamilton Thursday night, helping keep the Emerald Knights in the game until the very last moments. But, the Warriors moved slightly ahead with about two minutes to play and stayed there, beating HCS 57-49.

"Coley really stepped up for us tonight," said Coach David Rhyde.

Also helping the Knights on offense was Keith Upton, a 6'1" senior. He had 15 points (including 7 of 10 from the free throw line) and seven rebounds.

Senior Mike Jones had seven points and Tom Hilgenberg had one.

Dan Meeks, who Rhyde praised for his defense in the past several games, had six points. he fouled out late in the game.

The loss makes Hamilton 1-13 overall and 0-7 in league play.

Hamilton plays at home against Brookfield Saturday night.

Hamilton     11     17     12     9  --  49
MECS          15     13      12   17  --  57

By   Fri, Jan 22, 2010

With one of the most evenly distributed scoring efforts of the season, the HCS girls basketball team easily handed Westmoreland a sound 61-24 defeat at home Wednesday night.

Hamilton had three players in double figures and shut down Westmoreland with a solid full-court,
man-to-man press. The Lady Knights also controlled the boards in the win that moved their overall record to 7-5 and 3-2 in league play.

Hamilton will need all those things when they face Oriskany at home on Friday.

On Wednesday, Jordan Peterson led Hamilton with another double/double. She drove in 26 points and
pulled down 11 rebounds.

Katie Weeks added 13 points and Sara Whyatt chipped in 12.

Katherine Keever had four points and accounted for 11 rebounds.

Hillary Hanson had six points.

The win sets the stage for Hamilton's second meeting of the season with Oriskany. The Lady Knights lost by eight at Oriskany early in the season when they were missing Weeks and Whyatt.

"This will definitely be a different ball game," said HCS Coach Jessica Poole.

She said Oriskany remains undefeated coming into the game.

Hamilton          15   11   21   14  --  61
W'moreland       3     6   10     5  --  24

By   Wed, Jan 20, 2010

Beating Clinton is no small feat for the HCS hockey team.

Shutting out the Warriors on their home ice has been even more difficult.

But, that is exactly what happened Tuesday night after the Emerald Knights skated to a 3-0 win at Clinton. The win keeps the two teams tied for third place.

It was the play of the Knights' leading scorer Alex Brink and goalie Brady Carroll that helped give HCS its first win over Clinton in 16 years.

Brink turned in another hat trick Tuesday, he scored once in the second period and twice in the third.

Posting one assist each were Derrick Rogers, Nick Heintz, Kam Mikula, Blaine Holcomb and Carroll, who had 27 saves in his second shutout of the year.

The win comes on the heels of a hard 6-2 loss at home at the hands of New Hartford on Monday.

Hamilton's next game is Jan. 29 at the Utica Auditorium vs. Proctor. Faceoff is 7 p.m.

By   Wed, Jan 20, 2010

Trimming the HCS interscholastic athletics budget in response to Gov. David Paterson's deep cuts in school funding in the 2010-2011 budget he proposed Tuesday will change more than what sports are offered and at what levels. It will, according to the man who oversees Emerald Knights sports, mean a change in the basic philosophy of the program.

Athletic Director Bill Dowsland is looking at eliminating some $20,000 from the $175,000 annual budget for boys and girls athletics from the modified to the varsity level. If the legislature approves the governor's proposed spending plan and HCS loses 13.5 percent of its state aid as projected, the immediate impact means eliminating the lacrosse program this spring and dropping all junior varsity teams.

But, more than that, Dowsland Tuesday night said the loss of JV teams means some students will not suit up to play their sport of choice. For the first time in a long time, players will try out for teams and face the prospect of being cut, of not being on a team.

"This is a huge shift for our athletic program," said Dowsland. "But, it's not business as usual any more, and that some kids will feel the impact is sad."

Dowsland said that it's not possible to simply elevate some JV players to the varsity team in their chosen sport, or to have them play on the modified team. For one thing, all teams are limited by the number of uniforms they have. And, said Dowsland, no one benefits by having large rosters and seeing many of the student/athletes receive no playing time.

And, Dowsland's budget does not have that much room for cuts. Of the $175,000 total, 83 percent is allocated for coaches' salaries and fees for officials. The remainder is spent on transportation, equipment and supplies.

"We already have a very lean program," said Dowsland. "But we still serve 64 percent of all the kids."

However, there may be salvation for Emerald Knights on all teams at all levels in a large green trailer behind Ray's Wayside on Milford Street. The trailer is a year-round collection site for deposit bottles and cans. It was created by the Hamilton Sports Boosters as one of several new fund raising activities the organization has started.

"The boosters are willing to do whatever it takes to keep the sports program strong," said HCS Superintendent Dr. Diana Bowers Tuesday.

By   Sat, Jan 09, 2010

Charlie Melichar wants to get people out of the house in February to run and cross country ski. And, if they discover what a nice place Hamilton is in the process, all the better.

But, the real goal is to have fun, says Melichar.

The vice president of communications and public relations at Colgate, Melichar is a triathelete, which means he competes in events that require him to run one leg of a race, swim a another and bicycle a third. He participated in three such events this past summer.

Now he wants to extend his physical fitness regime -- well two-thirds of it -- to the winter. Melichar is in the process of organizing a duathalon, a race that has participants run a three-kilometer leg and cross country ski another leg that is five or six kilometers in length.

Melichar is still pulling together details, but it appears the event will be held Feb. 21. He hopes the event will begin on the village green and proceeds to Colgate's Seven Oaks Golf Course.

Staging a duathalon in Hamilton makes a lot of sense, says Melichar. He said the village already has an avid community of runners, walkers, skiers and bicyclists. Colgate also has programs that encourage student and faculty involvement in outdoor activities.

Melichar says duathalons are growing in popularity but there are none staged in Central New York, which is home to plenty of thiathalons and a variety of winter sports events. He said the closest duathalon is in western Massachusetts.

Because of this, Melichar hopes that folks from throughout the region will find the Hamilton location attractive. He hopes to that visitors will discover than Hamilton is a nice community, one with plenty. And, if others in the community want to be involved, great.

"If we have a crowd, great," said Melichar, who is doing this simply as a personal project. "If we have a few people who have fun, that's great too. I just want whoever comes to have a really good experience.

"Maybe we plant the seed that this is a great place to have fun."

Melichar said he expects to have more details available soon.