The NYSOMA Board held a one-day meeting March 19 in Binghamton following the State Tournament. 218 teams took part in the tournament. The Board congratulates all who participated and wishes the teams representing (35 teams are advancing from the tournament plus 2 division 4 teams) New York at World finals in Ames Iowa good luck.

The Board thanks all those who gave of their time to make this tournament a success. We had approximately 270 officials whose effort to make this a positive experience for everyone.

Next year’s tournament will be held at Binghamton University on March 31 2007. The cost of the use of SUNY Binghamton continues to increase as a result of New York State budget changes. NYSOMA is beginning the process of investigating alternative sites for the tournament. Ideas or suggestions are welcome.

NYSOMA has been informed by Binghamton University that they are no longer able to store our weights between tournaments. If any one in the Binghamton area has access to storage and/or a truck to move the weights please contact me. The weights are stored on three carts, which weigh about 1800 pounds each.

Odyssey of the Mind has received a grant from Microsoft Inc. to introduce the Odyssey concepts into the classroom. As part of this grant Odyssey is requesting educators to fill out a survey. Please go to Odysseyofthemind.com and complete the survey.

The marketing committee is beginning the process of designing next year’s pins. Ideas are welcome from all Odyssey participants. The committee is also looking for ideas for souvenir sales items. Send you ideas to the NYSOMA State director.

Spontaneous combustion with style will be presented again this summer at two locations. See the NYSOMA website for additional details.

The next board meeting will be in Binghamton on June 10 and 11.

Jim Hoelscher, Chairman of the Board, March 31, 2006