The Board thanks all those who gave of their time to make this tournament a success. We had approximately 275 officials who made every effort to make this a positive experience for everyone.

Planning for next year’s tournament has started, it will be held at Binghamton University on March 18.

Based on initial comments received, the board and participant’s were very pleased with the use of the Events Center for the closing ceremony. Depending on availability and cost the Events Center will be considered for use in the future.

Harriet Carter was nominate by NYSOMA and has been accepted to participate in the Shadow program at World Finals.

There was some confusion this year among regions regarding Ranatra Fusca winner and lottery slot recipients. Ranatra Fusca winners at regional tournaments are not eligible to advance to the State tournament. There is not enough flexibility in the state Tournament schedule to guarantee places for all potential Ranatra Fusca winners. These items will be reviewed and discussed at the Regional Directors meeting in June. Ranatra Fusca winners at the state tournament do advance to the World Finals tournament.

The marketing committee is beginning the process of designing next year’s pins. Ideas are welcome form all Odyssey participants. Pin designs for next year will be finalized toward the end of June. Send you ideas to the NYSOMA State director.

A new Odyssey Awareness video has been produced by CCI and is being made available to the Regional Directors. This video is available in both DVD and VHS and runs about 10 minutes.

It is very well done and provides an excellent introduction to Odyssey of the Mind.

The Board agreed to continue efforts to research and develop procedures to allow for electronic (online) membership registration and for state tournament team registration.

NYSOMA Officers and/or Members of the Board visited 3 regional tournaments. These visitations provide a means for the exchange of ideas and recommendations with the goal of providing a successful tournament and sharing best practices across the state. We appreciate the hospitality we were shown at all 3 locations.

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

Chuck Kabrehl the NYSOMA secretary to the Board has informed the board that he will not be able to continue in this position after June. The board is currently looking for someone interested in filling this position. If you are interested contact the NYSOMA Board Chairman. The Board thanks Chuck for his years of service as Secretary.

The Board has also received a letter of resignation from board member David Stahlecker effective the end of June. The Board thanks David for many years of service.

The next board meeting will be at the Capitol Region BOCES on June 11 and 12.

Jim Hoelscher, Chairman of the Board, March 28, 2005