February 2010 A community where learners excel!

Board of Education: Don Edwards-President; Jack Sines-Vice President; Melissa Stephens; Donald Vredenburgh; Judy Warner. Superintendent of Schools-Robert Bundy; Assistant Superintendent of Schools-Carol Denz.

NewsletterNewsletterVol. X, No. 6

In December, students in Regents chemistry made

ornaments using single replacement reactions.

Each student received a square of galvanized iron that they had to wrap in masking tape before drawing a design. After they cut out their designs, they removed the zinc from the galvanized iron using hydrochloric acid. Next, the students plated their squares copper (II) nitrate. Once they were fi nished, they were able to punch a hole for the ornament hook and take them home. All of the students were creative and their ornaments looked very festive.

-Alison Sheridan-Brennan, HS chemistry teacher

Nicole Szymkowicz adds the copper (II) nitrate to her ornament.

The alternatives are endless. That’s what eighth- and

ninth-grade Regents earth science students learned as they researched wind energy.

As part of a unit in energy, students conducted research on wind energy and then designed and tested wind turbine blades they made. The students with designs that produced the best power will be competing against physics students later in the year. Th is program is part of a partnership between the science department and the organization “Kid Wind”, which provided training for Forks staff .

-Tim Conner, HS science teacher

Cody Link, Keenan Conrad, John Crossman, David Jones and Doug Klein test their wind turbine designs for power output.

For the second year, the Chenango Forks Science Department will be involved with Cornell University and the Museum of

the Earth’s pilot program Fossil Finders.

Th is program impacts Forks’ students in a variety of ways. High School BCC geology students met with Museum of the Earth paleontologist Trish Smrecak at a rock outcropping in Pompey, N.Y. to carefully sample fossil-rich rocks from diff erent time periods.

Regents earth science students are trained to record detailed data about the fossils in the rocks collected by the High

Ava Hudak and Haley Benscoter investigate fossils.

A world of science at ForksA world of science at ForksE

ach year, CF staff and students explore the wonders of science. Whether it be chemistry or earth science, Forks students have many opportunities to learn about science. Below are just a few examples of what students are studying in the science classrooms in our schools.

Creating copper ornaments Researching alternative energy

Finding the fossils School geology students and these students teach our sixth-graders how to analyze fossils.

Students upload data to Cornell University under the watchful eye of High School science intern and Fossil Finder system operator Sarah Andrus.

Continued on page 14.

February 20102 DistrictDistrictDistrict receives grant

The Chenango Forks School District successfully partnered with 10 school districts, including Broome-Tioga BOCES and several community agencies, to

receive a grant from the Federal Safe Schools/Healthy Students Initiative.

Th e SHARE grant is a $5.6 million, four-year community partnership that includes Binghamton University, Lourdes Hospital, Broome County Mental Health, the Broome County Sheriff ’s Offi ce and the Broome County Department of Probation.

Th e focus of the grant is to work together to reduce risk factors that can come between our children and their ability to learn, both at home and in school. Th e project will provide students with safer, healthier schools and provide support to parents and our community. Th e initiative will address student needs in the areas of violence and substance abuse prevention and intervention; social, emotional, and behavioral support; mental health services, and early childhood development.

BOCES Project Coordinator Jessica Frederick presented the SHARE project to the Board of Education at the December meeting. District administrators and pupil personnel service providers also recently met with Frederick to discuss the needs of the students, parents, staff and community. Implementation of grant activities is planned for September, 2010.

-Carol Denz, assistant superintendent

Prevention needs assessment survey report

In December 2008, 572 students in grades 7 through 12 voluntarily and anonymously participated in the Prevention Needs Assessment (PNA) Survey.

Th e survey is designed to assess adolescent substance use, anti-social behavior, and the risk and protective factors that predict these adolescent problem behaviors. By reviewing and understanding the survey results we will have a better understanding of our students’ strengths, our school and community supports, and the risk factors our students may face due to smoking, underage drinking, drug use and anti-social behaviors. Th e survey is sponsored by the Broome County Mental Health Department in partnership with the KYDS (Keeping Youth Drug-Free and Safe) Coalition. Th e survey is administered every two years. Our students also participated in the survey in 2004 and 2006.

Th e PNA survey results were presented to the District Health Advisory Council (DHAC). Th e results assist in planning education programs and events in our eff orts to keep children safe and healthy. Th e complete survey results are available on the school Web site at www.cforks.org. A task force of DHAC staff and student representatives is planning how best to engage students and staff in discussing the survey results. Watch for more information from this task force in future issues of the district newsletter.

-Carol Denz, assistant superintendent

Assemblyman Crouch attends board meeting

Assemblyman Cliff ord Crouch attended the district Board of Education (BOE) meeting on January 14. His fi rst order of business was to recognize wrestling coach Rick Gumble for receiving the 2009 Development Coach of the Year Award. He also recognized wrestlers Jordan

Dyer, Casey LaNave, Tyler Lusht and Kyle Kelly as USA Wrestling Cadet All-Americans and Rickey Bronson as Junior Nationals All-American. All received special certifi cates from Assemblyman Crouch.

His second order of business was to discuss the state budget and how it may aff ect the school district as it moves into the 2010-11 budget planning stages. Crouch said, “We have to clean out our own closet fi rst,” referring to an over-sized state government and how it can reduce its own budget.

Crouch discussed the cost-saving measures proposed by the legislature as well as ways to consolidate various state organizations such as economic development agencies. He explained that school and Medicaid budgets are the biggest pieces of the state budget and are always areas that will be looked at during the state budget process.

He fi elded questions from Superintendent Bob Bundy and Business Executive Kathy Blackman about the budget defi cit, placing caps on school districts and building aid. Crouch stressed that school districts are often “the economic engines that run small communities” and how important it is to keep them viable.

Assemblyman Cliff ord Crouch discusses the state budget with administrators and board members.

-Linda Myers, communications coordinator

3February 2010 DistrictDistrictPTA at the Forks

We are looking forward to March and our annual Parents as Reading Partners (PARP) program. As always, PARP will feature a visiting guest

author. Th is year we look forward to meeting author and illustrator Matt McElligot. Th e children will have the opportunity to listen to McElligot share his stories, his inspirations for writing, and even watch him draw some of his creative characters. It is always a great learning experience and motivator for the author and illustrator in each of us. PARP also has many opportunities for parents to participate in the classrooms as guest readers. It is lots of fun and we hope everyone can be involved. A special thanks goes out to PARP Co-Chairmen Joyce Pixley, Mona Wysocki and Nicole Waskie. We appreciate all of their hard work and planning to allow for such a great program at our school.

We still need your help, participation, and leadership. PTA-sponsored and funded activities are of enormous value to the District. But we cannot achieve our full potential without the support of active and committed PTA members. You can help make a diff erence in the quality of our children’s education and school community.

To become a PTA member, join us at our next PTA meeting on February 2, at 3:30 p.m., in the Harshaw Library. Child care will be available. All that’s needed is a positive attitude. Call Membership Chair Laurie Forker at 648-9715.

We have many opportunities for volunteers and project leaders who want to become more involved with our school and the PTA. Volunteering allows you to have a personal and positive impact on your children’s education. Call or e-mail any one of your PTA offi cers and we’d be happy to speak with you.

-Theresa Collier, PTA secretary

Th e basket raffl e at the Fall Festival.

The Chenango Forks Upstagers will present their performance of “Th e Wizard of Oz” this

month.

Th is stage version is a humorous and unique adaptation of the original book by L. Frank Baum, adapted by Frank Gabrielson.

President: Jim Wachter 656-8831 jlwj@att.net

Vice President: Heather Lake 206-4559 HLake28@yahoo.com

Secretary: Th eresa Collier 648-8985 colliert@cforks.org

Treasurer: Christine Webb 222-7520 Duff y-Webb_C@ sunybroome.edu

Upstagers presents “Th e Wizard of Oz”In the production, Dorothy (played by Alannah Brassard) travels from Kansas to the Land of Oz. While there she meets the Sorceress of the North (Nicole Weintraub), the Scarecrow (Kira Hovancik), the Tin Woodsman (Abby Ponterio), and the Cowardly Lion (Joe Furey).

As Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodsman and the Cowardly Lion journey to seek the Great Oz (Peter Tiesi), they encounter new friends. Lord Growlie (Haley Sterling) and his daughter Gloria (Jamie Kimble), as well as enemies, the Wicked Witch of the West (Sharon Hartzell) and her servant Tibia (Alexandria Driscoll). Will Dorothy and her new friends defeat the Wicked Witch? Will she ever get back to Kansas? Come to the performance

and discover the answers, along with some new surprises.

Also featured in the cast are Melanie Abbe, Sarah Andrus, Lyndsey Church, Amanda George, Lauren Gridley, Alyssa Hawras, Alexis Kellicutt, Sarah Maximowicz, Noelle Valla, Riley Walsh, Stevie West. Th e show is directed by Stephanie Zajac, produced by Brittany Harris and Jessica Olsen, with pit band direction from Drew Allport.

Th e performance dates are:Friday, February 26, 7 p.m.

Saturday, February 27, 7 p.m.

Sunday, February 28, 2 p.m.

All performances are in the High School Auditorium. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance.

Th e cast and crew of “Th e Wizard of Oz”. -Stephanie Zajac, Upstagers

February 20104 HarshawHarshaw

Pre-K cornerTalking Time

Preschoolers, ages 3-5, are interested and curious about the world around them. Talking with

your child about things that interest them and actively engaging them in conversation will help develop language and literacy skills that will last a lifetime. Below are some ideas from the Center for Early Literacy Learning.

What is talking time?Having conversations with your preschooler can be entertaining while helping develop their language skills and learn new words. Talk with your preschooler, ask questions and

encourage him/her to share ideas. By talking to your children and involving them in conversation, you can help them develop new language skills.

What does talking time look like?Follow your child’s lead during conversations. Ask questions about their favorite toy, superhero, or TV program, or use their own questions as a starting point for conversation. Be sure to include where, when, what, why and who. Preschoolers love to talk and will be happy to answer questions about things that interest them.

How do you engage in talking time?Th ere are many opportunities for daily conversation with your preschooler. Remember to keep it fun and interesting.

Sharing a book with your preschooler is a great conversation starter. Ask questions about the pictures and the story. Before you get to the end of a story, ask your preschooler what he/ she thinks will happen next and encourage him/her to share ideas. Mealtimes are a great time to talk about the day. Ask your child what he/she did at preschool, or what his/ her favorite part of the day was. Ask him/her to tell you about it.

Pretend play is a great conversation starter. When you and your child are playing, get into the “role.” Role-playing is a great way to get your preschooler actively involved in conversation.

-Tami Crane & Michele Ashman, HP pre-k teachers

Singing Christmas cheer

On December 20, students from Jessica Olsen’s second-grade class learned how to bring cheer to others during the holiday season. During a classroom discussion

of things we do during the holidays, the students mentioned caroling. Th eir idea was to go around a neighborhood to sing Christmas songs to others to bring them some holiday cheer.

Th e students and their parents met Olsen in her neighborhood and traveled to many houses to sing. Th ey sang songs such as “Jingle Bells,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Must be Santa.” Some neighbors joined the group to participate in the holiday spirit. After the festivities, the students and their families enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies. Th e day was full of joyous, off -pitch singing, as well as happy hearts for the holiday season.

-Jessica Olsen, HP second-grade teacher

Harshaw students sing

On December 22, Harshaw students participated in the traditional holiday sing along. Students and staff gathered to sing holiday songs ranging from

the traditional “Jingle Bells” to a building favorite “Must Be Santa.” Second-grade teacher Stephanie Zajac played all the songs on the piano.

Earlier in December, Harshaw students wrote letters to Santa as a way to practice their writing skills. During the sing-along, Santa made a visit, accompanied by some “elves” from the high school. Together, they handed out personalized letters to each elementary student in the building who they wrote back to. Th e Harshaw students were elated with the letters, the high school students loved working with the elementary students, and was a great way to bring our buildings closer together through a fun collaboration.

-Nicole Knapp, HP literacy coordinator

Santa makes his visit.

Harshaw carolers are ready to sing.

5February 2010

Harshaw February dates2/2 PTA mtg., @ 3:30 p.m., CFE library2/11 Progress report #2

2/15 Presidents Day. No school.2/16 Site Council mtg., @ 2:45 p.m., room 124

Harshaw/KenyonHarshaw/Kenyon

Principal’s message

If our daily mission is to ensure learning is taking place, how do we address issues that interfere with

learning?

While a lot of our eff orts as teachers are directed toward creating learning situations for students, some eff ort is diverted to overcoming barriers to learning. Th is is an area where we use a collaborative community eff ort to address non-academic needs that can interfere with learning.

Academic Intervention Services (AIS) are more commonly known in core academic subjects such as English language arts or math, but AIS can also be provided through speech improvement, counseling, health or dental care.

Behavior Intervention Plans: As part of our Response to Intervention (RTI) we have been successful in creating

written plans to address students’ off -task or disruptive behavior. Th ese plans require input and adaptation by the teacher, student, parent and principal. Our goal is to place the ownership of the behavior and consequences (or rewards) in the student’s hands, but support them when this is a challenge.

Counseling: Eric Sutton is our PreK through grade 5 counselor. He meets with students individually as needed on a short-term basis or during a crisis. He also hosts small groups, such as Banana Splits, and occasionally goes into the classroom for specifi c lessons, including “Second Step” or topics such as relationship aggression. Th rough counseling, a student is supported in overcoming social, family or emotional issues that are interfering with learning.

Speech Improvement Services: Th ese services are provided by our speech teacher, Pam Felix. She works with students, mostly in small groups, to

address speech and language goals identifi ed through assessments she has given. Th is enables students to be more active participants in their regular class.

Health: School nurse Michele Adam works with students who may have a medical need. Th is is done primarily through a nursing care plan and can be for a range of medical needs or handicapping conditions. Some might be life-threatening conditions where others might be short-term medical needs. Again, the goal is to support the child in attending school and being in class as much as possible.

-Bernie McDermott, KI principal

Students learn about the Iroquois

Fourth-grade students held their annual Council Fire, a culmination for their history unit on the Iroquois, who occupied most of New York before it was settled by the Europeans.

Th e children wrote a detailed essay after learning about the Iroquois and then created a three dimensional project to go with their essay. Th e classes were divided into fi ve tribes: Cayuga, Oneida, Seneca, Mohawk, Onondaga and Tuscarora. Within each class, the students were divided into fi ve of the eight clans: Wolf, Hawk, Snipe, Beaver and Bear. Students made headdresses based on their tribe.

Th e tribes came together to discuss the Iroquois nation aff airs and each clan had a representative read a legend on how their clan came into being. After the Council Fire, the students returned to their clan rooms to present their projects.

-Vicky Hamlin, KI fourth-grade AIS teacher Katelyn Church reads the legend of her clan with Kenyon teacher Lori Pourby.

February 20106 KenyonKenyonHoop Shoot Contest

As conference games get underway for the NCAA basketball season, students at Kenyon put their own shooting skills to the

test.

Th e students did an excellent job at the annual Kenyon Hoop Shot Contest. Each student shot 10 times from behind a designated line. Th e winners in both age groups (8-9 and 10-11) advanced on to the local competition held by the Elks Club in Windsor.

Congratulations to our 2009 winners. Neira Mujcic hit 5 of 10 in the 8-9 age group. In the 10-11 age group, David Puglisi hit 8 of 10; Karleigh Voorhis hit 5 of 10 (2nd year); and Robert Bartelucci hit 7 of 10.

Because Robert and Neira were unable to attend the competition, Cody Hill and Natalee Sebastianelli became the second runners-up.

All basketball shooters did an outstanding job at the local competition. Natalee, Cody and Karleigh placed second, and David placed fi rst to advance to sectionals in Cortland.

-Kelly Hillis, KI P.E. teacher

Front: Natalee Sebastianelli, David Puglisi, Neira Mujcic. Back: Robert Bartelucci, Karleigh Voorhis, Cody Hill.

Magician makes magic for students

It was a magical way for children to learn about the holiday

season. In December, third-graders at Kenyon experienced the “magic” of the holiday season with magician David Black’s performance of “Holidays Around the World”.

“Holidays around the World” is part of the third-grade social studies curriculum in which students study diff erent cultures and the types of activities and traditions celebrated during the holiday season. Black entertained students with magic and stories about how diff erent cultures around the world celebrate the holidays. It was truly magical.

-Lori DeAngelo, KI third-grade teacher

Magician David Black performs his magic.

Th ird-graders watch David Black perform holiday magic tricks.

7February 2010 KenyonKenyon

“Caught with Character”

Front: Michael Sehn (R. Bender), Elizabeth Hutchinson (R. Bender), Natalee Sebastianelli (D. Abbey), Jake Merithew (3rd-grade cafeteria), Kaiyu Tio (L. Moody), Jenna Croswell (D. Allport). Back: Valerie Healey (V. Hamlin), Keteri Shiff ner-Villie (V. Hamlin), Klayton DuBois (M. Baron), Hunter Goga (J. Green), Alicia Masland (J. Will).

Front : Maya Reynolds (R. Lapham), Kat ie Sherwood (V. Winters), Colleen Smith (D. Abbey), Rayne Bramen (V. Winters) Abby Grannis (L. DeAngelo), Julia Hauer (C. Ferranti). Back: Dylan Link (M. LoPiccolo), Cassie Figuerado (M. LoPiccolo), Michael Panko (D. Allport), Coulter Wiley (5th-grade cafeteria).

Front: Kaitlyn Walsh (C. Ferranti), Lindsey Russell (H. Hudak), Hannah Benscoter (B. Beach & 3rd-grade cafeteria), Sarah Simonis (H. Hudak), Janey Creson (K. Hil l i s ) . Back: Makayla Rinker (D. Allport), Morgan Galusha (H. Vasina), Darrin Gerringer (V. Allio), Sean Wiser (C. Stankevich).

Front: Alexis Burge (D. Allport), Alyssa House (S. Erickson), Cameron O’Neil (J. Bender), Ethan Knox (S. Erickson), Jesse Dayton (D. Abbey). Back: Graydon Vick (C. Ferranti), Matthew Starr (D. Allport), Danielle Silvanic (5th-grade cafeteria & M. Emm), Kristian Woolston (A. Miller), Nick Walling (D. Allport & K. Hillis).

2/2 PTA mtg., @ 3:30 p.m., CFE library

2/5 Recognition Assembly

2/11 Report cards issued

2/15 Presidents Day. No school.

2/16 Site Council mtg., @ 2:30 p.m., offi ce

Kenyon February dates

It’s who you are. It’s what you do. It’s the way you live your life. Character counts!

February 20108 Middle SchoolMiddle SchoolIntramural volleyball at MS

Another exciting and close volleyball tournament took place at the Middle School. Th e championship goes to the Day Walkers.

Th e competition was tough but the Walkers served up two wins for the victory. It came down to the fi nal game of a three-game series. Great plays by both teams could’ve made the championship go either way.

Congratulations to the Day Walkers on being the volleyball tournament champions.

-Paul Derr, MS P.E. teacher Front: Hunter Kermidas, Caleb Link, Jason Guth, Kristina Collyer. Back: Matt Allen, Kenoa Tio, Mackenzie Bronson, Elena Shelepak.

Attending Th e Cider Mill Playhouse to see “A Christmas Carol” is a time-honored

tradition for seventh-graders. Before seeing the play, they read “A Christmas Carol: Scrooge and Marley,” a play written by Israel Horovitz and based on

Charles Dickens’ famous novel, as part of the English 7 curriculum.

Watching this play enables our students to witness, fi rsthand, Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a misanthropic miser to a benevolent benefactor. After

seeing the play, students were given the opportunity to write a review of the play for extra credit. Below is one of those reviews, written by Melissa Sweet.

-Nicole Dimatos, MS French teacher

On December 10, we went on a fi eld trip to the Cider Mill Playhouse to see a play called “A

Christmas Carol.” We read the fi rst act in class and we are now beginning act two.

It was a very enjoyable experience to see it right in front of our eyes. I thought that the actors did a fantastic job playing all the parts in the play. I especially liked when Scrooge became nice -- he acted all silly. He jumped on the bed and said, “Okay, I’ll be a baby!,” and he started sucking his thumb. I thought that was

A Review of the Cider Mill Performance of “A Christmas Carol”-by Melissa Sweet

Students review play

2/1 Site Council mtg., @ 2:15 p.m.

2/2 PTA mtg., @ 3:30 p.m., CFE library

2/8 HS/MS Jazz Bands Caberet Concert @ 7 p.m., MS activity area

2/15 Presidents Day. No school.

2/26 MS/HS 25-week Progress Report

Middle School February dates

Melissa Sweet.

funny. Actually, it reminded me of my grandma – she’s really funny too, so I imagine my grandma would do something like that.

Another thing I liked was the food. We could eat while watching the play, which I thought was cool. Th e scenery didn’t change at all, so that was confusing to me, but it was still interesting to see.

I would recommend you read the book fi rst, then go to see the play. I haven’t seen the movie yet, but it looks good. So, after

you see the play, you might want to see the movie.

I thank the teachers, the actors, the weather and the school for letting this happen, even though we missed some of our classes and our homework that day.

9February 2010 Middle SchoolMiddle SchoolStudent of the month

Front: Carl Rouse (Technology 8-G. Reid), Seamus Houlihan (Band 7-J. Dybas), Brianna Jeavons (Health 8-S. Deuel), Lauren Reid (Spanish IB-J. Pepples), Brandon Dutcher (English 8-M. Zappia). Back: Hannah Huyck (Home & Career Skills 6-L. Breck), Claire Stocum (Art 6-J. Russell), Sierra Kucko (Regents Earth Science-L. Brooks), Miranda Barrows (English 8-B. Wilson), Carlene Solomon (Art 8-J. Russell).

Front: German Lavrinovich (Social Studies 7-P. Griffi ths), Matt Hole (Science 8-D.Rullo), Alexander Niman (Home & Career Skills 8-L. Breck), Eduard Lavrinovich (French I-N. Dimatos), Vincent Tiesi (Written Expression 6-M. O’Hearn). Back: Casey Watson (Academic Achievement 8-R. Fortier), Joe Silvanic (P.E. 8-P. Derr), Jesse Haynes (Music 7-N. Wildoner), Christopher Roberts (English 7-D. Metzar), John Hardy (Spanish 7-M. Gregrow), Melisssa Sweet (Academic Achievement-P. Swartout).

Front: Bryan Browne (Band 8-J. Dybas), Zach Violando (Math 8-J. Stocum), Joshua Weintraub (Home & Career Skills 8-D. Daniels), Joshua Shelepak (Social Studies 8-D. Honsinger). Back: Alexa Walling (P.E. 6-P. Dykeman), Haley Bush (Academic Achievement-J. Stark), Haley Benscoter (Health 6-S. Deuel), Brianna Felton (P.E. 7-P. Dykeman), Jesse Redfern (Regents Earth Science-T. Conner & Integrated Algebra-M. Tio), Krysta Shannon (P.E. 8-P. Dykeman), Matt Martinichio (P.E. 6-P. Derr) .

Front: Sydney Slottje (English 7-N. Dimatos), Danielle Darling Spanish 7-M. Gregrow & Science 7A -D. Rullo), Andrew Ziegenfus (Spanish IB-J. Pepples), Dan Gridley (Technology 8-L. Baxter). Back: Breana White (Social Studies 7-D. Honsinger), Mia Hayes (Art 7-J. Russell), Abigail Smith (French 7-J. Myers), Sara Clark (Computers 7-S. Deuel), Abigail Lewis (Computers 7-K. Shapiro).

Front: Dylan Silvanic (Band 6-J. Dybas), Kenoa Tio (Social Studies 6-P. Kamp), Jacob Osterhout (Music 6-N. Wildoner), Elliott McRoberts (Reading 6-K. Church), Hunter Kermidas (Technology 6-L. Baxter), Dillon Rohmann (P.E. 7-P. Derr), Alexa Juran (Science 6-T. Vermaat). Back: Tim Robinson (Spanish 7-J. Pepples), Chad Raychel (Spanish 7-J. Pepples), Jacob Hunink (Science 7-C. Church), Mike Bubniak (Technology 7-L. Baxter), Owen Latour (English 7-D. Honsinger), Michael George (Math 7-D. Lynch), Garrett Krisko (Home & Career Skills 7-L. Breck).

February 201010 Middle SchoolMiddle School

Th e “most important” middle school student

What middle school child should we most emphasize and encourage? Who will most ensure that we all have a future? Who is the

most important middle school student?

Many say that it is the young computer wizard who should be encouraged and recognized. Th is child should be promoted and privileged. Th ese children understand the technology that is running the world. We’ve all heard it: nerds rule.

Some say the best readers hold the most hope. Readers learn to think, to empathize and to gain knowledge of worlds beyond the regular spheres of existence. Readers are best prepared to lead the world of tomorrow. Th ey are the wisest.

According to many, the mathematicians are the most important. Th ey are the smartest and most essential. Th ey have logical minds and can engineer everything from elevators to electron microscopes. We need them and we may not be producing enough of them. Present media seem to say that if we aren’t careful, all one billion people in India will become engineers while our kids are still trying to master long division.

What about the historians? History will repeat itself if we don’t understand it. We need to develop the political scientist. He or she will govern, legislate and litigate. Power comes from the political capitals of the world. Who will sit in those seats in Washington, Albany and elsewhere? Some say who cares? Intelligent people say we better care.

Of course we must honor the athlete and the physically fi t. Some say obesity is our greatest problem. It is going to break the health care system, which will break the economy, which will break the political system, which will break the country.

Also, we can’t forget about the creative ones. Our artists, musicians and singers. If we don’t develop those talents, our world will become drab, dank and depressing. Th ose people bring energy and enlightenment. Th ey provide the vivaciousness and vitality that feed the engines of creativity and progress. Such people led the renaissance. Perhaps they should be the ones most honored.

Th e truth, which most of us realize, is that we must honor and encourage all of the above. Our children must have the rudimentary skills of the majority of all of the “types” listed above. Additionally, our society must have all of those “types” if it is to function eff ectively. Th e best mathematicians should be encouraged as should the best singers. We must give honor and prospect to those with potential. And guess what? Th at is the easy part. Farmers of the past never had much trouble getting the cream to rise to the top of the milk bottle. We shouldn’t have that much trouble getting those naturally high fl yers to fl y. We can do it, and we usually do.

But we must do much more than that. We must give respect, opportunity and honor to those who have not yet gained their wings, those with broken wings, and those whose wings simply do not move that fast. A slight shortage of engineers will not bring down a society as quickly as an excess of non-productive, non-educated, and non-caring wards of the state. We must ensure that every child is honored, has hope, and every child has a personal constitution based on self respect. Every child must have employable skills and positive social skills if our society is to progress.

What children do we need to emphasize and encourage most? What children do we need to make ready to ensure we all have a future? Th e answer is obvious: all of them.

-Bill Burke, MS principal

“Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow.

The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing.”

-Abraham Lincoln

11February 2010 High SchoolHigh SchoolCF art included in display

The Broome County Public Library held a regional Teen Art Display January 4-30 at the library in Binghamton. Works included drawings, paintings, small sculptures and more from Diane Sheehan’s studio

art and fashion design classes.

Th e following students represented Chenango Forks art classes at the exhibit: Carolyn Yonda (11), Kimberly Rice (9), Bethany Wallen (10), Emily Feldpausch (10), Alieshia Bowman (12), Kristyanna Fuller (9), Nicole Barnes (9), Rachael Burns (9), Courtney Cook (9), Eric Yonda (9), Amanda Bowman (12), Kayla Sweet (9), Riley Walsh (9), Ashley Heath (9), Sarah Krizan (11), Nikki DiLuzio (12), Rikki Fuller (12), Ramsey Frederickson (10), Alyssa Hawras (11), Ashley Shaylor (11), and Victoria Franklin (12).

Th e students created some wonderful pieces in a very aesthetic and literary environment. Congratulations to all for representing Forks so well.

Art work by ninth-grader Kimberly Rice.

Fall athletes awarded

CF fall athletes continue to bring in some impressive awards. In addition to All-Division

honors, several of our athletes received additional accolades for the their performances this fall.

Jake DuBois, Jordan Barnett, Rickey Bronson, Andy Lewis.Taylor Mazursky. Dan Grady.

-Diane Sheehan, HS art teacher

Forks participates in STOP DWI Basketball Tournament

Chenango Forks boy’s varsity basketball team and girl’s varsity cheerleaders participated in this year’s 18th Annual Stop DWI Holiday Tournament held at the

Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena. Th e event consists of two local team tournaments and one national tournament with teams from Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, Maryland, and New York City competing.

Participants also attended a news conference, a banquet, and a lunch where they listened to speakers who stressed the importance of good character and making good decisions regarding drinking and driving. CF fi nished one and one in the tournament.

-Dave Hogan, P.E. & athletic director

Taylor Mazursky earned 1st Team All- State soccer honors for her outstanding performance. She also holds the career record for goals with 118.

In football, Jake DuBois earned 1st Team All-State honors for his performance as a center. Jordan Barnet and Dan Grady were selected to the

2nd team, and Rickey Bronson and Andy Lewis were named to the 3rd team. Th ese fi ve were also named to the Binghamton Area All-Region Team, and Jake and Dan made the Elite 24 Team (formerly the All-Metro Team), which includes the Elmira and Ithaca regions.

-Dave Hogan, P.E. & athletic director

February 201012 High SchoolHigh School

2/1 Site Council mtg., @ 2:15 p.m., HS conf. room

2/2 PTA mtg., @ 3:30 p.m., CFE library

2/4 Registration deadline for March SAT

2/8 HS/MS Jazz Bands Caberet Concert @ 7 p.m., MS activity area

2/15 Presidents Day. No school.

2/26 MS/HS 25-week Progress Report

2/26 & 27 Wizard of Oz @ 7 p.m., HS Auditorium

2/28 Wizard of Oz @ 1 p.m., HS Auditorium

High School February dates

CF art students in national spotlight

The Pine Tree Poetry and Art Collection in North Carolina has announced that several Chenango Forks High School art students’ work has been published in its national publication released in January.

Th is is the second year that Chenango Forks High School students from Diane Sheehan’s art classes have been selected. Congratulations to these students in showcasing their artistic talents and for gaining recognition for their work through publication.

Th ese artists were represented in the publication: Kali Aswad, Rebecca Broderick, Joe Furey. Nicole Clark, Laura Haley, Jackson Haskell, Alyssa Hawras, Taylor Juran, Sarah Krizan, Ryan Leslie, Allie Maceda, Gabby Martinichio, Sarah Maximowicz, Steven Maximowicz, Yelena Pecheny, Malinda Robinson, Kamara Shiff ner-Korcykoski, Nicole Symkowicz, Amber Villecco, and Stephanie Zdimal.

Chenango Forks High School will be receiving a free copy of the Pine Tree Art Collection for our library.

-Diane Sheehan, HS art teacher

Mike Mastronardi.

Alumni Corner

By the time he was a senior at Chenango Forks, 2002 graduate Mike Mastronardi knew he

wanted to work in law enforcement.

He started taking civil service tests his senior year, including exams for corrections offi cer, fi reman and police

offi cer. In 2004, then Binghamton Mayor Richard Bucci interviewed him for the Binghamton Police Department. He didn’t get that position, but, in 2005, he was hired by the Endicott Police Department. Approximately two weeks later he was off ered a position at the Broome County Sheriff ’s Offi ce as a deputy. After weighing the benefi ts, he accepted the off er with the county.

He worked the road patrol until September 2008 and then was selected to work in the warrant division, which consists of a two-man unit that locates individuals who have outstanding arrest/bench warrants for felonies, misdemeanors and violations.

Mastronardi was also selected to be on the NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force. Th is task force includes members from the New York State Police Violent Felony Warrant Squad, Binghamton

Police, New York State Parole and members of the United States Marshals. Th is eff ort is part of the United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force where area agencies work together to seek out fugitives wanted by authorities.

He was also the only member of the Broome County Sheriff ’s offi ce to attend special training for executing warrants, an intense week-long course held at the United States Air Marshals Academy in Atlantic City, N.J. in March 2008. He has also attended special training on gangs and their impact on our community.

In January, he will be back on road patrol, as the position of warrant offi cer is rotated.

In his free time, Mastronardi enjoys spending time on his boat on Cayuga lake and going on cruises.

-Linda Myers, communications coordinator

Stephanie Zdimal and Alyssa Hawras look at the publication containing their artwork.

13February 2010 High SchoolHigh SchoolStudent of the month

Juniors Seniors

First row: Yuliya Pecheny (AP Biology-T. Giovenco), Dan Grady (AP Physics-S. Laine), Jenna Snow (AP Chemistry-A. Sheridan-Brennan), Hanna Snow (English 12 Honors-D. Metzar). Second row: Jennifer Dayton (PIG-K. Darling), Aubrey Vroman (Photography-T. Conner), Melanie Abbe (BCC Env. Science-T. Conner), Clare Carney (French V-J. Myers). Third row: Travis Pasternak (P.E.-S. Busch), Edward Fisher (Forensic Science-L. Tecza & Sports & Ent. Mktg.-K. Quaranta), Joe Burdick (P.E.-N. Fersch), Tom Raminger (Basic Communications-A. Gumble).

Freshmen Sophomores

Front: Alyssa Hawras (Fashion Design-D. Sheehan), Taylor Boughner (Regents Chemistry-L. Tecza), Jamie Kimble (Foundations of Geometry-T. Sanford), Sarah Andrus (BCC Env. Science-T. Conner), Carolyn Yonda (Studio Art 3D-D. Sheehan), Kate Gitchell (Child Development-D. Daniels), Paige Orcutt (P.E.-K. Shapiro), Shelby Maines (Foundations of Algebra II-A. Biddle). Back: Jackson Haskell (Drawing Basics-K. Rosko & Regents Physics-S. Laine & Architectural Design-D. Sheehan), Rusty Bronson (P.E.-N. Fersch), Jimmy Miller (P.E.-N. Fersch), Christopher O’Brien (Business Information Technology-K. Quaranta), Jessica Collyer (Band-N. Wildoner), Kristen Klem (P.E.-N. Fersch), Emma Whittaker (English-A. Roma), Crystal Ann Evanchof (Mosaics-K. Rosko), Amanda George (U.S. History-K. Darling), Kelsey Giordani (Psychology-C. Spencer), Sarah Krizan (Fashion Design-D. Sheehan), Kyle Gagnon (P.E.-V. Kwartler).

Front: Taylor Lindsey (Earth Science-L. Brooks), Kaylee Krager (P.E.-S. Busch), Sammy Th atcher P.E.-V. Kwartler), Kelsey Brown (Geometry-M. Fendick), Ken Starr (Global-C. Spencer). Back: Zach Casterlin (English-B Garzo), Rachel Burdick (Regents Biology-T. Giovenco & Studio Art 3D-D. Sheehan), Trevor Henige (Studio Art 2D-D. Sheehan), Seth Lake (P.E.-N. Fersch), Evan Lally (Regents Earth Science-T. Giovenco), Ashley Heath (Studio Art 2D-D. Sheehan & Spanish II-S. Byrnes).

Front: Taylor Powers (English-K. Taylor), Sarah Maximowicz (Architectural Design-D. Sheehan), Ariel Roys (English-A. Roma), Stephanie Zdimal (Spanish III-M. Black), Rachel Bouton (P.E.-K. Shapiro), Amber Bates (Earth Science-T. Conner). Back: Brad Oliver (Health-K. Shapiro), Adam Bronson (Keyboarding-K. Quaranta), Joseph Burke (Accounting-K. Quaranta), John Rhodes (AP World History-R. Condon), Valerie Dybas (Global-C. Spencer & French III-J. Myers), Olivia Park (Studio Art 2D-K. Rosko & Integrated Algebra-M. Tio).

February 201014 High SchoolHigh School

Students learn about the law

It’s your name and your information, but somebody can steal it. Twelfth-grade students received some valuable life lessons in their social studies classes recently when Assistant Attorney General

Michael Danaher spoke to them on the problems with identity theft. Students were taught about the tactics used to steal a person’s identity and how to avoid it happening to them.

In addition to learning about the dangers of identity theft, students also learned about intellectual property theft from Attorney Mark Levy of Hinman, Howard and Kattell Law fi rm. Levy specializes in intellectual property theft, which includes patents and copyrights. We thank both for the valuable lessons on issues that can face our students in the future.

When Th anksgiving rolls around each year, you may be asked to draw a turkey. Th e fi rst childhood fl ashback that may come to mind is the famous

hand-traced turkey.

Introduced in Keith Rosko’s drawing class, art students scoff ed at the challenge when he told his class they were to

draw their most creative hand turkey. Th eir attempt to start drawing was less than enthusiastic until Rosko challenged Diane Sheehan’s art class to a “draw-off ” of the hand turkeys. Th e competition began.

From tissue paper to nails, fi nger paints, beads, charcoal,

photo-shopped images, the entries poured in. Team Sheehan and Team Rosko attracted incredible hand turkeys. Th e fi nalists were displayed in the High School library showcase and the judging took place. (Great job to Alison Sheridan-Brennan on judging.)

And the winners are:Best in show & best use of materials: Abby Ponterio

Best use of disguising the hand turkey: Alyssa Hawras

Most creative: Nate Zweig & Joe Sweeney

Best theme: Brooke Robertson

Most graphic: Stephanie Zdimal & Ashley Broderick

Most realisitc: Eric Yonda

Rosko treated the art classes to a pancake breakfast as part of the prize package. What started out as a “fowl” project became the contest to be in. Th anks to all artists in support of the hand turkey.

-Diane Sheehan & Keith Rosko, HS art teachers

Stephanie Zdimal’s version of a turkey.

Geology and earth science students use the Cornell University Fossil Finders computer programs to make forensic interpretations about what happened to life in New York over a third of a billion years ago.

Science, from page 1. Sixth-graders travel to Th e Museum of the Earth with the BCC Geology class and some earth science students to learn more about fossils and rocks.

Some honors earth science students also work with paleontologists and museum designers at the Museum of the Earth

to develop museum-quality displays of fossils for our schools.

Fossil Finders is an extensive program benefi tting science students in all grades. It’s a wonderful way for students to get hands-on experiences while exploring our natural world.

-Tim Conner, HS science teacher

Students with Assistant Attorney General Michael Danaher, back row, center.

-Cheri Panko, CIO/educational communications specialist

“Hand Turkeys” draw fi erce competition

15February 2010 High SchoolHigh School

Student Council hosts blood drive

For every unit of blood collected, three lives can be saved. On December 10, High School students and staff went to work saving lives as they donated to a blood drive hosted by the Student Council.

Th e drive was a success, with 66 donors contributing. From those 66 donors, 56 units of blood were obtained, surpassing our goal of 53. We achieved 105.66 percent of our goal. Of those 66, 48 were fi rst-time donors. In just one day, students and staff at Chenango Forks help save up to 168 lives.

Th anks to all who helped us help others. -Kathleen Quaranta, HS business teacher

Principal’s message

February marks the end of the fi rst two quarters of the academic year in the High School and the

beginning of second semester courses. In other words, half-time in the High School!

When I think of half-time, I often think in terms of athletic competitions and locker room speeches. One of the greatest coaches of any sport arguably was Vince Lombardi. In his pre-game speech prior to Super Bowl II, known as the “Ice Bowl”, he encouraged his

team with just a few words. He said, “…you are a good football team, you are a proud football team and you are a champion football team.”

He went on to say later that the game of football teaches courage, stamina and teamwork. From those few but profound words I would like to draw inspiration for all members of our High School community as we enter the second semester. I truly believe we are a good school, a proud school and a champion school. I see it in the classroom instruction. I see it on the state assessment results, and, most

importantly, I see it on the faces of the people who walk these halls each and every day. So, as we enter the second semester as a community of learners, let me encourage each and every one of you to “learn like a champion” and continue to uphold the traditions that make Chenango Forks great!

-Mike Flynn, HS principal

Marty Beach donates blood for the blood drive.

CF Scholarship Foundation

The Chenango Forks Scholarship Foundation (CFSF) will conduct its annual Phone-a-

Th on on Sunday, February 21, 1:30 to 7:30 p.m. Student volunteers will be calling district residents requesting contributions.

Residents will be asked to make a $10 donation that will go toward scholarships for CF students. Most of the money raised will be given out in scholarships to this year’s graduating seniors; the balance will be invested in

the foundation’s permanent endowment for future scholarships.

Th e foundation believes that all sincere and determined students should have the chance to continue their education after graduation. Awards may be applied toward any accredited vocational, technical, two or four-year college program.

Founded in 1990, the CFSF has awarded over $180,000 in scholarships to more than 460 graduating seniors and continues to contribute to a permanent endowment fund. Th ese scholarships have been made possible by the generous donations of local residents and area businesses.

If you do not receive a phone call and wish to make a donation, please use the form located on the next page. Any size donation is greatly appreciated. Th e CFSF is a chapter affi liate of Scholarship America Foundation. All donations are tax deductible.

To date, 100 percent of the funds raised by our foundation have been distributed to graduating students. Our organization has no administrative offi ce or employees as all our work is done by volunteers. Please consider making a pledge to the foundation.

-Carol Denz, assistant superintendent

February 201016 Home of the Blue DevilsHome of the Blue Devils1 Gordon DriveBinghamton, NY 13901

Nonprofi t OrganizationU.S. Postage PAID

Permit No. 155Binghamton, NY 13901

Meetings & Reminders2/2 PTA mtg., @ 3:30 p.m., CFE library

2/8 CFCA Board mtg., @ 7 p.m., HS lecture 1

2/11 BOE mtg., @ 7 p.m., MS library

2/15 Presidents Day. No school.

Superintendent of SchoolsBob Bundy

Assistant SuperintendentCarol Denz

Business ExecutiveKathy Blackman

Communications CoordinatorLinda Myers

ECRWSS Postal Patron

“Th e Wizard of Oz”

This February, the Chenango Forks Upstagers will present their performance of “Th e Wizard of Oz,” adapted by Frank Gabrielson from the book written

by L. Frank Baum. Th e show will be on the following dates:Friday, February 26, 7 p.m.Saturday, February 27, 7 p.m. Sunday, February 28, 2 p.m.

Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. We hope to see you at the show!

-Stephanie Zajac, Upstagers

Jazz Cabaret concertMonday, February 8, 7 p.m., Middle School activity room

Chenango Forks Scholarship Foundation

Name

Address

Amount Enclosed $

Th ank you for your donation!Mail to CF Scholarship Foundation

P.O. Box 515, Chenango Bridge, NY 13745-0515

Transportation newsPrivate school transportation

Requests for transportation to private school for the 2010-2011 school year must be submitted by April 1, 2010. Please send requests to Transportation Supervisor Jerry

Hartman at 1 Gordon Drive, Binghamton, 13901. If you have any questions, please contact him at 648-7550.

Bus drivers & monitors needed

The Chenango Forks School District is looking for responsible adults to be school bus drivers and monitors. Training is provided to approved applicants.

Th e job provides great hours for parents with children in school. Interested parties may apply to Birnie Bus Corp. at the bus garage, or online at Chenango Forks Transportation Employment. For more information, please call 648-7508.

-Jerry Hartman, transportation supervisor

Wendy’s NightTuesday, February 9, 4-7 p.m.Wendy’s on Front StreetAll proceeds will benefi t HS band

-Jodie Wood, CF band booster secretary

After-Prom PartyWendy’s NightTuesday, February 23, 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.Wendy’s on Front Street

-Kathie Davis, APP committee

CF Band Boosters