This past Sunday, members of the Colgate community joined with members of the Hamilton community to celebrate the strong relationship between the two. From 1 to 4 p.m., families and friends gathered on Whitnall Field and engaged in activities hosted by the Blue Diamond Society and co-sponsored by Broad Street Association, Philanthropists at Colgate (PAC) House and Delta Delta Delta sorority. The kids were entertained by the various inflatables, art tables and sports games, while parents and adults mingled and enjoyed the beautiful weather. Colgate students were everywhere, playing games with children, face painting and enjoying the delicious catering provided by the Hamilton Eatery. 

’Gatetown Connection is an annual event with the goal of bolstering the relationship between the Colgate Community and the village of Hamilton. Vice President of the Blue Diamond Society junior Zev Moses was in charge of ’Gatetown this year. 

“The two communities are a little separate; we’re up on this hill and they’re down in town, so this is a great way to bring the two communities together,” Moses said. 

Seniors Nina Fischer and Sarah Katz from Delta Delta Delta sorority helped advertise and make the Hamilton community aware of the events. 

“We put doorhangers on all of the downtown spots and put posters up everywhere so a lot of the town knew about it,” Fischer said.

Their efforts were not fruitless. There were children everywhere enjoying all there was to offer. The ice cream truck was definitely a popular attraction for both children and parents. 

“We have had a good influx of people, many coming and going. I am extremely happy with the turnout,” Moses said. 

Colgate professors were also taking advantage of the festivities. 

“I’ve actually seen two of my professors, and I’m sure many more are here. It’s awesome to see their kids and it’s also a great way to connect with them outside of the classroom,” Moses said. 

The Sidekicks program also helped to bring many kids to ’Gatetown. Sidekicks is a program organized by the Center for Outreach, Volunteerism and Education (COVE) that has been running for more than a decade. It provides young students from the Hamilton Central School with “sidekicks” from Colgate, who then form great mentor relationships. 

Colgate students took to entertaining the kids whether or not they were sidekicks. Pairs of Colgate students and kids were passing

footballs, playing games of soccer, racing through the inflatables and

splitting some classic Hamilton Eatery mac and cheese. The DJ inspired kids to show off their coolest dance moves by playing a number of popular hits.  

The relationship between Colgate and Hamilton is one that everyone truly cares about. From the laughs and the looks on everyone’s faces, it is safe to say that ’Gatetown started off the school year on a high note. Through events like this and programs like Sidekicks, the relationship between the university and the town of Hamilton is as strong as ever.