poster design by Caroline Monnet

The 67th Robert Flaherty Film Seminar
Continents of Drifting Clouds 

June 24 – July 1, 2022

Programmed by Almudena Escobar López and Sky Hopinka 
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY

FIRST FELLOWS EVENT: Friday, June 24, 6:00 pm
FIRST SEMINAR EVENT: Saturday, June 25, 6:00 pm
LAST EVENT: Friday, July 1, ends at 12 noon

Thank you for joining us as 67th annual Robert Flaherty Film Seminar Fellow. We are delighted that you will be attending!

Program Schedule | Readings | Classes | Fellows Bios

This document presents some basic orientation information which might answer a lot of questions you may have, so please read it carefully. If you have any further questions about the Seminar, you can email us at fellowships[at]theflaherty.org.

ABOUT THE SEMINAR

The Flaherty is pleased to present the 2022 Flaherty Film Seminar June 24 - July 1, 2022 on the campus of Colgate University located in Hamilton, NY, about 30 miles outside of Syracuse, NY. 


All Seminar screenings, discussions, accommodations, dining and special event facilities will be located on the campus and all are accessible for people with disabilities (though we have one off campus activity within walking distance, a shuttle will also be available). Please be prepared to walk between facilities several times each day. These walks may take up to ten minutes and include hills. We do offer a van service between most locations for those that prefer not to walk.


Although parking will be available for participants, driving between facilities is discouraged. In order to ensure your comfort, we must know in advance if you will require transportation assistance between facilities so that we can make appropriate arrangements.  For additional information about the college, visit: COLGATE UNIVERSITY

To view a campus map, visit: CAMPUS MAP.

  • In general, the Seminar is structured around three daily programs, which may include screenings/presentations, each of which will be followed by a discussion. Typically, the morning session will start at 9:00 am, the afternoon session at 2:00 pm, and the evening session at 8:00 pm. The programmers may schedule additional screenings or free time during the Seminar. The screening schedule may vary because of running times or changes in the schedule. The updated daily schedule will be posted in various locations on campus the night before and emailed to you each morning.

    The Seminar is an exploratory process, which emulates the concept of non-preconception. Founder Frances Flaherty said, “When you do not preconceive, you explore, you discover.” To this end, we do not announce the Seminar program beforehand - no one knows what they will be seeing until the lights go down. Notes on each film program will be distributed in the discussion space following each screening session. The Seminar is programmed as a continuum where program sessions relate to each other. Therefore, we ask that participants attend all screenings and all discussions.

    NOTE: We ask that participants do not bring films and videos that are not programmed at the Seminar, as our aim is to spend all our time together focusing collectively on the programmed works.

  • WHEN: Friday, June 24

    1:00 – 5:30 pm (Please note the Fellows Meet & Greet begins at 6:00 pm)

    WHERE: 113 Broad Street Complex, 2nd Floor Study Room
    Colgate University
    13 Oak Drive
    Hamilton, NY 13346

    GPS: Google Maps recognizes the following address:

    113 Broad St, Hamilton NY 13346

    We encourage everyone to attend the entire Seminar and to arrive during the check-in times. If you cannot arrive during the allotted time, please let Eynar (guests@theflaherty.org) know by Friday, June 10 at the latest so that other arrangements can be made for your check-in. If you do arrive after 6pm you should go directly to the reception, screening or discussion depending on when you arrive. We will check you in after the discussion ends.

    KEY DEPOSIT

    A $100 deposit will be required for your room key. Your deposit can be in the form of a signed check made out to “The Flaherty,” credit card or cash. If you are leaving your deposit in cash, please have exact change. Your key MUST be returned by 2:00 pm Friday, July 1, in order for you to get your deposit back. You must let us know if you are leaving campus before 8:00 am Friday, July 1 so we may make other arrangements to retrieve your key and return your deposit.

    SEMINAR OPENING RECEPTION

    All participants are invited to the Flaherty Seminar Opening Reception, Saturday, June 25, 6:00 – 7:30 pm, which will include a light buffet dinner. Exact location will be given to you at check-in. The first screening will take place that night at 8:00 pm, followed by a discussion and a party at Bill’s Bar (named after long-time Seminar attendee Bill Sloan).

    LAST SEMINAR EVENT

    The Seminar will conclude at 12:00 noon Friday, July 1, after the last screening and discussion session. We ask if possible that you do not plan to leave campus before 12:00 noon. Dorm checkout will take place from 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. Lunch will NOT be served, though you may purchase a boxed lunch, which will be available after the final discussion. Everyone must be off campus by 2pm, there are no exceptions.

  • With the COVID-19 pandemic ongoing, we continue to closely monitor and follow all local, state, and national public health guidelines. To protect the health and safety of our staff, guests, and audiences, we’ve instituted the following policies for all our Flaherty events:

    We ask that all participants and staff refrain from high exposure activities in the week leading up to the seminar. Out of mindfulness for everyone’s health, please avoid situations where you may be indoors and unmasked, whenever possible.

    If you are exposed to COVID in the week leading up to the seminar, please notify Eynar (guests@theflaherty.org) immediately.

    All staff and participants will be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. We will acknowledge receipt and delete documentation, so we do not hang onto potentially sensitive information for any longer than is necessary. People who cannot show proof of vaccination, or who are currently experiencing symptoms will be asked to join events remotely, when possible.

    Masks will be required during all indoor events except when eating and drinking. Guests who arrive without a mask will be provided one by Flaherty Staff.

    Hand sanitizer will be provided at all locations. We encourage everyone to make use of sanitizer before entering indoor spaces.

    If you experience symptoms during the seminar, please contact Eynar (guests[at]theflaherty.org) immediately. You will be provided with a rapid test. Any guests that test positive will be asked to quarantine for the duration of the seminar week.

    Note: The Flaherty is unable to cover additional accommodations beyond the seminar week in the event of a quarantine.

    Information on vaccinations and testing in Hamilton and surrounding areas: https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/2589/Find-COVID-19-Testing

  • The first meal at the Seminar will be a light buffet dinner at the Opening Reception. The dining hall meal service will begin with breakfast Sunday, June 26, and conclude with breakfast Friday, July 1. You can order a take-out boxed lunch for Friday, July 1, when you get to the Seminar.

    Meals will be served at the Colgate Frank Dining Hall during the following hours:

    • BREAKFAST: 7:45 am - 8:45 am

    • LUNCH: 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm

    • DINNER: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm

    Between meal times the dining hall will be open from 7:30 am - 7:30 pm, serving coffee and small snacks.

    Please note: Food service will stop promptly at the indicated time above, however once you have gotten your food, you may stay in the dining hall for ½ hour after closing time to enjoy your meal.

    Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options will be available for all meals. Please let us know as soon as possible if you have other special dietary requirements that you did not indicate on your registration form. We will try to accommodate all requests, but if it isn’t possible please plan accordingly.

    There will be coffee/tea breaks after each morning and afternoon screenings before the discussion begins.

    HOSPITALITY LOUNGE (aka Bill’s Bar)

    A hospitality lounge/cash bar will be open after the afternoon and evening discussions. Named after longtime Seminar attendee Bill Sloan, Bill’s Bar offers a great opportunity to continue the post-screening discussion in a more intimate environment. Beer, wine, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. You must be at least 21 years of age to consume alcoholic beverages on the campus of Colgate University.

    THE FLAHERTY ON SOCIAL MEDIA

    To stay in touch with our updates, events, and recommendations:

    Twitter
    Facebook – Flaherty Seminar Facebook – Robert Flaherty friend page
    Instagram – @theflaherty
    #ContinentsofDriftingClouds
    #FlahertySeminar #TheFlaherty

  • MEDICAL INSURANCE

    The Flaherty recommends that all international participants purchase medical insurance for their US stay. Please remember that in the US even a simple doctor's visit will require payment. The Flaherty is not responsible for any unexpected costs due to medical emergencies.

    CELL PHONE SERVICE /TELEPHONES:

    Colgate is located in a rural area and cell phone service is not extensive. The carriers in the Hamilton area that have the best coverage are Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Please prepare accordingly before arriving, as there are no pay phones on campus.

    INTERNET:

    Most of the campus is equipped with free high-speed Internet service (including dorm rooms) for those who wish to bring their own computers. You can connect to the wireless via the “ColgateGuest” account without a password. You will also be able to access the Internet at computer labs conveniently located at Case Library and Little Hall (the building the screenings take place in).

    MAIL:

    If you need to receive mail at the Seminar, letters and packages must be addressed to the following address (please let us know if you will be expecting any mail or packages):

    (Your name)
    Office of Summer Programs
    c/o The Flaherty Film Seminar
    13 Oak Drive
    Hamilton, NY 13346
    ph/315-228-7770

    RECREATIONAL FACILITIES:

    The Colgate campus offers miles of scenic pathways for walking or jogging. The Colgate Huntington Gymnasium is open to Flaherty participants and the gym includes a fitness center, swimming pool, squash/racquetball courts and basketball courts. Clean shoes and proper attire are required. The Huntington athletic facility schedule will be provided at registration. To download the trail map please visit: TRAIL MAP

  • Casual summer clothes and sweaters for cool evenings and air-conditioned spaces are recommended (and warm clothes for sleeping). Rain showers are not uncommon in Hamilton, but often don’t last long. Please remember to pack what you will need, as the town is a 15-minute walk away and does not have as many amenities as a city.

    ACCOMMODATION

    Participants will be lodged in single rooms (unless a roommate has been requested) in traditional dormitories with shared bathrooms. The college will supply two towels, two sheets, two washcloths, one blanket, one pillow, and one pillowcase per person, but as this is not a hotel room you might want to consider bringing the following (these are only suggested, not required):

    Slippers/Shower Shoes

    Bathrobe

    Hangers

    Alarm Clock

    Extra Pillow

    Umbrella

    Extra Towel

    Desk Lamp (there is only one overhead light in the room)

    Fan (the dorm rooms can get warm)

    Additional blanket (it gets chilly in the evening)

    Swimsuit (if you plan to use pool)

    Additionally, the Seminar will provide a display table where information about any organizations, forums, screenings or events can be left for Seminar participants.

    NOTE: We ask that participants do not bring films and videos that are not programmed at the Seminar, as our aim is to spend all our time together focusing collectively on the programmed works.

  • TRAVEL METHODS

    BUS

    The closest Greyhound stations to Colgate University are in Syracuse, NY and Utica, NY.

    You will need to catch a 45min-1hr shuttle from the Utica or Syracuse station to campus, at an additional cost (more information below).

    In addition, Megabus offers transportation from Colgate campus (Hamilton, NY) to New York Port Authority on Friday, July 1.

    TRAIN

    The closest Amtrak stations to Colgate University are in Syracuse, NY and Utica, NY. From New York City’s Penn Station, the travel time is 4 ½–5 ½ hours. For additional information including fares and train schedules call 1-800-USA-RAIL or visit www.amtrak.com.

    You will need to catch a 45min-1hr shuttle from the Utica or Syracuse station to campus, at an additional cost (more information below).

    AIR

    Syracuse Hancock International Airport is the closest airport to Colgate University. You will need to catch a 45min-1hr shuttle from the airport to campus, at an additional cost (more information below).

    CAR

    GPS/Google Maps recognizes the following address: 113 Broad St, Hamilton NY 13346

    If you are driving to campus you will be able to park and leave your car at the registration location (113 Broad St). A car is not necessary for Seminar activities and you should not drive between locations unless there are mobility issues.

    Colgate University requires that all cars have a parking permit (free). Please complete the Temporary Parking Permit Form, print the permit before your arrival, and leave it on the front driver's side dash of your vehicle during your stay on campus.

    Car rental information is provided below as an additional way to get from the airport to Colgate.

    Avis 1-800-331-1212

    Hertz 1-800-654-3131

    Budget 1-800-527-0700

    SHUTTLES TO/FROM COLGATE

    Shuttles between Colgate University and nearby areas (Syracuse and Utica) will be available on Friday, June 24 and Friday, July 1. To sign up for a shuttle, please complete the Pre-Arrival Check-in Form you received via email.

    RIDESHARE GROUP

    Looking for a ride or planning to drive to the Seminar? Join our Rideshare group, where you can look for and/or offer rides to/from the Seminar. Fellows should organize amongst themselves, and be sure to arrive on campus by 5:00pm Friday, June 24.

    Please note: While Flaherty offers this platform, we are not in charge of organizing rides.

    TAXI TRANSPORTATION

    Please note that there is no local taxi service in Hamilton, NY where Colgate is located. Prices are approximate and are subject to change, and DO NOT include a tip.

    Utica to Colgate University: A taxi ride from the Utica Amtrak Station to Colgate takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. We recommend making a taxi reservation at least one day in advance, as these can book up quickly.

    Ace Taxi (315) 735-5055 — $180

    CNY Cab and Car service (315) 922-7330 – $90

    Hamilton NY Taxi (315) 682-1962 — $135

    Syracuse to Colgate University: A taxi ride from Syracuse to Colgate takes about one hour. It is recommended you make a reservation for pick-up, especially if you are arriving at odd times. Where possible, please reserve one day to a week before.

    Ace Taxi (315) 735-5055 — $180

    CNY Cab and Car service (315) 922-7330 – $150

    Hamilton NY Taxi (315) 682-1962 — $135

    Please contact our Guest Services Manager Eynar Pineda at guests[at]theflaherty.org for any travel related questions.

  • The Flaherty Film Seminar provides a safe and open forum for an international community of filmmakers, participants, and audience members. The Flaherty is committed to encouraging a robust conversation, and ensuring a positive experience for all, free of harassment, discrimination, sexism, and threatening or disrespectful language or behavior regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, ethnicity, or religion. The Flaherty reserves the right to condemn such behavior and revoke access, without notice or refund, to seminar events and venues for those who engage in such conduct.

    We expect all seminar staff, contractors, event volunteers, and attendees to cooperate with this code of conduct. Anyone who witnesses behavior that is in opposition to this code of conduct should immediately notify a seminar staff member, email: Samara Chadwick, samara[at]theflaherty.org.

Ticks and Tick Borne Disease

While visiting Hamilton, NY and making use of the trails at Colgate, please be mindful of ticks and tick borne diseases. This helpful
fact sheet, provides quick information about how to prevent and administer first aid in the event of a tick bite. You may also wish to use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone to prevent tick bites.