The Capital Clash [Archive]

RoboMom

11-05-2005, 13:28

Save the dates!
Announcing: The Capital Clash (FIRST off-season Competition)
Sponsored by NBC4, the Digital Edge Expo & NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

• August 27 & 28, 2005
• 9am - 5pm
• Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC

• 32 teams

• Details will be finalized next week and will be sent to all team contacts in the Mid-Atlantic Region. I will also post details here.

Last year the Expo had more than 35,000 attendees over the two days and the event features exhibits, pavilions and fun stuff like:

ecycling event sponsored by Best Buy (last year collected several tons of recyclable electronics), Green Alley, Comcast, Virtual NASCAR, Virtual Tour Through the Inside of a Computer, Entrepreneurial Pavilion hosted by Northern Virginia Technology Council, XBOX, Best Buy Fun Zone, Ritz Camera, Safe & Secure Pavilion featuring a variety of for-profit and non-profit organizations related to personal security, Technology in Education Pavilion, XM Satellite Radio, Fannie Mae Foundation, Myer Emco, M4 Flight Simulator, AOL for Broadband, MicroCenter, NBC4 booth featuring nbc4.com, 4 Winds Weather Station, NBC4/News4 reporters & anchors and Tech Learning Stage that is programmed throughout the weekend with important, fun, educational sessions.

All hosted by IJ Hudson, News4 Digital Edge reporter, and heavily promoted by NBC4.

Freddy Schurr

11-05-2005, 13:44

Maybe Team 204 will come

Wetzel

11-05-2005, 13:46

Awesome!
I'll be there. :D

Wetzel

Lil' Lavery

11-05-2005, 15:28

Is there an entry fee? Since 116 is starting to run low on budget, we need to consider those into our decisions. If we can fit it into our budget, signs look promising to 116 joining in the fun.

Joe Matt

11-05-2005, 15:35

Question: Are you going to be using a FIRST field? If not, where did you get it? Thanks. :)

Kyle

11-05-2005, 15:44

SOOOO many off seasons I don't know what to do...

RoboMom

11-05-2005, 19:59

There will be an entry fee (probably about $100) that will most likely be refunded as "travel reimbursement" like the MD state Fair.
We are using the NASA GSFC field, courtesy of Mike Wade and the crew.
We are working hard to get all the details finalized asap.

RoboMom

19-05-2005, 14:19

Announcement and Registration out to all Mid-Atlantic teams.
Registration form attached here.

The Capital Clash
Sponsored by NBC4 Digital Edge Expo & NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Two Day off-season Competition
• Saturday, August 27, 2005 9am - 5pm
AND
• Sunday, August 28, 2005 9am - 3pm

• Washington Convention Center , Washington, DC

• 32 teams

• Registration fee: $100 if postmarked by July 15. ($150 after 7/15/05)
*We hope to award travel stipends.*

More information on local hotel accommodations will follow. The Washington Convention Center is located in downtown DC, very near to the Mount Vernon Square/Convention Center stop on the Metro. More information on local hotels and public transportation can be found at: www.dcconvention.com.

See you at the Clash!

Bcahn836

19-05-2005, 16:52

Team 836 just might be there. OOO What fun we can have. :)

melitami

19-05-2005, 19:08

Hmmm, that's the weekend before summer term finals, but the other members of my senior design team haven't ever done FIRST before and need some exposure.....might be able to pull a road trip down :]

OZ_341

24-05-2005, 01:14

Team 341 is excited to attend the Capitol Clash.

Even though school starts right the next day, We can't wait to play!!

Hope to see everyone there!

Dan Richardson

25-05-2005, 23:14

Sounds Awesome hope it succeeds and hopefully you get a good response Washington is used to Red Vs Blue competition

RoboMom

26-05-2005, 07:55

Sounds Awesome hope it succeeds and hopefully you get a good response Washington is used to Red Vs Blue competition

Dan, The organizers also made this observation :) We are having fun with applying the "game" to the "real world."
IJ Hudson, our host and local TV personality is putting together a letter to the teams that we will be sending out soon.

Meyerman

26-05-2005, 13:20

exspect to see 56 there the paper is filled out we just need to make sure the drivers can make it and the money will be sent out next week along with our iri money. will their we a web page up with a list of teams registered??

RoboMom

26-05-2005, 16:15

will their we a web page up with a list of teams registered??

Good question. I will have to check with the event planner for the Digital Edge Expo.
I will be doing regular updates to the team contacts and here.

BandChick

26-05-2005, 16:22

I'd really like to go, so I'll probably show up. I could take the train, I mean, I did when I was 10, so it couldn't be THAT hard. Sounds like a lot of good fun, I'll suggest it to 1089.

Lil' Lavery

30-05-2005, 21:03

Team 116 will probably (if it survives and we can arrange transport for the field) be running a Vex "Pit Challenge" type of thing at Capital Clash. For those not at Championships, basically you get to take turns driving bots we provided in a small game. We have several different "square-bots" with herding devices attached for the game, so please stop by and enjoy it.
For those in the more immediate Herndon area, you can see out pit challenge field and game this wednesday at Clearview elemtary, and this saturday (and maybe sunday) at the Herndon Festival.

RoboMom

31-05-2005, 08:50

I am posting this letter (minus the graphics) from I.J. Hudson which was sent out to all the Mid-Atlantic teams.

My name is I.J. Hudson. I am the technology reporter at NBC4 in Washington, DC. I've been covering news for thirty years and a lot of changes in technology in the last decade. I covered the FIRST exhibition at the Maryland Technology Showcase in Baltimore in December, 2002.

I've always been fascinated by robots and their potential to help us in many ways. I've done stories on competition robots, rescue robots, Homeland Security robots, medical robots, and a new generation of robots that will walk more like we do.

That's why I think you and your team should make plans now to participate in the “Capital Clash” at the 5th Annual NBC4 Digital Edge Expo on August 27 and 28, 2005 at the Washington Convention Center. This competition will showcase your accomplishments and show people that science is very much alive in our young people.

I encourage you to sign up early – there is a limit to the number of teams that can participate. You will be an important part of our Expo, both in terms of drawing more people to the event and also as role models for other students who need to see firsthand that robotics can be a lot of fun.

See you at the Expo!

I.J. Hudson
Technology Reporter, NEWS4
NBC4/WRC-TV Washington, DC

Crebb

31-05-2005, 16:25

Sparky 384 is interested in coming. All we need to do is get some mentors to volunteer to come with us. I Look forward to seeing everyone there.

RoboMom

03-06-2005, 11:26

Updates on teams attending. We have received the following registrations:
365, 422.

Wetzel

03-06-2005, 22:08

Updates on teams attending. We have received the following registrations:
365, 422.

I will check this weekend to see why you haven't received from 116.

Wetzel

dlavery

04-06-2005, 00:11

I will check this weekend to see why you haven't received from 116.

Wetzel

...because we haven't been able to get the school to write a check yet (but we will).

-dave

OZ_341

05-06-2005, 10:50

You can count on TEAM 341 to be there. We are just a little backed up on end of year paperwork, checks, and oh yeah.... FINALS!!

The trip has been approved, we have ordered the bus and the kids are excited !!

We'll see everyone there.

Thanks for putting this together!

Al Ostrow

brandy836

05-06-2005, 10:56

Team 836 will be there. We're just waiting on the check from the school.

RoboMom

05-06-2005, 11:43

The event manager for the Digital Edge Expo is working hard to try to get sponsorship so we can refund your registration at the event as "travel stipends." Not a done deal but we remain hopeful.
Dee Tomczak, Senior Mentor from VA and I are co-managing the Capital Clash. We will be putting together some suggestions on less expensive hotels on the Metro line because we know how expensive hotels can be in Washington. :ahh: We are still sorting out job positions, so continue, as some of you have done, to email me if you want to volunteer. jbeatty@usfirst.org

Bcahn836

05-06-2005, 12:15

Team 836 will be there. We're just waiting on the check from the school.

Woo Hoo!!!! This trip should or will be alot of fun. And plus we are taking some of last years seniors and next years seniors, 90% of them vetern members. OOO the fun we will have. . .

scottish144

09-06-2005, 17:14

My team was considering doing an off-season, and we started to look into this, but no one know two things: What is the Capital Clash, and how does a team sign up?

RoboMom

09-06-2005, 17:27

I'd be happy to answer any questions anyone has and email information. I'll have a link soon for the NBC website with info.
jbeatty@usfirst.org

RoboMom

11-06-2005, 20:04

Registrations have started coming in:
357, 365, 422, 539, 888

Dorienne

11-06-2005, 21:02

You can definitely count on 007 being there. This seems like so much fun! I think team 1123 is coming too..=D

RoboMom

13-06-2005, 13:08

Check out the story on the NBC4 website.

http://www.nbc4.com/digitaledgeexpo/4601364/detail.html

brandy836

13-06-2005, 18:48

Team 836 had all of the paperwork (and money) ready to send in, but the members of the schoolboard have a problem with Capital Clash being in DC, and are making us wait to register. Has any other team had this problem?

RoboMom

13-06-2005, 20:45

Brandy, Dee said she received your registration.

Bcahn836

14-06-2005, 06:55

Brandy, Dee said she received your registration.

SWEET, that is some of the best news I have heard all week. I can't wait to go, this trip is going to be awesome!!!

RoboMom

19-06-2005, 13:43

Registrations received to date:
357, 365, 422, 539, 836, 888, 1123
We will be posting the policy re: modifications to the robot in the next day or two.

RoboMom

20-06-2005, 12:02

Policy on robot modifications for the Capital Clash:

We know there are probably dozens of modifications you want to make to your robots. In the spirit of fair play, we ask that for this competition, you keep within the limits set by FIRST for overall size, as well as the use of motors, batteries, electronics, controls, and pneumatics. We will allow you to add up to 5 lbs. of additional weight (125 lbs. overall without batteries in any playing configuration). This should give you the opportunity to brace or reinforce vulnerable parts.

Thank you for your gracious professionalism.

Bharat Nain

28-06-2005, 13:38

Do you have a list of the competing teams?
Thanks

KathieK

28-06-2005, 18:58

<this is not an advertisement>
A certain airline (http://www.southwest.com/hotfares/hotfares_air.html) known for their inexpensive flights has a special right now in and out of Baltimore/DC for as little as $29 one-way...

RoboMom

29-06-2005, 09:10

Do you have a list of the competing teams?
Thanks

The registrations are slowing coming in. In addition to the ones listed a few threads above, I've heard from 14 other teams saying they are interested. I'm traveling right now, so don't have access to the ones that have arrived in the past week, (I think there are at least 3).
I'll update the list next week, along with a list of the key volunteers. We are still looking for a volunteer DJ.
Sorry for the delay.

Wayne C.

29-06-2005, 14:45

The registrations are slowing coming in. In addition to the ones listed a few threads above, I've heard from 14 other teams saying they are interested. I'm traveling right now, so don't have access to the ones that have arrived in the past week, (I think there are at least 3).
I'll update the list next week, along with a list of the key volunteers. We are still looking for a volunteer DJ.
Sorry for the delay.

Jenny- you should have a registration for 25- we mailed it in last week-

Surprise!!

WC

RoboMom

30-06-2005, 16:41

Jenny- you should have a registration for 25- we mailed it in last week-

Surprise!!

WC

Wayne,
And to think you weren't even on my radar screen! Did Paul Kloburg put you up to this :)
Time to batten down. 25 is coming....

Wayne C.

30-06-2005, 23:12

Wayne,
And to think you weren't even on my radar screen! Did Paul Kloburg put you up to this :)
Time to batten down. 25 is coming....

Arrrrrrr! We intend to bring Kloberg with us- he doesn't know it yet.
WD :cool:

RoboMom

01-07-2005, 08:40

Kloburg is coming. He is suppose to be in charge of VIPs. Tell him to get working.

OZ_341

01-07-2005, 09:05

Jenny:

Team 341 just sent the registration with payment on Wednesday. You should receive it soon.

Our kids are very excited to attend. :)

Please let us know if you need any help.

Al Ostrow

RoboMom

05-07-2005, 21:20

Got home tonight from a little vacation time. Dee tells me there has been a flurry of registrations. I will try to update the teams registered tomorrow.
We have a terrific lineup of experienced refs and are doing well on the volunteer front. Al, I'll let you know if we need more as the time gets closer. Still looking for a volunteer DJ...

RoboMom

06-07-2005, 15:25

Registrations received:
25, 341, 357, 365, 422, 539, 623, 836, 888, 1111, 1123.
Lots of inquiries from other teams.

RoboMom

11-07-2005, 14:15

July 11, 2005
Welcome to The Capital Clash teams and volunteers!

Dates: Sat. August 27: 9-5pm
Sun. August 28: 9-3pm

Venue: Washington DC Convention Center. www.dcconvention.com Includes maps of area and Metro system.

Registration: Registration fee will rise from $100 to $150 after July 15.

The Game: We may move “Triple Play” to “Double Play” depending on registration. Otherwise expect the same rules and play.

Unload/Pits: Specifics will be released in August. You will be allowed to unload on Friday, Aug. 26 or early Sat. Aug. 27.

Parking: There is plentiful parking in lots and decks within a few blocks of the convention center. Expect to pay between $20-25 per day for each vehicle. To economize, make use of the DC Metro – the Capital’s subway system.

Hotels: Hotels near the convention center are unfortunately mostly sold out for the weekend. After researching others within walking distance and some at the larger Metro stops, we found that you can get the best rates by reserving online. Here are a few that we found (rates as of 7/8/05):

DC - within walking distance of the Convention Center
Renaissance 159.00
Embassy Suites Convention Center, 1250 22nd Street NW. 202 857-3388. 159.00

Maryland
Hilton Silver Spring 99.00
Hampton Inn Bowie 129.00

Virginia
Doubletree Crystal City 99.00
Embassy Suites Tyson's Corner 169.00
National Airport/Crystal City Holiday Inn. 87.00 (online)

Teams:
• Registered to date (13): 25, 116, 339, 341, 357, 365, 422, 539, 623, 836, 888, 1111,1123 :)
• Twelve additional teams have expressed interest, but have not registered.
• IJ Hudson, from NBC4 has asked for team stories. We will be contacting you, so be ready with your story. :cool:
• Additional Homework to come: We will be asking each team to submit a profile sheet for our announcer. These were used during the Palmetto Regional, and were a huge hit with teams and spectators. This will include general information about your team – rookie year, neat factoids, current projects. Details to follow.

Website: Digital Edge/NBC4 http://www.nbc4.com/digitaledgeexpo/4601364/detail.html
Check out all the exhibitors.

Volunteers: This is an all-volunteer effort and we are unable to offer any reimbursements.

Welcome to the following volunteers:
• Field-Mike Wade(Head)
• Scoring-John Park (Head), Reed Debaets
• Emcee –Jeff Seaton
• Announcer-
• Technical Support-George Marchant, programming and electronics
• Pit Admin-Judy Vanderpool, Anne Spence
• Team Queuing: Sammy Trumbull,
• Reset: Travis Evans
• Referees: Lisa Evans(Head Ref) Anne Bergeron, Skip Breyfogle, Terrell Burch, Chris Cook, Matthew Glennon, Karin Kloberg, Carol Perotto, Steve Shade, Keith Warman, Jeff Wetzel.
• VIPS/Media-Paul Kloberg, John Murdock , FIRST Regional Directors
• DJ-William Leverette

Volunteers still needed:

- Announcer
• Field set-up (Friday)
• Field Strike (Sunday)
• Field Reset (Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-3-at least a 4 hour shift)
• Unload (Friday & Sat. am)
• Technical support for robot mechanical issues

Robots:
We know there are probably dozens of modifications you want to make to your robots. In the spirit of fair play, we ask that for this competition, you keep within the limits set by FIRST for overall size, as well as the use of motors, batteries, electronics, controls, and pneumatics. We will allow you to add up to 5 lbs. of additional weight (125 lbs. overall without batteries in any playing configuration). This should give you the opportunity to brace or reinforce vulnerable parts.

VEX: There will be a VEX field with robots for the public to operate.

Contacts: Jenny Beatty at jbeatty@usfirst.org & Dee Tomczak at robotstoo@aol.com

RoboMom

15-07-2005, 15:42

Vitual Gaming Expo will also be there!

Registered:
25 North Brunswick-Raider Robotics
116 Herndon-Epsilon Delta
306 Corry-Corry Robotics
339 Commonwealth Governor's School-Rapahannock Robotics
341 Wissahickon-Miss Daisy
357 Upper Darby-Royal Assault
365 Miracle Workerz-MOE
422 Maggie Walker-Mech Techs
539 Trinity-Titans
623 Oakton-Ohmies
836 Forrest Career Center-Robo Bees
888 Glenelg-Robotiators
1111 South River-Powerhawks
1123 Autodidactic Intelligent Minors-AIM Robotics

"Check is in the Mail"
007
433
1195
1629
2 teams from Boston

RoboMom

19-07-2005, 11:31

007-Baltimore-Team007, MD
25 North Brunswick-Raider Robotics, NJ
116 Herndon-Epsilon Delta, VA
306 Corry-Corry Robotics, PA
339 Commonwealth Governor's School-Rapahannock Robotics, VA
341 Wissahickon-Miss Daisy, PA
357 Upper Darby-Royal Assault, PA
365 Miracle Workerz-MOE, DE
422 Maggie Walker-Mech Techs, VA
433-Firebirds, PA
539 Trinity-Titans,
623 Oakton-Ohmies,
836 Forrest Career Center-Robo Bees, MD
888 Glenelg-Robotiators, MD
1111 South River-Powerhawks, MD
1123 Autodidactic Intelligent Minors-AIM Robotics, VA
1418

"Check is in the Mail"
1195
1446
1629
2 teams from Boston

fnsnet

19-07-2005, 16:16

Question: Are you going to be using a FIRST field? If not, where did you get it? Thanks. :)

we do have an official field, ordered from Innovation First.

Bcahn836

19-07-2005, 16:32

I believe Mr. Mike Wade is providing the feild for this event. So I am assuming it is the feild from the cheasapeke regional.

RoboMom

27-07-2005, 19:38

• Registered: 18
007-Baltimore-Team007, MD
25 North Brunswick-Raider Robotics, NJ
116 Herndon-Epsilon Delta, VA
306 Corry-Corry Robotics, PA
339 Commonwealth Governor's School-Rapahannock Robotics, VA
341 Wissahickon-Miss Daisy, PA
357 Upper Darby-Royal Assault, PA
365 Miracle Workerz-MOE, DE
422 Maggie Walker-Mech Techs, VA
433-Firebirds, PA
539 Trinity-Titans,
623 Oakton-Ohmies,
836 Forrest Career Center-Robo Bees, MD
888 Glenelg-Robotiators, MD
1111 South River-Powerhawks, MD
1123 Autodidactic Intelligent Minors-AIM Robotics, VA
1418 Mason Robotics, VA
1446, Friendship Edison, DC

"Check is in the Mail"
384-VA
1195-MD
1629-MD
1685-MA
1687-MA

Billfred

27-07-2005, 21:09

Yee-haw! One more month!

The question remains, though...will 116 be dry enough by then (http://www.factorfantasy.com/Photos/wetbot.jpg), or are they testing the water game hypothesis even further?

I can't wait for this one--it oughta be good.

Joe Matt

27-07-2005, 21:26

Darn you UD, why must you start August 18th!!!!

Wetzel

27-07-2005, 21:51

Darn you UD, why must you start August 18th!!!!

I start the 22nd of August, but I'll still be there. You should be there too.

Wetzel

Anthony

27-07-2005, 21:59

team 900 will hopefully be there, we are working out a few of the small details first though. Hopefully we will get our registration completed within the next week. Even if the team doesnt go to compete, I will be there. Hope to see everybody there.

Joe Matt

27-07-2005, 22:12

I start the 22nd of August, but I'll still be there. You should be there too.

Wetzel

Wetzel, you're 2 hours away with a home to stay at! I'm 6+ and my family moved out of Richmond last week!

karinka13

28-07-2005, 02:54

ooo im excited!! 6 weeks out in pittsburgh away from my baby robot=not good. off season competition when i get back=very good!

melitami

28-07-2005, 09:18

Wetzel, you're 2 hours away with a home to stay at! I'm 6+ and my family moved out of Richmond last week!

Eh, Philly's about the same distance from DC as Richmond, JosephM. :)

If I'm not moving that weekend, I'll be there with my senior design partner, who's never done FIRST before :]

Joe Matt

28-07-2005, 12:19

Eh, Philly's about the same distance from DC as Richmond, JosephM. :)

If I'm not moving that weekend, I'll be there with my senior design partner, who's never done FIRST before :]

Yeah, but I'll be in college in Dayton starting the 18th. It's not the distance, it's the transportation and time!

dlavery

28-07-2005, 12:29

Yeah, but I'll be in college in Dayton starting the 18th. It's not the distance, it's the transportation and time!

If you are in Dayton, can you pick up my van and bring it back to Virginia? It is still there after IRI (it's a long story...).

-dave

Billfred

28-07-2005, 14:16

Yeah, but I'll be in college in Dayton starting the 18th. It's not the distance, it's the transportation and time!

Classes start for me on the 18th. I'm just going to fly--the only way to drive back in time for my 10:10 AM class Monday morning would be to crash midway--and that would bring the cost above that of a plane ticket.

C'mon, you know you want to face the joys of air travel... ;)

(Actually, flying from Maine back to Columbia was pretty painless--everyone in security in Portland actually laughs. Although that pizza in Dulles did taste a little funky...)

Joe Matt

28-07-2005, 15:41

If you are in Dayton, can you pick up my van and bring it back to Virginia? It is still there after IRI (it's a long story...).

-dave

I'll see what I can do Dave. ;)

RoboMom

30-07-2005, 09:43

We will be ordering pit banners on Aug. 10.
If you are coming, but don't have your registration to us by then, you can still play but no banner.

RoboMom

01-08-2005, 14:58

Ignore the above post.

To all the area teams re: The Capital Clash:

NBC4 has asked us to close registration on Friday, August 5. :yikes:

We need to plan for space, order pit banners, and start publicizing your teams. :)

If you have not registered, but want to participate, we must receive your registration form with your contact information by Friday August 5. If your team will have difficulty getting a check to us by then, please contact Dee Tomczak at robotstoo@aol.com. We are working together with the event planners for NBC4 and do not have the flexibility of allowing "walk-ins."

As of Monday, August 1, we have received registration from the following teams:
007-Baltimore-Team007, MD
25 North Brunswick-Raider Robotics, NJ
116 Herndon-Epsilon Delta, VA
306 Corry-Corry Robotics, PA
339 Commonwealth Governor's School-Rapahannock Robotics, VA
341 Wissahickon-Miss Daisy, PA
357 Upper Darby-Royal Assault, PA
365 Miracle Workerz-MOE, DE
422 Maggie Walker-Mech Techs, VA
433-Firebirds, PA
539 Trinity-Titans,
623 Oakton-Ohmies,
836 Forrest Career Center-Robo Bees, MD
888 Glenelg-Robotiators, MD
1111 South River-Powerhawks, MD
1123 Autodidactic Intelligent Minors-AIM Robotics, VA
1418 Mason Robotics, VA
1446, Friendship Edison, DC

We have been told that the following teams are coming but we have not received your registration: :(

225-PA
384-VA
900-NC
1195-MD
1629-MD
1685-MA
1687-MA

Meyerman

02-08-2005, 10:14

theres some talk of heading down i guess we are gunna hafta decide fairly soon. we are figuring out if we can get the bot down there. other then that we will probably go.

RoboMom

02-08-2005, 15:34

August 2, 2005
Welcome to The Capital Clash teams and volunteers!
Dates: Sat. August 27: 9-5pm Sun. August 28: 9-3pm

Venue: Washington DC Convention Center. www.dcconvention.com includes maps of area and Metro system, information about parking, hotels, & restaurants.

Registration: Registration will close on Friday, August 5. Registration fee is $150.

Communication-Teams: One third of you chose not complete all the information on your registration forms. No alternates. No telephone numbers. In case of emergency right before or during the event, we will make one phone call to each contact number you have listed. During The Clash, cell phone numbers that you have with you will be useful. Please send me alternates and contact information, and I will update your records. Help us to help you and to publicize your team by being able to contact you. Include emails for those who should receive updates. jbeatty@usfirst.org

IJ Hudson, from NBC4 has asked for team stories. Be ready with your story.
Additional Homework to come: We will be asking each team to submit a profile sheet for our announcer. These were used during the Palmetto Regional, and were a huge hit with teams and spectators. This will include general information about your team – rookie year, neat factoids, and current projects. Details to follow.

Communication-Volunteers: I will attach a volunteer registration form. Please complete and email back to jbeatty@usfirst.org

The Game: We may move “Triple Play” to “Double Play”. Details to follow. Otherwise expect the same rules and play.

Unload/Pits: You will be allowed to unload on Friday, Aug. 26 or Sat. Aug. 27. Details on times for unloading to follow. Drive to the dock entrance at 9th and M Street NW or 7th and M Street NW. They will go to the Halls D & E Loading Dock Ramp and proceed to the Hall E docks. Someone with Freeman Decorating will direct you to the proper entrance for unloading. Teams must unload and move the vehicles quickly. Ideally, people should unload and deliver so the vehicle can exit the dock area immediately. This will help to alleviate traffic jams

Parking: There is parking in lots and decks within a few blocks of the convention center, but many of the lots are closed on Sunday. Plan where to park by visiting www.dcconvention.com and click on the suggested lots on the map to find out their hours. Expect to pay between $20-25 per day for each vehicle. To economize, make use of the DC Metro – the Capital’s subway system.

Hotels: Hotels near the convention center are mostly sold out for the weekend. After researching others within walking distance and some at the larger Metro stops, we found that you can get the best rates by reserving online. Here are a few that we found (rates as of 7/8/05):

DC - within walking distance of the Convention Center

Renaissance 159.00
Embassy Suites Convention Center,1250 22nd Street NW. 202 857-3388.189.00
*Holiday Inn - Capitol, on C St SW. About a block from the Air and Space. It's a 1/4 mile or less to a metro and I can on a line directly to the convention center-$99/night prepaid (non-refundable), $109 with the ability to cancel up to the check-in date. Both rates available through Holiday Inn's website.

Maryland

Hilton Silver Spring 99.00
Hampton Inn Bowie 129.00

Virginia

Doubletree Crystal City 99.00
Embassy Suites Tyson's Corner 169.00
*National Airport/Crystal City Holiday Inn. 87.00 (online)
*Referrals from volunteers who have booked at this hotel.

Teams:

Registered: 19
007-Baltimore-Team007, MD
25 North Brunswick-Raider Robotics, NJ
116 Herndon-Epsilon Delta, VA
306 Corry-Corry Robotics, PA
339 Commonwealth Governor's School-Rappahannock Robotics, VA
341 Wissahickon-Miss Daisy, PA
357 Upper Darby-Royal Assault, PA
365 Miracle Workerz-MOE, DE
384-Sparky 384, VA
422 Maggie Walker-Mech Techs, VA
433-Firebirds, PA
539 Trinity-Titans,
623 Oakton-Ohmies,
836 Forrest Career Center-Robo Bees, MD
888 Glenelg-Robotiators, MD
1111 South River-Powerhawks, MD
1123 Autodidactic Intelligent Minors-AIM Robotics, VA
1418 Mason Robotics, VA
1446, Friendship Edison, DC

Still need registration:

225-PA
900-NC
1195-MD
1629-MD
1685-MA
1687-MA

Website: Digital Edge/NBC4 http://www.nbc4.com/digitaledgeexpo/4601364/detail.html
Check out all the exhibitors and things to do.

Robots, Safety & Inspections:

We know there are probably dozens of modifications you want to make to your robots. In the spirit of fair play, we ask that for this competition, you keep within the limits set by FIRST for overall size, as well as the use of motors, batteries, electronics, controls, and pneumatics. We will allow you to add up to 5 lbs. of additional weight (125 lbs. overall without batteries in any playing configuration). This should give you the opportunity to brace or reinforce vulnerable parts.
We will be sending out safety inspection checklists. Details to follow

Volunteers: This is an all-volunteer effort and we are unable to offer any reimbursements.

Volunteers still needed:

Announcer
Field set-up (Friday)
Field Strike (Sunday)
Field Reset (Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-3-at least a 4 hour shift)
Unload (Friday & Sat. am)
Technical Help-mechanical

Welcome to the following volunteers:

Field-Mike Wade(Head), Pete Baltzell, Rob Taminelli
Scoring-John Park (Head), Reed Debaets
Emcee –Jeff Seaton
Announcer-
Technical Support-George Marchant, programming and electronics, , Paul Kloberg will be available for all event troubleshooting
Set Up (4 vols with union)-
Pit Admin-Judy Vanderpool,
Team Queuing (2): Sammy Trumbull, Linda Gray-Niznik (Sat)
Reset (8): Travis Evans, Dave Niznik (Sat), Chris Niznik (Sat), Kathy Rice (Sat. & Sun),
Referees: Lisa Evans (Head Ref) Anne Bergeron, Skip Breyfogle, Terrell Burch, Chris Cook, Matthew Glennon, Karin Kloberg, Carol Perotto, Steve Shade, Keith Warman, Jeff Wetzel.
VIPS/Media-Paul Kloberg, John Murdock , Pattie Cook & FIRST Regional Directors
DJ-William Leverette
Strike (4 vols with union)
Not yet assigned-Amy Peterson, Stu and Lucinda Crabtree +2, Mildred Porter, Lisa Keys, Matt Leese, Sandeep Khankhoje, David Mitchell
Unload (1):

Uniform: The venue will be air conditioned. Please wear closed toe shoes and don’t forget your safety glasses. Remember that thousands of the non-FIRST public will be observing this event. Volunteers-Feel free to wear any FIRST shirt from this or past years, if you have one. To date, we have no official Capital Clash shirts. Referees will be assigned official ref shirts.

VEX: Dave Lavery will be running a table with 9 VEX robots, for the public to operate, next to the Competition.

FLL: Local FLL teams will be running a display, coordinated by Mark Heil. Contact him at mheil@bgcharford.org with any questions.

Contacts: Co-coordinators: Jenny Beatty at jbeatty@usfirst.org or

Dee Tomczak at robotstoo@aol.com

RoboMom

04-08-2005, 19:57

Registration closes Friday August 5.

• Registered: 20
7-Team007, Baltimore, MD
25 Raider Robotics, North Brunswick-NJ
116 Epsilon Delta, Herndon-VA
225-William Penn High, York, PA
306 Corry Robotics, Corry-PA
339 Commonwealth Governor's School-Rappahannock Robotics, VA
341 Miss Daisy, Wissahickon-PA
357 Royal Assault, Upper Darby-PA
365 Miracle Workerz-MOE, Wilmington, DE
384-Sparky 384, VA
422 Maggie Walker-Mech Techs, VA
433-Mount St. Joseph Firebirds, PA
539 Trinity-Titans, VA
623 Oakton-Ohmies, VA
836 Forrest Career Center-Robo Bees, MD
888 Robotiators, Glenelg-MD
1111 -Powerhawks, South River MD
1123 Autodidactic Intelligent Minors-AIM Robotics, VA
1389-Walt Whitman Robotics, Bethesda, MD
1418 Mason Robotics, VA
1446, Friendship Edison, Washington, DC

"Check is in the Mail" or they said they are interested
0075-NJ
0900-NC
1195-MD
1629-MD
1685-MA
1687-MA

phrontist

05-08-2005, 09:14

Registration closes Friday August 5.
1418 Mason Robotics, VA

Actually, our name is Vae Victus (http://team1418.org) of George Mason High School.

Oh, and I just made a list (http://takiweb.com/~tao/capclash.txt) of Chiefdelphi usernames who are on teams that are on the above list. You may find it useful in meeting people.

RoboMom

05-08-2005, 17:56

Actually, our name is Vae Victus (http://team1418.org) of George Mason High School.

Oh, and I just made a list (http://takiweb.com/~tao/capclash.txt) of Chiefdelphi usernames who are on teams that are on the above list. You may find it useful in meeting people.

I'll update the notes. Right now I'm wrestling with the excel file which is sending me an error message after transit. ARgg... :mad:
2 more teams today and we are trying to track down the others....

That list made me smile. there are names on there that I am sure have not logged on in at least 2 years..

Dorienne

05-08-2005, 18:29

RoboMom

06-08-2005, 15:18

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED

Welcome to the 25 teams!

7-Team007, Baltimore, MD
25-Raider Robotix, North Brunswick, NJ
116-Epsilon Delta, Herndon, VA
225-York High Bearcats, York, PA
306-CRT, Corry, PA
339-Rappahannock Robotics, Stafford, VA
341-Miss Daisy, Ambler, PA
357-Royal Assault, Drexel Hill, PA
365-Miracle Workerz, Wilmington, DE
384-Sparky 384, Richmond, VA
422-MechTechs, Richmond, VA
433-Firebirds, Flourtown, PA
539-Titans, Richmond, VA
623-Ohmies, Vienna, VA
836-Robo Bees, Leonardtown, MD
888-Robotiators, Glenelg-MD
1111-The Power Hawks, Edgewater, MD
1123-AIM Robotics, Alexandria, VA
1195-Vipers, Seat Pleasant, MD
1389-Team Robit, Bethesda, MD
1418- Vae Victus, Falls Church, VA
1446-Robo Knights, Washington, DC
1629-Garrett Coalition, McHenry, MD
1685-Bad Karma, Worcester, MA
1687-The Dorks, Worcester, MA

DUCKIE

06-08-2005, 20:37

There are some awsome teams coming... this is going to be a blast!!!

and...

I don't have to be queing people... Wahooo!!!

RoboMom

07-08-2005, 17:50

We are still looking for some help with set up and tear down.

RoboMom

09-08-2005, 16:23

The Capital Clash News for TEAMS– Update- August 9, 2005

Official Name: NBC4 Digital Edge Expo http://www.nbc4.com/digitaledgeexpo/4601364/detail.html Check out all the exhibitors and things to do. Bring any electronics to be recycled.

Times & Dates:
Fri. August 26: 8am-3pm.
Teams-if you are able, please load in on Friday.

Sat. August 27: **7:30-8:30 load in for teams**; load in dock doors close at 9am sharp;
NBC4 Digital Edge Expo and The Capital Clash run 9-5pm

Sun. August 28: load in doors open at 8am, event runs 9am-5pm, Awards with IJ Hudson at 3:30pm.Breakdown starts at 5pm. Load in doors will be shut until 5pm. There is a big electronics recycling event drop off until then. Please do not pack up and depart the show until 5pm.

Venue: Washington DC Convention Center. www.dcconvention.com includes maps of area and Metro system, information about parking, hotels, & restaurants.

Communication-Teams: In case of emergency right before or during the event, we will make one phone call to each contact number you have listed on your registration form. Send me alternates and contact information, and I will update your records. Help us to publicize your team.

• IJ Hudson, from NBC4 has asked for team stories. We will be contacting you, so be ready with your story.
• We will be asking each team to submit a profile sheet for our announcer. This will include general information about your team – rookie year, neat factoids, and current projects. Details to follow.

Load-In /Pits: Drive to the dock entrance at 9th and M Street NW or 7th and M Street NW. They will go to the Halls D & E Loading Dock Ramp and proceed to the Hall E docks. Someone with Freeman Decorating will direct you to the proper entrance for unloading. Teams must unload and move the vehicles quickly. Ideally, people should unload and deliver so the vehicle can exit the dock area immediately. This will help to alleviate traffic jams
• Teams-if you are able, please load in on Friday, Aug. 26, 8am-3pm.
• Sat. Aug. 27 **7:30-8:30 load in for teams** Load in dock doors close at 9am sharp.

Parking: There is parking in lots and decks within a few blocks of the convention center, but many of the lots are closed on Sunday. Plan where to park by visiting www.dcconvention.com and click on the suggested lots on the map to find out their hours. Expect to pay between $20-25 per day for each vehicle. To economize, make use of the DC Metro – the Capital’s subway system.

Hotels: Contact me if you would like the previously posted info on hotels.

Uniform: Please wear closed toe shoes and don’t forget your safety glasses. Remember that thousands of the non-FIRST public will be observing this event and first FIRST impressions count!

The Game: “Triple Play”. Expect the same rules and play.

Robots, Safety & Inspections:
We know there are probably dozens of modifications you want to make to your robots. In the spirit of fair play, we ask that for this competition, you keep within the limits set by FIRST for overall size, as well as the use of motors, batteries, electronics, controls, and pneumatics. We will allow you to add up to 5 lbs. of additional weight (125 lbs. overall without batteries in any playing configuration). This should give you the opportunity to brace or reinforce vulnerable parts. We will have a Referee safety advisor who will be responsible for final calls on all robots.

• We will be sending out safety inspection checklists. Details to follow

VEX: Dave Lavery will be running a table with 9 VEX robots for the public to operate.

FLL: Local FLL teams will be running a display, coordinated by Mark Heil. Contact him at mheil@bgcharford.org.

Student guides: Sign up students to give tours and talk to VIPs at pit admin.

Registration: CLOSED. 25 teams
7-Team007, Baltimore, MD
25-Raider Robotix, North Brunswick, NJ
116-Epsilon Delta, Herndon, VA
225-York High Bearcats, York, PA
306-CRT, Corry, PA
339-Rappahannock Robotics, Stafford, VA
341-Miss Daisy, Ambler, PA
357-Royal Assault, Drexel Hill, PA
365-Miracle Workerz, Wilmington, DE
384-Sparky 384, Richmond, VA
422-MechTechs, Richmond, VA
433-Firebirds, Flourtown, PA
539-Titans, Richmond, VA
623-Ohmies, Vienna, VA
836-Robo Bees, Leonardtown, MD
888-Robotiators, Glenelg-MD
1111-The Power Hawks, Edgewater, MD
1123-AIM Robotics, Alexandria, VA
1195-Vipers, Seat Pleasant, MD
1389-Team Robit, Bethesda, MD
1418- Vae Victus, Falls Church, VA
1446-Robo Knights, Washington, DC
1629-Garrett Coalition, McHenry, MD
1685-Bad Karma, Worcester, MA
1687-The Dorks, Worcester, MA

Capital Clash planning committee: Jenny Beatty & Dee Tomczak-Co-Coordinators, Jill Palmer-Event Manager for Expo, Mike Wade,

Contacts: Co-coordinators: Jenny Beatty at jbeatty@usfirst.org or
Dee Tomczak at robotstoo@aol.com

RoboMom

10-08-2005, 16:25

"Famous" Faces coming to the NBC4 Digital Edge Expo.

http://www.nbc4.com/digitaledgeexpo/4826931/detail.html

and they just asked me if some robots can help "open" the show. You bet!

RoboMom

19-08-2005, 17:54

August 19, 2005
The Capital Clash News for TEAMS

NBC4 Digital Edge Expo
http://www.nbc4.com/digitaledgeexpo/4601364/detail.html
• Sat. August 27 & Sunday August 28, 2005. 9am-5pm
• Check out all the exhibitors and things to do.
• Open to the public and free.
• Bring old electronics to be recycled.

Team Load In/Out & Capital Clash Schedule:

Friday, August 26:
• No load in after 4:30 pm.
• 8am-4:30pm at the Load DOCK doors.
• Please load in on Friday if at all possible. Saturday will be crowded and tight turnaround time.

Saturday, August 27:
• 7:30-8:30am only at the Load DOCK doors
• Load DOCK Doors will close at 9am and there will be no robot admittance.
• There will be no robot admittance through the front doors.
• Sign in at Pit Admin.
• 8:30am-Drivers Meeting
• 9am-Opening ceremonies for the NBC4 Digital Edge Expo
• There will be practice rounds after the opening ceremonies.
• Some awards presented by NBC TV personalities in the pm.
• The Capital Clash will run until 5pm. Match schedule will be distributed at the event.

Sunday, August 28:
• Load Dock Doors open at 8-9am, but will remain shut from 9-5pm. No Load Out until 5pm.
• 8:30am-Drivers Meeting
• 9am-Opening of NBC4 Digital Edge Expo
• Awards in pm by IJ Hudson
• The Capital Clash will run until 5pm.
• We welcome team help in the tear down process. Let pit admin know if your team can help after 5pm.

Directions:

• Load Dock entrance at 9th and M Street NW or 7th and M Street NW. They will go to the Halls D & E Loading Dock Ramp and proceed to the Hall E docks. Someone with Freeman Decorating will direct you.

• Security will let you into the front doors of the Convention Center starting at 7am on Sat. and 8am on Sunday. Pit admin will open at 7:30 for volunteers and teams. Plan to arrive by 8am.

• Main entrance: Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW, Washington DC 20001 or use the entrance on L Street. Take the escalator up one level -- Follow signs to the NBC4 Digital Edge Expo.

• Metro Stop: Mount Vernon Square/7th St.-Convention Center on the Yellow or Green line.

• www.dcconvention.com includes maps of area and Metro system, information about parking, hotels, & restaurants and detailed driving directions.

• Parking: There is parking within a few blocks of the Convention Center, but many of the lots are closed on Saturday & Sunday. Plan where to park by visiting www.dcconvention.com and click on the suggested lots on the map to find out their hours. Expect to pay between $20-25 per day for each vehicle. To economize, make use of the DC Metro.

Teams

• ATTACHMENT-Info sheet to be filled out about your team for NBC4 and for our announcers.

• ATTACHMENT-Safety Checklist & Letter from referees

• Team Dress: Please wear closed toe shoes and don’t forget your safety glasses. Remember that thousands of the non-FIRST public will be observing this event and FIRST impressions count!

Registration: CLOSED. 25 teams
7-Team007, Baltimore, MD
25-Raider Robotix, North Brunswick, NJ
116-Epsilon Delta, Herndon, VA
225-York High Bearcats, York, PA
306-CRT, Corry, PA
339-Rappahannock Robotics, Stafford, VA
341-Miss Daisy, Ambler, PA
357-Royal Assault, Drexel Hill, PA
365-Miracle Workerz, Wilmington, DE
384-Sparky 384, Richmond, VA
422-MechTechs, Richmond, VA
433-Firebirds, Flourtown, PA
539-Titans, Richmond, VA
623-Ohmies, Vienna, VA
836-Robo Bees, Leonardtown, MD
888-Robotiators, Glenelg-MD
1111-The Power Hawks, Edgewater, MD
1123-AIM Robotics, Alexandria, VA
1195-Vipers, Seat Pleasant, MD
1389-Team Robit, Bethesda, MD
1418- Vae Victus, Falls Church, VA
1446-Robo Knights, Washington, DC
1629-Garrett Coalition, McHenry, MD
1685-Bad Karma, Worcester, MA
1687-The Dorks, Worcester, MA

VEX: Dave Lavery will be running a table with VEX robots for the public to operate.

FLL: Local FLL teams will be running a display, coordinated by Mark Heil.

RoboMom

21-08-2005, 17:42

We are cooking up a special award to be presented by Shaun Robinson from Access Hollywood on Saturday.

Has FIRST EVER been on Access Hollywood? :cool:

Many thanks to the 50 volunteers traveling from 8 states and DC to help us out next weekend and to the 25 teams, some driving from Mass!!!! to participate.

Bcahn836

21-08-2005, 17:48

I can't wait until next weekend, it is going to be alot of fun. . . :D

Liz C

22-08-2005, 16:11

RoboMom

22-08-2005, 18:55

http://www.nbc4.com/digitaledgeexpo/index.html includes the floorplan for the Expo, and updates on the various presentations.

Wetzel

22-08-2005, 20:52

I dunno if being right next to the food court will be a good thing or a bad thing.

A general word to the wise though. The pits look like they are in a high traffic area. Keeping someone in your pit to 1)answer questions and 2)watch your stuff is probably a good idea and needed here more than at a regional.

Wetzel

Crebb

23-08-2005, 11:44

Team 384's pit psoition is a little out of order from the rest. We should be in R9, but we're in R24.

RoboMom

23-08-2005, 12:29

Team 384's pit psoition is a little out of order from the rest. We should be in R9, but we're in R24.

We won't have your final pit placement until you show up. Ignore the highlights for now.

StephLee

24-08-2005, 21:13

I'm so looking forward to this weekend! I have a volleyball tournament on Saturday I can't miss, but I've finally found out I can go on Sunday!! I can't wait to see everyone there!

Bcahn836

24-08-2005, 21:15

I got volunteered to help take the robot and tools up to the competition on Friday. woo hoo.

brandy836

24-08-2005, 21:18

Brad, show some real enthusiasm.

And trust me Steph, you’re not the only on who’s really excited about this weekend. It’s going to be great.

phrontist

24-08-2005, 21:51

Are we supposed to or able to bring our robot down Friday night?

Bcahn836

24-08-2005, 21:54

As posted above by Robomom

Friday, August 26:
• No load in after 4:30 pm.
• 8am-4:30pm at the Load DOCK doors.
• Please load in on Friday if at all possible. Saturday will be crowded and tight turnaround time.

OZ_341

24-08-2005, 22:31

From the crew of 341 "Miss Daisy", GOOD LUCK to everyone in DC this weekend!!

We can't wait to PLAY!!!

Joe Matt

24-08-2005, 22:35

Wish I could be there and see all my old friends on 384 and 365, but thus is life, especially college life. Xp

RoboMom

26-08-2005, 07:43

For those of you in the area not attending, look for FIRST in live interviews this afternoon (Fri) with Teams 1446, 1195, 422 & 1389 and look for us live during the opening ceremonies tomorrow morning at 9 on NBC4. Team007's Moonraker will be delivering the huge scissors for the ribbon cutting in their "ice cream bucket" and I'll be rounding up other robots for this segment.

phrontist

26-08-2005, 16:49

DUCKIE

27-08-2005, 12:40

Ducky here... posting directly from the Capital Clash. [Yeah Geek-Squad Van w/ internet access!]

Despite running a little behind... things are going well down here.

Will update more later if I get a chance.

Bcahn836

27-08-2005, 13:09

I am at the capital clash now, having a blast. There are alot of good exhibits and lots of great robots. This so far has been an awesome and fun competition. More updates to come. . .

phrontist

27-08-2005, 17:37

So far, I've seen:

Bcahn (the guy in the red had, short chat)
Dorienne (I think it was her... haven't talked to her)
Little Lavery (with whom I had an interesting conversation about radio interference and the various merits of traditional versus "jester" or Mechanum holomic)
Dave Lavery
Bill Fred (shook his hand, heard his standup bit)
Jeff Seaton (of course)
Tons of MOE students... everywhere... I think the camera techs had to adjust the color balance on their account ;)
The infamous Heidi, from whom I received the latest (and greatest) "That's Pimp" Button!
Paul Klobern, current UFH honoree...

Can't wait till tommorrow! We were doing quite well until we had some insane motor heat issues (with breakers tripping as a result of the associated high current draw). We ascribe this to our abuse of the motors (we had the robot "run" a 3k race) but we're replacing them tommorrow.

For those of you who haven't seen 116's drive, it really does, as dave says "dance on it's toes". We brought some new members along who were quite impressed.

Vex too is really neat, I got a chance to drive one of the demo robots 116 brought down.

This competition is odd, in that the audience is really (almost dangerously) close to the feild. I went up to the driver station and a group of spectators was standing in it. I talked to another driver (MOE maybe?) who had been asked by a spectator if they could drive during a match. :D

Dorienne

27-08-2005, 18:30

MissInformation

27-08-2005, 19:05

The infamous Heidi, from whom I received the latest (and greatest) "That's Pimp" Button!

Oh cool! I've always wanted to be infamous!

And there will be more "Pimp" buttons in the Vex area tomorrow, for those who would like one...

Dillard, if you're reading this, I want you to know that Billfred tried to frame you by giving me a bag of peppermints and saying they were from you (knowing full well that I would say you should be disqualified from the Caption Contest for attempted murder).

And my favorite comment from today was from Big Mike who said he hoped Dave never allowed me to work on the FIRST game committee because the game I designed for the Vex table was evil... :p

Heidi

KathieK

27-08-2005, 21:14

There are some photos online at www.nbc4.com (http://www.nbc4.com/index.html) - go to the Online Extras section underneath the weather section and click on Expo Slideshow.

Greg Needel

28-08-2005, 15:26

we are in the finals folks

357, 365, 1195 vs 888, 422, 1446

right now we are on a 10 min break but soon to be followed by the finals

Joe Matt

28-08-2005, 15:40

we are in the finals folks

357, 365, 1195 vs 888, 422, 1446

right now we are on a 10 min break but soon to be followed by the finals

This is going to be good. :)

melitami

28-08-2005, 15:44

I was there most of the day yesterday, and major appreciation needs to be given to the 5 senior mentors running it, Mike Wade for the field, and all the awesome volunteers.

Hope everyone there is having as great a time as I did yesterday!

Billfred

28-08-2005, 15:45

Finals Match 1:

888/422/1446: 32
357/365/1195: 57

Finals Match 2:

888/422/1446: 35
357/365/1195: 46

Most Promising Rookie Drive Team: Team 357
Gracious Professionalism Award: Team 365
Against All Odds Award: Team 1446
Best Autonomous Mode: Team 007

Bcahn836

28-08-2005, 21:17

Overall the competition was great. Our team ended up 11-2-0, which to us is a very good day. I would like to thank teams 339 and 1687 for their help in the finals, I also would like to thank all the teams for their gracious professionalism, and most importantly to all the volunteers that made the event possible.

karinka13

28-08-2005, 22:46

The competition was wonderful! Thanks so much to everyone who put it together and helped out!

Dorienne

28-08-2005, 23:10

007 would like to thank Teams 1111 and 341 for being such wonderful alliances. It was great working with you all; let's hope we end up together again soon!

And thank you to all the volunteers and teams that put this competition together. It was one of the best off-seasons I've been to!

Billfred

29-08-2005, 00:27

It was a blast--I just got back home, and I'm so worn out I'm surprised I'm even typing this out tonight. (By the way, this also means you'll just have to wait until later today for the caption contest. You'll live.)

I've got to thank a few people...
Mike Wade, for the ever-so-great NASA field that worked almost flawlessly all weekend
Jeff Wetzel and his family, who put me up (and put up with me) for the whole weekend
Jenny and Dee, for if it weren't for them, this would've been another boring weekend in Columbia.
All of 116, who opened up and welcomed a functional stranger (well, except for those who read CD) into their camp for a few nights
The mentors, who put up with my cheesy mentor round emceeing
Jeff Seaton, whose emceeing rocked the house for two straight days
All the other volunteers and all the teams, who made for a great competition and a darn good time.

And no matter what you read in the caption contest, there is no video of me snoring.

Wetzel

29-08-2005, 02:36

And no matter what you read in the caption contest, there is no video of me snoring.Thats what he thinks...

I had fun. The best part for me was seeing a team in the pits that got it. It put a smile on my face that wouldn't go away. :D
That and getting to drive the robot for three matches after the competition ended.

Wetzel

RoboMom

29-08-2005, 07:06

Maybe it was just because I had no brain synapses left to fire, but those mentors-only-driving-the-robots rounds made me laugh so hard, I was crying. I hope someone was taking pics because it was quite a sight seeing all those mentors lined up. I look over and it appears that Dave Lavery sacrificed his youngest as she is the human player, next to Wayne Cokely. Heidi assured me that Dave gave the ok.

For those of you who weren't there, this weekend was a "show" as well as a competition. The awards ended (because we were asked to do them at 4) but we still had to keep the show going. So we played games.

Billfred

29-08-2005, 11:20

I look over and it appears that Dave Lavery sacrificed his youngest as she is the human player, next to Wayne Cokely. Heidi assured me that Dave gave the ok.

Just as a thought, wouldn't Dave's daughter violate the basis of the mentor round? I mean, it's pretty rare for someone that young to be anything but a precollege student.

I guess, however, that after reading Dave's page on FIRSTwiki (http://www.firstwiki.org/Dave_Lavery), she could be classified as a tor-mentor, and would thus be eligible.

(Hmm...an elementary/middle school match at an offseason. Yikes.)

RoboMom

29-08-2005, 11:33

phrontist

29-08-2005, 12:03

I think Dave was tired after, instead of playing with VEX bots in the garage, played with VEX bots with 30,000 people asking him VEX bot questions for 16 hours. He kept muttering something about "eviscerating" someone....

Heidi seemed to be doing most of the talking. Actually, after talking with 29,000 people, I think she lost her voice. Or maybe Dave "eviscerated" it....

Poor Dave... he seemed to be quite tense at times, I think 116 had unexplained drive issues, possibly due to faulty radio equipment, something a few teams reported on the rightmost red playstation. At one point 116 was spinning about it's center at an impressive speed, whilst the drivers (appropriately, given the proximity of the audience) freaked out.

When it was working (practically the whole time) it was a site to behold. "Lil Lavery" (what is his real name?) gave me a rundown on that amazing drive train, and it's even more impressive in real life.

Crebb

29-08-2005, 12:25

Team 116 was having some problems with the drive train and would have to reset during the match. We were paired with them for the elimination rounds and they did pretty well. Thanks Teams 1629 and 116 for all the help.
Poor Dave... he seemed to be quite tense at times, I think 116 had unexplained drive issues, possibly due to faulty radio equipment, something a few teams reported on the rightmost red playstation. At one point 116 was spinning about it's center at an impressive speed, whilst the drivers (appropriately, given the proximity of the audience) freaked out.

When it was working (practically the whole time) it was a site to behold. "Lil Lavery" (what is his real name?) gave me a rundown on that amazing drive train, and it's even more impressive in real life.

RoboMom

29-08-2005, 14:11

To all the Capital Clash teams and volunteers:

NBC4 is looking for additional footage from The Capital Clash. This could be footage from the field, or from the pits. If you have footage you would like to contribute, contact Mike Wade at:

Michael Wade

NASA - GSFC

Bld 5 Rm C26 Code 547

Greenbelt rd.

Greenbelt, Md. 20771

E-Mail Michael.Wade@nasa.gov

Ph 301-286-9101

Cell Ph 443-983-0279

Wayne C.

29-08-2005, 17:23

I look over and it appears that Dave Lavery sacrificed his youngest as she is the human player, next to Wayne Cokely.
.

Contrary to the protestations of some of my team mates I don't demand human sacrifices...... I just look mean I guess?

WC :cool:

Mike Schroeder

29-08-2005, 20:27

Greg Needel

29-08-2005, 21:04

I think me and Greg Needel did pretty good driving the 25 bot for the first mentor round, but when we went up again, and i got Paul Kloberg to drive our robot, it was a little scary although I should thank Dee, Jenny and Karen for trying to put that tetra on our robot from the auto loader for us :-p

to fill in the other side of the story i got "thrown" off of 25 and went to 116 which made the fact that we beat them in that match so much sweeter.....

Carol

01-09-2005, 14:04

I just uploaded a bunch of pics in the Picture Gallery from the Capital Clash (also known as the NBC4 Digital Expo - look there.) My apologies to JENNY, as I called her JEANNIE in the caption (I was rushing to upload these on my lunch break; rushing => errors)

The pictures are rather MOEcentric, as I was taking shots for the team's use, but got nice ones of the other teams there as well.

MissInformation

05-09-2005, 00:04

Eric and I have finally gone through most of our summer photos, and have posted them here. (http://www.invisiblerobot.com/robotics/)

These photos include the Capital Clash and IRI competitions. My photos from the Capital Clash mainly deal with the VEX table, while Eric's covers the rest.

Heidi

Billfred

05-09-2005, 06:26

I just flipped through the galleries for the Clash. I'm so glad that Eric got a good number of pictures of the mentor match. I mean, who can resist caption contest material a great picture like this:

http://www.invisiblerobot.com/robotics/robot_c71b/index/p8284225.html

...although now I'll have to tell my mom that her camera is famous in 116 circles. (I lost the link to that one. Drat.)

ahecht

06-06-2006, 10:47

Is there any word on whether this will be held again this year?

Wetzel

06-06-2006, 12:38

Is there any word on whether this will be held again this year?

It will. I was given a date for it, but it is on my laptop which is in for repairs. I'm sure there will be more information in the next month or so.

Wetzel

Greg Needel

06-06-2006, 13:00

the event is going to be on Sept 16 and 17 location yet to be determined.