Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

This is correct. None of the regional registrations go to pay for the events. It all goes to FIRST for other expenses (which are legitimate expenses I might add) Regional directors DO raise all the funds to run the regional. That is why teams should be very appreciative of the sponsors of the events. They paid for it.

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

I wouldn't expect FIRST to come on chief to defend themselves, and them not doing so doesn't prove anything.

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

Please, in the future, let's go to a lottery system for both limited FIRSTChoice KOP parts AND for Regional Registration. The current system is NOT "fair". If you have a good internet connection, fast fingers, and most importantly, no other pressing demands on your time at the particular moment that the thing goes "live" then you are on the "same" playing field with others. If, however, you are traveling, using a slow connection, or - gasp - have a job where you are not in control of your schedule, you are at a distinct disadvantage.

FIRSTChoice was not created to allow teams to "be equipped as they would like to be". It is a relatively good system to distribute items that are donated (THAN YOU VERY MUCH SUPPLIERS!) in quantities fewer than the total team number. It also helps to reduce the amount of stuff that is sent to teams in the KOP that they don't need or use.

A lottery for registration for regionals and FIRSTChoice KOP parts would be much better and more respectful of people's time.

Having said all of that, I very much hope that FIRSTChoice goes live when I am actually able to place an order. Considering the holidays and travel, that in itself is looking like a lottery...

- Mr. Van
Coach, Robodox

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

For what it is worth, it is my understanding that FIRST employees are prohibited from posting on ChiefDelphi. I was told that by a high-ranking FIRST employee 2 years ago.

In my opinion, FIRST is generally in favor of ChiefDelphi but needs to have corporate control over their communications paths, a concept I greatly support.

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

I'd really like to believe (on the basis that Andymark and FIRST itself are likely shut down) that it won't happen on the days immediately surrounding the holidays. Obviously this doesn't help people who are traveling a few days in advance, or taking long trips.

I know FIRST and AndyMark are smart enough to not announce on the 24th (or the 31st) that it's open in 24 hours....

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

It's probably for the better. The FRC blog, twitter, and facebook pages are easier to control and get the correct information out when necessary. Employees with CD accounts would probably add an air of confusion here.

It's why it works when Andy Baker posts about AM. It just works.

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

Haven't heard that myself... a FIRST employee as a FIRST Senior Mentor.

Might be different for folks at HQ.

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

Um, yeah, I was thinking of HQ folks, not field organization. :o

And, I may be wrong. I frequently am. :eek:

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

Is Frank at HQ, because I'm pretty sure he's posted on CD before

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

Frank has referenced Chief Delphi in his blogs. I have not seen any of his posts on Chief Delphi though.

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

Bill Miller posted on CD once, after he was no longer working for FIRST.
Any direct post from Frank here would be a parody account at best.

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

FIRST is required to submit Form 990 to the IRS annually. It is a public record. You can view the "US FOUNDATION FOR THE INSPIRATION & RECOGNITION SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY" IRS Form 990 for 2012 and earlier through sites such as guidestar.org

As you might expect, all teams receive "fair market value" for the "Kit of parts and program participation" for the program fees paid.

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

I can see that this would be a problem for some people, but not for everyone. Perhaps I'm spoiled by being on a team with half a dozen mentors. Do you not have any other adults on your team capable of placing an order in your absence?

Re: FIRST Choice Sunday redux
 

Put me firmly in this camp. Claims that the current system is more "fair" than a lottery are using a very skewed definition of "fair," as far as I can tell.

That said, there's nothing to be gained sitting here and griping about the fact that the website doesn't work (except for stress and unhappiness), so I think this'll be my first and last post in this thread. Hope it comes up soon.