[sammyjalex]

I want to give a big thank you to all of the students and volunteers involved with making this regional what it was. The community of teams at the New York City regional and that of New York City FIRST is really quite unique. I am thankful that I have so graciously been welcomed into this loving community. We always talk about a FIRST community of gracious professionals but I believe that really being able to see this is another thing entirely.

Teams walked away from the field proud of the way their robot performed as well as how did their opponent in the match and their friend. It isn't uncommon at all at this regional to see students having long interested conversations to students on another team. I think this is especially wonderful. The experience in communication and outreach in which these students engage extends to their interaction with the JFLL, FLL and FTC students also present at this very special event. I admire the overall courteous behavior that I saw time and time again at this regional, not only in words but in action. These students help others carry their robot when they struggle until that confidence is developed for those students to end the regional proud that they proved something to themselves. Even in elements field dis-assembly, groups of students were eager to be involved in one more way. As I always love to see between students involved in FIRST programs, these students always demonstrate such an open exchange of assistance to others. Climate is the word that I would use. What a friendly and helping climate.

From the field perspective, where I spent my time, I think it would have been very difficult for the movement between each piece of the puzzle to go more smoothly and I, again, want to extend a big thank you to all of those who volunteered for this. Being on the field was a joy from the volunteer staff through each student. I hope everyone who came out felt a similar sense of satisfaction with the event this year. I know I had a fantastic time.

Congratulations to all teams who participated and made this event great.

Best and I hope to see you all again next year,

Sam