[Jon K.]

Even though I was only able to referee for Sunday (my team was competing at RIDE), I want to congratulate everyone on all their amazing successes at Southington! I only heard positive things about the whole event from everyone I have talked to! I know we as a ref crew definitely had some hard calls to make as the matches were very intense. Congrats 195, 558 and 999 on the win, as well as 230, 2836 and 4055 on the finalist. Also, congrats to everyone on 558 for the District Event Chairman's win. I know first hand how much everyone on your team does, and it is a well deserved honor that was given to you here. Also, congrats to my dad, Jack in the Hat, for receiving Volunteer of the Year! Even though my father was recognized for his outstanding efforts in the FIRST community this year, he by far is not the only volunteer to go above and beyond. Thank you to all of the volunteers this year! Out of all the years I have been involved in FIRST, since 2000 as an FLL kid, I know this year has been difficult on all of us in New England. Just like we endure the long winters, we will persevere through it! I am so excited to see so many new faces on these volunteer crews!