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Originally Posted by George1083
Um... Andy? Dave? You seem to be up to speed already... Care to clue the rest of us in?
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INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- FIRST, an organization focused on promoting engineering to high school students, was purchased today by Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay.
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Wow, I am all shaken up reading this.
I really don't know what to feel about this. On one hand, it says a lot about FIRST when it is ran by a non-profit organization. The purpose of this program is to inspire students into the field of science and engineering. As a non-profit organization, FIRST shows the world that all the money and resources it receives go back to the students and the future of the world. Other than organizations like doctor without borders, I can't think of any other images more appropriate for showing the world you really mean it.
On the other hand, it has always been difficult for FIRST to function with an extremely small staff, and limited budget. Lots of difficulties faced at regionals are simply the lack of funding, and lack of regional support. With the Colts purchasing FIRST, it could potentially introduce FIRST to the sports realm, and bring in a lots of money. Imagine the possibilities! Regionals at all the football stadiums, competition broadcast on ESPN, and lots of FIRST merchandise pumped out from the NFL merchandise machinery. It will be like instant fame over night!
I suppose its useless debating it now. It cannot change what has happened. We simply have to deal with the fact that it happened, and deal with it as it comes. I suppose if FIRST stick to its goal of inspiration to students, the ends really do justify the means. I mean, they are not hurting anyone with the purchase. I am sure once everything is on track, the community will have the strength to shape the future of FIRST to however they see best.
Mean while, I am going to sit back and enjoy the ride. Its going to be interesting watching the speech delivered by someone other than Dean this year. Maybe our new homework assignments is to help sell season tickets to some of the best teams in FIRST. I sure want season tickets to all the regionals the most competitive teams are going to be at.
Mean while, I will be handing out autographed photo at the Championship event for $19.99 a copy signed by me on my famous chief delphi forum red hair picture. I will take advance order if you send them to me 1 week before championship.
Oh, by the way, what's the deal with April 1st? Is it some sort of holiday?