[Natchez]

As a Houstonian, a Lone Star Regional committee member, and part of the team that submitted the 2004-2006 Championship Proposal to FIRST, I would like to plea that the CD community quit bashing Houston.

Although the 2003 Championships were a success, Houston was truly embarrassed with the problems that could have been resolved with a little more attention by the event organizers. In defense of FIRST, they were on a short fuse to get the event planned. In defense of the Houston FIRST Community, not one Lone Star Committee member or local team leader was invited to be on the 2003 Championship Planning Committee.

Houston is a great city with world class facilities. In our proposal, we had solutions to all of FIRST concerns (food, ramps, hotels, etc.) but we could never overcome the negative wake that was left from the 2003 Championships. Along with offering Reliant Stadium again, we offered Minute Made Park as an option which solved FIRST's concern about "green space," pits close to the fields and nearby hotels.

For a true perspective of Houston, please ask those that attend the Lone Star Regional for their opinion. In Houston, we know that the teams are our customers and we strive to make them VERY happy.

Concerning Atlanta, CONGRATULATIONS! You have a beautiful city with beautiful facilities.

Thanks for listening to my plea,
Lucien