Point well raised Karthik and David Kelly. For once we seem to agree on something =). This situation has happened before on a variety of issues, from practice playing fields to sponsor's automobiles that a team can utilize. I think Karthik summed it up so I am not going to rehash it again. What I will do is leave open the suggestion, which if FIRST could do would be an incredible, incredible feat, and bring worldwide attention.
Without bringing too much information about politics and the current situation in the middle east into play, it would be absolutely beautiful if FIRST could somehow arrange a "peace" or "unity" tournament with teams from Palestine, Egypt, Turkey, or other primarily Islamic countries in the region. I am positive that there are other initiatives like this going on, not with robotics but with education and various grassroots groups, but FIRST has a real opportunity on its hands. If it were to earmark funds from various corporate sponsors, and approach, or be approached by a team from one of those countries, it'd be a perfect opportunity to show yet again that GP has a role to play that is not just within the FIRST competition. Imagine if that were pulled off. This is a huge dream at the moment, but the unity and stability of the region could be improved if some sort of exchange program was set up. Obviously there are huge logistical problems, but without going too much into detail about politics and the like, just imagine.
"I have a dream..."
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Originally Posted by Karthik
This is an attitude that shows up frequently that really bothers me.
If a team can raise lots of money, they have the right to spend it any way they want. Some teams use their excess money to generously help other teams. While other teams use this to benefit their own students. Both options are very noble in my opinion.
I for one hope many North American teams take the journey to Israel. It would be an inspirational trip for all, and it would help strengthen FIRST worldwide. That seems like a more than worthwhile expense to me.
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