[Ryan F.]

It seems like these threads are popping up more and more here on Chief Delphi. Almost always, they follow this same format.

1. Person from team X notices that a team/teams who appear very financially stable are receiving extra money/grants and wonder why they should be receiving such when so many other teams aren’t able to cope with the financial demands FIRST.
2. Your normal banter occurs
3. Someone believing that it’s nobody’s business to address the financial well being
of other teams comes on and makes a bold and often insulting post.
4. More people jump on the bandwagon and add their rude posts to the mix
5. Nothing happens. Nothing is resolved and people learn that it’s
not worth it to point out such issues.

I think both sides of this issue really need to think before they post. I’m going to be bias here in slanting to those pointing out these financial incidences. To me, nothing rude, insulting, inconsiderate or misguided was originally posted. Simply the issue was brought to light that teams who did not fit the qualifications of the scholarship award were recipients. This, as many people have not liked was most likely pointed out by someone on a team who is financially struggling. They have pointed out things such as the recipient teams being signed up for multiple regionals and quite apparently being some of the most financially sound teams in FIRST. One may challenge this statement asking “How do I know their financial situation”. Though it is not everyone’s business, I am sure if you were to see their level of sponsorship it would far surpass the amount many teams are dealing with, barely being able to afford another year.

The main factor that bothers me is this. In all fairness, how many veteran teams found it appropriate to apply for a 1’st or 2’nd year teams financial help? I’m sure there would be swarms of other teams applying for these scholarships if they were open to everyone. Do you really think 461, 93 and 71 are the only teams who would like to attend multiple regionals? Many teams out of their 1’st or 2’nd year that are facing the prospect of folding due to financial concerns may have seriously considered these regionals if they knew this was a possible way for them to stay alive.

I personally don’t think that the level of financing of many of these teams is my concern, but many people, myself included, are obviously wondering why these financially sound teams were the ones recieving the financial help.

Congratulations to all who got the awards.

This thread can be constructive…people have to realize that the views of others are not insults directed at them and should be civil when posting.

-Ryan