[Rosiebotboss]

Wow, Andy. That is a mouthful of a post. But, a much needed one. I'm willing to bet each and every one of us has at one time or another been in the situation you described and shot ourselves in the foot. I know I have!!

And because I have shot my mouth off occasisonally, I have learned NOT to do it. (On a regular basis, anyway) It is up to us as mentors to teach and pass on to the students the correct way to approach people. Whether they be leaders in politics, business or FIRST.

Last night, John Burns, the tech-ed teacher for Rosie, and I were talking. He related a story to me about a conversation he had had with a future sponosr (we will be adding the company name in about a month) and said one of her heroes was Dean Kamen.

Now, this gal is the Director of a division of a major defense contractor who already supports a number of FIRST teams. John said to her, "Would you like to meet him? He opens his house up to 700 of his closest friends every year at kick-off?" Had he shot himself in the foot by criticizing her company and the weaponary they make for the DOD, 1. Rosie would not have another major sponsor coming on board, 2. her personal goal of not having the chance to meet Dean would not be realized (possibly), 3. she would probably would not look favorable on FIRST teams again.

So, yes, it is VERY important to make good first impressions. It is our duty to convey this lesson to all........