[Alex Cormier]

Firstly ill start off saying that all of the previous posts have been excellent and they all prove Andy's point.

I too like how open the FIRST community is on the appreciation of the higher knowledge level of these "FIRST idols" like; Andy Baker, Paul C, Raul, Karthik and many others. I have had a few chances to talk to Andy Baker about robotics and other things in general. It has always been a great conversation. The first time i was told that i would be able to meet him, i was excited and couldn't wait. The first time was when Mr. Baker and Mr. Koors visited Rochester for the R3 competition. I had a great time and the knowledge level of the two of them is phenomenal. I also found myself thinking, what would i say to start off the conversation and what's some topics would spark an intelligent conversation with the two of them.

I remember one other thing from R3, as we were in the pits fixing the robot as usual, these two little kids came up to Greg N. and asked for his autograph, i remember this solely because he told me shortly afterwords that he was amazed at the kids wanted his autograph and all. As i saw him talking to the kids, they were very excited and amazed at what the robot did and how well it looked, also Greg was basically melting because he was so happy to make a kids day. I too have had that feeling to me recently and it feels great. Gets me thinking possibly being a teacher later in life.

One other thing i love is how the "Top FIRSTers"; Dean, Woodie and such come up to others like M. Krass and start a conversation just like any other person would do. It would be an amazing feeling to have them choose to talk to you other then the other hundereds of people and it's a great feeling.