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Posted by Michael Martus.   [PICTURE: SAME | NEW | HELP]


Coach on team #47, Chief Delphi, from Pontiac Central H.S. and Delphi Automotives Systems.

Posted on 8/2/2000 3:28 PM MST


In Reply to: Is the Chairman's Award fixed? I believe so..... posted by Vinny Bushemi on 8/2/2000 2:47 PM MST:




Chief Delphi is very offended by these comments as I am sure are the other winners and finalists.

We have won the Chairman's Award in 1997 and were a Finalist this past year, 2000.

We have a year around FIRST Program and have been responsible for many of the FIRST Programs you enjoy today.

Example:

Where do you think the Lego League idea came from ... Our CADET program was the pioneer and model that demonstrated the importance of involving youth at a younger age..

Also what about the Chief Delphi Invitational that has exposed many schools to FIRST who are now FIRST Teams. Michigan is one of the fastest growing regions. Look at the quanity of teams.

We mentor many FIRST Teams ( Rookie Camp ) each year and take a proactive role in the development of FIRST and the KIT OF PARTS.... where do you think the rotating light idea came from last year?

And what about this web site, an innovator from the start pushing teams to be stronger and fostering communication.

Add to that our Summer Intern Program, 9th Grade Challenge, Scholarship Program and full year mentorship of our students by Delphi and you only have the tip of the iceberg! We have many other unique programs and activities.

Now here is the real problem! When they announce a Chairmans winner they only give a few words about all the great things they are doing. Our team has been in FIRST for 5 years and I can say in our opinion each Chairmans winner was very deserved of the honor.

Yes, there are many great teams that deserve this honor, yours included. However, with the limitation of 1 winner, many great teams do not get recognized for their great efforts.

Take a few moments and contact the winners and finalists. Ask them for a copy of their chairmans award to review. I am sure that they will share. See what they are doing. I think you will gain a new respect for the award winners.

I am sorry you are so frustrated with the system. If you have suggestions for change, the FIRST Team Forum is coming up soon. Present your solutitions there, it is your time to be heard.