[ebarker]

Hey, Don R. - It's time to jump in and do one of those "class-action letters" to Dean via FIRST.

Needing some damage control !!! This is not a light matter as a lot of funding comes into the FIRST system for workforce development.

I grew up in a tough labor intensive environment. I totally understand what that environment is like and the issues and how someone can get offended. I chose not to take offense but it can be tough for someone to pass on this.

I grew up farming. Now I'm an engineer.

I'm not sure I have the intestinal fortitude and smarts to be a farmer. It is way too hard.

Someone mentioned Mike Rowe. I have a recommendation to add to the "class-action letter" and I am perfectly serious about this. Dean needs to bring Mike Rowe onto the cast of characters at FIRST.

Since starting his show "Dirty Jobs" he has had an epiphany about the tough jobs in the world and has become advocate and promoter for those students that want to pursue the tough jobs that are out there.

For example, I for one am not willing to scrambling up the steel and concrete structures that these engineers design.

Ed