Security at regionals.

[nick reynolds]

Carolyn... Let me "enlighten" you to a personal expierience that happened at our Regional 2 years ago in Hartford CT. Our Team had the H.E.R.O. booth (Helping Every Robot Organization ). We had a booth full of Spare parts and Materials and these Parts were available to any team that was in need. Our motto was "Need a part Take a part, Got a Part Give a Part".
We found out that many of the new teams were compeeting on a Bare Budget and could not afford Tools so we set up a Tool Loan System. I personaly Bought $1000 worth of new Tools for this use. Every Tool Borrowed was immidiatly returned, we never lost a single item.
For three days every thing went well, in fact the Idea was so popular that we were noticed by the Judges for our effort. We were awarded the Team Spirit Award.
While we were on stage being awarded the Team Spirit Trophy some one decided to Take our Tools, The Tools were In a Very large Trunk and took Two People to move it. Every Team member at our Regional benifited from our H.E.R.O. booth and I dont believe for a minute that it was taken by one of them.
At that same competition one team lost a LapTop, another lost cameras so what kind of CRAPPY words would you use to describe a THIEF.
I dont mince words. The whole Idea of my post was to inform and remind. When your at the competition its easy to get caught up in the Hype and Excitement and things do get left out for all to see. Not every one is as Trusting as you and its great that you have never been a victim.
My post was a reminder to the older and more Expierienced Teams and a Heads up to the Rookie Teams.
Accusing me and others of having "HALF A BRAIN" for leaving Valuable stuff out was not called for and totaly out of order, However if you would like to soften the taste this left in my mouth then I would be happy to except your Check for my Personal losses ($1000.00).
Nick237