FIRST TV Special!

[Andy Grady]

I thought this was a great subject when it first came up, still do. But sometimes I read the posts and I really sense this "we are elite" feeling. What is it that makes FIRST too good for funny or even edgy network television? What kind of reputation is there for a show like the Simpsons to ruin? Sure, FIRST is a respectable organization, and some people do not want to see it become just another FOX special. But fact of the matter is, its not about reputation, its not about the image, its about inspiration. Getting the word out, is one of the main factors in trying to get teams, kids, people to inspire. I don't care if you have to put FIRST on Jerry Springer, if it gets the word out, its good press for our purpose. The more people of all types and groups are exposed to FIRST, the more people that get involved, and the more people that end up inspired. That is what this is all about. I feel the same way about Battlebots. Battlebots is the same as FIRST in many ways. It can be used as a tool to inspire. It is just in a different format. We are in a great program...but we are not better than everyone else. Lets hit the mainstream, lets get the name out. Only then can FIRST continue to grow.

Peace,
Andy Grady