Judging of Woodie Flowers Award

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Originally Posted by Joe Johnson

Let me say, in the interest of full disclosure that I covet this award.
There is no award that FIRST gives out that I believe is more rightly awarded year in and year out.

I am serious. Every year, I hold my breath as the award is anounced. Every year, I cross my fingers, hoping that my students decided to nominate me (they don't tell us who they nominate) and that their nomination was the winner. And EVERY YEAR, I scream with real emotion, "Worthy, Worthy, Worthy!" when I hear the name of the actual winner. Joe J.

Joe,
I cannot agree with you more! (Mea Culpa, Mea Culpa) The Woodie Flower's Award is important in that it tells us we are doing a good job. I consider myself blessed to know or have met most of the recipients. To be close to this group and discuss FIRST issues with them, is one of the treasures of being involved as an adult. I would also like to comment on the recent practice of having previous recipients present during the award ceremony. It must add an incredible emotion to an already charged ceremony. It reminds me of Eagle Scout ceremonies, where all Eagle scouts in the audience are asked to congratulate the newest member of the group.
I, like you, are in awe that each year's winner is so deserving. I can remember the emotion I felt when Andy Baker was announced last year, and how great it felt to know Andy and many people on his team. My only thought was to get a chance to congratulate him as soon as I could. I hope one day to do the same for you and any of the fifty others I can think of right now who are deserving.