Midwest Regional Inspirations

[Brian Beatty]

Here are some of my Inspirations from the Midwest Regional:

1) Raul Olivera; Raul and the guys every year do the impossible. This year is no exception. What a magnificent machine. He has two badly bruised fingers from the robot construction. He was really sick the whole competition, but did not miss any of it. Raul, you're an animal. You inspire me.

2) Dan Green; The energy and enthusiasm of a teenager. You cheered for two days non-stop. You inspire me.

3) Al Skierkiewicz; Al is a technical genius, although he will not admit to it. For 10 years, he has given of himself for anybody that needed help. Technical as well as motivational. You inspire me.

4) Frank Toussaint (hope the spelling is right) Frank has been helping FIRST for as long as I remember. He has volunteered for at least two Regionals this year. He is one of those people that doesn't say much, but is there every year doing a job. He is there because he believes in the mission of FIRST. You inspire me.

5) Ron from team 107. Ron is 72 years old and has given of his time and shop to spearhead team 107. He is the nicest person you will ever want to meet and has kind words every year we talk. If you new kids want to know what FIRST is about, go talk to Ron for about 10 minutes. You inspire me.

Enough for now. Just wanted to say a few things to get everyone's thinking back on track.

Brian Beatty