Ericka's departure

[-Lori]

I don't know how many of you know Ericka Smith, the Teams Coordinator at FIRST....but for those of you that do.....I thought I'd let you know that she has given her resignation. Her last day at FIRST will be the end of the week next week...I'm not sure if it will be Thursday or Friday. She begins a new job on Monday, November 5th.

So...show her your support and send her a congratulatory email (if you'd like)....at ericka@usfirst.org

I personally know that she has established some really great friendships with some of you and she would really love to hear from you!

She'll miss you all for sure!

[Dave...]

Anton posted a note stating that "FIRST is dying."

While I do not wish to elaborate on this conjecture, I do feel as though the personal touch is diminishing. It is different to receive emails from frcteams@usfirst, and not directly from Lori, and it will be different to have Ericka's absence.

For the veteran teams who have known Lori and Ericka over the years, we are all left with an uneasy feeling of who still remains within the FIRST family. Lori has assured us that FIRST is left within "more than capable" hands, but whose hands are these? It will take time to learn the names and the people who are now working so hard behind the scenes for us.

Lori and Ericka...we wish you all the best. Your hard work and dedication over the years are greatly appreciated. We will miss you dearly.

On behalf of myself and Team #5,
Dave...

[Ken Loyd]

Lori and Ericka,

Thank you!!!!!

Ken Loyd
Team #64