A mentor perspective on what happened in FIRST Israel

[DavidGitz]

Originally Posted by 1075guy

Excellent post. Not being there, I can't be entirely sure of what was done and what wasnt done, but with more and more people posting their take on it, the rest of the FIRST community can get a better idea of what really went on.

It seems to me FIRST Israel has some major issues that need to be worked out, and I think it is probably prudent for FIRST HQ to get involved.

Who wants to volunteer at FIRST Israel next Year? I Do

[gvarndell]

Originally Posted by DavidGitz

Who wants to volunteer at FIRST Israel next Year? I Do

Personally I'm waiting for an SOS from FIRST Bermuda -- if there is such a thing...

[Jon236]

Originally Posted by DavidGitz

Who wants to volunteer at FIRST Israel next Year? I Do

David, we look forward to seeing you there! The volunteers that put on the Israel Regional are promised a lot of hard work, no sleep, but lots of hummus!

It was obvious to me, as Judge Advisor, that for the most part, as in the US and elsewhere, that FIRST Teams in Israel 'get it'. Their contributions to their school, their community and to the principles of FIRST are truly outstanding. We were able to recognize many of these teams with awards; but many other teams also deserve recognition for maintaining their spirit and demonstrating GP, despite the difficult circumstances.

The fact that the vast majority of Israeli teams understand the principles of FIRST is due in no small part to the dedication of Alisha MacIntyre and Yaarit Levy. They work basically 24/7 during Build Season. During the competition, we stayed at the field to work out the technical problems. It also says a lot about the importance of FIRST in Israel to understand that FIRST Israel has 2 full-time Regional Directors.

There will always be challenges to overcome in FIRST, especially as we try to stay on the cutting edge of technology. Obviously we had no idea that the communications system, which worked last year in Israel, would have as much difficulty as it did. But it is also apparent that the Israeli Regional is not alone in experiencing technical difficulties. Suffice to say, these issues will be addressed before next year.

I am proud to be part of FIRST Israel.....I have seen so many of the kids who graduate from high school continue their FIRST activities as mentors and volunteers, like Leav, despite their military obligations. There seems to be a strange 'illness' that infects the IDF during March as the Regional approaches........

Once a Tick....always a Tick!