STEM Scale-Up Grants | Upcoming Non-Tournament Events | Social Media

Hello!
Just a quick note..

1. STEM Scale-Up Grants - DEADLINE: Friday, Sept. 14 (Tomorrow)
If you have not already applied, please apply for the STEM Scale-Up Grants. More information, including the registration form, can be found at www.iowastem.org

A description of the FTC STEM Scale-Up funds can be found at: http://www.engineering.uiowa.edu/ess/future-students/k-12/first-tech-challenge/ftc-stem-scale-up
Selected applicants will receive notices on or before Oct. 1, 2012.

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2. Non-Tournament Events
Registration for the 2012/2013 Non-Tournament Events can be found at: http://www.engineering.uiowa.edu/ess/future-students/k-12/first-tech-challenge/event-calendar
All non-tournament events are FREE.

This calendar is updated frequently, so check it often.

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3. We are Social!
Like us on Facebook: "FTC Iowa"
Follow us on Twitter: "ftc_iowa"
Or add us to your Circles G+: "FTC Iowa"
Don't forget our blog: http://ftc-iowa.blogspot.com/


Time for us to "Ring It Up!"

Ring It Up! | STEM Scale-Up | Register Your Team

Welcome to RING IT UP!

1. Celebration of STEM & FIRST - Wrap-Up
Thank you to those coaches, mentors, students, and volunteers who attended the Celebration of STEM & FIRST yesterday at the Iowa Memorial Union. We estimated there were between 400 - 450 attendees. We had great workshops and a excellent line-up of special dignitaries (Gov. Branstad, Lt. Gov Reynolds, Univ. of Iowa president Sally Mason, Iowa State President Steven Leath, JP Besong from Rockwell Collins and FIRST Program Officer Ken Johnson) who really promoted the importance of STEM and FIRST. Our very own Jerry Lalor did a great job introducing the game.

Check out the special video message from Dean Kamen: www.engineering.uiowa.edu/ess/future-students/k-12/first-tech-challenge  (videos page)

From the feedback I received yesterday morning, there were no issues of heavy traffic and parking could be easily found nearby. For those wondering about the venue, we had plenty of room to accommodate our large crowd and could have accommodated even 200 more. So, thank you to those who attended!!

2. STEM Scale-Up - Deadline is Friday, Sept. 14
FRIDAY, Sept. 14 is the application deadline for STEM Scale-Up. Remember to apply at www.iowastem.org
Are you curious as to what is included or covered by the STEM Scale-Up funds for FTC?
The entire listing, of what the package includes, can be found on our website at:
http://www.engineering.uiowa.edu/ess/future-students/k-12/first-tech-challenge/ftc-stem-scale-up

We are unsure of this funding for next year, so if you are on the fence, this is the time to apply for funding.

Applicants will receive notification on or before Oct. 1, 2012.

3. Register Your Team for Ring It Up!
If you are a returning team from last year, or if you have received a Rockwell Collins FTC grant, please register your team. It is important that we get all of the teams registered as soon as possible so we have an accurate number to plan out our qualifier events. Teams can register at https://my.usfirst.org/ftc/tims/site.lasso

Exciting news for FTC-Iowa | Upcoming Events | Call to host an FTC event | 2012-2013 Qualifiers

What a busy summer! Lots of important information to share, so please read through all of the items. (There are a lot of links, so please save this note so you can refer to the links in the future.)

1. Exciting news for FTC-Iowa

2. Upcoming Events -- Mark Your Calendar
a) Kick-Off Celebration
b) Call to host a 2012-2013 FTC Event
c) 2012-2013 Qualifier Tournaments

3. Changes for 2012-2013

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1 Exciting news for FTC-IowaOn Monday, July 16, the FTC program was selected as one of the State of Iowa Scale-Up Programs! This is HUGE!  (Thank you to all of you who wrote letters of endorsement/support for the Scale-Up application.)

What does being a scale-up mean? To put it simply, ALL students of Iowa will have access to FTC. ALL Regions of Iowa, (regardless of location, population density, district size, etc.) will be promoting FTC, and there will be financial assistance to help with the expansion of FTC. (More details to come soon!)

The hard work of getting to be recognized is over. Now, we NEED YOUR HELP as we recruit more rookie teams. Please promote FTC in your neighboring communities and school districts. Spread the word of FTC - Recruit more teams, volunteers, mentors, etc. We need to get 100 teams by Sept. 8th.

Resources for teams to get started:

• Rockwell Collins grants are still open. New teams, or teams who were rookies last season, can still apply. Complete the Rockwell Collins grant application.
  
• FTC Team Resources 
• FTC-Iowa Affiliate Partner (ftc.iowa@gmail.com) -- Please if you know of anyone who is interested, encourage them to email us.
• YOU! Current teams, volunteers and supporters are THE BEST way to promote and support FTC.

Also, if you haven't already done so, please register your team via TIMS.

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2. Upcoming Events -- Mark Your Calendar!!
The plans for the 2012-2013 FTC Season are well-under way. We have several events already scheduled on the books.

a) Kick-Off Celebration
 The 2012-2013 FTC Season will be Kicked-Off on Saturday, Sept. 8th at Vinton-Shellsburg High School (210 W. 21st Street, Vinton, Iowa). Similar to previous years, we will be having workshops in the morning (10am-12noon), Lunch (12noon-1pm), and then the Game Reveal. We do ask that all interested attendees to please register.

b) Call to host 2012-2013 FTC Events
We are currently seeking venues who are willing to host events (scrimmages, workshops) for the 2012-2013 FTC Season. Thank you to those who have already applied to host an event! If you are interested in hosting an event, please complete the 2012-2013 FTC Host Event form.
The form will ask for up to five potential dates, desired time, capacity, a lunch plan, and local volunteers.

c) 2012-2013 Qualifier Tournaments
Qualifier Tournament for the 2012-2013 Season are set! You can find a list of the Qualifiers on the FIRST Website -- click on "What FIRST Teams & Events are In My Area" -- narrow the search to "FTC", "Events", and "Iowa".

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3. Changes for 2012-2013A few changes for the 2012-2013 FTC Season:a) Many events will be on the same day. This includes workshops, scrimmages and qualifiers. The idea behind this is so we can have many events throughout the state to serve as many teams.

b) Remote Mentoring.
To help support and grow teams in all areas of Iowa, we have decided to implement on the concept of remote mentoring. Teams will be able to get help via the new technology of Google+ Hangouts. (Attached is a pdf to learn more about how to get started with Google Hangouts.) Please keep in mind, Google+ Hangouts is a new technology, so there may be some glitches. If you are interested or in need of remote mentoring, please fill out the Remote Mentor form.

c) Videos for Judges.
In order for the judges to learn more about the teams, we are encouraging teams to submit a 2 minute video one week prior to the qualifiers they plan to attend. Although this is not required (highly encouraged) for teams at the qualifiers, it will be required for any team who advances to the FTC-Iowa Championship. Benefits: Judges will learn more about the teams prior to the event; Teams will have the opportunity to put anything they want to in the video;  Reduces the "gosh, I wish we would have said/done this..."; Allows teams to show their creativity, their outreach, etc. Yes, we understand teams are usually stressed and worried about the function of the robot in the days/weeks before the competition, but the video will be a tremendous help at the competitions.

The process is still being finalized, but more than likely teams will be asked to upload videos to YouTube. Teams will have the opportunity to make the video private or public.

Thank you all and have a fantastic summer!

Until Kick-Off,
The FTC-Iowa team

Just a quick note:

1. World Championship Wrap-Up
At the end of April, the FTC World Championships were held in St. Louis. Feel free to view some of the pictures, and see if you recognize anyone or any teams. http://georgemarchant.zenfolio.com/2012firstchampionshipall or check out the FIRST World YouTube Channel for Wrap-Up: http://www.youtube.com/user/FIRSTWorldTube

Congratulations, Iowa teams #458, #3549, #3550, #5466 on a job well done! 


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2. Rockwell Collins Team Grants
Rockwell Collins has graciously agreed to help support FTC teams starting up, or who were rookie teams during the 2011-2012 Season, via team grants.

These grants are specifically targeted for the rookie teams (new to FTC for the 2012-2013 season) or returning teams (rookies during the 2011-2012 season). Grants amounts can range to cover the FIRST Registration cost or the purchase of the kit-of-parts. Please apply early, as there are a limited number of these grants.

Eligible teams will agree to the following:

• Teams must be located in Iowa;
• Teams must have been rookies during the 2011-2012 season (team numbers with 5xxx) or will be rookie teams during the 2012-2013 Season;
• Rockwell will only sponsor two teams per location;
• Teams consist of 5-10 team members between the ages of 14-18;
• Teams will meet weekly throughout the season;
• Coaches will participate in a training session;
• Teams will participate in at least one tournament, either a qualifier or a championship event; and
• Coach will be responsible for managing the team and participating in a post-season evaluation.

For more information, including how to apply for a grant, please visit: http://www.rockwellcollins.com/Our_Company/Corporate_Responsibility/Community_Overview/FIRST/FIRST_Grants.aspx

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3. Request to Host Events

Starting with the 2012-2013 Season, FTC-Iowa would like to offer as many events in a variety of communities throughout Iowa. If you are interested in hosting an event (workshop, scrimmage or skills driving event), we invite you to complete the form at: https://uiowa.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_03eLszkMM3vbXbC

A few things to keep in mind: 1) Please complete this form before June 1, 2012; 2) The locations of the Qualifier Tournaments have already been selected and they will begin Nov. 3rd; and 3) All scrimmage/workshop events will need to be held before Nov. 20, 2012.

Save the Date: FTC Kick-Off Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012 at Vinton-Shellsburg High School, in Vinton. More information, including times, will be released at a later date. (See attached invitation)
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4. 2012-2013 Registration is Open
Starting today, May 9, 2012, (at 12 noon EST) teams can register for the 2012-2013 FTC Season. HOWEVER, if you plan to apply for a Rockwell Collins Returning team grant, do not register with FIRST until you hear about the status of your application (typically every Friday), as you need to enter a code to activate your grant status. If you do not plan to get a Rockwell Collins grant, or if you coach a team not eligible for the Rockwell Collins grant, go ahead and register at www.usfirst.org

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5. MATRIX System
Beginning the 2012-2013 Season, teams will now have the option to integrate/use the new approved MATRIX system. Robots will be able to use TETRIX parts and MATRIX parts. For more information, please visit: http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/ftc/ftc-expands-options-to-matrix-robotics-system


Have a great summer and we look forward to working with you for the 2012-2013 FTC Season.

FTC-Iowa: Championship 2011-2012

This past weekend was the FTC-Iowa Championship for the 2011-2013 Bowled Over Season. 
What an experience!

This event was held at the Iowa Memorial Union, in Iowa City Iowa.  We had 32 teams competing for a chance to be invited to the FTC World Championship in St. Louis in April. This was a very exciting tournament!!
 
Award Winners
Promote Award: #3550, Beta, West Des Moines
Think Award: Team #3549, Classified, Mt. Vernon Schools, Mt. Vernon
Rockwell Collins Innovate Award: Team #5466, Combustible Lemons, West High, Davenport
PTC Design Award: #458, Activate Go! Initiative, Mt. Vernon Schools, Mt. Vernon
Connect Award: Team #5084, BET, ITCOM, Cedar Rapids
Motivate Award: Team #3609, Polar Technics, North High School, Des Moines
Inspire Award: Team #3550, Beta, West Des Moines

Teams Who Advance (according to page 29 of the Bowled Over Game Manual)

1. Host Team: none
2. Inspire Award Winner: Team #3550, Beta, West Des Moines
3. Winning Alliance Captain: Team #458, Activate Go! Initiative, Mt. Vernon
4. 2nd Place Inspire Award Winner: Team #3549, Classified, Mt. Vernon

In summary, Teams #3550, #458 and #3549 will be invited to the FTC World Championship in April! Congratulations!


UStream
During the day, we live broadcasted the event via UStream. You can watch some of the videos of the matches, by visiting the site at: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/state-championship


Interesting facts about the UStream: There were 227 Unique Viewers. Total viewing time: 249 hours, 24 minutes and 36 seconds. Each visitor watched for an average of 30 minutes. Cool stuff!!
Congratulations to all of the teams! 
Fun facts:

• Five matches had scores 300+ points!
• Nine matches had scores above 200-299 points!
• 19 matches had scores over 100-199 points!
• 32 teams competed, all teams had passed software and hardware inspection prior to opening ceremonies.
• We had three team alliances, so four teams advanced to the semi-final and final matches.
• Each team competed in 6 matches.
• Over 110 volunteers provided their time to make this day a great event! Thank you, Katie Mitchell and Andrew Bennett for coordinating all of the volunteers!

An FTC Adventure & Gracious Professionalism at its Best!

Today (Feb. 4) was supposed to be the final FTC-Iowa Qualifier in Blair, NE. But instead, we had a great FTC Adventure and experienced Gracious Professionalism at its finest.

A team of the most fantastic FTC volunteers (Dan Edwards, Carl Gloe, Jerry Lalor, Andy Marshall, Craig Martinson and Rebecca Whitaker) traveled from Iowa City to Omaha, NE - about 250 miles west - on Friday morning. In the early afternoon we, along with FTC team #3550, had a speaking engagement at St. Wenceslaus School in which we presented to 400 students about FIRST.

After the presentation, around 2pm, we received a call from the Event Coordinator for the Blair event. Due to some projected severe weather, the venue decided to cancel all events for the weekend. This not only included the FTC-Iowa Qualifier, but also a high school sporting event.

We spent the next half hour investigating other potential venues and were unsuccessful.  We had to cancel the event. We felt deflated. We were sad/disappointed/bummed, etc. These teams had worked so hard on their robots and we couldn't do anything for them. By 2:45pm, we had sent an email and had called the teams and coaches. The volunteers were notified through appropriate channels (Judge Advisor notified the judges, Head Referee notified the refs, etc.). Additionally, we had to cancel our lodging arrangements as well as catering services for the event. Notifying the teams and volunteers was one of THE of the worst moments we have had all season.

Event was canceled.

We couldn't let the disappointment get to us. We still had an important meeting with the school administrators and teachers, at St. Wenceslaus about the importance of FIRST and the concept of Gracious Professionalism.

Thanks to the wonderful work and quick thinking of Emmaly Burkland, coach of Beta #3550, and Bryan Butcher, coach of #3609, Des Moines North High School we had an offer on the table. Des Moines North High School's facility was willing to be our surrogate host. We said yes! We were moving the event - about 120 miles east of Omaha, NE.

Time to recruit the volunteers! Where do you go when you need volunteers on a very short notice? John Deere! Within 30 minutes, we had 10 previously experienced FTC judges and volunteers. (We had several Rockwell Collins folks already lined up.) Team #3550 also provided some volunteers and we were ready to roll.

Event is back on!

Time to re-notify the teams! We understood if teams weren't going to be able to make it, but we wanted to give an opportunity for those that were able to make it. By 5pm, all the teams were contacted, again!

Gracious Professionalism at its BEST.

We cannot express the amount of gratitude to the administration at North High. Team #3609, the students and staff at North, did a fantastic job of planning a tournament (from notification to start of opening ceremonies) within 16 hours. It was amazing. They saved the day! The Booster Club was ready, the custodial service was ready, and we were going to have this event! Although not all of the teams could make the switch to Des Moines (their schools out homes also may have received a lot of snow), we had some very excited teams who were glad to make the switch! 

In the spirit of Gracious Professionalism, we decided to advance four teams from those who could attend the competition at Des Moines North, and four teams who could not. We will be having a 32-team competition in Iowa City on Feb. 25th.

In summary, the event went very well.  Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!

This past weekend, Team #4144, Engineer Imagineer, with collaboration from Hills Community College, hosted fantastic FTC-Iowa Qualifier.
 
Award Winners
Think Award: Team #4144,  Engineer Imagineer, Girl Scouts from Ottumwa
Rockwell Collins Innovate Award: Team #3608, Oskaloosa High Team #1, Oskaloosa
PTC Design Award: Team #5253, Decepticons, Hudson High, Hudson
Connect Award: Team #5340, Warriors, Waukee High, Waukiee
Motivate Award: Team #5047, Bionic Bulldogs, Ottumwa High, Ottumwa
Against The Odds (Coaches Award): #4237, Central Lee Robotics, Central Lee HS, Donnellson
Inspire Award: Team #4156, Wildcat Robotics, Central City HS, Central City

Teams Who Advance (according to page 29 of the Bowled Over Game Manual)

1. Host Team: #4144, Engineer Imagineer, Ottumwa
2. Inspire Award Winner: Team #4156, Wildcat Robotics, Central City, Iowa
3. Winning Alliance Captain: Team #3608, Train, Oskaloosa HS, Oskaloosa
4. Inspire Award 2nd Place Winner: #3608 - however, they received an invitation to advance from previous criteria.
5. Winning Alliance, 1st team selected - #4443 - Oskaloosa HS, Oskaloosa

In summary, Teams #4144, #4156, #3608, and #4443 will be invited to the FTC-Iowa Championship in February!

Media Reports from the day:
"Robotics Reign Supreme During FTC Qualifier Event", Ottumwa Courier, Jan. 30, 2012

Congratulations to all of the teams!

Fun facts:

• One match was over 200 points!
• Twelve matches were over 100 points!
• 18 teams competed, all teams had passed software and hardware inspection prior to opening ceremonies.
• Each team competed in 6 matches. 
• Average match time was 7.04 minutes. 
• The picture shows a robot, tipped on its side, but still able to raise the create!
• A HUGE Thank you to the wonderful volunteers, including high school students, college students, recent college graduates, professionals, and retirees. Thank you!

Thank you to Jeff Henderson of Team #4144 for being the Event Organizer. Also, thank you, Hills Community College for hosting this event!

Davenport Qualifier (1/22/2012)

This past weekend, the Quad City Engineering & Science Council (QCESC) with support from the Putnam Museum hosted a fantastic FTC-Iowa Qualifier. Due to severe weather on Friday, Jan. 20, the Qualifier was pushed to Jan. 22, and despite of the delay, it was a great event!

 
Award Winners
Think Award: Team #5174,  Clinton River Kings, Clinton, Iowa
Rockwell Collins Innovate Award: Team #4296, Disco Demons, West High, Davenport
PTC Design Award: Team #5466, Combustible Lemons, West High, Davenport
Connect Award: Team #3549, Classified, Mt. Vernon, Iowa
Motivate Award: Team #3866, NC 90 Degree, North Cedar High, Stanwood
Rookie Team of the Year (Coaches Award): #5280, Regal Robots, Regina HS, Iowa City
Inspire Award: Team #458,  Activate Go Initiative!, Mt. Vernon HS, Mt. Vernon

Teams Who Advance (according to page 29 of the Bowled Over Game Manual)

1. No Host Team
2. Inspire Award Winner: Team #458, Activate Go Initiative!, Mt Vernon HS, Mt. Vernon
3. Winning Alliance Captain: Team #5466 - however, they received an invitation to advance from a previous event
4. Inspire Award 2nd Place Winner: #3549 - however, they received an invitation to advance from a previous event.
5. Winning Alliance, 1st team selected - #4296 - however, they received an invitation to advance from a previous event.
6. Inspire Award 3rd Place Winner: #5466, however, they received an invitation to advance from a previous event
7. Winning Alliance, 2nd team - #5094, Those Guys, Blackhawk County 4H, Waterloo, Iowa
8. Think Award Winner: #5174, Clinton River Kings, Clinton HS, Clinton, Iowa
9. Finalist Alliance Captain: #3788 - Benton Community #1, Benton HS, Van Horne, Iowa

In summary, Teams #458, #5094, #5174, and #3788 will be invited to the FTC-Iowa Championship in February!




Media Reports from the day:
"Teams gather for robot fight for qualifying spots", Quad-City Times, Jan. 22, 2012
"Davenport West teams excel at robotics", Quad-Cities Dispatch, Jan. 22, 2012
"Local students compete in statewide technology competition", WQAD.com, Jan. 22, 2012 (38 second video)

Congratulations to all of the teams!

Fun facts:

• One match was over 200 points (214-18)!
• Eleven matches were over 100 points!
• 21 teams competed, all teams had passed software and hardware inspection prior to opening ceremonies.
• One team raised the crate to the 9th level of the match stick - multiple times!
• Alliance Selection was very exciting! The 7th ranked team became a Captain!
• Each team competed in 5 matches. 
• Average match time was 6.7 minutes.
• A HUGE Thank you to the wonderful volunteers, including high school students, college students, recent college graduates, professionals, and retirees. Thank you!

Thank you to Patrick Barnes of John Deere for being the Event Organizer. Also, thank you, Putam for hosting this event!

Cedar Rapids Qualifier (1/7/2012)

This past weekend, FTC-Iowa hosted a great qualifier! Wow! We were very impressed! Thank you, Kirkwood Community College for hosting this WONDERFUL event!

 
Award Winners
Think Award: Team #5063,  Tipton High School, Tipton, Iowa
Rockwell Collins Innovate Award: Team #5062, Advanced, Solon, Iowa
PTC Design Award: Team #4324, Super Ninjas, Linn-Mar High School, Marion, Iowa
Connect Award: Team #4150, Outrageous Finger Socks, Linn-Mar High School, Marion, Iowa
Motivate Award: Team #5153, Benton Community High School, Van Horne, Iowa
Inspire Award: Team #4258, Bomb Squad, Jefferson High School, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Teams Who Advance (according to page 29 of the Bowled Over Game Manual)

1. No Host Team
2. Inspire Award Winner: Team #4258, Bomb Squad from Cedar Rapids, Iowa
3. Winning Alliance Captain: Team #4258 - however, since they won the Inspire Award, they received an invitation
4. Inspire Award 2nd Place Winner: #4324 - however, they received an invitation to advance from a previous event.
5. Winning Alliance, 1st team selected - #4324 - however, they received an invitation to advance from a previous event.
6. Inspire Award 3rd Place Winner: #5153, Benton Community High School, Van Horne, Iowa
7. Winning Alliance, 2nd team - none
8. Think Award Winner: #5063, Tipton High School, Tipton, Iowa
9. Finalist Alliance Captain: #367 - Organized Chaos, Solon High School, Solon, Iowa

In summary, Teams #4258, #5153, #5063, and #367 will be invited to the FTC-Iowa Championship in February!

Congratulations to all of the teams!

Fun facts:

• Two matches were over 200 points (61-205 and 209-26)!
• Seven matches were over 100 points!
• 16 teams competed, all teams had passed software and hardware inspection prior to opening ceremonies.
• One team raised the crate to the 9th level of the match stick!
• Alliance Selection was very exciting! The 7th ranked team became a Captain!
• Each team competed in 7 matches.
• A HUGE Thank you to the wonderful volunteers, including high school students, college students, recent college graduates, professionals, and retirees. Thank you!!!

Thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers, mentors, coaches and teams. This event went tremendously smooth! Thank you!!

FTC Team Blast #5: Qualifier Tournaments | LabView Code Fest (1/16/2012) | FTC Success Stories | Forums | Promote Award

Hello, Teams:
We hope you all had a wonderful and safe Holiday & A Happy New Year!
2012 is going to be an excellent year for FTC in Iowa.

A few items for this message:

1. Qualifier Tournaments

a) Tournament Update
b) Remaining Events
c) Hosting Events for 2012-2013

2.LabView Code Fest: (Jan. 16, 2012)
3. FTC Success Story
4. Questions About Specific Rules: Forums
5. New Award for 2011-2012: Promote Award

1. Qualifier Tournaments

1a) Tournament update:
Wow! Qualifier Tournaments are going very well. A HUGE Thank you to the wonderful volunteers and the event coordinators!! They have done, and continue to do, a fantastic job!  Thank you, teams and coaches, who took on the stress of hosting a Qualifier Tournament.
Teams that we've seen at the Qualifiers, have also been very impressive! Kudos all around.
Check out the FTC-Iowa blog for a summary of the events: http://ftc-iowa.blogspot.com/

Qualifiers will be the norm in Iowa!

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1b) Remaining Events
We have received an interest from many teams, who want to attend additional tournaments. Although we would like to try to accommodate these requests, the remaining events are full. If additional spots open up, we will notify teams as to how to register.
Please view the site at: https://drupal.engineering.uiowa.edu/ftc-iowa-qualifier-tournaments-2011-assignments

Seeking Volunteers! If your students/mentors/coaches are not competing, but would like to watch an event, we would love to have them as volunteers!
Volunteers can sign up at: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&pli=1&formkey=dEdlcUJaT0lONS1nSHkzdjhDUm1mZWc6MA#gid=0

1c) Hosting an Event for 2012-2013
Are you interested in hosting an FTC event for next season? Many of the coaches/mentors have expressed an interest in hosting an event, either verbally or via e-mail. Even if you have expressed an interest, please send an email to Rebecca Whitaker (rebecca-whitaker@uiowa.edu) with the Subject: "2012-2013 FTC Host Event Request" so the requests can be collected - with the location (address), potential dates, etc. We will then collect these requests, look at the calendars, and go from there. Thank you, in advance for your interest and desire to host FTC events!
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2. LabView Code Fest: Jan. 16th
FTC teams who use LabView, or are interested in using LabView, are invited to attend the first ever FREE!! Code Fest! Monday, Jan. 16th at The College of Engineering from 10am-4pm. More information, including the goal of the event, is in the attached flier. RSVP to Andy Marshall (andy.marshall@ni.com) Coaches, mentors and students are invited to participate.
~Exciting Stuff!!~

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3. FTC Success Story
FTC National is looking for success stories from the teams and students who participate in FTC. Please send stories, brief or long, to stories@usfirst.org. They'll be kept as confidential as you like with names and team numbers used or not based on your preference. Feel free to share as much detail as you'd like - your privacy will be protected if you'd like to remain anonymous. We would love for Iowa teams to submit their success stories!!

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4. Questions About Specific Rules: Forums
Does your team have questions about specific rules which are confusing or are not defined in the Game Manual? Check out the FTC forums. (http://ftcforum.usfirst.org/)
FYI: The most recent version of the Game Manual is #4, dated 11/28/2011
The rulings on the forums are final. Teams are responsible for knowing the information provided.

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5. New Award for 2011-2012: Promote Award
All teams, regardless if they are invited to compete at the FTC-Iowa Championship, are encouraged to submit an entry for the Promote Award. Information can be found at: http://usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/ftc/promote
Now is the time to get stock footage of your team in the building/competing phase of the season.
Details about how to submit a video to FTC-Iowa will be sent at a later date.


Thank you all!
The FTC-Iowa Team

Benton Community Qualifier (Dec. 17, 2011)

This past weekend, FTC-Iowa hosted a great qualifier! Wow! We were very impressed! Thank you, teams #3788, #4371, and #5153 - Benton Community High School for hosting this WONDERFUL event!

 
Award Winners
Think Award: Team #4626, Autobots, from Hudson, Iowa
Rockwell Collins Innovate Award: Team #4296, Disco Demons, from Davenport, Iowa
PTC Design Award: Team #3752, Falcon Nation, from Davenport, Iowa
Connect Award: Team #4177, Highland Robotics, from Riverside, Iowa
Motivate Award: Team #4371, Benton Community 2, from Van Horne, Iowa
Inspire Award: Team #5466, Combustible Lemos, from Davenport, Iowa

Teams Who Advance

Host team: Team #4371, Benton Community High School
Inspire Award Winner: Team #5466, Combustible Lemons from Davenport, Iowa
Captain of the Winning Alliance: Team #5466 -- however, since they won the Inspire Award, they had already advanced.
2nd Place Inspire Award: Team #4296, Disco Demons from Davenport, Iowa
1st Team Picked of Winning Alliance: #3572, Falcon Nation from Davenport, Iowa

Congratulations to all of the teams!

Fun facts:

• Two matches were over 100 points (26-113 and 116-36) and both were in the semi-final matches.
• Two matches ended in a tie, 5-5 and 22-22
• 16 teams competed, all teams had passed software and hardware inspection prior to opening ceremonies.
• One team scored the magnet ball! Check out the video.
• Alliance Selection was very exciting! The 7th ranked team became a Captain!
• Each team competed in 6 matches.
• Wanna see a video about a team being persistent? Hard work pays off for #5253 Check out the video!
• 40 volunteers, including high school students, college students, recent college graduates, professionals, and retirees. Thank you!!!

Thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers, mentors, coaches and teams. This event went tremendously smooth! Thank you!!

West Des Moines Qualifier Summary (12-03-2011)

This past weekend, FTC-Iowa hosted a great qualifier! Wow! We were very impressed! Thank you, teams #3550 - Beta for hosting this WONDERFUL event!

 
Award Winners
Think Award: Team #5063, Tweener Creepers, from Tipton, Iowa
Rockwell Collins Innovate Award: Team #4175, Geek Squad from Cedar Rapids, Iowa
PTC Design Award: Team #3550, Beta from West Des Moines, Iowa
Connect Award: Team #3609, Polar Technics from Des Moines, Iowa
Motivate Award: Team #5489, Science Bound Catalyst, from Des Moines, Iowa
Inspire Award: Team #5126, InDEnProCom, from Ankeny, Iowa

Teams Who Advance

Host team: Team #3550, Beta from West Des Moines, Iowa
Inspire Award Winner: Team #5126, InDEnProCom, from Ankeny, Iowa
Captain of the Winning Alliance: Team #4325, CoBots from Walker, Iowa
2nd Place Inspire Award: Team #3550 Beta, from West Des Moines -- however, since they were the host team, they automatically advanced.
1st Team Picked of Winning Alliance: #5340, Warriors from Waukee, Iowa

Congratulations to all of the teams!

Fun facts:

• Highest score of a match: 86-69
• One match ended in a tie, 80-80 (pictures below)
• 15 teams competed, all teams had passed software and hardware inspection prior to opening ceremonies.
• One of the Samanthas started smoking!
• Each team competed in 6 matches.
• Average match turnaround time was 6.5909 minutes
• 60 volunteers, including high school students, college students, recent college graduates, professionals, and retirees. Thank you!!!

Thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers, mentors, coaches and teams. This event went tremendously smooth! Thank you!!

FTC-Iowa: Ankeny Scrimmage (10/29/2011)

The FTC-Iowa team attended a fantastic scrimmage today in at Ankeny High School in Ankeny, Iowa. Thank you teams #3738 & #5126 for hosting!!

The FTC-Iowa team continues to be amazed with the tasks and challenges the teams are accomplishing at this stage of the season. Although we had seen a few of the teams at the Oct. 1 Skills Driving Event, there were a few teams who we haven't seen since Kick-Off.

Teams are getting a great start, with the mechanics of the robot, if they follow the TETRIX Getting Started Guide. Kudos, to the folks at LEGO Education who developed the Guide! Also, teams are also benefiting from the redesign of LabView for LEGO Mindstorms. Kudos, National Instruments!

During the scrimmage, we held two workshop sessions of LabView training. Thank you, Andy Marshall, for leading these workshops! We also had hardware and software inspections. Thank You, Leon Turner, Art Roderick, and Craig Martinson for being our inspectors!

What we learned at the scrimmage:

1. Bowling balls (and racquetballs) have a mind of their own.
2. Everyone on the team should be familiar with the Game Manual.
3. Adaptors help with "flashing" the Samantha. (These are USB A-USB B female adaptors, see picture.) 
4. if the team does not want to have "drop-outs" during a match, the Samantha module needs to be properly and securely mounted onto the robot. (See recommendations on usfirst.org website)
5. Teams learn so much when they work with, and next to, other teams. 

If you haven't attended a scrimmage, our last one is next week! Also FTC-Iowa Qualifiers start on Nov. 19. If you don't know your assignment, visit
http://drupal.engineering.uiowa.edu/ftc-iowa-qualifier-tournaments-2011-assignments

Thank you to all of the teams, coaches, mentors and volunteers who attended the Ankeny Scrimmage!

P.S. No racquetballs were "injured" at the Ankeny scrimmage.

FTC Team Blast #4: October Status Report | Scrimmage Events | Community Networking | FTC on YouTube! | Qualifier Registration | Seeking Volunteers

Hello teams!
This email includes the following information:

1. October Team Status Report
2. Scrimmages are Open!
3. Community Networking - 5 Easy Steps
4. Video Resources on YouTube!
5. Qualifier Registration - Round #2 Closes tomorrow, Oct. 20th
6. Seeking Volunteers

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1. October Team Status Report
Each month, we ask for teams to provide feedback in regards to their progress. This feedback is then used to provide support or help resolve any problems or questions teams may have encountered. It is very beneficial for teams to complete the Status Reports.
The October Status Report can be completed at: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dDF0eU5LQ1g2UmpJT21EYjJXUVhIYlE6MA#gid=0
This report will close on October 27, 2011.

During the FTC season, we pick a random status report and send out a little token of appreciation to those teams who complete it. Is the October one the lucky report?
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2. Scrimmage Events are Open!
Scrimmage events are excellent opportunities for teams. Although the goal of the scrimmages are to run matches for teams, the exchanging of ideas from the teams is amazing. Teams who attend scrimmages walk-away with so much more information and knowledge, it really is amazing.

Is your team a little scared of attending a scrimmage because "they aren't ready"? Its ok! Scrimmages are events where your team can arrive with a box of parts, and by the end of the event, your team will have a chassis. (We've seen that happen several times!) We would encourage rookie teams to work through the "Getting Started with TETRIX Guide", which was included with your kit.

Scrimmage events are:
Oct. 22 - Oelwein
Oct. 29 - Ankeny
Nov. 5 - Solon
More information, including how to register, can be found at: http://drupal.engineering.uiowa.edu/ftc-iowa-2011-events

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3. Community Networking - 5 Easy Steps
FTC teams are successful when they begin to use the resources (whatever they may be) in their community. On Monday, Ken Johnson, Director of FTC, posted an article on his blog about Community Networking. The article was written by Terri Willingham a coach for "Team Duct Tape" in Florida. The information provided is VERY helpful. Check it out at: http://firsttechchallenge.blogspot.com/2011/10/community-networking-in-5-easy-steps.html

Think your community is too far from "civilization"? Do you live out "in-the-middle-of-no-where" and you don't have any local resources? You do. Just ask.

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4. Video Resources on YouTube!Some great resources for your team may include watching some YouTube videos. Check out the following resources:

• FTC National YouTube Channel - This includes excellent tutorials about "Preventing ElectroStatic Discharge", "FTC and Video: Awards and Tips and Tricks".
  
• Other team videos - An excellent example of this is by team #4530. Check out their video about "configuration of the Samantha module"
• By doing a simple search on YouTube, and using some keywords, such as "FTC 2011", "teams", "Bowled Over", (or a combination of these) etc. You'll be able to find many videos to help with your robot design.

Do you have a YouTube Channel? We'd like to know! Please send us the link to your YouTube Channel or some of the videos you've posted.
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5. Qualifier Tournaments - Round #2 Closes tomorrow, Oct. 20th
Thank you for all of the teams who have signed up for Qualifier Tournaments. At this time, we have each team designed to at least one event.
A few things to keep in mind:

• Teams are only "required" to compete at one event.
• Any team who chooses to compete in a second event, they must register before Oct. 20th. (TOMORROW!)
• If a team registers for two qualifiers, and then advances to state from their first competition, they are still obligated to attend the second qualifier
• Each qualifier has a registration fee of $150. If a team registers for two events, the total cost of registration fee is $300. Invoices will be sent out early next week.

Currently, many of the qualifiers are currently full to capacity. If your team has not signed up, but is interested in attending a second qualifier, please register here.

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6. Seeking Volunteers
Are there members of your community (parents of your team members, school board members, local engineers, etc) who would like to be involved more with FTC by helping at an event? There are some excellent opportunities for more community involvement. We are seeking volunteers for our qualifier tournaments and the state championship event. Some positions (judge, referee, FTA, emcee, scorekeeper, etc) require pre-event training, but for others, no training is required. More information can be found at: http://drupal.engineering.uiowa.edu/ftc-iowa-volunteers
All volunteers will receive a t-shirt (to wear on that day) and a "Volunteer Passport". For each event a volunteer helps with, they will receive a "stamp" of appreciation. Try to collect all of the stamps!

A final note about volunteers: FTC-Iowa would not be successful if it wasn't for the dedicated and wonderful volunteers who help with this program. These folks give their time to help the students of your community. Show some appreciation by Thanking a Volunteer today! Thank you!!

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Have a good week and see you out there!

As always, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!!!

FTC-Iowa Qualifying Tournament: Registration Round #2

In order to allow teams to compete, and fulfill the criteria for the many team grants, we are implementing Qualifying Tournaments in Iowa.Teams MUST compete at a qualifying tournament to advance to the FTC-Iowa Championship.

1. Qualifier Tournaments - "Assignments" from Round #1
2. Qualifier Tournaments - Round #2 is Open
3. Amount of Space at Qualifiers
4. Scrimmage Events - Registration Open

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1. Qualifier Tournaments - "Assignments" from Round #1
Based on the information we received during Round #1, we have placed teams in the qualifiers they indicated they would be interested in attending. Please see the attached document.

A few things to keep in mind:

• At this time, we cannot make changes to the "assignments".
• If you do not see your team number on the attached sheet, it means you did not register during Round #1.

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2. Qualifier Tournaments - Round #2 is Open
To register for the Qualifying Tournaments, visit: k-12.engineering.uiowa.edu and under "FTC-Iowa Qualifying Tournaments" is information on how to register.
This is Round #2. It will close on October 20th.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Teams can select two events they would like to attend. These should be different from the event you were "assigned" to from Round #1. Again, after Round #2 closes, teams will receive their assignment based on their feedback.
• If a team DOES register for a second qualifier, they are committing to attending two events. (Example: A team does very well and earns a bit to compete at the FTC-Iowa Championship from a November qualifier event. The team has also signed up to attend a January qualifier. They are still responsible to attend the January event.) If a team does not attend the second qualifier event, which they have registered for, they will automatically forfeit their bit to the FTC-Iowa Championship.
  
• Each qualifier has a registration fee of $150, and they will be billed at the same time. (Invoices will be sent out after Round #2 closes.)
• Teams are NOT required to register/attend two qualifier events. If the team only wants to compete in one qualifier, that is just fine.

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3. Amount of Space at Qualifiers
Based on the information provided during Round #1, the following is how many OPEN spots are left at each Qualifier event.

• Nov. 19th event in Marion, Iowa: 2 spots remain
• Dec. 3rd event in West Des Moines, Iowa: 7 spots remain
• Dec. 17th event in Van Horne, Iowa: 9 spots remain
• Jan. 7th event in Cedar Rapids, Iowa: 5 spots remain
• Jan. 21st event in Davenport, Iowa: 7 spots remain
• Jan. 28th event in Ottumwa, Iowa: 7 spots remain
• Feb. 4th event in Blair, NE: 11 spots remain

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4. Scrimmage Events - Registration Open
The best way to get practice before a qualifier is to attend a scrimmage event. We are very fortunate to be able to partner with several teams host three scrimmage events and they are:
Oct. 22: Oelwein, Iowa
Oct. 29: Ankeny, Iowa
Nov. 5: Solon, Iowa

Attending a scrimmage is at free, and teams get so much good information by attending a scrimmage.
Please sign up for scrimmages at: http://drupal.engineering.uiowa.edu/ftc-iowa-2011-events

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As always, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Good luck!

FTC-Iowa Qualifying Tournament: Registration Round #1

Qualifying Tournament Announcement

In order to allow teams to compete, and fulfill the criteria for the many team grants, we are implementing Qualifying Tournaments in Iowa.

Teams MUST compete at a qualifying tournament to advance to the FTC-Iowa Championship. To register for the Qualifying Tournaments, visit: k-12.engineering.uiowa.edu and under "FTC-Iowa Qualifying Tournaments" is information on how to register.

This is Round #1. It will close on Tuesday, Oct. 11. Round #2 will open on Friday, Oct. 14 and will go through Thursday, Oct. 20, 2011


Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a qualifier tournament?
  Qualifier tournaments are small tournaments between 12-16 teams competing. Teams compete in order to advance to the FTC-Iowa Championship.

• Is there a max of number of qualifiers for each team?
  Teams will be able to participate in 2 qualifiers. The idea: Teams should play early and play often.

• How do teams register?
  Teams have one week to register for their first qualifier tournament. We will close that registration after one week. The next week, the second round of qualifier registrations will open, which will close after one week. Teams and qualifier hosts will be notified as who will be attend the events.
  
• What happens if I do not sign up during these two rounds?
  If teams do not sign up for a qualifier event during the registration weeks, they will forfeit the opportunity to compete and will not be able to compete at the FTC-Iowa Championship.

• Payment Information
  After the two rounds to qualifiers close, teams will receive an invoice for the registration fees. Payment must be received before teams can participate in the qualifier tournaments.
  
• Other Information
  If a team registers for two qualifiers, and earns a bid to the FTC-Iowa Championship from the first one, they will still be RESPONSIBLE to attend the second qualifier. If a team does not attend the second qualifier, they will forfeit their bid to the Iowa Championship. As a Qualifier Tournament host, you are counting on having the registered teams attend.

Again, please visit: k-12.engineering.uiowa.edu and under "FTC-Iowa Qualifying Tournaments" is information on how to register.

Good luck!

FTC Team Blast #2: Welcome to Bowled Over!

Hello, Teams!
We hope everyone has been "Bowled Over". This following topics are covered in this message.
Also, an archive of this can be found on our blog at: http://ftc-iowa.blogspot.com/

1. Upcoming Events
2. Team Status Check
3. Bowled Over Field & Materials
4. Excellent Resource "FTC Teams: Tips, Tricks, Strategies & Secrets (new edition!)"

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1. Upcoming Events
The best way to get some experience, and see what other teams are doing, is to attend some pre-competition scrimmage events. These events, are FREE! Teams are encouraged to attend at least one, if not two of them.

On Saturday, Oct. 1, Team #3550 - Beta, will be hosting our first event, the Skills Driving Challenge. Check out the events website at: http://staging1.engineering.uiowa.edu/ftc-iowa-2011-events
The Skills Driving event is a GREAT way for teams to get experience with the Samantha, how to drive a robot and to meet with other teams. This event was VERY popular last season.

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2. Team Status Check
We are asking for ALL teams to complete a brief on-line form about how your team is doing. (If you have multiple teams, you will need to complete the form multiple times.) This form gives our team a great snapshot of the progress of all of our teams and see if there are areas in which we can help you. The online survey can be found at: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dENtNi16UGJ0aXRMRlQ2MHZvUi1DeGc6MA#gid=0

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3. Bowled Over Field & Materials
We have been asked, by many teams, as to where they can purchase the items for the Bowled Over game. Thank you, to Oregon FTC, for putting together this list.
**Please note: It is not required for teams to have a complete field to participate. If teams are only able to build a quarter of the field, that works as well.**

• Bill of Materials - Official "Bowled Over" Bill Of Materials
• The crates -  Sterilite 1695. Teams can also find them at Wal-mart. Teams don't need the clear ones. They are cheap at $1 per crate.
• Racquetballs - Teams don't need 100 of them for practicing. You can order them from AndyMark (www.andymark.com) at $16.28 for 24.
• Bowling Balls - check with your local bowling center and tell them what you are doing and ask if they would sell you a used 6lb. ball OR ask if they could order one at the their cost for your team. If your team decides not to attempt the bowling ball ramp part of the challenge you can skip purchasing one.
• Lights on the off-field goals - Teams don't need the lights in the ball containers at the side of the field and teams really only need to build one ramp.
• Low Cost Perimeter Option - Check it out on the FTC website: http://www.usfirst.org/uploadedFiles/Community/FTC/FTC_Documents_and_Updates/2008/Low%20Cost%20Field%20BOM.pdf
• Field tiles - The official tiles used for the FTC field floor are sold through Soft Tiles (www.softtiles.com), as they are the vendor for the official FTC Field Floor. They are offering FTC teams a 10% discount. To get the discount you must place your order by PHONE 888-477-6532 (toll free) (9am – 5:30pm EST). Ask for the 2’ x 2’ gray tiles 5/8” thick and tell them you are a FTC Coach. 12’ x 12’ field = 36 tiles = $187.92 + about $50 S & H.  Please note: You still get the discount if you order less tiles. 

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4. Excellent Resource: "FTC Teams: Tips, Tricks, Strategies & Secrets" (new edition!) A huge "Thank You" to Bill Mattaliano, of Solon Robotics Teams #367 & #5062, for letting us know about an updated version of the FTC book called "FTC Teams: Tips, Tricks, Strategies & Secrets". Although it is not required for teams to have a copy, teams can learn a lot from this book. Amazon is selling them for about $10. ISBN-13 #: 978-1463788728.
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Looking forward to working with your team! Hope to see you at one of the scrimmage events!

The FTC-Iowa Team
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A Few Thoughts Before Kick-Off...

 

Its hard to believe that we are just days away from the 2011 FTC Kick-Off. Its so close, we can almost count down the hours! I feel as giddy as I did on the nights before a new school year/the start of a new job, etc. To put it simply, I am giddy. I cannot imagine what the staff at FIRST is feeling; and the Game Design Committee members, they must be over-excited.


One important note: The FTC staff and GDC member should be thanked a million times, and then thanked again. These folks work all year long on the game, in fact, they probably started brainstorming last fall. They are truly an amazing group of folks and I personally admire each and every one of them. As you read the Game Manual on Saturday, take a look at the first few pages and send a thank you to the magical/brilliant/amazing members of the GDC & FTC staff. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
To them, I say "Oink! Oink!" :-)

Kick-Off in Iowa: A Celebration
On Saturday, Sept. 10, the FTC-Iowa program is hosting its annual Kick-Off Celebration. This is our 3rd Annual Kick-Off Event, and it really is a celebration. We are celebrating the new season. We are celebrating the wonderful volunteers, who dedicate their time to FTC. We are celebrating the returning coaches who are offering FTC to their students - again. We are celebrating the rookie coaches who are willing to offer FTC to their students. We are celebrating. (We anticipate nearly 270 students/mentors/volunteers/coaches who will be celebrating with us.)
Check out the FTC-Iowa Celebration website.

Its time to "Get Over It"...
Last season, FTC-Iowa had many highs and many lows and I, personally, was not prepared to handle all of the peaks and valleys of last season. However, I got through them because of the wonderful support I received from the members of FTC-Iowa Advisory Group. To these guys, I am forever grateful. You are my brothers. :-)
In addition, the coaches and students were just amazing. You kept me going - You gave me the steam to continue. Thank you.
Its official. Its time to Get Over It.

Thank you!
A huge thank you to Rockwell Collins, as they are the Official Program Sponsor of the FTC program. In Iowa, we are very fortunate to have such a great relationship with Rockwell Collins. Their employees/retirees/interns serve as coaches, mentors and volunteers for the FTC-Iowa program. Thank you. 

Game Hints
Although Ken has revealed some Game Hints on his blog, I'm hoping for water balloons. Sorry, but I don't have any game hints. ;(

And Finally...
Good luck to the FLL teams on "Food Factor" and Jr. FLL teams on "Snack Attack". May those students continue with FIRST and we'll see them in a few years in FTC. Please wish me luck as I coach my first FLL and Jr. FLL teams. (I have REALLY been bit by the FIRST bug.)


Wishing all of the FTC teams a great Kick-Off and a wonderful season!

See you out there,
Rebecca Whitaker

FTC-Iowa Affiliate Partner