{"id":2203,"date":"2019-10-29T03:31:22","date_gmt":"2019-10-29T10:31:22","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/?p=2203"},"modified":"2019-11-01T05:27:47","modified_gmt":"2019-11-01T12:27:47","slug":"10-29-19","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/2019\/10\/29\/10-29-19\/","title":{"rendered":"10.29.19 Team Eblast-Updated"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"print-this-page\">\n<p>MDE State Grant Update\u00a0 l\u00a0 Preparing for Competition\u00a0 l\u00a0 Open Event Spots\u00a0 l\u00a0 Program Details<br \/>\n<!--more--><\/p>\n<div class='printomatic pom-default ' id='id8683'  data-print_target='.print-this-page'><\/div>\n<h5><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">10.30.19 UPDATE-JUDGING CLARIFICATION<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n<p>It has been brought to my attention that the information regarding the amount of time for Teams to present their information during the Formal Judging Presentation, without interruption by the Judges, is conflicted in Game Manual Part 1. FIRST FTC HQ has noted the\u00a0discrepancy which will be corrected within the next few weeks. They have confirmed that the correct information is contained in Game Manual Part 1, Section 9.3.1; see excerpt below:<\/p>\n<p>9.3.1 How Judging Works At FIRST Tech Challenge Championship Tournaments:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Interview with the Judges.\n<ul>\n<li>Teams take part in scheduled, private interviews with a panel of two or more Judges.<\/li>\n<li>Teams are asked to bring their Robot to the judge interview. This is the best chance for teams to explain and show their robot design to the judges in a quiet and relaxed environment.<\/li>\n<li>The interview will last at least 10 minutes.<\/li>\n<li>During the first 5 minutes of the interview, Teams have the opportunity to present to the Judges, without interruption. Teams are not required to prepare a presentation and will not be penalized if they do not have a prepared presentation. <strong>Teams will not receive more than 5 minutes for their uninterrupted presentation. <\/strong><\/li>\n<li>At the five-minute mark, the Judges will begin to ask questions of the Team.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"print-this-page\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail_signature\">\n<h5><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">MDE FIRST ROBOTICS GRANT<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n<div>\n<p>Reminder that the MDE FIRST Robotics Grant is open for application. The grant window is kind of tight as the <strong>grant closes at midnight on November 14<\/strong>. The grant funding is $4.7 million for FIRST Robotics teams affiliated with an MDE recognized public school\/charter\/academy.\u00a0 At this time, nonpublic schools are not eligible applicants for the current\u00a0year\u2019s funding but are eligible applicants for the 2018-19 work project funding (rollover funds from prior year).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>The 2019-2020 award structure for eligible FTC teams:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>$2,000 \u2013 Rookie FIRST Tech Challenge Teams<\/li>\n<li>$1,000 \u2013 Veteran FIRST Tech Challenge Teams<\/li>\n<li>$1,500 for a Middle School FIRST Tech Challenge team (limit one middle\u00a0school program stipend per school)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div>\n<p>The application will be accessible to a school\/school district&#8217;s &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1NWeNc0xm0LTBO1aQ7iy7H7GyRcvkJ2CwqcO1p12nAYY\/edit?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Level 5<\/a>&#8221; (list of Level 5&#8217;s by school\/district) designated employees which are usually the superintendent\/principal\/finance dept. The &#8220;Level 5&#8221; will submit a single grant application on behalf of all the FIRST teams (all programs) in the school\/district. Having your team affiliated with and recognized by an MDE recognized school\/charter\/academy is key to accessing this funding opportunity.<\/p>\n<p>Refer to this <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/e\/2PACX-1vRt2rthfRRwzRVwM_Ok8kARUmYLTslhKf60nfojydCShLMDEEwyRUHvAMztxG9V9g9Nw771DnP-zHt-\/pub\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2019-20 MDE Grant Step-by-Step Guide<\/a> for assistance with navigating the grant.\u00a0Details on funding levels can be found on the MDE site page for the grant:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.techplan.org\/rdi\/first-robotics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.techplan.org\/rdi\/first-robotics\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>It is required that a team is <strong>fully registered for the 2019-2020 season<\/strong> ($275 FTC season registration fee is paid) as part of the award consideration criteria. Participation in a FIRST in Michigan FTC competition in the 2019-2020 season is a requirement of the grant.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">EVENT PARTICIPATION<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Our 2019-20 fall competition season begins this weekend with our week 1 events!\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A HUGE thank you to our event hosts who&#8217;ve been busily preparing to host our teams!!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Reminder that teams will not see their confirmed events in their Team Dashboard.\u00a0Event confirmations can be found on the <a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/mi-ftc-team-list\/\">MI FTC Team List<\/a>. Put your team number in the search box then click on the &#8220;+&#8221; sign to expand the toggle box.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>If your team is currently waitlisted for a 2nd\/3rd round event, it is likely that the team&#8217;s submitted preferred event(s) were at capacity at the time the team&#8217;s form was submitted. As an event spot becomes available, the next team waitlisted for that event will be offered the spot. It is anticipated that there will be very little movement among 12\/07 events.<\/p>\n<p><b>A\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail-m_-461303657317848390gmail-m_-2857433043064540148gmail-m_5393932082653005000gmail-m_-3195067473767995054gmail-m_-2253877083326736770gmail-m_4375662105970675463gmail-il\">team<\/span>&#8216;s presence is expected at the events where they&#8217;ve been confirmed.<\/b>\u00a0 A late withdrawal\u00a0from a confirmed event causes issues (planning and financial) for the host and reflects negatively on the\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail-m_-461303657317848390gmail-m_-2857433043064540148gmail-m_5393932082653005000gmail-m_-3195067473767995054gmail-m_-2253877083326736770gmail-m_4375662105970675463gmail-il\">team. As competition is a requirement of teams accepting FIRST, FIRST in Michigan, MDE, and\/or sponsor specific grants; withdrawing from an event\u00a0<\/span>could impact grant awards.\u00a0Remember, feeling &#8220;not ready&#8221; is usual &#8211; group support is available\u00a0at the event!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Some events offer\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">Friday<\/span><\/span>\u00a0load-in\/early inspections. This is a great way to ease the\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">Saturday<\/span><\/span>\u00a0morning &#8220;crunch&#8221;. Note that event set up occurs\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">on Friday<\/span><\/span>\u00a0late afternoon through evening so it&#8217;s possible that the event will look &#8220;not ready&#8221; when\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail-m_-461303657317848390gmail-m_-2857433043064540148gmail-m_5393932082653005000gmail-m_-3195067473767995054gmail-m_-2253877083326736770gmail-m_4375662105970675463gmail-il\">teams<\/span>\u00a0arrive on site\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">on Friday<\/span><\/span>. Help is always appreciated!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p>FTC events start early\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">on Saturday<\/span><\/span>\u00a0with\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail-m_-461303657317848390gmail-m_-2857433043064540148gmail-m_5393932082653005000gmail-m_-3195067473767995054gmail-m_-2253877083326736770gmail-m_4375662105970675463gmail-il\">teams<\/span>\u00a0needing to pass Robot\/Field Inspections and cycle through their assigned judging timeslot within the\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail-m_-461303657317848390gmail-m_-2857433043064540148gmail-m_5393932082653005000gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-aQJ\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-aQJ\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">7:30-10am<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>\u00a0timeframe (est.). T<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail-m_-461303657317848390gmail-m_-2857433043064540148gmail-m_5393932082653005000gmail-m_-3195067473767995054gmail-m_-2253877083326736770gmail-m_4375662105970675463gmail-il\">eams should plan to\u00a0<\/span>be on site\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">Saturday<\/span><\/span>\u00a0right when doors open. Check the agenda of your specific event for the roll out of the day.<\/p>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">ADVANCEMENT<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<div>\n<div>\n<p>FIRST in Michigan will adhere to the FIRST mandated FIRST Tech Challenge Advancement Criteria. The criteria can be found in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/game-manual-part-1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Game Manual 1<\/a>.\u00a0FIRST in Michigan opts-out of the qualifier host team advancement spot criteria.<\/p>\n<p>Teams are eligible for advancement at <strong>any one of the first three tournaments<\/strong> they participate in at a given level (qualifier, league tournament, championship) regardless of the region.\u00a0A team that earns an advancement spot at a given level is not eligible for an advancement spot at other events at that same level.\u00a0The team is still eligible to receive all awards at any one of their first three tournaments except the Inspire Award. Teams that have won the Inspire Award at another event of the same level, regardless of the region, cannot be considered for the Inspire Award Winner at additional events at that level.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"print-this-page\">\n<p>\u00a0A list of advancement allocations by event along with each qualifier&#8217;s FTC States advancement location is posted on the FIRST in Michigan FTC website&#8217;s <a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/event-registration\/\">EVENT REGISTRATION<\/a> process site page under the ADVANCEMENT section.\u00a0 FIRST in Michigan FTC State Championships will advance a total of 14 teams to FIRST Championship-Detroit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">OPEN EVENT SPOTS<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>There are still open event spots in week 1, 2, and 3. The Petoskey event is additionally offering cookies! Check out the advancement spot allocation per event (see ADVANCEMENT section of site page:\u00a0 <a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/event-registration\/\">http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/event-registration\/<\/a>). Open spots by events are listed below.<\/p>\n<p>To sign up, fill out a <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/forms\/d\/e\/1FAIpQLSfPQ8zc9_3zfMW2gaxTVeAhsz9dqM4v7rHDsxoBFX3AfhtpFQ\/viewform\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">3rd round event registration form<\/a> (link). Assignment is made on a first come-first served basis, as event capacity allows, per the form&#8217;s date\/timestamp.<\/p>\n<p>11\/02-Kentwood\u00a0 \u00a02 spots<br \/>\n11\/02-Petoskey\u00a0 \u00a0 13 spots<br \/>\n11\/09-Bedford\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a021 spots<br \/>\n11\/09-Canton\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 4 spots<br \/>\n11\/09-Kingsford\u00a0 \u00a03 spots<br \/>\n11\/09-Richland\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a02 spots<br \/>\n11\/16-Howell-1\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 3 spots<br \/>\n11\/17-Howell-2\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a014 spots<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail_signature\">\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">EVENT INFORMATION<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-m_-7208688377442745177gmail-m_-4580138073686423102gmail-m_-7224984817622145695gmail-m_-5505622349487982504gmail_signature\">\n<div>Visit the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGdCLZOMAS53O7biWNb-DgDjVN47g\">FIRST in Michigan FTC website<\/a>\u00a0for the latest event information! Click on the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/events\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNF4SGZMdlEOZ1p86YB0b-yV0ARIPA\">EVENTS<\/a>\u00a0menu option for a list of the season&#8217;s competitions. Each event has a link on this site page that leads to general event information. On the right sidebar of an event specific page is a link called &#8220;EVENT DETAILS&#8221;. Click on this link for site specific information like how to remit the $100 event registration fee, access site maps,check out food options like lunch pre-orders, etc.<\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<div>Refer to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/e\/2PACX-1vShRzhL2hKT2SttOy0fa3qk55Jis-aW5DxXy2wVHRBWbQ2sl22dSii2vB9og9-hDrwKlhyDuyibr4oz\/pub\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/e\/2PACX-1vShRzhL2hKT2SttOy0fa3qk55Jis-aW5DxXy2wVHRBWbQ2sl22dSii2vB9og9-hDrwKlhyDuyibr4oz\/pub&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGaUgw9l1TPx6eYGlO83OxScyrLTw\">What to Expect at an Event guide<\/a>\u00a0for a typical event rollout and tips for a good event experience.<\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<div>Coaches &#8211; FIRST in Michigan eblasts only go to the Lead Coach\/Mentor 1 and 2 for your team. Please share event specific information with the families of your team members.<\/div>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">EVENT PAPERWORK<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<div>Teams need to turn in TWO Consent\/Release forms at every event where a team participates. A Team Roster is required as well.<\/div>\n<div>\n<ul>\n<li>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/0By4NV3TncTpmSjV0c1M0UFBzVDA\/view\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/0By4NV3TncTpmSjV0c1M0UFBzVDA\/view&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHOFygDpzdOVdOKFftiTh1wOM34Ug\">FIRST in Michigan Consent\/Release Form<\/a>\u00a0is not available online. A signed paper form must be turned in for each team member\/coach\/mentor.<\/li>\n<li>The FIRST HQ Consent\/Release Form can be signed electronically as part of the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/resource-library\/youth-team-member-consent-and-release-form?utm_campaign=ft-team-blast-019&amp;utm_source=hs_email&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=67175484&amp;_hsenc=p2ANqtz--pnDYZbCFWRIwzaFi8Ci5YXPQVZybQviq5YBcTLX8nuJAXuRgozby3QQvQ8iGn8Uar_BuLuAYjDLVq1L3Y2SJIkXwt7A&amp;_hsmi=67175484\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/resource-library\/youth-team-member-consent-and-release-form?utm_campaign%3Dft-team-blast-019%26utm_source%3Dhs_email%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_content%3D67175484%26_hsenc%3Dp2ANqtz--pnDYZbCFWRIwzaFi8Ci5YXPQVZybQviq5YBcTLX8nuJAXuRgozby3QQvQ8iGn8Uar_BuLuAYjDLVq1L3Y2SJIkXwt7A%26_hsmi%3D67175484&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNESu2OF6Vqs_XoGCjov6sohpUn7Ug\">Youth Team Registration Process<\/a>. Or, a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/0By4NV3TncTpmY3RRY2VzTEx0UGM\/view\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/0By4NV3TncTpmY3RRY2VzTEx0UGM\/view&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHBzwgLBQPhA0Nr9RhSP8j2O4tsig\">paper version<\/a>\u00a0is available for signature as well.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A team roster is required to be turned in at event check-in.<\/p>\n<p>See\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/resources\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/resources\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGswW4wNKD-nHtXGshtsH6ccBXZyg\">http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/<wbr \/>FTC\/resources\/<\/a>\u00a0under &#8220;EVENT PAPERWORK&#8221; for Consent\/Release form links and acceptable roster formats.<\/p>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">VISITING EVENTS<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>FIRST events are free and open to the general public!\u00a0If you&#8217;re a new team, visiting an event is a great way to meet area teams, see the game in action, and experience our FIRST FTC culture. A list of events can be found here:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/events\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNF4SGZMdlEOZ1p86YB0b-yV0ARIPA\">http:\/\/firstinmichigan.<wbr \/>us\/FTC\/events\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Volunteering at an event is a great way to see the program from &#8216;behind the scenes&#8221;.\u00a0Many <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/ftc-volunteer-role-descriptions.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FTC event roles<\/a> do not require any specialized skills or training. To sign up to volunteer: <a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/0By4NV3TncTpmUWI0VThvU3pKSGJralluVjRDRVFGS3prY1M0\/view?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/0By4NV3TncTpmUWI0VThvU3pKSGJralluVjRDRVFGS3prY1M0\/view?usp%3Dsharing&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNE-xMSYGtkF6hf40NaevKE71y01Hw\">Volunteer Registration Step by Step Guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">SAFETY GLASSES<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p><b>Safety glass expectations at events:<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Instilling a culture of safety is a value that every individual in the FIRST community must embrace as we pursue FIRST\u2019s mission and vision. FIRST in Michigan FTC has adopted safety as a core value of the program.<\/p>\n<p>Per Game Manual 1 &gt; Tournament Rules &gt; T15 &#8211; All Team members, coaches, and their guests must wear ANSI Z87.1 certified safety glasses while in the Pit or Competition Area. Prescription glasses with ANSI Z87.1 approved commercial off the shelf side shields are also allowed.<\/p>\n<p><b>Teams are expected to have and bring their own safety glasses &#8211; enough for each of their team members and mentors in attendance at the event<\/b>. Team members and mentors are expected to wear their safety glasses (over their eyes) at all times while in the pit area and on the competition field.<\/p>\n<p>The safety glass tables found at the entrance to the pit areas at events are for guest and visitor use only. Not for teams.<\/p>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">EVENT TIMES<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<p>Teams need to be on site at events in the\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">7:00-7:30am<\/span><\/span>\u00a0timeframe. Judging can begin as early as\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">7:30am.<\/span><\/span>\u00a0Check your event&#8217;s agenda found on the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/events\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNF4SGZMdlEOZ1p86YB0b-yV0ARIPA\">FIRST in Michigan FTC website<\/a>\u00a0page for the event. Even if your team checked-in\/completed Inspections\u00a0<span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aBn\"><span class=\"m_8331162849281476702gmail-m_-8497760851914975301gmail-aQJ\">on Friday<\/span><\/span>\u00a0(where applicable), the team still needs to be on site at the event by the stipulated time. If your team is running late, please call\/email your Event Coordinator. The Event Information page for the event contains their contact information.<\/p>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">TEAM AND ROBOT PREPARATION<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<div>A few tips on ensuring a good event experience and a well behaved robot:<\/div>\n<div>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1LtNmnZJ1NUb85ufcNA5GydCU05ptToo_VmoLS4roLgc\/pub\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1LtNmnZJ1NUb85ufcNA5GydCU05ptToo_VmoLS4roLgc\/pub&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1572429127232000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHxWzgjO08r4VUhNIomqm80nA9mPg\">Event Information for\u00a0Teams<\/a>; what to expect at an event<\/li>\n<li>The following resources are available to enable teams to prepare for and pass inspections:\n<ul class=\"c12 lst-kix_w3bqh7cun6eb-0 start\">\n<li class=\"c29\"><span class=\"c8 c0 c20\"><a class=\"c13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/robot-inspection-checklist.pdf&amp;sa=D&amp;ust=1572346455103000\">Robot Inspection Checklist<\/a><\/span><span class=\"c1 c26\">\u00a0Exactly what\u2019s used at competitions by Inspectors.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li>Don&#8217;t forget to make\/bring your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/alliance-marker-template.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alliance Markers<\/a> (red and blue); new this season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c29\"><span class=\"c8 c0 c20\"><a class=\"c13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/field-inspection-checklist.pdf&amp;sa=D&amp;ust=1572346455103000\">Field Inspection Checklist<\/a><\/span><span class=\"c0 c41\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c50 c1 c26 c52\">Exactly what\u2019s used at competitions by Inspectors.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li>Be sure to check your software versions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c29\"><span class=\"c8 c0 c20\"><a class=\"c13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/legal-illegal-parts-list.pdf&amp;sa=D&amp;ust=1572346455104000\">FTC Legal and Illegal Parts List<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"c29\"><span class=\"c8 c0 c20\"><a class=\"c13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/robot-reliability-checklist.pdf&amp;sa=D&amp;ust=1572346455105000\">Robot Reliability Checklist<\/a><\/span><span class=\"c0 c41\">\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c1 c26\">AWESOME resource!!<\/span><span class=\"c0 c41\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>Keep all batteries charged!\u00a0<\/b>Majority of robot issues at events have been traced back to a low robot batttery or low phone batteries. Bring extra batteries and chargers to your events.<\/li>\n<li><b>Good wire management:\u00a0<\/b>Robots encounter many bumps and jiggles at events which can loosen wire connections and cause communication issues. Secure all connections between phones\/modules\/batteries, strain relieve wires where needed, and no loose dangling wires (zip ties!) Visit the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/robot-wiring-guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/robot-wiring-guide.pdf&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1572429127232000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGFm9LQBGsitBKfexy1dp4sbpwnGw\">FTC Robot Wiring Guide<\/a>\u00a0for wiring best practices.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/resource-library\/ftc\/preparing-for-competition\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/resource-library\/ftc\/preparing-for-competition&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1572429127232000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHD6F5DTAOXHIAOoliTfvIuTayUHA\">Preparing for Competition<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Know the rules! Read Game Manual 1 and 2 &#8211; knowledge is power!\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/resource-library\/ftc\/game-and-season-info\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/resource-library\/ftc\/game-and-season-info&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1572429127232000&amp;usg=AFQjCNH1IOrJ19xUkvlFTH8m5zXhtDF97Q\">http:\/\/www.firstinspire<wbr \/>s.org\/resource-library\/ftc\/gam<wbr \/>e-and-season-info<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">THE ORANGE ALLIANCE<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"print-this-page\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>FTC event scores and results from across the country are accessible via this amazing resource:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/theorangealliance.org\/home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/theorangealliance.org\/home&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1541243593853000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGX4vJSHwNt6qAsWtEf6yQWvEciAQ\">https:\/\/<wbr \/>theorangealliance.org\/home<\/a>. Live stream links, where available, will be accessible via The Orange Alliance (TOA). Live streaming is dependent upon the availability and quality of the internet service at the venue and cannot be guaranteed.<\/div>\n<h5 class=\"print-this-page\"><strong style=\"color: #000000;\"><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">REGISTER YOUR TEAM<\/span><\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>Teams must be officially registered for the 2019-2020 season with FIRST HQ in order to participate in events.<\/p>\n<p>The registration guides linked below contain info on establishing a FIRST Account, setting up a team profile, inviting contacts, applying for screening, accessing the Storefront, etc. with screenshots. A quick reference guide for Team Dashboard tasks like inviting contacts, navigating the FTC Storefront is linked: <a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/1ROYI7RagsAaGJofUbxKsrX2huAHZP9BI\/view?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Team Dashboard Guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Returning Teams<\/strong><\/span> (veterans) &#8211; remember to register using your existing team number. <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/e\/2PACX-1vRynLvwi30sKCQaB9is7L3HR3VUev1upyhp95_BokiQsbBM5djGP4iG4wvF9W7cG2y-2rvG3-Clb_YD\/pubhtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MI FTC Archived Team Lists<\/a>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/veteran-registration.pdf\">Veteran Team Registration Guide<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Update team contacts &#8211; Remember to have matriculating team contacts invite their replacements before moving programs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>New Teams<\/strong><\/span> (rookies) &#8211; start the team registration process but <strong>DO NOT PAY<\/strong> for anything until applying for the <a href=\"https:\/\/usfirst.submittable.com\/submit\/6d35d136-4d6f-4645-8fc5-5483cdb2a941\/2019-2020-first-tech-challenge-rookie-team-grant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FIRST FTC HQ Rookie Team Grant<\/a>. Apply for this grant using your temporary team number which starts with &#8220;2019&#8221;.\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstinspires.org\/sites\/default\/files\/uploads\/resource_library\/ftc\/rookie-registration.pdf\">Rookie Team Registration Guide<\/a><\/li>\n<li>See rookie team grant requirements outlined below before paying for anything.<\/li>\n<li>Team Name is a mandatory field when setting up the Team Profile. If your team does not have a name yet, just fill in TBD. You can update this field at a later time once a team name is chosen.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"print-this-page\">\n<h5><strong><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">PROGRAM INFORMATION<\/span><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/h5>\n<p>Links to program information on the FIRST in Michigan (FiM) and FIRST HQ websites:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/run-a-team\/\">Run a Team<\/a>\u00a0&#8211; Addresses many FAQs<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/resources\/\">Resources<\/a>\u00a0&#8211; Links to FIRST HQ resources, parts, and vendors, logos, etc.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/grants\/\">Grants<\/a>\u00a0&#8211; information will be updated as grants become available; check back periodically<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/eblasts\/\">Team Eblast Archive<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/firsttechchallenge.blogspot.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>FIRST<\/em> FTC HQ Blog<\/a> &#8211; latest program announcements<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/info.firstinspires.org\/ftccurriculumrequest\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/info.firstinspires.org\/ftccurriculumrequest&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1560950445677000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFQ9KBniSwzcIW8WjkggPBAck3oHQ\">FTC\u00a0<span class=\"m_-8281381283462615744gmail-m_1467011168512500247gmail-m_4537880267732322813gmail-il\"><span class=\"m_-8281381283462615744gmail-il\">Curriculum<\/span><\/span><\/a> &#8211; Free\u00a0<span class=\"m_-8281381283462615744gmail-m_1467011168512500247gmail-m_4537880267732322813gmail-il\"><span class=\"m_-8281381283462615744gmail-il\">curriculum;<\/span><\/span>\u00a0can be used as a stand-alone course or as a supplement to areas where the team needs extra support.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h5><span style=\"color: #ff6600;\"><strong>PROGRAM PARTICULARS<\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n<div>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Alignment:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>In Michigan, we run a slightly different progression of programs from FIRST national. In Michigan, FTC is a middle school only program with teams comprised solely of MI middle school aged\/grade team members. Teams must be properly aligned in order to be eligible for FiM FTC grants and to participate in FIRST in Michigan FTC events.<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Team Size:<\/b>\u00a0FTC team size is capped at 15. Multiple teams out of a given school\/organization are welcome and can be eligible\u00a0for all grants. Please review grant requirements in the above linked doc.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Team Eblasts.<\/b>\u00a0FIRST in Michigan FTC team eblasts (sent from michiganftc@gmail.com) are sent to the Team Administrator and Lead Coach 1 and 2 for each team. The eblast distribution list is pulled from the FIRST Team Registration System, per FIRST HQ protocol, so additional email addresses cannot be added to the FIRST in Michigan FTC eblast list.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MDE State Grant Update\u00a0 l\u00a0 Preparing for Competition\u00a0 l\u00a0 Open Event Spots\u00a0 l\u00a0 Program Details<a class=\"more-link\" href=\"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/2019\/10\/29\/10-29-19\/\">Read More &rarr;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"nf_dc_page":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"entry","1":"post","2":"publish","3":"author-tammy","4":"has-more-link","5":"post-2203","7":"format-standard","8":"category-team-eblasts"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2203","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2203"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2203\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2226,"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2203\/revisions\/2226"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2203"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2203"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/firstinmichigan.us\/FTC\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2203"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}