End of the Year Fun!

Saturday, June 19, was another bright and early day for the Gaelhawks. Team members were gathered outside of the Echo Hose Ambulance Corps, armed with sponges, power washers, and towels, ready to take on the cars coming to be washed. This 4th Annual Robotics Car Wash began at 9 in the morning and lasted until 1 in the afternoon, leaving most team members soaked and sunburned, but still happy. The team was blessed with good weather for most of the morning, with the exception of one small shower which actually brought the team even more cars. The Gaelhawks left the car wash with approximately 00 from tickets and generous donations given by our supporters.

The day wasn't over yet, however. Team members relocated to former co-Captain Alicia Cox's house for the end of the year picnic, where food and fun were abundant. Teachers, engineers, parents, and students alike came to end the year with a bang. The Gaelhawks could be seen swimming in the pool, playing Frisbee in the front yard, and soaking each other with water balloons for most of the afternoon.

As is traditional with Team 230, awards were given out towards the end of the picnic. Members who had been involved with the team for two years were awarded their letters, and three and four year members were given bars to signify their role on the team for multiple years. Kristin Lundberg was given the Unsung Hero award, Steve O'Connor was given the Spirit Award, and Samantha Lipscomb was given the Media Technology Award. The Talon Award went to two deserving members, Matt Aylward and Steve Symski. Mr. Gomes was awarded the Founder\'s Award, an award given to a volunteer who exemplifies the spirit of FIRST. Yet again, the engineers came together and awarded Alicia Cox a 00 scholarship to contribute to college funds. All of the award recipients deserved their awards entirely - congratulations!

Former captains Alicia Cox and Mike Persico presented teachers, engineers, and parents with thank you cards and team photos, as well as gift certificates to Lucibella for the teachers. Claire Szeker then gave each senior a personalized gift, filled with jokes from all of their years on the team. We will all miss our seniors, and we know they will experience success in the future. Next year's captains were announced as Matt Aylward, Steve O'Connor, and Steve Symski.

Congratulations to you all! The year ended on a wonderful note, but we are all sad to see it end. There are events scheduled for the summer, and the Gaelhawks are looking forward to them. We can\'t wait for the season to start again!