Robotics demonstrations and an introduction to this year's upcoming competition are planned as part of a FIRST LEGO League (FLL) open house Saturday, August 17, 1-4 p.m., in SUNYIT's Student Center multipurpose room.

"In addition to LEGO Mindstorms demonstrations, the event will feature both FIRST Lego League and FIRST Tech Challenge robotics teams," said Elizabeth Rossi, tournament chair. "Experienced coaches and participants will be on hand to talk about making the most of this upcoming FLL season, and we will also preview the 2013 Robot Game."

This season's FLL theme of "Nature's Fury" challenges FLL children to explore the topic of natural disasters from several perspectives, summarized as: "Be Prepared. Stay Safe. Rebuild." At a tournament, FLL teams will attempt missions on the FLL Tournament Table related to natural disaster preparedness, safety and recovery. Participants will share research project presentations based on their own real-world research and innovative ideas for solutions.

As the official FLL Partner for the region, SUNYIT will host a championship tournament on Saturday, December 7, in the Wildcat Field House, followed by an FTC Qualifier on Sunday, December 8. For more information about FIRST Lego League at SUNYIT, please visit fll.sunyit.edu or email fll@sunypoly.edu.

FIRST LEGO League (FLL) is an international program for children ages 9-14 that combines a hands-on, interactive robotics program and a research presentation with a sports-like atmosphere. Teams consist of up to 10 members and focus on such things as team building, problem solving, creativity, and analytical thinking. More than 200,000 young people from more than 50 countries are expected to participate in FLL in 2013-2014. Founded in 1989 by inventor and entrepreneur Dean Kamen, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a New Hampshire-based not-for-profit organization which seeks to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology through programs that motivate the pursuit of education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.

SUNYIT, the State University of New York Institute of Technology at Utica/Rome, is New York's public polytechnic, offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs in technology and professional studies. Its academic offerings in technology, including engineering, cybersecurity, computer science, and the engineering technologies, and its programs in professional studies, including business, communication, and nursing, are complemented by athletics, recreational, cultural and campus life programs, events and activities. Founded in 1966, SUNYIT is a unique high-tech learning environment on hundreds of acres, offering degree programs online as well as on campus. The SUNYIT family of alumni now numbers 25,000.