ASME provides many activities for its stu-dent members, but it is up to you to participate and enjoy them. On April 12 and 13, the ASME region VIII graduate student technical conference will be held at Idaho State University, College of Engineering. A tour to some local companies will be organized. The intention of the conference is to encourage students to present on-going research projects, it does not matter how far along the projects have been carried through. It is an ideal place to exchange research ideas and to find out what is the trend and future in mechanical engineering.

I know that Idaho is a little bit far away, and the time of the conference is not convenience for most of you. But, if by any chance, you are interested in it, please take a look at the ASME bulletin-board downstairs in the lab to find out the details.

Engineering students are good writers who can present logically and clearly. Here is a chance for you to show your intelligence. The 1997 Arthur L. Willistion Award Contest is asking for your papers, and the top prize is $1,000 (US). A paper in the area of civic service is required, and this year's topic is `Virtual Reality in Mechanical Engineering', a subject of local, regional, and national interest. Maybe you can find out some old paper you wrote in one of those ENSC-10x classes and give it a final magic touch. You may win $1,000, and also a Williston certificate, travel and expense allowance for two days at the 1997 International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition. Not a bad package, eh?! The paper is due by February 15, 1997, so you have plenty of time to work on it and make it perfect.

Once again, more information can be found on the ASME announcement board. Finally, ASME society night will continue at the very beginning in the Summer semester, so please come out and enjoy it. Reminder: first years can still join ASME for free!