2005 will be a busy and exciting year for ASME. Plan now to participate through special events or programs in your communities, locally and professionally.

Sample press release (.doc) for Founders Day

	2005 SCHEDULING TIPS:
Plan at least one special event during 2005, which brings together ASME members and friends, industry, engineering-school students and faculty, and those in the community that share your interests, such as journalists and civic groups.	Founders Day: February 16, Wednesday Boiler Code Day: March 12, Saturday Heritage Day:  April 7, Thursday

• Make of list of everyone you want to celebrate with.
• Pick the times and places likely for you to come together.
• Start to contact various groups to brainstorm ideas.

Remember that Engineers Week, special contests (such as Future Cities, FIRST Lego, or human-powered vehicles), programs such as e-mentoring, and other events will be occurring during the year and take the opportunity to get more involved.

Help research and write articles for publications, newsletters, and websites that highlight the history of ASME in your community.

Make the most of your year by reaching out to the community beyond ASME, by including public service alongside your regular activities, and by inviting news media to your events.

Outreach Ideas:

Present a certificate of appreciation or donate time or gifts to a favorite public cause to specially recognize the efforts of engineering-related people in your community, such as teachers, journalists, or students.

Create a speakers bureau from your ASME group, section, or division, by exploring the special interests in your area:

• develop a list of topics and gather appropriate handouts that will stimulate interest in engineering
• select engineers who enjoy speaking and have time to arrange travel
• contact local civic organization for presentations, lectures, or demonstrations

Organize a guided tour that emphasizes engineering achievements in the community.

Hold an open house at your workplace, for students and the public, including special invited speakers and exhibits.

Work with local engineering schools to help student activities focus on special activities.

Be sure to write about your activities for the local reporters and send us a copy, to show how ASME celebrated its 125th anniversary. Send a photograph of your event for the scrapbook.