(Marietta, GA) In honor of Earth Science Week Oct. 10 -16, Southern Polytechnic State University and the Georgia Youth Science and Technology Centers are sponsoring a special "Ask the Scientist" contest. Dr. Lisa Rossbacher, president of Southern Polytechnic State University and a planetary geologist, will be the special guest scientist during Earth Science Week's "Ask the Scientist" competition Oct. 10 -16.

During that week, students can access the Georgia Youth Science and Technology Center website (www.spsu.edu/gystc/), write in and ask the president a question about Earth Sciences. At the end of the week, the Georgia student asking the best question will be awarded a special NASA gift packet including CD-ROMs, books and posters.

To enter, access the website (www.spsu.edu/gystc/), click on the Students Only link, then the Earth Sciences link, and ask your question. Please include your name, age and school. All questions will be answered within five business days. The contest is open to Georgia students under the age of 14.

Founded in 1989, Georgia Youth Science & Technology Centers, Inc., is a private, non-profit educational organization designed to increase interest and enthusiasm in science and the technologies, particularly among elementary and middle school teachers and students. GYSTC is affiliated with Southern Polytechnic State University. GYSTC has established regional centers, which provide staff development workshops and programs for teachers as well as assemblies, activities and camps for students. Since 1992, The Georgia Youth Science & Technology Center at Southern Polytechnic State University has also provided the state with a NASA Educator Resource Center and FAA Aviation Education Resource Center. The two programs make it possible for Georgia teachers to obtain videotapes, lesson plans, posters and a variety of other materials, which are kept current by NASA and FAA.

For more information, contact (678) 915-7222