Your chance to meet Bill Gates

You could meet the chairman of Microsoft, but you'll have to profess a passion for Windows first. Microsoft is looking for true stories about people using Windows computers to pursue a passion or hobby. The company plans to use them in a marketing blitz tied to the 20th anniversary of Windows' debut. To entice essay submissions, Microsoft is offering a number of prizes, including the chance to meet Gates in Seattle and appear in the ad campaign. Other prizes include an overseas trip with National Geographic Expedition, VIP access to a major movie premiere and a home makeover with an HGTV designer.

Essays must be 300 words or less. Extra points are given to essays that demonstrate the positive impact Windows has made on someone's life. Microsoft will select winners in five categories: culture and community, music, memories, home and lifestyle, and sports and games. To win, you must be at least 13 years old, live in the United States, and enter by Sept. 30. Microsoft plans to select winners in October.