The role Michigan's community colleges play in workforce training has so far kept state legislators from cutting community college budgets.   President Harrison noted the College is grateful for the support we have received and relieved the $400,000 cut to LMC in Renaissance Zone funding was not included in a final package of budget recommendations.  Still, serious concerns about the State's fiscal health next year remain.  "Our challenge", said Harrison, "is to balance conservative budget planning with investments in our infrastructure while keeping our instructional programs at the cutting-edge of quality and innovation."

Energy Production Technology is the College's fastest-growing degree offering on campus. More than 190 students are enrolled with their sights set on helping our area to become a national leader in renewable, clean, alternative energy. Now, beginning this Winter, the College will expand its program to include programs in wind energy and utility line mechanics to support our region's energy delivery systems.

The annual "Bruno Ride" has raised more than $32,000 for the Bruce Zech Scholarship at LMC. Zech, who owned B&Z Excavating, was killed on the job in 2005. To honor his memory, Zech's wife Patty and a group of friends and relatives organized the annual event which attracts more than 100 area motorcyclists. Proceeds from the event provide scholarship support for students at Berrien Springs, and other area high schools. "Bruce was not able to go to college," said Patty, "but he always wanted to help others, especially kids. This event is a great way to remember him, and to help students at the same time."

Created to recognize Bob Harrison's appointment as president, and to raise money for student scholarships, the Bob-B-Que achieved its objectives. More than 600 people attended and more than $4,000 was raised for student scholarships. President and Janine Harrison and the LMC Foundation pledged to match each dollar contributed to the scholarship fund with an additional two dollars, up to $2,000. During the event, participants enjoyed picnic fare, visited the LMC Alumni Bazaar to purchase LMC logo wear and other items, played games for children that were hosted by LMC athletes, and everyone listened to Duke Tumato and the Power Trio.
Special appreciation to our event sponsors: Beaudoin Electrical Construction, Inc., Chemical Bank, Competitive Edge, Express-1, Gordon Food Service, Hanson Group, Perry Ballard, Inc., Taylor Rental.

The Lake Michigan College story is really a collection of stories about our students, alumni and friends.  We would like to tell those stories to our community. Stories of success, service to community, or country, special obstacles one had to overcome to attend LMC; these types of stories and more are welcome. Please share your stories by emailing Sue Lister. Include the person's first and last name, a few sentences about why this person has a compelling/feel-good story to tell, and a way to contact the person- phone number/email address or both.

Join a discussion about Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Michigan's economic outlook with Rick Snyder, retired president and COO of Gateway, Inc.; and current Chair of the Board and CEO of Ardesta, a leading company in bringing small technology products to the global marketplace.
When: Monday, October 26, 2009
Time: 3 - 4 pm:  Presentation and Discussion
Informal reception with Mr. Snyder immediately following
Where: LMC Mendel Center - Upton Hall
To RSVP, call or email Kathy Tebell at 927-6197
For more information about Mr. Snyder and Ardesta go to www. Ardesta.com