NEWS RELEASE - March 26, 2007

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE FLU? - FRIDAY'S LUNCHEON LECTURE TOPIC

North Central Michigan College's Luncheon Lecture this Friday, March 30, in
Petoskey will feature a briefing from the American Red Cross on a predicted
influenza pandemic. The speaker will be Tom Ritchie, health and safety
coordinator for the agency's Northern Lower Michigan Chapter.

Scientists have warned that there is a significant possibility of a pandemic
but they cannot accurately predict when it will occur. The American Red
Cross has taken on the role of working with communities on pandemic
education.

Tom will present background information about the predicted pandemic and
outline the steps that people can take to protect their families. Tom has
been an ARC instructor for 30 years and is a retired police officer from
Lakewood, Colorado.

Friday's program will take place at noon in the Library. Reservations are
preferred. Call 231-348-6602 or e-mail <mailto:cmacinnis@ncmich.edu>
cmacinnis@ncmich.edu to reserve your place at the table. Cost is $9, lunch
included.

North Central Michigan College is an open-door community college based in
Petoskey. Through its University Center partnerships, students can take
courses leading to certificates, bachelor's and master's degrees from
participating universities. North Central's Institute for Business &
Industry Training offers non-credit job skills training tailored to meet
individual needs. In addition to its main campus in Petoskey, North Central
offers classes, academic advising, testing and other services in Cheboygan,
Gaylord and East Jordan.

For more information:
Charles MacInnis
231-348-6839