Griffin, Anderson and Breit for College of Lake County

As the economy sours and displaced workers need to reinvent themselves, places like the College of Lake County will play a key role.

This community college stands in good financial shape with an eye toward expanding to meet the demands of the marketplace and desires of students. Incumbents William Griffin and Richard Anderson should be returned to the board to help oversee these plans.

Challengers Charlie Breit and Amanda Howland each have strengths. Breit has attended the college and campaigns on a convincing platform bursting with ideas that will complement the institution's already solid plan for the future. He wants to help the college use technology to better communicate with the public and offer more educational opportunities such as on-demand classes.

Howland brings considerable education and life skills as an educator, administrator and attorney. She previously ran for state representative and we liked her independent thinking.

However, we favor Breit's connection to the college, his commitment to transparency, his enthusiasm and his ideas.

Challenger Leamon Austin did not return our questionnaire or phone calls to participate in the endorsement process. Challenger James Creighton Mitchell Jr., who ran for U.S. president in the 2008 election, currently holds seats on the Lake County Regional Board of School Trustees and the Lake Villa Public Library board. The Daily Herald does not support candidates who would serve on two elected boards simultaneously.

We endorse Griffin, Anderson and Breit for the three open 6-year seats.