LCI has become the leading advocacy group , in the public or private sector, for Lake Champlain. As a board member I'm extremely pleased to see LCI's public perception evolve from a fishing derby promoter to a leader in the restoration and preservation of Lake Champlain. Hopefully, more people will become to understand the value of the lake and the need for more people to become stewards of this wonderful gem of nature. Thanks to those of you who have made the decision to assume a role of stewardship in this cause. It is apparent that many of you have chosen to support LCI with your time and your money. A great way to express your stewardship.

I have been both fiscally and physically involved with LCI for the past several years. They are the sole environmental group to which I donate my time and money. Simply because they are far and away the most influential and productive organization involved in restoring and protecting Lake Champlain.
I must admit to a love affair with this grand lake. It was that love that caused me to become a resident of Vermont, after many years vacationing here. At no time am I happier and at peace than when I'm on the lake.
In addition to what it means to me personally, I also recognize the enormous economic engine that the lake is for the state of Vermont. Fishing people , like myself, contribute over $200,000,000 to the economy each year. In 2009 professional bass tournaments run out of Plattsburgh, N.Y. generated an estimated $8,400,000 to the PLattsburgh economy.