September 3, 2003

The Michigan Education Trust (MET) and Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP) celebrated the kickoff of College Savings Month today, by unveiling the Top 20 "College Savings Friendly Communities" in Michigan, during a news conference in the State Capitol.

"MET and MESP provide excellent opportunities for Michigan families to save for a loved one’s post-secondary education," said First Gentleman Dan Mulhern. "The communities we recognize today have helped lead the way in planning for the future and making college more affordable."

Mr. Mulhern was joined by State Treasurer Jay B. Rising and Michigan State University women’s basketball coach Joanne P. McCallie in recognizing representatives of the Top 20 communities.

The Top 20 college savings friendly communities, based on the combined total number of MESP and MET accounts owned by residents, are:

MET, launched in 1988, currently holds more than $900 million in trust for its 68,000 contract purchasers. MESP manages more than 92,000 accounts, with 11,890 created with state matching funds. Since its inception in 2000, MESP has total assets of more than $436 million.

Both programs offer state income tax deductions for Michigan residents and state and federal tax-free growth when the money is used for higher educational expenses.

Throughout the month of September, families around the state will be recognized as the driving force behind College Savings Friendly Communities. Celebrations are scheduled for Grand Rapids, Bloomfield Hills, Ann Arbor, and Midland.

Adults and children will receive information about MET and MESP while enjoying the museum and free refreshments at the following events:

West Michigan celebration: Sept. 6, Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 22 Sheldon Avenue NE, Grand Rapids. Cake, ice cream, and refreshments will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Southeast Michigan celebration: Sept. 13, Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills. Cake, ice cream, and refreshments will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ann Arbor-area celebration: Sept. 20, Ann Arbor Hands on Museum, 220 East Ann Street, Ann Arbor. Cake, ice cream, and refreshments will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tri-City Michigan Celebration: Sept. 27, Midland Center for the Arts, 1801 W. St. Andrews Rd, Midland. Cake, ice cream, and refreshments will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The MET and MESP programs can be used separately or together to help save for post-secondary education. For more information on MET call 800-MET-4-KID (800-638-4543) or visit www.met4kid.com . You can contact MESP (toll free) by calling 877-861-MESP or visit www.misaves.com .