Spring 2012 Classes

Lakeshore Community Enrichment Classes

Keep Your Computer Purring

Does that one-time-fast computer seem to be slowing down? Learn what slows down a computer and how to install and use free tools to correct the problems. During this hands-on workshop you will learn how to restore your computer to its optimum performance.
Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge
One session Tuesday, March 20, 7 to 9 PM in RM 124 at Lakeshore High School, $16

Backing Up Your Computer

If the hard drive in your computer failed today, (which does happen) would you lose all your documents, emails, and pictures? You can be prepared for computer disasters such as hard drive failures or damage to your operating system. In this hands-on workshop you will learn how to plan and perform a backup strategy. You will learn about backup software, how to use media such as DVD, USB drives, or external drives, and about the option of online backup.
Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge
One session on Tuesday, March 27, 7 to 9 PM in RM 124 at Lakeshore High School, $16

Creating a Website

Would you like to have a website for personal or business use? Create one without buying software, hiring a web developer, or paying web hosting fees. If you already own a domain name you may use it or purchase a unique one for a small annual fee. In three hands-on sessions, you will learn how to register for this service, start, and maintain your own website. To see samples of sites you could build, see the Services page at www.mytechhelper.net.
Prerequisite: Beginning Computers or equal knowledge level and basic internet skills.
Three sessions on Thursdays, April 26 & May 3 & 10, 7 to 9 PM in RM 124 at Lakeshore High School, $48

Do It Yourself Computer Repairs or Upgrades

Are you hesitant about opening up your computer or laptop and working on it? In this three-hour class you will gain hands-on experience and the confidence you need to open your computer to clean out the dust, add memory, or install new components such as hard drives, power supplies, or expansion cards. There will also be some instruction on working on laptops. You will have time to practice on a computer and can even bring your own computer to work on. (For questions about this class, call the instructor at 428-7226.)
Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge
One session on Thursday, May 17, 6 to 9 PM in the library at Lakeshore High School, $24

Cornerstone Alliance Classes

Design Your Own Small Business Website

Create a website and have it hosted on the internet without buying software or hiring a web designer (There are minimal annual fees if you wish to register a unique domain name). In these two sessions, you will learn how to register for the service, start, and maintain your own website. (2 locations)
Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge
Two sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, March 14 and 15, 6-8 pm, at Cornerstone, $45
Two sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, April 11 and 12, 6:30-8:30 pm, Dowagiac, $45 (location and dates to be confirmed)

Taking Your Website to the Next Level

If you have already created a Google website and would like to learn how to improve it, this two-hour class will train you on some advanced topics. Learn how to edit images, create graphics such as buttons and banners, and use a tool for a professional-looking slide show. You will also receive an introduction to Google Analytics, a free service to help monitor traffic to your site. There will also be time to ask questions about Google Sites.
(2 locations)
Prerequisite: Basic computer knowledge
One session on Wednesday, March 21, 6-8 pm, at Cornerstone, $20
One session on Wednesday, April 19, 6:30-8:30 pm, Dowagiac, $20 (location and dates to be confirmed)

To reserve your place in class, please call Small Business Services at Cornerstone Alliance at 269-925-6100 or
1-866-477-9922.