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Sheriff warns of unsafe ice conditions

Schebil cautions that ice may appear to be thick but is actually weak, and cannot support even the lightest loads.

"Normally, three to four inches of ice will support people and their recreational vehicles," Schebil said in a written statement. "However, the warm weather and rain is turning that ice into slush, which is very dangerous."

In case a person falls through unstable ice, Schebil advises individuals to pull themselves out of the water and to crawl on their stomachs to safety.

The sheriff's department advises those people who witness someone falling through the ice to remain on land and not to attempt a rescue. Schebil said witnesses should call 911 immediately and stand by to direct rescuers to the scene.

Visa scholarship essay contest underway

Visa's scholarship essay contest on the Internet, which began last week and runs through April 7, gives contestants an opportunity to win either $2,500 or $5,000 in university scholarships.

Students who are currently enrolled in universities or colleges around the country are eligible.

Students can enter the contest by writing a 500-word response to Visa's question and by sending an e-mail message to essay@loci.com. Contestants may also submit their essays through Barnes and Noble Bookstore's LOCI World Wide Web Site at http://www.loci.com.

All entries should include the essay, along with the entrant's full name, address, city, state, ZIP code, e-mail address and phone number at the top of the document.

Volunteers needed for Michigan State Fair

Volunteers also will be needed for two weeks before the fair opens to help with exhibit entry, answering phones, painting and other tasks that will help with pre-fair set up.

Some of the areas with which volunteers will be able to work during the fair include information booths, telephone information, merchandise sales, parking, food service and general office help.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, and the state fair requests that volunteers donate a minimum of four shifts, which are four to six hours in length. Shift times are flexible.

In return for volunteering, all participants will receive a free pass and free parking for each day of the fair, complimentary tickets for their immediate family, shirts and pins. Meals are provided for volunteers if they are scheduled to work during lunchtime hours.

Those interested in volunteering for the fair should call Julie Ilacqua or Lorne Perry at (313) 369-8250 to request an application.

-- From Daily staff reports