Help with education expenses is available by applying for the many scholarships available nationally and from local sources in West Michigan.

According to a news release in the Ludington Daily News, the Optimist Club of Scottville is sponsoring an essay contest with a $500 scholarship as top prize.

The club will judge local students' essays, based on the theme of "How My Postitive Outlook Benefits My Community" and determine the top winners. Winners will receive $500 for first place, $100 for second place, and $50 for third place.

The winning essay will then be sent to the district level and be judged again before the top district entries are sent to the international level.

Students wishing to participate in the essay contest are to simply follow the rules on applications given to their high school counselors.

Contact Erin Doan at 757-3115 or erin@erindoan.com. Applications are due to Doan by February 3rd at 5pm.