More than 300 U.S. Census field jobs are available to Mackinac County residents, said census office manager Vicki Bruff. With the first round of training sessions planned Sunday, February 21, Ms. Bruff is eager to fill as many positions as possible.

So far about 145 Mackinac County residents are eligible to fill 449 positions. Anyone who would like to work full-time is encouraged to do so, she said.

Ms. Bruff attributes lack of interest in the jobs, which pay from $11.25 to $14.25 an hour with mileage, to concerns that people who are hired will lose their unemployment benefits. The best thing to do is to take the test to become eligible for the job, she advises, and then speak with your case worker to see how the job would affect the claim. The unemployment claims line is (866) 500- 0017.

Jim Clapperton, Mackinac County coordinator for Michigan Works!, said unemployment claimants could receive a diminished amount of money if they accept a Census job. If the claimant knows how much he typically collects and what he would receive from the Census job, then the Michigan Works! office can find out how the job would impact the claim. The Michigan Works! office in St. Ignace may be reached at 643-8158.

Anyone who is unemployed should take the Census test to become eligible for the job, Mr. Clapperton advises, because it is possible the job could lead to other employment opportunities.

"We would certainly encourage anyone to run with it," he said.

Many of the jobs available are field positions where workers will follow up on households that do not mail their Census survey information back. Ms. Bruff plans to hire residents to work in the area they live in. Those interested in applying may call the Ishpeming office at (906) 464-6236.

Those who have taken the test may call Ms. Bruff's assistant, Wendy Manzoline, at (906) 464- 6130 or (906) 464-6000 to see if they are eligible for a Census position.

Ensuring everyone is counted for the Census is important, Ms. Bruff said, as each person not included in the Census can mean a loss of $1,260 per year for the county. Since the Census is taken every 10 years, that translates to a total loss of $12,600 per person, she said.