World Photo by Lou Sennick Under blue skies, hundreds of visitors stroll down Central Avenue in Coos Bay over the weekend for the annual Blackberry Arts Festival. Tents and booths line both sides of the street as artists plied their wares, kids had their face painted. Visitors had plenty of food to choose from, including lots of blackberry items . Crowds also enjoyed entertainment on the main stage.

The deadline for those making helmet liners for the Oregon National Guard has been extended to Sept. 15. The crocheted or knitted helmet liners will be sent to Oregon soldiers now serving in Afghanistan.

When the liners are finished, each should be put into a Ziplock bag. A name and address of who made the liner can be included so the soldiers can respond.

The liners should be dropped off at The Wool Company, 990 S.E. Second St., in Bandon; Unity of Bandon, 50211 U.S. Highway 101; and Unity by the Bay, 2100 Union Ave., in North Bend.

Those who have completed liners and are unable to drop them off, or need wool yarn to complete the liner, those interested can call Unity of Bandon at 347-4696.