Soroptimist International of Coos Bay has embarked on its fourth-annual project to bring oral hygiene products into the Bay Area elementary schools.

According to a press release, the program has benefited 64 percent of the area’s students in kindergarten through fourth grade. The wants to provide toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss and brushing instructions to 2,200 elementary school-age students this year.

The organization has set a Jan. 31 deadline to gather the kits. Businesses and organizations can donate any of the mentioned items or cash. Soroptomist International will be contacting businesses during the week of Nov. 13 to determine if they are able to participate. For more information or to donate, call 297-3425 or 269-8108.

Verger hosts talk

State Sen. Joanne Verger will discuss her expectations for the 2009 Legislative session at the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Independent Business Operators luncheon forum Wednesday in North Bend.

The forum lunch will be at 11:30 in the Salmon Room at The Mill Casino-Hotel. To reserve a seat, call the chamber at 266-0868.

Volunteers sought

The Coos Bay School District needs volunteers to serve on its Budget Committee. Two positions are available, with one term expiring June 30, 2009, and another expiring June 30, 2010.

Prospective committee members must live within the district boundary and should provide a letter of interest by Nov. 10 to board chairwoman: Kathy Murray, Coos Bay School District, P. O. Box 509, Coos Bay, OR, 97420.

For more information about the committee, call the superintendent’s office at 267-1309.

Advising offices open

Southwestern Oregon Community College is opening its early advising for winter term classes on Thursday.

Those interested in registering for courses at Southwestern to work toward a degree can contact their advisors to make appointments. Those without advisors can get one  by stopping by the Student Support Services office in Stensland Hall on the Coos Bay campus or by calling 888-7405.