Southwestern Oregon Community College invites aspiring college students and their parents to attend College Night in Oregon from 6 to 9 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 23.

Within the last week, two grandparents from opposite ends of the country e-mailed to say that they regularly buy books for their grandchildren based on my reviews. Of course, I’m very flattered. But more than that, their selfless acts of generosity is an inspiring testimony of the value these grandparents place in reading and helping their grandchildren connect with books they will enjoy.

LAS VEGAS — My good friend just found out she is pregnant with a boy. It is her first child, and instead of celebrating the good news, she cried during her ultrasound.

Leanne Italie, Associated Press Writer

It’s no surprise that public libraries are as strapped for cash as everyone else. That doesn’t mean, however, that your local library isn’t purchasing new children’s books.

Having moved five times in the last nine years, Pam Syx, now of Venice, Fla., had many opportunities to chuck some of her two children’s artwork along the way.

The Coos Bay Elks Lodge is taking applications for the 2010 Elks National Foundation “Most Valuable Student” scholarships given to graduating high school seniors. The application deadline is Nov. 2. 

The Guerin Memorial Essay Contest is open to all Coos County youth from seventh through 12th grades. The topics for the contest will be a choice of three resource conservation scenarios provided by the directors of the Coos Soil and Water Conservation District.

The National AMVETS has invited Shante McTimmonds to attend an all-expense paid trip to Valley Forge, Pa., to participate in the Spirit of America youth conference Nov. 5-8.

ASSE International Student Exchange Program is looking for volunteers to serve as area representatives in their local community.

Coos Bay resident and Western Washington University student Alatasi F. Clancy, wife of Dan Hiestand and daughter of James and Fa’asei Clancy, received a $5,000 John D. Blankinship Scholarship for the 2009-10 academic year.

Marshfield High School senior Markus Boesl has been named a National Merit Scholarship semifinalist. He, along with about 16,000 students around the country, is still in the running for a $2,500 National Merit scholarship, as well as various college-sponsored awards.

Jordan Lofton of Coos Bay placed in second place at the Oregon State Fair in the middle school division of the Oregon Statewide Spelling Championship, according to a press release.

BANDON — Former Cranberry Festival Queen Julia Braun, a 2001 graduate of Bandon High School, has joined Teach For America. She’s headed for New Orleans.

REEDSPORT — Cody Savey really, really wants to work for a professional sports team.