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.

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

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.

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. 

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.

Southwestern Oregon Community College is announcing its academic excellence, honor roll and dean’s lists for summer term.

The president of the Coos Bay School District’s classified union has seen a lot in the more than 30 years she’s spent in the district. She’s been a cook, a librarian, a bus driver, an educational assistant and a secretary.

Students at North Bay Elementary School met their principal, Colleen Reeves, at the front door for Tuesday’s start of the school year.