Curry County Federated Republican Women The Curry County Federated Republican Women met May 9 at the Holiday Inn Coffee Shop. The meeting was called to order by President Carolyn Shipley, who offered an opening prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Shipley invited guests and members to introduce themselves. Bertha Wells spoke on behalf of Michael Wells, who was running for probate judge. Diane Mains, a candidate for magistrate judge in Division I, and Magistrate Judge Rick Hollis, candidate for re-election in Division II, introduced themselves. Bob Cornelius, campaign coordinator and policy manager for write-in gubernatorial candidate Dr. George Bailey Jr., updated the members. Candidate for sheriff Matt Murray introduced himself, as did District Attorney Matt Chandler and Twila Rutter. Members were informed early voting in the primary election was extended through June 2. Absentee ballots were to be received by the end of Election Day on June 6. Curry County Republican Chairman Rube Render informed the group of a senatorial debate in Albuquerque on May 16. Immigration issues and the possibility of redistricting in eastern New Mexico were discussed. The treasurer filed the required PAC Report and the secretary’s minutes of the April meeting were presented. Maxine Kelso, GOP Women team captain for American Cancer Society Relay for Life, reported on the event and was thanked. Curry County Treasurer Rhonda Bookout presented the program, discussing her goals of improved efficiency and cohesiveness within the treasurer’s office staff. Bookout presented current yield reports for Curry County operating funds and the account validation report. In new business, the group decided not to sponsor an entry in June’s Pioneer Days Parade in favor of individual candidates entering on their own. Members were reminded of the Fair Booth project coming up in August. Twenty-three members and guests attended the May meeting. The next meeting will be Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn. Friendship Rebekah Lodge Friendship Rebekah Lodge met May 23 at the IOOF Hall. The hostess was Vicky Howard. New officers were elected. Vicky Howard is lodge deputy; Evelyn Calder, district deputy president; and Wanda Scott, representative, with Illene Luther as alternate. Final plans were made for the Pioneer Days Parade float. The float will feature a trailer pulled by a 1957 renovated Farmal tractor. The Rebekahs are embarking on a campaign for new members. They meet on the second and fourth Tuesdays each month at the IOOF Hall, 405 Main St. For more information call Vicky Howard at 762-4843. The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Mary Dorris will be the hostess.