Durant FFA members Bailee Varner, Gentry Phillips and Elliana Partain are shown at the annual chili dinner last week at the Clay Jones Community Center. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

Among protesters last week at Market Square was Dr. Jennettie Marshall, who is a candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

Durant High School history teacher LeaAnn Wyrick reacts after learning she was named the district-wide Teacher of the Year. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

Jan. 21 was declared P.E.O. International Founders Day in Durant during a Durant City Council meeting last week. P.E.O members Barbara Rackley, Priscilla Washington and Marjorie Richardson are shown with Durant Mayor Martin Tucker, City Manager Pam Polk, Vice Mayor Mike Simulescu and council members Danny Sherrer and Humphrey Miller. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat

There was a ribbon cutting last week to celebrate the renovation of the Market Square Cafe on North First Avenue in downtown Durant. Matt Swearengin | Durant Democrat