A little less than two months ago, the Calhoun Times announced plans to branch out its online communications with readers. Since that time the Calhoun Times staff has worked to combine social networking tools such as Facebook and Twitter to bring readers news fast and efficiently.

The Calhoun Times presence on both sites has grown significantly, particularly on Facebook, where more than 700 fans ”linked in” in less than two months.

In an effort to reach a broader audience in the digital age while still maintaining the integrity of the print edition, the Calhoun Times will be giving away one free subscription to the 1000th Facebook fan.

“I think it is great to be able to reach out to readers who want to receive news on the go and utilize such tools as Facebook,” said Tricia Dillard, Calhoun Times chief photographer and Facebook administrator.

Readers who have a Facebook account can do a quick search for the Calhoun Times on Facebook, Users will then be prompted to become a fan. The 1000th fan will be notified through Facebook that he or she is the winner of one free subscription; his or her photo will be featured in the paper.

The Calhoun Times will also soon be launching several other interactive programs such as the “Question of the Week” where readers can more readily share their opinion on local and state issues.