It seems all we are hearing in the state news is about the economy and the state budget. For the past two weeks, the House of Representatives has conducted budget hearings with all state agencies and commissions. These meetings are usually held in January, but are being held a month early to try and get a better feel on how the agencies are faring amid the 5 percent per month cuts they have been dealt this year.

I have had several great experiences in District 47 over the past few weeks. Mustang Schools asked me to participate in their “Principal of the Day” program, and I was assigned to Mustang Middle School with Principal Linda Wilkes.

Grady County Treasurer Robin Burton says, “Well, it is that time of year again, property taxes. We have recently mailed out tax statements, but if you have not received yours, please contact our office. I want everyone to understand the importance of paying your taxes in a timely manner.

Congratulations are in order for the following employees who were names “2006 Tellers of the Year” Deisy Lara, Sherry Lokey, Natasha Johnson, Kelly Graham, Michelle Miller, Francene Coffman, Stacie Rogers, Frankie Hudson, Mary Ann Real and Susie Wilson.

Dale Daniels has announced that Reynolds Ford - Norman would join Ford Motor Company's first-ever commitment of $1 million in annual support to the National FFA Foundation (formerly known as the Future Farmers of America).

Peggy Oberfield, an associate with Marolyn Pryor Realtors, was recently spotlighted in the Oklahoma edition of Broker Associate magazine with a “Rising Star Profile.”

The Boards of Directors of Cyril State Bank, Cyril, Okla. and The First National Bank and Trust Company (FNBT), Chickasha, Okla. are pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached whereby Cyril State Bank (CSB) will be acquired by The First National Bank with an anticipated completion date scheduled for the end February 2007.

The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 requires that by January 1, 2008, all U.S. citizens have a valid passport or other secure, accepted document, in order to enter or re-enter the United States.