Dustin George spent nine years as a mechanic in the United States Air Force. So what does he recall most about his time helping to keep the skies over the nation and throughout the world safe?

“I was pretty jealous of the pilots,” George admits.

After leaving the Air Force, George embarked on his own flying career. He gained certification as a pilot for both helicopters as well as airplanes.

Planning on taking to the skies later this year? If so, now is the time to do the paperwork needed to keep from getting stranded at the airport.

The clock is ticking for Oklahomans to become compliant with the REAL ID Act, which sets standards for licenses common in all 50 states.

“It’s optional at this point, but if you are planning to board a plane or go into a federal building, you will need either a REAL ID or a government-issued passport,” said Ashley Abshire of El Reno Tag Agency.

While they will have their “thumbs” against the wall, El Reno High School’s Academic Team is not planning to back down from anyone as the Indians are prepping for a return to the state tourney.

El Reno was one of eight teams to earn a ticket to the Class 5A State Academic Bowl, to be held Feb. 6 at Rose State College in Midwest City.

The other seven schools at state will be Bishop McGuinness, Altus, Tulsa Edison, Carl Albert, Lawton MacArthur, Tulsa Bishop Kelley and Tahlequah.

Voters will go to the polls Tuesday, Feb. 9 for the State Senate 22 Primary Election, City of Oklahoma City Ward 1 Council Member Election, City of Oklahoma City Ward 3 Council Member Election and Riverside School Board Member Election, Canadian County Election Board Secretary Wanda Armold said.

Armold said voters should keep the following information and tips in mind as the election approaches.