Tom Todd, D--Campbell, said Thursday, "I am looking forward to continuing to serve the people of District 163. This past year has been a joy to travel to the District renewing old acquaintances and making new ones.

According to Todd, this election year will old several critical issues before both the House and Senate. "Leadership on both sides of the aisle agree these issues will include education funding for both elementary and secondary and for higher education; health care; illegal immigration; and solutions to the increasing tax assessment of citizens' property taxes," Todd said.

One idea Todd particularly wanted constituents to be aware of is that Congress has mandated broadcasting in analog to cease on Feb. 17, 2009. "Over 20 million households still rely on the over-the-air broadcasts," Todd said. "After Feb. 17, 2009, broadcasts will be digital to ensure that state and local emergency responders have an adequate spectrum to communicate and respond to disasters.

"Because digital is used in a smaller segment of the spectrum, it will free additional spectrum for public safety and private enterprise."

Todd emphasized that, in response to this change, Congress has created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households keeping their analog television sets. The converter boxes are expected to cost between $50 and $70 each, Todd said.

Folks can apply for up to two $40 coupons per household, Todd said, "on a first-come-first-serve basis that can be used to purchase the analog-to-digital converter box."

Todd continues, "If you own an analog television, you can purchase an analog-to-digital converter box, purchase a digital television, or subscribe to a cable or satellite system. If you use the converter system, it should improve your picture and sound quality.

Todd said that USDA Rural Development will be recognizing three cities in District 163 that have received Federal funding from USDA Rural Development. Anita J. Dunning, Acting Missouri State Director of USDA Rural Development, will present mock checks to the City of Clarkton, the City of Campbell, and the City of Malden.

Clarkton will receive $6,243 in Community Facilities Grants to purchase fire equipment. Campbell will receive $35,855 in Community Facilities Grants to purchase a police vehicle and fire equipment. Malden will receive $33,000 to purchase a warning siren.

Todd encouraged constituents who have concerns or issues they're interested in to discuss them with him.

Todd can be reached at tom.todd@house.mo.gov or at (573) 751-4095 or (866) 439-1445.

To order a analog to digital converter, call (888) 388-2009 or (877) 530-2634 or write to TV Converter Box Coupon Program, P.O. Box 2000, Portland, Ore., 97208-2000.