Message From State Auditor & Inspector,
Jeff McMahan
 I deeply appreciate the OLTA for its steadfast commitment to the industry. Without your dedication, our job would be far more difficult.
As you may know, we're working on a cost-effective way to conduct periodic industry-wide plant inspections, so we can ensure that each company is conducting business according to established rules and regulations. We're considering the idea of developing a pool of abstractor volunteers who would serve as inspection team members. Conceptually, each team would consist of a State Auditor employee as team leader (probably Tim Arbaugh, Jim McGoodwin or Jennifer Needham) and three randomly selected abstractors from the pool of volunteers.
Volunteers would be vetted for conflicts of interest three ways. First, we'll consider known conflicts, such as ownership or family relationships. Second, prospective team members would be asked if there's any reason why they should be excluded from the targeted inspection.
Finally, the abstract company could challenge any of those selected. With good cause shown, we'll replace them with another who would then go through the same process. Team members would sign a contract that includes a privacy statement. We're interested in your comments and questions concerning this proposal, so please let us know what you think.
The 100-year anniversary of the Oklahoma Land Title Association will occur in the year 2007. What an accomplishment! To commemorate this event, OLTA is publishing a 100-year history book that will include a short paragraph about all abstract companies in Oklahoma. But, we can't do this without your help. It may seem that 2007 is a long time away, but the years seem to be flying by. Here is what you can do to help. All abstract companies should submit the following:
- A photograph of your company, including the outdoor business sign. Employees can be included in the picture or not.
- Any old pictures of your original company.
- A photograph of the court house in your county seat.
- A short paragraph on the history of the company including the date it was originated.
- Any other pertinent information about your company that you deem important.
It would be helpful if the pictures are submitted on CD; however, printed photographs will be accepted. Coordinating this effort is Donna Schmulbach. Send the pictures and information to Donna c/o Warranty Title & Abstract, Inc., 108 N. Rock Island, El Reno, OK 73036. Questions? Do not hesitate to contact Donna at (405) 262-3093.
"OLTA ABSTRACTOR'S HANDBOOK" AVAILABLE
Did you know that the OLTA Abstractor's Handbook has been completely revised by the ever-diligent OLTA Education Committee? It has taken an enormous amount of time and energy to update this valuable tool not only for those needing to take the test, but to have on hand as an office resource at your finger tips.
If you or your employees need the newest version, log on to the OLTA website at www.oklahomalandtitle.com to order your handbook. Or, you may contact the OLTA office at 405/840-1944. The cost per book is $45.50, which includes the binder, the contents and the shipping. After we receive your payment, we will fill your order and ship the book(s) directly to your office. All offices really need this valuable tool in the office.
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