U.S. Third District Congressman Frank Lucas welcomed Altus native Reid Nichols to his Washington, D.C. office this week as Nichols begins his summer internship with the congressman.

Nichols, a 2002 graduate of Altus High School, will be working in Lucas' Washington office during May and June. He will participate in day-to-day operations in the

congressional office, such as assisting the staff with legislation, research, and constituent correspondence.

"Reid is sure to have an exciting summer in our office," Lucas said. "He'll be exposed to a variety of issues affecting Oklahoma and will gain a much better understanding of the legislative process."

In addition to assisting Congressman Lucas, Nichols will also attend congressional hearings, lead constituents in tours of the U.S. Capitol, participate in symposium events for interns, and tour points of interest in Washington.

Nichols just completed his sophomore year at Western Oklahoma State College and will continue his studies in the fall at the University of Oklahoma, where he will pursue a major in political science. He is the son of Mark Nichols and Mitzi Dickerson of Altus.

Congressman Lucas is currently accepting applications for fall internships. Students who would like to apply can contact his Washington office at (202) 225-5565, or visit his web site at www.house.gov/lucas and click on the link "Services."