Oklahoma State Senate
Communications Division
State Capitol
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
405-521-5774

For Immediate Release: February 27, 2008

It’s Official; Duncan is the Crapemyrtle Capital of Oklahoma

Lt. Gov. Jari Askins had the honor of being acting Governor of the state the day her hometown of Duncan claimed a new title—the Crapemyrtle Capital of Oklahoma. Senate Concurrent Resolution 44, by Sen. Anthony Sykes and Rep. Dennis Johnson, won final passage Wednesday at the State Capitol. Sykes represents Duncan in the State Senate, and said he was extremely pleased that both chambers approved the measure unanimously.

“In preparation for the Centennial, the Beautification Committee of Dream Duncan’s Destiny urged citizens throughout the city to plant crapemyrtles, including along the highways and main thoroughfares, helping make Duncan an even more beautiful place to live, work, play and visit,” said Sykes. “The citizens have earned the title of Crapemyrtle Capital of Oklahoma, and now it’s official.”

Rep. Dennis Johnson was the principal House author of the measure, and said SCR 44 will help the community’s efforts to promote economic growth.

“We’re so excited that we’ve had the opportunity to designate Duncan the Crapemyrtle Capital of Oklahoma,” said Johnson, R-Duncan. “We’ve had great success with our economic development efforts, and this is another piece of the puzzle in promoting our community. As we look for ways to bring more families and businesses to our city, this designation will help us market Duncan.”

Because Gov. Brad Henry was out of state, Lt. Gov. Jari Askins was acting Governor when SCR 44 won its final passage in the Legislature.

“I was born and raised in Duncan, and it’s still my home. I am so proud of what my friends and neighbors there have been able to accomplish,” Askins said. “On behalf of the people of Duncan, I want to thank Senator Sykes and Representative Johnson for carrying this measure, and the entire Legislature for joining in its passage.”

For more information contact:
Senator Sykes' Office:  (405) 521-5569