Lawmakers Honor Late Senator

OKLAHOMA CITY - Praising his many accomplishments in both the public and private sectors, The Oklahoma State Senate paid tribute this week to former State Senator H.B. Atkinson. Atkinson passed away on January 27.

Adkinson's many achievements were recounted in the chamber where he served from 1965 through 1970, with the passage of Senate Resolution 49.

Senator Dave Herbert was among those paying tribute to Atkinson.

"H.B. Atkinson spent a lifetime in service to others; whether it was as a businessman creating jobs for Oklahomans, bettering his community through civic organizations, helping found Rose State College, or his work as a public servant in the State Senate, his presence and involvement had a tremendous impact on the lives of thousands," said Herbert, D-MWC.

Atkinson built the first house in Midwest city in 1942, and eventually built more than 600 homes.

He was also one of the builders and developers of the Lockheed Shopping Center and the builder and owner of the West Atkinson Plaza and West Akinson Center shopping areas. He also built and operated Midwest City's first auto garage and auto dealership.

Atkinson also helped organize the Midwest City Lions Club, the town's first civic organization and held many leadership roles throughout his lifetime.

After his tenure in the State Senate, Atkinson served as consultant to the Governor on the subject of wildlife conservation.

"Few people in this state can match H.B. Atkinsons numerous accomplishments. It is fitting that the State Senate should pay tribute to such an outstanding Oklahoman,'"said Senator Herbert.