U.S. Congressman Dan Boren has opened a district office in Durant, and a ribbon cutting was held Wednesday afternoon.

A large crowd estimated to be more than 300 people turned out for the event. This is the first time for a congressman to have a Durant office. The office opened last month, and it is located at 112 N. 12th Ave.

Boren, a Democrat representing Oklahoma’s Second Congressional District, was welcomed by city officials who declared Wednesday as “Congressman Boren Day” in Durant.

Mayor Jerry Tomlinson said Boren is a “true friend” who makes him feel at home.

“I never felt like a stranger with Congressman Boren,” Tomlinson said.

City Manager Jim Dunegan presented him with a ceremonial key and joked that the key might not keep him out of jail, but that it was a nice key.

Choctaw Nation Chief Gregory Pyle then introduced Boren, who is now in his third term as a congressman.

Boren spoke about the city’s economy and the number of jobs that keep coming to Durant.

“I always wanted to open an office in Durant,” Boren said. “It is one of the brightest spots in the district.”

Boren introduced his field representative Joe Hill and his office caseworker Scott Smith.

He said the office will serve not only Bryan County but also surrounding counties, and will be open to the public.

“Please call our office,” Boren said. “It will be an open-door policy ready to serve you. If we can help with the community or the entire district, our doors are open.”

To contact Boren’s office, call 931-0333.