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SPOILED FOR CHOICE Arts scene offers music, theater and much more SERVING THOSE WHO SERVED Muskogee appreciates its armed services veterans Looking Ahead Love of heritage guides vision for downtown Muskogee SPONSORED BY THE GREATER MUSKOGEE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2013 | LIVABILITY.COM/MUSKOGEE ® MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA

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Surrounded by rivers, lakes, gardens and woodlands, Muskogee offers a host of reasons to get outside and play. The northeastern Oklahoma city, about 50 miles southeast of Tulsa and 50 miles west of the Oklahoma-Arkansas border, is home to two city school districts, several colleges and two hospitals, including the first hospital in the nation designed to earn EPA’s Energy Star for superior energy performance. With numerous arts centers, historical sites and museums – including the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame – it's no wonder so many residents are proud to be an Okie from Muskogee.

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Page 1: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

Spoiled for choice Arts scene offers music, theater and much more

Serving thoSe who Served Muskogee appreciates its armed services veterans

lookingAheadLove of heritage guides vision for downtown Muskogee

SponSored by the greAter muSkogee AreA chAmber of commerce

2013 | livAbility.com/muSkogee

®

muSkogee, oklAhomA

Page 2: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

Tourism Information:310 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401(918) 682-2401www.muskogeechamber.org

Economic Development InformationP.O. Box 2819 Muskogee, OK 74402(918) 682-7887www.muskogeedevelopment.org

Chamber of Commerce Information310 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401(918) 682-2401www.muskogeechamber.org

Muskogee is … Home of a castle, a submarine and the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame

Home to the International Port of Muskogee

One of the state’s largest manufacturing cities

Page 3: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

Retail Development Information310 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401(918) 682-2401www.muskogeechamber.org

The regional retail hub

One of the top 10 most affordable cities

Oklahoma’s capital for motorcycle tourism

Page 4: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

Tourism Information:310 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401(918) 682-2401www.muskogeechamber.org

Economic Development InformationP.O. Box 2819 Muskogee, OK 74402(918) 682-7887www.muskogeedevelopment.org

Chamber of Commerce Information310 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401(918) 682-2401www.muskogeechamber.org

Muskogee is … Home of a castle, a submarine and the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame

Home to the International Port of Muskogee

One of the state’s largest manufacturing cities

Page 5: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

Tourism Information:310 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401(918) 682-2401www.muskogeechamber.org

Economic Development InformationP.O. Box 2819 Muskogee, OK 74402(918) 682-7887www.muskogeedevelopment.org

Chamber of Commerce Information310 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401(918) 682-2401www.muskogeechamber.org

Muskogee is … Home of a castle, a submarine and the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame

Home to the International Port of Muskogee

One of the state’s largest manufacturing cities

Page 6: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

2 Muskogee LivAbiLit y.coM/Muskogee 3

muSkogee, oklAhomA

®

editoriAl project mAnAger mitch Kline

content director lisa battles

proofreAding mAnAger Raven Petty

content coordinAtor Jessica WalKeR

StAff writer Kevin litWin

contributing writerS Peggy aRnold,

baRbaRa biehleR, Joe moRRis

Senior grAphic deSignerS stacey allis,

lauRa gallagheR, KRis sexton,

JaKe shoRes, viKKi Williams

grAphic deSignerS eRica lamPley,

KaRa leiby, Kacey PassmoRe

Senior photogrApherS Jeff adKins, bRian mccoRd

StAff photogrApherS todd bennett, michael conti

color imAging techniciAn alison hunteR

integrAted mediA mAnAger Will Zanetis

Ad production mAnAger Katie middendoRf

Ad trAffic ASSiStAntS KRystin lemmon, PatRicia moisan

chAirmAn gReg thuRman

preSident/publiSher bob schWaRtZman

executive vice preSident Ray langen

Senior v.p./SAleS todd PotteR

Senior v.p./operAtionS casey hesteR

Senior v.p./client development Jeff heefneR

Senior v.p./buSineSS development scott temPleton

Senior v.p./AgribuSineSS publiShing Kim holmbeRg

v.p./buSineSS development clay PeRRy

v.p./externAl communicAtionS teRee caRutheRs

v.p./viSuAl content maRK foResteR

v.p./content operAtionS natasha loRens

v.p./trAvel publiShing susan chaPPell

v.p./SAleS Rhonda gRaham,

heRb haRPeR, JaReK sWeKosKy

controller chRis dudley

Senior AccountAnt lisa oWens

AccountS pAyAble coordinAtor maRia mcfaRland

AccountS receivAble coordinAtor diana guZman

SAleS Support coordinAtor alex maRKs

SAleS Support project mAnAger saRa quint

SyStem AdminiStrAtor daniel cantRell

web creAtive director allison davis

web content mAnAger John hood

web deSigner ii RichaRd stevens

web development leAd yamel hall

web developer i nels noseWoRthy

photogrAphy director JeffRey s. otto

creAtive ServiceS director chRistina caRden

creAtive technology AnAlySt becca aRy

Audience development director deanna nelson

new mediA ASSiStAnt alyssa dicicco

diStribution director gaRy smith

executive SecretAry KRisty duncan

humAn reSourceS mAnAger Peggy blaKe

receptioniSt linda bishoP

Images Muskogee, Oklahoma is published annually by Journal communications inc. and is distributed through

the greater muskogee area chamber of commerce and its member businesses.

for advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact

Journal communications inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at [email protected].

for more informAtion, contAct:greater muskogee area chamber of commerce

310 W. broadway • muskogee, oK 74401Phone: (918) 682-2401 • fax: (918) 682-2403

www.muskogeechamber.org

viSit Images muskogee, oklahoma online At livAbility.com/muSkogee

©copyright 2012 Journal communications inc., 725 cool springs blvd., suite 400, franklin, tn 37067,

(615) 771-0080. all rights reserved. no portion of this magazine may be reproduced

in whole or in part without written consent.

member the association of magazine media

member custom content council

member greater muskogee area chamber of commerce

Page 7: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

2 Muskogee LivAbiLit y.coM/Muskogee 3

2012-13 edition | volume 8

muSkogee, oklAhomA

®

contents

Features

12 looking AheAdlove of heritage guides vision for downtown muskogee

18 Spoiled for choicearts scene offers music, theater and much more

24 Serving thoSe who Servedmuskogee appreciates its armed services veterans

24

12

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42

on the cover the Chickasaw Warrior statue stands in the quad at bacone college in muskogee. Photo by michael conti

departments

8 Almanac

30 biz briefs

32 chamber report

33 economic profile

34 See the city

39 health & wellness

40 Arts & culture

42 local flavor

45 Sports & recreation

46 education

48 community profile

2012-13 edition | volume 8

muSkogee, oklAhomA

®

All or part of this magazine is printed on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

pleaserecyclethismagazine

Page 10: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

6 Muskogee

We Love Having You Here!

3100 Military Blvd.Hwy. 69 & 62 Junction Muskogee, OK 74401

(918) 682-2587 tel(918) 683-0249 fax

www.muskogee.hamptoninn.com

For reservations, call: (800) HAMPTON

• High-speed Internet

• Business center: Computer, fax and copier

• Indoor heated pool, sauna and spa

• Exercise room

• Free local calls

• Complimentary breakfast

• Microwave/refrigerators in all rooms

• Hair dryers in all rooms

• Coffee maker in all rooms

• Iron/ironing board in all rooms

3031 Military Blvd. • Muskogee, OK 74402(918) 687-9000 • (918) 683-0212 fax

Banquet/Meeting Rooms

Saddle Club Bar & Grill

Indoor Pool & Hot Tub

Breakfast Included

Jacuzzi Suites

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Page 11: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

6 Muskogee

See more great photos of Muskogee in our online photo galleries.

Flip through the pages of this magazine and easily share articles using Facebook, Twitter or email.

Photos

Digital magazine

SPOILED FOR CHOICE Arts scene offers music, theater and much more

SERVING THOSE WHO SERVED Muskogee appreciates its armed services veterans

LookingAheadLove of heritage guides vision for downtown Muskogee

SPONSORED BY THE GREATER MUSKOGEE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2013 | LIVABILITY.COM/MUSKOGEE

®

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA

Facts Get the most up-to-date info on cost of living, top employers, schools, population demographics and more.

living hereLearn the basics about local neighborhoods, schools and health-care providers.

viDeoWatch quick videos of local attractions.

What’sonlinelivability.com/muskogee

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Welcome to MuskogeeAn introduction to the AreA’s peopLe, pLAces And events

the spirit’s historic homefirst baptist church is a mixture of a spiritual congregation

and a building that has become a historic fixture in muskogee.

the church’s building was constructed in 1903 and includes

a distinct Romanesque Revival style with two asymmetrical,

crenulated towers and a steep gabled roof. the building’s age

and unique features helped first baptist land a spot on the

national Register of historic Places in 1984. While the church’s

building is aged, the congregation is taking a new approach to

its ministry by offering programs designed to engage members

including a summer camp for children, a motorcycle club and

an annual car show. learn more at www.fbcmuskogee.org.

almanac

carrying a citydavis field airport has operated continuously since

1942 to serve both civilian and military aircraft. davis field

encompasses 1,622 acres and contains a 7,200-foot lighted

runway that can accommodate numerous types of aircraft

ranging from light passenger airplanes to heavy-duty,

mass-transport jets. davis field was originally built to

serve as a ground air support base for the government,

but it was released to muskogee in 1967. since that time,

davis field has become a hub of commercial activity for

muskogee as the airport is located just five miles south of

the city, and the majority of the airport’s traffic consists

of corporate jets and medium to light duty aircraft. learn

more at www.cityofmuskogee.com.

When the summer temperatures

soar, muskogee residents flock to

the River country family Water

Park to cool off. River country is

open daily between memorial day

and labor day each year, and it

offers several water-oriented activities

including crawdad corner, an

interactive water playground for

younger children; frog Pond, which

is the primary leisure pool; and

Whoop’n holler hollow, which features

two water slides that empty into frog

Pond. River country also provides

a complete concessions menu that

includes everything from burgers

and corn dogs to funnel cakes and

super pretzels. find more information

at www.cityofmuskogee.com.

a summer oasis

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Rooting for the underdogthe bare bones film festival is an annual endeavor,

held each april, that supports the efforts of independent

motion picture makers around the country by showcasing

their creative works and providing a central place for

actors, writers, producers, directors and financiers to

network. bare bones screens films with budgets of less

than $1 million and includes a number of genres including

narratives and documentaries, short stories and student

films, music videos, animations and live screenplay

readings. in addition to the motion picture-oriented

activities, the festival also features live music, numerous

car shows, and several receptions and after-parties.

see more at www.barebonesfilmfestivals.org.

honoring the veterans

muskogee’s War memorial Park

and military museum is home to the

uss batfish, an american submarine

that launched in 1943, which was the

height of combat in World War ii. the

batfish helped protect american troops

by successfully tracking and sinking

several enemy ships including at least

three enemy submarines. the actions

of the batfish crew earned several awards

including nine battle stars, one navy

cross, four silver stars, 10 bronze stars

and one Presidential unit citation. in

addition to the batfish submarine itself,

the park contains several general items

honoring veterans of all wars such as

battle flags, photographs and crews’

personal effects, to name a few. for more

information, visit www.ussbatfish.com.

lighting up christmas

the christmas season offers a special

treat for muskogee residents and visitors

with the annual garden of lights display.

this event takes place at the honor heights

Park, a 122-acre park that muskogee

purchased in 1909. each christmas season,

honor heights is decorated with an array

of christmas lights to transform the park

into a winter wonderland called the garden

of lights. spectators are invited to drive

through the park free of admission to enjoy

the brilliant display, which regularly includes

more than one million lights. the garden of

lights display is usually available for viewing

between dusk and 10 p.m. from thanksgiving

through new years eve get more

information at www.cityofmuskogee.com.

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FastFactsn the earliest record of a girl scout cookie sale is by Muskogee’s Mistletoe troop, which sold cookies as a service project in 1917.

n Muskogee is home to the oklahoma school for the blind.

n the thunderbird speedway is one of the largest dirt tracks in the state.

n history buffs can enjoy a day at the Fort gibson historical site, which is a registered national historic Landmark.

Muskogee Tpk.

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Muskogee

MUSKOGEE City

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Muskogee

What’sonlineTake a virtual tour of Muskogee, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at livability.com/muskogee.

populAtion (2010 eStimAte)muskogee: 39,223

muskogee county: 70,990

locAtionmuskogee is in northeastern

oklahoma, about 50 miles southeast

of tulsa and 50 miles west of the

oklahoma-arkansas state line.

beginningSmuskogee traces its origins back to

1872 when the missouri-Kansas & texas

Railroad became the first rail line to

cross indian territory. the town was

named for the muscogee creek tribe

that long inhabited the area.

for more informAtiongreater muskogee area chamber

of commerce and tourism

310 W. broadway

P.o. box 797

muskogee, oK 74402

Phone: (918) 682-2401

toll-free: (866) 381-6543

fax: (918) 682-2403 www.muskogeechamber.org

muskogeeataglance

Roasting the competition

every year muskogee spices things

up with its annual chili and barbeque

cook-off. muskogee celebrated the

cook-off’s 28th year in april 2012 thanks

to the muskogee exchange club, which

sponsors the event. in addition to

the competition-grade chilies and

barbeques, the cook-off delivers fun

with pony and camel rides, inflatables,

live entertainment and a dedicated kids’

zone. the cook-off has grown to include

competitions for numerous chili and

barbeque categories including pork ribs,

hot link and brisket, to name a few. it

now draws a regular attendance of about

15,000 spectators, which gives area

businesses a welcome economic boost.

visit www.exchangeclubmuskogee.org

for more information.

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While Muskogee’s appeal to new businesses and residents continues to grow, community leaders remain focused on preserving what attracted

them to the city in the first place. Historic preservation reigns in the mindset of Muskogee community planners.

“Our mission is to energize and revitalize the downtown area, but at the same time, we are very dedicated to preserving our heritage and passing that pride on to our children,” says Jonita Mullins, executive director of Downtown Muskogee Inc.

Nine buildings in downtown are listed on the National Historic Register. Muskogee is also a Main Street community and has been named one of the Dozen Distinctive Destinations by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

promoting preservation by exampleAware of the city’s long-term goals of historic

preservation and downtown development, attorney Bob Locke purchased and renovated five downtown buildings nearly a decade ago in hopes of luring additional businesses to the downtown area and inspiring others to do the same. Today, those five buildings house professional offices, a restaurant and the chamber of commerce.

“I saw an opportunity to help the downtown area by making an investment in building renovation. It has been good for me, and I hope it has been good for Muskogee,” Locke says.

While downtown Muskogee offers multiple options for businesses, there are also a variety of entertainment and shopping opportunities. Festival

downtown muSkogee: love of heritAge guideS viSion

Looking

AheadstoRy by peggy ArnoldPhotogRaPhy by michAel conti

the Manhattan building in downtown Muskogee received a $7.4 million renovation and now offers apartments.

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enthusiasts will not want to miss Heritage Days, an annual celebration of Muskogee’s American Indian origins and today’s cultural diversity that includes music, food and reenactments. The outhouse races are also an annual crowd pleaser.

the manhattan buildingTake a building that is eight stories tall and

a century old, pump $7.4 million into it, and what do you get?

You get a win-win result that converts a historic, but abandoned, downtown building into beautifully restored apartments for seniors. While updating and modernizing the building, developers took great care

to preserve the historically significant aspects of the space, breathing new life and usefulness into a piece of Muskogee’s heritage.

Community planners continue to explore similar uses of other historic downtown buildings for conversion into loft-style urban apartments for young professionals.

Airport development efforts take wingWhile downtown development is an important

component of the city’s economic development efforts, expansion of Muskogee’s industrial and manufacturing base is also key to the community’s healthy growth.

Davis Field Airport rambles more than 1,600 acres,

A couple walks through downtown muskogee.

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providing ample space for the establishment of industrial facilities. The airport is owned by the city of Muskogee and is primarily utilized by private aviation-based companies. Approximately 60 aircrafts are housed at Davis Field and are owned by corporations, health-care providers and private flight enthusiasts; and there is abundant room for expansion.

The next major goal for Davis Field Airport is the establishment of a flight training school, a vision shared by airport manager Garry Lynn and Brien Thorstenberg, Director of Business & Economic Development for the Muskogee City-County Port Authority.

Although there is no commercial passenger service

available at Davis Field Airport, the available land and infrastructure can certainly support it in the future. For now, airline passengers take a short drive of approximately 50 miles to Tulsa International Airport.

bacone college: growth honors legacyWhat began as a two-year college in 1880 has

matured into a fully accredited four-year institution of higher learning with multiple locations. Today, Bacone College offers cross-listed courses with tribal colleges Pawnee Nation College in Pawnee, Okla., and Comanche Nation College in Lawton, Okla., to boast an annual enrollment in excess of 1,300 students. Open to all students, Bacone maintains its mission

roger kimball, an employee at davis field Airport in muskogee, works on a 1941 t-6 aircraft.

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of providing faith-based educational opportunities for Native Americans.

The campus recently expanded to incorporate a former strip shopping center, clearing the way for a new campus gateway and renovated spaces for the Merritt Betts Library, and a 96,000-square-foot student center. The student center also houses a bookstore, workout area, offices and an indoor event area, complete with artificial turf.

“By obtaining and converting this former retail space, it has allowed us to free up other areas on campus to expand our offerings for student housing and services,” says Robert Duncan III, an adjunct instructor at the college.

bacone college was established in 1880 and now serves more than 1,300 students.

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the Surety building in muskogee was renovated in

2005 to offer apartments.

historicmuskogee:bythenumbers

9 number of buildings listed on the national

historic Register in downtown muskogee

130+years bacone college, which

was established in 1880 and is

oklahoma’s oldest continuing higher education

institution, has served students in muskogee

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the muskogee civic center

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one could be forgiven for thinking that Okies from Muskogee only listen to music in their downtime. Sure, there’s no shortage of musical talent, and the

places to showcase it here – but that’s just one of many, many entertainment options that residents enjoy. Here are a few of Muskogee’s hot spots that pack in visitors and locals alike:

oklahoma music hall of fame & museumHoused in the beautifully renovated Frisco Freight

Depot, OMHOF showcases the pioneers and innovative styles that Oklahoma offers, as well as an ever-growing collection of items that showcase the

muSkogee’S ArtS Scene offerS muSic, theAter And much more

stoRy by joe morriSPhotogRaPhy by michAel conti

ForSpoiLed

choice

right: childen involved in a summer camp explore the oklahoma Music hall of Fame & Museum.

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state’s rich musical history. For the kids, there’s a red caboose that doubles as an interactive educational facility.

Symphony in the parkHonor Heights Park is the place to be every

summer, when the Muskogee Parks and Recreation Department presents the annual Symphony in the Park. Take a picnic dinner and be sure to stick around for the fireworks.

muskogee little theatreSince 1972, theatergoers here have laughed,

cried and everything in between thanks to the Muskogee Little Theatre. The season begins in July, and offers a mix of comedy, drama and musical fare during a run that’s anywhere from three to seven shows year round.

the roxy theaterThe Roxy opened in 1948 as a movie theater.

Today its charm is still on full display with art deco glass and tile, fully restored original seats and neon. Performances include theater-style live productions, musicals and family style movies, as well as a growing roster of concerts and other events.

muskogee farmers’ marketOn Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon,

nature’s bounty is on full display at Okie Square by the Muskogee Civic Center. The farmers’ market features fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs, plants, crafts and much more, including monthly special events.

muskogee civic centerThis downtown venue has been at the heart

of Muskogee’s cultural life since 1966, and recently

clockwise from left to right: Faces of those inducted into the oklahoma Music hall of Fame grace the walls of the facility; entertainer and music educator Micheal rappe performs for a group of children at the oklahoma Music hall of Fame & Museum; Muskogee residents gather downtown at the civic center for a jazz performance; A fiberglass guitar located on n. Main street is part of the Muskogee rhythm guitar project, which was created to beautify the downtown area.

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Helping Families Succeed

MuskogeeCountyCouncilofYouthServices

MCCOYS improves the lives of families through quality prevention and intervention services.

Muskogee County Council of Youth Services addresses societal problems which directly affect the lives and well being of the youth and families in the communities that we serve and to provide counseling, prevention, treatment services and to network with local agencies in order to empower youth and families to develop adequate coping mechanisms to solve current or future problems through the following programs:

Community At Risk Services • Drug Court • First Offender Program

Juvenile Drug Court • Muskogee Area Alternative Site Outpatient Behavioral Health Services • Host Homes

Outreach Program • Substance Abuse Services • Girls Group Home

Muskogee County Regional Juvenile Detention Center

(918) 682-2841 www.mccys.org

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underwent a massive renovation and restoration that included upgrading all mechanical and electrical systems. The civic center offers six conference rooms of varying sizes, and has a seating capacity of 3,710 on the 8,500-square-foot arena floor.

okie SquareIn the heart of downtown by the civic center,

Okie Square hosts the Muskogee Farmers’ Market, Bluegrass on the Square and many other cultural and civic events throughout the year.

muskogee rhythmsIf you’ve done a double take after seeing a huge

fiberglass guitar (or two) around town, you’re not alone. The Muskogee Rhythms Guitar Project, spearheaded by the Muskogee Area Arts Council, was designed to showcase arts and culture in the area. The project, which received recognition as an Official Oklahoma Centennial Project, has been immortalized in Muskogee Rhythms, a book by Dr. David Jones that showcases the installations and raises funds for downtown beautification.

dusk til dawn blues festivalR&B’s the thing at this annual event, which

was started by D.C. and Selby Minner after they relocated to Oklahoma in 1988. The first festival drew around 700 people and a handful of bands, and that’s now grown to a two-day outdoor event in Rentiesville with 30 bands from around the region, country and globe.

bars and honky tonksWhen it comes to nightlife, Muskogee has you

covered. For live music, head to Max’s Garage where the bands usually begin gearing up at 9:30 on Friday and Saturday nights. In addition, 64-Y Club features live music from a variety of bands, such as Music Solution, and also hosts jam nights.

Prefer to grace the stage yourself? Check out Legends Saddle Club and Frog Wild Saloon, both of which are known for their karaoke nights and require no cover charge.

Muskogee also provides great places to dance including The Wild Cowboy, a nightclub that features a 1,000-square-foot dance floor.

left: the roxy theater, which opened in 1948, now offers theatrical productions, musical events, movies and more. right: travis dix and tawny easterling rehearse their roles in The Music Man at the Muskogee Little theatre.

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muSkogee AppreciAteS itS Armed ServiceS veterAnS

serving those Who

served

LivAbiLit y.coM/Muskogee 25

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reggie Hardy is an armed services veteran from Chicago who moved to Muskogee several years ago to work at the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center. Hardy

says he wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.“I play racquetball at a Muskogee church and it’s

nice to occasionally relax on Fort Gibson Lake, but working at the VA hospital is what I enjoy most,” he says. “The care at the hospital is exceptional. I get my physicals there, too. I often ask fellow veterans about how they are treated at the hospital, and have never heard anyone say anything negative. They receive quality care and attention at Montgomery.”

Muskogee has a long history of being an attractive place for veterans to live and work, and continues that tradition to this day. The city has an appreciation for history and a strong cultural presence, plus there is a multitude of diverse restaurants, recreational opportunities and continuing education options.

Greg Sorenson, chief of voluntary services at Montgomery VA Medical Center, says the community embraces its veteran population.

“The Veterans Affairs Regional Office is actually one of Muskogee’s largest employer, and combined with the hospital is the city’s largest employer,” Sorenson says. “The veteran-friendly environment in Muskogee also extends to nearby Fort Gibson National Cemetery, which is a well-visited tourism attraction whose focus is also the military.”

friendly neighborsSorenson is a native of Fargo, N.D., who came to this

city with his family in 1998. He says there are several reasons why he has enjoyed his 15 years in Muskogee.

“It’s a good place to raise a family, with church-going citizens and friendly neighbors,” he says. “There is a small-town environment, yet we are close enough to Tulsa to also enjoy big-city amenities.”

stoRy by kevin litwinPhotogRaPhy by michAel conti

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He adds that there are several annual events aimed toward the veterans’ population.

“They include a Ride for the Vets Bike Rally where all registration money goes toward veteran causes, and a 2013 Valentine’s Day Concert that will star country music star Aaron Tippin,” Sorenson says. “It’s a good life being a veteran in Muskogee.”

retiring in muskogeeRick Dennis is an Air Force vet who today is park

manager at the Muskogee War Memorial Park & Museum, home of the USS Batfish submarine. The memorial is an 8-acre park with a military museum.

“Our main attraction is the USS Batfish that sank 14 enemy vessels in World War II, including three submarines in 72 hours,” Dennis says. “Besides the memorial, a lot of everyday life in Muskogee is connected to the armed services. There is a Civil War battlefield in Honey Springs, and Honor Heights Park

is named in honor of veterans. There is also plenty for veterans to do, and a lot of armed services personnel are retiring in Muskogee.”

Dennis says veterans have access to fishing on five lakes that surround Muskogee, and hunting is a popular activity during all four seasons. Muskogee has a marina for launching boats, and Greenleaf State Park is ideal for camping thanks to an assortment of rentable cabins.

“Veterans here receive the respect they deserve,” Dennis says. “Muskogee is proud of those who served and are serving today.”

previous page: the “spirit of the American doughboy” statue at Jack c. Montgomery vA Medical center in Muskogee from left to right: the uss batfish submarine & War Memorial; Motorcyclists enjoy the 50-mile sunset tour outside of Muskogee; kids play in honor heights park’s splash pad, which is open to the public from May through september.

What’sonlineLearn more about what life is like in Muskogee online at livability.com/muskogee. For a complete list of attractions, activities and restaurants in the area, click on “Things to Do.”

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scorecardbuSineSS At

A glAnce

$764million

Annual retail Sales

$19,274retail Sales

per capita

$81millionAnnual hotel and

food Sales

3,191total number

of firms

source: u.s. Census QuickFacts

business

Biz BriefsA sAMpLing oF businesses – LArge And sMALL – thAt heLps deFine

Muskogee’s strong And WeLL-bALAnced econoMic cLiMAte

gino’S itAliAn riStorAnte & pizzeriA-muSkogeeBiz: RestaurantBuzz: Offering authentic Italian food, Gino’s Italian Ristorante & Pizzeria-Muskogee features menu items such as fettucini alfredo, chicken sorrentina, lasagna, spaghetti and more. Lunch specials are available Monday through Friday, and the restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m.www.italianrestaurantmuskogee.com

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Supporting our community isn’t just a project.

It’s a promise.

This is where the 1,000 men and women who make our tissue live work and play.

Over the years, we have given more than $1,000,000 to our local schools, volunteer firefighters, museums, parks and many

non-profits. We are one of the Lake Area United Way’s largest contributors and have a long history of supporting the local March of Dimes.

We are proud to call Muskogee home.

wheeler metAlSBiz: Metal distributorBuzz: Established in 1968, Wheeler Metals provides a variety of products including metal buildings, expanded metal, fence supplies, rebar, race car accessories and more. The company’s Muskogee location houses approximately 40 acres of new and used steel, continuously accruing more in order to meet each customer’s needs. Wheeler Metals also offers delivery services Monday through Friday.www.wheelermetals.com

economy phArmAcyBiz: Prescription drug providerBuzz: Catering to its customers’ busy lifestyles, Economy Pharmacy works to fill prescriptions quickly. The locally owned and operated pharmacy also provides online prescription refills and delivers prescriptions. Customers who opt to pick up their prescriptions can enjoy complimentary fudge while they wait and can peruse the pharmacy’s gift shop stocked with candles, jewelry and other items.www.economypharmacy.com

cAgle’S flowerS & giftSBiz: Florist and gift shopBuzz: Cagle’s Flowers & Gifts offers fresh flowers, plants, silk arrangements and more, and provides gift items such as fruit baskets, greeting cards and candles. The shop also creates f loral arrangements for weddings, funerals and other events. Cagle’s Flowers & Gifts is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m.www.caglesflowers.com

citizenS Security bAnkBiz: BankBuzz: Citizens Security Bank opened in 1906 in Okmulgee and now operates 13 locations, two of which are in Muskogee. The bank offers personal and commercial checking accounts, home loans, auto loans and more. Savings accounts such as IRAs are also available. Account holders can access their financial information electronically through mobile and online banking, as well as e-statements.www.citizenssecurity.com

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[email protected]

business

chamberreportchAMber hAs neW president

the greater muskogee area

chamber of commerce now

has treasure mcKenzie serving as

its president and ceo, following

the retirement in 2012 of sue

harris, who held those offices

for the past 10 years. mcKenzie

has been a staff member with the

muskogee chamber for 12 years.

“i was the tourism director

for the past six years, and

tourism will still be my main

focus with the chamber even

as president,” mcKenzie says.

“alisha tanksley, who has been

here six years, is now vice

president with her main focus

being chamber operations.”

poWerFulorganization

mcKenzie says the chamber

provides a unified voice for local

businesses, and she believes it is

the community’s most powerful

business organization.

“We have a strong staff and

i can confidently say that the

chamber is known throughout

muskogee for being one of the

most professional organizations

and one of the most powerful,”

she says. “We work hard to be

relevant in this community.

i think it has a lot to do with

the experience and enthusiasm

of our staff.”

nurturesynergymcKenzie says that when key

decisions in the community are

being made, businesses want

the chamber at the table.

“People ask for our input

because we have so much

experience in a variety of business-

related matters,” she says. “the

chamber team has worked hard

to establish and nurture synergy

between various entities such

as economic development,

city council, county officials

and education leaders. many

communities have organizations

pulling against one another due

to personal agendas, but there is

no dissension in muskogee when

positive things need to get done.”

uniFiedVoicethe chamber has 670 members

and has good relationships with

larger chambers in nearby cities.

“the muskogee chamber wants

to continue the success we’ve had

over the last 10 years while sue

harris was in the leadership role,”

mcKenzie says. “the main goal of

this chamber will always be acting

as the unified voice for business,

and we will continue to be

problem solvers for our members.

We are the biggest cheerleaders

for member businesses.”

– Kevin Litwin

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this section is sponsored by

trAnSportAtion

AirportS

davis Field Airport

1200 sabre st.

muskogee, oK 74403

(918) 683-0699

Will rogers Airport

7100 terminal dr.

oklahoma city, oK 73159

(405) 680-3200

www.flyokc.com

tulsa international Airport

7777 e. apache st.

tulsa, oK 74115

(918) 838-5000

www.tulsaairports.com

buS Service

union-greyhound

401 W. broadway, ste. 308

muskogee, oK 74401

(918) 682-1371

www.greyhound.com

public trAnSportAtion

Muskogee county

transit Authority

4401 e. hayes st.

muskogee, oK 74403

(918) 682-1721

river

port of Muskogee

4901 harold scoggins drive

muskogee, oK 74403

(918) 682-7886

www.muskogeeport.com

oi 230 employees

county of Muskogee

250 employees

Whitlock packaging

200 employees

tAx Structure

0.65%county sales and use tax

4.0%city sales tax

4.5%state sales tax

9.15%total sales tax

income

$18,773per capita income

$46,341Average Annual household expenditure

buSineSS climAtemuskogee is the third-largest manufacturing community in

oklahoma. items produced here include machinery, rubber

items, food products and consumer goods. the city is also

an important transportation, trade and industrial center in

the arkansas River valley.

economic profile

mAjor employerS

georgia-pacific

1350 employees

Muskogee regional

Medical center

985 employees

Muskogee public school

district 850 employees

Jack c. Montgomery

vA Medical center

839 employees

u.s. veterans Administration

750 employees

dal-tile

575 employees

city of Muskogee

460 employees

Wal-Mart 450 employees

og&e electric services

270 employees

Acme engineering

251 employees

trucks For you

250 employees

green country

behavioral health

250 employees

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“The Great American Cowboy” sculpture in Muskogee.

Photo by Michael Conti

see the city

34 Muskogee

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A mural located on 250 W. Broadway St. depicts early 20th century Muskogee.

Photo by Michael Conti

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see the city

36 Muskogee

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River Country Family Water Park in Muskogee

Photo by Jeff Adkins

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visit ouradvertisersA-Avanti Self Storagewww.a-avanti.com

America’s Lenderwww.americaslenderonline.com

Arrowhead Mallwww.arrowheadmallmuskogee.com

Bacone Collegewww.bacone.edu

Bethany D. Bowline

Cherokee Nation Entertainment LLCwww.cherokeestarrewards.com

City of Muskogeewww.cityofmuskogee.com

Connors State Collegewww.connorsstate.edu

Creek Nation Casino Muskogeewww.creeknationcasino.net

Cross Telephone Companywww.crosstel.net

Dal-Tilewww.daltilecareers.com

Downtown Muskogee Inc.www.downtownmuskogee.org

Eastern Workforce Investment Boardwww.easternwib.com

Economy Pharmacywww.economypharmacy.com

Georgia-Pacificwww.georgiapacific.com

Grace Episcopal Churchwww.gracemuskogee.org

Greater Muskogee Chamber of Commercewww.muskogeechamber.org

Hampton Innwww.muskogee.hamptoninn.com

Herringshawwww.herringshaw.com

Indian Capital Technology Centerwww.ictctech.com

Muskogee Parks & Recreationwww.muskogeeparks.com

Muskogee Regional Medical Centerwww.muskogeehealth.com

Muskogee Youth Serviceswww.mccys.org

Port of Muskogeewww.muskogeeport.com

Quality Inn & Suites

Reach Higher Program – Northeastern State Universitywww.finishatnsu.com

Servicemaster Elite Cleaning & Restorationwww.smeliteclean.com

Sooner Realty Propertieswww.soonerrealtyproperties.com

Sprocket Wirelesswww.sprocketwireless.com

Saint Francis Hospicewww.saintfrancis.com

Suddenlinkwww.suddenlink.com

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muskogee receives a clean bill of health when

it comes to medical care options available

to residents. here are some examples:

hospitalsunite

muskogee Regional medical center (mRmc) and

muskogee community hospital (mch) joined to

become a unified health system in July, 2012. they

are part of the capella healthcare family of hospitals.

mRmc is a 275-bed full-service hospital serving a

multi-county region. as one of the first hospitals

established in oklahoma, muskogee Regional has

grown to become one of the state’s largest and most

comprehensive facilities. mRmc houses a nationally

accredited cancer program which features the

novalis tx, a revolutionary radiation therapy that

reduces treatment times and spares healthy tissue.

mRmc is the only facility in eastern oklahoma to

have the novalis tx. additionally, the health system’s

emergency service’s department is certified as a

level iii trauma center and Primary stroke center.

mch, licensed for 45 beds, opened in 2009 as the

first hospital in the nation to earn leed-gold for

energy efficiency and design. the health system is

proud of its focus on patient safety and satisfaction

by creating conveniences such as mammography

hours until 7:00 pm monday thru friday and free

shuttle on the mRmc campus that takes patients

to and from their cars. the health system will be

announcing a new name in early november, 2012.

Jackc.montgomeryVamedicalcenter

this hospital serves the more than 44,000 armed

services veterans in the area. it offers a variety

of services along with surgery and psychiatric care.

specialty services at Jack c. montgomery va medical

center include behavioral health, cardiology, dental,

hospice, oncology, optometry, orthopedics,

pulmonary, prosthetics and urology.

threeriVershealthcenterthree Rivers operates under the seal of

the cherokee nation and is the largest medical

clinic in the cherokee nation system. the facility

averages 70,000 outpatient visits annually.

the scope of services include pediatrics, dental,

optometry, mammography and more, and there are

translators on staff for the cherokee language. three

Rivers also has clinics for diabetic and dermatology

care, and plans to add genetics services.

healthandWellnessconsortiummuskogee has a city of muskogee foundation

in place to provide grants for community projects

including improved health and wellness. as a result,

a health and Wellness consortium oversees funds

that go to programs that advocate efforts such as

eliminating generational poverty along with teen

pregnancy prevention.

– Kevin Litwin

healthyoutlookresidents hAve Access to AdvAnced MedicAL FAciLities

health & Wellness

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ileft: Muskogee community hospital right: three rivers health center covers more than 100,000 square feet.

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arts & culture

muskogee’s varied and

thriving art scene includes

historic attractions, live

performances, fun festivals

and, most importantly, plenty

of support from local groups

and organizations.

historycomestoliFeone of the most visited cultural

attractions is the oklahoma music

hall of fame & museum, which has

been honoring musical innovators

and icons from the sooner state

since 1997. entertainers who have

already secured spots in the hall

include carrie underwood, toby

Keith and Ronnie dunn.

another popular historic

site is five civilized tribes

museum, which focuses on

preserving the art, history

and culture of the cherokee,

chickasaw, choctaw, muscogee

(creek) and seminole tribes.

one of the museum’s highlights

is the world’s largest collection

of original works by Jerome tiger,

a creek-seminole painter.

meanwhile, other museums and

historic sites in muskogee include

ataloa lodge, three Rivers

museum, and the uss batfish

War memorial Park and museum.

pleasingtotheeyefor art fans, the muskogee art

guild has been around since 1936

and sponsors workshops, art

shows, art camps and events

throughout the year. membership

is open to anyone over age 16,

with annual dues costing $25.

another interesting site is the

Roxy theater, established in 1946

creativecommunityMuskogee residents, visitors enJoy cuLturAL AttrActions

Azaleas at honor heights park, where the Azalea Festival occurs

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“Changing lives … creating opportunities

for a world-class workforce”

and host to films and concerts in

the downtown district. the Roxy

was renovated in recent years

but still manages to maintain its

old-hollywood feel.

offering live entertainment,

the muskogee little theatre

began in 1972 as a nonprofit

community theater. today, the

establishment produces three

to seven plays annually, and

provides weekend workshops,

summer camps and more.

inFullbloomas for cultural events, an

azalea festival takes place in

april each year to celebrate the

spring flowers that grow

abundantly in muskogee. the

festival includes driving and

walking tours through honor

heights Park, where more than

30,000 of the plants bloom.

the azalea festival is

promoted through the azalea

festival banner Project, during

which local artists paint banners

that are displayed during the

festival and are auctioned off

once it ends. the project has been

in place in muskogee for more

than 20 years.

artsyorganizations,establishments

the local art scene is also

promoted through the muskogee

area arts council, which works

to preserve and develop arts

programs, activities and

education. the council has been

supporting local artists and art-

related efforts since 1998.

and for an ideal spot to host

a variety of cultural events, the

8,500-square-foot muskogee

civic center hosts trade shows,

concerts, sporting events,

circuses and other traveling acts.

What’sonlineRead more about Muskogee’s arts and culture scene at livability.com/muskogee. Click “Things To Do,” then Attractions.”

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local flavor

hungry diners can always find

delicious meals and sweet

treats in muskogee. a wide variety

of food choices are available that

can please everyone’s tastes.

internationalFood,steakandFinedining

the bite market and cafe offers

breakfast and lunch in the heart

of downtown muskogee. the menu

choices include flat bread plates

with hummus, roasted artichoke

dip and Kalamata olive tapenade.

the bite also offers soups, quiche

and gourmet sandwiches - cherry

pecan chicken salad, ham and swiss

with apricot mustard, chicken with

roasted red pepper and pesto.

a muskogee institution since

1958, hamlin’s el toro serves up

many mexican favorites like

enchiladas, tostadas, burritos,

fajitas and flautas. but the most

requested item at hamlin’s is the

“world famous white sauce” dip.

not in the mood for mexican

food? hamlin’s also offers

burgers, chicken-fried steak,

shrimp dinners and more. be sure

to save room for fried ice cream

or homemade hot fried pie.

for decades okie’s steakhouse

has been the place for great

steaks, seafood and chicken. all

of okie’s steaks are hand-cut daily

from usda prime angus beef,

and soups, sauces, salad dressings

and bread are all homemade.

located in an early 19th-century

drug store and soda fountain,

miss addie’s opened in 1992 as

an elegant tea room serving

homemade lunch specialties.

now miss addie’s also includes

a pub and serves an upscale

dinner menu.

Fresh-madesWeetssweet-n-sassy cafe & bakery

is the place to go for freshly

mouthwateringmeals,tastytreatsMuskogee restAurAnts FeAture A Wide rAnge oF FLAvorFuL Foods

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from left to right: Janet brown, owner and baker at sweet-n-sassy cafe & bakery, brings out a plate of desserts to customers; cupcakes at sweet-n-sassy cafe & bakery

baked specialty cakes, like the

chocolate bourbon praline or

sensational strawberry, and other

delicious baked treats. stop by

the café and enjoy one of their

daily lunch specials.

Known for some of the tastiest

donuts in muskogee, chandler

Road donuts offers a wide

selection of donuts made fresh

every day. be sure to take home

a dozen or more of your favorites.

home-stylecookingcharlie’s chicken has long been

a popular place to enjoy great

fried chicken. order one of their

famous chicken chunk meals

with freshly made sides and rolls.

charlie’s also features homemade

carrot cake and home-style fruit

cobblers for dessert.

Paul’s diner specializes in

comfort food; just like grandma

used to make. stop by for breakfast

for one of their famous “trashcan

scramblers,” order the “5-way

spaghetti” for lunch, or have the

chicken-fried steak for dinner.

Paul’s also serves a different daily

special monday through saturday.

barbecue fans will definitely

want to stop by my Place bar-b-q.

it’s one of the oldest family-owned

restaurants in the state, and since

1927 has been a staple of the fast

casual dinning scene. my Place

offers sliced and chopped beef,

pork loin, chicken fried steak, hot

links customers can order

sandwiches or dinner plates with

sides like fried okra, mac & cheese,

beans and coleslaw.

– Barbara Biehler

What’sonlineRead more about Muskogee’s food scene at livability.com/muskogee. Click “Things To Do,” then “Food.”

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44 Muskogee LivAbiLit y.coM/Muskogee 45

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it’s easy to find recreation

opportunities in muskogee,

with activities ranging from

backpacking to baseball to

boating. here are some examples:

loVe-hatboxsportscomplex&riVercountryFamilyWaterparzk

the 60-acre love-hatbox

sports complex contains 10

baseball fields, eight softball

fields, three indoor batting cages,

two full-size football fields, 13

soccer fields, a skate park, and

paved walking and biking trails.

between memorial day and

labor day, River country family

Water Park opens its pools, slides,

playgrounds, volleyball court and

inner tube river to the public.

muskogeesWim&Fitnesscenter

With its competition-size pool

and gym facilities, the muskogee

swim & fitness center offers

classes such as high-intensity

body sculpting, yoga, aerobics

and aquatic resistance training.

membership options range

from an $8 day pass to special

corporate deals for businesses.

threeForksharbora new river center with a multi-

purpose events center and plaza

is the crowning glory of three

forks harbor. full-service river

businesses like arrowhead boat

sales and marina make three forks

a boating haven, while pier events

like the Kids fishing Rodeo and

cardboard boat Regatta teach a

new generation to love the water.

stateparksvisitors to greenleaf state Park

have the options of tent and Rv

camping, or staying in one of

greenleaf’s tranquil cabins. in the

WelcomedistractionsMuskogee oFFers MAny recreAtion options

sports & Recreation

michael conti

the muskogee golf & country club

winter, the heated fishing docks and

prospects of seeing a bald eagle

are the park’s chief attractions.

meanwhile, lake eufaula state

Park offers Rv and tent camping,

swimming, nature trails and an

18-hole golf course, complete

with putting green and pro shop.

Fishingmuskogee is surrounded by five

lakes that offer activities including

boating, swimming, hiking,

camping and fishing. anglers can

enjoy destinations such as lake

eufaula, tenkiller lake and fort

gibson lake, where sportsmen

will find black bass, white bass,

crappie, catfish and panfish.

golFandtennistry to hit ‘em long and straight

at the three golf courses in

muskogee – cobblestone creek,

eagle crest and muskogee golf

& country club. if tennis is your

racket, check out the courts at

honor heights Park, Rotary Park

and spaulding Park.

casinosfeeling lucky? head to one

of two area casinos. the cherokee

casino fort gibson, which is

located just three miles from

muskogee has expanded and

upgraded, making it a

27,500-square-foot facility

featuring 500 electronic games.

creek nation casino, in muskogee,

has more than 400 electronic

games blackjack, poker tables

and a bingo area.

– Kevin Litwin

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46 Muskogee

education is a top priority in

muskogee. the city offers

students a wide variety of

educational options to prepare

them to be productive citizens

with great career prospects.

collegesconnors state college is one

of the fastest growing two-year

public colleges in the country,

offering several academic

programs of study including

agriculture, business and

computer information systems.

Poised to fill the growing need for

health-care workers in the region,

connors state’s nursing program

features the third-largest nursing

program in oklahoma.

“muskogee is unique in that

there are a lot of opportunities for

health-care education with plenty

of clinical spots between the

various health-care providers,”

says connors state President tim

faltyn. “We have a 100 percent

pass rate on our accreditation

exams and placement of our

students in the workforce for six

years running.”

once students have acquired

their two-year nursing degree

from connors, they can obtain

their four-year degree from

northeastern state university.

nsu, the fourth-largest public

university in oklahoma, shares

nursing facilities with connors’

West campus in muskogee. the

university also offers undergraduate

and graduate degrees in many

other academic disciplines.

bacone college is one of

oklahoma’s oldest institutions of

higher learning. it is a four-year

liberal arts college affiliated with

the american baptist church.

bacone offers 29 associate

and bachelor degrees.

indian capital technology

center is a technical school

seeking to help students and

adults transition into the workforce.

ictc provides a large selection

of weekend, evening and online

courses including several nursing

assistant and nursing transition

programs that may be eligible

to transfer to connors state’s

two-year nursing program.

publicandspecializedschools

touting “one team, one

vision, one community” as its

motto, muskogee Public school

system seeks to educate students

to become successful members

of their communities. for over 100

years, muskogee Public schools

has offered students a tradition

solidFoundationsMuskogee schooLs heLp prepAre students For the Future

education

Ph

ot

os

by

mic

ha

el

co

nt

i

Page 51: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

46 Muskogee

of scholastic excellence from

early childhood all the way

through high school.

two of muskogee’s Public

schools, benjamin franklin

science academy and sadler arts

academy, offer target students

a specialized curricula in specific

academic disciplines. benjamin

franklin science academy works

to empower the next generation

of leaders through science and

the scientific process. students

there can take part in garden and

greenhouse activities, recycling

programs, science labs and

camps, and much more.

sadler arts academy, a magnet

school for kindergarten through

eighth grade, allows students to

learn through creative instruction.

While the academy is responsible

for teaching the same curriculum

required by oklahoma public

schools, sadler arts learning

content areas, such as math,

language and science, are taught

uniquely through the arts.

muskogee’s other public school

system, hilldale Public schools,

also features elementary, middle

and high schools established to

meet the educational and personal

enrichment needs of local students.

oklahoma school for the blind

seeks to provide appropriate

individualized education and

vocational services to the state’s

blind and visually impaired

students. Parents, professional

educators and their communities

work as a team to optimize a

student’s potential, allowing them

to become active, productive

members of society.

– Barbara Biehler

left: connors state college nursing students practice their skills using training dummies at the campus the college shares with northeasern state university. right: dr. tim Faltyn, president of connors state college

Page 52: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

Ad Index 48 A-AvAntiSelfStorAge

44 AmericA’Slender

16 ArrowheAdmAll

28 BAconecollege

44 BethAnyd.Bowline

c4 cherokeenAtion entertAinmentllc

4 cityofmuSkogee

4 connorSStAtecollege

2 creeknAtion cASinomuSkogee

10 croSStelephonecompAny

16 dAl-tile

2 downtownmuSkogeeinc.

41 eASternworkforce inveStmentBoArd

c3 economyphArmAcy

31 georgiA-pAcific

44 grAceepiScopAlchurch

c2 greAtermuSkogee chAmBerofcommerce

6 hAmptoninn

44 herringShAw

33 indiAncApitAl technologycenter

32 muSkogeepArkS &recreAtion

38 muSkogeeregionAl medicAlcenter

Page 53: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

Ad Index (cont.) 22 muSkogeeyouthServiceS

1 portofmuSkogee

6 QuAlityinn&SuiteS

47 reAchhigherprogrAm c/onortheAStern StAteuniverSity

44 ServicemASterelite cleAningAndreStorAtion

44 SoonerreAltypropertieS

10 SprocketwireleSS

38 SAintfrAnciShoSpice

22 Suddenlink

Page 54: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

EAST

121 N. Country Club Rd. Muskogee, OK 74403

(918) 686-8839

WEST

4421 W. Okmulgee Muskogee, OK 74401

(918) 683-2391

WAGONER

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51%

Married

49%

single

eThNICITY

54%

White

21%

black

5%

hispanic

20%

other

trAnSportAtion

14minutes

Median travel time to Work

coSt of living

$34,732Median household income

$79,000Median home price

$629Median rent for a two-bedroom Apartment

houSehold informAtion

age

36Median resident Age

29%

19 and under

44%

20-54

27%

55 and over

SnApShotsurrounded by rivers, lakes, gardens and woodlands, muskogee

offers residents and visitors a host of reasons to get outside and

play. indoor attractions in the area include arts centers, museums,

historical sites and more.

community profile

climAte

oklahoma has a continental

climate with cold winters and

hot summers. dry, sunny

weather generally prevails

throughout the state.

93°

July high temperature

25°

January Low temperature

44”

Annual rain Fall (vs. national Average Annual rain Fall of 37”)

time zone

central

48 Muskogee

Page 55: Images Muskogee, OK: 2013

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