2011 | imagesmuskogee.com ®
What’s Online Enjoy an acoustic jam session at the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.
muskogee, oklahoma
NOTEWORTHY Music hall of fame hails Oklahoma talent
GARNISH AND SERVE Restaurants serve interesting menu items
Let the Fin Begin Waterways host top fishing events
sponsored by the Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism
2011 edition | volume 6 速
Muskogee, Oklahoma co nte nt s F e atu r e s 12 let the fin begin
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Landing a pro angling tournament is a big catch for the community.
16 noteworthy Music reaches out at the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.
20 made here Muskogee is a regional hub for manufacturing.
d e pa r tm e nt s 8 Almanac 22 Biz Briefs 24 Chamber Report 25 Economic Profile 26 Image Gallery 28 Health & Wellness 30 Arts & Culture 32 Education 34 Local Flavor: Garnish and Serve 36 Sports & Recreation 38 Community Profile 40 Through the Lens: A JCI Photo Blog on the cover Muskogee resident Pete Jones fishes for bass in an off-shoot of the Arkansas River. Photo by Jeff Adkins
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What’s Online imagesmuskogee.com Photos
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2011 | IMAGESMuSkOGEE.COM ®
What’s Online Enjoy an acoustic jam session at the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.
MuSkOGEE, OkLAHOMA
NOTEWORTHY Music hall of fame hails Oklahoma talent
GARNISH AND SERVE Restaurants serve interesting menu items
Let the Fin Begin Waterways host top fishing events
SpONSORED BY THE GREATER MuSkOGEE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND TOuRISM
Digital edition Easily share articles and photos on Facebook, Twitter or via e-mail
Facts & Stats
Video
Real estate
Dig deeper with in-depth data on industries, schools and more
Get a moving glimpse at favorite local places and attractions
Learn about the local housing market and get started finding your place
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Muskogee , Oklahoma Project Manager mitch kline Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Jennifer Graves, jessica walker Staff Writer Kevin Litwin Copy Editors Lisa Battles, Joyce Caruthers, Jill Wyatt Contributing writers Liz Jungers, spencer mohead, betsy williams, tiffani williams, larry woody Media Technology Director Christina Carden Senior Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Jessica Manner, Janine Maryland, Kris Sexton, Candice Sweet, Vikki Williams
Muskogee in action
Media Technology Analysts Chandra Bradshaw, lance Conzett, Marcus Snyder Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier Web Content Managers John Hood, Kim Madlom Web Design Director Franco Scaramuzza Web Designer Leigh Guarin Web developer i Yamel Hall Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Marcia Millar, Patricia Moisan I.T. Director Yancey Bond I.T. Service Technician Ryan Sweeney Regional Sales Manager Charles Sweeney Sales Support/Community, Business, Custom Rachael Goldsberry Senior Accountant Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator Diana Guzman Office Manager/Accounts Receivable Coordinator Shelly Miller Sales Support Manager Cindy Hall color imaging technician Alison Hunter Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales Todd Potter, Carla Thurman Senior V.P./Operations Casey Hester Senior V.P./Client Development Jeff Heefner V.P./Content Development Teree Caruthers V.P./Custom Publishing Kim Newsom V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens V.P./Sales Charles Fitzgibbon, Herb Harper, Jarek Swekosky Controller Chris Dudley Content Director/Travel Publications Susan Chappell Content Director/Business Publications Bill McMeekin Marketing Creative Director Keith Harris Distribution Director Gary Smith Sales Recruiter/Trainer Colin Wright Executive Secretary Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager Peggy Blake Receptionist Linda Bishop
Images Muskogee is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism 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 e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.
Don’t just take our word for it – see for yourself how great Muskogee is in our quick videos at imagesmuskogee.com, highlighting a little bit of everything that Muskogee has to offer.
For more information, contact: Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism 310 West Broadway, Muskogee, OK 74401 Phone: (918) 682-2401 • Fax: (918) 682-2403 www.muskogeechamber.org Visit Images Muskogee online at imagesmuskogee.com ©Copyright 2010 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
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Member Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism
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Almanac
Welcome to Muskogee An introduction to the area’s people, places and events
Dine With Henry VIII Verily, the Castle of Muskogee hosts the Oklahoma Renaissance Festival weekends throughout the month of May. More than 300 costumed characters provide much of the entertainment on the spacious grounds of the castle. Other festival attractions include a Queen’s Tea, masked ball, Scottish party and a king’s feast with Henry VIII. The Castle of Muskogee is also home to Castle Fireworks (June-July), Haunted Castle (October), a Boare’s Heade Feaste (November) and Christmas Kingdom (November-December). It can also be rented as a banquet/events facility.
Mad Max's One of Muskogee's hottest dance clubs is Max's Garage Bar & Grill – home of the Saturday night Boom-Boom room. The popular live music venue features two stages as well as a large outdoor tropical patio, seven cocktail bars and a Dust Bowl Diner restaurant. Hours are 3 p.m.-2 a.m. Monday-Saturday. Max's is located near the railroad tracks downtown at the corner of Broadway and North Main Street. Bands that have appeared there include Kill the Silence, Octane Blue and Bombdiggity.
Fasten Your Seatbelts Outlaw Motor Speedway is one of the largest dirt tracks in the state, and Oklahoma’s only NASCAR facility. The 3/8-mile track is semi-banked and used solely for stock car racing. Drivers compete in categories such as pure stock, factory stock, grand national, 360 modified and enduro. The track is located on U.S. Hwy. 69, and the record lap at Outlaw Motor is 12 seconds or 160 mph. The speedway features spring and summer racing every Friday night beginning at 7:30 p.m.
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Guitar Harmony
Root Awakenings What is a Chinese radish? You can taste one at Muskogee Farmers’ Market, open Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the warm-weather months. Booth business takes place at the Muskogee Civic Center Market Square, with produce for sale such as potatoes, lettuce, spinach, green onions, collards, tomatoes, corn and Swiss chard. Also available are bedding plants and flowers, herbs and hanging plants, grass-fed Angus beef, free-range eggs, pork and lamb, soaps and lotions, and jewelry and hand-crafted items.
Is that an 8-foot guitar ... outdoors? The Muskogee Rhythms Art Guitar Project celebrates Muskogee’s rich heritage of music. The project features a number of 8-foot fiberglass guitars painted by local artists in widely varying styles that showcase the history and culture of Muskogee. Guitars are displayed around town on the front lawns of homes, at churches, businesses, schools, banks, parks and public spaces. The Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism also offers a scavenger hunt “guitar map” available at the Muskogee Tourist Information Center.
Bone Up on Films The Bare Bones International Film and Music Festival enters its 12th year in 2011, having grown so significantly that it inspired a spinoff in Tulsa. For eight days each April in Muskogee, Bare Bones honors filmmakers and showcases low-budget independent movies (less than $1 million) produced in the United States and beyond. A Bare Bones Script to Screen Film Festival, held in Tulsa each October, specifically recognizes screenwriters. The April festival takes place at several downtown venues including the historic Roxy Theatre, the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, Max’s Garage and the Muskogee Civic Center. Visit www.barebones filmfestivals.org for more info.
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Fast Facts n 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 Northeastern State University celebrated its centennial in 2009. n Muskogee is home to the Oklahoma School for the Blind. n The 101-year-old Griffin Foods, a supplier of syrups, jellies and other condiments, is based in Muskogee.
Hearth and Soul Sweet potato pie, beans and ham hocks, smoked turkey and homemade macaroni and cheese. The annual National Soul Food Cook-Off comes to the Muskogee Civic Center each January. The event, which began in 2006, is rooted in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Soul Food Cook-Off, a Muskogee mainstay. Cooks compete in the national cook-off in various categories to create the most delicious soul food dishes. People attending the event vote for their favorites, and judges award prizes ranging from $500-$1,000. Organizers hope Muskogee will someday be home to a national soul food restaurant.
n The Outlaw Motor Speedway is one of the largest dirt tracks in the state, with a three-eighth-mile track used for stock car racing. n History buffs can enjoy a day at the Fort Gibson Historical Site, which is a registered National Historic Landmark.
Muskogee At A Glance Population (2008 estimate) Muskogee: 40,099 Within a 30-minute drive: 230,000 Location Muskogee is in northeastern Oklahoma, about 50 miles southeast of Tulsa and 50 miles west of the Oklahoma-Arkansas state line. Beginnings Muskogee 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 Information Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism 310 W. Broadway P.O. Box 797 Muskogee, OK 77402 Phone: (918) 682-2401 Toll Free: (866) 381-6543 Fax: (918) 682-2403 www.muskogeechamber.org
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What’s Online Take a virtual tour of Muskogee, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imagesmuskogee.com.
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Fishing
for Com
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pliments Landing a Pro Angling Tournament is a Big Catch for a Community
Story By Larry Woody
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rofessional angler Tommy Biffle is accustomed to tournament pressure, but never was that pressure greater than in the June 2010 ESPN Bassmaster Elite Series event held on Fort Gibson Lake near Biffle’s hometown of Muskogee. “I had to win that tournament,” Biffle joked, “because all my family and friends were there – my wife, my daughter, my cousins. On the final day there were about 70 boats following me around.” Biffle’s home-lake advantage came through, and he came away with top honors in the “Sooner Run.” Biffle grew up fishing Fort Gibson and other Muskogee-area waters, and said that gave him an edge over nearly 100 other tournament competitors: “Knowing the lake is important for finding fish, but you still have to offer them the right bait at the right time.” Biffle wasn’t the tournament’s only winner; the Muskogee area netted a prize when it landed one of the nine Elite Series events held across the country. “It was a wonderful event, the tournament and related festivities,” said Sue Harris, president of the Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. “In conjunction with the final weigh-in we held a music festival that drew about 5,000 people.” Approximately 3,600 spectators attended the weigh-ins each day of the June 16-20 tournament. Many were from out of town and required lodging
Tommy Biffle of Wagoner won the Sooner Run; he caught 20 bass.
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“My favorite spot to fish is Fort Gibson Lake. I've fished there my whole life. It's the best lake in the state for bass. It's just got good quality fish and a lot of them.” Tommy Biffle, pro fisherman and winner of the 2010 Sooner Run
ESPN tournament spokesman Doug Grassian said three factors are involved in the selection process: First, the location has to have a thriving fishery – in other words, waters that produce plenty of big bass. Second, tournament officials prefer to schedule events in communities and regions that have a high concentration of fishing fans and BASS members. Third, the site must have the infrastructure in place to host an event of that magnitude (a weigh-in area that can accommodate fans and media, room for an outdoor expo and other festivities, plus lodging for anglers, spectators and staff.)
“Oklahoma is absolutely a place that fits the bill,” Grassian said. Next year’s tournament schedule is booked and plans are being made for the 2012 circuit. Will Muskogee bid on another? “We will certainly consider it,” Harris said. “We had a wonderful, positive experience.” Tommy Biffle is rooting for his hometown. “It’s a great all-around great event,” he said. “It’s good for the economy and brings a lot of positive exposure to the area. Plus, I’ll take that home-lake advantage anytime I can get it.”
Clockwise from top left: Tommy Biffle won with a four-day total of 73 pounds, 11 ounces of bass; day two of the fishing tournament begins; Muskogee resident Pete Jones searches for a good fishing spot along the Arkansas River.
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Jeff Adkins
in addition to patronizing restaurants and other businesses. “We saw license plates from four different states, as well as from counties all across Oklahoma,” Harris said. “Most of our area hotel rooms were filled.” In addition to the economic impact, ESPN’s tournament coverage attracted a quarter-million viewers nationwide – positive exposure for the area and its outdoor opportunities. Fishing tournaments have exploded in popularity since Ray Scott founded the Bass Anglers Sportsman’s Society (BASS) in 1968. Being chosen to host an event is a plum for any community, and
Jeff Adkins
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Beyond the Glass Case
Music is in the air at the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame
Story By Liz Jungers Photography By jeff adkins
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reserving Oklahoma’s rich musical heritage is no small undertaking, but Muskogee’s Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and Museum set out to do just that in 1997 with the induction of jazz great Claude “Fiddler” Williams, traditional pop artist Patti Page, folk legend Woody Guthrie and outlaw country star Merle Haggard. Though perhaps most famous for its country stars – Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Vince Gill and Carrie Underwood were all born here – “We aim to represent the whole of the Oklahoma musical tradition, from blues and jazz, to folk, red dirt and bluegrass,” says Penny Kampf, executive director of the OMHOF. There, one can find a broad variety of
Local musicians take turns leading the group playing songs during a monthly acoustic jam session.
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The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and Museum has several outreach programs that integrate music into the community at large. Left: Meaghan McCawley plays the guitar and sings.
music paraphernalia, from a dress worn by Wanda Jackson, to a guitar signed by The All-American Rejects. But at the OMHOF, music isn’t simply relegated to the glass case. Offering an array of community outreach programs, volunteers and staff work together to ensure that music lives and breathes inside the newly renovated former Frisco freight depot that houses the OMHOF. “As the regional hub for many rural communities, we especially want to reach out to our area’s youth, to offer them a creative atmosphere of music appreciation,” Kampf says. Special Programs The newest initiative in their efforts to reach eastern Oklahoma’s young people is the Music Emporium, an “outrageously fun, silly, hands-on musical adventure” led by the zany “Professor Rappe,” where kids 4-12 explore music as it relates to movement, weather, art and more in a series of six Saturday classes. The OMHOF has also recently expanded its Music Begins with a Song series, occurring every other month and featuring intimate in-the-round performances by many of the area’s notable songwriters, including Tom Skinner. Monthly bluegrass sessions in the
spring and fall and their annual induction ceremony round out the OMHOF’s robust live entertainment schedule. The Muskogee area boasts so many talented musicians that the OMHOF has also instituted an acoustic jam session every third Monday, providing musicians of all ages and abilities a place to play together, share music and swap instruction. “We had 18 players last time,” Kampf says, “and it’s wonderful to see some of the more experienced folks helping the younger ones, and to see them teaching each other different styles and types of music.” In this way, the OMHOF does its part not only to preserve and promote Oklahoma’s rich musical history, but to shape its future as well. Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame Songwriting Contest and Songfest This contest offers cash prizes of $500 to winners in youth and adult categories of the open division. A new category, the theme contest, was added for 2010. This contest challenges entrants of all ages to write a song about Oklahoma music and its impact on the world. The prize for this contest includes $500, filming of a music video and chance to have that video shown at the OMHOF induction ceremony.
What’s Online
Enjoy a video of an acoustic jam session at the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and Museum at imagesmuskogee.com. The sessions are held the third Monday of every month during the summer.
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Made Here Muskogee is A Regional Hub for Manufacturing
Story By Tiffany Williams | Photography By jeff adkins
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hen manufacturing comes to mind, so should Muskogee. This small port town is known for its many manufacturing companies, ranging everywhere from tiles, to toilet paper to tasty treats. The Port of Muskogee, a full-service facility that offers easy access to rail, truck and barge transportation, is an inland location along the McClellanKerr Arkansas River Navigation System, allowing freight to be transported to the Gulf Coast and around the world via the Arkansas and Mississippi rivers. This access to land, rail and water transportation is what makes Muskogee a top choice for manufacturers.
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Just ask Dal-Tile officials. The company, which serves as America’s leader in ceramic tile manufacturing and distribution, chose Muskogee for this very reason in 2003. After the company received 171 acres of land, tiles from all over the world were slated for decorative production. Porcelain, ceramic and natural stone tiles and slabs, including medallions glass and metal tiles, are just a few of the products offered. Acme Engineering and Manufacturing Corporation houses its headquarters in Muskogee. Founded in 1938, the company manufactures fans, blowers and ventilation equipment. Their 350,000 square feet of
manufacturing space gives Acme the opportunity to produce one of the broadest lines of air moving equipment in the industry. Founded in 1908 by John T. Griffin, Griffin Food Company is best known in Muskogee for its signature breakfast products, Griffin Waffle Syrup and Griffin Strawberry Preserves. The company ships many products to its customers, including several syrups, jellies and preserves, mustards, salad dressings, coconut, barbecue sauces, vanilla and peanut butter. Love Bottling Company is a 135,000-square-foot bottling facility that produces Coca-Cola, Dr Pepper and Love Beverages. Since opening in 1979, Love’s products and services have expanded. Now, the company offers home and office water delivery, cooler rentals, coffee and coffee essentials, cups, teas and more. Georgia-Pacific also has a facility in Muskogee, which produces familiar consumer paper products including Brawny, Mardi Gras, Quilted Northern, Sparkle, Vanity Fair and Angel Soft. In addition to a variety of products, Muskogee also offers a variety of benefits. With a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office, veterans, their dependents and their surviving spouses and children have an opportunity to receive disability, education and training, vocational rehabilitation and employment, and life insurance and burial benefits.
Port employees hoist a large tugboat out of the water with a crane. Left: The Port of Muskogee also offers convenient access to railways.
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Biz Briefs The Arrowhead Mall gives consumers good variety in these quality stores
Scorecard Business At A Glance
$557,323 Retail sales ($1,000)
$14,135 Retail sales per capita
$58,968 Accommodations and food service sales ($1,000)
2,993 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census Quickfacts
DILLARD’S Biz: Clothing and Accessories Buzz: As part of the Dillard’s chain, Dillard’s at Arrowhead Mall in Muskogee provides the same quality clothes and accessories that have made Dillard’s a household name. Dillard’s carries clothing lines from such well-known designers as Kenneth Cole, Ralph Lauren and Alex Marie. It also features one of the most complete gift registries in town. www.dillards.com 22
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the DAILY GRIND Biz: Coffee Shop Buzz: The Daily Grind provides shoppers with several options of gourmet coffees and specialty teas. Coffees include dark roasts, flavors, organic and fair trades, and single origins and blends. The Daily Grind also offers numerous light breakfast and lunch foods, including croissants, danish, muffins and scones. In addition, The Daily Grind has several lattes and sandwiches, including a children’s menu. (918) 687-1165 BANCFIRST Biz: Bank Buzz: With a network of banks throughout Oklahoma, BancFirst has been serving Oklahoma since its founding in 1966. BancFirst’s Muskogee branch at the Arrowhead Mall adds greater customer convenience to the list of services that has made BancFirst a success. Although the BancFirst Arrowhead Mall location does not offer drive-through services, it, nevertheless, offers customers convenient lobby hours Monday through Saturday. www.bancfirst.com TWISTED JOE’S INC. Biz: Pretzel Manufacturer Buzz: For more than a decade, Twisted Joe’s spectacular hand-rolled soft pretzels have made it a Muskogee staple. Twisted Joe’s pretzels are made from scratch in nine distinct varieties, from plain pretzels – with just butter and salt – to garlic pretzels, Parmesan pretzels and little pretzel pizzas. (918) 687-5755
• Smoke-free environment • Indoor pool and whirlpool • Exercise room • Wireless Internet • Microwave and refrigerator in all rooms • Group and corporate rates available
staying is believing FairField inn & SuiteS
1650 n. 32nd St. • Muskogee • (918) 683-6700 Marriott.com/tulMK
RIDDLE’S JEWELRY Biz: Jewelry Buzz: The Riddle’s Jewelry network contains 46 stores in 11 states, including its Muskogee location at Arrowhead Mall. Riddle’s Jewelry is able to offer customers beautiful Belgian diamonds through its partnership with a leading Belgian diamond dealer. With experience in the diamond industry since 1959, Riddle’s Jewelry provides some of the most unique settings and designs available. www.riddlesjewelry.com
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Chamber Report Muskogee Chamber’s leadership fosters national exposure he Greater Muskogee Area Chamber T of Commerce is a key partner in the community’s quest for excellence,
thanks to an aggressive business plan, strong leadership and teamwork. After two years of planning by the chamber, its tourism division and the community, Muskogee’s June hosting of the coveted Bassmaster Elite Series Championship was a rousing success, generating national exposure and
attracting more than 20,000 visitors to its Three Forks Harbor over the fourday event. “We were ready to premier our new harbor development, and we were looking for a way to do that,” says chamber president and CEO Sue Harris of the effort to lure the national tournament to Muskogee. “After we were selected, our BASS committee was formed of chamber members who were
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willing to come to the table and go to work. We had a group of passionate people who wanted this to be the best event we’ve ever had.” It is that type of enthusiasm that has generated statewide awards for this “Okie from Muskogee.” The Oklahoma Department of Tourism last year gave the chamber its top award for best brochure (the Motorcycle Ride Guide), best website and recognition as one of the leading tourism organizations in the state. Creating and implementing successful tourism events and programs is just one aspect of this energetic chamber’s ambitious agenda. Sometimes those programs begin with dreaming, Harris says. “One of the most exciting committees making a difference is the Vision Committee,” she says of this new thinktank effort. “Our mission is to dream, visualize and discuss what we want Muskogee to be. It’s been filled with high energy and packed houses, as we work to foster a positive image of Muskogee with residents, visitors and our business investors. It’s a win-win committee that will make great things happen.” It’s because of volunteers and leadership that the chamber is making such positive strides, Harris maintains. “Our volunteers are the best, and we have a very active volunteer program.” Leadership Muskogee continues to generate enthusiastic new leaders within the community; the chamber’s Leadership program supplies the network of keeping graduates involved, while the annual Women’s Leadership Conference helps create a better business and leadership environment for women. The Legislative Affairs Committee tracks local, state and federal legislation, holds public forums and town hall meetings, and serves as a catalyst for proactive partnerships that affect business policies, Harris says. The Success Expo, in its 10th year, is a business-to-business marketing event, drawing upward of 150 chamber member vendors and thousands of attendees who enjoy the speakers and giveaways. – Betsy Williams
economic profile Business climate Muskogee is the third-largest manufacturing community in Oklahoma. Items produced here include machinery, rubber items, food products and consumer goods. The city also is an important transportation, trade and industrial center in the Arkansas River Valley.
Transportation
Real Estate
Airports
$75,750
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
Tax Structure
0.65% County Sales and Use Tax
4.0% City Sales Tax
4.5% State Sales Tax
9.15% Total Sales Tax
Economic Resources Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism 310 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401 (918) 682-2401 www.muskogeechamber.org Muskogee Development 216 W. Okmulgee St. Muskogee, OK 74401 (918) 683-2816 www.muskogee development.org
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
Average Home Price
16.09% Home Turnover Percentage
Industrial Sites Davis Field 550 acres available EastPointe Business Park 56 acres available John T. Griffin 117 acres available Muskogee Industrial Complex 16 acres available Port of Muskogee 180 acres available Southside, 248 acres available
Government Offices City of Muskogee 227 W. Okmulgee St. Muskogee, OK 74401 (918) 682-6602 www.cityofmuskogee.com
Average Hourly Wages Computer Operator, $9.42 Customer Service II, $9.54
Rail Service
Electrician, $11.61
BNSF Railway Co. www.bnsf.com
Inspector, $9.91
Union Pacific Railroad www.up.com
Secretary, $10.22
Machine Operator, $10.47 Warehouse/Shipping, $8.04
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Image Gallery
Historic Fort Gibson Photo by Jeff Adkins
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Greenleaf State Park Photo by Jeff Adkins
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Health & Wellness
Here’s to Your Health Top-notch hospitals serve muskogee residents
Staff Photo
Antony Boshier
Muskogee Regional Medical Center and Muskogee Community Hospital give local residents two fine choices for receiving quality health care. MRMC has been a part of this community since 1959, while MCH recently opened in 2009. And the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center has been providing care for decades.
Muskogee Regional Medical Center
Muskogee Community Hospital
The Joint Commission-accredited hospital has 329 beds, a trauma center and a staff that can treat almost any medical condition. And the hospital’s services are expanding and improving. It’s planning a $1 million renovation of its medical floor and has acquired advanced radiotheraphy technology for its cancer center. The medical center trumpets the fact that patients can be treated for almost any ailment in Muskogee. One example is MRMC’s introduction of an interventional cardiology program, which allows angioplasty patients to have a wire mesh stent inserted to relieve a blocked vessel.
Although still relatively new, MCH already plays a big role in the overall economy of Muskogee. A total of 20 doctors, 60 nurses and a staff of 150 equates to an annual payroll of approximately $5 million as well as $500,000 in taxes for the community. MCH, with 45 beds, is owned by local physicians and a small group of business individuals. Physicians were involved from the very beginning in the design of the facility, and actively help to manage the hospital on an ongoing basis.
Don’t Have to Travel to Tulsa With the cardiology program, MRMC is now equipped to handle cases that used to require a trip to Tulsa. One of the hospital’s goals is helping customers “understand all the services that Muskogee Regional Medical Center can provide to [them] right here,” Kevin Fowler, CEO of MRMC, wrote in a letter to residents. “We believe that you should have health-care services that meet and exceed your expectations and place our hospital shoulder to shoulder with all other institutions in the region,” Fowler wrote.
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MCH Services Even though it is a young hospital, it already provides a large variety of medical and surgical services for patients requiring overnight stays and for outpatients. Its diagnostic services include laboratory tests, endoscopy, MRI, CT, ultrasound, mammography and radiology; surgical services include general, orthopedic, urology, neurosurgery, gynecology, ophthalmology, and ear, nose and throat. There is also an emergency department. MCH not only cares for the residents of Muskogee, it cares for the environment, too. The hospital was constructed using the principles of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program.
Staff Photo
VA Medical Center “Excellence Starts Here” is more than just the motto of the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center. The 110-bed medical and surgical hospital serves approximately 45,000 veterans from a 25-county area in eastern Oklahoma. The medical center also operates an outpatient clinic at the Muskogee facility and community-based outpatient clinics in Tulsa, Hartshorne and Vinita. The VA facility offers a range of specialty care services, including audiology, cardiology, oncology and orthopedics. – Kevin Litwin
Taking Care of You Muskogee Regional Medical Center 300 Rockefeller Dr., Muskogee, OK 74401 (918) 682-5501, www.muskogeehealth.com Muskogee Community Hospital 2900 North Main St., Muskogee, OK 74401-4078 (918) 687-7777, www.mch-ok.com Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center 1011 Honor Heights Dr., Muskogee, OK 74401 (918) 683-3261, www.muskogee.va.gov
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Arts & Culture
Current Attractions Enjoy Muskogee’s Music & Art scene and learn a bit of history Home to a wide variety of interesting cultural opportunities, Muskogee offers a little bit of everything – music, visual art, history and nature. From the Azalea Festival to the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, residents and visitors alike are entertained. 1. Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame Since 1997, the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame has been honoring musical innovators and icons from the Sooner State. The organization inducts a variety of talented artists each year, with Oklahoma natives Carrie Underwood, Toby Keith and Ronnie Dunn already securing spots in the hall of fame. Striving to educate the public while offering entertainment in the form of concerts, the hall of fame is located in the historic Frisco Depot building.
2. Azalea Festival Drawing visitors from all over the world, the Azalea Festival in Muskogee takes place in April each year. The festival includes a variety of events, as well as driving and walking tours through Honor Heights Park, where the azaleas are located. The park offers 625 varieties of azaleas, with more than 30,000 of the plants blooming annually. Park visitors can also enjoy dogwoods, redbuds and other plants. A butterfly sanctuary is under construction.
3. Five Civilized Tribes Museum Focused on preserving the art, history and culture of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole
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tribes, Five Civilized Tribes Museum is located in the historic Union Indian Agency building. The museum, which first opened its doors in 1966, is home to a variety of exhibits, artifacts and traditional art. While some exhibits change frequently, others are permanent fixtures. In addition, the museum also offers the world’s largest collection of original works by Jerome Tiger, a Creek-Seminole painter.
4. Roxy Theatre This multipurpose venue was established in 1946 and is located in downtown Muskogee. Hosting a variety of events, including film and music festivals, the Roxy Theatre was recently renovated but still manages to maintain its old-Hollywood feel with its genuine 1940s neon sign and fully preserved marquee. In addition to musical guests, the venue hosts American Indian performances and showcases local and statewide talent.
5. Muskogee Art Guild A nonprofit organization founded in 1936, the Muskogee Art Guild works to cultivate an appreciation for art in the community while sponsoring exhibits and other forms of art. Members of the organization can attend workshops, meetings, art shows and events throughout the year, as well as summer art
camps. The Muskogee Art Guild offers memberships to all individuals over the age of 16, with annual dues costing $25.
6. Muskogee Civic Center The civic center offers six meeting rooms of various sizes, as well as an arena consisting of 8,568 square feet that is ideal for hosting large meetings, trade shows or banquets. An asset to the surrounding community, the Muskogee Civic Center also hosts concerts, bringing popular musicians including Miranda Lambert, Willie Nelson and Loretta Lynn to the area. In addition, the space has also showcased sporting events, circuses and other traveling acts.
7. U.S.S. Batfish Serving as the main attraction of the War Memorial Park & Museum, located in Muskogee, the U.S.S. Batfish is a submarine that first launched in 1943 and was used during World War II and part of the Korean War. Purchased by the state of Oklahoma in 1971, the U.S.S. Batfish’s record earned the submarine nine Battle Stars, one Navy Cross, four Silver Stars, 10 Bronze Stars and one Presidential Unit Citation. It can be viewed by the public year-round. – Jessica Walker
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Education
Education Abounds Muskogee Offers a Variety of Educational Options Muskogee is bustling with educational opportunities. Primary, secondary and higher education facilities give everyone from the incoming kindergartner to the working adult options to suit all their educational needs.
Muskogee High School
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photos by Jeff Adkins
Oklahoma School for the Blind
The Muskogee Area Educational Consortium, made up of education representatives from all sectors of Muskogee County, was created to provide greater benefits to students. Included in the consortium are Muskogee Public Schools, Northeastern State University, Bacone College, Connors State College and Indian Capital Technology Center. The organization also includes primary and secondary schools within the Haskell, Warner, Hilldale and Fort Gibson systems, as well as the Oklahoma School for the Blind and area private schools. Meeting regularly for more than 10 years, the consortium has made processes such as designing curriculum and transferring credits much easier. One of its members, strongly dedicated to benefiting its students, is Northeastern State University. Its Muskogee campus has been offering undergraduate and graduate courses in the areas of education, business, general studies, nursing and more since 1993. To accommodate working adults, the campus also offers convenient evening, nighttime and online classes. Another institution offering classes at non-traditional times to its students is Indian Capital Technology Center. The
school’s Muskogee campus offers programs for high school students as well as daytime programs in a wide range of industries, including hospitality and lodging management, air conditioning and culinary arts. Connors State College works closely with business partners to make sure it continues to offer classes in occupations where there is a demand for jobs. Its innovative program, Education Stimulus Program or ESP, allows qualifying residents who have lost their jobs to take up to nine hours of classes tuition-free to help them return to the workforce as soon as possible. Bacone College also has programs to meet the needs of students. The college’s affiliation with the International Learning Styles Network gives students an opportunity to better understand and capitalize on their personal styles of learning. Its Student Support Services
TRIO program provides students with extensive tutoring and academic mentoring. Muskogee Public Schools educates approximately 6,500 pre-K through 12-graders at 14 facilities. The 16-to-1 student to teacher ratio makes it easier for children to get personal attention. Around 1,800 students attend the four schools that make up the Hilldale Public Schools district. The district earned an eight out of 10 district rating from GreatSchools.org, which compiles information on school performance from its listings of 200,000 public and private schools. The Oklahoma School for the Blind, founded in 1897 for blind children of the Indian Territory, became a statesupported school in 1907. Some areas of study available are adapted physical education and independent living skills. – Tiffany Williams
School Choice Parents in Oklahoma have the option of sending their children to any school in their district or outside their district, but the new district has to approve.
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Local Flavor
Okie’s Restaurant
Amish Country Store and Fudge Factory
Eat Your Heart Out Muskogee county offers unique treats and eats Muskogee County is home to several one-of-a-kind restaurants that just can’t be found anywhere else. Offering everything from savory home cooking to sweet treats, hungry patrons can expect to find culinary satisfaction in this area.
Amish Country Store and Fudge Factory Open seven days a week, the Amish Country Store and Fudge Factory offers homemade breads, cheeses, pies, jams and jellies made by Amish artisans. In addition, customers with a sweet tooth can choose from more than 40 different kinds of fudge to satisfy their cravings. The eatery is located on U.S. Highway 69 North and also opens its doors after hours for parties.
Okie’s Restaurant Serving home-style food since 1978, Okie’s Restaurant is a popular eatery frequented by Muskogee residents and visitors alike. A new club inside Okie’s adds to the restaurant’s appeal. The Watering Hole opened in June
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2010. And it’s the perfect place to go for those who want dinner and entertainment. The club offers the same menu as Okie’s and hosts country music bands and singers on Friday and Saturday nights.
Cowboys Bar-B-Que In 1979, this barbecue restaurant began as an idea in owners David and Sue Vanderford’s imaginations. Now the establishment is a reality, serving up a full menu six days a week. Patrons can enjoy a variety of eats at Cowboys Bar-B-Que, such as sandwiches, ribs, dinner entrees and more. The restaurant also boasts celebrity patrons, including country music stars Garth Brooks, George Strait and Tim McGraw. The restaurant offers catering as well, typically serving groups of 5,000 people.
Miss Addie’s Cafe & Pub Originally a drugstore and soda fountain, Miss Addie’s has been a popular Muskogee eatery for almost 20 years. For lunch, the restaurant serves soups, salads, sandwiches, freshly baked bread and an assortment of desserts. The atmosphere changes to casual elegance for dinner, with a wine list and entrees that include seafood, chicken, steak and pasta dishes. A “Pub Grub” menu is available for the budget-conscious diner.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Soul Food Cook-Off This community event was started by Muskogee’s
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Soul Food Cook-Off
multicultural coordinator, Cassandra Gaines, and focuses on drawing attention to family values. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Soul Food Cook-Off showcases unknown talents that might otherwise receive little attention, allowing participants to set up decorated booths that display their culinary creations. The event is also open to members of the community, who are encouraged to sample the fare and enjoy a home-cooked meal. – Jessica Walker
Muskogee Farmers’ Market
Hungry for more? Sink your teeth into other stories about Muskogee’s local flavor in the food section at imagesmuskogee.com.
photos by Jeff Adkins
What’s Online
Since 1995, the Muskogee Farmers’ Market has offered 100 percent Oklahoma-grown food. Fresh produce is available, as well as Amish baked goods, grass-fed beef, cut flowers, herbal soaps and soy candles. The market also hosts special events open to the public, including Herb Fest, Grill Crazy, Harvest Festival and the Muskogee Salsa Tasting Contest. Located in downtown Muskogee, the market is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m.
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Sports & Recreation
River Country Family Water Park
The Biggest Thrill of All? Maritime and Anytime: Recreation in Muskogee All due respect to Mr. Merle Haggard, but white lightning is no longer "the biggest thrill of all." Wet or dry, indoor and out, fun abounds in Muskogee.
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Love-Hatbox Sports Complex
Muskogee Swim & Fitness Center
Perhaps best known for its water park, the Love-Hatbox Sports Complex has many other sports facilities. The 60-acre complex contains 10 baseball fields, eight softball fields, three indoor batting cages, two full-size football fields, 13 soccer fields within the Georgia-Pacific Soccer Complex, a skate park, and more than three miles of paved trails. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, River Country Family Water Park opens its pools, slides, playgrounds, volleyball court and inner tube river to anyone looking to cool off.
With its competition size pool and gym facilities, the Muskogee Swim & Fitness Center improves the health of Muskogee residents. Classes offered include high-intensity body sculpting, yoga, aerobics and even zero-impact aquatic resistance training. Membership options range from a $5 day pass to special corporate deals with businesses.
On the Water The new $12 million River Center, a multipurpose events center and plaza, is the crowning glory of Three Forks Harbor
Greenleaf State Park
– Muskogee’s port to the whitecapped waves of the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Lakes. Fullservice river businesses like Arrowhead Boat Sales and Marina make Three Forks a boating haven, while events like the Kids Fishing Rodeo and Cardboard Boat Regatta teach a new generation to love the water.
State Parks Visitors to Greenleaf State Park have the options of tent and RV
photos by Jeff Adkins
Muskogee Swim & Fitness Center
camping or staying in one of the cabins. In the winter, the heated fishing docks and prospect of seeing a bald eagle are the park’s chief attractions. Other amenities include family recreation facilities and nature hiking trails. Lake Eufala State Park offers RV and tent camping, swimming, nature trails and an 18-hole golf course, complete with putting green and pro shop. – Spencer Mohead
Get Some Exercise and Fresh Air Love-Hatbox Sports Complex 34th Street and Arline Street (918) 684-6302 RIver Center at three forks harbor 5201 Three Forks Rd. Fort Gibson, OK 74434 (918) 682-7886
Greenleaf State Park 3 miles south of Braggs on Hwy. 10 S. Braggs, OK 74423 (918) 487-5196 Muskogee Swim & Fitness Center 566 N. 6th St. (918) 681-4733
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community profile Snapshot Surrounded by rivers, lakes, gardens and woodlands, Muskogee offers residents and visitors a host of reasons to get outside and play. Or venture indoors to one of many arts centers, museums and historical sites.
Education
Climate Oklahoma has a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Dry, sunny weather generally prevails throughout the state.
27 F January Low Temperature
48 F January High Temperature
70 F July Low Temperature
95 F July High Temperature
Between them, the two city school districts – Muskogee Public Schools and Hilldale Public Schools – operate a pre-kindergarten center, nine elementary schools, two K-8 schools, two middle schools and two high schools. The city is also home to the Oklahoma School for the Blind, as well as a wealth of institutes of higher education.
Health Care The 329-bed Muskogee Regional Medical Center offers full inpatient and outpatient services. The 45-bed Muskogee Community Hospital, which opened in 2009, operates as a general acute care facility. The Veterans Affairs Medical Center offers primary care providers and outpatient services.
Arts and Culture Three Rivers Museum 220 Elgin St. Muskogee, OK 74401 (918) 686-6624 Ataloa Lodge Museum 2299 Old Bacone Rd. Muskogee, OK 74403 (918) 781-7283 The Five Civilized Tribes Museum 1101 Honor Heights Drive Muskogee, OK 74401 (918) 683-1701
Utilities Cable Suddenlink, (800) 364-7511 Electricity OG&E, (800) 522-0280 Natural Gas Oklahoma Natural Gas, (800) 482-4513 Telephone AT&T, (877) 722-5516 Water Dept. (918) 682-6602
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Through the Lens: A JCI Photo Blog
Beating the Heat in Muskogee, Oklahoma Residents of Muskogee, Oklahoma pride themselves on knowing how to beat some of the hottest summer days. During the past couple of days the temperature has been around 100 degrees while the heat index has been around 112 degrees. In an effort to stay cool while shooting photos for Images of Muskogee magazine, I headed over to the River Country Family Water Park and to the Muskogee Swim and Fitness Center. This didn’t solve the problem since I wasn’t actually in the water, but instead watching other people cool off as I continued to burn up.
Posted by Jeff Adkins
More Online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at www.throughthelensjci.com.
Honor Heights Park in Muskogee, OK 40
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John Michael’s Music and Sound
Now’s a great time to buy a home!
www.muskogeehomes.com Gary Dunlap, Broker/Owner Re/Max of Muskogee (918) 683-1221 E-mail: garydunlap@remax.net
The Place Where People Want to Be. Mon.-Sat. 10-9 • Sun. 12-6 501 N. Main • Muskogee, OK • 682-4106 www.arrowheadmallmuskogee.com www.facebook.com/arrowheadmall
Donna Elliott
Clinkenbeard Group 2023 N. York Muskogee, OK 74403 100 S. Lee Ft. Gibson, OK 74434 “As a lifetime Okie, I am proud to call Muskogee home ... and you will be too.”
(918) 684-8512 (800) 634-5750 donna1143@yahoo.com www.realtor.com
Kamlesh Aggarwal (918) 260-5296 E-mail: kamlesh912@gmail.com
I specialize in investment properties, office buildings, hotels/motels, land and land development. The success of my business depends on referrals. Knowing the desire of an investor and finding the right property for them makes my business grow. Helping clients with their real estate needs since 1986. I am very active in the Muskogee and Tulsa communities.
www.soonerrealtyproperties.com
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