2024 GUIDE Muskogee & Annual Progress Forecast

GUIDE 2024

& ANNUAL PROGRESS FORECAST

Main Street Muskogee, Muskogee Means More lead revitalization

Plans shape city's future through port development

Education thrives in Muskogee via facilities, innovative programs

Discover a local park to be active, have fun or enjoy a family picnic

Muskogee.It’swho we are.

Born and raised Muskogee proud.He’scared forhis neighbors for 25 years,now,Donald ismorethan just apar tofthe SaintFrancis family—he’s par to fo ur promise to imp rove th ehealtho fthe co mmunities we call home

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Muskogee

Fort Gibson Schools, responding to a growing district, converted a former church into a STEM and Robotics center.

Muskogee campus sees continued success with its nursing program, offering an associate degree pathway for aspiring registered nurses.

ICTC thrives by prioritizing employer input, adapting its curriculum, and retooling programs like the Service Careers Program to meet workforce needs and student interests.

Community initiative aims to grow

By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

Main Street Muskogee and Muskogee Means More are moving Muskogee forward in a variety of ways.

“We believe that community transformation is locally owned, and locally driven,” Main Street Muskogee Executive Director Courtney Graham said. “That is done through our citizen-based committees, building relationships with other organizations, volunteers, and partnerships to further the development of Downtown.”

Main Street Muskogee offered several design and economic incentive grants to help new businesses move in and existing businesses expand. Grants helped owners of a new restaurant, Watson’s Chophouse on Third, add new windows and repair the roof of an old building. Kids’ Space Child Advocacy Center got a new look through Main Street help.

Keeping downtown plants watered last August was part of Michelle LeNoir-Rende’s job as Muskogee Main Street’s Downtown Ambassador. (File photo)

A float carrying the State Champion Muskogee Roughers football team rounds a corner during the Muskogee Christmas Parade, a project of Main Street Muskogee. (File photo)

Brochures and bumperstickers touting Muskogee Means More were rolled out, along with a promotional video, in February. (Cathy Spaulding)

City

Graham said that, through Main Street Muskogee, Downtown Muskogee saw $738,816 in private reinvestment in 2023. This included six building rehabilitation projects and two new businesses. Volunteers put in 3,365 hours of service to the program, Graham said.

The program has several events each year to draw people Downtown. Upcoming events include Food Truck Days, where people can gather on Hunt’s Greenspace on Broadway to enjoy music and food truck fare. Main Street Muskogee funded new picnic tables for

Hunt’s. This year’s Food Truck days are May 6 and 20 and June 3 and 17.

In October, Main Street Muskogee partners with Neighbors Building Neighborhoods to host Boo-Nanza, a trick or treating event that draws thousands downtown. The 2023 Boo-Nanza moved indoors because of stormy weather, but still drew 7,000 visitors.

Main Street Muskogee made 2023 Christmas shopping brighter by adding lighting over four blocks, adding lit trees, even decorating the historic viaduct.

The 2023 Christmas parade was its biggest ever. With help from Muskogee Means More, Main Street Muskogee hired a Downtown Ambassador to help visitors with information and to keep plants watered and areas free of debris.

Muskogee Means More began in 2023 under a previous name, Muskogee Forward. The aim was to build Muskogee through five goals — collaboration, business development, talent development, quality of life, marketing. The program involves City of Musk-

Muskogee City Manager Mike Miller talks about what the Muskogee Means More campaign means for the city during the campaign’s launch in late February. (File photo)

Kids’ Space Child Advocacy Center Executive Director Laura Wickizer shows the center’s new exterior paint, signage and awnings, funded with help from Main Street Muskogee. (Cathy Spaulding)

ogee Foundation, Port Muskogee, Greater Muskogee Chamber of Commerce and City of Muskogee.

The Foundation is partnering with the City of Muskogee, Port Muskogee and Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Muskogee Means More is more than just a tagline,” said Foundation Board Chairwoman Wren Stratton. “It’s a profound statement about our vibrant community and the incredible individuals who call it home. We’re talking about fostering a deeper con-

nection to our hometown, building a stronger sense of community and paving the way to a future full of opportunity.”

Stratton said Muskogee Means More seeks to “bring out all the positive things we are and the potential we have to be so much more.”

A keystone to the initiative is a website geared to attracting visitors and businesses. The website features an interactive tool to show how Muskogee’s cost of living compares to selected communities.

The website’s Live Here segment features categories focusing on cost of living, education, public safety, wellness, history and culture. The Work Here segment focuses on entrepreneurs and businesses, industries and higher education. Move Here touts Muskogee’s affordability, noting that Business Facilities Magazine declared Muskogee as the United States’ Most Affordable City in 2023. The website also features video profiles of people who work, live or have businesses in Muskogee.

Eateries, attractions propel city

By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

It doesn’t take long to see new activities, new businesses and new looks throughout Muskogee.

People are enjoying pickleball games at Spaulding Park and picking up pizza from Lugo’s.

Such activity shows that it’s a great time to be in Muskogee.

News of coming businesses and activ-

ities are prove that Muskogee is moving forward.

Muskogee Parks and Recreation recently converted three tennis courts into six pickleball courts. But tennis players can still find love as well, several courts at Spaulding remain open for tennis. Parks Director Mark Wilkerson said the city also plans to convert some tennis courts

at Honor Heights into pickleball courts.

“It’s just kind of a rage across the country for a lot of reasons,” Wilkerson said. “It’s an easier game to play than tennis and have fun with it.”

And expect new things coming to Muskogee parks and facilities this year.

Langston Park in northwest Muskogee is to get a splash pad by mid-summer,

Wilkerson said.

Part of the former Rougher Alternative Academy is being converted into an esports facility, offering video games in an organized, competitive environment.

“We’ll bid on buying equipment here soon and will be hiring staff to run it,” Wilkerson said. “That’s going to be by the end of the school year.”

A stained stairwell hints at the elegance to be offered by Watson’s Chophouse on Third Street. An exterior wall and sign hints at the building’s historic significance.

(DAMON WATSON/Submitted)

Muskogee Teen Center is expected to move into another part of RAA later this year. Muskogee Swim and Fitness members are doing their cardio and muscle exercises at RAA while the the fitness center expands its exercise space. Wilkerson said work should Muskogee Swim and Fitness work should be finished by early summer.

The new Grandview Park is under construction south of the Hilldale Elementary campus on Peak Boulevard. Wilkerson said that when it is completed, possibly by mid-summer, the park will feature hilly and curvy bike trails, as well as ramps.

“It’s something we don’t have in our parks system, and it’s going to have a really cool playground too,” Wilkerson said.

Muskogee also has some nice new places to find food, with more coming soon.

Lugo’s New York Pizzeria, open since October, sells pizza for carry-out or delivery. Owner Jaime Novi said New York pizza is high-gluten, high temperature flour, cooked on a stone and hand-tossed crust.

Fine dining is set to return to downtown Muskogee by late summer when Watson’s Chophouse on Third opens

in the historic McKibban Building. The first floor of the restaurant is where Club Lunch served patrons for generations.

“It’s going to be an upscale nice steakhouse type setting, a good date night place,” said owner Damon Watson. “We’re going to do the downstairs first, get it open. Upstairs, we’re going to have some sitting areas and more dining, and a small rooftop patio. We want it to be a nice place where people are not rushed.”

That’s not the only business revitalizing downtown Muskogee.

Insurance agent Kim White

stripped and renovated the second floor of a building at Third Street and Okmulgee Avenue. The second floor now houses her office, the City of Muskogee Foundation and a third tenant coming soon. White said old wood facades have been replaced with metal awnings.

There’s more to come. A new Olive Garden is to open later this year near the newly opened Whataburger on Shawnee Bypass. A relocated Church’s Chicken, renamed Church’s Texas Chicken, is due to open. A new QuikTrip is to open in June at the corner of York Street and Shawnee Bypass.

People are lining up to play pickle ball at Spaulding Park. Top photo, Brent Henry, left, follows through on a serve while teammate Tracy Scott watches for any returns. Bottom, players wait for their plays by a backstop. (Cathy Spaulding)

Georgia-Pacific and our Muskogee Mill team members are proud to manufacture quality products that help improve lives and generate sustainable outcomes that benefit society We are fortunate to operate in a community that is aligned with our values.

Thank you, Muskogee, for your continued support.

Muskogee Mill

19 years

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Fort Gibson to celebrate 200 years

By Wendy Burton MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

When Col. Matthew Arbuckle of the 7th infantry oversaw the founding of Fort Gibson in 1824, he likely couldn’t have imagined what the area would be like 200 years later.

Fort Gibson grew into a small town over those two centuries, and one that, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society, can claim many

“firsts” in Oklahoma—including the first telephone in the state, first school for the blind, first steamboat landing, and first drama theater.

Now the historic fort and town plan to celebrate its bicentennial on April 20 with a day filled with reenactments and activities at the place it all started, and music and entertainment

all over town.

“There will be something for every walk of life—including concerts, a parade, reenactments, and a school play,” said Fort Gibson Mayor Tim Smith.

“I’m privileged and excited to serve Fort Gibson as mayor on our historic 200th birthday.”

At 10 a.m., the town will kick off

festivities with a grand parade that will end at the Fort Gibson Historic Site, 907 N. Garrison Ave.

At the historic site, guest speakers presenting will include Trait Thompson, state legislators and other dignitaries. There will be cake and refreshments and the 80-acre historic site will be open to explore.

Visitors enjoy vendors and food trucks in downtown Fort Gibson at a festival last year. The Bicentennial celebration in town on April 20 includes downtown activities, an all-day concert, parade, and more. (Wendy Burton)

Max Jackman of Muskogee, left, learns how to load a cannon during encampment days at the fort in Fort Gibson. (File photo)

City

There will be living historians demonstrating 19th-century soldier and civilian life throughout the day and reenactors camping all weekend. Visitors can also sign up to view a replica 19-th-century Keelboat on a walking tour along the river.

In downtown Fort Gibson, revelers can enjoy craft vendors, a kids’ zone play area, food trucks, and more from 10 a.m.

to 4 p.m.

At Refresco Soccer fields, 1059 W. Poplar Steet, the town is hosting an all-day concert. Stoney LaRue, Kaitlin Butts, Casey West, and five more Red Dirt bands and musicians will perform from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. More concert information, including the full line-up, and tickets sales can be found at partyatthefort.com.

Fort Gibson’s High School Tiger Theatre Company is performing an original musical written by drama teacher Melanie Wicks celebrating the bicentennial of the fort site with three shows: April 18 at 7 p.m., April 20 at 2 p.m., and April 21 at 2 p.m. at the high school auditorium, 500 S. Ross St. Tickets can be purchased at the door: $10 for adults and $5 for students using cash or check

Bill Ferguson, member of the Sixth Living History Association, reenacts the life of a hunter camping near the fort for Fort Gibson first graders. (File photos)

(no credit cards).

There are more events going on around town, including a baseball tournament and a dodge ball tournament, commemorative T-shirts for sale, and more—as the mayor said, the day will have something for every walk of life.

Follow the Fort Gibson Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Gibson Historical Site for up-to-date festival information.

Port expands development reach

By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

Port Muskogee’s industrial development efforts reach beyond its home base along the Arkansas River.

It reaches to the Port’s John T. Griffin Industrial Park along Smith Ferry Road. There, Polaris Technologies, Inc. is investing $100 million to establish Muskogee’s first data center facility, said Port Muskogee Executive Director

Kimbra Scott.

Another industry, Stardust Power, chose Muskogee as the location for building a battery-grade lithium refinery.

“These announcements reinforce Muskogee’s appeal to emerging industries and its commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth,” Scott said. “These new industries complement

the existing manufacturing base and contribute to the diversification of Muskogee’s economy.”

Scott said manufacturing continues to be Muskogee’s “cornerstone industry.”

Daltile recently marked the 20th Anniversary of its Muskogee plant. Other significant investments come from

Georgia-Pacific, Captive Aire Systems and Vallourec.

“These investments have led to notable job creation and industrial activity in our community,” she said.

“Recent announcements in the tech and electric vehicle sectors further highlight Muskogee’s diversification and appeal to emerging industries.”

Port Muskogee’s Three Forks Harbor offers a marina where people can dock their boats, plus the Robinson Gallery and Event Center. (Cathy Spaulding)

A crane lifts a Polaris Technologies unit onto a truck near the John T. Griffin Industrial Park. (Cathy Spaulding)

Scott said that, over the past 12 months, Muskogee has reported 880 new jobs and an anticipated $1.25 billion in capital investment.

“These announcements speak to our community’s unwavering dedication to fostering an environment where innovation, opportunity, and prosperity exist,” Scott said. “Furthermore, Muskogee’s consistent ranking among Oklahoma’s top counties for capital investment and job creation solidifies its position as a regional economic leader. Notably, Muskogee has been recognized as the number one Most Affordable City and as part of a top 10 large manufacturing HUB in the United States by Business Facilities Magazine (2023). These acco-

lades serve as a testament to our collective efforts in driving economic growth. They underscore the ongoing progress in Muskogee, achieved through collaboration and a shared commitment to building a vibrant community for all.”

Of course, Port Muskogee has seen plenty of activity along the river, as well. Shipping along McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System offers connections to ports on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, plus international ports through the Gulf of Mexico.

Several industries are located near Port facilities.

At least 312,360 tons of rail cargo moved each year, from its facilities, according to a port Facebook post.

A worker guides a cherry picker around the Polaris Technologies substation south of Muskogee. (Cathy Spaulding)

Workers with Cook Construction secure a Polaris Technologies unit onto a truck near the John T. Griffin Industrial Park. (Cathy Spaulding)

Port Muskogee’s Robinson Gallery & Event Center, at Three Forks Harbor, has been the site of numerous events. The Port recently hosted 13 teachers from eight area schools for the Take Flight professional development course on drone technology. This, too, could mean more jobs for the Muskogee area.

“In your classrooms is the future workforce of Muskogee,”

said.

Scott said Port Muskogee “humbly embraces the responsibility of foster-

ing industrial and workforce development within our community.”

“Through initiatives like Ready. Set.Move. and helping coordinate strategic infrastructure investments, we endeavor to cultivate an environment conducive to business investment and job creation,” she said. “Our focus lies in ensuring the

preparedness of industrial sites and harnessing federal and state resources to bolster new business recruitment efforts. We understand that the investments made today, whether in our workforce or infrastructure, carry the potential for profound and transformative effects on Muskogee’s economy in the years to come.”

Sara Nichols, who does workforce development at Port Muskogee, told teachers that aerospace and drone technology is a growing field.

Nichols

Sarah Nichols, who does workforce development at Port Muskogee, welcomes area educators to a professional development seminar at the Robinson Gallery and Event Center. (Cathy Spaulding)

THE BEAUTY &FLEXIBILITY

We have recently come out of an interest rate phenomenon that Iwould imagine we will most likely never seen again-at be right in the middle of the spectrum between whether it is abuyer or seller’smarket as inventory is slowly increasing.

Oklahoma has done well with our real estate values as the properties are appraising and there really hasn’tbeen too many with an average of 5% negotiated list to sales price.

Idonot know if anyone remembers the double-digit interest rates? Isure do and had 14% on our home loan. Since most doable! How this works is taking amonthly payment, dividing it by 12 months and applying that amount each month to that the interest would have been calculated on! When we had applied this to our loan, we were able to pay our home off

DON’T WAIT TO BUY REAL ESTATE---BUY REAL ESTATEAND WAIT!!!

In closing here is another free flashback—in 1971 the interest rate was 7.33%. If you had waited for rates to drop, you would rates to go down, while house values quadrupled.

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MUSKOGEE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MPS shows progress on outside, inside

By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

Improved buildings across Muskogee Public Schools show only part of the district’s progress.

Major projects finished in 2023 include rehabilitation of Sadler Arts Academy, which included dedicating an area to Manual Training High School, which originally inhabited the building. Another major project was a new entrance and fine arts area at Muskogee High School.

Assistant MPS Superintendent Lance Crawley said conversion of Grant Foreman Elementary into the Early Childhood Center should be finished by August, Crawley said.

“This summer, MPS will complete the installation of a secure vestibule at Irving and add new curtain walls and doors at the PAC, Grant Foreman

and Harris-Jobe,” Crawley said. “Card reader access will be installed in all buildings on the high school campus. The transformed Rougher Hall at the High School will be completed with the Muskogee Outstanding Alumni Display as a key feature in that space. The inside of the PAC will be addressed with new paint, new house lights, all-new seating, a new sound system, and possible improvements to the stage area.”

Much more progress is happening inside the schools. This includes resources to help improve reading in all grade levels. For example, reading interventionists were hired at each elementary school. One interventionist worked with kindergarten through second grade while others worked with older students.

“We have found that the impact of such a small staffing change has decreased the number of students in our Tier 3 instruction,” Crawley said.

At the 6th and 7th Grade Academy, any sixth-grader not reading on grade level takes the Reading 101 class to help catch up on reading deficits.

Muskogee High offers many options to help students reach secondary goals, he said. Rougher Innovations Academy, recently relocated to MHS, allows students to learn on a virtual platform while coming to school in person one day a week, he said.

“This is also a great fit for students that don’t thrive in a traditional school setting but still wish to earn a diploma and seek higher education,” Crawley said.

MHS also offers an Early College High School program, which enables students to graduate MHS with an associate’s degree from Connors State College.

Career tech programs include Connect Welding and agriculture education.

“Muskogee High School continues to pride itself on the vast array of opportunities that are offered on its campus,” Crawley said. “From AFJROTC to Fine Arts to Athletics and beyond, each program puts a heavy emphasis on the importance of identifying postsecondary opportunities and implementing a plan to reach postsecondary goals and careers.”

The district also sees progress in its campaign to target chronically absent students. Visitors tour the Manual Training High School alumni center inside Sadler Arts Academy.

BY THE NUMBERS

FUNDING SOURCES

Local:

$10,375,000

County: $970,000

State: $26,155,000 Federal: $6,000,000

Total projected: $43,500,000

BUILDING PRINCIPALS

Cherokee Elementary: Latricia Dawkins.

Creek Elementary: Stacy Miller.

Irving Elementary: Katy Thomson.

Pershing Elementary: Lisa Rogers.

Tony Goetz Elementary: Sarah McWilliams.

Sadler Arts Academy: Ronia Davison.

6th and 7th Grade Academy: Reubin McIntosh.

8th and 9th Grade Academy: Ryan Buell.

Muskogee High School: Kinsey Cook.

Rougher Alternative Academy: Lisa Charboneau.

Rougher Innovations Academy: Jennifer Kiser.

DISTRICT LEADERSHIP

Superintendent: Jarod Mendenhall.

BOARD OF EDUCATION

President: Deborah Horsechief.

Assistant Superintendent: Lance Crawley. Deputy Superintendent: Kim Dyce.

Vice President: Danny Shiew. Members: Tommy Anderson, Bobby Jefferson, Larry Stewart.

HILLDALE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Education Facilities, grants transform school

By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

People don’t have to go far to see what’s new at Hilldale Public School.

Just step through the bold, colorful entrances at the high school and middle school. Red and black Hornet designs pop out on each classroom door.

“This summer, we’re breaking ground for a new facility on our wrestling program,” Superintendent Erik Puckett said. “This summer, we’re looking at maybe remodeling our upper elementary and maybe doing some interior work, some

BY THE NUMBERS

flooring and some paint.”

Hilldale also has new things going on inside the classrooms. Puckett said a lot of it is funded by grants from the City of Muskogee Foundation and the Hilldale Education Foundation.

“City of Muskogee Foundation has given financially to Hilldale Public Schools by supporting our robotics, and band programs during summer programs,” Puckett said. “Over several years, the foundation has provided technology for students and staff, curriculum for such things as preparing

work ready students, supplies and equipment for the STEAM labs at all three school sites, and many more projects.”

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. Puckett said the Hilldale Education Foundation also has helped pay for STEAM labs.

“From City of Muskogee Foundation, I know we have a summer grant we’ve had for the past few years for our summer band program, to help transition our kids from middle school to high SCHOOL

DISTRICT LEADERSHIP

Superintendent: Erik Puckett

Assistant Superintendents:

Dr. Deborah Tennison, Chad Kirkhart

BUILDING PRINCIPALS

Elementary: Patty Bilyard

Middle School: Darren Riddle

High School: Josh Nixon

FUNDING SOURCES

(Amount from each fund)

Local: $2,910,218.90

County: $465,692.83

State: $13,156,794.60

Federal: $2,120,001.54

Total projected: $18,652,707.91

500 E. Smith Ferry Road

(918) 683-0273

http://www.hilldale. k12.ok.us/

school band, get some training for our kids,” Puckett said. “They also help pay for some programs to help our seniors and those in alternate ed prepare for the workforce and try to determine what kind of work path they’re going to take.”

Hilldale also is seeking people to be instructional coaches for the next school year. Puckett said the coaches will “hopefully help focus on standards and what we want taught in the classroom.”

Reading and math is a primary focus from elementary through high school,” he said.

Puckett said instructional coaches are taught and trained to help teachers with learning styles and classroom management.

“We have so many teachers who have not been trained to be teachers, so many emergency certifications,” Puckett said. “We need people in the classrooms helping our staff become better teachers, basically on the job training for some.”

Hilldale eighth-grader Archer Hogle, left, and junior James Broaderick work on robots in preparation for a competition.

(File photo)

Students pass by the Hilldale Middle School entrance, part of a bold new look at the high school and middle school. (CATHY SPAULDING)

Education School expands STEM, campus safety

By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

Fort Gibson Schools continues to expand to meet needs of its growing district.

The district recently converted a former church on Ross Street into a STEM and Robotics center.

“This additional space provides students with enhanced opportunities to explore various technologies, fostering a strong foundation in science and technology fields,” Superintendent Scott Farmer said. “With expanded facilities, the district can now offer more robust STEM programs in the middle school. We are already seeing the benefit of increased interest in the programs.”

Fort Gibson also is moving up, adding a second floor of elementary classrooms and an elevator to the Jere Gibson Multipurpose Building.

“It’s going to require quite a bit of work, so we’re going to start that in the summertime,” Farmer said.

The additions are part of a $6.4 million bond issue passed in 2023. The bond issue also funded new technology, such as flat-screen TVs at each school, as well as playground equipment and auditorium improvements.

Farmer said Fort Gibson has received numerous federal grants aimed at enhancing safety on campus.

“These grants have facilitated the addition of extra counselors and School Resource Officers, along with providing staff with training to ensure a safe learning environment,” he said. “Investments in physical infrastructure improvements such as security cameras, lighting, fencing, and communication devices have been made to strengthen security measures and expedite communication with law enforcement. The implementation of more secure entrances demonstrates the district’s proactive approach to campus safety.”

Overall, these new initiatives underscore the district’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and the well-being of its students and staff. The expansion of STEM and robotics programs, coupled with improvements in campus safety, reflects a forward-thinking approach to education and the holistic development of students.

(File photo)

Fort Gibson Schools information technology workers Connor Landers, left, and Max Wicks mount a big screen TV on a high school wall. A recent bond issue paid for new screens at all schools.

BY THE NUMBERS

FUNDING SOURCES

Local:

$5,782,153

County:

$425,484

State:

$8,970,673

Federal:

$3,480,578

BUILDING PRINCIPALS

High School:

Ben Pemberton, assistant, Chuck London

DISTRICT LEADERSHIP

Superintendent: Scott Farmer

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Jennifer Rouse

W. Scott Abbott

Haley Norman

Middle School: Todd Friend, assistant, Dusty Sifers

SCHOOL INFORMATION

Assistant Superintendent: Tom Stiles

Josh Young Patrick Dause.

Intermediate Elementary: Andrea Sifers

Early Learning Center: Cheryl Hill

Fort Gibson’s Hostile Gato robotics team — from left, junior Tanner Quintana, instructor Tim Berres and senior Daniel Lundy — have plenty more room for projects now that Fort Gibson schools converted a nearby church into a classroom. (Cathy Spaulding)

Nursing thrives, enrollment surges

By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

Connors State College continues to build toward the future while honoring its past.

Nursing continues to be a major draw at Connors’ Muskogee campus.

“That’s certainly the biggest program up there,” Connors President Dr. Ron Ramming said. “The nursing program is still doing pretty well. We graduated approximately 50 nurses this fall and the spring classes will be about that same number.”

Connors offers an associate degree program, which helps guide students toward careers as registered nurses.

Ramming said students are attracted by “the field itself.”

“Right now the average RN in the state makes about $73,000 a year,” he said. “With a two-year degree someone can certainly make a good salary, especially for those who like to help people and have the a heart for it, it’s a good program.”

Connors’ new Classrooms to Clinicals program,

set to begin this fall, will bolster nursing even further, Ramming said.

“A high school student can take all the prerequisites they need during their junior and senior year to make application for the nursing program,” he said.

The program has accepted 44 high-achieving applicants from 24 high schools.

“Oklahoma’s community colleges have always been at the forefront in bringing unique opportunities to concurrent students,” said Connors registrar Tosha Stout. “To be able to provide students with an affordable pathway to a career in nursing will be a game-changer for many.”

The Muskogee campus also is getting an update to its heating, air conditioning and ventilation system.

Ramming said Connors is adding a couple of thousand square feet of space, funded by a Title III federal grant.

“That has potential to be really good for us,” he

said. “It will help us implement an initiative called Guided Pathways, which will help us help students lock in on a career path and help us better help those students get where they want to go.”

On the Warner campus, Connors’ historic fine arts center was renamed in honor of former President Donnie Nero.

Nero, Connors’ 15th president, was the first African-American president of a non-historically black institution in the state of Oklahoma.

Ramming said Connors has had a great year.

“Enrollment is up double digits and we’re really tickled about that,” he said.

The men’s and women’s basketball teams recently made it to the NJCAA National Tournaments.

Connors also started a soccer program last fall.

“That’s been a ton of fun,” Ramming said. “Attracting a different brand of students than we’ve had in the past. The men’s team has a lot of international students and they’ve just been a blast. They’re fun to have around.”

Former Connors State College President Dr. Donnie Nero and his wife Shirley Nero, second from left, stand by a plaque naming Connors’ fine arts facility after him. (File photo)

Connors State College continues to guide area students toward rewarding nursing careers. (File photo)

BY THE NUMBERS STUDENT

Connors State’s Hatiana Releford, left, drives past Murray State’s Sosefina Langi during the National Junior College Athletic Association Region 2 Division 1 women’s basketball quarterfinals at Rougher Village. The Cowgirls won the regional title advancing to the national championship tournament where they lost in the first round.

(Matt Harmon/Connors State)

are primarily online.

* Percentages will add up to above 100% due to students who identify as multiracial..

FY 2023 Total Budget: $25,848,432

FY 2023 State Appropriation: $6.45 Million

Non-resident: $313.76/per hour TOP

TUITION AND MANDATORY FEES

Resident:

$153.00/per hour

ICTC adapts programs to employers

By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX

Indian Capital Technology Center succeeds and grows by listening to businesses and to students.

“We don’t tell employers what we are teaching, we ask them what do they need taught,” said CTC Superintendent Tony Pivec.

Pivec said ICTC uses employer input to adjust its curriculum and purchase appropriate equipment.

The Muskogee campus recently retooled its Service Careers Program to better meet workforce needs and student interest. The program moved from a lawn maintenance and custodial services program to what is now called Facilities Maintenance Technician. The redesigned program focuses on entry level skills in carpentry, electricity, plumbing, HVAC and lawn services. Upon completion of the program, graduates will have developed a proficiency in multiple trade areas that will enable

them to enter the workforce in the maintenance departments for medium to large companies, schools and government organizations. The change has led to an increased interest and enrollment.

ICTC reviews its program offerings each year.

The staff checks program enrollments, completion/retention rates and job placement of graduates four or five months after graduation.

“I must admit, I’m always tremendously impressed at what a great job our instructors do in these three key areas,” Pivec said. “Next year, our plan is to add credential/certification pass rates to our rubric in review of programs. Early pilots are showing our instructors are doing fantastic in this area too. For example, licensure in our health programs ranges from 85% to 100% pass rates — that means we are having a tremendous impact on the healthcare shortage.”

ICTC pairs that information with student pro -

gram interest surveys, workforce needs as identified by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and listening to local employers. That helps officials identify areas needing new or updated programs, Pivec said.

Top growth areas “to identify areas we need to be considering new programs.”

ICTC continues to see growth in health care, information technology and licensed trades.

Wagoner County is another area of growth. A new campus in Coweta is to open in April to serve students in Coweta, Haskell, Porter and Wagoner. This will enable the Muskogee campus to focus more on students from Muskogee, Hilldale, Fort Gibson, Okay and other districts.

“So, this should be welcome news to our partner schools as more students look to technology centers as part of their educational opportunities,” Pivec said.

Precision machines instructor David Acuff helps Alex Keeling of Boulevard Christian School program a machine at Indian Capital Technology Center. (Cathy Spaulding)

Indian Capital Technology Center HVAC instructor Terry Hodges, left, works with Coweta student Paige Pipke. (Cathy Spaulding)

BY THE NUMBERS LOCATIONS

MUSKOGEE CAMPUS STUDENTS

Four campus locations districtwide.

Muskogee Campus: 2403 N. 41st St. East, Muskogee; (918) 6876383

Sallisaw Campus: 401 E. Houser Industrial Blvd., Sallisaw; (918) 775-9119

Stilwell Campus: Rt. 6 Box 3320 (Oklahoma 59 and Maryetta Road), Stilwell; (918) 696-3111

Tahlequah Campus: 240 CareerTech Way (Vo-Tech Road), Tahlequah, (918) 456-2594

Adult Health Careers Campus: 2403 N. 41st St. East, Muskogee; (918) 3487998

ADULT TUITION, FEES In-district

President: Monte Madewell

Vice President: Darrell Russell

Clerks: Tom Stiles, Mark Walters and Jerry Needham.

Oklahoma School for the Blinds students cross Broadway and approach a sidewalk during their White Cane Day trek through downtown Muskogee. (File photo)

BY THE NUMBERS

STUDENT INFORMATION:

Each student noted is enrolled in at least one class at Muskogee (whether on ground or online).

NSU doesn’t separate faculty by campus, these numbers reflect faculty who taught a class that originated in Muskogee this academic year.)

STUDENTS COME FROM

TUITION/PER CREDIT HOUR

BUDGETS (ALL CAMPUSES)

FY 2023 Total Budget: $108,092,729

FY 2023 State Appropriation: $29,830,931

NSU’s new president, Rodney Hanley, center, and his wife, Sarah Hanley, speak with area community members. From left are: Pam Moore, the Hanleys and Laura Kuester, director of Help In Crisis. (Skyler Hammons/CNHI Oklahoma)

Lindyn Ivory Sectional

Tyler Creek Farm Table

Huddleup Nutmeg Drop-down Sofa

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Muskogee City Council

TOM MARTINDALE

Ward IV City Councilor Tom Martingale, 78, said he owes it to Muskogee to pay back some of the benefits he’s received here.

“Since I started working here in Muskogee over 20 years ago this city has been very good to me and my family,” Martingale said. “I ran for public office in an attempt to give back to this community.”

Martingale defeated former councilor Tracy McGee in Feb. 2024 for the seat and feels economic stability is important for Muskogee.

“Financial stability is always the foundation of any institution because without it there is no way to fund the many departments that provide the necessary services any city requires,” he said. “Developing the skillset to get the city officials and funding opportunities to work together has taken me a lifetime and I look forward to bringing that experience to the Council.”

TRACY HOOS

Dr. Tracy Hoos, 47, is a local pediatrician who was appointed in July 2020 to the Muskogee City Council as Ward IV representative. He succeeded Marlon Coleman, who was elected by Muskogee voters to be the city’s first Black mayor.

Hoos was graduated in 1994 from Hilldale High School. He went on to earn degrees at Northeastern State University and Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency with the University of Oklahoma.

Hoos said he likes to barbecue, something for which he has earned several awards for his talent at barbecue competitions, including Exchange Club of Muskogee’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off. He also enjoys spending time with his family and pets.

He and his wife, Kristi, have two sons: Trey and Cadyn.

MELODY CRANFORD

Ward III Councilor

Melody Cranford was elected to the position in April and has a vision for moving the city forward.

“I believe in the people of the city of Muskogee and I want to be a part of the growth that I see taking place daily. I believe that when we combine the vision that I have for Ward III and the city as a whole with the vision of the other council members, we can see change that will move our city forward.”

Cranford, who teaches fifth grade at Cherokee Elementary, believes the city’s infrastructure is of vital importance to economic growth.

“I believe the most pressing capital need currently facing the city is infrastructure. I think we should take advantage of our centralized location and invest in our infrastructure to support air, water, and ground transportation which would lead to more competitive business opportunities for the Port.”

DAN HALL

Ward II Councilor

Dan Hall returns to his seat he held until 2019, saying housing development in west Muskogee is hampered by lack of infrastructure, particularly pump stations to get sewage to the treatment plant east of Muskogee.

Hall replaces Alex Reynolds who decided to not seek another term as Ward II councilor.

“I’m looking forward to working with all the new councilors and some of the old councilors,” Hall said. “I’m hoping we can get some stuff going as far as infrastructure and manufacturing facilities coming in. Try to grow Muskogee, try to work together as a team and get things moving.”

Hall said his reason for returning to the council had to do with experience.

“To bring my experience of being a city councilor back to the council,” Hall said. “We have several big projects needing to get started with infrastructure and water treatment. Pump stations, city streets, making the city a safer and clearer place to live and raise their families.”

SHIRLEY HILTON-FLANARY

Shirley Hilton-Flanary, 72, is a lifelong Muskogee resident. She as been involved with the lending business for 40 years, most recently as American Bank’s senior vice president for mortgage lending.

Flattery said, “If Muskogee is to secure a successful future, I believe there are two components that go hand in hand: Cultivation of a community that attracts younger generations and infrastructure improvements.”

She said her favorite thing about Muskogee is its friendliness.

“It’s a great community to raise children,” she said. “Our cost of living, that’s another thing we have here. We’re surrounded by lakes. I think that’s a big plus.”

C.B. ABEL

C.B. Abel is a third-generation Muskogee police officer, serving nearly 22 years with Muskogee Police Department before retiring in May of 2023. His son Austin is an officer with MPD.

“I made a lot of friends here, a lot of friends in the community,” Abel said. “I love my job, I love the community, I love meeting people in the community.”

Abel, Ward I City Councilor, is in his first term on the council, taking over for Patrick Cale, and said he has seen a lot of changes during his years in Muskogee.

“It’s a lot better now than what it was,” he said. “It’s cleaned up a lot. A lot of people have done a lot of good things for Muskogee, and the properties look nice.”

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MUSKOGEE CITY COUNCIL CONTINUED

JAIME LYNN STOUT

Stout attended school at both Hilldale and Oktaha school districts. She has an associate’s degree from Connors State College as well as a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from Northeastern State University. She is employed with ORS Nasco as an information technology support analyst.

She also is actively involved with her church, Immanuel Baptist. She has served in leadership and volunteer roles in many community organizations serving with Relay for Life, Habitat for Humanity, Junior Achievement, Gospel Rescue Mission, Women in Safe Home, The Barracks and United Way Day of Caring. She is a councilor in Ward II.

DERRICK REED

Reed won election in 2012 and took over the seat of Robert Perkins. In addition to his backing from labor supporters, Reed credited Perkins for his win.

Reed said Perkins groomed him for the city council.

Reed, who oversees various programs at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, referenced the date of his victory with that of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last public speech before he was slain by an assassin. In

GET TO KNOW YOUR LEADERS...

that speech is remembered the phrase, “I’ve been to the mountain top.”

It was April 3, 1968, when Dr. King gave his last public speech. On April 3, 2012, Reed stood in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center giving his victory speech. Reach Ward III Councilor Reed at dreed@muskogeeonline.org.

MAYOR PATRICK CALE

Patrick Cale was elected as Muskogee’s mayor in Feb. 2024, replacing Marlon J. Coleman.

Cale is a longtime businessman and civil servant who knows that honesty and transparency truly are the best policies. When it comes to his hometown, he is upfront about his ideas and takes concerns seriously. He was first elected to public office in 2016 as Ward I City Councilor and was reappointed to the position in July of 2022, replacing Stephanie Jones.

“I’ve sold what we’re capable of doing in Muskogee over the next couple of years,” he said. “Industrial is starting to take off. We’re going to be looking at a bond issue for the city. Big things are going to happen and I wanted to be here to see it all through.”

During his campaign for mayor, Cale said economic development was important in moving Muskogee forward in the 21st Century.

“Industrial development is what leads the city of Muskogee,” Cale said. “It’s going to be what enables us to build the subdivisions, it helps sales tax base. It’s going to be so much, when you’ve got that much stuff going on.”

Muskogee County Commissioners

KENNY PAYNE

County Commissioner, District 3

HOMETOWN: Muskogee.

FAMILY: Wife, Stephanie Payne; two children, Tori and Tate.

OCCUPATION: Regional sales, Springfield Grocer Co.

EDUCATION: Northeastern State University, safety and education.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Timothy Baptist Church.

HOBBIES: My children’s activities, classic cars and trucks, and golfing.

KEN DOKE

County Commissioner, District 1.

HOMETOWN: Muskogee.

guns and spending time with family.

KEITH HYSLOP

County Commissioner, District 2.

HOMETOWN: Webbers Falls.

OCCUPATION: County Commissioner, District 2; construction inspector, project manager.

FAMILY: Wife: Tamra Hyslop; Daughters: Lauren Harris, Ashley Beard, Celeste Reaves, Ashton Burleson; Son, Richard Burleson Jr.; five grandchildren.

FAMILY: Wife, Jodi; three children, Kaje, Kensli Faith, and Jenlee Hope.

OCCUPATION: Vice president, business development director at Arvest Bank in Muskogee.

EDUCATION: University of Phoenix,

bachelor’s degree in business administration.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: New Hope Assembly of God.

HOBBIES: Hunting, fishing, shooting

EDUCATION: High school graduate; numerous state certifications for roads and bridges.

HOBBIES: Work, spending time with family.

COMMISSIONER Kenny Payne COMMISSIONER Ken Doke

COMMISSIONER Keith Hyslop

COUNCILOR

COUNCILOR

COUNCILOR

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Public Safety

CITY OF MUSKOGEE

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Director: Tyler Evans

Phone: (918) 684-6295

Fax: (918) 684-6316

E-mail: EmergencyManagement@ muskogeeonline.org

Address: 229 W. Okmulgee Ave. Mailing address: P.O. Box 1927, Muskogee, OK 744021927

MUSKOGEE COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Director: Jeff Smith — (918)

682-2551

Fax: (918) 684-1699

Address: 220 State St., #20, Muskogee, OK 74402 Mailing address: P.O. Box 2274, Muskogee, OK 74402 E-mail: mcem@ readymuskogee.org POLICE DEPARTMENT Chief: Johnny Teehee — (918) 683-8000 112 S. Third St., Muskogee, OK 74402

Fax: (918) 680-3197

Chief: Jody Moore — (918) 684-6252

Fax: (918) 684-6253

E-Mail: fire@ muskogeeonline.org

E-mail: MPD@muskogeepd. org FIRE DEPARTMENT

GET TO KNOW YOUR LEADERS...

State Elected Officials

DEWAYNE PEMBERTON

District 9 Oklahoma Senator (R-Muskogee)

HOMETOWN: Cabot, Arkansas.

FAMILY: Wife, Claire Pemberton; three sons, Matt, Ben, and Adam Pemberton; six grandchildren.

OCCUPATION: Retired educator.

EDUCATION: University of Central Arkansas, bachelor’s degree with a double major in social studies and health-physical education; University of Arkansas-Little Rock; Northeastern State University, master’s degree in education administration; Oklahoma State UniversityTulsa, principal and superintendent specialist certification.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: St. Joseph Catholic Church.

HOBBIES: Hunting, fishing and playing with grandchildren.

CAPITOL ADDRESS: 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Rm. 427; Oklahoma City, OK 73105; (405) 521-5533; pemberton@ oksenate.gov

Executive Assistant: Peggy White. (405) 521-5533

CHRIS SNEED

District 14 Oklahoma Representative (R-Fort Gibson)

HOMETOWN: Fort Gibson.

FAMILY: Wife, Joie Sneed; three children: Summer Brock, Cody Sloan and Keaton Sloan; one grandchild.

OCCUPATION: Business owner, Chris Sneed Insurance.

REPRESENTATIVE

EDUCATION: Graduate of Hulbert High School; Attended Murray State College and Northeastern State University.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian; Member Muskogee First Assembly.

HOBBIES: Hunting, watching college football and baseball, playing golf.

CAPITOL ADDRESS: 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd.; Room 300C; Oklahoma City, OK 73105; (405) 557-7310.

Legislative Assistant: Chris Morriss (405) 557-7310

NEIL HAYS

District 13 Oklahoma Representative (R-Muskogee)

HOMETOWN: Checotah.

FAMILY: Wife Nicole Hays; Children, Morgan Huerta, Nick Hays, Chance Hays, Brett Hays, Camden Hays and Connor Hays.

OCCUPATION: Farmers insurance agent.

EDUCATION: (MBA) Masters Degree in Business Administration.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Methodist

HOBBIES: Hunting, Fishing, Golf.

CAPITOL ADDRESS: 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Room 302; Oklahoma City, OK 73105.

Legislative Assistant: Glenda Mollman; (405) 5577302

RANDY RANDLEMAN

District 15 Oklahoma Representative (R-Eufaula)

HOMETOWN: Eufaula.

FAMILY: Wife, Jennifer; Children: Brandon, Chad, Jordan, Zachary, Rhea; Grandchildren: Julianne, Tinley, Case.

OCCUPATION: Licensed psychologist.

EDUCATION: Associate’s degree from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M; Bachelor’s degree from University of Tulsa; Master’s degree from Northeastern State University; Ph.D from Oklahoma State University.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Community Culture Church, Eufaula.

HOBBIES: Love to draw and travel; like to use my bulldozer, it’s relaxing; hunting, fishing.

CAPITOL ADDRESS: 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd.; Room 302; Oklahoma City, OK 73105; (405) 557-7375

Legislative Assistant: Kaley Mills (405) 557-7375

Jeff Smith Tyler Evans

SENATOR Dewayne Pemberton

Neil Hays

Johnny Teehee

REPRESENTATIVE Chris Sneed

Jody Moore Laurel Havens

REPRESENTATIVE Randy Randleman

Services

LAKE AREA UNITED WAY SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, INDIAN NATIONS COUNCIL

Serves over 18 counties in eastern Oklahoma. Scouting has helped build future leaders by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun and adventure in the outdoors. www.okscouts.org (918) 743-6125.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF TAHLEQUAH

Provides youth development to Cherokee County youth by working to inspire, educate, and empower kindergarten-eighth graders to realize their full potential as productive and responsible citizens in a safe and fun environment. www.tahlequahbgca. org (918) 456-6888.

GIRL SCOUTS OF EASTERN OKLAHOMA

Girl scouting equips young girls in making better life choices by developing leadership, confidence, and girls of courage through a variety of scouting programs. www.gseok.org (918) 683-7738.

MUSKOGEE COUNTY COUNCIL OF YOUTH SERVICES — MCCOYS

Provides guidance and character building programs in two United Way funded areas; 1) supervised community experiences for youth and young adults working within the judicial system, and 2) in-school “Lifeskills” training for 6-8th graders at Braggs, Okay and Muskogee Public Schools. www.mccys.org (918) 682-2841.

OK CIRCLE OF CARE - PAL

Faith-based agency providesfoster care and prevention services throughout the state of Oklahoma. circleofcare.org (918) 456-6166

RISE - CENTER FOR PREVENTION AND EMPOWERMENT

RISE CPE assists adolescent girls by offering programs specialized in helping at risk girls, girls who have experienced domestic minor sex trafficking, commercial sexual exploitation, or sexual violence, and their families. www.risecpe.org (918) 910-5131

UNITED METHODIST CHILDREN’S HOME

Provides a spectrum of transitional living assistance into early adulthood for

at-risk high school and college-aged youth through an independent living program to better equip them in making their way into the adult world. (918) 456-6166.

DOLLY PARTON IMAGINATION LIBRARY

Provides age appropriate books to children ages 0-5 years of age each month to boost children during the early formative years and put them on a path towards a successful education. www.lakeareaunitedway.org (918) 682-1364.

AMERICAN RED CROSS

A volunteer led humanitarian organization. United Way support touches lives daily with relief to victims of disasters as well as emergency and prevention/preparedness training. www.oklahomaredcross.org (918) 682-1366.

BRIDGES OUT OF POVERTY

Focuses on empoweringthose in poverty to investigate the barriers that keep people from getting ahead and educates the entirecommunity on the complexities of poverty. www.muskogeebridgesoutofpoverty. org (918) 840-5331

LEGAL AID SERVICES OF OKLAHOMA

Providing high-quality civil legal services to lower income and elderly residents. www.legalaidok.org (918) 683-5681.

SALVATION ARMY

Provides essential programs 365 days a year, helping meet the needs of individuals in our community who needs it most. southernusa.salvationarmy.org/muskogee (918) 682-3384.

CASA FOR CHILDREN IN MUSKOGEE — COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES

CASA recruits, screens, trains, and supports community volunteers to advocate in the best interests of children involved in juvenile cases of neglect and abuse in Muskogee, Wagoner and Sequoyah district courts. www.casaok.org (918) 686-8199.

CASA OF CHEROKEE COUNTRY

Advocating as a voice for children who enter the court system as a result of abuse and/or neglect by providing trained volunteers to speak independently for the best

interests of the children. www.oklahomacasa. org (918) 456-8788.

GREEN COUNTRY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES

Provides comprehensive outpatient and crisis response services to clients of all ages in Muskogee and McIntosh Counties. Services are confidential, effective, and easily accessible. gcbhs.org (918) 6828407

KELLY B. TODD CEREBRAL PALSY & NEURO-MUSCULAR CENTER

Provides children and adults with motor deficit or developmental delays physical therapy to enhance mobility and interaction with friends and family. www. kbtoddcpcenter.org (918) 683-4621.

KIDS’ SPACE – MUSKOGEE COUNTY CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER

Provides a child-friendly environment for the intervention, assessment, and inves-

tigation needed to assist with prosecution, treatment and prevention of physically and sexually abused children. Provides educational and child protective classes. www. kidsspacemuskogee.org (918) 682-4204.

VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA – RSVP (RETIRED SENIORS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM)

Creates opportunities for senior citizens to remain actively engaged in their communities through volunteer services in a variety of organizations ranging from hospitals to youth centers by utilizing their time and talents in service to others. www. voaok.org (918) 683-1578.

WOMEN IN SAFE HOME — WISH

Provides shelter, counseling, and support services to victims of domestic violence, rape, and adult survivors of child sexual assault or harassment in order to achieve safety, survival, recovery, empowerment and rehabilitation to women and children coping with domestic violence. (918) 682-7879.

918-682-1364

www.lakeareaunitedway.org

Athletes from Connors State College run across Muskogee Civic Center plaza at a ceremony capping the 2021 Walk in Her Shoes event.

Kim Jaquez Executive Director

Health & Wellness

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES

SAINT FRANCIS MUSKOGEE

Address: 300 Rockefeller Drive.

Phone: (918) 682-5501.

Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee is made up of more than 140 providers and 320 beds. The community hospital serves a seven-county area and is one of Muskogee’s top employers.

In April 2017, Eastar Health System and affiliated clinics became part of Saint Francis Health System. Along with Warren Clinic physician offices, Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee provide area residents with quality care and expanding services.

As part of Saint Francis Health System, patients in Muskogee and the surrounding communities have access to continuum of care and services offered by eastern Oklahoma’s largest health care network.

JACK C. MONTGOMERY VA MEDICAL CENTER

Address: 1011 Honor Heights Drive.

Phone: (918) 577-3000.

The Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System consists of a Joint Commission accredited, complexity Level 2 medical center in Muskogee that serves veterans in 25 counties of eastern Oklahoma. The 89-bed facility offers primary and secondary levels of inpatient medical and surgical care, as well as an inpatient rehabilitation and inpatient behavioral health unit.

As part of the Rocky Mountain Network (VISN 19), EOVAHCS has ready access to seven sister facilities for referral, although it uses the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center for the majority of its tertiary services. EOVAHCS also operates three community-based outpa -

Cherokee Nation Three Rivers Clinic performs more than 2 million outpatient visits.

Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center offers primary and secondary levels of inpatient medical and surgical care, as well as an inpatient rehabilitation and inpatient behavioral health unit.

Health & Wellness

tient clinics that provide primary and consultative care in medicine, surgery and mental health in Tulsa, Hartshorne and Vinita. In addition, they operate a Behavioral Medicine Clinic in Muskogee that provides outpatient therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder and substance abuse, and a Behavioral Medicine Clinic in Tulsa that provides outpatient mental

health therapy and substance abuse treatment.

CHEROKEE NATION THREE

RIVERS CLINIC

Address: 1001 S. 41st St. E. Phone: (918) 781-6500.

Cherokee Nation Health Services, a division of Cherokee Nation, is a

medical facility that provides nursing, nutritional, emergency medical, and behavioral and community health services. The center also offers treatment solutions for cancer and diabetes.

Cherokee Nation Health Services performs more than 2 million outpatient visits. It works with communities, families and individuals. The center additionally specializes in the areas of

dentistry, radiology, optometry and tobacco cessation. Cherokee Nation Health Services provides the Healthy Nation Program. It also maintains a residential adolescent treatment center and offers disease prevention services. The center operates a WINGS Activity Club. Cherokee Nation Health Services also provides a cancer prevention program.

Saint Francis Hospital is a community hospital that serves a seven-county area.

Quality of Life

MUSKOGEE CITY PARKS

BECKMAN PARK

North 16th Street and West Broadway

Located in the heart of Founders Place Historic District, this 3.7acre neighborhood park has a new playground, splash pad and picnic shelter.

BILL POOL PARK

Gawf and Foltz lanes

This 2.5-acre park in Phoenix Village has picnic tables, a playground, and a basketball court.

CIVITAN PARK

3301 Gibson St.

Daniel Boone’s son, Nathan, originally surveyed this 43-acre hillside park across the street from

the Oklahoma School for the Blind. The eastern boundary of the park is the boundary of the Cherokee and Creek Nations. Amenities include a concrete trail that is .8 mile in length and is the meeting place for many regular park patrons. An 18-hole disc golf course is open to the public at no charge. There are picnic areas, playground, open play areas, and a historic shelter that is available by reservation.

DOUGLAS-MAXEY PARK

South Sixth Street and West Southside Boulevard

This 2-acre park was originally two separate parks. Now considered a single park, it has picnic areas, playground, open spaces, and a basketball court.

ELLIOTT PARK

Altamont Street and Tower Hill Boulevard

One of Muskogee’s older historic parks, Elliott Park is situated on Tower Hill, the site of Muskogee’s first water tower. This beautiful treed and terraced 29-acre setting has picnic areas, playgrounds, lighted basketball courts, a shelter that is available for reservation. During summer days the sprayground, an interactive water playground, is in operation.

GULICK PARK

South Seventh and Elgin streets

This 1-acre neighborhood park has shaded picnic areas, playground, and open play areas.

HONOR HEIGHTS PARK

Honor Heights Drive

Originally purchased by the City of Muskogee in 1909, Honor Heights Park has proven to be the “the crown jewel in Muskogee’s park system.”

The idyllic setting of this 132-acre park makes it attractive to visitors year-round. There are many picnic areas, two picnic shelters, a pavilion, gazebos, and public restrooms. You also will find activities such as fishing in five lakes and ponds from the shore of the fully accessible fishing docks, playground, open play areas, three tennis courts, and a sand volleyball court. A splash pad located next to the playground area is in operation May-September. Honor Heights is home to three trails: Henry Bresser

Alfonso Gutierrez, left, pauses while Nathan Johnson works on his scooter Wednesday afternoon at the Skatepark at Midland Valley. Lighting could allow people to use the skatepark at dusk. (File photo)

Nature Trail, the Audubon Trail, which is a favorite of local birders, and the half-mile Stem Beach Trail which is a habit of local runners and walkers. Also home to the Conard Rose Garden, the C. Clay Harrell Arboretum, Art Johnson Memorial Dogwood Collection, Elbert L. Little Jr. Native Tree Collection, azalea gardens, floral gardens, white garden, and at the top of Agency Hill, you will find the Rainbow Division Memorial Amphitheater. Honor Heights Park also is home to the city’s largest festivals: The Azalea Festival and The Garden of Lights.

LOVE-HATBOX SPORTS

COMPLEX/HATBOX FIELD

34th and Arline streets

This 60-acre site is formerly a historic airport that had seen the likes of such people as Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart. Newly expanded and developed over the last several years, this complex is home to many leagues,

tournaments, and individual users.

KING PARK

Gibson Street and East Side Boulevard

This fenced park has a shaded picnic area, playground and an open play area.

LANGSTON PARK

Euclid and Sandow streets

This 2-acre park north of Shawnee Bypass has shaded picnic areas, a playground, an open area, and a basketball court.

OPTIMIST PARK

South F and Independence streets

There is a shaded playground and picnic area in this 1.5-acre park. There is also a ballfield and an open play area.

PALMER PARK

Honor Heights Drive and Denison Street

This 2-acre park is named after early Park Superintendent George Palmer. You will find shaded and sunny picnic areas, a playground, open play area, and two fishing ponds.

ROBISON PARK

Augusta and Gulick streets

This park offers a playground and sprayground with picnic areas, basketball courts, baseball/softball practice area, and soccer goals. Walking trails and outdoor fitness equipment are available, as well.

ROTARY PARK

South 24th and Elgin streets

Originally donated by the Rotary Club, this 3.5-acre park is home to a newly renovated playground and splash pad, picnic areas, open play area, pavilion, and two basketball courts.

SPAULDING PARK

East Okmulgee and East Side Boulevard

Quality of Life

This setting is home to 19 acres of many amenities and some of the first publicly planted trees in the city. There are picnic areas, a playground, open play areas, fully accessible swimming facility, tennis courts, the asphalt multipurpose Spaulding Trail, a picnic shelter (reservations available), a gazebo surrounded by the water of the park’s lake, two basketball courts, a fishing dock, and public restrooms. Located directly next to the Parks and Recreation Administration offices.

PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT FACILITIES

River Country Water Park, 3600 Arline St.

Honor Heights Park Papilion. Georgia-Pacific Butterfly House open Mother’s Day through Sept. 30.

Love-Hatbox Sports Complex, 3601 Arline St.

Muskogee Swim and Fitness Center, 566 N. Sixth St. (918) 684-6304.

Source: City of Muskogee

Runners take off for the Waterloop Run at Honor Heights Park. (File photo)

Dal-Tile Muskogee continues to be the largest producer of Floor Tile for DalTile USA, producing 134 million sq/ft per year.With over 700 different sku’sand 13 different shapes ranging up to 18x30, our team continues the search for new opportunities in the tile market. In 2024 we will see the addition of anew 15x30 tile expected to set yet another trend in porcelain tile fashion.

We continue to be proud of our top-quality Team Members hereinthe Muskogee and surrounding area. We take pride in our continued efforts around our Safety Programs, as we remain aVPP certified facility with afocus set on attaining an even higher standardwithin our in our own Safety Management System.

Dal-Tile’scommitment continues to remain strong in Muskogee with an operating budget of $85 million and another $3.5 million in capital investment. These investments will enable Muskogee to continue to lead the market in our segment.

We invite you to join our successful team. We have Machine Operators, paying from $17-$23/hr and Maintenance Positions from $25 -$36/hr depending on experience. Plus, additional shift differential for evening shifts of $.30 -$1.00 /hr. Apply through www.Careers.DalTile.com