2015 Muskogee Visitors' Guide

2015 Azalea Festival

Visitors’ Guide Things to do in Muskogee!

Page 2 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Cook-off offers fun, chance to help others Barbecue, chili event raises funds for children’s charities

If you go WHAT: Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off kickoff party.

WHERE: Muskogee Civic Center.

WHEN: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., April 10 WHO: Open to the public, 21 and over.

COST: Free admission.

••• WHAT: Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off. WHERE: Muskogee Civic Center.

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

COST: $10 for one taster kit, $15 for two.

By Harrison Grimwood Phoenix Staff Writer

Organizers of the annual Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off expect more than 100 cook teams to join the club’s effort in fundraising for children’s charities.

The cook-off is the club’s largest fundraiser, bringing in about $50,000 last year, said Robert Smith, chairman of the event.

Smith said he hopes this year’s cook-off will break the $70,000 mark.

“There is lots of great barbecue, lots of great chili and lots of money raised for children in need,” Smith said.

About 20,000 people attended and participated last year.

“It should be a great year,” club President Mark Maples said. “We have more corporate sponsors this year than ever before.”

The Muskogee Exchange Club raises money to help fund children’s organizations in Muskogee like Kids’ Space and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) For Children.

“Everything we do, all the money we raise, goes to help children,” Maples said.

In all, the club helps support about 12 different organizations around Muskogee.

The cook-off will be at

Phoenix file photo

About 20,000 people attended and participated in the Muskogee Exchange Club’s annual Chili and Barbecue Cook-off. The event raised about $50,000 for children’s charities last year.

the Muskogee Civic Center. It will start at about 11 a.m. Saturday, when the Azalea Festival Parade is wrapping up,

Smith said.

Cooking teams will compete for several awards, while the crowds benefit from the competition.

People can sample the teams’ efforts by purchasing a taster kit, $10 for one and $15 for two.

The cook teams con-

tribute their resources and money to provide food at the event, earning nothing but the clout that comes with cooking deli-

cious foods. All the money from the taster kits goes to the club.

While parents are busy with barbecue, the kids can enter the Kids’ Zone.

The Kids’ Zone is a place of inflated playgrounds with camels and ponies to ride.

The Express Clydesdales, ambassadors for Express Employment Professionals, will make their appearance at the Kids’ Zone, allowing ample opportunity for photos.

The cook-off has been going on for about three decades now, Smith said.

It has grown every year, and Smith said he hopes to see it continue that growth.

The fun starts with a kick-off party beginning at 7 p.m. Friday at the civic center. The party will star musical performances by Kinsey Sadler.

The concert is free for adults 21 years and older.

People interested in VIP tickets can contact the Exchange Club.

Reach Harrison Grimwood at (918) 6842926 or harrison .grimwood@muskogeephoenix.com.

Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 23

Many low-cost options for families

By Mark Hughes Phoenix Staff Writer

What can you do in Muskogee that won’t bust your budget? Just about anything from museums, parks, swimming pools to golf.

• • • • Three Rivers Museum is dedicated to preserving the multi-ethnic history and heritage of the American frontier.

Upcoming events includes a historic cemetery tour of Greenhill Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. June 6; Railroad Heritage Day, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 30; Muskogee's Historic Homes and Buildings Tour, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sept. 12 and The Haunted History Trolley Tours, 5:30 p.m. Oct. 16-17 and Oct. 23-24.

The museum is located at 220 Elgin St. and can be reached at (918) 6866624 or at threeriversmuseum@gmail.com. Prices are adults $3 and all school students $1.50. On Wednesdays, adults 55 and older can enter for $1.50.

• The Five Civilized Tribes Museum, 1101 Honor Heights Drive, which displays the art, culture and history of its namesake, will hold the following art shows: Art Under The Oaks Market, April 18; Smithsonian Hometown Sports Exhibit, June 12 and the Masters Art Show, Nov. 230. The museum is open every month except January. Prices are $3 for adults, $2 for seniors and $1.50 for students.

Children under 5 are free.

The museum’s website is www.fivetribes.org. They can be reached at (918) 683-3070 or 5tribesdirec-

tor@sbcglobal.net.

• • • For outdoor enthusiasts the Muskogee area offers fun and recreation at four area lakes.

• Fort Gibson Lake facilities include boat ramps, picnic areas, six Class A campgrounds for RV and tent camping, full electric hookups, drinking water, group shelters, restrooms, showers, swimming beaches, six marinas, enclosed fishing dock, and concession services.

Sequoyah Bay State Park features 71 semimodern recreational vehicle sites with water and electric hook-ups, two dump stations and 180 regular tent sites.

Sequoyah State Park visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, guided horseback trail rides and Western-themed activities as well as golf and disc golf, fishing and camping. Three Forks Nature Center frequently has activities for kids.

Sequoyah Lodge has recently undergone a renovation, and cabins also are available.

• Greenleaf State Park has 16 cabins with bathrooms, kitchens with fullsize appliances and heat and air. Greenleaf State Park Trail System offers three trails: Family Fun Trail, Deer Run Nature Trail and Greenleaf Lake Hiking Trail.

Family Fun Trail is 1 1/2 miles long and is paved. It is a beginnerlevel trail that is wheelchair-accessible Deer Run Nature Trail is a mile long and takes visitors into the hilly, wooded areas of the park.

Greenleaf Lake Hiking Trail is an 18-mile-long trail. It allows hiking

enthusiasts to go deep into the wooded areas on the east side of Greenleaf Lake.

• Lake Tenkiller facilities include boat ramps, picnic areas, recreational vehicle and tent campsites, enclosed fishing docks and a swimming pool, along with many other amenities. Tenkiller features almost 13,000 surface acres and 130 miles of shoreline. It has 10 marinas, 24 boat ramps, a scuba diving park and 20 camping parks.

• Lake Eufaula is Oklahoma’s largest lake and covers 105,500 surface acres with 600 miles Staff photo by Cathy Spaulding of shoreline. You can enjoy Remodeled rooms at Sequoyah Lodge feature two colors of paint to reflect the all that water by bringing red brick and flagstone outside. your boat to the many boat ramps available or you can rent houseboats, pontoon boats, ski boats, canoes or paddle boats.

Lake Eufaula State Park has about 34 full hookup RV sites, 65 RV sites with water and electric and 93 tent sites available.

Information: www.travelok.com/state_parks.

• • • Two public golf courses are available in Muskogee.

• Cobblestone Golf Course has 18 holes, 6,936 yards from longest tee with a par 72. You can find it at 700 E. Smith Ferry Road. Call (918) 682-4845 for tee times.

• Eagle Crest Golf Course, which offers 18 holes, is at the corner of 40th Street and Border Avenue. The course features 6,506 yards from the longest tee for a par of 72. Call (918) 682-0866 for tee times.

Reach Mark Hughes at (918) 684-2908 or mhughes @muskogeephoenix.com.

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Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

CALENDAR 682-2401.

August

RENTIESVILLE DUSK TIL

DAWN BLUES FESTIVAL, Aug. 28-30. Features multiple stages and dozens of topknotch performers.

Information: (918) 855-0978, dcminner@windstream.net,

www.dcminnerblues.com, 701 D.C. Minner St., Rentiesville.

RIVER RUMBA AND CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA PARTY, Aug. 28.

Enjoy an evening or afternoon

on the water at Three Forks Harbor. This annual event includes a River Rumba party on Friday night and the River Rumba Cardboard Boat Regatta on Saturday. Three Forks Harbor, 5201 Three Forks Road, Fort Gibson.

Information: Muskogee Parks & Recreation, (918) 684-6302.

October

HAUNTED HISTORY TROLLEY TOURS, Oct. 1617.

HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL

Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 3

‘American Bandstand’ sets stage for parade at the Castle of Muskogee, 3400 Fern Mountain Road, 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 30, Oct. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29.

Nine different Haunts in one location. From the scary to the non-scary. Enjoy the free Haunted Village. Dance under the big tent to your favorite monster music. Something for all ages. Information: (918) 681-3625 (800) 439-0658 www.okcastle.com

November

GARDEN OF LIGHTS,

Honor Heights Park, This will be the 25th year that thousands of twinkling lights fill the park for the holidays. The park opens Thanksgiving night and is open every night through Jan. 1. Other activities include hayrides through the park, and winter skating. Winter Skate hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Jan. 1. Winter Skate is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Private skate parties are available before regular hours.

To schedule a hayride or private skating party, call (918) 684-6302, ext. 1469 during the day.

CASTLE CHRISTMAS, The Castle of Muskogee, 3400 Fern Mountain Road, opens Thanksgiving night and is open every night through Jan. 1. The massive display has tens of thousands of lights and almost 2,000 inflatables for the Castle’s Christmas extravaganza. Information: (918) 6813625 (800) 439-0658 www.okcastle.com

December

GARDEN OF LIGHTS, Honor Heights Park, This will be the 25th year that thousands of twinkling lights fill the park for the holidays. The park opens Thanksgiving night and is open every night through Jan. 1. Other activities include hayrides through the park, and winter skating. Winter Skate hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Jan. 1. Winter Skate is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Private skate parties are available before regular hours.

To schedule a hayride or private skating party, call (918) 684-6302, ext. 1469 during the day.

CASTLE CHRISTMAS, The Castle of Muskogee, 3400 Fern Mountain Road, opens Thanksgiving night and is open every night through Jan. 1. The massive display has tens of thousands of lights and almost 2,000 inflatables for the Castle’s Christmas extravaganza. Information: (918) 6813625 (800) 439-0658 www.okcastle.com

Theme reflects nostalgia, Muskogee’s musical roots

By Harrison Grimwood Phoenix Staff Writer

“American Bandstand” is this year’s theme for the Azalea Festival Parade, playing to the strings of Muskogee residents.

From music to dance to fashion, “American Bandstand” represents a big slice of the American experience, according to the Muskogee Parks and Recreation Office parade invitation.

Joel Everett, the special projects manager for the Muskogee Parks and Recreation Office, said the theme was chosen for its broad range and for its nostalgia.

“We have a musical town, we always have a lot of musical parade entries,” Everett said.

The 2015 parade will start at 11 a.m., April 11 in downtown Muskogee on Okmulgee Avenue.

Everett said the parade usually is an hour or longer.

Clubs, churches, school groups, elected officials, bands, horse riders are just a small slice of the people that celebrate springtime during the Muskogee Azalea Festival.

“The parade and the festival is really what kind of defines us,” Everett said. “It defines who we are to ourselves and to everyone else.”

Phoenix file photo

The Muskogee Bedouin Shriners have the largest entry, including Hi-Bi the Clown, in the Azalea Festival Parade each year.

If you go WHAT: Azalea Festival Parade.

WHEN: 11 a.m., April 11.

WHERE: Downtown Muskogee on Okmulgee Avenue and Broadway.

At least a third of the town comes out for the annual festivities. The downtown area is pretty well packed with the parade and a chili and barbecue cook-off sponsored by the Muskogee Exchange Club.

The parade is the largest event the Parks and Recreation Office does every year.

“We’re lucky to have this, because most towns our size don’t have something like this,” Everett said. “Everyone’s hobbies, passions are brought into the open; all the special things in our community are brought out in one day.”

The Muskogee Bedouin Shriners have the largest parade entry each year, Everett said. Shriners from all across Northeast Oklahoma come out for

the parade.

“You can count on them to be there,” he said.

“Having them is like another little parade in the parade.”

The shriners show up in classic cars, in clown cars, on horses and much more, Everett said.

The festival is a sample of the community.

“Everyone gets a bit of ownership with the parade and the cook-off,” Everett said.

Reach Harrison GrimPhoenix file photo wood at (918) 684-2926 or harrison.grimwood@ The Azalea Festival Parade draws children of all ages. muskogeephoenix.com.

Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 21

CALENDAR Continued from Page 20 Door Prizes and Lunch Available from the UMW. Information: Sue Tardiff, (651) 470-1179, stardiff3822@hotmail.com or www.MAQG.net.

May

20th ANNUAL OKLAHOMA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Weekends: May 2-31; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Student Day, May 8; plus Memorial Day, May 25.

Costumed performers and artisans present renaissance music, magic, comedy, juggling, jousting, tomfoolery, arts, food, drink, and more!

Entertainment for all ages will be found at the 2015 Oklahoma Renaissance Festival. Information and online discount ticket purchase: http://okcastle.com.

TOLLING OF THE BOATS, 11 a.m. May 9, Muskogee War Memorial Park, 3500 Batfish Road. This event honors the 52 submarines that the United States lost during World War II. Submarine veterans will be honoring those sailors on eternal patrol by tolling the bell and announcing the name of the lost vessel. The event is free to the public, but donations are always appreciated. Information: (918) 6826294.

June

MUDSTOCK, June 5 and

6, Non-stop action packed mud volleyball. Family fun and music. Proceeds will benefit MCCOYS and WISH. Three Forks Harbor, 5201 Three Forks Road, Fort Gibson. Information: (918) 781-3609.

KID'S FISHING RODEO,

June 20, Three Forks Harbor, 5201 Three Forks Road, Fort Gibson.

SYMPHONY IN THE PARK, June 20, Honor Heights Park. Bring a blanket and a picnic basket to relax while enjoying this summer spectacle topped off by a fire-

works display. Information: (918) 684-6302.

July

PORT TO FORT ADVEN-

TURE RACE, July 11, the Port To Fort is a three-person team or solo sprint adventure race and a separate 5k trail run for those who only want to run. The adventure race will test your swimming, trail

running and canoeing/kayaking skills. Three Forks Harbor, 5201 Three Forks Road, Fort Gibson. Information: (918) (See CALENDAR, Page 22)

Page 20 — Sunday, March 29, 2015 Visitors’ Guide

Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 5

Bare Bones celebrates films

By Cathy Spaulding Phoenix Staff Writer

Phoenix file photo

James Tolbert with EASTAR offers up barbecue chicken during last year’s Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off

CALENDAR Continued from Page 19 Catering. Proceeds benefit Volunteers of America Oklahoma (RSVP of Muskogee). The mission is to respond to Oklahomans in need and create opportunities for people to experience the joy of serving others.

Volunteers of America Oklahoma reaches out to over 2,000 individuals every month providing affordable senior housing, residential support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and assisting individuals at risk of homelessness.

Information: www.voaok.org or www.facebook.com/VOAOKR hinestoneCowboy.

MUSKOGEE ART GUILD SPRING JUDGED ART SHOW, Entries must be delivered to Arrowhead Mall between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

April 9 for hanging.

Applications to enter the show can be found on www.muskogeeartguild.org. The Muskogee Art Guild Spring Judged Art Show Reception and awards presentation will be from 6 to 8:45 p.m. April 10 at the Arrowhead Mall. The Muskogee Art Guild Spring

Judged Art show will be April 11-18 at the Arrowhead Mall. Information: Marie Gassaway, (918) 682-3745.

NATIONAL SUBMARINE DAY, April 11, Muskogee War Memorial Park, 3500 Batfish Road. National Submarine Day takes place on April 11 to honor the anniversary of the USS Holland, the first modern commissioned United States submarine. For this event on April 11, they will have diesel boat veterans leading guided tours through the USS Batfish.

Information: (918) 682-6294.

PARTY IN THE PARK WINE, BEER & FOOD TASTING, 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. April 18, The Papilion at Honor Heights Park. Cost: $15 in advance/$20 at the door with souvenir glass. Information: www.muskogeerotary.org.

“QUILTED DREAMS,” 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 10-11, St. Paul United Methodist Church.

This is the Muskogee Area Quilters Guild 30th annual quilt show. Admission $5. There will be over 100 quilts, Vendors, Boutique with lots of gift ideas, Demonstrations, Raffle Quilt, (See CALENDAR, Page 21)

Bare Bones is not the most star-studded film festival around — but it might be the friendliest.

“People come here for the love and attention,” said ShIronbutterfly Ray, a festival founder and director. “That’s one thing they care for is the recognition. That’s part of the experience. Film festivals are not always celebrities.”

The 16th annual Bare Bones International Independent Film, Arts & Music Festival, April 1019, will feature at least 200 films.

“I haven’t counted them all, but we have close to 250,” Ray said. “We probably have 50 features, including feature documentaries and narrative films. The rest are shorts.

We have 30 music videos; music is in there, too. It’s a film and music festival.”

Bare Bones gives filmmakers an opportunity they otherwise might not have to show their films.

“This can be their start and end of their movie making until they go to the next festival,” Ray said.

Different types and genres of films will be shown on different days.

Brave enough for horror movies? Those will be shown April 10.

Christian or faithbased family movies can be seen April 12 and 17.

Animation and science fiction movie lovers should remember April 11.

April 18 is the night for romance and westerns, as well as mystery and crime dramas.

The films will be shown at sites all over town, Ray

said.

Three Rivers Museum, 220 Elgin Ave., will be site for most of the documentaries, she said.

Other venues include Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, 401 S. Third St.; Roxy Theatre, 220 W. Okmulgee Ave. and Studio Broadway, 213 W. Broadway.

Special events will accompany several showings.

For example, a pie tasting will be held after the showing of “Pie Lady of Pie Town,” 2 p.m. April 18 at Three Rivers Museum, Ray said. The short movie is about a Dallas businesswoman who ended up baking pies in a tiny New Mexico town with no traffic light or gas station.

And April 13 is Dog Day at Studio Broadway.

“You bring in your dog for a reception,” Ray said, adding that all movies shown at the reception will focus on dogs.

The Dog Bone Reception will be at 4 p.m. Canine classics for the day include “Doc: My Friend: Changing the Journey,” about dogs and their owners battling lymphoma. There also will be a music video, “My Dog.” “April 18 is Youth Day at the Roxy,” Ray said.

The Youth and Family Film Fest will run noon to 3:30 p.m. The festival will feature a variety of shorts and animated movies with a feature presentation at 2 p.m., “The Incredible Adventures of Jo Jo and His Annoying Sister, Avila.”

“This little boy and his sister have a car wreck in the woods and must find their way home,” Ray said. “It is the most adorable movie.”

If you go WHAT: 16th annual Bare Bones International Independent Film, Arts & Music Festival WHEN: April 10-19 WHERE: Various venues across Muskogee.

INFORMATION, TICKETS and SCHEDULE: www.barebonesfilmmusicvestival.org

There will be a special prize drawing for kids wearing pajamas and boots to the screening, she said.

Fans of science fiction and comics conventions have a special treat April 11 at Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.

“The Posthuman Project,” a sci-fi fantasy, will be shown shortly after 7:30 p.m. The feature focuses on five teens who are given superhuman powers.

At 9:15 p.m., costumed visitors are invited to a Cosplay Party at OMHOF. “This is for people who develop their own costumes. They may be super heroes, whatever,” Ray said.

Prices vary through the week, Ray said.

Visitors have free admission from 5 to 10 p.m. April 15 at Studio Broadway, she said.

Film lovers can get an All-Fest passport for $95.

General admission to single festival venues will be $7 on April 10-14 and $10 on April 16-18.

Tickets for the Awards Gala, 5 p.m. April 19 at Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, are $5.

Reach Cathy Spaulding at (918) 684-2928 or cspaulding@muskogee phoenix.com.

Submitted

The documentary “My Friend: Changing the Journey” has been nominated for Best Educational Documentary Feature at the 16th annual Bare Bones International Film and Music Festival. CLEAR (Canine Lymphoma Education Awareness and Research), has produced the documentary and features the stories of three special dogs fighting the disease as well as interviews with experts in the field of veterinary medicine and cancer research.

Page 6 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

AZALEA FESTIVAL EVENTS Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off. The annual Azalea Festival Parade will kick More than 100 teams are expected to provide lots off at 11 a.m. April 11. of chili and barbecue.

The theme for this The event runs from 11 year’s parade is a.m. to 5 p.m. April 11.

“American Bandstand.”

Taster kits may be Clowns, clubs, church- purchased for $10 for es, businesses, school one, or $15 for two. groups, elected officials, Proceeds benefit chilbands, horse riders all dren’s organizations in participate in the Muskogee such as Kids’ parade.

Space and Court The parade will begin Appointed Special on Okmulgee Avenue, Advocates (CASA) For west of the Muskogee Children.

Civic Center, and loops To get in the spirit around on Broadway. ahead of time, visitors can take in the kick-off at the Civic Center Chili and Barbecue party on April 10. The party Cook-off will star musical perAfter the Azalea formances by Kinsey Festival Parade, visitors Sadler. can head over to the area The concert is free for west of the Civic Center adults 21 years and for the Muskogee older.

Parade

CALENDAR Continued from Page 14

Quilt Show The annual Muskogee Quilters Guild Quilt Show will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 10 and 11 at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 2130 W. Okmulgee Ave. The cost is $5.

The colorful quilts on display are truly works of art. Throughout the day, veteran quilters will teach techniques and share their best tips with visitors.

The show will feature more than 100 entries in 12 categories. Ribbons will be awarded in each category.

One of the highlights of the show is the raffle. Be sure to buy a raffle ticket to win a quilt that will be given away on April 11.

(See AZALEA, Page 10)

Visitors’ Guide Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 19

Phoenix file photo

The Muskogee High School Band marches along Broadway during the Azalea Festival Parade last year.

corner of Seventh Street and Okmulgee Avenue. The show is held in conjunction with Muskogee’s Azalea Parade and Chili Cook-off. Entry fee for participants in the show is $15. Come see a great line up of classic cars and hot rods from far and wide and the chili cook-off is close by. Visitor admission is free. Information: www.muskogeecruizaders.co m or Rebecca, (918) 6823496.

16th annual Bare Bones International Independent Film, Arts & Music Festival, from April 10 through April 19.

The festival is the result of the hard work of Oscar and ShIron Ray. The festival is dedicated to screening feature motion picture projects with budgets less than $1 million.

The Bare Bones Film Festival experience has long been touted as the "Friendliest Film Festival" by the many filmmakers who return year after year.

Films are screened at several local venues, so check in at barebonesfilmmusicfestival.org for information.

Art Under The Oaks Competitive Show and Market, from April 6 to April 30, takes place at the Five Civilized Tribes Museum on Honor Heights Drive.

Each year, this cultural event brings people from across the United States to Muskogee to learn and appreciate the culture and traditions of the Five Tribes, who were removed from their homelands in the Southeastern United States to Indian Territory.

The Reception and Awards Presentation for the competition is from 2 to 4 p.m. April 12.

The market is April 18 and will include artists and crafters who will be displaying and selling their works. Plenty of food will be available, including traditional tribal fare.

Information: (918) 6831701.

10TH ANNUAL AZALEA POW-WOW, 2 p.m. April 18, Muskogee Civic Center. Hosts are Fife Indian United Methodist Church and MultiCultural Division/City of Muskogee. There will be Gourd Dancing from 2 to 5 p.m., a dinner break from 5 to

6 p.m., gourd dancing from 6 to 7 p.m. and Grand Entry at 7 p.m. There will be cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Adult Contests and Special Junior/Tiny Tots Category.

Contestants must participate in the grand entry. Admission is $5 at the door. Information: Stan Smith, (580) 491-1350 and Joyce Deere, (918) 2304734.

2015 GREAT DECISIONS, 7 p.m. Grant Foreman meeting room, Muskogee Public Library. The lineup: April 7 — Syria’s Refugee Crisis, Dr. Don Betz; April 14 — Privacy and the Digital Age, Dr. David Scott; April 21 — Russia and the Near Abroad, Dr. Don Betz; April 28 — Human Trafficking in the 21st Century, Mike Snowden. Great Decisions lectures are funded by the Muskogee Public Library’s Hultquist Trust. All programs in the series are free and open to all area residents and members of the general public.

32nd ANNUAL QUICHE AND SALAD LUNCHEON AND BAKE SALE, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 23, St. Joseph Parish Hall, 301 N. Virginia St. The cost is $7 which includes a variety of salads, quiche and a drink. Homemade baked goods will be available for purchase. Luncheon proceeds benefit the Church Sacristy and needs of the parish.

Information: Mary Upchurch, (918) 478-9520 or mfupchurch@yahoo.com.

“GERONIMO, LIFE ON THE RESERVATION,” 7:30 p.m. April 4, Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, 401 S. Third St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Starring Rudy Ramos. This is a story about the last 23 years of Geronimo’s life as a prisoner of war. Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of the show.

Information: (918) 687-0800 or OMHOF.com.

INAUGURAL RHINESTONE COWBOY MUSKOGEE — A TRIBUTE TO THE GLAMOROUS WEST, 5:30 p.m. April 7, Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. For reservations, contact Samantha Cook, (918) 683-1578 or scook@voaok.org. Individual tickets are $20 or $35 per couple. Dinner will be catered by Cowboys Bar-B-Q and (See CALENDAR, Page 20)

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Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Restaurants offer variety

Shoppers can find all kinds of local goodies

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 7

Muskogee is retail hub for East Central Oklahoma

By Cathy Spaulding Phoenix Staff Writer

Staff photos by Kandice Lawson

Hamlin’s El Toro, a Mexican restaurant, offers traditional dishes and is well-known for their white sauce dip.

Sakura Japanese Hibachi Grill and Sushi Bar waitress Jenny Weng brings out a fresh plate of sushi for waiting patrons.

No visit to Muskogee is complete without getting a little something.

A big something could be even better.

Visitors to Muskogee can bring home all sorts of things — clothing and cars, gifts and groceries, art and antiques, hardware and houses. They just need the right places to look.

Evelyn Hopkins knows where to look.

“It depends on what I’m shopping for,” Hopkins said while browsing at I’m Staff photo by Cathy Spaulding a Basket Case, one of a West Highland white terriers Archie, left, and Simon, sit ready to greet customers at Bella Mea’s, a clothing variety of stores along store on East Okmulgee Avenue.

York Street.

She said she goes to Wal-Mart and Lowe’s a lot.

“And I like this place,” she said. “It’s got a great selection of personal items.”

Muskogee has several “regions” where people can shop.

“Muskogee is a retail hub for East Central Oklahoma, and can offer variety not found in many other cities of the same size,” said Alisha Tanksley, vice president of the Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Shoppers can conveniently find a variety of specialty boutiques and antique stores located in the downtown area, within a few blocks of Arrowhead Mall.

Both Main Street and Broadway offer the ability to park and walk while shopping. For those retailers with national recognition, both Arrowhead Mall in downtown and Three (See SHOPPERS, 8)

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Visitors’ Guide

Shoppers Continued from Page 7

Rivers Plaza on Shawnee Bypass offer a wide selection.”

Some parts of town have their own specialties.

Looking for a car? Drive along North Main Street and West Shawnee Bypass.

How about a manufactured home? North 32nd Street is your best bet.

“Other retailers are scattered throughout the city, and in the downtown area as well,” Tanksley said.

A leisurely stroll through downtown offers all sorts of opportunities — from guitars at Square Deal Music, 212 W. Broadway, to grandfather clocks at Rickett’s Piano Sales, 407 W. Broadway.

If the azaleas inspire you to get married at Honor Heights Park, you can find gowns and tuxedos at Crowning Moments, 221 W. Broadway.

Rustic Elegance, 107 W. Broadway, now offers women’s clothing from Pinion Creek Trading Co. along with its unique gifts.

Turn the corner at Main Street and find cast iron Dutch ovens, farm and ranch supplies and nails at Hoopes Hardware, 108 S. Main St., a Muskogee fixture since 1933.

Even the chamber office, 310 W. Broadway, has a selection of “Real Okie” T-shirts, hoodies and other doo-dads.

• • • Drive along York Street for even more selections.

Find some mowers and other lawn supplies at Marvin’s Mowers and Outdoor, 2000 N. York St. Find fudge and other gifts at Economy Pharmacy, 412 N. York St. York also has several places to grab some groceries — Save-ALot, 2105 N. York St.;

Staff photo by Cathy Spaulding

For a healthy break, visitors can grab fresh produce at Arnold Fruit Co. on Shawnee Bypass.

Marvin’s IGA, 615 N. York St., and two Homeland supermarkets at 2410 Chandler Road and 1300 S. York St. “It’s a very busy street,” said Connie Weese, owner of I’m a Basket Case, 950 N. York St.

• • • Shawnee Bypass offers a variety of home furnishing options, as well as major shopping centers.

Start your furniture store browsing at Allen Furniture, 2332 W. Shawnee Bypass. Further east, find Furniture Factory Outlet, 1551 W. Shawnee Bypass, and Cooper’s Furniture, 1101 W. Shawnee Bypass. Bob Loftis Furniture is at 2501 E. Shawnee Bypass, right across from Bacone College.

While you’re out browsing for furniture, grab

some fresh fruit, veggies and nuts at Arnold Fruit Co., 1412 W. Shawnee Bypass.

• • • Of course, you don’t have to go to a certain “region” to shop. Some stores found their own special pockets around town. Shoppers can find women’s fine clothing — and meet a pair of friendly pups, Archie and Simon — at Bella Mea’s, 1601 E. Okmulgee Ave. “A lot of people who work in downtown come here,” said Bella Mea’s owner, Billie Flinn.

Cagle’s Flowers & Gifts, 3302 E. Harris Road, offers full floral services and other nice things in far north Muskogee.

Reach Cathy Spaulding at (918) 684-2928 or cspaulding@muskogee phoenix.com.

Page 16 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Basic fare to fine dining offered at area eateries

By Kandice Lawson Phoenix Staff Writer

Between the hustle and bustle of this year’s festivities of the Azalea Festival, your tummy may begin to roar.

Throughout the city, Muskogee has a number of local food favorites for everyone to enjoy.

Corderoe Johnson, 28, of Boynton says his personal favorite place to eat is Anna’s Coffee Cup. “They have chicken fried steak that’s pretty good,” Johnson said. “They Staff photo by Kandice Lawson have okra, and their Bret Smith digs in to his grilled chicken potato from Mahylon’s Bar-B-Q restau- breakfast is legit, too, but rant. Mahylon’s is just one of several eating establishments for visitors to sample. I suggest to everyone to

try the chicken fried steak. I prefer mine with mashed potatoes or fries.”

Anna’s Coffee Cup’s menu includes various classic breakfast dishes such as French toast, eggs, bacon and pancakes.

Another popular restaurant among residents is Zollie’s. In business since 1987, the restaurant has everything from corn dogs to stuffed pork chops.

Julian Miller, 27, of Muskogee described why he loves to grab a quick bite from Zollie’s.

“I like the grilled vegetables and ribs,” Miller said. “I like the grilled chicken salad too. I hon-

estly like everything. You have to check it out.”

New to the area is Muskogee’s first and only hibachi grill and sushi bar, Sakura Japanese Hibachi Grill and Sushi Bar gives restaurant patrons a show, cooking food right before their eyes.

Kenny Greer, opened Mahylon’s Bar-B-Q in 1995 and says the restaurant may be known for barbecue but has plenty of other entrees to offer patrons.

“Mahylon’s is synonymous with barbecue,” Greer said. “Our motto is ‘our specialty is quality.’

It’s been around for so long, and we’re centered around barbecue, but we have steaks, grilled chicken, light sides such as wraps and chicken salad.

We have a wide variety.

We still sell quite a bit of barbecue but not like it was when we first opened because we’ve added so many things to the menu.”

Reach Kandice Lawson at (918) 684-2914 or kandice.lawson@muskogeephoenix.com.

Page 10 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Sports

AZALEA FESTIVAL EVENTS Continued from Page 6

Bare Bones Film Festival Muskogee’s 16th annual Bare Bones International Independent Film, Arts & Music Festival runs from April 10 through April 19.

The festival is the result of the hard work of Oscar and ShIron Ray. The festival is dedicated to screening feature motion picture projects with budgets less than $1 million.

The Bare Bones Film Festival experience has long been touted as the “Friendliest Film Festival” by the many filmmakers who return year after year.

Films are screened at several local venues, so check in at barebonesfilmmusicfestival.org for infor-

Page 15 — Sunday, March 29, 2015 Visitors’ Guide

mation.

Continued from Page 14

Club Road. Their phone number is (918) 683-0291.

• Eagle Crest Golf Course at 4301 Border Avenue. Their phone number is (918) 682-0866.

• Cobblestone Golf Club at 700 E. Smith Ferry Road. Their phone number is (918) 682-4845.

Car Show The 8th annual Cruizaders Car, Truck & Cycle Show will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 11 in front of the parking lot directly across the street from First Baptist Church, 111 S. Seventh St. Registration is from 8 to 11 a.m., with awards at 2:30 p.m. Entry fee is $15.

Door prizes given by many area merchants. A 50/50 pot is available for all participants. Awards presented at the show include: Top 25, Best in Show Car-Truck-Cycle, Best Engine, Best Interior, and Best OldSkool Bike.

Part of the proceeds from the show go to bene(See AZALEA, Page 11)

• • •

Phoenix file photo

Runners take off during the 2014 Muskogee Run. The run is one of several Azalea Festival events.

There are ample opportunities in Muskogee for bicycling, running and jogging along the multi-use trails scattered throughout the city.

Bicycle riders can find Muskogee residents to ride with through the Muskogee Area Cycling facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups /muskogeeareacycling.

Find information about the trails from the city’s

Parks and Recreation Department, (918) 6846302.

• • • Robison Park is the home of the city’s new skate park. The parks are open during daylight hours and free to the public.

The new skate park is at Robison Park. The park is located at Augusta and Gulick streets.

• • • For body builders, power lifters and swimmers, there is the Muskogee Swim and Fitness Center on 566 N. Sixth St. It is open from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays.

There are a variety of fitness classes, including Zumba, Pilates and tai chi. Information: (918) 684-6304.

Page 14 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

By Harrison Grimwood Phoenix Staff Writer

Muskogee is a place of abundant sports.

Muskogee County and the city of Muskogee have bountiful places for fishing, hiking, playing golf, ball and other sports.

The crowning jewel of sports in Muskogee is the Love-Hatbox Sports Complex.

The site is a 60-acre historic airport now serving players of all types with 10 baseball fields, eight softball fields, two football fields, 13 soccer fields and a three-mile multi-use

trail.

“The complex is for anybody,” said Parks and Recreation Director Mark Wilkerson. “If you have a child that wants to play football or baseball, the complex can connect you to the right sports league.”

Neil Hayes, general manager of the complex, said it should be a real happening place from spring time until winter.

Hayes said they will have something going on every weekend and three or four nights during the week.

Wilkerson said the water park and skate park at Love-Hatbox are two of the most popular destinations. The water park, River Country, had more than 70,000 admissions last season.

“It is pretty unique to a

community our size to have a facility like this,” he said.

Wilkerson also said there is a lot of buzz around a new skate park at Robison Park.

“All custom concrete, it’s the real deal,” Wilkerson said. “Skaters are coming from out of town just to try this new park.”

If you’d like to toss the pigskin, play ball, cast a line or skate the pipes, here are a few places you can check out: • The Love-Hatbox Sports Complex on 34th and Arline streets will serve just about any sports need with baseball and softball fields, football fields, soccer fields, a three mile multi-use trail, a splash pad and a skate park.

Information: www.cityofmuskogee.com/

Continued from Page 10

and ends in Honor Heights Park. fit First Baptist Church's Event day registration Free Medical Clinic. Tbegins at 6:30 a.m. April shirts also available for 11 at the north shelter by purchase. the pond and splash pad.

Information: (918) 682- Runs begin at 8 a.m.

3496 or (918) 869-6980, by Information: https://runemail to reception@fbcsignup.com/Race/OK/Mus muskogee.org or at kogee/TheMuskogeeRun www.muskogeecruizaders.com/.

Love-Hatbox or call (918) 684-6302.

• • • For folks who love racing, Outlaw Motor Speedway has the track where rubber meets dirt.

There are races each weekend at the Outlaw Motor Speedway, located just off U.S. 69 south of Muskogee at 8100 Wainwright Road.

Admission for adults is $10 and for kids it is $5.

Information: www.outlawmotorspeedway.net/ or call (918) 625-6200.

Pow-wow

Muskogee Run

• • • If hitting a golf ball through 18 holes is your flavor, there are several golf courses in Muskogee: • Muskogee Country Club on 2400 N. Country (See SPORTS, 15)

Phoenix file photo

Muskogee has a lot to offer the sports enthusiast, including a new skateboard park at Robison Park.

CALENDAR April

Annual Azalea Festival Parade will kick off at 11 a.m.

April 11.

The theme for this year’s parade is “American Bandstand.”

Clowns, clubs, churches, businesses, school groups, elected officials, bands, horse riders all participate in the parade.

The parade will begin on Okmulgee Avenue, west of the Civic Center, and loops around on Broadway.

Chili and Barbecue Cookoff, April 11. After the Azalea Festival Parade, visitors can head over to the area west of the Civic Center for the Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off. More than 100 teams are expected to provide lots of chili and barbecue. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 11.

Taster kits may be purchased for $10 for one, or $15 for two.

Proceeds benefit children’s organizations in Muskogee like Kids’ Space and Court Appointed Special Advocates

(CASA) For Children.

To get in the spirit ahead of time, visitors can take in the kick-off party at the Civic Center on April 10. The party will star musical performances

by Kinsey Sadler.

The concert is free for adults 21 years and older. annual Muskogee Quilters Guild Quilt Show, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 10 and 11 at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 2130 W. Okmulgee Ave. The cost is $5.

The colorful quilts on display are truly works of art.

Throughout the day, veteran quilters will teach techniques and share their best tips with visitors.

The show will feature more than 100 entries in 12 categories. Ribbons will be awarded in each category.

One of the highlights of the show is the raffle. Be sure to buy a raffle ticket to win a quilt that will be given away on April 11.

EIGHTH ANNUAL CAR,TRUCK AND CYCLE SHOW, 8 a.m. April 11, on the (See CALENDAR, Page 19)

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 11

AZALEA FESTIVAL EVENTS

Plenty to do for sports enthusiasts Love-Hatbox Field crown jewel of Muskogee sports offerings

Visitors’ Guide

Phoenix file photo

Carl Cox, a member of the CruiZaders Car Club, shines up his 1956 Ford Victoria in preparation for last year’s Car, Truck and Cycle Show hosted by the club.

The Muskogee Run is a 15k, 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run that begins and ends in Honor Heights Park.

The 15k and 5k road runs go west and north of the park into rolling paved scenic spring country roads.

The 1 mile fun run is a course that uses the first 1/2 mile of the 5k and 15k course. It is gently rolling rural asphalt that begins

The 10th annual Azalea Pow-wow will be at 2 p.m.

April 18 at the Muskogee Civic Center. The hosts are Fife Indian United Methodist Church and Multi-Cultural Division/City of Muskogee.

There will be gourd dancing from 2 to 5 p.m., a dinner break from 5 to 6 p.m., gourd dancing from 6 to 7 p.m. and Grand Entry at 7 p.m. There will be cash prizes for first-,

second-, and third-place adult contests and Special Junior/Tiny Tots category.

Contestants must participate in the grand entry.

Admission is $5 at the door. Information: Stan Smith, (580) 491-1350 and Joyce Deere, (918) 2304734.

Art Under the Oaks Art Under The Oaks Competitive Show and Market takes place at the Five Civilized Tribes Museum on Honor Heights Drive.

The competitive show runs from April 6 to April 30.

Each year, this cultural event brings people from across the United States to Muskogee to learn and appreciate the culture and traditions of the Five

Tribes, who were removed from their homelands in the Southeastern United States to Indian Territory.

The Reception and Awards Presentation for the competition is from 2 to 4 p.m. April 12.

The market is April 18 and will include artists and crafters who will be displaying and selling their works. Plenty of food will be available, including traditional tribal fare.

Information: (918) 6831701.

Party in the Park Party in the Park will be from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m.

April 18 at the Papilion at Honor Heights Park.

Rotary Club of Muskogee’s Party in the Park wine and food tasting event uses the proceeds of the event to sup-

port international projects. The projects focus on improving life and health of disadvantaged children and families in developing countries.

Advance tickets are $15, and are $20 at the door. Get your tickets and information at: www.muskogeerotary.org or a Muskogee Rotarian.

Touch-A-Truck Touch-A-Truck will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 25 at Davis Field. Kids of all ages are invited to see, touch, honk, play, and explore vehicles of all kinds. Lowe’s will be hosting a “build” clinic, and RT&T Cycles will be demonstrating their offroad vehicles. Tweedle Twisters will be at the event to dazzle you with their balloon creations.

Every child who attends will receive a free book.

Tickets are $2 per person.

Renaissance Festival 20th annual Oklahoma Renaissance Festival will take place at The Castle of Muskogee on Fern Mountain Road, west of U.S. 69. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The festival is on weekends May 2-31; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Student Day, May 8; plus Memorial Day, May 25. Costumed performers and artisans present renaissance music, magic, comedy, juggling, jousting, tomfoolery, arts, food, drink, and more.

Entertainment for all ages. Information and online discount ticket purchase: http://okcastle.com.

Page 12 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Family fun Parks, trails highlight family activities

By Mark Hughes Phoenix Staff Writer

There is no lack of family outdoor activities in Muskogee with six trails, eight parks, a swimming pool and water park.

The longest trail is the Centennial Trail, located in the southwest part of the city, at 3.1 miles.

Stem Beach Trail, located at Honor Heights Park, is a 1.2-mile concrete trail.

While at Honor Heights Park, visit the GeorgiaPacific Butterfly House from April 1 through Oct. 12. You can see the butterflies 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for children, students, seniors and military.

The remaining trails are: • Civitan Trail, 3301 Gibson St., is an eighttenths of a mile concrete athletic trail.

• The Bresser Trail at Honor Heights Park on Honor Heights Drive.

• The Audubon Trail is a half-mile nature trail located at Honor Heights Park.

• Spaulding Park, at the corner of East Okmulgee Avenue and East Side Boulevard, has a one-third mile asphalt general activity trail.

Swimming is popular during the summer and

File photo

Muskogee offers multiple opportunities for family fun, including Honor Heights Park, which features a new playground.

can be found at River Country Family Water Park at 3600 Arline St., in the Love-Hatbox Sports Complex. The park features water slides, river rides and beaches and opens May 23 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Adult admission prices are $7, children 3 to 15 years old are $6, and children under 2 are free.

After 4 p.m. Monday through Friday adult prices are $4; children 3 to 15, $3; and children under 2 are free. Season passes are $60 for adults and $45 for children 3 to 15. The water park office can be reached at (918) 684-6399.

Spaulding Park’s pool opens Memorial Day with daily hours from 1 to 7 p.m. Admission is 50 cents for ages 12 and under; 75 cents for 13 to 17 years and $1.25 for 18 and older.

Information: (918) 6846392.

Sixteen parks dot Muskogee with amenities ranging from restrooms, picnic areas, splash pads, basketball courts and soccer fields, disc golf, baseball fields, activity trails and fishing lakes, among others.

Park names and locations are: • Beckman Park at North 16th Street and West Broadway.

• Bill Pool Park at the corner of Gawf Lane and Foltz Lane.

• Civitan Park at 3301 Gibson St. • Douglas-Maxey Park, at South Sixth Street and West Southside Boulevard.

• Elliott Park at Altamont Street and Tower Hill Boulevard.

• Grandview Park, 315 Peak Blvd.

• Gulick Park, Seventh and Elgin streets.

• King Park at Gibson Street and East Side Boulevard.

• Optimist Park at South ‘F’ and Independence streets.

• Palmer Park at the corner of Honor Heights Drive and Denison Street.

• Robison Park, at the corner of Augusta and Gulick streets.

• Rooney Park at 2300 Military Blvd.

• Rotary Park at South 24th and Elgin streets.

• Spaulding Park at East Okmulgee Avenue and Eastside Boulevard.

• Honor Heights Park, “the crown jewel in Muskogee’s park system,” is a 132-acre park that has many picnic areas, two picnic shelters, a pavilion, gazeboes, a splash pad, public restrooms, tennis courts, and a sand volleyball court.

Reach Mark Hughes at (918) 684-2908 or mhughes@muskogeephoenix.com.

Page 12 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Family fun Parks, trails highlight family activities

By Mark Hughes Phoenix Staff Writer

There is no lack of family outdoor activities in Muskogee with six trails, eight parks, a swimming pool and water park.

The longest trail is the Centennial Trail, located in the southwest part of the city, at 3.1 miles.

Stem Beach Trail, located at Honor Heights Park, is a 1.2-mile concrete trail.

While at Honor Heights Park, visit the GeorgiaPacific Butterfly House from April 1 through Oct. 12. You can see the butterflies 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for children, students, seniors and military.

The remaining trails are: • Civitan Trail, 3301 Gibson St., is an eighttenths of a mile concrete athletic trail.

• The Bresser Trail at Honor Heights Park on Honor Heights Drive.

• The Audubon Trail is a half-mile nature trail located at Honor Heights Park.

• Spaulding Park, at the corner of East Okmulgee Avenue and East Side Boulevard, has a one-third mile asphalt general activity trail.

Swimming is popular during the summer and

File photo

Muskogee offers multiple opportunities for family fun, including Honor Heights Park, which features a new playground.

can be found at River Country Family Water Park at 3600 Arline St., in the Love-Hatbox Sports Complex. The park features water slides, river rides and beaches and opens May 23 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Adult admission prices are $7, children 3 to 15 years old are $6, and children under 2 are free.

After 4 p.m. Monday through Friday adult prices are $4; children 3 to 15, $3; and children under 2 are free. Season passes are $60 for adults and $45 for children 3 to 15. The water park office can be reached at (918) 684-6399.

Spaulding Park’s pool opens Memorial Day with daily hours from 1 to 7 p.m. Admission is 50 cents for ages 12 and under; 75 cents for 13 to 17 years and $1.25 for 18 and older.

Information: (918) 6846392.

Sixteen parks dot Muskogee with amenities ranging from restrooms, picnic areas, splash pads, basketball courts and soccer fields, disc golf, baseball fields, activity trails and fishing lakes, among others.

Park names and locations are: • Beckman Park at North 16th Street and West Broadway.

• Bill Pool Park at the corner of Gawf Lane and Foltz Lane.

• Civitan Park at 3301 Gibson St. • Douglas-Maxey Park, at South Sixth Street and West Southside Boulevard.

• Elliott Park at Altamont Street and Tower Hill Boulevard.

• Grandview Park, 315 Peak Blvd.

• Gulick Park, Seventh and Elgin streets.

• King Park at Gibson Street and East Side Boulevard.

• Optimist Park at South ‘F’ and Independence streets.

• Palmer Park at the corner of Honor Heights Drive and Denison Street.

• Robison Park, at the corner of Augusta and Gulick streets.

• Rooney Park at 2300 Military Blvd.

• Rotary Park at South 24th and Elgin streets.

• Spaulding Park at East Okmulgee Avenue and Eastside Boulevard.

• Honor Heights Park, “the crown jewel in Muskogee’s park system,” is a 132-acre park that has many picnic areas, two picnic shelters, a pavilion, gazeboes, a splash pad, public restrooms, tennis courts, and a sand volleyball court.

Reach Mark Hughes at (918) 684-2908 or mhughes@muskogeephoenix.com.

Page 14 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

By Harrison Grimwood Phoenix Staff Writer

Muskogee is a place of abundant sports.

Muskogee County and the city of Muskogee have bountiful places for fishing, hiking, playing golf, ball and other sports.

The crowning jewel of sports in Muskogee is the Love-Hatbox Sports Complex.

The site is a 60-acre historic airport now serving players of all types with 10 baseball fields, eight softball fields, two football fields, 13 soccer fields and a three-mile multi-use

trail.

“The complex is for anybody,” said Parks and Recreation Director Mark Wilkerson. “If you have a child that wants to play football or baseball, the complex can connect you to the right sports league.”

Neil Hayes, general manager of the complex, said it should be a real happening place from spring time until winter.

Hayes said they will have something going on every weekend and three or four nights during the week.

Wilkerson said the water park and skate park at Love-Hatbox are two of the most popular destinations. The water park, River Country, had more than 70,000 admissions last season.

“It is pretty unique to a

community our size to have a facility like this,” he said.

Wilkerson also said there is a lot of buzz around a new skate park at Robison Park.

“All custom concrete, it’s the real deal,” Wilkerson said. “Skaters are coming from out of town just to try this new park.”

If you’d like to toss the pigskin, play ball, cast a line or skate the pipes, here are a few places you can check out: • The Love-Hatbox Sports Complex on 34th and Arline streets will serve just about any sports need with baseball and softball fields, football fields, soccer fields, a three mile multi-use trail, a splash pad and a skate park.

Information: www.cityofmuskogee.com/

Continued from Page 10

and ends in Honor Heights Park. fit First Baptist Church's Event day registration Free Medical Clinic. Tbegins at 6:30 a.m. April shirts also available for 11 at the north shelter by purchase. the pond and splash pad.

Information: (918) 682- Runs begin at 8 a.m.

3496 or (918) 869-6980, by Information: https://runemail to reception@fbcsignup.com/Race/OK/Mus muskogee.org or at kogee/TheMuskogeeRun www.muskogeecruizaders.com/.

Love-Hatbox or call (918) 684-6302.

• • • For folks who love racing, Outlaw Motor Speedway has the track where rubber meets dirt.

There are races each weekend at the Outlaw Motor Speedway, located just off U.S. 69 south of Muskogee at 8100 Wainwright Road.

Admission for adults is $10 and for kids it is $5.

Information: www.outlawmotorspeedway.net/ or call (918) 625-6200.

Pow-wow

Muskogee Run

• • • If hitting a golf ball through 18 holes is your flavor, there are several golf courses in Muskogee: • Muskogee Country Club on 2400 N. Country (See SPORTS, 15)

Phoenix file photo

Muskogee has a lot to offer the sports enthusiast, including a new skateboard park at Robison Park.

CALENDAR April

Annual Azalea Festival Parade will kick off at 11 a.m.

April 11.

The theme for this year’s parade is “American Bandstand.”

Clowns, clubs, churches, businesses, school groups, elected officials, bands, horse riders all participate in the parade.

The parade will begin on Okmulgee Avenue, west of the Civic Center, and loops around on Broadway.

Chili and Barbecue Cookoff, April 11. After the Azalea Festival Parade, visitors can head over to the area west of the Civic Center for the Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off. More than 100 teams are expected to provide lots of chili and barbecue. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 11.

Taster kits may be purchased for $10 for one, or $15 for two.

Proceeds benefit children’s organizations in Muskogee like Kids’ Space and Court Appointed Special Advocates

(CASA) For Children.

To get in the spirit ahead of time, visitors can take in the kick-off party at the Civic Center on April 10. The party will star musical performances

by Kinsey Sadler.

The concert is free for adults 21 years and older. annual Muskogee Quilters Guild Quilt Show, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 10 and 11 at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 2130 W. Okmulgee Ave. The cost is $5.

The colorful quilts on display are truly works of art.

Throughout the day, veteran quilters will teach techniques and share their best tips with visitors.

The show will feature more than 100 entries in 12 categories. Ribbons will be awarded in each category.

One of the highlights of the show is the raffle. Be sure to buy a raffle ticket to win a quilt that will be given away on April 11.

EIGHTH ANNUAL CAR,TRUCK AND CYCLE SHOW, 8 a.m. April 11, on the (See CALENDAR, Page 19)

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 11

AZALEA FESTIVAL EVENTS

Plenty to do for sports enthusiasts Love-Hatbox Field crown jewel of Muskogee sports offerings

Visitors’ Guide

Phoenix file photo

Carl Cox, a member of the CruiZaders Car Club, shines up his 1956 Ford Victoria in preparation for last year’s Car, Truck and Cycle Show hosted by the club.

The Muskogee Run is a 15k, 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run that begins and ends in Honor Heights Park.

The 15k and 5k road runs go west and north of the park into rolling paved scenic spring country roads.

The 1 mile fun run is a course that uses the first 1/2 mile of the 5k and 15k course. It is gently rolling rural asphalt that begins

The 10th annual Azalea Pow-wow will be at 2 p.m.

April 18 at the Muskogee Civic Center. The hosts are Fife Indian United Methodist Church and Multi-Cultural Division/City of Muskogee.

There will be gourd dancing from 2 to 5 p.m., a dinner break from 5 to 6 p.m., gourd dancing from 6 to 7 p.m. and Grand Entry at 7 p.m. There will be cash prizes for first-,

second-, and third-place adult contests and Special Junior/Tiny Tots category.

Contestants must participate in the grand entry.

Admission is $5 at the door. Information: Stan Smith, (580) 491-1350 and Joyce Deere, (918) 2304734.

Art Under the Oaks Art Under The Oaks Competitive Show and Market takes place at the Five Civilized Tribes Museum on Honor Heights Drive.

The competitive show runs from April 6 to April 30.

Each year, this cultural event brings people from across the United States to Muskogee to learn and appreciate the culture and traditions of the Five

Tribes, who were removed from their homelands in the Southeastern United States to Indian Territory.

The Reception and Awards Presentation for the competition is from 2 to 4 p.m. April 12.

The market is April 18 and will include artists and crafters who will be displaying and selling their works. Plenty of food will be available, including traditional tribal fare.

Information: (918) 6831701.

Party in the Park Party in the Park will be from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m.

April 18 at the Papilion at Honor Heights Park.

Rotary Club of Muskogee’s Party in the Park wine and food tasting event uses the proceeds of the event to sup-

port international projects. The projects focus on improving life and health of disadvantaged children and families in developing countries.

Advance tickets are $15, and are $20 at the door. Get your tickets and information at: www.muskogeerotary.org or a Muskogee Rotarian.

Touch-A-Truck Touch-A-Truck will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 25 at Davis Field. Kids of all ages are invited to see, touch, honk, play, and explore vehicles of all kinds. Lowe’s will be hosting a “build” clinic, and RT&T Cycles will be demonstrating their offroad vehicles. Tweedle Twisters will be at the event to dazzle you with their balloon creations.

Every child who attends will receive a free book.

Tickets are $2 per person.

Renaissance Festival 20th annual Oklahoma Renaissance Festival will take place at The Castle of Muskogee on Fern Mountain Road, west of U.S. 69. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The festival is on weekends May 2-31; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Student Day, May 8; plus Memorial Day, May 25. Costumed performers and artisans present renaissance music, magic, comedy, juggling, jousting, tomfoolery, arts, food, drink, and more.

Entertainment for all ages. Information and online discount ticket purchase: http://okcastle.com.

Page 10 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Sports

AZALEA FESTIVAL EVENTS Continued from Page 6

Bare Bones Film Festival Muskogee’s 16th annual Bare Bones International Independent Film, Arts & Music Festival runs from April 10 through April 19.

The festival is the result of the hard work of Oscar and ShIron Ray. The festival is dedicated to screening feature motion picture projects with budgets less than $1 million.

The Bare Bones Film Festival experience has long been touted as the “Friendliest Film Festival” by the many filmmakers who return year after year.

Films are screened at several local venues, so check in at barebonesfilmmusicfestival.org for infor-

Page 15 — Sunday, March 29, 2015 Visitors’ Guide

mation.

Continued from Page 14

Club Road. Their phone number is (918) 683-0291.

• Eagle Crest Golf Course at 4301 Border Avenue. Their phone number is (918) 682-0866.

• Cobblestone Golf Club at 700 E. Smith Ferry Road. Their phone number is (918) 682-4845.

Car Show The 8th annual Cruizaders Car, Truck & Cycle Show will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 11 in front of the parking lot directly across the street from First Baptist Church, 111 S. Seventh St. Registration is from 8 to 11 a.m., with awards at 2:30 p.m. Entry fee is $15.

Door prizes given by many area merchants. A 50/50 pot is available for all participants. Awards presented at the show include: Top 25, Best in Show Car-Truck-Cycle, Best Engine, Best Interior, and Best OldSkool Bike.

Part of the proceeds from the show go to bene(See AZALEA, Page 11)

• • •

Phoenix file photo

Runners take off during the 2014 Muskogee Run. The run is one of several Azalea Festival events.

There are ample opportunities in Muskogee for bicycling, running and jogging along the multi-use trails scattered throughout the city.

Bicycle riders can find Muskogee residents to ride with through the Muskogee Area Cycling facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups /muskogeeareacycling.

Find information about the trails from the city’s

Parks and Recreation Department, (918) 6846302.

• • • Robison Park is the home of the city’s new skate park. The parks are open during daylight hours and free to the public.

The new skate park is at Robison Park. The park is located at Augusta and Gulick streets.

• • • For body builders, power lifters and swimmers, there is the Muskogee Swim and Fitness Center on 566 N. Sixth St. It is open from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays.

There are a variety of fitness classes, including Zumba, Pilates and tai chi. Information: (918) 684-6304.

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Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Basic fare to fine dining offered at area eateries

By Kandice Lawson Phoenix Staff Writer

Between the hustle and bustle of this year’s festivities of the Azalea Festival, your tummy may begin to roar.

Throughout the city, Muskogee has a number of local food favorites for everyone to enjoy.

Corderoe Johnson, 28, of Boynton says his personal favorite place to eat is Anna’s Coffee Cup. “They have chicken fried steak that’s pretty good,” Johnson said. “They Staff photo by Kandice Lawson have okra, and their Bret Smith digs in to his grilled chicken potato from Mahylon’s Bar-B-Q restau- breakfast is legit, too, but rant. Mahylon’s is just one of several eating establishments for visitors to sample. I suggest to everyone to

try the chicken fried steak. I prefer mine with mashed potatoes or fries.”

Anna’s Coffee Cup’s menu includes various classic breakfast dishes such as French toast, eggs, bacon and pancakes.

Another popular restaurant among residents is Zollie’s. In business since 1987, the restaurant has everything from corn dogs to stuffed pork chops.

Julian Miller, 27, of Muskogee described why he loves to grab a quick bite from Zollie’s.

“I like the grilled vegetables and ribs,” Miller said. “I like the grilled chicken salad too. I hon-

estly like everything. You have to check it out.”

New to the area is Muskogee’s first and only hibachi grill and sushi bar, Sakura Japanese Hibachi Grill and Sushi Bar gives restaurant patrons a show, cooking food right before their eyes.

Kenny Greer, opened Mahylon’s Bar-B-Q in 1995 and says the restaurant may be known for barbecue but has plenty of other entrees to offer patrons.

“Mahylon’s is synonymous with barbecue,” Greer said. “Our motto is ‘our specialty is quality.’

It’s been around for so long, and we’re centered around barbecue, but we have steaks, grilled chicken, light sides such as wraps and chicken salad.

We have a wide variety.

We still sell quite a bit of barbecue but not like it was when we first opened because we’ve added so many things to the menu.”

Reach Kandice Lawson at (918) 684-2914 or kandice.lawson@muskogeephoenix.com.

Page 8 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Shoppers Continued from Page 7

Rivers Plaza on Shawnee Bypass offer a wide selection.”

Some parts of town have their own specialties.

Looking for a car? Drive along North Main Street and West Shawnee Bypass.

How about a manufactured home? North 32nd Street is your best bet.

“Other retailers are scattered throughout the city, and in the downtown area as well,” Tanksley said.

A leisurely stroll through downtown offers all sorts of opportunities — from guitars at Square Deal Music, 212 W. Broadway, to grandfather clocks at Rickett’s Piano Sales, 407 W. Broadway.

If the azaleas inspire you to get married at Honor Heights Park, you can find gowns and tuxedos at Crowning Moments, 221 W. Broadway.

Rustic Elegance, 107 W. Broadway, now offers women’s clothing from Pinion Creek Trading Co. along with its unique gifts.

Turn the corner at Main Street and find cast iron Dutch ovens, farm and ranch supplies and nails at Hoopes Hardware, 108 S. Main St., a Muskogee fixture since 1933.

Even the chamber office, 310 W. Broadway, has a selection of “Real Okie” T-shirts, hoodies and other doo-dads.

• • • Drive along York Street for even more selections.

Find some mowers and other lawn supplies at Marvin’s Mowers and Outdoor, 2000 N. York St. Find fudge and other gifts at Economy Pharmacy, 412 N. York St. York also has several places to grab some groceries — Save-ALot, 2105 N. York St.;

Staff photo by Cathy Spaulding

For a healthy break, visitors can grab fresh produce at Arnold Fruit Co. on Shawnee Bypass.

Marvin’s IGA, 615 N. York St., and two Homeland supermarkets at 2410 Chandler Road and 1300 S. York St. “It’s a very busy street,” said Connie Weese, owner of I’m a Basket Case, 950 N. York St.

• • • Shawnee Bypass offers a variety of home furnishing options, as well as major shopping centers.

Start your furniture store browsing at Allen Furniture, 2332 W. Shawnee Bypass. Further east, find Furniture Factory Outlet, 1551 W. Shawnee Bypass, and Cooper’s Furniture, 1101 W. Shawnee Bypass. Bob Loftis Furniture is at 2501 E. Shawnee Bypass, right across from Bacone College.

While you’re out browsing for furniture, grab

some fresh fruit, veggies and nuts at Arnold Fruit Co., 1412 W. Shawnee Bypass.

• • • Of course, you don’t have to go to a certain “region” to shop. Some stores found their own special pockets around town. Shoppers can find women’s fine clothing — and meet a pair of friendly pups, Archie and Simon — at Bella Mea’s, 1601 E. Okmulgee Ave. “A lot of people who work in downtown come here,” said Bella Mea’s owner, Billie Flinn.

Cagle’s Flowers & Gifts, 3302 E. Harris Road, offers full floral services and other nice things in far north Muskogee.

Reach Cathy Spaulding at (918) 684-2928 or cspaulding@muskogee phoenix.com.

Page 18 — Sunday, March 29, 2015 Visitors’ Guide

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Muskogee Phoenix

Restaurants offer variety

Shoppers can find all kinds of local goodies

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 7

Muskogee is retail hub for East Central Oklahoma

By Cathy Spaulding Phoenix Staff Writer

Staff photos by Kandice Lawson

Hamlin’s El Toro, a Mexican restaurant, offers traditional dishes and is well-known for their white sauce dip.

Sakura Japanese Hibachi Grill and Sushi Bar waitress Jenny Weng brings out a fresh plate of sushi for waiting patrons.

No visit to Muskogee is complete without getting a little something.

A big something could be even better.

Visitors to Muskogee can bring home all sorts of things — clothing and cars, gifts and groceries, art and antiques, hardware and houses. They just need the right places to look.

Evelyn Hopkins knows where to look.

“It depends on what I’m shopping for,” Hopkins said while browsing at I’m Staff photo by Cathy Spaulding a Basket Case, one of a West Highland white terriers Archie, left, and Simon, sit ready to greet customers at Bella Mea’s, a clothing variety of stores along store on East Okmulgee Avenue.

York Street.

She said she goes to Wal-Mart and Lowe’s a lot.

“And I like this place,” she said. “It’s got a great selection of personal items.”

Muskogee has several “regions” where people can shop.

“Muskogee is a retail hub for East Central Oklahoma, and can offer variety not found in many other cities of the same size,” said Alisha Tanksley, vice president of the Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Shoppers can conveniently find a variety of specialty boutiques and antique stores located in the downtown area, within a few blocks of Arrowhead Mall.

Both Main Street and Broadway offer the ability to park and walk while shopping. For those retailers with national recognition, both Arrowhead Mall in downtown and Three (See SHOPPERS, 8)

Page 6 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

AZALEA FESTIVAL EVENTS Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off. The annual Azalea Festival Parade will kick More than 100 teams are expected to provide lots off at 11 a.m. April 11. of chili and barbecue.

The theme for this The event runs from 11 year’s parade is a.m. to 5 p.m. April 11.

“American Bandstand.”

Taster kits may be Clowns, clubs, church- purchased for $10 for es, businesses, school one, or $15 for two. groups, elected officials, Proceeds benefit chilbands, horse riders all dren’s organizations in participate in the Muskogee such as Kids’ parade.

Space and Court The parade will begin Appointed Special on Okmulgee Avenue, Advocates (CASA) For west of the Muskogee Children.

Civic Center, and loops To get in the spirit around on Broadway. ahead of time, visitors can take in the kick-off at the Civic Center Chili and Barbecue party on April 10. The party Cook-off will star musical perAfter the Azalea formances by Kinsey Festival Parade, visitors Sadler. can head over to the area The concert is free for west of the Civic Center adults 21 years and for the Muskogee older.

Parade

CALENDAR Continued from Page 14

Quilt Show The annual Muskogee Quilters Guild Quilt Show will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 10 and 11 at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 2130 W. Okmulgee Ave. The cost is $5.

The colorful quilts on display are truly works of art. Throughout the day, veteran quilters will teach techniques and share their best tips with visitors.

The show will feature more than 100 entries in 12 categories. Ribbons will be awarded in each category.

One of the highlights of the show is the raffle. Be sure to buy a raffle ticket to win a quilt that will be given away on April 11.

(See AZALEA, Page 10)

Visitors’ Guide Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 19

Phoenix file photo

The Muskogee High School Band marches along Broadway during the Azalea Festival Parade last year.

corner of Seventh Street and Okmulgee Avenue. The show is held in conjunction with Muskogee’s Azalea Parade and Chili Cook-off. Entry fee for participants in the show is $15. Come see a great line up of classic cars and hot rods from far and wide and the chili cook-off is close by. Visitor admission is free. Information: www.muskogeecruizaders.co m or Rebecca, (918) 6823496.

16th annual Bare Bones International Independent Film, Arts & Music Festival, from April 10 through April 19.

The festival is the result of the hard work of Oscar and ShIron Ray. The festival is dedicated to screening feature motion picture projects with budgets less than $1 million.

The Bare Bones Film Festival experience has long been touted as the "Friendliest Film Festival" by the many filmmakers who return year after year.

Films are screened at several local venues, so check in at barebonesfilmmusicfestival.org for information.

Art Under The Oaks Competitive Show and Market, from April 6 to April 30, takes place at the Five Civilized Tribes Museum on Honor Heights Drive.

Each year, this cultural event brings people from across the United States to Muskogee to learn and appreciate the culture and traditions of the Five Tribes, who were removed from their homelands in the Southeastern United States to Indian Territory.

The Reception and Awards Presentation for the competition is from 2 to 4 p.m. April 12.

The market is April 18 and will include artists and crafters who will be displaying and selling their works. Plenty of food will be available, including traditional tribal fare.

Information: (918) 6831701.

10TH ANNUAL AZALEA POW-WOW, 2 p.m. April 18, Muskogee Civic Center. Hosts are Fife Indian United Methodist Church and MultiCultural Division/City of Muskogee. There will be Gourd Dancing from 2 to 5 p.m., a dinner break from 5 to

6 p.m., gourd dancing from 6 to 7 p.m. and Grand Entry at 7 p.m. There will be cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Adult Contests and Special Junior/Tiny Tots Category.

Contestants must participate in the grand entry. Admission is $5 at the door. Information: Stan Smith, (580) 491-1350 and Joyce Deere, (918) 2304734.

2015 GREAT DECISIONS, 7 p.m. Grant Foreman meeting room, Muskogee Public Library. The lineup: April 7 — Syria’s Refugee Crisis, Dr. Don Betz; April 14 — Privacy and the Digital Age, Dr. David Scott; April 21 — Russia and the Near Abroad, Dr. Don Betz; April 28 — Human Trafficking in the 21st Century, Mike Snowden. Great Decisions lectures are funded by the Muskogee Public Library’s Hultquist Trust. All programs in the series are free and open to all area residents and members of the general public.

32nd ANNUAL QUICHE AND SALAD LUNCHEON AND BAKE SALE, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 23, St. Joseph Parish Hall, 301 N. Virginia St. The cost is $7 which includes a variety of salads, quiche and a drink. Homemade baked goods will be available for purchase. Luncheon proceeds benefit the Church Sacristy and needs of the parish.

Information: Mary Upchurch, (918) 478-9520 or mfupchurch@yahoo.com.

“GERONIMO, LIFE ON THE RESERVATION,” 7:30 p.m. April 4, Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, 401 S. Third St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Starring Rudy Ramos. This is a story about the last 23 years of Geronimo’s life as a prisoner of war. Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of the show.

Information: (918) 687-0800 or OMHOF.com.

INAUGURAL RHINESTONE COWBOY MUSKOGEE — A TRIBUTE TO THE GLAMOROUS WEST, 5:30 p.m. April 7, Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. For reservations, contact Samantha Cook, (918) 683-1578 or scook@voaok.org. Individual tickets are $20 or $35 per couple. Dinner will be catered by Cowboys Bar-B-Q and (See CALENDAR, Page 20)

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Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 5

Bare Bones celebrates films

By Cathy Spaulding Phoenix Staff Writer

Phoenix file photo

James Tolbert with EASTAR offers up barbecue chicken during last year’s Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off

CALENDAR Continued from Page 19 Catering. Proceeds benefit Volunteers of America Oklahoma (RSVP of Muskogee). The mission is to respond to Oklahomans in need and create opportunities for people to experience the joy of serving others.

Volunteers of America Oklahoma reaches out to over 2,000 individuals every month providing affordable senior housing, residential support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and assisting individuals at risk of homelessness.

Information: www.voaok.org or www.facebook.com/VOAOKR hinestoneCowboy.

MUSKOGEE ART GUILD SPRING JUDGED ART SHOW, Entries must be delivered to Arrowhead Mall between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

April 9 for hanging.

Applications to enter the show can be found on www.muskogeeartguild.org. The Muskogee Art Guild Spring Judged Art Show Reception and awards presentation will be from 6 to 8:45 p.m. April 10 at the Arrowhead Mall. The Muskogee Art Guild Spring

Judged Art show will be April 11-18 at the Arrowhead Mall. Information: Marie Gassaway, (918) 682-3745.

NATIONAL SUBMARINE DAY, April 11, Muskogee War Memorial Park, 3500 Batfish Road. National Submarine Day takes place on April 11 to honor the anniversary of the USS Holland, the first modern commissioned United States submarine. For this event on April 11, they will have diesel boat veterans leading guided tours through the USS Batfish.

Information: (918) 682-6294.

PARTY IN THE PARK WINE, BEER & FOOD TASTING, 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. April 18, The Papilion at Honor Heights Park. Cost: $15 in advance/$20 at the door with souvenir glass. Information: www.muskogeerotary.org.

“QUILTED DREAMS,” 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 10-11, St. Paul United Methodist Church.

This is the Muskogee Area Quilters Guild 30th annual quilt show. Admission $5. There will be over 100 quilts, Vendors, Boutique with lots of gift ideas, Demonstrations, Raffle Quilt, (See CALENDAR, Page 21)

Bare Bones is not the most star-studded film festival around — but it might be the friendliest.

“People come here for the love and attention,” said ShIronbutterfly Ray, a festival founder and director. “That’s one thing they care for is the recognition. That’s part of the experience. Film festivals are not always celebrities.”

The 16th annual Bare Bones International Independent Film, Arts & Music Festival, April 1019, will feature at least 200 films.

“I haven’t counted them all, but we have close to 250,” Ray said. “We probably have 50 features, including feature documentaries and narrative films. The rest are shorts.

We have 30 music videos; music is in there, too. It’s a film and music festival.”

Bare Bones gives filmmakers an opportunity they otherwise might not have to show their films.

“This can be their start and end of their movie making until they go to the next festival,” Ray said.

Different types and genres of films will be shown on different days.

Brave enough for horror movies? Those will be shown April 10.

Christian or faithbased family movies can be seen April 12 and 17.

Animation and science fiction movie lovers should remember April 11.

April 18 is the night for romance and westerns, as well as mystery and crime dramas.

The films will be shown at sites all over town, Ray

said.

Three Rivers Museum, 220 Elgin Ave., will be site for most of the documentaries, she said.

Other venues include Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, 401 S. Third St.; Roxy Theatre, 220 W. Okmulgee Ave. and Studio Broadway, 213 W. Broadway.

Special events will accompany several showings.

For example, a pie tasting will be held after the showing of “Pie Lady of Pie Town,” 2 p.m. April 18 at Three Rivers Museum, Ray said. The short movie is about a Dallas businesswoman who ended up baking pies in a tiny New Mexico town with no traffic light or gas station.

And April 13 is Dog Day at Studio Broadway.

“You bring in your dog for a reception,” Ray said, adding that all movies shown at the reception will focus on dogs.

The Dog Bone Reception will be at 4 p.m. Canine classics for the day include “Doc: My Friend: Changing the Journey,” about dogs and their owners battling lymphoma. There also will be a music video, “My Dog.” “April 18 is Youth Day at the Roxy,” Ray said.

The Youth and Family Film Fest will run noon to 3:30 p.m. The festival will feature a variety of shorts and animated movies with a feature presentation at 2 p.m., “The Incredible Adventures of Jo Jo and His Annoying Sister, Avila.”

“This little boy and his sister have a car wreck in the woods and must find their way home,” Ray said. “It is the most adorable movie.”

If you go WHAT: 16th annual Bare Bones International Independent Film, Arts & Music Festival WHEN: April 10-19 WHERE: Various venues across Muskogee.

INFORMATION, TICKETS and SCHEDULE: www.barebonesfilmmusicvestival.org

There will be a special prize drawing for kids wearing pajamas and boots to the screening, she said.

Fans of science fiction and comics conventions have a special treat April 11 at Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.

“The Posthuman Project,” a sci-fi fantasy, will be shown shortly after 7:30 p.m. The feature focuses on five teens who are given superhuman powers.

At 9:15 p.m., costumed visitors are invited to a Cosplay Party at OMHOF. “This is for people who develop their own costumes. They may be super heroes, whatever,” Ray said.

Prices vary through the week, Ray said.

Visitors have free admission from 5 to 10 p.m. April 15 at Studio Broadway, she said.

Film lovers can get an All-Fest passport for $95.

General admission to single festival venues will be $7 on April 10-14 and $10 on April 16-18.

Tickets for the Awards Gala, 5 p.m. April 19 at Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, are $5.

Reach Cathy Spaulding at (918) 684-2928 or cspaulding@muskogee phoenix.com.

Submitted

The documentary “My Friend: Changing the Journey” has been nominated for Best Educational Documentary Feature at the 16th annual Bare Bones International Film and Music Festival. CLEAR (Canine Lymphoma Education Awareness and Research), has produced the documentary and features the stories of three special dogs fighting the disease as well as interviews with experts in the field of veterinary medicine and cancer research.

Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 21

CALENDAR Continued from Page 20 Door Prizes and Lunch Available from the UMW. Information: Sue Tardiff, (651) 470-1179, stardiff3822@hotmail.com or www.MAQG.net.

May

20th ANNUAL OKLAHOMA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Weekends: May 2-31; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Student Day, May 8; plus Memorial Day, May 25.

Costumed performers and artisans present renaissance music, magic, comedy, juggling, jousting, tomfoolery, arts, food, drink, and more!

Entertainment for all ages will be found at the 2015 Oklahoma Renaissance Festival. Information and online discount ticket purchase: http://okcastle.com.

TOLLING OF THE BOATS, 11 a.m. May 9, Muskogee War Memorial Park, 3500 Batfish Road. This event honors the 52 submarines that the United States lost during World War II. Submarine veterans will be honoring those sailors on eternal patrol by tolling the bell and announcing the name of the lost vessel. The event is free to the public, but donations are always appreciated. Information: (918) 6826294.

June

MUDSTOCK, June 5 and

6, Non-stop action packed mud volleyball. Family fun and music. Proceeds will benefit MCCOYS and WISH. Three Forks Harbor, 5201 Three Forks Road, Fort Gibson. Information: (918) 781-3609.

KID'S FISHING RODEO,

June 20, Three Forks Harbor, 5201 Three Forks Road, Fort Gibson.

SYMPHONY IN THE PARK, June 20, Honor Heights Park. Bring a blanket and a picnic basket to relax while enjoying this summer spectacle topped off by a fire-

works display. Information: (918) 684-6302.

July

PORT TO FORT ADVEN-

TURE RACE, July 11, the Port To Fort is a three-person team or solo sprint adventure race and a separate 5k trail run for those who only want to run. The adventure race will test your swimming, trail

running and canoeing/kayaking skills. Three Forks Harbor, 5201 Three Forks Road, Fort Gibson. Information: (918) (See CALENDAR, Page 22)

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Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

CALENDAR 682-2401.

August

RENTIESVILLE DUSK TIL

DAWN BLUES FESTIVAL, Aug. 28-30. Features multiple stages and dozens of topknotch performers.

Information: (918) 855-0978, dcminner@windstream.net,

www.dcminnerblues.com, 701 D.C. Minner St., Rentiesville.

RIVER RUMBA AND CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA PARTY, Aug. 28.

Enjoy an evening or afternoon

on the water at Three Forks Harbor. This annual event includes a River Rumba party on Friday night and the River Rumba Cardboard Boat Regatta on Saturday. Three Forks Harbor, 5201 Three Forks Road, Fort Gibson.

Information: Muskogee Parks & Recreation, (918) 684-6302.

October

HAUNTED HISTORY TROLLEY TOURS, Oct. 1617.

HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL

Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 3

‘American Bandstand’ sets stage for parade at the Castle of Muskogee, 3400 Fern Mountain Road, 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 30, Oct. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29.

Nine different Haunts in one location. From the scary to the non-scary. Enjoy the free Haunted Village. Dance under the big tent to your favorite monster music. Something for all ages. Information: (918) 681-3625 (800) 439-0658 www.okcastle.com

November

GARDEN OF LIGHTS,

Honor Heights Park, This will be the 25th year that thousands of twinkling lights fill the park for the holidays. The park opens Thanksgiving night and is open every night through Jan. 1. Other activities include hayrides through the park, and winter skating. Winter Skate hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Jan. 1. Winter Skate is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Private skate parties are available before regular hours.

To schedule a hayride or private skating party, call (918) 684-6302, ext. 1469 during the day.

CASTLE CHRISTMAS, The Castle of Muskogee, 3400 Fern Mountain Road, opens Thanksgiving night and is open every night through Jan. 1. The massive display has tens of thousands of lights and almost 2,000 inflatables for the Castle’s Christmas extravaganza. Information: (918) 6813625 (800) 439-0658 www.okcastle.com

December

GARDEN OF LIGHTS, Honor Heights Park, This will be the 25th year that thousands of twinkling lights fill the park for the holidays. The park opens Thanksgiving night and is open every night through Jan. 1. Other activities include hayrides through the park, and winter skating. Winter Skate hours are 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Jan. 1. Winter Skate is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Private skate parties are available before regular hours.

To schedule a hayride or private skating party, call (918) 684-6302, ext. 1469 during the day.

CASTLE CHRISTMAS, The Castle of Muskogee, 3400 Fern Mountain Road, opens Thanksgiving night and is open every night through Jan. 1. The massive display has tens of thousands of lights and almost 2,000 inflatables for the Castle’s Christmas extravaganza. Information: (918) 6813625 (800) 439-0658 www.okcastle.com

Theme reflects nostalgia, Muskogee’s musical roots

By Harrison Grimwood Phoenix Staff Writer

“American Bandstand” is this year’s theme for the Azalea Festival Parade, playing to the strings of Muskogee residents.

From music to dance to fashion, “American Bandstand” represents a big slice of the American experience, according to the Muskogee Parks and Recreation Office parade invitation.

Joel Everett, the special projects manager for the Muskogee Parks and Recreation Office, said the theme was chosen for its broad range and for its nostalgia.

“We have a musical town, we always have a lot of musical parade entries,” Everett said.

The 2015 parade will start at 11 a.m., April 11 in downtown Muskogee on Okmulgee Avenue.

Everett said the parade usually is an hour or longer.

Clubs, churches, school groups, elected officials, bands, horse riders are just a small slice of the people that celebrate springtime during the Muskogee Azalea Festival.

“The parade and the festival is really what kind of defines us,” Everett said. “It defines who we are to ourselves and to everyone else.”

Phoenix file photo

The Muskogee Bedouin Shriners have the largest entry, including Hi-Bi the Clown, in the Azalea Festival Parade each year.

If you go WHAT: Azalea Festival Parade.

WHEN: 11 a.m., April 11.

WHERE: Downtown Muskogee on Okmulgee Avenue and Broadway.

At least a third of the town comes out for the annual festivities. The downtown area is pretty well packed with the parade and a chili and barbecue cook-off sponsored by the Muskogee Exchange Club.

The parade is the largest event the Parks and Recreation Office does every year.

“We’re lucky to have this, because most towns our size don’t have something like this,” Everett said. “Everyone’s hobbies, passions are brought into the open; all the special things in our community are brought out in one day.”

The Muskogee Bedouin Shriners have the largest parade entry each year, Everett said. Shriners from all across Northeast Oklahoma come out for

the parade.

“You can count on them to be there,” he said.

“Having them is like another little parade in the parade.”

The shriners show up in classic cars, in clown cars, on horses and much more, Everett said.

The festival is a sample of the community.

“Everyone gets a bit of ownership with the parade and the cook-off,” Everett said.

Reach Harrison GrimPhoenix file photo wood at (918) 684-2926 or harrison.grimwood@ The Azalea Festival Parade draws children of all ages. muskogeephoenix.com.

Page 2 — Sunday, March 29, 2015

Muskogee Phoenix

Visitors’ Guide

Cook-off offers fun, chance to help others Barbecue, chili event raises funds for children’s charities

If you go WHAT: Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off kickoff party.

WHERE: Muskogee Civic Center.

WHEN: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., April 10 WHO: Open to the public, 21 and over.

COST: Free admission.

••• WHAT: Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off. WHERE: Muskogee Civic Center.

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

COST: $10 for one taster kit, $15 for two.

By Harrison Grimwood Phoenix Staff Writer

Organizers of the annual Muskogee Exchange Club’s Chili and Barbecue Cook-Off expect more than 100 cook teams to join the club’s effort in fundraising for children’s charities.

The cook-off is the club’s largest fundraiser, bringing in about $50,000 last year, said Robert Smith, chairman of the event.

Smith said he hopes this year’s cook-off will break the $70,000 mark.

“There is lots of great barbecue, lots of great chili and lots of money raised for children in need,” Smith said.

About 20,000 people attended and participated last year.

“It should be a great year,” club President Mark Maples said. “We have more corporate sponsors this year than ever before.”

The Muskogee Exchange Club raises money to help fund children’s organizations in Muskogee like Kids’ Space and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) For Children.

“Everything we do, all the money we raise, goes to help children,” Maples said.

In all, the club helps support about 12 different organizations around Muskogee.

The cook-off will be at

Phoenix file photo

About 20,000 people attended and participated in the Muskogee Exchange Club’s annual Chili and Barbecue Cook-off. The event raised about $50,000 for children’s charities last year.

the Muskogee Civic Center. It will start at about 11 a.m. Saturday, when the Azalea Festival Parade is wrapping up,

Smith said.

Cooking teams will compete for several awards, while the crowds benefit from the competition.

People can sample the teams’ efforts by purchasing a taster kit, $10 for one and $15 for two.

The cook teams con-

tribute their resources and money to provide food at the event, earning nothing but the clout that comes with cooking deli-

cious foods. All the money from the taster kits goes to the club.

While parents are busy with barbecue, the kids can enter the Kids’ Zone.

The Kids’ Zone is a place of inflated playgrounds with camels and ponies to ride.

The Express Clydesdales, ambassadors for Express Employment Professionals, will make their appearance at the Kids’ Zone, allowing ample opportunity for photos.

The cook-off has been going on for about three decades now, Smith said.

It has grown every year, and Smith said he hopes to see it continue that growth.

The fun starts with a kick-off party beginning at 7 p.m. Friday at the civic center. The party will star musical performances by Kinsey Sadler.

The concert is free for adults 21 years and older.

People interested in VIP tickets can contact the Exchange Club.

Reach Harrison Grimwood at (918) 6842926 or harrison .grimwood@muskogeephoenix.com.

Visitors’ Guide

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, March 29, 2015 — Page 23

Many low-cost options for families

By Mark Hughes Phoenix Staff Writer

What can you do in Muskogee that won’t bust your budget? Just about anything from museums, parks, swimming pools to golf.

• • • • Three Rivers Museum is dedicated to preserving the multi-ethnic history and heritage of the American frontier.

Upcoming events includes a historic cemetery tour of Greenhill Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. June 6; Railroad Heritage Day, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 30; Muskogee's Historic Homes and Buildings Tour, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sept. 12 and The Haunted History Trolley Tours, 5:30 p.m. Oct. 16-17 and Oct. 23-24.

The museum is located at 220 Elgin St. and can be reached at (918) 6866624 or at threeriversmuseum@gmail.com. Prices are adults $3 and all school students $1.50. On Wednesdays, adults 55 and older can enter for $1.50.

• The Five Civilized Tribes Museum, 1101 Honor Heights Drive, which displays the art, culture and history of its namesake, will hold the following art shows: Art Under The Oaks Market, April 18; Smithsonian Hometown Sports Exhibit, June 12 and the Masters Art Show, Nov. 230. The museum is open every month except January. Prices are $3 for adults, $2 for seniors and $1.50 for students.

Children under 5 are free.

The museum’s website is www.fivetribes.org. They can be reached at (918) 683-3070 or 5tribesdirec-

tor@sbcglobal.net.

• • • For outdoor enthusiasts the Muskogee area offers fun and recreation at four area lakes.

• Fort Gibson Lake facilities include boat ramps, picnic areas, six Class A campgrounds for RV and tent camping, full electric hookups, drinking water, group shelters, restrooms, showers, swimming beaches, six marinas, enclosed fishing dock, and concession services.

Sequoyah Bay State Park features 71 semimodern recreational vehicle sites with water and electric hook-ups, two dump stations and 180 regular tent sites.

Sequoyah State Park visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, guided horseback trail rides and Western-themed activities as well as golf and disc golf, fishing and camping. Three Forks Nature Center frequently has activities for kids.

Sequoyah Lodge has recently undergone a renovation, and cabins also are available.

• Greenleaf State Park has 16 cabins with bathrooms, kitchens with fullsize appliances and heat and air. Greenleaf State Park Trail System offers three trails: Family Fun Trail, Deer Run Nature Trail and Greenleaf Lake Hiking Trail.

Family Fun Trail is 1 1/2 miles long and is paved. It is a beginnerlevel trail that is wheelchair-accessible Deer Run Nature Trail is a mile long and takes visitors into the hilly, wooded areas of the park.

Greenleaf Lake Hiking Trail is an 18-mile-long trail. It allows hiking

enthusiasts to go deep into the wooded areas on the east side of Greenleaf Lake.

• Lake Tenkiller facilities include boat ramps, picnic areas, recreational vehicle and tent campsites, enclosed fishing docks and a swimming pool, along with many other amenities. Tenkiller features almost 13,000 surface acres and 130 miles of shoreline. It has 10 marinas, 24 boat ramps, a scuba diving park and 20 camping parks.

• Lake Eufaula is Oklahoma’s largest lake and covers 105,500 surface acres with 600 miles Staff photo by Cathy Spaulding of shoreline. You can enjoy Remodeled rooms at Sequoyah Lodge feature two colors of paint to reflect the all that water by bringing red brick and flagstone outside. your boat to the many boat ramps available or you can rent houseboats, pontoon boats, ski boats, canoes or paddle boats.

Lake Eufaula State Park has about 34 full hookup RV sites, 65 RV sites with water and electric and 93 tent sites available.

Information: www.travelok.com/state_parks.

• • • Two public golf courses are available in Muskogee.

• Cobblestone Golf Course has 18 holes, 6,936 yards from longest tee with a par 72. You can find it at 700 E. Smith Ferry Road. Call (918) 682-4845 for tee times.

• Eagle Crest Golf Course, which offers 18 holes, is at the corner of 40th Street and Border Avenue. The course features 6,506 yards from the longest tee for a par of 72. Call (918) 682-0866 for tee times.

Reach Mark Hughes at (918) 684-2908 or mhughes @muskogeephoenix.com.

2015 Azalea Festival

Visitors’ Guide Things to do in Muskogee!