Living Here

LIVING HERE A NEWCOMERS GUIDE TO MUSKOGEE

Muskogee Phoenix 2012

Page 2 — Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Living Here

City has selection of health care facilities

By Travis Sloat

Phoenix Correspondent

Muskogee is home to a wide selection of health care facilities that are capable of providing both long and short-term care to those who may be suffering from any number of illnesses or maladies.

The primary health care providers in Muskogee are Muskogee Regional Medical Center, Muskogee Community Hospital, Three Rivers Health Center, the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center and Solara, which is a long-term acute care hospital.

Christina Deidesheimer, the public relations director at MRMC, said that she was upbeat about the

Jason Dansby, MD

Muskogee Regional Medical Center is one of several health care options in Muskogee.

Maternal & Family Practice Associates 3330 West Okmulgee St., Muskogee, OK 74401

918-682-4318 Specializing in total family care for patients of all ages.

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Maternal & Family Practice Associates 3330 West Okmulgee St., Muskogee, OK 74401

918-682-4318 Specializing in total family care for patients of all ages.

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Special photo by Travis Sloat

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Maternal & Family Practice Associates 3330 West Okmulgee St., Muskogee, OK 74401

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current state of health care in the Muskogee area.

“Health care is rapidly changing,” Deidesheimer said. “And the need for collaboration of providers has become more and more necessary. We are creating a multi-year plan that helps us accomplish our vision.”

MRMC recently partnered with the Muskogee Community Hospital, and the two are working closely together to achieve a comprehensive health care system that will be able to better serve the residents of Muskogee.

Jason Butler, a materials manager for Unarco and Muskogee resident, said that all of his experi-

ences with the Muskogee health care system have been positive ones.

“It’s local,” Butler said.

“You get great coverage, great service, and great treatment, and you don’t have to make an extra trip out of town to get it. It’s all available here. Other small cities may have the facilities, but they might not have the capabilities that Muskogee has.”

The Three Rivers Health Center is an outpatient facility just off the Muskogee Turnpike that offers a full range of health services to eligible tribal members. The facility is run by the Cherokee Nation and offers primary care, dental care, pedi-

atrics and a myriad of other services.

Cindy Martin, a representative for the hospital, said that the Three Rivers Health Center plays an important role in providing health care to the Muskogee area.

“Patients receive services that are located in their community, close to their homes,” Martin said. “We also work with other health entities in our communities in coordination of care of our patients through referral and/or discharge planning.”

Another hospital in the Muskogee area is the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center, on Honor Heights Drive. The VA

serves veterans who were honorably discharged from military service with a 111-bed facility that offers both inpatient behavioral management and inpatient rehab services.

Nita McClellan, the public affairs officer at the VA, said it provides safe, high-quality health care to 36,000 qualified veterans in 25 counties in eastern Oklahoma.

“In a medium-sized health care community, the VA focuses on teaching,” McClellan said. “We are affiliated with OSU and OU to assist the community in training providers for care in rural settings. The (See PROVIDERS, Page 3)

Living Here

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012 — Page 3

Providers focus on health of community Adventure Race held in July and the Garden of Lights,” Martin said “In addition, a Wellness Challenge was held for employees from February to May.” Butler said he thinks Muskogee health care providers are doing an excellent job when it comes

to taking care of him and his family.

“We trust them,” Butler said. “It’s easy to see they are taking an interest in the community, and they are trying to make us each healthier. I’m proud to be in a town with such thorough health care. It makes me feel safe.”

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Muskogee community is well suited to these types of training programs.”

All Muskogee health care centers provide unique and individual services that can both help heal those admitted, but also enrich the lives of those simply wanting to make a few healthy changes.

MRMC/MCH, the VA, and Three Rivers Health Center all offer individualized plans with one similar goal: getting the city of Muskogee in better shape.

Deidesheimer said MRMC/MCH takes its role of promoting the health and well-being of Muskogee residents very seriously.

“We collaborate with a multitude of partners in working to improve the health of our community,” she said. “We are committed to continuing our many free health screenings, and we also work with the physicians on our medical staff to offer free seminars on popular health topics to the public.”

The VA Medical Center is also encouraging its patients to make healthier choices in regards to both eating and exercise, McClellan said.

“The VA’s MOVE program is designed to teach veterans how to eat healthy and lose weight,” McClellan said. “When they enroll in the program, they get access to our exercise room. We also offer dieticians and a cooking class that teaches them

how to cook healthier meals for themselves and their spouse.”

In addition to that, the Three Rivers Health Center also has a focus on making Muskogee a healthier place in terms of everyday choices that the community makes towards diet and fitness goals.

Martin said the staff goes above and beyond by holding and participating in fitness events throughout the year.

“The Health Promotions/ Disease Prevention Services department and staff are actively involved and hold events such as the Muskogee Run held in April, Run for Wellness held in May, Port to Fort

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Page 4 — Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Living Here 081900354301

These area houses of worship invite you to join them. It could be the start of a beautiful relationship.

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Living Here

Muskogee Phoenix

NUMBERS YOU SHOULD KNOW Emergency

Driver’s License

• Police, Fire and Ambulance Emergency, 911.

• Driving Examinations, Department of Public Safety, Oklahoma Highway Patrol Office, 651 N. 43rd St. E., (918) 6879831.

• Tag Agent, 315 State St., (918) 6823763.

Non-emergency • Police, (918) 6838000.

• Fire, (918) 6875483.

• Ambulance, (918) 683-0130.

• Muskogee Animal Shelter, (918) 6846285.

• Animal Control Officer, (918) 6838000.

• Promoting Animal Welfare Society Inc. (PAWS), (918) 6867297.

Cable Television • SuddenLink Communications, 2510 Elliot St., (918) 687-7511.

City of Muskogee • City Hall, 229 W. Okmulgee Ave., (918) 682-6602.

Electric Company OG&E Electric Services • Customer Service, (800) 522-0280.

• Repair Service (24 hours), (800) 522-6870.

(See NUMBERS, Page 12)

Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012 — Page 5

Cultural opportunities aplenty

By Travis Sloat Phoenix Correspondent

Those looking for collections of culture in Muskogee don’t have to look very far. Muskogee is home to several museums, and each has a specific niche to fill.

From Oklahoma musicians and memorabilia to a decommissioned submarine and military history to a rich Native American history, Muskogee museums give everyone an opportunity to learn something new about the history of the state and the city.

At the Three Rivers Museum in downtown Muskogee, Executive Director Sue Tolbert said Muskogee’s history is unique because of the melding of the different races.

“The history of (Muskogee) is something

Special photo by Travis Sloat

The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame displays memorabilia from area musicians.

that lots of people are interested in,” Tolbert said. “If you can go into a museum and hear a story — especially local stories about people who came here and why they came

here — it makes the experience more real.”

The museum is rich with Muskogee history, with exhibits dedicated to Alice Robertson, the railroad, and even a silver tea

service, given to Charles Haskell by the city of Muskogee and lost by the family, only to be discovered on eBay, and is now (See MUSEUMS, Page 9) 081900354302

These area houses of worship invite you to join them.

It could be the start of a beautiful relationship.

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Page 6 — Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Living Here 081900354401

EMPLOYMENT DIRECTORY

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Living Here

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012 — Page 7

Retail shopping easy in Muskogee

By Travis Sloat Phoenix Correspondent

When Joe Burk needs to buy athletic equipment for his sons, he chooses to spend his time and money shopping in Muskogee.

Burk said that he would rather not spend his gas money going anywhere else, when great deals can be found right here in town.

“I would have to say that Arrowhead Mall is my favorite place to shop,” Burk said. “My kids enjoy it because of the experience. They get to go to a lot of shops at once, and they love the activity center by the food court.”

Retail shopping can be very easy in Muskogee, with a myriad of stores that combine well-stocked inventories with competitive pricing.

Sporting goods can be found at Walmart and Kmart, as well as Hibbett Sporting Goods, Foot Locker, Sport About, and many smaller specialty stores around Muskogee.

Arrowhead Mall, Curt’s Shopping Center, and the River City Plaza are home to a collection of stores with retail giants like Sears, JCPenney, Walmart, Best Buy and Big Lots. In addition to those three centers, there are plenty of other stores, shops, boutiques, and even a few antique stores.

Cristan Spear, who is the public relations manager for Arrowhead Mall,

Special photo by Travis Sloat

Dillard’s associate Ashley Hyslope assists Derrick Cheater and his dad with back-to-school shopping. Muskogee offers a myriad of stores that combine well-stocked inventories with competitive pricing.

said that when she was little, the mall was typically the place they came for their shopping trips.

“The mall is really convenient,” Spear said. “You can have lunch while you’re here, or you can get

a PikePass while you’re here. We have some different amenities that you won’t find anywhere else.

Convenience is really the essence of Muskogee shopping, with a lot of variety packed into a rela-

tively easy driving distance.

Alana Justice, a customer service representative for State Farm, said she loves going into Cato and Ross at the River City Plaza.

“They have incredible prices,” Justice said. “They also have a variety of sizes and styles, and their clearance sales really rock. I try to shop there whenever I can because I know I’m going to get a

good deal.”

The River City Plaza, located on Shawnee Bypass, is home to Cato and Ross, a Best Buy, PetCo, Dollar Tree, Game (See RESIDENT, Page 8)

Page 8 — Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Living Here

Resident: There are always new stores opening up here Continued from Page 7

Stop, and several other stores that provide essential goods and services.

Curt’s Mall has plenty of options to choose from with Hastings, Big Lots, Hobby Lobby, and many

more retailers, some of which are smaller niche shops.

All three major shopping centers also give you the option to enjoy a meal while you’re out shopping.

The River City Plaza has Chili’s and Subway,

Arrowhead Mall has a food court with a variety of restaurants, and Curt’s has a Mazzio’s, Hunan Chinese buffet, and even a snow cone shack if you need a sweet treat.

Muskogee is also home to more than a few home

improvement stores, such as Lowe’s, Hoope’s Hardware, and Mill Creek.

In addition, those looking for farm and ranch supplies can find them at J&E Feed, Orscheln, or Tractor Supply.

Burk said that he could find just about anything he needed while shopping in Muskogee.

“The prices are competitive,” Burk said. “There are always new stores opening up, and I enjoy seeing the community shop locally to keep the local economy growing.

That’s very important in a tough financial climate.”

Brandace Moore, the store manager at JCPenney, said that the store she manages is her favorite because it’s a very family-oriented store.

“We have a great selection,” Moore said. “We also have great customer service. We recently increased our amount of associates ... in preparation for the holiday shopping season.”

Other store managers echoed her sentiments, and all were pleased to be working and managing stores in Muskogee, particularly because of the importance the city places on family values.

Justice said that while she greatly enjoys shopping in Muskogee, she would like to see a couple of improvements in the overall experience.

“I wish some of the smaller shops would try to be a little more competitive on pricing,” Justice said. “I’d also like to see a Target and a Gordman’s brought in.

Overall though, I love shopping in Muskogee. I’m from a small town, and it’s nice to see such a big variety of items without all the headaches that come with big-city shopping.”

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Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012 — Page 9

Museums display submarine, music and Native culture Continued from Page 5

residing under glass in the museum.

Muskogee residents Evan and Leigh Cooper said they enjoy the museums around town and try to support them whenever they can.

Evan, an automotive mechanic, said the Three Rivers Museum is a really great place to take children.

“Not many towns have the heritage that we have here,” Evan said. “Our son loved the choo-choo exhibit at Three Rivers.”

Leigh, who is a schoolteacher, said she enjoys taking her students to the local museums to enrich their knowledge of local history.

“I recently took my class to the Batfish exhibit,” Leigh said. “My kids are really inquisitive, and all their questions were answered expertly by the guides there. Most of them had never seen an actual submarine, and this provided them with that opportunity.”

Evan agreed that the Batfish submarine was “pretty cool.”

The USS Batfish is a World War II submarine used from 1943-1945 that sunk 14 enemy vessels — three of which were other submarines. It is 300 feet long and allows visitors the opportunity to walk through it in a self-guided or professionally guided tour.

Rick Dennis, who manages the park and the

museum, said that the USS Batfish arrived in Muskogee in 1972, and the museum followed in 1986.

When asked what set his exhibit apart from others in Muskogee, his answer was simple and brief: “We have a submarine.”

“We have a 2,000square-foot museum where we have artifacts dating back to the Spanish-American War,” Dennis said.

“The Muskogee War Memorial is here to honor and educate, and provide experiences for people in regards to military history, specifically our veterans.”

In addition to the USS Batfish and the Three Rivers museums, Muskogee is home to the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame museum, the Thomas-Foreman Home, Ataloa Lodge, and the Five Civilized Tribes Museum.

The OMHOF is home to several exhibits showcasing Oklahoma and Muskogee musical talent, as well as offering an event center for musicians to perform.

Cases filled with signed guitars, records, and even costumes worn by performers while they were on stage, adorn the museum’s displays. A welcome video for tourists provides a vast amount of information on the Oklahoma music industry, both past and present.

If you go • Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, 401 S. Third St. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Thursday-Saturday. Cost: Adults $3, seniors and students $2, children 3 and under are free. Website: www.omhof.com • Ataloa Lodge, Bacone College campus in the Northwest quadrant behind the chapel. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. WednesdaySaturday, closed from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch.

Cost: None, but donations accepted. Website: ataloa.bacone.edu • Thomas-Foreman Home, 15th Street and West Okmulgee Avenue.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Thomas-Foreman Home is a living museum, and Tolbert is the director of that as well.

“It’s really one of Muskogee’s best-kept secrets,” Tolbert said.

“Only we’re really not trying to keep it a secret. The Thomas-Foreman Home was built in 1898 as a farmhouse. John Thomas built it when he moved to Indian Territory to become a judge. His daughter married his law partner, Grant Foreman, and they all lived there for the remainder of their lives.”

Tolbert also said the thing that makes this a unique museum is that the house has been preserved as the original occupants left it, complete with original furnishings and an exceptional book collection.

Friday and Saturday. Cost: Adults $3, students $1.50, children 6 and under are free.

• Three Rivers, 220 Elgin St. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. WednesdaySaturday. Cost: Adults $3, students $1.50, children 6 and under are free.

Website: www.3riversmuseum.com • USS Batfish and Muskogee War Memorial, Muskogee Turnpike, Exit 33. Hours: Seasonal, check website. Cost: Adults $6, children $3, seniors and retired military $5. Website: www.ussbatfish.com

Special photos by Travis Sloat

The USS Batfish, a World War II submarine, is on display at the Muskogee War Memorial Park. The sub sunk 14 enemy vessels — three of which were submarines.

The Five Civilized Tribe Museum is dedicated to preserving the art, history, and culture of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek), and Seminole tribes, according to the museum information sheet.

Also it is a historic building, built in 1875 and used by the Bureau of Indian Affairs as well as the Creek freedmen. It has served as an office, a residence, a school, an orphanage, and is now home to a large collection of art and sculpture exhibits from Native American artists.

Ataloa Lodge museum is on the Bacone College campus and provides visiSpecial photo by Travis Sloat tors with an inside look at Native American living Pictures of artists line the walls of the Oklahoma throughout Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. and the United States.

Page 10 — Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Living Here 081900354402

MEDICAL DIRECTORY 081909415701

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• Cherokee Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 10-2 • Rampage 527 W. Broadway • Crocs • Med Couture 918-683-8383

Living Here

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012 — Page 11

You should know • A dog problem — Call the police department, (918) 683-8000, and ask for animal control.

• Trash service prob-

lems — Call City Hall switchboard, (918) 682-6602, and ask for public works.

• Weeds or litter — Call

City Hall switchboard, (918) 682-6602, and ask for code enforcement.

• Water bill or service

problems — Call City Hall switchboard, (918) 682-6602, and ask for water department revenue.

• Potholes, clogged storm sewers — Call City Hall switchboard, (918) 682-6602, and ask for public works.

• Questions about zoning — Call City Hall switchboard, (918) 682-6602, and ask for planning department.

081900354403

MEDICAL DIRECTORY

Page 12 — Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Living Here

NUMBERS YOU SHOULD KNOW Montgomery VA Medical Center, 1011 • Call Before You Honor Heights Drive, Dig, (800) 522-6543. (918) 577-3000.

• Three Rivers Gas Company Health Center, 1001 Oklahoma Natural S. 41st St. E., (918) Gas Co. 781-6500 (877-781• Customer Service, 6511 toll-free).

(918) 683-5691.

• Solara Hospital, • Repair Service 351 S. 40th St., (918) (24 hours), (800) 682-6161.

664-5463.

• Green Country Behavioral Health Medical Facilities Services, 619 S. Main St., (918) 682• Muskogee 8407, (918) 682-8407 Regional Medical (24-hour crisis hot Center, 300 line).

Rockefeller Drive, (918) 682-5501.

Newspaper • Muskogee Community Hospital, • Muskogee 2900 N. Main St., Phoenix, 214 Wall (918) 687-7777.

St., (918) 684-2828.

• Jack C. Continued from Page 5

• U.S. Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., 172 • Oklahoma Poison Russell Senate Office Control, (800) 222Bldg., Washington, 1222.

D.C. 20510, (202) 224-5754; 1800 S. Post Office Baltimore St., Suite • Muskogee Post Water Company 800, Tulsa 74119, Office, 525 W. • City of Muskogee (918) 581-7651.

Okmulgee.

Payment Center, 113 • U.S. Sen. Jim • Customer Service, S. Third St. Inhofe, R-Okla., 205 (800) 275-8777.

• By phone, (866) Russell Senate Office 899-3610.

Bldg., Washington, • Online: ipn.payD.C. 20510, (202) Telephone mentus.com/otp/stde/ 224-4721; 1924 S. Company mskg.

Utica Ave., Suite 530, • AT&T Customer Tulsa 74104, (918) Service, (800) 288Public Library 748-5111.

2020.

• Muskogee Public • U.S. Rep. Dan • Repair Service Library, 801 W. Boren, D-Okla., 2447 (24 hours), (800) Okmulgee Ave., (918) Rayburn House 246-8464.

682-6657.

Office Bldg, Washington, D.C., Social Security Area legislators 20515 (202) 2252701; 431 W. • General Federal:

Poison Control

Information/ Services, (800) 772-1213.

• Local office, 24th Street and Shawnee Bypass, (918) 6872338.

Broadway, Muskogee, (918) 687-2533.

State: • Sen. Earl Garrison, DMuskogee, 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Room 533, Oklahoma City 73105, (405) 5215533.

Rep. George Faught, R-Muskogee, Room 301-A, Oklahoma City 73105, (405) 5577310.

• Rep. Jerry McPeak, D-Warner, Room 503, Oklahoma City 73105, (405) 557-7302. PO Box 63, Warner 74469.

USS Batfish

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Wednesday - Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 1:00pm to 6:00pm Call for more information on upcoming events 918-682-6294

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Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012 — Page 13

AREA VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES American Legion Auxiliary, Post 15, is open to the child, daughter or wife of someone who has served in the military, (918) 687-6171.

Girl Scouts, (918) 6837738 or (877) 855-7738 to reach the Muskogee Magic Empire office. Call the Tulsa volunteer department at (800) 7079914.

Muskogee County Community Action, 1313 N. Main St., Monica Blakely, route manager, (918) 683-2431; Stacy Turner, project director, (918) 577-6896.

Muskogee County Democratic Party, Dennis Wilhite, (918) 680-1942.

Muskogee County Republican Party, Jerry Huffer, chairman, (918) 616-1747.

Muskogee Regional Medical Center, Andrea Wilcoxen, (918) 684-2460.

Boy Scouts of America, Joe Lopez, Neosho District director, (918) 7436125.

Court Appointed Special Advocates, (918) 6868199, casaforchildren@sbcglobal.net.

Kids’ Space Muskogee County Child Advocacy Center, Shelly Stout, (918) 682-4204.

Muskogee Nursing Center, (918) 682-9232.

Magnolia Gardens, (918) 683-8388.

Grace Living Center, (918) 683-2914.

Eastgate Village Healthcare Center, (918) 682-3191.

Promoting Animal

Phoenix file photo

A batch of visitors, including 1928 Girl Scout Adelaide Johnson, right, celebrate the Girl Scouts’ centennial during a March 10 gathering at Three Rivers Museum by posing with “Promises to Keep,” a statue of a Girl Scout with boxes of cookies. The statue honors the city’s role as birthplace of the Girl Scout cookie tradition. Girl Scout are just one of the agencies that need volunteers in the area.

Welfare Society Inc. (PAWS), Dorothy Farmer, (918) 686-7297.

Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center, Greg Sorensen, (918) 577-3621.

American Red Cross, Ryan Hardaway, (918) 682-1366.

RSVP (must 55 and older). Drivers needed for helping senior citizens run errands, (918) 683-1578.

Meals on Wheels, any of the following numbers: Elaine Brownell, (918)

683-2666; Bethany Presbyterian Church, (918) 682-8683; Grace Episcopal Church, (918) 687-5416; St. Paul United Methodist Church, (918) 687-7571.

Muskogee Public Library, Friends of the Library and adult literacy tutoring, (918) 682-6657.

Muskogee Public Schools Mentoring Program, Peggy Jones, (918) 684-3700.

Muskogee Garden Club,

Martha Stoodley, (918) 683-2373.

Muskogee Farmers’ Market program with Gospel Rescue Mission to grow things for low-income people, Doug Walton, (918) 686-6939.

The Salvation Army needs people during the school year, (918) 6823384.

Ark of Faith, 401 E. Broadway, Sally Weiesnbach, (918) 6828411. Food handlers need-

ed.

Disabled American Veterans, help take veterans from home, to and from VA facilities including Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center, 1011 Honor Heights Drive.

Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license and insurance, pass a brief physical examination and have background check.

Orientation attendance required. Contact: Caron Gabbard, (918) 577-3737.

Page 14 — Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Living Here

Muskogee is rich in parks and trails

By Travis Sloat Phoenix Correspondent

Runners, joggers, walkers or simply those with children who need to burn off some extra energy will not be disappointed the parks and recreation selection Muskogee offers. With 18 parks, seven trails, a few splash pads, and a full-blown water park, Muskogee is home to a rich parks and recreation experience.

Dustin Carter, a Muskogee resident, said his favorite park to go to is Civitan, because of the fond childhood memories he has there.

“It’s really nice to see the improvements they’ve made over all,” Carter said. “The

walking trail is really nice, and that new playground is really good for the kids.”

Civitan Park is located on Gibson Street, just across from the Oklahoma School for the Blind. It features Oklahoma’s largest “all-access” playground and an 18-hole flying disc golf course.

Other parks include Honor Heights, Spaulding, and the Love-Hatbox Sports Complex.

Each park has several unique features that offer something different to its patrons.

Ember Jacobs, who works for First Baptist Muskogee, said that for Muskogee’s size, the selection of parks and walking (See HONOR, Page 19)

FOR ALL YOUR PROJECTS AROUND YOUR HOME, COME SEE US!!

Special photo by Travis Sloat

Members of the Bacone College women’s basketball team play in the splash pad at Honor Heights Park.

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Living Here

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012 — Page 15

FIRSTS FROM MUSKOGEE HISTORY Pioneer Boarding Car. • 1874 — The Rev. John Elliott of Oswego, Kan., who had been preaching at Fort Gibson, established First Presbyterian Church, the first church in Muskogee.

• 1874 — The Indian Progress, owned by E.C. Boudinot, Dr. E. Poe Harris and George A. Reynolds, became the city’s first newspaper.

• 1874 — Dr. George W. Cummings became the town’s first physician.

• 1876 — Services to the Five Civilized Tribes were centralized in Muskogee with the opening of Union Agency on Agency Hill. The building now houses the Five Civilized Tribes Museum.

• 1879 — The first opera house opened with a stage and rough board seats in

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a barn owned by Joshua Ross, east of the railroad tracks, off what is now Martin Luther King Street.

• June 3, 1885 — Bacone College opened with dedication of Rockefeller Hall.

• 1886 — First telephone service between Muscogee, Fort Gibson and Tahlequah.

• March 1, 1889 — U.S. District Court established here, with James M. Shackleford of

Indiana as judge. It was the first white man’s court in Indian Territory. With the establishment of the court, the city’s first courthouse was built at Second and Court streets. The first jail was a two-story stockade just west of the courthouse.

• 1889 — First National Bank, awaiting its official charter, began construction of the town’s first bank.

• May 2, 1890 — Federal law allowed marriage licenses to

be issued in Indian Territory for the first time in Muscogee.

The town’s first known wedding, however, was in January 1876, when Miss F.B. Laberelle wed A.J. Maxwell.

• October 1891 — Construction began at C Street and Okmulgee Avenue on a library organized by the Women’s Christian Temperance Union of Indian Territory.

(See FIRSTS, Page 17)

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• Dec. 25, 1871 — The first train crossed the Arkansas River bridge to Muscogee Station.

The new stop took its name from the Muscogee tribe of the Creek Nation, which had been removed to Oklahoma from the southeastern United States in the 1830s.

The spelling of the community’s name was changed officially July 19, 1900, to Muskogee.

• Jan. 18, 1872 — First post office established at Muscogee Station.

James L. Barnes named postmaster.

• Spring 1872 — First hotel established. Crude sleeping facilities were in railroad cars on a siding. Guests were served meals in the

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Page 16 — Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

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Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Aug. 19, 2012 — Page 17

Muskogee County polling places Precinct Polling place Address 5 Bethany Presbyterian Church 2000 Haskell Blvd.

7 Eastern Heights Baptist Church 2401 Haskell Blvd.

9 Chandler Road Church of Christ 3507 Chandler Road 11 Immanuel Baptist Church 711 Spaulding Blvd.

13 York Street Christian Church 1125 S. York St. 17 Rayfield Baptist Church 601 Indianapolis Ave. 21 Boston Avenue Baptist Church 201 S. 30th St. 22 Honor Heights Chapel 302 Honor Heights Drive 23 Martin Luther King Center 627 N. Third St. 28 Church of God of Prophecy 2410 N. 24th St. W. 33 Central Church of Christ 402 W. Main St., Haskell 36 Taft Resource Center 208 W. Seminole St., Taft 37 Timothy Baptist Church 5530 W. Okmulgee Ave. 38 Indian Capital Technology Center 2403 N. 41st St. E. 40 Fort Gibson Church of Christ 806 Lee St., Fort Gibson 41 Fort Gibson City Hall 200 W. Poplar St., Fort Gibson

44 45 46 47 49 50 51 52 53 55 58 59 60 61 64

Emmanuel Pentecostal Church 100 Buce St., Braggs Rural Water District #2 2310 S. Woodland Road First Assembly of God 3100 Gulick St. Lifepoint Church 2200 S. 32nd St. Grandview Baptist Church 3608 S. Cherokee Drive Boynton Community Center 200 W. Kenefick, Boynton Council Hill Community Center Council Hill Wainwright School 100 Walnut St., Wainwright Trinity Baptist Church 107 E. Prairie St., Oktaha New Hope Assembly of God 110 W. 58th St. S. First Baptist Church Webbers Falls Warner Assembly of God Church 206 Third St., Warner Green Valley Baptist Church 19702 S. Ross Road, Webbers Falls Summit First Baptist Church First Street and Broadway, Summit Porum Senior Citizens Center Second Street, Porum

Information: Muskogee County Election Board, (918) 687-8151.

ralization papers in Indian Territory.

• 1900 — Muskogee Light and Power Co. began electric and power service from a plant

on South Cherokee Street.

• March 16, 1905 — Muskogee Electric Traction Co. ran its first street car in Muskogee.

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• Oct. 30, 1896 — Oil was discovered at • 1893 — Prisoners in the federal jail near 1,200 feet by Creek Oil and Gas Co. near Second and Court streets set fire to that F.B. Severs gin on the east side of the structure and were moved to a stockade railroad.

• March 19, 1898 known as the Bull — Muskogee granted Pen between Third incorporation.

P.J. and Fourth streets, Byrne, a Democrat, just north of Denison. was elected the first The town’s gallows mayor the following also were in that June 1. facility, and at least • April 4, 1899 — five men were hanged there before Andrew Roberg of the turn of the centu- Muskogee was ry. issued the first natuContinued from Page 15

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Muskogee Phoenix

Living Here

MUSKOGEE COUNTY FAST FACTS 4511, 3000 North St. District 2, Stephen Wright, (918) 6827101, 1300 S. Cherokee St. District 3, Dexter Payne, (918) 6821910, 901 S. 74th St. W. Commisioners’ meetings: every Monday, 9 a.m., commissioners’ office.

District attorney: Larry Moore, (918) 682-3374, Muskogee

• Origin of name: Named for Muscogee (Creek) Indians.

• Population: 70,990, according to 2010 census estimate.

• Area: 811 square miles.

• Board of County Commissioners: (918) 682-9601, first floor, County Services Building, 400 W. Broadway.

District 1, Gene Wallace, (918) 682-

County Courthouse, 220 State St. Sheriff: Charles Pearson, (918) 6870202, Muskogee County Courthouse.

County clerk: Dianna Cope, (918) 682-7781, first floor County Services Building.

County treasurer: Kelly Garrett, (918) 682-0811.

District court clerk: Paula Sexton, (918)

682-7873, Muskogee County Courthouse.

County assessor: Dan Ashwood, (918) 682-8781, second floor County Services Building.

District judges: Mike Norman, (918) 687-1950; Thomas H. Alford, (918) 687-6388; Muskogee County Courthouse.

Associate district judge: Norman D. Thygesen, (918) 683-

7786.

Special district judges: Robin Adair, (918) 683-2997; Carl Robinson, (918) 6841611, Muskogee County Courthouse.

County health department: (918) 683-0321, 530 S. 34th St. County parks and recreation department: (918) 684-6302, 837 E. Okmulgee Ave. Voter registration

as of July 25, 2012: Total voters, 39,105.

Democrats, 25,137; Republicans, 9,503; Independents, 4,465.

Muskogee County Election Board, 6878151, 400 W. Broadway. Election Board Secretary Bill Bull.

County seat: Muskogee, incorporated March 19, 1898; Mayor Bob Coburn, (918) 682-6602.

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Honor Heights ‘crown jewel’ in park system Continued from Page 14

Special photo by Travis Sloat

Trayson and Trayshawn Sexton play on the bronze eagle statue at Honor Heights Park.

needed and where they will be used.”

Carter said that he tries to make it out to Muskogee parks and trails any chance he can.

In fact, he said his band has even had the opportunity to play in the Rainbow Division Memorial Amphitheater.

“The Rainbow Division Memorial Amphitheater makes an excellent

venue,” Carter said. “That is a really good thing for a park to have. People can spend time in the park and listening to music. I’d like to see more local artists showcased there.”

Honor Heights Park is located on Honor Heights Drive, and is said to be the “crown jewel in Muskogee’s Park system.”

It is situated on 132 acres, features many of the

Spaulding Park features two basketball courts as well as six tennis courts. The park also has a public swimming pool that is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Grandview Park is home to softball fields for those with a need to run the bases. Bill Pool Park, Douglas Maxey Park,

Elliot Park, and Rotary Park all offer basketball courts as well.

If you have any questions about any of the parks or trails listed, or you’d like to find out more details for other parks, then check the Parks and Recreation Web page at www.cityofmuskogee.com/ shell.asp?pg=17.

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trails is “awesome.”

“Most people just know about the three main parks,” Jacobs said.

“There are also several more that are very nice, especially with the addition of splash pads. The city does an exceptional job of maintaining all of the parks and the trails, and I feel safe and secure in whichever one I choose to go to.”

The Parks and Recreation website says that the city of Muskogee offers more than eight miles of trails for its citizens and visitors to traverse. Some of these trails run through other parks, and some take you through some scenic vistas along the way.

Centennial Trail is one of the newer and more unique trails to the city of Muskogee. It has two routes, one of which is a circuit around the LoveHatbox Sports Complex, and the other, which connects the complex with downtown Muskogee and the museums there.

There is also the Stem Beach Trail, which is located inside Honor Heights Park, the Civitan Trail, the Spaulding Trail, and several others located in different areas of Muskogee. The Parks and Recreation Department says in its Master Trail Plan that it wants to “be sure trails are safe and located where they are

walking trails, several ponds and small lakes, offers visitors and citizens fishing, volleyball, and tennis, and is also home to the biggest drive-through Christmas light show in Muskogee.

Jacobs said she also loves Honor Heights Park, and all of the things that are offered there.

“It’s nice because there are a lot of trees and shade,” Jacobs said. “I feel like I can do anything there anytime of the year.

Dustin and I love going out and having picnics by the ponds. Usually the ducks get a pretty good lunch too, because we can’t resist including them in our picnic.”

River Country Water Park is a relatively new addition to the city of Muskogee, but it’s one that keeps residents and visitors cool and wet throughout the hot summer months. The park is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and offers swimming pools, a lazy river ride, an interactive kids pool, and water slides. It’s located at 3600 Arline St. in Muskogee.

The Muskogee Parks and Recreation Department provides the residents and guests of Muskogee plenty of space and facilities for rest and relaxation. In addition, they’ve also provided several places in the parks for those who want to be active.

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