Outlook I

Outlook 2012

Expanding services

Staff photo by Mike Carrels

Carl Powell, right, and Tim Acker do work on a twinfold Eco-TwinMatic 150 as they prepare to load metal into the machine to be shaped at BRB Roofing and Manufacturing. In less than one year since BRB Roofing and Manufacturing moved to Muskogee from Fort Gibson, sales have increased 40 percent, Plant Superintendent Myrl Walker said.

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Outlook 2012

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Page 2

Submitted

This artist’s rendering shows the new MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) center expected to be completed this year at the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center.

Below: The Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center remodeled its surgery center in 2011.

HEALTH

VAMC ready for soldiers’ return from Afghanistan Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center expanded services in 2011

By Wendy Burton Phoenix Staff Writer

The Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center saw several changes and expansion of services in 2011, and a new director began in January.

Facility employees look forward to expanding more services with the return of thousands of soldiers from Afghanistan in 2012.

“We are the first line for returning combat veter-

ans, so they can transfer their military health care into the VA system,” said Nanette Waller, Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom program manager.

About 3,000 are expected to return to Oklahoma in March, though not all at once, she said.

The OEF/OIF program at Muskogee’s VA Medical Center is prepared for the influx, though exact numbers of those returning to

Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center WHERE: 1011 Honor Heights Drive.

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NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 1,129.

HOW LONG IN BUSINESS: Since 1923.

PHONE: (918) 5773000.

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eastern Oklahoma is unknown.

The first step is planning to attend demobilization briefings in Oklahoma City to give returning veterans an overview of services available and get them enrolled in the system, Waller said.

Additionally, the program visits local National

Guard units to do enroll-

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ment and education.

Director James Floyd began mid-January. He comes from a 32-year career in hospital administration, much of that with Veterans AfFloyd fairs, the U.S. Public Health Service and Indian Health Service.

Floyd said he would like to see the hospital move toward telemedicine — which allows doctors to

visit patients at home via camera.

“The more we can do for veterans in their homes or near their homes, the better,” Floyd said.

The VA Medical Center is a Joint Commission accredited facility serving 126,647 veterans in 25 counties in eastern Oklahoma.

The medical center also has outpatient clinics in Tulsa, Hartshorne and Vinita. Additionally, there is a separate behavioral (See VAMC, Page 3)

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Muskogee Phoenix

Outlook 2012

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Page 3

VAMC set to finish MRI suite in 2012 Continued from Page 2

“The more we can do for veterans in their homes or near their homes, the better.”

– James Floyd, Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center director

traumatic stress disorder, suicide prevention and more.

Four local clergy members completed the first cycle of the program to date.

Another 2011 program began in March. The Veterans Transportation Program brings veterans to and from their outpatient appointments in patriotic-themed buses and vans.

Top priority is given to veterans with disabilities, wheelchair-bound patients, cancer patients and

those who are at a high risk for suicide.

In 2012, perhaps the biggest project planned is an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) facility.

The medical center broke ground on the facility in October and hopes to have the $1.4 million project completed this year.

The new MRI suite is projected to be able to serve 2,000 veterans a year.

Reach Wendy Burton at (918) 684-2926 or wburton @muskogeephoenix.com.

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medicine clinic in Tulsa.

Muskogee’s facility operates 111 beds, including 14 psychiatric beds, 15 rehabilitation beds and seven hospice and pallative care beds.

The VA Medical Center’s biggest project of 2011 was the surgery suite remodel, said Nita McClellan, public affairs officer.

The surgery center now has five operating rooms with the latest state-ofthe-art surgical equipment.

Other projects completed in 2011 include installing 37 patient chair lifts in the outpatient care areas, building an 87space parking lot for veterans, employees and visitors, and the beginning of patient room renovations.

A new program began in July to help local clergy understand the needs of veterans.

The 13-week graduate level program provides instruction on topics such as the emotional cycle of a military deployment, post

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Muskogee Phoenix

Outlook 2012

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Page 5

Staff photos by Mike Carrels

Tim Acker, left, and Carl Powell do work on a twinfold Eco-TwinMatic 150 in preparation of loading metal into the machine to be shaped at BRB Roofing and Manufacturing. The company moved to Muskogee last year, doubling the amount of manufacturing space.

BUSINESS/INDUSTRY

Muskogee move pays off for BRB

By Mike Carrels

Phoenix Staff Writer

KEEFETON

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ny without moving to Muskogee.

The company’s building is one large piece of advertisement for its services. The office building was mostly (See COMPANIES, Page 6)

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willing to adapt to change to become more successful.

The winners are chosen by a committee of manufacturing professionals.

Briggs said that award likely would not have been bestowed upon the compa-

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12000 Hwy 64 South • Muskogee Non-Emerg. (918) 682-5833

BRB Roofing remodeled its location. All of the metal work was made on location and installed by the company.

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WHERE: 3143 N. 32nd St. EMPLOYEES: 75 HOW LONG IN BUSINESS: 35 years.

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In less than one year since BRB Roofing and Manufacturing moved to Muskogee from Fort Gibson, sales have increased 40 percent, Plant Superintendent Myrl Walker said.

And that’s all because of the location, BRB President Doss Briggs said.

“We’re on one of the busiest highways in Oklahoma, and that has increased visitors,” Briggs said.

The company, which employs 75, moved to 3143 N. 32nd St. from Fort Gibson in April 2011 because it needed more space and was unable to expand at its former location. It was a major investment that has paid off, BRB President Doss Briggs said.

“The location is great, and the additional space has been great,” Briggs said.

“Our capacity is such that we’re doing more with less.

We’re operating more efficiently and have been able to control our waste better, and our maintenance costs are less.”

The move doubled the amount of manufacturing space and increased office and display space by 50 percent. Because the building was gutted before the move, BRB was able to install energy efficient windows, lighting and insulation.

“We were able to build it in such a manner that even though our utilities are twice as much as before, the cost is the same.”

The company was even recently recognized by Gov. Mary Fallin when it was named a recipient of the Governor's Manufacturing Leadership Awards.

The Governor bestows the awards on state manufacturers in recognition of their pacesetting standards. The recipients must be progressive, forward-thinking and

1201 N York St • Muskogee, OK 74403 Phone: 918-781-2274 Mon-Fri 9:00 am to 7:00 pm • Sat. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

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Outlook 2012

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Page 6

‘Companies will have to diversify’ Continued from Page 5

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glass. Now, metal siding adorns the building, with a sloped metal roof complete with sleek guttering. A high, curved metal archway covers the walkway to the entrance of the building, all of which was made at the plant and installed by employees.

“If it’s built with sheet metal, we can make it,” Briggs said. “We make more panel profiles here than anyone around.”

Walker said the location and the building has increased foot traffic.

“This building does give a better display,” Walker said. “It’s easier to get to.

And we’ve had an increase in what I’d call ‘transient’ traffic — people going from Dallas to Missouri, or from Missouri to Dallas. We had one guy who happened to see us driving by and turned around.”

The benefits of metal roofing for not only businesses, but also homes, are numerous, Walker said.

“One square foot of metal roofing weighs less than one square foot of shingles,” Walker said. “You can get a metal roof in any color. Any. And you can’t in shingles.

Also, most insurance companies give a discount for metal roofing as well.

It’s not all just roofing the 35-year-old company does.

While the backbone is the production and installation of industrial and commercial roofing, the company also manufactures fencing under the name Thunder Canyon. Briggs said that part of the business has been slowly building because of the economy. The company also is developing a pre-engineered metal truss.

“We’re still in the engineering and computer designing phase of that,” Briggs said. “We’ve been working on that with OSU.” Briggs said another benefit of its location is there is plenty of room to expand.

“The future goal is to increase the manufacturing staff here,” Briggs said. “We are set up to be able to mass produce products here.”

Briggs estimates about 95 percent of the company’s business is roofing. In the future, he hopes the roofing will be 60 percent. That would mean an increase in the fencing business and expansion into other manufacturing endeavors.

“I really hope in 2013 to get back to new product development and new ideas in manufacturing,” Briggs said.

“That’s how we’ll create new jobs. In the future, companies will have to diversify.”

Reach Mike Carrels at (918) 684-2922 or mcarrels @muskogeephoenix.com.

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Outlook 2012

Improving services

Staff photo by Dylan Goforth

As night falls, Cassandra Gaines stands in front of the bright lights of the Roxy Theater in downtown Muskogee. Gaines, the theater’s director, said the theater presents an ideal destination for musicians. “We want it to be a big deal to be at the Roxy,” Gaines said. “We want it to be part of Muskogee’s identity, something that people think of when they think of our town.”

72103

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Outlook 2012 Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Page 8

ENTERTAINMENT

Roxy Theater looks and sounds great

By Dylan Goforth Phoenix Staff Writer

If you’re looking for a symbol of social progression in Muskogee, the Roxy Theater is a good place to start.

When the theater opened in 1948, Cassandra Gaines said, African-American patrons weren’t allowed inside its downtown Muskogee

doors. It closed in the ’60s and when it was remodeled and reopened in the ’90s, Gaines was named manager.

Now, the Roxy is a destination setting for area musicians and guests.

“We want it to be a big deal to be at the Roxy,” Gaines said. “We want it to be part of Muskogee’s iden-

tity, something that people think of when they think of our town.”

The theater is a 310-seat cozy piece of post-World War II architecture that’s hosted numerous acts from the area and state. On show nights, Roxy supervisor Troy Hicks illuminates downtown Muskogee with the theater’s bright neon

lights.

“People love the lights,” Hicks said. “That’s what people here really like to see is that Roxy neon.”

The lights promote the theater’s retro feel, something that’s apparent as soon as you walk in the doors. There’s no flashy LED concession board — just a popcorn machine and

mini fridge stocked with soft drinks. On show nights, Gaines and another worker man the stand, making sure everyone’s fed.

The stage is intimate, a 30-by-36-foot area located just a few steps from the seats. The walls, Hicks said, are “old and really, really (See GOAL, Page 9)

The Roxy Theater WHERE: 220 W. Okmulgee Ave. EMPLOYEES: Two. HOW LONG IN BUSINESS: 1948 until the 1960s. Reopened in the 1990s.

WEBSITE: http://muskogeechamber.org/53arts_en tertainment.html PHONE: (918) 6846362.

BUSINESS/INDUSTRY

Improvements on tap at Davis Field

By Cathy Spaulding Phoenix Staff Writer

One early February day, Davis Field Airport handled 43 plane landings and takeoffs.

Airport Manager Garry Lynn considers that moderate traffic.

The 1,622-acre airport, five miles south of downtown Muskogee, averages 7,000 to 8,000 flights a year.

The city-owned airport serves corporate jets, private planes and military aircraft. Lynn said the airport serves planes with Georgia-Pacific, Dillard’s and various auto dealerships.

“Some of our guests have included Barry Switzer and the race car drivers Jimmy Johnson and Richard Petty,” Lynn said.

The airport’s outlook appears better than in previous years, Lynn said.

“A year ago, with aviation depressed because of the economy and high fuel prices, our hangars were at 65 to 70 percent occupancy,” Lynn said. “We’re at 100 percent occupancy now.”

Recent renovations and upcoming major projects could make that outlook even brighter.

In 2010, the airport improved a deteriorating 4,500-foot runway by clearing broken concrete from the sides and installing edge lights on the taxiway. The runway also got freshly-painted numbers and precision markings to guide incoming aircraft.

Lynn also is proud of a recently-installed self-service gas pump, which enables pilots to fill their planes any time of day or night.

“The pump helps us remain competitive with our fuel prices by being open 24 hours,” Lynn said. “Before, it would be 5 p.m., and we’re done. Now, the pilot puts the credit card in the slot and pumps work just like that.”

The airport is looking forward to a busy year of major construction projects in 2012.

The airport could have a new terminal by Thanksgiving.

The current terminal, attached to an aircraft repair garage, features a small lobby/waiting area, offices and lounge/conference area in back.

The new 4,800-squarefoot terminal will feature a vestibule with restrooms open 24 hours a day. Pilots will be able to plan flights in one room or take a break in a pilot’s lounge.

“If a corporate jet comes in, we’ll have a crew waiting area,” Lynn said. “If the corporate executives are running short of time, they can meet here in a conference area.”

The $1 million terminal will be financed with tax revenue dedicated for airport improvements, a $275,000 grant from the City of Muskogee Foundation and matching funds from the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission. Lynn said the state can come up with $500,000 in matching funds for the airport.

Designs for the terminal have been drawn up, and airport officials are currently processing bids, Lynn said.

Another project set to begin this spring is rehabilita-

Staff photos by Cathy Spaulding

One of the recent improvements at Davis Field Airport is a renovated runway complete with edge lights on the taxiway. The runway also got freshly-painted numbers and precision markings to guide incoming aircraft.

tion of the main taxiway, he said.

“We’re in the design phase now, and we have not decided whether to replace the surface or do an asphalt overlay,” Lynn said. “The engineering estimate is $20 million.”

The taxiway, which is 75 feet by 7,200 feet, is deteriorating, Lynn said. He held up a bucket of rocks to show how many rocks he collects each day from the taxiway. Jets could suck the rocks into their engines, he said.

Future improvements include renovation of a hangar that dates to 1943, when Davis Field was a military operation, Lynn said.

“We are looking for a funding source,” he said.

The airport also is look-

Davis Field Airport WHERE: 1201 Sabre St., south of Muskogee.

EMPLOYEES: Garry Lynn, manager. Some seasonal employees.

HOW LONG IN BUSINESS: 69 years.

PHONE: (918) 577-8966.

ing for someone to use a vacant armory north of the field.

“We have a lot of big projects and a lot of housekeeping going on,” Lynn said.

“Being the front door to the city for the aviation world, we want to put our best foot forward.”

Reach Cathy Spaulding at (918) 684-2928 or Nathan Stephens, avionics manager with Davis Field Aviation removes the front of cspaulding@muskogee an airplane inside a repair garage at Davis Field Airport. The airport handles 7,000 to phoenix.com.

8,000 flights a year.

Muskogee Phoenix

Outlook 2012

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Page 9

Goal is to make Roxy ‘one-of-a-kind’ place, theater manager says Continued from Page 8

thick,” which provides a great acoustic setting.

“The entire building is really acoustical,” Hicks said.

“It’s one of the reasons people love to play here, because it sounds so great.”

The walls serve another purpose, too.

“They’re so thick, we could set up and jam right now,” Hicks said. “And the lawyer that works next door wouldn’t hear a thing.”

The setting, Hicks said, is preferred by bands.

Hicks said country music does particularly well at the Roxy, calling Muskogee “a real country town,” but Gaines said other acts do well, too.

“Of course, country does well here, but we do R & B and blues and jazz and

rock,” Gaines said. “We try to be really eclectic so we can have shows and things for everyone to enjoy.”

Gaines said aside from the theater acts and music shows the Roxy features, she’s looking into getting stand-up comedians to take the stage.

“We feel like we do so well with our music, and people know if we’re putting a show on that it will be good,” Gaines said. “But if we can start getting some stand-up in here, that would be an entirely different crowd that we could get in here.

“It’s something Muskogee doesn’t have right now that we think would make a big difference.”

Making the Roxy a “oneof-a-kind” place, Gaines said, is the goal. A big piece of that puzzle are the im-

personator artists that the Roxy specializes in.

“We have shows like Harley Hamm, who plays Stevie Ray Vaughn, or Johnny Rogers as Buddy Holly,” Gaines said. “People can come in and express themselves and take people back in time and really give them that experience of what it was like to see these musicians live.”

Hicks said part of the plan for the Roxy is to keep it as current and updated as possible while maintaining the homey, retro vibe.

“One of the things I’ve done is add more electric,” Hicks said. “Shows these days need so much electrical equipment that you have to keep up with that.”

Reach Dylan Goforth at (918) 684-2903 or dgoforth @muskogeephoenix.com.

Artists rendering

Center could draw doctors

By Cathy Spaulding Phoenix Staff Writer

A high-tech wellness center could help draw younger doctors to town, a Muskogee urologist said.

Dr. Jewell L. Daniels

said the center, now under construction, will be the Advanced Urology & Wellness Center, a 15,000square-foot center at 4200 W. Okmulgee Ave. The two-acre site, where Memorial Christian

Church used to be, also allows for a possible 5,000square-foot expansion, he said.

Construction of the $3 million building could be (See THE, 2A)

80926

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Outlook 2012

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Page 10

‘The biggest need in this area is to bring in younger doctors’ Continued from Page 1A

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this area is to bring in younger doctors to help the future of this community,” he said. “I decided if I wanted to bring in new doctors, we need a new building with all the nuts and bolts.”

Daniels, who has been in Muskogee for nine years, said the new facility could accommodate five doctors and a 15-person staff. He said he had been

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planning for the past three years.

He said the facility will have the latest technology.

“All records will be digitized and transportable to other hospitals,” Daniels said, adding that going digital would result in fewer mistakes.

“You’d have the records wherever you go, even have it on iPad,” he said.

Daniels said the new center will “put more emphasis on the wellness aspect of health, rather than the disease itself.”

“We’ll focus on prevention,” he said.

Daniels said the center’s focus will be more “surgically-oriented” in the beginning.

“Then we could bring in internal medicine,” he said.

Spade said the facility will include 12 exam rooms with semi-private restrooms, three blooddrawing stations, seven private offices, four private changing rooms, a private consultation office, two procedural and diagnostic rooms and two ultrasound rooms. The facility also will have a health and wellness retail center, packaged pharmacy and vending area, Spade said.

A grand entry leads into the waiting area, which will feature a 750-gallon aquarium, Spade said.

“The building design incorporates green features and energy-saving materials where economically practical,” Spade said.

Such features include geothermal heating and air conditioning, he said.

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

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Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Outlook 2012 Page 11

Staff photos by Mike Carrels

Tawny Easterling, left, and Micheal Rappe starred in Muskogee Little Theatre’s production of “Proof.” MLT is planning a new venue because the current facility is bursting at the seams. “In community theater, the guideline is to shoot for 35-40 percent of your ticket sales to be season ticket sales,” Wetz said. “The next guideline says, when you hit the magic 50 percent number, it’s time to expand.” MLT is sitting at 62 percent season ticket sales.

ENTERTAINMENT

MLT: The show must grow on Theater in ‘quiet phase’ of fundraising plan to build larger structure

By Dylan Goforth

not going to waste my money.’”

Thus,Wetz said, is the imThe Muskogee Little The- portance of the quiet phase.

“If we raise a bunch of atre has provided Muskogee with countless stunning per- money without the public formances in its almost 40 knowing, when that person thinks about donating, we years.

And, with a little hard can show him ‘This is how work and determination, the much we already have,’” Wetz said. “That makes it a best is yet to come.

“Proof,” a play about the more viable option for a padaughter of a recently de- tron to donate $20 or $100 ceased mathematician, just here or there.

“The rule of thumb is that wrapped its run. Now, MLT sets its sights on Sound of when you tell the public you’re ready, you want to Music — and beyond.

“We’re so excited about have 40 to 60 percent of the ‘The Sound of Music,’” MLT money already raised.”

The construcexecutive Coni tion is necessary Wetz said. “It’s for two reasons. going to be a fan- Muskogee Little Theatre For starters, the tastic show.”

WHERE: 324 E. building, while Short-term excozy and quaint, cellence is as- Cincinnati Ave. EMPLOYEES: is in rough shape. sured — Wetz And that might said the tryouts One. HOW LONG IN be putting it nicefor “The Sound of BUSINESS: 39 years. ly.

Music” were “off WEBSITE: “There’s a the charts good.” http://www.muskoroom in the back The long-term geelittletheatre.com/ outlook is bright, PHONE: (918) 816- that is literally splitting off from as well, as MLT 0688. the rest of the enters the “cultivation/quiet phase” of its building,” Wetz said.

The dressing rooms are, fundraising plan for a new well, nonexistent. A divider facility.

Wetz fawned over the con- blocks off a section of a room ceptual renderings for the so people can change clothes. new structure that will be With productions such as on the land where MLT “Beauty and the Beast” that presently sits. Even better, require upwards of 60 actors the new structure — which and crew, the quarters are would double the seating ca- cramped. Until a few years pacity to 250 — would in- ago, the downstairs lounge corporate the present-day area/changing room was just MLT building, blending the a hole in the ground.

“The basement was hand old and the new.

“The new building would dug,” Wetz said. “It still had allow us to do all kinds of a dirt floor. If you looked exciting things,” Wetz said. close at the walls, you could “It would have a beautiful see holes where animals had lobby that would allow us to been digging.”

Dr. Tim Holder poured cedo dinner theater or hold meetings or art exhibits. It’s ment and fixed that probalmost limitless in what we lem, but for a theatre as could do compared to now.” prestigious as MLT, a nice Wetz said the “quiet building is a must.

Which leads to the second phase” of the fundraising campaign means MLT is on reason for the upgrades. the lookout for potential big MLT is bursting at the donors. In 2010, MLT was seams.

“In community theater, granted $500,000 per year for three years from the City the guideline is to shoot for of Muskogee Foundation. 35-40 percent of your ticket MLT has to match the grant sales to be season ticket money,Wetz said, so support sales,” Wetz said. “The next guideline says, when you hit is necessary.

The reason for this phase, the magic 50 percent numWetz said, is to prove to ber, it’s time to expand.”

MLT is sitting at 62 perMuskogee and surrounding areas that MLT means busi- cent season ticket sales. The ness when it comes to the show, as they say, must go on. Wetz is working hard to future construction.

“We might have a show, ensure it does in a spectacuand someone might be here lar fashion.

“Muskogee deserves the and be thinking about donating a $100 bill,” Wetz best we can offer,”Wetz said. said. “But when he sees that “That’s what we’re shooting it will take $3 million or for.”

Reach Dylan Goforth at whatever to build the faciliTawny Easterling, left, and Amanda Dixon starred in Muskogee Little Theatre’s production of “Proof” in Februty, he might say,‘Well, they’re (918) 684-2903 or dgoforth ary. MLT Director Coni Wetz said MLT is in the quiet phase of its capital campaign to raise money for construction of a larger venue. never going to do it, so I’m @muskogeephoenix.com.

Phoenix Staff Writer

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Brian, the boys, and I all agreed to live out in the country, and sure enough we found the perfect house with the perfect shop for Brian and the boys to work in and store all their “projects”. Now we own our own house, live in the country with a great view, raising chickens, and all of us and our cat are very happy. I’m so glad that we finally sat down and got the courage to go in and take a chance. If not, we would still be paying more than we are now in rent for a smaller house that we did not own.

That was a step in life that we will never regret.”

The Miller Family

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President’s Statement - 2012 Throughout the 92 year history of our organization, the Muskogee Association of REALTORS has weathered various economic cycles. We are masters at our craft; our profession is unique and necessary. American’s have faced tough challenges in recent years. Unemployment and declining housing markets have been at the forefront in many geographical areas across our nation. Fortunately, Oklahomans have not been as severely affected in the area of real estate and our local community has experienced growth. We remain committed to servicing the real estate and lending needs of our citizens to further the American Dream of homeownership.

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Outlook 2012

Progressing services

Staff photo by Cathy Spaulding

Webbers Falls sophomore Levi Sims works out on a new cardio machine at Connors State College. New equipment is part of CSC’s wellness initiative. Through the wellness initiative, students and staff at Connors can take advantage of new exercise equipment and lockers at CSC’s Warner campus, CSC President Dr. Timothy Faltyn said.

Students and staff also can take advantage of Muskogee Swim and Fitness, he said.

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Outlook 2012

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Muskogee Phoenix

Page 14

Staff photo by Cathy Spaulding

Connors State College President Dr. Timothy Faltyn shows some of the new panels detailing Connors’ history. The panels are being installed in the Administration Building lobby at the Warner campus.

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Connors State College sophomore Levi Sims of Webbers Falls found a sunny place to work out — a new cardio stepper in the CSC gym.

“The old ones were getting kind of rusty,” said Sims, who is seeking an engineering degree.

As he counts his steps on the stepping machine, Sims takes advantage of a new wellness initiative at Connors State College.

Under the wellness initiative, students and staff at Connors can take ad80796

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• West Campus, 2400 W. Shawnee Bypass, on Northeastern State University Muskogee campus.

• Three Rivers Port Campus, 2501 N. 41st St. E., Muskogee.

PRESIDENT: Dr. Tim Faltyn.

KEY PERSONNEL: Vice president of Academic Affairs, Jo Lynn Digranes; Vice president of Enrollment Management and Student Services, Dr. Ron Ramming; Vice president of Fiscal Affairs (interim) Shirley Twilley; Director of College and Community, Lyndsey Sullivan; Director of the Development Foundation, Ryan Blanton; Director of Muskogee Branch Campuses, Rhoda Strode.

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 196 (full-time) ENROLLMENT: 2,561 ANNUAL BUDGET: $12,219,322.

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vantage of new exercise equipment and lockers at CSC’s Warner campus, CSC president Dr. Timothy Faltyn said. Students and staff also can take advantage of Muskogee Swim and Fitness, he said.

The wellness initiative is not the only sign of Connors State College’s healthy approach to education.

Faltyn, who became CSC president last July, said he wants Connors to help Muskogee be a hub for health care services.

Faltyn said he envisions a facility where students can learn various levels of nursing, as well as different areas of allied health such as home health care or occupational therapy.

The building, now only a dream, would take years to plan.

However, Faltyn said, Connors already has health care programs in place to help make the dream come true.

“We added four new allied health degrees —

Meet Dr. Timothy Faltyn

WHO: Dr. Timothy Faltyn.

OCCUPATION: President of Connors State College.

BORN: Oct. 25, 1970, Los Lunas, N.M. EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s degree, University of Central Oklahoma, Master of Education, UCO, Ed.D, in Higher Education Administration.

FAMILY: Wife, Kelly.

Baby on the way.

HOBBIES: Ranching, hunting, reading.

Q&A

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST CAREER ACCOMPLISHMENT? “Leading Connors State College into our second century.”

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO READ? “Spy novels and historical biographies of leaders.”

AS A CHILD, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? “Motocross champion.”

Faltyn was a motocross champion in New Mexico, 1975-84 and 1986.

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? “Outdoors and winning.”

WHAT IS YOUR NEXT BIG PROJECT? “Nursing/Allied Health Initiative in Muskogee and Legacy Hall in Warner.”

DO YOU HAVE A MENTOR WHO INFLUENCED YOUR LIFE, AND IF SO, WHO? I’ve had several mentors in my life — coaches, bosses. There are mentors who are like angels. Also, Theodore Roosevelt, he treated people with dignity and stressed the strenuous life.”

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS PROFESSION? “I believe God blessed me with a heart of service, and this job is an honorable and effective way of fulfilling that calling.”

Muskogee Phoenix

Outlook 2012

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Page 15

CSC adds four allied health degrees Continued from Page 14

research program in wildlife.

“We are developing wetlands for waterfowl use, which, in turn will offer chances for students to become proficient in water-

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He said he has a great working relationship with Northeastern State University and Indian Capital Technology Center.

Connors also is moving forward by honoring its past.

A lobby in the Warner campus’ library and administration building is being turned into a Legacy Hall, Faltyn said.

The college, which celebrated its 100th birthday in 2008, is preparing a coffee table book documenting the first 100 years.

The history is being summarized in 10 panels going up in the lobby, Faltyn said. Lyndsey Sullivan, CSC director of college and community relations, designed the panels.

In Muskogee, Connors showed its progress by moving west.

CSC students started the spring semester at CSC’s new west campus, 2400 W. Shawnee Bypass.

Connors shares the campus and other facilities with the Northeastern State University’s Muskogee campus.

A new 10,000 squarefoot facility, snugly fit between two existing NSU structures, includes a 2,300-square-foot library, instructors’ offices and a bookstore. CSC will share the bookstore and library with NSU. NSU, meanwhile, is renovating the campus’ old library and bookstore into enrollment and financial aid offices.

Faltyn said he also sees opportunities at the east campus, 2501 N. 41st St. E. Though small, the east campus has the largest enrollment of the three sites.

“We plan to be a regional leader in wildlife education,” said Connors biology instructor Dr. Stuart Woods. “New wildlife courses are already in

place.”

Woods said Connors is working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service to develop an undergraduate

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80675

80685

Voted Muskogee’s Best

Hometown Hospice

2303 S. York Muskogee, OK 74403 918-682-6400

72041

Muskogee’s Oldest Locally Owned Hospice, Providing Excellent Care Since 1996.

A special kind of caring for persons with life-limiting illnesses, and their families.

918-681-4440

Available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Call us today 2307 S. York • Muskogee

1122 N Main Muskogee, OK 74401

918-681-4988

www.goodneighborhospice.com

“Providing comfort and compassion for the terminally ill and their families from the people you know and trust.”

NURSING HOMES

DOGWOOD CREEK

COUNTRY GARDENS Assisted Living Community

SERVING THOSE WHO SERVED US

BROADWAY MANOR FORT GIBSON EASTGATE VILLAGE HEALTH CARE CENTER NURSING HOME RETIREMENT CENTER 1622 E. Broadway

Patient admission and services are provided without regard to race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability (mental or physical), communicable disease, or place of national origin.

GRACE LIVING CENTER

WAGONER CARE CENTER

HOME HEALTH, HOSPICE & HOSPITAL GOOD NEIGHBOR HOSPICE

Hometown PROFESSIONAL Hospice HOME HOSPICE 80698

1320 Mill St., Suite 128 Muskogee, OK 74401 918-683-9400

201 W. Okmulgee Checotah, OK 74426 918-473-0505

105 Mimosa Tahlequah, OK 74464 918-456-6851

80718

80705

820 North Main Muskogee, OK 74401 918-681-3800

928 N. York Muskogee, OK 74403 918-683-7113

80704

OKLAHOMA HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS

1145 N. Main Muskogee, OK 74401 918-682-3800

80717

2303 S. York Muskogee, OK 74403 918-682-6400

80703

GOOD SHEPHERD SOONER HEALTH HOSPICE SERVICE

OUTREACH HOME SERVICES

Richard Coleman-Director, Janie Dunlap-HHA, Terrel Moreland-HHA, Rosetta Lambrech-On Call, Kristee Vanblaricom-PCM, Pamela Dodd-Administrative Assistant, Tiffany Puckett-CM, Jill Syfert-Marketer, Tiffany Savage-HHA, Shannon Morgan-Chaplan, Lisa Wright Pearce-CM, Catherine Smith-CM, Kelly Smith-Triage, and David Vann-Social Worker.

2307 S. York Street Muskogee, OK 74403 918-681-4440

80695

1122 N. Main Muskogee, OK 74401 918-681-4988

80701

1145 N. Main Street Muskogee, OK 74401 918-682-3800 918-682-3815 fax

503 S. Main Gore, OK 74435 918-489-2299

80694

At Good Shepherd Hospice, we believe that healthcare is more than just a diagnosis and a treatment.

It’s a daily exercise in making this moment... this today... the very best it can be. And we’re here to help you achieve that goal – physically, mentally, spiritually... and for whatever that means individually.

80716

Compassionate about care. ~ PASSIONATE ABOUT LIFE.

Hwy 64 E. Warner, OK 74469 918-463-5143

80720

80693

COUNTRYSIDE ESTATES

GORE NURSING CENTER

80678

GENERATION AFTER GENERATION....

CARING FOR OUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS AT HOME IS A PROUD FAMILY TRADITION.

205 N. Lincoln Avenue Wagoner, OK 74467 918-485-2203

80702

80700

4717 W. Okmulgee Muskogee, OK 74401 918-683-2914

321 SE 2nd Checotah, OK 74426 918-473-2251

80699

500 S. York St. Muskogee, OK 74403 918-682-6724

80697

Located In McAlester, Poteau, Morris, Park Hill, Red Oak and Porum

YORK MANOR CHECOTAH NURSING HOME NURSING CENTER

841 N. 38th Street Muskogee, OK 74401 918-683-8070

80687

TRADITIONS HOME CARE, INC

3500 Haskell Blvd.

Muskogee, OK 74403 918-682-3191

80691

80690

72047

BRENTWOOD EXTENDED CARE & REHAB

205 E. Poplar Fort Gibson, OK 74434 918-478-2456

80689

Muskogee, OK 74403 918-683-2851

Serving Northeastern Oklahoma Locally Owned and Operated by Robert and Jennifer Gaddy and Cindy Johnson.

1120 Illinois St. Muskogee, OK 74403 918-682-5391

80688

80710

615 S. Co. Club Rd. Muskogee, OK 74403 918-686-8100

80696

3230 E. Shawnee Rd. Muskogee, OK 74403 918-683-5100

PLEASANT VALLEY HEALTH CARE CENTER

80733

Muskogee Phoenix

Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012

Outlook 2012 Page 17

Staff photos by D.E. Smoot

Eufaula Mayor Selina Jayne-Dornan checks her email from her office at City Hall. Jayne-Dornan said as the city turns 140 this year, she sees “a lot of pride in our community coming back, a lot of interest among our citizens in making the improvements that are needed.”

GOVERNMENT

Eufaula moves forward in milestone year

By D.E. Smoot

City of Eufaula

Phoenix Staff Writer

EUFAULA — This city of nearly 3,000, nestled between the arms of the North and South Canadian rivers on Lake Eufaula, turns 140 years old this year.

The event marks a milestone in the history of the county seat of McIntosh County. City leaders are taking the opportunity to reflect on the community’s past and plan for its future.

“I see a lot of pride in our community coming back, a lot of interest among our citizens in making the improvements that are needed,” Mayor Selina JayneDornan said. “We are starting to look down the road toward our future.”

Jayne-Dornan, who took office in June after a judge invalidated the results of a tight election in April and ordered a second election, said the first few months of her first term as mayor have been spent dealing with emergencies.

The city’s new mayor successfully pushed for a halfcent sales tax extension in November to fund improvements at the wastewater treatment plant. The facility is operating at — or near — capacity under a consent order issued by the state Department of Environmental Quality.

Jayne-Dornan said funding is being nailed down for the $4 million wastewater treatment plant expansion and the replacement or repair of some sewer lines.

“It’s been challenging,” Jayne-Dornan said. “At the beginning (of my term) there were a lot of things had to be taken care of immediately.”

Besides those immediate needs, Jayne-Dornan said the city has created several committees to address other areas where she sees room for improvement. She and other civic leaders also have been working with business owners, asking for their input on what is needed to make Eufaula a more attractive place to live and visit.

Some projects in the planning stage, Jayne-Dornan said, include improvements for city streets, parks and the airport. Projects beyond

POPULATION: 2,813.

MUNICIPAL BUILDING: City Hall, 64 Memorial Road.

HOURS: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

MAYOR: Selina Jayne-Dornan.

KEY PERSONNEL: City Clerk-Treasurer Donna Hysell.

NUMBER OF CITY EMPLOYEES: 35.

BUDGET FOR 2011-2012: Total appropriations of $5,651,416.

PHONE: (918) 689-2534.

ETC.: www.cityofeufaulaok.com.

Trackhoes clear a path for a new sewer line that is being replaced near Eufaula Cove. The city of Eufaula is preparing to expand its wastewater treatment plant to bring it into compliance with state and federal regulations. The installation of new sewer lines is part of the infrastructural improvements being made.

the planning stage include the nearly completed enhanced 911 emergency call center, a new animal shelter, a recycling program, and

the development of 34 single-family homes for income-qualified residents.

“If everything goes as planned, they should be

able to start construction of those homes late this year or early next year,” JayneDornan said of the development planned just north of

Lakehurst Senior Living Center west of downtown Eufaula.

Jayne-Dornan said the armory building, which will

convert to the city once the environmental clean-up is completed, is being used temporarily as a community recreation center. The facility is available for residents who want to play basketball or have a place to walk during inclement weather.

“We’re trying to promote good health and encourage recreation,” Jayne-Dornan said. “People are starting to take advantage of that.”

To celebrate Eufaula’s 140th year, Jayne-Dornan said the city will expand its annual offering of summertime events to include a springtime festival. The city’s inaugural Heritage Days Festival will be April 21 and feature a parade, street dance, and a wide variety of old-fashioned games and activities, and “hometown fun.”

As far as new jobs go, Jayne-Dornan said she presently anticipates no new businesses, but efforts are being made to expand tourism. The mayor said the city also hired a grant consultant to help find money available for future projects.

According to U.S. Census Bureau redistricting data, Eufaula’s population grew 6.6 percent during the past 10 years. In 2010, census data show 2,813 residents lived in Eufaula, up 174 from the 2,639 people who lived there in 2000.

The city had 1,552 housing units with a 75.8 percent occupancy rate. About 7 percent of the housing stock is vacant because of seasonal or recreational use. About 46 percent of the city’s housing stock is owner-occupied.

Reach D.E. Smoot at (918) 684-2901 or dsmoot @muskogeephoenix.com.

80735

NURSING HOME & ASSISTED LIVING YORK MANOR NURSING CENTER

York Manor is a non-profit long term care and rehabilitation center. We are proud to say CMS has awarded us a “FIVE STAR RATING.” We provide the finest nursing services, respite, hospice care and quality therapy. Our passion is to treat our residents with respect and dignity they deserve.

4717 W. Okmulgee • Muskogee 683-2914

Wagoner Care Center

Join Our Team of Professionals!

500 SOUTH YORK • 682-6724 Kathy Black, Administrator

MEDICARE CERTIFIED NURSING AND REHABILITATION

Is a care facility that provides medical nursing service. Also, Wagoner Care Center is a skilled nursing facility providing skilled nursing care and related services for residents who require nursing care.

Martha Smith, RN, DON

MEMORIAL HEIGHTS NURSING CENTER

• State registered nurse supervision • Private/Semi private rooms with bath • Private telephone connections • Central nursing station • Laundry service • Whirlpool baths• Religious services • TV hookup in each room • Special diets • Physical, speech, respiratory & occupational therapy • Beauty Shop

Idabel • 580-286-3366

MCCURTAIN MANOR

Wagoner Care Center now has a specialized unit meeting Alzheimer’s patient needs.

Broken Bow • 580-584-9158

We Provide Hospice Care

Wagoner Care Center

“Continuing the Celebration of Life” Check our employment opportunities

80666

72045

BRENTWOOD EXTENDED CARE AND REHAB

MUSKOGEE’S RETIREMENT CENTER A Residence For All Ages

Long Term Care Facility With Skilled Nursing THERAPY Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and Mental Health Services

New Retirement Apartments Now Medicare Approved • State Registered Nurse Supervisor • Private/Semi Private Rooms W/Bath • Private Telephone Connections • Special Diets • Activity Programs & Van • Laundry Service • Whirlpool Baths • Religious Services • Physical, Speech & Occupational Therapy • Barber & Beauty Shop

At Home Atmosphere • Caring Staff 841 N. 38th Street, Muskogee, OK 74401

918-683-8070

918-683-5100 “At Dogwood Creek there is always a delightful way of life with your well being our primary concern.”

1120 Illinois • Muskogee 72031

HEALTH CARE CENTER

B ROADWAY M ANOR

One or two bedroom suite, Three meals a day, Kitchenette in each apartment, Weekly maid service, 24-hour staffing, Smoke detectors - fully sprinklered, Emergency call buttons, Full recreational, cultural and social activity programs, Located in a beautiful quiet wooded residential area.

80708

FT. GIBSON NURSING HOME

Health Care Center

1622 E. Broadway • Muskogee, OK 74403

◆ Skilled Units ◆ Special Diets ◆ Religious Services ◆ Whirlpool Baths ◆ Physical, Speech, Occupational Therapy

• Locally Owned & Operated • Over 40 Years Experience in Nursing Homes

“Leaders in Quality Care” • Supervised by a Registered Nurse 24 Hours A Day • Private & Semi-Private Rooms • Medicare Skilled UnitMedicaid Accepted • Hospice Contract

◆ 24 Hour Licensed Nursing Care ◆ Beauty/Barber Shop ◆ Free Cable TV ◆ Activity Van ◆ 24 Hour Physician Service

SENIOR CITIZEN’S APARTMENTS Medicare/Medicaid/Private

478-2456 205 E. Poplar • Ft. Gibson 72029

72030

918-683-2851 admin@broadwaymanorhealthcare.com

72032

3230 East Shawnee, Muskogee, OK 74403

918-682-5391

PLEASANT VALLEY

72038

205 North Lincoln 918-485-2203 Sue Mooney, Administrator Visitors Always Welcome

www.gracelivingcenters.com

Check With Us For All Your Employment Needs

EASTGATE V ILLAGE HEALTHCARE CENTER 3500 Haskell Blvd.

• 682-3191 (N. Country Club & Haskell Blvd.)

Caring for Generations Through Excellence Eastgate Village Healthcare Center is locally owned and operated with over 50 years of Experience, having proudly earned a Reputation for Quality and Excellence.We are Dedicated to providing Quality Care and Services in a warm, loving environment by People who care to give the very best.

Country Gardens is a 48 unit apartment located on 10 beautiful landscaped acres in Muskogee, OK. Country Gardens has a group of caring, long term professionals that are just waiting to go that extra mile for you.

80570

611 S. Country Club Road Muskogee, OK 74403 – 918-686-8100

QUALITY CARE & SERVICES • Rehab Services • Medicare Unit • Hospice Care • Church Services • Laundry Services • Nutritional Services • Planned by a Registered Dietitian We are searching for the BEST of the BEST nursing professionals to become a part of our family.We offer a great working environment with support from our entire team of professionals. Benefits and wages are very competitive. Please come by and visit us about a new job opportunity.

Checotah Nursing Center now offers spacious, newly redecorated rooms with private bath. We offer in-house physical, occupational and speech therapy. We offer specialized nursing and hospice & respite care.

Choosing an alternative home for your loved one is not an easy task, and we are here to help. Please come by for a tour, we would be happy to answer your questions.

Caring for Generations Through Excellence 72028

80667