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ONE OF A KIND
COLORFUL INSPIRATION
Muskogee is
The regional retail hub One of the top 10 most affordable cities Oklahomas capital for motorcycle tourism
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Livin Right.
Bein Free.
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Home of a castle, a submarine and the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame Home to the International Port of Muskogee One of the states largest manufacturing cities
Tourism Information:
M uskogee
CONTENTS
Muskogee
2014 EDITION
VOLUME 9
OKLAHOMA
9 Welcome to Muskogee
An introduction to the community
Things to Do
12 Attractions One of a Kind
People, attractions and dining showcase citys unique flair
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CONTENTS
28
Living
Citys leaders taking AIM at improving Muskogees quality of life
Business
Muskogee: A regional center for manufacturing
48 Economic Profile
37 Community Profile
All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste. PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
s bring door activite first-rate out families to the area sportsmen and
One Of a Kind
MUSKOGee by GReaTeR
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Greg Gaither Financial Advisor 600 Emporia, Suite D Muskogee, OK 74401 918-687-4786
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History Index
MORE ON MUSKOGEE Go to the links below for more articles and photos about Muskogees business climate, recreation, food, schools, health care, culture and more. TOP EMPLOYERS livability.com/muskogee/ ok/business DEMOGRAPHICS livability.com/muskogee/ ok/facts SCHOOLS livability.com/muskogee/ ok/schools HEALTHCARE livability.com/muskogee/ ok/health NEIGHBORHOODS livability.com/muskogee/ ok/living ATTRACTIONS livability.com/muskogee/ ok/attractions FOOD livability.com/muskogee/ ok/food
Muskogee residents proudly showcase their heritage. See more historical attractions at livability.com/muskogee/ok/ attractions.
Photos
DONT MISS A THING See Muskogee and more great images from around the area. livability.com/muskogee/ok/ photos-videos
Music
TAKE A TOUR See whos inducted in the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. livability.com/muskogee/ok/ attractions
LOVE MUSKOGEE? Share the digital version of this magazine, or grab a widget and post it on your site or blog. livability.com/muskogee/ok/ magazine
Livability.com/muskogee is a part of Livability.com, a collection of Americas best places to live & visit livability.com @livability facebook/livability
AT A GLANCE
Muskogee, OK
A QUICK, COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF WHATS GREAT ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
A crossroads of culture, commerce and lifestyles, Muskogee evokes a sense of pride in residents. Viewed by many as a burly, bootstrapping place, this town brought together cowboys and Indians, outlaws and lawmen, even hippies and manly men. Okie Nation is a place where its hip to be real, and theres no better place to be real than Muskogee. REAL FUN The citys festivals reflect residents fun-loving nature. Events like the Soul Food CookOff, Bare Bones Film Festival and Cardboard Boat Regatta unify the town in the pursuit of a good time. Parks, lakes, and golf courses provide opportunities for adventures, while theaters, casinos and restaurants create a sophisticated and entertaining atmosphere. Attractions such as the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and the USS Batfish submarine honor the past. REAL BUSINESS Muskogee businesses command access to major markets throughout North America. Located near three highways, Interstate 40 and three major rivers, Muskogee is strategically placed for trade. An educated and motivated workforce provides well-trained employees to a variety of companies. More than 220,000 people live within a 30-minute drive of the city, and local businesses report that 60 percent of sales are made to people who live outside the city limits. REAL ORIGINAL Muskogees historic homes and buildings remain treasured pieces of the past, yet they hold modern restaurants and stores. In Muskogee, Native American traditions are celebrated, individualism is applauded and creativity is cherished.
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MUSKOGEE COUNTY
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Muskogee
LOCATION
Muskogee is in northeastern Oklahoma, about 50 miles southeast of Tulsa and 50 miles west of the Oklahoma-Arkansas state line.
POPULATION
38,981
DISTANCES TO THREE MAJOR CITIES NEARBY
Oklahoma City, Ok., 140 miles Little Rock, Ark., 227 miles Dallas, Tx., 234 miles
TIME ZONE
Central
ANNUAL RAINFALL
43
National Average: 30
ACCOLADE
Bare Bones Film Festival named one of the Top 10 Film Festivals by Livability.com
THINGS TO DO
Muskogees must-do attractions, activities and dining
Grab your fishing pole and reel in a catch at Three Forks Harbor & Marina. The River Center, a 10,000square-foot multipurpose venue hosts an array of community and private events, including fishing tournaments.
Motorcycling
History
Water Park
Theater
CATCH A SHOW
Mosey into downtown Muskogee for a film festival, live concert or play at the Roxy Theater. The building first opened in 1946 and retains an old-Hollywood feel with art deco glass and tile. The exterior features a 1940s neon sign.
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THINGS TO DO
Break a Leg
Make plans to attend performances at the Muskogee Little Theatre, whose troupe has presented plays since 1980. Each season begins in July and includes three to seven plays, plus a Young Actors Studio and Kids Summer Camp.
Volleyball
Festival
Outdoor Activities
Racing
GET FILTHY
Wear very casual clothing if you choose to participate in the raucous Mudstock, a mud volleyball tournament held in Muskogee each summer. Volleyball teams compete in 2 feet of soft, sticky mud to raise money for charities.
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THINGS TO DO
One of aKind
P
PEOPLE, ATTRACTIONS AND DINING, SHOWCASE CITYS UNIQUE FLAIR
eople who visit Muskogee often try to take a little piece of it home with them. From unique attractions to one-of-a-kind dining, Muskogees charms cant be found anywhere else.
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Actors such as Jonita Mullins from the Bass Reeves Legacy Troupe perform stories highlighting local icons including Bass Reeves and Alice Robertson.
BASS REEVES LEGACY TROUPE For starters, everyone here is justifiably proud of the citys heritage. So much so, that one group works regularly to keep Muskogees history very much a part of its present. The Bass Reeves Legacy Troupe tells the story of Bass Reeves, the first African-American U.S. deputy marshal who lived and worked west of the Mississippi, and eventually served in the citys police department until his death in 1910. The troupe also highlights other trailblazing locals, such as Alice Robertson, Oklahomas first U.S. Congresswoman, says troupe member Jonita Mullins. It fulfills a passion of mine,
which is sharing Oklahomas great history, Mullins says. We enjoy telling these stories, so that more people can learn about who these people were, and how many of them came to be world renown. USS BATFISH Muskogee is proud to honor its servicemen and women at War Memorial Park, and there youll find a submarine? Yes, the parks home to the USS Batfish, launched in 1943 and holder of multiple awards and citations, as well as more memorabilia and history in the nearby museum and 8 acres of parkland. It does surprise people that its
It does surprise people that its here, and its not a little one. Its 300 feet long, and we offer self-guided tours through the submarine itself, as well as through our museum and the grounds.
RICK DENNIS, PARK MANAGER OF THE BATFISH
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SNAPSHOT
here, and its not a little one, says Park Manager Rick Dennis of the Batfish. Its 300 feet long, and we offer self-guided tours through the submarine itself, as well as through our museum and the grounds. ONE-OF-A-KIND DINING Then theres Muskogees restaurant scene, which quickly demonstrates why this is a very good place to be hungry. Take Pauls Diner, where youll find the famous trashcan scrambles: bacon, sausage, hash browns, eggs, cheese, gravy and more, all scrambled together for a taste that brings people back again and again. If that doesnt fill you up, stroll on over to Chets, where the addictive hot dogs and fixings have remained unchanged since the 1950s. Have room for more? Then dont miss the white sauce at Hamlins El Toro. Its so good that a Google search turns up
famous Pauls Diner ser ves its h gravy. wit s ble am scr an trashc
ACCOLADE
Muskogee was named one of 12 Distinctive Destinations for 2011 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation
several recipes that claim to be almost it. But theyre not, because the ingredients have been a closely held secret for more than 40 years, says Darren Kilpatrick, owner. It was an accident, he says. They were trying to make a new salad dressing and were testing it on chips. They didnt like it for salads, but it was great on chips, so thats how it was born. As for efforts to copy the sauce, Kilpatrick says let em try. Everybody thinks they have the recipe, but they really dont, he says. Its very unique, and there are items in there you cant get out of the grocery store. You can kind of match it, but you cant get true to what it really is. That pretty much sums up Muskogee: You can copy it, but you cant duplicate it. by Joe Morris by staff photographer Michael Conti
The War Memorial Park and Museum in Muskogee honors the past by paying tribute to servicemen and women who served in World War II. The 300-foot USS Batfish is the parks main attraction, and visitors can take self-guided tours through the submarine and grounds. The park also features a museum that showcases other WWII submarines, memorabilia, photographs and artifacts. Visitors can also walk through a series of bronze stands honoring more than 3,500 sailors and 52 submarines that were lost during the war.
LIVING
Motorcycle enthusiasts and the Muskogee Chamber work to make the city a top destination for motorcycle tourism. Travelers can pick up the Ride Guide, which details the best places to ride.
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Fun in the
G
Sun
reen hills. Lakes. Winding roads. For Max Boydstun, theyre what make Muskogee a motorcycle heaven. But dont worry. Were not talking Marlon Brando and his wild bunch roaring into town intent on mayhem. Were talking tourism and fun.
Bikers enjoy touring the 122-acre Honor Heights Park to enjoy Muskogees natural beauty and landscapes.
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High-speed Entertainment
Rapidly gaining popularity, extreme dirt bike racing combines dirt bikes and Grand Prix style, with bikes going up to 90 miles per hour. In 2013, Muskogee hosted AMAs ATV Extreme Dirt Track National Championship Series.
MOTORCYCLING Some people still have that image of motorcyclists, but its as far from the truth as you can get, Boydstun, a self-identified blues singer, diamond dealer and Oklahoma banker, says about the motorcycle buffs who have made Muskogee a top destination. These are people with disposable incomes, who like to travel and like the freedom of a motorcycle. Its one of the last romantic ways to travel. Boydstun and the Muskogee chamber have led the way in supporting motorcycle tourism, even preparing an award-winning Ride Guide that details 750 miles of great motorcycling routes over twisty, beautiful roads motorcyclists love. ATV RACING Another wheel sport, extreme dirt track racing, is also building
a following. Combining elements of Grand Prix racing with dirt bike and ATV racing vehicles that reach speeds of 80 to 90 miles an hour on a dirt track full of turns and jumps. In May 2013, Muskogee hosted the American Motorcyclist Association ATV Extreme Dirt Track National Championship Series at Hatbox Field, where 250 to 300 racers from around the country competed before more than 1,000 spectators. Riders came from Washington State, Florida, the Carolinas, Virginia, you name it, says Dan Chepkauskus, a race supporter whose son and daughter both compete. There are only eight of these events in the country, so this is a big plus for Muskogee. FISHING Drawing big crowds and big-name anglers are the Muskogee areas five lakes and three rivers where fishermen can find
largemouth bass, spotted and white bass, crappie, and catfish. Bass, particularly, have helped boost Muskogees national reputation as a fishing spot. The citys Three Forks Harbor has been the site of the prestigious Bassmaster Elite and Open Series national fishing tournaments, which in 2010 brought crowds of more than 5,000 people a day to the harbor. People come here before the tournament to pre-fish and during the tournament to see their favorite anglers, says Treasure McKenzie of the Muskogee chamber. We love these events they give our local citizens a chance to get involved in something on a national level. MEETINGS AND REUNIONS Muskogees emergence as a place to have fun has boosted the citys convention and reunion business, McKenzie says. To compete with larger cities, the
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The citys waterways attract anglers from all over the country. Three Forks Harbor has hosted the Bassmaster Elite and Open Series national fishing tournaments.
chamber has honed its target market clubs, organizations and nonprofits and focuses on smaller meetings, weddings and reunions. Creativity is key. We offer welcome speeches by our mayor, personal tours of the community, goodie bags, honorary Okie from Muskogee plaques, welcoming messages on marquees, says McKenzie, recalling a Mysterious Women of Muskogee ghost tour for the Soroptimists and a Jimmy Buffett-themed convention of city managers, with invitations printed on flip-flops. We may not be Orlando, but we can do specialized things that will make them remember us for years. McKenzie says. by Laura Hill by staff photographer Michael Conti
Learn more about recreation in Muskogee at livability.com/ muskogee/ok/activities.
The Muskogee area is a hotbed for fishing and water recreation. Greenleaf Lake is one of the areas five lakes, stocked with fish such as bass and sunfish. Also on site, the Greenleaf State Park offers plenty of places to set up camp and relax, including 14 cabins.
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Take a Bite
DIVERSE LOCAL FLAVOR ENTICES FOOD LOVERS Restaurants in Muskogee showcase diverse menus, comfortable atmospheres and award-winning foods, all with great service and a smile.
Local Favorites Desserts
HOMESTYLE COOKING
At Club Lunch enjoy homestyle cooking off the menu, in the daily blue plate, from the lunch special, or at the hot steam table. Pauls Diner could be called a mood diner. In the mood for spaghetti? Goulash? Stew? Chili? Pauls has it. The restaurant even serves breakfast anytime. The Amish Country Store and Fudge Factory offers Amish artisan breads, cheeses, pies, jams and jellies, and more than 40 kinds of fudge. For 60 years, Chets hot dog joints Chets Dairy Freeze and Chets East have had Okies coming back for their famous chili dogs.
The Harmony House has been part of Muskogee for 20 years. Its very down- to-earth home cooking, and everything is made from scratch. This is a gem in Muskogee, and I hope it continues its tradition for 20 more years.
CHEFERY M., YELP.COM REVIEWER
Named Best Place for Lunch by The Muskogee Phoenix and praised in Southern Living magazine, Harmony Houses menu lists dishes like sour cream enchiladas and a tuna crunch sandwich.
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Ginos Italian Ristorante and Pizzeria is known for its homemade Italian bread and a variety of pastas, chicken, veal and seafood dishes. Chicken and sausage with bell peppers, ham, black olives, in a white wine cream sauce with a touch of marinara, all served over spaghetti is their specialty.
www.herringshaw.com
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Colorful Inspiration
ART SCENE CASTS A LASTING IMPRESSION Walk through the doors of the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame & Museum, and youre face to face with some of Muskogees favorite sons and daughters and some of the citys favorite art.
Parties and Events
SNAPSHOT
AL MEDIA, LLC
In 2013, Musko gee natives th e Swon Brothers bega n touring afte r placing third on NBCs The Voice.
Music
MUSICAL ROOTS
Artist Lance Hunter makes his own impact on the Muskogee art scene with a 12-foot-tall mural on the wall of the Gaddy Drug store. The work depicts a young waitress holding a tray with Coca-Cola, the Gaddy name and Quality You Can Trust.
Its absolutely wonderful, and were hoping we can have more murals like it downtown.
TREASURE MCKENZIE, MUSKOGEE CHAMBER
Before captivating a nationwide audience with their soulful harmonies on NBCs The Voice, the country duo of brothers Zach and Colton Swon sharpened their skills playing festivals, charity events and even birthday parties in Muskogee. The Swon Brothers, who grew up in Muskogee, started performing as a duo when Zach was 12 and Colton was 9. They say one of their best gigs was playing a sold-out show at the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame & Museum.
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NBC UNIVERS
Hall of Fame
When it comes to culture, Honor Heights Park is central, hosting everything from wine festivals and holiday light shows to flower trails and a new butterfly house. From Thanksgiving to New Years Day each year, the Garden of Lights turns the 122-acre park into a glittering fantasyland of more than 1 million lights of various colors. And in summer, visitors and residents alike flock to free Symphony in the Park performances.
for your business and helping you make real estate investments for your familys future.
Floral gardens and water features create a delightful place to walk and explore native plants. Visit the new butterfly house to see colorful, flittering butterflies that often land on outstretched arms.
Going Places
RESIDENTS CAN PLAY AT SEVERAL RECREATION FACILITIES Numerous recreational activities and attractions like a water park, walking trails, tennis facilities and a swim/fitness center give Muskogee residents plenty of ways to play and stay active.
City Parks
We offer memberships but also feature programs for non-members, such as open swimming on the weekends. The center can also be booked for party rentals and corporate functions.
BROOKE HALL, MUSKOGEE SWIM & FITNESS CENTER MANAGER
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Trails
Tennis
TENNIS FACILITIES
If tennis is your racket, public courts are available for free at Honor Heights Park, Rotary Park and Spaulding Park. Courts are fenced and can be used from dawn to dusk. By Kevin Litwin
Take the Kids to the River Country Family Water Park at Love-Hatbox Sports Complex
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, River Country Family Water Park opens its pools, slides, playgrounds, volleyball court and inner tube river to anyone looking to cool off at the complex. The water park has become an area attraction ideal for families with children. Smaller kids can splash around and explore at Crawdad Corner and Tugboat Beach.
LIVING
Schools, health care and neighborhoods in Muskogee
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Batter Up!
The Love-Hatbox Sports Complex hosts sports leagues and tournaments for baseball, softball, football and soccer. Visitors can also walk the 3.1-mile Cenntennial Trail or enjoy the Outdoor Skate Park. Check out a collection of photos that highlights Muskogees top spots and major attractions at livability.com/muskogee/ok/ photos-video.
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LIVING
CHANGE
CITY LEADERS TAKING AIM AT IMPROVING MUSKOGEES QUALITY OF LIFE
Agents of
ed by a passionate mayor and other movers and shakers in the community, Muskogee residents are taking action as never before to make their city a better place to live. Heres a look at four community leaders who are making a difference.
Mayor Bob Coburn works to unite the community and bring in new business.
THE MAYOR Bob Coburn was elected mayor of Muskogee in February 2012, but he has been an advocate for the city since re-establishing residence in his hometown back in 1983. Some 30 years after his return, Coburn is seeing a citizenry that is enthusiastic about transforming Muskogee. He especially noticed it during a series of community meetings held in 2012 to create the Action in Muskogee (AIM) initiative. More than 350 people came to multiple meetings. Ive never seen that kind of community involvement in the last 30 years Ive been back, so theres an obvious desire for change among our citizenry, says Coburn, who is particularly passionate about the prospects for development here. There is an excitement about retail and restaurant development in Muskogee, he says. We need to do things to create sales in our community, because the more successful we are in creating retail sales, the more successful we are in recruiting more restaurants.
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Stroll down Muskogees sidewalks to visit local boutiques and grab a bite to eat. Local officials and residents work together to attract new business while maintaining a small-town vibe.
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Residents can connect with local farmers at the Muskogee Farmers Market.
THE COACH Lisa Wade knows the numbers all too well when it comes to health and fitness in Muskogee. As founder and president of Empower Change, a consulting company that helps a variety of companies and organizations, she has her finger on the pulse of the community. Wade, a communications and public relations expert, founded the business in 2004. Shes a strong community activist who aims to enhance the quality of life in Muskogee. Were working to raise awareness and bring opportunities for people to choose healthier lifestyles, Wade says. She points to a health and wellness initiative she is helping to steer and its three guiding principles: eating better, moving more and becoming tobacco-free. The city is adding more bike lanes and walking tracks, and residents can also take part in community gardens. Were encouraging people to be more active, and were trying to improve access to healthier eating, Wade says. THE COLLEGE PRESIDENT The foundation for improving Muskogee as a whole comes through the AIM initiative, and heading that
up is Dr. Tim Faltyn, president of Connors State College. He is optimistic that AIM is exactly what the city has been aiming for in the last several years. Through a series of meetings, we figured out what the priorities are in our community and what we want to accomplish and, ultimately, what we want to be known for, Faltyn says. Out of that came eight initiatives. Those initiatives include educational excellence, safe and secure community, strong economy, community pride, clean and beautiful community, great place to live and visit, health and wellness, and community infrastructure. Similar efforts have been previously discussed, but nothing really got past the talking stage. It has been exciting, Faltyn says. There are a lot of people involved, and they come from all walks of life. THE NONPROFIT LEADER As executive director of the Nonprofit Resource Center, Kim Lynch leads a staff of dedicated individuals committed to making Muskogee a better place through a variety of initiatives. Its mission is to provide services, training and resources to help nonprofits meet
community needs. According to the Resource Centers vision statement, We envision a strong, cohesive nonprofit community composed of successful organizations that have the financial, professional and human resources to improve the community by successfully meeting their mission-driven goals. by John McBryde by staff photographer Michael Conti
Were working to raise awareness and bring opportunities for people to choose healthier lifestyles.
LISA WADE RAASH, PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER OF EMPOWER CHANGE
LIVIng
Change
City iMprovin Leaders taki ng aiM at g Muskogee s quaLity of Life
community, and are taking Muskogee residents a better place action as never before to leaders who to live. Heres a look at make their city four commu are making nity a difference.
The Mayor Bob Coburn was elected he has been mayor of Muskogee an in February his hometown advocate for the city since 2012, but back re-establish Some 30 years in 1983. ing residence in after his return, is enthusiast Coburn is seeing ic about transformi it during a a citizenry series of communit ng Muskogee. He especially that Action in Muskogee y meetings noticed held in 2012 multiple meetings. (AIM) initiative. to create the More than 350 people Ive never came to seen that kind years Ive been of community our citizenry, back, so theres an obvious involvement in the desire for change last 30 prospects for says Coburn, who is particularl development y passionate among here. There is an about the excitemen in Muskogee t about retail , and restaurant communit y, he says. We need to developme do things to because the nt create sales sales, the more more successful successful we are in creating in our we are in recruiting retail more restaurant s.
Agents of
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Stroll down g day Muskogee s sidewalks local boutiques to visit and grab a officials and bite residents work to eat. Local attract new business while together to a small-town maintainin g vibe.
schedule a
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movers
Mayor Bob Coburn unite the communit works to y and bring in new business.
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At the Swim and Fitness Center in Muskogee, those looking for a healthier lifestyle can work out by swimming, taking a spin, body sculpting or yoga class and joining a boot camp.
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LIVING: EDUCATION
Schools of Thought
From a school tailored for 4-year-olds to a college program that helps provide a workforce for the regions health-care industry, education in Muskogee is innovative, engaging and, most of all, a path to success. AN EARLY START With 20 classes and typically a waiting list each year, the Muskogee Public Schools districts Early Childhood Center has had a significant impact on area public schools since it opened in 1999. It features a structured academic curriculum and activities that promote social and language skills and physical development. We accomplish so much with the students that prepares them for kindergarten, says Malinda Lindsey, the schools principal.
Preschool students at the Early Childhood Center study a structured curriculum that supports personal development, both mentally and physically, while encouraging hands-on learning and exploration.
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Connors State offers scholarships to students looking to join the growing health-care industry.
OTHER COLLEGES
Muskogee residents have more options for higher education, including these schools: Northeastern State University Indian Capital Technology Center Bacone College
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LIVING: HEALTH
Challenge Accepted
The St. Joseph Outdoor Fitness Center gives residents of all ages access to an asphalt track, exercise equipment and playgrounds in hopes of promoting healthy lifestyles and increasing awareness.
Doctors Orders
St. Joseph Catholic School elementary teacher Kelly Watson wanted to help make students and her community more healthy, so she applied for a Muskogee Foundation grant in late 2012 to have an outdoor public fitness area constructed at St. Joseph. Today, a quarter-mile asphalt track is in place at the pre-K through grade 8 school, as well as accompanying playground exercise equipment stations for elementary and middle school students. I wanted the exercise facility on our property to be used by our students and teachers, but it is also open to the entire community during non-school hours and throughout the summer, says Watson, who teaches physical education along with health and
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The Doughboy statue at the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center greets visitors and honors World War I veterans and Native Americans who lost their lives during the war.
provides a comprehensive range of medical services. EASTAR main campus, a 329bed Level III-certified trauma center, maintains a staff who can treat almost any medical condition right here in Muskogee. Services at EASTAR include cardiology, oncology, pediatrics, and diagnostic procedures like MRI, ultrasound, mammography, radiology and exploratory surgeries. The surgical wing features eight advanced operating suites. The EASTAR East campus has 45 beds and was the first hospital in the nation to earn LEED-Gold certification for new construction. by Kevin Litwin
Learn more about Muskogees hospitals and health-care centers at livability.com/muskogee/ ok/health.
Every step you take in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure helps raise vital funds for the fight against breast cancer. But dont let your journey stop there. Take a step toward improving your own health by educating yourself about the disease and getting regular screenings. Step by step, this Race will be won. Learn more about the Komen Race for the Cure by visiting www.komen.org or calling 1-877 GO KOMEN.
This space is provided as a public service. 2008 Susan G. Komen for the Cure
www.gcbhs.org
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COMMUNITY PROFILE
ETHNICITY
15% 25% White Black Hispanic Other
COST OF LIVING
$33,196
Median Household Income
$86,000
Median Home Price 56%
60% 15%
13%
$543
Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment
AGE
17 and Under 18-64 65 and Over
(percentages based on the total = 38,981
16%
TRANSPORTATION
Median Travel Time to Work
TEMPERATURE
January Average Low July Average High
93.1 76
16 minutes
25.2
31
51 miles
www.a-avanti.com
121 N. Country Club Rd. Muskogee, OK 74403 (918) 686-8839
EAST
WEST
WAGONER
MUSKOGEE*
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Specializing in: Hotel/Motels Retail Investment Properties Offices and Land Development
Kamlesh Aggarwal, CCIM Broker/Owner Sooner Realty Properties, LLC (918) 260-5286 kamlesh912@gmail.com www.SoonerRealtyProperties.com
BUSINESS
Info on Muskogees top employers, jobs and success stories
The Davis Field Airport provides businesses easy transportation access. The airport is located on US Highway 64, only five miles south of the downtown district and convenient to Tulsa International Airport. See more photos about what its like to live and work in Muskogee at livability.com/ muskogee/ok/photos-video.
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BUSINESS: OVERVIEW
Made Here
MUSKOGEE: A REGIONAL CENTER FOR MANUFACTURING When manufacturing comes to mind, so should Muskogee. This small port town is known for its large manufacturing companies, whose products range from tiles to paper products to tasty treats.
Top Industries
PORT OF MUSKOGEE
The Port of Muskogee, a full-service facility that offers easy access to rail, truck and barge transportation, is located along the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, allowing freight to be transported to the Gulf Coast and around the world via the Arkansas and Mississippi rivers. This access to land, rail and water transportation is what makes Muskogee a top choice for manufacturers. Just ask Dal-Tile officials. The company, Americas leader in ceramic tile manufacturing and distribution, chose Muskogee for this reason in 2003. After the company received 171 acres of land, tiles from all over the world were slated for decorative production. Porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone tiles and slabs are just a few of the products available. Headquartered in Muskogee, Acme Engineering and Manufacturing Corporation manufactures fans, blowers and ventilation equipment. Its 350,000 square feet of manufacturing facility allows Acme to produce one of the broadest lines of airmoving equipment in the industry.
The Port of Muskogee attracts manufacturing companies looking for easy shipping and distribution access throughout the United States.
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its signature breakfast products, Griffin Waffle Syrup and Griffin Strawberry Preserves. The company ships many products to its customers, including syrups, jellies and preserves, mustards, salad dressings, shredded coconut, barbecue sauces, vanilla and peanut butter. Georgia-Pacific also has a facility in Muskogee, which produces familiar consumer paper products, including Brawny, Mardi Gras, Quilted Northern, Sparkle, Vanity Fair and Angel Soft. In addition to a variety of products, Muskogee also offers a variety of benefits. With a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office, veterans, their dependents, and their surviving spouses and children have an opportunity to receive disability, education and training, vocational rehabilitation and employment, and life insurance and burial benefits. By Tiffany Williams
One of the areas top employers, Love Bottling Company is a 135,000-squarefoot bottling facility that produces CocaCola, Dr Pepper and Love Beverages. Since moving to Muskogee in 1926, Loves products and services have expanded. The company offers home and office water delivery, cooler rentals, teas, coffee, energy drinks, juices, snacks and more.
BUSINESS
Small businesses such as The Erly Rush Coffeehouse feel at home in Muskogee. The cafe offers customized flavors and treats in an intimate setting.
Grown
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ENTREPRENEURS FIND SUCCESS IN THEIR OWN BACKYARD
arge corporations may choose Muskogee for its ease of transportation or its low cost of living, but local entrepreneurs and small business owners look to the residents themselves as one secret to their success.
A diverse mix of locally ownedand-operated endeavors hang their shingles in Muskogee thanks to a close-knit community and a mayor, Bob Coburn, who is working to revitalize the historically rich city. One stimulating sign of downtown change can be seen in The Erly Rush Coffeehouse. Launched in November 2012 by then 22-year-old native Nicholas Wilks. The intimate caf sits in the middle of a cluster of antique shops, including Hatties House 42 and Vintage Market, both owned by Wilks mother, Sherry Wilks. People like that they can walk from one end of the strip to the other and stop by for coffee in the middle, Wilks says, who will craft anything from a caramel macchiato to a peppermint mocha for his guests. SHOW IT OFF Like Wilks, who has been developing his business plan since high school, Muskogee native
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Business Spotlight
OKLAHOMA INTERPAK
This manufacturer of machineassembled chipboard and corrugated pads focuses on divider partitions, primarily for cardboard boxes. The company has been in business since the early 1980s. okinterpak.com
ARROWHEAD MALL
More than 60 stores and restaurants, one of the largest aquariums in the state, a movie theater and childrens play area provide residents with plenty of entertainment options. arrowheadmallmuskogee.com
Jump Start
Show it Off offers more than 50 types of inflatable bounce houses, slides and obstacle courses, including water slides, as well as a family entertainment center, which is located inside an old airplane hanger at Love-Hatbox Sports Complex. Owner Jason Jones, a Muskogee native, says the city is a great supporter of his new business.
WHITLOCK WISHOUSE
Built in 1919, this eclectic 5-bedroom bed and breakfast sits atop Horn Hill. It features a koi pond, hot tub, gazebo and swimming pool. 918-682-7879
Jason Jones got his entrepreneurial start at an early age. After many years honing his business skills, in September 2011, Jones expanded his burgeoning online inflatable rides business, Show It Off, to a larger scale by offering rentals as well as a family entertainment center, which is located inside an old airplane hangar at Love-Hatbox Sports Complex. The city wanted to expand Hatbox and helped us with the building, which was a great stepping stone, Jones says. The city has been a very supportive partner. Show It Offs entertainment center includes huge inflatable slides and obstacle courses, as well as an arcade room and two party rooms. Ive had lots of people tell
me, we needed something like this! Parents are always looking for more stuff to do with their kids, he says. PARTY TIME Susannah Stephens also saw a void that needed filled, and teamed with partners Jim Harris and Darren Kilpatrick to launch Kilharens Lodge, an in-demand party place and wedding venue on West Fern Mountain Road, not far from the easy-to-spot Castle of Muskogee. Stephens managed and cooked in restaurants for years before starting the catering company that would evolve into Kilharens Lodge. We got very used to traveling for catering clients, Stephens says, but also felt that Muskogee really needed a place for events.
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Locally owned Kilharens Lodge specializes in weddings and provides ample seating and catering.
Local couples saw Kilharens Lodge as an ideal wedding locale due to its rustic charm and ample seating (up to 400 in the main ballroom), which prompted Kilharens to expand to include an outdoor wedding garden. Stephens notes that even during the recession, Kilharens Lodge maintained solid bookings thanks to support from Muskogee. People always have to eat,
and theyre always going to get married! she says. Stephens and other entrepreneurs cite the people of Muskogee as one of its greatest assets. Ive lived in Muskogee all my life, Jones says. Show It Off has grown so much in the past year and a half, and thats due to the people of Muskogee. by Heather R. Johnson by staff photographer Michael Conti
The city wanted to expand Hatbox and helped us with the building, which was a great stepping stone. The city has been a very supportive partner.
JASON JONES, OWNER, SHOW IT OFF
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MUSKOGEE OKLAHOMA
Editor | Mitch Kline Contributing Writers | Laura Hill, Heather R. Johnson, John McBryde, Joe Morris, Cyndie Todd, Tiffany Williams Content Coordinator | Jessica Walker Boehm Staff Writer | Kevin Litwin Proofreading Manager | Raven Petty Lead Designer | Jackie Ciulla Senior Graphic Designers | Stacey Allis, Laura Gallagher, Kris Sexton, Jake Shores Graphic Designers | Kacey Passmore, Matt West Creative Technology Analyst | Becca Ary Lead Photographer | Michael Conti Senior Photographers | Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers | Wendy Jo OBarr, Frank Ordoez Color Imaging Technician | Alison Hunter Integrated Media Manager | Matt McWhorter Sales Support Project Manager | Sara Quint Sales Support Coordinator | Christina Morgan Sales Graphic Designer | Rachel Lorance Ad Production Manager | Katie Middendorf Senior Graphic Designer | Vikki Williams Ad Traffic Assistants | Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Web Project Manager | David Day Digital Project Manager | Jill Ridenour Digital Products Designer | Erica Lampley Web Developer I | Nels Noseworthy Web Designer II | Richard Stevens Web Product Manager | John Hood We are mobile so text the word ArrowheadMall to 90210 and receive updates on the latest fashion trends, news about the mall, discounts, store sales, mail events, job postings, how-to tips and much more. Get connected to get informed. Chairman | Greg Thurman President/Publisher | Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President | Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales | Todd Potter, Jarek Swekosky Senior V.P./Client Development | Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./Operations | Casey Hester V.P./Content Operations | Natasha Lorens Audience Development Director | Deanna Nelson Creative Services Director | Christina Carden Distribution Director | Gary Smith Photography Director | Jeffrey S. Otto Web Services Director | Allison Davis Controller | Chris Dudley Senior Accountant | Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator | Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator | Diana Iafrate IT Director | Daniel Cantrell Executive Secretary | Kristy Giles Human Resources Manager | Peggy Blake
2014 EDITION
VOLUME 9
Livability Muskogee, Oklahoma is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com. For more information, contact: Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce 310 West Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401 Phone: (918) 682-2401 Fax: (918) 682-2403 www.muskogeechamber.org Visit Livability: Muskogee, Oklahoma online at livability.com/muskogee Copyright 2013 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member Member The Association of Magazine Media Custom Content Council
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Keeping It Real
A new community promotion program has Muskogee getting real. In late 2012, the Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism hired Oklahoma-based Cubic Creative to help upgrade the chambers longstanding Okie from Muskogee branding slogan with the new slogan: REAL. OKIE. We will always be proud to be Okies from Muskogee, but it was time to update the image to make us more current, says Jim Eaton, former chairman of the Muskogee Chamber. We believe the two words Real and Okie encompass what people of Muskogee are all about today. Chamber president/CEO Treasure McKenzie says T-shirts, hats and bumper stickers displaying the REAL. OKIE. slogan are now available to the public. Several billboards in Muskogee are further spreading the message. The billboard message gives examples of what it means to be a true Muskogee resident, including the words genuine, strong, character and characters, she says. The words character and characters, respectively, describe the character of people in this community and point out that Muskogee has a lot of characters that make up its proud population. McKenzie says the slogan was introduced to the chamber membership at a January 2013 banquet. The marketing effort and official introduction to the community went into full swing in June 2013. As many of us know, the Okie from Muskogee theme derived from Merle Haggards same-titled album that was released in the late 1960s, but we found that many young people today dont know about the song or really dont think about the message, she says.
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Ad Index
37 A-AVANTI SELF STORAGE 46 ARROWHEAD MALL C4 CHEROKEE NATION ENTERTAINMENT LLC 47 CITY OF MUSKOGEE 4, 5 CONNORS STATE COLLEGE 46 CREEK NATION CASINO MUSKOGEE 2 DAL-TILE 34 EASTAR HEALTH SYSTEM 6 EDWARD JONES L. GREG GAITHER 47 FIVE CIVILIZED TRIBES MUSEUM 21 HERRINGSHAW WASTE MANAGEMENT & RECYCLING 41 INDIAN CAPITAL TECHNOLOGY CENTER 23 INTERSTATE PROPERTIES 34 GREEN COUNTRY SURGICAL ARTS C3 HAMPTON INN 8 GEORGIA-PACIFIC 45 GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH
C1A, 1 GREATER MUSKOGEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 36 GREEN COUNTRY BEHAVORIAL HEALTH SERVICES INC.
Ad Index (cont.)
25 MUSKOGEE PARKS & RECREATION 2 MUSKOGEE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
14-15 OKLAHOMA MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM INC. 47 PORT OF MUSKOGEE 33 REACH HIGHER PROGRAM NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 38 SOONER REALTY PROPERTIES 48 THE FULLER AGENCY INC. C3 THREE FORKS HARBOR PORT OF MUSKOGEE 7 THREE RIVERS MUSEUM
ECONOMIC PROFILE
TAXES
7%
11%
9%
1.15%
County Sales Tax
TOP EMPLOYERS
U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center Georgia Pacific, Dal-Tile, Muskogee Public School District, EASTAR Health System, Acme Engineering, City of Muskogee, County of Muskogee, OG&E Electric Services, Wal-Mart
EDUCATION LEVEL
High School Graduate Associate Degree Bachelors Degree Masters Degree
4.5%
State Sales Tax
9.65%
Total Sales Tax
SCORECARD
HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$200,000+ 227 $30,000-199,999 $29,999 and under
8,380
TRANSPORTATION
Davis Field Airport www.cityofmuskogee.com
$764M
Annual Retail Sales
$81M
Annual Hotel and Food Sales
3,191
Number of Businesses
7,065
www.fulleragency.com
Please visit our website to search properties. 1001 W. Broadway Muskogee, OK 74401 (918) 687-6394
200499
500999
1000+
4.0%
L I VA B I L I T Y M U S KO G E E , O K L A H O M A 2 0 1 4 E D I T I O N | VO L U M E 9