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What's new in Muskogee
ON THE MOVE
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GROUP PUBLISHER
Heather Kilpatrick
REGIONAL EDITOR
Kim Poindexter
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Jay Judah
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angel Ford
Mike Kays
Ronn Rowland
Cathy Spaulding
SALES MANAGER
Joe Mack
ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES
Angela Jackson
New Saint Francis wing already busy with patients Activity buzzed at Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee's new seven-story tower less than a week after it opened Feb. 12.
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City moving on infrastructure, facility improvements
Newly elected Muskogee Mayor Ryan Lowe says Muskogee has a great deal to offer.
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Paper and Pop: Two industries that helped build Muskogee over the last century Every town has its legacy industries. In Muskogee, they happen to be paper and soda pop.
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Port director highlights expansion, new businesses
Port Muskogee Executive Director Kimbra Scott said the future is bright for the city's commerce.
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Public safety projects move forward
Muskogee County voters approved a 0.849% of 1 cent sales tax in January 2025 to fund public safety projects. Since then, ground has been cleared for the Bass Reeves Memorial Public Safety Building in Muskogee and locations for new facilities in Fort Gibson and Haskell.
EDUCATION
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NSU Muskogee helps meet areas health care needs
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Fort Gibson riding wave of awards
Fort Gibson Schools needs a new trophy case just for honors and tributes students, teachers, programs and administrators received since last summer.
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Hilldale reflects on past year, looks forward
When state report cards were released in December, Hilldale schools were able to thump their chests.
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Oklahoma School For The Blind
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ICTC programs honored nationally Indian Capital Technology Center has long been an avenue for people to receive training to transition into the workplace.
Business Matters is a publication of the
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Therese Lewis ON THE COVER
Photo composition by Jay Judah
Muskogee offers variety of options to 'Eat, Stay, Play' Visitors often assume a small town offers a slower pace of life, and fewer things to do. But according to Patrick Kays, Muskogee Tourism and Exposition marketing manager, that assumption rarely lasts long.
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Professional basketball comes to Muskogee
Don’Tray Wilkerson was born in Muskogee and stayed here until third grade. He played high school basketball at Skiatook.
Northeastern State University's Muskogee campus continues to prepare people to meet area health care needs.
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Muskogee Public Schools moving forward on accomplishments Muskogee Public Schools isn't resting on past victories or growth to move onward and upward.
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Connors State looks to the future Connors State College is looking to the future in several different ways.
Specialty care, close to home
At Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee, advanced specialty care and trusted expertise bring exceptional care to Muskogee and the surrounding communities.
•Intensive Care Unit
•Cancer care services
•Primary Stroke Center
•Cardiovascular services
•Robotic surgery
•Behavioral health services
•Gastroenterology
•Women's health services
•Physical medicine and rehabilitation
New Saint Francis wing already busy with patients
By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Activity buzzed at Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee's new seven-story tower less than a week after it opened Feb. 12.
Progressive Care Unit Nurse Angie Muncy, a registered nurse, said the unit expanded from 20 to 32 beds in the new tower.
"And we were full almost immediately," Muncy said. "Part of the mission was to have more care available at this level, so they didn't have to be transferred."
Progressive care offers transition between intensive care and medical/post-surgery.
The tower expands the hospital by about 290,000 square feet. It includes 158 inpatient private rooms, a gift shop and a two-story lobby with a chapel. Muncy said a nurse walking from one end of the wing to the other and back will walk 0.9 miles.
Saint Francis Health System officials say the expansion could create more than 100 new jobs and generate more than $25 million in yearly economic output for Muskogee County.
Patients and visitors notice the difference immediately after pulling into the parking lot. They pass a statue of Jesus into an expansive entrance.
Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee President Michele Keeling said the lobby is flat to ground level.
"Remember when you used to have to go up that hill?" she said.
A chapel at one end of the lobby bears the Bible verse, "Whoever believes in me, as scripture said, rivers of water will flow from them."
The chapel's stained-glass window honors Muskogee's three rivers, azaleas and other symbols.
Displays on the lobby's second floor show the hospital’s history, including when it was Muskogee General Hospital and Muskogee Regional Medical Center, then under leadership of EASTAR and Capella. A larger pre-admission area adjoins the lobby
Pre-admission nurse Lillie Montgomery, a 30-year employee, compared the area to a one stop shop.
"When our patients come in, they have very short travel, easier access, she said.
Patients see the main difference in their larger, private rooms.
Picture windows in each room and at
each end of the hall bring in lots of natural light, Muncy said.
"That's so important with healing," she said. "Part of our job as nurses is to bring the light to patients."
Patients can see the sunshine and moonlight, but shades can block the light, if needed.
Registered nurse Jada Hill said the rooms are more efficient and up to date. Each room has corner windows where nurses in the hall can unobtrusively watch the patients.
Hill said she also likes how there is more than one nurses' station.
"It's much easier to get to your patient instead of running all the way down the hallway and all the way back up the hallway," she said.
The computerized work station is closer to patients.
Keeling said each room offers more space for families. One couch folds out into a bed.
"In the old building, there wasn't enough room for more than one or two family members," Keeling said. "They had to get up and move around when the clinical staff came in."
Each room has a larger bathroom with walk-in showers.
Patients also have more security. Patient medications are kept in a safe with computer access. Each staff member has computer-coded badges that open doors to places not accessible to the public.
Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee registered nurse Jada Hill shows a more efficient call button available in each patient room.
Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee Chaplain Mason Beecroft, second from right, tells visitors about the hospital's new chapel. Visitors are, from left: Charley Walton, Doug Walton, Olivia Walton and Stephany Acquaro.
Saint Francis Hospital's new tower looms over west Muskogee.
City moving on infrastructure, facility improvements
By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Newly elected Muskogee Mayor Ryan Lowe says Muskogee has a great deal to offer.
"We just have to capitalize on that," Lowe said.
He said he's ready to build on that when he takes office in April.
"Once I get in there, we're going to have a whole new outlook on how we do business," Lowe said. "I want people to know Muskogee is open for business. Muskogee hasn't always been business friendly, but I intend to change that."
Lowe said he wants to promote new industry, including manufacturing and information technology.
"I want to see our local economy in better shape than it has been in the past, and we can do that by promoting Muskogee," he said. "We have some positive things on the horizon and I want to build on that. I want to see a more viable Muskogee, one that people truly do want to visit from time to time."
Muskogee residents are ready to see improvements as well.
The city will start work on a slew of projects funded by a half-cent sales tax approved in July 2025. Major projects include improvements at Muskogee Public Library and Muskogee Civic Center, Hatbox ballfield upgrades, street improvements, and an expansion at the Dr. Martin Luther King Community Center.
City Manager Kendal Francis said the tax could raise $3.8 million a year.
Francis said HVAC improvements at the civic center and library could be the first projects tackled. He said GH2 Architects will work on the civic center with an engineer chosen soon. The city will seek architects and engineers for library work.
City crews continue to work on improving city streets.
Two city projects that are not part of the current tax will help neighborhood schools.
The city is widening Country Club Road between Chandler Road and Monta Avenue to one north lane, one south lane and a center turn lane. The widening, funded by the 2019 half-cent sales tax, could help ease traffic congestion by Creek Elementary School.
Assistant Public Works Director Avery Rigney said work began on Country Club Road the first week of February.
"The school and parents have been patient and understanding throughout the process," he said. "Cook Construction has been on site daily, installing storm sewer infrastructure and preparing for the road widening, which will take place in the coming weeks and months."
Cherokee Elementary students could get sidewalks when the new school year starts in August. The sidewalks are funded through an Oklahoma Department of Transportation Transportation Alternatives Program grant.
"The project is in the engineering and design phase and is expected to go out for bid in time for completion this summer," Rigney said. "The city looks forward to bringing these improvements to students, families, and the surrounding neighborhood."
Contractors also are working on more pressing needs. The city's wastewater treatment plant, which dates to the 1950s, must be replaced by 2029.
Rigney said the contractor, Crossland Heavy Contractors, is working with with city staff on final preparations.
"Work is scheduled to begin during the first week of April, as planned," Rigney said.
The city also is working with OG&E to make sure streetlights work where they're needed most. Some city officials had expressed about lights that didn't work, including some in high crime areas.
"OG&E has committed significant resources to resolving reported outages and is making substantial progress," Rigney said. "In some cases, repairs involve more complex electrical or equipment issues that require additional time and attention."
Rigney said outages are reported in the order they are received.
Workers dig beside Country Club Road so stormwater pipes can be installed. After installation, the road will be widened to three lanes.
Elliot the Dog chills with 5-year-old Sunny Sims at Muskogee Public Library. A new HVAC could bring even more comfort to the facility.
City Paper and Pop:
Two industries that helped build Muskogee over the past century
By Angel Ford MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Every town has its legacy industries. In Muskogee, they happen to be paper and soda pop.
Georgia-Pacific has spent half a century producing paper products people use every day, and Love Bottling Co. has put a cap on some of America’s most beloved drinks for over a century.
While they both are different industries and began in different eras, they share one major legacy: They are woven into the very fabric of Muskogee’s community and history.
Before it was Georgia-Pacific, Muskogee’s paper mill had a few other names. In 1976, construction began and it was the second facility of its kind to be owned by Fort Howard Paper Co. Operations began in 1978 and just 19 years later, in 1997, Fort Howard merged with James River Corp., and became Fort James. After three years, the company was acquired by Georgia-Pacific.
Greg Jackson, 36-year IT employee at GP, celebrated his work anniversary on March 12, 2026. He said he’s been around to see it all, and will choose to work at GP every time.
“It's a good place to work,” said Jackson. “The people that work here, the work that we do here. Georgia-Pacific, when I started it was Fort Howard, it was kind of the place to work at the time, and it's the place to work now, just because of the amount of work we do and the people that's here. It's actually been pretty great.”
Kristen Turley, GP public affairs and communications manager, said they have multigenerational family members working at the mill, and it is something GP is incredibly proud of.
“Everybody has a story about an uncle, a grandpa, a dad, a cousin who started here when they were 18 or 19 years old and worked their way up,” said Turley. “So the family history and the impact that it has on the families in this community, as well as the community in general, is something that we're really proud of.”
In November this year, GP will mark 50 years of operation within Muskogee. Turley said as one of Muskogee’s largest employers, they feel a great responsibility to ensure GP is providing the community
with a stable work environment as they understand the impact they have had, and are proud of.
“Now, with our leadership team, we talk a lot about wanting to be here another 50-plus years,” said Turley. “So our job is to be good stewards of the mill to help build and invest in our people, as well as the products and the assets that we manage so we can continue to be a stable, safe workplace for generations to come.”
After a plant fire in 2019, Turley said GP as a whole decided to invest back into rebuilding the mill as it could have proved devastating to Muskogee had it chosen not to. She also said they continue to invest into the community by donating and have given about $135,000-$145,000 in the past year to two different nonprofits.
For GP's 50th anniversary this year. Turley said they plan to focus on celebrating the people who have built the mill from the ground up.
“We want to make sure that we are really recognizing the impact that our employees have on the day-to-day operations,” said Turley. “We'll be having a family day later this year where families can bring their significant others, their kids, their cousins, grandparents, whomever they want from former employees to family that's closest to them, come have some fun, entertain them a little bit, give them a tour of the facility. Not everybody has gotten the opportunity to see where their mom or dad may work.”
Love Bottling Co. was built by two brothers: K.C. Love and J.H. Love. While the company had several names across 100 years, some of the more notable ones were Love Brothers Bottling, K.C. Beverages, Dr Pepper Love Bottling Co., and finally Love Bottling Co.
The company was first built in Eufaula in 1919 but moved to Muskogee soon after.
In 1928, the brothers split the company in half, J.H. moved to Bartlesville while K.C. remained in Muskogee, and the two supported each other's ventures.
James Gulley, president and CEO of Love Bottling Muskogee, said he is most proud of the importance of family the business was built on and continues to carry through to today.
“We can always say we're a family business and we treat our employees as family,” said Gulley. “We do an annual D.F. Love Fishing Derby. We've got a five-acre pond and we bring out the whole family, the kids and the grandkids for a fishing derby. We do the chili cookoff, and we have our families passing out chili to support the exchange club and the chili cookoff. … So that's what I'm proud of, is that we're trying to be a real family organization, to get to know our employees, their spouses and their kids and their grandkids.”
Gulley said they continue to celebrate their employees throughout the year with various events and aim to create a tight-knit community within their own company.
The William Barry Love Foundation owns Love Bottling Co., and a portion of the company’s profits go into the foundation that supports youth and families across Eastern Oklahoma. Gulley said Barry Love, the former CEO, designated six organizations he wanted the profits to go toward: Muskogee Public Schools, Hilldale Public Schools, Court Appointed Special Advocates, Shriners Transportation and ICTC. As of last year, Gulley said
they were able to award $2.7 million between the six chosen entities through permanent endowments.
“It comes from the first, second and the third generations of the Love families to be able to do this,” said Gulley. “We're just carrying Barry Love’s wishes and fulfilling the obligations that were in his trust documents.”
Gulley said he began mopping the floors of Love Bottling over 30 years ago; he is now the president and CEO, and said he would not change a thing about his time with the company. As a native to Muskogee, Gulley loves to invest in the community, along with other companies he respects.
“For me personally, Love Bottling Co. is just one of several great corporate citizens in Muskogee,” said Gulley. “The Georgia-Pacific people, the Daltile people are always involved in some thing. Servepro, Advantage Controls, Terrafab - they're at almost every event, also. I can go on and on about the good corporate citizens that are trying to make Muskogee a better place to live. I, quite frankly, get tired of those people who are naysayers about Muskogee because they're such a small minority, but they're such a vocal group, and it disappoints me that they don't see the potential of Muskogee quite like I do. Quite like a lot of the other corporate citizens, we think this is a real wonderful place to be.”
City Muskogee offers variety of options to 'Eat, Stay, Play'
By Angel Ford MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Visitors often assume a small town offers a slower pace of life, and fewer things to do. But according to Patrick Kays, Muskogee Tourism and Exposition marketing manager, that assumption rarely lasts long.
From weekend festivals and farmers markets to fishing tournaments, local shops, and historical museums, Muskogee’s calendar and streets are busier than many newcomers may expect.
“We try to give a variety of things that different people can come and be a part of or be excited about,” said Kays. “We don't want to stick with one kind of genre of events. We kind of want to spread it out so everyone kind of has something they want to come to school before.”
With a variety of events scheduled this year at Hatbox Event Center and the Muskogee Civic Center, Kays said Muskogee has even been chosen as a base for a well-known brand and will be broadcast at a national level.
“One of our big ones that we really look forward to is we have the Bass Master Elite Series coming back,” said Kays. “That's a worldwide recognized brand in terms of fishing. It's nationally televised and they will camp out at the Three Forks Harbor. We'll have live music and we'll have the weigh-ins there. Another one is Power Sports Expo. That's anything to do with power sports, like off-roading. If you're an off-roading person, that's a huge event. They were here last year and decided to come back again.”
fan.’ They came to travel across America and they stopped in Muskogee just to take a picture with Merle. It makes me laugh when people say, ‘How does that statue bring tourism?’ Not a lot of people think it does.”
Kays said it has become a worldwide phenomenon and that many are excited to learn one of the more popular recordings of “Okie in Muskogee” was captured live onstage at the Muskogee Civic Center.
From popular musician Jo Dee Messina having a concert at the civic center to local college basketball tournaments and a variety of festivals starting up in the summer, people from all across the world can choose what fits their bill for a day of fun. Yet despite the many events, Kays said a surprising piece of Muskogee often overlooked is what causes many out-of-country visitors to stop by.
“You'd be surprised with how many people come from all over the country to see the Merle Haggard statue,” said Kays. “I mean, just the statue alone out front has brought in people from Sweden or Switzerland, saying, ‘I'm a Merle Haggard
“The one people listen to most, that live album was recorded here – he stood on the stage and recorded it,” said Kays. “It's cool. People get to walk in there and see it. It's really just a special thing that Merle Haggard essentially put us on the map.”
Aside from Haggard, Kays said, a goal is to create new ways to bring people in and get them excited.
“We want people to experience new, fresh things and realize that you don't have to go all the way to Tulsa to find something fun to do,” said Kays. “Hopefully what that'll do is plant seeds to get people to come here, stay here, move here, and want to be here. Then it'll trickle into the rest of the community and we see that on an economic impact.”
To Kays, one of the more important focuses of the tourism department is for visitors, and locals, to learn the town’s history – especially ones that have brought a small piece of sweetness to people all across the country. .
“Not a lot of people realize the first ever Girl Scout Cookies were sold here in Muskogee,” said Kays. “The fact that it's originated here – that's crazy [to think about]. [We] actually have a little Girl Scout statue up front. Another thing that really draws people is Bass Reeves' history. We have a Bass Reeves history conference that comes through and I also have information about him at 3 Rivers [Museum] and a statue that's a gorgeous, stunning, huge statue. And then there's a whole mystery about where he's buried. There's a spot here in Muskogee; some people claim that’s where he's buried, but they've been unable to find it.”
He said 3 Rivers Museum is a great spot to start.
A Merle Haggard statue at Muskogee Civic Center invites visitors to join the music.
A downtown Muskogee clock testifies of Rotary's 113-year commitment to the city.
“Five Civilized Tribes Museum is a great one to celebrate our native heritage and is core to Muskogee; they do a great job,” said Kays. “The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, which is getting their brand-new building.
We'll be opening it up here shortly, hopefully within the next three months. They've had a complete renovation from the state and it's going to look incredible.”
Kays said the concept drawings for the music hall look amazing and that they are close to being finished.
Other attractions include one aspect of Muskogee’s history that many would not expect to see in Oklahoma.
“We have a whole submarine here,” said Kays. “They're working on trying to get a new museum built and move it by 3 Forks Harbor, which I really hope happens. Obviously the Castle is one. You can't come and just go without at least visiting the Castle of Muskogee. It's insane – we have a whole massive castle village in Muskogee. So when people say there's not a lot to do, they just are not looking very hard, because we have a lot of things going on. From the only Roxy [Theater] in the state of Oklahoma to a submarine, there is always something to do.”
The Muskogee Tourism offices are now at
the Muskogee Civic Center, and they operate the Roxy Theater, Muskogee Civic Center, and Hatbox Expo Center, along with tourism in general.
“I think Muskogee has got a good pulse,” said Kays. “We're really pushing these because we have some amazing attractions. We have so many different shops and we have such a wide variety of great restaurants people can choose from. If we get them, if we have a reason to get them here, they'll stay and they'll eat here. And then that's more dollars going into our local community and staying here.”
Kays said they are funded by hotel dollars, so events are meant to attract people outside of Muskogee, as well as those who live in town. With the changes and many attractions now available in Muskogee, Kays said, they already see a direct positive impact on local businesses.
“Watson's Chop House made a post – they opened up last year and have been a huge success – and when we had an event recently, they made a post and said this event gave them their busiest night they've had since they opened,” said Kays. “So we're seeing a direct impact; when we have events, people are going out to eat. They're getting out of the house or going to eat locally, or people are coming in from out of town and they stop to eat somewhere in Muskogee. One of our visions is, ‘Eat, Stay, Play.’ We want to be sure people can find something to do, stay here in Muskogee, eat here, and shop here.”
Portrayers of territorial marshals join U.S. Deputy Marshal Jeremy Hammons, seated, around a statue of legendary lawman Bass Reeves at Three Rivers Museum. From left are: Dexter Bolin, Roy Williams and Oscar Ray.
City
By Mike Kays MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Don’Tray Wilkerson was born in Muskogee and stayed here until third grade. He played high school basketball at Skiatook.
Now, Wilkerson has come full circle, doing what he didn’t do in high school. He's representing what he still calls home in front of what is hoped to be a fan base that attaches to the Muskogee SkyKings, a member of a national hoops organization called The Basketball League. He’s a 6-foot-2 guard.
“My grandma, she stays down the street from where we are now,” he said, referring to a house he shares with three other teammates near downtown. “As soon as I heard they were putting a team here, all of the family here was calling out to come play.”
TBL, formerly North America Premier Basketball, began operating in 2018 with eight teams. It has grown to 38 teams now, with divisions in various regions throughout the country. Muskogee is in the Central Conference with the ADS Sentinels, near San Antonio; CYM Leopards, in Lewisville, Texas; Sherman (Texas) Stampede; Enid Outlaws; Little Rock Lightning and Potawatomi Fire, in Shawnee, the latter seeking its third consecutive TBL championship.
Some have played in European leagues at various levels. The NBA G League is the nearest thing to the highest level here. Europe, too, has various levels of professional play. Comparatively speaking, TBL would be along baseball’s A to AA level. There are no buyout clauses, so players can move about if they find another opportunity.
Jonathan Reed is the owner/general manager of the SkyKings, which originated in Wichita, Kansas, but played
last season at Altus.
“I came out here to make a competitive product,” he said. “I chose a competitive coach. We may not win the championship but you’ll get entertaining basketball.”
Why Muskogee, especially compared to places like they originated in Wichita?
“It’s about population, but it’s more about location, and these midsize markets really do better than the major cities," Reed said. "Tulsa doesn’t have a professional team so we hope we can draw fans from there, but Muskogee has strategic placement between a lot of small places that we can draw from.”
His coaches? Lenny Bert – yes, that same Bert who is boys coach at Muskogee High. He will have an assistant in Anthony Smith, a five-year coaching veteran in the TBL. Bert coached the Altus team part of last season while an assistant one season at Douglass.
Skykings stand with area dignitaries.
The 14-year Putnam West coach played and coached against Reed.
"I was AD the last six years at West, so going from that to an assistant at Douglass gave me an opportunity to go outside the box from a coaches' perspective," Bert said. "I think he saw the culture and environment.
You have an opportunity to grow it and kind of just tied into me. Jonathan was like, 'You want to try it again?' It wasn’t like it was on purpose, but here we are, and it's an exciting kind of basketball to bring to Muskogee."
Reed's vision?
“We’re going to engage the community in a number of ways. We made our tickets affordable – $10. We have season ticket packages and while they’ve started slow, that’s not a primary concern to me, because they want to take a look at the product first," he said.
Muskogee
"As long as the city receives it and the schools semi-back it and the community starts to support it, we’ll be fine.”
The team held an exhibition at the smallish John Ford Community Center gym in Tullahassee a couple weeks ago, and while the bench seats were only three or four rows high, the place was packed and enthusiastic. The team had a season ticket contest at halftime. They’ll have half-court shot contests, dance-offs and other promotions at home games played at Ron Milam Gymnasium.
Anterrious Rhyan, who recently played with Anthony at Little Rock, grew attached to what he saw at Tullahassee.
“It really was a nice, small gym and the crowd gave us a lot of energy – you know what I mean – and then a full-circle moment of bringing a team to Muskogee and playing an exhibition in the first all-black town in Oklahoma," Rhyan said. "That made it special. And we want to make this work here.”
That also includes the need for corporate and business sponsorships.
Darrice “Pancho” Whitley is a 6-5 forward and three-year veteran in the TBL who has also played six seasons in Central America, Costa Rica and Mexico, and had a training camp invite at one point with the Dallas Mavericks’ G League team. Whitley has one business he’d like to target.
“Speaking for myself, we need a Braum's sponsorship,” he said with a grin. "We went there one night after practice at Muskogee High. I’m from Louisiana and we don’t have those there. Just say I’ve become a big fan now.”
TBL has annual drafts. Due to the makeup of the league, teams try to look within the area and a reasonable distance from their base. The SkyKings’ pick was Gentrell Taylor, a 6-7 forward from Point University in Georgia. Taylor has an immediate desire to see how far his playing career takes him but also has an interest in oneday coaching.
Another element is his faith.
“First about me, I’m a God-fearing man," he said. "My family is of Haitian roots and we’re tough-minded, strong-willed and try to follow him and the process of everything within the Bible. We understand that without him, nothing is possible.”
And with that, here’s to the possibility of a successful connection with Muskogee and the area.
Port of Muskogee Port director highlights expansion, new businesses
By Ronn Rowland MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Port Muskogee Executive Director Kimbra Scott said the future is bright for the city's commerce.
Scott said 2025 was a defining year for Port Muskogee not just in headlines, but in long-term impact.
"Googles selection of Muskogee for two data center campuses marks the largest economic development investment in our citys history," Scott said. "It positioned Muskogee at the center of a $9 billion statewide technology expansion and reinforced our growing reputation as an emerging tech and infrastructure hub. That momentum continued with Stardust Power breaking ground on its $1.2 billion battery-grade lithium refinery one of the largest of its kind in the country. The project strengthens domestic supply chains while delivering hundreds of high-quality jobs to the region."
She also highlighted Division Laundry, a family-owned business creating up to 100 new jobs in its first Oklahoma facility, and a strategic partnership with OmniTrax to manage short-line rail operations within the Port.
"At the same time, Port Muskogee expanded its footprint with the acquisition of the 125-acre Port Muskogee South site, adding prime industrial development property with direct river and rail access," she said. "Additionally, with the formal incorporation of the Muskogee Industrial Park under the Port Muskogee South identity, our total industrial ecosystem now spans approximately 3,000 acres."
Scott said 2026 is all about long-term growth and strengthening the foundation that drives it.
"Workforce development is at the top of that list, and Elevate 18 is a clear example," she said. "Last year, we launched this first-of-its-kind workforce development program. We brought Muskogee High School seniors directly into our manufacturing facilities, introduced
them to industry leaders, and showed them that high-paying, high-skill careers exist right here at home."
She also said the port is aggressively advancing site readiness.
be built near 32nd Street and West 43rd Street South.
"Industrial prospects today move quickly," Scott said. "They expect utilities in place, rail access secured, environmental due diligence completed, and land that is truly shovel-ready. Prioritizing that work now means when opportunities arise next year or five years from now, Muskogee is ready to respond quickly and competitively."
Port Muskogee began in 1961 as Muskogee City-County Port Authority to improve the area's economy. Scott said that by 1971, the first commercial barges arrived, connecting Muskogee to the 445-mile McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System.
"Over the decades, the Port has grown from a regional shipping terminal into one of the most strategically positioned industrial hubs in Oklahoma," she said. "What started with river access has evolved into a fully integrated logistics ecosystem with rail, road and river all operating within a single industrial footprint."
Scott said across the business world, Port Muskogee is now viewed as a serious industrial investment.
"Reputation in economic development isnt built through marketing alone its built through performance," she said. "Over the past several years, Port Muskogee has proved it can compete and win on a national and global stage. And were just getting started."
Drivers headed west on Smith Ferry Road from US 69 South can see cranes, trucks and front-end loaders moving materials used for Project Scissortail. The city made different franchise fee arrangements with other development projects, such as Scissortail, which involves a 25-year tax incentive for data centers to
Port Muskogee last April announced plans to expand rail traffic from the port to the new Port Muskogee South.
Dignitaries join a groundbreaking ceremony in 2025 for a Stardust Power’s lithium refining facility to be built south of Muskogee. From left are: Stardust Power CEO Rushan Pujari, Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell, Mayor Patrick Cale and Port Muskogee Director Kimbra Scott.
Kimbra Scott of Port Muskogee wears many hats.
Public Safety
Public safety projects move forward
By Ronn Rowland MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Muskogee County voters approved a 0.849% of 1 cent sales tax in January 2025 to fund public safety projects. Since then, ground has been cleared for the Bass Reeves Memorial Public Safety Building in Muskogee and locations for new facilities in Fort Gibson and Haskell.
Bidding for the Reeves Building construction is ongoing, with construction set to begin April 1. Williams Contracting of Muskogee is responsible for soliciting the bids.
Travis Williams said his company will collect the bids and review them for the Public Safety Trust Authority.
"The Muskogee campus — all the projects there downtown have been advertised for bids," Williams said. "We have four bid openings scheduled for the first two weeks in March. As a construction manager, we just solicit and receive all the trade bids and vendor bids."
Williams also said that bidding process has changed somewhat over the years for the construction process.
"All those bids are opened and publicly bid out and read aloud, much like the general contracting method," he said. "The owners can hire us as a construction manager, and we follow all the statutory requirements and bid out all the trade packages. Part of our duty as a construction manager is we will take those bids, open them and review them, then we recommend to the Public Safety Authority all the low bids. We've checked them all out and vetted them."
District 3 County Commissioner Kenny Payne said another factor in the bidding process is when the company can start.
"We'll narrow the bids down, but when they can get the work done is really a part of who receives the bids," Payne said. "We don't want to wait six months for someone who might be a
little lighter on the bid, keeping in mind, though, we made an absolute commitment to not spend more than we said we would spend."
The city has already reaped some of the benefits from the new sales tax. In January, a new pumper truck was delivered to Fire Station 1 by Chief Jody Moore.
“I think this is promises made, promises kept,” Payne said. “When we introduced the idea of this tax, we were very detailed and outlined about what we would do with the money. We are striving every day to stay within our budget.”
Moore said Station 7, where the new truck will be based, has the crew there thrilled.
“We’ve needed new trucks for years and this is the opportunity to upgrade our fleet,” Moore said. “We got one about a year ago. One of the drivers told me yesterday he got in one of the old trucks, and it’s a difference of night and day.”
Muskogee County Emergency Medical Services Executive Director Laurel Havens said the truck had a price tag of $815,000. He also said it’s the first of several purchases to be made this year.
“In June or July, we should start purchasing police cars and sheriff’s vehicles,” Havens said. “There’s some ancillary things in there we could purchase. The fire department has money set aside for turnout gear and equipment they could purchase.”
Another benefit to the county from the sales tax is a free ambulance service offered beginning last April to any resident in the county.
Havens said everything has gone off without a hitch.
“It’s been good,” Havens said. “We’re up 7.1% over last year. We haven’t had any major issues at all. We’ve had patients call and ask if the ambulance is free and they need an ambulance.”
Standing in front of a new pumper truck the city took possession of in January are, from left: Muskogee County Sheriff Andy Simmons, District 3 Commissioner Kenny Payne, Fire Chief Jody Moore, Emergency Medical Services Executive Director Laurel Havens and Mayor Patrick Cale. The truck was purchased with monies generated by the sales tax approved by voters last January.
When people think of “The American Dream,” many opportunities come to mind — and owning a home is usually at the top of the list.
Whether you’ve bought and sold many homes over the years, or aren’t quite there yet, all the professionals below are ready to help make it happen.
My entire real estate career has been here in the Muskogee area, and I have seen the market ebb and flow over the past 21 years. Some years, sellers have the upper hand, and other years, it’s a buyer’s market. But every year, regardless of which way the market is shifting, buyers and sellers alike are out there starting new chapters, and our job is to find the right combination so everyone can move forward.
The market in Muskogee County right now is balanced, with moderate price appreciation. Interest rates have been in the low to mid-6’s, which historically is very good. The fever dream of the postCOVID market has settled down, which is much better if you are looking to buy. For sellers, the past 12 months show the sales prices on houses to be about 98% of the list prices.
If you are waiting for the perfect time to buy or sell, I will let you in on a secret: It doesn’t exist. You must do what is right for you and your family today.
And if you think, “I could never buy a house,” think again. I can’t tell you how many times I have heard that over the years. Don’t just assume you can’t; instead, reach out to a local lender and ask to get preapproved for a mortgage. There are tons of different loan programs to suit a variety of situations, and you might even qualify for down payment assistance. Even if the lender says it isn’t possible today, ask her what it will take to get there so you will know how to proceed, and then take the next right step.
Whatever you decide regarding your housing situation this year and moving forward, my advice is to always lean on the expertise of local professionals because they know the nuances of our unique market and work together seamlessly every day.
The real estate agents, lenders, insurers, and title companies here in Muskogee County are part of our community. We live here, invest here, work here, shop here, and sponsor educational and community events year-round. Our kids and grandkids go to school with yours and we have a stake in making this a place of which we can all be proud.
The good news is you have many excellent professionals to choose from, and I believe I speak for all of us when I say how rewarding it is to help our clients find their way home.
Holly Rosser Miller Broker Associate Interstate Properties, Inc.
Education NSU Muskogee helps meet area health care needs
By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Northeastern State University's Muskogee campus continues to prepare people to meet area health care needs.
"NSU Muskogee is the hub for our health professions degrees, offering a central learning campus for our health professions students, which provides opportunities for these students to learn from each other through inter-professional education experiences," said Dr. Jessica Martin, dean of the Gregg Wadley College of Science & Health Professions.
Martin said the NSU Muskogee campus hosts most of the university's health professions programs. Undergraduate programs include speech-language pathology and nutritional sciences. Graduate programs include occupational therapy, speech language pathology and physician assistant studies.
"Online programs in nursing and public health are also based on the Muskogee campus," she said. "These health care programs attract students who are motivated to make a difference in their communities."
Martin said Muskogee campus enrollment has been steady at more than 1,100 students over the past few years. Many are completely online.
The campus, at 21st Street and Shawnee Bypass, has seen some improvements of its own. Martin said recent improvements include a new roof, HVAC updates and upgrades to building entrances.
"Plans for the NSU Muskogee campus include building on existing strengths in health professions programs," Martin said. "These high-quality graduate programs provide students with a high-quality education, small class sizes, and extensive experiences with client care, preparing them to enter their respective health profession. Graduates from the NSU Muskogee programs are highly sought after and employed in our fields."
Speech language pathology students take an in-depth look at the ear at Northeastern State University's Muskogee Campus.
Northeastern State University's Muskogee Campus has long been a draw for students learning physical and occupational therapy.
Education Muskogee Public Schools
moving forward on accomplishments
By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Muskogee Public Schools isn't resting on past victories or growth to move onward and upward.
School Superintendent Jarod Mendenhall said the district shows progress in academics and student opportunities.
After being designated a second time as a National Blue Ribbon School in 2023, Sadler Arts Academy was named as Oklahoma’s top middle school and ninth among elementary schools by U.S. News and World Report last fall. According to the report, 70% of Sadler students scored at or above proficient level for math, and 70% scored at or above proficient level in reading.
Mendenhall also praised Muskogee High's unique Early College High School program it shares with Connors State College. Now in its second year, the program allows MHS students to take Connors classes for an associate degree, as well as earn a high school diploma when they graduate. Mendenhall said 25 seniors are expected to graduate through the program in 2026, up from 13 in 2025.
He tallied a list of other accomplishments.
MHS Senior Gareth McJunkin became the high school's first Oklahoma Academic All-Stater in 13 years. Forty of the district's youngest students bring joy to residents of the Springs Rehabilitation Center through intergenerational classes. The district's historic Indian Bowl Stadium, at the 8th and 9th Grade Academy, now houses the Rougher soccer and track complex. A Shawnee Bypass access street in front of MHS is now unofficially called Rougher Road.
Muskogee Public Schools also has innovative projects on the way. Muskogee High soon will open a college and career center, where students can explore pathways to post-graduation options. A long-range planning committee is working on what to include in a potential bond issue in 2027. The committee is made up of school administrators, parents, city leaders and past and present educators.
"While no specific plans have been determined at this time, we are confident our stakeholder involvement process will produce the same kind of results as our 2019 bond referendum," Mendenhall said. "We have scheduled three meetings this spring, which will be followed by additional meetings in the fall to finalize a plan to be taken to the Board of Education. We hope to have our next bond referendum vote in February 2027."
Muskogee High Seniors Perry Bartley, left, and Austen Torix unveil the new sign dedicating the road in front of Muskogee High School as “Rougher Road” during Homecoming Week in 2025.
Seventh grader Ja’Kayla Perry waves a flag with the Muskogee High Rougher Regiment during Monday’s Muskogee Christmas parade.
Sadler Arts Academy math and science teacher Monica Skaggs, right, writes on the board while eighth graders study.
Fort Gibson Schools needs a new trophy case just for honors and tributes students, teachers, programs and administrators received since last summer.
In November, the FFA livestock judging team won a category championship at the National FFA Convention. The following month, Fort Gibson High School Principal Ben Pemberton was named 2025 Principal of the Year by the Oklahoma Association of Secondary School Principals. The honor was bestowed the same day Fort Gibson High School was honored as a National Blue Ribbon School.
Pemberton said FGHS earned the honor partly by scoring in the top 15% nationally in math or reading.
“Only six schools from over 1,700 across the state can even be nominated for this award,” Pemberton said.
FGHS Student Council President Elizabeth Parker said the honors show how good the administration is.
“You can tell how dedicated [our principal] is to our school and how amazing our staff is,” Parker said. “There is definitely a lot of work put into it.”
The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence has honored Fort Gibson three times so far in 2026.
Fort Gibson School Superintendent Scott Farmer earned a Medal for Excellence in Elementary and Secondary Education. Fort Gibson Education Foundation received an Outstanding Program award for its Tiger Tutoring program. The program uses FGHS juniors and seniors as after-school tutors. And the foundation recently named FGHS senior Benjamin Parker-Christensen as an Academic AllStater.
"That's just a testament to the work our teachers and kids do each day," Farmer said. "We've seen growth academically. Our goal on the ACT assessment is to be two points above state average. We are exceeding that goal."
Farmer said enrollment is holding steady. Current enrollment at all four schools is 1,685, down slightly from 1,687 in March 2025.
As for building needs, Farmer said immediate needs over the next year are minor. They include small renovations in the gym and lobby, as well as roof work and classroom carpeting.
The district is working on building and technology upgrades to for a potential bond issue in 2028. Upgrades could include moving high school and middle school entrances to improve traffic flow.
By Cathy Spaulding MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Officials with Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence present a $2,000 check to the Fort Gibson Education Foundation for being one of three outstanding school programs in Oklahoma.
Raygan Greathouse of Fort Gibson FFA keeps his goat in line Tuesday at Muskogee County Spring Livestock Show.
Fort Gibson High School Student Council members hold a banner designating the school as a Blue Ribbon School, while state and Fort Gibson school officials hold a sign honoring Ben Pemberton as OASSP Principal of the Year.
All sorts of characters show up in tales spun by a father in the Fort Gibson Tiger Theatre Co. production of "Big Fish."
By Ronn Rowland MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
When state report cards were released in December, Hilldale schools were able to thump their chests.
Hilldale Middle School received a B grade, while Hilldale elementary and high schools received a C.
Hilldale School Superintendent Erik Puckett said the middle school made “great gains.”
“We went up tremendously,” he said. “We actually got an A in academic improvement. That really excited our middle school staff. They were just a few points away from getting an A [overall]. I really hope to model some of those things they’re doing in the middle school and high school.”
Puckett said Middle School staff has a strong focus on instruction and holding students accountable for good state test scores. Hilldale Elementary and High School earned C grades.
“If they didn’t score at least a basic or better, we recommend remediation in math and reading,” Puckett said. “They lose an elective and are placed in those bridge classes for remediation.”
Puckett said the staff at each school works hard.
"We are proud of our increase in state test scores, especially at our Middle School and emphasis our staff has put on individual student learning outcomes with our intervention and remediation classes, tutoring and classroom instruction," he said.
Puckett also was thrilled about about grants his schools received to help advance needs of the students.
Hilldale Public Schools originally asked for $75,000 to fund its concurrent enrollment program with Connors and $164,500 for laptop computers for teachers. In June, the foundation granted $18,750 for the concurrent enrollment and $41,580 for the computers, with the William Barry Love Foundation paying the remaining 75% for both.
Puckett said the new laptops will help the district “meet the changing technology needs to educate our students.”
“The concurrent enrollment will give all students access to concurrent credit and save families money for college,” Puckett said. "
$460,167.66
State: $13,599,022.62
Federal: $1,790,148.64
TOTAL: $18,753,678.94
DISTRICT LEADERSHIP
Erik Puckett
Superintendent
Dr. Deborah Tennison & Chad Kirkhart Assistant Superintendents
BUILDING PRINCIPALS
Hilldale’s cheer squad goes through some drills.
Oklahoma School for the blind
BY THE NUMBERS
Funding sources in dollars
State: $9,079,062
Federal: $6,000
Inter-agency: $4,000
Other: $1,128,834
TOTAL: $10,227,896
TOP DISTRICT LEADERSHIP: Superintendent: Brent Pearce. Building principals: High School Principal Brian Womack Dean of Students/Assistant Principal Tim Stevens Elementary/Middle School Principal Shawna Coplen.
Katherine Cantu hugs her son, Elijah Cantu, after he graduated from Oklahoma School for the Blind.
Education BY THE NUMBERS
STUDENT INFORMATION
Muskogee Campus Students
Total Students: 528
INDIAN CAPITAL TECHNOLOGY CENTER
Adult Tuition/Fees:
In-district tuition for full-time day
$2.50/credit hour
In-district tuition for Adult Health Careers programs
Top courses taught at Muskogee Campus:
ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL
Superintendent: Tony Pivec
Assistant Superintendent: Doyle Bates
Muskogee Campus Director: Dr. Angela Kohl
ICTC BOARD OF EDUCATION
President: Darrell Russell
Vice President: Monte Madewell
Clerk: Tom Stiles
ICTC programs honored nationally
By Ronn Rowland MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Indian Capital Technology Center has long been an avenue for people to receive training to transition into the workplace.
Started in 2000, the ICTC Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt public corporation operating under a board of trustees that represents a cross-section of the communities ICTC serves.
ICTC is also proud to sponsor top-rated programs nationally to assist its students.
The radiology technology program has been named the second-best Radiology Tech School in the United States for 2025 by CollegeTransitions.com, a nationally recognized higher education and workforce training resource.
In the 2025 national rankings, ICTC placed second overall, following the University of Iowa at No. 1 and ranking ahead of the University of Mississippi at No. 3. This prestigious honor highlights ICTC’s long-standing commitment to excellence in health care education, hands-on clinical training, and workforce readiness.
“This national distinction is a tremendous honor for Indian Capital Technology Center and a testament to the excellence of our Radiology Technology program,” said Tony Pivec, ICTC superintendent. “Being rated the second-best radiology tech school in the United States reflects the dedication of our faculty, the strength of our clinical partnerships, and the hard work of our students. We are incredibly proud of this program and its continued commitment to preparing highly skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals.”
In March, ICTC sponsored "Explore Day" at the Muskogee Campus.
"We had a great time hosting eighth graders from our area partner schools," said Anesa Hooper, ICTC's district administrator for marketing. "Students had the opportunity to explore our full-time programs and learn more about what ICTC has to offer. We hope to see many of them back as future ICTC students in the 11th and 12th grades."
The school also announced that heavy equipment instructor Andrew Pilcher has been selected to serve on the SkillsUSA National Education Team for the Heavy Equipment Operation competition at the National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta.
Pilcher’s appointment is a prestigious three-year term, and he will occupy one of only five positions nationwide on the Heavy Equipment Operation National Education Team. Selection to the NET reflects a high level of professional expertise, industry knowledge, and commitment to student excellence.
Serving on the national competition team will provide Pilcher with direct insight into industry standards, competition expectations, and best practices from across the country. This experience will allow him to bring enhanced knowledge and cutting-edge techniques back to the ICTC Tahlequah Campus, further strengthening instruction and preparing students for success in both competition and career pathways.
Indian Capital Technology Centers Radiology Technology program has been named the second-best Radiology Tech School in the U.S. From left are: Kennedy Spears, Tracy Porter and Anna Green.
Connors State looks to the future
By Ronn Rowland MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Connors State President Ron Ramming speaks at a regents meeting. He announced in September that he will retire at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year.
Connors State College is looking to the future in several different ways.
Last September, CSC President Ron Ramming announced he is retiring at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year.
“This is a good time for transition for the institution,” Ramming said. “The college is very sound financially, strong academically. We have a talented and committed leadership team. They work well together.”
Ramming said he spent nearly all his adult life at Connors.
“When I was a student, there were people on campus who took an interest in me and my success,” he said. “The college has changed tremendously in how we teach classes.” Connors' public relations department said it's still on course with goals for the future.
“This has always been a student-focused institution,” Ramming said.
Near the end of the fall 2025 semester, the college received a $15 million gift from Yield Giving, founded by novelist and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
The funds will be managed by the CSC Development Foundation, according to a media release.
“We know we have plenty of needs here, but I know it is incumbent on us to be thoughtful and use the funds wisely on initiatives that align with our strategic plan,” Ramming said. “Hopefully we will use them in a way that has a lasting impact on the institution.”
The gift has no stipulations on its use, Ramming said.
Connors joins other Oklahoma and U.S. colleges receiving gifts from Yield Giving. According to its website, Northeastern State University received $17 million. The College of the Muscogee Nation received received $8 million, and Carl Albert State College received $23 million.
In August the college began offering a virtual health program, TimelyCare, for all students – residential and commuters.
“It is a great benefit for our students at no cost,” Ramming said. “It will be for all students 24-7.”
TimelyCare is an online platform that allows students to log in and connect with a health care provider through a video conference. Services include medical support for a variety of conditions, mental health support and health coaching.
BY THE NUMBERS
Total Students: 1997
GET TO KNOW YOUR LEADERS...
Muskogee City Council
Ryan Michael Lowe was elected as the new mayor of Muskogee on Feb. 10, 2026. Lowe is a lifelong resident of Muskogee, where he and his wife, Jodi, have raised two children. He is the owner and operator of 24K Pawn LLC, and 24K Auto Sales. Lowe was involved in the local racing scene for a short time.
Upon his election, Lowe said he is ready to "hit the ground running" when he takes office.
“I have the ability to speak with a diverse population with an open mind and a genuine willingness to listen. My work ethic is second to none; I don’t quit, and failure is not an option.
SHIRLEY
HILTON-FLANARY Ward 1
Hilton-Flanary is a lifelong Muskogee resident. She has been a mortgage banker in Muskogee for 51 years.
“If Muskogee is to secure a successful future, I believe there are two components that go hand in hand: Cultivation of a community that attracts younger generations and infrastructure improvements," Flanary said.
She said her favorite thing about Muskogee is its friendliness.
“It’s a great community to raise children,” she said. “Our cost of living, that’s another thing we have here. We’re surrounded by lakes. I think that’s a big plus.”
Incumbent Mike Brawley is in an April 7 runoff with Sheila Dause for two years remaining on an unexpired term.
Brawley has been involved in project management. He enjoys golf, watching college and pro football and serving nonprofits.
Dause is deputy Muskogee County treasurer. She loves gardening, being outdoors, taking cruises and seeing the world.
Brawley said: “I believe my responsibility as a citizen of Muskogee and current city councilor is to balance today’s needs with tomorrow’s realities."
Dause said: “I believe my responsibility as a citizen of Muskogee and current city councilor is to balance today’s needs with tomorrow’s realities. I strongly believe transparency in our local government is key to keeping the lines of communication open between officials and our taxpayers.”
Dan Hall is police chief for Muskogee Public Schools. He served on the council until 2019 and was reelected in 2024.
“To bring my experience of being a city councilor back to the council,” Hall said. “We have several big projects needing to get started with infrastructure and water treatment: pump stations, city streets, making the city a safer place to live and raise their families.”
Newly elected councilor Jeremy Schuler is vice president of recruiting and retention for Trucks For You. He said his hobbies include golf, watching sports and spending time with family and friends and "whatever my wife has planned for me.”
Schuler said he wants Muskogee to be a place for all families.
"We need transparency/accountability and the people need to know where and how their tax dollars are spent," he said.
Ward 3 Councilor Melody Cranford, who teaches fifth grade at Cherokee Elementary, was reelected to the position in April.
“I believe in the people of the city of Muskogee and I want to be a part of the growth I see taking place daily," she said. "I believe when we combine the vision I have for Ward 3 and the city as a whole with the vision of the other council members, we can see change that will move our city forward.”
She said infrastructure is of vital importance to economic growth.
“I believe the most pressing capital need currently facing the city is infrastructure. I think we should take advantage of our centralized location and invest in our infrastructure to support air, water, and ground transportation, which would lead to more competitive business opportunities for the Port.”
RYAN LOWE MAYOR
JEREMY SCHULER
MELODY CRANFORD Ward 3
MIKE BRAWLEY
DAN HALL Ward 2
Government
CITY COUNCIL
Derrick Reed has served on the council since 2012.
Reed, who oversees various programs at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, referenced the date of his victory with that of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last public speech before he was slain by an assassin. In that speech, many remember his phrase, “I’ve been to the mountaintop.”
It was April 3, 1968, when Dr. King gave his last public speech. On April 3, 2012, Reed stood in the old Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, giving his victory speech.
Tom Martindale said he owes it to Muskogee to pay back some of the benefits he’s received here.
“Since I started working here in Muskogee over 20 years ago, this city has been very good to me and my family,” Martingale said. “I ran for public office in an attempt to give back to this community.”
Martindale feels economic stability is important for Muskogee.
“Financial stability is always the foun-
GET TO KNOW YOUR LEADERS...
dation of any institution because without it there is no way to fund the many departments that provide the necessary services any city requires,” he said. “Developing the skillset to get the city officials and funding opportunities to work together has taken me a lifetime, and I look forward to bringing that experience to the council.”
Incumbent councilor Tracy Hoos faces former Councilor Traci McGee for reelection April 7.
Hoos is a pediatrician who was first appointed in July 2020 to the Muskogee City Council. Hoos graduated in 1994 from Hilldale High School.
"I care deeply about Muskogee and the people who live here," Hoos said. "As a lifelong resident, a pediatrician, and a current city councilor, I see firsthand how city decisions affect families, neighborhoods, and local businesses."
McGee is an entrepreneur and owner/agent of Act Now Insurance LLC.
"I lead with experience, consistency, and a clear understanding of how city government impacts everyday life," McGee said. "Having previously served as Ward 4 city councilor, I understand the responsibilities of the role and the importance of steady leadership."
Muskogee County Commissioners
KEN DOKE
Muskogee County Commissioner District 1
HOMETOWN: Muskogee.
FAMILY: Wife, Jodi; three children: Kaje, Kensli Faith, and Jenlee Hope.
OCCUPATION: Vice president, business development director at Arvest Bank in Muskogee.
EDUCATION: University of Phoenix, bachelors degree in business administration.
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION:
New Hope Assembly of God. HOBBIES: Hunting, fishing, shooting guns and spending time with family.
KEITH HYSLOP
Muskogee County Commissioner District 2
HOMETOWN: Webbers Falls.
OCCUPATION: County Commissioner, District 2; construction inspector, project manager.
District 14 Oklahoma representative, R-Fort Gibson
HOMETOWN: Fort Gibson
FAMILY: Wife, Joie Sneed; three children: Summer Brock, Cody Sloan and Keaton Sloan; one grandchild.
OCCUPATION: Business owner, Chris Sneed Insurance.
EDUCATION: Graduate of Hulbert High School; attended Murray State College and Northeastern State University.
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Member of Muskogee First Assembly
HOBBIES: Hunting, watching college football and baseball, playing golf.
CAPITOL ADDRESS: 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd.,
MUSKOGEE COUNTY EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE
Executive Director: Laurel Havens, NREMT-P
Phone: (918) 683-0130
Address: 200 Callahan St., Muskogee, OK 74403
Email: laurelh@mcems.us
OKLAHOMA HIGHWAY PATROL
Address: 1806 N. York St., Muskogee, OK 74403
Phone: (918) 683-3256
Room 404; Oklahoma City.
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Carol Sommer (405) 557-7310.
TIM TURNER
District 15, Oklahoma representative, R-Eufaula.
HOMETOWN: Checotah.
FAMILY: Wife, Brooke Turner; son, Sawyer.
OCCUPATION: Law enforcement.
EDUCATION: Associate's degree from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M; Bachelor's degree from University of Tulsa; master's degree from Northeastern State University; Ph.D from Oklahoma State University.
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: First Assembly, Stigler.
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: President Haskell County Livestock Committee, coaches Little League football.
CAPITOL ADDRESS: 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Room 302, Oklahoma City, OK, 73105; (405) 557-7375.
The Muskogee area has been a hub for health care needs for more than 100 years. Here are just a few of the services offered.
Saint Francis Muskogee
Address: 300 Rockefeller Drive.
Phone: (918) 682-5501.
Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee is a growing presence in the area. A seven-story tower recently added more than 150 private rooms to the hospital's existing 320 beds. The new wing also has a chapel, two-story lobby and expanded critical care units.
Saint Francis Health System also operates several Warren Clinics in Muskogee. They include family medicine, podiatry and imaging at 101 Rockefeller Drive, orthopedic surgery at 350 S. 40th St, heart and vascular services and gastroenterology at 384 S. 33rd St. There also is a Warren Clinic at 108 Lone Oak Circle in Fort Gibson.
Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center has met veterans' medical and mental needs for more than 100 years. The 89-bed facility offers primary and secondary levels of inpatient medical and surgical care, as well as an inpatient rehabilitation and inpatient behavioral health unit.
An east clinic, 2414 E. Shawnee Bypass, offers behavioral health services.
Muskogee County Health Department
Address: 530 S. 34th St. Phone: 918-683-0321.
The department offers a wide variety of medical services and programs to men, women, and children at little to no cost. Services include
disease treatment and prevention, family planning, child guidance, screening and special services.
Green Country Behavioral Health Services
Main Address: 619 N. Main St. Phone: (918) 682-8407.
Green Country Behavioral Health Services is a private, nonprofit agency providing comprehensive outpatient and crisis response services to clients of all ages in Muskogee. Services are confidential, effective, and easily accessible. GCBHS offers crisis intervention, mobile response services for children, families and adults who may be in crisis, facility-based crisis stabilization for adults, families and children; and Urgent Recovery services for adults and children.
A family wellness center at 6365 W. Okmulgee Ave. offers services for children and adults in crisis. There also is a center in Checotah and a mobile response service.
Arkansas Verdigris Valley Health Centers
Two locations: Muskogee GC Health Center, 110 W. Martin Luther King St.,
918-682-0222; and Muskogee West Health Center, 201 N. 32nd St., 918912-2333.
Arkansas Verdigris Valley Health Centers is a private, nonprofit organization that receives federal funding to focus on improving the health of the individual patients and improving the health status of the entire community. AVV provides medical, X-ray and behaviorial health services, along with substance abuse treatment, physicals, dental services, telehealth and weight loss management. The cost of services may
be based on a sliding fee scale, according to household size and income.
There also are centers in Porter and Coweta, as well as a mobile response RV.
Cherokee Nation
Three Rivers Clinic Address: 1001 S. 41st St. E. Phone: (918) 781-6500.
Cherokee Nation Health Services, a division of Cherokee Nation, provides nursing, nutritional, emergency medical, and behavioral and community health services. The center also offers treatment solutions for cancer and diabetes.
Cornerstone Speciality Hospital Muskogee
Address: 351 S. 40th St. Phone: (918) 682-6161.
Cornerstone Specialty Hospital Muskogee is a long-term acute care hospital specializing in the treatment of patients recovering from post-intensive care and medically complex conditions. The hospital provides both intensive care and telemetry-level services, offer-
A statue of Jesus welcomes visitors to the new wing at Saint Francis Hospital Muskogee.
NeoHealth's new Muskogee facility offers more space for exams and other procedures. The facility opens Monday.
ing advanced monitoring and support for patients requiring extended medical care.
Grace River Women's Health
Address: 347 S. 37th St. Phone: (918) 912-9500.
Grace River Women's Health strives to provide a personal, trustworthy, and superior experience for its patients. As a comprehensive stop for women’s care, it offers the best technology, treatment methods, and medical knowledge women need to navigate almost any female medical concern and remain healthy for years to come.
Fort Gibson Medical Clinic
Address: 104 Lone Oak Circle, Fort Gibson Phone: (918) 478-2101.
Part of the Northeastern Health System, the Fort Gibson clinic has offered primary care services to the area since 2008.
NEOHealth Center
Address: 922 N. York St. Phone: (918) 683-0470.
NeoHealth provides affordable quality health care to the residents in its service area. Doctors and staff are committed to keeping their patients healthy, at affordable rates. The staff will file claims to insurance
Health & Wellness
companies, Medicaid, SoonerCare or Medicare.
Urgent
Care of Muskogee
Address: 384 S. 33rd St. Suite E. Phone: (918) 686-0400.
Urgent Care of Muskogee is a full service facility with on-site X-rays and lab services. This includes treatment for all minor illnesses, such as colds, flu, coughs, infections, minor injuries, minor fractures, lacerations, minor burns, and many other non-life-threatening illnesses. Emergency room physicians and staff provide quality care for the patient to start feeling better fast. Urgent Care of Muskogee can also provide independent, competent, proactive and quality-based occupational health services to employers. They are committed to providing reliable, conve-
nient, and quality care to all of their patients.
Utica Park Clinic
Address: 615 S. 32nd St. Phone: (539) 239-5240
As part of the Utica Park Clinic system, the Muskogee clinic offers obstetrics and gynecology, plus family medical services including preventive checkups, vaccinations, medication and disease management.
The clinics offer nonemergency care visits, as well as behavioral health, occupational medicine and virtual primary care.
GCBHS is aprivate, non-profitagencyinbusinesssince 1979. We provide comprehensive outpatientmental health,substance abuse, andcrisisresponse servicestoclients of all agesinMuskogee andMcIntoshCounties. Services are CONFIDENTIAL, EFFECTIVE, and EASILY ACCESSIBLE We offer crisis intervention,mobileresponseservicesfor children,familiesand adults.
Take the firststepinyourrecover y; call or comebyone of ourlocations today.
Green Country Behavioral Health shares a building on Martin Luther King Street with one of Arkansas Verdigris Valley Health Centers.
Muskogee County Health Department health equity specialist Jeremy Colbert, right, puts a pair of gala apples in Louise Case’s bag at an OKFresh mobile market in 2024.
The Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center opened its doors June 14, 1923. A Department of Veterans Affairs report Monday recommended closing the 99-year-old hospital once the new facility opens in Tulsa.
Quality of Life Parks and Recreation parks and facilities
By Angel Ford MUSKOGEE PHOENIX
Beckman Park
North 16th St. and West Broadway Street.
Located in the heart of Founders Place Historic District, this 3.7-acre neighborhood park has a playground, splash pad, and picnic shelter.
Bill Pool Park
Gawf Lane and Foltz Lane.
This 2.5-acre park in Phoenix Village has picnic tables, a playground, and a basketball court.
Civitan Park
3301 Gibson St.
Daniel Boone’s son, Nathan, originally surveyed this 43-acre hillside park across the street from the Oklahoma School for the Blind. The eastern boundary of the park is the boundary of the Cherokee and Creek Nations. Amenities include a concrete trail that is 0.8 mile in length and is the meeting place for many regular park patrons. An 18-hole disc golf course is open to the public at no charge. Features include a splash pad with picnic areas, playground, open play areas, and a historic shelter that is available by reservation.
Coody Creek Bark Park
1121 S. 2nd St.
Coody Creek Bark Park is a 1.3-acre park with two fenced areas, one for smaller dogs and one for larger dogs. Park amenities include covered picnic areas, benches, drinking fountains, lots of shade, and agility play equipment for dogs.
Honor Heights
The Coody Creek Trailhead is next to the park with a 0.8-mile paved trail that intersects with S. Centennial Trail at 10th Street.
Depot Green
205 Elgin St.
Serving as the main trailhead for the Centennial Trail, Depot Green is a green space directly across from the 3 Rivers Museum. The park is home to a wide variety of community gatherings, festivals and events throughout the year, as well as weekly music, food trucks and lawn games throughout the summer. With a covered picnic table area and public restrooms, leashed pets are welcome to visit with their owners.
Douglas-Maxey Park
South Sixth Street and West Southside Boulevard.
This 2-acre park was, originally, two separate parks. Now considered a single park it has picnic areas, playground, open spaces, and a basketball court.
Elliott Park
Altamont Street and Tower Hill Boulevard.
One of Muskogee’s older
historic parks, Elliott Park, is situated on Tower Hill, the site of Muskogee’s first water tower. A rock pavilion gives a spectacular view. The 29acre grounds has picnic areas, playgrounds, lighted basketball courts, a shelter that is available for reservation. During summer days, the “Sprayground,” an interactive water playground, is in operation.
ESports Arena
600 Altamont St.
The arena is behind the Muskogee Teen Center, and offers 12 desktop consoles, as well as five large-format video screens, surrounded by plush seating. The center is open 3-11 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. Day passes are $20; half-day passes from 3-7 p.m. and evening passes after 7 p.m. are $10.
Grandview Park
3340 Grandview Park Blvd.
Grandview Park is home to a half-mile trail loop, a bike track and a rustic adventure playground. This park is the first of its kind in this area.
South Seventh Street and Elgin Street.
It's a 1-acre neighborhood park with shaded picnic areas, playground, and open play areas.
Honor Heights Park North Honor Heights Drive.
Originally purchased by the city of Muskogee in 1909, Honor Heights Park has proved to be the “the crown jewel in Muskogee’s park system.” The features of this 132-acre park makes it attractive to visitors year-round. There are many picnic areas, two picnic shelters, a pavilion, gazebos, and public restrooms. Activities such as fishing in five lakes and ponds from the shore of our fully accessible fishing docks, playground, open play areas, three tennis courts, and even a sand volleyball court are available. A splash pad, located next to the playground area, is in operation May-September. Honor Heights is home to three trails: Henry Bresser Nature Trail; the Audubon Trail, which is a favorite of local birders; and the half-mile Stem Beach Trail, which is a habit of local runners
Gulick Park
and walkers. The Papilion Gardens and Butterfly House operate April through October, hosting many events and guests throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons. The Butterfly House opens Mother's Day Weekend and welcomes visitors through the butterfly season. Its also home to the C. Clay Harrell Arboretum, Art Johnson Memorial Dogwood Collection, Elbert L. Little, Jr. Native Tree Collection, Azalea gardens, floral gardens, white garden, and at the top of Agency Hill, the Rainbow Division Memorial Amphitheater. Honor Heights Park is also home to the Azalea Festival and The Garden of Lights.
King Park Gibson Street and Eastside Boulevard.
This fenced-in park offers a shaded picnic spot and an open play area
Langston Park
Euclid Street and Sandlow Street.
This 2-acre park north of Shawnee Street has shaded picnic areas, a playground, an open area, and a basketball court.
Optimist Park
South "F" Street and Independence Street.
There is a shaded playground and picnic area in this 1.5-acre park. There is also a ballfield and an open play area.
Palmer Park
Honor Heights Drive and Denison Street.
This 2-acre park is named after early Park Superintendent George Palmer and has shaded and sunny picnic areas, a playground, open play area, and two fishing lakes.
River Country Water Park
3600 Arline Ave.
Two waterslides, a lazy river and children's play area offer watery fun through summer.
Robison Park
Augusta Street and Gulick Street.
This park offers a playground and sprayground with picnic areas, basketball courts, baseball/softball practice area, and soccer goals. Walking trails and outdoor fitness equipment are available as well.
Rooney Park
2300 Military Blvd.
This facility is an open 10-
Quality of Life
acre open field. A trail head and parking are available for Centennial Trail users.
Rotary Park
South 24th Street and Elgin Street.
Originally donated by the Rotary Club, this 3.5-acre park is home to a newly renovated playground and splashpad, picnic areas, open play area, pavilion, and two basketball courts.
Spaulding Park
East Okmulgee and Eastside Boulevard.
This park is home to 19 acres with many amenities and some of the first publicly planted trees in the city. There are picnic areas, a playground, open play areas, fully accessible swimming facility, three tennis courts, eight dedicated pickleball courts, the asphalt
multipurpose Spaulding Trail, a picnic shelter (reservations available), a gazebo surrounded by the water of the park's lake, two basketball courts, a fishing dock, and public restrooms. It's located directly next to the Parks & Recreation Administration offices.
Muskogee Swim and Fitness
566 N. Sixth St.
The Muskogee Swim and Fitness Center has a variety of fitness classes including yoga, circuit training, tabata, tai chi, spin and water aerobics. The fitness center has Muskogee’s largest indoor heated pool and offers cardio equipment and weight machines for all fitness levels. Fitness trainers are on staff to provide direction and personal training sessions, for an additional charge.
Services
LAKE AREA UNITED WAY COMMUNITY PARTNERS
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, INDIAN NATIONS COUNCIL
Serves over 18 counties in eastern Oklahoma. Scouting has helped build future leaders by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun and adventure in the outdoors; www. okscouts.org, (918) 743-6125.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF TAHLEQUAH
Provides youth development to Cherokee County youth by working to inspire, educate, and empower kindergarten-eighth graders to realize their full potential as productive and responsible citizens in a safe and fun environment; www.tahlequahbgca.org, (918) 456-6888.
GIRL SCOUTS OF EASTERN OKLAHOMA
Girl scouting equips young girls in making better life choices by developing leadership, confidence, and girls of courage through a variety of scouting programs; www. gseok.org, (918) 683-7738.
MUSKOGEE COUNTY COUNCIL OF YOUTH SERVICES — MCCOYS
Provides guidance and character building programs in two United Way funded areas: 1, supervised community experiences for youth and young adults working within the judicial system, and 2, in-school “Lifeskills” training for sixth through eighth graders at Braggs, Okay and Muskogee Public Schools; www.mccys.org, (918) 682-2841.
OK CIRCLE OF CARE - PAL
Faith-based agency provides foster care and prevention services throughout the state of Oklahoma; circleofcare.org, (918) 456-6166.
FOSTERING HOPE
Provides resources to children in foster care and the families who care for them. Programs include emergency duffel bags filled with essentials, To-Go birthday celebrations for children in care, the Teen
Ambassador Leadership Board, and the Hope House Respite Center — Oklahoma’s first respite home for foster families. Fostering Hope partners with community members, volunteers, and local agencies to ensure every child in foster care feels valued, loved, and seen; (918) 616-8143.
Day of Caring is an annual community-wide effort that brings together volunteers and local businesses to provide short-term, project-focused volunteer service to our community’s local nonprofit organizations. (Submitted)
children involved in juvenile cases of neglect and abuse in Muskogee, Wagoner and Sequoyah district courts; www.casaok.org, (918) 686-8199.
DOLLY PARTON IMAGINATION LIBRARY
Provides age appropriate books to children ages birth-5 years of age each month to boost children during the early formative years and put them on a path toward a successful education; www.lakeareaunitedway.org, (918) 682-1364.
AMERICAN RED CROSS
A volunteer-led humanitarian organization, United Way support touches lives daily with relief to victims of disasters as well as emergency and prevention/preparedness training; www.oklahomaredcross. org, (918) 682-1366.
BRIDGES OUT OF POVERTY
Focuses on empowering those in poverty to investigate the barriers that keep people from getting ahead and educates the entire community on the complexities of poverty; www.muskogeebridgesoutofpoverty.org, (918) 840-5331.
LEGAL AID SERVICES OF OKLAHOMA
Providing high-quality civil legal services to lower-income and elderly residents; www.legalaidok. org, (888) 534-5243.
CASA FOR CHILDREN IN MUSKOGEE — COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES
CASA recruits, screens, trains, and supports community volunteers to advocate in the best interests of
SALVATION ARMY
Provides essential programs 365 days a year, helping meet the needs of individuals in our community who needs it most; southernusa. salvationarmy.org/muskogee, (918) 682-3384.
CASA
OF CHEROKEE COUNTRY
Advocating as a voice for children who enter the court system as a result of abuse and/or neglect by providing trained volunteers to speak independently for the best interests of the children; www.oklahomacasa.org, (918) 456-8788.
GREEN
COUNTRY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES
Provides comprehensive outpatient and crisis response services to clients of all ages in Muskogee and McIntosh Counties. Services are
confidential, effective, and easily accessible; gcbhs.org, (918) 6828407.
KELLY B. TODD CEREBRAL PALSY & NEURO-MUSCULAR CENTER
Provides children and adults with motor deficit or developmental delays physical therapy to enhance mobility and interaction with friends and family; www.kbtoddcpcenter.org, (918) 683-4621.
KIDS’ SPACE – MUSKOGEE COUNTY CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER
Provides a child-friendly environment for the intervention, assessment, and investigation needed to assist with prosecution, treatment and prevention of physically and sexually abused children. Provides educational and child protective classes; www.kidsspacemuskogee.org, (918) 682-4204.
WOMEN IN SAFE HOME — WISH
Provides shelter, counseling, and support services to victims of domestic violence, rape, and adult survivors of child sexual assault or harassment in order to achieve safety, survival, recovery, empowerment and rehabilitation to women and children coping with domestic violence; (918) 682-7879.
Kim Jaquez Executive Director
Lake Area United Way 230 W. Broadway, Suite 200 Muskogee, OK 74401 918-682-1364
www.lakeareaunitedway.org
WHERE GLOBAL LEADERS CHOOSE TO INVEST
MUSKOGEE’S MOMENTUM IS REAL AND IT ’S JUSTTHE BEGINNING.
Muskogee is proving it cancompete—and win—on aglobal stage. In 2024, our city ranked #1 in Oklahoma forcapital investment. In 2025, that success accelerated as Google selected Muskogee fortwo data center campuses—marking the largest economic development investment in our community’s history
Behind that economic momentum is Port Muskogee. With nearly 3,000 acres of industrial land in the only micropolitan in Oklahoma with true multimodal access—rail, road, river,and runway—we’re preparing forwhat’s next. Newinvestments, expanding industries, and strategic infrastructureimprovements will help ensureMuskogee continues to be aplacecompanies pursue—not overlook—for generations to come. Learn moreatPor tMuskogee.com
