Newcomer Guide

Newcomers Guide

Regional/Executive Editor

General Manager/Advertising Director

Advertising Executive Chris Barnhart

Graphic Designer

Abby Bigaouette

Contributing Writers

Skyler Hammons

Lee Guthrie

Jake Sermershiem

Tesina Jackson

Layce Gardner

Contributing Photographers

JWD Droneography

Josh Newton

The Cherokee County Newcomers Guide, published yearly by the Tahlequah Daily Press, is a resource guide for newcomers to the Cherokee County area, longtime residents, and visitors. Material is updated yearly by the newsroom. Names found at the end of each section indicate the writer responsible, and any corrections should be addressed to them at news@tahlequahdailypress.com.

© 2024 Tahlequah Daily Press

Moving In and Hooking Up

Tahlequah is in the heart of Cherokee County and has a population of 17,049, with a daytime population of 20,000 owing to students on the local university campus. The median income is $32,050 and a median disposable income of $28,177. The unemployment rate is 2.1% with a labor force of 20,000. The median age is 30.7 years.

Education options include Northeastern State University, Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cherokee Nation, and Indian Capital Technology Center.

The city is 70 miles from Tulsa, and 68 miles from the Tulsa International Airport; 62 miles from Northwest Arkansas; and 63 miles from Northwest Arkansas National Airport. Muskogee is 29 miles from the city and offers a wide array of shopping options.

Located within 50 miles of Interstate 40 and 44, Highways 412, 69, and 59, there is easy access to the 48 contiguous states.

The area offers hiking, lakes, rivers, festivals, culture and jobs. The Tahlequah Regional Development Authority works at developing an economic climate that supports the growth of the city and recently was able to bring a large IT company to Tahlequah. A plan is in the works to develop a corridor of medical manufacturers along U.S. Highway 62 all the way into Siloam Springs, Arkansas.

Health care is a big plus for Tahlequah with services offered through the Cherokee Nation health system, and Northeastern Health System. Urgent care, optometry, dental, medical and many other services are available in the area through private service providers. The Cherokee County Health Department has a mobile unit that visits Tahlequah on a rotating basis, offering services to those who might not have health insurance.

Realtors

Several large firms with long histories of helping buyers and sellers to buy or sell property are located in Tahlequah and surrounding areas. These include Century 21 Wright Real Estate, RE/MAX, Property

Apartments

There are many multifamily housing options in Tahlequah, with choices for pet owners and number of bedrooms. Prices range from $625 to $1,000 a month. Deposits required vary by landlord and can range from a full first and last month’s rent to as low as a nonrefundable amount of $200.

Housing Rental

Single-family rentals range from $500 to $1,800 a month, or more. Leases are required for six months or a year, based upon management requirements. Monthto-month is also available in some properties, but usually cost more than if a lease is signed. Some properties come furnished and many offer one or more utilities paid or a pro-rated amount for one, such as water or trash, added to the cost of the rent.

Campus Life

Northeastern State University offers several options for on-campus housing. These include residential halls, family housing and upperclass apartments. Prices for housing range from $1,750-$3,000 for residence halls; $3,250-$4,150 for family apartments; and $2,600-$3,250 for upperclass apartments. Meal plans and housing rates can be found at offices.nsuok.edu/ housing/HousingRates.aspx.

Building Your Own

The city of Tahlequah has codes and zoning laws for new construction or renovation, and contractors work with

the city to be approved for building permits. If a zoning change is required, a petition can be made before the Planning Commission and approval received from the Tahlequah City Council. Outside the city limits, the requirements for building a home or business is more lenient. The city codes can be found at www. cityoftahlequah.com/DocumentCenter/ View/1938/City-of-Tahlequah-Zoning-Ordinance-81622.

Hooking Up

For hooking up to utilities, several options are available for electric service, depending on the area where one lives. A listing of utility providers can be found on page 13 of this magazine. For electric service, most residents receive service from Tahlequah Public Works Authority or Lake Region Electric Cooperative, and some might fall into Ozarks Electric’s territory. Natural gas service is provided by Northeast Oklahoma Public Facilities Authority. The city of Hulbert provides utilities through Hulbert Public Works Authority. Several propane vendors deliver to the Cherokee County area.

Lake Region Electric Cooperative

LREC is expanding its fiber optic network, and recently completed installation on one portion of Tahlequah. The work continues to expand high-speed internet access to residents. Even remote areas can get electric and internet service from LREC. Members receive service at competitive rates. LREC can be reached at 918-772-2526 or at www.recok.coop for information on rates and required deposits.

Solutions Management LLC, Cochran & Associates, Coldwell Banker Select, Keller Williams, Tenkiller Lake Realty, eXp Realty and many other independent realtors.

Tahlequah Public Works Authority

TPWA provides sewer, water and electric services to much of Tahlequah. Deposits are required and information can be found at www.tahlequahpwa.com or by calling 918-456-2564. A new billing service offers an easy way to view and pay a utility bill.

Hulbert Public Works Authority

HPWA offers natural gas and water services for Hulbert but does not offer electric service. To establish new service, a deposit is required. Some surrounding areas are also provided services by HPWA. To get more information, call 918-772-2503.

Tahlequah Cable TV/Cabelynx Broadband

Wifi and internet options are available at prices based upon speed desired. Services offered are broadband, an app for controlling services and access, streaming video and digital cable, with several packages offered. More information can be found at www.tahlequahcabletv.com.

Northeast Oklahoma Public Facilities Authority

Cherokee County is supplied with natural gas by NOPFA, which has been in business for about 60 years. Proof of residency, ID, and a deposit are required. Information can be found at www.nopfa.com.

Satellite Services

Several satellite services are available in Tahlequah, including Dish Network and DIRECTV. Dish can be reached at 800-333-3474 and DIRECTV at 800-777-2454.

Phone Service

Cell services is readily available to residents with a wide range of packages and services. Among those serving the area are T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile, AT&T,

COMPILED BY LEE GUTHRIE

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Numbers You Need

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9433057270365759591953092186117381932611793105118548074462379962749567351885752724891227938 1830119491298336733624406566430860213949463952247371907021798609437027705392171762931767523 8467481846766940513200056812789609173637178721468440988235378759409218611738193261179310511

Internet, Landline, Phone, Tv

AT&T: wireless service: 888-333-6651

Hughes Net: 866-931-1363

Tahlequah Cable TV: 800-903-0508

Lingo Communications: 866-405-4646

Fusion Connect: 888-301-1721

T-Mobile: 918-525-0748, 800-937-8997

Utilities

Hulbert Public Works Authority: 918-7722503

Lake Region Electric Cooperative: 918772-2526, 800-364-5732

OG&E: 800-272-9741

Ozark’s Electric Cooperative: 800-5216144

Tahlequah Public Works Authority: 918456-2564

City of Tahlequah Solid Waste Services: 918-456-8332

Lake Region Trash Service: 918-456-9839

Stacy’s Trash Service: 918-458-7243

Gas Companies

Northeast Oklahoma Public Facilities Authority: 918-456-6268

Water Companies

Cherokee County Rural Water District 1: 918-400-1043

Cherokee County Rural Water District 2: 918-772-2915

Cherokee County Rural Water District 3: 918-458-3040

Cherokee County Rural Water District 11, Hulbert: 918-772-2915

Cherokee County Rural Water District 13: 918-457-4690

Cherokee County Rural Water District 16, Cookson: 918-457-0075

Peggs Water Company: 918-772-2915

Tahlequah Public Works Authority: 918456-2564; emergency, 918-456-3591

Libraries

Hulbert Community Library: 918-7723383

Northeastern State University John Vaughan Library: 918-444-3235

Tahlequah Public Library: 918-456-2581

Post Offices

Tahlequah: 918-456-2381

Cookson: 918-457-5471

Hulbert: 918-772-2522

Park Hill: 918-456-0980

Peggs: 918-598-3212

Welling: 918-456-5631

County Offices

911 Addressing: 914 S. College Ave., 918458-6513

County Clerk: 918-456-3171

County Commissioners: 918-456-4121

Court Clerk: 918-456-0691

District Attorney: 918-456-6173

Cherokee County Emergency Management: 918-456-2894

Election Board: 918-456-2261

Health Department: 918-456-8826

OSU Extension: 918-456-6163

Cherokee County Tag Agent: 918-453-2889

City Offices

Hulbert City Hall: 918-772-2165

Municipal Court: 918-456-9472

Tahlequah City Hall: 918-456-0651

Tahlequah Street Commissioner: 918456-4661

Tahlequah Street Department: 918-4564661

Cherokee Nation

W.W. Keeler Tribal Complex: 918-453-5000

Cherokee Nation Tag (Tahlequah) Office: 918-453-5100

Career Services: 918-453-5555

ONE FIRE Victim Advocates: 918-772-4260

Law Enforcement

Oklahoma Highway Patrol: 918-683-3256

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office: 918456-2583

Tahlequah Police Department: 918-4568801

Hulbert Police Department: 918-7722020; after hours: 918-456-2583

NSU Campus Police: 918-444-2468

Grand River Dam Authority Police: 918256-0911

Cherokee Nation Marshal Service: 918-

207-3800

United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Lighthorse Police: 918-871-2811

Federal Bureau of Investigation, Muskogee Office: 918-687-7500

Hospitals And Ambulance Services

Cherokee Nation W.W. Hastings Hospital: 918-458-3100

Cherokee Nation EMS: non-emergency: 918-458-5403; emergency: 911

Northeastern Health System Tahlequah:{em} 918-456-0641

NHS ambulance: non-emergency: 918456-0641; {em}emergency, 911

Fire Departments, Non-Emergency

Tahlequah: 918-456-3131

Chicken Creek: 918-457-4721

Cookson: 918-457-4991

Gideon: 918-456-4052

Hulbert: 918-772-2165

Illinois River: 918-431-1080

Keys: 918-456-8093

Lowery: 918-456-6444

Norwood: 918-478-2022

Oaks: 918-868-3424

Peggs: 918-598-3665

Sparrow Hawk Village: 918-456-0200

Spring Valley: 918-772-3632

Woodall: 918-458-5219

Other Important Contacts

Animal Control: 918-456-1241

Help In Crisis: 918-456-0673; Crisis line: 800-300-5321

Child/Adult Abuse Hotline: 800-522-3511

John A. Ketcher Youth Services Center: 918-458-4440

KI BOIS Area Transit System (KATS): 918-453-1155

Poison Control Center: 800-222-1222

Oklahoma Works American Job Center: 918-456-8846

LEE GUTHRIE

From Place to Place

There are many modes of transportation available in Cherokee County, whether patrons are from the area or are just visiting the Illinois River or Cherokee Nation. With it now being four years post-COVID-19, many rules and restrictions have returned to normal – or what now might be called the standard.

Driver’s Licenses Testing

For many, a driver’s license can offer a sense of freedom. Those who want to get licenses can complete the process at Tahlequah Licensing and Exams at 100 S. Phoenix Ave., southwest of the State Highway 51-Choctaw Street intersection.

The office provides residents with options for those wanting to get their licenses, including a road test, written test, renewals for driver’s licenses, identification cards, and a commercial driver’s license test, accompanied by a written test. The services are only offered Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon and 1-4:45 p.m.

The afternoon at the office is when the driving skills test is taken for the Class D and motorcycle licenses. The morning session allows for applications to be completed for all of the writing and driving tests, ID card applications, and license applications and transfers.

Applicants must pass the written exam before they can move on to the driving tests. Appointments are no longer scheduled, but walk ins are allowed. For those needing a spot to be held in line, they can contact 405-522-7000. Fees for licenses will have to be paid at the same location the test is taken.

The test for a learners permit is free, while the actual permit is $42.50 and a driver’s license fee is $40.69. When an applicant fails the exam, a $4 is added. All Oklahoma driver’s licenses that are Real IDs can be used for domestic flights.

The Cherokee County Tag Agency at 25 Plaza South St. also allows people to take a driving and written test in house.

License Renewals

For a driver’s license renewal, a tag agency can be of assistance.

Immigrants needing a renewal should call the tag agency ahead of time to know what documentation needs to be brought, which can include a birth certificate, license, and/or immigration documents.

The Cherokee County Tag Agency is available for those needing to receive a renewal for their license, as well as a their CDL. The agency is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at 25 Plaza South St. For more information, call 918-453-2889 or email tahlequahtagagent@yahoo.com.

Tag agents not only offers renewals to licenses and tags, but residents can venture to find applications for handicap parking, record requests, PikePasses, and driver’s manuals.

To receive a state identification card or duplicate, the patron must pay $25, and have a valid address in the state and a state-issued birth certificate.

Tribal Licenses and Tags

The Cherokee Nation Tag Office is open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The office is at 120 E. Ballentine Road, and it offers Cherokee Nation citizens tags for motor vehicles, boats, and cars. The motor vehicle tags cover a wide range of equipment, including commercial vehicles, RVs, travel trailers, and farm trucks. Those who are physically disabled, have served in the military, or need a personalized or specialized tag can also receive one from the tag office.

Those wanting to purchase a tag –other than those for boats – have to bring various documentation. The owner of

the boat must bring the title, a driver’s license, tribal membership card, proof of insurance and residence lien information, and a Cherokee Nation certificate of title application. Online tag renewals can be done for regular-class vehicles at tagoffice. cherokee. Those with a boat need to bring separate information for a tag, such as a VIN number, proof of residency, driver’s license, bill of sale, a completed application, tribal citizenship card, and lien information. For more information, call 918-453-5100.

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Tag Agency is open from Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The office is at 18300 W. Keetoowah Circle. Even though it is not required to for renewals, Keetoowah members will receive a renewal notice for their vehicle registration. Much like the previous tag agencies, UKB citizens have to show lien information, a bill of sale for new purchases, a UKB membership card, title, and insurance verification.

When it comes to the monetary transaction portion, the tag agency does not accept personal checks, but does take cash. A cashier’s check can also be a way to pay by making it out to Keetoowah Tag Agency or Keetoowah Band Tax Commission. Digital payments will include a $3 charge, and the options available include Google Pay, MasterCard, Apple Pay, American Express, and Discover.

Forms should be filled out prior to walking in the doors at the Keetoowah Tag Agency; forms can be found at www.

ukb-nsn.gov/tag-agency. For more information, call 918-871-2770

Passports

For those wanting to take a trip, the Cherokee County Clerk’s Office allows residents to receive renewal and first-time passport applications. A passport application can be acquired by the either going to the clerk’s office at 213 W. Delaware St. Room 302 or travel.state.gov. The passport forms for newbies have to be submitted in person, and in case of unexpected delays, the applications should be filled out as soon as possible.

Fees for renewals and newbies are $130 a piece, with a $35 acceptance fee. The price for a passport is dependent on many factors and should be checked at https:// travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html.

Vehicle Rentals

For those needing to rent a vehicle in Cherokee County, Economy Auto Rental at 324 S. Muskogee Ave. can be a resource. For more information, call 918-456-2013.

Boats

Tag agencies can provide boat tags, which are renewable for one or three years. Boats meant for transport on state waters with outboard motors of more than 10 horsepower must have a title and registration purchased each year.

Renewals do not have to be done in person, as it can be completed at ok-cars. tax.ok.gov. Owners of the watercraft will either receive an email or registration card from the Oklahoma Tax Commission a month before the expiration date. For more information, call the Motor Vehicle Division at 405-521-3221.

Public Transportation

Those who need assistance in getting from Point A to Point B can do so through the the different public transportation services offered. There some limited ride-sharing options available, including Uber and Fetch Girl. The latter can be contacted by texting 918-774-2510.

UKB tribal members and the public have access to demand-response transportation through the UKB Transit Department. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at 17885 Louie Griffin Circle. The last call for rides is at 4 p.m., and the resource only serves within the nine UKB districts and destinations, like Tulsa, that are right outside of jurisdiction.

For more information on fees, schedules, and cancellations, go to https://

www.ukb-nsn.gov/transit. Call for more informaiton on specific routes and all other questions, 1-888-866-6705 or 918871-2790.

Sooner Ride, which helps users get to SoonerCare appointments, can have arrangments made for pick ups and drop offs.

To schedule a ride, patrons must call 877-404-4500 from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. When contacting Sooner Ride, people should make sure htey have the folling information at hand: a current Sooner Ride ID number, appointment informantion, address and phone number for the facility, and reason for the appointment.

For more information, go to https:// oklahoma.gov/ohca/individuals/soonerride.html.

The Ki Bois Area Transit System (KATS) can be found at 1052 S. Muskogee Ave. with hours of operation being Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Rides can be scheduled by calling 918-453-1155. Contract hours for TANF, job routes, and SoonerRides vary.

In town prices for adults and children 10 years old and older are $2 a stop, while those between 5 and 9 years old are $1 for each stop, and those younger than 4 are free. Transportation options are partially paid for by the Cherokee Nation, and they require a 72-hour notice prior to the trip. Trips in the city limits are 50 cents per

stop. Trips outside of town are based on the availability of vehicles and time.

Sooner Cab can also be used for public transport, with rates dependent on the locations. For more information, call 918207-8381.

Airports

Those needing to take to the sky can do so even in Tahlequah through public and private airports. Peggs, Snake Creek in Cookson, and Whitehorn Cove offer private airports, but pilots must have permission before landing to use the runway.

About a mile southwest of Cookson, the Tenkiller Lake Airport can be found with its 2,600-foot by 75-foot turf runway. The public airpark is run by the Cherokee County Commissioners and does not have an on-site office. For more information, call 918-456-4121, 918-931-0601, or 918457-4095.

The Tahlequah Municipal Airport, at 2100 Airport Parkway, has a 5,001-foot by 75-foot asphalt runway. The airport features a terminal with private hangars, a visitors lounge, a flight training room, meeting room, a flight planning room, and fuel pumps.

For more information, email blambert@cityoftahlequah,com or call 918431-4139 during the day or 918-708-5600 after hours.

COMPILED BY SKYLER HAMMONS

Your Leaders

District 2 U.S. Congress

Josh Brecheen, Republican

Claremore: 223 W. Patti Page Blvd.

Phone: 918-283-6262

Washington: 1208 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515

Phone: 202-225-2701

Websites

U.S. Senate: https://www.senate.gov

U.S. House: https://www.house.gov

State Senate: https://www.oksenate.gov

State House: https://www.okhouse.gov

State Election Board: https://oklahoma.gov/elections.html

State Representatives

District 4:

Bod Ed Culver, Republican

Phone: 405-557-7408

District 14:

Chris Sneed, Republican

Phone: 405-557-7310

District 86:

David Hardin, Republican Phone: 405-557-7394

State Senators

U.S. Senators

Markwayne Mullin, Republican

Tulsa: 1924 S. Utica, Suite 530, Tulsa, OK 74104

Phone: 918-718-5111

Washington: B33 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510

Phone: 202-224-4721

James Lankford, Republican

Tulsa: 401 S. Boston Ave., Suite 2150, Tulsa, OK 74103

Phone: 918-581-7651

Washington: 316 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510

Phone: 202-224-5754

County Commissioners

District 3: Blake “Cowboy” Stephens, Republican

Phone: 405-521-5574

District 9: Dewayne Pemberton, Republican

Phone: 405-521-5533

District 18: Jack Stewart, Republican Phone: 405-521-5590

Cherokee County Departments

District 1:

Bobby “Cub” Whitewater

Phone: 918-822-2154

District 2:

Chris Jenkins

Phone: 918-772-3552

District 3: Clif Hall

Phone: 918-458-6503

JASON CHENNAULT, COUNTY SHERIFF 918-456-2583

JOANNA CHAMPLAIN, COUNTY TREASURER 918-456-3321

CHERYL TRAMMEL, COUNTY CLERK 918-456-3171

LESA ROUSEY DANIELS, COURT CLERK 918-456-0691

STEPHANIE HAMBY-TEAGUE, COUNTY ASSESSOR 918-456-3201

JACK THORP, DISTRICT ATTORNEY 918-456-6173

Ward 1: Danny Perry

Email: dperry@ tahlequah.gov

Mayor:

Suzanne Myers

Phone:

918-456-0651

Fire Chief:

Casey Baker

Phone:

918-456-2424

City Hall: 111 S. Cherokee Ave., 918456-0651

City Administrator: Taylor Tannehill, 918-456-0651

Human Resources: M’Lynn Pape, director, 918-456-0651

Planning and Development: Taylor Tannehill, director 918- 456-0651

Tahlequah Municipal Airport: Brian Lambert, manager, 918- 431-4139

Building Inspector: Richard Coffron, 918-456-0651

Emergency Management: Mike Underwood, 918-456-2894

Animal Control: Vicky Green, 918456-1241

Sanitation Department: Chris Armstrong, superintendent, 918-456-8332

Parks and Recreation Department: Brian Speake, superintendent, 918-4560651

Cemetery Department: Jennifer Cruwell, clerk, 918-456- 0651

Tahlequah Public Works Authority: Mike Doublehead, general manager, 918-456- 2564

City Councilors

Ward 2: Keith Baker

Email: kbaker@ tahlequah.gov

Ward 3: Stephen Highers

Email: shighers@ tahlequah.gov

City Officials

Treasurer: Marty Hainzinger

Phone:

918-456-0651

Police Chief: Nate King

Phone: 918-456-8801

City Departments

Compliance Coordinator: Ray Hammons, 918-456-0651

Code Compliance: Ryan Young, 918456-0651

Maintenance Department: Mark Manship, superintendent, 918-456-0037

City Judge: Rachel Dallis, 918- 456-9472

City Attorney: John Tyler Hammons, B.J. Baker, 918- 456-0651

Stormwater Department: Dane Lee, 918-456-0651

Tahlequah City Board Meetings

Tahlequah City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month in City Hall council chambers at 5:30 p.m.

Tahlequah Regional Development Authority meets the third Wednesday of each month in City Hall council chambers at 4 p.m.

Tahlequah Airport Board meets the third Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Airport Terminal Building.

Tahlequah City Hospital Authority meets the second Monday of each month

Ward 4: Josh Allen

Email: jallen@ tahlequah.gov

City Clerk: Whitney Shaw

Phone: 918-456-0651

Street Commissioner: Kevin Smith

Phone: 918-456-4661

at 5 p.m. in the Medical Park Board Room at Northeastern Health System.

Tahlequah Historic Preservation Board meets the third Monday of each month at 3:30 p.m. at City Hall council chambers.

Tahlequah Planning Commission meets the last Tuesday of each month at 3 p.m. at the City Hall council chambers.

Northeast Oklahoma Public Facilities Authority meets the third Monday of each month at the NOPFA Conference Room at 1 p.m.

Tahlequah Abatement Board meets the first Monday of the month at 4 p.m. in the council chambers at City Hall.

Tahlequah Public Works Authority meets the third Friday of each month at 9 a.m. at the TPWA facility on Choctaw Street.

Tahlequah Public Facilities Authority meets the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the City Hall council chambers.

COMPILED BY TESINA JACKSON

Your Government

Cherokee County residents can stay connected and up-to-date as several elections are held throughout the year. The Cherokee County Election Board is at 914 S. College Ave. and is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Tiffany Rozell is the secretary, while Connie Parnell and Bob McAlpine serve on the three-member board. The office employs precinct workers and staff at the election board office, who are on site to help you fill out a new voter registration form or find out where to cast your ballots.

City Government

Tahlequah has an aldermanic form of government. City Councilors are elected from each of the city’s four wards, while the mayor is elected at large. Tahlequah residents also elect a city treasurer, city clerk, street commissioner, and chief of police. If approved by the voters, proposals to the City Charter could amend how and which officials are elected.

County Government

Three county commissioners serve as the governing board for the county with each commissioner elected every four years by district. Voters also elect a county clerk, treasurer, assessor, sheriff, and court clerk.

State Government

Oklahoma has a 48-member Senate and a 101-member House of Representatives. All senators and representatives are elected by districts, which cross county lines in some areas.

Getting Registered

Those who are wanting to register to vote can find forms at the Cherokee County Election Board, post offices, tag agencies, and libraries. Or you can visit the Oklahoma State Election Board website. You will receive a voter ID card that you will be asked to show when you vote at your assigned precinct.

Political Parties

Voters in Cherokee County can register as Republican, Democrat, Independent, or Libertarian. The Republican and Democratic parties both operate women’s organizations in Cherokee County.

Voting Precincts

Precinct 1 — St. Brigid Catholic Church, 807 Crafton St.

Precinct 2 — Calvary Assembly of God, 1005 E. First St.

Precinct 3 — Southside Baptist Church, 300 Parker St.

Precinct 4 — Armory Municipal Center, 100 N. Water Ave.

Precinct 5 — Armory Municipal Center, 100 N. Water Ave.

Precinct 6 — Keys Community Building, 19083 E. 840 Road.

Precinct 7 — Armory Municipal Center, 100 N. Water Ave.

Precinct 8 — Illinois River Fire Department, 20385 E. Steely Hollow Road.

Precinct 9 — Cookson Methodist Church, 21685 W. Cookson Bend Road.

Precinct 10 — Keys Community Building, 19083 E. 840 Road.

Precinct 11 — Shady Grove School, 1042 W. Shady Grove Road.

Precinct 12 — Lowrey VFD, 9775 Highway 82A North.

Precinct 13 — Briggs School, 17210 S. 569 Road.

Precinct 14 — Lost City Community Building, 13251 N. Lost City Road.

Precinct 15 — Norwood Baptist Church, 20980 Highway 80.

Precinct 16 — Peggs Community Center, 11050 E. Hickory Ave.

Precinct 17 — Crescent Valley Baptist Church, 25641 S. Crescent Valley Road.

Precinct 18 — River Valley Baptist Church, 8229 N. Highway 10.

Precinct 19 — Crescent Valley Baptist Church, 25641 S. Crescent Valley Road.

Precinct 20 — Generations Church, 3229 S. Muskogee Ave.

Precinct 21 — Welling General Baptist Church (activity building) 20445 S. 560 Road.

Precinct 22 — Tenkiller School, 25106 E. 863 Road.

Precinct 23 — Grace and Peace Fellowship, 8198 N. 450 Road.

Precinct 25 — Hulbert City Hall, 111 W. Main St.

Precinct 27 — Briggs School, 17210 S. 569 Road.

Precinct 28 — Welling General Building, 20445 S. 560 Road.

Precinct 29 — Illinois River Fire Department, 20385 E. Steely Hollow Road.

Precinct 30 — Calvary Assembly of God, 1005

E. First St.

Precinct 31 — Calvary Assembly of God, 1005

E. First St.

COMPILED BY TESINA JACKSON

Help is on the Way

The community of Tahlequah is eager to help those in need, and many organizations stand ready to assist. Food pantries, free meals and a backpack program through Tahlequah Public Schools are just a few of the many organizations ready to help. Programs supporting those dealing with substance abuse or domestic violence, homelessness, or mental health are staffed by volunteers and paid professionals. Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings are held often and Tahlequah’s first responders stand ready to assist in all situations and weather conditions for those in crisis.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Meetings are held every day for those needing a support group.

Eastside AA meets Monday-Saturday at noon and 8 p.m. and on Sunday, 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. at 812 E. Ward St.

A Woman’s Way meets Monday at 7 p.m. and Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at 1540 Echota Ave., in the NIWHRC Conference Center.

Chapter 5 Group meets Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at 16414 W. 760 Road.

Bottoms Up meets Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at 20443 E. Allen Road, Church of the Nazarene.

Hulbert Group meets Tuesday and Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at S. Birch St. and E. 5th Street, Hulbert, at the Methodist Church.

“Meeting Guide,” a free app for Alcoholics Anonymous meetings is updated weekly on locations and times and can be found on Google Play or the Apple Store.

Care Food Pantry

The CARE Food Pantry was formed in response to Jesus’ command to feed the hungry. All residents of Cherokee County are eligible to receive help from the pantry, and an ID is all that is required. Hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The pantry is at 315 E. Oak St. in the First Presbyterian Church. Residents may visit the pantry every 30 days. Several churches serve on the board and the pantry is supported by local organizations. The pantry can be contacted at 918-458-5338.

Tahlequah Day Center

The Day Center offers a hot lunch every day of the week from 11:30 a.m12:30 p.m., and sack lunches can be picked up in lieu of a hot meal or from 7:30 a.m.1 p.m. Shower facilities can be used Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Clothing and blankets are also available and a case manager can help with acquiring IDs, birth certificates and other important documents. The center is at 309 S. Muskogee, which is the same address as the Zöe Institute, and can be accessed from the alley. The phone number is 918-453-9778 and can be reached by email at contact@ tahlequahdaycenter.com.

Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma Inc.

For those in trouble with a civil issue –not criminal – and cannot afford an attorney, the Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma may be able to help if a person qualifies as low-income or is a senior in Oklahoma. An application form can be found at www. legalaidok.org/if-you-need-help. Once the form is filled out, call 918-708-1150. The Tahlequah office is at 224 S. Muskogee Ave. and serves Adair, Cherokee, Craig, Delaware, Ottawa, and Sequoyah counties.

Feed My Sheep

First United Methodist Church at 301 W. Delaware St. serves a hot meal to anyone who walks through their doors every Thursday from 5-6 p.m. Bilal Chaudhry is the organizer of this weekly meal service and can be reached at 813-919-9500. The meals are brought out to the tables restaurant-style by volunteers. All are welcome, regardless of circumstances.

Help In Crisis

The mission statement for Help In Crisis

states the organization exists to break the cycle of violence for victims and their children through transformational care that seeks to educate and empower. Located at 205 N. College Ave., the staff works diligently to help families in danger from domestic violence and sexual assault. The phone number for the physical location is 918-456-0673, and the hotline number is 1-800-300-5321. An emergency shelter is available for those in danger from a stalker or violent partner.

OsiyoMen’sTahlequah Shelter

The men’s shelter provides shelter to those without, to feed those who are hungry, and to offer assistance and an avenue to self-sufficiency for homeless men. The shelter has beds for men who are unhoused and helps find support systems for those struggling with substance abuse or other life issues that have lead to being unhoused, including education and housing. The shelter is at 118 W. Keetoowah St., and can be reached at 918-708-9474. More information is available at the shelter’s Facebook page: Osiyo Tahlequah Men’s Shelter.

Zöe Institute

The Zöe Institute began as a resource center to help single mothers with a place to get food and clothing. The organization has expanded and is now a multifunctioning agency that provides temporary relief and help to find long-term solutions for clients to find needed services. They support the Hands of Grace Warehouse, Day Center, Back Pack Program, Back to School Program, and Celebrate Recovery. The executive office is at 309 S. Muskogee Ave., and can be reached at 918-453-9778. Their website is www.zoeinstitute.com.

COMPILED BY LEE GUTHRIE

To The Rescue

Cherokee County has a unique and wide range of first responders who are prepared to act in times of an emergency, crisis or disaster. The county has two ambulance services, nearly a dozen fire departments, and several law enforcement agencies that respond to the scene in times of medical emergencies, fires, and any urgent situation that might arise.

Cherokee County 911

The Cherokee County 911 emergency response system was approved by voters and formed in 1994. The county’s 911 Trust Authority was chosen by county commissioners in 1995, and in 1996, mapping and readdressing of the county began. The county’s 911 office recently consolidated with all county, city and tribal 911 dispatch services and is located at the Tahlequah Police Department.

Ambulance Services

Northeastern Health System and the

Cherokee Nation have ambulance services that respond to emergency and nonemergency calls in Cherokee County. Cherokee Nation Emergency Medical Service became the first tribe in the U.S. to achieve accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services.

Fire Departments

Cherokee County has several rural fire departments and many are operated by volunteer firefighters who perform fire suppression and other related emergency services. The city of Tahlequah has two fire stations – one on Chickasaw Street and another in the Southridge neighborhood. The Tahlequah department is led by Fire Chief Casey Baker.

Law Enforcement

There are numerous law enforcement agencies patrolling Cherokee County and its communities, such as the Tahlequah and Hulbert Police Departments, the Northeastern State University campus police, the Cher-

okee County Sheriff’s Office, the Grand River Dam Authority, and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service. State and federal agencies such as the Oklahoma Highway Patrol; Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation; the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshal Service; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation also assist in investigating local criminal cases.

OperationsEmergencyCenter

Tahlequah-Cherokee County Emergency Management officials keep watch of Oklahoma’s weather – a fierce ice storm, or strong thunderstorm that might spawn tornadoes. Tahlequah and Hulbert have severe weather sirens. Mike Underwood is the Tahlequah-Cherokee County EM director and volunteers act as storm spotters for the EM office. The University Center basement at NSU is the only public shelter in Tahlequah.

COMPILED BY TESINA JACKSON

Clinic Directory

FORT GIBSON MEDICAL CLINIC

104 Lone OakCircle, Fort Gibson, OK 74434

Phone 918-478-2101, Fax 918-478-6008

Donald Elgin, MD—Family Medicine

Susan Miller, APRN-CNP—Family Medicine

Lisa Renfrow, APRN-CNP—Family Medicine

Ryan Pitts, DO—Orthopedics &Sports Medicine

Vanessa Dicus, APRN-CNP—Family Medicine-PainManagement

TAHLEQUAH MEDICAL GROUP PRIMARY CARE

1201 ERoss Bypass, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-207-0991, Fax 918-456-7570

Edith Lubin, MD Family Medicine

Lana Myers,DO– Family Medicine

Thomas Schneider, DO- Internal Medicine

Stephanie Fossett, APRN-CNP– Family Medicine

Deanna Wright,APRN-CNP- Women’s Health

URGENT CARE

1201 E. Ross Bypass, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-453-1234, Fax 918-453-2703

Madyson Snow,APRN-CNP

ENT &ALLERGY CLINIC

1203 E. Ross Bypass,Tahlequah,OK74464

Phone 918-453-9002, Fax 918-453-0328 (Humphrey)

Phone 918-207-0305, Fax 918-453-9068 (McDonald)

Lea Humphrey, DO R. Hilton McDonald, DO

NORTHEAST OKLAHOMAHEART CENTER

1373 E. Boone St,Suite 3400, Tahlequah,OK74464

Phone 918-229-1431, Fax 918-453-2226

Jack Casas, MD- Interventional Cardiologist

Stephen Dobratz, MD-Interventional Cardiologist

Carla Hayes, APRN-CNP Christopher Webber, APRN-CNP

Dillon Jarrett, APRN-CNP Celeste Bidwell APRN-CNP

NEPHROLOGYCLINIC

1373 E. Boone St, Suite 1201, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-207-1189, Fax 918-207-1160

Bilal Aziz, MD Imran Tahir, MD

Florame Jamison, DNP, APRN Sean Scearce, PA-C

RADIATION ONCOLOGY

1400 EDowning, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-458-2492, Fax 918-458-2471

Frederick Willison, MD

PULMONOLOGY CLINIC

1373 E. Boone St, Suite 2300, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-207-0025, Fax 918-207-0226

Creticus Marak, MD

INTERNAL MEDICINE RESIDENCY CLINIC

1373 EBoone St, Suite 2300, Tahlequah,OK74464

Phone 918-207-0025, Fax 918-207-0226

Program Director –Muneeza Afif, MD

Adrita Ashraf, DO Mark Bannon, DO

Stephen Bastible, DO Blair Brown, DO

Byan Butel, DO Eric Dahlquist, DO

Priyanka Deshmukh, MD Landon Frank, DO

Seth Jones, DO Ali Khan, DO

Sascha Khan, DO Harsha Patel, DO

Connor Polson, DO Bryan Hummel-Price, DO

Matthew Reddick, DO Paige Sanders, DO

Hunter White, DO

GASTROENTEROLOGY CLINIC

205 Harris Circle, Suite 201, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-506-6880, Fax 918-506-6881

Lori Ford, MD Sarah Oberste,DO

Jennifer Carter, APRN Leslie Davenport, APRN

SURGERY CLINIC

205 Harris Circle, Suite 202, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-207-1410, Fax 918-207-0335

D. Brent Rotton, DO– General Surgery

W. Jack Myers, DO– General Surgery

James Smith, MD—Surgical Oncology Gery Hsu,MD– Neurosurgery

Michelle Perry, APRN—Neurosurgery

NEUROLOGY CLINIC

1373 E. Boone St, Suite 2300,Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone918-207-0025, Fax 918-207-0226

Saqib Chaudhry, MD Samiya Rashid, DO

Vishal Jani, MD Christopher Glisson, DO

Matthew Smith, MD M. Umar Farooq, MD

MEDICALONCOLOGY

228 NBliss Ave, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-506-6920, Fax 918-506-6993

Theodore Pollock, DO

RHEUMATOLOGY CLINIC

1373 E. Boone St, Suite 2300,Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-207-0025, Fax 918-207-0226

Prashant Kaushik, MD

WOUND MANAGEMENT

205 Harris Circle, Suite 102, Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-458-2487, Fax918-458-2485

D. Brent Rotton, DO Stephanie Paine, APRN

ADDICTION RESOURCE CENTER

1323 W. Keetoowah St., Tahlequah, OK 74464

Phone 918-931-3890, Fax 918-506-6800

Jason Ballew,MDJennifer Mathis, MD

Alicia Sanders, APRNMichael Holt, APRN

Good Medicine

Cherokee County boasts several services focused on providing for its residents’ physical and mental health. Tribal members can get care from the Cherokee Nation and others can find help at many area facilities and clinics, some of which are nonprofit, with fees based on a sliding scale.

Northeastern Health System

Communities in northeastern Oklahoma have turned to NHS for regional healthcare for decades. The system is continuously being updated and expanded to provide more services for people as it actively tries to recruit the best health care professionals available. Patients visiting the hospital’s emergency room are treated by emergency medicine board-certified physicians, while inpatients have access to a support staff of physicians’ assistants, nurse practitioners and other medical professionals. NHS can be contacted at 918-456-0641.

Cherokee Nation Health Services

Cherokee Nation citizens and members of other federally recognized tribes can receive medical care at multiple clinic sites throughout the Cherokee Nation’s 14-county jurisdiction. The recently expanded W.W. Hastings Hospital is in Tahlequah and boasts the largest tribal outpatient health center in the country. The 469,000-square-foot, four-story outpatient health center has examination rooms, an ambulatory surgery center, MRI machines, primary care, dental services, full-service optometry and specialty health services like podiatry and diabetes programs. CNHS has also recently partnered with Oklahoma

State University to create the first tribally affiliated medical school on tribal land in the United States: the OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine at Cherokee Nation. Hastings Hospital can be reached at 918458- 3100. The CN Outpatient Center can be reached at 539-234-1000. For more information, visit health.cherokee.org.

NeoHealth

Northeastern Oklahoma Community Health Centers, NeoHealth, offers primary and specialty care health services at clinics across the region, including those in Hulbert, Tahlequah, Muskogee, Salina, Pryor, and Westville. NEO’s mission is to provide affordable quality health care to everyone in the communities that it serves. NeoHealth offers 14 clinics in four counties that offer family medicine, ENT, pediatrics, obstetrical and gynecological, pharmacy, and behavioral health services. As a Federally qualified health center, they also offers a sliding fee scale to those that fall within the income guidelines. More information is available at neohealth.org, or 918-772-3390.

CREOKS Health Services

CREOKS is a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive health, wellness and social services with 24 locations across the eastern portion of Oklahoma. The Tahlequah location is at 711 S. Muskogee Ave. and can be reached at 918-207-0078.

Addiction Resource Center

Devoted to treating substance abuse, the Northeastern Health System ARC, at 1323 W. Keetoowah St., has a wide range of treatment programs, such as the Opioid Treatment Program, Addiction Medicine Specialty Clinic, and the Intensive Outpatient Program. The ARC serves 138 active patients and has treated over 900 since its certification just over one year ago. The ARC can be reached at 918-931-3890.

Cherokee County Health Department

The health department offers immunizations, family planning services, and many other general health services. CCHD also performs restaurant inspections, rabies investigations, food handlers school, and works with area health organizations to offer vaccine clinics. It offers a Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program and a general clinic. CCHD can be reached at 918-456-8826.

Urgent Care

No appointment is necessary to visit the Northeastern Health System Urgent Care on the Bertha Parker Bypass. Urgent Care offers treatment and services for many illnesses and injuries. This urgent care can be reached at 918-453-1234.

COMPILED BY TESINA JACKSON

OSIYOAND WELCOME TO TAHLEQUAH

NOW HIRING

Cherokee Na tion Heal th Ser vices is the largest tr ibal ly op erated he alt hs ys te m in thec oun tr ya nd of fe rs av ar iet yo f ser vi ces to Cherokee Na tion ci tizens , as well as of other fe de ra lly re cogn ized tribe s. Th ro ugh thehea lth syste m, the tribe op e ra tes ni n ehealt hc en tersa nd

W. W. Has tin gs Hosp ita lw ith in the tribe ’s 14 -cou nt yres er va tion

Healthy Cherokee peop le, families and communities for this and futureg enera tions.

For inf orm at ion

Cal l: 918-234 -2483

Ema il: he alt h-rec rui te r@c he ro ke e.org

P.O. Bo x948

Ta hle quah, OK 74 465

www.c he ro ke e.o rg

Choosing a School

Tahlequah and the surrounding area boasts of school systems designed to meet the needs of every student. No matter the level of education already achieved, or the goals of students – whether a master’s degree or a high school diploma – Tahlequah has something for everyone.

The Tahlequah Public School system has one pre-K school, three elementary schools, one middle school, one high school and one alternative school. Bus service and breakfast is available for each school.

Rural communities have their own schools and serve students outside Tahlequah. Each of the eight schools has its own bus service and breakfast program. There are also three private schools, one charter school, and one post-secondary college.

Post-Secondary Education

Tahlequah is home to Northeastern State University, the oldest institution of higher learning in the state of Oklahoma. It was originally the Cherokee Female Seminary and became a state school in 1909. Seminary Hall is the oldest building on campus, having been built in 1889.

The main campus is in Tahlequah. There are two other campuses in Muskogee and Broken Arrow, as well as online courses. NSU offers 59 undergraduate majors and 66 undergraduate minors. There are 25 graduate majors, the school of optometry, and some non-degree and graduate certificates.

For information, call 918-456-5511 or 800-722-9614. Go to www.nsuok.edu for a full list of degrees, and programs available.

Indian Capital Technology Center is the eighth-largest Oklahoma technology center providing innovative career and technical training and developing world-class leaders for the workplace. ICTC was established to serve secondary students, postsecondary students, adults in upgrading skills, on-the-job trainees, and business and industry.

There are five campuses in Muskogee, Tahlequah, Stilwell, Coweta, and Sallisaw. There is an Adult Health Careers campus in Muskogee. They also have online courses. Federal aid is available. For more information go to www.ictech. edu or call 918-456-2594.

Tahlequah Public Schools

Tahlequah Public Schools is the home of the Tigers. It has about 3,493 students in grades P-K, K-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 15-to-1.

Tahlequah High School enrolls students in grades 9-12. It is located at 551 Pendleton in Tahlequah. Some of the organizations, clubs, and activities available to students are chorus, drama, football, cheer, volleyball, basketball, cross country, dance, softball, Cherokee club, track, band, and many more. The principal is Natalie Cloud. Hours are from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. with late start Friday from 8:45 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information call 918-458-4150. Visit www.tahlequahschools.org for more details.

Central Academy is an alternative school for students at risk of dropping out due to a variety of challenges. A Boot School creates a strict environment for court-ordered students. Adult Basic Education is also at this campus. Students can earn a High School Equivalency diploma. The Parent Education Program is offered to teens in the school, as well as to the community, free of charge, from prenatal to 36 months. The campus is located at 351 Academy St. in Tahlequah and enrolls grades 7-12. The director of Alternative Education is Sherry Yount. Hours are from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. with late

start Friday at 8:25 a.m. For more information, call 918-458-4170.

Tahlequah Middle School is at 871 Pendleton and enrolls students in grades 6-8. A wide variety of extracurricular activities are offered. Some of those activities are choir, drama, spelling bees, basketball, and wrestling. The principal is Abby Keys. Hours are from 8a.m.3:10 p.m. For more information, call 918-458-4140.

Sequoyah Elementary is for Pre-K students only. It is at 425 S. College in Tahlequah. Misty Blunt is the Early Childhood director. School hours are from 8:10 a.m.-3:10 p.m. For more information call 918-458-4130.

Cherokee Elementary enrolls students from kindergarten through fifth grade. It is located at 800 E. Goingsnake in Tahlequah. The principal is Marissa McCoy. Hours are from 8:10 a.m.-3:10 p.m. For more information call 918-458-4110.

Greenwood Elementary enrolls grades K-5. It is at 400 E. Ross in Tahlequah. The principal is Ronda Reed. Hours are from 8:10 a.m.-3:10 p.m. For more information, call 918-458-4120.

Heritage Elementary enrolls grades K-5. It is at 333 Southridge Road. The principal is Amanda Vance. Hours are from 8:10 a.m.-3:10 p.m. For more information, call 918-458-4180.

Rural School Districts

Lowrey School, home of the Lions, enrolls grades Pre-K through eighth. It is at 21132 E 640 Road in Tahlequah. The superintendent is Paul Pinkerton. Hours are from 8:10 a.m.3:15 p.m. For more information, call 918-456-4053 or visit www.Lowrey.k12.ok.us

Grand View School is the home of the Chargers. The school enrolls grades Pre-K through eighth. It is at 15481 N. Jarvis Road in Tahlequah. The superintendent is Larry Ben. Hours are from 8 a.m.3 p.m. For more information, call 918-456-5131 or visit www.grandviewchargers.org.

Woodall School enrolls grades Pre-K through eighth. It is at 14090 W. 835 Road in Tahlequah. The principal is Kim Kocsis. Hours are from 8 a.m.3:15 p.m. For more information, call 918-456-1581 or visit www.woodall.k12.ok.us.

Briggs School enrolls grades Pre-K through eighth. It is at 17210 S. 569 Road in Tahlequah. The superintendent is Stephen Haynes. The principal is Kair Ridenhour. Hours are from 7:50 a.m.-2:50 p.m. For more information, call 918-

456-4221 or visit www.briggs. k12.ok.us.

Shady Grove School is the home of the Wildcats. It enrolls Pre-K through eighth. It is at 11042 W. Shady Grove Road in Hulbert. The superintendent/principal is Emmett Thompson. Hours are from 7:50 a.m.-3 p.m. for Pre-K through fourth grade, while fifth through eighth grade goes until 3:05 p.m. For more information, call 918-772-2511 or visit https://sites.google. com/shadygrove.k12.ok.us/ shadygrove.home.

Norwood School is the home of the Hornets. The school enrolls grades Pre-K through eighth. It is located at 7966 W. 790 Road in Hulbert. The superintendant is Cris Wyse. Call 918-478-3092 for hours. Visit www.norwood. k12.ok.us for more information.

Peggs School is the home of the Panthers. The school enrolls grades Pre-K through eighth. It is located at 10821 W. Hickory Ave., in Peggs. The superintendant is John Cox. Hours are from 7:30 a.m.-3:15 for lower grades and 7:30 a.m.3:25 for upper grades. For more information call 918-598-3412 or visit www.peggsps.us.

Tenkiller Elementary/ Middle School is the home of the Warriors. The school enrolls grades Pre-K through eighth. It is at 26106 E. 863 Road in Welling. The superintendent is Marilyn Dewoody; the principal is Chad Botts. Call 918-457-5996 for school hours. Visits www. tenkiller.k12.ok.us for more information.

Hulbert Public Schools is the home of the Riders. The school enrolls grades Pre-K through 12th. It is at 316 Rider Lane in Hulbert. The superintendent is Jolyn Choate. The high school principal is Lakisha Blandon. The elementary principal is Taf Morphis. Hours are from 8 a.m.-3:15 p.m. For more information, call 918-772-2501 or visit https://sites.google. com/hulbertriders.net/hulbert-public-schools/home.

Keys High School is the home of the Cougars. The school enrolls grades ninth through 12th. It is located at 26062 S. 520 Road in Park Hill. The superintendent is Vol Woods and the principal is Steve Goss. Hours are from 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. For more information call 918-458-1835 or visit www.keyscougars.org.

Keys Elementary/Middle School enrolls grades Pre-K through eighth. It is at 19061 E. 840 Road in Park Hill. The principal is Jon Mages. Call 918-456-4501 for hours and visit www.keyscougars.org for more information.

Charter Schools

The Cherokee Immersion Charter School enrolls Pre-K through eighth. It is in the Durbin Feeling Language Center. It was founded by the Cherokee Nation in 2001 for the purpose of preserving the heavily endangered Cherokee language. Students must be members of a federally recognized tribe, and an application process is used, as class size is limited. Call 918-207-4900 for more information.

Private Schools

Sequoyah High School enrolls grades seventh through 12th. It is at 17091 S. Muskogee Ave. in Tahlequah. The superintendent is Rita Bunch. The principal is Justin Brown. It began as an Indian Boarding School in 1891. Today, the school is nestled onto a 90-acre campus. Sequoyah Schools enrolls more than 300 students representing 42 tribes and 14 different states. Students are eligible to attend if they are members of a federally recognized Indian tribe or one-fourth blood descendants of such members. Traditional studies are taught along with opportunities to connect with Indigenous culture. Call 918-453-5400 or visit www. sequoyahschools.org.

Shiloh Christian School began in 1991 and is Tahlequah’s only private Christian school. It enrolls grades kindergarten through eighth. It is at 1282 Amity Lane in Tahlequah. Their mission is “Partnering with the family to cultivate academic excellence, integrate godly principles for living, and guide every child toward maturity in Christ.” Their hours are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 918-458-5041 or visit www. shilohcs.org.

Cookson Hills Christian School is a year-round, K-12 grade, ACSI-accredited school that provides educational opportunities designed to prepare students who are at-risk for a productive life. Teachers work alongside houseparents, social workers, and other team members to ensure they are providing the holistic opportunity each child needs for a well-rounded future. The school is at 60416 OK-10 in Kansas, Oklahoma. The director of Educational Services is Melissa Jackson. For more information, call 918948-6300.

COMPILED BY LAYCE GARDNER

Gather Here. Go Far.

@Oklahoma'sImmersiveLearning Institution

Affo rd able tu ition; 30 0+ sc holarship de signations

Wo rkfo rc ed evelopmen tt ra ining

80+ ba chelor'sa nd mas te r'sd egree s

Co nt inuing educ ation co urses &c er tific ates

Militar yt uition as sis ta nc eava ilable

Superintendent

SCHOOL SITES

WHERE ALLSTUDENTS ARE LEADERS

Elementary Certified Teacher Staff

Evan Barnes

Jamie Brewer

Sonia Brownell

Holly Brozovich

Alisha Buford

Ashley Carr

Rebecca Carter

Jennifer Moore

Kim Crawford

Sherry Crittenden

Amy Dark

Teresa Dillon

Marvin Goudeau

Winona Green

Joshua Haggard

Amy Hamilton

Jordan Houston

Stefani Hunt

Amber Kinney Cayce Kirk

Melanie Klugh

Nichole Laymon

Teresa Robbins

Whitney Shelly

Autumn Smith

Denise Snyder

Bruce Thompson Lacey Williams

Karen Wolfe

Elementary/Middle School Office Staff

Jonathan Mages /Principal

Amy Tull /Assistant Principal

Rhonda Rice /Counselor

Brenda Wittman /Secretary

Lisa Carter /Secretary

Classified Staff

Schandra Bates

Shannon Belcher

Bethany Chambers

Belinda Champlain

Donna Davis

Angela Dayton

Chelsea Foster

Chris Fowler

Jimmie Hammer

Deana Harper

Lori Hoover

Jim Hutson

Lora Jordan

Keys School

Shirley McGowan

Kathy Morgan

TaLesha Newman

Shelly Pippin

Vickie Petree

Susan Sampsel

Johnny Sloate

Bea Terrell

Malesha Thomas

Jason Watson

Nikola Walker Cherry West

26062 Hwy82, Park Hill, OK 74451

High School Certified Teacher Staff

Kash Allen

Greg Barnes

Holly Bronsert

Justin Brown

Lisa Burton

Michael Clayborn

Rose Coon

Meredith Coons

Mahala Forrest

Heidi Hamby

Mojah Hamner

Darrell Hood

Samantha Hood

Adam Hass

Rick Kirkhart

Robert Lewandowski

Kruz Lynch

Jessica Matthews

Ann Marie Ryals

Audra Stilwell

Paul Whitley

Fred Williams

Nick Zodrow

High School Office Staff

Steven Goss /Principal

Robbie Smith /Counselor

Shauna Jones /Secretary

District Staff

VolWoods /Supt.

Debbie Ross /Admin. Clerk

Denise Rucker /Admin. Clerk

Nancy Bryan /CNDirector

Robert Harbuck /M&T Director

Julie Schwegler/SpEd Director

Deborah Teague /Nurse

Denise Dossey /Librarian

Chase Cambiano/ Technology Director

Board Members

President –Dexter Scott

Vice-President –Rick Patrick

Asst. Clerk –Radean Forman

Member –Bobby Musgrove Jr Clerk –Beth Brandt

Elementary 918-456-4501

High School 918-458-1835

Find a New Job

Cherokee County has many opportunities for those looking for employment and job training.

One of Cherokee County’s largest employers, the Cherokee Nation, has several avenues of employment, including on areas such as social services, education, law enforcement, government, entertainment, health, gaming, and more. To apply and find out more information on job listing switch the tribe, go to www.cherokeenationjobs.org or go to the Cherokee Nation Human Resources office at the W.W. Keeler Complex Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Those wanting to information on job placement assistance, employment resources, and training programs can go to www.cherokee.org/all-services/career-services.

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Human Resources Office is a way for applicants and job seekers to get their information out there. An employment application can be found at www.ukb-nsn. gov/employment. For more information, call 918-871-2800.

The city of Tahlequah offers a list of employment opportunities through a career portal at https://ok-tahlequah.civicplushrms. com/careers. These jobs can be anything from patrol officer to solid waste collector. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., job seekers can apply for individual offices and departments at the Cherokee County Courthouse.

Several options are available in the education field. Cherokee County is home to three independent school districts that educate children in Head Start all the way to the 12th grade. There are also eight rural schools that go from kindergarten to eighth grade.

Those wanting to take part in the world of trade school can attend the Indian Capital

Technology Center at www.ictech.edu/. Anyone who does not want to learn a trade, but still wants to continue into higher ed, will find the Northeastern State University campus has multiple positions available at www.nsuok. edu. Work-study programs, as well as Career Services, can allow NSU students to not only receive their education, but garner on-campus employment. Information about Career Services can be found at https://offices.nsuok. edu/careerservices/default.aspx.

Another avenue for job hunters is the healthcare profession. The area is home to the nation’s largest tribal outpatient facility and two major health care systems. For the tribal outpatient facility with Cherokee Nation, go to www.cherokee.org/employment. For Northeastern Health System, check out www. alwaysnhs.org/careers. Sign up for job alerts with Northeastern Oklahoma Community Health Centers Inc. by going to www.neohealth.org/careers.

One of the hardest parts about seeking a job can be building a resumé. Organizations like the Oklahoma Works American Job Center can help with this, as well as provide job fairs and hiring events. The Oklahoma Works American Job Center can be found at 1295 Skills Center Circle. The building is open from Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 918-456-8846.

Cherokee County is home to many nurseries and river and lake accommodations. This allows options for seasonal work, especially during the warmer months. Along the Illinois River, Fort Gibson, and Lake Tenkiller shores, many people find work, as tourism is a large business venture in the area.

For career training or employment assistance, Oklahoma residents can also reach out to OK Job Match at okjobmatch.com.

Federal job openings can be found at www. usajobs.gov by the state of Oklahoma, while job listings can be found at https://okgov.wd1. myworkdayjobs.com/okgovjobs.

The Oklahoma Production Center, a private, nonprofit organization, has services available for residential, education, and vocation for those with developmental disabilities. For more information, visit www.opcdd.com or call 918-456-1929.

There are many other employment options in Tahlequah, such as Lake Region Electric Cooperative, Walmart, Walgreens, Reasor’s Food, Northeast Oklahoma Public Facilities Authority, and several restaurants, hotels, and locally owned businesses. Employment advertisements can be found in physical copies of the Tahlequah Daily Press and at www.tahlequahdailypress.com.

COMPILED BY SKYLER HAMMONS

CAREER SERVICES

Career Services provides amultitude of programs to assist individuals with their employment and training needs.

CONTACT US TODAY: 918-453-5555

VISIT ONE OF OUR FIELD OFFICES

•Tahlequah

•Stilwell

•Sallisaw

•Wagoner

•Muskogee

•Catoosa

•Tulsa

•Jay

•Pryor

•Vinita

WILDFIRE PRE VENTION PROGRAM

Services include:

•Community Wildfire Protection Plans

•Provides homeowners with education on how to protect homes in the event of wildfires

•Arranges Smokey Bear visits to schools

•Creates and administers adult fire education programs

•Assists with training courses for firefighters and cooperating agencies

•Provides fire safety awareness to citizens and neighbors through public outreach

CONTAC TUSTODAY:918-456-9959

Just For Seniors

Tahlequah and its surrounding areas have many resources available for senior citizens. The amenities offer a wide variety in improving one’s health, offering volunteer opportunities, or just allowing people to have fun.

Day Centers

The Hulbert Senior Citizen Center, at 401 East Main St., allows older adults opportunities to take part in gatherings and social events throughout the year. Patrons are served lunch Monday through Friday at 11:30 a.m. by the Eastern Oklahoma Development District nutrition program. Call 918-772-2077 for more information.

The Tahlequah Senior Citizens Center, at 230 E. First St., is open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m.-3 p.m. The gathering place for retirees had to make some changes after the COVID-19 pandemic began. The dining hall was initially closed with a drive-thru still open to the public. Now the operations have switched causing the drive-thru to be closed and the dining hall to be open to patrons.

Those who want to participate in activities at the center will find they can get their bodies moving in a daily exercise class, or they can play games, such as dominoes, cards, or bingo.

For more information on dining and activities at the center, call 918-456-0792.

Improvement Opportunities

Those wanting to stay physically and mentally fit can do so through several options that are in Cherokee County.

There are physical fitness activities at the Northeastern State University Wellness Center, including yoga and Zumba. Swimming is also available with the pool being open from Monday to Friday from

7 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m.5 p.m. The NSU Wellness Center is open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

The Cherokee Nation Male Seminary Recreation Center offers another space for physical fitness classes at 1501 Graham Ave. Information on the classes can be found at www.cherokeepublichealth.org or by calling 918-453-5496.

A walk can be a good way to not only get some exercise but to clear one’s head. The multiple walking trails throughout Hulbert and Tahlequah offer seniors a chance to get out and get some fresh air.

Other mental health improvements can be made at the local libraries through their wide range of workshops, clubs, and activities and for all ages. The Tahlequah Public Library is at 120 S. College Ave., and the Hulbert Community Library is at 210 S. Broadway.

NSU Continuing Education classes can allow enrollees to pursue more education. To enroll, go to ww.nsuok.edu/ce. The Indian Capital Technology Center also offers classes, with some being to help seniors learn how to operate computers and smartphones. Enrollment can be done at www. ictctech.com.

Another important program

in Cherokee County is the Foster Grandparent Program. The Senior Corp and KiBois run the program, which helps kids who have special needs. Those who are older than 55, can help area organizations, such as Head Start centers and faith-based groups.

Workers for the program will garner a tax-free stipend, a yearly physical, 15-40 hours of work, a meal each day they work, travel reimbursements, monthly training, and about 40 hours of orientation. Those partaking in the program help the kids by doing such activities, as being a tutor, guiding them, and teaching them how to read.

The stipend the participants receive will not impact Social Security eligibility or other benefit programs. Workers will receive $4 an hour. For more information, call 918-441-0089.

Tribal Services

The UKB Human Services Department has several services that can be offered to elders. For more information, call 918-8712800.

The United Keetowah Band also offers services through the Jim Proctor Elder Nutrition Center UKB elders, who are over the age of 55, eat for free with their spouses. People, and their spouses, who are 55 or older with a CDIB card must

contribute to the meal’s cost.

Cherokee Nation Home Health Services Inc. is a tribally incorporated nonprofit home health care agency. The nonprofit provides patrons with Medicaidand Medicare-certified state-licensed home health. For more information, call 800-307-4768.

Cherokee Elder Care, at 1387 W. Fourth St., is a long-term care option for elders who meet the qualifications. Those who want to partake in the program do not have to be Native American to qualify for the service. For more information on the services provided, call 918-453-5554.

Cherokee Nation can also help in various ways by the participants reaching out to Hospice at 918-458-5080, Home Health Outreach at 918456-5051, Behavioral Health at 918-207-4977, and Cancer Programs at cancer@ cherokee.org.

There are several resources offered through the Cherokee Nation Human Services, such as a caregiver program, food distribution, burial assistance, the Veterans Center, Elders in Need, and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Call 918-453-5422 for more info.

There are also ways to help elders who others have concerns for when it comes to senior welfare. Eastern Oklahoma Develop-

ment District Area Agency on Aging should be contact in the event of senior welfare concerns at 918-682-7891 or go to www.eoddok.org. Other resources include OKDHS Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 800-522-3511; Oklahoma Adult Protective Services at www. okdhs.org at 405-521-3660; or the Oklahoma Department of Health at 800-252-8419 or www.ok.gov.

Retirement Communities

There are several opportunities in Tahlequah when it comes to searching for a retirement community. The community can offer senior citizens outdoor and /or social activities, as well as assisted or independent living.

Davis Retirement Apartments, at 310 North St., is in a gated community and has one- to two-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom duplexes with garages for residents who want to live independently. Free cable and water, as well as covered parking is available for resident usage. For more information, call 918-4564000.

Heritage Grove at Tahlequah, 1380 N. Heritage Lane, has custom assisted-living options for patrons. The 39 apartments on-site each have a 24-hour emergency response system, as well as private baths. Heritage Grove’s commons area holds various social events, while the site has multiple resources available. Some of the services offered includes an arts and crafts studio, salon, courtyard, library, and barbershop. Call 918-456-7117 for more information.

The Christian Living Center, Go Ye Village, 1201 W. Fourth St., has both long-term care and assisted living facilities on site. There are also apartments and patio home open to patrons. Go Ye Village not only has weekly activities, but one’s that take place daily. The site offers transportation, gardens, a full service salon, woodworking shop, library, exercise rooms, a chapel, and more. For more information, call 918-456-4542 or go to www. goyevillage.org.

Wisdom Keepers Senior Retirement Community, 1286

W. Fourth St., offers one to two bedroom apartments, but these are dependent on the applicant’s income. The units have individual climate controls, a bedroom, living room, bath, and kitchen. The community offers various ammenities like a puzzle room, salon, and arts and crafts room. Wisdom Keepers is also a Cherokee Nation Nutrition site that serves lunch Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. Call 918-453-9900 for more information.

The Cherokee County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 1504 N. Cedar Ave., also has long

and short-term care options for residents with private and semi-private rooms, as well. The location not only has sitting and walking areas, but licensed therapists who personalize speech, occupational, and physical therapy programs. Such programs are meant to increase resident mobility, especially if the mobility was hindered by an illness or injury. For more information, go to www.cherokeecountynr.com or call 918-456-3456. COMPILED BY

Just for Kids

Tahlequah is home to many kid-friendly and family fun events. From exploring state parks to skating on a Friday night, there is no limit to the entertainment and educational activities in town.

Situated in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, Tahlequah has many hiking trails and nature centers for the outdoor enthusiasts. Sequoyah State Park in Hulbert has the Three Forks Nature Center, where children can interact with animals that have been wounded and are not able to be returned to the wild. There are owls, foxes, beavers, otters, and bald eagles. The park juts into Fort Gibson Lake and offers fishing, boating, and skiing. Cultural programs for children are abundant. From dance to theater to art, Tahlequah boasts an extensive cultural experience for youngsters.

After-School Activities

Boys & Girls Club: It is the mission of Boys & Girls Club of Tahlequah to enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. B&GC is based at 400 W. Morgan St. in Tahlequah. They offer tutors to help students with homework; CareerLaunch, designed for club members age 13-18 to prepare to join the work force; and Triple Play, a comprehensive health and wellness program that strives to improve the overall health of members by increasing their daily physical activity, teaching them good nutrition, and helping them develop healthy relationships. For more information, call 918-456-7888.

Boy Scouts of America: Boy Scouts of America has after-school and evening meetings. For Cub Scouts, kindergarten-fifth grade, call Cody Peterson, 918453-3765; Scouts BSA troops for boys and girls, ages 11-18, Doug Whisenhunt, 918906-9964; and Venturing, a co-ed program for ages 14-20, Tommy Gay, 918-521-4263.

Girl Scouts of America: Girl Scouts of America has after-school and evening programs, summer day camps, kindergarten through high school. Melissa Harris is Cherokee Service Unit manager; call 918-346-3210 or email harrism@tahlequahschools.org.

Cheerleading: Cheer It Up is at 2255 W. Choctaw St. in Tahlequah. It teaches the

fundamentals of cheerleading – tumbling, motions, jumps, stunting, and dance – in a fun, low-pressure, short-term, performance-based environment. Hours are Monday-Friday, 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Call 918-4568797 or visit www.cheer-it-up.com.

Cherokee County 4-H: This is a volunteer-led, educational program that supplements the teaching of home, church, and school. It is an informal educational program for all boys and girls 8 to 18 years of age, whether they live in town, the country, or on a farm. Call Heather Winn at 918-456-6163.

Tahlequah Recreational Soccer Club: For more information, call 918-453-3838 or visit tahlequahsoccerclub.com.

Tahlequah Stingrays Swim Team: This amateur sports team is headed up by the Boys & Girls Club. They practice throughout the year and compete in swim matches. For more information, call Kevin Burns at 918-704-4960.

Tahlequah Sports League: The organization operates at Phoenix Park. The sports complex features baseball, swimming, fast-pitch softball, basketball, flag football, and soccer. For more information, call 918-822-1098.

Cultural Classes

Arts Council of Tahlequah: ACT promotes, advocates for and encourages visual, literary and performing arts and artists. They are located at 215 S. Muskogee in Tahlequah. For more information, call 918-457-7345 or email artscounciltahlequah@gmail.com.

Cherokee Arts Center: Located in the Spider Gallery, it offers artists a place to meet, share their knowledge and learn new techniques. They have the opportunity to explore a number of creative avenues at the center while creating a viable source of income for themselves and spreading awareness about Cherokee

culture. The Cherokee Arts Center is a gathering place for artists to mentor and network with one another to become artist entrepreneurs. They offer art classes and workshops for metalsmithing, basket weaving, pottery, loom weaving, and more. For more information, call 918-4535728 or email, artscenter@cherokee.org.

Cherokee National Cultural Camps: There are day and residential camps. Camp Cherokee is an enriching academic experience for Cherokee Nation students. The camp will include classes in the areas of STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – as well as cultural activities. Students must have a Cherokee Nation Citizenship Card. For more information, call 918-453-5224 or visit camp. cherokee.org.

Dena’s Art Den: At 108 S. Muskogee in Tahlequah, Dena’s Den offers paint parties and paint lessons for kids. For more information, call Dena Coleman at 918-207-5488.

On Stage Dance Studio: This studio offers kids as young as 18 months the opportunity to learn ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and musical theater. They are at 5233 S. Muskogee. Kristene Watson is the owner, director, instructor, and competition coach. For more information, call 918-855-9406 or email onstagedancestudio@yahoo.com.

Rhythm Innovations Dance Company: Located at 1106 S. Muskogee in Tahlequah, this is a recreational and competitive dance studio offering classes and private lessons in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, pointe, hip hop, pom, mommy and me, and clogging for all ages. For more information, call 918-871-2224.

Tahlequah Academy of Performing Arts: This dance studio promotes artistry, poise, discipline & confidence. The owner is Lena Glakova-Huffman. For more information, call 918-777-4272.

Mountain Movers Dance Studio: This outlet offers classes in ballet, jazz, pom, contemporary, ballet conditioning, hip hop and more. Their top focus is technique while still creating a safe and encouraging atmosphere for students. Mrs. Natalie is the owner/instructor. The studio is at 2505 S. Muskogee in Tahlequah. For more information call 918-457-6919.

Year-Round Fun

Tahlequah History Trail: This area grants guests a paved walking trail with historic markers dotted throughout. Pedal, walk or run along this local trail, and learn more about the city’s history. Start at the community garden on Smith Street, and continue two miles past well-known landmarks like NSU Seminary Hall and the Franklin Castle House, as well as a wooded park and Town Branch Creek.

Literacy programs: Options are offered at the Tahlequah Public Library, including Baby Bookworms, Toddler Tales, Reading Rockstars, In BeTweeners, and Teen Zone. TPL is at 120 S. College Ave., 918-456-2581. The Hulbert Community Library also hosts literary events at 210 N. Broadway in Hulbert, 918-772-3383.

Tahlequah Community Playhouse:

TCP offers opportunities for kids to get on stage or work behind the scenes. TCP has partnered with The Penguin Project to give children with special needs opportunities in the theater. Visit tcpok.com for more information.

Ramos Championship Martial Arts: At 106 Monroe St. in Tahlequah, they offer classes for kids as young as three. For information, call 918-457-0246.

Kuk Sool Won of Tahlequah: Based at 2051 Mahaney Ave., Kuk Sool Won is a systematic study of all of the traditional fighting arts. For more information, call 918-977-3311.

The Skatehouse: This business offers public skating – inline and traditional skates – birthday parties, roller hockey, skate lessons, and video games. Contact Dusty Fore at 918-456-1100 or visit www. skatetahlequah.com.

Thunder Bowl: The alley is at 833 W. Choctaw St. There is a snack bar, bowling lanes, air hockey, pool tables, and birthday parties. For more information, call 918-456-4663.

Summer Fun

Tahlequatics: At 1046 W. Allen Road in Tahlequah, there is a large swimming pool, waterslide, diving board, and concessions.

They are open May-September. The admission fee is five dollars per guest, swimmers and non-swimmers. Children 3 and under are free.

4-H summer workshops: These are volunteer-led, educational program that supplements the teaching of home, church, and school. It is an informal educational program for all boys and girls 8 to 18 years of age whether they live in town, the country, or on a farm. For more information, call 918-456-6163.

Movies in the Park: This event is sponsored by Tahlequah Main Street Association. The event is held in Norris Park, downtown, on select Saturdays. For more information, call 918-931-1699 or visit tahlequahmainstreet.com.

Northeastern State University: NSU offers several summer academy workshops. For information call 918-444-4610 or visit https://academics.nsuok.edu/continuingeducation/youthprograms.

Sequoyah State Park: There are horse stables, golf, hiking, a nature center, biking trails, a playground, and boating. It is located on Lake Fort Gibson. For more information, call 918-772-2545.

COMPILED BY LAYCE GARDNER

That’s Entertainment

Tahlequah is a small town with a big city entertainment scene. The town has many attractions for families and singles featuring local talent. From the Senior Citizen Center’s dances, to The River City Players, to the Red Fern Festival, to the Cherokee National Holiday, there is something for everyone to enjoy all yearround.

Premier Annual Events

Green Country Jazz Festival: This event is sponsored by NSU and will be held March 3-4. This marks the 57th year of the festival, which will feature renowned three-time Grammy award-winning drummer Ullysses Owens Jr. For more information, call 918-444-2700.

Cherokee National Holiday

The Cherokee National Holiday is an annual event held Labor Day weekend. The holiday hosts many different cultural and artistic events, such as a two-night intertribal powwow, stickball, Cherokee marbles, horseshoes, cornstalk shoot tournaments, softball tournaments, rodeos, car and art shows, gospel singing, the annual Miss Cherokee pageant, the Cherokee National Holiday parade, and the annual State of the Nation address by the principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. Call 918-453-5536.

Hunter’s Home

Visitors can experience living history interpreters demonstrating 19th-century trades, chores, cooking, gardening, and crafts. A variety of seasonal events are held throughout the year. Call 918-456-2751.

Keetoowah Cherokee Celebration

The event is held every year during the first weekend in October. It features a stomp dance, golf tournament, the Miss Keetoowah Pageant, volleyball, and arts and craft vendors. Call 918-871-2100.

Summer Fun

Tahlequah has several surrounding lakes and rivers for summertime water fun. From skiing, to fishing, to boating, to rafting, Tahlequah is a premier destination for all water lovers. For more information, call the Tenkiller Corps of Engineers at 918-487-5252 or Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission at 918-456-3251.

Hiking

The Welling Ridge Trails are located at 19679 S. Welling Road in Welling. It is a 200-acre park featuring four miles of trails for hiking or mountain biking. Sequoyah State Park offers many trails, ranging in length from two to five miles. It is located in Hulbert at 17131 Park 10. For Welling Ridge, visit www.tahlequahtrails.org. For Sequoyah State Park, call 918-772-2545.

Illinois River Float Trips

The Illinois River has a moderate current and many canoe, kayak, and raft outfitters along its banks. The river flows parallel to scenic State Highway 10 northeast of town. More information can be found at www.Tahlequahfloattrips.com.

River City Players

For over 30 years, the River City Players have been entertaining the denizens and guests of Tahlequah. It is a Branson-style music variety show that capitalizes on the talent of NSU students and faculty. Call 918-444-4500.

Western Hills and Three Forks Nature Center

Sequoyah State Park is a haven for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with over 19,000 surface acres of water

and 225 miles of shoreline on Fort Gibson Lake. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, guided horseback trail rides, wildlife watching, golf, fishing, camping, and more. Three Forks Nature Center offers interpretive displays on native flora and fauna, and guests young and old can experience native wildlife through the ambassador animal program. Call 918-772-2297.

On the Links

Whether a person is a professional or is just starting out, there are several golf courses in Tahlequah to choose from. Cherokee Springs Golf Course is an 18-hole, par-72 course measuring 6814 yards in length. It’s located at 700 E. Ballentine Road. Call 456-5100. Cherokee Trails Golf Course is nine-hole golf course set next to Sequoyah High School. Lessons are offered at 22706 S. 504 Road. Call 918-458-4294. Riverlinks, Tahlequah City Golf Coursem is located at 2200 Golf Course Road. It is a nine-hole course and is relatively short, which is great for seniors, juniors, ladies and beginner golfers alike. Call 918-456-3761. Sequoyah State Park Golf Course is a nine-hole golf course open seven days a week, except Christmas. The course also offers FlingGolf as an option. It is near Hulbert off State Highway 51. Call 918-772-2297.

Year-Round Activities

Live Music and Theater Venues

Tahlequah boasts many live music and theater events throughout the year. Venues range from Northeastern State Univeristy’s Playhouse to the local Senior Citizens Center.

The Branch

The Branch is a restaurant/ bar downtown at 503 N. Muskogee Ave. They serve American cuisine and have a full bar that serves craft cocktails and a wide variety of beers. Many local musicians play here in the evenings and weekends. Call 918-456-1500.

Cherokee National Prison Museum

The Cherokee National Prison Museum is at 124 E. Choctaw St. It is home to an interpretive site exploring the history of Cherokee crime and punishment. Call 918207-3640.

Cherokee Arts Center & Gallery

The Cherokee Arts Center is at 212 S. Water St. They offer classes and workshops in pottery, jewelry making, weaving, and art. They have a gift shop and gallery where artists can display and sell their work. Call 918-453-5728.

Dewain’s Place

Dewain’s Place is a popular bar at 303 S. Water Ave. They offer a variety of beers and cocktails. Bands play throughout the week Call 918-4589736.

Kroner and Baer Brewpub

Kroner and Baer is a brewpub at 200 N. Muskogee Ave. in downtown Tahlequah. They offer a variety of craft beer, wine, cocktails and ciders. They have a restaurant

on the premises, Hangry Baer. Local bands and musicians play throughout the week. Call 918-401-9522.

Ned’s

Ned’s is a local watering hole at 316 N. Muskogee Ave. They offer affordable drinks, pool and ping pong tables. Bands, musicians, poetry slams and drag shows are often featured during the year. Call 918-456-3341.

NSU Jazz Lab

The Jazz Lab is at 315 N. Muskogee Ave. It is open to both NSU and the community. Many musical groups play here featuring NSU students, faculty, and the community. Call 918-444-4603.

NSU Playhouse

Northeastern State University Drama is at The Playhouse, 300 N. Muskogee Ave. The Playhouse is home to the university’s drama students, who perform four plays a year and houses the River City Players, who perform during the summer months. Call 918-444-4500.

Senior Citizens Center

The Tahlequah Senior Citizens Center is located at 230 E. First St. There are many daily activities, including dances, exercise classes,

bingo, and arts and crafts. Call 918-456-0792.

Sequoyah Institute

The Sequoyah Institute hosts the Performing Arts Series, which brings national and international talent to the stage at the NSU Playhouse. Call 918-444-4500.

CommunityTahlequahPlayhouse

TCP has been bringing quality live theater to Tahlequah for over 50 years. They have a full season of shows slated each year. Call 539-234-9444.

COMPILED BY LAYCE

GARDNER

Tahlequah, Oklahoma is a historic town known for its beautiful natural setting and rich Cherokee heritage. It is the capital of the Cherokee Nation and home to the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians. With a population of around 17,000, Tahlequah is a rapidly growing city and houses Northeastern State University, the oldest higher-learning institution in the state. The town combines traditional Cherokee customs with modern amenities, offering a unique and enriching experience for visitors and residents alike. Tahlequah is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Illinois River Valley, Lake Tenkiller, and Lake Fort Gibson, earning its reputation as the heart of “Green Country”. From exploring the local museums, shops, and restaurants to participating in festivals and enjoying outdoor activities in parks and golf courses, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and peaceful city.

Oklahoma’s Green Country

Tahlequah, Oklahoma, is a beloved destination for tourists, renowned for its charming historic downtown shopping district, well manicured streets, and vibrant annual events such as the Red Fern Festival and Cherokee Nation Holiday. It has earned the well-deserved title of the “capital of green country,” boasting abundant verdant hillsides, pristine natural springs, meandering rivers, and picturesque creeks that offer unparalleled opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, and a myriad of other outdoor activities. Tahlequah truly shines as a hidden gem within the state of Oklahoma, and its proximity to numerous attractions further enhances its appeal, making it an idyllic place to call home.

Dynamic Downtown

Tahlequah’s downtown is a gathering place for residents and visitors to enjoy shopping and events. Tahlequah was incorporated by the Cherokee National Council in 1839, over 50 years before Oklahoma gained statehood. New lamp posts with lighting will be installed along the avenue this year, with built-in sound systems to feature music on special events.

A 15-foot tall replica of Eagle Man, a statue at the top of North Muskogee Avenue, stands on a turtle base near the end of the historic Trail of Tears. The statue is meant to

be a reminder of the power of forgiveness. It traveled across American and was formally unveiled and rededicated at Northeastern State University on June 20, 2016. The “Monument to Forgiveness” was created by Francis Jansen, a Dutch-born sculptor.

Tahlequah Main Street Association

Promoting Tahlequah as a great place to live, work and play is the top priority of TMSA. This group sponsors the Volkswagen Festival, which brings out car enthusiasts. The OksWagen show lines the street with Volkswa-

gens that are old, new, restored and those needing restoration. Vendors provide shopping as the people walk around the cars on display. TMSA also promotes Downtown Tahlequah Cleanup Days, Gather Downtown, Ladies Night Out and the Cookie Stroll on Main. The Red Fern Festival is scheduled for April 27-28, 2024. Jamie Hale is TMSA director, the office is located at 118 East Shawnee and can be reached at 918-931-1699.

Events

Red Fern Festival, OksWagen, Veterans Day Parade and Christmas Parade are a few of

the events Tahlequah residents and visitors alike enjoy along the Avenue.

NSU Event Center

The NSU Event Center houses RiverHawks basketball and the athletics administration staff. The venue has a capacity of 3,100 people. NSU Event Center offers over 40,000 square feet that can accommodate almost any need. The center can host dinners, luncheons, meetings, lectures and weddings. It features a 14,000-square-foot multipurpose arena and large meeting space. More information can be found at offices.nsuok.edu/

conferences/Tahlequah/Meet/

Farmers’TahlequahMarket

The local farmers’ market starts up in April and goes through October, offering produce, baked goods and crafts every week from 8 a.m. until noon. The market is celebrating its 18th season in 2024, and has a large group of volunteers and vendors. A musician plays every Saturday to entertain shoppers. The market is held under the pavilion on Morgan Street across from Norris Park. More information can be found at www.tahlequahfarmersmarket.org.

Shopping on Main Street

Some of the oldest shops in town reside on North Muskogee Avenue. David Hicks, owner of Herman’s Boot Shop, took over the running of the shop from his father, who opened the shoe repair shop in 1981. David Rogers talked the original owner of Paceline Cyclery into selling him the business in 1992 when Rogers was 23 years old. He kept it at its original location for about a year until he purchased the existing building to be close to NSU. Bike repair, sales and parts are available at this historic business. Morgan’s Bakery has been in business since 1948. For over 70 years Morgan’s has been making birthday cakes, pastries, cookies, doughnuts, cinnamon

rolls, and holiday themed treats, and many from the original recipes. An independent book store, Too Fond of Books, not only sells sells books but hosts small fairs to allow local crafters to sell their wares. The company has recently opened a used book store, Still Fond & More. Oasis Health Food Store offers a wide array of supplements, as well as a selection of foods and local produce. Felts Family Shoe Store has been in business for about 85 years, fitting local families with shoes and accessories. Other shopping options include boutiques, consignment and thrift stores, jewelers, medical marijuana dispensaries, and hair salons.

Restaurants and Bars

Some of the most popular gathering places are along this main drag through Tahlequah. Kroner & Baer, The Branch, Sam & Ella’s Chicken Palace, Vidalia’s Café, Ned’s, Emery’s Grill, and Boomarang Diner offer a wide selection of foods and drinks.

NSU Entertainment

The NSU Jazz Lab provides a classroom and performance facility for the jazz program and affords the community with a space for both NSU and residents. Wedding receptions, private parties, conferences, recordings, and performances can all be hosted in this facility.

NSU Playhouse

The NSU Drama program performs plays in this beautiful theater as well as the River City Players, a musical review production showcasing popular music.

Art

The Spider Gallery carries artwork made by Cherokee Artists, and many are well known and have won numerous awards. Tahlequah Creates has art classes and provides emerging artists a place to display and sell their art and has been working with local creative folks since

2019. The Art Gallery at NSU is a gallery displaying the works of NSU students.

Museums on Main Street

Cherokee National Museum, Cherokee National Prison Museum, Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum are located along the avenue. Storyboards inform visitors about broken treaties and injustice and the history of outlaws and lawmen.

COMPILED BY LEE

GUTHRIE

Tahlequah Area Chamber of Commerce

The Tahlequah Area Chamber of Commerce is front and center, promoting Tahlequah as a “go-to” destination.

Working through the Tahlequah Regional Development Authority, established to bring economic growth to Tahlequah, companies have the opportunity to participate in incentive programs to move an existing business to Tahlequah or start up a new one.

A recent victory for TRDA was bringing an IT company to town, Optomi LLC, doing business as Provalus, that eventually will employ close to 300 people. Between the Cherokee Nation, the city of Tahlequah and the TRDA board, incentives including rent and renovations of buildings were accepted by Provalus and the company began employing people in 2023.

Another effort is the Heartland Advanced Medical Manufacturing Region Cluster, a collaborative effort between Northeast Oklahoma and Northwest Arkansas to bring medical manufacturing businesses to the region. The aim of HAMMRC is to provide employment opportunities to residents, as well as partnering with local hospitals, to increase medical product manufacturing.

Cherokee Nation Health is also working

with HAMMRC, and will be furnishing names of suppliers, products, number of beds, patients visits, and other information needed to push recruitment. The goal is to connect with people who are innovating in the medical manufacturing field.

Monthly Mingles bring business and community members together for coffee and breakfast to network. The quarterly After Hours event does the same. Each event is hosted by a different business, allowing the host to introduce their services to the group.

A regular gathering called the Legislative Update is held monthly during the Legislative session – usually from January until May or June. Elected officials speak on the efforts of the Legislature and address issues facing the area.

Leadership Tahlequah classes guide business members to be leaders in the community by giving them tools for civic participation. The Chamber board of directors act as advisors and help them develop programs such as the 26th class did with Habitat for Humanity – raising funds to help buy construction equipment.

Tahlequah Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs is a program designed for young professionals and entrepreneurs to learn and connect with like-minded

individuals, using interactive events and learning mechanisms.

The State of the Community, held in February, and the State of Education, held in November, are regular events where leaders in these areas gather and give community members updates on what is happening in both these areas.

The benefits of joining the chamber include: entry into the online membership directory; ribbon cutting and online introduction for businesses; free weekly advertising in the weekly Chamber Chat newsletter; free feature on the TACC event calendar for upcoming events; eligibility to be featured on TACC’s social media pages; sponsorship opportunities for Chamber events; and eligibility to purchase tickets to TACC networking events.

Nathan Reed is president and CEO of TACC. More information about the Chamber and events can be found at www.tahlequahchamber.com or by calling 918-4563742. The office is at 123 E. Delaware St.

The Chamber puts on events like the Christmas Parade and Fido Fest and works in conjunction with Tahlequah Main Street Association to bring festivals and other fun happenings to the city.

COMPILED BY LEE GUTHRIE

A Walk in the Park

Tahlequah boasts many outlets for outdoor activities and one of the best are the numerous parks. From playgrounds, walking trails and even a skateboard park, Tahlequah offers many different park options fit for any one’s lifestyle.

Kaufman Park

This park is a quant, intimate setting for families or an athlete to visit. Kaufman offers picnic tables, benches and a playground for families to spend their day. For athletes, there is a nicely paved pickleball courts ready for beginners or pros. You can find the park on East First Street, by the intersection of Basin Avenue and May Avenue.

Anthis-Brennan Family Sports Complex

This park has it all for athletic events in the area, with many features. Boasting football, softball and soccer fields, folks can catch their favorite athletes there. For those looking for a place to play, there are plenty in this complex. Along with the fields, this complex also hosts a summer favorite: Tahlequatics, featuring two diving boards, a pair of water slides, and a sprinkler zone to cool off. There are also swimming lanes with lifeguards on standby. This pool complex is usually open from Memorial Day To Labor Day. The Anthis-Brennan Family Sports Complex offers an all-inclusive special needs playground, with wheelchair-safe turf, slides, large swings and a merry-go-round. All of these facilities can be found at 1046 West Allen Road.

Norris Park

Anyone driving down downtown Tahlequah would be hard-pressed to miss Norris Park. This square holds events yearround, including the Red Fern Festival and the Crawfish Festival. The park hosts farmers markets and Movies in the Park. There is also a playground for the kids.

Sequoyah City Park

Looking for the park with the best sights in town? Look no further than Sequoyah City Park. Covered by plenty of trees, Tahlequah Creek runs through this park, and it’s a great spot to have a picnic

or read by. Near Town Branch Creek there is a playground for kids. Nearby is a full setup for skaters of all skill levels, with a half-pipe, bowl, rails and plenty of ramps.

Splash Pad

One of the kids’ favorites in town is the Tahlequah Splash Pad. The splash pad features sprinklers, hoses and other equipment that is usually swarming with kids during the summer months.

Other parks to check out: Felts Park, Ross Park, Murrell Home Park, and Welling Ride Trails.

COMPILED BY JAKE SERMERSHEIM

PUBLIC HEALTH CHEROKEE NATION

Cherokee Nation Public Health promotes and protects thehealthofpeople and the communities wherethe ylive, learn, work and play.

WINGS

TheWings Programisaprogram designedto promotethe importance and awarenessofreg ular physical activit y, healtheducation,and nutrition forahealthier lifestyle.

MALE SEMINARY RECREATION CENTER

Located at 1501 Graham Ave. in Tahlequah, MSRC is ag ym free to use for Cherokee Nation citizens, employees and Seniors 70+. Fees are $20/month for non-citizens and $30/month for families.

SMOKING CESSATION CLASSES

Cherokee Nation Public Health provides classes for those ready to make apositive change in their life. For those ready to quit smoking contact Public Health to learn more.

WALKING GROUPS

Cherokee Nation Public Health host walking groups through the Cherokee Nation Reservation to promote and provide healthy activities for citizens.

WIC

WIC is anutrition program that provides nutrition and health education, healthy food, and other services free of charge to families who qualify. WIC is for children under 5years of age, pregnant or breastfeeding women, women who has recently been pregnant (less than 6month since your pregnancy ended), or have an infant.

CHEROKEEPUBLICHEALTH.ORG

Shaping Up

For some folks, when they move to an area, the first order of business after getting settled in is finding a place to work out. Luckily for those moving to Tahlequah and Cherokee County, plenty of options are available. There is a gym for any type of exercise enthusiast.

NSU Fitness Center

Northeastern State University boasts one of the best exercise setups in all of town, and it is not limited to just students; anyone can join. For an athlete who likes a variety of workout routines, The Fit is for you. NSU offers a plethora of free weights, machines and barbell weights for heavy lifters. For cardio buffs, there are plenty of treadmills, stationary bikes, ellipticals and even an indoor walking track. For those looking to play basketball, there is a pair of indoor courts and and outdoor court. Last but not least, the Fit offers an eightlane swimming pool. For more information check out offices.nsuok.edu/fitnesscenter/default.aspx or call 918-772-5007.

Markoma Gym

Those looking for a workout exuberance who don’t want the distractions of extracurriculars might find Markoma Gym is the perfect place. Markoma offers the same weight-lifting amenities as The NSU Fit does but in a space focused on weightlifting. Personal trainers, group classes and even sparring are available at Markoma. Along with that, Markoma hosts United Wrestling Entertainment and has recently started hosting events there again. For more information, check out cherokeepublichheatlh. org or call 918-4535496.

Okie Flow Fitness

While some people prefer a traditional workout route, others like to pick up the pace a little. Okie Flow Fitness offers CrossFit, Olympic weightlifting, boot camp and a kids 7-12 class. CrossFit

will help you learn how to do a variety of high-intensity muscle-building workouts. Olympic weightlifting focuses on form and moving as much as you can. Boot camp will put you through a high-intensity workout. The kids’ class offers a chance for younger exercise enthusiasts to work out.

Tahlequah Fitness

Working out isn’t always on a set schedule. If you are one of those people who goes to the gym every day but doesn’t like to have a set time, look no further than Tahlequah Fitness and its 24/7 access. Open any time of the day, Tahlequah Fitness is good for an early-morning lift or a late-night cardio session. For more information, check out tahlequahfitness.com or call 918-7725007.

Dawg Pound Fight Academy

Anyone looking to get into boxing can check out Melissa Drywater, Dawg Pound Fight Academy and Booyah Boxing. A former boxer, Drywater has been guiding young adult and youth boxing in the Cherokee County area. Starting out by training amateur boxers, Drywater’s youth camp has expanded to Dawg Pound Fight Academy. Dawg Pound Fight Academy offers a summer and after-school program for youth looking to learn how to box.

COMPILED BY JAKE SERMERSHIEM

Annual Events

Tahlequah has many events for tourists and locals alike, including parades commemorating historic days to festivals honoring books such as “Where the Red Fern Grows.” The Tahlequah Area Chamber of Commerce and The Main Street Association work in collaboration to make sure each year the events and festivals get better. Lakes and the Illinois River add to the activities available to entertain and allow for physical activities for families and tourists.

Year-Round Activities

Cherokee National History Museum

The Museum was restored and opened in 2019 and occupies the original Cherokee National Capitol building. Tribal art and heritage is represented in the exhibits in the 7,000 square foot building. Lessons are given on a regular basis in authentic art and crafts, the Cherokee Syllabary and the current modern era of the Cherokee Nation. Interactivity and hands-on exhibits showcases the Cherokee story. The Trail of Tears gallery is brought to life by authentic voices of the Cherokee People. The museum is located at 101 South Muskogee Avenue and the phone number is 877-779-6977.

John Hair Cultural Center and Museum

The John Hair Cultural Center and Keetoowah Museum holds the history and cultural objects for the UKB. Permanent and temporary exhibits within the building share the history and culture of the tribe. A gift shop offers handmade Keetoowah items. The 1949 Keetoowah Base Roll is on display for visitors to trace their family names. The JHCCM is managed by Director Ernestine Berry. For museum inquiries related to exhibits, cultural items or the gift shop, call 918-871-2866. The museum is located at 18280 West Keetoowah Circle.

Cherokee Art Center

The CAC allows artists to meet, share knowledge and learn new techniques. They can explore creative avenues while earning income and spreading awareness

about Cherokee culture. As a gathering place, artists can mentor and network with one another to learn and share how to become artist entrepreneurs. For information on classes or other opportunities, see the staff at the Spider Gallery Tuesday-Saturday, located in the Cort Mall at 215 South Muskogee Avenue, or call 918-453-5728.

Hunter’s Home

Hunter’s Home is the only remaining pre–Civil War plantation home in Oklahoma. Visitors can see how people lived back in those days by viewing the garden, field crops, animals, log cabin and the historic antebellum Cherokee plantation. History interpreters demonstrate nineteenth-century trades, chores, cooking, gardening, and crafts. Living history activities happen on a regular basis and the home is listed as a national historic landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. Located at 19479 East Murrell Home Road, Park Hill, more information is available by calling 918456-2751 or visiting www.okhistory.org/ sites/huntershome.

Cherokee Casino Tahlequah

Win at your favorite game, listen to live music or enjoy a meal at the casino. Located at 3307 Seven Clans Avenue in Tahlequah, you can call 918-207-3600 or visit www.cherokeecasino.com/tahlequah.

Apex Cinema

The cinema was recently updated and receives rave reviews on the comfort of the seats and the cleanliness of the facility. Located at 1100 North Heritage Lane, show times can be checked at www. apexcinemas.movie.

CommunityTahlequahPlayhouse

TCP has presented 100 public productions ranging from slapstick comedy to serious drama with adult themes. Melodramas, fun children’s plays and numerous productions are written by local authors. For information on the schedule of plays visit: tcpok.com.

Cort Mall

Cherokee Nation Cort Mall provides retail space, shared equipment, free wi-fi, and many other features for businesses. Kawi Cafe offers hot foods and the Spider Gallery displays works of art by Cherokee artists. The mall is located at 215 South Muskogee Avenue.

NSU Jazz Lab

The NSU Jazz Studies and Commercial Music program at the Jazz Lab has grown to include two large jazz ensembles and multiple small groups. The Jazz Lab is both a unique classroom and a performance space for professors, students and professional musicians. Visit: https://academics.nsuok.edu/music/jazzlab/default.aspx for more information.

Tahlequah Public Library and Hulbert Community Library

Books, audio books, video games, movies, crafting tools, board games, exercise equipment and much more are available at both libraries. Part of the Eastern Oklahoma Library System, both libraries offer special craft events, and bring in folks to share knowledge on a variety of topics. Tahlequah’s library is located at 120 South College Avenue and can be reached at 918-456-2581 and Hulbert’s library at 918-772-3383 and is located at 210 South Broadway Street, Hulbert.

Thompson House

Built in 1882, the Thompson family lived in it until the 1930’s. The two-story house’s architectural style is Queen Anne Carpenter Gothic with Eastlake style interior woodwork. The house is available for weddings and special occasions, tours and other opportunities via appointment. Located at 300 South College Avenue, more information can be found at thompsonhousetahlequah. com/about-us or calling 918-348-1276.

Summer Activities

Tahlequatics

Tahlequahics opens for the season in May and is part of the Anthis-Brennan Sports Complex on West Allen Road. It has two water slides, toddler area, swim lanes, diving boards, on-duty lifeguards and more. Hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Information can be found at www.cityoftahlequah.com/Facilities/ Facility/Details/Tahlequatics-1.

Splash Pad

Opened in 2014, the splash pad is located on the corner of Water Avenue and Downing Street and is user-activated. Several water features are offered to stay cool in the Oklahoma heat.

Golf

Beautiful golf courses are available for those that love the game. Cherokee Trails Golf Course is located beside Sequoyah High School at 22706 South 504 Road. More information is available at 918-458-4294. Cherokee Springs Golf Course is a 18-hole course and has a driving and putting range, pro shop, and a restaurant. Located at 700 East Ballentine Road, more information

is available by calling 918-456-5100. Riverlinks, previously known as 2200 Golf Course Road and can be reached at 918-456-3761.

Illinois River Floating Operations

State Highway 10 offers outstanding views of the river and high bluffs and several floating operations offer a fun time on the scenic waterway. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting and camping are offered. Several access points along the highway allow for folks to enjoy the water and the summer weather Oklahoma offers. Call the Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission at 918-456-3251 or visit www.ok.gov/ triton/contact.php?ac=328&id=303 for more information.

Fishing

Lake Tenkiller, Lake Fort Gibson, Baron Fork Creek and the Illinois River are some of the favored spots to indulge in a fishing passion. Bass, perch, catfish, trout and crappie are some of the fish available to fishing enthusiasts. More information is available with the Tenkiller Corps of Engineers at 918-487-5252. For information on how to get a fishing license and regulations on the sport, visit www.wildlifedepartment.com/

fishing/getting-started.

Sequoyah State Park

Located outside of Hulbert, cabins, primitive camping sites, group camping, horse stables, golfing and trails to hike are available at this pristine state park. Educational displays, programs, events, animals and naturalists are all available at the Three Forks Nature Center. The center can be reached at 918-772-2108. The Lodge at Sequoyah Park has rooms, cottages, restaurants, game areas, a splash pad, pool and more. Call 918-772-2545 for more information. Visit stateparks.com/sequoyah_state_park_in_oklahoma.html for more information.

River City Players

Enjoy rock ‘n roll or country music this summer from June through August on the last weekend of each month. On Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. is a rock performance; Fridays at 1 p.m. is also rock and at 7:30 a country show; on Saturdays at 1 p.m. rock out again, and at 4 p.m. those who love country can enjoy a fun time. Call 918-444-4500 for more information on the show performed at the NSU Playhouse.

COMPILED BY LEE GUTHRIE

Native Oklahoma

Tahlequah is home to two federally recognized Cherokee tribes: the Cherokee Nation and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians. Each has a rich culture generously shared with residents and visitors alike. The tribes have flourished despite the difficulties endured during the forced Removal – the Trail of Tears – and the horrible treatment by the U.S. government. There are more than 450,000 members of the Cherokee Nation and approximately 141,000 live within the tribe’s 14-county reservation boundaries. The UKB has about 14,300 members and approximately 13,300 live in the Tahlequah area. Both tribes have developed a large number of service organizations to support education, health care, housing, and employment. For anyone who wishes to learn more about the Cherokee culture, each tribe shares cultural activities and experiences with the public and their members throughout the year.

Cherokee Nation

The Cherokee Nation has approximately 11,000 employees, and in combination with its subsidiaries, it is one of the largest employers in northeastern Oklahoma. The economic impact of the tribe on Oklahoma’s economy is immense, and numbered more than $3 billion during 2023.

The Cherokees came to this area almost 185 years ago, decades before Oklahoma became a state. The tribe invests in long-term growth, does not outsource jobs, and keeps the CN headquarters within the state. During the pandemic, the CN brought $2 billion in COVID-19 relief funding to the state. The CN was able to ensure employees never missed a paycheck, and provided direct assistance to citizens and support to community organizations.

Cherokee Nation is the largest tribe in Oklahoma and in the U.S. Partnerships are forged with elected officials and business leaders to bring in jobs, expand services and help build better infrastructure for the residents of Oklahoma. The health care system within CN includes a new outpatient facility and currently a hospital is being built on the same site. These services lend help across the

7,000-square-mile-reservation.

Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. is in his second elected term and left his position as CN Secretary of State in 2019 to run. He replaced the outgoing Principal Chief Bill John Baker. Deputy Chief Bryan Warner serves alongside Hoskin in directing the tribe. The Tribal Council consists of 15 councilors, serving districts in the 14-county reservation, and two at-large members.

During the Cherokee National Holidays, which coincides with Labor Day weekend, thousands of people attend the celebration held in Tahlequah. The Holiday has been observed since 1953 to commemorate the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. This constitution reestablished the tribe’s sovereign government and remains in force today. Over the course of the three-day holiday, vendors sell art, crafts and jewelry. Over the months prior to the holiday, traditional games are played and culminate in tournaments on that weekend.

Sequoyah, a Cherokee man, helped preserve the language and cultural traditions by creating a syllabary of symbols that represented the syllables of the spoken language. The Cherokee were one of the earliest indigenous American languages in written form.

The recent permanent reauthorization of the Durbin Feeling Act is the latest step in preserving the Cherokee language. With the expansion of the Act, an annual budget of at least $18 million has been authorized.

The legislation designates the loss of the Cherokee language as a national emergency. Two language campuses in Tahlequah and Greasy in Adair County were

formally dedicated by the law. Plus the protection of over 1,400 acres of trust land in Delaware County to be the Kenwood Cherokee Language and Culture Preserve is authorized by this law.

Fluent speakers and young and adult students, work daily at teaching and learning the Cherokee language.

More information on the Cherokee Nation is available by calling 918-453-5000 or by visiting www.cherokee.org.

United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians

Prior to the Trail of Tears, a band of Cherokees, the Keetoowah, went to what is now Arkansas and were known as the Western Cherokees or Old Settlers. Because the Keetoowah were the more traditional Cherokees, they did not want to assimilate to the white man’s way of life.

In Oklahoma, there are two bands of Cherokee people, but there is division between the full-bloods and the mixed bloods. Full-blood is how Keetoowah refer to themselves and mixed bloods is how those in the Cherokee Nation are referred to by UKB.

Today, the tribe numbers more than 14,000 members who reside in several states throughout the U.S., though the majority are in Oklahoma. To be eligible for tribal membership, members must prove at least a quarter Cherokee blood quantum.

The UKB opposed slavery and fought for the Union in the Civil War. Within the Cherokee people, there was a division over the Civil War. Others owned slaves and fought for the Confederacy. Congress passed two acts pertaining to the Cherokee people, to strip away all of the rights

of sovereignty and do away with tribes. One of the first, the Curtis Act, abolished the tribal court system, and also declared that tribal chiefs had to be appointed by the president.

Newspaper articles from the early 1900s talked of how the Keetoowah went to Washington, D.C., to oppose this legislation because the Keetoowah wanted to stay a government. Then came the allotment, which the Keetoowah fought against because the tribe considered it assimilation and historically the land had been held collectively. Many did not want to enroll in the Dawes Commission and the Keetoowah Society was formed to attempt to maintain a form of government while still complying with all of the federal laws.

Attorney Frank J. Boudinot represented the Keetoowah Society. Boudinot brought claims on behalf of the full-bloods/Cherokee/Keetoowah, to try and protect tribal members and their interests. Congress passed the Indian Reorganization Act in 1934 and the Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act was passed in 1936. When the OIWA was passed, the full-bloods decided to organize pursuant to this new right of Congress and create the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma.

In 2000, the UKB purchased 76 acres of land in Tahlequah and developed it for several uses, including community services, cultural grounds and an elder center. An application to take the land into trust was submitted in 2004 and was approved by the Department of Interiors Bureau of Indian Affairs in 2011.

Chief Joe Bunch and Assistant Chief Jeff Wacoche preside over a Tribal Council of 13 members, who oversee programs ranging from health care, to behavioral health, to housing assistance. The complex holds the John Hair Cultural Museum, which teaches the history, culture

and traditions through the exhibits and cultural demonstrations.

This year will mark the 74th annual Keetoowah Celebration, which will be held Oct. 5, 2024. This Celebration harks back to Oct. 3, 1950, when the UKB was officially voted to have its constitution and by-laws ratified. The celebration will be held at the UKB complex.

More information is available by calling the main number of the complex at 918-871-2800 or by visiting www.ukb-nsn. gov.

COMPILED BY LEE GUTHRIE

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From small towns to large cities, community-owned, not-for-profit public power utilities, like the Tahlequah Public Works Authority,power homes and businesses in 2,000 communities across the U.S. They provide reliable, low-cost electricity to more than 49 million Americans, while giving back to the communities they serve (publicpower.org).

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Fun in the sun

One of the most appealing factors about moving to Tahlequah and Cherokee County is the great outdoor experiences the area provides. From local swimming spots, Lake Tenkiller, trails, parks and more there is something for anyone looking to get out in the sun for a little bit.

Illinois River

The Illinois River has remained a staple in the community for years. It is hard to find a time on a nice summer day when the public access points aren’t packed, and for good reason. The Illinois River offers a variety of options for entertainment. Whether it is floating down one of the many floating companies that litter the area, fishing, or just having

a cookout, the river offers a variety of great options for everyone. Along with the many activities that visitors can do on their own on the river, the floating companies provide other entertainment value. A variety of spots offer music, with Diamondhead presenting live music throughout the season. Along with that, the Illinois River Jam and Terp Float are highly

anticipated events every year.

City Parks

Tahlequah offers a variety of city parks that are great for a casual day in the sun, a swim, or even skateboarding. There is something for everyone around town. With a variety of parks around town, guests can find spots to cool off, places to run their dogs and playgrounds for the little ones. Tahlequah offers a high-end skate park that includes plenty of ramps, rails, ledges and a full bowl for skaters to enjoy. The skate park hosts the popular yearly Skate Jam event.

Tenkiller Ferry Lake

While not in Tahlequah proper, Tenkiller’s closest access point lies about 15 miles outside of city limits. Tenkiller offers a variety of spots to launch from, such as Cookson Marina, Cherokee Landing and much more. There are a variety of marinas

spread across the lake. Tenkiller offers a robust amount of opportunities including boat rentals, marina ports and a spectacular fishing spot. A large variety of fish species can be caught at Tenkiller, including largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish and catfish.

Tahlequah Trails

Since 2019, Tahlequah Trails has been looking to bring a good trail system for mountain bike riders. With their base near Welling Ridge, the group has completed four miles of trails in less than five years. The group works to keep the trail clean and in good shape for riders. Six more miles are going to be added to the trail system in the coming future. The course offers three trial systems, ranging from easiest to hardest: Little Brother, Big Brother and Wildfire.

COMPILED BY JAKE SERMERSHEIM

Teeing Off

Throughout the area, there are plenty of places for outdoor activities, with several golf courses in the area.

With the weather being generally warmer in Oklahoma, the golf season is a lot longer than in other states, with weather sometimes permitting play as early as January in some cases. The summer months prove to be a busy season for golf courses. While the sport is popular, local superintendents do run into some problems in maintaining their courses. Once the weather heats up, courses are on scorch watch, as they work to keep the courses in top-notch shape across the area.

There are a variety of courses residents can play.

Tahlequah City Course

Opened in 1928 and renovated in 1958. the city course is nine holes and just a par 34. This is one of the shorter courses in the area, totaling just 2,466 yards. This course doesn’t have any par 5 on the men’s side of the course, and just one from the women’s tees. If you are just looking for a place to practice,

there is a driving range. Greens fees are just $10 per day or $7 for seniors or children. Annual memberships come in at $225 for adults, and $200 for seniors, or families can get a membership for $360. This course can be found at 2200 Golf Course Road.

Cherokee Trails

Another nine-hole course, Cherokee Trails offers a longer experience than the City Course. At 3,244 yards, this course offers more of a challenge than the City Course. For those looking to stay out of pesky sand traps, this is the perfect option. This course opens every day at 7:30 a.m. and closes at dark. On the weekday, rates are $25, and $27.50 on the weekend. Annual memberships are $475. This is a nine-hole course, but there are multiple tees to play 18 holes from. Cherokee Trails is at 22706 S. 504 Road.

Cherokee Springs

This golf course offers an 18-hole experience with a 72.8 rating on bent grass. At 6,814 yards, this is the longest and most difficult course in the area. Weekday green fees start as low as 30, with twilight fees going into effect after 2 p.m. Annual memberships start at $1,750.

Sequoyah State Park

Listed at 3,040 yards, Sequoyah State Park offers medium ground in the area’s nine-hole courses. Despite not being the longest course, this course has some obstacles to get around. Water, doglegs and uneven landscapes offer a challenge to golfers. This course is 19277 Park 10 in Hulbert.

COMPILED BY JAKE SERMERSHIEM

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Slice of History

Cherokee County has a storied past in terms of both Oklahoma and Native American history. Tahlequah offers a wide variety of Native historical sites and museums, including the Cherokee National History Museum and John Hair Cultural Center and Museum. The city and surrounding areas also allow visitors to take a peek back in time with Hunter’s Home, the Tahlequah History Trail, and Northeastern State University’s Seminary Hall. Most don’t have to go far to find a building of historical value in Tahlequah. For example, the Cherokee National History Museum is just a short walk from the Cherokee National Prison Museum and Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum. There are several other historical sites visitors can see in the area. Several can be visited multiple times, and each time, visitors get a chance to learn something new. A printout of each Cherokee National Landmark can be found at each museum to guide patrons to the various historical sites.

Cherokee National History Museum

The Cherokee National History Museum is at 101 S. Muskogee Ave. The museum is housed in what was once the Cherokee National Capitol building. The 7,000-square-feet building was restored and opened in 2019 to showcase art and tribal heritage. Several exhibits at the museum are hands-on and interactive and tell the entire Cherokee story. An example of this is the Trail of Tears exhibit, where patrons can listen to descendants reading stories about those who walked the Trail of Tears. Admission into the museum is free. The Cherokee National History Museum is open from Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, call 877-779-6977 or

go to www.visitcherokeenation. com/attractions/cherokee-national-history-museum.

Cherokee Nation Gift Shop

The Cherokee Nation Gift Shop, at 3393 Cherokee Springs Road, offers residents and visitors a wide range of handmade items. The shop also gives patrons a chance to purchase items handmade by members of federally recognized tribes, who have their creations on display in the building. While patrons can find wood carvings, paintings, and jewelry, they can also purchase other commercial items, such as books, T-shirts, and more. Cherokee citizens, veterans, and Cherokee Nation employees can receive a 10% discount on all purchases. For more information, call 918-207-3582.

Hunter’s Home

Hunter’s Home, 19479 E. Murrell Home Road, was a house once occupied by George Murrell and his wife, Minerva, who was Cherokee Chief John Ross’ niece. George later married Minerva’s sister, Amanda, after her death. The couple met in Athens, Tennessee, but when the Native American tribes were forced from their land to Indian Territory – what is now Oklahoma – George left with his wife. As was Cherokee custom, the property was owned by the wife,

and it was later dubbed Hunter’s Home by George to reflect his fox hunting passion. The family never returned to the property after the war, but various family members of Amanda lived in Hunter’s Home throughout the 19th Century. The home and property is now a living historical site that features live animals, historical interpreters dressed in 19th Century clothing, gardens, and more. Hunter’s Home hosts various activities from story times to tours to various workshops. For more information, go to https:// okhistory.org/sites/huntershome or call 918-456-2751.

Cherokee National Research Center

The Cherokee National Research Center, 3377 Cherokee Springs Road, holds thousands of archives and artifacts that were once at the Cherokee Heritage Center. The facility houses a research library, genealogical service, and archival material that help preserve Cherokee assets. The genealogical services are offered to assist in research over family history. To increase accessibility, the center is digitizing its collection, but for those who would like to go in person, the documents, artifacts, and more can be viewed upon request. Those seeking genealogy services must have an appointment and must fill out an application, with the library and research room

admissions free for public use. The center is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, go to https://visitcherokeenation.com/ attractions/cherokee-national-research-center.

John Hair Cultural Center and Museum

The John Hair Cultural Center and Museum is at 18280 W. Keetoowah Circle. The museum offers visitors a chance to see permanent exhibits, as well as temporary installments. While art exhibits can be found at the center, a gift shop offers handmade Keetoowah Cherokee items for sale. To showcase outstanding Keetoowah members, who partake in soapstone carving, traditional dress-making, or other cultural and creative talent, the John Hair Cultural Center and Museum awards the Tradition Keeper title to those working to preserve the culture. This title has been awarded since 2005, with those receiving it not only honing their craft, but sharing their knowledge. For more information, call 918-8712866 or go to www.ukb-nsn.gov/ john-hair-cultural-center-museum.

Tahlequah History Trail

Tahlequah History Trail offers both a venue for exercise and a way of taking in the Tahlequah

sites and learning some history at the same time. The trail was launched in 1992, when it was just a drawing of paths near Town Branch Creek. Those wanting to take in the sites can either bike or walk the 10-foot-wide path, which features lighting and emergency phone stations. Guests can enjoy the walk as they pass by familiar sights like the Cherokee Capitol Square, Franklin Castle, NSU’s Seminary Hall, and more. Plaques line the trail and give historical context about different buildings and other historical insights. The roughly 1-1/4-mile trail connects Sequoyah Park to Ross Park to Felts park. For more information and a map of landmarks, go to www.cityoftahlequah.com/483/ Tahlequah-History-Trail.

Northeastern StateSeminaryUniversity’s Hall

Seminary Hall, 600 N. Grand Ave., was reconstructed in Tahlequah in 1889, but this is not where the story of the seminary begins. The Cherokee Female Seminary was originally built in Park Hill, where it eventually burned in 1887. The Cherokee Female Seminary was the first female higher learning institution west of the Mississippi. The state of Oklahoma eventually purchased the seminary in 1909. Seminary Hall experienced recent renovations that were completed in 2023, as well as the addition of a museum at the site. Recent renovations were the 12th of their kind since its opening. The museum was added to the third floor and repairs were made to the exterior of the building. The museum helps showcase the history between Cherokee Nation and Northeastern State University. For more information, go to https://visitcherokeenation.com/attractions/ seminary-hall-nsu. Seminary Hall is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Cherokee National Prison Museum

The Cherokee National Prison Museum, 124 E. Choctaw St.,

offers patrons a chance to learn about Cherokee law and order. The building offers free admission for all ages. Patrons will not only read about the prison, which was built in 1875, and some of the inmates held within its walls, but they will also get a chance to see real jail cells, a replica kitchen, and the large white gallows. When guests look out the barred windows of the building, they can see how the gallows would have been intimidating and frightening to prisoners. Artifacts from the prison are displayed throughput the two-story building, showing what life might’ve been like during the late 1800s. The site offers interactive features, such as one that shows the weight of a ball and chain and one that quizzes visitors on what items were used to escape from the prison. The museum educates patrons about famous outlaws and events in the area, as well as history about Cherokee crime and punishment, daily life at the prison, and law enforcement. For more information, go to https://visitcherokeenation.com/attractions/ cherokee-national-prison-museum.

Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum

Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum, 122 E. Keetoowah St., is another two-story tribal museum that is free for visitors. Built in 1844, the Cherokee National Supreme

Court Museum is the state’s oldest government building that is still standing. While the Cherokee National Prison Museum describes crime and punishment, the Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum educates about the tribe’s judicial system. Visitors can see how order was kept in the court by taking in the mock courtroom on the first floor. An original Cherokee Advocate printing press, journalism works from

the Cherokee Phoenix, and the Cherokee journalism evolution can be analyzed. Those curious about language can learn about the creation of the Cherokee Syllabary by Sequoyah. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, go to https://visitcherokeenation.com/attractions/ supreme-court-museum.

COMPILED

BY

SKYLER HAMMONS

Crawfish Fest VI

Keeping the Faith

Apostolic

First Assembly of God Church: 5974 State Highway 82, Peggs; 918-598-4002.

First Apostolic Church of Welling: 19177 S. Welling Road; https://facwellingok. wordpress.com/.

Markham Ferry Apostolic: 300 State Highway 82, Locust Grove; 918-479-8769.

Assembly of God

Calvary Assembly of God: 1005 E. First St.; 918-458-9373.

Generations Church: 3229 S. Muskogee Ave.; www.generationsok.com; 918-456-0910.

Baptist

Antioch Baptist: 100 S. Cedar Ave.; www. antiochtahlequah.org; 918-456-9461.

Barber Baptist: 26864 E. 8662 Road; Welling; 918-772-7937.

Blessed Hope Baptist: 17119 W. 782 Road; 918-931-8579.

Blue Springs General: 9572 State Highway 82, Hulbert.

Calvary Indian Baptist: 419 S. Bluff Road; 918-456-2367.

Caney General Baptist: 26148 E. 813 Road, Welling.

Carter Baptist: 21521 E. 843 Road, Park Hill; 918-457-5988.

Cedar Tree Baptist: 23711-23849 OK-51.

Clear Creek Free Will Baptist: 9683 W. 680 Road, Hulbert; 918-598-3453.

Cookson Baptist: 32171 State Highway 82.

Crescent Valley Baptist: 25641 S. Crescent Valley Road; www.cvbc.org; 918-456-6590.

Crossway Baptist: 230 North St.; 918-4589778.

Dry Creek General: 30975 S. 584 Road, Bunch.

Elm Tree Baptist: 1390 E. Crafton St.

First Baptist of Hulbert: 126 E. Fifth St.; www.fbchulbert.com; fbchulbert126@gmail. com; 918-772-2579.

First Indian Baptist: 304 N. Maple Ave.; 918-718-4351.

Tahlequah Worship Center: 18598 E. Beaverson Road; tahlequahworshipcenter@ gmail.com.

Grace Baptist: 1501 N. Grand Ave.; www. gbctahlequah.org/; 918-456-4320.

Iglesia Bautista de la Gracia: 1501 N. Grand Ave.; www.gbctahlequah.org/; rkryder@avmi.org; 918-822-3033.

Keys First Southern Baptist: 26347 State

Highway 82; www.keyschurch.org;918-4561335.

Landmark Missionary Baptist: 256 Rayne St.; www.tahlequahlandmarkbaptist. org; 918-456-4140.

Mt. Zion General Baptist of Teresita: 4386 N. 495 Road, Rose; 918-868-3814.

New Greenleaf Baptist: 14722 W. 807 Road.

Park Hill Baptist: 22432 State Highway 82; hello@churchatparkhill.com; 918-4564075.

River Valley Baptist: 8229 N. State Highway 10; 918-513-1841.

Southside Baptist: 300 Parker St.; southsidebaptisttahlequah@gmail.com; 918-4562161.

Steeley Springs Baptist: 14025 N. 525 Road; steeleyspringsbc@gmail.com.

Tahlequah First Baptist: 201 Ron Rice Ave.; info@fbctah.org; www.fbctah.org.

Welling General Baptist: 20445 S. 560 Road.

Catholic

Our Lady of Clear Creek Abbey: 5804 W. Monastery Road; www.clearcreekmonks.org; 918-772-2454.

St. Brigid Catholic Church: 807 Crafton St.; www.stbrigidtahlequah.com; 918-4568388.

St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church: 26826 S. Indian Road.

Church of Christ

Central Church of Christ: 1303 W. Keetowah St. 918-239-4128.

Hulbert Church of Christ: W. Main St.; www.hulbertchurchofchrist.org; 918-4560836.

Moodys Church of Christ: 9723 Highway 82A; 918-456-9353.

South College Church of Christ: 410 S. College Ave.; www.sccofc.org; 918-456-3414.

Christian (Disciple of Christ)

First Christian: 746 S. Cedar Ave.; www. firstchristiantahlequah.org; 918-456-2415.

Episcopalian

St. Basil’s Episcopal: 814 N. Vinita Ave.;

918-456-3649.

Independent Holiness

Harvest Time Tabernacle: 2009 N. Grand Ave.; 918-456-2812.

Masena Holiness: 20277 E. Allen Road; masenaholinesschurch@yahoo.com.

Jehovah’s Witness

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses: 710 E. Ross St.; 918-456-9894.

Latter-Day Saints

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Tahlequah Ward: 110 Southridge Road; 918-456-6356.

Lutheran

First Lutheran: 2111 Mahaney Ave.; 918456-5070; www.firstlutherantahlequah.org.

Methodist

Cookson United Methodist: 21685 W. Cookson Bend Road; ww.cooksonumc.net; 918-457-5717.

D.D. Etchieson Indian United Methodist: 412 W. Seneca St.; 918-772-5055.

Tahlequah First United Methodist: 300 W. Delaware St.; tahlequahumc.org;918-4566141.

Hulbert United Methodist: 510 S. Elm St.; 918-557-7337.

Woodall United Methodist: 24732 S. 470 Road; crobinson@clergy.okumc.org.

Nazarene

Tahlequah Church of the Nazarene: 20443 E. Allen Road; www.tahlequahnazarene. org; 918-456-2866.

Pentecostal

Faith Chapel Pentecostal Church of God: 12091 State Highway 82A.

Family Christian Center: 2507 S. Muskogee Ave.; 918-718-9222.

Grace and Peace Fellowship: 8198 N. 450 Road, Hulbert; 918-822-3455.

Keys Church of God: 25147 Highway 82; pastoraaron@keyschurchofgod.org; 918-6952587.

Union Full Gospel: 21464 Stick Ross Mountain Road; 918414-5071.

United Pentecostal Church of Tahlequah: 2030 N. Grand Ave.; 918-453-0219.

Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church of Tahlequah: 315 E. Shawnee St.; pastor@firstprestahlequah. com; 918-456-2271.

Park Hill Presbyterian: 21543 S. 523 Road.

Quakers

Tahlequah Friends Fellowship: 536 Summit Ave.; davnagle@hotmail.com; www.hominyfriends.org; 918-885-2714.

Seventh Day Adventist

Church of God Seventh Day: 325 E. Ward St.; 918-7728360.

Unitarian Universalist

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Tahlequah: 104 N. College Ave.; www.facebook.com/ UUTAHLEQUAH; 918-708-6032.

Other or Nondenominational

Abundant Life Fellowship: 1330 N. Cedar Ave.; alft.org; 918458-0040.

Bethesda Worship Center: 1103 W. Fourth St.; 918-360-5007.

Briggs Church: 25083 Highway 51; 918-207-8571.

Come and Dine Full Gospel: 1984 N. Grand Ave.; 918-458-3010.

Community Christian Fellowship: State Highway 82 South of Keys.

Congregation of the Mighty: 825 W. Choctaw Ave.

Cornerstone Fellowship: 718 Pendleton St.; www.cornerstonefellowship.tv; 918-456-4901.

Crossroads Ministries: 213 W. Choctaw St.; 918-869-8642.

Double Springs Church of God: 13657 N. 470 Road.

Faith Fellowship: 1002 S. College Ave.; www.ffctah.org; 918-718-1466.

God’s Mountain Church: 17138 E. 626 Road, Rose; 918-8686843.

Hillside Church: 900 S.

Campbell Road; www.efreetahlequah.com; 918-456-4062.

Light of Christ Community: 22 Summit Ridge Drive; 918-456-3421.

Love Light Christian Center: 312 Maple St.; www.lovelightministries.org; 918-822-7688.

Manna Ministries: 15621 E. 67 Road.

New Life Worship Center: 16818 Highway 62; www.newlifeok.org; 918-456-8500.

Peggs Community Church: 6459 Highway 82; 918-598-3126.

Tahlequah Bible Church: 107 S. Mission Ave.; 918-4585133.

Victorious Life World Outreach: 24389 Highway 82, Park Hill; 918-456-5683.

Tahlequah Roots Church: 312 Muskogee Ave.; www.tahlequahroots.church; 918-708-1442.

The Church at Tahlequah: 420 S. Muskogee Ave.; www. thewayok.com.

COMPILED BY SKYLER HAMMONS

Home • Auto

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Join the Club

AAUW, Tahlequah branch: tahlequah-ok.aauw.net.

American Legion Post 50: 118 N. Brookside Ave.; 918-431-1464.

American Legion Post 135: 1390 N. Legion Drive, 918-456-6768; https://www. facebook.com/okamericanlegionpost135/.

Arts Council of Tahlequah: 215 S. Muskogee Ave., 918-457-7345; https://www. facebook.com/ArtsCouncilofTahlequah/.

Books and Brunch Book Club: Tahlequah Public Library, 120 S. College Ave., 918-456-2581; eols.org.

Blue Star Mothers Chapter 21: https:// www.facebook.com/BlueStarMothersCherokeeCapitalOK/.

Boys and Girls Club of Tahlequah: 400 S. Morgan Ave.; 918-456-6888.

CARE Food Pantry: First Presbyterian Church, 315 E. Shawnee St.; 918-458-5338.

Cherokee Masonic Lodge No. 10: 121 W. Choctaw St., 918-819-2110; https://www. facebook.com/cherokeemasoniclodge10/.

Cherokee Capital Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution; https://cherokeecapitalchapter-nsdar. weebly.com/.

Cherokee County Democratic Party: https://cherokee.okdemocrats.org/home.

Cherokee County Libertarian Party: https://www.facebook.com/CherokeeCountyLibertarianParty.

Cherokee County Republican Party:417-847-7427; https://www.facebook.com/ cherokeecountyrepublicanparty/; 918-520-3742.

Cherokee County Republican Women: https://www.facebook.com/cherokeecountyokrepublicanwomen.

Cherokee County Retired Educators Association: Kriss Harris, president; 918-9310982.

Cherokee County TSET Healthy Living Program: 135 N. Muskogee Ave.; 918-5064058.

Cherokee County Veterans Council: https://www.facebook.com/p/OK-Cherokee-County-Veterans-Council; 800-256-0671.

Cherokee Cruisin’ Classic Car Club: Mitchell DuVall, 918-458-0660 or Jon Edwards, 453-9066.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Cherokee County: 201 E. Delaware St.; 918-456-8788.

Disabled American Veterans Chapter 31: 300 E. Choctaw St.; 918-931-1132.

Elks Lodge No. 2601: 320 E. Downing St.; 918-239-0488.

Encore! Performing Society: 1200 Jamestown Drive; 918-803-1408.

4-H: 908 S. College Ave.; 918-456-6163.

Friends of the Library: 14 E. Shawnee St.; 918-683-2846; https://www.facebook.com/ FriendsOfTheTahlequahPublicLibrary.

Future Farmers of America: Tahlequah Public Schools, 918-458-4100; Keys Public Schools, 918-456-4501; Hulbert Public Schools, 918-772-2501.

Green Country Seed Savers: https://seedsavingnetwork.proboards.com.

Help In Crisis: 205 N. College Ave.; 918456-0673; Helpincrisisinc.org.

Hunter’s Home: 19479 E. Murrell Road, Park Hill; 918-456-2751.

Indian Territory Genealogical and Historical Society: 918-316-4535; https://www. facebook.com/indianterritoryghs/.

Kiwanis Club of Tahlequah: 112 W Choctaw St. No. 2; 918-816-1915; https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100064651994218.

Nasturtium Garden Club: https://www. facebook.com/p/Nasturtium-Garden-Club. Northeastern Toastmasters Club: www. toastmasters.org.

Oklahoma Home and Community Education: 908 S. College Ave.; 918-4566163. https://extension.okstate.edu/county/ cherokee/.

Rotary Club of Tahlequah and Cherokee County: https://www.tahlequahrotaryclub. org/.

Soroptimist International of Tahlequah: https://www.facebook.com/SoroptimistTahlequah/; sitahlequah@soroptimist.net.

Tahlequah Area Habitat for Humanity: 816 S. College Ave.; www.tahlequahhabitat. org; 918-453-1332.

Tahlequah City Hospital Auxiliary: 1400 E. Downing St.; 918-456-0641.

Tahlequah Community Garden: https:// www.facebook.com/TahlequahCommunityGarden/.

Tahlequah Community Playhouse: https://tcpok.com/; 539-234-9444.

Tahlequah Day Center: https://www. tahlequahdaycenter.com/; 309 S. Muskogee Ave.; 918-453-9778.

TahEquality: https://www.facebook.com/ Tahlequalitylgbt/.

Tahlequah Farmers’ Market: http://www. tahlequahfarmersmarket.org/.

Tahlequah High School Kick Off Club: 591 Pendleton Ave.; https://www.facebook. com/TahlequahTigerFootball/, https://tahlequahathletics.org/teams/football/.

Tahlequah Lions Club: 1001 N. Grand Ave.; 918-444-4004; https://www.facebook. com/tahlequahlions/.

Tahlequah Main Street Association: 123 N. Muskogee Ave.; 918-289-2706; https:// www.tahlequahmainstreet.com/.

Tahlequah Public Schools Foundation: 225 N. Water Ave.; 918-458-4100; https:// www.facebook.com/tahlequahpublicschoolsfoundation/.

Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Society: http://tahlequahrockclub.org/; https://www. facebook.com/TahlequahRockandMineralSociety/.

Tahlequah Soccer Club: 1047 W. Allen Road; 918-453-3838 https://www.tahlequahsoccerclub.com/; https://www.facebook. com/TahlequahSoccerClub/.

Tahlequah Writers: https://www.facebook.com/TahlequahWriters/.

Tenkiller Area Community Organization: https://www.facebook.com/TacoCookson.

Tenkiller Women’s Club: https://www. facebook.com/tenkillerwomensclub.

The Thompson House: 300 S. College Ave.; 918-348-1276; https://thompsonhousetahlequah.com/.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3707: 128 E. Choctaw St.; 918-316-2055; https://www. facebook.com/p/VFWA-Post-3707.

Victor Echo Tango Foundation: 26077 S. 558 Road; Park Hill; 918-779-8227.

COMPILED

BY LAYCE

GARDNER

OKLAHOMA'S FUTURE PHYSICIANS STARTHERE

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NeoHealth Pediatrics

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