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Best of Muskogee
Our readers have chosen
We asked you to choose the best of the best in the Muskogee area. Whether it’s the best burger, people, dealerships or one of the other more than 150 categories, you voted. Here are the results.
Special categorieS
best civic club
ExchangE club of MuskogEE. The Exchange Club of Muskogee works to respond to numerous local charities, community problems, school needs and other requests for donations.
Runners-up: 2. Muskogee County 4-H. 3. Rotary Club.
best coMMunity event
ExchangE club of MuskogEE chili & bbQ cook-off. This event is a weekend of entertainment, drinks, chili and barbecue held every April. It is one of the largest events in the area and raises money to give back to the community.
Runners-up: 2. Oklahoma Festival of Ballooning. 3. First Assembly of God fireworks.
Most Friendly business
first bank. You’re always greeted with a smiling face when you walk into Firstar Bank.
Runners-up: 2. Hollywood Hair. 3. American Bank of Oklahoma.
Most iconic business
chEt’s. If you grew up in Muskogee, you have probably eaten at Chet’s. The popular eatery has been in business since 1948.
Runners-up: 2. The Castle of Muskogee. 3. Firstar Bank.
best Painted guitar art
cowboy sitting with guitar. Muskogee’s most whimsical Guitar Art is on West Okmulgee Avenue and features a cowboy holding his guitar.
Runners-up: 2. Firstar Bank. 3. Zomac.
best Place to take a date
colton’s stEak housE. If you are planning to treat your date to a great steak, Colton’s has you covered.
Runners-up: 2. Muskogee Little Theatre. 3. The Castle of Muskogee.
best Place to take the FaMily
honor hEights Park. Muskogee’s own gathering place, Honor Heights dazzles in any season with its azaleas, butterfly house, fall foliage and Garden of Lights.
Runners-up: 2. First Assembly Fireworks. 3. Civitan Park.
best Place to Work
firstar bank.
Runners-up: 2. American Bank of Oklahoma 3.Hollywood Hair .
BeSt auto best auto body shoP
3 rivErs auto collision. 3 Rivers helps get you back on the road in pristine condition.
Runners-up: 2. Port City Body Shop. 3. The Collison Center.
best auto detail store
brooks DEtailing sErvicE. Brooks Detailing Service can have you driving away in a sparkling clean vehicle in no time.
Runners-up: 2. Tender Touch. 3. 3 Rivers Auto Collision.
best auto glass tinting
thE tint shoP. Customers can’t say enough good things about Tint Lady — fast, efficient, quality work.
Runners-up: 2. Ed Ledbetter. 3. Tint Plus Pro Wrap.
best auto rePair shoP
Discount tirE East. Discount Tire staff performs quality work and are professional and friendly.
Runners-up: 2. Three Rivers Repair. 3. D&W Auto Repair.
best neW
autoMobile dealershiP
JaMEs hoDgE forD. If you’re looking for a new vehicle, James
Hodge Ford has something for every need and taste.
Runners-up: 2. Kyle Edwards. 3. Nissan of Muskogee.
best used autoMobile dealershiP
JaMEs hoDgE forD. No matter what type of vehicle you’re in the market for, James Hodge can get help you find just what you need.
Runners-up: 2. Kyle Edwards. 3. James Hodge Toyota.
best Place to buy a truck
JaMEs hoDgE forD. If you’re looking for a crew cab for the family or a dually for hauling big loads, James Hodge Ford can help find just the right truck to meet your needs.
Runners-up: 2. Kyle Edwards. 3. Jay Hodge Chevrolet.
best oil/lube
EastsiDE ExPrEss lubE. Don’t have much time, but want your vehicle serviced properly? Eastside Express can keep you rolling.
Runners-up: 2. Oil Express. 3. Grease Monkey.
Taking care of customers, business
Story and Photo S By Cathy Spaulding
EastsiDE ExPrEss lubE ownEr crEDits custoMErs with businEss’ succEss
Eastside Express Lube workers paid close attention to Jack Peddy’s GMC Elevation — rotating and inflating its large tires, checking and changing the oil and other fluids during a recent visit.
Peddy, an Express Lube customer for 19 years, said this is the second vehicle he’s had serviced by the locally-owned business.
“ They always give me good service and tell me key things needed for my vehicle,” Peddy said. “They take good care of me.”
Express Lube owner Karen Thurber said returning customers play a key role in the business’s success over the past 20
years.
“By the grace of God, we have an extremely loyal customer base,” she said. “We have dedicated employees. We usually have about five employees.”
“It’s the only difference between us and every other lube shop around,” said Thurber, who has been with the business since 2002. “It’s our customer service.”
Oil changes are just a part of Express Lube’s services.
“We do air filters, fuel filters, cabin filters, fuel injection services, transmission flushes, radiator flushes, power steering flushes, wiper blades, tire rotations,” said Thurber, who takes on many tasks her-
self.
Thurber said she is honored that Eastside Express Lube received a Readers’ Choice award.
“We’ve been nominated several times, but this is the first time we have won first place,” she said.
Regular hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.
Customers can get coffee, popcorn or other snacks while waiting inside the air-conditioned waiting room.
Peddy joked with Thurber about sometimes arriving too late to get the hot coffee.
Best of Muskogee
best Place to buy a Motorcycle
MotorsPorts of MuskogEE. Looking to hit the open road on a new motorcycle? MotorSports offers Hondas, Suzukis and Kawasakis, and they also carry Polaris for offroad fun.
Runners-up: 2. Road Track & Trail. 3. Mean Street Motorsports.
best tire store
Discount tirE. No matter what you drive, Discount Tire offers a variety of wheels and tires to choose from.
Runners-up: 2. Harrison Tire. 3. King Tires.
best Wrecker service
Morgan towing. Battery dead? Need a tow? Morgan Towing has you covered with prompt, efficient service.
Runners-up: 2. Mayes Wrecker. 3. D’s Wrecker.
BeSt
Food & dining
best asian Food
china king. China King is back this year and offers the same great cuisine as always.
Runners-up: 2. Sakura. 3. China Express.
best bakery
harMony housE. Whether it is cookies or cake you crave, Harmony House’s bakery has something for your sweet tooth.
Runners-up: 2. Amish Store. 3. Fort Gibson Bakery.
best bbQ
My PlacE wEst. My Place West
offers the best barbecue served by some of the friendliest staff you will every meet.
Runners-up: 2. Runt’s BBQ. 3. Mahylon’s.
best birthday cake
harMony housE. Celebrate with a range of flavors, such as red velvet, white wedding or Oreo, along with old favorites of chocolate, strawberry and vanilla.
booM-a-rang. People keep coming back to Boomarang for its pancake specials, big and small breakfasts and omelettes.
Runners-up: 2. Speedway Grille. 3. Jimmy’s Egg.
best brunch
harMony housE. With a plethora of baked goods and attention to detail, Harmony House offers brunch like no other
Runners-up: 2. Mahylon’s. 3. Muskogee Golf Club.
best buFFet
china king. Whether it’s beef, pork, shrimp or chicken, China King’s buffet has something for everyone.
Runners-up: 2. Pizza Inn. 3. Golden Corral.
best caterer
Mahylon’s. If you’re looking to feed a crowd some of the best food in town, Mahylon’s has some great dishes to hit the spot.
Runners-up: 2. Cowboy’s BBQ. 3. La Antigua.
best catFish
runt’s. People come to Runt’s as much for the light, crisp catfish as for the barbecue. Complement the catfish with homemade tartar sauce. Runners-up: 2. Catfish Ranch. 3. Momma C’s.
best chili
sPEEDway grillE. Speedway serves a satisfying bowl of low- and slowsimmered chili.
Runners-up: 2. Chet’s. 3. Frank-NSwine.
best coFFee
Erly rush. The York Street business is perfect for on-the-go commuters who need their coffee.
Runners-up: 2. Starbucks. 3. Boom-a-rang.
best dessert
harMony housE. Harmony House’s delectable sweets will keep you coming back.
Runners-up: 2. Amish Restaurant. 3. Fort Gibson Bakery.
best donuts
chanDlEr roaD Donuts. Anyone on the hunt for glazed, jelly, chocolate or plain can be served by Chandler Road Donuts.
Runners-up: 2. Jack’s Donuts. 3. Donut Palace.
best Fast Food Place
chick-fil-a. Not only is the food top-knotch, but the service and employees can’t be beat.
Don Julio’s. Grab some street tacos with your choice of sauce. Expand
your horizons with hamburgers, sausage, and spicy pork.
Runners-up: 2. Smack That. 3. JJ Dawgs.
best French Fries
bEacon DrivE-in. People in Muskogee know a good french fry, and Muskogee says Beacon’s fries are the tastiest.
Runners-up: 2. McDonald’s. 3. Chick-Fil-A.
best Fried chicken
charliE’s chickEn. Look for the boxing bandy when you want fried chicken and chunks. This locallyowned chain has sought to do “what’s right for the customer” since 1975.”
Runners-up: 2. Chick-Fil-A. 3. Church’s.
best grocery store
hoMElanD. Two convenient locations offer shoppers a way to stock their kitchens. Homeland at York and Chandler Road offers a meat and seafood market, plus an ample variety of wines and beer. Runners-up: 2. Harps. 3. Cash Saver.
best haMburger/ cheeseburger
bEacon DrivE-in. For a juicy, flavorful burger, Beacon can’t be beat.
Runners-up: 2. Boom-a-rang on York. 3. Double K Burgers.
best hoMestyle cooking
aMish rEstaurant. Hearty, old fashioned homestyle favorites, such as chicken fried steak, beef stew and meat loaf. But, save lots of room for the desserts. There also are plenty of take-home treats.
Reade R s’
Runner-up: Sam’s Southern Eatery.
best hot dog
chEt’s. People have been coming to Chet’s for 75 years. You can top the little gems with chili, cheese, onions, relish, or all four.
Runners-up: 2. Beacon Drive-In. 3. Frank N Swine.
best italian Food
gino’s. Enjoy an array of chicken dishes, baked pastas, pizzas and spaghetti, complemented with steamy fresh bread twists.
Runner-up: 2. American Pie.
best Margarita
loPEz grill. A little salt and lime accents Lopez’ tart-sweet margaritas.
Runners-up: 2. La Antigua. 3. Chili’s.
best Mexican Food
loPEz grill. Tour the multiple flavors of Mexico, and beyond, with such favorites as chimichanga Jalisco, Hawaiian fajitas and molcajete.
Runners-up: 2. El Charro. 3. La Antigua.
best Milkshake
brauM’s. With two locations in Muskogee, Braum’s offers thick milkshakes in as many flavors as it has in its bins.
Runners-up: 2. Beacon Drive-In. 3. Freddy’s.
best Pizza
aMErican PiE. This cozy downtown spot offers several unique pizzas. American Pie specializes in its
wood-fired crisp crust.
Runners-up: 2. Pisano’s. 3. Pizza Inn.
best salad bar
Pizza inn. The salad bar at Pizza Inn features an array of fresh vegetables, pizza, pasta and croutons.
Runners-up: 2. Mazzio’s. 3. Golden Corral.
best sandWiches
McalistEr’s DEli. McAlister’s offers hand-crafted sandwiches, fresh salads, ginormous spuds, and their Famous Sweet Tea.
colton’s stEak housE. From a 6-ounce sirloin to an 18-ounce Porterhouse, Colton’s cooks steaks to satisfy your tastes.
Runners-up: 2. Zollie’s. 3. Mahylon’s.
best tacos
Don Julio’s. Don Julio’s has a
following when it comes to the best tacos in town.
Runners-up: 2. Tacos La Morena. 3. Hamlin’s.
BeSt entertainment/travel
best bar/nightliFe
Max’s garagE. Tune up your nightlife with a visit to this wellstocked bar, featuring a great menu and live entertainment.
Runners-up: 2. The Break. 3. Muskogee Golf Club.
best casino
chErokEE nation casino. The multi-hued lights outside entice people inside to enjoy 500 electronic gaming machines.
Runner-up: 2. Creek Nation Casino.
best hotel
hoME 2 suitEs. With separate sleeping and living spaces, their studio and one-bedroom suites provide you with a comfortable stay.
Runners-up: 2. Holiday Inn Express. 3. Hampton Inn.
best live Music venue
oklahoMa Music hall of faME. OMHOF draws some of the best local musicians in the area, and the best visiting bands.
Runners-up: 2. Max’s Garage. 3.Cherokee Casino Fort Gibson.
best MuseuM
fivE civilizED tribEs MusEuM. Explore the wealth of artistic and historic treasures of the Cherokee, Creek, Choctaw, Chickasaw and Seminole.
Runners-up: 2. Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. 3. Three Rivers
Museum.
best Park
honor hEights Park. Muskogee’s own gathering place, Honor Heights dazzles in any season with its azaleas, butterfly house, fall foliage and Garden of Lights.
Runners-up: 2. Civitan Park. 3. Robison Park.
best Playground
honor hEights Park. Youngsters and young-at-heart enjoy the slides, climbing towers and ramps at Honor Heights’ playground.
Runner-up: 2. Civitan Park.
best sPorts/
recreational
Facility
h atbox f i E l D . This 60-acre site has become the place to swim, jog, bicycle and play ball.
Runners-up: 2. Swim and Fitness. 3. Muskogee Golf Club.
best travel agency
aaa. From recommendations on destinations and activities to AAA maps, TripTiks, and Tour Book guides, AAA’s trusted travel resources are here for you when you’re ready to start your travel planning.
Runner-up: 2. The Joy of Travel.
BeSt people
best adMinistrative assistant
JEssica anthis - first financial cEntEr. Anthis is friendly, experienced and excels at her job. Runners-up: 2. Adrienne Elliott - American Bank of OK. 3. Angie O’Neal - Hammons.
Reade R s’ Choi C e
best auto Mechanic
nick cannon - nix autoMotivE. Cannon operates his auto repair shop with courtesy and professionalism.
Runners-up: 2. Brian SladerBrian’s Auto Repair. 3. Shawn Bird.
best auto salesPerson
allEn Jackson - kylE EDwarDs
buick gMc. Jackson knows the car business inside and out. If you’re in need of a vehicle, Jackson is an expert in the business.
shirlEy hilton-flanary - aMErican bank of oklahoMa. Hilton-Flanary is well-versed in mortgages and has helped countless people to secure the homes of their dreams.
holly girarD - holly’s Day sPa. The spa offers microdermabrasion, eye brow tints, electrolysis, facials and more to keep you looking your best.
Runners-up: 2. Whitney LlamasWhit’s Beauty Bar. 3. Thai Deip.
best FireFighter
ryan hinEr - MuskogEE fD. Hines is ready at a moment’s notice to battle house fires, help with freeing people trapped in vehicles and rescue people from the water.
brian ouslEy - strictly fitnEss. Looking to improve your body or just feel better, Ousley can help you reach your goal.
Runners-up: 2. Karla Sanders Gibson - Fit Happens. 3. Trent Rose The Fort.
best Funeral director
stacy DonElson - cornErstonE. Donelson knows how to offer sympathetic, professional service in time of need.
Runners-up: 2. Keith Biglow - Biglow Funeral Directors. 3. Gordon Mair –Lescher-Millsap. best hair stylist
suE PhaM - hollywooD hair. Pham has quite a following and enjoys offering her customers their choice in cuts, colors and styles. Runners-up: 2. Jessica LegardaCammie’s Salon. 3. Katie Cawvey - Monkey Parlor.
best interior decorator
brigEttE bEarDEn. For all the latest in interior design, Bearden has her finger on the pulse of the industry.
Runners-up: 2. Andria Hill. 3. Walker Lawley.
best laW enForceMent oFFicer
branDon harris - MuskogEE PD. Harris is a dedicated, compassionate officer who takes his job seriously. Runners-up: 2. Brian Hackett Muskogee PD. 3. Brandon Garner Muskogee PD.
best loan oFFicer
shirlEy hilton-flanary - aMErican bank of ok. Hilton-Flanary is well-versed in mortgages and has helped countless people to secure the homes of their dreams. Runners-up: 2. Jennifer Cotner - Firstar Bank. 3. Corey SissonFirstar Bank.
best nurse
DEbi ouslEy. Ousley practices nursing with compassion and care. Runner-up: 2. Valerie - Cherokee Nation Pediatrics.
best Postal carrier
ryan flEtchEr. Fletcher goes out of his way to make sure he serves the customers on his route with a friendly disposition.
Runners-up: 2. Doug Davison. 3. Kyle Adkins.
best real estate agent
lEsliE lEEDs - lEsliE scott rEalty. Leeds works hard to find her clients just the right home, and when it’s time to sell, she already knows the market and is ready to deal.
Runners-up: 2. Monica MedleyCentury 21 Clinkenbeard. 3. David Clark - Interstate.
best teacher
laurEn Evans - hillDalE. Evans goes the extra mile to make sure her Hilldale students get the education they deserve.
Runner-up: 2. Jessica ScottSadler Arts.
best volunteer
bryon brust - first financial cEntEr. Trust teaches Sunday school classes, is one of the founders of the Hilldale Education Foundation, has served on the board of Kids’ Space and coaches youth sports.
Runners-up: 2. Tammy Toombs. 3. Grace Evans.
best Waiter/Waitress
aMy kaisEr - Mahylon’s. Kaiser will make sure all of your needs are met when you dine at Mahylon’s.
Runners-up: 2. Tony Jimenez - La Antigua. 3. Regina - Muskogee Golf Club.
BeSt Financial ServiceS
best accounting FirM/ cPa/taxes
bEthany bowlinE. A longtime financial service provider, Bethany Bowline offers comprehensive accounting and bookkeeping, as well as help with taxes and business growth.
Runners-up: 2. Jackson Hewitt. 3. Moffitt Parker.
Cowboy guitar adorns Robinson home
Story and Photo S By Cathy Spaulding
Best of Muskogee
BuSineSS Spotlight
Muskog EE ’s favorit E guitar h E l D by cowboy
B en and Marcia Robinson wanted more than just any fiberglass guitar in their front yard.
“We thought a guitar ought to be played,” Ben Robinson said. “So I called my friends at Yaffee Iron and Metal and asked if they had someone who could make me a stick cowboy.”
For at least 10 years, a stick metal cowboy in a white hat has been playing an electric guitar on the Robinson yard, 1416 W. Okmulgee Ave.
Robinson, a former state senator who earned the nickname “Bulldog,” recalled being approached by the Muskogee Area Arts Council to see if he was interested in “sponsoring” a guitar for the Muskogee Rhythms Guitar fundraiser. At the time, the council was authorizing 8-foot fiberglass guitars to be made, then sponsored at a price of $2,500, including $500 for an artist.
Robinson said he had artist Roger Davis paint his guitar.
“We requested there be a bulldog on it,” he said. “We maybe gave him some ideas, and he put it all together.”
Yaffee got Robinson in touch with Greg Wilson, who welded the cowboy.
“We didn’t have the guitar yet,” Robinson said. “I gave him the measurements, what I wanted. It was polished steel, very clean polished steel and it was huge.”
A local Cub Scout pack named the piece “The Great American Cowboy.”
“ The Cub Scouts had a project to locate all the guitars in Muskogee.” Robinson said. “They chose ours as their favorite one by a large majority.”
The blue cowpoke, with his bulldog guitar, has been an eye-catcher at the corner ever since it went up.
“Forever, people have come by and taken pictures of it,” Robinson said. “Marcia and I have come out and taken pictures with them, people from all over the country have been in. They just stop there on the corner and get out.”
Best of Muskogee
best bail bondsMan
okiE bail bonDs. Serves all 77 counties in Oklahoma, they’re available 24/7 and easy payment plans are available.
firstar bank. First is a locally managed bank. They have been named one of the highs-performing community banks in the country.
Runners-up: 2. Bancfirst. 3. Arvest.
best check cashing service
firstar bank. First is a locally managed bank. They have been named one of the highs-performing community banks in the country.
Runners-up: 2. Armstrong Bank. 3. Arvest.
best credit union
MuskogEE fEDEral crEDit union. Muskogee Federal Credit Union was established in 1936, and as of March of 2021, it had grown to 34 employees and 8,720 members at 3 locations.
Runners-up: 2. TTCU. 3. Communication Federal Credit Union.
best Financial advisor services
MikE carMan - EDwarD JonEs. Carman enjoys working with people who are interested in their financial future, understands the importance of financial security and believes your financial goals deserve his personal attention.
Runners-up: 2. Bryon Brust - First Financial Center. 3. John Johnson.
best insurance coMPany
statE farM. State Farm offers all kinds of insurance, including life and homeowners insurance, small business insurance and other financial services.
John tylEr haMMons. Our former mayor of Muskogee has opened a law practice and specializes in business law.
Runners-up: 2. Andy Hayes. 3. Eric Jones.
best auctioneer
rowDy fEwEl. When Fewel isn’t using his auctioneer skills, he’s volunteering with the local Agribusiness Committee.
Runner-up: 2. Arlyn Imel.
best barber shoP
original barbErs. Original Barbers capitalizes in traditional barber shop services. They exceed clients’ expectations and have a passion for what they do.
Runners-up: 2. Hollywood Hair. 3. Cammie’s Salon.
best carPet cleaning
clEan Pro. Owned and operated by the Faught family, Clean Pro specializes in water damage restoration and professional carpet, upholstery, and tile cleaning.
Runners-up: 2. Terry’s Carpet Cleaning. 3. All Clean Cleaners.
best child care/ day care
Jack & Jill. Jack & Jill offers a nurturing, warm environment, and kids are excited to attend every day. Runners-up: 2. Little Okie Academy. 3. Champions.
best coMPuter rePair service
MaDEwEll. The knowledgeable folks at Madewell can help get your computer up and running.
Runners-up: 2. The PC Landing Zone. 3. Sparks.
best consignMent store
nicolE’s closEt. Saundra Marshall and her daughter, Nicole, established Nicole’s Closet, a consignment shop offering many styles and some designer brands for a fraction of what a shopper might
spend in the box stores. Runners-up: 2. Teen Challenge. 3. Rhea Lana’s.
best dry cleaners
archErs clEanErs. If you’ve got a stain on your favorite dress, or just need a pair of pants pressed, Archers can help keep your wardrobe in top condition.
Runner-up: 2. Unique Dry Cleaners.
best electrical services
rEnfro ElEctric. Got a flicker that needs attention? Renfro offers fast service and reasonable prices. Runners-up: 2. Etchison Electric. 3. Tody’s Electric.
best eMPloyMent agency
chErokEE tEMPs. Cherokee Temps specializes in providing temporary and long-term employees in the industrial, administrative, and health occupation work force. Runners-up: 2. Premier USA. 3. Action Group.
best Fire/Water daMage restoration
sErvPro. Servpro’s staff is trained to handle emergencies, such as water, fire or mold.
Runners-up: 2. All Clean. 3. ANW Carpet Cleaning.
best Florist
PoPPy’s garDEn. Full service florist and event planner creating for weddings, events, styled shoots, your everyday floral needs, and everything in between.
Runners-up: 2. Bebb’s Flowers and Gifts. 3. Cagle’s Flowers.
Reade R s’ Choi C e
best Funeral hoMe
cornErstonE funEral hoME. Call Cornerstone when you need the assistance of a caring, compassionate funeral home to help in your time of grief.
bowDEn PEst control. Fort Gibson-based Bowden Pest Control provides professional pestcleaning services aimed at clearing everything from fleas to bedbugs to cockroaches.
Runners-up: 2. Ban-A-Pest. 3. Total Pest Control.
best Pet grooMing
honor hEights. Want Fido to be clean and fluffy? Check out the groomer at Honor Heights Veterinary Clinic.
Runners-up: 2. Town and Country. 3. Filthy Gorgeous.
best PhotograPhy service
MElissa PoffEl. Poffel specializes in family photos, wedding photos and offers mini sessions throughout the year.
Runners-up: 2. Ruth Kelley. 3. Jessica Wilson.
best Place oF WorshiP
boulEvarD christian church. Family is the focus at Boulevard Christian Church.
Runners-up: 2. First Baptist Church. 3. Church of Christ.
best Place to buy a ManuFactured hoMe
clayton hoMEs. Clayton Homes of Muskogee sells expertly crafted mobile and modular homes at a great value.
russEll branan PluMbing. Russell Branan Plumbing specializes in water heater installation and plumbing repairs at affordable prices.
Runners-up: 2. Drew’s Plumbing. 3. Ronco.
best real estate coMPany
cEntury 21-clinkEnbEarD. Century 21 Clinkenbeard Agency specializes in residential and commercial properties. They make it their mission to make the buying and selling of your home and other properties as simple as possible.
Runners-up: 2. ReMax. 3. Interstate.
best rooFing coMPany
tEDDEr’s roofing. If a storm has damaged your home, or it’s time for a new roof, Tedder will have you
covered.
Runners-up: 2. Jesse Morgan - Rockwood Roofing. 3. Classic Metal Roofing.
best tanning salon
ultra tan. Check out the tanning beds at Ultra Tan. Customers praise the helpful staff and powerful, clean beds.
Runners-up: 2. Oasis. 3. Champion Tanning.
best veterinary oFFice
honor hEights vEtErinary clinic. From cats to birds to horses, pet companions get quality care. Services include wellness exams, dental care, genetic health analysis and laser therapy.
Runners-up: 2. Northside Animal Hospital. 3. Animal Medical Center.
BeSt medical/HealtH
best assisted living
EastgatE villagE. For more than 25 years, people have returned to Eastgate to care for loved ones. The center helps residents have as much freedom and independence as possible. Residents are seen as family.
Runners-up: 2. Country Gardens. 3. Pleasant Valley.
best audiologist/hearing aid clinic
MiraclE Ear MuskogEE. Miracle Ear Muskogee stands ready to pair thorough service with modern technology to improve and repair hearing.
Runner-up: 2. Premier Hearing Aid.
best cbd store
okiE MEDical. Okie Medical carries only the best medical grade products in Oklahoma.
Runners-up: 2. Big Papa’s. 3. 918 Roots.
best children’s health care
chilDrEn’s clinic. Parents can expect a variety of health care services for their children. Services include routine exams, immunizations, acute care, adolescent care.
Runners-up: 2. Premier Pediatrics. 3. Dr. Kincaid Cherokee Nation.
best chiroPractic oFFice
Evans chiroPractic. Muskogee chiropractor Dr. Robbie Evans sees patients from all walks of life who are seeking help with a wide variety of injuries and ailments.
Runners-up: 2. McDaniel Family Chiropractic. 3. Miller Chiropractor.
best dentist oFFice
Dr. Eric MassaD. Dr. Eric Massad at Muskogee Family Dental helps ease customers’ fears about going to the dentist’s office, providing quick and helpful service.
Runners-up: 2. Dr. McCall. 3. Dr Massey.
best derMatologist
EnDslEy DErMatology. With about 30 years of experience, Dr. Jeffery Endsley aims to keep customers’ skin clear and healthy.
Runner-up: 2. Epiphany Dermatology.
best disPensary
okiE MEDical. Okie Medical carries only the best medical grade products in Oklahoma.
Runner-up: 2. Big Papa’s.
best doctor’s oFFice
ParkEr faMily clinic. Friendly staff, knowledgeable practices and trustworthy service all come together under Nurse Practitioner Gay Parker at this Muskogee-based clinic.
Runners-up: 2. Dr. Gary Lambert. 3. Fort Gibson Medical.
best Fitness/Weight loss center
strictly fitnEss. Home of the annual Weight Loss Challenge, Strictly Fitness helps customers build a better body with a variety of cardio and weight equipment as well as professional, experienced staff.
Runners-up: 2. Muskogee Swim and Fitness. 3. Legendary Fitness.
best general Practice doctor’s oFFice
MuskogEE faMily MEDicinE. The physicians and staff of Muskogee Family Medicine have provided comprehensive medical care to Muskogee and surrounding communities for over 20 years.
Runners-up: 2. Dr. Gary Lambert. 3. Parker Family Clinic.
best hoMe health services
EncoMPass. A committed home health team offers homebound patients a variety of services, including nursing and physical therapy.
Runners-up: 2. Outreach Home Health. 3. Community Home Health.
best health Food/ nutrition store
okiE nutrition. Okie Nutrition has metabolism boosting energy “teas” and total meal replacement shakes and smoothies.
Runners-up: 2. Health Biz. 3. GNC.
best hosPice
hoMEtown hosPicE. Let your loved ones live out their lives with a teamoriented approach to care. Services include medications and supplies, individualized care, nutrition, respite care and grief counseling.
Runners-up: 2. Encompass. 3. New Century Hospice.
best hosPital
saint francis. Part of the Saint Francis Health System since 2017, this hospital offers high-quality, comprehensive and innovative care across the region. The system’s values encompass excellence, dignity, justice, integrity, and stewardship.
Runner-up: 2. Cornerstone.
best Massage
brEanna garnEr. Garner is a licensed massage therapist since 2012. She specializes in Swedish, pregnancy, reflexology, deep tissue and trigger point massage.
Runners-up: 2. Janway. 3. Blue Rose Massage.
best Medical sPa
nuagE MEDical sPa. Relax, revive and rejuvenate as services include spider vein removal and tattoo removal, treatment for acne, laser resurfacing, cellulite treatment and wrinkle correction.
best Medical suPPly/ aPParel store
kristiE’s scrub shoP. Kristin’s offers
a great selection of uniforms, scrubs and accessories.
Runners-up: 2. Alternacare.
best nursing hoMe
EastgatE villagE. For more than 25 years, people have returned to Eastgate to care for loved ones. The center helps residents have as much freedom and independence as possible. Residents are seen as family.
Runners-up: 2. Pleasant Valley. 3. Country Gardens.
best PharMacy
EconoMy PharMacy. Two branches in Muskogee for this pharmacy dedicated to professional, prompt and personal services. Both branches, which feature unique gift shops, also prepare medicine that meets the needs of individual patients.
Runner-up: 2. Gaddy Drug.
best urgent care center
xPrEss wEllnEss. Xpress Wellness Urgent Care specializes in treating non-life-threatening illnesses and symptoms. The facility is open seven days a week.
Runners-up: 2. Urgent Care32nd St. 3. Parker Family Clinic.
best vision center
EyE carE of MuskogEE. Eye Care of Muskogee offers full vision exams and will diagnose and treat eye diseases and conditions to keep your eyes healthy.
Tedder’s Roofing is a repeat winner of Readers’ Choice.
Business owner Scott Tedder continues to be amazed.
“It’s a great honor, I’ll tell you that,” he said. “I can’t thank our customers enough. I’ve worked my butt off for years to get this. I’m excited to see where Muskogee put us at.”
Tedder said he started his roofing business in 1994, right out of high school.
“For years and years, I did the work myself, and then the business grew and grew,” he said. “We hired employees.”
The business now hires about 21 employ-
ees, he said.
“That varies,” he said. “Roofing is one of those deals where, if you need more employees, you can bring more in.”
Tedder said that, through the years, the business built a reputation for honesty.
“The key to my success is being honest, and when you tell somebody you’re going to do something, you do it,” he said. “My number one thing has been to put God first.”
Covering Muskogee is the company’s top priority, he said.
“We do go out to Wagoner, Coweta, Checotah, Eufaula, McAlester, Tulsa,” Ted-
der said. “We usually stay within a 100-mile radius. If a customer needs me I go to him. I try not to turn a customer down. I don’t care if it’s for a $5 job or a big job.”
Tedder said he has offered free service to elderly people in need.
“If God sends them to me, I’ll help them,” he said.”
The business grew through word of mouth, Tedder said.
He said he appreciates the role his customers played in the business’ success.
“If it wasn’t for them we wouldn’t be there here today,” Tedder said. “I worked seven days a week, daylight to dark, to get there.”
Best of Muskogee
best Physical theraPy
ExcEl Physical thEraPy. Excel offers orthopedic physical therapy, sports physical therapy, pre- and post-surgery rehabilitation, industrial rehabilitation and more.
garfiElD. Originally published locally as Jon in 1976, then in nationwide syndication from 1978 as Garfield, it chronicles the life of the title character, Garfield the cat; Jon Arbuckle, his human owner; and Odie, the dog.
Runners-up: 2. Family Circle. 3. Pearls Before Swine.
best local coluMnist
holly rossEr MillEr. A real estate broker and weiner dog lover, Miller has lived and worked in Muskogee for 20 years.
Runners-up: 2. Mike Kays. 3. John Newby.
best Page in neWsPaPer
front PagE. Keep your eye on the front page to find out what’s happening in Muskogee.
Runners-up: 2. Sports. 3. Classifieds.
best Puzzle
crossworD. A big one appears in Sunday and the smaller, but not necessarily easier are in the paper daily to expand one’s verbal prowess. Runner-up: 2. Sudoku.
BeSt SHopping/StoreS
best ag/laWn eQuiPMent store
tractor suPPly. Tractor Supply offers products for home improvement, agriculture, lawn and garden maintenance, livestock, equine and pet care
hattiE’s housE. Something old and something new can be found in the countless booths of unique gifts, furnishing and nicknacks as well as a good supply of unique clothing items and jewelry.
Runners-up: 2. McClain Furniture. 3. Old American Antiques.
best aPPliance store
lowE’s. If you’re in the market for refrigerators, washers, dryers, ranges and dishwashers, Lowe’s offers a variety of brands and prices.
Runners-up: 2. Hamby’s. 3. Sears Hometown.
best cell Phone store
at&t on york. AT&T on York Offers cell phones, smart phones, tables and accessories. Friendly associations can help find the right phone and the right plan.
Runners-up: 2. US Cellular. 3. T-Mobile.
best children’s clothing store
tJ Maxx. Shoppers can find cute clothes at low prices. Runners-up: 2. Ross Dress for Less. 3. Dunham.
best convenience store
QuiktriP. Tulsa-based chain sells a variety of snacks, coffee and cold drinks. They’ll even make a pizza while you’re getting fuel.
tJ Maxx. Shoppers can find cute clothes at low prices as it offers clothing and and footwear for men, women, teens and children. It also offers plenty of accessories, home goods, toys and even snacks that can be purchased.
Runners-up: 2. Ollie’s. 3. Walmart.
best Flooring store
lowE’s. Whether you’re looking for tile, carpet or large area rugs, Lowe’s has a great selection.
Runner-up: 2. Carpet Warehouse.
best Furniture store
bob loftis furniturE. Loftis offers furniture for every room in your home — from beds to dining tables.
Runners-up: 2. Cooper’s Furniture. 3. Allen Furniture.
best hardWare store
hooPEs harDwarE. In Muskogee for more than 80 years, the store also sells bicycles at its Main Street location.
Runners-up: 2. Keith’s Hardware. 3. Ace Hardware.
best hoMe iMProveMent store
lowE’s. Lowe’s carries everything for home improvement projects or new construction.
Runners-up: 2. Hoopes. 3. Sears Hometown.
best JeWelry store
halEy & loyD. Locally owned by Mike Haley, this store describes itself as the “most trusted jeweler in the market.” The shop offers resizing and repair, custom designs, an online virtual diamond search with select-your-own parameters and a selection of Christian emblems.
Runners-up: 2. Sammy’s Jewelry. 3. Daniel’s.
best liQuor store
usa liQuor. USA offers friendly service, knowledgeable employees and a great selection.
okiE outfittErs. Okie Outfitters was built upon the idea that a man should have a place to find something for himself, something for a friend and feel like he’s at home. quality made goods, made for the hardworking man.
Runners-up: 2. TJ Maxx. 3. Hibbett Sports.
best Musical instruMent store
zoMac. Lessons, accessories, instruments and much more fill the musical needs of customers. A staff of 15 experienced music teachers can also be found ready and willing to help.
Runner-up: 2.Square Deal.
best oFFice suPPly
officE DEPot. If you use it in an office, Office Depot has it — office supplies, electronics, furniture, print services and more.
Runners-up: 2. Five Star. 3. Walmart.
b est PaW n s ho P
E z Pawn. EZ Pawn says they are committed to working with you to get the quick cash you want with the service and respect you deserve.
Runners-up: 2. Cash America Pawn. 3. Bock Pawn.
best Place to buy a giFt
fE stiv E nE st. Since opening at its North Main Street location in 2018, the store offers quality, affordable seasonal and everyday home decor, women’s accessories and much.
Runners-up: 2. Broadway Market. 3. Walls.
b est s election o F Wine
usa l i Q uor. USA offers friendly service, knowledgeable employees and a great selection.
b rown’s s ho E f it. It offers a wide variety of shoes for men, women and children from to athletic, casual and dress styles. It also has shoes for those in industry, manufacturing as well as work boots and more.
Runners-up: 2. Famous Footwear. 3. SP Shoes at Broadway Market.
b est s ho PP ing c enter
s hawn EE c rossing. Hobby Lobby, Dunham’s, and more offer a wide variety of offerings in a familiar setting.
Runners-up: 2. Three Rivers Plaza. 3. River City Plaza.
best sMoke/vaPe shoP
918 va PE s. 918 Vapes offers knowledgeable staff, a variety of flavors.
Runners-up: 2. Captain Vapor. 3. Vapor Maven.
b est sP orting g oods s tore
Dunha M ’s. Shoppers can find a wide variety of apparel and sporting goods.
