Grove Chamber of Commerce

Grove is rich in history and heritage. Pioneer, cowboy and Indian heritage has turned what was once wilderness into the fastest growing town in Oklahoma. From horse-drawn carriages to huge cabin cruisers on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, the area has definitely seen it all.

Most people are not aware of the opportunities and resources this once sleepy little town claims; however, these assets have not always been here. It has taken many years and much effort to develop the beautiful Grove area and the waters of the Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees that surround our wonderful town.

Cherokee Indian families settled in the area in the 1860s during the Trail of Tears; and French traders trapped wildlife along our riverbanks. Grove’s natural springs and groves of trees became identifying landmarks for the early travelers.

Grove has always been a welcoming place for residents and travelers. In fact, since 1817 it has been a well-known trading center with fertile valleys and clear streams. The blanketing woods that cover the hills of the countryside are sites where the many struggles and battles occurred that molded Grove into what it is today.

During the CivilWar, Federal troops referred to the Grove area as Round Grove in their official reports. Other names for the area included Monroe Grove, named for a Cherokee family that owned the land before the CivilWar; and Tablor’s Grove, named for Dr. Tablor, an early settler. The area was most frequently referred to as Grove Springs, since it was a small settlement near a freshwater spring that served as a resting place for travelers along the Texas Road.

Springs was dropped from the town name in 1888 when Captain Remsen applied for a post office, thus creating the name Grove.

In the early years the arrival of many new settlers prompted the community to organize. But even before the laying out of the town site and the creation of Grove there was an elected board of trustees, or town council, which governed the town and made the crucial decisions.

In 1940, the Pensacola Dam was completed with the Grand River being dammed up to form Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, bringing electricity to the Cherokee Nation in Indian Territory. In the process the town of Grove was almost completely surrounded by water.

The construction of Sailboat Bridge on the north and Honey Creek Bridge on the south connected Grove to surrounding towns and Grove began to boom.

Grove continued to thrive and, as the years passed, new businesses were attracted to the area. The Grove Hospital was founded in 1963; the Grove Public Library was established in 1964; and in 1968 Har-Ber Village, the largest antique museum in the United States, was created.

Echoes of these times past are reflected in many of the stores in the downtown area, the never-ending coves of the lake water, and in the faces of current-day residents - an enthusiasm for tomorrow’s future that makes Living the Grand Life in Grove so special!

Religion

A VARIED AND ACTIVE RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY

Eighteen denominations are represented within the City of Grove’s 29 churches. Local church leaders participate in the Ministerial Alliance and the Christian H.E.L.P. Center (Hope, Encouragement, Love, Provision), which are funded by donations and staffed by volunteers, providing assistance to residents of the community needing limited help with food, other domestic needs, and financial obligations.

With song and dance, each summer nearly 100 performers from the local church community come together to perform in the annual 4th of July celebration. The show highlights themes of God and country, ministering to both the patriotic and the spiritual faiths in the Grove area. In addition, children and adults come together for fellowship, fun and safe, family oriented activities at the annual Hallelujah party in the Grove Civic Center at the end of October. Appealing to children of all ages, summer church camp and vacation Bible school are offered by many churches.

Leadership Grove

A local educational program sponsored by the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Grove develops talents and broadens the perspectives of present and future community leaders by providing practical information concerning community issues.

Designed to create a better understanding of the assets and needs of our community, this issues-oriented program stimulates and develops community leaders by helping them develop a sense of community stewardship.

With informed and committed leadership, Grove has the necessary foundation to improve its economic climate, raise the standard of living, and create enthusiasm to meet future challenges. Graduates of the program then become involved in the community and politically active, making Grove a better place to live, work and play.

Education

Education Excellence

From first-rate physical facilities and learning tools to committed teachers and award-winning graduates, the Grove Public Schools System serves over 2,500 students. Committed to excellence in education, Grove Public Schools has five different educational sites within its facilities. Grove High School (grades 9-12), Middle School (grades 7-8), Upper Elementary (grades 4-6), Lower Elementary( grades1-3) and Grove Early Childhood Center (grades PK-K). We are the largest school district located in the Grand Lake area.

The state-of-the-art high school facility, with 108,000 square feet of classroom space constructed in 1999, offers computer and science labs, media center, study hall/commons area. In addition, students enjoy fully equipped band and vocal music studios, art and family consumer science classrooms, and an athletes’ workout center with a gymnasium. Grove High School also features an outstanding softball field located next to the High School facility.

Grove Public Schools recently has several new success stories to share about its facilities. With a recent bond issue being passed in 2010 we have had facility improvement at every site in the district within the last year. We are proud of our community for the outstanding support that is shown to every aspect of our school system. We have added (are in the process of adding) a total of 26 new classrooms, 2 cafeterias, 1 new computer lab, and 1 new library in the district. Our Early Childhood Center was recently completed in 2007 as well as our Upper Elementary.

A well-rounded educational program is provided at Grove schools, beginning at the youngest level. Grove students have been selected by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence as Academic Scholars. Programs include special programs for Gifted and Talented, Special Education, Dual Credit courses, Vocational courses, Advanced Placement and Indian Education Awards. We are proud of our numerous technology tools such as Smartboards in every classroom, mobile computer carts, iPads and computer labs at every site.

Grove Public Schools is classified in the 5A sports division. We offer numerous sports in the Grove Public Schools. Students have the privilege to choose form football, basketball, wrestling, softball, baseball, track, cross country, tennis, soccer, golf and cheerleading.

Grove has an outstanding educational foundation which was founded in 1997 by a group of private citizens, the Grove Educational Foundation for Excellence (GEFFE) works with and for the Grove Public Schools system to recognize, encourage and promote academic excellence. The GEFFE Foundation has awarded over $700,000 to help teachers fund new and innovative programs at every level. For more information on GEFFE, log onto their website at www.geffe.org.

Grove Public Schools currently employees approximately 310 personnel. For more information about Grove Public Schools log on to our website at www.ridgerunners.net.

Higher Education

Whether you want to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree at the NEO-Grove Higher Education Center, the possibilities are endless. Since 1919, Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College has provided higher education to Northeast Oklahoma through its main campus located in Miami, Oklahoma, just 24 miles northeast of Grove. With a desire to provide the same opportunities in Grove, NEO and the City of Grove combined resources to build a higher education center. NEO-Grove opened its doors at 1201 NEO Loop in the developing business park at 13^th and Shundi in November of 1998.

A state-of-the-art facility, NEO-Grove is located next to the Post Office and across from the Grove Public Library. Proud to offer an affordable option to higher education, the Grove campus offers the traditional, non-traditional and concurrent student academic course work toward a variety of degrees. Students have the option of completing an associate’s degree in General Studies, Business Administration, and Psychology/Sociology entirely at the Grove campus. The campus provides traditional face-to-face classrooms, distant education courses, high tech computer labs, and high-speed wireless Internet for computer and Internet coursework. With on-line classes, NEO-Grove provides students all the amenities of a quality education without the necessity of leaving home. With scholarships and financial aid, a college degree is possible!

The NEO Nursing Department proudly expanded to Grove in 2005 by offering the Fast-Track LPN-to-RN program. The 12 month program is designed for nurses to advance their career in an accelerated manner. The program has grown from one graduate the first year to 18 graduates in July 2010. Expanding again in 2009, the Fast Track program now includes the Paramedic-to-RN program with seven paramedics graduating from the program in July 2010.

Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College is dedicated to providing opportunities that promote excellence in learning, service, and leadership. It is our purpose to be aware and give support to the needs of the local community. In support of the local community, NEO-Grove students have given back by donating nearly $1,500 in goods to local charities. The students are actively involved in the community by volunteering at local organizations such as Grove Public Schools, Integris Grove Hospital, Grove Public Library, and the Community Crisis Center Safe House. In addressing their global responsibilities, the students at NEO-Grove are involved in global charities, raising nearly $600 for Heifer International® and Nothing But Nets.

NEO-Grove is available to host various functions for promoting community and economic development. Located just blocks from the INTEGRIS-Grove Hospital, the Grove campus offers professional and community enrichment courses for Grove and its surrounding communities. For additional information, please visit the NEO website at www.neo.edu, and click the Grove Campus link. You may also contact the Grove campus directly at (918) 787-5475.

Northeast Technology Center (NTC)

Northeast Technology Center (NTC) is located in Northeast Oklahoma with 4 campuses located in Afton, OK; Kansas, OK; Pryor, OK; and the newest campus in Claremore, OK. NTC is one of the oldest technology centers in the state, having been formed in 1969.

NTC’s district encompasses 3,500 square miles and serves all or parts of 8 counties.

NTC has helped over 400 agricultural and ranching families through the Agri-Business Management Program. Over 500 small businesses through the Business Development Program have been given assistance.

NTC has increased the number of evening classes from 40 to in 1973 to 245 each semester.

NTC offers skills training, technical education, and support services to individuals, businesses, and industry in NE Oklahoma.

85% of NTC students enrolled have completed their course of training while achieving a 95% positive placement either on the job, in higher ed, or the military. High School students attend NTC free of charge while earning college credits upon successful completion of their NTC course work.

NTC’s full-time student body has tripled since 1973 with over 5,000 adults attending one or more evening classes each year. Over 12,000 area employees benefited from NTC training programs last year alone. Last year NTC assisted over 200 businesses and industries.

Housing

Whether your future holds a permanent move into a new home or discovering the ideal location for a second home, the Grove area should not to be overlooked. Offering unmatched natural scenery and a relaxed hometown lifestyle with affordable housing, Grove enjoys four distinct seasons with temperate climate, low crime rate, and a smog-free environment.

In addition there are seven banking institutions in the Grove area, a regional medical center, as well as two grocers and over 30 restaurants. Hardware and lumber stores, antique and gift shops, sporting goods stores, shopping centers, four challenging golf courses, and several city and state parks are in the area.

From simple cabins to waterfront condominiums and custom-designed residences, beautiful homes of all sizes dot the shores of Grand Lake. Many are located in ideally secluded areas and formal gated communities on one of the only lakes in the U.S. where homeowners can own property to the water’s edge and place private docks as well, bringing the ultimate lake experience to their back doors. Dozens of real estate offices and developers in Grove and the Grand Lake area provide homebuyers opportunities to find a perfect match for their lifestyle. With homes averaging in the $80,000 to $200,000 range in the heart of Grove, beginning at $225,000 for water view or water access, and upward for waterfront properties, there is definitely something for everyone interested in Living the Grand Life.

Retirement

Grove is one of the nation’s five best retirement areas based on the cost of living, state and local taxes, climate, and typical household earnings.

With a median age of 45.2, and a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, it is not surprising that Grove and Delaware County are included among the fastest growing areas in the State of Oklahoma, becoming home to an increasing number of retirees looking to Live the Grand Life.

Excellent medical facilities, numerous churches of varying denominations, and extensive continuing educational opportunities enrich lifestyles here. Also adding to the Grand experience are beautiful natural scenery, a relaxed hometown lifestyle, and myriad activities including clubs and social opportunities. Grove seniors’ lives are enhanced by affordable housing and a safe, friendly and smog-free environment.

With activities happening throughout the year, there are plentiful recreational and entertainment attractions in and around Grove. Opportunities are everywhere for retirees to enjoy the wonderful community of residents.

Living the Grand Life in Grove, including numerous volunteer opportunities at INTEGRIS Grove General Hospital, SCORE, the Grove School Board, and the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce. In addition, there are golf courses, fishing, water sports, scenic beauty and nature, church and civic groups, museums and attractions, genealogy groups, fitness and health clubs, and civic clubs and lodges.

Quality Medical Care

INTEGRIS Grove Hospital has delivered the best in medical care services to the Grand Lake area since it opened in November 1963. In 2010, the hospital celebrated the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art facility located at 1001 E. 18th St.

INTEGRIS Grove Hospital has recruited a medical staff comprised of more than 40 physicians and physician extenders. From board-certified physicians to experienced and highly qualified nurse practitioners and physician assistants, the diverse medical staff encompasses numerous medical specialties including the following.

The hospital’s medical-surgical unit has 42 private patient rooms and nurse substations located conveniently to enable better response time by nursing staff. Each patient room is private, quite and spacious with many amenities including a flat-panel TV and a private and easily accessible restroom.

The Townsend Women and Children’s Center features ten beautiful rooms specifically designed to serve women. Five of these rooms are labor-delivery-recovery and postpartum rooms to accommodate mothers throughout the entire birthing process. The remaining five rooms can also be used for gynecological, post cesarean-section patients or antepartum patients. A spacious waiting room is available for the expecting family members, with a children’s Ronald McDonald playroom.

The emergency department features 12 rooms and a dedicated staff of board-certified emergency room physicians. Backed by a team of trained therapists, nurses and clinicians, the ER team stands ready to serve any emergency situation 24/7. When a need arises that requires transfer to a regional trauma center, INTEGRIS Grove has air ambulance support ready to assist.

The intensive care unit has six private rooms with the latest high-tech monitoring capabilities including a cardiac monitor viewable securely in real-time by any consulting physicians. Specialized beds rotate patients and play a variety of soothing sounds.

Located in the new hospital, the Grand Lake Regional Cardiology Catheterization Lab is designed to enhance the expert team’s abilities to perform life-saving procedures.

As advancements in technology have provided better avenues of care, the hospital has brought advancements to the community it serves, including state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.

INTEGRIS Grove has been recognized consecutively and nationally by winning the VHA Leadership Award for Clinical Excellence. The INTEGRIS Grove mission is to improve the health of the people and communities we serve. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, INTEGRIS Grove is easily accessible by major highways from any point in the Grand Lake area. In addition to northeast Oklahoma, the hospital’s service area includes parts of southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas.

Contact INTEGRIS Grove Hospital at 918-786-2243, or toll free at 877-428-9355 (ICU-WELL) for physician referrals, a medical directory, appointment information or a complete list of services. Please visit our website at www.integrisgrove.com.

Cowskin Area

On the arm of the Elk River stretching east to the Missouri border, the Cowskin area is situated among the foothills of the Ozarks and offers lakefront and lake view homes in addition to residential living in a countryside setting.

Many resorts, cottages, camping facilities, and public access areas are available in the Cowskin area, in addition to fullservice marinas, and boat sales and maintenance, making it a hot spot for fishing and boating.

History enthusiasts enjoy the historic Cowskin area’s Cayuga Mission Church; and nature lovers enjoy Sycamore Creek, north of the Cowskin area on State Highway 10, which meanders through a scenic valley before it joins Grand Lake.

Other entertainment possibilities in the area include an evening of fun at J.R. Spanky’s Bar & Grill and 24/7 at the Grand Lake,Wyandotte and Cherokee Casinos.

Monkey Island

A peninsula of land extending south from the northern shores of Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, Monkey Island is eight miles southwest of Grove and can be reached by air (Grand Lake Regional Airport), land (State Highway 125), and water (Grand Lake).

A distinctive community offering a great mix of real estate, entertainment, restaurants, unique shops and resort facilities, Monkey Island features luxurious single-family homes, high-rise condominiums, and resorts where the median value of homes is estimated at $150,000. Due to new housing developments currently under construction, the island is fast becoming a large growth area.

More of the lake’s great dining can be found on Monkey Island, featuring unique atmospheres and diversified menus. Unique gifts, furniture, antiques, art and clothing not often found in an average mall are a few of the reasons shoppers love the island.

Darryl Starbird’s National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame is one of Monkey Island’s most unique attractions. It features over 50 custom-built exotic and classic cars in a 40,000-square-foot facility.

Government

The City of Grove, incorporated in 1888, covers 11 square miles and is governed by a council-manager form of government. Five city council members are elected, four from wards and one at-large. Responsible for management and operation of all facets of city government, the City Manager is hired by the City Council.

A range of services is provided by the city, including comprehensive land use planning and zoning, construction and maintenance of streets, traffic engineering, code enforcement, library services, and police, fire and ambulance service. In addition, a regional water system, gas system, and sewer system is owned and operated by the city.

The Grove Community Center at 104 West 3rd Street is home to City Hall where the following can be contacted by writing P.O. Box 451268, Grove, OK 74345, unless otherwise noted, or by telephone as noted.

Delaware County is governed by a three-person elected commission. 327 South 5th Street in Jay (13 miles south of Grove) is the site of the Delaware County Courthouse. Contact the following officials by mail at the Delaware County Courthouse, Jay, OK 74346, or by telephone as noted.

About Grove

History