On December 4, the OSU Extension office hosted a tour of the facilities and the virtual care van for Dr. Damona Doye, Associate Vice President of Extension and Engagement; Dr. Gina Peek, Associate Dean of Extension and Engagement; Dr. Deana Hildebrand, Professor of Nutritional Sciences; Nancy Johnson, Northeast District Director and Brenda Miller, Northeast District Family and Consumer Science Specialist.

Individuals were greeted by the OSU medical team and local people from the community, Mayor Daniel Tarkington; McIntosh County Cattlemen’s Assoc. president and producer Josh Emerson; Checotah Chamber of Commerce Vice President, Chris Brown and Office Manager Holly Lackey; Prestige’s busi-ness developer and building owner, Logan Sharpe and the local McIntosh County Democrat.

McIntosh County Ext. Ag/4-H Educator Pamela Ward stated, “Part of the collaboration between individuals to support the outreach efforts of the Extension office in McIntosh County is creating valuable opportunities for local citizens and surrounding communities to learn of the services provided. These outreach services are bridging gaps by providing resources and support that are not easily accessible in the area. However, by working together, the initiative hopes to help improve the quality of life for local residents, offering them access to services, education, and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. This effort is a significant step toward enhancing community engagement and strengthening connections within the region.”

Individuals were also treated to smoothies that were made by the use an exercise bike designed to make a smoothie while peddling.

The care van is available every Wednesday for locals to receive a free health office visit from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.