Muskogee was voted the Best Host City by the racers who participated in the Hemmings Vintage Car Rally held on June 26 at the Civic Center, and on Friday, Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce officials were presented with a check for $5,000. Muskogee was competing against four other cities for the prize.

The Car Rally was headquartered in Rogers, Ark., and also had lunch stops in Joplin, Mo., Eureka Springs, Ark., Claremore and Van Buren, Ark.

On the final day of the rally, the racers voted on the city that provided the best lunch stop based on set criteria. Muskogee competed for best theme having local support and sponsorship, best media involvement, best accommodations and lunch, best spectator participation and the overall “wow” factor. Race officials said the voting was close with all five cities offering something unique to the racers. Joplin had the largest spectator participation with nearly 3,000 turning out to welcome the racers. Eureka Springs and Van Buren emphasized their history with volunteers dressed in period costumes.

But it was the “wow” factor that won Muskogee votes. The Civic Center was decorated with dozens of inflatable snowmen provided by Airblown World collector Jason Jones. Racers crossed the “finish line” in front of the Civic Center in a shower of “snowballs.” It all fit Muskogee’s theme as “The Coolest Place to Be.”

Covered parking and a great lunch catered by Charlie’s Chicken were also cited as reasons that Muskogee received the winning tally of votes. Racers appreciated the turnout of downtown workers dressed in Hawaiian shirts and cool shades. A variety of area groups worked together as a team to sell lunch, watermelon, snow cones and provide activities to make the event a success.

“It’s amazing, the things we can do with just a little money, some creativity and lots of teamwork,” said Tourism Director Treasure Ruttman. “And we appreciate the community’s support by coming to the Civic Center and helping us welcome the racers. We will earmark the money to develop entrance signage to Muskogee so the whole community can enjoy the winnings.”