Live acoustic guitar music filled the warm air in front of the Muskogee Civic Center at the first Lemonade Promenade on Wednesday.

People who stopped by for a tall glass of cold lemonade said they came because they heard about it from friends, read about it in the paper, or wandered over from the nearby Farmers’ Market.

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Colleen and Nic Darley, who were there with their little girl Aislinn, said they saw the lemonade stand and seating while at the Farmer’s Market. Aislinn told her mom and dad she was thirsty.

Colleen said they have a strong interest in Muskogee events.

“Anything local we try to support it,” she said. I think if you keep it in the community, it’s going to help your community grow.”

Colleen said the family planned to enjoy some of the music and then go back to the Farmer’s Market to get some produce.

“I think it’s great,” she said. “I can take my kids to it. It’s a good family atmosphere.”

As Ken Yates played his guitar and sang, Civic Center Manager Cassandra Gaines and Toya Casey filled orders for lemonade or other cold beverages for customers.

Gaines said the Lemonade Promenade helps bring the community together.

“It draws people downtown,” she said. “They can relax and let their mind run free for an hour. We’re also showcasing musical artists from the Muskogee region.”

Lu Murphy relaxed at one of the tables with her 3-year-old daughter Indigo and her friend Elizabeth Escovar.

“Liz told me about it,” she said. “It’s a chance just to get out of the house on a nice warm day. I like the music, and it’s relaxing. I love live music. I try to do anything that’s community oriented, because I want to be a part.”

Escovar said the lemonade stand and park-like atmosphere was a benefit for everyone.

“They’re raising money for the community,” she said. “It creates a good atmosphere for the community to come together.”

Saundra Vincent invited her 10-year-old granddaughter Tonie Weese to come down from Tulsa and enjoy a day in Muskogee and a visit to the Lemonade Promenade.

“We read about it in the newspaper and my husband sent me an e-mail from work,” she said. “I like the music and meeting people in the community.

Vincent said the weekly event is a success all around.

“I think it’s neat that the city offers it,” she said. “It offers exposure to different kinds of music, and the social aspect of it.”



Reach Keith Purtell at 684-2925 or kpurtell@muskogeephoenix.com.