Community requests memorial trail, monument and recognition for local leader Mary Factory; council offers support

McAlester — Community members asked the council to help preserve local history and install a trail and monument near Louverture stadium to honor neighborhood leaders, including 107‑year‑old Mary Factory.

Mr. Ellis (introduced by the mayor) updated the council on research from the Oklahoma Historical Preservation Office and the National Park Service and described community conversations with local groups and libraries. He said the proposal aims to create a visible tribute that would draw visitors, citing an upcoming recognition of Mary Factory by a sorority with chapters across 50 states. "As a leader of our community. Proud of that lady. 107 years old," Ellis said.

Robert Factor, who identified himself and said his mother worked at Lockheed and helped on Apollo-era work, asked the city to consider plaques, murals or a low‑cost conversion of existing brick‑and‑mortar and a basketball court into interpretive space. He said preserving history "so our children can do the same" was the motivation for the request.

City staff and the mayor expressed support for the idea and suggested staff would follow up; presenters proposed cost‑saving approaches using existing site elements rather than large new construction. The council did not take formal action but indicated willingness to consider the project and directed staff to continue the dialogue with the presenters.

Clarifying details: presenters recommended using existing brickwork and the on‑site basketball court and developing a digital flipbook to promote the honoree. Presenters said fundraising and in‑kind support (for example, donating bleachers) were potential financing approaches.

Next steps: staff to work with community leaders on options and report back with costs or recommended actions for council consideration.