2025
IN THIS ISSUE
P.14
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 10 BEST OF OH18 WINNERS 14
P.18
GIFTS FROM THE HEART 18 D AY & N I G H T D AT E I D E A S 24 SMALL TOWN SWEETHEARTS 36
P. 24
RECIPE 40
W H AT I S O H 1 8 ?
P.36
Oh18 is all about the 73018 and surrounding areas. We love to promote living local by showing off our great shops, giving insight into local eats and highlighting live music and events. Check out all the Oh18 area has to offer and live local, friends! P.40
2025
HAPPY NEW YEAR! It's hard to believe 2025 has come to an end and 2026 is in full swing. The last year seemed to have flown by when we blinked. Our town has seen so much growth in the last few years, we feel like sometimes we have to sprint to keep up and that's a good thing! Without such positive movement, we would never be where we are today. With this, of course, there are some that have to close their doors, but we know that with each door closed, a few more open. We love every business that comes through our town and want to support them however we can, that's why we are here! And although we have to see some close, we wish them the absolute best moving forward because we know owning a business isn't for the weak and they worked hard to make every day count. Each and every organizations contributes to the success and forward movement of our town. So whether you have had a business, do have one now or plan to have one in the future - we see you, we support you and we wish you all the best as you move forward this year!
Kristen McGregor
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Kristen McGregor COPY EDITOR Kristyn Allbritton PHOTOGRAPHY Kristyn Allbritton DESIGN & LAYOUT Kristen McGregor
ON THE COVER Jay's Jewelry Interurban The Savoy 1902 Adventurescape The Bookstore on the Corner Thank you to our amazing volunteer models for being willing and able!
Kristen McGregor Co-Owner, Oh18
Livin' Local Did you make it to this year's annual Christmas Parade? Our church had some live music as a float in the parade and it was so much fun. We had Christmas music, kids waving, candy being handed out and it was a great time. There were a ton of people celebrating this year!
ADVERTISING Interested in placing an ad in the next issue of Oh18 Magazine? Please contact us at oh18.livelocal@gmail.com or call us for more information at 405.219.4397.
©Copyright 2025 Oh18 Publishing and Oh18 Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced without prior written consent of Publisher. Oh18 Magazine is published bimonthly and distributed in Chickasha.
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 7
8 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 9
26
JAN/FEB
C A L E N DA R O F E V E N T S
1/2 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/17 Rocky Kanaga* Shakespeare Wine Company
2/6 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/3 Kim Hunter* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/17 - 1/18 HOYRA Rodeo Grady County Fairgrounds
2/7 USAO Basketball 2 & 4pm Drover Fieldhouse
1/3 - 1/4 Central 4d Barrel Race Grady County Fairgrounds
1/18 Galentine's Event Tammie's Bling Boutique
2/7 OK Round Up Club Banquet Grady County Fairgrounds
1/8 USAO Basketball 6 & 8pm Drover Fieldhouse
1/19 USAO Basketball 6 & 8pm Drover Fieldhouse
2/7 OK Trade Days Grady County Fairgrounds
1/9 CV Tech Robotics Competition Grady County Fairgrounds
1/23 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
2/7 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/9 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/24 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
2/10 - 2/14 SW District Livestock Show Grady County Fairgrounds
1/10 Shopping at The Palace Sycamore Salvage
1/29 USAO Basketball 6 & 8pm Drover Fieldhouse
2/12 Mojo & The Bayou Gypsies USAO Ballroom
1/10 Justin Duty* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/30 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
2/13 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/10 USAO Basketball 2 & 4pm Drover Fieldhouse
1/30 Ducks Unlimited Banquet Grady County Fairgrounds
2/14 Shopping at The Palace Sycamore Salvage
1/11 Extreme Dwarfinators Grady County Fairgrounds
1/31 USAO Basketball 6 & 8pm Drover Fieldhouse
2/14 ES Walker* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/15 USAO Basketball 6 & 8pm Drover Fieldhouse
1/31 Dani Carson* Shakespeare Wine Company
2/14 USAO Basketball 2 & 4pm Drover Fieldhouse
1/16 Taylor Atkins* Shakespeare Wine Company
1/31 Toy Show Grady County Fairgrounds
2/18 SkillsUSA SW District Contest Grady County Fairgrounds
1/17 The Oklahoma Outlaws* Eagles Lodge
2/5 USAO Basketball 6 & 8pm Drover Fieldhouse
2/20
1/1 - 2/26 Pool Hall Tournaments Old Towne Billiards Every Thursday & Sunday
10 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
1/2 - 2/27 Singo Jungle Ice Fun Zone Every Friday
1/5 - 2/26 Tai Chi: Better Balance Chickasha Public Library Every Monday & Thursday
Letters
LOCAL
with Sierra Leatherwood, Tans Unlimited Frank Ryan* Shakespeare Wine Company 2/21 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company 2/21 Grady County OHCE Gardening 101 Workshop Grady County Fairgrounds 2/22 USAO Softball 2 & 4pm Bill Smith Ballpark 2/23 - 2/27 Grady County Jr. Livestock Show Grady County Fairgrounds 2/27 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company 2/28 Live Music* Shakespeare Wine Company
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK OR VISIT OH18MAGAZINE.COM/EVENTS FOR UP-TO-DATE EVENTS
*Live Music 1/5 - 2/23 Monday Mahjong The Block Shop Every Monday
I am born & raised right here in Chickasha graduating from CHS in 2007. My husband Josh & I are raising our 2 kids & 4 doggies in our 78 year old ranch home in the middle of town that we have been renovating for the last 4 years. The projects are endless! Just like within our community rebuilding and growing is a huge passion for us. We have loved witnessing every second of growth Chickasha has seen the last several years. From a downtown area that was dying, full of empty run down buildings, zero night life & very little shopping or entertainment to now. We used to take our date nights & eating out, & shopping to OKC & Norman. Now you can always find plenty of entertainment , places to visit, restaurants to eat in & businesses to shop right here in Chickasha! We love visiting with people and telling them everything that Chickasha has to offer. When people ask us for a restaurant recommendation we always respond with "well what kind of food are you in the mood for??"! What an incredible problem to have when there are so many options that you have to narrow down recommendations! Downtown isn't the only area that is thriving either! We have ground being broke & new businesses being brought in as I type! Our schools, a new industrial Park, housing developments, and so much more are seeing growth that no one thought was even possible 10 years ago in Chickasha! I'm so proud of our city leaders who not only recognized that if you are not growing you are dying, but chose to jump in feet first and find ways to revitalize our little town. These are businesses and growth that will not only benefit our generation but our children's generation and their children's generation. Truly our town is set up for success for another 134 years and beyond! We are so excited for what the future holds for our town & to be a part of the growth! We are so proud to be Chickasha Fightin' Chicks!
- Sierra ood Leatherw
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 11
12 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 13
2025
2025
annual awards The votes have been submitted and now it's finally time to award the Best of Oh18! Nominated and voted on by YOU! Congratulations to all of this year's winners
14 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
Winners The Local Legend Award For a person, place, or event that’s become part of the fabric of Chickasha.
Festival of Light
The Flavor Fix Award For the food or drink spot locals can’t live without.
Interurban of Chickasha
The Trailblazer Award For a business or entrepreneur truly raising the bar.
Buff Boys Detailing
The Vibe Creator Award For the people and places that make Chickasha a desirable destination.
Leg Lamp
The Heart of the Community Award For those making a real difference.
YMCA Chickasha
CONGRATULATIONS WINNERS! JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 15
16 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
Loving Learning: p Soa ing Mak
Gui ta Bas r ics
hy: rap g o t Pho ape dsc n a L
Take a night class with your special one! Sign ge Langua
CPR Uku lele Basi cs
Your Purpose. Your Path. Our Priority.
Dozens more classes at www.cvtech.edu Canadian Valley Technology Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender expression or identity, national origin, religion, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, age, or genetic information in its programs, services, activities and employment. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 17 Title IX Coordinator: brent.casey@cvtech.edu; 504 Coordinators: 504@cvtech.edu; 405-262-2629, 6505 E Hwy 66, El Reno, OK 73036.
Gifts from the
n d HEART nd m nmde! me! You a nd There’s something special about Valentine’s season in a small town, something that makes every thoughtful gesture feel a little sweeter and every gift a little more meaningful. Here, it isn’t about grand displays or extravagant surprises. It’s about choosing something with intention… something that says I saw this and thought of you. Chickasha is full of places where you can find those heartfelt treasures: handcrafted pieces, locally curated goodies, sentimental keepsakes and everyday luxuries that feel extraordinary because they come from someone who knows you best. Whether it’s jewelry that sparkles, a book that speaks to the soul, a cozy treat to brighten a winter day or a personalized item made just for them, our local shops offer gifts that carry real heart behind them. This season, let love lead you through town to the businesses that help you say “I care about you” in the most thoughtful way. It’s not just about the gift itself, but the story, the connection and the hands that crafted it right here at home.
18 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
You and me! You and me d me! You and me! You an me! You and me! You and m and me! You and me! You d me! You and me! You an Okie Mountain Tr ading Co. 327 W Chickasha Ave Ste 8 okiemountaintra dingco.com
Perrefitte Home & Gifts 117 S 4th St perrefittehome. com
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 19
Crafty Queen 102 East Chickasha Avenue facebook.com/craftyyqueenok
P S: I loyvoeu! Life in Bloom 116 S 4th St lifeinbloomflorals.com
!
Rock Island Can dy Co 115 S 4th St rockislandcandy .com
Co andy C d n Isla Rock th St m 115 S 4 dcandy.co n la rockis
Ross Seed Company 416 W Choctaw Ave rossseed.com Ross See d Comp any 416 W C hoctaw A ve rossseed .com
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 21
22 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 23
DAY & NIGHT
DATE IDEAS There’s something special about slowing down and sharing moments with the people you care about—whether that’s your significant other, your closest friends or the crew you haven’t laughed with in far too long. Chickasha is full of cozy corners, lively hangouts and unexpected adventures perfect for crafting a meaningful day or night out.
So grab your people, circle the date on your calendar, and rediscover the joy of being together— right here in the heart of Chickasha. 24 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 25
26 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
GIRLS' NIGHT The Bookstore on the Corner
There’s nothing quite like a girls’ day that starts with stepping into a warm, book-filled haven. The Bookstore on the Corner offers the perfect backdrop for slow wandering, recommendations between friends and the thrill of discovering your next great read. Cozy nooks invite you to settle in for unhurried conversation, while the shelves spark inspiration at every turn. It’s a charming, no-rush escape where friendships can breathe and stories are shared.
La Fiesta
After diving into new reads and catching up between the shelves, the perfect follow-up to a girls’ outing is gathering around a table at La Fiesta. The moment you walk in, the buzz of conversation, the scent of sizzling fajitas and the promise of endless chips and queso set the tone for an evening full of laughter. It’s the kind of place where stories get louder, queso bowls empty faster than you’d expect and the comfort of good friends feels just as satisfying as the meal itself.
Fun Add On!
Every first Sunday of the Month, Altrusa International hosts a Taciturn Silent Book Club starting at 4pm. The event takes place at Shakespeare Wine Co. This is a great time to read those new books you get! JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 27
GUYS' NIGHT Interurban of Chickasha
Sometimes the best nights are the simple ones, cold beers, good food and even better company. Interurban of Chickasha gives guys a laid-back spot to unwind after a long week, watch a game and dig into generous plates filled with favorites. Whether it’s a weekly hangout or an impromptu gathering, Interurban offers the kind of atmosphere where the stress of the day fades into the background. It’s the kind of place that turns a regular night out into a tradition.
Olde Towne Billiards & Beer
After grabbing a cold beer and a hearty meal at Interurban, the night naturally carries over to Olde Towne Billiards, a local favorite where the lights are low, the tables are open and the energy is just right. It’s the perfect place to settle into rhythm with the crew, chalking cues, calling shots and letting the friendly competition unfold. Between the crack of the break and the easy conversation that fills the room, it’s a space made for unwinding.
Fun Add On!
Don't feel like heading out? Grab some home-grown beef at Wheeler Farms Meat & Market and some dip or crockpot mix for an easy and simple way to hang out at home and watch the game with the guys. 28 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 29
30 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
DOUBLE DATE AdventureScape
For couples looking for something fun and just a little bit challenging, AdventureScape is the perfect doubledate destination. These escape rooms are packed with puzzles, surprises and just enough pressure to bring out everyone’s competitive side. It’s a chance to work together, cheer each other on and share those “we almost had it!” moments that fuel inside jokes for weeks. If you’re looking to shake up your date routine and spark a shared sense of adventure, this is the place.
Chicken Express
Before the puzzle-solving and adrenaline kick in at AdventureScape, a laid-back dinner at Chicken Express sets the perfect tone for a fun night out. It’s an easy, no-stress stop where everyone can grab something they love without breaking the bank, crispy chicken, hot fish meals, rolls, sides and sweet tea big enough to share. Couples can laugh and swap stories to ease into the evening over comfort-food favorites that hit the spot every time.
Fun Add On!
If you aren't into the escape rooms, a great place to spend some time would be The Block Shop! They offer game nights, lego building and you can purchase sets or games to do at home! JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 31
DATE NIGHT Jay's Jewelry
Take a stroll through Chickasha’s charming downtown, soaking in the glow of streetlights and window displays. Take this moment to surprise her with a beautifully wrapped gift from Jay’s Jewelry. The moment will be effortless and romantic, a sweet reminder that love doesn’t need a grand stage to shine. Whether it’s a ring, necklace or something equally beautiful the gesture adds a touch of sparkle to an already memorable date night.
The Savoy 1902
Before heading home for a cozy evening together, stop at The Savoy 1902 to bring a warmth to the night. This beautifully remodeled, locally owned restaurant blends old Chickasha charm with a fresh, inviting atmosphere that feels perfect for an intimate meal. Their barbecue is rich, smoky, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re sharing brisket, sampling sides or lingering over dessert, The Savoy 1902 sets the stage for a heartfelt, meaningful date night.
Fun Add On!
Head over to the Chickasha Community Theater to catch a great show by local actors once you're done eating. They conveniently sell tickets at Jay's Jewelry! 32 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 33
34 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 35
SMALL TOWN SWEETHEARTS Generations of Comfort: How DeHart Air Conditioning Became a Chickasha Institution
aligning the company with the technological needs of Chickasha households and businesses.
When it comes to local businesses that have stood the test of time, few shine as brightly as DeHart Air Conditioning. Founded in 1920 by Ed DeHart, the company began as a modest sheetmetal shop, known as DeHart Sheet Metal Work, producing ventilation products, heating furnaces, and other metalwork goods.
In 1965, the team built a new facility on South 4th Street in Chickasha, which still stands today as the company’s hub.
But it was Ed’s vision and willingness to innovate that laid the foundation for the hometown legacy we know today. Early on, the shop became the first automated sheet-metal fabrication business in the Southwest, a major achievement that shows how forward-thinking the DeHart family has always been. From Metal Shop to Modern Comfort Experts In the years that followed, the business evolved to meet the needs of a changing world. By the late 1930s, as air conditioning emerged as a household necessity, Ed DeHart went back to school to learn the new trade to combine heating and cooling with his original metalwork expertise. His son, Elmer DeHart, joined the company in 1949, prompting a rebranding to DeHart Air Conditioning and Electronics. The shift from sheet metal to HVAC was transformative,
36 \\ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026
Fourth Generation at the Helm — Bigger, Broader, Better The legacy continued when Elmer’s son, Mark DeHart, joined the business after college. Under his leadership, DeHart expanded into commercial HVAC, geothermal systems and set the standard for high-quality craftsmanship while embracing new technology and rising comfort demand. Today the fourth generation, Mark’s sons Seth and John DeHart, leads the company with the same heart, craftsmanship, and innovation that defined their predecessors. Guided by their mission to deliver superior comfort and quality while empowering their team with trust and excellence, the brothers are driving the company into its next century of service. From their original Chickasha location to an additional branch in Duncan, DeHart now serves a broad region. With a team of 47 talented employees, many of whom trained at the local vocational school, they bring unmatched expertise to everything from residential HVAC to complex commercial and geothermal systems.
Their leadership reflects DeHart’s longstanding vision: to continue a legacy of excellence by integrating advanced technology with personalized service, ensuring comfort and reliability for generations to come. The Dehart Way • A foundation of core values Every decision from customer service to job site craftsmanship is rooted in DeHart’s core values: • Quality, unity, integrity, customer satisfaction and community engagement These values are not slogans; they guide how the team works, treats customers, and serves the community daily. • Deep local roots Across four generations, the DeHart family has grown with Chickasha. Their business, employees, and customers form a tight-knit community that reflects true hometown pride. • Adaptability and growth What began as a sheet-metal shop has transformed into a full-service HVAC provider capable of handling new construction, geothermal, indoor air quality, commercial projects, and advanced technology integrations.
Known for reliability, quick response, and treating neighbors like family not just customers, DeHart continues to raise the standard of what service looks like in a community-focused business. Why We Celebrate DeHart Air Conditioning In a world where businesses come and go, DeHart remains a steady presence, a symbol of what hometown dedication, hard work, and family values can build. For more than 105 years, they’ve kept Chickasha comfortable through heat, cold, and everything in between. If you’ve ever cranked up the AC on a summer night or felt the warm glow of a furnace in winter, chances are DeHart played a role. In doing so, they’ve become part of the heartbeat of Chickasha, a quiet but essential thread in the fabric of this community. And no matter how much the world changes, one thing stays constant: In Chickasha, comfort has a familiar name. Whats Next Starting January 2026, we’re excited to serve Chickasha and the surrounding communities in a new way with DeHart Plumbing Solutions. Same values. Same people. More ways to take care of you.
• Commitment to people and service
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 37
Credit: recipesbyalicia.com
Jalapeño Popper Twists your next game day hit
Preparation
Ingredients
Step 1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• 1 sheet Puff Pastry (thawed)
Step 2 In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, shredded Sharp Cheddar, sliced jalapeños and garlic powder until smooth.
• 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (or Monterrey Jack)
Step 3 Roll out your thawed puff pastry to about 1/4 inch thick, then cut into strips about 2 inches wide. Step 4 Spoon a generous amount of the cheesy filling onto one half of each strip, fold over and twist each strip. Step 5 Place twisted bites on your baking sheet and brush the tops with egg wash. Step 6 Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Total Time 50 mins
JULY-AUGUST 2024 40 \\ MAY-JUNE 2024
• 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup Sliced Jalapeños (fresh or pickled) • 1 tsp Garlic • 1 large Egg Tip Serve with ranch, sriracha mayo or honey mustard
P E T of the M O N T H
Violet Breed Labradoodle Color Dark brown with White Spot Best Trick Catches Treats and Toys Favorite Treat Strawberries and Chicken Feet Lovable Quirk Watching TV for Animals to Bark at Owner Austin and Ereka Kile If you'd like to submit your pet for pet of the month, send a photo and info to oh18.livelocal@gmail.com.
P E T of the M O N T H
Kopper Breed Blue Tick Hound/Aussie Mix Color White/Black/Brown Best Trick Climbing the Stairs of the Pool Favorite Treat Anything from Grandma Lovable Quirk Hound Bark, Swimming in the Lake, Protecting the Kids Owner Levi & Holly Murphy, Ahbree, Paisley and Corbin If you'd like to submit your pet for pet of the month, send a photo and info to oh18.livelocal@gmail.com. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 // 41
NEW!
SILVERSNEAKERS CLASSES ®
Join us on Mondays through Thursdays for our new SilverSneakers classes that focus on balance, cardio, strength, and flexibility for our active older adult community. ®
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Anna Cain Harris SilverSneakers Classic SilverSneakers Circuit
A GUIDE FOR LIVING LOCAL
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2026