Locally Styled

CHAMPIONS ON AND OFF THE FIELD

3.23 GPA

USAO ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

IN THIS ISSUE

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS 10 C H R I S T M A S I N J U LY 14

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WHERE LUXURY MEETS LEGACY 18 L O C A L LY S T Y L E D 22 FEELIN' THE VIBE IN 25 38 SMALL TOWN STORIES 46

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RECIPE 48

W H AT I S O H 1 8 ?

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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!

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HELLO FRIENDS So far summer has been busy with sports, work, photo shoots and all the things (except house cleaning). Am I right?! You won't hear me complaining, because it's an exciting time to be in Chickasha!

Speaking of photo shoots, it's safe to say prepping this issue was a blast is an understatement. Model shoots are my fav because shopping is one of my favorite past times. Well so are the food issues because I do enjoy eating, but back to what I was saying. These models killed it and the fits are fire.

Shout out to all the shops for carrying such diverse styles and allowing us to highlight them. Seriously these store owners make my job, argumentatively, the best ever. Make sure you are following all of them on social and interacting because it truly does help our local businesses.

This issue is your "reason" to go shopping, you're welcome!

Call a friend and make plans to get dressed up. It's time to soak in those special moments before summer is over.

Spending time with those you care about and looking great are good for the soul.

Let's finish the summer strong with shopping, live music, block parties, celebrating our country and enjoying days worth of the Grady County Fair! Get all the insider info here!

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Kristen McGregor COPY EDITOR Kristyn Allbritton PHOTOGRAPHY Kristyn Allbritton DESIGN & LAYOUT Kristen McGregor

Happy shopping, friends.

Kristyn Allbritton

ON THE COVER 5th Street Unique Boutique J Danielle

Kristyn Allbritton Co-Owner, Oh18

Livin' Local Our second home as been Chickasha's Sports Complex.

From practices to games, these boys have been living their best lives. I am super thankful we have such a nice facility to offer athletes and we are loving CPS teachers who swing by to cheer on their students!

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.

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JOIN IN JULY & SAVE BIG!

Receive exclusive discounts on after-school care & other programs Plus, Y members have FREE admission to the Shannon Springs Public Pool this summer — including the 4th of July celebration!

Join today at ymcaokc.org/join

JULY-AUGUST 2025 // 9

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JULY/AUGUST C A L E N DA R O F E V E N T S

7/1 4H Contest Days Grady County Fairgrounds 7/2 4th of July Retreat Wagon Wheel Ranch Retreat 7/4 Festival of Freedom Shannon Springs Park 7/4-7/6 Sooner State Morgan Horse Show Grady County Fairgrounds 7/5 Toby Wayne* Shakespeare Wine Company 7/5 Dime Store Riot* Legends Pubhouse & Venue 7/6 Silent Book Club Shakespeare Wine Company 7/10-7/12 State 4H Horse Show Grady County Fairgrounds 7/10-7/13 Little Shop of Horrors Chickasha Community Theatre 7/11 Cody Lane* Shakespeare Wine Company 7/11 Hunter Thomas* The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 7/12 Kim Hunter* Shakespeare Wine Company

7/2 - 8/27 Trivia Night The Outpost Every Wednesday 10 \\ JULY-AUGUST 2025

7/12 Live Music* The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 7/12 Badfinger* Legends Pubhouse & Venue 7/14-7/15 Auditions: The Elephant Man Chickasha Community Theatre 7/15 Sip & Paint The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 7/18 ES Walker* Shakespeare Wine Company 7/19 Jeff Butler* Shakespeare Wine Company 7/19 Rocky Kanaga* The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 7/19 Ninnekah Founders Day Dell Street, Ninnekah 7/25 Two Mushroom* Shakespeare Wine Company 7/25 Born in November* The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 7/25-7/26 Legends Tribute Festival 2025* Legends Pubhouse & Venue 7/25-7/27 Barrel Bash Grady County Fairgrounds

7/4-8/29 Singo Jungle Ice Fun Zone Every Friday

7/26 Anthony Spencer* Shakespeare Wine Company 7/26 Community Event The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 8/1 Monster Truck Show Grady County Fairgrounds 8/2 Adara Kay Legends Pubhouse & Venue 8/8 Kalo* The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 8/9 Jeff Butler* Shakespeare Wine Company 8/14 Sip & Paint The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 8/15 Nicki Jackson* Shakespeare Wine Company 8/15 Maddox Ross & The Waterloo Road Band* Legends Pubhouse & Venue 8/15 Exile Legends Pubhouse & Venue 8/15 Hunter Thomas* The Stage | Brandi's & Flower Shop 8/16 Dani Carson* Shakespeare Wine Company 8/16 Overtime:30 Band* Eagles Lodge

8/17 Trent Smith-Tribute to Young Elvis* Legends Pubhouse & Venue

Charm

CHICKASHA with Nick Alexander

8/21-8/23 Grady County Free Fair Grady County Fairgrounds 8/22 Justin Duty* Shakespeare Wine Company 8/22 Shawna Russell & The Ranch Hands* Legends Pubhouse & Venue 8/23 Dime Store Riot Legends Pubhouse & Venue 8/23 Area Author Book Signing Chickasha Area Arts Council 8/23 Frank Ryan* Shakespeare Wine Company 8/24 JACKL* Legends Pubhouse & Venue 8/29 Tim Brauer* Shakespeare Wine Company

What's your favorite place in town?

I would have to say the downtown area of Chickasha.

What makes this place your favorite spot in town?

As a small business owner myself, the downtown district is full of thriving small businesses.

What was your first impression when you visited?

I’ve been a Chickasha resident for most of my life. I moved away for a short period, but when I returned a few years later, I was amazed by how much the downtown area had transformed. What was once a forgotten part of town has been revitalized and filled with strong, passionate businesses. It’s a step in the right direction, a place where people are making their dreams come true by opening businesses, and where families can enjoy an afternoon of eating and shopping.

It's also exciting to see that our downtown now attracts visitors from outside the area, to see what Chickasha has to offer.

What unique features or qualities does this place have that made it stand out to you?

Whether you’re looking for food, shopping, or something in between, downtown Chickasha offers a wide variety of options. There should be something to appeal to everyone’s interest.

What would you recommend others try or do when they visit?

I’d recommend not limiting yourself to just the downtown area. Chickasha as a whole has a lot to offer. From great food to unique shops, and even parks there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK OR VISIT OH18MAGAZINE.COM/EVENTS FOR UP-TO-DATE EVENTS

*Live Music JULY-AUGUST 2025 // 11

EVERY BODY WELCOME BEEKEEPING | CYBERSECURITY & A.I. | CMA & CNA | GUITAR | | WIND ENERGY TECHNICIAN | YOGA | SO MANY MORE!

Training & classes your future self will appreciate!

cvtech.edu

July ng in Comi

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Canadian Valley Technology Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Title IX Coordinator: ridgewayt@cvtech.edu; 504 Coordinators, 504@cvtech.edu, 405-262-2629, 6505 E Hwy 66, El Reno, OK 73036

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Christminas

CoolDown Block Party

Cycle Santa rs Parade oafndSlebtaars &H 14 \ \ JULY-AUGUST 2025

Fireworks Spectacular

Block Party

In Chickasha, we don’t just save Christmas magic for December— we bring it back full of sparkle for Christmas in July! Known affectionately as Christmastown, our city transforms into a midsummer wonderland where freedom and festivity collide. With fireworks, parades, family fun and a visit from Cycle Santa, there’s no place like home for the holidays—no matter the season.

On July 4, head to Shannon Springs Park for the all-day Festival of Freedom. The pool opens at 10am, followed by classic summer fun including games, a costume contest and free watermelon from 4–6pm. You won’t want to miss the Parade of Stars & Handlebars at 6pm, where bikes, scooters, ATVs and golf carts roll through the park in full patriotic flair—Cycle Santa included! Enjoy live music at the amphitheater with food trucks and end the night with the firework show!

Don't forget to mark your calendars for the CoolDown Block Party on July 26 at the 100 block of Chickasha Avenue. From 6–9pm, the street will fill with water slides, a foam party, free snow cones for kids and the pure joy of summer with a holiday twist. As the sun sets, gather for a movie by the leg lamp. This final Christmas in July event captures the true spirit of Christmastown: fun, community and a little bit of magic.

So whether you're celebrating our nation's freedom or cooling off with some holiday cheer, Chickasha has something special for everyone this July. Bring your friends and let’s make this a summer to remember!

Movie at the

Leg Lamp

CoolDown Block Party

Parade oafndlebars H Stars & JULY-AUGUST 2025 // 15

Luxury Legacy Where

Meets

For over 75 years, our locally owned jewelry store has been bringing timeless elegance and world-class craftsmanship to the heart of our hometown. From breathtaking custom designs to hand-selected diamonds and fine jewelry, they offer the kind of luxury you'd expect in the big city—right here where neighbors still know your name.

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LOCALLY STYLED This season local fashion is stepping into the spotlight, and it's never looked better. From laid-back casual to dressed-up elegance, vacation-ready vibes to bold statement pieces, our town is full of shops serving up fresh looks for every occasion. We teamed up with local boutiques and hometown models to show off just how stylish Chickasha can be. Whether you're planning a night out, a weekend getaway or just want to elevate your everyday apparel, you'll find something to love right here at home.

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VACATION VIBES Effortlessly cool and comfortably chic, these pieces bring the easygoing spirit of a getaway right into your daily wardrobe. Lightweight fabrics and relaxed silhouettes keep you feeling fresh, whether you’re grabbing coffee downtown, heading to a casual brunch or enjoying a stroll on the beach. Perfectly wearable for any occasion, this look proves that laid-back style can still turn heads.

TANS UNLIMITED

Fuchsia Jumper Lilac Button Dress

TWO VETS

Straw Hat Tropical Palm Polo

J DANIELLE

Layered Necklace

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EFFORTLESS STAPLES Timeless, comfortable and endlessly versatile, these wardrobe essentials are your go-to for any day of the week.

From classic shorts and tees to flowy boho tops, matching sets to breezy sundresses, each piece is designed to simplify your style while keeping it fresh and polished. Perfect for mixing, matching and making your own, these staples are all about easy, everyday confidence.

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PERREFITTE

BLUE BIRD

BLOSSOM'S

TAMMIE'S BLING

Matching Short Set Gold Woven Sandals

Boho Floral Top Rhinestone Jeans

Purple Body Suit Vintage Soul Tee Acid Wash Jean Shorts Flared Denim Shorts Crossbody Clutch Platform Sneakers Beaded Necklace

BLU BIRD

Paris Tee Sequin Fringe Skirt

BLOSSOM'S

High-Low Floral Dress

TAMMIE'S Floral Sundress Black Bow Sandals

PERREFITTE

Embroidery Top Classic White Pant Gold Pendant Necklace

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5TH STREET

Floral Sundress Simple Slide Sandals

5TH STREET

White Bodysuit Sheer Cardigan Mint Crop Pants Tan Heel Layered Necklace

WING T'S

Strength Tee Distressed Jeans Hex Sunglasses

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LAID BACK LUXE Chic meets relaxed comfort in this look that’s perfect for those who want to feel polished without trying too hard. Soft, premium fabrics and tailored details elevate casual pieces into a refined style which works perfectly for everything from brunch dates to evening gatherings. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and couture, casual dressing with a luxe twist.

5TH STREET

Two Piece Set Thatch Tote

J DANIELLE

Sand Sunglasses

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SOUTHERN FLAIR HICKS

Boho Floral Jumper Silver Necklace Oval Concho Belt Plaid Shirt Dark Wash Jeans Western Boots

J DANIELLE Brim Hat

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Classic southern charm meets casual comfort in these laid-back looks made for warm days and friendly gatherings. From breathable linens to relaxed denim and timeless plaids, these outfits capture the spirit of easy-going style with just the right touch of hospitality. Perfect for porch sittin’, weekend barbecues or a casual night out this southern flair never goes out of style.

HICKS

Cowboy Surfer Button Shirt Dark Wash Jeans Western Boots

HICKS

Fringe Cream Tee Dark Wash Flare Jeans Green Western Boots

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PALM + CO

Pink Denim Ruffle Top Sparkle Denim Skirt Pink Classic Sandals

PALM & CO

Peach Floral Sundress Sandy Platform Sandals

PALM + CO

Brown Matching Set Black Platform Slides

J DANIELLE

Layered Necklace Bracelet Brim Hat

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SIMPLE & CHIC Minimalism meets elegance in these streamlined looks designed to make a statement without being over the top. Clean lines, neutral tones and classic cuts create versatile outfits that transition seamlessly from day to night. Perfect for those who appreciate refined style with an easy, polished vibe.

PALM + CO

White Denim Top Red & White Shorts Tie Front Top Distressed Jeans Denim Dress Heart Chain Necklace

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THANK YOU! All models featured in this article are proud members of Chickasha and the surrounding communities. We’re grateful for their enthusiasm in showcasing the style and spirit of our local shops. Each outfit is provided by our hometown boutiques who generously partnered with us to highlight their styles. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helps bring these pages to life — your support makes it all possible.

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5TH STREET

BLOSSOM

BLU BIRD

HICKS

J DANIELLE

PALM + CO

PERREFITTE

TAMMIE'S

TANS UNLIMITED

TWO VETS

406 W Chickasha Ave 416 W Chickasha Ave Tues-Fri 10am-5pm Tues-Fri 11am-6pm Sat 10am-3pm Sat 10am-2pm 5thstreetuniqueboutique.com shoptheblossom.com

301 W Chickasha Ave Mon 9am-6pm Tues-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-4pm palmcoapparel.com

117 S 4th St Mon-Fri 10am-5:30pm Sat 10am-4pm perrefittehome.com

For purchase online only blubirdboutique.com

123 W Chickasha Ave Mon-Thurs 10am-6pm Fri-Sat 10am-4pm tammiesbling.com

410 W Choctaw Ave Mon-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 9am-5pm

320 W Chickasha Ave Mon-Fri 10am-8pm Sat 10am-3pm tansunlimitedco.com

2721 Ponderosa Dr Tues-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 9am-4pm jdaniellesalon.com

1427 S 4th St Mon-Thurs 10am-6pm Fri-Sat 10am-7pm twovetsclothingco.com

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It's time for the Grady County Free Fair!

AUG 21 - 23 AT THE GRADY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS It's time for the annual fair in Chickasha, marking the 110th year of fun, competition, shopping, events and, of course, food! This year is sure to impress with a wide range of entertainment and no end to the fun. Grab your friends and family and take a trip to the fairgrounds for this once a year event. Learn more and see the up-to-date schedule at gradycountyfairgrounds.com.

GET OUT AND HAVE SOME FUN!

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What to Expect Food Events Ribbon Cutting Livestock Shows Cake Auction Honoree Presentation

Contests Fair Princess Fair Little Miss OHCE and 4-H Farm Mechanics Flowers Cakes Tractor Driving FFA Olympics Mullet Cattle Fitting Corn Dog Eating

Lemonade Corndogs Gourmet Popcorn Pork Skins Fajita Fries OHCE Concession Indian Tacos Chicken and Noodles Beans and Cornbread Chicken Fried Steak And more!

Fun Vendors Galore Carnival Live Music Kid Pedal Tractor Pull

JDewbre Photography 2025 FAIR PHOTOGRAPHER Sponsored by Interurban of Chickasha

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Schedule of Events

Thursday, July 31 9am-12pm Hay Entries Due Monday, Aug 18 4:30pm Princess Contest Interviews 6:30pm 4th Annual Little Miss Contest 7pm 35th Annual Princess Talent Show Tuesday, Aug 19 3-5:30pm Take OHCE, 4-H, Open Class, Farm Mechanics and Flower Entries Wednesday, Aug 20 9am Judging of OHCE, 4H, FCCLA, Open Class, Farm Mechanics and Flowers, Hay Show Thursday, Aug 21 9am Youth Horse Show 12-9pm Vendor Booths Open 12-2:30pm Cake Entries Due 3-5pm Cake Judging 6pm Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Fair Honoree Presentation 6pm-11pm Carnival Open* 6:10pm Cake Auction, Princess and Little Miss Crowning 7pm Live Entertainment Friday, Aug 22 10am-9pm Vendor Booths Open 6pm Goat Show, Sheep Show 6pm-11pm Carnival Open* 7pm Live Entertainment Saturday, Aug 23 8am 4H/FFA Tractor Driving Content 9am Swine Show, Poultry Show 9am-9pm Vendor Booths Open 10am Rabbit Show 12pm-11pm Carnival Open* 1pm FFA Olympics Contest 2pm Corn Dog Eating Contest 2:30pm Mullet Contest 3pm Cattle Fitting Contest 4:30pm Pet Show 5pm Bucket Calf Show, Dairy Show, Beef Show 6pm Open Alfalfa Hay Bids, Kid's Pedal Tractor Pull 7pm Live Entertainment *Weather Permitting

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Sma l l Tow n Stor ie s

T H E H I S TO RY O F C H I C K A S H A ' S

D

Borden General Hospital

uring World War II, Chickasha, Oklahoma became the site of a vital U.S. Army medical facility: Borden General Hospital. Opened in 1942, the hospital was named in honor of Brigadier General William C. Borden, a renowned military surgeon.

It was one of many military hospitals built across the country to care for wounded servicemen returning from combat. Chickasha's location specialized is patients needing surgery and those needing hearing and speech rehabilitation.

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At its peak, Borden General featured over 100 buildings and more than 2,000 beds, sprawled across 157 acres of land at locations such as the current Grady Memorial Hospital site, Chickasha High School and Borden Park, making it one of the largest hospitals in the region at the time. Thousands of soldiers passed through its doors for care and spent months recovering before returning home or rejoining their units.

The hospital had a significant impact on Chickasha’s economy and culture. It

brought medical jobs and introduced new residents to the community. Many local citizens worked at Borden as well.

Thank you to the Grady County Historical Society for information regarding this article.

After the war, Borden General Hospital was decommissioned in 1946. Its sprawling campus was dismantled. Today, it's home to Grady Memorial Hospital, Southern Plains Medical Center, Five Oaks Medical Group, and Borden Park.

Borden General Hospital remains a powerful symbol of Chickasha’s contribution to the national war effort — a place where healing met heroism, and where a small town made a big difference during one of history’s most challenging times.

Military staff 1943

WWII Borden General Medical Patch

Aerial view of Borden Hospital

Borden General with water tower in the background.

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Credit: chefsbliss.com

Tropical Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos laid back summer dinner Preparation

Ingredients

Step 1 Add chicken, pineapple, coconut milk, lime juice, honey, chili powder, cumin and salt to the crockpot.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained) • 1/2 cup coconut milk • 2 TB lime juice • 1 TB honey • 1 tsp chili powder • 1/2 tsp ground cumin • Salt to taste • Corn or flour tortillas • Optional toppings: shredded cabbage, avocado, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Step 2 Stir gently to combine.

Step 3 Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4 Shred the chicken and return it to the pot to soak up the juices.

Step 5 Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings!

Feeds 2-4 People

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P E T of the M O N T H

Bodhi Breed Biewer (pronounced beaver) Terrier Color Black, white, brown Best Trick Loves to bark at animals on TV Fun Fact His breed was recognized by AKC in 2021 Lovable Quirk He is a smart little guy who loves to play Owner Wayne and Jana Dabney 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

Rip Breed Labrador Retriever Color Fox Red Best Trick Rip loves to play ball and swimming after his ball in the pond Favorite Treat Lover of all treats Lovable Quirk Rip loves attention from everyone he meets Owner Albert and Donita Wolf If you'd like to submit your pet for pet of the month, send a photo and info to oh18.livelocal@gmail.com.

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A GUIDE FOR LIVING LOCAL

J U LY - A U G U S T 2 0 2 5