Annual Cowboy Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 10 am
Stockyards City Main Street would like to invite everyone to come to historic Stockyards City for the annual Cowboy Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 7th!
The festivities kick off at 10:00 a.m. with the Slash O Ranch Longhorns leading the parade. Also included in the parade are equestrian groups, marching bands, antique cars, community groups, law enforcement, pageant royalty, the famous Cowboy Santa, and much more!
We are excited to announce that this years Grand Marshal is Gatlin Didier. Gatlin has gained prominence as a social media creator, particularly known for his work on platforms like TikTok, where he showcases life on his family’s ranch in Fay, Oklahoma. His content often revolves around humorous and educational skits about farm life with characters like Darrell Bibbins in “Farm Stuff with Darrell.” He also runs his family’s direct-to-consumer beef company, Didier Ranch, and utilizes his social media platform to help market their beef to people nationwide.
The Didier’s have been farming and ranching in Oklahoma since 1902 at the very place they operate at today.
Originally from Oklahoma, Gatlin moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting but returned to his family ranch when his acting career didn’t take off as planned. Back home, he began creating content that eventually led to his online fame.
His videos include characters like Darrell Bibbins and his grandmother, Granny Bibbins, who became quite popular, especially with segments like “Tips with Granny.” His work not only entertains but also educates about rural life, blending humor with everyday farm activities.
If you want to check out Gatlin’s family’s beef and their story go to didierranch.com
Beyond entertainment, Gatlin aims to change the narrative around farming and rural life, bringing a fresh, positive perspective to the entertainment industry, emphasizing persistence and hope
through his personal story of returning to the ranch.
The parade will begin at Pennsylvania and Exchange, head west on Exchange to Agnew, turn south on Agnew to S.W. 15th Street. Following the parade, you can get your picture made with Cowboy Santa at Rodeo Cinema, 2221 Exchange Avenue.
Shop the unique locally owned stores and grab a bite to eat! You might even find a few surprises, so plan on stayin’ a while. We hope to see you on Saturday, December 7th!
Interested in becoming a part of this iconic event? Contact
City Main Street office at 405-235-7267 or email
for more details.
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Stockyards City Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, November 22, 2024
6 pm to 7 pm
Stockyards City Tree Lighting
Please join us in Historic Stockyards City on Friday, November 22nd at 6:00 pm for the Stockyards City Tree Lighting Ceremony! The event will take place at the corner of Agnew and Exchange next to the Headin’ to Market statue.
The Western Heights High School Choir, conducted by director Phillip Barnett, will be performing. The choir participates every year in the Oklahoma City Solo and Ensemble competition and Tri-state contest. The choir performs a Veteran’s Day concert along with other concerts at school as well as a large musical every year. Last year the choir performed three amazing performances of West Side Story and the year before three wonderful performances of the Aladdin Musical.
Cowboy Santa will be there for pictures and there will be free hot chocolate for all. We hope you can join us for the festivities!
Behind the Scenes at Stockyards City Parades: Edmond Amateur Radio Society (E.A.R.S.)
BY: Sunny Martinez
The Edmond Amateur Radio Society (E.A.R.S.), founded in 1957, plays a key role in the smooth execution of many parades and events in the Edmond area and surrounding communities, including the Stockyards City (SYC) Main Street parades. For over seven years, E.A.R.S. volunteers have helped transform the controlled chaos of parade lineups into seamless, enjoyable experiences for spectators.
Bringing Order to the Parades
E.A.R.S. has been a behind-the-scenes hero at Stockyards City Cowboy Christmas and the St. Patrick’s Day parades, ensuring participants are coordinated and in place before the event starts. “We assist in turning what looks like one big clump of participants into a well-ordered line,” says Steven Christy, a volunteer with E.A.R.S. He shared how his team’s coordination ensures everything goes off without a hitch, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Helping Across Events
Beyond the Stockyards City parades, E.A.R.S. supports many other events, including Liberty Fest, Cycle 66 Bike Races, and the OKC Memorial Marathon. At some of these events, over 100 radio handlers provide essential communications, especially in emergencies. Christy recalled an instance during the Cycle 66 race where a cyclist fell and injured herself. Thanks to E.A.R.S.’ quick communication, medical assistance arrived promptly.
A Volunteer’s Perspective
Having just started volunteering last year, Christy fondly remembers his first Stockyards City parade experience, admiring the Longhorns at the front and Santa’s festive arrival. “The decorations, the spirit, and the crowd make the event special. Being
part of it is an amazing experience.”
Get Involved
For those interested in helping with SYC Main Street parades, Christy encourages volunteering with E.A.R.S. No license is required for these smaller-scale parades, making it a great opportunity to get involved. However, for those looking to assist at larger events, becoming licensed is recommended. Information on classes and licensing can be found on the E.A.R.S. website: https://k5eok.orgg.
Interested in becoming a part of any iconic events? Contact Stockyards City Main Street office at 405-235-7267 or email office@stockyardscity.org for more details.
Come to Stockyards City on Saturday, November 30th and SHOP SMALL!
Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses and communities across the country and is part of the larger Shop Small Movement.
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Stockyards City: Oklahoma City’s Hidden Art Treasure!
BY: Sunny Martinez
Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma City, Stockyards City is more than just a historic cattle trading hub—it’s a vibrant destination for art lovers. From striking murals to unique sculptures, this district’s eclectic blend of Western heritage and contemporary art is drawing in a new wave of visitors.
Known for its rustic charm and cowboy roots, Stockyards City has evolved into an open-air canvas for local artists. Colorful murals stretch across buildings throughout the neighborhood, celebrating Oklahoma’s rich Western legacy
while weaving in modern artistic flair. Each piece captures a unique take on the past, resonating deeply with both locals and tourists.
For collectors, Stockyards City is a treasure trove of Western art, showcasing works from celebrated local artists that reflect the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the Southwest. Every Main Street business has its own artistic touch, inviting exploration and discovery around every corner.
If you’re drawn to art with a deep cultural connection, Stockyards City invites you to experience a side of Oklahoma that seamlessly melds past and present. Come for the history— and stay for the art.
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Swaim Veterinary Clinic
Continuing the Legacy of Loving Care
BY: Sunny
Cassy Eberhart, Swaim Veterinary Clinic Practice Manager was kind enough to sit down and share Dr. John Swaim’s family history and the Swaim Veterinary Clinic history and legacy here in Stockyards City.
Can you tell us a bit about how your business started and the Swaim family history in Stockyards City?
The Swaim family has a deep connection to Stockyards City, with roots stretching back to the 1920s. It all began when the Swaim family started manufacturing hog cholera serum under Fidelity Laboratories. At that time, their facilities were spread across Oklahoma City, Okmulgee, and even Chicago. They were known for producing not only hog cholera serum but also clostridial vaccinations, a vital resource for livestock at the time.
Behind what is now Exchange Baptist Church, hogs were kept and hyperimmunized. The blood collected from these hogs was used to make the cholera serum, then the hogs were sent to the stockyards for sale. This operation ran for several years until the USDA shifted its focus to liquidating affected hog farms rather than treating the disease. As a result, the Swaims sold their company to Pfizer.
In 1948, Charles E. Swaim and his wife Helene opened C.E. Swaim Serum Co., the first statewide agricultural wholesale company in Oklahoma, right on Exchange Avenue. By the late 1970s, Swaim’s moved to their current location at 1601 S. Agnew Avenue. Dr. John Swaim, who had graduated from veterinary school, opened Swaim’s Veterinary Clinic in 1993, where the practice continues to thrive.
In 2009, Dr. Swaim sold the practice to Jason
Shipman, and by 2019, it was acquired by Heartland Veterinary Partners, though the Swaim name remains synonymous with quality care.
What is an interesting fact about your business that most people don’t know?
One surprising fact is that Swaim’s Veterinary Clinic stayed in the Swaim family for nearly a century. It’s a legacy of almost 100 years of dedicated service to the community. Today, Dr. John Swaim still owns the building, and we rent it from him. This tradition of care is something we are proud to carry forward.
What products or services are you most proud of offering? What are your hours of operation?
Our hours are Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. We’re closed on Sundays.
At Swaim’s, we offer a wide range of services, including dentistry, surgical procedures such as spaying, neutering, and mass removals, diagnostics, preventive care like vaccines, microchipping, nutrition consultations, and a full-service veterinarian pharmacy.
We’re especially proud of the high-quality care we provide at reasonable prices. Pet care can be expensive, and we strive to work with our clients’ budgets. Whether someone has $100 or more to spend, we do our best to think outside the box and find solutions to help every pet.
Why did the Swaim family choose Stockyards City in the 1920s to set up business?
Stockyards City was the center of Oklahoma’s agricultural activity at the time, making it the perfect location for their business. Being so close to the stockyards allowed the Swaims to conveniently take hogs to market after producing the cholera serum. The area was bustling with activity and perfectly aligned with their agricultural work.
How did Dr. John Swaim feel about being on the Stockyards City Main Street Board?
Dr. Swaim served on the Stockyards City Main Street Board from around 1979 until his retirement in 2009. He chaired the organization committee responsible for event planning, including parades, and was involved in community outreach such as the “internet service/newsletter.” At one point, he served as vice president of the board. Dr. Swaim says it was the right role for him at the time, and he enjoyed being able to give back to the community that had supported his family’s business for so many decades.
This spotlight captures the rich history of the Swaim family business, its long-standing roots in Stockyards City, and its ongoing commitment to pet care and community involvement.
Fidelity laboratories was located at 1833 or 1838 SW 13th Street
Photograph was orginally used for a story in the Oklahoma Times newspaper. Orginal photographer: Kaho, C. J. May 4, 1939.
Current Location: 1601 S. Agnew Avenue
Martinez
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
Community News
BY: Debbie Harrison
The Oklahoma Main Street Center recently announced the winners of the program’s annual statewide awards competition. Finalists were recognized and the winners announced during the 34th annual Main Street Awards Banquet in Oklahoma City.
Programs across the state competed in award categories representing the “Four Points” of the Main Street Approach which are Organization, Promotion, Economic Vitality and Design. Panels of outside judges for each point reviewed the entries and determined the winners.
Congratulations to Stockyards City’s Boxcar Woody Furniture Co. for receiving the Outstanding Business Expansion Award at the Oklahoma Main Street Awards Ceremony!
The 3rd annual Miss Rodeo Oklahoma Hall of Fame Gala, presented by the Oklahoma Rodeo Pageants Council, Inc., was held on October 26th at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. At the Gala they honored Hall of Fame Inductees and Oklahoma’s Best for 2024.
One of the inductees was the late Jack J. Wells, who has many ties to Stockyards City. Jack left his mark on Stockyards City and the State of Oklahoma. He will be remembered always.
Also, congratulations to Dona Kay Rule for receiving the new Freckles Brown Legacy Award! Dona Kay also has ties to Stockyards City. Her and her husband John were previous owners of National Saddlery.
Keep your eyes open for the 2024 Stockyards City Holiday Gift Guide!
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
The annual Stockyards Stampede was a huge success! See you Next Year!
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Did You Know?
Lilyfield Nonprofit Spotlight: Strengthening Families and Communities
BY: Sunny Martinez
Lilyfield, a nonprofit based in Stockyards City, is on a mission to create healthy, supportive environments for at-risk children and youth. According to Executive Director Holly Towers, the organization offers a wide range of services aimed at ensuring children grow up in safe and nurturing homes. “Some families need only a little support, while others require more intensive help,” says Towers, highlighting the nonprofit’s 2Gen approach, which provides support to both children and their families.
Lilyfield’s services include mental health counseling, parent education, mentoring, child- care programs, pregnancy support, and foster care. The organization also offers family strengthening programs, job skills training, youth coaching, and free CPR and wellness classes. These services aim to empower families and help them develop healthy relationships and longterm stability.
One of Lilyfield’s key projects is the Westwood Community Challenge, a partnership with the Oklahoma City Housing Authority. The initiative will transform a building in the Will Rogers Courts housing community into a vibrant community center, offering resources for residents of all ages.
As part of their upcoming events, Lilyfield, in collaboration with Wright Library and EmpowerOKC, will host Science Explorers for Kids in November and “Around the World: Holidays” in December. These programs, located at Lilyfield 1841 Exchange Ave., promise to engage and inspire children during the holiday season.
Looking toward the future, Lilyfield has launched its Three Year Cultivate Campaign, which aims to renew families, restore connections, and rebuild communities. Additionally, their Advancing Sustainability campaign seeks to establish long-term funding to ensure that the nonprofit can continue to provide its essential services.
Lilyfield is inviting the Stockyards City community to get involved in various ways, from sharing the organization’s mission through social media and hosting events to becoming a GROWTH Partner by making financial contributions. The nonprofit is also seeking volunteers to serve as community mentors for local 4th and 5th graders, offering support to children and their families one afternoon a week, once the volunteers have passed background check and training program.
For more information on how to donate or volunteer, visit https://www.lilyfield.org
Tools for your Business
“Tools for Your Business” will be a free and interactive event for all business owners and entrepreneurs.
WHEN & WHERE:
Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025 | 5 - 7 pm
Cattlemen’s Special Event Center, 1325 South Agnew
Reserve la fecha:
HERRAMIENTAS PARA SU NEGOCIO
“Herramientas Para Su Negocio” será un evento gratuito e interactivo para todos los dueños de negocios y emprendedores. CUÁNDO & DÓNDE:
Jueves 20 de Febrero de 2025 | 5-7 p.m. Cattlemen’s Special Event Center, 1325 South Agnew
2025 Special Dates!
Saturday, March 15th, 2025
St. Patrick’s Parade
Saturday, June 7th, 2025
Wines of the West
Saturday, October 18th, 2025
Stockyards Stampede
Friday, November 21st, 2025
Stockyards City Tree Lighting Ceremony
Saturday, December 6th, 2025
Annual Cowboy Christmas Parade
Interested in becoming a part of any event? Contact Stockyards City Main Street office at 405-235-7267 or email office@stockyardscity.org for more details.
Spotlight SYC Pet of the Month: Meet Nelle!
At the remarkable age of 16, Nelle, a charming Jack Russell Terrier, has been an essential part of her family for over a decade and a half. Known for her outgoing personality, Nelle is a hardworking socialite who thrives on greeting guests and customers during tours at Shorty’s Hattery. This little lady may have slowed down over the years, but her friendly spirit remains as lively as ever.
An interesting tidbit? In her younger days, Nelle was an avid fetch player, zipping around tirelessly after every toss. Though fetch is a fond memory now, her passion for “people food” hasn’t wavered, and she gladly accepts any allowed treat. Nelle’s warmth and dedication make her a truly lovable member of the team and a welcoming presence for all who visit Shorty’s Caboy Hattery at 1007 S. Agnew Ave.
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Celebrate the Holiday Season with Wright Library!
BY: Stacy Harris
As we move into the holiday season, remember that Wright Library is here to bring some joy and learning into your life. We’ve got exciting events planned for all ages, and we’d love for you to join us.
Upcoming Events at Wright Library!
Coffee for the Community
Start your day with free coffee at Wright Library’s monthly Coffee for the Community on Saturday, November 2, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Whether you stay to explore our materials, sign up for a library card, use our computers and free Wi-Fi, or just grab a cup to go, we’re here to serve you!
Goodwill
Job Connection & Employment Services
Do you or someone you know need help searching for jobs in the community, filling out a job application online, or writing a resume? Access free computer and employment services and more, on Goodwill’s Job Connection Center Mobile Unit, Tuesday, November 5, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. joy the cozy ambiance of Wright Library, the oldest branch in the Metropolitan Library System!
Boost Your Tech Skills
Looking to improve your computer skills? Join our Computer Keys series held at the Downtown Library (300 Park Ave). Computer Keys is designed to help you get comfortable with essential software and online tools. Teens and adults (ages 14+) are invited to our upcoming classes:
• Excelling with Microsoft Excel: Beginners will learn how to use Excel to create spreadsheets, use formulas, and organize data on Saturday, November 9, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at the Downtown Library.
• PowerPoint Essentials: Beginners can learn how to use PowerPoint to create stunning slideshows, add images and animations, and sharpen your presentation skills on Saturday, December 14, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM.
More Events at Wright Library!
Hot Chocolate and Coffee for Cowboy Christmas
Warm up with us before and after the Stockyards City Cowboy Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 7, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Bring the family for free hot chocolate or coffee and enjoy the cozy ambiance of Wright Library, the oldest branch in the Metropolitan Library System!
Wright in Your Community
We’re excited to partner with Empower OKC at Lilyfield South (1841 Exchange Ave) for some fun events this holiday season.
• Science Explorers for Kids: On Tuesday, November 19, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, kids will dive into the wonders of science through interactive experiments.
• Around the World: Holidays: Families are invited to create Austrian New Year’s Good Luck Charms on Tuesday, December 17, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This hands-on event is a fun way to explore international holiday traditions, and it’s ideal for school-aged children (K-5).
Can’t make it to the library? Our Take-Home Kits are perfect for individuals or families! These kits are packed with engaging activities and easyto-follow instructions. Reserve yours online at www.metrolibrary.org/events.
• STEAM-tastic Surprise Kits (available in November and December)
• Winter Holiday Themed Family Take & Make Kit (available in December)
For more details on these events and many other exciting programs, visit us online at www.metrolibrary.org or stop by to see us at the Wright Library at 2101 Exchange Avenue. From all of us at Wright Library and the Metropolitan Library System, we wish you a joyful holiday season and look forward to celebrating with you!
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Stockyards City Directory
RESTAURANTS/BARS
Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
Los Comales Mexican Restaurant
McClintock Saloon & Chop House
Oklahoma Smoke BBQ
The Paddock Club
ENTERTAINMENT
Museum of Horseshoeing
Rodeo Cinema
Stockyards City Haunted Warehouse
RETAIL
1910 Western Wear
Boxcar Woody Furniture Co
Boxcar Woody Lumber
Boxcar Woody Manufacturing
Delco Diesel Services
Exchange Pharmacy
Gellco Clothing & Shoes
Grain and Grange
Grain and Grange Design Center
Grain and Grange Market
Little Joe’s Boots
Langson’s Western Wear IPRA
Mi Tienda
Mike’s Custom Saddles
Murphy Products
National Saddlery/Crossbar Gallery
Oklahoma Native Art and Jewelry
Shorty’s Caboy Hattery
Stockyards City Equipment Rental
Stockyards Sarsaparilla
Western Wear Outlet
Wild Filly Boutique
BUSINESSESS
AAA AC Supply
Advise Bail Bonds
Alon
Baptist Mission Center
Cattlemen’s Special Event Center
Crawford Phillips
Cuttin’ Co., The Family Health Clinic
First United Bank (ATM)
Friendly Foods (ATM)
Grace Rescue Mission
Industry Care Wash
Keithy Ray’s Truck and Auto
King Wholesale
KIS Futures
Martinez Agency
Mick’s Automotive
National Saddlery Arena
OKC Fire Station #8
Oklahoma Cattleman’s Association
Oklahoma National Stockyards
Petroleum Marketers
Post Office
Power & Performance Automotive
Radio Oklahoma Ag Network
Stockyards City Boot Repair
Stockyards City Convenience Store
Stockyards City Main Street
Superior Truck Driving Academy
Swaim Veterinary Clinic
Wright Library
