Stockyards City Times

Volume 5, Issue 02, May/June 2024

Stockyards City archway design by John Mesa and original artwork by Jack J. Wells

Come to Historic Stockyards City for the 14th annual Wines of the West! The event will be held on Saturday, June 1st from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Corral, 2200 Exchange Avenue.

Attendees will be able to sample different varieties of wine, watch live entertainment, and enjoy a Made in Oklahoma Market. Performing during the event will be Luke Haley (playing at 11:00 am), Maddox Ross (playing at 12:00 pm), Michael and Lela Dalby (playing a 1:00 pm), and Tanner Fields (playing at 2:00 pm). While in Stockyards City, shop at the most unique boutiques and knowledgeable western merchants around! There will be dining options throughout the evening as well.

Wines of the West is the first sign of summer here in Stockyards City! Tickets are required for the wine tasting. They are only $20 per person if purchased in advance, or $25 the day of the event. Ticket purchasers are required to show a government issued photo ID, be at least 21 years of age, and must wear the event bracelet to sample the wines.

The entire family is welcome to attend the event. We hope to see you on Saturday, June 1st!

You can purchase tickets here: https://bit.ly/3xPqEW0

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OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY

Langston’s: A Legacy of Western Heritage

BY: Sunny Martinez

Dave Miller, the General Manager of Langston’s Stockyards City location, takes pride in the rich history of the company, which dates to 1913. Dave shared insights into the evolution of Langston’s and the unique culture it fosters.

Originally a general merchandise store, Langston’s catered to diverse needs, from groceries to hardware, evolving over 111 years into a premier western wear clothing store. Miller, who joined the company in 2000, oversees operations and apparel buying, ensuring a curated selection of western-style merchandise.

One fascinating aspect of Langston’s is its Stockyards City location, established in 1949. Initially spanning 7,000 squarefeet, it has expanded to over a 22,000 square-foot store. Miller reminisces about the building’s colorful past, once home to bars, a drugstore, and even a Western wear retailer.

Langston’s is a family-owned and operated business, preserving a traditional employer-employee relationship. With staff members with decades-long tenures, Langston’s fosters a sense of loyalty and camaraderie uncommon in modern retail.

Miller’s involvement with the Stockyards City Main Street board for nearly two decades reflects his commitment to preserving the area’s western heritage. He believes the association has been instrumental in maintaining the district’s authenticity while promoting growth and community spirit.

For Miller, Stockyards City isn’t just a place of business; it’s a way of life. He praises its slower pace, genuine camaraderie, and unwavering integrity, making it a beacon of authenticity in an increasingly fast-paced city. Whether it’s the nostalgic charm of yesteryears or the genuine warmth of its people, Stockyards City holds a special place in the heart of those who call it home.

In an era where authenticity is a rare find, Langston’s stands as a testament to timeless values and enduring traditions, inviting visitors to experience the true essence of the American West.

Stockyards City Main Street receives Accreditation

BY: Debbie Harrison

Main Street America recently annouced the programs that have achieved Accreditation status in recognition of their commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street ApproachTM

The 2024 network designated Main Street members includes 800 programs that earned this Accredited status nationally, the top designation tier, for demonstrating a proven track record of achieving outcomes in alighment with the Main Street Approach and exceptional performance in the six standards of community evaluation.

The program’s performance was evaluated through assessments conducted by Stockyards City Main Street personnel, board of directors, and the Oklahoma Main Street Center, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify the programs that meet rigorous national community evaluation standards. These standards provide the Main Street America network with a strong foundational framework to review progress, recognize strengths, understand trends, and identify strategies that move Main Street programs forward. Programs must demonstrate a strong commitment to the Main Street model, meet a set of baseline requirements, and achieve outcomes in six areas: board-based community commitment to revitalization; inclusive leadership and organizational capacity; diversified funding and sustainable program operations; strategy-driven programming; preservation-based economic development; and demonstrated impact and results.

Congratulations to Stockyards City Main Street!

Harrison Reaches Five-Year Milestone with Stockyards City Main Street

BY: Kelli Payne

Stockyards City Main Street Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Debbie Harrison, Executive Director, is celebrating her five-year anniversary with the organization. Mrs. Harrison began in March of 2019 and has brought continutiy and increased collaboration to the Main Street Program. Through Harrison’s tenure, the district has increased volunteerism by 350%, hosting many students from OU’s Big Events for clean-up opportunitites in the Spring, as well as volunteering for the Easter ‘Eggs’travaganza the past three years. Additionally, sponsorship opportunities have increased along with adding extra features to events such as Made In Oklahoma Pop Up Markets.

David Lanham, current Stockyards City Main Street President and owner of Delco Diesel stated “Debbie is a true supporter and friend of the district. She has created exceptional dialogue with the merchants and business owners, as well as elected officials. We are certainly honored to have Debbie serve as our Executive Director, and we look forward to many more years with her at the helm!”

Mrs. Harrison has been involved in private business as well as bringing over three decades of community development experience to Stockyards City. She serves on the Canadian County Excise and Equalization Board and the El Reno Public School Foundation. She has also served as the Executive Director of El Reno Main Street and the El Reno Convention and Visitors Bureau, and a member of the El Reno City Council.

Founded in 1992, Stockyards City Main Street was the first urban Main Street program in Oklahoma. They serve to provide marketing for the business district, oversee a maintenance program, and support economic development endeavors. Stockyards City Main Street is a Nationally Accredited Main Street program. For more information, please visit stockyardscity.org.

Kelli Payne, Vice President of Stockyards City Main Street Board

Debbie Harrison, Executive Director of Stockyards City Main Street

Dave Miller, General Manager of Langston’s and Board Member of Stockyards City Main Street

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The 60th World Livestock Auctioneer Championship (WLAC) is set to take place in conjunction with the Livestock Marketing Association’s (LMA) Annual Convention June 12-15, 2024, in Oklahoma City.

A total of 31 semi-finalist auctioneers will compete in the championship event, 4 from Oklahoma. The auctioneering contest will begin with the interview portion of the competition where each WLAC semi-finalist must clearly establish and demonstrate their knowledge of the livestock marketing industry.

The second part of the competition will take place during a live sale at Oklahoma National Stockyards, in Stockyards City, where contestants will sell cattle to actual bidders in the seats. If you see any visitors here for the World Livestock Auctioneer Competition, welcome them to Stockyards City!

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OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY

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STOCKYARDS CITY ARTBEAT

BY: Kathryn Walker Richardson

Bob E. Palmer, PhD, Oklahoma artist and educator, retired in 2014 to business and private life after over four decades of teaching art. His final position as an educator was a Professor of Art, in the Department of Art, in the College of Arts, Media and Design with University of Central Oklahoma, in Edmond, OK.

Dr. Palmer’s many notable accolades include; “2001 Outstanding Oklahoma Higher Education Faculty Member”, “2007 Oklahoma Art Educator of the Year”, and “2013 Governor’s Art Award in Community Service,” presented by Honorable Mary Fallin, Governor of the State of Oklahoma. “Slice” Magazine also named Dr. Palmer as “One of the Visionaries in Arts in Oklahoma”.

From the small town of Walters, Oklahoma, Dr. Palmer is probably best known by his over 3,800 murals around the state of Oklahoma, Canada, Mexico and Europe. These public works reflect not only his love for historical accuracy but also our western heritage such as depicted on the north facing wall of Shorty’s Caboy Hattery in Stockyards City, Oklahoma.

“Creating art is the way I breathe, live, and dream. It is me at my best,” states Palmer.

With inspiration from impressionists like Monet and Van Gogh and other Baroque painters, Palmer enjoys taking it BIG—“I gravitate to painting large. My hope is to connect with viewers in a way that they may share in the experience or allow them to recall their own”.

With his thriving mural business, Palmer Studios, Bob continues to elevate the ‘mundane’ to ‘art’ status with the support from wife, Carolyn, and family while living in Bethany, OK.

SADDLES, TACK, ROPES, RODEO GEAR & BOOTS!

“My work is my best language–communication far greater than speech,” says Bob.

Dr. Palmer continues to paint, adjudicate art shows, conduct workshops, hold memberships in several art and professional organizations, and wrote and published a book about his many murals and the stories behind them: Painting Oklahoma and Beyond.

“Through the art of murals, we are able to touch the heart and memories of our historic past and pass on that heritage in a visual form to our children and community,” states Bob.

Dr. Bob Palmer stands with his life sized western mural of longhorns at Shorty’s Caboy Hattery. Photo credit to Valerie Bevill.

STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES

Superior Truck Driving Academy Redefines CDL Training in Stockyards City

BY: Sunny Martinez

Jennifer Young, the Academy Director, and Kimberly Panico, the Sales Director, shed light on the innovative approach of Superior Truck Driving Academy in providing Class A CDL training. Situated in the heart of Stockyards City, Superior Truck Driving Academy stands out as a symbol of excellence in the industry.

Young explains that Superior specializes in Class A CDL training with a unique focus on manual trucks. Their curriculum is designed to ensure students graduate without automatic restrictions on their CDL, a distinction that sets them apart in Oklahoma City. Additionally, the academy has the only truck driving simulator in the area, offering students unparalleled training opportunities.

When asked about the choice of Stockyards City, Panico credits the area’s rich history and strategic location. She emphasizes the significance of being part of a vibrant community that values tradition and authenticity, aligning perfectly with Superior’s character.

Superior Truck Driving Academy offers a comprehensive range of services, including refresher courses, simulator training, and test truck rentals. Their commitment to individualized instruction and a student-centered approach has been pivotal to their success.

Despite being a new entrant, Superior Truck Driving Academy has quickly made waves in the industry. Young attributes their success to a dedicated team and a curriculum focused on practical experience rather than arbitrary hours. She emphasizes the importance of students leaving with confidence and expertise, not just a certificate.

Challenges, such as brand recognition, have not deterred Superior’s vision for the future. Panico outlines plans for

OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY

exclusivity and excellence rather than sheer size. They aim to set a new industry standard by producing the best-trained graduates, never compromising on quality for quantity.

Adam Taylor, the founder of Superior, brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience to the table. His insight into the trucking industry’s challenges inspired him to establish Superior Truck Driving Academy. With a commitment to changing perceptions and addressing the shortage of qualified drivers, Superior is poised for sustained growth and impact.

Superior Truck Driving Academy epitomizes innovation, quality, and dedication in CDL training, setting a benchmark for excellence in Stockyards City and beyond. For more information please visit https://superiortda.com

Stockyards Landing Open for Business!

Public

Ferry Departures

Board 10 minutes prior to departure.

Stockyards Landing (STY) | Meridian Landing (MER) Bricktown Landing (BT) | Regatta Landing (RL)

Get Ready for Summer Fun with the Metropolitan Library System!

BY: Stacy Harris

Summer is just around the corner, and here at the Metropolitan Library System, we’re gearing up for another exciting season of reading adventures! For over eighty years, our Summer Reading program has been a beloved tradition, keeping kids and families engaged with books throughout the sunny months. We believe that reading is not only a fundamental skill but also a key to unlocking success in life.

This year, our theme is “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” and we’re thrilled to invite you to join us for a summer packed with familyfriendly activities and literary exploration. Throughout June and July, each of our libraries will be buzzing with exciting events and opportunities for all ages to dive into the world of books.

Best of all, participating in our Summer Reading program won’t cost you a dime! Readers of all ages can earn fantastic incentives as they reach their reading goals. Children and teens can score free books and readers of all ages can enter to win drawings for some amazing prizes. Signing up is a breeze—simply hop online, download the Beanstack app, or visit us directly at the Wright Library.

But wait, there’s more! We’re not just here for individuals—we’re calling on local businesses to join the fun too. Consider organizing a staff book club, giving your employees some extra reading time, or even offering incentives to boost participation. Every minute counts, and together, we can work towards our community reading goals!

And that’s not all! MLS has collaborated with Rodeo Cinema to introduce Neighborhood Arts to Stockyards City every Friday at 2:00 pm throughout June and July! These programs are cherished summer traditions in the Metropolitan Library System, offering a variety of musical genres and performance arts to enhance the cultural scene. Supported by the Arts Council of OKC, National Endowment for the Arts, and the Oklahoma Arts Council, these performances aim to provide the community with access to music, dance, and visual arts education. For details about performers and dates, please check us out at metrolibrary.org or Stockyards City online calendars.

Don’t miss out on the excitement—mark your calendars and get ready to embark on a summer reading adventure with the Metropolitan Library System. See you at the library – adventure awaits!

*One way - no return trip. Blue trip drop off at BT for one hour. Return on BT 3:40 pm arriving to MER at 5:15 pm

https://www.embarkok.com/ferry/

Truck Driving Simunlator

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OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY

Stockyards City Directory

RESTAURANTS/BARS

Cattlemen’s Steakhouse

Los Comales Mexican Restaurant

McClintock Saloon & Chop House

The Paddock Club

ENTERTAINMENT

Museum of Horseshoeing

Rodeo Cinema

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

Langson’s Western Wear

Little Joe’s Boots

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

IPRA

King Wholesale

KIS Futures

Martinez Agency

Mick’s Automotive

National Saddlery Arena

OKC Fire Station #8

Oklahoma Cattleman’s Association

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