At 10:00 a.m. the longhorns will travel from the historic gates of Oklahoma National Stockyards on Exchange Avenue and head east to Young’s Boulevard. From Young’s Boulevard they will head south to S.W. 13 th Street and enter the National Saddlery Arena.
At 2:00 p.m. the longhorns will travel north on Agnew to Exchange and return to Oklahoma National Stockyards.
Chuck Wagon Camp
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Beginning at 10:00 a.m. you can watch demonstrations of traditional cooking. You can enjoy cornbread, stew, cobbler, and other food sampling from noon until 3:00 p.m.
Western Photo Booth
Shorty’s Caboy Hattery will have a free western photo booth. Come on by and make a memory!
Wagon Rides
Noon to 2:00 p.m.
Take a Wagon Ride at Langstons
The Corral Stage 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: Maddox Ross
10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.: Registration for Little Mr. and Miss Stockyards City
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.: Charros Del Roble Roping Demonstration
12:00 p.m.: Little Mr. and Miss Stockyards City Pageant
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Pony Rides * Petting Zoo * Dummy Roping * Corn Hole * Ag Activities
Made in Oklahoma Market
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Shop locally made items.
Oklahoma’s Best Beef Competition
Sampling from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Awards Ceremony at 3:00 p.m.
Meet some of Oklahoma’s best local beef producers! If you would like to sample and vote on your favorite, wristbands are $25 (kids ages 5 and under are free). The proceeds benefit the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation.
Rodeo Cinema
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. FREE cartoons
Stockyards City Main Street hopes you have a great time at the Stockyards Stampede! Stick around after the Stampede for more fun in and around the district! Visit the Stockyards City restaurants and shops.
Interested in becoming a sponsor for this iconic event? Contact Stockyards City Main Street, 405-235-7267 or email office@stockyardscity.org for more details.
Ean Kempmeyer has had a longstanding professional relationship with Ryan Richardson, a prominent business owner in Stockyards City, through their mutual connection, Brent Quintero. Brent, who is not only a Pitmaster but also a skilled master craftsman, has collaborated with Ryan on numerous projects over the years. When the idea of expanding their business was discussed, Ean, along with Brent and Jared—another business partner and Pitmaster—considered several potential locations for a new venture. Ultimately, the opportunity to open a restaurant in Stockyards City presented itself as a more viable option than launching a food truck, leading them to pursue this promising avenue.
“In less than a year, we’ve opened our second location, kind of 2.5, but sort of our third if you count the Sale Barn,” Ean shares. “The Sale Barn isn’t a full-blown restaurant but still requires 3-4 people to run it every Monday and Tuesday. Initially, it wasn’t part of our immediate plans, but when the opportunity came, we embraced it. We thrive on challenges, and here we are.”
Since January 2024, Oklahoma Smoke BBQ has experienced significant growth, largely driven by social media and the support of local food enthusiasts and influencers. “We’ve built strong connections with the community, and our story, combined with great food, resonates with people,” Ean adds.
Oklahoma Smoke BBQ prides itself on its unique platters, particularly the Pitmasters Platter. “It’s essentially a $100 dish that includes 6-7 meats, an array of sides, and it’s served on a platter as large as a dinner booth table,” says Jared. While there’s no food challenge associated with the platter yet, the team is considering it for the future. “We love adding random items to the platter, like rubber duckies, leftover donuts, or even a bowl of Captain Crunch. It’s all about having fun and offering a unique experience.”
Jared, a fan of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” (DDD), hopes to see Oklahoma Smoke BBQStockyards City featured on the show one day. “I love cooking and being creative with food. Sometimes, we work 36-hour days to keep things running, which makes our WednesdayThursday closures essential for recovery.”
The new location in Stockyards City offers diverse dining options, including outdoor seating for up to 42 people and a 25-person banquet room for private events. “We have an atrium for social mixers and a private entrance to the banquet room for those who prefer a more secluded dining experience,” Jered explains.
Open from Friday to Tuesday, 6 am to 8 pm, the restaurant offers a traditional breakfast with a BBQ twist. “One of our fun breakfast items is ‘Sunrise on a Border Town,’ which includes brisket, eggs, rice, and beans,” says Ean. The lunch and dinner menus feature a variety of items, including a Backdoor menu with burgers, sandwiches, a salad bar, and a kids’ menu. Once they obtain their liquor license, they plan to introduce a Bloody Mary bar for Sunday brunches and a full-service bar with craft cocktails, wine, beer, and signature drinks.
“We love the diner feel and the unique experience we offer. Our social media following is already impressive, and we believe that our craft cocktails and distinctive food will make us a destination spot,” Jared enthuses. Ean adds, “Being housed inside the Oklahoma National Stockyards Livestock Exchange Building, we want to incorporate that history and atmosphere into everything we do. We love having fun with our food and sharing that joy with our customers.”
With their passion for food and community, Oklahoma Smoke BBQ is poised to become a staple in Stockyards City, offering a unique and enjoyable dining experience. Find us on Facebook: @OklahomaSMOKE
Oklahoma Smoke BBQStockyards City
2501 Exchange Ave #110 Oklahoma City, OK 73108 (405) 673-7218
Open Friday - Tuesday 6 am to 8 pm
Business Partners: Ean Kempmeyer, Brent Quintero & Jared Hunter
Pitmaster Platter
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
Experience the Ultimate Thrill at Stockyards City Haunted Warehouse in Oklahoma City!
BY: Sunny Martinez
Prepare for an unforgettable night of spine-tingling scares and supernatural encounters at one of Stockyards City’s most haunted destinations: the Stockyards City Haunted Warehouse. Located at the historic site at 2412 SW 14th St., Oklahoma City, this massive warehouse, owned by Cindy Fleming’s husband for over 40 years, has been transformed into a chilling attraction where the spirits of the past come alive.
Cindy Fleming always felt the warehouses were haunted. “Off and on over the years, I would mention to him that we should open a haunted house in the warehouse because I feel like they are haunted. It is scary back there. I would never walk back through there by myself,” she shared. Now, with her husband’s blessing, Cindy’s haunting vision has become a reality with the help of her brother, Clay Bothroyd.
The Stockyards City Haunted Warehouse is not just any haunted house. It is an interactive experience featuring 10 separate rooms, each with its own
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
terrifying theme. Spanning approximately 9,000 square feet, visitors will navigate through “10 Realms of Hell,” encountering spectral hands, unsettling whispers of the forgotten, and flickering apparitions that haunt every corner.
The haunted warehouse opens its doors on September 27 and will run through November 2. It will be open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7 PM to midnight, and on Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM. Unique to this haunted destination, the lack of windows allows it to operate during daylight hours, setting it apart from other haunted attractions.
Tickets are priced at $25 per person. For those who wish to skip the line, a Fast Pass is available for $45. Due to the intense nature of the experience, the haunted warehouse is only open to those aged 14 and older.
To complement the chilling experience, food trucks will be on site, providing a variety of treats and refreshments.
Dare to enter the Stockyards City Haunted Warehouse and immerse yourself in the ultimate thrill. Step into the eerie corridors where restless spirits roam, but whatever you do, **DO NOT CLOSE YOUR EYES!**
Experience the fright of your life at the Stockyards City Haunted Warehouse this Halloween season. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website https://stockyardscityhauntedwarehouse.com
The Stockyards City Haunted Warehouse opens its doors on Sept. 27 and will run through Nov. 2. It will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7 pm to midnight Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm.
Interview
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OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
with Alice Wells: Remembering Jack J. Wells, the Western Artist & Creator of the Stockyards City Archway
BY: Sunny Martinez
In the heart of Stockyards City, the legacy of Jack J. Wells lives on through his art, which has become an indelible part of the community’s identity. In this interview, Alice Wells shares memories of her late husband, Jack J. Wells, a celebrated Western artist whose work has adorned local landmarks and captured the spirit of the Western lifestyle.
Jack’s First Gallery and Early Works
“Jack’s first gallery was at 2225 Exchange Ave., and he opened it in September of 1980,” Alice recalls. This marked the beginning of a prolific career that saw Jack contributing to the artistic landscape of the region. Among his early works was a pencil drawing that hung in Langston’s for many years, though Alice isn’t sure if it still remains there today. Jack also created a Rodeo series of t-shirts for Langston’s, which were sold for quite a long time.
“In 1981, he began the pencil drawings that are still hanging at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse,” Alice continues. “He also did a mural in Cattlemen’s event center in 1995, depicting Todd’s Livery Stable. Just outside Cattleman’s, there’s a paver with his brand.”
Jack’s art reached far and wide, from Stock Shows and Rodeos to the Quarter Horse Congress and National Finals. He became a fixture in the Western art community, often returning to his roots by setting up his painting station in the front window of National Saddlery, owned by John and Donna K Rule, after closing his gallery due to extensive travel. “We opened our second gallery on July 1st, 2005,” Alice adds. “It was the smallest shop in Stockyards City.”
Jack’s Journey to Becoming a Western Artist
Jack Wells was born into a life steeped in Western
culture. “He was raised on a horse ranch; his dad was a horse farrier, so that was Jack’s way of life,” Alice explains. The Wells family was deeply involved in the Oklahoma City Roundup Club, attending many rodeos and playdays. Jack himself was an accomplished roper, and one of his proudest achievements was beating Kenny Call, the 1978 World Champion Steer Roper, in steer roping.
Though born in Weatherford, Oklahoma, Jack and his family lived in various towns during his upbringing, with one of the longest periods spent in Edmond. “Their pasture is now a school and housing addition,” Alice notes, reflecting on the passage of time.
Jack’s talent for art was evident from an early age. He and his older brother, Justin Wells, were both naturally gifted. “It was a natural thing,” Alice says. “The competition between the brothers kept that going.” Alice still has drawings from both Jack and Justin, dating back to when they were just three years old. “It was pretty amazing. Their mom would bring home butcher paper from work to tape to the wall so the boys wouldn’t draw on the house walls. Imagine two brothers, a year apart, growing up together and eventually becoming a western artist because they loved drawing on walls.”
Jack’s artistic ability was a gift he nurtured throughout his life. “He and his brother used to draw their own comic books in Junior High and High School,” Alice recalls. “They were always drawing something, in between rodeoing.”
The Creation of the Stockyards City Archway
One of Jack’s most enduring contributions to Stockyards City is the iconic archway that welcomes visitors to the area. “When Jack had his first gallery, there was a Merchants Council, similar to Stockyards City Main Street today,” Alice explains. “They would bat around ideas to improve the area, and the idea of having something at the entrance off the highway, like the entrance to the Stockyards, came up.”
The concept was conceived in the 1980s but remained dormant until the Stockyards City
Centennial anniversary approached. “Even though it still took many years to get it built, it was thanks to Matt Brown and Ainslie Stanford that it finally came to fruition. They were the ones who pushed it through all the necessary hurdles,” Alice says.
Jack Wells’ contributions to Stockyards City and the broader Western art community are numerous and lasting. His art continues to inspire and evoke the rugged beauty of the Western lifestyle. Keep up on future stories of Jack Wells, where we’ll delve into other contributions Jack had in and around Stockyards City.
Jack J. Wells
One of Jack Wells’s early renderings of Stockyards City Archway
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
Federal Grant Spurs Revitalization Plans for Will Rogers Courts and Stockyards Neighborhood
BY: Banery Mujica-Ortiz
Oklahoma City, alongside the Oklahoma City Housing Authority, has secured Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to develop a revitalization plan for Will Rogers Courts and the surrounding Stockyards neighborhood. This initial grant sets the stage for a future implementation grant application, crucial for bringing these plans to life.
Community engagement is at the heart of this initiative, with three workshops already held involving residents of Will Rogers Courts and the Stockyards neighborhood. These workshops have been essential in gathering resident input and ensuring the plan reflects their needs and aspirations.
A key part of this process is the community survey, which residents are strongly encouraged to complete. This survey collects vital feedback to shape an inclusive and representative plan.
The next workshop is scheduled for September 2024, providing another opportunity for residents to actively participate and share their ideas. This collaborative approach ensures the community’s voice is heard and valued.
This grant and the subsequent planning are just the first steps in a transformative journey for Will Rogers Courts and the Stockyards neighborhood, paving the way for significant, positive change.
Use the QR Code to participate in the survey:
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OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
ULI Oklahoma to create a Pop-Up Park and you can HELP! Here’s how:
Join ULI Oklahoma as we transform a corner parcel in Stockyards City to create a Pop-Up Park. This collaborative placemaking project will coincide with the district’s Annual Stockyards Stampede on October 19th.
This project is modeled after other tactical urbanism initiatives around the country, aiming to revitalize communities through innovative urban design. Tactical urbanism is known for shortterm placemaking projects that utilize lighter, quicker, and cheaper methods to activate and enhance underutilized or neglected space within a community. These projects often involve temporary installations, pop-up shops, street furniture, art installations, and community events to transform spaces into vibrant, inviting areas that foster community engagement and economic vitality.
This project is made possible by the Young Leaders Group of ULI Oklahoma and a generous community sponsor, The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Stockyards City Main Street to host Executive Director’s Training
Stockyards City will be the location for the Oklahoma Main Street Center’s Executive Director training October 8th through 10th. Directors from communities across the state will be visiting and experiencing the district. Stockyards City Main Street has been in the program since 1992. It was the first Urban Main Street Program in the State of Oklahoma and is the only National Accredited program in Oklahoma City.
The Main Street program encourages economic development in Oklahoma communities and neighborhood districts statewide. By refocusing efforts to bring vibrancy back to a commercial district, the local program can find the self-reliance and empowerment needed to sustain a commercial district and increase the quality of life for residents.
Since 1986, Oklahoma Main Street programs have generated more than $2.2 billion in total public and private reinvestment, created 21,600 new jobs and helped in the development of nearly 9,000 new or expanded small businesses.
“Bridge
Celebration Has Them In Whirl”, Oklahoma Times, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, July 31, 1953
The photograph above was taken by Richard Green and was used for a story in the Oklahoma Times newspaper on July 31, 1953. Caption: “Getting in a few early twirls Friday on the new Agnew avenue bridge were four husband-wife couples of the Silver Spur square dance club.”
To view this image online or see other historcial facts about this picture you can visit: https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/ metadc1288339/?q=%22agnew%22
Oklahoma Historical Society https://www.okhistory.org
If you see any of these visitors, please give them a hearty Stockyards City welcome!
Photo taken by Richard Green and published July 31, 1953 in the Oklahoma Times
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Did You Know?
Rodeo Cinema is OKC’s only not-for-profit independent cinema.
Rodeo Cinema is OKC’s only not-for-profit independent cinema. Across both of their historic locations, they have one mission: maintaining a space focused on conserving our cultural heritage and creating communal experiences through film, art, and live entertainment.
They show everything from Westerns you love to International documentaries you’ve never heard of, with a focus on movies you may not find anywhere else. They consider themselves a pillar of the local film community and offer cheaper prices than any other theater in the Oklahoma City Metro area. The theater is open 7 days a week, including most holidays! Rodeo Cinema is available for rentals for private events like birthday parties, work conferences and more.
Why not go by and see them? Sit back, relax and enjoy a theater experience you won’t be able to find anywhere else–because nobody else does it quite like they do.
What is happening during the Stockyards Stampede at Rodeo Cinema?
Stop by Rodeo Cinema, across from Langston’s, during the Stockyards Stampede for FREE cartoons, half-priced popcorn and other concessions discounts from 10 am - 2 pm, Saturday, October 19.
Save the Date! Sept. 15, 2024
How can you help? So glad you asked!
1. Buy tickets for you and your friends, and have fun while helping a good cause.
2. Share this article with anyone in your network who might be interested in this event.
3. We need donations to help fill our raffle prize baskets. Cash, gift cards, event tickets, services, everything will help!
4. Start thinking about participating in the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day parade, either as a volunteer or a float entrant!
Questions? Comments? Ready to lend your time and talents? Call Jacquelynn Egan Hoover at 405-519-3774 or email: jacque.hoover@yahoo.com
St. Patrick’s Day is 7 months away, but no need to fret because an Irish celebration is close at hand!
The O’klahoma Irish Heritage Society will host its second annual fundraiser to benefit the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in historic Stockyards City. The 2024 parade was a smashing success, but we want to make it better and better with each passing year. Help us support this nationally recognized event by going to the movies!
Who: You, your mates, and the O’klahoma Irish Heritage Society!
What: A screening of the classic Irish film, “Waking Ned Devine,” including raffle prizes and Irish whiskey tasting.
When: Sunday, September 15, 2024. Show starts at 3 p.m. (but come early for the fun!)
Where: Rodeo Cinema, 2221 Exchange Ave., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73108
Why: To raise funds in support of the Stockyards City 2025 St. Patrick’s Parade, set for March 15, 2025 at 10 a.m.
Thank you for supporting the O’klahoma Irish Heritage Society.
Interested in becoming a sponsor for the 2025 St. Patrick’s Parade? Applications to enter the Parade will be open starting November 1, 2024. Contact Stockyards City Main Street, 405-235-7267 or email office@stockyardscity.org for more details.
Meet Bear: The Furry, Protective Employee at J&J Commission!
Bear, the beloved Morki (a Maltese-Yorkie mix), has been a treasured member of the Eaton family for seven years—and an honorary employee at J&J Commission. Every Monday and Tuesday, Bear knows it’s time to head into work with his mom, Sheila Eaton, and you can bet he’s ready to greet the customers.
While Bear may look adorable lounging under Sheila’s desk in his cozy bed, don’t be fooled! He’s got a protective side, especially when it comes to his momma. Get too close to the desk, and you might hear a little growl or see a quick protective snip. But don’t worry—Bear is also quite the social pup. He always comes out to greet customers and make sure everything’s in order. After all, every office needs a little watchdog, right?
So, if you ever stop by J&J Commission, say hello to Bear! Just don’t crowd the desk—he’s got a job to do!
STOCKYARDS CITY TIMES
OKLAHOMA’S HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CITY
Mark your calenders for Stockyards City Main Street Upcoming Events!
Friday, November 22, 2024
6 pm to 7 pm
Stockyards City Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 10 am Cowboy Christmas Parade
Interested in becoming a part of this iconic event? Contact Stockyards City Main Street office at 405-235-7267 or email office@stockyardscity.org for more details.
BY: Stacy Harris
September Is Library Card Sign Up Month at Wright Library!
Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to encourage individuals to get a library card. During the month, libraries unite in a national effort to ensure everyone signs up for their own library card.
With a Metropolitan Library System card, you have access to:
• Over 1.5 million items available for checkout and download – including books, music CDs, TV and film DVDs, magazines, and more!
• The ability to download and stream your favorite eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, TV shows, music, magazines, and more.
• Access to numerous databases, online learning resources, and research tools.
• Library computers or technology that you can check out for home use.
• Borrow Garden tools, Discovery Backpacks, Museum Passes, and more.
• Library by Mail and Outreach Services in the community.
• Easy registration for programs and events at any of our 19 locations.
• Assistance in the exploration of your interests based on life stages or topics.
Are you ready to get your all-access pass to all the services your library offers? A Metropolitan Library Card is free for people who live in or own property in Oklahoma City or Oklahoma County! Individuals 17 and older who meet eligibility requirements may apply for an account, while those under 17 can apply with the consent of a parent or guardian. Help us celebrate this special month by encouraging your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, or even a new acquaintance to get a library card.
Upcoming Events at Wright Library!
Coffee for the Community
Dates: Saturdays, September 7 and October 5
Time: 9:00am – 11:30am
Details: Enjoy free coffee at the historic Wright Library or take a cup to go. While you’re here, check out available materials, get a library card, or use our computers and free Wi-Fi. Coffee for the Community is held monthly on the first Saturday.
Goodwill Mobile Employment Services Center
Date: Tuesday, October 1
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Details: The Goodwill Mobile Employment Services Center will be at Wright Library to assist job seekers with job searches, online applications, and resume writing. No pre-reservation required.
Or if you prefer, unleash your creativity and curiosity with our versatile take-home kits! Perfect for families or individuals, these kits offer a range of engaging activities for all ages. Each kit includes materials and easy-to-follow instructions, making it simple to dive into a world of discovery and creativity from the comfort of your home. Register online at www.metrolibrary.org/events to reserve STEAM-tastic Surprise Take Home Kits available in September and October, and the Halloween Family Fun Kit available in October.
And don’t forget to check out the Metro Library booth at the Kids Corral at the Stockyards Stampede on Saturday, October 19th. It will be a rip-roaring good time!
