If you’ve spent any time near the Leg Lamp in Downtown Chickasha, especially around the Welcome Center then you’ve probably met one of our community’s brightest ambassadors, Pamela Prather. Pamela owns The Crafty Queen, the charming gift shop nestled right next door, and she brings a whole new meaning to the phrase “shop local.” Walk inside and you’ll find shelves full of uniquely Chickasha treasures: hometown apparel, clever souvenirs, handmade gifts, and one-of-a-kind pieces that help tell our story. Pamela has an eye for fun, a knack for creativity, and a love for all things Chickasha. She even carries officially licensed A Christmas Story merchandise! Yes, the real deal. If you've ever wanted your own piece of the movie magic that made our giant Leg Lamp famous, The Crafty Queen is the place to find it. But here’s the truth, while Pamela sells merchandise, what she really sells is Chickasha. With every visitor who walks through her door, from across town or across the globe, Pamela shares the heart of this Community. She talks about our Festival of Light, our growing downtown, our restaurants, our small businesses, and the people who make this place special. She gives directions, offers recommendations, answers questions, and makes every guest feel like they just met their first Chickasha friend. In a world where hospitality can sometimes feel rushed or overlooked, Pamela takes the time to create genuine moments. Her shop isn’t just a retail space; it’s a welcome wagon, an information booth, a storytelling center, and a warm handshake all wrapped into one. And for Chickasha, that matters! When visitors leave with a good impression, they feel seen, appreciated, and cared for they come back. They tell others. They become part of our story. And that’s because of people like Pamela, who show every day that community pride can be contagious. So the next time you’re downtown, stop by The Crafty Queen. Browse the great merchandise, but also take a moment to appreciate the woman behind the counter who champions Chickasha with every smile and every conversation. Pamela isn’t just running a business, she’s lifting up a Community, and that’s The Good Stuff !

This Thursday, Chickasha gets something truly special… a moment just for us. Before the Festival of Light officially opens for the season and before thousands of visitors stream into our community, we celebrate Locals Night . It’s the one evening each year when the Shannon Springs Park lights belong entirely to the people who call this place home. There’s nothing quite like seeing the Festival of Light without the steady flow of car traffic. Locals Night lets you experience the magic in a way that feels intimate and personal as you walk hand-in-hand with friends, strolling beside families you know from school or church, or even hopping on a bike and cruising under millions of lights. It feels like Chickasha at its best: relaxed, joyful, and connected. In many ways, this night sets the tone for the entire season. It reminds us that before the festival becomes a multi-state attraction that draws crowds from every direction, it starts with Community. Hundreds of volunteers put their hearts into building this wonderland and Thursday is our chance to soak it in together, to appreciate the work of so many volunteers and to enjoy a peaceful evening before the busy weekends ahead. And while you’re enjoying the night, don’t forget to help Chickasha shine even brighter. The Festival of Light is once again in the running for Best Holiday Light Display in the USA and your online vote can help us reach the #1 spot. It’s an easy way to show some hometown pride — and it brings even more attention to the businesses, restaurants, and shops that rely on this season. So gather your neighbors, grab your walking shoes or your bike, and come enjoy the quiet magic of Locals Night. Before the excitement truly begins, we get a night just for ourselves, a reminder of why this Community is so special. Go enjoy #TheGoodStuff!