It wasn’t that long ago that Chickasha was the one traveling to other towns to see what was working. We were studying how they grew their downtowns, recruited industry, and created momentum. Today, that script has flipped. Chickasha is now welcoming other communities for visits. Recently, we’ve had emails and calls from communities like Hobart, Atoka, Weatherford, and Comanche, all wanting to learn what’s happening here. They see the new retail chains choosing Chickasha, the growing energy around our downtown, the progress at the Airport Industrial Park, and the collaboration between our public and private sectors. They’re asking, “How are you doing it?” And that’s something we can all take pride in. Because what’s happening in Chickasha isn’t the result of one program, one business, or one person — it’s the collective effort of an entire community choosing to move forward together. From City Hall to Main Street, from our business leaders to everyday residents who support local events and shops, Chickasha is showing what can happen when people believe in their town. Success builds on success and others are noticing. We have had visits from all the leading Governor and Lt. Governor candidates that are seeking election next year. They are interested in what we are doing and how can they connect with our leaders. Despite our recent success, we have so many things to work on, so many areas we need to get better. We are making significant progress, but still have so much to do. It’s rewarding when other towns look to Chickasha for inspiration, but we can’t lose the momentum we currently have. Having other towns respect what we are doing, that’s not just good news for us, it’s proof that progress is contagious. We’re not just growing; we’re leading by example. And that’s #TheGoodStuff.

If you’ve been driving around Chickasha lately, you’ve probably noticed something — progress is in the air, and it’s showing up in every corner of our Community. From smoother roads to big investments in our future, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet for the City of Chickasha. Let’s start with something everyone can appreciate: better streets. The City of Chickasha has been hard at work repaving and improving roads all across town. These infrastructure upgrades not only make daily commutes safer and smoother, but they also signal to residents and visitors alike that Chickasha is a Community investing in itself. Good roads lead to good impressions and that’s exactly what we want people to experience when they come to our town. Another major step forward is the City’s ongoing work to secure bids for a new water treatment plant. This is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in decades — an investment that will ensure clean, reliable water for homes, businesses, and future growth. It’s a project that’s not just about today, but about building a foundation for tomorrow. Economic development is also seeing tremendous momentum because the City has been working closely with the EDC and developer Chet Hitt to recruit new businesses to the Chickasha Airport Industrial Park. These partnerships are already paying off, with new companies taking notice of Chickasha’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment. Every new manufacturer or employer that chooses Chickasha adds strength to our local economy and opportunity for our citizens. Don’t forget about those major Retail announcements a couple of months ago, can’t wait to see them start opening at the end of 2026. But it’s not all hard hats and infrastructure. Chickasha continues to shine when it comes to Community spirit and celebration. The City is once again a major sponsor of two of our most beloved events: the Oklahoma Food Truck Championship and the Festival of Light. These events attract thousands of visitors each year and showcase the best of who we are, creative, welcoming, and full of small-town charm with big-time heart. From economic development to Community engagement, it’s clear the City of Chickasha is moving in the right direction. These aren’t just projects or sponsorships — they’re investments in people, in pride, and in progress. Thank you to the Mayor, City Council our City Manager and all the City staff! #TheGoodStuff is happening all around us. Let’s take time to appreciate it, because it hasn’t always been that way. Chickasha is shining brighter than ever because when we all work together, great things happen. Right now… Chickasha is proving that momentum builds success!

Last week, several Chickasha business leaders joined developer Chet Hitt, the City of Chickasha, and the Chickasha Economic Development Council, on a recruitment trip to Los Angeles. Together, we met with manufacturers who are exploring relocation opportunities in states where it’s easier and more affordable to grow — and we want them to know that Chickasha, Oklahoma, is open for business. Trips like this are powerful reminders that economic development doesn’t happen in a silo. It takes everyone—from business owners and city officials to developers, educators, and residents—to create the kind of community where companies want to invest. It also never hurts to have the Governor of Oklahoma endorsing our efforts! When we talk with potential employers, we’re not just selling land or buildings. We’re selling a Community—one that works together, supports each other, and believes in its future. That unity and collaboration are what make Chickasha stand out from other communities our size. Building relationships with new employers takes time and persistence. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but every meeting, every handshake, and every shared story brings us one step closer. The work our team did in Los Angeles area this past week was planting seeds that will grow into new jobs, new opportunities, and new energy for Chickasha. I’m proud of how far our community has come. We’ve seen firsthand how collaboration—between the City, EDC, local developers, and business leaders—has already led to exciting announcements and growth at the Chickasha Airport Industrial Park. That same teamwork is what will continue to move Chickasha forward. So, as we reach out to companies across the country, we carry with us the spirit of our hometown: hardworking, welcoming, and determined. Economic development is not just a job for one department or one person—it’s a community mission. And when Chickasha works together, success is not just possible—it’s inevitable and that’s # TheGoodStuff. 

One of the most exciting parts of my job is seeing the momentum that Chickasha continues to build. Over the past year, our Community has been putting itself on the map in ways that are catching attention far beyond Oklahoma’s borders. Most recently, the Chickasha Economic Development Council (EDC), along with Chet Hitt, owner of the Chickasha Airport Industrial Park, has been working hard to recruit manufacturers straight out of California. But before we could head to California, Chet got confirmation that KnightTek signed a contract to be the first in the park and they are expecting to employ around 50 people. This week a group of Chickasha businesses will join the EDC and Chet Hitt in downtown LA for a recruiting event. The Oklahoma Department of Commerce and Governor Stitt will join us as we anwer the question: Why Chickasha? So why are we recruiting California? Simply put—manufacturers are looking for a better way forward. The Golden State has long been a hub for industry, but rising costs, burdensome regulations, and a sky-high cost of living are making it harder for businesses to thrive there. Oklahoma offers something different. Here in Chickasha, we can confidently say we’re a more affordable, business-friendly alternative. Consider just a few economic factors: Lower cost of living: Oklahoma consistently ranks among the most affordable states in the country. From groceries to healthcare, dollars stretch further here. Lower home prices: While California’s median home price is well over $700,000, families in Chickasha can still find quality homes for a fraction of that cost. That means employees relocating here have the chance at home ownership—a dream that feels out of reach for many on the West Coast. Lower energy prices: Businesses that rely heavily on energy consumption see immediate savings in Oklahoma, where utility costs are far below California’s. A business-friendly environment: With fewer regulations and a pro-growth mindset, Oklahoma leaders at every level are committed to supporting job creators. Chickasha is well-positioned to welcome these manufacturers. The Airport Industrial Park, with Chet Hitt’s vision and investment, offers a ready home for companies that want to expand, relocate, and succeed. It’s not just about moving factories—it’s about creating good-paying jobs, strengthening our tax base, and building a brighter future for our community. So when we say, California, here we come!—we mean it. We’re ready to show manufacturers that in Chickasha, opportunity isn’t just a slogan. It’s real, it’s here, and it’s growing every day and that’s #TheGoodStuff!

One of the best things about living in Chickasha is the pride we take in our Community. Over the last year, we’ve seen tremendous growth—new businesses opening, new opportunities created, and more people discovering what makes our town so special. But here’s the truth: for our local businesses to thrive, they need us. That’s why “Love Where You Live” is more than just a slogan. I love that Rick Johnston’s marquee at 4 th and Minnesota avenue still displays this message. I’m pretty sure it the same logo we created back in 2020 during Covid. It’s a reminder that every time we choose to shop, dine, or do business locally, we’re investing in Chickasha’s future. We’re keeping dollars in our community, creating jobs for our neighbors, and supporting the very people who cheer beside us at Friday night football games or sit next to us at Church. This weekend is a perfect chance to put that spirit into action. As the Oklahoma Food Truck Championship rolls into downtown on Saturday, thousands of people from all across the state will be here to sample incredible food and experience Chickasha hospitality. For those of us who already call Chickasha home, let’s show them how we “love where we live.” When you come downtown for the Food Truck Championship and the Rock  Island Arts Festival, don’t just stop at your favorite food truck—take a stroll down Chickasha Avenue. Pop into our boutique shops, say hello to the store owners, and pick up something special. Whether it’s a gift, a piece of art, or a new outfit, you’ll not only find something unique, you’ll be making a difference for a local business owner who’s invested in our community. Chickasha’s growth is exciting, but sustaining that growth takes all of us. So, let’s support the businesses that are here now, welcome the new ones that are arriving, and continue building a Community where people truly love where they live. That’s #TheGoodStuff.

When people across the nation talk about the “cost of doing business,” they’re usually talking about the expenses that make or break a company’s decision to grow, invest, or relocate. Everything from energy costs and taxes, to workforce, land, and real estate plays a role. Recently, Oklahoma earned national recognition as having the lowest cost of doing business in the United States —a distinction that carries big implications for our communities, especially right here in Chickasha. This ranking matters because companies are constantly looking for the best place to stretch their dollars. Whether it’s a manufacturer deciding where to expand operations, a tech company considering new offices, or a small business looking for a community to thrive, the bottom line matters. And right now, Oklahoma’s bottom line looks very attractive. For Chickasha, this recognition adds momentum to what we’ve already been seeing. Our Community has been steadily investing in infrastructure, workforce development, and quality-of-life improvements. Combine that with the fact that Oklahoma leads the way in affordability for businesses, and you have a recipe for growth. Businesses can build here with lower costs, and families can enjoy a lower cost of living—making it a win-win. But this isn’t just about dollars and cents. When Oklahoma is spotlighted as the nation’s most business-friendly state from a cost perspective, it means opportunity for our people. It means new jobs, new investment, and a stronger tax base that supports schools, roads, and services. It means young people might find more reasons to stay close to home because opportunities are being created right here. We should be proud of this recognition, but we should also see it as a challenge. Chickasha has the land, the workforce, and the community spirit to take advantage of this moment. One of our biggest strengths is that we work together—city leaders, businesses, schools, and citizens—to make sure Chickasha is at the front of the line when new opportunities come calling! The good news is we’re already moving in the right direction. From industrial park development to small business support, Chickasha is proving it can compete. And now, with Oklahoma recognized nationally as the lowest-cost state to do business, the world is taking notice. That’s not just good news—that’s #TheGoodStuff.

In every thriving community, there are cornerstones that help hold it all together. For Chickasha, one of those pillars is the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce. It’s easy to see the ribbon cuttings, luncheons, and annual banquet and think the Chamber is just about events. But the truth is, its impact runs much deeper—and that’s why being a member and supporter matters. Let me acknowledge that I am the President of the Chickasha Chamber of Commerce, but even before my current position, I have been a big believer of Chambers and all they do for their Communities! The Chamber is our Community advocate. Whether it’s working with city leaders on economic growth, pushing for legislation that helps local businesses, or connecting entrepreneurs with resources, the Chamber is a voice for the people who power our local economy. When you join, you’re not just paying dues—you’re investing in a team that fights for your success. It’s also about connection. The Chamber brings people together—business owners, educators, civic leaders, and volunteers. That network creates opportunities for collaboration and growth. A small business owner may meet their next big client at a Chamber event. A newcomer to town might find a mentor, a friend, or even their first Chickasha customer through a Chamber introduction.  And let’s not forget visibility. In today’s crowded marketplace, being a Chamber member sets you apart. It tells people you’re committed to this community, that you believe in shopping local, hiring local, and supporting local. Chickasha residents notice who shows up—and the Chamber gives you a platform to shine. But maybe most importantly, supporting the Chamber is about hometown pride. It’s about investing in the future of Chickasha, making sure our kids and grandkids inherit a community that is thriving, welcoming, and full of opportunity. When we support the Chamber, we’re supporting each other, it’s really that simple! So, if you’re not a member yet, consider joining. If you are, thank you. Keep showing up, keep engaging, keep believing in Chickasha. Because together, with the Chamber leading the charge, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish and show everyone #TheGoodStuff!

When you look ahead to 2026, one word keeps coming up for Oklahoma: Travel. It’s not just that tourism is big business—it’s that next year may be the biggest year in the history of Oklahoma tourism. Between the Route 66 Centennial celebrations, the FIFA World Cup bringing global fans through our state, the 250 th birthday of America and a growing national spotlight on small-town charm, we are preparing for more visitors than ever before. That’s good news for Chickasha, because while travelers will come for the major events, what they’ll remember are the authentic experiences—the things you can’t get anywhere else. That’s where treasures like the Chief Drive-In Theater shine. We all know that the Chickasha Leg Lamp will draw thousands of road side attraction fans, but don’t forget that our Drive-In is one of only four in the entire state and the only one open year around. The Chief has been lighting up the Oklahoma night sky since 1949. Generations of families have rolled down their windows, tuned in their radios, and made memories under the stars. I recently celebrated my 41 st wedding anniversary – my wife and I’s first date was there. In 2026 it has the chance to be a centerpiece for Route 66 tourists looking for that classic Americana feel. Imagine a family from Germany driving Route 66 for the first time, stopping in Chickasha at J&W Grill or Jake’s and ending their night watching a movie at the Chief. Or soccer fans from Mexico City or Toronto detouring through Oklahoma after the World Cup, catching a double-feature. Those stories—and the dollars they bring with them—are what tourism is all about. Travel tourism isn’t just a statistic. It means hotels filled, restaurants busy, gas stations humming, and shops seeing new faces. More importantly, it means our Community being discovered and appreciated. Chickasha has always been known for its hospitality, and 2026 is our chance to prove it on the biggest stage yet. So when you think about the importance of travel tourism in 2026, remember the Chief Drive-In. It’s not just a movie theater. It’s a time machine, a piece of living history, and one of the reasons visitors will fall in love with Chickasha Oklahoma and #TheGoodStuff!

It is officially back to school week, can you believe it? The temperatures outside make you think summer, but the calendar says it’s time for the kids to get back to school. The nonprofit “A Beautiful Day” will again organize volunteers to welcome kids at all Chickasha schools. This has become a new tradition that both volunteers and kids look forward to, even if some of the kids wouldn’t admit it. Another Chickasha school tradition will happen on October 3 rd when CHS celebrates Homecoming! So many of us alumni have great memories of homecoming activities, I know my classmates talk about it every class reunion or informal gathering we have. So much has changed over the years, but I am hoping we can address one change this year, but I need everyone’s help. Last year during the Homecoming Parade, there were no floats done by the students. I think each class had some representative riding on a trailer, but they weren’t floats. When I inquired about why, I was told that they needed help finding buildings to build each class float and they needed more adults to help supervise the students. That sounds like the definition of alumni to me. I have alumni groups confirmed for two of the four classes and one confirmed location to build the float, but the tradition of homecoming floats needs YOU! Are you a local business that has a building in the Downtown area where a float could be built September 28 th through Oct 3 rd ? Would your alumni class be willing to connect to today’s high school students and help them understand what Homecoming meant to you when you were in school? I have made the commitment to CHS to find alumni groups and float locations and we are off to a great start, but your help is needed. Email me at jim@chickashaedc.com or call me at 405-224-0787 and let me know if you can help. Traditions are so important to our Community so please help keep this one going. This is not just about the students that are at CHS today, but it’s about the definition of alumni and keeping our School Pride going. A Community that cares about the past and that are willing to keep traditions going, well of course that’s #TheGoodStuff!