lawtonspring2026

1 hometown living at its best @PamandBarrysTeam pamandbarrysteam 3908 NW Elm Ave., Suite 200 Lawton, OK 73505 Call us to SELL YOUR HOME FAST & FOR TOP DOLLAR! PAMandBARRY.com If your home is currently listed, this is not an attempt to secure a listing. Each office is independently owned and operated. *Reflects both listing and sales sides. *In medium sized teams category. *In medium sized teams category. Whether you are Buying or Selling, put your trust in our team’s proven results. PAMandBARRY.com | 580.248.8800 FREE & INSTANT HOME VALUE Over 24 Years and Over 13,000 HOMES SOLD!

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www.furrhcpa.com YOUR PEACE OF MIND IS OUR BUSINESS Tax Preparation Accounting Bookkeeping Coaching Audi t ing Payrol l Comprehensive Strategies Maximize Investments Expert Prompt Support Cost Reduction Strategies Guidance and Ethical Practice Tailored Solutions for Small Business 3 hometown living at its best

4 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Contents On the Cover 10 HIS NAME IS JESUS Local churches lead the way in praying for unity. 20 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Starlight Gala 26 ALL RISE For over 30 years, Teen Court has helped Comanche County youth rise up, correct course and avoid lives serving time by serving the community. 32 HOMETOWN GRADUATES Celebrating the Class of 2026 38 SUNDAY ON THE MATS, SUNDAY IN THE WORD Balancing Church, Tournaments, and Keeping Jesus First 44 4-H SPOTLIGHT Cambree Holden 50 DESIGN, SERVICE & LEGACY For 50 years Brady’s Design Center has helped Lawton residents make a house a home. 58 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Random Acts of Kindness 62 FROM THE BATTLEFIELD TO THE BANDSTAND Lawton resident and Army veteran George Keck has a lifetime of stories to tell and wisdom to impart, proving that a spirited, frank musician can lead with both strength and compassion. 70 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Empty Bowls Fundraiser 76 SET IN STONE ON A FIRM FOUNDATION The rock formations of the Wichita Mountains are home to the Holy City, a century-old Oklahoma landmark planning for the Next Hundred Years. 84 ROOTS RUN DEEP Collyns Hale is growing her leadership skills and family legacy in agriculture through FFA. 32 38 62 76

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6 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Lawton Living Magazine© is published bi-annually by Hometown Media Group hometownmedia.group 502 N Main Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED IN THE USA All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice. I don’t claim to have a green thumb, but I do enjoy working in the yard. There are so many correlations to my faith found in the dirt like being diligent in keeping the weeds (sin) at bay to ensure they don’t take over. Sometimes they look deceptively pretty but if left to grow, they can have huge roots and be hard to get rid of. Thankfully, no sin root is too big, no wound too deep. Jesus has defeated my sin and yours and I am so grateful for His undeserved gift of grace. Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and hope, and it is our privilege to bring you local stories and features that reflect the beauty and promise symbolic of the season. Hometown Happenings in this issue highlight the success of the Starlight Gala and Lawton students collaborating for Empty Bowls and acts of kindness. What a powerful impact a community can have when coming together for a wonderful purpose! You’ll also find inspiring stories, including local churches coming together in Jesus’ name and the positive impact Teen Court is making on the next generation. We also celebrate the graduates of 2026 and pray for provision and guidance in their next steps. Thank you for being part of the Lawton Living community. We invite you to share your recommendations of people and organizations to showcase and join us in celebrating all that makes Lawton a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Here’s to an inspiring and joyful spring. May it have more flowers than weeds! Hello Lawton! WRITERS Sarah Caroline Blevins Kayla Durham Sabrina Forse Reanna Gonzalez Sara Hook Becca Nelson Sankey PHOTOGRAPHERS Debbie Duggar Visuals Rylee’s Photography Wild Oaks Photography ON THE COVER Photo by Debbie Duggar Visuals Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Lindsey Kruger Marketing & Client Relations lindsey@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Brooke Graham Social Media Editor Camela Dietrich Accounts Receivable accounting@hometownmedia.group Kayla Durham Sales Account Executive kayla@hometownmedia.group “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” - Colossians 2:6-7 Lindesy Kruger

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10 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by SABRINA FORSE | Photos provided by GRACE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH & FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, LAWTON Local churches lead the way in praying for unity. Jesus his name is

11 hometown living at its best A “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” – John 17: 20- 21 As the alarm clock rings on a Sunday morning, some will rise early, shower and search their closet for their finest apparel. Others will pull on a pair of faded jeans and a t-shirt as the message in their church is, ‘come as you are.’ Bands will gather with guitars and drums for a rousing round of worship music. At other churches, the song selection will offer more traditional hymns, perhaps with a choir. Others will choose to worship without music, using only their voices to lift their praises to the Lord. As the sermon begins, some will call their church leader, pastor. Others may use titles such as preacher or reverend. The heart of the message is typically the same with the focus on Jesus. “We have a sermon series once a year where we let members of the congregation ask questions and we preach about them in our sermons. One of the questions asked was, ‘Why are there so many denominations?’ Out of that research, we found there were over 40,000 Christian denominations,” said Josh Trueblood. Trueblood is the Lead Pastor at Grace Fellowship Church in Lawton. That sermon series inspired an idea that has thousands in Lawton embracing the phrase, “His name is Jesus.” The goal is to leave the division behind and focus on unity. “When Jesus was preparing the disciples for his departure from earth, he prayed what’s known as the High Priestly Prayer,” said Trueblood. “It’s in John 17, and he prays that all believers would be one just as He and the Father are one.” In 2024, Grace Fellowship Church decided to use a billboard to invite people to come to church on Easter Sunday, but not specifically to Grace Fellowship. Instead, Trueblood invited other church leaders in Lawton to be a part of a movement. “Mike Keahbone with First Baptist Church came to the meeting that day

12 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group and he had some statistics that showed that out of nearly 100,000 people in our area, 60,000 didn’t go to church at all. If all 100,000 people came to church on Easter, all the seats in all our churches could not hold them, so there is no reason to compete. We should come together,” said Trueblood. They decided to brand the campaign, His name is Jesus. Eight churches participated the first year, joining together in inviting everyone to church on Easter Sunday. “Easter is the climax of our faith. It’s when Jesus rose from the dead, overcame death and sin to give us a way to have eternal life. It’s also a time when people are typically more open to coming to church with their families, even if they don’t typically go to church,” said Mike Keahbone, Lead Pastor, First Baptist Church, Lawton-Fort Sill. “We decided that we would all preach the same message on Easter Sunday so that no matter which church people went to, they would be hearing the same message.”

13 hometown living at its best A website with a church directory and times was created along with t-shirts and yard signs to advertise the “His name is Jesus’ campaign.” “I think socially we talk about ice breakers and in this case, ice was shattered around the city. People had permission to talk about their faith in a relatively easy way,” said Trueblood. “We asked people to wear their shirts on the two Fridays leading up to Easter. My wife and I went to WalMart on one of those days and we stopped and spoke with everyone who had a shirt on and got to know them. It was awesome.” Local media and businesses have helped promote the campaign and spread the word. “A lot of church members own businesses in the city and generously donated signs or ad spaces. Wayne’s Drive-Inn put His name is Jesus stickers on all of their bags,” said Keahbone. This year marked the campaign’s third year with additional churches participating each year. “What’s really exciting is that it’s helped promote new churches. Last year, we had a soldier from Fort Sill who was led by God to start a church. He was still working full-time but wanted to launch a church called Praying Hands Ministry, and they participated. This year, we are supporting the launch of another new church called Dwell Church. It’s a great way to push them into the forefront of our city,” said Trueblood.

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15 hometown living at its best While the campaign itself may focus on inviting people to Easter Sunday, it has started to break down divisions throughout the area since its inception. “A lot of churches are a part of ministries like the Care Portal and food bank where we can donate and rally for donations to meet needs for our community. Through the relationships we’ve built, we are able to meet even greater needs,” said Keahbone. Those relationships helped raise more than $40,000 when a local church was forced to move to a new building within a short time. “I was also invited to preach at Grace Fellowship Church on a Sunday service and in the past that really wasn’t common for a pastor to give up his pulpit to another local pastor.” Youth groups from area churches are also gathering for various events. Following the example of Jesus who prayed for unity among his disciples, the church leaders involved with the His name is Jesus campaign pray for that same unity 365 days of the year. “People often ask me what I see as the vision for His name is Jesus and my focus is to keep it simple. Division is at the core of our culture. Division is how influencers and politicians define themselves and there is a real darkness in division that makes people hostile toward one another,” said Trueblood. “Church was supposed to be different, but the darkness of our culture has seeped into the church at times. Our vision is to reverse some of what our culture has done. We are crossing denomination and racial lines. Our culture has chosen division. We simply choose unity in our faith, our family, our tribes, and that’s enough.” † For more information, visit www.hisnameisjesus.com

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Kathy Hayden Financial Advisor Certified Military Financial Advisor | Franchise Owner 580.699.8101 1422 NW Sheridan Road, Lawton Kathleen.hayden@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/kathleen.hayden CA Insurance #0I43302 5 out of 5 Client Satisfaction Rating based on 41 reviews as of 9/22/2025: Each client has the opportunity to rate a practice based on the client’s overall satisfaction with the practice, on a scale of 1 to 5. The practice’s Client Satisfaction Rating is an average of all client responses for that practice within a rolling 24 month period, and is updated daily. There is no minimum number of responses required for a practice to receive a rating. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. 2023 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. Not FDIC or NCUA Insured No Financial Institution Guarantee May Lose Value “For more than 20 years, Kathy Hayden has been helping families across Lawton and beyond build financial security. Voted Best of Southwest Oklahoma for five years in a row and proudly holding the Certified Military Financial Advisor designation, Kathy specializes in making complex transitions simple. With a deep understanding of retirement plans from companies nationwide, and unique local expertise with retirement plans offered by Goodyear, Comanche County Memorial Hospital, The City of Lawton, as well as federal TSP accounts, Kathy ensures her clients have clear, personalized guidance every step of the way. Backed by a 5-star client satisfaction rating, she takes pride in providing the trusted advice and personal attention you deserve.” Plan ahead and retire confidently with Kathy Hayden, voted SWOK’s best financial advisor. 18 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group

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HOMETOWN Happenings

21 hometown living at its best What began as a community need has transformed into a beacon of hope for many in the community over the last 20 years. Just the mention of twinkling lights in the Starlight Unit brought memories flooding back to those who have been helped by the highlytrained medical staff, advanced technology, and dedicated pediatric space at Memorial Health. Lifesaving stories floated across the ballroom March 28 during what was the 20th Starlight event and once again, the community answered the call to support the children in Southwest Oklahoma. GALA Starlight

HOMETOWN Happenings Community leaders Terry K. Bell, Richard Allen, and Johnny Owens launched a fundraising effort in 2005 to create what would later become the Starlight Unit. Through strong community support, it has expanded to include a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and advanced, life-saving technology. It also eases the emotional and financial strain on families by reducing the need for travel and extended time away from home. Nearly 700 people showed up to the 20th Starlight event which raised over $400K to be used to grow the care for women's services, babies, and children in Southwest Oklahoma with the goal of opening a premier Birthing Center. Written by Marie Pihulic Photos by Marie Pihulic and Debbie Duggar

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Written by REANNA GONZALEZ | Photos provided by TEEN COURT INC. OF COMANCHE COUNTY ALL RISE 26 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group

27 hometown living at its best FOR OVER 30 YEARS, TEEN COURT HAS HELPED COMANCHE COUNTY YOUTH RISE UP, CORRECT COURSE AND AVOID LIVES SERVING TIME BY SERVING THE COMMUNITY. TTeen Court Inc. of Comanche County, located in Lawton, has been serving the community since 1991. It was started by Chad Bledsoe, who recognized a gap in accountability for Comanche County teens with misdemeanor charges. The common occurrence in those situations is that teens would be arrested, warned, and released. Bledsoe felt this process was doing these teens an injustice, as it created a narrative that they could commit crimes and get away with them, often resulting in repeat offenders and continuing into adulthood. Of course, as adults, the consequences looked quite different. Bledsoe wanted to create an environment where teens could recognize the value of taking responsibility for their actions and focusing on how what each of them brought to the table was more valuable than anything a petty crime could offer. “Judge Bledsoe believed young people needed a meaningful opportunity to be held accountable while also learning from their mistakes. That model became the foundation for Teen Court, and it remains the core of our program today,” Marcia Frazier, Director for Teen Court, said. Frazier has been working for Teen Court nearly as long as it has existed. She originally worked for a medical office located next door to Teen Court. Being in such close proximity, she befriended a woman that worked at Teen Court who would share with Frazier the success stories she witnessed. This piqued her interest, but she felt committed to pursuing a career as a nurse. However, that all changed when a very young teen began regularly attending the clinic she worked at for sexually transmitted infections. Eventually, the girl opened up to Frazier and revealed that she was being exploited by her guardians in exchange for drugs, resulting in the recurring infections. The experience made Frazier realize how vulnerable the youth are to the environment that shapes them and the only way to save them from such circumstances is to be a positive presence that demonstrates that there is hope and alternative options outside of such circumstances. Frazier said around that time, the original Teen Court Director was moving out of state and so she applied for the job. Not long after, she was hired and has been serving as the Director for the past 30 years.

28 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group “Ideally, lessons about accountability, responsibility, and good citizenship are taught at home. But when those lessons are missing, someone has to step in and help guide young people before they become permanently involved in the justice system,” Frazier shared. “Our job is to make sure that when young people face those consequences, they also learn from them, grow from them, and leave our program with a better path ahead.” Teen Court began as an independent nonprofit, but in 1993 began a partnership with the United Way of Southwest Oklahoma, which has lasted over three decades. For many years, Teen Court was renting the house where the courtrooms are located but recently appealed to the McMahon Foundation for the funds to purchase it, which they were awarded. The target population for Teen Court is generally teens charged with misdemeanors or those that display significant behavioral problems in school with the ages of participants ranging from 10 to 19. Teen Court is a particularly valuable resource in the Lawton community because of the high rate of low-income individuals that don’t have the financial means to obtain what others do. She added that Fort Sill being such a considerable

29 hometown living at its best part of the community results in new youth constantly cycling through and commonly displaying behavioral issues as a result of strict environments or constant moving. “Adolescence is a period in everyone's life that proves to be challenging. Add to this, low-income levels, juveniles beginning a new school, the pressure of figuring out who you really are, and we have a boiler pot for juvenile crime. Teen Court, Inc. has been in business for 30 years, helping to hold youth accountable for their actions, while at the same time, teaching them how to become better citizens of our community,” Frazier said. One of the things that makes Teen Court so unique is that it functions through peer courts, meaning other teens volunteer to fill the roles seen in a regular court room. Through the process, peers determine which repercussion is appropriate for each person and their offense. The repercussions usually include corrective courses, community service, reflective essays, or even sincere apologies. The teens have 60 days to complete their sentence. If successful, their record is expunged with no further consequence. If not, they go to Municipal Court or the Juvenile Bureau.

The benefit of Teen Court is that it displays a sense of community through partnering with other organizations in town, teaching teen volunteers how to be considerate and observant, and teaching teens labeled as “problematic” that they made a mistake, but that doesn’t have to define them. Many teens who started out as cases being assessed by their peers reform their perspectives and go on to become volunteers at teen court. Additionally, some of those that volunteer for Teen Court have gone on to pursue the legal system as adults, becoming attorneys in states around the country. “I have been the director of Teen Court for more than 33 years and have seen thousands of youth and I can tell you first hand, they are all bright teens, with God given talent, that they may not have tapped into yet, but that's our job to help them find the right road, hold them accountable for their behavior, teach them good citizenship and help them realize that they are no different than the rest of us, growing up and trying to find our way in the world,” Frazier said. † To learn more, donate, or volunteer visit teencourt.net 30 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group

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32 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Join us in congratulating them with prayers & well wishes for their future endeavors. Contact our office for information on being featured in our next HOMETOWN GRADUATES SECTION. lindsey@hometownmedia.group Graduates HOMETOWN 1 2 3 4 5 8 6 9 10 7

34 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group 14 Graduates HOMETOWN 16. Jayla Fierro | Tipton High School | Lisa J Green Photography 17. Ashlynn Bracher | MacArthur High School Through Movement Photography 18. Kamdyn McAllister | University of Arts & Sciences of Oklahoma Lisa J Green Photography 19. McKenzie Mercer | Cascia Hall Preparatory School Lisa J Green Photography 20. Maliki Green | Eisenhower High School | Tabitha Tupps 21. Lexi Bellamy | MacArthur High School | Lacey Horn & Katie Bellamy 22. Brock Johnson | Central High School | Lisa J Green Photography 16 18 17 19 20 21 22

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38 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group S Balancing Church, Tournaments and Sunday mornings are sacred. It is a time to worship, a day of rest, and a time where we realign our hearts with God’s word. For Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athletes, however, Sundays can also mean something else: tournament day. It is a day packed with early drives to the city, fasted weigh-ins, adrenaline, and long hours on the mats. For those of us who follow Christ, that creates a tension many know well; how do you honor your faith when your sport demands the same time and focus as Sunday worship? As an active competitor myself, I have found that when these worlds collide, finding balance between church and competition becomes more than a scheduling challenge, it becomes a spiritual discipline. When I first started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I quickly realized that the sport would challenge more than just my body, it would test my priorities. Jiu-jitsu teaches patience, humility, and endurance, but it also demands consistency. As I invested hours in training for competition after competition, the sport began to consume every part of my life. The discipline, camaraderie, and constant pursuit of growth drew me in. In the early stages of competition, however, I found myself wrestling more than just opponents. I SUNDAY ON THE MATS Sunday in the Word FAITH BEFORE THE FIGHT Keeping Jesus First

39 hometown living at its best Written by SARAH CAROLINE BLEVINS | Photos provided by SARAH CAROLINE BLEVINS was wrestling with my schedule, my faith, and what it really means to put God first. When tournaments started falling on Sundays, I felt torn. I loved competing, but I didn’t want my passion for Jiu-Jitsu to come before my commitment to Jesus. That realization changed everything. I began to view my training and competition not as replacements for worship, but as extensions of it. It took time to understand that keeping Jesus first doesn’t mean giving up what we love, it means giving it back to Him. Colossians 3:17 (NLT) reminds us that “Whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus.” The verse became a reminder that God doesn’t want to be part of my life, He wants to be at the center of it. That includes training, rolling, and competing. Whether I’m kneeling to pray or kneeling to tie my belt before a match, I can glorify Him in both moments. Now, when I plan my weekends, I start with worship. If I’m home, I attend church before going to conditioning. If I’m traveling for a tournament, I find a way to keep my heart grounded: waking up early to read Scripture, listening to a sermon or devotional on the drive, or praying before matches. It’s not about perfection, it’s about posture. Keeping my focus on Jesus changes how I approach everything that follows. COLOSSIANS 3:17 (NLT) REMINDS US THAT “WHATEVER YOU DO OR SAY, DO IT AS A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE LORD JESUS.” THE VERSE BECAME A REMINDER THAT GOD DOESN’T WANT TO BE PART OF MY LIFE, HE WANTS TO BE AT THE CENTER OF IT.

40 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group The more I’ve trained, the more I’ve seen how Jiu-Jitsu mirrors the Christian walk. Both require humility, endurance, and submission. On the mats, submission is not defeat, it’s a lesson in awareness and growth. It teaches us to let go of pride and to reset with renewed focus. Spiritually, it’s the same kind of surrender that God calls us to each day. When we submit to His will, we find freedom and strength that pride could never produce. Every roll on the mat is a reminder that progress takes patience. You can’t rush technique; you must learn to breathe through the struggle. Faith works that way too. We don’t become spiritually strong overnight, it’s the slow, steady obedience in daily life that shapes us into who God designed us to be. In both Jiu-Jitsu and faith, community matters. A gym is like a church in many ways. You train together, encourage one another, and help each other grow. There are times when you get choked out or caught off guard, but your teammates help you back up, just as fellow believers lift each other in prayer and accountability. And just like we drill techniques over and over until they become instinct, Christians are called to stay in Scripture, in prayer, and in fellowship so that when life’s challenges come, faith becomes our natural response. Jiu-Jitsu sharpens the body, but faith sharpens the soul. When the two work together, they produce a strength that belts or medals can’t measure. PARRALLELS BETWEEN FAITH & JIU-JITSU JIU-JITSU SHARPENS THE BODY, BUT FAITH SHARPENS THE SOUL. WHEN THE TWO WORK TOGETHER, THEY PRODUCE A STRENGTH THAT BELTS OR MEDALS CAN’T MEASURE.

41 hometown living at its best 41 Balancing church and training isn’t always neat or easy. Sometimes competitions run long. Sometimes the body feels worn down. But even in those moments, faith has a way of centering everything. Prioritizing worship, whether through attending service, personal devotion, or fellowship with teammates, reminds me why I do what I do. It’s not just about balancing time; it’s about balancing the heart. There’s a quiet victory in choosing to keep Christ first, even when the schedule is full or the competition is calling. I’ve learned that showing up on Sunday isn’t only about being inside a church building, it’s about living out worship in every environment. When I bring faith into my training, I’m reminded that my identity is secure in Christ, not in performance or outcomes. There have been Sundays when I’ve gone from church straight to open mat. My body is tired, but my spirit feels renewed. Those days remind me that victory isn’t measured by a scoreboard, it’s measured by faithfulness. It’s in showing up, giving your best, and glorifying God no matter what the result looks like. True balance isn’t about equal time between mats and ministry, it’s about harmony between purpose and passion. When I start my day with Scripture and end it with training, I know I’ve given both my spirit and body the attention they need. One builds endurance in the fight, the other builds endurance in faith. † FINDING BALANCE IN THE BATTLE

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CAMBREE LEE HOLDEN Photos provided by THE HOLDEN FAMILY 4-H SPOTLIGHT PARENTS: Chris & Danielle Holden 4-H CLUB: Sterling 4-H HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN THE 4-H AND PROJECTS? 3 years

45 hometown living at its best WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT SHOWING? My favorite part of showing is spending time with my pigs and building a bond with them. I taught my first set of pigs to sit for marshmallows. They are really smart and fun to be around. My least favorite part of showing is having to wake up early to feed every day. WHAT AWARDS HAVE YOU WON? I have won quite a few breed champions with various pigs that I earned banners, ribbons, money, and even a chair for. Over the summer I won 3 belt buckles for Grand Barrow at the Fletcher fair and Grand Gilt and Grand Barrow at the county fair. The best award I have won so far though was at the COBA Futurity Show. My spot, Popcorn, won his division, earning me 2 banners, an engraved mirror, and a $500 scholarship. HOW HAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE? Well, I’ve already earned $500 toward college and I’m only in 7th grade. Showing pigs has taught me responsibility, patience, how to properly care for animals, and that hard work pays off. WHAT OTHER 4-H PROJECTS HAVE YOU PARTICIPATED IN? I’ve entered a cake into a cake decorating contest at the Fletcher fair. I participated in cupcake wars where I worked with a team to decorate cupcakes and prepare a speech along with a background for the cupcakes. We competed at the county, district, and state levels. I also attended a public speaking workshop.

46 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING 4-H TO PERSUADE THEM TO JOIN? There are many opportunities to find what you like and learn how to work with others on a team. You will make friends outside of your school. You also get opportunities to earn awards like scholarships. WHAT OTHER GROUPS OR ORGANIZATIONS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? I am in FCCLA, Student Council, I’m on the academic team, and play softball and basketball. I am also active in the Sterling FBC youth group and volunteer at church. WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? I can’t name just one. I wouldn’t be where I am with showing if it wasn’t for my ag teacher, Mr. Rowan. He pushes me to do better and helps me learn to care for my pigs. Morrigan Templeton has taught me how to drive them better and helped me have more confidence in the ring. My 4-H leader, Ms. Jackson, has helped me get ready for my competitions and taken time out of her personal life to practice with us and take us where we needed to go. My parents are always there to help me and support me as well. TELL US A FUNNY STORY ABOUT SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED WHILE CARING FOR YOUR ANIMAL OR DURING A COMPETITION. This last summer I had a York gilt that loved to run. I took her out of the barn for her daily walk she took off full speed through the grass, slid, spun around, rolled completely over, and then stood back up as if nothing had happened. She was the most rambunctious pig I’ve had so far. She also loved to cuddle though. After our walks, I would scratch her belly until she laid down and then I would lay with her for a few minutes and we would cuddle. WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES/INTERESTS? I love all animals, especially pigs and horses. I also enjoy playing softball, working out, crocheting, hanging out with my friends, and spending time with my nieces. SHARE SOME WORDS OF WISDOM OR ADVICE THAT HAS HELPED YOU. Always listen to people trying to help you and don’t get frustrated when being pushed to do hard things.

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Supporting Lawton-Fort Sill with local insight. Gene Love has spent his life serving others, from his distinguished career as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army to his leadership roles within the Lawton Community Foundation. Since joining the Arvest Bank board in 2009, Gene has used his extensive experience to help our neighbors find their own paths to success. Whether he’s advocating for local veterans or supporting the Lawton Chamber, Gene’s focus remains exactly where it belongs: on the strength of our community. Member FDIC Gene Love Community and Business Relationship Advisor Board Member Arvest Bank 48 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group

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50 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by KAYLA DURHAM | Photos provided by KAYLA DURHAM FOR 50 YEARS BRADY’S DESIGN CENTER HAS HELPED LAWTON RESIDENTS MAKE A HOUSE A HOME. DESIGN, SERVICE egacy Land A FOUNDATION BUILT ON EXPERIENCE (1960s) The story of Brady’s Design Center begins long before the name became synonymous with home design in southwest Oklahoma. In the 1960s, Cliff and Mollie Brady began their careers at Fowler’s Paint, Glass and Floorcovering Company located at 1010 D Ave. in Lawton. Mollie worked as a bookkeeper while Cliff managed the floor covering department. More than learning the ins and outs of the home improvement industry, they built relationships with local families, contractors, and neighbors. They came to understand that home improvement was not just about products. It was about helping people create spaces where life happens. Those early years laid the foundation for a business centered on trust, service, and community connection.

52 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Armed with years of experience and a shared dream, Cliff and Mollie teamed up with Jessie Brown to open Brady and Brown Paint, Glass and Floorcovering Company in 1975. Their first location at 1913 Cache Road quickly became known not just for quality workmanship, but for dependable service and genuine relationships. From the beginning, the store reflected the values of the people it served. Customers were greeted by name. Projects were handled with care. Whether someone needed a single gallon of paint or materials for a full remodel, they were treated like family. Word spread quickly throughout Lawton and the surrounding communities. By 1985, Brady and Brown had outgrown their original building. They purchased Waggoner Carpets at 1316 N. Sheridan Road, marking their first major expansion. That same year, the company added wallpaper and window treatment departments, evolving into a full-service decorating destination. When Jessie Brown retired in 1986, Cliff and Mollie became sole owners and continued the legacy they had built together. Just one year later, the Bradys came full circle. In 1987, after 40 years in business, Mary and B.K. Fowler, the same couple who had once employed the Bradys, decided to retire. Wanting their legacy to live on, they passed the torch to Cliff and Mollie. With deep gratitude and pride, the Bradys purchased Fowler’s Paint, Glass BRANCHING OUT WITH VISION (1975) GROWTH AND EXPANSION (1985-1987)

53 hometown living at its best 53 and Floorcovering at 1010 D Ave., the very place where their journey began. With the acquisition came a new name, Brady’s Decorating Center, and a clear mission: “Everything you need under one roof.” The Bradys expanded offerings to include paint, glass, floor covering, storm doors, mirrors, countertops, wallpaper, furniture, and home decor accessories. They introduced the Norwolk custom furniture line, which allowed customers to choose their own style and color with delivery in just 30 days, a first for the area. But what truly set Brady’s apart was its people. A dedicated team of designers worked closely with families to bring their visions to life. From small updates to major renovations, Brady’s became part of the milestones that shaped local lives. Cliff and Mollie often said their employees were their greatest asset. They believed in serving with kindness and integrity, always emphasizing, “We go the extra mile with a smile for our customers, because if it weren’t for them, we wouldn’t be here.”

54 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Through the decades, Brady’s has continued to grow, evolve, and adapt to changing design trends while holding fast to its founding values: quality, selection, and service. What began as a small paint and floor covering shop has transformed into one of southwest Oklahoma’s premier design destinations. Generations of families have walked through its doors for guidance, inspiration, and expertise. Many customers who first visited as young homeowners now return with their children and grandchildren. In 2008, as Cliff and Mollie approached retirement, they chose to pass the business on to local entrepreneur Phil Kennedy, someone who shared their dedication to exceptional service and community-centered values. Even after the transition, they remained active in the store, continuing to do what they loved and supporting the customers and team who had become like family. As Brady’s Design Center celebrates 50 years, it continues to honor Cliff and Mollie’s legacy, their vision, perseverance, and deep roots in the community with the same passion and dedication that was its foundation. † A LEGACY OF TRUST AND TRANSFORMATION (1990s-today)

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HOMETOWN Happenings

59 hometown living at its best The RAK Pack is on a mission at Crosby Park Elementary School in Lawton — to carry out as many random acts of kindness as possible. Members of the RAK Pack include seven fourth and fifth graders recruited by Claudia Montgomery, school counselor. RAK Pack stands for Random Acts of Kindness. “Our group is designed for the kids to perform random acts of kindness around their school and their community,” Montgomery said. “I wanted to show them what kindness is. It isn’t just a word, it’s an action.” Montgomery said she was looking for opportunities to become more involved in the community and in the school. That’s when she noticed custodians at Crosby Park had a huge task. One of the random acts of kindness the students perform is helping custodians empty the trash. The Pack has done several community-related activities. They marched in the Holiday in the Park Christmas parade and gave out candy, and rang the bell for The Salvation Army. It is within the walls of Crosby Park that the Pack does the most work. Along with collecting trash, members bag food items for fellow students. The RAK Pack also runs the Kindness Store, where students may “purchase” small items. Montgomery explained that the school chooses a word — like patience — each week that builds good character. During the week, teachers look for students who exhibit that behavior, selecting two students at the end of the week who may exchange a token for an item from the Kindness Store. Fifth grader Caleb Collins explained what it feels like to spread kindness. “It’s like my heart starts beating fast and it feels good to do the right thing, and it makes me feel really kind about myself,” he said. RANDOM ACTS of Kindness Photos and Text by Dee Ann Patterson & Lawton Public Schools

60 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group We all agree, nothing is as good as homegrown tomatoes. Regardless of fancy packaging or chemically enhanced color, homegrown is always better. Gardentown takes the same approach growing flowers. With over 50,000 square feet of greenhouse space and nearly 5 decades of growing experience, our locally grown plants are sure to thrive in your gardens. Tedious detail is given from germination through bloom time to provide sustainable, reliable beauty in your garden. While the supply chain backlogs and transportation costs soar, Gardentown plants are continuously available in our local greenhouses and are ready for planting in your garden during the appropriate season. 5360 N. Hwy 81 | Duncan | 580.255.2633 | gardentown.net | Find us on Facebook at Gardentown Nursery GARDENTOWN ... your premier garden center Annuals • Perennials • Hanging Baskets Trees and Shrubs • Landscaping Outdoor Fireplaces • Patio Decor and Gifts House Plants • Paver Patios • Retaining Walls Take it Outside at Gardentown

62 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by BECCA NELSON SANKEY | Photos by RYLEE'S PHOTOGRAPHY and provided by GEORGE KECK TO THE BANDSTAND From the BATTLEFIELD

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64 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group GGeorge Keck’s drumsticks have kept a rhythm through decades of his life – from Army barracks to battlefields to mentoring soldiers to leading a band. Self-described as boisterous and outspoken, Keck channels his excess energy into percussion, yet knows when to be soft, when a gentle but firm hand and a little levity can guide someone who is struggling more than harsh words and punishment ever could. That balance, which Keck admits is still a work in progress, has defined both his military career and his post-service life. Keck joined the Army at 28, a decision shaped by personal crossroads and global events. “I was into my second marriage,” he said, “and wanted to do better for my new family. Around that time, the hostage crisis in Iran happened, and I didn’t realize it then, but there was a patriotic pull.” Drawn to the glossy brochures recruiters handed out, he initially set his sights on becoming a tanker. He thought the Abrams tank looked “cool” and the $5,000 enlistment bonus was a nice incentive. But with glasses disqualifying Lawton resident and Army veteran George Keck has a lifetime of stories to tell AND wisdom to impart, proving that a spirited, frank musician can lead with both strength and compassion.

65 hometown living at its best him for the driver’s role, he pivoted to a 13E cannon fire direction specialist, a path that would set the trajectory for his Army career. Over the span of 21 years, Keck held a wide range of leadership roles, but it was as a section chief in an artillery fire direction center that he found his niche. “Being the oldest one each time, as a Sergeant and NCO, I had the chance to mentor and shape younger soldiers. That was one of the highlights of my career,” he said. One soldier, a young PFC who was a repeat offender, lacked ambition or concrete goals. Keck handled him differently than other leaders had: no yelling or punishment beyond a single, pointed lesson. “I lifted the end of his sleeping bag in the morning, and he slid out into the grass,” Keck recalled. “After that, he always got up when he was supposed to. A year and a half later, he went through the basic leadership development course and made the Army a career. I like to think I helped him decide to stay.” Keck credited his own drill sergeants, whom he described as “firm but fair,” with shaping his leadership style. “They knew they had to take civilian knuckleheads and mold them into soldiers,” he said. “They inspired me to be clear in my orders, to check in without hovering, and to develop my own approach of guiding rather than threatening.”

66 lawton living magazine | hometownmedia.group The Army also shaped his family life, sometimes painfully so. Married five times, Keck navigated deployments as a single father for 16 years. “Military life is very hard on family,” he said. “You have to balance everything: school, deployments, field exercises and you rely heavily on a dependent care plan, certified babysitters, and a strong support network.” His wife, Kim Keck, bore the brunt of his absence and the constant anxiety that comes with being a military spouse. “Every waking moment, you’re thinking that the chaplain might come to the door to tell you he’s dead,” she said. “It’s a life of fear and anxiety.” Despite the hardships, Keck saw the longterm impact of his leadership both on soldiers and on his own children. His youngest son later joined the Army, was deployed to Afghanistan, and returned safely – a testament to the family’s resilience and dedication. Keck also honored his commitment to education while serving, earning a bachelor’s degree while working as an archivist for the Field Artillery Command and as an education technology creator for the Field Artillery School. “Looking at the past teaches the current generation,” he explained, “They can learn from mistakes and improve on what’s always been good.” Retirement from active service didn’t slow Keck down. He became a member of the Country JamM Band, performing everything from ’40s standards and modern country hits to even the band’s original music. The band’s schedule is busy, with private events, Post gatherings, and public performances. Explaining the commonalities between the military and music, Keck said, “Drums are loud by nature, like artillery. You have to play with precision, consider your surroundings, and coordinate with a team. It’s very similar to firing artillery accurately. Timing, rhythm, and teamwork are everything.” Keck’s honors, including an honorable discharge pin that symbolizes 21 years of service, reflect a career grounded in duty, integrity, and care for those he led.

67 hometown living at its best “That pin represents that I was honorable for 21 years,” he said. “Other awards are icing on the cake, but that’s the core.” Now, decades later, Keck is candid about his own struggles, including PTSD from combat, and stressed the importance of seeking help when needed. “Too many soldiers think they can tough it out on their own,” he said. “You can’t. There’s no way.” George Keck’s life has been a blend of precision and improvisation, loudness and quiet reflection, discipline and heart. From the rigors of the Army to the stage lights of performing, he’s mastered rhythm, leadership, and resilience. He’s seen the cost of military life on family, the transformative power of mentorship and the joy of music in connecting with people. Asked what legacy he hopes to leave behind, Keck paused in contemplation before finally saying, “I like to think people remember me for treating my people right: my family, my soldiers, my friends. And maybe for making them laugh along the way.” †

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What are You Celebrating? VisitGranbury.com

HOMETOWN Happenings In December, students in Sherri Denning’s ceramics classes at Eisenhower High School held their first Empty Bowls fundraiser with proceeds going to Hungry Hearts Feeding Ministry and First Christian Church Agape Feeding Ministry. On Feb. 3, students presented representatives from those two organizations with checks for $1,525 each. Adriene Davis, founder and CEO/president of Hungry Hearts, said the funds will be used to purchase food and other items that the ministry needs. “You guys are absolutely amazing,” Davis told the students. “What it meant to me, their hearts are into giving back. It is such a joy to see them at this age contributing to the community.” Davis said some of the students know firsthand about the work Hungry Hearts does because they have volunteered in getting meals together. FUNDRAISER Empty Bowls

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HOMETOWN Happenings Photos and Text by Dee Ann Patterson & Lawton Public Schools John Adair, with First Christian Church Agape Feeding Ministry, said the church has offered free meals to the homeless every Wednesday night for the past 10 years. The donation from EHS will go to sustain that ministry. The project was instigated at the suggestion of ceramics student T’Jay Bone, who became concerned about those in the community who might have a hard time feeding themselves or their families. Bone approached his ceramics teacher, Sherri Denning, about holding an Empty Bowls event to raise funds to help feed the hungry. Denning was on board, and about 30 students in her ceramics class began making pinch pot bowls in October. Students also made table decorations, such as gingerbread houses, snowmen and Christmas trees. “It is a way for our class to help the community,” Bone said. “Our hope here is that we will get a lot of money to donate to them to allow them to get more food.”

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