Downtown McAlester is getting something new, and it’s all about fun. Former Sheriff’s Deputy and longtime community member, Randy Hass, is opening a video game arcade right on Choctaw Street. For Randy, this project is more than just a business, it’s about giving families and kids in McAlester a safe, exciting place to spend time together.
Randy explained that he has wanted to help with the revitalization of downtown for a long time. Groups like the Dancing Rabbit Music Association and the McAlester Makers have already done so much to bring people downtown with their festivals and events. Randy says he wanted to add to that momentum with something unique, something that kids and families could enjoy all year round.
“There’s just not much for young people to do in McAlester, especially north of Highway 69,” Randy said. “When families come downtown for events, I wanted kids to have something fun right there too.”
The arcade will feature a mix of attractions. Families can expect to see arcade-style video games, board games, and even space for birthday parties. There will also be a small concession area with snacks and drinks. Over time, Randy hopes to add more attractions based on what people in the community want.
One of his favorite memories as a kid was playing Ninja Turtles at the arcade inside Mazzio’s Pizza with his dad and brothers. He remembers the joy of playing until they ran out of tokens. That memory has stuck with him, and it inspired his dream of creating a place where today’s kids can build memories of their own.
More than just a business, Randy sees this arcade as part of something bigger: making downtown truly family-friendly. He believes that when kids have a safe, positive place to go, the whole community benefits. “If we don’t give kids good things to do, sometimes they’ll find their own fun in ways that can lead to trouble,” he said.
The community has already responded with excitement. Many people Randy has spoken with are looking forward to bringing their children and grandchildren. For parents, the arcade will be a safe, affordable place where kids can play while adults shop, dine, or enjoy one of the many events on Choctaw Street.
Randy hopes people feel joy and nostalgia when they walk through the doors. He wants the arcade to be a place where parents can show their kids the kinds of games they grew up with, while also enjoying new ones together.
At its heart, Randy says, this project is about leaving the community better than he found it. “The things we do now will echo through time,” he said. “We should all make sure to leave the world better than when we arrived.”
Soon, downtown McAlester will have another reason to smile, laugh, and gather. With Randy’s arcade, Choctaw Street is about to level up.
Are you excited to see an arcade return to McAlester? Hit reply and tell us which classic game you hope Randy brings in first!