Stillwater Strong: Eskimo Joe’s commitment to rebuilding a community

As a staple in Stillwater Eskimo Joe's and owner Stan Clark are committed to helping the community rebuild after last week's fires

Tuesday, March 18th 2025, 5:29 pm

By: Mike Glover

STILLWATER, Okla. -

Stillwater and Eskimo Joe’s are and will always be tied together, so what affects the town definitely affects the company.

“They’re a part of Oklahoma State University, and a part of Stillwater,” said Stan Clark, owner of Eskimo Joe’s.

For over 50 years Eskimo Joes has been a staple in Stillwater.

“So, we like to say that we like to share Joe’s big grin for the greater good,” said Clark.

Stan Clark, owner of the iconic store and restaurants, is OSU through and through. So, when fires consumed Stillwater last week, Clark was personally affected.

“I think the actual forced evacuations occurred around 5:30 PM, but I had already left by then,” said Clark.

Clark’s home did not sustain damage, however there were homes in his neighborhood completely destroyed.

“I’m still just kind of in shock, and my heart just bleeds for all these people that have lost everything,” said Clark.

A broken heart of a man who has never encountered a stranger

“I love this community, so many dear friends here. Just loyal patrons, you know it’s just devasting,” said Clark.

However, through his devastation, is hope.

“I will say that there is an incredible spirit here in Stillwater, to person, everybody I’ve talked to, we love it here, we’re going to rebuild here,” said Clark.

Clark committed to the cause for the long hall. “This isn’t a few days or a week, this is going to be months, and people are going to be in need,” said Clark.

He has been personally giving since the devastation happened. And his 450 employees are also ready to step in

“I do know this, everybody in our company wants to know how they can help. We’ll be giving not only our treasure but also our time and our expertise.

Reminding the world what it means to live in this community. “That’s right we are Stillwater strong,” said Clark.

This isn’t a quick fix for the residents of Stillwater, so when all the outside attention is gone, this company has already started planning things they can do to help their neighbors.

Mike Glover

Mike Glover is a native Oklahoman who enjoys highlighting the people and organizations that positively reflect the Oklahoma standard in his daily Something Good segment.