As we look back on 2025, our hearts are full of gratitude for the opportunity to tell the stories of McIntosh County. Each week, it has been our privilege to shine a light on the people who make this community strong, kind, and uniquely ours. From everyday heroes to big milestones, covering life in McIntosh County isn’t just our job — it’s an honor. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes, your businesses, and your lives this past year.
January
Local FFA student is top
3 nationwide
Inspiring change in the industry In mid-December, Checotah FFA member Jade McPeak, her mother, Emmy McPeak and FFA Advisor, Zachary Ilbery, traveled all expenses paid to Las Vegas, Nevada for the Intertribal Agriculture Council Annual Conference after Jade was named as one of the top three finalists nationwide in the 2024 IAC Youth Essay Contest.
McIntosh County designated Purple Heart County U.S. Army, 1963-66 Texas, Korea, San Francisco “Poor is the nation that has no heroes, but poorer still is the nation that, having heroes, fails to remember and honor them.” – Marcus Tullius Cicero (106 BC – 43 BC) County Clerk Deena Farrow read the words of the Roman statesman, scholar and philosopher Marcus Tullius Cicero as the McIntosh County Commissioners prepared to honor military veterans by becoming a Purple Heart County.
McIntosh County on Tuesday, Dec. 17, became the third county in Oklahoma to receive the designation, joining Comanche and Logan.
More than 185 cities in the state are designated a Purple Heart City.
Retirement party held for Williams A retirement party was held at the courthouse on Monday, Dec. 30, for long-time County Assessor Trina Williams, whose final day in office was Dec. 31. County Assessor Association of Oklahoma Vice President Doug Warr of Norman attended the event and presented her with an award in honor of her 16 years of hard work and dedicated service.
“I loved it,” said Williams. “But I’m done.” She said she plans to work in the district attorney’s office two days a week, helping out with paperwork.
McKnight passes baton to Limbaugh Kim Limbaugh, longtime volunteer with the McIntosh County Election Board, will take over as secretary of the office on Feb. 2.
Limbaugh will replace Janelle McKnight, who became secretary on Jan. 1, 2020 with the retirement of Carol Hayes.
February
Local teacher and coach guards the 60th Inauguration
Staff Sergeant Tom Butler, of the 2120th Engineer Company located in Broken Arrow, had the privilege of being part of the 60th Inauguration last month and was honored to be there.
“I’ve been in the Oklahoma Army National Guard for 15 years after I got in at the ripe old age of 40,” Butler said. “I was part of 100 members of the Oklahoma Army National Guard who were chosen to be a part of Operation Potomac Lightning, a joint task force which also included the Secret Service, U.S. Marshals and the Capital Police. We joined 8,000 other members of the National Guard from 40 other states and territories.
Checotah City Council honor 25-year employees and recognize Checotah FOP In their February City Council meeting the City of Checotah honored two 25-year employees.
Mayor Tarkington presented a certificate and pin to Andy Burnett for 25 years of service and Police Chief Darren Glover presented a certificate and pin to Police Officer Rick Smith for 25 years of service, to which he smiled and stated he had been with them for 32 years.
Downtown Green Space meeting a success It was another great turnout as more than 20 residents attended the second session with the OU School of Architecture team on Monday, Feb. 17 at the Checotah Community Center.
TheDowntownGreen Space project was spearheaded by Councilman Jay Hayes. The project aims to transform the town’s core into a more vibrant and accessible area for residents and visitors alike.
The University of Oklahoma’s Landscape Architecture program works with towns and cities across Oklahoma to create better outdoor spaces for both people and nature. The students team up with the OU Institute for Quality Communities and local residents to design parks, public areas, and natural spaces that help communities thrive while protecting the environment.
Old Man Winter coldcocks county Traffic fatality investigated; fire destroys home; widespread closings; Waiting for tow took hours
Old Man Winter assaulted McIntosh County last week and the surrounding areas.
During the coldest part of the freeze, temperatures fell to one degree in some areas, with windchills of -14.
Snow, ice and freezing temperatures knocked out the power for some, forced the closing of schools, businesses, and governments and made streets and highways all but impassable.
Hundreds of vehicles ended up in ditches throughout the county, especially on Interstate 40 and U.S. Highway 69.
Dozens of the vehicles that ended up in ditches and wrecks were semis.
Morgan Towing and Recovery said normally
See 2025, page A3 there is a 45-minute wait for a tow. In the depth of the deep freeze in Mc-Intosh County the wait was six to eight hours, according to a dispatcher.
Wind farm proposal revived after fails in one committee If at first you don’t succeed, try and try again.
Leaders of the Oklahoma House of Representatives channeled the wisdom of Billy Joe Shaver today, running a revised version of a stringent wind farm setback bill in the Utilities Committee one day after an even more industry- prohibitive version failed to pass in the Energy Committee.
Wind company lobbyists were aghast with the decision, working overnight in hopes that House Bill 2751 would find a similar fate to House Bill 1989, which failed 5-7 on Wednesday. Ultimately, they were unsuccessful, with HB 2751 advancing 8-3. Revealed publicly about 90 minutes before Thursday’s meeting, the new bill proposes only quartermile property setbacks as opposed to half-mile restrictions, adjusted height prohibitions, and a faster opportunity for a county vote to exempt specific projects from the wind farm setback requirements.
March
Community savors 17th Annual Chili Cook-Off It was a culinary showdown of steaming hot chili during the 17th Annual Chili Cook-Off in Checotah on Feb. 22. The community showed up as 21 competitors showed out with some serious spicy chili and some delightful desserts at the Checotah Senior Community Center. The yearly cook-off heated up the town as it brought in locals, visitors and guests to pay a one-time entrance fee to eat all the chili they could hold, along with some tasty desserts and a drink.
The bravest of chefs offered a distinguished panel of judges some interesting array of different kinds of chili – some sweet, some spicy and some even a little surprising with amusing alphabet letters that had the judges giggling with sheer entertainment. As judges finished critiquing the competitors’ chili, the locals with the most discerning of palates put in their votes for the People’s Choice which went to Checotah Gun & Pawn, making them $150 happier.
Luches Warrior chosen as McIntosh County Democrat’s Citizen of the Year Another successful Chamber Banquet was held this year with many businesses in attendance and outstanding members like Luches Warrior being recognized as Mc-Intosh County Democrat’s Citizen of the Year. Though Warrior could not attend this year due to illness his family accepted the award for him and took it to him where he proudly displayed it on the hospital wall.
General Manager Shauna Belyeu announced Warrior as this year’s recipient as she read the following statement:
Saying farewell to Coach Truman Dixon On Dec. 10, 2024, Truman Dixon, celebrated his last birthday. He turned 99. Little did Checotah know that they would lose another icon just a few months later, on Sunday, March 9, when their beloved “Coach” headed for the biggest game day of his life – a golden ticket at the Golden Gate.
Truman was born the 10th child to Mary Jane White and Thomas Dixon. Little did Mary know then that she had given birth to a living legend that would graduate from Checotah High School in 1944, be the first of their family to attend college and come back to coach his beloved Wildcats. Yes, Truman would go on to become a teacher, mentor and coach on and off the field for decades in McIntosh County.
From coaching both boys and girls basketball teams which led the boys to the State Championship in 1969, Truman also won Oklahoma Coaches Association Basketball Coach of the Year three times and was inducted in 1996 to the OCA Hall of Fame. In 2022, he would also be inducted into the Checotah Athletic Hall of Fame with former coaches, players and students cheering him on.
Wind turbine bill passes another hurdle “I am super excited to announce that HB2751 presented by Rep. Trey Caldwell passed the Energy Oversight Committee,” District 15 State Rep. Tim Turner said last week. “This is just one more step in securing our quality of life in Eastern Oklahoma.
Turner and District 13 State Rep. Neil Hays were listed as co-authors of the legislation that will put in place a setback from wind turbines in counties that meet certain wind speed and population density requirements.
After passing the Energy and Natural Resources Oversight Committee 10-6 Wednesday, March 5, it is eligible to be heard by the full house.
House Bill 2751 is the culmination of work being done by multiple House members who filed wind setback bills this session.
“I appreciate the work of our Republican House members who came together to find a compromise that, while it doesn’t make everyone happy, addresses this issue in a way that works for all of Oklahoma,” said Hilbert, R-Bristow. “Our two-tiered committee process is intended to ensure work like this is done at the committee level, and this is a great example of the process working.”
The City of Checotah began breaking ground and getting the site ready last week to build a new Farmer’s Market building at the Checotah Sports Complex.
17-year-old Konawa runner is a three-peat in 5k Green Run LEA enhances the popular St. Patrickthemed event Thomas Yahola, a 17-year-old runner from Konawa, owns the Eufaula’s annual 5k Green Run.
He won this year’s race with a time of 18:04. Last year he won it with a time of 18:15 and in 2023 he won with a time of 18:58.
Yahola didn’t win in 2022, the first year of the 5k – perhaps because he didn’t enter.
District Teacher of the Year chosen Others honored
Callie Mae Cox was excited when she was chosen as Marshall Elementary Teacher of the Year, but when she found out later that she had been chosen as Checotah Public Schools’ District Teacher of the Year she couldn’t believe it.
“Winning Teacher of the Year for Marshall was an unbelievable feeling,” Cox said. “I felt praised and loved by my colleagues. But then to win District Teacher of the Year was completely surreal. Checotah Public Schools is blessed with amazing teachers, and to be recognized as one of them is very humbling. I am honored to represent CPS.”
Demonstrators hit downtown over downsizing
Several individuals demonstrated their right to protest as they marched downtown Checotah Saturday morning after meeting at Veterans Park to say “Hands Off” their jobs as well as others. The Hands Off protests were led by a nationwide coalition of organizations, including civil rights organizations, veterans, women’s rights groups, labor unions, and LGBTQ+ advocates.
From a dream to a miracle in the making When Kathy Love had her first dream years ago, she saw a worship center where the ladies from Freedom House could come and worship as well as play games, etc.
Though she told the director, they both laughed at the probability and said, “Not happening. There’s no way.”
A couple years pass and Love has another dream of the same building in the west wing but this time the building is even fuller. One graduate is getting ready to get married. Others are playing games, painting and celebrating birthdays and all kinds of things.
Third times the charm – three more years have passed and Love has the third dream of the same building, same location!
April
Luches Warrior, Jr.’s Farewell Ride and Final Roundup On Saturday, April 12, a community came together to honor Checotah Roughrider Luches Warrior, Jr.’s “Farewell Ride and Final Roundup.” Friends and family lined the streets of Checotah for a fitting and final parade for their beloved cowboy who never met a stranger and always offered a helping hand. Several riding clubs and individuals saddled up to take one last ride with their favorite cowboy, as Luches Jr. was carried by Vintage Carriage in a beautiful black and glass coach carriage drawn by two black Clydesdales. Also following the carriage was Luches’ horse “Tex” who was sadly looking for and missing his rider of almost 20 years.
Cultivating a community “How do you get away from toiling the land when your middle name is Farmer?” Leonard Farmer Hill said. “It’s all about caring enough to cultivate community. We have to sow the right seeds to reap a bountiful harvest.”
And that’s what Hill is doing within his community.
Though Hill dappled in farming, it wasn’t until he met Roger Dukes and signed up for a High Tunnel grant in 2019 that he really started seeing the potential of year-round gardening.
The high tunnel process started because putting everything under the high tunnels resulted in better control of the climate and getting a
See 2025, page A4 longer growing season.
Now the High Tunnel System is an increasingly popular conservation practice for many farmers and they can get financial assistance through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
The best thing about high tunnels is how they help local farmers to provide healthy locally-grown food for their communities, especially communities with food insecurities like McIntosh County.
Special dedication in honor of Jerry Faught A dedication ceremony to rename the Checotah Public School’s Multi-Purpose Building for the Multi-Purpose Building is set for Wednesday, May 7 at 10 a.m. at the facility. The Checotah School Board recently voted to rename the building in honor of their beloved former school administrator Jerry L. Faught who served the Checotah Public School District for 32 years including 17 years as their assistant superintendent.
Faught, who was a visionary leader, wrote the competitive grant for the facility in 1976 with the initial proposal written as an additional physical education facility which functioned as a cafeteria space for two buildings. Over the years many families have utilized this same building as a place to seek shelter during stormy weather and with recent passage of the school bond the facility now qualifies as a functional safety shelter.
Happy tails find happy home Two abandoned pups recently picked up by the local pound showed off their happy, wagging tails after finding new happy homes. Though too many pups and dogs are still being tossed out like trash in McIntosh County and the surrounding areas, a volunteer group, Paws N Claws-Eufaula, is doing their best to find homes for these pups when they end up in the local pound or in foster homes. Paws N Claws partners, Lori Powell-Fells and LaDonna Rhodes, simply refuse to give up hope for these unfortunate pups being abandoned or abused in the area, but they would like to see stricter laws put in place to fine these perpetrators.
“For over a year we have helped to find homes for these poor, abandoned and sometimes abused animals,” Rhodes said. “I wish I could say it’s getting better but we desperately need stricter laws and steeper fines to hit these perpetrators where it hurts the most – their pocket books. I’m personally sick of pathetic people who can abandon and abuse animals in our state and get away with little to no consequences. We have ongoing animal abuse cases right now in our county where animals have literally been abused with some of these poor animals being starved to death and we are still waiting to see if the perpetrators get more than a slap on the wrist.
Man charged with sexual abuse
A 27-year-old Checotah man has been charged with numerous heinous crimes involving young children.
Brandon Lakota Morlin was charged Monday with child sexual abuse; aggravated possession of child sexual abuse material including more than 100 images and child sexual abuse material buying possession/ procuring.
Associate District Judge Brendon Bridges entered a not guilty plea on behalf of the defendant and set bond at $900,000 and ordered him to stay away from any victim listed in the allegations or any other children under the age of 18.
May
Duvall Dynasty continues to qualify cowboys After a competitive weekend at Checotah Round Up Club, the 46th Annual Duvall Steer Wrestling Jackpot is in the books and the Duvall Dynasty continues to keep qualifying cowboys to compete.
Although steer wrestling may have originated in the 1890s with an African-American cowboy named Bill Pickett from Texas, Roy Duvall and all the Duvall Dynasty who followed his boot-steps have definitely put Checotah, OK on the map and are still making the little town proud.
Roy, who had a record 24 National Finals Rodeo qualifications and three World Championships along with his brother Bill, started from humble beginnings and went all over the world breaking records and winning championships but yet they never forgot where they were from. Now the next generations compete.
Checotah, dubbed the “Steer Wrestling Capital of the World” is still the hometown and training ground for six World Champions and the Duvall Dynasty has been behind most of it. Of course these cowboys have great comradery and Friday night several upcoming hopefuls took the time to shake the hands of these legends that no longer ride but still feel the pride.
Another successful Kindergarten graduation On May 9 an excited Class of 2037 graduated from Kindergarten in Checotah at the Myrtle Frost Event Center under the direction of Marshall’s new principal, Katelyn Walker, who welcomed everyone to the special occasion.
As classroom after classroom walked the isle, some skipping and waiving, while others kept their eyes down and their feet moving, parents and family cheered on their little ones and the successful year they had completed. Each class followed their teachers who were as excited as they were to have been a part of their young students’ journeys and were even more excited to be wrapping up another school year.
Two charged with killing Eufaulan Ashton Wright MUSKOGEE – Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the March 31 murder of 21-year-old Ashton Wright, a Eufaula resident found shot and left for dead on a Muskogee street.
Being held without bond in the Muskogee County jail are Terrance Michael Tunley, 20, and Kyren Omari Boulware, 19, both of Muskogee.
Tunley was arrested on May 20 and Boulware on May 21. Both are charged with first degree murder with deliberate intent and conspiracy to commit murder.
They have been ordered to not have contact with the 38 witnesses listed in a probable cause affidavit.
Wright’s body was discovered on a street in the area of South L and Frankfort streets at about 7:40 p.m.
According to the probable cause affidavit a witness saw a black Lincoln Navigator SUV leaving the scene.
Blues Hall of Fame weathers the foul weather Rainstorms didn’t stop the celebration Saturday’s rainstorm didn’t put a damper on the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame celebration and induction ceremonies Saturday in Rentiesville.
One band after another took to the stage at the Down Home Blues Club and dancers crowded the dance floor to rock and sway to their soulful tunes.
Inductees seemed genuinely touched and humbled to receive the trophies presented to them by Selby Minner, a blues musician herself who operates both the Hall of Fame and the adjacent Down Home Blues Club.
“It’s a labor of love,” Selby said, “and it’s nice to be validated.”
June
Treasurer treasures her kids, grandkids
Looks forward to spending time with them McIntosh County Treasurer Betty Whisenhunt has begun the final month of her 11 years in office.
She was sworn in on July 1, 2014, and her last day will be June 30.
Whisenhunt replaced long-time Treasurer Carol Lindley, who retired after 22 years in office.
When Whisenhunt was sworn in she said, “I am excited to serve the citizens of McIntosh County.”
After announcing her retirement last month, she said, “I’m excited about retirement.”
But she will miss her job.
2 dead in apparent murder/suicide
What authorities say appears to be a murder suicide took place at about 4:42 p.m., Tuesday, May 27 in Checotah.
Dead are Rachel Stewart, 31, of Eufaula, and Todd Patterson, 30, of Checotah. Rachel Lenee left behind her beloved son, Jeremiah Casey Sears of the home
McIntosh County Democrat wins Sequoyah Award Indian Journal places second The Oklahoma Press Association presented its Better Newspaper Contest Awards during the OPA Annual convention June 6-7, at the Grand Casino Hotel and Resort in Shawnee.
The top award a newspaper can receive is the coveted Sequoyah Award, given to newspapers in seven divisions based upon population.
The McIntosh County Democrat won the Sequoyah Award in Division 6, which includes weekly publications in areas where the population ranges from 2,800
See 2025, page A5 to 6,000.
The Eufaula Indian Journal came in second for the Sequoyah Award in Division 5, which includes publications in which the population ranges from 6,000 to 20,000.
This year, the IJ was moved to Division 5 from Division 6 so the Democrat and IJ would not compete against each other. Both are owned by Cookson Hills Publications.
“I’m incredibly proud to see our local newspapers recognized with these awards from our peers in other states. The Sequoyah Award is the highest honor a paper can receive.
LaDonna Rhodes and our entire team works so hard to put out quality papers each week and it is a testament to the passion, grit, and teamwork of our entire staff. Every story we tell, every edition we print, is a reflection of a community worth celebrating,” General Manager Shauna Belyeu said.
Blues legend slain, brother charged; competency hearing set Petition circulated for
“Selby Minner Act;” Fan urges “Sing for Selby” event
Eighteen years ago Blues icon Selby Minner filed for a permanent protective order against her brother Louis Carl Guenther after he allegedly verbally and physically abused her.
Tuesday morning, June 10, Guenther, 68, was found by deputies sitting on the grounds of the Honey Creek Battlefield in Rentiesville, covered in blood and holding a hammer, according to court records.
He reportedly had been sitting there for hours, until a concerned citizen called authorities and asked that they check on the suspicious person.
Across the street from the historic Battlefield, where hundreds died in a Civil War confrontation, Guenther’s 75-year-old sister was found dead on the floor of the Blues club she and her late husband DC Minner spent decades turning into a legendary destination for Blues fans.
59th Old Settlers Day goes off without a hitch The 59th Old Settlers Day weekend went off without a hitch this Friday and Saturday in Checotah and some of the cutest little cowgirls and cowboys came out to celebrate.
The excitement began Friday night at the annual Checotah Round-Up Club Rodeo. A special gun raffle was held for Greg Berry, who is recovering from heart surgery. Bear Arms MFG donated the gun to help with hospital expenses.
As always the Checotah Lions Club served hot pancakes and sausage to all the early risers on Saturday. Then the Checotah Chamber of Commerce hosted the town’s tradition of good ol’ fashion family fun with turtle races, frog jumping contests, water balloon toss games and more.
Checotah Alumni to host reunion this weekend Class of 1975 honor Jim Caro as “Distinguished Alumni” The Checotah High School Alumni Reunion is finally here and will be two days reminiscing over high school days gone by too quickly.
On Friday, June 27, everyone is invited to the Katy Depot to catch up with old friends and even teachers and coaches. Bring your yearbooks and pictures and enjoy a cool place to remember old times. Yearbooks of the past will be available to look back and enjoy a few laughs. Doors open at 5 p.m.
On Saturday, June 28, the Class of 1975 will meet at the Katy Depot from 10 a.m. -11:30 a.m. to honor this year’s special alumni, Jim Caro, who went to Boys State in 1974 with classmates Mike Key, Tim Newton, Mel Hays. Glenn Sizemore and Andy Thompson He was also part of the National Honor Society, CHS Tracks ’75, CHS Drama and CHS Stage Band as a senior in high school.
However, the Class of 1975 is most proud of Caro’s long military career and service to his country.
Caro is a Desert Storm Veteran who spent 22 years flying F-14 and F-18 fighter jets off dozens of Navy aircraft carriers. Caro has also taught Government Contract Management to DOD civilians and military personnel at an Air Force Post graduate school for many years.
Family, friends and fans bid farewell to Blues legend
Almost 300 attend service for Selby Minner Her casket rested below center stage at the Checotah Performing Arts Center, open for friends, fans, and family to view her precious body before her life’s celebration began. No one lingered long.
That wasn’t Selby lying there beneath the gold necklaces on her throat and chest, the silver chains draped over her hands and across her stomach. I visualized Soul Selby hovering above, waiting to see if this farewell could truly capture her life.
Farewell to Checotah’s friend, Jerri Reaves A sister’s sweet recollection
Last Thursday family and friends said goodbye to former city councilwoman Jerri Reaves who had passed away on June 26 at the age of 82.
Jerri graduated from Checotah High School in 1962. In 1980, she began working at Garrett Chevrolet as an office administrator. Later she worked as the office manager for Thomas Marine and finally at Garrett Wrecker Service, retiring in the early 2000s. She also served as a council woman for over 10 years for the City of Checotah and volunteered at the Katy Depot and other events. She was proud to be awarded the 2006 Main Street Outstanding Volunteer and the 2012 Significant Alumna as well.
July
Lightning strike kills Eufaula woman in cemetery A 57-year-old Eufaula woman was killed by lightning during a routine stroll through a cemetery Friday evening.
Joy Ann Rogers was walking through Greenwood Cemetery shortly before 7 p.m. when a thunderstorm broke out, and she sought shelter under a tree, according to her uncle Joe Johnson of Oklahoma City.
Lightning struck the tree and killed Rogers.
Eufaula Police Chief David Bryning said his department was notified at 6:43 p.m. that a person was lying on the ground near a tree that appeared to have been struck by lightning.
Prayer walk to shed light Several from the community came out to honor murder victims, Rachel Stewart and Selby Minner, at the Violence Awareness Prayer Walk on June 26 at Checotah and Rentiesville.
Organizers of the walk, LaDonna Rhodes and Teresa Ellifritt, wanted to put faces to the domestic violence numbers that so many hear about today. It was personal for Rhodes, whose loved one was Stewart, and Ellifitt stated, “Too many people have been lost to violence in our communities, but prayer is the answer. So we are praying for protection over our citizens, peace in the minds of the afflicted and affected, and revival in all our hearts and cities. Prayer is the only thing that can help this type of devastation.”
Checotah lit up the sky this 4th of July The City of Checotah showed off their bold stripes, bright stars and brave hearts this Fourth of July after working countless hours so residents could celebrate their freedom with lots of family fun and fireworks. Freedom House Adult & Teen Challenge received front row seating at the event and the ladies were the honorary guests at this year’s festival. They were even given the pleasure of pulling the switches to set off some of the fireworks.
It was a red, white and brew morning as organizers started their day with coffee and set up tables and trophies for the Freedom Fest 5K Fun Run that kicked off at 7 a.m. top begin a day full of activities at the Checotah Sports Complex. Approximately 100 runners began showing up just before kickoff time to run with family and friends.
Checotah says goodbye to cowboy legend Bill Duvall When Bill Duvall was called to meet His Maker in the Great Round Up in the sky this past Sunday, Checotah lost one of its best storytellers and legendary cowboys ever. Thankfully his legacy will live on in his children and his grandchildren and also in a collection of rodeo clips and interviews locals can view at the Heartland Heritage Museum & Gallery.
A little over one year ago, rodeo fans, friends and family gathered for the “Legends of Rodeo Past and Present” Premiere at the Heartland to honor Checotah’s rich rodeo history and its ro-
Checotah bids farewell to Jerri Reeves.
STAFF PHOTO
deo legends. Two particular cowboys, brothers Bill Duvall and Roy Duvall, were part of that incredible evening, as were several other rodeo greats like Ote Berry, Betty Roper, Tommy Combs and more.
Paws N Claws to register dogs during Whole Hawg Encourages community to “Get On Board” Paws N Claws will be registering Eufaula city dogs this Friday, July 25, and Saturday, July 26, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Posey Park during Whole Hawg Days. The local rescue organization hopes the community takes the opportunity to “Get On Board” this summer and register their four-legged family member with the city. Anyone who registers this weekend will have a chance at winning some cool prizes for their pet consisting of dog toys and treats from Lake Dog and possibly a 2-night stay for two dogs at Checotah Bark Resort.
August
Checotah Schools implement state-mandated bell-to-bell policy for 2025 school year As the 2025–26 academic year begins, Oklahoma schools are rolling out a landmark state law banning student use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices during the instructional day. Signed into law by Gov. Kevin Stitt in May, Senate Bill 139 reflects a statewide effort to eliminate distractions and refocus classrooms on instruction and student well-being.
Checotah High School is among those implementing the mandate with a stricter policy that prohibits students from using or possessing poweredon devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and similar technology, between the first and last bell of the school day.
The policy is designed to maximize instructional time and keep students more engaged in the learning process.
The day Checotah got bombed
Heartland hosts 40th commemoration The Heartland Heritage Museum & Gallery had a wonderful turnout for their 40th Commemoration of the Bombing at Checotah on Aug. 7. Several locals told their recollection of what happened that day and how it impacted them personally. Local newspapers lined the room giving insight to that impactful day when town folk called relatives to say “I got bombed” after a military truck laden with 10,000-pound bombs collided with another vehicle on an entrance ramp.
In the early hours of the morning on August 4, 1985, Checotah residents were literally shaken from their beds when those bombs exploded, shattering their windows, damaging property and rocking foundations. This accidental collision between a tractor-trailer loaded with bombs from the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant and a passenger vehicle resulted in two small explo-
See 2025, page A8 sions. Then the biggest explosion would carve out a crater 27-feet deep and 35-feet across the highway. Because of this destructive blast the National Guard would come in to evacuate and secure the site, and unforgettable memories would forever be engraved on the minds of each civilian that lived in Checotah.
September
Executive Order
Muscogee Nation Principal Chief David Hill has issued Executive Order No. 25-05, outlining the Nation’s plan to comply with a landmark Supreme Court decision requiring the incorporation of the Treaty of 1866’s Article II into Muscogee (Creek) law regarding citizenship for Freedmen descendants.
The Executive Order, signed Aug. 28, comes in direct response to the Muscogee Nation Supreme Court’s July 23, 2025, ruling in SC 2023-10, a case that challenged the exclusion of Freedmen descendants from full citizenship rights within the Nation. The Court held that the Treaty of 1866 between the United States and the Muscogee Nation remains in full legal effect and that its provision guaranteeing Freedmen and their lineal descendants “all the rights and privileges of native citizens” must be enforced.
The Court also declared unconstitutional and void all references in Muscogee law and policy to citizenship “by blood,” significantly reshaping the legal landscape of the Nation’s constitutional interpretation and internal governance.
Checotah FFA earns historic award The Checotah FFA Chapter has been recently recognized in the 2025 National Chapter Award Program from the National FFA Organization.
“We are so excited that the Checotah FFA was given a National 3-star ranking,” FFA advisor Zachary Ilbery said. “This truly is a mark of their exceptionalism because less than 1% of chapters nationwide are given a ranking from the National FFA Organization.”
The National Chapter Award Program recognizes outstanding FFA chapters throughout the country that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. These chapters improve chapter operations using the National Quality FFA Chapter Standards and a Program of Activities that emphasizes growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture. Chapters are rewarded for providing educational experiences for the entire membership.
Walking Out of Darkness, one step at a time
A community is walking out of darkness, one step at a time. What started out as one family’s mission to bring awareness to suicide has become a resounding mission for many within the McIntosh County and beyond. The Lake Eufaula Out of Darkness Walk this past Saturday at the Eufaula Cove Pavilion had over 150 people who registered for the evening event. From veterans to vendors to family members and friends, all came together for one goal – to bring awareness to suicide and how it can be possibly be prevented.
Organizer Sharina Little, who lost her18year-old nephew just days before his 19th birthday in October of 2018, started the annual event last year in hopes that her family could share their heartbreaking experience to help others who have experienced the same trauma and to help others recognize the warning signs.
October
Arrest made in bomb scare
The bomb threat that emptied the courthouse on Wednesday, Oct. 22, was an open and shut case.
By the end of the day Cheyenne Cree Simpson, 32, of Eufaula, had been arrested and faces charges related to the threat.
Simpson was scheduled for a court appearance the morning of Oct. 22 on a charge of domestic abuse – assault and battery. She was charged with that felony on Sept. 3.
Her hearing on that charge has been changed to 9 a.m., Nov. 19.
Class of Checotah wins Grand Champion in Ironhead Invitational The Class of Checotah competed at the Ironhead Invitational on September 27, coming home with some exceptional bragging rights. A total of 19 marching bands in their division competed over the course of the day before peers and fans. They included Pocola, Panama, Warner, Mansfield, Wilburton, Hartshorne, Vian, Morris, Beggs, Spiro, Victory Christian, Okmulgee, Checotah, Stigler, Stilwell, Bristow, Inola, Broken Bow and Poteau. The Pride of Eufaula wrapped up the day with a final exhibition of their skilled artistry. However, in the end only one band walked away with the title of Grand Champion – Checotah!
In preliminaries, the Class received the following: Outstanding PercussionO utstanding Drum Major Outstanding Color Guard 1st Place in Class – 3A Silver In finals, they received: Outstanding Color Guard Grand Champion
November
Battle of Honey Springs still making history The Battle of Honey Springs Reenactment drew sizable crowds as did Education Day as actors and staff made history come to life over the three-day weekend of events from Nov. 7-9.
Visitors and students from all over the state came out to experience what it was like to live and fight for one’s freedoms decades ago. Activities over the weekend included selfguided tours through the Union, Confederate, and civilian camps, and reenactments on Saturday and Sunday that brought the battle to life.
December
Community Thanksgiving Dinner growing each year When one family lost their matriarch they finally realized the importance of taking care of each other and their community. That’s why the late Beverly Ann Barrow’s children and grandchildren took up her cause to host a Community Thanksgiving dinner each year.
“We just felt like we needed to pick up her mantle to help others in the local area,” said daughter Kim Codner. “I think she would be proud.”
Codner, along with her brother Tim Rice, and other family members served over one hundred people this year in their hometown. The Thanksgiving Dinner was for anyone who wanted to come to the Checotah Senior Community Center last Tuesday night to enjoy a free holiday meal with all the fixings and some good fellowship.
Memorial Highway dedicated to two outstanding officers Former Chief of Police Andy Blizzard and Assoc. Chief of Police Justin Durrett were honored by Oklahoma State legislators and the City of Checotah last month during a Memorial Highway Dedication on Nov. 19. Oklahoma Rep. Tim Turner along with Oklahoma Neil Hays, Senator Bryan Logan and Senator Avery Frix pushed for the memorial signage to forever immortalize these officers’ names for the community they served and the family they left behind. The ceremonial memorial highway is located at the section of U.S. Highway 266 beginning at the intersection of South 4230 Road extending east to the intersection of South 4250 Road east of Checotah.
Shop with a Cop brightens Christmas Dozens of McIntosh County kids were escorted on a Christmas shopping spree by law enforcement officers last week.
In total, 60 kids received a total of $30,000 worth of presents. Each received $350 with which they bought gifts for family members as well as themselves.
This was the 12th annual Shop with a Cop event, which spreads a lot of joy and goodwill among youngsters whose Christmas might not be so bright.
DA Investigator Kevin Branscum expressed his gratitude to all those who donated money for the program.
“Without them, this would not be possible,” he said.
Officers from half a dozen agencies around the county volunteer to help a child, picking them up from school, taking them shopping and then to lunch.
Christmas classics shine in counties lighted parades
Streets were packed down Broadway in Checotah and Main Street in Eufaula as lights sparkled with holiday magic and the county kicked off the holiday season with two annual Lighted Christmas Parades. Both parades drew families and friends downtown for an evening of twinkling lights and community cheer.
Checotah
This year’s theme for Checotah was “The Nutcracker Ballet” which magical floats that included themes from the classic ballet to a real ballerina to even the Rat King making an appearance. As bubbles floated through the air around some amazing floats, real snowflakes began to fall on a mesmerized crowd.
The top three float winners from Checotah’s parade were: First place – Wood Co. Outdoor Living Second place – Checotah PD Third place – Checotah Nursing and Rehab Mullins Automotive Group was the parade float sponsor this year.
Competency hearing set for singer’s killer A competency hearing for Louis Carl Guenther, 68, of Checotah, has been set for 9 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 27.
Guenther is accused of beating and stabbing to death his sister, blues musician Selby Minner, 75, on June 9 at her nightclub/residence in Rentiesville.
Guenther has had several competency hearings since then.
Guenther made his initial appearance in court on Friday, June 13. Associate District Judge Brendon Bridges entered a not guilty plea on behalf of Guenther and ordered him to return to court on July 23 for a competency hearing. He is being held without bond.
