The importance of Black History Month

Sports

February 12, 2026

By 918-689-2191 ijsports@cookson.news

Black History Month is a time to recognize, reflect on, and celebrate the profound contributions Black Americans have made to our nation’s history, culture, and progress. It honors stories that have too often been overlooked— and reminds us that American history is incomplete without them.

Black History Month helps preserve the truth of our shared past. From the struggles against slavery and segregation to the fight for civil rights and equal opportunity, it ensures these stories are remembered accurately and passed on to future generations. Remembering history honestly helps communities learn, heal, and grow.

McIntosh County has plenty to celebrate with such strong role models such as J.C. Watts, Tracy Scroggins, Lee Roy, Dewey, and Lucious Selmon. Hope you enjoy my Black History Month Spotlight this month.

1-2-3 break.

Sports Editor

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NFL and Checotah great Tracy Scroggins passes away at age 56

By Rodney Haltom sports EDITOR

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Tracy Scroggins, a standout defensive end and linebacker for the Detroit Lions, and a beloved figure in eastern Oklahoma football, passed away last week in Florida at the age of 56. Born September 11,...

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Plan to attend the Checotah Chamber Banquet

February 12, 2026

Make plans to attend the Checotah Chamber Banquet on Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. at the First Free Will Baptist Family Life Center, located at 713 N. Broadway. This year Tyler Mountain BBQ will be catering the ...

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Shamrocks, sneakers and shenanigans

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The 5th Annual Eufaula Green Run 5K returns Saturday, March 14, inviting runners, walkers and costume-wearers of all ages to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Eufaula way: lakeside, lively and dressed i...

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Locks of love

By SHAUNA BELYEU GENERAL MANAGER

February 12, 2026

Many people drive right past it without even knowing it’s there. Just off the path at Lake Eufaula State Park, a small fountain bubbles, almost unnoticed. But stop for a moment and you’ll see what’s r...

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2026 BLACK HISTORY MONTH THEME: A CENTURY OF BLACK HISTORYCOMMEMORATIONS

By ALMA HARPER GARDENIA ART FEDERATED CLUB

February 12, 2026

February is known as Black History Month. Black History Month started as Negro History Week by Carter G. Woodson in 1826. Dr. Woodson was concerned that the contributions of Black Americans were overl...

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Don Campbell celebrates turning 90

By LADONNA RHODES STAFF WRITER

February 12, 2026

On Saturday, Feb. 7, family and friends of Don Campbell met at the Checotah Community Center to help him celebrate his 90th birthday. The center was buzzing with laughter and stories of yesteryear as ...

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Eufaula Local Livestock Show and Premium Sale set for Feb. 14

February 12, 2026

The Eufaula Local Livestock Show and Premium Sale will be held Saturday, Feb. 14, at the McIntosh County Fairgrounds. The livestock show will begin at 9 a.m., followed by the premium dinner at 5:30 p....

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Abner Haynes

By By Michael Barnes

February 12, 2026

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An Enchanted Night Under the Lights

February 12, 2026

April 11 from 8 p.m. -11 p.m. Prom tickets on sale now in Mrs. Ortiz Room 220 until March 13 for $40. Must be academically eligible to purchase and attend.

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Pet Pantry has new hours of operation

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Due to the overwhelming success of the Paws N Claws Community Pet Pantry new hours of operation will be Monday through Friday AFTERNOONS ONLY from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. This is in efforts to not interfere ...

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18th Annual Chili Cook-Off set for Feb. 28

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It’s time to pull out those famous family chili recipes and see if you have what it takes to win this year’s 18th Annual Chili Cook-Off set for Saturday, Feb. 28 at the First Free Will Baptist Life Ce...