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Lights, camera, action: Local restaurants take center stage
A: Main, news
April 15, 2026
Lights, camera, action: Local restaurants take center stage
By Shauna Belyeu General Manager

Downtown Eufaula had a different kind of energy on April 9 as camera crews, bright lights, and the buzz of excitement rolled into town. The America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow made its stop in Eufaula, turning two beloved local spots into the stars of the day.

The action began at Mama Tig’s Wood Fired Pizza, where the aroma of fresh dough and bold flavors filled the air as filming kicked off mid-morn- ing. Owners Janette and Bob Davis shared their story, one that started with a humble food truck and grew into a local favorite. Customers, curious onlookers, and community supporters gathered to watch as cameras captured not just the food, but the heart behind it.

“Recently hosting America’s Best Restaurants at Mama Tig’s was so much fun! We love being able to show people what we’re about, but we couldn’t do it without this community. Thank you so much for always supporting local and for being the reason we love what we do everyday. We appreciate you loving our pizza as much as we enjoy making it,” Erin Bridges said.

By the afternoon, the spotlight shifted to Tumbleweeds Steakhouse on the Water, where the scenic views of Lake Eufaula provided the perfect backdrop. The Crockett family and their team showcased their signature dishes and hospitality, all while crews filmed interviews and behind-the-scenes moments aboard the one-of-a-kind floating steakhouse.

“We’re incredibly honored that Tumbleweeds Steakhouse on the Water has the opportunity to partner with America’s Best Restaurants and help showcase the heart of Eufaula, Oklahoma. This collaboration is about more than great food, it’s about celebrating the local businesses, hardworking families, and loyal guests who make our lake community so special. We’re grateful for the chance to highlight what makes Eufaula a destination worth experiencing, both on and off the water,” owner Kamatha Crockett said.

Throughout the day, residents had the chance to see firsthand how a national production comes together—from multiple takes and carefully staged shots to candid interviews and community interaction. The atmosphere was equal parts excitement and pride, as locals watched their hometown shine.

The filming is part of America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow, a nationwide series that highlights independently owned restaurants and the stories behind them. Each featured location will receive its own episode, shared across the show’s digital platforms and social media channels.

For Eufaula, Friday wasn’t just about filming— it was about recognition. With two local restaurants in the spotlight, the event showcased not only great food, but the people, passion, and community spirit that make the town special. The road show may be ending, but the flavors of the area are just getting started—there’s a table waiting for you at every turn.

Now, all that’s left is to wait for the episodes to air and for Eufaula to take its place on the national stage.

Airport courtesy car supports local small businesses
A: Main, news
Airport courtesy car supports local small businesses
April 15, 2026
The City of Eufaula is making it easier than ever for visitors to experience everything the community has to offer while creating opportunities for local small businesses to grow and thrive. The airpo...
A: Main, news
Community workshop to offer practical parenting tools in Eufaula
April 15, 2026
Families and educators in the Eufaula area will have the opportunity to gain valuable parenting insights at an upcoming free workshop led by a licensed psychologist. Dr. Randleman, PhD, a licensed psy...
Baughman edges Asher in close Eufaula school board race
A: Main, news
Baughman edges Asher in close Eufaula school board race
By Shauna Belyeu General Manager 
April 15, 2026
The Eufaula Public Schools Board of Education race came down to a tight race last Tuesday, with Amber Michelle Baughman defeating incumbent Martha Jane Asher. Baughman received 178 votes to Asher’s 17...
A: Main, news
Candidate files formal contest in District 1 commissioner race
By Shauna Belyeu General Manager 
April 15, 2026
A dispute has emerged in the race for McIntosh County Commissioner District 1 after a candidate formally challenged the eligibility of a fellow candidate following the April filing period. According t...
Studio 45: A new creative space bringing artists, ideas, and community together in downtown Eufaula.
news
Studio 45: A new creative space bringing artists, ideas, and community together in downtown Eufaula.
By MICHAEL BARNES 
April 15, 2026
On April 12, Studio 45 opened its doors in Eufaula, offering something more than a new venue. It is a place where creativity can gather, take form, and begin to take shape. Just off Main Street on Sel...
Why Local Publications Still Matter
news
Why Local Publications Still Matter
By ALICE CANADA 
April 15, 2026
Welcome back to Marketing on Main Street. If this is your first time joining us, you can find past columns on the Cookson Hills Publishers blog at Cookson. News. In this series, we focus on practical ...
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Lake Eufaula State Park April Activities
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Lake Eufaula State Park April Activities
April 15, 2026
Tuesday, April 14 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Citizen Science Day Stop by the nature center and learn what citizen science is and how you can be a part of it. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. | Citizen Science Activities Jo...
news
City of Eufaula Launches Business & Tourism Impact Survey
April 15, 2026
The City of Eufaula is inviting local businesses to participate in a new Business & Tourism Impact Survey aimed at better understanding how tourism affects day-to-day operations and overall economic a...
Under control or under construction
commentary
Under control or under construction
April 15, 2026
Is your life under control or under construction? If it’s under control then it’s managed, restrained, regulated and disciplined. People who manage their emotions stay composed, calm, steady and have ...
news
Chamber to host Annual Banquet and awards ceremony
April 15, 2026
The Eufaula Area Chamber of Commerce will host its Annual Banquet and Awards this Thursday, April 16, at 6 p.m. at Dobber’s Roadhouse in Longtown. Attendees are invited to come out east and have a goo...
Shelbie Frank pages at the Capitol
commentary
Shelbie Frank pages at the Capitol
By Rep. Turner 
April 15, 2026
Shelbie Frank, a junior at Canadian High School, paged in my Capitol office this week. We actually had three pages from Canadian High School, but two of them served in Rep. Jim Grego’s office. Shelbie...
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