While they might not fit the common mold as a frontline fighter in the battle to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the work being done by the El Reno Public Schools food service team is nothing short of heroic.

Friday is School Lunch Hero Day across the nation, but for the 18 people making up the El Reno team, it’s another day to serve a greater need.

Seamstresses are being called during the COVID-19 pandemic to use their skills and talent for a new trend in modern-day fashion … facial masks.

The moment COVID-19 became widespread and caused a shortage in medical supplies worldwide, many seamstresses and first-time sewers found themselves in a position not only to help but also share their sewing experience with others.

Residents at Saint Katharine Drexel Retirement Center were treated last week to a drive-thru circus, compliments of Physicians Choice Hospice. The parade of cars pulled through a parking lot at the center, led by an El Reno police cruiser. Clowns and plenty of balloons and bubbles filled the air. Saint Katharine’s, like other long-term care homes, is locked down because of COVID-19.

El Reno police are looking for a white four-door car in connection with the shooting of a man Sunday evening.

Assistant Police Chief Kirk Dickerson said officers were called to the Elms Apartments, 1200 West Elm, just before 6 p.m. after a man called saying he had been shot. Officers found Terrance E. Rednose, 36, of El Reno at the scene. He was treated there for a gunshot wound and later was taken to an area hospital for further treatment.

Officers said the shooting actually took place in the 800 block of South Frances.