One of the goals El Reno head coach Chuck Atchison has preached numerous times in practice and on game nights has been to change the overall culture around the Indians program.

A culture that believes any football team, no matter what grade, can step out on the field any given night and compete.

It’s no doubt that culture had slipped down to bare bones over the seasons from a 12-1 run in 2009 to when Atchison took over the program after the 2016 season.

Editor's Note: While it is our policy not to run a name unless an arrest has been made or charges filed, we believe this instance warrants the naming of the public official alleged to have been involved.

About a month ago, Gabbi Welch turned to social media to tell how her father was sexually abused over the years, allegedly by a Canadian County lawman.

Her father had recently died and she hoped by telling his story, others might find the courage to come forward.

Funeral services for Elwin Vernice Wood of McAlester were held Friday, Oct. 25, 2019, at Pryor Cemetery Chapel near Stuart with Ira Wood officiating. Burial followed in the Pryor Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Bishop Funeral Service.

Serving as pallbearers were Derek Moery, Dallas Wood, Austin Gordon, Juan Mares Jr., Aaron Kesler and Dale Wimberly.

Elwin passed away Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019, at a local nursing center. She was born July 1, 1926, in Ward Springs to Burl and Lavon (Bayless) Wimberly.

No matter what level of play, every defender has that dream of recovering a football and running it into the end zone for the game-winning touchdown.

El Reno senior Layton Hockersmith is no different.

“I like being around the football for sure. I want to score and I’ve been looking for that scoop-and-score touchdown. I still haven’t found it yet but I hope to get one before my time is done,” said Hockersmith.