Growing up in a Nazarene Church in Arkansas, Nick Phillips had two constant influences directing him to what he thought would be his future career path – his faith and a love for music.

“I felt the calling to be a music worship leader in a church,” said Phillips.

As it turns out, God had different plans for the Little Rock native.

He shared his thoughts about his career choice with his youth pastor at Brockington Road Church of the Nazarene. Little did Phillips know that his religious mentor was a part-time teacher and that this conversation would be a life-changer.

A decision on whether to increase the Canadian County sheriff’s base salary as allowed by state statute is expected next week.

County commissioners voted 2-1 to table for one week action related to county officers salary range.

Sheriff Chris West, citing a growing challenge to recruit and retain deputies, has asked commissioners to approve a resolution that would increase the sheriff’s base salary to $74,500.

El Reno will celebrate the Christmas season with the annual Downtown Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 7, and will follow that up a week later with The Holly Jolly Trolley.

Christmas in the Movies is the parade theme for the annual event. It's a fitting nod to the impact the movie Twisters is expected to have.

El Reno was featured in the dramatic ending of the movie, much of which was filmed in the downtown in the summer of 2023.

The movie has already helped lure tour bus groups to town.

The parade, put on by Main Street, is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.

It’s officially Christmas time! I think we are the only house in our neighborhood not decorated for Christmas. I’m working on it. I figure Jesus’ birthday isn’t until Dec. 25 so I have some time. 

Congrats to El Reno on being named as the official birthplace of the fried-onion hamburger! Go check out the sign at Mother Road Plaza. That’s good stuff!