City of Sand Springs announces Community Survey

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs announces the latest Community Survey, now being made available for residents of Sand Springs. The 2020 survey is an update of a previous survey completed five years ago which identified citizen feedback on items ranging from public safety to park priorities. City officials experienced a strong response from the public then, and incorporated those survey results into the City’s comprehensive plan- a major planning tool which aides in policy and decision making for the city.

“The community survey is an important tool for engaging our citizens. It provides vital feedback on the wants, desires and preferences of the community. Results from this survey will be used to help create long term goals and actions plans that will improve the city in the future”, stated the City’s Planning Director Brad Bates.

The Community Survey can be accessed in several ways for citizens to participate. The survey can be found online at: www.sandspringsok.org/556/community-survey-2020 A link to the survey will also be shown on the City’s Facebook page. Citizens can also request a printed hard copy M-F at the office of the City Planner at 100 E. Broadway in downtown Sand Springs, and simply return the completed survey to that office.

“Information gathered from this important survey will be incorporated into our comprehensive plan by creating priorities and action plans that can be carried out by staff and council to improve our entire community”, added Bates.

To add interest, the City will be conducting door prize drawings from survey respondents. Three randomly selected winners will receive prizes including a Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf experience and gift cards in the Sand Springs community for great food and shopping.

The deadline to submit your Community Survey is Monday, November 23, 2020.

Sand Springs cuts ribbon on Zackery Park, Mayor Spoon proclaims Bessie Crawford Zackery Day

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The City of Sand Springs held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony at its newest park Thursday morning. City employees, elected officials, and family and friends of Bessie Crawford Zackery gathered to celebrate the commemorative park. Mayor Jim Spoon proclaimed August 13th as Bessie Crawford Zackery Day in honor of the late Sand Springs teacher.

Located at 100 West Alexander Boulevard, Zackery Park will serve as a reminder of the historic black neighborhood that once stood in what is now the River West shopping district. The small park is named for the Zackery family who lived in the area when it was still residential, and in particular for Bessie Crawford Zackery, who was a teacher in Sand Springs.

Bessie Zackery was class valedictorian at the Sand Springs Booker T. Washington High School in 1934, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Langston University. She returned to Sand Springs and taught Art and Elementary Education at Booker T. Washington. Zackery reportedly spent summers at Colorado State Teachers College, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa taking graduate courses to keep Washington on the cutting edge. Zackery earned a Master’s of Teaching Arts from TU in 1959.

After 28 years at Washington, Zackery transferred to Limestone Elementary for the remainder of her career. She was named the Sand Springs Education Association 1978 Teacher of the Year, the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association 1981 Outstanding Alumnus, and the 1996 Sand Springs Hometown Hero. The Sand Springs Retired Educators Association and Oklahoma Retired Educators Association named her a Very Important Member, and in 1999 she was awarded the Ageless Hero Award by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.

Zackery Park is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Booker T. Washington Avenue. The pedestrian sidewalk within the area has been named “Rambler Way” in honor of the Washington High School mascot.

There is a large detention pond adjacent to the park, and staff recently installed a fountain in the middle. A steel trellis was installed, along with a seat wall made from brick pavers that were salvaged from the old Booker T. Washington High School. There is also a concrete plaza and decorative plants, and informational signage will soon be installed.

The River West area is part of a revitalization effort by the City and was formerly one of the oldest and poorest residential neighborhoods in Sand Springs. The primarily African American district was demolished in the late 2000s, with the former Booker T. Washington High School coming down in 2010. Centennial Baptist Church is the last remnant of the historic community.

Since then, the district has added a new hotel, a minor emergency clinic, a TTCU branch, restaurants, a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a Starbucks. There is also a small strip center being constructed, and only a few plots of land are still available.

The community has already been memorialized in the naming of its two arterial streets. Booker T. Washington Avenue was named for the high school, while Alexander Boulevard was named for Albert Alexander. Alexander reportedly immigrated to Sand Springs following the 1921 massacre of black citizens in Tulsa. His obituary reads that Alexander was “the unofficial mayor of the black section of segregated Sand Springs because of the respect that both sides of the railroad tracks had for him.”

The Sand Springs Parks Department has several other projects underway around the city. The disc golf course in Case Community Park is getting a redesign by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins. The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course is getting a major clubhouse remodel. There is a visitors’ center being constructed at the Keystone Ancient Forest, and an observation tower will be installed in the near future.

Sand Springs to hold grand opening of Zackery Park on August 13th

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City of Sand Springs employees, elected officials, and guests will gather August 13th at 10:00 a.m. to cut the ribbon on the city’s newest park.

Located at 100 West Alexander Boulevard, Zackery Park will serve as a reminder of the historic black neighborhood that once stood in what is now the River West shopping district. The small park is named for the Zackery family who lived in the area when it was still residential, and in particular for Bessie Crawford Zackery, who was a teacher in Sand Springs. Mayor Jim Spoon will also read a mayoral proclamation recognizing the day as Bessie Crawford Zackery Day.

Bessie Zackery was class valedictorian at the Sand Springs Booker T. Washington High School in 1934, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Langston University. She returned to Sand Springs and taught Art and Elementary Education at Booker T. Washington. Zackery reportedly spent summers at Colorado State Teachers College, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa taking graduate courses to keep Washington on the cutting edge. Zackery earned a Master’s of Teaching Arts from TU in 1959.

After 28 years at Washington, Zackery transferred to Limestone Elementary for the remainder of her career. She was named the Sand Springs Education Association 1978 Teacher of the Year, the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association 1981 Outstanding Alumnus, and the 1996 Sand Springs Hometown Hero. The Sand Springs Retired Educators Association and Oklahoma Retired Educators Association named her a Very Important Member, and in 1999 she was awarded the Ageless Hero Award by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.

Zackery Park is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Booker T. Washington Avenue. The pedestrian sidewalk within the area will also be named “Rambler Way” in honor of the Washington High School mascot.

There is currently a large detention pond adjacent to the park, and staff recently installed a fountain in the middle. A steel trellis was recently installed, along with a seat wall made from brick pavers that were salvaged from the old Booker T. Washington High School. There will also be a concrete plaza, informational signage, and decorative plants.

The River West area is part of a revitalization effort by the City and was formerly one of the oldest and poorest residential neighborhoods in Sand Springs. The primarily African American district was demolished in the late 2000s, with the former Booker T. Washington High School coming down in 2010. Centennial Baptist Church is the last remnant of the historic community.

Since then, the district has added a new hotel, a minor emergency clinic, a TTCU branch, restaurants, a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a Starbucks. There is also a small strip center being constructed, and only a few plots of land are still available.

The community has already been memorialized in the naming of its two arterial streets. Booker T. Washington Avenue was named for the high school, while Alexander Boulevard was named for Albert Alexander. Alexander reportedly immigrated to Sand Springs following the 1921 massacre of black citizens in Tulsa. His obituary reads that Alexander was “the unofficial mayor of the black section of segregated Sand Springs because of the respect that both sides of the railroad tracks had for him.”

The Sand Springs Parks Department has several other projects underway around the city. The disc golf course in Case Community Park is getting a redesign by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins. The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course is getting a major clubhouse remodel. There is a visitors’ center being constructed at the Keystone Ancient Forest, and an observation tower will be installed in the near future.

Work underway at new Sand Springs park

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Sand Springs Parks staff have been hard at work on a new park in the RiverWest Shopping Center. Zackery Park will be named for the Zachery family who lived in the area when it was still residential, and in particular for Bessie Zackery, who was a teacher in Sand Springs.

Bessie Zackery was class valedictorian at the Sand Springs Booker T. Washington High School in 1934, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Langston University. She returned to Sand Springs and taught Art and Elementary Education at Booker T. Washington. Zackery reportedly spent summers at Colorado State Teachers College, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa taking graduate courses to keep Washington on the cutting edge. Zackery earned a Master’s of Teaching Arts from TU in 1959.

After 28 years at Washington, Zackery transferred to Limestone Elementary for the remainder of her career. She was named the Sand Springs Education Association 1978 Teacher of the Year, the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association 1981 Outstanding Alumnus, and the 1996 Sand Springs Hometown Hero. The Sand Springs Retired Educators Association and Oklahoma Retired Educators Association named her a Very Important Member, and in 1999 she was awarded the Ageless Hero Award by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.

Zackery Park is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Booker T. Washington Avenue. The pedestrian sidewalk within the area will also be named “Rambler Way” in honor of the Washington High School mascot.

There is currently a large detention pond adjacent to the park, and staff recently installed a fountain in the middle that will soon be activated. There will also be floating LED lights around the fountain. A steel trellis was recently installed, along with a seat wall made from brick pavers that were salvaged from the old Booker T. Washington High School. There will also be a concrete plaza, informational signage, and decorative plants.

The RiverWest area is part of a revitalization effort by the City and was formerly one of the oldest and poorest residential neighborhoods in Sand Springs. The primarily African American district was demolished in the late 2000s, with the former Booker T. Washington High School coming down in 2010. Centennial Baptist Church is the last remnant of the historic community.

Since then, the district has added a new hotel, a minor emergency clinic, a TTCU branch, restaurants, a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a Starbucks. There is also a small strip center being constructed, and only a few plots of land are still available.

The community has already been memorialized in the naming of its two arterial streets. Booker T. Washington Avenue was named for the high school, while Alexander Boulevard was named for Albert Alexander. Alexander reportedly immigrated to Sand Springs following the 1921 massacre of black citizens in Tulsa. His obituary reads that Alexander was “the unofficial mayor of the black section of segregated Sand Springs because of the respect that both sides of the railroad tracks had for him.”

The Sand Springs Parks Department has several other projects underway around the city. The disc golf course in Case Community Park is getting a redesign by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins. The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course is getting a major clubhouse remodel. There is a visitors’ center being constructed at the Keystone Ancient Forest, and an observation tower will be installed in the near future. New sidewalks are being poured in Case Community Park, and the parking lot at the park’s largest playground is being improved.

City of Sand Springs issues Shelter in Place order

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Sand Springs Mayor Jim Spoon issued an updated “shelter in place” proclamation for the City of Sand Springs, effective on April 1, 2020, as follows:

“Based on the expanding crisis, it is important for the residents of Sand Springs to exercise extreme caution in their contact with others and to only be in public if necessary. While a number of businesses have been defined as essential by the Governor, I am also asking each essential business owner to take even more safeguards than have been required by the State, including closing if possible, for the safety of their employees and families, so that we can get through this event. It is important that we do everything possible to protect each other. If we do not see improvement, I am very concerned that additional restrictions may be necessary.”

Proclamation Declaring State of Emergency

WHEREAS, a proclamation declaring a state of emergency was issued by the Mayor of the City of Sand Springs on March 17, 2020, by virtue of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) global pandemic; and

WHEREAS, a proclamation requesting voluntary business closing was issued by the Mayor of the City of Sand Springs on March 18, 2020, encouraging restaurants, bars, and other privately owned gathering places to limit the number of patrons and to encourage the transition to “take-out” or delivery options.

WHEREAS, a number of local businesses have implemented changes that provide protection to the public; however the Tulsa County Health Department has requested the City of Sand Springs take additional measures to protect the public, as the threat has not only continued but expanded within Tulsa County, resulting in additional exposure, illness and death.

WHEREAS, since the emergency declaration, the disease has continued to spread in multiple locations throughout the United States and the State of Oklahoma, resulting in additional protective measures imposed by Federal, State and local governments; and

WHEREAS, the state declared emergency for the State of Oklahoma is continuing; and

WHEREAS, the City of Tulsa and other municipalities have imposed executive orders with mandatory limits for certain businesses in an attempt to limit social contact; and

WHEREAS, the Governor of the State of Oklahoma issued an executive order on March 24, 2020, effective March 25, 2020, that provides additional direction to the residents of Tulsa County and other affected counties within the State of Oklahoma, said executive order confirming and further enforcing the prior proclamations issued by the Mayor of the City of Sand Springs;

WHEREAS, based on the Governor’s orders, additional direction to local residents and businesses will assist all in having an appropriate response to the continuing threat; and

WHEREAS, practicing such methods such as social distancing is believed to stop the spread of COVID-19; and

WHEREAS, the spread of COVID-19 is a disaster affecting life, health, and safety of Sand Springs residents of the City of Sand Springs and create an emergency situation within the meaning of Section 683.3 of the Oklahoma Emergency Act of 2003, as amended;

NOW, THEREFORE BY VIRTUE OF THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN ME BY THE CITY CHARTER AND STATE LAW, I, JAMES O. SPOON, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAND SPRINGS, OKLAHOMA, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM AND DECLARE:

SECTION ONE: The previously declared state of emergency is continuing pursuant to the original proclamation.

SECTION TWO: All citizens living in or visiting the City of Sand Springs are ordered to shelter at their place of residence. For the purpose of this Order, residences include homes, apartments, condominiums, dormitories, hotels, motels, shared rentals, and similar facilities and accommodations. All persons may leave their residences only for Essential Activities as defined herein, or to provide or perform Essential Governmental Functions as defined by the government performing the function, or to operate Essential Businesses as defined by the Governor of the State of Oklahoma, or his designee:

For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence only to perform any of the following “Essential Activities”:

  1. To engage in activities, perform tasks, or obtain supplies essential to their health and safety, or to the health and safety of their family, household members, or pets (for example, obtaining necessary medical supplies, medication, food and beverage, or other products necessary to maintain safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residence, visiting a health care professional, obtaining supplies needed to work from home, or performing property maintenance).

  2. To engage in outdoor activity, provided that individuals, except those from the same household, must comply with physical distancing requirements of six feet (for example, walking, biking, hiking, or running).

  3. To perform work at an Essential Business.

  4. To care for or transport a family member or pet in another household.

  5. To move for another residence either in or outside of the City of Sand Springs.

All in-person gatherings for social, and recreational purposes, including but not limited to community, civic, public, leisure, or sporting events; parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers and similar activities of ten or more persons are prohibited.

SECTION THREE: All restaurants, bars, and other privately owned gathering places and other dine-in service areas shall be closed to the public until the expiration of this emergency declaration, although “pick-up” and delivery service may remain open to the public and is encouraged until the expiration of this emergency declaration.

SECTION FOUR: No business shall remain open to the public and/or conducting transactions with the general public upon their premises unless specifically designated by the City of Sand Springs as an essential business. A list of essential businesses may be viewed at https://www.sandspringsok.org/COVID-19 or in person at 100 E. Broadway in the public notice display on the north side of the building. Businesses may appeal their designation status through the (Chief of Police Office or City Clerk’s Office).

SECTION FIVE: To the extent possible during this emergency, the City of Sand Springs shall devote resources, as available, to assist not only local residents, but the business community to react and adjust to the continuing threat, including but not limited to assistance with continuing business operations as appropriate.

SECTION SIX: All persons are encouraged to take precautions available to assist in alleviating the spread of the virus. All businesses should comply with all CDC and health department regulations and directives. Failure to comply may result in revocation of a business certificate of occupancy or any other legal remedy available.

SECTION SEVEN: This proclamation shall become effective 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, April 1st, 2020.

SECTION EIGHT: This state of emergency shall continue until 12:01 a.m. May 11, 2020 or terminated earlier by further proclamation.

PROCLAIMED THIS 1ST DAY OF APRIL, 2020.

Chick-fil-A confirms new Sand Springs location

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The City of Sand Springs has been developing new land and beautifying the city to try and attract new businesses in recent years. Pictured here is the entrance to the new Sheffield Crossing development, where the City hopes to attract a large box store.

The City of Sand Springs announced Wednesday the upcoming arrival of national restaurant retailer Chick-fil-A to Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs. The announcement comes immediately following the successful closing at the city-owned site. Following construction, which should commence in early 2020, Chick-fil-A says the new restaurant will be open late 2020

“While we are still early in the process, Chick-fil-A is happy to share that we have chosen our first location in the Sand Springs area,” reads the short statement. “We look forward to working through the approval process with the city and are excited by the prospect of joining this vibrant community. We hope to have the opportunity to serve new guests delicious food in an environment of genuine hospitality.”

Chick-fil-A is a quick service restaurant known for its original chicken sandwich and signature hospitality. Part of the way they achieve this hospitality is through local ownership of its restaurants. The Sand Springs Operator will not only work in the community, but also live in the area as well. Chick-fil-A Operators look for opportunities to creatively serve and have a positive impact on their local communities.

This announcement is the first of what the City hopes will be many more updates as work continues at the Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs site. With more than 80,000 vehicles passing by daily and a trade area of 100,000 customers, this retail site is one of the best in the N.W. Tulsa metro region. Land adjacent to the Chick-fil-A site is also ready for retail development.

Success at the Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs development area has been based on several key partnerships, which helped build support and gain momentum. Leaders at OmniTRAX (previous owners of the industrial site) worked collaboratively with the City of Sand Springs to plan for future development. Sand Springs voters passed a 2017 General Obligation Bond measure securing revenue to be used on economic development projects within the community. Without the support of leadership from our City Council, OmniTRAX and from Sand Springs voters, the site would likely remain in its former state.

“We wish to express our deep appreciation to the voters of Sand Springs, OmniTRAX, ODOT, and the many other partners we’ve worked with along the way to help make this announcement possible,” said James O. Spoon, Mayor of Sand Springs. “Our council and staff have worked diligently for many years to share exciting news such as this, and we look forward to providing more good news from Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs in the future.”

Additionally, the City would like to acknowledge the help of Orion Realty Advisors, Tri-Star Construction, and O.D.O.T. Special recognition should be given to Tri-Star Construction, who (as part of a $1.7M construction contract) constructed an entry road, highway turn lane, traffic signals and all public utilities necessary to serve the development and the Chick-fil-A pad site.

In the months ahead City staff will be examining preliminary layout options for the site including infrastructure, utilities, grading and drainage. Much work will be happening at the site in 2020 to coordinate additional improvements, planned by O.D.O.T. in the years ahead along the Highway 97 corridor.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit www.sandspringsok.org and follow the City’s social media on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Inquiries regarding Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs may contact City Manager Elizabeth Gray at 918-246-2502 or eagray@sandsprings ok.org.

The Atlanta-based company currently operates 47 locations in Oklahoma, including nine in the Tulsa Metropolitan area. They have 2,500 restaurants throughout the United States and Canada.

Sand Springs has been pushing hard for economic growth in recent years, developing two City-owned properties in the Highway 412 corridor. The River West Shopping Center has attracted a Holiday Inn Express, Colton’s Steak House, El Maguey Mexican Restaurant, Warren Clinic, ALDI, Starbucks, CVS, and IHOP.

The City has plans for numerous infrastructure and aesthetic improvements throughout the City. A main-street extension is currently in the works that will connect Main Street to Highway 97 right before the Arkansas River bridge, and will add a frontage road connecting Main Street to the Highway 412 on-ramp at Lincoln Avenue. The City is also negotiating with OmniTRAX to purchase a 7-to-10-acre tract for a proposed roadway over the Arkansas River/Highway 97 levee that separates Case Community Park from the Sheffield Crossing development.

At Monday night’s regular City Council meeting, Council approved an $84,000 investment in tree-planting and landscaping along the highway corridors to improve the aesthetic appeal of the City in the eyes of potential investors and developers. A wall is currently being constructed around the City’s water treatment plant at the corner of Highway 97 and Morrow Road, which will also feature decorative landscaping to shield the public’s view of the facilities.

Cyber Monday deals on Sandite Pride photography - average markdown of 22%

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Sandite Pride News will be marking down our photography collection by an average of 22% in recognition of the Cyber Monday holiday shopping event. All day Monday, December 2nd, from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., discounts will be available on prints, downloads, wall art, and keepsakes.

Sandite Pride’s photo galleries include high school sports (basketball, football, softball, volleyball, etc.), community events (Boo at Case Park, Great Raft Race, Meet the Sandites, Chillin & Grillin, Herbal Affair, etc.), and government meetings (Board of Education, City Council).

Our SmugMug photo site offers paper prints ranging in size from wallets to 30x50 inches, canvases, metal art, refrigerator magnets, coffee mugs, photo panels, keepsake boxes, puzzles, buttons, luggage tags, mouse pads, coasters, postcards, playing cards and more.

High resolution single-photo downloads will be discounted from $2.00 to $1.50.

4x6 paper prints will be discounted from $1.28 to $1.00.

16x20 paper prints will be discounted from $34.80 to $27.27.

5x7 traditional canvas prints will be marked down from $110.24 to $95.34.

16x20 high gloss metal wall hangings will be discounted from $164.32 to $128.79.

Large refrigerator magnets will be discounted from $15.13 to $11.86.

Mouse pads will be discounted from $17.30 to $13.56.

6x6 ceramic tiles will be discounted from $26.01 to $20.39.

Coaster sets will be discounted from $43.42 to $34.03.

Sand Springs City Council approves new park in historic African American district

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The Sand Springs City Council recently approved a new park to be located in the RiverWest Shopping Center. Zackery Park will be named for the Zachery family who lived in the area when it was still residential, and in particular for Bessie Zackery, who was a teacher in Sand Springs.

Bessie Zackery was class valedictorian at the Sand Springs Booker T. Washington High School in 1934, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Langston University. She returned to Sand Springs and taught Art and Elementary Education at Booker T. Washington. Zackery reportedly spent summers at Colorado State Teachers College, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa taking graduate courses to keep Washington on the cutting edge. Zackery earned a Master’s of Teaching Arts from TU in 1959.

After 28 years at Washington, Zackery transferred to Limestone Elementary for the remainder of her career. She was named the Sand Springs Education Association 1978 Teacher of the Year, the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association 1981 Outstanding Alumnus, and the 1996 Sand Springs Hometown Hero. The Sand Springs Retired Educators Association and Oklahoma Retired Educators Association named her a Very Important Member, and in 1999 she was awarded the Ageless Hero Award by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.

Zackery Park will be located at the southwest intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Booker T. Washington Avenue. The pedestrian sidewalk within the area will also be named “Rambler Way” in honor of the Washington High School mascot. There is currently a large pond adjacent to the future park, which is part decorative and part stormwater retention. The park will feature a steel trellis, informational signs, a concrete plaza, plants, and decorative masonry.

The RiverWest area is part of a revitalization effort by the City and was formerly one of the oldest and poorest residential neighborhoods in Sand Springs. The primarily African American district was demolished in the late 2000s, with the former Booker T. Washington High School coming down in 2010. Centennial Baptist Church is the last remnant of the historic community.

Since then, the district has added a new hotel, a minor emergency clinic, restaurants, a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a Starbucks. There are also a small strip center and a Tulsa Teachers Credit Union branch being constructed, with only a few portions of land still available.

The community has already been memorialized in the naming of its two arterial streets. Booker T. Washington Avenue was named for the high school, while Alexander Boulevard was named for Albert Alexander. Alexander reportedly immigrated to Sand Springs following the 1921 massacre of black citizens in Tulsa. His obituary reads that Alexander was “the unofficial mayor of the black section of segregated Sand Springs because of the respect that both sides of the railroad tracks had for him.”

Council also considered the name Marques Haynes Park, in honor of the Booker T. Washington alumnus and Harlem Globetrotter. The Sand Springs section of Highway 97 is already named Marques Haynes Memorial Highway.

In other news:

Council approved a specific use permit for a Medical Marijuana Dispensary at 430 West Wekiwa Road in the Cimarron Plaza shopping center. Herbal Cure, Inc. is owned by Adeel Nasir and already has one location in Okmulgee.

Council approved a permit for a Marijuana Growing Facility at 411 South Lincoln Avenue. XGrows, LLC will be located in the Morrow Gill Business Park.

Council approved a $41,500 contract with GH2 Architects for a full HVAC analysis and bidding for replacement of HVAC at the Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum.

Council approved a $26,608.00 expenditure to remanufacture a submersible WEMCO-Hidrostal wastewater pump and motor that recently failed at the Sand Springs Wastewater Treatment Plant. Replacing the 2001 unit with a newer model would cost approximately $80,000.00.

Council approved the hiring of Guy Engineering to perform ODOT-funded inspections on Sand Springs bridges for the next two years.

Council approved the use of a $96,303.00 Tulsa County Community Development Block Grant to replace a deteriorated 4” cast iron water line with a new 8” PVC water line along the west side of North Lincoln Avenue between 4th Street and 6th Street.

Council approved a specific use permit for a synagogue at 1124 East Charles Page Boulevard. Sar Shalom Synagogue previously opened in August of this year.

Council approved an $11,100.34 increase to an existing $71,569.62 contract with Garrow Construction. Garrow recently completed rehabilitation of the Lost City (L20) sanitary sewer lift station that was damaged by spring flooding.

Sand Springs City Council names new commercial development

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The Sand Springs City Council voted on the naming of the new commercial development on the site of the former Sheffield Steel Mill at their regular Monday meeting. The City has been prepping the 18-acre development for the past year since purchasing the land from OmniTRAX, and decided Monday to name the area Sheffield Plaza.

The commercial development was initially begun by OmniTRAX, who intended to spearhead the construction of a shopping center by the name of Sheffield Crossing. The company later decided to focus on the railroad and industrial development, but agreed to sell 18 acres of Highway 97 frontage to the City.

Because OmniTRAX owns the name Sheffield Crossing, and is still using it to refer to their operations immediately behind the development, the City had to find a new name. They were, however, given permission to use the word “Sheffield.” In a 5-1 vote, Council decided on Sheffield Plaza. Brian Jackson, Phil Nollan, Mike Burdge, Nancy Riley, and Patty Dixon were in favor, and Beau Wilson dissented. Mayor Jim Spoon was absent from the meeting.

Other names considered included “Sheffield Landing,” “Mill Landing,” “Mill Road Plaza,” “Mill Plaza,” and the “Shoppes at Sheffield Crossing.” “The Shoppes at Sheffield Crossing” was deemed inappropriate because the City is primarily hoping to attract a large box store, which wouldn’t leave much room for smaller shops. 

Council also voted unanimously on “Huskey Boulevard” as the street name for the Highway 97 entrance to the development. The name is in honor of former Assistant Chief of Police Jesse Huskey, who is the only Sand Springs Police Officer to ever lose his life in the line of duty. The entrance to the development is expected to be completed by November 30th.

Other names submitted included “Steel Mill Road,” “Mill Avenue,” “Sheffield Street,” “River Road,” and “Armco Avenue.” Those names will remain on the table for additional roads that will likely be constructed within the development in the future.

Sand Springs is hoping to attract a lumber/hardware store to Sheffield Plaza, but is open to any prospective businesses. The property is in the most highly-trafficked section of Sand Springs, with visibility from both Highway 97 and Highway 412.

Council also unanimously approved an amended agreement with Axon for police video services. The agreement will see a $40,950 increase to an existing contract over a four-year period, and will allow the Police Department to store all body camera and dashboard camera footage indefinitely. While the department does flag video for indefinite storage in cases where they expect there may be need of it, the bulk of the department’s video is deleted after six months.

“I think what’s very important is to at least keep (all footage) for two years, because that’s the statute of limitations on bringing a claim in federal court against the City if someone were to feel something we’ve done is wrong,” said Police Chief Mike Carter.

Carter painted a hypothetical scenario in which a parent or guardian might not become aware of a law enforcement interaction with their child until months after the fact, such as a minor traffic stop. He also pointed to a recent DUI case that the City lost in court due to footage that was automatically deleted.

“In this case that we lost, it happened that the person didn’t show up for court, there was a warrant out for awhile. It was a simple first offense DUI…the video got deleted because it wasn’t something that rose to the level that the officer felt that he needed to retain it.”

“That being said, that wasn’t the biggest reason that we wanted to do this,” said Carter. “We want the truth on every case to be shown. We don’t want people to feel that we’re ever not being open or transparent. In my estimation, video is one the of the great things that has happened in law enforcement.”

In other news:

Vice-Mayor Patty Dixon presented a Mayoral Proclamation to the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce, proclaiming November 30th, 2019 as Small Business Saturday in Sand Springs. Small Business Saturday is a national movement encouraging holiday shoppers to visit small, locally owned operations on the weekend of Black Friday in order to stimulate the local economy. Chamber President Kristin Cepak received the proclamation.

Council unanimously approved an interlocal agreement gifting a 1990 E-One Stratosphere Quint Fire Ladder Truck to the neighboring town of Mannford. Sand Springs recently purchased a new ladder truck and no longer has regular need for the 30-year old model. The agreement also allows for Sand Springs to request the truck in the event that extra help is needed. “I can’t thank you guys enough on behalf of the City of Mannford,” said visiting Mayor Tyler Buttram.

Council unanimously approved a resolution calling for an election in Wards 3 and 4. Those seats are currently occupied by Burdge and Riley, respectively. The filing period will be from December 2-4 and candidates can file their declaration of candidacy with the City Clerk between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.  – 5:00 p.m.

Council unanimously approved the purchase of 20 Motorola APX 900 Portable Radios for the Parks and Public Works departments, at a cost of $39,992.65.

Council unanimously approved a Utility Easement Encroachment Agreement with the Villas at Stone Creek Estates. McGuire Brothers Construction recently completed the installation of 1,447 linear feet of 8-inch SDR-35 PVC and 81 linear feet of 8-inch C-900 PVC sanitary sewer pipe at a cost of $103,429.

Council unanimously approved a Specific Use Permit to allow a Medical Marijuana Processing facility at an existing dispensary. Harvest Health Dispensary opened at 1104 West Wekiwa Road in April of 2019 and has been working toward processing in-house.

Council unanimously approved the Sand Springs Pogue Airport 5-year Capital Improvement Projects Plan, which is submitted annually to the Federal Aviation Administration and Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission.

Council unanimously approved the City Council 2020 Meeting Schedule.

Council unanimously approved a resolution affirming dilapidation public nuisance administrative hearing findings and authorizing the demolition of a vacant residential building at 213 ½ North Industrial Avenue. The City has been working with property owners since February of 2018 to have the secondary building repaired, but work has not progressed. It is currently deemed unfit for human occupancy, and due to its location, is at risk of being occupied by vagrants.

Council unanimously approved an ordinance switching the collection of hotel/motel tax from City staff to the Oklahoma Tax Commission. The City currently levies a 7% excise tax on hotel/motel gross receipts for the purpose of promoting economic development, cultural enhancement, and tourism. The OTC will assume responsibility for collecting the taxes on behalf of the city.

The Municipal Authority meeting convened following City Council. Trustees approved an amendment to an agreement for engineering services with Tetra Tech for the design and construction services for a second One Way Surge Tank in the Skiatook Raw Water Conveyance System. Sand Springs will fund 60% of the $31,500 contract, with Sapulpa funding 40%. Trustees approved a resolution authorizing the acquisition of five new easements to aid the Municipal Authority raw water line.

Trustees unanimously voted to award a $1,039,000 bid to GH2 Architects for renovations at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course clubhouse. The funding was approved by voters in a 2018 general obligation bond election. GH2 had the lowest of six bids.

Trustees also awarded a $570,402.84 bid to Heckenkemper Golf Course Design for the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge course improvements. Heckenkemper had the lowest of two bids. The funding for the project will also come from a 2018 GO Bond.

Sand Springs American Shaman celebrates Grand Opening under new ownership with free concert

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The Sand Springs location of the American Shaman CBD franchise is celebrating their Grand Re-Opening Saturday with a ribbon cutting and free festivities.

The store opened in 2018 but is now under the ownership of Matthew Boyd, who also operates locations in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Ponca City, and Edmond. The franchise is based out of Mission, Kansas.

American Shaman sells ultra-concentrated Cannabidiol (CBD) oil derived from hemp. According to CBD advocates, the oil can relieve stress and treat countless physical ailments, including seizures, migraines, and more. CBD does not include Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and you cannot get high from the substance. Customers must be 18 or older to purchase CBD products, but do not require a prescription.

The Sand Springs store will be holding a free concert with local Tulsa country artist Travis Kidd from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. with a bounce house and the Curbside Comfort food truck. American Shaman is located at 630 East Charles Page Boulevard in the Atwoods shopping center.

Sand Springs Citywide Garage Sale event set for September 21st

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs announces plans for a Citywide Garage Sale, happening on Saturday, September 21st . The event is FREE and open to the public. To learn more about listing your Sand Springs area garage sale, or to research addresses you plan to visit simply go to the “big map” listing. The map can be found at: https://arcg.is/Gqajv

The map is the creation of the City’s Public Works GIS Division, and allows users to add their Sand Springs (area) street address to the site via computer or cell phone. Once added, each garage sale destination appears on the map with an icon for shoppers to find. The map is active now and will remain available to users until after the event is complete.

“We not only want to offer this map product to our citizens to enjoy, but hope to alert nearby Oklahomans to visit our community”, stated Grant Gerondale, Community Development Director for the City. “Where else might you find dozens and dozens of super garage sales in one easy stop, using one map?”

The GIS map/software product was designed by staff at the Public Works Department office and has been used for several years. The City points out that some cell phone platforms may not interact with the GIS map product as well as others, and suggest using a traditional PC platform to print off and use the map on the big day if you are experiencing any problems.

“While you’re looking for that rare find on September 21st ,” Gerondale added, “we wish to remind visitors to enjoy the Sand Springs community. While you’re here, you can enjoy a local restaurant, visit one of our great splash pads or parks or maybe check out the open hike event at the Keystone Ancient Forest before you return home.”

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit www.sandspringsok.org and follow the City’s social media on Face Book and Instagram for the latest updates.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church preparing for 59th Annual Tulsa Greek Festival

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Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church is gearing up for its 59th Annual Greek Festival next month in Tulsa. The four-day event will run from Thursday, September 19th through Sunday, September 22nd.

Thursday through Saturday the event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. with free admission for all before 6:00 p.m. and free for kids all day. After 6:00 p.m. adults will be $5. On Sunday it will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a $5 cost all day.

All weekend long there will be live music, Greek folk dancing, and games. Guests will be invited up on the stage and instructed in traditional dances. There will also be tours of the beautiful Holy Trinity church, shopping at the popup boutique and market place, and a KidZone with games, arts and crafts, an inflatable playground, and more. The KidZone will charge a $5 admission, benefiting Emergency Infant Services.

Author Gina Michalopulos Kingsley will be speaking and doing signings of her new book, “A Magic Carpet Ride.”

The event will feature several gourmet authentic Greek foods including:

  • Loukaniko, a pork sausage served with sauteed peppers and onions on toasted pita.

  • Greek Salad, with romaine lettuce, cucumbers, roma tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, red onions, bell peppers, and house-made Greek Vinaigrette.

  • Keftedes, fried meatballs garnished with lemon wedges.

  • The Athenian Special, a sampler box of feta, olives, dolmades, and keftedes.

  • Saganaki, flaming cheese.

  • Ouzo, an anise-flavored liqueur, and other imported beer, wine, and spirits. For the first time, they will also be serving pina coladas and frozen lemonade made with Ouzo.

  • Imported Greek soft drinks.

  • Gyros, beef and lamb gyro meat grilled and served layered in a pita with veggies and tzatziki sauce.

  • Calamari, breaded and fried squid, served with fresh lemon and cocktail sauce.

  • Greek Fries, french fries tossed in Greek seasonings topped with feta cheese and tzatziki. There will also be a french fry eating contest.

  • Lamb Dinner, roasted with garlic and herbs, tzatziki, rice, and Greek style green beans.

  • Chicken or Pork Souvlaki Dinner, shish kabobs on pita with rice pilaf, green beans, spanakopita, and tyropita.

  • Greek Green Beans, stewed in a savory tomato sauce.

  • Spanikopita, a flaky pastry of filo dough filled with spinach.

  • Tyropita, a flaky pastry of filo dough filled with cheeses.

  • Baklava, a flaky pastry of filo dough with spiced nutty filling soaked in sweet syrup. Also served a la mode.

  • Galaktoboureko, a creamy custard filling inside layers of filo dough with an orange syrup.

  • Kouroummbiedes, a buttery Greek wedding cookie dusted with powdered sugar.

  • Koulourakia, a twisted biscuit cookie best served with coffee.

  • Melomakarona, a nutty crumbly holiday cookie.

  • Loukoumades, AKA Honey Puffs. Fried balls of dough soaked in honey and dusted with cinnamon.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
1222 South Guthrie Avenue
Tulsa, OK 74119
(918) 583-2082

Seven exciting events planned for this weekend in Sand Springs

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It’s shaping up to be a busy weekend in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. Several community events are planned for the August 10-11 weekend, including hiking, shopping, entertainment, and charitable giving.

Sandite Lift-a-Thon
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
CPHS Veterans Memorial Stadium
600 North Adams Road

The Charles Page High School Football and Baseball teams will be competing in the annual Sandite Lift-a-Thon Saturday, August 10th. The two teams will participate in an NFL-style combine from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and this year it’ll be open to the public.

The players have been busy collecting donation pledges, and on Saturday they’ll try to max out both their donations and their reps. They will be competing in bench press, squat, and clean lift.

The football team’s locker room will be open for tours, there will be food trucks, inflatables, and more. The junior high dance teams will be serving up breakfasts of either pancakes or biscuits and gravy.

Open Hike Day
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Keystone Ancient Forest
160 Ancient Forest Drive

The City’s largest park will be open to hikers. The 1,380 acre forest is only open during staffed Saturday hours in order to preserve its natural beauty and cleanliness. The park is home to 300-year-old post oaks and 500-year-old cedars as well as numerous wildlife. It has been relatively unaltered since the time it was first journaled about by famed Sleepy Hollow author Washington Irving during an 1832 exploratory expedition. The park includes a 0.6-mile ADA-compliant paved trail, as well as several miles of intermediate hiking trails.

Love Your Neighbor Free Furniture and Appliance Swap Meet
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
WEBCO Star Center - West Entrance
13701 West Highway 51

From 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. individuals with furniture and appliances in good working condition will be able to drop off donations for victims of the historic summer flooding that devastated the community this May.

Accepted items include: tables, chairs, sofas, loveseats, living room chairs, night stands, flatscreen televisions, bed frames and head/foot boards, microwaves, stoves, ovens, dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers. Mattresses and box springs will not be accepted.

Flood victims will be able to come pick out items from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Photo ID and proof of residence in an affected flood area will be required. Only one person per household/address will be allowed to claim items. Each household will receive two tickets to choose two items they are most in need of, while supplies last. Delivery help will be available within two miles of Webco.

Summer’s End Market
Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The Shops on Adams Road, Suite 510
510 Plaza Court

Located inside the former Sand Springs Beauty College storefront, this free-admission showcase will feature numerous vendors of arts and crafts, skin care products, hand crafted kitchen items, jewelry, boutique clothing and decor, and numerous other items. This annual event is a great opportunity to get a jump-start on Christmas shopping.

Osage County Republican Party Town Hall meeting
Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Elks Lodge #2553
546 West Imperial Boulevard

The Osage County Republican Party will be hosting a town hall meeting at the Elks Lodge Saturday, August 10th in Sand Springs. The general public is invited to hear updates from elected officials and enjoy complimentary refreshments.

Former State Senator Eddie Fields, County Sheriff Eddie Virden, County Assessor Ed Quinton, District 10 Senator Bill Coleman, District 1 County Commissioner Randall Jones, District 35 Representative Ty Burns, and District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan have all confirmed that they will be present and speaking at the event.

Speakers will address the 2018-2019 Legislative Session, the Oklahoma government under Governor Kevin Stitt, upcoming County Commissioner projects, and more. They will also answer questions on property taxes and criminal activity in the county.

Young Mrs. International Aiya Attaway Kelley, a former candidate for State Senate, will be performing the National Anthem prior to the meeting.

Tea, coffee, and cookies will be provided at no cost. The Elks Lodge will also have pulled pork sandwiches with beans, cornbread, and chips for purchase. Voter registration cards will also be available.

Flood Victim Bicycle Giveaway
Sunday 11:00 a.m.
Church That Matters
3 West 41st Street

Church That Matters will be holding a brief Sunday service for victims of the historic Arkansas River flooding earlier this summer, and will be giving away 150 children’s bicycles. Families must bring an ID and utility bill proving that they live in an afflicted flood zone. Free bicycles will be limited to one per child (ages 2-12) in attendance. The child must be present to receive the bike. There will be a short 20-minute program for the kids and their parent/guardian at 11:00 sharp, followed by the giveaway.

Families must attend the service to receive the bicycles, with one exception. Families who already have a home church will be allowed to visit Church That Matters Monday, August 12th through Wednesday, August 14th from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and must bring their church’s program or bulletin to prove they were in a church service during the 11:00 a.m. time-frame.

Back 2 School Bash
Sunday 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Tulsa Tech
924 East Charles Page Boulevard

The Sand Springs Local Church Network will be holding its annual Back 2 School Bash Sunday, August 11th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Tulsa Tech Sand Springs campus.

The event will feature inflatables, free hot dogs, and Sandlot Sno Balls, as well as numerous back-to-school necessities.

Volunteers will be providing free backpacks and school supplies, haircuts, dental checkups, eye exams, physicals, and more.

Plans scrapped for controversial Dollar General store in Sand Springs

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Plans for a controversial Dollar General store location have been scrapped following significant public outcry.

A one-acre vacant lot at 2702 North State Highway 97 was the intended construction site, but after more than 200 Osage County citizens submitted a petition in opposition, the business has shelved its plans.

The property is currently zoned residential and sits at the entrance to a residential neighborhood. However, it is also within close proximity to a gas station, water tower, mini-storage facility, church, and radio station. In the 1981 neighborhood plat, it was indicated that the lot would be allowed be either residential or commercial.

The Sand Springs Planning Commission failed to pass a recommendation either in favor of or against the rezoning, and the item was advanced to the City Council’s June 17th agenda. A continuance was then issued till the July meeting due to Dollar General’s inability to get a representative to the meeting.

Approximately 240 local residents signed a petition opposing the business, feeling that it was inappropriately encroaching on a residential neighborhood. Approximately 18 individuals submitted letters of support for the construction.

Last week a representative from Rupe Helmer Group, the property management organization representing Dollar General, requested that their application be withdrawn.

“After much discussion and consideration, Rupe Helmer Group will not pursue construction of the Dollar General at the proposed location on HWY 97 in Sand Springs,” reads an email from Executive Vice President Mike Mantle. “Given the local opposition and vitriol, we feel this is the best direction.”

SouthSide Coneys holds grand opening, owned by Church That Matters

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SouthSide Coneys celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting Monday morning in south Sand Springs at 1 West 41st Street.

Church That Matters, located in the same shopping center, recently purchased the business which was previously known as Terry’s Classic Coneys, and before that it was Ed’s Classic Coneys.

Ed’s built a brand as a 1950s-themed diner with hot rod red walls, Route 66 memorabilia, checkered racing flags, and frequent car shows. When Teri Buckner purchased the business in 2014, the name was the only thing to change.

The whole building got a facelift in recent weeks as it donned Sandite Black & Gold colors and a modern Sand Springs theme. School memorabilia is also expected to decorate the walls in the near future.

“Part of our vision since the beginning of our church has been to own and operate businesses,” says CTM Pastor Rusty Gunn. Not only will the businesses provide income for the church to expand its outreach ministries and missions, but according to Gunn, it also creates “touch points in our community where we can meet people that we wouldn’t normally get to meet.”

The church currently owns and operates the Prattville Market, a booth rental and resale store. It also owns Lee’s Charburgers, a food truck that operated out of the church parking lot throughout 2018 before shutting down this past winter. Lee’s is currently on hiatus, but Gunn says it is expected to return within the next year or two.

In addition to the aesthetic changes, the restaurant menu has also been changing. The chili used on the coneys is now made entirely in-house. Pulled pork and BBQ chicken sandwiches have been added, as have pulled pork and BBQ chicken nachos.

“We want to keep doing what we’ve been doing,” says Gunn. “Matter to God, our city, and the world.”

Church That Matters buys Terry's Classic Coneys

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Church That Matters has taken over ownership of Terry’s Classic Coneys in south Sand Springs and will soon be rebranding the restaurant.

Originally Ed’s Classic Coneys, the business built a brand as a 1950s-themed diner with hot rod red walls, Route 66 memorabilia, checkered racing flags, and frequent car shows. When Teri Buckner purchased the business in 2014, the name was the only thing to change.

The whole building will be getting a facelift in the coming months as it dons Sandite Black & Gold colors and a modern Sand Springs theme with school memorabilia. It will also be renamed Southside Coneys.

“Part of our vision since the beginning of our church has been to own and operate businesses,” says CTM Pastor Rusty Gunn. Not only will the businesses provide income for the church to expand its outreach ministries and missions, but according to Gunn, it also creates “touch points in our community where we can meet people that we wouldn’t normally get to meet.”

The church currently owns and operates the Prattville Market, a booth rental and resale store. It also owns Lee’s Charburgers, a food truck that operated out of the church parking lot throughout 2018 before shutting down this past winter. Lee’s is currently on hiatus, but Gunn says it is expected to return within the next year or two.

In addition to the aesthetic changes coming to the restaurant, their menu has also been changing. The chili used on the coneys is now made entirely in-house. Pulled pork and BBQ chicken sandwiches have been added, as have pulled pork and BBQ chicken nachos.

“We want to keep doing what we’ve been doing,” says Gunn. “Matter to God, our city, and the world.”

The grand re-opening will be held on Monday, July 15th with a ribbon cutting celebration at 11:30 a.m. The public is invited to attend, and there will be special deals and drawings.

30th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival quickly approaching

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The 30th annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday, April 13th, rain or shine. The beloved festival attracts nearly 30,000 individuals to the historic Sand Springs Triangle District every year. With nearly 150 vendor booths, live music, kids activities, and delicious foods, the event has something for the whole family.

“We’ll be sharing a wide variety of products from plant growers, vendors and craftsmen for this very special 30 year anniversary event,” stated Grant Gerondale, Community Development Director for the City. “Event goers should find even more great food options, arts and crafts and even a live pottery demonstration by budding artists at the Tulsa Boys Home.”

The public event will offer free shuttle services from Charles Page High School at 500 North Adams Road. Leashed pets are welcome. Church That Matters will provide a Kids Zone with a petting zoo, arts and crafts projects, and more.

Special 30 year commemorative Sand Springs Herbal Affair posters (11”x17”) will be available for $5.00 each as well as colorful “30 Years and Growing” Herbal Affair T-shirts for $10.00 while supplies last. All proceeds benefit the event.

“Whether you’re just looking a unique heritage tomato variety for your garden or a hand-made coffee mug for yourself or a friend, this year’s Herbal Affair should not be missed,” said Gerondale. ”Grab a friend, find some Amish chicken and noodles and kick back in our historic downtown to the tunes of some truly great local music. The Sand Springs Herbal Affair is truly one of the coolest things that happens each spring in Oklahoma.”

Event Schedule:
8:00 a.m. Sand Springs Herbal Affair opens, shuttle service begins.
8:30 a.m. Dulcimer Magic.
9:30 a.m. Monica Tayler.
11:00 a.m. Anna Massey.
12:00 p.m. Hometown Hero Award presented.
12:30 p.m. Janet Rutland and Shelby Eicher.
2:00 p.m. And Then There Were Two.
4:00 p.m. Event closes, shuttle service ends.

For a full list of vendors, click here to visit our Event Page.

Just a few blocks down the road from Herbal Affair, OkieSpice and Trade Co. will be hosting their 2nd Annual Westival event from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 501 West 2nd Street. The free outdoor event will feature free tasting of products sold at the business year round.

Click here for a full list of Westival vendors.

Sand Springs City Council approves permits for city's first marijuana dispensaries

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Police Chief Mike Carter was recognized for 25 years of service at Monday’s City Council meeting.

Medical Marijuana took center stage at Monday night’s Sand Springs City Council meeting.

Specific Use Permits (SUPs) were approved for a medical marijuana cultivation facility, as well as a dispensary, owned by Dr. Cannabis, LLC at 3417 S. 113th W. Ave., Suite B3. An SUP was also granted to Therapeutic Herbal Care, LLC to open a dispensary at 1126 E. Charles Page Blvd.

Council denied an SUP to David Dietrich for the purpose of opening a cultivation facility at 15208 W. Weaver Road. The facility would have been located in a predominately residential area, and numerous neighbors requested that Council deny the permit. At a recent Planning Commission meeting, nearby residents cited concerns about the effect that a cultivation facility would have on the neighborhood’s water pressure.

Nature’s Candy Dispensary was subject of discussion surrounding their name. The organization agreed to legally do business as Nature’s Apothecary at a Planning Commission meeting earlier this month, due to objections to the use of the word “candy” in regards to a medicinal substance. New objections were raised by Councilman Jim Spoon to the use of the word “apothecary.” According to Spoon, businesses dealing in marijuana are banned from using the word “apothecary” by the Oklahoma Board of Pharmacy. A motion was approved to award an SUP to the business on conditions that they not use any terms relating to pharmacy or candy. The dispensary will be located at 3417 S. 113th W. Ave., Suite A2.

In other news:

Oklahoma Municipal League representative Pam Polk presented a certificate to Police Chief Mike Carter in recognition of 25 years of service. Fleet Technician Michael O’Dell was not present, but will also be receiving the award.

Council unanimously voted to approve a resolution of support for the Sand Springs Public Schools’ General Obligation Bond Propositions 1 & 2. The propositions total $32,850,000 and will provide funding for transportation equipment and the construction of a new Ninth Grade Center and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Academy on the grounds of Charles Page High School. The measures will go to a vote of the people on March 5th.

Council unanimously voted to affirm dilapidation public nuisance hearing findings for a fire-damaged residential building at 405 West 7th Street.

Council unanimously voted to approve a Beautification Wall project at the City’s Water Treatment Plant on the corner of Highway 97 and Morrow Road. The funding for the project was passed by voters as a G.O. Bond measure in November of 2017. Council awarded the construction project to Crossland Construction Company, Inc. in the amount of $1,113,807.60. Council also awarded an administration and inspection contract to Keithline Engineering Group, PLLC in the amount of $98,118.87.

Council approved an ordinance authorizing the City of Sand Springs Police Department to remove individuals from private and public properties, without involving the property owner. The measure gives property owners the ability to inform the department of individuals banned from their property, and authorizes officers to remove that individual without first establishing contact with the property owner. This also includes nonspecific entities, such as bans on loitering or semi truck parking.

Council approved an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to determine individual salaries.

Council approved a $250,000.00 Title Sponsorship agreement with the Sharna and Irvin Frank Foundation, including naming rights and expanded hours with paid staff at the Keystone Ancient Forest visitors’ center. Voters approved funding for construction of a visitors’ center in a 2017 G.O. Bond election, but the sponsorship agreement will provide additional funding for increased visitors hours and a larger facility.

Council approved $100,322.00 for the purchase and instillation of communication equipment for the Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center.

Council approved granting an easement to OmniTrax for railroad property abutting the upcoming Main Street project in downtown. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation will be bidding the project in February of this year, with construction set to begin soon after. Main Street will be rebuilt from 1st Street south to its current terminus, with a new section of road connecting Main Street west to Highway 97. A new frontage road will also be built to connect Main Street to the Lincoln Avenue On-Ramp onto Highway 412.

OmniTrax operates the Sand Springs Railway, which runs railways across Main Street, Morrow Road, and Highway 97. The easement will allow the railway to continue normal operations throughout the construction project.

Expedia names Sand Springs as Oklahoma's best getaway location

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Sand Springs Lake Park in summer.

Expedia.com, one of the nation’s leading travel websites, has named Sand Springs as the “Best Place To Escape To” in the State of Oklahoma in a recent travel blog.

California-based traveler Lily Rogers recently published the article, titled “Best Place To Escape To In Every State.”

“From quaint small towns to quiet nature preserves, this country is full of places to escape to,” says Rogers. Sand Springs has both, with a homey downtown shopping district and the largest municipally-owned nature preserve in the state.

Rogers references the Keystone Lake, Keystone Ancient Forest, and Shell Lake as reasons for her selection of Sand Springs as the best getaway in Oklahoma.

Keystone Ancient Forest is Sand Springs’s best-kept secret. The 1,360 acre park features 300-year-old post oaks and 500-year-old cedars with wildlife, beautiful scenery, and 4.4 miles of hiking trails. Famed Sleepy Hollow author and explorer Irving Washington even crossed through the area in 1832 and wrote extensively of its beauty and rugged terrain in his journals.

The City of Sand Springs recently passed a general obligation bond measure that will help to fund a visitor’s center and a watch tower that will elevate visitors above the forest canopy in the near future.

The park is only open to visitors on select Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in order to keep the area pristine. Hike With Your Dog days are also scheduled throughout the year, and the forest’s Fourth Annual Ancient Trail Trek is set for February 9th, featuring a 5K, 10K, and fun run.

The Ancient Forest isn’t the only unique natural site in Sand Springs. Visitors can also fish and boat on the Keystone Lake, Shell Lake, and the Arkansas River. Bald Eagles are known to nest at the White Water Off-Road Vehicle Park beneath the Keystone Dam, as well as in Case Community Park and other areas along the Arkansas River.

Two of the most historic sites in Sand Springs are the Sand Springs Lake and Centennial Park on Katy Trail. Centennial Park is the home of the sandy springs from which the town draws its name, and the lake park was once a weekend swimming destination for Tulsa-area families from the 1920s through 1950s. Now it is a quaint fishing hole with ADA-friendly walking trails.

Visitors have numerous lodging options in Sand Springs, including modern downtown hotels near the historic Triangle District, riverside RV parks, cabins at the Osage Forest of Peace, and the PostOak Lodge with its zip lines, disc golf, fishing, hiking, and more.

Art connoisseurs will enjoy the Shiny Happy Blue Dog exhibit by George Rodrigue, currently making its Oklahoma debut at the Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum, and numerous vibrant murals around the town. The Rodrigue exhibit will be on display through February, and numerous other events are on the horizon, guaranteed to give visitors a great time.

Sand Springs Event Calendar:

February 3rd - Fourth Annual Ancient Trail Trek
April 13th - Thirtieth Annual Herbal Affair & Festival
May 4th-5th - 100 Mile Yard Sale
May 10th - Third Annual Unity Praise concert
May 30th - June 1st - Eighth Annual Chillin & Grillin Festival
June - 29th Annual Kids’ Free Fishing Derby
June - Eighth Annual Big Blast Fireworks Show & Kids Fun Fest
June - Tenth Annual EuroMotor Extravaganza
July 3rd - Third Annual Riverfest and Sertoma Fireworks Show
September 2nd - 24th Annual Great Raft Race
October - Ninth Annual Boo on Broadway
November through December - Snapped In Sand Springs
November - Tenth Annual 2 Angels Toy Run
November - Third Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 6th-8th - Second Annual Hometown Holiday Christmas Celebration

To view the complete list of Best Places to Escape To, visit Expedia.com.