Life of Riley Music & Sports Bar holds Grand Opening Saturday in Sand Springs

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“Life of Riley” is an expression meaning “an ideal life of carefree prosperity and luxurious contentment.” In the case of the new Life of Riley bar in Sand Springs, it is also the life of owner Riley Howard.

Riley and Ashley Howard have spent the past five months remodeling their building in preparation for the grand opening. Riley isn’t a native Sandite, he’s originally from the Berryhill community, but managed TJ’s Wine and Spirits in Sand Springs for the past 19 years.

Fitting the name of the bar, Life of Riley is undeniably luxurious. The upscale music and sports bar isn’t your typical westside dive. The pristine venue matches up against the finest bars in the Tulsa area in terms of cleanliness, comfort, decor, and visual appeal.

The Prattville bar features four large flat screen televisions that will all be showing NCAA Football on Saturdays. An added perk for sports lovers is the DirecTV NFL Sports Package so every game is available on Sundays.

In addition to being a prime destination for sports fans, the bar also has a live music setup and plans to host trivia and poker nights in the near future.

Life of Riley is a non-smoking bar, though they are working on a patio area for smoking and vaping. The bar does not have food in-house, but they plan to host local food trucks during peak hours, and patrons are invited to bring outside food. They have also left room in the fridge and are taking recommendations from the community on which beverages to carry.

“(Sand Springs) was just the right market,” says Howard. “I feel things are really growing this way. I think we’re the new Owasso, Broken Arrow, or Jenks. Everything’s coming out this way, and there’s just nothing like this out here. It’s the perfect spot.”

Brian O’Hara, the Deputy District Director for Congressional District 1, presented the Howards with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition on behalf of Congressman Kevin Hern at the bar’s Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting early Saturday morning.

Life Of Riley
918.514.0179
1 East 34th Street South
Sand Springs, OK 74063

Hours
Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Monday: 2:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Tuesday: 2:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Wednesday: 2:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Thursday: 2:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Friday: 2:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Saturday: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.

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.

Sand Springs Fire Station #2 to receive $1.5 million new facility

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs City Council approved the use of $1,500,000 to design and build a new building to replace Fire Station #2 in Prattville in a regular monthly meeting Monday evening.

The current building has undergone multiple remodels that have failed to improve upon chronic roof leaks, a history of mold issues, and an overall inadequate design. 

The original facility was designed primary as a garage for holding volunteer fire department trucks. Eventually a single living quarter was constructed, then a second story was added in the 1980s. The residential structure also encroaches outside the property line by four feet along the west wall.

The apparatus bays use residential-quality garage doors and the ceilings are too low to allow proper routine maintenance. Whenever snow accumulates on the access drive the garage doors don't open high enough to allow the trucks to exit, meaning fire fighters have to keep the exits shoveled at all times.

Proposed floor plan for new facility.

Fritz Baily, P.C. estimates that all-new construction would cost approximately $1,357,020 as opposed to $1,237,376 for total renovation of the existing station. New construction would add more than 3,000 square feet as well as establish far better functionality.

The replacement building will be built further south and east of the current station so that the current facilities will remain open until construction is complete. 

The facility will be single-story, allowing for faster response time. It will also include multiple shower rooms to provide more privacy. The current facility holds a common restroom, which will be impossible to use if and when the Fire Department hires female fire fighters.

One of three proposed plans for replacing the existing station.

One of three proposed plans for replacing the existing station.

One of three proposed plans for replacing the existing station.

Terry's Classic Coneys presents the Harper's Hut Classic Car & Bike Show, next Saturday in Sand Springs

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Three cars that may be at the car show. Photo: Mark Battenfield

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Harper's Hut Shaved Ice & Java is teaming up with Terry's Classic Coneys to bring an old tradition back to the Prattville community. Before being acquired by Teri Buckner, the former Ed's Classic Coneys hosted car shows just about every year. On Saturday, September 24th, the show is back and bigger than ever.

"We've spared no expense," says Harper's owner William Nozak. "It's not just car fans who should be there--it's families. It's a big big thing that we've all come together in Sand Springs to do."

Car Show sponsors:

Allstate
Animal House II Pet Store
Battman Collision Repair
Church That Matters
Copper Oaks Bed & Breakfast
Do Overs Furniture
Green Country Federal Credit Union
Harper's Hut Shaved Ice & Java
Inkwell Custom Apparel
Lucky 7's Custom Creations
Master Lube
Miss Trita's Dance Studio
Mother's Helper Consignment Shop
Sand Springs Autosource
Sand Springs Leader
Shell & Cross Bones Candles
Sullivan's Body Shop
Terry's Classic Coneys
U.S. Army Sand Springs Recruiting Center

The event may be hosted by Buckner and Nozak, but more than a dozen area businesses and organizations are helping to bring the annual event back to life.

The car show will last from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will have plenty for everybody. DJ Blake Bush will be providing entertainment for the evening. Miss Trita's Dance Studio students will be performing a routine. The Sand Springs Leader will be providing games for the children and the Army will have youth games. There will be several other vendors of food, crafts, clothes, and more at the event as well.

Church That Matters will be preparing breakfast and the Harper's Hut coffee truck will also be on hand. Throughout the day, attendees will be able to lunch on Papa Pat's Barbecue or Terry's Classic Coneys, and follow it up with some shaved ice for dessert. 

The car show itself will feature 21 classes, with trophies going to the top-three in each class. The first place trophies are extra special, however. Nozak traveled three hours to Conway, Arkansas to acquire the trophies that were hand-made by an artist/mechanic from actual car parts. The trophies are very heavy, and very expensive. 

There's a special category for the kids to participate in, and a People's Choice Award trophy. Every entrant in the competition will receive a T-shirt, but the biggest prize goes to the Best in Show winner. That lucky person will receive a one night paid stay for two at the Copper Oaks Bed & Breakfast in Sapulpa. 

There will also be a raffle open to the public, full of great prizes. There's a lamp made out of car pistons, $25 vouchers to the Sand Springs Pumpkin Patch, two meals at Rib Crib, car detailing supplies from AutoZone, a month of free tanning from Touch of Sun, a one-year subscription to the Leader, and even more great prizes. Raffle tickets will be $5.00 apiece, and each prize will have its own bucket so that everyone gets a good shot at what they're wanting. 

The best part of the whole event is that it's nonprofit. The proceeds from the car show and raffle will all be split between the Keystone Fire Department and the Church That Matters Special Needs ministry. 

For more information, contact
William Nozak
www.harpershut.com
www.facebook.com/harpers.hut

Capital Homes to develop 87-lot housing addition in South Sand Springs

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs City Council met in a regular monthly meeting Monday and unanimously approved a request from Capital Homes to rezone a 19.8-acre property in Prattville from RS-3 to RS-4.

The rezoning will decrease the required lot size from 60 feet wide to 50 feet wide, allowing the developer to build an additional nine homes within the planned housing addition.

Capital Homes’ most recent development in Sand Springs was the Walnut Ridge addition which holds 101 homes and took five years to fill completely. The new addition will be built on 51st Street, East of the Southeast corner of 129th W. Ave. It backs up to the Sandite Sporting Complex and will hold 87 total houses.

Capital Homes President David Charney also made a donation to Sand Springs Public Schools to sponsor ten students for the JA BizTown field trip, but specifically made the donation after the vote on his housing addition, so as to not put the Council in what could appear to be a compromised position.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council members help fund Elementary field trip

Buyers in the addition will have four floor plans to choose from. The plans include three one-story options at approximately 1300--1800 square feet, and one two-story plan averaging 2300 square feet.

Governor Mary Fallin Signs Paperwork Placing Five Additional State Questions on November Ballot

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OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin signed election proclamations Monday that place five additional state questions on the November 8 general election ballot.

The paperwork signed by the governor placed these issues on the ballot:

  • State Question (SQ) 779, which would increase the state sales tax by 1 percent to fund teacher pay raises and other education causes.
  • SQ 780, which reclassifies some criminal offenses, such as drug possession and property crimes, as misdemeanors instead of felonies.
  • SQ 781, which would take money saved from implementing SQ 780 and allow counties to fund community rehabilitation programs.
  • SQ 790, which would remove a section of the Oklahoma Constitution prohibiting use of state resources for religious purposes.  
  • SQ 792, which would allow wine and full-strength beer to be sold in grocery stores and convenience stores.

The deadline for the governor to sign election proclamations for state questions to be placed on the November 8 general election ballot is Friday.

Two other state questions already are on the ballot. SQ 776 would declare that the death penalty is not cruel or unusual punishment and would allow the Legislature to designate any method of execution if a current method is declared unconstitutional. SQ 777 would prevent lawmakers from passing legislation to regulate agriculture unless there is a compelling state interest.

This week in Sand Springs

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Museum Trust Authority Meeting

The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum Trust Authority is scheduled to meet Tuesday, August 16th, at 6:00 p.m. in the museum.

The Board will consider approval of the FY 2017 Budget, naming Ginger Murphy as Museum Director, reallocating space for museum operations, and will discuss the July financials.

Development Authority Meeting

The City of Sand Springs Development Authority is scheduled to meetWednesday, August 17th at 4:00 p.m. in the Sand Springs Municipal Building.

The Board will receive an update on Sand Springs’s development opportunities. No action is expected to be taken during the meeting.

Sand Springs Elementary Meet and Greets

Pratt Elementary is hosting their Meet and Greet event on Thursday, August 18th from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  The PTO will have a table set up for memberships and new spirit wear will be available for purchase.

Northwoods, Limestone, and Garfield Elementary will hold Meet-n-Greet events Monday, August 22nd, the day before school starts. Northwoods and Garfield will last from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Limestone will last from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

 City Council and Municipal Authority Meetings

The City of Sand Springs City Council is expected to meet Monday, August 22nd at 7:00 p.m. in the City Municipal Building. The Municipal Authority meeting will follow immediately after. No agenda has been provided at this time.

Tulsa County Court Clerk Runoff Election

The Tulsa County Republican Party will have a runoff election Tuesday, August 23rd.

Registered Republicans will choose between Donald Newberry and Ron Phillips for their November candidate.

Newberry is a US Air Force veteran with an Associate’s in Business, Bachelor’s in Psychology, and Masters in Business Administration.

Phillips is currently the Special Projects Director for the County Clerk’s Office and holds a business administration degree.

The winner of the runoff will take on Democratic nominee John R. Andrew in November.

Newberry won the June Republican primary with 35% to 33%.

Sand Springs Public School students return to class Tuesday, August 23rd

Meet the Sandites will also be held this day at 6:00 p.m..

Tulsa County Library Summer Reading Program encourages reading at all ages

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By: Virgil Noah, Marketing Director

The Tulsa City-County Library Summer Reading Program is officially underway, and this year they're offering programs for the entire family to participate in. In addition, having a library card is not required to participate in this year's programs.

The Children's Summer Reading Program is available for newborns up to children who have completed fourth grade. To sign up, simply go to any of the 24 TCCL locations and visit the Summer Reading Program table.

When signing up, children will receive a reading log, their first library visit sticker, event guide for the summer, and a free bookmark and bag. If they read, listen to, or have parents read eight books to them as well as visiting the library four times, kids will receive a medal and book of coupons for free food and entertainment. The book of coupons includes coupons for admission to the Oklahoma Aquarium, Tulsa Zoo, Tulsa Drillers game, and more! If they read twenty books and visit four times they will earn a bonus prize, an inflatable baseball bat!

After completing the program children can enter into grand prize drawings to win a bicycle, Tulsa Roughnecks FC tickets, and more. Entering the grand prize drawing at Charles Page Public Library or Pratt Public Library, conveniently located on opposite sides of Sand Springs, will result in a better chance of winning a grand prize. Each year the Sand Springs Women's Chamber donates the money for each library to purchase a bike to give away. The only way to win is the enter the drawing at Charles Page or Pratt Library. 

To sign up for the Teen and Tween Summer Reading Program you must have completed the fifth grade. Reading or listening to 6 books results in completion of the program and earns teens an ID wallet and earbuds, plus coupons for free food and entertainment. 

Charles Page Branch Manager Mark Carlson has his own reading challenge that he extends to the children and teens that filter through his library throughout the summer. If they read 100 books, they will receive a certificate recognizing their completion of his challenge and a giant Hershey's chocolate bar.  

This year is the first time the SRP features a program for adults. Adults can sign up at any of the 24 TCCL locations or at www.tulsalibrary.org. For reading or listening to 4 books, those who register will receive coupons for free food and a cool messenger bag in one of five colors. 

The Summer Reading Programs will run through August 6th, with June 20th being the first day that you can submit completed reading logs to receive prizes. 

Charles Page Public Library
551 E 4th St, Sand Springs, OK 74063
(918) 549-7521

Pratt Public Library  
3219 S 113th W Ave  
Sand Springs, OK 74063
(918) 549-7638

Word of Life Church hosts FREE Community Carnival Memorial Day Weekend

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

This Saturday marks the fourth annual Free Community Carnival at Word of Life Church. The event has previously taken place at the end of summer, but was bumped up to Memorial Day weekend after the church changed to a new carnival company.  

The event will take place on Saturday, May 28, 2016 from 11:00 am through 2:00 pm.

Why the change? The ride company that the church was previously using is going through a transition and was unable to ensure their availability. Instead of putting the beloved community event on hiatus for a year, the church managed to locate an Oklahoma City based company that only had the one day available. Instead of looking at the change as an inconvenience, the church is counting it as a blessing and an opportunity to improve the experience for everyone.

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"We feel Memorial Day weekend is a great time to do it since it's the first holiday of summer. Many families are looking for something to do, so why not a free carnival!" said Senior Pastor Chad Stewart. The temperature difference will also be a big improvement. The carnival volunteers have often had to work in 90+ degree temperatures in August, so the move to May will make it far more enjoyable both for the workers and the guests.

The current forecast shows a 50% chance of rain Saturday morning that should taper off by the time the carnival begins. The potential rain should keep the temperature below 80 till after the event is over. 

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This year the carnival will have seven rides:  3-4 large rides and 3-4 smaller rides for the little kids, in addition to games, inflatables, and other activities. As always, the church will be offering free hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones, and lemonade. There will also be food and game trucks associated with the ride company, Sam's Amusements & Carnivals. These additional options won't be free, but will provide an even more authentic carnival feel than in previous years. Sandlot Sno-Balls will be providing free shaved ice during the event.

Like last year, parking will be located at the old K-Mart building on Charles Page Boulevard, as well as Northwoods Fine Arts Academy, and free shuttling will be provided.

On Sunday morning the church will be giving away $5,000 to bless guests at their 9:00 and 11:00 AM services. Each service will have five winners of $500 each.

Sakura might just be the nicest restaurant in Sand Springs

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By: Morgan Miller, Executive Director

If you are from Sand Springs, you have probably asked for the city to have nicer restaurants before (or if you're on Sand Springs Gossip Central, you have asked for them a couple dozen times). In January Sand Springs received a new, incredibly nice Sushi and Hibachi restaurant named Sakura.

Sakura opened in a building formerly occupied by Pizza Hut. On the outside, it still looks like its predecessor, but as soon as you step inside, you're blown away by how lovely the decor is. Walking around the interior of this restaurant, you would never guess that it was once a Pizza Hut. The flooring and walls are very nicely done, with nice faux wood flooring, gorgeous wallpaper, and decorative stacked stone. There are also multiple decorative water features throughout the restaurant, televisions on multiple walls, and nice seating in each of the three sections. As well as regular booth and table seating, guests also have the option to be seated at the sushi bar.

The food does not disappoint, either. The menu has something for just about everyone. There is sushi, fried rices, steak, and other great options. Of the many times that I have visited (I'd rather not say the amount) I have tried many of their sushi options. Before trying Sakura, I can honestly say I was not a fan of sushi. I have tried almost all of the "special" sushi options on the menu there and I have thoroughly enjoyed every one that I have tried. I have heard from friends that their options other than sushi are quite enjoyable as well.

The staff has been friendly and professional with every visit. Each time I have gone, my food has come out in a timely manner and my drink has stayed filled. Finally, I have always been very impressed with the presentation of my food. Each time, my food has been presented to me beautifully.

Over all, the only complaint that I could have is that the outside of the restaurant does not reflect at all the greatness that is found inside. If you have not gone to check out this new addition to Sand Springs, I would highly recommend that you do!

Sakura is open from 11:00am-3:00pm and 4:30pm-9:30pm Monday through Thursday, 11:00am-10:00pm Friday and Saturday, and 11:00am-9:00pm on Sunday. You can dine in or order take-out. To order carry out you can call the restaurant at 918-514-0288, or order online at www.sakurasandsprings.com 

Alley LeGrand is headed to HOSA Nationals, and needs your help

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STAFF REPORTS

Charles Page High School and Tulsa Tech junior Alley LeGrand recently placed third in her event at the Oklahoma State HOSA competitions this week, qualifying to compete at Nationals this summer in Nashville, Tennessee. The only problem is, only the first place winners get the trip paid for by HOSA. 

The Health Occupations Students of America's mission is "to enhance the delivery of compassionate, quality health care by providing opportunities for knowledge, skill, and leadership development of all heal science education students, therefore, helping the student meet the needs of the health care community."

Despite being a National Technology Honors Society student with perfect attendance at both Tech and CPHS, LeGrand will have to forfeit her spot if she can't come up the money by April 13th. 

LeGrand has already been accepted to her second year at Tulsa Tech for the Dental Assistant program, and is hoping to represent Sand Springs on the national stage and potentially win a scholarship. She's already raised $215 in the first 14 hours, but needs to reach $1,600 by April 13. If you would like to contribute you can donate to her campaign at https://www.gofundme.com/ctxux8rg

Sand Springs Splash Pads to open May 1st; several new parks improvements

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STAFF REPORTS

The citizens of Sand Springs have been eagerly awaiting the completion of the new splash pads in River City Parks and Pratt Civitan Park since construction began about a year ago, and it's finally time for the new features to open in one month. In addition to the splash pads themselves, the city also used the installation as an opportunity for renovation, beautifying and improving the areas around them. New handicapped parking has been added in River City, accompanied by a new pedestrian bridge to cross the creek. The splash pads will be open from May through September from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Pratt Civitan

River City

Mark your calendars for the 27th annual Herbal Affair

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Story and photo by: Morgan Miller, Executive Director

If you are from Sand Springs or one of the surrounding areas, chances are you have been to or at least have heard of the Herbal Affair. If you have not heard of this festival, it is an annual herb and garden event held in downtown Sand Springs. The city’s website states that “this event was founded in 1989 and began as a simple downtown street sale. Since then it has grown tremendously and now attracts over 25,000 people each year. It has also led to other communities hosting similar events, but remains the “queen” of herbal festivals.” This event consistently attracts people from all over the state, and even people from surrounding states as well.

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Kasey St. John, the Marketing and Special Projects Manager for the city of Sand Springs. St. John has organized this special event for Sand Springs for the past two years. For most of its life, the Herbal Affair was actually run by a committee, but a few years ago it was adopted by The City of Sand Springs.

The Herbal Affair has a huge economic impact on Sand Springs. In fact, St. John mentioned that Riddle Plant farm claims the day as their biggest day of the year. With thousands of people being attracted to Sand Springs from out of town, it is bound to impact the economy in a big way. This event drums up business for Sand Springs’ shops in downtown, the hotels, restaurants, and gas stations.

Morgan’s Relax Packs are handcrafted heat packs designed for maximum muscle relief at affordable pricing.

About 25 to 40% of the vendors at the Herbal Affair are from the Sand Springs or Tulsa Metro area. While a little under half are from this specific area of the state, about 90% of the vendors are from Oklahoma. People know what they are going for when they go to the Herbal Affair. Almost all of the vendors are there year after year and that is one of the things that makes it so unique. The herbal affair has maintained a certain standard and character over the years and that, as well, is what makes it so incredibly special. When you go out to the Herbal Affair, you are truly supporting your friends and neighbors.

This event has something for just about everyone. Held in the heart of downtown Sand Springs, there are many unique shops and boutiques, like The Silver Linings Boutique which is on Broadway. The Herbal affair’s vendors don’t only sell plants and herbs, either. There are also craft vendors, as well as food and drink vendors. There will be entertainment for all ages, such as musical performances and a “Kid’s Zone” put on by volunteers from Church That Matters.

If you would like to attend this incredible event, it is being held this year on April 16th, from 9am-4pm, rain or shine! All of the information for the festival can be found at herbalaffairandfestival.com and also on the Sand Springs Herbal Affair & Festival Facebook page. 

The entertainment schedule for this year is as follows:

2016 Entertainment Schedule

8:30-9:30       Casey and Minna
9:30-10:30     Clyde Boyd Middle School Jazz Band
10:30-Noon   Spring Street
Noon-12:30   Hometown Hero Presentation
12:30-2:00    Janet Rutland Trio
2:00-3:00      Seven Feathers
3:00-4:00      Turtle Creek Clogger

Vendors at the event include community favorites such as: Whispering Vines Vineyards and Winery, Tomato Man, The Jelly Lady, Sugar Sisters, Sparks Vineyard, Rosemary's Kitchen, Riddle Plant Farm, Red Dirt Salsa, Pita Place Mediterranean Grill, Okie Dirt, Kountry Kitchen, and Harper's Hut Shaved Ice & Java. The complete list can be found on the city website. 

Bill & Ruth's is Sand Springs's best kept secret

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By Morgan Miller, Executive Director

Whenever I walk into a restaurant, I fully prepare myself for the possibility of not being able to find something to eat there. I have multiple food allergies and they make eating outside of my home nearly impossible sometimes. When I walked into Bill and Ruth's, I was completely prepared to have to walk away and find somewhere else to eat, but that was not the case.

As soon as we entered the restaurant we were greeted with genuine enthusiasm by the owner, Walid Mustafa. He then asked us what we would be eating, and I told him of my predicament. That did not phase Mustafa in any way though. He immediately began making suggestions and actively trying to find things that I would be able to eat. He offered to make a dish in an alternative way to avoid using an ingredient that I couldn't eat. It ended up being the perfect solution, and we decided that the grilled catfish with steamed vegetables was a meal that I could safely eat!

After we paid and went to sit down, Mustafa began personally preparing our food. He got all of it out very quickly and it was wonderful. The food was plated very well, and the portions were large. I ended up taking more than half of it home! Finally, the restaurant was very clean and welcoming. It was a completely positive experience for me. 

Morgan’s Relax Packs are handcrafted heat packs designed for maximum muscle relief at affordable pricing.

I would highly recommend anyone to visit this restaurant, there is a wide variety of foods and the service is always excellent. Bill and Ruth's is located at 351 East 2nd Street, Sand Springs, Oklahoma. They are open Monday through Friday from 9:30am-9:00pm, Saturday 11:00am-9:00pm, and closed Sunday. If you would like to make a to-go order you can call the restaurant at 918-245-3782.

Word of Life Free Community Carnival moved to Memorial Day Weekend

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Word of Life Church is preparing for their fourth annual Free Community Carnival, this year with some changes. Instead of taking place at the end of summer, the church is moving the date forward to the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend. The event will take place on May 28, 2016 from 11:00 am through 2:00 pm. 

Why the change? The ride company that the church was previously using is going through a transition and was unable to ensure their availability. Instead of putting the beloved community event on hiatus for a year, the church managed to locate an Oklahoma City based company that only had the one day available. Instead of looking at the change as an inconvenience, the church is counting it as a blessing and an opportunity to improve the experience for everyone.

Pastors Chad and Sarah (left) serving food at a past carnival.

"We feel Memorial Day weekend is a great time to do it since it's the first holiday of summer. Many families are looking for something to do, so why not a free carnival!" said Senior Pastor Chad Stewart. The temperature difference will also be a big improvement. The carnival volunteers have often had to work in 90+ degree temperatures in August, so the move to Springtime will make it far more enjoyable both for the workers and the guests.

This year the carnival will have seven rides and they are hoping to secure a Ferris Wheel, depending on availability. They plan on 3-4 large rides and 3-4 smaller rides for the little kids, in addition to games, inflatables, and other activities. As always, the church will be offering free hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones, and lemonade. There will also be food and game trucks associated with the ride company, Sam's Amusements & Carnivals. These additional options won't be free, but will provide an even more authentic carnival feel than in previous years.

Like last year, parking will be located at the old K-Mart building on Charles Page Boulevard, as well as Northwoods Fine Arts Academy, and free shuttling will be provided. 

Then, on Sunday morning, the church will be giving away $5,000 to bless guests at their 9:00 and 11:00 AM services. Each service will have five winners of $500 each.

March 22nd is officially Frank Cooper Day in Tulsa County, here's how you can celebrate

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Earlier this month, the Board of County Commissioners of Tulsa County declared today, March 22nd, 2016 to be Frank Cooper Day, in honor of the Charles Page High School social studies and leadership teacher Frank Cooper. 

Cooper has been a public school teacher for the past 23 years, after giving up a promising legal career to instead pursue a more fulfilling path. The proclamation reads what we all know, that "Mr. Cooper promotes core values of kindness, respect, honesty and affirmation so convincingly with students changing the entire culture of Charles Page High School."

Cooper has a long resume of recognition, including the 2016 Oklahoma Medal for Excellence and the University of Tulsa Secondary School Teacher Award for Inspiration. He was a 2014 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year finalist and was the subject of an American Story segment with Bob Dotson on NBC's Today show.

So how does one celebrate Frank Cooper Day?

Unfortunately there's no parade planned, but there are ways you can celebrate on your own.

Firstly, say the Pledge of Allegiance to the US Flag. Cooper begins every day by leading his class in the pledge, a practice that is more and more uncommon in schools today.

Then, circle up with your fellow Sandites and sing the Alma Mater. 

Charles Page High forever, and true to her we'll be
for to our Alma Mater we owe our loyalty.
Our love is always with thee
as onward we will go.
Charles Page High forever, may she live eternally.

Then, turn this up full volume, and sing along as loud as you can. Get your whole workplace involved if you can. Sweet Caroline has been an anthem for the Charles Page students for years and is frequently played at sporting events and performed by the band. This arose from Cooper frequently playing it in class with full participation. 

 

If you're looking to make a Frank Cooper playlist for the day, be sure and include Sugar Hill Gang's "Rapper's Delight," Vanilla Ice's "Ice, Ice, Baby," Journey's "Don't Stop Believing," and as much Elvis as you can get your hands on.

Finally, spend the duration of the day giving positive affirmation to everyone you encounter, especially to those who you normally wouldn't. Be kind to everyone, strangers included, and make everyone feel welcome and appreciated. If you like, you can email Cooper at frank.cooper@Sandites.org and let him know the impact he's made on your life or your student's life. 

Solace Church's Boo Bash draws thousands

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

There’s never been any shortage of Halloween fun to be had in Sand Springs, but one Prattville church is looking to make each year bigger and better than the last.

Solace Church put on their 8th annual Boo Bash carnival Sunday to major success and community involvement. Thirteen area businesses made contributions to the event which was hosted at the Tulsa Community College West campus for the fourth year.

Estimated crowds of between 4-5 thousand people showed up to enjoy the festivities, and there were plenty of fun and unique activities to participate in. 185 volunteers ran the event which included three carnival rides and eighteen inflatables which were all free to participate in. There were also seven food vendors on site selling fair-favorites such as BBQ sandwiches, funnel cake, snowcones, and more in addition to the tons of candy that was being given out.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol gave tours of one of their police choppers and Life Flight was there with a medical helicopter as well. The Oklahoma National Guard, Sand Springs Police, Sand Springs Fire, and Berryhill fire all participated with vehicle tours and candy, as well as the Solace Church Disaster Relief which is specially trained to respond to emergencies as soon as they happen. The Disaster Relief team coordinates with local relief efforts in events such as the 2013 EF5 Moore Tornado which killed 24. Solace and a local coalition of Baptist churches were on the scene immediately after that tragedy, as well as the March 2015 EF2 that destroyed more than 50 homes in Sand Springs.

Other contributors to the event include: Oklahoma Chiller, Oklahoma Medical Eye Group, Rebecca LaFevers State Farm Agency, Advanced Drywall Systems, D & N Fabrication, Heath-Griffith Funeral Home, Chinowth & Cohen Realtors, Dr. Richard Presley and Associates, Ovations Studio and Gym, Janeway Machine Inc., Downes Law Offices, Integrity Lighting, and Mars Candy.

Solace Church just turned 11 years old this August and is in its second year at its new location. In the last two years, the church has grown from an average attendance of 650 to over 1000. Though the church works together with the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma for disaster relief efforts, they are a non-denominational church. Their mission is simple: “Love God. Love People.”

  • Solace Church is located at 7314 W. 41st St. Tulsa, OK 74107
  • Service times are 9:15 & 11:00 AM on Sunday
  • www.Solacechurch.com

Do you have a story idea for us? Tips are always appreciated and can be sent to SanditePrideNews@gmail.com along with Press Releases, photos, or general inquiries. 

Local churches put on back-to-school-bashes for area youth

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By: Scott Emigh, Sandite Pride Editor

Church That Matters

                The Movement is the name of the youth ministry at Church That Matters on 41st street in Prattville, and they were sure moving fast last Wednesday at “The Meltdown.” The Meltdown is a back-to-school snowball fight put on at Church That Matters in conjunction with two local shaved ice stands. The Meltdown is a Harper’s Hut event that they offer to any organization, but this marks the second year that they’ve donated their service to CTM for no charge. CEO William Nozak and the owner of the Pink Shack both attend CTM so Nozak invites his business competition to join in the fun each year.

                The Movement had nearly a hundred students in attendance for an epic snowball fight that went through 780 pounds of shaved ice. It took over two hours to shave the ice that the students went through in only fifteen minutes, and they had a blast. There was free food, free drinks, a live band, and the church gave away five “Slide The City” tickets that had a $40 face value. Slide The City was an event this past weekend in Tulsa that turned three blocks of downtown street into a giant slip’n’slide. Ten students committed their lives to following Christ at The Movement that night.

                The Movement meets each Wednesday at 7PM at 3 West 41st Street under youth pastor Scott Bryan.

Word of Life

                Forward Youth is the youth ministry of Word of Life church at 1402 North 81st West Avenue. The youth, however, have their own location at 10th and Adams in an old QuikTrip building less than a block from Charles Page High School. Forward’s back-to-school bash was also a battle royale, but it was a lot less wet and a lot messier.

                Nearly a hundred students showed up to the third annual Whiteout event, which featured 200 pounds of different colored powdered paints. The students are advised ahead of time to wear all white clothing. Many students make their own t-shirts specifically for the event. The church has a professional photographer on staff who came out and set up a photo booth for before and after photos.

                When it came time for the event, the students were herded across the street to the Sandite practice field where they were divided into two groups and given their initial bags of powdered paint. Buckets of extra paint littered the grounds for those who ran out of their own supply. When the church leaders gave the signal the two lines ran at each other launching paint into each other’s faces and the whole group disappeared into a cloud of mixed colors. The battle doesn’t last long, only about fifteen or twenty minutes, but the students always have a blast. One student committed to following Christ.