Sam Shook wins inaugural SalsaFest at OkieSpice & Trade Co.

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OkieSpice & Trade Co. held their inaugural SalsaFest Saturday in Sand Springs and the event was a big success according to business owner Kim Zieg.

The event featured local craft, spice, and salsa vendors, as well as a homemade salsa making competition. Sam Shook took top prize in the salsa competition out of a field of 24. According to Zieg only a handful of the competitors were local and most traveled from out of town to participate.

“We exposed most to this area for the first time,” said Zieg. “Customers loved the event and the store. Our vendors were well pleased with their day and we had more entries than we could have hoped for!” She says the store plans to bring the festivities back next year.

OkieSpice opened in November of 2017 and have already made a big effort to be involved in the local community. In April they held their inaugural Westival event to coincide with the 29th Annual Herbal Affair and Festival. They are located at 501 West 2nd Street just west of downtown.

Sand Springs Sings: Mayor, Shriver, and Swan advance to finals

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The inaugural Sand Springs Sings vocal competition is shaping up to be a serious lesson in girl power.

Alohilani Mayor, Gracee Shriver, and Bryanna Swan took the top three spots at the September 4th semifinal competition and will advance to the finals in November.

The concert series is hosted by the Sand Springs Small Business Coalition in the heart of the historic downtown Triangle District. 

Mayor, 21, is a Hawaiian native living in Tulsa. She took top prize with a powerful rendition of Mack Gordon and Harry Warren's "At Last," a song made famous by Etta James in 1960. 

Shriver, a fifteen-year old rising star from Owasso, played acoustic guitar and sang "Two Sparrows in a Hurricane," written by Mark Alan Springer and recorded by Tanya Tucker. Shriver has been performing live since she was eleven years old and has nearly 5,000 followers on her Facebook page. 

Swan, also fifteen, visited from Pawhuska to finish third with a cover of "Cry Pretty" by Oklahoma native Carrie Underwood. 

Several Sandites competed in the event but failed to advance. Kristin Shipley, 16, adapted Linkin Park's "Invisible" for the ukulele. Kitty Fueshko, a Clyde Boyd Middle School math teacher, sang "God Bless the USA." Troy Dixon, a CPHS Class of 2003 graduate and National Guardsman, sang "Dream the Impossible Dream" while dressed in uniform. 

Other competitors were George Allen (61, Sand Springs), Ali Ellison (19, Cleveland), Jesse Kennard (Cleveland), Roger Rister (Glenpool), and Mylin Gipson (Tulsa). 

Mayor, Shriver, and Swan will join Dennis Smith (Sand Springs), Heather Rogers (Sand Springs), and Kimberly Bullard (Tulsa) in the finals on Small Business Saturday, November 24. One final preliminary will be held on Tuesday, October 2nd. 

Sand Springs City Council approves new parking lots for Case Park

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The Sand Springs City Council approved a new parking lot plan for Case Community Park at their regular monthly meeting.

The design, by Studio 45 Architects, provides for approximately 211 paved parking spaces in two locations, as well as curbs, guttering, and sidewalks. About 175 spots will be paved at the Jerry Adair Baseball Park, which is currently gravel.

An additional 36-space lot will be constructed at the Rotary Super Splash Pad, replacing an existing dirt parking area. A vehicular bridge was constructed over the creek during a recent park renovation, but funding didn’t allow for the completion of the project and the bridge was blocked off for pedestrian use only. The existing dirt parking area can’t be paved without the construction of an extensive retention wall.

Council approved the closure of a sixteen-foot wide alley between West 8th Street and West 7th Street and North Franklin Avenue and North Industrial Avenue. The applicant claims to currently be the only abutting land owner maintaining his share of the right-of-way, and has had to maintain the entirety of the alley. He hopes to take his case to District Court and receive ownership of the undeveloped alley so he can fence it in.

One abutting property owner objected due to her use of the alley for backyard access. Her backyard is tiered with a retention wall preventing riding lawnmower access to much of her land. City Staff recommended closing the alley while the City Planning Commission recommended maintaining it. Councilors Jim Spoon and Phil Nollan voted against the closure, while Beau Wilson, Patty Dixon, and Brian Jackson voted in favor. The closure only forfeits the City’s claim to the alley, and District Court will have the final say on whether to grant the land to the applicant or not.

William “Tom” Meshek was recognized with a Mayoral Proclamation for his fifteen years of volunteer service on the Sand Springs Development Authority.

Council approved a $30,673.00 expenditure for the purchase of a new ladder truck for the City Fire Department.

Council passed a resolution bringing the City codes in line with the recently passed State Question 783, legalizing the sale of refrigerated wine and beer at retail liquor stores.

Council approved a resolution eliminating language from Code of Ordinances Chapter 9.36 that will qualify the City for up to $20,000 in federal grants. The language does not change the intent or execution of the ban on tobacco or vapor on City property.

William “Tom” Meshek was recognized with a Mayoral Proclamation for his fifteen years of volunteer service on the Sand Springs Development Authority.

Astronomy Night at Keystone Ancient Forest set for Friday July 20

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs Parks Department along with the Broken Arrow Sidewalk Astronomers and the Keystone Ancient Forest Trail Guides invite the general public to a rare astronomy night on Friday, July 20. The gates open late at 9:30 p.m. and guests will be allowed to stay until after midnight. There will be NO hiking during this event. Trails will be closed.

An evening of star and planet gazing (weather permitting) is planned for this free event thanks to the help of the Broken Arrow Sidewalk Astronomers. This group will share as many as six high-performance telescopes (transportable) which range in size from 4-18 inch glass diameter to view the planets and stars. A brief introduction on astronomy will begin at 9:30 p.m., with viewing happening until the event concludes after midnight.

"This is a great opportunity for people to enjoy the Keystone Ancient Forest in a unique way," stated Jeff Edwards, Parks Director for the City of Sand Springs. "Even though it will be a late night to see the heavens, this is a great summer event for kids and families."

Astronomy activities will require a night free of cloudy overcast. For the latest updates on this and other hiking events, please follow the Keystone Ancient Forest FaceBook page. Pets are not allowed for this event. Porta potty service is available.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs Parks Department, contact their offices Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at (918) 246-2561 or visit www.sandspringsok.org.

Dual car shows, fireworks, and festivities set for Saturday in Sand Springs

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Car enthusiasts will get their money's worth Saturday in Sand Springs. Just a five minute drive from downtown Tulsa, visitors will find a perfect mix of modern and classic, American and foreign vehicles. A smattering of other activities will make Sand Springs a destination all weekend long. 

From 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. the Charles Page High School Cheer Program will be hosting the 2nd Annual Cheers & Gears Car Show in the high school parking lot at 500 North Adams Road.

The cheer team car show will feature classic and modern cars of all makes and models, as well as trucks and motorcycles. There will be food trucks, face painting, and family activities. 

From 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. the Tulsa Jaguar Club will be hosting their 8th Annual EuroMotor Extravaganza in the historic downtown Triangle District at 4 East Broadway. The event will be a fundraiser for the Sand Springs Animal Shelter and adoptable pets will be on hand. 

Out-of-town EuMoEx participants are invited to stay overnight Friday at Hampton Inn where the club will be hosting a tailgate party at 6:30 p.m. $30.00 day-of registration will be from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday with participant's choice voting beginning at 10:30 a.m. The club will hold a banquet at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church at 601 Lake Drive with dinner and awards from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 

For more information on the EuroMotor Extravaganza, visit www.eumoex.com 

Cheers and Gears will have day-of registration from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at $25.00. Judging will begin at 11:00 a.m. and awards will be presented at 1:00 p.m. 

No need to clear out of Sand Springs after the car shows wrap up, there's plenty of other activities to keep the whole family entertained.

From 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. the Keystone Ancient Forest will be hosting a Hike With Your Dog day. Visitors can choose from half a dozen trails in the 1,360-acre forest preserve, which features 300-year-old post oaks and 500-year-old cedars with wildlife and beautiful scenery. 

The Charles Page High School Volleyball Program will be hosting a 6-on-6 beach volleyball tournament in the newly renovated Case Community Park, which also features a Thunder Cares basketball court, a splash pad, playgrounds, Arkansas River access, disc golf, and numerous other activities. 

Five homes in Sand Springs are featured in this year's Greater Tulsa Parade of Homes, including 424 East 48th Street by WSB Homes, which won Best Overall in the $174,999 & Under category, as well as Best Interior Design. 

To wrap up the evening, families are invited to the 7th Annual Fireworks Preview Night and Kids' Funfest from Big Blast Fireworks at 17516 West 8th Street.

For a full itinerary of Sand Springs activities, visit: This Week in Sand Springs (6/17 - 6/24/18).

Use the navigation menu at the top of our website to "See Sand Springs" and find other activities, restaurants, shops, and attractions, such as the Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

First Tuesday on the Triangle concert draws crowds to downtown Sand Springs

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The "First Tuesday on the Triangle" concert series kicked off this week in downtown Sand Springs and organizers are calling the first event a success despite unseasonably high temperatures that may have kept some Sandites at home.

Let Slip The Dogs battled the heat with some cool tunes, performing a broad selection of covers ranging from The Cure to Stevie Wonder.

Local shop owner Stormy Miller opened up the show with guitarist Brian Parker. Though he didn't play any instruments, Miller was instrumental in getting the event organized. His store, The Harvest World Market, sponsored the concert stage and helped secure sound equipment.

Several local food trucks were on hand, including Mannford-based Kingdom Concessions with Mexidogs, elote, and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Jeremy and Tammy Myers served up Sonoran-style hot dogs, wrapped in bacon, and topped with refried beans, pico de gallo, and their secret Mexisauce. 

House District 66 candidate Rusty Rowe used the opportunity to meet local constituents, while his Democratic primary competitor, Angela Graham, took the evening off from campaigning and enjoyed the show with her son.

Several local businesses and organizations set up booths around the Triangle, including the Sand Springs Women's Chamber, who works to promote child literacy. The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum was also on hand, taking donations and selling raffle tickets for the Blue Dog Art Exhibit. 

SEE RELATED: Blue Dog art takes Sand Springs by storm

The concert series has an off-and-on history in Sand Springs, being organized by different organizations throughout the years.

The current face of the downtown revitalization is the Sand Springs Small Business Coalition, founded in 2017 by Joni Sporleder (Joni's on the Triangle Hair Salon), Susan Whitley (Yesterday to Now Antique Mall), and Jennifer Barretto (Chinowth and Cohen Realtors). 

The Small Business Coalition worked together with the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce and the City of Sand Springs to host the inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony which drew over a thousand people in December. The Tuesday on the Triangle series is the first event that the Coalition has hosted entirely on its own.

While the Chamber of Commerce works hard to improve the overall economy of the city, the Coalition, which includes several Chamber members, aims to host several events throughout the year to try and increase foot traffic into local restaurants and retail shops. 

First Tuesday on the Triangle won't be held in the month of July, due to the Sertoma Fireworks Show on July 3rd at Case Community Park. The concert will return on August 7th, followed by September 4th, and October 2nd. 

The Coalition is also working on festivities for various holidays as well as a poker run and car show in the near future. 

Oklahoma Blood Institute offers free Safari Joe's tickets for summer donors

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May 14, 2018-  Oklahoma Blood Institute has an exciting adventure in store for donors who give blood to help patients in local hospitals!

Donors who give blood NOW through August 30 will receive a limited edition “Let the Adventure Begin” t-shirt, and a voucher for two free admissions to Safari Joe’s H2O Water and Adventure Park.*

Oklahoma Blood Institute is proud to partner with Safari Joe’s, which features the Reptile Rush Slides & Raptor Rapids Water Roller Coaster as well as one-of-a-kind reptile and animal attractions.

“With summer on the way, we want to give donors another extraordinary reason to give the priceless gift of blood,” said John Armitage, M.D., president and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “Patients need blood 365 days a year, but the summer months present a unique challenge since so many of us are busy with travel and activities, and we may get out of our normal donation routines.”

Donors will also receive a coupon for a free honey butter chicken biscuit from Whataburger and a chance to win Whataburger for a year.*

Only ten percent of people in the United States who are eligible to give blood actually do.  Blood donation takes just about an hour, and each donation can save the lives of up to three patients. 

Donors also receive free health screenings. If they opt not to take the t-shirt, Oklahoma Blood Institute will make a monetary donation to Global Blood Fund for blood center assistance in developing countries.

As a non-profit blood center, Oklahoma Blood Institute’s donors provide every drop of blood needed for patients in more than 160 hospitals, medical facilities and air ambulances statewide including all Children’s, Veterans & Indian Hospitals. Approximately 1,200 volunteer blood donors are needed each day to maintain the supply.

Appointments are not required but can be made by calling Oklahoma Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visiting obi.org.

*16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.  Blood donation not necessary to enter prize drawing.

2018 puts the "chill" in Chillin & Grillin Festival

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The Seventh Annual Chillin & Grillin Festival didn't exactly go down without a hitch, but it was still one for the history books.

A frigid wave of winter weather brought the festivities to an early end, but the event also got started a day early. The Chamber of Commerce festival expanded to three days this year and added a carnival to the already busy schedule of activities.

Great Plains Amusement brought out classic carnival rides like the Tilt-A-Whirl, the Zipper, the Musik Express, a Ferris wheel, a merry-go-round and many other rides for both kids and adults.

Non-competition food vendors were on hand for the first time, feeding carnival-goers for the two days prior to the barbecue contest. Lee's Charburgers, 3 Feathers BBQ, Raphael's Southern BBQ, and Not Your Grandma's Cupcakes were all available, as were carnival classics like funnel cake, shaved ice, and chocolate-dipped cheesecake.

Student jazz bands from Mannford, Berryhill, and Charles Page High School provided the entertainment Thursday evening. Sand Springs local Jennifer Marriott headlined Friday and Midlife Crisis entertained on Saturday. 

The Third Annual Harper's Hut Classic Car Show partnered with Chillin & Grillin for the second year and was a crowd favorite. Richard Blair's Ford pickup won Green Country Federal Credit Union Best In Show. Robert Chesney won the Women's Pick with a Ford Galaxy 500, Nicholas Hancock won the Men's Pick with a Chevy Nomad, and Robin Riley won the overall Chillin & Grillin Best in Show title with a 1958 Chevy Corvette. 

The Kansas City Barbecue Society portion of the grilling competition was canceled this year, but the People's Choice Awards went unhindered. Keystone Chevrolet's "Smoking on the Line" team dethroned the defending champs from the Sand Springs Parks Department, who settled for runners-up.

2018 saw the festival's return to the newly renovated Case Community Park. Chillin was held at River City Park for its first five years, then moved to Pogue Airport last year while the park underwent a $6 million renovation and was renamed. 

29th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair & Festival set for April 21st

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs announces its plans for the 29th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair & Festival in downtown Sand Springs. The event occurs on Saturday, April 21, and runs from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. This year's event showcases more than 100 plant, herb, arts, crafts, food and wine vendors from around the four-state area. In addition to all of the gardening enthusiast items, this Herbal Affair features a half-dozen live musical performers on the historical stage at Charles Page Triangle Park in the heart of the downtown district. 

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs 29th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival

"This year's event is slightly larger than in the past, with a few more vendors adding to the diversity of our event," stated Grant Gerondale, Community Development Director for the City of Sand Springs. "What began as a small gathering of gardening enthusiasts with Ruth Leib and Sandi Byerly in 1989 has grown into Oklahoma's premier herbal festival."

With the positive growth seen this past year at the City's Riverwest Development just south of downtown, parking options at that site no longer exist. Event goers should rely heavily on the free parking and shuttle service at Charles Page High School (500 N. Adams Road) and utilize on-street parking around the downtown area. The free shuttle service will run from 8:00 a.m. until shortly after 4:00 p.m.

Each year the Sand Springs Herbal Affair offers shoppers a unique variety of tomatoes, herbs, annual and perennial plants and an assortment of arts, crafts, foods and wines. Visitors also enjoy the announcement of the "Hometown Hero" award, presented to a deserving Sand Springs citizen each year on the stage.

"This year's event brings in some new items and also goes back to some of the traditional roots of the festival," Gerondale added. "We'll feature eclectic gardening features like worm soil casings, a soil amenity for your garden, and we'll also see trendy hydroponically grown tomatoes. On the musical side of things we'll have the traditional sounds of the Shelby Eicher Trio, but we'll also bring back Dulcimer Magic which played the event for years. To end the day we've added the Sand Springs Community Band which did a fantastic job during last year's Riverfest grand opening at the new Case Community Park. I really encourage locals to come out and enjoy this great live music."

When you do come out, you'll be joining nearly 30,000 other visitors who make the annual trek to Sand Springs to get their fill of outdoor gardening plants, arts, crafts, and good food. This year's event features nearly 20 food operations to satisfy hungry strollers. 

"Who doesn't like the Amish chicken and noodles, right?" asked Gerondale. "You'll find old standby herbal affair foods and treats like fresh roasted nuts, but you'll also see some offerings like succotash and pitas."

This is a family and pet (on a leash) friendly outing as folks mingle amidst the historic downtown triangle of Sand Springs. Parents will want to check out the kidz-zone on the west side of the event area. Church That Matters is again hosting a variety of activities including a Radio Control Car display, kids petting zoo, snow cones and the chance for some Home Depot wood building kit activities. All of those activities are free to children.

The Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum will also be open and offers a great walk-through for interpretative displays and features a fine example of 1920's art-deco architecture.  The museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Is there a wine lover in your home? You won't want to miss the small wine-garden located immediately across from City Hall. Five area wineries will have small taster samplings on hand as well as a variety of their products for sale.

The City of Sand Springs encourages all event goers to step into the fun-filled shops that line the downtown streets of Herbal Affair. Unique and hard to find antiques, apparel and small treasures can be found in many of our small businesses in downtown Sand Springs.

Want to learn more? Check out our Facebook page in the days leading up to the April 21 event to find informative Herbal Affair event videos and details.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit  www.sandspringsok.org and www.seesandsprings.com.

Chillin & Grillin' expecting biggest year yet, still needing more BBQ contestants

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The Seventh Annual Chillin and Grillin Festival is expected to be the biggest one yet, says Chamber of Commerce President Kristin Valentin, but organizers are having a hard time finding enough competitors for the BBQ contest.

Chillin & Grillin is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the nonprofit Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce, and is a major economic driver for the City of Sand Springs. The festival will be held at Case Community Park from Thursday, April 12th through Saturday the 14th. After six years of hosting an official Kansas City Barbecue Society event, the Chamber decided to forgo the prestigious, but expensive, partnership. 

There are four categories of competition with a $1,000 grand prize and $500 reserve. The contest judges brisket, pork, ribs, and chicken. There is also a People's Choice category and a Kid's competition. Only four teams have committed to the full contest, and Valentin says they may have to cancel it if they don't get ten teams by Friday.

People's Choice will proceed unhindered and already has eight entrees. Visitors can pay $10 to eat their fill on Saturday and vote for their favorite overall team. The Church That Matters Holy Smokers won the first five People's Choice Awards and were dethroned by the Sand Springs Parks Department last year. 

In addition to barbecue, Lee's Charburgers, Not Your Grandma's Cupcakes, and Kettle Treats will also be on hand, as will numerous vendors of arts and crafts, clothing, cooking and barbecue supplies, and more. Yellow House Market and Boutique, Okie Spice and Trade Co., Cutco Cutlery, and BJ's Pit Stop will be setting up shop and Janicelynn Yazzie will be selling traditional Navajo jewelry and blankets. 

The festival has expanded to three days for the first time and will have a full carnival as well. Entry is free all three days. Carnival wristbands are $20/day in advance or $25 at the gate and can be purchased at Prattville Market, Verizon Wireless, and Green Country Federal Credit Union. The wristbands will provide unlimited rides on either Thursday or Friday. Rides are $3 apiece on Saturday. 

Food trucks, carnival rides, live music, and a beer garden will be on hand all three days, and the Harper's Hut Classic Car Show will be on Saturday with five Best in Show categories and unique custom trophies made from actual car parts. 

Student jazz bands from Mannford, Berryhill, and Charles Page High School will provide the entertainment Thursday evening. Sand Springs's own Jennifer Marriott Band will perform on Friday, and Midlife Crisis will play on Saturday. 

Parking will be free all three days.

"This year we are already ahead of the game and we're very excited about it. The sponsorships of the companies in this town that are supporting us and this event are amazing," says Valentin.

"We truly feel that these events are economic development in its purest form because it brings people to Sand Springs, gets people out of their homes and doing something that isn't very expensive. We're very conscious of making it moderately priced so that people can absolutely come out and enjoy it."

To enter the barbecue contest, contact Kristen Valentin at (918) 245-3221. To enter the car show, contact William Nozak at (918) 671-6352. Car show entrees are $15 in advance or $20 day of. 

Event sponsors: Green Country Federal Credit Union, OmniTRAX, City of Sand Springs, Webco Industries, Church That Matters, Cecil & Sons Discount Tires, Keystone Chevrolet, Osage Casino Hotel, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, Sam's Club, United Rentals, The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge, KRMG, Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service, Braum's Ice Cream and Dairy Stores, PepsiCo, and Reasor's. 

ZegART Studios opens in Sand Springs

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ZegART Studios held a grand opening Sunday at Atwoods Plaza in Sand Springs. The art studio is owned by Carey Zegart and Darla Satterfield Zegart and houses work from dozens of local artists.

Darla comes from a family of artists and has had a lifetime interest. She taught elementary math, science, social studies, and art for sixteen years in Keene, Texas before arriving in Oklahoma nearly seven years ago. She taught for Tulsa Public Schools and Broken Arrow Public Schools before retiring and opening the studio. She has also published two holiday-themed books that can be found on Amazon.

When relocating to Oklahoma, the Zegarts were initially looking for a home in Broken Arrow. They were accidentally rerouted to a house in Sand Springs that had the same address of the one they were planning to see. Darla credits the fluke as an act of God. 

"My passions are God, people, and art, in that order," says Darla. The studio aims to be a Christian-based, family-oriented, community-conscious establishment. In addition to providing a venue for local artists to sell their work, they also plan to provide the community with a place to learn and explore their own creativity. 

Artists are welcome to simply sell their works at the shop, or to become a ZegARTist and take a more involved role in the studio and the community. ZegARTists are featured on the website and promoted in the studio, and can be found in the studio teaching classes or working on their own pieces. Current ZegARTists include Sand Springs's own Kayla Adams, Marcos Fernandez, Leslie Reed, and Jane "Jezz" Strutt.

It's not just painting and drawing. Many mediums of art are taught and sold at the studio, including: stained glass, matting and framing, scrapbooking, scherenschnitte, woodburning, wire and metal, papier mache, and more. 

In addition to regular classes, the studio also welcomes large parties for events such as birthdays, bridal showers, and team building. They will host community fellowship on the first and last Saturday of each month from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. On the second Saturday of the month they will offer free classes for Super Seniors (Age 70+). 

ZegART Studios
700 E. Charles Page Blvd.
Sand Springs, OK 74063
(918) 704-4979
www.zegartstudios.com

HOURS
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - Noon, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Sand Springs golf course ranked among top-ten Best Value courses in United States

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Sand Springs, OK -  The City of Sand Springs' Canyons at Blackjack Ridge Golf Course has been named one of the top golf courses not only in Oklahoma, but in the U.S. The recent rankings come from Golf Advisor (golfadvisor.com) an online golfing review source, using feedback from golfers themselves. The 2017 rankings reflect online voting by golfers around the region and the results showcase the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge as the #3 rated top golf course in Oklahoma and among the Top 10 Best Value courses in the United States.

"We've been working on the course for more than ten years, and we're pretty pleased to be noticed in this manner," stated Brian Talley, Director of Golf for the City. "Our course has added many recent improvements like new tee boxes, pond features, beautiful vistas and our greens have been consistently strong."

The Canyons is a USGA sanctioned, 18 hole course overlooking the beautiful Tulsa skyline.  Each year tens of thousands of sports tourists play the course and enjoy the Sand Springs community. Talley says there are no shortcuts in producing the consistently strong product that is the Canyons golf course.

"Many hours are spent by staff every day monitoring the greens, irrigation and nutrient inputs which come together to create a fantastic golf experience for people", Talley added. "With many choices for people to play golf, we go the extra mile with great customer service and competitive rates to keep people coming back."

The Canyons boasts natural rolling topography and small canyons laid out across the course, providing unmatched natural beauty. In recent years the course's #12 hole was voted by Tulsa World readers as one of "Tulsa's Best Holes of Golf" with its dramatic cliff setting and nearly 200' vertical drop to the green below. 

The Canyons offers memberships, tournaments and lessons from PGA professionals. To make a golf reservation call (918) 246-2606 or visit www.canyonsatblackjackridge.com. 

For more information on the Golf Advisor resource, check out: 

 https://www.golfadvisor.com/best-of/

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit  www.sandspringsok.org and www.seesandsprings.com and follow the City on Face Book for the latest updates.

Organizers call Inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony a success

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Mayor Mike Burdge speaks at the Inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

The Holiday Season kicked off with a bang Tuesday night in downtown Sand Springs as larger-than-expected crowds turned out for the first known Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in town history. 

The inaugural event drew more than a thousand attendees to shop local, eat local, and watch Mayor Mike Burdge flip the ceremonial switch to kick off the 2017 Christmas season. 

The event grew from seed to harvest in a mere three weeks after local cosmetologist Joni Sporleder invited fellow business owners to her shop, Joni's on the Triangle, earlier this month. Representatives from Blush Hair Salon, YellowHouse Market & Boutique, Rod's Books and Relics, the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce, Sandite Pride News, Dog and Duck Antiques, and Yesterday To Now Antiques were joined by realtor Jennifer Barretto and Santa Claus entertainer Glen Burkett to brainstorm and begin the rushed planning process.

More than 3,000 lights illuminate a tree at the downtown Triangle for the Inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

The Sand Springs Parks Department graciously and meticulously decorated a tree on the Triangle with more than 3,000 lights, wrapping every single branch. 

Mrs. Marshall's Voice Studio and Olivet Baptist Church choir led the town in Christmas caroling while Three Feather's Catering, Lee's Charburgers, Monie Horsechief Indian Tacos, and Kettle Treats fed the crowd. 

Many downtown members of the newly-formed Small Business Coalition will be open later hours on Tuesdays from now on, and the success of the event has the organization planning future entertainment on the Triangle. In addition to looking at festivities for the holidays, they also want to host concerts throughout the year. 

The Christmas festivities will continue downtown this Friday beginning with the Inaugural Parade of Books at Rod's Books and Relics at 4:00 p.m. More than a dozen local authors will be selling books, giving autographs, and answering questions from fans, supporters, and aspiring writers. At 7:00 p.m. the 35th Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Parade will meander through downtown.

Inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony to kick off at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday

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This Tuesday marks what many Sand Springs residents and business owners hope will become an annual tradition. A tree in the downtown Triangle Park has been decked out in more than 3,000 lights and at 7:00 p.m. Mayor Mike Burdge will flip the switch to kick off the holiday season.

Originally the brain child of Joni Sporleder, the event has been coordinated by the City Parks Department, Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce, and the newly-formed Sand Springs Small Business Coalition. 

As part of the City of Sand Springs's ongoing efforts to brand Sand Springs as a tourist destination, several small business owners and concerned citizens have made it a goal to promote holiday activities throughout the month of December and to try and draw shoppers and diners back to the heart of the community.

From 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Mrs. Marshall Voice Studio choir will be caroling, then the Olivet Baptist Church choir will take over from 6:45 to 7:00. Mayor Burdge will speak and turn on the lights, then Olivet will resume caroling till 7:30. 

From 6:00 to 8:00 WSB Homes will host Birch Studio and artist Jade Crawford along with cocoa and hot cider. The architecture company is located on the triangle at 2 East Broadway Street.

Joni's on the Triangle hair salon will have cookies and hot chocolate at 211 North Main Street, and multiple food trucks will be on hand. Three Feathers Catering will be serving up the barbecue recipes made famous by Papa Pat, and Lee's Charburgers will be selling their selections from the historic Lee's Diner.

The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum will be open with their annual "Art of Giving" Christmas tree display. For $1.00 visitors can vote for their favorite tree, with each tree being sponsored by a local charitable organization. 

Several "Snapped in Sand Springs" photo booths are located downtown, including Beau Wilson Insurance (17 East 2nd Street), Blush Hair and Makeup Lounge (208 North Main Street), Inez Kirk City-Garden Park (101 East Broadway), City Hall (100 East Broadway), Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service (211 East Broadway), Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce (1 West 1st Street), Security Finance (15 East 2nd Street), Vintage Stables on Main (115 North Main Street), and YellowHouse Market and Boutique (122 North Main Street). 

A small "Sandite Santa" figurine will be hidden in various businesses around downtown Sand Springs through December 20th. Patrons who find the Santa can take a picture with it and post the photo to the "Shop Small, Sand Springs" facebook page for a chance to win a prize basket. 

A Crafty Christmas will return to the Shops at Adams Road Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. On Friday they will have free Santa photos from 5:00 to 6:00. 

Also on Friday, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Rod's Books and Relics will host their inaugural Parade of Books with more than a dozen local authors doing autographs and taking questions. The 35th Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Parade will be that evening at 7:00 p.m. 

SEE RELATED: Downtown Sand Springs to host local authors for Christmas Parade of Books

Sand Springs park officials announce details for upcoming Riverfest event

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Sand Springs Parks Department officials held a press event Tuesday morning at River City Park to announce the details of the upcoming Riverfest event. The park will be officially rededicated as "Case Community Park" with a Grand Opening celebration on Saturday, September 9th. City Council members will be on hand along with Mike and Pat Case, who donated $2 million to the park renovation.

"For those of you that don't know Mike Case, you should because he is a fantastic guy. He stands behind the community," said I.J. Ganem, a musician who will be performing at the event.

"About a month from now the park will be completed, and it will be open for business. We're very excited about that," said Parks Director Grant Gerondale.

The festivities will last from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and will include a car show, hot air balloons, sidewalk chalk art contest, free hot dogs, live music, fireworks, and more. 

Local band The Rogues Five will provide the entertainment for the event. The group of Sand Springs alumni charted regionally in the 1960s and opened for Jim Morrison and The Doors at the peak of their success. The band is comprised of I.J. Ganem, Randy Ess, Philip Wilson, Bard Coats, and Jamie Oldaker.

"What we tried to do as a committee in planning this party was reach out to all ages, to all genders, and I think we're doing that with the selection of these two artists," said Park Facilities Manager Jeff Edwards.

The Rogues will open up the show with classic rock music, while Morgan Ganem will perform during the evening festivities. Morgan is the son of I.J. and a prominent solo performer with residency at Safari Joe's H2O. 

(Left to right): I.J. Ganem, Morgan Ganem, Joy Turner, Jeff Edwards, Grant Gerondale.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs musician Morgan Ganem releases new album, Paradise

"It's a great community," said I.J. Ganem. "I remember actually being here at the river parks...with my father for the very first raft race...Today is actually my wife and my 36th anniversary and we had our first semi-date here." The Great Raft Race will return to the park Labor Day weekend.

"Anytime our city gets behind what we're doing, it's a big honor," added Morgan.

The Oklahoma City Thunder basketball organization will send representatives to dedicate a new "Thunder Cares" basketball court. The park renovation also features new playgrounds, horseshoe pits, an 18-hole disc golf course, improved infrastructure and parking, and additional multi-use athletic fields. The amenities are anchored around the 1.94-acre Great Lawn and amphitheater.

Parking is limited and a $10 fee will be collected in the late afternoon. The parking ticket will also serve as a raffle ticket for a television giveaway.

"We have a brand new entrance. A lot of people didn't even know we have a park here, and a lot of people didn't know how large the park is," said Edwards. "There's something for everybody...Whether Riverfest happens around this time of year, or if it happens at a different time, I think what we're going to do is build the excitement to have a large community-sized event. An all day thing that families can come out to enjoy and use the quality of life features that we have in the park for them."

Existing features within the park include the Case Community Center, Inez Kirk Soccer Complex, Jerry Adair Baseball Complex, Rotary Super Splash Pad, Will Ramsey Softball Complex, volleyball courts, a BMX track, and a rodeo arena.

The rodeo arena is slated for demolition this winter, while two new park improvements will be on the ballot in November. In a November 14 special election, Sand Springs residents will vote on five general obligation bond propositions. Proposition One calls for a new roadway to be constructed over the levee separating the park from the Sheffield Crossing development. Proposition Three will provide funds for a new paved parking lot at the baseball fields.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council approves General Obligation Bond vote for November

Oklahoma blood donors have a chance to win a new Buick Verano this Saturday

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One lucky donor who gives blood at selected Bob Moore Auto Group dealerships across Oklahoma, will drive away with a brand-new Buick Verano. Bob Moore Auto Group is teaming up with Oklahoma Blood Institute to hold a blood drive on Saturday, August 5, at Bob Moore Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Tulsa, located at 46th Street and Memorial Drive, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Five finalists will be chosen from donors who give blood at Bob Moore Auto Group dealership locations only. The odds of winning are expected to be about 1 in 1,000 depending on how many donors participate. The Buick Verano winner will be announced during a ceremony on August 19. 

“The Bob Moore blood drive not only offers our dedicated donors the chance to win a shiny new car, but they get the guarantee that they are saving someone’s life,” said John Armitage, M.D., Oklahoma Blood Institute President and CEO. “One blood donation saves the lives of up to three Oklahomans. Over the last seventeen years, we are so grateful to Bob Moore Auto Group for supporting our life-saving mission and the health of all Oklahomans.” 

Healthy adults, 16* and older, are encouraged to give blood. Free pizza from Papa John’s Pizza and other refreshments will be served. In addition to the chance to win a car, each donor will receive a pass for two to Safari Joe’s H2O Water Park, a coupon for an order of Papa John’s Garlic Knots, and a “Keep it Local” T-shirt. 

Oklahoma Blood Institute relies on approximately 1,200 volunteer donors per day to provide every drop of blood needed by patients in 90% of hospitals and medical facilities statewide.  This includes all Children’s, Veterans and Indian Hospitals. Oklahoma Blood Institute recently equipped all air ambulances in the state with O-negative blood to provide more immediate transfusions to trauma patients.

To schedule an appointment to donate blood at this event, call 1-877-340-8777, or visit www.obi.org. Walk-ins are also welcome.

* 16 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.

Great Raft Race adds Sand Sculpture Contest, rental crafts, and School Challenge

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The Great Tulsa Raft Race hosted a press conference Friday morning to announce four new additions to this year's event.

The Sand Sculpture contest that ran for more than a decade through the 1980s and 1990s will return. The contest reportedly drew a thousand competitors at its peak and was featured on Good Morning America in 1991. World Champion sand sculptor John Gowdy is expected to present a Tulsa-themed piece at the race's finish line and will judge the competition.

Kayaks and inflatable rafts will also be available for rent for the first time through the Raft Race website. Registration for the event ends August 15th for both contestants and renters. In addition to renting a craft for the full race, participants will also be able to rent kayaks at the finish line.

Three weeks prior to the event there will be a pre-party presented by the Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation at Fuel 66. Full details on that event are yet to be announced.

American Airlines Government Affairs liaison Chase Beasley announced a new STEM Challenge for area schools. The Regional STEM alliance will create a curriculum around raft building, while American Airlines Engineers will partner with KKT Architects to assist ten schools in the construction of their vessel. American Airlines will provide the entry fee for the student teams, but raft materials will not be provided. 

Raft Race officials will aim to select a diverse group of schools, including Tulsa Public Schools, Sand Springs, and other neighboring districts. Student teams must include five to ten participants including one adult. All students must be 12 years or older. 

The Tulsa tradition ran from 1973 to 1991 before being resurrected in 2015. The Labor Day race will launch in Case Community Park in Sand Springs and will end at the River West Festival Park in Tulsa.

Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum spoke at the event and announced his intentions to participate in the race. "We're doing so much right now to make this revitalized as the defining natural asset that we have here in Tulsa...For generations people were able to utilize the Arkansas River as a point of recreation, and last year the citizens overwhelmingly said 'we want that again.'"

"This is one day out of 365 that we get to use the river for recreation. Think about what it's going to be like here in a few years when you can use it any day of the year," said Bynum.

The official T-shirt for the event was also announced. The mermaid design will be the official shirt received in the registration package, but the runner-up design will also be available for purchase.

Participants can register for the race and find more information at www.tulsaraftrace.com.

Downtown Sand Springs experiencing growth and restoration with several new businesses

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YellowHouse Market and Boutique is the newest business coming to downtown after buying out Deja Vu Decor. 

A city's downtown business district is often considered the heart of the community. In Oklahoma, where municipalities are almost fully dependent on sales tax revenue for general operations, a healthy downtown can be paramount to a healthy economy. 

If City officials and local businesses have their way, Sand Springs will soon be one of the premier downtowns in the State to spend the weekend shopping and sightseeing. 

In the recently-approved Sand Springs 2030 Comprehensive Plan, the City identified having an assorted variety of downtown restaurants, businesses, and services as vital to creating a sense of place within a community. The plan sets a goal of enhancing the downtown area as one of the primary focal points of the community.

Beau Wilson Insurance.

In the past, downtown Sand Springs has struggled with attracting both patrons and quality business establishments. Vice-Mayor Beau Wilson attributes the lack of customers to lack of quality retail, the curb appeal of many older buildings, and a failure to market downtown as a destination for Sand Springs. He also says that this is beginning to change.

"Downtown has a number of thriving boutiques and antique shops," says Wilson. "We are beginning to see citizens reinvest in our historic downtown." Beau Wilson Insurance opened in the historic Boone-Rose Building at 17 East 2nd Street this past November. The building was constructed in 1924.

"When I was looking to relocate my business to Sand Springs, there was no other location but downtown in my opinion. My wife, business partners and I were fully committed to finding a location in downtown...and it has been an honor to restore and revitalize a piece of our town's history." 

Dog and Duck Antiques.

Just two doors down from Wilson, Chris and Julie Bedokis opened Dog and Duck Antiques at 21 East 2nd Street on Memorial Day weekend. The couple already had a small booth at the Vintage Stables on Main Street but decided to open their own facility. The store didn't open with much fanfare initially, and is tentatively planning on a Grand Opening event later this year.

Another newcomer to the downtown area is YellowHouse Market & Boutique. Lisa and Mike Miller first opened YellowHouse at the Livi Lee's Shopping Center in October, but just nine months later they're already planning on relocating to a larger facility in the downtown business district. 

The new YellowHouse location will be at 122 North Main Street in the former Chastain's Department Store building. "We did buy a new building. It's a larger space. It's going to help us reach Sand Springs with more clothes, more goodies, and lots of fun," said Lisa Miller in a Facebook Live announcement. The Millers plan to stay open in their current location until the new building's remodel is complete.

The Chastain's building, constructed in 1931, has been owned and operated by Laurie Joslin for the past two decades. At one point she owned the Kindred Spirits novelty shop in the front and The Back Porch Cafe in the back. The Back Porch Cafe acquired a front porch after Joslin purchased the building next door and relocated the diner. She rebranded as The Lunch Box, then rebranded again as Chastain's Casual Cafe and Catering. Eventually the buildings were separated and Joslin opened DejaVu Decor while the old restaurant building was purchased by Boomarang Cafe.

Joslin and her husband, Mark, have plans to relocate their business to The Antique Depot in Skiatook, but will still reside in Sand Springs. They plan on featuring their house in the 39th Annual Pilot Club Parade of Homes later this year.

Chip and Annette Stacy opened Stacys' Resale Shop at 12 East 2nd Street in September of 2016 and recently expanded to their neighboring storefront for a music and guitar shop. The store boasts a large array of modern and classic comic books, records, 8-track cassettes, CDs, jewelry, knives, home decor, furniture, and more. 

The shop is filled with dozens of classic Les Pauls, German fiddles, and other unique instruments and collectibles. Looking up at the walls is like a trip through a museum. Original Black Sabbath, Jim Morrison, Joan Jett, Elvis, Willie Nelson, and other vinyl records wallpaper the store.

Troy and Stephanie Cleveland opened The Vintage Stables on Main in 2016 and performed one of the most notable restorations in recent years. The bright red barnstyle building could easily serve as a stop sign, telling drivers to pull over and shop. 

WSB Designs, LLC.

It's not all shopping in downtown, either. After the passing of Reverend Terry Scott in October, Future Vision Ministries closed their office on the Triangle and sold to local builder William Bell. Bell recently showcased a house in the Tulsa Parade of Homes and is still renovating his new studio. The front of the building pays homage to its prior resident with a quote from Scott. 

Unfortunately, not all classic buildings can be saved. In April of 2012, a fire devastated a historic building housing the Sand Springs Beauty College and Covington Credit. The skeleton remained until 2016 when it was demolished by the Sand Springs Home and construction began on a new retail/office building.

Left, damage from the 2012 fire is cordoned off with caution tape. Right, a new building is erected in the same location.

"The City has made tremendous strides in the past few years to give downtown its identity and purpose," says Wilson. "Under the excellent leadership of City Manager Elizabeth Gray and her staff, we will continue to see downtown prosper."

"As a city, we have some of the most talented employees. Many of whom donate their own time and particular talent and skill-sets to make Sand Springs better. Take the Triangle for example. Jeff Edwards and Grant Gerondale and the entire Parks Department took on that project making it what it is today...it truly is our employees who make the difference and will be the engine behind fueling the growth of downtown."

"I can remember a day when I was a kid when downtown seemed like a ghost town. Especially when all of the growth and emphasis was to the south of Sand Springs...Urban renewal and suburban sprawl were the catch phrases of the day. Rather than restore old buildings, it was easier to tear down and build something new, or reface old buildings with a new modern facade, losing that building's history entirely."

As to the future, Wilson says that the current City Council is committed to saving Sand Springs history. He would like to see downtown business owners take a more active role in beautifying their buildings, with further investment by both the city and its businesses. 

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Jaguar Club's EuroMotor Expo raises more than $600 for Sand Springs Animal Welfare

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Sand Springs Animal Control Officer J.E. Schmidt is presented with a check from the Jaguar Club of Tulsa. SUBMITTED.

The Jaguar Club of Tulsa resurrected their annual EuroMotor Extravaganza in downtown Sand Springs this year after a five-year hiatus. The event drew nearly fifty entries and raised $607 for the Sand Springs Animal Shelter.

In addition to the beautiful cars, the event also included a silent auction to benefit the Sand Springs Animal Shelter and an awards banquet and wine bar. The club successfully raised $607, the most they've ever raised according to Vice President Clark Frayser.

Click here to view our full photo gallery of the event.

The Euro Expo first arrived in Sand Springs in 2007 and set a precedent of giving back to the community by donating all proceeds to the Sand Springs Home and the Shriners' Transportation Fund. It ran annually for six years before having its final event in 2012.

A pair of classic Austin Healeys at the 7th Annual EuroMotor Extravaganza. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

This year the club picked up right where they left off, packing out the downtown parking with Fiats, Volvos, MGs, and more. A gorgeous blue sky with a slight breeze and high of 85 degrees made for near-perfect conditions for the festivities. 

Jaguars were the best-represented vehicle at the show with a dozen entries, closely followed by the Italian Alfa Romeo with ten entries. 

There were fifteen total classifications in the event, with trophies awarded for first through third place in each category. 

The oldest vehicle at the show was Todd Coady's 1928 Bentley 4 1/2 Litre, followed by Les Neidell's 1938 Gulf Miller Indy Roadster. The newest vehicles were a pair of 2017 Fiat 124 Abarths. The 1928 Bentley won Best of Show.

Todd Coady's 1928 Bentley 4 1/2 Litre won "Best of Show" and was the oldest vehicle in the Expo. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

2017 Euro Expo Winners:
Richard Salamon - 1955 Jaguar XK140MC
David & Judy Nichols - 1995 Jaguar XJS Convertible
Scott & Linda Young - 1974 Jaguar XJ6-L
Glenn & Carol Larson - 2004 Jaguar XKR
Clark Edwards - 1978 Fiat 124 Spider
Svenskraft - 1983 Saab C900
David Simmons - 1967 Alfa Romeo SS
David Simmons - 1972 Alfa Romeo Montreal
Richard Salamon - 1954 Austin Healey 100M
Paul Jennings - 1955 MG TF1500
Todd Coady - 1928 Bentley 4 1/2 Litre
Ben Anderson - 1965 Citroen 2CV
KL Mayfield - 2001 BMW Z3
Les Neidell - 1938 Gulf Miller Indy Roadster
Glenn & Carol Larson - 1960 Triumph TR3A