Sterling Auxiliaries to Acquire Sand Springs Chemicals Manufacturing Site from Baker Hughes

SOUTHBURY, Conn., Sept. 24, 2020 -- Sterling Auxiliaries Pvt. Ltd. and its parent company, Artek Surfin Chemicals Ltd., a leading producer of specialty chemicals with manufacturing capabilities across four continents, have agreed to acquire the land and assets associated with Baker Hughes' Sand Springs, Oklahoma, chemicals manufacturing facility.

The Sand Springs facility, which includes approximately 120 employees who will transfer with the sale to Sterling, manufactures oilfield specialty chemicals. As part of the transaction, Baker Hughes will enter into a long-term toll manufacturing agreement with Sterling at the Sand Springs manufacturing site. The new Sand Springs entity will be called Sterling Specialty Chemicals LLC.

"The purchase of Baker Hughes' Sand Springs chemicals manufacturing assets is another key step in our global vision and growth strategy as we continue to pursue additional strategic acquisitions such as this," said Vishal Goenka, director, Artek Surfin Chemicals Ltd., parent company of U.S.-based Galata Chemicals and India-based Sterling Auxiliaries. "Sterling and Baker Hughes have worked together globally for nearly 10 years. This transaction is a testament of our deep relationship, and we look forward to continue this partnership in the years ahead."

The transaction is expected to close by September 30, 2020.

About Sterling Auxiliaries Pvt. Ltd.:
Formed in 1984, Sterling Auxiliaries has grown to become a leading manufacturer and supplier of Surfactants, Ethanol Amines, Antioxidants, Esters & Specialty Chemicals.  With exports spanning over 65 countries, Sterling caters to various industries including Home & Personal Care, Oil Field and Gas Treatment Plants, Metal Finishing, Agro Chemicals, Textile Industries, Leather Chemicals, Pharmaceutical, Paint & Pigments, Construction Chemicals etc. For more information, please visit www.sterlingaux.com.

SOURCE Artek Surfin Chemicals Ltd.

City of Sand Springs announces downtown redevelopment grant program

Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs announced Wednesday the creation of a new downtown redevelopment program which can help commercial building owners improve their older, vacant facilities. The new “White Box” grant program kicks off this month with applications and instructions available online for interested commercial property owners whose site qualifies. The program will be administered by the City of Sand Springs Planning Department with approval process provided through the Sand Springs Development Authority (SSDA). The White Box grant program incentivizes rehabilitation work for sites located within a specific downtown revitalization area in Sand Springs.

“We’re excited to roll out this new program as an incentive for qualifying downtown commercial business owners”, stated Troy Cox, SSDA Chair. “Our goal is to use this public/private venture in the form of a reimbursable grant program to do work in the heart of downtown Sand Springs. We aim to help commercial property owners improve both the functionality of their building and keep improving the outward appearance of our community.”

The White Box grant program offers an 80% reimbursable grant award for work done on vacant buildings that fall inside the grant program area. The maximum grant award available is $10,000 (ten thousand dollars) and property owners are limited to one grant per year. For example a property owner might receive up to $8,000 back for expenses incurred on an approved maximum grant project of $10,000. Projects may exceed $10,000 to accomplish major work, but reimbursement amounts are capped at the $10,000 grant project amount.

Grant eligibility requirements include:

  1. All work being done must be done on an existing, currently vacant, commercially-zoned building on property located within the program boundaries.

  2. The program is available to business owners and property owners for work performed on the interior of currently vacant spaces.

  3. Grant funds cannot be used to correct outstanding code violations, for property damage by collision, acts of nature or occurrences covered by insurance.

  4. Only work begun after approval by the Sand Springs Development Authority (SSDA) will be eligible for grant funds.

  5. All work must comply with the City of Sand Springs Building Department Code requirements and all relevant permits and inspections are required.

  6. If a retail or commercial business is applying for the grant, only one white box grant will be awarded per business. If the property owner is applying for a grant, only one white box grant may be awarded within a calendar year.

  7. Projects requesting funding for retail and restaurant commercial spaces is preferred over office uses and will be given preferential treatment in the event of funding shortages for awarding of grants.

Eligible expenses include:

  1. Interior plumbing in compliance with current building code

  2. Electrical in compliance with current building code

  3. HVAC in compliance with current building code

  4. Fire Suppression measures including kitchens in compliance with current building code

“This is a very accessible and valuable tool for downtown commercial property owners,” said City Planner Brad Bates. “With this grant program now in place, investors and property owners have a clear path to receive sizeable incentives to do work on older or outdated properties to make them viable again in our downtown.”

The application is now available on the City’s website, including grant program details. Applicants should be prepared to provide enough documentation and research on their planned improvement project to aide in the review of their grant application. A design review committee from SSDA will determine the merits of all applications and direct the amount of the award to any applicant who meets the criteria.

To receive reimbursement following a grant award, projects must be completed within 120 calendar days (there are grant extensions possible of up to one year), must conform to the submitted grant application and must produce workmanship that is customary to the industry.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Torrential downpours cause road collapse, business closure in Sand Springs

After weeks of little to no rain, Sand Springs got overloaded this past weekend. According to the Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center weather station in Sand Springs, the town received more than three inches of rain in a two-hour period Saturday night. The rapid downpour was enough to flood OkieSpice and Trade Co. at 107 North Main Street, causing the business’s indefinite closure. It also caused a section of 10th Street to collapse just west of 81st West Avenue.

POSTOAK Lodge to host "Summer Shindigs" including music, yoga, and more

2017 Wine and Jazz Festival at POSTOAK Lodge.

POSTOAK Lodge has pulled out all the stops and swung their front gates open wide to welcome in a summer of celebration with their Summer Shindigs! Spring may have had us flattening a curve and tightening our belts - but we did it - together! Come on out for some relaxing live music on Thursday nights, some rejuvenating body and soul workshops on Saturdays, or dinner and room packages. What better place for all three than out at POSTOAK Lodge on 1,000 acres of beautiful vistas?

Summer Shindigs at the Lodge will resume June 25th with the Sounds of Summer Thursdays featuring Denise Hoey and Mike Wilson. From 5:30 to 7:30 it's a BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket - or lawn chair) and enjoy live music in the shade under an Oklahoma sky. Willow Cafe will be open for beverages, snacks and sandwiches, but the music is FREE!  Trisha Kerkstra, general manager of POSTOAK, said “We'll be taking care of our musicians the old-fashioned way and will be passing the hat for donations to support the performers each Thursday. They have been hit as hard as our industry; thus, it is a way we can lighten the load and help one another by giving them a performance outlet and inviting folks out to the Lodge”.

June 27, 2020, kicks off the Body, Mind, & Soul Series on selected Saturdays with Yoga in the Oaks. It might be Zumba one week or Yoga the next, but the body and soul workshops will be inexpensive opportunities to try something new in a spacious and beautiful setting. 

So, come on out to POSTOAK Lodge for some Summer Shindigs filled with social distancing fun! Just minutes from downtown Tulsa, enjoy urban amenities amidst rural extravagances. We are unique, and uniquely safe as Osage County, Oklahoma has cornered the market on social distancing fun!

For more information, call 918.425.2112 or visit  www.postoaklodge.com

Work underway at new Sand Springs park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce hires Kyle Smith as new President

Erick Stuckey (left) welcomes Kyle Smith (right) to the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce. (SUBMITTED).

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the hiring of new President, Kyle Smith. After a four-month search process the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors unanimously voted to employ Smith as the new head of the Chamber of Commerce. 

Smith is originally from Chicago and his career has led him through Detroit and eventually to Tulsa. He has extensive experience in sales and management and brings an exciting resume of experience to Sand Springs.

“Kyle has an energetic leadership style; this combined with experience in non-profit and for-profit management positions makes him uniquely qualified to lead the Sand Springs Chamber,” said Erik Stuckey, the Chairman of the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. 

Smith has worked for Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Pfizer Inc, and multiple pharmaceutical companies. For the past five years, Smith has led the management team for Workforce Tulsa in both their Tulsa and Sapulpa locations.

“I’m both humbled and excited to work with the Sand Springs Chamber. To take the role as President will be challenging but I know with help from this historic community and guidance from above, we will have a mutually beneficial relationship,” Smith said.

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce currently has 264 active members and is growing.  Over the past few years, the Chamber has focused its effort on the launch of the Webco Industries Center for Entrepreneurial Engagement, which currently houses a co-working space and a new business incubator. 

“As a former Project Director and One Stop Operator, overseeing the day to day operations was nothing short of a learning journey. I believe those roles have prepared me to be a leader and performer. I hope to keep that standard of excellence with the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce.”  Smith said.

The Chamber of Commerce is in the process of re-opening from the COVID-19 closures.  Should things continue a re-opening path many of the Chamber events will resume over the summer and fall. For more information on future events, visit the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Facebook page or the website at www.SandSpringsChamber.com.

Tulsa Federal Credit Union branch in Prattville Reasor's to close June 30

Tulsa Federal Credit Union announced Tuesday that the Prattville branch located inside the Sand Springs Reasor’s grocery store will be closing at the end of the month.

“Tulsa Federal Credit Union leadership, along with the Board of Directors, have made the difficult decision not to renew our lease for the Prattville Reasor’s branch located at 3825 State Highway 97, Sand Springs, OK 74063,” reads the public statement. “A Tulsa FCU ATM will remain accessible inside the Prattville Reasor’s store indefinitely, but the last day of business at this location will be June 30, 2020.

Since this branch opened in 2012, it has contributed greatly to our growth and success in the Sand Springs area. While Prattville has been an integral part of that success, the majority of member activity at Prattville are simple transactions which can still be done through our ATM on location or via Online/Mobile Banking. In addition, we believe we can more adequately service our Prattville and Sand Springs membership through our traditional branch located at 220 Jefferson Street, Sand Springs, OK 74063.

Our branches continue to be a vital channel to deliver products and services to our membership, potential members, and our community. To sustain our branches’ livelihood in an industry with ever-evolving technology, we must strategically invest in our branch infrastructure to grow and improve our branch network. Our recent branch renovations and new branch in Midtown Tulsa, which opens later this summer, are evidence of that commitment.

Financially, Tulsa FCU remains strong as we approach $800 million in assets with more than 56,300 of members. The current employees of the Prattville branch have been offered comparable positions within our organization.

Our primary objective through this closure is to provide you with the same exceptional member service and convenience you have come to expect from us. Depending on your needs, there are several ways you can continue your relationship with us.

  • The in-store ATM at the Prattville Reasor’s will still be available 24/7/365 to process cash and check deposits, cash withdrawals and transfers.

  • Visit one of our other 12 Tulsa FCU locations including our Sand Springs location which is only 3 miles from the Prattville branch.

  • Whether you are currently using online/mobile banking or not, there are many features you may benefit from utilizing like bill pay, automated transfers, mobile check deposit, and a robust money management portal.

  • The Member CARE Center is available at 918.610.0200, Monday - Thursday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

  • Tulsa FCU is a shared branching network partner which means our members can handle basic transactions at any credit union in the CO-OP network nationwide. There are several locations near the Prattville location, including Green Country FCU located at 3350 South 113th, Sand Springs, OK 74063.

We would like to thank you for your membership and are grateful for the trust you place in us as your financial partner. We look forward to continuing to serve you into the future.”

Sand Springs Chick-fil-A to open drive-through and curbside pickup on June 4th

The new Chic-fil-A restaurant in Sand Springs will hold a limited opening on Thursday, June 4th. The restaurant lobby will not be open, but the drive-through and curbside pickup will be available from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The fast-food chain announced it would be building in Sand Springs in December as the first business in the City of Sand Springs-owned Sheffield Crossing shopping center.

The City of Sand Springs recently completed work on a new Highway 97 intersection, complete with a new four-way stoplight. The light has not yet been activated, but should be turned on at least a week before the restaurant opens.

Chick-fil-A is a family-owned company based in Atlanta, founded by S. Truett Cathy in 1967. The franchise operates more than 2,500 restaurants in 47 states, Washington, D.C., and Canada. Newsweek’s 2019 America’s Best Customer Service report named Chic-fil-A the top fast food restaurant in the country.

Typically, new Chic-fil-A restaurants open with fanfare and giveaways, but those details have not yet been released for the Sand Springs location.

Gov. Stitt signs bill legalizing curbside pickup and home delivery of alcohol

(*Editor’s note: both House District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted in favor of the bill).

OKLAHOMA CITY – A convenience to Oklahoma consumers born out of the pandemic will be allowed to remain in place.  The measure, by Sen Roger Thompson, R-Okemah, and Rep. Kevin Wallace, R-Wellston, allows curbside sales or home deliveries of beer, wine and spirits to continue.  Gov. Kevin Stitt signed Senate Bill 1928 into law Thursday. 

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission (ABLE) allowed restaurants, grocery and liquor stores to serve customers through curbside service and delivery.  I’ve talked to many citizens who really appreciated the convenience and didn’t want to see it end. This measure will allow that service to continue,” Thompson said.  “It’s another important step in continuing to modernize Oklahoma’s liquor laws, offering more choices to consumers.”

Under SB 1928, delivery or curbside service of beer, wine or spirits would have to be provided by the establishment holding the license—third party companies cannot deliver those products.  Restaurants, grocery and convenience stores can only provide curbside sales or home delivery of beer or wine.  Liquor stores can provide that service for beer, wine and spirits.

“We found during the COVID-19 pandemic that this practice worked well and posed no additional public safety problems for law enforcement or anyone else in the general public,” Wallace said. “This will allow this ease of commerce to continue in the future, and it’s a welcome addition to the services we allow consumers and our small business owners.”

Senate approves legislation allowing restaurants, grocery, convenience and liquor stores to continue curbside sales/deliveries of alcohol

OKLAHOMA CITY – The full Senate has given approval to a bill that will enable Oklahomans to continue to take advantage of curbside sales or home deliveries of beer, wine and spirits.  Sen. Roger Thompson, R-Okemah, is principal author of Senate Bill 1928.  The measure was approved Wednesday with bipartisan support.

“As businesses were closed or operating under restricted procedures because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission (ABLE) allowed restaurants, grocery and convenience stores and liquor stores to serve customers through curbside service and delivery.  It’s a convenience people have really appreciated,” Thompson said.  “This legislation will allow businesses to continue to offer that service even after the pandemic.  If someone is at home and would like to have a meal and a bottle of wine available for curbside service or delivered to their home, they’ll be able to do that.”

Under Thompson’s legislation, the delivery or curbside service of beer, wine or spirits would have to be provided by the establishment holding the license—third party companies cannot deliver those products.  Restaurants, grocery and convenience stores can only provide curbside sales or home delivery of beer or wine.  Liquor stores can provide that service for beer, wine and spirits.

Once the House of Representatives approves SB 1928, it will move to the governor for his consideration.

“I thank my fellow members for their support on this legislation,” Thompson said.  “I think this is a major boost for the people of Oklahoma as we continue to modernize our liquor laws.”

Chamber President Kristen Cepak says farewell to Sand Springs

Kristen Cepak receives a Mayoral Proclamation from Sand Springs Mayor Jim Spoon at the February City Council meeting, recognizing her contributions to the community.

Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce President Kristen Cepak submitted the following letter to Sandite Pride. She is moving back to Texas soon to take care of her parents.

“Dear Chamber Partners and Community Members,

Thanks to each of you for your partnership and friendship during my time with the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce. This has been a time of growth and discovery for this community. I have never known a community that comes together in the face of adversity as Sand Springs does.

While in Sand Springs, I have encountered love, encouragement, and support. The friendships I have made will strengthen me as I move forward to help my parents with their health issues.

‘There are only two ways to establish a competitive advantage; do things better or do them differently’ — Karl Albrecht.

The Chamber Board of Directors and I wanted to change the perception of the Chamber within the community. Therefore, we worked together to bring new programs to the members and new events to the community. We now have lovely lights on the buildings downtown at Christmas time and beautiful new life-size ornaments where families may pose for holiday photos. We also have new programs that will help our Chamber partners grow within their businesses.

My heart is full of love for Sand Springs and this amazing community. Please take care of each other during this difficult time in our history and know that I will always think of Sand Springs as my second home…always.

Kristen Cepak
President of Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce”

Sand Springs reaches 30 total cases of COVID-19, Oklahoma at 3280

The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 3280 with 2167 recoveries, leaving 1113 active cases. The virus has claimed 197 lives statewide, but nobody has died in the past 24 hours. 306 individuals are currently hospitalized. Sand Springs has totaled 30 cases, with one death and 21 recoveries.

The state has currently processed 53,338 negative tests and has more than 48,000 collection kits available. A complete list of drive-through testing sites can be found at this link.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 957,875 cases nationwide with 53,922 deaths. Oklahoma is 34th in total cases (42nd per capita) and 29th in total deaths.

The World Health Organization is reporting 2,858,635 cases worldwide with 196,295 deaths. The United States lead the world in total cases, followed by Spain with 219,764, Italy with 195,351, and Germany with 154,175.

Personal care businesses such as hair salons, barbershops, spas, nail salons, and pet groomers have been allowed to reopen in Sand Springs, with restrictions. They can take appointments only, with no walk-ins.

Beginning Friday, May 1st, dining, entertainment, sporting venues, gyms, churches, and tattoo parlors will be allowed to reopen citywide, all with restrictions. Bars will be required to remain closed for the foreseeable future.

City of Sand Springs announces dates and guidelines for reopening businesses

Sand Springs, OK - Sand Springs Mayor James O. Spoon has signed a Mayoral Proclamation guiding local efforts to follow the Open Up and Recover Safely (OURS) plan issued by Oklahoma Governor Stitt. Today’s Mayoral proclamation supersedes all previously issued proclamations and takes effect in Sand Springs 11:59 P.M. Thursday, April 23, 2020 as the community combats the impacts caused by the COVID19 pandemic. One significant deviation from the OURS plan includes maintaining the existing public health guidelines for City of Sand Springs Parks and facilities (including the Case Community Center), which remain unchanged until further notice.

The proclamation follows the “Open Up and Recover Safely” plan, which implements a three-phased approach to regain normal working operations over time. Contents of the OURS plan (for more information on the Governor’s plan visit: https://www.governor.ok.gov/ ) are supported by today’s Mayoral proclamation and generally include:

For Employers:

  • Implement policies and practices for temperature checks; sanitation and disinfection of common areas.

  • Implement policies and practices for workforce contact tracing; limiting business travel; practicing social distancing and use of PPE (personal protective equipment).

For Individuals:

  • Continue adherence to CDC guidelines.

  • Practice washing hands; disinfecting.

  • Consider using face shields/masks while in public.

  • Minimize non-essential travel.

For Businesses in Sand Springs: Beginning on Friday, April 24, 2020, the following businesses can reopen:

  • Personal care businesses, such as hair salons, barbershops, spas, nail salons, and pet groomers can reopen for appointments only, must adhere to sanitation protocols, and follow guidelines posted on the Oklahoma Department of Commerce website regarding social distancing between customers and visitors at personal care businesses.

  • Grocery stores should continue to maintain hours for vulnerable populations.

Beginning on Friday, May 1, 2020, the following Sand Springs businesses can reopen:

  • Dining, entertainment, movie theaters and sporting venues can operate using CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols.

  • Gyms can reopen if they adhere to CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols.

  • Places of worship can reopen for in-person meetings or worship if they leave every other row or pew open and adhere to CDC-recommended social distancing and sanitation protocols, plus the recommended guidelines from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.

  • Bars should remain closed.

  • Tattoo Parlors can reopen for appointments only and must adhere to sanitation protocols and social distancing protocols for distancing between customers and visitors.

Under the OURS plan, the goal of May 15, 2020 Once hospital and incident rates remain at a manageable level for 14 more days, the following phase will apply:

Individual guidance:

  • Continue following safer-at-home guidelines if they are over 65 or part of a vulnerable population.

  • Maintain social distancing from others when in public.

  • Avoid socializing in groups that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing.

  • Consider resuming non-essential travel.

Employer guidance:

  • Close common areas or enforce social distancing and sanitation protocols.

  • Honor requests of personnel who are members of a vulnerable population for special accommodations.

  • Employers are recommended to implement social distancing protocols, which include proper sanitation and use of protective equipment when interacting with the public.

Specific Employer guidance:

  • Organized sports activities can reopen and operate under proper social distancing and sanitation protocols.

  • Visits to Senior Care Facilities and Hospitals should still be prohibited.

  • Bars can operate with diminished standing-room occupancy, where applicable and appropriate, and under social distancing and sanitation protocols.

  • Funerals and weddings can resume under social distancing protocols.

  • Children’s nursery areas in places of worship can reopen.

Under the OURS plan, the goal of June 1, 2020:

Once hospital and incident rates remain at a manageable level statewide for 14 more days, the following phase will apply, which will allow for further public interaction.

Employer guidance:

  • Can resume unrestricted staffing of worksites.

Specific Employer guidance:

  • Summer camps (church and school) can open.

  • Visits to Senior Care Facilities and Hospitals should still be prohibited.

Citizens are encouraged to maintain social distancing measures, minimizing groups to 10 or fewer people and follow all CDC guidelines for disinfecting common areas. Today’s measures may be modified in the future as revised data and COVID-19 related information is made available

City of Sand Springs issues Shelter in Place order

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

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

Proclamation Declaring State of Emergency

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  3. To perform work at an Essential Business.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PROCLAIMED THIS 1ST DAY OF APRIL, 2020.

Governor Stitt announces sweeping business restrictions to combat COVID-19

OKLAHOMA CITY (MARCH 24, 2020) – Governor Kevin Stitt held a press conference Tuesday to provide an update on the State’s response to COVID-19 and announce amendments to Executive Order 2020-07.

“We remain committed to making decisions based on reliable data, emerging science and the advice of experts from my Governor’s Solution Task Force, the State Department of Health and the CDC on how to best slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Gov. Stitt. These new action items will allow us to ensure we remain proactive in our response to this on-going crisis. We will continue to take the necessary precautions and steps in order to prioritize the health and safety of all 4 million Oklahomans.”

The amended Executive Order provides for the following statewide measures:

  • Issues a statewide “Safer at Home” order for adults over the age of 65 and vulnerable individuals with serious underlying medical conditions.

  • Limits gatherings to no more than 10 people.

  • Prohibits visitations to nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

  • Postpones all elective surgeries, minor medical procedures and non-emergency dental procedures until April 7, 2020.

The amended Executive Order provides for the following measures in counties with community spread:

  • Requires restaurants in Oklahoma counties with confirmed COVID-19 cases to provide take-out and delivery options only and closes all bars in those counties.

  • Closes all businesses not identified as being within a critical infrastructure sector, such as gyms, salons, massage parlors and movie theaters, where counties have community spread effective March 25 at 11:59PM through April 15. Federal guidance on the essential critical infrastructure workforce can be found here: www.cisa.gov/publication/guidance-essential-critical-infrastructure-workforce. Additions may be added by Executive Order or memorandum.

During the press conference, the governor also announced the State of Oklahoma is working on a plan to designate hospitals in Oklahoma and Tulsa County to treat all COVID-19 patients. This will occur through attrition.

Sand Springs orders shut down of all restaurants, bars, massage parlors, gyms, etc.

The Sand Springs City Council voted Friday to to close numerous local business due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including: bars, restaurants, gyms, entertainment venues, tattoo and massage parlors, and private clubs. The proclamation will last until May 11th, 2020.

Below is the full text of the proclamation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHEREAS, additional direction to local residents and businesses will assist all in having an appropriate response to the continuing threat; and

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

WHEREAS, the spread of COVID-19 is a disaster affecting life, health, and safety of Sand Springs residents and non-residents alike; and

WHEREAS, the pandemic conditions constitute a threat to the safety and welfare of the residents of the City of Sand Springs, and create an emergency situation within the meaning of Section 683.3 of the Oklahoma Emergency Act of 2003, as amended;

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

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

SECTION TWO: All in-person gatherings for social, spiritual and recreational purposes, including but not limited to community, civic, public, leisure, faith-based, or sporting events; parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers and similar activities are strongly discouraged until the expiration of this emergency declaration. Pursuant to directives from state and federal health authorities, all gatherings of more than ten persons are strongly discouraged.

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

SECTION FOUR: Local gyms and exercise facilities, entertainment venues, tattoo and massage parlors, and private clubs are prohibited from operating or opening to patrons until the expiration of this emergency declaration.

Additionally, tattoo and massage parlors, barber shops, haircut and styling shops, and spas can operate only under the following conditions: by appointment only with no walk-in customers; appointments cannot be scheduled and held withing 15 minutes of the preceding appointment; the individual client cannot bring any other persons, including children, to be present within the facility during an appointment; and that all workstations are hereby required to have a minimum of six (6) feet of space from the adjoining workstation, to promote social distancing. Cleaning between customers shall be required.

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

SECTION SIX: All persons are encouraged to take all precautions available to assist in alleviating the spread of the virus. All businesses should comply with all CDC and health department regulations and directives. Failure to comply may result in revocation of business license.

SECTION SEVEN: This proclamation shall become effective 11:59 P.M. Friday, March 20, 2020.

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

PROCLAIMED THIS 20th DAY OF MARCH, 2020.”

Sand Springs to vote on order closing all restaurants, bars, massage parlors, gyms, etc.

Correction: We inaccurately reported that this measure had already been ordered by the Mayor due to a misunderstanding of the City’s press release. The measure will be voted on at the 2:00 p.m. meeting.

The City of Sand Springs will vote on an order to close numerous local business due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including: bars, restaurants, gyms, entertainment venues, tattoo and massage parlors, and private clubs. City Council will meet in an emergency session at 2:00 p.m. The proposed proclamation will last until May 11th, 2020.

Below is the full text of the proclamation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHEREAS, additional direction to local residents and businesses will assist all in having an appropriate response to the continuing threat; and

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

WHEREAS, the spread of COVID-19 is a disaster affecting life, health, and safety of Sand Springs residents and non-residents alike; and

WHEREAS, the pandemic conditions constitute a threat to the safety and welfare of the residents of the City of Sand Springs, and create an emergency situation within the meaning of Section 683.3 of the Oklahoma Emergency Act of 2003, as amended;

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

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

SECTION TWO: All in-person gatherings for social, spiritual and recreational purposes, including but not limited to community, civic, public, leisure, faith-based, or sporting events; parades, concerts, festivals, conventions, fundraisers and similar activities are strongly discouraged until the expiration of this emergency declaration. Pursuant to directives from state and federal health authorities, all gatherings of more than ten persons are strongly discouraged.

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

SECTION FOUR: Local gyms and exercise facilities, entertainment venues, tattoo and massage parlors, and private clubs are prohibited from operating or opening to patrons until the expiration of this emergency declaration.

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

SECTION SIX: All persons are encouraged to take all precautions available to assist in alleviating the spread of the virus.

SECTION SEVEN: This proclamation shall become effective 11:59 P.M. Friday, March 20, 2020.

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

PROCLAIMED THIS 20th DAY OF MARCH, 2020.”

Oklahoma Department of Labor extends expiration dates for occupational licensing

Pursuant to Amended Executive Order 2020-07  “All occupational licenses issued by any agency, board or Commission of the State of Oklahoma that expire during this emergency shall be extended so long as this Order is in effect.  All occupational licenses extended during this Order will expire fourteen (14) days following the withdrawal or termination of this Order.”

As the Amended Executive Order was issued on March 17, and is effective until April 16, any occupational license that would otherwise expire during this emergency shall not expire until May 1.

ODOL license applications and renewals will still be accepted and applications may be completed online at www.ok.gov/odol. Payments and accompanying documents relating to ODOL licensure should be mailed directly to the respective program at Oklahoma Department of Labor, 3017 N. Stiles Ave., #100, Oklahoma City, OK 73105