This week in Sand Springs: City Council Agenda and other news

Crosspoint VBS

Crosspoint church will be holding their vacation bible school program from 6:00pm to 9:00pm Monday, June 27th through Thursday, June 30th. The theme is "Cave Quest" and there will be games, music, science, experiments, and more. This is completely free, you must register on their website.

Fireworks permits on sale now

The City of Sand Springs has made Fireworks Discharge Permits available online for the first time.

For $20 Sand Springs residents may purchase a Class 1.4G Common Fireworks permit for use July 2nd through 4th. 

Tickets may be purchased at the City’s website.

Sertoma Fireworks show set for July 3rd

The Sertoma club's annual fireworks display will be on July 3rd, at 7:00pm in River City Park. The show will begin at dusk and is free of admission. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket to sit on and get there early so that you can get a good parking spot seat! River City Park is located at 2500 South River City Park Road Sand Springs, OK. This event is always a crowd pleaser, so invite your family and friends!

Solace Church Kids Summer Celebration

Solace Church is having their Kids Summer Celebration from Monday, June 27th to Wednesday June 29th. The fun will be from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm and will be for children from the age of 3 years old to 6th grade. This celebration will be in the theme of "Winter Extreme" and is completely free with no registration required. There will be a time of worship, snacks, skits, and more. The very last night of this event will be for the whole family and there will be pizza provided for everyone. On the last night it will start early and pizza will begin to be served at 6. For more information please call the church at 918-447-9991 during office hours. 

Snow for Senate Watch Party

 Superintendent Lloyd Snow has invited the community to join him for an election day watch party at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Tulsa Hills.

Snow for Senate will be meeting at the 7004 South Olympia Avenue, Tulsa location from 7:00 till 10:00 pm to watch the Oklahoma primary results come in. Election day is Tuesday, June 28.

City Council Meeting

The Sand Springs City Council will hold their regular monthly meeting Monday evening at the City Municipal Building. The public meeting will convene at 7:00 pm in room 203.

Mayor Mike Burdge will present a Mayoral Proclamation and plaque recognizing L. Merle Parsons for his 12 years of service to the Sand Springs Planning Commission and the citizens of Sand Springs.

Mayor Burdge will present a Mayoral Proclamation to a representative from myON supporting and proclaiming the summer of 2016 as “Summer of Reading” in the City of Sand Springs, Oklahoma.

The Council will consider approval of a contract with Dewberry Architects for design of the new Public Safety Facility. They will also consider approval of an ordinance amending existing city rules banning overnight camping in City parks. The new ordinance will allow the Parks Department to grant temporary permission to overnight campers for special events, without having to go through the City Council. The Council will consider approval of a series of capital improvements for the Sand Springs Parks.

The Council will consider de-annexation of two subdivisions within the City limits. Alan Ringle of Ringle Development, LLC requests that the city detach two properties “Oak Ridge” and “The Ridge.”

The Council will consider approval of a resolution for the appointment of Vice Mayor John Fothergill to the District Six Seat on the Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Municipal League.

The Council will consider the appointment of representatives to various local boards and organizations.

At the conclusion of the City Council meeting there will be a brief hiatus before the Municipal Authority meeting begins.

The Municipal Authority board will consider appointments to the Airport Advisory Board as well as the Sand Springs/Sapulpa Joint Board.

Tuesday is Election Day, here's your guide to the candidates

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

On Tuesday, June 28th, Oklahomans will travel to the polls for the statewide primary elections. Both the Democratic and Libertarian Parties have opened their primaries to Independent voters this year, but only registered Republicans can vote in the Republican primary.

More than 400 candidates have filed for office in Oklahoma this filing period, more than in any presidential year in recent history, according to Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax. The following is a brief summary of each candidates' qualifications. For their policy views, click on their names to be redirected to their campaign web sites.

Incumbent United States Senator James Lankford has the Republican nomination secured with no challengers, as does Democratic nominee Mike Workman. Libertarian voters will choose between Robert T Murphy and Dax Ewbank for their candidate. There are also two independent candidates: Sean Braddy and Mark Beard.

• Murphy has ran for election to US House of Representatives five times and has never garnered more than 25% of the vote.
• Ewbank previously ran in the gubernatorial Republican primary in 2014 and came in third with 9% of the vote.

Current Congressional District 1 Representative Jim Bridenstine is up for reelection and is challenged by Tom Atkinson and Evelyn L. Rogers for the Republican nomination. No Democrats filed for the race. The winner of the Republican nomination will square off against Independent David Matthew Hullum. 

• Bridenstine acquired a BS at Rice University before serving nine years as a US Navy Pilot. He worked as a Defense consultant at Wyle Laboratories while attending Cornell University and working towards an MBA. He was the Director of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum from 2008 to 2010 and was first elected to Congress in 2012. He ran unopposed in both the primary and general elections of 2014.
• Atkinson has never ran for public office prior to this election. He served in the US Air Force, was a federal prosecutor in the Department of Justice, and later a bankruptcy judge for the Northern District of Oklahoma. He founded Okie Crude Company in 1985 and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University and a law degree from Oklahoma City University.
• This marks Rogers's eleventh campaign for various State and Federal offices, she has yet to secure more than 16% of the vote. She holds a BS in healthcare management from the University of LaVerne, and an MA in practical theology from Oral Roberts University.

Sand Springs City Councilman Brian Jackson is challenging incumbent State Senator Dan Newberry for the District 37 Republican nomination, as is Paula L. Patterson. 

• Newberry was first elected in 2008 and won reelection in 2012 with 67% of the vote. He holds a diploma of Charismatic Ministry from ORU as well as a Liberal Arts BS with focus on Leadership and Organizational Management. He works as the Vice President of Real Estate Operations at TTCU: The Credit Union.
• Jackson was the youngest ever representative elected to Sand Springs City Council and is currently serving his third term. He is the Development Manager for Junior Achievement of Oklahoma and has previously served as the Sand Springs Vice-Mayor. He is a Marketing graduate from Oklahoma State University.
• This is Patterson’s first election campaign. She is an OSU graduate with an International Business Degree with Finance and Marketing Minors.

There are also three contenders for the District 37 Democratic nomination in outgoing Sand Springs Superintendent Lloyd Snow, Andrew Nutter, and Cory Gage.

• Snow has served as a Superintendent for 36 years, including 16 at Sand Springs. He is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma, a recipient of the Oklahoma Foundation Medal of Excellence in School Administration. He was inducted into the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame in 2013, was the Oklahoma Superintendent of the Year in 1995 and has twice served as the President of the Oklahoma Association of School Administrators. This is his first time running for political office.
• Nutter and Gage are also first time political candidates and neither maintains a website and have limited information available on Facebook or other platforms.

District 66 State Representative Jadine Nollan has one challenger in Emily G. DeLozier for the Republican nomination. Dianna Phillips, wife of former City Councilman Michael Phillips, has the democratic nomination locked up.

• Nollan was first elected in 2010 and won reelection in 2012 with 66% of the vote. She was unopposed in 2014. She holds a BS from OSU, is married to Sand Springs City Councilman Phil Nollan, and previously spent eleven years on the Sand Springs School Board. She was the Executive Director for Sand Springs Community Services from 2007-2010 and was the Pastor at C3 Ministries for Word of Life Fellowship from 2006-2010.
• Delozier holds a BS in International Business from the University of Tulsa.

Donald Newberry, Ron Phillips, and Mary Atkinson are running for County Court Clerk as Republicans.

• Newberry is a US Air Force veteran who served as an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Specialist. He holds an Associates in Business Administration from TCC, a Bachelors in Psychology from Liberty University, and a Masters of Jurisprudence in Indian Law from TU. He is currently the Title Research Manager in the Tulsa County Assessor’s office.
• Phillips is the Special Projects Director for the Tulsa County Clerks Office and holds a degree in Business Administration.
• Atkinson holds a BA from Drake University and is on the Board of Directors of Tulsa Camerata.

Rex Berry and Arthur Jackson are vying for the Democratic nomination for County Sheriff. 

• Berry served in the Tulsa Police Department from 1973 till 1999 and retired as a Corporal. He served as a Security Management instructor in Afghanistan, was a civilian police office in Kosovo, and an Inspector of Training Facilities in Iraq. He is a US Air Force veteran and also served in the US Army Active Reserves with the Criminal Investigations Division. He holds an Associates in Police Science.
• Jackson is a US Army veteran who has served in a supervisory position at the David L Moss Criminal Justice Center since 2001.

Vic Regalado, the incumbent from Sand Springs, is being challenged by Russell Crow and Luke Sherman for the Republican nomination for County Sheriff.

• Regalado was just elected to the position of Tulsa County Sheriff in a special election earlier this year. He previously was the lead homicide detective for the Tulsa Police in 81 cases. He supervised a Special Investigations Gang Unit and served on the Tulsa Police SWAT team for nearly a decade. He received the Medal of Valor in 2004. It’s worth mentioning that he is currently being sued by Tulsa newspaper The Frontier for failure to comply with the Oklahoma Open Records Act in regards to not releasing County jail footage. He maintains the footage does not fall under Open Records requirements.
• Sherman is a 23 year veteran of the TPD and has served as a tactical operator and assistant team commander on the Tulsa SWAT team. He is currently a sergeant leading the department’s Fugitive Warrant’s Unit and is on the U.S. Marshal’s Violent Crimes Task Force.
• Crow is an eighteen year veteran of the Tulsa Sheriff’s Office and Tulsa Police Department. He also owns a private investigation firm in Tulsa.

Michael Willis and Nancy Rothman are running for the County Clerk nomination from the Republican party.

• Willis holds a BA in Public Affairs and Administration from OU and is working towards a Masters of Public Administration. He currently serves as the Chief Deputy County Commissioner and Public Information Office and is a member of the TPD Reserve.
• Rothman serves as the Chief Deputy in the County Clerk’s Office, the President of the Board of Directors for “Neighbor for Neighbor” in Tulsa, and is a Board Member of the Tulsa County Juvenile Justice Trust Authority.

Deanna Vincent is challenging Karen Keith for the Democratic nomination for County Commissioner District No. 2.

• Keith has been the County Commissioner since 2008 and serves on various local boards and organizations. She was the President of the Rotary Club of Tulsa and serves on the Oklahoma Historical Society board of directors. She is a graduate of OSU, served as a KJRH anchor and executive producer of Oklahoma Living.
• Vincent does not appear to maintain a website, facebook page, or presence on any web forum that we could find.

Jonathan Grable and Sand Springs’s Josh R. Turley are running for the Republican nomination.

• Grable is the CEO of a local real estate management company and previously worked for Arrow Trucking Company as the Truck Assignment Coordinator. He’s served in the Oklahoma State Senate for the past six years and is an Eagle Scout.
• Turley is a 24-year veteran of the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office and is the founder of the Risk Management program for the TCSO.

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This article was originally published in the June 26, 2016 Sandite Pride News Weekly Digital Magainze. Sandite Pride News does not endorse political candidates and strives to provide non-partisan unbiased reporting of elections. Any perceived slant towards an individual is entirely unintentional.

38th Oklahoma Freewheel bicycle tour stops in Sand Springs

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By: Morgan Miller and Virgil Noah

This year marks the 38th consecutive year of the Oklahoma Freewheel, and for the first time in its history it made a stop in Sand Springs. Freewheel is a week-long bicycle tour that stretches from the Red River to just across the Kansas state line. With each town they go through, the bicyclists are greeted with hospitality unique to the town that they are visiting. For Sand Springs, that included giving the cyclists full use of the Case Community Center, free bar-b-cue from the Holy Smokers, and Harper’s Hut Shaved Ice and Java.

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The Church That Matters Holy Smokers, Brent Higgins and Thomas Mercado, were set up alongside the cyclists’ campsite. The pair compete in competitions, and have won the people’s choice award at Chillin’ and Grillin’ competition for the past 5 years.  Brent Higgins and Thomas Mercado brought enough food to this event to feed 300 people and were giving it away completely free to the participants of the bike tour. Harper’s Hut Shaved Ice and Java was set up adjacent to the Holy Smokers and had to shut down momentarily to replenish their supplies after completely selling out of product.

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A group of massage therapists travels with the cyclists on the tour. Each night the group set up their tents to offer some relief for the cyclists’ sore muscles. One of those therapists is Dwight Divelbiss who says that, “It’s just fun to travel and visit the small towns and see Oklahoma.” He has been practicing massage therapy part-time for 20 years, and of those 20 years has traveled with 15 Freewheels. Dwight doesn’t live in Sand Springs but his parents reside in town. Mary Lou Divelbiss, Dwight’s mother, was the branch manager of the Charles Page Public Library before retiring.

Jerri Hines from Jay, Oklahoma is on her 12th Freewheel tour. She got started bicycling as a kid with her parents, and was exposed to the Oklahoma Freewheel when it would go through her town. She had gone through Sand Springs but had never stopped to take it all in. When asked what her favorite thing about the town was, she said that she loved seeing the old buildings and the Holy Smokers bar-b-cue.

The cyclists arrived in Sand Springs intermittently throughout Wednesday evening and departed early Thursday morning at 5:00 am. They will spend Thursday night in Claremore.

First Annual Taste of Sand Springs boasts delicious dining experience

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The first annual Taste of Sand Springs was a success Thursday evening at the Charles Page High School cafeteria. The Chamber of Commerce event served as a fundraiser for the organization Junior Achievement. 

The dining started off with some delicious sliders from Osage Casino. Napoli's Italian Restaurant provided pasta. Reasor's deli had broccoli salad and deviled egg potato salad. Rib Crib served colossal portions of baked beans and mac and cheese with bacon. Charlie's Chicken had hearty portions of green beans and broccoli grape salad. Gander Mountain Vineyard provided open-faced roast beef sandwiches and mushroom casserole with key lime cheesecake for dessert. 

Other sweet options included Harper's Hut Shaved Ice, Sandlot Snoballs and brownies from Meadowlake Ranch. Livi Lee's donuts had a delicious treat called "Strawberry Fields," consisting of a glazed cake donut with strawberries and whipped cream. Also on hand were sixth-graders Taylor Blackwell and Sydnee Porter selling lemonade to raise money for the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

Sand Springs City Councilman Brian Jackson was the spokesman for the evening and entertained the customers with periodic giveaways including car detailing certificates, Starbucks packages, Crescent Cafe gift cards and more. Jackson serves as the Development Manager at Junior Achievement of Eastern Oklahoma and is currently running for the Senate Seat 37.

Money raised from the event will benefit more than ten CPHS students participating in the Junior Achievement life skills programs.

“Just a short 15 years ago, I was a junior at CPHS and I had the fortune to be inspired by my community classroom volunteer with Junior Achievement.  That classroom time gave me direction to live out my American Dream alongside my wife and daughter,” said Jackson.

Jake Dillon Band and Dylan Whitney Band to perform at Bixby craft festival

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Jake Dillon Band appeared on a segment of Good Morning Tulsa Monday morning and performed their newest single "Going Crazy." The band was promoting a Bixby event at Washington Irving Park this upcoming weekend.

The Jake Dillon Band is made up of Charles Page High School Class of 2011 graduate Jake "Dillon" Tankersley along with Colton Joe on lead guitar, Eric Cope on bass, and Casey Highfill on drums. Tankersley recently appeared on the final season of American Idol in January and performed for thousands in Hollywood. 

Vintage Down South is a craft show event that will feature several antique and craft vendors as well as Tulsa food trucks and an impressive lineup of local musicians. The Jake Dillon Band will be performing Friday night from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Also performing at the event is Dylan Whitney, a CPHS Class of 2015 graduate, with his band. Whitney performs alongside vocalist Christi King, bass guitarist Scott Craig, guitarist Michael McClure, and drummer Randy Reese. The Dylan Whitney band has been making waves in the local blues scene with recent performances at the Chillin 'n' Grillin Festival in Sand Springs, the Exit 56 Blues Fest in Tennessee, Tulsa Mayfest, and more. The band will be performing the Vintage Down South event Saturday from 1:00 to 6:00 pm, and will also be performing the free 5th Annual Summertime Blues Showcase at the Blues Society of Tulsa Friday night at 9:15.

Several other musicians will be performing at the Vintage Down South event:

Bixby's Cole Lynch Band will be opening the event up with a set from 3:00 to 5:00 pm Friday, followed by the Jake Dillon Band from 6:00 to 8:00. 

Saturday will kick off with Bandelier, a Tulsa band featuring Jessey Aycock, Chris Combs, Eric Noble, and Erin O'Dowd from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. From there Chelsea Gann, a season 10 contestant on The Voice, will take the stage. Gann made it to episode seven and was eliminated in the "battle rounds." She also performed alongside Whitney at the Chillin 'n' Grillin Festival. She will be performing intermittently between 1:00 and 6:00 pm Saturday. Kyle and Jake Lowrey of the band 2 Steps Back will be playing Saturday with Gann, Lynch and Whitney all sharing the 1:00 to 6:00 pm slot in a kind of five-man-jam. 

Upcoming concerts and events in the Tulsa area

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This story was originally published in the Sandite Pride News Weekly Sunday edition.

Sand Springs Board of Education authorizes litigation against State

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Board of Education held their regular monthly meeting and used the opportunity to present a series of awards and recognitions, approve the hiring of new staff, and discuss district finances. 

Bob Anderson was awarded the Sandite Spirit Award and Coins of Excellence were presented to retiring Superintendent Lloyd Snow, retiring Chief Financial Operator Gary Watts, retiring Pratt Principal Jim Roberts, retiring Athletic Director Ed Garrett, retiring Encumbrance Clerk Sally Gramm, Board Clerk Kim Clenney, and District Artchitect Jeanie Kvach.

The Board approved the employment of six new employees for the upcoming school year. Clyde Boyd Middle School will be adding Rebekah Anderson as a Seventh Grade Writing Teacher. Charles Page High School will get five new employees: Kristen Anderson, Special Ed Teacher; Matthew Miller, World History Teacher; Kimberly Mutch, Advanced Math Teacher; Lindsay Ross, Counselor; Matt Solomon, Art Teacher. 

The school board unanimously approved a motion to authorize funding of no more than $5,000 for the purpose of joining ongoing litigation before the Oklahoma Supreme Court against the State Department of Education and the Oklahoma Tax Commission concerning past allocations of state aid payments. The lawsuit, which was filed in March, includes about fifty school districts seeking reparations for twenty-two years of misappropriation of commercial and agricultural property taxes. The defense maintains that despite their acknowledgement and correction of the error in 2014, they should not be made to collect reparations from the schools that benefited due to the unreliability of data predating 2004 due to the fact that all records used in the calculation of state aid are disposed of after twelve years. Furthermore, they cite a three-year statute of limitations on similar cases. The defense issued a response to the petitioners' claims on June 1st, pointing out "the dire budget situations already facing the schools that will be negatively impacted."

The district is already engaged in litigation against the Oklahoma Tax Commission for allegedly misappropriating funds associated with motor vehicle collections authorized by the passage of HB2244 by the 55th Legislature. The plaintiff is not seeking reparations from the school districts that benefited from the alleged error, but seeks for the state aid formula to be corrected going forward. The board initially went straight to the State Supreme Court in the hopes of enacting a decision before June 30th. The Supreme Court denied the petition in April, however, meaning the suit will have to go through the district courts first. The district claims a loss of more than $200,000 thus far and expects that amount to double by the time a decision is reached. 

The proposed budget for 2016-2017 was also unanimously approved during the board meeting. Revenue is expected to decline by $3,761,380 from the last fiscal year. Operating expenses have been slashed by $3,094,000, which Superintendent Snow says will result in fifty-one fewer employees across the school district.

City Councilman Brian Jackson sounds off on Senator Dan Newberry

Incumbent Senator Dan Newberry faced harsh words from City Councilman Brian Jackson at a Chamber of Commerce forum Monday afternoon.

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce hosted an open forum Monday for Senate seat 37 candidates. All seven candidates were invited, five attended, but the awkward drama between three of them stole the show. Outgoing Sand Springs Superintendent Lloyd Snow is running for the democratic nomination for the seat, and he's found an unusual ally from the other side of the political spectrum. 

Sand Springs City Councilman Brian Jackson is a Republican, but doesn't hesitate to endorse Snow as the best alternative to incumbent Dan Newberry, should Newberry win the Republican nomination. Jackson has even gone so far as to go canvassing with Superintendent Snow. 

Jackson, whose wife is a third-grade teacher, makes it clear that should he be defeated in the Republican primary on June 28th, his campaign won't end there.

"I believe public education is the cornerstone to our democracy, and should be guarded from politicians that want to inflict harm. I do not support any measure such as vouchers that would divert or direct tax dollars away from public education," said Jackson, an obvious jab at Newberry who failed to publicly oppose SB609, which would have redirected funds from public education to private schools. The high-profile bill received major public backlash from the education community before dying in committee. Many District 37 residents expressed frustration that Newberry failed to reply to any emails or phone calls regarding the bill, and never publicly declared his position, should it have been heard on the Senate floor.

Outgoing Superintendent Lloyd Snow will likely carry a large backing from Sand Springs residents with ties to education, but his biggest obstacle to election will be proving his qualifications in non-education fields. 

"Many politicians, including one in this room, will stand behind false over-inflated words that teachers should receive a medal for the work they do. This is merely smoke and mirrors and does not reflect a genuine thought." Jackson also claimed to have overheard Newberry rudely dismiss a Sand Springs educator's concerns on a past trip to the Capitol. "This disrespectful action will not be tolerated and I am honored to not be alone in this race to unseat the disrespectful actions of this politician." 

Newberry has faced a lot of backlash from the education community. Political Action Committee "Oklahomans for Public Education" rated the Senator as "Dangerous" and "Not Supportive of Public Ed" in their most recent list of 2016 candidates. Jackson and Snow, meanwhile, were endorsed as "Pro-Public Education." 

Newberry's not without some high profile supporters, however. Victory Christian Center Pastor Sharon Daugherty, Sand Springs City Councilman Jim Spoon, and former Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce President Mary Eubanks have all starred in promotional videos endorsing the Newberry campaign. Sand Springs Vice-Mayor John Fothergill has also expressed his support via Facebook. 

In defense of Newberry's education record, he did coauthor HB3218 to eliminate End of Instruction Exams, but it was far from a divisive bill. Twenty-seven other senators coauthored on the bill, as did forty-seven house representatives. The legislation cleared the House 95 to 1 and the Senate 45 to 1.

While Newberry faces heavy criticism from the education community, Snow and Jackson face criticism from just about everyone else. Supporters of Newberry have pointed out that while Education is crucial, it is not the only pressing matter for a Senator to deal with. Newberry's challengers have been accused of inadequately addressing the numerous duties a Senator must perform.

"Our state education system, along with other core areas of state government, including transportation, infrastructure, corrections, and mental health, is grossly and recklessly underfunded," said Jackson. That was all he said about the issues before continuing on in his pro-education spiel. 

Superintendent Snow fared about the same when it came to diversifying his platform. "It breaks my heart that we're going to have fifty-one fewer employees in Sand Springs schools next year." Snow failed to touch on anything other than education in his speech.

The Democratic challenger does have his standpoints on some key issues listed on his website. He promises to fix income inequality between equally qualified men and women working the same job. He touches on creating quality jobs and diversifying the state economy, supporting police and firemen, and giving individuals more control over their personal healthcare. Jackson, meanwhile, has no political ideology listed anywhere on his Facebook page or website, except for a brief mention that "illegal aliens-if they want to live here, they need to go through the proper procedures for citizenship." 

"It's not personal with me, it's performance," said Snow. "This past legislature--and I've got good friends there, it's not personal--it was a side-step. It wasn't a step up. Band-aid, band-aid, band-aid. Folks, this budget's gonna fail."

"It's not my ambition and it never was. But I feel an obligation...I may not tell you what you want to hear, but I will always give you 100% every day."

Tulsa County Library Summer Reading Program encourages reading at all ages

By: Virgil Noah, Marketing Director

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Word of Life Free Community Carnival draws record crowds

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Word of Life Church in Sand Springs hosted their fourth annual free community carnival Saturday afternoon to huge success. Approximately 5000 people turned out for the event, the largest turnout since it began, to enjoy free food, rides, and giveaways.

Word of Life is a non-denominational congregation founded in 1981 by the late David Emigh, and is currently pastored by Chad and Sarah Stewart who took the reigns in September of 2011.

In 2013 the Church held its first annual Free Community Carnival, a dream that Pastor Chad Stewart had been working towards since he first arrived at the church. For the first three years, the event was held at the end of summer, shortly before the fall school session began. The church would give away thousands of backpacks full of school supplies and a team of professional stylists would offer free "Back-to-School" haircuts for kids. 

In 2016 the ride company that the church had been using announced it was in the process of liquidating its equipment, leaving the church searching for a replacement. After locating the Oklahoma-based Sam's Amusements, the church had to move the event to Memorial Day weekend due to the ride company's packed schedule. Instead of looking at the change as an inconvenience, the church is counting it as a blessing and an opportunity to improve the experience for everyone.

This year's Carnival featured more than half a dozen rides of varying sizes and had dozens of games and other activities, as well as free popcorn, hotdogs, lemonade, and shaved ice from local company Sandlot Snoballs.

On Sunday morning the church gave away ten checks of $500 each to guests at their services. Each of the recipients were noticeably touched by the gift. One first service recipient had lost a daughter in 2010 and was still unable to afford a headstone. A second service recipient had just lost her job two weeks prior. Other winners included a single mother of two trying to return to college, and an elderly couple who was barely making ends meet while living on social security.

In other news, the church announced the hiring of a new children's pastor last Sunday in Oral Roberts University graduate Alexis Muscarella.

The church holds two services each Sunday at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. and is located at 1402 North 81st West Avenue. Wednesday youth services are held at the Forward Youth Building at 619 East 10th Street at 7:00 pm under youth pastor Chad Ketcher. 

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This story was originally published in the Sandite Pride News Weekly Sunday edition.

Word of Life Church hosts FREE Community Carnival Memorial Day Weekend

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sand Springs City Council adopts series of goals for economic growth

The Sand Springs City Council unanimously approved Resolution CC-1641 Monday evening at their bi-weekly meeting at the City Municipal Building. The resolution identifies a series of ambitious goals and objectives compiled by City Planner Brad Bates.

1. "The City of Sand Springs will strive to promote local commerce, trade, and commodities by strengthening working relationships with the local/regional entities, existing businesses and institutions.
   1. Maintain a list of Top 10 employers and actively engage them to evaluate workforce objectives and collaboration with other local businesses.
   2. Support local businesses through shopping and dining campaigns/programs, including but not limited to the purchase with a purpose campaign.
   3. Promote shop local campaigns and events
   4. Provide links to local hospitality, dining and retail establishments on a Sand Springs website.
   5. Pursue alternative methods of internet driven traffic through search engine providers and promote usage of local businesses.
   6. Produce marketing material for distribution at trade shows and conventions.
   7. Expand the local business manager's quarterly meeting with City officials to discuss concerns, achievements and future suggestions for how the City can help improve local business success.
   8. Collaborate with schools and non-profit organizations on workforce development to create a sustainable workforce in Sand Springs
   9. Create a one page handout on "What shopping local means to you!" Have facts on how much taxable sales to fund one police officer. So if it's $40,000 average for a police officer that requires $2,000,000 in taxable sales of .02 sales tax that goes to the general fund.
2. Aggressively pursue new local, regional, or national restaurant and retail businesses. 
   1. Create an inventory of City and privately owned properties that will be made available to interested parties.
   2. Actively work to broker/initiate development deals and transactions.
   3. Have strong code enforcement of existing properties by strengthening property management codes and regulations.
   4. Attend regional and national trade shows, expos, and conventions promoting the City of Sand Springs.
   5. Update the City's incentives policy to direct the long-term process of economic development.
   6. Explore and employ non-traditional incentive methods where appropriate, with specific attention to fostering small businesses and entrepreneurship. 
   7. Expand and grow the City's population through development of new single-family, multi-family, and elderly housing, in addition to actively encouraging annexation of property.
   8. Continue to monitor and evaluate the City's permit fees and development process to stay competitive with other Tulsa Metro communities.
   9. Have a team ready of citizen ambassadors to call upon to meet with prospects.
3. Identify some projects that will beautify Sand Springs and assist with marketing and economic development and complete those projects.
   1. Develop a highway corridor improvement plan or concept for implementation as part of the Vision 2025 approved project and funding.
   2. Create a timeline for corridor improvements and being implementation accordingly.
   3. Identify beautification projects that serve a multipurpose through enhancing properties or businesses that simultaneously improve the public image.
   4. Engage local civic organizations, schools, and neighborhood associations to organize cleanup efforts or beautification projects.
   5. Continue renovation and construction projects for city owed properties with functionality and aesthetics being considered in design.
   6. Review city ordinances on landscape requirements for development with possible modifications of requirements strengthening and encouraging property beautification.
   7. Have work days more often and announced early enough that people can plan ahead.
4. Evaluate and consider the acquisition of real estate for future development purposes.
   1. Determine the need and identify areas for property acquisition to help drive development transactions.
   2. Formalize a process for which property can be bought by the City in a timely and efficient manner.
   3. Develop a criteria for real estate purchasing as a form of a development incentive.
   4. Initiate land use workshops with staff to engage primary land owners in goal accomplishment.
5. Encourage and engage Subdivision and Multi-Family Developers/Developments.
   1. Work with developers to identify properties that are available for development.
   2. Continue to monitor and evaluate the City's permit fees and development process to stay competitive with other Tulsa Metro cities.
   3. Expedite processes when possible to speed up the overall development time.
   4. Evaluate infrastructure development as an incentive when deemed appropriate and beneficial.
   5. Attend Tulsa Home Builders Association meetings and gatherings to promote Sand Springs as a community.
   6. Contact and meet with Multi-Family Developers to inform them about Sand Springs and promote the need for additional housing options within the community.
   7. Make incentive policy options available for subdivision and multi-family developments.
6. Develop an Economic Development website resource hub and strive to educate and advance the objective of all involved with the City to be involved in assisting with economic development as possible. 
   1. Set a public launch date of the seesandsprings.com website and begin to promote the site through social media platforms. 
   2. Create handout materials (cards, flyers, etc) that can be distributed to businesses, developers, brokers, and citizens promoting seesandsprings.com
   3. Create and maintain an inventory of available city owned properties for development
   4. Provide links to active real estate professionals/organizations listings in the area.
   5. Provide Demographic and Market Profile information for easy review and utilization, updated annually. 
   6. Provide Economic Development Incentive information, policies, and guidelines once developed and implemented.
   7. Provide links to zoning/building regulations, building permit forms and guidelines, engineering design criteria, and the Sand Springs Comprehensive Plan.
   8. Provide digital links to zoning and comprehensive plan land use maps.
   9. Provide links to State of Oklahoma Business Resources (ie: Small Business Incentive, Department of Commerce, etc)
7. Sand Springs will have a strong independent local economy that compliments the surrounding region but is not dependent on it.
   1. Collaborate with local and regional partners regarding economic development opportunities.
   2. Encourage the development of offices, professional services, and industry in appropriate locations within the City. 
   3. Continue to support and promote the downtown commercial area.
   4. Develop a new economic development grant program for downtown development.
   5. Promote housing rehabilitation, revitalization and infrastructure improvements within neighborhoods in need.
   6. Increase retail/shopping and dining availability within Sand Springs.
   7. We should encourage and find sights that may be appealing to both developers and citizens."

Patty Dixon sworn into Sand Springs City Council and other Council news

City Municipal Judge Mike King swears in Councilwoman Patty Dixon for a three-year term.

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Councilwoman Patty Dixon was sworn into office at the Sand Springs City Council meeting Monday night, taking over the Ward 2 seat from Dean Nichols after running unopposed. Nichols served three terms after joining the Council in 2007 and asked Dixon to file for his seat after deciding not to pursue a fourth term last December.

Dixon had previously served on the Council for two terms from 1990-1996 and encouraged Mayor Mike Burdge to run for her seat when she stepped down twenty years ago. Dixon has an extensive resume including time served with the Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board, Museum Association, HEAL committee, Sertoma Club, Oklahoma Municipal League, and First Christian Church, and is a retired 26-year employee of the Tulsa County Parks Department. She has also served as the Executive Director for the Oklahoma Recreation and Parks Society. Along with her husband, Tim, Patty owns Dixon Auto Glass in Sand Springs.

In other news:

• Councilman Phil Nollan was nominated and unanimously approved as the Council representative to the Parks Advisory Board and Daniel Comer was nominated by Councilwoman Dixon to continue his term and unanimously approved.
• Precision Lawn was unanimously approved to take over citywide mowing services beginning in July. 
• The Council unanimously approved Resolution CC-1641 adopting "a series of goals and objectives related to economic development for the City."
• On recommendation from the Parks Advisory Board, the Council unanimously approved an adjustment to the existing park shelter rental rate from $25/half day to $40 per two-hour block reservation for special events. Citizens are not required to pay a reservation fee to utilize the shelters, but it does guarantee the spot on days with high demand.

Salvation Army banquet raises $21,000 for new playground

Montie Box is honored by the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club with an award.

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club of Sand Springs honored longtime Sand Springs entrepreneur and philanthropist Montie Box with a banquet at Hillspring Church Tuesday night. The event also served as a fundraiser for new playground equipment for the Salvation Army facility and succeeded in raising over $21,000.

Stan Clark, founder and owner of Eskimo Joe's, was the keynote speaker, and several other community leaders also spoke at the Army of Stars Banquet. 

Eskimo Joe's founder Stan Clark was the keynote speaker at the Army of Stars Banquet.

Advisory Council Chairman Bob Anderson introduced the man of honor and read off his seemingly never-ending list of accomplishments. Box was then presented proclamations from the City of Sand Springs and the State of Oklahoma from Mayor Mike Burdge and Councilman Phil Nollan, respectively. Nollan presented the State proclamation on behalf of his wife, District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan, who was away at the Capitol. Senator Dan Newberry also gave an address honoring Box. 

Attendance at the event was $40 a chair and had more than 100 in attendance. The event concluded with a silent auction that generated more than $4,000 in addition to donations taken earlier in the night. 

Morgan's Relax Packs are handcrafted customizable heat/cold packs designed for maximum relief at affordable pricing.

Montie Box is a long-time Sand Springs resident with more than half a century of real estate experience. He founded Montie Box Co. in 1958 after graduating from Oklahoma A&M, now Oklahoma State University. He served in the army during the Korean Conflict with the rank of First Lieutenant. 

In 1973 he was named Oklahoma Realtor of the Year. In 1988 he was awarded the Sand Springs Education Association Friend of Education recognition. He was a founding member of the Sand Springs Education Foundation in 1990. In 1992 he was given the honor of life membership on the Tulsa Boys' Home Board of Directors as well as the SS Education Foundation. That same year he was inducted into the Sand Springs Education Hall of Fame. In 1995 he was named Sand Springs Hometown Hero. In 1998 he received the Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of Realtors, which is considered to be the highest honor a realtor can receive and he is a member of the NAR Hall of Fame.

Senator Dan Newberry addresses the crowd and honors Montie Box. Newberry is currently running for reelection against City Councilman Brian Jackson.

He served as a regent for Tulsa Community College from 1995-2006 and was the Chairman from 1996-1997. In 2009 he received the Vision in Education Award from TCC. 

His involvement with the Salvation Army goes back 61 years. He was instrumental in getting the new facility built in 1978 at its current location in Sand Springs. He is a life member of the Sand Springs Advisory Council, which is a prestigious appointment only available to members with a minimum of 15 years of outstanding service. He is a former coach and manager of Tulsa and Sand Springs Pee Wee Wrestling and he has served as Ringmaster at the Tulsa State Fair Livestock Auction. 

Lieutenant David Brittle also announced that Box had been confirmed as the 2016 recipient of the prestigious William Booth Award, which is one of the highest honors given by the Salvation Army. He will receive that award in the near future.

CPHS and Page Academy graduate 412 in Class of 2016; Snow receives honorary diploma

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Every student and every class to pass through the halls of Charles Page is special in its own way. But the Class of 2016 has earned a special place in in the annals of Sandite history. CPHS Principal Stan Trout recognized these past few years as an "athletics and fine arts Renaissance." 

Indeed, this class has seen our first football playoff victory since they were toddlers. They led us to State Championship appearances in football, wrestling, softball, tennis, golf, debate, and more. Seniors Cameron Meeker and Emma Bedokis became the first debate semifinalists in school history and fourteen Sandites have put pen to paper in committing to play collegiate sports.

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412 students graduated from CPHS and Page Academy Saturday evening at the Oral Roberts University Mabee Center. Among them were 74 honor grads, having attained 4.0 GPAs over all four years of high school, and 34 earned certificates of distinction.

Student Council President Courtney Langley led the packed stadium in the Pledge of Allegiance and Christina Brittle amazed the crowd with her performance of the National Anthem. The CPHS band set the tone throughout the evening and Bryn Lewis and National Merit Scholar and Academic All State Scholar Ethan Veenker gave touching speeches to their peers. 

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The ceremony took a comical turn as Principal Trout contended that outgoing Superintendent of Schools Lloyd Snow could not be considered "the perfect Sandite" without having graduated from Sand Springs. Snow was then walked through a series of auditory "End of Instruction Exams." 

Many jokes were made, such as, "What do you get when you have a Sandite and take away nine football victories?..A Chieftain," and "Besides football and basketball, what new OSSAA sport did the Sandites and Booker T Washington compete in?" The answer of "Twitter" was met with thunderous laughter. Principal Trout has never shied away from controversial jokes at graduation, something that earns him extra love and respect from his students. 

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After taking his "EOIs" Snow was required to lead the crowd in one last "V-I-C-T-O-R-Y" cheer and awarded an honorary CPHS diploma. But the laughter was soon replaced with tearful joy as the beloved Superintendent gave his final graduation speech, a heartwarming address in which he recognized the Class of 2016 as his class. 

After remarks from Board of Education President Mike Mullins came the presentation of diplomas and perhaps the most famous Sand Springs tradition of all, a final message from Frank Cooper. The annual reading of "Love You Forever" by Robert N. Munsch. The children's bedtime story has taken a special place in the hearts of the Sand Springs community after generations of young Sandites have sat through the tearful recital by Cooper. 

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The story is altered, and filled with the names of the Class of 2016, as Cooper adds his own touches and flares of inspiration to make the story unique to each class each year, but each year features the same iconic chorus;

"I'll love you forever,
I'll like you for always,
As long as I'm living
my babies you'll be."

Finally, the Senior Quartet led the crowd in the Alma Mater and Senior Class President Erin Kennedy gave the closing speech. The students were dismissed to their parents and, despite two more weeks of school, to the world. 

Montie Box honored at Salvation Army banquet

Montie Box is honored by the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club with an award.

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club of Sand Springs honored longtime Sand Springs entrepreneur and philanthropist Montie Box with a banquet at Hillspring Church Tuesday night. The event also served as a fundraiser for new playground equipment for the Salvation Army facility. 

Stan Clark, founder and owner of Eskimo Joe's, was the keynote speaker, and several other community leaders also spoke at the Army of Stars Banquet. 

Eskimo Joe's founder Stan Clark was the keynote speaker at the Army of Stars Banquet.

Advisory Council Chairman Bob Anderson introduced the man of honor and read off his seemingly never-ending list of accomplishments. Box was then presented proclamations from the City of Sand Springs and the State of Oklahoma from Mayor Mike Burdge and Councilman Phil Nollan, respectively. Nollan presented the State proclamation on behalf of his wife, District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan, who was away at the Capitol. Senator Dan Newberry also gave an address honoring Box. 

Attendance at the event was $40 a chair and had more than 100 in attendance. The event concluded with a silent auction that generated more than $4,000 in addition to donations taken earlier in the night. 

Morgan's Relax Packs are handcrafted customizable heat/cold packs designed for maximum relief at affordable pricing.

Montie Box is a long-time Sand Springs resident with more than half a century of real estate experience. He founded Montie Box Co. in 1958 after graduating from Oklahoma A&M, now Oklahoma State University. He served in the army during the Korean Conflict with the rank of First Lieutenant. 

In 1973 he was named Oklahoma Realtor of the Year. In 1988 he was awarded the Sand Springs Education Association Friend of Education recognition. He was a founding member of the Sand Springs Education Foundation in 1990. In 1992 he was given the honor of life membership on the Tulsa Boys' Home Board of Directors as well as the SS Education Foundation. That same year he was inducted into the Sand Springs Education Hall of Fame. In 1995 he was named Sand Springs Hometown Hero. In 1998 he received the Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of Realtors, which is considered to be the highest honor a realtor can receive and he is a member of the NAR Hall of Fame.

Senator Dan Newberry addresses the crowd and honors Montie Box. Newberry is currently running for reelection against outgoing Superintendent Lloyd Snow.

He served as a regent for Tulsa Community College from 1995-2006 and was the Chairman from 1996-1997. In 2009 he received the Vision in Education Award from TCC. 

His involvement with the Salvation Army goes back 61 years. He was instrumental in getting the new facility built in 1978 at its current location in Sand Springs. He is a life member of the Sand Springs Advisory Council, which is a prestigious appointment only available to members with a minimum of 15 years of outstanding service. He is a former coach and manager of Tulsa and Sand Springs Pee Wee Wrestling and he has served as Ringmaster at the Tulsa State Fair Livestock Auction. 

Lieutenant David Brittle also announced that Box had been confirmed as the 2016 recipient of the prestigious William Booth Award, which is one of the highest honors given by the Salvation Army. He will receive that award in the near future.

Phil Nollan sworn into City Council

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Phil Nollan was sworn into office at the Sand Springs City Council meeting Monday evening. Nollan has been a member of the Parks Advisory Board for five years and defeated incumbent councilman Michael Phillips in the Super Tuesday March 2nd election.

Nollan is a nationally certified Project Management professional and Oklahoma State University graduate. He holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from OSU and an executive master of business administration certificate from the University of Tulsa. 

Nollan's wife, Jadine Nollan, is currently serving District 66 in the House of Representatives. 

In other news, the Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 16-39, a resolution to request Programming of Tulsa Urbanized Area Transportation Funds for the South Highway 97 Connector Trail/Side Path Project. Infrastructure Planning Administrator Vernon Smith presented the proposal, which Vice-Mayor John Fothergill recognized as "the last link in the chain" to connect the current Sand Springs trail system to the new Highway 97 pedestrian crossing.

Outgoing Superintendent Lloyd Snow, who is currently challenging incumbent State Senator Dan Newberry, was recognized with a proclamation by Mayor Mike Burdge for his many accomplishments and lifetime dedication to the people of Oklahoma, especially in the field of education.

The John M. Hess Outstanding Citizenship Award was presented to Mary Sue Overbey by Mayor Burdge, who recognized her as one of the most distinguished and deserving recipients in the history of the award. 

Mayor Burdge was nominated to continue serving as Mayor for a concurrent one-year term and elected by a 5-1 vote with Councilman Brian Jackson ​being the lone naysayer. 

Councilman Jackson nominated Councilman Beau Wilson for the position of Vice-Mayor, who respectfully declined the nomination. Mayor Burdge nominated current Vice-Mayor Fothergill, who was elected 5-1, with the lone nay coming from Councilman Jackson. ​

Councilman Jackson is also currently ​running against Superintendent Snow for Senator Newberry's position. 

Holy Smokers win fifth-straight at Chillin & Grillin, Harper's Hut gives away 400+ snow cones

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce put on their annual Chillin' and Grillin' Festival this past weekend, and if you didn't make it then you sure missed out!

Harper's Hut Shaved Ice & Java gave out more than 400 free snow cones throughout the event, including signature favorites such as Harry Potter Butterbeer and Volcano. 

Jambo Pits was named Grand Champion of the event by the Kansas City Barbecue Society with Okie Q BBQ coming in as Reserve Champion.

Jambo Pits took first place in brisket, Moving the Chains BBQ took first in pork, Buffalo's BBQ took first in pork ribs, and Fatt Mikes took first place in chicken.

Church That Matters' Holy Smokers won their fifth consecutive People's Choice Award. Light My Fire BBQ won the "Anything But" competition.

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This year included a baking competition with two categories and two division. Katie Gonzales won the Student division in Cookies. Jacie Taber and Cameron Clemons won the Student Pies category. Andrea Brice won Adult Cookies and Debra Bunch won Adult Pies. 

Charles Page High School graduate and blues musician Dylan Whitney was the entertainment for the evening, along with the Charles Sisters.

Senator Dan Newberry was on the scene to present awards and publicize his upcoming re-election campaign. Sand Springs's own Josh Turley was also campaigning at the event. Turley is running for the position of County Commissioner. 

The full Sandite Pride gallery from the event is now available at https://sanditepride.smugmug.com/Community-Events/2016-Chillin-and-Grillin/

Sandite of the Week: Josh Eddington

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By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

This week has been the toughest in our history to decide on a single Sandite of the Week. From softball and baseball players hitting multiple home runs in a single game, to pitching shutouts, to golf tournament champions, outstanding debate performances, and more, we had more nominees than ever before. That said, after hard and careful consideration, we decided on Charles Page High School student Joshua Eddington as our Sandite of the Week for his incredible performance as Man in Chair in the High School production of "The Drowsy Chaperone."

I have been to many CPHS productions over the years, and this was undoubtedly the best I've ever seen. From the set design to the choreography, the acting to the singing, the costumes and makeup and everything in between; I wouldn't expect better from any school in the state, regardless of funding and resources. The whole cast and crew was spectacular, but Eddington set the tone for the entire event.

The story is a parody of American musical comedy of the 1920s, as told by the nameless narrator, the Man in Chair. Eddington was inseparable from his role, delivering the mousy bitterness of the lonely theater lover perfectly. The man seeks comfort in an old record of "The Drowsy Chaperone," a fictitious play that tells of actress Janet Van De Graff (portrayed by Lizzi Tate) preparing to be married and retire from the theater.

Her decision is met with much opposition by producer Feldzeig (Cameron Mays), who is being threatened by gangsters whose boss invested heavily in "Feldzeig's Follies," the production which De Graff is a part of. Feldzeig undergoes an effort to get the wedding called off and enlists the self-proclaimed famous Latin lover Adolpho (Blake Simpson) to seduce the bride. Instead, he mistakenly seduces the Chaperone (Zoey Hughes) and all sorts of shenanigans break loose. 

Photos from the event are available at https://sanditepride.smugmug.com/Community-Events/4516-The-Drowsy-Chaperone/

27th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair is this Saturday, April 16th

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Photo by: Morgan Miller

Sand Springs, OK- The City of Sand Springs hopes you will join us on Saturday, April 16th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the 27th annual event. More than 100 vendors will be on site selling herbs, perennials, natives and heirloom plants, along with herbal products, gardening supplies, outdoor décor and so much more.

“Each year this event grows,” says Kasey St. John, Marketing Manager for the City of Sand Springs. “What started as a downtown street sale now has 105 vendors offering a variety of local and unique products.”

This year’s festival features many of the same vendors that keep visitors coming back but also includes several additional areas:

Kid Zone

Sponsored by The Church That Matters, the Kid’s Zone features interactive and educational activities that are fun for the whole family plus, a special entertainment stage with local performances by Miss Tirita’s dance students. All free of charge!

Basil Street Theater

8:30-9:30 a.m. Casey and Minna
9:30-10:30 a.m. CBMS Jazz Band
10:30- Noon. Spring Street
Noon-12:30 p.m. Hometown Hero Presentation
12:30-2:00 p.m. Janet Rutland Trio
2:00-3:00 p.m. Seven Feathers
3:00-4:00 p.m. Turtle Creek Cloggers

Wine Garden

Have a taste and sit a spell while in the Oklahoma Wine Garden located in the City Garden Park at Broadway and McKinley.

Food Trucks

Are you a foodie that enjoys the best of the Tulsa region’s food truck scene? Look no further than Herbal Affair. The food truck court features some of the area’s most popular food trucks with delights ranging from Mediterranean, Vietnamese fusion, desserts to traditional local fare.

Plant Sitters

Manned by local Catholic parishioners at St. Patrick’s Church, the Plant Sitters Booth will watch over your purchases free of charge while you explore the festival.

Free Shuttle Service

Park and ride the free shuttle service from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Charles Page High School located at Park and Adams Road, just two blocks north of the Adams Road exit from State Highway 412/64/51.

Maps and T-Shirts

Maps of the festival will be available at the welcome sings at festival entrances, as well as the Information Tent located at City Hall (corner of Broadway and McKinley.) T-shirts will be available at the Information Tent for $15.

Visit the Herbal Affair Web site for more information on this festival, www.herbalaffairandfestival.com.