Operation Christmas Child taking donations Monday at United Methodist Church

/

Courtesy of Samaritan's Purse.

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Rotary Club and the Sand Springs United Methodist Church hosted a nonprofit showcase Thursday and twenty-nine local organizations participated. The free public event included free food and door prizes to help bring public awareness and attention to the organizations and the opportunities for community involvement. One of those organizations seeks to make Christmas a reality for children across the globe.

Operation Christmas Child is headed by Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief effort headed by evangelist Franklin Graham. The organization was founded in 1970 and first began Operation Christmas Child in 1993.

This year more than 4,500 locations will serve as collection sites for shoeboxes filled with school supplies, hygiene items, notes of encouragement, and toys. The goal this year is to reach 12 million children across the world

One of the drop-off locations is at the Sand Springs United Methodist Church Family Living Center, and the final day to contribute is Monday, November 21st. Boxes must be dropped off no later than noon.

Donations may be made in a shoebox or small plastic container. Visit www.samaritanspurse.org for the full list of what you may and may not include. Boxes are to be arranged for either a girl or boy, in age ranges of 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. You can also donate $7 online to follow your box and see who receives it and where in the world they are.

The Family Living Center is located at 101 W. 38th Street in South Sand Springs.

Rotary Club and Parks Department receive awards, City approves OneVoice Legislative Agenda

/

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs City Council met in a regular monthly meeting Monday evening at City Hall and approved several City ordinances and resolutions. Only nine citizens showed up to the public event. 

Mayor Mike Burdge presented a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing the Sand Springs Rotary Club for their contribution toward the Rotary Super Splash pad in Case Community Park. "It was great working with Parks, and we're thrilled with how the project turned out," said a representative from the Rotary Club.

City Council unanimously approved a specific use permit allowing the construction of the new Public Safety facility to be constructed in the Sheffield Crossing development. The facility will house the new Police Headquarters, Fire Station, Training/Conference areas, and a Municipal Jail. The jail is a simple local lockup similar to what's already located in downtown, but slightly larger. A special use permit is a standard requirement for any City jail and the proposed location received little-to-no objection from abutting property owners. 

Council unanimously voted to support the 2017 OneVoice Regional Legislative Agenda. The seven-page agenda represents the City and surrounding area's priorities for the upcoming legislative session and what they hope the State and Federal legislatures will focus on. The agenda lays out thirty bullet points in three categories, including: creating an educated and healthy workforce, building infrastructure critical to business, and ensuring a prosperous economy. 

SEE RELATED: OneVoice Regional Legislative Agenda

Council unanimously voted to approve an ordinance allowing the use of three-year rabies immunizations. Existing ordinance require an annual vaccine for dogs and cats within the City limits, but some veterinarians have begun use of a three-year vaccine that previously wouldn't have been sufficient from a legal standpoint. Pet owners may now make use of either form of vaccine.

Council unanimously voted to affirm two abandoned and dilapidated properties on the North side of the river as public nuisances, clearing the way for their demolition. The properties are located at 514 1/2 N. Washington Ave., and 521 N. Lincoln Ave.

Council unanimously voted to authorize the transfer of property located at 320 N. Lincoln Ave. This allows the City to sell or convey the property. The land is currently being looked at by an anonymous local technical school program that wants to use the property for a housing construction project. The property is now declared as surplus and neighbors have thirty days to protest its use in such a manner, if they so desire.

Consent Agenda, unanimously approved 7-0-0

Council approved a contract with R.L. Shears Company to conduct a sidewalk inventory and prepare a pedestrian improvements plan for the South side of the river. The City previously contracted with Shears Company for a similar project on the North side of the river, using grant funding from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust. The South-side project will also be funded with a TSET grant of $49,880. 

Council approved resolution 17-10, redirecting $60,000 from the Economic Development Capitol Fund to the Morrow Road Widening project. The section of Morrow Road from Highway 97 to Broad Street will be expanded from two to three lanes in preparation for the construction of the Sheffield Crossing development and the future City Public Safety Facility. The City has contracted with Craig & Keithline, Inc. for the project. 

Council authorized an expenditure of up-to $30,369.25 to Garland's Backhoe Service, Inc. for a BPS Water Line Relocation project along Highway 51. As part of the same project, Council approved expenditure of up-to $67,960 to Tomcat Consultants, LLC. for the rental of temporary portable water tanks for six months while the Highway 51 Standpipe is replaced. 

Council approved an additional $2,700 payment to Nova Painting, LLC to the existing $219,100 contract for sandblasting and painting of the Prue Road water tower. 

Council approved expenses up-to $82,000 payable to Tetra Tech, Inc. for the Northside Water Distribution Disinfection System Improvement project.

In Other News:

Sand Springs citizen Gregory Fisher was recently named by Governor Mary Fallin to the Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority. He is filling a newly created position and will serve as a representative of Sand Springs. 

The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge restaurant is now open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. seven days a week.

City offices will be closed November 24th through 25th due to the Thanksgiving holiday.

The Chandler Park Lights on the Hill festival begins November 25th.

The Sand Springs Festival of Lights Christmas Parade is currently scheduled for December 2nd. There is currently no word on if the Chamber of Commerce will reschedule the event should the Sandite Football team win their playoff game Friday night. Last year the Charles Page High School Football team won their semi-final playoff game and qualified for the State Championship for the first time in 49 years. The Chamber rescheduled the Parade for that Saturday so as to not conflict with the historic game. The Sandites are once again in the semi-finals Friday and the State Championship game is once again on the same night as the parade. The theme for this year's parade is "All American Christmas" due to 2016 being both a Presidential Election year and an Olympic year.

The Sand Springs Community Theater will be putting on a free play on December 4th at the Central Ninth Grade Center. "Tomato Plant Girl" recently won its category in a competition in Stillwater and will be moving on to the Regional performance in Lafayette, Louisiana in April. The December performance will be free, but will also be taking cash donations for the April trip, as well as canned food donations for the Sand Springs Community Services. 

The Sand Springs Parks Department recently won an award for their renovation of the Jerry Adair Baseball Park following tornado damage in 2015. The award recognizes both the quality of the renovation as well as the timeliness. 

The Food for Fines amnesty day the City recently implemented saw more than 291 participants, more than 100 of whom had warrants recalled as a result of their canned food donations. The day began at 8:00 a.m. with people lined up waiting, and the two City workers involved worked till 7:30 p.m. with no lunch and no breaks. The City doesn't yet have numbers on loss/gain of revenue, but considers the event to be a large success. 

Sand Springs heavily represented on the ballot, splits from Tulsa County on Commissioner

/

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

How did Sand Springs compare with Oklahoma as a whole in this election? Local voter turnout was up by 7% over the 2012 election as more than 12,000 voters showed up at the twelve Sand Springs precincts. 

Sandites were overwhelmingly Republican in the Presidential election, averaging 64% support for GOP candidates. Democratic candidates took home 28% of the vote, while Independents and Libertarians each snagged 4%.

Unsurprisingly, the black and gold went 71% to Donald Trump, who only gained 58% of the statewide ballots. This was consistent with the 2012 election when Mitt Romney garnered 70% of the local ballot, though Romney reached 67% in the rest of the State. Liberal leaning Sandites turned away from Hillary Clinton as she drew only 23% compared to 29% for Barrack Obama. Libertarian Gary Johnson earned just over 5% locally, compared to 6% across Oklahoma. Johnson has announced he will not campaign in 2020, but his performance in the polls will allow the future Libertarian candidate automatic ballot access in the next election.

Precincts in yellow were won by Lloyd Snow, precincts in white were won by Dan Newberry.

U.S. Senator James Lankford overwhelmingly won Sand Springs with 72% of the vote. Democrat Mike Workman took 20%, Libertarian Robert Murphy took 3%, and independents Mark Beard and Sean Braddy both took 2%. The third party candidates drew local support consistent with the Statewide election, but urban centers bumped Workman's support to 29% across the State.

The most heated of the local elections was between two-term District 37 State Senator Dan Newberry and Democratic challenger, former Sand Springs Superintendent Lloyd Snow. Though Newberry won the election by more than 15%, it was far closer in Snow's hometown where he won four of ten precincts and only trailed by 2%. Snow has announced that he does not intend to run for political office again.

Precincts in yellow were won by Jadine Nollan, precincts in white were won by Dianna Phillips. 

For District 66 State Representative, two-term Republican incumbent Jadine Nollan was aided to a landslide 67% of the vote due to her favorable view in the eyes of most Sandites. Though Democratic challenger Dianna Phillips is also from Sand Springs, she failed to win a single precinct in her hometown. Outside of Sand Springs, the two were neck-and-neck with Nollan getting a slight 4% margin of victory. Within Sand Springs Nollan won all nine precincts with 76% of the vote.

Incumbent Republican Vic Regalado easily won reelection for Tulsa County Sheriff with 66% of the vote in the State and 75% of the Sandite vote. Republican Tulsa County Court Clerk candidate Donald Newberry swept 71% of the Sand Springs vote and 63% of the County.

Precincts in yellow were won by Josh Turley, precincts in white were won by Karen Keith.

Another local election with major Sand Springs ties was the race for Tulsa County Commissioner for District 2. Democratic incumbent Karen Keith won the County vote by 13%, but Republican challenger Josh Turley won his hometown with 56% of the Sandite vote. Turley swung eight of ten Sand Springs precincts and overwhelmingly locked up the entire West side of the county. Turley has already announced his candidacy for the 2020 election. 

Sand Springs, like the rest of the region, voted to retain all seven justices. The only Justice not to break 60% approval in Sand Springs was Supreme Court Justice Douglas Combs who came in at 58%. He was also approved by the lowest margin of the justices across the ballot. He barely won Precinct 880 with only 51% of the vote, which is located in the Keystone lake area South of the Arkansas River. No justice has ever been removed via ballot in the history of the State. 

State Question 776 was approved by 61% across the State and achieved 69% in Sand Springs.

State Question 777 was rejected by 71% of both the State and Sand Springs.

State Question 779 was rejected by 57% of the State and 61% of Sand Springs.

State Question 780 was approved by 65% of the State and 58% of Sand Springs.

State Question 781 was approved by 62% of the State and 55% of Sand Springs.

State Question 790 was rejected by 60% of the State and 59% of Sand Springs.

State Question 792 was approved by 72% of the State and 68% of Sand Springs.

Sand Springs Board of Education discusses recent State Report Cards

/

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Board of Education met in a regular meeting Monday evening at Charles Page High School and discussed matters of school performance. Special recognition was given to the CPHS varsity softball team, as well as Church That Matters, Inkwell Printing, and David and Jeanie Kvach. 

Head Coach Shelli Brown and the varsity softball team were presented with a Coin of Excellence.

SEE RELATED: Sydney Pennington and Jessica Collins make All-State Fast Pitch team

Members of the Sand Springs Education Association briefly addressed the crowd about the success of the recent Walk For Kids fundraiser benefiting Dayspring Villa, which raised more than $2300 dollars. They also thanked the local Wendy's for a donation of $500. 

Jeanie and David Kvach were recognized for their recent donation to the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Initiative. David Kvach is the owner of KLO, LLC, KVR Energy L.L.C., and Guardian Energy Consultants, Inc. Jeanie is the Architect and Master Planner for the Sand Springs School District and owner of Kvach & Associates. 

"Dave and I just believe in this district. We've had two kids graduate from this district. One is a doctor, graduated from Yale Medical," said Jeanie. "We specifically wanted to help improve math in the district, so when I heard about this opportunity I told Dave, 'put your money where your mouth is.'"

Pastor, entrepreneur, and Board of Ed member Rusty Gunn accepted recognitions on behalf of his church and business for their donations to the STEM initiative. Church That Matters volunteers regularly host tailgate fundraiser events prior to all Sandite Football home games. At each game they sell hot dogs, burgers, snacks, and more to raise money for the Sandite athletics programs. According to Gunn, they raised more than $12,000 this year and more than $60,000 since they began doing it a few years ago. Gunn's business, Inkwell Printing, also made a donation to the STEM initiative. 

As the Board moved on from recognitions to business, they spent a hefty amount of time discussing the recent A-F Report Cards issued by the State. 

SEE RELATED: State Releases A-F Report Cards: Sand Springs Schools average B-

Charles Page High School received a C-, but according to Superintendent Durkee, that doesn't tell the whole story. Durkee pointed to CPHS's 51.16% poverty rating as an indicator of why the school appears to perform poorly. Sandite Pride verified Durkee's claims with the State Board of Education's Low Income Report for 2015-2016 and the numbers more than check out. 6A schools with poverty rates below 50% average a score of 86.57, whereas schools over 50% averaged only 69.46. 

When judged against schools with equally economically diverse student bodies, Charles Page is actually above average. Ponca City High School, which holds a poverty percentage of 53.59 scored only a 63% compared to Sand Springs's score of 71%. Neighboring Highway 97 rival Sapulpa scored a 63% as well. 

The only school with a poverty rates over 50% to score above a C was Union with an 82%. Just below Sand Springs in poverty is Booker T. Washington, who received a 97%. According to Durkee, "it's impossible to compare apples to apples here." 

Firstly, Booker T. Washington is a four-year school, whereas Charles Page is only for tenth through twelfth grade. In overall student growth, CPHS scored a 58% in Algebra I, compared to a 92% at Booker T. The difference? Booker T.'s score was based on participation of 296 students. Sand Springs only had twelve participants. The majority of Sand Springs students take Algebra I in ninth grade, meaning the dozen participants at CPHS are students who are already struggling with the subject. Indeed, Sand Springs's Central Ninth Grade Center scored a 94% overall and a 90% in Algebra I based on 374 participating students.

Secondly, Booker T. Washington has admission standards and isn't a typical public school. Applicants to the school must score at the 35th percentile or above in both the reading and mathematics components of the State assessments. They must maintain a cumulative GPA at or above 2.50 and must maintain superb attendance with no suspensions. 

"I'm not making an excuse," said Durkee. "It's a reason that we can't ignore. It's hard to compare with a school that allows selection." 

This is the last year for the current standards of A-F report cards, and next year's scores could look very different due to new laws passed in the most recent legislative session. Next year's reports will be based on math, biology, English, reading, and U.S. history.

"Even if Charles Page gets an A+, I will have a hard time celebrating," said Durkee. "There are flaws in the system."

Durkee also discussed the Twin Cities Elementary property that was vacated by SSPS in 2003. "We may want to look seriously at tearing it down." The building is the oldest school in Sand Springs and has had little to no interest from buyers in the last several years. Though the district isn't making any definitive plans one way or another for now, they're considering razing the building and holding on to the property for potential future expansion years down the line.

Sand Springs bans electronic-cigarettes on City property, approves purchase agreement with OmniTRAX

/

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs City Council unanimously voted Monday evening to ban the use of electronic cigarettes on all City property, including public parks. Ordinance No. 1290, presented by City Planner Brad Bates, amends the existing City of Sand Springs Tobacco Free City Properties and Buildings Ordinance to include vapor-based products that have gained popularity in recent year. 

The City of Sand Springs has been a "tobacco-free" city since 2009 in an effort to alleviate public health concerns and promote a healthy public environment. The City qualifies as a Certified Healthy Community and Certified Healthy Business through the State of Oklahoma's Certified Healthy program, entitling it to certain grant funding through the State Health Department. To-date, the City has received $50,000 that have been used toward healthy living and improvement studies. This new amendment is a step toward Gold Level recognition from the Health Department that would qualify the City for an additional $50,000 grant.

In other news, the Council unanimously approved the Consent Agenda, which is made up of items considered to be "routine," including:

  • Approval of Resolution No. 17-07 for the 2017 City Council Election.
    • Mayor Mike Burdge (Ward 3) and Vice-Mayor (Ward 4) will both be up for reelection in 2017. Citizens do not vote for Mayor or Vice-Mayor, but vote only on City Council positions. The Council itself elects a Mayor and Vice-Mayor from within.
    • The filing period will open December 5th, 2016 and will close December 7th, 2016. Candidates must reside within the Ward they are running for election in, and must be at-minimum 25 years of age by May 1st, 2017. If more than two candidates file for an office, a primary election will be held on Tuesday, February 14th, 2017. The general (runoff) election will be held April 4th, 2017. City Council elections are non-partisan. 
  • Approval of a Traffic Enforcement Agreement between the City of Sand Springs and the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office for reimbursement of overtime and operating expenses incurred for the grant period October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017. 
    • The Sand Springs Police Department will receive a $50,000 grant from OHSO for the purpose of reimbursing overtime and operating expenses resulting from the targeting of impaired and aggressive drivers. It will also allow for a designee to travel to the Lifesavers Conference in Long Beach, California. 
  • Approval of an Emergency Management Performance Agreement between the City of Sand Springs and the Oklahoma Office of Emergency Management providing a 50/50 sub-grant portion of funds to develop comprehensive emergency preparedness for all hazards.
    • This is a routine fund-matching grant that the City has taken advantage of for nearly two decades. The City allocates $20,000 for emergency preparedness each year, and FEMA matches with a contribution of $20,000.
  • Acceptance of $20,090 from Sand Springs Park Friends, Inc.
    • This is the final portion of the $70,000 pledge by the Sand Springs Rotary Club for construction of the Rotary Super Splash Pad in River City Parks. 

Following the Consent Agenda, the Council also unanimously passed Resolution No. 17-08, with the purpose of informing Sand Springs citizens of potential impact of State Question 777 on the ability of the City to to regulate land use activities and other potential effects. 

SQ777, also known as the "Oklahoma Right to Farm Amendment," will be on the November 8, 2016 ballot as a proposed constitutional amendment. The specific text of the question can be viewed here. Resolution 17-08, drafted by Vice-Mayor John Fothergill, reminds citizens of the role local government plays in regulating land usage and zoning according to the community desires and needs. The full resolution can be read here.

City Council unanimously approved a resolution concerning the location of the future public safety facility for the City. Resolution 17-06 was unanimously passed, authorizing the City to purchase 10 acres at a cost of $1.00 per foot from OmniTRAX. The current planned location of the facility is on the South side of Morrow Road, across the street from the Walmart Supercenter. The transaction will cost the City approximately $435,600. The purchase is not final yet, but the terms of the agreement are not expected to change. 

Stone Villa Second addition.

Council unanimously approved the final plat for the new Stone Villa addition in South Sand Springs. The addition will include 87 lots on 19.8 acres.

In Council Correspondence, Pogue Airport and Airport Supervisor Ken Madison received praise for the quality of the airport and the hospitality of the administration. 

Boy Scout Troop 507 was on hand to observe the City Council meeting and get a taste of local government.

Mike and Pat Case donate $2 million for massive park renovation; Sand Springs breaks ground

/

Mike Case gives an address at the Case Community Park groundbreaking ceremony. (Photo: Scott Emigh)

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

City of Sand Springs officials and Parks Department employees gathered together Tuesday morning at the Case Community Center to celebrate a new development in River City Park. The 100-acre park will receive a $6.2 million renovation thanks to Vision 2025 funding and a $2 million donation by Mike and Pat Case of Case & Associates. 

Artist rendering of the new Case Community Park entrance. (Courtesy)

What is currently known as River City Park is already the biggest park in Sand Springs and will soon become one of the nicest in Tulsa County thanks to Vision 2025 surplus funding and the Case family's benevolence. 

Tulsa County approved millions in surplus Vision 2025 sales tax funding for Sand Springs in February of last year and Case & Associates CEO Mike Case pledged an additional $2 million to fully fund the ambitious Sand Springs parks vision. 

Left to Right: Councilman Phil Nolan, Councilman Brian Jackson, Mayor Mike Burdge, Mike Case, Pat Case, Councilwoman Patty Dixon, Vice-Mayor John Fothergill, Councilman Beau Wilson. (Photo: Scott Emigh)

"This is only possible because of generous donors like Mike and Pat Case," said Sand Springs City Councilwoman Patty Dixon. "Even though Mike and Pat now reside in Tulsa, they have always considered Sand Springs home."

"I've always thought Sand Springs was a great place to live. I still do and I think it's getting better and better," said Mike Case. 

Artist rendering of the "Great Lawn" and amphitheater. (Courtesy)

Mayor Mike Burdge discussed the similarities in population and quality of living between Sand Springs and Broken Arrow when he was growing up. "What changed was the attitude of the leadership in the City," said Burdge. "If we can get this park to be a location spot, get stuff going on here every month...the possibilities are unlimited."

The park is already the home of the Sand Springs Soccer Club recreational league, the West Side Alliance competitive soccer league, Sand Springs Little League baseball and softball, the Round Up Club rodeo arena, and the Sand Springs BMX Association. The recent addition of the Rotary Club Super Splash Pad has rounded out what was already a destination park for many in the Sand Springs area. 

Planned layout for Case Community Park. (Courtesy)

The new funding will provide for the demolition of old structures and the construction of a new amphitheater. New sidewalks, signage, landscaping, and a large-scale entrance will add to the looks of the park.

Existing BMX track located in River City Parks. (Photo: Scott Emigh)

New sports facilities include two new youth baseball fields, a new tournament-sized soccer field, and a new half-court basketball court. An existing volleyball court will be renovated along with several horseshoe pits. The soccer fields, which currently have no special entrance, will receive a grand entry, as will the Jerry Adair Baseball Park, which is currently accessible only in a round-about way that requires leaving the park itself and driving down an industrial business road. An existing 18-hole disc golf course will be relocated deeper within the park in the area of the BMX track and Rodeo Arena. 

Accessibility will be a major feature of the new renovations, with drop-off locations throughout the park, new parking and lighting, and new park shelters and restrooms. Park beautification is also a major goal with plans for improved view of the Arkansas River, nearly a dozen custom art pieces laser cut in Corten Steel and illuminated at night, as well as a grassy area being dubbed the "Great Lawn." 

The Great Lawn will host a large outdoor pavilion and special event stage with remodeled restrooms and will be the premier viewing location for the annual Sertoma Fireworks Show, as well as will be the anchor location of the Chillin' and Grillin' Festival. 

Construction is already under way in Case Community Park. (Photo: Scott Emigh)

There will be a new playground constructed near the Rotary Super Splash Pad, which is already home to a large concessions building ran by Sand Springs Soccer Club President Jeremy Herrington. The concessions serves hot food and Harper's Hut Shaved Ice throughout the summer as a fundraiser for youth baseball and soccer. 

Public events like the Chilin' and Grillin' Festival, as well the newly revived Great Raft Race will be made even better due to new restroom housing, electrical power connections, water line service, and parking.

Parks Director Grant Gerondale expects the renovation to take about a year to complete.

Officer Brian Tomsovic swears in with Sand Springs Police Department

/

Municipal Judge Jay McAtee administers the Oath of Office to Police Officer Brian Tomsovic. (Photo: Scott Emigh)

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Municipal Judge Jay McAtee administered the Oath of Office to Police Officer Brian Tomsovic Monday evening at the Sand Springs City Council Meeting.

Officer Tomsovic is a move-in from the Ada Police Department where he served for the past three years. Tomsovic comes to Sand Springs with SWAT experience and has also received the same training that all new Sand Springs officers go through.

According to Police Chief Mike Carter, all officers new to the Department, regardless of prior experience, undergo the same training as a fresh recruit and complete the same rookie year probationary period.

Tomsovic made headlines in October of 2013 after rescuing a distraught woman on an Ada bridge who was threatening suicide. Tomsovic spent twenty minutes talking to the woman and ultimately gave her his phone so she could talk to a family member. While she was distracted on the phone, he reached for her to restrain her and prevent her from potentially jumping. After the event he was recommended by his Sergeant for the State of Oklahoma Life Saving Award. 

Sand Springs Police announce amnesty day for individuals with outstanding warrants

/

Deputy Court Clerk Kenny Penrod presents the "Food for Fines" program to Sand Springs City Council. (Photo: Scott Emigh)

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs City Council met in a regular meeting Monday evening and City officials announced an upcoming special amnesty day for citizens with outstanding warrants due to unpaid fines.

Deputy Court Clerk Kenny Penrod presented the "Food for Fines" amnesty program, which will be a one-day event on November 10th, a Thursday. The special program will last all day and will allow citizens with outstanding fines to come to the Police Station and pay them off or set up payment plans without fear of being arrested. The day will also serve as a food drive for Sand Springs Community Services. 

According to Penrod, there are currently more than 3,600 people wanted by the Sand Springs Police Department accounting for more than 9,000 active warrants. The majority of the warrants are due to unpaid fines of less than $200.

On November 10th only, citizens will be able to bring in certain food items requested by the SSCS at an exchange rate of $10 for every 1 item, with a cap of 20 items. 

Allowing citizens to pay off $200 fines for under $20 will hopefully encourage people to clear their name and remove the worry of being arrested during a routine traffic stop, while also providing a community service. 

The program will also serve to help get people back in the system. Even individuals whose fines are greater than $200 will still benefit from the program. They can pay off up to $200 of their debt, and can set up payment plans or community service hours to pay off the remainder. 

"It costs us money to put people in jail, have no doubt," said Police Chief Mike Carter. 

The program is expected to bring in individuals who would otherwise be unlikely to ever pay their fines. Once warrants are issued, individuals are far less likely to appear to pay their fines out of fear of being arrested. Citizens with low income who were unable to pay their initial fine will now be able to get right with the law.

Sand Springs Police sign external investigation agreement with Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation

/

Photo: Scott Emigh

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Police Department took a proactive step in instilling transparency within the department Monday evening when Police Chief Mike Carter signed a "Memorandum of Understanding" between the City of Sand Springs and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.

After a unanimous 7-0-0 vote by the Sand Springs City Council, Carter put pen to paper, officially putting in place a policy of turning over internal investigations to the OSBI when use of deadly force has occurred. 

In situations involving "the shooting or attempted shooting of a person by a law enforcement officer; the death of an intended arrestee during an arrest attempt; the death of an arrestee while in the care, custody, or control of the (SSPD); or the death of an arrestee shortly after being in the care, custody or control of the (SSPD)," the OSBI will take over as an unbiased external investigating agency.

OSBI Director Stan Florence addressed the City Council and stated "I applaud the Chief for his foresight in this matter. It's a wise move on the part of Sand Springs and I applaud the Chief in his wisdom."

"I am continuously impressed with how great our police department performs and how great their leadership is," said Mayor Mike Burdge. 

Officer-involved shootings are a rarity in Sand Springs. So rare that the department went seventeen years years without an incident before that era came to an end on April 11, 2015. On that day Officer Brian Barnett shot and killed Donald W. Allen, a paranoid schizophrenic who approached the officer with a loaded .22-caliber pistol after threatening to kill officers. Barnett was responding to a 911 call about Allen discharging his firearm in his backyard, within City limits. 

Although the SSPD has always had the ability to investigate in-house, former Police Chief Daniel Bradley, who is now the Assistant City Manager, made the decision to request the OSBI's assistance in the investigation.

2015 saw yet another officer-involved shooting in November that received international attention. That incident went viral not due to police misconduct, but due to body-cam footage of the erratic behavior of the suspect. Responding to a stolen vehicle call, Sand Springs Master Patrol Officer Matt Stacy engaged in a high speed pursuit of Stacy Ann Bunsey. The woman, who was determined to be under the influence, attempted to run the officer down after he exited his vehicle to set up tire spikes. He fired on her, but did not hit her and neither was seriously injured.

The OSBI investigated both incidents last year and ruled that each was a justified use of force. 

While shootings are very uncommon in Sand Springs, a Tulsa suburb with a population just short of 20,000, Carter and the Department have been working hard to be proactive in preserving their department's reputation of transparency and community trust. 

This agreement is just one of many activities the Department is engaging in to further build community trust and prevent any future incidents. 

The Department was one of the first in the State to utilize body cams on all officers, and have utilizing them for eight years. They have greatly increased the amount of warnings that are given in relation to the total number of traffic stops. Officers have been engaging in Crisis Intervention Team training, Fair and Impartial Policing training, Use of Force training, Verbal Skills training, and more. 

Carter wants to set a high standard of reputability regarding interactions with the mentally ill, impoverished, and minorities. "Our officers make this possible," said Carter. "It's not me, it's them."

Sand Springs grad Dylan Whitney headlines Oklahoma Stage at Tulsa State Fair

/

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Charles Page High School Class of 2015 graduate Dylan Whitney has been making waves in the local and Midwest blues scene recently, performing at the Sand Springs Chillin 'n' Grillin Festival, the Bixby Vintage Down South Festival, Tulsa Mayfest, and even the Exit 56 Blues Fest in Tennessee.

On Sunday he will taking one of his biggest platforms yet when he headlines the Oklahoma Stage at the Tulsa State Fair. The Tulsa Fair is far from a local showcase. Some of the other headliners on that stage this past week have included Old Dominion, Brothers Osbourne, Chris Janson, Mercy Me, Kellie Pickler, and Elle King. 

Alongside Whitney is vocalist Christi King, bass guitarist Scott Craig, guitarist Michael McClure, and drummer Randy Reese. When the band isn't traveling, Whitney is a guitar instructor at the Butler Music School of Tulsa.

The Dylan Whitney Band will take the stage at 4:00 p.m. Sunday. Admission is included with regular fair entry fee. The stage is located on the West side of the Fairgrounds next to the Exchange Center.

Keystone Chevrolet donates $3000 to SSPS; School Board discusses changes in curriculum and high stakes testing

/

Board Member Pastor Rusty Gun presents Mike Frizell of Keystone Chevy with the Sandite Spirit Award. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs Board of Education held their regularly monthly meeting Monday evening at the Charles Page High School Fine Arts Building and presented two awards before beginning regular business. 

Keystone Chevrolet was presented with the Sandite Spirit Award for their recent $3,000 donation to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics programs in Sand Springs. They had previously donated a year's worth of free oil changes to last year's Teacher of the Year. "All of us (Keystone Chevy owners) are products of public school and want to help contribute," said Managing Partner Mike Frizell. 

Board of Ed President Mike Mullins presents CNGC teacher Andrea Brice with the Sandite Pacesetter Award. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

Central Ninth Grade teacher Andrea Brice was presented with the Sandite Pacesetter Award for her recent appointment to the Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education.

The Board discussed upcoming changes to graduation requirements since the last legislative session. 

This past May the Oklahoma Legislature passed House Bill 3218, a bipartisan effort with overwhelming support in both the House and Senate. The amendatory bill abolished the previous requirements surrounding controversial "End of Instruction" (EOI) exams that had the potential to prevent a student from graduating based solely on test scores. The new laws still require assessments on English, Mathematics, and Science, but these assessments will not prevent students with satisfactory grades and attendance from graduating. 

Schools throughout the State now have the ability to establish contact with former students under the age of 22, who passed all high school requirements except EOIs, and present them with diplomas. Thanks to the due diligence of Sand Springs teachers and administrators, there is not a single former student from either Charles Page High School or Page Alternative Academy (formerly Lake Alternative Academy) who failed to graduate based solely on EOI scores.

The 51-page bill eliminated entire sections of its previous incarnation, and added more than six pages of new law. The changes passed in HB3218 and other pieces of legislature passed this past session have both the State and local Boards of Education working hard to set new standards for testing students, as well as grading school performances. 

Superintendent Sherry Durkee informed the Board that she has reached out to Oklahoma LED, a wholesale lighting Energy Savings Company regarding their Power Forward rebate program. The program offers a free analysis of all Sand Springs Public Schools properties. Ponca City schools recently made the decision to use the program and is saving around $23,000 a month according to Durkee.

The program would replace every single light bulb in the district with an LED bulb over a four-to-five year period, providing a higher quality, longer-lasting, and environmental friendly alternative to a traditional bulb. The bulbs hold a fifteen-year life expectancy with a five-year warranty. At worst, the program is expected to be cost-neutral, and at best can save thousands for the schools through longer-lasting bulbs as well up to $150,000 in rebates from the Public Service Company of Oklahoma. 

The Board approved several out of state travel expenses for students and faculty.

Daniel Schmidt and Jacob Adkinson will be attending the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis in October, then Schmidt will attend several Show Pigs events in Ohio, Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri from October through November. Andrea Brice will attend the National ACTE Convention in Las Vegas in December. Seven faculty members will be attending the National Title I Conference in Long Beach, California in February. All of these events are paid for with federal Professional Development funding specifically given to the schools for this purpose. 

The Charles Page High School wrestling team will travel to Kansas City in December for the prestigious Kansas City Stampede invitational tournament. They have been attending the event since 2013 and have had at least one champion every year. Last year they took fifteenth place out of forty teams. Both the Boys' and Girls' Basketball teams will be attending the Interstate Classic tournament in Coffeyville, Kansas in January. Last year the girls team took first place and the boys took second.

The Board authorized a resolution to call for an Annual School Election on February 14, 2017. Board President Mike Mullins will be up for reelection on that date. 

The Board invites all members of the community to participate in an online survey to help in developing a Continuous Strategic Improvement (CSI) plan. That survey is available HERE. Citizens interested in lending their voice to the initiative can also attend forums on the subject Wednesday. There will be an 8:30 a.m. forum at Garfield Elementary, a 3:30 p.m. forum at the Charles Page Fine Arts Center, and a 5:30 p.m. forum at the Clyde Boyd Middle School Library.

Sand Springs City Clerk Janice Almy receives award at OML conference

/

Sand Springs, OK- The Oklahoma Municipal Clerks, Treasurers and Finance Officials Association (OMCTFOA) recognized Sand Springs City Clerk Janice Almy as Member of the Year this month at the Oklahoma Municipal League’s annual conference.

The purpose of the OMCTFOA Member of the Year Awards is to identify and recognize a member who has made a significant contribution to the objectives of the association, the profession and to the improvement of municipal government.

Almy has been a member of OMCTFOA since 1999, joined the Board in 2010 and has served on the Board as Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President, President and Past President.

“It is an honor to be recognized by OMCTFOA,” said Almy. “I enjoy the work we do as an organization and the way I’m able to give back to my community.”

Over the years, Almy has been instrumental in many community events including Municipal Government Week where she created skits for mock Council meetings held by high school students and gave tours of various City departments to students.

“It’s important to educate young people about the role of municipal government,” said Almy. “These are our future tax payers, City Councilors and even employees.”

The award was presented by Cindy Pollard, OMCTFOA 2016 President and past 2015 Member of the Year, Tony Davenport.

Ninth Annual Downhill Derby returns to downtown Sand Springs

/

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

SEE PHOTO GALLERY HERE.

The Ninth Annual Downhill Derby soapbox car race was hosted by the Sand Springs Rotary Club in downtown today. 

The tradition began in 2008 under the leadership of the now defunct Sand Springs Civitan Club and was put on in the heart of downtown on Main Street. The Great Sand Springs Downhill Soapbox Derby Race was an immediate success with 131 entries in what was expected to be a small local event. Former mayor Bob Walker is credited with first suggesting a soapbox derby in a Civitan Club meeting. 

In 2011 the festivities were moved to Charles Page High School, with the vendors in the parking lot, and the race track on Adams Road. The move added a half-block to the course track and eliminated the need for a sand trap at the end of the course. That year also saw the addition of the "Putting Smoke on the Track" barbecue and grilling competition. The event attracted more than 4,000 spectators and participants. 

2012 saw the addition of hot-air balloons to the competition.

In 2013 the Civitan Club asked the City of Sand Springs to take over the event

In 2014 the City of Sand Springs cancelled the event a month beforehand and two weeks before signups closed, citing low registration. 

In May of 2015 it was announced that the Sand Springs Rotary Club would be taking over the tradition. The event was billed the "Eighth Annual Downhill Derby," despite not having occurred the previous year. The festivities returned to the Triangle area of downtown.

This year had low spectator turnout and participation, but still drew some creative cars and excited youth competitors. 

Macen Henry won the Kids Novelty division in a large boxy blue car, followed by Shaun Allen in a red bullet-shaped vehicle, and Garrett Kennedy piloted a long hot-rod shaped two-seater. 

Greg Kennedy won the Adult Novelty competition in the two-seater he shared with his son with a time of 32.06 seconds. Sandy Cox came in second in the Cecil and Sons car with a close 32.16 time, followed by Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith in third. 

In the Kids Competitive division, the creativity was waved for speedier designs. Caleb Diggs won first place with a time of 30.15 seconds, followed by Cheyenne Wyatt in 30.68. Shaun Allen took third place.

The Adult Competitive champion was Thad Davis of Team Skunk Works who finished in 28.62, a full second ahead of Jon Diggs at 29.69. Third place went to Christina Wyatt.

Several food vendors were on hand, including Livi Lee's Donuts, Rib Crib, and Barnyard Blizzard Shaved Ice. Mission Christian Church was also there handing out free water bottles to spectators. 

Author Jamie Jones to speak at Word of Life Church Sunday morning

/

Courtesy. 

Word of Life Church in Sand Springs will host Christian author and preacher Jamie Jones at their 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. services Sunday morning.

Jones will be promoting her newest book, "Rich For Good." 

"By the time author Jamie Jones was in her 30s, she had gone from having to pray for toothpaste to becoming a millionaire. Rich for Good is not only the "how" and the "why" she did it, but how the why makes all the difference. Rich for Good offers a fresh perspective on doing finances God's way. Each chapter focuses on one of 10 tried and true practices derived from a combination of scriptures, thought provoking questions, and real-life situations. These principles shed light on acquiring wealth the right way for the right reasons. In the world of how-to-get-rich books, Jamie's raw and honest approach sets Rich for Good apart as a humorous and insightful read. Her practical and spiritual guidance helps readers acquire the financial freedom that happens when prosperity partners with purpose."

Word of Life is located at 1402 N. 81st W. Ave., Sand Springs, Oklahoma.
www.mywordoflife.com

56th Annual Greek Festival returns to Tulsa this weekend

/

By: Morgan Miller, Executive Director

Food, fun, and Mediterranean festivities await Oklahomans in the Tulsa area this weekend as the 56th Annual Tulsa Greek Festival returns to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.

The festival is Tulsa's oldest Ethnic Festival and has been put on every year by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church since it started in 1960.

There is something for everyone at this festival. They have traditional dancing and music, authentic Greek appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts as well as church tours, and shopping.

The festival will even be dedicating an entire tent to the OU v. Ohio State game Saturday, courtesy of Channel 8 News. The tent will be exclusive to viewers of the game and will charge an entrance fee. It will be full-service with food and drinks served within.

The entrees and appetizers that are being served include chicken and pork souvlaki, calamari, lamb dinner, gyros, cheese pies, dolmathes, Greek salad, spinach pies, and more. Dessert includes classics like baklava and galaktoboureko, along with modern twists like the baklava sundae. The full menu can be found here. As for drinks, there will be imported Greek soda and wine, and Ouzo. Ouzo is a sweet anise flavored liqueur similar-tasting to licorice. 

The festival started on the 15th, and will continue this evening into tomorrow. The hours for Friday and Saturday are 11:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. After 4:00 p.m. there will be a $3 entry fee for adults. The festival is at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church at 1222 S. Guthrie Ave, Tulsa Oklahoma 74119. 

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

/

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

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

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

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

Car Show sponsors:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Public Safety facilities to be built at former Gerdau site alongside retail development

/

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

The Sand Springs City Council unanimously approved a development agreement with OmniTRAX, Inc. Monday evening. Two weeks ago OmniTRAX announced their acquisition of the 146-acre site formerly owned by Sheffield Steel, then by Gerdau Ameristeel. OmniTRAX plans to demolish portions of the Steel Mill and develop the property for industrial and commercial use. In addition to developing a 25-acre retail area, the property will also be the home to the new City of Sand Springs Public Safety facilities. 

Tony Manos, Senior Vice-President of Industrial Development at OmniTRAX, provided a presentation on the project at the City Council meeting. 

OmniTRAX is the owning entity of the Sand Springs Railway, which was acquired in 2014 from Gerdau, and has been leasing portions of the Gerdau property since that time. The company maintains 20 short-line railroads in 9 states and 3 Canadian provinces and works in rail services, terminal services, logistics services, and industrial development. 

"We are a very invested company in our communities," said Manos. "(City-Manager) Elizabeth (Gray)'s team and the two Chiefs (Police Chief Mike Carter and Fire Chief Mike Wood) have been incredible, as well as City Council. This has been the smoothest transition I've ever been a part of in the real estate business."

The Steel Mill is expected to be demolished sometime next year and the new City public safety facilities will be built directly across from WalMart. OmniTRAX is also looking to bring quality jobs to the Sand Springs community, and announced that a new tenant will be moving into a 20,000 sq. ft. facility by April of next year, and will create approximately 50 new jobs for the community.

"We are so proud to bring something back to a site that has been so important to our town throughout its history," said Councilman John Fothergill.  "It really does mean a lot to our city." 

The effort to relocate the current public safety facilities began in 2013 when voters approved a proposition to demolish Fire Station 1, but voted against the corresponding proposition to build a new one. Luckily, there was no timeline for the proposition, and Sand Springs has retained their north side Fire Station. The proposition that failed would have been funded through a property tax increase that could amount to as much as $100 a year for homeowners.

The City gave the project another go in October of last year, when citizens overwhelming voted in favor of extending current sales tax levels. The tax money would be redirected from the previous allocation to a new building for police, fire, and dispatchers. This vote also nixed the decision to demolish Fire Station One, and called for a remodel of the facility to give the Sand Springs Fire Department three stations. 

The City purchased property from the Sand Springs Home in 2014 at the corner of 129th West Avenue and Wekiwa with the intent to build the facilities there, but was met with public concerns that the area was too far outside of town. 

At their last meeting, City Council unanimously approved a contract with Dewberry Architects for design of the new public safety facilities. Their construction will take approximately one year from the completion of the new designs. 

OmniTRAX to present plans for Gerdau property to City Council Monday

/

SUBMITTED

Sand Springs, OK- The Sand Springs Railway Company (SS), a managed affiliate of OmniTRAX, Inc., announced on September 1, 2016 that it is acquiring the Gerdau mill site in Sand Springs. Representatives from OmniTRAX will present preliminary development plans to the Sand Springs City Council on Monday, September 12th.

“For many years, this property was underutilized,” said Sand Springs Mayor Mike Burdge. “The City of Sand Springs is excited to see it become a vibrant and bustling area of commerce, trade and industry. We believe OmniTRAX has the expertise and resources to make that happen. The City looks forward to partnering with OmniTRAX on any future projects.”

Sand Springs Holdings, LLC., an OmniTRAX affiliate, purchased the Sand Springs Railway Company from Gerdau in 2014 and has since been leasing portions of the 146-acre site. Part of the steelmaking operations on the site will be demolished and the property will be developed for mixed-use, including industrial, retail, office and transportation/logistics.

For more updates on development and City happenings, please visit www.sandspringsok.org.

Tyler Morrison receives Student Spirit Award for constructing new gardens at Garfield

/

Gardens constructed by Tyler Morrison at the new Garfield STEAM Academy

By: Virgil Noah, Staff Writer

The regular monthly meeting of the Sand Springs Board of Education was held Tuesday in the Charles Page High School Performing Arts Building. The meeting began with the recognition and presentation of awards to several people.

Garfield STEAM Academy lost its garden after undergoing an extensive remodel, but that problem was fixed when student Tyler Morrison volunteered to be the eagle scout for the school, put together a plan and build the gardens. "It was really busy but it was a lot of fun. I had a lot of help and I definitely couldn't have done it without help." Tyler was presented with a Student Spirit Award and a gift card to Rib Crib.

Sand Springs Education Foundation Director Sylvia Fooshee was presented with a Sandite Spirit Award for her contributions and dedication over the years to Sand Springs Schools.

Board of Education President Mike Mullins was recently recognized with the Oklahoma State School Board Association Distinguished Service Award. Mullins, who recently gave up his gavel as President of the OSSBA, received the award at the annual OSSBA/Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration (CCOSA) conference in Oklahoma City. The award is given to only one individual a year. Mullins was also presented with the Sandite Think Right Award for his 19 years of service on the Sand Springs Board of Education. 

The Sand Springs School district set a goal of $65,000 in fundraising for the STEM initiative this year. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Electronics, and Mathematics. Several local businesses and organizations have made donations to the program. The Sand Springs Home was recognized for their $10,000 donation and LD Kerns Contractors was recognized for its work on the Garfield Renovation Project and a $500 donation to the STEM Initiative.

The Board approved out of state travel for several Sandite extra curricular events. The varsity Cross Country teams will be traveling to Fayetteville, Arkansas in October for the Chile Pepper XC Festival. The Dance team will be attending Dance Nationals in Orlando, Florida in February. The CPHS band will be headed to the Alamo Showcase of Music in San Antonio in April. Sandite Baseball will play in a Spring Break Tournament in Phoenix, Arizona in March. 

Sharon James, Matt Watkins, and Heather Miller are attending a Literacy Conference in San Diego, California later this month. Kristen Tanner received a $1,240 Scholarship from Engineering in Elementary to attend their workshop, Linking the E & M in STEM, in Boston, Massachusetts in November.

Local businesses and churches say farewell to summer with stellar parties

/

Photo: Courtesy, Holly Felts Photography

By: Scott Emigh, Editor-in-Chief

Sand Springs students have been back in school for a week now, but two local youth groups just held big "Back-to-School" parties Wednesday night. 

Forward Youth, the youth ministry of Word of Life Church, held their third annual Whiteout powdered-paint war with inflatables and slip'n'slide kick ball. The Movement, Church That Matters's youth group, held their third annual Meltdown snowball fight with shaved ice provided by Harper's Hut Shaved Ice & Java and the Sweet Pink Shack.

Forward Youth celebrated their first service at their new location. The youth have had their own building at 10th and Adams since the church vacated that building and moved to their current location at 1402 N. 81st W. Ave. The church recently announced the transition to bring their youth into the main church building earlier this summer. 

The party featured free shaved ice from Sandlot Sno-Balls and free donuts from Livi Lee's. The church provided a massive inflatable obstacle course and bounce-house and played games of slip'n'slide kick ball on the church's baseball field. For the third year the church hosted a powdered-paint war with more than a hundred attendees. The war splits the youth group into two sides with each student receiving bags of dry powder paint to hurdle at the other team. 

The Movement has also been doing their Meltdown Summer Snowball Fight for three years now, using buckets and coolers full of ice shaved by Harper's Hut and the Sweet Pint Shack. The packed event held its worship service outside in the church parking lot at 3 West 41st Street.