City of Sand Springs approves new comprehensive plan for next fifteen years

The Sand Springs City Council recently voted to adopt a new "Sand Springs 2030 Land Use Master Plan," updating the city comprehensive plan for the first time since 2002. City employees first began the new plan in fall of 2015 and it was approved by the City Planning Commission in May.

The plan hopes to anticipate future development and provide a flexible tool for evaluating development proposals. 

Chapter I: Community History and Background

The first chapter of the plan is taken from Carl E. Gregory's The Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture. The chapter recounts the tale of Charles Page's acquisition of wealth and land, his charitable exploits, and his steps to develop the community that would become Sand Springs.

The town began with the relocation of a failing orphanage, the construction of the Sand Springs Home, the founding of the eighty-acre Sand Springs Park, the formation of the Sand Springs Railway, and finally the incorporation of the City in 1912 with approximately 400 citizens. 

Charles Page's generosity included the offering of free land to citizens and a $20,000 relocation bonus for companies. In 1918 he established a "Widow's Colony" alongside the Home. He recruited the relocation of the  Kerr Glass Manufacturing Company, Commander Mills, Southwest Box Company, and Sinclair Prairie Refineries. Less than ten years after its incorporation, the community had grown to more than 4,000 individuals.

In 1965 the City annexed the Prattville community on the south side of the Arkansas River, and in 1969 the City chartered a Council-Manager form of government.

Chapter II: Plan Development

In the fall of 2015, the Planning Department launched a community survey that received more than 600 participants. In the summer of 2016 an interactive map was presented to the community, allowing them to identify what type of development they would like to see in which parts of the community. It received over a hundred suggestions, including a revitalization effort along Charles Page Boulevard and a desire to see the site of the former Gerdau Steel Mill utilized.

Following the community surveys, input was also requested from each of the City departments regarding their needs and desires. Community property owners were contacted regarding their desires for undeveloped properties under their ownership, as well as developmental challenges and difficulties they have encountered. The public school district was consulted regarding future plans for growing the district. 

Chapter III: Social and Demographic Factors

The 2030 projected population by INCOG (Indian Nations Council of Governments) is 23,083 in Sand Springs. At the 2010 Census, Sand Springs had a total population of 18,906 residents, an increase of 8.3% from the 2000 population of 17,451. 

In 2010, the median age of Sand Springs was 36.5 years. The population was 81.8% white, 2.4% African-American, and 8.8% Native American. The average household had 2.63 occupants. The city had a higher employment rate than Tulsa County, Osage County, and the Tulsa Metro. The median household income in 2013 was $54,381, also higher than the Tulsa Metro, Tulsa County, and Osage County.

Chapter IV: Goals and Action Plan Strategies

Land Use

Goal 1: "Sand Springs will be a well-coordinated and planned community with uses that complement and support infrastructure improvements."

Goal 2: "Sand Springs will utilize sound land use planning principals that encourages the appropriate placement of a variety of housing, commercial, recreational, entertainment, and employment options throughout the community."

Goal 3: "The City will maintain land development regulations to manage future growth and development in a manner that protects environmental resources."

Quality of Life

Goal 1: "Sand Springs will be a community that encourages people to be active and healthy and that promotes healthy living and sustainability. This will be accomplished by providing opportunities for active living to all ages year round."

Goal 2: "Sand Springs will have a network of trails, sidewalks and bicycle transportation systems that safely connect parks, schools, libraries, neighborhoods, shopping areas, museums, and other historic sites."

Goal 3: "Sand Springs will be a community that has access to expanded health and wellness care, in addition to attempting to increase the availability of health food choices available to the community."

Goal 4: "The City shall be an aesthetically pleasing community based on a solid foundation of code enforcement and in seeking opportunities to improve zoning and development codes."

Goal 5: "Sand Springs shall have desirable/appealing parks offering recreational opportunities for the community."

Goal 6: "The City will strive to have park equality by providing its citizens throughout the City parks that are well manicured, maintained, and functional for optimal enjoyment."

Goal 7: "Develop Case Community Park into a regional destination by implementing strategically planned park improvements and enhancements, thus creating a public space that is inviting, functional, appealing, and sustainable."

Goal 8: "Continue to develop the Keystone Ancient Forest into a premiere nature preserve/hiking venue in the Tulsa Metropolitan Area."

Goal 9: "Develop City-owned Sports Facilities into premiere venues with top quality playing surfaces, lighting, and amenities."

Infrastructure

Goal 1: "The City of Sand Springs strives to meet or exceed requirements of the EPA and ODEQ regulations at all times in constructing, maintaining, and operating all Water Treatment Pumping, Distribution and Storage Facilities and Systems."

Goal 2: "The City of Sand Springs strives to meet or exceed requirements of the EPA and ODEQ - for providing contemporary and adequate treatment facilities & operations to meet or exceed effluent discharge quality requirements, while making appropriate accommodations for conveyance and collection systems for treatment.

Goal 3: "Plan for new street improvement projects that provide for priority replacements & upgrades to maintain the best possible drivability with sufficient number of lanes, and include provisions for maximum feasible multimodal mobility."

Goal 4: "Plan for rehabilitation/new improvement projects that provide for priority replacements & upgrades to maximize stormwater detention and drainage efficiency and capacity."

Goal 5: "Plan to be a City that takes preventative measures to prevent damaging of the Earth's ecosystems and in order to maintain a high quality of life Sand Springs citizens and the Tulsa Metropolitan Area by managing and disposing of their waste efficiently and safely."

Downtown Area

Goal 1: "Sand Springs shall have a lively, active, and pedestrian oriented downtown with a mix of uses such as restaurants/bars, boutiques, shops, offices, and housing.

Goal 2: "Reinforce and enhance the City's downtown as one of the primary focal points of the community."

Public Safety

Goal 1: "Sand Springs Emergency Services will have excellent law enforcement/firefighter customer service that meets the needs of the citizens now and in the future."

Goal 2: "Sand Springs shall be a community with safe neighborhoods, shopping, and employment areas."

Goal 3: "Sand Springs will proactively maintain/replace public safety technology, equipment, and fleets in order to provide an effective capable workforce."

Goal 4: "Develop, Design, and Construct a Municipal Safety Facility."

Goal 5: "Develop and Maintain a Community Policing Plan."

Economic Development

Goal 1: "The City of Sand Springs will strive to promote local commerce, trade, and commodities by strengthening working relationships with the local/regional Chamber of Commerce, existing businesses, and institutions."

Goal 2: "Aggressively pursue new local, regional, or national restaurant and retail businesses."

Goal 3: "Identify and complete projects that will beautify Sand Springs, assisting with marketing and economic development."

Goal 4: "Evaluate and consider the acquisition of real estate for future development purposes."

Goal 5: "Encourage and engage Subdivision and Multi-Family Developers/Developments."

Goal 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."

Goal 7: "Sand Springs will have a strong independent local economy that compliments the surrounding region but is not dependent on it."

Chapter V: Future Development Plan

"The Plan is a policy document that lays out the blueprint of how the community should grow over time and where certain uses should be placed relative to their intensity. Other factors such as underlying zoning patterns, adjoining communities land use plans, and future capital improvements also played a role in determining where the land use categories were placed. However, the plan is a plan and is not inflexible or concrete. From time to time, there will be certain uses that are proposed that will merit additional evaluation and create the possibility for Plan amendments."

Sand Springs Round Up Club petition hopes to reverse eviction from City park

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The Sand Springs City Council moved forward Monday night with a plan to evict the Sand Springs Round Up Club (SSRUC) from River City Park and to demolish the rodeo arena. Nearly two dozen individuals from the SSRUC turned out to observe the regular meeting. Two spoke in defense of the organization, but the Council voted unanimously to confirm a unanimous recommendation from the Parks Advisory Board.

In a staff report presented to the Council, the Parks Department reported that “the situation has eroded at the Sand Springs Round Up Club’s (rodeo) facility to a point where they are no longer viable…with near record high use in the park…the time has come to dedicate the approximate 3 acres of space to future ‘higher and best use.’ Additionally, the City can no longer support the expenditure of public (taxpayer) dollars to support the club’s activities. In the short term, mixed use, multipurpose sports fields are planned there.”

Richard House, president of the club since January, spoke in protest of the decision. “We’re working, we’re trying to grow this club. This is a partnership. This is a group that’s been around for 71 years…we have to work with the City and with the Park’s leadership. The club is financially successful. We’re not insecure, we’re a viable club. We have 28 events on our schedule. We were busy driving that membership, creating new events, driving more participation.”

House and City leaders were at odds on almost all facts of the situation. Mayor Mike Burdge objected to the age of the organization, its level of participation, the state of the grounds, and the amount of time that the organization has been on a downturn.

According to the staff report, “At the October 2016 meeting of the Parks Advisory Board (PAB), all clubs provided reports on their activities. Concerns were raised about the SSRUC’s lack of events, attendance and maintenance. They were asked to ‘step it up.’ At the April 4, 2017 PAB meeting…the PAB moved to allow the club approximately 90 additional days (including a big rodeo event on Memorial Day) to show good numbers, statistics, improve maintenance and the overall look of the grounds and more.”

House stated that the organization was given only 60 days, not 90, and that they nearly doubled their membership during that period. Mayor Burdge said that the problems with the club have been going on for years.

According to House, “the Use Agreement specifically states that the City will maintain the safety of the facility. That stopped happening a year ago.” He also alleged that Parks Director Grant Gerondale inspected the bleachers just a half hour before the Andy Downs Memorial Day Rodeo, during which a spectator partially fell through a rotten board in the stands. Gerondale denied performing any sort of inspection and said he was only there for a few minutes to photograph the crowd. He stated that it is the responsibility of the SSRUC to inform the Parks Department of any maintenance needs.

Section 4 of the Use Agreement states that “The City shall maintain grounds to ensure public safety.” It also says that the SSRUC “shall be responsible for any damages occurring to City property that are a result of USER volunteers, coaches, players, board members, or by the general public during USER events. “ According to City finance records, the bleachers are 35 years old and are fully depreciated.

House also claimed that Gerondale’s tally of 121 attendees was taken half an hour prior to the rodeo and did not accurately reflect on the number who showed up right at event time.

The PAB met on June 5, 2017 and voted 7-0-0 in favor of terminating the agreement. The City Council also voted 7-0-0 in favor of approving the request by the PAB. The SSRUC will be given till October 31 to finish their season, then will have until December 31 to remove all of their property from the facility. Council also approved up to $10,000 to demolish the facility if needed.

Despite the unanimous vote, the SSRUC has begun circulating a petition on change.org to save the arena. Organized by Jared Brown, the petition has garnered 637 supporters at press time with a goal of 1,000.

“Sand Springs has a heritage of rodeos in this arena and there are plenty of citizens that would like to see that tradition continue,” states the petition. “I am hoping that this petition will help communicate how important it is to the people of Sand Springs.”

Click here to view the petition.

Sand Springs City Council to vote on removing Round Up Club from River City Parks

The Sand Springs City Council will meet in a regular monthly meeting Monday night at 7:00 p.m. in the City Municipal Building. Immediately following the Council meeting, the Sand Springs Municipal Authority will meet in the same room. Council and Municipal meetings are open to public attendance and commentary.

One item on the Council's Consent Agenda is a recommendation from the Parks Advisory Board to terminate a Use Agreement with the Sand Springs Round Up Club (RUC).

The RUC is a nonprofit organization originally founded northwest of Sand Springs on Shell Creek Road in 1946. It was relocated to River City in 1971 during the administration of City Manager Royce Hunter.

According to the staff report filed with the City Council agenda, "the situation has eroded at the Sand Springs Round Up Club's (rodeo) facility to a point where they are no longer viable." 

"At the October 2016 meeting of the Park's Advisory Board (PAB), all clubs provided reports on their activities. Concerns were raised about the SSRUC's lack of events, attendance, and maintenance. They were asked to 'step it up.'"

"At the April 4, 2017 PAB meeting staff requested a notice to terminate the Use Agreement with the SSRUC. The PAB moved to allow the club approximately 90 additional days (including a big rodeo event on Memorial Day) to show good numbers; statistics, improve maintenance and the overall look of the grounds and more."

"The Memorial Weekend (Andy Downs) rodeo event was uneventful, with 121 counted attendees in the stands and a mere dozen more in the arena."

The Parks Board cited the growing success of other park tenants, most notably the West Side Alliance (WSA) and Sand Springs Soccer Club (SSSC). The annual WSA Cup regularly packs out both River City Parks and the West Bank Sports Complex in Tulsa.

"With near record high use in the park; with WSA Soccer Cup performing at the highest level to date and with requests by SSYFootball leaders and more for additional space the time has come to dedicate the approximate 3 acres of space to future 'higher and best use.' Additionally, the City can no longer support the expenditure of public (taxpayer) dollars to support the club's activities. In the short term, mixed use, multipurpose sports fields are planned there."

The Parks Board voted unanimously to recommend terminating the Use Agreement Contract no later than October 31, 2017. City Council will make the final decision Monday evening.

If the Use Agreement Contract is terminated, the RUC will have to remove all of their property from the facility and the City-owned property will be declared as surplus. Declaring the property as surplus will allow the City to demolish the the facility and auction off any valuable materials.

Other items on the agenda include:

• Presentation of Mayoral Proclamation to Cheyenne Walden, recognizing her unprecedented success as a Charles Page High School Cross Country runner.
• Acceptance of a $2 million check from Mike and Pat Case to be applied to the River City Park Improvements Project.
• Purchase of four Police Pursuit Units for $99,474.00.
• Appointments to various city boards and commissions.
• Approval of a complete update to the City Comprehensive Plan.
• Renaming of City Garden Park as Inez Kirk Garden Park.
• Renaming of Inez Kirk Soccer Complex as the Roger S. Bush Soccer Complex.
• Adopting the 2017 Sand Springs Policing Plan.
• Approval of November 14, 2017 as the election date for the 2017 General Obligation Bond election.

This Week in Sand Springs (6/26 - 7/2/17)

Monday

• 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs City Council Meeting.
  • 100 East Broadway Street, Sand Springs.
  • Presentation of Mayoral Proclamation recognizing Cheyenne Walden.
  • Proposal to rename Inez Kirk Soccer Complex and City Garden Park.
  • Proposal to adopt 2017 Sand Springs Policing Plan.
  • Proposal to remove Sand Springs Round-Up Club from River City Park.
  • Click here to view full agenda.
• Sand Springs Municipal Authority Meeting.
  • Immediately following City Council Meeting.
  • Click here to view full agenda.
• Summer Bingo at American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17.
  • Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
  • Minis start at 6:15 p.m. ($7 for 7 games).
  • Regular session at 7:00 p.m. ($26 for a regular pack or $15 for a half pack).
  • 500 North Main Street, Sand Springs.

Tuesday

• 10:30 a.m. Preschool Storytime with Miss Alice at Charles Page Library.
  • 551 East 4th Street, Sand Springs.
• 11:30 a.m. Tulsa's Channel 8 Reads at Charles Page Library.
  • 551 East 4th Street, Sand Springs.
• 6:00 p.m. Walnut Ridge Neighborhood HOA Meeting - Pratt Library.
  • 3219 South 113th West Avenue, Sand Springs.

Wednesday

• 1:30 p.m. Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting - Guild Mortgage.
  • Location to-be-decided.

Thursday

• Summer Bingo at American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17.
  • Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
  • Minis start at 6:15 p.m. ($7 for 7 games).
  • Regular session at 7:00 p.m. ($26 for a regular pack or $15 for a half pack).

Friday

• 6:30 p.m. Halo Jordan live at 5 West Outpost - Free Concert.
  • 5 West 41st Street, Sand Springs.
• 6:30 p.m. 600 Point Weekend at Sand Springs BMX - Friday Night Lights Single Points Race.
  • 2600 South River City Park Road, Sand Springs.
• 9:30 p.m. Edgewater RV Park - Keystone Lake Independence Day Fireworks Show.
  • 676 Edgewater Drive, Cleveland.

Saturday

• 10:30 a.m. 600 Point Weekend at Sand Springs BMX - State Race Qualifier - Double Points.
  • 2600 South River City Park Road, Sand Springs.
• 6:30 p.m. Halo Jordan live at 5 West Outpost - Free Concert.
  • 5 West 41st Street, Sand Springs.
• 9:00 p.m. Independence Day Fireworks Show - Pier 51 Marina - Keystone Lake
  • 1926 South Highway 151, Sand Springs.

Sunday

• 10:30 p.m. 600 Point Weekend at Sand Springs BMX - Gold Cup Qualifier - Triple Points
  • 2600 South River City Park Road, Sand Springs.

European Car Show returns to downtown Sand Springs after five-year hiatus

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

The Jaguar Club of Tulsa resurrected their annual EuroMotor Extravaganza in downtown Sand Springs this weekend after a five-year hiatus. The event drew nearly fifty entries and cordoned off the Triangle through much of the afternoon.

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

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

This year the club picked up right where they left off, packing out the downtown parking with Fiats, Volvos, MGs, and more. A gorgeous blue sky with a slight breeze and high of 85 degrees made for near-perfect conditions for the festivities. The Sand Springs Animal Shelter was the recipient of the event's proceeds. 

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

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

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

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

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

POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat to hold Wine & Jazz Festival on Labor Day Weekend

In recognition of Jazz Appreciation Month, POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat is thrilled to announce a return for the third year of the POSTOAK Wine & Jazz Festival. Presented by Blue Sky Bank, this year’s festival will be held Labor Day weekend, Sept. 1-3.

“The Wine & Jazz Festival continues to provide a unique experience for residents and travelers in northeast Oklahoma.” said Trisha Kerkstra, general manager at POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat. “Last year, we added a wine/jazz dinner on Friday night and a champagne jazz brunch on Sunday. They were so well received, we decided to add a few more surprises for this year. Thanks to our sponsors and the fabulous growing jazz talent in Tulsa, we are delighted to provide performance opportunities for professional and student musicians.”

Headlining the event is the lively 17-piece Swunky Face Big Band Orchestra, featuring acclaimed Tulsa vocalist Branjae.

“With Branjae’s captivating stage persona, coupled with the swing sound of Swunky Face, we’re confident festival goers will find it hard to stay in their lawn chairs,” said Kerkstra. “It promises to be a spirited and entertaining festival all around.” 

The Wine & Jazz Festival is supported by VisitTulsa, the city’s convention and visitor’s bureau housed at the Tulsa Regional Chamber, as well as the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts & Culture (Tulsa FMAC).

“In addition to attracting national events to the Tulsa area, we also help cultivate and develop promising home-grown attractions,” said Ray Hoyt, president of VisitTulsa and Tulsa FMAC. “The POSTOAK Wine & Jazz Festival has already proven to be a runaway success, and we’re excited about the potential this event has to draw visitors from across the region.”

The Zuits, a high-energy swing, jazz and funk band, will kick off the music Saturday at 4 p.m. Also performing is bluesy jazz band Darrell Christopher and the Ingredients, the expressive Cynthia Simmons Quintet, and the hot jazz of Mischievous Swing, reminiscent of the sounds of French cafes and Gypsy camps.

Tickets are $15 each, with free admission for those 17 and under. Attendees will be able to purchase wine from some of Oklahoma’s best wineries and enjoy a variety of local food trucks. Additional events include a wine and jazz dinner Friday night and a champagne brunch Sunday morning.

Tickets and a variety of packages, including accommodations and meals, are on sale now through POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat’s website or by calling 918-425-2112.

Nestled in the Osage Hills, POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat is located ten minutes from downtown Tulsa. For more information on POSTOAK, visit postoaklodge.com.

POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat opens new Willow Cafe

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony for the new Willow Cafe at POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat in northwest Tulsa Friday morning.

POSTOAK lies just a mile outside the Sand Springs fenceline in the Osage Hills area at 5323 West 31st Street North, Tulsa.

While the lodge specializes in large events like weddings, reunions, and corporate retreats, they are also available for single night and weekend rentals for "leisure guests."

The Willow Cafe is the latest in a long list of amenities including a year-round outdoor swimming pool with two hot tubs, horseshoes, putting greens, croquet, basketball, volleyball, fishing, and a zip line tour with six lines totaling 3,865 feet. The facility is situated on more than 1,000 acres of hiking grounds.

POSTOAK is just ten minutes from downtown Tulsa, surrounded by rolling hills with bicycle lanes, and a short drive from the Gilcrease Museum and Tulsa Botanical Gardens.

"Our mission is to deliver first class service everywhere, every day," said General Manager Trisha Kerkstra. "We have a vision to be Oklahoma's number-one desired lodging destination. We try to work together for the good of our guests."

The Cafe is open from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. It carries baked goods, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, ice cream, alcohol, and coffee products.

POSTOAK will also be hosting a Labor Day Weekend Wine & Jazz Festival. Tickets are $15 for adults, with free admittance for children 17 years and younger.

14th Annual Rotary Bass Tournament returns to Keystone Lake this weekend

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The Fourteenth Annual Sand Springs Rotary Bass Tournament is this weekend on Keystone Lake and you aren't likely to find a better excuse to go fishing. 

Rotary Club claims a motto of "Service Above Self" and has a ninety-year history of meeting both the local and the international community's needs through student loans, scholarships, donations, and fundraisers.

In recent years they have held fundraisers for Sand Springs Community Services, Salvation Army, Red Cross, Boy Scouts, the Tulsa Boys Home, Senior Celebration, Relay for Life, Sertoma Club, Special Olympics, and the Sand Springs Home. 

The bass tournament is sponsored by Bill Knight Automotive and Collision Repair, and is held at the Prairie View Boat Ramp in Mannford. There is a $100 entry fee per two-person team, and a $1,000 Big Bass prize sponsored by Blackbeard Marine. Smaller prizes include marine oil, hitches, gas, reels, tackle, t-shirts, and more. There will also be free hamburgers, hot dogs, soda, and beer.

The bass tournament is just one of many annual fundraisers put on by the Rotarians. They also hold an annual bean dinner, chili cookoff, 5K Run, and golf tournament. 

In just three months, Rotary Club will host the Tenth Annual Downhill Derby soapbox car race in downtown Sand Springs. Downhill Derby offers a day of family-friendly fun that attracts hundreds of spectators and participants every year.

For more information on the fishing tournament, contact Mike Luttrell, Tournament Director, at 918.633.0666 or 918.526.2510.

Click here to register for the event.

Parade of Homes comes to Sand Springs this week

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One of four Stone Creek houses featured in this year's Parade of Homes.

The annual Parade of Homes has returned to the Tulsa area, and Sand Springs has five open houses this week.

Presented by the Tulsa chapter of the Home Builders Association (HBA), the Parade of Homes showcases 150 new homes in the Tulsa Metropolitan area at price ranges from $150,000 to nearly $1,600,000.

Not only can you view all of the latest building trends, you can also speak directly to the builders themselves.

Sand Springs has five homes open for viewing: one in Shadow Creek and four in Stone Creek Estates.

Concept Builders, Inc. is a Tulsa-based company with two homes for viewing. Their $465,000 two-story home at 160 N. Old North Pl. features three bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 2955 sq. ft., a three-car garage, a game room, and a large covered patio with an outdoor fireplace and kitchen. Interior design by Katie Ridgway, floorplan by Distinctive Designs, and landscaping by Jason McDermitt Landscaping.

The Concept team also has a $199,900 one-story in Stone Creek. The 1695 sq. ft. house has a two-car garage, three bedrooms, two baths, and a covered patio. Located at 204 W. 54th Ct.

Gibson Homes, Inc. is a Broken Arrow-based company with three homes for viewing, all in Stone Creek Estates. Homes range from $189,000 to $199,000 and 1688 sq. ft. to 1922 sq. ft. Each home is one story, three bedrooms, and two baths. 5318 Skylane Dr. has a three-car garage, 203 W. 54th Ct. has a study, and 5321 Skylane Dr. has a dining room. Each home also has a covered porch and patio.

WSB Homes, LLC is the only Sand Springs-based builder in the Parade of Homes, though the home they are showcasing this year is located in Holley Heights in Tulsa. Designed by William Bell with landscaping by Daniel Lawn Care, this two-story 2552 sq. ft. home has three bedrooms and 2.5 baths. A covered patio, dining room, two-car garage, game room, and walkout attic storage are just some of the features in this state-of-the-art home in the Tulsa School District. Located at 1719 W. Pine Pl. with a price of $324,900.

Homes are open through the 25th of June, from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m.

7th Annual EuroMotor Extravaganza returns to Sand Springs this weekend

The Jaguar Club of Tulsa will host the 2017 Seventh Annual EuroMotor Extravaganza this weekend in downtown Sand Springs. The three day festivities will be held in and around the downtown Triangle Park, with the main show being held on Saturday, June 24th. 

There will be a 5:00 p.m. registration for this event at the Hampton Inn the day before, on the 23rd, and a Tailgate Party with BBQ to follow.

There will also be an 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. registration on the day of. This time frame also includes setup of the cars. At 10:30 a.m. all cars will be in place and there will be Participants Choice judging from then until 1:30 p.m. After the car show there will be an awards banquet at St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Sand Springs from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

It is $30 to register one car and any additional cars are $10 each. The awards dinner is $20 per person. A link to the registration form can be found here.

This car show is in benefit of the Sand Springs Animal Shelter. There will be a silent auction going on during the show, all proceeds from it will go to the animal shelter. To donate to this auction please contact the shelter at 918-246-2543 or animalcontrol@sandspringsok.org 

This Week in Sand Springs (6/19 - 6/25/17)

Monday

• 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Parade of Homes 
  • 160 N. Old North Pl. Sand Springs
  • 204 W. 54th Ct. Sand Springs
  • 5318 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 5321 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 1719 W. Pine Pl. Tulsa
• 4:00 p.m Planning Commission Meeting - Sand Springs Municipal building. 
  • Click here for the full agenda. 
• 5:00 p.m. Summer BINGO - American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17
  • 5:00 p.m. Doors Open
  • 6:15 p.m. Minis ($7 for 7 games)
  • 7:00 p.m. Regular Session ($26 for regular pack or $15 for half pack)
• 6:00 p.m Board of Adjustment Meeting - Sand Springs Municipal building. 
  • Click here for the full agenda. 

Tuesday

• 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Parade of Homes 
  • 160 N. Old North Pl. Sand Springs
  • 204 W. 54th Ct. Sand Springs
  • 5318 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 5321 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 1719 W. Pine Pl. Tulsa
• 6:00 p.m Museum Trust Authority meeting - Sand Springs Museum. 
  • Click here for the full agenda. 

Wednesday

• 9:00 a.m - 7:00 p.m USAW Junior Dual Nationals - Cox Business Center. 
  • Click here for the full event schedule.
• 10:30 a.m. Music with Will Parker - Charles Page Library
• 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Parade of Homes 
  • 160 N. Old North Pl. Sand Springs
  • 204 W. 54th Ct. Sand Springs
  • 5318 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 5321 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 1719 W. Pine Pl. Tulsa
• 4:00 p.m Development Authority Meeting - Sand Springs Municipal building. 
  • Click here for the full agenda. 

Thursday

• 9:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m USAW Junior Dual Nationals - Cox Business Center.
  • Click here for full event schedule. 
• 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Parade of Homes 
  • 160 N. Old North Pl. Sand Springs
  • 204 W. 54th Ct. Sand Springs
  • 5318 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 5321 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 1719 W. Pine Pl. Tulsa
• 5:00 p.m. Summer BINGO - American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17
  • 5:00 p.m. Doors Open
  • 6:15 p.m. Minis ($7 for 7 games)
  • 7:00 p.m. Regular Session ($26 for regular pack or $15 for half pack)
• 7:00 p.m. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) - Tulsa PAC
  • Presented by the Sand Springs Community Theater

Friday

• 8:00 a.m - 8:00 p.m USAW Junior Dual Nationals - Cox Business Center. 
  • Click here for full event schedule. 
• 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Parade of Homes 
  • 160 N. Old North Pl. Sand Springs
  • 204 W. 54th Ct. Sand Springs
  • 5318 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 5321 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 1719 W. Pine Pl. Tulsa
• 6:30 p.m. Halo Jordan performing - 5 West Outpost
• 7:00 p.m. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) - Tulsa PAC
  • Presented by the Sand Springs Community Theater

Saturday 

• 9:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m USAW Junior Dual Nationals - Cox Business Center
  • Click here for full event schedule. 

• 10:30 a.m Euro-Expo car show - Downtown Sand Springs Triangle

• 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Parade of Homes 

  • 160 N. Old North Pl. Sand Springs
  • 204 W. 54th Ct. Sand Springs
  • 5318 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 5321 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 1719 W. Pine Pl. Tulsa
• 6:00 p.m. Work Day & Open Ride Night - Sand Springs Round Up Club
  • Bring your horses, weed eaters, lawn mowers, and elbow grease!
• 6:30 p.m Comedy Night - 5 West Outpost
  • Bob and Alta Courtney, Pastor Pudge, Sister Sludge, and Redneck Revival, with Mark Staggs and Halo Jordan. 
  • Free music and comedy in a family-friendly Christian atmosphere.
• 7:00 p.m. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) - Tulsa PAC
  • Presented by the Sand Springs Community Theater

Sunday

• 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Parade of Homes
  • 160 N. Old North Pl. Sand Springs
  • 204 W. 54th Ct. Sand Springs
  • 5318 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 5321 Skylane Dr. Sand Springs
  • 1719 W. Pine Pl. Tulsa
• 2:00 p.m. Play Day - Sand Springs Round Up Club
• 2:00 p.m. Olympic Day Free Race - Sand Springs BMX
  • Try out the sport of BMX for *NO CHARGE* at Tulsa's only BMX 
• 7:00 p.m. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) - Tulsa PAC
  • Presented by the Sand Springs Community Theater

City of Sand Springs announces firework permit sales from June 12 to July 4

Sand Springs, OK- The City of Sand Springs announced Tuesday that fireworks permits will go on sale for $20 each, beginning Monday, June 12th . Permits can be purchased in person or online this year.

Citizens who wish to purchase a permit in person may visit the Fire Administration office at City Hall during regular office hours from Monday, June 12th through Monday, July 3rd. City office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Fire Administration will remain open for lunch hour purchases during the week of Monday, June 26th through Friday, June 30th.

“This will be the second year we are offering a convenient way for our citizens to buy permits,” said Sand Springs Fire Marshal Stan Smith. “Online permit sales will be available through noon on July 4th .”

Those purchasing a permit online can visit the City’s Web site to find the link for online sales. Online purchases begin Monday, June 12th through noon on July 4th.

“Online sales are open all hours and weekends, making it an easier option for many citizens that can’t stop by City Hall,” said Smith.

City fireworks permits must be purchased by an adult age 18 or older that serves as the responsible party for activities at an individual residence. Permits are non-transferrable. Residential streets can be used as a fireworks discharge area, provided residents do not hinder traffic and clean up any debris.

Permits will be valid for July 3rd and 4th between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. and only applies to Class 1.4G Common Fireworks. The owner of the permit must supervise minors at all times during the discharge of fireworks. 

The pre-set court fine for illegally discharging of fireworks in the city limits is $154. However, a maximum fine of $500 plus court costs can be imposed for serious or repetitive violations. Fees collected from permits offset overtime costs by police and fire officials who patrol neighborhoods to assure fireworks are being discharged responsibly with a valid permit.

For further information about fireworks permits, call the Sand Springs Fire Administration Office at 918-246-2548.

This Week in Sand Springs

Monday

• 12:00 p.m. Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Open Forum
  • Tulsa Technology Center, Sand Springs campus.
• 6:30 p.m. Parks Advisory Board Meeting
  • Click here to view the full agenda. 
• 7:00 p.m. Board of Education Meeting
  • Coin of Excellence will be presented to Shannon Chapman.
  • Sandite Spirit Award will be presented to Sylvia Fooshee. 
  • Garfield Elementary students will do a presentation of "Shark Tank".
  • Click here to view the full agenda for this meeting.  

Thursday

• 10:30 a.m. Monty Harper performing at the Charles Page Library. 
  • Click here for the full event information. 
• 2:00 p.m. Choogie Kingfisher at Charles Page Library.
  • Traditional Cherokee flute music, myths and legends. 
  • Click here for the full event information. 
• 5:30 p.m. Airport Advisory Board Meeting
  • Click here to view the full agenda.

Friday

• 6:30 p.m. Halo Jordan performing at 5 West Outpost.
• 7:00 p.m. Charles Page High School Class of 1967 - 50 Year Reunion
  • Click here for the full event information. 

Saturday 

• 12:30 p.m. Charles Page High School Class of 1967 - 50 Year Reunion
  • Click here for the full event information 
• 6:30 p.m. Halo Jordan performing at 5 West Outpost.

Harper's Hut demonstrates true corporate citizenship and culture of giving

Jarrett Sabelo serves snow with a smile at the 2016 Harper's Hut Summer Kickoff. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

William Nozak wasn't born or raised a Sandite, and before 2014 he didn't have any ties to the Sand Springs area. A graduate of Victory Christian Center and Oral Roberts University, Nozak dabbled in a number of fields before ending up in shaved ice. To an outsider, there's no apparent reason why he wound up in Sand Springs.

With a Masters in Business Administration, Nozak taught at Tulsa Community College, Platt College, Career Point College, and Kaplan University before serving four years as the Director of Education at the American Institute of Medical Technology. He self-produced three albums, owned a disc golf store, and owned three Oxi Fresh franchises in Northern California.

So how does a singing professor with really clean carpet end up running a snow cone stand in Sand Springs? He cites the Holy Spirit as his influence.

Of course, as an experienced entrepreneur, he did his homework. "I had a war report on my wall of every snow cone stand in Tulsa. I didn't want to go to an area already being served," says Nozak. But despite having lease opportunities in growing cities like Owasso and Broken Arrow, where he was living at the time, he still found himself opening shop in Sand Springs just a mile and a half down the road from an established competitor with a decade of experience.

Within a month of opening, Harper's Hut Shaved Ice was voted the "Best in the World" by readers of the Tulsa World. Since then, his business has expanded to Mannford and Glenpool and he has opened successful coffee and marketing businesses as well.

Despite having two little ones to take care of, Nozak still finds plenty of time and resources to give back to the community that has supported his businesses these past three years.

Every year, the Hut hosts a Summer Kickoff, a Summer Block Party, and a Classic Car Show. All three are free and open to the public. Both the Summer Kickoff and the Block Party feature inflatable jump houses, obstacle courses, games, toys, prizes, face painting, food, and, of course, snow cones.

The Hut isn't just a snow cone stand to Sand Springs, it's a neighbor. It's a family member. It's everywhere. It can be found at Sandite football games, at Chillin & Grillin Festival, at Herbal Affair, in the River City Parks concession stand, in Terry's Classic Coneys.

You can have the Hut at your birthday, or have your birthday at the Hut. They cater weddings and other celebrations. They have ice chests full of flavored snow that you can order, they do snow ball fights for Church that Matters and other organizations, and they do free summer movie nights on their inflatable big screen. 

Most importantly, they've been a valuable contributor to the Sand Springs community these past three years and they have even bigger plans on the horizon for the town that they've adopted. Since opening their doors three years ago, the Hut has raised more than $25,000 for local charities, schools, and other organizations. 

Harper's Hut makes their values clear in their mission statement, "to improve our communities by providing affordable desserts, family-fun events, and by supporting non-profit organizations promoting family, and Christian values."

This Saturday is the 2017 Summer Kickoff, and once again Harper's Hut is putting their money where their mouth is. This year 100% of sales will be donated to James Mission, a Tulsa charity that benefits foster children, orphans, widows, and displaced families. As always, the event will be filled with free festivities like inflatables, games, face painting, music, and giveaways. 

Click here for more information on the Summer Kickoff!

Harper's Hut Summer Kickoff to honor lost Sand Springs foster kids

The Harper's Hut Summer Kickoff is back for the third straight year and it promises to be as big as ever!

Harper's Hut Shaved Ice and Java opened in Sand Springs in 2014, and for the past three years they have kicked off the summer season with one of the biggest free parties around.

Every year there are inflatables, games, music, face-painters, and tons of great giveaways. Not only will Harper's be giving away "Sno Yo" cards for free snow cones, but they'll also be giving away "Cold Cards" for free shaved ice all summer long! This year there will also be a petting zoo and a classic cop car on scene for photos. 

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Green Country Federal Credit Union, Battman Collision Repair, Master Lube & Car Wash, Sand Springs Autosource, and Integrity Pest Management are all contributing to the festivities. 

In the past the snow cones have been free during the Summer Kickoff. This year you'll have to pay for your snow, but it's going to a good cause. 100% of shaved ice sales will be donated to James Mission.

James Mission is a 501c3 nonprofit organization with locations in Tulsa and Nowata that helps provide care for orphans, widows, foster children, and displaced families. The Resource Center at James Mission provides clothing, shoes, toiletries, toys, and other household items. They have sizes ranging from preemie to 18 years old for boys and girls, summer and winter. 

In addition to the physical needs they meet, they also offer a place for biological parents to have supervised visits with their children in DHS custody and offer connections, resources, and training for long-term relief. On average, they provide for 60 children a week.

According to Oklahomafosters.org, more than 9,500 children in the State of Oklahoma are in DHS custody, and approximately 2,000 of those children are waiting to be adopted. 

In 2014 a Sand Springs police officer and his wife lost a two-year old girl they were fostering in an accidental drowning. This past year, a Glenpool officer who lives in Sand Springs and his wife also lost a child. Harper's reached out to those families to see how they could help and were put in contact with James Mission.

Harper's Hut aims to make as big of a contribution as possible to help James Mission care for these kids and wants to invite anyone and everyone to attend their party. The Summer Kickoff is being held in memory of Teagyn Rose and Corey, the two children who were lost. Harper's has previously named a snow cone after Teagyn, called the "Busy Rose."

This year's event will be held Saturday, June 3rd from 12:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Harper's Hut is located at 1124 East Charles Page Boulevard in Sand Springs, next to the Cinema 8.

City Council approves improvements to town infrastructure, discusses latest accomplishments

The Sand Springs City Council met in a regular meeting Monday evening at the City Municipal Building. Outgoing Board of Adjustment Chairman Randy Beesley was presented with a Mayoral Proclamation, Marketing Manager Kasey St. John provided a presentation regarding the Sand Springs Marketing department, and numerous appointments were made to City Boards.

SEE RELATED: Board of Adjustment Chairman Randy Beesley receives Mayoral Proclamation

St. John expressed pleasure with the success of the City's goals for the past year. The City recently held the Second Annual Ancient 5K at Keystone Ancient Forest, participated in the Tulsa Home and Garden Show, and hosted the 28th Annual Herbal Affair and Festival with more than 20,000 attendees. A self-guided "Historic Tour" has been created on the City of Sand Springs website, and physical signage will be placed throughout the city by the end of the fiscal year. 

St. John set a goal to have a facebook following equal to 10% of the city's population by the end of the year--a feat which they easily surpassed with more than 3,500 followers at press time. A Sandite Pride News story shared on the City's facebook page is currently their most viewed post of all time. City officials have attended 18 major events this year to promote Sand Springs. The City is also working to redesign and relaunch the official website. A promotion website, SeeSandSprings.com, was launched this past year to help attract businesses and developers.

City Council unanimously approved $100,000 for use in installing a "Public Safety Hardened Room" in the Case Community Center. The funding for the project is part of a public safety sales tax that went into effect in January. 

Council unanimously approved $25,000 for use in rehabilitating the Shell Lake Dam, which is currently approaching the century mark in age.

Council unanimously approved $31,085.68 to continue partnering with the Metropolitan Environment Trust (M.e.t.) for the 2017-2018 fiscal year. The City has utilized M.e.t. services for more than thirty years. M.e.t. accepts fluorescent and CFL light bulbs, oil-based paints and paint thinner, flammable liquids, lawn chemicals, automotive fluids, cooking oil/grease, aerosols, household and car batteries, household cleaners, and pool chemicals at no additional charge to City residents.

Council unanimously approved a request from CHC Kirkwood LIHTC LP for a Resolution of Support for a tax credit to rehabilitate a 76-unit housing development located at 400 E. 6th Street. Kirkwood Senior Apartments are a Multifamily complex for elderly and handicapped residents, located next to Charles Page High School. The tax credit, if approved, will come from State funds and will not affect City finances directly. The complex hopes to invest $3 million in property and housing improvements.

Council unanimously approved the use of $93,767.31 in Vision funding to purchase and install ten LED colored lights beneath the USHWY 412 overpass to "bridge" the downtown community with the new River West development. 

Board Appointments:

• Mike Burdge, Brian Jackson, and Patty Dixon were appointed to the Council Appointment Committee for a one-year term.
• Mike Burdge, Jim Spoon, and Patty Dixon were appointed to the Council Finance and Development Committee for a one-year term.
• Jim Spoon and Christine Hamner were appointed to the Council Legislative Committee for a one-year term.
• Beau Wilson, Phil Nollan, and Christine Hamner were appointed to the Council Public Works Advisory Committee.
• Mike Burdge was appointed to the INCOG Board of Directors for a one-year term with Elizabeth Gray as an alternate.
• Mike Burdge was appointed to the INCOG General Assembly for a one-year term with Elizabeth Gray as an alternate.
• Mike Burdge was appointed to the INCOG Legislative Consortium for a one-year term with Elizabeth Gray as an alternate.
• Brian Jackson was appointed to the INCOG Tulsa Metropolitan Area Transportation Policy Committee for a one-year term with Derek Hamil (sp?) as an alternate.
• Cathy Burdge and Richard "Rick" Barnett were appointed to the Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board for a three-year term. 

In other news:

• Sand Springs Fire Department Driver Ray Hall recently won the 2017 Mountain Bike National Championship. He competed in a 50-mile long course with major elevation changes and rough terrain.
• The City of Sand Springs received their 27th consecutive Government Finance Officers' Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.
• According to Finance Director Kelly Lamberson, the City is "doing well with our spending, remaining below projections by 16.1 percent."
• Sand Springs Police Sargent Jason McGinnis was named the Rotary Officer of the Year. McGinnis is a U.S. Navy vet, who was in charge of 50 caliber machine guns. According to Police Chief Mike Carter, he is a driving force behind Special Olympics funding and the Sand Springs leg of the torch run.
• Rumble strips were recently installed on 41st Street between Prattville and Berryhill at a cost of $18,000. 
• Captain Jeremy Wade was named the Rotary Firefighter of the Year. According to Fire Chief Mike Wood, "(Wade) is a phenomenal employee, always goes above and beyond." He has been with the SSFD for nearly sixteen years.
• The Fire Department recently hired Sand Springs local Zachary Mosley. "(Mosley) is going to be a great rookie for us. He hit the ground running this morning and we're glad to have him," said Wood.
• Sand Springs recently received an improved Insurance Service Office Class Two rating that places the department in the top 1% of Oklahoma communities and in the top 2.8% in the nation.

Board of Adjustment Chairman Randy Beesley receives Mayoral Proclamation

Board of Adjustment Chairman Randy Beesley (Left) is presented a proclamation from Mayor Mike Burdge (Right).

Outgoing Sand Springs Board of Adjustment Chairman Randy Beesley was recognized with a Mayoral Proclamation at Monday night's City Council Meeting.

Beesley was first appointed to the Board of Adjustment in September of 2005 and has chaired the board since November of 2010.

Board members serve in a volunteer capacity and are unable to receive compensation. They meet on the third Monday of each month and review requests for variances and special exceptions to zoning code.

According to the proclamation, "Beesley has served as a Board of Adjustment Member in a dignified manner demonstrating and reflecting the high character and moral integrity needed to perform the duties of the position to ensure that strict impartiality was maintained to preserve the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Sand Springs."

Mayor Mike Burdge added that "The Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission are the two hardest boards to serve on, even harder than City Council."

Donate blood with OBI this summer for free admission to Safari Joe's H2O water park

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Don’t Roam, Give Close to Home: Keep it Local by Giving Blood with Oklahoma Blood Institute May 17 – August 31.

Oklahoma Blood Institute is urging blood donors to “Keep It Local” by giving blood close to home. Oklahoma Blood Institute is proud to partner with Safari Joe’s H2O Water Park, featuring Reptile Rush Slides & Rapids Water Roller Coaster as well as reptile and animal attractions.

Between May 17 and August 31, each donor who gives blood at Oklahoma Blood Institute’s donor center and mobile drives will receive a voucher for two to Safari Joe’s H2O Water Park in Tulsa.* 

Donors will also receive a free “Keep It Local” t-shirt featuring a unique design of Oklahoma’s state animal, the bison. Healthy adults, age 16 and older, can give blood.**

“There is no substitute for blood for patients who need life-sustaining treatments,” said John Armitage, M.D., Oklahoma Blood Institute president and CEO. “Donors who give in Oklahoma can be sure that their blood donations will save the lives of their own neighbors, friends or family members.”

Sand Springs musician Morgan Ganem has residency at Safari Joe's this summer and will be performing more than 30 dates this season. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

As the region’s leading blood provider, Oklahoma Blood Institute relies solely on volunteer blood donors to meet the needs of patients at more than 160 hospitals and medical facilities statewide. Those with negative blood types are especially urged to give. Blood can be donated every 56 days. Platelets can be given as often as every seven days, up to 24 times a year.

If donors opt not to take the t-shirt, funds will be donated to Global Blood Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization helping secure supplies and bloodmobiles for blood centers in developing countries.

Appointments to give blood are not required but can be made by visiting obi.org or calling (877) 340-8777.

*Vouchers good for two free water park admissions. Vouchers are valid until end of 2017 swim season. Must provide photo I.D. and proof of blood donation on voucher to redeem.

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

CPHS junior model Rianne Ross walks in Flaunt Fashion Show

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Left to right: Jaclyn Swanson, Morgan Miller, and Brooke Anthony prepare Rianne Ross before the show.

Charles Page High School junior Rianne Ross walked in the Flaunt Fashion Show Saturday night at the She Theater and Lounge in downtown Tulsa. The Flaunt Fashion show was put on by the Future Professionals (students) of Paul Mitchell the School Tulsa as a fundraiser for ten different charities that they support. The Tulsa school has raised more than $25,000 in the past few months for various charitable organizations.

Ross got into modeling in March of 2016 when her friend put on an Anti-Bullying fundraiser fashion show. She knew a bit about modeling because of her participation in beauty pageants and an acting role that required her to do a bit of modeling. When she took on that acting role, she realized that she loved modeling. She has been competing in pageants and acting since she was 10 years old. 

When asked if she was planning to make a career of modeling, Ross responded, "I joke that modeling is making a career out of me, because before I even realized what was happening I was getting more and more jobs and I don't regret a single day of it." The Flaunt Fashion Show was the fifth show for the freelance model. She also mentioned that, "The Flaunt Fashion Show was amazing, it was my first fashion show that was wild hair and makeup and I loved it and would do it again."

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This Week in Sand Springs

Monday

• 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Planning Commission Meeting
  • Public Hearing to be held regarding request by Kirkwood Senior Apartments for tax credit to be used in rehabilitation of housing complex.
  • Commission will consider recommendation to City Council a request by Dollar General to annex the 525 S. 209th W. Ave. location into City limits.
  • Click here for full agenda
• 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Adjustment Meeting
  • Click here for full agenda

Tuesday

• 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Museum Trust Authority Meeting
  • Click here for full agenda.

Wednesday

• 8:00 a.m. through 7:30 p.m. 2017 Special Olympics Summer Games in Stillwater
  • Click here for official website.
• 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Development Authority Meeting
  • Click here for full agenda.

Thursday

• 7:00 a.m. through 10:00 p.m. 2017 Special Olympics Summer Games in Stillwater
  • Click here for official website.
• 7:00 p.m. Pop with a Cop at Charles Page High School cafeteria.
  • Meet the officers of the Sand Springs Police Department, hang out, enjoy free soda, and learn about our department and how they operate.

Friday

• 7:00 a.m. through 3:30 p.m. 2017 Special Olympics Summer Games in Stillwater
• Click here for official website.