Organizers call Inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony a success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sand Springs Ministerial Alliance donates $4,000 for police/fire Christmas bonuses

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Left to right: Pastors Todd Nance and Steve Allen present Fire Chief Mike Wood and Police Chief Mike Carter with a donation towards Christmas bonuses for the departments. 

The Sand Springs City Council met in a regular meeting Monday evening at the City Municipal Building. The Sand Springs Ministerial Alliance presented a check for $4,000 to Police Chief Mike Carter and Fire Chief Mike Wood to be used for Christmas bonus checks for the police and fire departments.

Carter spoke on the recent passage of five General Obligation Bond proposals and the wide margins of their approval. Proposal five was the closest vote with 58% in favor. "It was the biggest leap of faith for our community but we think it'll have the biggest payout," said Carter. 

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs voters approve new infrastructure and park improvements, economic incentives

Formerly a power plant and fire station, this building could one day be the home of a micro-brewery and restaurant. 

Council approved a promissory note between the City of Sand Springs and the Loaded Brewing Company, extending an existing note to March of 2018. The City first issued the note to SpringLoaded Brewery in 2014, allowing the brewery to make property improvements at 221 South Main Street with the goal of purchasing the building and opening a microbrewery/restaurant. The brewery has received five extensions while they continue to look for investors.

A "hardened-room" storm shelter planned for Case Community Center. 

Council approved a $45,000 purchase order for parks supplies including benches, park tables, and trash cans. The money will come from a 2014 GO Bond fund.

Council approved a change in zoning for a 39-acre section of land on the north side of 41st Street, immediately next to HillSpring Church. The property was previously zoned commercial and has undergone extensive property improvements to be used as a private residence with agricultural buildings and livestock.

Council approved a $136,000 contract with Lambert Construction Company for construction of a hardened-room (storm shelter) at Case Community Center. Lambert had the lowest of seven bids. 

Conceptual rendering for the new Fire Station No. 2 to be built in Prattville. 

The City received ten bids for the construction of Fire Station No. 2 and Builders Unlimited of Tulsa was recommended to Council by Chief Wood. The resolution passed unanimously awarding Builders Unlimited a $1.4 million contact.

Council approved a resolution to "adopt a kettle" from Salvation Army. The City will gather volunteers to man a fundraising kettle at Reasor's for a ten-hour shift.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This Week in Sand Springs (11/27 - 12/3/17)

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Monday

Tuesday 

  • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Birch Studio Christmas Art Show
    • WSB Homes, LLC
      2 East Broadway Street
  • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sand Springs Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
    • Triangle Park
      4 East Broadway Street
  • 6:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Basketball v. Ponca City (H)
  • 8:00 p.m. Sandite Basketball v. Ponca City (H)

Friday

  • 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. A Crafty Christmas
    • 510 Plaza Court
    • Free Santa Pictures from 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
  • 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Inaugural Parade of Books
  • 6:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Basketball v. Bishop Kelley (H)
    • Ed Dubie Field House
      500 North Adams Road
  • 7:00 p.m. 35th Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Parade
  • 8:00 p.m. Sandite Basketball v. Bishop Kelley (H)
    • Ed Dubie Field House
      500 North Adams Road

Saturday

  • 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Chipper Days
    • Sand Springs Street Department
      8620 West 21st Street
  • 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. A Crafty Christmas
    • 510 Plaza Court

Add your event to our weekly newsletter. Email SanditePrideNews@gmail.com

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.
  • $5 fee for for-profit events.

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

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Rod's Books and Relics and the Yesterday Shop in downtown Sand Springs will be hosting a Parade of Books to coincide with the Chamber of Commerce 35th Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Parade this Friday. The downtown area is seeing increased Christmas festivities this year as the city looks to brand itself as a tourist destination.

The antique and used book store will host their first-ever book signing event with former Sand Springs Leader Editor Tara Lynn Thompson and a dozen other local authors. The writers will be set up on the 2nd Street sidewalk in front of The Yesterday Shop beginning at 4:00 p.m.

"As the news editor in Sand Springs for four years, as well as simply a resident for about a decade, I fell in love with Sand Springs," says Thompson. "(I want) to reconnect with Sand Springs and give back to the town that helped me so much in my career."

Thompson is the author of the "Another Series" and has published two books with a third on the way. She released "Not Another Superhero" in 2015 and "Just Another Sidekick" this year. 

The Christmas parade will begin at 7:00 p.m. and the authors will be on hand throughout the event. Genres represented include Young Adult, Mystery, Self-Help, Children's literature, Adult Fiction, Romance, and more. Event organizers are encouraging more authors to come and are accepting applications till Wednesday. 

"Rod, his wife Cyndi, and I area all hoping this becomes the first of many years to come of holding a Parade of Books," said Thompson. Each author's table will be decorated with Christmas lights and authors will be answering questions, shaking hands, and offering their wisdom and advice to other aspiring writers. 

 

2 Angels Toy Run honors fallen Sandites and veterans, collects Christmas Presents for Salvation Army

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More than 200 Sandites turned out Saturday to honor two young car crash victims by donating toys to the Salvation Army. (Photo: Scott Emigh). 

Click here to view the full photo gallery.

In October of 2010, two Charles Page High School students were tragically killed in an auto collision that left the community reeling. Hannah Christian and Cassidy Rotramel were only fifteen years old when their vehicle was t-boned. Their driver was reportedly distracted with an electronic device and rolled a stop sign. None of the passengers were wearing seatbelts.

The tragedy was a sobering wake up call for the community on the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of safety precautions. It was also a time of mourning for the popular teens who were both role model students.

The schools were filled with additional counselors in the coming weeks and hundreds of students utilized their services to cry, vent, and search for answers. Classmate and musician Jake Tankersley used his college savings to record a song in their honor and the "See You Soon" single sold thousands of copies to help pay for their funerals.

The close knit Sandite community vowed not to let their deaths be in vain. Hundreds of students signed a pledge to never text and drive. Then, within a few weeks, the 2 Angels Toy Run and scholarship fund was born.

Christian family friend Eddie Baugher envisioned the toy run and Church That Matter has since taken over the event. Each year, hundreds of car and motorcycle enthusiasts turn out for the drive and bring new, unwrapped toys to donate to area charities in time for Christmas. The Church That Matters Holy Smokers serve barbecue and t-shirts are sold to raise money for scholarships. Two $3000 scholarships are given away each year to CPHS students.

Members of the Sand Springs Community Band perform at the 2 Angels Toy Run in honor of Veterans Day.

The event is regularly held on the second Saturday of November, which happened to coincide with Veterans Day in 2017. The Sand Springs Community Band turned out to perform the songs of each branch of the military, and veterans were recognized prior to the ride.

More than a hundred motorcycles and cars turned out with hundreds of donors. The motorcade ran from the Tulsa Community College West Campus to the Keystone Dam then back to Charles Page High School where they turned their toys in to the Salvation Army. Local businesses donated door prizes for a drawing among toy donors. Prizes were also awarded for the best decorated motorcycles.

CPHS Gold Pride performs in Tulsa Veterans Day Parade, 3 Sandites make All-District

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The Charles Page High School Gold Pride marching band participated in the 99th Annual Veterans Day Parade in downtown Tulsa on Friday, November 10th. This year's theme was "Generations of Service." 

After marching in the parade the band returned to school before loading up to travel to Midwest City to support the football team in their first round play-off game. 

The band recently ended their competition season with an "Excellent" overall rating at the OSSAA East Regional Marching Contest. Over the course of the season the Sandites also placed fourth at the Southwest Missouri Regional in Branson, and took home first prize at the Pryor Band Day.

Additionally, three band members earned First Chair honors at the Northeast Oklahoma Band Directors Association (NDBA) All-District Auditions. Kristin Shipley made the Symphonic Band for Oboe, Josh Stuckey made the Symphonic Band for Tenor Saxophone, and Jake Thompson made the Wind Ensemble for French Horn. Those three will advance to the All-State tryouts on December 2nd. 

 

Photos by Tristia Watson.

Democrat Ikley-Freeman wins Senate District 37 by 31 vote margin

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In a nail-bitter special election for the Senate District 37 seat, Democrat Allison Ikley-Freeman defeated Republican Brian O'Hara by a mere 31 votes out of 4,437 ballots cast.

The 26 year-old married mother of three works as a therapist at a Tulsa-based non-profit mental health agency and volunteers with Tulsa Achieves. She resides in West Tulsa and attends Centenary United Methodist Church. She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology, and a master's in Clinical Mental Health.

Freeman won 2,234 votes, or 50.35% to defeat O'Hara, a former Jenks City Councilman and Deputy District Director for Congressman Jim Bridenstine. 

Ikley-Freeman ran on a platform of increased funding for education, health care, and daycare assistance. She has advocated for increased oversight of police, reduced tax incentives for large businesses, improvements to infrastructure, and reduced restrictions on residential use of solar energy. 

Freeman will take over for third-term Republican Dan Newberry who resigned just six months after reelection. 

Small businesses aim to make Sand Springs a Christmas destination

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Small businesses in downtown Sand Springs have banded together in a Christmas Coalition to promote holiday festivities for the whole month of December.

Beginning November 28th, many downtown businesses will be open later hours every Tuesday leading up to Christmas. The first Tuesday will include caroling, food trucks, and a tree-lighting ceremony with Mayor Mike Burdge at 7:00 p.m. Papa Pat's barbecue and Kettle Treats will be on hand from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

"We want people to eat where they shop and shop where they eat," said Joanna Sporleder, owner of Joni's on the Triangle hair salon. Part of getting people to spend more time in downtown means creating special occasions to draw people in and show them what the town has to offer. 

While the first year of festivities will be limited, the group has big goals for the future. Local Santa Clause Glenn Burkett wants to see OmniTRAX set up some type of Polar Express on the Sand Springs Railroad. Other ideas included a live nativity scene with involvement from the Charles Page High School drama department. 

The coalition also wants to use the festivities as an opportunity to gather donations for organizations like Sand Springs Community Services (SSCS) and the Salvation Army, with businesses offering discounts to patrons who bring in toys and canned foods. "SSCS has been a huge influence in my life," said Sporleder. "I want to try and give back if I can."

SSCS will also be holding a food drive at the Festival of Lights Christmas Parade hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. The 35th annual parade will be held Friday, December 1st with a "Winter Nights and Magical Lights" theme.

The Chamber of Commerce is taking a vested interest in helping out with the coalition and is covering the cost of City Permits and other expenses, as well as helping to coordinate festivities. Keller Williams Realtor Jennifer Fox Barretto, Rod's Books and Antiques owner Rodney Thomas, Dog and Duck Antiques owners Chris and Julie Bedokis, and Yesterday to Now owner Susan Whitley are all involved in the brainstorming and planning. 

SSPS Board of Education discusses district finances, state testing, and use of adjunct teachers

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Board of Ed member Jackie Wagnon presents Joselynn Parrott with the Sandite Spirit Award. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

Click here to view full meeting photo gallery.

The Sand Springs Board of Education met in a regular monthly meeting Monday evening at the Charles Page High School Fine Arts Center. The Board presented a series of awards and discussed district finances, state testing, and personnel. 

Carson Griggs, the OSSAA 6A State Runner-Up, was recognized for his exceptional golfing abilities as well as his dedication to the classroom and awarded the Sandite Spirit Award. He recently signed a letter of intent to play for the University of Denver. 

Joselynn Parrott was recognized for her effort to instill positivity in her school by leaving messages of affirmation in the restrooms. Lori Wilkerson received the Pacesetter award for a similar project. Laura McGehee a SSPS librarian, also received the Pacesetter Award for being willing to step up and help out wherever needed, including teaching a kindergarten class recently. 

"The time that it takes these folks just to do their ordinary job, for them to take time to help give these students some positive esteem is incredible," said Superintendent Sherry Durkee.

The Sand Springs Home and Webco Industries were recognized with the Pacesetter Award for their recent donations to the Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) initiative in Sand Springs. The Home donated $10,000 for the second-straight year, and Webco donated $20,000.

The district is now $30,000 away from their goal for STEM program building and Webco CEO Dana Weber has penned a letter to other area business, asking them to contribute as well.

A representative from Sanders, Bledsoe, and Hewett gave a report on their recent audit of Fiscal Year 2016-2017. He said the district was well in line with all best practices and there were no problems with any of their financial accounting. 

Superintendent Durkee unveiled the new district website redesign and a promotional video on the home page produced by Joey Johnson Photography. 

Durkee discussed State testing and how Sand Springs compares to other districts. "As long as these reports are plastered all over the Tulsa World, we're going to be pushing to make ourselves look better...as long as those A-F report cards are going out, our teachers are going to be teaching to the test."

"People are pretty amazing in terms of our community." Durkee. "People are noticing good things. The district is working really hard to make sure we're communicating better."

The new district security officer is in his third week on the job. In addition to providing security, he is also expected to build relationships with the students and be a positive influence. 

He said he has plans to visit a group of fifth grade boys at Pratt who have been accused of bullying, and will be bringing some high school athletes and coaches to talk to them as well. "You have a class full of fifth grade boys that eventually are going to be out in the community, you want to get them on the right path early in life," he said. Rob Miller mentioned that the officer's relationship-building capabilities are one of the primary features they liked about him during the interview process.

Durkee discussed the recent loss of a speech pathologist to the private sector where she's reportedly making much more money. The Board also approved the hiring of three paraprofessionals for Pratt Elementary and Clyde Boyd Middle School.

The Board discussed the ongoing use of adjunct teachers and plans to use more in the future. Adjunct teachers are usually experts in their field from the private sector who are hired to teach a specific subject despite not having certifications or backgrounds in education. State rules recently expanded to allow an adjunct to teach three periods a day, whereas they previously could only teach one. Durkee wants to look into hiring adjuncts to teach marketing and physical therapy in the future. All adjuncts must be board-approved before teaching. 

The board also spent thirty minutes in executive session for a routine review of Durkee. "The superintendent has been evaluated and we still have one," joked Board President Rusty Gunn.

OkieSpice & Trade Co. celebrates grand opening in Sand Springs

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OkieSpice & Trade Co. held a grand opening ceremony and ribbon cutting Wednesday afternoon with much fanfare from local business owners and city officials.

Representatives from the City of Sand Springs, Tulsa County, Sand Springs Community Services,  Sand Springs Home, and Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce all came out for the ceremony to wish owners Kim and Steve Zieg good fortune in their new venture. 

Located at 501 West 2nd Street in the former Roary D's Hair Emporium, the new store specializes in spices, seasonings, salsas, and other cooking and novelty items. The products are about 75% made-in-Oklahoma according to Kim. There are smoked cheeses, bottled sodas, summer sausages, candy, decor, and more. 

The Ziegs hope to be a valuable addition to Sand Springs and to draw visitors to their hometown. In addition to renovating a long-vacant building and giving it a fresh curb appeal, they have also commissioned a mural on the side of their building and are members of the Chamber of Commerce. 

The store is open from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. They are closed Sunday and Monday. You can reach OkieSpice at 918.514.0045 

SEE RELATED: OkieSpice & Trade Co. to open in north Sand Springs this winter

Famed journalist, Disney voice actor Michael Wallis visits Northwoods Academy in Sand Springs

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Famed Route 66 historian, journalist, and Disney voice actor Michael Wallis visited students at Northwoods Fine Arts Academy Wednesday morning. The Cars star spoke to second-grade classes about the many paths of creativity he has pursued in life and shared highlights of his career.

Some of Wallis's works include David Crockett: The Lion of the West, Billy the Kid: The Endless Ride, and Route 66: The Mother Road. He has also had works published in Time, Life, People, Smithsonian, The New Yorker, and The New York Times. 

Wallis is the recipient of the John Steinbeck Award, the Arrell Gibson Lifetime Achievement Award, the Will Rogers Spirit Award, and numerous others. He was the first inductee into the Oklahoma Route 66 Hall of Fame and is a member of the Writers Hall of Fame of America, the Oklahoma Historians Hall of Fame, and the Oklahoma Writers Hall of Fame. 

Wallis's popularity as a historian and journalist earned him the opportunity to voice Sheriff in the Disney-Pixar Cars franchise. A native Missourian, Wallis currently lives in Tulsa with his wife, Suzanne Fitzgerald Wallis. 

Wallis spoke about his early writing experiences and the time he wrote a story about a school-patrol boy for a contest. He was featured in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch newspaper and got to meet the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team when he was a kid. After riding in a limousine to a Cardinals-Cubs game and watching from the dugout, he decided that writing was a career worth pursuing.

After finishing college and a stent in the U.S. Marine Corps, he began his career as a journalist and correspondent. After a few years in the field he got to interview famed pop artist Andy Warhol, who the Northwoods kids have been studying in recent weeks. Wallis spent several days shadowing Warhol and getting to know him. 

"My expectations of him were wrong," said Wallis. "I wasn't quite sure how he would be, but it turned out he was very much like I was when I was eleven years old. He was very shy, and he was already a famous artist...It happened for him, just like me, when he was a little boy."

Wallis also talked about how he first visited Tulsa on a work trip and staying in the Mayo Hotel penthouse before it closed in the early 1980s. During the trip he fell in love with the Arkansas River, the downtown art-deco architecture, and Route 66.

Speaking about the Cars franchise he told the kids "We taught Lightning McQueen that it's okay to be a race car, but sometimes you also need to slow down, to get off the highway and visit the small towns."

Students from Jennifer Barretto's art class gifted Wallis with drawings and art they created with Route 66 themes.

Boo on Broadway is a hit in downtown Sand Springs

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The Seventh Annual Boo on Broadway Halloween festival went off without a hitch Sunday in downtown Sand Springs.

For the first time since its inception, the festivities were hosted by the Sand Springs Ministerial Alliance. This year did away with the Coffin Race tradition, but had record-high participation from both volunteers and attendees. 

Olivet Baptist Church, State Farm Agent Steve Lane, the Sand Springs Police Department, Hillspring Church, Word of Life church, and Church That Matters were just a few of the many organizations involved. 

About thirty tents, booths, and car trunks were set up around the Sand Springs Triangle Park along with inflatables, games, and even a dunk tank. The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum was open for the first half of the festival, and City Councilor Patty Dixon said more than a thousand people came through the building before they ran out of candy. 

Click here to view our photo gallery.

 

Sand Springs celebrates Grand Opening of new Stage department store

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Stage Stores, Inc. opened a new facility in Sand Springs Thursday morning, relocating an existing Stage department store a mere thousand feet across the street from its previous location. Formerly in a storefront at the Atwoods Plaza, the new Stage has expanded to a 14,000 square-foot facility at 651 East Charles Page Boulevard. 

Stage carries hundreds of brands, including Adidas, Chaps, Converse, Dockers, Levi's, Skechers, U.S. Polo Assn., Vanity Fair, Lee, and Tommy Hilfiger.

To celebrate the Grand Opening, the store held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with City, Corporate, and Chamber of Commerce officials, and gave away gift cards to the first 100 customers. Free tote bags and donuts were given away and 25% off coupons were available upon checkout. 

Former the site of May's Drug Warehouse, the new facility is far larger than Stage's previous location and is a standalone building that will be wholly occupied by its new tenants. The building has been unoccupied for several years. 

The new building is located immediately south of the Sand Springs Expressway and is easily accessible via Katy Trail, which runs for 8.5 miles from downtown Tulsa to East 34th Street in Prattville. The new tenants will continue to allow trail-users to park at their facility, providing easy access to the Sand Springs Rotary Centennial Park where the town's namesake Sandy Springs are located.  

Stage Stores operates nearly 800 stores across 42  states under the names Bealls, Palais Royal, Peebles, Gordmans, and Goody's, including 148 with the name Stage. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas, and is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange. The company claims sales of $1.4 Billion in Fiscal Year 2016 and employs more than 14,000 employees. 

Sand Springs Progress Report: What's new and what's changing

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Demolition has begun on the Prattville QuikTrip. A newer, larger facility will open in 4-6 months. 

All Elements Solutions, LLC has been clearing brush and fencing along Wekiwa Road as well as in front of the limestone bluffs on Highway 51 under contract with the City of Sand Springs. 

SEE RELATED: City of Sand Springs strives to improve the view around town

A structural fire claimed a building on the Green Barn resale property last month at 316 Broad Street.

Braum's Ice Cream Shop & Burger Restaurant was demolished recently and construction will soon begin on a larger facility with a full fresh grocery selection. 3950 South Highway 97.

Construction is under way on a new Warren Clinic facility in the River West development. The facility will house the relocated offices currently located at 796 Charles Page Boulevard, as well as a new minor emergency clinic. The clinic is expected to open in Spring of 2018.

Construction is under way on a new ALDI grocery store in the River West development. The store is expected to open in Spring of 2018.

SEE RELATED: ALDI and St. Francis Urgent Care to open new locations in RiverWest Development

Yellow House Market & Boutique recently re-opened in a new larger downtown facility at 122 North Main Street.

This mural on the old Monarch Cement silo is half finished by artist Josh Butts. The mural, commissioned by the City of Sand Springs, is on hold until power can be redirected from the lines obstructing the East side of the silo.

SEE RELATED: City of Sand Springs commissions mural for abandoned Monarch Cement silo

The offices of Edward Jones agent Casey Loper have relocated from 5602 South Highway 97 to a brand new building at the intersection of West 40th Street and South 113th Avenue West.

SEE RELATED:  Edward Jones agent Casey Loper relocates Sand Springs office to new building

The Stage department store previously located at 760 East Charles Page Boulevard has relocated to the old May's Drug Warehouse building at 651 East Charles Page Boulevard. They will have a ribbon-cutting and Grand Opening Ceremony Thursday, November 2nd at 8:45 a.m. with giveaways and discounts. 

City officials broke ground last month on the new Colton's Steak House & Grill in the River West development. Franchisee Mark Dean said he expects the restaurant to open by mid-March. 

SEE RELATED: Colton's Steak House & Grill holds ground-breaking ceremony in Sand Springs

OkieSpice and Trade Co. had a soft opening this week and will have a large Grand Opening Wednesday, November 8th at 10:00 a.m. with a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony at 12:00 p.m. 

SEE RELATED: OkieSpice & Trade Co. to open in north Sand Springs this winter

Sandlot Sno-Balls will be opening a new Prattville location at 3 West 41st Street next summer. 

Construction has yet to begin on this City Council-approved "hardened room" storm shelter at the Case Community Center.

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

Demolition continues at the old Gerdau Steel Mill and future Sheffield Crossing development. 

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

The Billie A. Hall Public Safety Facility can't break ground until the demolition is complete at Sheffield Crossing, but the plans were unveiled last month. The facility will house the Sand Springs Police Department and Municipal Courts as well as replace the existing Fire Station 1.

SEE RELATED:  New Sand Springs Public Safety Facility to be named in honor of war hero Billie A. Hall

The new Sand Springs Fire Station 2 has yet to break ground, but plans are approved. It will be located on the property of the existing station, but will not overlap. The new facility will be completed before the existing building is demolished, leaving no gap in emergency services.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs Fire Station #2 to receive $1.5 million new facility

Local Churches Deliver Fun Halloween Festivities

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Looking for the most bang for your buck this Halloween? Skip the door-to-door and visit these trunk-or-treat festivities at local churches.

Sand Springs United Methodist Church
401 North Main Street
More than a dozen cars in a safe parking lot next to the Central Ninth Grade Center. 
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Sand Springs Church of Christ
4301 South 113th West Avenue
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Dozens of trunks, inflatables, a photo booth, and more. 

First Christian Church of Sand Springs
501 North Main Street
Get out of the cold and rain with some indoor festivities at First Christian Church.
5:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Not pictured:
Sand Springs Church of God
401 North Grant Avenue
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Sweetie Pie's Bakery owner, employee recognized by Sand Springs City Council

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Mayor Mike Burdge presents Robin Porter with a Mayoral Proclamation. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

The Sand Springs City Council had a busy regular meeting Monday evening. Mayor Mike Burdge presented two Mayoral Proclamations, two new police officers were sworn in, and a presentation was given on the new City Public Safety Complex.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs Police receive new officers, equipment; partner with Creek Nation

SEE RELATED: New Sand Springs Public Safety Facility to be named in honor of war hero Billie A. Hall

Robin Porter was recognized for her work in creating Sweetie Pie's Bakery as a place of employment for an individual with disabilities. Porter employs Steve Scott at her popular downtown eatery and was recently awarded the 2017 Governor's Disability Employment Award of Excellence. Scott was awarded the 2017 Governor's Disability Employee Award of Excellence. He not only works at Sweetie Pie's but is also a frequent volunteer at the Sand Springs Senior Citizens Center. Both Porter and Scott were commended by Governor Mary Fallin in a ceremony at the Governor's Mansion. They also received Mayoral Proclamations from Mike Burdge.

Mayor Mike Burdge presents Steve Scott with a Mayoral Proclamation. (Photo: Scott Emigh).

Council approved a resolution for Notice of Election for electing City Councilors from Ward 5, Ward 6, and At-Large. The filing period will be from December 4th through 6th. Candidates must filed their declaration of candidacy with the City Clerk at the Sand Springs Municipal Building. A primary election will be held on February 13, followed by a general election on April 3.

SEE RELATED: Three City Council seats up for election this February, filing period set for December

Council approved a dilapidated public nuisance notice for an uninhabited and fire-damaged home at 1000 N. Birch Avenue. Following a 30-day challenge period, the building will be eligible for demolition on December 6th. 

Council approved an ordinance closing a 15-foot Sanitary Sewer Easement on the property of Braum's Hamburgers. The restaurant was recently demolished and will soon be rebuilt as a larger facility with more services.

Council approved a $38,328 expenditure to Ruhrpumpen for the manufacture of a submersible wastewater pump and motor. 

Council awarded a $62,477.56 contract to J.E. Dirt Wurx for a sidewalk improvement project in the RiverWest Development. 

Kenny Tate, Don Chatfield, Ryan Walker, and Mary Eubanks were each appointed to the Sand Springs Economic Development Authority (SSEDA). 

Council authorized Pogue Airport to pursue various State grants and approved up to $432,750 to match any awarded grants. 

Walden, Smith, Sandite Wrestling to be Grand Marshalls of Christmas Parade

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The 35th Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Parade will be full of Sandite pride this year. Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce President Kristen Valentin announced Wednesday that Charles Page High School Head Wrestling Coach Kelly Smith, his 2017 State Championship wrestling team, and nine-time OSSAA State Championship runner Cheyenne Walden will be sharing Grand Marshall duties during this year's parade.

Kelly Smith (center) with his 2016-2017 Coaching Staff.

Smith is in his sixteenth year leading the high school wrestling program and in 2017 he led his team to their first State Championship since 1971. The Sandites went undefeated to sweep the Dual State Championship and State Tournament, crowning five individual Champions. They finished the year ranked fifteenth in the nation by FloWrestling. 

Walden graduated in May as the most decorated athlete in Sandite history with four Cross Country State Championships and five Track and Field State Championships. She recently placed 48th at the Penn State Open, fourth among her fellow Oklahoma State University Cowgirls, and 34th at the Cowboy Jamboree in September. 

The theme for this year's parade is Winter Nights and Magical Lights, and it will be held in downtown Sand Springs on Friday, December 1st at 7:00 p.m. 

Entry in the parade is $20.00 and must be submitted to the Chamber of Commerce by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 17th. A $100 cash prize will be given to the best Overall Entry. Other awards will be presented for Best Church Entry, Best Use of Theme, Best Use of Lighting, Best Showmanship, and Best Marching Unit. 

This Week in Sand Springs (10/9 - 10/15/17)

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Monday

  • Columbus Day
  • Indigenous Peoples Day

Tuesday 

  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Volleyball vs. Ponca City (Regionals).
    • Winners advance to Championship match at 7:00 p.m.
    • Stillwater High School
      1224 North Husband Street
      Stillwater, OK 74075

Thursday

  • 11:00 a.m. Sandite Softball vs. Choctaw (State Quarterfinals).
    • ASA Hall of Fame Stadium
      2801 NE 50th St
      Oklahoma City, OK 73111
  • 5:30 p.m. Pogue Airport Advisory Board Meeting.
    • Airport Terminal Building
      3200 Airport Road Conference Room
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Homecoming Parade.
    • Downtown Sand Springs.

Friday

  • 11:00 a.m. OSSAA Softball State Semifinals.
    • Sandites play pending results of Thursday game.
    • ASA Hall of Fame Stadium
      2801 NE 50th St.
      Oklahoma City, OK 73111
  • 5:00 p.m. Sandite Letterman Gathering.
    • Ed Dubie Field House
      500 North Adams Road
    • Gathering for all former Sand Springs lettermen. 
  • 7:00 p.m. Free screening of Wonder Woman (2017).
    • Case Community Center
      1050 W. Wekiwa Rd
      Sand Springs, OK 74063
  • 7:00 p.m. Sandite Football vs Muskogee (H).
    • Memorial Stadium
      500 North Adams Road

Saturday

  • 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. 7th Annual Pleasant Valley Farms Winter Squash
    • Pleasant Valley Farms
      22350 West 71st Street
  • 1:15 p.m. CPHS Gold Pride Marching Band Competition
    • 3rd Annual Southwest Missouri Regional
    • More competitions to follow, times pending first competition results.
    • Branson High School
      935 Buchanan
      Branson, MO 65616
  • 5:00 p.m. OSSAA Softball State Championship.
    • Sandites play pending results of Thursday/Friday games.
    • ASA Hall of Fame Stadium
      2801 NE 50th St.
      Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Sunday

  • 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. 7th Annual Pleasant Valley Farms Winter Squash
    • Pleasant Valley Farms
      22350 West 71st Street

Add your event to our weekly newsletter. Email SanditePrideNews@gmail.com

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.
  • $5 fee for for-profit events.

Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce launches new Ambassador Program

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The Sand Springs Area Chamber of Commerce is looking for community service-minded individuals to help launch a new Chamber Ambassador program. The Chamber hosted a free luncheon at Crescent Cafe Tuesday afternoon to discuss the program and distribute information, while the host restaurant graciously footed the bill.

The Ambassador Program will work to help inform the community of Chamber membership benefits, events, and opportunities to give back to Sand Springs. The Chamber has been working since 1946 to strengthen the community and local economy.

The Chamber hosts many events throughout the year, including: The Chillin & Grillin Festival, the Taste of Sand Springs event, and the Festival of Lights Christmas Parade. They also help other organizations with their events, such as the upcoming Ministerial Alliance-sponsored Boo On Broadway Halloween event in downtown.

Ambassadors will assist Chamber President Kristen Valentine with recruiting volunteers for events, recruiting new Chamber members, and networking with new and existing Chamber members. 

"We don't want people to have to work every single event," said Committee Chairwoman Jamie Halford. "We want to try to share the workload and plan ahead for events, rather than just throw things together at the last minute."

Ambassadors will earn participation points for attending or working events, for recruiting volunteers and new chamber members, and for helping with routine office work such as followup calls with existing Chamber members. Points will be turned in at quarterly meetings where an Ambassador of the Quarter will be recognized, as well as an Ambassador of the Year award at the Annual Chamber Reception. 

Chamber benefits include ribbon cutting ceremonies for new businesses, changes of ownership, and new locations. Members are able to submit information for the Chamber newsletter, are included in the online Chamber directory, and can include information in New Member Welcome Bags. 

Anyone interested in joining the Chamber or the Ambassador Program can contact Valentine at 918-245-3221 or Kristen@sandspringschamber.com. The Chamber offices are located at 1 West 1st Street in downtown.