This Week in Sand Springs (4/15 - 4/22/18)

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Sunday

  • 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Charles Page High School Band Mattress Sale Fundraiser
    • CPHS Performing Arts Building
      600 North Adams Road

Monday

  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Planning Commission Meeting
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Adjustment Meeting
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Jenks (H)
    • Sandite Baseball Complex
      412 West 55th Street

Tuesday 

  • 8:30 a.m. Lady Sandite Golf at Union Tournament (A)
    • LaFortune Park Golf Course
      5501 South Yale Avenue
      Tulsa, OK 74135
  • 1:30 p.m. Sand Springs/Sapulpa Joint Board Meeting
  • 4:45 p.m. No. 14 Lady Sandite Softball vs. No. 2 Union (A)
    • Union Intermediate High School
      7616 South Garnett Road
      Broken Arrow, OK 74012
  • 6:15 p.m. No. 14 Lady Sandite Softball vs. No. 11 Tahlequah (A)
    • Union Intermediate High School
      7616 South Garnett Road
      Broken Arrow, OK 74012
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum Trust Authority Meeting
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Jenks (A)
    • Jenks High School Baseball Field
      809 North 3rd Street East
      Jenks, OK 74037
  • 6:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Owasso (H)
    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road
  • 8:00 p.m. Sand Springs LED Light System Unveiling
    • Sand Springs Expressway Overpass
      100 South Main Street
  • 8:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Owasso (H)
    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road

Wednesday

  • 3:00 p.m. Inez Kirk City-Garden Park Dedication
    • Inez Kirk City-Garden Park
      101 East Broadway Street
  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Development Authority Meeting
    • Sand Springs Municipal Building, Room 203
      100 East Broadway
    • Agenda not available by press time.
  • 5:30 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Muskogee (H)
    • Sandite Baseball Complex
      412 West 55th Street

Thursday

  • 4:00 p.m. No. 14 Sandite Softball vs. No. 4 Broken Arrow (A)
    • Jenks High School Softball Complex
      1701 North Birch Street
      Jenks, OK 74037
  • 6:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Norman (A)
    • Norman Sports Complex
      270 24th Avenue Southeast
      Norman, OK 73071
  • 7:30 p.m. No. 14 Sandite Softball vs. No. 10 Jenks (A)
    • Jenks High School Softball Complex
      1701 North Birch Street
      Jenks, OK 74037
  • 8:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Norman (A)
    • Norman Sports Complex
      270 24th Avenue Southeast
      Norman, OK 73071

Friday

  • 8:00 a.m. Lady Sandite Golf at Frontier Valley Conference Championship (A)
    • Adams Municipal Golf Course
      5801 Tuxedo Boulevard
      Bartlesville, OK 74006
  • 6:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Capitol Hill (H)
    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road
  • 7:00 p.m. "Wizard of Oz: The Deleted Scene"
    • Clyde Boyd Middle School Drama production
    • $5.00 admission.
    • CBMS Auditorium
      305 North 35th Street 
  • 8:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Capitol Hill (H)
    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Open Hike Day
  • 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 29th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair & Festival
    • Downtown Sand Springs
  • 2:30 p.m. "Wizard of Oz: The Deleted Scene"
    • Clyde Boyd Middle School Drama production
    • $5.00 admission.
    • CBMS Auditorium
      305 North 35th Street 
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Sapulpa (H)
    • Sandite Baseball Complex
      412 West 55th Street
  • 7:00 p.m. "Wizard of Oz: The Deleted Scene"
    • Clyde Boyd Middle School Drama production
    • $5.00 admission.
    • CBMS Auditorium
      305 North 35th Street 

Sunday

  • 2:30 p.m. "Wizard of Oz: The Deleted Scene"
    • Clyde Boyd Middle School Drama production
    • $5.00 admission.
    • CBMS Auditorium
      305 North 35th Street 

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.
  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Sand Springs to unveil new downtown LED lights next Tuesday

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs will unveil its first LED (light-emitting diode) package during a commissioning event on Tuesday, April 17, in downtown Sand Springs. The LED lights will be put into service at 8:00 p.m. following a brief ceremony at 100 South Main Street at the US412 underpass. 

"This project was approved by our City Council a few years ago as part of our Vision 2025 community enhancement master project," stated City Manager Elizabeth Gray. "The Case Community Park was a major component of our overall project. With this light commissioning event we are pleased to offer this unique roadway lighting for our citizens and area businesses. This is another example of the Vision2025 funding program, which has enhanced quality of life efforts throughout Tulsa metro, and we wish to thank voters for their support."

The lighting system addresses one of the darkest underpass areas in Sand Springs.

It is designed to improve public safety at night, and will help bridge the pedestrian space between downtown Sand Springs businesses and the Riverwest shopping district.

"We're excited to bring this colorful, artistic light display to our community," said Community Development Director Grant Gerondale. "The LED lights have an automated calendar holding various lighting scenes which will reveal different colorized scenes throughout the year. For example you'll see red, white and blue for major holidays like Independence Day; red and green for Christmas; and the bridge underpass will go pink during Cancer awareness month in October. It's a creative way to add lighting safety and bring a splash of color to our town."

The last remaining round of Vision 2025 funding will be provide visual highway enhancements in Sand Springs. Following a vegetation clearing phase this spring, highway travelers can expect to see additional white vinyl rail fence installed around Sand Springs.

Sand Springs breaks ground on new Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center

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The City of Sand Springs broke ground on the new Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center Wednesday morning. 

The $10.7 million facility will house the north-side police and fire stations, 911 operations, a jail, and court rooms. It will be approximately 40,000 square feet and is located in the Sheffield Crossing development.

The facility is named for Sand Springs native Billie Allen Hall, who was killed in action during the Vietnam War in 1966. A special forces medic, Hall was stationed at Camp A Shau when it was attacked by North Vietnamese regiments. After losing both legs to a mortar strike, Hall refused treatment and instead worked to treat other soldiers and coordinate medical efforts until he succumbed to his injuries. He was 26 years old at the time.

Hall has been honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in 1967 and inducted into the Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame in 2008. In 2007 the American Legion Post 17 in Sand Springs unanimously voted to rename the Post in his honor, and the organization continually works to have Hall awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. There is also a memorial dedicated to Hall at the local Woodland Cemetery.

Sand Springs Mayor Mike Burdge invoked President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, quoting, "We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract." 

"That's true of this property too," continued Burdge. "Every police officer and firefighter who enters this building will see and know the story of Billie Hall."

Burdge also celebrated the Sand Springs public safety forces, saying "we have one of the best police departments and fire departments in the (Tulsa) Metro Area."

Hall's widow, Janice Bellew, gave a heart-wrenching speech on her lost beloved. "We both grew up in the Widow's Colony...they were the first people we met when we moved in there."

"He would take the shirt off his back to give to anybody or help anybody out," she said through tears.

"He was three years old when his daddy died. My daughter was three years old when he died. It's just hard losing somebody. My daddy was killed in the Navy before I was born so I never got to know him. It's been a hard life for all of us, but you have to carry on.

"I remarried. I've got a son, two great grand kids. So we have a good life, even though I don't have Billie anymore that doesn't mean I've forgotten him. I lived too many years growing up with him."

City Manager Elizabeth Gray spoke briefly, saying "We want to thank the citizens for their vote of confidence that they gave us to do this. We want to thank the fire and police officers for bearing with us as we work to get them a facility they deserve." 

Police Chief Mike Carter expects the center to be completed in about a year. City officials have also discussed the possibility of a veterans' memorial on the grounds. 

Sand Springs Schools return to session after eight-day strike

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After eight days of school closure, Sand Springs Public Schools will return to session Thursday, April 12th. 

Teachers from the district have been participating in a statewide walkout to protest low wages and inadequate school funding.

Tens of thousands of protesters have visited the State Capitol in the past two weeks to lobby for increased school funding, and supporters could be seen on street corners in towns across the state waving posters and banners even through rain, sleet, and bitter cold. 

The State Legislature has thus far failed to meet the full demands of the Oklahoma Educators Association, but has passed revenue-raising measures including teacher pay raises averaging $6,100, as well as some general education funding. 

Sand Springs Superintendent Sherry Durkee issued the following press release Tuesday evening after a district meeting with teachers and administrators. 

"Thank you for your continued support of our district and teachers during the last few weeks. We understand that it has been a difficult and emotional time for everyone. Our teachers and administration have been in constant communication during this time. We pride ourselves on our ability to constructively collaborate together ensuring we make positive decisions for students. Our community’s support has been extraordinary and we are thankful to be Sandites.

"After a meeting late this afternoon with teachers and administrators, our Sandite family decided to resume school on Thursday, April 12. Also today, Governor Fallin signed the Ball and Dice bill (HB 1013xx) and the Internet Sales bill (HB 1019xx) raising an additional $44 million dollars in state revenue. We are extremely proud of the courageousness of our Sandites to advocate for the future of public education in Oklahoma and for the thousands of students their advocacy will benefit. Teachers, parents, community members, business leaders, and our faith community united fiercely together for a noble, common purpose. We are extremely thankful for legislators who choose to boldly make the decisions to vote in support of public education. Our job is not finished. Advocacy must continue. We will be sending additional information to our parents and patrons to keep people informed of our next steps. Stay tuned and stay with us.

"Beginning Monday, April 16, an additional 15 minutes will be added to each day to make up for lost instructional time. Our students’ last day of class remains the same, May 25th.

"Those of you in the community who spent countless hours serving our students with the provision of food and childcare are heroes in our hearts. We truly are blessed to reside in an amazing city full of people who are willing to serve in such a powerful way. Thank you to all who served in this way.

"Thank you for your support of Sand Springs Schools, the investment in the future of public education in Oklahoma and for continuing to keep an open dialog during this time. We remain committed to providing the best possible education to our students.

Lastly, take the time to thank our teachers. They are resilient, tireless, and extraordinary people. I am in awe."

Candidate filing begins April 11

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(Oklahoma City) – The 2018 candidate filing period for state, federal and nonpartisan judicial offices is scheduled for April 11-13 at the State Capitol in Oklahoma City, State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax said Monday.

Filing will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday in the West Hallway on the Ground Floor of the State Capitol just inside the west entrance. Races on the ballot include all five of Oklahoma’s seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, statewide offices including Governor, dozens of state legislative races and judicial offices.

Large crowds are expected at the State Capitol during the week if teachers continue their demonstrations in and around the building. Although there will be limited parking available for candidates in the west parking lot, parking cannot be guaranteed. Candidates should consider arranging for someone to drop them off near the building and allow extra time to arrive. Space in the filing area will also be limited, and those accompanying candidates will be required to enter the building via regular public entrances.

Candidates will be allowed to enter at the State Capitol’s west entrance and should follow signs to gain entry. Ziriax strongly encouraged candidates to review the candidate filing checklist provided with the candidate filing packet online at http://elections.ok.gov.

“Candidates must be in line by 5 p.m. to submit their paperwork that day,” Ziriax said. “We cannot accept incomplete paperwork, so it is critical that candidates review that checklist to make sure they have everything they need when they arrive.”

County voters will elect assessors, treasurers and district 1 and 3 commissioners in 2018. Candidates for those offices will file at their respective county election boards.

OSDE extends testing window to give students opportunity for best performance

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OKLAHOMA CITY (April 9, 2018) – As Oklahoma’s statewide teacher walkout has continued past one week and districts representing the majority of students have announced school closures into a second week, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister today announced the extension of the Oklahoma School Testing Program schedule, which began April 2. 

The adjustment of federally mandated assessments means the testing window for grade 3-8 general assessments and grade 11 science assessments are now extended by one week from the original deadline.

“Our schoolchildren must have the opportunity to confidently show their best work. This extension is essential to better support students and ensure an appropriate transition back into classrooms,” stated Hofmeister. “It is also critical that districts have the maximum opportunity possible to meet both state and federal requirements. Federal law requires states to assess 95 percent of the student population. This extension hopefully will prevent jeopardizing of federal funding or incurring penalty.”

For information on how this extension impacts specific required tests, click here.  

29th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair & Festival set for April 21st

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs announces its plans for the 29th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair & Festival in downtown Sand Springs. The event occurs on Saturday, April 21, and runs from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. This year's event showcases more than 100 plant, herb, arts, crafts, food and wine vendors from around the four-state area. In addition to all of the gardening enthusiast items, this Herbal Affair features a half-dozen live musical performers on the historical stage at Charles Page Triangle Park in the heart of the downtown district. 

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs 29th Annual Herbal Affair & Festival

"This year's event is slightly larger than in the past, with a few more vendors adding to the diversity of our event," stated Grant Gerondale, Community Development Director for the City of Sand Springs. "What began as a small gathering of gardening enthusiasts with Ruth Leib and Sandi Byerly in 1989 has grown into Oklahoma's premier herbal festival."

With the positive growth seen this past year at the City's Riverwest Development just south of downtown, parking options at that site no longer exist. Event goers should rely heavily on the free parking and shuttle service at Charles Page High School (500 N. Adams Road) and utilize on-street parking around the downtown area. The free shuttle service will run from 8:00 a.m. until shortly after 4:00 p.m.

Each year the Sand Springs Herbal Affair offers shoppers a unique variety of tomatoes, herbs, annual and perennial plants and an assortment of arts, crafts, foods and wines. Visitors also enjoy the announcement of the "Hometown Hero" award, presented to a deserving Sand Springs citizen each year on the stage.

"This year's event brings in some new items and also goes back to some of the traditional roots of the festival," Gerondale added. "We'll feature eclectic gardening features like worm soil casings, a soil amenity for your garden, and we'll also see trendy hydroponically grown tomatoes. On the musical side of things we'll have the traditional sounds of the Shelby Eicher Trio, but we'll also bring back Dulcimer Magic which played the event for years. To end the day we've added the Sand Springs Community Band which did a fantastic job during last year's Riverfest grand opening at the new Case Community Park. I really encourage locals to come out and enjoy this great live music."

When you do come out, you'll be joining nearly 30,000 other visitors who make the annual trek to Sand Springs to get their fill of outdoor gardening plants, arts, crafts, and good food. This year's event features nearly 20 food operations to satisfy hungry strollers. 

"Who doesn't like the Amish chicken and noodles, right?" asked Gerondale. "You'll find old standby herbal affair foods and treats like fresh roasted nuts, but you'll also see some offerings like succotash and pitas."

This is a family and pet (on a leash) friendly outing as folks mingle amidst the historic downtown triangle of Sand Springs. Parents will want to check out the kidz-zone on the west side of the event area. Church That Matters is again hosting a variety of activities including a Radio Control Car display, kids petting zoo, snow cones and the chance for some Home Depot wood building kit activities. All of those activities are free to children.

The Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum will also be open and offers a great walk-through for interpretative displays and features a fine example of 1920's art-deco architecture.  The museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Is there a wine lover in your home? You won't want to miss the small wine-garden located immediately across from City Hall. Five area wineries will have small taster samplings on hand as well as a variety of their products for sale.

The City of Sand Springs encourages all event goers to step into the fun-filled shops that line the downtown streets of Herbal Affair. Unique and hard to find antiques, apparel and small treasures can be found in many of our small businesses in downtown Sand Springs.

Want to learn more? Check out our Facebook page in the days leading up to the April 21 event to find informative Herbal Affair event videos and details.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit  www.sandspringsok.org and www.seesandsprings.com.

This Week in Sand Springs (4/8 - 4/15/18)

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Monday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools closed for teacher walkout. 
  • 8:00 a.m. Sandite Tennis Tournament (A)
    • Hillcrest Country Club
      1901 Price Road
      Bartlesville, OK 74006
  • 8:00 a.m. Lady Sandite Golf (Owasso Invitational)
    • Bailey Ranch Golf Course
      10105 Larkin Bailey Boulevard
      Owasso, OK 74055
  • 5:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Ponca City (H)
    • Sandite Baseball Complex
      412 West 55th Street
  • 5:00 p.m. No. 14 Sandite Softball vs. 5A No. 8 Kellyville (H, Double Header)
    • Sandite Softball Complex
      412 West 55th Street

Tuesday 

  • Sand Springs Public Schools closed for teacher walkout.
  • Times TBA - Lady Sandite Softball at Jenks Festival (A)
    • 1701 North Birch Street
      Jenks, OK 74037
  • 5:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Ponca City (A)
    • Ponca City High School
      927 North 5th Street
      Ponca City, OK 74601
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Shawnee (H)
    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road
  • 8:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Shawnee (H)
    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road

Wednesday

  • 8:30 a.m. Lady Sandite Golf Tournament (A)
    • Sapulpa Municipal Golf Course
      1200 West Dewey Avenue
      Sapulpa, OK 74066
  • 11:30 a.m. Sand Springs City Council Special Meeting

Thursday

  • 1:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Muskogee (A)
    • Spartan/Tiger Turf War Tournament
    • 601 South Riverview Drive
      Bixby, OK 74008
  • 4:30 p.m. No. 14 Sandite Softball vs. No. 16 Sapulpa (H, Double Header)
    • Sandite Softball Complex
      412 West 55th Street
  • 6:00 p.m. CPR, AED, and First Aid Training Class
  • 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Chillin & Grillin Festival
    • Case Community Park
      2500 River City Park Road

Friday

  • 10:15 a.m. Sandite Track & Field (Yukon Classic)
    • Yukon High School
      1777 South Yukon Parkway
      Yukon, OK 73099
  • 3:30 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Jenks (A)
    • Spartan/Tiger Turf War Tournament
    • 601 South Riverview Drive
      Bixby, OK 74008
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Bixby (A)
    • Spartan/Tiger Turf War Tournament
    • 601 South Riverview Drive
      Bixby, OK 74008
  • 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Chillin & Grillin Festival
    • Case Community Park
      2500 River City Park Road
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Union (A)
    • Union High School
      6636 South Mingo Road
      Tulsa, OK 74133
  • 7:00 p.m. Free Movie Night: Wonder (2017)
    • Case Community Center
      1050 West Wekiwa Road
  • 8:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Union (A)
    • Union High School
      6636 South Mingo Road
      Tulsa, OK 74133

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Green Country Volunteer Fire Department Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser
    • Elks Lodge No. 2553
      546 Imperial Boulevard
  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Open Hike Day
  • 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Tulsa Women Veterans Serenity Retreat
  • 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Chillin & Grillin Festival and Harper's Hut Classic Car Show
    • Case Community Park
      2500 River City Park Road
  • 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. CPHS and CBMS Bands at Percussion State Finals
    • Broken Arrow High School
      1901 East Albany Street
      Broken Arrow, OK 74012
  • 1:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. TBA (A)
    • Spartan/Tiger Turf War Tournament
    • 601 South Riverview Drive
      Bixby, OK 74008

Sunday

  • 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Charles Page High School Band Mattress Sale
    • CPHS Performing Arts Building
      600 North Adams Road

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.
  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Oklahoma Legislature approves $40 million in new revenue for education

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OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate on Friday approved measures that will send millions of new dollars into Oklahoma classrooms.

The Senate gave approval to HB 1019xx, a bill that requires online marketplaces like Amazon to collect and remit sales tax to Oklahoma or comply with the state’s notification requirements. The Oklahoma Tax Commission estimates the bill will generate $20.5 million annually.

“The Oklahoma Senate has shown repeatedly its commitment to students and teachers first by passing the largest teacher pay raise in state history and now by approving measures providing millions of dollars in new funding for Oklahoma classrooms,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus.

The Oklahoma Senate last week approved a teacher pay raise bill, giving Oklahoma teachers a $6,100 pay raise on average. The pay raise bill already has been signed into law. To fund the teacher pay raises and provide millions of dollars in funding for textbooks and teacher health care benefits, the Senate also gave approval to revenue measures generating $530 million in new, recurring revenue to fully and perpetually fund the raises and increased education spending.

“Increasing average teacher pay in Oklahoma to the second-highest in our region and putting more dollars into the classroom will help us retain and recruit quality, professional educators to help our students and our state succeed. As we move forward, the Senate stands committed to considering additional ways to put more dollars into our classrooms, as wells as reforms that best serve students, parents and teachers,” Schulz said.

The Senate on Friday also gave approval to HB 3375, the so-called “ball and dice” gaming bill. For the current fiscal year, the Oklahoma Tax Commission cannot certify revenue generated by this bill. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services, the state’s gaming compliance agency, anticipates the measure will bring new revenue into the state.

Last week, the Oklahoma Senate approved the FY’19 education budget bill, only the second time the April 1 “Fund Education First” deadline has been met by the Legislature. The education budget, which has been signed into law, allocates more than $2.9 billion to Oklahoma schools, a 19 percent increase from the previous year.

Joy Hofmeister, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, made the following remarks today after the passage in the Senate of House Bill 1019XX and House Bill 3375, which will add nearly $40 million in dedicated funding to common education:

“What we have seen at the Capitol this past week has been groundbreaking. Over the past several days, it has been my privilege to engage hundreds of teachers in face-to-face conversations and to witness firsthand their tireless advocacy to ensure that their students and classrooms have the resources for learning.

“On the heels of landmark legislation signed into law just last week, common education now has received an infusion of nearly $500 million in new revenue. I am grateful for the bipartisan efforts of legislators who have done the right thing to reverse a decade of funding challenges that failed to keep pace with student enrollment and need. The legislation passed this week is tremendous progress, but our students and their education will require continued investment and advocacy for years to come.

“Teachers, your stories have been heard at the Capitol and across the nation. These gains are the result of your fight for kids. I know your hearts are in the classroom. I am inspired by your years of dedication, humbled by your sacrifices and proud of your accomplishments.”

Board of Education meeting focuses on teacher walkout and school closures

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The Sand Springs Public Schools Board of Education met in a regular monthly meeting Monday evening and spent most of the session discussing the ongoing Oklahoma teacher walkout.

Superintendent Sherry Durkee discussed HB1010xx, HB3705 and other pieces of legislation from the current session. The Oklahoma legislature recently passed bills generating teacher pay raises averaging $6,100, but failed to satisfy Oklahoma Educators' Association demands for general classroom funding.

A majority of the Sand Springs teaching staff is participating in a statewide walkout at press time and Thursday will mark the fourth day of school closures due to understaffing. Many district employees are lobbying at the Capitol and scores of supporters have been occupying street corners at major intersections in Sand Springs, holding signs in support of the walkout. 

"I think that we have a great set of staff that love kids and are trying really hard to do the right thing and make it better for our kids," said Durkee.

The district has two unused "snow days" left, so students can miss school till Tuesday without having to extend the school year. If the strike lasts past that point, the district may add additional days to the school year, and could add extra time to the school day. Teachers will have to make up each missed day in professional development even after the students are dismissed for the summer, regardless of snow days.

The Board also presented four Sandite Spirit Awards and two Pacesetter Awards.

Mason Turgeon received a Sandite Spirit Award for building a set of wooden stairs for an elementary school ball pit as part of his Eagle Scout project. 

Jacelyn Smith, Juliana Shipman, and Erin Smith received Sandite Spirit Awards for helping a fellow student. The girls noticed one of their classmates' shoes were falling apart so they purchased a brand new pair of shoes from their own money. 

Andrea Bays, Caroline Brown, and Janet Thompson were presented with Pacesetter Awards. The three teachers head up the Charles Page High School Business Professionals of America and helped raise $750 for Sandite Special Olympics at their annual fundraiser.

This Week in Sand Springs (4/2 - 4/8/18)

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Monday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools closed for teacher walkout. 
  • 8:00 a.m. Lady Sandite Tennis Tournament (A)
    • Hillcrest Country Club
      1901 Price Road
      Bartlesville, OK 74006
  • 12:00 p.m. Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Open Forum
    • Tulsa Tech - Sand Springs Campus
      924 East Charles Page Boulevard
  • 5:30 p.m. Sand Springs Public Schools District Dialogue
    • Charles Page High School Performing Arts Building Sandite Room
      600 North Adams Road
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Broken Arrow (A)
    • Broken Arrow High School
      1901 East Albany Street
      Broken Arrow, OK 74012
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board meeting
  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Education meeting

Tuesday 

  • Sand Springs Public Schools closed for teacher walkout.
  • 4:30 p.m. No. 14 Lady Sandite Softball vs. Sapulpa (A)*Double Header
    • Sapulpa Softball Field
      631 North Brown
      Sapulpa, OK 74066
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Broken Arrow (H)
    • Sandite Softball Complex
      412 West 55th Street
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Edmond Santa Fe (H)
    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road
  • 8:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Edmond Santa Fe (H)
    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road

Wednesday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools closed for teacher walkout. 
  • 8:30 a.m. Lady Sandite Golf Tournament (A)
    • South Lakes Golf Course
      9253 South Elwood Avenue
      Jenks, OK 74037
  • Time TBA: Sand Springs Board of Education Special Meeting
    • Charles Page High School Performing Arts Building Sandite Room
      600 North Adams Road
    • Agenda not available by press time. 

Thursday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools closed for teacher walkout.
  • 4:30 p.m. No. 14 Sandite Softball vs. 5A No. 12 Berryhill (H)*Double Header
    • Sandite Softball Complex
      412 West 55th Street

Friday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools closed for teacher walkout.
  • 3:30 p.m. Sandite Track & Field (Pioneer Relays)
    • Stillwater High School
      1224 North Husband Street
      Stillwater, OK 74075
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Norman (A)
    • Norman High School
      911 West Main Street
      Norman, OK 73069
  • 7:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Hilldale (H)
    • Sandite Baseball Complex
      412 West 55th Street
  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Band Bingo Night
    • Charles Page High School Cafeteria
      500 North Adams Road
  • 8:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Norman (A)
    • Norman High School
      911 West Main Street
      Norman, OK 73069

Saturday

  • 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Chipper Day
    • City of Sand Springs Street Department
      8620 West 21st Street
    • Bring Sand Springs water/refuse bill for proof of residence in City Limits.
      Free chipping of tree limbs up to 2 inches in diameter, free wood chips, free firewood. 
  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Hike with your Dog Day
  • 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Green Country Federal Credit Union Annual Meeting
    • Case Community Center
      1050 West Wekiwa Road

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.
  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Sand Springs Schools to close Monday for teacher walkout, possibly longer

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The Sand Springs Public School District will be closed Monday, April 2 due to insufficient staffing. 

According to a district survey, 63% of teachers intend to strike in protest of insufficient state funding. Many will be heading to the State Capitol to lobby for increased funding from the State legislature. 

"Although we would like to provide preparation time, we are only able to give notice one day at a time," said a public statement. "We will keep you updated through our social media, district website, local media and our messaging system."

Many local organizations have come together to help pick up the load that the schools normally carry, including meals and childcare. Free meals can be found at the following location for the duration of the teach walkout. Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Anyone with questions can contact Mikael Howard at 918-246-1400 or mikael.howard@sandites.org. 

Salvation Army (lunch and breakfast) - 4403 South 129th West Avenue, Sand Springs.
Lake Methodist Church (lunch and breakfast) - 7750 West 14th Street, Tulsa.
Garfield STEAM Academy (lunch and breakfast) - 701 North Roosevelt Avenue, Sand Springs.
Olivet Baptist Church (lunch) - 155 North 65th West Avenue, Tulsa. 
Harvest Church West Tulsa (breakfast) - 331 South 49th West Avenue, Tulsa. 
Church That Matters (lunch) - 3 West 41st Street, Sand Springs.
River Oaks Community Center (lunch) - 4800 West 16th Street, Sand Springs.

The Sand Springs School Board and Sand Springs City Council both passed unanimous declarations of support for teachers who choose to walk out. The district currently has six unused snow days, but if the walkout lasts longer than that, the school year will have to be extended. 

SEE RELATED: SSPS Superintendent Durkee addresses teacher walkouts at District Dialogue
SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council approves resolution of support for teachers
SEE RELATED: Sand Springs Board of Education approves resolution of solidarity with teacher walk-out

Tulsa Technology Center and Tulsa Community College will both be open during the walkout and district transportation to those schools will continue as usual. Students will be able to meet the bus at Charles Page High School for transportation. All extracurricular and athletic activities will continue, including Prom and Graduation. 

The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Clubs of the Tulsa Metro area will be providing a free Education Alternative for the duration of the walkout, including their Sand Springs location at 4403 South 129th West Avenue. Space is limited at each location. The club is open to children ages five to seventeen from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m, Monday through Friday. Volunteers are needed and can reach Charity Mitchell at 918-587-7801 or at charity.mitchell@uss.salvationarmy.org. Other clubs are located at: 

Boys & Girls Club Broken Arrow – 918-258-7545, 1400 W. Washington, Broken Arrow, 74012
Boys & Girls Club Creek County/Sapulpa – 918-224-4415, 1721 S. Hickory, Sapulpa, 74066
Boys & Girls Club Sand Springs – 918-245-2237, 4403 S. 129th West Ave., Sand Springs, 74063
Mabee Red Shield Boys & Girls Club – 918-834-2464, 1231 N. Harvard, Tulsa, OK 74115
North Mabee Boys & Girls Club – 918-425-7534, 3001 N Cincinnati, Tulsa, OK 74106
West Mabee Boys & Girls Club – 918-582-4327, 2143 S Olympia, Tulsa, OK 74107

Governor Mary Fallin recently signed a revenue package funding an average pay raise of $6,100 for teachers and $50 million in general education funding. The bill increased the gross production tax on oil wells to 5%, increased the cigarette tax by $1.00 per pack, increased gasoline tax by $0.03 a gallon and the diesel tax by $0.06 a gallon. 

However, the Oklahoma Education Association previously announced demands of $10,000 in teacher pay raises, as well as $5,000 raises for support staff, $213 million in state employee raises, $200 million in public school funding, and $255.9 million in health care funding. The OEA has not backed down from its demands at press time and are still calling for a walkout.

Senate passes revenue package to fund teacher pay raises, Fallin pledges to sign bills

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OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma Senate on Wednesday passed a historic revenue package to fund a $6,100, or 16 percent, pay raise on average for Oklahoma teachers. That increase moves Oklahoma from seventh to second highest in the region in average teacher pay and is the largest teacher pay raise in the history of the state.

“The Oklahoma Senate took a historic step that will have positive and long-lasting impacts on the success of our state," said Senate Pro Tem Mike Schulz, R-Altus. "One of the most important factors in the success of our students is a quality, professional teacher in the classroom. Passing the largest teacher pay raise in state history moves us to No. 2 in the region in average teacher pay and will help Oklahoma retain quality teachers. It’s a significant investment in economic development because an educated workforce is essential to growing and expanding our economy. For more than 15 months, the Senate has worked tirelessly to fund a significant teacher pay raise. This is a responsible plan that answers Oklahomans’ call for the Legislature to find a solution to teacher pay. I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for their dedication to finding a solution and seeing a teacher pay raise come to fruition.” 

HB 1010xx provides $447 million in revenue by increasing the gross production to 5 percent on all wells, increasing the cigarette tax $1 per pack, and increasing the gas tax 3 cents and the diesel tax 6 cents.  

The Senate also advanced HB 1011xx, which provides an additional $84.3 million for teacher pay by making changes to the state income tax code.

Governor Mary Fallin issued the following statement:

“This is an historic evening for the state of Oklahoma. I applaud the bipartisanship shown in the Senate tonight and in the House of Representatives earlier this week by passing House Bill 1010XX. Those voting yes answered the call from the public by voting teachers a pay raise and putting the state on a solid foundation for the future. I will follow through on their courage and action by signing House Bill 1010XX. I appreciate our lawmakers putting people over politics by approving this package of revenue measures to fund teacher pay raises as well as provide additional money for the classroom. This budget package also helps set us on a path to long-term sustainability and stability by making more recurring revenue available and helps us to stop balancing our budget with one-time funds.”

State Superintendent of Public Education Joy Hofmeister commended the bipartisan legislation, but noted there's more work to be done. "While this legislation is far from all that needs to be done to reverse years of education funding cuts, it is a tremendous step forward. There is no one more important than the teacher in classroom instruction, and House Bill 1010-XX will be critical in retaining and recruiting teachers. This vote is a bright light for public education in Oklahoma.”

“This is progress, but it should not be a one-time deal," said Senate Democratic Leader John Sparks. "Moving forward, we need to make sure that Oklahoma invests in education. This means we need sustainable revenues that will allow us to restore funding for our classrooms which has been cut for over a decade.

“We’re giving teachers a much deserved raise now, but we need to continue to improve teacher salaries in Oklahoma in coming years. We also need to continue working to provide much needed salary increases to school support personnel and state employees.

“The job is not done. We will continue working tomorrow and for the remainder of the legislative session to properly fund education in Oklahoma.”

Berryhill High School senior serves as State Senate page

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(SUBMITTED).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Berryhill High School senior, Courtney Buttler served as a Senate page for State Sen. Allison Ikley-Freeman, D-Tulsa, during the fifth week of the legislative session from March 5-8, 2018. Courtney is the daughter of Sand Springs resident Sheree Buttler.

City of Sand Springs to purchase additional land for Keystone Ancient Forest

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The City of Sand Springs held a regular City Council Meeting Monday night and approved the purchase of twenty acres adjacent to the Keystone Ancient Forest at a value of $100,000.

The property sits next to the entrance to the existing nature preserve and is not bound by the same rules as the preserve. Community Development Director Grant Gerondale hinted at the possibility of biking trails in the future.

The land is currently owned by the H. Sam Childers Trust. Childers was a crucial player in the development of the forest before his death in January of this year. Council also approved Childers as the recipient of the 2018 John M. Hess Municipal Award for Outstanding Citizenship. The award will be presented this May.

The acquisition will bring the forest to 1,380 acres total. The land features 300-year-old post oaks and 500-year-old cedars, and was the site of an exploratory expedition by famed Sleepy Hollow author Washington Irving in 1832.

The forest has multiple hiking trails, including a 0.6 mile ADA-compliant paved trail named in Childers's honor. Voters approved a general obligation bond issue this past November that will fund a visitors center and observation platform at the forest. The Childers Trust has pledged to donate $7,500 for naming rights to be applied to a future lobby or entrance area of the visitors center.

In other news: 

Council unanimously approved a measure of support for public school teachers. SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council approves resolution of support for teachers

Council awarded a bid of $88,165 to Play By Design, Inc. for seven shade structures at Case Community Park. Four will be installed near the Great Lawn and three will be placed at the Rotary Super Splash pad. 

Council approved resolutions of dilapidation and public nuisance against properties at 118 North Franklin Avenue and 808 North Franklin Avenue. 

Council approved $28,838 for the purchase of a new unmarked detective vehicle for the Police Department, as well as $10,117 for tasers and pepperball launchers, and $38,286 for audio logging equipment

Council approved an agreement with Keithline Engineering Group at a cost not to exceed $45,740 for beautification of the City Water Treatment Facility.

Council declined to vote on a request for detachment from City limits by Smithee Holdings at 7298 West Charles Page Boulevard.

Council approved a bid of $1,062,555 to Crossland Heavy Contractors, Inc. for a rehabilitation project at the Northwoods Chloramine Booster Station.

Council approved the use of public funds for Oklahoma Municipal League membership, Mayors Council of Oklahoma membership, Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce membership, Tulsa Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce membership, Indian Nationals Council on Government Coalition of Tulsa Area Government membership, and Homebuilders Association membership, as well as participation in the Oklahoma Sovereignty Symposium, and OneVoice Day at the Capitol.

Sand Springs City Council approves resolution of support for teachers

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The City of Sand Springs issued a proclamation of support for Sand Springs teachers at Monday night’s regular City Council meeting. Proclamation sponsor Brian Jackson pointed to quality education as a necessity for strong economic growth.

Sand Springs Public Schools teachers are preparing for a potential walkout on April 2nd if the State Legislature doesn’t pass significant education funding reform by that date. The Legislature failed to pass a teacher pay raise in special session this past year and the political action committee Oklahoma Education Association has issued a series of demands for the current session. OEA is requesting $10,000 in teacher pay raises over a three-year period, as well as raises for support staff and significant increases in general education funding.

The Sand Springs Board of Education recently approved a proclamation of solidarity with teachers, declaring their support for any SSPS employees who feel the need to walk out. Superintendent Sherry Durkee has stated that the district would have no choice but to shut down should a walkout occur, due to gross understaffing and an inability to provide a safe and productive environment for students.

Durkee spoke at the Council meeting prior to the vote, and addressed a statewide teacher shortage as educators have left the field or emigrated to neighboring states for significant salary increases. Despite eliminating many positions across the district, SSPS is still having difficulty drawing a qualified pool of candidates for open positions, says Durkee.

The following proclamation was unanimously approved by City Council.

“WHEREAS, the City of Sand Springs City Council recognizes the need to pay teachers a wage competitive with surrounding states and is a witness to the impact underfunding can have on economic development efforts of the City; andWHEREAS, Oklahoma Educators have supported and worked to find solutions to fund teacher pay raises and common education, only to see legislation addressing this issue fail to pass; andWHEREAS, we acknowledge measures by Oklahoma teachers to obtain necessary funding for a meaningful teacher pay raise and approval of this resolution is a show of support to our education community;THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAND SPRINGS, OKLAHOMA, AS FOLLOWS;The City Council of the City of Sand Springs supports our teachers and educators, and the local Boards of Education; and we urge the Oklahoma State Legislature to work on behalf of the education professionals in our state to take swift action to develop a viable plan to pay teachers a competitive wage and fund common education.This resolution is approved in open meeting of the City Council of the City of Sand Springs on the 26th day of March, 2017.”

This Week in Sand Springs (3/25 - 4/1/18)

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Monday

  • 5:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Muskogee (H)
    • Sandite Baseball Complex
      412 West 55th Street
  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs City Council Meeting

Tuesday 

  • 7:00 a.m. Pratt Teacher Support Rally
    • Pratt Elementary School
      301 West 35th Street
  • 7:30 a.m. Breakfast with Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith
    • Crescent Cafe
      3417 South 113th West Avenue
  • 8:00 a.m. Lady Sandite Tennis (A)
    • Edison Prep School
      2906 East 41st Street
      Tulsa, OK 74105
  • 4:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Muskogee (A)
    • Muskogee High School
      3200 East Shawnee Road
      Muskogee, OK 74403
  • 5:00 p.m. No. 14 Sandite Softball vs. Barnsdall (H)
    • Sandite Softball Complex
      412 West 55th Street
  • 5:30 p.m. Hope Tour
  • 6:00 p.m. Sandite Soccer vs. Sapulpa (A)
    • Westside Sports Complex
      1611 South Wickham Road
      Sapulpa, OK 74066
  • 6:30 p.m. "Together We're Stronger" Sand Springs Education Association community meeting
    • Charles Page High School
      500 North Adams Road
  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Band Booster Club Meeting
    • CPHS Performing Arts Building
      600 North Adams Road
  • 8:00 p.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Sapulpa (A)
    • Westside Sports Complex
      1611 South Wickham Road
      Sapulpa, OK 74066

Wednesday

  • 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Free Mental Health Screenings for TCC Students
    • Tulsa Community College West Campus
      7505 West 41st Street
  • 4:30 p.m. "Chalk it up for Education!"
  • 7:00 p.m. Fine Arts Festival Showcase
    • CrossPoint Church
      4600 South 129th West Avenue

Thursday

  • 8:00 a.m. Sandite Tennis (A)
    • Edison Prep School
      2906 East 41st Street
      Tulsa, OK 74105
  • 8:00 a.m. Lady Sandite Tennis (A)
    • Claremore High School
      2011 North Sioux Avenue
      Claremore, OK 74017
  • 10:30 a.m. Easter Party Day 
  • 11:45 a.m. Lady Sandite Soccer vs. Collinsville (Bank of Commerce Tournament)
    • Edna M. Carson Park Stilwell Community Park
      1155 West Hickory Street
      Stilwell, OK 74960
    • See full bracket in attached images.
  • 1:30 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Coweta (Tiger/Zebra Classic)
    • Pryor High School
      1100 Southeast 9th Street
      Pryor, OK 74361
  • 4:00 p.m. Salvation Army Playground Ribbon Cutting
    • Salvation Army
      4403 South 129th West Avenue
  • 5:00 p.m. Sandite Softball vs. Jenks (H)
    • Sandite Softball Complex
      412 West 55th Street
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Parks Citizen Input Meeting
    • Angus Valley Park
      500 Antiqua Drive

Friday

  • Time TBA - Lady Sandite Soccer at Bank of Commerce Tournament
    • Edna M. Carson Park Stilwell Community Park
    • 1155 West Hickory Street
      Stilwell, OK 74960
    • See full bracket in attached images.
  • 8:00 a.m. Sandite Tennis (A)
    • Muskogee High School
      3200 East Shawnee Road
      Muskogee, OK 74403
  • 10:30 a.m. Sandite Track (36th Annual Ram Relays)
    • Owasso High School
      12901 East 86th Street North
      Owasso, OK 74055
  • 11:00 a.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Booker T. Washington (Tiger/Zebra Classic)
    • Claremore High School
      2011 North Sioux Avenue
      Claremore, OK 74017
  • 1:30 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Claremore (Tiger/Zebra Classic)
    • Claremore High School
      2011 North Sioux Avenue
      Claremore, OK 74017
  • 7:00 p.m. Second Annual Unity Praise

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Open Hike Day
    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive
  • 8:00 a.m. Lady Sandite Tennis (A)
    • Muskogee High School
      3200 East Shawnee Road
      Muskogee, OK 74403
  • 8:00 a.m. Sandite Tennis (A)
    • Claremore High School
      2011 North Sioux Avenue
      Claremore, OK 74017
  • 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fifth Annual Spring Fling Arts & Crafts Event
    • Case Community Center
      1050 West Wekiwa Road
  • 10:00 a.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Tahlequah (Tiger/Zebra Classic)
    • Claremore High School
      2011 North Sioux Avenue
      Claremore, OK 74017
  • 12:00 p.m. Easter Egg Hunt
    • Delaware Baptist Church
      6808 North State Highway 97

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.
  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

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

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The Automatic Spotless Car Wash at 3300 South Highway 97 was demolished in January to make room for new development. The car wash opened in 1979 and was sold to Yocham Enterprises, a Sapulpa-based construction company, in 2011. 

A hardened-room storm shelter is under construction at the Case Community Center. City Council approved a $136,000 contract with Lambert Construction in November of last year, using funds generated by a public safety sales tax. Designed by Studio 45, the room is rated to withstand 250 m.p.h. winds with an occupancy load of 97.

Josh Butts Creative Services is wrapping up a new mural on the side of Yesterday To Now at 224 North Main Street in downtown Sand Springs. The City authorized up to $49,500 for two murals in March of 2017, with funding from the Economic Development Capital Improvement Fund. The first mural, at 11450 West Highway 51, has yet to be completed due to obstructive power lines. 

A new trail is under construction along Sand Springs Park Road, stretching from Adams Road to the Sand Springs Lake. The project is partly locally funded, along with a $620,000 grant from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. 

Atwoods Farm and Home Store at 730 East Charles Page Boulevard is undergoing an extensive expansion project after taking over the storefronts previously occupied by Stage Department Store and CrossFit 1055. The company opened its Sand Springs location in 2002. 

Colton's Steak House & Grill is opening for business Monday, March 26 at 32 West Alexander Boulevard in River West.  SEE RELATED: Colton's Steak House & Grill holds ground-breaking ceremony in Sand Springs

Ground work has begun on the new Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center at Sheffield Crossing. The 40,000 square foot facility will house the City's Police Department, north-side Fire Department, municipal courts, jail, Emergency Operations Center, and 911 Communications operations. SEE RELATED: New Sand Springs Public Safety Facility to be named in honor of war hero Billie A. Hall

Three new housing developments are under construction in Sand Springs. Rivercrest has twelve lots ranging from $200,000 to $300,000 at 3123 South 113th West Avenue. Teal Ridge offers 115 lots ranging from $270,000 to $400,000 on 41st Street. Capital Homes is developing 87 lots at 700 West 51st Street.

Framing has gone up at the new $1.5 million Fire House No. 2 at 4101 South 113th West Avenue. The building will replace an outdated adjacent station built in 1967. The project is funded with Vision 2025 sales tax and is slated to be completed in August. SEE RELATED: Sand Springs breaks ground on $1.5 million Fire Station in Prattville

Plans are underway for a Main Street Renovation Project that will connect Highway 97 to Main Street and add a frontage road connecting Main Street to the Highway 412 at the Lincoln Avenue on-ramp. The project is funded by a 50/50 agreement between the City and ODOT. Additionally, a G.O. Bond-funded road will be constructed atop the levee separating Case Community Park from Sheffield Crossing.

Sand Springs Flowers has relocated to 26 East Broadway in the old trolley station building next to Napolis. The century-old business was recently purchased by Jessica Hendricks. Coble's Flowers is renovating the old location at 206 North Main Street and is expected to move in this April. SEE RELATED: Sand Springs Flowers to relocate under new ownership

St. Francis Health Systems unveiled a new $2 million Warren Clinic facility at 102 South Main Street in River West earlier this month. SEE RELATED: New Saint Francis Warren Clinic receives blessing, opens in Sand Springs River West

Myers Marketing and We Are Sand Springs are moving into a new building at 118 North Main Street on the ground floor of a building housing Crescent Lofts and Doug's Rebuilders, the former location of Blush Hair Salon. They will hold their grand opening April 21st during the 29th Annual Herbal Affair and Festival. 

The QuikTrip convenience store at 2 East 41st Street is nearing completion and finishing the parking lot and sidewalks this week. 

The Braum's Hamburgers and Ice Cream shop at 3950 South Highway 97 is complete, and is currently hiring and training new employees before opening.

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

ZegART Studios recently opened at 700 East Charles Page Boulevard and offers family friendly art classes in many different mediums. SEE RELATED: ZegART Studios opens in Sand Springs

The passage of G.O. Bond Proposal No. 3 last November paved the way for the construction of a visitor's center and observation tower at the Keystone Ancient Forest. City Council will also vote on whether or not to purchase twenty additional acres for the forest on Monday. The $100,000 property sits adjacent to the preserve's entrance.

This Week in Sand Springs (3/18 - 3/25/18)

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Monday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools Spring Break
  • 10:00 a.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Sunnyslope (A)
    • Sunrise Mountain High School
      21200 North 83rd Avenue
      Peoria, Arizona 85382
  • 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Braum's Hamburgers Hiring Event
    • Case Community Center
      1050 West Wekiwa Road
  • 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Citywide Cleanup Day
  • 4:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Sunrise Mountain (A)
    • Sunrise Mountain High School
      21200 North 83rd Avenue
      Peoria, Arizona 85382
  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Planning Commission Meeting
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Adjustment Meeting

Tuesday 

  • Sand Springs Public Schools Spring Break
  • 4:00 p.m. Sandite Baseball vs. Coconino (A)
    • Sunnyslope High School
      35 West Dunlap Avenue
      Phoenix, Arizona 85021
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum Trust Authority Meeting

Wednesday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools Spring Break
  • 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Spring Break Fling
    • Crafts, LEGOs, outdoor games, and other adventures. Ages 5-18.
    • Charles Page Library
      551 East 4th Street

Thursday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools Spring Break
  • 4:00 p.m. Free Movie: Ms. Connie
    • Pratt Library
      3219 South 113th West Avenue

Friday

  • Sand Springs Public Schools Spring Break

Saturday

Sunday

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.
  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Attorney General Hunter Sends Letter to U.S. Commerce Secretary Ross, Requesting Reinstatement of Citizenship Question on 2020 Census

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OKLAHOMA CITY – Attorney General Mike Hunter has led a coalition of thirteen states in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, requesting the agency reinstate a question on the 2020 Census regarding citizenship.

The citizenship question was omitted for the first time in decades in the 2010 Census, something the letter to Ross says creates less reliable data for state officials to use when determining districts based on population. The result is that legally eligible voters may have their votes diluted or distorted. 

Additionally, not including the question hurts districts with minority groups that have large non-citizen populations. The letter explains, good data in minority districts is necessary to ensure the citizen population is large enough to elect the minority group’s candidate of choice. Without accurate data, states cannot obtain certainty about whether they comply with the Voting Rights Act’s requirements.

Attorney General Hunter said the census is the only fair way to draw district lines and collect information about the nation. 

“Inaccurate counts harm the rights of United States citizens,” Attorney General Hunter said. “Additionally, billions of dollars in federal funds are at stake, which includes money for children’s health programs in under-served areas. Using incorrect numbers stands to disproportionately allocate these funds. We encourage the Department of Commerce to act by including the citizenship question in the 2020 census.”

In the letter, the state officials argue that the current method to collect data about citizenship, the American Community Survey (ACS), is substandard and less accurate than census data because it draws from only one in every 38 households. The smaller sample size translates to a larger margin of error.

“Citizenship still matters,” the letter concludes. “It is a privilege that is important and meaningful and not lightly ignored. Non-citizens can be valuable members of our community, but citizenship rightly confers benefits and responsibilities that must be taken seriously.

“Chief among them is the right to vote. Voting is the most precious right of every citizen – it provides the means to participate, to influence and to articulate his concerns to the government. Including a simple question in the census will impose a minimal burden on the government and the residents surveyed, but this small step will have a significant and positive impact on the policies and constitution of our great republic.”

In addition to Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter, the letter was signed by the Attorneys General of Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Nebraska, Michigan, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia, as well as the Governors of Kentucky and Mississippi. 

Read the letter, here: http://bit.ly/2tQP682.