Evacuations continue in Sand Springs as flood waters rise, Keystone output surpasses 205,000 cfs

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs is advising Meadow Valley residents and others living in low lying areas along the Arkansas River to expect REAL flooding to occur and to take immediate action. The City is advising residents to take immediate actions to remove or protect property from those areas, and to consider a voluntary evacuation by 6:00 p.m. today. There is no mandatory evacuation in place.

With new information this morning from the USACE of dam releases increasing to 215,000 cfs later today and holding there, the City expects portions of the Meadow Valley neighborhood, and potentially others, to flood. This flood event is expected to last for several days. Highway 51 near 137th West Avenue will likely flood, making vehicular traffic there impossible.

Last night the City of Sand Springs declared an emergency disaster proclamation, with actions to take place designed to protect public health, reduce damage and render emergency services to citizens. Officials from Webco Industries have made changes to their operations at the former “STAR” center until this flood event has passed and are closed. Case Community Park remains closed with warnings for citizens not to enter. City Police and Fire crews are working the various scenes around the clock to monitor.

If an American Red Cross emergency shelter is needed later, plans are in place now for that to happen. The City reminds area residents to monitor the City of Sand Springs Face Book page for real time updates.

City of Sand Springs Advising Citizens for Flood Potential

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs is advising area residents, especially those in the Meadow Valley housing neighborhood to brace for the potential of additional flooding. Although the rain event has stopped for now, the lag time for waters upstream of Keystone Dam to reach Sand Springs can delay flooding activities downstream for several hours.

Last night, City of Sand Springs Police and Fire teams reached out (via phone messages and neighborhood visits) to residents in the Meadow Valley neighborhood, along HWY 51 in Sand Springs to alert residents of the potential for flooding. This area, and others in Tulsa County which may not be in City limits but are near the Arkansas River, may be affected by the planned increases in outflows from Keystone Dam later tonight.

In Sand Springs City limits, Case Community Park has now closed until further notice. All sports and trail related activities are cancelled at this site. The Case Community Center (1050 W. Wekiwa Road) however remains open.

The City urges residents to pay attention to street closures and the accompanying traffic barricades that are placed to protect public safety.

This afternoon, the USACE confirms that 100,000 cubic feet/ second (cfs) of water is being currently, with 20,000 cfs increases planned at 2 p.m.; 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., leaving the discharge at that time to be around 160,000 cfs. The USACE will revise dam operations as needed after that.

"Fire on the River" Praise & Worship event set for May 10th in Sand Springs

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In Jesus Name Ministries will be holding its Third Annual Unity Praise event Friday, May 10th in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, and this year it will be at a new venue. Previously held at the Charles Page High School Veterans Memorial Stadium, the nondenominational praise and worship concert will move to the Case Community Park amphitheater.

Unity Praise
7:00 p.m.
May 10th, 2019
Case Community Park
2500 S River City Park Rd
Sand Springs, OK 74063

Unity Praise was founded in 2017 by Jim and Stephanie Schrepel who felt God calling them to help unify the body of Christ in Sand Springs. "God is going to build up Sand Springs to be a spiritual hub in America,” prophesied Jim in 2017.

The concert will begin at 7:00 p.m. Friday night on the Great Lawn, and will run as late as people are wanting to stay. The theme for the 2019 Unity Praise is “Fire on the River.”

“We were inspired to do Fire on the River because of a prophetic word that Chuck Pierce gave at CityPlex Towers back in August,” said Jim Schrepel. “There’s going to be a healing move of the Spirit and it’s going to follow the Arkansas River.”

The Schrepels want to see Sand Springs churches come together as a single body, regardless of denominational differences, to praise God and seek his presence in the community. The seeds of that unity have long been planted and growing for some time now.

Several local pastors gather at monthly Ministerial Alliance meetings which include Catholic, Charismatic, Pentecostal, Baptist churches and more. The Alliance hosts several local events annually and makes substantial donations towards Sand Springs Emergency Responder Christmas bonuses.

But the Ministerial Alliance only represents a handful of churches in a community with dozens of congregations and thousands of Christian believers. The Schrepels want to see all of them come together.

The Shipley family, from Sand Springs, will be performing at the event along with musicians from several local churches. Darin Shipley, a Tulsa Police Officer, is a recording artist with albums and a traveling ministry. His brother Carey plays drums, and his daughters and wife, Pam, are all talented vocalists.

The worship team from The Stronghold church is expected to play, as will a few other groups. In addition to worship music, the event will also have a time of ministry for women since it is taking place on Mother’s Day weekend.

City Council approves measures related to infrastructure and development

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Sand Springs City Manager Elizabeth Gray provided an update on the Sheffield Crossing Development Infrastructure Construction project at Monday evening’s City Council meeting.

The City purchased 18 acres of Highway 97 frontage from OmniTrax in December of 2017, on the former site of the Sheffield Steel Mill, with the intent of constructing a commercial development. City leaders hope to attract a large lumber/hardware store as an anchor for the Sheffield Crossing development.

Craig & Keithline Inc. has developed the initial infrastructure package, including an entry roadway, traffic signals, and storm and water facilities.

Two new traffic signals will be installed on Highway 97 as part of the project. One will be located at the entrance to Sheffield Crossing, and one will be located at the future intersection of the Main Street expansion. That intersection will join Main Street and Highway 97 with the new road planned along the top of the levee in Case Community Park.

Council approved a resolution waiving competitive bidding for certain traffic signal components for the development. The project deadline has already been pushed and the City hopes to save a few weeks on the delivery and installation of the traffic signal poles by purchasing them directly.

Gray commented that the massive piles of demolition rubble currently on the site will be used as filler within the development.

A representative from the City financial department gave an update on capital projects for fiscal year 2019-2020. The Capital Projects Fund will see an increase of $9.6 million in new funding, allocated to the following projects…

  • $50,000 Golf Course Pond Improvements

  • $15,000 Downtown Tree and Sidewalk Replacements

  • $10,000 River West ROW Mowing Contract

  • $100,000 Municipal Building Remodel - Furnishings & Equipment

  • $16,000 Municipal Building Badge System Replacement

  • $7,000 Sheffield Crossing Design Costs

  • $100,000 Traffic Signal Upgrades (Highway 97 Coordination Timing)

  • $25,000 Roadway Striping

  • $10,000 Project Design Assistance

  • $30,000 Speed Humps

  • $400,000 Sheffield Crossing Boulevard

  • $780,000 Street Overlays

  • $550,000 HWY 97T Rehab (Design and Construction)

  • $435,000 81st Weset Avenue Trail Connector (Design and Construction)

  • $100,000 Pratt Interceptor (32nd Street)

  • $20,000 Broadway WL Replacement (Main to Washington)

  • $150,000 WTP Improvements

  • $150,000 Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements (Pumps)

  • $318,000 Highway 97 12” Water Ling

  • $850,000 Sheffield Crossing Water & Wastewater Infrastructure

  • $250,000 SRWCS One-Way Tank

  • $300,000 Charles Page Water BPS Upgrade

  • $300,000 East 41st Street Water BPS Upgrade

  • $150,000 Wastewater Treatment Plant VFD Upgrade

  • $50,000 Arc Flash Electrical Safety Improvements (SRWCS, WTP, WWTP)

  • $250,000 Diamondhead Tank Rehab

  • $30,000 Airport Construction Fund

  • $20,000 Fueling Thermal Upgrades

  • $15,000 Ray Brown Park Stormwater Detention

  • $1.35 million Sheffield Crossing Stormwater Infrastructure

  • $41,000 Golf Course Improvements

  • $140,000 New police vehicles

  • $50,000 Downtown Street Overlays

  • $75,500 Case Park Levee Roadway

  • $250,000 Golf Course Renovations

In other news:

SEE RELATED: City Council approves permits for two new Medical Marijuana Dispensaries

Council approved a resolution declaring the City’s intent to apply for a Community Development Block Grant from Tulsa County Community Development Urban County funds. The City expects to be allocated approximately $94,748 which will be used for a water line replacement project from 4th Street through 6th Street on Lincoln Avenue. The City will be replacing 980 linear feet of 4” cast iron line with 8” PVC line.

One of the conditions for receiving CDBG funds is that recipients must implement an action to further fair housing. To comply, Council unanimously approved a resolution proclaiming April 2019 as Fair Housing Month.

Council unanimously approved $46,769 for the purchase of park amenities from Happy Playgrounds. The funds will provide for five park benches, 30 trash can sets, and 14 picnic tables for Case Park. $6,354 will come from the existing Case Park Project fund, and $40,415 will come from the remaining 2014 GO Bond funds.

Council unanimously approved a resolution affirming Dilapidation Public Nuisance administrative hearing findings for buildings at 104 North Franklin Avenue, 810 1/2 North Franklin Avenue, 313 North Industrial Avenue, and 704 1/2 North Washington Avenue. The resolution authorizes the City to demolish the buildings on or after May 13, 2019 at the expense of the property owner.

Council unanimously approved an expenditure of $5,250 to We B Trees for stump grinding and the planting of five trees in the downtown Triangle District. The funds will be taken from the General Fund Economic Development-Marketing budget.

Council unanimously approved the Final Plat for a single-family gated subdivision on nine acres South of 51st Street and East of Skylane Drive. The Villas at Stone Creek Estates will include 39 lots on two blocks.

Council unanimously approved the appointment of Justin Tockey to the Sand Springs Development Authority for an unexpired term to July 2021. Tockey is a Charles Page High School graduate and U.S. Navy veteran. He has experience as a Development Officer for a Methodist non-profit and is currently pursuing a certification in Financial Planning. He is an active member of the Sand Springs Rotary Club, and has previously participated in the Sertoma Club and the American Legion.

Council unanimously approved the selection of Daniel Bradley as the 2019 recipient of the John M. Hess Municipal Award for Outstanding Citizenship. Bradley retired in 2018 after 38 years with the City. He spend 35 years at the Police Department, working his way up to Chief of Police before transitioning to Assistant City Manager. The award has been presented annually since 2003.

Council unanimously approved an amendment to a Franchise Agreement with CoxCom, LLC for E-911 services. The City has a non-exclusive franchise agreement with Cox for cable services, and the City collects a 5% franchise fee of approximately $220,000 per year. The amendment will provide an extension to the existing agreement for an additional five years.

Council unanimously approved the use of public funds for the following:

  • $2,100 for participation in the Oklahoma Municipal League Conference.

  • $1,310 for participation in the Mayors Council of Oklahoma.

  • $250 for participation in the OneVoice Day at the State Capitol.

  • $360 for participation in Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Open Forums.

  • $250 for participation in Oklahoma Municipal League Day at the Capitol.

  • $1,500 for participation in the Mayoral Council of Oklahoma Board Meetings in Oklahoma City.

  • $3,500 for participation in the Tulsa Metro Chamber Washington D.C. Fly-In.

  • $2,200 to cover administrative expenses for Council/Administrative Workshops and the City Budget Fair.

  • $800 to cover City Manager/City Council Lunch Meetings.

  • $2,000 for membership in the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce.

  • $3,000 for membership in the Tulsa Metro Chamber of Commerce.

  • $535 for membership in the Homebuilders Association.

  • $4,000 for membership in the Indian Nations Council on Government Coalition of Tulsa Area Government.

  • $16,000 for membership in the Oklahoma Municipal League.

  • $500 for membership in the Mayoral Council of Oklahoma.

  • $1,000 for miscellaneous membership dues.

City Calendar:
3/30 Keystone Ancient Forest Open Hike Day
4/4-4/7 Sand Springs Community Theater presents - Aladdin
4/6 Keystone Ancient Forest Hike With Your Dog Day
4/13 30th Annual Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival
5/3 Friday Flicks Outdoor Movies - The Incredibles 2
5/3-5/4 9th Annual OK 100-Mile Yard Sale Tour

Incumbent Patty Dixon re-elected to fourth term on City Council

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Current City Council. (Left to right): Brian Jackson, Beau Wilson, Christine Hamner, Jim Spoon, Mike Burdge, Phil Nollan, Patty Dixon.

Incumbent Sand Springs City Councilwoman Patty Dixon won reelection to the Ward 2 office Tuesday with 88.9% of the vote. Dixon defeated Caleb Nelms 64 votes to 8.

Dixon has served three non-consecutive terms on the council. She served two terms from 1990-1996, and filed unopposed in 2016 to fill a vacant seat.

Dixon’s resume includes stents on the Parks Advisory Board, Museum Association, HEAL Committee, Sertoma Club, and Oklahoma Municipal League. She is a retired employee of the Tulsa County Parks Department and owns Dixon Auto Glass with her husband, Tim. She is also a performer in the local community theater.

Sand Springs Progress Report

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Construction continues on various City projects around Sand Springs. Here are some recent photos of the progress.

Pratt Civitan Park is receiving a restroom building at 213 West 44th Street. Pratt Civitan is home to the only splash pad on the south side of Sand Springs, as well as swings, tennis and basketball courts. A speed hump is also planned for 44th Street in front of the park.

The biggest work site lies in the area of Sheffield Crossing. The City is rebuilding Morrow Road and adding a center turn lane to accommodate the increased traffic expected from the new Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center. Both the road and the facilities will be completed this spring. The center will house municipal jail and courts, a police station, and a fire department.

A new parking lot has been recently completed in Case Community Park at the Rotary Super Splash Pad. The parking lot is located on the other side of the creek from the previous unpaved parking area. A paved parking lot is also in progress at the Jerry Adair Baseball Complex, and new concrete sidewalks have also been constructed.

Other projects on the horizon in Sand Springs include:

  • An observation platform above the tree canopy at the Keystone Ancient Forest.

  • A paved parking lot and visitor’s center at Keystone Ancient Forest.

  • Beautification efforts across the city.

  • A new playground at Angus Valley Park.

  • Main Street will be rebuilt from First Street south to its current terminus at 404 South Main Street. The road will also be extended west to a new intersection at Highway 97.

  • A new frontage road connecting Main Street to the Highway 412 on-ramp at Lincoln Avenue.

  • A new roadway along the Arkansas River levee from Highway 97 west into Case Community Park.

  • The City also has eighteen acres of prime real estate in the Sheffield Crossing Development preserved to incentivize a hardware and lumber store.

Expedia names Sand Springs as Oklahoma's best getaway location

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Sand Springs Lake Park in summer.

Expedia.com, one of the nation’s leading travel websites, has named Sand Springs as the “Best Place To Escape To” in the State of Oklahoma in a recent travel blog.

California-based traveler Lily Rogers recently published the article, titled “Best Place To Escape To In Every State.”

“From quaint small towns to quiet nature preserves, this country is full of places to escape to,” says Rogers. Sand Springs has both, with a homey downtown shopping district and the largest municipally-owned nature preserve in the state.

Rogers references the Keystone Lake, Keystone Ancient Forest, and Shell Lake as reasons for her selection of Sand Springs as the best getaway in Oklahoma.

Keystone Ancient Forest is Sand Springs’s best-kept secret. The 1,360 acre park features 300-year-old post oaks and 500-year-old cedars with wildlife, beautiful scenery, and 4.4 miles of hiking trails. Famed Sleepy Hollow author and explorer Irving Washington even crossed through the area in 1832 and wrote extensively of its beauty and rugged terrain in his journals.

The City of Sand Springs recently passed a general obligation bond measure that will help to fund a visitor’s center and a watch tower that will elevate visitors above the forest canopy in the near future.

The park is only open to visitors on select Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in order to keep the area pristine. Hike With Your Dog days are also scheduled throughout the year, and the forest’s Fourth Annual Ancient Trail Trek is set for February 9th, featuring a 5K, 10K, and fun run.

The Ancient Forest isn’t the only unique natural site in Sand Springs. Visitors can also fish and boat on the Keystone Lake, Shell Lake, and the Arkansas River. Bald Eagles are known to nest at the White Water Off-Road Vehicle Park beneath the Keystone Dam, as well as in Case Community Park and other areas along the Arkansas River.

Two of the most historic sites in Sand Springs are the Sand Springs Lake and Centennial Park on Katy Trail. Centennial Park is the home of the sandy springs from which the town draws its name, and the lake park was once a weekend swimming destination for Tulsa-area families from the 1920s through 1950s. Now it is a quaint fishing hole with ADA-friendly walking trails.

Visitors have numerous lodging options in Sand Springs, including modern downtown hotels near the historic Triangle District, riverside RV parks, cabins at the Osage Forest of Peace, and the PostOak Lodge with its zip lines, disc golf, fishing, hiking, and more.

Art connoisseurs will enjoy the Shiny Happy Blue Dog exhibit by George Rodrigue, currently making its Oklahoma debut at the Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum, and numerous vibrant murals around the town. The Rodrigue exhibit will be on display through February, and numerous other events are on the horizon, guaranteed to give visitors a great time.

Sand Springs Event Calendar:

February 3rd - Fourth Annual Ancient Trail Trek
April 13th - Thirtieth Annual Herbal Affair & Festival
May 4th-5th - 100 Mile Yard Sale
May 10th - Third Annual Unity Praise concert
May 30th - June 1st - Eighth Annual Chillin & Grillin Festival
June - 29th Annual Kids’ Free Fishing Derby
June - Eighth Annual Big Blast Fireworks Show & Kids Fun Fest
June - Tenth Annual EuroMotor Extravaganza
July 3rd - Third Annual Riverfest and Sertoma Fireworks Show
September 2nd - 24th Annual Great Raft Race
October - Ninth Annual Boo on Broadway
November through December - Snapped In Sand Springs
November - Tenth Annual 2 Angels Toy Run
November - Third Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 6th-8th - Second Annual Hometown Holiday Christmas Celebration

To view the complete list of Best Places to Escape To, visit Expedia.com.

4th Annual Ancient Trail Trek to benefit Keystone Ancient Forest Visitors Center

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs Parks and Recreation Department and TATUR (Tulsa Area Trails and Ultra Runners) invite runners of all ages to the magnificent Keystone Ancient Forest for the 4th Annual Ancient Trail Trek! This year's event is Saturday, February 9, 2019 with gates opening at 7:00 a.m. and the first race at 8:00 a.m.

Event registration and information can be found at the City’s website at www.sandspringsok.org. Use the Explore/ Keystone Ancient Forest/ Ancient Trail Trek drop down menus to access the registration site. Registration is online only, and runners must register before the midnight deadline on February 7, 2019.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the beautiful 1,400-acre crosstimbers nature preserve, including the planned visitor center, which is currently in design.

This year's Ancient Fun Run offers a 5K, 10K and even an 8-mile run for both adults and children. The varied courses will meander over grassy trail portions, bare soil and rock. Routes will challenge runners with some downhill glides and moderate uphill challenges! Runners can glimpse wintertime views of Keystone Lake below, and might even spot area wildlife along the course!

"We’ve partnered with the TATUR group again and so we’ll have the standard electronic timing devices for accuracy and convenience for runners,” stated Jeff Edwards, Parks Director for the City of Sand Springs. "We’ve got several great courses this year and feel we have one of the best trail running venues in Oklahoma."

The race fee (including registration) is $28.00 per runner without an event T-shirt, or $40.50 per runner with an event T-shirt. Gates will open at 7:00 a.m. on the day of the race, with the first race beginning at 8:00 a.m.

Park staff and members of the Keystone Ancient Forest Trail Guide (volunteer) group will be on site to help with water and hospitality after the race. Parking is on gravel and grassy areas with porta potty service. No pets allowed.

With proceeds from this year’s race, again going towards the Keystone Ancient Forest- this year’s event can help with the planned visitor center also! The concept for the forest’s new state of the art facility will be unveiled just weeks before the race event!

Tulsa Botanic Garden unveils new Garden of Lights event

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[Tulsa, OK] — Tulsa Botanic Garden is offering an illuminated garden escape from the holiday hustle and bustle with a new event, Garden of Lights, running from Nov. 23 to Jan. 6. Visitors will be able to stroll through whimsical displays in the Children’s Discovery Garden and enjoy elegant views and dazzling lights in the A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces and other areas of the Garden.

“Being in the Garden any night is wonderful, but with the light display we’ve created with our designer, it’s just magical,” says Garden CEO Todd Lasseigne. “The path through the Children’s Discovery Garden includes fun surprises along the walk and a soundscape created by a Tulsa musician especially for that area. We also have the traditional music and colors for the holidays in the Tandy Floral Terraces. With all of the activities going on, there’s really something for everyone.”

Every night of the event warm beverages and s’mores kits will be available for sale in the “Holiday Hearth” area located near the Garden’s visitor center. Fire pits will be available for roasting marshmallows. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 22, a food truck and cash bar with seasonal warm drinks will also be available.

From Dec. 7 to 14, a large scale model train exhibit by the Tulsa Garden Railroad Club will be in the Garden’s Mabee Grange building. Members of the Railroad Club will be staffing the 1,200 sq. ft. display nightly from 5 to 9 p.m.

The schedule of activities during Garden of Lights also includes:

Wednesdays with St. Nick: Every Wednesday from Nov. 28 to Dec. 19, the Garden’s “botanical” Saint Nick will be available for informal visits and photos from 6 to 9 p.m. (bring your camera).

Musical Thursdays: Each Thursday, from Nov. 29 to Dec. 20 enjoy live music from talented Tulsans including:

·         Nov. 29, 6-8 p.m.: Holiday Gypsy Jazz with David Horne and Friends

·         Dec. 6, 6-7 p.m.: Bravo School of Performing Arts; 7-9 p.m.: Cascia Hall Singers

·         Dec. 13: TBA

·         Dec. 20, 6-8 p.m.: Harpist Lorelei Barton

Holiday Express Train Rides: Every Friday and Saturday from Nov. 23 to Dec. 22, you can take a train ride to see the lights from across the Garden’s Lake. Free with admission.

Tickets are $15 for ages 13+ and $5 for ages 3-12. Children 2 and under are free. Members of the Botanic Garden receive discounted pricing of $10 for ages 13+.  Tickets are limited each night and pre-purchasing is highly advised.  Tickets can be purchased online at www.tulsabotanic.org/gardenoflights, in person in the Garden’s visitor center or by phone at 918-289-0330.

During the event, the Botanic Garden will alter its daytime hours closing at 3 p.m. (instead of 5 p.m.) Tuesday through Sunday. The Garden will be closed Dec. 24 and 25 and only open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Jan. 1.

Sponsors for 2018 Garden of Lights include Closebend, ePumps, GableGotwals, Triad Eye Institute, Osage Casino Hotel, Premier Advisors Group, Public Service Company of Oklahoma and T.D. Williamson. Drs. James & Samuel Owens Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry, Howell & Vancuren, Proceeds from the event help support the Garden, a non-profit organization.

For more details on Garden of Lights events, visit www.TulsaBotanic.org/GardenofLights or call 918-289-0330.

ABOUT US:

Tulsa Botanic Garden is an all-season oasis blooming in the Osage Hills northwest of Tulsa.  The A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces feature over 8,000 plants with seasonal beds, beautiful art deco designs and water features, and a spectacular spring display of over 100,000 bulbs. The Children’s Discovery Garden is a wonderland of interactive fun for the whole family including the iconic Spring Giant, spitting animal fountains, carnivorous plants, Sensory Walk, whirligigs, and the Tree Fort where the canopy provides a natural backdrop for storytelling and imaginative play. The Lakeside Promenade gracefully encompasses a seven-acre lake, and the Cross Timbers Trail provides a 1.5 mile hike through the trees. Admission:  Free for members, $8 for ages 13 and up, $4 for ages 3-12, and free for ages 2 and under.  Memberships are available beginning at $50. Tulsa Botanic Garden is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. For more information, call 918-289-0330 or visit www.tulsabotanic.org.

Sand Springs Parks Dept. receives State honors for Riverfest celebration

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs Parks staff received two statewide honors during the Oklahoma Recreation and Parks Society (ORPS) annual conference held in Norman, OK. Sand Springs Riverfest was cited an Award of Excellence by parks professionals in the state, one of only three such awards given out annually at the parks conference. Riverfest also earned an Award of Excellence for marketing from ORPS.

“We’re honored to represent the citizens of Sand Springs, not only in our traditional park work throughout the year, but also with the special events we create,” stated Jeff Edwards, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City. “We have a great staff who reach beyond their daily tasks to offer quality parks and recreation services in Northeast Oklahoma, and we’re very pleased to receive this honor.”

Riverfest was created by parks staff to celebrate the completion and dedication of the former River City Park into the new $6.2 million project known currently as Case Community Park. The park name change recognized Mike and Pat Case for their $2 million contribution toward Sand Springs’ largest Vision 2025 park project.

Sand Springs Riverfest took nearly a year of planning thanks to a large committee that included local businesses, school and city officials, church members, and more. The event was held in September of 2017 after raising nearly $30,000 for the park celebration.

A few highlights of the day included an appearance by Sand Springs racing legend Bennie “The Wizard” Osborn, who was the NHRA top fuel dragster world champion in 1967 and 1968. The OKC Thunder’s mascot, Rumble, made an entrance, and helped kick off a Thunder Cares new basketball court dedication and basketball camp for kids. There was an artistic Chalk-A-Thon sidewalk art-chalk contest. A few former cast members from the live outdoor production of Oklahoma performed a brief segment from the musical. The Charles Page High School marching band performed on stage before the Rogues Five took over, followed by local interactive DJ Morgan Ganem’s performance, which was choreographed with the grand finale fireworks display.

Sand Springs Riverfest was awarded state ORPS honors for its excellent use of private funds to create the event for citizens; the strong use of volunteers; utilizing creative marketing methods and offering a diverse number of activities for people during the event.

“Special events can be a struggle for any community and they can consume large amounts of resources,” stated Edwards. “The resources, funding, and commitments from local civic groups, businesses, churches and more launched Riverfest into an award winning quality event.”

For more information on the Sand Springs Parks and Recreation Department visit www.sandspringsok.org and follow them on Facebook.

ORPS was founded in 1956 to advance the parks and recreation profession and industry in Oklahoma. Annual conference attendees receive professional training, continuing education credits and more. For more information about ORPS visit: http://www.orps.us/

Pokemon Go updates: Halloween festivities, new legendaries, and latest nest rotation

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It’s been a busy couple of weeks for Pokemon Go players. From Generation Four Pokemon to Halloween quests, Community Day, and more - there’s no shortage of opportunities to catch ‘em all.

New Generation Four Pokemon Drifloon and Stunky can now be found in the wild, including their evolutions and a shiny variation of Drifloon.

Spiritomb can be unlocked through the Special Research quests entitled, “A Spooky Message.” This is the third special research series, and the first non-mythical reward, meaning we can likely expect more story-line quests in the future.

From October 23rd through November 20th trainers will be able to battle Legendary Ghost-Dragon Giratina at five-star raids. This also means MewTwo will be leaving the raid roster for the time being.

These new additions bring the available Sinnoh roster to 32 of the 107 total Pokemon. We are still awaiting Kecleon, Jirachi, and the Clamperl and Nincada families from Hoenn, as well as Smeargle from Johto.

For the duration of October you’ll see a large boost in spawn rates of ghost and dark-type pokemon, many of whom have shiny variations. All caught-pokemon will reward double their normal amount of candy until November 1st at 1:00 p.m. PDT. The witch-hat adorned Pichu, Pikachu, and Raichu are back for the rest of the month, and now they can be shiny for the first time.

Beldum was featured as the Community Day Pokemon of the Month for October. Cyndaquil will be the next star, with his shiny variation being introduced Saturday, November 10th. From 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. CST trainers will see increased Cyndaquil spawns and will receive double stardust and double XP for all catches. Additionally, Quilava evolved during the event will have an as of yet unannounced exclusive move.

Suicine spotted at Case Community Park in Sand Springs.

Meltan, the new mythical Pokemon that will be unveiled along with Nintendo Switch, was also revealed to be the first-ever mythical Pokemon capable of evolution. When “Pokemon Let’s Go! Eevee” and “Let’s Go! Pikachu” are released on November 16, 2018, trainers will be able to link the Switch games with their Pokemon Go accounts for trading in order to unlock Meltan in both games. Its evolved form, Melmetal, will only be able to evolve in Pokemon Go, but can then be traded to the Switch games.

Trainers will have until November 1st to complete their weekly research tasks and catch a Suicune. The November research pokemon has yet to be announced by Niantic.

Finally, the nest at Case Community Park in Sand Springs has changed to Staryu. Nests typically rotate every other Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. local time, but will likely change again at the end of the Halloween event next Thursday.

Case Park is the only confirmed nest in Sand Springs at press time, but other known nesting locations include the Sand Springs Lake and Pratt Civitan Park.

Other nests in the Tulsa area include:

  • Chimchar - Mitchell Park

  • Electabuzz - Dennis Troyer Park

  • Pinsir - Riverside Park

  • Magmar - Jackson Park

  • Scyther - Nienhuis Park

*These nesting reports are courtesy of “TPG - Tulsa Pokemon Go” on Facebook.

Case Park is the flagship of the Sand Springs Parks Department and features 100 acres of fun for the whole family. Facilities include the Case Community Center, Jerry Adair Baseball Complex, Roger Bush Soccer Complex, Will Ramsey Softball Complex, Rotary Super Splash Pad, four sets of playground equipment, an 18-hole disc golf course, a BMX track, Arkansas River access, horsehoe pits, a Thunder Cares basketball court, volleyball courts, a skate park, and a 1.8 mile trail system. Pokemon trainers will find prolific nesting, seven pokestops, and two ex-raid gyms.

Helpful links:

TPG - Tulsa Pokemon Go Facebook

Sand Springs Pokemon Go Club Facebook

Pokemon Go Excel Checklist

City Council accepts bids for Case Park parking lots and Keystone Forest visitor center designs

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The Sand Springs City Council approved several measures relating to City parks and other capital improvement projects at their Monday evening meeting.

Council unanimously approved a contract with Studio 45 Architects relating to the Keystone Ancient Forest. The City will pay the company $40,000 to design a small visitor center at the forest preserve. The visitor center project was approved by voters as part of a 2017 general obligation bond package. The design phase is expected to be completed by Spring of 2019 and will then go to bid for construction.

Council also voted to approve a bid from R&L Construction in the amount of $473,911.00 for a paved parking lot expansion and new sidewalk at Case Community Park. The project will pave an existing 175-spot gravel parking lot at the Jerry Adair Baseball Park, and will add a 36-space lot at the Rotary Super Splash Pad. The project will also include curbs and guttering.

Council approved a six-year Capital Improvement Plan for Pogue Municipal Airport. The City plans to invest $3,830,000 in drainage improvements and taxiway rehabilitation.

Council approved a payment of $64,045.00 to Tim Mills Fence Company for a large section of white vinyl fencing installed along the Sand Springs Expressway.

Council approved a $30,100.00 expenditure to Mills Truck & Tractor Service Inc. for a storm pipe replacement project at the intersection of 2nd Street and Lincoln Avenue. The project is expected to take approximately 2-3 weeks to complete.

Council approved the purchase of 911 Police/Fire Dispatch Consoles for the Billie A. Hall Public Safety Facility in the amount of $49,166.00.

Council approved a resolution of Notice of Election for City Council Wards 1 & 2. Phil Nollan and Patty Dixon will be up for reelection in 2019. The filing period is set for December 3-5. The primary election, if needed, will be held on February 12, 2019. The general election, if needed, will be held on April 2nd.

Halloween festivities for all ages coming soon in Sand Springs

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It’s officially costume season in Sand Springs, beginning this Thursday. Churches, bars, and other organizations in Sand Springs will be putting on Halloween festivities for all ages.

The Sand Springs Pumpkin Patch at 17516 West 8th Street is open every day in October from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Pleasant Valley Farms at 22350 West 71st Street is open every Sunday through Thursday in October from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

The Third Annual Monster Ball softball game will pit the Charles Page High School baseball and softball teams against each other in a costumed slow pitch fundraiser for Sandite Special Olympics. The Lady Sandites won the inaugural event and the baseball team tied the series with an 8-7 victory last year. The game was originally scheduled for Thursday October 25th at 6:00 p.m. at the Sand Springs Softball Complex at 408 West 55th Street. Due to rain it has been postponed till Tuesday, October 30th. Tickets are $3 for students and $5 for adults.

Tulsa Community College will be hosting their annual Westfest at the 7505 West 41st Street Sand Springs campus Thursday, October 25th from 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Admission cost is one canned food item. There will be free games and inflatables, $1.00 hot dogs, and a spook trail for $2.00. The Spastic Cow Food Truck will also be on hand.

TCC will also hold a student costume contest Wednesday, October 31st from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Student Union with prizes for scariest, funniest, and most creative.

The Salvation Army Boys' and Girls Club will be holding a Fall Festival Thursday, October 25th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 4403 South 129th West Avenue. It will feature a costume contest, carnival games, inflatables, and a cake walk. It will be $5 per child.

Keystone Public School will be holding a Fall Festival Friday, October 26th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m with food, candy, and games at 23810 West Highway 51.

Chandler Park Community Center will host a Halloween Night Party Friday, October 26th from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at 6500 West 21st Street with hip hop, pop, and electronic dance music. There will be a dance challenge with a cash prize, and D.J. Luc Da Shine will be shooting a live music video.

M&M’s Ole Time Tavern is holding their Halloween Party Friday, October 26th at 9:00 p.m. with live music from Ronnie Pyle and the Drivers at 13906 West Highway 51.

Garden Heights Free Will Baptist Church will be holding a Fall Festival at 3415 Summit Boulevard, Saturday, October 27th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Next Door Bar & Grill at 6430 Charles Page Boulevard is holding a Halloween party on Saturday October 27th with a costume contest and karaoke.

The Office on Main’s 5th Annual Halloween Bash is Saturday, October 27th at 9:00 p.m. at 109 North Main Street. There will be door prizes, a 50/50 drawing, karaoke, a DJ, and a costume contest with cash prizes.

The Sand Springs Ministerial Alliance will be hosting their Eighth Annual Boo on Broadway festival in the downtown Triangle District Sunday, October 28th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. There will be adult, child, and pet costume contests at the beginning of the event, as well as inflatables, competitions, games, face-painting, and more.

Reach Church, HillSpring Church, Church That Matters, New Life Tabernacle, Sand Springs Church of the Nazarene, Harvest Church, Solace Church, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, CrossPoint Church, Olivet Baptist Church, and First United Methodist Church all participate in the Ministerial Alliance.

HillSpring Associate Pastor Matt Barnett says he expects more than a hundred volunteers from those organizations, and a few dozen businesses participating as well. Anyone looking to get involved and help can email Barnett at Matt.Barnett@hillspring.tv. Last year’s festival attracted more than 3,000 visitors.

Any businesses or organizations participating in the event are also encouraged to make a donation towards Christmas bonuses for the Sand Springs Police and Fire Departments. The Ministerial Alliance donates several thousand dollars worth of gift cards to both departments every year.

Angus Church is hosting a Fall Carnival Wednesday, October 31st from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 4401 South 129th West Avenue. There will be free games, inflatables, trunk-or-treating, door prizes, free food, and a live classic rock show from Ronnie Pyle and the Drivers.

Broadway Baptist Church at 1000 North Adams Road will be hosting a Fall Festival October 31st from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with games, candy, food, prizes, and more.

CrossPoint Church is hosting the DreamLand Family Fall Festival October 31st from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 4600 South 129th West Avenue with games, inflatables, and a petting zoo.

Sand Springs Church of Christ will have a Trunk or Treat event October 31st from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at 4301 South 113th West Avenue. Sand Springs United Methodist Church will have a Trunk or Treat from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 319 North Main Street.

Are we missing your event? Email us details at SanditePrideNews@gmail.com

Sand Springs City Council passes Morrow Road widening project

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The Sand Springs City Council unanimously approved a resolution to begin the Morrow Road Widening Project at their Monday evening regular meeting.

Council awarded the $1.407 million bid to Crossland Heavy Contractors. The existing two-lane asphalt section of Morrow Road between Highway 97 and Broad Street will be completely removed, the sanitary sewer main will be relocated, and a new three-lane road will be constructed with a central turn lane. The City hopes to have the project completed in time for the opening of the Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center in the Spring of 2019.

The new public safety facility is under construction in the 400 block of West Morrow Road in the Sheffield Crossing development. It will be approximately 40,000 square feet and will house Police, Fire, Municipal Court, Jail, Emergency Operations Center and 911 Communications operations. 

Council also approved a contract with GH2 Architects for the remodel design and conceptual master planning of the current Sand Springs Municipal Building in the downtown Triangle District, and for construction oversight of the project. The Municipal Building will continue to house administrative, financial, human resources, marketing, planing and zoning, and other departments.

In Other News:

Council unanimously voted in favor of an honorary street naming in recognition of Webco Industries founder, William Weber. Webco is the largest employer in Sand Springs.

Council unanimously approved the installation of tower grounding and antenna systems for the Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center. Total Radio Inc. will execute the project for $34,644.

Council unanimously voted to purchase a 2017 Peterbilt 348 Series dump truck in the amount of $117,000.

Council unanimously approved an ordinance amending licensing requirements for sale of alcoholic beverages.

Council unanimously approved the use of the 2018 Community Development Block Grant for a project in Ray Brown Park. The $94,748.11 grant will be used for a paved walking trail through the park from 10th Street to 6th Street, as well as a swing set and ADA-accessible playground equipment.

Church That Matters holds Be The Church Sunday, helps out around Sand Springs

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Church That Matters cleared a large section of overgrowth at the Case Community Park boat ramp in preparation for the Great Raft Race.

Church That Matters decided to “be The Church” this Sunday instead of having church. Forgoing their regular morning service, around 200 volunteers spread out across the Sand Springs mission field to make an impact in the lives of their fellow Sandites.

Church crews spent part of the morning at DaySpring Villa, a shelter for victims of sex trafficking and domestic abuse, painting, cleaning, weeding, landscaping, and holding a worship encounter for the residents.

Church That Matters has a big focus on house churches and holding small weekly get togethers in a more personal setting. One of those house churches, located on Nassau Avenue in Tulsa, held a free block party on Nassau Ave to share the gospel and make their neighbors feel welcome. Another group held a cookout and mini Vacation Bible School session at Shannon Valley Mobile Home Park.

Case Community Park is preparing for the annual Great Raft Race, set to launch on Labor Day morning. Church crews prepped the boat ramp area for both participants and viewers, improving the beach and clearing overgrowth.

At Sand Springs Care Closet workers helped sort through clothing and other donations. They also did landscaping and gardening at Clyde Boyd Middle School, where the church got its start. After meeting for several years in the middle school auditorium, the church gave back by cleaning up the grounds before the new school year starts.

Crews handed out free quarters and detergent at the Prattville Laundromat and helped wash cars and paid for cleaning at Bubbletown Car Wash.

One group helped a client of Sand Springs Community Services by building her home a wheelchair ramp.

Finally, a large group will be volunteering at the annual Sand Springs Ministerial Alliance Back 2 School Bash at Tulsa Tech’s Sand Springs Campus from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. In addition to fun activities like inflatables and food, there will also be free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, dental checkups, and flu shots.  Tulsa Tech is located at 924 East Charles Page Boulevard.

Church That Matters meets Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. at 3 West 41st Street. For more information visit https://www.churchthatmatters.com/

Astronomy Night at Keystone Ancient Forest set for Friday July 20

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs Parks Department along with the Broken Arrow Sidewalk Astronomers and the Keystone Ancient Forest Trail Guides invite the general public to a rare astronomy night on Friday, July 20. The gates open late at 9:30 p.m. and guests will be allowed to stay until after midnight. There will be NO hiking during this event. Trails will be closed.

An evening of star and planet gazing (weather permitting) is planned for this free event thanks to the help of the Broken Arrow Sidewalk Astronomers. This group will share as many as six high-performance telescopes (transportable) which range in size from 4-18 inch glass diameter to view the planets and stars. A brief introduction on astronomy will begin at 9:30 p.m., with viewing happening until the event concludes after midnight.

"This is a great opportunity for people to enjoy the Keystone Ancient Forest in a unique way," stated Jeff Edwards, Parks Director for the City of Sand Springs. "Even though it will be a late night to see the heavens, this is a great summer event for kids and families."

Astronomy activities will require a night free of cloudy overcast. For the latest updates on this and other hiking events, please follow the Keystone Ancient Forest FaceBook page. Pets are not allowed for this event. Porta potty service is available.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs Parks Department, contact their offices Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at (918) 246-2561 or visit www.sandspringsok.org.

Sand Springs Spirit Grant Workshop Set for July 30

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs recently announced a Spirit Grant workshop on July 30, at 7 p.m. at the Case Community Center (1050 W. Wekiwa Rd.) in Sand Springs. The workshop is free and open to the public. Following a brief overview of the City's new Spirit Grant program guests are invited to ask questions and learn more about for this new local economic development grant program.

Earlier this week, the City announced the Spirit Grant- a competitive grant program intended to boost economic development in Sand Springs. The program is looking for new events or projects and expansions of existing events or projects to primarily generate sales tax and tourism in the community. Community beautification and quality of life projects in Sand Springs are also eligible.

Spirit Grant projects can range from as little as $500 to projects costing $5,000 or more. With that range in mind, the grant amount will range from $400 to a maximum of $4,000 for any single grant award. Once the project has been completed, the applicant may submit original invoices for reimbursement from the City.

Examples of types of Spirit Grant awards include:

  • advertising and marketing expenses designed to attract and draw tourism to Sand Springs
  • group advertising campaign to support local merchants that results in more local sales
  • community cleanup efforts
  • special event designed to increase tourism to Sand Springs
  • exterior building facade upgrade (awning/painting/landscaping/lighting of business workplace to improve outward appearance)
  • group project to provide new community facilities or improvements to existing
  • public art (murals, statuary, etc.)
  • historical interpretation or other displays relating to Sand Springs

Grant applications will be reviewed by the City. Successful grant applications will be graded on many factors, with a focus on each grant's potential to add value to the community.

For additional information, please visit our website at www.sandspringsok.org or contact the Spirit Grant Team at (918) 246-2504 or spiritgrant@sandspringsok.org

Small Business Coalition brings singing competition to downtown Sand Springs

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Think you could be the best vocalist in the Sand Springs area? 

The Sand Springs Small Business Coalition resuscitated the popular First Tuesday on the Triangle concert series in June, and in August they're continuing the festivities with the first ever "Sand Springs Sings" competition.

Preliminary contests will be held on August 7th, September 4th, and October 2nd, and the finalists from each month will go head to head in the championship round on Saturday, November 24th. 

Contestants will perform outdoors in the heart of the historic downtown Triangle District. The competition is $10.00 to enter and free to watch. The winner will take home a trophy and a $500 cash prize. The contest is open to individuals, duos, and groups of any age or genre. 

The SSSBC hopes the series will attract both locals and visitors who don't typically spend much time in downtown. In addition to coalition businesses such as Yesterday To Now Antiques and Art Mall, The Harvest World Market, and Joni's on the Triangle Hair Salon, there will also be multiple food trucks and local vendors on hand. Those three businesses will have physical entry forms available at their shops.

Sand Springs has a long history of producing talented musicians. The Rogues Five saw regional acclaim in the 1960's and played alongside bands like Jim Morrison and The Doors. Sam Harris won Star Search in 1983 and has since recorded several albums and appeared on Broadway. Jake Tankersley appeared on American Idol and is currently producing his second album. Christian rock band Capitol Lights recorded two albums. 

Morgan Ganem recorded two albums with the band Sownds, had a song adopted as an unofficial anthem of the Kansas City Chiefs, has released two solo albums, and has a residency at Safari Joe's H2O water park in Tulsa. Darin Shipley, Jennifer Marriott, Shelby Eicher, Janet Rutland, and Hannah Rose have all released albums in recent years, and Jacob Dement has a residency at Margaritaville in Tulsa. 

City of Sand Springs announces Spirit Grant program

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs announces the creation of the Spirit Grant program, a competitive grant program intended to boost economic development in Sand Springs. Spirit Grants are designed to enhance local retail sales, tourism and strengthen community development and beautification in Sand Springs. There will be a Spirit Grant workshop later this month, with grant applications becoming available on the City of Sand Springs website (www.sandpspringsok.org) August 1.

"We're not giving money away, however this program comes close as long as we have strong projects to consider. These grants will be a strong incentive for local citizens, clubs and business to make a positive impact on our community in a short amount of time,"  stated Grant Gerondale, Community Development Director for the City of Sand Springs.

Grant applications may be submitted by individuals, businesses or groups to partially fund programs or projects designed to attract people to Sand Springs to shop, dine or recreate in the City of Sand Springs. Applications can also be submitted to enhance the outward appearance of buildings, businesses or other places in the greater Sand Springs community.

Applicants will need to commit to a 20% cash contribution in order to potentially receive an 80% Spirit Grant award from the City, which combined, will create the total grant award amount. Once the project has been completed, the applicant may submit original invoices for reimbursement from the City. Grant applications will be accepted on a quarterly basis and reviewed by city staff.

The program is looking for new events or projects and expansions of existing events or projects to primarily generate sales tax and tourism in our community. Community beautification and quality of life projects in Sand Springs are also eligible.  Projects should have a positive financial impact on the City. Ideally, projects should add value to the community in light of the cost of the grant.

"We're looking forward to seeing some great concepts and ideas from our citizens," stated Gerondale, who invites the public to attend a Spirit Grant workshop happening at 7 p.m. on July 30, at the Case Community Center. 

Successful grant applicants (upon written notice by the city) will have one year to complete the grant project and submit for reimbursement. Projects can be completed before the one year deadline, however projects not completed within the deadline risk reimbursement of funds.

Spirit Grant projects can range from as little as $500 to projects costing $5,000 or more. With that range in mind, the grant amount (80% of the total project which is reimbursable to applicants by the city) will range from $400 to a maximum of $4,000 for any single grant award. 

An applicant may receive more than one award per fiscal year, and may submit an application over multiple years.

Examples of types of Spirit Grant awards include:

  • advertising and marketing expenses designed to attract and draw tourism to Sand Springs
  • group advertising campaign to support local merchants that results in more local sales
  • community cleanup efforts
  • special event designed to increase tourism to Sand Springs
  • exterior building facade upgrade (awning/painting/landscaping/lighting of business workplace to improve outward appearance)
  • group project to provide new community facilities or improvements to existing
  • public art (murals, statuary, etc.)
  • historical interpretation or other displays relating to Sand Springs

Grant applications will be reviewed by the City. Successful grant applications will be graded on many factors, with a focus on each grant's potential to add value to the community.

For additional information, please visit our website at www.sandspringsok.org or contact the Spirit Grant Team at (918) 246-2504 or spiritgrant@sandspringsok.org

Sand Springs Riverfest and Sertoma Fireworks set for July 3rd at Case Community Park

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The City of Sand Springs announced plans for the Second Annual Riverfest celebration Monday. The festival, launched in 2017 to commemorate the Grand Opening of Case Community Park, will be moved forward from September to July 3rd to coincide with the Sand Springs Sertoma Club's 21st Annual Independence Day Fireworks Show. 

"This is a family friendly event, and we want to invite people from around the Sand Springs area to come to the park, relax and enjoy a fun evening," stated Jeff Edwards, Parks Director for the City of Sand Springs. "We're truly excited to share the great lawn with everyone this year. If you've not seen it, we think you're really going to agree that this special lawn was designed for nights like this."

The annual Sertoma Club fireworks show was canceled in 2017 for the first time in its twenty-year history, due to a $6 million renovation of the park, then known as River City Park. 

Case Community Park, named for community philanthropist Mike Case, features a hundred acres of activities, including baseball, soccer, and softball complexes, a BMX track, beach volleyball, a splash pad, playground equipment, walking/biking trails, a disc golf course, Arkansas River access, fishing, horseshoe pits, a Thunder Cares basketball court, the Case Community Center, and Harper's Hut Shaved Ice. 

In addition to the usual park perks, Riverfest will also bring inflatables, live music, food trucks, and other activities. 

The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with food and free activities in the park. A patriotic bike parade (decorate your bike) kicks off at 8 p.m. near the park entrance and will lead toward the great lawn.

This will be the second year for the Independence Day Bicycle Parade, the brainchild of Joni's On The Triangle hair salon owner Joanna Sporleder. Police Chief Mike Carter organized the event to provide a family-friendly festival in lieu of the canceled Sertoma Fireworks Show. 

The Sand Springs Community Band will perform on the stage of the great lawn as the sun begins to set over the Arkansas River. Fireworks will start shortly after local sunset at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Guests are invited to travel to the park by motorized vehicle and bring lawn chairs and blankets for a picnic style evening on the great lawn. The great lawn is a two-acre well-manicured, high-performance Bermuda turf lawn with an open air stage.

Porta potties and restrooms are available. Pets are allowed but Parks staff reminds guests to please keep them on a leash. The park is also a tobacco-free zone.