Senate District 37 candidate Rick Hardesty speaks at community forum

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Rick Hardesty, a Republican candidate for Senate District 37, spoke at the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce candidate forum at Tulsa Technology Center Monday morning in Sand Springs.

The following is a transcript of his opening remarks. Candidates were given a five-minute time limit, followed by a question and answer session.

"What I'm hearing is, we need to get our schools better funding. We need to get more money into our education system. To me that makes sense as a small business owner in needing to have a viable workforce and things like that...The reason I started running, the main reason, was I sat and watched...and they have practically closed every school over there and it kind of got me angry.

Normally I'm not that politically involved, but after seeing all this going on I decided that our legislators that we currently have in Oklahoma City aren't really doing the job that they're supposed to be doing. That's looking out for the best interests of our state, not just a few corporate entities. 

The reason I think I can do a fairly good job over there is that I also do real estate, and in real estate we negotiate stuff every day. That's what real estate is. If I take a contract with a customer to sell their house or sell their business, I'm gonna get them the exact highest price we can get. And vice-versa. If I'm working with a buyer, I'm going to get them a property as cheap as I can. So every day, we're negotiating and I'm good at it. 

It's gonna take the citizens in the community to get together with public forums and let them know exactly how you feel.

We have over 75 different business tax incentives in Oklahoma in the name of promoting new business. They're not working. Very few of them give us a return on our investment and that's by their own studies. We have a tax incentive commission and they randomly pick different ones. And of the last report they did, ten out of the eleven that they did had a negative impact on our state. The businesses that are taking advantage of the tax incentives are the larger corporate people who are trying to hit a home run. 

I think that we had the opportunity to get our horizontal well drilling credit back to 7% and we missed out on it. In Oklahoma they've been paying 1%. Now it's 2%, which is far below the national average. If they go to Texas they're going to pay 11-13%. If they go to North Dakota they're going to pay 13%. In Oklahoma they pay 2%. I think it's time to do away with that. That was set up in times for if oil prices dropped below $15 per barrel. That's costing us hundreds of millions of dollars a year that could go toward other things. 

In all the surveys that are taken to attract businesses into Oklahoma, good education system was the number one answer to attract corporations and companies to start businesses in Oklahoma. It's not tax incentives. We need to get our priorities straight, put money back where it matters. That's my goal."

Word of Life church paints, cleans up Limestone Elementary

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Photo courtesy of Micah Felts.

More than eighty members of Word of Life church in Sand Springs turned out for a work day at Limestone Technology Academy Sunday afternoon.

The event was the first of many service days the church will be hosting at local public schools. After four years of hosting a free community carnival, the church decided to focus on a series of projects to help the community rather than one big event.

Workers spent several hours after church painting the gymnasium, cafeteria, and other rooms, as well as cleaning up and improving the school's landscaping.

The first day of school for Sand Springs students will be Tuesday, August 22nd.

Word of Life is located at 1402 N. 81st W. Ave. and is pastored by Chad Stewart. The church has been meeting in Sand Springs since 1981. Click here to visit their website.

House Representative Jadine Nollan appointed as State Director for NFWL

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ALEXANDRIA, VA – Representative Jadine Nollan has been selected to serve in leadership for the nation’s oldest non-partisan organization addressing the needs of elected women at all levels of government.

Nollan was recently appointed to serve as the 2017 Oklahoma State Director for the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL).

“I am excited and feel very honored to have the opportunity to serve as the Oklahoma State Director for the National Foundation for Women Legislators and look forward to working with the organization to help promote leadership development and effective governance at the state, county and municipal level. This organization serves as a valuable resource for women in elected positions and I am pleased to have been appointed to serve in this capacity.”

“We are so proud Representative Nollan has accepted a leadership position in our Foundation,” stated Minnesota State Senator Carrie Ruud, NFWL’s 2017 Chair. “NFWL’s theme for 2017 is leadership, and Representative Nollan exemplifies this theme. She will play a key role in aiding elected women in Oklahoma, as we continue to grow as an organization.”

Nollan begins serving in her new position immediately and will hold this office through the end of 2018.

Sand Springs park officials announce details for upcoming Riverfest event

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Sand Springs Parks Department officials held a press event Tuesday morning at River City Park to announce the details of the upcoming Riverfest event. The park will be officially rededicated as "Case Community Park" with a Grand Opening celebration on Saturday, September 9th. City Council members will be on hand along with Mike and Pat Case, who donated $2 million to the park renovation.

"For those of you that don't know Mike Case, you should because he is a fantastic guy. He stands behind the community," said I.J. Ganem, a musician who will be performing at the event.

"About a month from now the park will be completed, and it will be open for business. We're very excited about that," said Parks Director Grant Gerondale.

The festivities will last from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and will include a car show, hot air balloons, sidewalk chalk art contest, free hot dogs, live music, fireworks, and more. 

Local band The Rogues Five will provide the entertainment for the event. The group of Sand Springs alumni charted regionally in the 1960s and opened for Jim Morrison and The Doors at the peak of their success. The band is comprised of I.J. Ganem, Randy Ess, Philip Wilson, Bard Coats, and Jamie Oldaker.

"What we tried to do as a committee in planning this party was reach out to all ages, to all genders, and I think we're doing that with the selection of these two artists," said Park Facilities Manager Jeff Edwards.

The Rogues will open up the show with classic rock music, while Morgan Ganem will perform during the evening festivities. Morgan is the son of I.J. and a prominent solo performer with residency at Safari Joe's H2O. 

(Left to right): I.J. Ganem, Morgan Ganem, Joy Turner, Jeff Edwards, Grant Gerondale.

SEE RELATED: Sand Springs musician Morgan Ganem releases new album, Paradise

"It's a great community," said I.J. Ganem. "I remember actually being here at the river parks...with my father for the very first raft race...Today is actually my wife and my 36th anniversary and we had our first semi-date here." The Great Raft Race will return to the park Labor Day weekend.

"Anytime our city gets behind what we're doing, it's a big honor," added Morgan.

The Oklahoma City Thunder basketball organization will send representatives to dedicate a new "Thunder Cares" basketball court. The park renovation also features new playgrounds, horseshoe pits, an 18-hole disc golf course, improved infrastructure and parking, and additional multi-use athletic fields. The amenities are anchored around the 1.94-acre Great Lawn and amphitheater.

Parking is limited and a $10 fee will be collected in the late afternoon. The parking ticket will also serve as a raffle ticket for a television giveaway.

"We have a brand new entrance. A lot of people didn't even know we have a park here, and a lot of people didn't know how large the park is," said Edwards. "There's something for everybody...Whether Riverfest happens around this time of year, or if it happens at a different time, I think what we're going to do is build the excitement to have a large community-sized event. An all day thing that families can come out to enjoy and use the quality of life features that we have in the park for them."

Existing features within the park include the Case Community Center, Inez Kirk Soccer Complex, Jerry Adair Baseball Complex, Rotary Super Splash Pad, Will Ramsey Softball Complex, volleyball courts, a BMX track, and a rodeo arena.

The rodeo arena is slated for demolition this winter, while two new park improvements will be on the ballot in November. In a November 14 special election, Sand Springs residents will vote on five general obligation bond propositions. Proposition One calls for a new roadway to be constructed over the levee separating the park from the Sheffield Crossing development. Proposition Three will provide funds for a new paved parking lot at the baseball fields.

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

Oklahoma blood donors have a chance to win a new Buick Verano this Saturday

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One lucky donor who gives blood at selected Bob Moore Auto Group dealerships across Oklahoma, will drive away with a brand-new Buick Verano. Bob Moore Auto Group is teaming up with Oklahoma Blood Institute to hold a blood drive on Saturday, August 5, at Bob Moore Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Tulsa, located at 46th Street and Memorial Drive, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Five finalists will be chosen from donors who give blood at Bob Moore Auto Group dealership locations only. The odds of winning are expected to be about 1 in 1,000 depending on how many donors participate. The Buick Verano winner will be announced during a ceremony on August 19. 

“The Bob Moore blood drive not only offers our dedicated donors the chance to win a shiny new car, but they get the guarantee that they are saving someone’s life,” said John Armitage, M.D., Oklahoma Blood Institute President and CEO. “One blood donation saves the lives of up to three Oklahomans. Over the last seventeen years, we are so grateful to Bob Moore Auto Group for supporting our life-saving mission and the health of all Oklahomans.” 

Healthy adults, 16* and older, are encouraged to give blood. Free pizza from Papa John’s Pizza and other refreshments will be served. In addition to the chance to win a car, each donor will receive a pass for two to Safari Joe’s H2O Water Park, a coupon for an order of Papa John’s Garlic Knots, and a “Keep it Local” T-shirt. 

Oklahoma Blood Institute relies on approximately 1,200 volunteer donors per day to provide every drop of blood needed by patients in 90% of hospitals and medical facilities statewide.  This includes all Children’s, Veterans and Indian Hospitals. Oklahoma Blood Institute recently equipped all air ambulances in the state with O-negative blood to provide more immediate transfusions to trauma patients.

To schedule an appointment to donate blood at this event, call 1-877-340-8777, or visit www.obi.org. Walk-ins are also welcome.

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

This Week in Sand Springs (7/31 - 8/6/17)

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Tuesday 

  • 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Preschool Storytime with Miss Alice (Stay and Play).
    • Charles Page Library
      551 E. 4th St.
  • 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Afternoon Movie.
    • Charles Page Library
      551 E. 4th St.
  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit.
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.
  • 6:30 p.m. August Racing - Sand Springs BMX Association.

Wednesday

  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit.
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.
  • 6:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. Vacation Bible School.
    • Sand Springs Church of the Nazarene
      516 N. Cleveland Ave.

Thursday

  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit.
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.
  • Summer Bingo at American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17.
    • Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
    • Minis start at 6:15 p.m. ($7 for 7 games).
    • Regular session at 7:00 p.m. ($26 for a regular pack or $15 for a half pack).
  • 5:30 p.m. Anderson School District Board of Education Meeting.
  • 6:00 p.m. Pole and Barrel Series - Sand Springs Round Up Club.
  • 6:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. Vacation Bible School.
    • Sand Springs Church of the Nazarene
      516 N. Cleveland Ave.

Friday

  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit.
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.
  • 6:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. Vacation Bible School
    • Sand Springs Church of the Nazarene
      516 N. Cleveland Ave.

Saturday

  • 7:00 a.m. Connor's Classic 5K and Fun Run.
  • 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Chipper Days.
  • 9:00 a.m. Free Barrel & Pole Clinic.
  • 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit.
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.
  • 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sand Springs Museum Association Annual Meeting.
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum.
      9 E. Broadway St.
    • Election of Association Officers, speakers, entertainment, and last chance to tour "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone By" exhibit.
  • 7:00 p.m. Eighth Annual Tulsa Central Alumni Party.
    • Sandite Billiards & Grill
      7822 W. Parkway Blvd.
      Tulsa, OK 74127

Sunday

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

Professional Disc Golfers host free clinic for Sand Springs kids

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Charles Page Library hosted a free disc golf clinic Wednesday morning in Sand Springs. Librarian Richard Why and wife Tara hosted the event; both are teammates for FOSSA Disc Golf and play professional tournaments across the central United States.

The Whys have hosted the event annually for several years. The clinic started with a lecture on the fundamentals of the sport with information on local courses and stores.

The Oklahoma Disc Golf Foundation donated free discs to the event. The organization also helps cover tournament fees and travel costs for golfers under the age of 18. Fossa donated hats and mini-markers.

Following the presentation, the golfers moved outside to work on form and learn the different types of driving.

Sand Springs recently installed a new 18-hole disc golf course in Case Community Park near the BMX track and rodeo arena. 

Sand Springs City Council approves General Obligation Bond vote for November

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Sand Springs Police Chief Mike Carter discusses the department's need for updated dispatch software at a Monday night City Council meeting. (Photo: Emigh).

The Sand Springs City Council unanimously approved a series of bond propositions at Monday night’s regular monthly meeting. The five propositions will appear on the ballot November 14th at the same time as the Senate District 37 special election. Each proposition will pass or fail on its own, and will require a simple majority of 50% plus one vote.

Proposition One totals $3.505 million for the purpose of improving street conditions and constructing new roadways. “The City has always made an effort to make streets and roadways here in Sand Springs a priority,” said City Manager Elizabeth Gray. $1.445 million will be used for street overlays and repairs, while $2.06 million will go to a new roadway over the levee separating Case Community Park from the Sheffield Crossing commercial development.

Proposition Two totals $2.27 million for the purpose of purchasing new public safety equipment and software. The money will be used to replace a fifteen-year-old Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) software for the Sand Springs Police Department, as well as the Records Management System. A new ladder truck will also be purchased for the Sand Springs Fire Department. The new unit will be able to navigate tighter spaces and will have a ladder approximately 30 feet longer than the current unit.

Proposition Three totals $3.765 million for the purposes of beautifying, renovating, and generally improving public parks, lands, recreational facilities, etc. $592,250 will go to paving the parking lot at the Jerry Adair Baseball Complex inside Case Community Park. $203,000 will go to Museum building improvements, $420,500 will go to park improvements, $231,750 will go to neighborhood trail improvements, $2.06 million will go to improvements at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge, and $257,500 will go towards improvements at the Keystone Ancient Forest. KAF improvements will include a watch tower and a new visitor’s center.

Proposition Four totals $2.625 million for the purpose of improving municipal facilities and assets. $412,000 will go to purchasing a vacuum truck, $1.9055 million will go to City-wide beautification and landscaping, and $307,500 will go to City-wide computer hardware and software upgrades. According to City officials, the current vacuum truck is utilized daily and is one of the most heavily used piece of equipment in the city.

Part of the beautification and landscaping funds will go to the City Water Treatment facility on the corner of Morrow Road and Wilson Avenue. “We want to make sure that we don’t have an eyesore that people can see anymore,” said Gray. "The water tower is coming down, it’s already funded. The water treatment facility isn’t going to be moved, it’s just too expensive. We want to make sure that our city looks as good as it can.”

Proposition Five totals $6.180 million will go to acquisition, improvement, and development of lands for future economic development projects. “Our citizens still have wants that they want to see locally, and we want to see that happen,” said Police Chief Mike Carter. “Look no further than Walmart and Webco. Those would not have happened if the City didn’t have those resources.”

Under the proposal, the city millage rate will be kept to $13 per $1,000 of property value. According to City officials, the most Sand Springs citizens have ever paid was $13.5. “Even when we go to 13 mills, our millage rate will be below Bixby, Jenks, Sapulpa, Broken Arrow, and Tulsa,” said Councilman Phil Nollan. “It was intentional,” added Mayor Mike Burdge. 

In other news:

Council approved a renewal of their ten-year sales tax rebate agreement with Reasor’s, LLC. The 1% agreement caps at $2 million and is currently at $1.022 million after five years.

Council approved a $251,708 annual subsidy of EMSA services.

Council approved a contract of up to $190,000 with Dewberry Architects for expenses relating to the new Public Safety Facility.

Council approved the closure of the Southern half of Case Community Park from Sunday, September 3rd through Monday, September 4th. The park will serve as the launching point for the Great Raft Race that Monday. The park will also be closed to normal operations on September 9th and 10th due to the Riverfest Grand Opening event. 

Council approved a transfer of $20,000 for a sidewalk improvement project in Concord Estates.

Council approved an ordinance rezoning the formerly-planned Arms Estates housing addition from RS-2 to RS-3. Arms Estates was originally planned in 1958 but ceased development after a single home. The property is located between East 31st Place and East 32nd Place off South 113th West Avenue.

Alan Betchan of AAB Engineering plans on developing a twelve-lot subdivision named Rivercrest. The new zoning allows the lots to be as little as 60 feet wide, as opposed to 75 feet minimum under RS-2. The lots are expected to be about 70 feet wide and 9,000 square feet. The addition will include single-story homes approximately 1800 square feet, and two-story homes approximately 2200 square feet. They are expected to range from $200,000 to $300,000.

Council voted to create an exemption from the Sand Springs Parks Fee for new buildings on lots that have been previously developed as residential.

Council voted to approve current plans for a hardened room (storm shelter) to be constructed at the Case Community Center. Preliminary designs have been drafted by Studio 45 for a 40x14 room with an occupancy load of 97, able to withstand 250 mph winds. “This is simply a place for occupants of the building, this is not a community shelter” said Parks Director Grant Gerondale. The project will go to bid this fall.

Council awarded a $715,710 contract to Circle P Welding, Inc. for the replacement of the South McKinley Hills Water Storage Tank.

Councilman Brian Jackson announced the acquisition of several surplus books from the National Library of Congress that have been gifted to Sand Springs Public Schools.

The Sand Springs Museum Association will hold an annual meeting on August 5th that is open to the public from 11:00 a.m. to noon. Connie Fisher, a museum volunteer and nationally acclaimed storyteller, will provide entertainment.

This Week in Sand Springs (7/24 - 7/30/17)

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Monday

  • 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Vacation Bible School
    • Word of Life
      1402 N. 81st W. Ave.
  • 1:00 p.m. American Indian Dances and Storytelling with Mike and Lisa Pahsetopah
    • Pratt Library
      3219 S. 113th W. Ave.
  • Summer Bingo at American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17.
    • Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
    • Minis start at 6:15 p.m. ($7 for 7 games).
    • Regular session at 7:00 p.m. ($26 for a regular pack or $15 for a half pack).
  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs City Council Meeting
    • City Municipal Building
      100 E. Broadway Room 203
    • Must sign in to speak
    • Presentation, hearing, and potential adoption of General Obligation Bond Election.
    • Click here to view full agenda. 
  • Sand Springs Municipal Authority Meeting - Immediately following City Council

Tuesday 

  • 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Vacation Bible School
    • Word of Life
      1402 N. 81st W. Ave.
  • 10:30 a.m. Preschool Storytime with Miss Alice (Stay and Play!)
  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.

Wednesday

  • 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Vacation Bible School
    • Word of Life
      1402 N. 81st W. Ave.
  • 10:30 a.m. Disc Golf with Mr. Richard 
    • Charles Page Library
      551 E. 4th St.
    • Professional disc golfer Richard Why, team member for Fossa, will hold a children's golf clinic.
  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.

Thursday

  • 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Vacation Bible School
    • Word of Life
      402 N. 81st W. Ave.
  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.
  • Summer Bingo at American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17.
    • Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
    • Minis start at 6:15 p.m. ($7 for 7 games).
    • Regular session at 7:00 p.m. ($26 for a regular pack or $15 for a half pack).
  • 6:00 p.m. Pole and Barrel Series - Sand Springs Round Up Club

Friday

  • Sand Springs Public School Enrollment Center closed due to alarm testing.
  • 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Vacation Bible School
    • Word of Life
      402 N. 81st W. Ave.
  • 10:00 a.m. Touch a Truck - Presented by Pratt Library
    • Explore fire trucks, police cars, and military vehicles at the Sand Springs Church of Christ.
    • 4301 S. 113th W. Ave.
  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.
  • 9:00 p.m. Astronomy Night at Keystone Ancient Forest
    • 160 Ancient Forest Drive

Saturday

  • Pirate Day at Pier 51 Marina
    • 1926 S. Highway 151
  • 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Lady Sandite Volleyball - Pancake Breakfast
    • Masonic Lodge #475
      3201 S. 113th W. Ave.
    • $5 per person
  • 10:00 a.m. First Annual CPHS Slow-Pitch Alumni Softball Game
    • Sandite Sports Complex
      412 W. 55th St.
    • No cover charge, donations encouraged. 
  • 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. "Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry" exhibit
    • Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum
      9 E. Broadway St.

Sunday

  • 4:00 p.m. Barrel and Pole Series - Sand Springs Round Up Club
  • 6:00 p.m. Fourth Annual CPHS Alumni Football Game
    • George F. Collins Stadium
      1201 E. Lincoln
      Sapulpa, OK

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

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

Great Raft Race adds Sand Sculpture Contest, rental crafts, and School Challenge

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The Great Tulsa Raft Race hosted a press conference Friday morning to announce four new additions to this year's event.

The Sand Sculpture contest that ran for more than a decade through the 1980s and 1990s will return. The contest reportedly drew a thousand competitors at its peak and was featured on Good Morning America in 1991. World Champion sand sculptor John Gowdy is expected to present a Tulsa-themed piece at the race's finish line and will judge the competition.

Kayaks and inflatable rafts will also be available for rent for the first time through the Raft Race website. Registration for the event ends August 15th for both contestants and renters. In addition to renting a craft for the full race, participants will also be able to rent kayaks at the finish line.

Three weeks prior to the event there will be a pre-party presented by the Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation at Fuel 66. Full details on that event are yet to be announced.

American Airlines Government Affairs liaison Chase Beasley announced a new STEM Challenge for area schools. The Regional STEM alliance will create a curriculum around raft building, while American Airlines Engineers will partner with KKT Architects to assist ten schools in the construction of their vessel. American Airlines will provide the entry fee for the student teams, but raft materials will not be provided. 

Raft Race officials will aim to select a diverse group of schools, including Tulsa Public Schools, Sand Springs, and other neighboring districts. Student teams must include five to ten participants including one adult. All students must be 12 years or older. 

The Tulsa tradition ran from 1973 to 1991 before being resurrected in 2015. The Labor Day race will launch in Case Community Park in Sand Springs and will end at the River West Festival Park in Tulsa.

Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum spoke at the event and announced his intentions to participate in the race. "We're doing so much right now to make this revitalized as the defining natural asset that we have here in Tulsa...For generations people were able to utilize the Arkansas River as a point of recreation, and last year the citizens overwhelmingly said 'we want that again.'"

"This is one day out of 365 that we get to use the river for recreation. Think about what it's going to be like here in a few years when you can use it any day of the year," said Bynum.

The official T-shirt for the event was also announced. The mermaid design will be the official shirt received in the registration package, but the runner-up design will also be available for purchase.

Participants can register for the race and find more information at www.tulsaraftrace.com.

Sand Springs Animal Shelter is full, in need of adoptions and fosters

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The following animals are available for adoption at the Sand Springs Animal Shelter as of 7.20.2017. According to welfare volunteer Stacey Zahn, the shelter is nearly full.

Photographs are courtesy of Snapdragon Photography and Stacey Zahn.

Adoption cost is $65 and covers spaying/neutering, vaccination, deworming, and a general health examination. You must be 18 years or older to adopt. 

Healthy/adoptable animals are held for three days for owners to claim them before being posted for adoption. 

In emergency overcrowding situations, the Sand Springs Animal Shelter may have to euthanize some animals. 

Anyone looking to support the shelter can join the Sand Springs Animal Shelter Support Group on Facebook, or volunteer with Sandite Team Animal Rescue.

Sand Springs Animal Welfare
8620 W. 21st St.
Sand Springs, OK 74063
918.246.2543
animalcontrol@sandspringsok.org
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Monday - Friday

Snapdragon Photography
Sand Springs, OK 74063
918.625.6853
renae@snapdragonphotography.net
www.snapdragonphotography.net
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Editorial: River City Park doesn't need a renovation

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It's about fifteen till noon with a heat index of 89 degrees and a steady breeze to combat the humidity. I'm on my weekly trek through River City Park, taking photos of the construction progress, and I'm reminded that although all the hype is around the new projects in the park, the existing features are already worth the trip.

I parked by the Jerry Adair Baseball Complex, named for one of Sand Springs's greatest athletes, and rebuilt just a few years ago thanks to countless community donations and volunteer hours after a devastating tornado.

It is the West Side Alliance 3V3 tournament weekend so the soccer fields are packed. This is normal for Sand Springs. The WSA is one of the largest and most active soccer programs in the state.

The shaved ice banners are flying and the splash pad is open. A massive contribution from the Rotary Club and the nonprofit concession stand ran by WSA volunteers offer one of the best places in Sand Springs for kids to cool down and hang out.

Once you pass the hubbub of the Inez Kirk Soccer Complex, the park begins to quiet down.

The River City Trail winds along the river and with a little TLC along the shoreline, the park could easily be the premier viewing destination of the Great Raft Race 

I'm passing The Great Lawn and the new playground facilities now. For now the great lawn is a great mess, but soon enough it'll be a beautiful site to host concerts, festivals, and other community gatherings.

I stop at the playground to snap some pics and do a little playing of my own. It has been a year since Pokémon Go debuted, but it has managed to maintain its appeal for those of us who spent our childhood playing the games, collecting the cards, and watching the show. I battle the Gym located in the playground, then continue walking and hatching Pokémon eggs.

The restrooms are being updated and modern art is littered along the perimeter of the lawn. A minuteman stands to watch over the grounds, the mascot of Sand Springs. The amphitheater is exciting. I look forward to many great concerts here.

Once you pass the great lawn there's a boat ramp to the rive. The dam is open and the river is running. Not as uncommon as it used to be, but still a treat compared to the sandbars we're so used to. 

Volleyball courts have been here for ages, the Horseshoe pits have been relocated, and a Thunder Cares Basketball Court is being built.

I'm getting into the back of the park now. The Will Ramsey Softball Complex, the rodeo arena, the BMX track, and the disc golf course. Round Up Club volunteers are currently painting the facility in hopes of reversing a City Council decision to demolish it at the end of the season. The new disc golf course is nice. I've played it a couple of times now. 

I have reached the end of the park where it terminates beneath the Arkansas River bridge. The trail goes up the levee and meets Katy Trail allowing you to go into Prattville or back to Tulsa. The trail system will take you all the way to the new Gathering Place and beyond, though I don't see why anyone in Sand Springs would need to go that far when we have such a beautiful park right here.

Though the new additions are welcome, and the park has always had its flaws, the bones of the park will be the same in September as they were a year ago. Packed soccer, baseball, and softball fields. Tulsa's only BMX track, a uniquely wooded disc golf course, nearly a mile of river shore, playgrounds, a splash pad, and a well-paved and shaded trail. 

The $6 million renovation will bring improvements and additions to Sand Springs's flagship park, but a simple Saturday morning stroll more than shows that River City Park doesn't need a renovation to be one of Sand Springs's greatest assets.

This Week in Sand Springs (7/17 - 7/23/17)

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Monday

  • Summer Bingo at American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17.
    • Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
    • Minis start at 6:15 p.m. ($7 for 7 games).
    • Regular session at 7:00 p.m. ($26 for a regular pack or $15 for a half pack).
  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Planning Commission Regular Meeting
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Adjustment Regular Meeting
  • 7:30 p.m. Trivia Night at Sandite Billiards & Grill
    • 7822 Parkway Boulevard
    • Free to play, winning team gets free burger baskets. Teams up to 6 players.

Tuesday 

  • 11:00 a.m. Recycle Craft for a Better World
  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum Trust Authority Regular Meeting
  • 6:30 p.m. Sand Springs BMX Racing
    • 2600 South River City Park Road
    • $10 per night or $60 annual membership.

Wednesday

  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Development Authority Regular Meeting

Thursday

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

Friday

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. American Legion Yard Sale
    • Billie A. Hall Post 17
    • 500 North Main Street

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. American Legion Yard Sale
    • Billie A. Hall Post 17
    • 500 North Main Street

Downtown Sand Springs experiencing growth and restoration with several new businesses

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YellowHouse Market and Boutique is the newest business coming to downtown after buying out Deja Vu Decor. 

A city's downtown business district is often considered the heart of the community. In Oklahoma, where municipalities are almost fully dependent on sales tax revenue for general operations, a healthy downtown can be paramount to a healthy economy. 

If City officials and local businesses have their way, Sand Springs will soon be one of the premier downtowns in the State to spend the weekend shopping and sightseeing. 

In the recently-approved Sand Springs 2030 Comprehensive Plan, the City identified having an assorted variety of downtown restaurants, businesses, and services as vital to creating a sense of place within a community. The plan sets a goal of enhancing the downtown area as one of the primary focal points of the community.

Beau Wilson Insurance.

In the past, downtown Sand Springs has struggled with attracting both patrons and quality business establishments. Vice-Mayor Beau Wilson attributes the lack of customers to lack of quality retail, the curb appeal of many older buildings, and a failure to market downtown as a destination for Sand Springs. He also says that this is beginning to change.

"Downtown has a number of thriving boutiques and antique shops," says Wilson. "We are beginning to see citizens reinvest in our historic downtown." Beau Wilson Insurance opened in the historic Boone-Rose Building at 17 East 2nd Street this past November. The building was constructed in 1924.

"When I was looking to relocate my business to Sand Springs, there was no other location but downtown in my opinion. My wife, business partners and I were fully committed to finding a location in downtown...and it has been an honor to restore and revitalize a piece of our town's history." 

Dog and Duck Antiques.

Just two doors down from Wilson, Chris and Julie Bedokis opened Dog and Duck Antiques at 21 East 2nd Street on Memorial Day weekend. The couple already had a small booth at the Vintage Stables on Main Street but decided to open their own facility. The store didn't open with much fanfare initially, and is tentatively planning on a Grand Opening event later this year.

Another newcomer to the downtown area is YellowHouse Market & Boutique. Lisa and Mike Miller first opened YellowHouse at the Livi Lee's Shopping Center in October, but just nine months later they're already planning on relocating to a larger facility in the downtown business district. 

The new YellowHouse location will be at 122 North Main Street in the former Chastain's Department Store building. "We did buy a new building. It's a larger space. It's going to help us reach Sand Springs with more clothes, more goodies, and lots of fun," said Lisa Miller in a Facebook Live announcement. The Millers plan to stay open in their current location until the new building's remodel is complete.

The Chastain's building, constructed in 1931, has been owned and operated by Laurie Joslin for the past two decades. At one point she owned the Kindred Spirits novelty shop in the front and The Back Porch Cafe in the back. The Back Porch Cafe acquired a front porch after Joslin purchased the building next door and relocated the diner. She rebranded as The Lunch Box, then rebranded again as Chastain's Casual Cafe and Catering. Eventually the buildings were separated and Joslin opened DejaVu Decor while the old restaurant building was purchased by Boomarang Cafe.

Joslin and her husband, Mark, have plans to relocate their business to The Antique Depot in Skiatook, but will still reside in Sand Springs. They plan on featuring their house in the 39th Annual Pilot Club Parade of Homes later this year.

Chip and Annette Stacy opened Stacys' Resale Shop at 12 East 2nd Street in September of 2016 and recently expanded to their neighboring storefront for a music and guitar shop. The store boasts a large array of modern and classic comic books, records, 8-track cassettes, CDs, jewelry, knives, home decor, furniture, and more. 

The shop is filled with dozens of classic Les Pauls, German fiddles, and other unique instruments and collectibles. Looking up at the walls is like a trip through a museum. Original Black Sabbath, Jim Morrison, Joan Jett, Elvis, Willie Nelson, and other vinyl records wallpaper the store.

Troy and Stephanie Cleveland opened The Vintage Stables on Main in 2016 and performed one of the most notable restorations in recent years. The bright red barnstyle building could easily serve as a stop sign, telling drivers to pull over and shop. 

WSB Designs, LLC.

It's not all shopping in downtown, either. After the passing of Reverend Terry Scott in October, Future Vision Ministries closed their office on the Triangle and sold to local builder William Bell. Bell recently showcased a house in the Tulsa Parade of Homes and is still renovating his new studio. The front of the building pays homage to its prior resident with a quote from Scott. 

Unfortunately, not all classic buildings can be saved. In April of 2012, a fire devastated a historic building housing the Sand Springs Beauty College and Covington Credit. The skeleton remained until 2016 when it was demolished by the Sand Springs Home and construction began on a new retail/office building.

Left, damage from the 2012 fire is cordoned off with caution tape. Right, a new building is erected in the same location.

"The City has made tremendous strides in the past few years to give downtown its identity and purpose," says Wilson. "Under the excellent leadership of City Manager Elizabeth Gray and her staff, we will continue to see downtown prosper."

"As a city, we have some of the most talented employees. Many of whom donate their own time and particular talent and skill-sets to make Sand Springs better. Take the Triangle for example. Jeff Edwards and Grant Gerondale and the entire Parks Department took on that project making it what it is today...it truly is our employees who make the difference and will be the engine behind fueling the growth of downtown."

"I can remember a day when I was a kid when downtown seemed like a ghost town. Especially when all of the growth and emphasis was to the south of Sand Springs...Urban renewal and suburban sprawl were the catch phrases of the day. Rather than restore old buildings, it was easier to tear down and build something new, or reface old buildings with a new modern facade, losing that building's history entirely."

As to the future, Wilson says that the current City Council is committed to saving Sand Springs history. He would like to see downtown business owners take a more active role in beautifying their buildings, with further investment by both the city and its businesses. 

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Battman Collision Repair has served Sand Springs for more than a decade

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Battman Collision Repair has been doing business at 702 East Pecan Street in Sand Springs since 2005.

Owned and operated by native Sandite Mark Battenfield, the shop has built a reputation of small town values and dependable service for more than a decade. With nothing but five-star ratings on both Google and Facebook, Battman is the best-reviewed auto shop in Sand Springs.

The Sand Springs auto shop offers top-of-the-line services including dent repair, body repair, painting, bumper repair, damage appraisals, glass replacement, pin stripes, insurance claims, and full restoration. The shop doesn't perform routine maintenance, choosing to focus their expertise on collision-related repairs. 

Battenfield was introduced to the automotive lifestyle by his father, and he spent much of his younger days restoring Ford Model-As and Jeeps. After working for sixteen years at the box factory in Sand Springs, he decided to go to work doing custom paint jobs. Over time, his friends would come to him for help with car repairs and he learned there was a lot more money to be made in accident repair than paint work.  

The shop has been at its current location since its inception, but initially only occupied a small portion of the building. As time passed, the community has been good to Battman and they were able to expand and take over the full building. 

Mark Battenfield's retired Creek County Sheriff's cruiser on display at the first-annual Harper's Hut Classic Car Show.

A frequent sponsor of free community events like the Harper's Hut Classic Car Show and the Harper's Hut Day of Giving, you can often see Battenfield's retired Creek County Sheriff's cruiser drawing crowds wherever he takes it.

The police cruiser isn't the only popular icon Battman is known for. The shop was the "home" of a well-known stray dog named Daisy for years. Battenfield says Daisy roamed the area along Charles Page Boulevard for more than half a decade before being struck by a vehicle on the Keystone Expressway. Battenfield, a dog-lover, put a house out for Daisy and she would often sleep at the shop. In her seven years of sleeping there, she never once allowed Battenfield or an employee to pet her. 

Customers of Battman will want to make sure they check out Battenfield's office, as it could easily pass as a museum of classic auto culture. Collectible models and other vintage accessories will entertain any child and make a grown man feel like a child again. 

Battman is just one example of the small-town businesses that make Sand Springs such a unique and fun place to live and work.

Battman Collision Repair
702 E. Pecan St.
Sand Springs, Oklahoma 74063
918.245.8200
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. - Monday through Friday
Saturday by appointment only
Website
Facebook
 

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Sand Springs Board of Education approves hiring of new baseball coach

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Northwoods principal Laura Hamilton is presented with a Coin of Excellence by Board of Education Chairman Rusty Gunn.

The Sand Springs Board of Education met in a regular monthly meeting Monday evening at the Sandite Performing Arts Building. 

Northwoods Fine Arts Academy principal Laura Hamilton was presented with a Coin of Excellence. "Under pressure, this girl is amazing," said Superintendent Sherry Durkee in reference to a high-speed police pursuit and shooting that occurred on school grounds last year. Prior to being promoted to Principal, Hamilton was also the site teacher of the year for the 2012-2013 school year.

The Sand Springs Pilot Club and Sand Springs Women's Chamber were also presented with special recognitions for their contributions to the school district. 

Superintendent Durkee discussed the school partnership with Daybreak for mental health services. "They've been a really healthy partner...we have a councilor in every building." She also talked about Sandites Teaming for Academic Results (STAR). School administrators will hold more frequent meetings with site representatives throughout the year.

According to Assistant Superintendent Kristin Arnold, the district doesn't expect to receive the results from Spring testing till October, while A-F report cards won't be received till March.

The district is working towards having enough chrome books to follow students from grade to grade.

Durkee also discussed the possibility of having a new sound system installed at the Ed Dubie Field House. The court was recently repaired and new LED lights are soon to be installed. "It's our premier 6A facility for three sports," said Durkee.

The Lady Sandite basketball team won a conference title and made the State Semifinals this past season while the wrestling team won both State and Dual State titles. The Boys' Basketball team fell a few games short of a winning season, but is demonstrating consistent growth and improvement under fifth-year head coach Eric Savage. The Volleyball team also had one of their best seasons in school history under Frontier Valley Conference Coach of the Year Janna Green. 

The high school is without full-time security officers on staff for the first time in years and administration doesn't have any immediate plans to hire new officers. According to Durkee, the school has gotten by fine in the past year while the previous officer missed substantial workdays due to health issues. The Sand Springs Police Department will continue to assist with security during sporting events, but for the time being the district will consider the potential cost-savings of eliminating the position for the foreseeable future.

The Board unanimously approved the filling of twenty-two positions, including that of Head Baseball Coach and Assistant Baseball Coach. Former Edmond Memorial Head Coach James Garrison will take over the reigns from retiring coach Bill Hutson. He will be joined by new pitching coach Matt Brown, also from Edmond Memorial.

James was an assistant coach at Union for two State Championship seasons. He spent one year at Edmond Memorial and amassed a 14-19 record. His contract was terminated after the season.

Sand Springs's Janet Johnson named Oklahoma Teacher of the Year finalist

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Sand Springs's own Janet Johnson is one of twelve finalists for Oklahoma Teacher of the Year. The candidates were announced today in a ceremony at Yukon High School.

Johnson teaches science at Clyde Boyd Middle School, a position she has held for 16 of her 19 years in education.

“Classroom teachers are the heart and soul of education, and research tells us they are the most important person in the schoolhouse,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister. “Each of these 12 men and women represents the best of the best of those who have devoted their life to among the most noble and life-changing of professions.”

All finalists are teachers of the year for their districts and were selected after their application packets were reviewed by a panel that included educators, members of the business community, legislators and nonprofit partners.

The 2018 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year will be revealed Sept. 19 in a ceremony at State Fair Park in Oklahoma City.

The 2018 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year will remain in the classroom for the 2017-2018 school year. Beginning July 1, 2018, the honoree will assume full-time Teacher of the Year duties, which include speaking engagements and serving as Oklahoma’s teacher ambassador, encouraging others to enter or remain in the profession. The 2017 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year, Jon Hazell of Durant, will continue to tour the state until July 2018.

Other Oklahoma Teacher of the Year finalists include:

  • Jill Andrews teaches high school English at Claremore High School in Claremore Public Schools. She has been an educator for 19 years and has held her current position for 12 years.
  • Neeli Boyd teaches first grade at Wiley Post Elementary School in Putnam City Schools. She has been an educator for eight years and has held her current position for two years.
  • Sarah Carter teaches mathematics at Drumright High School in Drumright Public Schools. She has been an educator for five years and has held her current position for five years.
  • Rob Davis teaches history at Yukon High School in Yukon Public Schools. He has been an educator for 15 years and has held his current position for three years.
  • Betty Deen teaches English at Oologah Middle School in Oologah-Talala Public Schools. She has been an educator for 24 years and has held her current position for 19 years.
  • Donna Gradel teaches science at Broken Arrow High School in Broken Arrow Public Schools. She has been an educator for 29 years and has held her current position for 21 years.
  • Chad Harper teaches STEM at Mustang High School in Mustang Public Schools. He has been an educator for 18 years and has held his current position for 18 years.
  • Dionne Liebl teaches English at Deer Creek High School in Deer Creek Schools. She has been an educator for 17 years and has held her current position for five years.
  • Shala Marshall teaches Spanish at Jenks High School in Jenks Public Schools. She has been an educator for 16 years and has held her current position for four years.
  • Christine Mueller teaches band at Moore Central Junior High School in Moore Public Schools. She has been an educator for 23 years and has held her current position for 18 years.
  • Laura Smith teaches band and music at Byng Elementary, Byng Junior High and Byng High School in Byng Public Schools. She has been an educator for 15 years and has held her current position for nine years.

In addition, OSDE named four “Rising Star” teachers. Each is a district Teacher of the Year winner with fewer than seven years in the classroom who demonstrated great skill and potential in their applications.

The Rising Stars are:

  • Colby McGee teaches agriculture at Allen Public Schools. He has been an educator for two years and has held his current position for two years.
  • Haley Price teaches English at Newcastle High School in Newcastle Public Schools. She has been an educator for four years and has held her current position for four years.
  • Jessi Ross teaches second grade at Mooreland Elementary School in Mooreland Public Schools. She has been an educator for seven years and has held her current position for five years.
  • Madison Wingate teaches pre-kindergarten at Pierce Elementary School in Oklahoma City Public Schools. She has been an educator for four years and has held her current position for four years.

This Week in Sand Springs (7/10 - 7/16/17)

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Monday

  • 12:00 p.m. Sand Springs Chamber Open Forum
    • Tulsa Technology Center
      924 East Charles Page Boulevard
    • Speaker: Uwe von Schamann, Communications and Development for The Children's Center Rehabilitation Hospital
  • 1:00 p.m. Dustin Reudelhuber - The Balloon Guy! at Charles Page Library
    • 551 East 4th Street
  • Summer Bingo at American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17.
    • Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
    • Minis start at 6:15 p.m. ($7 for 7 games).
    • Regular session at 7:00 p.m. ($26 for a regular pack or $15 for a half pack).
  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Education Meeting
    • Performing Arts Building
      600 North Adams Road
    • Special recognition of Sand Springs Pilot Club, Sand Springs Women's Chamber, and Laura Hamilton.
    • Click here to view full agenda.

Tuesday 

  • 11:00 a.m. Visit with Sand Springs Fire Department at Charles Page Library
    • 551 East 4th Street
  • 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sandite Volleyball Fundraiser at Charlie's Chicken
    • Eat at Charlie's Chicken in Sand Springs and a portion of your purchase will be donated to CPHS Volleyball.
    • 440 West Wekiwa Road

Wednesday

  • 11:30 a.m. Sand Springs City Council Meeting

Thursday

  • 1:00 p.m. Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry at Sand Springs Museum
    • Dust Bowl Exhibit and Blood Drive
    • 9 East Broadway Street.
  • 4:00 p.m. Canister Rockets - Presented by Tulsa Children's Museum at Charles Page Library 
    • 551 East 4th Street
  • Summer Bingo at American Legion, Billie A. Hall Post 17.
    • Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
    • Minis start at 6:15 p.m. ($7 for 7 games).
    • Regular session at 7:00 p.m. ($26 for a regular pack or $15 for a half pack).
  • 5:30 p.m. Airport Advisory Board Meeting
    • 3200 Airport Road
      Conference Room - Airport Terminal Building

Friday

  • 7:00 - 11:00 p.m. Starry Night at POSTOAK Lodge
    • Solar and Lunar gazing with the Tulsa Astronomy Club. Free to attend, donations welcome.
    • 5323 West 31st Street North, Tulsa.

Saturday

Janeway Castle Stone Estate & Venue opens in Sand Springs

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Janeway Castle Stone Estate & Venue held an Open House event Sunday afternoon in Sand Springs. The new wedding and event facility offers more than 10,00 square feet on a forty-acre forested lot.

The estate was previously the home of Kenny and Tonya Janeway and family, but after the last of her kids moved out Tonya says she wanted to see the home bring joy to new couples. Tonya and Ashlynn Janeway manage the facility, but clients will need their own wedding/event coordinator.

The grounds are fifteen minutes from downtown Sand Springs, just a hair outside of the Sand Springs fence-line in Creek County. The three-story house includes multiple bedrooms, front and back balconies, WiFi, a billiards room, and a personal theater. The digital-projection theater has nine leather reclining seats.

Also on the grounds are a pool, jacuzzi, outdoor kitchen, and fire pit. With forty acres at their disposal, the Janeways plan on future improvements including a small lake and chapel. 

Parties can reserve the facility for a single day for $5,000 or $8,500 for a full weekend. The single day package lasts from 8:00 a.m. to midnight, while the weekend package is from 5:00 p.m. on Friday to noon on Sunday. 

Janeway Castle is located at 16162 West 61st Street and can be reached at 918.640.8051.

*This article has been corrected to reflect the square footage as 10,000, not 7.500 as previously reported.

 

Sandite of the Week: Police Chief Mike Carter works to build police-community relations

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Sand Springs Police Chief Mike Carter was selected as our Sandite of the Week for his eagerness to involve the police department in the community and his efforts to build a highly-trained and effective police force.

Click here to view previous Sandites of the Week.

Last week, local business owner Joni Sporleder posted in a Sand Springs Facebook group with an idea to have an Independence Day parade downtown. Because it was too late to secure the necessary permits to block off a City street, Chief Carter organized a parade around the Clyde Boyd Walking Trail. SSPD officers manned their bikes and led more than a hundred citizens around the trail on everything from bikes and wagons to horses. After the parade, the department handed out free popsicles and awarded new skateboards to children with the most decorative bicycles and outfits. 

Also last week, Carter presented the new 2017 Policing Plan to City Council, who in turn voted unanimously to approve the document. The 24-page plan identifies policies designed to build trust, engage the community, reduce crime, increase officer training and education and to promote safety.

SEE RELATED: City of Sand Springs adopts new 2017 Policing Plan

Under Carter's leadership the department has made moves to increase the number of warnings and reduce the number of fines issued during traffic stops. Officers have been issued business cards with their name and badge number. A department Facebook page has been created to directly engage with the community, creating dialogue, and informing citizens about ongoing crime problems, trends, and investigations. 

Officers are all trained in Fair and Impartial Policing, which centers on the belief that all people have some implicit bias. The SSPD became the first department in the State to formalize an agreement with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to allow the OSBI to conduct any and all investigations into officer-involved shootings resulting in injury or death, as well as in-custody deaths.

 The department recently launched the "Pop With a Cop" program where officers and City officials hold monthly meetings in each of the City's Wards to meet with citizens and discuss police policy and city issues.

Last year the department held its first-ever "Food for Fines" program, allowing citizens to pay off up to $200 in fines with non-perishable food donations to Sand Springs Community Services.

Carter was promoted to Chief of Police in May of 2015 following an eleven-year stent as Deputy Chief. His promotion came on the heels of former twenty-year Chief Daniel Bradley's hiring as Assistant City Manager.

Prior to his appointment as Deputy Chief, Carter worked in Crisis Negotiation on the Sand Springs SWAT team. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Northeastern State University, graduated from the FBI National Academy, and completed the Police Executive Development and Leadership Curriculum at the University of Tulsa. 

Carter has been with the department since 1993 and is a recipient of the Medal of Valor, two Life Saving Awards, the American Red Cross Everyday Hero award, the City of Sand Springs Employee of the Year award, the Sand Springs Police Department Officer of the Year award, and the Sand Springs Rotary Club Police Officer of the Year award.