Sand Springs golf course ranked among top-ten Best Value courses in United States

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Sand Springs, OK -  The City of Sand Springs' Canyons at Blackjack Ridge Golf Course has been named one of the top golf courses not only in Oklahoma, but in the U.S. The recent rankings come from Golf Advisor (golfadvisor.com) an online golfing review source, using feedback from golfers themselves. The 2017 rankings reflect online voting by golfers around the region and the results showcase the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge as the #3 rated top golf course in Oklahoma and among the Top 10 Best Value courses in the United States.

"We've been working on the course for more than ten years, and we're pretty pleased to be noticed in this manner," stated Brian Talley, Director of Golf for the City. "Our course has added many recent improvements like new tee boxes, pond features, beautiful vistas and our greens have been consistently strong."

The Canyons is a USGA sanctioned, 18 hole course overlooking the beautiful Tulsa skyline.  Each year tens of thousands of sports tourists play the course and enjoy the Sand Springs community. Talley says there are no shortcuts in producing the consistently strong product that is the Canyons golf course.

"Many hours are spent by staff every day monitoring the greens, irrigation and nutrient inputs which come together to create a fantastic golf experience for people", Talley added. "With many choices for people to play golf, we go the extra mile with great customer service and competitive rates to keep people coming back."

The Canyons boasts natural rolling topography and small canyons laid out across the course, providing unmatched natural beauty. In recent years the course's #12 hole was voted by Tulsa World readers as one of "Tulsa's Best Holes of Golf" with its dramatic cliff setting and nearly 200' vertical drop to the green below. 

The Canyons offers memberships, tournaments and lessons from PGA professionals. To make a golf reservation call (918) 246-2606 or visit www.canyonsatblackjackridge.com. 

For more information on the Golf Advisor resource, check out: 

 https://www.golfadvisor.com/best-of/

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit  www.sandspringsok.org and www.seesandsprings.com and follow the City on Face Book for the latest updates.

El Patron Mexican Restaurant opens for business in Sand Springs

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El Patron Cocina Mexicana held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning in Sand Springs to commemorate its opening. The new Mexican Restaurant opened its doors for business Thursday, December 28th after an extensive renovation in The Shops at Adams Road. 

Located at 536 Plaza Court, the new restaurant is in the former location of El Maguey Mexican Restaurant, which relocated to the River West shopping center earlier this year.

After El Maguey vacated the building in July, owner Ricardo Munoz spent six months upgrading the facility with new modern decor and a more open-concept layout. The restaurant is managed by Munoz's brother, Ramon. 

El Patron carries an extensive menu of appetizers, fajitas, steak, seafood, and build-your-own nachos, quesadillas, and burritos, They offer create-your-own combos, a la carte, and a kids' menu.

Hours
Sunday - Thursday: 10:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

El Patron Cocina Mexicana
536 Plaza Court
918-246-7474
www.elpatroncocinamexicana.com
 

Local authors host book-signing in downtown Sand Springs at Christmas Parade

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Rod's Books and Relics and the Yesterday Shop in downtown Sand Springs is hosting a Parade of Books to coincide with the Chamber of Commerce 35th Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Parade on Friday. 

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

"As the news editor in Sand Springs for four years, as well as simply a resident for about a decade, I fell in love with Sand Springs," says Thompson. "(I want) to reconnect with Sand Springs and give back to the town that helped me so much in my career." Thompson is the author of the Another Series and has published two books with a third on the way. She released Not Another Superhero in 2015 and Just Another Sidekick this year. 

Michael Staires (Tulsa) will be signing copies of A Long Ride Home, a western novel following Billy Christian and his journey into manhood.

Robert E. Parks will be signing copies of his adventure novel MID Knight. TC Stevens leads a team of undercover FBI agents to prevent an old nemesis from acquiring a weapon of mass destruction. 

Peter Biadasz (Tulsa) will be signing copies of Write Your First Book, a self-help guide to turning good ideas into great books with sections on crafting a story, publishing, marketing and sales, and turning speeches into books. 

Brandon Baumgarten (Oilton) will sign copies of Caught Up & Called Out, a self-help book on how to become the leader you were meant to be. 

Jeff South (Broken Arrow) will be signing copies of children's book Kilroy Was Here, the story of a security guard for a private space portal who has to rescue his coworker and prevent aliens from turning the Earth into a resort. 

Anna Myers (Chandler) will be signing copies of her children's book, The Grave Robber's Secret. Set in nineteenth-century Philadelphia, the novel tells of Robby Hare, son of a grave robber, as he tries to expose a fiendish plot involving his father.

Selena McCroskey (Stillwater) will be signing copies of her children's book Patch, the story of a lonesome little scrap of fabric that ventures across the sewing room floor, looking for a place to belong. 

Peggy Perry Anderson (Tulsa) will be signing copies of her Green Light Readers Level 1 children's books. She has published a dozen titles, including Joe on the Go, Let's Clean Up, Out to Lunch, and Chuck's Truck. 

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

The Christmas parade will begin at 7:00 p.m. and the authors will be on hand throughout the event.

Organizers call Inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony a success

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Small businesses aim to make Sand Springs a Christmas destination

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boo on Broadway is a hit in downtown Sand Springs

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

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

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

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

Click here to view our photo gallery.

 

Sand Springs 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.

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.

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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Jaguar Club's EuroMotor Expo raises more than $600 for Sand Springs Animal Welfare

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Sand Springs Animal Control Officer J.E. Schmidt is presented with a check from the Jaguar Club of Tulsa. SUBMITTED.

The Jaguar Club of Tulsa resurrected their annual EuroMotor Extravaganza in downtown Sand Springs this year after a five-year hiatus. The event drew nearly fifty entries and raised $607 for the Sand Springs Animal Shelter.

In addition to the beautiful cars, the event also included a silent auction to benefit the Sand Springs Animal Shelter and an awards banquet and wine bar. The club successfully raised $607, the most they've ever raised according to Vice President Clark Frayser.

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

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

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

This year the club picked up right where they left off, packing out the downtown parking with Fiats, Volvos, MGs, and more. A gorgeous blue sky with a slight breeze and high of 85 degrees made for near-perfect conditions for the festivities. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat opens new Willow Cafe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to register for the event.

Parade of Homes comes to Sand Springs this week

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7th Annual EuroMotor Extravaganza returns to Sand Springs this weekend

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for more information on the Summer Kickoff!