Photo Gallery: CPHS Gold Pride Marching Band celebrates 24 on Senior Night

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The Charles Page High School Gold Pride Marching Band celebrated 24 seniors at halftime of the Sandites’ last football game.

Andrew Berryman is the son of Neil Berryman and the grandson of Peter and Mary Berryman. Andrew has been in band for six years and plans to attend Tulsa Tech after graduation.

Chandler Blake is the son of April Boone and Nathan Blake. Chandler has been in band for seven years and plans to attend the University of Oklahoma after graduating.

James Collins is the son of Laurie and Greg Collins. He has been in band for seven years and is undecided on where he will go to college.

Korbyn Cowan is the son of Amber and Shawn Cowan. He has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology.

Kallie Cox is the daughter of Jessica Seawright, Kurtis Cox, and Vicki Seawright. She has been in band for seven years and pans on attending Tulsa Community College and Northeastern State University.

Steven Dorris is the son of Michael and Sheila Dorris. He has been in band for seven years and plans on enlisting in the United State Army.

Ben Hunt is the son of Todd and Chantel Hunt. He has been in band for seven years and plans on attending the University of Oklahoma.

Holle Keeth is the daughter of Travis Keeth and Cynthia Keeth. She has been in the band for four years. After graduating, Keeth plans on enlisting in the U.S. Army and pursuing a career as a writer.

Sam Keiper is the son of Eric and Michelle Keiper. He has been in band for seven years, and is undecided on his college destination.

Evan Kral is the son of Niki Counce and Dan Kral. He has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Youth America College.

Garrett Lincoln is the son of Rob and Kendra Lincoln. He has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma Baptist University.

Klaire Pinson is the daughter of Melinda Smith and Staff Sergeant Clinton Pinson. She has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Tulsa Community College and Northeastern State University.

Tonja Pipes is the daughter of Heather and Robert Pipes. She has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University.

Kristin Shipley is the daughter of Pam and Darin Shipley. She has been in band for six years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University.

Izzy Smith is the daughter of Daniel and Angela Smith. She has been in band for seven years and is undecided on her college destination.

Blakely Staton is the son of Celeste and Justin Thompson, and Jeremy Staton. He has been in band for seven years. After graduation Staton plans on pursuing a career in aviation and continuing to work at QuikTrip.

Haley Stuckey is the daughter of Erik and Kerri Stuckey. She has been in band on seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University.

Elie Summar is the daughter of Stephanie and Toni Summar. She has been in band for seven years. After graduation Summar plans on becoming an astrophysicist and working at NASA.

Jacelyn Trotter is the daughter of Jason and Mary Ann Trotter. She has been in band for seven years and plans on attending Oklahoma State University.

Luca Vaca is the son of Lana and Stephen Vaca. He has been in band for seven years. After graduation Vaca plans on saving sea turtles.

Amberly Watson is the daughter of Tristia Watson and Lance Watson. She has been in band for seven years and is undecided on her college destination.

Anabeth Wiebe is the daughter of Jesse and Jennifer Wiebe. She has been in band for six years and plans on studying biomedical engineering.

Elizabeth Whittington is the daughter of Amy Whittington. She has been in band for seven years and plans on enlisting in the U.S. Navy.

Wanageeska Nokose Williams is the daughter of Rodney and Sherri Williams. She has been in band for four years, and plans on attending the U.S. Naval Academy.

Sand Springs School District holds commemorative beam-signing at new 9th Grade Center

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Sand Springs Public Schools officials, along with select members of local government and the Chamber of Commerce gathered at Charles Page High School Friday afternoon for a commemorative beam-signing event.

The high school is currently constructing a new $14.28 million freshman academy and STEM center that will unify grades 9-12 on one campus for the first time in decades. Currently the district’s ninth grade center is located in a century-old building, almost a mile from the high school. More than 75% of students are bused from the current ninth grade center to the high school every day for extracurricular activities and certain classes.

The new wing will be conjoined with the existing building through a central lobby, but will keep younger students separated from the upperclassmen for most of the day. In addition to housing the freshmen, the new building will also provide class space for expanded curriculum.

Construction was originally expected to finish in August of 2020, but is ahead of schedule and officials are currently expecting a July completion date. This year’s class of freshmen will be the last students to walk the halls at Central Ninth Grade Center, which was previously Sand Springs High School up till 1954. The historic building will be continue to be used for administrative purposes.

The Clyde Boyd Middle School 8th Grade Student Council was invited to the beam-signing as the first class of students who will occupy the facility.


CPHS Football scoreboard operator Leroy Paddock celebrated after 54 year career

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As the Sandite football team closed out the 2019 season at Sand Springs Memorial Stadium, Leroy Paddock closed out a 54-year career as the Sandites’ scoreboard manager. Paddock was presented with a commemorative plaque from Superintendent Sherry Durkee, Athletic Director Rod Sitton, and Head Coach Dustin Kinard between quarters in the Sandites’ season finale 34-7 loss to Booker T. Washington.

Paddock’s 54-year tenure began in 1965, when the scoreboard was managed from a small elevated box on the sideline, and he had the privilege of running the clock throughout the team’s historic 1966 State Championship campaign.

Sand Springs celebrated its 100th year of Sandite Football this season, and Paddock has been part of the team for more than half of it. He worked under fourteen head coaches and saw the Sandites through both 12-win seasons and 0-10 seasons when the stands were half empty. The team picked up 134 wins with Paddock running the clock.

“Leroy’s attention to the referees is unbelievable,” stated Bob Walker, the 20+ year Voice of Sandite Athletics. “Friday nights can get hectic in the press box, with spotters, 25-second clock operator, members of the press, plus messengers delivering PA notes. Leroy’s focus on the referee’s signals to stop and re-start the clock is completely professional.”

Paddock’s service hasn’t been limited to Friday night football. He has also operated the scoreboard for junior varsity and youth football, soccer, baseball, and softball throughout the year. He will continue to serve the community at Sandite baseball and softball events for the foreseeable future, but is no longer able to climb the steep bleachers at Memorial Stadium, which does not have an elevator to the press box.

Leroy Paddock (front) and Bob Walker (back) at a 2019 Sand Springs Baseball game.

(Robert Lowell Walker contributed to this story).

CPHS Band Director Kyle Wright awarded OkMEA Exemplary Teacher Award, Sandites march in Tulsa Veterans Day Parade

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Charles Page High School Band Director Kyle Wright was recently named as the upcoming recipient of the Oklahoma Music Educators Association (OkMEA) Exemplary Teacher Award. Wright will receive the award on Thursday, January 16, 2020 at the OkMEA Winter Conference at DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Tulsa.

To qualify for the award, teachers must have completed at least 15 years of active service as a music teacher and/or music administrator and must be a member of OkMEA for a minimum of 10 years. They must also demonstrate excellence in the teaching of music, as evidenced by competitions, awards, and peer or administrator statements. Exemplary teachers are nominated by their peers, recommended by the OkMEA Awards committee, and confirmed by the OkMEA Executive Boad.

Wright is married to Sarah Wright and has three children. Jack Molly, and Maggie Wright are all percussionists. Wright was a trumpet student of James Gilmartin and Ron Predi before graduating Muskogee High School in 1990. He holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Tulsa and has completed further study at the University of North Texas.

Wright’s performing career includes being a founding member of Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey with whom he performed nationwide before turning to a career in teaching band. He began his teaching career at Berryhill High School and led the group to an OBA Grand Championship for marching band (their first in the 3A classification). After studying at UNT, he taught for a couple of years in the Carrolton-Farmers Branch School District in Texas before coming to Charles Page High School in Sand Springs.

The CPHS Gold Pride Marching Band recently participated in the OSSAA East Regional at Northeastern State University last week. The band received an Excellent rating for their performance.

In their first performance of the year the Sandites placed 3rd in 6A and 6th overall at the East Central University Tigerpalooza Marching Festival. At the Branson Marching Invitational they were 4th in their class and 7th overall.

Most recently the Gold Pride marched in the 101st Annual Veterans’ Day Parade in downtown Tulsa.

Future events for the band include the December 6th Festival of Lights Christmas Parade in Sand Springs, and a December 7th performance at the Hometown Holiday Christmas Celebration in Sand Springs. The Fine Arts Winter Showcase is scheduled for Thursday, December 12th at the high school.

Sand Springs gearing up for 2nd Annual Hometown Holiday Christmas Celebration

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Although Christmas is still 42 days away, the Christmas season in Sand Springs is already underway. Many Sandites took advantage of last week’s warmer temperatures and hung their Christmas lights with care to beat the winter weather.

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce’s celebrations will kick off in less than a month, with the 37th Annual Festival of Lights.

The Festival of Lights Christmas Parade was cancelled due to winter weather last year, but will return on December 6th at 7:00 p.m. with a theme of “The Sweetest Season of All.” Applications for the parade will be accepted till November 22nd, with $20 fee.

The parade hands out six awards each year. The defending champions are New Life Tabernacle (Best in Show), Studio B Hair and Nail Salon (Best Use of Theme), Miss Tirita’s Dance Studio (Best Marching Unit), Tulsa Tech (Best Use of Lights), Garden Heights Freewill Baptist Church (Best Church), and Cub Scout Pack 63 (Best Showmanship).

The Chamber is also encouraging local businesses to get involved in sprucing up Sand Springs by offering the “Sharp Award” for best-dressed store front. There is no application fee, and competition is not limited to Chamber members. All your business has to do is notify the Chamber that you are participating by December 10th. Judging will take place on December 13th.

On Saturday the downtown area will be filled with music, food trucks, and other activities for the Second Annual Hometown Holiday Christmas Celebration.

Wonderland Stage Schedule of Events
2:00 p.m. Northwoods Elementary Choir
2:35 p.m. Garfield Elementary Choir
3:10 p.m. Pratt Elementary Choir
3:55 p.m. Ms. Tirita’s Dance Studio
4:25 p.m. Limestone Elementary Choir
5:00 p.m. Clyde Boyd Middle School Choir
5:35 p.m. Charles Page High School Choir
6:00 p.m. Santa Sing Along
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Charles Page High School Band, Charles Page Jazz Band, Clyde Boyd Middle School Band, and Sand Springs Community Band.

From 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. there will be carriage rides, a free Santa zone where children can meet St. Nick, and a Kids Zone with free activities provided by local churches.

The Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum will be open for an Ornament Workshop, and Cookie Crawl Passports will be available for pickup. Families are invited to take a passport from the museum and to fill it with stickers from local businesses (who will all have free cookies), then return the completed passport to Santa for a prize. Businesses who wish to be included in the passport should contact the Chamber by November 22nd.

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce can be reached at 918-245-3221 or via email at info@sandspringschamber.com.

One tradition that will not be returning this year, at least not officially, is “Snapped in Sand Springs.” For the past two years the City of Sand Springs encouraged local businesses, churches, and other organizations to set up Thanksgiving, Fall, Winter, and Christmas-themed photo booths and backdrops at their facilities. More than 30 organizations participated each year.

While the City has elected not to organize the event in 2019, businesses can of course still choose to put up photo booths unofficially. Any business doing so is encouraged to let Sandite Pride know so we can share it on our website/social media.

Bill filed to create tax credit for Oklahomans taking gun safety courses

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OKLAHOMA CITY - Senator Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, filed legislation Wednesday to create an income tax credit for Oklahoma citizens who successfully complete the gun safety training course required to get a concealed carry permit.

“Since Constitutional Carry has gone into effect, many people have expressed concerns about no longer forcing people to undergo government-mandated training in order to exercise their rights. Even though we haven’t had any major incidents, I encourage everyone to exercise their rights in a safe and informed way. This bill will allow those who wish to take the training course to do so and then claim an income tax credit for the costs of the course.” Dahm said.

Senate Bill 1090 includes several provisions, including a tax credit for those who complete the course, a tax credit to cover the fingerprinting, pictures, and licensing costs for those who get their concealed carry, as well as a tax credit for those who renew their existing carry permit.

“Whether it’s our second amendment rights to bear arms, first amendment rights to free speech, exercising our religion, or truthfully engaging in the freedom of press, it is important that we all use our rights without harm to others,” Dahm said.  “I look forward to having all those who have expressed concerns about the training requirements to join me in promoting this solution to encourage additional training without government force.”

Three Sand Springs students receive national AP Scholar Award

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Three Charles Page High School students were presented with Sandite Spirit Awards at Monday’s Board of Education meeting. Will Bouchard, Brooke Hester, and Jasper Adams were recognized for academic excellence.

Hester and Adams recently received the AP Scholar Award for scoring a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams. Bouchard received the AP Scholar with Honors Award for scoring a 3 or higher on four or more AP exams, with an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken.

“It’s great for kids to make good grades at Charles Page,” said CPHS Principal Stan Trout. “But this is something that the best students in the United States do. AP credit is hugely important and it shows that they are competitive not just here, but nationally as well.”

Board of Education presents Sandite Spirit Award to Landon Durborow

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Angus Valley Elementary second-grade student Landon Durborow was presented with a Sandite Spirit Award at Monday evening’s Board of Education meeting. Board President Jackie Wagnon praised Durborow for his “servant’s heart.”

“He has developed wisdom beyond his years,” said Wagnon. “He knows the meaning of being a servant.”

“This little boy definitely has Sandite Spirit,” added Angus Valley Principal Angelia Noel. “He comes by it honestly. He comes from a great family full of great people. Every day when you see him he has a smile on his face. He stays after lunch and helps the custodians clean up. No one’s ever asked him to do that, he just does it because he’s sweet.”

Durborow is also a star on the elementary cross country team, placing in the top-25 at this year’s Case Cross Country Invitational and running a 7:23 mile at the Holland Hall Invitational.

Scott Watkins receives Pacesetter Award from Sand Springs Board of Education

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Charles Page High School Assistant Baseball Coach Scott Watkins was presented with the Pacesetter Award at Monday evening’s Board of Education meeting for his work in maintaining and improving the Sandite Athletic Complex where the Baseball and Softball teams play. Watkins is a CPHS alumni and former Major League Baseball player, who had stents with the Tulsa Drillers and the Minnesota Twins.

Not only has Watkins been coaching the baseball team and maintaining the Athletic Complex grounds throughout the fall Softball season, during which the Lady Sandites hosted a Regional Tournament, but he has also been working to restore his home, which fell victim to the historic flooding that devastated Sand Springs this past May.

“I was fortunate enough to play at the highest level of the game and play on some beautiful fields,” said Watkins. “I want our kids to feel the same way. To play on a beautiful field that’s well manicured. That may be the closest chance they ever get to play on a field like that.”

What's Happening This Week in Sand Springs (11/3- 11/10/19)

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Sunday

  • 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. 3-String Mobile Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

Monday

  • 12:00 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Open Forum.

    • RSVP Required.

    • Tulsa Tech - Sand Springs
      924 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 1:00 p.m. Charles Page High School Alumni Association meeting.

    • The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge
      1801 North McKinley Road

  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Planning Commission meeting.

  • 5:30 p.m. Sand Springs Public Schools District Dialogue meeting.

    • CPHS Performing Arts Building
      600 North Adams Road

  • 6:00 p.m. Board of Adjustment Meeting - CANCELED.

  • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Acrylic Painting Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Education meeting.

Tuesday

  • 10:30 a.m. Build a Reader Storytime / Stay and Play.

    • Charles Page Library
      551 East 4th Street

  • 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Art Class for Kids.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Breakfast for Dinner - Fundraiser.

    • Have pancakes for dinner while watching the Lady Sandite Basketball team scrimmage Holland Hall and Tulsa Rogers. Tickets are $7.00.

    • Ed Dubie Field House
      600 North Adams Road

Wednesday

  • 6:30 p.m. CPHS Volleyball Banquet.

    • Olivet Baptist Church
      155 North 65th West Avenue

Thursday

  • 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Build a Reader Storytime / Stay ad Play.

    • Pratt Library
      3219 South 113th West Avenue

  • 1:15 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. Beginners Drawing Class.
    6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Drawing/Perspective Adult Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO

    • American Legion - Billie A. Hall Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Friday

  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Football vs. Booker T. Washington.

    • Memorial Stadium
      600 North Adams Road

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Hike With Your Dog Day.

    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive

  • 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Veteran Track Awareness.

  • 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 10th Annual 2 Angels Toy Run.

On The Horizon

  • 11/19 - Meet the Sandites.

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Gas services restored at Charles Page High School

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Gas services have officially been restored to Charles Page High School following an extensive effort to install new gas lines and meters.

According to a statement from the district, “Oklahoma Natural Gas was able to complete the gas meter installation and our contractor was able to connect the new gas line to the meter. ONG completed a substantial amount of testing, and has now resumed gas service to Charles Page High School. Approximately 80% of the heaters will be turned on tonight.”

The school has been without central heat throughout the school year, a problem that reached its peak in the past 48 hours with outside daytime temperatures below 50 degrees. The district attempted to offset the conditions with space-heaters and stated Wednesday that classroom temperatures never dipped below 60 degrees.

TTCU breaks ground on new Sand Springs branch

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TTCU Federal Credit Union broke ground on a new branch in Sand Springs on Oct. 30. The branch will be part of TTCU's network of branches serving communities in northeast Oklahoma. 

"TTCU is excited to join the River West Development," TTCU President and CEO Tim Lyons said. "Our members have been wanting a branch in Sand Springs for a long time, and this location will be easy to access."

The branch will be located at the entrance of the 30-acre River West Development at the intersection of Main St. and Morrow Rd. The 2,700 square-foot, energy-efficient branch was designed by Cyntergy and will be built by Cowen Construction.

"I'd like to welcome TTCU to the Sand Springs community," Mayor Jim Spoon said. "Sand Springs has been experiencing a lot of growth, and TTCU is helping us continue to build that momentum."

The branch employs a hybrid design – in-between a traditional branch and an open-concept branch - to meet multigenerational needs. The branch entrance features community space with seating and a coffee bar, and a wall of glass brings lots of natural light. Four offices will provide also space for meeting with branch staff. In addition to traditional tellers, the branch will also feature cutting-edge technology. Three interactive teller machines will connect members with video tellers for simple transactions to cut down on wait times. 

"It's great news that TTCU is moving forward with their investment in our community, and we're excited to see this project come to fruition," City Manager Elizabeth Gray said. "They will be a great addition to the retail and restaurants already in place in the River West Development."

The new branch is expected to open in 2020.

Congenital Syphilis Cases in Oklahoma Increasing at An Alarming Rate; Health Care Providers Urged to Increase Testing of Pregnant Women

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Oklahoma has experienced a 283% increase in the number of congenital syphilis cases in women since 2014. The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is already seeing a 92% increase in the number of cases from 2018 to 2019, and is urging health care providers to test patients during the first and third trimesters.

Congenital syphilis is an infectious disease transmitted by an infected mother to her baby in the womb. Adults transmit syphilis through sexual contact but mothers can transmit the infection to their baby in the womb or through the birthing process. The disease can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, death shortly after birth, prematurity and birth defects. A woman can be treated and cured for syphilis during pregnancy, but it is important for women to be tested in time for treatment to be effective. Babies who test positive for syphilis at birth must be treated immediately to prevent serious health issues. 

Terrainia Harris, an administrative program manager for the OSDH Sexual Health and Harm Reduction (SHHR) Service, said it is important for women to be tested at the first prenatal visit or at the time pregnancy is confirmed, and again early in the third trimester.

“The most effective method for getting ahead of this epidemic is early testing and treatment,” said Harris. “The resurgence of syphilis cases in recent years highlights the fact that challenges remain and we are encouraging clinicians to get back to basics with syphilis prevention, testing, and treatment. We are asking them to assist us in focusing efforts to strengthen treatment administration and adherence, as well as improve case identification and reporting.”

The OSDH is working to address the issue by collaborating with health care providers and community partners to engage in education, partnership and planning. The SHHR Service is hosting a call to action for providers, Nov. 8, at the Nicholson Conference Center on the University of Oklahoma Medical Center campus. To register for the event, providers can visit https://addressingcongenitalsyphilis.eventbrite.com.

A person can have syphilis and not have any signs or symptoms. Symptoms may also be very mild or may be mistaken for symptoms of other illnesses. The only way to know for sure if someone is infected is through testing. It is important for everyone to include testing for sexually transmitted diseases as a part of their routine health care. This doesn’t only apply to pregnant women and their babies. It’s important for their sexual partner to be tested and treated as well.

Prenatal care is a key component to the overall health and wellness of a mother and her unborn child. The sooner a woman begins receiving medical care during pregnancy, the better the health outcomes for her and the unborn baby. Anyone wishing to be tested for syphilis or any other sexually transmitted infection should contact a health care provider or a local county health department.

For further information about diagnosing or treating syphilis, contact the SHHR Service at (405) 271-4636.

What's Happening This Week in Sand Springs (10/27- 11/3/19)

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Sunday

  • 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. 3-String Mobile Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 2:30 p.m. Sand Springs Community Theater presents, “12 Angry Women.”

    • Central Ninth Grade Center - Auditorium.
      14 West 4th Street

  • 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Boo at Case Park / Movie on the Lawn “Hocus Pocus.”

    • Case Community Park
      2500 South River City Road

Monday

Tuesday

  • 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Art Class for Kids.
    4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Art Class for Kids.
    6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Beginners Drawing Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 6:00 p.m. 4th Annual Monster Ball - CANCELED.

  • 7:00 p.m. Harlem Wizards game.

    • Ed Dubie Field House
      600 North Adams Road

Wednesday

  • 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Build a Reader Storytime / Stay and Play.

    • Charles Page Library
      551 East 4th Street

  • 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Pop In and Paint.
    4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Art Class for Kids.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

Thursday

  • 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Storytime!

    • Pratt Library
      3219 South 113th West Avenue

  • 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Art Class for Kids.
    4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Art Class for Kids.
    6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Drawing/Perspective Adult Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO

    • American Legion - Billie A. Hall Post 17
      500 North Main Street

  • 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Trunk or Treat.

    • First Assembly of God
      501 West 5th Street

  • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Fall Festival.

    • Broadway Baptist Church
      1000 North Adams Road

  • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Fall Carnival & Trunk or Treat.

    • Angus Church
      4401 South 129th West Avenue

  • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Trunk or Treat.

    • Sand Springs Church of Christ
      4301 South 113th West Avenue

  • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Family Fun Festival.

    • CrossPoint Church
      4600 South 129th West Avenue

Friday

  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Football vs. Sapulpa.

  • 7:30 p.m. Free Concert with Tim Menzies.

    • 5 West Outpost
      5 West 41st Street

Saturday

  • 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Chipper Days.

    • Free wood chips, free firewood, and free chipping of limbs up to 2” in diameter. Must bring Sand Springs Water Bill for proof of residency.

    • Sand Springs Street Department
      8620 West 21st Street

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Open Hike Day.

    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive

  • 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Rock 4-H Chili Dinner.

    • Rock Fire Department
      11313 West 48th Street North

  • 7:30 p.m. Free Concert with Tim Menzies.

    • 5 West Outpost
      5 West 41st Street

Sunday

  • 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. 3-String Mobile Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

On The Horizon

  • 11/9 - 10th Annual 2 Angels Toy Run.

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Sand Springs City Council names new commercial development

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The Sand Springs City Council voted on the naming of the new commercial development on the site of the former Sheffield Steel Mill at their regular Monday meeting. The City has been prepping the 18-acre development for the past year since purchasing the land from OmniTRAX, and decided Monday to name the area Sheffield Plaza.

The commercial development was initially begun by OmniTRAX, who intended to spearhead the construction of a shopping center by the name of Sheffield Crossing. The company later decided to focus on the railroad and industrial development, but agreed to sell 18 acres of Highway 97 frontage to the City.

Because OmniTRAX owns the name Sheffield Crossing, and is still using it to refer to their operations immediately behind the development, the City had to find a new name. They were, however, given permission to use the word “Sheffield.” In a 5-1 vote, Council decided on Sheffield Plaza. Brian Jackson, Phil Nollan, Mike Burdge, Nancy Riley, and Patty Dixon were in favor, and Beau Wilson dissented. Mayor Jim Spoon was absent from the meeting.

Other names considered included “Sheffield Landing,” “Mill Landing,” “Mill Road Plaza,” “Mill Plaza,” and the “Shoppes at Sheffield Crossing.” “The Shoppes at Sheffield Crossing” was deemed inappropriate because the City is primarily hoping to attract a large box store, which wouldn’t leave much room for smaller shops. 

Council also voted unanimously on “Huskey Boulevard” as the street name for the Highway 97 entrance to the development. The name is in honor of former Assistant Chief of Police Jesse Huskey, who is the only Sand Springs Police Officer to ever lose his life in the line of duty. The entrance to the development is expected to be completed by November 30th.

Other names submitted included “Steel Mill Road,” “Mill Avenue,” “Sheffield Street,” “River Road,” and “Armco Avenue.” Those names will remain on the table for additional roads that will likely be constructed within the development in the future.

Sand Springs is hoping to attract a lumber/hardware store to Sheffield Plaza, but is open to any prospective businesses. The property is in the most highly-trafficked section of Sand Springs, with visibility from both Highway 97 and Highway 412.

Council also unanimously approved an amended agreement with Axon for police video services. The agreement will see a $40,950 increase to an existing contract over a four-year period, and will allow the Police Department to store all body camera and dashboard camera footage indefinitely. While the department does flag video for indefinite storage in cases where they expect there may be need of it, the bulk of the department’s video is deleted after six months.

“I think what’s very important is to at least keep (all footage) for two years, because that’s the statute of limitations on bringing a claim in federal court against the City if someone were to feel something we’ve done is wrong,” said Police Chief Mike Carter.

Carter painted a hypothetical scenario in which a parent or guardian might not become aware of a law enforcement interaction with their child until months after the fact, such as a minor traffic stop. He also pointed to a recent DUI case that the City lost in court due to footage that was automatically deleted.

“In this case that we lost, it happened that the person didn’t show up for court, there was a warrant out for awhile. It was a simple first offense DUI…the video got deleted because it wasn’t something that rose to the level that the officer felt that he needed to retain it.”

“That being said, that wasn’t the biggest reason that we wanted to do this,” said Carter. “We want the truth on every case to be shown. We don’t want people to feel that we’re ever not being open or transparent. In my estimation, video is one the of the great things that has happened in law enforcement.”

In other news:

Vice-Mayor Patty Dixon presented a Mayoral Proclamation to the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce, proclaiming November 30th, 2019 as Small Business Saturday in Sand Springs. Small Business Saturday is a national movement encouraging holiday shoppers to visit small, locally owned operations on the weekend of Black Friday in order to stimulate the local economy. Chamber President Kristin Cepak received the proclamation.

Council unanimously approved an interlocal agreement gifting a 1990 E-One Stratosphere Quint Fire Ladder Truck to the neighboring town of Mannford. Sand Springs recently purchased a new ladder truck and no longer has regular need for the 30-year old model. The agreement also allows for Sand Springs to request the truck in the event that extra help is needed. “I can’t thank you guys enough on behalf of the City of Mannford,” said visiting Mayor Tyler Buttram.

Council unanimously approved a resolution calling for an election in Wards 3 and 4. Those seats are currently occupied by Burdge and Riley, respectively. The filing period will be from December 2-4 and candidates can file their declaration of candidacy with the City Clerk between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.  – 5:00 p.m.

Council unanimously approved the purchase of 20 Motorola APX 900 Portable Radios for the Parks and Public Works departments, at a cost of $39,992.65.

Council unanimously approved a Utility Easement Encroachment Agreement with the Villas at Stone Creek Estates. McGuire Brothers Construction recently completed the installation of 1,447 linear feet of 8-inch SDR-35 PVC and 81 linear feet of 8-inch C-900 PVC sanitary sewer pipe at a cost of $103,429.

Council unanimously approved a Specific Use Permit to allow a Medical Marijuana Processing facility at an existing dispensary. Harvest Health Dispensary opened at 1104 West Wekiwa Road in April of 2019 and has been working toward processing in-house.

Council unanimously approved the Sand Springs Pogue Airport 5-year Capital Improvement Projects Plan, which is submitted annually to the Federal Aviation Administration and Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission.

Council unanimously approved the City Council 2020 Meeting Schedule.

Council unanimously approved a resolution affirming dilapidation public nuisance administrative hearing findings and authorizing the demolition of a vacant residential building at 213 ½ North Industrial Avenue. The City has been working with property owners since February of 2018 to have the secondary building repaired, but work has not progressed. It is currently deemed unfit for human occupancy, and due to its location, is at risk of being occupied by vagrants.

Council unanimously approved an ordinance switching the collection of hotel/motel tax from City staff to the Oklahoma Tax Commission. The City currently levies a 7% excise tax on hotel/motel gross receipts for the purpose of promoting economic development, cultural enhancement, and tourism. The OTC will assume responsibility for collecting the taxes on behalf of the city.

The Municipal Authority meeting convened following City Council. Trustees approved an amendment to an agreement for engineering services with Tetra Tech for the design and construction services for a second One Way Surge Tank in the Skiatook Raw Water Conveyance System. Sand Springs will fund 60% of the $31,500 contract, with Sapulpa funding 40%. Trustees approved a resolution authorizing the acquisition of five new easements to aid the Municipal Authority raw water line.

Trustees unanimously voted to award a $1,039,000 bid to GH2 Architects for renovations at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course clubhouse. The funding was approved by voters in a 2018 general obligation bond election. GH2 had the lowest of six bids.

Trustees also awarded a $570,402.84 bid to Heckenkemper Golf Course Design for the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge course improvements. Heckenkemper had the lowest of two bids. The funding for the project will also come from a 2018 GO Bond.

City of Sand Springs awards $2 million in improvements at Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course

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The Sand Springs City Council approved two resolutions during the October 28th City Council meeting which put into play construction plans to improve the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge Golf Club. The approved plans propel new contracts which are funded by the 2018 general obligation bond measure, which allocated $2M to make much needed improvements to the City’s course.

“These initial improvements will concentrate on the interior bones of the facility as well as the underground infrastructure work throughout the course,” stated Jeff Edwards, Parks Director for the City. “We’re building the foundation of the future for this facility. In doing this difficult work up front, we’ll create seamless transition options for future improvements with minimal downtime in course play.”

Approximately $1M of the funding will be invested on a significant clubhouse remodel project. The work will produce a much more modern, space-efficient layout for golf pro, special event and golf course grill operations including a fresh look to the clubhouse overall. The remainder of funds will be invested into a modernized and automated irrigation system, golf green replacement package and more.

“These improvements will play a major role in our goal to offer the best possible golfing experience we can,” stated Director of Golf Brian Talley for the City, whose golf operations team has made great strides with the popular course recently.

All of this work will commence before the year’s end. Golfers who enjoy one of Oklahoma’s top- rated golf courses in the Tulsa metro area should plan to see the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge closing for play during the spring and summer months of 2020. The temporary golf course closure has been determined to be the most efficient and least disruptive method for progress in order to expedite the remodel and construction work.

The clubhouse is expected to be closed December 2019 through July 2020. Staff will operate from a mobile office to keep the golf course open until the course construction company mobilizes and commences work. The golf course itself is slated to be closed from late February 2020 through much of the summer, hopefully reopening before Labor Day.

All of this work is designed to keep this tourism and quality of life destination in top condition and ready for play for many years to come. The golf pros at the Canyons and City Parks staff are excited to show the public the finished result, and are already planning a special event when the course reopens before the fall of 2020.

Once work begins, golfers can follow construction progress and receive updates from staff at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge’s Face Book page. For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit www.sandspringsok.org and follow the City’s social media on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

Pre-registration open for young voters at 17.5 starting Nov. 1

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OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma citizens will be able to pre-register to vote when they turn 17.5 years old thanks to a new law going into effect on November 1. Senator Jason Smalley, R-Stroud, and Representative Zack Taylor, R-Seminole, authored Senate Bill 496 this past session to make it easier for young voters to remember to get registered to vote before they turn 18.

“Voting is one of our greatest freedoms, and that first time to vote is such a memorable experience. Unfortunately, many forget that they have to register 60 days before the election and end up not being able to vote until the following year,” Smalley said. “Hopefully, by using age rather than a specific time period, it’ll be easier for people to remember to get registered to vote and we’ll see more of Oklahoma’s youth getting involved in the voting process.” 

Currently, a 17-year-old can pre-register to vote 60 days before an election if their 18th birthday is on or before election day. The new law will allow citizens to pre-register when they turn 17.5 regardless of when the election occurs as long as they will turn 18 on or before election day.

“We hope this bill will encourage more young people to do their civic duty and elect candidates to represent their interests at the local, state and national level,” said Taylor, R-Seminole.

SB 496 is among more than 300 new laws set to go into effect on November 1.

State Board approves $3.29 billion common education budget request for Fiscal Year 2021

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OKLAHOMA CITY  – The Oklahoma State Board of Education approved a Fiscal Year 2021 budget request of $3.29 billion for common education, which includes an increase of nearly $220 million over last year. The request seeks to restore critical instructional funding, including funds to reduce class sizes and hire additional teachers and school counselors.

“This proposed budget reflects the real needs of Oklahoma students,” said Joy Hofmeister, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “We have made great strides in teacher pay and must now continue our investment in classrooms and student support. This budget request will help us reach the goals outlined in our 8-year strategic plan, Oklahoma Edge.”

This year’s request includes an increase of $117.9 million to the state funding formula, to be used to hire additional teachers to reduce class sizes. Rising health insurance benefit costs for school teachers and staff account for an additional $32.8 million.

The budget request also includes $19 million for a School Counselor Corps, a critical investment due to the state’s high student-to-counselor ratio, which, at 421-to-1, far exceeds the 250-to-1 recommendation by the American School Counseling Association. The corps will assist in providing the supports students need in elementary, middle and high school and will help meet the requirements for successful implementation of Individual Career Academic Planning, or ICAP. Beginning this school year, ICAP is a graduation requirement for all ninth-grade students.

Oklahoma has the highest incidence of childhood trauma in the country, including family violence, substance abuse and other challenges that adversely impact learning. The School Counselor Corps will be instrumental in supporting students who have experienced similar hardships.

The FY21 budget request also includes an additional $42.6 million for Support of Students and Teachers, a line item that directly impacts classroom programs and investments. Key areas that would receive additional funding include:

  • Alternative education programs to reduce dropout rates and increase graduation rates

  • School support, to provide resources that facilitate rapid school and academic improvement

  • A competitive grant pool that will increase district access to a variety of reading, math, robotics and other student success programs

  • Sooner Start Early Intervention program for children age birth through 36 months with developmental delays

  • Required and enhanced assessments

  • Development of a digital transcript

View the complete FY21 budget request here.

Church That Matters opens free Mobile Medical Clinic in Sand Springs

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Good Samaritan Health Services and Church That Matters held a grand opening and ribbon cutting at their new Sand Springs Mobile Medical Clinic Tuesday. The free bi-monthly clinic will provide comprehensive medical care for the uninsured at 3 West 41st Street.

Church That Matters Pastor Rusty Gunn, Good Samaritan President John Crouch, and other individuals involved in the clinic spoke at the grand opening event. A line of patients was already forming well before the doors opened for the first time.

“We are so very delighted to be in the Sand Springs community,” said Crouch. “We have seen that Sand Springs is a community that really cares and shares and really helps each other.”

The clinic will be open to the public on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month, opening at 4:30 p.m. The only requirement for patients to receive medical care at the clinic is that they have no health insurance. Walk-in patients are welcome. Any person wanting to receive medical care at the clinic should arrive at 4:30 p.m. Patients will be triaged and as many patients will receive services as resources will allow. Anyone unable to see a physician on the day of the clinic will have a future appointment made.

Each clinic will provide quality comprehensive medical care for approximately 10 to 12 people. Gunn hopes to be able to bring the clinic to Sand Springs weekly in the near future.

“Our church’s mission is to be a church that matters to God, to each other, to our city, and to our world,” said Gunn. “We’ve just seen this great need for health care for those who don’t have access to that. Oklahoma is 47th in overall health, 49th in cardiovascular disease, 44th in preventable hospitalization, and 43rd in diabetes. We know that there are people within this city…who sometimes have to make a choice between getting healthcare, and eating.”

Volunteers from Church that Matters along with Good Samaritan staff members will operate the clinic. This is Good Samaritan’s 13th Mobile Medical Clinic location in the greater Tulsa area. Good Samaritan’s Mobile Medical Clinics provide medical care at over 5,500 patient visits each year. Many individuals in the greater Tulsa area have come to rely on these clinics as their primary care provider.

“Our church will always have more vision than we have resource to accomplish,” said Gunn. “It takes community partners and those who are willing to jump in on those causes.” Gunn praised local philanthropists Montie and Betty Box for contributing to the clinic, as well as Ron and Pat Halcomb, and Green Country Federal Credit Union. Susan Hood will be the Site Coordinator for the clinic.

“A big thanks to the people of Church That Matters who are willing to take risks, willing to do things outside of the box, willing to do whatever it takes to see that mission accomplished. So many people from our church have jumped on board to volunteer.”

Church That Matters is known for pioneering nontraditional ministries. The church operates the Prattville Market and Southside Coneys in the same shopping center as fundraisers for their various charities and ministries. They also own the Lee’s Charburgers food truck, which is currently closed but expected to resume operations in the future.

CTM is an active member of the Sand Springs Local Church Network and is frequently involved in community events. They are one of the first churches in the state to offer a special service on Sundays geared specifically towards families with special needs children. They also operate a free coat rack at Prattville Market during the winter months, and have been extremely proactive in helping the community recover from the historic May flooding that devastated multiple neighborhoods along the Arkansas River.

SEE RELATED:
Sand Springs woman opening free health clinic in Sapulpa
SouthSide Coneys holds grand opening, owned by Church That Matters

 

What's Happening This Week in Sand Springs (10/20- 10/27/19)

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Sunday

  • 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. 3-String Mobile Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

Monday

  • 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Planning Commission meeting.

  • 6:00 p.m. Sand Springs Board of Adjustment meeting.

  • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Acrylic Painting Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

Tuesday

  • 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Art Class for Kids.
    4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Art Class for Kids.
    6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Beginners Drawing Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 4:30 p.m. Good Samaritan Health Clinic day.

    • Church That Matters
      3 West 41st Street

  • 7:00 p.m. Family Dinner Night.

    • American Legion Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Wednesday

  • 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Build a Reader Storytime / Stay and Play.

    • Charles Page Library
      551 East 4th Street

  • 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Pop In and Paint.
    4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Art Class for Kids.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

Thursday

  • 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Storytime!

    • Pratt Library
      3219 South 113th West Avenue

  • 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Art Class for Kids.
    6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Drawing/Perspective Adult Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. “Scare Up a Good Book” Literacy Night.

    • See attached flyer for details.

    • Garfield STEAM Academy
      701 North Roosevelt

  • 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Mummy and Son Dance.

    • Northwoods Fine Arts Academy
      1691 Old North Road

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO

    • American Legion - Billie A. Hall Post 17
      500 North Main Street

  • 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. West Fest.

    • Tulsa Community College - West Campus
      7505 West 41st Street

  • 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Senior Graduation Service.

    • Phoenix Academic Center
      680 East 41st Street

  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs Community Theater presents, “12 Angry Women.”

    • Central Ninth Grade Center - Auditorium.
      14 West 4th Street

Friday

  • 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Open House.

    • Billie A. Hall Public Safety Center
      602 West Morrow Road

  • 6:00 p.m. Trunk or Treat.

    • Chandler Park
      6500 West 21st Street

  • 7:00 p.m. CPHS Football vs. Bixby.

    • Spartan Stadium
      601 South Riverview Drive
      Bixby, OK 74008

  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs Community Theater presents, “12 Angry Women.”

    • Central Ninth Grade Center - Auditorium.
      14 West 4th Street

Saturday

  • 8:00 a.m. Sandite Dance at TSF Dance Championship.

    • 2:36 p.m. Sand Springs Junior High - 7th Grade Pom.
      3:45 p.m. CPHS Varsity Pom.
      5:15 p.m. Awards
      Click here for full schedule.

    • Union Multipurpose Activity Center
      6836 South Mingo Road
      Tulsa, OK 74133

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Open Hike Day.

    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive

  • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Free Coat and Costume Giveaway.

    • See attached flyer for details.

    • Sand Springs Care Closet
      3417 South 113th West Avenue

  • 9:15 a.m. CPHS Cross Country at 6A-East Regionals.
    9:15 a.m. Coaches Meeting.
    10:00 a.m. 6A Girls.
    10:45 a.m. 6A Boys.
    12:00 p.m. 5A Girls.
    12:45 p.m. 5A Boys.

    • Case Community Park
      2500 South River City Park Road

  • 10:00 a.m. Osage County Republican Officials town hall meeting.

    • Pawhuska Community Center
      520 Lynn Avenue
      Pawhuska, OK 74056

  • 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Paint Night with the kids.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs Community Theater presents, “12 Angry Women.”

    • Central Ninth Grade Center - Auditorium.
      14 West 4th Street

Sunday

  • 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. 3-String Mobile Class.

    • ZegART Studios
      700 East Charles Page Boulevard

  • 2:30 p.m. Sand Springs Community Theater presents, “12 Angry Women.”

    • Central Ninth Grade Center - Auditorium.
      14 West 4th Street

  • 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Boo at Case Park / Movie on the Lawn “Hocus Pocus.”

    • Case Community Park
      2500 South River City Road

On The Horizon

  • 11/9 - 10th Annual 2 Angels Toy Run.

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  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.