Oklahoma reports first pediatric death from COVID-19, record-high 499 Oklahomans hospitalized

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Oklahoma County alert graphic.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 510 new cases of COVID-19 Monday, bringing the cumulative total to 20,745 since the pandemic began. There have been 15,815 recoveries and 424 deaths, leaving a new record-high of 4,506 active cases.

499 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized - the most since the pandemic began. Oklahoma hospital beds are currently at 20.3% capacity overall, and Adult ICU is at 82% capacity.

Sand Springs reported one new case on Monday, bringing the cumulative total to 98. Two more Sandites recovered from the virus, leaving 16 active cases. Tulsa County currently has 1,143 active cases.

The OSDH reported the state’s first pediatric death from COVID-19 Sunday evening. “I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of the state’s first child impacted by COVID-19 since the pandemic arrived in Oklahoma,” said Interim Health Commissioner Lance Frye, MD. “Our prayers are with the family and community as they mourn the loss of a young, innocent life. It is critical for Oklahomans to partner with us in following the latest public health guidance to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and protect our most vulnerable populations. Wash your hands often, limit social engagements, and consider wearing a mask where physical distancing is challenging.”

Commissioner Frye and the OSDH would like to remind Oklahomans that preventive measures - including frequently washing hands, limiting social engagements and wearing a mask where physical distancing is challenging – are essential actions to take as the threat of the virus remains within our communities.

OSDH provides free COVID-19 testing at 80 locations throughout Oklahoma and encourages everyone to get tested. An interactive map of testing sites can be found by clicking here.

“This heartbreaking tragedy underscores how important it is for us all to wear masks when in public,  follow social distancing guidelines and practice good hygiene,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister. 

“Students need to learn. We want schools to reopen this fall, but for that to happen, it is critical that Oklahomans take decisive actions now to mitigate spread of the virus. Wearing a mask around other people is a small sacrifice for the sake of literally saving lives. We owe it to our children, teachers and staff for them to be able to go to school knowing that strong safeguards are in place for their safety and well-being.” 

Hofmeister acknowledged that some parents might find distance learning to be a preferable course of action. She commended many school districts that are providing such options for their families. 

“School is vital, especially after the significant learning loss from last spring’s building closures,” she said. “At the same time, we must take every precaution to protect our children and those who serve in schools across this state.”

Sunday’s death is the first in Oklahoma in the 5-17 age demographic. There have been 6 deaths in the 18-35 demographic, 10 in the 36-49 age range, 67 in the 50-64 range, and 340 in the 65+ group.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 3,296,599 cases nationwide with 134,884 deaths. There have been 60,469 new cases and 312 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma is 33rd in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in deaths (38th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 12,768,307 cumulative cases and 566,654 deaths worldwide. There have been 215,539 new cases and 5,037 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. The United State continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,839,850 and India with 878,254.

What's Happening This Week in Sand Springs (7/12 - 7/19/2020)

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Monday

Tuesday

  • 8:30 a.m. Tax Increment District Review Committee meeting.

  • 4:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Good Samaritan Free Health Clinic.

    • Church That Matters
      3 West 41st Street

  • 7:00 p.m. Sand Springs Public Schools District Dialogue.

Thursday

  • 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Free concert - Chris Hyde.

    • POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat
      5323 West 31st Street North
      Tulsa, OK 74127

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO.

    • American Legion Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Friday

  • 7:30 p.m. Free concert - Halo Jordan and Branded.

    • 5 West Outpost
      5 West 41st Street

Saturday

  • 7:30 p.m. Free concert - Halo Jordan and Branded.

    • 5 West Outpost
      5 West 41st Street

Sunday

  • 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hike with Your Dog Day.

    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Oklahoma reports 596 new cases of COVID-19 and record-high 487 hospitalizations

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The OSDH launched a new COVID-19 alert system Thursday, color-coding counties according to risk level.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 596 new cases of COVID-19 Friday, bringing the cumulative total to 19,092 since the pandemic began. Active cases have surpassed 4,000 for the first time, and a record-high 487 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized. There have been six new deaths reported, bringing the statewide death toll to 416.

Sand Springs reported no new cases for the second straight day. Two more Sandites have recovered from the virus, leaving 17 active cases.

On Thursday the OSDH launched a new COVID-19 alert system that offers the public and local elected officials a clear method to recognize and communicate the current COVID-19 risk level in each county and to guide health behaviors.

The Oklahoma COVID-19 Alert System is a four-tiered risk measurement tool with corresponding color categories that identify the current COVID-19 risk level by county.

“This new COVID-19 alert system marries OSDH’s robust data reporting with additional public health steps that should be considered county by county to confront elevated risks of community spread,” said Interim Health Commissioner Lance Frye, M.D. “The color-coded system is an easy way for business owners, local leaders, and the public to know at a glance when extra precautions should be taken.”

Each color category is based on daily new cases per 100,000 population. The color-coded county map will be updated every Friday as part of the agency’s 11 a.m. Situation Media Advisory and will be based on the 7-day rolling average:

  • Green: 0 < 1.43 daily new cases per 100,000 population

  • Yellow: 43 < 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 population

  • Orange: > 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 population

  • Red: > 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 plus one of four additional gates triggered

OSDH will deem a county as in a high-risk phase if the county is reporting more than 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 and one or more of the four thresholds occur in the State within a given week.  

  • Statewide ICU threshold: Percent of ICU beds available <5% statewide

  • Statewide Medical/Surgical threshold: Percent of medical surgery beds available <5% statewide

  • Statewide Ventilator threshold: Percent of ventilators available <5% statewide

  • Facility PPE threshold: Average days of PPE on hand and available < 5 days statewide

The State will work with local officials in red counties on a remediation plan.

The red phase is triggered when additionally assessing statewide health system capacity definitions, assumptions and plans in the Oklahoma Hospital Surge Planning Toolkit and with assessing numbers based on hospitals’ bed capacity at 100%. This status indicates statewide, systemic challenges and pressures on the healthcare system resulting from COVID-19.

This new alert system is subject to further revisions. Guidance for each risk category is available for individuals, businesses, high-risk individuals, and children on the COVID-19 dashboard at coronavirus.health.ok.gov.

Tulsa County is currently listed in the Moderate (orange) risk phase with 75 total deaths and 996 active cases. The moderate risk phase indicates greater than 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 population. On Friday, Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum announced that he has directed the City of Tulsa Legal Department to draft an ordinance for consideration by City Council at their next Wednesday meeting. The ordinance, if passed, will require face-coverings in public places.

The Centers for Disease Control and prevention are reporting 3,106,931 cumulative cases nationwide with 132,855 deaths. There have been 59,260 new cases and 799 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma currently ranks 34th in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in total deaths (37th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 12,102,328 total cases worldwide with 551,046 deaths. There have been 228,102 new cases reported in the past 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,713,160 and India with 793,802.

2020 Great Raft Race canceled due to COVID-19

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The Great Tulsa Raft Race, scheduled for Labor Day, has been canceled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The race ran from 1973 to 1991 before being canceled, then was resurrected in 2015 by the Tulsa Young Professional Foundation.

“Due to public health concerns, the Board of Directors for Tulsa’s Great Raft Race, Inc. made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Labor Day event,” reads a Thursday press release. “The safety of all participants and attendees is our top priority, and as COVID-19 cases have risen, we do not feel we can produce an event that properly adheres to social distancing recommendations.”

“We were hoping to get everyone back outside to enjoy the recreational opportunities of the Arkansas River, while also highlighting STEM education principles, but we feel at this time it is best to focus our efforts on 2021 event planning.”

“The Great Raft Race brings thousands of people to the banks of the river every year on Labor Day starting in Sand Springs Case Community Park, floating 8 miles downriver, and ending at River Parks West Festival Park. The event was originally started in 1973 and ended in 1991 before its current revival in 2015. Tulsa’s Great Raft Race, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization, and could not be produced annually without the generous support of our sponsors, corporate and non-profit partners, and hundreds of volunteers that make this Labor Day tradition a reality. We look forward to seeing you on the river in 2021!”

Oklahoma reports new records in COVID-19 hospitalization and single-day case increase

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported a new record increase in COVID-19 cases Tuesday. The 858 new cases are a significant increase over the previous single-day record of 585 reported June 30th. The state has totaled 17,220 cases since the pandemic began, with 13,005 recoveries, leaving a new high of 3,811 active cases.

426 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized, the highest number since the pandemic began. The previous high was 374 on July 1st. 1,741 total Oklahomans have been hospitalized since February. Statewide adult ICU bed availability is currently at 23%. Five new deaths were reported Tuesday, bringing the statewide death toll to 404.

The city of Sand Springs reported three new cases Tuesday, bringing the total to 86. There have been two deaths and 66 recoveries, leaving 18 active cases. In Tulsa County there have been 4,365 total cases with 71 deaths and 3,294 recoveries, leaving 1,000 active cases.

There have been 371,798 negative COVID tests in Oklahoma. The OSDH has launched a drive-through testing location portal at this link.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 2,932,596 cases nationwide with 130,133 deaths. There have been 46,329 cases and 322 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma is 34th in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in total deaths (36th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 11,500,302 cases worldwide with 535,759 deaths. There have been 172,512 new cases reported in the past 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,603,055 and India with 719,665.

What's Happening This Week in Sand Springs (7/5 - 7/12/2020)

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Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

  • 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Free concert - Red Dirt Rangers.

    • POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat
      5323 West 31st Street North
      Tulsa, OK 74127

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO.

    • American Legion Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Saturday

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

    • Keystone Ancient Forest
      160 Ancient Forest Drive

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Sam Harris publishes new book, "The Substance of All Things"

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Sand Springs native Sam Harris has added novelist to his long list of artistic endeavors. The actor, singer, and playwright published “The Substance of All Things” on Wednesday, which is now available in paperback from Amazon.com.

The book’s official description from Harris’s website reads:

“When Theo Dalton is six years old, his hands are irreparably damaged in a horrific car accident that takes his mother’s life. Six years later, during the sweltering summer of 1968 in rural Oklahoma, Theo meets Frank, a Native American outcast, and learns that he has the ability to heal through his disfigured hands.

As he explores the extraordinary, Theo desperately attempts to remain an ordinary boy. But when word of his gift spreads, Theo is shunned by the church for doing “the devil’s work.” He is immediately swept away by his Auntie Li, and into a world which ultimately threatens his life as he saves others’.

Told from Theo’s perspective some fifty years later, it is through his work as a therapist with a broken woman that he musters the courage to relive the summer that haunts him.

The Substance of All Things is the gripping, heart-wrenching, and often humorous tale of mentors and mothers and fathers, love and redemption, prophets and charlatans, miracles and faith.”

Harris is a Sand Springs, Oklahoma native who now resides in Los Angeles, California with his husband and son. Harris had his first big break in the entertainment industry in 1983 when he won the premiere season of Star Search. He signed with Motown Records and produced multiple Top 40 hits, including “Sugar Don’t Bite,” and “Over The Rainbow.”

Since first emerging as a singer, he has expanded his resume with appearances on Broadway, where he received a Tony nomination. He co-created the television series Down To Earth and had a recurring role on the hit sitcom Rules of Engagement.

In 2014 Harris authored Ham - Slices of a Life, a collection of autobiographical essays and stories which he then adapted into an Off-Off-Broadway one-man performance titled HAM: A Musical Memoir.

Sand Springs orders new COVID-19 personal safety kiosks for City facilities

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs has taken more steps as it attempts to stay ahead of the expected surge of COVID-19 impact from the pandemic within the Sand Springs community.

Sand Springs Police placed an order for several COVID-19 personal safety kiosks for use across the City. The kiosks are expected to arrive in mid-July and will be stationed at the Billie A. Hall Public Safety Complex, the Sand Springs Case Community Center, the City of Sand Springs Municipal Building and the City’s Spring Lake Public Works Complex. Each station will feature a “touch free” temperature check, a liquid COVID-19 disinfectant dispenser and a personal safety mask dispenser. There is no cost for the public to utilize the kiosks while visiting any of the four City locations.

Sand Springs Mayor James Spoon commends the action, “We simply want to be proactive and visible within the community as we all work together to combat this widespread health pandemic. We feel these kiosks will be of great value for our citizens and we look forward to placing them in service soon.”

As part of the City’s ongoing efforts to work together, a remote meeting was held today with leadership from the Sand Springs Local Church Network and city officials. During the meeting, strategies were shared about minimizing people’s exposure to COVID-19 while attending places of worship, as everyone is working to find ways to keep church sites open during this difficult time. Sand Springs church leaders described their reduced weekly programs and the intense cleaning regime that they have adopted, as well as use of masks and social distancing measures.

City staff has had success using backpack sprayers (rather than hand wipe cleaning) in the fight to clean larger areas of virus activity. City staff now use electrostatic charged disinfectant solutions in sprayers, which encourage cleaning particles to spread out, providing a more complete coverage on the targeted surface.

Interim City Manager Daniel Bradley stressed the need to spread educational information and best practices to combat COVID-19 as the group pledges to continue monthly joint meetings to monitor the situation in Sand Springs.

The City encourages everyone to continue to maintain social distancing practices; use hand sanitizer routinely and embrace wearing a facial mask while visiting indoor destinations or attending areas with large groups of people.

Sand Springs Fire Chief Mike Wood monitors COVID-19 data for the community and warns citizens to be proactive today, as the discussion about the threat for a large resurgence of COVID19 cases continues to grow.

As of Wednesday, the city of Sand Springs has totaled 72 cases of the virus with 57 recoveries and two deaths, leaving thirteen active cases. There are 3,118 active cases in the state of Oklahoma.

State Question 802 passes, Jadine Nollan and Josh Turley win primaries

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vote.jpg

Nearly 700,000 Oklahoma voters turned out Tuesday to vote in the statewide primaries, and to vote on a State Question for Medicaid expansion. State Question No. 802 narrowly passed with 339,747 votes (50.48%) in favor and 333,311 (49.52%) against.

Republican incumbent Todd Hiett handily won his party’s nomination for Corporation Commissioner with 74.58% of the vote, defeating Harold D. Spradling. Hiett, 52, is a Kellyville native and career politician, serving in the Oklahoma House of Representatives from 1995 till 2007. He ran an unsuccessful campaign for Lieutenant Governor in 2006, but won the Corporation Commissioner race in 2014. In November he will face Libertarian candidate Todd Hagopian of Bixby.

Republican incumbent Jim Inhofe won a landslide victory for the United States Senator nomination with 74.05% of the vote in a four-man field. Inhofe, 85, has held the office since 1994, and previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives and as Mayor of Tulsa. Abby Broyles, 31, won a four-way race for the Democratic Party nomination for United State Senator. Broyles is an attorney and former broadcast journalist. Broyles and Inhofe will take on Libertarian Robert Murphy and Independents Joan Farr and A.D. Nesbit in November.

Kojo Asamoa-Caesar, 34, won the Democratic nomination for Congressional District No. 1, defeating Mark A. Keeter with 63.63% of the vote. Asamoa-Caesar is a former kindergarten teacher, elementary school principal, and interim director of 36 Degrees North. He will take on Republican incumbent Kevin Hern, 58, and Independent candidate Evelyn L. Rogers, 67, in November.

Republican incumbent Markwayne Mullin, 42, easily held off two primary challengers in the race for Congressional District No. 2. He earned 79.91% of the vote to defeat Joseph Silk (12.7%) and Rhonda Hopkins (7.39%). The Muskogee resident was a rancher and businessman before running for office in 2012.

During his first campaign Mullin promised to only serve for three terms, but announced in 2017 that he would run for a fourth term after all, and is now pursuing his fifth. He will take on Democrat Danyell Lanier and Libertarian Richie Castaldo in November.

Republican incumbent Tom Cole, 71, of Norman, won a landslide race for Congressional District No. 4. He earned 76.34% of the vote to defeat James Taylor (15.18%), Trevor Sipes (5.97%), and Gilbert O. Sanders (2.51%). The former college professor has been a career politician since 1988 and assumed his current office in 2002.

Mary Brannon, 68, won a three-way race for the Democratic nomination for Congressional District No. 4. She received 63.85% of the vote to defeat David R. Slemmons (19.42%) and John D. Argo (16.73%). The retired teacher and school counselor previously won the Democratic nomination in 2018 and received 33.0% of the vote against Tom Cole. Brannon and Cole will take on Libertarian Bob White in November.

Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District saw a field of nine Republicans seeking nomination. Terry Neese, 72, and Stephanie Bice, 46, both of Oklahoma City, will advance to a runoff in August. Neese, an entrepreneur, received 36.49% of the vote and Bice, a State Sentor, received 25.41%. Democratic incumbent Kendra Horn, 44, defeated party challenger Tom Guild in a landslide with 85.69% of the vote.

Cody Rogers won the Republican nomination for State Senate District No. 37 with 50.88% of the vote against Chris Emerson. Rogers, 32, owns a Tulsa paving company. He will take on incumbent Democrat Allison Ikley-Freeman in November.

Republican incumbent Jadine Nollan handily won the nomination for House District 66 against challenger Emily DeLozier. Nollan, 61, received 69.12% of the vote and will take on Tulsa Democrat Greg Laird in November.

Tulsa County Court Clerk incumbent Don Newberry won a landslide race in the Republican primary with 75.2% of the vote against Ron Phillips. Newberry, 53, will earn a second term without an additional election as no non-Republican candidates filed.

Dr. Josh Turley won the Republican nomination for Tulsa County Commissioner District No. 2 against Eddy Barclay with 58.04% of the vote. Turley, 47, works for the Tulsa County Sheriffs Office and will take on Democratic incumbent Karen Keith in November.

Other Results:

  • State Senate District No. 1 - Republican: Michael Bergstrom 4980 (64.68%), James Fuser 2720 (35.32%).

  • State Senate District No. 3 - Republican: Blake Cowboy Stephens 4410 (60.43%), Wayne Shaw 2888 (39.57%).

  • State Senate District No. 5 - Republican: George H. Burns 2343 (38.28%), Justin Jackson 2071 (33.84%), Jimmy Westbrook 1706 (27.88%).

  • State Senate District No. 5 - Democrat: Randy Coleman 3893 (76.6%), Bevon Rogers 1189 (23.4%).

  • State Senate District No. 7 - Republican: Larry Boggs 3348 (46.42%), Warren Hamilton 3045 (42.22%), Kevin Woody 819 (11.36%).

  • State Senate District No. 7 - Democrat: Jerry L. Donathan 5125 (64.73%), Cathy Zukosky Thornton 2792 (35.27%).

  • State Senate District No. 13 - Republican: Greg McCortney 5146 (74.5%), Carisa Roberson 1761 (25.5%).

  • State Senate District No. 15 - Democrat: Alex Scott 5070 (61.71%), Matt Hecox 3218 (38.83%).

  • State Senate District No. 17 - Republican: Shane David Jett 4577 (44.18%), Ron Sharp 3453 (33.33%), Brandon Baumgarten 2331 (22.5%).

  • State Senate District No. 19 - Republican: Roland Pederson 6680 (54.44%), David M. Mason 5591 (45.56%).

  • State Senate District No. 28 - Republican: Zack Taylor 5679 (59.32%), Mike Haines 3197 (33.39%), Christian Ford 698 (7.29%).

  • State Senate District No. 35 - Republican: Kyden Creekpaum 3348 (43.8%), Cheryl Baber 2600 (34.02%), Linda Morrissey 1695 (22.18%).

  • State Senate District No. 35 - Democrat: Jo Anna Dossett 4981 (57.2%), Carly Hotvedt 2688 (30.87%), Stan Allen Young 1039 (11.93%).

  • State Senate District No. 43 - Republican: Paul Scott 5683 (49.9%), Jessica Garvin (39.25%), Kaity Keith 1235 (10.84%).

  • State Representative District No. 1 - Republican: Eddy Dempsey 1784 (60.31%), Eric Ensley 1174 (39.69%).

  • State Representative District No. 3 - Republican: Rick West 1852 (53.96%), Lundy Kiger 1580 (46.04%).

  • State Representative District No. 11 - Republican: Wendi Stearman 3096 (55.49%), Derrel Fincher 2483 (44.51%).

  • State Representative District No. 12 - Republican: Kevin McDugle 2514 (52.94%), Justin Dine 2235 (47.06%).

  • State Representative District No. 14 - Republican: Chris Sneed 1952 (60.32%), George Faught 1284 (39.68%).

  • State Representative District No. 15 - Republican: Randy Randleman 2587 (73.27%), Angie Brinlee 944 (26.73%).

  • State Representative District No. 17 - Republican: Jim Grego 2100 (61.87%), Shannon Rowell 1294 (38.13%).

  • State Representative District No. 18 - Republican: David Smith 1733 (61.56%), Brenda Angel 659 (23.41%), Brecken Wagner 423 (15.03%).

  • State Representative District No. 20 - Republican: Sherrie Conley 2748 (56.95%), Steve Herburger 2077 (43.05%).

  • State Representative District No. 24 - Republican: Logan J. Phillips 1401 (52.89%), John Andy Baca 533 (20.12%), Sam Stampler 418 (15.78%), Elijah Harelson 297 (11.21%).

  • State Representative District No. 25 - Republican: Ronny Johns 2035 (68.24%), Gary Rhynes 947 (31.76%).

  • State Representative District No. 28 - Republican: Danny Williams 1845 (54.6%), Jerri Parker 1534 (45.4%).

  • State Representative District No. 30 - Republican: Mark Lawson 3243 (76.13%), Jake Rowland 686 (16.1%), Kate Stromlund 331 (7.77%).

  • State Representative District No. 31 - Republican: Garry Mize 4090 (66.78%), Karmin Grider 2035 (33.22%).

  • State Representative District No. 33 - Republican: John Talley 2455 (53.92%), Brice Nathaniel Chaffin 2098 (46.08%).

  • State Representative District No. 40 - Republican: Chad Caldwell 2412 (56.62%), Taylor Venus 1848 (43.38%).

  • State Representative District No. 42 - Republican: Cynthia Cindy Roe 2921 (61.46%), Nicole Stevens 1818 (38.36%).

  • State Representative District No. 52 - Republican: Gerrid Kendrix 2319 (64.13%), Scot Simco 1297 (35.87%).

  • State Representative District No. 56 - Republican: Dick Lowe 1803 (53.49%), Randy Talley 1568 (46.51%).

  • State Representative District No. 59 - Republican: Mike Dobrinski 4376 (71.73%), Adam N. Masters 1725 (28.27%).

  • State Representative District No. 61 - Republican: Kenton Patzkowsky 2943 (55.77%), Kenny Bob Tapp 2334 (44.23%).

  • State Representative District No. 62 - Republican: Daniel Pae 1243 (74.61%), Robert Johns 423 (25.39%).

  • State Representative District No. 69 - Republican: Sheila Dills 3594 (61.8%), Angela Strohm 2222 (38.2%).

  • State Representative District No. 70 - Republican: Carol M. Bush 3329 (68.08%), Taylor Woodrum 1561 (31.92%).

  • State Representative District No. 71 - Republican: Mike Masters 1301 (48.87%), Beverly A. Atteberry 1184 (44.48%), David Matthew Hullum 177 (6.65%).

  • State Representative District No. 72 - Democrat: Monroe Nichols 1653 (68.96%), Maria Veliz Barnes 744 (31.04%).

  • State Representative District No. 74 - Republican: Mark Vancuren 4009 (85.39%), Brad Peixotto 686 (14.61%).

  • State Representative District No. 79 - Republican: Clay Iiams 1491 (46.45%), Margie Alfonso 924 (28.79%), Maria Mercedes Seidler 795 (24.77%).

  • State Representative District No. 83 - Republican: Eric Roberts 3580 (80.32%), Robert McMaster 877 (19.68%).

  • State Representative District No. 88 - Democrat: Mauree Turner 3036 (52.15%), Jason Dunnington 2786 (47.85%).

  • State Representative District No. 89 - Democrat: Jose Cruz 699 (74.36%), Chris Bryant 123 (13.09%), Cristian Zapata 118 (12.55).

  • State Representative District No. 91 - Republican: Chris Kannady 3802 (79.61%), Bruce Fleming 974 (20.39%).

  • State Representative District No. 94 - Republican: Lauren Rodebush 1201 (58.27%), Franklin Paul Cromack 860 (41.73%).

  • State Representative District No. 95 - Republican: Max Wolfley 1370 (56.96%), Daren Ward 1035 (43.04%).

  • State Representative District No. 96 - Republican: Preston Stinson 2343 (35.44%), Margaret Best 2057 (31.11%), Ken Warner 1843 (27.88%), Chris DeCloud 368 (5.57%).

  • State Representative District No. 99 - Democrat: Ajay Pittman 2833 (51.95%), Susan Porter 2620 (48.05%).

  • State Representative District No. 100 - Republican: Marlyn Stark 2363 (59.1%), Cobi J. Ceron 1635 (40.9%).

POSTOAK announces Farm to Table Wine Dinner as part of Summer Shindigs at the Lodge

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2017 POSTOAK Wine &amp; Jazz Festival.

2017 POSTOAK Wine & Jazz Festival.

OSAGE CO., OKLAHOMA, 6/25/2020 – What do musicians, ranchers, farmers and health instructors all have in common?  A place to meet this summer and provide a bit of relaxation, good food and entertainment to the good people of Tulsa and “Green Country”. 

POSTOAK Lodge Chef Damien Jacob is working with Grassroots Ranch owners Daniel & Maria Rose, and Bob Wickizer of Pecan Creek Winery to offer POSTOAK Lodge’s first Farm to Table Wine Dinner, July 11, 6:30 p.m. The four-course meal with wine pairings is limited to 30 guests and will be served in the Lodge’s most spacious banquet room to ensure physical spacing. Chef Damien has curated a Prime Pork Chop dinner from Grassroots Ranch. It will be served with roasted red pepper polenta, sweet corn, black-eyed pea and green bean succotash. Diners will start with a small bite lamb “gyro’, enjoy a grilled pear salad and wrap up with smoked honey buttermilk ice cream atop berries and sweet oat crumble. 

Chef Damien said “we are excited to offer this true farm to table meal. In addition to what Grassroots Ranch is providing we are also sourcing the dinner from Abundant Microgreens, Crooked Shed Homestead, Farrell Family Bread, Gibson Gardens, Lomah Dairy, Swan Bros. Dairy, Inc. and Wagon Creek Creamery. The honey from Okie Bee Farms is harvested here on our property. Pecan Creek Winery is passionate about making great wines from locally-source grapes, thus, the whole menu will be Oklahoma sourced.”

The July 11 Farm to Table Wine dinner is $65 per person, plus gratuity and taxes. Reservations are required and can be purchased through EventBrite at  https://bit.ly/3et55fn or by calling POSTOAK at 918-425-2112.

The dinner is part of POSTOAK’s “Summer Shindigs at the Lodge”. Trisha Kerkstra, general manager of POSTOAK, said “Like others in the hospitality industry, we’ve been hard hit by the pandemic, and learned how it has also affected musicians, farmers and even yoga instructors. There is no better way to support one another than by offering our property – known for its wide-open spaces- as a venue to carefully create some opportunities for entertainment and relaxation.”

Other “Summer Shindigs at the Lodge” events:

The “Sounds of Summer” wraps up with Jonny Miller on July 2 and the Red Dirt Rangers (RDR) July 9. There is no cost to attend, but donations are encouraged. The Red Dirt Rangers are donating a portion of the proceeds to the Red Dirt Relief Fund, which has granted $136,500 to 46 Oklahoma music professionals since mid-March.  

“Body, Mind & Soul Workshops” include “Rise & Shine Zumba” on July 25 with Dakota Dunn and “Meditation at the Lodge” with Nicole Pearl on August 15. Reservations required with payment in advance 72 hours via Venmo to the instructors for these workshops.

Just minutes from downtown Tulsa, POSTOAK is located around the bend from Gilcrease Museum. POSTOAK boasts 60 guest rooms and ample space for small group gatherings. Book a room and enjoy fishing, swimming, hiking, and even zip-lining.  For more information, call 918.425.2112 or visit  www.postoaklodge.com

Oklahoma reports new single-day record increase in COVID-19 cases

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For the second time in the past week, Oklahoma has set a new state record for largest single-day increase in COVID-19 cases. The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) reported 585 new cases Tuesday, an increase of over 100 from the previous single-day record of 482, set last Wednesday. Total recoveries have surpassed 10,000, but active cases are at an all-time high of 3,285.

There have been two additional deaths linked to the virus, bringing the statewide death total to 387. 1,520 Oklahomans have been hospitalized since the pandemic began and 315 are currently hospitalized.

The OSDH has launched a new testing site dashboard, which includes an interactive map and updated site contact information. They are requesting that individuals call test sites to make an appointment and confirm hours of operation before visiting. There have been 327,840 negative tests since the pandemic began.

Sand Springs currently has twelve active cases of the virus. There have been 70 total cases in the city with two deaths and 56 recoveries. Nearby testing sites include Expo Square and the University of Oklahoma Schusterman Center in Tulsa, and the Creek County Health Department in Sapulpa. In Tulsa County there are 1,032 active cases.

“I believe Oklahomans have handled COVID-19 better than any other state,” said Governor Kevin Stitt in a Tuesday press conference. He also requested that young people wear masks and be careful when interacting with older, more vulnerable family members during the Independence Day weekend celebrations. He also made it clear that the State will not be mandating masks in public. “We believe in freedoms. I will not mandate that in the state of Oklahoma.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 2,581,229 cumulative cases nationwide with 126,739 deaths. There have been 35,664 new cases and 370 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma ranks 36th in total cases (41st per capita) and 34th in deaths (36th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 10,185,374 cumulative cases worldwide with 503,862 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,344,143, Russia 647,849, and India with 566,840.

Hofmeister’s Student Advisory Council shares thoughts on distance learning, systemic racism

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Paeton Watkins (left) and Joy Hofmeister (right).

OKLAHOMA CITY (June 30, 2020) – In a Monday meeting of State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister with her Student Advisory Council, high school students voiced their concerns about learning amid a global pandemic and how racism impacts the classroom experience. The group, which met through Zoom, consisted of spring 2020 graduates and members of the Class of 2021.

Mariah Martin (left) and Joy Hofmeister (right).

This is the fifth consecutive year Hofmeister has convened a student group to assist her and the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) in matters of policy.

Students said the abrupt transition to distance learning this past spring was confusing for many, with the closure of school buildings causing some students to lose focus and drive. Others said they were worried they might miss skills needed for college and sensed their teachers were unprepared to use technology for virtual instruction.

Paeton Watkins of Stillwater High School commended her school for having worked to give seniors flexibility that, in turn, eased the transition to a new style of learning.

“Normally, we’re used to being able to pick what happens in our lives, especially when it comes to school. We weren’t able to do that [with the pandemic],” she said. “My district battled that by giving seniors choices. I think that might be a good thing to look into for upcoming semesters – how can we give students a little bit more of that control back?”

Hofmeister said addressing internet connectivity is critical as schools prepare for the uncertainties of next school year.

“Connectivity is key, and that is our biggest hurdle. We are determined that internet service for all be a basic utility of life. Just like water and electricity, all students should have internet at home,” she said.

Hofmeister noted that $145 million in federal relief funding is available for districts to use on connectivity and devices to close the digital divide, and in the event of a district’s move to virtual instruction. In addition, the state is offering all districts an individualized e-learning tool, Exact Path, at no cost through June 30, 2021.

Trakel “Kel” Pinkston (left) and Joy Hofmeister (right).

Prompted by current events and nationwide protests, students also discussed their experiences with racial and ethnic identity in schools. Many suggested a new approach to teaching diversity and how to discuss such matters.

“Everyone in my class looked like me, and I wasn’t aware of the struggles other people faced. I couldn’t sympathize with it because I didn’t understand it,” said Mariah Martin of Ringling, who suggested a diversity course as a new high school requirement. “We’re really lacking the ability to have the hard conversations. We have financial literacy. How can we have ‘communication literacy?’”

Trakel “Kel” Pinkston of Putnam City High School pointed out the necessity of a clear-eyed view with such issues: “It’s like putting a Band-Aid on an open wound and not expecting bad results. We have to go back and face our problems. They won’t go away on their own.”

Students also talked about inequity of education resources and suggested an enhanced approach to expose different perspectives of historic events and discussions that include cultural context.

"We need a better curriculum to teach people the mistakes of our past and how we can do better going forward,” said Natalie Rojo of Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy, who also stressed the importance of teaching students how to respect others.

Natalie Rojo.

Hofmeister said that the teaching of subjects like the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre has evolved over the years. She added that curriculum resources such as the OSDE’s newly released Oklahoma Social Studies Curriculum Frameworks and curriculum developed by the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Centennial Commission are equipping schools to more effectively teach students about historical events and the lingering impact of systemic racism.

“We are not bystanders,” Hofmeister said. “There’s power in youth, and we must change things.“

The students, recommended by educators and counselors in their respective districts, represent rural, urban and suburban schools of all sizes across Oklahoma. Twenty-four are returning members who have served on the council in previous years.

This year’s Student Advisory Council also met Feb. 21 at the State Capitol. For a list of members on the council and their home schools, click here.

Election Day is tomorrow, here's what you need to know

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Oklahomans will take to the polls Tuesday for the statewide primaries. The state’s approximately 2000 polling places will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The State Election Board has worked with the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center to develop safety protocols for all polling places and county election boards. Poll workers at every location have been supplied with personal protective equipment including hand sanitizer, gloves, masks, and disinfectant.

Voters are asked to be patient and follow signage and procedures. While it is not required, the State Election Board strongly recommends that voters wear a mask to protect themselves and those around them.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some polling places may have changed. Voters are strongly encouraged to verify their voting location before heading the polls. Lines at the polls are typically longest before work, during the lunch hour, and after work.

Oklahoma law requires every voter who votes in person to show proof of identity before receiving a ballot. Voters may provide a valid photo ID issued by the federal, state, or tribal government, or the free voter identification card issued to every voter by their County Election Board. They may also sign an affidavit and vote with a provisional ballot.

Oklahoma has closed primaries, however the Democratic Party has elected to open its elections to Independents. Republicans and Libertarian primaries remain closed.

All voters will get to cast a ballot on State Question No. 802. Here is the full text of the measure:

Medicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance program for qualifying low-income persons. This measure would add a provision to the Oklahoma Constitution requiring the State to expand Medicaid coverage. The expanded coverage would include certain persons over 18 and under 65 who are not already covered and whose annual income, as calculated under federal law, is at or below 133% of the federal poverty line. The federal poverty line changes annually, but for example if this measure were in effect in 2019, the measure generally would have covered a single adult making less than $17,236 annually and adults in a family of four making less than $35,535 annually. Under this measure, the State cannot create additional restrictions that make it more difficult to qualify for expanded Medicaid coverage than it is to qualify for the Medicaid program currently in place. The Medicaid program is funded jointly by the federal government and the State. This measure would require the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) to try to maximize federal funding for Medicaid expansion in Oklahoma. If the measure is approved, OHCA has 90 days to submit all documents necessary to obtain federal approval for implementing Medicaid expansion by July 1, 2021. SHALL THE PROPOSAL BE APPROVED?

Republicans in Sand Springs will vote for their candidate for the following offices:

For Corporation Commissioner: Harold D. Spradling vs. Todd Hiett.
For United States Senator: Neil Mavis vs. Jim Inhofe vs. John Tompkins vs. JJ Stitt.
For State Senator District 37: Chris Emerson vs. Cody Rogers.
For State Representative District 66: Emily Delozier vs. Jadine Nollan.
For County Court Clerk: Don Newberry vs. Ron Phillips.
For County Commissioner District No. 2: Eddy Barclay vs. Josh Turley.

Democrats in Sand Springs will vote for their candidate for the following offices:

For United States Senator: Elysabeth Britt vs. Abby Broyles vs. Sheila Bilyeu vs. R.O. Joe Cassity, Jr.
For United State Representative District No. 1: Mark A. Keeter vs. Kojo Asamoa-Casesar.

What's Happening This Week in Sand Springs (6/28 - 7/5/2020)

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Monday

  • Sand Springs Boys Basketball Camp.
    9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Grades 2-6.
    1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Grades 7-9.

    • See attached flyer for more info.

    • Ed Dubie Field House
      600 North Adams Road

  • 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Girls Basketball Camp.

    • See attached flyer for more info.

    • Central Ninth Grade Center
      14 West 4th Street

  • 6:30 p.m. Ladies Evening on the Lawn.

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

Tuesday

  • 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Statewide Primary Election Day.

  • Sand Springs Boys Basketball Camp.
    9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Grades 2-6.
    1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Grades 7-9.

    • See attached flyer for more info.

    • Ed Dubie Field House
      600 North Adams Road

  • 9:30 a.m. Junior High Softball tryouts.

    • See attached flyer for more information.

    • Sandite Softball Complex
      408 West 55th Street

  • 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Girls Basketball Camp.

    • See attached flyer for more info.

    • Central Ninth Grade Center
      14 West 4th Street

Wednesday

  • Sand Springs Boys Basketball Camp.
    9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Grades 2-6.
    1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Grades 7-9.

    • See attached flyer for more info.

    • Ed Dubie Field House
      600 North Adams Road

  • 9:30 a.m. Junior High Softball tryouts.

    • See attached flyer for more information.

    • Sandite Softball Complex
      408 West 55th Street

  • 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sand Springs Girls Basketball Camp.

    • See attached flyer for more info.

    • Central Ninth Grade Center
      14 West 4th Street

Thursday

  • 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Free concert - Jonny Miller.

    • POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat
      5323 West 31st Street North
      Tulsa, OK 74127

  • 6:00 p.m. BINGO.

    • American Legion Post 17
      500 North Main Street

Friday

  • Sertoma Fireworks Show - CANCELED.

  • 7:00 p.m. Independence Day Boat Parade.

    • Pier 51 Marina
      1926 South Highway 151

Saturday

  • Independence Day.

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

  • Free for nonprofit/free/charitable events.

  • Free for Sandite Pride Partners.

Oklahoma reports record single-day increase in COVID-19 cases

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For the third time in the past week, Oklahoma has hit a new record for single-day increase in COVID-19 cases. The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 482 new cases Wednesday, bringing the statewide total to 11,510. There have been 8,144 recoveries and 372 deaths, leaving 2,994 active cases. 195 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized, 68 are in the intensive care unit, and 1,319 Oklahomans have been hospitalized since the pandemic began.

In Sand Springs there have been 63 total cases with 2 deaths and 44 recoveries, leaving 17 active cases. In Tulsa County there have been 2,742 cases with 66 deaths and 1,619 recoveries, leaving 1,057 active cases.

COVID-19 testing sites are open in multiple cities in Oklahoma as a result of a cross-county, city and state health system partnership. Visit this page for updated dates and locations. The State has processed 286,768 negative tests so far.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 2,336,615 cases nationwide with 121,117 deaths. There have been 34,313 new cases and 784 deaths in the past 24 hours.

The World Health Organization is reporting 9,129,146 cases worldwide with 473,797 deaths. There have been 133,611 new cases reported in the past 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,106,470, Russia with 606,881, and India with 456,183.


POSTOAK Lodge to host "Summer Shindigs" including music, yoga, and more

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2017 Wine and Jazz Festival at POSTOAK Lodge.

POSTOAK Lodge has pulled out all the stops and swung their front gates open wide to welcome in a summer of celebration with their Summer Shindigs! Spring may have had us flattening a curve and tightening our belts - but we did it - together! Come on out for some relaxing live music on Thursday nights, some rejuvenating body and soul workshops on Saturdays, or dinner and room packages. What better place for all three than out at POSTOAK Lodge on 1,000 acres of beautiful vistas?

Summer Shindigs at the Lodge will resume June 25th with the Sounds of Summer Thursdays featuring Denise Hoey and Mike Wilson. From 5:30 to 7:30 it's a BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket - or lawn chair) and enjoy live music in the shade under an Oklahoma sky. Willow Cafe will be open for beverages, snacks and sandwiches, but the music is FREE!  Trisha Kerkstra, general manager of POSTOAK, said “We'll be taking care of our musicians the old-fashioned way and will be passing the hat for donations to support the performers each Thursday. They have been hit as hard as our industry; thus, it is a way we can lighten the load and help one another by giving them a performance outlet and inviting folks out to the Lodge”.

June 27, 2020, kicks off the Body, Mind, & Soul Series on selected Saturdays with Yoga in the Oaks. It might be Zumba one week or Yoga the next, but the body and soul workshops will be inexpensive opportunities to try something new in a spacious and beautiful setting. 

So, come on out to POSTOAK Lodge for some Summer Shindigs filled with social distancing fun! Just minutes from downtown Tulsa, enjoy urban amenities amidst rural extravagances. We are unique, and uniquely safe as Osage County, Oklahoma has cornered the market on social distancing fun!

For more information, call 918.425.2112 or visit  www.postoaklodge.com

Work underway at new Sand Springs park

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Sand Springs Parks staff have been hard at work on a new park in the RiverWest Shopping Center. Zackery Park will be named for the Zachery family who lived in the area when it was still residential, and in particular for Bessie Zackery, who was a teacher in Sand Springs.

Bessie Zackery was class valedictorian at the Sand Springs Booker T. Washington High School in 1934, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Langston University. She returned to Sand Springs and taught Art and Elementary Education at Booker T. Washington. Zackery reportedly spent summers at Colorado State Teachers College, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa taking graduate courses to keep Washington on the cutting edge. Zackery earned a Master’s of Teaching Arts from TU in 1959.

After 28 years at Washington, Zackery transferred to Limestone Elementary for the remainder of her career. She was named the Sand Springs Education Association 1978 Teacher of the Year, the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association 1981 Outstanding Alumnus, and the 1996 Sand Springs Hometown Hero. The Sand Springs Retired Educators Association and Oklahoma Retired Educators Association named her a Very Important Member, and in 1999 she was awarded the Ageless Hero Award by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.

Zackery Park is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Booker T. Washington Avenue. The pedestrian sidewalk within the area will also be named “Rambler Way” in honor of the Washington High School mascot.

There is currently a large detention pond adjacent to the park, and staff recently installed a fountain in the middle that will soon be activated. There will also be floating LED lights around the fountain. A steel trellis was recently installed, along with a seat wall made from brick pavers that were salvaged from the old Booker T. Washington High School. There will also be a concrete plaza, informational signage, and decorative plants.

The RiverWest area is part of a revitalization effort by the City and was formerly one of the oldest and poorest residential neighborhoods in Sand Springs. The primarily African American district was demolished in the late 2000s, with the former Booker T. Washington High School coming down in 2010. Centennial Baptist Church is the last remnant of the historic community.

Since then, the district has added a new hotel, a minor emergency clinic, a TTCU branch, restaurants, a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a Starbucks. There is also a small strip center being constructed, and only a few plots of land are still available.

The community has already been memorialized in the naming of its two arterial streets. Booker T. Washington Avenue was named for the high school, while Alexander Boulevard was named for Albert Alexander. Alexander reportedly immigrated to Sand Springs following the 1921 massacre of black citizens in Tulsa. His obituary reads that Alexander was “the unofficial mayor of the black section of segregated Sand Springs because of the respect that both sides of the railroad tracks had for him.”

The Sand Springs Parks Department has several other projects underway around the city. The disc golf course in Case Community Park is getting a redesign by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins. The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course is getting a major clubhouse remodel. There is a visitors’ center being constructed at the Keystone Ancient Forest, and an observation tower will be installed in the near future. New sidewalks are being poured in Case Community Park, and the parking lot at the park’s largest playground is being improved.

Sand Springs City Council denies Specific Use Permit for controversial marijuana growing facility

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Sand Springs Police Chief Mike Carter presents the 2020 Policing Plan to City Council.

The Sand Springs City Council denied a Specific Use Permit for a controversial proposed medical marijuana growing and processing facility at a Monday evening meeting at the Case Community Center. Several Sand Springs residents turned out to speak against the facility, and some spoke in favor of it.

The facility would have been located at 801 Long Street in the Hall’s Garden subdivision west of Walmart. The building formerly housed a daycare, and is owned by the Hacker Corporation. Most of the neighborhood around the building is residential, and located outside of City limits in Tulsa County.

The building sits at the corner of Long Street and Broad Street, and Broad Street has several differently-zoned properties. Two properties, including the former daycare, are zoned Commercial. Several lots are zoned Heavy Industrial, there are two churches, and one residential home. The two blocks west of Broad Street are all residential.

Barbara Shockley, who lives across the street from the building and who has lived in the neighborhood for more than 50 years, was concerned about traffic, crime, and deteriorating property values. “This is a neighborhood. A place like this should be in an industrial area.” Earl Shockley also expressed concerns about property value.

Mark Massey, who owns a house on Broad Street that is currently zoned for commercial use, was also opposed, as was Reverend Cliff Hewitt, representing Free Holiness Church. Hewitt found it disrespectful to open a marijuana facility three doors down from a church, and feared that it would bring criminals to the neighborhood who would break into his church and steal equipment to fund their marijuana addiction.

John Fothergill spoke on behalf of the Hacker family. Fothergill previously worked as Chief Deputy under County Commissioner Karen Keith, and said that the Hackers previously allowed the County to place multiple dumpsters on their land to help clean up the neighborhood. He pointed out that the facility would likely have private security, making the neighborhood safer, not more dangerous, and that it would bring jobs to the community.

Attorneys for the Hacker Corporation addressed several concerns of the neighbors. According to the Stephanie Sinclair, there would be less traffic at the facility than it had while it was a daycare, and there would be no signage identifying it as a grow operation. There would also be no marijuana smell due to the instillation of carbon scrubbers. They also addressed concerns of property value, pointing to their next-door neighbor, the Green Barn resale facility, which is frequently overgrown and has suffered multiple fires.

Keri Fothergill, the current Chief Deputy to Karen Keith, responded to their comments on Green Barn by informing Council that the County is planning to clean up the Green Barn property next fiscal year.

Vice Mayor Patty Dixon said she visited every grow operation in Sand Springs Monday and couldn’t smell marijuana at any of them, and said that many weren’t even recognizable as marijuana facilities. However, she said she saw this as a unique situation due to its proximity to a neighborhood.

Ultimately, the Council voted 6-1 to deny the permit, with Councilman Brian Jackson casting the lone vote in favor. The Hacker Corporation never actually had a lessee lined up for the property, but were attempting to be proactive in recruiting one. The Hackers always have the option to reapply at a later date and re-argue their case.

Two other marijuana businesses had their permits approved.

Council unanimously approved a Specific Use Permit for a medical marijuana processing facility at 3417 South 113th West Avenue. Patricia Goins already operates The Herbin Joint dispensary at that location. She also spoke on behalf of the Hacker Corporation in favor of their attempt to open a grow facility.

Council unanimously approved a Specific Use Permit for a medical marijuana dispensary at 3 East 41st Street. The location is a storefront formerly occupied by Plum Crazy Nutrition, next door to Cheezie’s Pizza. Applicants are Ryan Reece and Patrick Leonard, on behalf of OHG, LLC.

In other news:

Council unanimously voted to approve a resolution concerning a Tax Increment Finance District. Council previously passed a TIF in partnership with Webco Industries for a property adjacent to their existing Star Center. Webco purchased 48 acres from the City of Sand Springs in January, and intends to construct a leadership campus on the former site of the Rader Juvenile Detention Center. A small portion of the land was inadvertently left off of the initial resolution. Resolution No. 20-35 declares the Council’s intent to consider approval of an amendment, and authorizes a reconvening of the Review Committee to assess the issue.

Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the refinancing and refunding of $25,645,000 in outstanding bonds to attain a lower interest rate and save approximately $267,000 per year. That money will be invested in water and wastewater capital projects.

Council held a public hearing in regard to the 2020 Community Policing Plan, and Chief Mike Carter addressed several department policies that have been enacted to reduce negative community impact and use of force. This is the fifth year that the department has created a Policing Plan, and the public is invited to reach out with suggestions.

Council unanimously approved a resolution for final acceptance of the City Hall Remodel Project. Total construction cost for the project was $1,000,476.63.

Council unanimously approved a contract with the Metropolitan Tulsa Transit Authority for July 1st, 2020 through June 30th, 2021 at a cost not to exceed $57,020.

Council unanimously approved final acceptance of a contract with Crossland Construction regarding the Water Treatment Plant Wall Beautification Project. Council originally awarded the contract in the amount of $1,113,807.60 but a change order decreased the contract by $26,8884.80.

Council unanimously approved a Professional Service Agreement with Craig and Keithline, Inc. for planning the Shops at Sheffield Crossing commercial development. The city-owned development currently holds a recently-opened Chick-Fil-A, but the City hopes to attract a large hardware/lumber store and other shops/restaurants. The project will focus on construction plans for water/sanitary sewer, entryway construction and interior roadway extension. Council approved up to $92,526.00 for conceptional plans and report for Phase One of the project.

Council unanimously approved a Professional Service Agreement with Keithline Engineering Group for preliminary design of the 41st Street Surface Improvement Project. The City plans on applying for Surface Transportation Program (STP) Urbanized Area funds, and wants to have plans for the project ready for the grant application. The City plans to do an asphalt overlay of 41st Street from 129th West Avenue to 69th West Avenue, with a center rumble strip and improvements to access ramps.

Council unanimously approved a preliminary plan to place a commemorative sign on City-owned property recognizing Sand Springs as the home of Colonel William R. Pogue. The exact design and location of the sign have not yet been determined. Pogue graduated from Sand Springs High School in 1947 and was a member of the NASA Apollo missions, piloting Skylab 4.

Council approved several Board and Committee appointments:

  • Mike Burdge, Nancy Riley, and Patty Dixon were appointed to serve one-year terms on the Council Appointment Committee.

  • Burdge, Dixon, and Jim Spoon were appointed to serve one-year terms on the Council Finance and Development Committee.

  • Dixon, Riley, and Brian Jackson were appointed to serve one-year terms on the Council Legislative Committee.

  • Spoon, Beau Wilson, and Phil Nollan were appointed to serve one-year terms on the Council Public Works Advisory Committee.

  • Burdge was appointed to a one-year term on the Indian Nations Council on Government (INCOG) Board of Directors. Spoon was appointed to serve as alternate.

  • Spoon was appointed to a one-year term in the INCOG General Assembly. The City Manager was appointed as an alternate. The City of Sand Springs currently does not have a City Manager, but former Assistant City Manager Daniel Bradley is serving in an interim role until one is hired.

  • Burdge was appointed to a one-year term on the INCOG Legislative Consortium, and Spoon was appointed as an alternate.

  • Derek Campbell was appointed to a one-year term in the INCOG Tulsa Metropolitan Area Transportation Policy Committee, and T.J. Davis was appointed as an alternate.

  • Cathy Burdge was appointed to a three-year term on the Parks Advisory Board. There is currently another opening on the Board. Sand Springs residents interested in serving on the board should fill out this form and submit it to the city at the following address:

    • City of Sand Springs
      P.O. Box 338
      100 East Broadway Street
      Sand Springs, OK 74063

  • Mike King was appointed to a two-year term as Municipal Judge.

  • R. Jay McAtee was appointed to a two-year term as Assistant Municipal Judge.

  • Tom Askew was appointed to a two-year term as Assistant Municipal Judge.

Council unanimously approved a $36,150.03 contract with A-Max Sign for design, construction, and installation of signage for the River West commercial development at its Highway 97 entrance.

Council unanimously approved an ordinance requiring Sand Springs businesses operating out of a physical location to register with the City. Police Chief Mike Carter called for the ordinance after having difficulties in establishing contact with businesses during the Great Flood of 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic this spring. The ordinance will require businesses to register contact information with the City annually, and will not charge a licensing fee.

Council unanimously approved a resolution concerning the hiring process for the new City Manager. An application deadline has been set for August 17, 2020. Council aims to have a unanimous selection by October 31, 2020. A proposed advertisement reads as follows:

  • City of Sand Springs, Oklahoma (population 20,000) is accepting applications for the position of City Manager. Staff includes approximately 200 full time employees, 2 bargaining units, and a $26.5M budget. Seeking applicants with proven record of success in Municipal Administration. Ideal candidate will have college degree, preferably Master’s, in Public Administration, Business Administration, or related discipline, and minimum 7-10 years progressive management experience in municipal government. Previous experience in re-development of urban or blighted areas, or economic development initiatives a plus. Position reports directly to the City Council and is accountable for the effective management of all City departments. Candidates must have demonstrated effective leadership skills, high ethical standards, strong written and verbal communication skills, and be able to relate to diverse constituencies. We offer an attractive compensation package, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Those with serious interest should submit a cover letter, resume with salary history, and three business references on or before August 17, 2020, to Amy Fairchild, Human Resources, City of Sand Springs, P. O. Box 338, Sand Springs, OK 74063; e-mail ajfairc@sandspringsok.org; fax to (918) 246-2507. Any interest will be held in confidence at the discretion of the applicant.

Following the City Council meeting, the Municipal Authority meeting convened.

Trustees unanimously approved an agreement with the Metropolitan Environmental Trust for operating the Sand Springs Recycling Program for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 in the amount of $34,382.00.

Trustees unanimously approved an agreement for engineering services with Tetra Tech for operation and maintenance of the Skiatook Raw Water Conveyance System for Fiscal Year 2021 in the amount of $312,600.00 The Sand Springs Municipal Authority’s share is $187,560.00 and Sapulpa will cover the remainder.

Trustees unanimously approved a $40,000 contract renewal with Talley Golf to provide Golf Management Services at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge for Fiscal Year 2021. The contract additionally includes 5% of gross revenue of greens fees and carts, all range revenues, and an incentive fee of 15% of the net savings of the total budgeted expenditures.

ODOT reminds candidates that campaign signs don’t belong along highways

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Candidates are reminded that it is illegal to place signs inside state rights-of-way, which includes the area along highways or on bridges. In this photo from 2018, ODOT maintenance workers pause mowing operations to remove a large campaign sign from along the highway.

As the 2020 election season shifts into high gear approaching the summer, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation is reminding political candidates and volunteers to not jeopardize safety and to do their part in saving taxpayer money and keeping Oklahoma’s highways and interstates free of unsightly litter.

Placing yard signs to help promote candidates may be a long-standing tradition in Oklahoma politics, but the areas along highways or on bridges are off-limits. State law actually prohibits such signs from being placed in state rights-of-way due to safety concerns. In addition to potentially blocking drivers’ views at intersections or ramps, illegal sign placement endangers volunteers who try to post them along high-speed roadways or on bridges. Generally, the public right-of-way includes the area of grass between a highway and the nearest fence.

The best strategy for safe and legal politicking is for candidates to place signs on private property with the landowner’s permission. Inside city limits, candidates should check local ordinances for questions regarding municipal streets and rights-of-way. However, even within city limits, signs are prohibited on state-maintained highways, overpasses and bridges.

When signs are illegally placed, ODOT crews spend time away from other highway maintenance operations to pull them out of the ground, which can be time-consuming and hazardous. Removal of litter, including illegal signs, also delays highway mowing since the signs and posts could potentially damage state equipment.

Each year, nearly $6 million is spent by the department to pick up trash along Oklahoma highways, including illegally placed signs. This money comes out of ODOT’s maintenance budget, the same source of funds for patching potholes, repairing guardrail, mowing and clearing snow and ice. This expense is in addition to the untold amounts of time and money volunteer groups and local governments spend removing litter.

Oklahoma surpasses 10,000 cases of COVID-19, Sand Springs with 14 active cases

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The number of cumulative COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 10,733 with 7,648 recoveries and 369 deaths, leaving 2,716 active cases statewide. In Sand Springs there have been 58 total cases with 42 recoveries and two deaths, leaving fourteen active cases. Tulsa County has totaled 2,392 cases with 876 currently active.

Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is urging Oklahomans who have chosen to attend large-scale gatherings in recent weeks to seek out testing for COVID-19, even if symptoms are not present.

As previously announced, OSDH encourages Oklahomans to seek COVID-19 testing both prior to attending large-scale gatherings and in the days following, and to wear a mask when physical distancing is a challenge. With active COVID-19 cases on the rise, OSDH is well positioned to support and partner with local government leaders and communities with free testing, resources, and local public health guidance.

“As expected, Oklahoma’s urban areas as well as a few communities around the state are experiencing a rise in active COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations due to increased social activity and mobility. We continue to have more than 80 free testing locations across the state, and we need Oklahomans to get tested, even those without symptoms, so we can identify active cases and work together to minimize community spread,” said Interim Commissioner Lance Frye, MD. “The Stitt administration and the Legislature prioritized COVID-19 data transparency with our nationally-recognized online dashboard. These daily updates protect individuals’ personal information while equipping local leaders with the best data to make adjustments to local public health guidance if needed. Our agency is well resourced to pro-actively partner with and provide guidance to those changes.”

The OSDH continues to make COVID-19 data transparent and publicly available, pointing to evidence-based guidance that allows local leaders, business owners, communities and individuals to make adjustments, and frequently reassess protocols, based on the active presence of COVID-19 locally. OSDH is committed to partnering with stakeholders on crafting recommendations for populations to take proactive measures to keep themselves safe and minimize spread.

Governor Kevin Stitt first charged the agency with a mission to build its nationally recognized data dashboard, launched within a month of COVID-19 arriving in Oklahoma. At the expiration of the Catastrophic Emergency Declaration, Attorney General Mike Hunter determined the Legislature had made appropriate adjustments in State law to allow a substantial portion of the data reporting to continue.

“OSDH has also deployed strike teams across 11 regions in the State to support communities when a COVID-19 hot spot has been identified,” said Commissioner Frye. “These strike teams are comprised of public health professionals, testing experts, and epidemiologists who partner with local stakeholders to increase testing capacity and provide additional infrastructure support and guidance to minimize spread.”

While the rise in cases certainly calls for increased vigilance, the State’s emergency protective supplies, and testing capacity remain strong. OSDH’s surge plan remains in place, and daily monitoring and communication continue should a need be identified to activate additional resources.

As to contact tracing, OSDH has hired over 700 full and part-time contact tracers since March 2020 to support these efforts. Additional contact tracers are being hired and trained to expand efforts.

“Personal responsibility remains key in protecting yourself and our local communities from COVID-19. We continue to encourage Oklahomans to consider wearing a mask, to routinely wash hands, and to use physical distancing measures, which are recommendations set forth by the CDC,” says Commissioner Frye, “As a society, we face a delicate balance of creating a new normal that takes into account public health, mental health, and economic risks. It will take all of us working together, as one State, to overcome the many challenges COVID-19 presents until there is a widely available vaccine.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 2,275,645 cases nationwide with 119,923 deaths. There have been 27,616 new cases and 308 deaths in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma is 37th in total cases (41st per capita) and 34th in deaths (35th per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 8,860,331 cases worldwide with 465,740 deaths. There have been 183,020 new cases reported in the past 24 hours, the highest number of daily new cases since the pandemic began. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,067,579, Russia with 592,280, and India with 425,282.