2017 July We Are Sand Springs Magazine

Jul - Aug 2017

PAGE

20

Where are they now?

Col. Eric Bloom Local Sandite

DIXON Auto Glass

www.WeAreSandSprings.com

2 WeAreSandSprings.com | July 2017

Index Letter from Mayor Mike Teacher of the Year: Janet Johnson Year of the Sandwiches: July Recipes New to the Scene: Dog & Duck Antiques CPHS Football Roster & Schedule Creation of Sand Springs Where are they Now: Eric Bloom Sandite Quarterback Club Sand Springs Calendar of Events Sandites in Service: Sandite Team for Animal Rescue Sandite Chatter: Sand Springs Curfew Summer Weather Warning

6 8 10 14 16 19 20 22 25 26 28 29

#wearesandsprings @wearesandsprings

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R

ecently w h i l e reading my favorite devotional (Sparkling Gems) I came across a very interesting subject on page 65 and 66 it is a study in James 3:16 and it said that in Jame 3:16 the Bible says “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” notice the word “envy”. It is taken from the greek word zelos, and it denotes a fierce desire to promote one’s own ideas and convictions to the exclusion of everyone else. The word “strife” (eitheia) was used by the ancient Greeks to stand for a political party. At the end of this devotional Rick gives a breakdown of Jame 3:16 like this: “For where there is a fierce desire to promote one’s own ideas and convictions to the exclusion of everyone else’s, it produces divisions so great that people end up taking sides and forming differing parties with conflicting agendas. This is a terrible event, because it creates great unrest among people who should be united.

Ultimately, the whole situation becomes a stinking mess!”

As I read this it hit a familiar note I knew I had read something like it but I couldn't think of where. As I retraced my most recent studies I remembered that I had been reading texts from George Washington and the most recent had been his farewell address so I returned to it and there is was in paragraph 18 unfortunately George Washington's farewell address has not been put into chapter verse, but more or less there it was. This address was never given orally but George wrote it with the help of James Madison and sent it to all governors

6 WeAreSandSprings.com | July 2017

and papers of the the 13 states. I love to read it because in it our founder warned this young “Republic” of the 12 things that were in his estimation the most dangerous to the “perplexed and critical posture of our affairs.” I was amazed as I read starting at paragraph 18: I have already intimated to you the danger of parties in the state, with particular reference to the founding of them on geographical discriminations. Let me now take a more comprehensive view, and warn you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of the spirit of party generally.

This spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from our nature, having its roots in the strongest passions of the human mind. It exists under different shapes in all governments, more or less stifled, controlled or repressed; but in those if the popular form it is seen in its greatest rankness and is truly their worst enemy.

The alternative domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge natural to party dissensions which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful depotism. But this lead at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders and miseries which result gradually incline the minds of men to deak security and response in the absolute power of an individual, and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or more fortunate than his own elevation on the ruins of public liberty.

Without looking forward to an extremity of this kind (which nevertheless ought not to be entirely out of sight), the common and continual mischiefs of the spirit of party are sufficient to make it the interest and duty of a wise people to discourage and restrain it.

It seems always to distract the public councils, and enfeeble the public

administration. It agitates the community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one part against another, foments occasionally riot and insurrection. It opens the door to foreign influence and corruption, which find a facilitated access to the government itself through the channels of party passion.

Thus the policy and the will of one country are subjected to the policy and will of another.

There is an opinion that parties in the free countries are useful checks upon the administration of the government and serve to keep alive the spirit of liberty.

This, within certain limit, is probably true, and in governments of a monarchical cast patriotism may look with indulgence, if not with favor, upon the spirit of party.

But in those of the popular character, in governments purely elective, it is a spirit not to be encouraged. From their natural tendency it is certain there will always be enough of that spirit for every salutary purpose; and there being constant danger of excess, the effort ought to be by force of public opinion to mitigate and assuage it. A fire not be quenched, it demands a uniform vigilance to prevent its bursting into a flame, lest, instead of warming, it should consume.

After reading this I didn't know if Paul had read George Washington or George Washington had read Rick Renner or had they all been reading our newspapers. But I know its a repeated revailing of the voice of God to every generation calling people to come together over differences instead of letting these differences divide them.

To be continued….

-

Mayor Mike

Summer Towing Summer vacations are underway, many Oklahomans are getting ready to hitch up their boats, campers and trailers behind their trucks and SUV's for a weekend of fun. But this kind of fun can turn into a very bad time if you aren't towing correctly. Not knowing proper towing practices can result in damaging your vehicle, or the object being towed.

Know your limits. Just because your vehicle has a hitch or a towing package, doesn't mean that it can tow anything.

Be sure to compare your vehicle's towing capacity to the specific object you are towing.

Get Comfortable. Even if everything is the same as last year, going long periods of time between towing can leave you rusty. Set aside some time to reacquaint yourself with your trailer.

Inspect your car thoroughly. Towing puts additional wear and tear on your engine and chassis. Inspect your vehicle or bring it to a trusted mechanic to identify any potential issues.

Slow Down. Extra weight and length of towing will cause your vehicle to accelerate more slowly, it will also cause your vehicle to slow down more slowly.

July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 7

TOTY

Teacher

of

the

Year

T E A C H E R

OF THE

YE AR Sand Springs Public Schools 2016-17 Teacher of the Year Janet Johnson is invested in the Sand Springs community and the lives of students who walk through her door every day.

Janet is a longtime resident of Sand Springs. A graduate of Charles Page High School, she returned to Sand Springs after college to teach. She attended the University of Oklahoma, majoring in elementary education. She later attended the University of Tulsa, where she received her bachelor’s degree in math and science elementary education and master’s degree in math and science education. She taught sixth grade math, sixth grade life science and seventh grade earth science at Hamilton Middle School from 1998-2001. In 2001, she started teaching at Clyde Boyd Middle School, where she currently teaches seventh grade science and pre-AP science and eighth grade environmental STEM.

“I bleed black and gold,” Janet said in her acceptance letter for site teacher of the year. “I returned to Sand Springs to teach, because I wanted to give back to the community that raised me … I can go anywhere from here; however, I purposely chose this community because I truly believe it is the best place to raise children, mostly because the schools have teachers that care deeply about students. I care what happens in Sand Springs and have a vested interest in its future.”

"I bleed black and gold."

Those close to her say Janet challenges minds by inspiring hearts. Kristin Arnold, assistant superintendent of curriculum and federal programs, recalls a visit to Janet’s classroom in which students were working to enhance a robotic hand created for a local student using a 3D printer and some creative engineering. “(The students’) overall task was to help him hold and eat a taco, but also to give him the ability to open a door using

TOTY

Sand Springs' own, Janet Johnson the doorknob,” Kristin says.

“After much discussion about the thumb and the abilities it gives us, the students realized the importance of form fits function. Next, the students sketched their ideas and then each student shared one concept that would contribute to reaching the overall goal.”

“Observing Mrs. Johnson interacting with the students was very insightful,” she continues. “She praised their work, but always left a group by getting them to strive for more as she sauntered on to the next set of students.

It was obvious when it was time for the class to end, the students didn’t want to go. A few actually moaned and voiced that they weren’t through. I must say that, as a teacher, having students want to stay and learn more because they’re engaged is the best kind of reward.”

CBMS Assistant Principal Ryan Bivin had this to say about Janet in his recommendation letter for Teacher of the Year: “Janet is an exceptional teacher and is eager to develop students into young scientists. She is hardworking, enthusiastic and extremely innovative … The passion she exudes for the curriculum is contagious. Janet strives to instill creativity and the love of learning. Students genuinely enjoy her class.”

in real time to the students,” CBMS teacher Jill Sandberg says. “After she attended Space Camp (last) summer, Janet took the lessons learned about making landers, rovers, water filtration and ablative shielding out of everyday objects to incorporate the new physical science standards for our students … When given an opportunity, Janet jumps in with both feet to make the science more project-based and relevant for our students.”

Throughout her career, Janet has won a number of awards, including CBMS Site Teacher of the Year for 2005-06 and 2016-17; Science Teacher Association Outstanding Educator in 2016; Sandite Coin of Excellence in 2016; and the Masonic Fraternity of Oklahoma Teacher of Today in 2006, among other various awards. She is also a member of the National Education Association, Oklahoma Education Association, Sand Springs Education Association, National Science Teachers Association, Oklahoma Science Teachers Association and Kappa Delta Pi. Outside of school, Janet is an avid volunteer for various charitable organizations throughout the community and state. She has three daughters and was a former foster parent.

“Janet has a personal mission to bring real-world issues

July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 9

RCP

Year of the Sandwich

- White Bread - Butter - Cucumber - Mayo

- Chives - Mustard - Salt - Pepper

- Olive Oil - Salt - Chicken - Balsalmic Vinegar

- Red Pepper - Onion - Focaccia Bread - Provolone

- Chicken - Greek Yogurt - Mustard - Chives

- Apricots - Almonds - Wheat Bread - Lettuce

Zucchini Parmesan Sandwiches Ingredients: 2 Medium Zucchini 1 Egg 3 Tbs. Milk 3/4 Cup Panko Breadcrumbs 1/3 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese 2 Tsp. Italian Seasoning Salt & Pepper 1/4 Cup Flour 1 Baguette Mozzarella Cheese 1 Cup Marinara Directions: Preheat Oven to 400F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice zucchini lengthwise into thirds. Whisk egg and milk together in one bowl, in another mix panko, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Put zucchini in flour, then egg mixture, and finally into the panko mixture. Put onto baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Turn on broiler. Divide zucchini evenly on bottom halves of bread and top with cheese. Return to broiler for 3-5 minutes. Remove and spread marinara sauce over the cheese, put together and enjoy!

See www.WeAreSandSprings.com for photo-credits.

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July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 13

N2S

New to the Scene: Dog & Duck Antiques

S

and Springs’ newest antique store is guaranteed to have something for everyone.

also have brushed up on their creative skills by painting and repurposing things for the shop.”

Located at 21 East 2nd St. in downtown Sand Springs, Dog & Duck Antiques and Gifts provides the community with a variety of antique furniture, home decor, collectibles and more. The store is family owned and operated by Sand Springs residents Chris and Julie Bedokis.

The store is relatively new to the Sand Springs community.

According to Julie, Dog & Duck held a soft opening over Memorial Day weekend. The shop, she says, plans to hold a grand opening event later in the summer.

“Our mission is to offer a unique selection of items for our customers that will bring joy to them and those they love,” says Julie. “It doesn’t matter if you’re more the dog or the duck, everyone loves to get or give something special.”

Dog & Duck truly is a family affair. Julie says the couple’s two daughters, Emma and Lauren, help out with a number of things at the shop.

“Our daughters Emma and Lauren help out especially with social media and anything tech related,” she says. “They

“You can follow our Facebook page to see new merchandise, pop-up sales and any upcoming events,” Julie says. “When you visit the shop, let us know that you follow us on Facebook for a 10 percent discount, available July 25-29.”

Dog & Duck is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The store is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

For more information, call 918-514-0370, visit Dog & Duck Antique and Gifts on Facebook or stop into the store for yourself.

July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 15

SAND FOO #

Name

Position

7

Garrett McCallie

RB

9

Hayden Cramer

MLB

13

Ben Nortey

RB

13

Alex Courville

SS

14

Bryson Denton

WR

18

Brett Pennington

QB

19

James McDougal

CB

21

Jacob Reed

CB

22

Devin Britton

CB

25

Kris Edwards

DE

26

Cooper Mock

MLB

30

Tristen Ogden

CB

32

JT Bristow

MLB

34

Payton Scott

RB

35

Tre Finch

DE, MLB

36

Kyree Barnett

MLB, RB

38

Jerry Lyons

MLB

39

Cameron Jones

OLB

44

Gage Fain

DE, FB

45

Tyler Brown

OLB, TE

47

Gabe Wakefield

OLB

48

Dash Fleischman

MLB, FB

55

Zac Blake

MLB

56

Cameron Lierly

C

58

Michael Davis

DE

60

Louis Autry

T

61

Ethan Hooper

T

64

Miron Krotzer

G

64

Tali Pannell

G

65

Nicholas Biggs

C

66

Michael Brown

DE

67

Austin Rutledge

T

69

Caleb Mallory

G

71

Kobe Chen

G

73

MALONN MOYER

NG, G

79

Dominique Pipes

G, T

80

Mason Shipman

WR

84

Knox Goggin

TE

87

Garrett Goins

WR

89

Colten Roberts

WR

Luke Bratcher

OLB

2017-2018 Roster & Sc

Go

Basketball

SPRINGS TBALL

CPHS Football chedule

! s e t i d n a S

8/21

8/28

Monday

Monday

8th Grade

FVC Preview

SS

6:30

9th Grade

FVC Preview

Sapulpa

6:30

8th Grade

Sapulpa Blue

Home

5:30

9th Grade

Sapulpa Blue

Home

7:00

9/01

Friday

Varsity

Pulaski Academy

Home

7:00

9/04

Monday

9th Grade

Jenks White

Jenks

6:00

9/05

Tuesday

8th Grade

Jenks Maroon

Jenks

6:00

9/08

Friday

Varsity

Choctaw

Home

7:00

9/11

Monday

8th Grade

Union Red

Union

6:00

JV

Union

Home

6:00

9/12

Tuesday

9th Grade

Jenks Maroon

Home

6:00

9/15

Friday

Varsity

Putnam City West

PC West

7:00

9/18

Monday

8th Grade

Kelley Red

Home

6:00

JV

OPEN

9/19

Tuesday

9th Grade

Owasso Red

Owasso

7:30

9/22

Friday

Varsity

Sapulpa

Sapulpa

7:00

9/25

Monday

8th Grade

Muskogee Green

Muskogee

6:00

9th Grade

Kelley Red

Home

5:30

JV

Sapulpa

Home

7:00

9/29

Friday

Varsity

Yukon

Yukon

7:00

10/2

Monday

8th Grade

Bartlesville Blue

Home

6:00

9th Grade

Muskogee Green

Muskogee

6:00

JV

OPEN Ponca City

7:00

10/6

Friday

Varsity

Ponca City

10/9

Monday

8th Grade

OPEN

9th Grade

Bartlesville Blue

Home

5:30

JV

Ponca City

Home

7:00

10/13

Friday

Varsity

Muskogee (HC)

Home

7:00

10/16

Monday

8th Grade

Sapulpa Blue

Sapulpa

5:30

9th Grade

Jenks White

Home

5:30

JV

Muskogee

Muskogee

7:30

10/19

Thursday

Varsity

Booker T. Washington

BTW

7:00

10/23

Monday

8th Grade

Kelley Red

Home

5:30

9th Grade

Sapulpa Blue

Sapulpa

6:00

JV

Booker T. Washington

Home

7:00

10/27

Friday

Varsity

Bartlesville

Home

7:00

10/30

Monday

JV

Bartlesville

Bartlesville

7:00

11/3

Friday

Varsity

Bixby (SR Night)

Home

7:00

$15

EXPRESS KIT

With e-liquid

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SSH

Creation of Sand Springs

T

he City of Sand Springs was officially incorporated in 1912, just five years after Oklahoma became a state, though its roots can be traced back even further.

According to the Oklahoma Historical Society, group of Cherokee people settled in the area that is now known as Sand Springs in 1826, but were soon moved due to treaties with the Creek tribe. Soon after possession by the Creek, Lt. Thomas Adams, a Native American and Confederate veteran of the Civil War, moved into present day Sand Springs with his family. The Creek were eventually moved; the only remaining mark of their settlement is a small cemetery located in the parking lot of the Keystone Plaza Shopping Center.

In 1908, oilman Charles E. Page purchased 160 acres of land after becoming wealthy during the oil boom. Wanting to give back some of his wealth, he built what is now known as the Sand Springs Home, which housed orphaned children.

The home originally consisted of a tent housing seven children, but was replaced with a structured building able to serve more than 50 children as the need arose.

Page was instrumental in the growth of this new, soonto-be city, opening an 80-acre park which included a carousel, roller coaster, Ferris wheel and zoo. He decided to form Sand Springs to the west of the children’s home, offering free land to anyone wishing to relocate, and offered businesses a $20,000 relocation bonus. He also built and established an interurban line -- the Sand Springs Railway -- which started in 1911 and carried two gasoline-engine rail cars between Sand Springs and Tulsa. The gasolineengine cars were later replaced with electric trolleys. The interurban line was in operation until January of 1955 -- the last operating interurban in the state.

With the construction of the interurban, the site of Sand Springs was also laid out. At its incorporation in 1912, the

city’s population consisted of approximately 400. The city continued to grow, and in 1917, a brick-and-steel structure replaced the children’s home building. Page later established a widow’s colony at the children’s home, allowing for widows to stay together with their families.

By 1918, Sand Springs consisted of two banks, a hotel, a newspaper, and a population of 900. Other amenities to the city included Kerr Glass Manufacturing Company, Commander Mills, Southwest Box Company and Sinclair Prairie Refineries, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Social and medical institutions were also prominent in the city, including the Sand Springs Home, Oakwood Sanitarium, Poole Hospital, the Salvation Army Maternity Home and the Sand Springs School for the Deaf.

As the city grew, so did the need for new amenities. A dam at Shell Creek Lake was built in 1920 to supply water to residents of the community. A private airport, Simms Airport, opened in 1947, and was later replaced with the William R. Pogue Airport, a municipal airport named to honor the Skylab 4 astronaut.

By the 1930s, Sand Springs had a population of more than 6,000. The city now consisted of seven automobile companies, a canning plant, creamery, foundry, two glass factories, two cotton gins, two ice companies, three laundromats, an oil refinery and textile mill, among others.

The population did see a slight decline during the Great Depression but increased exponentially in the years to come. By 1970, Sand Springs’ population broke the 10,000 mark. Five years earlier, in 1965, Sand Springs annexed Prattville, which can be attributed to the population growth.

Today, the City of Sand Springs stretches across 22 square miles, an extended growth area of 150 square miles and a population of more than 17,000, according to the city’s website. The city is continuously growing and flourishing.

July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 19

WTN

Where are they now?

As Independence day has passed, the fireworks stands are packing up their goods, however, celebrating our independence and those who work to make our freedom a reality is not reserved for a single day. A Charles Page High School Graduate has taken Sand Springs Pride internationally as a Public Affairs Officer for the military, telling the stories of American heroes and teaching those that will come after him.

Col. Eric Bloom is currently transitioning from Chief of Public Affairs with NATO in Belgium, to the Director of the Army Public Affairs Center in Fort Meade, Maryland.

But before his prestigious positions within the international world of military leaders, he graduated from Charles Page High School in 1982.

Bloom moved to Sand Springs from Kansas City just before his sixth grade year and quickly became involved with several extracurricular activities. He was involved with Band, Speech, Debate, Key Club and Drama. Eric never stepped foot on stage, he took to the backstage and technical aspects of the drama productions. His involvement with drama production sparked his interest in other production opportunities.

After graduating, Eric went to Miami, Oklahoma to Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College to study Technical Theatre. His interest in lighting, sound, and technical effects for the theatre grew. For a time, Eric even worked at Discoveryland in Sand Springs on the play Oklahoma.

He enjoyed working behind the scenes and states, “... it all started at (Charles Page High) school.� While at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M he took a television production course and became very interested in the TV aspect of production. He soon went on to Oklahoma State University and acquired more training in TV production. While attending OSU he started getting jobs in the industry, working on commercials for places like Sonic, BOK, Citgo, ONG and others. He finally finished up his bachelor's degree in broadcast communications at University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond.

In 1984 while Eric was attending OSU he joined the Oklahoma National Guard to help with the cost of college.

All throughout his early career in corporate production he would be a part of the National Guard, On 9/11, Eric was in California at the time buying some equipment for his job as a citizen, as soon as he heard the news, he and a few others drove back to Oklahoma from California and was shortly after deployed to Afghanistan as a Public Affairs Officer.

WTN

Col. Eric Bloom - Director of Public Affairs

After a few deployments with the Guard, Major Col. Eric Bloom was assessed onto active duty in Heidelberg, Germany and was assigned to the Public Affairs Office for the US Army Europe Command.

As his incredible journey continues to unfold, Eric states, “When doors open, they open for a reason. Walk through the door. If you never walk through the door, you won’t know what’s on the other side.”

Col. Eric Bloom has been stationed all over the world, from Germany to Korea and Hawaii to Europe. When looking back on his education in Sand Springs, he notes that being a photographer in a journalism class definitely sparked his interest in visual media. In 2012, Eric was inducted into the Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame.

While he was here receiving that award, asked for one individual to be at his table, Roy Briscoe. Mr. Briscoe unknowingly helped Eric into an entire career path by showing him all of the behind the scenes work that needed to be done for the individuals on stage. By piecing that puzzle together, he helped Eric see the big picture of production that still applies to his career today.

Col. Eric Bloom has taken some of the lessons he learned from Mr. Briscoe and other professional mentors and has passed on the

wisdom to others he is mentoring within the military.

When asked about what impact Sand Springs had on his success, Eric notes that Sand Springs is a small town which has enabled him to build some lasting friendships. With the use of social media today, keeping in touch with his high school friends keeps him grounded in his travels across the world. Making the friends he did in school, he encourages students to keep those friendships alive over the distance and years.

Eric is married with two children and one grandchild. His older son lives and works in Stillwater and his youngest daughter will be moving with him to Maryland at his new position as Director of the Army Public Affairs Center. After moving around the world, his family is adjusting to life stateside and are preparing for their move.

Eric’s final word of encouragement for all Sandites is this, “Whatever you find that you enjoy make that your passion. Be passionate about your hobbies, your career, your profession… and as long as you are passionate about it, you will find success.” He continues, “Give it your all, give it your best, and doors will start to open for you if you are passionate about it.”

July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 21

QBC

Sandite Quarterback Club:

S

andite Football is quickly approaching its 2017 season, and with it comes a number of new fundraisers for the Sandite Quarterback Club.

“Our season is getting ready to kick off, and we are in high gear in planning for it all!” says SQBC President Tirita Montross.

The Sandite Quarterback Club is a group of volunteers who provide additional resources and support for Sand Springs Public Schools football teams, from eighth grade through varsity, according to Tirita. All parents of eighth through 12th grade players are required to become members. Anyone can become a member of the SQBC. “One very exciting and new thing this year is our membership,” Tirita says. “We have offered a $25 membership in the past and have decided to offer a tiered membership this year.”

Memberships include a $25 Sandite Pride membership; $40 Sandite Athletic Alumni and $50 Sandite Strong memberships, which include halftime refreshments in the team room at each home game; $100 Sandite Proud membership, which includes halftime refreshments in the team room at each home game and reserved seating; and a $124 Sandite Black and Gold membership, which includes halftime refreshments at each home game, reserved seating, a team steak dinner and a reserved parking spot at the fieldhouse for home football games.

“We are super excited to offer these new types of memberships,” says Tirita. “We hope to have a full house at each home game!”

Several new fundraisers have been added for the SQBC this year, including a pig and steer raffle, Press/Family Day and a special deal with Same Day Auto.

“We are raising a pig and a steer as we speak!”

Tirita says. “We are going to sell raffle tickets for two sides of beef for $20 a ticket for two chances to win, and two sides of pork for $10 per ticket with two chances to win. This will include processing and delivery in the Sand Springs area. We hope this 22 WeAreSandSprings.com | July 2017

Prepare for a new season. appeals to almost everyone. One side of beef can feed a family of four to six for a year, and it is easily a $1,700 value!”

Sandite Football players will be selling tickets at Meet the Sandites Night on Aug. 17, as well as the first three home games. The raffle will be held at the Oct. 13 home game, and Tirita assures you don’t have to be present to win!

Press/Family Day will be held Aug. 13. Hillspring Church and Harvest Church will provide more than 800 hot dogs, drinks and chips to eighth through 12th grade football, cheer and dance team members.

Same Day Auto Repair & Tire Pro is also partnering with the SQBC to offer 100 lifetime oil changes for sale.

“They are a huge savings!” says Tirita. “It covers oil changes every 5,000 miles and can be used at any of their five area locations. (The deal) includes drain and filling of factory-specified oil, replacement of oil filter, washer fluid, lubricating chassis points and free tire rotation at each visit.”

Lifetime oil deals will be sold for $100 each and will be sold at Meet the Sandites Night and home games.

The club’s largest fundraiser for the year is Meet the Sandites Night, an annual tailgate in partnership with Church That Matters that introduces fall sports with the schools and all elementary age cheer and football teams. Meal tickets are $5 and include a hamburger, hot dog or chicken sandwich, chips and a water. In addition, Tirita says the club is also selling ads, banners and game sponsorships for programs and banners hung in the stadium.

“If any area businesses would like to be a part of our sponsors, please contact us -- we want to include you!” she says.

The Sandite Quarterback Club supports school football teams by providing food to all teams after every away game; hosting a senior steak dinner and end of season banquet; creating football programs for home games; providing snacks before away games for each team; and providing coaching stipends and equipment for teams. For more information, contact the club at 918-419-2040 or visit the club’s Facebook page.

July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 23

24 WeAreSandSprings.com | July 2017

CAL

Sand Springs: Calendar of Events July SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY 1

Salvation Army: After School Program Registration Begins this month

Salvation Army: 4/5/6 Year Old "Small Ball" Sign Ups begin this month

2

3

4 Independence Day

5 Big Blast Fireworks Last Day

6

7

8

9

10 Sand Springs Chamber Open Forum

11

12

13

14 CASEtime FREE Movie Night

15

16

17

18

19

20

21 National Junk Food Day

22

23 Parents' Day

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

Celebrate July 4th

August SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

3

4

5

6 BubbleTown CarWashes 13th Anniversary!

7 Sand Springs Chamber Open Forum

8

9

10

11 CASEtime FREE Movie Night

12

13

14

15

16

17 SS Schools: Professional Day

18 SS Schools: Professional Day

19 Sertoma & Quota International Annual Murder Mystery Dinner and Show

20

21 SS Schools: Professional Day

22 SS Schools: First Day of Classes

23

24

25

26 National Dog Day

27

28

29

30

31

Go to www.WeAreSandSprings.com and

/WeAreSandSprings for a complete listing of local events.

July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 25

SSED

Sandite Team for Animal Rescue - STAR: Sandites in Service

A local animal rescue is helping Sand Springs pets find their forever homes.

STAR -- Sandite Team for Animal Rescue -- is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to the rescue and care of abused, neglected and homeless pets. The organization works with Sand Springs Animal Control to receive adoptable pets before they are euthanized. Pets are then vetted and fostered before being sent to no kill rescues and shelters in other states.

Animals not selected for transports are fostered until they are adopted locally through Petfinders and Adopt a Pet. “Sandite Team Animal Rescue is a nonprofit organization created by a group of citizens who wanted to help save the lives of area dogs and cats,” says Jami Stinson of STAR. “Our goal is to save the lives of abused, neglected and homeless pets and place them in forever homes … We take in all the abused, unwanted and neglected animals that we can handle.”

STAR has been saving furry lives for more than half a decade. The fully volunteer-run organization has helped to provide veterinary care, spay/neuter services, transport services and foster care for hundreds of cats and dogs through fundraising, sponsorships and donations. There are no paid staff members at STAR, ensuring 100 percent of donations made to the organization go directly to benefit homeless, neglected and abused animals in need.

26 WeAreSandSprings.com | July 2017

“We save about 70-80 animals per year,” Jami says. “This is done by finding local adoptive homes or working with other nonprofit organizations that transport animals from our area to other states that have strict spay/ neuter laws. The states that accept transported animals actually have a shortage of adoptable animals due to those laws. We would love to see our numbers increase. We could save more animals if we had a larger network of foster homes.”

Jami says STAR holds an number of fundraisers and events to help benefit the organization.

“We hold a fundraiser dinner every fall. It's a evening of good food and fun,” she says. “Local business are always so generous with donations for our silent auction for the evening. We also regularly raise funds through parking space sales at the parking lot of Riggs & Abney in downtown Tulsa. The law firm’s parking lot is a short walk from the BOK Center, and spaces go for $5 each. It's very easy to get in and out before and after events.Our next date to the host the lot will be July 27 for Florida Georgia Line. Come by and see us!”

“Each spring, we host a 5k run,” Jami continues. “We welcome walkers, and of course, we encourage participants to bring out man's best friend for our jog with a dog. We took a break for 2017 due to construction at River City Park, but we will be planning for 2018 to be bigger and better.”

Recently, the organization hosted “Hike With Your Dog Day” at Keystone Ancient Forest.

“Our goal was to not only spread awareness of STAR, but to get people out and be active with their buddies,” Jami says.

Currently, Jami says STAR is looking for foster homes for pets in need.

"We desperately need foster homes,” Jami explains. “We have had to turn down multiple requests for help because we do not have a place for the animal to go. It's easy to be a foster parent. You just have to love animals. STAR covers all costs for food and vetting. Fosters provide a place to crash until the animal can be adopted or go on transport.”

Those interested in donating or becoming a foster parent for a pet in need can contact Sandite Team Animal Rescue at 918-260-5738 or by visiting www.starescue.com. You can also reach STAR on their Facebook page.

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CHAT

Sandite Chatter: Sand Springs Curfew

S

and Springs law enforcement is reminding Sandites about a curfew aimed at curbing crime and protecting kids.

The ordinance, enforced by the Sand Springs Police Department, deals with the issues of curfew for minors (those under the age of 18). According to Captain Todd Enzbrenner, the curfew was created to “help curb juvenile crime.”

According to City Ordinance 9.28.010, “it is unlawful for any minor to remain, wander, stroll or play in any public place on foot or to cruise about without a set destination in any vehicle in, about or upon any public place in the city between the hours of twelve midnight and five a.m. in the morning on any day.” Exceptions to this include if the minor is accompanied by a parent, guardian, custodian or other adult person having custody or control of such minor; the minor is on an emergency errand or specific business or activity directed or permitted by his or her parent, guardian, or other adult person having the care and custody of the minor; or where the presence of such minor is connected with or required by some legitimate employment, trade, profession or occupation.

“Basically, if you are under 18, you cannot be out and about between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m. any day of the week,” Cpt. Enzbrenner says, adding that a few exceptions include coming from work, school/ church function, or an emergency. “The ordinance has been in effect for at least 24 years and was instituted to help curb juvenile crime. The old adage applies: ‘Nothing good happens after midnight.’”

According to Cpt. Enzbrenner, enforcement action is simple.

“If an officer stops a car and the person is underage, the officer will find out why they are out past curfew. He may issue a warning or write a citation, or send them home. If an underage person is walking, officers will stop and talk to them and ask the same questions and perform the same functions. It’s important, not only to help curb crime for those individuals who would do such things, but it also protects our kids from danger.”

There is some criticism to the ordinance, however. One resident says he believes the parents should be concerned with what their children are doing, not law enforcement.

“I don’t think it is the police departments job to parent kids,” he says in a comment on the We Are Sand Springs Facebook page. “Although I agree they shouldn’t be out that late, it shouldn’t be a crime either.

Part of what is wrong with this country now is the government wants to control every aspect of your life... Let the parents worry about their own kids and the police worry about REAL CRIME!! Lord knows Sand Springs has enough of that!!”

Others agree that a curfew is necessary.

“What’s a 17 year old need to be out past 12 (a.m.) for? I can’t think of any legitimate reasons,” one resident says, while another agrees: “I’m cool with. Just my opinion but I don’t think kids 17 and under should be running the streets during those hours anyway so yeah it’s good.”

The full ordinance can be viewed online at www.sandspringsok.org/documentcenter/view/395.

28 WeAreSandSprings.com | July 2017

Jim Schrepel Absolutely! Those who are young and without children don't have a clue yet. Parenting changes everything!

Melissa Bennett Bevins I'm cool with. Just my opinion but I don't think kids 17 and under should be running the streets during those hours anyway so yeah it's good.

Mary Wilcox Honestly I agree my parents always said nothing good came after midnight so be home Greg Michno Too many ridiculous rules. If they're going to break laws they could care less about a curfew.

Trent Mcbride I don't think it is the police department's job to parent kids. Although I agree they shouldn't be out that late , it shouldn't be a crime either.

WARNING A

s summer heats up, remember to always keep pets and children safe from the heat.

can be combatted is by providing shady areas for pets and children to play and relax.

When thinking about summer in Oklahoma, one word comes to mind: HOT. The state has seen average highs of between 100 and even 120 degrees fahrenheit (recorded in Tipton on June 27, 1994). It isn’t unusual for humidity percentages to be close to 100 percent, with little to no precipitation not uncommon in the summer months.

“If you are exposed to direct sunlight, the heat index value can be increased by up to 15°F,” the National Weather Association states. “... Heat indices meeting or exceeding 103°F can lead to dangerous heat disorders with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity in the heat.”

Due to Oklahoma’s hot and humid climate, the Sand Springs Police Department is reminding residents that children and pets should never be left alone inside a hot car.

Monitor time spent outdoors

“When the outside temperature is between 80 and 100 degrees, the inside of a car can reach temperatures of 130 to 172 degrees very quickly,” says Captain Todd Enzbrenner.

“Our child’s or pet’s life is not worth the convenience of leaving them in the car for ‘just a few minutes.’ Take them with you or leave them at home.

As the saying goes, if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pets. Make sure playtime outdoors is monitored, not leaving pets outdoors for extended periods of time. If you must leave your pet out for a longer period, make sure your pet has ample protection from the heat and fresh, cold water. Tree shade and tarps are best for keeping cool, while doghouses do not provide relief from heat and could in fact make the situation worse.

Pets and children alike can also be at risk for heat-related problems and injuries while playing outside. Here are some things you can do to ensure your pets and children are safe on a hot day, as well as yourself!.

In the same respect, make sure children are not overheating from extended outdoor playtime. Make sure children (as well as pets!) are getting necessary cool-off breaks in order to reduce chances of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Monitor temperatures, heat index and humidity

Keep pets and children cool, indoors and out

An 80-degree day could feel more like a 90-degree day or higher when humidity is taken into consideration. According to the National Weather Association, heat index is “what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature.”

Fresh water should always be available to pets, especially in warm months. Make sure your pet has a water bowl filled with cold water both indoors and outdoors. You can also provide special chilled snacks to pets to cool them down.

Doggie popsicles are a favorite among canine friends.

Mix one ripe banana, 8 ounces of plain yogurt, and one tablespoon of creamy peanut butter in a blender or food processor, pour into ice cube trays or muffin tins, and freeze overnight. Pop out once frozen and give your buddy a tasty, cool treat he’ll love.

“When the body gets too hot, it begins to perspire or sweat to cool itself off,” the association’s website states. “If the perspiration is not able to evaporate the body cannot regulate its temperature. Evaporation is a cooling process. When perspiration is evaporated off the body, it effectively reduces the body's temperature.

When the atmospheric moisture content (i.e. relative humidity) is high, the rate of perspiration from the body decreases. In other words, the human body feels warmer in humid conditions.”

Children, as well as adults, can also stay hydrated by bringing bottles of ice water along for outdoor activities. Note that drinks such as water and Gatorade keep humans hydrated, while sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks can actually dehydrate the body. The caffeine in such drinks is a diuretic, causing you to urinate more frequently than you should.

In addition, sodium in these drinks causes the body to be thirsty, and can have you reaching for another can of soda.

Make sure to always stay safe while having fun this summer!

One way negative heat effects July 2017 | WeAreSandSprings.com 29

It's Summertime...

It’s summertime and the heat is beating down on humans and our furry friends alike. As much as we love fun in the sun it is important to remember that the higher temperatures can greatly effect your pets. Cats and Dogs can get overheated if we are not careful, and overheating causes severe health issues. So here are a few tips for keeping your pets hydrated and cool during the hot summer months.

Don’t leave your pet in an unattended vehicle. On a 75-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can climb up to 115 degrees within an hour. Even with the windows down, a dog can easily overheat if left in these conditions.

Avoid walking on hot surfaces like asphalt. Your pup’s paws can be as sensitive as the soles of your feet. If the asphalt’s too hot for you to walk on, chances are it’s too hot for your pup too. On a walk, try to alternate between asphalt, sidewalk, and grass so that your dog’s delicate paws don’t get overheated.

Supply lots of fresh, clean water. Some dogs get a bit finicky with their water if there’s an odd scent in the bowl or if it’s been warming up in the sun for a while.

Keeping a fresh, clean supply of H2O in your dog’s dish will ensure that your pup drinks more often and stays hydrated.

If it’s > 85 degrees, leave your dog at home. Going to the beach and sitting out all day in the sun is something we humans enjoy, but it can leave our furry friends severely dehydrated. Even if you feel like the heat is bearable, remember, when dogs are exposed to moderately high temperatures over an extended period of time, their bodies might be unable to cool down.

Don’t overexercise pets. Dogs don’t always know their own limits. If you can tell your dog is breathing more rapidly or having some trouble chasing after a ball, slow things down and allow him to cool off.

Know the signs of dehydration. Sunken eyes, lethargy, excessive panting, loss of appetite, dry mouth, and depression are just some of the symptoms for dogs. Know your pet’s normal and note any differences.

30 WeAreSandSprings.com | July 2017

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32 WeAreSandSprings.com | July 2017