2021 November We Are Sand Springs Magazine

NOVE MBE R 2021

2 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

04

Letter From The Editor

05

Celebrating the spirit of the season in Sand Springs

07

A Sandite Christmas Poem

08

New to the Scene

09

Winner Winner, Turkey Dinner!

12

The Real Meaning of Christmas

13

2021 CPHS Basketball Schedule

14

Respecting our Sandite Veterans

16

We are Thankful

18

Grateful Giving in Sand Springs

22

The History of Christmas Parades

24

Then and Now: Hall of Fame for the SSEF

28

Don't be a Scrooge

30

Happy Little Reindeer Games

CONTENTS

Landscape Photo Winner, Shannon Hamilton

Check out the rest of our Sand Springs Landscape Photo contest winners on page 9!

Let’s talk about something tough. (Don’t flip the page. We can do tough things together, Sandites!)

Lately, I have noticed many of us, including myself, questioning the decisions of other people. We have been through some tough times over the last few years and I wonder if our circumstances haven’t made cynics out of some of us.

So here it is.. I want to talk about the big ugly A word.

Accountability.

Not responsibility, but accountability.

When times get tough it can be easy to look at how everyone else is handling their problems and personal growth instead of focusing on our own. This is a very human instinct (aka fight or flight) but part of being accountable is knowing when our input is hurtful and/or unhelpful we should not share it. Accountability is not the same as responsibility. Accountability is the idea that we all have to balance the ledger of the outcomes that have come about from our actions, words, and efforts. We are accountable for HOW we use the knowledge or lack of knowledge we have about a specific subject or situation.

As I have been thinking about accountability over the past few months one thing has become incredibly clear. When thoughtful consideration is put into personal accountability, decisions and conversations become more fruitful.

When we reflect on the outcomes of our actions we are able to make changes that better the balance of ledgers.

I do want to be clear. I am not suggesting that you not stand up for something you believe will make a difference in the world. What I am saying is to remember to sweep in front of your own door first. Be humble about what you think you know, and what might just be opinion. Listen. Be kind.

I love our country, state and town! Thanks for talking about the hard stuff with me, Sandites!

All the VERY best,

- Danielle Myers

PS. I think Theodore Roosevelt says it best: "It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

Send us a letter or email: 118 N Main St Sand Springs, OK 74063 info@wearesandsprings.com • 918-521-1810 4 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

ce l e b ra t in g t he s pir it o f t he season in sand springs

This is the time of year for hot cocoa, gift giving, and the type of hospitality that fills the home, with warm feelings of community and togetherness. While turkeys are baked and ornaments are hung on the tree, take a moment to reflect on your year full of triumphs and defeats and triumphs again. Look through each month like a story book, pages filled with memories of your life, and let that inspire you to take action this holiday season to truly make a difference in our hometown of Sand Springs.

Holiday Game!

I n t h is h olid ay e d i ti o n o f We ar e San d S p rin gs , we h ave i n cl u d e d 5 cl assi c h olid a y s t or yb o o k th e me s - can yo u f in d t h e m al l ? Hap p y r e ad i n g!

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 5

The colder temperatures are officially setting in, especially during the night hours. Our pets do not need to be left outside for long hours during the day and we need to be sure we are taking the proper precautions for our animals, not only at night, but all throughout the day. We love our four-legged pets and their lives are at-risk if we are not intentional with their care during the winter.

Here are some helpful tips to keep our animals safe and healthy during the cold months of the year.

Outdoor Animals It is important to be aware of the animals that are living outdoors during thewinter months. Stray cats, neighborhood cats, or other small wildlife will typically crawl in the hoods of cars to keep warm. It is always smart to bang on the hood of your car to scare off any cat, or animal that could have crawled up in the engine.

Speak Out

Keep Pets Inside As the temperatures continue to drop in the fall and winter months, we should take this into consideration for our animals.

Short-haired animals do not have enough hair to keep them warm enough, so they should not be left outside all through the day, and definitely not over night. Our pets with longer hair and thicker coats are able to bear the temperatures a little more, but still be aware of the time theyare spending outside. Letting your animals out to use the bathroom, or taking them on a short walk are a couple of mindful ways to give your pets the exercise they need, but also keeping them from being out in the cold temperatures for too long. With freezing temperatures and wind chill, animals lives are at risk. By simply keeping them indoors as often as possible, we are protecting our animals.

Bundle Up, Wipe Off In order to keep our household pets warm while being outside, we should be bundling them up when they go on a walk, when they are let outside to play, or even if they are going out to use the restroom. Another thing to be aware of when taking pets on a walk in the winter months is the rock salt, or snow melt that is in neighborhood roads and driveways.This can irritate your animals paws, so to prevent your animals from ingesting those chemicals, or their paws becoming irritated, wipe their paws off right after their walk.

6 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

Wintertime neglect is often a concern and should be addressed.

If an animal is being neglected, or not being properly taken care of during this cold season, approach the owner of that animal with your concerns. If you continue to see neglect take place, call your local animal control or county sheriff's office to communicate your concerns. Pets are deserving of proper care throughout the cold season and your role in that is so important.

A Sandite Christmas Poem Twas the days before the holidays and all Poem

Grilling, baking and recipes for plenty

throughout Sand Springs

Perfect for every stocking - let’s get twenty!

the spark of Christmas cheer was beginning to

For that cousin who has everything, they

ring!

needed to scrounge

Christmas lights were hung along

“How about a gift card from Blush

downtown with care

Hair and Makeup Lounge?”

In hopes that shoppers would find their way there

Dads arms full and kids with pieces of toffee

Store displays were ready not a toy or sweater misplaced Parents and children had their shoes on perfectly laced Stroller in the trunk, wallet in hand the whole family with so much joy they could hardly stand.

When out of the car arose such excitement They jolted from their seats to

Mom suggested a break, “let's head over to Boulder Coffee!”

Hot chocolate, peppermint lattes and the freshest beans around “We only need one more gift, something profound!”

Hurry - before the shops close!

We have to look into the windows!

Frantically looking for something unique The family stumbled upon Dog and Duck

see if there was a tyrant

Antiques!

Away to the window the kids were in mystique

Old and new - they had it all

Why, that’s YellowHouse Market and Boutique!

If only they could get one of everything they saw!

Fine fashion, purses, and jewelry galore

Car packed to the brim and kids buckled in

“We HAVE to go into that store!”

“Phew - we found the best gifts for all our kin”

Bags in hands and on to the next

On their way home the kids fell asleep in a blink

Mom found herself quite perplexed

“Our town is just perfect - don’t you think?”

Dad screamed before even thinking twice

Sand Springs is not only a place to buy gifts

“Oh my - look! It’s Okie Spice!”

It’s the people and the culture that exists.

In the weeks to come the family brought their friends and family straight into downtown Sand Springs where they could visit so many more restaurants, boutiques and flower shops.

Come see what you can find on your holiday adventure in Sand Springs!

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 7

NEW TO THE SCENE

Grab your flannel and boots and channel your inner lumberjack - Noble Axe is an axe-throwing experience for the whole family. Axe throwing is the new bowling and we are here for it!

While axe-throwing has been around for generations, it's new to Downtown Sand Springs as a wonderful addition to the entertainment options in the Sandite community. Named after owner Brad's son, Noble Axe is Sand Springs' first and finest axe throwing establishment.

Noble Axe made it to Sand Springs when the City of Sand Springs was looking for someone to take over the old Sand Springs Police and Fire offices building on N Lincoln Avenue, and Noble Axe was looking for a new home. Brad hopes to bring Sandites another option for entertainment right in the heart of Sand Springs.

Just about anyone can enjoy axe throwing, from ages 4 to 94 and everyone in between, axe throwing is an

experience that’s sure to make for great memories. Noble Axe professionals spend time with each guest to show them the best ways to throw an axe, knife, throwing star, and/or hatchet to hit the target and release their inner lumberjack. The axe-throwing experience is complete with a list of games from point systems to tossing your hat to hook on the axe to add in some friendly competition.

Noble Axe is the perfect adventure for taking date night to the next level with drinks available and a variety of throwing games to turn up the heat of competition. The Stadium Room at Noble Axe is a private room, perfect for birthday parties, groups, and families, that features 3 targets that are equally challenging and welcoming to little throwers.

If you’re an experienced axe-throwing enthusiast, well, Noble Axe has Thursday Night League Night just for you! Enjoy good competition, good drinks, and good people with the Noble Axe league.

Noble Axe is the perfect activity for friends, date nights, birthday parties, groups, and more! Pricing is per-hour and is the best price in town at just $15 an hour per person.

216 N Lincoln Ave. Sand Springs, OK 740763 • www.nobleaxe.com • (539) 217-1019 ​https://www.facebook.com/nobleaxethrowing/ 8 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

WINNER WINNER turkey dinner!

Can we get a round of applause for the We are Sand Springs Landscape Photo Contest winners?! WOW! We are amazed at the talent and beautiful landscape that Sand Springs has to offer. Two months ago, we put out a call for community members to share their photos of the Sand Springs Landscape with us and boy - WE ARE NOT disappointed with the results! Thank you to all who submitted their photos and participated this year! Make sure you follow us on social media to find out more about our future contests that you could WIN!

First Place: Shannon Hamilton

Second Place: Troy Compton

Third Place: Jeanne Grace

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 9

10 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 11

THE REAL MEANING OF

Christmas

WRITTEN BY RUSTY GUNN

Until my first-born son was old enough to enjoy opening gifts, I was a total scrooge when it came to Christmas. I hated the music, the hustle bustle, the celebrations, and the decorations.

That’s a pretty vulnerable confession for a pastor to make.

Christmas gift I had ever received. I was a fourteen year old stud-muffin, alpha male, chick-magnet, seventh grade jock, and my mom had gotten me a porcelain doll dressed up in a baseball uniform. I was soooo mad! She collected dolls, and I guess she wanted to add this one to her collection or something. So, she bought I am not sure what got me to that point. Maybe it it for me for Christmas. She said she thought I was working at Old Navy when I was in college and would like it. She was wrong. I am still scarred! hearing the 12-song Christmas CD play on a loop from November 1st through January 1st. It could I am sure there are other experiences that have been seeing people literally with tears in played into me being so un-jolly around the their eyes as they slapped down a credit card at holidays for many years, but thankfully when my register to pay a bill they knew, and I knew, my wife and I had children, we established some they couldn’t afford. You could just see it all good, healthy holiday traditions that have helped bring over their faces. me back to the real meaning of Christmas and have changed me deeply.

Serving as a music minister in a traditional church may have also played The reality of God coming down to earth, putting a part as we, because of tradition, sang skin on, and walking side by side with man has become the same songs week after week and overwhelming to me. The story of Jesus and His nobody even really stopped to think birth, life, death, and resurrection is so far, the about the words we were singing. greatest story ever told. I say “so far” because the Then, at twenty-one years old, I was story is not yet complete. There is a promise found placed in charge of the church’s in the story of Jesus that He will come again for 100-year-old tradition of the Hanging those who are found in Him. The anticipation of of the Greens. I had no idea what Christmas Day and our Christmas celebrations that even meant. When it was done, should remind us and draw us into that truth. and I didn’t do it like it had always been Jesus truly is the only gift that keeps on giving done, there were a couple of ladies who let me know without end. that they “didn’t know what that was, but that was NOT the Hanging of the Greens.”

This Christmas season, whether you love all things Christmas or you would rather just cancel I am sure another experience contributed to it and move on, take time to reflect on what this my bah humbug feelings toward the Christmas time is really about. Read the Christmas story from season. I was in the seventh grade, fourteen Luke chapters 1 and 2 in the Bible with your family. years old. That year there were a particularly If you’re really wanting to dig deep, also read the larger amount of Christmas gifts under the tree book of John. You will find truth that will set you free than usual for our family. I really don’t know why, to experience the Christ of Christmas like never before. but I remember a few years earlier, my mother had started a tradition of letting my sister and me open Rusty Gunn is the Lead Pastor one present early, the week before Christmas.

So, the day had come for that to happen, and at Church That Matters. You I was excited about it. My sister and I looked can find more information around the boxes with our names on them. about Church That Matters at My sister picked hers. I found the heaviest box with my name on it because that must be the churchthatmatters.com best present. I opened it. It was the worst 12 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

CPHS 21-22 BASKETBALL SCHEDULE

11/02/21

11/04/21

11/09/21

11/18/21

12/03/21 12/07/21

Tuesday

Thursday

Tuesday

Thursday

Friday

Tuesday

OPPONENT: Holland Hall

OPPONENT: Cleveland

OPPONENT: NOAH

OPPONENT: NOAH

OPPONENT: Owasso

Girls Scrimmage

Boys Scrimmage

OPPONENT: Tulsa Will Rogers

Boys

Boys HOME JV: 5:30PM VARSITY: 7PM

Boys Scrimmage

HOME TBA

HOME 3:30PM

HOME 3:30PM

AWAY TBA

12/09 12/11/21

12/14/21

12/1612/18/21

12/2801/04/22 01/11/22 01/02/22

Thurs - Sat

Tuesday

Thurs - Sat Tues - Sun

OPPONENT: Tulsa Central Tournament

OPPONENT: Jenks

OPPONENT: Memorial Invitational Tournament

Girls

HOME 4/5/6:30/8

Tuesday

Tuesday

OPPONENT: Girls Folrida Tournament

OPPONENT: Booker T Washington

OPPONENT: Broken Arrow

AWAY TBA

AWAY 4/5/6:30/8

AWAY 4/5/6:30/8

Varsity Boys Only

AWAY TBA

AWAY 4/5/6:30/8

AWAY TBA

01/14/22

01/18/22

01/20 01/20 01/25/22 01/28/22 01/22/22 01/22/22

Friday

Tuesday

Thurs - Sat Thurs - Sat Tuesday

OPPONENT: Bartlesville

OPPONENT: Muskogee

OPPONENT: Port City Tournament Boys

OPPONENT: Jenks/Union Tournament Girls

OPPONENT: Bixby

OPPONENT: Sapulpa

AWAY 4/5/6:30/8

HOME 4/5/6:30/8

AWAY TBA

AWAY TBA

AWAY 4/5/6:30/8

HOME 4/5/6:30/8

02/11/22

02/15/22 02/18/22

02/01/22 02/04/22 02/8/22

Friday

Tuesday

Friday

Tuesday

Friday

Tuesday

Friday

OPPONENT: Union

OPPONENT: Owasso

OPPONENT: Jenks

OPPONENT: Booker T. Washington

OPPONENT: Broken Arrow

OPPONENT: Bartlesville

AWAY 4/5/6:30/8

AWAY 4/5/6:30/8

HOME 4/5/6:30/8

HOME 4/5/6:30/8

AWAY 4/5/6:30/8

HOME 4/5/6:30/8

02/24 03/03 03/10 02/26/22 03/05/22 03/12/22 Thurs - Sat

Thurs - Sat Thurs - Sat

OPPONENT: 6A Regional Tournament

OPPONENT: 6A Regional Tournament

OPPONENT: 6A Regional Tournament

TBA

TBA

TBA

TBA

TBA

TBA November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 13

RESPECTING OUR SANDITE VETERANS

V

eterans Day is a time for us to pay our respects

“National Veterans Awareness Week”. This United

to those who have served. For one day out of

States Senate Resolution 143 calls for educational

the year, we all intentionally stand together united in

efforts directed at elementary and secondary school

respect for our veterans.

students concerning the contributions and sacrifices of veterans. Ever since that day in 1918, the US has

The original holiday was called Armistice Day the day that the Allied powers signed a ceasefire

been making strides to improve education, unity and honoring of all veterans.

agreement with Germany bringing the war now known as World War 1 to a close. November 11th

You might notice that the word “veterans” does

became commemorated as the day that on the 11th

not include an apostrophe. That is not a preference

hour, 11th day and in the 11th month of 1918 that

- rather it is a definite and deliberate choice with

signaled the end of war. It wasn’t until 1938 that the

meaning! According to the U.S. Department of

United States recognized and declared that Armistice Veteran Affairs, Veterans Day is a day for honoring Day be a national holiday - and not until 1954 was the

veterans directly in front of us right now, not a day

name changed to Veterans Day by none other than

that belongs to veterans.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower. While Armistice Day celebrated the end of WW1, Veterans Day celebrates veterans of all wars.

In Sand Springs there are many ways to respect and care for veterans through many organizations. If you are looking for a way to support local veterans,

In 1968 the Uniform Holiday Bill ensured three-

please consider reaching out to one of the below

day weekends for federal employees. In 2001 the

organizations to see how you and your family can help

week of Nov. 11th through Nov. 17th was designated

today.

14 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

AMERICAN LEGION BILLIE A. HALL POST 17

If you would like to be involved in this organization, please call 918-928-7685.

Located at 500 N Main St, Sand Springs, the American Legion Bille A. Hall Post 17 has many events and gatherings to help raise money and awareness for veterans. On Thursdays they host a Bingo Night with a crew of veterans to man the bingo floor, a women’s quilting group on Tuesday Mornings who work hard to continue traditions, they help countless charities, and even give a few scholarships to the sandite students!

To get involved with this organization, please call (918) 245-0000.

VETS THAT MATTER Vets that Matter is a group of men and women in Sand Springs and the Tulsa Metro area who are committed to providing connections to resources for our young and older veterans in or out of service.

Their purpose is to fight for the lives of veterans who

We are proud to live in a town that respects, honors, celebrates and strives to provide the best resources for the veterans of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Now we take a moment to say thank you.

Thank you for your hard work, dedication and sacrifice to our country. Because of you, we can truly live in the land of the free and home of the brave.

are still fighting the war, even after they return home.

Vets that Matter give a hand up by building on biblical values and encouraging personal growth.

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 15

PRATT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GRADE 4 What is the best Thanksgiving Dessert?

Kenize, Grade 4 "I think sweet potato pie with marsh Mello all over the top with a buttery spring roll and a movie is the best thanksgiving dessert!"

Conner, Grade 4 "The best thanksgiving dessert is turkey. It is juicy and good for you. It is yummy!"

Domenique, Grade 4 "My favorite Thanksgiving dessert is pumpkin pie my grand dad cooks it homemade. It haves whip cream and some strawberries and blueberries. Mush the berries and put them on the top."

Why is it important to have a day of thanks?

Lila, Grade 4 "It's important to have one because think about when you were born.

That is important so that is why it's important."

KRISTINA, Grade 4 "It is important to have thanks because it giving you an opportunity to thank all the people for what they gave to you."

JETT, Grade 4 "I feel the most thankful when people say good job after my race.

I'm thankful I have parents and family in my life and have a lot of friends in my life."

16 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

LIMESTONE TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY GRADE 3

We Are Sand Springs Magazine wants to include all Sandites in the creation of our community’s magazine. And so, we invite all Sand Springs Elementary students to participate in our We Are Thankful prompt exercise. Select entries from each school will be included in the center spread of the magazine and ALL entries will be posted online through our website and social media platforms. We are Thankful for YOU! Go Sandites!

LIMESTONE TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY GRADE 4

ANGUS VALLY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GRADE 4

What is the best Thanksgiving Dessert?

GAGE, Grade 4

"Stuffing is the best Thanksgiving dinner. Stuffing is easy to chew and tastes really really good. Stuffing is easy to make and fills you up fast. Stuffing is good for you and is cheap. That is why I love stuffing. "

bailey, Grade 4

"Pumpkin pie and chocolate pie are the best deserts. Pumpkin is good for anything. Chocolate is really good, i eat it every day. Pumpkin pie is really soft. And chocolate is really routh. That is why i love chocolate and pumpkin pie. "

When do you feel the most Thankful?

Leo, Grade 4

"I'm thankful for my family.

Because we love each other.

We throw axes ninja stars too.we also play laser tag Then we give jokes the end."

Leighton, Grade 4

"I am thankful for my family and dogs. I am thankful for them because my family cares about me.and my dogs protect me my dogs are sweet and cuddly one is crazy but the other is not.My family is sweet ,kind and there when i am sad. I love them whenever i'm in need they are there.I am thankful for my family and dogs."

ADDELYN, Grade 4

"When I feel most thankful is when I'm with my family. When we go to the park together and play soccer.

We all play yahtzee together.

We enjoy having family movie nights. I enjoy spending time with my family. Love Addy!"

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 17

Hey Sand Springs, it’s that time of year again, you know what we mean. No… it’s not the Pumpkin Spice Latte, or the Peppermint Mocha… well, it could be. It’s Shop Small Business Saturday!

3.

You Matter More: Everytime you purchase anything you are placing your influence into the community.

Your influence says, I choose you. When you choose not to purchase something, you are putting your influence somewhere else; you are basically voting with your wallet.

Every year we are reminded that small businesses need Your purchase holds a greater weight with small businesses. our support. But in Sand Springs, we know this year round.

Supporting small businesses allows for them to continue

We know you don’t need more reasons to shop local in all

giving the amazing customer service small businesses are

areas of Sand Springs, Prattville, and beyond, but we just

known for.

couldn’t resist: Vote with your wallet during this time of year, and

1.

Local Economic Stimulus: When more dollars are spent

throughout all year long. Vote for your next door neighbors,

at locally owned businesses more of the dollars are

vote for the parents of your kids friend at school, vote for

kept locally. Small business owners usually buy from locally

Sand Springs.

owned businesses as well, keeping money flowing through the community rather than being sent away from it.

2.

To aid in your shopping local, this year WeAreSandSprings.com will be hosting a place where

Local Business Owners Invest in the Community: Local all local business owners can share their specials, deals, businesses are, naturally, owned by people that live in

offers, discounts, or anything else they want to share with

the community. People that live in the community and are

the community for Small Business Saturday! Head over to

not likely to uproot themselves and their businesses are

wearesandsprings.com/sandites-shop-small or scan the QR

invested in the long term success of the community.

code below and see all the listings!

PSST… to all local business owners, to make this work, we need to know your specials, deals, offers, discounts, and offerings this season! Head over to wearesandsprings.com/sandites-shop-small and fill out the form on the page to get your FREE listing! Let’s make it the easiest season for Sand Springs to support all the locally owned businesses that make Sand Springs GREAT!

18 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

SCAN TO SEE LISTINGS!

LOCAL EVENTS IN SAND SPRINGS

nov. 6

DEC. 4 & 5

ALL THINGS CRAFTY

SCROOGE’S CHRISTMAS

ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR

DEC 4TH 2PM & 7PM;

9AM - 3PM Case Community Center, Sand Springs An arts and crafts fair, hosting vendors from all over Oklahoma.

nov. 11 GSA-CHOIR PERFORMANCE VETERAN'S DAY 1:00PM TO 1:30PM 2nd Grade Choir Performance for Veterans Day - Heroes in Our Neighborhood

nov. 13 SHOP SMALL HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Downtown Sand Springs Several stores will be open for shopping throughout the day,

2 ANGELS TOY RUN 10:00AM CHECK-IN 6305 W. 40th St. Tulsa, OK The run is open to anyone including Hot Rods, Classic Cars, Customs, Jeeps and Motorcycles.

There is no entry fee please just bring new, unwrapped toys for the toy run! For more info, please visit www. churchthatmatters. com/2angelstoyrun

nov. 13 DEC. 13 WINDOW PAINTING SCAVANGER HUNT Daily throughout the City of Sand Springs by the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce

SSPS Auditorium (4th & Garfield)

DEC. 11 CHRISTMAS AT THE PARK KEYSTONE STATE PARK 1926 HWY 151 SAND SPRINGS, OK 74063 Keystone State Park hosts Christmas at the Park just in time for

DEC. 1 DEC. 31

all the exciting winter

ART OF GIVING CHRISTMAS TREE DISPLAY SAND SPRINGS CULTURAL & HISTORICAL MUSEUM The Art of Giving Christmas Tree Display is put on by the Sand Springs Museum. Please check the Museum for hours of operation.

Sand Springs state

DEC. 3

deC. 20 jan. 2

check store hours for operation.

DEC 5TH 2PM

NOV. 14

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS CHRISTMAS PARADE 7 PM, DOWNTOWN SAND SPRINGS Our theme for the 2021 parade will be: “THE JOY OF GIVING”. Christmas is a time for giving and receiving gifts. Making someone’s life BRIGHTER during the holidays is a gift for the giver and receiver.

festivities. Bring the whole family to this park for a variety of holiday-themed events.

Guests are invited to pose for photos with Santa, browse the onsite vendors, munch on caramel apples and create winter crafts.

SSPS CHRISTMAS BREAK

DEC. 21 WREATH LAYING CEREMONY AND VIGIL 12PM - 1:30PM, VIGIL UNTIL DUSK Charles Page Triangle Park

Editor’s Note: Due to the ongoing pandemic and weather events, event listings (including date, time, and location) are subject to change. Please contact the event organizer directly with questions.

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 19

Grateful Giving

IN SAND SPRINGS

Around the holidays community service moves to the top of the to do list for many families and organizations in Sand Springs. Sharing with each other and supporting the families and individuals in our community is what holidays are really all about for Sandites! This year, take time in your schedule to serve the Sand Springs community with your family and make a difference in the lives around you. Keep the holiday cheer spreading by having a grateful and giving heart. In addition to volunteering another way to do that is by sharing other volunteer opportunities. Send your service project and/or opportunity to give to info@wearesandsprings.com or tag us in your opportunity online.

Below are just a few of the service opportunities that are available this holiday season: UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

CANDLELIGHT

Thanksgiving day, November 25th

december 1st

11PM - UNTIL ALL

tear down, crowd

MEALS ARE OUT

management, traffic

Volunteers needed

control

are to: Deliver

Contact Matt

meals!

Barnett for more

Families and

information:

individuals can sign

Matt.Barnett@

up when they arrive

hillspring.tv

SINGALONG

Volunteers needed are to: Set up and

and they can deliver to the homes.

SALVATION ARMY: DAY OF RINGING

CHRISTMAS PARADE

SHOP LOCAL FEST

You can sign up for shifts of 2 hours, 4 hours, or 6 hours

december 3rd

december 11th

Volunteers needed

Volunteers needed

are to: Help with

are to: Set up and

traffic & lining up

tear down, crowd

floats

management,

Contact Debbie

Traffic control

Noble for more

Contact Mary

information:

Eubanks for more

danobles@aep.com

information

Volunteers needed are to: Ring Bells for the Day of Ringing. Red Kettles are placed in front of participating businesses where you can volunteer to adopt as many bell ringing locations as you can!

Contact Lt. Zachary Good:

zachary.good@uss. salvationarmy.org

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Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa patron saint of Children. It is said that he gave away Claus right down Broadway and 2nd Streeeeet!

Christmas Parades, also known as Santa Claus Parades (or in our case, Festival of light) are the official opening of the Christmas Season.

Lights, dancing, candy, floats, and bands playing Christmas music that fills the chilly air. But why did Christmas parades start?

all his inherited wealth and traveled along the countryside helping the poor and sick. St. Nicholas’ reputation quickly spread around the world, and made its first appearance in American popular culture towards the end of the 18th century. A man by the name of Sinter Klaas hand carved and distributed wood carvings of St. Nicholas at the New York Historical Society annual meeting. And

First things first, we have to address the thus the image and character of Santa Claus was elephant in the room - Santa Claus. Santa Claus widely recognized and spread.

- also known as Saint Nicholas or Kris Kringle is a character that is mainly associated with a jolly man

Now as we enter the Christmas season Santa

in red who delivers toys to good girls and boys. Claus is the poster character for all things jolly and However his story stretches back all the way to bright - such as Christmas Parades! Christmas the third century, when Saint Nicholas became the Parades are widely known and put on in the

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United States. The Christmas Parade is a direct descendant of late Medieval and Renaissance revivals of Roman Triumphs filled with loud music, dancing, banners and ended with the leader riding in a chariot pulled by two horses.

Children of today now wait in anticipation for Santa Claus to ride through the streets on the last float to sound off his loud joyful laugh and reminding children to be good because:

“He's making a list And checking it twice; Gonna find out Who's naughty & nice Santa Claus is coming to town He sees you when you're sleeping He knows when you're awake He knows if you've been bad or good So be good for goodness sake!"

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 23

Then and Now: Hall of Fame for the SSEF In 1988, the Montie Box Company celebrated its 30th year in business and held a birthday party of sorts where the “gifts” from attendees were to be something to give back in support of the Sand Springs schools. From a humble idea the Sand Springs Education Foundation was born into what now raises over $65,000 in grants every year to assist our teachers in their grand ideas to educate the next generation in the best way possible.

The SSEF’s mission is to be a private partner to the Sand Springs Public Schools, and help to support creative and innovative projects that cannot be funded by local, state or federal means.

Excerpt from SSEF Foundation Flyer

Sand Springs has a myriad of community members who have come and gone to do great things. The Sand Springs Hall of Fame accepts 2 - 3 nominees every year for their outstanding citizenship and involvement with Sand Springs.

Each member then serves three years assisting in the development, duties and responsibilities of the Sand Springs Education Foundation Board. In 2021 the Sand Springs Hall of Fame made a move from the Ed Dubie Fieldhouse to Bright Morning Farms.

This year alone the SSEF has given out 60 grants, in the time that the SSEF has operated it has raised and given over 1 million dollars in grants. And their Hall of Fame has grown to an Sand Springs Education Foundation, 1991 24 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021

outstanding 71 inductees since 1990.

Raising this kind of money is no easy feat but with generous donors, an annual golf tournament and Hall of Fame induction dinner the board strives to make it all happen. Over the years grants have been awarded to music programs who need to purchase instruments, smart board installs into classrooms and help exercise programs get off the ground.

Any and all teachers within the Sand Springs Public Schools district can apply for grants. During the fall semester, the SSEF board gathers to go over each grant application meticulously, and then delivers the grants during the week of Thanksgiving.

If you or someone you know would like to apply for a grant, or donate to the SSEF, please visit the Sand Springs Education Foundation website.

SSEF History Presentation

Photos from 2021 SSEF Events

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FREE PAGE

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A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens, presents an elderly miser by the name of Ebenezer Scrooge.

Scrooge is visited by three spirits - Christmas past,

1.

Hit the craft closet with all ya got! Spread out the crayons, glue, scissors, construction paper

and more to make your very own ornament for your

present and future. After their visits he is transformed

Christmas tree! Whether you include words like Joy

into a much kinder and gentler man.

and Peace - or a family photo - it's sure to look stunning on your very own Christmas tree at home. Have extra

The majority of us have probably watched A Christmas Carol a time or two and are familiar with the idea of a “scrooge”. But for those who aren’t - a scrooge is a person who is unwilling to give to others.

Words with the same meaning are miserly and stingy. In your lifetime you may have met a scrooge

supplies? Create an ornament for someone special remember it’s the thought that counts!

2.

Set your sights for the kitchen - because that’s where we're going next! Check out an

old cookbook or Pinterest for an inspirational recipe

personally, or even had the joy of watching a scrooge

for a yummy sweet treat. After baking with your

transform into a kinder and gentler person.

kiddos, family or friend, take your baked goods - after testing them of course - to an elderly couple in your

If you're feeling a little “scrooge-ish” this year,

neighborhood, church or community! Sharing your

here's a few ideas to kick in the Sandite spirit to enjoy

hard work with the Sand Springs community always

the holidays this year!

brings about a warm and joyous feeling.

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3.

Grab a journal and write about the things in

new faces, visiting with loved ones, or visiting with someone

your life that you have control over! There are

from your neighborhood, church, or community who is lonely

lots of things that are outside of our control, but the

this season to spread Sandite cheer. The more Sandite

things we do have in our control (behavior, choosing

cheer you spread, the more you’ll feel!

thoughts) allow us to steer the direction of our life.

4.

Take a walk! Fresh air along with mild exercise allows for our minds to stop focusing on the

problems we are facing and start to look at the big

7.

And as Scrooge taught us: “I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live

in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me.”

picture.

Feelin’ a little less scrooge-y now? Enjoy the holidays

5.

Give to a Friend - Feelin’ energized yet? Be

by indulging the town of Sand Springs, giving to your

the opposite of a scrooge and explore the

community, and spending time taking care of yourself this

abundance of gift options in downtown Sand Springs’

holiday season.

own local businesses! Find something for anyone in your life (or someone new!) at local businesses, owned

Want to share with us what you are

by members of the Sandite community who do a happy dance with every sale, and give back to the community while giving to others!

6.

The Gift of Time - As we move through our busy

doing through the holidays to keep the spirit of Christmas alive and well? Tag

day-to-day lives, it’s easy to overlook the greatest

us in your photos on Instagram and

Capture town of Sand gift of all - TIME with our eachbeautiful other. The Sandite spiritSprings is alive and share it with the world by entering the Weare are Sand Springs: Sand Springs Landscape Photos Contest. Pull out your camera wherever we together - whether it’s family, friends, or

Facebook - we’ll see ya there!

whether that’s your phone or your DSL, and take a shot at getting your photograph in new acquaintances, spending time with one another keeps the We are Sand Springs Magazine, and posted online to our social media pages! We Christmas in our hearts. Give the gift of time by smiling at are beyond excited to see the keen eye of the citizens of Sand Springs and bring to life the brilliant landscapes of Sand Springs Oklahoma.

SUBMIT YOUR BEST SAND SPRINGS LANDSCAPE PHOTO INTO THIS YEAR’S LANDSCAPE PHOTO CONTEST PRESENTED BY WE ARE SAND SPRINGS MAGAZINE! • Get your photo featured in the November issue of We are Sand Springs Magazine • Post your photo on social media and tag us @wearesandsprings • Submit your photos to info@wearesandsprings.com Winners will be announced via social media on November 1, 2021, and will have their photo printed in the We are Sand Springs Magazine that is distributed to every home in Sand Springs!

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 29

HAPPY L I TTLE RE I N D E E R GA ME S! We wanted to do something fun for

We would like to give a big shoutout to

the holidays in this magazine but couldn’t

Myers Marketing Management for helping

quite put our finger on what to do. In

bring Reindeer Games to life. Myers

a planning meeting with our parent

Marketing Management is dedicated to

company Myers Marketing Management

Sand Springs and is the official sponsor

the idea came up to develop a game that

for the Reindeer Games this edition of the

Sandites of all ages would enjoy and be

magazine. “We love Sand Springs and all

able to participate in and boy were there

of the adventures that can be found in our

some wild ideas flying around. Ultimately,

sweet little community! There is no place

we knew that WHATEVER we landed on

like it and we are excited to see what

it had to be in the true nature of Sand

everyone will do with Reindeer Games this

Springs, friendly and genuine. insert,

holiday season.”, Danielle Myers- CEO of

Reindeer Games!

Myers Marketing Management

This Reindeer was created to be

Myers Marketing Management (MMM)

the Sandite Sidekick for all seasonal

is a full service marketing firm that began

festivities. Dinners, hikes, shopping,

right here in Sand Springs. The team at

landscaping, cooking, decorating, coffee

MMM now serves businesses throughout

dates, game nights, fishing, and anything

the state of Oklahoma. They specialize

else that makes your heart sing this

in partnering with organizations that

season Sandites. Whether you cut him out

are focused on growth. This partnership

and carry him along or you customize how

focuses on the development and execution

he will travel with you, he is yours to make

of strategies designed to accomplish

memories with. We do want to see what

defined goals. To learn more about the

you and Mr. Reindeer have been up to so

service offered by Myers Marketing

we do ask that you tag us (We Are Sand

Management visit them online at

Springs) in your photos on Facebook or

MyersMM.com.

Instagram.

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Say hello to the newest edition to your holiday adventures! Simply cut out your reindeer friend, give him a name, take a photo while on a Sand Springs adventure, and tag us in your post!

Check out the Calendar of Events in this edition of the We are Sand Springs Magazine on page 19!

November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 31

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