2022 May We Are Sand Springs Magazine

Congratulations Senior Class of 2022!

2 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

04

Letter from the Editor

06

Letter From County Commissioner Karen Keith

09

The Sandite 20: Q&A with Parks Director Jeff Edwards

13

Calendar of Events

14

Where Are They Now? Featuring Frank Peck

16

CPHS Senior Highlight & Graduation Celebration

18

Teacher Appreciation Shoutouts

20

Me n's He a l th M onth He a r f rom Local E xp e rt s

22

Volunteer Opportunities Open to the Public

23

New to the Scene: Elite Training Sand Springs

24

A Sandite Summer

28

Landscaping Tips From Local Pro

29

School Program Spotlight:

30

Sandites in Action: National

Here are a few of our Favorite Things

Life Applications for Students

Military Appreciation Month

CONTENTS

A Sandite Sumer pg. 30

The thing I love most about Sand Springs is that while Sand Springs is changing all the time it stays the same. We have had so much development in our community over the last 10 years of our team at Myers Marketing Management publishing the We Are Sand Springs magazine. It's been exciting to be involved and witness the transformation as a whole.

We have seen much needed road construction (soooo much road construction), an entire Park system renovation, neighborhoods have been developed, commercial zones have been created, the railroads have been brought to new life, old buildings have seen new faces and are swarming with fresh energy. We have seen new schools and old schools renewed. And even now we are seeing decades of hard work come to fruition with the construction of interstates, levee repairs, State Park renovation funding beginning this summer. There's truly not enough room on this page for me to list everything that has happened and that is currently being developed in our wonderful community.

As I mentioned, although we have all these improvements going on in our community the one thing that never changes.. is a heart to serve.

Our community is built upon philanthropy and charity and kindness and welcoming. I love that Sand Springs remains Sand Springs no matter what business comes to town. We are proud to be Sandites!!! We are proud to be We Are Sand Springs.

- Danielle Myers Send us a letter or email: 118 N Main St Sand Springs, OK 74063 info@wearesandsprings.com • 918-521-1810 4 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

Warm weather has arrived in Sand Springs and Sandites couldn't be more thrilled! This time of year is full of newness and this edition of We Are Sand Springs is celebrating newness in all of its splendor. Join us in celebrating our community while also honoring the core of our town, philanthropy.

From volunteer opportunities to new business and even a fresh take on men’s health we enjoyed putting this edition together for you.

Congratulations to the Class of 2022! You can find your Senior on the pages throughout this magazine.

n I Live

. e n i h s n u S the Go Sandites!

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 5

SUMMER HAPPENINGS A LETTER FROM DISTRICT 2 TULSA COUNTY COMMISSIONER: KAREN KEITH

Spring and summer tend to be very busy times throughout Tulsa County, and this year is no exception. Especially in Sand Springs, where the County has many projects coming to fruition that will make huge impacts.

Early this summer we will finish major improvements to the lower level at Chandler Park. I am so excited to roll these changes out to the public and can’t wait to throw a big party so everyone can come out and see what a phenomenal, fun and inviting place Chandler is becoming. What’s more, I hope we all get to see our beloved Chandler Park in some shots in the film “Killers of the Flower Moon” when it’s released later this year as crews visited and filmed in the park last summer.

Another major project I have to highlight is the completion of the Gilcrease Expressway, completion of which is imminent. Crews have done a fantastic job on this major effort, constructing 22 bridges and 5 miles of four-lane roadway. Even better, it’s going to be done on time (and maybe a little early if the weather cooperates)! I want to extend my deepest thanks to the Sand Springs Chamber for their relentless work through the OneVoice campaign to get this project done. Without your advocacy this project wouldn’t be so close to the finish line.

And one more project update. It’s a biggie and the one that I am proudest of—we will break ground on the new levee system in early 2023! This past January, we received word that the federal government had fully funded the project. As you no doubt recall, it’s taken years of effort from Senators Inhofe and Lankford, other members of our federal delegation, Todd Kilpatrick our Levee 6 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

Commissioner, the Corps, and the Tulsa Regional Chamber for their years of inclusion on the ONEVOICE federal agenda. Currently, the levee rebuild is in the pre-engineering and design phase that lays out the scope of work getting the project ready for groundbreaking.

Now, on to some other topics like the hot events of the season in Sand Springs! One of my very favorite is the Herbal Affair & Festival. This year’s was no exception. I loaded up like I do every year and enjoyed walking and talking to everyone out there. If you haven’t gone, mark your calendar for next year. You won’t regret it!

As spring continues to move along and we get into summer, I am looking forward to numerous fresh and scrumptious meals at my favorite Sand Springs restaurant, Little Venice. I am also very likely to get myself into trouble shopping at Okie Spice. I just can’t help myself!

To walk off all those calories, head west to the Ancient Forest and enjoy the trails and gorgeous new facilities.

Lastly, I’d like to give my heartfelt thanks to the city leadership in Sand Springs. Throughout all my years as District 2 Commissioner, you have been consistently a great partner with the County when it comes to projects and improvements of any size.

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 7

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8 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

THE Q&A SANDITE 20: 20 Questions With Parks Director Jeff Edwards

What's one thing you love about Sand Springs?

- One thing I love about Sand Springs is that it’s my hometown. So I think when you have a connection like that, you're really passionate about it.

What are the services of the Sand Springs Parks Department provides for our town?

- Everything from outdoor recreation, hiking, trails, playgrounds, sports, golf, senior services, museum, anything outdoor adventurous or indoor recreation related.

Where are the offices located for the parks department?

- The Parks Department offices are located in the Case Community Building.

What's your "why" behind working at the Parks Department? Why do you do it?

- I want to give the community things that I wish I had growing up.

What is Sand Springs On the Go? - Sand Springs On the Go is the 2022 geo bond. It's going to encompass a lot of city services. Really gonna concentrate on parks as well. And we're looking forward to the public getting to vote on that. We can't tell them how to vote. We can just encourage them to vote, but there's a lot of good things in that package that would

This month we took a trip to see Jeff Edwards of the Sand Springs Parks Department! We had 20 questions to ask Jeff about his love for Sand Springs, what the Parks Department does for the city, his favorite part about his job, and

really benefit the community and a lot of kids and adults alike.

Can you share with us about something new that is coming for sand Springs?

whether or not he whistles while he works!

- We are going to work on a new trail at the Keystone

Check out some of the questions and answers

to adopt a philosophy of including the wildlife there with

below. To view the full interview, scan the QR code with your phone and watch the video on our website, www.wearesandsprings.com

nation forest. We hope this fall, and we're going to try that trail edition. So think of it as a Savannah area.

True or false you whistle while you work?

- False.

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 9

10 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

THE DIRTY DEED

WE’VE GOT THE

GOOD STUFF ORDER ONLINE AT RIBCRIB.COM 450 W WEKIWA RD | 918.241.5200

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 11

NEW TO THE SCENE

12 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

LOCAL EVENTS IN SAND SPRINGS

MAY 1

JUNE 11

CASE COMMUNITY

13TH ANNUAL

PARK- SPLASH PAD

EURO MOTOR

OPENING DAY

EXTRAVAGANZA 8AM - 6PM

MAY 27 3D FLOWERS, MAKE

MAY 7 SS SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION-

& TAKE CLASS, DATE NIGHT BY AGITSI

JUNE 19

5:30 - 6:30 PM

FATHER'S DAY

CELEBRATE MOMS TOURNAMENT 8:30 AM

-

TYPROS SUSTAINABILITY

maY 30 MEMORIAL DAY

JUNE 21 FIRST DAY OF SUMMER 8 AM - 4 PM

CREW: EXPLORING THE KEYSTONE ANCIENT FOREST 10 AM

May 8 MOTHER'S DAY

JUNE 4

JUNE 24 COMMUNITY BLOCK

CHEROKEE BASKET

PARTY @ BOYD FIELD

WEAVING W/ JOSHUA

6 PM - 9 PM

COOPER BY AGITSI 2-6 PM

July 3 25TH ANNUAL

MAY 10-28 FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH MEMORIAL DAY FLOWER SALE MON-SAT

JUNE 7 GLOW THROW @ NOBLE

SSPS- LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

SHOW @ CASE COMMUNITY PARK

AXE EVERY TUES & FRI

-

6 PM - CLOSE

6TH ANNUAL RIVERFEST

10 AM - 6 PM

MAY 19

SERTOMA FIREWORKS

JUNE 10 COMMUNITY BLOCK PARTY @ PAGE PARK 6 PM - 9 PM

Editor’s Note: Weather may affect the times and dates of events, please contact the event organizer directly with questions.

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 13

Where Are They Now? Featuring Frank Peck This month we had the pleasure of sitting down with Frank Peck, one of the newest inductees into the Sand Springs Hall of Fame. Peck shared with us some of his experiences while in the Sand Springs school system and how those experiences shaped his life for a thriving career in accounting and business counseling.

Peck is a CPA by training and has been working in accounting and business counseling for the last 35 years.

A little over 20 years ago he founded Peck and Associates health-care accounting and consulting firm. Peck does just about every kind of business operation you can do in the healthcare industry including billing, payroll, financial analysis and so much more.

But let’s take a moment to back up and see where Peck started and how his career at SSPS shaped his life for such an amazing career. Peck spent his entire elementary to high school career in the Sand Springs School District - making him a Sandite through and through. A large influence in his schooling was sports - specifically baseball and wrestling! He remembers playing tee-ball, having a paper route, and mowing neighbors' yards growing up, all the while meeting and falling in love with an incredible community. “My 5th grade teacher had a big impact on me as a person and my development and my enthusiasm,” said Peck. Growing up, Peck also said he,”... used to love going to the library and picking out books with his brother!” (The building that is now the Sand Springs Cultural Museum).

As he got a little older and got into high school he remembers what a great influence his church community was at Broadway Baptist and remembered his great wrestling coach and team. His wrestling team was a state championship-winning team in 1971. Peck raved about the team and was so excited to see everyone at the Hall of Fame Banquet. Peck recalled learning about what kind of attitude to have when you are losing, or winning and that he was so grateful to have a team and coaches that encouraged him during the tough and the great times. He also shared: “When I was a senior I was student council president and the faculty rep I worked with was George Paden, and he was a great mentor to me.”

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Looking back at his experiences overall, Peck shared that he grew to love his community and that the people in Sand Springs were so good to him and his brothers. “It was really great to grow up there,” said Peck.

As we wrapped up our interview with Peck, he shared a few words of wisdom for the generations of Sandites to come: “Perseverance was a great thing for me. There’s always in life a lot of discouragements and things that don't work out like you hoped. I was fortunate to have people that encouraged me to persevere, that led me to believe that I was a person of worth and they believed in me in spite of discouragement in the moment. I think that’s important. I also learned a lot from being a part of a team, with teammates that pushed me and caused me to be better than I would have been without them. Valuing those relationships and those people I think is important because they make a difference in your life.”

When you see Frank Peck, make sure you give him a warm handshake and tell him congratulations on being one of the newest members of the Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame.

You can find a full video interview on our website by scanning the QR code! >>

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 15

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Congratulations to the graduating class of 2022.

Many of you have attended school together since Pre-K while others joined the class later in years.

Regardless of when your memories began, you each have developed relationships that will last a lifetime We congratulate you on completing the step in your educational journey and preparing yourself for the careers ahead of you. There is nowhere you can't go from here with a little bit of Sandite pride and commitment. We are confident that this class will make all of us Sandites Proud!

Think right and be courageous Class of 2022!

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 17

TEACHER APPRECIATION SHOUTOUTS 18 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

Mrs.Tera Elledge, Thank you for making Landon's 5th grade a fun & memorable year.

-Lynn Bryant

Mrs Carter, A big thanks for making the move to a new school so easy for Shelby. You made her feel special. You are a treasure.

- JoAnn Singley

Mrs. Schmidt, Building my 1st graders confidence in reading!

She's great!!

- Sara & Claire Ward

MORE SHOUT OUTS HERE!

Amanada Webster, Thank you for being amazing!!

- Rebecca Gorsuch

Mrs. Brettany Blalock, We love Mrs. Blalock!

Bennett has had the special opportunity to be with her for two years now. Not only has Bennett shown amazing growth this second year, but Mrs. Blalock handles every situation in such a loving, patient, and caring way. We will never forget her!

- Sarah Farrow Megan Cabe, Mrs. Cabe is not only super smart (teaches math & science to 5th graders at Limestone), but she finds a way to really connect to EVERY child & makes them feel special, loved and smart.

No matter how “challenging” the student is. She is a true blessing and our family is so lucky to have had her teach all four of our children.

Her impact will be life-long.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Mrs. Cabe. You are so appreciated!!!

- Stacy Clipp

Mrs. Ward, We have had one of our best years yet this year and I have to thank Mrs. Ward at NFAA for that!

Watching Travis grow and come out of his shell a bit more has been such a joy. Thank you Mrs. Ward!

- Tasha Smith

Stephanie McAlister, Best Over All Teacher !!!!

Thank You for a Fantastic year in your class. - Love Allison Patrick

Andrea Campfield Chalres Page High School Drama department, Very amazing teacher loved getting to have her as my teacher for 3 years! I still come back to help with certain events & will continue doing that.

- Bryson Jackson

Mrs. McElyea, Mrs. McElyea cares so much about her students and strives to make them feel loved.

- Megan Lea McDonald

Mrs. Hilligoss, Thank you for everything you do for the 1st graders at Limestone and for my son in particular. You’re a great teacher and I’m so happy to have you teaching my son!

- Kari Huff

Mrs. Taylor Patterson, Thank you so much for loving and taking such care of Blaise during his fight against brain cancer this year. You went above and beyond for us. You have a special place in our hearts!!

— The Schrepels

Jenny Owen, I love how you reach your students through your love of kids. You are an awesome teacher and even more awesome daughter! I love you immensely!

- Mom

Mrs Medina, She is so sweet to the kids and she has taught my daughter so much!!! Her reading has improved and she now has such a love for reading. She truly cares about her students.

- Allison Morris

Ms Perdon, She is amazing, understanding yet firm!

- Kim Haley

Mrs. Johnson (8th Grade Forensic Science), Message: Thank you for guiding my daughter in both STEM and Forensic Science. You are one of her favorite teachers. Even when she has a bad day, I hear about your class.

- Tiffany Southard

Mr. Wright, Charles Page' Best Band Teacher - Debbie Smith Cain

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 19

Men's Health Month We all know that our health has many layers and for Men’s Health Month we have called on local experts to talk about each of those layers: MIND, BODY, SOUL and NUTRITION! These Sandites did not disappoint - read closely as we dive into Fitness, Nutrition, Spiritual Health, and Mental Health.

Ladies don’t be discouraged - many of these principals can be applied to your health as well!

You can find further information and full articles on each topic by scanning the QR codes with the camera on your phone.

FITNESS

Nutrition

From Loren Beesley Owner and Master Trainer at Elite Fitness Sand Springs

From Krystal Dunham, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at The Mother Road Dietitian

One of the biggest barriers for men to enter a gym, workout program, or training program is TIME. The second is money. While time and money are realistic concerns, your physical health should be the ultimate concern! There are a few things that you should be aware of as you take mental note of your health during Men’s health month: While it may be a topic most don’t talk about, sedentary jobs, processed foods, and high sugar diets all play into low testosterone in men.

Men tend to carry fat around their midsection which can be a key player in a variety of health problems and can affect testosterone levels.

Most men are susceptible to Prostate Cancer, so it’s smart to get checked every year when you turn 40. Low activity, and poor nutrition can lead to bad heart health.

Get outside and be active for at least 30 minutes a day to decrease the chances of heart disease.

To make a change you should find ACCOUNTABILITY! This will promote drive, stress relief and help you reach your goals! At Elite Fitness, or at home, its time to start taking care of your physical health!

Nutrition is one of the key factors of men’s health. It's important for men to be self aware when it comes to their relationship to food and nutrition.

Read more here

20 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

You can’t always tell if someone is living with an eating disorder by their looks alone. Not only do eating disorders impact the physical and mental health of an individual, but they also disrupt behaviors, thoughts, and feelings about eating or eating-related behaviors. If left untreated, they can cause damage to the structure and function of the cardiovascular, skeletal, and digestive systems.

In males, eating disorders may be accompanied by mental health disorders including Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and/or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I often refer to these as an eating disorder’s travel companion.

My goal is to help individuals heal their relationship with food and their bodies. If you believe that you or someone you know may be struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to reach out for care.

Read more here

Spiritual Health From Seth Swindall Pastor of Church on The Move West

Mental Health

There is a power in small. The bible tells us to not despise the day of small beginnings.

Many of us think we have to take a giant leap, institute a significant change, or hit a home-run that will result in overnight success and health. But here is another truth you need to embrace. You will never BE what you have not BECOME. The word BECOME speaks to the idea of a process.

You want to BE healthy. Well, you are going to have to take small consistent steps to BECOME what you want to BE. Embrace the small and humble steps and make a commitment to do something you have never done before and become a healthier man!

Maybe it’s a visit to the gym, the doctor, a church, a counselor, or some other step not listed. Again, just do something. It won’t happen overnight but if you want to grow in health and give the gift of a healthy you to the world around you...you are going to have to start somewhere.

As we encourage people to move and grow in their spiritual health, there are three things we encourage them in their movement.

1. Pursue Jesus 2. Face Yourself 3. Move toward others I once had a friend tell me that to be healthy in 3 and unhealthy in 1 of these areas of health is like trying to drive a truck with a flat tire, you will never get where you need to go.

If you want a greater spiritual health in your life, taking these steps will eventually help you become spiritually healthy and mature. John 15 tells us that apart from Jesus we cannot do anything of significance.

From D.A. Myers of Good Work Counseling

Read more here

Mental health still has a negative stigma around it, even with the mental health pandemic the country went through for the last two years. For men, typically we have been taught to “deal with it” or “suck it up,” which only adds to the taboo nature of men’s mental health. What’s more, is that while there aren’t different types of mental health for men and women (ie. There isn’t men’s depression and women’s depression) the ways in which symptoms are expressed are vastly different.

Men are statistically 4 times more likely to commit suicide than women; and part of the issue is symptom identification. Identifying our own mental health as men is far more effective than relying on the people around us to tell us when we are not OK. Applying the 1% principle to our mental health is a practical way to approach self betterment without becoming overwhelmed. The goal for each day is to do something for your mental health and well being that is 1% better than yesterday, for instance: • Actually take that lunch break • Reach out to a trusted friend for a coffee • Trust someone a little more than yesterday • Schedule 1 session with a counselor Great mental health, just as in all things, is made up of small, easily accomplished, daily steps. Each day do one single thing for your mental health, and by the end of the year you will put yourself 365% further towards your goals.

Read more here May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 21

Volunteer Opportunities In Sand Springs we have the honor and privilege of being

goodsamaritanhealth.org or call 918-710-4222

home to so many amazing churches. Each of the churches have a multitude of ways they serve the community of

Vets That Matter

Sand Springs. We wanted to shine a spotlight on outreach

What does this ministry do?

programs that provide the opportunity for anyone to

Vets That Matter is committed to providing connections

serve. Be encouraged to reach out and learn more about

and resources for our young and older veterans in or out of

these opportunities.

service. Don't get us wrong, we aren't giving handouts. We are giving a hand up in a way that not only builds on biblical

Church on the Move Outreach Ministry

values but demands personal growth. Helping to build a

What does this ministry do?

solid foundation for our veteran brother and sisters while

Our Outreach ministry serves a couple of our ministry

fortifying their families.

partners on the first Saturday of each month. The Spring

Who can help with this ministry?

serves women whose lives have been impacted by

Anyone! We have fundraisers throughout the year, we

domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human sex

serve breakfast on Saturday mornings, and anyone can

trafficking. Tulsa Hills Youth Ranch exists to bring healing

volunteer for help in these areas.

to the brains of traumatized youth and hope to their

If you want to help, you can contact President Andrew

caregivers.

Fisher, or visit www.vetsthatmatter.org.

Who can help with this ministry?

On July 16, we will hold our annual Love Day and will have

Backpack Ministry

around 20-30 different opportunities to serve with local

What does this ministry do?

organizations and members in our community. Everyone is

This ministry packs lunches for those children in Sand

welcome to come and serve. There is a screening process

Springs Public Schools that don’t have access to regular

for volunteers wanting to serve at The Spring.

food over the weekend. They meet once a month to pack

For more information or questions, anyone can contact me

the bags and then the first Tuesday of every month they

at chadc@churchonthemove.com

deliver the bags.

Who can help with this ministry?

Good Samaritan Health Services

Anyone and everyone! It doesn’t take much to pack a bag,

What does this ministry do?

we set up an assembly line and fill each bag with the food

Good Samaritan began providing medical care for

and snacks required.

uninsured and underserved individuals in 1998. This service

Contact Matt Barnett at matt.barnett@hillspring.tv or visit

provides healthcare to those with no insurance. It ensures

www.hillspring.tv.

they have access to mobile health care clinics.

Who can help with this ministry?

With so many opportunities to volunteer your time in Sand

Anyone can help! You can start by filling out a volunteer

Springs, the community really embraces the founding

form online and you will be contacted by Good Samaritan.

principle of philanthropy. Be sure to get involved and give of

All applicants must be approved before helping at the

your time, because time is one of the most precious things

Church That Matters Clinic Location.

we have. When we give of our time to better Sand Springs,

For more information or to apply, you can visit www.

it always multiplies.

22 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

NEW TO THE SCENE

If you haven’t heard the buzz about the new training facility in town, let us be the first to fill you in on the business model that has those looking to shed their quarantine pounds fired up.

On January 3rd of 2022, Sand Springs local Loren Beesley opened the doors to Elite Training Sand Springs with a clear mission to make a difference. More specifically, Loren shared “Our mission is to help as many people as possible that are in need of developing a healthier lifestyle regardless of their goal or reason”, he adds, “Everyone should know that we are committed to you and your goals. We are here to make sure that you are held accountable. Together we will focus on reaching your goals safely and effectively. All exercises and nutrition are peer reviewed and backed by science”.

Beesley is certified through NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) and all trainers at Elite Training are required to be certified through an accredited school. Loren holds 5 certifications including Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Nutrition Coach, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Stretching and Flexibility Coach, and dotFIT Certified Nutrition Practitioner.

Elite Training Sand Springs offers private one on one personal training and nutrition coaching. This is the model that has everyone intrigued. No crowded gym or uncertainty on whether or not you are doing the right workouts with the right form. Loren is prepared to help no matter your goal including weight loss, muscle building, toning, flexibility, sports performance, corrective exercise, or improved general health.

Loren is available by appointments from 5:00 am- 9:00 pm every day. You can contact them by calling 918-393-4333, going to elitetrainingtulsa.com , or emailing Loren at loren@ elitetrainingtulsa.com

4 1 8 p l a z a c t , S a n d S p r i n g s , O K 74 0 6 3 • 9 1 8 - 3 9 3 - 4 3 3 3 May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 23

a Sandite Get pumped because summer is on the way! Is your family ready for adventure?! Start preparing by mapping out your summer plans and visiting some of the amazing places we have here in Sand Springs!

We hope you have an amazing summer Sandites - Make sure you share your summer adventures with us by tagging us online @wearesandsprings and using the hashtag #wearesandsprings.

activities

1. Keystone Lake

Keystone Lake is the perfect place to rent or bring your boats for water activities like fishing, boating, swimming, skiing and more! You can also fish, swim or have a picnic on one of the many beaches with tables and gazebos.

2. Jellystone park Jellystone park is just a short drive away and full of FUN! From slides and pools to kids summer camps and inflatable water toys your whole family will love this summer destination!

3. SKATES Rollertainment Get out on the floor with your friends and show them what you got during a night of rollerblading!

4. Sahoma Lanes Bowling Center Schedule a birthday party or make it a family game night at Sahoma Lanes Bowling Center.

5. Case Community Center Case Community Center has a full schedule every week of activities including aerobics, zumba, kickboxing and more. They also have a great splashpad your kids will love, and walking trails around the facility!

Summer attractions 1. Sand Springs Cultural & Historical Museum Visit our local museum for a look into the rich history of Sand Springs! There’s nothing like continuing education during the summer months.

2. Library Keep the fun going by visiting our local libraries for story time, new books, and fun kids activities like camps during the summer.

3. ZegART Studios Sign up for a fun painting class that the whole family can enjoy and make memories together!

4. The Canyon at Blackjack Ridge Call your friends up for a game of Golf at The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge, a pristine golf course right here in hills of Green Country.

5. Downtown Shopping Get your shopping shoes on and visit the triangle, aka downtown Sand Springs, for shopping at our many small businesses!

6. Meadow Lake Ranch Schedule a staycation at our very own Meadow Lake Ranch, with beautiful views, cozy rooms and activities that any couple, or family would enjoy.

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 25

a Sandite the great outdoors 1. Keystone Ancient Forest & State Park For those looking for an outdoor adventure, Keystone State Park has a lot to offer. Swimming, fishing, rock climbing, bouldering, hiking trails, boating, cabins, RV Parks, camping, dining and so much more!

2. Hiking Trails There are hiking trails all over the Sand Springs area!

Try visiting Childers Trail or Keystone Ancient Forest Loop > both have a great pathway for all experiences of hikers to enjoy!

3. Parks Chandler Park & Case Community Park both boast with Splash Pads that your kiddos will LOVE! Get those swim trunks on and get ready for make a SPLASH!

4. Sand Springs Lake Park Sand Springs Lake Park offers a bike trail, fishing, garden, open parking, picnic areas and trails for walking or running!

26 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

Summer food & beverage scene 1. Sweet treats - Sandlot Sno-Balls Take your date, kiddos, or friend group over to Sandlot Sno-Balls for a tasty cool treat with so many flavors that it’s pretty hard to beat!

- Braums & Big Dipper Cool off with a large ice cream cone from Braums or Big Dipper!

2. Pep in your step

- Boulder Coffee -

Sit and enjoy your summer morning at Boulder Coffee in Downtown Sand Springs, they have tasty new coffee flavors to try each week!

- Dutch Bros -

Get your coffee fix from one of the newest additions to the Sand Springs community, Dutch Bros - perfect for coffee on the go with their drive through!

- Ember Coffee and Roasting Co. Stop by Ember Coffee on your way out to Keystone lake for an extra pep in your… Swim!

3. Dining There are so many wonderful flavors here in Sand Springs! Try a new place this summer and let us know what you think!

• • • • • •

Winn’s on the Water Napolis Little Venice Mi Pueblo Mexican Restaurant Schlotzskys Pier 51 Marina May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 27

LANDSCAPING TIPS

From a Local Pro and friends is very important! You might even consider a water feature!

A well manicured lawn also goes a long way. A fresh mow and edging can do wonders for curb appeal. But what about those pesky brown spots seen in lawns all over Oklahoma…?

Brown Spots: Brown spots, dead spots, tough weed areas, dirt spots that just don’t seem to grow grass even though you continue to try year after year… are perfect places for landscaping to shine and bring life back into your yard.

A Cut Above is one of Sand Springs’ premium businesses that offers annual lawn care for homes and businesses.

Plus landscaping and hardscaping services.

During the spring season when flowers are blooming and trees are getting their green leaves, it can be disheartening to look at your own flower bed, front lawn, back yard, business front, pool surrounding etc. and not be satisfied with the way it looks! There are a few reasons to consider landscaping or hardscaping for your home or business.

While some of these spots make sense for bringing in a variety of plants and trees to beautify, sometimes these spots are in the middle of your yard… what do you do then? A fresh cut and treatment to get your tangled, dead and dry weeds out and fresh grass seed or sod in to compliment your home and give your children's feet a rest from scratchy dead grass!

Curb Appeal: Not only is it nice to come home to a beautifully landscaped home but there is significant value to adding landscaping and hardscaping to your home. Landscaping focuses on adding beauty in the form of flowers, trees, bushes, various types of plants etc. covered with mulch and edged, typically by rock, brick, or landscaping edging.

Hardscaping on the other hand can expand porches or landing pads with beautiful cemented Oklahoma rock in whatever shape you desire.

“Not too long ago we were hired to add $2,000 dollars worth of landscaping to the front of a home that wasn’t selling,” shared Allen, owner of A Cut Above. “After finishing the project, the home sold for $10,000 above the original listing price!”

Over the past few years, with the pandemic, outdoor spaces began to thrive like never before. Well manicured lawns and well maintained landscaping areas haven’t just stopped at the front of the house. Much more time is spent outside, so having an aesthetically pleasing and functionable backyard to enjoy and spend time with family

A few other reasons to consider landscaping or hardscaping are: privacy, beautification, tranquility, natural color, aroma therapy, lower stress and increased happiness!

Erosion: It may sound scary, but the earth does move underneath us! Often over time areas in our front or backyard can erode, meaning soil is slowly destroyed by wind, water or other natural agents where the earth has moved and is now a concern or disturbance. One of the ways that we manage erosion is by placing a retaining wall. This is not only pleasing to the eye, but it keeps your yard safe for kids to play in, and keeps the soil from further erosion.

At A Cut Above our goal is to bring beauty to the Sand Springs area through landscaping and hardscaping, making homes functional, aesthetically pleasing, and more valuable in the process.

To get a custom quote for your home, call (918) 230-9508 to get started today!

WE'RE HIRING! CONTACT US >> 28 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT L.A.F.S- Life Applications For Students Have you ever wondered…"man they should have taught me ______ in school."

• • • • •

Navigating peer pressure Concentrating techniques for work Preparation Self-directed learning

and being prepared are essential to students becoming self-directed learners, productive citizens, effective communicators, critical thinkers and cooperative contributors in the classroom and in society. The L.A.F.S. students are engaged in many

Communication

Coy Caviness has taken that question to a whole new level by leading the 7th grade L.A.F.S - Life Applications For Students.

L.A.F.S is a course designed to help students develop positive character attributes and appropriate behaviors in order to achieve high academic standards in school. Through this program students create a framework for integrating life principles into their everyday school lives.

Caviness shared that this program, “...is based on the idea that developing character in students begins with the teacher modeling positive character attributes and actively coaching students to learn and practice life principles which form the basis of sound character. The fundamentals of L.A.F.S. rest on the knowledge that there is a clear relationship between character and academic achievement.”

Now we can not only wish our students were taught character building traits in school, we can be assured through programs like L.A.F.S. that our students ARE being taught life skills that will not only help them manage school life, but also life after school.

There are many integral parts of this class such as health and safety conscious behavior techniques, resisting peer pressure, concentrating techniques,

grade-level and school-wide activities that provide opportunities for them to learn and develop positive character traits. Some of the speakers and activities include: (but are not limited to)

• • • • • • •

CPR and First Aid Boat Oklahoma (Boat Safety) Making healthy choices Operation Safe Place Conflict Resolution Flag Etiquette Life Principles Guidelines…and much more!

Students are also encouraged to be involved in volunteer opportunities like peer tutoring, Cops and Kids, and Special Olympics.

With programs like Life Applications For Students in the Sand Springs School System we look forward to the up and coming citizens of our community who we know will do incredible things! A huge thanks to Coy Caviness for taking on the task of teaching the youth of Sand Springs such important life skills.

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 29

SANDITES IN ACTION

NATIONAL MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH In May, 1999, the United States Congress designated

2022 will be the first year of this effort.

the entire month of May as National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM), a time that encourages

The Witkop Foundation has its roots in a challenge

U.S. Citizens to observe the month as a symbol of

given to Don Pitts in 2017 by Jess de Klerk. This task

unity. NMAM honors current and former members of

was to find a way to “…give back”; in that quest Pitts

the Armed Forces, including those who have died in

approached Dr. Dianne Dinkel with a question, “Can

the pursuit of freedom. May is characterized by six

we do this…forming a charity to bring us all together

national observances, highlighting the contributions of

in an outdoor venue?” The result was the formation

all who have served.

of the Witkop Foundation, a not-for-profit 501C3 corporation. Their “Excursions & Expeditions” are

Recognizing an opportunity to bring this unifying

designed as a focal point to rally the troops, bring

message to the community of Sand Springs are

patriots, supporters and family members together

longtime residents, Don Pitts, Dianne Dinkel, John

while enjoying the opportunity to share in a morale,

Richardson, Shawn Ketcher and South African

welfare and recreation activity, often something they

Businessman Jess de Klerk, who recognize the value

might otherwise not have an opportunity to enjoy.

of outdoor recreation and nature-based activities as a form of rest and recreation for those serving in high

The mission, to Honor Their Sacrifice is accomplished

intensity/high stress environments -- warriors and

in these outdoor gatherings and forums in various

first responders who serve others by moving forward

manners, designed to assist those transitioning back

towards a threat, acting selflessly to protect one

to life after serving abroad as well as those who have

another or a greater good from harm.

been “home” for many years, but lacking a sense of cohesiveness and camaraderie they felt while serving

With this in mind Don Pitts, President of the Witkop

alongside others in specialized roles.

Foundation approached City of Sand Springs Manager Mike Carter with a proposition to turn our

“We all look forward to going back home, but after

community Red, White and Blue during NMAM and

leaving our military family and bidding so long to our

place our hometown among those other communities

unit members, we soon realize that a major part

who are most supportive of those who serve. The

of our lives has been left behind – the sense of lost

request was met with a hearty encouragement and

purpose can adversely affect us”, stated retired USAF Colonel Don Pitts who served 17 of his 30-year career in close-knit fighter squadrons where very strong purpose existed. Pitts also offered, “This sense of unity, The Band of Brothers and Sisters you may

30 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2022

have heard about, is a tremendously powerful bond… and without it many of us lose our direction.”

•

To honor those who serve, the Witkop Foundation, in partnership with the City of Sand Springs is honoring our military and first responders with individual personalized banners that will be flown in the City of Sand Springs from May thru July 4, 2022. Each banner will depict a picture of your loved ones along with their Name, Rank and Branch of Service and costs $200. The banners will be returned to the purchaser when they are taken down by the City of Sand Springs in July. To order a banner, please go to www. witkopfoundation.org or contact Dianne Dinkel at 708.710.9858.

Additionally, the City of Sand Springs, along with Witkop Foundation and other Veteran Service Organizations, including, Vets That Matter, American Legion, and American Legion Women’s Auxiliary have joined forces to celebrate and honor our citizens who are part of the military family, past and present, with a series of events scheduled in May: May 1 – Salute Banners rendered (City of Sand Springs) May 7 – Keystone Ancient Forest family hike and lunch (9:00 a.m.)

May 11 – Prayer luncheon at Church That Matters (11:30 a.m.)

May 15 – Honor Those Who Serve Flag Unfurling Ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery (3:00 p.m.)

May 19 – American Legion Post 16 Red, White & Blue Bingo Night (6:00 p.m.)

May 23 – City of Sand Springs Mayoral Proclamation: City Council meeting (6:00 p.m.)

May 25 – Honor the Fallen flag placement at Woodlawn Cemetery (7:00 p.m.)

May 30 – Memorial Day Ceremony – Woodlawn Cemetery (10:00 a.m.)

May 2022 | WeAreSandSprings.com 31

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