MAY - JUN 2020
After tinkering around in the garage, building a dozen blanket forts for the little ones in the living room, binge-watching the latest Netflix series, and assisting the kids with their math assignments, many Sandites are looking for something else to do with their families - preferably outside the home. Since the playground equipment is unavailable and the coffee shops are closed, why not take a little road trip around Sand Springs? (Editor’s Note: See pages 12 and 13 for fun routes to take.) Make a playlist, grab some snacks, and load up the kids for a weekend afternoon cruise around town. Before you go on your trip, whether near or far, be sure your car or truck is ready for the adventure. You’ll need gas in the tank, of course, but you’ll also want to check that your tires are in great condition. With the amount of heavy rain Oklahoma receives each spring and the frequency of road construction that occurs in our area, having adequate tread depth remaining on your tires is crucial for safe driving. The primary functions of tire tread designs are intended to divert water from underneath the tire and to improve traction and handling on wet roads. Tires are no longer legal to run at 2/32nds of an inch tread remaining and most consumer safety organizations strongly recommend not running your tires past 4/32nds remaining as handling, especially your wet stopping distances, suffer as your tread depth gets thinner. At Cecil & Sons Discount Tires, we have a lot of deals on popular tire brands like Cooper, Michelin, BFGoodrich, Uniroyal, and so very many more-we can get you almost any brand of tire you may want.. Spring time is the perfect time to purchase tires as many manufacturers offer rebates and discounts during these months. You can see all current savings opportunities on our website at CecilandSon.com by hitting the tab for coupons. When all this is said and done, you’ll have plenty of errands to take care of all over the city. Take advantage of these sales and rebates with your vehicle's availability now so you have one less thing to do when the COVID-19 pandemic ends, getting you back on the road to fun and freedom faster. From our family to yours - Stay Safe, Stay Healthy
2 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
Index Letter From The Editor Introduction Letter From City Mayor Jim Spoon SSPS Online Schooling: Sherry Durkee In-Town Road Trip Senior In The Spotlight: Kristin Shipley Reframe: Joy in The Time of Coronavirus Seniors Class of 2020 Letter to our Seniors Covid-19 2020 Time-Capsule Where are They Now? John H Rudy WER 1: Join the Network, Get Involved Health in Quarantine Quarantine Anomalies
4 6 7 9 12 14 16 18 21 22 24 27 28 31
Can I just say it? I mean, we are all thinking it. I MISS PEOPLE! More specifically my people. Whether you are missing your church, work, gym, school, volunteer, band, team, or group mates I am with you. Sometimes we take our people for granted, and I believe this quarantine has shown us what it is our people really mean in our lives. They are a shoulder to cry on, the steady voice, and sometimes the type of people that introduce a little excitement into our lives; our people add to the quality of our lives. While quarantine was needed and successful it did come with its own set of challenges. I think we all got to know ourselves and our families a little better in this process! We'd love to connect with each of you through our Facebook group. Our group is a great opportunity to expand your "people".We have some exciting things coming and would encourage you to go join the group if you have not already. Right now, as we are all finding our new normal we should continue to remember those that fought on the front line of this viral attack, medical workers. Their sacrifice and stamina throughout this process have been nothing short of inspiring. For every long shift, fearful moment, and sleepless night. For every prayer said for your patients, pain and ache, and for all of your bravery, everyone on those front lines, THANK YOU! Thank you for living out your oath and commitment! You are loved and appreciated.
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 2020
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TulsaCC.edu May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 5
Reframe
The outbreak of COVID-19 has brought feelings of disappointment, panic, and despair. And yet - comfort, strength, and hope prevail. We could wallow in our anguish and fear the unknown. But Sandites have reframed this entire ordeal, pledging to see the good even when it's hard. It would be easy to plunk down in front of our televisions and let our sorrows invade, but we encourage you to choose joy and relish everything that is going well right now. Clip a few flowers from the garden and put them in a vase on the dining table. Make a batch of fresh lemonade and sip it on the front porch. Stretch out on the couch and finish the book you haven't picked up in months. Mail a letter to Grandma. Play the unopened board game your daughter got at Christmas. Yes, this is challenging, but when you reframe your thoughts, you'll notice the gift we've been given: learning how to be intentional and receiving extra time to try new things and deepen relationships.
6 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
CITY OF SAND SPRINGS
Jim Spoon, Sand Springs mayor
Sand Spring Community, As I write this letter on April 14, 2020, all our time and thoughts are occupied by the Corona Virus pandemic. Even though the cases and deaths continue to slowly rise, our community, our area and the state of Oklahoma has done a good job following the shelter-in-place requirements of local and state governments. As I drive through our community and see all the businesses either temporarily closed or limiting their services, I can’t help but wonder how long it will take us to get back to “normal.” I’m concerned that the new normal will be different for a while. I’m hoping that all our business community got to take advantage of the federal programs that would help them pay their employees and give them a boost when they open back up for business. The stimulus payments from our government are hitting checking accounts and that should help a number of people during this difficult time. At some time in the, hopefully, near future, we will begin easing the shelter-in-place recommendations. It is my hope and prayer that we don’t do this too soon or too rapidly. I am convinced that we may not be in large crowds again and hear a person coughing without having a great deal of concern. We will need to make changes in some of the things we do. No longer will you be a hero because you are working while you are sick because you don’t want to shift the load to the other employees. You need to stay home when sick and not take a chance of infecting other employees or friends. Will we ever see 45,000 people crowd into a baseball stadium? The “new” normal may be a different world for us. Let’s hope not too different. One of the negatives of the pandemic and all we are dealing with is that it has over shadowed all the success we are having in Sand Springs. As you drive around our community, you can’t help but see things happening. Chick-fil-a is continuing to prepare for a fall opening. The improvements on Main Street have begun and should make a big difference in our community. Sand Springs schools is making significant improvements in our city. Our new public safety center is working well. The City Hall remodel is nearly complete and ready for occupancy. There is a lot to see. I would like to mention a couple of important things: 1) It is vitally important that everyone fill out the 2020 Census. It can be done online or by phone. Every person that is not counted costs Oklahoma at some level about $17,000. It is also imperative that everyone is counted to make sure we don’t lose another congressional seat in Washington. 2) Red Cross and other blood banks are having a difficult time keeping up with blood donations. They can not have their usual blood drives and depend on regular donors going to their locations. Please don’t forget to donate if possible. Sand Springs is an awesome place to live. We need everyone to stay safe and enjoy Sand Springs for a long time. Stay safe, stay home, save lives, Jim Spoon Mayor
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 7
8 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
SSPS ONLINE SCHOOLING Despite Quarantine, Schooling Continues With Invaluable Lessons “We have never experienced anything like this before,” said Superintendent Sherry Durkee. “But our team came together, and we just got to work.”
Sherry Durkee SSPS Superintendent
Once spring break ends, it’s a race to the finish line to the end of the school year. With spirit week, field trips, state testing, prom, kindergarten and high school graduation, and everything in between, time seems to fly when students return to class after a week off in mid-March. But this year with the global outbreak of COVID-19, everything came to a screeching halt - and students didn’t come back from the break.
served, the morning announcements are still being made via video, and the construction continues at Charles Page High School.
Instead of returning to school, students started attending classes through Google Classroom. “In just three days, I watched our team get to work and get creative and get our classes online,” said Mrs. Durkee. “One thing that became obvious right away is how much our staff loves our students.”
Events that students look forward to all year long have been cancelled or postponed, but the education the students of Sand Springs Public Schools are receiving is better than ever.
Moving the entire district to a digital learning platform in such a short amount of time wasn’t without its challenges, but Mrs. Durkee says the teachers are making the most of it. One teacher, she noted, posted a video of a few bloopers that happened when an instructional video was first being created, which made Mrs. Durkee smile. She shared, “We’re taking it in stride and making the most of it.” “Sherry Baker, for example, is a high-qualified Sandite who has adapted so well,” Mrs. Durkee said. “I can’t express how proud I am of all our teachers and administrators. I just stand in awe.” Anxiety is high for some, Mrs. Durkee said, but that teachers and students alike are learning to adjust and that everyone will be stronger for this experience. “Morale has been high,” Mrs. Durkee shared, “which is a blessing.” She said one teacher recently used the phrase where there’s a will, there’s a way. “This is flexibility to the enth degree,” Mrs. Durkee said. Life goes on for Sand Springs Public Schools. Thousands of breakfasts and lunches are being
“In life, there are obstacles, there’s no doubt about it,” said Mrs. Durkee. “We’re going to use this opportunity to learn and grow stronger. This is a lesson in strength, tenacity, and resilience.”
“If we’re not teaching our children how to respond to real-life issues, they may not know how to react,” Mrs. Durkee said. “Through this, our students are learning how to be tenacious and how to be leaders for when their time comes - and it will.”
“In life, there are obstacles, there’s no doubt about it, we’re going to use this opportunity to learn and grow stronger. This is a lesson in strength, tenacity, and resilience.” Though the time frame remains unknown, classes will eventually resume for Sand Springs Public Schools. “We’re going to be ready for it,” Mrs. Durkee said. “We’re going to find that we’re better for having had this experience.” Perhaps the return to school, whenever that time comes, will be a bigger celebration than all the cancelled and postponed activities and events combined. “I can’t wait to get back,” Mrs. Durkee shared with a smile. May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 9
10 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
Every spring, many Sandites suffer seasonal allergies that cause watery eyes, runny noses, and itchy throats. And if you’re a pet owner, you may have noticed your dog or cat suffering, too. One of the biggest causes of allergies in dogs are environmental allergies. While a dog can experience allergies in any season, the most common are winter and spring allergies. These allergies can cause sensitivity to dust mites and mold in the colder months and pollens, trees, and weeds come spring. Though these allergies can cause watery eyes and excessive sneezing in dogs, hallmark symptoms include itchy skin (which causes the dog to excessively lick their paws, face, and ears) and secondary skin infections. Allergy testing and allergy shots, also called immunotherapy, are the best way to manage canine allergies. Like dogs, cats can also be allergic to dust, mold, and pollen. Should you suspect your cat is allergic to something, watch for irritation, itchiness, and rashes, which can lead to bald patches and hot spots. In felines with environmental allergies and sensitivities, you may notice respiratory distress like wheezing and sneezing and digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Both dogs and cats can be allergic to a variety of natural and man-made allergens, including dust, foods, pollen, cleaning products, insecticides, fabrics, cigarette smoke, and perfume. It’s important for a veterinarian to perform testing to determine the cause of your pet’s symptoms. If your dog or cat displays frequent, persistent allergic symptoms, schedule an appointment with the staff at Sand Springs Small Animal Hospital today at 918-245-VETS. The team offers compassionate care and will create a customized plan to help treat your pet’s allergen discomfort, allowing your furry sidekick to quickly return to their regular activities of ball fetching and couch naps.
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 11
A
round this time every year, Sandites eagerly
begin making summertime plans for the parks and lake: picnics, volleyball, hiking, wakeboarding, jet-skiing, tubing, fishing, camping. Life is a little different right now, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had outdoors. Take this map with you next time you and your family want to get out of the house for an hour or the entire afternoon. Fresh air and sunshine are just what the doctor ordered - at a distance from others, of course.
12 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 13
Charles Page High School senior Kristin Shipley says if she could give one piece of advice to underclassmen, it would be this: “Get involved. Join the student council. Join a sport. Join a club. Join something because it will [help you meet new friends] who have similar interests.” Kristin, our Senior in the Spotlight for the May/June issue, took her own advice to heart. Throughout high school, Kristin has participated in the worship team at church, led the Charles Page High School marching band as the drum major, played oboe for the Tulsa Youth Symphony, worked at a local daycare, and took several missions trips with her church. “Music is a huge part of my life,” Kristin says. “I truly believe it makes me who I am.” Because of her involvement in several music organizations, Kristin has had the opportunity to play classical arrangements on the oboe, jazz pieces on the saxophone, and contemporary songs on the piano. At school, Kristin says Mr. Kyle Wright, who has been her band director since 6th grade, helped develop her passion for music. “He is always there to support me and offer advice,” Kristin says. “I know I can always walk into his office for help with difficult music; he truly cares about every one of his students.” 14 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
“Because of my musical training, I was able to earn a scholarship to Northeastern State University,” Kristin says. This fall, Kristin will head off to college to earn her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in music. Later, she’ll pursue a master’s degree in occupational therapy with the hopes of opening a clinic for disabled children.
“Get involved. Join the student council. Join a sport. Join a club. Join something because it will [help you meet new friends] who have similar interests.” Kristin has been preparing for this path all along. She works 25 hours a week at Kids 1st Learning Center as an assistant teacher in a school-age room. “I help kids with their homework, play with them, make sure they’re safe, and clean the room at the end of each day,” Kristin says. “My favorite part of the job is planning activities for my kids and watching them have fun doing them.” In addition, Kristin has been taking college courses at Tulsa Community College and will be halfway through her sophomore year of college once she graduates high school.
Kristin says she has made friends where she works and in her concurrent college classes and that these friendships will last a lifetime. Her missions trips to Tanzania have helped her form lifelong bonds, too. “My missions trips have had a massive impact on my life,” Kristin says. “I have made many friends who live in Tanzania, and they are some of the best friends I have.” Though her free time is limited, Kristin makes the most of it. “Baking is one of my favorite hobbies,” Kristin says, “and I also enjoy crafting, up-cycling clothing, and making signs, scrunchies, and bath bombs.” She even sells some of her creations for a little extra money.
"My friends have helped me through the darkest times of my life, and I don’t know where or who I would be without them.” “When I’m not crazy busy, I really enjoy just spending time with my friends,” Kristin says. “[My friends] have helped me through the darkest times of my life,” Kristin says, “and I don’t know where or who I would be without them.” “The one thing I will miss the most about high school is the group of friends I have,” Kristin says. “[We will continue to talk], but it will be different because we won’t see each other daily. Once in college, Kristin looks forward to meeting new people from across the country. With Kristin’s commitment to seeking rewarding opportunities, reaching her goals and trying new things with enthusiasm, there’s no doubt Kristin will get involved at Northeastern State University and continue making special friendships - keeping harmony along the way.
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 15
Joy in the Time
16 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
of Coronavirus
In March, everything changed. The first major event to be canceled was SXSW, the Austinbased music, tech, and film festival that happens every spring. Next, the remainder of the NBA season was suspended indefinitely. Less than two weeks later, the summer Olympics in Tokyo were postponed to 2021. By then, there were almost 54,000 cases of Americans infected by the novel coronavirus as public schools and universities closed nationwide and film premieres and concerts from coast to coast were rescheduled. On April 1st, Mayor James Spoon issued a shelter-in-place proclamation for the City of Sand Springs, emphasizing the increasing importance of Sand Springs residents to stay home and exercise extreme caution while tending to essential errands like picking up groceries and medicine. Gyms, barbershops, massage parlors, hair and nail salons, dance studios, and entertainment venues were ordered to cease operation, and coffee shops and restaurants were mandated to offer take-out and delivery services only. In the last few years, Sand Springs residents have endured an EF2 tornado and historical flooding - but most of us never anticipated a global pandemic would disrupt our community. Many small business owners are reeling from the sudden closure of their cafés and stores, scrambling to apply for loans or move their inventory online. Parents are attempting to balance working from home while teaching their elementary children homonyms and long division, and high school seniors are grappling with the changes of their proms and graduations. Right now, there are no playdates in the park, baseball games to cheer for, or date nights out over pasta and candlelight. People are donning masks to pick up groceries at the store, the stock market is volatile, and the unemployment rate has skyrocketed. And yet, there is hope and cause for celebration. Residents are creating rainbows out of bright-colored tissue paper to hang in their front windows. Families are taking long walks after dinner, admiring the growing wisteria and dancing on the sidewalks. Friends are texting funny and relatable memes back and forth, a welcome respite from the harrowing headlines and will surely be referenced as the our modern day comic strips. Children’s birthdays are being commemorated with drive-by parades, cars bedecked in balloons honking and making laps around the block. At night, couples mix up mint juleps and work puzzles on the coffee table. Neighborhood groups are making plans for front porch renditions of “How Great Thou Art” on Easter morning. This isn’t the first time a pandemic has swept our country, and it may not be the last. There are certainly challenges that lie ahead as we rebuild our communities and work through the grief and trauma each of us has experienced. But soon, we will all be together again. We’ll embrace - without reservation - among the grocery store produce, its bounty overflowing. We’ll meet friends for dinner out, glasses clinking to new-found communion. We’ll gather in the parks, the sound of kids squealing and laughing filling the air. We’ll look back on this time tenderly, mourning for the lives lost and grateful for all the time spent with loved ones. And when this disease is no longer spreading and the shelter-in-place order lifts, we Sandites will emerge from our homes, our hands outstretched skyward, singing, “Then I shall bow, in humble adoration, and then proclaim: ‘My God, how great Thou art!’”
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 17
Emily Newman Throughout her junior and senior years at Charles Page High School, which she describes as unforgettable, Emily Newman loved attending the football games and pep assemblies. When she graduates, Emily says she’ll miss the liveliness and camaraderie in the hallways the most. If she could give advice to the underclassmen, she would tell them: “Don’t feel like you have to do every single thing. It’s not the end of the world if you miss an event. And live life to the fullest!” While attending Charles Page High School, Emily also attended Tulsa Tech, where she became a licensed nail technician. Post-graduation, Emily will work in a nail salon and attend Oklahoma State University to study business.
Quinton Firey The one word Quinton Firey would use to describe his senior year at Charles Page High School is wacky. Involved with Future Farmers of America and the National Honor Society, and a concurrent student at Tulsa Tech, Quinton says his favorite part of his senior year was hanging out with his friends and making signs and banners for the school using skills he learned at Tulsa Tech. If Quinton could give one piece of advice to underclassmen at Charles Page High School, he would say: “Just be yourself. Don’t try to fit in with certain people to hold a certain ‘status.’ Do whatever makes you happy and fulfills your interests.” After graduation, Quinton plans to attend College of the Ozarks to study Business Administration and Marketing.
Taylor Spencer If Taylor Spencer, the senior class president at Charles Page High School, could give underclassmen one piece of advice, she’d say, “Never take anything for granted, and never wish away high school because it will be over before you know it.” Taylor, who is also a varsity cheerleader, member of the Student Council, and National Honor Society officer, says her teachers and peers challenged her to be the best person she can be. Taylor says her senior year was memorable, including the last opportunity to dance with her teammates at the National Cheerleading Association nationals. Post-graduation, Taylor plans to major in elementary education and become a 4th grade teacher.
Haven't had the chance to submit your senior yet? Visit wearesandsprings.com/submit-senior-spotlight 18 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
Morgan Poletek A member of the National Honor Society and a soccer player for the Lady Sandites soccer team, Morgan Poletek says her favorite memory of senior year was singing the National Anthem with her teammates before taking the field. She says she’ll miss game days the most, but she’s looking forward to her post-graduation plans. Morgan will attend Rose State College and plans to major in Dental Hygiene. If given the opportunity to pass along some advice to the underclassmen at Charles Page High School, Morgan says she would tell them: “Be kind to everyone, and be involved in the present. Don’t worry too much about the future, because it can change in an instant.”
Jaxon Skaggs Jaxon Skaggs is a baseball player, yearbook staff, and member of the National Honor Society at Charles Page High School. He says if he could tell the underclassmen one thing, it would be: “Take the harder courses so you’re prepared later.” Jaxon says one of his top memories from his senior year was the first win of the season because it was Coach Brown’s first win. In the fall, Jaxon will attend Missouri Baptist University, where he will play baseball and major in Business. He says one of the things he’ll miss the most at Charles Page High School is the jokes Mrs. Toppins tells.
Jerret Haley Jerret Haley, a Charles Page High School football player and member of the fishing league, says what he will miss most once he graduates this spring seeing his friends regularly. On the football team, Jerret earned the defensive MVP award. After graduation, he plans to attend Tulsa Tech to learn how to become a machine operator. His advice to underclassmen is simple and his loved ones can vouch he follows it to a tee: “Dedicate yourself to everything you do.”
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 19
Jordan Moore Jordan Moore says of all the things she’ll miss at Charles Page High School, she’ll especially miss the teachers and the love they have for each of their students. From her sophomore year to her senior year, Jordan served as the wrestling manager; a lot of her favorite memories from the 2019-2020 school year revolve around wrestling, including being nominated as one of the queens for the wrestling homecoming. Once Jordan graduates, she plans to attend Tulsa Community College to become a registered nurse. If Jordan could give the underclassmen some advice, she’d tell them: “Take it all in. Join as many things as you can and make as memories as you can, because it could get ruined at any moment.”
Hannah Coe In a word, Hannah Coe describes her senior year as “interesting.” She participated in choir and was featured in 9 to 5: The Musical. A few words of advice from Hannah for the Charles Page High School underclassmen: “Don’t be afraid to be yourself; popularity means nothing in the real world.” After graduation, Hannah plans to attend Tulsa Community College, take a CNA course, and hopes to eventually earn a nursing degree from Northeastern State University.
Hunter Carlisle Since 9th grade, Hunter Carlisle has participated in a variety of activities, including 9th grade basketball, sophomore and junior year golf, and Student Council his senior year. Additionally, he was a member of the National Honors Society all four years of high school. Hunter says his favorite memory from senior year is attending the football games and pep rallies with his friends, and that he will miss seeing his friends everyday once he graduates. Hunter will graduate with honors and plans to expand the business he started at age 16 and pursue new ventures and investments upon graduation. 20 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
To the Class of
2020
This isn’t the senior year you imagined, but you won’t ever forget it. With spring break plans dashed and coursework moved to Google Classroom, the last couple months of your time at Charles Page High School probably looks quite different than what you have always envisioned. It isn’t fair, but life isn’t and never promised to be. And yet, everything you’ve learned since kindergarten has prepared for you for this. You are resilient, you are strong, and you are equipped - this is still your year, Class of 2020. No one could have predicted this made-for-Hollywood cliffhanger, your belongings left in lockers and plans for prom and graduation suddenly uncertain. You may have envisioned the cinematic moment you would ask your crush to dance or the opportunity to switch the tassel on your graduation cap while your loved ones cheered your name, but this was completely unexpected. While it may be challenging to grapple with, the best is truly yet to come. Embrace this time. Learn how to make bolognese. Start a podcast. Write a letter to a grandparent. See how fast you can run a mile. Ask a parent to share stories from their senior year of high school. Familiarize yourself with a budgeting app. Read an awardwinning book. Try yoga. Life after graduation is full of exploration, so why not start now? Whether you are heading to college or starting a new job this fall, you will do great things. Though it may be hard to believe, this upheaval will eventually feel like a blip. A decade from now, some of you will be doctors, some of you will be welders, some of you will be landscapers, some of you will be accountants, some of you will be parents, and some of you will be teachers. Each of you will recall this time, completely bewildered that a global pandemic disrupted life as you knew it in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. But as the Sandites of the Class of 2020, you made the most of it - an unforgettable ending to a beginning full of glory.
Celebrating the CPHS Class of 2020 Events May 5 - Cap & Gown Distribution
TBA - Baccalaureate
May 9 - Virtual Celebration & Lights on
June 27 - Graducation
Sand Springs
June 27 - Senior Celebration
May 22 - Last Day of School Parade
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 21
Most of us are snapping pictures and recording short video clips to capture how we spent our days during the COVID-19 mandated shelterin-place order. And while you may occasionally flick through your camera roll to remember these times, a family time capsule helps capture exactly how life was in the spring of 2020. Here’s a helpful list to get started, but feel free to add whatever relics defined this time for you:
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SPAPER - Cut A CURRENT ARTICLE FROM THE DAILY NEW help you recall specific memories or help
es may the entire front page in. Seeing the headlin children who were too young at the time to explain the severity of the pandemic to your understand. of the L MEALS - There’s a reason flour was one A RECIPE CARD FOR ONE OR TWO SPECIA ts is comforting. Pen a couple of the recipes you
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x GLOVES - Some wore an N95 mask and laten AND SKS MA E FAC LIKE S ITEM ED -US NLY whe COMMO ing gloves. Tuck these items into the capsule
garden your gloves while others wore bandanas andpro ly never forget wearing this protective gear on you’re done using them - though you’ll bab errands! Whether you open your time capsule a year from now or at the start of the next decade, having these bits and pieces tucked away in a small box will bring a mix of relief and reflection.
22 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
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Where Are They Now? John H Rudy On the first day of school in September of 1952, C.C. Jelks came in and wrote four large words on the black board: SMART PEOPLE PLAN AHEAD. For John Rudy, a 1953 graduate of Sand Springs High School, that simple phrase made a huge impact. “Since that moment,” Mr. Rudy said “that phrase has been one of my ideals.” Other Sandites who influenced Mr. Rudy include Clyde Boyd, Sr. and John Beck, who “had reputations for being two of the most supportive educators in Sand Springs.”
today need to focus on the people,” Mr. Rudy says. On June 24, 1961, Mr. Rudy and Elva Parris, who graduated from and taught English at Sand Springs High School, were married. Together they had four daughters who also graduated from Charles Page High School. The Rudys have been married for 60 years. “It’s been an enormous blessing,” Mr. Rudy said.
SMART PEOPLE PLAN AHEAD
“Since that moment, that
After Mr. Rudy graduated from Sand Springs phrase has been one of my High School, known now as Charles Page High School, he attended the University of Tulsa for ideals.” two years while working part-time at R-K Motors. During his junior year, Mr. Rudy transferred to the Eventually Mr. Rudy purchased the other half University of Oklahoma, but his father’s declining health prompted Mr. Rudy to return home to of R-K Motors from his father’s business partner, Glade Kirkpatrick, and later the business was sold assist with responsibilities at R-K Motors. to the Noller Automotive Group. Ultimately, John By age 21, Mr. Rudy was supervising 20 Rudy and his family - with help from the Sand employees at R-K motors, and soon after he Springs Chamber of Commerce, the City of Sand had finished and earned a degree in Business Springs, Tulsa Technology Center, and others Management and Marketing, he was working with sold the dealership’s property to Tulsa Technology R-K Motors full-time. Providing quality customer Center. The college’s Sand Springs campus is service was paramount for Mr. Rudy. “Car dealers thriving. 24 WeAreSandSprings.com | May 2020
Today, many Charles Page High School students are concurrently enrolled at Tulsa Technology Center. “This year’s senior class is exceptional,” says Mrs. Elva Rudy, “and we have no doubts they will come back from this [pandemic].” Throughout his life in Sand Springs, Mr. Rudy has continued to serve the community. Mr. Rudy is a 2009 Hometown Hero, a 32° Scottish Rite Mason, a two-term Sand Springs councilman, a Paul Harris fellow, one of the original donors who helped create the first Box Supper for the Sand Springs Educational Foundation, and a member of the Sand Springs Rotary Club for over fifty years. The direction Mr. Jelks provided Mr. Rudy almost seventy years ago has served him well. Throughout his life, Mr. Rudy has made plans and pursued them relentlessly, along the way frequently giving back to the town where he was raised.
"This year’s senior class is exceptional,and we have no doubts they will come back from this [pandemic].”
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 25
W E R 1
C
ommunity can be hard to come by. No matter your age, we find our that our schedules can fill up, and before we know it, we aren't connecting with new people or sharing our passion with our community. Each of us has something unique to share, but we don't always have the platform to contribute. Insert WeR1, a once-a-month opportunity to connect with new people and share your passion. Whether you’re a team mom, budding photographer, needlepoint expert, bird-watching enthusiast, or a skilled pastry maker, there could be someone in this group who’s just like you.
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Each month, we will gather to help introduce Sandites to each other and facilitate conversation about our shared passions. There will be monthly challenges and monthly benefits, like gift cards to local restaurants and shops, and some meetings may feature guest speakers. WeR1 exists to encourage connection, growth, and local excitement.
To learn about the first WeR1 event, visit our website at wearesandsprings.com/weR1 today!
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Health in Quarantine How to Maintain Your Health While at Home There are plenty of hilarious memes out there about overeating and streaming hours of television and TikTok during the quarantine, and while it’s okay to indulge in a homemade chocolate chip cookie or a couple episodes of the newest Netflix release, taking care of our physical and mental health is one of the best things we can do for ourselves right now. Shelly Fritz, the owner of Reality Fitness, says there are four important steps to maintaining physical health: eat well, exercise often, drink plenty of water, and get a good night of sleep.
stay more active,” Shelly says. According to Shelly, there are a few easy steps Sandites can take to tone their muscles and boost their metabolism: do calf raises while you brush your teeth, do squats while you wait for your lunch to finish cooking, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and park at the far end of the grocery store parking lot to get extra steps in. Shelly recommends taking jogs and walks outside, plus she offers a helpful routine to add movement throughout your day:
“If a person is new to exercise, I would encourage them to be creative in [their efforts] to become and Start the morning with a five minute lower ab workout.
In the afternoon, do some squat jumps (outdoors, if possible!)
Before bed, see how many push-ups you can do.
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“Physical health is extremely important, as your physical health has a direct affect on your mental health,” Sherry said. Local yoga instructor Sonia Marshall says one of the best ways to maintain your mental health is through guided meditation. “Try an app like Headspace, which provides an opportunity for self-reflection,” says Sonia. “With meditation, you can live in the present moment instead of worrying about the future.”
Both Shelly and Sonia recommend searching for exercise and yoga programs online. Many gyms and studios are offering live classes with qualified instructors on Facebook and Instagram. Some are free, some are donation-based, and some charge a small fee to participate. “Hang in there,” Shelly says. “The key is to be creative and keep moving!”
For beginners, Sonia recommends making exercise fun and making it a priority. Sonia recommends taking a playful approach, even incorporating silly dance moves or a plank challenge with a friend. “If it’s fun,” Sonia says, “you’ll do it again.”
Miss Tiritas Dance & Performing Arts Studio Classes from ages 2 and up • Baby Bop • Ballet Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop• Lyrical • Voice • Piano Musical Theater • Pilates • Yoga Aerobics • Hip Hop Abs
www.MissTiritas.com
918.241.5637 19 West 41st Street | Sand Springs
$10 OFF Summer
Enrollment WE ARE
Coupon
Serving Sand Springs Since 1990 • Not Valid with Other Offers • Offer Expires 06-30-2020
Miss Tiritas Dance & Performing Arts Studio
918.241.5637
May 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 29
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As 2020 began, many of us were seeking a slower change of pace. Our calendars were packed with swim lessons, soccer practice, piano recitals, networking events, and birthday parties, and it seemed like there was never any time to curl up with a book or enjoy a picnic. When the novel coronavirus, called COVID-19, broke out in the United States and orders were made for businesses to close and for families to remain sheltered at home, suddenly we found the time we were looking for. Though tensions have run high, spending so much time with our spouses, children, and loved ones at home has been such a gift. Below, we’re sharing 19 anomalies Sandites are experiencing during the COVID-19 outbreak. Feel free to tear this page out and add it to your scrapbook or backyard time capsule. This period of time is one our children and grandchildren will ask us about for years!
1. Gas is $1.39 a gallon (for reference, gas was $2.66 per gallon in January 2020). 2. Grocery stores are sold out of toilet paper, disinfecting supplies, flour, milk, and eggs. Some stores have implemented purchasing limits on items like Clorox and boxed pasta.
10. Weddings are cancelled, causing huge financial losses for florists and rental companies. Funeral services are being postponed or commemorated virtually. 11. Restaurants and coffee shops are only open for take-out or delivery; no dine-in option.
3. Grocery stores are open, but many people opt for pick-up or delivery. Inside the stores, tape and signs are used to help shoppers maintain six feet of distance.
12. No one can receive beauty services like haircuts, eyebrow waxing, or manicures because salons are closed and estheticians can’t perform at-home services.
4. Schools are closed and classes are conducted through Google Classroom and Zoom.
13. Breweries are temporarily permitted to hand-deliver canned and bottled beers to homes.
5. Church services are held online through digital streaming services.
14. Distilleries are making hand sanitizer and fabric companies are making masks.
6. Birthday parties are celebrated virtually through FaceTime. Some people are throwing drive-by birthday parades or arranging home delivery for special treats.
15. Retailers are offering steep discounts on everything from patio furniture to denim shorts.
7. Collegiate and professional sports seasons have been cancelled. March Madness, an NCAA tournament held every spring, was cancelled for the first time since 1939. 8. The Summer Olympics, slated for July 2020 in Tokyo, were cancelled preemptively. 9. Concerts, festivals, conferences, and tours across the country are cancelled and hotel occupancy is in the single digits.
16. Businesses are selling take-home kits for kids, including cookie decorating and ceramic painting, and stationery products are a hot commodity for exchanging letters. 17. Hiking trails and lakes are packed and everyone is landscaping their lawns. 18. Top phrases being used on the news are “social distancing” and “flattening the curve.” 19. Families are spending more time together than they have in recent decades.
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