Take Off
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Index Letter From The Editor
4
Introduction
6
Sink or Float?
10
Love Alicia Day
12
Jimmy "The Brick" Flick
14
Cast a Line: and your cares
16
A Beacon of Joy: date night by the sailing club
18
Sand Springs Sports Calendar
22
Sand Springs Trails
24
Physical Distancing in Public Parks
28
Sand Springs Public Schools: District Dialogue
30
With the past several months that we have had, part of me wants to get away, make a break for it, take off. Between the COVID-19 pandemic, a house flood, and personal triggers out the wazoo, I feel like taking a break. I want to get away from the pandemic, get away from all of the political nonsense, get away from all the house projects that need to be done, get away from the responsibilities of life. But ultimately, where would I go? Where can I go that all these things won't follow me like a small raincloud over my head? I think getting away to clear my head is a good thing, but when it comes to getting away (read: "run away") from the problems we face both internal and external, that's where I think we start to run into trouble. What is the one thing in common with all the places I might go from here? Any guesses? I WILL STILL BE THERE! We tend to take these problems, these ugly things, these anxieties with us because they all reside within us. There are things that I can control, and things that I cannot. I cannot control the political climate, but I can control the state of my mind. So my encouragement to you is this: If you are going to take off (in-town, out-of-town, and anywhere inbetween) take off with the right mindset. Go with the knowledge that there might still be issues waiting for you when you get back, there will most likely still be a pandemic going on, there will most likely still be politically charged news wherever you go. But keep in mind that the "taking off" is meant to get your mind in the right space, get you loving yourself and empowering yourself to do the things that are needed when you get back. Take off, not because you are running away, but because you are wanting to move forward.
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2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 5
Take O ff
We can't all take off to Paris or New York whenever we want to, however nice it might sound. We can, though, take off across town. Each Sandite has a few minutes to spare every now and again, which we can use to renew our minds and our spirit. We chose the theme "take off" for this magazine because we know it's been a tough year so far. Some might even say that it has been the most difficult year in their lifetime, but still we must carry on. We need to put ourselves in the best position to move forward and to do that we need a clear mind and an immovable will. All of this can be accomplished while taking off (just across town) to some of what Sand Springs has to offer. So take a chance, take off, and enjoy the best of Sand Springs.
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Sink or Float? Facing a crisis can be challenging, even for those with happy-go-lucky attitudes, but it’s critical to your
trying out the ideas below to help you stay afloat after the tumultuous summer our community experienced.
mental well-being and immune system to strive for a sunny disposition when possible. Many Sandites have
Practice gratitude Take a moment each day to
experienced struggles big and small this year, and it’s
recognize both small and significant things you are
not always easy to put on a happy face.
thankful for. (If it’s helpful, make a list in a journal and reference it when you are having a difficult day.)
Being hopeful or having confidence about an
Anything goes, whether it’s something that provides
outcome can help you navigate difficult circumstances,
temporary pleasure, like a hot cup of coffee or the
though this level of positivity doesn’t come naturally to
morning song of birds, or big-picture things like having
everyone. If you struggle to feel optimistic in the face
food and shelter or a loving family.
of uncertainty, take heart đ‘ ‹ there are steps you can take to help boost your mood and, ultimately, alter
Reframe your focus Rather than fixating on an
your mindset. It’s especially important to be vigilant
outcome out of your control, take charge of things you
about your current mood, since scientific studies show
can control. Concentrating on small, concrete things
a correlation between overall health and optimism, and
can help decrease feelings of anxiety and worry, too.
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Try random acts of kindness Whether you and your
Have faith Lean into your spirituality, which can
children send cards to nursing home residents or drop
provide comfort, support, and stability in times of
a fresh-baked loaf of pumpkin bread on the neighbor’s
trouble. But know, too, that kindness and perseverance
stoop, you’ll get immediate feel-good endorphins and
are worth believing in and practicing.
will feel a sense of purpose long after the deed is done. Humans are wildly resilient, and this year many Relax your body When you feel tense, the
Sandites have overcome obstacles that seemed
muscles in your back, shoulders and jaw stiffen and
impossible at the onset. Equipped with practical
can even cause soreness. So, throughout the day,
suggestions to increase mindfulness and buoyed by
take a moment to notice your posture and how your
our commitment to confront calamity with boundless
body feels. Spend a few minutes being aware of your
optimism, our community can conquer anything. In
breathing, allowing yourself to slowly breathe in and
Sand Springs, we’ll all float on.
breathe out.
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Two years ago, cousins Alicia Passmore and Kassy Williams opened a salon and clothing boutique, called Blush Hair and Makeup Lounge and Rose Ann Adoring Boutique on Main Street in Sand Springs. The boutique name is a moniker of the pair’s middle names. Since opening, the women have endured a temporary, mandated business closure during the outbreak of COVID-19 and, just a few weeks ago, Alicia received devastating, life-altering news. In March, Alicia began experiencing pain in her knee, which she attributed to the industry she’s in and the physical demands it requires. But several weeks ago, her knee started to swell and doctors suspected a torn meniscus. After being prescribed crutches, undergoing extensive lab work, and having back-to-back hospital stays, Alicia was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is cancer of the bone marrow, and Alicia has up to 26 sessions of chemotherapy ahead of her. She has completed two treatments so far, and the medical bills are already mounting. Alicia has been unable to work for over two months, and though she has health insurance, the coverage just began so the deductible is very high. Like the oncologists who wasted no time starting Alicia’s treatment, Alicia’s community also immediately plunged into action. Along with other business owners throughout Sand Springs, Alicia’s cousin Kassy made a plan to tangibly help Alicia so she can focus on her treatment. A community-wide fundraiser called Local Love Alicia Day, a raffle, a poker run, and a GoFundMe fundraiser have all been created to raise money to cover Alicia’s medical bills and cost-of-living expenses. “The hardest part is not having Alicia here,� Kassy says
through tears. “She gets hair products and other packages in the mail, and I just leave her stuff at her station because then it’s kinda like she’s here with me.â€? At the salon, Kassy and the Blush Hair and Makeup Lounge stylists have been shuffling their calendars to accommodate Alicia’s clients, which Kassy says is an enormous privilege. “Our clients become our friends, and Alicia has a huge client following,â€? Kassy says. “Her [clientsturned-friends] check in every day and are always sending messages of support.â€? “Everyone has been so supportive of Alicia and of our little business,â€? Kassy says, “and it means the world.â€? The fundraising events were on September 19th and October 3rd, Kassy and her colleagues were amazed at the turn out for her cousin and friend. “Alicia is the sweetest soul with a heart of gold,â€? Kassy says. “She would do anything for anybody, and she is so talented and so beautiful.â€? Determined to ease some of Alicia’s financial burdens, Kassy is faithfully expecting that the community will serve as a pillar during this time and show up for Alicia exactly like they did when Kassy and Alicia opened the doors of their downtown salon and boutique. “Alicia is not alone in her battle,â€? Kassy says. “This is one hundred percent a community effort đ‘ ‹ she has an entire community behind her.â€? GOFUNDME: To give directly, visit the GoFundMe set up for Alicia on behalf of Barbara Passmore, Alicia’s mother. 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 13
Jimmy Flick "The Brick"
Jimmy "The Brick" Flick, a Sand Springs native is standing out in the mixed martial arts game 10 years into his fighting career. Among his many career highlights, he most recently earned a contract with the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). The Brick has a professional career of 15 wins and five losses with thirteen of those wins by submission. The win that got him his contract was against Nate Smith for which he won by submission in the third round. Jimmy grew up in Sand Springs, and currently lives here as well. He frequents many Sand Springs establishments while also helping out around town. He is helping to manufacture face masks and face shields during the COVID-19 pandemic at Tulsa Plastics Company. A majority of his work is going to the school system and he says he is really happy a job can stay open for teachers during this pandemic. Since 2010 when his professional career started he has fought in 20 professional fights. He fights out of Sand Springs for Forza Combat Sports, with Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre as one of his coaches. Regarding winning a UFC contract during week five of Dana White's Tuesday Night Contender Series, Flick stated, "I'm a fighter that's constantly evolving... and I haven't lost a fight in 2020... I plan on keeping the ball rolling in the UFC." Congratulations Jimmy, we look forward to your exciting career in 14 WeAreSandSprings.com | 2020
the UFC and to see you around town!
2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 15
Cast a Line (and your cares)
Life still happens in the middle of a global pandemic: cars still get flat tires, spouses still have disagreements, groceries still burst out of the flimsy plastic bag and spill all over the pavement. When you’ve had a bad day and you need space to unwind, it helps to have an activity to do that can boost your mood. For hobbyist fishers, there are several fresh-water lakes, rivers, and streams to cast a line 𑠋 and plenty of crappie, bass, catfish, and trout to catch with the right bait. SHELL LAKE Accessible from dawn to dusk, Shell Lake is just six miles west of Sand Springs and features catfish, sturgeon, crappie, and black bass. Permits are required for fishing (including shore fishing) and boating on Shell Lake, plus all anglers between the ages of 16 and 65 must have a valid Oklahoma fishing license. Birds, butterflies, and deer have been spotted throughout the area, too. KEYSTONE DAM Designed for flood control and hydroelectric power generation, Keystone Dam features largemouth and smallmouth bass, white bass, striped bass, blue catfish, and bullhead. Though this fishing spot is old hat for many locals, it’s still revered among anglers. Fishermen report the most active time for the species found here is around 10 o’clock in the morning, and they say using soft
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bait tubes, chartreuse-colored jigs, spinning reels, and monofilament line yielded the best results. To get there, enter the 36.150082 latitude, and -96.253616 longitude coordinates into your GPS. BERRYHILL CREEK Located at 36.1378682 latitude and -96.0555554 longitude, Berryhill Creek, which empties into theArkansas River, is a babbling stream teeming with largemouth bass, channel catfish, and blue catfish. SAND SPRINGS LAKE A 14-acre urban fishing lake located at Lake Drive and Park Road, Sand Springs Lake is a popular spot to bait a hook and spend the morning. The lake is stocked every three to five years with largemouth bass, catfish, and green sunfish. Other facilities include a walking trail and gazebo, plus a parking lot for easy access to the water. For many, heading out with a companion, a couple rods and reels, and some cold drinks is a salve. And in and around Sand Springs, there are plenty of places to trawl for fish. Thankfully, life does still go on during the COVID-19 outbreak. Friends will still meet you in your secret (or not-so-secret) fishing spot with their rod and reel. The bass still bite, and the sun, glinting on the water, still rises.
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A Beacon of Joy: Date Night by the Sailing Club Though the Windycrest Sailing Club has paused some of
piled high and artfully-arranged with Marcona almonds,
its official regattas and club events, single-mast sailboats
gherkins, manchego, and Jabugo ham. Don’t forget to
can still be spotted bobbing on the waters at Keystone
slice an apple and bring along a little pot of caramel sauce
Lake each day.
for an autumnal post-dinner treat!
The novelty of going on a pandemic-era date with your
DINNER TO-GO: Want something a little more fancy
partner, like having cocktails and chatting with another
than cold subs, or just need one less thing to do right
couple on a Zoom call or sipping spiked seltzer on the kids’
now? Order Napoli’s for take-out or splurge on a few
trampoline after their bedtime, has worn off and many
to-go dishes at Little Venice, or pick up a hot pizza at
couples, newlyweds, and long-time spouses alike are
Minuteman. Bring a few tealights and place them in small
looking for fun, safe things to do to keep their love afloat.
glass jars around the food for extra ambiance.
A maritime picnic at sunset watching the watercolor skies
The club, which opened in 1965, requires membership,
and sailboats cruise by is just what the (love) doctor
but all are welcome to sit on the shore and watch the
ordered. Whether you pack snacks from home or pick up
sailboats. For a great view, hop on Highway 412, exit at
take-out from your favorite spot in town, spending some
209 West Avenue, and drive five miles (just past Big Al’s).
time with your partner by the water watching sloops
When you see the sign for Windycrest Sailing Club on the
float the lake will be the bright spot in your week, helping
left, make a turn on Windycrest Drive and park, walk down
you both stay buoyed amidst the mayhem of back-to-
to the water, and set up your spread.
school, the return of children’s sports practices and music lessons, stacks of reports to comb through at work, and,
Spending time with each other lounging on a knit blanket
yes, keeping an eye on the COVID-19 data.
on the beaches of Keystone Lake will give you and your partner a little lift in your relationship to face whatever
DINNER FROM HOME: Anything goes, especially since the
lies ahead, whether it’s something small like car trouble or
point of this rendezvous is spending quality time with your
something significant like a global pandemic.
spouse, so you can choose to keep it low-key or go all out. Pack turkey sandwiches with ingredients already on-hand
During challenging times, spending intentional time with
in the refrigerator or get creative with a cheese board
your spouse can keep you anchored. 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 19
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20 WeAreSandSprings.com | 2020
Sand Springs Silo Mural
We love local art at We Are Sand Springs, send photos of your art to info@wearesandsprings.com to be considered for a feature in the next We Are Sand Springs Magazine! 2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 21
Sand Sprin Girls Varsity Volleyball Girls Varsity Fast-Pitch Softball October 1, 2020
October 1, 2020
6:00pm - Girls Varsity Volleyball at Claremore
5:00pm - Girls Varsity Fast-Pitch Softball vs Oologah
October 6, 2020
October 7, 2020
6:30pm - Girls Varsity Volleyball vs Union
All-day - Girls Varsity Fast-Pitch Softball at Regionals
October 8, 2020 6:30pm - Girls Varsity Volleyball vs Collinsville October 13, 2020 12:00am - Girls Varsity Volleyball at Regionals
Boys JV Football
Boys 8th Grade Football
October 5, 2020
October 8, 2020
6:00pm - Boys JV Football at Muskogee
6:00pm - Boys 8th Grade Football at Muskogee Green
October 12, 2020
October 13, 2020
6:00pm - Boys JV Football vs Booker T Washington
6:00pm - Boys 8th Grade Football vs Bartlesville Blue
October 19, 2020
October 22, 2020
6:00pm - Boys JV Football at Bixby
6:00pm - Boys 8th Grade Football at Carver Middle School
October 26, 2020
October 29, 2020
6:00pm - Boys JV Football vs Choctaw
6:00pm - Boys 8th Grade Football vs Sapulpa Blue
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ngs Sports Boys Varsity Football
Coed Varsity Cross Country
October 2, 2020
October 1, 2020
7:00pm - Boys Varsity Football vs Muskogee
4:00pm - Coed Varsity Cross Country at OBU
October 9, 2020
October 10, 2020
7:00pm - Boys Varsity Football at Booker T Washington
8:00am - Coed Varsity Cross Country at Edison Invitational
October 15, 2020
October 24, 2020
7:00pm - Boys Varsity Football vs Bixby
All-day - Coed Varsity Cross Country vs Regionals
October 23, 2020 7:00pm - Boys Varsity Football at Choctaw October 30, 2020 7:00pm - Boys Varsity Football vs Bartlesville
Got events? Send your event info to info@wearesandsprings.com for your event to be considered for the next We Are Sand Springs Magazine Calendar!
2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 23
Clyde Boyd Trail Distance: 1 mile Wraps around Prattville Elementary and Clyde Boyd Middle School
1 Hwy 97 & Saddle Rock Trail Distance: 2.3 miles Starting at Wilson & HWY 97 and ending at 41st & HWY 97. 24 WeAreSandSprings.com | 2020
Trails in Sand Springs, OK Sand Springs Lake Trail Distance: .9 mile Start at 81st & US 412, going North to Sand Springs Lake, passing over the dam.
2
3
Keystone Ancient Forest Distance: 6.6 miles There are many trails in Keystone Ancient Forest. Est time: 1h 58m
4
5 Katy Trail Distance: 8.1 miles Starting just south of the river and travelling US 412 passing right by downtown Sand Springs.
6 River City Trail Distance: 4.7 miles Walk, run, or ride through Case Community Park starting at the Case Center.
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For more information regarding Sand Springs parks visit wearesandsprings.com/ss-parks 28 WeAreSandSprings.com | 2020
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Sand Springs Public Schools Learning Options
Traditional
Course Delivery State Approved Curriculum High Quality Face to Face Instruction High Quality Online Instruction Teacher Instruction and Assistance
Check out Sand Springs Public Schools "District Dialogue" on YouTube. Get information on school options, decision making, and more important information regarding our awesome school system, teachers, and administrators.
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Access to Virtual Lab and Tutors Access to Campus Services
Daily Access to Counselors Participate in School Activities
Meets NCAA Chromebook Provided WiFi Hotspots available
Virtual
Blended
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 Enrollment
Serving Sand Springs Since 1990 • Not Valid with Other Offers • Offer Expires 10-31-2020
Miss Tiritas Dance & Performing Arts Studio
918.241.5637
2020 | WeAreSandSprings.com 31
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