NOVE MBE R 2021
2 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
04
Letter From The Editor
05
Celebrating the spirit of the season in Sand Springs
07
A Sandite Christmas Poem
08
New to the Scene
09
Winner Winner, Turkey Dinner!
12
The Real Meaning of Christmas
13
2021 CPHS Basketball Schedule
14
Respecting our Sandite Veterans
16
We are Thankful
18
Grateful Giving in Sand Springs
22
The History of Christmas Parades
24
Then and Now: Hall of Fame for the SSEF
28
Don't be a Scrooge
30
Happy Little Reindeer Games
CONTENTS
Landscape Photo Winner, Shannon Hamilton
Check out the rest of our Sand Springs Landscape Photo contest winners on page 9!
Let’s talk about something tough. (Don’t flip the page. We can do tough things together, Sandites!) Lately, I have noticed many of us, including myself, questioning the decisions of other people. We have been through some tough times over the last few years and I wonder if our circumstances haven’t made cynics out of some of us. So here it is.. I want to talk about the big ugly A word. Accountability. Not responsibility, but accountability. When times get tough it can be easy to look at how everyone else is handling their problems and personal growth instead of focusing on our own. This is a very human instinct (aka fight or flight) but part of being accountable is knowing when our input is hurtful and/or unhelpful we should not share it. Accountability is not the same as responsibility. Accountability is the idea that we all have to balance the ledger of the outcomes that have come about from our actions, words, and efforts. We are accountable for HOW we use the knowledge or lack of knowledge we have about a specific subject or situation. As I have been thinking about accountability over the past few months one thing has become incredibly clear. When thoughtful consideration is put into personal accountability, decisions and conversations become more fruitful. When we reflect on the outcomes of our actions we are able to make changes that better the balance of ledgers. I do want to be clear. I am not suggesting that you not stand up for something you believe will make a difference in the world. What I am saying is to remember to sweep in front of your own door first. Be humble about what you think you know, and what might just be opinion. Listen. Be kind. I love our country, state and town! Thanks for talking about the hard stuff with me, Sandites!
All the VERY best,
- Danielle Myers
PS. I think Theodore Roosevelt says it best: "It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."
Send us a letter or email: 118 N Main St Sand Springs, OK 74063 info@wearesandsprings.com • 918-521-1810 4 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
ce l e b ra t in g t he s pir it o f t he season in sand springs
This is the time of year for hot cocoa, gift giving, and the type of hospitality that fills the home, with warm feelings of community and togetherness. While turkeys are baked and ornaments are hung on the tree, take a moment to reflect on your year full of triumphs and defeats and triumphs again. Look through each month like a story book, pages filled with memories of your life, and let that inspire you to take action this holiday season to truly make a difference in our hometown of Sand Springs.
Holiday Game! I n t h is h olid ay e d i ti o n o f We ar e San d S p rin gs , we h ave i n cl u d e d 5 cl assi c h olid a y s t or yb o o k th e me s - can yo u f in d t h e m al l ? Hap p y r e ad i n g!
November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 5
The colder temperatures are officially setting in, especially during the night hours. Our pets do not need to be left outside for long hours during the day and we need to be sure we are taking the proper precautions for our animals, not only at night, but all throughout the day. We love our four-legged pets and their lives are at-risk if we are not intentional with their care during the winter. Here are some helpful tips to keep our animals safe and healthy during the cold months of the year.
Outdoor Animals It is important to be aware of the animals that are living outdoors during thewinter months. Stray cats, neighborhood cats, or other small wildlife will typically crawl in the hoods of cars to keep warm. It is always smart to bang on the hood of your car to scare off any cat, or animal that could have crawled up in the engine. Speak Out
Keep Pets Inside As the temperatures continue to drop in the fall and winter months, we should take this into consideration for our animals. Short-haired animals do not have enough hair to keep them warm enough, so they should not be left outside all through the day, and definitely not over night. Our pets with longer hair and thicker coats are able to bear the temperatures a little more, but still be aware of the time theyare spending outside. Letting your animals out to use the bathroom, or taking them on a short walk are a couple of mindful ways to give your pets the exercise they need, but also keeping them from being out in the cold temperatures for too long. With freezing temperatures and wind chill, animals lives are at risk. By simply keeping them indoors as often as possible, we are protecting our animals. Bundle Up, Wipe Off In order to keep our household pets warm while being outside, we should be bundling them up when they go on a walk, when they are let outside to play, or even if they are going out to use the restroom. Another thing to be aware of when taking pets on a walk in the winter months is the rock salt, or snow melt that is in neighborhood roads and driveways.This can irritate your animals paws, so to prevent your animals from ingesting those chemicals, or their paws becoming irritated, wipe their paws off right after their walk.
6 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
Wintertime neglect is often a concern and should be addressed. If an animal is being neglected, or not being properly taken care of during this cold season, approach the owner of that animal with your concerns. If you continue to see neglect take place, call your local animal control or county sheriff's office to communicate your concerns. Pets are deserving of proper care throughout the cold season and your role in that is so important.
A Sandite Christmas Poem Twas the days before the holidays and all Poem
Grilling, baking and recipes for plenty
throughout Sand Springs
Perfect for every stocking - let’s get twenty!
the spark of Christmas cheer was beginning to
For that cousin who has everything, they
ring!
needed to scrounge
Christmas lights were hung along
“How about a gift card from Blush
downtown with care
Hair and Makeup Lounge?”
In hopes that shoppers would find their way there
Dads arms full and kids with pieces of toffee
Store displays were ready not a toy or sweater misplaced Parents and children had their shoes on perfectly laced Stroller in the trunk, wallet in hand the whole family with so much joy they could hardly stand. When out of the car arose such excitement They jolted from their seats to
Mom suggested a break, “let's head over to Boulder Coffee!” Hot chocolate, peppermint lattes and the freshest beans around “We only need one more gift, something profound!” Hurry - before the shops close! We have to look into the windows! Frantically looking for something unique The family stumbled upon Dog and Duck
see if there was a tyrant
Antiques!
Away to the window the kids were in mystique
Old and new - they had it all
Why, that’s YellowHouse Market and Boutique!
If only they could get one of everything they saw!
Fine fashion, purses, and jewelry galore
Car packed to the brim and kids buckled in
“We HAVE to go into that store!”
“Phew - we found the best gifts for all our kin”
Bags in hands and on to the next
On their way home the kids fell asleep in a blink
Mom found herself quite perplexed
“Our town is just perfect - don’t you think?”
Dad screamed before even thinking twice
Sand Springs is not only a place to buy gifts
“Oh my - look! It’s Okie Spice!”
It’s the people and the culture that exists.
In the weeks to come the family brought their friends and family straight into downtown Sand Springs where they could visit so many more restaurants, boutiques and flower shops.
Come see what you can find on your holiday adventure in Sand Springs!
November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 7
NEW TO THE SCENE
Grab your flannel and boots and channel your inner lumberjack - Noble Axe is an axe-throwing experience for the whole family. Axe throwing is the new bowling and we are here for it! While axe-throwing has been around for generations, it's new to Downtown Sand Springs as a wonderful addition to the entertainment options in the Sandite community. Named after owner Brad's son, Noble Axe is Sand Springs' first and finest axe throwing establishment. Noble Axe made it to Sand Springs when the City of Sand Springs was looking for someone to take over the old Sand Springs Police and Fire offices building on N Lincoln Avenue, and Noble Axe was looking for a new home. Brad hopes to bring Sandites another option for entertainment right in the heart of Sand Springs. Just about anyone can enjoy axe throwing, from ages 4 to 94 and everyone in between, axe throwing is an
experience that’s sure to make for great memories. Noble Axe professionals spend time with each guest to show them the best ways to throw an axe, knife, throwing star, and/or hatchet to hit the target and release their inner lumberjack. The axe-throwing experience is complete with a list of games from point systems to tossing your hat to hook on the axe to add in some friendly competition. Noble Axe is the perfect adventure for taking date night to the next level with drinks available and a variety of throwing games to turn up the heat of competition. The Stadium Room at Noble Axe is a private room, perfect for birthday parties, groups, and families, that features 3 targets that are equally challenging and welcoming to little throwers. If you’re an experienced axe-throwing enthusiast, well, Noble Axe has Thursday Night League Night just for you! Enjoy good competition, good drinks, and good people with the Noble Axe league.
Noble Axe is the perfect activity for friends, date nights, birthday parties, groups, and more! Pricing is per-hour and is the best price in town at just $15 an hour per person.
216 N Lincoln Ave. Sand Springs, OK 740763 • www.nobleaxe.com • (539) 217-1019 https://www.facebook.com/nobleaxethrowing/ 8 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
WINNER WINNER turkey dinner! Can we get a round of applause for the We are Sand Springs Landscape Photo Contest winners?! WOW! We are amazed at the talent and beautiful landscape that Sand Springs has to offer. Two months ago, we put out a call for community members to share their photos of the Sand Springs Landscape with us and boy - WE ARE NOT disappointed with the results! Thank you to all who submitted their photos and participated this year! Make sure you follow us on social media to find out more about our future contests that you could WIN!
First Place: Shannon Hamilton
Second Place: Troy Compton
Third Place: Jeanne Grace
November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 9
10 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 11
THE REAL MEANING OF
Christmas
WRITTEN BY RUSTY GUNN
Until my first-born son was old enough to enjoy opening gifts, I was a total scrooge when it came to Christmas. I hated the music, the hustle bustle, the celebrations, and the decorations. That’s a pretty vulnerable confession for a pastor to make.
Christmas gift I had ever received. I was a fourteen year old stud-muffin, alpha male, chick-magnet, seventh grade jock, and my mom had gotten me a porcelain doll dressed up in a baseball uniform. I was soooo mad! She collected dolls, and I guess she wanted to add this one to her collection or something. So, she bought I am not sure what got me to that point. Maybe it it for me for Christmas. She said she thought I was working at Old Navy when I was in college and would like it. She was wrong. I am still scarred! hearing the 12-song Christmas CD play on a loop from November 1st through January 1st. It could I am sure there are other experiences that have been seeing people literally with tears in played into me being so un-jolly around the their eyes as they slapped down a credit card at holidays for many years, but thankfully when my register to pay a bill they knew, and I knew, my wife and I had children, we established some they couldn’t afford. You could just see it all good, healthy holiday traditions that have helped bring over their faces. me back to the real meaning of Christmas and have changed me deeply. Serving as a music minister in a traditional church may have also played The reality of God coming down to earth, putting a part as we, because of tradition, sang skin on, and walking side by side with man has become the same songs week after week and overwhelming to me. The story of Jesus and His nobody even really stopped to think birth, life, death, and resurrection is so far, the about the words we were singing. greatest story ever told. I say “so far” because the Then, at twenty-one years old, I was story is not yet complete. There is a promise found placed in charge of the church’s in the story of Jesus that He will come again for 100-year-old tradition of the Hanging those who are found in Him. The anticipation of of the Greens. I had no idea what Christmas Day and our Christmas celebrations that even meant. When it was done, should remind us and draw us into that truth. and I didn’t do it like it had always been Jesus truly is the only gift that keeps on giving done, there were a couple of ladies who let me know without end. that they “didn’t know what that was, but that was NOT the Hanging of the Greens.” This Christmas season, whether you love all things Christmas or you would rather just cancel I am sure another experience contributed to it and move on, take time to reflect on what this my bah humbug feelings toward the Christmas time is really about. Read the Christmas story from season. I was in the seventh grade, fourteen Luke chapters 1 and 2 in the Bible with your family. years old. That year there were a particularly If you’re really wanting to dig deep, also read the larger amount of Christmas gifts under the tree book of John. You will find truth that will set you free than usual for our family. I really don’t know why, to experience the Christ of Christmas like never before. but I remember a few years earlier, my mother had started a tradition of letting my sister and me open Rusty Gunn is the Lead Pastor one present early, the week before Christmas. So, the day had come for that to happen, and at Church That Matters. You I was excited about it. My sister and I looked can find more information around the boxes with our names on them. about Church That Matters at My sister picked hers. I found the heaviest box with my name on it because that must be the churchthatmatters.com best present. I opened it. It was the worst 12 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
CPHS 21-22 BASKETBALL SCHEDULE
11/02/21
11/04/21
11/09/21
11/18/21
12/03/21 12/07/21
Tuesday
Thursday
Tuesday
Thursday
Friday
Tuesday
OPPONENT: Holland Hall
OPPONENT: Cleveland
OPPONENT: NOAH
OPPONENT: NOAH
OPPONENT: Owasso
Girls Scrimmage
Boys Scrimmage
OPPONENT: Tulsa Will Rogers
Boys
Boys HOME JV: 5:30PM VARSITY: 7PM
Boys Scrimmage
HOME TBA
HOME 3:30PM
HOME 3:30PM
AWAY TBA
12/09 12/11/21
12/14/21
12/1612/18/21
12/2801/04/22 01/11/22 01/02/22
Thurs - Sat
Tuesday
Thurs - Sat Tues - Sun
OPPONENT: Tulsa Central Tournament
OPPONENT: Jenks
OPPONENT: Memorial Invitational Tournament
Girls
HOME 4/5/6:30/8
Tuesday
Tuesday
OPPONENT: Girls Folrida Tournament
OPPONENT: Booker T Washington
OPPONENT: Broken Arrow
AWAY TBA
AWAY 4/5/6:30/8
AWAY 4/5/6:30/8
Varsity Boys Only
AWAY TBA
AWAY 4/5/6:30/8
AWAY TBA
01/14/22
01/18/22
01/20 01/20 01/25/22 01/28/22 01/22/22 01/22/22
Friday
Tuesday
Thurs - Sat Thurs - Sat Tuesday
OPPONENT: Bartlesville
OPPONENT: Muskogee
OPPONENT: Port City Tournament Boys
OPPONENT: Jenks/Union Tournament Girls
OPPONENT: Bixby
OPPONENT: Sapulpa
AWAY 4/5/6:30/8
HOME 4/5/6:30/8
AWAY TBA
AWAY TBA
AWAY 4/5/6:30/8
HOME 4/5/6:30/8
02/11/22
02/15/22 02/18/22
02/01/22 02/04/22 02/8/22
Friday
Tuesday
Friday
Tuesday
Friday
Tuesday
Friday
OPPONENT: Union
OPPONENT: Owasso
OPPONENT: Jenks
OPPONENT: Booker T. Washington
OPPONENT: Broken Arrow
OPPONENT: Bartlesville
AWAY 4/5/6:30/8
AWAY 4/5/6:30/8
HOME 4/5/6:30/8
HOME 4/5/6:30/8
AWAY 4/5/6:30/8
HOME 4/5/6:30/8
02/24 03/03 03/10 02/26/22 03/05/22 03/12/22 Thurs - Sat
Thurs - Sat Thurs - Sat
OPPONENT: 6A Regional Tournament
OPPONENT: 6A Regional Tournament
OPPONENT: 6A Regional Tournament
TBA
TBA
TBA
TBA
TBA
TBA November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 13
RESPECTING OUR SANDITE VETERANS
V
eterans Day is a time for us to pay our respects
“National Veterans Awareness Week”. This United
to those who have served. For one day out of
States Senate Resolution 143 calls for educational
the year, we all intentionally stand together united in
efforts directed at elementary and secondary school
respect for our veterans.
students concerning the contributions and sacrifices of veterans. Ever since that day in 1918, the US has
The original holiday was called Armistice Day the day that the Allied powers signed a ceasefire
been making strides to improve education, unity and honoring of all veterans.
agreement with Germany bringing the war now known as World War 1 to a close. November 11th
You might notice that the word “veterans” does
became commemorated as the day that on the 11th
not include an apostrophe. That is not a preference
hour, 11th day and in the 11th month of 1918 that
- rather it is a definite and deliberate choice with
signaled the end of war. It wasn’t until 1938 that the
meaning! According to the U.S. Department of
United States recognized and declared that Armistice Veteran Affairs, Veterans Day is a day for honoring Day be a national holiday - and not until 1954 was the
veterans directly in front of us right now, not a day
name changed to Veterans Day by none other than
that belongs to veterans.
President Dwight D. Eisenhower. While Armistice Day celebrated the end of WW1, Veterans Day celebrates veterans of all wars.
In Sand Springs there are many ways to respect and care for veterans through many organizations. If you are looking for a way to support local veterans,
In 1968 the Uniform Holiday Bill ensured three-
please consider reaching out to one of the below
day weekends for federal employees. In 2001 the
organizations to see how you and your family can help
week of Nov. 11th through Nov. 17th was designated
today.
14 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
AMERICAN LEGION BILLIE A. HALL POST 17
If you would like to be involved in this organization, please call 918-928-7685.
Located at 500 N Main St, Sand Springs, the American Legion Bille A. Hall Post 17 has many events and gatherings to help raise money and awareness for veterans. On Thursdays they host a Bingo Night with a crew of veterans to man the bingo floor, a women’s quilting group on Tuesday Mornings who work hard to continue traditions, they help countless charities, and even give a few scholarships to the sandite students! To get involved with this organization, please call (918) 245-0000.
VETS THAT MATTER Vets that Matter is a group of men and women in Sand Springs and the Tulsa Metro area who are committed to providing connections to resources for our young and older veterans in or out of service. Their purpose is to fight for the lives of veterans who
We are proud to live in a town that respects, honors, celebrates and strives to provide the best resources for the veterans of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Now we take a moment to say thank you. Thank you for your hard work, dedication and sacrifice to our country. Because of you, we can truly live in the land of the free and home of the brave.
are still fighting the war, even after they return home. Vets that Matter give a hand up by building on biblical values and encouraging personal growth. November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 15
PRATT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GRADE 4 What is the best Thanksgiving Dessert?
Kenize, Grade 4 "I think sweet potato pie with marsh Mello all over the top with a buttery spring roll and a movie is the best thanksgiving dessert!"
Conner, Grade 4 "The best thanksgiving dessert is turkey. It is juicy and good for you. It is yummy!"
Domenique, Grade 4 "My favorite Thanksgiving dessert is pumpkin pie my grand dad cooks it homemade. It haves whip cream and some strawberries and blueberries. Mush the berries and put them on the top."
Why is it important to have a day of thanks?
Lila, Grade 4 "It's important to have one because think about when you were born. That is important so that is why it's important."
KRISTINA, Grade 4 "It is important to have thanks because it giving you an opportunity to thank all the people for what they gave to you."
JETT, Grade 4 "I feel the most thankful when people say good job after my race. I'm thankful I have parents and family in my life and have a lot of friends in my life." 16 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
LIMESTONE TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY GRADE 3
We Are Sand Springs Magazine wants to include all Sandites in the creation of our community’s magazine. And so, we invite all Sand Springs Elementary students to participate in our We Are Thankful prompt exercise. Select entries from each school will be included in the center spread of the magazine and ALL entries will be posted online through our website and social media platforms. We are Thankful for YOU! Go Sandites!
LIMESTONE TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY GRADE 4
ANGUS VALLY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GRADE 4
What is the best Thanksgiving Dessert?
GAGE, Grade 4
"Stuffing is the best Thanksgiving dinner. Stuffing is easy to chew and tastes really really good. Stuffing is easy to make and fills you up fast. Stuffing is good for you and is cheap. That is why I love stuffing. "
bailey, Grade 4
"Pumpkin pie and chocolate pie are the best deserts. Pumpkin is good for anything. Chocolate is really good, i eat it every day. Pumpkin pie is really soft. And chocolate is really routh. That is why i love chocolate and pumpkin pie. "
When do you feel the most Thankful?
Leo, Grade 4
"I'm thankful for my family. Because we love each other. We throw axes ninja stars too.we also play laser tag Then we give jokes the end."
Leighton, Grade 4
"I am thankful for my family and dogs. I am thankful for them because my family cares about me.and my dogs protect me my dogs are sweet and cuddly one is crazy but the other is not.My family is sweet ,kind and there when i am sad. I love them whenever i'm in need they are there.I am thankful for my family and dogs."
ADDELYN, Grade 4
"When I feel most thankful is when I'm with my family. When we go to the park together and play soccer. We all play yahtzee together. We enjoy having family movie nights. I enjoy spending time with my family. Love Addy!" November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 17
Hey Sand Springs, it’s that time of year again, you know what we mean. No… it’s not the Pumpkin Spice Latte, or the Peppermint Mocha… well, it could be. It’s Shop Small Business Saturday!
3.
You Matter More: Everytime you purchase anything you are placing your influence into the community.
Your influence says, I choose you. When you choose not to purchase something, you are putting your influence somewhere else; you are basically voting with your wallet.
Every year we are reminded that small businesses need Your purchase holds a greater weight with small businesses. our support. But in Sand Springs, we know this year round.
Supporting small businesses allows for them to continue
We know you don’t need more reasons to shop local in all
giving the amazing customer service small businesses are
areas of Sand Springs, Prattville, and beyond, but we just
known for.
couldn’t resist: Vote with your wallet during this time of year, and
1.
Local Economic Stimulus: When more dollars are spent
throughout all year long. Vote for your next door neighbors,
at locally owned businesses more of the dollars are
vote for the parents of your kids friend at school, vote for
kept locally. Small business owners usually buy from locally
Sand Springs.
owned businesses as well, keeping money flowing through the community rather than being sent away from it.
2.
To aid in your shopping local, this year WeAreSandSprings.com will be hosting a place where
Local Business Owners Invest in the Community: Local all local business owners can share their specials, deals, businesses are, naturally, owned by people that live in
offers, discounts, or anything else they want to share with
the community. People that live in the community and are
the community for Small Business Saturday! Head over to
not likely to uproot themselves and their businesses are
wearesandsprings.com/sandites-shop-small or scan the QR
invested in the long term success of the community.
code below and see all the listings!
PSST… to all local business owners, to make this work, we need to know your specials, deals, offers, discounts, and offerings this season! Head over to wearesandsprings.com/sandites-shop-small and fill out the form on the page to get your FREE listing! Let’s make it the easiest season for Sand Springs to support all the locally owned businesses that make Sand Springs GREAT!
18 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
SCAN TO SEE LISTINGS!
LOCAL EVENTS IN SAND SPRINGS
nov. 6
DEC. 4 & 5
ALL THINGS CRAFTY
SCROOGE’S CHRISTMAS
ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR
DEC 4TH 2PM & 7PM;
9AM - 3PM Case Community Center, Sand Springs An arts and crafts fair, hosting vendors from all over Oklahoma.
nov. 11 GSA-CHOIR PERFORMANCE VETERAN'S DAY 1:00PM TO 1:30PM 2nd Grade Choir Performance for Veterans Day - Heroes in Our Neighborhood
nov. 13 SHOP SMALL HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Downtown Sand Springs Several stores will be open for shopping throughout the day,
2 ANGELS TOY RUN 10:00AM CHECK-IN 6305 W. 40th St. Tulsa, OK The run is open to anyone including Hot Rods, Classic Cars, Customs, Jeeps and Motorcycles. There is no entry fee please just bring new, unwrapped toys for the toy run! For more info, please visit www. churchthatmatters. com/2angelstoyrun
nov. 13 DEC. 13 WINDOW PAINTING SCAVANGER HUNT Daily throughout the City of Sand Springs by the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce
SSPS Auditorium (4th & Garfield)
DEC. 11 CHRISTMAS AT THE PARK KEYSTONE STATE PARK 1926 HWY 151 SAND SPRINGS, OK 74063 Keystone State Park hosts Christmas at the Park just in time for
DEC. 1 DEC. 31
all the exciting winter
ART OF GIVING CHRISTMAS TREE DISPLAY SAND SPRINGS CULTURAL & HISTORICAL MUSEUM The Art of Giving Christmas Tree Display is put on by the Sand Springs Museum. Please check the Museum for hours of operation.
Sand Springs state
DEC. 3
deC. 20 jan. 2
check store hours for operation.
DEC 5TH 2PM
NOV. 14
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS CHRISTMAS PARADE 7 PM, DOWNTOWN SAND SPRINGS Our theme for the 2021 parade will be: “THE JOY OF GIVING”. Christmas is a time for giving and receiving gifts. Making someone’s life BRIGHTER during the holidays is a gift for the giver and receiver.
festivities. Bring the whole family to this park for a variety of holiday-themed events. Guests are invited to pose for photos with Santa, browse the onsite vendors, munch on caramel apples and create winter crafts.
SSPS CHRISTMAS BREAK
DEC. 21 WREATH LAYING CEREMONY AND VIGIL 12PM - 1:30PM, VIGIL UNTIL DUSK Charles Page Triangle Park
Editor’s Note: Due to the ongoing pandemic and weather events, event listings (including date, time, and location) are subject to change. Please contact the event organizer directly with questions.
November 2021 | WeAreSandSprings.com 19
Grateful Giving
IN SAND SPRINGS
Around the holidays community service moves to the top of the to do list for many families and organizations in Sand Springs. Sharing with each other and supporting the families and individuals in our community is what holidays are really all about for Sandites! This year, take time in your schedule to serve the Sand Springs community with your family and make a difference in the lives around you. Keep the holiday cheer spreading by having a grateful and giving heart. In addition to volunteering another way to do that is by sharing other volunteer opportunities. Send your service project and/or opportunity to give to info@wearesandsprings.com or tag us in your opportunity online.
Below are just a few of the service opportunities that are available this holiday season: UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
CANDLELIGHT
Thanksgiving day, November 25th
december 1st
11PM - UNTIL ALL
tear down, crowd
MEALS ARE OUT
management, traffic
Volunteers needed
control
are to: Deliver
Contact Matt
meals!
Barnett for more
Families and
information:
individuals can sign
Matt.Barnett@
up when they arrive
hillspring.tv
SINGALONG
Volunteers needed are to: Set up and
and they can deliver to the homes.
SALVATION ARMY: DAY OF RINGING
CHRISTMAS PARADE
SHOP LOCAL FEST
You can sign up for shifts of 2 hours, 4 hours, or 6 hours
december 3rd
december 11th
Volunteers needed
Volunteers needed
are to: Help with
are to: Set up and
traffic & lining up
tear down, crowd
floats
management,
Contact Debbie
Traffic control
Noble for more
Contact Mary
information:
Eubanks for more
danobles@aep.com
information
Volunteers needed are to: Ring Bells for the Day of Ringing. Red Kettles are placed in front of participating businesses where you can volunteer to adopt as many bell ringing locations as you can!
Contact Lt. Zachary Good:
zachary.good@uss. salvationarmy.org
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Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa patron saint of Children. It is said that he gave away Claus right down Broadway and 2nd Streeeeet! Christmas Parades, also known as Santa Claus Parades (or in our case, Festival of light) are the official opening of the Christmas Season. Lights, dancing, candy, floats, and bands playing Christmas music that fills the chilly air. But why did Christmas parades start?
all his inherited wealth and traveled along the countryside helping the poor and sick. St. Nicholas’ reputation quickly spread around the world, and made its first appearance in American popular culture towards the end of the 18th century. A man by the name of Sinter Klaas hand carved and distributed wood carvings of St. Nicholas at the New York Historical Society annual meeting. And
First things first, we have to address the thus the image and character of Santa Claus was elephant in the room - Santa Claus. Santa Claus widely recognized and spread. - also known as Saint Nicholas or Kris Kringle is a character that is mainly associated with a jolly man
Now as we enter the Christmas season Santa
in red who delivers toys to good girls and boys. Claus is the poster character for all things jolly and However his story stretches back all the way to bright - such as Christmas Parades! Christmas the third century, when Saint Nicholas became the Parades are widely known and put on in the
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United States. The Christmas Parade is a direct descendant of late Medieval and Renaissance revivals of Roman Triumphs filled with loud music, dancing, banners and ended with the leader riding in a chariot pulled by two horses. Children of today now wait in anticipation for Santa Claus to ride through the streets on the last float to sound off his loud joyful laugh and reminding children to be good because:
“He's making a list And checking it twice; Gonna find out Who's naughty & nice Santa Claus is coming to town He sees you when you're sleeping He knows when you're awake He knows if you've been bad or good So be good for goodness sake!"
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Then and Now: Hall of Fame for the SSEF In 1988, the Montie Box Company celebrated its 30th year in business and held a birthday party of sorts where the “gifts” from attendees were to be something to give back in support of the Sand Springs schools. From a humble idea the Sand Springs Education Foundation was born into what now raises over $65,000 in grants every year to assist our teachers in their grand ideas to educate the next generation in the best way possible. The SSEF’s mission is to be a private partner to the Sand Springs Public Schools, and help to support creative and innovative projects that cannot be funded by local, state or federal means.
Excerpt from SSEF Foundation Flyer
Sand Springs has a myriad of community members who have come and gone to do great things. The Sand Springs Hall of Fame accepts 2 - 3 nominees every year for their outstanding citizenship and involvement with Sand Springs. Each member then serves three years assisting in the development, duties and responsibilities of the Sand Springs Education Foundation Board. In 2021 the Sand Springs Hall of Fame made a move from the Ed Dubie Fieldhouse to Bright Morning Farms. This year alone the SSEF has given out 60 grants, in the time that the SSEF has operated it has raised and given over 1 million dollars in grants. And their Hall of Fame has grown to an Sand Springs Education Foundation, 1991 24 WeAreSandSprings.com | Novemeber 2021
outstanding 71 inductees since 1990. Raising this kind of money is no easy feat but with generous donors, an annual golf tournament and Hall of Fame induction dinner the board strives to make it all happen. Over the years grants have been awarded to music programs who need to purchase instruments, smart board installs into classrooms and help exercise programs get off the ground. Any and all teachers within the Sand Springs Public Schools district can apply for grants. During the fall semester, the SSEF board gathers to go over each grant application meticulously, and then delivers the grants during the week of Thanksgiving. If you or someone you know would like to apply for a grant, or donate to the SSEF, please visit the Sand Springs Education Foundation website.
SSEF History Presentation
Photos from 2021 SSEF Events
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FREE PAGE
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A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens, presents an elderly miser by the name of Ebenezer Scrooge. Scrooge is visited by three spirits - Christmas past,
1.
Hit the craft closet with all ya got! Spread out the crayons, glue, scissors, construction paper
and more to make your very own ornament for your
present and future. After their visits he is transformed
Christmas tree! Whether you include words like Joy
into a much kinder and gentler man.
and Peace - or a family photo - it's sure to look stunning on your very own Christmas tree at home. Have extra
The majority of us have probably watched A Christmas Carol a time or two and are familiar with the idea of a “scrooge”. But for those who aren’t - a scrooge is a person who is unwilling to give to others. Words with the same meaning are miserly and stingy. In your lifetime you may have met a scrooge
supplies? Create an ornament for someone special remember it’s the thought that counts!
2.
Set your sights for the kitchen - because that’s where we're going next! Check out an
old cookbook or Pinterest for an inspirational recipe
personally, or even had the joy of watching a scrooge
for a yummy sweet treat. After baking with your
transform into a kinder and gentler person.
kiddos, family or friend, take your baked goods - after testing them of course - to an elderly couple in your
If you're feeling a little “scrooge-ish” this year,
neighborhood, church or community! Sharing your
here's a few ideas to kick in the Sandite spirit to enjoy
hard work with the Sand Springs community always
the holidays this year!
brings about a warm and joyous feeling.
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3.
Grab a journal and write about the things in
new faces, visiting with loved ones, or visiting with someone
your life that you have control over! There are
from your neighborhood, church, or community who is lonely
lots of things that are outside of our control, but the
this season to spread Sandite cheer. The more Sandite
things we do have in our control (behavior, choosing
cheer you spread, the more you’ll feel!
thoughts) allow us to steer the direction of our life.
4.
Take a walk! Fresh air along with mild exercise allows for our minds to stop focusing on the
problems we are facing and start to look at the big
7.
And as Scrooge taught us: “I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live
in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me.”
picture. Feelin’ a little less scrooge-y now? Enjoy the holidays
5.
Give to a Friend - Feelin’ energized yet? Be
by indulging the town of Sand Springs, giving to your
the opposite of a scrooge and explore the
community, and spending time taking care of yourself this
abundance of gift options in downtown Sand Springs’
holiday season.
own local businesses! Find something for anyone in your life (or someone new!) at local businesses, owned
Want to share with us what you are
by members of the Sandite community who do a happy dance with every sale, and give back to the community while giving to others!
6.
The Gift of Time - As we move through our busy
doing through the holidays to keep the spirit of Christmas alive and well? Tag
day-to-day lives, it’s easy to overlook the greatest
us in your photos on Instagram and
Capture town of Sand gift of all - TIME with our eachbeautiful other. The Sandite spiritSprings is alive and share it with the world by entering the Weare are Sand Springs: Sand Springs Landscape Photos Contest. Pull out your camera wherever we together - whether it’s family, friends, or
Facebook - we’ll see ya there!
whether that’s your phone or your DSL, and take a shot at getting your photograph in new acquaintances, spending time with one another keeps the We are Sand Springs Magazine, and posted online to our social media pages! We Christmas in our hearts. Give the gift of time by smiling at are beyond excited to see the keen eye of the citizens of Sand Springs and bring to life the brilliant landscapes of Sand Springs Oklahoma.
SUBMIT YOUR BEST SAND SPRINGS LANDSCAPE PHOTO INTO THIS YEAR’S LANDSCAPE PHOTO CONTEST PRESENTED BY WE ARE SAND SPRINGS MAGAZINE! • Get your photo featured in the November issue of We are Sand Springs Magazine • Post your photo on social media and tag us @wearesandsprings • Submit your photos to info@wearesandsprings.com Winners will be announced via social media on November 1, 2021, and will have their photo printed in the We are Sand Springs Magazine that is distributed to every home in Sand Springs!
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HAPPY L I TTLE RE I N D E E R GA ME S! We wanted to do something fun for
We would like to give a big shoutout to
the holidays in this magazine but couldn’t
Myers Marketing Management for helping
quite put our finger on what to do. In
bring Reindeer Games to life. Myers
a planning meeting with our parent
Marketing Management is dedicated to
company Myers Marketing Management
Sand Springs and is the official sponsor
the idea came up to develop a game that
for the Reindeer Games this edition of the
Sandites of all ages would enjoy and be
magazine. “We love Sand Springs and all
able to participate in and boy were there
of the adventures that can be found in our
some wild ideas flying around. Ultimately,
sweet little community! There is no place
we knew that WHATEVER we landed on
like it and we are excited to see what
it had to be in the true nature of Sand
everyone will do with Reindeer Games this
Springs, friendly and genuine. insert,
holiday season.”, Danielle Myers- CEO of
Reindeer Games!
Myers Marketing Management
This Reindeer was created to be
Myers Marketing Management (MMM)
the Sandite Sidekick for all seasonal
is a full service marketing firm that began
festivities. Dinners, hikes, shopping,
right here in Sand Springs. The team at
landscaping, cooking, decorating, coffee
MMM now serves businesses throughout
dates, game nights, fishing, and anything
the state of Oklahoma. They specialize
else that makes your heart sing this
in partnering with organizations that
season Sandites. Whether you cut him out
are focused on growth. This partnership
and carry him along or you customize how
focuses on the development and execution
he will travel with you, he is yours to make
of strategies designed to accomplish
memories with. We do want to see what
defined goals. To learn more about the
you and Mr. Reindeer have been up to so
service offered by Myers Marketing
we do ask that you tag us (We Are Sand
Management visit them online at
Springs) in your photos on Facebook or
MyersMM.com.
Instagram.
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Say hello to the newest edition to your holiday adventures! Simply cut out your reindeer friend, give him a name, take a photo while on a Sand Springs adventure, and tag us in your post! Check out the Calendar of Events in this edition of the We are Sand Springs Magazine on page 19!
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