Blue Dog art takes Sand Springs by storm

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Blue dogs have invaded Sand Springs, Oklahoma. No, nobody is dyeing their pets. Louisana artist George Rodrigue's interpretation of the Cajun werewolf has migrated northwest thanks to the efforts of a local art teacher and the Sand Springs Small Business Coalition.

The Blue Dog series catapulted Rodrigue to international acclaim in the 1990's when it was used in ad campaigns by Absolut Vodka and Xerox Corporation.

The dog's fame hasn't tapered off a bit in Sand Springs, where students at Northwoods Fine Arts Academy create their own Blue Dogs every year in Jennifer Barretto's class. 

Student paintings have been on display around Sand Springs this past year as the town has made increased efforts to patronize the arts and celebrate the efforts of the kids. The works have made their way into various businesses as well as the Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum.

The Sand Springs Small Business Coalition recently held an Art in the Park showcase on the downtown Triangle Park with vendors, food trucks, and live music. That event raised more than $1,000 to help bring an authentic Blue Dog exhibit to the Sand Springs Museum.

Barretto is working to raise $18,000 to bring original Blue Dog paintings to the museum from November through February. The money will cover transportation, insurance, new security for the museum, and a full time security guard for the length of the exhibit. 

Many local business owners believe that bringing Blue Dog to town could be a huge economic stimulant, attracting thousands of art connoisseurs who would also spend money at local shops, restaurants, convenience stores, etc. 

On Tuesday, May 15th, Barretto will be hosting a "Paint Your Own Blue Dog" event at Northwoods. She will provide canvas and supplies for $25 as a fundraiser for the exhibit. She plans to host another painting session as more of a date night in the near future with hors d'oeuvre and wine. 

The exhibit funding is closing in on $5,000, and an anonymous donor has pledged to match that amount which would bring the total to $10,000. The full amount must be raised by September.

Sand Springs City Councilman and House District 66 candidate Brian Jackson has called on his fellow Oklahoma Rotarians to support bringing Blue Dog to Oklahoma for the first time. 

In addition to a Go Fund Me account, Barretto is also selling raffle tickets for an original Blue Dog print, which will be given away during the grand opening of the exhibit. 

Barretto is heavily involved in the community, working as a realtor in addition to teaching. She serves on the Small Business Coalition, the Museum Association Board, and is helping to launch an Art Council in Sand Springs.

For more information on the Blue Dog exhibit, contact Barretto at jennifer.barretto@sandites.org or 918-850-1902.

Board of Education approves new wrestling and girls' basketball coaches

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The Sand Springs Public School District Board of Education presented more than twenty awards during their Monday night regularly monthly meeting.

Remington Wagner was presented with a Sandite Spirit Award in recognition of her All-Region Cheer Team achievement. Wagner is signed to cheer at Southwestern Christian University next year and will study Kinesiology. 

Colt Savage was presented with a Sandite Spirit Award for his success with the boys' basketball team. Savage concluded his high school career as a four-time All Conference player and was named the 2017-2018 Oklahoma Basketball Coaches Association Player of the Year for Region 7. He led his team in scoring for two seasons and averaged 20.58 points per game as a senior. He will play for the University of Central Oklahoma next season. 

Eric Savage was presented with a Pacesetter Award in recognition of his success with the Sandite Basketball Team. Savage wrapped up his fifth season as Head Coach with the first State Tournament appearance for Sand Springs since 1963 and was named the Frontier Valley Conference Coach of the Year. He holds a 65-62 record in Sand Springs and a career record of 370-155. After winning three 5A State Titles at Tulsa Memorial High School, he took over a Sandite program that had only won one game the year before. 

Jeff Cooper was presented with a Pacesetter Award. Cooper was awarded the Oklahoma Basketball Coaches Association "Friends of Basketball" award and was named the Region 7 Junior High Coach of the Year.

Barbie Jackson was presented with a Pacesetter Award for her work with the Sand Springs Education Association during the last legislative session and teacher walkout. "(Jackson) worked tirelessly to keep everyone informed," said Board member Krista Polanski. "Barbie has a big heart and she puts all of her heart into everything she does."

Shawn Beard, Sherry Durkee, Karen Biggs, Laura Hamilton, Ernie Kothe, Angelia Noel, Nancy Ogle, Sean Parker, Sherry Pearson, Renee Plant, Russell Ragland, Danese Tanner, Stan Trout, Kristin Arnold, Rob Miller, and Greg Morris were all presented with Sandite Coins of Excellence for their work during the teacher walkout. 

Superintendent Sherry Durkee spoke on the difficulty the schools are facing regarding the teacher pay raise package passed by the Oklahoma Legislature during the last session. 

The political action group Oklahoma Taxpayers Unite has filed a veto referendum petition to put House Bill 1010xx to a vote of the people. If the petition garners 41,000 signatures by July 18, Oklahoma voters will decide whether to approve or veto the bill, which provides funding for a $6,100 average pay raise for Oklahoma teachers. 

HB1010xx is expected to raise $447 million in revenue by increasing the gross production tax to 5% on all oil wells, increasing the cigarette tax by $1 per pack, increasing the gasoline tax by three cents, and increasing the diesel tax by six cents. 

If the petition succeeds, the question of whether to approve HB1010xx won't appear on ballots until the November election. With the school year beginning in August, schools are waiting on an Attorney General ruling on whether or not the districts should enact teacher raises for this school year.

If schools enact raises in August and voters reject HB1010xx in November, it would create a massive revenue shortage for districts across the state. Teacher pay raises will cost the Sand Springs district nearly $3 million in the next school year.

In other news:

Charles Page High School will host a new interior design program in partnership with Tulsa Tech during the next school year. 

Superintendent Durkee said she's pleased with the applicant pool the district recently had for several high profile positions. The District recently began accepting applications for Head Girls' Basketball Coach, Head Wrestling Coach, Head Volleyball Coach, and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum. 

The Board approved the hiring of new Head Coaches for Wrestling and Girls' Basketball.

Tobey Nightingale will take over the Lady Sandite Basketball team after coaching Hennessey High School to a 9-16 record at the 3A level last season. The Lady Sandites are coming off an 18-8 season and back-to-back State Tournament appearances. 

Jarrod Patterson will take over a Sandite Wrestling program that placed third in the State Tournament in 2018 and won State and Dual State titles in 2017. The Sandites finished last season with a 13-4 dual record and won 25-straight duals over two seasons. 

Ryan Skaggs, owner/operator of Precision Outdoor Services, spoke regarding the bidding process for lawncare services in the school district. According to Skaggs, his company underbid the existing provider by $6,000, but his competitor was allowed to rebid to undercut Precision. Skaggs called on the district to go to a sealed bidding process in the future. 

The district is in the process of implementing "Crisis Go," an emergency system that alerts staff, students, parents, and law enforcement of any potential threat on campus. Durkee expects to have the system fully online by the next school year. 

Assistant Superintendent Rob Miller is in his last month with the Sand Springs district and will be taking over as Superintendent of Bixby Public Schools on June 1st. 

The Charles Page Class of 2018 graduation ceremonies will be held Saturday, May 12th at 7:30 p.m. at the Oral Roberts University Mabee Center.

CPHS Percussion places second at State Championship

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The Charles Page High School Band took second place at Saturday's Winter Guard and Percussion of Oklahoma State Championships in the Scholastic Marching competition.

The Sandites came in runner-up to Edison Preparatory with a total score of 80.45 to Edison's 81.5. Coweta came in runner-up at 79.1.

Clyde Boyd Percussion was the only school to enter the Middle School competition and brought home the first place trophy. 

 

Angus Elementary students raise $1037 for Make a Wish Foundation

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Lots of wishes will be coming true this year thanks to the efforts of students at Angus Valley Elementary in Sand Springs.

Lilli Searcy, Allie Bradshaw, and Caryss Upton recently held a coin drive at their school to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The drive lasted less than two weeks and raised over $1037. 

The fourth-grade girls participate in a life group at HillSpring Church which makes fleece blankets for Make-A-Wish kids. Searcy leads the group together with her mother, Lindsey, who introduced her to the organization. The money will go to providing supplies for the group.

Make-A-Wish aims to grant the wishes of every child diagnosed with a critical illness. The kids often spend a lot of time in hospitals and a homemade blanket can provide a source of warmth and comfort to children with way too much on their plate. 

 

Sand Springs Schools return to session after eight-day strike

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After eight days of school closure, Sand Springs Public Schools will return to session Thursday, April 12th. 

Teachers from the district have been participating in a statewide walkout to protest low wages and inadequate school funding.

Tens of thousands of protesters have visited the State Capitol in the past two weeks to lobby for increased school funding, and supporters could be seen on street corners in towns across the state waving posters and banners even through rain, sleet, and bitter cold. 

The State Legislature has thus far failed to meet the full demands of the Oklahoma Educators Association, but has passed revenue-raising measures including teacher pay raises averaging $6,100, as well as some general education funding. 

Sand Springs Superintendent Sherry Durkee issued the following press release Tuesday evening after a district meeting with teachers and administrators. 

"Thank you for your continued support of our district and teachers during the last few weeks. We understand that it has been a difficult and emotional time for everyone. Our teachers and administration have been in constant communication during this time. We pride ourselves on our ability to constructively collaborate together ensuring we make positive decisions for students. Our community’s support has been extraordinary and we are thankful to be Sandites.

"After a meeting late this afternoon with teachers and administrators, our Sandite family decided to resume school on Thursday, April 12. Also today, Governor Fallin signed the Ball and Dice bill (HB 1013xx) and the Internet Sales bill (HB 1019xx) raising an additional $44 million dollars in state revenue. We are extremely proud of the courageousness of our Sandites to advocate for the future of public education in Oklahoma and for the thousands of students their advocacy will benefit. Teachers, parents, community members, business leaders, and our faith community united fiercely together for a noble, common purpose. We are extremely thankful for legislators who choose to boldly make the decisions to vote in support of public education. Our job is not finished. Advocacy must continue. We will be sending additional information to our parents and patrons to keep people informed of our next steps. Stay tuned and stay with us.

"Beginning Monday, April 16, an additional 15 minutes will be added to each day to make up for lost instructional time. Our students’ last day of class remains the same, May 25th.

"Those of you in the community who spent countless hours serving our students with the provision of food and childcare are heroes in our hearts. We truly are blessed to reside in an amazing city full of people who are willing to serve in such a powerful way. Thank you to all who served in this way.

"Thank you for your support of Sand Springs Schools, the investment in the future of public education in Oklahoma and for continuing to keep an open dialog during this time. We remain committed to providing the best possible education to our students.

Lastly, take the time to thank our teachers. They are resilient, tireless, and extraordinary people. I am in awe."

Oklahoma Legislature approves $40 million in new revenue for education

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OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate on Friday approved measures that will send millions of new dollars into Oklahoma classrooms.

The Senate gave approval to HB 1019xx, a bill that requires online marketplaces like Amazon to collect and remit sales tax to Oklahoma or comply with the state’s notification requirements. The Oklahoma Tax Commission estimates the bill will generate $20.5 million annually.

“The Oklahoma Senate has shown repeatedly its commitment to students and teachers first by passing the largest teacher pay raise in state history and now by approving measures providing millions of dollars in new funding for Oklahoma classrooms,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus.

The Oklahoma Senate last week approved a teacher pay raise bill, giving Oklahoma teachers a $6,100 pay raise on average. The pay raise bill already has been signed into law. To fund the teacher pay raises and provide millions of dollars in funding for textbooks and teacher health care benefits, the Senate also gave approval to revenue measures generating $530 million in new, recurring revenue to fully and perpetually fund the raises and increased education spending.

“Increasing average teacher pay in Oklahoma to the second-highest in our region and putting more dollars into the classroom will help us retain and recruit quality, professional educators to help our students and our state succeed. As we move forward, the Senate stands committed to considering additional ways to put more dollars into our classrooms, as wells as reforms that best serve students, parents and teachers,” Schulz said.

The Senate on Friday also gave approval to HB 3375, the so-called “ball and dice” gaming bill. For the current fiscal year, the Oklahoma Tax Commission cannot certify revenue generated by this bill. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services, the state’s gaming compliance agency, anticipates the measure will bring new revenue into the state.

Last week, the Oklahoma Senate approved the FY’19 education budget bill, only the second time the April 1 “Fund Education First” deadline has been met by the Legislature. The education budget, which has been signed into law, allocates more than $2.9 billion to Oklahoma schools, a 19 percent increase from the previous year.

Joy Hofmeister, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, made the following remarks today after the passage in the Senate of House Bill 1019XX and House Bill 3375, which will add nearly $40 million in dedicated funding to common education:

“What we have seen at the Capitol this past week has been groundbreaking. Over the past several days, it has been my privilege to engage hundreds of teachers in face-to-face conversations and to witness firsthand their tireless advocacy to ensure that their students and classrooms have the resources for learning.

“On the heels of landmark legislation signed into law just last week, common education now has received an infusion of nearly $500 million in new revenue. I am grateful for the bipartisan efforts of legislators who have done the right thing to reverse a decade of funding challenges that failed to keep pace with student enrollment and need. The legislation passed this week is tremendous progress, but our students and their education will require continued investment and advocacy for years to come.

“Teachers, your stories have been heard at the Capitol and across the nation. These gains are the result of your fight for kids. I know your hearts are in the classroom. I am inspired by your years of dedication, humbled by your sacrifices and proud of your accomplishments.”

Board of Education meeting focuses on teacher walkout and school closures

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The Sand Springs Public Schools Board of Education met in a regular monthly meeting Monday evening and spent most of the session discussing the ongoing Oklahoma teacher walkout.

Superintendent Sherry Durkee discussed HB1010xx, HB3705 and other pieces of legislation from the current session. The Oklahoma legislature recently passed bills generating teacher pay raises averaging $6,100, but failed to satisfy Oklahoma Educators' Association demands for general classroom funding.

A majority of the Sand Springs teaching staff is participating in a statewide walkout at press time and Thursday will mark the fourth day of school closures due to understaffing. Many district employees are lobbying at the Capitol and scores of supporters have been occupying street corners at major intersections in Sand Springs, holding signs in support of the walkout. 

"I think that we have a great set of staff that love kids and are trying really hard to do the right thing and make it better for our kids," said Durkee.

The district has two unused "snow days" left, so students can miss school till Tuesday without having to extend the school year. If the strike lasts past that point, the district may add additional days to the school year, and could add extra time to the school day. Teachers will have to make up each missed day in professional development even after the students are dismissed for the summer, regardless of snow days.

The Board also presented four Sandite Spirit Awards and two Pacesetter Awards.

Mason Turgeon received a Sandite Spirit Award for building a set of wooden stairs for an elementary school ball pit as part of his Eagle Scout project. 

Jacelyn Smith, Juliana Shipman, and Erin Smith received Sandite Spirit Awards for helping a fellow student. The girls noticed one of their classmates' shoes were falling apart so they purchased a brand new pair of shoes from their own money. 

Andrea Bays, Caroline Brown, and Janet Thompson were presented with Pacesetter Awards. The three teachers head up the Charles Page High School Business Professionals of America and helped raise $750 for Sandite Special Olympics at their annual fundraiser.

Sand Springs Schools to close Monday for teacher walkout, possibly longer

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The Sand Springs Public School District will be closed Monday, April 2 due to insufficient staffing. 

According to a district survey, 63% of teachers intend to strike in protest of insufficient state funding. Many will be heading to the State Capitol to lobby for increased funding from the State legislature. 

"Although we would like to provide preparation time, we are only able to give notice one day at a time," said a public statement. "We will keep you updated through our social media, district website, local media and our messaging system."

Many local organizations have come together to help pick up the load that the schools normally carry, including meals and childcare. Free meals can be found at the following location for the duration of the teach walkout. Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Anyone with questions can contact Mikael Howard at 918-246-1400 or mikael.howard@sandites.org. 

Salvation Army (lunch and breakfast) - 4403 South 129th West Avenue, Sand Springs.
Lake Methodist Church (lunch and breakfast) - 7750 West 14th Street, Tulsa.
Garfield STEAM Academy (lunch and breakfast) - 701 North Roosevelt Avenue, Sand Springs.
Olivet Baptist Church (lunch) - 155 North 65th West Avenue, Tulsa. 
Harvest Church West Tulsa (breakfast) - 331 South 49th West Avenue, Tulsa. 
Church That Matters (lunch) - 3 West 41st Street, Sand Springs.
River Oaks Community Center (lunch) - 4800 West 16th Street, Sand Springs.

The Sand Springs School Board and Sand Springs City Council both passed unanimous declarations of support for teachers who choose to walk out. The district currently has six unused snow days, but if the walkout lasts longer than that, the school year will have to be extended. 

SEE RELATED: SSPS Superintendent Durkee addresses teacher walkouts at District Dialogue
SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council approves resolution of support for teachers
SEE RELATED: Sand Springs Board of Education approves resolution of solidarity with teacher walk-out

Tulsa Technology Center and Tulsa Community College will both be open during the walkout and district transportation to those schools will continue as usual. Students will be able to meet the bus at Charles Page High School for transportation. All extracurricular and athletic activities will continue, including Prom and Graduation. 

The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Clubs of the Tulsa Metro area will be providing a free Education Alternative for the duration of the walkout, including their Sand Springs location at 4403 South 129th West Avenue. Space is limited at each location. The club is open to children ages five to seventeen from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m, Monday through Friday. Volunteers are needed and can reach Charity Mitchell at 918-587-7801 or at charity.mitchell@uss.salvationarmy.org. Other clubs are located at: 

Boys & Girls Club Broken Arrow – 918-258-7545, 1400 W. Washington, Broken Arrow, 74012
Boys & Girls Club Creek County/Sapulpa – 918-224-4415, 1721 S. Hickory, Sapulpa, 74066
Boys & Girls Club Sand Springs – 918-245-2237, 4403 S. 129th West Ave., Sand Springs, 74063
Mabee Red Shield Boys & Girls Club – 918-834-2464, 1231 N. Harvard, Tulsa, OK 74115
North Mabee Boys & Girls Club – 918-425-7534, 3001 N Cincinnati, Tulsa, OK 74106
West Mabee Boys & Girls Club – 918-582-4327, 2143 S Olympia, Tulsa, OK 74107

Governor Mary Fallin recently signed a revenue package funding an average pay raise of $6,100 for teachers and $50 million in general education funding. The bill increased the gross production tax on oil wells to 5%, increased the cigarette tax by $1.00 per pack, increased gasoline tax by $0.03 a gallon and the diesel tax by $0.06 a gallon. 

However, the Oklahoma Education Association previously announced demands of $10,000 in teacher pay raises, as well as $5,000 raises for support staff, $213 million in state employee raises, $200 million in public school funding, and $255.9 million in health care funding. The OEA has not backed down from its demands at press time and are still calling for a walkout.

Tulsa Boys' Home 4th Annual Derby Dash 5K approaches

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The Fourth Annual Derby Dash 5K and Fun Run will be held on April 14, 2018 at the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Park in Tulsa. The race will benefit the Tulsa Boys' Home in Sand Springs.

The 5K race begins at 9:00 a.m. and is immediately followed by the fun run. Participation is $30 for the 5K and $15 for the one-mile fun run. Kids under twelve years of age pay $25 for the 5K and $10 for the fun run. Click HERE to register for the event. 

The Derby Dash pre-race packet pick up will be Friday, April 13th from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the New Balance store located at 2030 Utica Street, Tulsa. 

The course is a USA Track and Field certified route that starts and finishes at Turkey Mountain. Participants will run on paved trails and City streets. The park is located at 6800 South Elwood Avenue in Tulsa. 

Awards will be presented to the top three overall male and female 5K winners, and the top three finishers of the fun run. 

The Tulsa Boys' Home serves at-risk Oklahoma youth on a 150-acre facility in Sand Springs. The nonprofit provides a home, school, and positive learning environment for forty wards of the State and 24 privately-placed youth with substance abuse problems. 

SEE RELATED: Tulsa Boys' Home celebrates 100 years of miracles in 2018

Senate passes revenue package to fund teacher pay raises, Fallin pledges to sign bills

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OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma Senate on Wednesday passed a historic revenue package to fund a $6,100, or 16 percent, pay raise on average for Oklahoma teachers. That increase moves Oklahoma from seventh to second highest in the region in average teacher pay and is the largest teacher pay raise in the history of the state.

“The Oklahoma Senate took a historic step that will have positive and long-lasting impacts on the success of our state," said Senate Pro Tem Mike Schulz, R-Altus. "One of the most important factors in the success of our students is a quality, professional teacher in the classroom. Passing the largest teacher pay raise in state history moves us to No. 2 in the region in average teacher pay and will help Oklahoma retain quality teachers. It’s a significant investment in economic development because an educated workforce is essential to growing and expanding our economy. For more than 15 months, the Senate has worked tirelessly to fund a significant teacher pay raise. This is a responsible plan that answers Oklahomans’ call for the Legislature to find a solution to teacher pay. I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for their dedication to finding a solution and seeing a teacher pay raise come to fruition.” 

HB 1010xx provides $447 million in revenue by increasing the gross production to 5 percent on all wells, increasing the cigarette tax $1 per pack, and increasing the gas tax 3 cents and the diesel tax 6 cents.  

The Senate also advanced HB 1011xx, which provides an additional $84.3 million for teacher pay by making changes to the state income tax code.

Governor Mary Fallin issued the following statement:

“This is an historic evening for the state of Oklahoma. I applaud the bipartisanship shown in the Senate tonight and in the House of Representatives earlier this week by passing House Bill 1010XX. Those voting yes answered the call from the public by voting teachers a pay raise and putting the state on a solid foundation for the future. I will follow through on their courage and action by signing House Bill 1010XX. I appreciate our lawmakers putting people over politics by approving this package of revenue measures to fund teacher pay raises as well as provide additional money for the classroom. This budget package also helps set us on a path to long-term sustainability and stability by making more recurring revenue available and helps us to stop balancing our budget with one-time funds.”

State Superintendent of Public Education Joy Hofmeister commended the bipartisan legislation, but noted there's more work to be done. "While this legislation is far from all that needs to be done to reverse years of education funding cuts, it is a tremendous step forward. There is no one more important than the teacher in classroom instruction, and House Bill 1010-XX will be critical in retaining and recruiting teachers. This vote is a bright light for public education in Oklahoma.”

“This is progress, but it should not be a one-time deal," said Senate Democratic Leader John Sparks. "Moving forward, we need to make sure that Oklahoma invests in education. This means we need sustainable revenues that will allow us to restore funding for our classrooms which has been cut for over a decade.

“We’re giving teachers a much deserved raise now, but we need to continue to improve teacher salaries in Oklahoma in coming years. We also need to continue working to provide much needed salary increases to school support personnel and state employees.

“The job is not done. We will continue working tomorrow and for the remainder of the legislative session to properly fund education in Oklahoma.”

Berryhill High School senior serves as State Senate page

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(SUBMITTED).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Berryhill High School senior, Courtney Buttler served as a Senate page for State Sen. Allison Ikley-Freeman, D-Tulsa, during the fifth week of the legislative session from March 5-8, 2018. Courtney is the daughter of Sand Springs resident Sheree Buttler.

Chillin & Grillin' expecting biggest year yet, still needing more BBQ contestants

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The Seventh Annual Chillin and Grillin Festival is expected to be the biggest one yet, says Chamber of Commerce President Kristin Valentin, but organizers are having a hard time finding enough competitors for the BBQ contest.

Chillin & Grillin is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the nonprofit Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce, and is a major economic driver for the City of Sand Springs. The festival will be held at Case Community Park from Thursday, April 12th through Saturday the 14th. After six years of hosting an official Kansas City Barbecue Society event, the Chamber decided to forgo the prestigious, but expensive, partnership. 

There are four categories of competition with a $1,000 grand prize and $500 reserve. The contest judges brisket, pork, ribs, and chicken. There is also a People's Choice category and a Kid's competition. Only four teams have committed to the full contest, and Valentin says they may have to cancel it if they don't get ten teams by Friday.

People's Choice will proceed unhindered and already has eight entrees. Visitors can pay $10 to eat their fill on Saturday and vote for their favorite overall team. The Church That Matters Holy Smokers won the first five People's Choice Awards and were dethroned by the Sand Springs Parks Department last year. 

In addition to barbecue, Lee's Charburgers, Not Your Grandma's Cupcakes, and Kettle Treats will also be on hand, as will numerous vendors of arts and crafts, clothing, cooking and barbecue supplies, and more. Yellow House Market and Boutique, Okie Spice and Trade Co., Cutco Cutlery, and BJ's Pit Stop will be setting up shop and Janicelynn Yazzie will be selling traditional Navajo jewelry and blankets. 

The festival has expanded to three days for the first time and will have a full carnival as well. Entry is free all three days. Carnival wristbands are $20/day in advance or $25 at the gate and can be purchased at Prattville Market, Verizon Wireless, and Green Country Federal Credit Union. The wristbands will provide unlimited rides on either Thursday or Friday. Rides are $3 apiece on Saturday. 

Food trucks, carnival rides, live music, and a beer garden will be on hand all three days, and the Harper's Hut Classic Car Show will be on Saturday with five Best in Show categories and unique custom trophies made from actual car parts. 

Student jazz bands from Mannford, Berryhill, and Charles Page High School will provide the entertainment Thursday evening. Sand Springs's own Jennifer Marriott Band will perform on Friday, and Midlife Crisis will play on Saturday. 

Parking will be free all three days.

"This year we are already ahead of the game and we're very excited about it. The sponsorships of the companies in this town that are supporting us and this event are amazing," says Valentin.

"We truly feel that these events are economic development in its purest form because it brings people to Sand Springs, gets people out of their homes and doing something that isn't very expensive. We're very conscious of making it moderately priced so that people can absolutely come out and enjoy it."

To enter the barbecue contest, contact Kristen Valentin at (918) 245-3221. To enter the car show, contact William Nozak at (918) 671-6352. Car show entrees are $15 in advance or $20 day of. 

Event sponsors: Green Country Federal Credit Union, OmniTRAX, City of Sand Springs, Webco Industries, Church That Matters, Cecil & Sons Discount Tires, Keystone Chevrolet, Osage Casino Hotel, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, Sam's Club, United Rentals, The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge, KRMG, Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service, Braum's Ice Cream and Dairy Stores, PepsiCo, and Reasor's. 

City of Sand Springs to purchase additional land for Keystone Ancient Forest

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The City of Sand Springs held a regular City Council Meeting Monday night and approved the purchase of twenty acres adjacent to the Keystone Ancient Forest at a value of $100,000.

The property sits next to the entrance to the existing nature preserve and is not bound by the same rules as the preserve. Community Development Director Grant Gerondale hinted at the possibility of biking trails in the future.

The land is currently owned by the H. Sam Childers Trust. Childers was a crucial player in the development of the forest before his death in January of this year. Council also approved Childers as the recipient of the 2018 John M. Hess Municipal Award for Outstanding Citizenship. The award will be presented this May.

The acquisition will bring the forest to 1,380 acres total. The land features 300-year-old post oaks and 500-year-old cedars, and was the site of an exploratory expedition by famed Sleepy Hollow author Washington Irving in 1832.

The forest has multiple hiking trails, including a 0.6 mile ADA-compliant paved trail named in Childers's honor. Voters approved a general obligation bond issue this past November that will fund a visitors center and observation platform at the forest. The Childers Trust has pledged to donate $7,500 for naming rights to be applied to a future lobby or entrance area of the visitors center.

In other news: 

Council unanimously approved a measure of support for public school teachers. SEE RELATED: Sand Springs City Council approves resolution of support for teachers

Council awarded a bid of $88,165 to Play By Design, Inc. for seven shade structures at Case Community Park. Four will be installed near the Great Lawn and three will be placed at the Rotary Super Splash pad. 

Council approved resolutions of dilapidation and public nuisance against properties at 118 North Franklin Avenue and 808 North Franklin Avenue. 

Council approved $28,838 for the purchase of a new unmarked detective vehicle for the Police Department, as well as $10,117 for tasers and pepperball launchers, and $38,286 for audio logging equipment

Council approved an agreement with Keithline Engineering Group at a cost not to exceed $45,740 for beautification of the City Water Treatment Facility.

Council declined to vote on a request for detachment from City limits by Smithee Holdings at 7298 West Charles Page Boulevard.

Council approved a bid of $1,062,555 to Crossland Heavy Contractors, Inc. for a rehabilitation project at the Northwoods Chloramine Booster Station.

Council approved the use of public funds for Oklahoma Municipal League membership, Mayors Council of Oklahoma membership, Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce membership, Tulsa Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce membership, Indian Nationals Council on Government Coalition of Tulsa Area Government membership, and Homebuilders Association membership, as well as participation in the Oklahoma Sovereignty Symposium, and OneVoice Day at the Capitol.

Sand Springs City Council approves resolution of support for teachers

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The City of Sand Springs issued a proclamation of support for Sand Springs teachers at Monday night’s regular City Council meeting. Proclamation sponsor Brian Jackson pointed to quality education as a necessity for strong economic growth.

Sand Springs Public Schools teachers are preparing for a potential walkout on April 2nd if the State Legislature doesn’t pass significant education funding reform by that date. The Legislature failed to pass a teacher pay raise in special session this past year and the political action committee Oklahoma Education Association has issued a series of demands for the current session. OEA is requesting $10,000 in teacher pay raises over a three-year period, as well as raises for support staff and significant increases in general education funding.

The Sand Springs Board of Education recently approved a proclamation of solidarity with teachers, declaring their support for any SSPS employees who feel the need to walk out. Superintendent Sherry Durkee has stated that the district would have no choice but to shut down should a walkout occur, due to gross understaffing and an inability to provide a safe and productive environment for students.

Durkee spoke at the Council meeting prior to the vote, and addressed a statewide teacher shortage as educators have left the field or emigrated to neighboring states for significant salary increases. Despite eliminating many positions across the district, SSPS is still having difficulty drawing a qualified pool of candidates for open positions, says Durkee.

The following proclamation was unanimously approved by City Council.

“WHEREAS, the City of Sand Springs City Council recognizes the need to pay teachers a wage competitive with surrounding states and is a witness to the impact underfunding can have on economic development efforts of the City; andWHEREAS, Oklahoma Educators have supported and worked to find solutions to fund teacher pay raises and common education, only to see legislation addressing this issue fail to pass; andWHEREAS, we acknowledge measures by Oklahoma teachers to obtain necessary funding for a meaningful teacher pay raise and approval of this resolution is a show of support to our education community;THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAND SPRINGS, OKLAHOMA, AS FOLLOWS;The City Council of the City of Sand Springs supports our teachers and educators, and the local Boards of Education; and we urge the Oklahoma State Legislature to work on behalf of the education professionals in our state to take swift action to develop a viable plan to pay teachers a competitive wage and fund common education.This resolution is approved in open meeting of the City Council of the City of Sand Springs on the 26th day of March, 2017.”

Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame inductees announced for 2018

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Jerry L. Halcomb, Cathy Lynn Burdge, and Charles Marvin Hughes were recently announced as the Class of 2018 inductees into the Sand Springs Education Foundation Hall of Fame. The induction will be held at the organization's annual banquet on Thursday, April 26.

Hughes graduated Sand Springs High School in 1952 and was immediately drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals. He played for the Cardinals' organization for two years before being drafted into the U.S. Army and serving in Germany.

After his Army discharge, Hughes attained his Master Instructor's license in cosmetology and helped write the first test requirements for the Oklahoma State Cosmetology Board. He opened Adam and the First Lady salon in Sand Springs, and later founded the Scissors franchise which grew to nearly a dozen locations throughout the Tulsa Metropolitan Area.

Hughes coached youth baseball and was a weekly fan in attendance at Sandite football games until his passing in 2013 at the age of 79. 

Halcomb graduated Sand Springs High School in 1957, then graduated with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Architecture from Oklahoma State University and received a diploma from Ecole des Beaux-Arts at Fountainbleau, France.  He founded HH Architects in 1971 and specialized in church design before retiring in 2013. He was inducted into the American Institute of Architects College of Fellows in 2012, an honor available to only the top 3% of AIA members. After retiring from HH Architects, he founded Studio H Architects.

Also a musician, Halcomb previously performed with the Shadow Lake 8 Orchestra, which was inducted into the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame in 2013. His band, Texas RoundUp, has been performing for more than forty years. Halcomb is a deacon at First Baptist Dallas, which he has attended since 1965. 

Burdge graduated Charles Page High School in 1973 and has spent her life in service to Sand Springs. Burdge has been an active volunteer with numerous service organizations over the years, including the Civitan Club, Sand Springs Community Services, and the Sand Springs Youth Football Association, the latter of which she serves on as Board Secretary and Cheer Coordinator. She has helped organize the Mayor's Cup softball tournament and the Downhill Derby soapbox car race. She also works as the Attendance Clerk at CPHS. 

The Hall of Fame Banquet includes dinner and a silent auction, and is held at the Ed Dubie Field House at 500 North Adams Road. The SSEF is a 501c3 organization and all donations are tax deductible. All donations from SSEF events go to fund the "Grants to Teachers" program for Sand Springs Public Schools. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or further information, please contact Foundation Director Tirita Montross at 918.245.6779.

Word of Life church holds Serve Day, paints Limestone Elementary cafeteria

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Word of Life, a non-denominational Christian church in Sand Springs, held a "Serve Day" Sunday afternoon, and more than sixty volunteers donated their time to various organizations around town.

Following their 10:00 a.m. Sunday service, the church members headed to Limestone Technology Academy, Sand Springs Community Services, and Green Tree Assisted Living & Memory Care. 

At Limestone Elementary, the workers painted a large cafeteria in the district colors. They also cleaned up an outdoor classroom area. Another group visited with elderly residents at Green Tree Assisted Living, leading them in praise and worship.

At Sand Springs Community Services, volunteers helped to spot clean the facility to get it ready for its annual Tulsa Area United Way Panel Review. According to SSCS Director Nathan Woodmansee, the organization served over 1000 households from the Sand Springs community in 2017. The nonprofit can provide families with a full week’s worth of food up to six times a year, or more if there is a verifiable emergency. They also offer clothing, household items, a computer lab and job-search assistance, utility and rent assistance, and other client-specific assistance.

“SSCS does not receive government funding,” says Woodmansee. “It depends fully on donations and partnerships from churches like WOL, local coprorate sponsorships, individual donations, partnerships with Sand Sprigns Public Schools, local foundation grants, and its partnership with the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma.”

Word of Life, whose motto is "we exist to reach people," has a long history of serve days, most recently partnering with local schools. In August they painted the Limestone gymnasium and auditorium, and improved the grounds and landscaping. In October they painted the gym, a classroom, and a pair of bathrooms at Angus Valley Elementary. 

Founded in 1981, Word of Life has been serving Sand Springs for 37 years. Lead Pastor Chad Stewart has led the congregation since 2011.

Word of Life
1402 North 81st West Avenue
Sand Springs, Oklahoma 74063
(918) 245-0262
Service: Sunday 10:00 a.m.
Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
http://www.mywordoflife.com
Facebook: @Wordoflifess
Instagram: @Wordoflifess

Sand Springs Community Services
114 West 4th Street
(918) 245-5183
Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
http://sscsok.org
Facebook: @SanditesHere2Help

*Contact SSCS by phone or web to volunteer.

Sand Springs Board of Education approves resolution of solidarity with teacher walk-out

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The Sand Springs Public Schools Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution of solidarity with the teacher walkout movement in a special meeting Thursday night at the Charles Page High School Fine Arts Building, and authorized Superintendent Sherry Durkee to close schools for as long as necessary while the district is understaffed.

The Board is not preemptively planning to close schools on or after April 2nd, but will do so if enough teachers walk out that the safety of students is in jeopardy, or the schools are unable to continue effective conduct of operations. 

Additionally, the Board addressed the "chronic underfunding of public school education" and stated their full support of all measures taken by teachers "to demand the necessary funding for a meaningful teacher pay raise and education funding."

The Oklahoma Education Association has issued a deadline of April 1st for the Oklahoma Legislature to fund pay raises and education needs. The organization is calling for $10,000 in teacher pay raises over a three-year period, starting with $6,000 in the upcoming school year and $2,000 for each consecutive year. Additionally, they are demanding pay raises for all support personnel, as well as increased funding for materials, textbooks, and other district needs. 

SSPS currently employs nearly 200 OEA members, and Superintendent Durkee has previously stated the district will not be able to function if that many teachers walk out. 

If the demands of the OEA aren't met by April 1st, the organization is calling for all teachers to strike and visit the State Capitol in protest. 

"Our teachers are special here in Sand Springs," said Board President Beau Naugle. " We recognize that and we appreciate what you do for our kids that have been here, that are here now, and that will be here in the future of Sand Springs."

Superintendent Durkee praised the Board and the seventy-plus community members in attendance applauded the Board for their actions.

Resolution Concerning Board Policy CKCA Emergency School Closings

"Whereas Board policy CKCA, Emergency School Closings, does not expressly include circumstances when insufficient staffing may constitute a reason to close school(s) within the District, and
Whereas the Board believes insufficient staffing can prevent the safe and effective conduct of school operations,
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Board directs the Superintendent to prepare the necessary policy amendment to include the following language in Policy CKCA:
'Abnormal conditions' and 'emergency' shall include circumstances where the superintendent determines that, whether for voluntary or involuntary reasons, there will be insufficient staffing present to assure the safe and effect conduct of school operations at one or more of the district's school sites.'
The Board further directs the Superintendent to administer and apply Policy CKCA being informed by the expression of the boards Intent resolved this fifteenth day of March 2018."

Resolution Regarding Board Support of Teacher Voices

"Whereas the Sand Springs Public School Board of Education recognizes the chronic underfunding of public school education and continued cuts more than a decade; and
Whereas the Sand Springs Public Schools. Board of Education is a witness the consequences of this chronic underfunding and sees the victims in our teachers, staff, students, families community and state; and
Whereas the Sand Springs Public Schools Board of Education has supported and worked for solution after solution to fund teacher pay raises and common education, only to see the legislature fail to find common ground and pass legislation comprehensively addressing this emergency; and
Whereas teachers provide critical work in our classrooms and have waited far too long for adequate classroom resources and a desperately needed pay raise, and
Whereas, in the interest of our students and families, because Oklahoma cannot allow this crisis to continue through another legislative session, we support all measures taken by  our classroom teachers to demand the necessary funding for a meaningful teacher pay raise and education funding; and
Whereas we are confident our community, including parents, families, caregivers, faith leaders and followers, business leaders, laborers, teachers' families and their school district administrators, neighbors and friends will gracefully fill the gap and make the sacrifices it will take while our teachers advocate for what they need to educate our children and secure the future of Oklahoma in ways they see fit.
Be it resolved that the Sand Springs Public Schools Board of Education is in full support of our teachers and stands ready to take action consistent with its duty to provide educational services to its students to improve conditions for our teachers.
The Sand Springs Public Schools Board of Education urges the Oklahoma State Legislature to work urgently on behalf of the children and families in our state to take swift and meaningful action to develop a viable plan to pay teachers the professional salaries they deserve. Resolved this 15th day of March 2018."

Young, Weir, Scott, Teachnor receive awards from SSPS Board of Ed

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The Sand Springs Board of Education held a regular monthly meeting Monday evening at Charles Page High School and handed out several awards to students and faculty. 

Charles Page High School athletes Carter Young, Riley Weir, and Payton Scott were presented with Sandite Spirit Awards. Young and Weir both won wrestling State titles this season, leading their team to a third place finish.

"(Carter is) an outstanding student and an outstanding young man," said Head Wrestling Coach Kelly Smith. "I'd say the same thing about Riley. Everyone gets to see that final moment...but you wouldn't believe the time and the work and the effort that these guys put in to get where they're at. They're really special to get to this level."

Scott was recognized for winning the Gatorade Football Player of Year award for the State of Oklahoma. His award came with a $1,000 prize that he donated to Sand Springs Special Olympics.

"(Payton Scott is) one of my favorite people on the planet," said Board Member Rusty Gunn. "He's so energetic, so happy. He makes other people happy, he's a great leader on the field and off the field as well."

Pianist Amanda Teachnor was presented with a Pacesetter award for her work in accompanying the Sandite choir and band programs. "Amanda has just done a wonderful job," said Choir Director Peter Whipple. "She's been playing piano for us as long as I've been here. Every day she goes beyond. We appreciate her so much, her work, her spirit, and her willingness to do everything."

Superintendent Sherry Durkee briefly recapped talking points from a District Dialogue session held prior to the Board meeting, including student and teacher walkouts, State funding, school safety, and recent threat hoaxes.

SEE RELATED: SSPS Superintendent Durkee addresses teacher walkouts at District Dialogue

"They were polite and informed," said Durkee, regarding recent student walkouts to protest State funding. "I personally think that was a good platform to have conversation about current events." Durkee visited Central Ninth Grade Center where students walked out for 22 minutes to protest $22 million in state budget cuts. 

"The people I was around tended to know what they were talking about. Not to say every single kid was engaged, but I said 'what are you here for?' and I got an earful," said Durkee. The district did not sanction the walkout and students were counted absent from class, but the schools did contain the students and keep the event organized.

Durkee said the district has adopted an unofficial policy of taking all potential school threats seriously in the wake of the Florida massacre. Several threats have been made in recent weeks against the high school and ninth grade centers. The district has been working closely with the Sand Springs Police Department to track IP addresses and find the source of the threats. So far, each threat has been determined to be a joke. 

In other news:

  • Board approved out out-of-state travel for Clyde Boyd Middle School science teacher Janet Johnson to attend a Science Immersion Trip in Pigeon Key, Florida and an International Botball Competition in Indian Wells, California. 
  • Board approved out-of-state travel for Sherry Pearson to attend the School Nutritional Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.
  • Board approved out-of-state travel for Athletic Director Rod Sitton and the Sandite Track and Field Team to attend a track meet in Mansfield, Texas.
  • Board approved a lease agreement with the Oral Roberts University Mabee Center for graduation ceremonies on May 12, 2018. 
  • Board approved the listing of nine school buses and seven other vehicles as surplus.
  • Board approved a statement of agreement with the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa for a 21st Century Community Learning Full Steam Ahead After School Program and Spring Break Camp from March 1, 2018 through March 31, 2018. 
  • Board approved a one-year license agreement with Employee Evaluation Systems, Inc.
  • Board approved an agreement with Lifetouch Preschool Portraits for picture day in Fall 2018.
  • Board approved the employment of one STEM Technology Teacher for the 2018-2019 school year. 
  • Board approved a resolution setting a date, time, and place for the sale of $4,825,000 in General Obligation Combined Purpose Bonds. 
  • Board approved the 2018-2019 School Calendar. 

SSPS Superintendent Durkee addresses teacher walkouts at District Dialogue

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Sand Springs Superintendent Sherry Durkee. (Stock photo).

The Sand Springs Public School District held a District Dialogue Meeting Monday evening at Charles Page High School. Superintendent Sherry Durkee spoke on State funding, school safety, and the looming threat of a teacher walkout during the session.

“We can’t sanction it,” says Durkee. “That’s on the teachers.” She pointed to the current situation in West Virginia where teachers just participated in a nine-day statewide walkout and the potential side effects that such a long break could have on students.

Student activities such as spring athletics, prom, graduation, music programs, testing and more would all be severely affected by an extended school closure. Durkee is also concerned about impoverished students who would lose access to free nutritional lunches. 

According to Durkee, funding solutions proposed for a $5,000 pay raise have failed to consider the number of teaching positions that have already been eliminated in response to budget cuts, and the need to hire more teachers and reduce class sizes once funding stabilizes. Additionally, any salary increase would increase the District's required payout for teacher retirement. According to Chief Financial Officer Greg Morris, that would amount to nearly $290,000 per year. 

"If we end up in a statewide walkout, I'm praying that doesn't happen, that we find resolution before that," said Durkee. "The truth is, it hurts kids." As a teacher, Durkee participated in the 1990 walkout that resulted in the passage of education reform legislation House Bill 1017. That walkout lasted four days.

Durkee said the district would have no choice but to shut down in the even of a walkout due to the lack of available substitutes and an inability to supervise students. The district currently has seven unused snow days that could be used, but a walkout that lasted longer than a week could severely cut into instructional time. 

School shooting threats were also a topic of discussion. Sand Springs and Tulsa Public Schools were both victims of several hoaxes in the weeks following the Florida massacre. Durkee expressed interest in the possibility of implementing student ID badges.

On Monday the Oklahoma Education Association announced plans to release a detailed revenue package and statewide school closure strategy. The OEA will hold a press conference in Oklahoma City Thursday at 1:00 p.m.

Tulsa Boys' Home celebrates 100 years of miracles in 2018

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The Tulsa Boys' Home has been serving at-risk Oklahoma youth for a century, as of 2018. The 150-acre facility in southwest Sand Springs houses the most damaged wards of the State, those who have washed out of more than a dozen foster homes, as well as privately-placed drug addicted youth.

"For many of them, we give them the first family that they've ever had," says congressional candidate and Boys' Home Board Member Tim Harris. Nearly 13,000 boys have stayed at the Home since 1918, and many have overcome drugs, sexual and physical abuse, and behavioral issues to become functioning, productive members of society.

The facility typically operates at or near full-capacity, with forty wards of the State and 24 privately-placed drug addicts. The Home accepts kids from eleven years of age till eighteen, providing counseling, family, schooling, and character-building recreation.

"These are the orphans of the 21st Century," says Executive Director Greg Conway. "Not orphans because of war or disease, but because of what's been done to them."

Most had their parental rights severed by the courts due to mental, physical, or sexual abuse. Many develop behavioral issues and are kicked out of more than a dozen foster homes before making their way to the Boys' Home. "We get the kids that have been kicked out of everywhere else, that nobody else wants to deal with," says Conway.

However, the Boys' Home is far from the stereotypical image of a poverty-ridden early twentieth-century orphanage. To an outsider, the grounds would appear to belong to a resort. Perfectly manicured lawns, fountains and statues, and amenities that could compete with any country club in the state. Billiards, horseback riding, a pool, a full gymnasium with free weights, cardio machines, basketball and tennis courts. 

"We have everything these boys need out here," says Youth Minister/Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Johnson, "but not the one thing they want. Family."

The staff does its best to be that family. Substance-abuse resident Ryder said "you can talk to the staff about anything you're going through anytime." Ryder hopes to get a doctorate in physical health and help special needs kids. "I want to do something good so I can come back here and tell my story."

Each member of the staff has success stories of kids they remember who went on to succeed in life outside the program. Director Conway spoke of Grant, a former meth addict, who went from being expelled from Union High School to graduating with a Charles Page High School diploma six months ahead of the rest of his class. 

The Boys' Home has an on-campus school staffed by certified teachers provided by the Sand Springs Public School district. They participate in Sand Springs curriculum and calendar, and graduate with CPHS diplomas. The school boasts small class sizes with technology to rival any public school. They use Virtual Academy and summer school to help students recover credits and get ahead. Most students arrive semesters or even years behind their peers due to transferring in and out of dozens of schools as they migrate from one foster home to another. 

More important than academic learning is mental and spiritual recovery after enduring untold hardships. One of the tools that helps facilitate that recovery is equine therapy. Through both individual and group sessions, the youth often form emotional connections to the horses while caring for them.

Equine Counselors Johnny Clark and Shannon Ross lead the boys in games with the horses, and even offer workshops for visitors to come participate. "When you get with a horse, the horse can reflect back emotionally what's going on with you," says Clark. 

For those who don't respond to the horses or traditional means of recreation, Chief Operating Officer Mike Murphy promises to find something for everyone. From ropes courses to chess and even a running club, the Boys' Home offers countless opportunities for kids to open up and be themselves.

Ultimately, the Boys' Home has three primary goals. "We think of our work as rescuing these guys, rebuilding them while they're here, then reintegrating them into our community," says Conway. 

The rebuilding is the hardest part. According to Conway, the most prevalent diagnosis among the youth is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, a condition typically associated with veterans of war. 

"They come from the most broken of families and they are deeply wounded boys," says Conway, who holds a Master's degree in counseling. "For many of our boys, before they come here, they've never had a positive male influence in their lives."

The organization looks to provide those positive influences not only through the staff, but also with volunteer mentors and tutors. The Home provides "Hope Tours" for anyone interested in getting involved in the organization, or who simply want to learn more about it.

During the Hope Tour, guests meet many key people in the organization, including volunteers, staff, and even residents. The tour lasts about an hour, including question and answer opportunities. The tour focuses solely on educating the community and does not attempt to solicit donations. 

Upcoming Hope Tour dates are Tuesday, March 13th and Tuesday, March 27th at 5:30 p.m. To RSVP or request more information, contact Shannon Curry at 918.245.0231 ext. 5055 or scurry@tbhinc.org or contact Karen Clark at 918.245.0231 ext. 5004 or kkclark@tbhinc.org.