Good morning, Norman.

Bradford pear trees, introduced in the 1960s, now grow quickly and crowd out native species by spreading their inedible fruit with the help of birds.

OSU Extension advises residents to remove these trees completely by uprooting or using herbicides — and to consider planting native alternatives like eastern redbud or American plum.

Today, about 12 million gallons of water flow through Norman's pipes — most of it processed at the Vernon Campbell Water Treatment Plant near Hall Park, city officials said.

The treated water won first place in a state contest last May and is now in the running for a national taste-test award.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture opened enrollment for the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program last week to help Oklahoma farmers manage rising input costs and falling crop prices for 2024 — the program offers up to $10 billion in funding with applications closing on Aug.

15, and experts say Oklahoma producers could receive nearly $300 million if they grow crops like wheat, corn, and soybeans.

Oklahoma banned the Chinese AI app DeepSeek from state-owned devices today after Gov. Kevin Stitt said the app’s data collection and weak encryption risk exposing sensitive state information—officials designed the move to block foreign access.

Norman Regional Health System board meets today at 5:30 p.m. at 3300 HealthPlex Parkway in Norman to review its financial situation and consider a possible sale or partnership to secure needed capital — following recent negative bond ratings and financial challenges.

St. Anthony and other local systems have already responded to the hospital's request for proposals, and a representative from St. Anthony will attend the meeting to discuss potential strategic alignment.

The OU women’s basketball team is in the NCAA Tournament and will play Iowa today at Lloyd Noble Center in Norman at 3 p.m. The Sooners, coming off an 81-58 win last Saturday, are predicted to win 76-73 — a tight score that will send them to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2013.

The OU Women beat the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles on March 23rd to advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

Rich Talarico Improvisation Workshop

7-10 p.m. | The Depot | $ | Enhance your improvisation skills by learning how to initiate organic scenes with Rich Talarico.

Tennessee Lady Vols at Oklahoma Sooners Softball

6:30 – 10:59 PM | Love’s Field | Ticket prices vary | Watch a thrilling collegiate softball matchup featuring the Tennessee Lady Vols against the Oklahoma Sooners.

Norman Wine & Craft Festival

The Norman Wine & Craft Festival offers attendees a variety of wines, unique crafts, and a lively atmosphere at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Tennessee Lady Vols

1-5 p.m. — Love’s Field — Ticket information not provided — Cheer on the Oklahoma Sooners as they face the Tennessee Lady Vols in an exciting matchup.

Medieval Fair of Norman 2025

7 p.m. — Reaves Park — Free admission — Experience the vibrant Middle Ages with music, jousting, and artisan crafts.

Vintage Market Days of Oklahoma City

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Cleveland County Fairgrounds RV Park — Admission fees vary — Explore upscale vintage treasures from local vendors in a charming market setting.

OU BFA Student Showcase

6-9 p.m. — Uncanny Art House — Free entry — Celebrate the talent of emerging artists from OU's School of Visual Arts in a diverse BFA Showcase.

Spring Egg Hunt

5-7 p.m. — Andrews Park — Family-friendly fun — Enjoy an egg hunt, Spring bunny photos, and games under the sun.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs

1-5 p.m. — Love’s Field — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling college football matchup supporting your favorite team and a good cause.

Norman Music Festival 2025

Various times — Rotary Park, Norman, OK — Free entry — Experience a vibrant celebration of music, art, and community in the heart of Oklahoma.