Good morning, Norman.

On Monday, a House education subcommittee approved several bills to limit virtual learning days and boost tutoring programs; one measure would allow schools only two online days per year (if state conditions are met).

The panel also passed bills to add classroom days with increased state funding, support math screening and intervention, and extend the college scholarship application window (until December 31).

Gov. Stitt said his office found that during March wildfires Forestry Services deployed only half of their resources to help local firefighters and suspended several employees, including Assistant Director Craig Marquardt and Public Information Officer Keith Merckx—who are now under investigation; a full report has not yet been released.

Oklahoma voters may soon consider a constitutional amendment to legalize recreational marijuana for those over 21—proposed by Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action.

The measure would let individuals grow up to 12 plants, set purchase limits at 72 ounces for topicals and edibles and eight ounces for commercial sales, replace the medical marijuana excise tax with a 10% fee on recreational sales, and require nearly 173,000 signatures to get on the ballot.

ODOT has launched a month-long work zone safety campaign in April to remind drivers to slow down in construction zones—focusing on safety with Work Zone Wednesdays and special events like a moment of silence on April 11 and Go Orange for Work Zone Safety Day on April 15.

The campaign aims to reduce work zone fatalities and raise awareness as more than 100 work zones open over the summer.

Oklahoma health officials warned that a rising national measles outbreak — with 10 cases in Oklahoma and 642 cases nationwide, nearly 500 of which are in Texas — has led doctors to recommend that parents begin the MMR vaccine series at 12 months instead of the usual 15 months.

Zillow data shows that rental costs in the area vary, with April averages of $966 in Oklahoma City, $880 in Norman, and $850 in Moore (the lowest among nearby suburbs).

Home prices also range widely, starting at $198,272 in Oklahoma City and rising to $911,885 in Nichols Hills (data that buyers should compare closely).

The Oklahoman launched its spring sport girls athletes of the week poll for March 31—April 6 presented by Landmark Fine Homes so local fans could vote for high school nominees until noon on Sunday; Edmond North junior soccer player Rylee McLanahan was named the winner last week.

On Sunday, the Lakers routed the Thunder 126—99, marking the second straight loss for OKC and leaving the team with four regular-season games as it still holds a two-game cushion over Cleveland in the race for homecourt advantage.

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.

FREE Norman Music Festival

April 24-26 — First Fidelity Bank - Downtown Norman — Free entry — Experience a vibrant celebration of independent music and arts in downtown Norman.

A Taste of Ireland

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Reynolds Performing Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience the Irish music and dance sensation that entertains thousands with humor and history.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Texas Longhorns

11 AM – 1 PM — Love's Field — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrilling rivalry between the Sooners and Longhorns live at Love's Field.

Comedy Night with Dan Alten

7 p.m. — Legally Brewed — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of hilarious stand-up comedy from a touring comic known for his unique charm.

Patti LaBelle Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Riverwind Casino — Tickets starting at $66 — Experience the legendary vocals of Patti LaBelle live in Norman.

Free Electronic Recycling Event

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Reaves Park — Free entry — Safely dispose of your e-waste with community-friendly recycling standards.