Good morning, Norman.

The Heartland Flyer will run through the year on emergency funds as future funding remains uncertain from both Oklahoma and Texas.

Local officials say the train’s service hinges on upcoming budget decisions.

Tribal nations and local government officials in Oklahoma are weighing data center developments as the Seminole Nation banned AI facilities on its reservation—following an emergency town hall—and cities like Norman enacted moratoriums, while Google’s Project Spring in Sand Springs promises 1,000 jobs and raises unresolved water rights concerns.

Medica announced it will stop offering ACA Marketplace plans in Oklahoma next year, affecting about 8,400 members + current plans will run until the end of this year.

The nonprofit is adjusting its offerings amid a national trend of insurer exits driven by federal policy changes.

The OKC Thunder signed four undrafted free agents on June 24 to bolster their summer roster for upcoming league play.

Some signees, including players with Oklahoma ties, will compete in events (California Classic from July 3, Salt Lake City on July 4-7, and Las Vegas starting July 9).

Former OU football star Steve Zabel died at 78.

He was known as Oklahoma’s last two-way player, earned All-America honors in 1969, played 10 years in the NFL, coached locally and co-founded a nonprofit mentoring youth.

OU head baseball coach Skip Johnson was named National Coach of the Year on Wednesday after leading the Sooners to a national title with a 13-2 win over North Carolina Monday night.

He also earned the ABCA Central Region Coach of the Year honor + recorded his 300th win in his ninth season.

OU announced its 2027 basketball schedule: it hosts Georgia, Kentucky, LSU, Mississippi State, Missouri, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Vanderbilt and visits Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Ole Miss, Missouri, Texas and Texas A&M.

Conference play begins Saturday, Jan. 2; the SEC Tournament is March 10–14 (in Nashville).

NFourth Fest 250 Celebration

4-10 p.m. — Reaves Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with food trucks, yard games, contests, and live music by prominent artists.

Nike Basketball Skills Camp 2026

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Young Family Athletic Center — $399 — Enhance your basketball skills with expert coaching in a fun and dynamic environment.

SINGO Night Fundraiser for Boys & Girls Club

6-9 p.m. — The Standard — Free entry • $5 SINGO cards — Enjoy Disney and Classic SINGO while supporting local youth with food, drinks, and prizes.