Good morning, Norman.

Norman and OU reached key milestones as they plan a new arena and entertainment district in University North Park near Interstate 35 on Rock Creek Road—officials said the project will add a modern venue to the area and more details will come soon.

A new petition drive to legalize recreational marijuana is underway in Oklahoma as Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action began collecting signatures on August 7.

The petition requires (172,000 signatures) by Nov. 3 for State Question 837 to reach the ballot and let voters decide the issue next year.

Cleveland County Commissioners moved ahead with the Rock Creek Entertainment District project despite a pending Supreme Court challenge as special counsel said the economic development agreement still binds the project—officials will soon issue a request for proposal that will start a 60-day response period before submitting planned horizontal infrastructure to Norman by October 1.

Early voting for the Aug.

12 elections has begun in Oklahoma with polls opening at 8 a.m. on Thursday and continuing today. A ballot measure in Moore may increase the hotel tax — a key issue for voters.

A resident at Autumn House Independent Living in Midwest City died on August 7 from complications linked to Legionnaires' disease after traveling out of state.

The facility found 19 positive environmental samples and will complete water system remediation on August 13 (state officials advised keeping the water on) (with no new cases reported).

OU football cornerback Gentry Williams is back at full participation in preseason camp and is helping lead a young group of cornerbacks—he builds on his hard-won experience to guide teammates like Devon Jordan, Jacobe Johnson, Jeremiah Newcombe, and Courtland Guillory as they vie for starting roles.

Beats & Bites Festival featuring Kansas

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Riverwind Casino — Ticket prices vary — A night of classic rock and food trucks featuring legendary bands Kansas and Starship.

Glass Bead Suncatcher Workshop

2-3 p.m. — Uncanny Art House — Cost not specified — Create a vibrant glass bead suncatcher in this fun workshop with artist Lindsey Martin-Prascher.

Red Clay Roots Festival

1 PM – 7 PM — The Standard — Admission details TBA — Vibe to amazing tunes and connect with fellow music lovers at this vibrant festival.

Pepper Festival at Choctaw Creek Park

6-8 p.m. — Choctaw Creek Park — Free to attend — Enjoy live music, arts & crafts, delicious food, and a pepper eating contest.

Crimson Friday Concert

2-4:30 a.m. — Campus Corner — Free entry — Celebrate gameday with live music before the University of Oklahoma homegame.