Good morning, Norman.

A recent Pew study shows that many Oklahomans pray daily and go to church often, but fewer now say they are Christian—70% now compared to 85% in 2007.

The report ranks Oklahoma among the top ten most religious states while noting that faith practices are slowly declining.

Turning Point USA — set to visit OU on Oct.

16 — announced its college tour follows the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10. The organization said speakers will be announced later as the tour begins its stops after Kirk’s birthday on Oct. 14.

Norman Regional became the first hospital in Oklahoma to offer a rapid blood test that diagnoses concussions in 38 minutes to help doctors treat head injuries faster—insurance now covers the test and research for pediatric use is underway.

Niche ranked Edmond as the best suburb in the metro area due to its A+ ratings in public schools, housing, and community+ the review also placed it in the top 400 suburbs nationally, listing Norman, Moore, and others as notable places to live.

OU staff confirmed in a pregame meeting on September 22nd that a trick play was cleared by officials—allowing an uncontested touchdown by Isaiah Sategna in the 24-17 win at Auburn.

The play drew national attention after the SEC argued it should have been flagged.

A report said Oklahoma’s new nine-game SEC schedule will have the Sooners play Texas, Missouri and Ole Miss every year from 2026 until 2029—keeping long-standing rivalries like the Red River Rivalry intact.

Ole Miss is set to play in Norman in October for the first time under the plan.

OU football stays undefeated at 4-0 after a 24-17 win over Auburn at home in Week 4—bowl projections now rank the Sooners between No. 9 and No. 11 for a College Football Playoff first-round matchup, and they will host Kent State on Oct.

4 after their bye week.

Route 66 Balloon Festival

7 a.m. – 10 p.m. — Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch — Check for admission fees — Experience colorful hot air balloons lighting up the Arcadia sky.

Oklahoma Sooners vs Kent State Football

3-6 p.m. — Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Oklahoma Sooners clash with Kent State in an exciting football match.

Pajama Story Time

6:30-7:00 p.m. — Center For Children and Families, Inc. — Free entry — Enjoy bedtime stories that enrich literacy and strengthen the bonds between parents and children.

Halloween Kickoff Celebration

3-8 p.m. — The Ice Creamatory — Free candy for kids in costumes — Celebrate Halloween with costume contests, food trucks, and sweet treats.

Run For Your Life 5K & One-Mile Fun Run

5-9 p.m. — Ruby Grant Park — Kids under 10 run free with paid adult — Navigate a zombie-filled course in an off-road adventure and enjoy snacks and dancing after the race.