Good morning, Norman.

Food banks, nonprofits and faith groups are preparing for a potential federal shutdown that may cut off food stamps for over 680,000 people beginning Saturday as federal assistance remains uncertain.

The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma will double its efforts at a cost of $5.5 million per month while Governor Kevin Stitt said the state will not use its $1 billion rainy day fund—federal rules restrict its use.

Rep. Ellyn Hefner — a longtime disability advocate — expressed concern that recent federal layoffs in special education offices risk weakening protections for more than 120,000 Oklahoma students who rely on IDEA and Section 504 as a judge temporarily paused the cuts.

She warned that if the staffing uncertainty continues, Oklahoma schools may struggle to guide students in need of these vital services.

Lynda Loucks from UCO said Oklahoma bats have not dropped much despite white‐nose syndrome, a deadly fungus that has killed many bats elsewhere—researchers say.

The study shows that natural resistance or our changing weather may be helping the bats survive—further research will guide local conservation efforts.

Vit Krejci started his NBA career with OKC Thunder even though he had a torn ACL — he later joined the Atlanta Hawks in 2022 and earned a four-year, $10.2M contract after a strong 2023–24 season that showed his hard work and growth.

Thunder GM Sam Presti said Nikola Topic began chemotherapy for testicular cancer and his doctors remain extremely positive about his long-term outlook—there is no timetable for his return.

OU football linebacker Kobie McKinzie and defensive back Gentry Williams will likely play Saturday against Tennessee as the SEC report listed them as probable—McKinzie is recovering from an injury from last Saturday while Williams exited a recent game and several other players remain questionable.

The OKC Thunder announced that guard Nikola Topic (20) began chemotherapy after being diagnosed with testicular cancer; his doctors are positive about his long-term outlook and he has no set timetable for returning to the court (he is receiving full support from his team).

Today the Sooners are preparing for Saturday night in Knoxville when they will face Tennessee’s high-scoring offense led by quarterback Joey Aguilar and play-caller Josh Heupel.

Coach Brent Venables said his team will focus on keeping turnovers low—aiming to disrupt Tennessee’s explosive plays and secure a strong SEC road win.

The Oklahoma City Thunder improved to 6-0 after beating the Wizards 127-108 at Paycom Center on October 30—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points and Isaiah Joe had a 20-point season debut.

Earlier, the general manager announced rookie guard Nikola Topić was diagnosed with testicular cancer and is now undergoing chemotherapy.

National Weather Festival

10 AM – 2 PM — National Weather Center — Free entry — Experience a fun-filled day with weather-related exhibits, activities, and demonstrations for the whole family.

Belmont Bruins at Oklahoma Sooners Women's Basketball

4:30-6:00 p.m. — Lloyd Noble Center — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the Oklahoma Sooners women's basketball team as they face off against the Belmont Bruins.

University Sing 2025 - Thursday

7-8 p.m. — Reynolds Performing Arts Center — $22.49 — Enjoy a captivating night of performances at this all-ages event.

OKiCON 2025

2:00 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Norman Hotel & Conference Center — $65.92 — Experience three days of Japanese art, music, and culture at this vibrant anime convention.

Ram Run at Ruby Grant Park

9-11 a.m. — Ruby Grant Park Playground — Cost varies — Enjoy a 5K and fun run benefitting Victory Family School with shirts, medals, and a finish line celebration.

Peggy Johnson - Depot Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Depot — Ticketed entry — Enjoy a night of acoustic music in an intimate setting featuring renowned artists.

Oklahoma Sooners Women's Basketball vs. Kansas City Roos

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Lloyd Noble Center — $2 Beer, Soda & Popcorn — Cheer on the Sooners as they take on Kansas City in a fun Hoops for Troops event.

Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with family-friendly activities, food, and diverse performances leading up to the tree lighting.

Oklahoma Sooners Women's Basketball vs East Texas A&M

6-7:30 p.m. — Lloyd Noble Center — $2 Beer, Soda & Popcorn — Celebrate Native American Heritage Night with an exciting basketball showdown.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Oral Roberts Golden Eagles

7-9 p.m. — Lloyd Noble Center — $2 Takeover — Enjoy a night of college basketball with affordable snacks and drinks.