Good morning, Norman.

At its Tuesday meeting, the OU Board of Regents approved revisions to the student rights code by adding a state-required definition of antisemitism, renamed the renovated chemical engineering lab as the Valero Energy Unit Ops Laboratory in recognition of a $2.42 million donation, and approved signage at Stephenson Cancer Center to honor the Cherokee Nation's $8 million gift—actions that passed unanimously.

Norman Public Schools approved changes to graduation requirements and virtual learning days with the new Policy 5014, which aligns with House Bills 3278 and 2672.

The updated rules will guide future student progress—ensuring the district meets new state standards.

Oklahoma DHS said that 684,000 SNAP recipients received partial benefits for November in their EBT accounts within 24 hours as part of efforts during the recent government shutdown.

Recipients are advised to check the ConnectEBT app—households not meeting eligibility rules may not have been funded.

Oklahoma’s Department of Human Services confirmed that 684,000 SNAP recipients received partial benefits for November on November 11 and can view their EBT balances on the ConnectEBT app—stores like Walmart, ALDI, and Amazon continue to accept EBT cards for eligible purchases amid the government shutdown. This update comes as federal guidance determines benefit amounts individually.

Oklahoma City Archbishop Paul S.

Coakley was elected president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops last Tuesday in Baltimore, chosen from nine candidates and stepping into his new role immediately. He replaces outgoing Archbishop Timothy Broglio (whose term ended) and now leads an archdiocese that covers two-thirds of Oklahoma (a key part of the local church community).

OU's Board of Regents approved a design for west side stadium renovations and advanced phase two of the baseball facility project, with funding coming entirely from athletics funds and private donations—excluding state resources.

Construction will begin following the 2027 season for the stadium and after the 2026 season for the baseball facility, with enhancements such as new suites, club seating, and fan amenities expected by the 2028 season.

On Monday, Alabama football coaches answered questions about sign stealing after Lane Kiffin advised Freeze to change his signals—offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb said the team is changing everything while keeping plays legal.

OU, which ranks high in both offense and defense nationally, will face Alabama at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

OU football cornerback Eli Bowen said the Sooners must be ready on Saturday in Tuscaloosa—he noted the homecoming game was scheduled for a reason after a strong 24-3 win last season, urging his team to play smart as Alabama seeks revenge.

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.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Missouri Tigers Football

11 AM – 1 PM — Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Witness a thrilling college football matchup between the Sooners and Tigers.

Alcorn State Braves vs. Oklahoma Sooners Basketball

1-2:30 p.m. — Lloyd Noble Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling college basketball action between the Braves and Sooners.

Alara The Label Pop Up Shop

3 PM - 5 PM — NOUN Hotel, Norman — N/A — Browse the latest collection and get game-day ready in style during the OU game.

Live Music at NOUN Hotel

9 AM – 10 PM — NOUN Hotel, Norman, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel — Free entry — Enjoy live music in a vibrant atmosphere during OU home game weekends.

Wolfpack vs. Sooners Women's Basketball

1-4 p.m. — Lloyd Noble Center — Tickets required — Witness a thrilling college basketball matchup between North Carolina State and Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Sooners Women's Basketball vs. Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks

1-3 p.m. — Lloyd Noble Center — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the Sooners as they face the Hawks in an exciting women's basketball matchup.

Little Rock Trojans vs Oklahoma Sooners Women's Basketball

6:00-8:00 p.m. — Lloyd Noble Center — $2 Beer, Soda & Popcorn — Cheer on the Sooners as they take on Little Rock in this exciting women's basketball matchup.