Good morning, Bloomington.

Churches, businesses, and social service agencies are offering nine ways to donate toys and toiletries to neighbors in need during the holiday season.

Donors are encouraged to review local guidelines to support those in the community.

Destiny Ramsey, a U-High grad and current junior varsity coach, launched Royalty Hoops Etc. in 2021 to provide local basketball training.

The program now runs 16 travel teams and will soon open a halfcourt facility, serving kids with skills training & community outreach in Bloomington.

St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington is holding two services on Friday, Dec.

12 for its Virgen of Guadalupe celebration, featuring a Chichimeca dance at 5 a.m., mariachi music with a traditional breakfast, and an afternoon play followed by dinner * inviting parishioners to offer prayers from anywhere.

The Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts will welcome country stars Trisha Yearwood on March 19 and Jake Owen on March 21 to energize local audiences.

Tickets go on sale Friday, Dec. 12 at artsblooming.org.

Abe the Bison visited Prairieland Elementary School to promote a reading challenge for students this semester + those who read eight books received a Jimmy John’s sandwich.

Illinois State University plans to revive a stalled dorm project and add a solar array at its College of Engineering campus on GE Road — proposals set for review by the Board of Trustees Friday, with a plan for 900 beds and reduced energy costs.

Colleen Kannaday, president of Carle BroMenn and Carle Eureka, is retiring after a 35-year career; her final day is Friday, Feb.

13 (a symbolic Friday the 13th) and she will spend time volunteering while new leaders advance care with improved technology. She noted challenges in Medicaid and mental health services.

Bloomington-Normal fire officials advise residents to install carbon monoxide detectors this winter to prevent poisoning risks + they recommend checking older units for proper function.

Jane Lynch - A Swingin' Little Christmas

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $42.00+ — Classic holiday tunes and hilarious banter come together for a delightful night of music and comedy.

Home for the Holidays Bake Sale

9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — Ace Hardware of Normal — Support a great cause — Enjoy delicious baked goods and help benefit HSCI this holiday season.

Taylor Swift Night

4 PM — Grossinger Motors Arena — Free meal for kids 12 and under — An enchanting evening dedicated to Swifties with fun for the whole family.

True Crime Book Club

7-8 p.m. — Bloomington Public Library — Free entry — Dive into thrilling true crime tales with fellow enthusiasts and engage in stimulating discussions.

Bloomington Bison vs. Fort Wayne Komets

7-8:30 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Cost info not specified — Catch the thrilling hockey match as the Bloomington Bison face off against the Fort Wayne Komets.

Kalamazoo Wings at Bloomington Bison

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — $3 drinks, $0 popcorn, $9 pizza — Wear your ugliest holiday sweater and help set a world record while enjoying 309 Night festivities.