Good morning, Bloomington.

IU alum Isaac Martinez's short film (Mi Media Naranja) was shown Wednesday at the Indiana Memorial Union during World AIDS Day 2025 to honor those lost to AIDS; the film uses dance and tender moments to celebrate life.

The annual candle lighting event at the IMU brought community members together on Thursday with performances by IU’s a cappella group and dance team and festive vendors offering hot chocolate and treats (the celebration set a warm tone ahead of Friday’s Nutcracker debut).

IU trustees met Friday and approved changes to post-tenure review policy, a 2% rate increase for Bloomington housing and dining, and a streamlined committee structure for faster oversight.

The review changes take effect in 2027 while campuses finalize standards after a 10-day public comment period (Policy Alignment Initiative).

Meteorologists say Bloomington might have a white Christmas as low temperatures and steady snowfall improve its odds above the historical 21 percent average.

A reliable forecast will emerge about one week from now so residents can plan for the holiday.

New HUD guidelines announced last month require annual merit reviews for homelessness grants and may reduce funding protection from 90% to 30% for Monroe County providers; officials say the change could force a shift away from the housing-first model that supports essential housing and outreach.

Bloomington will close the Browns Woods encampment on Monday, Dec.

8 after a 30-day notice (issued on Nov. 7), and outreach teams will support residents on Tuesday, Dec. 9 to relocate to safer housing. The city follows standard protocols for these closures.

Indiana wrestling hosted Central Michigan at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall and won 33-7 with strong efforts by redshirt junior Jacob Moran and others—improving the team’s record to 3-1 as they prepare for a road meet Sunday in Little Rock.

The Hoosiers volleyball team advanced to the regional semifinals after beating Colorado in the NCAA Tournament Friday at Wilkinson Hall (their first appearance since 2010).

Coach Aird said the team will maintain its process for its Dec. 11 match.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is a Heisman co-favorite as he faces Ohio State's Julian Sayin at Lucas Oil Stadium tonight; he threw five touchdowns in a win against Illinois and has kept his team unbeaten.

After falling to Minnesota, Indiana men’s basketball faces No. 6 Louisville today at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis — tipoff is set for 2:15 p.m. ahead of Indiana football’s Big Ten Championship game at nearby Lucas Oil Stadium.

Indiana football starters head into the Big Ten title game today with most players without recruiting stars, unlike Ohio State’s lineup that features top-ranked players such as Jeremiah Smith.

The game highlights the different recruiting paths that have shaped each team’s roster.

Nutcracker Behind-the-Scenes Tour

10:00 – 10:45 a.m. — Musical Arts Center — Limited to 30 guests per tour — Explore the set and costumes of The Nutcracker in a guided tour.

Candlelight Christmas Carols on Strings

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Woolery Mill — Ticketed event — Experience a magical evening of Christmas carols performed by a string quartet under candlelight.

Indiana Hoosiers vs. Siena Heights Saints

7 p.m. — Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall — Ticket prices vary — Catch a thrilling college basketball matchup as the Hoosiers take on the Saints.

Family New Year’s Eve Bash

4-9 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Bloomington — Ticket required — Celebrate early with games, food, and a festive family countdown to 2026!