5 Things To Know Today: Dec. 9

Master The Art: Today at 4:30 p.m., Ms. Melyssa (an artist from the 'old school' — JHS) hosts another session of Art Smart for kids in grades 3 through 6. Each meeting focuses on a different art master. Call the library at (401) 231-4980 for more information.

Brighten A Kid's Holiday: The Bridge at Cherry Hill assisted living residence is a local drop-off spot for Toys for Tots. New, unwrapped toys are accepted between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., weekdays.

Shop — And Support: In case you're out shopping for the readers on your list and find yourself at Barnes & Noble in Warwick, the bookstore is hosting a book fair to benefit Crossroads RI today. A portion of sales will go toward the Providence-based nonprofit agency. Be sure to mention "Crossroads" at check-out, or follow the link above for a special voucher code.

Give And Learn: The Natural History Museum and Cormack Planetarium, located inside Roger Williams Park in Providence, is offering free museum admission and discounts to visit the planetarium through Dec. 22 for visitors who bring a canned good or gently used coat.

45 Years And Counting: It was a huge hit from its very first showing — 50 percent of all TVs in America were tuned to the debut of A Charlie Brown Christmas [LGT Wikipedia article] on this date in 1965.

Is your organization or group hosting a holiday collection drive? Please email Editor Joe Hutnak at joseph.hutnak@patch.com with the details, and we'll feature your efforts on JohnstonPatch.