This week marks the latest installment of an occasional Editorial Ink Drops feature we titled “Standing O's And Oh Nos” — because some issues or individuals in our community belong, for good or for ill, right here at the top of our front page.

A deserving “Standing O” goes to every past and present member of our US Armed Forces. Newtown pride was on display November 11 as our community marked Veterans Day 2021. An annual recognition ceremony was held at 11 am sharp that morning at VFW Post 308. Around the same time, our schools paid tribute with flags, signs expressing appreciation, and exuberant cheers as veterans passed by in car parades. A reception at Newtown High School highlighted a local vet who recently helped relocate an Afghan refugee family whose father served as a translator for US Marines, and a retired career vet who is now serving as Brookfield’s first selectman. We also greatly appreciate support for that NHS event from American Legion Post 202 serving Newtown and Brookfield.

We would be remiss not to call for a “Standing O” to Newtown Police Captain Christopher Vanghele and every past and present member of Newtown Police Department. Vanghele, who was the primary organizer of a well-attended 50th Anniversary celebration and reception November 13, handled the day’s program expertly as well as over 100 supporters, family members, and retired officers gathered in front of the new police headquarters for an inspiring speaking program before guests moved inside for tours and refreshments. It may elude some residents, but law enforcement professionals who staff our local police department have been on duty and answering calls for service around the clock for each of the nearly 18,300 days that have passed since the local PD was first established on September 21, 1971.

We could not help but say “Oh No” upon learning of the official demise of FISH of Newtown, which was first established more than a half-century ago as Friends In Service Here. The grassroots service organization quietly worked to provide rides to residents who needed to get to medical appointments and other destinations. FISH of Newtown Inc President Colleen Honan recently said the agency would not be reactivating following last year’s shutdown due to COVID-19. Having lost many drivers during the shutdown, remaining active FISH volunteers will now be working with Town officials to help residents find transportation. Those formerly utilizing FISH may contact Newtown Human Services at 203-270-4330, or Newtown Senior Center staff at 203-270-4310 for assistance.

Our final “Standing O” is reserved for C.H. Booth Library Director Doug Lord, Reference Assistant & Volunteer Hub Project Coordinator Sarah Patafio, and a core group of about a dozen representatives of local nonprofits for their work to date establishing the Newtown Nonprofit Council. The council is working with The Newtown Bee to establish a soon to be unveiled community-wide calendar so everyone in town can keep track of all the activities of participating service agencies, grassroots organizations, nonprofits, and town departments. The group is also well into the launch of its “Get Connected” online platform. Visitors to Get Connected Newtown can register and learn about numerous ways to put the power of volunteerism to work right here at home. And any local nonprofit representative is welcome to attend the council’s meetings held virtually at 10 am on the third Monday of each month. Visit nnc.chboothlibrary.org to learn more.

On a final note, since we so appreciate everyone who submits to our weekly Letter Hive with Letters to the Editor, we remind contributors that the deadline has changed from 3 pm to noon Wednesdays to ensure those letters make it into print in a timely fashion as we continue refining our schedule with The Newtown Bee’s new printing partner.