Ben’s Bells, 32 Stony Hill in Bethel, whose original site was in Newtown, reminds all that the nonprofit continues to have merchandise available for purchase — and that they make great holiday gifts. Sales of merchandise support the studio, and like so many businesses, Ben’s Bells has been suffering from the impact of COVID-19. Stop by (safely masked, of course) Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, from noon to 8 pm, or on Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. Visit bensbells.org to find out other ways you can support this organization, known for the ceramic ornaments and wind chimes randomly bestowed on communities and individuals in need.

The final Senior Center Craft Boutique takes place this Saturday, December 12, from 8 am to 2 pm, at the 8 Simpson Street Newtown Senior Center. I have a feeling you will find the purr-fect gift for someone special, with all of the wonderful handmade items the members have to offer. (Hint: A knit afghan is just what your favorite kitty would love; or any other handknit creation that offers a soft spot to curl up.... just saying, it’s worth checking out.)

I’ve heard there are three W’s we should adhere to in order to keep the novel coronavirus at bay, and get our numbers back to normal: Wash your hands; Wear a mask; Watch your distance. They are such simple suggestions; and since I spend up to five hours each day grooming myself, these do not seem like rules that are too hard for any human to follow. Stay safe, stay well!

I pawed around the cushions at home and found that there was a remarkable amount of change tucked behind them. So I’ve bundled it up and will be bringing it to the Lions Treasure Hunt this Saturday, to support their efforts to bring play equipment to our parks that all children, regardless of needs, can enjoy. The Lions will be collecting your hidden treasures in the parking lot of Newtown Congregational Church between 10 am and 2 pm.

Mike Sorrentino, owner of Newtown Hardware, has ordered a new winter flag for our town flagpole. Keeper of the Flagpole, Chris Gardner, says that Mike has frequently purchased new, costly flags for our Main Street flagpole. I think this is quite worthy of a Good Egg Award! Thank you, Mike!

I was really disappointed to hear that the recent Cultural Arts Commission meeting was Zoom bombed. It seemed to be not a personal attack, but rather one of random selection, but still, members were subjected to some nasty talk and visuals before they were able to sign off and start anew. As always, I wonder what sick pleasure these Zoom bombers get from spreading angst and hate? If you host a Zoom meeting with a public link, please be aware that no matter how innocuous your group may be, there could be some vile group out there ready to spoil your meeting.

Would you like to be a Newtown Bee Snapshot? The Snapshot, which appears on page A-2 of every issue and online at newtownbee.com, is a personal profile of Newtown/Sandy Hook residents. You know the answers to our questions, because it’s all about you! Or maybe you know someone who would be a great Snapshot profile — contact alissa@thebee.com and she’ll be in touch.

Among the 2021 AARP Purpose Prize winners is Mark Barden of Sandy Hook Promise. The AARP Purpose Prize is a national award “that celebrates people 50-plus who are using their knowledge and life experience to solve tough social problems.” The father of Daniel, who was killed 12/14 at Sandy Hook Elementary shooting, Mark co-founded Sandy Hook Promise, “an organization that aims to prevent shootings, violence and other harmful acts to help keep schools and communities safe.” Mark and other recipients were recognized December 3 during a live streaming event.

Need some positivity in your life? This message was spotted on a bulletin board at Newtown Middle School recently. I think everyone needs to read it: “In case no one told you today… Hello. Good morning. You’re doing great. We believe in you.” Well, this certainly gets me purring.

Who knew getting a Christmas tree could be so fraught with hazard? AAA Northeast reminds us that a tree improperly secured to a vehicle’s rooftop is a recipe for disaster. “The only thing flying this holiday season should be reindeer, not Christmas trees,” said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman. AAA Northeast suggests:

1. Ideally, use the bed of a pickup truck, an SUV, or a vehicle roof rack.

2. Use quality tie-downs such as strong rope, twine, or nylon ratchet straps. Wrap the tree in netting or use a blanket or a tarp to make sure no loose limbs impede your vision.

3. Position the tree’s trunk toward the front of the vehicle on the roof rack or the pickup bed. If the tree will have to go inside your car — again, trunk first. Use rope to secure the hatch or trunk.

4. Secure the tree at its bottom, center, and top. Once tied down, give the tree several strong tugs from various directions to make sure it’s secure.

5. Reduce your speed and be smooth with your steering, accelerating, and braking.

Enjoy your tree!

Elves are chatting with local kids! If your child sets up a chat, please consider submitting a photo of the children participating in an Elf Chat, with the child’s name and brief details of how the chat went, to education reporter Eliza Hallabeck, by e-mail to eliza@thebee.com, by December 15 at 8 am, for possible inclusion in the following week’s print edition.

Last Friday’s downpour meant a wise decision from Parks & Rec, which decided to postpone the annual display of luminaria that line Main Street and its side streets — a bright path that leads to the Ram Pasture Christmas trees. While the trees have been aglow since last Friday, I’ll be among those relishing the beauty of our town this Friday evening when the luminaria add to the holiday spirit.

Happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate the eight night and day Festival of Lights, which begins at sundown on December 10. Celebrate safely this holiday season, so that all can be together next year!

We recognize that the holidays are not joyous for all. Losses over the years and during this pandemic have cast a pall over the season for many. We join our hearts in remembering those who are not with us any longer, and especially reflect on the great losses suffered on December 14, 2012, when 26 people were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School. If you are having trouble, particularly on December 14, the Resiliency Center of Newtown, 153 South Main Street, offers a place of refuge from 9 am to 4 pm, this coming Monday. Newtown Interfaith Council will host a Facebook Live and YouTube Service of Remembrance, as well, at 7 pm, the evening of December 14.

I will be on the lookout for good news to share, so be sure next week to... Read me again.