In brief: Letters from Santa, virtual events and more around Sewickley

Letters from Santa

Families can have a personalized letter sent to kids from Santa at a cost of $5 with proceeds benefiting the Operation Santa Claus charity.

The letters feature a child’s name, references to items they put on their Christmas wish list and a special “PS” from Santa.

The letter will arrive on custom Santa-themed stationary and envelope along with an official “Nice” certificate and a North Pole activity sheet.

Letters can be ordered online. They will be mailed on or before Dec. 14.

Proceeds Benefit Operation Santa Claus, a cooperative effort by Trib Total Media, Shop N Save and the Salvation Army to provide local families in need with all the ingredients for a nutritious and delicious holiday meal. Children in those families receive new or gently-used books.

Operation Santa Claus also is accepting donations to help families during the holidays.

Donations can be made online or by mail to Operation Santa Claus, c/o Trib Total Media; 622 Cabin Hill Drive, Greensburg, PA 15601.

Beth Samuel Jewish Center

BSJC will host all programs through Zoom until further notice. Upcoming programs include:

• Virtual Hanukkah craft party led by Artsy Doodle, 5:30 p.m. Dec. 6.

• Hanukkah Seder, 7 p.m. Dec. 13.

• Torah Yoga and Meditation with Jenn, 8:45 a.m. Dec. 19.

Email BethSamuel Office@comcast.net for more information or Zoom login links.

Holiday Mart online

Sweetwater’s Center for the Arts annual Holiday Mart will be online in 2020. Log on and shop for unique, handcrafted gifts made by local artists through Dec. 19. Holiday Mart has something for everyone on your list, in every price range — artisan-made jewelry, knitwear, hats and scarfs, unique accessories, hand-thrown mugs and bowls, wall art, candles, cute aprons, great hostess gifts, teachers gifts, ornaments, cards, decorations and so much more.

Support your local artists and your favorite local art center by visiting www.SweetwaterArtSale.org.