Get Ready for the Holidays

Each Monday we welcome you back to the work week with a look at what to expect in the Chathams. From content you'll find on Patch as the week goes on to community activities, here's what you need to know this week:

1) You need to know about luminaria: Where to find your luminaria kit, and everything you need to know to be part of this Christmas Eve tradition in Chatham.

2) You need to know about Newton, Conn.: We'll bring you continuing coverage of Friday's school shooting, including a statement from the shooter's father and a homily from Msgr. James Mahoney of Corpus Christi Church on the shootings.

3) You need to know about the end of the world: A little Mayan history, and what to do on Friday night ... and (maybe) on Saturday morning.

4) You need to know about surviving the holidays: This is an expensive time of year. We've got some tips on how to survive the holidays on a budget, so check back for some savvy savings advice.

5) You need to know about local accomplishments: We've got reports of Chatham residents doing great things on their college athletic fields, and we'll bring you all the news.