Locals in Nutcracker, Santa in Banksville Today

1. Open House at Temple Beth El

Checking out religious preschools for next year? There will be an open house for the pre school connected to Temple Beth El of Northern Westchester. It is tonight at 7 p.m. for details.

2. Utilities reps, officials to discuss storm response

Tonight's is hosted in Yorktown, but the discussion with utility company officials will include their regional response to the October snowstorm. The discussion is hosted by Sen. Greg Ball and will take place at Yorktown Town Hall today from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

3. Santa comes to Banksville

The businesses on Bedford's southeast border, Banksville, will offer wine, gourmet food, and a glimpse at sketches of the Banksville plaza renovations.  There will be a special appearance by Santa Claus atop . Starts at 2 p.m., click here for

4. Holiday contest starts today!

The Patch holiday lights contest starts today at 9 a.m. Check back for more details on how to win!

5. Local students in Nutcracker Dec. 17-18

The Westchester Ballet Company—one of America's oldest community ballet troupes—will perform The Nutcracker at the Westchester County Center December 17 at 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm; December 18 at 2 pm. For tickets call 914-995-4050 or visit www.countycenter.biz. You can also purchase tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.The production features professional guest soloists in the leading roles and professionally trained student dancers from communities throughout Westchester and neighboring areas. This year, the cast includes local students Hannah Worby,Pound Ridge (Snow Corps, Flower Soloist, Russian Corps) Olivia Chandler, Cross River (Snow Corps, Gigue, Flower Corps, Chinese Solo) and Charlotte Chandler, Cross River  (Snow Corps, Flower Corps, Flute Corps, Gigue Understudy.