Celebrate the Eve Here and Then Toss That Tree

1) Throwing a bash in Ossining and Croton (or nearby) tonight that is still accepting reservations? Please share your New Year's Eve parties below (or your plans). Do you stay home or head out? Here's a few Ossining options. Or of course you can always enjoy the holiday in the safest place: your couch.

2) Ossining Village and Town offices will be open for a half-day today. Offices are closed New Year's Day but there's a special ceremony at the Caputo Community Center to swear in returning and newly elected public officials. More here.

3) Resolving to be more civic-minded in 2014? Here's a chance to give this week at Croton's Community Blood Drive on Thursday.

4) It's hard to let that Christmas tree go and lose all that holiday cheer in your house, but it's really time to say goodbye. Come January, your chances of a house fire started by that dry dead tree really escalate. 

5) Enjoy five recipes for your New Year's Eve party (and beyond) from Patch here.