5 Things You Should Know Today - Dec. 20, 2011

The festival of lights begins tonight, providing some warmth to a chilly, rainy Michigan day: 

1. The weather

The National Weather Service predicts a 30 percent chance of rain and snow today, with temperatures in the upper 30s. Rain is more likely tonight, with a low of around 35. 

2. Hanukkah begins

Tonight at sundown, local Jewish families will light the first candle on the hanukkiah or menorah to mark this 8-day holiday. Read about the history and traditions , and about area Hanukkah celebrations here. 

3. Farmington Schools survey

Tomorrow is the last day to take Farmington Public Schools' customer satisfaction survey, designed to give parents and community members a chance to weigh in on how the District is doing. Results will be presented to the Board of Education at one of their meetings held in January 2012 and then shared throughout the district. Go to cobaltcommunityresearch.org/FPS, and under survey ID, type in “FPS” in all caps.

4. Santa Sightings

Keep an eye out for on a motorcycle, his handlebars lined with stuffed animals. The Jolly Old Elf will also at in Farmington Hills tomorrow at 10 a.m. (adult admission is free with child's $6 admission). And rumor has it one of Santa's reindeer will be visiting today. 

5. Look ahead:

says "thank you" to customers tonight with a Christmas Party Customer Appreciation. Stop by the Farmington store at 6 p.m. for food and drink, raffles, door prizes, Christmas carols, and even a visit from the man in the red suit.