Five Things You Need to Know in Scarsdale: Half-Days, Bees and Birds

1. If you have ortographobia -- a phobia of misspelled words -- then you might not want to hit up Scarsdale's Adult and Teen Spelling Bee tonight. But if you can spell it, make sure to swing by and compete against (or simply observe) some of Westchester's most talented logophiles as they and compete for the grand prize. The Bee will take place from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Admission fee is $5, but donations are also accepted. Businesses and individuals interested in contributing $250 or more should contact Sara Werder at 914-472-6264.

2. If today couldn't be any better because it's a Friday, it's improved even more for Scarsdale's teachers and students -- due to staff conferences, today's a half-day of school. Make sure you have a carpool or babysitter lined up if you're still stuck in the office come noon, and check out the public school system's online schedule to find out more on future holidays, half-days and school-sponsored activities. 

3. Go birdwatching on the natural lands, make a pinecone bird feeder and receive a crash course in avian biology this afternoon at the Nature Workshop. The program runs from 12:30-2:30 p.m., and fees are $30 per child. For more information, call 914-722-1289 or visit their website. 

4. will hold a "Perspectives Panel and Luncheon" examining different views on church history today at 12 p.m. Find out more by calling 914-723-3311 or visiting the church's website. 

5. The League of Women Voters of Scarsdale is seeking high school applicants to participate in the 12th annual Students Inside Albany Conference, which will take place from March 25-28. One chosen student will have all expenses paid and travel to Albany to learn about New York State government and policymaking with youths across the state. Other activities will include touring the Capitol and spending an afternoon shadowing legislators. For an application or more information, contact Pamela Fuehrer, Scarsdale League of Women Voters, at 914-472-9440 or pfuehrer@optonline.net. Application forms are available at the Scarsdale League of Women Voters’ website and due by January 11.