Community Corner
Somers Student Intel Semifinalist; Volunteer Appreciation; Gun Violence
Here are five things you need to know today, Jan. 17.

1. Somers High School Student Intel Semifinalist
Congratulations to Simon CZheng, 16, who is among 300 semifinalists of the Intel Science Talent Search. The Somers High School student was chosen based on his research paper submissions and is in the running to win the top award of $100,000.
The finalists will be announced on Jan. 23 and will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. from March 7 to 13.
Find out what's happening in Yorktown-Somersfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Also in the running are two Yorktown High School students.
2. SPCA's Winter Warning
Find out what's happening in Yorktown-Somersfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
According to the SPCA of Westchester, its Humane Law Enforcement has seen an increase in calls in the last few weeks regarding pets suffering outside inthe cold.
Director Ernest Lungaro says “under New York State Law, a dog’s shelter outside must have a waterproof roof and should have something covering the front opening such as a rug or burlap tarp so that wind can not penetrate the inside. All dog houses must be 6 inches or more off the ground to prevent exposure to the frozen ground and fresh water must always be available so that it doesn’t freeze.
3. Obama Calls for Universal Background Checks for Gun Purchases
President Barack Obama was at the podium at the White House on Wednesday announcing his proposals to curb gun violence. He called for a $500 million program to help battle the problem. Read more on the issue here.
4. Kindergarten Registration Packet
From Somers Central School District: Do you have a child who will attend kindergarten in Fall 2013? If you have not confirmed your intention to send your child to Primrose Elementary School, please call Mrs. Ann George at 914-248-8888 so that the school can send you the registration packet in the coming weeks.
5. Volunteer Appreciation
Thyme, located on 3605 Crompond Rd. in Yorktown Heights, is offering volunteers 20 percent off of their food and soft drink dinner checks if they bring proof that they volunteer—anywhere. Don't have proof? The Volunteer Center of the United Way distributes Free ThankYouForCaring cards to organizations to distribute to their volunteers. No personal information is required. Call (914)424-8888 or go to ThankYouForCaring.com for more information.
Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter | Sign up for our newsletter
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.