Week in Review

Before the new week begins, let's take a look at the big stories that happened in Malverne and West Hempstead over the past seven days.

about a Malverne resident who threatened to sue Nassau County over the changes it made to traffic lights on Hempstead Avenue generated feedback from readers who agree that driving through the village has become aggravating and sometimes even dangerous. See what the Nassau County Commissioner of Public Works after reviewing the situation.

One of the biggest news stories this week was the bond vote for the Malverne school district. Hundreds of residents in school district 12 came out to vote on Nov. 16  aimed at making dramatic improvements to the aging and inadequate elementary school buildings and district sports facilities. Throughout the day, the vote was close with compelling arguments both  and  passing the bonds. In the end, a majority which will cost $14.1 million. New York State will reimburse nearly 40 percent, about $5.6 million, of the total bond.

Many parents turned out to Howard T. Herber Middle School Nov. 16 to cast their votes on the bond issue, but also to enjoy a showcase of their students' talents. that evening featured dance and musical performances from the district's schools. highlights of the concert.

Also, shining on stage this week was of West Hempstead Middle School's production of The Music Man, Jr. of the performances that had audiences captivated and "smiling throughout the show." and graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes School also dazzled in the spotlight in Sacred Heart Academy's performances of The Nutcracker.

If only the economy could perform as well as our young people. Recent unemployment figures showed there at had been little to no change in Nassau County and the Town of Hempstead. The leaders of the merchants in Malverne and West Hempstead on how the local businesses are faring.

Also, facing financial challenges is the West Hempstead School District, which invited its independent auditor to speak at the Board of Education about its budget and the economic factors it will face in the coming year.

At this meeting, the board also honored , which this year, and responded to concerns about in the district. They also invited parents to attend a special presentation by the Nassau County District Attorney's office on Nov. 18, where they learned some shocking facts about heroin and prescription .

Making healthy choices was also one of the topics that in the Malverne school district, when they made a special visit to Davison Avenue School this Thursday. The students also had some provocative questions for the hockey pros. to see what they had to say.

Professional athletes weren't the only ones to make headlines in Malverne and West Hempstead this week. The Malverne Mules fall sports teams for their achievements in a ceremony on Monday night. The village also set aside two days to showcase the work of one of its most accomplished artists at the Malverne Historical Society. Check out on award-winning painter Arthur Raymond.

This week the Malverne-West Hempstead Patch also debuted its newest column, , where we will be sharing top recipes from one experienced grandma, who specializes in quick and delicious Kosher cooking. If the family is gathering at your house for Sunday dinner tonight, you might want to dry her chicken dish. It only takes 30 minutes to make!

Don't forget to check Patch daily for 24/7 coverage of the news that makes Malverne and West Hempstead tick and if you have a story that you think we should be covering, e-mail Tara.Conry@Patch.com.