May 6: BOCES Budget, Fashion Show, Ground Zero Reporting, Weekend Plans and More

Today Patch looks at the budgets, board members and other happenings at our local schools. We explore a local perspective on a story that grabbed the national spotlight. And we get you set to start your weekend.

Here's the top five things to know for May 6.

1. BOCES Budgets: As one local school board member stated recently, "BOCES is like the mafia...they get a piece of everything." The remark was in regards to the several expenses in the school district's own budget that were labeled "BOCES." On top of that, both the Malverne and West Hempstead school districts had to vote recently on a separate BOCES-specific budget. Find out what they did, and what districts are paying for when we look at the role and cost of Nassau BOCES later today.
2. Talent and Fashion: Malverne High School students will showcase their gifts and sense of style tonight in a Fashion and Talent Show. The event will be held at Howard T. Herber Middle School, starting at 7 p.m.
3. Reporting Ground Zero: Did you check out the photos one Malvernite captured yesterday of President Barack Obama's visit to Ground Zero. Robert Powers along with one of his colleagues share their view of the action from high above in their Manhattan office building. to see. Also, share your own thoughts on Obama's visit, bin Laden's death and the decision not to release photos of his body on the story's comment board.
4. Weekend Plans: The work week is almost over and if you haven't made plans yet, check out our "Get Out" guide for a round-up of the top events happening in and around Malverne and West Hempstead. Come back around lunchtime for the story.
5. Meet the Candidates: On May 17, residents in Malverne and West Hempstead will not only vote on the proposed school budget for their district, but they will also be asked to re-elect certain board members that are coming to the end of their current terms. Between the two districts only three people are in the running - all incumbents - but Patch still thinks its important to get to know the school board candidates even if they are without competitors. Learn about West Hempstead Board of Education President Pamela Lotito today.