This Week in West Hempstead — Rundown
Week of August 20, 2025
Food Pantry Reopens
Friends for the Poor Foundation has reopened at Power of Prayer Church (Mahopac Rd.) after resolving permit issues.
Distributions: Saturdays, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.Library Credit Card Policy
Director Regina Mascia responded about credit card payments.
• Key debate: add a small service fee (requires community buy-in) vs. library absorbing fees (budget adjustment).
• Next: Echo will share follow-up questions and potential paths forward.
Roads & Safety
Southern State Parkway – “Blood Alley”
Newsday analysis highlights 42,700 crashes, 137 deaths, 846 serious injuries (2012–2023) across 25½ miles.
Overnight Crash (Aug 20)
A fatal motorcycle crash near Exits 17/18 closed the eastbound roadway overnight. Awaiting NYSP bulletin.
Sanitation Talk
Facebook thread noted shredded paper scattering. Town guidance: tie & bundle paper; don’t leave loose.
• For shred-heavy homes: attend Town shredding events.
Housing Snapshot
Median home prices remain elevated: $770k–$795k (Jun–Jul data).
• Overall 11552 median: ~$785k
Rat Sightings
Reports continue in Woodfield and near new construction.
• Nassau DOH: education & guidance only (no extermination).
• Report environmental violations: NYS DEC ECO 1-844-DEC-ECOS (24/7).
Halls Pond Fishing Video
Clip shows fishing despite historic advisories (“do not eat” carp/goldfish due to chlordane).
Reminder: eating fish from Halls Pond is unsafe. Report violations to NYS DEC hotline.
Campaign Corner
Meet the Candidate: Jean-Baptiste Carelus
Running for Hempstead Town Council (CD-1).
St. Thomas the Apostle Church
Wed 8/20 & 8/27 • 7–8 p.m.Upcoming Echo Interview
Candidate Olena Nicks (Legislative District 5) to be interviewed by Echo. She is running against Moshe Hill.
Consumer Watch
Cherry Valley Marketplace – Tare Issue
Shoppers allege containers at bakery counter aren’t being tared.
Reminder: NYS law requires tare deduction. If overcharged, request re-weighing and report to NYS AG & Markets / local Weights & Measures.Local Flavor
Bakery Highlight: Riesterer’s
Specials (Aug 18–24): Mini pastries $1.50 each
