This week’s episode is packed with local news, community conversations, and summer happenings!

We’re talking about summer’s arrival with heat, humidity, and storm chances, the reopening of Echo Park Pool for Father’s Day weekend, and another major achievement for the West Hempstead Senior Band.

We’ll talk about the local water department celebrating its 100th anniversary while asking residents to conserve water, the resignation of the Cornwell Avenue School principal and the community reaction, and some great news as the West Hempstead Senior Band earned an award at a festival in Hershey, PA.

All this and more on #ThisWeekInWestHempstead

Visit us at: www.westhempsteadecho.com

 

Flags are up along Hempstead Avenue as we get closer to Memorial Day and our annual parade on Monday, May 25th at 10am.

Also this week:

School budget vote and board election Tuesday, May 19th

Possible LIRR strike concerns continue

Community events including Art With Heart, Field Day, and Junk-in-the-Trunk

Library discount tickets now available

And yes… the baby quail is doing great and another egg may hatch soon

Plus, a nearby home burglary story serves as a reminder to check cameras and security systems before heading away on vacation.

 

 

We discuss transportation costs, enrollment trends, and the continuing uncertainty surrounding state aid from Albany, as the state budget still has not been finalized by the legislature.

School Board President Karen Brohm and Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations Brian Phillips join us to break down this year’s outlook, the challenges facing the district, and what residents should know before heading to the polls.

 

The West Hempstead School Board and Library presented their proposed 2026-27 budgets ahead of the May 19 vote. Rising transportation, healthcare, and operational costs continue to impact both budgets, while officials say they are maintaining investments in student programs and community services.

According to the Herald, George Damanis is running for Trustee David Lazar’s seat after Lazar announced he would not seek reelection.

A possible LIRR strike could begin as early as May 16 if contract negotiations fail, potentially impacting thousands of Long Island commuters and West Hempstead residents.

Nassau County’s confusing e-bike laws continue to spark debate, with residents divided over safety concerns, enforcement, and whether stricter regulations are needed.

Families packed Hempstead Lake State Park this week for a successful Lag B’Omer celebration featuring rides, entertainment, and community spirit. Special thanks to Chabad of West Hempstead, all the volunteers and sponsors, and David Yizhaky and the I and D Glatt team for the great BBQ.

Don’t forget the Island Harvest food drive this Saturday — leave non-perishable donations by your mailbox for pickup.

Missing Teen Alert

Police are searching for 15-year-old Amerie Guerrier, last seen Tuesday night in West Hempstead. Anyone with information is urged to contact Nassau County Missing Persons at 516-573-7347 or 911.

Southern State Safety

With crashes on the rise, the New York State Police have launched Operation Southern Shield, increasing patrols and cracking down on reckless driving. Some drivers (and podcasters) are already noticing a difference.

Halls Pond Concerns

Ongoing pollution issues are drawing attention from social media and local politicians. Real progress will likely require coordination across multiple levels of government.

Redistricting & Supreme Court

Today’s Supreme Court of the United States decision could have long-term implications for Nassau’s majority-minority districts—but no immediate changes are expected.

Education Spotlight

West Hempstead teacher Erin Geiger is introducing a new model replacing finals with in-depth student projects—an innovative shift in how students learn and present knowledge.

Scholarships Awarded

Congrats to six local students recognized by the West Hempstead Community Scholarship Fund for their achievements!

Community Event

Join the Lag B’Omer BBQ & Family Festival Tuesday, May 4 at Hempstead Lake State Park featuring food by I and D Glatt, rides, and entertainment.

At the Library

Stop by to see the quail egg incubator and learn about their importance to Long Island—great for kids!

Community Conversation

PVC fences are popping up everywhere—do they improve neighborhoods or change the character? What are the rules?

 

 

Crime Update – Arrests were made following a robbery at La Candela Restaurant.

Correction from last week’s podcast – SanDee Bowling is OPEN and thriving.

Business Talk – Why is Malverne attracting more businesses than West Hempstead? What can be done to change that?

Yom HaShoah – Meaningful commemorations took place Sunday, including at Young Israel of West Hempstead.

Halls Pond – Spring is in full bloom at Halls Pond Park—worth a visit.

Pool Watch – Will the outdoor pool be ready in time for the season?

Shoe Repair – A resident had a great experience at Joe’s Shoemaker. Do people still repair shoes? Where else can you go?

Library Event – Big turnout at West Hempstead Public Library this past Sunday with live music and a packed room.

Community Art – A new mural is going up at Dario’s Pizza—great to see local beautification efforts.

Sweet Deal – Riesterer’s Bakery is celebrating Administrative Professionals Week with 6 donuts or buns for $9.25 all week.

#thisweekinwesthempstead #westhempsteadny #malverneny

 

School budget is out—what’s driving the increases? Plus ongoing controversy involving a West Hempstead special ed teacher and continued discussions around Diamond Charter School.

Liberty Water issues continue, with reports of brown water before the holidays—what can be done?

A local restaurant owner is facing new charges tied to alleged wage violations and fraud.

On a lighter note, West Hempstead Echo just passed 1,000 followers—thank you! And a Riesterer’s post just hit 44,000 views… local brand power is real.

Yom HaShoah was commemorated this week, with two local programs this Sunday night at Shaaray Shalom (7:00 PM) and YIWH (8:15 PM).

Lots of talk about new businesses—but what about long-vacant spots like the Lantern Diner, Burger King, and Key Food?

Looking for something to do? Bowling may be harder to find, but you can still shoot pool locally at Raxx.

The library is expanding with a new “Library of Things”—games, tech, and more now available to borrow.

And good news: the old PAL hockey rink is being replaced with a new facility.

Question of the week: Are local newspapers like Newsday still worth it?

Plus: Riesterer’s specials and online ordering updates.

What are your thoughts on any of the above? Let’s hear it.

 

#westhempsteadny #malverneny #hempsteadny