This Week In We3st Hempstead: Week of July 2nd

Countdown to the 4th of July

The big day is almost here! From backyard BBQs and festive block parties to booming fireworks displays, West Hempstead is ready to celebrate Independence Day. Scroll down for a list of legal fireworks viewing spots around Nassau County.

On the Campaign Trail: Local Elections Heat Up

Jean-Baptiste Carelus, candidate for Town of Hempstead Council, was seen canvassing neighborhoods with School Board Trustee Kurt Rockensies, meeting voters and sharing his message ahead of the fall election.

Also making waves, Moshe Hill, candidate for Nassau County Legislature District 5, hosted a packed campaign fundraiser Tuesday night at the American Legion Hall. Dignitaries in attendance included County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Supervisor Candidate John Ferretti, Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, and former Assemblyman Dov Hikind.

D.C. Delay: What’s Holding Up D’Esposito’s Nomination?

An opinion piece in Newsday’s Daily Point is raising questions about a delay in confirming Anthony D’Esposito as Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Insiders suggest that Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska may be using the nomination as a bargaining chip in negotiations over President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill.” D’Esposito’s confirmation appeared to be moving through the Senate, but has now stalled without clear explanation.

Education Spotlight: Class of 2025 Soars

The local school district closed out the academic year on a high note with some impressive stats:

97% graduation rate

93% of seniors heading to higher education or service

67% → 4-year colleges

23% → 2-year colleges

3% → trade schools

2% → military

$3.1 million in scholarships awarded

A remarkable finish to an extraordinary year!

New School Policy: Personal Electronic Devices

Superintendent Dan Rehman announced a new district-wide policy (Policy 5130) regarding student use of smartphones and internet-connected devices:

Elementary Schools: No internet-enabled devices permitted Middle & High Schools: Devices must be silenced and stored in lockers or designated areas

Exceptions include:

Students with IEPs or 504 plans

Health-related needs (with documentation)

Emergency use

Translation or family caregiving (case-by-case)

Parents are asked to contact school offices during the day if they need to reach their child. Implementation details will be released soon.

Community PSA: Halls Pond Warning

A local resident sounded the alarm about illegal fishing and animal dumping at Halls Pond.

Concerns include:

Non-native turtles being released

Fishing and trapping despite posted rules

Animal mistreatment by adults and children

The DEC and local authorities have been notified and will increase patrols. Hefty fines may be issued for violators. The community is urged to respect wildlife and park rules.

Library Renovation Begins

The West Hempstead Library begins main floor renovations on Wednesday, July 2.

Computers and printers will be unavailable

The library will be closed on July 4th

Riesterer’s: A Star-Spangled Sweet Spot

Celebrate the Fourth with festive cakes, cookies, and desserts from Riesterer’s Bakery