I am incredibly proud of all that has transpired in our community this year. In the midst of a global pandemic and challenges to racial justice; Nyack continues to lead by example committed to safety, health, and equality. I admire our amazing downtown business owners, who have risen to the occasion with the strength and resiliency that is Nyack.

Montefiore Nyack Hospital and its amazing team of health care heroes deserve our deepest gratitude as they continue to brave the COVID storm. It is important that we remain diligent with mask wearing, social distancing and good hygiene as the winter months present a resurgence of the virus. Hope is on the horizon as we anticipate the arrival and distribution of the vaccine in the coming months.

Our community demonstrated our support and thanks to our essential workers throughout the year. A wide spectrum of musicians came together outside the hospital throughout the peak of the pandemic, providing music to essential workers, and inspiring hope and optimism to onlookers. Others delivered meals, face masks, and other protective equipment to members of the community. At night, one could hear pots and pans echoing through the streets of Nyack, a gesture to celebrate the brave contributions of our healthcare professionals.

Our collective actions this year showed Nyack's commitment to racial equity and social justice. The Teen Council from the Nyack Center led us in a powerful and peaceful demonstration through our downtown following the murder of George Floyd; a memorial to Congressman John Lewis, and a mural on Main Street all give witness to the fact that Black lives do matter in our community.

The Village Board said goodbye to Senator-Elect Elijah Reichlin-Melnick. We thank him for his service to Nyack and wish him continued success in Albany.

With great admiration and affection we thank Dr. Frances Pratt for her leadership of the Nyack NAACP for the past 40 years! Dr. Pratt has been a fierce advocate for the common goal of ensuring the political, educational, social and economic equality of the rights of all persons and to eliminate discrimination. Her gentle demeanor and words of encouragement were always accompanied with a reminder of her commitment to justice and equity. A well-timed joke, a quote from Scripture, an offer for prayer were always a part of every conversation.

I personally will miss her phone calls to encourage me to stay the course and sometimes to do better. Our conversations always occurred when I needed them the most. Thank you Dr. Pratt for your leadership, your mentorship and your friendship.

Dr. Frances Pratt

The pandemic has left a devastating impact on our local economy. However, Nyack remains a destination for visitors looking to experience our walkable village with its shops, fine dining, proximity to state parks and the new shared-use path on the Bridge. There are over a dozen new businesses in town, and we encourage everyone to shop local, dine local and support our post-pandemic revitalization.

2020 was a year of virtual gatherings and sharing. The pandemic kept us from in-person celebrations and events like the Art Walk, Memorial Day Parade, African-American Parade, PRIDE month, Halloween Parade, Street Fairs, the Great Nyack Get Together, and Music on the Hudson. I am optimistic that 2021 will bring us closer than 6 feet!

Remember, we are all in this together.
Stay safe and healthy!

Mayor Don Hammond

You can contact us at (845) 358-0548, or visit www.Nyack-NY.gov.