West Nyack Residents Form Heritage Group

The West Nyack hamlet revitalization is scheduled for 2015. In preparation for this, several residents have come together to form a civic association group called the Heritage of West Nyack as a way to give the hamlet a voice.

“We’re excited at the prospect of moving West Nyack forward,” said Bert Dahm, lifelong resident of West Nyack and president of Heritage. “We have a beautiful hamlet, a rich heritage and the promise of a revitalization which will protect, enhance and redefine our hometown for the next century.”

“We want to preserve the history of West Nyack and have a voice for West Nyack. This hamlet has a lot to offer,” said Madeline Muller, Heritage member.

The West Nyack Revitalization plan came to a proposed $15 million when it was presented at an October Clarkstown town board workshop. The multifaceted project included streetscape enhancements, drainage upgrades, park improvements, increase parking and relocation of utilities.

When councilmembers questioned the high pricetag followed by objections from several West Nyack residents, saying that their hamlet should not be overlooked any longer.

The introduction of the Heritage of West Nyack comes at a very timely moment. With the recent demolition of the Teabury Port House, West Nyack residents feel more compelled to start this organization.

“West Nyack is full of heritage, for example, this is where the last witch trial took place. You begin to turn over the rocks and realize there’s a lot of history here,” said Dahm. “We got together as the locals of this hamlet and realized we needed an independent voice in the revitilzation program.”

Heritage was chartered in April. In November, the Heritage received its 501c3 status as a not-for-profit organization and plans to engage in many activities designed to focus on the rich history of the hamlet, promote projects to improve its ambiance, security and appearance and act as a liason between the community and the town of Clarkstown.

Heritage is seeking membership from businesses, individuals and families to fund its activities. Membership is tax deductible.

“West Nyack has gotten through rough times with floods and storms. It’s been beaten down and needs a boost,” said Muller.

“Unfortunately, government and mother nature has put quite a few unpleasant things in West Nyack, like the quarry, the thruway, the mall, swamps, the dump, the railroad and more,” said Dahm.

The town appointed a West Nyack revitalization committee, which includes

• John Tobin
• Mark Brecher
• Russel Rolnick
• Madeline Muller
• Jack Rosen

Several members overlap with those in the Heritage. Founders, directors and officers include

• President—Bert Dahm
• Vice President—Madeline Muller
• Secretary—Michael Gach
• Treasurer—John Tobin
• Directors—Russel Rolnick, Mark Brecher, Lorette Adams

Activities/Events

The next meeting of the Heritage of West Nyack is Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the West Nyack Library.

One of the Heritage’s first activities it’s involved with is the upcoming West Nyack Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at the West Nyack Hamlet Park. On Friday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. The lighting is hosted by the West Nyack Rotary, which Heritage is assisting in. The ceremony will include carolers from West Nyack and Strawtown schools, coffee, hot chocolate, hot cider and cupcakes.

Projects include

• Small community outreach meetings planned to provide information and input for the hamlet revitalization
• a campaign to replace the historic iron fence and repair the 100-year-old stone walls at the corner of Strawtown and Germonds Roads.
• Restore other hamlet items that have historical significance
• Continuing the tradition of providing flowers at the post office

“This will survive the revitalization and become an ongoing organization to collect the heritage that is here,” said Dahm.

Joining

Interested residents and friends can contact Heritage and download membership applications at its website: HeritageOfWestNyack.org. You do not have to be a resident to join

Completed applications and comments may be placed in the suggestion box in the lobby of the post office or mailed to PO Box 46, West Nyack, NY 10994. You can also contact the following Heritage members:

• Bert Dahm 845 358 5463
• Madeline Muller 845 353 0608

Dues for a 1-year membership

• $15 Individual
• $25 Household
• $100 Business

Dues are not pro-rated. If you make a donation in addition to your annual dues, it would be contributed to the organization’s annual expenses, materials, events, beautification, etc. and your donations would be recognized throughout the year and provide you with an additional receipt for tax purposes