"Gratitude for all you do and have done for our tiny green gem of a Village" -Danielle G

In Celebration of Vanessa Merton, An Extraordinary Citizen of Hastings-on-Hudson

Where to start? How to express my gratitude for all you do and have done for our tiny green gem of a Village? Words fail, but here is my humble attempt.

I can’t think of a single other Hastings resident who has done more to contribute to our governance, especially on the issues of responsible land use (one of the first advocates for comprehensive planning), a thorough waterfront clean-up (founding member, Waterfront Watch) and an open transparent local government (fearless speaker of truth to power, always). Your reach extends beyond our local boundaries and you advocated for secure voting equipment and fair elections in Westchester County and beyond. Your ability to project future needs allows you to understand and advocate our needs well before our elected officials do/did and you always give your efforts and time to this place we call home, even when you really, really don’t have a spare second. More than once I received your emails (treatises actually) regarding complicated local issues, which you wrote after 1 AM. Most others would beg off due to the press of other business or family matters. However, you do not rest and you set the highest of bars for active citizen participation. Stated otherwise, you are an inspiration to your fellow citizens.

As the mighty Palisades watch over you, we live in a better Village because you live here and because you shared your brilliant advocacy with your fellow citizens. I wish you peace and send best wishes for a retirement well earned.

Best Regards and Many Thanks from Your Grateful Neighbor,
Danielle G