Seen Around Town

2019

National Champs!

On January 19, the Colonie Pop Warner Junior Varsity Cheerleading Team won the national championship at the 2019 Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance Global Cheerleading National Championship in held Atlantic City – for the second year in a row. Honoring their victory at the February 28 Town Board meeting were Supervisor Paula Mahan, center, and other members of the Town Board, last row.

Blue Bison Champs

In January, Supervisor Paula Mahan and County Executive Dan McCoy recognized the Shaker High School Blue Bison Varsity Football Team for winning the 2018 Section II, Class AA Championship after an undefeated season. Shown with the team, at center, are North Colonie Superintendent D. Joseph Corr, Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, and Supervisor Paula Mahan.

Tennis Champs!

In January, Supervisor Paula Mahan and County Executive Dan McCoy recognized Shaker High School’s Girls Varsity Tennis Team for winning the 2018 Section II, Class AA Championship after an undefeated season. Shown with the team and Town Board members, right from center, are Supervisor Paula Mahan, Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, and North Colonie superintendent D. Joseph Corr.

Fit and Trim at Siena

In January, Supervisor Paula Mahan attended a ribbon-cutting for the newly expanded and upgraded Marcelle Athletic Complex/Alumni Recreation Center at Siena. Pictured with Siena Mascot Bernie, are, from left, Siena Vice President and Director of Athletics John D’Argenio, Turner Construction New York North Operations Manager Beth DiBattista, Supervisor Mahan, student government leaders Zachary Coderre, Gianna diGregorio, and Patrick Moran and Siena College President Br. F. Edward Coughlin, O.F.M, Ph.D.

2018

Lifesaver in Training?

Colonie Paramedic David Plouff shows five-year old Zakyi Burks the ins and outs of an ambulance at the Town's Harvest Fest, a community-wide celebration chock full of activities designed to appeal to all ages. The Town's CPR Department also conducted free "CPR Anytime" classes as part of its long-term effort to teach this easy-to-learn lifesaving technique to as many people as possible.

Forward Motion

New Colonie Police Department promotions and assignments were announced at the August 30 Town Board Meeting. Pictured, first row from left, are Public Safety Dispatcher Neil Blanchard, K-9 Handler Michael Clough with K-9 Eddie, Lt. Henry Rosenzweig (newly assigned to the Administration Division), Investigator Michael Warner, Lt. Robert Barrett, Supervisor Paula Mahan, Chief Jonathan Teale, Investigator Matthew Garrigan, Sgt. Guy Jubert (newly assigned to the Investigations Unit), Administrative Officer John Rockwell, Lt. Robert Donnelly (newly assigned to the Traffic Safety Unit), Sgt. Raymond Milham, and K-9 Handler Jason Orkwis, with K-9 Lock. From left, second row, are Town Board members Paul Rosano, Jennifer Whalen, Melissa Von Dollen, Linda Murphy, and Christopher Carey. Not pictured are Anthony Sidoti, named School Resource Officer, and Sgt. Daniel Belles, newly assigned to the Administrative Division.

Legacy of Honor

Many came out to honor former Trooper Michael J. Anson when Colonie's Roessleville Park was dedicated to his memory on November 8. Pictured are Supervisor Paula Mahan, center, members of the Anson family, left, and other Town officials, right. Many NYS Troopers, Colonie police officers, and volunteer firefighters from West Albany, Fuller Road, and Colonie Village also attended. Trooper Anson died earlier this year from an illness contracted while serving in 2001 at the World Trade Center.

It's In the Bag

Kids line up for a bag race at the Colonie Police Department's Community Night Out held on June 22 at Kiwanis Park. The evening of games, prizes, food, and fun was well attended. It was the second Community Night this season, the first held on June 6 at West Albany Park.

A Bigger Better Nursing Home

County Executive Dan McCoy gave Town Supervisor Paula Mahan and others a preview of upcoming renovations at the Albany County Nursing Home on October 18. Among planned improvements – new single occupancy rooms. McCoy said the goal is to have a nursing home Albany County can be "proud of."

Splish Splash!

Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Mahan cuts the ribbon on the Town's new splash pad at the Colonie Mohawk River Town Park on Schermerhorn Road. Joining her on July 16 are Town Board members, Town employees, and a young water lover happy to help prove nothing beats the heat like a good dousing! Town Board members holding the ribbon are, beginning second from left, are Paul Rosano, Melissa Von Dollen, Christopher Carey, David and Linda Murphy (fourth from right).

Youth in Local Government

Thirty-six students from Colonie Central, Shaker High, and CBA attended the Town's Students in Local Government Day on April 13 to learn how Town government functions in all its complexity. They also attended the Town Board meeting the night before. Pictured with the students are Supervisor Paula Mahan, center, and Town Board member Paul Rosano and Town Clerk Julie Gansle, first row, third from right and far-right, respectively. At far right, second row, is C. Michele Zilgme, Receiver of Taxes, and far right, last row, Town Board Member Linda Murphy, Town Justice Peter Crummey, and Laura Archambault of the Town's Youth Services Division.

Many Hands

More than 70 young people and adults from Albany County and the Town of Colonie put in more than 180 volunteer hours of hands-on labor at the Pruyn House as part of this year's Global Youth Service Day event held on Saturday, April 28. The Pruyn House was only one of several venues where students aged 12 and over could volunteer to perform three hours of volunteer labor. Local participation in the worldwide event was organized by the Town's Division of Youth Services and Albany County. Lots of fun and a gorgeous day!

One of Their Own

Trooper Michael J. Anson's wife, Suzanne, the Anson children, and NYS Troopers who attended the November 8 dedication of Colonie's Roessleville Park as the Trooper Michael J. Anson Memorial Park. Anson was a NYS Trooper for more than 31 years. He died in January from an illness contracted while serving at the World Trade Center after the 2001 terrorist attack.

Colonie Roots

Supervisor Paula Mahan and Chief Jonathan Teale, far right, with some of the many Colonie Police officers who attended the dedication of Colonie's Roessleville Park as the Trooper Michael J. Anson Memorial Park. A graduate of Colonie High, Anson supervised summer recreation programs in the park as a young man. He died earlier this year as a result of an illness contracted while serving at the World Trade Center in 2001.

A Cup with a Cop

Colonie Police Officer Tracy Burns was on hand to chat with community members as part of Coffee with a Cop at the Newton Plaza Starbucks on October 3. The idea is to provide a relaxed and casual setting for people to interact with police officers. Begun in 2011, Coffee with a Cop events have expanded to all 50 states and many other countries. According to the Coffee with a Cup website, the secret of the program's success is that "it opens the door for interactions outside of the crisis situations that typically bring law enforcement officers and community members together."

Little Rider

According to our sources, three-year old Leo Darvin loved his first-ever pony ride at the Town's Harvest Fest celebration on September 16. One of the Town's most well-attended events, the celebration also featured hay rides, clowns, music, and other entertainments for kids.

Lifetime of Service

Past Chief Lawrence Washburn, Sr., center right, was honored for over 65 years of service to the Latham Fire Department at its 83rd annual Old Timers Night on October 20. Also shown are LFD President Art Wagoner, Colonie Supervisor Paula Mahan, and Chief David Austen.

Babe Ruth Champs

The North Colonie Bison 15u Baseball Team and their coaches were recognized at the September 27 Town Board meeting for winning the Northeastern New York Babe Ruth State Championships. Town Board members pictured are, second row, starting third from from left, Paul Rosano, Melisa Von Dollen, Supervisor Paula Mahan, and last row, second from left, Jennifer Whalen, Christopher Carey, David Green, and Linda Murphy.

Eastern NY State Champs 8!

The North Colonie Bison Blue 8u Baseball Team and coaches, shown here at the September 27 Town Board meeting after being recognized for their win of the Eastern New York Cal Ripken Tournament, the Bison Blue's fourth straight title at the 8u level.

Accepting the Challenge

Gail Wrieden, center, was recognized by Supervisor Paula Mahan and the Colonie Town Board for her outstanding leadership in starting and enhancing the My Challenger Program, which provides special needs children with the experience of playing youth sports in baseball, basketball, soccer, and bowling.

Eastern NY State Champs 9u!

The North Colonie Bison Blue 9u Baseball Team and their coaches with the Colonie Town Board after being recognized for winning the 2018 Eastern New York Cal Ripken State Championship. This is the team's second straight title at the 9u level.

Classic Rockers

The ever-popular Pipe Kings played an ever-receptive crowd at the Town's Harvest Fest on September 16. On sax is Joe Vellano, who has made lots of music for the Town, both by playing classic rock at events like Harvest Fest and by organizing and arranging funding for the annual Thursday Night Concerts at The Crossings series.

Gaining Ground

Shovels in hand, Town Supervisor Paula Mahan and Assemblyman Phil Steck were among those attending a groundbreaking for an expanded entrance to the Colonie Town Library. The project is being funded with some of the $1 million arranged by Assemblyman Steck for improvements at the library. The bigger and brighter new entrance will open up space for a new reading area and provide enhanced access to the library for patrons of every ability. Pictured at September 11, 2018 event are, from left, Town Board members Melissa Von Dollen, Linda Murphy, and Jennifer Whalen, Library Director Evelyn Neale, Supervisor Mahan, Assemblyman Steck, and Town Board member Paul Rosano.

Colonie's Newest Police Officers

Three new Colonie Police officers were sworn in at the June 21 Town Board meeting, bringing the total number of officers to an all-time high of 114. Pictured from left are new officers Christopher Van Alstyne and Brandon Mueller, Colonie Police Chief Jonathan Teale, Supervisor Paula Mahan, and new officer Christopher Hooks. Also pictured, second row from left, are Town Board members Jennifer Whalen, Melissa Von Dollen, David Green, Christopher Carey, and Linda Murphy.

Proud Winners

The Colonie Police Department's Tactical Team recently won the 'Tactical Week' training exercise at the State Preparedness Training Center in Oriskany. Eight tactical teams from around the state participated in the three-day event, running through complex and evolving scenarios based on recent emergencies. Colonie's team posted the best time and performance to take first place. The Preparedness Training Center is operated by the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

Commemorating the Fourth

Supervisor Paula Mahan, center, joined, from left, Colonie Town Justice Peter Crummey, Bruce Gembala and Louis Pierro at the Greater Loudonville Association's annual Fourth of July ceremony held in Loudon Green.

It's in the Bag Again

This time with some bigger kids, much to the amusement of the crowd at the Colonie Police Department's Community Night Out at Kiwanis Park on June 22.

Colonie K-9

Officer Jerry Shaw addresses those gathered to see a demonstration of the Town's K-9 unit with police dog K-9 Vader. The demonstration was featured at the CPD's Community Night Out at the West Albany Pocket Park on June 8. The well attended event also featured food, games, prizes, and other police demonstrations.

All Smiles

Supervisor Paula Mahan, front row, and Town Board Member Melissa Von Dollen, back row left, join Lt. Henry Rosenzweig and others at the Colonie Police Department's Community Night Out Event at West Albany Park on June 8. A big crowd of West Albany community members came out for food, games, prizes, demonstrations, and lots of fun. This is the second year the CPD's Community Partnership for Community Services has organized free community events.

Down the Fairway!

William Ward was able to hit the ball over 100 yards from his chair with special adaptive equipment provided through the PGA HOPE golf program at the Town of Colonie Golf Course. A paraplegic as a result of injuries sustained while serving as a U.S. Marine, Ward was one of several disabled veterans who attended the program this summer. Funded by PGA of America and coordinated through the Albany VA, PGA HOPE attracted 8 to 10 veterans each week for the seven-week course. Designed to introduce golf to non-players and hone the skills of those who already play, the Colonie program is one of just 30 nationwide. Golf Course General Manager Noel Gebauer, who took special instructor training, said the program was one of "the most rewarding things" he's been part of professionally. Plans are already underway to hold the PGA HOPE program again next year.

Fire Departments Host Open Houses

Town Supervisor Paula Mahan joined volunteer firefighters at the Fuller Road Fire Department to kick off RecruitNY, a statewide effort to help increase the number of volunteer firefighters. All across NYS, volunteer fire departments will open their doors on April 28 and 29, and volunteer firefighters will be on hand to give tours, demonstrate firefighting techniques, and discuss what's involved in being a volunteer firefighter. RecruitNY is a joint effort of the Firemen's Association of the State of NY, the NYS Association of Fire Chiefs, the Association of Fire Districts of NYS, Volunteer Police Association of the State of NY, and County Fire Coordinators Association of the State of NY.

At Long Last!

Longtime resident and golfer Paul Hart tunes up for the season on the Colonie Golf Course driving range. In spite of an uncooperative spring season, the course opened two nines for play on Friday, April 13. Golf Course General Manager and head pro Noel Gebauer said the volume of calls they'd been receiving made him anticipate a busy opening. The Town of Colonie Golf Course is the busiest course between Boston and Buffalo, averaging 60,000 rounds a year while hosting several tournaments, including the PGA Pro-Pro Championship.

Kudos for Moriah

At the January 18 Town Board meeting, Supervisor Paula Mahan presented a proclamation to Shaker High senior Moriah Formica in recognition of her success on NBC's "The Voice" competition. Also pictured are Moriah's family and friends and, from left, back row, Town Board members Paul Rosano, Melissa Jeffers Von Dollen, Christopher Carey, David Green, Jennifer Whalen and, far right, Linda Murphy.

I Solemnly Swear

Paula Mahan takes the Oath of Office for her sixth term as Colonie Town Supervisor at a January 4 ceremony at Town Hall. Her husband, Joseph Mahan, Jr., holds the Bible as Albany Family Court Judge Margaret T. Walsh administers the Oath of Office. Other Colonie elected officials sworn in at the ceremony were returning Town Board Members David Green and Linda Murphy and newly elected Town Board Member Melissa Jeffers Von Dollen; newly elected Town Clerk Julie Gansle; incumbent Receiver of Taxes C. Michele Zilgme; and re-elected Town Justices Norman Massry and Andrew Sommers.

2017

Building for the Future

Supervisor Paula Mahan, Albany County Fire Coordinator Jerry Paris, and others recently welcomed Assemblyman Phil Steck to the Town's Municipal Training Center at an event outlining planned upgrades there. Major capital improvements will be made possible with $500,000 arranged by Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Assemblyman Steck, among other Town investments. Pictured, from left, are Town Senior Fire Protection Specialist Joseph Bisognano, Colonie EMS Chief Peter Berry, Fire Coordinator Paris, Supervisor Mahan, Assemblyman Steck, Lt. Robert Winn of the Colonie Police Department, Town Board Member Paul Rosano, Colonie Patrol Officers William Guthrie and Joseph Fitsimmons, and Commissioner of Public Works John Cunningham. Every year, thousands of first responders from throughout the Capital Region – including fire, police, and EMS personnel – train at the Municipal Training Center, annually logging more than 40,000 hours of specialized training.

Affordable Senior Housing

Colonie Supervisor Paula Mahan and others were on hand June 20 for the ribbon-cutting of the new King-Thiel Senior Community on Elks Lane, which has 96 affordably priced apartments, all of them rented. Pictured with residents holding the ribbon are, front row, from left, Colonie Director of Planning and Economic Development Joseph LaCivita, Supervisor Paula Mahan, lead donors Kathlene Thiel and J. Eric King, and another resident. Second row, from left, Town Board Members David Rowley and Linda Murphy, Planning Board member Louis Mion, Colonie Senior Service Centers Executive Director Ed Neary, and CDPHP CEO Dr. John Bennett, who served as Capital Campaign Chair.

Super Bowl Champs

The Colonie Town Board recently honored the Colonie Pop Warner Raiders, who last November won the Super Bowl championship for the first time in 14 years. Shown with the team, its coaches, and cheerleaders are Supervisor Paula Mahan, second from right third row, and Town Board Members Paul Rosano and Jennifer Whalen, second from left and far right, third row. Town Board Member Linda Murphy is second from left, fourth row, and Board Members Christopher Carey, David Green, and David Rowley are shown from the left, in the back row.

Colonie's Newest Officers

Five new police officers were sworn in at the December 7 Town Board Meeting. Pictured, from left front row, are officers Casey Ogden, Zahoor Anwer, Colonie Police Chief Jonathan Teale, Supervisor Paula Mahan, and officers Jonathan Kayser, Ryan Leonardo, and Christopher VanBlarcom. In the second row, from left, are Town Board members Paul Rosano, David Green, David Rowley, Christopher Carey, Linda Murphy, and Jennifer Whalen. Colonie Police Department staffing recently reached the highest level ever.

Heavy Hitters

Supervisor Paula Mahan and the Town Board recognized the 2017 North Colonie Bison Blue 8u All-Star Baseball Team at the August 10 Town Board meeting. The team won the Eastern New York District 1 Championship and the Eastern New York Cal Ripken 8-Year Old State Championship, advancing to the Middle Atlantic Regional Tournament, where they finished 2-2. With the team and their coaches are Supervisor Mahan, foreground, second from right, and Town Board members Paul Rosano and Jennifer Whalen, at left and right. Pictured, back row, are Town Board members David Green, center, and Linda Murphy and Christopher Carey, far right, respectively. Town Attorney Michael Maggiulli is shown in the background.

Colonie Historian Honored

Colonie Town Historian Kevin Franklin, center, was named Citizen of the Year by the Menands/Watervliet Rotary on July 26. At the award ceremony are, from left, Menands Mayor Meg Grenier, Supervisor Paula Mahan, Peter Mason of the Menands/Watervliet Rotary, and Bill Sage, President of the Hudson Shores Rotary Club. Last October, Franklin was honored by the Capital Area Archivists of New York when he received the Sister Elaine Wheeler Award for his "lifelong dedication to archives and records management in New York State." Franklin has been Colonie's Town Historian since 2003.

Blue Butterflies

Supervisor Paula Mahan recently joined Chris Hawver, Executive Director of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, and Commission member Nancy Pierson (left to right) at an event highlighting the resurgence of the Karner Blue Butterfly in the Pine Bush. In 2016, the Karner Blue population there increased to more than 15,000, from only 1,000 in 2007. Supervisor Mahan also serves on the Pine Bush Preserve Commission.

On Tour

NYS Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie toured the Town of Colonie's Municipal Training Center on August 17. Pictured, front row, starting second from left, are Town Senior Fire Protection Specialist Joseph Bisognano, Supervisor Paula Mahan, Assemblyman Phil Steck, and Speaker Heastie. In the second row are Colonie EMS Chief Peter Berry and Town Board member David Rowley, third and fourth from left, and Albany County Fire Coordinator Jerry Paris, second from right. Also pictured are Fire Chiefs from the Town's volunteer fire companies. Every year, thousands of first responders from throughout the Capital Region – including fire, police, and EMS personnel – train at the Municipal Training Center, annually logging more than 40,000 hours of specialized training.

Proud Family

The family of Daniel Seaver, center, Water Engineer for the Town's Latham Water District, is all smiles after he received the American Water Works Association's 2017 George Warren Fuller Award, widely considered the water industry's most prestigious recognition. New York Section Chair Martin Amen, left, presented the award at the organization's Spring Meeting in Saratoga Springs.

Community Fun

Lots of kids had lots of fun at a free community picnic on June 9 organized by the Colonie Police Department's Community Service Unit – the first such picnic in 15 years. Lots of games, prizes, food, and police demonstrations ensured that a good time was had by all. Here, Traffic Investigator Jason DePaulo shows kids the ins and outs of a motorcycle. The CPD held a second community picnic, also lots of fun, at Kiwanis Park on June 23.

Adding Strength to Strength

Three new officers were sworn in at the Town Board meeting on June 22. That brings the Colonie Police Department's staffing level to 113 officers, the highest level ever. Pictured, from left, first row, are Police Chief Jonathan Teale, Supervisor Paula Mahan, and new officers Zachary J. McMahon, Conor G. Anson, and Evan T. Alaxanian. In the second row, from left, are Town Board members Paul Rosano, David Green, David Rowley, Jennifer Whalen, and Christopher Carey.

Take Me Out to The Ballgame

Supervisor Paula Mahan threw out the first pitch for the Albany Dutchmen in their new summer home at Siena College on opening night June 3. Pictured with her and the Dutchmen mascot is Dutchmen Vice President and General Manger Jason Brinkman. The team features top collegiate baseball players from across the country for a full season of competitive play. For more information about the Dutchmen, including scheduled games, baseball clinics, and special promotions , go to: www.dutchmenbaseball.com.

Popular Event

Residents line up to receive free tree seedlings at the Town's Arbor Day event on May 6. The annual seedling giveaway is one of the Town's most popular events and was a factor in the recent designation of Colonie as a "Tree City USA" by the national Arbor Day Foundation. The seedling giveaway is organized each year by the Town's Conservation Advisory Council.

All Aboard

Student volunteers with two wagonloads of tree seedlings, all of which were distributed at the Town's annual Arbor Day celebration on May 6. Many volunteers are needed to help wrap and pack each seedling individually the day before the event. The giveaway is organized each year by the Town's Conservation Advisory Council.

Global Youth Service Day

As part of Global Youth Service Day on April 29, the Town's Junior and Senior High Student Advisory Councils helped staff at an all-day kickball tournament, with members of the Junior High Council working the registration desk. Spearheaded by Colonie Central's ICARE team, the tournament raised $6,000 for the Regional Food Bank. Each year, participation in GYSD is organized by the Town's Youth Services Division.

Top Two Teams

Supervisor Paula Mahan holds the trophy awarded to team Cap Com at the "Kicking Out Hunger" kickball tournament. Also pictured are Town Board member Linda Murphy, center back, and second-place team "Just for Kicks." Spearheaded by Colonie Central High School's ICARE team, the tournament on April 29 raised $6,000 for the Regional Food Bank. Members of the Town's Junior and Senior High Student Advisory Councils helped staff at the event.

Bowled Over

The Town Board recently recognized the Colonie Central Girls Bowling Team for winning the 2017 Section II, Class A Girls Championship. Pictured, first row, are Team Coach Pete Grugan (left), Supervisor Paula Mahan, Assistant Coach (and former Town Board member) Bill Carl, and Town Board member Jennifer Whalen (fifth, second, and last from right). Back row, from left, are Town Board members Paul Rosano, David Green, David Rowley, Linda Murphy, and Chris Carey.

Inspecting the Ranks

Supervisor Paula Mahan and other Town officials joined the Colonie Police Department at Chief Jonathan Teale's annual inspection of the CPD's Explorer Post 185. Also pictured with the Explorers are Supervisor Mahan, first row, fourth from right; Town board members Chris Carey and Paul Rosano, first row right, respectively; Town Board member Linda Murphy, second row left; and Chief Teale and CPD Chaplain Father Mark Reamer, last row, far right.

Best Fork Forward!

Three ShopRite chefs battled it out on March 8 to win the Golden Fork Award, part of Albany County's participation in National Nutrition Month. Pictured, from left, are ShopRite Registered Dietician Rachel Robinson, Chef Paulette Dussard, Chef Nick Mancinelli, Village of Colonie Mayor Frank Leak, Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Mahan, Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, Chef Brandon Wood, and Albany County Clerk Bruce Hidley. Supervisor Mahan was one of the judges in the friendly competition. Chef Mancinelli earned the award.

Happy Hundredth Birthday

Supervisor Paula Mahan delivered best wishes to Lorraine Waite at her 100th birthday celebration on February 25. A Colonie resident for 50 years, Mrs. Waite is the mother of four and the grandmother, great-grandmother, or great-great-grandmother of 58. She bowled until age 97 and played in the Colonie Golf Course Senior League, until she was 98, winning many trophies. The secrets of her success: a sense of humor, dessert for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a glass of wine each day. Supervisor Mahan also presented Mrs. Waite with a proclamation recognizing her achievements.

Congratulations, Colonie Center!

From left, Supervisor Paula Mahan joins Colonie Center General Manager Connie Stankowitz, B95's Chad O'Hara, and Albany County Executive Dan MCoy at Colonie Center's gala fiftieth birthday celebration.

2016

Cutting the Ribbon

Supervisor Paula Mahan was joined October 4 by Colonie Senior Service Centers Executive Director Ed Neary and others at a ribbon-cutting for the new handicapped parking area at Town Hall. The project was made possible with funds provided by CSSC to satisfy the public benefit requirement for its new King Thiel Senior Community Housing project. Pictured, from left front, are Colonie Town Board member Paul Rosano, Ed Neary, CSSC Director J. Eric King, Supervisor Mahan, CSSC Director Anthony Mantello, and CSSC Director Emeritus Michael Hoblock; second row, Bill Neeley, the Town's Public Works Operations Supervisor, and Joseph LaCivita, Director of Planning and Economic Development.

New Barrier-Free Playground at Mohawk River Park

A Guardian Angel

Six-year-old James Assimon, front row center, made special guardian angel magnets for Colonie's police officers, which he delivered on December 7. The boy, repeatedly hospitalized since birth, began making magnets with his mother as a way to make people smile. Also pictured are Supervisor Paula Mahan and Police Chief Jonathan Teale, second row, first and third right of center. While visiting the CPD, James also got a special tour of the department and a chance to ride with the Supervisor in a police cruiser.
Photo courtesy: Tanja Rekhi, Time Warner Cable News.

Toys for Tots

Every year, Town employees give generously to Toys for Tots. Here, Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Mahan receives certificates of appreciation from Tim Forbes of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve at a Toys for Tots party hosted by the Town's elected officials including, from left, Town Councilmen Christopher Carey and Paul Rosano, Town Clerk Liz DelTorto, Councilwoman Linda Murphy, Supervisor Mahan, and Councilwoman Jennifer Whalen, as well as Receiver of Taxes C. Michele Zilgme and Councilmen David Green and David Rowley, who are not pictured.

A Guardian Angel

Six-year-old James Assimon, front row center, made special guardian angel magnets for Colonie's police officers, which he delivered on December 7. The boy, repeatedly hospitalized since birth, began making magnets with his mother as a way to make people smile. Also pictured are Supervisor Paula Mahan and Police Chief Jonathan Teale, second row, first and third right of center. While visiting the CPD, James also got a special tour of the department and a chance to ride with the Supervisor in a police cruiser.
Photo courtesy: Tanja Rekhi, Time Warner Cable News.

Wide Open Spaces

The Open Space Institute recently gave Schuyler Flatts, a 23-acre property steeped in colonial history, to the Town of Colonie. OSI acquired the National Landmark parcel in 1998, capping a 25-year preservation effort. In 2002, the Town created and has since maintained the Schuyler Flatts Cultural Park there. At an event marking the transfer, Town Supervisor Paula Mahan thanked OSI's Dawn Haight, Director of Stewardship, and Eileen Larrabee, Director of Communications (at left and right of sign), for OSI's "respectful stewardship" of the land. Also pictured, from left, are Charley Flanagan, Town Historian Kevin Franklin, Supervisor Mahan, Tony Brankman, and BeBe Morehead. Flanagan, Brankman, and Morehead are all past presidents of the Colonie Historical Society, which has a long history of involvement with the Flatts.

New Officer for the CPD

Richard E. Bell, center, was appointed as a new police officer for the Colonie Police Department at the October 20 Town Board meeting. Also pictured are Colonie Police Chief Jonathan Teale, left, and Town Supervisor Paula Mahan.

Dinner is Served! Dinner is Served!

Town of Colonie officials and staff cooked and served 200 pasta and meatball dinners at The Crossings on October 14, raising $1,600 to benefit the William K. Sanford Town Library. Bella Napoli Bakery, BJ's Wholesale Club, Hannaford, Restaurant Depot, Sam's Club, ShopRite, and Walmart helped support the event with in-kind donations. Pictured are, front row, Russ Harding, Mary Berger, Robert Ekstrom, Supervisor Paula Mahan, Library Director Evelyn Neale, Councilman Paul Rosano; second row, Town Attorney Michael Maggiulli, Mary Maggiulli, Former Town Comptroller Craig Blair, Judy Ekstrom, Joseph Mahan, Councilwomen Jennifer Whalen and Linda Murphy, Frank Santoro; back row, Deputy Supervisor David Rowley, Sara Wiest, Town Justice Peter Crummey, Councilmen Christopher Carey and David Green.

Team Victorious

The Colonie Police Department's Team 301 recently placed 1st in the Corporate/Public Service Division in the Adirondack Ragnar Relay. It also placed 12th overall out of 277 competing teams. As a group, Team 301 averaged a 7:51/mile pace over the 196.2-mile course, finishing 2 hours and 20 minutes ahead of their projected time. Team 301 ran to benefit The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of CPD Investigator Ed Frank. Pictured from left, kneeling, are team members Derek Breslin, David Mink, Louis DiNuzzo, and Thomas Breslin; standing, Alex Rinaldi, Jason DePaulo, Nick Burns, Richard Villa, Phil Gerwitz, Robert Willey, Todd Weiss, Nick Layne, and Nicki Tonic. Great job Team 301!

Top Staffing Level

Six new police officers were sworn in at the May 26 Town Board meeting. That brings the CPD staffing level to 112 officers, the highest number in the last 25 years. Pictured from left, first row, are Colonie Police Chief Jon Teale, Officer Aaron Hanley, Supervisor Paula Mahan, and Officers Amanda Paris, Eithane McCarthy, Ty Bariteau, Erik Nielsen, and Matthew Stott. From left, second row, are Town Board Members Paul Rosano, David Green, David Rowley, Linda Murphy, Christopher Carey, and Jennifer Whalen (partially obscured).

EMS Actions

The February 27, 2016 Town Board meeting saw action on several new EMS appointments and promotions. From left, first two rows, Robert Elling (retiring paramedic), Christopher Rench (promoted to Captain), Christopher Kostyun (promoted to Asst. Chief), Dr. Michael Dailey (Medical Director), Paul Fink (retiring Asst. Chief), Supervisor Paula Mahan, Asst. Chief Jack Bevilacqua, Hayley Smith (new EMT), EMS Chief Peter Berry, Bryce Foggo (new EMT), Erin Kelly (Captain), Robert Potter (new paramedic), Samantha Sullivan (volunteer), Andrew Cohen (new EMT), and Timothy LeBlanc (new paramedic). In the third row, from left, are Town Board members Paul Rosano, David Green, David Rowley, Linda Murphy, Jennifer Whalen, and Christopher Carey.

New Officers

Two new police officers were appointed to the Colonie Police Department at the Town Board Meeting on February 11. From left front row are Supervisor Paula Mahan, new officers Brianna Pierce and Taylor Carey, newly named Sergeant Daniel Grebert, newly named Detective Sergeant Peter Guillinese, and Colonie Police Chief Jonathan Teale. In the second row, from left, are Town Board members Paul Rosano, David Green, David Rowley, Linda Murphy, Jennifer Whalen, and Christopher Carey.

Life Savers

The Red Cross honored two Colonie Police officers at a ceremony on Friday, March 4, 2016 for their life-saving actions at Bella Napoli Bakery on Christmas Eve. Pictured from left are honorees Officer Joe Valiquette and Deputy Chief Michael Woods with Supervisor Paula Mahan and Colonie Police Chief Jon Teale.

NYS Government Q&A

The Town's Youth Advisory Board learned about the state legislative process March 3, 2016 at a question and answer session with Assemblyman Phil Steck, 110th Assembly District (second row, third from left). Made up of students from the Town's three high schools – CBA, Colonie Central, and Shaker High – the Youth Advisory Board also performs service projects benefiting the community.

State of the Town

Supervisor Paula Mahan delivered her 2016 State of the Town address January 21 both at an Albany-Colonie Chamber of Commerce event and a Town Board meeting later that day. Shown at the Chamber event are, from left, Congressman Paul Tonko, Chamber CEO Mark Eagan, Supervisor Mahan, and Richard Sleasman of CBRE Albany, which co-sponsored the event.

That's Amore!

Supervisor Paula Mahan joins owner Robert Amore as he cuts the ribbon on the new Amore menswear store at 595 New Loudon Road. Shown with other members of the Amore family are Tom Nolte, President of the Colonie Chamber of Commerce, far left, and Mary Rozak, representing Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, far right. (2016)

2015

Jet Blue Ribbon Cutting

Supervisor Paula Mahan, center left, and County Executive Dan McCoy, center right, join the region's jetBlue manager on December 10 as she cuts the ribbon inaugurating Jet Blue's new service at the Albany International Airport (2015).

BurgerFi Grand Opening

Supervisor Paula Mahan helped cut the ribbon at the September grand opening of BurgerFi in Latham. Also shown are members of the BurgerFi team and, front row left, Colonie Chamber of Commerce President Tom Nolte, Assemblyman Phil Steck, Supervisor Mahan, Bill Lia and wife, Angelo Mazzone, County Executive Dan McCoy, and Mark Eagan, president of the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce (2015).

Deck the Halls

Young singers lead the crowd in holiday songs at the Greater Loudonville Association's annual tree lighting at Loudon Green on Sunday, November 29 2015.

Promoted to New Duties

Five Colonie Police Officers received promotions at the Colonie Town Board meeting on December 7, 2015. Pictured from left are new sergeants James Herbst and John Santorio, Colonie Police Chief Jonathan Teale, Supervisor Paula Mahan, newly named Lieutenant Henry Rosenzweig and Sgts. John O'Donnell and Bob Barrett, both of whom have new administrative duties. Sgt. O'Donnell will be the new Traffic Safety Unit Sergeant, replacing Sgt. David Leonardo, who is retiring. Sgt. Barrett is the new Administrative Unit Sergeant, replacing Henry Rosenzweig, who was promoted to Lieutenant. Town Board members shown are, from left second row, David Green, David Rowley, Linda Murphy, Paul Rosano, and Brian Haak.

Operation Welcome Home

County Executive Dan McCoy and Supervisor Paula Mahan, center, helped kick off Operation Welcome Home at the Colonie ShopRite. Spearheaded by Albany County, Operation Welcome Home will collect personal items for soldiers from the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines returning from a deployment in the Middle East. Also pictured with members of the Marine Corps League, are, from left, Blue Star Mother Ann Madeo, Albany County Clerk Bruce Hidley, ShopRite's Shannon DeFreese, and Village of Colonie Mayor Frank Leak (2015).

New Officers for the CPD

Supervisor Paula Mahan and Colonie Police Chief Jonathan Teale introduced ten new Colonie police officers at Colonie's Public Safety Center on October 22, 2015. Shown with Supervisor Mahan are, from front row left , Town Board member Paul Rosano and new officers Javier Martinez, William Guthrie, Patrick Murphy, Ryan Berkery, Ardit Potka, Alexandra Hart, Jason Perry, Austin Blais, Jordan Rando, and Alvin Guerrero. Second row, from left, Town Board members Brian Haak, Linda Murphy, and Deputy Supervisor William Carl. All ten officers were officially appointed at the Town Board meeting later that day.

Integra Open House

Supervisor Paula Mahan, center, chats with IntegraOptics CEO David Prescott, right, and President Jason Zarillo, left, at an August 13, 2015 open house for the company's newly expanded headquarters in a renovated airplane hanger at Albany International Airport. The fiber optics company, which now occupies two former hangers, has doubled its workforce since 2013 and also has employees at its new start-up, Integra LED.

Team Kickball

Supervisor Paula Mahan joined the Colonie Police Department's kickball team for the 2nd annual Kick It 4 Kids Corporate Challenge to benefit the Albany Police Athletic League's youth programs.

Ring That Bell

Supervisor Paula Mahan got assistance from Shea Hildenbrandt ringing the opening bell for the Farmers' Market at The Crossings on May 12, 2015. Among others joining in were Town Clerk Liz DelTorto (back left) and Town Board member Paul Rosano (far right). Featuring more than 30 vendors, the Farmers' Market will be open from 9 am to 1 pm Saturdays through September 12.

Topping the List

Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Mahan was named Elected Official of the Year by the American Public Works Association's Capital Branch on February 27 in recognition of her support for important infrastructure projects. Two Town projects also won top awards for projects under $5 million. The Sand Creek Road Improvement Project was named Transportation Project of the Year and the Water Treatment Filter Repair Project at the Mohawk View Water Treatment Plant was named Disaster or Emergency Repair Project of the Year. Pictured at the awards ceremony are Town of Colonie employees Pure Waters Superintendent Chretien Voerg, Water Engineer Dan Seaver, Latham Water Superintendent John Frazer, Supervisor Mahan, Public Works Operations Supervisor Bill Neeley, DPW Commissioner John Cunningham and Chief Water Treatment Operator Dan Marshall.