ALBANY, NY – New York State’s Capital Region was ablaze with Hellenic pride on March 25, celebrating the Bicentennial of the start of the Greek War of Independence. Buildings throughout the region, including the Alfred E. Smith Building, State Education Building, and SUNY Central in downtown Albany; City Hall, Amtrak, Key Bank, and the Erie Boulevard Bridge in Schenectady; and Troy’s City Hall in the Hedley Building, were lit in blue and white.

Through the efforts of Senator Daphne Jordan, Steve Bobarakis, Nia Cholakis, and Despina Brosnihan from St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church in Troy, Greeks throughout the region were able to view the celebratory lighting to commemorate 200 years of freedom. Several municipalities, including Albany and Watervliet, flew the Greek flag. Thanks were extended to Paul Huban and John Polydouris for flag distribution, and to Angelo Kontis of St. Sophia Church AHEPA Chapter 140 in Albany for efforts in the flag raising ceremony after the Annunciation Liturgy.

Celebrating 200 years of Greek Independence, left to right: Watervliet Mayor Charles Patricelli, Councilman Pete Torncello, Stephen Dybas, Paul Huban, Councilwoman Barbara Diamond, and City Manager Joe LaCivita. Photo: Paul Semon

Celebrating 200 years of Greek Independence, left to right: Paul Huban and Watervliet Mayor Charles Patricelli. Photo: Paul Semon

Albany AHEPA Chapter 140 celebrates Greek Independence Day with a flag raising ceremony as Rev. Fr. Patric Legato delivers the Annunciation prayers. Photo: Michael Koutsourades

The American flag is raised by St. Sophia Parish Council President Harry Ermides. Photo: Michael Koutsourades

H. Carl McCall SUNY Building on Broadway in Downtown Albany lit in honor of Greek Independence Day. Photo: Michael Koutsourades

NYS Education Building on Washington Ave. in Downtown Albany. Photo: Michael Koutsourades

The Amtrak station in Schenectady, NY. Photo: Nia Cholakis

Schenectady City Hall. Photo: Nia Cholakis

Key Bank in Schenectady, NY. Photo: Nia Cholakis

Troy, NY City Hall in the Hedley Building. Photo: Nia Cholakis