On February 26, 2026, the Bar Association held its annual Judges Dinner a long-standing tradition where local members of the judiciary are recognized. This year the Bar Association honored recently retired Administrative Judge of the Third Judicial District Hon. Gerald W. Connolly and welcomed recently appointed Court of Claims and Acting Supreme Court Justice Hon. Noel Mendez. Judge Connolly was introduced by Judge Debra Young, Statewide Coordinating Judge for Problem-Solving Courts & Rensselaer County Court Judge. President Tara Kersey presented Judge Connolly with a plaque congratulating him on his retirement and thanking him for his dedication to the bench and bar. Judge Mendez was introduced by Joseph O’Bryan, Esq.
Judge Connolly and Judge Young
Judge Mendez and Joseph O’Bryan, Esq.
Attendees from the NYS Court of Claims