J 403: Commending Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., upon the occasion of his designation as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade

 Senate Resolution No. 403 BY: Senator GRIFFO COMMENDING Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., upon the occasion of his designation as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to individuals of true purpose and worthy accomplishment who work diligently to preserve and celebrate their rich cultural heritage; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., upon the occasion of his designation as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday, March 15, 2025; and WHEREAS, The Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade started as a small group of Irishmen marching through the historic Brewery and Arts District and is now the third largest parade in New York State; and WHEREAS, The tradition of the Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade is steeped in more than 200 years of history with Grand Marshal John C. Devereux leading the first march through the historic Brewery and Arts District of Utica; today, the Utica Parade draws approximately 30,000 spectators as more than 5,000 marchers from across the State step off from Oneida Square and head north to Genesee Street; and WHEREAS, The Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee designated Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., as one of the highly esteemed Grand Marshals in recognition of his devotion and passion for the preservation and celebration of the Irish culture in his community; and WHEREAS, Tom Powers is a lifelong resident of Utica and long-time contributor to the Irish community in the Mohawk Valley; he is a successful entrepreneur, beloved community leader, and cornerstone of the community for more than 25 years, earning him the honor of Grand Marshal at this year's parade; and WHEREAS, The owner of The Celtic Harp, a well-known Irish restaurant and pub, Tom Powers has played an instrumental role in fostering a space for the community to celebrate the Irish culture; his leadership extends to his role as President of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, and he received the 2023 Claddagh Award for his active support of the Irish culture and traditions; and WHEREAS, Tom Powers has always been more than just a business owner; he is a true champion of Irish heritage in Utica and, very importantly, a friend to all, as expressed by the members of the Parade Committee; he has dedicated his life to supporting the Irish culture through his iconic food, community leadership, and fundraisers for charity hosted at The Celtic Harp; and WHEREAS, It is only fitting that Utica residents honor the remarkable contributions of Tom Powers by naming him Grand Marshal of this year's parade; his involvement in the community and unwavering support for Irish traditions make him the ideal choice; he will lead the 2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade, a daylong event of celebration and pride for all members of the Mohawk Valley community; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individuals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr., upon the occasion of his designation as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Thomas Douglas Powers, Jr.