K 773: Commending Frank Elias upon the occasion of his designation as the 2025 Businessperson of the Year by the Great Utica Chamber of Commerce

 Assembly Resolution No. 773 BY: M. of A. Buttenschon COMMENDING Frank Elias upon the occasion of his designation as the 2025 Businessperson of the Year by the Great Utica Chamber of Commerce WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and commend those individuals whose entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and service to their community contribute to the economic vitality and growth of the Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate Frank Elias upon the occasion of his designation as the 2025 Businessperson of the Year by the Great Utica Chamber of Commerce, in recognition of his significant contributions to the Mohawk Valley region; and WHEREAS, Frank Elias has served the best interests of the community through his entrepreneurship, innovation, risk-taking, and unwavering belief in the potential of Utica, New York; and WHEREAS, Through his visionary leadership since founding Utica Coffee Roasting Company in 2005, Frank Elias has propelled the company to remarkable success while igniting a renewed sense of local pride and economic revival throughout the region; and WHEREAS, Utica Coffee Roasting Company has become a regional staple, renowned for its commitment to quality, bold branding, and community spirit, with a growing presence through multiple locations, partnerships, and online sales; and WHEREAS, Frank Elias has continually uplifted and empowered others by forging meaningful partnerships with local artists, small businesses, and nonprofits, developing workforce training programs, providing job opportunities for young professionals, and supporting numerous community events; and WHEREAS, Committing himself to regional development, Frank Elias has served as a mentor and catalyst for positive change, inspiring progress and resilience throughout the Mohawk Valley by investing in the community, creating jobs, supporting local business ecosystems, and cultivating a shared sense of pride and identity; and WHEREAS, Recognizing entrepreneurs like Frank Elias, who invest in their communities and demonstrate leadership, affirms the power of local entrepreneurship in driving long-term transformation and economic success; and WHEREAS, Honoring Frank Elias as the 2025 Businessperson of the Year by the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce is a testament to his unwavering dedication, entrepreneurial vision, and indispensable role in the vitality of the Utica community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to congratulate Frank Elias upon the occasion of his designation as the 2025 Businessperson of the Year by the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce, and to commend him for his exemplary contributions to the Mohawk Valley region; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Frank Elias.